Redbrick
7th - 13th March 2014
Est. 1936
Vol. 78. Issue 1446. www.redbrick.me Katrin Busch
Guild Elections: Campaigning Draws to a Close Pages 4 - 5
University Grants Living Wage to All Staff University of Birmingham agrees a minimum pay of £7.65 per hour Joint agreement between the university, UNISON and Unite will come into effect on August 1st
The University of Birmingham has announced that it has agreed to pay all staff the living wage. The announcement was issued to all UoB staff via an email from Adam Tickell, Provost and Vice Principal. The email, which was sent on the afternoon of 5th March, stated that an agreement over pay had been reached jointly between the Unite and Unison unions and the University.
UNISON and Unite have both partaken in industrial strike action over the last few months. The email states that, ‘the Branch executives of Unison and Unite will recommend to their members that no further industrial action be taken in relation to the 2013 pay settlement. ‘Both sides are committed to early and constructive discussions to reach agreement on the settlement for 2014 provisionally commencing on 10 March 2014.’ The changes will take effect from 1st August 2014, when the university will
match the current Living Wage, which is estimated to be £7.65 (outside London). The agreements that have been settled at the University of Birmingham are not representative of a national change, with many universities still refusing to pay the Living Wage standard of £7.65 for all staff. A final year Politics and Economics student told us, ‘It’s an amazing example of what staff and students, working together, can achieve.’ Matthew Raine, Branch Secretary for Unison at the University of Birmingham said 'Unison welcomes the move by the
university to pay the equivalent of the living wage for the next two years. We hope this is the start of the university meeting their social and moral obligations to become an accredited living wage employer. This will directly affect 376 support staff, and indirectly affect 1900 support staff. Further negotiations will take place concerning the living wage paid in November, as we forecast a rise [of the living wage] of 3%. We are looking forward to constructive negotiations for 2014 pay as the cost of living is rising for everybody.'
Becky McCarthy discusses The Oscars 2014
Marianna Manson on the love/hate nature of reality TV
Gabriela Quattromini reviews Paolo Nutini's single
George Bearman discusses haptic technology
Film / Page 12
Television / Page 20
Music / Page 16
Sci&Tech / Page 14
Duncan Kenyon Correspondent
@DuncanKenyon1
2
7th - 13th March 2014
redbrick.me/news
News Tweet of the Week
Society Spotlight
Craft Society The Craft Society aims to teach and encourage a variety of crafty skills, particularly sweing, whilst providing a chance to meet new like-minded people. Meetings are on Wednesday's 1-3pm, in the Mandela Room in the Guild.
The mermaid wants to know, have you voted in the Officer Team elections yet? #officerelections2014
Membership is £5 to join the society and £2.50 per meeting for members (£3.50 non-members). The price includes all patterns and instructions needed to make the project as well as the material To contact the Craft society email: craft@guild.bham.ac.uk, tweet @UoBCraftSociety or Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/443875212289887/
Online in Redbrick News
Keep up to date with the Elections results The News Team will be covering the 2014 Guild Elections Result's Night. Follow the events on twitter as they happen on @redbrickpaper or follow the hashtag of #officerelections2014 The team will also be live blogging the night. To see more go to http:// www.redbrick.me
Photo of the Week: Aston Sunset Kartina Chapman
Redbrick Editorial Team Editor Josh Holder editor@redbrick.me
Comment Editors Julia Bayer Charlie Moloney Jonathan Simpson
Multimedia Editors Molly Garfoot Julia Yan Max Powley
Deputy Editors Charley Ross James Phillips deputy@redbrick.me
comment@redbrick.me
multimedia@redbrick.me
Sport Editors Alex Kronenberg Tom Kelly David Morris sports@redbrick.me
Arts Editors Katherine Keegan Stuart Found Benjamin Carver arts@redbrick.me
Life&Style Editors Marianne Lampon Victoria Haworth Alexandra Landes lifestyle@redbrick.me
Film Editors Becky McCarthy Tom Lofkin Ben Jackson film@redbrick.me
Digital Editor Ashley Kirk digital@redbrick.me News Editors Izi Hicks Adam Rowe Sabrina Dougall Vanessa Browne news@redbrick.me
Music Editors Ludo Cinelli Susie Dickey Sam Dix Matt Moody music@redbrick.me
Television Editors Hannah Mason Daisy Follett Rochelle Stanley crossword@redbrick.me tv@redbrick.me
Crossword Editors Matthew Robinson Thomas Hutchinson
Travel Editors Hannah Stevens Elizabeth Waind Tamara Silver travel@redbrick.me Food Editors Gemma Bridge Lynette Dakin Millie Walker food@redbrick.me
Sci&Tech Editors Soumya Perinparajah Claire Harris George Bearman technology@redbrick.me
Photography Editors Charlotte Wilson Emily Hickey-Mason photography@redbrick.me
Senior Editorial Assistant Isabel Mason Editorial Assistants Molly Garfoot Bethany Tilston Ellie Jarvis Ella Parsons Toria Brook-Hill Michael Smith Lucy Moseley Emily Trivette
Redbrick Guild of Students Edgbaston Park Road Birmingham B15 2TT 0121 251 2462 editor@redbrick.me Redbrick is printed through www.mortonsprint.com 01507 523 456 Advertising Contact Linda Langley in Guild Marketing on 0121 251 2524 Designed and typeset by Redbrick Copyright (C) Redbrick 2013 The views expressed in Redbrick do not necessarily reflect those of the editors, the Guild or the publishers. If you find an error of fact in our pages, please write to the Editor. Our policy is to correct mistakes promptly in print and to apologise where appropriate. We reserve the right to edit any article, letter or email submitted for publication.
7th - 13th March 2014
redbrick.me/news
3
Guild Issues Statement Condemning Student Suspensions Sabrina Dougall News Editor
@Sabrina_Dougall
The Guild of Students has released a statement criticising the University for the suspensions of five students after the national protest held on campus. The Guild, who posted the statement online on 4th March, were mandated to do so by Guild Council on 20th February. The statement reads: ‘The Guild opposes the suspension of five University of Birmingham students following the demonstration on 29th January 2014, and the continued suspension of two of those students’. It continued: ‘The Guild calls on the University to immediately reinstate the remaining two students.’ The Guild added that it is ‘committed to campaigning towards this end.’ The two students who remain suspended are Kelly Rogers and Simon Furse. The
University withdrew the suspensions of the three other students on February 20th. The Guild said it ‘believes that protest is central to democracy’ and condemned the notion that ‘the University only accepts protest that meets its own Code of Practice.’ The statement addressed the notion that the disciplinary action being carried out against the students calls personal freedom of expression into question. It read, ‘If freedom of speech is only accepted on campus when agreed by the University, it is not free at all, and sets a dangerous precedent both in Birmingham and on campuses across the country.’ One of the five suspended students told Redbrick: 'I'm really happy this statement has been released. It's what's needed right now, because Kelly and Simon are currently suspended for an indefinite amount of time.' The student went on to say, 'I think the Guild needs to launch a campaign based on that statement. Hopefully we'll
see demonstrations organised by the Guild in support of the suspended students.' The Guild's message comes in addition to the statement issued on the day of the demonstration itself, which expressed that the Guild was ‘extremely disappointed’ with the protest action of the students. The former statement, which read, ‘we do not condone the action taken today,’ attracted mixed reactions of praise and criticism from the student body. The Guild’s most recent statement went on to say, ‘The suspensions have caused considerable detriment to the students involved. The suspended students have been banned from entering campus, including the Guild of Students (and have been suspended as registered students), have been denied access to welfare services, and prevented from any contact with their tutors.’ Shortly after the Guild's statement was issued, the suspended students were granted some access to University Welfare serv-
ices and access to the Guild. Emails between Rogers and the Director of Student Services, published on the Defend Education blog, reveal the university refusing the students access to welfare services. Later in the exchange Rogers presented a letter signed by Vice-Chancellor, David Eastwood, which had been sent to local MPs, stating that 'the students will be offered support and advice from the welfare service regardless of the exclusion decision.' Following this, the university informed Rogers that she is granted limited access to campus for welfare services and access to the Guild. Defend Education have continued to contest the suspensions. Will Duckworth, Deputy Leader of the Green Party, was pictured on the group’s Facebook page holding a sign outside of the Vice Chancellor’s office last month which read, ‘Drop the suspensions’. Suspended students have been invited to further disciplinary meetings for the end of this month.
University still inspired by Jamaican Olympics Vedika Bahl News Reporter
@itsmevedika
The legacy left by the Jamaican Olympic track and field team during their stay at the UOB campus has been commemorated by the launch of a brand new scholarship. The scholarship is offered jointly by the University of Birmingham and the Jamaica National Building Society, following the university’s hosting of the Jamaican team’s training preparations pre-London 2012. The scholarship will be available to Jamaican students who qualify for study of the Master’s programmes at the University of Birmingham’s Business School. The scholarship, which was first conceptualized at a charity dinner for the Olympic team, is set to provide three one-year scholarships over three years. 19 courses will be offered to students by the Birmingham Business School; given the opportunity to represent Jamaica, students will be known as Student Ambassadors for their country. Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Head of
College of Social Sciences, Professor Edward Peck said, ‘There is much talk of the legacy of the London Olympics but this scholarship being offered is evidence of the partnerships that have been deepened by this unforgettable sporting event.’ He added that the scholarship is a ‘another step in strengthening the bonds of friendship between Jamaica and the City and University of Birmingham’. Earl Jarrett, General Manager of Jamaica National, has backed Professor Peck’s statement, saying, ‘Offering this educational programme will serve to strengthen the relationship between Birmingham and our country.’ He also believes that ‘the Legacy Scholarship will result in Jamaica benefitting from their expertise, on [the awardees’] return, as leaders in the field of business.’ The scholarship is eligible to Jamaican citizens who are graduates of Jamaican tertiary education within the past two years and are living in Jamaica at the time of application. The first student is due to start in September 2014.
Warnings issued after armed robbery in Selly Oak Seven female students held at knifepoint as four gang members loot their house Adam Rowe
Online News Editor
@adamrowe93
On Wednesday 26th February, a house on Tiverton Road, Selly Oak was invaded by a knife-weilding gang. Seven third-year females at knifepoint whilst they stole laptops, iPads and phones. This happened after the girls returned from a night-out. West Midlands Police explained how the group were 'followed' on their way home and that the men were all wearing balacla-
vas. The robbery took place whilst one gang member stayed downstairs with the students, as the other members robbed the house for their laptops, iPads and phones. Two girls, who did not go out were asleep upstairs and were woken by the gang. The gang are reported to consist of four males, three white men and one black. The university is currently providing counselling to the girls involved and the police have increased their presence in the area. Sergeant Williams, who was dealing with the robbery's aftermath, said that the
increase in police presence would only be 'temporary' and that crime in Selly Oak was 'at its all time lowest level'.
"The police have increased their presence in the area" Dave Charles, Vice-President for Housing and Community at the Guild of Students, gave students basic advice for
when going out of a night. He asked students to 'be aware of how to protect yourself' and that these kind of offences tend to happen between the hours of 9pm and 5am. He attempted to reassure students by advising them to 'be assured that the Guild is working closely with West Midlands Police to ensure Selly Oak stays a safe space to live. We rely on you to provide the Police with information so please ring 101 if you see anything suspicious or 999 in an emergency'.
4
redbrick.me/news
7th - 13th March 2014
News
Guild Elections 2014
The Elections Story So Far: This has been a busy week for the Guild's candidates; campaign teams have been out in force, decking campus with everything from witty signs to free sweets. Formal debates and discussion have also been taken place throughout the week, with the candidates having the opportunity to express their main policies and priorities.
The Presidential Q&A The presidential elections are now in full swing. All candidates were interviewed on the first day of campaigning to gain an insight of their main policy aims and initial thoughts: Ella Cohen
Presidential Correspondent
Tara Dein
Presidential Correspondent
1. What makes you stand out as a candidate? George: ‘I really want to focus the Guild back on to its core value of representing students. I think too much this year the Guild has focused on restructuring itself when it should be reaching out to students. Not many candidates have talked about that. I don’t have all the answers and would love to come out and talk to students and find out what they want.’ Ben: ‘I’m really eager about getting lots of money from the Guild and that’s really important to me. I care a lot about things that are wishy washy and irrelevant to students such as engagement and democracy which means I can say those things and not actually have any policy plans or ways to enact them and keep talking about them in a way that makes people’s ears turn off in about five seconds.’ Poppy: ‘I’m the only candidate with seven months of experience in office so I won’t spend any time working out what I’m doing. With the big changes that are happening with the student review I am the candidate with the experience to deliver that change.’ Maximilian: ‘Well, I’m the only candidate who is not one of these career guildo’s. I’m here to do what the Guild is supposed to do and represent students instead of chatting about politics.’ Ed: ‘I’ve got a clear overall vision for what the Guild can achieve in the next year and beyond. Ive got ideas for policies which will actually make short and long term changes. We need to start thinking about the future and what our teams can achieve.’ 2. Who would you class as your inspirational leader of choice and why? Poppy: ‘I’d probably say my mum, she has been incredible. She’s never run a Sabb election though!’ Ben: ‘I don’t really like leaders. I don’t like leadership as a concept, it annoys me. I believe in self-empowerment as oppose to looking up to someone else to guide your moral and ethical framework.’
George: ‘There are so many, you can look at Obama, you’ve got Mandela who fought apartheid. I’d have to go with Mandela, once of my main manifesto is to raise awareness of liberation issues. I was so ignorant when I came here about liberation issues and I’ve truly learnt a lot from the Guild.’ Maximilian: ‘That’s easy. Sir Arthur Wellesley who was the first Duke of Wellington. Not because of his military accomplishments though he never lost a battle and he did defeat Napoleon but mostly because of who he was as a person. He was a man of incredible self - discipline and incredible work ethos.’ Ed: ‘One of my idols is Mahatma Ghandi. I think predominantly because he stood up for what he believed in.’ 3.What is your primary policy aim? Ed: ‘I think the most important policy is trying to get a higher block grant out of the university per student. At the moment, a lot of the departments including student development is struggling with budgets, we should be able to support the work of students properly.’ Poppy: ‘I’d definitely like to see some of the changes [from] the Democratic [Structures] Review come into fruition. I’d like to see decision making within the guild become accessible to all students - it’s fundamental that every student feels like they are part of that process.’ Ben: ‘I want to scare the Guild management into actually enacting policies students vote for. These elections are a massive sham, using the same kind of popularity contest, gimmicky nonsense which further destroys our already limited engagement in politics. As such, my primary policy aim is to have everyone oscillate violently.’
Candidate's Debates Ella Cohen
Presidential Correspondent
Tara Dein
Presidential Correspondent
The debate began with each candidate speaking confidently and seriously, although some laughing was heard from the audience as Mr Puusta spoke of his policy aims. An example of this was the suggestion that Sabbatical Officers should live ‘in the attic of the Guild’ being ‘fed small amounts of food to survive’. The seven questions posed were on a variety of topics, ranging from how the candidates felt about the free Fab tickets sab officers receive, to what they thought the most and least effective departments of the guild are. Discussion was also held on the topic of liberation groups, particularly topical given the recent defend education protests. They were also asked, when given the choice of protest and discussion, which in their opinion would prove the most effective when fighting for change. When asked if they would want a career in politics, interestingly, none of them expressed a desire to pursue the field, challenging the widely held assumption that winning this role is simply a stepping stone to a life in Westminster. In fact, when asked, Maximilian even stated that ‘there would be
no greater purgatory than a career in politics’. The salary level of sabbatical officers was also reviewed by the candidates. There was wide consensus regarding the current pay that sabbatical officers receive. Poppy said ‘given the level of pressure and work, she ran for reasons other than the salary’, even stating she would have ‘run if the salary was less’. When discussions turned to FAB tickets, most of the candidate’s felt this was fairly irrelevant. George remarked that if he were to win the role he plans to pay for FAB tickets and Edward agreed. Topical in particular after the recent defend education demonstrations, the candidates were asked what the most effective way to enact changes would be, given the choice of discussion or protest. A variety of answers was given. George commented on the importance of trying to discuss first, before launching into a protest, whereas Ben focused more on the importance of context. Poppy spoke of the need for both, stating that they were ‘both effective ways of enacting change’. Edward talked of a spectrum on which both protest and discussion lay, whilst Maximilian strongly stated that ‘there will be no change with protest’. As we reached the halfway point of the election campaigns, the candidates manifestos were fully revealed, leaving them free to concentrate on continuing their pursuit of presidency until results night next Saturday.
George: ‘I really want to put on events that the students want. Its all well and good having fun, we are really out of touch in other areas. There are plenty of societies putting on events and they just aren’t advertising them enough. I’d like to work, potentially through a guild app, [on] promoting these.’ Maximilian: ‘To increase societies within the guild, mostly liberation groups by pushing out the liberation officer roles to the presidents of those groups and amalgamating all the liberations officers into a single inclusivity and diversity officer. Also [to] see how much of the funds we can rejiggle to societies, because the societies are the lifeblood of the Guild not the political wing.’
Katrin Busch
redbrick.me/news
7th-13th March 2014
5
The VPE Hustings Lucy Moseley
VP of Education Correspondent
Education appeared to be a subject that students were particularly interested in, due to the numerous questions asked. On Saturday night Vice President candidates Joe Armer, Daniel Bellamy and Deborah Hermanns took 60 seconds to outline their policies before turning their attention to the floor. The three appeared to share a lot of the same ideas; when asked about unconditional offers they all agreed that the university appears to be offering more places than they can manage, hence the housing crisis at the start of this academic year. Deborah pointed out that the university needs to count how many offers they are able to provide, while Dan labelled it reckless. Dan also focussed on the fact that exams become the only method of assessment, and Joe expanded that this was arbitrary and that
Matthew Jenkins
The VPDRS Hustings Razan Al-Faouri
with something that actually actively engages with students that’s designed by them’. She plans to ‘consult them on how it works next year’.
VPDRS Correspondent
Bethan ‘Lovey’ Dovey, running for Vice President of Democracy, Resources and Sustainability (VPDRS), outlined her three main policies at the VP hustings on Saturday. She is the only candidate running against ‘Re-Open Nominations’, ‘RON’. Dovey wishes, firstly, to ‘support student business’ by seeing the Guild ‘actively engaging’ with students by ‘offering a student business fair and business workshops’. Secondly, she wants to make getting FAB tickets easier by making the online release of tickets weekly rather than termly. Finally, Beth’s main policy, and her most drastic is that she wants to ‘scrap Guild Council’. She wants to ‘replace it
"She is the only candidate running against RON" When asked how she envisions scrapping the Guild Council, Dovey replied that this would be undertaken in accordance with the Democratic Structures Review (DSR), which is currently under review. She continued by saying that she hopes the DSR is ratified by the Guild Council, as it will then go through to a student referendum. The DSR is a report on Guild democracy that has been compiled by a Students’ Union consultant who has been hired by the Guild to review how it is run, in the hope of making it more representative and efficient.
