Gaudie - 19th September 2009 by Ross Brechin

The

University of Aberdeen

The HalfBlood Prince...

Gaudie

The latest film struggles to live up to the book. Reviewed in Arts - page 4

19th September 2009

FREE

Est. 1934

Move To Butchart Will Take Time Says President

Features An introduction to the Environment & Ethics Committee - Pages 4 & 5

Arts Coco Avant Chanel & Aberdeen’s Twin City - Pages 6 & 7

Opine Musings on the meaning of Freshers’ Week - Page 10

Sport Sporting Highlights of the summer - Page 10

Renovated: The old Butchart sports centre will be made into a multi-purpose university building Alex Lewis NEWS In a move to provide more recreational areas on campus, the Students’ Association is to transform Butchart Recreation Centre into a building for student use. Services run by the Students’ Association will be on one site with rooms for society events, sports clubs

and project work.

Parker, in an interview with Gaudie, said that at the moment “students are missing out on a place to relax, eat and socialise on campus.” He added that there is also a shortage of practise spaces for bands and drama groups.

Renovations began before the summer break and the handover is expected to take place after the January exams. The phased development of the centre means that, according to Robin Parker, the Student President, its success depends on students The Hub will continue to “taking full advantage of the house Campus Services-run building.” amenities, such as hubgrub and the Careers Service.

It is hoped that a liquor licence will be granted to allow the sale of alcohol in a café-style setting. Establishing a new unioncum-club, as previous unions have been, is not the most prudent use of student funds, says Parker. At present, too many student unions in the UK are losing money which detracts from the SA’s budget to provide other student

SPL Predictions 09/10 - Page 11

activities. He also questioned it had been losing money, whether the SA was the best to the detriment of other organisation to run a student services and societies. nightclub. As a building for students, The Union on Littlejohn there will be a competition Street, which closed in open to students to rename 2008, had been run by Butchart. Campus Services, with AUSA organising and hosting As ever, University of events. The previous union Aberdeen students are free on Gallowgate was shut to use the Robert Gordon at the instigation of the Union on Schoolhill. Students’ Association as

Gaudie 19th September 2009

News

gaudie.news@abdn.ac.uk

Aberdeen Top for Clubs Linzi Barnett The Universit y of Aberdeen came first for Clubs and Societies at the Whatuni Student Choice Awards this year. With our diverse societies and friendly volunteers it is no wonder that this outstanding achievement will be noted by the Times Higher Education. A framed certificate was sent to the Vice Chancellor of the University, and a winners’ web badge sent by Whatuni can be seen on the Societies’ website. The Aberdeen University Students’ Association [AUSA] offers a wide range of societies to join: from the Agricultural Society to the Juggling Society, and from the Harry Potter Society to the Baking Society: you’re sure to find a number of them that are right for you. Joining a society ensures a discount at events held by that particular society, travel, and new

mates. If you’re just joining us here at the University of Aberdeen, joining a society is a great way to meet new people. To make university life feel a lot less daunting each society is full of students willing to help you out in any way they can, from a friendly ear to career advice. Anyone can join one of our award winning societies and attend societal events such as the renowned ceilidhs held a few times a year by our very own Celtic Society.

into charities. During the 2007-08 academic year, the Students’ Charities Campaign raised £50,000 for various organisations across the country. Every year students are offered the chance to take part in a number of activities to help raise money: some of the favourites include the Torcher Parade (Europe’s largest student torchlight parade), the Student Show at His Majesties Theatre, Jailbreak - during which one must attempt to get as far away from Aberdeen without The University of Aberdeen spending any money - and offers the chance to do not forgetting the yearly and learn things you never Student Fashion Show. thought possible. The sports societies can teach you to The award is a huge honour fence, sail, practice judo, for the university and they can even teach you how testament to the dedication to skydive. Individual levels of the students who make of experience and fitness the University of Aberdeen mean little; whether you have friendly and exciting. With been doing it all your life or the opening of the new don’t even know what a ball Aberdeen Sports Village looks like, it doesn’t matter! things look bright for the Everyone is welcome. year ahead as well. AUSA even breathes fun

Room 103, The Hub Elphinstone Road Old Aberdeen AB24 3TU Tel: 01224 272965 Web: www.ausa.org.uk Email: gaudie.editor@abdn.ac.uk Printed by BAM Editor-in-chief: Robin Parker This edition was produced by: Editors: Alex Lewis & John Braid Features: Rupert Williams Arts: Katy Campbell, Amy Russell Music: Gordon Wallace, Chris Regan Opine: Louise Ret Advertising: Shannon Tubby, Ross Brechin We voluntarily adhere to the Press Complaints Commision Code of Conduct (http:// www.pcc.org.uk/) and aim to provide fair and balanced reporting of local, national and international affairs. We are always anxious to correct any mistakes that may occur during publication. If you find any errors, please inform the editor by e-mail or phone.

Gaudie 19th September 2009

A little look at some of what’s been going on over summer

The Best Fests Yet? Dominic Kay

Happy Campers: it’s just over halfway through but is 2009 already the best year for music festivals? Dominic Kay After a rain-free Glastonbury, the finest headliners in years and the welcome return of some of history’s true greats; this British summer could well have hosted the best music festivals ever. Despite the effects of the ever-looming economic crisis, the majority of organisers and festival-goers were still able to dig deep and pay out for a weekend or two of mad, messy, muddy camping - all in the name of music. The season began in full swing during June, with Rock Ness, the hard-rocking Download and the Isle of Wight Festival taking place over the same weekend. All three played

host to huge musical legends including The Prodigy, The Pixies, The Zombies and the epically bearded ZZ Top. Then, two weeks later, it was time for Glastonbury. After coming under much scrutiny last year due its controversial headliner Jay-Z and an apparent ‘step away from what Glastonbury stood for’, organiser Michael Eavis did everything in his power to answer his critics. And answer he did. With the power of Bruce Springsteen, Blur and Neil Young as headliners, it was already proving to be massive. But with a long list of equally brilliant artists such as Doves, Florence & The Machine, Tom Jones, Madness, Lily Allen and

Fleet Foxes performing, Glastonbury 2009 was for many the greatest of its time. Several smaller yet superb festivals kicked off July, including Blissfields, headlined by the sensational Laura Marling and Guilfest which welcomed Brian Wilson, The Happy Mondays and Tribute - the world’s first and most likely only, all-metal Bee Gees tribute band! July also saw the likes of several larger crowd crammed carnivals. For both Irish and Scottish indie-pop fanatics, T in the Park and Oxegen lived up to their usual colossal reputations and delivered a wholesome array that included The Killers, Manic Street Preachers, The Pet Shop Boys and

Kings Of Leon: quite possibly one of their best lineups to date. What’s more, for the clubbing community, July played host to both Wireless and Global Gathering. Kanye West, Pendulum, Ratatat and Orbital emphasised why these were definitely two of the finest dance events of the summer. Metallica, Linkin Park and Nine Inch Nails burst August open with an almighty blast at Sonisphere in Knebworth, whilst over in Wales, The Green Man Festival took a slightly slower, yet equally magnificent approach. This spiritual, folksy haven welcomed the wonderful Bon Iver, Noah And The

Whale, British Sea Power and Grizzly Bear to its mystical surroundings. Back in England, V Festival was about to kick off. Despite the setback of an Oasis cancellation at Hylands Park, the crowds in both Stafford and Chelmsford were still treated to the likes of Snow Patrol, Fatboy Slim and the legendary Specials, who were joined onstage by no other than Amy Winehouse. August was finally finished off in style by the mighty Reading and Leeds Festivals. Amazing sets from Bloc Party, Faith No More, Ian Brown, Arctic Monkeys and a quite sensational Radiohead certainly placed them up there with the best

Student Voice Must Be Heard Alexander J. Ryland On 19 th September students at the University of Aberdeen launched a new independent online newspaper. This publication, called Vox Pop (short for the Latin phrase vox populi, meaning “voice of the people”), claims to be a free speech publication and promotes the right of the people to a free press. The newspaper has been created as part of a campaign by students for changes to Aberdeen University Students’ Association (AUSA).

of Gaudie is the President of the Students’ Association; this is currently Robin Parker who was elected by students in March. The Vox Pop group aim to change AUSA’s position on Gaudie and call for university-wide elections for the editorial board of the newspaper, including the Editor-in-Chief. This movement is not entirely new. In May 2003 the editor of Gaudie, Mark Highfield, resigned in protest against a Students’ Association decision to halve the 4,000 copy weekly run of Gaudie and influence the choice of editor, believing there was no financial basis for this. The editorial board which Mr Highfield led went on strike to support his protest and maintain the independence and regular publication of Gaudie.

