CLASS issue 6

INSIDE:BEAUTY QUEENS THE BELFAST METROPOLITAN COLLEGE NEWSPAPER

ISSUE 6 OCTOBER 2009

Gossip Girl The must-see TV show for every student

DRUGS

Special report: The dangers you face P6

FASHION The lowdown on all our autumn faves P16

HALLOWEEN Make your own special lantern with our guide P22

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CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

CONTENTS 4 NEWS 6 SPECIAL REPORT ON

THE DANGERS OF DRUGS 9 REAL LIFE 10 COVER STORY GOSSIP GIRL 12 BEAUTY 16 FASHION 20 ENTERTAINMENT 22 HALLOWEEN 24 UNITE AGAINST HATE 25 FOOD & DRINK 27 DRIVING 28 JOBS & SKILLS 30 HEALTH 31 SPORT

INSIDE

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Copy is correct at time of going to press but subject to change.

BELFAST METROPOLITAN COLLEGE | www.belfastmet.ac.uk | 028 9026 5000 CONTENT by FAME Inc | www.fameinc.co.uk | 028 9020 1405 news@fameinc.co.uk | 145a Ormeau Road | Belfast | BT71SL EDITOR IN CHIEF TINA CALDER CREATIVE DIRECTOR FABRIZIO BELLUSCHI EDITOR ANDREA CLARKE REPORTERS CATHY BLACK, RICHARD JONES PHOTOGRAPHY FABRIZIO BELLUSCHI RYAN KENNEDY, DONAL DOHERTY ADVERTISING DIRECTOR STEVE PETRIE ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE RICHARD JONES DESIGN by GORDON SMITH | COMPLETE NEWSPAPER SOLUTIONS PRINT LIAISON EUGENE MURRAY | GENIE MURRAY GRAPHICS PRINTED by Johnston Press Ltd Please send all editorial to: news@ fameinc.co.uk 028 9020 1405

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4 NEWS

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

CHEFS RISE TO SUCCESS A TEAM of six catering students from Belfast Metropolitan College have been named runners-up in the Nestlé Toque d’Or competition at a gala awards ceremony in London.

Jamie Hagan, Andrew Proven, Anthony Murray, Ciara McGhee, Amy Macartney, and John Paul Branney competed against four of the top catering colleges in the UK and narrowly missed out on the title.

The students, all aged between 16 and 19 years old, were the first team from Northern Ireland to reach the Toque d’Or Grand Finals in the prestigious competition’s 21 year history.

The students follow in the footsteps of celebrity chefs Jamie Oliver and James Martin who competed in the Toque d’Or when they were at their respective catering colleges.

Jamie Hagan, Restaurant Manager described the experience as an amazing opportunity.

He said: “In the finals it was great to pull all our hard work to-

gether and show the judges how passionate we are about our restaurant concept.

“We worked so hard as team and I am proud of everything that we achieved, it has been the most incredible experience.”

The Nestlé Toque d’Or Grand

Finals took place at Birmingham’s NEC in June at the BBC Good Food Show Summer but the result was kept secret until an awards lunch which was held at the indigO2 in London.

The five finalist teams took turns to prepare and serve a three course

lunch to 100 paying diners at their unique ‘place to eat’ under the watchful eyes of the professional judging panel which included celebrity chef James Tanner.

Congratulating the students on their achievements in the competition Trevor Smyth, BMC Deputy

Director Curriculum Programmes said: “Belfast Metropolitan College has a proud and recognised history of training for the Hospitality and Catering industry, reaching the finals of this prestigious competition is an outstanding reflection on the capabilities of our students and the skills and expertise of our staff.

“I have no doubt they have a long and successful career ahead of them and Belfast Met is truly proud of their achievement.”

The Belfast Met team showcased their restaurant concept Fat of the Land, serving a three-course menu of watercress and chicken soup with a soda bread crisp; herb-crumbed Fermanagh lamb with minted pea puree, cabbage and bacon, champ potato cake and lamb gravy; and Bushmills whiskey and wild honey infused vanilla ice-cream with a warm chocolate mousse and rhubarb compote.

The budding chefs used only the best local ingredients, thoughtfully sourced and delicately prepared

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

NEWS

TWO staff members at Belfast Metropolitan College have taken part in unique races, raising hundreds of pounds for their chosen charities.

BMC Enterprise Officer Nuala Kilmartin donned a wedding dress to participate in the first ever Runaway Bride event in Dublin’s Phoenix Park, raising £500.

The fun run was organised to raise much-needed funds for St. Patrick’s Hospital’s Mental Health Matters programme.

Kathryn Cochrane, from the College’s Centre for Marketing, travelled to Newcastle Upon Tyne to run alongside 54,000 people and complete The Great North Run. To date Kathryn has raised over £700 for TinyLife, Northern Ireland’s premature baby charity.

Kathryn said: “I was at a TinyLife fundraising event organised by my colleagues in the Marketing Team and was really moved by TinyLife’s

commitment to supporting parents of premature, sick and vulnerable babies.

“Some of the premature babies born in Northern Ireland are as small as a £20 note and their families receive practical and emotional support from TinyLife.

“I am overwhelmed by the generosity and the support I have received and would like to thank the staff at Belfast Metropolitan College who supported the Great North Bun

coffee morning and donated over £180.”

Anyone wishing to support Kathryn’s Great Run can donate online at www.justgiving. com/kathryn-cochrane.

If you are interested in becoming a Runaway Bride at next year’s event contact Nuala on nkilmartin@belfastmet.ac.uk for more information. To support Nuala the runaway bride, visit www.mycharity.ie/event/nuala_kilmartins_event/.

NEWS IN BRIEF

BELFAST MET staff race for charity

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MET STUDENTS NOT GIVING GIFT OF LIFE THE majority of Belfast Met students may not be on the Organ Donor Register, according to a CLASS survey.

The poll of BMC students found that only 30 per cent were on the register.

Most of those not on the register cited laziness, apathy and concern about who the organs were given to as their reasons for not having registered.

Around 8000 people in the UK need transplants every year and one thousand people die waiting. Northern Ireland has the highest refusal rate in the UK, with around 43 per cent of patients’ families refusing to donate their organs.

Last month the UK Organ Donation Taskforce rejected the idea that everyone should be placed on the Organ Donor Register unless they opt out.

The taskforce said they have found little evidence to suggest that changing the law would increase availability of organs.

Chairperson Elizabeth Buggins said: “We found from recipient families and donor families that the concept of gift was very important to them”.

However, Prime Minister Gordon Brown has not ruled out the notion of “presumed consent” in future, if measures proposed by the taskforce - such as a £4.5m public awareness campaign, do not work.

BELFAST MET CLUBS & SOCIETIES

Sweet Success PAUL Dillon has been named BMC Apprenticeships NI Student of the Year for his work on the NVQ Level 2 Professional Cookery programme at Belfast Metropolitan College.

In addition to completing his NVQ Level 2 Professional Cookery, Paul improved his numeracy skills and underwent training at Sugarcane Coffee Company’s Holywood Exchange premises.

Sugarcane employs over 25

staff across its two outlets and works in conjunction with BMC to offer training and support to staff, who wish to expand their existing skills and work towards NVQ qualifications.

Sugarcane proprietor Emma McCleery said: “We are delighted that Paul has received this Student of the Year award.

“He is a valuable member of our team, his confidence has increased dramatically in the last

year and as a result he has been given more and more responsibility in the day to day running of Sugarcane.

“He has mastered the recipe of our signature scones and has introduced to our menu some of the recipes he has learnt at College.”

It is the first year that Sugarcane has used the Apprenticeship NI scheme. Husband and wife team Peter and Emma McCleery opened their first outlet in Comb-

er in 2005 and together with business partner Phil Gourley opened their second outlet in 2008 at Holywood Exchange.

Paul credits his Belfast Met tutors for giving him the confidence to take on the challenges of the kitchen and helping him discover his culinary talents.

He intends to study for the NVQ Level 3 in Professional Cookery whilst continuing to work at Sugarcane Coffee Company

Want to set up a Film Club?

What about a Music Club?

Or even a Christian Union Society?

Whatever it is you are interested in let your Student Union help you set up a club or society...

We will help you with posters, funding for events and locations for all meetings.

If you have any ideas or would like to set up your own club or society please contact: Sara Sands, Student Union, Millfield, Building 2, Level 0, Room 2, SSands@belfastmet.ac.uk or call 028 9026 5238.

6 SPECIAL REPORT

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

THE TRUTH ABOUT DRUGS

BY CATHY BLACK CATHY@FAMEINC.CO.UK WHEN news broke that former Atomic Kitten star Kerry Katona’s nose has begun to dissolve due to prolonged drug abuse people squirmed in horror.

Not at the news that her cartilage had caved, but at the grotesque detail her step-sister went into describing how it happened.

Horrified at the state the mum-offour has got herself into, Pat Ferrier wanted the world to know the ugly effect drugs have on people and decided to talk about the moment she saw Kerry pulling out a bit of her septum with a pair of tweezers.

She told the News of the World: “Kerry was in the bathroom for ages. I’d seen her take the tweezers in and I said, “’What you doing?”

She said, “I’ll be out in a minute.

‘Then in her hand she’s got this thing that she dragged out of this hole in her nose. It looked like when you get the fat off bacon.

I’ve got a strong stomach but that was almost too much.

‘She told me that rotting black stuff builds up inside and she has to dig it out every few weeks.

It was disgusting, but it doesn’t stop her taking drugs.”

In response to the reactions the story got, CLASS has decided to take an honest look at the

impact drugs have on bodies, how they make you feel and why. Some of the information below may come as a shock: Tobacco What is it? Tobacco is processed from the leaves of Nicontiana plants. It can be consumed by people or used as an organic pesticide. It usually is consumed in the forms of smoking, chewing or snuffing.

Why is it used?: Tobacco is often praised by smokers for helping them relax and taking the edge of the day’s stresses, when in

Micky Modelle Anti-Drugs Mural CLUBLAND DJ Micky Modelle threw his weight behind an East Belfast anti-drugs campaign over the summer months to deter teenagers from picking up the habit.

Micky, who grew up in East Belfast, teamed up with First Minister Peter Robinson, former Miss Great Britain Gemma Garrett and Citybeat’s Robin Elliott to unveil an anti-drugs mural in Tullycarnet.

Designed by a group of 10 local teenagers who took part in a workshop organised by FASA (Forum for Action on Substance Abuse), the mural brandishes the slogan ‘make drugs history, cleaner communities now’.

The Dancing in the Dark star said he was “behind the message 100 per cent” and hopes it will make people realise they don’t have to take drugs to fit in.

He added: “I have been in the music business for 20 years and I’ve never got involved in drugs, and I am hoping that by showing my support people will see that I have come from Belfast and made a career in music through hard work and nothing else.

“Teenagers getting involved in a campaign like this is a great way to get the message across, especially to young people who more often than not get involved with drugs and alcohol because there is nothing else for them to do.”

The mural, also supported by Castlereagh Borough Council, Tullycarnet healthy neighbourhood project and Conflict Transformation Initiative is displayed on Kings Road, a main route for traffic in and out of Belfast.

fact the cocktail of carbon monoxide and nicotine in cigarettes reduces the amount and supply of oxygen to your brain, causing thoughts to process slower.

What are the risks?: Scientists have proved that tobacco use provokes disease in the heart and lungs, meaning smokers are more likely to suffer heart attacks, strokes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, and cancer (particularly lung cancer, cancers of the larynx and mouth, and pancreatic cancer).

Still not convinced?: Smoking tobacco is highly addictive and very expensive, costing a person an average of £35 a week. The smell clings to clothes and hair and the nicotine yellows teeth and skin - many smokers will admit to bleaching their hands to get the stains off. It can also lead to impotency in men.

Alcohol What is it? Alcohol is the general name given to the chemical ethanol when it is used in drinks. Ethanol is a colorless liquid which is obtained by the fermentation of sugars.

Alcohol is the most widely used depressant in the world and is found in a whole range of drinks.

Spirits usually contain a higher level of alcohol to wine or lager, and alcopops usually contain more alcohol by volume than beer or cider.

