Nominated for five Guardian Student Media Awards 2007 Autumn Term Week Three Tuesday 23 October 2007 www.nouse.co.uk NOUSE Est. 1964

YUSU accused of sexism Student and staff anger over ‘sexist’ goodie bags Matt Burton and Sam Bayley defend actions

By Anjli Raval or sexual identity”. DEPUTY EDITOR The initial proposal by Bayley and Burton to dis- tribute the bags was met YUSU HAS BEEN accused with vocal opposition from of sexism by national groups, several officers of the academic and administrative Students’ Union. The mat- staff and students during a ter was taken to the weekly controversy regarding the Union Executive meeting, gender-specific “goodie bags” on which all Union officers that were distributed at sit. Following a heated Freshers’ Fair. debate, the motion passed The bags, which were narrowly by seven votes to sourced from Complimen- five, with no abstentions. tary Sampling by Sam Speaking during the Bayley, Societies and meeting, Laura Payne, a Communications Officer, YUSU Women’s Officer and Matt Burton, Services said: “In our opinion, some and Finance Officer, were of the items in the bags, colour coded blue and pink such as the copy of FHM and read ‘Welcome from and the cellulite cream, are your Students’ Union’. The designed to enforce gender blue bags contained a sample stereotypes; they could copy of FHM (For Him potentially be detrimental Magazine), a chocolate bar to students’ welfare and the and a full-size tin of baked culture of equality we have beans. The pink bags con- here at the University.” tained cellulite cream, Matt Burton and Sam female deoderant, and a Bayley upheld that there half-size tin of baked beans. was no problem with the YUSU have claimed that the bags. Burton said: “Why do bags had no gender connota- we need to baby people? It’s tions. political correctness gone YUSU has received over mad. There are a lot of peo- 40 letters and emails of com- ple that would get a lot of plaint about the bags. In an Sam Bayley, YUSU Societies and Communications Officer, and Matt Burton, YUSU Services and Finance Officer pleasure out of these maga- email leaked to Nouse, the graphic and deeply contemp- welcome than they have tural, religious and gender Burge, former Women’s zines.” FHM has recently director of OBJECT, which tuous material to male stu- every right to expect.” grounds and quite possibly Officer, Meghan Reid from been reprimanded for pub- acts as an advisor to Amnesty dents reflects very poorly on Members of University offensive to some groups in the Centre for Women's lishing topless photos of a International UK, works the University, is totally staff have also spoken out the University community. Studies said: “This is 14-year-old girl without her with NUS and is a member counter to any equality com- against the bags. In an email We want the first impression absolutely ridiculous. This consent. of the Women's National mitments and plays its part to Nouse, the University’s of the University to be a wel- action seriously undermines The opposition by the Commission, criticised in contributing to an envi- Equal Opportunities Officer, coming one, not something the work the University and Women’s Officers was YUSU’s actions. Dr Sasha ronment where women - Yvie Holder, said, “the con- that makes some students YUSU do to maintain a high strongly supported by Rakoff said: “We feel YUSU's who can be as young as 17 - tents of the bags will have feel uneasy or offends them.” reputation and support our decision to promote porno- are, and feel, less safe and been inappropriate on cul- In an email to Amy students regardless of gender >> NEWS P2

Two York students Students taken to Prince of Persia: York launch BUSA sexually assaulted hospital from Club D Iran and the media rugby campaign Two female University of York stu- Ambulances were called to Club D The Middle East is often York’s Rugby Union team defeated dents have been sexually assaulted amidst fears of a repeat of last maligned in the media, but what Huddersfield to get their BUSA in separate incidents since the year’s drink-spiking spree. At least is life actually like for Iranian citi- campaign off to a victorious start beginning of term. In the first inci- four students went to hospital dur- zens? Nouse sends a reporter to for the first time in three years. dent, the victim and a friend were ing the event or shortly after. The find out the truth. He discovers a The match was hard fought, with followed by a man down Fulford incident has sparked a debate over region curiously at odds with the York forced to defend their lead Road and attacked. the effects of alcohol on campus. public’s perceptions right until the final whistle. NEWS >> P3 NEWS >> P4-5 MUSE >> M14 SPORT >> P20 NOUSE :THE UNIVERSITY OF YORK STUDENT NEWSPAPER 2 News Tuesday October 23 2007

Minibars removed SU officers accused of sexism from student rooms MINI-BARS WERE removed from the bedrooms of Freshers being accommo- over freshers’ bag distribution dated at Holiday Inn, Tadcaster Road for fear of further expenditure result- << CONTINUED from front ing a full tin of beans and a choco- ing from their stay there, which will late bar, yet those items weren’t already cost the University an estimat- Academic and Welfare Officer, included in our bags.” One male ed £30,000. According to Won Youn, Grace Fletcher-Hall and ex- student said of the controversy JCRC Chair of Langwith College, mini- Women’s Officer, Amy Burge who “some people need to be shipped bars were removed from the hotel also sat in on discussions at the off to the Third World. Then rooms of 47 new Langwith College res- open meeting on October 10. they’d have something worth idents, who were placed there as a Burge spoke out against the bags, complaining about.” result of the accommodation shortage. saying “they are not only sexist to Pallas will put forward a Managers of the Holiday Inn were women; they also assume that all motion regarding the bags at a unavailable for comment. One fresher male students are interested in Union General Meeting on said, “It was a strange way to start my viewing sexually explicit photo- Tuesday October 23. The motion, university experience but we had lots graphs of women, and completely which has been seconded by of fun, and we weren’t too bothered ignore gay men.” Environment and Ethics Officers, about the mini-bars.” Matthew Pallas, LGBT the Academic and Welfare Officer said he found FHM to be Officer, and the Women’s Officers, “degrading to women” and states that “any Union sabbatical, SU chlamydia drive thought the bags were “hetero- part-time officer or staff member normative, subconsciously send- who orders or receives prod- ON MONDAY October 22, 15 students ing out the message that everyone ucts…to be distributed free to stu- were tested for chlamydia in the is straight.” dents during Freshers’ Week or at Charles as part of a YUSU awareness Leaked emails obtained by any other freshers’ welcome event drive. The campaign is being fronted Nouse have shown continued dis- must consult the Academic & by Academic and Welfare Officer quiet within YUSU since the Welfare Officer, Equality & Grace Fletcher-Hall and Women’s motion was passed. Sam Bayley Diversity Officers and Officer Laura Payne. Fletcher Hall said sent out emails reminding all offi- Environment & Ethics Officers” “1 in 10 students are infected with cers “that they are required by the to make sure that any products Chlamydia. It’s vital that people get Union Code (and thus the consti- detrimental to the welfare of stu- tested, because if they find out they tution) to abide by and carry out dents will not be distributed. have it, it's very easy to treat.” Under decisions of the Executive the new testing system, labelled the Committee, and that officers must “I was disappointed by FHM. ‘Take-away Service, test samples can

not campaign against the deci- TOMHOLE be taken at home and returned to the sions of a committee once they Not by the sexist images, Clinic. Testing kits can be collected have been voted upon.” but the exclusion of the from Fletcher Hall or can be sent To counter the distribution of Ladies' Confessions section. through internal mail for discretion. bags at YUSU Fair, Amy Burge It's the best bit, because it’s The trial will run throughout October gave students the opportunity to The bags aimed at male students contained copies of FHM clearly written by men. Real and, if successful, should be perma- swap their copies of FHM and cel- women don't say ‘it's just nently available to all students. lulite cream for “sexism free” freshers showed mixed reactions is the implication that women eat too big’ nearly that often” cakes. About 250 copies of FHM to the bags. One female student less than men. I don’t know many were swapped. During the fair, said: “What I find really offensive women who aren’t capable of eat- COMMENT >> P10 100 Toffs and Gallery gold cards for YUSU

YUSU has obtained 100 gold cards for Haleh Afshar takes House of Lords peerage the Gallery and Toffs, which are to be distributed to select members of the By Jennifer O’Mahony Government on public policy was told. I shall certainly be fight- ment.” Professor Afshar has Union’s committees. The cards permit DEPUTY EDITOR relating to Muslim women and ing for equal opportunities for served on the British Council and students to get into Gallery and Toffs Islamic law and is the founder and minorities and for women as I the United Nations Association of for free with one guest. Matt Burton, Chair of the Muslim Women's have always done.” which she is Honorary President Services and Finance Officer, has been PROFESSOR HALEH Afshar Network. Born in Iran, Professor of International Services. She is actioned by the other Officers on the OBE, the Politics and Women’s Afshar was chosen as a Afshar is one of the most prolific also Visiting Professor of Islamic Executive committee to create a list of Studies academic, has been given ‘People’s Peer’, an appointment for Muslims in Britain today. She was Law at the International Faculty potential frontrunners out of other a peerage. people who will bring distinction an undergraduate at the of Comparative Law, University of committees such as RAG, Student Professor Afshar will take up and expertise to the House of University of York in the 1960s, Strasbourg. Action, the AU and Ents Tech. Concern a seat on the House of Lords Lords. She said: “I was really very became a committed Marxist dur- In addition to her academic was expressed by Executive officers who cross-benches as a non-party surprised and very honoured to be ing the Iranian revolution and studies, she has written widely as stated that it was difficult to distinguish political peer in recognition of her considered a ‘People's Peer’. In describes Feminism as “my most a journalist on Muslim women which positions would qualify without work. She is an advisor to the fact, I was lost for words when I important and constant commit- and the ‘War on Terror’. offending some individuals.

Who’s October 23 2007 ADVERTISING MANAGER: FEATURES EDITOR: CARTOONIST: In this edition www.NOUSE.co.uk NOUSE Chris Cowan Jo Shelley Chris Turner MANAGING DIRECTOR: FEATURES DEPUTY: B & R EDITOR: News 1-9 Grimston House (V/X/010) Post open Venetia Rainey Lauren Menzies Vanbrugh College SUBEDITORS: ARTS EDITORS: B & R DEPUTY: Comment 10-12 University of York Niamh Walsh Amy Milka Helen Citron Heslington Harriet Wray Amy Scott Letters 13 York SPORTS EDITOR: YO10 5DD NEWS EDITOR: ARTS DEPUTY: Daniel Whitehead Politics 14-16 Raf Sanchez Sarah Jeffries Email: [email protected] WEB EDITOR: NEWS DEPUTY: MUSIC EDITOR: Emma Gawen Sport 17-20 Nicky Woolf Sara Sayeed WEB DEPUTY: STAFF REPORTERS: MUSIC DEPUTY: Natasha Woodward James Cromwell M4-5 EDITOR: Hannah O’Shea Ben Rackstraw Heidi Blake PHOTO EDITOR: Foreign Beggars? M7 POLITICS EDITOR: FILM EDITOR: Ally Carmichael DEPUTY EDITORS: Alberto Furlan Dave Coates Nouse speaks to second year student, Jenny O’Mahony Amy Browne M12-13 Fusion president and professional model Anjli Raval POLITICS DEPUTY: FILM DEPUTY: James MacDougald James Fanning Middle Eastern travel M12-15 Amy Browne about drug abuse, travel- MUSE EDITOR: ling around the world, and how they Ellen Carpenter COMMENT EDITOR: LAST WORD EDITOR: The opinions expressed in Listings M24 make her look like that. Sam Thomas Nicky Woolf this publication are not PRODUCTION MANAGER: necessarily those of the Post open COMMENT DEPUTY: LISTINGS EDITOR: MUSE >> 10-11 Steph Dyson Daniel Ball editors,writers,or advertisers NOUSE: THE UNIVERSITY OF YORK STUDENT NEWSPAPER Tuesday October 23 2007 News 3 Two York students sexually assaulted

By Raf Sanchez in behind them and put his “They were very round. I NEWS EDITOR hand up the victim’s skirt. think that’s what I noticed The victim said: “All of a sud- about him – he just looked den I felt a cold hand go up strange. His eyes were bul- TWO FEMALE University my skirt. I turned out and bous, no particular colour of York students have been elbowed him in the chest that I can remember.” sexually assaulted since the and shouted ‘What the f**k Speaking about her feel- start of term. are you doing?’” The two stu- ings since the attack, the vic- The first attack took dents turned to see that the tim said: “It wasn’t that big a place around 2 am on assailant had his trousers deal at the time. But then October 12 when the victim, open, with penis exposed. when we got to the police who has asked to remain station and Becca was like anonymous, and a friend “What had happened ‘Oh my God, we just got were walking home along didn’t really sink in till I attacked,’ I started to think Fulford Road on the way had got home and given ‘Yeah, we did’. It didn’t really back from the Gallery night- sink in what happened until club. The friend, Becca my statement. I’ve been I got home and had given my Adams, noticed a man walk- crying for the past week. statement. I’ve been crying ing behind them. I feel violated” for the past week. I felt very She said: “I noticed the violated.” guy walking on his own and I The assailant stepped The second attack turned to my friend and I back from the victim, star- occurred at around 1pm on said, ‘Let’s cross the road’. tled by her reaction, and October 18 on Nicholas We crossed but I made sure started to apologise stutter- Street. The assailant grabbed to keep him in my eye line. ingly. Adams said: “Her reac- at the victim’s crotch before He was still walking on the tion was so quick and so she shoved him away. other side of the road so I fierce. He said ‘I’m sorry, I’m Speaking after the attack she was like, ‘It’s fine, I’m just sorry,’ and stepped back. He said: “There was no one else being paranoid.’ I really was so cowardly.” about and I think he just noticed him and had taken The victim said: “I decided to take a chance. I in his details.” The victim, shouted, ‘What the hell are shouted after him but he just however, was unaware of the you still doing here?’ I was sauntered off. It really unset- man walking behind them. more angry than upset at tled me; I live just around The man did not follow that point. My feeling the corner and it seems I them immediately across the changed later.” can't even pop to the corner road and continued to walk The assailant buttoned shop in the middle of the on the other side. Adams his trousers and turned and day, let alone think about said: “He must have been started to walk back up walking home alone at watching me watching him. Fulford Road towards the night.” She described the The point that I stopped city. The two students assailant as being about five looking and started getting walked down Fulford Road foot eight with a slim build CARMICHAEL ALLY involved in conversation, to Fulford Police Station and narrow shoulders. She that’s when he must have where they reported the said he looked about 17 or 18 crossed. He must have attack. The assailant is years old. noticed that I relaxed and described as around five foot North Yorkshire Police stopped looking at him” ten and with a wide face have urged students to be The two students con- with light brown hair. vigilant at night and have tinued to walk towards Adams said that he had very asked anyone with informa- The victim was walking with a friend on Fulford Road coming back from town Fulford when the man closed distinctive eyes. She said: tion to call 01904 618 990. when she was followed and attacked. Police have made an appeal for information Students injured in Tang Hall knife robberies

By Raf Sanchez around 3am on Fourth Avenue, As Hashim stepped back the Fourth Avenue, pulling his balacla- NEWS EDITOR when a group of Derwent JCRC attacker stabbed at him. “He va off as he went. Derwent JCRC members were walking back from stabbed the knife twice into my Chair Jamie Tyler was able to get a Toffs. A single attacker came out stomach. It left me with a bruise look at the attacker’s face as he ran TWO UNIVERSITY of York stu- from Carter Avenue behind the but didn’t actually penetrate. It away and was later able to help dents were injured in separate group. He was wearing a balaclava police produce an e-fit. Tyler said knife robberies in Tang Hall in the and holding a knife. “He stabbed the knife twice the resemblance of the e-fit to the early hours of Wednesday, October Third Year student Moe attacker was “good to average.” 10. Police believe the two robberies Hashim said: “We were walking into my stomach. I lifted up Hashim said the attacker was may be linked. along Fourth Avenue and we heard my t-shirt to see if I was white and looked like he was aged The first robbery occurred at this scream from behind us. I was bleeding and by the time I about 20 years old. He said the around 12.30am on Arthur Street. in the back of the group and I looked up he was already attacker was wearing a dark hood- Second year student and URY pre- turned around and there was a guy running away.” ie, Adidas tracksuit bottoms and senter Rob Watts was walking in a balaclava with a really big white trainers. home when two men in balaclavas knife. Speaking about the attacks, a jumped out from behind a car. One “The knife looked like a cutlass didn’t seem very sharp. I lifted up police spokesman said: "Due to the was carrying a knife. – it had a golden handle and was my t-shirt to see if I was bleeding similarity in nature and the timing Watts said: “One of them curved at the top. I remember the and by the time I looked up he was of the incidents, there is a strong grabbed me and started going A police artist’s impression of weapon better than anything. My already running away.” possibility that they are linked." through my pockets and the other the attacker on Fourth Avenue first thought was that it looked like Hashim suffered a series of Police have urged anyone who one said ‘Give us your wallet and a toy from the Disney store. I small cuts to his hand that formed has any information on the identi- your keys.’ I said ‘Sod off, I haven’t the knife was there or what it thought he had picked it up from a a ‘z’ shape. The attempt to stab his ties of the attackers or was a wit- got anything for you.’” One of the looked like. My focus was on get- student. stomach left him with bruises but ness to either of the attacks to call attackers slashed Watts’s hand with ting away from it.” “I put my hand out and failed to draw blood. York CID on 0845 60 60 247. the knife. After being cut, Watts handed grabbed at the blade and as I did he One of the other members of Students are advised to be vig- Watts said the knife “looked over his wallet and keys and the slashed my hand twice really quick- the group threw his wallet on the ilant when walking home late at like a kitchen knife to me, but my attackers turned and ran off. ly. It wasn’t till I looked down that I ground which the attacker grabbed. night, even in large groups, and to focus wasn’t on the fact that I knew The second attack occurred at realized I was bleeding.” The attacker turned and ran down report any suspicious sightings. NOUSE: THE UNIVERSITY OF YORK STUDENT NEWSPAPER 4 News Tuesday October 23 2007 Debate over alcohol sparked

By Lily Eastwood CAMPUS DRINKING STATISTICS and Raf Sanchez Students who drink THE EVENTS OF Freshers’ Week have sparked a heated 81% twice a week or less debate amongst student rep- resentatives about the role of alcohol in campus life. Students who believe that Goodricke JCRC Chair Ben drinking should not affect Wardle has called the levels 82% of drinking on the YUSU- academic responsibilities organised Viking Raid “obscene” and said that it undermines the responsible Students who have never drinking message espoused underachieved on a piece of by JCRCs and YUSU. 87% work as a result of drinking Wardle, who was a steward on the 1,700 person bar crawl, said: “There will Students who have never always be a demand for alco- been hurt or injured as a holic events and the solution 84% is not to get rid of those but result of drinking to get rid of the stigma of not drinking. I think the prob- lem is not helped with Students who have never things like YUSU Viking % been involved in property Raid. I organised a bar crawl 94 damage due to alcohol use with only six bars. Viking Raid is eight bars in a few hours. It is obscene. It is Students who have never ridiculous.” had an argument or fight as Wardle said that he 85% believed the decision to use a result of alcohol use eight bars was motivated by profit and that “encouraging fast-paced drinking for prof- Students who keep track of it can only be described as % the number of drinks they wrong.” 63 consume Wardle added that the message of responsible drinking was further under- Students who stay safe by mined by the heavy alcohol 71% use among union sabbatical walking home with friends officers. He said: “It does not promote responsible drink- ing if the managers of the union are blind drunk while Students who drink only in stewarding.” The YUSU-organised Viking Raid bar crawl visited eight bars, followed by a night 83% environments where they Alcuin JCRC Chair club. Goodricke Chair Ben Wardle said the levels of drinking were “obscene” feel safe Louis Wihl also expressed concerns over the levels of YUSU Service and not the case. If you look at not been advertised but said drinking on the Viking Raid Finance Officer Matt Burton the route you will see that he didn’t believe students but said he would not com- has refuted the allegation bars have been paired up in felt encouraged to attend all Source: The Social Norms Research Centre ment until he had had a that the decision to use eight order to combat the queuing eight bars. President Anne www.socialnorms.co.uk chance to raise the issue bars was motivated by prof- issues.” Burton admitted Marie-Canning said: “No with YUSU. it. He said: “That is simply that the pairing system had one [among the union sab- Second year to stand in general election

By Sarah Foster community, we can make definite fresh ideas to Parliament.” She is aware of her student NEWS CORRESPONDENT progress. I’ll be doing as much as I Hazelgrove’s University career connotations, saying she can can because I want to get out there remains uncertain and she is plan- “appeal to younger, perhaps more A SECOND YEAR University of and talk to people” ning to meet with Head of Politics apathetic voters. The student and York Politics student has been Hazelgrove has worked with Department, Dr. Matt Matravers, young people’s vote is often neg- selected as the Labour parliamen- Sally Keeble, Labour MP for about her options. Hazelgrove is lected but I aiming to get as many tary candidate for the constituency Northampton North for the past currently the head of the Politics younger people involved in this of Skipton and Ripon. two years, both within her con- Society. campaign as possible.” Claire Hazelgrove, 19, origi- stituency and in her parliamentary On October 19, Hazelgrove Hazelgrove said she was nally from Northamptonshire, said offices. attended a local party hustings, in unworried about the prospect of she was “very surprised” after beat- It was this involvement in which she was questioned by being such a young member of par- ing a much older opponent to local politics, says Hazlegrove, Labour party members living in the liament. When asked if she felt that secure the candidacy. which culminated in her name area. After answering questions on parliamentarians would respect a Hazelgrove faces an uphill being added to a ‘long-list’ for can- a range of topics, including the pos- 19 year old she said: “I think they fight in her constituency, as didacy selection, from which she sibility of Turkey’s inclusion in the will because a lot of MPs are saying Skipton and Ripon is one of the few was picked by the local Labour EU to nuclear power, Hazelgrove that we need more young people Conservative strongholds in the party to be one of their five short- was selected as candidate by a and more women in politics.” whole of Yorkshire and listed candidates. When asked if majority of party members. In recent weeks, Nouse Humberside. In the 2005 General she felt voters would take a 19 year Hazelgrove said she believed reported that Former YUSU York student Claire Hazelgrove Election the Conservatives took old candidate seriously, she said: “I she was chosen for her “enthusi- President James Alexander has more than 50% of the vote. stronghold but I think we can think they’ll probably be surprised asm, awareness of key issues and been selected as Labour candidate Hazelgrove is optimistic about her make definite headway. If we get at first but hopefully see eventually the fresh face and fresh ideas that I for the newly formed constituency chances, saying, “It is a Tory out there and talk to people in the that I can bring a fresh face and could bring to local politics.” of York Outer. NOUSE: THE UNIVERSITY OF YORK STUDENT NEWSPAPER Tuesday October 23 2007 News 5 as students are hospitalised batical officers] was incredi- bly drunk. Ben also drank as Two ambulances called well. Some officers chose to drink, some didn’t. Some amidst fears of Club D went home early, some stayed. I think officers behaved responsibly and I drink spiking repeat don’t think there was any issue last night.” YUSU Societies and By Lily Eastwood tial the circumstances in which they Communications officer and Raf Sanchez call for ambulance support. Sam Bayley said that Wardle Derwent Welfare Rep Charlie

was “exaggerating”. CARMICHAEL ALLY Leyland said that the policy led to a When asked whether A NUMBER of students have been dangerous breakdown in communi- the Viking Raid undermined hospitalised after alcohol-related cation between emergency services the responsible drinking incidents at campus events. In the and student welfare. She said: “It is message put out by YUSU worst instance, as many as five stu- a massive issue for welfare because and JCRCs, Academic and dents were taken to hospital during it means that we don’t know if there Welfare officer Grace or soon after Derwent’s ‘Slag and are drinks being spiked. All we Fletcher-Hall said: “I would Drag’ Club D event, though the know is that somebody has been say there is obviously an Two ambulances were called to Derwent during the ‘Slag and Drag’ exact number has not been con- sent home in an ambulance – we encouragement to get drunk, Club D. Paramedics refused to give the JCRC details of the incident firmed. Initial reports of drink spik- don’t know when they came back, I wouldn’t say there is a pres- ing remain unbstantiated. who they are, whether anybody is sure and I think the number Two ambulances were called to looking out for them and knows of bars we include is defi- THE DRINKING DEBATE the event before 11pm by York where they’ve been. They [the para- nitely something to look at Grace Fletcher-Hall, Academic & Welfare Links, the student paramedics who medics] don’t seem to tell anybody.” in the future.” provide first aid for campus events. In a statement, York Links’ Speaking earlier in the “We need a much less alcohol-centred culture. A Derwent porter confirmed that at defended the organisation’s policy week, Fletcher-Hall said that It’s a bit of a no-brainer – if people are going to least two students had been taken saying, “The reason we don’t give her job would be “irrelevant” drink so much, bad things are going to happen. from the event in the ambulances. out names and circumstances of if students didn’t drink so Obviously, people need to take individual Two second years were taken patients is that we must comply much. responsibility but when there are so many to hospital shortly after the event. with the Data Protection Act. The “We have had students opportunities during Freshers’ Week to drink, One was involved in an accident in only way we can issue names is if who’ve reportedly had their which she fell while being carried the person treated signs a form drinks spiked. We’ve had on the shoulders of another student releasing that information.” students who got so drunk Ben Wardle, Goodricke Chair and suffered several serious cuts to The issue is due to be discussed that they’ve had to go to hos- her face. A second was taken after in Senate next week. pital. We’ve had a student “There will always be a demand for alcoholic becoming seriously ill from exces- The incidents at Club D have who got so drunk that he fell events and the solution is not to get rid of those sive alcohol consumption. put Derwent under scrutiny. in the river on the way home but get rid of the stigma of not drinking. I think Derwent Ents Rep Sian Welfare Rep Joe Pearce denied the and of course we had a stu- the problem is not helped with things like YUSU Thomas said the situation was JCRC encourages a binge drinking dent who drowned this time Viking Raid. I organised a bar crawl with only unprecedented, saying, “I have been culture, saying, “We don’t encour- last year. It’s just really, real- six bars. Viking Raid is eight bars in a few hours. the RP [Responsible Person] for a age people to do anything irrespon- ly worrying. It is obscene. It is ridiculous.” lot of Club Ds and I’ve never had sible.” “We need a much less anyone taken to hospital, let alone While feedback from first year alcohol-centred culture, it’s a Anne-Marie Canning, YUSU President four.” students was largely positive, there bit of a no-brainer – if people Reports that the students were reports of STYCs pressuring are going to drink so much “Ben is entitled to his opinion, but I disagree. taken from the event had their first years into heavy drinking. One bad things are going to hap- What he says doesn’t worry me because I know drinks spiked remain unconfirmed, first-year Derwent student said: pen. Obviously, people need that we are acting very responsibly and taking as blood test results are confidential “Everyone in this block knows that to take individual responsi- steps forward all the time. I’m not worried and not released to JCRs or college they caused problems. They made bility but when there are so because I think we have got a good plan in place staff. Last year drinks were spiked me down a drink because they held many opportunities during with regards to our approach to responsible at three consecutive Club Ds. it up and I got so wasted after that.” Freshers’ Week to drink it’s drinking and also inclusive events, events that Confusion over the number Pearce confirmed that two not surprising people end up don’t involve drinking.” and identities of students hospi- STYCs have been formally cau- ill or hurt.” talised has arisen as a result of York tioned by the JCRC for inappropri- Links’ policy of keeping confiden- ate behaviour. SU loses hundreds of pounds’ worth of merchandise in series of burglaries from the Student Centre this month

By Anjl Raval Week. The banner had cost YUSU ing an office security audit to £200. YUSU President Anne- improve security measures and DEPUTY EDITOR Marie Canning has declared an monitor access to the building”. amnesty over the issue, asking the The YUSU owned YOUR:SHOP HUNDREDS OF POUNDS’ worth thief to return the banner in return franchise has also been affected by of YUSU merchandise has been for no action being taken against robbery. stolen in a series of burglaries from them by the Union. A number of bottles of spirits the Student Centre. The recent In addition, approximately 30 worth approximately £60 were thefts have led to an increase in Viking Raid t-shirts were stolen taken in the middle of the day. preventative security measures from various locations around Weaknesses in security on campus deployed in the building. campus including the Student and in University buildings has YUSU Services and Finance Centre and the Physics building been an ongoing issue in the last Officer informed Nouse of the over the course of Freshers’ week. year. recent spate of robberies. He said: The stolen t-shirts have cost the In November, 2006 there was “A newly purchased banner was Union around £225 in potential a spate of burglaries in Goodricke, stolen from outside the Student lost revenue. Halifax and James. In one incident Centre. It was suspended from the Burton said: “In future, we are a female Goodricke student top of the building on rope and was going to be far more vigilant over returned to her room to find a man pulled down in the middle of the where we store these t-shirts, who A YUSU banner, worth around £200, was stolen from the Student Centre going through her belongings. A night”, at the end of Freshers’ has access, and in general are hav- during Freshers’ Week. YUSU have declared an amnesty for its return. man was later arrested in Halifax. NOUSE: THE UNIVERSITY OF YORK STUDENT NEWSPAPER 6 News Tuesday October 23 2007 YUSU members speak out against ‘aggressive’ CU recruitment tactics

By Jonathan Fransman CU, defended the booklets, and Henry Foy saying that “Apart from the fact that it’s from a Christian group, I don’t think there’s JCRC CHAIRS AND YUSU anything in there that could sabbbatical officers spoke be construed as offensive. I out in a recent Senate meet- mean, some people get ing against the “aggressive” offended at just about any- recruitment tactics thing, but the vast majority employed by the Christian of people would find none of Union (CU) to recruit new what’s in there offensive.” members during Freshers’ However, Ed Veale, CU Week. Male President, apologised Many of those present for the transgressions, say- felt that CU representatives ing: “We don’t want to go not only broke University against University regula- regulations but acted inap- tions, I guess we’ve been lax propriately by attempting to in some of the colleges with gain access to housing blocks ticking the boxes to make to distribute booklets giving sure what we’re doing is advice on settling in and fine.” advocating the CU and its Friction between uni- causes. versity CUs and their stu- Matt Burton, YUSU dents’ unions has been an Services and Finance Officer, issue at several institutions stated that this posed a “seri- in the UK. ous security issue” and could Late last year the Exeter be even be “deemed as tres- RAINEY VENETIA Christian Union attempted passing”. to sue the University and Security guidelines state Students’ Guild after being that non-YUSU–affiliated temporarily removed from societies require prior per- the list of University-affiliat- mission from the college ed societies. provosts when entering resi- The CU has been accused of ‘aggressive’ recruitment tactics for approaching freshers with religious literature The society was dential blocks. removed due to its practice YUSU, who are keen to entered Derwent blocks to CU’s approach in Goodricke they were forbidden from been a “long running issue” of requiring committee be considered non-denomi- distribute material in as “intimidating”. taking part, CU members that had been going on “for members and speakers in the national, felt that the CU’s advance of the freshers’ Marco McAllister, attended the meeting in an years and years and years”. union to sign a declaration of recruitment tactics may have arrival without seeking per- Overseas Student evangelical capacity and, However, she was keen faith which the Students’ led freshers to believe that mission to do so. Association President, told when challenged by two stu- to stress the good relation- Guild felt was in breach of the literature was produced He expressed concern Senate that he was dents from other faiths, ship between YUSU and the equal opportunities policy. and distributed directly on that this might have given approached by CU members allegedly invited them to CU, saying that their reason- Both Canning and Veale behalf of the Students’ freshers the “wrong impres- who wished to take part in become Christians. able outlook would make it said that, despite their con- Union. sion” that the college was an introductory session for Anne-Marie Canning, relatively easy to find a solu- cerns, they hoped relations Jamie Tyler, Derwent “endorsing” the religion. foreign students. YUSU President, told Senate tion to the problem. between the CU and YUSU JCRC Chair, said that the Ben Wardle, Goodricke McAllister claims that, that problems with the CU’s Daniel Gladwell, would never escalate to that Derwent branch of the CU JCRC Chair, described the despite being explicitly told recruitment strategy has Evangelism Secretary for the level in York. SU clash with Ftr over ticket cuts Student on bridge in security incident By Jennifer O’Mahony Campaigns Officer Chris DEPUTY EDITOR Swann said: “We will peti- By Ben Glover naller in the army, put his tion them directly at HQ, NEWS CORRESPONDENT foot on the rail, stood up and and petitions will appear grabbed the student by his YUSU CAMPAIGNS across colleges and hopefully shirt, while another man, a Officers are set to clash with in town.” If this were to prove SECURITY FEARS were York student, grabbed his leg the First bus company after unsuccessful, direct action raised in the early hours of and pulled him down. the Ftr ten journey ticket was would be taken and sanc- the morning on Saturday The student then fell discontinued at the start of tioned by YUSU. Swann October 14, when a male and was caught by the sec- term. said: “I’d support a boycott, third-year student climbed ond man and restrained Students bought the £11 but what’s unfortunate is on top of the Goodricke and after a struggle, before being discount ticket to avoid the that some second and third Vanbrugh Bridge and handed over to security staff. flat rate of £1.50 single and years have to take the bus refused to come down. The soldier later said: “I £2.50 return fares. The every day. A boycott might The man refused to be don’t know why he was up replacement passes of £99 a not be in their best interest.” coaxed down by security staff there, but it was clear he term and £269 for a full aca- Freshers were thought Ftr ten journey tickets can no longer be used on buses or fellow students, and wouldn’t have been able to demic year are seen as inade- to be buying the higher repeatedly shouted abuse at get out of the lake if he had quate. It is thought the move priced term and yearly pass- tomers began at the start of customers at Your: Shop, do passers by. He was heard to of fallen in. I just wanted to by First is part of an attempt es without realising that York this term, when Your: Shop not need to use the bus daily. say to one mature student: get home, the security just to standardise pricing across town centre was just 25 min- displayed signs telling stu- The Ftr is the only bus into “How old are you mate? I bet wanted to get home but we the country, and that the ten utes away on foot, and were dents that the popular dis- town from campus and that your mum is dead. You couldn’t have left the obvi- journey ticket has been therefore spending needless- count pass was no longer therefore has a monopoly on shouldn’t be here”. ously disturbed young lad up phased out as a result. ly large sums of money on a available. student customers. Students Eventually, the student was there, so me and my mate At a meeting of the service they would not The weekly and month- seem to be frustrated with dragged down by two passers decided to sort it out.”. Union Senate it was decided always require. ly passes that First also offers the cost of the bus, together by. It is unclear why he The student has been that a petition would be the The latest development are not as popular because with faulty barcode scanning decided to climb on top of reported to his tutors and first step in trying to lower in the ongoing dispute the majority of campus resi- equipment, leaving many the bridge. now faces disciplinary proce- prices for students. between First and its cus- dents, who are the primary with fines for unpaid fares. The first man, a sig- dures. NOUSE: THE UNIVERSITY OF YORK STUDENT NEWSPAPER Tuesday October 23 2007 News 7 YUSU in continued row over ethics