The campaign intends to lobby AUSA for a referendum on the independence of their printed student media (“The Gaudie”) from editorial control within AUSA. At present, the Editor-in-Chief Two

local

Alistair Carmichael MP (Liberal Democrat – Orkney & Shetland) and Angus Robertson MP (SNP – Moray), tabled a motion in the House of Commons shortly after Mr Highfield’s resignation supporting the independence of the newspaper and the free press. The motion expressed “concern” that AUSA was “attempting to influence the tradition of editorial independence of the Gaudie... by removing the power of appointment of the paper’s editor from the staff.” It went on to describe the move as “ill-advised” and support the freedom of the press in universities.

Halving the number of copies as was intended in 2003 would have forced the newspaper to print fortnightly. This will now be the case from September 2009, where Gaudie is printing fewer politicians, regular copies for students.

Duncan Cockburn, the former Student President, called for a Sabbatical Officer to be put in charge of Gaudie’s editorial team to prevent slipping standards. It is not clear whether that would have meant a new officer would be created to edit Gaudie, or if a sitting member of the Student Executive would have taken the position. He said that the Students’ Association wanted to have “more control and management over the newspaper”. The purpose of the Student President as Editor-in-Chief is to ensure that all printed articles are legal, checking for libel or defamation. Whilst AUSA plays this role, it maintains a level of editorial control over the newspaper. An alternative suggestion to solve this problem has been to elect a new Sabbatical Officer to edit Gaudie, but

unlike Mr Cockburn’s idea, keep this officer independent of the Students’ Association. The Vox Pop group aim to hold elections for the editorial board of Gaudie to coincide with Students’ Association elections to combat voter apathy, but maintain that these elections would be for positions which are independent of AUSA. The editorial board would then be able to choose their own Editor-in-Chief, or the position would be filled by the candidate elected the board with the most first preference votes in the first ballot of the single transferrable voting system used for all university elections.

in history. September will bring the summer to an almighty close through Bestival, which is expected to be one of the finest events of the year. With Elbow bellowing out the anthems, Massive Attack creating a euphoric sensation and Kraftwerk basically blowing everyone’s minds with their electronic madness, the festival season will be ended for another year. However, this summer will be noted as being one of the greatest of all time: a legend-crammed, mudridden, booze-fuelled, maddancing mess that was the year of, very possibly, the best fests yet.

newspaper efficiently and responsibly without the need for their interference.

The Editor-in-Chief of Vox Pop, Alexander J. Ryland, said that “Vox Pop promotes the right of students to speak out against authority and express their own opinions and beliefs freely. It intends to represent the collective voice of the student populace by allowing them to publish articles regularly and without interference from the Students’ Association.” The editorial board of the publication is currently formed by a small syndicate who launched the paper, but they intend to fill all vacancies using an online poll and hold The new publication which elections annually. has been launched does not intend to replace Gaudie, The first edition was launched but show the Students’ for Freshers’ Week 2009 and Association that students at can be found at www.voxthe university can organise pop.org.uk and maintain an independent

Features

Gaudie 19th September 2009

gaudie.features@abdn.ac.uk

A Welcome From The Environment & Ethics Committee Helena Sramkova FEATURES

• During the June mass move out from Halls we ran a joint initiative with the University through a Freecycle event. For 2 weeks we had a spot

Welcome to the University of Aberdeen.

at Hillhead Halls where students could ‘freecycle’ their unwanted goods with any items left over at the end being donated to local needy charities! Hundreds of duvets, pots and pans and crockery were passed on to So I have a favour to ask from be re-homed! you… Have a blast during your • Improvement of recycling time here at University of facilities during the Freshers’ Aberdeen, but please help us Fayre – check them out by taking a personal pledge and recycle as much as you to: can whilst enjoying the • reduce, reuse and recycle festivities! • shop ethically • find green spaces to enjoy • The Students’ Association • learn something new bought Fairtrade t-shirts for our very own Freshers’ Think, Learn, Act...help for volunteers this year! change to happen

You have probably heard of the term “sustainable development” before, but entering your university studies, I can assure you that you will hear much more of it. Just to clarify for you all: “Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”. (United Nation’s Brundtland Report (1987)) This statement marks the beginning of the sustainable development concept that is so important today. At the heart of it is the aim to achieve human well-being and maintain our quality of life.

• A success story as our Students’ Association has been selected as one of four Students’ Associations in Scotland to take part in NUS Scotland’s Student Footprints programme.

Sustainable development addresses many issues of our daily life and for this reason we are all involved in this process. The University and students in Aberdeen are concerned about their environment, so in February 2008 the students voted at their AGM for the creation of an Environmental and Ethics committee under the Student Association. The Committee aims to raise awareness of studentrelated environmental and ethical concerns, organise events and to liaise with the University and local community to represent the views of students. This year we thought that we would prepare a short reference guide to help you “do your bit” for the environment during your stay at the University of Aberdeen with some tips on how and where in a green guide to the University of Aberdeen. You can download the guide from AUSA website. The Environmental and Ethics Committee is the newbie in the Aberdeen University Students’ Association (AUSA) structures; we are going into our second year

for wildflowers, animals, birds and even students! The last project, VegBag Cooperative has been running for many years and is exactly what it says on the tin! It is a co-operative scheme that provides students with organic, local (where possible) and tasty fruit and vegetables every week. All for £5 a pop! Bargain!

As you can see, we do have a voice. And yes, students can lead the change; at least here at Aberdeen University we strongly believe so.

AUSA Wildlife Garden: For birds, flowers, even students of existence, but we haven’t been idle thanks to close cooperation with the Environment office of the University of Aberdeen that supported many of our initiatives. This is a brief recap of our last year involvement: • We have had an energy audit completed on our AUSA offices and are working on implementing all the recommendations. • All University-run food outlets and shops on campus are now plastic bag free after student pressure. • Re-usable SMUG mugs are now being sold on campus so you can re-fill as much as your heart desires without creating excess waste! You can even save cash when you

Do you want to shape the world or the direction the University heads towards its environmental and ethical goals?

held at Aberdeen University – a great time was had by There are already many • During Fairtrade Fortnight all! Look out for it again in societies involved in 2009 we were out and about March 2010. environmental or ethical promoting Fairtrade goodies. activities (visit the AUSA • We also got involved with Societies website) that you • Your very own Students’ the AUSA Societies Conflict can join. The Students’ Association now has its Fortnight, a very successful Association also supports own Environmental Policy, event organised by students three student run projects presentations and – AUSA VegGarden, AUSA Fairtrade Clothing Policy and with Green Energy Policy! This panel discussions tackling Wildlife Garden and AUSA VegBag Co-operative. The student VegGarden was “Sustainable development addresses opened in Autumn 2005 by MSP Robin Harper and many issues of our daily life and for the then AUSA President, Richard Miller. It is a this reason we are all involved in beautiful allotment on the this process” Old Aberdeen campus where students can go to grow fresh veg and learn new skills. is in addition to previous the roots of ethnic and other With the aim to promote conflicts. biodiversity and conservation Zero-Waste and Transport contemporary We even had a special visit on campus the AUSA adopted Policies. from Moazzam Begg, the ex- a small garden on the Kings • We were involved in the Guantánamo Bay prisoner. College campus where we first ever Sustainability Week have started to create a haven use your mug!

For more information on all projects and the AUSA Environment & Ethics activities join us during Freshers’ Fayre in our stunning yurt or see the AUSA website.

Tips for saving

- Be social. Get to know your flatmates with tea in the kitchen (just as long as you’ve switched off all the appliances in your room!). - If you’ve got a heater in your room, put a jumper on rather than turning it up. - If you have the choice, go for the shower not the bath. - Save water by finding someone to shower with! - Don’t leave household appliances on standby. Watch Neighbours, Hollyoaks and Skins together. Five of you watching one TV will use five times less energy than five of you watching five TVs!