Why is it used? Alcohol is known to exaggerate the mood a person is in whenever they begin drinking, so it is often used by people during times of celebration. Because it is a relaxant, people also use it to reduce feelings of anxiety and as social lubricant.

What are the risks?

Long-term excessive use of alcohol causes illnesses such as liver damage, stomach cancer and heart disease. People can become dependent on the effects of alcohol overtime, and if not carefully monitored people can find themselves ill with alcohol poisoning, which can be fatal.

Still not convinced? Alcohol can

make you mouthy, argumentative and aggressive. There’s no way of knowing if you’re going to turn into a nasty drunk. Over-use slows the liver, giving heavy drinkers yellow-toned or grey skin, and permanent red blotches known as rosacea over cheeks and nose.

Cannabis What is it? Cannabis, commonly known as marijuana, grass, hash, weed and blow, is a Class B drug made from the leaves of pistillate plants. It can come in a herbal or resinous form and can be used in a number of ways. Most commonly it is smoked, vaporised or eaten.

SPECIAL REPORT

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

ers claim it makes lights brighter and music more powerful. It leads to powerful hallucinations and sometimes out of body experiences, known as a K-hole.

to keep weight down.

What are the risks? Snorting cocaine can rot away the cartilage in people’s noses, it can trigger mental health conditions from mild depression to schizophrenia, and overdoses can be fatal. Because it suppresses appetite it can lead to malnutrition and heart problems.

Still not convinced The hit doesn’t last very long (around 2030 minutes) and this encourages repeated doses, which becomes an expensive habit. Smoking cocaine gives a stronger hit, but effects can wear off in as little as 10 minutes.

And while you may feel on top of the world on coke, most people will see you as loud and arrogant.

Ketamin What is it? A Class C drug, Ketamine is a short-acting general anaesthetic that has hallucinogenic and painkilling qualities that affect people in very different ways. It usually comes in a powder form but also comes in liquid and tablets.

Why is it used? Users describe a speedy rush after a minutes of snorting, 20 minutes if taken in pill form, and quicker if injected. It makes the heart speed up and us-

What are the risks?

Because it is a fairly new drug, no one knows what the long-term effects of taking ketamine are yet.

Short-term risks however can be very serious.

Users have been known to hurt themselves and not realise until the following day because of the drug’s anaesthetic qualities.

A BBC report in May 2000 claimed that medical research had shown that controlled tests on ketamine users had revealed impaired memory and mild schizophrenia several days after taking the drug.

Ketamine is much stronger than coke and some people feel paralysed by the drug, unable to speak without slurring, while others either feel sick or throw up.

Still not convinced? Accept that you may be in for a rough ride with the drug as its effects are unpredictable and sometimes very confusing.

Try not to mix it with other drugs, particularly alcohol. There have been media reports of ketamine being used as a ‘date rape’ drug.

Make sure you take it with at least one ‘straight’ friend around.

Ecstasy What is it? A Class B drug, Ecstasy is a powerful stimulant and

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mood changer that speeds up your body’s system and alters people’s perception of the world. It is most commonly found in pill form but occasionally comes in powder form.

Why is it used? It can make users feel both uplifted and relaxed, feeling very happy, usually with an overwhelming urge to dance.

For that reason it is often found in nightclubs and parties.

What are the risks? Most of the dangers come from people overheating and not replacing enough fluids while dancing, so it is essential to keep drinking water. But users also risk drinking too much - about a pint an hour is right if you’re on the dance-floor, otherwise people can drown themselves.

Because E is a stimulant, the comedown is hard and users feel depressed and laxative effects are not uncommon. Long-term users often get run-down from exhaustion and suffer colds, sore throats and flu. Women can be susceptible to cystitis and thrush.

Still not convinced? People who have taken E often find their mouths drying up, and can be spotted by their relentless mouth chewing. Taking the drug will have people dancing to the worst songs in the world, and users will find themselves attracted to the most unsavoury people in the room. Users are also likely to wake up and see the most embarrassing and unflattering pictures of themselves on Facebook.

PVD Without the E Why is it used? Cannabis can be used for treating and preventing nausea and vomiting, stimulating hunger during chemotherapy as well as a general analgesic painkiller. Studies have also shown it can help with suffers of multiple sclerosis and depression. People who consume it also report feeling ‘high’, and euphoric.

What are the risks?: Most of the health risks associated with cannabis are those linked with the tobacco it’s usually smoked with, and while it is said to be non-addictive, many users find themselves developing a habit they find hard to break. Thought and movement is also impaired and can lead to paranoia.

Still not convinced?: Cannabis can also lead to pointless giggling and loss of inhibitions. One of the most common side-effect is “the

munchies”, where people feel hungry and eat uncontrollably, typically leading to weight gain. Users often find small burn holes in their clothes and furniture where “hot rocks” have fallen from their spliff.

Cocaine What is it?: Cocaine is Class A drug obtained from the leaves of the coca plant. It is a known to be a stimulant of the central nervous system and is usually snorted but can be smoked or injected. Crackcocaine is a mix of cocaine, baking soda and water, which is smoked through a water pipe.

Why is it used?: Cocaine delivers a quick and euphoric high, and users claim the drug makes them feel like a superstar. People feel thier confidence go through the roof when they use it, and because it suppresses appetite it is used

KING of the electronic dance scene Paul Van Dyke slammed the use of drugs in a visit to Belfast last month.

The trance star supremo, who was playing his annual residency at Planetlove, exclusively revealed to CLASS he wouldn’t have been able to keep up with his career if he had been using drugs, and believes his music has more impact on a clear head.

Paul, who is recording his sixth studio album, added: “I am known to be anti-drugs, but I wouldn’t say it is more important to me than some of the other DJs out there.

When I had a residency in Gatecrashers about ten years ago it was famous for people being high on pills.

“I said in an interview that if I had been taking drugs I wouldn’t have been able to do my schedule, like six hour sets. And some of the stuff I have seen put me off anyway.

“Then at my next show,

some of these kids, they did it completely by themselves, made t-shirts that said PVD No Pills, or PVD Without the E. I know my music can be enjoyed without drugs, and the kids realised that too and started making their own shirts.”

But while Paul has his own personal views on substance abuse, he knows he is not going to bring down the drugs industry by himself and believes schools and the gov-

ernment should be doing much more to educate people on what they are putting into their bodies.

“I know people are going to do what they want to do anyway,” said Paul, “But they should be careful because it is very dangerous. I think there should be much more information to people on what they should do when they are on drugs so they can take care of themselves when they are high.”

8 SPECIAL REPORT

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

PSNI urges students to be SMART

BY ANDREA CLARKE ANDREA@FAMEINC.CO.UK THE PSNI have launched a new campaign warning students and young people of the dangers of alcohol and drug rape.

This latest drive is urging people to be more aware when they are on a night out.

The PSNI message states alcohol and drugs can make you feel more confident and alcohol is the preferred date rape drug – it can distort your perceptions and judgement and makes you more vulnerable.

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

The police offer simple precautions to keep you safe. ¦Make a pact with your friends at the beginning of the evening to keep each other safe.

¦Always leave your drink with someone you trust, don’t share drinks and never accept a drink from someone that you don’t know or have just met. ¦Don’t get so drunk that you don’t know what you’re doing. ¦Plan how you’re going to get home. Don’t walk home alone or go back with someone you have just met – stay with friends or use a taxi. ¦Would you go alone into a stranger’s house at 11am in the morning? No? So why do it at 2am drunk? Arrange to meet new acquaintances when sober. ¦Always make sure that someone knows where you are and when you’re expected back. ¦Keep your bag zipped and held close to you. ¦Don’t wear headphones late

at night – they may stop you being able to hear people around you.

According to police statistics, alcohol is the most commonly used date rape drug and two thirds of sexual offences occur within somebody’s house.

As part of the campaign, the PSNI are reiterating the issue of consent. Rape means sex without consent – if you didn’t get consent before sex that makes you a rapist.

Consent has to be explicit.

It’s not enough to think ‘they haven’t said no so I’ll carry on anyway’. If the person you’re with is incapable of making that decision because they are drunk or drugged, then it still makes you a rapist.

Whatever your gender or sexuality, if you’re gearing up for a night out, you need to look after yourself – personal safety starts with you.

IF you have experience of sexual violence and would like to talk to someone confidentially you can speak to various people within Belfast Met. However, if you don’t feel comfortable speaking to someone in the college you can contact the Rape Crisis & Sexual Abuse Centre (NI).

The Rape Crisis Centre is a fully confidential and FREE service and offers a wide range of services as well as counselling.

For more information log onto www.rapecrisisni.com or call 028 9032 9001 or 028 9032 9002.

RAPE CRISIS & SEXUAL ABUSE CENTRE Where Survivors Come First IF YOU NEED FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL ADVICE, SUPPORT AND/OR COUNSELLING CONTACT US TODAY The Rape Crisis Centre provides counselling and support for all survivors female and male of rape, sexual abuse and sexual violence

29 DONEGALL STREET BELFAST BT1 2FG 028 9032 9001 028 9032 9002 www.rapecrisisni.com

REAL LIFE

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

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BELFAST STUDENT TELLS OF HER BABY SCAR TRAUMA

BY ANDREA CLARKE THE birth of their second daughter, Lorna, should have been the happiest day of Catherine and Michael Gaffney’s lives but instead it was filled with trauma.

As doctors performed an emergency caesarian section on Catherine they cut baby Lorna’s face, leaving her scarred for life.

The newborn’s cheek was sliced as the surgeon operated on the mother-of-two.

Now 18, Belfast Met student Lorna hasn’t let the trauma of her birth affect her and here she tells Class her story.

“When I was able to understand my mum and dad told me what happened to me when I was born and why I have the scar.

My mum had to have an emer-

gency caesarian after nine hours in labour and when my dad came into see me there was blood pouring out of my face.

The nurses left my dad for a half an hour before they told him what happened.

The paediatrician said it was a superficial cut and would heal with no scar within six months but it didn’t.

They gave us no explanation as to why I was left with the scar.

It used to really annoy me especially when I was younger I was really self-conscious about it.

When I was in primary school people always asked me what it was and what happened to me.

Then when I’d explain they were really shocked.

It made me really paranoid.

No one made fun of me for it but

I think they were freaked out.

I used to dread getting pictures taken in school because sometimes it was really noticeable.

You can really see it when it’s sunny and I hated looking at my holiday photos.

But when I got older I just stopped caring.

By that stage I was used to it being there and to be honest I forget that I even have a scar.

My mum used to say to me, ‘Now you can never be a model’ but I wouldn’t want to be a size zero model anyway.

I’m not superficial and I think that’s because of my scar.

I have so much more confidence now than I used to and it doesn’t bother me when I have to explain why my check is scarred.

The scar is not me, there is more to me.

I’m studying Beauty Therapy Level 2, I love make-up and I’m really creative. Hopefully by being a beauty therapist I can help people feel good about themselves even if they have scars.

I don’t want to dwell on what’s happened to me, I have dealt with it, it’s just a another of my life”.

PICTURES BY RYAN KENNEDY

10 COVER FEATURE NEWS IN BRIEF

DREAMING OF AN END TO BULLYING TWO thirds of Belfast Met students have either been bullied or know someone who has, a CLASS survey found.

In a poll of the Millfield campus, CLASS found that 60 per cent of students were victims or knew those who had been targeted with violence or verbal abuse during their time at school or college.

These results come as four Year 10 girls from St Louis Grammar School in Ballymena won the chance to design a new technicolour dream coat for the hit West End musical Joseph, as part of a campaign to highlight bullying.

The pupils jetted to London where their design was worn by Any Dream Will Do winner Lee Mead, who is currently starring in the show.

The girls’ design won more than 15,000 votes on the teenage website, My Bliss. The designs were brought to life

by London College of Fashion students and are being auctioned on eBay by the charity Beatbullying, who ran the competition in conjunction with Vodafone.

St. Louis Art teacher Fiona McCauley said the idea for the design came from brainstorming sessions where the pupils talked about issues such as sectarianism, racism and cultural diversity.

She said: “The coat has footprints representing all walks of life.

“The images of the computer and mobile phone suggest cyberbullying, and the swirl of the two flags represents different communities here.

“They blew me away with the thought that went into the design - there’s an awful lot wrapped up in one little package.”