The VPSN Hustings Duncan Kenyon VPSN Corresponent
The Vice President Sport and Nutrition (VPSN) hustings were held independently to the other hustings in combination with the ‘sports forum’. The evening began at 6pm on Tuesday in the Arts building and was hosted by the current VPS Vicki Harris. Before the hustings began, the project manager of the new sports centre had a quick talk about the plans for the new gym. The site will begin construction in April with hopes that the new gym will be open in January 2016. Vicki then reminded everyone that voting was open and allowed Molly Browne, The VPSN candidate running opposed only RON, to give her sixty second speech.
VPAD Correspondent
Vedika Bahl
VPHC Correspondent
@itsmevedika
Jack Mably, better known around campus as ‘Captain Jack’ summarised his policies at the Vice Presidential hustings on Saturday evening in the Guild Council chambers. Jack is the only candidate running for the position, competing only against ‘RON’, or ‘Re-Open Nominations.’ Jack intends to ‘sail you to a safer Selly’, as the current Selly Watch scheme 'isn't effective in reaching a large majority of students. I want to put it online and therefore allow the large majority of 30,000 students to access it'. He also spoke of an online system he
plans to establish, allowing peer review of landlords before any contracts are signed, to be ‘made up of ‘previous tenants’ reviews of the landlords, maintenance and deposits.’ His last policy is to clean up Selly Oak, by ‘lobbying local councils to increase the amount of wheelie bins in Selly Oak and Harborne.’ When asked how he would work to prevent violent crime amongst student accommodation, Jack argued in favour of developing the Selly Watch scheme as well as the possibility of campaigning for more streetlights and safety aids. ‘Maybe speaking to the local police and telling them 'Selly Oak is a problem area - what are you going to do to improve it?' he stated. ‘Just because we’re students doesn’t make us any less important’.
Molly reviewed her three main policies in her speech: to raise the profile of the social side of sport, more coverage of smaller sports clubs and provision of University of Birmingham sport despite gym redevelopment. She then asked for people to vote for her against re-opening the nominations. After her speech, Molly was asked several questions. She believes her online calendar would be very important to give clubs more awareness. She believes this will create more fairness in publicising all sports in the guild. Molly also wants to improve the social aspect of clubs. She has ‘seen barriers in the sports’ with social people and nonsocial players. She wishes to eliminate this by promoting the social side of sport. Molly would also like to see better coverage of smaller sports utilising the facilities within the Guild media groups such as Redbrick, Guild TV and BurnFM.
The VPAD Hustings Emily Hackett
The VPHC Hustings
it was necessary to look at the effect this was having. However, their opinions differed when asked how they would avoid being side-lined by the university. Joe disagreed with the question and thought that the university had a good relationship with the guild and that they had had a constructive year. Dan expressed that he would use the threat of direct action if necessary and Deborah thought the relationship was a huge problem that needed to be fixed and that the staff and students should be in control. Another question that sparked differing views was the subject of why cuts were being made by the university. Dan thought that the university were simply trying to save some money, whereas Joe believed it was due to the vast number of students taken on this year. Deborah was of the opinion that the university’s money was going to the wrong places. Their session was brought to a close as there was not enough time to respond to all the questions.
The hustings for the candidates running for Vice President (Activities and Development) were held at Guild Council last Thursday. The two candidates, Wadim Wesolek and Stuart Found, both put forward their policies and were questioned on a range of topics by Guild Councillors. Wadim Wesolek, a third year Law with Business student specified in his opening speech last night that one of his main aims is to improve the room-booking system by moving it online, therefore making the process both easier and faster for student groups. Wadim also believes his experience in holding positions in different student groups will allow him to empower these groups. He would also support members of under-represented groups. Wadim also emphasised that he would help to create better events for societies and associations in the Guild. The other candidate, Stuart Found, focused on different issues. He said last night that he believes students may be worried about life after graduating from university and advocates students choosing Birmingham city centre as an alternative meeting place to
the Guild. He believes that if businesses were encouraged to work with students societies they had an interest in, students could gain professional connections and this would build on the reputation of the Guild. Later in the evening, both were questioned on current issues affecting the Guild. When questioned on their views about the subject of getting external speakers to visit the Guild, Stuart Found said, ‘External speakers are an essential part of university life, enriching opportunities and should be encouraged.’ Wadim argued ‘Regulations of the Guild obviously need to be followed, but also need to be revised to make it easier for external speakers to visit the Guild.’ The role of VPAD includes being Editorin-Chief of the media groups within the Guild. When questioned on the future of this relationship, Wadim claimed he would allow these groups liberty to do what they wished, as long as they followed Guild regulations. He also emphasised he would support these groups in getting their message across. On the other hand, Stuart discussed that he would be interested in trying to allow for innovative ideas for the media groups and would work closely with the groups in terms of what they want to achieve in order to avoid misunderstanding.
Victoria Kettlewell
6
redbrick.me/news
7th - 13th March 2014
News
HS2 to run through Curzon Street Council leader defends 'skypark' station plans as boost to city's economy Lucy Moseley News Reporter
Development plans for the 'HS2' train line from London to Birmingham station were revealed earlier this week. Plans for the new station on Curzon Street were uncovered last week. Birmingham City council leader Sir Albert Bore outlined the long-term benefits that the station will create. The station complex is said to include major retail stores, a metro extension, housing and even a ‘skypark’ on top of the building. Sir Albert stated that the creation of 2000 homes and 14,000 jobs would boost the city’s economy by £1.3 billion each year, and transform 141 hectares of neglected areas Digbeth and Eastside. ‘The masterplan is part of Birmingham’s ambitious growth agenda that will see the city’s economy grow and prosper’, explained Waheed Nazir, director for planning and regeneration at Birmingham City Council, ‘HS2 will be an important catalyst for this ongoing development and regeneration activity’. On the other hand, there has been controversy surrounding the plans to build a high-speed rail link connecting London Euston Station to the English Midlands, North West England, Yorkshire, the Central Belt of Scotland and potentially North East
England. The line is to be built in two phases with the first linking London to Birmingham in just 49 minutes. This was approved in January 2012 and construction is set to commence in 2017. Opposition has been ongoing since the original plans were announced, with protests and petitions as well as banners and stickers all over the potentially affected areas. The ‘Stop HS2’ campaign was also supported by citizens all over the country who believe HS2 will harm the economy and believe that the £80 billion it will cost could be put to much better use in sectors such as education or the NHS. Another student commented that ‘it’s totally unnecessary. London and Birmingham are already perfectly well connected by Virgin and Chiltern railways to Euston and Marylebone.’ With the predicted opening of 2026 he also pointed out that ‘by the time a new government comes to office and decides to stop the construction, millions would have already been wasted that could have gone towards health and education sectors. I don’t think it will ever actually get finished, just look at the tram being built in Edinburgh that started in 2007 and has encountered delays and caused many disputes.’ However, a group of rail industry leaders have warned that scrapping the network would mean that up to £5 billion has already been wasted.
New Street the Busiest Station Outside of London City rail station sees 2.7% increase in passengers Oliver Norgate News Reporter
@ONorgate
Research has shown that Birmingham New Street Station is officially the busiest station outside of London. The hub, which has been undergoing extensive renovation, rose 2.7% to 32.09 million passengers for the recent financial year. The figures, from the Office of Rail Regulation (ORR), show that all ten of the UK’s busiest stations saw an increase in the number of passengers between April 2012 and March 2013. Despite the steady rise of train ticket prices, all of Britain's railway stations have reported a rise in passengers, with the overall figure being a 3.3% increase. London's Waterloo station was named
the busiest station with a 1.9% rise to 96 million. London Victoria station was the second busiest with numbers rising by 1.6% to 77.34 million. Glasgow Central was the second busiest station outside of the capital, with an increase of 2.2% to 27.18 million. All of the busiest stations in the UK, including Manchester Piccadilly, Leeds and Brighton, all saw significant increases in passenger numbers for the financial year. The news comes after New Street station was recently voted the worst station in the UK for customer satisfaction. The survey included such factors as security, helpfulness of staff and standards of cleanliness. However, Birmingham Moor Street station was voted among the best in the UK, with only London St Pancras beating it.
Katrin Busch
NHS Health Centre in Selly Oak May Face Closure Alistair Griffiths News Reporter
@ali_griffiths1
Katie Road Health Centre is up for review in September 2014 and faces potential closure. Last month an initial meeting was held between Selly Oak Constituents, their Labour MP Steve McCabe, and the NHS’ City Commissioning Group (CCG). The meeting was held to discuss the future of the walk-in health centre service on Katie Road in Selly Oak, which is located beyond Selly Oak station, just off Bristol Road. The centre treats around 51,000 people a year; this, coupled with a relatively substantial turn out from the community at the discussion - upwards of 60 people - adds to
the impression that the centre is an important amenity within the local area. MP Steve McCabe was determined to convey the importance of the centre to the members of the CCG Board who were present. He said afterwards that ‘if [the CCG] are serious about listening to people, it was obvious that a majority of my constituents aren’t in favour of moving the Walk-In Centre to the A&E department’. This is also in light of recent discussions to close Tiverton Baths, the affordable gym that many students use in the Selly Oak area instead of the more expensive Munrow Centre and other local gyms. The constituents of Selly Oak now face two major health and welfare service cuts in 2014. This message seems to have been somewhat received by the Group, whose
Chairman of the Board, Galvin Ralsten, said that he understood that ‘Walk-in centres are popular and it would be irresponsible to change them willy nilly’. The CCG’s job it is to distribute NHS funds around the region and evaluate the spending periodically. They have cited more than one reason for the centre’s closing. Aside from financial restraints, the CCG see other benefits to closing down the service. Chief Accounting Officer Dr Barbara King has said that ‘It isn’t just about money, it is about patients who use A&E inappropriately, knowing where they should go or easing pressure off A&E staff by referring them to a walk-in centre close by.’ In light of this attitude, the proposed actions for the health services on Katie Road are to relocate to the Action and
Emergency department at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. The claims made by the CCG maybe an attempt to compromise over their stance on the walk-in centre, many others of which are facing outright closure, whilst remaining in line with warnings about straining A&E services. Last year 21% of patients, from 1,900 walk-in centres, said they would have gone to A&E if it hadn’t been there. By moving the Katie Road service to within the hospital, the CCG will be able to get patients the appropriate medical care quickly, especially important for those patients who might otherwise have been a distraction or strain on the other hospital staff. The discussion is ongoing at the moment in an informal manner, and formal consultation is due to begin in September 2014.
redbrick.me/comment
7th - 13th March 2014
7
Comment
Comment on Campus: Guild Elections "It's relative minority politics, people need more of a choice about who they vote for"
"I don't think that students feel like there's a point in getting involved in student politics"
Second Year English Student: It's important that when it comes to voting people have a choice. That's how democracy works. I hear that you can vote for RON. Personally I don't think that enough people know about that. I think they're just going to default into choosing whoever is running. I personally don't feel like voting for many of the candidates but I feel like if I voted for RON then I would just be holding up the process, because ultimately when the nominations are re-opened I don't think that anybody new is going to run. Even if they did, they might just run because they think they've got an easy shot at winning. That's not really the kind of person we want.
First Year English Student: I'm involved in the RA scheme, and I've been to Guild Council. Having been there I can understand why people just can't be bothered with student politics. A lot of people there are only interested in just having arguments and putting across their own political views. What they should be doing is focusing on working together so that they can get positive change for students. Like I feel like a lot of the people involved don't think about students as their first priority. What I feel about the guild elections is that if the right people don't get in then it's possible that next year we're just going to have the same issues with gridlock in Guild Council.
Katrin Busch
"I find it all quite pretentious and disenfranchising" Second Year, Physics Student: I'm not going to vote. I don't know anything about any of the candidates and I feel like they should have done more to make me aware of their different policies and how they're not all just saying the same thing. I find it all just really pretentious and disenfranchising. They pretend that if you vote for them then there's going to be a lot of change, but really the fundamental structures of the Guild means that they just can't change anything. What are they realistically going to do? The recent demonstrations have proven that students really don't have a voice at this univesity. The people who run this place are the grown ups with all of the money. That sounds cynical but I really feel that it's true. Students can lobby for change and maybe achieve some small changes, but nothing important will change.
"I don't know much about it, but from what I can see student politics benefits us" Third Year, German and English Student: I don't really know anything about the candidates or anything. I will definitely vote though. I think the Guild is wonderful! I am involved in many different societies and I am always in and out of meetings for different committees. I have heard that people are very angry with the Guild about a lot of things to do with protests and major issues. But as a Guild of Students, for students, I feel they do a fantastic job. There are so many brilliant societies and the groups are run in a really professional way. People say that there is no difference between the candidates and nothing is going to change, but I think that is good. The Guild is doing what it is supposed to do: Providing services for students.
Katrin Busch
"They're getting important issues talked about"
Katrin Busch
Postgraduate, Mechanical Engineering Student: Student politics is very important and it is very good to see people working so hard to get elected. It is possible to criticise student politicians by saying that they have no power to enact real change. But ultimately I feel that they get a lot of important issues the attention that they deserve. For example the non-sabbatical officers represent the interests of their specific denominations. Now, they might not be able to enact enormous amounts of change. Nobody is saying that a student politician can enact change in the way that, say, David Cameron can enact change. That's just a ridiculous criticism. What they really achieve is that they stand up for what is right. Even if they don't always achieve their aims they represent all of the different students and their interests. It is the most representative kind of politics, student politics, far more representative and idealistic than Westminster. I think it's great.
"It's not unrepresentative because everybody has the chance to get involved if they want to" Second Year, Sports Science Student: You say that a lot of the positions are not being contested. Like you say that three of the sabbatical officers are running unopposed, but I wouldn't say that's unfair because if somebody else wanted to run for that position then they have the right to do so. Also particularly with the non-sabbatical officers, like there's only one position actually being contested. But ultimately they're volunteers really and they're doing a hard job. So fair play to them, if they are willing to stand to do it then that says a lot about them. I think that it's typical with people that they don't actually want to do all the work themselves, like the work that these positions would entail. But at the end of the day if somebody else stands up and says they'll do it then they'll still find a way to complain.
8
7th - 13th March 2014
redbrick.me/comment
Comment
Morals Don't Depend on the Date Jonathan Simpson Comment Editor
As Steve McQueen deservedly gave his acceptance speech at the Oscars this week I was reminded of how I felt when I came out of the cinema having just watched 12 years a Slave in January. I was experiencing an unusual emotional concoction of grief (a grief which I suppose stems from the empathy which the movie expertly forms between the viewer and the enslaved characters) and, oddly, a mild sense of guilt. Why should I feel guilty? I didn’t do anything wrong. But I caught myself wondering if I and the people around me had been born in the USA prior to the Civil War and the Emancipation Proclamation would we have found ourselves caught up, helpless against the tide of social acceptance of the despicable human acts which occurred in the South in the 19th century? Similarly would we, as perfectly reasonable people today, have been tolerant of Nazi behaviour prior to and during World War Two? I often hear members of an older generation say things which we as a younger demographic cringe when we hear. Derogatory criticisms of those who don’t look like us, pray to a different God than we do, or have family traditions that we do not. Our parents act as the middle man, sandwiched in between social customs, as they roll their eyes and assure us that it isn’t their “fault”, it’s just the time that they were brought up in, the environment in which irremovable habits were ingrained. I realise that I have little ground to make this statement, being only 21 years old and
only having ever experienced one specific society type, at a time when equality and freedom are as present as they ever have been, but I reject the premise that we can be forced by the time in which we live to do things which go against our moral code as people, to move against the equilibrium from our natural instinct as people to care for others. We are, after all, mammals which have evolved in groups which care for each other. I can support this with the fact that there were people in the 1800’s who knew that slavery was wrong (take Benedict Cumberbatch’s character for example) and argued against it. Abraham Lincoln and some of those around him knew instinctively that it was cruel and unusual, and ended it. When the rest of Europe heard what Germany was doing to its citizens in the 1930s it felt repulsed by the abhorrence of it. Our morals are not determined by where or in what time we live, but by what we consider being right, regardless of what is happening around us. I think that many of those who were slavers in America were simply too lazy to fight the system with honest ethical fibre, something which I’m sure becomes easier to do as you have more and more to lose, like your standard of living. I think those in Nazi Germany were too terrified of speaking out against Hitler that they allowed the extermination of people around them, and again this is arguably understandable. But we can’t let ourselves excuse violent, hateful and inappropriate behaviour because those who presenting it have been taught it. Everybody should know right from wrong, and that’s it.
Political Campaigns Breed Hope and Strength Julia Bayer
Comment Editor
@jay10bay
Elections on campus have come around once again. Stickers, posters, Facebook groups and free goodies seem to be popping up left, right and centre and we're instantly thinking of the candidate. However, rarely are we thinking about the campaign team that made the posters that we are reading or if we are lucky, the people that have provided the food that we are eating. As I left university today, a course mate gave a large yawn and claimed he was exhausted from having been up at 6am putting advertising material all across campus. I was amazed that someone could show such commitment for a campaign that was not even his own and I thought he was slightly strange. This was until I realised I had done this exact thing last year for a friend of mine who was also running for a position on campus. Nonetheless, this campaigning, no matter how brutal or tiresome, lasts the best part of two weeks. Then it's back to reality, where your latest thought is no longer where the candidate is currently campaigning, where you will buy your next batch of poster paint and when you will change your shirt because you cannot remember the last time that you showered. Drawing parallels with the USA presidential and congressional elections, this sort of campaigning starts anywhere from two years before a candidate decides to run for office and lasts throughout that entire twoyear period.
People drop their day jobs, leave behind their family and friends and dedicate their lives to the cause. The job description almost definitely consists of constant stress that has no expiry date, no wage, no sleep, no recognition (unless you’re the Chief of Staff or the speechwriter) and this is without any guarantee of a win. Just to give you some idea, Hillary Clinton in 2008 had over 20,000 people volunteering to do just this. And for what? Why did so many people care? Well if any of you have seen the final two seasons of The West Wing where Josh (Deputy Chief of Staff for the White House) leaves the White House to start a prospective candidate’s (Santos) campaign, that is exactly why. For those of you not blessed to have watched this show, I will try and put it into words. We enter campaigns because they are exciting, because we feel like we are defending a worthwhile cause and raising awareness for that cause and person. You are not just a sideline observer of change but rather you are making that change happen and there really is no better feeling. Yes the days are long, the hours never ending and the pay pretty poor or perhaps, even better, non-existent. But along the way you meet some really great people, make some fantastic friends, learn how much you can achieve as a team and the lengths you can be pushed to when needed. Political campaigns show that we still care, we are not as self-centred as we fear and we do care about people other than ourselves and that, my friends, is something worth celebrating.
7th - 13th March 2014
redbrick.me/comment
9
The Legacy of Professor Hall Professor Matthew Hilton Professor of Social History
Dr Kieran Connell
Research Fellow in Department of History
On Monday 10th February, Stuart Hall, one of the University of Birmingham’s most distinguished academics, died at the age of 82. Hall was a pioneer in the field of cultural studies, though his political interventions also saw him become one of the chief intellectual critics of ‘Thatcherism’ - indeed, he coined the phrase even before she became Prime Minister. Hall was first appointed to the university in 1964, as a Research Fellow in the English department at Richard Hoggart’s new Centre for Contemporary Cultural Studies. This pioneering venture, funded in part by Penguin in recognition of Hoggart’s star performance in the Lady Chatterly’s Lover trial, committed itself to the study of everyday forms of popular culture, using skills drawn from literary scholarship. Hall, with his background in the New Left political debates of the 1950s and as the co-author of The Popular Arts (with Paddy Whannel), was ideally placed to assist in the research into youth cultures, the press, film and television.