Features

Gaudie 19th September 2009

gaudie.features@abdn.ac.uk

Why Sharks Are Misunderstood Alexander Dobbin FEATURES At the beginning of this month, an old woman was taken from a beach in Cape Town by a Great White Shark thus renewing the fear in the public of this powerful animal: the fear that was incited by Spielberg’s classic Jaws. On its release, many people blamed the film for the unpopularity of sharks, and it indirectly causing supporting the mass illegal fishing of these animals. That was 34 years ago, since then I would like to believe that nobody still believes sharks to be the daemons of the deep, and that those people who do are part of a dying breed. However, people are always going to be afraid of sharks. I think it is slightly ridiculous to persuade people that they are gentle creatures. They are top predators and our fear of them is rational due to the fact that we can’t control ourselves or our environment very well when we are in the water. For example, you wouldn’t go strolling next to some lions because they would kill you. It’s the same idea with

sharks: they’re just harder to see and an encounter with them is incredibly unlikelythe chances of that encounter resulting in an attack fewer still, and then the chances of that attack being fatal fewer still. However this rational fear is no excuse for what is being done to sharks on a global scale. Every year humans fish over 100 million sharks out of the water, causing most species numbers to drop by 90%. A large portion of this is illegal finning, in which the fishermen drag up a shark, cut off its dorsal, pectoral and caudal fins and dump the carcass back into the water where the shark will slowly drown. These sharks are finned for shark fin soup which is a popular dish in parts of Asia: one pound of dry shark fin can retail for $300, making the industry worth billions. An individual dorsal fin from charismatic species such as Whale Sharks, large Great White Sharks and even our native Basking Shark can fetch prices of up to $200,000 and a large set of jaws from a great white can be sold on the black market for

anywhere between $100,000 and $1,000,000. The trade is very lucrative and not nearly enough funding is put into naval police in the primary

and do not reproduce often. It is thought that a female white shark takes 10-15 years to reach maturity and with a pregnancy period of 14-16

water it is potentially going to take another 15 years to replace that female, assuming the pup makes it to maturity. Nobody has actually ever seen White Sharks mating and all this is derived from data on other sharks. But first I suppose there should be some reason as to why we should conserve the shark, some benefit to ourselves. Apart from the impact that it could have on the entire ecosystem if we just removed sharks - probably throwing everything in the oceans off balance - sharks may have some medical uses: they have an incredibly low incident rate of cancer and they also can heal wounds very quickly. A shark hit by a boat and losing a chunk of flesh about the equivalent of somebody taking a fistful of flesh straight from your torso, managed to heal in just two months. These may be useful to humans, we simply do not know as shark research is difficult and expensive.

countries where illegal fishing occurs. These effects are particularly devastating on sharks as they mature slowly

months at which point they will give birth to between 2 and 14 pups. So by fishing a mature female out of the

their finning policies at the end of this month and the Save Our Seas foundation, dedicated to the conservation of all marine life, is putting forward a petition which you can sign, and although it may not feel like you are doing much, public support is incredibly important when it comes to getting a company’s attention. Here is the web address for the petition (www.aoca.org.za), it will literally take you 2 minutes to do. And although this is a petition based at the South African fisheries, this fishing is having a direct impact on all the world’s oceans.

In truth it is not just sharks that are in trouble, there is no way that humans can sustain the level of fishing that they undertake at the moment. Due to modern fishing methods millions of fish are caught every month. We are literally raping the oceans of everything they have at the moment, and it is only a matter of time before the fine balance of all the life So, how can you help? Very in the sea shatters and when simply. The MCM (Marine that happens we’re all up the Coastal Management) in creek without a paddle. South Africa are revising

Arts

Gaudie 19th September 2009

gaudie.arts@abdn.ac.uk

The Magical World: They have creatures called “hippogriffs” and sweets called “chocolate frogs” which can run about of their own accord, yet the wizarding world are stuck eating eggs and cornflakes for their breakfasts

Harry Potter And The Half Blood Prince John Braid FILM This latest instalment of the series started off in impressive fashion. The IMAX theatre in Glasgow offered the start of the film in 3D, which added to an exciting and tense opening, with special effects in plentiful supply. However, for those who know the books, there were several deviations in the film from the plot in the novel. Some were needless, such as Harry sitting in a café awkwardly chatting to the waitress, whilst the important first chapter of the novel where the Muggle Prime Minister meets the Minister of Magic, is completely omitted. The whole plot of the film revolves around Professor Horace Slughorn, whom we meet in a scene where ridiculous special effects are added needlessly. Initially, Dumbledore tries to persuade Slughorn to return

to Hogwarts School and once this has successfully been achieved, the rest of the plot is largely based around Harry trying to manipulate the same teacher in order to obtain information about Lord Voldemort’s past. For a “children’s” film, there are some tense and scary moments. In particular, when Harry and Professor Dumbledore go into the cave to retrieve one of Lord Voldemort’s so-called “Horcruxes”, there is a tense build up to the moment when Harry is attacked from creatures which lurk inside the water in the cave. I, never mind a ten year old fan, was terrified by this moment. The deviations from the plot are not always good, but they are understandable: the task of cutting down such a long book to two hours on screen must be a formidable one. From this point of view it would perhaps be fairer to

look upon the film as an adaptation of the book, as opposed to a completely faithful representation. The effects are grand and the whole thing looks very impressive.

described as a tall and thin boy, whereas Daniel Radcliffe is shorter than just about all of his classmates. His kissing scene with Ginny Weasley, played by Bonnie Wright is totally unconvincing, and epitomises the cringe-worthy However, it is some of nature of all too much of this the “banter” between the film. young wizards which is cringe-worthy at the best The acting of some of the of times and often is just younger actors may be embarrassing to witness. The questionable, but the likes of three so-called best friends Alan Rickman as Snape and Harry, Ron and Hermione Maggie Smith as McGonagall are awkward around one help to give the film some another, whilst the large credibility. Rupert Grint as focus on the love lives of the Ron is competent but it has same people is difficult to reached the stage where his take seriously. The previous sole purpose is to add comic two films are ridiculed for relief, when, according to the the awkward scenes between books, this would only be a Harry and Cho Chang and small part of his character. this one carries on the trend. Michael Gambon gives The film should focus less on a solid performance, but the angsty teen relationships somehow it doesn’t seem and more on the important quite right having Professor plot points. Daniel Radcliffe Dumbledore as a short Irish as Harry Potter is generally wizard with an elastic band regarded as a poorly cast tied around his beard. part. In the books, Harry is The ending of the film

seemed rushed and didn’t effectively capture the despair of Hogwarts School when Professor Dumbledore is murdered at the end of the film. This is one of the key moments and should have had a bigger time slot in the on-screen version, yet time had been wasted on previous scenes which weren’t as important. This film is, all in all, an impressive spectacle, but it sadly falls short of the standard set by the book. Hopefully by splitting the seventh book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows into two parts, there will be less of a need to cram everything into just one film, which will hopefully result in a more comprehensive film adaptation of the book. For those who have just seen the film and not read the book, you do not know what you are missing.

Radcliffe: Poorly cast as Harry

Arts

Gaudie 19th September 2009

gaudie.arts@abdn.ac.uk

Aberdeen And Regensburg: The Twin Cities Coco Stefanie Eck CULTURE T wi n s look identical, they speak identically, they behave identically. Okay, this is just a stereotype many of us have in mind when coming across the term. Human twins often lack any similarities with one another. Still they can have a very close relationship. So do twin cities, for example Aberdeen and its German twin Regensburg. Their partnership was formed in 1955 and has been very lively ever since. The two cities engage in school exchanges, cultural and sports events and their universities are especially closely connected. Each year, several students from Regensburg University spend their ERASMUS-time in the Silver City. This year, I was one of them. After exploring Aberdeen for several months now, I think it is about time to present its German twin to the Aberdonians. Take out a map of Germany, have a look at its southeastern part and you will find Regensburg rather in the middle of Bavaria. It’s situated between Munich further south and Nuremberg further north. Eastwards you’ll find the Bavarian Forest, an area that, as I think, much resembles the Royal Deeside, where you can go hiking or (in winter) skiing. Unlike Aberdeen, Regensburg is really far from the sea but still it has its beaches – along the river Danube. During summer time, I love lying in the grass at the river banks with some friends, enjoying the sun and even going for a swim in the Danube. The area around Regensburg is also great for cycling, especially as the Danube cycle path that runs through Regensburg goes as far as Vienna or even Budapest. Yet not only does the surrounding region have a lot to offer, the city itself attracts crowds of tourists each year. It is especially famed for its many historic buildings and monuments. In 2006, the city became a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its impressive historic structures. In a region where the Celts had already been settling, the Romans founded a legionary fortress in 179 BC. It was called Castra Regina and

later Regensburg. During the Middle Ages it became an important place for politics and trade; a free city independent from dukes or kings, governed only by the Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire himself. Well, that’s past history now, you might say. But walking through the old centre of the city you will find that history is still alive here. You can detect Roman traces like the mighty stone portal “Porta Praetoria” where enthusiastic Latin teachers lead their classes regularly.

people sit around the squares and eat ice cream you will think that you’re in Italy, not Germany.

shops. This is definitely one of my favourite places: on my way through the city centre I choose to walk through these lanes whenever I have the time. Usually, the area is very quiet as few people pass through it. Most people do not even seem to be aware that these sleepy ancient lanes exist: they walk along the bigger streets with their many shops, restaurants and cafes.

Also, the city’s two impressive landmarks date from medieval times: a massive stone bridge across the Danube and a Gothic cathedral. The cathedral’s two towers can be seen from almost every corner of the city. Opposite its main portal you can enter a network of narrow lanes And the choice of cosy, indiwith lovely arts and crafts vidual cafes and stylish bars

During the Middle Ages, a class of wealthy citizens became established in Regensburg. Taking Italian cities as their example, they built impressive patrician houses and towers as you can find them in Bologna or San Giminiano. Therefore, many people call Regensburg “the northernmost city of Italy”. And really, if you stroll through the old town at a warm summer night when

is really vast in Regensburg. Often my friends and I can’t decide where to drink our coffee or meet for a beer. One of my favourite places is the “Orphée”, a café and restaurant in French style. During summer time you can sit at small tables in front of it in the narrow street. Nothing is more relaxing than watching people walk by with their shopping bags or cameras while you drink your café au lait and have a nice chat. Most of the city’s visitors, however, stop at the “Wurstkuchl” for a snack: this historic restaurant originated at the time the old bridge and the cathedral were erected and provided food for the construction workers. Today, you can try its famous bratwursts and many other traditional Bavarian meals. Going out in Regensburg is really fun. Like in Aberdeen, you can find a bar or club for every taste. In my first year at uni I regularly went to a place where people used to dance on the counter after a few drinks (it’s a bit like in the film Coyote Ugly); later I preferred dancing to indie rock in a club situated in some ancient vaults. Another favourite place of many students is the “Irish Harp”, a small Irish pub with live music almost every night. You see, you can even have a pint of Guiness in the middle of Bavaria. And there are a few more things that Regensburg and Aberdeen have in common. For example dialects that not everyone is able to understand.

Regensburg, above, and Aberdeen, below, have many similarities despite the difference in culture

Avant Chanel Katy Campbell FILM Directed and written by Anne Fontaine, Coco Avant Chanel tells the story of the rise of one of the greatest style icons the world has ever witnessed: Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel. It has been one of the most anticipated films this year, especially for the fashion circle. Played by the glamorous and utterly stunning Audrey Tautou, the biopic of the legendary designer starts with Gabrielle being left at an orphanage with her sister at an early age, and shows her climb to success. It portrays Coco Chanel, as a hard-working, independent woman, trying to break free from the stronghold that men had in France during the early half of the twentieth century. Showing how she made her claim on the fashion world, after working hard, eventually emancipating herself from the stereotype that women held at that time. Tautou plays Chanel as a woman not afraid to lie, not afraid to break the mould and not afraid of change.

Though the film at points does focus on her God-given talent, and the beginning of her career, the main focus is solely on her love life. It shows the struggles and heartbreak Coco went through, always knowing that she’d never get married, During my first months in or find love forever. Aberdeen I regularly found myself confronted with With beautiful setting and communicative taxi drivers exquisite costumes, Coco telling me their life stories Avant Chanel, is a five star – unfortunately I was only film for all you fashion able to nod and smile. followers, and French lovers Strangers to Regensburg out there. Audrey Tautou might have similar performs impeccably well; at difficulties in understanding some points you can see the the local peoples’ dialect Coco shining out in her. – malicious tongues even claim that it sounds more like the barking of dogs than human language. And there are more similarities between Aberdeen and Regensburg: both cities are important industrial centres, they are located in a region with beautiful sceneries and they are well known for their universities and a bustling student life. It seems that the twins are not that different at all.

Music

Gaudie 19th September 2009

By Way Of Introduction...

Hello from the Gaudie music team. We’re the taste-making, trend-setting buccaneers charged with navigating the tempestuous sea of pop culture with the simple desire of bringing you the finest in music journalism. Or it’s next best alternative. We’re looking for contributors for the year, so if you fancy free CDs, free gigs and maybe the odd interview opportunity fire us an e-mail to gaudie.music@abdn.ac.uk

Venue Guide to Aberdeen

Gordon Wallace MUSIC Freshers’ Guide To Aberdeen’s Live Music Venues AECC

The Daddy of Aberdeen’s venues, this behemoth resembles a large aircraft hanger much in the same vein as Glasgow’s SECC. However, the acoustics of the AECC are far superior to its Glasgwegian counterpart. Previous performers include the mighty Kings Of Leon, The Killers, Muse and 50 Cent, so expect similar crowd-pullers to visit in the near future. Café Drummonds Best for local up-and-coming bands trying to break out and make a name for themselves. Excellently located at the Union St end of Belmont St, this is a small venue of friendly charm and optimism.

The AECC: A Damn Sight More Handsome Than Her Glaswegian Counterpart

Tree The Warehouse (formally Moshulu) One of Aberdeen’s most famous venues, its walls are Recently repackaged as The soaked in artistic history. Warehouse, look to this Though perhaps better club’s previous name for a known as a venue for theatre clue as to the style of music at and stand-up comedy today, home in this venue. Situated the venue also hosts a wide underground, the low ceiling variety of music events. Pop and the dark décor make along on a Sunday afternoon for a great atmosphere to for free jazz performances. rock out to. Up-coming acts include Gallows, Funeral The

Lemon

A Friend, Idlewild The Music Hall Stiff Little Fingers. A concert hall originally The Tunnels established in 1822, the acoustics in this venue are Perhaps the most unusual excellent. Go to the Music venue, The Tunnels is Hall to see established bands literally situated under that have hit the big time, Union Street, and is made or are on the verge of doing up of two cylindrical halls. so. Will Young, Bloc Party, An intimate setting for club Franz Ferdinand and Enter nights and live music shows. Shikari are among the artists to look forward to this year.

For and

Origin

Snafu

A rough-around-theedges, claustrophobic club – perfectly suited to the dirty electronic beats played there. Check out DJs proficient in Dubstep, Drum & Bass, Grime and Techno music. Resident DJs Giles Walker and Tez know how to kick up a storm.

Home to arguably Aberdeen’s best Thursday night out: Dirty Hearts Club. Consisting of a decent blend of slinky electro that’s so hot right now, occasionally the odd band and drink prices to make you faint, Snafu is the place to try out that post-ironic Sesame St. tee or brand new keffiyeh.

Music

Gaudie 19th September 2009

gaudie.music@abdn.ac.uk

A Look At What’s To Come

Chris Regan MUSIC

The world is a big place. Digital communications and EasyJet might have you believe otherwise, but, really, it’s quite some size. Consider then, just how almost incomprehensibly humungouser the world of music is. See, the Earth is all terra firma and water with a few trees chucked in for good measure: the world of music, on the other hand, encompasses many worlds, runs the gamut of human experience and generally sticks its nose in wherever it sees fit. With all these parallel universes and psyches and muses at their disposal then, musicians have no good reason whatsoever for not churning out three albums a year. The Beatles did it and they got on OK. Amassed quite a following apparently (understatement five). Regardless, here are a few musical stepping stones to look forward to through the

coming months.

Built To Spill - There Is No Enemy The band responsible for the Foo Fighters’ early sound crank out album proper number seven. Set vocals to tenor and guitars to Band-ofHorses-nicked-our-soundharumph! Coming at you like a trainful of mellow October 6th. Julian Casablanca - Phrazes For The Young The Moody Stroke drops his first solo album October 19th. With the Strokes on (seeming) hiatus, Albert Hammond Jnr whipping up palatable pop jingles and Fab spreading more than a little joy with Little Joy (had to force my fingers to type that one), this record might offer an interesting insight into the inner workings of America’s most fractious rock band. Or it’ll be a half hour of incomprehensible mumbling.

Daft Punk: Looking Equally Badass and Preposterous Weezer - Raditude

DJ Hero

Named by Rainn Wilson (Dwight Schrute from The American Office and bezzie of Weez frontgaff Rivers Cuomo) and features a flying dog on the cover. That about covers it. Release October 27th.

Further down the Rockband/ Singstar/Get On Da Mic (it exists)/Guitar Hero path of interactive music gameplay without the stress of having to learn any instruments, DJ Hero looks as if it’s aiming for Oxford to re-

evaluate their definition of “The Bomb”. Featuring an impressive lineup of stars such as Fiddy, Justice, Marvin Gaye and the Beastie Boys aching to be molested by your chubby digits, the real crowning glory of the franchise looks set to be the unbelievable coup of having

specially commissioned Daft Punk mixes and playable characters. Release: October 27th That’s enough to get your mind gums round for now. After all, we will be catching up once a fortnight.

Twin Atlantic Live Gordon Wallace MUSIC

TWIN ATLANTIC The Warehouse Saturday 12 September Support: Sucioperro and The Ghost Of A Thousand It may be unfair to start off a review not by singing the praises of the band in question, but by comparing them to another, more widely known band. Let’s get this out the way – Twin Atlantic bear more than a passing resemblance to fellow Scots Biffy Clyro. Long hair, beards and tight trousers? Check. Strong West Coast accent? Check. Unpredictable song structure and quiet/ loud harmonics? Check. Shirtless performance from the leading man (and subsequent place

on embarrassing mancrush top 10)? Check. But Twin Atlantic have more than enough passion and integrity, not to mention spellbindingly unique anthems, to tempt them out from under the shadow of their aforementioned colleagues. For evidence of their superior (in a general sense, not necessarily in relation to Biffy) song writing skills, see the stop/start nature of fan favourite Audience and Audio. Lead singer Sam McTrusty flaunts his racy Glaswegian accent in an effort so genuine that other Americanised young British bands should hang their heads in shame (*cough* You Me At Six *cough*). And when

was the last time you saw a bassist hang up his guitar mid-show only to whip out an electric cello? The last few songs in tonight’s set are among the most riotously received closing half hour seen at The Warehouse, which, considering the venue is far from sold out, is quite an achievement. There is a lot of buzz surrounding the band at the moment, and on tonight’s performance, it isn’t hard to see why. Check out the band’s recently released minialbum, ‘Vivarium’, for further proof. Hopefully it won’t take as long for Twin Atlantic to receive the praise they deserve as it did for Biffy.

Opine

Gaudie 19th September 2009

gaudie.editor@abdn.ac.uk

What’s The Deal With Freshers’ Week? the biggest aspect of the initial week are the nights out and to an outsider they may seem decidedly pointless. Yet it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll meet more people during the Freshers’ nights out than you will for the rest of your first year at university, and, in my experience, you’ll have more fun than you’ve ever had before. For a lot of people university is a fresh start: the chance to come out of their shell and enjoy living away from home and the themed evenings add that extra element of fun to Freshers. Considering that university itself is such a commitment, it’s something of a relief to be able to act so ridiculously for a week and acclimatise to Aberdeen before the actual work begins.

Louise Ret Utter the words “Freshers’ Week” and what comes to mind? Is it a) the chance to meet lots of great new people, get to know the university campus, organise yourtimetableand join several sports clubs or societies, or b) seven completely depraved nights out with people you’ve just met? I’m guessing it’s the latter. So is Freshers even necessary or just an excuse for a week-long party? The whole idea of Freshers is to introduce innocent first years to the University itself and make them comfortable in their new environment – after all, University is going to take up the next four years of their lives. There are countless introductory lectures teamed with that allimportant advisor meeting to help you decide on your courses, not to mention both the Freshers’ Fair and the Societies Fair. However these all seem overshadowed by the gruelling induction we’re put through in the evenings, when it’s no longer important how many credits you’re taking this year: now what’s crucial is how early you can start drinking and still make it out to town. Perhaps this week just encourages binge drinking and uses up university resources; I mean, those initiation lectures

Hands up who wants to represent a facet of the Freshers’ experience could surely just be built in with our first week of classes, couldn’t they? After all, to some people, Freshers may seem like a waste of time and, to be honest, a bit draining. But of course those people are wrong. An integral part of university life is socialising. Think about it; you’re attending classes with these people, playing on sports teams with them and (in most cases) living with them,

ways than we’d think. There really isn’t time to be homesick in that first week if you truly take part in everything, and although there’s an element of fun to everything, it’s not all pointless theme nights. The Societies and Sports Fairs offer the opportunity to sign up for something other than studying. Obviously, you’re not going to be able But on a more serious note, to commit to everything that Freshers benefits us in more you put your name down for, so that first week of university has to be an intensive crash course in getting to know one another. We don’t have the benefit of years of getting to know each other and building on past experiences together – we have to make those experiences for ourselves, and nothing brings people closer than taking shots together.

but the point is to see what is out there and maybe try something new, be it a sport you’ve never even heard of before or a society that’s totally bizarre. Teams and societies are also a way to meet even more people, and more importantly, they’ll be people outwith first year. So the Freshers’ fairs seem understandable enough, but of course, in everyone’s mind

Essentially, the whole point is to socialise: to bond with the people who, like it or not, you’re going to be seeing a lot of for the next few years. It’s irrelevant, then, if some people disapprove of Freshers and its takeover of the whole week: it is the best possible way to be introduced to university life and to meet as many people as you can in such a short space of time. Provided that you make the most of everything that’s on offer, from the serious to the ridiculous, Freshers is the perfect introduction to university life.

How Times Have Changed...? Rebecca Munro In my workplace there is a book which has remained constantly present over the years. CDs have come and gone, Harry Potters have remained and then been decluttered, but this book has been a constant in the work for a while now. The book is entitled Cassell’s Book of Etiquette by “A woman of the world.” Now, you may think this book sounds like a dusty volume that should be sealed in a time capsule, never to see the light of day. However, I beg to differ. The book tells tales of the good old days, when etiquette was ever present, and people were cordial, well-mannered and generally jolly. The contents within the book detail topics such as how to visitsomebody, letter-writing, how to dress appropriately, and how to endure each meal of a dinner correctly. Personally, I think the art of letter-writing is underrated,

and I still address an email to someone of importance with the structure of a letter. It might get muddled with the HTML and open on the other side as though I’ve just gone to town with line spacing and indents, but the intent is there. It might come as a surprise to many, if not all of you, that I’ve actually taken etiquette classes in the past. Not voluntarily, of course, and it was all ludicrous. If you genuinely expect every guy you date to pull your chair out, stand when you depart to powder your nose, and show up with a posy of flowers from his garden, you are going to be sorely disappointed. With the era of feminist views sinking into every aspect of modern life, it is perceived as weak and submissive for women to require a man to fulfil these needs. A modern woman can pull her own chair out, thank you very much. She doesn’t need a man to escort her to the powder room, nor does

she need a corsage or pin to The latter may do a great deal show the world she’s off the of mischief in overturning things, and require the market. constant attention of their Take dance cards for owner, which interrupts example – not exactly a hot conversation.” At least I know topic nowadays, but would why I’m not invited. If we probably prove useful in clubs were to introduce the visiting and discos. Using the excuse once more, we’d probably of having a full dance card need to give up our jobs. We could allow you to escape would need to be at home the ordeal of dancing with much of the day, with tea a sleazy stranger. It could and scones ready on the offallow you to sort the wheat chance someone should call. from the chaff in a room full It sounds like quite a chore. of men desperate for some attention, and if you’re in the When it comes to dress, the mood for a night of dancing book enforces age limits on with your girls, fill the card clothing, and that in order to age gracefully, you should up with them. Sorted. accept your age and dress My favourite part of the accordingly, so that nobody visiting chapter is when it will mistake your fifty-yearold firmly suggests that when mother for a teenage hippy. calling round to someone Nowadays, “age refuses to else’s house, you should not admit that it should dress bring small children or dogs. differently”, which makes for Their explanation of why some interesting mid-life is fantastic: “The former, crisis choices. Admittedly, I besides often hearing much always think it’s strange when that they should not, are apt you come across a grown adult to make awkward remarks. in Topshop and New Look. I

don’t think their clothing has anything for those age ranges, and it seems like denial for a forty-year old to cling onto the fashionable trends of playsuits, PVC leggings and wearing sequinned hotpants. Admittedly, these trends are some of the ones that shouldn’t be attempted no matter what your age or body shape – they’re just wrong. Another titbit from the dress section is skirt advice. Okay, skirts are short now, and sometimes that can look nice, and sometimes you can look like you embody Pretty Woman and are just waiting for a nice man to pay for some nice clothes. Nonetheless, the book tells me that skirts should allow for complete freedom – I don’t think I’ve ever been completely free in a skirt, bar a full circle one. I have pencil skirts, where I can’t use steps or bend down. They look flattering, but they involve a lot of awkward manoeuvring. Mini-skirts, not of the Pretty Woman variety,

if worn without leggings, can involve an embarrassing flashing incident if worn in inappropriate weather conditions, or if you find yourself above somebody else, for example on a staircase, stage or balcony. To sum up, there are some rules and instructions in this book that seem out of place for modern times, but it holds a fond nostalgic of a time when people were polite, manners were used and respect was constant. If we won’t bring dance cards, fur trims and lace back to the forefront we should consider the most important elements and respect everybody equally, treat people with cordiality and present ourselves well, whether that means dressing for our age, phoning back the person you don’t want to talk to, writing thank-you cards for gifts or just saying please and thank you. These are the things that should never be considered “old-fashioned.”

Gaudie 19th September 2009

gaudie.editor@abdn.ac.uk

Editorial

This edition was put together on the neo-natal end of Freshers’ Week so it’s easy to imagine what’s going to happen but, as ever, things never go as you’ve planned. What makes the hellfor-leather approach most people appropriate during the first week of uni so worthwhile is confronting the unexpected: you never know what’ll happen but, if you keep your head, the tidal wave of new people expands and deepens your whole experience in ways you could never have imagined, usually in a mutually beneficial way. Inevitably, the highs come with some lows: homesickness can be a major kick in anyone’s previously optimistic plans for the start of the term and things may not be turning out the way you had thought. However, speaking from our own experience, we would urge that you push past that barrier: stick at it - things will even out. Our aims at Gaudie Towers - actually, it’s just an office - are to make the whole student newspaper business more inclusive, transparent and fulfilling. We’re here to provide a student view of the goings-on of 09-10 and we need you. Anyone can get involved: all you need to do is get in touch. We want to develop a campus-wide journalistic student body, and if you need any pointers - just ask. We’re always looking for contributors and we also need News and Sports Editors. We’ll be having elections for these positions the week after Freshers so check out our Facebook page for details or sign-up at the Freshers’ Fayre and we can email you all the details. Seeing the veritable smorsgasbord of events run by students going on, it’s clear that to make your ideal university experience it’s up to you to get involved. So gather your thoughts, attend what you fancy and stock up on paracetamol (because booze usually wrangles itself into any Freshers’ activity) and get ready for what might just be the best 168 hours of you life. In the meantime, we can be found at gaudie.editor@abdn.ac.uk And for anything else: www.abdn.ac.uk/student-support

Meet The Pres.

Welcome and/or welcome back to Aberdeen! I hope you’re all having a brilliant Freshers’ week, full of fun, excitement and preparation for the year ahead. I thought I’d better introduce myself and the Students’ Association (AUSA) to you: I’m Robin Parker, your new student President and the AUSA, well it’s pretty much you, you and even you, because if you’re a student at Aberdeen then you are a member of AUSA. AUSA is here to do a whole bunch of stuff for you, right from organising this amazing Freshers’ week, through fighting for your right to a quality education and the support you deserve, to helping a whole heap of clubs, societies and activities give you some amazing opportunities to have fun, make friends and learn new things. We’re here to be your friend and your helper, so pick up your AUSA handbook or swing by our website www. ausa.org.uk and see what we can do for you.

Let me give you an example of how it works, one of the things we support is this very newspaper you are reading. What we do is make sure that Gaudie is here for every student, whether you want to read it or write for it. Anyone can write for it, by the way, so come by Gaudie offices in the Hub and speak to one of the editors. What we never have done or never will do is have any say in what Gaudie writes about, so if you want to criticise the AUSA or the University, and both institutions are far, far from perfect, then please do! Criticism is what makes the campus an interesting and lively place. But it isn’t just about what AUSA can do for you. You are the members remember, so it is massively important that you do that and make sure that AUSA is really doing what is best for students at Aberdeen. Not only that, you can also have a very real say in the way the University and even occasionally the country are run. I guarantee it will empower you! The very first way you can do that is to join our Council and Committees and we’ll be holding elections in October, so make sure that you pick up a nomination form from the internet or our offices in the Hub. We have nine committees, with one to suit every taste, from Charities, to Equal Opportunities, to Environment & Ethics, to Sport. What ever you are keen on make sure you join one.

It’s also be Class Rep time. Every class has at least one Representative, whose job it is to find out what their fellow students think about the class and to pass that on to the department, so that your education improves. Being a class rep is a fantastic way to really be a part of your own education, but it also looks really ace on your CV, as all of our activities do. Finally, of course, there are our incredible clubs and societies, over 150 of them in fact. In fact, they are so good, that you, students, said that it made us one of the Top 10 Universities in the whole UK for clubs and societies. There really is something for everyone, from Archery to Accountancy, from Politics to Polo, if you do it we’ve probably go it. Although if not, you could always grab a few like minded folk and start your own thing off. We’ll also be working for you on big issues, like the cost and quality of your studies, accommodation and transport. I’ll be keeping this column going for you all so that you know exactly what we at AUSA are doing for you, so you can tell us what we are doing right, what we’re doing wrong and what we aren’t doing at all. Make sure you keep in touch, via the web, email, facebook or just by stopping me on the High St. AUSA is here for you so make sure you, Get Involved and Make a Difference.

Volunteer Of The Week A wee introduction to what volunteering can do for you

What’s your name and where are you from? Stuart Cowan, Tynemouth, Newcastle Why did you come to Aberdeen and what do you study? I loved the place when I came to visit and the departments I wanted to study in looked fantastic! I study French with Sociology Do you sit on a committee and which one? I’m on the Charities committee and I joined because I wanted to

get involved and give something back to Aberdeen. Do you have a favourite event that you take part in? I love the Torcher Parade. The atmosphere is always amazing and each year it just gets bigger and better! Do you do anything else? I’m a fresher’s week volunteer. I loved my freshers’ week and I’m really looking forward to helping this year’s freshers get settled in.

Do you have a top tip or a philosophy for the incoming Freshers? If you want to earn some easy and quick cash, get involved in University led research experiments. You get paid for doing very little! My philosophy is get involved as much as you can. It’s not only a really rewarding experience but it’s also a great way to meet banterous new people. The Volunteering Centre is on the 2nd floor of the Hub and is open 9-5 Monday to Friday

An Open Letter to First Bus Week 1: Aberdeen Students Forum The Hub Elphinstone Road Old Aberdeen AB24 3TU

What’s On?

11th September, 2009

Students in Aberdeen are disappointed and angry due to the decision by First Bus to abolish the student day ticket. Students are now seeing a 50% increase in the cost of daily bus travel which was already overpriced. At present, students can receive a maximum of only £5,100 financial support from the Government per year. With costs of accommodation in Aberdeen, food and other expenses including transport, the cost of living is approximately £7,400 a year. This leaves students over £2,000 below the poverty line each year. As a result of First Bus’s decision to eradicate the student day ticket the financial burden for students in Aberdeen has increased dramatically. Many students are now faced with the dilemma of whether they can afford to attend lectures at all. Furthermore, there exists the issue of congestion and environmental sustainability. People are being encouraged out of their cars and onto more sustainable methods of transport.With the current First Bus pricing strategy, people are being deterred from opting for public transport. We recognise that you have taken the student concerns to Members of the Board at First Bus Aberdeen and have proposed a re-introduction of the Student Day ticket at £3. However, this is essentially no discount at all as £3 is the same price as a standard day ticket. If a day ticket was priced at £2, it would take only 10% of the 60,000 students in Aberdeen to generate £12,000 for First Bus every day.

