The Gist Issue 6, March 2010

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk

06 _Issue _Vol 5

first! t s i G e h in t Read it

E: INSID

ed! l a e v e R s r e Headlin

06 _Issue l 5 _Vo

_Issue 06 _Vol 5 Designed & produced by Leeds University Union.

To contribute to the Gist please email: thegist@luu.leeds.ac.uk.

Features:

5 Rate your Union Find out the results

6-8 Summer Ball

The line-up and how to get a ticket

9 Leeds Year of Volunteering

Every Month:

4 & 23 News

‘I Love My Personal Tutor’ Award, St Patrick’s Day and more

10-11 Fairtrade Fortnight

Join in the Big Swap

10 Referendum

The motions are announced

12 Neighbourhood Watch and UCRs 14 Changing how we create Change The democratic review

ONLINE

Get extended news stories and the latest news online. Visit www.leeds universityunion.org.uk/thegist.

What’s On Listings:

22 Ask Maddie

Looking at University Cuts and how they affect you

15-22 The List

The ultimate guide to what’s on in your union; this month’s list covers events throughout March.

2 The Gist

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

So the countdown to the Summer Ball has officially begun and we’ve only gone and got Florence and the Machine for all you lucky revellers! The Leeds Summer Ball is officially the biggest (and best!) in the country, so make sure you get your tickets in early!

This March, we’re all about spreading some goodness at LUU - why not nominate your personal tutor for an ‘I Love My Personal Tutor’ award, buy some goodies during Fairtrade Fortnight or volunteer in your local area?

Madeleine Harris Smith Welfare Officer The Gist 3

News.

ONLINE

Get extended news stories and the latest news online. Visit www.leeds universityunion.org.uk/thegist.

Get up to date: www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

Personalised Hoodies from Gear Gear can now personalise any hoodie, t-shirt, jumper or other item from the in-store range.

The Results Are In

They’ll design and personalise items especially for your society, department, sporting event or any special occasion.

Delivery times are just two weeks, with a minimum order quantity of 12 pieces per design and colour.

Speak to a member of staff in store to get a quote today!

Every December we carry out the Rate Your Union survey. The results of the survey are really important to us, telling us what we’re doing well and where we need to improve.

This year you told us that: It’s St Patrick’s Day on March 17th; join us to celebrate it!

Throughout the day there’ll be Irish themed fun on the Terrace and in the Old Bar, but the partying won’t end

The ‘I love my personal tutor’ awards honour the impact personal tutors have on your time at university.

If your tutor goes the extra mile to give you help and support, here’s your chance to give them the recognition they deserve.

4 The Gist

there. Head down to our St. Patricks Day party in Stylus and Pulse – there’s free entry from 10pm and £1.50 drinks offers running all night.

close on 21st April. Submit your nomination at www.leedsuniversityunion .org.uk/ ilvemypersonaltutor.

The awards recognise and reward individual contributions as well as celebrating the success of schools that are consistent in their dedication to students.

91%

85%

rate the Union either good or excellent

feel that it is easy to join a club or society

84%

69%

feel that the Union is contributing positively to their university experience

feel that they are kept sufficiently informed about what the Union is doing

46%

say that the Union contributed to their decision to study at Leeds

Disagree?

If there’s something you think we’re doing badly, or an area you want to see improvement in, let us know.

Your Comments is a really easy way to send us your feedback. Use the comment cards in the Info Point or send us your feedback online at www.leedsuniversity union.org.uk/yourcom ments.

We guarantee a response to all feedback received.

26% of students have a paid term-time job 49% of students have a paid out of term-time job 33% are concerned about current debt 42% are concerned about future debt

Nominations are open from 1st March and will

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

The Gist 5

FRIDAY 4TH JUNE 2010_ LOTHERTON HALL Officially the UK’s Biggest Student Ball The Leeds Summer Ball is the biggest student ball event in the UK On Friday 4th June, thousands of party-goers will gather in the grounds of the Lotherton Hall Estate, on the outskirts of Leeds.

The Ball takes place over four massive arenas, each with state-of-the-art production and lighting, along with the headline acts you’d expect at the biggest event of its kind. There’s a real summer festival atmosphere, making it the perfect end to your year, or even your time at university.

There’s also a free funfair, bars and food stalls to keep you entertained as you party through the night, plus plenty of seating and hard flooring walkways between all arenas to keep you comfortable.

6 The Gist

Line-Up Revealed Here!

The Leeds Summer Ball line-up never disappoints, but this year it’s better than ever Winner of best album at this year’s Brit Awards, Florence and the Machine take the coveted top spot, looking set to deliver a first class performance just perfect for a warm summer evening.

Erol Alkan take the top spot in the Wax:On arena, guaranteeing to keep things loud and dirty.

With four arenas and over 9,000 ball goers, the Summer Ball isn’t about just one headline act though...