By Raf Sanchez ing company the motion Langley stressed that the NEWS EDITOR would allow union officers to Environmental and Ethics source from a company with- officers should be consulted out ethical credentials. on all policy concerning ethi- YUSU SERVICE and The motion was second- cal merchandise. He said: “If Finance Officer Matt Burton ed by YUSU Ents Officer we give you advice, its part of has been forced to withdraw Rory Shanks and former union policy. We must be lis- a UGM motion that, if Societies and tened to or we’ll be com- passed, could make the Communications Officer pletely undermined.” The sourcing of next year’s Viking Colin Hindson. speech, widely seen as thinly- Raid t-shirts exempt from Burton said the purpose veiled criticism of the Service current ethical merchandise of the motion was to reduce and Finance officer’s han- regulations. The controver- YUSU’s dependence on the dling of the situation, came sial motion triggered a furi- People & Planet Ethical shortly after Burton ous row with YUSU Merchandise guide, a list of announced that he was Environment and Ethics suppliers which the current intending to submit the new Officers and has led to a motion mandates the union motion. number of leaks from within to source from. Following the motion’s the Union. Two separate He said: “At the withdrawal Langley and fel- sources within YUSU have moment we are linked to a low Environmental and alleged that the first line of webpage that can be changed Ethics officer Tom Williams an original draft of the daily, it could be reduced released a statement saying, motion read “students have a down to one supplier at “We are pleased that the price on ethics”. whim of the society. It leaves motion has been withdrawn, The motion, which the union vulnerable in that although we are bemused allegedly described the policy there isn’t a pre-defined list that it was submitted in the change as a “common sense” and it isn’t down to its own first place. We are looking approach to ethical mer- officers to decide.” forward to working with the chandise, was withdrawn A second source within other officers of the Union to hours before the UGM final YUSU emailed Nouse writing a motion which deadline submission follow- anonymously claiming that encompasses the spirit of the ing heated last minute talks the aim of the motion was to current motion’s policy and between Burton and YUSU “revoke the old motion, mak- gives increased functionality Environment and Ethics ing the ethical merchandise to the union.” Officer Tom Langley. Sources policy entirely non-binding. People & Planet Chair close to Langley have report- The buyers of merchandise Kate Evans said she was ed that he considered resig- had to ‘consult’ with relieved the motion had be nation if the motion was not Environment and Ethics offi- withdrawn. She rejected withdrawn. cers, not be bound by a list of claims that students put a The motion noted that approved suppliers.” price on ethics, saying, “It is the route for the Viking Raid Burton admitted that no certainly not a healthy phi- and the design of the t-shirts attempt had been made to losophy, and I suspect that was difficult to finalise well contact either of the the reason they are arguing in advance of the event. It Environment and Ethics this is because a successful proposed that the shirts’ sup- Officers over the summer in ethical merchandise motion plier should be able to guar- order to consult them on the would involve a bit of hard antee a production turn proposed policy shift. work. Students have voted around of one week. If this Speaking in Senate on for this motion , and there- one week criteria could not Wednesday, before the York students at Viking Raid III, which took place in week 2 this term.The motion fore it's the job of the sabbat- be met by an ethically-sourc- motion was withdrawn, could have exempted Viking Raid shirts from ethical sourcing regulations ical officers to make it work.” Friends attend the funeral of University may order drowned student Rob Davies fingerprinting in exams By Anjli Raval Davies’ favourite composer, By Anjli Raval Grace Fletcher-Hall, who sits as a Chopin, and the song “Whatever” student representative on the com- DEPUTY EDITOR by Oasis. DEPUTY EDITOR mittee said: “It’s the only idea at the Davies’ sister, Helen, spoke of moment, and both I and the GSA OVER 40 UNIVERSITY of York the last time she saw her brother. UNIVERSITY administrators are representative at the meeting students and staff members attend- She said: “He came over and gave considering using fingerprint raised the point that the initial data ed the funeral of third year me a hug and said have a good time recognition as a means of deterring collection might well prove unpop- Chemistry student Robert Davies at uni. I didn’t know how precious students from cheating in exams. ular with students. It is likely to be who died after going missing on a that time was.” Helen had only just The proposal comes in response to quite expensive.” night out with friends. Davies’ body begun her first year at the the recent arrest of two students for A spokesperson for Student was found on October 1 in the University of Lancaster when her attempted fraud in an Economics Administrative Services said: River Ouse after a week long search brother went missing. She returned exam. “These ideas are not necessarily by police and emergency services. to university soon after the body The idea was first suggested at where we’re going we’re just look- The University organised a was discovered. a meeting of the Standing ing at a whole range of technologies coach to take those wishing to pay Davies was a popular figure on Committee on Assessment and to address the problem. We don’t respects at the service on Monday, campus. A Facebook group named proposed as a more rigorous alter- want the students to think that October 15. The funeral was held in ‘Find Rob Davies’, which was origi- native to the current system of those students were caught and Davies’ hometown of Bury, just nally set up to co-ordinate student identity cards used in University that was just a fluke.” north of Manchester. effort to assist police with the exams. The idea originated when a Two students, Qiu Shi Zhang, Davies’ father, Tony Davies search for the lost student, has now number of committee members 23, and Elnar Askerov, 22, were said: “Rob was a son who any par- The image of Robert Davies used been turned into a memorial site visited local schools where the arrested on May 11 during an during the police search for him ent would have been proud to with hundreds of messages of sym- Digital Recognition fingerprinting Economics exam for separate but have.” have been at York”. pathy and support. system was being used. similiar attempts to defraud the Head of Chemistry, Dr. Paul Davies was a skilled musician The Chemistry Department Thumbprint scanners were University by having someone else Walton who spoke at the service whose parents had recently bought has initiated plans for a memorial used to let children borrow and sit their exams. Both students were said: “Telling Rob’s year about the him a piano as an early 21st birth- for Davies, likely to include a com- return books without them having expelled for their actions. Askerov tragic events was the hardest thing day present. Music played at the memorative plaque and a bench to use cards or money. YUSU is due to appear in court on I have had to do in the 15 years I service including a piano piece by near the department’s base. Academic and Welfare Officer November 12 charged with fraud. NOUSE: THE UNIVERSITY OF YORK STUDENT NEWSPAPER 8 News Tuesday October 23 2007 Film, Theatre and Television set to take centre stage on campus

By Will Tate and Katy Dennis-Smithen

FACILITIES FOR the new University of York Department for Theatre, Film and Television have been hailed as a “ground- breaking and exciting” addi- tion to the University. The new department has opened this year in its temporary home in the Genesis 6 development of the Science Park. Professor Richard Woolley, the first head of the department, resigned shortly after its creation for personal reasons. The Department has been funded by a donation from University of York

Chancellor and former RAINEY VENETIA Director-General of the BBC Greg Dyke. The donation was from the severance-pay package that he received from the BBC upon his forced resigna- tion following the Hutton State-of-the-art technology in the new Department of Film,Theatre and Television based in the Genesis 6 development of the Science Park Enquiry of 2003-4. “The Department will Facilities include a dence on the new campus. writing and direction, along nity to use production and this will allow students encourage innovation, cre- screening theatre, a post- The Heslington East site will with performance ranging post-production technology, access to first-hand experi- ativity and the highest level production lab and the contain editing suites, new from ancient Greek to con- using equipment which will ence and knowledge. of technical expertise Dixon studio, but will soon studios and industry stan- temporary theatre. rival that of most profession- “The introduction of amongst its students,” said boast a new theatre in dard software, the number of A University spokesman al industries”. such a modern and techno- Dyke. Derwent College, an audio students in the Department said that the new depart- The Department will logical degree will surely The Department is cur- suite and state-of-the-art projected at 450. ment “aims to provide a also offer master-classes run help the University shed its rently only running post- blue screen technology. The Department, which modern degree that will pro- by professionals such as '1960s' image and will open graduate courses, however it Phase one of the has links with the vide valuable insight and Penelope Wilton, a theatre up many new opportunities will begin to take on under- Heslington East develop- Department of English and knowledge into the media and television actress, and for aspiring actors, produc- graduate students from ment will see the facility Related Literature, plans to industry. Students will also Sam West, actor and theatre ers and directors,” said a October 2008. move into a permanent resi- teach courses that cover have the invaluable opportu- director. It is thought that spokesperson. New clubs and bars to be built at Barbican

By Nicky Woolf licence they could wish to Hannah Martin, third-year ming pools and a concert open a very large drinking students, are working with hall. DEPUTY NEWS EDITOR den until the early hours of Absolute Life to plan the stu- However, local resi- the morning.” dent nights at the Barbican dents have expressed anger BUILDING WORK on a Absolute Leisure, the centre. about the fact that their new club, bar and restaurant club and bar operator that “The club night is going views on the development development at the Barbican also runs the Floating to happen once a week for were not consulted by the centre in Fishergate, just Nightclub in Gateshead in students,” said Christey. council prior to permission minutes from the University Newcastle, deny allegations “Provisionally they’re saying for the project being given. of York campus, is due to from local residents’ group a capacity of 3,000 for the Save Our Barbican, a begin on December 4. Save Our Barbican that the main room, and there’s going local pressure group founded The plans, which are development will constitute to be a VIP area upstairs as by Dr. John Issitt, the thought likely to please stu- a ‘superclub’. well. provost of Langwith College, dents, have been met with However, a spokesman “Because of the very big have expressed their dis- opposition from local resi- for Absolute Leisure said capacity, we’re not actually pleasure with the way the dents. Concerns have been that the facility will include going to aim to have that council has handled the bid, expressed that the develop- “a multifunctional venue many people in, so there will accusing them of “spin and ment will constitute a ‘super- which will have a number of Building work on new club complex, which will be be things like jacuzzis and a truth-twisting” and “breath- club’, which may have a bars and restaurants as well called ‘Octopussy’,is due to start on December 4 bouncy castle and those taking arrogance”. detrimental effect on the as a live music venue which types of things to fill it up,” area. can also be used for club and local events” and that people of all ages.” said Christey. ‘The thing that makes Dave Taylor, the Green nights.” they “intend to offer food, Absolute Life, a stu- Absolute Leisure, work- York’s student nights Party Councillor for Absolute Leisure, who drink and a meeting place dent-oriented club night ing with the Barbican great is that you see Fishergate ward, said: run several clubs and venues during the day and late into company based in London Venture York Ltd trust, who “Certainly the potential is across the north-east of the night.” and Newcastle and not affili- bought the site from the everyone you know. Do there because the licences England, say that the venue Their stated aim, they ated to Absolute Leisure, has local council, are investing we need a new, less have been afforded to will “be used for seminars, say, is to “bring in more been brought in to plan the £2.5 million in refurbishing familiar venue?’ Absolute Leisure by the conferences and dances as entertainment” and “create a student club night. the complex, which was orig- council. They’ve got every well as for smaller concerts venue with activities to suit Missy Christey and inally built to house swim- COMMENT >> P12 NOUSE :THE UNIVERSITY OF YORK STUDENT NEWSPAPER Tuesday October 23 2007 News 9

THE NUS AT YORK Liberation fears as date for Environment and Ethics The NUS Environment and Ethics Committee provides NUS referendum draws near valuable advice and research to officers, as well as facilitat- ing the exchange of ideas between YUSU and E&E By Anjli Raval counterparts at other unions, DEPUTY EDITOR so that environmental issues effecting students can be THE STUDENTS’ union is set to addressed at a national as well hold a referendum on whether it as a local level. should retain its membership of the NUS in Week 6. YUSU Services and Finance Liberation officers have spoken out in recent weeks about the effects YUSU taps into the NUS sup- that disaffiliation could have on port network for legal advice their campaigns. on the range of legal issues it The motion to hold a referen- faces throughout the year. dum, which was put forward by Without the NUS, YUSU may Louis Wihl, JCRC Chair of Alcuin face solicitors’ bills. College, was voted for almost unan- imously by YUSU Officers and Liberation Movements : JCRC Chairs in a University Senate meeting in May. Wihl was keen to LGBT, Racial Equality and stress that he was in favour of the Women’s NUS and that the aim of the refer- NUS facilitates liberation cam- endum was, in his view, to “pro- paigns on a far larger scale mote the NUS and show everyone than could be achieved by why it’s a good thing”. individual unions. Solidarity YUSU officers have expressed among unions around the mixed views with regards to disaf- country maximises the impact filiation. Those promoting libera- of campaigns. The NUS holds tion campaigns such as LGBT, considerable sway as a lobby Racial Equality and Women’s group, representing student Officers hold strong views against and Union interests at a disaffiliation. national level. LGBT Officer, Matthew Pallas said: “Being part of a national body TIMETABLEWelfare means we are connected to debates The NUS organised an anti-top up fees march, attended by York students, in November 2006 and ideas that take place on a much NUS provides students with a larger scale than just one Students’ my position and membership as Campaigns for and against affilia- place throughout Week 6, with national voice in campaigns Union alone. Most university part of the NUS to make sure that tion with the NUS will be spear- Union funds being used to promote and in negotiations with min- LGBT groups only became trans- this happens. My position and headed by two separate Union offi- the events and encourage students isters and businesses. inclusive after the NUS changed its moral obligations would be com- cers who are yet to be decided. to vote. The week will begin with Lobbying on issues such as top-up fees is best undertaken LGB campaign to an LGBT cam- pletely undermined if I was not Services and Finance Officer an NUS affiliation panel debate on by a national organisation rep- paign in 2005. The arguments part of the group that lobbies gov- Matt Burton highlighted an oppos- November 12. The rest of the week resenting a large number of about trans inclusion were played ernment about these issues.” ing point, saying that even though will see Pro- and Anti-NUS speak- students; something individual out and resolved on a national The referendum, titled the University pays £12,000 per ers, together with a talk by John unions would be unable to do. level, in a way that would be diffi- “Should the University of York’s year less than other larger institu- Randal, a past YUSU and NUS cult to replicate locally in hundreds Students’ Union maintain its affili- tions such as the Universities of President. Students will have the of students’ unions around the ation with the NUS?”, needs at least Manchester and Leeds, “they can opportunity to vote between mid- Training country”. 650 votes to be cast to reach quora- pay that much without blinking, day on November 13 and midday NUS training courses equip Michael Batula, Racial cy, meaning 6.75% of the student whereas we have much more trou- November 16 at www.yusu.org. union officers with the skills Equality Officer stated: population have to vote in order for ble finding that amount of money”. Results will be published on the and resources needed to pro- “Disaffiliation, would be like losing a decision to be made. The NUS affiliation fee that York YUSU website by November 16. vide training within their own the main body of what my position Anne-Marie Canning, YUSU pays has just decreased from unions. Disaffiliation would stands for. Racial equality can only President, will co-ordinate the ref- £40,000 to £36,000, but ques- Talking point: the case for and mean looking toward costly be achieved from the grassroots erendum with Matt Burton, tions are still being asked as to against NUS disaffiliation private companies which do upwards but that has to be facilitat- Services and Finance Officer, whether this is value for money. not focus on students. ed from the people at the top. I use standing as the Returning Officer. A schedule of events will take COMMENT >> P10-11 WEB-CANNING Grants, women’s rights and top-up This week’s snapshot from YUSU’s web-cam fees: a brief history of NUS activism

By Anjli Raval and grants for students from er it was not until after the up fees, with 40,000 stu- DEPUTY EDITOR poorer families. 1992 general election that dents marching in 14 cities 1976 saw the eradica- the Government eventually around England against tion of student fees, and the brought in primary legisla- plans to introduce tuition Since the inception of the 1980s saw a change in stu- tion under the Education fees in 1997. student movement in 1922, dent demographics, with Act 1994. Significant measures students have campaigned more women encouraged to Original aims consisted were taken to prevent uni- for issues affecting them. pursue higher education of splitting up students’ versities charging top-up The early 1960s saw the degrees. union services between fees and NUS called for a NUS developing its capacity Up until the 1990s, the those that could be publicly one day shut-down of higher as an educational pressure NUS fought continuously funded and those than could education, followed by a ref- group during a period of for funding for polytechnics be funded by voluntary con- erendum on the issue. growth and development in and colleges, securing £40 tributions from students. It Further protests took place higher education. The NUS million on two separate was effective lobbying by the in 2003, with the ‘stop fees moved from localized occasions. The NUS attract- NUS that ensured the sur- now’ campaign bringing Realising that he bag disaster, Sam himself as an actions and campaigns onto ed the attention of certain vival of students’ unions as over 30,000 to London. In is not going to Bayley has decid- oversized koala national demonstrations, Conservative MPs who were we have them today. November 2006, hundreds get away with the ed to go into hid- bear for the focusing on matters such as looking to end state funding The end of the 1990s of York students joined an YUSU Fair goodie ing and disguise forseeable future. students’ union autonomy of students’ unions; howev- became dominated by top- NUS protest against fees. NOUSE : THE UNIVERSITY OF YORK STUDENT NEWSPAPER 10 Comment Tuesday October 23 2007 11 Comment & Analysis Bags of fun for boys and girls Everybody loves a freebie, says conventional wisdom. Organising the Cream for cellulite? Satisfy my appetite Proportionately posh? Freshers’ Fair, YUSU officers must have reasoned along these lines when they accepted the offer of 3,000 promotional bags from a marketing firm. However, in a neat testament to the unfortunate truth that you can’t always higher education by the costs involved. keep everyone happy, the branding and contents of the bags caused internal FHM, instant mash and tinned goods: YUSU’s opened up a great big can of beans Despite government loans, there are still rifts when they arrived, which quickly spread to the rest of the student body. Edward Russell- families, particularly those with no histo- The objections came in two flavours. The first took issue with the way in ry of higher education, who find the idea which the bags were divided – colour coded pink and blue – to cater suppos- portion, then here’s a half-size tin. In cellulite cream but I shall buy it myself, Johnson of getting into debt to fund a degree edly for male and female preferences. The very fact of this division is a con- Lily Eastwood case you hadn’t guessed, it’s the beans not be offered it by my Student Union. Contributing Writer inconceivable. troversial piece of sexual politics: the idea that the sexes can be so neatly that bother me the most. Even the reactionary project at In fact, it is a bigger step for many of Contributing Writer divided in their tastes is, on a strict understanding of equality, an affront to Fact is, having tossed my cellulite Freshers’ Fair was wanting. Ditching these families now than it would have the idea that men and women should be treated equally. cream into the bin of liberation and your cellulite cream for a munch on the been forty years ago, when students were There is a reasonable response to this line, and it goes like this: although ruminated over a cupcake I very quickly way home may be a statement against A recent article in The Guardian has given grants rather than loans. the colour-coding might be crass, it’s reasonable to think there might be ceased to be angry about FHM. I knew I YUSU, but it is also a trivialisation of the revived an age-old educational debate; Students from state schools may some things that are more desirable or useful to men than women, or vice was going to go home and read my sexist issues at hand. It perpetuates the that of elitism in universities. The article well suffer as a result of their inability (or versa. To say this isn’t necessarily to posit an inequality, but simply to assert It doesn’t take a raging feminist to see a housemate’s sample copy of the “Men’s idea that if you hold any kind of feminist focuses on Oxbridge, stating that 40% of unwillingness) to pay for both secondary a difference. Cellulite cream, featured in the pink bags, is marketed to problem with the YUSU Bags of Fun. It General Interest Magazine” cover to views, you don’t care about the way you their intake comes from private institu- and tertiary education, but barring some women. The magazine FHM, found in the blue, is marketed to men. does, however, take Sam Bayley and Matt cover and when I proved myself right, I look. Contrary to popular belief, you can tions, schools which make up just 7% of kind of quasi-Communist educational What is less easy to defend is the content of the bags themselves. Burton to see no problem at all. I am left was disappointed. Not by the exploita- care about cellulite and womens’ rights. the UK’s student population. reform, this will surely continue. Cellulite cream is a product from a lucrative industry which thrives on cer- not so much angry, but bemused - who tion of the female form, but to find that The crux of this overblown situation So, Oxford and Cambridge are elit- Alternative attempts to remedy the tain assumptions about female beauty. Whatever you might think about the really thought there would be no objec- they’d missed out the Ladies’ Confessions is not about the offensive nature of indi- ist. Not exactly news, is it? But supposing situation tend to fall under the deleteri- cosmetics trade, marketing it at new students, not all of whom necessarily tion to the pink and blue welcomes from section. It’s the best bit, not least of all vidual products. Everyone has their own the focus was shifted onto, I don’t know, ous label of ‘positive discrimination’ – the have a positive view of their bodies, is blatantly irresponsible. YUSU this year? because it is clearly written by men. Real pet hates about what was in the bag. the University of York, for instance. process of favouring those from certain It is also true that FHM promotes a male culture driven by machismo, Sexist allegations aside, I am capa- women don’t say “it’s just too big” nearly Boys around campus were reprimanded It is no secret that this University is backgrounds over others who may be actively identifies heterosexuality as the only acceptable lifestyle choice, and ble of boiling a potato. Why students that often in real life. for reading their FHM; many fresher predominantly white and middle-class. more suitable for the role. is often accused of objectifying women. Furthermore, it isn’t just offensive to have to be subjected to the revival of a I object to FHM no more than I girls couldn’t get over their cellulite Indeed, you only have to glance at the In any case, elitism in education is one sex: plenty of men resent the signals it sends out about male culture. certain instant mash brand is beyond object to Cosmopolitan or Glamour. cream “hello” and I continue to stare in names of the writers in this humble pub- hardly a new phenomenon. For millen- The issue is not one of restriction or censorship. Men’s magazines will be me. Re-hydrated potatoes haven’t YUSU just got it wrong in thinking that wonder at my half-sized tin of beans. lication. But where exactly are all these nia, basic education was the preserve of sold as long as people buy them. Their promotion at a freshers’ event is a dif- become any more palatable and students most boys are as interested in nubile bi- The extent of insult caused by each undergraduates coming from? the wealthy and the powerful. It is only ferent matter. The fault does not lie with YUSU, except perhaps for the sin of are bums - or so I’m told - so I have more curious blondes’ (aka sexually deprived item is all a matter of opinion but nobody At the risk of number crunching, now, with the growing democratisation omission in not carefully scrutinising the deal beforehand. Rather, it lies with than enough time to mash my own computer geeks’) sexual fantasies, as me. can deny what a ridiculous grouping of let’s have a quick look at the statistics. In of society (thanks largely to the internet) those who aggressively market such damaging products. spuds, thank you. “Heteronormative” FHM may be, but on products it was. I don’t know what would the 2005/6 intake, just under 15% came that people are demanding change. This is surely a good opportunity for all those who felt that the giveaway But I’m skirting round the obvious its own it’s just a silly magazine. Yet be more upsetting: if Sam Bayley and from private schools – it’s not as high as The problem is, however, that sys- was irresponsible to make the case, as many already do, that students should sexism issue. I must clarify: I am not an paired with cellulite cream it carries a Matt Burton deliberately masterminded it is for Oxbridge, but given that only 7% tems do not change as quickly as people seek out and support causes, organisations and companies that promote a angry feminist, but FHM and chocolate much heavier gender message. the plan to put women in their place, or of all UK students are from these institu- would like. Attempts have been made, positive view of sexuality, one that leaves no-one feeling ignored. versus cellulite cream and deodorant? It’s stating the obvious to say that if, as is tragically the probable case, they tions, it’s still pretty disproportionate. and the educational system has been re- It’s a fairly clear message; boys sit back, giving out cellulite cream panders to our didn’t see the problem from the start. It is at this point that an ugly ques- organised many times, but to no avail. while girls get busy grooming. Oh and image-obsessed society, but if YUSU let And the beans! I just can’t get over tion rears its politically incorrect head: It is, to some extent, inevitable that Raiding the cellars also, ladies, even if you can eat a full tin it pass then maybe this does need to be the beans! I’m going to go and eat a isn’t this inevitable? students from wealthier backgrounds of beans, you shouldn’t, and because you made explicit. Perhaps one day I will be whole tin and hope I find the answer at There is a great deal of truth in the will possess an advantage in education, Drinking is a solid fixture of student life, and more often than not we are lack the restraint to eat only a ladylike fooled into buying a horribly expensive the bottom…hell, I might even have two. Freshers’ fair proves fertile for 2nd year art history student Dany Horwal old adage that you get what you pay for. but perhaps this should change through indifferent to sober advice that we ought to know and respect our limits. For If an establishment is earning several slow erosion and evolution rather than many, university is the first opportunity to test those limits, and it’s hardly a thousand pounds per pupil per term, rash measures and discrimination. shock that many exceed them, with painful and embarrassing results. then it will attract a higher standard of We are constantly bombarded with Both the University and the Union are in a precarious position when it teaching, and consequently, its students new ideas, and our modern sensibilities comes to alcohol. On the one hand, both have a welfare responsibility and may stand a better chance of getting into demand equally modern solutions. We should urge moderation. On the other, students expect fun, usually meaning Debate: Should we stay or should we go? selective universities such as York. expect situations to be resolved at the the booze flowing freely. YUSU’s Viking Raid events are a case in point. It is also true that students from pri- click of a mouse, but that is something Encouraging 1,700 students to descend on York, visiting venues well-known vate schools are less likely to be put off that isn’t always, or even often, possible. for efficiently causing a near-complete state of sensory deprivation, is not an obvious path to moderation, as ex-welfare officer Amy Burge has pointed out. Then again, YUSU could – entirely reasonably – argue that it’s not their Is NUS affiliation really all it’s cracked up to be? And can it possibly be worth £36,000 a year? Nicky Woolf and Francis Boorman debate what we ought to do... job to regulate students’ drinking: as adults, we ought to be able to do that ourselves. If they must get smashed, as many inevitably will, it’s surely preferable they do it at an event where there is plenty of help on hand. In this They have long experience of fighting for able in extending York’s LGBT, Environment Why pay for membership if nobody is particu- fees. This is a situation in which students came sense at least, Viking Raid is a responsible idea. student causes in both the courts and in and Ethics, and Racial Equality movements. larly interested in the work being done in their together nationally and protested with one Safety is only one part of the equation, though. There are plenty of stu- Parliament, and without them, we in York would Such movements are able, through the name? This is not just a cynical sigh about stu- voice. But that voice need not be mediated by dents on campus who, be it for religious reasons or simply as a matter of pref- Nicky Woolf be a very lonely and fairly small group of stu- NUS, to campaign on issues on a national scale Francis Boorman dent apathy. I would be interested to know if the NUS, who simply can’t justify themselves as erence, don’t wish to join the debauchery. For this significant minority, Contributing Writer dents striking out on our own against a rather than being limited to the local. Their legal Contributing Writer most students have any idea what the NUS leaders of a single issue campaign that most stu- there’s little on offer outside of their studies that lets them socialise with University which prioritises our needs and team will also be invaluable if any student socie- spends its time and their money doing. And if dents were passionate about anyway. Failure to other students. Indeed, it’s largely left to student societies to organise dry demands very low and always has one beady eye ty, or YUSU itself, is ever sued. Couldn’t hap- they did, would they necessarily agree? prevent the introduction of top-up fees shows activities on campus, and even then most societies (and here Nouse is no on the bottom line. pen? Try last year at Exeter University, where To give one example, the NUS LGBT offi- that the NUS lacks political leverage, particular- exception) indulge in a fair amount of recreational drinking. I’ll grant you, the NUS did not exactly the students’ union was sued by the Exeter cers have organised a campaign against bullying ly seeing as six of their former Presidents sup- It seems naïve to single out YUSU for organising Viking Raid, when all emerge victorious in the Tuition Fees debate. Christian Union over a disagreement about the in HE and FE institutions, entitled ‘Bullying ported the introduction of fees in the parliamen- it really represents is an attempt to organise and, to an extent, sanitise what Yes, it is a lot of money. We pay 36,000 pounds But they did their best, fighting the student CU’s evangelical policy. When your student The University of York pays a ridiculous Sucks’. They provide materials to encourage tary bill. already takes place most nights of the week. It’s important that students sterling for the privilege of NUS membership, a cause with vigour and admirable dedication. union stands to lose thousands, professional £36,000 each year for affiliation with the NUS. awareness of the issue, including ‘Bullying The NUS might be great as a springboard drink safely, and there’s always more YUSU and the University could do. membership which, on the face of it, doesn’t Even if they didn’t succeed in the end, they still legal experience comes in handy. Just by going to the NUS website, it is immedi- Sucks’ sweets. This Blue Peter style campaigning for launching a career in politics, but for the As a matter of priority, though, both should reassess whether they are mean much more than an expensive, fairly whipped up one hell of a storm in the process, It’s about being able to affect issues on a ately obvious what is most important in attract- is not something with which I particularly want average student it simply isn’t working. Leaving doing enough for students who don’t appreciate the pressure to drink, drink, pointless ID card and a lot of dull press-releases and catapulted the issue into the public arena. national as well as a local scale. A manufactur- ing their student members: large, colourful pic- to be affiliated. the NUS - something several universities drink. This would have a knock-on effect for all students, as it would help on purple-headed letter-paper. ing union fights for the rights of its members as tures of the new NUS Extra cards grab your around the country have recently done - would give lie to the notion that there’s no way to have fun sober. But those are not the real things that the and when it is required, and that is exactly what attention. not even have the effect of barring us from NUS does for students. Think about what the “When the chips are the NUS does for students, and it does it well. Yet these cost the individual £10 and offer “The NUS might be great involvement with national student issues. letters NUS stand for. National Union of It is our link to government, our lifeline to some pretty unimpressive discounts (a “stun- There is a slight hitch in the plan. It might Congratulations, Baroness Afshar Students. This is not a country club member- down, the NUS will fight the corridors of power that we have no real need ning” 10% off Matalan anyone?) which are gen- as a springboard for a be that the money paid to the NUS for affiliation ship, or a discount card company, this is a union, of... until we do. Sure, we could go it alone for a erally available anyway, if you can prove you’re a would not be made available for other purposes, Anyone who has ventured anywhere near the Politics department at York is an organisation whereby a large number of peo- our corner with clout while, perhaps for a long while. But, sooner or student. My York card has worked fine so far. career in politics, but for thus removing the financial incentive for leav- likely to have heard of Professor Haleh Afshar. A world-renowned expert on ple can be empowered by their unity. United we later, a time would come when we would need Money from the NUS Extra cards goes in part to ing. If this is the case it’s a real shame. Jealous the politics of Islam and feminism, it was last week announced that she will stand, and all that. YUSU only dream of” the NUS to back us up. funding our student union, but surely this would the average student it holders of budgets so often stand in the way of sit in the House of Lords as non-party political peer. Never one to mince her When the chips are down, the NUS will be It’s best to think of them as you would an be better done at a local level, providing greater change for the better. words, Haleh enjoys enormous popularity among students for her lively lec- fighting our corner, with amounts of legal and The NUS is also an invaluable way to share insurance policy. You don’t need it in the short accountability. simply isn’t working” Looking through the very glossy NUS tures and profound commitment to fairness and equality. financial clout that YUSU could only dream of, experience and information. They train all our term, and you feel like it’s a waste of money, but Given the number of people who manage to impact report for the last year, I just wasn’t con- Expressing her gratitude, she promised to take up her role as the “peo- and we pay so that not only can get that when we YUSU officers in how they might execute their when something unexpected happens, you’re get out and vote for YUSU motions, it isn’t sur- vinced that they make a real difference to stu- ple’s peer”. Coming from anyone else, this might sound like an empty plati- need it, but also so that other students at other positions, and while you might scoff at the suddenly pretty glad they’re there. prising that, even as members of the NUS, York The highest profile campaign that the NUS dents at The University of York. It’s time we set tude. We’re confident, however, that Haleh will prove to be the real deal. universities can get it too. necessity for such training, it has proved invalu- Yes, it is a lot of money. But it’s worth it. students are not a particularly active bunch. has recently been involved in was against top-up our own agenda and leave the NUS to theirs. >> MAN MAKE-OVER M6 >> TRAVEL M14 AUTUMN WEEK THREE decworkingstudentstbxaqpThe journey from student to style god The Iran behind the media coverage Tuesday October 23 2007 iuxgrmkpsqoelfbgrsbcdlmx kifoadhfxmbupqwfrtsrljmhMUSE wmoudzswpulsoxtllgosawo pghslwqlxaryibcemdklmxp uslzdeaktuodncvhdxmeewg ailpatbxaqpmuagrmkmlstlf bgnsmcdlmxkiroadhfxecup qwlrtfyplvbhtmoudzsrtrwo xgwlowbmwopghsmwqwoay ibcxmdkrlfrpuslzdmlklmce cbhdxmwoffnailpytbxawmi uxgrmktsqwelfbgrsbcdlewk ifoadhfxmbntqwfltsrpvlmh tmoudzswpm eoxgwgosglwo pghslwqlxaryibcxmdkglfr a uslzdeakluxaryibcxmdkgl l rpuslzdeakluodecbhdxmwl o foreignbeggarspsqoelfbg p sbcdlmxkifoaodecbhdxmw e ffgailpytbxaqpiuxgrmkps c oelfemalepoliticiansadhfi l i upqwfrtsrpnvbuxgrmvyqa M2 Columns 23/10/07 Muse 23.10.07 SaraSayeed James Cromwell Nicky Woolf chats to the Oscar- nominated star of Babe and LA Confidential >> M4 Why chivalry has From student to style god? Nouse reveals how to met a watery end break free of student style stereotypes without blow- ing your loan >> M6 fter the traumatic early to-a-tee version, whose flawless- this chivalry malarkey? Shall we weeks of term, a couple ly cut breeches are only attrac- blame those medieval legends of Foreign Beggars of friends and I fretfully tive because they give the coyly dropped Kleenex and Asearched for methods of impression of being a tad too hard-to-get minxes with unfea- Nouse chats to the UK hip hop collective about the best soothing the twitching and gen- snug. Chivalry isn’t dead, it’s just sibly long hair extensions? Yet, music in the world and gang culture eral mania of essay-induced not desired. let me remind you that the most >> M7 insomnia. One dismal day, while A brief review of literary desired knight of that era, Sir walking off the convulsions, we folklore heroes would suggest Lancelot, eschewed decorum chanced a glimpse of the cam- that conventional swoon- and ravaged his best mate’s wife. Textbooks vs. pus lake – and for the first time inducements are often grossly For the most part, Arthurian it spouted inspiration and not misconstrued. Emily Bronte’s Legend skipped over ‘nice guy’ payslips spurts of watered down bird Cathy and Heathcliff (from our Arthur and tended to focus We ponder the pros sewage. It was time for a date very own Yorkshire moors) offer more on his rakish band of with Darcy. Mmm, Mr. Darcy - an instructive example. In a knights. Arthur always gave the and cons of the part- the emblem, nay beacon, of mas- recent poll of the greatest love impression of being just a tad time job. Which side culine perfection. What better stories conducted by The too civil, the kind of guy who antidote to the last dregs of Guardian (even the news has may have pulled out the Sword are you on? >> M10 essay frenzy than slurring heat- occasional lulls, it would seem) from that auspicious stone but edly at the screen, “They just the fraught affair between Cathy probably had no idea how to, don’t make ’em like that any- and Heathcliff topped the erm, wield it. Practiced courtesy Amy Browne more, chivalry’s dead!” charts. Now, describing just isn’t what most women The Fusion chair and But then, as with most Heathcliff as decorous would be want. Mr. Collins tried it – and morning afters, I took some like referring to a pony with his bandy legged dancing and international model time to reflect on what induced alopecia as cute and fluffy. simpering flattery got him a ver- chats to us >> M12 the night before’s throes of pas- Heathcliff would probably be bal bitch slap from Lizzy. sion. Despite the wine, which as more likely to smack a door in Frankly the only ‘wet’ men that always mollified inhibitions, I Cathy’s face than open one for women want are of the post-lake found it difficult to believe that her to delicately step through. Darcy variety. From Maggie to Hillary it was Darcy’s acts of gallantry Furthermore, she would proba- Our modern equivalent of Jennifer O’Mahony takes a look at the impact that got us all hot and bothered bly re-open the door just to ‘courting’ offers a useful exam- and declaring his unparalleled thwack it back in his face. Their ple. A friend of mine recently women are having in the political world >>M15 glory, while lamenting the com- bond was a complex one of went on a romantic dinner date parative failings of what we’re fraught passion - so tempestu- with her long-term boyfriend. Arts: We chat to the writer Film: Control and The stuck with today. The Darcy of ous in fact, that the ‘zenith’ of Yet when I caught up with her, iconic status is the one moodily this passion was accompanied she rather forlornly sighed: and producer of new student Conversation >> M22 surveying the lake, plunging in by scrabbling, scratching and a “Yeh, it was alright, I guess. It’s play Wake Up Call >> M18 B&R: York’s best eating and then emerging all soaked smidgen of strangling. Yet, it just that he was being a bit too shirt and drops of water glisten- seems, the nation loves it. nice, he wouldn’t stop compli- Music: In Rainbows and establishments >> M23 ing from his perfectly tousled Probably because the majority menting me”. Obviously, my an interview with Vampire Listings: Dizzee Rascal hair, trickling down his side- shares in the notion that real heart bled for her. But in all seri- burns… sorry, I’ll refrain. But ardour is better marked by a few ousness, after getting over the Weekend >> M20 and karaoke >> M24 you have to agree, this is the bruises than exhibited via some initial resentment, I oddly Darcy we want, not the stifled, affected hanky dropping. enough found myself empathis- polite-conversation-rehearsed- So from whence came all ing. Being treated like a delicate