Vox Pop Launch www.vox-pop.org.uk 3pm

McCool Jazz The Lemon Tree - 12pm

SKA NITE! Imperial Leisure, The Hostiles, Heller State The Moorings - 8pm £3

The Alt.Freshers’ Welcome Hillhead Halls - 2.30pm

Moving In Madness Liquid - 10pm £4.20 students

Deaf Havana, Young Guns, The Casino Brawl Snafu 7pm - £7 advance from One-Up

Funky Transport Snafu - 11pm £3 before 12, £6 after

Official Welcome Party Liquid - 9.30pm £3 students

Tuesday 22nd

Monday 21st

Yours Faithfully, Graeme Kirkpatrick - President, Aberdeen College SA g.kirkpatrick@abcol.ac.uk Ross Murchison - President, Robert Gordon University SA ext.murchison@rgu.ac.uk Robin Parker - President, University of Aberdeen SA sapresident@abdn.ac.uk On behalf of The Aberdeen Students Forum.

“Aberdeen: An Anti-Fascist City?” New King’s 11 - 2pm

Fairtrade Cafe Chaplaincy Centre, High St. 12-2pm

Latin Night Tunnels 2 - 8pm £3 Beginners’ Salsa Class 7pm8pm

Snafu Comedy Club Snafu - 8pm £4/£3 students

Bat Boy The Musical Aberdeen Arts Centre 7.30pm £10 concessions

Love Music Hate Racism Charity Night Tunnels - 8pm £t.b.c.

Humanzi, Redfoot the Fence, The Elizabeths Tunnels - 8pm £5

Week 2: What’s On?

Thursday 24th Rage (15) Satellite Q + A The Belmont - 8.30pm Petrocollapse Presents Fresh (ers)! Tunnels - 9m Free Entry Flirt Divert & Waster Liquid - 9.30pm £3 students

Friday 25th Gilded Balloon Comedy Circuit presents Tobin, Lynn, Sloss & Walsh The Lemon Tree - 7.30pm £8 UV Neon Party Liquid - 9.30pm £4.20 Club No Borders Tunnels 2 - 10pm £4/£2 students

Monday 28th

Tuesday 29th

Aberdeen Lions International Fun Day Duthie Park - 11-4pm Free

The Xcerts, This City & Guests Tunnels - 7.30pm £t.b.c.

Boogie Nights - The 70s Musical Aberdeen Arts Centre 7.30pm £10 concessions

Morris: A Life With Bells On The Belmont - 3.30pm

Vodka Island @ Tiger Tiger £3.50 before 11pm, £4 after

Sunday 27th

minivàl The Motown Soul Bar Rooftop - 3pm £5 in advance/£7 at door

Letters To The Editor Since the resignation of Mark Highfield in 2003, Gaudie has been under the direct control of the Student President. It’s lack of editorial independence is appalling and, at least in theory, prevents the operation of a free press in the University. Gaudie should be providing an effective service to students and not to the Students’ Association. I am frankly ashamed to have

Wednesday 23rd

Alt.Film launch event: Fish Tank (15) The Belmont - 6.30pm £2

As the united voice of students in Aberdeen, the Aberdeen Student Forum calls upon First Bus to start seriously valuing core segments of their customer base and re-introduce the student day ticket at a reasonable price. We look forward to your response.

Sunday 20th

Saturday 19th

Dear First Bus,

Sir,

Listings

Gaudie 19th September 2009

a newspaper that has such I hope to see it flourish. It potential for censorship. has already obtained its first victory through market Students are, like any other competition with the regroup or individual in our introduction of Gaudie’s society, entitled to the right “Letters to the Editor”. of free speech. It is my opinion that Gaudie fails I hope further innovations to provide this. Thus, a new are in store and Gaudie student newspaper has been can restore its tarnished launched, Vox Pop (www.vox- reputation. pop.org.uk), which I am glad to see. It is most fitting and Yours, proper that students should have such an opportunity. Alexander J. Ryland

Fudge DJs Snafu - 11pm Free Entry

Ennio Marchetto Music Hall - 8pm £14 concessions

Hero Next Door Traffic Light Party Tunnels - 8pm £3

Saturday 26th The Alt.Freshers’ Pirate Party The Dunes - 9pm Radio One’s Aled Jones Live DJ Set Liquid - 9.30pm £4.20 Freshers’ Week Finale: Kaya & Cut... Edit... Rewind... Tunnels - 11pm £5/3

Wednesday 30th Chitty Chitty Bang Bang HMT - 7.30pm £17.50-39.50 Get Lost Liquid - 10.30pm £3 students Electrique Boutique Snafu - 11pm £3

Arca Felix, Helsinki Seven, Greater The Shadow, Katerwaul Cafe Drummond - 8pm

Gaudie has always welcomed letters and emails from students If there’s something you want to say you can post a letter Gaudie to : The Hub Elphinstone Road Old Aberdeen AB2 3TU Or email us at gaudie.editor@abdn.ac.uk However you want to contact us, we’ll respond.

Sport

Gaudie 19th September 2009

gaudie.sports@abdn.ac.uk

My Top 5 Summer Sporting Highlights

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJ0nErTYVOI

by Jack Arnold

1 England Winning the Ashes England’s dramatic victory to regain the urn and achieve revenge for the 5-0 thrashing received in 2006-07 was incredible. The twists and turns of the series were enough to turn my complete disinterest in the sport into an obsession.

2 British Success at the Athletics World Championships With the London Olympics looming, the championships were the perfect opportunity to show the world that Britain can still succeed at the highest level. Jessica Ennis and Phillips Idowu led the way to Britains greatest medal haul since 1999 and generated a sense of hope that athletics has recently been lacking.

3 Usain Bolt’s Incredible World Championships With so much expectation surrounding Bolt at the championships it was hardly surprising that 5.2 million people tuned in to watch him shatter his own 100m record and 3.9 million to watch him repeat the feat in the 200m. The incredible

times he recorded proved that he was worthy of the expectation placed on him and made everyone wonder just how fast he really could go.

4 England’s Qualification for the Football World Cup With Capello at the helm, English football appears to finally be reaching the level that fans have been expecting for years. With a history of under achieving the side has come into a lot of criticism– especially after failing to qualify for Euro 2008. The incredible form shown in the qualifying stages suggests that England should once again be considered serious contenders for the cup.

5 British Successes in the Tour de France The performances of Mark Cavendish and Bradley Wiggins were both exceptional in this years tour. In finishing fourth, Wiggins equalled the best ever British performance in the event. Add to this Cavendish’s incredible six stage wins and Britain has two success stories paving the way for the future of British cycling.

Eduardo “Dive” Sparks Simulation Debate John Braid In the heat of the moment, diving can prove to have devastating effects on the opposing team. Eduardo’s recent “dive” against Celtic has fuelled massive debate about the negative impact diving has on professional football. We chose to see the lighter side. Here are ten moments of comedy genius to make you smile.

SPORT

10. DIDA

Celtic v A.C. Milan A Celtic fan rushes on to the pitch to wind Dida up, and waves a hand in his face. Dida bravely decides to pursue his attacker before giving up and deciding that flopping to the floor, covering his face and being stretchered off is a nobler pursuit. What commitment.

Eduardo: the Arsenal player’s dive has sparked discussion on the whole matter of cheating in sport If that little tap to his face hurt him so badly that he needs a stretcher, playing a contact sport professionally was blatantly the wrong career choice - don’t blame Dida or the fan, blame the Brazilian’s Careers Adviser.

9. GILARDINO

Celtic v A.C. Milan The Milan club hardly cover themselves in glory in this particular top 10 do they? The Italian, Gilardino, takes the ball around the keeper, but when he realises he has hit it too hard and has wasted the chance, he tumbles down. He was arguably caught a few paces earlier, but you could practically hear the cogs of his brain turning as he deliberated what to do, and despite appearing to regain his balance totally, he flops down despite nobody being within yards of him.