To find out who else will be keeping you dancing until 6am, see the line-up poster on page 23. A complete list is available at www. leedssummerball.com.

That’s why we’ve also got Leeds indie quartet The Sunshine Underground who are on form following the release of their second album.

Every arena has a full line-up to keep you going through the night.

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

The Gist 7

No stock photos this time!

Gardeners for Bardon Grange

Behind the scenes of the Summer Ball 2010 photo shoot

Bardon Grange allotment project is a volunteer-led community project at the Bardon Grange allotments near Oxley Halls. Volunteers can come down and get stuck in with some gardening to grow their own fruit and vegetables!

No experience necessary, just some free time on a Wednesday afternoon.

Get your Tickets The Summer Ball launch event takes place in the Terrace from 9pm on Tuesday 16th March.

At midnight we’ll be starting the ticket sales, with 500 Golden Tickets going on sale. At the priority price of £37, a Golden Ticket will secure you access to any carriage without queuing – no need to decide your carriage time in advance!

Tickets go on general sale from Wednesday 17th March at the priority price of £37.

Get yours from www. leedssummerball.com, the Info Point in the Leeds University Union Building or the Met Bar in Leeds Met Student’s’ Union.

From 20th March, you can buy tickets at the standard price of £42 from www.leedssum merball.com, the Info Point (midday-3pm only), CATS, or the Met Bar. The most popular carriage times sell out fast, so book your ticket early to guarantee arriving at the Ball at the time of your choice.

8 The Gist

English Teaching Assistants For the first time ever, the faces of the Summer Ball 2010 are some of Leeds’ very own students.

Three lovely ladies and four handsome chaps volunteered their time on a chilly overcast day in October to produce, what we think are the best Summer Ball images to date.

After patiently waiting for a day with some decent weather, the models, along with an entourage of LUU staff and the photographer, made their way over to the chosen location.

The shoot took place just outside of Leeds in the wild and overgrown Adel Woods - perfect for an afternoon ramble, but not so much for those in suits and ball gowns!

As the hours passed, the sky grew darker and cloudier, and hopes of getting those killer shots we were after started to fade. But then something amazing happened! Through the clouds came the rays of the setting sun, providing the perfect setting we’d started

STAR is a national network campaigning for the rights of refugees and asylum seekers while offering practical support like English classes. If you’ve got good English language skills, you can help teach classes.

to think we’d never see!

This year’s material displays a more real and honest image of the Summer Ball than the stock images used in previous years, representing friends, fun, celebration, end of year (and for some the end of an era), which is what the Summer Ball is all about.

Thanks go to the models who took part in the shoot, both for volunteering their time and for braving the October weather while dressed for summer!

See all the Behind the Scenes images Visit the Summer Ball 2010 Facebook group for all the behind-the-scenes photos.

Be part of Summer Ball 2011!

If you fancy yourself as a model for next year’s Summer Ball promotions, we will be advertising on the Union’s website: www. leedsuniversityunion.org.uk and in the fortnightly emails in Term 3.

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

Electrical Equipment Testers for Green Streets

Leeds Year of Volunteering Have you started yet?

2010 is Leeds Year of Volunteering, have you thought about getting involved?

With a different theme each month, the campaign is working to celebrate the excellent volunteering work that goes on in Leeds, as well as encouraging more people to get started. www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

The theme during March is ‘Volunteering in every neighbourhood’, highlighting the range of opportunities for involvement on your own doorstep.

See the box on the right to read about some of the local projects you could support.

Green Streets is a volunteer-led project that works in the community to encourage students and the local community to reduce, reuse and recycle. The Green Streets team are looking for two people to join the team as PAT testers.

You’ll get trained and tested as a PAT (Portable Appliance Testing) tester and volunteer over June and July, the busy student changeover period.

To get involved with any of these projects, email iwanttovolunteer@leeds. ac.uk.

The Gist 9

REFERENDUM The closing date for motions has now passed, and the issues you’ll be voting on in the next referendum have been revealed.

The Referendum takes place twice each year and the forthcoming vote gives you your second chance of the year to voice your opinions on the issues your fellow students feel should be up for debate.

The online ballot boxes will be open for one week beginning 21st April, so there’s plenty of time to read up on the issues you’ll be voting on - go to www. leedsuniversityunion.org. uk/referenda to read the motions in full.

1. Should LUU adopt Jack Straw as its first honorary president?

2. Should LUU commit to

4. Should we improve the

democratic system at LUU?

5.

Should LUU oppose both spending cuts and industrial action that harms the education of students?

6. Should LUU expand the current facilities of the Peanut Gallery?

7. Should the LUU

Advertising Policy be amended to better support student activity groups?

8. Should LUU support

university staff and their trade unions in legitimate strategies they employ to defend our education and oppose cuts?