for many, but for those of us who’ve never hasn’t thought of me as an especially stu- AmyScott known life without it, plumbing problems pid little girl. This problem is exacerbated are a nightmare. My first real moment of by the sheer hilarity of negligence that can Turn on the water works homesickness during my fresher year be found in some student housing when it came when our hot water abruptly halted. comes to the water works. One house I had uman beings have a remarkable As I boiled the kettle for the third time to the pleasure of residing in, termed ‘the capability to adapt to new sur- wash my hair, the comforts of home had house that Jack built’ by one jovial Hroundings and situations. never seemed so distant. Halls, however, plumber, had the remarkable ability to However, instead of this enabling us to are by no means as bad as a ‘real’ house. In flood whenever the water was turned off at conquer any circumstance and triumph halls, just like when you were at home, the mains. over all adversity, in the case of students it plumbing problems are inconvenient, but Explaining this occurrence to already usually seems to mean we can adapt to it never falls to you to sort them out. condescending plumbers became a chore, feeling short-changed by any situation. En There’s nothing like a flooded kitchen until I would eventually give up and resort suite students in Alcuin will manage to greeting you in the morning to spur you to simply standing in the kitchen with my find just as much to complain about as the into genuine adult decision-making. mop ready and letting them work it out for kitchenless masses in Langwith, because Staying in all day waiting for the plumber themselves. Ultimately though, the vast we adjust to what has been provided for still feels like playing ‘house’, not least majority of us live in accommodation that us, and then whinge accordingly. when his arrival makes you feel like you’re is more than sufficient, and of consider- All of which makes it even more of a in a bad ‘70s sitcom. And I use ‘his’ here ably nicer quality than we would have shock when something that millions of deliberately. I’m sure there are plenty of faced a few decades ago. It’s just difficult to people take for granted goes wrong. Clean, female plumbers out there, I’m just yet to remember that sometimes, and extremely safe, running water may still be a dream meet one, and am also yet to meet one that easy to moan instead. 23/10/07 Columns M3 An indulgent few lines

The dawn breaks lazily over the lake. It is no longer freshers’ week, and there are no longer a large amount of people up to see it, other than the odd third-year and postgraduate student staying up late to do their dissertations or theses. This is a pity, because the dawn is rather nice today, crisp and blue and gold. We, in the Nouse office, are up to see the dawn, but we are bleary-eyed and weary-headed, and we have a lot of work yet to do. Every edition of the newspaper requires this ordeal. The night before the pages are sent in electronic form to the print press, every page, and there are 44 of them, must be laid-up - a process requiring a visual mind and some serious software - and checked, and double-checked, and signed off. All of which culminates in the fabled Production Night. This is an experience which many people have to suffer alone; the essay all-nighter is a fairly common phenomenon here. Few people experience the bizarre sensation of going slowly insane in a cosy, but irritatingly small office with a group of people with whom, after a few such nights, you have to either develop a sense of rapport with, or kill. There is no middle ground. There is an exacerbated air of tension this morning. The team in the office at the moment is one in flux. This is the very last edition of the current Nouse dynasty. Heidi Blake, as Editor, and Ellen Carpenter, as Muse Editor, have presided over a year of - if you will indulge me in a little soppiness and pride - unprecedented, glorious newspaper success. They flower all night is suffocating have led us as a team, taught us everything we know about and a little insulting. Darcy journalism, student or otherwise, and generally been all- never really flattered Lizzy. He Go on, gobble this one down round good sorts. They will be deeply missed by all of us, may have muttered a few veiled from their synchronised caffiene-induced hallucinogenic compliments about her reading Apparently there’s a new national watch Fern and Phil. While Fern, Phil breakdowns at 5am to their bizarre giggling fits. From Heidi’s under his privileged breath, but calamity brewing, or indeed swelling, and a child trainer chatted about the inspired battles with the powers that be to defend a story that in the pivotal scene when he into existence. Forget terrorism or perils of the Crunchie, the kids one of us has worked on from arbitrary censorship, to Ellen’s finally declares his passion for global warming, they veritably wane valiantly bounced around on inflat- stunning layups that wouldn’t look out of place in a design her, the way he chooses to do it in comparison to this far more hefty able animals and chucked Frisbees at showbook, let alone the Guardian. is through a series of insults. issue. Yes, the fearfully termed each other. Conveniently, said Frisbees Special mention this year must also go to: Camille Paglia once ‘Obesity Crisis’ has descended upon kept slipping through the little tykes’ Dan Whitehead, for his dogged and heroic determina- described the Elizabeth/Darcy us. already waning fingers (result!) caus- tion to plough on, despite all jests and jibes, to rescue what- rapport as a sequence of “epi- The other day while hanging ing them to waddle off a few miles in ever section is in need, whether it be sports or the website. grammatic thrusts”; suggesting around the gym, doing my bit to alle- retrieval missions. Sam Thomas for his pin-sharp but feather-light observa- that what makes their verbal viate this catastrophic crisis, I caught Unfortunately, while busy spawn- tions on every aspect of life, from the stories we cover to the sparring so engaging is that it my first sighting of the ‘combat obesi- ing a generation with thighs of steel, faux pas we make - and of course for his general wizardry. essentially constitutes 20 hours ty’ campaign. A bunch of cattle, sorry little has been done to market the Sara Sayeed for consistently being there with help or a (this is the BBC version, not children, were being herded onto a salad leaf as more appealing than a joke, and for continuing to call us “Nouselets” despite all evi- pouty-face-Knightley version) slew of stationary bikes and then Burger King burger. Perhaps, if those dence to the contrary. of purest foreplay. forced to peddle away while being ver- M&S food-porn adverts employed Jo Shelley for always, always having a new idea, and Flattery will only get you bally abused by GI Prick. Bono to teasingly sigh: “Crunchy, suc- always making sure the old ones work out. so far. Some wit may get you a I can’t say I wasn’t momentarily culent, iceberg lettuce leaf, tossed in a Amy, Amy, Ben, Dave and Albi for generally being awe- little further and if you top it all amused when one of the little ham- melange of grated carrot and juicy some, and for not calling us “Nouselets” the whole time... off by jumping into a lake clad sters was dragged off his bike and cucumber”, the crisis could be averted. The past year has been a real pleasure. The next will, if in a precariously thin white made to perform jumping jacks in Or not. Whichever way you cut it, the we are very, very lucky, be half as good. We can’t wait for shirt, who knows, we might front of the others, but after he col- fact remains: the cow still tramples another year working with all of you, if you’ll have us. even return the affections. lapsed I got bored and sauntered off to the foliage. Signed, The Nouselets

required.’ mini Northern paradise, we have fall- some decent trainers. Please. We VenetiaRainey A call for help. A call en into a rut. Ladies and gentlemen, entreat you. to arms. A call, in fact, we appear to have forgotten the end- 3. The high heel on campus. that, by happy chance, less possibilities of: The shoe. Girls, you have seen campus, yes? &Charlotte allows us to get a few However, Nouse readers, do not Concrete does not appreciate the little things off our fear. Grey Goose Martini and Vogue stiletto and, from that grating sound Kirkbride chests; have a wee rant, in hand, we have identified the three when you walk, the reverse is also if you will. worst offenders on the York shoe true. Should, or shoe-ldnt, you? Ah shoes. Blister- menu. We ask only that you hear us So there it is. Our short yet inducing, pain-exciting out. unforgiving list. We do not demand a Dragging on cigarettes and sharing adornments of the feet. 1. The Ugg boot. Mocked merci- revolution, nor banner waving, nor a lettuce leaf, Ms C and Ms V pon- Glittery, patent, lessly even by those who themselves indeed drug-induced chanting. dered an alarming message that heeled, flat, pointed, don them (and to this sin we Instead we ask only this: an explo- had arrived in an empty Pinot Noir clackety, night-defin- remorsefully raise our hands). A ration of the unknown, dear children. bottle that floated through the ing shoes. So many cross between a teddy bear and a Greek sandals, S&M platforms, morning mists that hug the cam- poor little toes rammed Wellington boot, and an opportunity shoes made out of bin bags, even pus lake. ‘Ms C and Ms V,’ it read, mercilessly into so for us to emulate having the feet (and those little trainers that have wheels ‘my faux Uggs combusted quite many unforgiving, limp stunted, shuffling walk) of a caterpil- in the bottom favoured by ASBO chil- spontaneously the other day. I creating shoesies. So lar. dren. Get creative. We would say the am now reduced to cowering much choice, so many wrong 2. Hiking boots. Are you really world is your oyster, but this is the shoeless under my bed. decisions. Sadly it appears about to climb a mountain? Do you University of York, so perhaps we’d Immediate assistance that here, in our very own really, really like computers? Just buy better just go with ‘whelk’... M4 Interview 23/10/07 James Cromwell: King Lear, Babe and the Black Panthers

Actor, activist and self-styled philosopher James Cromwell has starred in everything from 24 to Shakespeare. Nicky Woolf talks to the man himself about bringing the Bard to life and fighting for justice for the innocent, whether human or porcine

ames Oliver Cromwell has enor- ping a stone across the water. They duced his master-class series, causes that define him than this single, mous hands. His handshake is come out, because those notes, that Cromwell explains the meaning of act- high-profile case almost 40 years ago. crushing, certain and intense, chord...” ing, as he sees it, to a room of amateur Indeed, Cromwell has nailed his Jand goes on for slightly longer He pauses and breathes deeply, actors, directors and producers. “It’s colours to a forest of masts. A former than is usually comfortable, giving me like a preacher waiting for an “amen”. not about meaning,” he begins expan- treasurer of the left-wing actors’ union the feeling I’m being weighed-up, con- His gestures are exuberant and expres- sively. “It’s about full self-expression. the Screen Actors Guild, Cromwell sidered. “Shall I send you a script, sive, but also awkward and halting; the It’s about who you are as an artist. Your became a vegetarian in 1974 after wit- James?” a brazen but ambitious stu- gestures of a tall man who perhaps has instrument, your breath, your life, your nessing the “fear and horror” of a Texas dent playwright asks, jokingly, and for never become truly comfortable with passions, far exceed any text you will slaughter-yard, and an ethical vegan a moment he feels the force of his size. He speaks with arms out and ever deal with.” He pauses for effect. after making the film Babe in 1995. He Cromwell’s gaze. “Yes,” says the palms upward, and his metaphors are “This... is not necessarily true of is also a campaigner and patron of the Hollywood star loudly and deliberately. almost entirely musical, of Bach and of Shakespeare.” SaveBabe campaign in Australia, “Yes, absolutely do so.” Mozart, of chords and of notes. He which “highlights the suffering of fac- The room, previously filled with talks of a bad Shakespeare perform- tory farmed pigs in Australia.” the low buzz of conversation, momen- ance in terms of a Mozart recording “Making the movie Babe opened tarily quietens. “Oh... ok.” says the stu- played on a bad gramophone, but then my eyes to the intelligence and the dent, nervously, as Cromwell fixes him implies that the fault lies with the lis- inquisitive personalities of pigs,” says with a look his namesake might have tener who cannot hear the genius Cromwell in a press statement for fixed on a traitorous cavalier. There is a beneath the “crackling static”. SaveBabe. “These highly social animals momentary, awkward pause before “You may be only playing the sim- possess an amazing capacity for love, Cromwell’s face cracks into a mischie- ple melody because that’s really all joy and sorrow that makes them vous grin. “Always looking for more we’re capable of as actors,” he goes on. remarkably similar to our beloved work,” he drawls, “acting pays peanuts, “We’re pretty straightforward. You canine and feline friends. In fact, the didn’t you know that?” have your feelings, you have your scientific advisor to the British govern- James Cromwell – Jamie, as he instrument. If you’re really good at ment says that pigs are smarter than swiftly has everyone in the room call- your instrument you can know where dogs and even do better on intelligence ing him – has acting in his blood. The to pitch it, what the various tones tests than 3-year-old human children.” son of a successful big-screen actor and mean. If you’re very, very good as an My impression of Cromwell is of a director and an equally successful actor you can begin to breathe with the man with a very active conscience. He actress, he was transplanted from Los audience. If they begin to inhale when talks to me of lofty ideas, reluctant to Angeles to Manhattan when very you inhale, and exhale when you even acknowledge the existence of the young. He has an expansive East-West exhale, they’ll begin to feel as you feel.” “Yes, I did work for the mundane and the lacklustre. He refus- American drawl, which slightly blind- He talks as if educating a child. es to acknowledge the concept of play- sides me. A Jamie Cromwell with an He radiates an air of caring paternal- Panthers,” he says, with an air ing a part in a ‘true’ story like The American accent is unfamiliar and ism, which may go some way to Queen. “Art is always a fiction,” he says incongruous to a British audience who explaining how often he plays the wise of finality, then turns a fierce insistently, “because it’s not happening. associates him with the immortal father. He played Jack Bauer’s father in It doesn’t co-exist in the same space at Yorkshire growl of, “That’ll do, pig.” season six of the TV drama 24, was a gaze on to me. I take the hint” the same time, therefore art is always Cromwell is an imposing figure. father figure to the world’s best-loved an abstraction.” I think I understand. Six feet seven inches tall, he towers pig in Babe, and father again to the So often, a so-called ‘true story’ will over me as I retrieve my slightly love-interest in Blackball. He was Cromwell is not a man who shies bend the truth, even lie, to retell histo- crushed hand from his grip. His height father of the American nation as a for- away from such a challenge as ry the way the writers want. gives him a powerful stage-presence, mer President in The West Wing, and Shakespeare presents, however. A man I ask if there is a danger that peo- even when he isn’t acting, which hints to the British nation as Prince Philip in who seems to accumulate causes as fast ple will take the story for history, but at a lifetime of treading a variety of the movie The Queen with Helen as he accumulates acting parts, he even Cromwell reacts violently to the word. boards and studio floors. His eyes have Mirren. became a member of the Black “History!” he exclaims, “History is only an almost trademark twinkle to them. But Cromwell is haunted by Panthers in 1969 when he joined the the record of those people who won, He is here at York accompanying a visions of another father. He once told ‘Committee to Defend the Panthers’. and most history is just... a bloody lie. friend of his, fellow American and York a CNN reporter: "It's like people say, This group was set up to free the The more you dig,” he says, his con- Theatre Royal’s Playwright-in- 'Why would you ever want to climb ‘Panther 13’, 13 members of the radical temptuous sneering tone betraying a Residence, Donald Freed. Freed is run- Everest?' But those that do, those that civil rights group that had been impris- very personal grievance, “the less you ning a series of master-classes in York, climb, those that have... that's the deal. oned in New York on conspiracy know about what actually happened. and on campus, on writing and per- To have gone up Everest.” His Everest? charges. The campaign was successful It’s only the history of those very formance, and Cromwell is magisteri- “For an actor, there's no greater climb in winning freedom for the interred wealthy individuals that history choos- ally in attendance. When Freed has fin- than Lear. Lear is the ultimate moun- activists, who were acquitted of all 156 es to point out.” ished his monologue, Cromwell stands tain. You're not going to make it, but charges against them in 1971. “What happens to the guy who up and makes an impassioned speech it's OK." I ask about his work on the fought the war?” he says, waving his about Shakespeare’s words in Hamlet Shakespeare is of vital importance Committee. “Yes, I did work for the long arms about his head in a gesture from an actor’s point of view. “When to Cromwell. He is the ultimate excep- Panthers,” he says, with an air of finali- of frustration. “What happens to Joe he’s in the room,” he begins, meaning tion that proves every rule about the- ty, then turns a fierce gaze on to me. I Blow, who fought the Irish campaign Shakespeare, “his ideas, his words atre and performance art. In his take the hint, and move on. I suspect under Cromwell?” Ah, and the name- reverberate, they ping off us like skip- speech after Donald Freed has intro- that Cromwell feels there are more sake returns. I begin to wonder exactly 23/10/07 Interview M5 OLLIT JONES OLLIT

how Jamie Cromwell feels about the Oscar nominee don’t mean to say that we don’t have I think I have pinned down what I But in a very human way, Jamie man who killed a king, with whom he James Oliver some wonderful intellectuals and some find so intriguing about Jamie Cromwell finds himself unable to reach shares a name. Cromwell is wonderful writers, but they tend to be Cromwell. Like a preacher losing his this understanding or, at least, unable If, as Cromwell suggests, time and renowned for more for the cognoscenti than to be faith, there is a barely detectable sense to truly vocalise it to himself or others. death are relative things, and through his left-wing understood and appreciated by the of melancholy to him. His on-screen He speaks in very definite terms, every thoughts, through art, a man can live general public.” character has all the answers, all the sentence constructed vehemently and again, then surely there is a twisted firebrand This is the duality of Jamie wisdom, and in person you can almost with conviction, and loves to set chal- symmetry to Cromwell’s critically disposition Cromwell. His hope that everyone can buy into that for a while. It’s only when lenges. acclaimed portrayal of Prince Philip on understand the truth and art encom- you go back and look at what he’s actu- “Make something of that, I dare the silver screen? passed in theatre is set violently against ally said that you realise that this is a ya,” he says with a grin at the end of our Cromwell seems at his core to be his almost paranoid doubt that the man who can feel himself coming so interview, as if he’s left me a puzzle. But in a state of ideological flux. He is general public is capable of under- close to understanding - an under- Cromwell is tortured by the puzzles he grasping for a set of ideas, about truth, standing it. In fact, a little while after I standing that he has translated into sets himself. He is a genuinely fascinat- about leadership, about right and met him, he had a shouting match with Shakespearean imagery; the perfect ing man, and a genuinely wise one. wrong, but is confronted at every turn a particularly stubborn student who Lear, the perfect Hamlet, the bard However, I am left feeling somewhat with problems and paradoxes. He is had asked him to whom exactly he kept “speaking directly to you from the saddened. Jamie Cromwell is a puzzle, tangibly proud of his homeland, yet referring to by a sinister “them”. ether”. and I don’t think there is an answer. berates it for having “a very classist the- atre that mostly puts on crap. “In America there was no tradition DONALD FREED AT THE THEATRE ROYAL of the theatre. They tried to impose one, but America is polyglot. You James Cromwell was at York to support the His insights into Hamlet are both couldn’t take immigrants from masterclass program put on by Donald insightful and interesting, and I am wholly Germany, Poland or even Ireland and Freed, a man whom Harold Pinter called “a taken in by the way he switches with schiz- show them a work - mainly melodrama writer of blazing imagination, courage and ophrenic suddenness from persona to per- and mainly crap - and hope to develop insight.” Freed, who can boast three sona. First roaring with Hamlet’s voice, and any sort of theatrical community,” he Rockefeller awards, an NEA award for then instantaneously and seamlessly says sadly. ‘Distinguished Writing’, a Hollywood becoming the calm commentator again. Unlike Europe, where for the most Critics Award and a Pen Drama Prize, is Based on this experience, the master- part Cromwell observes a class system currently Playwright-in-Residence at the classes that Freed is running over the next in decline, “America was actually strat- Theatre Royal in York . few weeks at the Theatre Royal promise to ifying into classes. We don’t have a lit- Freed is a mesmerising speaker. It is be fascinating at the very least. erary tradition. We’re anti-intellectual.” impossible to tell from his speech whether Freed has a new play coming out in He catches himself, and his left hand he is speaking off the cuff or performing a early 2008 called Patient No. 1, which will twitches upwards, as if to catch the pre-rehearsed monologue, but it hardly be performed at the York Theatre Royal. statement before it can reach me. “I matters as the audience is just as spell- For tickets and info visit: mean in terms of popular culture. I bound either way. www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk Dominic Freed, winner of several awards M6 Fashion 23/10/07

icky Woolf, like many men, (rather than the Hoxtonite colour clash Student life doesn’t lend and especially male students, that I parade around in). I chose a has cast the shackles of fash- muted grey shirt and patterned tie to itself to sartorial elegance. Nion from his daily routine, provide a look for a smarter occasion. proclaiming it too much effort. All too Nicky, however, was by this time fully often the idea of choosing an outfit with engaged with the whole process, and Liam O’Brien and a sense of proportion and taste taps adventurously selected a pink shirt (a into that most sensitive of male neu- key colour for this season), a red ver- roses, the one involving perceived man- sion of the same tie to complement it, Venetia Rainey hit town hood. In the same flippant way ancient some decent shoes (winkle pickers), man would kill, eat and wear an animal, and suit trousers. After a bit of experi- to help one hapless Nicky shops haphazardly, incorrectly mentation, we found that a more casu- and with bitter notions of social obliga- al waistcoat worked better with the ensemble than a fussier, more tailored second year one ripped with unfathomable lack of shame from Hedi-Slimane’s Dior ‘He turned up Homme catwalk collections. The look was a success because whilst it was nei- wearing a potato- ther overly serious nor ostentatious, it did embrace Nicky’s natural humour sack of a jacket, and vitality. Smart outfits have a ten- dency to produce discomfort in those dire sneakers and not accustomed to wearing them and this is because most men opt for the a one-size-fits- ‘box suit’ – unfitted, dull and selected so that if drinks are spilt over the awkward none Goodricke garment, it is not a matter of any great importance. Topman is usually best for College t-shirt’ the ‘Rexy’ brigade, but does decent, fairly cheap clothes for most occasions tion. Luckily, the high street’s miracu- and sizes. lous improvements in regard to both Our final venture of the day was women’s and mens’ fashion over recent Joy. Nicky, perhaps endowed of a new- years means that it is relatively easy to found knowledge of clothes, or, more purchase clothes that work a look other likely, desperate to please Venetia and than hobo-chic for a relatively low myself (who felt that he should buy One man’s journey from scruff to buff

price. Mannequins provide a reference something as a show of gratitude for point, as do the more styled individuals our stylish selections and changing- in society. It is just the mental hurdle room espionage photography) actually that remains the problem. reserved some clothes for future pur- However, Venetia and I did not chase. Joy takes ideas for a great many allow this problem to rise from the dark of its clothes from MAN at Vivienne recesses of the male psyche during our Westwood, resulting in excellently shopping trip around York, and man- structured cardigans that make the aged to give this most unstyled of crea- body look taut regardless of whatever tures a new image which we hope he faux-pregnancy horrorshow you may be will carry around campus. The full carrying around. The shop also pro- extent of the problem had become clear vides a good range of inexpensive jeans the night before, when Nicky uninten- that aren’t exclusively for the ‘Two- tionally wore a summer shirt inside- Twigs’ battalion. Nicky’s outfit from Joy out, a look he would apparently nor- works because the short, checked jack- mally accompany with a straw hat. He et evokes not only a kind of ‘rocker-cool’ turned up on the day wearing a potato- but additionally screams ‘investment sack of a jacket, peasant cloth roughly purchase’ in that tone that people use to formed into the shape of jeans, some justify high-priced items. It’s classic dire sneakers and a one-size-fits-none and could go with most things, other Goodricke College t-shirt, the job to than, of course, check trousers. (Unless improve his look would at least be easy. you’re from Tokyo’s Harajuku district or Perhaps we learn in primary school that are modelling 1980’s Vivienne shapelessness is acceptable, when Westwood, which is about as fun to mother is on a crazed mission to buy look at as the polar bear dying on anything bearing the school logo two ‘Planet Earth’.) The t-shirt it is teamed days before the start of term. It isn’t. with is designed with a simple ‘smiley’ The first outfit we cajoled Nicky motif. The jacket also served to cover into trying on was an H&M beige mac any bumps that the t-shirt exposed, and (inspired, like all the clones, by so even when teamed with Nicky’s Burberry) with a decent pair of fitted gleaming white Armani trainers, the jeans. Anything belted around the mid- outfit was successful. dle gives immediate cut and a waist, a The murky world of campus dress- look which men should get used to and ing definately needs an overhaul, and practice, as puffer jackets and tradition- not only is it possible on a student al men’s coats rarely look good. The part budget, it also helps to escape the cam- of the leg that appears from under a pus bubble. You may not feel the need mac is generally the thinnest and best to dress up when you see the same peo- Above: our fashion team’s victim, Nicky Woolf, in his defined and, crucially, can make the ple every day, but even if you believe own student attire. Above right: Nicky finds his outfit effortlessly stylish. that dressing for them is a plastic, smart side with Topman. Below right: a picture of Topman proved a revelation. I superficial affair, then at least dress for endeavoured to provide Nicky with out- yourself. ‘I’m a student’ may be a look, ‘rocker-cool’ in Joy jacket, t-shirt and jeans fits that were realistically wearable but it’s not always a good one. 23/10/07 Interview M7 ‘Blame the f***ing government’