"Hall brought to his work a sophistiated theoretical grounding that marked the centre as the institutional origin of cultural studies" Hall brought to his work a sophisticated theoretical grounding that marked the Centre as the institutional origin of cultural studies. For Hall, cultural studies was never a discipline in itself, but a field of enquiry, a mechanism to understand the broader structures that shaped our everyday lives. His most famous works while at Birmingham included analyses of how meanings are transmitted and received in the media (‘encoding’ and ‘decoding’) as well as how our identities based on age, class, race and gender intersected with dominant ways of seeing. But beyond his own insights, Hall’s work at Birmingham was distinctive because of the practices of research and collaboration he instigated. Inspired by the political fervour of the rebellions of 1968 and the Italian Marxist Antonio Gramsci, Hall sought out new working practices for teachers and students that broke down conventional hierarchies and resulted in forms of academic collaboration that, on the face of it, looked more like the sciences than the arts. What made the university famous in the 1970s were a series of co-written books, articles and ‘working papers’ that explored a variety of topics such as subcultures (Resistance Through Rituals), race and the law (Policing the Crisis) and the theoretical aspects of cultural inquiry (Culture, Media, Language). Many of Hall’s graduate students never got round to submitting their PhD theses, so busy were they in publishing joint ventures with their peers and teachers. Such was Hall’s intellectual generosity that, unlike almost every other leading intellectual working in the arts and humanities, he never published a monograph on his own. His ideas were there to stimulate and provoke; to join a conversation that others would take up. So when the University of Birmingham launched its Blue Plaques in 2011 the work of the centre was marked by a collective memorial. This underplayed
Hall’s own key contribution to its work, but it reflected perfectly the spirit of inquiry and debate that Hall injected into his and his colleagues’ work. Hall’s troubled relationship with the university ought not to be glossed over. The centre - and Hall in particular - were key leaders at a student sit-in on campus in 1968. This marked Hall’s card for many years and ensured he would never be promoted. It also contributed to the lack of investment in the centre throughout the 1970s - what is perhaps most incredible is that the tremendous outpouring of empirical research and theoretical reflection in this period was achieved with a permanent staff of just two or three lecturers. Hall got the best out of his colleagues and raised the bar for what could be achieved by graduate students.
"Hall's troubled relationship with the university ought not to be glossed over" Hall left the university in 1979 to take up a post at the Open University where his publicly available lectures on the BBC inspired an even wider group of students. His achievements at Birmingham were finally acknowledged with the award of an honorary doctorate, though relations were soured again in 2002 when the then Department of Cultural Studies and Sociology was closed by the University. In recent years, though, Hall had become an active supporter of the creation of an archive of the work of the CCCS and many of its leading figures. This is currently being created in the University’s Cadbury Research Library (fittingly housed in the basement of the Muirhead Tower in which, on the 8th floor, Cultural Studies resided for many years) and will be added to by Hall’s own papers. Hall’s achievements, influence and legacy - bound up as they are with the Birmingham Centre for Contemporary Studies for a crucial part of his career - will also be debated at an international conference being hosted by the university, in June of this year, to mark the 50th anniversary of the centre’s foundation.
10
7th - 13th March 2014
redbrick.me/comment
Comment
Ukraine: history should teach us to be critical and to remain vigilant David Franklin Commentator
@davidefranklin
A wealth of UK media coverage has depicted the unfolding Ukraine crisis. But it largely focuses on global consequences. Internally, there is cause for concern too, for reasons that resemble certain similarities to the past. In 1847, my family formed part of the 521-strong Jewish community in Konotop, Ukraine, 150 miles North-East of Kiev. By 1897, this rose to 4,426 (23% of the population) following pogroms in Russia. Konotop was just within the “Pale of Settlement”, sections of the Russian Empire where Jews were “legally authorised” to live.
"The Situation in Ukraine is developing, volatile and dangerous" Pogroms reached Konotop in 1881, following the assassination of Tzar Alexander II – for which many blamed the Jews. The 1917-21 Ukrainian Civil War saw further attacks. Six were killed on September 19, 1919 by the volunteer army of Anton Denikin, a general within the anti-communist ‘White Movement’. In 1923, the city’s cheders (religious schools) were shut, it’s teachers convicted. By 1930 three synagogues had closed, one remained. In 1939 – two years before the Nazis invaded – the Konotop Jewish community numbered 3,941 (8.6% of the population). The narrative under Nazi occupation was
unsurprising. In 1979, just 1,000 Jews remained (1.2% of the population). Fortunately, my family left Konotop in the late 1800's. It is unclear why they chose to go, or whether they were forced. Nevertheless, along with thousands of other Jewish refugees/migrants, they arrived at Liverpool docks unable to speak a word of English and without a penny to their names. So why mention all of this? The situation in Ukraine is developing, volatile and dangerous. Most Western news sources express concern at the deployment of Russian troops. They claim that this move is provocative. This is true. The narrative is also unsurprising. The story of a pro-EU uprising, which exercised ‘people power’ in overthrowing the Russian-leaning President is symptomatic of the sort of democracy-adoring, West-loving values that we are implored to applaud. Moreover, that the provocations come from the ‘bigoted’, ‘corrupt’, ‘imperialist Russians’, (who don’t forget, effectively annexed two regions of Georgia in 2008) makes them a clear target for our derision. However, limited attention has been given to the discourse emanating from Russia. Now, to be clear, I’m not suggesting that Putin is trustworthy, nor that his record on political intervention and human rights is anything to extol. But, Russian justifications for intervention are not wholly untruthful. They frequently refer to “defending human rights against ultra-nationalist threats” who “intend to make use of the fruits of their victory to attack human rights and fundamental freedoms of minorities”. Nationalism is self evident within the recent uprisings. They were sparked by ordinary Ukrainians, unhappy with the extent of
Russian influence over their government. They wanted to reassert their autonomy. Putin understandably sees this as a threat to Russia’s interests. So far so good.
"Now, to be clear, I'm not suggesting that Putin is trustworthy, nor that his record on political intervention and human rights is anything to extol" However, there is a darker side. One ultra-nationalist leader made worrying (and all too familiar) comments to the BBC: “The main confrontation is about some ethnic groups having control of many business structures, some economic, some political forces. Russians and Jews, some nonUkranian groups control huge percent of some economic or political power”. His faction, C14 are constituents of the political party, Svoboda (Freedom). Svoboda have four cabinet seats, out of twenty in the new coalition led by Yulia Tymoshenko’s centre-right “Batkivschchyna” (Fatherland). Svoboda politician, Oleksandr Sych is a Vice Prime Minister. So, the new government is definitely on the right of the political spectrum, which suggests that many protestors were also. It’s important to remember, many Ukrainians still conflate modern ‘Russian Imperialism’ with ‘Soviet Imperialism’. 'Ukraine’s struggle for independence is
plagued by memories of fascism. Nationalists fought more than once against the Soviets in the last century, even when it meant aligning with Nazi Germany.' During the Ukrainian Civil war, many conflated ‘Jews’ with ‘communists’. The anti-communist White Movement killed fifty thousand Ukrainian Jews between 1918-20. It is not unreasonable to suggest that many might make similar general assumptions today, equating ‘Jew’ with ‘Pro-Russian’ or ‘Pro-Yanukovych’ In pro-Russian areas, there is cause for concern too. On 24th February, the Giymat Rosa Synagogue in Zaporizhia, Eastern Ukraine was firebombed. Swastikas and “Death to Jews” were reportedly sprayed on a synagogue in Ner Tamid, Simferopol, Crimea. Anatoly Gendin, head of the Association of Jewish Organizations and Communities of Crimea states: 'Since the crisis began prices went up by 30 percent, pensions aren’t being paid. As usual, Jews are blamed [for] these disasters and Jews are held responsible. I am afraid to think how this will progress.' In the Wests rush to support the new Ukrainian government, fight Russian aggression and extol the virtues of ‘democracy’ and ‘anti-imperialism’, we must be mindful of the dark side to this crisis. The new government harbours some concerning elements. With the job completed, and other things to worry about, many more moderate protestors have returned to their homes. Many from more radical groups still roam the streets in gangs. The Ukrainian Jewish community faces some uncertainty. Traditional anti-semitic rhetoric and conspiracy theories remain pervasive, the dangers are from all sides.
12
redbrick.me/film
7th - 13th March 2014
Film
Focus on: The Oscars 2014 Film Editor Becky McCarthy discusses the results of this year's Academy Awards ceremony...
Review: The Book Thief
Details Release date: 26th February 2014 Director: Brian Percival Cast: Sophie Nélisse, Geoffrey Rush, Emily Watson Running time: 131 minutes IMDB rating: 7.7
´´´´´ Hannah Stevens This year’s Academy Awards Ceremony has been eagerly anticipated. As usual, excitement among fans centred around who would take home the prestigious awards, but due to the high standard of nominees, this year was set to be one to remember. After one of the most memorable twelve months for film, it was difficult to ascribe a single favourite to each category, the result being that the acclaimed prizes were difficult to predict. So, who actually won? Gravity, the space-thriller starring Sandra Bullock and George Clooney cleaned up across the board, winning seven awards in total, including Best Cinematography, Best Editing, and a Best Director nod for Alfonso Cuaron. Unusually, the awards for Best Director and Best Film, which are usually congruous, were split this year with Steve McQueen’s biographical depiction of Solomon Norfolk, a man who was captured and forced into slavery in 12 Years a Slave, being awarded Best Film.
"Gravity, the spacethriller starring Sandra Bullock and George Clooney cleaned up across the board, winning seven awards in total" Cate Blanchett won the award for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her work in Woody Allen’s Blue Jasmine, in which she played Jasmine, a depressed alcoholic who
is recovering from a lifestyle adjustment following a divorce. Matthew McConaughey was also recognised for his work in Dallas Buyers Club, an account of Ron Woodroof, a real-life figure who fought to introduce new treatment of AIDS after being diagnosed with the disease, winning the award for Best Actor in a Leading Role. Favourite Jared Leto won Best Actor in a Supporting Role for his performance alongside McConaughey, where he played Rayon, a homosexual cross-dresser who is also suffering from HIV. Lupita Nyong’o gave an emotional acceptance speech after receiving the award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her performance in 12 Years a Slave in which she plays Patsey, a slave who is persecuted by her master. 12 Years a Slave picked up another accolade in the category of Best Adapted Screenplay which celebrates the work of writer John Ridley who translated Solomon Norfolk’s biographical account of slavery onto the screen. Spike Jonze was also rewarded for his work on Her, a film which depicts a man who falls in love with his computer, receiving the award for Best Original Screenplay. Other awards worth noting here are the award given to Disney’s Frozen, which won Best Animated Feature, and to Catherine Martin who was recognised for her costume design in The Great Gatsby. Furthermore, the Best Foreign Language Film was awarded to the Italian film The Great Beauty which was directed by Paolo Sorrentino, whilst Morgan Neville‘s 20 Feet from Stardom won Best Documentary Feature. Similar to David O’Russell’s success with last year’s nominations for Silver Lining’s Playbook, American Hustle also had nominations in the four acting categories. Shockingly, however, despite being
nominated for a total of ten awards, the crime drama walked away with nothing, leaving nominated cast members Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence empty handed. This comes as a surprise when considering Lawrence’s Best Actress Award last year and her BAFTA win this year.
"Shockingly, despite being nominated for a total of ten awards, David O'Russell's crime drama American Hustle walked away with nothing" The reactions so far to this year’s winners seems relatively accepting, with critics focusing more closely on nomination snubs, most notably surrounding Tom Hanks’s performance in biopic Captain Phillips and the Coen Brother’s depiction of a young, struggling folk singer in Inside Llewyn Davis. Whether or not you support Award Ceremonies, there is no denying that this year’s Academy Awards highlight the high standard of cinema which has been produced over the last twelve months. Both emotionally and technically strenuous, the recognised films have advanced and extended the bounds of film, reaching out to new audiences, and drawing attention to emerging talent. For this reason, the Oscars have proved to be another triumph and a celebration of immense achievement.
Critic
The adaption of the acclaimed novel by Markus Zusak is an exploration of the brutal Nazi regime that starkly contrasts with the life journey of an innocent girl attempting to navigate Nazi Germany. Many were apprehensive about how the novel would translate onto the big screen, and they were right to be. The film is stunning cinematically, but often becomes confused with the shift between English and German throughout. The presence of the Nazi party looms over the characters throughout, and the audience are never allowed to forget the world these innocent people live in. The film provides a rare point of view of wartime Germany; by looking at the struggles of the civilians affected we are given an entirely new insight into the world of war. The central plot revolves around the family’s protection of the Jew, Max, which is a heart-warming theme of the film, but the acting still leaves much to be desired. Even Geoffrey Rush does little to endear the audience to their hardships, and Sophie Nelisse’s debut as the lead role does little to show off her talents. The film somehow fails to invoke an emotional response despite its dealings with such a difficult, and often haunting, subject. Instead it delivers the story in such a mild manner that we are left feeling little empathy for the characters or their plight. Although the exploration of the children’s attempts to make sense of the world around them in wartime is moving, it doesn’t quite make up for the overall blandness of the film. Sadly even the humorous voice over from Death as he follows Liesel’s trials doesn’t manage to redeem The Book Thief from its dreariness.
redbrick.me/film
7th - 13th March 2014
13
Film News Becky McCarthy Film Editor
Director Ben Wheatley has announced that he is set to make a film adaptation of J. G. Ballard's High-Rise. Starring Tom Hiddleston as the lead role Dr. Robert Laing, the film will depict inhabitants of an ultra-modern, luxurious multi-storey building which acts as a metaphorical microcosm of society.
Girls star, Adam Driver is rumoured to have been cast as the villian in J.J.Abrams' upcoming Star Wars: Episode VII. Although Disney and Lucasfilm have failied to comment on the truth of this rumour, with shooting starting in April/May, casting announcements are sure to be surfacing in the next few weeks.
Review: Nymphomaniac Online Film Editor Ben Jackson reviews one of this year's most controversial films...
Details Release date: 22nd Febuary 2014 Director: Lars von Trier Cast: Charlotte Gainsbourg, Stellan Skarsgård, Stacy Martin Running time: 118 minutes
you tell a story. Lars von Trier is completely unafraid to spoon-feed cues during Joe’s confessional segments in Seligman’s undecorated, monastic room between chapters: “Which way will you get the most out of my story?” she asks. “By believing in it? Or not believing in it?” Are we meant to doubt Nymphomaniac’s authenticity? There are glaring coincidences (which Seligman is happy to point out – but is this really as simple as von Trier commenting on himself?). This undercutting (here, of narration) is a technique employed again and again throughout the film: just when you think you have something interesting, it feels a little too obvious.
IMDB rating: 7.7
´´´´´ Ben Jackson Online Film Editor
What is Nymphomaniac about? Well, it’s about Joe. Joe (Charlotte Gainsbourg) is discovered unconscious in an alley by Seligman (Stellan Skarsgard), who helps her inside to a bed and a cup of tea. She is cynicism warmed-up, spitting that she is a “bad human being” at the tender, attentive Seligman, who argues that she is not. Joe proceeds to detail her life – synonymously, her sex life – in 8 chapters over two 2-hour films. We see everything, from a who-can-getthe-most-guys game to her father in hospital, and it is often explicit tumultuous relationships which thrash about onscreen. It’s not a film to surprise you then, if you’ve seen the trailer and, perhaps, watched some of the director Lars von Trier’s films before. It has his mark all over it, and he has drafted in an ever-impressive cast to drive home the emotional punches, which come with patient viciousness. Let’s start where you don’t expect: Nymphomaniac is about narration, and how
"Nymphomaniac is not just about sex - but it is about sex. Seligman is asexual, making him the perfect sounding board for Joe's stories" It has been said that Nymphomaniac is ‘jokey’ and lacks the posturing of the director’s other work. There are some onscreen graphics and playful, short, surreal streams of images: these create a light-hearted atmosphere. There are plenty of moments and characters to laugh at. But there is a great deal of sadness, and an endless number of difficult topics (difficult for Joe, difficult to watch, and difficult in and of themselves). There is no consistent syntax, and the constant under-cutting and the brashness of interpretations and references are symptoms of Nymphomaniac’s refusal to let you understand its language. Nymphomaniac is not just about sex – but it is about sex. Seligman is asexual, making him a perfect sounding board for Joe’s stories, and often their talks (that inter-
sperse the chapters) are geared towards debating human, and, more specifically, female, sexuality. Furthermore, the interchapter discussions tend towards a deconstruction of characters’ assumptions (without ever being conclusive): “I’m predisposed to disagree with your arguments” says Joe. The sex scenes themselves have been done with great technical skill – the actors and actresses have been ‘joined’ in postproduction to identical shots of their porndoubles – and, indeed, show more sex than I had ever seen in a cinema before. It does make you squirm a little, and I think there is the potential to be aroused by some scenes – just as, in others, there is great potential to be turned off – and if you’re hesitant about taking your nan, probably best to give it a miss. But Nymphomaniac boasts a very grown-up representation of sex – and that is perhaps this film’s crowning achievement. You cannot leave Nymphomaniac without a topic of discussion, and maybe that’s what the film is about. In his only real moment of love and care, Jerome (LaBeouf) tries to deal with Joe’s sexuality (eventually in vain) and though his terrible pain is only briefly glimpsed before he returns later on, it sets up a character who is recognisable from other onscreen relationships, but in other films never explained. In Nymphomaniac, von Trier has managed to find real roots in a sexual relationship that beget a volatile future for a once-happy couple. Elsewhere, Uma Thurman’s chapter (‘Mrs H’) is a blistering and uncompromising study of a broken family that perhaps marks one of the film’s high points. Nymphomaniac is a film which certainly raises issues. It does not create them, or add to them, but it is relevant. Admittedly, the introverted nature gives away the director’s self-imposed seclusion and perhaps won’t feel so relevant for some. As von Trier is want, Nymphomaniac can certainly be frustrating, especially in its ending, which still escapes me for comment. But the film is never anything less than exciting, powerful and a one-of-a-kind achievement.
Arnold Schwarzenegger has revealed that the upcoming addition to the Terminator franchise, Genesis, will involve re-visiting scenes from Terminator 1 & 2. It is rumoured that the film will centre heavily around the character of Sarah Connor, who will be played by Game of Thrones star Emilia Clarke.
It has been announced that Vincent D'Onofrio and Irrfan Khan have been cast in Jurassic World, which is set to be released in July 2015. Reports state that D'Onofrio will fulfill the role of villain, whilst Khan's role remains ambiguous. The names add to an ever-growing cast of the film, including Bryce Dallas Howard, Chris Pratt, Nick Robinson and Ty Simpkins.