9. Should LUU confirm the

change the name of the show that broadcast on Monday 12-1 (LSRFM.com) from ‘Loose Men’ to ‘Loose Men 2.0’?

reducing the edible waste from its shops and restaurants by not throwing it in the bin but by donating it, or not over ordering it in the first place?

10. Should the LUU reverse

3. Should LUU close down

from NUS?

the ‘Peanut Gallery’ and replace it with a service which benefits all its members?

10 The Gist

The Bottled Water Ban We no longer sell bottled water in Union shops You might have noticed that something’s changed in the drinks refrigerators in Essentials and Extras recently: still bottled water is no longer being sold.

That’s because you voted in support of a motion to make the change and reduce the environmental impact of LUU. By replacing bottled water with water fountains (and selling a wide range of refillable drinks bottles) we’re set to save over half a million litres of water each year as well as 20,000 tonnes of oil. We’ll also be saving you money too.

This is a great example of the kind of change that can be brought about through the Referendum.

the ban on bottled water and give students the choice?

Don’t forget Mother’s Day!

Sunday 14th March is Mother’s Day, so don’t forget to pop a card in the post. We’ve got a great selection of cards and gifts available in CATs that are perfect for the occasion.

Spring Craft Afternoon

Pop in to the Emmanuel Centre on Thursday 18th March from midday to 5.00pm for an afternoon of spring crafts. There are Easter goodies to make and all are welcome. Email c.ryder@leeds.ac.uk for more information.

LUU Dance Show

Bringing together performers from many of Leeds University Union’s dance societies, the LUU Dance Show is a must-see event.

The show runs from 17th -20th March in the Riley Smith Hall, email ugm5cnj@leeds.ac.uk for more information.

Next Issue:

07 _Issue 5 _Vol

Celebrate Special

Celebrating LUU’s Student Activity Groups & more.

11. Should LUU disaffiliate Motions correct at time of writing but are subject to approval.

Out 16.04.10! www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

Neighbourhood Watch Twelve Neighbourhood Watch Student Coordinators (NWSCs) are now in place across the community, helping prevent students from becoming a victim of crime. They are also there to offer support and guidance if you do become a victim of crime.

We are now recruiting for the next academic year, so if you’re interested, email iwanttovolunteer@ luu.leeds.ac.uk with the subject “Get me involved in Neighbourhood Watch!”

The NWSCs act as a link between students, police and permanent residents living in Leeds. This is the first scheme of this sort in the country, so a lot of the NWSCs’ actions are based on your feedback, whether you’re a Leeds student or resident.

UCR Recruitment

Want to make your community a better place? Want the support to help you do it?

Union Community Representatives are recruited every year, each covering their own dedicated residential area around Leeds. UCRs act as a contact point for both students and local residents wanting to give feedback, ask questions or report problems.

As a UCR you will work to improve communication and understanding between LUU members and more settled Leeds residents and

community groups, supporting members in the community with issues such as safety and security, housing and the environment. By consulting with residents you’ll be able to affect positive change, and guide LUU’s volunteering projects to target community needs.

We’ll be recruiting UCRs for next year in May. Go to www. leedsuniversityunion. org.uk/

The Gist 11

Fairt

rade Ben & Je rr y’s

Fairtrade

£3.50

e traed r i a F Win

l o al f t p u of 20%

Organic Beer

NEW! Fairtrade

Ubuntu Cola

Fairtrad e

70p

Cookies

50p

Fairtrad e Coffee

£1.50

Fa

65p 45g 0 £1.2 g 0 10

Ubuinrtrade tu Co la

50p

rade Faiarntanas B

20p

22ND FEB TO 7TH MARCH

Fair D trad C ivine e hoc o

up t late 20% o off

12 The Gist

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

For this year during Fairtrade Fortnight we’re asking everyone to join us in The Big Swap.

than ever to choose Fairtrade. Union Books also stock a great selection of Fairtrade gifts.

For two whole weeks we want you to switch to Fairtrade when shopping in the Union. Essentials and Extras have introduced over 60 new Fairtrade products and are now stocking 70% more Fairtrade products than in 2008, so it’s easier

Switch your usual bananas for Fairtrade bananas, your usual chocolate for Fairtrade chocolate, and your usual cuppa for a Fairtrade cuppa. Whenever you pop to Leeds University Union, whether you’re buying wine in the Terrace

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

or a drink from Essentials, you can use your wallet to start making a difference.

The Fairtrade Foundation want as many swaps as possible made, one million and one in fact. Producers in the developing world deserve a fairer deal for their work and produce, so swap today.

The Gist 13

Changing

What’s On Listings: Your monthly rundown to what’s on in your union.

Listings split by categories below!

06 _Issue 5 _Vol

how we create

Change We’re your union, which means you make the big decisions – whether that be through voting in referenda or electing representatives to act on your behalf.