all this, MCs along with Orifice On a less cheesy note, guys like Doom spits vehemently. “The funny thing is From the sick to the very Vulgatron as part of the Beggars crew. for his originality and general sickness, middle-class white America made that Months later, having listened to Pharoahe Monch for being the illest shit popular! And it’s a similar situa- ill indeed, Venetia Rainey their various albums and EPs (for an lyricist alive, Jehst for being the sickest tion over here now where middle-class introduction I suggest Asylum producing lyricist on the face of the England are championing grime music, Speakers), I decided to catch up with earth, or maybe that would actually be ‘cause it gives them a sneak peek into a talks to UK band Foreign Metropolis and try to get an insight into Necro - naah! I can't support that bull- world they're fascinated by but could the state of UK hip hop today. shit! - El-P [El-Producto] for constant- never, and would never, want to be a Beggars’Metropolis about “I guess it’s easy for guys to say ly showing the mainstream the middle part of.” That, along with how the we're an imitation of what’s happening finger. Jay Dilla was the man though. music actually sounds, I think silently, in the States.” Metropolis begins, “To Actually he gets the most respect on all being myself a middle-class girl who all things hip hop some extent we are, but that doesn't levels.” ‘Ill’ by the way, means good, as avidly consumes a genre of music con- change the fact that there's some seri- does ‘sick’. This is London slang, and it cerned primarily with a world which, I K hip hop is a tricky genre to ous shit happening here. We're where is this quintessential London mentality admit, I would never want to be a part define. Some people argue US hip hop was at before everyone got that oozes from Foreign Beggars’ every of. that it is just a pale imitation big and they started churning out bland Their wide ranging fan base (from Uof the original American hip shit. I can easily draw parallels between middle-class to pretty much anyone) is hop, a music born in the basements of Taskforce and Organised Konfusion. ‘We’re where US hip clearly reflected in the various locations New York at the moment when MCs “I think the scene has some pretty that Foreign Beggars have been sneak- and DJs decided to mix together their sick rhymers and producers, and it’s hop was at before ing us a peek of their phenomenal beats respective talents. Some people daub it getting bigger and better everyday. I and lyrics across the UK (and Europe). with the tainted brush of grime, calling think we need to have more infrastruc- people got big and Including, of course, York. “Yeah, we to mind more mainstream artists like ture though, more hip hop nights, and played in York. Mad love to what we Dizzee Rascal, Wiley or, dare I say it, we definitely need more support from started churning call 'Bobcat' who've brought us out Lady Sovereign. the industry.” Support from an industry there the past few times. Those are our There is, however, a middle which, as becomes more and more evi- out their bland shit’ peoples. Shout out to Fenna Rhodes as ground. A genre of music which has dent, would rather promote main- well.” This “shout out” is curiously fit- taken the best of both worlds and has stream “bland shit” than new and more song that, for many, makes them so ting considering that was how rappers ended up with a versatile sound with financially risky material. Thus, pre- addictive. It is, as he astutely puts it, “a first began, by literally introducing, or attitude, soul-crushing beats and an sumably, why Foreign Beggars felt the London ting”, and anyone from London shouting out, their friends and the DJs incredibly high standard of rapping, or need to set up their own label, Dented is able to instantly connect with this at a show. Thus they became ‘MCs’, rhyming. Foreign Beggars encapsulates Records, to promote UK hip hop artists aspect of their music. which of course normally stands for everything good about UK hip hop. otherwise neglected and voiceless. But despite the obvious talent, Master of Ceremonies. From the chilled out melodic vibes of Sadly, it is still very much “the industry” ambition and energy that pulses Our conversation draws to a close ‘Mind Out’ (ft. Skrein), to the notorious that controls what and who we get to through hip hop (UK or not), for many as I ask about any particularly insane aggressiveness and tongue-tying raps of hear in terms of music. Unless, of there will always be the shadow of the performances. “There’s been some hec- ‘Hold On’, Foreign Beggars’ style is not course, you go looking for the un-cham- inescapable dark side: the gangster and tic ones. We played a gig at an Oxford easily pinned down or summed up. So pioned, slightly less glossy stuff. gun culture. “It’s part and parcel of hip ball and had the guys moshing in their A London thing; when they came to play in York earlier “Dubbledge, Ghost Town, Hudson hop music, but it’s not the be all and tuxedos and ball gowns. We even made Foreign this year, in the suitably incongruous Mohawke, Jid Sames, Fallen Angel, Mr end all. When you think about it, guys them stamp out the expensive-ass gera- arena of the Working Men’s Club on St Dick, Stig and [Dr.] Syntax, London like N.W.A, [Ice] Cube, the whole niums and shit! We got mad stories, Beggars L-R: Lawrence Street, I seized the opportu- Zoo”, Metropolis lists without pausing Death Row collective, whatever, all but I won't go into depth about any producer Dag nity to see what they were all about. for breath. “Skrein’s got some dope stuff started out giving social commentary ‘cause I don't wanna Nabbit, The result was not quite what I coming out, and I know Mad Head’s on what their situation was like in the incriminate the mans Metropolis, expected. Never mind the fantastic per- doing ill shit from all different genres” ghetto. You wanna know who's to dem. What hap- Orifice formance, by the end of the night I was There is no shortage of artists pioneer- blame? Blame the fucking govern- pens on the chatting to Metropolis ing UK hip hop, apparently, they just ment! Rappers wouldn't rap so road and all Vulgatron, DJ himself, who, for don’t necessarily get played on Radio 1 dang violent if young blacks dat…” No Names, and those new to or Choice FM as much as, say, weren't neglected by a racist beat boxer American hip hop. mainstream society, born into a Shlomo We move away from the situation of severe poverty UK “ting”, and onto the where crime and sport are the music-makers he rates, two main ways young people feel British or otherwise. they can get rich.” “I'm gonna be a bit These seem like hasty words, but cheesy here and say then again, who am I to argue with Orifice is definitely up someone who has grown up in a com- there. Dude works pletely different world from my own, a hard. From running the world in which his nickname at school label, to being the crazi- was ‘Faeces’ (“Racist fucks!”). Orifice est guy you've seen on Vulgatron’s too was ‘Brown Eye’. stage, to dropping the “Multicultural England? My ass!” illest verses in the Me tropolis studio; he gets the most respect. M8 What’s on 23/10/07 The bigger picture: a month

ears ranging from rain to arrest From Oxfam’s Stand Up Against Poverty to York’s first ever Black raced haphazardly through my mind as my alarm clock herald- History Week organised by the Afro-Caribbean Society, look Fed, with chirpy optimism, that dawn had finally broken. International beyond your books and bevvies this month, says Emily Cousins Poverty Eradication Day had finally arrived. Despite sounding terribly melodramatic, this was certainly a big deal for four Oxfam activists freshly graduated from the 2007 Change Programme. We felt committed, we felt impassioned. We were ready. Neon t-shirts, street percussion, fluorescent whistles, four-foot banners, new friends, old friends and 24 metres of white sheet combined to form our stand against poverty as we joined mil- lions of others around the world cele- brating this event. Our objectives were dual pronged: we wanted to raise awareness about those suffering in eco- nomical inequality and also gather sig- natures of support for a petition on cli- mate change. This December, world leaders will attend the UN Climate Change Conference in Indonesia to decide on a proactive policy to prevent and stabilise our impact on the envi- ronment; an issue that massively affects the poor. Global warming however also carries a local warning. The floods of this summer in the UK show us that it is becoming an increasingly prevalent problem in our own communities, espe- cially here in North Yorkshire. We hope that the names of those who signed the Oxfam petition will carry some author- ity of conscience and force action in the smoke filled board rooms. Sadly there were only a dedicated few and a sprinkling of confused bystanders on campus to witness our efforts there. Though numbers were down, spirits were up, and come the golden fifteen-minutes-past-the-hour that is lecture change overs, we had

quite a steady crowd of students enter- ing the smile, sign, sticker production line. Later in the day a carnival lead by a fantastic samba band erupted in St Sampson’s Square. We pledged our dedication to the Millennium Goals in front of a crowd of around 80 people and even managed to get home in time for tea - quite literally, at the Ethics and Environment Teaparty where we con- tinued to petition our fair trade cotton socks off. It was humbling to think that all over the world, for that moment, we were all the same. As the day wore on, however, I began to think about what we were trying to promote. Tomorrow, I would return to my cushy campus lifestyle where a looming essay deadline was my most immediate worry. But for thousands taking part in Stand Up Against Poverty there is a vested inter- est beyond that of philanthropy. 23/10/07 What’s on M9 to stand up and be counted

Through no fault of their own, poverty Other page: One day is not going to change all is their life. showing of this, but I hope we contributed to The struggle to cultivate ground worldwide laying the foundations of thought that cracked with drought and to harvest solidarity. may help to solve the largest problem crops ruined by flooding occurs all over facing our generation. And this is just the world. Every drought and flood that This page: the beginning: we’ve many more Oxfam occurs knocks back the economy of a spreading the events coming up over the next few developing country by roughly seven word on months. These will include film show- years. Starvation, famine, exploitation campus. Below: ings, Oxjam concerts, ethical con- and injustice: these words epitomise a Afro-Carribean sumerism awareness, and some work to global problem that peaks at unaccept- improve gender equality and access to able levels in the developing world. Society education. In truth, the unequal distribution rehearse. So a huge thank you to all who of international wealth is so staggering Photos by supported the ‘Stand Up’ campaign in that we cannot even begin to picture Emily Cousins York. It was a real team effort brought the 1.3 billion faces of those trapped in and Venetia to fruition by the commitment of many the cyclical drudgery of poverty. But individuals and I felt hugely moved to these numbers become still more har- Rainey be part of it. We contributed 270 to rowing. Remove the decimal point and make the world record attempt this change a letter and you have a rough year. That makes me pretty proud. And estimate for how the poverty trap man- now that I’ve overcome the potential ifests itself on a local level. 13 million: awkwardness and embarrassment of the number of people in the UK living that first time campaign I’d like to below the poverty line. Worse than that, shake it up a bit, get creative and make some noise. Things are about to get wild… To get involved please check out ‘Starvation, famine, exploitation our ‘Oxfam in York’ Facebook group or and injustice: these words email ec522 or ke507. We’d love to have epitomise a global problem of BLACK HISTORY MONTH; A PERSPECTIVE. BY IKE OGBODO

frankly unacceptable levels’ his month, Africans and recently strived to help improve the killings in the northern states of Caribbeans in Britain and the rights of Africans and Caribbeans in Nigeria against Igbo immigrants nearly half the world’s population lives TUnited States will be celebrating their newly adopted homes and regain prompted the then eastern governor, on less than two dollars a day. That’s 2.8 the origins of their forefathers during lost power in their own lands. Often Colonel Chukwuemeka Ojukwu, to billion people. 2.8 billion people have Black History Month. At our universi- there are lost stories and struggles declare Biafra an independent entity one pound available to share between ty this will be celebrated in Week 3, where the histories of our countries are from Nigeria. This was an attempt to themselves and their families every day. between October 22 and 28, with a dif- forgotten. It is easy to celebrate and free the Igbos from persecution from In Vanbrugh, that would buy you just ferent theme and different events talk about what has happened in the new Hausa-Yoruba (the other half a baguette. occuring each day of the week. Britain and America, but we forget the biggest sectors) political alliance. The Hopefully yesterday you will have seen daily struggles of those in Africa - the Civil War ended on January 12 1970, people donning traditional clothes for civil wars that have gripped and ripped but only after it had claimed the lives all of York to see, and appreciated, the our nations apart and the atrocious of more than 2 million people. BLACK HISTORY WEEK AT YORK variations in styles and the colourful episodes of genocide that have Ahmadou Ahidjo, who formed MONDAY, October 22 features of African wear. destroyed and drastically restricted the l’Union Camerounaise political party Traditional Wear Day I had never really celebrated great potential Africa possesses to be in 1958, fought for the independence Traditional African Caribbean attire will be worn through- Black History Month in past years. Yet, the most prosperous of continents. of Cameroon from its British and out the day. whenever the month came around The great leaders that strived for the French colonial masters. After a few (every two years in October), discus- independence of the African nations years of unrest and relatively small TUESDAY, October 23 sions detailing the struggles of peoples never really seem to be realised in riots (compared to those experienced Honour Day (6pm-9pm), V/045 of African ancestry in Britain and the Black History Month. in Nigeria and Biafra), Cameroon Including a black history debate with the Debating Society. United States would occupy the head- In both British and American managed to gain full independence on Followed by a guest speaker, personal presentations, drama lines and be at the fore of discussions. society there are large numbers of New Years Day, 1960. It was then that and dance performances by ACS, and a film. Martin Luther King, Jr, Malcolm X Nigerians that celebrated a unification of the French-speaking and Nelson Mandela are Independence Day on October 1 south and the English-speaking north WEDNESDAY, October 24 among many that have but the names of those that was finally established. Hair & Beauty Day (7pm-8pm), G/020 helped Nigeria gain independ- In April 1980, Rhodesia gained A fashion show displaying the latest trends in African and ence from the British independence following civil war and Caribbean clothing, hair and beauty. Empire in 1960 are omit- was given its current title of ted. Nnamdi Azikiwe Zimbabwe. Following years of battling THURSDAY, October 25 might ring a bell for the against the Smith government who Debate Evening (6pm-8pm), V/045 masses in Nigeria that had been pushing legislation through Join ACS and the Debating Society to discuss current celebrate their inde- in favour of white rule, Abel Muzorewa issues related to black history. pendence but for those and Joshua Nkomo helped the people abroad it is simply of Zimbabwe to regain power over FRIDAY, October 26 another name. While their land. The initial works of these MoTown (9pm-2am) England prepared for courageous men succeeded in giving ACS & Platinum host MoTown at Alcuin’s B. their victorious World back the people of Zimbabwe control Henry’s with a karaoke hour. Cup in 1966, the Biafra over their country, something they had War (Nigerian Civil War) lost just under a century before. SATURDAY, October 27 had begun between Biafra The names I have mentioned are Love Music Hate Racism (9pm-2.30pm) and Nigeria. Yet another some of the names I think we should Live DJs, a live band (Apply the Brakes) & per- fact people forget. For the be hearing in Black History Month. formances by ACS, Dance Soc, Capoeria, Samba majority that have no idea The stories behind these names and band plus a special guest from London. what or where Biafra was, it the stories of what they fought for are Music: R&B, Hip Hop, Bashment, Funky House, was a short-lived independ- the true stories of black history. Drum & Bass, Chart and Cheese. ent country in the south- Currently, all we celebrate is the histo- Venue to be confirmed. eastern region of Nigeria ry of rights in other continents and the which was occupied mainly fight for changes to their constitutions. SUNDAY, October 28 by the Igbo-speaking sector For me, history starts at home, and we Dinner at Vudu Lounge. in Nigeria. Conflicts and should be careful not to forget that. M10 Talking point 23/10/07 Many students pale at the thought of adding a job to their degree timetables but, says Helen Citron, part-time work can provide more than extra cash

’m stressed, I’m sweaty and I’ve be a problem. Keeping shifts limited to manager and fellow, equally harassed Many students work at just spilled soup onto a business- weekends, when the pace of university waiting staff is essential if you’re going restaurants and bars for man’s crotch. ‘Why on earth am I life slows, and ensuring that you are to deliver any kind of service. cash during term time Ihere?’ is a question that runs clear about when you cannot work through my mind on a not infrequent should ensure a healthy balance. basis during my shifts as a waitress at one of York’s upmarket eateries. The answer for me and for most ‘Answering Being part of students who choose to get a job during an industrious, practical, profit- term-time is, of course, primarily finan- questions about the making environment is stimulating in a cial. Being a student is an expensive different way to the academic rigour of business and for those that receive no soup of the day is university life and is good preparation financial help from parents the student for the majority of graduates who will loan simply doesn’t suffice. I do count refreshing after a enter the business world. Many of us myself lucky; for me a job is not a strict hope to achieve a good final degree necessity. Having one means I don’t feel day in the library’ mark whilst working part time. If, anxious about dwindling funds come despite the apparent difficulties inher- the end of term and keeps the bottom of ent in maintaining a job alongside stud- my overdraft at a reassuring distance. Aside from the financial gain, my ies, we manage to do this it is surely only have to The general consensus seems to be job has bought quite a few less expected indicative of an industrious and organ- face the endless that getting a job at university will be benefits. Being a waitress is by no ised character. demands of cus- damaging both academically and means relaxing, but it does provide It may be difficult to believe, but tomers and the socially and this can be true. Obviously something of an antidote to university work can also be fun. Never have I boredom of polish- each case is different. For those with life. Having to answer customers’ ques- experienced so much gossip, rumour ing cutlery twice a heavy academic timetables, factoring tions about whether the rib-eye steak and intrigue circulating amongst one week, but for most of my work shifts into the already loaded comes with chips or what the soup of group of people. The manager and his colleagues it’s a full time equation of lectures, assessed work and the day is, is strangely refreshing after a deputy have an amusingly tempestuous career. It may sound cheesy revision can be tricky. I would argue day cooped up in the library struggling relationship and I can’t wait for the fire- but having a job has really that Arts students such as myself, who through two hundred pages on some works that will erupt when the owner made me appreciate what I’ve got. That it’s only have around six hours of teaching a obscure Icelandic war poet. Also, as a finds out that three of his chefs are really important to pursue a career that is week, can’t really say they don’t have student it’s sometimes easy to forget planning to defect to the restaurant stimulating and challenging is something time for a job. But as long as you cast off what it’s like to function in a group of next door. that doing a bog-standard job brings home the lay-in-bed student stereotype by people who are not well-educated 18- to Ultimately, though, there’s no like nothing else. I’m hoping that with a exercising a degree of organisation and 25-year-olds. At my work, communica- denying that being a waitress – or, I bit of luck and a lot of hard work, I’ll be the time management then holding down a tion with surly kitchen boys, tempera- imagine, a shop assistant or barmaid – one sitting at the table being served in a job, a degree and a social life shouldn’t mental French chefs, a slave-driving is for the most part pretty tedious. I couple of years time. Work: a way to make a living?

these great new friends. Making the most of your Students who engage in employ- ment during their degree take precious time at university should time away from study – and this has an adverse effect on their grades. A study , in 2005 found that the chances for stu- not include pulling pints dents working 15 hours a week of achieving a first or upper second class says Henry James Foy degree were only 62% of their non- working peers’ chances. Of those who worked, 80% said they had less time studying and preparing for assign- Students who et’s get one thing straight here. ments. So there you go; get a job, and Jobs are bad things. They get you’re already 38% less likely to get a work part-time you up early, they’re demand- top degree than the chap sat next to you often find they Ling, time-consuming, stressful, in lectures. have less time infuriating. And the worst thing about And what about all your mates? to spend in the jobs? As soon as you graduate, you’re Even more importantly, what about all library going to have one. Forever. those great people you could be meet- Sure, I can hear those aspiring ing? This is especially pertinent for bungee-jumping instructors or com- There’s the infuriating colleague are safe in the knowledge that it only freshers – meeting friends and develop- puter-game testers shouting that jobs who screws up even the most basic needs to be paid back after graduation, ing bonds with people is crucial to can be fun and yes, some jobs are more tasks, or the demanding boss who and only when you are financially enjoying university. If you’re out serving fun than others. But believe me, even shouts for the sake of it. I haven’t even secure. As a student, you’re expected to pints while the rest of your block are out started on dealing with the public. be a ‘burden on the state’. So be it. Milk drinking them, you may well find your- So coming to University is a three- the government for every last penny – self drifting apart from them. Simply year cushion of not-really-work-but- that’s exactly what student loans do. put, if you spend your evenings and ‘Milk the government for every kind-of before taking the big plunge, The exchequer picks up the tab while weekends in employment, you will end and getting a job is simply wasting the you’re playing Ultimate Frisbee or join- up with a less enjoyable university expe- last penny. The exchequer will time you have here. ing LawSoc, and then you pay it back, rience than everyone else. For sure, many students feel the when you can afford to. I wouldn’t Our time at university is precious. pick up the tab while you’re pressure of having to pay for their edu- knock it, that’s the best loan deal you’ll It’s a time to expand horizons, stretch cation. Tuition fees, accommodation ever get. knowledge and get involved with things playing Ultimate Frisbee or charges and living costs all need financ- As far as I see it, two things will that you might never get another ing. But why pay for it now? Put it off, suffer as a direct result of getting a job chance to try. So go play quidditch, run joining LawSoc’ live a little – there are loads of schemes during your degree. The first is your for President, learn how to pole-dance, and fancy finance packages out there to educational experience, and by that I drink your weight in snakebite, or – god Shane, who earns his living taking help. The trusty student loan is natural- really mean the all-important grade. forbid – learn that Poetry Anthology off tourists scuba-diving off the Great ly the best example. That system has The second is your social life, including by heart. You’ve got decades to pull Barrier Reef has mornings when he can been designed to allow us to concen- the number of societies you can join, pints or flip burgers if you really want think of nothing worse than getting in trate on enjoying university, rather than the number of people you can meet and to, but make the most of your time here the water. worrying about how to pay for it. You the amount of time you have to enjoy first. It’s all about priorities. 23/10/07 Music M21 MusicReviews

this band excels is in offering so many ARTIST: THE VINCENT BLACK delightfully interesting talking points. SINGLES SHADOW Visually, they remind me of those bands that used to sing on Buffy – you know the ones REVIEWS ALBUM: FEARS IN THE WATER that did ‘live’ gigs, but then were skilfully REVIEW: SARA SAYEED worked into the episode by actually being ARTIST: ONE NIGHT ONLY vampires? The only place where VBS fail in SINGLE: YOU AND ME DATE: 05/11/07 this comparison is that the Vampires in Buffy ✪✩✩✩✩ were more subtly disguised, whereas these The ever feral and increasingly corpulent guys, with their blood-stained lips, black Zane Lowe has dubbed this track his ‘Hottest Upon listening to the first track, I was fishnets and generally dreary attire, probably Record in the World’. Not a bad start, consid- pleased to find that this band was going to would have been staked the minute they ering most of the band are only just exiting pose me with some cerebral challenges; it stepped on stage. Shame, as then you would puberty. Accordingly, the track retains a sounded so familiar, I really had to wrack my miss their intensely sombre lyrics. Although sense of cheery, youthful buoyancy. I guess brains to come up with a valid reference. some are a tad too subjective for a mass audi- you have to admit, albeit with reluctance, it's There were the commanding female vocals, ence (“new life has found a place, it’s laid refreshing to see a band that isn't afraid to the jaunty but not chirpy rhythms that all eggs in someone’s eye”), there are also those admit that they might be, well, happy. sounded vaguely reminiscent of the Long that many can relate to. For example, Blondes but, you know, worse. After a few ‘Valentine’, which you can sing to your loved ARTIST: THE PROCLAIMERS more tracks my mental anguish eased slight- one: “Promise you’ll stay awake tonight when ly as, thankfully, they were all so derivative I load the barrel. You owe me another night! SINGLE: WHOLE WIDE WORLD that a plethora of comparisons just flooded A pony, a glass of wine.” in – but I’ll be selective. VBS have so much to offer our world, The Proclaimers, of "I would walk 500 First up there’s Evanescence, who until that you can’t help worrying, who is looking miles..." fame are back, it seems - and not now I thought were unparalleled in morose, after these benevolent creatures? Perhaps squandering away their pension fund on artless crooning. But then, they also sound someone should suggest psychiatric care, or some cottage in Scotland (as I’d always like Placebo, if just a shade less self-indul- a brownie? Something to lift the spirits. Bless assumed). Perhaps not the "stirring sing- gent and just tad more, well, awful. Yet, one them, but really, all this darkness can’t be along rock number" claimed by the press must give credit where it’s due and where healthy. release, but this cover of the Wreckless Eric ‘70s track trundles along quite pleasantly and only occasionally falls prey to monotony. The boys aren't quite back in town, but at least Craig and Charlie seem to be 'on their way...' ARTIST: TIMBALAND PRESENTS ONE REPUBLIC SINGLE: APOLOGIZE

Not your conventional Timbaland track - mostly because at first listen you could easily mistake it for the Backstreet Boys' comeback record. Granted, that's slightly harsh, but really, after all the saccharine melodics we've been inundated with this week, I really was hoping for something a bit more gritty - at the very least a bassline that doesn't lull you to sleep. Is that really so much to ask, ARTIST: DREAM THEATER ARTIST: STARS ARTIST: MY AMERICAN HEART Timbaland? Is it? VENUE: MANCHESTER APOLLO VENUE: BRUDENELL SOCIAL CLUB, ALBUM: HIDING INSIDE THE ARTIST: VINCENT VINCENT AND THE REVIEW: PETER CAMBELL LEEDS HORRIBLE WEATHER VILLAINS DATE: 06/10/07 REVIEW: SAM THOMAS REVIEW: STEPHEN MITCHELL SINGLE: ON MY OWN ✪✪✪✪✪ DATE: 02/10/07 DATE: OUT NOW Finally something with bit of zest, something ✪✪✪✪✩ ✪✪✩✩✩ For those of you who have not heard of just about sparky enough to haul me out of Dream Theater, all you need to know is that the general musical apathy that this week’s they are essentially five virtuoso musicians, Stars’ hometown Montreal is a very long way Attitudes to certain types of music are singles have thrust upon me with their all classically trained, who collectively write from Leeds in every conceivable sense, and inevitably shaped by preconceptions that unfailing mediocrity. Kicking off with a syn- some of the most complicated and original the well-worn charm of the Brudenell was a have grown to summarise an entire style. copated bluesy (bordering on reggae) beat music of our time. Although they saw and strange fit for a band who specialise in writ- ‘Emo’ is a case in point - since evolving into a followed by some a cappella style harmoniz- influenced the transition from progressive ing quirky, earnest lovesongs then swathing mainstream category it has been plagued ing and then practically prancing into some rock to progressive metal in music, only this them in a lush sound with big, bold hooks. with accusations of self-pitying lyrical ten- good honest indie-guitar strumming - genre year have Dream Theater headlined a tent at Three of their number moonlight in dencies. It is apparent that My American wise, it keeps you on your toes. Besides, the the Download Festival. On their current Canadian supergroup Broken Social Scene, Heart have nothing further to offer, or so the rhythm's infectious in that shoulder-shrug- world tour they are only playing a handful of but it’s clear from the start they’re a different first track’s opening couplet: “Your name is ging kinda way - and so, it falls upon me to dates on British soil, and have sold out proposition entirely. Opener ‘Take Me To The devastation, you filled us with frustration” admit, it’s quite good, actually. Wembley Arena. Riot’ isn’t the strongest song on their new would suggest. What particulary stands out in a Dream album, but Torquil Campbell delivers the Granted, My American Heart have ARTIST: WILLY MASON Theater show is not only the band's phenom- refrain with manic relish and co-vocalist enthusiasm and there is definitely an occa- SINGLE: GOTTA KEEP WALKIN’ enal precision but the synchronisation of that Amy Millan’s relentless enthusiasm wins sional catchiness to wannabee guitar tightness with the breathtaking lighting and over a reluctant crowd. Often they join forces anthems such as ‘Moving On’ and ‘Fantasy’. I’m not sure why it is, but record companies visual displays that comprise their two-and- Gainsbourg and Bardot-style, creating a little Yet it appears unlikely there will be anything never tire of sending me Willy Mason a-half-hour set. Despite having over 20 years sexual tension to keep things from getting genuinely attractive to a listener hoping for records. Unfortunately, since Willy basically of music to choose from, the band predomi- too mawkish. Take the whimsical ‘The First more than a few self-absorbed sentiments has one sound, they all tend to meld seam- nately stuck to a selection from their new Five Times’, where a giggling couple recollect presented in a slick but essentially empty lessly into one another. Yet, whereas with album, Systematic Chaos. Every one was their courtship – or rather, places they left fashion. Perhaps it is telling that the few most bands, monotony usually spells disas- played absolutely perfectly, and highlights embarrassing upholstery stains. impressive moments are when the band stray ter, Willy-wise it’s quite a different story. included ‘Take the Time’ (closing with a solo Big singles ‘Ageless Beauty’ and ‘Set from the formalism of overly robust numbers Mason may stick to a formula but it’s one duel between keyboardist Jordan Rudess and Yourself on Fire’ go down best with the devo- such as ‘Boys! Grab Your Guns’. ‘Dangerous’ that he executes perfectly and this latest guitarist John Petrucci) and ‘In the Presence tees down front. Ultimately, it’s ‘Elevator just about deviates from the emotionally offering showcases his unique ability to fuse of Enemies’ (a 25 minute beast of a song). Love Letter’ that seals the deal. Millan and unconvincing furrow of the rest of the album, the soothing with the haunting - like the The blistering virtuosity and the per- Campbell wring every last ounce of emotion with its slower pace and an organ-enhanced, perfect cup of coffee, it doesn’t taste much fectly executed lighting display put the show from it, belting out the chorus with wide eyes multi-textured guitar piece. different with every sip, but it still goes at the top of any live music event I have ever pleading: “Elevator, elevator, take me home.” Unfortunately, despite the (very) brief down good. been to, including last year’s Reading Stars aren’t trying to be sea-deep or glimpses of complexity shown at (rare) Festival, which is not something I would say razor-sharp: they just want you to come points, the inclusion of a track named ‘Tired Singles this week were reviewed by along for the ride. and Uninspired’ appears apt. Sara Sayeed lightly. M12 Interview Interview M13 Going undercover with a cover girl

