End of Year Issue 2007 SUMMER���������������������������������������������������� BALL 2007 ��������������� In This Issue... ˜ The Bludgeoner ˜ News ����������������������������������������������������� Tales From The ˜ Queer Side ������������������������������������������ ��������������� ����������������������������������� ˜ Sport �������������������� ����������������������������������������� ˜ From Bangor To ��������������� ������������������� Bangor ˜ The BIG Interview ������������� with the Vice ������������ Chancellor ������������������������������������� �������������������� ������������������������������������ ˜ The Great Orme ������������������������ ����������������� �������������������������������� ˜ Travel ������������������������������������������� ����������������� ˜ The Adventures of ��������������������������������������������������������� Stuart Dent ˜ Music ��������������������������������������� ����������������������������� ���������������������������������� ������������������������� ˜ One Minute Welsh ������������������������������� � �������������������� Film ����������������������������������������� ˜ angor certainly loves its celebrities, Java Restaurant. On top of this there will be the night. Headlining this year, are the Male Voice Choir and Bangor University ˜ Adventures From especially if they have appeared in casino tables, circus entertainers and most Ordinary Boys. Trademarked by hits such as Jazz Orchestra. In the marquee, sax and Across The Pond BBig Brother. Over the past year we impressively of all, fun fair rides. The halls ‘Maybe Someday’ and ‘Week In, Week Out’ percussion band Bandabacana are to have accepted Glyn Wise will be one of our will of course be equipped with striking and ‘Boys Will be Boys’, the Ordinary Boys perform, featuring Nigerian born vocalist fellow students, we have witnessed guest decorations, state of the art visual screens boast an archive of many dance-worthy Loulou Edwards. Locals The Screaming Storm Forecast appearances from Lea Walker, and now, our and an eagerly awaiting stage, ready for the songs. Their much praised album Over The Citizens will also perform, as well as the ˜ very own Summer Ball is been headlined by night’s acts. For those who attended previous Counter Culture has been dubbed one of the uncannily named Alien Jazz Band. The Half the infamous Ordinary Boys and front man Balls, there will be distinct differences. best albums Britain has produced in recent Cut Club are to provide the finest grooves Sport Preston. There will be no need to purchase drinks years, and certainly contains an impressive of the night, featuring Sonny Woods, Neil ˜ Any students who have attended vouchers this year; the three bars that will collection of indie classics. Jankes and friends. a Summer Ball here at Bangor in the be in operation throughout the night will be American band Wheatus are also making Tickets for the ball are now on sale, and Features past will certainly reminisce about the cash bars, simplifying getting a drink. There a call at Bangor on their UK tour. Their are priced at £45 per ticket. Events continue ˜ spectacular transformation to PJ Hall has been a new ‘chill-out room’ created, name often conjuring up pop-punk hits through the night until around five o’clock, and the surrounding area. This year, we which is essentially a room within a room such as the ‘Loser’ soundtrack ‘Teenage where breakfast at Mike’s Bites is the most are set for more extravagant decorations, with mellow lighting and additional seating. Dirtbag’, and their popular cover of ‘Little common stop for many ball goers. lavish gaming, and childish festival rides, The event will last all night and this room Respect’. The Ukuele Band of Great Britain, plus many additional bonuses. Anyone will surely make the difference when it gets described as ‘immortal before their time,’ lucky enough to purchase a ticket for this to the early hours of the morning. are also to feature, as well as tribute band Jack Peat year’s event can expect to be greeted with If all this is not enough, the Students’ Green Dayz who will keep the audience champagne and strawberries, chocolate Union have also invited some impressive bouncing throughout the early hours of fountains, and a luxuriant feast provided by acts to entertain the masses throughout the morning. Other acts include The Welsh WIN SUMMER

��������� �������������� ����������������������������������������������������������������������BALL TICKETS WIN������������ WIN������������������������ WIN WIN WIN���������������������������������������������������������������������� WIN WIN WIN WIN 2 Seren - End of Year Issue 2007

CONTRIBUTORS Dear Reader, Editor: Emma Dodd Lexi Hindley Welcome to the End of Year edition of SEREN – our last issue for the year and my last issue in charge. I would like to thank everybody who Claire Stapleton has contributed to and read SEREN this year – it’s Bangor’s student Rebecca E Hussey population who make SEREN what it is. I have loved my year as editor James Kerr – I have laughed and I have cried over this paper and I wouldn’t change my experience for the world. Special thanks go out to Dan ‘the technical Chris Thomson man’; John and Chris for being there when it’s been hard and Lexi for Siobhan Holt preparing me for what was to come. Also a big thank you to Carolan for Jennifer Stanley her support. Jess Hughes SEREN has come a long way this year and I hope that it continues to Spencer George grow into the future. Next year’s editor will be Jack Peat, our current Kerrie Gardner Sports Editor and I hope that you will all be as good to him as you have been to me. Please continue to send your contributions to editor@seren. Sophie de l’Orme bangor.ac.uk. I look forward to reading your articles next year and look Dr Rashesh Mehta forward to seeing in what direction Jack decides to take the paper. Lucy Digney I hope you enjoy this issue, with articles ranging from the Summer Ball, Amy Garrett to how to cope with your exam stress. All that remains for me to say, is Loran Perkins good luck with your exams and have a great summer. John Jackson Emma. Jack Peat Carolan Goggin PS. Well done to those of you who worked out that the article about the president and I being engaged was in fact the Sam Burnett April Fools’ joke and thanks to those of you who sent their congratualtions! I’m still living that one down. Ross Butler Printed through www.quotemeprint.com 0845 1300 667 Ian Davies Thomas Hecht Gemma Plowman Noellin Imoh Mark Hawkins Becky Fountain Paul Seymour Dave Moreton Felicity Snow Valentina D’Ericco Luke Wilsher Claire Mann Alex Farley Jon Anderson Joe Chapman Gary Brown Shiran Devakumar Pete Banks Alex Trebul Mark Varley Robert Mann HAVE YOU GOT A HEALTH PROBLEM? Edward Rogers NO TIME TO GO TO THE DOCTOR? Mike E Shepperd LET THE GP COME TO YOU! Emma Dixon THE BBC ARE FILMING A NEW SERIES OF BBC ONE’S HEALTH SERIES, Adam Pearce STREET DOCTOR IN BANGOR AND NORTH WALES Will Varley ON THE FOLLOWING DATES Andrew Redfearn TUESDAY 15TH MAY - SUNDAY 20TH MAY Rob Samuel INTERESTED? CALL US 07802 470 442 OR EMAIL [email protected] Seren - End of Year Issue 2007 3 BOTANICAL BEATS 2007 he sun was shining and the folks fine festival tunes, presented courtesy of of Bangor were all out catching Gwilym Morus and Band, Martin Daws and Tsome rays on Saturday 21st April at Band, the coolly named Amphibian Monks, Botanical Beats. There couldn’t have been a Bangor Community Choir, DJ Hippyad and WIN SUMMER more beautiful day to attend the fundraising Signor Tim. There was also the opportunity event at Treborth Botanical Gardens, to have a go at circus activities (not just for hosted by the University’s own Student kids! I’m a dab-hand on stilts now!) and, the BALL TICKETS Treborth Action Group in order to raise personal pinnacle of my day was discovering much-needed money for the gardens, the the refreshments room, selling a selection of funding of which has been under debate for delicious and wholesome homemade vegan Got the dress? the last few months. This day was certainly and non-vegan cakes with tea or coffee for a huge success in both the monetary a mere pound. Now that’s value. Overall, a Got the shoes? and entertainment value, raising a huge superb day! The only question is, when’s the £2022.53 despite tickets only costing £5 for next one...? Got the bag? the whole day, and leaving Bangor residents smiling and sun-kissed. Not got a ticket? The day was accompanied by some Rebecca E. Hussey WIN THE ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS BALL TICKET ay 3rd saw the regional and Former Station Manager, Spencer George constituency elections take place commented, “It was a fantastic evening. For Go to Macross Wales. Voters turned out Storm FM to be able to provide a fantastic www.seren.bangor.ac.uk in their thousands to have their say and service such as an outside broadcast shows Storm FM sent an outside broadcast team to just how far they have come in the past for your chance to win a Canarthen Leisure Centre to be first with the twelve months. The whole night was a Summer Ball ticket results as they were announced. tremendous success and I look forward with With an outside broadcast unit at great enthusiasm to Storm’s next outside their side, Pete Banks, Ashley Fishman broadcast.” For more local, national and and Spencer George spent the evening international news, make sure to tune into interviewing the main five candidates The Forum, every Monday from 8pm until standing in the AM elections and providing 9pm only on Storm 87.7FM. ���������������������������������������������������� pre- and post-result analysis. The night was a huge success with Lib Dem candidate Mel Ab Owain commenting that Storm’s was the Spencer George ��������������� best interview he had taken part in during the past five years of his political career. hose of you who occasionally raise The second vote is for a regional closed seats and Plaid Cymru and Lib Dems gained have primary legislative powers, it does Wales for five years after finishing university your heads above the University’s party list of candidates. In other words, you one each. �����������������have secondary legislative powers�������������������� in���������������� areas and the Lib Dems planning to abolish ramparts to take a peek at what the vote for a particular party but not which However, Labour is still the largest party including education. In other words, it tuition fees altogether. T ������������������������������������������ rest of the world is doing may have noticed candidate within that party; the order in in the Welsh Assembly, but with 26 out of 60 cannot create new acts, but can � amend�������������� Voter turnout in our area was quite high that the elections for the Welsh Assembly which candidates get elected will have seats they lack that crucial overall majority existing ones. So while top-up fees����������������������������������� exist this year, at 49.1%. But the total number Government were held on 3 May. been determined by the party before the required for a stable government. As we in both England and Wales, for example,�������������������� of votes was just short of 20,000, and the Wales has a somewhat complex ‘mixed elections. go to press, a coalition government������� looks they have not yet come into effect���������������������������������� in Wales student population here in Bangor is almost member’ electoral system giving each voter So what happened in our constituency? likely, but the shape that will take is still and the Assembly has increased grants������������������� for 10,000, giving us the potential to have a two separate votes. Well, Bangor alumni Alun Ffred Jones unclear. Possible options are a��������������� Labour-Plaid Welsh-domiciled students. significant impact on election results in The first is for a local candidate elected was (unsurprisingly) re-elected. What Cymru coalition (giving a total of 41 seats), Labour is the main proponent of top-up our constituency. If we want to see serious by the ‘first past the post’ system. In Arfon, was surprising was the margin by which a Labour-Lib Dem coalition (a total of 32 fees in the Assembly, but this may be �������������an issue representation on educational issues by our ��������������������������������������������������������������������������� our constituency, the local candidates were he defeated his closest opponent, Martin seats) or a ‘rainbow coalition’������������������������������������� of, say, Plaid they are forced to concede ground on������� if they local AM,������������� we need to use this strength in our Martin Eaglestone (Labour), Alun Ffred Eaglestone: Alun Ffred gained 10,260 votes Cymru, Welsh Conservatives and��������������������������������� Lib Dems enter coalition. Plaid Cymru, Lib��� Dems numbers and go vote. Jones (Plaid Cymru), Mel ab Owain (Lib to Martin’s 5,242, a swing of 3.5% from (a total of 33 seats). ������������������������and Conservatives all oppose top-up����������������� fees, Dems), Gerry Frobisher (Conservative) and Labour to Plaid Cymru. And in the north- So what does this mean for students? with Plaid wanting to pay the student�������������������������������� loan Carolan Goggin Elwyn Williams (UKIP). west region, Welsh Conservatives gained two Although the Welsh Assembly does not repayments of graduates who remain in �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� IS CHRIS SET FOR ��������������������������������������������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������� ����������������������������� ���������������������������������� ��� COMIC SUCCESS? ���������������������������������������������������������� n Monday 26th of February Bangor University student Chris Stokes ������������������������������� ��������������������� �������������������������� competed in the Revel Student Comedy Awards. He didn’t have support ����������������������������������������������������������� Ofrom a University society and very few students are even aware that he competed on Bangor’s behalf. But budding comedian Chris needs your support. The Revel Comedy Awards heat took place at Birmingham University, and Chris narrowly missed out on a place in the final, which will take place at this year’s Edinburgh Festival. But all is not lost: if Chris wins the people’s vote which is currently taking place on the internet, then he will be invited to compete in the � final. ��� ��� ���������������� The winner of this year’s competition will be awarded a trip to Canada, where they will be able to enter a similar comedy competition, plus £2,500, while the runner up will receive a £500 cash prize. But Chris admits that “it isn’t about ������������������������������������������������������� the money, it’s about the contacts”. Competing in the heat has already led to him �� being booked to perform stand up gigs, and he hopes that by progressing in the ������������ ���������� � � � competition his reputation will be boosted further. Fourth year Chris, who credits comics Peter Cook, Milton Jones and Stewart Lee ��������������������������������� �������� ��������������� as his biggest influences, has been involved with comedy around the University. He has performed at both “Speak Easy” and The Amnesty Society open mic nights in Jocks bar, and has contributed to various SIN nights. Fellow student Jack Green says “I’d recommend that people see him while he’s cheap to see, because give it a few ��������� �������������� ���������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������ years and you’ll be paying £30+ for the privilege.” But if you don’t get the chance to ������������ ���������������������������������������������������������������������� see Chris live over the coming weeks, then you can catch him on Storm 87.7 FM, where he co-presents the show ‘Voxpop’ which is aired on Sundays between 2pm and 4pm. You can also look him up on www.myspace.com/boycottdeathtrap ��������������� ����������������� Bangor University is not exactly renowned for its comedic talent. Chris did attempt to set up a comedy society here in Bangor, but unfortunately it did not take off. But that doesn’t mean that we can’t help send Chris to the final. Visit ����� ������� ��������������������� www.chortle.co.uk, follow the links to the Revel Comedy Awards, watch Chris Stokes’ stand up act, and give him your vote. Voting ends at midnight on May 31st ����������������������������������������������� 2007. Come on Bangor! Show your support.

Claire Stapleton 4 Seren - End of Year Issue 2007 THE BLUDGEONER PLANS FOR A SUSTAINABLE STUDENTS’ UNION polar bear from terrible sunburn and most of East Anglia from becoming a diving ustainability is something of a ‘buzz- and sustainability awareness are all areas home), creating a completely sustainable resort. word’ at the moment, with everyone in which our SU can excel at and lead by environment is not an overnight fix. Every little helps, though, one supposes Sfrom politicians to farmers using the example. So what else is happening? We’re – although there is a certain note of irony in term. There’s a reason for this: it’s important An Environmental Policy is currently investigating car-sharing schemes, as well as using that particular slogan from a company and indeed necessary to be sustainable and being drafted and a final version detailing using bio-fuel for the SU’s fleet of vehicles. with the ethics of a minor royal at a fancy our Students’ Union is no exception to this. the SU’s aims and targets will be presented But the biggest idea of all is to integrate dress party. It’s heartening, for instance, There has been a stirring of excitement to SU Council for its approval in October. sustainable thinking into every action that to hear from UCAS that the brightest in the SU recently (more so than usual) with This will be reviewed bi-annually to keep happens within the SU and hopefully with students choose the greenest and most the forming of a new group – The Students’ targets relevant and to embrace new and you, the users of the building. There will environmentally friendly companies when Union Environment and Sustainability relevant research and technologies. be a website with useful advice on how to they graduate. The Bludgeoner has several Steering Group. The group is made up of So what will you notice about a calculate and reduce your carbon footprint, problems with this – how do they know? Do SU Executive Officers (the President, CSO, Sustainable Students’ Union? Well, the first which should be up and running in the new he Bludgeoner is feeling green at they ring them up? AU President and Education and Welfare idea, and the easiest to implement in our academic year. the moment – and that’s not simply “Hello, are you smart? Now tell me, do Officer), members of the society ‘Subject to current building are recycling bins. Actually, Want to be involved? Get in touch with because of the pleasant day he spent you have plastic cups by the water machine Change’ and other interested parties. Non- more than that – we want you to be able to Sam Burnett, the Students’ Union President T at your place? No? Thank goodness! That in a small yacht off Llandudno fishing for student involvement comes in the form of recycle as much as you can, so we’re going at [email protected] for compliments the other week. It has become would’ve buggered up our contrived press outside ‘experts’ from Gwynedd Council make the SU a ‘drop-off-point’ for all of more information. most fashionable to be a greeny these days, release designed to get us into the papers and other organisations. your recyclables. We also hope that small sticking bottles in your blue box and using around application time!” The first task for the group was to look changes like setting printer defaults to both sides of the loo roll. The Bludge is The statement in itself implies that there’s at the broad spectrum of sustainability double-sided and draft printing will help James Kerr reminded of that classic story from World some discernment in choosing where you issues that our Students’ Union faces. cut down of the use of paper and ink. While War 2 (although it doesn’t quite rank on a end up after graduation. The Bludgeoner Waste, transport, utility consumption, these are little steps (that you can also do at par with the Battle of El-Alamein, it is worth was always under the impression that a titter) where housewives were encouraged finding a graduate job was always something to spend a second away from blubbing over akin to playing 23 bingo slips at once and their probably dead husbands to rip up hoping one of the little buggers will come the railings and ship their pots off to the good. RHYS FOR THE STARS government for smelting down and using It’s all very well being all environmental, for tanks. but where does it get us? It’s no good his July, the University will not and Nature expert is receiving an Honorary What happened in reality is that there recycling carrier bags because you’re still only be awarding students with Fellowship for his services to the study of are now a load of rusty old fences hanging using them, perhaps it would be better Ttheir hard-earned degrees, but wildlife. Owain Arwel Hughes OBE will around the bottom of the North Sea and not to buy a newspaper at all rather than a also famous men and women who have also be receiving a Fellowship. He is the no-one in the country had anything to cook big belching lorry sweeping the streets for contributed to raising the profile of Wales. Principle Associate Conductor of the Royal with. In a perverse way many historians discarded rags. One such person is Hollywood superstar Philharmonic Orchestra, and the founder of probably credit this with winning the war Still, readers – all the best for the and BAFTA award winner Rhys Ifans. The the Welsh Proms. He is being honoured for for the plucky Brits, ever-strong in adversity. holidays, enjoy your trips abroad, the long actor, who has made such films as Notting his services to music. Mainly because it’s sixty years on and they’re journey home, etc, etc. Don’t forget to Hill, Not Only but Always and Vanity Fair All that remains to be asked is, will Rhys struggling for things to talk about. recycle Seren once you’re finished with it and who was also the original lead singer be wearing grey to the ceremony, because The relevance of this is such; the – or you can keep it on hand as emergency of the Super Furry Animals, will be awarded women just love grey! Bludgeoner wonders whether bundling up toilet paper… with an Honorary Fellowship. This is the the Sunday Telegraph for the local Council The Bludgeoner lives in a nuclear power highest honour the University can bestow. every two weeks is really going to save the station with three cows in Norfolk. This award honours his contribution to Siobhan Holt and Welsh film and television. Chris Thomson GOLA NOT GUCCI Also Iolo Williams, the BBC presenter his will be my last Summer Ball, as it will be for a lot of other final-year Tstudents. Well, my last one at Bangor: maybe I’ll go to another ball, summer or otherwise at another point in my cocktail- party-congested, jamboree-jam-packed, shindig-stuffed life. Therefore, footwear is an important consideration. The premise is simple: don’t wear small, stupid, pointy, high shoes. Why? Because they hurt. Reason enough. OK, so they look nice…but you won’t be the one still on your feet at 5am. Taking them off is cheating (your shoes, not your feet, as that would be just weird…cool, but weird). Anyway, to cut a long rant short, I propose wearing trainers (or maybe, if it’s too horrifying a prospect for you, I can just about advocate those sparkly little pump type things) Why? Because they don’t hurt (unless you choose them really badly). Looking cool is all well and good, but where’s the style in being a bleeding (literally, obviously), crying, whinging mess at the end (or maybe closer to the beginning if you pick some truly killer heels) of Bangor’s biggest bash? And, unless you have an occasional smug side which barely gets to see the light of day, no one has to know about your furtive footwear. My smug side is sure to want an airing on June 2nd – I’ll be the one in the blue dress, purple trainers, with no blisters. Cue smug smile from me, and look of intense pity from the fashion columnist. Plimsoll Princess, Lexi Hindley