It’s important that the democratic process we have in place works, and that it’s trusted. Student feedback has raised a number of concerns with the current model, so we’ve undertaken the democratic review, resulting in a new model being proposed.

The new model is currently only a proposal, you’ll be able to have your say on it by voting in the Referendum after Easter.

If it gets voted in, the new model will be implemented at the start of the next academic year.

Learn more about the Democratic Review on the Have Your Say page of the LUU website.

Read the referendum motion online at: www.leedsuniversityunion. org.uk/referenda.

14 The Gist

Why is change being considered?

We’ve gathered feedback from thousands of you on our democratic process, through the stategic review, democratic workshops, student surveys and a study by the Institute of Communications studies.

The responses received suggested a number of problems with the current democratic model, ranging from a lack of engagement with the issues students had most concern about, to a perception of the system benefitting personal ambitions, not members.

How would a new system address these problems?

Our research asked you how you felt the system could be improved, and allowed us to generate a proposal for a new, better model.

The proposed system would replace the single Union Council with three separate forums, each dealing with a specific area (Better Union, Better University and Better Leeds).

We hope that giving each group its own area of responsibility will result in a more focused agenda with more achievable aims.

When forums meet, a demographically representative sample of the student body will be financially incentivised to participate.The reps on each panel are there to stimulate, inform and support this discussion. Following such deliberation, the student participants will be asked to express their views and, when necessary, take part in a vote.

How would decisions be made?

In order to pass a proposal, a three-quarters majority would be necessary. If either the panel or the reps fail to attain a three-quarters majority (yes or no), then the proposal would be referred to referendum.

Once a proposal is passed, either by the forum or at referendum, it will become policy and the Student Executive will work on its implementation, reporting their progress at future councils as with the current system.

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

Wednesday 17th March St Patrick’s Day in the Union Building

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day all day in the Old Bar and Terrace with some great offers and Irish themed fun!

Carry on the party to Stylus for the St. Paddy’s Day Party!

Listing Categories

Use the categories below to find out What’s On. Bars & Nightlife Music, Film & Performance

Summer Ball 2010: Tickets on SALE 17.03.10 Priority price tickets will be available from Wednesday 17th March, 9.30am, to final year students only. From Thursday 18th to Friday 19th March, 9.30am, priority price tickets will then be on sale to all students from all years of study. www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

Normal price tickets go on sale from Saturday 20th March at midnight while stocks last.

Information Point, Union Building, and online at www. leedssummerball.com. £37 Priority Price/ £42 Normal Price

General Interest Society & Club Listings Give it a Go Listings Information & Support Democracy & Campaigns

Stay up to date with What’s On...

Please note that all listings published are subject to change, please check www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/ whatson for latest updates.

The Gist 15

Bars & Nightlife from the ‘80s, ‘90s and ‘00s.

10.30pm to 3.00am Mine, Union Building Free

Friday 12th March

Summer Ball Ticket Launch: Golden Tickets On SALE Tuesday 16th March

This year we are releasing 500 golden tickets exclusively at our launch event in the Terrace from 9.00pm on Tuesday 16th March. Golden Ticket holders are allowed access to any carriage at any time and may waltz onto any carriage without having to queue. Golden tickets are priced £37 and will only be on sale at this event.

10.00pm to 2.00am, Terrace, Union Building, Free

Wednesday 3rd March Society Wednesdays Book a space in the Terrace for your society.

9.00pm to 12.30am Terrace, Union Building

Thursday 4th March Shoop!

Funky soul and motown.

10.30pm to 3.00am Mine, Union Building Free

Friday 5th March Freshly Squeezed Warm-up to the biggest student night in the country.

9.00pm to 1.30am Terrace, Union Building, Free

16 The Gist

Fruity Safari Party 10.30pm to 3.30am Stylus, Pulse and Mine, Union Building £4.50 adv. / £5 on the door

Saturday 6th March Metropolis with Subfocus, DJ Hype & more 10.30pm to 5.00am Stylus, Pulse, Mine and Terrace, Union Building £16.25 adv.

Pent:House House and electro night.

10.00pm to 1.30am Terrace, Union Building Free

Sunday 7th March Chillax Chill out in the Terrace with half

price pool and free poker tables.

12.00 noon to 11.30pm Terrace, Union Building

Tuesday 9th March Fresh Jive presents Gift of Gab 7.00pm to 11.00pm Mine, Union Building £9.25

Wednesday 10th March Society Wednesdays Book a space in the Terrace for your society.

9.00pm to 12.30am Terrace, Union Building

Thursday 11th March Pop-A-Razzi The best pop hits

Freshly Squeezed Warm-up to the biggest student night in the country.