The glamorous, jet-set world of international modelling is one far removed from the tribulations of student life. Or is it? Nicky Woolf talks to someone who has found a way to balance both and stay sane

k. So the agencies that I have are in... Barcelona, Madrid, “OMilan, New York, uh, Tokyo, Cape Town, Athens, Lisbon, I think... and London, obviously. That’s it, I think; I can’t really remember. Oh, and Amsterdam. I get booked by people directly at the moment, so I don’t need to go to any castings, thank God.” Amy Browne doodles nervously on the table with an elegant finger. Her tone is apologetic, embarrassed almost. “This is awful. I can’t think of anything to say.” She takes a deep breath and a sip from her black coffee as I ask exactly what a casting entails. “Ok. Ok. So when I’m in London, my agent will send me nine or 10 addresses to go to each day, which will be for magazines, advertising companies, casting pro- duction agencies, and I will go along, take my book...” she pushes her hands outwards and upwards in the motion of an opening book, a gesture of hum- “I just did a photo TOMHOLE ble supplication, “and then if they like TOMHOLE me they’ll book me through my agent, shoot in Ibiza. or... you just never hear from them again.” She shrugs. “So that’s how a Everyone said ‘did casting works.” Fusion President and internation- you go to some cool al fashion model, Amy Browne has of the modelling profession. It would Amy Browne is just gets completely months before he was supposed to thing. to work with you that if you’re not a every right to be the most arrogant, parties?’ Nope” seem that far from being a life of first- both a wiped away.” leave. I ask her what she thinks needs to nice person then people just aren’t commanding figure I can imagine. But class tickets and champagne recep- successful Upon further dis- “You quite often meet people like be said about modelling, and her going to book you anymore.” when I meet her for the first time, in a night and got a plane back at ten. I did tions, it is actually more like an indus- cussion of the health that. He started modelling really answer is instantaneous. “You can be I ask if Amy thinks this has any- crowded pub, she is endearingly down- a job in Antigua once, and I was there trial production-line: flight, through model and the problems in the model- young, like 12 or 13, and this brought too thin to be a model. And I want peo- thing to do with the new Dove adverts, to-earth; with an unassuming, pleas- for less than two days. A nine-hour make-up to photography, then another chair of one of ling business, I notice her him a lot of money at a very young age ple to know - I don’t look now like I do the ‘real beauty’ campaign. She laughs ant air that is stopped short of shyness flight from London to Antigua for a day flight home, all in swift succession. It York’s largest wince slightly. “When when he had nothing to spend it on. So in the pictures that come out in these musically. “I was on an airplane com- by her quiet self-confidence. She dress- and a half. It’s ridiculous. Such a huge seems midly depressing, and this is all societies, I went to Cape Town he would just go out. He was with an things, it’s just, so much goes on ing back from a job the other day, and es stylishly, but not extravagantly, carbon footprint. So that’s literally how before we have even started to talk Fusion, for a month to work agency that is notoriously bad for male between the moment the photo is the guy sitting next to me was the head today in whites and greys. Her figure is fast it works. And you never, well, about issues such as anorexia and with an agency there models and drugs. There’s a crew of taken and when it finally comes out to of the advertising campaign for that implied rather than expressed, and her rarely, hear about a job more than a day drug-use. co-ordinating during my gap year, them who all get wasted all of the time. print. Make-up, hair, five hours, you whole Dove Campaign for Real Beauty very long blonde hair is worn loose, in advance.” Is it really all that bad, I ask? Is the dance and I was meant to be Once you get into that set you’re a bit know, or whatever it takes and then thing. It was quite amazing actually, he voluminous and messy. I ask what the people she meets there not a sense of glamour to it, a fashion staying in a flat messed up really, especially if you’ve another ten hours in production with seemed to be really guarded with me, The world she’s describing is one are like. “Some are very nice,” she says, sense of self-satisfaction at least? extravaganza full of girls. But ended up leaving school early.” people photoshopping it and retouch- because he thought I was going to be of tightly controlled rigour, though. then grins, “some are really not very “You meet people who you’ve seen when I turned Browne herself seems to be ing it. really angry with him for having done “Last term, I got called and they said, nice at all. I haven’t met any models in magazines millions of times, all the up to the remarkably free from this influence. In “Everything in a magazine is pho- that. I was like ‘It’s ok!’ In any case, the ‘Ok, you’ve got a flight booked to who I’ve really kept in contact with, models from all the big campaigns. agency they fact, she professes almost allergic dis- toshopped, absolutely everything. I models in those Dove adverts are just Valencia’ or, ‘You’ve got to be at Leeds apart from my best friend, but I met You meet them in a casting room and were like: like to alcohol. I ask her whether it’s went into a shop once, and I couldn’t as airbrushed as in any other advert.” airport by seven in the morning and him through school rather than they look just like everyone else, chat- ‘Nice to see her double life, student and jet-setter, work out if that was me on a poster or I had not realised quite how much you’ll get back the day after and you’re through modelling. The thing is, you ting away and being completely nor- you. We’ve that has kept her sense of reality. “It’s not. It looked like me, but I couldn’t of a dangerous world modelling is. going to be working for this company.’ meet people – like in Athens, the first mal. You see these girls, some of the decided to put alright as long as you surround yourself remember wearing that hat, or some- When the media splash vivid pictures So I just had to be like,” she swivels at time I went abroad to stay with an girls who’ve been in the most glam- you in a two- with family and friends, and keep your “I don’t look like I do in the thing, and I stood in front of this poster of Kate Moss’s latest drugs scandal on the table and addresses the air to her agency, I was with a girl from Slovakia orous campaigns, they look completely b e d r o o m feet on the ground.” she says, nodding. for ages. I was like ‘Hmmm - yeah, I the front pages and her marketability right, “Ok guys, I’m going to Madrid non-stop for three weeks. We were ordinary. They don’t look particularly a p a r t m e n t “That’s why I don’t really like hanging pictures. So much goes on: think it is actually.’ I had to call up my suddenly increases, it is those at the tomorrow, or wherever, see you in a sharing a room, we were going to the happy, they’ve always got problems with a male out with other models that much, apart mum and take a picture of it on my bottom, the youngest and most vulner- couple of days...” same castings, and we got on well – but with money – I mean, you do get the model from from a few.” Her tone turns serious. make-up, hair for five hours, phone. Without make-up and without able, that get the message. Publicity is She pauses. “Um. In fact the last then after that three weeks, she goes few who don’t have problems with London.’ So I “It’s not good for your self-esteem and photoshop, I don’t think I’d have a publicity; this is how you make it in the one I did was in Ibiza. I went, and away to New York, or Milan, I come money at all, but that’s a very select turn up at this flat it’s not good for your general view of and another ten hours with career.” fashion industry. The sheer artificiality everyone was so jealous – but then I back to London. I go to university, she handful – but the rest... it’s not a good and this guy opens life, because if everything rests on your Was it always this way? What hap- of it all is incredible. didn’t get to see any of it at all. goes to Tokyo, and then we never really lifestyle, it’s not healthy at all. the door, really mus- looks then you’ve got nothing left for people photoshopping” pened to the diva-tastic supermodels of But it also seems to be fulfilling. Everyone said, ‘Did you go to some cool cross paths again, and even if we do it’s “Also, some of these girls, especial- cular, gorgeous boy, when you get older, have you? the ‘80s and ‘90s? The Twiggys and the Browne, certainly, seems to find it parties?’ Nope. I got there – the plane just for, like, a day. It’s really difficult to ly the ones from Eastern Europe, they but half an hour into the “It’s taken up to five hours to do “they took them round, fed them Naomi Campbells? “I don’t think rewarding in a very real way, and I gen- was delayed so I got to bed at three in make good friends in the business. It’s get pushed into it when they’re like 14 conversation it turned some hair once. Once I had to have rib- through and...” I must have looked lost, there’s space in the market any more uinely believe that, for her at least, it the morning – woke up at five to get a really lonely business, actually.” or 15, and they have to be professional out that he’d run away bons stuck to my eyelids and then,” she “Do you understand?” I thought I did, for the egos that those supermodels goes beyond the simple ego trip of see- hair and makeup done in time for the I am finding it very difficult to from the day they start, which means from rehab a week ago for crack puffs her hair up and threads her and it looked, I have to say, extremely brought with them. Now there’s so ing yourself reworked and airbrushed sunrise, then worked until seven at imagine this distinctly illuxurious view that they don’t have any childhood. It and heroin addiction, two hands through to illustrate ribbons, painful, or time-consuming, or some- many people in the market who want to the pinnacle of beauty. M14 Travel 23/10/07 Iran: a land of contradictions

The Middle East is often presented in the western media as a frightening dystopia. Alex Forsyth travels around the region and discovers a surprisingly different reality

ropaganda is a wonderful and bright headscarves. That night, I bly warm. The word ‘hospitality’ does until sunset. Of course, one should not thing. It involves striking head- met with Behruouz, a wealthy, not even begin to describe the friendli- become carried away with idyllic lines, bright colours and mem- Canadian-born Iranian who was repa- ness that Iranians will bestow upon notions of Iranian life and forget the Porable slogans. What’s more, it triated when he was 15. When I you. Not an hour would pass without country’s problems. Something is defi- can be funny. Of course, today, propa- inquired about the Moral Police and someone, somewhere, offering some- nitely rotten in the state of Iran. Singing ganda seems a distant concept for their impact on Iranian civilians, he thing for free. Smiling old men prof- and dancing are illegal, the right to free those living in the west, and it’s certain- replied, “Oh them? Dude, they come speech is essentially void and women ly not what we expect from our ‘liberal’ out for a few weeks in the summer just are subjected to what I would consider media and democratic governments. to remind people they exist. Yeah they “The Moral Police? They come inhumane treatment (although that is Unfortunately, however, western politi- piss us off and sometimes some really another discussion). What is crucial to cal and media culture is riddled with bad shit can happen but usually you out in the summer to piss you understand, however, is that the danger inherent prejudices, which contribute just give them ten bucks and they leave is not from the Iranian people to us, but to a gulf of ignorance in the public con- you alone.” He went on to explain how off, but they’ll leave you alone from the government to its own people. sciousness. On a three month trip mostly, for young, affluent, liberal Countless Iranians I spoke to expressed around the Middle East this summer, I Iranians like himself, life is a cycle of if you give them ten bucks” disgust at President Mahmoud stopped off in countries that are black- “going to house parties, smoking up, Ahmadinejad and his band of Imams, listed by tourism boards, branded as getting wasted and choppin’ girls” rather than at the British people. More rogue states by western governments, (which to my relief was slang for pick- fered cigarettes stuffed with ‘herbs’; importantly they also distinguished us and written into the proverbial ‘axis of ing them up, not hacking them to laughing vendors offered ice creams, from our government. Over a Nargile in evil’ by the western media. Iran, which pieces). But how, I wondered, did that and people I’d only just met welcomed Esfahan, I spoke to Khalid Houssein, was my main port of call, dominated work under such a stringent Sharia me into their homes. While it is true who commented: “I love the English, the international headlines for the law? Perceptions of that a system of T’arof (a code of hos- but your government will rule the world weeks leading up to my departure. In The only way to find out was to try Iranian culture pitality) applies in Iran, the people, in the end and you won’t have to fire a going, I wanted to find out whether it myself. As it turned out, to my sur- along with practically all those I came bullet.” This chimed with an earlier these places really are as hostile as is prise, it is still possible to break the are often across in the Middle East, were report I had heard about a media fos- commonly made out, or just misunder- rules in a country that is ruled by an distorted by unquestioningly generous and gra- tered conspiracy theory that the British, stood. extreme Islamic theocracy. At night, media bias cious. ‘the little Satan’, were behind everything Before I left, I glanced over vari- Behruouz and his friends drive shiny So, why should this have sur- in Iran (even the attacks on the ous media sources, and found that the vehicles to meet a dealer, who sells both prised me? The answer, of course, is embassy.) BBC website and various newspapers drugs and drink in whatever quantities the portrayal of the Middle East in the Media propaganda works both presented the Middle East as a danger- are required, and then, after ‘choppin’’ media. Iran is presented as a dystopia ways. The US branded Iran’s revolu- ously hot climate to be stepping into. In a sufficient number of women, head where crazed police roam the streets, tionary guards as terrorists so Iran the previous months, the Iranian mili- back to a large house for all-night par- machete in hand, itching to deal out branded the CIA as terrorists. Amnon tary had taken 15 British marines ties, Iranian style. Moral Thought Justice, while Levy, an Israeli, told me how “the Israeli hostage. Riots had broken out over After this turning point in my rioters explode anything they news tells us how groups from Gaza Salman Rushdie’s OBE award, and the perception of the country, the can get their dissenting want to kill us on holiday.” The British embassy had been surrounded more time I spent in Iran, the hands on. And yet here Palestinians have created a Micky by angry mobs who shouted “Death to more it became apparent that were children chasing Mouse lookalike, ‘Farfur’, who gets the British” and threw stones with such the frightening situation each other round on beaten to death by Israeli settlers on frequency that jokes were made about presented in the media back roller-skates and live television. Then there is the Turkish the embassy starting a rock garden. home was a fabrication. BMXs, whilst plump pro-US television news which flashes Furthermore, there were reports The people, for one, are mothers invited me up numbers of killed terrorists to a of the vehemently righteous Moral incredi- to join enormous soundtrack of gaudy, Wagnerian synth. Police cutting men’s hair in the streets family picnics that There is a somewhat questionable and arresting women for bad hijab. The continued saying that every country gets the gov- most frightening article was headlined ernment it deserves. Perhaps it gets the ‘Behead those with long hair’, and- media it deserves, too. We may ask our- chillingly spoke of execution threats for selves why we are being told that the those whose hairstyles are deemed Middle East is full of people who homosexual (essentially anything threaten our freedom and jeopardise longer than a few inches). I got my hair democracy. Or why there is more nega- cut first thing the next day. tive media about Iran than China, No matter how seriously you take whose government executes far more of the media, no matter how finely tuned its own people and has Tibet to answer your propaganda antennae, incessant for. What is clear to me is that the pub- bombardment with fear-mongering lic perception of Iran panders to lead- tales has probably left you at least a lit- ers’ political agendas, and that the tle reluctant to pack your bags and go media greases the wheels of govern- a-holidaying in the Middle East. ment propaganda. What better way to Though I felt just about prepared with break down communication between my short hair and bag full of plain t- countries and cultures than to present shirts, my first steps on Iranian soil them as hostile, radical and unap- were nonetheless taken with trepida- proachable? tion. If the time finally rolls around for This mentality lasted approxi- the west to invade Iran, the public will mately seven seconds. The moment I probably perceive the country as an stepped out onto the streets of uptown abstract land of Islamic violence, stub- Tehran at night, I knew that the truth born dictators and intolerant people. about Iran had been distorted. Older Even if you believe that you are worldly citizens in traditional dress mixed enough to spot a lie when you see one, freely with young men sporting coif- the fact remains that all the while your fures to rival Noel Fielding’s, teenagers perceptions are vicarious: you are garbed in glittering Franz Ferdinand t- already submitting yourself to some- shirts and skinny jeans, and glamorous body else’s version of the truth. So do it. women wearing oversized sunglasses Go travelling. Find out for yourself. 23/10/07 In-depth M15 Not such a man’s world From the Iron Lady to Blair’s Babes, women in politics have struggled to be taken seriously. Jennifer O’Mahony looks at the implications for 21st century politics

he pictures emerging from the by her people but unable to serve them, Conservative Party conference unable to see her family, but always this month were all very simi- smiling in photos, as though the knowl- Tlar. David Cameron and George edge that she is in the right is enough. Osborne with their glued on grins, and Another example is Benazir Bhutto in a couple of Samantha Cameron looking Pakistan. Deposed by a military coup bashful. The photo of William Hague, and living in exile in Dubai for the last aged 16, speaking at his first conference eight years, Bhutto finally returned to was once again dug up and ridiculed. Pakistan last week despite the Taliban’s And then there was Theresa May. Who death threat. She escaped unscathed would have thought a pair of leopard- from the promised attack, and in the skin patterned wellies could cause such press conference which preceded it, her a fuss? ‘Tragic’ was the word bandied daughter Bakhtwah simply said: “I am around the most, but why was there no so proud of my mother”. These two mention of what May had said during women have a selfless dedication to the conference that day? Or, in fact, the their country which surely allows them speeches of any other female? to transcend their perceived traditional There is now a fairly vocal minori- roles, and puts them above any criti- ty of female politicians in Britain, but cism of being “too girly” for the job. they are routinely ignored - or worse, One woman who was never subjected to derisive comments by accused of being too girly, and who balding, middle-aged male journalists, looms large in this debate, is Margaret generally on their outfits, or in Jacqui Thatcher. Thatcher had to make herself Smith’s case, their cleavage. Theresa almost sexless to counter any gender- May’s shoes have had far more coverage based criticism, avoiding taking a stand than her views or responsibilities as an on women’s issues and surrounding MP ever have. What about Ken Clarke’s herself with men. She was the original belly? David Miliband’s haircut? alpha female, and TV show Spitting Nicholas Soames in general? The truth Image wasted no time in mocking her is that the media finds it difficult simply for this. However, the implication to accept female politicians as repre- Above: Hillary seemed to be that she was less of a sentatives of the electorate and of the Clinton and woman because of it. For Heaton, country. Thatcher’s influence is undoubtedly a There are, generally speaking, two Margaret factor in her own politics. “Thatcher cliches of female politicians: ruthless Thatcher took was about not being afraid as a woman bitch or weak woman. Hillary Clinton different to say exactly what you think, and apparently falls under the first category. approaches to exactly what you feel. She was never These women are unafraid of power, their positions under pressure from anyone else to say and that scares a lot of men. Articles as women in what they wanted her to say.” This is describe Clinton as “ambitious” in an politics. Below: undoubtedly true, but not necessarily entirely negative way, and words such Chair of York considered positive by many women, as ‘calculating’ crop up all too often. It is Tories Julia who feel that femininity is a part of who surely naive to assume that any person Heaton with they are. Today, politicians are using running for the Presidency of the their womanliness as an election United States isn’t calculating. That is Shadow weapon. Clinton has been especially how elections are won. Clinton is well Chancellor good at this. She commented, “The fact on her way to achieving the Democratic George that I'm a woman and a mom is part of nomination; a far cry from reading out Osborne what I am.” Since then she has jumped cookie recipes for the ‘Soccer Mom’ 33% ahead of her closest rival, Barack demographic her husband courted dur- Obama, in the polls. ing his second campaign. The cliche of the weak woman takes human form in department, just because they were the making it easier to digest. The ‘90s are Ruth Kelly. She was always accused of appropriate gender. Women are expect- well and truly dead, and the work-life ‘It is simply amazing that it has being a Blair loyalist to the point of hav- ed to adhere to certain roles, even when balance and paternity leave are hot top- ing no opinion of her own, or criticised they do make it to the upper echelons of ics. Is it any wonder that so many felt taken until 2007 to criminalise for being strongly Catholic (despite government. Julia Heaton, Chairman alienated by a political system consist- there being no material evidence that (she doesn’t mind the ‘man’ as she finds ing of a bear pit of antagonistic ex-pub- the men who buy sex, rather her religion impinged on her job in any any variation patronising) of the York lic schoolboys? A softer politics could way) and was generally felt to be an Tories describes the way women are lead to a softer world, where logic and than the women who sell it’ annoyance who didn’t deserve to be in perceived when at conference and in reason dominate. Harriet Harman and power. These stereotypes allow the pub- Westminster: “People assume that any Jacqui Smith were said to support legis- The new generation of female lic safely to categorise these women in women around are assistants to MPs, lation to criminalise men who buy sex politicians have overseen the revival of their minds, reducing their achieve- wives and families of MPs, not there as rather than the women who sell it. This the NHS, the introduction of civil part- ments to: “She’s the one whose husband politicians. When I did work experience is entirely logical; obviously the prosti- nerships and massive improvements to cheated on her, right?” in Parliament there were two women tute is not the only guilty party in the schools. They have created greater Another assumption women face and one man. The women always exchange. It is amazing that it has taken equality, not just of gender, but also of is that they are only there to represent showed guests around, and the man until 2007 for someone to think about race and sexual orientation. Long term other women. Whilst women’s issues talked about the hardcore politics.” enshrining this in law. change will be gradual, but groups such are obviously important, it seems What do women really bring to There is a sense of immense brav- as Women to Win and energetic stu- strange when Patricia Hewitt, the for- politics, and what are they changing? ery surrounding many female politi- dent political debate should ensure that mer health secretary, or Jacqui Smith, Heaton thinks that women are making cians. Think of Aung San Suu Kyi, who the future for these women does not the Home Secretary, were asked about politics “softer”. Not in the sense of was held under house arrest for 10 centre around leopard skin print issues that had nothing to do with their making it less substantial, but rather years in Burma; democratically elected footwear. M16 Agony Uncle 23/10/07 UncleMatthew He would care, but he just doesn’t want to...

Dear Uncle Matthew, Dear Uncle Matthew, Dear Uncle Matthew,

Before I arrived at York I dumped my girlfriend Hearing second and third years reminiscing Over the past fortnight, I have cultivated a repu- from home, in the expectation that everyone else about Trevor (or ‘fit duck’), my block mates and I tation for being ‘kerray-zee’ and an all-round fun would have done likewise, thus leaving me free to have been left not only inconsolable, but also guy, but ever since the end of Week 2, my house- enjoy a university career of unattached dalliance. tragically cheated of any prominent wildlife to mates seem to have been less than keen on ‘hilariously’ anthropomorphise. If you could spending time with me. In an effort to overcome However, it has since transpired that most other advise us as to any animals or other members of people have taken a rather different approach, their despondency, I have upped the practical the campus community we could adopt, or alter- joke count, and they can now count on being and my efforts at playing campus Casanova have native sources of entertainment to fill our days, soaked at least twice a day. However, they now so far fallen dispiritingly flat. How can I per- we would forever be your humble servants. seem intent on blanking me entirely. How can I suade my old girlfriend to take me back under rectify this situation, and does it involve using such circumstances, and recommence her duties Bereft, weed killer to write ‘Dave is a nobber’ (sic) into as cook, cleaner and bed-fellow, without the Derwent the verge of University Road? shame of admitting that I may have made an ...... error? Dazed and confused, Dear Bereft, Alcuin Misogynistic, The great cycle of life and death can seem unfair, but some- ...... Langwith times we just have to sit back and accept that it is nature's way. It is also nature's way ...... that some individuals should be afflicted Dear Dazed and confused, by premature hair loss. Try and Dear Misogynistic, become one with nature's vagaries: It may be that your housemates feel intimidated should you find one of these poor by your comic genius. Perhaps it would be best if “All too often we only truly appreciate what we have once it invalids on campus, rather than you showed them that not all your humour is gone, so any opportunity to retrieve what was lost are few merely point and laugh, take them depends on them being the victims. What if next and far between”. I propose you use this very phrase to under your wing and lavish on them time you soaked yourself instead? Better yet, why explain to your girlfriend the lesson you were trying to teach the care and attention always shown not combine this with the weed killer and add a her by your seeming rejection: that she needs you in her life to the late Trevor. Such philanthro- generous helping of that to the water before and that if she wants to keep you she had better buck up her py can prove entertainment enough, immersing yourself in the contents? Don't forget ideas. She will almost certainly prove hopelessly grateful for and there is no shortage of others in to add plenty of bleach, to help clean up any mess your generosity of spirit (and puritanical chastity during the need of such TLC – witness YUSU’s heroic – you want to show you aren't any hassle, remem- interim) and will, should you add that such bounty must be campaign to raise awareness of the univer- ber. In fact, for something really 'zany', why not “seized with both hands”, resume all her womanly duties sal affliction of cellulite amongst female drink the contents at the same time? I guarantee without demur. students. your housemates will enjoy the results.

Yours patriarchally, Yours anthropologically, Yours corrosively,

Uncle Matthew Uncle Matthew Uncle Matthew NOUSE elections Photography competition If you want to get involved in York’s Nouse and Photosoc are searching for talented photographers from across campus. If you think you’ve got something to show us, send quality student newspaper, all positions it in to [email protected]. The best entries, will be up for election today, 7.00 in as judged by Photosoc, will be printed in Nouse P/L001 (unless you hear otherwise). and exhibited by Photosoc in Goodricke Dining Positions to be had include: Hall on December 7. writers editors for all sections deputy editors for all sections advertising 1. The competition is open to all University Students 2. Pictures must be taken within the last year photography 3. The closing date is November 12 (Monday Week 6). Submission after this point will not be regarded 4. Your submission must be your own finance 5. You may enter a maximum of two photographs (Black & White or Colour) 6. Digital jpeg must be submited high resolution to [email protected] administration 7. You must include in your submission your Name and College, and any information or blurb relevant to the title 8. No photoshop restriction are in place for this competition 9. A panel of indepdent judges will choose the winning entries. The decision is final and no correspondence will be Only the most senior positions require entered into 10. Any winner in breach of the rules will have their prize withdrawn experience, so come along and stand 11. By submitting images you grant photoSoc/Nouse the limited licence to use/edit/publish the photograph in refer- ence to the competition. In Print, and in exhibition format 23/10/07 Satire M17 NickyWoolf Baked beans are for girls FILLING IN THE GAPS Sam Starsky and Matt wildly, the pair almost fell Hutch were off-duty in the down the front stairs of the hot police station when a SUPD building into the Another murky tale really care if they gave girls half the violently sociopathic, until it is all you strident shout interrupted waiting lowrider of Grace beans they gave boys. I mean, come on. can do to lie, quivering with fear and their sedentary torpor. Huggy-Bear, who was What a surreal time of year this is. The Anyone who has ever talked in depth to curled up in the foetal position, in your Spilling his coffee across wearing a fair-trade pimp- drunken freshers have, to a certain a girl would know that this was going to freezing cold campus bedroom listen- his slightly foxed copy of outfit including fair-trade extent, tuned down their drunken go down very badly indeed. ing to the fearful tap-tap-tap of beak on FHM, Starsky was the first pimp shoes with goldfish shenanigans at least to the point where Oh. glass. up, nervously straightening in them made of actual it is possible to cross a bridge without Actually, now that I put it that way, his pink tie and name- gold. She drove them in one of them threatening either to throw it makes perfect sense. Free drinks on me... badge. He was quickly fol- her fair-trade pimp-mobile themselves off it (a less than fatal action Unfortunately, my exasperation lowed by Hutch, whose to the local club where the in a two-foot deep lake, unless you are gland is on the fritz after an allergic YUSU should have a sign up on it that more stylish leather jacket mob boss hung out. As unlucky enough to land on a broken reaction to a dose of ridiculous gigantic says, “Please wander in at your leisure crackled in the Californian they sit in the car waiting bicycle), or perhaps actually throw up overpriced purple phallic bendy-bus and take whatever you want, the key is heat. The twosome were for something to happen off it. Or stagger drunkenly into you turd. Therefore, it will have to suffice to hidden beneath Matt Burton’s pubic quickly developing a repu- with the crime scene (or wearing (be it man or woman) a pink say that I, personally, don’t really like wig box.” I say it should have a sign up tation as mavericks within between the two of them), fluffy thong and a pair of tattered baked beans anyway, and am frustrated on it because a sign put up on the the SUPD. Matt Hutch, munching their smash, bunny-ears glued comically onto the that there was no caviar alternative. YUSU building is, and I can’t get over the curly-haired ambitious disaster strikes. The thugs outside of a blue NYC baseball cap. Additionally, I was grossly vexed that how funny this is, instantaneously young cop who got results of mob boss Kin “the mili- Special congratulations go to Ken the free cream in the pretty pink bags stolen. I would like to take this oppor- the unorthodox way, had tary policeman” Bitten Batten’s security operation, which took tasted like Roger Kirk Centre mayon- tunity to say in complete honesty that if been reluctant to be paired creep up behind our two longer than an hour and a half to naise and did absolutely nothing for my the ingenious thief makes himself with the by-the-book heroes and try to kill them retrieve a single drunken student from toothache. Still, it was much tastier known to me in a drinking establish- square Sam Starsky, but with guns and things. But the roof of a bridge. than the Smas ment, and brings a photograph of the they had quickly developed they get the car into gear sign next to, perhaps, a copy of today’s an almost inappropriate just in time, miraculously It’s a girl-boy thing Return of the bird newspaper (Guardian preferred, Vision friendship. Trying not to missing some crates in an not accepted) as proof of possession, I look rushed, they sidled alley, which is unusual. As Every so often, for any administration, So now it is more possible to see the shall buy their drinks for them for the into Chief Inspector they drive they continue to there comes a moment of truth. For more pressing problems of the whole night. Canning’s office. “What bicker, but in a mildly flir- Blair, it was Princess Diana’s tragic University. Real problems that should As if Chlamydia was a useful indi- have you idiots been up to tatious way. Then Grace death. For Lynden Johnson, it was the by no means just be brushed off with a cator of suitability for responsibility, now?” growled the Chief Huggy-Bear turns up with decision to put more troops in rather laugh and a covert, orange-peel banish- the YUSU Women’s officers are insist- Inspector through her a cake sale gun and drives than take them out of Vietnam. For ing rub. The geese, which you freshers ing that the whole YUSU team get test- cigar. “The Chronicle’s on the baddies away in a hail Sam Bayley and Matt Burton, it all have probably gotten on quite well with ed, though this does not render them my ass about these bags, of muffins and cupcakes. came down to a desire to read FHM, in the last few weeks, will slowly get less safe. Chlamydia-free or not, for God’s boys. You better go clean There is icing everywhere. and the assumption that nobody would and less tolerant and more and more sake don’t sleep with them anyway. up your mess.” Bickering It’s a massacre. Moment of Zen Gingerly pushing a hand into the mysterious, jewel-encrusted box of current affairs

“I hate James Blunt more than I hate racism,” Grace Fletcher- Hall, Academic and Welfare Officer, told YUSU senate last week. “Wait,” she added, after some thought, “don’t print that in Nouse.”

Well done to Holiday Inn, who The ‘CU Hotties’ bar crawl (“It's MoZ was recently informed of sensibly removed the minibars called CU hotties coz we're pret- York Vision’s secret to success. from rooms before their dis- ty hot!”) took place on Friday. A “We don’t need spellcheckers,” placed Langwith occupants subtitle of the evening on the said disgraced ex-editor Adam arrived. Disappointed freshers event’s inevitable Facebook page Thorn, excitably bouncing up responded by barricading them- was: “An evening with the spir- and down outside the office selves in the rooms and smear- its: what would Jesus drink?” I window, “we have creativity.” ing the walls with faeces. No, have no idea, but whatever it Alright, alright Adam, keep your not really. turns out to be, I’ll have one too. hair on.