e all know the classic game of Monopoly, but there are actually hundreds of editions of the board game out there. Everything from Star Wars to the Simpsons is represented, but Parker games are about to create a new Wedition, which they are calling ‘Here and Now’ Monopoly. The difference is that this time they are asking for our input. You can go online and vote for which places in the UK should be represented and the top twenty-two cities will feature on the new Monopoly board. Bangor is currently at position forty-three with 3244 votes. So if you fancy Bangor as the next Old Kent Road or even Mayfair, make sure you get on and vote. You can vote once a day at www.monopoly.co.uk/vote until 25th May 2007 when voting closes. The game will then go into production and onto the market in October.

Caroline Alvarez Seren - End of Year Issue 2007 5 TALES FROM THE QUEER The Rant SIDE n the day I was leaving to come They think it’s all over... back to Bangor after Easter my Ograndparents passed me an s I sit watching the television, Italy whose top league is made up of less continued under the Labour government men and women rests on the shoulders of article they’d read and picked out of the waiting for the inevitable middle than 20% foreign players and this may who in the last five years have given the today’s young people. If they aren’t given the Guardian. It described the differences in order collapse of England’s batsmen explain why Italy won the 2006 World go-ahead to build on over a thousand opportunity to learn and enjoy what sport law and society’s tolerance towards LGBT A against Bangladesh, I wonder why it is Cup, whilst England bowed out with a small playing fields. How can children be has to offer, then we can go on expecting relationships and so-called lifestyle across that Britain is so abysmally bad at sports whimper. Personally I don’t agree with this expected to take part in sports if they have to celebrate nothing but mediocrity and the entire globe. Although it’s something compared to the rest of the world. argument. I believe we can only learn from nowhere to play them? unfulfilled potential for decades to come. I had already researched and thought I Our national football teams are so full the talent that foreign players have to offer On top of this, the Labour government In 1997 Tony Blair said “We have under- knew quite a lot about, to see it presented of promise, yet deliver nothing. Our rugby and we should develop our own players has severely undermined grass-roots sports invested in sport for far too long.” If that in such a no frills way and for it to grab the teams offer fleeting moments of brilliance, accordingly. by failing to deliver on its 1997 promise of was his assessment then, I’d love to hear his attention of two people of a completely only to undo all their good work by losing Then there is the argument that we assessment of the current situation. Previous different generation was something that to a country with part-time players. Our the public and the media put too much ...but with the ludicrous governments may have under-invested made me realise just how much more needs cricket teams only win when the opposition pressure on our sporting idols to go out amounts of money they earn in sport, but this Labour government has to be done outside of the UK for liberation have a bad day and as for tennis, the poor and win a trophy or two. Yes, the media are through salaries, bonuses and ripped out its heart and soul and it’s high and protection of LGBT people all over the saps sat on Henman Hill are fooling quick to pick up on the smallest mistake a time they recognise this fact and start fixing world. themselves if they think Tim will ever win a team makes and yes, the public does heap product endorsements, the least the damage they have caused. Some countries are literally living in the major tournament again before he retires. pressure onto its superstars, but with the past, with Russia’s Nikolay Koryanovich we can expect from them is to So where did it all go wrong? Why ludicrous amounts of money they earn win once in a while. proposing to recriminalise homosexuality, can’t the four nations of Britain produce through salaries, bonuses and product Spencer George imposing punishment of at least five years teams that can go out, compete with what endorsements, the least we can expect from imprisonment, which is almost exactly the world has to offer and, on occasions, them is to win once in a while. However, investing £750 million into projects around P.S. I hear that an environmentally the same as Stalin’s criminal code written with the celebrity status that many sports the country. To date, only £8.1 million have friendly concert has been organised to help in 1933. Russia only decriminalised I wonder why it is that stars live with, pressure from the media and been invested, a far cry from the original promote the dangers of climate change. The homosexuality four years previous to these Britain is so abysmally bad at the public is commonplace so should not figure pledged. As if this wasn’t enough, event is going to be called ‘Live Earth’ and proposals, with Putin blaming decreasing affect them. So in my opinion, it’s certainly the government also promised to promote acts such as Madonna, The Red Hot Chilli birth rates on the law change. sports compared to the rest of not the media and British public’s fault that sport in impoverished areas by introducing Peppers and Genesis are set to perform. The Nigerian authorities made similar the world. we can’t win anything. ‘Action Zones’. The government gave an concert is going to be as carbon neutral as proposals to those made in Russia. Clubs, So if the influx of foreign players, the assurance that it would set up thirty Action possible with electricity being provided by societies and organisations offering similar actually win something? media and the British public aren’t to Zones across the UK The current number solar panels and transportation provided services to that of UWB Pride and other There is of course the argument that blame, who must take responsibility for our set up stands at twelve. And that number in the form of hybrid cars. Now it’s all external groups are severely punished and the influx of foreign players into Britain’s sporting failures? The answer, my friends, looks set to remain the same as any available very well and good using solar panels, individuals can face the death penalty in domestic leagues has hindered the is the British Government. It started off finance that could have gone into promoting and hybrid cars, but what are the events certain states that are run underneath Sharia development of young British players. For under the Conservative government of grass roots sport, has been raided to help organisers going to do to combat the hot air law. One family, so scared of being punished example, over 60% of the players in the the 1990s who started selling off playing fund the 2012 British Olympic Games. escaping from Al Gore’s mouth?! for their son’s sexuality, reported their Premiership are foreign. Compare this to fields for housing developments. This trend The future success of Britain’s sports child to the authorities and requested the maximum penalty of death by stoning. He sought asylum in the UK and was deported back less than a month after. On the other side of Africa in Uganda a local tabloid released the names of forty-five gay and bisexual men outlining that homosexuality was “an abominable sin…that goes against the nature of humanity”. Neighbouring Zanzibar’s government out-right banned gay sex less than three years ago, giving gay men a twenty five years prison sentence for engaging in any sexual act with another man, but lesbians are given an incomparable seven years. They face a constant threat of gang rapes, beatings and murders in South Africa, whose constitution is surprisingly seen as one of the most inclusive and progressive of all less economically developed countries. In Iran more than 4,000 men, women and children as young as nine have been killed under draconian laws since 1979 with the articles 108 right through to 140 in the penal code referring in detail to the punishments acceptable for homosexual acts. Iraq prefers to call these murders “honour killings”. Although sometimes it most definitely does not feel like it, here in the UK we have an amazing number of support networks, protective laws and specialist amenities, which should be used more often and whose combined voice speak for a national community against global homophobia. Has this shocked you as much as it has me? Get involved in campaigning and contact UWB Pride and/or Amnesty International who are continually campaigning against breaches of human rights.

Jess Hughes 6 Seren - End of Year Issue 2007 COSMIC KERRIE Taurus (April 21st – May Aries (March 21st – April Sagittarius (November 23rd 21st) 22nd) – December 21st) our family are very important eople you thought you could trust close one needs more emotional support, to you Taurus, but that doesn’t are likely to let you down this but you’re growing tired of giving it. Ymean they should dictate your Pweek. So, if you want a job done, ACome on Sagittarius, just a few days more life. They’ve done that before, and look you best do it yourself. As you enter May, and they’ll be standing on their own two feet, what you lost, so stand your ground. you start to get a clearer picture of who and the two of you can frolic once more. New Take a chance on Friday the 11th May is a help and who is a hindrance. Keep an opportunities for the both of you will come if you and you’ll be celebrating. Travel could eye out for the number five, and lose the can just give that final push! also be important to you this May. impediment that holds you down.

Virgo (August 24th Gemini (May 22nd – June Cancer (June 22nd – July 23rd) – September 23rd) 21st) ork and social links come together ou seem short of energy early he past is on your eager mind more at the beginning of May, and the in the month. You’ve had a lot than usual. It seems you can’t move chance to move up in status and Yon your mind though, and until W you take time out to think about what forward until you’ve solved an issue meet faces that previously you’ve only dreamt T all your recent dramas have meant to from a time gone by. You’d be best to move of will arise. An ex may start causing problems on, but if that doesn’t feel right then stick for you, but if you bite you’ll only encourage you, you won’t be able to proceed with with what you sense and not with what them further. Tell them straight, and stick to confidence. In truth, you’ve already others tell you. Be your own person, go your what you’ve got. made your mind up; you just have to own way. tell those concerned.

Aquarius (January 21st Leo (July 24th – August Libra (September 24th – October – February 19th) 23rd) 23rd) esist the urge to work on your own and corpios prove lucky and make ou’ve upset a close one, but seem unsure as to how gain speed and control by working as the first week of May more to make it up with them. Time is the answer. It Rpart of a team. You’ll soon realise the Sinteresting. Travel problems Ywould seem that this time you went a bit too far benefits when you see how far in the lead this turn out to be a blessing in disguise as with your words and both of you need some time to heal. can put you, especially mid-May. Remember to they offer a chance to try something The first Thursday of the month is ripe for reconciliations. balance your work with play. In love, Scorpios new. Apologies you owe from a And remember, actions speak louder than words. may seem like they’re playing games, but their weekend night out must be made only looking after your best interests. sooner rather than later. Swallow your pride Leo. Pisces (February 20th Capricorn (December 22nd Scorpio (October 24th – March 20th) – January 20th) riends are using you and you’re allowing ove and romance get much more – November 22nd) eeling lazy recently Scorpio? them to do so. But the good news is that interesting..! And it’s not just It’s OK to rest a bit, but not Fnow you have all the know-how about the face you’ll be showing to the who is at the root of all your troubles. A polite L if your reputation is on the outside world, but the things that’ll be F line. There are things to be done, word never went amiss. A change in direction going on behind closed doors. You’ve and your friends can’t work out may come towards the end of the month. changed, and a new you has emerged why you’re not behaving how you Make sure you’ve thought it through, don’t go which is sure to make for a happier future. usually do. A Gemini can help you leaping before you look, research and study! Just what you deserve after being a rock gain back control, if you’re willing for so many souls. to open up. STUDENT VOLUNTEERING ENDS THE YEAR WITH A BANG ell the year is nearly over, and with all projects helping to improve the out), well yet again SVB has put on another On a separate note, I would also like whilst you are packing up your belongings what a long year it has been! quality of life for individuals from all age great spectacle on 8th of May, simply entitled to thank on behalf of SVB all of this ready to go home and reflecting on the year WAlthough some of us may be groups and walks of life. Without those “Grease Night”. For one night only the 50s year’s volunteers for their hard work and gone by, spare a moment to think about leaving and venturing out into the world to dedicated volunteers who offer their time were alive and kicking again as a vast array dedication, and special thanks goes to those who have no home to go to, and get a ‘real’ job (or at least trying to) others freely and unconditionally this wouldn’t of T-birds and pink ladies appeared at the Andrew Wilson, Jenna Hughes and Xanthe donate some of your stuff. may be looking forward to the summer have been possible. The annual review doors of Academi. The dance club opened Larcombe: we couldn’t have done any of it So although the year is coming to an break and then back they come for more full provided a great opportunity to award the event with their amazing, synchronized without you. end it is not over for SVB, in fact it has just on fun and excitement in Bangor. But either those who have contributed so much to this choreography to the hand jive whilst the The last project held by SVB this year will begun. I leave Bangor with the belief that way this academic year is coming to a close, community, and congratulations to all those (mostly) in-tune wailing from those brave be the BIG GIVE in which we will be placing from here we can only get better, onwards which gives me an ideal opportunity to (or drunk) big boxes in halls and asking you to donate and upwards so to speak and you, yes that’s review the success of the year behind us. Yet enough to get any unwanted items of clothing, general YOU, can make the difference next year. So again Student Volunteering Bangor (SVB) up for karaoke cool stuff from your rooms and unopened don’t put it off any longer, join SVB and has gone from strength to strength this year, could be food still within its sell by date (these boxes never look back. becoming bigger, better and all round more heard during are not just a good opportunity to dump brilliant than it was the year before. The the night. your rubbish and dirty dishes). On 4th June achievements of the volunteers and SVB as a N u m e r o u s we will then take it all and donate it to the Becky Fountain whole are endless, and in true SVB style they Dannies and local homeless shelter and charity shops. So do not go unrecognised. Sandies made On Thursday 3rd May we held our for quite a annual review to bask in the glory of our spectacle while accomplishments, but this was a review with the themed a twist. Not surprisingly, tickets were a sell- c o c k t a i l s out and off we all went in our glad rags out gave a good into the country to the Seiont Manor Hotel, punch. With in Llanrug. It was a great evening packed entertainment full of awards, amusing speeches, dancing, throughout, you plenty of laughing and the occasional tear couldn’t help be from those volunteers just too overwhelmed in the mood for by the whole thing. I don’t think anyone a jive! really knew what to expect from Andy’s Overall the (SVB Manager) presentation but what we who received an award. SIN night was another great success and got was an enjoyable and at most times SVB is about more than the fantastic raised over £300 for the local homeless slightly embarrassing review of the year projects we run, it’s also a chance to enjoy shelter, so here’s looking forward to the next gone. All the volunteering projects that have great socials and raise money for charities at one. A big thanks to those who organised run this year, with no exceptions, have gone the same time. Some of you may remember and contributed to the event and for all down a storm not only within the University, our brilliant Moulin Rouge SIN night from those who attended we hope you had a but also throughout the local community back in January (if not you really missed great time. Seren - End of Year Issue 2007 7 Health Sophie talks health, beauty and THE GREAT ORME fashion tips

ashion may be the last thing on your shave your legs, or be brave and get them make your legs look inches longer and can vibrant colours to give you a striking look; mind at the moment, what with work waxed. The benefits last longer, but apart make an outfit. char kohl (for trash), neon if you dare, new Fand exams, but with such wonderful from that it’s pretty painful. If you dare, try Nu-Rave is in. This means neon, acid metal (metallic and gold eyes), try pop- weather, summer clothes are in. The weather a bit of fake tan, though an easier option are and bright colours - eighties smiley culture art hot-pink kohl, and finally why not try is so gorgeous that it makes it even harder to the ranges of tanning moisturisers. Let’s see is back, be it a t-shirt, bag or earrings. At electric blue. do any work. Lying in the sun with a glass of those pins ladies, give the Bangor men an the moment Topshop have a great jewellery That should be enough to keep you Pimms would be ideal. eyeful. section, go for a browse, the prices are a going ladies, enjoy the sunshine, bring on Big this summer is the colour blue and Oversized bags are still in, which is my bargain too. Accessories of the moment the summer. Also a sad farewell to all third it always sets off a tan nicely. You can wear favourite trend of the moment, but don’t include massive sunnies, the kind that years, good luck with your futures, Bangor a bright t-shirt or accessorize it up. The load them up too much, or there is serious swamp your face. Pretty headscarves are in, will miss you x x choice is yours. The miniskirt is back, but dentege on your shoulder. Along with the they are cute and keep you cool, wear as a stunning as they may be, they require a lot old minis, team with some chunky shoes: headband or wrap it around a bun. Sophie de l’Orme of maintenance. Take the easy option and platforms, wedges or stack heels. They will Statement eyeliner is back, try some

DOCn my opinion there are ten great foodsSPOT weight and/or retain good health. with lots of seeds and heavy grains you can are a great source of those healthy, for losing weight. There is a common § Yams and sweet potato: Great diet actually see, because less-milled ingredients monounsaturated fats. Use almond or Idelusion that to lose weight you have foods because they are low on the so- contain much more fibre. cashew butter as a much healthier option to barely eat, and the calories you do eat called glycemic index. The glycemic index § Cereal: Low sugar cereals packed with instead of peanut butter. should be no more than what is required measures the values of various foods based protein and fibre are good and can make you § Hummus: it is great if used instead of by a mouse. But research has shown that on how quickly they break down and are feel fresh with cold milk. butter and in wheat pitta bread or organic finding good quality food is more important absorbed into the bloodstream. The slower § Salad: If you eat a salad, make it corn chips. than quantity when it comes to weight loss. the digestion, the lower the score, the better valuable. Get field greens and add a yoghurt § Salsa: this dip is great if made at home, Combined with adequate exercise, your the food is for regulating blood sugars, dressing. Plus you need plenty of vegetables doesn’t take much time to make and is a meals can be regular serving sizes. The food insulin, and over all metabolism- all of and some good lean protein, like grilled healthy option for snacking. just needs to be, well, wholesome. Don’t which affect fat deposition. salmon. Don’t forget to exercise! At least 15-20 skip meals. When you want to lose weight § Oranges, apples and grapefruit: These § Yoghurt: and other dairy goods that minutes of physical activity a day will ensure it may be tempting to starve yourself – but particular fruits contain high levels of are great-tasting, low fat products. your health and help you lose weight (and eating small amounts of food frequently soluble fibre pectin. Fibre slows digestion, § Almonds: nuts are loaded with not to mention, firm up those muscles). can help you maintain a healthy, balanced helps eliminate toxins stores in body fat, and monounsaturated fats – the good fats that Weight-bearing exercises are especially great calorie intake throughout the day. Also, your gives you a feeling of fullness. are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, known to ways to burn those pesky calories blood sugar level will be adversely affected if § Killer sandwiches: To lose 40 pounds lower cholesterol. Fats are as necessary to a you don’t eat often. You can even divide the in 21 weeks, gorge on plenty of hearty healthy diet as protein and carbohydrates. standard allotment of three meals into five sandwiches stacked with vegetables, such Small amounts of nuts are a good starting Dr. Rashesh Mehta suggestions or queries or six smaller meals. There are some essential as tomato, cucumber, sprouts lettuce and point. For more details, mail: health4u_ healthy foods for anyone who wants to lose onion. For bread choice, anything brown § Nut butter: likewise, nut butters [email protected] WALES’ SMOKING BAN BELIEVE IN nd n 2 April, Wales saw the Ointroduction of its smoking ban. I’m sure most of us weren’t around YOURSELF at that point – a lot of us Your guide to exam stress and were probably in England where we were all still free how to deal with it to smoke in public places. After a night out at the xams are a difficult time for every pretending you don’t need a break, because pub we would still come student but Seren is here to help! Here you do. home and have to spray Eare our top tips on how to battle exam Eating and drinking sensibly is also our clothes to get rid of stress and advice for revising. essential. Avoid snacking and eating fatty the smell. The most important thing is not to panic. foods as this affects your attention and Whatever your stance Just as long as you allow yourself plenty of concentration span. However, once a day on the matter, the ban time to revise and avoid cramming then you treat yourself to a little chocolate as this has come into force in will feel more confident walking into that releases endorphins in the brain – the Wales and its mark has exam room. And don’t delude yourself into cause of happiness. It is also a myth that certainly been put on thinking that these exams are the be-all and drinking tea or coffee will increase your Bangor. The High Street end-all. Believe it or not, there is life beyond concentration. It may well keep you awake, and other areas with pubs exams! but the caffeine will have an adverse effect are littered with smokers Whilst revising, it is important to be on your attention span. standing outside, in organised and plan just how you are going Regular moderate exercise is a great way some cases providing an to go about acing that test. Write yourself up to stay focused and relieve some stress. If intimidating entry to the a revision plan, detailing how and when you you’re a member of a gym then great, but buildings in question. are going to tackle each section of the work. don’t worry if you’re not, just go for a light What of the pubs and Remember to stick to the revision plan; it’s jog or a kick around in the park. You’ll feel clubs of Bangor though? Arriving back the week no good making it if you’re going to spend better afterwards and it will help you settle under. Much to the displeasure of pub increase in the number of older people after the ban came in and going to watch the your time down the pub. Also, think about back into your routine. owners and smokers alike, the plans were spending their nights out in bars and pubs football in the Yellow Pub, I was pleased to each topic separately, grouping all of your Exams are stressful times but by rejected for fears of drunkenness and noise since the ban has come in, making places say as a non-smoker, how much better I felt. revision together and getting worried about implementing just a few of these steps you on the streets of Bangor. Some of our chain a little less student vs. local. I myself am I’d never before realised how intrusive other how much you have will not motivate you will feel much happier in yourself and this pubs provide sand buckets for smokers, enjoying not having to wash or spray my peoples’ smoke was. Nights out in Academi at all. will be mirrored in your impending exam and some don’t, either way I hope that our clothes back to a clean smell after a night were never too smoky but the difference Take regular breaks. It is vitally important success. Good luck! streets don’t become a graveyard for used out. Nights out in Bangor have certainly now is still noticeable. that you don’t get too weighed down and cigarettes. become more pleasant since April 2nd. The efforts made by pubs to cater information overload doesn’t set in. Every All in all I think that people who don’t to smokers even with the ban in place couple of hours take a half hour break; Siobhan Holt and Chris like smoke are enjoying their nights out are interesting. I read in the Bangor and go watch an episode of Friends; make a more. At the moment, in the warm weather, Jen Stanley Thomson Anglesey Mail a few times about some pubs sandwich; go annoy your housemates whilst the smokers seem to be alright with standing applying for outdoor seating areas or even they’re revising; it doesn’t matter what you outside. Overall I think there has been an do, just make sure you don’t soldier on just a canopy for their customers to smoke 8 Seren - End of Year Issue 2007 not be taken for more than a month due to the risk of poisoning; they also taste horrid. Travel wash is handy for when you are not in civilization and you get fed up with smelling like a farm. Some people prefer to Travel have one set of clothes to travel in which will not be washed and have their other clothes for best once they’ve arrived and freshened [email protected] up. Be careful not to wash in a river that might have a village up stream, and don’t wash in stagnate water as it will make your clothes even more dirty. Laundry services can usually be found everywhere though. From Bangor to Adventures from Safety. Travellers’ cheques are essential if you need to carry large amounts of cash Bangor across the Pond Backpackers Guide to the World with you, but be careful as some places ell this is my last installment adly this is my last article from the charge commission to change them. Banks from the now gloriously sunny Good ‘Ole US of A (yeehaw!) as I are normally safe bets when changing WMaine. Last week the University Sam now starting my final month s much as I love the summer, I can national holidays and events; all of these money. Don’t take credit or debit cards, celebrated ‘Maine Day’. We were given the here at Oregon State. Spring fever has now start to suffer from cabin fever. give you a greater insight into the culture as if stolen they will be hard to cancel from day off lectures in the hope that students officially gripped the campus, which brings Living in a small town and working of the place you’re visiting. For instance, I abroad and you’ll be stranded without would turn out at 8am…..yes 8am, to do both rampant stupidity (drunken midnight A community service. Although surprisingly rugby with glowsticks anyone?) and the nearly everyday can start to take its toll on did some research before I went to India money. A money belt should be taken my natural inclination to wander, so each and found out the Taj Mahal is best at five with you, and in it you should carry all not too many students are up at 8am and excessive consumption of beer. summer I like to see where I can go and in the morning your lifeline valuables: passport, travellers’ eager to go on a Wednesday morning With long, hot weekends stretching rekindle my exploring desire. as soon as it when they have no classes; but do not before me, sightseeing is one of my top Personally I think backpacking is by far opens as there fear - a handy parade, comprising of a priorities. With the end in sight, I want to see the best way to travel if you want a flexible, are no people in marching band, and bizarrely, tractors and everything Oregon has to offer. So, a brave affordable holiday. It allows you to immerse the back of your a fire engine, swooped round campus to group of British students and I decided to yourself in the culture of a country, you can photos. How wake everyone up! The University put on venture on a trip to Oregon’s premier theme go wherever you want, you don’t have to you pack your a free BBQ at midday, which was fantastic. park, the Enchanted Forest. be tied into holiday company days out or bag can make a It was accompanied by live bands and Unfortunately no one told the Enchanted hotel day trips. Backpacking is synonymous difference to the outdoor games: ‘ooozeball’, paintballing Forest that they were a theme park. ‘Shabfest’ with students; this is mainly because it is comfort of a trip. and tug of war over jelly. ‘Ooozeball’ is was the most effective description we could affordable and can be done with minimal Weight should basically mud volleyball, a foot deep pitch come up with. There were three main rides effort in planning or commitment once you be packed close is dug out and filled with mud- well I’m a on offer. One was the thrilling ‘Mountain are at your destination. It allows you to get to the bottom big kid at heart and I just couldn’t resist, it of Mordor’ which involves sitting in a slow to remote places that other tourists will not of the bag and was absolutely freezing but so much fun. moving kart, with a gun, shooting at blue see. The simple act of wandering from place up against your After our unsuccessful and extremely messy lights. The highlight was the tinfoil cave, to place with everything you need slung on back; anything game (when coated in mud it is an effort to which looked like someone had been left your back is a very liberating experience, that is bulky keep your shorts pulled up at a respectable alone with a large role a tin foil and staples but it can turn into a nightmare for the can then be level let alone hit the volleyball), a few of us and had made the best of a bad job. I thought unprepared and the naive. A few simple dos put around the jumped into the river next to the pitch to I had stepped into a bad Sci-Fi movie. and don’ts can make the difference between heavy items wash off…not one of the wisest ideas I’ve The log flume was surprisingly decent, a memorable trip and an unforgettable trip. and towards the ever had as it had only recently thawed from with a fair drop and some scream inducing cheques, large amounts of money, and winter but it cleaned us up a bit! parts. However, all four of us piled into one Don’t travel alone. There is a great top. Travelling light is what backpacking medical papers. Your money belt should go allure to travelling alone and meeting new is all about. Things such as toiletries need If anyone is planning on going abroad log, and almost sank it on the first drop. I under your trousers on your front, not worn next year and especially to Maine here are then spent the rest of the ride sitting in a people and going with the flow, but being not be taken from the UK either as nearly as a bum bag as I’ve seen people do before. on your own makes you an obvious target everything you would want can be bought some tips: Do not forget your thermals, good six inches of brown water, praying I It should never, ever be accessed in the view do not underestimate how cold it will get. didn’t get dysentery. for criminals. Plus you will rarely be able to in most countries, and generally for cheaper. of people, if you need to then you should leave your stuff and have the peace of mind Sharing things can also reduce your bulk. Bring as much chocolate and British snacks The winner though, for both the go into a shop changing room or toilet as you can carry…trust me you will never shoddy construction and potential death that it is safe. This should be taken more Shower gel, shaving cream, shampoo, sun somewhere. You should carry all the money seriously by females wishing to travel. A lone cream, etc can be shared between a few like Hershey Bars. Do not panic when you trap award, had to be the ‘Ice Mountain you will need for each day in your pockets in discover the delights of the Bat Bus….make Rollercoaster’. We were sat in something woman is a much more attractive target people to stop you carrying useless weight. small notes spread around your person. An than a lone man. In some cultures women Joining the international youth hostelling friends with a car owner and if you have to that can only be described as a Perspex old wallet with a small amount of money in take the bus at least find the origami dude coffin, before being hurtled around a track are not equal to men and female travellers movement means that you can get discount and a few old plastic cards should be in one can become objects of leering or banter as at all youth hostels world wide. The card who gives you free stuff. Girls, don’t bring that looked like something a class of five pocket as a mugging wallet. If cornered give gorgeous shoes. I brought a truckload and year olds had put together out of Lego. The many cultures perceive western women as can also gets you into historic or cultural the mugger this without hesitation as you easy. A simple ring worn on your wedding sites for a discount. www.hostelworld.com, I have ditched them for snow boots or flip corners were brutal, with the kart lurching know there is hardly any money in it and no flops as the weather requires…… Mainers horrifically, and I think I gave myself a mild finger will discourage men from pestering www.hostelbookers.com , cards or documents of importance. you, and women should not go out into www.hosteltraveller.com, are all good sites will wear flip flops in -24 and 3ft of snow! concussion when my head slammed against When you arrive at your destination you Make sure you have a good contact in your the coffin lid. towns alone or unaccompanied by a male. when researching a hostel. Some hostels should go to the British embassy and report Respect the local culture. Western ideals won’t have the luxury of separate rooms department as the International Office at Upon exit of this ride I felt the urge to yourself to them telling them how long you home seem to be rather busy and often run to the nearest church and say a few Hail about how we dress can come into conflict and you can find yourself sharing with other will be in the country for and what you will with other cultures. If it is the custom for people. Some places will provide lockers for very late at communication. Do not expect Maries to repent for whatever sins I had be doing there. You should give them copies any quick solutions from them if any at all. done to deserve that horror. Thankfully I women to cover up then it is considered your belongings but they normally come of your passport, travellers’ cheques, medical good manners to follow these customs. without a lock, so a small padlock is an Remember you will probably never see most will soon be back in Bangor, where the most forms, and itinerary. If any of these are lost of these people again so try all the crazy exciting ride is the walk down Bitch Hill. This also goes for behaviour. While in India advised purchase for peace of mind. then you need not fear. A European Health a guy I was travelling with put a few noses Getting sick can be part of travelling. stuff they have to offer and get involved. The Bring it on! Insurance Card, www.ehicard.org, give you international community here is fantastic out of joint by standing in front of a load A well stocked travel first aid kit will make free or reduced medical costs in Europe. of Buddhist monks, drunk as a sailor, telling you more comfortable. Some countries will and as long as you go to ‘Oronoka’ you will Pick-pocketing is a real problem for be fine! Amy Garrett them how much of a f*****g great time he require vaccinations before you travel so travellers, especially around tourist sites was having. while you’re there ask the nurse about what If you want any questions answered about or street theatres. Have your eyes peeled at going on exchange feel free Preparation is key. Research of your drugs and things to take with you. Drugs to all time and make sure you not only watch destination is one of the most important stop diarrhoea should be stocked piled! Even to send me an email at your own stuff but all your companions [email protected] things you can do before you go off just the heavy mineral contents of water of too. Another way is to have your hand in gallivanting. Finding out everything about foreign countries can cause stomach upsets. Good luck with finals, your pocket at all times but this can be a bit have a brilliant summer a place before you leave can give you a Water purification tablets are another handy impractical. Stay on the look out for group massive head start. History, currency, addition to your medical kit. Iodine based and I’ll see you in of homeless children, they slash the bottoms Wales……….. political situation, economic problems, purification tablets are the best but should of bags and pockets, also don’t let anyone push your or crowd you as they maybe trying to pick your pocket. Common sense Lucy x x should prevail when stopping a pickpocket. Backpacking is the best way of getting out into the wilderness and seeing things off the beaten trail. You need to be on your toes though, more so than when on a normal holiday as you will have to be self-sufficient 15 Peak Challenge for Charity in your trip. Preparation is a big part of your trip and vital if you want a smooth trip. The beauty of backpacking is that it can be done long with three friends from Bangor University, I am going to attempt to walk all at the last minute and need not be a trip fifteen mountains over 3000ft in Snowdonia National Park in one day. We will be across the Amazon or Gobi desert, it can be Awalking for approximately 14 hours over a distance of 52km, and 3635m of incline. a trip to one of Britain’s national parks, or By doing this walk we hope to raise money for North West Cancer Research Fund. The North inter-railing around Europe. West Cancer Research fund provides grants for cancer research, and has a research unit at