9.00pm to 1.30am Terrace, Union Building Free Fruity Skins Party with Lily Loveless & Megan Prescott (Naomi & Katie) 10.30pm to 3.30am Stylus, Pulse and Mine, Union Building £4.50 adv. / £5 on the door

Saturday 13th March Pent:House House and electro night.

10.00pm to 1.30am Terrace, Union Building Free Central Beatz Drum n bass and dubstep.

10.00pm to 4.00am Mine, Union Building Free Brighton Beach ‘60s mod and soul.

11.00pm to 3.00am Stylus and Pulse, Union Building £5.75 adv.

Tuesday 16th March The Summer Ball Launch: Exclusive!

Grab your Golden Ticket for the Summer Ball

At midnight on Tuesday 16th March, we will be releasing 500 ‘Golden Tickets’ for this year’s Summer Ball. These ‘Golden Tickets’ are available to anyone who wants to come to the ball and are priced at the priority price of £37. Golden tickets will allow you to queue jump and hop on any coach you desire on the night of the Summer Ball.

From 9.30pm, Tickets on sale from 12.00pm midnight to 2.00am, Terrace & Information Point, Union Building

Wednesday 17th to Saturday 20th March Summer Ball tickets go on sale!

From 9.30am Information Point, Union Building, and www. leedssummerball. com Magic and Impossibility Presented by the School of Performance and Cultural Industries 7.30pm to 11.00pm Stage One, Stage@ Leeds, £9.00 adv. / £7 concession

Wednesday 17th March Society Wednesdays Book a space in the Terrace for your society.

9.00pm to 12.30am Terrace, Union Building

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

St Patrick’s Day across Leeds University Union Celebrate St Patrick’s Day at Leeds University Union. Find a selection of Free Guinness Hats in the Terrace and Old Bar as well as many Irish drink offers.

All Day Terrace & Old Bar, Union Building, Free St Patrick’s Day Party!

Continue the St Paddy’s Day celebrations in this special oneoff free party in Stylus. Dance like a Leprecharn and enjoy special drinks offers available.

From 10.00pm,

Stylus, Union Building, Free

Thursday 18th March Top Gun Power ballads, soft rock, ‘80s & ‘90s pop.

10.00pm to 3.00am Mine, Union Building Free

Friday 19th March Freshly Squeezed Warm-up to the biggest student night in the country.

9.00pm to 1.30am Terrace, Union Building Free

Fruity: Easter Egg Hunt 10.30pm to 3.30am Stylus, Pulse and Mine, Union Building £4 adv. / £5 on the door

Saturday 20th March Summer Ball normal-priced tickets on sale Officially the best way to start your summer! www. leedssummerball. com £42 including Travel The Wendy House Leeds’ friendliest party.

9.00pm to 2.30am, Stylus and Pulse, Union Building £5.25 adv.

Pent:House House and electro night.

10.00pm to 1.30am Terrace, Union Building Free

Sunday 21st March Chillax Half price pool and free poker tables.

12.00 noon to 11.30pm Terrace, Union Building

Wednesday 24th March Society Wednesdays Book a space in the Terrace for your society.

9.00pm to 12.30am Terrace,

Music, Film & Performance Thursday 4th March Finley Quaye plus support 7.00pm to 11.00pm Stylus, Union Building, £13.50 adv.

Monday 8th March The XX Atmospheric English indie pop

Union Building

Friday 26th March

Freshly Squeezed 9.00pm to 1.30am Terrace, Union Building Free Fruity 10.30pm to 3.30am Stylus, Pulse and Mine, Union Building £4 adv. / £5 on the door

Saturday 27th March Pent:House House and electro night 10.00pm to 1.30am Terrace, Union Building Free

www. unit1421. co.uk

quartet The XX formed in London in 2008. See them in Stylus.

7.00pm to 11.00pm Stylus, Union Building, £12.50

Monday 19th April Alphabeat Stylus, Union Building 7.00am to 11.00pm £13.50 adv,

www. leedstickets .com

Buy tickets for all gigs and events from www.leedstickets. com. Sign up to the newsletter for latest news and confirmed gigs.

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

Finley Quaye plus Support Thursday 4th March

Maverick, now there’s an overused word. Restless Finley Quaye fits the bill perfectly with a multifaceted, multiethnic catalogue of music that somehow mashes pure pop to the underground. He reached the UK Top 20 twice with “Sunday Shining”, and “Even After All”. Quaye is readying several albums and individually prepared for release in 2010. Don’t miss this opportunity to see him in Stylus!

7.00pm to 11.00pm, Stylus, Union Building, £13.50 adv

The Gist 17

General Interest

WHAT’S YOUR

FAIRTRADE SWAP?

Clubs & Societies Fairtrade Fortnight

Advertise your events here.

Monday 22nd February to Sunday 7th March

Want to advertise your events in the Gist? Content deadlines for the Gist are 3 weeks before each issue comes out at the end of the month, so be sure to email your development co-ordinator your events before then.