If you have any juicy tidbits or Moment of Zen spotted Anne- gossip to share, Marie Canning last week trying to enter the male toilets in send them to: Montey’s. As she was far too inebriated to even operate the door, MoZ felt that the occu- pants were in no imminent danger from the President and [email protected] there was no need for backup. M18 Arts 23/10/07 ArtsReviews

BOOK:THE HOUSE AT RIVERTON Helen Citron looks at Frank Skinner’s awaited comeback tour AUTHOR: KATE MORTON Frank Skinner has just hit 50, and hilarity of these lewd sexual con- PUBLISHER: PAN it shows. His one-night-only stop- fessions. However, after at least PRICE: £7.99 off at York’s Grand Opera House half an hour of listening to was a predictable jaunt through Skinner talking about ‘the sex’ and REVIEW: STEVEN WARD the well-worn comedic favourites ‘the orals’, the joke became dis- ✪✪✪✪✪ of one night stands, race, pae- tinctly tired and it started to feel dophilia and middle age. Skinner’s like now that Skinner was ‘over un-PC treatment of these topics the hill’ he felt the need to prove One-time housemaid Grace Bradley, may have shocked 10 years ago, his virility. now 98, is approached by a young when he last performed on the A second half in which the director making a film about the suicide stand-up circuit, but these days it ‘laugh-a-minute’ pace of the show of a poet at the house she once worked can take a lot more to make an seemed to slow a little was consid- in. As the director attempts to exhume audience uncomfortable. His ges- erably more successful. His history, Grace finds herself drawn back ture of appointing a ‘moral refer- impression of his neurotic self in into the past and forced to confront the ee’ from the audience to warn him the early stages of a relationship secrets and ghosts she had buried long in case he ‘goes too far’ seemed manically over-analysing text ago. As Grace recounts life as a servant pretty pointless in the face of a messages ("No fucking kiss at the girl, the mystery behind the young series of paedophile gags which end!") was Skinner at his best. His poet's death becomes increasingly clear fell noticeably flat. "Oh, swings decision to talk about his wealth until she is unable to hide her knowl- and roundabouts" was the was a brave one, considering his edge. As her memories resurface, tales Christmas-cracker-joke reply of status as an icon of working-class, Frank Skinner, who performed at York’s Grand Opera House of tumultuous love affairs, political an experienced paedophile when lad culture and it led on to a sharp intrigues and social upheaval begin to asked by a sex offender new to the and witty dig at Heather Mills. Nevertheless, his engage- cially in a novelty song played on sneak out from the woodwork. area where to find children. However, his discussion about his ment with the audience – his banjo, was remarkable. There’s Set in the immediate prelude and Skinner is well known for his involvement with Comic Relief arguably the most important skill no doubt that the audience thor- aftermath of the First World War, the unashamed, candid discussions of coupled with a gag about a in a stand-up comic - was daz- oughly enjoyed the majority of novel suffuses a sophisticated historical his sexual encounters. There is Ugandan prostitute, delivered zling, even in a fairly big, imper- Skinner’s performance and, whilst milieu with a breathtaking narrative something about his unimposing with particularly vulgar aplomb, sonal venue like the Opera House. the show may not have been inno- brimming with melancholy delicacy. By physical stature and trademark was simply too offensive to be His ability constantly to weave the vative, Skinner does seem to have describing post-war Edwardian society self-deprecation that adds to the funny. crowd into the proceedings, espe- a winning formula. with astonishing brilliance and breadth of insight, Morton succeeds in creating a historical novel with depth and soul. WHAT’S ON It glimmers with the same atmospheric Drama Barn: Theatre Royal: tone as Atonement and The Blind Located at St. Leonard’s Place. Tickets Assassin and is destined to share their Week 3, October 26-18 £5-£18, available from www.yorkthe- literary prestige. Delicate, articulate Love and Understanding atreroyal.co.uk or by calling 01904 and heartbreaking, The House at by Joe Penhall 623568 Riverton is most aptly deserving of the label "modern classic". Pinocchio Week 4, November 3-5 October 19-27 BOOK: REVELATION SPACE Wake Up Call AUTHOR: ALASTAIR REYNOLDS by Rasheeda Nalumoso Enjoy by Alan Bennett November 3-24 PUBLISHER: GOLLANCZ Week 5, November 10-12 PRICE: £7.99 EXHIBITION:TRACEY EMIN The Barnarama Scribbler & Spouse performed by the Yellow Leaf REVIEW: IAN MASKERY VENUE:YORK ART GALLERY Grand Opera House: Theatre ✪✪✪✪✪ DATE: UNTIL 27/01/08, 10AM-5PM Tickets £11-20, available from November 6-7 www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk PREVIEW: KIRRAN SHAH Kevin Tomlinson: On The Edge Around AD 2200, archaeologist Dan ✪✪✪✪✩ “Where You From?” Lenny Henry Improvised comedy Sylveste, scion of the infamous House November 2, 7.30pm November 8-10 Sylveste and one of the most important men in civilization, has made a discov- With an MA in painting from on Frida Kahlo’s Two Fridas. ery. On the planet Resurgam, Dan has the Royal College of Art and Insane Reflection of 2006 rep- Dancing in the Streets York Roman Festival uncovered an ancient alien artefact. solo exhibitions in cities includ- resents her “endless imagining November 3, 7.30pm Various displays, marches and re- Unfortunately, he slowly realises what ing Istanbul, Helsinki, Paris new life, faced with the ques- enactions around York, including a his discovery really mean for Resurgam, and Berlin, Tracey Emin pro- tions of how that might ever Other Side Comedy Club Living History camp. Will be running and his safety, and it isn’t good news. motes her art by participating be,” referring to her abortions. Every Sunday, at the City Screen from October 26-28. For more details, We skip to the tale of Ana Khouri, at the Venice Biennale for the A solitary fabric flower is sewn Basement Bar. Tickets £7/8, book in visit www.yorkro- a young assassin kidnapped and British Pavilion. This coincides into the cotton screen print, advance from 08707 583219 manfestival.com brought aboard the lighthugger (read with York Art Gallery’s current distinguished from the scratchy October 28: Andre Vincent, Martin ‘spaceship’) Nostalgia for Infinity to exhibition; a very intimate and line and blank space surround- Davis & Mat Reed serve a triumvirate of entrepreneurial personal display of her autobio- ing. The display allows you to pirates. It is at this stage that Reynolds’s graphical works. It is a small give Emin more thought, with Lenny Henry November 4: Lucy Porter, John rather unique writing style comes into selection of art, an insight into reference to other artists, and Gordillo & Dan Atkinson will be at the its own. The various strands of the story her confrontational personal to look up close at her dense, Grand are drawn together in ways so beauti- world. While Emin is widely often aggressively drawn lines. fully complex that the general effect is known for her controversial The exhibition also fea- November 11: Mick Ferry, Simon Opera to leave the reader awestruck. Although piece My Bed, York Art tures one of her range of travel Bligh & Dan Willis House on paper the story seems almost impos- Gallery’s exhibition highlights bags for Longchamp, Always sibly complicated, it is deliberately so, her individuality with etchings, Me, illustrating Emin’s focus on PREVIEW: ILLUMINATING YORK in the anticipation that a veil will be lithographic prints and photog- the importance of the self The annual series of exhibitions returns to light up York’s historic lifted and the bigger picture grandly raphy. through design. Throughout monuments. Usman Haque’s ‘Evoke’ will allow members of the public to revealed. In contrast to the compet- the exhibition, I am reminded create light patterns with their own voices, which will be projected onto the Revelation Space is simply one itiveness of the Venice of Kahlo’s statement: “I am the Minster’s western facade. finest examples of that most rare sci-fi Biennale, Emin’s power in this subject I know best.” It is worth The highlight promises to be ‘The Keys to the Kingdom’, an after-dark find; the space opera. Reynolds uses his exhibition is in memories and spending some time to look at play in the Minster Gardens, revealing the secret revelries which ensue scientific knowledge and an array of how objects and images can each piece; the exhibition will once the gates of the Gardens are locked. Performances are at 7pm and techniques to tremendous effect in cre- evoke them. Her self-portraits allow you a fresh view of her 8pm throughout the festival. ating a universe that is as darkly realis- are sketchy, almost crude; they diverse styles, from photogra- tic as it is uniquely breathtaking. are fragile portraits, one based phy to her studio space. 26 Oct - 13 Nov, www.illuminatingyork.org.uk 23/10/07 Arts M19 TheatreReviews

Alberto Furlan talks religion with one of Dramasoc’s up and coming student writers

dentity is what defines someone, protest. Some British Muslims, born like that of individuals, is a fluid tapes- but how does one define identity? and bred in England, took to the streets try of changing ideas and beliefs. Perhaps a while ago we would in peaceful demonstrations, but while a Whether these create contradictions Ihave pointed to the categories of minority resorted to violence, the and fallacies is for the individual to class and geography, but in an increas- majority had to suffer the conse- solve (if a solution is necessary) and it is ingly globalised and media-dominated quences. not for us to erect a fence. society, the categories are more fluid, Wake Up Call lucidly shows how Wake Up Call will be performed in the choice not as strict. Wake Up Call, Rushdie’s book also created a rift within the Drama Barn on November 2, 3 and a new student-written play, deals with the Muslim community itself, strangely 4 (Friday, Saturday and Sunday of Week the situation of being forced into think- polarising the moderate elders against 4). Tickets are available from Vanbrugh ing of yourself as defined by a single the more ardent youths. The protago- stalls from Wednesday until Friday of category, in this particular case that of nists’ identities are torn between ques- Week 4, 12-2pm. Tickets are £3.50 ‘Muslim’. Imagine being defined simply tions of religion, gender and age. from Dramasoc members, £4.50 for as a university student, by the media Although tension had been present pre- non-members. and everyone else around you. You are viously, The Verses was the defining no longer from the north or south or moment, the genesis of that transfor- abroad. No longer a member of a col- mation no individual should go through WHAT’S ON lege. No longer a science or arts stu- – being forced to define oneself in rela- Love and Understanding dent. You are a lazy, promiscuous tion to a single idea, interpreted in a Fri, Sat, Sun, Week 3, 7.30pm. drunk, wasting taxpayers’ money. single way, and the struggles this As Rasheeda Nalumoso, the play’s brings. “One night with your lovely girl- writer and producer, puts it: “The pub- The play also shines the spotlight negative image, or forsake what used to Student-written friend and your old pal. lication of the Satanic Verses was the on the role of the scoop-driven media, a be an integral part of your identity. drama Wake Up Marvellous.” moment people were forced into think- huge polarising agent in such situa- 20 years on, has the situation Call premieres ing of themselves as only ‘Muslim’”. For tions. Through the newspaper’s cover- changed? The play gives its own in the Drama Is one friendship capable of many British Muslims, it was not a case age, one violent person can become answer; gloriously open to being con- Barn next week breaking the bonds between of getting off the fence into one of the symbolic of an entire religion or ethnic- tested as anyone may wish, surely the those you love the most? two categories: it was the moment the ity in the eyes of society, and the nega- right of all individuals. But do not fence was erected, and lined with tive image reflects back upon those who think of it as a play only about barbed wire. The right to free speech is share that person’s belief. Often, the Muslims, or only about women, or only Tickets: Vanbrugh stalls, Wed - one we hold dear, as is the right to choices are few: either embrace the about the media. The play’s identity, Fri Week 3, 12-2pm.

PRODUCTION: LIMBO PRODUCTION: DON QUIXOTE PRODUCTION:TONY! THE BLAIR MUSICAL VENUE: YORK THEATRE ROYAL VENUE: WEST YORKSHIRE PLAYHOUSE, LEEDS VENUE: PLEASANCE ISLINGTON REVIEW: GURMEET SINGH REVIEW: AMY MILKA REVIEW: MATTHEW LACEY ✪✪✪✪✩ ✪✪✩✩✩ ✪✪✪✪✪

Declan Feenan’s Limbo has a ful and affectionate portray- Until I saw Joseph Galindo’s a laugh. It would be easy to claim, in Plenty of the credit central motif of water; it al, however, that ensures the version of Don Quixote, I The only saving grace hindsight, that TONY! The must go to Chris Bush and nourishes, cleanses, and script works onstage and not didn’t realise it was possible here was Greg Hicks’s emo- Blair Musical was blessed Ian McCluskey. It is clear gives life, but it also takes life merely as a piece of writing. to produce a play that tionally aware portrayal of with so many publicity that much of the satirical away. On a cold, wet evening Nothing seems to be calcu- focussed more on stage the disillusioned Don, which advantages that it was power of their writing comes on the edge of Camlough lated; no action (though effects than acting. A bemus- was worthy of a much better bound to be a hit, but to from an affection for both Lake Clair, a young Irish girl, these are sparse) seems con- ing array of lighting, projec- production. Tony Bell occa- claim as much would be lazy Blair and musicals, even as tries to absolve herself of the trived. tions and two-way mirrors, sionally shone through as his and would miss the point they hold the excesses of guilt and love of several The narrative is sugges- the production really encap- trusty squire Sancho Panza, utterly. If one could distil the both up to ridicule. Of equal month’s turmoil. tive and haunting and sulated the unpredictability but it was not enough to save secret of their success, it triumph, though, is James The set is decidedly Williamson’s sensitive por- and bizarre nature of the show for me. would surely be that the pro- Duckworth. His perform- minimalist, but every neu- trayal of Clair creates a frag- Cervantes’s classic. At times there was the duction managed to con- ance as Blair was a masterful rotic movement, every surge ile veneer of strength that is Unfortunately the potential for brilliance, such vince us that we were look- combination of acutely and cadence, every crackle in undermined by her own fun- clever staging of certain as the staging of three scenes ing at the world as Blair sees observed mimicry in gesture the accent fills the room and damental insecurity. The scenes was undermined by at once, or retelling the tale it. The script (and quite pos- and speech, and fine vocals. all eyes focus on the solitary closing moments of the play what can only be described from a different perspective, sibly the whole universe) Nothing better cap- space on stage occupied by are its darkest. as ridiculous and grotesque but I got the feeling that revolves around him, and tured the overall cast spirit Claire (Caroline Near the lake, Clair costumes (a St Trinian’s those who were unfamiliar does so with all the wit, than the show-stopping bar- Williamson). The coldness of makes suggestions of the schoolgirl, a nurse in PVC with the novel didn’t have a charm and unshakeable self- bershop quartet of Tory the night is palpable, her most despairing agony. The and a chorus of chavs) and hope of understanding what confidence that seemingly leaders, sung by Michael story is haunting, her anxiety conclusion alters the play so out-of-place props (space was taking place. defines its 'hero'. That this Slater, Ed Duncan Smith, too becomes ours. The dia- that the audience is left crav- hoppers, a Coke machine Incomprehensible for those delusion should take the Jethro Compton and Alex logue is detailed without ing some confirmation of and a giraffe on wheels?) who don’t know the original, form of a pastiche of musical Stevens. They, apparently, being dense and honest peace. They will be left which certainly contributed and pointless for those who theatre is a hilariously logi- “move without originality or without being too simplistic. unsatisfied with their own to the chaotic atmosphere, do. Overall, not worth the cal extension of Blair's own flair”. The same could not be It is Williamson’s youth- reflection. but ultimately failed to raise trip to Leeds. showiness. said for this production. M20 Previews 23/10/07 MusicPreviews

SHOW:THE SUPER FURRY ANIMALS SHOW:THE WAREHOUSE PROJECT SAM VENUE: LEEDS TOWN HALL VENUE: PICADILLY STATION, NOBLE PREVIEW: STEPHEN MITCHELL MANCHESTER DATE: 30/10/07 PREVIEW: ALICE GREGSON Somewhere over ✪✪✪✪✩ DATE: ONGOING UNTIL 01/01/08 the rainbow ✪✪✪✪✪ This October sees the welcome return of cult rockers Super Furry Animals from a two-year For a while, Manchester has been dark and Like most people with any musical inclina- tour hiatus. Clearly, this is pleasing news for silent on Friday and Saturday nights but for a tion, upon hearing Radiohead were releasing all indie-psych-techno enthusiasts, or those hub of hot light and splitting noise sounding their new album on October 10, I rubbed my seeking a fashionably skewed alternative to out from deep beneath Manchester Piccadilly eyes, pinched myself and dribbled an awful Oasis/Blur/Pulp Britpop nostalgia. train station and into the recesses of the city. lot with excitement. Guitarist Jonny Yet, as the Super Furries embark on a fif- Returning from its 2006 triumph, the Greenwood had only announced the release teen-date British trek with current work Hey Warehouse Project is blowing minds once ten days before on their blog, without any Venus! in tow, it appears that the previously again until New Year’s Day with its mesmer- ceremony but with huge lashings of under- unclassifiable Welsh innovators are settling ic concoction of brain-battering beats and statement: “Well, the new album is finished, into territory that is fast becoming familiar. urban surroundings. and it's coming out in 10 days; we've called it Their new album, a semi-abortive concept Housed in a WWII air-raid shelter, the In Rainbows. Love from us all.” Christmas, piece based around the travels of the epony- eclectic mix of DJs are dropping their own Hannukah and Chinese New Year had all mous hero, Hey Venus! appears cosmically The more appealing form of ‘Furry’ shells of rave mayhem. From Aphex Twin to come early. disconnected from former exploits in genre Mark Ronson and Hot Chip there is some- Of the 1.2 million (is that all?!) people evasion; instead, the beguiling choral catchi- invention, freedom and lunacy found in thing for all tastes. On October 27, supported who downloaded it on the first day, all paid ness of more recent releases Rings Around abundance in their early days. The Super by Boyz Noize and Late of the Pier, it’s ‘krack’ an optional price. As Jonny told the world: the World, Phantom Power and 2005’s Love Furries are a band that thrive on the creative for electro-heads as the part-DJ, part-band “It's just interesting to make people pause for Kraft have once more been recycled, swirling possibilities of live performance. Those who outfit Soulwax present their shuddering even a few seconds and think about what keyboard enhancements, cartooned album have attended previous tours have been anthems from 2005’s Nite Versions to a music is worth now. I thought it was an inter- artwork and all. blessed with all manner of visual ostentation, screaming crowd of 3,000. Renowned for esting thing to ask people to do and compare Thankfully, this also means that Gruff from golf cart entrances in day-glo green transforming any arena into a pounding it to whatever else in their lives they value or Rhys’s current compositions carry the same raincoats to song-specific animated epics and dance haven, Soulwax will surely be the jewel don't value.” Judging from my friend’s contri- characteristics that have made the psychedel- a costume wardrobe to rival even the in the Project’s grimy crown. butions, most have paid over £3, and consid- ic tones of the SFA so irresistible; standout Flaming Lips. The mostly sold-out Project aims to beat ering bands on major labels make £1.61 after track ‘Run-Away’, almost as cinematic as a With a new concept to illustrate, one can last year’s 100,000 tally of sweaty party- the label takes the lion’s share, they’re set to faux-tragic love story from the beginnings of only speculate what forms it might take: goers, with 30 live acts spread over a period make an absolute mint. pop, is played out to a fleshed-out guitar and what is certain, however, is if Rhys’s perfect of three months. With promises of better Inevitably, message boards, music sites the lyrics are uttered in the fashion of a man pop creations flow into every corner of the acoustics and a New Year’s Eve line up so and most other facets of the media have in a melancholic haze. room, and the crowd is illuminated by the exclusive the whole music industry is practi- noted their bold move as revolutionary. Side- Nevertheless, it is clear that in their live group’s flower-power projections, somehow cally buzzing, the 2007 Project is the biggest stepping the record industry as Prince and performances the band retain the spirit of it will all make sense. event to hit a British city all year. the Charlatans have, as well as preventing the album from leaking by, well, leaking it them- selves, they've succeeded in bringing back a long-gone feeling of excitement. Putting the ramifications of a download-only release ON THE UP: VAMPIRE WEEKEND Ben Rackstraw aside for a second, is the album actually any With a name that sounds like a United Colours of Bennetton pedantic arts student) and even the quirkiest of indie pop. good? snappy title for a goth mini- and Peter Gabriel. By taking roofing styles (see ‘Mansard Recently signed to XL, the Radiohead are a band who are no break, you could be forgiven for inspiration from world music, Roof’, a handy method of creat- band are currently working on strangers to hyperbole, so it seems pointless thinking that Vampire Vampire Weekend have created ing more attic space) the band their debut album, earmarked to add to it. Instead, what I like about the Weekend would be a minor-key a sound that has far more don’t shy away from their intel- for release in the new year. album is the band’s continuing quality con- led, eyeliner-wearing group of humanity and emotion than lectual foundations, but like all Early indicators suggest that trol (it has been four years since their last misfits. In fact, they are the lat- other recent American indie intelligent indie, from Talking the record will be more compli- release), which puts any Radiohead release est darlings of the New York groups like Clap Your Hands Heads to Tom Vek, they under- cated than the early singles, absolutely miles ahead and vast distances indie scene and the hottest Say Yeah or Tapes n Tapes. stand the need for a great beat with lead singer Ezra Koenig apart from any of their contemporaries or American export since Heroes - With this aspect of their to carry their quirkier aspects. saying that the songs “have aspiring experimentalists. No band can make if Heroes were an ‘80s refer- sound they are also a distinctly ‘Walcott’ revels in a synco- such a more complete picture”. music as interesting, densely layered and sur- encing college-based drama college band, at times bringing pated rhythm that should be Hopefully the new materi- prisingly melodic as Radiohead. shot in the style of an African to mind cool kids organising ruling dancefloors in indie dis- al won’t lack the directness and ‘Bodysnatchers’ begins with a funky, distort- soap. As that pilot episode in indie parties with red cups of cos across the land upon its fun of the songs available on ed bassline which meanders into soaring the making suggests, the main beer then spending the evening release this week, and the Myspace at the moment, some- ethereal guitar lines, while ‘Nude’ sounds the cultural touchstone for the talking about Lou Reed, but aforementioned ‘Mansard thing backed up by reports of nearest to floating you’re ever going to get, as band is Paul Simon’s master- fortunately this comes across in Roof’ drives its way through a the band’s first gig in strings accompany a trip-hop octave bass line piece Graceland, an a very charming way. With wailing guitar riff to emerge as Manchester on Saturday. It and Thom Yorke gives the best vocal per- influence most obvious lyrics about grammar snob- a pulsing organ-enhanced might not be summer any formance of his career. My personal on the track ‘Cape bery (‘Oxford stomp, before a viola break- more, but Vampire Weekend’s favourites are ‘All I Need’, with its antagonis- Cod Kwassa Kwassa,’ Comma’ reads down – a off-beat anthems could be just tic piano chords and 'Jigsaw Falling Into a glorious slice of as a rant rarity the ticket to speed you through Place' whose acoustic arpeggios, mournful summery afro-pop against a in to next August. harmonies and haunting vocals shatter into that manages to twinkling chords and sparkling guitar lines reference in a dramatic ending. both the The secret of Radiohead’s commercial popularity and indie god-like credentials is their ability to straddle a song between an epic anthem and perplexing song structures that can keep even the most introspective of listeners satisfied. As Yorke sings on the beautiful album ender: “No matter what hap- pens now, you shouldn’t be afraid, because I know today has been the most perfect day I have ever seen.” Don’t be afraid, In Rainbows is endlessly engaging and a progression of their unique musical journey. A most perfect day indeed. 23/10/07 Music M21 MusicReviews

this band excels is in offering so many ARTIST: THE VINCENT BLACK delightfully interesting talking points. SINGLES SHADOW Visually, they remind me of those bands that used to sing on Buffy – you know the ones REVIEWS ALBUM: FEARS IN THE WATER that did ‘live’ gigs, but then were skilfully REVIEW: SARA SAYEED worked into the episode by actually being ARTIST: ONE NIGHT ONLY vampires? The only place where VBS fail in SINGLE: YOU AND ME DATE: 05/11/07 this comparison is that the Vampires in Buffy ✪✩✩✩✩ were more subtly disguised, whereas these The ever feral and increasingly corpulent guys, with their blood-stained lips, black Zane Lowe has dubbed this track his ‘Hottest Upon listening to the first track, I was fishnets and generally dreary attire, probably Record in the World’. Not a bad start, consid- pleased to find that this band was going to would have been staked the minute they ering most of the band are only just exiting pose me with some cerebral challenges; it stepped on stage. Shame, as then you would puberty. Accordingly, the track retains a sounded so familiar, I really had to wrack my miss their intensely sombre lyrics. Although sense of cheery, youthful buoyancy. I guess brains to come up with a valid reference. some are a tad too subjective for a mass audi- you have to admit, albeit with reluctance, it's There were the commanding female vocals, ence (“new life has found a place, it’s laid refreshing to see a band that isn't afraid to the jaunty but not chirpy rhythms that all eggs in someone’s eye”), there are also those admit that they might be, well, happy. sounded vaguely reminiscent of the Long that many can relate to. For example, Blondes but, you know, worse. After a few ‘Valentine’, which you can sing to your loved ARTIST: THE PROCLAIMERS more tracks my mental anguish eased slight- one: “Promise you’ll stay awake tonight when ly as, thankfully, they were all so derivative I load the barrel. You owe me another night! SINGLE: WHOLE WIDE WORLD that a plethora of comparisons just flooded A pony, a glass of wine.” in – but I’ll be selective. VBS have so much to offer our world, The Proclaimers, of "I would walk 500 First up there’s Evanescence, who until that you can’t help worrying, who is looking miles..." fame are back, it seems - and not now I thought were unparalleled in morose, after these benevolent creatures? Perhaps squandering away their pension fund on artless crooning. But then, they also sound someone should suggest psychiatric care, or some cottage in Scotland (as I’d always like Placebo, if just a shade less self-indul- a brownie? Something to lift the spirits. Bless assumed). Perhaps not the "stirring sing- gent and just tad more, well, awful. Yet, one them, but really, all this darkness can’t be along rock number" claimed by the press must give credit where it’s due and where healthy. release, but this cover of the Wreckless Eric ‘70s track trundles along quite pleasantly and only occasionally falls prey to monotony. The boys aren't quite back in town, but at least Craig and Charlie seem to be 'on their way...' ARTIST: TIMBALAND PRESENTS ONE REPUBLIC SINGLE: APOLOGIZE

Not your conventional Timbaland track - mostly because at first listen you could easily mistake it for the Backstreet Boys' comeback record. Granted, that's slightly harsh, but really, after all the saccharine melodics we've been inundated with this week, I really was hoping for something a bit more gritty - at the very least a bassline that doesn't lull you to sleep. Is that really so much to ask, ARTIST: DREAM THEATER ARTIST: STARS ARTIST: MY AMERICAN HEART Timbaland? Is it? VENUE: MANCHESTER APOLLO VENUE: BRUDENELL SOCIAL CLUB, ALBUM: HIDING INSIDE THE ARTIST: VINCENT VINCENT AND THE REVIEW: PETER CAMBELL LEEDS HORRIBLE WEATHER VILLAINS DATE: 06/10/07 REVIEW: SAM THOMAS REVIEW: STEPHEN MITCHELL SINGLE: ON MY OWN ✪✪✪✪✪ DATE: 02/10/07 DATE: OUT NOW Finally something with bit of zest, something ✪✪✪✪✩ ✪✪✩✩✩ For those of you who have not heard of just about sparky enough to haul me out of Dream Theater, all you need to know is that the general musical apathy that this week’s they are essentially five virtuoso musicians, Stars’ hometown Montreal is a very long way Attitudes to certain types of music are singles have thrust upon me with their all classically trained, who collectively write from Leeds in every conceivable sense, and inevitably shaped by preconceptions that unfailing mediocrity. Kicking off with a syn- some of the most complicated and original the well-worn charm of the Brudenell was a have grown to summarise an entire style. copated bluesy (bordering on reggae) beat music of our time. Although they saw and strange fit for a band who specialise in writ- ‘Emo’ is a case in point - since evolving into a followed by some a cappella style harmoniz- influenced the transition from progressive ing quirky, earnest lovesongs then swathing mainstream category it has been plagued ing and then practically prancing into some rock to progressive metal in music, only this them in a lush sound with big, bold hooks. with accusations of self-pitying lyrical ten- good honest indie-guitar strumming - genre year have Dream Theater headlined a tent at Three of their number moonlight in dencies. It is apparent that My American wise, it keeps you on your toes. Besides, the the Download Festival. On their current Canadian supergroup Broken Social Scene, Heart have nothing further to offer, or so the rhythm's infectious in that shoulder-shrug- world tour they are only playing a handful of but it’s clear from the start they’re a different first track’s opening couplet: “Your name is ging kinda way - and so, it falls upon me to dates on British soil, and have sold out proposition entirely. Opener ‘Take Me To The devastation, you filled us with frustration” admit, it’s quite good, actually. Wembley Arena. Riot’ isn’t the strongest song on their new would suggest. What particulary stands out in a Dream album, but Torquil Campbell delivers the Granted, My American Heart have ARTIST: WILLY MASON Theater show is not only the band's phenom- refrain with manic relish and co-vocalist enthusiasm and there is definitely an occa- SINGLE: GOTTA KEEP WALKIN’ enal precision but the synchronisation of that Amy Millan’s relentless enthusiasm wins sional catchiness to wannabee guitar tightness with the breathtaking lighting and over a reluctant crowd. Often they join forces anthems such as ‘Moving On’ and ‘Fantasy’. I’m not sure why it is, but record companies visual displays that comprise their two-and- Gainsbourg and Bardot-style, creating a little Yet it appears unlikely there will be anything never tire of sending me Willy Mason a-half-hour set. Despite having over 20 years sexual tension to keep things from getting genuinely attractive to a listener hoping for records. Unfortunately, since Willy basically of music to choose from, the band predomi- too mawkish. Take the whimsical ‘The First more than a few self-absorbed sentiments has one sound, they all tend to meld seam- nately stuck to a selection from their new Five Times’, where a giggling couple recollect presented in a slick but essentially empty lessly into one another. Yet, whereas with album, Systematic Chaos. Every one was their courtship – or rather, places they left fashion. Perhaps it is telling that the few most bands, monotony usually spells disas- played absolutely perfectly, and highlights embarrassing upholstery stains. impressive moments are when the band stray ter, Willy-wise it’s quite a different story. included ‘Take the Time’ (closing with a solo Big singles ‘Ageless Beauty’ and ‘Set from the formalism of overly robust numbers Mason may stick to a formula but it’s one duel between keyboardist Jordan Rudess and Yourself on Fire’ go down best with the devo- such as ‘Boys! Grab Your Guns’. ‘Dangerous’ that he executes perfectly and this latest guitarist John Petrucci) and ‘In the Presence tees down front. Ultimately, it’s ‘Elevator just about deviates from the emotionally offering showcases his unique ability to fuse of Enemies’ (a 25 minute beast of a song). Love Letter’ that seals the deal. Millan and unconvincing furrow of the rest of the album, the soothing with the haunting - like the The blistering virtuosity and the per- Campbell wring every last ounce of emotion with its slower pace and an organ-enhanced, perfect cup of coffee, it doesn’t taste much fectly executed lighting display put the show from it, belting out the chorus with wide eyes multi-textured guitar piece. different with every sip, but it still goes at the top of any live music event I have ever pleading: “Elevator, elevator, take me home.” Unfortunately, despite the (very) brief down good. been to, including last year’s Reading Stars aren’t trying to be sea-deep or glimpses of complexity shown at (rare) Festival, which is not something I would say razor-sharp: they just want you to come points, the inclusion of a track named ‘Tired Singles this week were reviewed by along for the ride. and Uninspired’ appears apt. Sara Sayeed lightly. M22 Film 23/10/07 FilmReviews