14
redbrick.me/tech
7th - 13th March 2014
Science & Technology
CSI:SMS Beth Carney explores the forensics behind everyday text messages! We all have our own style of texting, be it shortening words, inserting emoticons or the number of 'x’s at the end of a message. Many people think nothing of these subtle changes and probably don’t even notice the slight differences between each texter’s style, but the police are now teaming up with linguists to help solve crimes through text analysis. Just on the other side of Birmingham at the University of Aston, Dr Tim Grant is the director of the Centre for Forensic
"Police are teaming up with linguists to help solve crimes through text analysis." Linguistics (CFL) and is at the forefront of this field of research. Electronic communication methods have allowed for spoken dialects and slang to be incorporated into our written vocabulary. To an outsider of a dialect, the language used can not only look and sound confusing, but the meanings of the words may also be unknown. Tim Grant and his team work on solving the mystery behind words and identifying
structural characteristics of texts. For the analysis of texts to be used in court, the CFL have to show that their forensic methods are reliable and wellfounded in theory. Their work is based on the concept of idiolects and linguistic uniqueness. Methods have been developed to analyse longer texts and short texts like SMS text and Twitter. These techniques have been used to help solve cases of fraud, stalking and murder. When people communicate through text messages or online communication, the language style, word choice and grammar they use is fairly consistent in each instance. Therefore, one texter’s message is distinctive from another and an imposter can be spotted. Although this type of forensic work has been a recent focus in the news featuring some high profile cases, the skills of analysing text forensically has been around for many years. Malcom Coulthard, also based at Aston’s Centre for Forensic Linguistics, aided the posthumous pardon of Derek Bentley in 1998. He proved that the recorded confession from Bentley had actually been heavily edited by the police. It’s easy to demonstrate the differences between two people’s idiolects, try with a friend to write a text explaining you’ll be late for a lecture because of a delayed bus. It doesn’t matter how many people you get to do it – no one’s message will be exactly the same!
Creature Feature: Red Panda! You may not know it, but you look at a red panda every time you boot up Firefox to search for something. Yes, this cuddly cat lookalike is the basis for Mozilla Firefox's well known logo. Also known as the shining cat, red pandas mostly spend their days munching on bamboo in Nepal, India and parts of China.
Getting a feel for things George Bearman
Online Science and Tech Editor
Fujitsu, the Japanese technology company, have come up with a quirky new haptic technology that could soon be another feature of the smart device. At the Mobile World Congress 2014, which ran from the 24-27th of February, they presented a prototype tab-
"Fujitsu were able to recreate the feeling of different textures" let that could simulate various sensations when touching its screen. Using ultrasonic vibrations to create friction, Fujitsu were able to recreate the feeling of different textures. Through high-pressure and a thin layer of air they were able to make users feel as though their fingers were gliding across a slippery surface.
Alternatively, via a mixture of low-friction and high-friction zones they were able to make the screen feel bumpy or rough. The effect of this is that Fujitsu’s device would allow you to pull up a picture of, say, an alligator and be able to feel its skin, all from a safe distance. And, if that doesn’t impress you, imagine plucking the strings of a harp, having a go on a mixing deck, or even being able to open a vault. The possibilities are endless. This might sound futuristic and far off, but Fujitsu plan to have this haptic technology in your hands by 2015. In fact, the idea of tactile touch isn’t necessarily anything new. Other technology companies, like Tactus, have designed a device with invisible buttons that can pop up and disappear from a flat screen at will. And Disney has also developed a virtual texture experience that uses vibrations to simulate the feel of objects. But by using ultrasonic vibrations to be able to feel a slippery or rough surface is definitely a new take on things. If nothing else, it means that a smart device which lets you feel the things you see is getting ever more real.
redbrick.me/tech
7th - 13th March 2014
15
Breakthrough in vaccine transport Soumya Perinparajah looks into the findings of a recent vaccine campaign in Benin. The standard conditions for storing and distributing vaccines is called the ‘cold chain’, where the temperature is maintained within the range of 2-8 degrees Celsius. Published just over two weeks ago in Vaccine, a novel method of vaccine transportation has recently been proven to be successful. MenAfriVac is the first vaccine to get approved for ‘controlled temperature chain’ (CTC) distribution; it was used successfully in a mass vaccine campaign against Meningitis A in Benin 2012, and has the potential to revolutionise vaccine transportation in warmer climates. CTC uses a higher temperature for the last mile of distribution, eradicating the need for
ice, which is necessary for the cold chain. Instead, coolboxes, similar to those used for picnics stored the vaccine.
"CTC uses a higher temperature for the last mile of distribution, eradicating the need for ice" The findings in Vaccine show that only 9 out of 15,000 vials of MenAfriVac were discarded and none due to heat damage. These
Sensational science: Too good to be true? Claire Harris
Science and Tech Editor
Controversy is a word we hear in science surprisingly often for a discipline that is supposed to be firmly based on facts. Recently, a paper claiming to have discovered an easy and quick method of making stem cells has come under fire by the wider scientific community for image manipulation. It got me thinking; how much can we be sure of ‘scientifically proven fact’? For the most part,
results were obtained due to stickers in the vials which turned red on heat exposure, with an additional card present which changed colour if temperatures were higher than 40 degrees. This exciting development is especially beneficial for hot countries, where reduced electricity and refridgeration may compromise the biochemical integrity of vaccines, which is particularly devastating when high-need areas are not reached.
studying a degree in science has meant that I have been encouraged to criticise papers, and pick out their flaws. But should this be necessary? To a certain extent, we as the public often assume that, if a piece of work has been published in a high standing journal such as Nature or Science, then the work must be flawless and certain. In real terms, this isn’t always the case. Why, then, is it that so many papers are retracted every year? Even more prevalent is a plethora of papers to disprove someone else’s work. Sensationalist papers that claim
more than they have actually achieved might only seem to be a disappointment when proved false. However, there are serious ramifications too. Medical journals are plagued with drugs that appear on paper to be more effective than they actually are. So what then is the impact for the patients? Coming from a scientific background, I have heard all too often that the main aim for a scientist is to get their work published. However, this often means that politics plays a part, for example rushed research in order to release a paper before a competing team. I acknowledge that there is a huge pressure on those in science to constantly deliver groundbreaking research. Therein lies the temptation though; interpretation is largely subjective, so does it really hurt to tweak what the results mean? All papers must go through a selection process of being peer reviewed by other scientists. Despite this, there is no guarantee that things won’t slip through the net. There have been several spoofed articles submitted to journals in the past to see if they will still be accepted. One such recent example was rigged by Science itself, claiming to have found a cure for cancer in lichen. They sent
"All papers must go through a selection process of being peer reviewed. Despite this, there is no guarantee that things won't slip through the net." their bogus results to open-access journals, which are freely available for public use, to ascertain whether the peer review process was adequate. Out of 106 open-access journals that peer reviewed the completely falsi-
Follow us online www.redbrick.me/tech @redbricktech
fied experiments, a whopping 70% accepted the study for publication. The bigger journals aren’t blemish free either; Science itself was responsible for printing a highly fraudulent stem cell paper in 2004 by Woo Suk Hwang and his research team. Sadly it seems that most researchers could be caught in a catch-22 type situation. Risk bigging up your results to make it into high-impact journals, or publish honest nonsensational research in less well known
"Out of 106 open-access journals that peer reviewed the completely falsified experiments, a whopping 70% accepted the study for publication." journals with worse reputations. So, is it time that the scientific community change the way its publishing and reviews work? Already in physics, a change has been implemented, in which studies are mass peer reviewed after release. Widely physicists will upload draft versions of their work to online archives prior to review and publication. The way science is reviewed currently has come under much scrutiny. In my opinion, we cannot really blame anyone for trying to enhance their work, given the alternative of being looked over in favour of headline-making science. However, I believe that science should be carried out in the pursuit of truth, to make sense of our world, and answer the questions we do not yet know. Until the importance of good quality science catches up to the impact factor, we will still be at risk of false or exaggerated breakthroughs.
16
redbrick.me/music
7th - 13th March 2014
Music
Redbrick Meets: Dave Wakeling Jack Crowe Music Critic
'We couldn’t find any chains to fit our tyres' says Dave Wakeling cheerfully. 'They say you’re supposed to have chains on this road through the Rockies. So this six hour journey might have a ten hour detour. Either way I’ve got plenty of time to chat.' The lead singer of seminal Birmingham band, The Beat, is en route to his next gig in Seattle. In its original incarnation, which Wakeling co-fronted with toaster, Ranking Roger, The Beat were at the centre of the two-tone ska movement. Along contemporaries such as The Specials and The Selecter, they fused the energy of punk with the reggae rhythms introduced by Caribbean immigrants to create an infectious danceable music that swept the nation in the late seventies and early eighties. 'Before the band we used to run house parties all round Birmingham. When we played just punk songs, everyone would go mad for a bit and then left. And when we just played reggae the dance floor was full but no-one was really dancing. Dancing inside, that’s what they called it.' Dave chuckles. 'But when we played both, everyone danced all night long. So that’s what we tried to do in The Beat.' After three studio albums, a string of hit singles, including the anthemic 'Stand Down Margaret', and 'Mirror in the Bathroom', and further success with splinter group, General Public, Dave settled in California in the late nineteen eighties. His new band tours America as The English Beat (an anomaly dating back to the group’s heyday when there was already an American pop group called The Beat). He talks fondly of his youth working on building sites around Birmingham, how he would look out over the city thinking up song lyrics and dreaming of being in a band. 'Then my Dad got me a guitar', he says. 'He met the manager of [Birmingham band] The Rockin’ Berries on the way back from The Selly Park Tavern. He was pissed off with them, and flogged Dad one of their guitars.' Another cornerstone of the Beat’s unique sound was the syncopated rasps of nearmythical saxophonist, Saxa. A generation older than the rest of the band, he had already worked with 1960s Jamaican Ska artists, such as Prince Buster and Desmond Dekker. 'We used to watch him play Jazz in the
city centre; he was brilliant. So we asked him to play on [our first single] 'Tears of a Clown'. His solos were always so inventive; he could say more than I ever could with my lyrics.' Saxa’s influence, though, was more than just musical. 'I used to throw up before shows, I got so nervous. This concerned Saxa, so one day took me to a window and said "See these people in the rain David. They leave the house, they get wet, they wait for the bus, they stand in the queue and get wet again, they pay to see you play your songs, they leave, they get wet, they wait for the bus, they get wet, and finally they get home. And yet they’re happy because they love music so much. You’re dry – you didn’t have to get the bus. And you get in for free." I never got sick before a show again.' Dave hopes Saxa will be at the show next week. He moves on to saying his new act cannot be compared to the original The Beat. 'There was a naive charm back then. In some ways this is a little more polished, and it would be socially disconnected for us to play exactly the same as the record. I just play how and what I feel the crowd wants next. There’s no set list.' Throughout, though, Dave talks glowingly of his former bandmates, especially Steele’s bass playing ('The real Mozart of the band'). He and Ranking Roger have drifted apart over the years; their estrangement being characterised as a feud, at least by those seeking music paper headlines. Roger fronts his own version of The Beat in the UK, along with his son, Ranking Junior, and original drummer Everett Morton. For the only time, Dave's deadpan betrays a cautionary note. 'It's strange having to play as The English Beat in my hometown. But that’s how it is. It doesn’t have to be a competition, but if people choose to make it one I’ll win.' However, in spite of this, his voice comes most alive when talking about Birmingham. 'I went to the further education college by the railway bridge in Selly Oak. [Beat guitarist] Andy Cox got an A. I got an A-. Great chip shops.' He can’t remember any. I suggest Adam’s Place and, of course, he remembers immediately. 'And all those students paying high rents, not there for long enough to complain. Should get yourself a house down there Dave. Nice little investment.' Equally acerbic asides follow, from tales of pristine Jazzmen in The Cannonball on Adderly Street, to teenage chat up lines in the MAC (the inspiration for 'Hands Off She’s Mine').
'I have so many associations with Cannon Hill Park: sitting with girlfriends, walking my dogs, family funeral receptions. My son played football there last time we visited.' And, nearer still, he saw John Martyn at The University Guild in the 1970s. 'Some chemistry student wandered in through the stage door. John asked him what he was up to and said that he was just in the middle of this gig thing, if the guy wouldn’t mind him carrying on!' From Van Morrison to Toots and the Maytals to the Velvet Underground, the list of influences grows. We go on chatting about music, discussing favourite bass players, the merits of re-
mastering, and new music (he particularly recommends Foster the People). As a part of pop history, Dave Wakeling has seen and done a lot. Most strikingly, he is able to share and laugh at his experiences without pretension. He retains a balance of frankness and likeability through the particularly Brummie sense of fun that identifies him so much with this city. The songs he wrote for The Beat continue to mean something to Birmingham more, perhaps, than those of any other performer. When his tour bus arrives outside the O2 on Sunday there will be quite a party.
Single Review: Paolo Nutini Scream (Funk My Life Up) Gabriela Quattromini
Music Critic After a seemingly endless absence from the limelight, Paolo Nutini has caught the world by surprise with the news that he will be releasing his third studio album Caustic Love this April, five years after the release of the hugely successful Sunny Side Up. Nutini ironically ended this painfully silent hiatus with the release of the appropriately named single 'Scream (Funk My Life Up)', and it was quite worth the wait. There is no denying that, by the sounds of this track, Nutini has evolved and has seemingly abandoned his folksy Sunny Side Up days for an edgier, unapologetic sass. Despite having rather uninspiring, forgettable lyrics, the track is bursting with energy and dynamism. Nutini has stated that he doesn’t think his new album is going to change the world;
rather that he wants to give us something to dance to and enjoy. 'Scream' is a perfect ambassador for this ambition, with its infectious bassline, nostalgically familiar trumpets and saxophones, and Nutini’s classic, ruggedly soulful vocals. He delivers an expectedly vivacious performance and doesn’t shy away from weaving in some conspicuous innuendos to rival the previously subtle, more poetic hints as in 2009’s 'Candy'. At the risk of sounding like Captain Obvious, Nutini has grown in the last five years and his celebrated, eclectic sound has joined him along the way. Long gone are the adolescent days of singing about shoes; make way for the days of a newly-single Scotsman crooning about women funking his life up. It’s hard to disagree that Paolo Nutini has pulled another feel-good scorcher out of the bag, just in time for summer.
redbrick.me/music
7th - 13th March 2014
17
Tweet of the Week:
@arzE: never giv up on ur dreams 2014
Redbrick Meets: Meridian Dan Blaise Radley Music Critic
Single Review: Shy Nature - Lie Back Beth Coveney Music Critic
For anyone with a Maccabees-shaped hole in their lives at the moment, look no further than London-based quartet Shy Nature. After mild success last year, the band are set to take 2014 by storm with their effortlessly addictive latest single 'Lie Back', released alongside their first ever UK tour taking place later this month. Drawing obvious comparisons to the likes of The Maccabees, Mystery Jets and Vampire Weekend, 'Lie Back' is an indie anthem full of infectious guitar riffs, singalong vocals, gorgeous melodies and an overarching sense of unrelenting energy that make it the perfect fun indie-pop song. The only obvious next step would be to separate themselves from the hordes of ‘indie’ guitar bands that have already done it all to death. Shy Nature are a band to whom guitar classics couldn’t come more naturally, and with 'Lie Back' seeming to be by far their strongest effort yet, it will be exciting to see what they offer next.
Single Review: Coldplay - Magic Matt Moody Music Editor
Coldplay's ascent from biggest band in the UK to challenger for biggest band in the world seems to have intensified Chris Martin's inner struggle as a songwriter: while a part of him yearns for the critical acclaim that has always just eluded his band, his commitment to keeping their evergrowing fanbase happy is clear. After following up Viva La Vida - as critically acclaimed as it was experimental - with a chart-smashing, Rihanna-featuring fifth album that couldn't have been more 'pop', all the signs so far are pointing to a sixth album that finally strikes the balance. While the Jon Hopkins produced first cut from the upcoming 'Ghost Stories' split fans straight down the middle with heavily distorted vocals and no obvious hook, 'Magic' keeps the on-trend, sleek production and throws in a more traditional Coldplay chorus. The only let down here is Martin's lyrics: it's hard to believe the words 'If you were to ask me/after all that we've been through/if you believe in magic/yes I do!' were written by the same man who did 'sincere but simple' so effectively on songs like 'Green Eyes'.
Chatting with one of the Grime Scene's hottest up-and-coming artists instead of leafing through my burgeoning pile of reading was undoubtedly a surreal way to start the week. Given Grime's reputation for dark, industrial beats and the ferocious way in which emcees tackle each and every line, when the phone began to dial it was difficult to know what to expect. Thankfully Meridian Dan starts the interview by jokingly quizzing me about the origins of my name, showing that the rapid success of his latest single has not affected his humility. In fact, when questioned about the overnight popularity of 'German Whip', he explains how it had 'been more of a constant growth rather than one moment where I was like, oh, it blew up.' Grime heads will know that though the latest track has received a large amount of attention, Meridian Dan is somewhat of a veteran of the scene, having once been a member of 'Meridian Crew' alongside Skepta and JME, even performing a verse on Skepta's underground hit 'Private Caller'. As the conversation turns to the commercial impact of these peers, he suggests their success was almost inevitable, stating 'you'll listen to your parents and grandparents and they'll talk about these big crazes, it happens all the time'. Dan pauses for a moment, then reflects on the idea that he just wants to make music rather than focussing on what other people think, stating that 'the fact underground music is becoming popular is not a bad thing'. On his label signing with PMR and what his new record holds in store for us, his answer, for obvious reasons, is somewhat cryptic. However, he does reveal that he's 'working on a new grime sound like you haven't heard before'. What this refers to in particular is unclear, his lips firmly sealed as he is pressed for more information regarding future collaborations. Interestingly, when asked about his opinion of more recent grime artists he laughs, saying that he's not 'a huge listener of the scene'. He admits that though he may recognise a track or a friend's flow here or there, he's not hugely concerned with 'who the next big thing is'. With the more obvious questions pushed to one side, we discuss his relationships with the big names he once formed Meridian Crew with. Even over the telephone the warmth in his tone is evident as he explains how he's 'still close with everyone', as evidenced by JME's appearance on his most recent work. As the mood lightens I ask Dan how he would explain his music to a newcomer in five words. Pondering for a second, claiming that 'this question has thrown' him, he then says that the appropriate words would be 'different', 'new', 'fresh', 'exciting' and 'bangers'. It would be difficult to put it any better.