A good opportunity to encourage you to think about where your food comes from and how you can help people in poorer countries. This years big theme is the ‘BIG SWAP’ trying you to try fair trade as a replacement for your regular goods, why not give it a go? Essentials will be having up to 10% off selected Fair Trade products during these two weeks.

Throughout the Bars and Retail outlets in the Union Building.

Monday 1st March

Burton Gallery, University of Leeds

Sunday 14th March

national day in Northern Ireland.

Sunday 28th March

Action AGM This is your chance to get involved in the running of action! Food is provided.

6.00pm to 9.00pm Conference Room, ARC

Tuesday 9th March

Mother’s Day Don’t forget your mum this Mother’s Day – pop into Cats for great cards and gifts.

Friday 19th March

Palm Sunday (Christian Festival) Christian celebration of the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. The day begins Holy Week. It is observed by worship celebrations and parades using palm branches.

St David’s Day (Patron Saint of Wales) Celebrated in Wales in honour of Dewi Sant or St David, the patron saint of Wales.

Many Welsh people wear a daffodil which is a national emblem of Wales.

Holi (Festival of Colours) Hindu spring festival.

Wednesday 3rd March 3D scanning of cultural heritage: ‘experiences at National Museums’ Talk by Martin Cooper, followed by public discussion and reception.

6.00pm to 8.00pm Stanley & Audrey

18 The Gist

Commonwealth Day People use the day to promote understanding about global issues, international cooperation and the work of the modern Commonwealth.

Each year there is a different theme. The Queen will attend a special service in Westminster Abbey.

Friday 12th March Contemporary Artists’ Book Fair 13th annual international artists’ book fair.

11.00am to 6.00pm Parkinson Court

Saturday 13th March Contemporary Artists’ Book Fair 13th annual international artists’ book fair.

10.00am to 5.00pm Parkinson Court

Simnel Sunday The fourth Sunday in Lent when Simnel cakes are eaten.

Tuesday 16th March Alan Davie Art Exhibition Opening Night A snapshot of the artistic career of Alan Davie, former Gregory Fellow in Painting at the University of Leeds, 1957-59. This exhibition runs until 5th June.

6.00pm to 8.00pm Stanley & Audrey Burton Gallery, University of Leeds

Wednesday 17th March St Patrick’s Day (Patron Saint of Ireland) The church festival of St. Patrick is regarded as

Term 2 Ends

Saturday 20th March Spring begins ‘Vernal (or spring) equinox’. Around March 20th or 21st, the sun shines directly on the equator and the length of day and night are nearly equal in all parts of the world.

Sunday 21st March ‘I love My Personal Tutor’ awards – Nominations Close Nominate a personal tutor who you feel has been exceptionally supportive or offered significant assistance during your time at university. www. leedsuniversity union.org.uk/ilove my personaltutor

Monday 1st March Action AGM This is your chance to get involved in the running of action! Food is provided.

6.00pm to 9.00pm Conference Room, ARC Tajweed Classes for Sisters Open to anyone interested in seeking knowledge with the goal to

recite the holy Quran in the correct manner.

6.30pm to 8.00pm Baines Wing SR 2.16, University of Leeds

Tuesday 2nd March CMF Cake Givea-way Ask a Christian a question and get a free cake.

1.00pm to 2.00pm Worsley Building, Level 7, University of Leeds

Persian Classes Get to know more about Iran and learn the Persian language, all levels of ability are welcome!

6.30pm to 9.00pm Baines Wing SR 1.14, University of Leeds £15 (For 5 sessions) adv. Refundable should you wish to quit at any point.

Wednesday 3rd March

British Summer Time Begins (clocks go forward 1 hour)

Tuesday 30th March First Day of Passover Passover marks the Israelites’ liberation from slavery and their exodus from Egypt around 3,000 years ago. Passover lasts for eight days in the UK.

Monday 19th April Term 3 Begins Don’t forget to pick up the next issue of the Gist!

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

‘Isn’t Christianity just for killjoys?’

Short talk with a free lunch 12.00 noon to 1.00pm Location TBC

Thursday 4th March Milad Al-Nabi (Birthday of the Prophet) Celebrate the birthday of the Prophet of Islam 6.30pm to 10.00pm

Saturday 6th March Buddhist Meditation Day retreat A joint day retreat between LUU Buddhist Meditation society and a beginners’ course at FWBO Leeds Buddhist Centre 10.00am to 4.00pm FWBO Leeds Buddhist Centre, Leeds City Centre £30 suggested donation (waged) /£15 (low/ unwaged) LUU Sports Ball 2010 7.00pm to 1.00am The Queens Hotel, Leeds City Centre £30 adv.