8. SEAN DAVIS Portsmouth v Tottenham

There is a bit of a battle on the wing between Lee and Davis, which ends in a free kick to Spurs after Lee goes down. Davis is clearly frustrated and reacts by showing the referee what his thoughts on the matter are by performing a little dive of his own!

7. RIVALDO

Turkey v Brazil It’s a pity that even the best footballing nation on the planet needs to resort to this type of thing. The Turkish

player hits the ball over to Rivaldo who is waiting at the corner flag. Yes, the Turkish player hit it with some venom, but it hit him on the backside, and Rivaldo flies into the air and covers his face with his hands. To add insult to injury, the referee sends off the Turkish player. Comical!

6. ROBERT PIRES Arsenal v Tottenham

Stephen Carr is keeping tabs on Pires the Ponce. There is a bit of pushing around by both players, and Carr makes the mistake of putting his arm across Pires’ body for a split second. As soon as he does so, Pires spots the chance to get a free kick in a dangerous position, and goes down in pathetic fashion. Grow a pair.

5. HERNAN CRESPO Chelsea v West Ham

Dailly probably catches Crespo as he tackles from behind to get the ball. It isn’t much of a challenge, but is arguably a foul, but the referee plays on. Crespo drops to his knees and buries his face in his hands, but he is obviously peeking because he soon spots the ball has rolled loose and jumps up from his deathbed to try and get it. Shameless.

4. JENS LEHMANN

Arsenal v Bolton

This example of playacting has to go in - Jens Lehmann was always such an entertaining embarrassment. He features again in a moment too. The opposition player challenges legitimately for the ball as Lehmann dribbles it outside his penalty area. He may have been caught a little, but not enough to justify leaping up into the air, rolling around for a while then settling down to clutch his leg with a pained expression before realising he hasn’t won a free kick and leaps up. The change in his expression from the moment that he thought he could win a free kick to the moment where he realised he hadn’t won a free kick is priceless.

3. DROGBA & VAN BOMMELL Holland v Ivory Coast This isn’t a dive, but it deserves a mention. Drogba and Van Bommell are having an argument. There’s a bit of argy bargy, push and shove and the like, but Drogba steps it up a gear and wins the squabble by copping a feel of the Dutchman’s privates. Van Bommell takes the high road and merely sets about readjusting himself before play resumes!

2. STEVEN TAYLOR

Newcastle v Aston Villa

This is officially my favourite moment in football - ever! With the keeper beaten, an Aston Villa player is one on

one with Taylor, who uses his arm to block the shot as the keeper rushes to get back. Knowing what he has done, Taylor dramatically falls over like he has been shot, before writhing in agony to try and avoid a sending off, but the referee is having none of it and flashes the red card. Taylor doesn’t really seem all that surprised and quickly drops the act and marches off.

1. DROGBA LEHMANN

Chelsea v Arsenal This is another unbelievable moment. After a scuffle in the box, Drogba is running away, Lehmann chases him and gives him a tap on the back. Drogba flops down to the ground whilst Lehman runs away from him. Drogba then gets up and chases Lehman and taps him on the back. Lehmann then flops down to the ground and leaps straight back up. Then they both shout at each other a bit. And they point a lot. A real strong showing from both of them! Whilst cheating is obviously a serious issue, some of the attempts by players to con referees are obviously laughable. The plentiful supply of video evidence in the modern game means that players will rarely dive and get away with it. Instead, they can be named and shamed, albeit after the match itself has finished. If you would like to comment on any of the above, please feel free to email us at gaudie. sport@abdn.ac.uk.

Sport

Gaudie 19th September 2009

gaudie.sports@abdn.ac.uk

SPL Predictions 09/10 Once again the Scottish Barry Ferguson who has been Premier League starts its a key player over the past season in a similar fashion to many seasons. previous years. The race for third is more Rangers, the champions, and open this season. Aberdeen Celtic will battle for the title. have initially struggled under Celtic are looking slightly their new manager, Mark better for it at the moment, McGhee, and have also lost with a slightly bigger squad, a key player in Scott Severin. having had some money to Their lack of squad depth bring in new players during will be an additional factor the summer. Rangers on the in struggling to clinch third other hand have brought place. Dundee United have in one player, Jerome stability under Craig Levein, Rothen, on a year long loan. and this stability may be Furthermore, they have lost enough to guide them to

third spot. Their closest rivals, Hearts have struggled so far, but will come good as they have strength in depth, although they lack a good striker. In the bottom half, St Mirren are in danger of relegation, with newly promoted St Johnstone looking like good bets to stay up. Kilmarnock have struggled in recent years but in Jim Jeffries they have a manager with Premier League experience who should be able to keep them up.

Celtic Rangers Dundee Utd Hearts Hibs Aberdeen Motherwell St Johnstone Kilmarnock Hamilton Falkirk St Mirren

Kick Off: At the press launch last month

Linksfield Road Sports Complex New For 2009/2010 Session Continued from back page... The area comprises a 135m six-lane running straight, with specific, fully-equipped areas for long and triple jump, high jump and pole vault. Throwing events are also catering for with a stateof-the-art indoor throws cage, providing training opportunities for hammer, discuss, shot putt and javelin.

weights area, encompassing highly specialised lifting platforms perfect for high performance training. The Aberdeen sporting village is a triumph of collaboration from the University of Aberdeen, the City Council and Sportscotland. It is available to all; Students, community groups, members of the public. Even busy parents can take advantage of the Leaping Leopard crèche while the Lane 9 café will serve up refreshments including fresh coffee and snacks. On the site of the former Chris Anderson Stadium the ASV has raised the bar when it comes to sporting facilities, and it has not gone unnoticed. A football coaching conference with sessions from both Scottish Football Association and Manchester United performance coaches have already put the new state of the art facilities to good use.

For those involved in sporting activities the ASV is perfect, yet the numerous athletics and sporting facilities are only half of what the ASV has to offer. As well as being easily accessible the ASV’s state-of the-art fitness suite includes equipment designed specifically to ensure that it is as easy as possible to use for physically or visually impaired customers. Taking up much of the top floor of the Village, the Energy The University of Aberdeen’s Zone is packed with top- Principal and Vice class equipment including: Chancellor, Professor Sir 75 cardiovascular stations, Duncan Rice, complemented including high performing the new Sports Village as treadmills, cross-trainers, reflecting “the University cycle and arm ergometers, of Aberdeen’s ambition to rowing machines and become an institution which steppers, together with 30 can compete with the best resistance machines. FitLinxx universities in the world. – a sophisticated fitness The facilities will be of great management system, which benefit to all students with an is directly linked to the fitness interest in sport and health Note To All Sports Clubs: each equipment, a dedicated free and will help to promote the

university sports club is allowed two free advertisements in the Gaudie per term - make the most of them!

19th September

Sport Gaudie

Divers?

A look at some of the worst examples of play acting. Page 10

Sports Village Opens For Students This Year

Above: Just some of the new facilites in the new complex Linzi Barnett SPORT The £28 million Sports Village on Linksfield Road opened with a flying start on the 22nd August. The event was teeming with athletes of Olympic standard from around the globe. Two of the best athletes from Kenya put the new track to good use by attempting to run a mile in under 4 minutes. The local community was able to enjoy a Regional Basketball Tournament, a display by Aberdeen FC Youth Development squad, a Squash Tournament, bouncy castle, bungee run, and taster classes. There to enjoy was

also an exhibition of work by Steven McIver, who has travelled the world along latitude 41ºN, exploring the notion of the home ground and its relationship with the community. However, the 2012 Olympic training venue boasts much more than an exemplary running track and football ground. The football ground itself is a 3rdgeneration, FIFA-approved pitch, and is one of the first of its kind in the UK; making it not only perfect for football but for all multi-sprint sports. Furthermore the pitch happens to be made, in part, from recycled car tires and is surrounded by viewing portals, carefully arranged

to reflect the formations of World Cup winning teams and their colours. In addition to this the ASV also includes a large and airy Sports Hall the size of nine badminton courts, with the highest quality sprung timber flooring, complete with floor markings for badminton, netball, basketball, volleyball and indoor hockey, while integral netting systems allow for multiple cricket and archery bays as well as seating for up to 350 spectators. But that’s not all! It houses the best indoor athletics facility in the North of Scotland.

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