According to Beatbullying, bullying results in 15-25 suicides a year.

Lee Mead was bullied as a child and is a passionate supporter of anti-bullying campaigns.

He said: “Having experienced verbal and physical bullying in the past myself, I wanted to help raise the profile and encourage people to speak out against bullies”.

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

GOSSIP GIRLS

BY CATHY BLACK CATHY@FAMEINC.CO.UK A NEW academic year means a new start for students, right?

Not for Manhattan’s Upper East Siders, where gossip rules and affluent prep-school students find themselves with the money, access and appetite to explore all the temptations New York City has to offer.

Based on the best-selling series of young-adult novels by Cecily von Ziegesar, this ITV2 drama is told through the eyes of an all-knowing anonymous blogger going by the alias Gossip Girl, who is determined to uncover and fuel every scandal worth knowing through the power of her avidly read text messages.

Her main topics of interest include the intense and turbulent friendship between social butterfly Serena and straight A student Blair, who find themselves in a constant battle to be the school’s queen bee.

Gossip Girl also keeps tabs on bad boy Chuck, his best friend Nate and “lonely boy” Dan, who finds himself in a new world filled with questionable morals and loyalties.

Keeping track of the shifting friendships, jealousies and turmoil in this wealthy and complex world isn’t easy, and that’s why Class is giving away 3 copies of Season 2 on DVD- so students can have a refresher before Season 3 starts on October 17, on ITV2.

Who are they?

Hilary Duff (Lizzy Maguire, Cheaper by the Dozen) and Joanna Garcia (Privileged, Not Another Teen Movie), will be guest starring in the much-anticipated new series, but who are the stars of Gossip Girl in real life?

Blake Lively as Serena van der Woodsen No stranger to scandal, gorgeous Blake, 22, is currently locking lips with her Gossip Girl co-star, Penn Badgley, who happens to play her character’s on-again/off-again boyfriend Dan Humphrey.

Coming from a family of Californian actors (her sister Robin starred in 80s sitcom Teen Witch and her brother Jason played Rusty in National Lampoon’s European Vacation) Blake made her big screen debut in 2005’s The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants, starring opposite Ugly Betty’s America Ferrera, The role earned her a Teen Choice Award for Choice Movie Breakout Performance- Female.

Blake is currently filming with Ben Affleck on a new movie The Town, and Affleck fans may be dismayed to hear things were getting

hot and heavy during filming according to reports.

Leighton Meester as Blair Waldorf While preppy Blair is known for her immaculate upbringing and polished looks, 23-year old Leighton came into the world with a bump, when she was born in prison to a mother who was doing time for drug charges.

But life quickly turned around for the pretty brunette, who made her television debut on Law & Order when she was just 13-years old. In 2004 she was offered a recurring role in Entourage as singer Justin Chapin, a Britney Spears type character, and after that she made numerous appearances in familiar TV shows such as 8 Simple Rules…for Dating My Teenage Daughter, Numb3rs, CSI: Miami, House and Veronica Mars.

Rumours of a sex-tape recently did the rounds on the internet, but Leighton denies their authenticity and claims: “It is not real, so

it makes me sort of sad. It’s unfortunate that it got carried as far as it did.”

But Leighton certainly doesn’t shy her love-life away from public viewing, in fact last month she announced her engagement to actor boyfriend Sebastian Stan, who-yep you guessed it, stars in Gossip Girl as Carter Baizen.

And not one to be content with being in a hit TV show, determined Miss Meester has also recorded a single with American band Cobra Starship, Good Girls Go Bad, and is set to release her own album in 2010.

Taylor Momsen as Jenny Humphrey: Looking at recent pictures of Momsen you would be forgiven for confusing the 15-year old for grunge princess Courtney Love.

But if you hark back to the 2000 hit film How The Grinch Stole Christmas, you will remember Taylor as Cindy Lou, the sweet-faced

little girl who starred opposite Jim Carrey.

After starring in a host of children’s films, including Spy Kids 2: The Island of Lost Dreams, Momsen got her big break when she was cast as Jenny Humphrey at the age of 14.

But the young star has whipped up a storm of late after stepping out in a range of revealing outfits, and has recently quashed a number of anorexia rumours.

Taylor said: “I’m just kind of naturally thin. My mom’s really thin, and I’m tall. Good genes. I just eat healthy. I walk a lot because I live in New York. So I try to walk a lot instead of taking cabs.”

The busy teenager has also just discovered that her band, Pretty Reckless, has been signed to Interscope Records and have announced they will be touring with The Veronicas at the beginning of next year.

Ed Westwick as Chuck Bass Who would believe the man behind New York’s suavist teenager was in fact British?

Or that he made his acting debut as a bit-part on BBC’s Casualty?

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

COVER FEATURE

11

BACK IN TOWN

Ed Westwick, 22, trained at the National Youth Theatre in London before scoring the role of Chuck Bass but almost had to drop the part because his visa didn’t clear in time for filming. Luckily for the lady viewers the production team at Gossip Girl knew Ed was the one and waited a few weeks until all the paperwork cleared.

English Literature students should be pleased to hear that he Ed has been cast for the role of Heathcliff, alongside Gemma Arterton as Cathy, in a new film adaptation of Wuthering Heights, which is due out next year.

Ed, who is currently dating Gossip Girl co-star Jessica Szohr (who plays Vanessa), also fronts his own rock band The Filthy Youth, who are based in England.

Chace Crawford as Nate Archibald It seems like everyone wants a piece of baby-faced Chace. Linsday Lohan reportedly approached him when she was still going out with Samantha Ronson, American singer Carrie

Underwood admitted dating him, and now Ashley Greene of Twilight fame is said to be hanging on his every word.

But life wasn’t always so sweet for the 24-year old actor, who was voted 2009’s Hottest Bachelor by People magazine. Instead of pursuing an acting career, his mother, a teacher, tried pushing him into a career in journalism.

But in 2006 Chace got his big break starring in The Covenant, a thriller which opened at number one in the US box office.

Last year Crawford signed on to play a drug dealer in the upcoming film Twelve, based on Nick McDonell’s bestselling novel of the same name. And Chace is getting ready to play Ren McCormack in a remake of Footloose, both films are due out in summer 2010.

Penn Badgley as Dan Humphrey The first job Penn Badgley took was doing voice work for the video

game Mario Golf 64, when he was just 12 years old, and a year later he moved on to Mario Tennis 64. But his first screen debut came as a small part on the US show Will and Grace, After being offered the role of Dan Humphrey on Gossip Girl, future girlfriend Blake Lively said she was disappointed when she found out she would be working with him, because they used to go to school together and she thought he was “too quiet and kind of snobby.”

Outside Gossip Girl, the 22year old has just announced he will be working on a film re-make of the 1987 American thriller The Stepfather. And in true Gossip Girl cast form, he “sees a future career in music”, but won’t be pursuing that right now.

COMPETITION CLASS have three Gossip Girl: The Complete Season 2 Boxsets to give away.

Simply answer this question: What is the name of Cobra Starship song featuring Leighton Meester?

A Snakes on a Plane (Bring It) B Good Girls Go Bad C Hot Mess Send your answer, name, address, contact telephone number to competitions@fameinc.co.uk.

Competition closes Monday November 2 at 4pm.

12 BEAUTY NEWS

Nesbitt, singer Sharon Corr, Miss Northern Ireland Cherie Gardiner and Snow Patrol’s Gary Lightbody.

For further information on show schedules, tickets, links to participant retailers and designers as well as the season’s hottest trends, log on to www.belfastfashionweek.com. For show tickets, call the Welcome Centre Box Office on 028 9024 6609 CLASS has teamed up with West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK and is giving away five pairs of tickets to the event.

To win simply answer this question How long has Belfast FASHIONWEEK been running?

A

5 years

B

2 years

C

10 years

Send your answer, name and contact telephone number to competitions@ fameinc.co.uk.

Competition closing date is Monday October 26 at 4pm.

EVERYONE knows a good skincare regime is an investment, but I will be the first to admit I’m a little slack when it comes to cleansing, toning and moisturising twice a day.

Having suffered a constant battle with spots throughout my teens, I still get mild breakouts now I am in my early twenties, mainly around the chin area. Feeling self-conscious and slightly desperate I have tried all kinds of pills and creams from the doctor, most of which have done nothing but burn my skin.

But the thing that keeps me splashing out on the latest non-prescription creams is the worry that in a few years time I will have to fight spots and wrinkles at the same time.

So you can imagine my delight when I was invited to try EsteeLauder’s skin profiling system at House of Fraser, where I was promised my skin type could be properly identified and I would be advised on how to fix my problems.

Upon arriving I was greeted by a lovely lady, who had a brief chat with me about the kind of problems I was having. Then, in a very Ten Years Younger fashion, she took a few upclose snapshots of my skin to show it in three different lights; visible (to analyse visible surface spots), polarised (to show up any clogging and impurities) and UV (which looks beneath the skins surface for concerns not yet visible to the naked eye).

After the pictures were analysed I was told I have combination skin, which is oily around the nose and dry everywhere else. But instead of focusing on the bad points, I was shown all the good factors about my skin, explaining that the levels of sun-damage and lines on my face are lower than the average person in my age group.

Overall the diagnostic system reads 11 key skin measurements including sebum (oil) production, lines and wrinkles, visible spots, skin radiance and pores.

Using the evidence identified by the skin device, I was told which products I should use, including an Advanced Night Repair serum that

CLASS LOVES… ALL of us in the CLASS offices love the new Barry M Lip Gloss Wands.

Combining the exciting colour choices you have come to love, with fun and flirty flavours, the new glosses are a must have for every girl’s handbag and with an RRP of £4.25 there is no need to splurge.

The line up includes Coconut Clear, Toffee, Strawberries and Cream, Pastel Pink, Bubblegum Pink, Tropical Tango, Sugar Pink Glitter, Cherry Glitter and Strawberry Glitter.

CLASS fashion and beauty writer Cathy

Black loves the Bubblegum Pink gloss. She says: “This delicious tasting lip gloss is the perfect mix of fun and style, it glides on and stays on, while the retro hit of bubblegum

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

EstÉe - Lauder Skin Diagnosis

Belfast FASHION WEEK giveaway

WEST Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK is moving to the newly refurbished Belfast City Hall.

The multi-award-winning fashion event is celebrating its fifth year and is part of Belfast City Council’s packed programme of activities, celebrating the reopening of the iconic building.

Kicking off FASHIONWEEK this year is a spectacular Fashion Through the Decades showcase on 29 October. This will be followed by nightly catwalk shows, master classes, exciting exhibitions and the coolest, freshest fashion both on and off the catwalk, making the popular event bigger and better again this season.

As usual, there will be showcases from the very best of the high street as well as the hottest local designers and chic boutiques.

In addition to the shows, fashion photographer Khara Pringle will also showcase her Uniform of Fashion photography exhibition which includes beautiful and iconic images of TV personalities such as Zoe Salmon, actor James

With CATHY BLACK

leaves you reminiscing about your carefree childhood.”

The Toffee flavoured gloss is decadent and yummy, according to CLASS fashion editor Andrea Clarke.

She says: “This beige gloss is perfect for an understated look and with it’s caramel undertones, your lips will not only look good but they’ll taste good too.”

Packaged in sleek and chic new packaging, with applicator brush for putting on with precision, this brand new line of nine shades is the latest addition to Barry M Cosmetics’ hugely popular make up range, Barry M Cosmetics new Lip Gloss Wands are £4.25 each, available online at www.barrym. com and in Superdrug and Boots.

should help rid my face of any clogged pores, repair damage and slow oil production.

Even though I could have guessed my skin was combination before going to the appointment, having a skin expert thoroughly examine the condition of my face made it totally worthwhile. No doctor I have ever been to has taken the time to do this, so that probably explains why I have been prescribed so many products that just seemed to aggravate my condition.

I must add that I wasn’t pressured into buying a single thing, and although the products seem a little pricey for a student budget, good skin and confidence is priceless.

To make an appointment for a skin-profiling session speak to a consultant at an Estee-Lauder counter in Boots, House of Fraser or Debenhams.

VIXEN

LIPS

PILLAR box lips were a big hit on the runway and now you can get the look this season with Youngblood’s new lipstick range.