Monday 8th February

LUU Sports Ball 2010 Saturday 6th March

Sport gets glam! Ticket includes: three-course meal, complimentary drinks, entry into prize raffle, and music and entertainment. Get your ticket now from the LUU Helpdesk.

7.00pm to 1.00am, The Queens Hotel, Leeds City Centre £30 adv.

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

Tajweed Classes for Sisters Open to anyone interested in seeking knowledge with the goal to recite the holy Quran in the correct manner.

6.30pm to 8.00pm Baines Wing SR 2.16, University of Leeds

Tuesday 9th March Persian Classes Get to know more about Iran and learn the Persian language, all levels of ability are welcome!

6.30pm to 9.00pm Baines Wing SR 1.14, University of Leeds £15 (For 5 sessions) adv. Refundable should you wish to quit at any point.

Monday 15th March Tajweed Classes for Sisters 6.30pm to 8.00pm Baines Wing SR 2.16, University of Leeds

Tuesday 16th March Persian Classes 6.30pm to 9.00pm Baines Wing SR 1.14, University of Leeds £15 (For 5 sessions) adv. Refundable should you wish to quit at any point.

Monday 22nd March Tajweed Classes for Sisters 6.30pm to 8.00pm Baines Wing SR 2.16, University of Leeds

Tuesday 23rd March Persian Classes 6.30pm to 9.00pm Baines Wing SR 1.14, University of Leeds £15 (For 5 sessions) adv. Refundable should you wish to quit at any point.

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Give it a Go Listings Tuesday 2nd March Tai Chi 5.00pm to 6.00pm Meeting Room 3, ARC £3

Trip to Stonehenge Friday 12th to Sunday 14th March

Join Pentagram Society on a trip to Stonehenge, where you will have access to the circle (usually restricted) and will be performing a small ritual at a sacred site nearby.

All are welcome.

Meet at the Parkinson Building steps, £50 (Transport and accommodation included)

Interfaith Panel Tuesday 16th March

The Atheist Society are holding an interfaith debate over the nature of ethics and morality. Come along to see whether all atheists are evil and whether religious ethics actually mean anything! Bring all those challenging questions and hopefully learn something new.

7.00pm to 9.00pm, Meeting Room 3, ARC, Union Building, Free

Monday 1st March Learn to Knit with Baa Ram Ewe: Tea Cosy No experience necessary! All materials provided.

4.00pm to 6.00pm Meeting Room 8, Union Building £10 Cabling Project with Baa Ram Ewe: 2 of 3

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Wilderness Medical Anyone with an interest in Altitude Medicine or who wants to know how to stay safe whilst skiing/ mountaineering come along!

7.00pm to 9.00pm Meeting Room 2, ARC £1 non-members

Wednesday 3rd March Volleyball Learn the basics!

12.00 noon to 2.00pm Gryphon Sports Centre, University of Leeds £1

Friday 5th March Indian Head Massage 5.00pm to 6.00pm Meeting Room 2, ARC £2

Saturday 6th March

6.00pm to 8.00pm Meeting Room 8, Union Building £30 for three sessions (must book all sessions)

Trip to Blackpool 8.30am to 8.30pm Meet at the Parkinson Building steps £15

Jewellery Making Materials purchased at session.

6.30pm to 8.00pm Resource Lounge, ARC £1 Earrings, £1.50 Bracelets, £2.50 Necklaces

Trip to the Lake District 9.00am to 7.30pm Meet at the Parkinson Building steps £17

Sunday 7th March

Buy & Book Sessions at the LUU Helpdesk Interested in attending a GIAG session? Book your place at the LUU Helpdesk (ground floor, Union building). Don’t forget to pick up a GIAG programme for full details on all these events!

Men and Ladies Tennis 12.00 noon to 2.00pm Weetwood Tennis Courts Free

Monday 8th February Learn to Knit with Baa Ram Ewe: Hat 4.00pm to 6.00pm Meeting Room 8, Union Building £10 Cabling Project with Baa Ram Ewe: 3 of 3 6.00pm to 8.00pm Meeting Room 8, Union Building £30 for three sessions (must book all sessions) Meditation Evening 6.00pm to 7.30pm Meeting Room 3, ARC £3

Tuesday 9th March Tai Chi 5.00pm to 6.00pm Conference Room, ARC £3 Soc Soc do Body Boggle

Come and have some fun!

8.00pm to 10.30pm Terrace, Union Building Free

Wednesday 10th March Suturing with Cutting Edge 4.00pm to 6.00pm Meeting Room 3, ARC Free

Thursday 11th March CV Workshop How extra-curricular activities make you the complete candidate.