Album Review: Beck Morning Phase Matt Robinson Music Critic
Beck’s new release, Morning Phase, his twelfth album to date, has been described as a companion piece to his 2002 album Sea Change, and one can see the parallels. Both albums are certainly written by the same Beck, a thoughtful, contemplative and more laid back Beck than the man who wrote Mellow Gold, his breakthrough album in 1994. Morning Phase is very much placed in the americana, soft rock tradition of Neil Young’s Harvest and the canon of Crosby, Stills and Nash. Chords played on acoustic guitars float around as Beck’s voice, perhaps better now than it has ever been, drifts through the ether with an other-worldly quality. Morning Phase is soaked in melancholy, each song brings a sombre atmosphere yet there is an overall feeling of hope lying across the album. It is in its unity that the record shows itself to be the great piece of work it is, each song brings a different view
on the same feelings, adding, never detracting from the overall statement of the album. There are few misses here but 'Wave', with its string arrangement and the echo on Beck’s voice, comes close, it strikes as too grandiose and dramatic in tone, which jars slightly with the overall sound of the record but might be welcomed by some as a relief from the downbeat subtlety that is so rife. By far the best song on the album is the beautiful 'Turn Away'. The simplicity of the acoustic guitar and the harmonising voices combine leaving something which takes you to another place and forces you into introspection. It is difficult to say whether Morning Phase can top Beck's earlier work. It doesn’t feel like Beck has moved forward in his music, but rather settling into a general acceptance of it - perhaps his sound is better because of this. This record is certainly one of the best albums of the year so far and is a stunning thing to listen to. As the last note is played, Beck has overall managed to assert that the world just might be a better place than you initially thought.
18
redbrick.me/arts
7th - 13th March 2014
Arts
'A Little Gay History' Lecture
Closer look at:
John Bower
Bethany Barley and Riyah Collins
Critic
Richard B. Parkinson, author of A Little Gay History: Desire and Diversity across the World (2013), gave a stimulating lecture on the importance of LGBT history (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender), at the Barber Institute this past Monday. As LGBT history month comes to a close, Parkinson noted that, "our past is not necessarily heterosexual, and LGBT is an integral part of our history." Parkinson said that despite some of the explicit material in his book it was generally received well by the public. He continued by recognising that The British Museum’s decision to publish the book certainly contributed to the book’s success. An institution with such significant academic weighting behind the publication has undoubtedly given LGBT history more credibility in the public domain. A Little Gay History examines a variety of 40 artifacts, ranging from Ancient Egypt to the 21st Century. For example, The Warren Cup (shown here) depicts male homosexuality
and is currently kept at the British Museum in London. At one exhibition "there were no young schoolboys pointing and giggling", says Parkinson. The fact that LGBT artifacts are now being more readily exhibited, and not marginalised, emphasises to Parkinson just how far LGBT rights have come. The British Museum is giving credence to queer history; and despite its occasional comical appearance, LGBT history is certainly no joke. On the other hand, the emerging YouTube videos of the horrific violence and severe homophobic scenes in Russia shows that there is still yet a way to go. While the book does not claim to be the defining study of LGBT history, Parkinson adds that the publication has "practical purposes." He states that it is written for an increase in public awareness. However, Parkinson disappointingly remarked that many people still do not know what LGBT means. The book aims to dispel the myth that the world has been solely heterosexual.
"Yes, for we fight more than Love or Pleasure; there is Truth. Truth counts, Truth does count." A Little Gay History examines a variety of 40 artifacts, ranging from Ancient Egypt to the 21st Century. Parkinson astutely reminds us that, although the LGBT narrative has been one of "silence, oppression, and persecution", it has always been a constant presence in history. Parkinson is pleased with the book’s progress, and he looks forward to the continuation of research into queer history. He adds that the British Museum’s involvement with his work has given the LGBT campaign a significant boost. Finally, Parkinson closed the lecture by quoting EM Forster, who he called, "quietly, and heroically queer."
The Prince of the Pagodas Critics
"Our mission is to promote the study and encouragement of art and music for the benefit of the University of Birmingham and the wider public." The Barber Institute is an art gallery, concert hall, educational centre and heritage sector. It seeks to inspire students and the wider public through scholarly exhibitions and musical performances. Containing an internationally renowned collection of art, including paintings, sculpture, artifacts and works on paper, The Barber Institute of Fine Art hopes to continue to expand and develop this into the future. Located on the University of Birmingham main campus, it is open seven days a week to the general public until 5pm. The building itself was designed by Robert Atkinson, one of Britain’s leading architects of the 1920s and ‘30s. When it opened The Times described the building as “the purest example of his work” and it continues to be regarded as one of his greatest achievements. In 1946 it received a bronze medal from the Royal Institute of British Architects and in 1981 was listed Grade II by the Department of the Environment. The Barber Institute is currently showing exhibitions including ‘New Art West Midlands’, which displays work by local graduates, ‘Family Circles’, which centres around portrait miniatures, ‘Ruby’s Room’ and ‘Faith and Fortune’. Another event to look out for is the regular ‘Lunchtime Concerts’ which are held in the main concert hall and showcase some of the best classical musical works from across the decades. Also, go along to the ‘Tuesday Tours and Talks’ where you can get to know the Barber collection through these informal, informative half-hourly gallery tours. Definitely worth a visit if you’ve got a spare half an hour free! For more information on The Barber Institute, including opening times and what’s coming up, visit: http://barber.org. uk/
As a relatively unfamiliar ballet, we weren’t really sure what to expect from the Birmingham Royal Ballet’s performance of The Prince of the Pagodas. The plot follows the story of a young princess, Sakura (Momoko Hirata), who has suffered a lonely childhood following the disappearance of her brother. Her sadness also strongly affects her father, who has steadily lost his grip on the kingdom. When the time comes for Sakura to marry, she refuses the four worldly suitors that her stepmother (Elisha Willis) has selected for her and instead escapes with a mysterious fifth suitor, The Salamander Prince, who takes her on a treacherous journey to his kingdom before revealing his true identity as her lost brother. Although the performance had a slightly slow and confusing start, by the end we had experienced many moments of brilliance, particularly during a flashback scene where the characters were cleverly matched with their younger selves, making what seemed like a potentially tricky part of the story seem effortless. The most striking aspect of The Prince of Pagodas, however, has to be the breathtaking set. Designed by Rae Smith, best known for the set of War Horse, the stage was framed with giant wood carvings and every scene was made even more magical with enormous flowers, flames and waves descending from the rafters. A moment of tension occurred within the audience during the first act when one of the delicate backdrops ripped, but this merely proved the professionalism of the dancers, as they incorporated this into their routine and carried on effortlessly as though nothing had happened. Choreographer David Bintley, who also directed the company’s previous performance of The Nutcracker, ensured that the dancers themselves were not outshone by such a magnificent set. There were moments on stage that seemed so busy that it was a miracle that no-one bumped into anybody else, yet it was clear that each scene had been choreographed to perfection. Hirata deserves particular credit for such flawless dancing – her grace and poise demanded the audience’s attention from beginning to end, with or without extravagant staging. Special mention must also go to Elisha Willis for her incredible elegance; few people could dress as a gangly octopus and still move so beautifully! Each costume used in the show was a visual feast, ranging from the silly to the sublime as they made incidences such as giant seahorses leaping about the stage and trees which sprung up in seconds flat seem totally normal! The music of the ballet, although not well known in comparison to Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake or Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet, was appropriate for the varied action that occurred, particularly in underwater scenes as the orchestra captured the fluidity and bubbling of the ocean. Despite not having the most natural or best of story lines, what The Prince of Pagodas lacked in an amazing plot, the Birmingham Royal Ballet’s performance made up for in faultless music, dancing, costumes and staging. This fairly little known ballet definitely deserves more attention and needless to say, the beginners’ ballet class should expect two new members very shortly.
redbrick.me/arts
7th - 13th March 2014
19
'Wendy and Peter Pan' What's On: A classic fairytale reworked with a slightly darker side... Bethany Tilston Critic
Imagine a Peter Pan retelling in which Wendy’s actions in Neverland mirror the occurring suffrage movement, a fourth Darling child tragically passes away, and the infamous crocodile is a mutilated doctor with a pocket watch waiting in the shadows for someone to die. This is Neverland as spectacularly reimagined by writer Ella Hickson for the Royal Shakespeare Company’s recent production of Wendy and Peter Pan.
"The adaptation engages with the idea of Peter as a spirit guide alluded to in J M Barrie's original novel" The tale follows Wendy as she flies to Neverland with Peter and her brothers in order to find their family’s ‘lost boy’, their younger brother Tom, as she feels responsible for his death. The adaptation engages with the idea of Peter as a spirit guide alluded to in J M Barrie’s original novel, and brings it to the forefront. It thereby explores death, grief, and gender roles in 1909. The set is beautifully done, with the bedroom furniture
hanging haphazardly from the ceiling to create the forest, and the whole stage lifting up to reveal the Lost Boys’ chaotic ‘home under the ground’. Peter’s ‘shadows’, six other cast members, often carry Peter for his flying scenes, which are very well-staged, even including a dazzling backwards flip. The flying is otherwise created with ropes, which is generally effective, but occasionally causes the scenes to become a little stale and distracted as the actors are hooked up safely. The performance begins with Tom’s death and its negative effect on the Darling family, which takes quite a while to portray, but the pace soon picks up once Peter arrives. The all-adult cast works well as they adopt subtleties that characterise children, and the Lost Boys in particular perform their roles exceedingly convincingly. Tinkerbell is creatively rehashed as a brash curvy Cockney, and Tiger Lily a lone ranger out to avenge the death of her family. The most interesting character, though, is the leading lady Wendy (UoB’s own Fiona Button), as she struggles to balance the responsibility and fun that the boys demand of her. It is her who must finally let go of her grief over Tom’s death to allow him to join the Lost Boys, and her romance with Peter takes a back seat in this adaptation as she focuses on the realisation that anything he can do, she can do better. This play is highly saturated with comedy, meaning it is often quite difficult to settle into as it lacks a clear genre. At times it feels very much aimed at children, but the hard-hitting portrayal of child mortality and resulting broken family seems more of an adult theme. However, it appeals to the mind and the heart, the old and the young, and is therefore a truly magical production that whisked every audience member all the way to Neverland.
Penny for your thoughts: free tickets for reviews Join us Wednesday at 2pm in Student Development The Good, The Bad and The Funny Comedy @ The Drum Friday 7th March 7:30pm 2 Free Tickets (or £10) Russell Kane Comedy @ New Alexandra Wednesday 12th March 8:00pm 2 Free tickets (or £22.40) GRAB (Great Read at Birmingham) Conference @ University of Birmingham 'The Incredible Human Journey' by Prof Alice Roberts Wednesday 12th March 2:00pm Book your free place at: http://www.amiando.com/GRABcon.html
'When I Grow Up' @ Crescent Matt Bullin Critic
When I Grow Up, directed by Raj Jarrett and co-produced by Michael Ekwulugo, is a play that centres around the devastating effect that domestic violence can have on a family, not just on the recipient of the abuse. Seeing as Jarrett and Ekwulugo have both experienced domestic abuse they are able to get to the core of the problem - giving a very raw insight into what can go on behind closed doors. The play was based around the inner conflict of the characters with very little action apart from the obvious example of violence. We saw the characters initial inner mind-set with an opening scene that consisted of five dramatic monologues - one from each of the characters. I did feel this method gave the play a slow start; however it quickly got
"It only got more difficult to watch when the couple's daughter found her mother in this bloodied state." into the hard hitting issues the play was attempting to raise. The aptly named scene, “The incident”, was one of the most distressing scenes I’ve ever witnessed with Ekwulugo’s character Pete displaying openly intimidating dialogue towards his wife Laura (Anita Lee) before culminating in Pete beating his wife to the ground, with strobe lighting and dramatic music adding to the upsetting nature of the scene. It only got more difficult to watch when the couple’s daughter, Alicia (Allysia Funge) found her mother in this bloodied state. Eventually the curtain fell with both the mother and
daughter quietly sobbing together. The rest of the play was a harrowing look at how domestic abuse can affect not only the family of the victim, but also the people surrounding them as well. The tragic ending was a testament to this, with the effect shown on the more minor characters such as the nurse (Angelina Thomas) and Mr. Griffins (Max Fury). The final scene of the play neatly lined up with the opening, with each character giving another dramatic monologue
"A painful, emotionally charged scream" in response to the heart-breaking conclusion. There was a particularly chilling speech from Anita Lee, which opened with a painful, emotionally charged scream, giving the audience a communal wave of goose bumps, before breaking down into a fit of unsettling moans and cries. This disturbing scene was incredibly effective, and the audience were fully engaged with her emotion. A sigh of relief. The play was unquestionably extremely effective and well written, and it certainly did what it was supposed to do in raise awareness about the issue of domestic abuse. After the play had finished there was a short address from police officer, Detective Sergeant Altaf, who gave a powerful speech about some of the issues of domestic abuse she has dealt with, along with some truly perturbing statistics about the crime. After this the director, Jarrett, gave a talk about her own experiences with domestic violence, giving a unique insight into the story. As well as information about her charities ‘Breaking the Silence’ and ‘Grace House’, which she has set up to help people who could be in the same situation she was in.
20
redbrick.me/television
7th - 13th March 2014
Television
One Man's Trash Another Man's Treasure... TV critic Marianna Manson discusses the love/hate genre of reality television... In 1992, MTV aired the first of what would go on to be one of the most significant global phenomenon’s of modern culture, dominating television sets and arguably dulling the intellectual output of an entire generation: The Real World followed the every move of a group of gorgeous twenty-somethings who had been perhaps-not-so-randomly thrown together in a swanky pad in New York, rigged up to the eyeballs with cameras, and given an allowance to fund their every frivolous and debauched whim. In what might now be considered an eerie premonition of the ensuing decades propensities, cast-member Melissa Howard said at the time, ‘I think in a few years’ time there will be ‘Reality TV Anonymous’ self help groups.’ Aired in the year of my birth, The Real World was one reality television programme which I managed to avoid neurotically obsessing over – but with the introduction of Channel 4’s game-changing Big Brother in the year 2000, and the overwhelming onslaught of every imaginable take on the concept since, I cannot pretend that I have been exempt from the social conditioning which has resulted in a nation of young adults concerned far more with the inebriated antics of a house full of hooligans threehundred miles away than with current political affairs, or sometimes basic hygiene. Ok, so that’s a bit of an exaggeration – I’ve yet to succumb to a twelve hour ‘Mortal Marathon’ at the expense of neglecting my social life or rudimentary human upkeep. Yet in this era of empty bank accounts and verging-on-slave-labour-amounts of coursework, it’s fair to say that to be comfortably sat in the living room with my housemates, cup of tea pre-cooled to the optimum sipping temperature to hand, by 10pm on a Monday night for MIC, is definitely pretty high up on my list of priorities. For a long while, I tried to deny the addiction – watching Big Brother in my room was a furtive and abhorrent act, the ruthlessness of my parents’ condemnation of this ‘trash’ regrettably tarring my relationship with reality television.
My love affair with Jersey Shore, too – and Shipwrecked, Laguna Beach, and the various Real Housewives series’ – mainly unfolded via the safety of my neighbour’s laptop, whose parents both demonstrated a far less scathing opinion of them and had a more reliable dial-up connection. At some point in my teens my infatuation wavered – the allure of one day being old enough to actually apply for the holy grail of TV was thwarted as soon as I realised that I much preferred the comfort of my semi-detached in a London suburb than the thought of beheading live chickens or thatching my own shelter on a desert island somewhere perilously close to the Bermuda Triangle – and obsessing over the semi-constructed, glamorised lives of my televised counterparts gave way to my own Real World, riddled as it was with boyfriend turbulence and BTEC-related anxieties.
"My parents weren't immune to the genuis and charm" But the limitations of humdrum student life, particularly enveloped as I am in the laborious throes of third year, brings with it no such melodrama, none of my own momentous episodes to rival those in Essex, or the like. And so it was that I awkwardly, if not apprehensively, re-entered the realm of reality TV. But this time it was different. Equipped as I was with the wordly knowledge of a woman who had experienced such things my fifteen-year-old self could only dream of, a woman who had traversed the perils of that far off reverie known as ‘real life’, reality TV was now something totally different; tongue in cheek, massively addictive, and completely objective. Now that I was able to separate the enjoyment of watch-
ing reality stars wind themselves up in ludicrous social predicaments, or down endless cocktails in extortionate bars I had walked past but never been able to comprehend actually going into, from actually idolising these people as I had done in my youth, the true allure of the concept of ‘fly-on-the-wall’ TV became the psychoanalytical aspect. Admittedly my sturdy middle-class sense of superiority became foully apparent to me as I peered down my nose at the lack of couth demonstrated by the cast of The Valleys, or the unadulterated inanity of the TOWIE girls. But what was undeniable was the sense of centrality I felt to the lives of cast members who were loveable, loathsome, mild and inoffensive or utterly grotesque *cough*Spencer*cough*. In short, watching the various series’ unfold and grow, becoming ever more involved in their fantastical lives, I really started to feel as if I knew these guys. I could truly identify with Charlotte’s agony each and every time she was shunned by Gaz, and it was just so painfully obvious that he loved her back and GODDAMIT WHY CAN’T YOU JUST ACCEPT YOUR FEELINGS YOU MORON?! My feelings toward Louise have spanned quite the spectrum of emotions in my time watching MIC, but familiar with her quirks as I now am I’m able to disregard her obvious weakness in light of the fact that she’s evidently a product of a corrupt social network she just can’t handle, which, you know, isn’t really her fault. Recently I found myself nestled between mum and dad – those same parental units who had so viciously condemned reality television in my teen years – enjoying what
"Reality television is tongue in cheek and massively addictive" has been hailed by many as the best reality TV show ever. A tall order by anyone’s standards – but the concept behind Gogglebox can only be described as utterly brilliant. For someone so intensely mentally stimulated by psychoanalysing the ‘real life’ cast of reality TV, to be able to psychoanalyse people in front of a TV who are, they themselves, psychoanalysing, is literally mind blowing. My parents, too, were apparently far from immune to the genius and charm of the programme. Had I the heart to point out that what they were happily indulging in was the same strand of ‘trash’ they associated with half-witted council-estate trogs, they would have undoubtedly recoiled in horror and refuted vehemently – but the evidence speaks for itself. Reality TV has come a long way since the ground breaking formula debuted by MTV in the 90’s, and I, along with a far greater proportion of the population would care to admit, can’t get enough.
7th - 13th March 2014
redbrick.me/television
21
Throwback Series of the Week: The O.C. Nothing new on? Don't stress. TV Critic Alice Anderson tells us why watching an older television series is just as good as finding something new After years of avoiding the highly popular television series that began in February 2003, I have finally succumbed to the delights of The O.C., a teen drama created by John Schwartz that follows the lives of the young, rich and outrageous of Newport Beach, Orange County, California. The first series opens with the entrance of Ryan Atwood (Benjamin McKenzie) who is a troubled teen from a tough background who is taken on by the Cohen’s, Sandy, Kirsten, and their socially awkward yet lovable son, Seth (Adam Brody). The series follows their lives, with endless drama between the girl next door, Marissa Cooper, played by a fresh-faced 17-year-old Mischa Barton, and Seth’s childhood sweetheart Summer, played by Rachel Bilson.
nostalgia that comes with a throwback series that began ten years ago. The outfits are midriff-baring with bandanas occasionally making an appearance, and the music suggests the Killers are a small and relatively unknown band. The early 2000s feel like a long time ago, and with it there is a dated aspect to the lovable yet somewhat rose-
tinted views The O.C. portrays. But there are huge benefits to starting a series that has already been completed - I haven’t had to wait around for the mid-season break to be over. I haven’t had to hold my breath for a week to see where Ryan and Marissa end up. All I have had to do is click next on the box set, which is also at a benefi-
cially low price due to the aging nature of the show. Taking away the angst of waiting for the next episode on tenterhooks means I always have an episode waiting at the end of a long working day in the library, or a few episodes waiting on Sunday afternoons when Fab has taken its toll.