As seen at the Louis Vuitton and Alexander McQueen catwalk shows, red lips are the fashion-forward, sophisticated shade of the season and Youngblood have launched Vixen Lipstick, a new twist on an old favourite.

Containing underlying blue hues for a higher-intensity colour that lasts, Vixen Lipstick is also packed with anti-oxidants there will be no excuse for chapped lips.

Priced at £13.50, Youngblood’s Vixen Lipstick is available from House of Fraser at Victoria Square and Secret Day Spa, Belmont Road, Belfast.

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

BEAUTY FEATURE 13

By ANDREA CLARKE & CATHY BLACK NEWS@FAMEINC.CO.UK ALTHOUGH sometimes considered oldfashioned, beauty pageants have proved time and again a successful springboard for students hoping to make their way into the world.

For many young people entering a beauty pageant builds confidence and teaches skills like public speaking, interview conduct and making a presentation.

Winning a beauty contest can also act as a springboard into a career in modelling and acting.

Last year we were reminded of the importance of these competitions again when Miss California, Carrie Prejean, caused a media frenzy after saying she didn’t believe in same-sex marriage.

She was later stripped of her crown and it became evident that the beauty queen no longer remains just a pretty face – she now represents the beliefs and aspirations of a country.

And as people’s morals and ethical beliefs are becoming more eco-aware, so to are the beauty pageants. The introduction of the Miss Earth competition in 2001, joining Miss World, Miss Universe and Miss International as “The Big Four” pageants, shows that beauty queens can stand for a cause.

Here are some of Northern Ireland’s beauty pageant winners…

MISS EARTH NORTHERN IRELAND MISS Earth Northern Ireland Kayleigh O’Reilly has revealed she wants to make a difference during her year long reign.

The 18-year-old model is determined to inspire the people of Northern Ireland to go green and save the planet.

“I am representing Northern Ireland now and I am nervous about that,” she said.

“I want to be recognised for being passionate about the environment and I want people to learn from me.

I want to teach people about these issues and set an example. As Miss Earth Northern Ireland I want to be a good role model.”

Since scooping the Miss Earth Northern Ireland crown this summer, Kayleigh has been busy training for the Miss Earth 2009 Final, due to take place on November 22 on the beautiful island of Boracay in the Philippines.

The competition, which has contestants from over 90 countries, con-

cludes with Miss Earth 2009 being crowned in a worldwide-televised grand final in the Philippines.

The ‘beauties for a cause’ pageant, managed by Converse Models in Northern Ireland, promotes environmental awareness across the globe.

During the month-long stay the Miss Earth delegates are all required to attend various seminars and educate people on their key environmental messages.

She said: “The Miss Earth competition is so different from any other beauty contest out there, it really is beauties for a cause and I really wanted to make a difference.”

MISS IRELAND

MISS NORTHERN IRELAND

DERRY choir singer Laura Patterson beat off stiff competition to take the Miss Ireland 2009 title earlier this month.

Laura outshone 30 other beauties to take the crown at a gala event in the Royal Marine Hotel, Dun Laoghaire.

The 19-year-old law and accountancy student will now go on to represent Ireland in the Miss World finals in Johannesburg on December 12.

Laura, who was crowned Miss Derry last month and Miss Earth Newry earlier this year, revealed winning the Miss Ireland was the most amazing experience of her life.

She said: “I was standing at the back of the stage when my name was called, I was just happy to be in the last ten, I never expected to win.

“Then everything went mad, I can’t even remember what happened. Photographers were everywhere and last year’s Miss Ireland came out and put my crown and sash on.

“I think in every competition, you always have your favourites picked in your own head, and it’s never yourself.

“You always have three or four girls in your head who are going to take it home.

“I wasn’t a favourite at all, I think I was 20-1.”

NEWLY crowned Miss Northern Ireland Cherie Gardiner took her title in July this year.

And the Bangor teenager is already being tipped to take the Miss World Crown in South Africa in December.

As well as the title the 5ft 10 blonde beauty won a £40,000 prize package including a Kia car for a year, designer dresses, lingerie, sunglasses and beauty products.

But winning came as a shock to the schoolgirl.

Fighting the flu, 17-year-old Cherie thought her illness had cost her the Northern Ireland crown.

She said: “I just can’t believe it, it’s still sinking in. It was definitely unexpected, there were so many amazing girls but I’m absolutely delighted.

“When my name was called I had to do a double take and check my number.

I just felt like such a princess for the night.

“The very next day I was thrown into doing interviews and photoshoots and I’ve just loved every moment of it.”

Cherie will now go onto to compete with 120 other girls in the 59th Miss World beauty contest on December 12 in Johannesburg.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY FABRIZIO BELLUSCHI & DONAL DOHERTY

BEAUTY QUEENS

14 BEAUTY FEATURE

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

SOCIOLOGY student Claire Murray isn’t your typical beauty pageant contestant.

With fiery red cropped hair on the winning night (now blonde), the 19-year-old from Bangor never expected to win the coveted title.

“It’s completely surreal”, said Claire.

“When I think back to that night it went so fast it was just a blur. All I could hear was everybody screaming in delight”.

Competing against 300 fellow Belfast beauties, Claire thought her unique style could go against her.

“On the night of the final all the other girls were blonde with long hair and curly updos, I thought my look would either work in my favour or against me”, she said.

“Fortunately it worked in my favour. Obviously the judges thought the competition needed a shift in a new direction.”

MISS SEXY SPECS

BELFAST woman Finola Guinnane has been crowned Northern Ireland’s Miss Sexy Specs.

The University of Ulster student beat out over 230 hopefuls to take the coveted title of Specsavers Spectacle Wearer of the Year.

Finola, 20, said: “I am shocked to have been chosen to go through to represent Northern Ireland at the international grand final in London, I didn’t think I stood a chance.”

Now in its thirteenth year, the international modelling competition

selects the best glasses wearers, judging contestants on their facial features, hair, vitality, personality and overall ‘specs appeal’.

Finola will now compete against specs wearers from Irelands, the UK and Europe at the international grand final at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London on Tuesday October 27.

The star-studded event, in aid of anti-bullying charity Kidscape, will be judged by Channel 4 presenter and celebrity stylist Gok Wan.

NORTHERN IRELAND’S SEXIEST MAN

Rogue Hair 48 Bradbury Place 028 9024 6162

PIC BY FABRIZIO BELLUSCHI

PIC BY FABRIZIO BELLUSCHI

MISS BELFAST

NORTHERN Ireland’s Sexiest Man Eamon McCrory has revealed he’s hoping winning the competition will help him achieve a dream of becoming the next Jamie Dornan.

The model, revealed if he had to aspire to be any male model in the industry it would definitely be the Bangor model.

He said: “Because I’m in advertising my ideal job would definitely be merging the two worlds together. I would love to be managing and directing a campaign that I am in.

“I need someone like that I can look up to and Jamie Dornan is the perfect person, he is from Northern Ireland and he has made it. In a dream world I would love his kind of success, who wouldn’t?

“Not everyone will admit it, but who would say no to the chance of being in a successful Calvin Klein advert?”

Earlier this month advertising executive Eamon was crowned the Northern Ireland’s Sexiest Man by Northern Woman magazine and soft drink Pepsi.

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

BEAUTY FEATURE 15

BUSINESS

Famous Former Beauty Queens

OF BEAUTY

Oprah Winfrey

GEMMA GARRETT FORMER Miss Great Britain Gemma Garrett says being a beauty queen is more than just how beautiful someone is.

The 28-year-old believes beauty must come with brains to be in with a chance of winning coveted titles such as Miss Great Britain, Miss World, Miss Universe and Miss Earth.

She said: “It’s not just about beauty, the most beautiful girl doesn’t win the competition, I wasn’t the most beautiful girl, it’s about being an ambassador.

“You need to be able to say something for yourself, you’re representing your country to the world, it’s not about how tiny your waist is or how pretty you are”.

During her reign the outspoken Belfast beauty queen caused controversy when she stood as a candidate for the Crewe and Nantwich by-election and later the Haltemprice and Howden by-election.

And even though Gemma admits it gave her publicity, she really wanted to highlight the issues important to her.

“I knew I wasn’t going to win but I felt it was important to get my issues out there”, she said.

“I’m not denying it got me a lot of publicity but some people said

it was a stunt and that really hurt me because I was campaigning for things close to my heart.

“At the time two of my cousins were serving in Afghanistan and I wanted to highlight their issues.

There were a lot of different things I felt passionate about”.

During her yearlong reign, Gemma secured a modelling contract with American designer Jovani, posed for a host of national newspapers and magazines but she has also used her profile to highlight many charities close to her heart.

“When I got crowned Miss Great Britain I looked back at all the past winners to see what they had achieved”, said Gemma.

“I really didn’t want to just skip through my year, I wanted to do something different and something I really believed in.

“I hope I have set an example for future Miss Great Britains and will inspire them to follow their passions”.

Now a keen businesswoman Gemma has used her year as a beauty queen to springboard her career in the media, entertainment and fashion industry.

AT the tender age of 21, Melissa Patton has won the Miss Northern Ireland crown and competed in the Miss World beauty pageant but the Belfast model has taken on her biggest challenge yet – running a modelling agency.

Melissa recently took on the role of Model Manager for upand-coming local agency Converse Models.

Since its launch last year, the agency has been successfully recruiting models in the Londonderry area and across Northern Ireland.

A far cry from her north Belfast roots, during her reign as Miss Northern Ireland Melissa forged a successful modelling and promotional career.

At a lavish ceremony in the Europa Hotel, Melissa, then 18-years-old, took the title.

“I remained myself throughout the competition, I never pretended I was something I wasn’t, I was totally, 100 per cent me.

“I knew then

Sarah Palin

PHOTOGRAPHY BY FABRIZIO BELLUSCHI

BY ANDREA CLARKE

Dubbed “the most influential woman in the world”, chat-show queen and billionaire Oprah was crowned Miss Black Te n n e s s e e in 1971, and later won the title Miss Fire Prevention.

Former Alaska governor and Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin was named Miss Wasilla in 1984 and went on to compete in Miss Alaska were she was voted Miss Congeniality.

Halle Berry

The stunning actress, who is the only woman of AfricanAmerican descent to win an Academy Award for Best Actress, won the crown of Miss Ohio in 1986.

Eva Longoria

MELISSA PATTON that if I won it was because I was myself and if I didn’t win, well I was myself the whole time and I couldn’t have done any better.

“I was absolutely gob smacked when they called my name as the winner of Miss Northern Ireland, it was one of those emotional, happy, excited moments. I was feeling everything, I was crying but there were no tears.

“I was just so happy that my family and my boyfriend w e r e there t h a t night to see m e , they were r e ally

proud of me. It was an amazing feeling.

“It was a bit daunting because it was a real responsibility but I loved every minute of it.”

As Miss Northern Ireland the teenage beauty queen was thrust into the world of modelling, but the 5ft 9 stunner took it in her stride.

She said: “I loved being a model. I am passionate about modelling, I love it.

“Everyone thinks it’s all glamorous and you get to see the world, and while you do get to do that and it’s an amazing job, you have to recognise it does take a lot of commitment and hard work.

“Somebody who is not willing to put the work in has no place in the modelling industry.

“The one thing that really stands out in my year as Miss Northern Ireland was going to the Miss World competition.

“It’s the biggest beauty competition ever and I just thought, I’m going to this pageant for five weeks in China, a country I’ve never set foot in before, to compete with the best of the best from all over the world, this is incredible.”

Actress, model and successful restaurant owner Eva won the title Miss C o r p u s Chrisit in 1989 while she was study- ing for a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology.

Vanessa Williams

After being the first African American to be crowned Miss America in 1983, the Ugly Betty star was controversially stripped of her title after nude pictures of her were leaked. S h e went on to record nine successful albums and forge a successful television career.

Sophia Loren

Award-winning actress and UN Goodwill Ambassador, runnerup for Miss Italy in 1950 , who became one of biggest sex symbols in film history

16 FASHION

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

WINTER WARME

BY ANDREA CLARKE ANDREA@FAMEINC.CO.UK DESPITE the short bursts of sunshine Autumn is officially here.

Well on the high street anyway.

The days are getting shorter, the leaves are changing colour and there’s a crisp coolness in the air – it’s time to stock up your wardrobe for the winter.

Many of the big high street chains have been filtering in their Autumn Winter ranges from early July and now is the perfect time to start buying those wardrobe staples that will see you through to February.

First on the agenda is a good winter coat. There are so many styles to choose from so go for something that flatters your figure – that’s goes for men as well as women.

Everyone wants a coat that not only keeps the heat in but also lasts long and looks trendy too. Winter coats are generally quite pricey so before you hit the shops have a budget in mind and stick to it.

Try on different styles – you may think you suit a short woollen jacket but a long trench coat might look better.

Remember when choosing a colour opt for something that will go with most outfits and suits your personality.

Layering is a handy fashion tip for men and women this season so invest in good knitwear especially cardigans and sweater vests.

Wearing layers will also save you money as you can team summer vests and t-shirts with chunky knits and scarves.

Indiana Jean £60 from French Connection

Florence & Fred shawl collar cardigan £20 from Tesco

CLASS MEN….

TOPMAN has launched a new student initiative offering monthly benefits and shopping sprees.

The In Genius programme, unveiled last month, gives fashion advice, get the look features and offers benefits tailored exclusively to students needs.

A dedicated student zone on Topman.com offers students monthly benefits as well as the opportunity to win shopping sprees plus exclusive partner offers.

Topman has also linked up with music streaming site We7 to give In Genius members a free music download

of their choice when they sign up.

To be part of the ‘In Genius’ loyalty programme simply log on to www.topman.com/ students or text ‘Student’ plus your email address to 83338. In Genius’ is exclusive to students.

CLASS WANTS… FUNKY accessories site Punky Pins have launched their brand new website featuring a fabulous new apparel range.

As well as their line of kitsch and unusual jewellery you can now get your own personalised t-shirts and hoodies.

The collection includes ice cream graphic sweatshirts, superhero initial t-shirts and personalised chunky name necklace t-shirts (pictured).

The handmade jewellery ranges from stud earrings, charm bracelets and necklaces, Punky Pins features the cutest bang on-trend acrylic jewellery on the web.

The website’s latest jewellery additions includes horse themed necklaces, with four cute styles including Cara Carousel, Flying Ulrika, Ulrika the Unicorn and Rocking Robin.

Celebrity fans include Girls Aloud star Cheryl Cole, Peaches Geldof and X Factor winner Alexandra Burke.

Visit www.punkypins.co.uk to see the full range.

Blue casual t-shirt from the new collection Born By Ted Baker £25 from Ted Baker

Grey leather ankle boot western style £85 from Faith Footwear

Brown knitted pea coat, £50 from Topman

Students may well have become more style conscious but a student loan only stretches so far, so Topman are lending a hand by increasing their student discount to 15% for a limited period only.

This promotion will run until October 18, 2009, giving students the chance to update their wardrobe ready for the new term. Any valid student card will be accepted in store and online.

FASHION 17

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

ERS

CLASS LABEL… Top £65 Kenneth Cole at House of Fraser

Black military coat £55 Sainsbury’s Tu Clothing

TO help students shopping on a budget Victoria Square in Belfast is offering a special VIP student card. This card entitles a student, with valid ID, to a host of exclusive offers and discounts at a range of their stores and restaurants including Topshop, Urban Outfitters and Faith.

For a full list of participating stores and discounts visit www.victoriasquare.com.

Silver chainmail scarf necklace £50 from Freedom at Topshop, Victoria Square

Black denim skirt £28 from Dorothy Perkins

Masues bag £20 from Ted Baker

ONE of CLASS’ favourite designers is bringing their luxury shoes and handbags to the high street.

Shoe God Jimmy Choo will design a collection of covetable shoes and bags to selected H&M stores this autumn.

The collection will be available from November 14 in around 200 stores across the world.

And it won’t just be the ladies Jimmy designs will be impressing, the collaboration also includes a men’s collec-

tion of shoes, bags and accessories.

In Hollywood, Jimmy Choo shoes have become a redcarpet essential, adorning the feet of Oscar winning actresses and the stars of Sex and the City.

The famous Choo shoes will be at the heart of the exclusive collection for H&M, but there’s more. Jimmy Choo has also become well known for its bags, and for H&M there will be a whole range of accessories to complete the look.

Go Coco Chanel at Matalan HIGH street chain Matalan have brought out a quilted bag range as an homage to the famous Chanel accessories.

Chanel’s timeless appeal is more prominent than ever this season with the release of the film Coco Before Chanel, starring Audrey Tautou.

For a signature Chanel look without the hefty price tag, these quilted chain handle bags are perfect. The large shoppers in statement colours red and navy are (pictured) £8 and the classic black and white rococo bag is £6.

For under a tenner they have a real luxury feel and it won’t damage the purse strings.

CLASS BARGAIN… Spellman over the knee flat boots £36 from Littlewoods

Black Button Cardigan £18 from Marks & Spencer

FASHIONISTAS and green goddesses alike, get poised to get your mitts on a gorgeous free designer ‘IT’ bag, as Diet Coke teams up with New York stylist to the stars and one of fashion’s greatest visionaries, Patricia Field, to bring you the sassiest eco shopper around.

Showcasing the Sex and the City stylist’s unique urban flair, this must-have, limited edition accessory will be given away free to customers who purchase two 500ml bottles of Diet Coke in Boots on the Boucher Road from October 22.

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

WHO IS ANDREW MULVENNA?

ANDREW Mulvenna has teamed up with Trevor Sorbie’s My New Hair foundation providing ‘psychological medicine’ to women across Northern Ireland suffering hair loss as a result of an illness.

The My New Hair foundation is a nation-

al network of hair professionals famed for their skills and talent, such as Andrew Collinge, Umberto Giannini, Guy Kremer and Charles Worthington, in an initiative to offer women and advice on wig purchasing and subsequently customizing a style to enrich a client’s confidence and

THE ACADEMY THE Academy at Andrew Mulvenna expands across 1100 sq ft of space purely designed for industry training for salons and individuals across the country.

L’Oreal use the Academy at Andrew Mulvenna as its Northern Ireland base, regularly hosting training seminars with top industry professionals and iconic figures.

GHD also use the Academy collaborating with Andrew to educate hairdressers across Northern Ireland.

ANDREW Mulvenna started his career two decades ago and is twice winner of the Northern Ireland Hairdresser of the Year Award.

Andrew opened his first salon in 2001 to great praise and has now moved his salon to a new downtown location in Belfast city centre that incorporates a coffee dock, colour studio, male groom zone, blow-dry bar, beauty spa and an academy.

The award-winning hair stylist works alongside his artistic team to create new images for the glossies, shows, seasonal collections and signature techniques for the salon.

Andrew also develops his own educational seminars and travels across the globe to share his philosophies and ideas.

MY NEW HAIR

ADVERTORIAL 19

look during their sensitive time.

Andrew has incorporated a My New Hair VIP area in the salon for privacy and comfort.

The team provide a free consultancy and wig-cutting service provided the wig is purchased through the salon.

20 ENTERTAINMENT WITH TINA CALDER

SEXY TV star Myleene Klass was left red-faced last month after she was stopped at airport security in London.

The presenter, who was headed to Canada to interview Matt Damon for the Toronto Film Festival, had her shampoo and conditioner confiscated while standing in HOLLYWOOD movie star Natalie Portman proved she’s just as normal as the rest of us last week when she got caught short at Muriel’s Bar in Belfast.

The Oscar nominee and Golden Globe Award winner met up with my spy as she came out of the ladies toilet in the downtown pub.

Natalie confessed to Belfast girl Laura Reilly as she met her outside: “Hey, there’s no toilet paper left”.

But according to Laura, Natalie’s NORTHERN Ireland trio General Fiasco are set to complete their UK tour with a highly anticipated gig at Belfast’s Ulster Hall next month.

The band who have spent the last two years writing and endlessly touring are finally seeing their hard work pay off by being able to book the prestigious Belfast venue.

Owen Strathern (vocals/ bass) and his brother Enda Strathern (guitars) met Stephen Leacock (drums) at school and bonded over a love of music.

General Fiasco play the Ulster Hall in Belfast on October 31. Tickets priced £13 are available from www.thestiffkitten.com.

General Fiasco’s latest single We Are Foolish is released on October 12. www.myspace.com/generalfiasco

front of football legend David Beckham.

Myleene, who is the face of Pantene hair products, told me: “It was so embarrassing. I was going through the motions as always at the security desks when they insisted on searching my bag.

“They pulled out two giant bottles of

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

shampoo and conditioner which of course were Pantene and told me I couldn’t have them.

“I then tried to negotiate with them explaining that although they were big bottles and I had emptied most of the contents out.

I told them if they checked they would see there was only 100mls in the bottles.

“At this stage they were laughing at me and one said ‘you travel all the time you should know it’s the size of the bottle and not how much is in it’ and I just said ‘but I have to interview Matt Damon’.

“And if all that wasn’t bad enough I turned around and there was David Beckham standing behind me. I’d left him standing waiting and all the while he was listening to the whole thing. I was mortified.

“I bet Posh has it together when she’s travelling.”

Myleene was at Marks & Spencer in Lisburn to launch the clothing store’s new Indigo range.

night got much, and was wearing just much better as she a pair of jeans and was spotted “snog- simple top. She had ging the face of” her hair pulled back the guy she came in a pony tail.” into the bar with.

Apparently the B OY Z O pair got very hot lead singer N E Ronan and steamy and Keating is quickly left. tralia in Novheaded for AusLaura added: “I promotional ember on a solo trail. couldn’t believe it The man when I saw her, it his new solo-bander will be plugging was definitely her, already has album Winter Songs bu I’ve been a fan for a ics down un come under fire by cr t it der for the title”. long time. “inappropria te “I could barely One critic sa id: “the albu speak to her when I met her at the toi- Winter Songs m is calle lets. She looked absolutely beautiful seasonal co which is an album ofd vers but I just don’t know how th at considering it will go down here ’s just weeks being released before our summer”.

Hear Tina Calder’s showbiz show every Sunday 12-3pm on Feile 103.2 FM

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

ENTERTAINMENT 21

PHOTOGRAPHY BY FABRIZIO BELLUSCHI

TOP international DJ and music producer Micky Modelle has released his new single Whine Up. And the Bangor based hit-maker, best known for tunes such as Dancing In the Dark, revealed he’s excited about the new video which went to air this week.

He added: “We used two very famous American vocalists for this record and it was an absolute honour to be able to work with them.

“Zhana Saunders and Archie Ninja (who shot to fame as part of the Madonna Ninja Troupe in the 80s) are two of the most talented singers I’ve worked with in a long time.”

Micky will be back at the Odyssey Arena in December with the Clubland 3 tour along with artists such as Cascacda, N Dubz, Agnes and Darren Styles.

I’D Do Anything star Rachel Tucker finally said “I do” to theatre director Guy Retallack last month at a star-studded ceremony in Belfast.

We were given access by the West End star who has just completed a run in the hit musical We Will Rock You. Speaking before her evening reception Rachel said: “My favourite part of the day was walking up the aisle with my dad and looking at everybody – all my friends and family in the church, then seeing my husband-to-be at the top of the aisle.

“When it was all over I can remember the first words Guy said ‘I love you, I’m so proud of you’.”

IRISH girl-band star Healy has revealed Una firmly on “team Anshe's dre“ recently.

And Una, pictured he re with our Editor in Ch ief , Tina Calder, who is one of group The Saturdfifth ays along with Mollie King, Vanessa White, Roch Wiseman and Fra elle Sandford wasn't the nkie one of the band wh only for Peter Andre's cho fell arms recently.

Apparently the met him in Manchegirls recently and said th ster at he made them “go weak at the knees“.

Una added on Twitter page: “Just for her record, Peter Andre the real gentleman! An is a d he smells lovely!“

SPEAKING of tribute acts Belfast singer Marty McStravick is gearing up for another massive performance later this month at the Empire Music Hall.

Marty (AKA Paul Stanley), who is the lead singer of Kiss tribute band Hotter Than Hell, is so successful that the real Paul Stanley recruited him to teach his own son guitar at Camp Rock in America.

Hotter Than Hell, which comprises of two Belfast guys and two Italian musicians, will be back at The Empire Music Hall on Halloween night October 31.

MISS Northern Ireland Cherie Gardner got up close and personal with her own Sexiest Man last week when she was snapped by our photographer snogging her boyfriend at the Northern Woman Pepsi Sexiest Man competition.

And the 17-year-old beauty had no interest in

winner Eamon McCrory (25) who scooped the top prize.

Despite being pictured in a wedding dress for a fashion show recently the model is keeping things real and enjoying her year as Miss Northern Ireland before she makes any serious commitments.

22 HALLOWEEN

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

GETTING SPOOKY

BY ANDREA CLARKE ANDREA@FAMEINC.CO.UK OCTOBER can only mean one thing – Hallowe’en.

Whether you’re having a party at home or heading out to one of the many Hallowe’en celebrations in the City Centre, October 31 is a time to dress up, play games, stuff your face with sweets, dance and party.

Despite the ghoulish costumes, scary movies and spooky treats, Hallowe’en is a fun time for the young and old.

But what does Hallowe’en really mean?

Hallowe’en takes its origins from the ancient Celtic festival Samhain, which marked the beginning of the

New Year.

Celebrating the end of the harvest and the beginning of winter, this festival also had spiritual significance for ancient Celts.

October 31 is exactly between the Autumnal Equinox (September 20) and the Winter Solstice (December 21), this was considered a very powerful time for communicating with spirits.

According to their beliefs, the veil between the living and the dead is at its thinnest on this day so the dead were invited to return to feast with their loved ones. Ancient customs range from such placing food out for dead ancestors, to performing rituals for communicating with those who had passed over.

As Christianity began spreading

Halloween Metro Monster Mash is back!

IT’S that time again.

Witches, ghosts and their familiars are coming out to play and Hallowe’en in Belfast is set to be the most spooktacular yet.

The 2009 Metro Monster Mash on Saturday 31 October will mark the end of two weeks of events to celebrate the reopening of Belfast City Hall following its £11 million refurbishment.

Belfast City Council has arranged a variety of activities throughout the day, at St George’s Market, City Hall and Clarendon Dock, with all sorts of creepy goings-on guaranteed to chill even the sturdiest of souls.

The main entertainment programme begins at Clarendon Dock (beside the former Seacat terminal) at 6.30pm, with special guest presenters from UTV, who will be helping the TV station celebrate its 50th birthday at the event.

More than 40 street entertainers and all sorts of surprises will keep revellers looking over their shoulders throughout the evening And no Hallowe’en celebration is complete without a fireworks display.

Free shuttle bus To ensure that all the little ghosts and ghouls as well as banshees, vampires, witches, zombies, warlocks and their familiars can make their way to and from the spooktacle, Translink Metro will once again be operating their free `ghost bus` shuttle service – complete with special onboard fancy dress competitions, with fangtastic prizes for the creepiest costumes.

Buses will leave Chichester Street for Clarendon Dock, dropping off in Corporation Square, every 15 minutes from 6pm – 8pm. Return shuttle buses will operate from Corporation Square to City Hall from 8.30pm – 9.30pm.

throughout Celtic countries, the Church discouraged such celebrations particularly fortune telling and communing with spirits.

All Saints’ Day was created for November 1 and Samhain become replaced with All Hallow’s Eve, meaning the evening before All Hallows Day. Despite this many of the ancient pagan and Celtic traditions remained, for example the tradition of wearing a costume on Halloween comes from the Celtic Druids. On Samhain they would light bonfires and as they danced around the fire they would wear disguises of animal skin and masks. This was said to protect them from evil spirits.

Happy Hallowe’en!

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

HALLOWEEN 23

IN BELFAST How to Carve a Hallowe’en Pumpkin

Win Movie House tickets

CARVING a pumpkin is a Hallowe’en tradition and over the years they have become more and more elaborate.

Not content with carving a scary face in a pumpkin or turnip, revellers are becoming more ambitious in their designs.

The brains behind the Dremel 300 multi-tool have created a step-bystep guide to carving a pumpkin.

Step One Using a pencil, draw your design onto the pumpkin. Press lightly at first until you are happy with the design and then go over the lines to clearly define them.

Step Two Using a Dremel 300 multi-tool and high-speed cutter accessory, cut around the top of the pumpkin to form a lid. Set to one side. Scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh of the pumpkin with a spoon making sure that you do not puncture the skin.

Step Three Use the Dremel to carefully cut out the shapes. Work into the corners and curves carefully to ensure a neat finish.

Step Four Put a candle or nightlight inside the pumpkin and light to finish.

The Dremel 300 series Hobby kit is available from DIY stores and online, SRP £44.99. For more information visit www.dremel.co.uk

MOVIE House Cinemas are offering you the chance to win one of 5 pairs of tickets to see Cirque du Freak: the Vampire’s Assistant this October.

Tipped to be the hottest film this month, the Cirque du Freak saga begins at Movie House on October 23.

This fantastic film tells the story of 16-year-old Darren Shan, played

by Chris Massoglia, who stumbles into a travelling freak show only to come under the spell of a powerful vampire.

For show times for any Movie House

Belfast

Ghost

- Dublin Road,Yorkgate/ Cityside,Glengormley, Maghera and Jet Centre Coleraine - check out the brand newwebsite at www.moviehouse. co.uk.

To win a pair of tickets simply answer this question: Q: What date is Cirque du Freak: the Vampire’s Assistant released at Movie House?

Send your answer, name and contact telephone number to competitions@ fameinc.co.uk. Closing date for entries is Monday October 19 at 4pm.

Halloween

Hunt Spooky Sweets TOURS of Belfast are hosting a special Ghost Hunt in Belfast this Hallowe’en.

Taking place on October 29 and November 26, the tour begins at the gates of Clifton Street Graveyard where local historians and crime writers will regale visitors with tales of the bodysnatchers and other characters.

As budding ghost hunters walk the short distance to the gates of the abandoned County Antrim Prison, they will hear the stories of Galloper Thompson and other unexplained phenomena.

At the prison, the tour explores subterranean passageways and secret dungeons with accounts of Victorian Belfast. Guests can then make contact with ghosts of the past with paranormal experts.

This tour is strictly for adults only and costs £10.

For further information or to book a place visit www.toursofbelfast.com or call Glenravel Local History Project 028 9074 2255.

THIS Halloween offer the witches and ghosts on your doorstep some scary sweets as a treat and no one has a better line up of freakish, frightening, chews than A Quarter Of, the traditional online sweetshop.

Take your pick from strawberry flavoured Dracula Fangs, fruity and chewy Scary Spiders, Jelly Skeletons or Giant Rats or the particularly gruesome Squirting Skulls - gums with oozy, juicy, centres which spurts out as you bite into them. From £1.83 a quarter (250g), these sweets are terribly tasty.

And, if you want to indulge in a veritable spooky Halloween feast, choose one of A Quarter Of’s Halloween Boxes of Horribly Tasty Treats which are filled to the brim with all kinds of sinister, yet delicious, sweets.

The boxes are available in three sizes - small, medium and large, priced at £17.97, £23.47 and £33.74 respectively.

Visit www.AQuarterOf.co.uk.

24 CAMPAIGN

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

BELFAST MET URGE STUDENTS TO UNITE AGAINST HATE BELFAST Metropolitan College launched a Unite Against Hate petition and are urging students to sign it during Fresher’s Week.

Unite Against Hate is a multiagency campaign initiated by the Office of the First and Deputy First Minister, Equality Commission, Community Relations Council, Northern Ireland Office Community Safety Unit and the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

The campaign highlights all six forms of hate crime including homophobia, racism, sectarianism and transphobia as well as prejudices based around a persons faith or disability and challenges everyone in Northern Ireland to unite to stop it.

Speaking at the launch, Miss Northern Ireland (pictured with Crusaders star Colin Coates) Cherie Gardiner, backed the initiative.

She said: “I am delighted to be asked to support the Unite Against Hate campaign at Belfast Metropolitan College.

“I am so proud of Northern Ireland and as a student, I enjoy meeting and having friends from across the community.

“I can’t see any justification for anyone to be subjected to prejudice because of their sexual orientation, religion or faith, ethnicity or disability.

“In representing Northern Ireland I hope to be able to promote the welcoming and friendly image that

Belfast Met students handed out Unite Against Hate wristbands to football fans heading to the recent World Cup Qualifier between Northern Ireland and Slovakia at Windsor Park, Belfast. The campaign is supported by the Irish Football Association (IFA), Gaelic Athletics Association (GAA) and the Belfast Giants to name a few.

Alex Best backs campaign

Northern Ireland is renowned for.

Join me, Unite against Hate and sign the petition at Belfast Met.” Dr. Raymond Mullan, Interim Director and Chief Executive at Belfast Metropolitan College added: “I am delighted that Belfast Metropolitan College is leading the Unite Against Hate campaign within the Belfast student com-

munity. As a College, we actively promote diversity and strive to create a climate of zero tolerance for discrimination – these mirror the Unite Against Hate objectives.”

If you wish to sign the petition, visit www.belfastmet.ac.uk or www. uniteagainsthate.org.uk or visit any of the Belfast Metropolitan College campuses.

Local celebrities launch Unite Against Hate campaign BANGOR TV presenter Zoe Salmon flew back home recently to help launch the Unite Against Hate campaign.

Wearing a Unite Against Hate campaign t-shirt, Zoe joined Cool FM’s Pete Snodden and singer Peter Corry to encourage the people of Northern Ireland to help eradicate hate crime.

Zoe said: “Hatred always involves making a choice. People make the choice to attack, to abuse, to exclude, to stand back and do nothing about it.

“Unite and show support for the victims who suffer homophobic, racist, disability, transphobic, sectarian and faith crimes.

“Nobody deserves it and nobody deserves to get away with it. We all need to make the right choice, recognise and respect difference.”

The anti-hate crime group has chosen the Michael Jackson hit Man in the Mirror as the anthem for the campaign.

The song, recorded

by Belfast singer Peter Corry, was played at the launch for the first time.

Peter has joined a host of Northern Ireland celebrities and sporting stars by backing Unite Against Hate.

He said “We came so far in the last decade, if we want to continue this journey we need to keep making those steps forward, and this campaign is yet another step towards a better future for all people here in Northern Ireland.”

Micky Modelle, who produced the remake of the iconic song to-

gether with James Everett, was delighted to be involved in such a worthy initiative.

He said: “I am passionate about music and I see it as a universal language which can bridge differences of all kinds.”

A number of organisations including the Irish Football Association, Gaelic Athletic Association, Belfast Giants as well as Belfast Festival at Queen’s and Culture Night Belfast, have already pledged support for the campaign.

To support of find out further details about the campaign and planned events visit www.uniteagainsthate.org.uk.

Model Alex Best joined Belfast businessman Bill Wolsey and politician Lord Diljit Singh Rana in Belfast to support the Unite Against Hate campaign.

Alex, who was married to the late Northern Ireland soccer star George Best, said: “Over the years I have spent a lot of time in Northern Ireland and I was shocked to see the recent reports of racism and hate crime.

“A more tolerant and peaceful Northern Ireland is both desirable and possible. We need to have the optimism, hope and confidence that we can work together to bring it about.”

Unite Against Hate, a multi-agency driven initiative seeking to challenge notions of prejudice and hate.

The campaign anthem is the Michael Jackson hit Man in the Mirror, which has been produced by International DJ and music producer Micky Modelle and recorded by Belfast singer Peter Corry.

Over the coming months, the public will have the chance to show their support for the campaign by participating in a range of diversity events.

To support of find out further details about the campaign and planned events visit www. uniteagainsthate.org.uk or join our Facebook group.

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

FOOD & DRINK 25

Spice COMES TO the City BELFAST’S trendy Lisburn Road is set to become the location for the Bengal Brasserie, Ireland’s largest Indian Restaurant.

The new 200 seater eatery brings a significant £2m investment to the city as well as 60 full and part time jobs for the catering industry.

Work is well under way at the Bengal’s prime 5,000 sq ft location in the hip student area, which will be open for business at the end of October. And, once completed it will officially become Ireland’s biggest spice explosion as well as the second Bengal Brasserie in the city.

Nigel Rahman, owner of The Bengal Brasserie said: “The Bengal Brasserie Group currently has four outlets in Belfast and Newcastle. Co. Down.

“We began trading on the Ormeau Road 20 years ago.

We are committed to reinvesting within the city to bring another imaginative

cooking style to the Lisburn Road.

“The Bengal will offer a distinctive dining experience for food lovers as well as state of the art business and conferencing facilities, which will cater for more

than 60 people.

“With plasma screens, a new interactive website where customers will soon be able to order their favourite dishes at www.bengalbrasseriebelfast.co.uk , WiFi facilities and authentic

cuisine, this will become an alternative venue to conduct meetings or have a meal in impressive surroundings.”

The £2m investment in the new eatery will also provide a real wow factor with the interiors fus-

ing vibrant Indian street scenes alongside ultra modern design.

The restaurant also boosts unique purpose built black tea houses that will offer private dining, fibre optic lighting and a balcony to an ultra modern arctic white bar as well as a 30m long smoked glass wall.

Nigel added: “We have spent many months planning each intricate aspect of the restaurant and we have sourced a series of hand crafted statues from India that celebrate the best of Indian heritage. They will take pride of place in the Brasserie alongside expert Indian cuisine and world class wines.

“Belfast now offers some of the best food in Europe and we believe it’s time to add a little extra spice. Locals and tourists alike will definitely want to be part of this new and unique Eastern experience.”

CLASS RECIPE NOW the autumn chill is in the air here is the perfect smoothie to warm your insides and set you up for the day.

1 pot of plain low fat yogurt 1 large banana 1 apple a pinch of cinnamon a pinch of nutmeg 1 pinch of toasted flaked almonds Instructions Blend together all the ingredients except the almonds.

Once you have a s m o o t h blend, sprinkle the almonds on top and serve.

LEARN TO DRIVE With Associated Schools Of Motoring ASM Instructors will help you pass your test and drive safely with fully structured training to keep you on track and ensure maximum value.

Our ‘coaching’ method uses a supportive, yet challenging approach.

The ASM method will help you recognise your strengths and weaknesses and show you the best way to accelerate your progress.

With Associated Schools Of Motoring you will get: - FREE course handouts to help you learn quicker - Driver’s record to keep a check on your progress - Fast track or easy pace driving lessons to fit your needs - Full one hour lessn to ensure you gain maximum value - Flexible pick up and drop off points - No car sharing, we are dedicated to you - SPECIAL RATE EXCLUSIVELY FOR BELFAST MET STUDENTS Associated Schools Of Motoring instructors in partnership with Driver Science NI are proud to be able to offer the a2om driving course, which is based on European Goals for driver education.

On successful completion of the course you will be awarded a BTEC intermediate level award, equivalent to GCSE level, it is accredited by Edexcel, the UK’s largest awarding body. Find out more details by logging onto www.a2om.com or ask your instructor for details.

BONUS VALUE OPTIONS - BTEC courses to save money on your car insurance - Motorway lessons for maximum safety and confidence after you pass - Full range of learning materials - Parents and grandparents gift vouchers

Dave’s Driving Tuition, Tel: 0778 873 3574 www.davesdrivingtuition.com

Ken’s School of Motoring Tel: 0800 955 6886 www.kensdrivingschoolbelfast.co.uk

Jet School of Motoring Contact Daniel Boyle Tel: 0779 516 1639 The Driving Academy Contact Andy Morrow Tel: 0798 018 8078 Jordanstown School of Motoring Tel: 0785 508 9512 www.jordanstownschoolofmotoring.co.uk

Castle School Of Motoring Contact John Johnston Tel: 07811 396 733 Approved Driving School contact John Milligan Tel: 07808 959 249 Trevor’s School of Motoring Contact Trevor Waring Tel: 0777 196 3961

A.S.M Enquiries Tel: 07501 067 558

www.associatedschoolsofmotoring.com

27 DRIVING

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

DRIVEN TO SUCCEED

OUR PROMISE

ASSOCIATED Schools of Motoring NI Ltd offer a unique learning experience with a team of fully qualified, dedicated driving instructors.

What makes this company different is that it is made up of a group of independent driving schools, who have joined together to better provide a quality service to the general public.

As a group, members can avail of discounts on things like fuel, insurance, training material, which keeps the costs down for the customer.

ASM NI also holds group seminars with experienced trainers to increase skills and knowledge, which can then be passed on to the clients.

Ken Adams, MD of ASM NI, said: “Learning to drive can seem like a daunting experience, but with the right instructor by your side, guiding you through, it can be even be fun.

“Finding the right instructor to suit you is important as you will be spending a lot of time together in your training car.”

ASM NI trainers offer a range of training options for learning to drive including single lessons per week, semi intensive courses and intensive courses, designed to suit

We will develop your driving skills so that you not only pass the test but become a confident and economic driver – this will save money in years to come and help ensure your safety and security on the road.

While we’ll show you some test routes you will not be bored by driving around test routes every driving lesson, once you pass your test you may never drive on a test route again.

We will give you the confidence you need to go further away from home to experience different roads in areas where are you most likely to drive after your test.

We will help you by following the syllabus developed by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) to help you pass the theory, HPT and the practical test. The DSA are the people who will be conducting your driving test, so it pays to get the best driving tuition possible.

Associated Schools of Motoring instructors put you first – call us today to find out about our latest offers.

you and your commitments.

As well as learner driver training, ASM NI offers HGV training, Institute of Advanced Motorist training, fleet and minibus training, and the recently added a2om BTEC in Driving Science.

At ASM, the instructors have pledged to offer learners help with the theory test, I.E. with CDs or books and training manuals to

help the clients better understand the principles of good driving.

Ken said: “All our instructors have all signed up to the code of practice for driving instructors designed by the Driving Standards Agency. All our members are independent driving schools working together as a co-operative.

“ASM can help find the right instructor for you, and as we have a list of members, if things do

not work out you can always find a replacement for you, as all our trainers follow the same curriculum you shouldn’t have a problem continuing where you left off.

“On behalf of all at Associated Schools of Motoring, we wish you a successful term at College.”

To find out more about ASM and our instructors visit www.associatedschoolsofmotoring.com or call 07501067558.

TO YOU

28 JOBS & SKILLS

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

STUDENT COLLABORATION BMC are committed to providing students with an introduction to local industries.

Employment Services at BMC offer students exciting opportunities for work experience and partnerships within their chosen field.

The programme offers placements during study, aimed at helping students become more employable when you leave the College and skill development workshops.

The dedicated Employment Unit helps to prepare students for the realities of the working world and provide them with the skills to give them an advantage in the workplace.

ENNISKILLEN student Alison Wylie has won the top prize at Belfast Met’s Entrepreneurs Quiz.

Alison won an Acer Netbook through BMC’s latest initiative to find the next budding entrepreneur.

Nuala Kilmartin, Enterprise Offi-

cer at Belfast Metropolitan College said: “Alison is thrilled and has plans to start her own business when she completes her Estate Management qualifications and has now joined our Entrepreneurs Club to avail of the support and direction she requires.”

Job Club offers students a wide range of benefits that support your activities both now and in the future. These are exciting new developments, aimed at enhancing your personal development and increasing your chances of getting a job. Job Club includes: ¦Job Market offering part-time job vacancies and employment opportunities when completing your course ¦Workshops helping you to build the skills employers are looking for ¦Guest speakers give you the opportunity to meet the employers, learn what it takes to succeed in the work place or in your own business, pick up tips on key employment areas. ¦Regular, exciting events aimed at increasing your understanding of the world of work, improving your employability skills and chances of getting a job and enhancing your whole student experience at Belfast Metropolitan College. ¦Personal development through voluntary and fund-raising activities – learn, have fun and raise money for worthy causes at the same time. ¦Collaborate offers support to Graduates entering the workplace through its highly successful Collaborate Graduate Development programme. ¦Project-based learning gives HE students the opportunity to work on a live industry project, bringing a real understanding of teamwork and an appreciation of work applications and disciplines. ¦Placements that provide BMC HE students with valuable work experience during their time at the College. Studies have shown that students and graduates with relevant work experience are highly regarded by today’s employers.

For further information on any of the above programmes, go to the website through My Belfast Met, Job Club or www.belfastmet.ac.uk/studentsupport, email employmentservices@belfastmet.ac.uk or call Patricia on 9026 5235

Careers & Counselling Advice at BMC STARTING college is an exciting challenge but for some it can be overwhelming – that’s where the Careers Guidance and Counselling Team come in.

A new college year has started, it’s an opportunity to meet new friends, join new clubs and societies and for some it may be the first experience of living away from home.

You are also starting out on your career. Taking a course in BMC will give you the qualifications and skills you need help you take your place in the workforce of the future. The Careers Guidance and Counselling team can help you too.

Cynthia Fulton, the Careers and Guidance Service Manager at BMC said: “We offer support for career planning; help you to identify your skills and strengths and help you to prepare for

interviews so you show yourself in the best possible light.”

Being a student is only one aspect of your life. From time to time you may feel stress because of other things happening in your life. The Guidance and Counselling team are here to help you at times of difficulty.

“We will listen as you explore issues that are important to you, and help you find solutions that work for you,” said Cynthia.

“At times we may refer you to other agencies if that is what is best for you.

“Look out for our posters and opening times in each of the main buildings, come along to the Guidance and Counselling Service room on your campus and have a look at the Guidance and Counselling area of the website.”

For appointments call 9026 5333.

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

JOBS & SKILLS 29

TO TWEET Five students scoop science grant OR NOT FIVE Belfast Metropolitan College stuhave been awarded the Nuffield SciTO TWEET? dents ence Bursary.

IF you’re into texting, Facebook, Flickr or YouTube, then you might have heard of new social networking site Twitter.

So what is it all about?

Well to put it in computer-speak it’s a social network that you can use for microblogging. Put simply you join – it’s free - and you can then post to any everyone on Twitter.

Anyone can set up a profile for themselves or their business and start tweeting.

And when you’re on Twitter you can follow other people including celebrities and sporting personalities.

People can follow you too, which means they’ll receive your updates on their Twitter timeline.

Like Facebook, YouTube and Linkedin, businesses are now using Twitter to market, sell and communicate to customers.

And BMC have jumped on the Twitter bandwagon – check the college library’s profile BelfastMetLib. Happy tweeting!

As part of the Engineers Make It Happen campaign, the Nuffield Foundation, in Partnership with the Engineering and Technology Board, has launched a scheme of Engineering Bursaries to provide funded placements for enthusiastic and motivated further education students.

The students participated in work placements in the industry over a four to six week period and received a bursary of £80 per week.

Towards the end of the programme students completed a simple report as a condition of their award, about what they did during the Bursary, including photographs.

Students who submit a report that meets the quality standard of the Engineering and Technology Board within two weeks of completing their Bursaries, will receive a £200 cash prize from the Engineering and Technology Board.

Four of the students are completing a National Diploma in Manufacturing Engineering and did their placement with Bombardier and one was placed in Adream Solutions and is studying a National Diploma BMC Student Lee Erwin receives his certificate from Victor Jordan, Campaign in Communications Technology.

Manager NI, The Engineering and Technology Board.

30 HEALTH & FITNESS

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

Breast Cancer AWARENESS MONTH APPROXIMATELY three women are diagnosed with breast cancer every day in Northern Ireland and around five men every year. Even though it is rare in women under 35, with less than 20 cases diagnosed every year, it is still important to be breast aware. The Ulster Cancer Foundation has teamed up with CLASS to produce a self-check guide that you can keep, or pass onto a parent or friend, because early detection provides the best chance of survival.

Top Tips

Get Involved

Think Pink! Calendar of Events Clarins Make-up Masterclass, Tuesday October 20 Join Claude Defresne (pictured), Clarins international make up designer and the team at Clarins Northern Ireland for a make up masterclass featuring the new collection ‘PALAZZO D’ORO’, in support of the Ulster Cancer Foundation and Clarins Beauty for Life Programme.

This event will take place at The Ivory restaurant, House of Fraser. Tickets £15, for more information please visit www.ulstercancer.org

¦Look and feel your breasts so you know what is normal for you ¦Don’t forget to check under the arms as well ¦If you find a change and are worried, talk it over with your doctor as soon as possible

Look for changes

Stand in front of a mirror with… ¦Arms at your sides ¦Arms raised or behind your head ¦Hands on hips with elbows forward and chest muscles tensed

Feel for changes

¦Feel your breasts while lying down or with a soapy hand when washing ¦Feel each breast in turn ¦Keep your fingers together and flat ¦Press firmly all over the entire breast and armpit ¦Squeeze your nipple and look for discharge

What should look out for?

I

¦A new change from what you are used to seeing or feeling ¦A new lump or thickening in either breast ¦A dimple or pucker in one of your breasts, which changes the shape ¦Nipple discharge, especially if blood stained

¦Any change in nipple shape or rash on the nipple ¦Persistent discomfort or pain in one or other breast ¦A new cluster of veins in part of your breast Remember nine out of breast lumps turn out to be harmless but every lump should be checked by a doctor.

Finding a cancer in its early stages means that you are more likely to need a simpler treatment and there is a better chance of recovery.

What should I do if I have a breast change?

The best thing you can do if you notice a change in your breast, no matter how small, is to make an appointment with your doctor to dis-

cuss your concerns.

If you need to have tests done your doctor will refer you to a symptomatic breast clinic.

You can also call the Ulster Cancer Foundation’s information and support helpline (0800 783 3339) and talk to one of their nurses.

Reduce Your Risk

You can reduce your risk of cancer by following these rules: ¦Being more physically active ¦Getting your five-a-day (berries and pruple are high in anti-oxidants) ¦Breast feeding ¦Limiting alcohol intake

ROGUE HAIR SUPPORTS ACTION BREAST CANCER GHD PINK NIGHT 5 NOVEMBER 5PM-9PM have your hair curled or styled in salon for a donation Also donate £1 or more for: A pink cupcake Glass of pink champagne A raffle ticket to win hair products, gift vouchers & more ALL DONATIONS GO TO ACTION BREAST CANCER

TOUCH. LOOK.CHECK Rogue Hair 48 Bradbury Place 028 9024 6162

Masquerade Event, Saturday October 31 Barnabys restaurant, 153 Ballyrobert Road, Ballyclare, is holding a spectacular masquerade event. Tickets cost £50 per person and includes a drink reception, 3-course meal and entertainment from comedy hypnotist Adrian Knight and the Rock Stewart Show Band. For tickets and more information please contact Barnabys Restaurant on 028 9335 4151 Pink Afternoon Tea, Every day in October, 2.30-5pm The Culloden Estate and Spa is serving Pink Afternoon Tea from 2.30pm everyday.It costs £25 per person, and £5 goes towards the campaign.

New Play unravels the Impact of Breast Cancer AS part of the Ulster Cancer Foundation’s (UCF) crusade against breast cancer, they will be showcasing the heartwarming play Unravelling the Ribbon to Belfast for the first time this month.

Showing in the Belvoir Players Studio Theatre from Thursday October 8 – Sunday October 10, Unravelling the Ribbon

tells the touching story of three women of different ages who help each other cope with the impact of breast cancer.

Tickets for Unravelling the Ribbon are available from Belvoir Players Studio Theatre, 94 Belvoir Drive, Belfast, BT8 7DT, Tel. 028 9049 1210 and cost £8 for adults and £6 concessions.

New weight loss site insults users A NEW weight loss website that inspires its users by insulting them has launched.

Dieters who visit the Weightnags site can sign up to have regular abusive messages sent to their email inboxes.

The service’s creators believe that overweight people need to encounter direct disapproval of their size before they will work hard to change their lifestyles.

Messages sent by the website include: “Face it, fatty, you need someone to bug you every 15 minutes, don’t you?”

Another reads: “You oughta lay off the buffet.”

Site owner Talmadge Boyd said: “If you haven’t heard, people spend billions of dollars to look prettier, feel younger and lose weight. All people really need is to be nagged.”

It is thought that more than 250 people signed up for the emails within two hours of the Weightnags launch last month.

For more information see www.weightnags.com.

Get in the Hoop!

HOLLYWOOD is famous for its fitness crazes, but Liv Tyler makes exercise fun with a hula hoop.

The Incredible Hulk actress said: “I recently got a hula hoop and it’s the best thing for getting into shape.

I put my favourite song on and hula hoop in every direction until the song is over and I’m all out of breath. It’s really fun.”

And she isn’t the only one shaping up with the hoop, bootylicious babe Beyonce and Michelle Obama are both reported fans.

Hula hooping strengthens the waist, hips and knees while burning off unwanted fat around the midriff. And to tone the muscles of the arms just roll the hula hoop around your arm in circular motion.

Hula hooping also increases the flow of blood to the brain and is more reviving than a short nap.

Coffee…

Good for you?

COFFEE and college have gone hand in hand for decades – what can fuel latenight cramming sessions so effectively?

But excessive coffee use has often been associated with health warnings including dehydration, high blood pressure and cholesterol.

But new research has shed some light on the benefits of coffee consumption with surprising results.

According to extensive US studies, coffee drinkers are 50 per cent less likely to get liver cancer than non-drinkers. Further studies have shown that drinkers are also less likely to contract colon, breast and rectal cancer.

Also heavy coffee drinkers may be half as likely to get diabetes as light drinkers or non-drinkers as coffee contains chemicals that lower blood sugar. A coffee habit may also increase your resting metabolism rate, which could help keep diabetes at bay.

Research has shown that coffee can protect men, but not women, against Parkinson’s disease. One possible explanation for the sex difference may be that estrogen and caffeine need the same enzymes to be metabolized, and estrogen captures those enzymes.

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

GIANT STEPS BELFAST Giants have thrown their weight behind Unite Against Hate campaign this week.

The ice hockey team have joined the Irish Football Association (IFA) and Gaelic Athletics Association (GAA) as well as a host of Northern Ireland celebrities in backing the initiative.

Unite Against Hate, a multi-agency driven initiative seeking to challenge notions of prejudice and hate. The campaign highlights all six forms of hate crime including homophobia, racism, sectarianism and transphobia as well as prejudices based around a persons faith or disability and challenges everyone in Northern Ireland to

unite to stop it.

Giants forward Sean McMorrow said: “In order for us all to stand together we must unite against hate crime.

“The Unite Against Hate campaign is a very important cause for the Belfast Giants. There are no boundaries on our team, everyone works to-

gether and is an equal member of the team.”

Converse Model Rachel Murphy, 19, who is pictured with the Belfast Giants, also backs the campaign.

“As a young person I feel the Unite Against Hate initiative is extremely important for Northern

Ireland,” she said.

“Any form of discrimination is wrong and it should not be tolerated. We must come together and stop hate crime.”

The campaign anthem is the Michael Jackson hit Man in the Mirror, which has been produced

by International DJ and music producer Micky Modelle and recorded by Belfast singer Peter Corry.

Over the coming months, the public will have the chance to show support for the campaign by participating in a range of diversity events.

To support of find out further details about the campaign and planned events visit www.uniteagainsthate.org.uk or join our Facebook group.

Deep RiverRock renews sponsorship for Marathon DEEP RiverRock has renewed its title sponsorship of the Belfast City Marathon for another three years.

A record-breaking 17,500 people took part in last year’s marathon and organisers are hoping to smash that record again in 2010.

Danny O’Connor, Chairman of the Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon Organising Committee said: “We have gone from strength to strength over the past six years, with our entry numbers increasing every year.”

Tara O’ Rourke, Senior Brand Manager with Deep RiverRock water, is delighted that the brand was renewing its partnership with one of Northern Ireland’s premier sporting events.

She said: “We are delighted that Deep RiverRock is supporting the Belfast City Marathon as Title Sponsor for the fourth consecutive year. This Marathon is a wellestablished event and we continue to work closely with the Marathon organisers to build on the success of previous years.

“It is fantastic that the race attracts world class athletes to Belfast along with inspiring so many local people to be active, whilst raising much needed funds for extremely worthwhile charities.”

The two official nominated charities for the 2010 event are Concern Worldwide and Marie Curie Cancer Care.

For further information, including online entry, log on to www. belfastcitymarathon.com

SPORT 31

BMC Ladies compete at WSCAI Futsal tournamenT BELFAST Met Ladies travelled to Limerick last season to compete in a Futsal tournament organised by the Women’s Soccer Colleges Association of Ireland.

Competing against universities from the

Republic of Ireland, the Belfast girls topped their group without dropping a point and made it to the semi-finals.

Competing against the tournament favourites, the girls were confident but were

pipped to the post by the University of Limerick, who took a double lead. BMC narrowed the score line, but Limerick’s larger squad, they finished off the match 3-1. Limerick went onto win the tournament.

What is Futsal?

Futsal is FIFA’s version of indoor five-a-side football. It uses a special reduced rebound Futsal ball, smaller goals and touchlines so the ball can go out of play. Futsal has been designed to provide a high paced, energetic, fast flowing game for spectators at the same time as allowing players to at the most creative by protecting those showing attacking fair.

Some of the world’s greatest players past and present have attributed their skill to Futsal – Pele, Socrates, Ronaldinho, Maradona, Kaka to name a few.

Interested in joining a team? Contact Sports Development Officer, Glenn on 028 9026 5238 or email gbarr@ Belfastmet.ac.uk

32 SPORT SPORTS ROUND UP WELL it was an exciting year for Belfast Metropolitan College sport.

Not only did student Claire Nelson retain the Ulster schools table tennis cup but she joined a host of other students at the Sport Awards, presented to BMC high achievers.

The winners (pictured) are Paddy McNeice, Tyrone Minors All-Ireland winners; Claire Carson, Northern Ireland Ladies; Kyle Hewitt, basketball; Davide Messina, basketball; Barry McKevitt, Armagh Minor GAA; Amy Irwin, International Ice Skater; Orman Okunyia, Irish League footballer; Niall Kerr, Armagh Minor GAA; James Simpson, Irish international and Ulster rugby ; Sean og O’Neil, Antrim Minor GAA and Northern Ireland U21s International; Josh Donaldson, Ulster Rugby and Curtis Stewart, Ulster Rugby.

The men’s GAA football team have played in the prestigious Seigersons Cup twice since forming only a few

CLASS ISSUE 06 OCTOBER 2009

WITH GLENN BARR

SPORT DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

years ago, resulting in defeats by Maynooth and Dundalk IT. In both games the boys punched above their weight, which was a credit to them as being one of the only colleges to play in the competition.

For the first time ever basketball featured highly in the sporting calen-

dar, competing in Varsities at Queens PEC against strong opposition they gave a good account for themselves and are looking forward to varsities next year in Galway.

Looking ahead to the new term, the men’s football team have gone from strength to strength with an unprecedented amount of top level footballers signing up to play the college team.

This year BMC men’s football team will be competing in the CFAI league (Colleges Football Association of Ireland).

This league is more prestigious plus there’s the added bonus of playing in the Umbro Cup competitions.

The ladies football team will also be competing for silverware in the Women’s College’s Football Association of Ireland for the fist time in the College’s history.

This year BMC will hold the Inter College Futsal Tournament and NIFutsal.com was on hand to show the boys the rules of the five-a-side game.

BMC Ladies victory over Queen’s Belfast Met Ladies FC Queens Ladies

6 0

BELFAST Met Ladies FC sailed to victory against Queen’s Ladies at the Dub playing fields.

The BMC girls dominated the game from the start, leaving the Queen’s team deflated, out-skilled and beat for pace all over the pitch.

Opening the score was Northern Ireland International Demi Vance, lobbing the keeper from a tight angle on the by line. With Nicola Carlin and another of Belfast Met’s international stars Nadene Caldwell, dominating the centre of the park, Queen’s Ladies could only play catch-up.

Ashley McIlwaine lashed onto a curling cross from Pauline Larkin to put the Met 2 up.

With this second goal BMC started to play more possession football leaving the home side wondering what had hit them.

Demi Vance soon made it 3 and then Rachael Crumie made it 4 with lovely link up play with Samantha Fleming.

The second half started slowly as Queen’s introduced some new faces, however BMC’s strong back line fought the opposition.

Gemma Quigley outmanoeuvred the Queen’s midfield with a defence splitting pass to let striker Alex Dance in to finish off the home side. A sixth goal from Nicola Carlin finished the game and Queen’s Ladies.