could easily be referring to Riley’s DAVIDCOATES FILM: CONTROL own performance. His struggle DIRECTOR: ANTON CORBIJN with epilepsy, which he feared was STARRING: SAMANTHA getting progressively worse, is played with subtlety and sympathy, MORTON as his fear of death gradually levels Independence SAM RILEY out with his fear of living. Curtis is Days never excused from his behaviour, REVIEW: JAMES PATTERSON however; the film – based on RUNTIME: 121 MINS Debbie Curtis’s autobiography – tries to explain his shortcomings, ✪✪✪✪✩ but it does not give him the benefit Remember The Blair Witch of the doubt, and Curtis often Project? Made for next to noth- Anton Corbijn’s Joy Division comes across as a self-centred, ing, with no script and no stars, it biopic, Control, is a complex piece almost heartless young man. His garnered over $240m in box- of work. Following the short life of affair with a Belgian music journal- office receipts. Back in the inno- Ian Curtis (Riley), the band’s lead ist, for example, seems based on cent days of ’99, there was a lot of singer, and his wife Debbie nothing more than convenience. In talk about changing power struc- (Morton), Corbijn presents an a touching scene, months into their tures and movie economics; a unflattering, unflinching account relationship, they try to get to know democratised movie business, of Curtis’s inability to cope with the each other, Curtis revealing his combined with the blossoming mounting pressures in his personal favourite colour to be ‘Man City force that the internet was and professional life, culminating blue’, much to her confusion. becoming, was to change the way in his suicide. From his schoolboy Ultimately, the film gives a bal- films could be made. It didn’t days of stealing old women’s med- anced account of Curtis’s short life, happen. Not in the way it was ication and listening to David admirably confronting the fact that expected to, anyway. Bowie, Curtis is portrayed as a many of his problems seemed self- The internet has proved flamboyant loner with poetic pre- inflicted and avoidable. niest lines. Craig Parkinson is eco- posed to Macclesfield. Corbijn itself to be a false friend at best. tensions. The film follows the trials This is not to say the film is nomically employed as the late, often draws attention – sometimes The much-hyped Snakes on a of the band as they make their completely without warmth – great Tony Wilson, used mostly as clumsily – to the background, as Plane was not a complete failure, name, tour Europe and try to con- Control is fleshed out with a num- comic relief, wisely avoiding com- posters are deployed to reveal sig- but underperformed massively by vince Tony Wilson they’re not ber of excellent supporting roles, in parison to Steve Coogan’s out- nificant character traits. In a key getting sidetracked into a con- Nazis, while keeping Ian and particular Morton’s performance as standing 24 Hour Party People. moment, Curtis finds himself gratulatory discussion about its Debbie’s relationship firmly in the Debbie, doggedly fighting to justify Control is beautifully shot, its unable to leave the dressing room own web-based buzz. It ended up spotlight. her love for a man who continually black and white depiction of the in what would prove to be his last pushing a self-indulgent publicity Control is, first and foremost, turns his back on her. Also of note late ‘70s north west is suitably gig; on the wall beside the door is a campaign under the guise of excellently cast. Riley holds noth- is Tony Kebbell’s turn as the band’s bleak, and provides a number of flyer advertising a production of ‘internet phenomenon’. As a ing back; when Curtis tries to manager, Rob Gretton, a mixture of great moments, such as a brief Peter Pan. I can’t imagine this will result, not enough mainstream explain that his work onstage has father figure and big brother, who homage to the cover of The be the last we’ll hear of either cinema fans took the project seri- left him exhausted emotionally, he has the majority of the movie’s fun- Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan, trans- Corbijn or Riley. ously, and box office takings were disappointing, despite its respectable critical reception. FILM: RATATOUILLE CLASSIC FILM: THE What could be attributed to DIRECTORS: BRAD BIRD CONVERSATIONS The Blair Witch Effect is its tech- nical forward thinking, in that it JAN PINKAVA DIRECTOR: FRANCIS FORD became the most commercially STARRING: PATTON OSWALT, COPPOLA successful independent film at the time, and was all shot on PETER O’TOOLE STARRING: GENE HACKMAN highly-affordable digital cam- REVIEW: LIAM O’BRIEN REVIEW: ALBI FURLAN eras. Although this was largely RUNTIME: 113 MINS down to practicalities of the plot RUNTIME: 110 MINS – the idea being that the footage ✪✪✪✪✩ ✪✪✪✪✩ was genuine – it still paved the way for future independent pro- Everyone loved Pixar before Cars If this movie were to be filmed in ductions by providing a viable happened. Despite showing some modern times, it would last under alternative to 35mm film. of the same flaws, such as almost half an hour. This is not, however, a As this development intro- relentless optimism and saccharine criticism, merely a reflection of duced a variety of new talent to a dialogue that wouldn’t sound out of how movies have changed, as have fairly conservative-minded place on an episode of the abhor- the expectations of viewers. industry, bigger budget studios rent Brothers and Sisters, Gene Hackman is Harry Caul, have found themselves unable to Ratatouille has been greeted with a snoop, one of the best in the busi- count on big-name vehicles. At almost undiluted critical praise. from the Parisian sewers when ness, recording people’s conversa- gressed far too slowly for the the same time, deeply personal Perhaps this is because, compared Remy and his father clash over the tions and habits for whoever offers patience-deprived modern viewer. and previously unattractive proj- to the torture of Happy Feet and role of the rat – a squabble that is the right price. Harry Caul himself The movie switches between reality ects have found a receptive audi- the capitalism in bright, choking, resolved in triumphant fashion is an introvert and a devout and Caul’s mind at times, with a ence, and – perhaps more impor- green-dollar-form in Shrek 3, it’s a before the feature’s end. Here it is: Christian who does not like to be scene reminiscent of Shining, but tantly – one that has proved prof- masterpiece. father rat says: “This is the way spied upon and on his latest assign- don’t expect special effects or jaw- itable. The result being that in While Pixar, with their infa- things are.” Remy interjects, vomit- ment realises he is collecting infor- dropping camera pans. The sound- the last few years the growing mous levels of research and techni- inducingly reminiscent of Al Gore, mation for a potential murderer. track is mostly minimalist piano, clout of independent movie festi- cal innovation, are incapable of “Change is nature and it starts What follows is a gripping per- although it is used to great effect vals like Sundance or Cannes making a bad film, there are cer- when we decide.” formance by Hackman who switch- and the concept of sound is itself have given a platform to a num- tain things about Ratatouille that Considering the rating, you es from cold and reserved to manic crucial to the movie. ber of great movies that shake off mark it out as being a lesser work may wonder what I’m talking obsessive in seamless fashion. Also In the latter parts of the movie, mainstream fluffiness; the suc- than their seminal Toy Story about. These issues, though, only look out for a fresh-faced Harrison however, things become clearer cess of productions like United movies. Brad Bird recycles the prevent a good movie from being Ford. and I suddenly realised something 93, Little Miss Sunshine and Half theme of The Incredibles; class great. It is a delightful film overall; Coppola’s direction fleshes out interesting was afoot that merited Nelson argue that unconvention- escapism for the naturally gifted Peter O’Toole’s withering critic is the character in a way that has per- paying attention. Although coming al ideas are worth getting behind. and promoting the American fantastic but underused and the haps been forgotten in modern late, the single, simple twist in the The Oscar season is more or Dream while bashing mass mar- Parisian stereotypes are hilarious. blockbusters and I must admit movie makes the whole experience less underway, judging by keting soullessness. Though the The slapstick humour, something that, at first, I simply was not worth it, and you might want to Atonement’s grating worthiness. film depicts the hectic world of incredibly difficult to pull off, is intrigued. watch it a second time to spot the It will be interesting to see how haute cuisine, it often resembles a very well done and achieves a Long silences and unimpres- subtleties you missed. All in all, the Hollywood’s finest react to the rained-off children’s tea party, so remarkable success rate. On the sive visuals did not attract the eye, movie will test your patience, but increasingly heavy footsteps of soporific and patronising is it at Champs Elysees this summer, it and while the reasons to stay inter- stick through it and you will be independent film. times. Its nadir wades ingloriously probably deserved its ovation. ested are there, the movie pro- rewarded. M23 Food and Drink 23/10/07 Food&DrinkReviews large, healthy side plates of fresh, local vegeta- RESTAURANT: THE CHURCHILL HOTEL bles which accompany many of the meals. ADDRESS: 65 BOOTHAM Besides this, the selection is perhaps a little safe and traditional, but nonetheless delicately AVE. FOOD PRICE: £15.95 tasteful despite actually serving something AVE. DRINK PRICE: £5 (stomach-churningly) called a ‘Winston Burger’. The restaurant prides itself on its sea- REVIEW: PETER HAGAN sonal menu, with ingredients sourced from ✪✪✪✩✩ farmers in the Vale of York. Most notable of all, however, is the rib eye steak, which is supreme- Students grace the restaurants of decent ly succulent, sizzling and flavoursome, as only hotels about as often as they make it through a truly well cared-for cow can be. The dessert the readings lists for their seminars. It is even menu offers all the traditional favourites - less common for them to consume three apple crumble, sticky toffee pudding and bread courses, not one of which consists of sand- and butter pudding - as well more unusual, but wiches or baked beans. This needs to be put by no means less mouth-watering options, right, and I shall explain why. For the cost of such as raspberry brulee and rhubarb cheese- A FRESHER’S £20 at the Churchill Hotel, beautifully locat- cake. ed in a lovingly restored Georgian mansion For this reason alone it is worth enduring near the Minster, which boasts three well- the painfully slow service on a busy night – MINI GUIDE: deserved stars, you can eat that many cours- which in fact may be a test of your strength to es and not feel as though financial never give in, never, never, never. Sadly, the sig- YORK’S Armageddon has brought ruin upon your nificant wait we suffered before having to per- beer money for the rest of the decade. sonally retrieve our bill was certainly not their RESTAURANTS The menu is surprisingly high quality finest half-an-hour. Overall, though, for a stu- for this reasonable a price: of particular note dent, pretty damn good food and a tasteful York’s city centre is full of really great places is the duck, which is tender, vibrant, and gen- night out for less than a few weeks’ worth of to eat and has something to suit every taste. erously portioned, as well as the satisfyingly library fines. Japanese, Mexican and Turkish restaurants sit side-by-side with the more traditional favourites of Italian, Chinese and Indian. So, RESTAURANT: J BAKER’S BISTRO RESTAURANT: DANISH KITCHEN RESTAURANT: KENDELL’S BISTRO for those despairing of their ability to pro- ADDRESS: FOSSGATE ADDRESS: HIGH OUSEGATE ADDRESS: ST PETER’S SQUARE, LEEDS duce anything even vaguely resembling a decent meal, a trip into town to investigate AVE. FOOD PRICE: £30 AVE. FOOD PRICE: £3.50 AVE. FOOD PRICE: £10 York’s restaurant scene should definitely be AVE. DRINK PRICE: £4.50 AVE. DRINK PRICE: £1.60 AVE. DRINK PRICE: £2 on the menu. REVIEW: NADEEM KUNWAR REVIEW: SELENA DHANAK, AMY BENZIANE REVIEW: AMY MILKA RESTAURANT: OSCAR’S ✪✪✪✪✪ ✪✪✪✪✩ ✪✪✪✪✩ ADDRESS: LITTLE STONE GATE

Tucked away in a particularly picturesque part of town, this classy yet relaxed restau- rant provides a truly pleasurable dining experience. The portions are generous, the service efficient and they’re really student friendly with a great happy hour at the bar. The burgers are definitely the menu’s high- light, although the steak sandwich, salads and Cajun chicken are also worth a try. RESTAURANT: AKBAR’S ADDRESS: GEORGE HUDSON STREET

Home of the famously huge ‘family naan’, Akbar’s is the place to go for a curry in York. Specialising in pan-cooked baltis from Pakistan, the restaurant has a huge range of choice, ensuring something to suit every Looking, from the outside, like a greasy cafe It was the half price offer on pastries (when Tucked below ground-level in a cosy candle- taste. The set menu is great value and will you'd find in the Truck Driver’s Guide to purchased with a hot drink) after 3.30pm lit retreat, Kendell’s offers a variety of French certainly satisfy those with big appetites. Healthy Eating, J Baker’s elegant, minimalis- that initially attracted us to this little cafe sit- dishes at reasonable prices, including a There’s even a great range of vegetarian tic interior provides a quiet yet intimate uated in the heart of York's shopping area. handy pre-theatre set meal. Despite the chic dishes. atmosphere. The staff at this Michelin-rec- We discovered, however, that, aside from the modern interior, it avoids pretension, with ommended restaurant are welcoming, various enticing deals, there are many other the menu displayed on large chalk boards on RESTAURANT: TUSCANY PIZZA friendly and attentive throughout . impressive aspects to be discovered. the wall, and the guests quietly chatting over ADDRESS: CONEY STREET The menu, though considerably limited, Danish Kitchen operates a self-service the laid-back strains of Madeleine Peyroux. provides a wild concoction of different mixes. system with helpful staff who cater for a wide The open kitchen adds to the relaxed atmos- If you are seeking an alternative to the In the end, I plumped for East Coast Cod and range of dietary needs, including gluten free phere and while we waited for our main generic pizza restaurants in York, try Spinach Tortellini for starters - described in products and vegan friendly options. The courses to arrive we enjoyed a glass of wine Tuscany Pizza. They have a stone pizza the menu as "poor man's caviar" - highlight- menu comprises jacket potatoes, sandwiches, with fresh bread and brochettes with sun- oven, ensuring delicious, crisp pizzas and ing the tremendous modesty that surrounds baguettes, quiches and omelettes, all reason- dried tomatoes and olive paste. their lasagne is great. It’s pretty reasonable this exquisite eatery. The fish theme contin- ably priced and freshly made on the premis- The main courses were ample and well- too, with pizzas starting at £4.95. The wine ued as I opted for Grilled Brill Fish accompa- es. presented; a wild mushroom tart with garlic, list is wide-ranging and reasonable and the nied with Roasted Vegetables in a tangy One of the main attractions of this cafe cheese and spinach for me, and a confit of staff are charming. lemon sauce as a main course. All the food is the mouth-watering pastries. We sampled duck leg with roast potatoes for my friend. was fantastic; the dessert of Chocolate the apple and currant pie with fresh cream, No nouvelle cuisine here: the dishes were RESTAURANT: BETTY’S TEA ROOM Orange, made from Manjari and orange which struck the right balance between fruity rustic in flavour but with a modern twist, ADDRESS: ST. HELEN’S SQUARE liqueur, was to die for. The evening was com- and sweet. Accompanied by a rich and fancy inedible trimmings being exchanged pleted with a divine North of England creamy hot chocolate, this makes the perfect for a rocket and red onion salad. Cheeseboard and an Earl Grey. treat if you want to indulge yourself. If you'd Unfortunately, as the start of the play The tea room is a quintessential part of the J Baker’s is located at the higher end of prefer a more substantial meal, a filled sand- drew near, we didn’t have time for dessert, York experience and you can’t do better than the market - it isn't somewhere you would go wich of fresh salad and ham won't set you but the choices certainly were tempting: Betty’s. With traditionally dressed staff serv- armed simply with last night’s pay-packet back much, at only around £3.00 for a gen- authentic creme brulee, tart au chocolat or a ing you high tea platters amongst the quaint from a shift at Asda. But if there's one time erous portion. frangiepan with pears. Next time I am in decor you feel really looked after. It serves a great cup of tea and the cakes are to die for. you think to yourself, "I deserve a treat" - Overall, Danish Kitchen is definitely Leeds, I will definitely be back to sample then J Baker’s is certainly the place you worth popping into for a quick bite or a some more French cuisine at this hidden By Helen Citron should head to. leisurely lunch on a wintry day in York. gem. M24 Listings 23/10/07

Clockwise from top left: The new scare flick Saw IV; one of the many big names at Wentworth Comedy, Russell Howard; Dramasoc’s Love and Understanding and not so worried about Ray - The Hoosiers LIVEMUSIC CAMPUSEVENTS Thursday October 25 Wednesday October 31 October 22 - 29 Monday November 5 The Hoosiers, Fibbers British Sea Power, Leeds Cockpit Black History Week Derwent Stars in their Eyes The Hoosiers are pretty weird. Joined by The legendary British Sea Power, a A whole week celebrating the variety and Derwent will be hosting its own version of Martin Skarendahl over a shared love of Brighton-based band, have been around for history of a diverse culture, including guest the pop-tastic talent show. If you want The Cure, Buckley and XTC; they buff up over four years now with some great venues speakers, debates, clothing and beauty, a your chance to reinvent yourself, check out a shiny great dollop of what the band like under their belt (like the Carling festival). fashion show and live music and DJs. More the Derwent college website to call Odd-Pop. Tickets £9. This is a rare chance to see the psych rock- information from Afro-Caribbean Society’s (Derwentcollege.co.uk) or Facebook. ers so close to home. Tickets £12.50. Facebook page. Sunday October 28 Thursday November 8 Spunge + Make It Better Later, Fibbers Friday November 2 Friday October 26 Comedy Night@Wentworth The mighty ska legends Spunge are com- Dizzee Rascal, Leeds Refectory MoTown, B. Henry’s For those who enjoyed the YUSU Freshers’ ing to York Fibbers this month with sup- British hip hop’s golden boy Dizzee Rascal As part of Black History Week, ACS and Week Comedy Night. Wentworth comedy port from brilliant London pop-punk will be playing the University of Leeds’s Platinum will be hosting a Motown night attracts huge international acts, with past band Short Warning and York's own Students’ Union venue and promises to put with a £50 bar tab raffle prize. A rare performances including Ross Noble and Make It Better Later. Tickets £12 or £5 YUSU’s usual offerings to shame. Tickets opportunity to escape the cheese of campus Russell Howard. Tickets £4, available in with special flyers. £14.75. events. Tickets £2.50 or £3 OTD. YourShop. ART&PERFORMANCE CINEMA November 3-24 October 26-28 Rendition Stardust Enjoy, York Theatre Royal Dramasoc’s Love and Understanding Friday October 19 Friday October 26 Wilf and Connie seem familiar: getting on This play, written in 1998 by celebrated A CIA analyst questions his assignment after In a countryside town bordering a magical a bit, bickering, wondering if the kids will British playwright Joe Penhall, will appeal witnessing an unorthodox interrogation at a land, a young man (Charlie Cox) makes a visit their two-up two-down in Leeds. to a wide audience. With themes of the secret detention facility outside the US. bizarre promise to his beloved that he'll They're just normal, aren't they? So why is medical profession, contemporary culture Starring Reese Witherspoon and Jake retrieve a fallen star by venturing into there an 'observer' scribbling in the corner? and infidelity, old barn enthusiasts as well Gyllenhaal. another realm. The generation gap, sexual politics and new as new are encouraged to come along. sociology. Both hilarious and unsettling. Saw IV The Last Legion November 2-4 Friday October 26 Friday October 26 After hearing of Detective Kerry's gruesome Veteran director Doug Lefler brings you Wake-up call October 12 - November 3 murder, two veteran FBI agents, Agent The Last Legion. As the mighty Roman Limbo, York Theatre Royal ''It would be absurd to think that a book can Strahm and Agent Perez, assist Detective empire crumbles beneath its own pressure, A young Catholic gives her confession from cause riots''. The Rushdie affair, the fatwa: Hoffman in sorting out the remains of the young Romulus Augustus flees the city and the edge of Camlough Lake. She speaks of an inescapable, probing spotlight seeking Jigsaw's last game. However, SWAT Team’s embarks on a perilous voyage to Britain to her first love and a relationship with a man out the British Muslim. Wake up Call exam- Commander Rigg has been put into a deadly track down a legion of supporters. Starring twice her age. As the lake’s darkness calls to ines a pivotal moment in the history of mul- game himself, despite the death of both Colin Firth (Mr Darcy) and Ben Kingsley her, she will do anything for peace. ticultural Britain. £4.50 for non-members. Jigsaw and his apprentice. (Lucky Number Slevin).

SPONSORED BY SNAPPY SNAPS NOUSE :THE UNIVERSITY OF YORK STUDENT NEWSPAPER 12 Comment Tuesday October 23 2007 Meet Edward Cider-hands Picture perfect? Alcohol consumption is not central to a university education Our University brochures tell a false story

Unlike many universities, York points of my time at York. God, I far as Derwent, where that big is fairly tame when it comes to the thought, is this what’s expected of Joe Chapman green sign (still) proudly predicts drinking culture and initiation cer- me? Am I going to do this for the completion of work by the end of Will Heaven emonies that go hand in hand with next three years until I learn to like Contributing September. As for the accommoda- Contributing Writer student life. Many sports societies it? Fortunately, I soon realised my Writer tion blocks, is it really any surprise go out of their way to ensure fresh- fellow freshers weren’t enjoying it that tours were largely restricted to ers won’t have to humiliate them- much either, and we now look back James and Alcuin? selves in order to play. But the news amusedly on our early student days. Because of course, when one that a Derwent bar rep forced But some people don’t. ascends that twisting walkway, Have you ever met Edward freshers to ‘down’ pints of milk and How many of us know people Heslington East, the massive crosses the University road (maybe Cider-hands? Edward is a hapless ginger beer in order to make them who never go out to drink and feel expansion of our university that catching a glimpse of one of those fresher with a very large bottle of sick certainly made me queasy. And less accepted because of it? Or peo- gained approval from the beautiful buses as you go) and sets cider gaffa-taped to each hand. it wasn’t the noxious mixture of the ple that came out once in Freshers’ Government in May following a eyes upon the striking library and Neither bottle may be removed drinks. It was the repellent idea Week and never again? It is time protracted planning application its neighbouring buildings, one’s until its contents are gone. that some twisted individual the JCRs realise that many stu- process, has been debated in this impression of the University Thankfully, I have never met thought it was fun to watch people dents have come to York to study publication and elsewhere far too becomes quite different. Edward in York, but encountered vomit, plus the sad fact that others and make good friends but fail to much for it to be worthwhile for me And that’s exactly my point him at another university. He was felt pressured into demeaning do the latter because of what they to add my two penn’orth. about Heslington East. The new desperately seeking someone to themselves in front of their peers. feel is expected of them. Freshers’ However, it struck me that this campus, when – if – it’s eventually help him with the inevitable prob- As a naïve fresher I once sat in Week was alcohol-fuelled and still huge and extremely expensive con- finished, will undoubtedly be a lems arising from drinking large my college kitchen swigging from a fun, but I propose that next year, struction project was just the tip of learning and living environment to quantities of cider and not having bottle of vodka being passed York offers students one main- the iceberg. When I returned to be proud of, and the University will the use of one’s hands. around. It was one of the lowest stream sober event. York at the beginning of October, I rightly be proud to advertise it to found a campus that in places bet- prospective students, but one fears ter resembled a building site than for the future of the original build- an esteemed educational establish- ings – once-impressive concrete Waste not, want not, YUSU ment. structures, some of which must This has caused some signifi- surely be reaching the end of their cant inconvenience to many fresh- shelf life. Ditch the Freshers’ Fair freebies and stop sucking our souls ers (as Nouse reported in the previ- The next few years, in particu- ous issue) – hardly an impressive lar, is likely to see a serious dearth start to their university career. But of investment in the maintenance this: a scrum for time and money and brighter posters, more fliers, what about those who haven’t of what is after all the nucleus of that sucks at the soul of the unwary more free sweets, more gimmicks. already committed themselves to the University, as money is pumped individual. Here’s my dream. YUSU limits coming here? into giving some nearby green-belt University Societies do a lot the resources used on P&P to a It may have escaped the atten- fields a spectacular new look. Not Jim Durdin that’s worthwhile, and I would not handful of posters. Fliers and free tion of many of you, but the Friday to mention the on-campus con- Contributing Writer say otherwise for a moment, but the sweets are banned. Lets say a third before Freshers’ Week saw the struction of the new buildings at developed world should be past the of the resources then saved, confis- annual October Open Day, when Vanbrugh, which will only stick out point where it treats resources as cated from societies, are spent on thousands of starry-eyed secondary like a particularly ugly opposable playthings. Take your pick of envi- getting freshers to the Fair, inform- school kids wandered along the digit in the midst of structures ronmental issues, but underlying ing them about student services concrete banks of our beloved arti- from a different age. them all is an uncomfortable bot- and societies, and buying everyone ficial lake, parents in tow, to get a But so long as the website and Waste, excess, extravagance: tom-line: our society uses too much an impartial tasty treat. The other taste of what life is like at one of prospectus can continue to carry Freshers’ week in a slogan, and stuff, and the first thing to go two thirds could then be used for Britain’s best universities. pictures of shiny white buildings nowhere was this clearer than in should be nonsense like this. something more worthwhile than What they saw surely could and smiling students (with the odd the aftermath of the Freshers’ Fair. Freshers’ week is hardly an the extra advertising for Go-Down- not have impressed them much. picturesque shot of Heslington The ravaging hordes came, went exception to the consumerist rule. The-Pub-With-Your-Mates Soc. New accommodation blocks still in Hall thrown in for good measure), and left only wreckage, like some Rather than seeking out what we And if there are any liberals the state of a building site, an ugly those dreamy teenagers will con- barbarian-ravaged border outpost. want, we say: “go on then, impress objecting to this authoritarian pro- chipboard wall lining the Vanbrugh tinue to set their hearts on this Discarded fliers drift like tumble- me; and if you don’t, I have posal, please look into your souls bank of the lake, several ‘automatic’ place. It’s a shame they will experi- weed across the floor, posters hang options.” The onus is on the pro- and ask: is the right to shove pieces doors that need a bit of encourage- ence the kind of nasty surprise that limply and impotently from walls. ducer to constantly provide better of paper into the hands of bemused ment, and countless areas in need has greeted so many freshers upon If ever there was a case of universi- this, improved that and new the first-years really a fundamental lib- of a good lick of paint. their arrival at York and its campus ty as microcosm of society, it was other. In this case, it means bigger erty? Let’s hope none of them got as of contrasts.

Do you want to appear on these pages? Email [email protected] for details of our next meeting. ‘Super’, perhaps, but does York really need a new club? The council is at fault for favouring student wants over the needs of the rest of the community

other day, saying how they had find. Do we want or need a new that local opinion is divided on the It seems to me that the council “only” been to Toffs and Ziggys so venue? project. Obviously York residents may be seriously at fault for the sit- far. What to say? I recognise that this argument aren’t too mad about hordes of uation. However, I suppose that, to Tom Simon-Norris Maybe that next June, a new might not go down well with the rabid students passing by their most students, these ‘outside’ issues Contributing Writer ‘super-club’ will open on the site of student population. Of course we’re doorsteps, but this isn’t the real just aren’t important at all, encased the former Barbican leisure com- not going to turn down a 3000- reason for the opposition. The as we are in the bubble that is uni- plex. York’s last super-club, capacity super-club on our Barbican complex used to be a mas- versity life. Ikon/Diva, is now almost forgotten, doorstep. sive publicly owned sports and I’m not even sure whether having closed down in 2005. More rooms of music, big- leisure centre. they’re that important to me; I’ll be Often when I’m asked the question, Nothing against the existing clubs name DJs, hopefully more new cut- It seems the council couldn’t leaving York in a few years anyway. ‘is York a good night out?’ I give a in York, but they’re certainly not ting edge electronic music and less run the facility competently; the All the same, it might be worth con- confused answer. There’s nothing ‘super-clubs’. However, this is con- of the old cheese: it all sounds pret- long-derelict site has now been sold sidering whether a new superclub wrong with York at all – who could nected with what makes student ty good, especially when you con- off to Absolute Leisure at what is such an indispensible boon. honestly imagine life without the nights out in York great – you see sider the restaurants, bars and con- appears to have been an absurdly “terrible triumvirate” of Toffs, everybody you know. This is totally cert hall that are to be included. low price. Therefore, all the com- More information Ziggys and Gallery? The thing is, different to the ‘massive party cities’ Maybe we’ll get some decent bands munity facilities, including two >> www.saveourbarbicanyork.org.uk it’s is not what I would call a “crazy of Leeds, Manchester and Sheffield, again, without night-tripping to swimming pools, two gyms and a student party city”. I pity the fresh- where the choice is much greater Leeds. climbing wall, will not be replaced Website campaigning on the plans, er overheard in Vanbrugh bar the and your mates much harder to It’s worth mentioning, though, if the plans go ahead. with the responses of local residents. NOUSE :THE UNIVERSITY OF YORK STUDENT NEWSPAPER 13 Letters Tuesday October 23 2007

Nouse welcomes your letters. Please indicate if they are not intended for publication. Sara Sayeed Email [email protected] or write to: Goes way back Letters Nouse, Grimston House, Vanbrugh College NOW, WHILE THE resident goes way back columnist uses historiocity as a convenient excuse to indulge his micro-film fetish, I Well done, Prof. Afshar don’t really equate the library with play-time. Star Letter So we’ll take a briefer amble down memory Dear Nouse, lane and skip back two, rather than twenty years. The bygone days of the Fresher epoch, I want to congratulate Prof. Haleh Afshar on circa 2005: somewhat best recounted by that her appointment to the House of Lords. wayward reveller Dickens as “the best of Haleh taught me at the University and times, the worst of times, it was the age of Getting Extra from the NUS? her knowledge and integrity are not easily wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was matched. She has always stood up for stu- the epoch of belief….” Apart from the perma- Dear Nouse, which would discourage people from pay- dents, equality of opportunity, for women nent troughs under my eyes and an ingrained ing for the extra card. I think it is fair and for minorities. She has basically spoken dose of nourishing cynicism, quite a bit has I think it is ridiculous that students are enough to give students the option to pay up for fairness and those who cannot speak changed within those seemingly brief twen- now forced to buy an NUS Extra card to for the extra card as it gives special dis- up for themselves. ty-four months. We came, we saw, we fal- attain proof of student status. It should be counts with certain companies, but mak- Her work has been very inspirational to tered (mostly on Micklegate) and life just the right of any student to be able to prove ing people pay for discounts they will my politics and I wish her all the best. She passed the sozzled ones by. In my day, Ziggy’s that they are a student without having to never use is out of the question. will definitely be a "people's peer", and I was a place where the scantily clad ventured pay for it. Once again the NUS has let everyone know she will do a great job. to be appraised by the grope happy, and now From what I am aware, the NUS have down with its selfishness and lack of con- on Friday’s it is a “Strip Club”. Ok, so really changed their voting system to an online sideration of students' interest. I really James Alexander only a semantic alteration there, but some one so that the 'democracy card' available hope things improve after I finish this year. Labour Councillor progression at least. Even Goodricke wasn’t last year need not exist. I see this as a very built in a day. We have seen the demise of the sneaky move that undermines the interest Yours sincerely, baby-belling. Once upon a time, Freshers of the students they are meant to protect. could strive towards their aspirations of culi- I imagine that NUS got rid of the Chris Baume nary innovation – it provided a different democracy card as students were still get- Fourth Year Student experimentation outlet for those “late ting discounts from shops using the bloomers”. Indeed, in times past gastronom- democracy card as proof of student status, By email ic mountains have been conquered with the baby-belling. I heard tell of a full Christmas dinner being exe- cuted with one – albeit that abandoned Fresher Tea breaks and incompetence probably had a bit of time on their hands to Dear Nouse, bitch to say to a trembly voiced fresher “well hone the necessarily skills you’ll just have to send it quickly and hope we Then and now: Haleh in 1964, and today to achieve that feat, but I was pleased to see Jenny O’Mahony’s piece have something left”. what are today’s Freshers on the Holiday Inn fiasco (Nouse, October 9 On receiving a letter detailing local going to do when heart- 2007). As a second year who was severely B&Bs, I am not ashamed to say I cried. There lessly discarded by fucked around by the accommodation office are times when there is no shame in getting Corrections mummy and daddy come last year, it’s about time something was done. your angry dad to call on your behalf. In fact, Christmas holidays? They Their incompetence and lack of communica- in this case, it worked. In last edition’s feature on decorating can’t even go make friends tion was astonishing. Despite calling on a If all it takes is a pushy parent to solve a student rooms, one of the pictures fea- with Fit Duck for some com- weekly basis, it took until about a week problem, I’m sure some changes could be tured candles. The University have forting conversation – because he’s dead. Fit before the start of term for anyone to realise made that meant there were fewer homeless asked us to point out that lighting Duck’s nesting/resting grounds have also they’d never got my accommodation applica- freshers and fewer students turning up disil- candles in University accomodation is altered. With the removal of the lake foun- tion. God bless the Royal Mail. lusioned with university beaurocracy. against regulations due to the fire risk. tain, gone are the days when sporadic bursts I just think in a university where we’re Therefore, please ensure you leave of pond spew dropped most delightfully in constantly being reminded that welfare Gretchen Revuelta your candles unlit, as we did. Maybe one’s hair and coffee on the way to morning reforms are being made, the inept hags - who Second Year Student turn a light on though, or else you’ll lectures. So there we are - changes. And I by the way are always on a tea break - are a bump into things. didn’t even have to fondle any micro-film. gross oversight. It takes a special kind of By air mail

Getting a bit Now that they’re seeing York in the cold light of day, what do its newest students make of the big issues on campus? This time, fresh... YUSU’s sexy (or is it just sexist?) freebie giveaway...