"It may bring back memories that aren't quite as glamourous as Newport Beach"
"All I have to do is click next on the box set"
I’d highly recommend getting into The O.C. if you haven’t already, and if not maybe to revisit an old classic. It may bring back memories of school days that aren’t quite as glamorous as life in Newport Beach, but it is certainly a good way to take your mind of the impending deadlines and dissertation word limits. Without the ads it only takes up 40 minutes of your time, and you’ll never get ‘California’ out of your head again. I, for one, am very much looking forward to getting through the 3 seasons I have left, and will be bitterly disappointed when it’s all over, as everyone else was seven years ago.
As a newbie to the series, the plot twists and turns that one series has given me is already enough to have me completely hooked. I reminisce back to my school days and only dream that I could have attended the Harbor School where topless surfers, pool parties and beach days are the norm for these rich kids. There is definitely a sense of
The Truth About Webcam Girls Daisy Follett
TV Editor Last year, Channel 4 screened My Phone Sex Secrets, featuring three women who make money talking dirty to strangers on premium rate sex lines. What was clear was that while the calls they received were all roughly the same, the women themselves were very different. This year, the BBC has taken it a step further with The Truth About Webcam Girls. It follows a similar format to the Channel 4 programme, giving us a little dip into the lives of three girls who make their money online, webchatting with strangers. It seems like webcamming is what the girls make of it. Sammie is only doing it to raise money to go to college, to get away from her previous career in porn. It strikes me as a pretty depressing existence; she does twelve hour online shifts alone in her flat, posing endlessly in front of the laptop to attract punters. By comparison, Olivia is determined to make a career out of glamour modelling, and seems to be doing pretty well. Her callers have often seen her in Lads Mags and form part of a growing fan base, so she can get away with charging more. She makes a habit of scheduling them in for chats, rather than accepting every Tom, Dick and Harry who sends her a message. All three girls point out the convenience of it. Olivia rolls out of bed at 12, pulls off
her onesie, and in the time it takes for her laptop to power up she starts making money. Carla seems to have taken this to a new level; she’s discovered that men will pay to watch her do the most mundane tasks, as long as she’s doing it in her knickers. We watch as she makes £50 from men paying to see her cook lunch. And Sammie fits webcam sessions in whenever she can; she strips off while waiting for a visit from an estate
"It strikes me as a pretty depressing existence" agent and takes a quick call. The estate agent turns up halfway through, but at £3 a minute, every little helps. It’s interesting to see the effect webcamming has on the girls relationships. Sammie's girlfriend Ma is completely accepting of it at first, saying she likes that people are paying so much just to look at her girlfriend. However, when it emerges that people at Ma’s university have found out about Sammys porno past, she feels humiliated and it kicks off a huge argument. Carla and Olivia are both single. One evening, Olivia logs on to 'chat' late at night, making the point, 'it’s not like I have any housemates or a boyfriend to entertain me'. Similarly Carla
hasn’t had a boyfriend since she started webcamming, although we do see her go on a date to Mcdonald's. No seriously. Two of the girls have their mum as their manager. Olivia's mum 'forced' her into her first modelling competition as a little girl, but seems to be regretting it now it’s taken this new direction. What’s cute is that the main thing she objects to is Olivia smoking on camera for guys. She says that she wants her daughter to pack it in and model for magazines or fashion campaigns but, in the nicest possible way, it’s not going to happen. Olivia has had her fair share of plastic sur-
gery, and although she doesn’t look bad, shes given herself that big pout and tiny nose that scream GLAMOUR MODEL, and makes anyone in fashion run a mile. This is worth a watch, but it doesn’t challenge stereotypes about female sex workers in the way that Channel 4's programme managed to. We aren’t really encouraged to warm to any of the girls, and maybe that’s the problem. Mostly though, it just looks boring; they sit around telling endless guys that it’s the biggest they’ve ever seen, blah blah blah. Pull the other one out of the Jungle unscathed. Place your bets, people.
22
redbrick.me/food
7th - 13th March 2014
Food
Droughts in Brazil: How will they affect you? Rosie Twells
clear to see for those who are directly involved in this sector. The beans are commonly grown in developing countries where many farming families rely heavily upon the trading of these as their main source of income. Droughts like the one in Brazil means that the standard of living is affected for the worse and in serious instances, families may have to move to find cooler land. There are examples where organisations are working with groups of farmers under Fairtrade rules in attempts to resolve some of the problems facing them. Approximately 26 million people are employed globally in the coffee industry and therefore it is essential that communities work with implement-
Food Writer
Droughts in Brazil could be the latest catastrophe to have damaging impacts on the coffee industry. Whilst January was the wettest winter month for England and Wales since records began in 1910, things were very different in South America. Instead, Brazil experienced the hottest and driest January, causing it to create the worst drought that the country has suffered. Many farmers were caught out by the freak weather surprise, especially as January is usually a predictably wet month. As a result, this natural hazard has already created many problems, both locally for agriculturalists in Brazil and globally for traders and consumers.
"More than 140 Brazilian cities have been rationing water"
"Coffee is the second most traded commodity on earth" It comes as no surprise that coffee is the second most traded commodity on earth and 70% of the world consumes Arabica coffee. The bitter taste, combined with the long cultivation and production history of the bean, ensures that it is widely popular. However, this plant is highly susceptible to climate change – a global phenomenon that is quickly altering the face of our planet. There is a potential risk of coffee beans of this variety running out in 20-30 years due to rising global temperatures and forest erosion. The International Coffee Organisation estimates that 1.6 billion cups of coffee are drunk worldwide every day. The variations in climate change, added to the fact that there are generally more people drinking coffee, suggests that it will not be too long before the demand is greater than the supply can cope with. All coffee in the world grows in the ‘bean belt’ – the area between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn. Brazil is known to
be one of the biggest coffee producing countries in the world and this current disaster is likely to have long-lasting effects on several scales. The two main consequences are severe: crop yields have been radically reduced and an increase in prices of approximately 50% means that customers will be feeling the squeeze on their wallets and purses over the coming months. However, it isn’t all doom and gloom. At the moment, the price of coffee beans appears to be stable and there are enough supplies to last for the near future. With the threat of a price hike looming though, there is no denying that the cost of an eleven o'clock latte is set to be higher than usual. Dealing with this extreme hot weather following on from the mild winter months is not something that farmers in Brazil are
used to. Irrigation lines have been implemented in the worst-affected areas to help reduce the problem. Although, this too has had adverse impacts on Brazil’s population. According to one newspaper report, more than 140 cities in Brazil are rationing water, whilst some districts are only receiving water once every three days. This is not the first time that the world has witnessed dramatic changes to the price and production of coffee beans. Only last year did scientists warn that supplies were at an all time low and a drought was predicted. So, despite the fact that this recent catastrophe may have come as a shock to many agriculturalists and farmers in Brazil, there have been statements of warning distributed before. The negative fluctuations that the coffee industry is experiencing at the moment are
Cinema Food: Is it worth the money? Gemma Bridge Food Editor
@glbridge1
Some people argue that no cinema experience is complete without gorging on snacks such as popcorn, chocolates, or nachos. As a result of this, most cinemas offer a wide selection of snacks from their in-house retail counters and there are often combo deals available that come in all sorts of sizes, from the kids-sized snacks to the extra large meal combos that seem to be great value for money and entice customers in. However cinema food is very expensive, with nine out of ten cinema-goers considering food and drink at the venues to be overpriced, snacks can add up to more than the price of the ticket! In addition, the cinema food is also lacking in nutritional content, and high in calories. For example a large sweet popcorn- a favourite of many cinema goers - contains at least 1000 calories, 43g of fat and over 21g of sodium, equivalent to 0.06g salt.
As a result of the cost and lack of nutrition, over 29% of cinema goers now take their own snacks. For example, I recently went to the cinema and managed to buy 2
"Cinema food is overpriced- even exceeding the cost of the ticket." packets of chocolate snacks and 3 drinks for less than the cost of one snack pack from the cinema. This probably explains why only 23% of cinema goers still buy food from cinema retail stalls. However as going to the cinema isn’t a daily trip, but rather a treat every once in a while, surely, therefore, it doesn’t matter that the food isn’t the healthiest or the cheapest and so splashing out is ok? But if you’re a little strapped for cash then buying your snacks pre-cinema is probably the best option.
ed schemes to ensure they are receiving fair prices for their products, especially when external conditions create difficulties. It’s not just coffee supplies that have been affected either. The drought in Brazil has also sent shockwaves through the production of another globally traded commodity – sugar. The country is facing further problems as the dry weather has lead to a poor harvest of the canes. It has also been suggested that the price could be at its highest level in two months. There is growing evidence to suggest that this extremely hot and dry weather is becoming normal. This is extremely worrying, given the seriousness of some of the consequences from the drought in Brazil. Whether it’s the shot of espresso that wakes you up for your nine o'clock lecture, the frothy cappuccino you may have over a catch-up with some friends, or the warming mocha to enjoy in an evening, it is important to savour the taste of your coffee. If trends continue, forecasts are correct and natural disasters repeat themselves, the coffee industry may find itself running dry.
redbrick.me/food
7th - 13th March 2014
Food Fight: Window Displays Millie Walker argues that butchers should be proud to display their wares Should we be hidden from the source of our meat? No. Of course not. I for one am the last person who can stand to watch any animal suffer injury or worse. Maybe this makes me a hypocrite, but I’ve always known I’d never have a career as a medic, I’m simply too squeamish. When it comes to carcasses in the window of my local butcher’s shop however, I have no problem. There aren’t actually that many shops in urban environments whose displays feature carcasses prominently, but in rural locations there are many retailers who take pride in showing off their produce. Not only is it a sign of a prosperous business, to be able to show game and wildfowl in your shop, it’s also a sign of fresh produce and a keen interest.
The tradition of showing off meat produce should not be lost simply because supermarkets are brainwashing a serious
"Children ought to learn where our meat comes from and if it puts them of reconstituted chicken nuggets then so be it." percentage of the population into believing that ham grows in plastic packets and chicken arrives bone and feather free naturally.
Children ought to learn where their meat comes from and if it puts them off their reconstituted chicken nuggets then parents should breathe a sigh of relief. The butcher’s shop in Suffolk where this controversy began has been in business for over a hundred years and received commendation for the best Christmas display last year. Thankfully, the outrage of local people, as well as phone calls from as far abroad as Germany and even America, have resulted in the display being reinstated. How satisfying, to see individuals standing up against the sheep of the nanny state. I love walking through a rural market town and seeing local businesses thriving. If f that means seeing the odd hare, goose, pheasant or pig hanging from a butchers, then so be it.
23
Ingredient Ideas Sarah Dickinson suggests ways to use up the last of your....
Cereal
1. Museli Crumble topping Crumble is the ultimate classic English pudding, what’s not to love about layers of sweet, sugary fruit covered with a buttery crumble topping smothered in custard? This pudding is so versatile you can choose any combination of fruits available to you. Why not also add a little crunch to your next crumble? Mix in the last remnants of your muesli to the bread crumbed topping before sprinkling over the fruit and baking. Simplicity at it’s best.
2. Crispy Cornflake Chicken If you want to try your hand at making your own version of chicken Katsu, simply grab your cornflakes, crumble into smaller pieces and use to coat your chicken strips. You may find the effect is not quite as impressive as Wagamama’s own but this is still a satisfying alternative without the hassle of a trek into town!
3. Marshmallow Crisp Cakes You can’t go through childhood and not have made a batch of your own rice crispy cakes. This recipe calls for 150g of mini marshmallows that when melted in 20g of butter, turns into a sweet gooey mixture that combined with 90g of rice crispies and creates a chewy, sticky cereal treat that takes you right back to your childhood.
Lynette Dakin argues that butchers need to clean up their displays to suit the market The debate over carcasses in shop windows is not probably one you’ve heard of. Last weekend, however, it was brought to the foreground when a Suffolk petition won its case to have the bodies hanging in a local butcher’s window display removed. The locals were tired of the carcasses needlessly hanging outside the shop and having to shield their children’s eyes from the terror of pig’s heads and whole pheasants. The sight may not be pretty; but it is the
"Tradition falls short of trends in our current market" reality. This is where we get our wafer-thing cuts of ham or perfectly cut steak, which the
British population are only too happy to gorge on. Many may view this petition as contradictory; if you eat meat, you should be prepared to face the realities of where it comes from. It is an argument that could spiral in today’s society, where we are more comfortable living in ignorance. We could equally argue that when buying a cardigan in Primark, we should be prepared to see the under-paid workers who made it. We probably ought. The butchers, however, are not hanging the carcasses in their windows to invoke a moral debate; they remain because it is a traditional form of advertisement for their products. The problem today is that this tradition falls short of the trends in our current food industry; it’s a clean, exact and packaged processing environment. The public are used to buying their products on shelves and in freezers in Sainsbury’s, far from the harsh realities of the butcher houses.
Yes, this is hypocritical. Yes, perhaps you should be prepared to face what you are eating. But I’m not arguing against window displays on moral grounds. I’m arguing for the survival of our local butchers keeping
"I want independant butchers to stay in business but to do so, they need to clean up their act." their independent shops in business. The harsh irony is that, to do so, they have to become more like the chain supermarkets. That means, cleaning up window displays to fit in with the clean, friendly and all together ignorant, food culture that we have created.
4. Banana Oat Cookies Compared to your regular cornflakes or Weetabix, porridge oats aren’t quite in the same category but are a very popular choice for breakfast and many snack ideas. I was first introduced to this unusual recipe last year from the popular blogilates.com. I myself have never tried the actual blogilates but these treats are scrumptious despite the lack of ingredients. All you need is 1 banana mashed and mixed with 1 cup of dry oats and that’s it! Simply roll into small shapes and bake for 15-20 minutes at 170C and voila! If you find they are a tad plain for your liking then feel free to coat in nutella for a more indulgent snack.
24
redbrick.me/travel
7th - 13th March 2014
Travel
Public Transport vs. Road Trip Wondering the best way to travel? We've reviewed two of the most popular options so you don't have to... Jessica Flanagan
Travel Writer No matter how remote and unpopulated the location, it is very hard, in today’s day and age, to travel somewhere that cannot boast an attempt at a decent public transport system. Choosing to travel or backpack largely through public transport can make one’s adventure considerably cheaper, more flex-
"Rest in the knowledge that someone else will get you there. " ible and more convenient. Whether buses, trains, boats or coaches, the inexpensive prices to share the vehicle with many other passengers, surely cannot even be rivalled by the cost of hiring your own. The worry of not having to find somewhere to park, or the fear of sleeping in your car, is not an issue when you opt for using the public or local services. Forget about the fuss regarding licenses, insurance, motorway tolls, and foreign road laws, and rest in the knowledge that someone else will get you to your destination. The most ideal and convenient means seems to be either night buses or night trains; this not only prevents wasting a whole day spent travelling when you could be sat on a beach, but also, that's one night of hostel prices that you don't have to budget for. It is true that opting for public transport means you can miss out on the beauty that could come with travelling through a country at your own leisure and at your own speed. For example, it seems undebatable
that hiring a car and seeing everything you may wish to on the East Coast of Australia, does seem slightly more appealing than, say, simply booking a flight and cutting out the beautiful landscape in between. As sad as it is to say, the horror stories that we hear (too regularly) about buses falling off the sides of cliffs in underdeveloped countries, are not myths. All too often we see headlines in one of our papers about a gap year student being one of the devastating fatalities. But this is not to say such freak accidents would be prevented simply by hiring and driving your own vehicle. On the line of unpleasant rumours, we've all heard the stories where someone wakes up while on a night bus, to the driver's friend rummaging through your bag while you sleep. Perhaps safety and security trumps convenience and the lack of expense. Being an avid traveller, I would never contemplate any mode other than public transport. The ease of deciding that day where you want to go next, and simply sitting and relaxing in the knowledge that, for a small price, someone else will deliver you to the next town or border. Be smart; tie your bag around your ankles, keep your valuables close to your person, and your journey should be problem free . For final reassurance, no matter where you are in the world, no public transport is going to be anymore unreliable than the Selly Oak to New Street train!
"Be smart; tie you bag around your ankles, keep your valuables close. "
Sara Tryon
Travel Writer There’s certainly a romantic notion shared by many of us which simply involves packing everything into a car and going on a road-trip. With just a bag in the boot and a tank full of petrol, all that’s left to do is explore the open road at your will. But is it really as good as it sounds? Travelling by car or campervan certainly has some benefits over other modes of transport. It gives you the flexibility to get off the beaten-track, away from busy train
"There are great savings to be made through an increased level of selfsufficiency. " stations and airports so you can access lesser-travelled locations more easily. In addition to this, you aren’t confined by timetables and therefore don’t need to worry about forking out for another ticket if you miss your train. There are also great savings to be made through an increased level of self-sufficiency; without the need for hotels or restaurants you can relax and dine for a much more affordable price. Many people who take the road-trip approach to travel choose to rent a campervan which can be far more cost-effective than buying one outright. In a campervan you also have the choice as to whether to sleep in the car or camp under the night sky depending on the weather. However, although private transport
might initially seem the care-free way to get around, forward planning is ultimately essential. Most countries have regulations and requirements that need to be met before you can hire a car, such as a minimum age or driving experience. Many people choose to drive by day and sleep in campsites by night. These can get particularly busy over school holidays so try to plan your trip at a quieter time if possible. Moreover, it’s vital that you look into camping laws in the countries you visit. Some will allow you to park and camp wherever you like, which can bring its own safety issues, but others will legally require you to stay in a campsite. From a social perspective, driving means one person will always have to be awake and sober if you need to get from A to B, whereas on a train you can all stumble on and pass out if the mood takes you. However, the biggest issue that is likely to arise is cost. Whilst you save on flights and trains, you have to pay for every drop of petrol, not to mention insurance, ferries and tolls. Try to at least have a rough awareness of your route so you’re not caught out by unexpected costs. Travelling without public transport is an incredible way to have a flexible trip and find yourself amongst the less-touristy hideouts. Renting cars and campervans, even in Europe, can be a good option to avoid paying high prices to get a heavy vehicle on the ferry. Make sure you read the small print though, as some renting agreements will have mileage restrictions. As long as you’re aware that costs might come up, road-trips offer a fun and flexible alternative to conventional travel.
Brum students abroad This week we hear from Grace Burges in the undervisited and unfamiliar Russian city of Moscow... In the last five months, Moscow has gone from being an unwelcoming, alien city to our eccentric, bustling home. When people ask me what Moscow is like, the best answer I can give them is that it’s just different. There are funny little quirks to it, like the rows of shops selling everything from wedding dresses to pastries to lingerie which line the underpasses. You can buy sushi in practically every restaurant; Italian, Russian, you name it, raw fish will be on the menu. There’s a Metro station which accepts payment in squats, and every café will have approximately one waiter to every customer, and 24 hour restaurants or shops never actually mean they’re open for 24 hours a day. That’s something we learnt
staring forlornly at a closed ‘24hr’ McDonalds at 4am, hoping in vain it would somehow open. There are a lot of stereotypes surrounding Russia: that it’s always freezing (wrong), in fact it was still a toasty 1° when I left in December; that everyone always drinks vodka (don’t forget to chase it with a gherkin); and that the people are all cold and suppressed. The last stereotype was one we were quickly able to prove wrong. Don’t be put off by stony faces; start talking to almost anyone in Moscow and soon you will see that same face crack into a warm smile. Our first three weeks of living in hotels, navigating estate agencies and dodgy landlords taught us that Russian people will go above and beyond to help you.
It’s an overwhelming city, with a melting pot of cultures, and a complicated mix of concrete Soviet high rises and elegant pre-Soviet buildings, from great wealth and unimaginable luxury to total destitution. You can be trapped in the sweaty, crowded but crazily efficient metro one minute, then find yourself in Park Tsaritsyno, bathed in a golden light from the autumnal trees in the next. Or perhaps, to truly feel Russian, you can don your ice skates and glide effortlessly (or in my case, like a two-year-old learning to walk) around the rink at Gorky park, which is more like a small village lit up with fairy lights, with the smell of log fires and mulled wine in the air. Or you can wander around Moscow Red Square and
witness the Russian tradition of brides in long white dresses being photographed in front of the illustrious deep red buildings on their wedding day. And when inevitably the money runs out and you find you can no longer afford the life of the nouveau riche, you can take shelter in the dark, smoky beer halls, where young Russians will take turns to sit with you and talk, eating grenki and sipping on cheap vodka. The vastness of the city might seem to some intimidating. For me, it’s an open door to a world of weird and wonderful experience- just avoid the babushkas, they may be small in height but they are fierce in character and come armed with walking sticks and handbags, and they're not afraid to use them.
redbrick.me/travel
7th - 13th March 2014
25
Taiji's Brutal Dolphin Drives Passionate activist Anna Hughes discusses why an end must be put to the cruel dolphin and whale hunts happening in Japan... The small Japanese town of Taiji has recently become a focus of world news due to the controversial dolphin drives and massacres taking place there. The drives occur annually from September-March and have been the cause of the capturing and killing of more than 18,000 dolphins and small whales since 2000. Just this year alone has seen reports of the slaughter of Bottlenose dolphins, Risso dolphins, White Striped dolphins, Pantropical Spotted dolphins and Pilot whales. The slaughters were first broadcast to many by former dolphin trainer and capturer by Ric O'Barry who was thrust into the limelight, uncovering the dark secrets of the Taiji cove. This revelation resulted in the creation of the film ‘The Cove’, which was an Academy Award Nominee for Best
"Animal activists report sometimes being able to see the dolphins throwing themselves into the rocks in sheer fear and panic." Documentary in 2009. 'The Cove' documents the inhumane and bloody massacre of dolphins and whales, revealing to the world graphic scenes of dolphins thrashing against the nets in attempts of escape and the blue sea water staining red with blood when they inevitably failed to do so. The outrage among the Japanese public, who were previously unaware of the brutality of the slaughters, was immense and Taiji faced mass scrutiny from activists around the world. This year alone brought criticism to Japan from the US ambassador, Caroline Kennedy, who tweeted that she was 'deeply concerned by inhumanity of drive hunt dolphin killing.' A breakthrough occurred in February, when ‘The Japan Times’ published a piece condemning the drive fisheries, requesting that the Government “defend dolphins, not ‘tradition'. Whilst the dolphin drives are argued to be part of the tradition and culture of Taiji, these drives only began in 1969. They are said to be reinforced by the captive industry of marine mammals, which is driven by the money earned by such drives. While many of the animals are ruthlessly butchered for their meat (including those that are pregnant), the “prettier” and more “perfect” dolphins and whales are selected for captivity by trainers from marine parks. These dolphins then face a lifetime separated from their families; forced to perform in shows and “swim with dolphin programmes” for the needs of human entertainment. It is for this reason that captive trade and marine parks help fund the dolphin drive and give them incentive to continue on such a large scale. A live dolphin for a marine is of more economic value than the meat of a dolphin. For every one dolphin captured to live in captivity, around 17 are brutally slaughtered. Statistics have risen at dangerous rates, from 56 dolphins sold for captive display in 2005, to 247 in 2013. This highlights the sheer demand which in turn, funds and incentiv-
ises the drives. This means by supporting or visiting marine parks, one is helping enforce the need for such drives across the world. Often a lack of size or aesthetic value will condemn a dolphin to their fate of being maliciously thrown back out to sea, defenceless and alone. Known for their high social activity, it is highly unlikely that any of the whales and dolphins thrown back would survive after the intense trauma endured during the drive. It is the methods used by the fishermen which evoke much of the criticism. Protestors and animal activists report sometimes being able to see the dolphins throwing themselves into the rocks in sheer fear and panic. After succumbing to their oppression, the pods remain extremely close together until the very end. Sometimes the dolphins and whales are even left overnight without food to endure a night trapped in the cove before they are slaughtered in the morning. The previously applied method of killing was to cut the throat of the animal, but since being banned, new methods have been instigated that are no less brutal. Footage from slaughters show the dolphins and whales being run over by their boat’s engines, manhandled and wrestled by the fishermen, all before the actual slaughter process begins. When ‘The Cove’ was filmed, fishermen used spear thrusts to kill the dolphins, causing a lot of blood to flow into the water, and bringing unwanted attention to the mass slaughters. As a result, they found a method that produced much less visual signs of slaughter to the immediate eye. The fishermen now shove metal rods in to the spinal cord, and once removed, hammer a wooden plug into the hole. Those not being attacked at this point continuously spy hop around and attempt to stay close to their families while they are murdered. The animals thrash and struggle, while cries
"The outrage among the Japanese public, who were previously unaware of the brutality of the slaughters, was immense." of panic can be heard. Paralysis is often a result instead of instant death, meaning the dolphins and whales are extremely aware of the pain. Whilst this kind of slaughter is not unique to only Japan (instances arisen from Peru and Faroe Islands), the inhumanity and brutality of the killings in Taiji are exceptional. These intelligent, beautiful mammals should not be captured from their natural habitat, and placed into unfairly small enclosures, forced into a life of entertainment slavery. They are not Taiji’s dolphins and whales to take, and there are many organisations who continue to protest against such slaughters. For more information on the drive fisheries and the captive trade, visit The Sea Shepherd Conservation Society online and watch ‘The Cove’ documentary.
The 5...
Best hostel chains in Europe Hope Brotheron Travel Writer
1
2
3
4
5
Generator
Oasis
Wombats
Palmers Lodge
Nest
These 'uber hostels for those who want to hit the city but not be hit in the pocket,' With 7 hostels in 6 must-see locations; Venice, London, Hamburg, Berlin, Copenhagen, Dublin and Barcelona.
Oasis offers cheap and comfortable hostels in the middle of city. The hostels are located in travel hotspots such as Lisbon, Seville, Malaga and Granada. Check out their website for some great offers when you book two or more nights.
A chain based in Eastern Europe which offers a homely feel whilst also not neglecting the all important nightlife side of travelling. Branches are located in Budapest, Munich, Vienna and Berlin.
'Voted by you as one of London’s best youth hostels,' Palmers Lodge, originally started life as a hostel in England's capital. They have just opened brand new accommodation in Zagreb, Croatia.
Clean and comfortable, this chain will offer you a home away from home in either Valencia, Granada, San Sebastian or Barcelona. With staff happy to assist with your adventure.
26
redbrick.me/lifestyle
7th - 13th March 2014
Life & Style
Birmingham International Fashion Week AW14
Forget New York, London, Milan, Paris... our very own Birmingham has become the latest city to host its personal runway fashion event. Life&Style writer Katarina Bickley was there to catch all the on-trend action. Last night I was lucky enough to attend the second annual Birmingham International Fashion Week at the stunning banqueting suite and with my very own press pass, cheeky. As I arrived I was greeted with a glass of champagne and whisked into the press lounge, surrounded by designers, bloggers, journalists, cameras and iPads. I was lucky enough to be approached by Lauren, a lovely woman from the Francesco group, the official hairdressers for the event. We chatted away in our matching candy pink blazers as she told me about the family-run business and their very exciting new ‘Embrace’ collection, which uses a unique skin tone chart to help you find the perfect hair colour to match your skin tone. The results won’t be what you thought! After hovering around for a bit I managed to speak to an equally lovely make-up artist from Make-up London Academy to try and gain a few tips and trends for the upcoming season. She emphasised the importance of primer, which they described later on in their show presentation as their ‘secret weapon.’ It ensures that your make-up lasts for much longer, so perfect for us students who don’t want to be having to pop to Boots every other week to replace the contents
"Primer: the secret weapon. Perfect for us students who don't want to be having to pop to Boots every other week to replace the contents of our make-up bag." of our make-up bag. Having worked at London Fashion Week, she said the biggest new make-up trend for the spring is peachy colours. The audience were also lucky enough to view a live smoky eyes makeover, and the company offers master classes in Birmingham if you want to perfect this timeless look. There were various other fashion collection stalls around,
but the one that particular caught my eye was What Alice Found, a vintage designer which draws upon the second Alice in Wonderland book for its designs. Candy, ice pinks and ice-cream colours in general were one of the designer’s favourite spring trends, so keep an eye out. Next, the catwalk!
"Let's be honest, the average person, never mind student, can't afford a £150,000 designer shoe." As I took my seat, I had my iPhone and notepad at the ready; anything to make me feel like a real journalist. The designers featured varied from local to national and there was certainly a variety in the collections which made it all the more exciting. Koyawo showcased oriental designs, whilst Khloé Nava featured a gothic trend, moreover Textiles Fashion featured every fabric imaginable and there was a fabulous selection of stand-out accessories from The House of Borgezie. But my favourite collection was by Nina Naustdal, a Norwegian designer who had flown over especially. Her collection ‘Timeless Elegance’ is based on her travels and the people she meets. Whilst some of her designs were more ‘out-there,’ note the snakeskin blouses and fur sleeves, it certainly lived up to its name, featuring long coats and simple floor length dresses and lots and lots of embellishment. I think what I liked most was that particularly the latter I could see being adapted for the high street, because let’s be honest the average person, let alone student, can’t afford a £150,000 designer shoe. They definitely saved the best until last. I thoroughly enjoyed the event and would certainly recommend it to anyone wanting a taste of what a real fashion show is like (the models walk a lot slower than you would think, by the way). Chatting away to the people of the media, champagne, notepad and press pass in hand and a seat at a real runway show, I felt like a proper little journalist. And it was brill.
Training for a Half Marathon Life&Style writer Hebe Hatton is training for the half marathon! Here's her top three tips for a healthy training regime. So you’ve got a few 5ks under your belt and tackled a 10k or two but where should you look next for your fitness goal? Half marathons take place all over the country and are pretty regular, it’s also a great distance as, yes okay, it will take some training but it doesn’t need to take over your whole life and just because it’s a half marathon doesn’t mean its half the achievement. Due to a recent lull in my fitness regime, I made the rather rash decision to enter a half marathon in the hope it would motivate me to keep up regular exercise. I am sure the majority of people’s ‘get fit’ new years resolutions are long out of the window and the idea of wearing a bikini is way too far off to be any kind of motivation so it’s time to give yourself new goals and perhaps some of these tips will inspire you to at least get out the trainers again.
Make your goals realistic Whether you are training for a race or just looking at getting back into running its important never to plan to do more than you are capable of. Start off small, what I have found a good way of doing it is build up each week, so I started with 7k run (which admittedly killed me) and then will build up from there, adding a few more kilometres every time you run. Get the gadgets There are so many phone apps available now to help you stay motivated when you exercise. I am using map my run at the moment, it can tell me, how far I ran, how long it took me and how quick my pace was. Your work outs are always recorded so it’s really inspiring to look back at your previous times and see yourself improving.
Eat at the right times Healthy eating goes hand in hand with keeping up and strict exercise schedule. What’s the point in frequently exercising and eating unhealthily? What I have found has really affected me and improved my times, has been choosing the right things to eat and the right time. As students we all have busy days, so early morning and evening runs are prefect. However, no matter how early make sure not to skip breakfast, have something the carb heavy but relatively low in fat such as brown bread toast and fruit. The same goes for those evening runs, rather than a big meal before you exercise, eat regular throughout the day and then something light when you come back.
7th - 13th March 2014
redbrick.me/lifestyle
My Sober Week
Life&Style writer Bethany Barley does the unthinkable, and gives up alcohol for a week, to see life through the very clear eyes of sobriety. Day One
“I’m not drinking for a week,” I announced to my flatmates last night. They took one look at me and burst out laughing. Admittedly, I was holding a glass of wine in my hand at the time, and so the idea probably seemed a little ridiculous, but I was deadly serious. “It’s for a Redbrick article,” I explained, “And seriously, how hard can it be?” All four of them then proceeded to remind me of how many nights I go out per week (two or three), and how many sober nights I’d managed since the start of term (er, none). “Not to mention Fab on Saturday!” my flatmate Anna added. I wavered at that one. Being sober at Fab sounded about as much fun as being a vegetarian at a meat factory. But I was determined. I finished my last sips of wine and made a vow not to let one drop of alcohol pass my lips until the following week. Now I’m currently sitting at my laptop 24 hours in, and I’m starting to think this was much easier than I’d expected. Who needs alcohol when you’ve got a mug of hot chocolate and a biscuit by your side?
Day Three
It seems that hot chocolate and biscuits aren’t the cure to everything. All had been going brilliantly in my efforts at being teetotal – I had stayed in for a couple of nights and had had no problems demurely sipping water whilst some of my friends had a beer. But last night was Saturday and time for Fab. One shout of “Let’s pre!” from my flatmate and I felt my willpower shrink. It shocked me just how much we associate clubbing with drinking, as when I explained my experiment to everyone, a few of them were impressed that I was even bothering to go out at all! Whilst they beer-bonged every alcoholic drink within a ten metre radius, I put the kettle on and had shots of sugary coffee to keep my energy levels up. To my surprise, the coffee seemed to work and I found the whole evening much more fun than I had expected. I spent my time dancing, drinking energy drinks and trying not to laugh at the confusion on the barmaid’s face when I asked for a Jägerbomb without the Jäger - “What? No alcohol? You sure?” Anna and I stayed until the warbling final bars of Wonderwall, and despite her having hurt her foot and my soberness, we headed home giggling at what a good night we’d had. What’s more, I went to bed with the blissful knowledge that I wouldn’t wake up with a monstrous hangover in the form of a pounding head or a delicate stomach. I couldn’t help feeling rather smug this morning as I bounced out of bed at the crack of dawn (well, eleven o’clock – I’m still human), and got on with some work while my flatmates shuffled around all day feeling slightly queasy at the sight of the vodka bottle they’d left out the night before. I’m starting to think that having the occasional sober night isn’t necessarily a bad thing!
Day Six
After my experimental night out, I went to stay at my uncle’s for two nights as a bit of a break during Reading Week. Whilst on the train I received a text from a friend who’d almost knocked me down in an attempt to say hi on the dance floor at Fab. She couldn’t believe that I’d been sober, and I wasn’t sure whether to be concerned that she couldn’t tell the difference between my drunk and sober dancing! When I arrived at my uncle’s, what I thought would be the easiest part of the week proved to be harder than I’d expected. Even when out for a meal at the pub, cries of “Go on Bethany, one glass of wine won’t hurt!” were pretty tough to resist. “You’re almost there, you’re almost there,” I found myself muttering, as though I were running a marathon instead of simply avoiding the siren calls of the bottles that seemed to leer at me from every off license that we passed. I got back to uni this afternoon, and now I feel that the end is in sight. I’m by no means an alcoholic, but I’m certainly looking forward to my next proper night out this weekend!
Snap Fashion
Hannah Mason explores the new and exciting technological world of shopping, through the innovative fashion app, Snap Fashion.
27
Fierce Floral Explosion Our campus has put on its spring dress! There are beautiful blooming flowers everywhere. Pimp your room with some fresh Spring buds too.
And the Oscar goes to... Snap Fashion and Snap ColourPop are two new fantastic apps designed by a self-confessed ‘student desperate to solve her fashion frustrations’. Snap Fashion is an innovative fashion technology that uses an advanced search engine that enables style inspiration from anywhere, to become a reality. You take a picture of an item of clothing that you like and then the app will search through thousands of items to find you similar clothes for a variety of prices, from several different shops and brands. It really is that simple. Long gone are the days of wondering where that dress was from, or where you could get some jeans just like that. To put the app to the ultimate test I ‘snapped’ a shameless selfie in a Topshop playsuit that I in no way, shape, or form, could afford. The search proved difficult as there was no set category for playsuits, so I received dresses as results. However, after a few different searches I got used to the app and found the
"Snap Fashion is an innovative fashion technology that uses an advanced search engine which enbables style inspirations from anywhere." results really helpful, coming in the form of ‘pattern’, ‘shape’ or ‘top pick’. The app features exciting extras such as a fashion blog, a trending section and a wish list where you can save your favourite finds. There is also a handy filter section where you can input your price range and share your favourite picks. You can even buy the items with a simple tap which makes it extremely dangerous for your bank account and student loan. It is also linked to a fully functioning website so you can enjoy the app on the go or at home. Snap ColourPop is the latest app out of the two, and is laid out in the same format. With this one though, you ‘snap’ a picture of a colour from any object or surface you like and the app will find you clothes of the nearest colour match. I tried it out and it worked perfectly. It would be ideal for events such as weddings and proms when you usually have to rummage around the Bull Ring for hours trying to find a pair of shoes that match your outfit. Overall I think it is a very cool app that we’ll be seeing much more of, and it’s free so why not?! But please, just be warned that it can cause extreme levels of procrastination and a serious plummet in your savings...
It is the most important red carpet event of the year, and my goodness it did not disappoint, with Lupita Nyong'o looking nothing short of a disney princess in her Prada dress.
Getting in Shape The higher those degrees climb the less clothes we are all wearing! So now's the time to get off your bum and burn those winter calories.
Cara for Mulberry We still can't get over her collection for Mulberry. Those cool, edgy “BAGpacks” are TDF! Start saving up yours funds, as the range hits stores this August.
Time We are already half way through term... how has this happened?! Time is running way too fast for our liking.
Spring Cleaning We all hate it, but it has to be done! And your housemates and poor bathrooms will be so happy afterwoods.
End of FW's It’s always an incredibly fabulous time of the year and unfortunately all the glamour is over now. But, what we learned: baby blue and Barbie pink are most definitely the hottest colours for SS14.
Spring/Summer Collections It’s not that we don’t like the new collections; they are just way too pretty. Dear all the brands: Stop being so gorgeous, it really is not good for our student loans!
Day Seven
Mission complete! My week of being sober made me realise just how much we think we need alcohol to have a good night out. Is it always necessary? Sometimes, yes. A lot of student nights wouldn’t be the same without the uncontrollable giggling, the stupid dancing and the ability to overlook absolutely disgusting toilets! But being sober turned out to not be such a big deal, and I’ve found that a lot of what you get out of your night depends on what you put in. If you’re busy enjoying yourself, no one’s going to care whether you’ve had eight shots or none at all! So next time you’re out, surprise yourself and stick to the lemonade, the coke, the energy drink. You’re not going to be the one who ends up throwing up all night, and who knows? You might even enjoy it.