Whatever your plans or goals, I wish you Bangor University. If you would like to sponsor us and help raise money for this worthwhile charity then go to http://www.justgiving.com/welsh15peaks, to donate. luck and safe travels. Luke Wilsher Paul Seymour Travel Editor Seren - End of Year Issue 2007 9 Memories of a leaver Features emember the Ffridd Bar? Remember eating a Dodgy Derek’s after a night out? Remember Supergrass at the ball? You do? Chances are Ryou’re a leaver then. For the last features page this year and for my last features page ever here’s something a little different, a trip down Pound a pint memory lane with some of your fondest moments at Bangor University. For the rest of you, here’s to the many more fond memories at Bangor to My favourite memory would have to come. be the pound-a-pint nights in Ffridd Bar in our first year when they were still good. Claire Mann, Features Editor There was nothing like getting there early to claim the huge tables and then slowly Beach trip Schizophonic launch everyone you knew turned up and drank I have many favourite memories of Bangor, but one that sticks out is the very first the night away. The Ffridd had some good My favourite Bangor memory has to be when I launched the first Schizophonic towards summer beach trip to Rhosneigr in the first year. All of my friends, beers, food and nights, JK and Joel, Scott Mills and the the end of second year, getting all my friends dancing in Academi. It was an awesome night a great campfire in the sand dunes made out of an old door we found. I spent all Halloween parties were the best!! with a great atmosphere and an after-party till the wee hours at mine. In a way this also day in the sun, playing frisbee and football with friends. What better way to spend a started me on my new career path as a DJ/producer and so has completely changed my summer’s day! Joe Chapman life. Id like to give massive thanks to the Academi guys for letting me put those nights on and a big-up to Bangor for being the place that it is, I’m sure I’ll be visiting next year! Dave Moreton Gary Brown Three blind Studying abroad mice…and Snow in Bangor Stevie Wonder I am an exchange student from Italy at the University of Bangor, Wales. I have My fondest memory of Bangor is when it been in Bangor since last September and I am so excited to say that I had a wonderful snowed here last year. Only a few inches of So many to snow fell, but the whole place ground to a experience. Going to study in another country gives you many opportunities, allowing choose from but one you to improve your skills and leaving you with astonishing memories. Spending halt. Lectures where cancelled and everyone that stands out is seemed to revile in the winter holiday we one year far away from my country in a different cultural and social environment has Halloween this year. enriched my personality in a special way. My English is much better today than when had. I remember everyone having a cheeky Bobby, James and glint in their eyes as they made snowballs, I arrived here and I am more outgoing and confident. I had the chance to get involved I wanted a famous in many activities with other English students, who were friendly and helped me with and the good atmosphere going around. I trio, so we naturally also remember slipping on some ice and my language difficulties. As I am studying Drama and Media I found it useful to join chose the Three the Bangor drama clubs, in fact I acted in Macbeth for Rostra and in The Tempest for falling flat on my ass in front of a car load Blind Mice. After of people, but I didn’t really care as the snow BEDS and other plays for my drama modules. I also have my own show on Storm FM reaching the limits of ‘The Big Mix Up’. I tried several sports and at the moment I am enjoying the lovely made everything seem so much more care our costume making free. weather and landscape by cycling and running around Bangor. I have learnt about abilities, we all thought we had done a pretty good job. However, as we entered the pub, other cultures, because I made a lot I was immediately asked, “Who have you come as? Stevie Wonder?? I think it was the of good friends from all over the walking stick that did it. Anyway, much hilarity ensued and I will always think of our three Luke Wilsher world, who are exchange students drunk, blind mice stumbling around Bangor with great affection. like me and it has been amazing to share this extraordinary adventure with them. Unfortunately the time Shiran Devakumar is over and I have to leave in June. I Film-making on a budget am very sad to leave everything and Walking in all my new friends but I am sure I I thought it would be easy choosing Snowdonia will keep in touch with them. I will my fondest memory from my three years be taking home with me a huge in Bangor. However, when racking my My favourite suitcase of remarkable knowledge brains and sifting through the plethora of memories from and skills. laugh-out-loud moments I have had here, Bangor are when I it became glaringly obvious that it was not have been walking in Valentina D’Errico such and easy task. Despite this, there is one Snowdonia with the memory that stands out above all others, and University Mountain this was when I, along with several of my Walking Club. One First day friends, made a film in our second year. As that springs to mind part of our course we were required to write is last January when My fondest memory of Bangor has to be the first ever day we got here. My parents and produce a film of about fifteen minutes it snowed heavily had just left and was feeling a bit daunted about the coming weeks. A few of us got in length. On a shoestring budget of precisely throughout the whole together and after introductions we went for a wonder ending up in the Ffridd bar. It zero, we had to beg, borrow and steal all that of the Snowdonia National Park, and we were walking to the top of Moel Siabod. On the felt nice knowing that I wasn’t the only one in that position and I knew I would always was needed to construct our masterpiece way up we had snow ball fights, and had amazing views across Snowdonia covered in snow. have people there. It was such a nice feeling, I felt so welcome from the very first day. that told a tale of love, obsession and murder. Before we started the walk, we all bought plastic bivy pags, so we could sit on them and I will miss Bangor greatly. Spooky! Although the equipment we used slide down the other side of the mountain once we had reached the top. I think that was can best be described as prehistoric, every the least amount of walking I have had to do when coming off a mountain. aspect of making the film was an absolute Felicity Snow riot, from filming in Tesco at two in the morning to drinking Paul Seymour Tenerife excessive amounts of smoothie whilst doing It was simple enough to ask other people to write their fondest memories but when it all-nighters in the editing Freshers’ week came to writing my own it’s only then I realised how hard it is! I’ve had many great nights suite. So, despite the My favourite memory of uni will out in Bangor but I think the memory I’ll never forget is a biological science field trip to soaring stress levels and have to be my first Fresher’s Week in Tenerife in November 2006. On the last full day we were taken by bus to sleepless nights, making 04/05. I was last to arrive in Elidir R the Barranco de Masca, a beautiful rocky valley. After a horrifying experience of the bus that film will stay with me (top floor) and was a bit behind all losing control and hitting the cliff barriers we arrived at the start point of the walk. The forever, and so I would my hallmates who had already settled sun bounced off the tall cliffs and the views were just spectacular. At the end of the walk like to say a big thank you in and (mostly) started drinking. the valley opened out to the ocean. We jumped off the rocks into the water to cool down, to absolutely everyone After our first night together in Time and then we were involved. the rest of the week was a bit of a taken back to a blur but it was the most fun I have local town by Chris ever had and I was really privileged boat. We even got to be with a great bunch of people. to see bottlenose Thomson We struck up friendships with each dolphins hunting other as well as with students in other a shoal of fish on halls and locals very quickly. We were the way, it couldn’t Glam rock wise enough to make the most of uni have asked for a Dressing up as ‘Kiss’ life before all the work and inevitable better day! for a friends Glam Rock birthday. There were four of us and we all thought we had slacked arguments about washing up kicked in! I off and produced four very bodged costume/makeup jobs. But when we got to the party, we would be very lucky if a time like that ever Claire found that most people had opted for a bit of neon eye-shadow, or a trendy neck scarf! We all came round again. Mann went to Academi and I’ve never felt so self-conscious of the fact that I looked like a maniac. Still, the photos are great and the perfect souvenir from my days in Bangor. Jon Anderson Alex Farley 10 Seren - End of Year Issue 2007 INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ith students from more than THE BIG INTERVIEW seventy-one countries, Bangor’s international student population hank you for agreeing to have a W is growing rapidly. During the academic chat, I wanted to start with Vice- year 2002/03, it was as low as 290. A survey TChancellor stuff. You started back for the academic year 2006/07 shows that in 2004 and it’s been seen as UWB international students have increased a modernising period in the in number, up to 580. However, it’s still University - a couple of years growing. The campus has attracted the in, how do you think the interest of many students worldwide with University has changed? its natural environment and low crime rate. Most students who have studied or already studying tell friends and family about the formally started back in quiet and friendly campus, while students 2004, having been acting searching for the best campus to study find IVice-Chancellor [VC] Bangor interesting and attractive. for a period and I had also The majority of students who won been Pro-Vice-Chancellor scholarships over the years through [PVC] for some years, 6 years organisational bodies such as the actually - because I’d been a Commonwealth have also chosen UWB, and PVC for quite a long time and because I’d from experience they weren’t disappointed, been acting VC, I think I was very aware of and highly proud of what they will achieve what needed to be done. in their studying environment. A major part of the first two years While international students make was to ensure that we have a much more Bangor their second home, with the help transparent and efficient management of the Students’ Union they can meet and system – for a purpose, though, for the interact with other international students; achievement of excellence and particularly award bodies such as SHINE also give them the emphasis on improving our research the opportunity to express their feelings reputation and performance, increasing and knowledge. SHINE helps international student recruitment, improving our estate students all over UK by asking applying for staff and students and a whole range students to write a “letter home” to families of other things – getting degree-awarding and friends. Students use this opportunity powers, trying to attract major research When the Students’ Union President, Sam Burnett volunteered to interview to express themselves and what they have council funding, those are all things which achieved while studying abroad. we have achieved in the first two and a half the Vice Chancellor of the University, Merfyn Jones, SEREN leapt at the A regional winner this year, Yusi Liu, years. chance to print the interview. Armed with a dictaphone and Sam’s own 22, from China, brightened up the year for other international students by making hat’s quite a quick pressing questions, he set off up the hill with the aim of getting to the them aware of such award bodies. The 3rd turnaround – have year psychology student has wide experience you got more things bottom of what makes the VC tick. Out came a fascinating 5000 word T in travelling and volunteering work. When to achieve, or is it just a case interview. An abridged version is printed here, but for the full version log she became Welsh International Student of of improving on what you’ve the Year 2007, she inspired a large number got now? onto www.samburnett.co.uk of other students who have undergone an ’ll give you that one. I’d think we’re in a period interesting and stunning experiences while like to talk more about studying. now where there will imagine it’s quite difficult didn’t realise until you now – how do you Yusi came to study at the University in be a certain amount of for the University, I I recently that Sian Hope become a VC? Is it something late 2003, and started an English course. change; it was necessary at because you’re not just I and Meri Huws were you can set out to do? When While thinking of studying abroad, she the beginning to get a lot I giving an education; it’s a the first women PVCs the did you start wanting to be searched the net and had a wide range of things done – we need lifestyle as well. How does the University has had - was that one? of other universities and English schools to consolidate and make University meet a challenge a natural progression, or is it to choose from, but had her eye fixed on sure that the new college structure works like that? hard to challenge academics don’t think I’d be in a properly, which means a certain amount of Bangor, “I wanted a quiet and nice place in some areas? position of how to write to study, so when I read about Bangor, the devolution in responsibility to the colleges. eing at university, if one is a full time a manual on how to And aiming to look again at the student I mountains, Snowdonia and mostly, the low student, is a crucial period in people’s become a Vice-Chancellor. I t still remains the case crime rate, then I knew it was the right place experience more generally – we need to be lives – of course the education you can’t say it’s been a burning B that across HE within for me”. She said “with help from people in constantly improving. receive is central, but so are all the other desire throughout my career. senior management the nice friendly environment, I felt for the activities. I think there are I Looking back I can see that it women are few and far town and decided to do my degree in the alking about times in higher education has been a long apprenticeship, if not being between. I think there are University.” student expectation where that can be lost sight a vice chancellor then doing something only two or three female Yusi won the Welsh International improving the of. In some larger institutions similar. From a very early point in my T VCs out of 120 institutions Student of the Year and a £1000 prize money, product – are students they do think entirely in academic career I found myself being asked hosted by the British Council. She headed to customers these days? terms of the product, rather – as a lifelong feminist I find that difficult to carry a certain amount of managerial London for the finals, and even though she than seeing it in terms of a to accept - that cannot reflect the talent that responsibility. wasn’t the chosen one, she has done Bangor much broader experience. is available. By saying that I’m a lifelong feminist – I should explain that I attended international students proud. “I was very ’ve found as President the first women’s liberation meeting in lucky to be chosen to sit on the top table ’m an old-fashioned that when you take on Oxford in 1969, I think it was… with the Chairman of the British Council chap really, I find it hat experience can strongly affect a title or a job like that, I – the Rt Hon. Lord Neil Kinnock, the BBC really difficult to think of students’ lives, – I wasn’t even people tend to depersonalise I news presenter Moira Stuart OBE, and the students only as customers. thinking of politics when I came to you, or treat you in a certain T famous shoe designer Dato Professor Jimmy Bangor, but when I came to hat was brave. Higher education, is it way and assume certain Choo, OBE” she said. “The whole ceremony t makes me wince. University and got involved more forward thinking than forward things about you... I always was well organised and I got my trophy as with the Students’ Union… doing? Academics are very… find it important to have things that I’ve T the Wales International Student of the Year it’s quite a strong influence thoughtful people; does that always done like hobbies, to get away from I 2007 on the stage” she added. on people’s lives we’ve got as not necessarily translate into it. Did you find the same sort of thing and Alan Edward, the International Students a university. practical things? There’s that how do you maintain Merfyn Jones outside Welfare Adviser adds that Bangor specifically old saying isn’t there – “those of work? who can, do…” is a beautiful place to live, has a cheap ell, having taught think the whole idea of a t shouldn’t have student environment and is in a low crime for 35 years, I still University is something surprised me, but it did, area. His advice to international students is Wsee students as we need to think about because people see you to get involved in both student and local life people you work with, you I I activities, see and experience, take part and for the future. We can see as the Vice-Chancellor rather teach, but there is no avoiding the cultural elements of it clearly – the don’t buy that – HE than ‘me’ and I suppose that try as many helpful things as you can”. shift, which is a long-term one over the environment in Bangor is an has actually changed there is a certain kind of Bangor has helped its international past 20 years, where people see themselves influence, part of the Bangor Iphenomenally over the something that goes with students in a variety of ways, from a good as customers and are more demanding and experience. There are other things as well - past 30 years or so, in terms being a VC but it can be depersonalising, welfare service to scholarships. It is now left want a better product. We’re operating in a accommodation, interaction students have of numbers of students, you’re right. There are two ways I counter up to these students to be active and effective, different environment. There’s also the issue with each other, social life. Bangor has many responding to challenges. it – I try to be myself…I’m quite open and participate and help make people aware of of student fees – once students are paying features of a campus university, in that it It’s unfair to say that informal, there’s no ceremony or status both the university and themselves. individually for their educations then they feels like a campus, but actually it isn’t, universities, academics are thinkers rather issues – my approach is informal and my “There is no place like home, Bangor is technically do become customers, and one because it’s in this small city. than doers. Academics can be very active approach is to treat everyone as equals. This my home”, said Xavier, 24, a student from has to be conscious of that. There’s a direct I see this area where the University is as in changing their environment. I genuinely is reinforced as I don’t live in a VC’s lodge on the English and Literature department, link between the student and the product... more of a student village really. Perhaps the don’t share that view of ivory towers, a leafy part of the campus as many do – my originally from Martinique. Something that I’m always a bit nervous about taking Ffriddoedd development, another thousand dreamy academics and so on – academics house is actually in the centre of Caernarfon, most international students are also proud these terms and applying them to higher students there, will allow us to do that. But I live in the real world, more so than people airs and graces wouldn’t see me to the end of to quote. education, but they do have a force. think you’re right, we have to think outside give them credit for. the road! Once I’m at home I’m just another of teaching and learning. guy in the street. Noellin Imoh Seren - End of Year Issue 2007 11 ONE MINUTE WELSH

Books SHOPAHOLIC & ROMANTICISING OUR BABY - FEMALE AUTHORS ecently, it has felt like not a week facts for the sake of a good film? her search for love. It needed only a little SOPHIE KINSELLA goes by when there isn’t a period In a word, yes. The newest biographical Hollywood exaggeration of the facts to turn Ever the fashion freak, when Becky Rdrama being shown on TV. At the film about an author, Becoming Jane starring it into a gripping film. Beatrix was secretly discovers that the current must-have time of writing, huge amounts of fuss was Anne Hathaway in the title role, is based on engaged to her publisher, Norman Warne, celebrity obstetrician has moved to London, being made about the BBC’s latest costumed Jane Austen’s early writing career, who sadly died before the wedding could she becomes fixated on becoming her patient offering, Miss Marie Lloyd – Queen of the although it centres on her factual take place. Following Warne’s death, and wangles a spot on the coveted ‘list’. Music Hall, and it doesn’t seem five romance with her young she used money earned However, things aren’t what they seem, and minutes since ITV screened their neighbour, Tom Lefroy. from the sale during her first appointment with Venetia Jane Austen season, featuring Lefroy actually existed, of her Carter, Becky discovers that her husband adaptations of her in fact, he went on to books Luke dated Venetia when they studied at three less-known become Chief Justice t o Cambridge together. Venetia and Luke novels. And of Ireland, but buy a renew their friendship and Becky slowly it seems that there is little farm in becomes convinced that their friendship Hollywood is evidence to the Lake is in fact a full-blown affair. What starts as also jumping on s u g g e s t D i s t r i c t , reading Luke’s text messages quickly takes a the bandwagon. t h a t where she downward spiral and ends with a desperate In recent their co n t i nu e d and heartbroken Becky hiring a private years we’ve seen to write detective to tail Luke. Things come to a head adaptations of such a l o n g s i d e when Venetia herself informs Becky about British literary classics caring for her the affair. But is it all as it seems? as Pride and Prejudice and many pets. It Despite all this action, Becky still manages the Lord of the Rings trilogy. was during this to spend excessive amounts of money, and But the trouble with these time that she there are a couple of pointless sub-plots that classics is that the authors in met and married s the tagline from the publishers see Becky single-handedly saving the sinking question are dead. Unlike Harry solicitor William proclaims – “Becky Bloomwood is department store where she works, securing Potter and The Da Vinci Code, Heelis, who had there will never be another book to helped her purchase back… with a bump!” the purchase of a new home and arranging a relationship A th adapt for the big screen. So how to many other pieces of Shopaholic & Baby is the 5 volume photoshoot with Vogue. was anywhere near as satisfy the apparent literary cravings of land in the surrounding area. of the immensely popular ‘Shopaholic’ Apart from those minor niggles, serious as it is portrayed to the cinema-going masses? So now we can only wait and wonder series by former financial journalist Sophie Shopaholic & Baby is a hilarious addition to be in the film. The big studios think they have the which author is next in line to have their life Kinsella. Newly-married Becky Bloomwood the series and another winner for Kinsella, A much more factual and truthful solution. The current in thing in Hollywood drastically exaggerated for the purpose of discovered at the end of the last book that but perhaps for hardcore fans only! biopic was January’s Miss Potter starring are biographical films concentrating on the mass entertainment! she was pregnant. This book picks up a few Renée Zellweger as celebrated children’s authors and examining how events in their months later, when in true Becky style, she author, Beatrix Potter. It follows her struggle Loran Perkins own lives influenced their work. But have manages to embarrass herself when having Loran Perkins for freedom from her repressive parents, her the studio executives over-embellished the a simple scan! search to find a publisher, and ultimately, 12 Seren - End of Year Issue 2007 BANGOR With the releaseHalo of two as abrupt as2 a car crash. In face of new Halo games soon, Seren a huge number of returns from disappointed Games fans, the saving grace of the game turned out takes a quick look back at the to be online mode supported by the Xbox LEAVERS series so far and looks ahead Live service. The online mode saw tens of thousands of gamers logging millions to the future to see what we of hours played in total. That doesn’t 2007 can expect from these eagerly mean to say the online side of the game m gonna miss all you guys and our anticipated titles. didn’t have problems. Thanks to the lack Trash Wednesdays. Especially Baz’s of any dedicated server, cheating became ferret-related ‘incident’. Good luck alo began development in 1996 by commonplace in the game, which led to A with your exams John, Mark, Andrea, Jen Bungie Studios as an RTS title for players’ ranks being reset, undermining the the Mac platform. Several years on and Andy. H very reason why many players continue - Mark Fielding Microsoft on the verge of releasing the Xbox to play the game - to increase their rank. console, snapped up the outfit and the rights Accompanied by what was generally to the game. Work began on building the considered to be an immature player base game for the Xbox and had, by this point, as well as a fleet of other problems, many ey Candice, remember the evolved into an FPS. gamers turned off from the game. chocolate sandwich we had? In 2001, Halo was complete and ready to Later this month we’ll be seeing the Ecstasy. ship with the Xbox as the main launch title H release of Halo 2 for the PC after over two - Pete Smith for the system. It featured graphics never years of waiting. The game has already been seen before on any console platform, solid delayed at the last minute, but hopefully is game-play and a strong storyline. While the not a sign of things to come. game was not overly innovative, it got high Just as the original Halo was used to ratings across the board and helped boost push sales of the Xbox, Halo 2 is being o all the art crowd, Seren, hill walkers, sales of the Xbox. used to push sales of the new Windows Phil de la skill (but not so skill when it After a couple of years in waiting, in Vista operating system and their ‘Live for Tcomes to keeping tea vertical and pub S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: 2003, PC gamers got a slice of the Halo Windows’ service which essentially is the lunchist), Liz (she likes the sound of cars on pie. The PC version ported by development equivalent of Xbox Live for the PC. Opinions gravel and the smell of blown-out candles studio Gearbox Software featured many on the Live for Windows service have been a don’t you know) Catrin (known for her Shadow of Chernobyl improvements over the original Xbox title, mixed bag. On the one hand you can have a whirlwind romances on the aisles of Tescos), namely, an online multiplayer mode which Matt (Storm’s whiz-kid), Tim (frequenter move on? However, I felt detached from my free account to play, but on the other hand STALKER is THQ’s newest came with several new maps, a new weapon, of charity shops in search of pensioners character and the factions because I didn’t to make the most of the game you have to use of the Banshee and a new Warthog. clothes), Eilian (master of mysteries), Mark PC first person shooter (FPS) feel any connection as such and thus, didn’t pay a subscription fee, something many PC After having to wait several years for (mathematical mastermind and squire of on the block. care much about what happened to them. gamers are unhappy about. the ageing game to be brought to the PC the shire), Ruth (BA, LLC, QC, MC, PHD, The only reason I felt compelled to keep Halo 2 was developed by a small team in he game is set in 2012, six years after platform, PC gamers found the game was MSC, DJ), Sam (sue-star superstar), Catrin playing the single player mode was to see conjunction with Microsoft known as Hired a second explosion in Chernobyl and far from perfect. It lacked support for user C (lecturer extraordinaire), Adam and KJ what the next stunning area would look Gun. This time the game will feature a map twenty-six years after the original in created content, something which had been good luck with your exams and have a great T like. editor and user created content straight out 1986. Known simply as ‘Stalker’, a generic pretty much standard in PC games since of the box. Details on the title have been a bit summer. Enjoy the festival season and have name used for all those living within the The audio of the game really helps to add the dawn of the FPS genre without hideous sketchy, but it looks to bring nothing much a good life. :-) irradiated zone, you arrive in the game in depth to the areas in the game, with silence hacks and workarounds. It also suffered new to the table. It will lack the anticipated - Ross Butler the back of a truck, carrying the dead out accompanied by only the quiet crackling from a number of multiplayer problems. co-op modes, support for rankings, full of the centre of Chernobyl. You are the only of your Geiger counter, often being just as Initially, there was no dedicated server model and textures changes for higher survivor to come from one of the so-called eerie as hearing distant rumbling from what software available and because the online resolution modes and single player custom “death cars”, but you have no recollection of it is that lies ahead of you. The music can code had been poorly developed for 56k content support. It will however support est wishes for the future to John, what you were doing there, or even who you become a bit repetitive with only one track users at the request of Microsoft, the online ‘Gamer Achievements’, giving you points for Ellie, Pete, Emma, Lexi, Chris and are. The only thing you know is you were actually working, but at the time of writing mode suffered from severe latency problems completing certain tasks within the game. Sean. For future reference Sean, when on a mission to find a man named Strelok. there’s a mode to unlock music that was B which were never corrected in the various The game looks set to have little success due a barmaid asks how much head you’d like, You are delivered to a trader, someone who never used for some unknown reason. patches that were released. to poor sales of the Windows Vista operating that’s not what she means. profits by buying and selling items found in The online mode sadly only has Roughly a year after the release of the system, and may drive away much of the - Jennifer Knotts ‘The Zone’. He gives you your first mission three game-play modes. Your standard PC title, Gearbox released a standalone hardcore FPS gaming crowd by the move and instructions for getting around, as well Deathmatch, Team Deathmatch and a multiplayer only version of the game to to support Xbox controllers and integrating as some basic plot information. new mode named ‘Artifact Hunt’ in which support multiplayer maps named Halo auto-aiming into the game. The first thing you notice when you enter you play as either The Stalkers or the Custom Edition. Along with the game, they Halo 3 is set to be released in the later the world, as you stand in the office of the Mercenaries and seek to control the artifacts ood byes to the geography third released an editing kit to help with the months of this year. So far little has been trader, is how graphically stunning the game that are spawned on the map and return years especially Elizabeth and her creation process for those seeking to make given away about the storyline and the is. When you throw in the dark, moody area them to your base before the other team quality map reading skills on our their own maps. Since this update was details on multiplayer mode are a bit G of the game with high graphical settings, the can. Surprisingly, the one class you’d expect field trip. released as a separate program, it served unclear, though with an online beta test game is beautiful with detailed shadows and to see, your standard ‘capture the flag’, is - Tony Harris to split the already small community in beginning later this month, we’ll soon start realistic lighting effects that really bring the missing. There’s a decent choice of maps two, resulting in a swift death for the Halo to hear a lot more about the game. game to life and set the mood. One problem to choose from, ranging from train yards Custom Edition version of the game. As for other games in the Halo franchise however, is that after only several minutes in to abandoned military bases. Whether the At the E3 trade show in 2004 the world we’re set to see two more games. Although the game I was clicking around the advanced maps are enough to keep players entertained began to get glimpses of what Halo 2 had one is completely under wraps for the graphics options menu working out how to for long remains to be seen however. I didn’t torm FM would like to thank third year to offer. Stunning graphics, radical changes moment, the second is being developed as actually get a decent performance on the try multiplayer out too much, as the clunky, leavers and wish them lots of luck: to the game-play and a promising storyline. an RTS named ‘Halo Wars’ by Ensemble game without sacrificing too much in heavy game-play controls were only made to Tom Giddings After many delays, the game came out in Studios, however no details have been S feel worse online. It’s more spray and pray graphical quality. Despite turning most of November once again on the Xbox platform. Matt Woonton rather than many other titles where good revealed for this title as of yet either. Plans the graphical features down, I still found It became a record breaking game, beating Hailey Whittaker aiming and planting that headshot would be had been rumoured for a movie adaptation the game to be sluggish in places, with top-seller GTA in sales and raking in $125 Sean Clements all important and it didn’t appeal to me. which are reportedly still on hold due to the distracting drops in the frames per second. million on the first day of release alone. Claire Stapleton Hopefully as time goes on, the user original studio pulling out. I found some of the lighting to be buggy as However, what gamers saw at E3 and David Hood community will generate new content for Only time will tell what else is in store I went through the game, with areas often what they got in game were quite different. Ashley Fishman the multiplayer mode to advance it, as for Halo, but the future looks bright with becoming simply too dark to see anything The storyline turned out to be lacklustre and (and Spencer, but he’s staying!) there’s a huge amount of possibility with another three titles on the way following the in, even with the Stalker’s torch turned on. many of the anticipated features had been the game. A number of mods have already release of Halo 2 this month. Stumbling around outside in the middle of removed without warning from the game. surfaced, mainly unlocking features that two battling factions in virtually pitch black, The biggest disappointment of all turned were never implemented such as vehicles wondering where the road is and avoiding out to be the ending of the game which was Ross Butler trees and various other unseen obstacles and graphical/audio modifications. EREN would like to say goodbye to all isn’t a lot of fun. It had me straining at my If your PC hasn’t got a strong heart, don’t their wonderful third years who have monitor trying to see what to do. waste your time with this title, so be sure invested so much time into the paper The game’s missions are pretty linear, to check what the minimum specifications S and wish them all the best: but you don’t feel cramped as you have are, then make sure your machine surpasses Chris Thomson plenty of space to roam free and scores of them by a fair amount to actually get a Claire Mann optional extra missions you can take to decent experience. The game is definitely Luke Wilsher improve your standing with the various worth a play, but it might be a good idea Lexi Hindley factions of the game. Factions build up an to hold on for a couple of patches to let the Ross Butler important part of the game, with certain game mature slightly. One major problem missions increasing your reputation with was that the first patch invalidated all certain groups, and others decreasing your previous saved games, thus resetting your reputation, determining whether you are progress in the game. allied or hostile with these groups. As well The game can feel unrefined in places, but it’s still a strong title worthy of a look as that, STALKER is an open ended game, o all those who ran in the elections into if the sound of an atmospheric shooter with a number of possible endings that and are now leaving, good luck. appeals to you. could take place, depending on the path you - Pete Banks choose to take through the game. Will greed T get the better of you as you profit from The Alex Trebul Zone, or will you seek to leave The Zone and Seren - End of Year Issue 2007 13 Spiderman 3 (12A) ˜ ˜ ˜ City of God (18 DVD) ˜ ˜ ˜ ˜ ˜

Bridge to Terabithia ˜ ˜ ˜ ˜

inner of Best Foreign Language Film at the 2002 Oscar ceremony, WCity of God is a powerful and blistering look down the mean streets of Brazil’s capital Rio de Janeiro which follows two individuals growing during the sixties. One, Li’l Dice who quickly shows his colours as a psychopath who grows up to be the local kingpin of the drug industry, rapist t’s time to get those spidey-senses nothing short of stunning, in particular the and mass killer. The other, Rocket, grows up tingling again and dust off that not-at- rendering of Sandman, something I’m sure with ambitions of being a photographer Iall gay spandex for the latest instalment will have given the SFX departments more and hopes to escape his surroundings in the Spiderman series. The first of this than a few headaches. Also, the long-awaited for a better life. The attention is focused summer’s four threequels, Spiderman 3 sees realisation of Venom is spectacular, if a little more on Li’l Dice’s rise to power which is the web-slinger battle with his inner demons brief, although it is sure to be enough to put unflinchingly portrayed as he literally kills as well as those terrorising the streets of New a smile on the faces of diehard Spiderman his way to the top from a very young age York City. After finally feeling like he has fans. In the previous two movies, director of around nine or ten. His recruitment of hen it was released in America as his life comes crashing down around him. found the balance between being your local Sam Raimi has made a conscious effort to gangsters involves testing children’s ability many moviegoers were When his sister May Belle (Bailee Madison) neighbourhood Spiderman and spending limit the bad guy count to one. However, to kill other people (children if necessary Wdisappointed with Bridge to wants to go to his magical world he is at first time with the love of his life, Mary Jane in Spiderman 3 it triples, leading the plot to in one testing scene in which a kid under Terabithia, largely due to misleading trailers hostile towards her but he sees a chance at Watson (Kirsten Dunst), Peter Parker (Tobey become a little too busy and disjointed in Li’l Dice’s wing has to choose between that make it appear that the film is another redemption and builds the titular bridge so Maguire) is on top of the world. However, as places. That Venom’s screen time is minimal two children which to kill). Despite these film like Narnia about children discovering that she can see it for herself. his self-confidence slowly turns to arrogance is an issue that really should have been moments of uncomfortable tension, the film a real magical kingdom. The film actually First off I will make it clear that Bridge he pushes Mary Jane into the arms of his addressed as he feels somewhat shoehorned is never less than gripping, entertaining and has considerably more to offer than Narnia to Terabithia is not The Chronicles of Narnia. friend-turned-foe Harry Osborn (James into the script, and could (and should) have is hard to take your eyes of with its striking or other similar films, in that it is actually a That film saw a group of kids discovering Franco), who is still mourning the death of easily had a film of his own. That there visuals, lavish cinematography and frenzied very realistic account of how two kids deal a real magical world, but here the magical his father at the hands of Spiderman. During is so much going on in the film means it inventive editing. The performances are all with very real issues such as young love and kingdom is entirely imaginary, and a terrific a restless night’s sleep, Peter’s Spider-suit feels a little on the long side despite it only first rate and add to the realism of the film companionship, bullying and loss. Produced representation of the ability of a child to becomes possessed by an alien parasite clocking in at around 2hrs 20mins, and the as many of the actors were non professionals by Walden Media who have previously made imagine beyond what is real and create a known as Venom that amplifies his new lack of character development from most who were inhabitants of Rio de Janeiro’s films like Charlotte’s Web and of course whole new world. Even though we do see found self assurance, heightening his powers individuals may leave fans feeling a little slums. Dialogue was also improvised to add Narnia, this film is definitely a rewarding the magical kingdom of Terabithia as seen whilst also turning him into an insufferable, short-changed. authenticity to the proceedings. experience in many ways. through the eyes of the young characters, egotistical chauvinist. However, this should not detract from City of God is strongly reminiscent of The film’s protagonists are Jesse Aarons and the visual effects are pretty good, it isn’t Meanwhile, escaped convict Flint Marko the film as a whole, as there are some Martin Scorsese’s Goodfellas, with its use (Josh Hutcherson) and Leslie Burke (Anna simply for the sake of visual spectacle, it’s (Thomas Haden Church), on the run from excellent performances, namely from James of voiceover narration from the film’s Sophia Robb), two kids who are pretty purpose instead being to show the creativity the police, unwittingly stumbles into a Franco and the ever-brilliant J.K. Simmons character Rocket and the storyline which much outcasts at school. Jesse is a poor and talent of the two protagonists, and also forbidden testing site, resulting in Marko’s as ruthless newspaper tycoon J. Jonah follows in the same style as Goodfellas with farmer kid with a talent as an artist and how they deal with a world in which they ability to turn into and manipulate sand at Jameson. What the film does well, it does action taking place over three decades. Leslie is a well-off city girl with a gifted seem out of place. In addition, it shows how will. Attempting to rob a bank to pay for very well. The action sequences are the same There is also an underline of dark humour, imagination. Despite being very different they learn new ways and attain the courage surgery for his daughter, Marko, now the heart-pounding thrill rides we have come to again reminiscent of Goodfellas. The the two fast become friends. Leslie comes to deal with real life problems, with their Sandman, comes to blows with Spiderman expect, and the love triangle of Parker/ character of Li’l Dice is also comparable to up with the idea of creating a place just real lives being what the film is really about. and vows to get his revenge. However, Spidey Dunst/Osborn really makes you feel for all Goodfellas’ Tommy played by Joe Pesci. The for them that no one else will know about, Outside of Terabithia they have to deal with isn’t the only one with his card marked, as involved. On the other hand, you do feel as performance by Douglas Silva (Li’l Dice) is and this leads them to wander into the everyday problems but all those disappear Peter’s job at the Daily Bugle is under threat if they have tried to do maybe a little too just as good, if anything, more dangerous woods where they find an old disused tree in their imaginations. All this is done in a from new kid on the block Eddie Brock. much with this film, and whilst by no means than Joe Pesci’s in portraying the scary, house, and a tree so high that they view all very convincing manner thanks to a well- With both Peter and Spiderman facing their is it a disaster of X-Men 3 proportions, you menacing unpredictability of someone the land around for miles. Together they written script, brilliant direction by family greatest adversities yet, they must overcome do wonder whether it could have been so fuelled only by violence. create the magical land of Terabithia, an entertainment veteran Gabor Csupo (of their own shortcomings in order to once much more. Director Fernando Meirelles (The imaginary world in the woods that only they Rugrats fame) and brilliant acting from the again triumph over evil. Constant Gardner) has created a truly can experience, and where they must face entire young cast, with Hutcherson, Robb As per usual the special effects are exhilarating adrenaline rush of a film, full numerous threats from the mystic creatures. and Madison all standing out by a mile. The Chris Thomson of hyperkinetic action, a lightning fast pace And the only way there is a rope swing over grown-up actors generally fail to stand out and a riveting storyline. The film is a very a stream. Over time they live both their lives amongst all the talented kids, with Robert The Grindhouse Travesty original take on the gangster movie and in the real world and their imaginary lives Patrick as Jesse’s father seeming particularly feels fresh despite previous gangster movie in Terabithia, gradually rebuilding the tree underused, but the highlight is the always ad American Airlines not lost my critically well received in the States (it is classics such as Goodfellas, The Godfather house, creating somewhere that is truly delightful Zooey Deschanel. bag at Chicago airport, there was a still tracking at 81% on Rotten Tomatoes at and Scarface. The realism and authenticity theirs. It isn’t long before they are using Overall, Bridge to Terabithia is an Hvery good chance that I could have the time of writing). But of course, critical of the film’s visuals, performances and ideas from their fantasy world to deal with extremely well executed family movie that is seen Grindhouse whilst I was in Los Angeles reaction does not always translate to Box important messages about the state of life real life problems such as the school bully visually spectacular but never at the cost of last month. Not only that, I could have Office Gold. That must mean that we are and the only way for children to survive in Janice Avery (Lauren Clinton), who actually being a heart-warming, moving, meaningful, seen Grindhouse the way it was MEANT exactly the same as the Americans then! We Rio de Janeiro’s slums is resorting to crime turns out to be as much a victim as those she and sometimes quite said film. It is also a will not go and see it either! and violence makes City of God stand alone picks on. Things are going well for Jesse and superb example of why Walden Media are Rubbish. We are a different from the rest. Leslie until one day when he is invited on a the masters when it comes to producing breed of cinema goer, and The extras for the DVD are day trip with his favourite teacher (Zooey high quality family entertainment. I highly we are far more willing disappointingly sparse, totalling with Deschanel), leaving Leslie alone to go over recommend this film as it is an extremely to see something that will just one documentary highlighting crime to Terabithia, leading to a tragedy that will rewarding viewing experience. challenge us. To those who culture in Brazil’s capital city. Apparent change everything. Jesse’s grief and guilt for are dismissing the running reports of a dangerous and difficult shoot not being there for her drives him to despair Robert Mann time as the major flaw, they for the director within the slums would have are only partially right. made an interesting commentary or behind Whilst it may be that the the scenes documentary. film is a victim of its own Thanks for hubris (the individual films were meant to be just under Mark Varley an hour, rather than a good reading this year, to be seen. Unfortunately, I doubt I’ll get 90 minutes each), Titanic that proper chance for a very long time. and Return of the King have proven that that we should be seeing the film as it was Momentum Pictures who are distributing audiences can be seated for over three hours intended. If you are at all annoyed by this enjoy the Summer the film in the UK have decided to pull the and come back for more. turn of events, write to Momentum, tell film from the 1st June release date, and split Perhaps the main problem is that them that you want to see Grindhouse in its up the film, with Death Proof being released Tarantino and Rodriguez were attempting full, uncut form. Other than that, rumours blockbusters, in September, whilst Planet Terror has no something that just did not sit right with are circulating that there might be a quick fixed release date. the American public. The Grindhouse Region 1 DVD release of the full feature, Why is this such a travesty? First off, it form has never been the most popular in possibly by the end of the summer. The and see you in proves that distribution houses believe so- America, and for pundits, critics and movie choice is yours. called negative buzz far too much, without moguls alike to expect a massive summer allowing us to make up our own minds. smash, well, maybe they were just a bit too Ian Davies ambitious. This does not change the fact September! The fact of the matter is that the film was Ian - Film Editor 14 Seren - End of Year Issue 2007 Maximo Park - Our Coachella and Earthly Pleasures Rage Against the robably one of the most underrated bands of the moment, Maximo Park Machine - £700 Film Music Pfollow up their critically-acclaimed debut album A Certain Trigger with this, Our well spent? Earthly Pleasures. Overshadowed by similar or the majority of this decade, sounding bands such as The Futureheads a promotions company called and Franz Ferdinand, Maximo Park don’t FGoldenvoice have been hosting what seem to have commanded their fair share they feel is the American Glastonbury in of media attention despite being nominated the California desert, a little festival named for the Mercury Music Prize. Coachella. This year, they extended it to The problem is that Maximo Park seem three days, after the success of the previous to have emerged in the aftermath of the years. Not only that, they convinced one of art-rock fad which at the moment seems the greatest bands of our generation, Rage to have recoiled having experienced a Against the Machine, to reunite for what somewhat saturated market. This has made was meant to be a one off gig. I never got it a challenge to establish a unique identity to see them back in their heyday, thanks to help them stand out from the crowd. to partially over-zealous parents unwilling Hopefully Our Earthly Pleasures should to take me to one of those horrible rock see this change with a veritable plethora of concerts (my first gig was Coldplay in the radio-friendly catchy tunes sure to garner Manchester Apollo back in 2000 for gods mainstream attention. sake). Naturally, this seemed like the perfect Leading the charge back into radio-land opportunity to unite a much needed is the single ‘Our Velocity’, an energy-packed holiday, my annual festival trip, and a once riot of a track which charted at number 9. in a lifetime opportunity into one crazy six ‘Our Velocity’ is representative of about day trip. So, here’s a few tips and thoughts half the album, namely the half that is what about the American festival scene. could only be described as a spring-loaded 1) If you are going over purely for sing-along rock-athon. The other half is a Coachella, DO NOT fly to LA. If you’re Arctic Monkeys - Not just a flash in the pan bit more country sounding – think an up- feeling brave enough, rent a car. But getting tempo catchier version of Idlewild (of which to and from LA to Indio (where the festival Porcupine the second single from the album, ‘Books is held) can be more hassle than it’s worth Arctic Kings of From Boxes’, is a good example). There are thanks to a horrendously run Greyhound Tree - fantastic tunes to be found on this album service. Palm Springs is a much closer Monkeys - Leon - such as the beautiful piano-laden ‘Your airport, and should not be too hard to get Urge’ which retains an upbeat feeling, but to and from. Fear of a Blank blends it with a sprinkling of melancholy. 2) Ensure that any taxi services are Favourite Because of If you enjoyed A Certain Trigger, you running the meter, you can get ripped off Planet certainly shan’t be disappointed by this – quite easily. Worst Night- the Times his is not going to be a track-by track Maximo Park have kept true to their sound, 3) Take plenty of sunscreen, hats and he four-piece from Tennessee review. This album deserves and producing another energetic offering but loose clothing. It was 100 degree Fahrenheit have set up a perfect backdrop to Tdemands something more. Walls of with refined lyrics and an emotional aspect weather all weekend, which seems like mare their UK summer tour with their intricate sound carried by surging urgency to every track lending depth to the album. an oven to those of us used to the Welsh little over a year on, the Northern T crafted from the orgasms of angels will third offering, Because of the Times. After climate! Foursome have released the follow a magnificent follow-up to their debut creep into every corner of your mind within 4) Queues can be ridiculously long, to their critically acclaimed debut Ross Butler A Youth and Young Manhood, it was always seconds of this record’s spin. so ensure you have enough water for the Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What going be difficult to produce a third album There is a frantic yet still beautiful lyrical queue, you can only take one sealed bottle I’m Not. New bassist in tow, Alex Turner which rivalled the brilliance of the first delivery in place of Wilson’s trademark of water in with you, and you will NOT be et al have done the unthinkable and have two. soothing vocals. Instantly recognisable allowed re-admittance to the arena if you produced an album that matches, punch for Whilst the first two albums followed as Porcupine Tree, the sound of eastern- come back to the campsite. punch, the quality of their first. similar veins in terms of style and influenced guitar licks encompassed Despite all this, the festival was pretty After a relentless year of touring and an substance, this new album seems to hail by wailing atmospherics and ambient well run. The campsite was gorgeous, with EP to boot, it is surprising that they have had in a new era of the KoL brand, and it’s not soundscapes is music to write to, to feel toilets that were actually a pleasure to use the time to somehow squeeze in an album to everyone’s taste. Much like the Strokes’ inspired to, to scream to, to meditate to, and plenty of showers! There was plenty so meticulous in construction. Displaying a disastrous third album, many fans have to toke to, to plot murder to. Is this music to do without having to resort to tatty much more mature sound, both in style and dubbed this a new ‘mature’ KoL sound, as it never was, yet perhaps, should always festival shops or £5 a pop Oxygen tubes content, it is evident the Sheffield boys have and with the first track an epic seven have been? (I can’t be the only one sick of those). grown up a lot over the past twelve months. minute monster entitled ‘Knocked Up’, Few singers can claim to match the Coachella is a chance to see some pretty Gone are bashings of chav culture and in Rhythms Del this certainly seems to be the case. gushing-from-the-heart pleading and incredible art on display, a lot of which are the more autobiographical musings Don’t be mistaken, the Kings of old are preaching of Wilson, who leaves us with Mundo, Cuba. truly comes alive at night, such as huge of a band that have experienced life at the still hiding in there somewhere – Caleb the conviction that he is truly singing for ontempory artists have joined tesla coils and light displays. The arena very top. Followill’s voice still has it’s uniquely his life. The sound on FOABP slinks back up with the Buena Vista Social itself was well contained, and each tent However, that’s not to say they have lost raw, strained edge, the riffs and melodies four albums to the more Floyd-influenced CClub, a band made up of mainly was within quick walking distance from their sense of fun or the ability to pull people are still as catchy, and the sense of fun is (effortlessly deserving in comparison) octogenarian Cuban musicians in order each other (a godsend, as I had to run onto the dancefloor, first single ‘Brianstorm’ still there. But the boys have grown up, sounds that were ripped into the millennium to create an album for climate change from Arcade Fire to LCD Soundsystem to being perfect proof of this. Everything on and so have their talents as musicians. by a more band-orientated sound. With awareness. What this means in practice ensure a decent spot). The atmosphere was the album feels slightly more polished and Technically, the album is far more complex track ‘Anesthetize’ weighing in at 17.42 is modern tunes that we’re all familiar ridiculously friendly, without the need to thought through, and although some fans than the previous two; thumping beats minutes, this is a record for those who can with, getting put to a Cuban beat, as well resort to alcohol, which was too expensive may see this as the band losing their raw and pulsating, distorted bass lines feature look beyond 3 minutes of the safe music that as classic songs translated into Spanish, and rubbish to drink regardless. And all edge, it is testament to how much they have throughout the album – particularly in promises not to encourage anything new to all wrapped up in an environmentally of it was set in one of the most beautiful learnt over a relatively short period of time. ‘My Party’ and ‘Mcfearless’. ignite in your heart, and delve into the cool friendly package. environments I’ve ever seen a festival held Favourite Worst Nightmare is a veritable This album won’t immediately grab freshness of Porcupine Tree’s secret art. Strange as it may seem, but the Arctic in, every day affording a wonderful view. smorgasbord of indie hits, with tracks such you. Give it a week. Two weeks. As long This is not the raping of the senses that Monkeys do in fact translate surprisingly Overall, if the lineup is as good as it was as ‘This House is a Circus’ and ‘Fluorescent as it takes – but eventually it will grow on falls clumsily from the instruments of so well when put to a Cuban beat, with this year (http://www.coachella.com to see Adolescent’ sure to instigate dancefloor you. As a certain fictional barman once many fleeting bands that lurk around every Rhythm Del Mundo’s version of ‘Dancing who was playing this year), I may well pay hysteria in the future, whilst ‘Do Me a said: “Change ain’t lookin’ for friends. corner of the current music world. This is an Shoes’. Jack Johnson’s ‘Better Together’ another visit. Favour’ and ‘505’ demonstrate a more subtle Change calls the tune we dance to” – and intelligent and subtle take over. Prepare to however doesn’t fair so well, but the However, I was only truly there for and understated side to the album. Though I’m dancing. be seduced by Porcupine Tree…yet again. rest of the album more than makes up one band. And boy was it worth it. I’ve perhaps not as instantly accessible as their for it. There’s a stirring Spanish version never experienced a more electric crowd, first offering, the album does warrant Edward ‘Coach’ of ‘Killing Me Softly’ as well as U2’s ‘I brimming with anticipation before I saw repeated listenings, each one revealing a Rogers Mike. E. Sheppard. Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking these guys. Opening with Testify, the crowd little more than the last. For’. Other modern classics, such as literally exploded, with no end to the mosh With Sheffield bands seemingly ten-a- Radiohead’s ‘High and Dry’ get the Cuban pit in sight. Zack, looking a bit aged in all penny these days, it would have been all treatment, as well as Franz Ferdinand’s fairness, looked as though he was having too easy for the Arctic Monkeys to slip into ‘Matinee’. the time of his life. They blasted through mediocrity and disappear under the radar. Other tracks include songs with classics such as Guerilla Radio, Bulls on However, they have proved that they are a climate change message, such as Parade, Bombtrack, Wake Up (which not merely a flash in the proverbial pan, ‘Fragilidad’, sung in Spanish and outlining afforded Zack a moment to reflect on the and have shown bands such as Razorlight the fate the world if climate change Bush administration) and closed with the how to properly produce a second album. continues. A highlight for any Buena Vista always incendiary Killing in the Name Of. With the superbly executed Favourite Worst fan is a version of ‘As Time Goes By’ sung Coupled with the atmosphere, the beautiful Nightmare, the Arctic Monkeys have boldly here by the late, great Ibrahim Ferrer, a setting, and the feeling that we were part of conceived one of the defining albums of the founding member of the band. Whether one incredible night, it easily added up to new era of Britpop. it’s hearing some of your favourite songs the most amazing hour of music I have ever done a bit differently, or you love Latino witnessed. Welcome back Rage, we have Chris Thomson beats, Rhythms Del Mundo is something missed you. very appealing and a little bit different. Ian Davies Kings of Leon - A Royal Offering Emma Dodd Seren - End of Year Issue 2007 15

Bangor University’s Star Publication

SFestivalER GuideE 2007N Glastonbury Carling Weekend: Reading and Leeds McFly - What is the one on the right doing? Friday 22nd – Sunday 24th June Friday 24th – Sunday 27th August Caught Live: Arctic Monkeys Razorlight Festival Kasabian Kings of Leon McFly @ Bjork Interpol Survival The Killers Red Hot Chili Peppers Venue Cymru, Shirley Bassey Arcade Fire Guide The Who Bloc Party Llandudno s st ud e nts I’m s ur e many o f y ou ar e Kaiser Chiefs Fall Out Boy r egular f esti val-g oe r s and d o n’ t gi v e Babyshambles Smashing Pumpkins 23/04/07 a sec o nd thought t o the d os and rd A Arcade Fire Nine Inch Nails n 23 of April, chart-topping band d o n’ ts o f f esti val s urvi val. Ho w ev e r, it is McFly brought their ‘Up Close and v e ry impo rtant that y ou g o full y p r e par ed, Chemical Brothers The View OPersonal’ Tour to Venue Cymru in especiall y f o r those f esti val virgins amo ng Hot Chip Klaxons Llandudno. As a big fan, I was eager to go, y ou. The r e is nothing w o r se than g etting The Fratellis CSS but it took the offer of four free front-row y our self all g ear ed up and e xcit ed j ust t o Jamie T tickets to convince three of my friends to r ealise whe n y ou g et the r e that y ou ha v e Lily Allen accompany me. f o rg ott e n a load o f vital kit. F o rt unat el y, As support acts go, it didn’t sound very help is at hand with the Se r e n F esti val promising. Lil’ Chris (aka Chris Hardman G uid e™. Download of ‘Rock School’ fame) isn’t someone any P r es umab l y y ou ha v e book ed y our tic k ets V Festival of us would normally listen to, but he was th th f o r y our f esti val/s o f c ho ic e, b u t what abou t Saturday 18th – Sunday 19th August Friday 8 – Sunday 10 June surprisingly entertaining, even though it act uall y g etting the r e? I f y ou ar e tra v elling was slightly disturbing to hear someone who b y car the n mak e s ur e y ou ha v e the r elati v e The Killers My Chemical Romance is barely legal themselves asking 14 year-olds car parking pe rmits as withou t the m y ou Kasabian Velvet Revolver if they are ‘Gettin’ Enough’. c ould be r e fused e ntry. A n e xc elle nt wa y Wolfmother McFly were on top form. They opened Foo Fighters o f g etting t o and fr o m the f esti val is b y Linkin Park with their latest single, ‘Friday Night’ and o rganised c oac h tra v el. C hec k with Natio nal Snow Patrol went straight into a number of songs from E xp r ess c oac hes t o see if the r e is o ne fr o m Pink Marilyn Manson their most recent Motion In The Ocean y our ho met o wn. Kanye West Slayer album, including the #1 hits ‘Please Please’ I f possib le tak e as m uc h f ood and drink Iron Maiden and ‘Star Girl’. From our seats (which were Manic Street Preachers with y ou as y ou can t o a v o id pa ying the Evanescense practically ON the stage), it was clear that all f esti val p ric es. You can pa y up t o a c ouple Lily Allen four boys were really enjoying themselves, o f q uid j ust f o r a bottle o f wat e r and Mika Stone Sour and this came across in their banter between y ou’r e looking at least a fiv e r f o r any so rt Basement Jaxx Korn songs, as they spent most of the time o f f ood. The f ood in g e ne ral is fairl y g ood Motley Crue winding each other up and mocking each Amy Winehouse q uality, ranging fr o m b urrit os t o Yo rkshir e Porcupine Tree other for making mistakes during songs. puddings. Ho w ev e r, be warned, glass bottles The Fray Although occasionally their comments were ar e not pe rmitt ed at any time and will be Jarvis Cocker Dream Theatre slightly inappropriate considering there Reel Big Fish c o nfiscat ed. Dizzee Rascal were younger children in the audience, us 20 I t ’s amazing ho w many immaculat el y -year-olds were very amused. They rounded dr essed girls y ou see at f esti vals with pe rf ect Festival Internacional off a great set with new single ‘Transylvania’ hair and mak e-up. So what is the ir secr et? (out now), and old favourite, ‘Five Colours Gas-po w e r ed hair straight e ne r s ar e the T in the park de Benicassim In Her Hair’. Surprisingly, the highlight of answ e r f o r those who can’ t li v e withou t Thursday 19 the evening was Lil’ Chris joining them on Friday 6th – Sunday 8th July the ir GHDs, and ap pl y mak e-up sparingl y th – Sunday 22 stage to perform a cover of ‘Fight For Your Wakestock th as y ou’r e lik el y t o g et mo r e than a little Arctic Monkeys st July – Right’. Friday 20 Arctic Monkeysnd sw eaty. You can al wa y s nip bac k t o the Bloc Party July Despite their previous two tours both campsit e if nec essary. R olling y our c lothes Muse taking place in Arena venues, the energy in The Killers Saturday 21 rathe r than f olding the m is also a gr eat wa y Human League the rather tiny Venue Cymru was brilliant. t o g et that straight o ff the hang e r look. A nd Razorlight The Bravery All in all, a bloody fantastic evening. I most impo rtantl y, be p r e par ed! Pac k y our James Morrison Dirty Pretty Things think my friends may have been converted. s uncr eam as w ell as y our w ellies and ano rak Snow Patrol Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly Result! as w e all kno w ho w unp r edictab le the B ritish Scissor Sisters Loran Perkins w eathe r can be. Isle of Wight L ocatio n. L ocatio n. L ocatio n. Whe r e y ou Kings of Leon Friday 8th – Adieu! pit c h y our t e nt is mo r e impo rtant than y ou Avril Lavigne Creamfields ell that ’s it. This is my last ev e r think. I f y ou lik e a g ood night ’s slee p the n The Kooks Sunday 10th June d o not camp ne xt t o the danc e t e nt, and try m usic pag e as I shall be lea ving My Chemical Romance Muse Saturday 25th A ugust this s umme r ho pe full y t o g o o n and a v o id camping at the bott o m o f a hill, W as y ou will e nd up slee ping in a puddle. Queens of the Stone Age t o b igg e r and bett e r things. A b ig thank y ou The Rolling Stones Chemical Brothers t o ev e ry o ne who has c o ntrib u t ed o v e r the M ak e frie nds with y our ne ighbour s. I f Sinead O’Connor Snow Patrol Groove Armada past y ear, withou t y ou it w ould not ha v e bee n y ou g et o n w ell with the m the n it can r eall y Brian Wilson e nhanc e y our w eek e nd. Ho w ev e r, g et o ff LCD Soundsystem possib le. Well that ’s a lie, it w ould ha v e bee n Kasabian b u t I w ould ha v e had a lot mo r e w o rk t o d o. o n the wr o ng f oot and e xpect a w eek e nd We ha v e n’ t al wa y s see n ey e t o ey e, y ou and o f hostility. I. A lthough a lot o f y ou didn’ t lik e my Lil y Finall y, f esti val t o ilets ar e simpl y ho rrific. A lle n r evie w and my grasp o f Re naissanc e Unf o rt unat el y the r e is nothing y ou can d o c o mpose r s ap par e ntl y lea v es a lot t o be abou t it so simpl y grin and bear it. Just d esir ed, I f eel I ha v e d o ne an ad eq uat e jo b in mak e s ur e y ou ha v e ple nty o f loo r oll. k ee ping y ou up t o dat e with the m usic sc e ne F ollo w these simple tips and y ou can’ t g o in Bang o r, as w ell as b ringing y ou r evie w s wr o ng. Se r e n wishes y ou all a hap p y f esti val o f the lat est alb ums. I shall be lea ving y our e xpe rie nc e! m usical needs in the capab le hands o f y our ne w Music Edit o r, M iss Emma Dixo n. She’s alright I guess. Emma Dixon and Chris Chris Thomson Thomson

16 Seren - End of Year Issue 2007 Seren’s Radio Times Storm Forecast [email protected] Bangor’s Student Sound 87.7FM MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

7am: Storm In A Tea Cup 7am: Sunday - Storm’s morning mainstream mix, Sessions with various hosts. Bangor’s Student Sound Non-stop music 9am: Bangor’s Student Sound - Non-stop music 9am: Sunday Service with the 11am: Storm Bites Christian Union Varying presenters with a mid-morning mix of music, including ‘The Votes’ on Mondays & Thursdays, and Ryan & Jack on Tuesdays. 12pm: 12pm: The Sunday The Roast 1pm: The S.U. Show Saturday mainstream music All the latest news, chat & happenings from your Sessions & chat. Students’ Union, hosted daily by various members of the Union’s Executive Committee.

2pm:

2pm: Music Through 2pm: Connections 2pm: The Big Mix Up 2pm: Welsh Show 2pm: Plektrum The Ages Friday Jones Claire Moor-Smith with with with & & Huw Parry Martyn & Rob Jon Gauaghan Sam Slater Valentina D’erico Claire Stapleton, Jack 2pm: The Back Pages Jack & The Other One Saturday sports show 4pm: Homeward with 4pm: Homeward Bound... 4pm: Homeward Spencer George, Bound... Jack Jack & Isa Wilson 4pm: The Classical Bound... Alex Lidell 4pm: Homeward 4pm: Homeward Show Huw & Tom and Bound... Bound... Pete & Jen hosts, Tom Lindsay The PJ Show Spencer’s Training with a Huw Parry (the man who loves the with Peter & Jack Show classical & ladies!) mix. Tom Lansley

6pm: The Time 6pm: Something 6pm: The Sunday Tunnel - Warm-up 6pm: Welsh Rock Borrowed, Something 6pm: Sioe Laura Forum - Storm’s news for Time/Amser, with 6pm: The Text Session Huw Parry Blue - Eclectic mix of old Laura Parry team with political chat. Spencer, Alex & Tom. Your txt requests with and brand spanking new. DJPJ, Claire Stapleton & Kayleigh Evans, 7pm: The Sound of the with 7pm: Society Slot AU the Facebook group A different society each 7pm: riddle of the week. A different club each The Helpdesk week. 7pm: Ultrasound 7pm: The Motel week. at New, classic & obscure with The Motel Indie with Storm’s head Alex Thomas with 8pm: The Forum of music, Sean Clement. & Sarah Clinton 8pm: Alternate 8pm: Solid Gold Soul Alex Thomas John Jackson hosts Unsigned/unknown 8pm: Best in northern Motown & Sarah Clinton. the debating panel Local/National/ & funky soul, show, International Bands. with Will Geldart. with ‘Your Forum’. 9pm:

9pm: Café Americana 9pm: LIVE Lounge 9pm: The Jazz Show 9pm: Sin Roc Trash DJ Holly with 9pm: No Added Sugar & Something A Bit with Gymraeg - mainstream alternate music from Different- Live bands Pre-Trash warm-up with Jack Baker music & entertainment across the pond. Tom Giddings in-studio & Keira Ring.

10pm: 10pm: WelshBoy 10pm: Ed and Bob Rap Show Show with David Pallant & Jack Non-stop music Mike Walsh 10pm: The Green (Mancunians & Underground music) with ‘The Weird 10pm: The Dead Air & his 10pm: Gary Brown Colonel Kirkham’s Weekly’ & a film quiz. Show! protegé Drum ‘n’ bass Pimpasaurus LIVE ????????????? dance mix.

11pm: The Sounds of 11pm: My Hood 11pm: The Parry Show Gray coming soon... Interested in radio? Want to get involved? Join the Storm FM team and get your voice heard. Or not!! It’s not just presenting - you could work in marketing, news, production, I.T. and much more. Contact Storm today... E-mail - [email protected] Phone - 01248 38 8048 (or 8048 internally) Txt - storm + msg to Compiled60300 by John Jackson Seren - End of Year Issue 2007 17 UZZLEs, The prize puzzle this issue is the End-Of-Year Wordoku (below). E-mail your answer to [email protected] or cut it out and osers & hand it in at the Students’ Union reception, marked “Seren”. Don’t roblems forget to put your name, tel no. and Uni e-mail address with your P completed entry! Winners will be selected at random from the correct IMAGEinative entries and fantabulous prizes will be awarded by 08/06/07. FACTive 6 1 Just for fun... The holes under the chocolate and caramel layer on a TWIX are 3 2 7 9 placed in the cookie-biscuit to allow Sudoku the chocolate to contract without 2 6 9 8 cracking, and also to prevent expansion of the cookie during 4 8 7 baking. 2 6 9 9 4 5 General 7 3 8 6 Knowledge 6 1 2 3 1 IMAGEinative inQUIZitive Cryptic Football 1. Which coloured ball is closest to the E O Y A E Using the triangle of reds at the start of a game of What’s Up Doc? snooker? E O cryptic clues Who are the famous 2. What is the name of Emily Bishop’s given below, doctors, and current lodger in Coronation Street? A E N work out the which film or TV 3. What is the title of Star Wars: Episode programme are they II? R N names of from? 4. What were the first names of the the British Everly Brothers? O Y E E D football team 5. How many players are there in a names... cricket team? N D 6. How many and which colours are E.g. “Latest fort merged” found on the Welsh flag? Wordoku F R O = Newcastle United 7. By which process to plants convert light into energy? A R 1. Glass mansion? 8. Which monkey is the loudest land 2. Wild dogs? animal? “END-OF-YEAR” O E E A F 3. Steel city day? 9. What is archontology the study of? 10. Which African country only shares Same rules as number Sudoku, but the letters from 4. Cattle cars together? land borders with Western Sahara and “END OF YEAR” are in place of the numbers 1 to 9. 5. Heavy-weight toilet? Algeria? Note though that there are 2 ‘E’s !!! 6. Organ of small lake? 11. Which three nations won the football 7. What children might say World Cup in the 1990s? 12. Which Asian country is bordered after parent’s illness? by China to its north, and Laos and FACTive2 FACTive3 8. Royal leisure area Cambodia to its west? The “Ig-Nobel Prizes” are a “Toadfish” is not just the guardians? 13. Which fully grown adult cat weighs parody of the Nobel Prizes nickname of Jarrod Rebecchi 9. Always weight? more on average, the cheetah or the black that are awarded annually. in the Australian soap opera panther? In 2000, the “Ig-Nobel Prize for Neighbours! 10. Sound of a prison clock? 14. Who was the first actor to portray the Public Health” was awarded They are ray-finned fishes 11. Smashes things up? character of the Doctor in Doctor Who (whose colourings resemble on TV? to 3 doctors from the Glasgow 12. Dirty water? Western Infirmary for a case that of toads), found on the 13. Where Wombles met 15. How many eyes does a spider have? 16. What are the 3 ‘earth’ signs of the report they had prepared on mud-bottoms of coastal waters McEnroe? zodiac? “wounds sustained to the buttocks all around the world. Several 14. Cotton factory barrier? 17. Which metal is used to galvanise by collapsing toilets”! species are also venomous. 15. Professor of rollers? steel? 16. Tardy on the Far East? 18. What name is given to a meteorological front that is neither 17. Needed to live? significantly cold nor warm? 18. Bond parked outside 19. What gift was given on the 7th day Spanish mansion? of Christmas, according to the famous 19. Male meadow? song? 20. What are the cheapest and the most 20. Naked light of candle? expensive properties in standard London

Compiled by John Jackson Monopoly?

10. of State (E.g. monarch/bishop/dictator); monarch/bishop/dictator); (E.g. State of Powers.

Study of Important Offices Offices Important of Study 9. Howler monkey; monkey; Howler 8. Dr Evil - Austin Austin - Evil Dr 10. this issue:- Comics; Spiderman/Marvel

Photosynthesis; Photosynthesis; 7. Black (outline of the dragon); dragon); the of (outline Black Dr Octopus - - Octopus Dr 9. Banner - Incredible Hulk; Hulk; Incredible - Banner

4 1 8 7 3 6 5 9 EXPOSEitive 2

4 - White, Green, Red & & Red Green, White, - 4 6. 11; 11; 5. Don & Phil; Phil; & Don 4.

Dr David Bruce Bruce David Dr 8. Beckett - Quantum Leap; Leap; Quantum - Beckett

3 7 2 5 9 1 8 6

last issue:- 4

retrograde... Attack of the Clones; Clones; the of Attack 3. Norris Cole; Cole; Norris 2. Pink; Pink; 1. Dr Sam Sam Dr 7. Dr Chris Steele - This Morning; Morning; This - Steele Chris Dr 6.

6 9 5 8 2 4 3 7 1

state of life which is not progressive is dead or or dead is progressive not is which life of state : inQUIZitive

Dr Karl Kennedy - Neighbours; Neighbours; - Kennedy Karl Dr 5.

E S A E T R A Y D ME; Quincy

most comprehensive indivuality; therefore, every every therefore, indivuality; comprehensive most

Berwick. 5 8 6 2 4 3 9 1 7 Dr Dr 4. Dr Who (Colin Baker); Baker); (Colin Who Dr 3.

E Y D S A A T E R Show; Muppet

The purpose of life is to produce the highest and and highest the produce to is life of purpose The

20. Mansfield; Mansfield; 19. Aston Villa; Villa; Aston 18. Ayr or Hearts; Hearts; or Ayr

Dr Teeth - The The - Teeth Dr 2. Dr Bones McCoy - Star Trek; Trek; Star - McCoy Bones Dr 1.

1 4 9 6 7 5 2 8

Wordoku R A T E D Y S E A 3

17. Leyton Orient; Orient; Leyton 16. Doncaster; Doncaster; 15. Millwall; Millwall; What’s Up Doc?: Up What’s - - IMAGEinative

7 2 3 1 8 9 4 5

“EASTER- 6

Old Kent Road & Mayfair. & Road Kent Old 20.

14. Wimbledon; Wimbledon; 13. Blackpool; Blackpool; 12. S E Y A E D R A T Wrexham; Mr Strong. Mr 15. Mr Nonsense; Nonsense; Mr 14.

8 3 4 9 1 7 6 2 5 Seven swans-a-swimming; swans-a-swimming; Seven 19. Occluded front; front; Occluded

11. Celtic; Celtic; 10. Everton; Everton; 9. DAY” (QPR); Rangers Mr Greedy; Greedy; Mr 13. Mr Impossible; Impossible; Mr 12. A T R Y E A D S E Messy; Mr

18. Zinc; Zinc; 17. Taurus, Virgo & Capricorn; Capricorn; & Virgo Taurus, 16. Queens Park Park Queens 8. Motherwell; Motherwell; 7. Liverpool; Liverpool;

11. Mr Forgetful; Forgetful; Mr 10. Mr Nosy; Nosy; Mr 9. Mr Tickle; Tickle; Mr 8.

9 5 7 4 6 2 1 3 answers D A E R S T Y A E 8

8 - one at the top of each leg; leg; each of top the at one - 8 15. Hartnell; Hartnell;

6. Luton; Luton; 5. Oxford United; United; Oxford 4. Wednesday; Wednesday; Mr Small; Small; Mr 7. Mr Happy; Happy; Mr 6. Mr Noisy; Noisy; Mr 5. Grumpy; Grumpy;

2 6 1 3 5 8 7 4 Y D S A R E E T A 9

William William 14. Black Panther; Panther; Black 13. Vietnam; Vietnam; 12. Sheffield Sheffield 3. Wolves; Wolves; 2. Crystal Palace; Palace; Crystal 1. Mr Mr 4. Mr Bump; Bump; Mr 3. Mr Rush; Rush; Mr 2. Mr Funny; Funny; Mr

A R A T Y E E D S 1.

Sudoku - Just for Fun... for Just - Sudoku France, Brazil and West Germany; Germany; West and Brazil France, 11. Morocco; Morocco;

: Cryptic Football Cryptic

Mr Men?: Mr - - T E E D A S A R Y IMAGEinative 18 Seren - End of Year Issue 2007 Rugby League roundup Mountaineers tackle Tom Hughes who threw all of his nineteen Staffordshire stone bulk in midfield. Matt Davies left University 24-26 the field concussed after a brave tackle and Temple produced a try-saving tackle in the Scottish highlands Bangor University dying moments, forcing a knock on in the supermarket, all of which are exhilarating tour (made so by the ample free angor once again played heroically process. obviously essential for a week samplers), the team headed back for a meal to pull off a remarkable win against The final minutes saw both teams away. After a 40 minute walk at the local pub and pool competitions with BStaffordshire. A nightmare start, lose possession cheaply which pointed out through a neighbouring golf the locals. similar to the one against Manchester in Staffordshire’s desperation but also Bangor’s course, all their troubles were Two groups went into the peaks on November, saw Bangor concede two tries in inexperience when defending a lead. solved however, and their hike Thursday, one of them taking on the the first five minutes. On paper it looked as Team Captain James Fleming, close to for necessities certainly proved challenging prospect of six peaks, four if the match was already slipping away. tears at the final whistle, said that he was to be quite fitting considering the of them being Munros. The other group However, for Staffordshire, the proud of everybody’s performance and was nature of the club. After a good climbed the third Munro. After a hard danger signs were already appearing. looking forward to the next round. night’s sleep, the team was fully days walking the team took a well earned They continuously lost possession due to Bangor will only be losing one player prepared for their first climb of rest, before travelling back via Glasgow the tough Bangor tackling and their own poor next year: the excellent Joe Smith who has the week. It was to handling under pressure. Aled Williams, never missed a game for the club during be the relatively low playing a superb game on Bangor’s left wing, his three years at the University. With next peak of Faragorn, began the reply by scoring his first try for the year’s freshers to boost the team further, it’s club under the posts, collecting a long pass looking to be another successful season. he Mountain Walking Club recently that boasted quite an impressive distance and bog- from Tom Bradfield after the stand off’s left the Welsh valleys behind and powerful run to race in from 45 metres. Bangor versus departed for the Scottish highlands jumping to boost. The wildlife T was also rather impressive in In a see-saw game the lead changed and beautifully scenery of Aberfeldy. The the form of vast herds of deer hands more than once and, even after Loughborough A town is situated at a bend of the mighty Bradfield’s two impressive tries from far After only being behind 16-12 at half River Tay (the UK’s largest) and 5km down and big yellow toad. The next day held host to a far more out and John Wilkins’s show of strength to time, Bangor let Loughborough run away stream from Loch Tay. “Seventeen members squeeze in the corner, Bangor were behind with the match in the second half as they of the club, all of whom share a common gruelling challenge, taking on the first two Munros (a mountain 24-22 early in the second half. scored five unanswered tries. However the love for walks and mountains, endless A gale force wind made conversions hard determined rugby played by Bangor in horizons of adventure and exploration; not characterized by a) being in Scotland, and b) being at least difficult, as Staffordshire’s kicker found out the first half clearly rattled the visitors and to mention dedicated photo-snap shooters in the first half, missing three attempts at this type of team work will build a definite of moments that dominate the memory for 3000 feet and c) having a certain amount of drop-off between it and the next next day. goal. Luckily Jamie Temple had remembered title contending side for next season’s BUSA years, went on a trip to Aberfeldy, Scotland The week (which has become something to bring his kicking boots for Bangor as he competition. Try scorers for Bangor were a couple of weeks ago. Walking some one (i.e they must be quite distinct from one another as hills). The snow on the mountains of a tradition within the club) was an succeeded with three conversions at the James Fleming, Tom Bradfield and Danny mysteriously wild, beautifully spread and obvious success, and the reports from it other end. Will Varley took Bangor into Wright. generously offered to the world ranges and seemed to be the most pleasurable (if not distracting) aspect of the hike, at really emphasised what a good week it was. the lead, beating the full back on his way to With only friendlies left to play, the points becoming meters deep. By Check out the club’s impressive the line after a determined run from Danny team look to set up matches against Chester the time they reached the top of website for all other blogs and news at Wright had put the centre clear. University, Aberwystryth University, Bangor City and the much anticipated Bangor Benn Lawers the sun was shining www.umwc.org.uk With twenty-five minutes left at and the clouds were well below this point, the game turned into a battle. University Rugby Union Team them. The beautiful scenery was Staffordshire desperately needed the ball Jack Peat but when they did have possession they were of course reason for celebration, Will Varley and how better to celebrate at the Adam Pearce hit by a ferocious defence, especially from top of a mountain then build an Igloo and a snow-hole, as well as taking the time Cricket season to slide around the peak before starting the decent. The team took peaks was the objective.” commences Wednesday as time to recuperate angor’s cricket season got off to a matches that will considerably stregnthen After an eventful journey to the northern and explore the lower lands successful start to the season after their league position location, managing to crash both the of the highlands. After a brief dismissing Liverpool University 2nd The team who have been in training vehicles into each other, they arrived at B walk through the nearby forest, team for a mere 116 runs. They triumphed at Normal Site since before Easter, have their destination to discover a picturesque they visited Aberfeldy World of by 124 after they notched up an impressive Manchester and Huddersfield to play away, bunkhouse, with all they could ever wish Whisky, where is distilled the 240 all out in their first match of the and will play host to Salford on 13th May. for apart from any sign of a pub, bank, or famous Dawer’s Whisky. After a summer. They previously lost to Manchester The team plays at Bangor City cricket narrowly, after been bowled out for 183. ground and any support would be welcomed Liverpool are currently top of the table, for a game that would make perfect drinking after beating both Salford and Huddersfield, conditions. both of whom Bangor have to face next. After the team’s comfortable victory over Bangor heads East Liverpool, they should be hoping to give Jack Peat a repeat performance in the remaining fter a full year of domestic sport best place to go for the beach, best sports reputation. As the students arrive into the various Bangor teams decided to venues, best clubs and bars and the best resort, they are welcomed with information Acap it off by entering tournaments reps and officials. On arrival to the resort packs, and given the chance to purchase in the heartland of sunny Europe. Joined by the clubs are welcomed by their reps, and wristbands that entitle them to free entry universities from around the UK, competing have the first night to relax, drink, and dress and drinks in the nightclubs throughout the in a vast amount of different sports, the audaciously for their first night’s fun. The week. They are then straight into their first teams headed to tournaments in Calella next morning the clubs participate in their night of frivolous audacity. The students (Spain) and Rimini (Italy). first day of sport, enjoying competition then depart to the sports facilities the next Festival Italia (Rimini) is located on the from clubs from around the UK that they day for the first day’s events, and in similar north east coast of Italy, and this year it held would not necessarily compete against style to the Italian festival, the games are host to both the Women’s Rugby team and in their domestic BUSA league. After the wrapped up with eventual victors the the Ultimate Frisbee team as well as 1500 day’s events are over, buses are on hand to following day (obviously separated by the other excitable students. The festival recently transfer students to Altro Mondo Studios night’s social affairs). The lucky winners added Ultimate Frisbee to its events and this nightclub, home to Europe’s largest laser of the set tournaments are rewarded with provided a unique chance for the up- and- show. The next day sees all the finals played a three course dinner and an exclusive VIP coming Bangor team to ‘strut their stuff’ out, and then, inevitably, back to the task of night. The following day is aside set for on foreign soil. Its attractions were obvious drinking, socialising and soaking the Italian either relaxing with volleyball and football from the start, with the frisbee tournament nightlife up to the max. All that is then left is on the beach in Calella, or taking the short being hosted on the warm Italian beach with the gruelling coach ride home, and the week train ride to Barcelona to check out its the soft sounds of the Adriatic Sea lapping at draws to a conclusion, where the students, sights. miles of beautiful golden coast in the gentle (and often their memories) depart sunny Both tours have become something of a spring breeze. “Rimini-bathed in glorious Italy for colder climates. tradition within the participating clubs, and sunshine was a massive success with Calella played host to the other three they certainly play a noteworthy role in their Ultimate Frisbee hogging the limelight” teams departing for tour. The Men’s Rugby social life. Although clubs are often reluctant (as quoted in the recent newspaper). As Union, Netball and the Dance team all to reveal the events of tour, abiding by the a relatively new sport, it also allowed the headed to the south east coast of Spain to age old “whatever goes on tour, stays on team to play universities from around the enjoy the sizzling hot weather. Described as tour” motto, the reaction from their week country. The Women’s Rugby team joined “an extension of the events that were packed away is certainly positive and to them it the Frisbee team, after having a successful into your introduction to student life,” it is seems to play a momentous role within their tournament in Rimini in 2006, they decided set in the fantastic beach resort of Calella lives at university and their time within their to make it a traditional getaway for the team. (near Barcelona), with each night lined with sports teams. The festival, that took place between the entertainment and specialist DJs that set Jack Peat 9th to the 15th April, maintain that it’s the the tone for CalellaFest’s unrivalled social Seren - End of Year Issue 2007 19 End of year review Sport fter many months of competing, the sporting season came to a close Afor most of Bangor’s Athletic Union clubs and sporting teams. After the awards dinner, Athletic Union President Andrew Bangor sports teams compete in crazy sports day Redfearn took the time to reflect on the years events and the progress of the AU and n Sunday 29th April the Athletics discussions, some competitors managed to For those speed demons out there, the bladder, the original rugby ball. Golf is the Bangor sports. club held their Crazy Sports throw the welly further behind them than current world record for 500m course on a only sport ever played on the moon - on 6th He believes it has been a good year for ODay in aid of the North West they did in front, and this was met with windsurf is 48.70 knots, that’s 56 miles per February 1971 Alan Shepard hit a golf ball. Bangor, especially for smaller clubs, as is Cancer Research Fund Institute, a centre many laughs. hour! However, spiking is volleyball’s most Last but not least, since the beginning of reflected by the many awards been taken of excellence for molecular cancer studies The three-legged race was also quite dramatic and offensive manoeuvre, with the modern Olympic games, only Greece by our once smaller clubs. This seems to located within the School of Biological strategic, although at one point two ball speeds reaching about 100 mph. Faster and Australia have competed in every single be a good way forward, and when we’re so Sciences at the university. members of the sub-Aqua team seemed to still, a badminton shuttle easily travels at one! isolated here in our part of North Wales, its It was perfect weather for the event with a result to crawling to try and get themselves 112 mph! Now the Sports Day wasn’t the Olympics nice to see some high class athletes coming great turn out! Special thanks go to rowing, over the line. Unfortunately this was to no The flea can jump up to 350 times its but people are already talking about training out of the network. Tennis have had a fencing, sub-Aqua team, women’s rugby, avail as Amnesty just beat athletics to the body length. For a human, that would for next year! The day was a complete good season and we will be entering both rugby league and Amnesty for providing line to finish in first, with the dive team be equivalent to jumping the length of a success raising just over £140 for the North Men’s and Women’s teams into BUSA next such enthusiastic people to make up the eventually bringing up the rear in style. football field! In basketball, dribbling only West Cancer Research Fund Institute, much year. In a time when their facility has been teams! Other events included the traditional egg became a major part of the game around needed money for this very worthy cause… taken for the Ffriddoedd development, it is Various events were held throughout the and spoon race, wheelbarrow races, skipping the 1950s as manufacturing improved the watch this space! nice to have a club carry on regardless, and afternoon with fierce competition as each races, and many more. ball shape. On that note, it is often cited overcoming adversity and getting on with it. team strived to be crowned Crazy Sports But this isn’t the only club with some that rugby balls are oval shaped because that Golf has been resurrected in the past years Day Champions. The shouting and cheering crazy facts to its name! was the natural shape of a distended pigs Rob Samuel and, led by Matt and Daniel, has gone on to from each team told the story – everyone Archery for example; apparently in compete well in BUSA. While their results one was having fun, but secretly, all wanted Chester you can only shoot a Welsh person barely do them justice, they have had the will to win! At one point the Athletics team even with a bow and arrow inside the city walls and drive to succeed and we wish them the made an informal complaint towards the and after midnight. Also, the first hockey best for the 2007-08 season. BUMS, again, Rowers for fielding the same person twice puck ever used was a frozen piece of cow have outdone themselves. Led by Theo they in the same event. This added to the fun and poo and a ‘face-off’ in hockey was originally went to BUSA and brought us back second rivalry between the two teams, with each called a ‘puck-off’. place. Riding have also done well this year, team being great sports! If you hear a rower bellow that he caught and are able to enter two teams into BUSA Eventual winners by the margin of only a crab, they aren’t talking about marine next year, their success is certainly inspiring three points over the athletics club were life or an undesirable social disease. When considering the bigger universities that they the Rowing team. They were very worthy the oarblade enters the water at an angle, compete against. Canoe Polo have shown winners, with each member receiving a it can get caught beneath the surface. The tremendous gusto also, with travelling printed mug kindly donated by Blue Room oarblade drives into the stomach, and has not on their sides, the finances a problem Promotions (www.blueroompromotions.co. the potential to toss the rower out of the and being the underdogs at many of the uk). Other prizes donated by local businesses boat and into the water! tournaments they enter could certainly have were also given out for good performance in For those tennis buffs amongst you, held the club back, however they have shown various events. 24 tons of succulent Kent strawberries tremendous fighting spirit throughout their Of all the events, welly wanging was are ordered for The Championships at year and indeed since their foundation, particularly close, with many tactics being Wimbledon each year! achieving success that will surely be taken used to ensure the welly was thrown as far as The origins of the frisbee flying disc are through to the future years. possible. Debates within teams were centred in New Haven Connecticut (USA) where around whether heel first or toe first would long ago, people began tossing and catching Jack Peat yield the best results. Even with these heated the pie tins from the Frisbie Pie Company. Athletic Union recognise sporting acheivement fter a year filled with physical in her category, she has been North Wales place in his category at BUSA and is on The Athletics Club have been entering with the clubs members. She draws a fine attainment, emerging diversity and champion in both 2005 and 2006 and the UK level 6 sponsored canoe team. The and achieving good performances in example of outstanding sportswomanship. Acontroversy on and off the field, over the summer she represented North final blues award of the year went to Rugby many events, sending a big contingent to Her competition performance is excellent this years sporting events finally boil down Wales shooting out of her category. The League member Joseph Smith. Joseph BUSA and achieving impressive results. too and by her captain, she has been referred to the AU dinner; where the university takes second went to the Athletics Captain Rob played every competitive game since his The Women’s Badminton Team were the to as ‘one of the best archers this university its place in recognising the personalities and Samuel, who has had an excellent season. clubs beginning and since arriving here in next to receive an award for the Team of has ever seen and will see for quite a while’. teams that have excelled in their sporting His performance placed him in the top Bangor three years ago he has been a large the Year. The team have trained hard and The Sportsman of the Year was the final AU fields. The prestigious event is to many five of nearly every race he entered, his part of the team and has done a lot to aid played even harder. They won 5 out of 7 award. For his outstanding performance teams the highlight of the year, where all commitment and drive are second to none. the clubs progression over the years. He has BUSA league matches placing themselves at while representing Bangor at high level their hard work and effort is rewarded, On top of this, he successfully led the largest been selected to play for Scotland, he’s been the top of their group, pushing themselves competition and for sportsmanship during and an outlook for next year can be cast. To Athletics team Bangor has sent to BUSA in selected to play for Great Britain, and he’s through to the knockouts. In the knockouts his time at Bangor, the award went to Rob many of the sportsmen and women leaving recent years and his personal results there scored a try at international level. they performed well but in the end they Samuel. In his years at the University, the University, it also plays host to their final unfortunately lost out at the university finals he has been instrumental in expanding night in a team that surely played such a in a close match against Sheffield. The Club and developing his club, organising their pivotal role in their university experience. of the Year was the subsequent award to be training and always encouraging his fellow The awards are unique in that they aren’t given. It is awarded to the club that excels sportspeople. His personal performances specifically designed to honour the clubs in any of the following areas: recruitment have been of the highest standard setting the that have won the most matches. They also and retention of members, excellence in benchmark of what he expects and always don’t necessarily outline those who have training members, excellence in managing pushing himself to develop. With the aid of tallied the most points. Moreover, they are the clubs activities, excellence in socials his committee, he organised an event for all designed to credit those who have shown and fundraising and/ or high results in their students of Bangor, encouraging them to get commitment to their sport, outstanding relevant competition. The Fencing Club have out and raise money for charity. effort and achieving high levels of ticked nearly every box, their membership is The last award of the night was a participation. To many of the clubs that have at a high, being one of our smallest clubs in personal award presented by the Athletic spent the year building on their foundations, previous years it now has over 40 members. Union President. It is for the contribution to creating a buoyant team and in many cases The training of their members is excellent, sport and for overall outstanding service to significantly building on their team of old, with a dedicated coach and skilled members, the AU and its members over the year. The it is just reward for their outstanding effort. they’ve been training their new recruits and last minute decision went to the Rowing Andrew ‘Frodo’ Redfearn, the Athletic Union less experienced members to competition Club. The club has expanded a lot, their President who has spent the last year dealing level. Fundraising, with some cheeky sales participation is on the up and they are now with and monitoring all the clubs within the and hosting competitions, they’ve raked flourishing. They have consistently badgered AU, has dealt with both the highs and the in the money allowing themselves to the AU President and constantly raised the lows of the Bangor University sports. His update much of their old kit and they are issues that really mattered to them, and their job as the Au President is surely made much now ready for next year’s intake. The two efforts have paid off. Extensive work has easier by those clubs who maintain good remaining awards presented by the AU were been carried out this year and more is due club moral, and those clubs who endeavour the Sportsman and Sportswomen of the over the summer. Led by two outstanding to push themselves forward. were exceptional, with him being chosen Preceding the Blues awards were the Year. The sportswoman was the first to be captains, Ed and Hannah, both of which will The first awards of the night were to race for the Welsh Universities. The third AU awards, decided upon and awarded by awarded, and this year it went to Elizabeth be missed next year, the award was given to decided upon by the Colours Committee, of the Blues awards went to Tom Laws, who Andrew Redfearn. The first of these to be York. Over her years in the AU, she has gone them for their constant hard work all year. who present the Blues awards, designed spent the year competing in a sport that is given out was the Spirit of the AU award. over and above what is expected of her, Jack Peat to recognise the AU members who have renowned for being non-competitive. His This is awarded to a club that has shown taking on extra jobs other than her role and excelled in their chosen field, playing at expertise and contribution to the club over outstanding effort and commitment. This ensuring that they get done. She has single Andrew Redfearn the highest level. The first of the four blues the years has been excellent, organising and year it went to one of our smaller clubs, handily organised trips, meals and events awards was presented to Archer: Elizabeth taking extended coaching sessions for the who have expanded over the recent years for her club and she is always on hand to York. Last year she won every competition members. This year he achieved second increasing their participation dramatically. share her expert advice and knowledge