Name: Katie Williams Name: Elly Veness Name: Mark Pickard Name: Alex Russell College: Vanbrugh College: James College: Halifax College: Vanbrugh Subject: English and Subject: English Subject: Gender Subject: English and History Literature Studies Philosophy

The really sad thing is, this University This demeaning use of ‘his-and-hers’ As a gender studies student, I am well- Obviously, it was only meant as a bit of hadn't even been built when the idea of sepa- bags is outdated and wrong. For YUSU to acquainted with gender. I like to think I have fun: YUSU wouldn't have intended to offend “rating the sexes started going out of fashion. “pigeon-hole the students they should be a firm grasp of women. Although it's easy to people. However, more consideration should This sort of gender specification is complete- defending is just embarrassing. I was affront- understand“ why plenty of people were “have be given to the contents of these bags. ly outmoded. I always imagined university to ed to find cellulite cream amongst the pam- offended by the distribution of FHM, YUSU Although FHM may be popular with the be a place of ideas – new ones, exciting ones; phlets and paper, as if having had free pizza handed them out in good faith and in my British male population, that doesn't mean somewhere to push boundaries and defy at the Fair I should want to use it! The differ- opinion the whole incident was blown out of everyone likes ogling half-naked women. stereotypes. The fact that someone even con- ence in items for guys and girls may have proportion. Ultimately who are we to com- These bags should instead be of more use to sidered this segregation is worrying – that it been an attempt at tongue-in-cheek humour, plain about free stuff from a fresher's fair? Freshers during their first week. The Baked actually happened and that it was the Union but it’s a step too far. I wish YUSU would stop Especially free stuff that has the potential to Beans were a great idea, so something similar that did it, is, frankly, disturbing. I am very dividing us by gender and see us collectively bring pleasure to so many. Let’s keep our hair would be more appropriate. Toilet roll? disappointed in YUSU. ” for what we are: York students! ” on, shall we? ” Pasta? Toothpaste? ” NOUSE: THE UNIVERSITY OF YORK STUDENT NEWSPAPER 14 Politics Tuesday October 23 2007 Pakistan’s short, sharp handshake Will Heaven examines Pakistan’s international relations in light of the recent assasination attempt on Benazir Bhutto

he bombs which an interesting change has radio) it has only given the killed more than a occurred in the last few pro-democracy lobby more hundred of Benazir years. Now, just before the to shout about. The General’s TBhutto’s supporters nations’ flags are lowered, dismissal and quick rein- in Karachi on Thursday one soldier from each side statement of Pakistan’s Chief night marked the beginning approaches the border gates. Justice in March was another of a new episode in Pakistani These are opened and the blunder. But Musharraf has politics. It was not the start sharpest of handshakes is soldiered on, a neutered and that the former Prime exchanged. It is symbolic in ineffective dictator. Minister, returning from its brevity, but is a visible Pakistan has two main eight years of self-imposed sign of a real improvement in issues to address. First, its exile, had hoped for. But over international relations. In international relations, most the course of her political 2002, a million troops lined importantly with the USA career, Bhutto has made the Kashmir border and the and India. Second, the polit- numerous enemies. world feared full-scale ical chaos that has enveloped Ms Bhutto’s father, nuclear war. Now, the two the country, chiefly the surge Zulfikar Ali, is the reason countries are engaged in of Muslim extremism. behind her career in the long-term peace talks. Clearly the two issues are Pakistan Peoples’ Party But Pakistan has had a linked: if Pakistan cannot (PPP). His controversial exe- difficult year. Since 2001 and effectively combat pro- cution in 1979 for allegedly Musharraf’s decision to side Taleban rebels then US sup- ordering the killing of a with the USA in the ‘war on port will wane. Pakistan’s political opponent launched Terror’, the struggle with relations with India may his daughter’s political career pro-Taleban Muslims has have improved, but with no and tied her to politics in a proved difficult for the stable government there can way that mirrors the Nehru- General. It culminated in the be no long-term solutions. Gandhi dynasty in India. She infamous Lal Masjid siege in Many think Musharraf has twice been Prime July this year. Hardline mili- now lacks the political sup- Minster and twice been tants took control of the Red port of the Pakistani public sacked for charges of corrup- Mosque in Islamabad to and a return to democracy tion. But Bhutto’s return to protest against a government seems inevitable. But, realis- Pakistan has been on the demolition programme tically, how long will Bhutto cards for over a year: she is aimed at illegally-built survive? She had only been often referred to by the mosques. The army opera- in the country a few hours Pakistani press as “the lady- tion to end the siege, which before an attempt on her life in-waiting”. killed more than 50 mili- was made. The finger was Anyone who has wit- tants, rekindled the naturally pointed at Taleban nessed the border closing Waziristan war as pro- sympathisers, but why were ceremony at Wagah between Taleban rebels rejected a 10- the streetlights off where the India and Pakistan, which I month-old peace deal with bombs were detonated? The was fortunate enough to see the Pakistani government assassination attempt could this summer, will have some and began attacking near the easily have been organised by idea of the relationship the Afghan border. the secret services, the army two countries have. The cere- As military dictators go, or even Musharraf’s sympa- mony is full of pomp, mili- Musharraf has never been a thisers. Zulfikar Ali Bhutto tary splendour and one-gun- fearsome leader. Anti-gov- famously wrote from his manship, and the fiercest ernment protests have usual- prison cell, ‘My destiny is in and tallest soldiers from the ly been allowed to proceed, the hands of the people. Only sub-continent are hand- and although media censor- the people have the right to picked to stomp and scream ship has been imposed on sever or seal their affinities every evening at sunset in occasion, in the day of the with me.’ His daughter Benazir Bhutto returned to Karachi this week from Dubai; the corruption charges front of cheering crowds. But internet (or even pirate shares his fate. against her have been dropped however her life already seems to be in danger Facebook and Myspace: the new political weaponry

Matthew Hogarth incohesive American popula- has a MySpace page that An apparently genuine letter tion. allows donations to be given accompanied by McCain’s THE POSSIBILITIES of Democratic candidate directly to his campaign, and picture appeared, stating using sites such as Facebook Barack Obama is at the fore Mormon Republican Mitt ‘Dear Supporters, Today I and MySpace as political of this campaigning method: Romney charms visitors with announce that I have tools have only recently been with 154,795 Facebook an Elvis tune. reversed my position and realised. With each attract- friends and regularly updat- But for every compli- come out in full support of ing over 20 million regular ed statuses, his ‘wall’ is filled ment, there is an equally pas- gay marriage…particularly users, and a system that with tributes from support- sionate attack. The divisive marriage between two pas- allows voters to be targeted ers and is linked to the group Hilary Clinton provokes the sionate females.’ individually as ‘friends’, cam- ‘One Million Strong for most hostile reaction. 1,035 UK politicians are wari- paigning through social net- Barack’, which attracted Facebook members promise er of the sites. David works is increasingly impor- 278,000 members within a to move to Australia if she is Cameron and Gordon Brown tant for reaching young peo- month of being created. “I’m elected President, while 1,757 do not officially have profiles, ple. making Paris Hilton look like would prefer to vote for a but Boris Johnson’s The shrewdest users of a recluse”, said the Senator of trained chimpanzee. ‘Appreciation Society’ boasts online networks so far have his online exposure. Republican Senator 17,000 members. There cer- been the 2008 US There are few US elec- John McCain faced problems tainly is a conversation going Presidential hopefuls, who tion contenders that have not in March this year when his on, even if it is entitled are using the sites to reach a Barack Obama’s Facebook page gives details of his yet grasped this opportunity. MySpace page was hacked by ‘David Cameron is a hottie’ vast, diverse and notoriously 2008 Presidential campaign. He has 155,679 friends. Republican Rudy Giuliani his own software designer. (736 members). Your career is no laughing matter.

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Red Gate Software Ltd. t: +44 (0)870 160 0037 ext.8556 St John’s Innovation Centre, f: +44 (0)870 063 5117 Cowley Road, Cambridge e: [email protected] CB4 0WS United Kingdom www.red-gate.com ingeniously simple tools NOUSE: THE UNIVERSITY OF YORK STUDENT NEWSPAPER 16 Politics Tuesday October 23 2007 To die for an honour not your own Two hundred murder cases in the UK have been reopened to investigate whether ‘honour killings’ were the real cause of death. Anjli Raval explores the growing phenomenon within UK Asian communities

onour Killings’ committed by male family issue said, “The cases that have no excuse for denying women Most victims this category with a further 20 continue to be a members against female rela- been reported in recent years their basic human rights - every of honour involving some element of ‘hon- problem in the UK tives, and in some cases moth- show that there is still limited man and every woman has the killings are our’ violence. ‘Hwith Home Office ers and sisters are also involved. knowledge of the impact of right to live their lives without Muslim Kate Nevens from End figures suggesting that there are The practice of honour ‘honour’-based violence and lit- fear of violence.” women from Violence Against Women, an around 12 such murders each killings is most prevalent within tle resistance to so-called ‘hon- It was disclosed in court families in organisation allied to Amnesty year, although police believe the Muslim families in the Middle our’ killings in communities that Mahmood had told the International, said, “we believe genuine figure is much higher. East. Victims in the UK tend to where it is prevalent.” police on four occasions that the Middle that a more holistic, strategic In a recent BBC poll of 500 be from Middle-Eastern and This statement comes in her family were trying to kill East approach needs to be taken Muslim, Hindu, Sikh and South East Asian backgrounds light of the murder of Banaz her, but her claims were dis- with regards to violence against Christian UK Asians, 10% said and common reasons for the Mahmood, a 20 year old missed as melodrama. The women. The government lacks that they would condone the murder of a family member, Kurdish woman who was found Metropolitan Police Force has a coherent and concerted murder of an individual who include the refusal to enter into buried in a suitcase in a garden been criticised for its handling approach to preventing violence had disrespected their family an arranged marriage, commit- in Birmigham. Her father and of Banaz's case with five officers happening in the first place.” honour ting adultery, seeking a divorce, uncle were found guilty in June facing an internal disciplinary Marie-Anne Rogers, Killing in the name of hon- or adopting a Western attitude. 2007 of murdering her, because inquiry. YUSU’s Women’s Officer, said, our is often considered a private In some cases, victims of rape she had fallen in love with a Since the death of “The media attention given to matter. However, in recent and sexual assault are mur- man her family did not want her Mahmood, police chiefs have recent ‘honour killings’ can only years, more and more cases dered for the ‘dishonour’ they to marry. re-opened 200 cases of deaths be beneficial in making the pub- have reached UK courts. have brought to the family. YUSU Academic and and murders between 1996 and lic aware of the horrific crimes Nonetheless, many crimes still Dr Aisha Gill, a Senior Welfare Officer, Grace Fletcher- 2006 to see if ‘honour killings’ some women have suffered. remain unresolved and unde- Lecturer at Roehampton Hall said, “People need to get it were the actual cause of death. Whether in Britain, or else- tected. The crime is usually University and an expert on the into their heads that 'culture' is Since then, 19 have fallen into where, it is never acceptable”. Campbell resigns to leave Oxbridge majority

Peter Campbell were ‘University of Life’ men it comes to the top job. Oxbridge, it remains an way to the very highest posi- Callaghan and Major. I’m not saying that non- Ivory Tower. The Institute of tions, since the old Oxonians WHETHER OR NOT you So what hope is there Oxbridge students won’t suc- Public Policy Research, will always win? like Gordon Brown, at least for those who are not at ceed. Many of you will be states that “Oxbridge cur- I am not saying, “Avoid he didn’t take the typical Oxford – like we poor beg- very successful (Harriet rently take 40% of their stu- student politics!” YUSU, route to leadership: he didn’t gars at the University of Harman is an ex-Yorker!). dents from private schools, NUS and the student politi- go to Oxbridge. David York? However, the Oxbridge gang which account for just 7% of cal party groups are all a Cameron did. So did the two A week after Freshers’ always seems to beat us to the national student popula- good way of getting young candidates to succeed dear Fair, ambitious young stu- the very top. To paraphrase tion.” people to engage with cur- old Glasgow Graduate dents embark on a three- Ali G, “Is it cos they is The question “do we rent affairs and, like all stu- Menzies Campbell: Chris year slog to the top. Those clever?” Or is there another want our country run by dent societies, are a chance Huhne and Nick Clegg. Both hoping to hack their way up reason? Does it matter? Oxbridge graduates” is irrel- to meet like-minded people. Ed Balls and David the hierarchy of YUSU, NUS, Surely it makes sense for the evant: it already is. York is But unless you fancy you can Miliband, the likely succes- or even the national Tory/ country to be run by the one of the best universities in overturn centuries of prece- sors to Brown, are Oxbridge Labour/LibDem student most apparently intelligent Britain, and is beginning to dent, when you begin your alumni, as were Blair, groups may well be disap- people? enjoy worldwide acclaim, but ascent of the greasy pole in Thatcher, Heath and Wilson. pointed. But that is where the it’s still not Oxford. That is the humble environs of the In recent times, the only two Hack away; but be pre- elite system falls short. no bad thing, but does it Students’ Union, you might British Prime Ministers who Lib Dem leader Menzies pared to tug your forelock to Regardless of the academic mean you should not be con- do well to accept that the top weren’t Oxbridge graduates Campbell has resigned your Oxbridge betters when brilliance or reputation of sidering student politics as a job may elude you. NOUSE :THE UNIVERSITY OF YORK STUDENT NEWSPAPER Sponsored by Tuesday October 23 2007 Snappy Snaps Sports 17 MatthewJeynes ‘It doesn’t really matter whether you play for University or College - just play some sport!’

s you freshers reach the to college ones. end of your opening two In college sport, you are pretty weeks, blink your drink- much socialising constantly – dur- Ahazed eyes and emerge, ing training, matches and in grunting probably, into sunlight, between. By contrast, sports club stumbling around like Bambi after events seem to be the social equiva- a particularly hard night on the lent to binge drinking, in that you mossy ale, exercise may not be high train and play all week, then dress on the list of priorities. (I am sim- ridiculously, consume obscene ply remembering my own discovery amounts of alcohol and (for the of a world outside alcohol). men, anyway) produce laughable Anyway, when the need for exercise attempts to dance in Ziggy’s. does rear its ugly head, each one of Incidentally, surely the you is faced with the age-old prob- impulse that causes most sports- lem: do I play college or university men to remove their tops in clubs sport? should be the subject of some sort It is commonly assumed that of scientific enquiry - surely it people who play university sport would be worth the funding, more are better than their college coun- than most other inane studies car- terparts – that college sportsmen ried out. are the University’s rejects. Anyone Up until now, I perhaps who has ever played college sport haven’t given university sport a fair would contend this, and not just plug in comparison to college, but it because no-one particularly wants does have its positive aspects - and to be called a reject. It is simply many of them. As it is so driven, that university sport is not every- with so much work involved, the one’s cup of tea, and there are real- You don’t have to play for York’s Rugby 1sts against Lancaster in the Roses to enjoy playing sport rewards, both in a physical and a ly only a small percentage of people mental sense, are greater. It is who are truly suited to playing con- even drunk – participants not only as the actual playing. can do it simply for the enjoyment beyond doubt that the sense of sistantly competitive sport. That tolerated but actively expected, Come to think of it, I’m not of the sport, or you can engage in achievement is higher in university does not make the rest “worse” in even in the more competitive sure how many college sportsmen all the other accompanying social sport – the commitment that the any way sports, such as football. While the would appreciate being compared aspects, such as the infamous players put in ensures that the emo- It takes a definite level of com- games can still be heavily competi- to a bunch of paunch-ridden mid- Langwith football ‘punch’. tions from both winning and losing mitment, passion and love of your tive, the focus leans far more dle-aged men doing anything to University sport is not nearly are certain to be higher than if one sport to train five days a week and towards enjoyment than it does for stay away from home on a Sunday so open or friendly. You play hard, just turned up slightly hungover for consistently compete for the university sport. Apart some some afternoon. you socialise just as hard. a bit of a kick-around. University. To have that drive is an notable exceptions - football having I guess college sport is whatev- Participants will argue that it is just Whatever you decide to do, admirable attribute, but it is not already been mentioned - college er you make of it. You can trundle as sociable as college sport – most just make sure you play at least very common. Neither is it a partic- sport is more of a social event, with on down to the sports hall in a even recommend the social side of some sport during your degree, ularly genetic attribute, as a sports- a bit of competitive pride thrown in spare few minutes for a spot of their clubs as one of the main even if it is just for 10 minutes every man’s drive can come and go. to the mix; sort of the youthful table-tennis, or you can put the incentives for joining – but there other weekend - just to halt that Compared to that, college sport is equivalent of a pub team, where the effort in and try to get involved just seems to be something slightly slide towards that ever-increasing very laid back, with hungover - or socialising matters almost as much with some football or netball. You different to club socials compared beer belly. Do gender stereotypes discourage sportswomen?

By Jenny O’Mahony female and male sports divvied up been marred by this kind of experi- difficult place to be a sports fan, from school age, when it is really ence. After my Year 7 PE teacher with emphasis on the inner work- DEPUTY EDITOR unnecessary to do so. laughed out loud at my skinny legs, ings of the hallowed corridors of This unhealthy preoccupation I instinctively shied away from The Guardian taking precedence Sport is characterised by stereo- with the ‘right’ sport for your gen- sport. I spent Games lessons stand- over the rough-and-tumble of cam- types. Hysterical footballers, der has wider implications. Women ing at the back of the line, pretend- pus Hockey fixtures, let alone Neanderthal rugby players and are 15% less likely to participate in ing to be ill or just making snide Rugby. One gets the distinct shrieking tennis aces abound, and sport than their male counterparts, remarks about the teacher. Aside impression that the people around all too often the stars of sport feel and in organised team sport this from my own personal tragedy, I me were the ones picked last for compelled to live up to the public’s figure is much higher. Female box- also have a lacrosse-playing friend teams as well, and most would have image of who they are. Campus is ers, cricketers, even plain old net- who says that she rarely tells any rather be ignored altogether and no different when it comes to the ball players are accused of being new people that she meets about not be picked. stock characters which supposedly ‘manly’ just for having muscles, so the sport she plays, principally Gender stereotyping does not exist, such as the butch female it is no wonder that by the time because of the reaction she gets. help the cause of sport and neither sportswoman. How many women many of them get to university they She says that it is especially bad does it make our chronically obese have been put off from even trying a give up. from other women. nation any less so. All forms of particular sport because of the This also means that the pool The stigma can also be to do physical exercise are beneficial, and abuse they are sure to receive from of talent for clubs to pick from is with the assumptions about sports when young people are put off by their friends? How many are dis- shallow, lowering the overall stan- teams. Not every sports player needless stigmas, it only serves to couraged by how men will see them dard of sport, which inevitably drinks themselves stupid on punch further entrench negative attitudes if they become “butch”? encourages yet fewer women to fol- every week, even if, to be complete- towards the healthy lifestyle we The problem is that sport as a low their example. ly honest, most of them do. constantly claim to be striving for, whole then becomes gendered, with Venus Williams, tennis player My own record with sport has However, the Nouse office can be a but which few achieve. Sponsored by NOUSE :THE UNIVERSITY OF YORK STUDENT NEWSPAPER 18 Sports Snappy Snaps Tuesday October 23 2007 York demonstrate efficient performance to begin new BUSA season with style

substantial lead that was WOMEN’S NETBALL unlikely to be taken away York 33 from them, they displayed York St. John 14 great skill and determination in defence, fighting tirelessly By Beth Cornwall to prevent the St John shoot- SPORTS CORRESPONDENT ers from getting the ball near the post. York WD Hannah THE NETBALL season got Martin made a number of off to a flying start this week successful attempts to keep with the York University 1sts the St John GA out of the cir- strolling to a convincing 33- cle, leaving both circle 14 win over local rivals York defence, Tess Olsen and St John. Despite only a few Katie Cowper-Johnson, able days of training and numer- to put considerable pressure ous changes from last year’s on the remaining shooter. squad, the home team dis- This immaculate display played great cohesion and resulted in York only conced- confidence on court, leading ing three goals in the last to a comfortable triumph. quarter to take the victory During their pre-match easily. huddle, the team, captained Credit must be given to by centre court player Amy the two first-year circle Smith, showed determina- attacks, Sami Briggs and tion and a sense of unity Sarah Fisher who, despite before the players even constant pressure and hassle stepped onto court. Coupled by the St John defence, were with the amount of support able to consistently work the coming from the sidelines, ball around the circle to the game promised to be an receive it under the post, exciting one. resulting in numerous goals, The match started with and therefore in impressive a St John centre, but tight debuts. marking in the centre third York’s women 1sts strolling to a convincing and comfortable win in their opening match of the new season led to St John being York Lineup penalised for a held ball, gift- secured York the first goal of as they led the match 11-5. Clare Shaw in particular dis- tion and cohesiveness on the GK-Tess Olson, GD-Katie ing York the possession. the match. Due to the success of the played excellent skills when court. This meant that a Cowper-Johnson,WD-Kate Unfortunately this was not From the second centre first quarter no changes were being double marked at the number of chances to inter- Brunskill/Hannah Martin, C- taken advantage of due to a York produced a flawless dis- made to positioning and the centre passes, where she was cept were squandered. Amy Smith (c),WA-Clare throw-away ball in the goal play of netball, and within strength displayed at the able to manoeuvre herself Although the team retained Shaw/Laura Longworth, GA- third. A stunning intercep- seconds of the whistle had beginning of the match was into an unmarked space each their lead, they lacked the Sarah Pycroft/Sarah Fisher, tion by GA Sarah Pycroft on secured their lead with a further evident in the second time. fluidity seen earlier in the GS-Sami Briggs the defensive gave York their four-ball set piece move, quarter. Efficient consistency York made a number of match, as was shown by the first opportunity to push the which lead to the second goal and effective communication positional changes going into number of throw-away balls Woman of the match ball into the circle, and a well of the match. By the end of between the players allowed the third quarter, including and missed opportunities at Clare Shaw - Showed great organised back up on the cir- the first quarter spirits were the York team to dominate captain Amy Smith, which goal. skill creating space with her cle edge by the attack high among the York players all areas of the court. WA resulted in less communica- Although York had a movement and passing Doubles’ strength ensures close York victory

MEN’S BADMINTON to give York the perfect start. showed superior speed the victory to “a solid doubles Duy’s brand of no-holds- around the court, working performance”, but admitted York 5 barred, throw-yourself- their opponents around, there was “work to be done Sunderland 3 around-the-court bad- before delivering the unre- on singles”. By Matthew Jeynes minton certainly got the turnable shot. Shariff, the stand-out (admittedly small) crowd Sunderland once again singles performer, stated that ACTING SPORTS EDITOR behind him, while also earn- pulled level through consec- while he was happy with his ing him a few bruises from utive singles victories, with own play, he was “annoyed” A FAST-PACED and closely particularly nasty falls. Walker, looking increasingly at his doubles pairs. “We contested encounter Unfortunately, York fatigued, going down again haven’t had a good doubles between York As and captain Rob Walker was and the dynamic Duy defeat- pairing in three years. Plus, Sunderland As ended with unable to capitalise, losing ed by the court control of we are missing our best dou- York clinching the deciding his game by 2 sets to 1, citing Shariff, who rarely strayed bles player, while York have game to start the season with a lack of fitness after winning far from the base. good strength across the a 5-3 win. the first set in dramatic fash- The stage was then set board”, he explained. York 2nd Doubles con- ion 23-21, though it took the for the final doubles show- This strength in depth vincingly overcame The dynamic Duy in action winning his singles match expertise of Sunderland cap- down. However, Sunderland was further highlighted as Sunderland 2nd 21-5 21-8 to tain David Shariff to exploit failed to put up much resist- York cantered to a 6-2 victo- complete a 4-0 whitewash in Kanabar stating that “you may not seem like much, it. ance, with their 2nd doubles ry in the B’s match, also the doubles games that saw can’t go into a match think- they contribute towards a However, York’s superi- team not even reaching dou- against Sunderland, com- York through to the victory. ing anything other than that sense of being in a team, and or doubles play soon saw ble figures in either set, pleting a great day for York Their superior strength in you are going to win”. the organisation that goes them take a 3-1 lead in the handing the match to York. on the badminton courts. depth made up for the lack of On first viewing, the with it. match, as they displayed The Sunderland 1st doubles any stand-out singles per- York team did seem more The match began with excellent teamwork and team put up more of a fight York line-up: formance and ultimately impressive, with their simultaneous singles match- touch play, using their height than they had done in their Doubles: Ricky Kanabar,Will proved the difference. matching 1st team kits. In es on courts 1 and 2 in the advantage to deliver repeat- first game, but were still no Wiseman, Patrick Clarke, Jonty The York team went comparison, the Sunderland main sports hall. York’s Duy ed unreturnable smashes match for York’s pair. Walker Hiley into the fixture full of confid- outfit looked fairly ragged in Hung secured a 21-15 21-18 against their smaller oppo- admitted he was “pleased” Singles: Duy Hung, Rob ance, doubles player Ricky mismatched kits. While kits victory in the opening game nents. Both York teams with the win and attributed Walker NOUSE :THE UNIVERSITY OF YORK STUDENT NEWSPAPER Tueaday October 23 2007 Sports 19 Langwith’s striking problems hand Vanbrugh the win in opening match

COLLEGE FOOTBALL Vanbrugh keeper completely With the Langwith beaten. defence unable to cope with Vanbrugh 1sts 3 Langwith continued to his pace and movement, Langwith 1sts 0 dominate possession, but Regan had several opportuni- still lacked cutting edge in ties to put the game beyond By Matthew Jeynes attack. They resorted to tak- doubt, but was sorely lacking ACTING SPORTS EDITOR ing pot-shots from outside in composure in front of goal, the area, a tactic which failed and regularly blazed his shots to trouble Wilkinson in the over the bar. A BRIGHT but cold Sunday Vanbrugh goal. Langwith did manage to afternoon saw the start of Midway through the hit the crossbar again with a the new college football sea- half, and slightly against the thundering header from a son, with Langwith taking run of play, Vanbrugh corner, but luck did not seem on Vanbrugh down on the 22 snatched the lead when pacy to be on their side. The match acres. striker Oliver Regan was effectively ended as a contest It being the start of the played in down the inside- soon after, when Langwith new season, both sides were left channel by an inch-per- conceded an own-goal from a adjusting to having lost fect through-ball and slid it Vanbrugh corner. The recently graduated players past Langwith keeper Dave Langwith keeper simply and attempting to integrate Lowe. palmed the ball in the air freshers into their teams. Within minutes, before defender Owain Because of this, the majority Vanbrugh had succeeded in Palmer, going for the over- of the game was a scrappy stretching their lead to 2-0 head clearance, succeeded affair with little free-flowing when a poor clearance from only in hitting the underside football. Langwith left-back David of the crossbar and the ball The game began in the Cox was seized upon by rebounded into the goal. same sloppy fashion that Vanbrugh striker Dan The result being assured would continue throughout, Radford. Radford intercept- and neither side in peak with neither side able to ed the ball 25 yards out and physical condition, the game retain the ball for any serious unleashed a powerful shot wound down slowly to its amount of time. There was a into the bottom-left corner conclusion. The referee final- shortage of clear-cut oppor- of the net. ly blew the whistle to hand tunities as neither side Briefly dispirited at the Vanbrugh a comprehensive seemed to have that many score-line, Langwith man- winning start and leave ideas up front. aged to re-compose them- Langwith with a lot of work Langwith perhaps start- selves quickly and dominat- to do – and sorely in need of ed the better side, in that ed the game leading up to striking options. they were the only team who half-time. A difficult header could keep the ball for more from Mikey Cotterill went Team Line-ups: than 10 seconds, but it was narrowly over, before Harry Langwith: GK-Dave Lowe, RB- Vanbrugh who had the open- Prior was slipped through by Charlie Morgan, CB - Tom Foy, ing chance, with a long- midfielder Dan Aked. CB-Dave Coulson, RM-Ash, range free kick striking the However, his shot was CM-Dan Aked, CM-Harry Prior, wall, before the ball was blocked by the on-rushing S-Mikey Cotterill, CF-Matt blazed over the top of the keeper. Pretty. goal from the resulting Langwith should have Vanbrugh: GK-John throw-in. pulled a goal back just before The new season of firsts’ college football began at the weekend with four games Wilkinson, CB-Sam Whittaker, This seemed to wake half-time, but Prior some- Langwith up, and they came how managed to nod a free event. With Vanbrugh con- both of their forwards drop- brilliantly though, soaking CB-Sam Tuck, RWB-James close to taking the lead when header wide from 3 yards tend to defend their lead and ping back, Langwith were up the pressure and hitting Sweetman, LWB-Tom a dipping volley from the out, leaving the score 2-0 at Langwith lacking any cutting limited to taking long shots, Langwith on the counter- Sheldrick, CM-Jack Weavis, edge of the area by Tom half-time. edge up front, the game which failed to trouble the attack numerous times, CM-Johnny Macwilliams, CM- Eskell hit the top of the The second half was seemed to meander along Vanbrugh keeper. using the Regan’s speed to Jack Nicklas, CF-Oliver Regan, crossbar, leaving the perhaps even more of a non- without much action. With Vanbrugh defended great effect. CF-Dan Radford Claims that freshers don’t participate are false

By Criss Noice not their status in the others all included a number participation from first-year ACTING SPORTS EDITOR University. of freshers in their first students, whatever their skill First teams, which com- teams last year. level, is welcomed by the prise largely of second- and On a smaller scale, col- captains. RUMOURS ON campus third-year students, such as lege sport has also suffered The message to first- amongst freshers that first the rowing team, are formed from the ‘no freshers’ stigma, year students being given by year students are less likely in this way because many with claims that the teams all of the sports teams at to be picked for sports teams students are trying the sport are clique-based and com- York is that the level of abili- just because of their age are for the first time. To make up prised purely of groups of ty and competitive experi- entirely unsubstantiated, for this, Boat Club do have a friends, as opposed to all stu- ence is the deciding factor in several teams have told specific fresher’s team to dents who have an interest in selection, not the age of the Nouse this week. cater for those who would playing. applicants. The rumour, which cir- not otherwise get into estab- While in some cases this In fact, freshers may culates in many universities, lished boats. can be true, the majority of even have a better chance of especially institutions heavi- Although there is no the college sports, especially filling vacant sporting posi- ly grounded in sport such as Rowing’s fresher boat is used to get 1st years involved official requirement for first- the slightly more specialist tions as it is likely they have Loughborough and whether this has discour- that in all of the teams - year students to be included ones, such as squash or come straight from playing Brighton, has resurfaced at aged freshers, it is a problem wherever feasible - squad in the first teams, successful Badminton, don't have at school, whereas second- the start of this year during that societies face. hopefuls have been judged York teams such as the rugby enough people turning up to years will have had at least a trials. Although it is unclear However, it is evident purely on their ability and and netball teams as well as every match as it is, so any year of not playing the sport. 20

York’s netball victory: The University of York triumph over York St John’s in a promising opening to the BUSA season. SPORT Full match report >> P18 Wilson brace spares York in tense encounter

RUGBY UNION misfiring and their scrum the breakdown, they could stuck in reverse, the backs’ not get any good ball, and Huddersfield Men 14 most reliable stream of good ferocious tackling from the York Men 22 ball came from the York pack, led by skipper By Alex Corp Huddersfield set-piece, Paul Goodall, quickly which was suffering similar snuffed out any opportuni- SPORTS CORRESPONDENT travails. One such turnover ties that they could create. found York’s James Wilson York managed to YORK’S RUGBY Union at first receiver, and he pro- stretch their lead still further team got their BUSA league duced a piece of individual when replacement wing Seb campaign off to a winning brilliance by taking a deep Hurst was handed an easy start for the first time in pass from the base of a pon- three-pointer when three years after negotiating derous ruck before beating Huddersfield infringed a tricky away encounter in three Huddersfield defend- inside their own 22. Huddersfield. York made the ers to score a try. York’s York survived a late task all the harder for them- advantage was further scare when Huddersfield selves by not capitalising on stretched as Warwick managed to score another their superiority, and were Burrows coolly slotted his converted try, again in con- made to sweat in the closing second conversion of the troversial fashion, but they minutes before securing the game. The centre then very managed to negotiate a win. nearly extended the visitors’ tricky last few minutes with With the narrow pitch lead close to half time, but an ultimately comfortable playing into the hands of was judged to have been eight-point lead. Huddersfield’s sizeable for- held up over the line. Goodall was delighted wards while all but negating Immediately after the with the result: “The build- the benefit of York’s mobile restart Huddersfield some- up to the game wasn’t great, back, the away side spent the how found themselves back and we were playing a big opening minutes defending. in contention, despite hav- physical side, who had beat- Fortunately for York, ing looked toothless in en us heavily last season, on Huddersfield’s lack of ambi- attack for the first 40 min- a very small pitch. To come tion in their back’s play ren- utes. York number eight Ally away from the match with a dered the ask easier, if bruis- Handy secured the kick off win says a lot about us as a ing. Despite the perfect play- cleanly, but the Huddersfield team.” ing conditions, the ball hooker managed to collect And with the 2nd XV’s rarely ventured beyond 9/10 the ball from a suspiciously 43-6 mauling of Sheffield channel, and committed offside position before his Hallam, there are some gang tackles ensured bullocking run took him promising signs for the sea- Huddersfield never looked through the tacklers and son to come: “I’m really like encroaching on York’s crashing over the white- pleased that we’ve got the tryline. wash. strength in depth to put out Once York’s backs had York gathered them- two very good sides at the found their range and run- selves and responded imme- moment, and that was ning lines on the diminutive diately, determined not to reflected in two excellent playing surface - shorter and lose a game they had been wins today.” narrower than a standard dominating. Fly-half Tom field at just 80m by 50m by Benbow sped around the York team lineup: 20m – they began to look outside of the flat-footed 1.Hugh Wigzell, 2.Alex Corp, dangerous. Their break- Huddersfield defence before 3.James Stone, 4.Mike Callis, through came midway flipping a speculative pass 5.Jon Kume-Davy, 6.Jack through the first half when inside to Wilson just five Wakeling, 7.Paul Goodall (c), York’s rapid recycling at the metres out. The full-back 8.Ally Handy breakdown took its toll on gathered it in and scrambled 9.Sam Dudley, 10.Tom the defence. Slick hands in over in the corner for his sec- Benbow, 11.Nick Mason, the midfield meant the ball ond try. 12.Warwick Burrows, 13.Nick reached Nick Mason before After this setback, Brown, 14.Lionel Owusu, the tiring cover, and the Huddersfield never looked winger sped over in the cor- like getting back into the 15.James Wilson ner for his first try of the sea- game. With York locks Mike 16.Luke Brazier, 17.Chris son. Callis and Jon Kume-Davy Carrington, 18.Fraser But with York’s lineout disrupting their lineout and Monaghan, 19.Seb Hurst. York made an encouraging start to the new season with a win over Huddersfield

Vanbrugh trounces Langwith in York Netball team begins new York Badminton doubles win over first college football >> P19 BUSA season with style >> P18 Sunderland convincingly >> P18

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