By Katharina Hartwich
Life&Style Writer
Finished
28
redbrick.me/sport
7th - 13th March 2014
Sport
Injury mars title decider Birmingham 1sts
1
Nottingham Trent 1sts
0
Aman Harees
Online Sports Editor
The University of Birmingham men’s football 1sts emerged as 1-0 victors in an injury marred game with table topping Nottingham Trent. “The game is about glory”, said Danny Blanchflower in 1961. “It’s about doing things in style, with a flourish, about going out and beating the other lot, not waiting for them to die of boredom." Undoubtedly, the home side aspired to those ideals as they wore their badges with pride in pursuit of a much desired title. A resilient Nottingham Trent reduced to ten men stood in their way but the home side will walk away with pride after a bruising battle in the title decider.
"A resilient Nottingham Trent reduced to ten men stood in their way but the home side will walk away with pride after a bruising battle in the title decider." Approaching the game, the home manager, Rob Williams was all too aware of the scale of the task. Despite a higher goal difference, Birmingham needed to match the 3-0 scoreline that Nottingham inflicted in the first half of the season in order to secure the Midlands 1A League. Williams was optimistic of his side’s chances, having won their last four league games with consummate ease. His counterpart credited Birmingham’s late surge but sensed that his team would welcome the pressure. At kick off, a sizeable crowd made their presence felt – their palpable excitement understandable considering the nature of the clash. Among the crowd were proud fathers, who prowled the touch line menacingly, as they chastised the referee at every opportunity. Birmingham exploded to a spectacular start, from the onset. Dan Westmoore’s long throw was flicked on by centre forward Will Richards onto the path of John Pykett, who thumped a swerving half volley against the side post. Early forays into the Birmingham box were shepherded adeptly by resolute centre half duo, Jack Hulin and Seb Gho. The physical tussle between both sides was clear evidence that there was a title on the line – neither side wanted to make a mistake.
"Despite a higher goal difference, Birmingham needed to match the 3-0 scoreline that Nottingham inflicted in the first half of the season in order to secure the Midlands 1A League." The home side attempted to spread the play by widening the pitch but their early crosses were too flat. The urgency though was clear to see with Birmingham looking to capitalise on fouls by restarting the play quickly. Birmingham however wasted a
"The lengthy pause that ensued suggested a severe ankle injury and the distraught opposition player was shown a red card by the referee." series of good free kick positions. The first twenty minutes were punctured by two clear gilt edged chances. The first by Charlie Connor was in front of goal and the second by centre back Gho, whose flick did not find the target. Nottingham began to impose their stamp on the game through midfield lynchpin, Paul Hodges. His proficiency in all aspects of midfield play allowed him to weave his way into a pocket of space and thread a pass but Piggott came to the home side’s rescue. With the sun setting over Metchley Astro Pitches, both teams were still at deadlock. Birmingham’s tactics seem to waver between lumbering the ball to right winger Pykett or centre forward Richards but lack of control let them down as the opposition ushered the ball away. The first real chance for the away side sounded the warning bells as Birmingham began to spurn good position. Following a corner, Nottingham’s Courtney Chopperfield was free in the box but he fluffed his line, much to the delight of the partisan crowd. However, an incident in the 33rd minute transformed the complexion of the game. After good interplay in midfield, and with Birmingham in the final third of the pitch, defensive midfielder Declan Kirby, prepared to release a pass. Unbeknownst to him, a Nottingham player attempted to halt the counter attack by tackling Kirby from behind, earning the ire of the Birmingham players. The lengthy pause that ensued suggested a severe ankle injury and the distraught opposition player was shown a red card by a referee. There was no malice to the tackle – it was a professional foul but the extent of the injury prompted the referee to give the player his marching orders. The 19 minute delay finally ended with spirited applause amongst the crowd as Kirby was stretchered off . When play restarted, any worries that the injury affected the home side were
"Birmingham began to produce a flurry of opportunities and the 43rd minute produced a much desired break through." quelled as Birmingham’s attacking trio set about capitalising on their one man advantage. Towards the end of the first half, Birmingham’s manager began to make tactical adjustments – wingers began to switch sides and the ball was played along the ground in their midfield triumvirate. Birmingham began to produce a flurry of opportunities and the 43rd minute produced a much desired break through. A short back pass from Nottingham’s Stainsfield sold goalkeeper Martin short and Richards latched on to the loose ball, before being mowed down by Martin. The resulting spot kick was never in doubt as John Pykett stepped up and drilled the penalty to the goalkeeper’s left. The goal fuelled the home side’s initiative but they couldn’t punish the opposition. A strong end to the first half, inspired hopes that getting the much vaunted 3-0 scoreline had an air of inevitability. Nottingham’s intensity in the second
half however made the onlooker aware that the title dream was still on a knife edge. They manned the barricades and fed the ball to their midfield maestro Hodges; his ball control ensuring that space was opened up for his team mates. Nonetheless, the home side were not short of effort. The floodlights were switched on - it’s intensifying glare bringing to focus the bright wing play on both of Birmingham’s flanks. In the 52nd minute, Dan Westmoore sprinted forward and took on an ill-advised shot but it hinted at Birmingham’s urgency. Whenever the home team interchanged passes speedily, Nottingham looked troubled.
"Nottingham's intensity in the second half however made the onlooker aware that the title dream was still on a knife edge." In the early stages of the second half, Birmingham’s slow passing was stopping them from infiltrating a dogged Nottingham defence. The lethargy in switching wings were a clear stumbling block to their promotion dreams. To Nottingham’s credit, they held firm and kept a good defensive shape as Birmingham were forced wide. They themselves were in good positions but with having lesser personnel it was understandable that they were not reckless in springing forward. With thirty minutes to play, the home side’s manager rang the changes sacrificing attacking full back Westmoore for speedy winger, Josh Quadry. Despite the substitutions, errant passing and a series of spurned free kicks cost Birmingham in putting the opposition to sword. In the last quarter of play, the beleaguered opposition were camped deep inside their own half. Birmingham, too, were exhausted but substitute, Josh Quadry hugged the right touchline as he troubled the Nottingham leftback. In the late stages of the game, Seb Gho took a swerving long range strike matched by the athletics of Martin. The big goalkeeper was a crucial part to the opposition’s tactics in the late stages. He sapped the clock out of every precious second by a delaying goal kick. Frustrations began to boil over as front man Richards earned a yellow card for a cynical foul on Nottingham’s Brandon Cullum. As the end appeared in sight, Birmingham appeared bereft of ideas but their effort cannot be questioned.
"As the end appeared in sight, Birmingham appeared bereft of ideas but their effort cannot be questioned." Following the end of a pulsating encounter, left back Dan Westmoore lamented on a missed opportunity. ‘The head to head was a problem [with Nottingham], we were ahead on goal difference so we are gutted. Close but no cigar as they say and some of us are third years so we would have loved to leave with promotion’. Jack Hulin echoed his colleague’s words. ‘We should have scored more today and being a final year, it is gutting. We should be proud though, we have a very good season.’
Alex Kronenberg Sports Editor
David Morris Sports Editor
After the game we caught up with UOB men’s first team coach Rob Williams, who offered his view on the game and the season in general. Q - Birmingham were unlucky not to score more today and clinch the league title, what were your thoughts on the game itself? RW - I think we did everything other than score the extra two goals we needed and i’m not sure the players could have done much more. I thought we played extremely well and completely dominated the game. Q - How do you feel the season has gone as a whole? RW - Overall I am very pleased with how my first season has gone. The 1sts have finished equal top (with better goal difference and goals scored than Nottingham Trent, but missed out on head to head - must be the only league in the world?), almost achieving promotion, an improvement on last season. The 2nds won their league today with a win at Loughborough, again an improvement on last season. With one game to go the 3rds could still mathematically win their league, although a second place finish would be a fantastic season for them as all other teams in their league are 1st or 2nd teams. The players should be very proud of what they have achieved! I must say massive thanks to all of the players in all squads and also to Matt Richardson and Matt Rodney for their support with the coaching for the season. Q - Who were the stand-out players over the campaign? RW - It’s difficult to pick individuals as they have all played their part, but Matt Thomas, Will Richards, Sam Graham and Seb Gho have been outstanding all year. A special mention for Dec Kirby who has been excellent all season, playing every minute of every game until he was injured tonight! Q - How do you think this season will prepare the squad for next year? RW - We lose a number of players after this season but I'm sure it will be great preparation for those that remain with us next season. I would also just like to extend a massive thanks to the players, committee, coaches, uni staff and volunteers that have all helped us to achieve what we have. There was title joy for Birmingham men’s 2nds as they secured the Midlands 2A title with a 3-0 victory away at Loughborough 3rds. Goals from Sam Crompton, Max Pashley and Joe Airey were enough to confirm the side’s top place finish. This sets up the exciting prospect of an all-Birmingham clash in the league next season, one which is sure to draw a large amount of interest from those following the university football sides. Special thanks to Charlotte Wilson. Photography Editor, who has provided us with the photo collage on the right hand page telling the story of the title decider.
redbrick.me/sport
7th - 13th March 2014
29
UoBJudo
30
redbrick.me/sport
7th - 13th March 2014
Sport
Sport View Time to take a stand? With the debate over 'safe-standing' at football grounds returning to the fore, Alex McKenna explains why allowing fans to safely stand at games is the right way forward. Alex McKenna Sports Reporter
The debate on ‘safe-standing’ is slowly coming to the fore as both clubs and fans voice their desire for its return. I say return, but the new proposal consists of ‘rail seats’a design which would see supporters standing between two barriers. Despite this modification there remains a strong body of people who question the sheer existence of the debate, based on the devastation of Hillsborough, where 96 Liverpool supporters tragically lost their lives. Standing in football is an evocative issue; for those who enjoyed the experience it conjures memories of cheaper tickets, working-class solidarity and buoyant atmosphere. Yet for others it signifies danger, disaster and many years of injustice. The contention of this issue contrasts the horrors of the past with the potential for a more vibrant, yet safer future.
"Despite this modification there remains a strong body of people who question the sheer existence of the debate, based on the devastation of Hillsborough, where 96 Liverpool supporters tragically lost their lives." Safe Standing Roadshow, a leading campaigner for the introduction of safe-standing areas suggests that football clubs – if they wish – should be permitted to create designated areas for safe standing within the stadium. The campaigner suggests an allocation of perhaps 10% standing for home fans and 5% standing for away fans, thus leaving the remaining 85% of the stadium as seated. Such a scale is intended to safeguard any problems that could arise from the development, with subsequent modifications made based on the success of the scheme. Currently, many fans stand at football matches in disregard for the seat behind them. Stewards often turn a blind-eye to such activity. These cases of standing behind a seat which merely touches your shins is not entirely safe, so perhaps introducing the proposed waist-height barriers would provide regulated safety and remove the potential for crowd surges. Whilst I have sympathy with the emotional resonance this issue still has amongst families of the Hillsborough victims, I believe it can work. Furthermore, we must remind ourselves that the critical reasons for that disaster were twofold: too many fans were allowed into the stadium and the fences which subsequently inhibited their movement. It was not simply caused by people standing up. So after many decades without standing, one might ask the question of why change now? Well recently, Aston Villa announced
"Aston Villa announced that half of the clubs in the Premier League were interested in reintroducing standing areas." that half of the clubs in the Premier League were interested in reintroducing standing areas. Their football operations manager Lee Preece told the BBC ‘We’d be interested in a trial at Villa Park if that would help’. He added: ‘We've identified areas we could use for a small-scale trial so the rest of football could see if it works within a Premier League environment.’ As early as January 2012 Aston Villa became the first Premier League club to openly express an interest in furthering the debate on safe-standing. A forum they con-
ducted received a unanimous green light to offer fans the choice of whether to sit or stand at a football match. Finally I will add that Germany's topflight, the successful and currently fashionable Bundesliga, is a glaring example of how safe-standing can produce vibrant fans who feel a natural and genuine engagement with their clubs. Further evidence shows that an estimated 1,000 Brits travel to Dortmund’s Westfalenstadion stadium every fortnight to witness the clubs now infamous ‘Yellow Wall’ – the 25,000 capacity and largest existing terrace for standing supporters in European football. If football is the people’s game then it is now time to listen to the crescendo of noise from the fans who demand a choice in the matter. Those who fear that standing will bring a return to the dark old hooligan days can be reassured by the improved crowd control and stewarding measures which we
"If football is the people's game then it is now time to listen to the crescendo of noise from the fans who demand a choice in the matter." now have. Let’s not go down the road of Phil Neville who would patronisingly like to see ‘singing sections’ in football grounds. It's time for the authorities to give the paying customer what they desire. Safe Standing Roadshow should now work with football clubs to implement a trial run in designated areas of certain grounds. If this phase passes without scrutiny then I see no reason why it shouldn’t be expanded at the discretion of each club.
redbrick.me/sport
7th - 13th March 2014
Things to look out for this weekend
Performance of the week
Tweet of the week
1. It's a big weekend of football as both Premier League games and FA Cup quarter finals take place. Chelsea v Tottenham is sure to be a close encounter in the League, while Arsenal v Everton is the pick of the FA Cup games.
31
@LukeShaw3 'Couldn't be any happier! Thank you everyone for your messages and support.'
2. The Six Nations returns this weekend, with the games certainly going some way to determine the outcome of the tournament. England v Wales at Twickenham is sure to be a cracker.
After a string of impressive performances for Southampton over the past two seasons, 18 year old left-back Luke Shaw has been named in Roy Hodgson's squad for the up-coming friendlies. With Ashley Cole not featuring regularly for Chelsea this season there is sure to be competition for a place on the plane this summer. Shaw's reaction to the call-up was a breath of fresh air in a time in which players don't seem to care about their country.
3. After a victorious ODI series, England will be looking to further their success on a tour of the West Indies with victory in their first Twenty20 game on Saturday.
The lighter side of sport
Weekend wager
1. Manuel Pellegrini was this week celebrating his first piece of silverware as Man City manager, but was left blushing after an interview slip up. Speaking of managing under pressure, the Chilean spoke of managing 'Manchester United'. Not the best way of endearing yourself to City fans!
6/1 With Six Nations action returning this weekend, back all three home sides to be victorious. Ireland should have too much for Italy and England may use home advantage to gain the edge over Wales in what will be a tight contest. If Scotland can shock an injury hit France then these odds look good.
2. Ellen DeGeneres created a new trend after taking a 'selfie' with several stars at this year's Oscars, which has since been recreated in several parodies. On the right is the version created by captains of the Australian Rules league teams.
Photo of the week
Online this week
Sport quiz 1. How many career 147s has Ronnie O'Sullivan made 2. How many hat-tricks have been scored in the Premier League this season? 3. Which England batsman made a century on his ODI debut? 4. Where will Carl Froch v George Groves Part Two take place?
Tuesday Debate: Ed Tyler and Constantinos Akrivos debate whether the FA Cup has lost its magic
England v Denmark: Ed Tyler looks back on England's friendly against Denmark and evaluates what we have learned from the game.
5. How many medals did Team GB win at the 2014 Track Cycling World Championships? 1.Twelve 2.Six 3.Michael Lumb 4.Wembley 5.Five
Top 5: After Zinedine Zidane’s son, Enzo, was called up to the France Under-21s squad, Alex Kronenberg looks at the Top 5 football father and sons.
The Redbrick Crossword
Successful completion of this week's crossword could win you free food in the form of a ÂŁ5 voucher for Go Central Crossword by Tom Hutchinson
Please complete this form before you hand in your completed crossword to the Redbrick office or send a photograph to crossword@redbrick.me Name: Email Address: Phone Number:
Across
1. Number of films Leonardo DiCaprio has recieved Oscar nominations for (4) 3. Tongue, dialect (8) 9. Oar trot (anagram) (7) 10. Prize (5) 11. Heroic, courageous (5) 12. Iced over (6) 14. Texan city (6) 16. Complied, conformed (6) 19. Number of inches in a foot (6) 21. The unit of measurement for solar orbits (5) 24. A person who is the property of another (5) 25. Long necked African mammal (7) 26. Sweet smelling organic compound, found in fragrances (8) 27. Mountain range in Southern Europe (4)
Down
1. Predict, foretell (8) 2. Extreme, before sound or violet (5) 4. Rad fit (anagram) (6) 5. Excrement from bats and sea birds (5) 6. Institute, association (7) 7. Poetic and prose Norse mythological texts (4) 8. Patron goddess of the Greek capital city (6) 13. The king of Ithaca, who took ten years to get home from Troy (8) 15. Swamp, marshland (7) 17. Purchasers (6) 18. Joined, combined (6) 20. Blood sucking worm with medicinal uses (5) 22. Terrible (5) 23. The largest continent (4)
1`2`~34`5`6`7 `~`~8~`~`~`~` 9``````~0```` `~`~`~`~`~`~` -````~=`````~ `~~~`~`~~~`~q w`e```~rt```` `~`~~~y~`~~~` ~u``i``~o`p`` [~`~`~`~`~`~` ]````~\`````` `~`~`~`~`~`~` a```````~s```
32
7th - 13th March 2014
Sport
redbrick.me/sport
P 28-29 - Aman Harees and Charlotte Wilson covered a decisive day as Birmingham football men's 1sts took on Nottingham Trent in a title decider.
Squash joy across the board Scott Young
Squash media secretary
After a brief break in the squash season during which Birmingham’s players had a large amount of individual success in BUCS tournaments, the top three men's squash teams were today back in action in the quarter final stages of their respective BUCS knockout tournaments.
"The result sees a continuation of good form from the team who have now secured themselves a place in the semi-finals of the Championship." With the women's first team and mens 4ths already through to the semi-finals, there was pressure on the remaining teams to match their success. The first team consisting of Joel Makin, Olly Mapp, Scott Young, Ash Harris and Josh Taylor was in action against Sheffield, with all players winning 3-0 in straight games. The result sees a continuation of good form from the team who have now secured themselves a place in the semi finals of the Championship, potentially against a team that could field the current men's world number 3, 25 and 66. This will give a promising team an excellent chance to test their ability against players recognised on the world stage. In the Trophy, the men’s 2nds and 3rds have set up an all Birmingham semi-final, something which guarantees a Birmingham finalist.
Jack Schofield
"In the Trophy, the men's 2nds and 3rds have set up an all Birmingham semifinal, something which guarantees a Birmingham finalist." The 2nds had to settle for a walkover having been set to play Brunel, but remain unbeaten in over two years in BUCS and will go into their semi-final as clear favourites to win the trophy for a fifth year in a row. In addition, the men’s 3rds continued to prove just how much strength and depth there is in the university’s squash programme as they overcame Exeter 2nds in what proved to be a 5-0 whitewash, despite the fact that all players had reasonably close matches. The only shame is that the 2nds and 3rds cannot meet one round later in the final. Nevertheless, the next few weeks will be the most important of the season, with all teams in contention to win their respective prizes.
Jack Schofield Jack Schofield