1.00pm to 2.00pm Meeting Room 5, ARC Free Back and Head Massage Training 5.00pm to 7.00pm Resource Lounge, ARC £3

Friday 12th to Sunday 14th March Weekend Trip to Stonehenge See ‘Our Pick’ 6.00pm to 5.00pm

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

Meet at the Parkinson Building steps £50 (Transport and accommodation included)

Information & Support Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings

Saturday 13th March Trip to York 10.00am to 5.00pm Meet outside WH Smiths, Leeds Train Station £13.30 (with railcard)

Sunday 14th March Picture Frame Decorating 2.00pm to 4.00pm Meeting Room 5, ARC £2.50 per frame

Tuesday 16th March Tai Chi 5.00pm to 6.00pm Conference Room, ARC £3 Interfaith Panel See ‘One to Watch’ 7.00pm to 9.00pm Meeting Room 3, ARC Free

Wednesday 17th March Women’s Hockey 10.00am to 4.00pm Weetwood Pitches £5

Friday 19th to Sunday 20th March Weekend Trip to Edinburgh 8.30pm to 5.00pm Meet at the Parkinson Building steps £60 (includes transport and accommodation)

Every Thursday in March

12.30pm to 1.30pm Meeting Room 8, Union Building

Democracy & Campaigns Tuesday 2nd March Referendum 2 - amendments deadline The deadline to submit your amendments to the motions going to referendum.

12.00 noon www.leeds universityunion.org. uk/referendum VC Q&A What do you want to ask the Vice Chancellor? Now is your chance.

6.00pm to 7.00pm Conference Hall, ARC

Monday 15th March Union Council Meeting 6.00pm to 9.00pm Conference Hall, ARC

Monday 19th April Union Council Meeting 6.00pm to 9.00pm Conference Hall, ARC

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

VOTE Motion on the Wednes from s 21st Apday ril

WARNING

CHANGE IS IN PROGRESS Wednesday 21st April Debate Meeting Come and debate the motions up for Referendum.

Time TBC Location TBC Referendum 2: Voting Starts Vote in the 2nd Referendum this academic year.

Visit www.leeds universityunion.org.

uk/referendum to read the motions.

From 4.00pm, Vote online, www.leedsuniversityunion. org.uk/referendum

Wednesday 28th April Referendum 2: Voting CLOSES The Count 6.00pm to late, Terrace

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Ask Maddie...

Maddie Harris-Smith Officer Your Welfare

Please send your problems to thegist@luu.leeds.ac.uk. All our questions are kept anonymous unless you state otherwise. Not all questions can be printed I’m afraid but we will try to answer as many as we can.

This month we’ re telling you wha focusing on the proposed cuts to educat t’s happening ion, and how we’re represent you. working to

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is conducting The University of Leeds gathering e’, rcis exe ies an ‘econom ents so that rtm pa de m information fro as where are y it will be able to identif This is being . de ma be n ca s saving funding cuts to done in response to nounced by the an n Higher Educatio cuts are likely to government. These r education impact upon all highe specific to t no are d an s institution Leeds. llege Union The University and Co rsity staff, has ive un of ion un (UCU), a h the wit te pu dis entered into a t the University University, arguing tha economies has not conducted the er, and that nn ma r pe pro a in exercise ncies are compulsory redunda unacceptable. explain the details It’s impossible to fully n in such a atio situ of this ongoing full understanding limited space. For a actions of all of the positions and recommend we s, rtie pa involved onomies exercise ec the reading up on te, the bsi on the University we the LUU on ge pa t Firs n atio Educ er staff oth d (an U UC the website, the at g kin loo d an union) blogs, e on national press coverag Higher government cuts to n.

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Leeds Univ ers defending ity Union is committe th d to have been e interests of studen ts. We in University fro close contact with the m the beg reassuranc inning, and e that the education sought will not be of students ne raised con gatively impacted. cerns with We also the UCU a impact of bout the strikes on st udents.

We have re cently surv e to identify student co yed 975 students nc and allow us to contin erns and opinions, u See the re sults of the e to represent you. survey, an demands d th we have m ade of the e list of University, at org.uk/ed w w w.leedsuniversit ucationfirst yunion. /.

Officially the UK’s BIGGEST Student Ball! For Tickets and Info visit: www.leedssummerball.com

Florence & The Machine The Sunshine Underground Full Line-Up Across all Four Arenas Announced Soon

Visit us online to see the full line-up Tickets: On Sale Wednesday 17th March £37 Priority Price, £42 Normal Price including travel. Available from CATS, www.leedssummerball. com, LMUSU Met Bar and Leeds University Union building.

Facebook Search: The Official Leeds Universities’ Summer Ball 2010 & Summer Ball Fan Page

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ION T A UC T ED FIRS

22 The Gist

FRIDAY 4TH JUNE_ LOTHERTON HALL

Stay up to date with the situation by going to the Education First page on our website.

If you are concerned about cuts and want to take action, join the ‘Leeds University against cuts’ group on Facebook.

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

We are using proceeds of this event to create a better Union www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist *Please note that line up is subject to change

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www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist