Seren - 169 - 2001-2002 - May 2002

MAY 2002

seren Official English-language paper of UWB Students’ Union

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STUDENT LEADERS MEET EDUCATIONAL MINISTER MEETING TO IMPROVE FUTURE OF HIGHER EDUCATION

IN A BRILLIANT move to improve the future of Higher Education in Wales today, Jane Davidson AM, Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, visited Bangor Students’ Union on Wednesday. She made the journey to meet with Union officials to discuss student funding and Welsh-medium teaching.

Present at the meeting were Andrew Wilson (next year’s SU President) James Brownsell (current SU President), Aled Ifan, Ellen Davies, Huw Tegid and Jeni Lyn Morris.

James Brownsell said of the meeting, “A couple of years ago we were only a small voice in a tiny town in North Wales. It is a testament to the work of the Executive that Bangor Students’ Union is now seen as an effective lobbying and campaigning organisation that has the opportunity to influence key decision making and really make a difference for the good students of Bangor.”

Ms Davidson was in talks with the Union representatives for over half an hour. Prior to the meeting Brownsell commented, “A lot of promises have been made to double the number of lecturers available to teach through the

CONTINUED PAGE TWO

BROWNSELL, DAVIDSON, DAVIES, TEGID, IFAN AND MORRIS AT THE S.U.

INSIDE THIS MONTH’S ISSUE...INSIDE THIS MONTH’S ISSUE...INSIDE THIS MONTH’S ISSUE...INSI p2 p8 p11 p12 Esso Careers Battle of Musicprotest specialBemani Live scandal Business Games bands!

2 SEREN May 2002

KIDS BOOK PRIZE: JUDGE

CHOSEN

NEWS

GREENPEACE BRING “STOP S S ESSO” PROTEST TO BANGOR B

Delyth Prys of Canolfan Bedwyr at the University of Wales, Bangor has been selected as one of the judges of a prestigious new book prize for the best children’s book written in any of the Celtic languages.

This is the first year of this new competition, the Clann Lir Book Award, (Children of Llyr) which has been organised by the North American Association of Celtic Language Teachers.

As one of the judges Delyth Prys BRITAIN’S BIGGEST ever global will be looking for attractiveness and warming protest is coming to Bangor suitability of the books for modern on Saturday May 18th when local readers as well as for the intended campaigners protest at the Bryn Llwyd and Bangor Service Station age group.

Delyth Prys, who has been Esso garages. The event is part of elected a Member at Large’ of the a national day of action against the Association, is an Welsh language oil giant, which is wrecking internaexpert and complies Welsh diction- tional action on climate change. aries at the University. She has also Campaigners are taking to the forepublished magazine articles and courts of Esso garages up and down the country on Stop Esso Day. Hunpoetry.

The Judging will take place at dreds of service stations are being the Association’s Conference in targeted in the protest, including the Nova Scotia, Canada between May Bryn Llwyd and Bangor Service Sta24-26 2002, where Delyth Prys and tion garage. The day of action, Geraint Wyn Jones, both of the Uni- which is being organised by groups versity’s Canolfan Bedwyr, are pre- including Greenpeace and Friends of the Earth, comes at the end of an senting papers.

“We hope that the publicity which international week of action against arises from the competition will Esso. Last month a memo to the help promote awareness of the White House from Esso was leaked, Celtic languages and encourage in which the oil giant asked Presithe use of newly published books dent Bush if the US could use its in Celtic language programmes in power to remove the head of the UN North America,“ said oslyn Blyn La- global warming panel. On April 19th Drew, President of the North Ameri- US lobbying led to the removal of can Association for Celtic language the scientist – British born Dr Bob Watson. teachers.

“Esso has done more than any other company to sabotage international action on global warming,” said local

STUDENTS’ UNION MINISTER VISIT - CONT’ FROM FRONT PAGE medium of Welsh, and to provide greater support for students. This will be an excellent opportunity for us to find out exactly how this is to be done. It is also a great opportunity for the Minister to find out about the specific needs of students in the North of Wales.”

It is hoped that the meeting has proved to be a step towards bilingual education in Wales and another step forward in the crusade against tuition fees.

news@seren.bangor.ac.uk

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BY L

Greenpeace campaigner Jonathan Lincoln. “We are bringing this protest to Bangor because we want drivers in the area to hear what Esso are up to. If people care about the environment they can make a difference by refusing to fill their tank at Esso stations.”

“We aren’t asking drivers to get out of their cars,” Jonathan added, “We are asking them to stop filling up at Esso. If we hit this company’s profits it might just see the light and stop wrecking action on climate change. At the moment they clearly don’t give a damn about global warming, but they will if drivers take their business elsewhere.”

Esso makes profits in excess of $15 billion a year, but unlike other oil companies, it doesn’t spend a cent on clean and renewable energy.

PROTESTORS WILL GATHER TO DISCOURAGE GLOBAL WARMING

ENTREPRENEURS REWARDED AWARDS TO BE CHAIRED BY BANGOR ACADEMIC - REPORT BY L.L.KIDNEY

A LEADING Welsh business academic from Bangor university has been chosen to chair the UK’s most prestigious entrepreneurship awards for the fourth year in succession.

Professor Dylan Jones-Evans of the School for Business and Regional development will act as chair for the Ernst and Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award Southern region finals, covering Wales and most of Southern England. This year’s regional final will take place at the Celtic Manor Hotel on July 1st 2002.

The Entrepreneur of the Year awards programme is a regional, national

and international annual scheme that identifies and recognises the achievements of outstanding entrepreneurs within successful growing dynamic businesses. The programme celebrates entrepreneurial success and recognises the benefits that entrepreneurs and their spirit bring to the economy in terms of job creativity and the UK’s competitiveness. The awards were founded and are produced by Ernst and Young. They are sponsored by the Citigroup Private Bank, The London Stock Exchange and The Times, as well as being endorsed by the DTI,

the BBC, the Design Council, the IoD and the Community Action Network. Last year, over four hundred of the UK’s most outstanding entrepreneurs were nominated for an award. Over two hundred and eighteen finalists were short-listed and a total of forty-nine individuals were recognised as regional award recipients at five separate awards banquets. The UK National Overall Entrepreneur of the Year 2001 was awarded to Vijay and Bhikhu Patel of Waymade Healthcare plc at a glittering awards ceremony held at Grosvenor House last Autumn.

academic@seren.bangor.ac.uk

S TANA TO SPONSOR BANGOR STUDENTS

BY L.L.KIDNEY, ACADEMIC EDITOR

The Stena Line, which runs fast and traditional ferries from Holyhead to Ireland, has sponsored 3 undergraduate students at the University of Wales, Bangor.

Carmel Kelly, who is currently studying Radiography at the University of Wales, Bangor received a £1,000 award as the student applying to Bangor with the best Irish Higher results. Carmel who is 19 years old comes from Cooraclare, Killrush, County Clare and is a former pupil of St Joseph’s Secondary School in Spanish Point, County Clare.

The other 2 students who each received ý500 awards from Stenaline are Bethan Eleri Ellis; 18 year old Bethan, from Cerrigydrudion, Corwen who is studying Welsh & Journalism and is a former pupil of Ysgol Dyffryn Conwy, Llanrwst, and Angharad Wyn Jones from Bethesda. Angharad who is 19 years old is also studying Welsh & Journalism and is a former pupil of Yssgol Dyffryn Ogwen, Bethesda.

Both attained excellent results in the University Scholarship examinations but were not awarded scholarship prizes due to lack of scholarship funds John Jones, Director of the University’s Development Trust said, “One of the selling points for students coming to Bangor is the proximity of the Irish capital. In fact, Dublin is only 2 hours from Bangor - considerably nearer than London or Cardiff. Therefore, we were pleased to come up with a package with Stenaline that gives some exposure to the company in the University. We expect that we can develop our partnership with Stenaline to offer various discounts and incentives to our 2000 staff , 8000 students and 31,000 alumni. They have kindly supported two students from Wales who qualified for an entrance scholarship, but there was insufficient funds to give them an award and the best student application from Ireland. In these days of student hardship, this kind of help from large companies is to be applauded.“ The donations are being given to the Development Trust which was established in 1984 and is the charitable arm of the University.

ACADEMIC NEWS

SEREN May 2002 3

BANGOR BUSINESS BOOM REPORT MAKES EXAMPLE OF UNI

A UNIVERSITIES UK report on knowledge transfer and enterprise culture at universities in Britain highlights the University of Wales, Bangor’s BioComposites Centre as an example of the way universities can turn their knowledge into business and contribute directly towards economic growth.

The government has identified enterprise as the third priority for universities after teaching and research. By sharing their expertise and forming spin-out companies, universities make a significant contribution to employment opportunities and wealth creation in the regions and in country as a whole.

Contributing to the economic strength of the region is a well established aim of the University at Bangor.

One of several research centres at the University, the BioComposites Centre develops new applications for renewable materials, such as wood and other plant fibres, and is particularly interested in developing renewable materials to replace materials derived from non-renewable sources such as petrochemicals.

The Centre has a world-wide reputation and is completely self funding, being financed entirely by contract research.

The report highlights two spin-

out companies to have been derived from the Centre’s work. Work on adding value to hemp and flax fibres has developed in the formation of two local companies. Biofibre, which has a plant at Llanfair-is-Gaer or Griffiths Crossing, near Caernarfon, is the primary processor.

The Company buys hemp and flax crops from local farmers and separates the fibres from the remainder of the plant. These are then processed further by JB Plant Fibres, also at Llanfair-is-Gaer, which adds value to the initial material by converting the fibres into a range of goods such as hanging basket containers and mulch matting for gardening and landscaping. “ I am delighted that our work here at Bangor is being used to illustrate the crucial role that Universities can play in contributing to the knowledge economy, “ said Professor Roy Evans, the University’s Vice-Chancellor.’the University aims to play its full role within the community. A very genuine part of our mission is to make sure that the knowledge generated by our research is transferred through to the benefit of the regional economy.

“We have long believed that to secure the long term future of the regional economy and indeed of wales as a whole, it is essential for that economy to be based on new knowledge,“ he added.

BRANSON: BUSINESS ROLE MODEL

CHURCHILL SCHOLAR TO TRAVEL THE WORLD

WINSTON CHURCHILL Scholar 2002 Lucy Drake-Lee is preparing to set off on travels that will be the chance of a lifetime! In June and July, Lucy will travel to America, Germany and Luxembourg to investigate interactive music education in Children’s Museums.

Originally from Birmingham, 23-year-old Lucy studied music at the University of Wales, Bangor from where she graduated in 1999 with a B.Mus. degree with first class honours, and with an MA in performance in 2001.

She now gives concerts regularly as part of the duo Ap-Lwsions with Sioned Roberts; is a clarinet and piano teacher; and is part-time Administrative Assistant for Anthem Cymru/Wales.

The Winston Churchill Scholarship will give Lucy the opportunity to

research two of her passions: music and education.

She said, “I feel ver honoured to have been awarded a Churchill Fellowship, it is the chance of a lifetime for me. I will be visiting Children’s Museums, centres where children “learn by doing“ which is very important, especially for Early Years children.

The museums are similar to places like Techniquest in Cardiff, where children learn and have fun at the same time! I look forward to returning to Wales in July brimming with new ideas and skills. I hope to use the new knowledge to develop music workshops for young children in Wales.“ If you are interested in music events for young children, phone Lucy on 01248 372505, or e-mail lucy@drake-lee.co.uk

CHURCHILL: SCHOLARSHIP NAMED AFTER HIM

COMMUNITY

4 SEREN May 2002

community@seren.bangor.ac.uk

MUSLIMS MARCH FOR PEACE AND A JUSTICE - PALESTINE SPECIAL

Exclusive investigation by Karl Sadil

ON FRIDAY 5th April 2002, around 50 people from the Muslim community marched twice along the High Street to protest against Israeli military attacks on Palestinian civilians. The demonstrators carried bilingual placards saying ‘Stop The War’ and ‘Stop Killing Muslims’, calling out messages such as, ‘Come and join us!’ and ‘We are all human beings!’ during the march.

One of the organisers, Abdullah AlSheik, said: “We are out here today to protest about what is happening to our brothers and sisters in Palestine. We simply want a peaceful solution and we are asking the people of Bangor and the rest of North Wales to join us in campaigning towards peace.”

It marked a significant change, as it is unusual for Muslims to organise and march in public in North Wales. Halfway through the brave protest by the Muslims, which was a non-violent demonstration with no arrests, at least one white man made a threatening gesture, and someone else shouted at the Muslims in a hostile way. This was a fairly irrational response to peaceful demonstrators who were calling on the Israeli government not to kill any more of their people. The protesters said they just wanted Muslims in Palestine to have the same human rights as everyone else.

Demographically, much of the land currently occupied by Israel has a majority population of Palestinians, in some places as high as 98%. People have to carry an identity card classifying them into two main categories, Jew or Arab.

Those attending a recent West Bank anti-war demonstration were told via the Internet not to forget their cards, as being stopped by the police without a card is an arrestable offence. Despite Israel having one of the most envied rescue organisations in the world, Israel has refused to send its own rescue teams to help Palestinians, and so international organisations have sent teams instead. However, Israel does its best to thwart efforts by international humanitarian organisations, media and activists to reach the Palestinian people.

Those in the mainstream and alternative media who have made it through the barricades, have reported large-scale breaches of human rights such as the deliber-

ate murder of doctors, nurses, and civilians from babies to the elderly; and the destruction of homes, property, and medical equipment –even schools. Curfews imposed on Palestinans can mean that anyone who ventures outside is shot, forcing families to stay indoors without food, water or medicines, and often alongside the bodies of slain relatives. It is part of Islamic belief that ideally bodies should be buried within a day, which adds further distress to their grief.

Much of the killings of Palestinians have occurred in Jenin, but others happened elsewhere. One Jenin man, a wheelchair user, was wheeling himself away from the soldiers and they sent a tank over him. His wheelchair was crushed flat and his distorted body was found some distance away down the road. Two sisters, one a nurse, went out with noncombatant symbols to try and help the wounded, and the nurse was deliberately shot by the Israeli army. Jericho, a former fertile region, is increasingly arid because Israeli settlements receive almost all the water. Meanwhile, a young Irish woman called Caoimhe is actually living inside the Ramallah compound with Yasser Arafat, who she sees at least once a day. She has reported back to the global community of Internet activists, many of whom have networks across Wales. Caoimhe says that she believes in the cause of the Palestinians, ordinary humans who mostly just want to get on with their lives.

Unfortunately, the minority of the people on each side of the conflict stir up hatred, perpetuating the violence. Reprisal after reprisal means that generations grow up seeking revenge. Additionally, Israel is a major arms manufacturer and exporter, specialising in products such as small arms (Will Self, Correspondent, BBC 2 Wales, 28th April). Activists have called for a global boycott of all Israeli goods, such as oranges. The Students’ Union of London’s School of Oriental and African Studies passed a resolution against Israel and for the boycott of goods from Israel. Similar motions were defeated at SU’s in York and Manchester. 16-year-old Aneesa Ahmed from Blackburn wrote to The Muslim News, “Every day, we see pregnant women being

GIVE PEACE A CHANCE, SAY PEACEFUL PROTESTORS IN BANGOR shot at, by an American-financed army. Old people being thrown out of their houses, by an army supported by America, men being blown up in their cars, by an army armed by America, and you expect me to love America, ‘our saviour’? Give me a break!”

The irony is that the Jewish people, persecuted for centuries by ghettoisation, disenfranchising laws, and pogroms, and in the 20th century by the Nazis in the Holocaust, have as a nation now imposed the same standards and mindsets over another population. It is a sad sight to see, the apartheid being practised against the Palestinians.

Not every Jewish person, though, is a supporter of the policy of Ariel Sharon. Yesh Gvul is a group of conscientious objectors who refuse to serve in Palestinian territories. There are now many Jews who are standing up against the bloodshed, and who say that killing Muslims is against Judaism. Other groups include: Gush Shalom, Jews Against the Occupation and Ariga. In some cases they have been working with Muslims who believe it is unIslamic to kill Jews, that killing those who are different contradicts the fundamental principles of Islam, which is supposed to be a religion of peace. Jihad is

a concept of holy struggle in Islam, which some people have interpreted literally to mean that Muslims should use violence. But some local Muslims here have explained that jihad is actually a struggle within oneself so one lives ‘in the right way’. Islam is a faith for those of any ethnic background.

There has been a Muslim presence in North Wales for many years. Most of the older members of Bangor’s Muslim community have lived here a number of decades, hold secure and respectable jobs, and are settled and integrated in Welsh society.

All speak English and some can even speak Welsh. They contribute to our regional economy, with many businessmen and international students coming to the area. Families send their children to local schools where they learn English and Welsh, making them at least trilingual, which is fast becoming a positive benefit in a multicultural global community of the 21st century. It is time to promote hope and diversity, not hate and divisiveness. As reported in the local press and in Seren, last autumn following September 11th the local mosque in Bangor was externally vandalised with graffiti, and Muslims living in North Wales have been intimi-

dated, harassed or attacked. This behaviour does not fit into any definition of ‘civilised’, however you look at the issue.

After last month’s demonstration dispersed, the Muslims invited two local journalists, representing Bangor and Anglesey Mail and Seren, into the Bangor Islamic Centre and Mosque.

They were introduced to the imam, and were given a tour of the building, being shown rooms for prayer, teaching, ritual washing, eating, etc. The mosque boasts an extensive library, holding works in Arabic and other languages.

A local women’s group, Shekina, has a large number of Muslim women from around the world.

Bangor’s peace movement now contains both Jewish and Muslim members, so on a small scale there is some hope. Colin Powell’s apparent failure to resolve the Middle East crisis is a setback, but latest reports that Yasser Arafat may be granted a conditional release could reduce some of the resentment felt by Palestinian communities.

The response of Seren’s Community section would be the same if Jews were the people being subjected to wholesale persecution.

Holocausts of all kinds: No More, and Never Again!

community@seren.bangor.ac.uk

COMMUNITY

SEREN May 2002 5

ALL-WALES FESTIVAL FOR PEACE

ON 23RD February, Seren Community travelled to Aberystwyth to attend the All-Wales Festival for Peace. It was a coalition of rights groups coming together against the war in Afghanistan.

Bangor was mainly represented

by Jenny Gaiawyn. A banner reading ‘End the Israeli illegal military occupation of Palestine’ was opposite another that said ‘Millions are suffering, End the sanctions on Iraq’.

Alec Jones, the Mayor of Aberystwyth, opened the festival. He said he had received a message of support from the Mouvement de la Paix in Paris, France.

Jill Evans MEP was originally from the Greenham Common march and is now the Chair of CND Cymru. She is from Plaid Cymru. She said Wales 20 years ago wanted a nuclear-free Wales. She still wants Wales to become an example of a NuclearFree Zone, and she wants other countries to take this on. The European Network for Peace was set up in early 2002. Globalisation is about control, not justice and peace. “We must have the right to control our own futures.”

Jenny Gaiawyn has lived at peace camps with the coordinators of Trident Ploughshares. She took med-

icines to Iraq with Voices in the Wilderness, to break the sanctions that have been in place 11 years.

The sanctions are violent measures and do cause death and pain. They have killed 500,000 under-5s. Only oil can be traded.

Iraq’s infrastructure has been destroyed and can’t be rebuilt yet, because there are no funds.

There is no clean water supply and no electricity. Doctors can’t get new medical books or up-todate training. There has also been massive inflation - 10,000 dollars worth of money in Iraqi currency (1990) is now in 2002 worth 5 dollars. The average wage is only enough to rent a room for a month, excluding food. Mass malnutrition is occurring, especially of the most vulnerable people. Iraq has a population of 22.5 million.

“The people are not their government”. The sanctions are being carried out in our names. The education system is collapsing.

Jenny met a 14-year-old boy called Ahmed, who looked 10 because of malnutrition. He said he’d like to be kidnapped to the UK because then he would be able to go to school.

Ken Booth is the Head of the

Department of International Politics at the University of Aberystwyth.

In conventional thinking, ‘just war’ is a crusade, a duty. Once you start thinking justice/right/God/duty is on your side, it allows you to do anything.

“Once self-righteousness sets in, a pious certainty of right develops. Guilt diminishes, conscience

“The sanctions are violent measures and do cause death and pain. “ is silenced.” The so-called ‘just deterrent’ is the deliberate targeting of millions of innocent civilians. Bush’s phrase ‘The Axis of Evil’ has echoes of Reagan’s phrase ‘The Evil Empire’ used of Russia in the Cold War. Ken Booth is not a pacifist. He believes in self-defence and in defending the law, for example against genocide. It may be morally excusable but it is not morally right. The peace movement is still very alive

and important.

Aberystwyth Students Against the War have over 300 members.

Lydia Bulmer said we should discuss the reasons for war and the ways to achieve peace.

James Radcliffe said the media have sided with the warlords and have even asked the opponents of the war to apologise! “I refuse to apologise.” Who will we attack next? The USA is the most warlike nation on earth. “The real anti-Americans are the American government themselves. A nasty brutal rightwing administration.”

They should apologise to us.

Ben Gregory is a coordinator of many groups, including Cynefin Y Werin.

The USA pulled out of the talks at Kyoto. They refused to curb their gunrunning and to agree to disarmament. They deleted international aid and development from their budget and policy. Justice and peace are mutually dependent.

Julian Goss is a socialist and anti-capitalist. He was a founder of Wales Against the War. A UN report of 1996 revealed that over 100 countries of the world have less GDP (gross

domestic product) than they did 15 years previously (1981). This is due to the World Trade Organisation, World Bank, International Monetary Fund, USA, and international trade agreements that punish poorer countries.

Greenham Common Peace Camp were running an appeal to raise money for ‘Helen’s Garden’ at the Commemorative and Historic Site. Helen Thomas was 22, and died 11 days before she was due to turn 23. She was killed in 1989 at Greenham Common by the police, while trying to post a letter. Send a cheque with ‘Helen’s Garden’ on the back, made payable on the front to GREENHAM COMMEMORATIVE FUND APPEAL, to: Dept. GWPC, 15 Sydney Road, Wanstead, London, E11 2JW. The Welsh Anarchist Association is an Aberystwyth-based allWales group run by students. It is against the ‘war on terrorism’ and for discussion of alternatives.

Leftwingers who aren’t committed to anarchism are also welcome. It is an anti-racist group, for civil liberties. It is a nondogmatic communication network. To join them write to welshanarchists@yahoo.co.uk.

S.U. PRESIDENT “QUITE PLEASED” IN FEBRUARY, Student Volunteering Bangor (formerly Student Community Action) held a Volunteer Fair in the PJ Hall at Main Arts. There was free food and drink, entertainment and a bouncy castle.

The aim was to promote volunteering, both with SVB and in the wider community with independent voluntary organisations and community groups.. SU President James Brownsell had a go on the bouncy castle and said he was “quite pleased with it” when Seren asked him how he thought the afternoon had gone.

Syrcas Circus provided displays and workshops on juggling, platespinning, diabolos, and unicycles.

Dimensions Wholefoods supplied food and fairtrade goods as well as health magazines. SVB had 2 stalls at which they were enrolling prospective volunteers, who like all volunteers must undergo a rigorous screening process before they are hired and considerable training afterwards.

RSPB Cymru protects wild and garden birds, and helps to conserve their habitats. They want a lot of volunteers. To be an Information Volunteer four days a month at South Stack, phone Alastair Moralee on

(01407) 764973. To do reedbed work in the mud at Valley and South Stack, call Ian Sims at the same number. An office DIY person and a birdwatching/ identification tutor are wanted; call Mair Evans, the Development Officer, on (01248) 363800. If interested in photography call the senior reserves manager, Richard Farmer, on the same number. If you want to survey black grouse, call Patrick Lindley on (01978) 844475. The Marine Conservation Society North Wales is mainly concerned with large marine mammals, including cetaceans, and runs porpoise and coastline surveys. On 26th May there is a sponsored walk around South Stack on Anglesey to help whales and dolphins. Call 01248 351560 or email g.stoyle@ntlworld.com Or order catalogues from MCS Sales Ltd at (01989) 566017. To help skates and rays in Wales, there is a Welsh Ray Project coordinated by the Shark Trust and the Welsh Federation of Sea Anglers. It is funded by the National Marine Aquarium, G.O. Angling, North Western & North Wales Sea Fisheries Committee, CEFAS, Countryside Council for Wales, and BioSyB of National Museums and

Galleries of Wales.

General charitable bodies present included the Community Fund, which makes grants available to selected not-for-profit groups. Conwy Volunteer Bureau and Mantell Gwynedd Volunteer Bureau, also Student Action India, Opportunities Centre, and Medrwn Môn Voluntary Work, are general suppliers of volunteers.

SVB helps disadvantaged children, children in creches, disabled people, homeless, mentally handicapped/learning difficulties, and elderly people. (svbangor@undeb.bangor.ac.uk) Christian Aid is a Christian-ish charity that helps the poor of developing countries. People and Planet (formerly Third World First) is for fair trade and the end of third world debt, using fairly traded food to empower the poor abroad. It is also for the protection of the environment. Annie’s Orphans is a Christian charity run by the Assemblies of God church, which helps the lives of orphans in poor countries. Bangor Rag raises money through sponsored fun events, for deserving local charities.

Arthritis Research Campaign, Epilepsy Cymru (office@epilepsy-

wales.co.uk, or call Richard Williams on 07740 813850), North Wales Deaf Association, and Multiple Sclerosis Society deal with sufferers of specific health conditions. St David’s Hospice cares for dying people in North Wales, and holds a lottery to raise funds.

Abbey Road Centre is a mental health service users centre where people affected by mental illnesses can go for counselling and group support. Arfon Mind is also based here, a charity for the mentally ill. Nightline counsels stressed students at night.

The Greenhouse is a drop-in centre, meeting place and hub of activism, which needs its own volunteers. Community Transport Association gives transport solutions to elderly and disabled people. SOVA Cymru is for the rehabilitation of young offenders and the reintegration of the unemployed. (01978 262223 or Catherine Sharp on 01745 343215.)

Shekina Multicultural Women’s Group gives education, training and social contact and support for women from other countries.

Sussed ‘n’ Able is a Permaculture Project to help the environment. They are into reusable energy, low-impact living and sus-

tainable development. One of their projects is the construction of yurts (Mongolian circular dwellings). If you want to build a yurt, email Resi at resi@tesco.net .

Princes Trust Cymru is a volunteering scheme for young people interested in conservation and the outdoors. Antur Waunfaur helps people with learning difficulties and is also a centre for the environment and sustainability. BTCV Cymru, the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers, wants lots more volunteers, so look them up in the phonebook.

BOUNCY CASTLE FUN FOR BROWNSELL

STUDENTS’ UNION

6 SEREN May 2002

su@seren.bangor.ac.uksu@

I WANNA BE ELECTED!

BOB CONNERTON HITS THE ELECTION CAMPAIGN TRAIL

SINCE THE last issue of Seren, the most significant event that has occurred was the SU Elections – where the officers for next year should have been elected. The whole process was not without hitch. Due to the Union’s stance on Welsh-English bilingualism, and a complaint from within the Welsh Community, all nominations were re-opened for an extra few days – during which time, one extra candidate applied for the position of Llywydd UMCB – President of the Welsh Students’ Union.

After the nominations stage, there is supposed to be a period for candidates to prepare and submit their advertising preparation. This didn’t go as smoothly as it should have, and due to the print unit not being informed in advance, all candidates faced a delay in getting their propaganda. Indeed, it was only during the hustings period that propaganda was returned to candidates.

So then Hustings came about – a chance for the Union’s members to scrutinise the candidates – although due to the inherently bureaucratic process of hustings, candidates are not permitted to attack other candidates policies, and questions that are to be posed, must be answered by all candidates for the job. These were, like many of the Union’s democratic processes, incredibly poorly attended. It had become a question by the time of the Normal Site hustings, well into the process, that the only people attending were candidates and their core supporters. Of course, had there been an interim Seren, perhaps more advertising could have been done …

It also appeared that at each hustings, once candidate for the AU had withdrawn, taking some five candidates down to one by the end of the process.

Fun hustings, the traditional time for all candidates to get pissed and enter ritual self-humiliation took place in remarkably sober surroundings – The SU’s Main Bar, and was, for one of those rare occasions, actually open and serving booze in the afternoon (see Columns passim – whoops, too much Private Eye again …). Previously, candidates have used this as an opportunity to grab those last minute votes as well as get pissed in the name of democracy.

We had songs, dance, water throwing, juggling, music and ‘comedy’.

The Welfare candidates sang a

dedication to what old gits like me call the Welfare Centre – to the tune of the world’s favourite gay anthem – the Village People’s YMCA – lyrics circulated for the audience, and complete with hard-helmets I believe. Unfortunately, not a handle-bar in sight The Presidential candidates ‘sang’ Python’s “Always look on the bright side of life” – but two thirds were in drag (myself included), the other topless save for a bra. Sang being of questionable status, given my own hatred of singing, and therefore in a Bob-Style Noël Cowardesque manner. The photo of course, happened to be the language selection background picture on the Union’s Website for a few days …

CCSO candidates joined in the fun – and here came further songs (Bill Shatner’s version of Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds, as performed by Chapman), Water throwing by Rob Strickland, which started off the ritual water-throwing at all.

The UMCB wanna-be presidents performed, Ifans had a stand-in due to preservation for Choir the following day, and Wyn Evans combined stand-up comedy with vocal exercises – and sometimes both …

Jon Ewing, the apparent MC for the elections affair, once again reminded the Union of his singing abilities, and performed a comedy ditty which involved an Irish accent …

Of course, not all candidates made it, and as with the whole campaign, this was another lighthearted affair.

The humiliation and hustings over, it then came to voting.

In all, approximately 1500 students voted, some 17% of the 9,000 odd UW Bangor students – hardly representative, and I suspect, closely based on the Union’s funding strategy.

So, what did the people running the election have to say? Rich Singer, a Union Veteran, and the Elections Sec, has already reported to the Union on the elections – something which those in Unionland don’t recall happening previously. It does mean that a precedent has now been set, so hopefully it will carry on next year. Although fairly round, and of course, the full report will be published, it has

THOSE ELECTED

SABBS:

NON - SABBS TOP ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: SU PRESIDENT, ANDREW WILSON, AU PRESIDENT BECKY ALLEN, SCA OFFICER, REBECCA HEWITT MIDDLE ROW: CCSO, HELEN WRIGHT, UMCB PRESIDENT ALED IFAN, WELFARE OFFICER, KIRSTY HAYSOM BOTTOM ROW: LGB OFFICER, ROBERT PIRIE-WARSOP, WOMEN’S OFFICER, SARAH HAINES

some alarming points – “generally there was a lack of participation by the electorate” which it is feared “will not only isolate the Union from the greater student population but also, as closed elections often tend to, potentially indirectly discriminate against groups”. On the funding issue, Mr. Singer feels that it is “chronically low” which he feels means that the Union is “unable to produce any real publicity or provide anything other [than] the basics to allow an election” – comments which Seren feels must have action taken on if the elections are to be considered as a democratic and representative affair, and not just a formality of a contest between those closely associated within the Union.

To those elected, there are difficult challenges, and in my nostalgic look-back on my three years

LIFE’S A DRAG: PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES GET GIRLY here in Bangor, two and an half the Union really must change, in the Union, I feel that the Union and become more representahas a lot to do. Successive tive. Our members must become administrations – included those more involved, else, the Union of which I was a member, did not will become a closed circle – act in the best interests of the a ruling elite, where only those Union’s members, and did not effected will speak. This will be a do enough for the members. sad day should it occur.

For this I am genuinely sorry:

STUDENTS’ UNION

su@seren.bangor.ac.uk

SEREN May 2002 7

LIFE IN THE UNION

JAMES, OUR esteemed, President has written his review of the year, which means you can read something of his, not mine so I commend that to you, and other than that, the only things that remain are a very abridged round-up of the Union’s Annual General Meeting …

For roughly five hours, added bureaucracy, obscene red-tape, and long overdue processes held up the fun of decision making. For some unknown historical reason, the Union’s Annual General Meeting is a revered occasion when there are plenty of reports and oodles of paper. Here, all of the committees are meant to report on their actions, but in practice, the reports are never submitted in writing in advance, so an abbreviated version is given. James has summarised this in his State of the Union address, and the full report will be published somewhere on the Union’s WebSite I guess …

Anyhow, the import issues that were resolved by about sixty who bothered to turn up, were that the Union’s boycott against Shell would not be renewed, but the Nestle motion – first introduced in 1995 was renewed – the Union still boycotts Nestle. Other business, there will be a new Welfare Committee to organise Welfare campaigns, The Union is to take positive action campaigning for a Welsh Federal College, there will be a Post-Grad

officer on the Union’s Exec Committee. Then there was a motion to investigate the relationship between the Trading Company, the Union and its members. Seren’s own reservations on this matter are that the investigation won’t be independent, or necessarily receive a full picture. That will be allegedly be introduced to the General Meeting in October/ November next year…

A few more officers and Committee heads were elected: Seren’s editor next year will be Dave Bennett, who stepped down from the role of Mature Students’ Officer; there’s also been a Welsh Affairs Officer elected for the first time in two years; Stephen Glencross takes the Chair next year, and Helen Browning takes the role of Exec Without Portfolio. Ken Bower becomes the only General Meeting elected Senator. A RAG manager has also been elected.

The Union’s greatest Honour – Honorary Life Membership has also been granted to a few people – most of the Non-Sabbatical Officers who completed a term in office; Bob Connerton; So that’s my report. Bob Connerton. Seren News, Bangor.

Have a fun summer, enjoy the ball, and take care. I’m leaving Bangor, although I will probably be back some time next year …

EXEC LINE - UP

Full-Time Sabbatical Officers President: Andrew WILSON UMCB President: Aled IFANS Clubs and Comms: Helen WRIGHT AU President: Becky ALLEN Welfare Officer: Kirsty HAYSOM Volunteering: Rebecca HEWETT

Non-Sabbatical, Part-Time Officers Chair: Stephen GLENCROSS Exec Without Portfolio: Helen BROWNING LGB Officer: Rob PIRIE-WARSOP Women’s Officer: Sarah HAINES Welsh Affairs Officer: Jeni LLYN MORRIS

Vacancies:

Standing Committees

Campaigns Officer

RAG Manager: Katie Schreiber

Convenor

Seren Editor: Dave Bennett

Nursing Rep Disabilities Officer Education Officer International Students’ Officer Normal Site Rep

WRITERS NEEDED: Are you interested in journalism? Got something to say that you want everyone to hear? Do you just want to get involved in something fun? If you are and you will be in Bangor next year, Seren would like your help. We are looking for writers and section editors for September. Seren gives you the oppurtunity to voice your opinions, gain experience and be part of a fun team. also looks great on your CV.

It

Whether you are interested in news, films,

games, books or creative writing, Seren will have something for you. We also welcome help with the technical side e.g. photography, layout. Contact us at NASTY BOYS: NESTLE BOYCOTTED BY UNION AGM

serensays@hotmail.com if you want to know more.

FEATURES

8 SEREN May 2002

editor@seren.bangor.ac.uk

I WANT TO BE MY OWN BOSS -

CATERING INDUSTRY - KIRSTY GOATCHER, MANAGER OF MIKE’S BITES Kirsty Goatcher, Manager of Mike’s Bites in Upper Bangor, decided to enter the catering trade after deciding that life in her home town of Brighton was getting far too hectic. Her husband Mike suffered a heart attack due to his stressful job as a funeral director, and it was that that prompted their sudden decision to move to Wales.

“I had family in North Wales,” says Kirsty, “and I always enjoyed visiting them during holidays.”

She had the brainwave of opening a café, and felt that Upper Bangor was the place to be. She waited eight months for the perfect location, drawing

together money from savings and a bank loan, and eventually opened the shop in August 2001, with her brother Sam Perry as Assistant Manager and her husband as a partner in the business.

The first two months were difficult, as they were making a loss. Says Kirsty, “I worried a lot, thinking ‘What if it doesn’t work out?’ So I went on a course and found out that most businesses make a loss for their first year.”

Fortunately for Kirsty this wasn’t to be so. In the third month they made a small profit, and by the sixth

MIKE‛S BITES

KIRSTY SHUNS THE TRADITIONAL COUNTER IN FAVOUR OF LEANING ON SAM

OPEN 9-6 EVERY DAY!

18 HOLYHEAD ROAD, UPPER BANGOR,NEXT

all the debts were paid off. Now they make a tidy profit that allows them to support staff wages.

Kirsty enjoys the feeling of selfsufficiency in owning her own business.

“As your own boss, every minute of work you put in is for you, and if you turn up late you won’t get told off! But the harder you work, the more rewards you see. You get a real sense of achievement.” She also likes to keep her hand

if anything goes wrong in the shop, the blame will always fall at her feet.

As you can expect, working so closely with the public can lead to some encounters with some odd people. Kirsty has had her fair share of these, and has had to deal with some awkward, and often downright rude or unreasonable requests. “I remember one man, about fifty years old, coming in and complaining about five tuna mayonnaise baguettes he’d bought the day before to take away. He said they were off, and wanted a refund, so I went into the kitchen to ask Sam about it. He said he didn’t remember making five tuna mayo baguettes all at once – and that’s something you’d remember!

– so I told the man that I’d phone the supplier and ask about the tuna they’d sent. As soon as my back was turned, he ran out. You’d think a man his age would know better than to try and cheat someone like that!”

On the whole, Kirsty very much enjoys her life at Mike’s Bites – “Apart from getting married to Mike, it’s the in all aspects of the business, and isn’t best thing I’ve done” – and has plenty afraid of mucking in with the rest of the of advice to any budding businesspeostaff – “If I expect my staff to do some- ple out there. “You’ve got to be deterthing, I want to know that I can do it mined to do it. If you really want to do too.” it, someone will lend you the money.”

The downside is mainly in the Her own inspiration came from an interhours spent working. “I work sixty hours view with Richard Branson, in which he a week at the moment, so I don’t see said “Life is short – take a chance. If much of my husband, and when I do it works, it’ll be the best thing you ever I’m often thinking about the business – did, and if it doesn’t, it won’t be the that’s a definite downside. There’s no worst.” time for holidays either.” Furthermore,

“Apart from getting

married, opening my

DOOR TO BOOZE BUSTER

own business is the

OPEN 8th JUNE FROM 5.30am for post-ball brekkie

best thing I’ve ever

THE PROPRIETOR AND STAFF EXTEND THEIR THANKS TO THE STUDENTS OF BANGOR FOR ALL THEIR CUSTOM THIS YEAR.

done.”

FEATURE

editor@seren.bangor.ac.uk

SEREN May 2002 7

S - CAREERS SPECIAL ANDY ROBERTS opened Summit Games last November as Press X Games, and has since bought out his partner’s share in the store.

He used to be a taxi driver, and had a friend who owned his own small games shop. It was something that Andy had thought about doing. Through conversation they decided to go into business together on a larger branch, and so Press X was born.

Says Andy, “You need to know a lot about what you are selling, and I was a games addict. You have to have life experience, you have to be determined, too, or you’ll never do it.

You can’t just do it on a whim.

You have to be focused.”

Andy did his own shop fitting and worked seven days a week. He believes that anyone starting a new business must be prepared to not make a profit for the first few months, and adds, “You’ve got to love what you do.”

Much of the stock for the shop came from his personal collection at home, and the money was raised from savings, friends and a bank loan. He looked for

TECHNOLOGICAL RETAIL - ANDY ROBERTS, PROPRIETOR OF SUMMIT GAMES

the right location, and then bartered for a good price and reasonable lease. “With technology, you never know about the future.

When I took the lease I took that into account and got one for five years (rather than ten or fifteen).

In fifteen years time we could be playing games in zero gravity!”

He initially decided on Bangor, and says he encourages the healthy competition from Acme games. He warns that you must be prepared to face fierce competition, especially from larger stores who can buy in bulk to offer lower prices. “Big stores have buying power. But on some things you can compete.”

Andy believes that the benefits of owning a business are that you get to do what you love for a living. “I love games and talking to the customers. I am lucky to be in position where I

can give someone a job, but the downside is the paperwork that goes with that.” However, there are down sides, such as red tape, tax, rules and regulations and stress. “It could be years before

“You have to have life experience, you have to be determined, too, or you’ll never do it. You can’t just do it on a whim. “ you see a real profit. You can only take the money you need. With it happening for me quicker, I had to register for VAT sooner, which is a lot of headache.”

Andy advises any people

starting their own business to be wary. He recalls one instance of shoplifters moving stock to a shelf near the door so they could come in the next day to steal it without being noticed. Andy also warns against taking second hand items that are stolen or copied as it could land you in jail. However, with most customers you should bend over backwards to help people, whilst not forgetting to draw a fine line.

His advice to anyone looking to set up a business is to avoid spending money too early, and to be prepared to work seven days a week to get your business off the ground. Andy had lots of sleepless nights over his business, but now has started to reap the benefits.

Buying out his partner was expensive and stressful, but he maintains that it was worth-

while. “It’s more than I could have hoped for. It’s not just about the money, I’m not a materialistic person, but I enjoy what I’m doing. I can offer better service.”

His wife, Jill, even has a hand in the business now – as accountant! He says it is vital to have an accountant to handle your books as there is a lot of paperwork involved.

And the future? Andy is optimistic. He says he is delighted that more girls are playing computer games. It shows that the popularity of the industry has boomed, and that gaming is finally becoming a mainstream hobby, alongside films and music. “The industry is growing at a phenomenal rate. I am making improvements to my shop week by week.”

“THE BEST PART OF OWNING YOUR OWN BUSINESS IS LEANING ON THE COUNTER AND LOOKING DEBONAIR...”

GAMES

10 SEREN May 2002

Fancy a Flutter?

Gambling. An entertaining pastime that occasionally rakes in a tangible cash reward, but one that can seem like so much expense and effort. Welcome, then, with open arms, oh ye student masses, the arrival of www.free-bet.net, with its plethora of money-frittering opportunities.

Designed with students in mind, the site allows free bets to be placed on major sporting events – all from the comfort of your home or computer lab!

So if you’ve got a spare wad burning a hole in your wallet, why not see what’s available? Sure beats buying food or paying rent.

games@seren.bangor.ac.ukgam

MY NAME IS...

HUMONGOUS BASS?

THE STONES WERE FALLING BEHIND THE TIMES

MAD! Hats off to the insane!

5: Leather Goddesses Of Phobos (1986) THERE WAS once a time when games did not rely on spanky graphics and ear-shafting sound effects to give gamers their jollies.

Some games were based solely on words – ‘text’, if you will – and they led the player on a wondrous quest – or ‘adventure’ – through strange lands, using their imagination to fill in the blanks. They were cunningly named ‘text adventures’, and they were often utterly hatstand.

Leather Goddesses was one such game, but it had a twist – it could be played in a variety of levels of ‘explicitness’. The option was there for the player to enjoy textual intercourse with certain other characters in scenes that read like a collaboration between Mills & Boon and the Farrelly brothers. Bonkers, in every sense

of the word. The game also came with a scratch ‘n’ sniff card to lend a multi-sensory edge to the

proceedings. The smells? Use your imagination...

AT BIRTH we are labelled. For most of us, this label sticks with us until the day die. Our names define us.

But what if we are not satisfied with the names thrust upon us? What course of action is open to us? Well, I’m buggered if I know, but it is possible to have a great deal of time-wasting fun on the Internet with little more than your own humble moniker.

So, if you find yourself with a bit of time to spare between the end of an exam and the opening of the pubs, why not shove your name through these themed Name Generators?

Metal Gear Solid Name – www.buzzsite.com/goodies/ MGSnamegen/ In honour of the foolish creature-based codenames that run rife through Hideo Kojima’s classic stealth-em-up. Snaaaaaaaake!

for anyone who enjoys prowling around in the dark, twiddling their nunchucks.

Michael McGeachin = Tachikawa Tono-san WuName – www.recordstore.com/cgi-bin/ wuname/wuname.pl How ‘bout joining the rap equivalent of the Brady Bunch, the WuTang Clan? Huh? How ‘bout it?

Michael McGeachin = Greasy Choirboy Oz Prison Bitch – members.iglou.com/lyons/bitchGen. html One for fans of the brutal chokeybased drama. Don’t expect to be flattered by the result.

Michael McGeachin = Humongous Bass Pokéname – pizza.sandwich.net/poke/ pokemon.html For those of you who wish you had a name as butch as Jigglypuff.

Also comes with a brief biog for your non-official pocket creature.

Michael McGeachin = Pikarider

Ninja Name – www.ninjaburger.com/ fun/ninjaname An authentic-sounding pseudonym

NINJAS:NAMED AND SHAMED

SUMMIT GAMES

8 WELLFIELD ARCADE, BANGOR, LL57 1EY

PSONE, PLAYSTATION2, DREAMCAST, PC CD-ROM, DVD, XBOX AND GAMECUBE GAMES BOUGHT, SOLD AND TRADED IN.

PHONE: 01248 360095 www.summit-games.co.uk

games@seren.bangor.ac.uk

GAMES

SEREN May 2002 11

SLAVES TO THE RHYTHM Mike McGeachin looks at the latest gaming craze

MUSIC IS great. Everybody knows that. Whether it’s pop, rock, jazz, classical or any number of other genres and subgenres, there’s a little something for everyone.

It seems obvious, then, that someone would try to incorporate music into a game – something in which the tunes would play a stronger role than simply tootling along behind the action. And so it came to be that games such as PaRappa The Rapper and Bust A Groove were thrust console-wards, and all was good.

Recently, however, there has been a sudden explosion of interest in song-centric gaming.

Since the last issue, Seren has received three new games in which music features heavily, and there are many more on the horizon. So what is available for the beat-crazy gamer, and what can we expect in the future?

Firstly, let’s look at now.

As was to be expected, the PS2 has seen some long awaited sequels and ports from other consoles, and, nestled among these titles are PaRappa The Rapper 2 and the Dreamcast hit Space Channel 5. Both of these games are part of a genre that is referred to by games journos as ‘Bemani style’. This essentially means that the action revolves around call and response – the player copies the actions of a computer-controlled character, and so makes progress through the game. Other than this, however, the games couldn’t be more dif ferent.

PaRappa 2, as you may have guessed, constitutes the continuing adventures of the two-dimensional canine MC. His job now is to save the world from a hostile noodle takeover (what?) by engaging in rapping

GITAROO MAN: JUST AS ODD AS IT LOOKS

face-offs (what?) with a number of characters.

Anyone familiar with the first game will know what to expect. The graphics are a tad more crisp and colourful, but still essentially the same as ever. The songs are reassuringly daft, and a certain amount of scope is given for improvisation.

The genius inclusion of a two-player mode (against the computer or a friend) lends a whole new angle, and extends the lifespan of the game no end.

But what of SC5? This little nugget is rather more graphically realistic, but still quite stylised, and it centres on roving reporter Ulala and her quest to find out why an invading troop of aliens, the Morolians, is forcing people to dance (whaaat?).

Decked out in tight orange PVC outfits of varying lengths (from short to indecent), she whups ass by means of dance-offs and shoot-outs. In the latter, Ulala must shoot Morolians with one gun, and free hypnotised prisoners with the other. Tricky.

The music is fun and funky, and the voice acting reassuringly hammy, making the game a fun little package. It is rather easy, though, and there isn’t much scope for repeated play.

And that’s the Bemani twosome for you. But there’s a third title which defies description and belief. This game, which is essentially a scrolling shoot-em-up, has had gaming magazines in a whirl for the past

BRITNEY DANCE BEAT: SNAKE OPTIONAL couple of months. The game is Rez, and you simply must own it.

The aim of the game is not to destroy all of the baddies and complete the levels – that’s just a surface distraction, much like the sketchy plot. Your goal is a state of synaesthesia, which essentially means that your senses become so confused that you begin to taste colours, see sounds and so on.

The game strives to achieve this by involving the player in the creation of the ingame music. As you destroy things and make progress through the levels, the tune

becomes more complex, and the beat, which is channelled through the Dual Shock controller, slams more heavily. Sumptuous light shows accompany the explosions, and the overall effect is messy, but strangely coherent. Perhaps synaesthesia is just beyond the game’s reach, but this reviewer had a merry old time becoming utterly immersed in the experience.

And that’s the state of things today. But there’s still more to come. Space Channel 5 Part 2, Mad Maestro! and Britney’s Dance Beat (featuring the Spears-ster herself) are just

BEMANI FACE OFF: PARAPPA VERSUS ULALA Place your bets now!

ROUND ONE: The Look Granted, PaRappa looks the part in his baggy clobber and beanie hat, but ultimate sartorial kudos must go to Ulala’s figure-hugging ensembles, thighmounted lasers and candy pink hair.

WINNER: Ulala Fight! Fight! Fight! We know who has the better game, but which of these dynamic funk-masters would cut the rug – and the mustard – in a one-on-one dance to the death?

ROUND TWO: The Tunes Again, whilst PaRappa kicks out some catchy rhythms, Ulala’s taste for booty-shakin’ funk-o-matic groove-fests

comes out on top. A narrow miss for the Dogfather.

WINNER: Ulala ROUND THREE: The Words A blanket victory for PaRappa.

His gift for waffling an endless stream of bollocks without a slip vastly outshines Ulala, whose most amusing mid-dance quote is ‘Shoot Up’. Snigger.

WINNER: PaRappa ROUND FOUR: The Moves Watching Ulala bump, grind, kick and shimmy is oddly satisfying,

but PaRappa can serve burgers, cut hair and pull off some mean BMX stunts without breaking his flow. Respec’.

WINNER: PaRappa FINAL ROUND: The Sidekicks PaRappa wins the initial quantity vote, but Ulala’s troupe of groovemeisters have the quality. Furthermore, Ulala’s knack of boosting her numbers Pied Piper-style swings victory her way. Besides, PaRappa’s buddies seem a little two-dimensional. Arf! WINNER: Ulala

MUSIC

12 SEREN May 2002 BANGOR’S LIVE music continues unabated. On the thirteenth, Main Bar witnessed a storming gig from the Moonies and Easyworld. Big shout out to both bands and a special one to Jo, the bassist from Easyworld, whose smouldering yet glacial beauty made the gig all the more special. At least for the redblooded males in the audience.

Yeah, she knows she’s hot but, hey, those of you who missed it didn’t. You do now.

Coming soon, we have only got the one and only Robert fucking Plant! Led Zepplin ROOLS! Eyes peeled also for Hundred Reasons, kindly playing this summer’s Trash Ball with support from Cave In and the alwaysappreciated Fubar. Then the week after there’s Wheatus – you must have seen the posters by now. Then for graduation week – yeah, most of you won’t be here but that’s your loss

Alternative Eighties Various Artists Sony TV

MUSIC REVIEWS

Until recently the music of the 80’s was some of the most maligned of the 20th century. It now however finds itself more popular, and credible, than it ever was back in the day. While dance music has been pilfering the decade’s sparse electronic arrangements for a couple of years now, the guitar based underground has been largely ignored.

So “Alternative Eighties” is a timely reminder that it wasn’t all eyeliner or poodle perms in the decade that cool forgot. Like most compilations of this type, there is a mix of the usual suspects (Echo and The Bunnymen, The Cure, The Clash) mixed with some surprises (Cocteau Twins, The Associates). The ace/shite division is only just on the right side of the mark, but this is only to be expected on a record as packed with tunes as this.

What does grate though, is that the compilers have missed an opportunity to tell the full story of the decade’s underground. Where are Joy Division, The Birthday Party, The Pop Group, Spaceman 3, Gang of Four, A Certain Ratio and The Smiths? These groups, and others too numerous to mention, were much more important in terms of influence and innovation than, say, Dream Academy.

So, a strange preference for filler over the genuine alternative acts of the decade makes this a strangely bland record at times. What could have been a document of a sometimes forgotten era for alternative music is instead only half the story.

Some good songs, but ultimately disappointing.  Dan Hartley

music@seren.bangor.ac.uk

– we’ve got The Bluetones.

Something of a coup for our tireless Ents guys as the ‘Tones are only playing about five gigs this summer.

Next year, in the autumn, you’ve got the Levellers and JJ72 heading Bangor’s way – or so I’m told. Rockin’.

Keep supporting the live music – you know it makes sense.

The Bellrays Meet The Bellrays Poptones

Alan McGee’s Poptones label continues to go from strength to strength. Following the success Doves Kid Galahad Lauryn Hill of The Hives, prepare to have The Last Broadcast Gold Dust Noise MTV Unplugged No. 2.0 The Bellrays thrust upon you. And EMI Ignition Columbia they will be thrust upon you whether you like it or not - cos The long-awaited second album Though tempting to write Kid Gala- MTV strikes again. The newest instal- there will be no denying their from Manchester’s Doves. And had off as just another indie band ment in the Unplugged series showmusic. Basic guitar, bass and it’s a real pleasure to report that it would do little justice to their cases two CDs worth of Lauryn Hill. drums, playing in that old school it doesn’t disappoint. All of the worth. Certainly all the key influAnd her new tunes are good. Touchrock - you can feel the legacy of familiar components from their ences seem to be in place - eleing lyrics with a social conscience and bands like Led Zepplin in every first fare Lost Souls, are back ments of early Blur, a hint of The her voice is able to deliver the goods, note. But there’s so much more in place - the jangly guitars, the Verve and the boundless enthusi- even if she’s starting to sound a little than an Almost Famous-era rock volume swells, the dance influasm of just about every Britpop haggard. In fact, the bare, strippedband courtesy of the enviable talenced drumbeats, the lazy vocals band that ever was - but there’s down performance - just Ms Hill and ents of the fabulous Lisa Kekaula - yet the whole is by far greater something inherently warm and a lone guitarist - makes this album who wails like Tina Turner and than the some of its parts. Some- likeable about their music. Tracks sound, at it’s best, intimate and perAretha Franklin put together, how Doves are able to weave like ‘Where’s My Gold?’ and ‘Stea- sonal, like the demo for an album while the boys bring the rock all these things into an album lin’ Beats’ bounce along with a to rival Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going back. That’s it. That’s the gimthat soars. From the epic single chirpy exuberance impossible to On? Indeed, it sometimes makes you mick. But it’s one hell of a gim‘There Goes The Fear’ with its deny. The stomp-a-long ‘Pack It wonder if she’s completely left behind mick and they have the tunes to infectious drumming and evenIn’ and the Teachers soundtrack her hip-hop roots till you get to tunes carry it off. From the single ‘Fire tual descent into a Latin Mardi gracing ‘Distant Sunshine’ deserve like ‘Mystery Of Iniquity’ where she On The Moon’ to ‘They Glued Your Gras, to the delicate fingerpickto become indie classics. Even at once again shows that she can rap Head On Upside Down’, The Belling of ‘M62 Song’ and the loud their most melancholy, for example with the best of them. rays pack every single track with guitars of ‘N.Y.’, this is an album the piano-driven ballad ‘Salvation’, Which is why it’s such a shame that so much raw energy you’d be that speaks of hope in an almost Kid Galahad manage to feel warm she’s used the Unplugged forum as forgiven for thinking this was a tangible way. ‘Pounding’ does and uplifting. And they don’t even public therapy. In-between tunes she live bootleg from back in the exactly what it claims, yet avoids feel the need to unleash an entire shares herself with the audience in day when metal was still a fresh being oppressive in any way; in orchestra to get that epic glow, that a frankly unwelcome way. She has dream. Furious riffing, mad drumfact, it’s quite a freeing tune. has to count for something, doesn’t worked through her issues and is ming and a black girl with the Yet when not singing about such it? determined that she share her revsexiest, huskiest voice, shrieking things, Doves make music that A comforting likeable band, then. elations with the world. What wisdom into the microphone about godyou can wrap around you like a And yet, though they deserve good has she to depart? Unfortunately knows-what and it’s all great. If warm blanket. The Last Broadthings they need a hook, a gimmick nothing that a thousand others have you don’t like rock don’t buy this. cast is not an album done by perhaps, something that will mark hit upon before yet you have to wade If you wish you could’ve been half, Doves subscribe to the them out from the rest of the crowd through seven interludes and more. around during music’s heyday, axiom ‘why make a three minute if they ever hope to achieve the Should MTV have taken it upon then what are you waiting for? pop song when you can make superstardom heaped upon their themselves to edit out the soliloa six minute psychedelic epic’. predecessors. Maybe a new logo quies, this would make for good lis Don’t let the morose voice of Jimi cos frankly, the one they’ve got at tening; instead it becomes an arduGoodwin fool you, this is a joyous the moment is just crap. ous chore. One can only hope that album and one that will move Lauryn intends to take these tunes to you with each listen. Buy it. Now.  the studio and make a proper album.

Enrich your lives.  

WHAT SEREN HAS BEEN LISTENING TO OF LATE

For our fantastic “About a Boy soundtrack competition, see the Film Section.

FILMS

films@seren.bangor.ac.uk

FAR OUT EAST

MIKE MCGEACHIN LOOKS AT THE PHENOMENON OF JAPANESE FILM THRILLERS CAN be a tricky genre to excel in. The uneasy balance of tension and action with an eye on keeping the audience hanging on the edge of their seats, but not holding back too much on the excitement.

The consideration of pace. The ugly prospect of cliché.

It is always a pleasant surprise to find a director that gets it right. But what about a nation with the notion? Strange as it may seem, one country has produced with enough near-perfect thrillers to keep the rest of the world hidden behind the couch for years. The country? Japan.

Japan’s launch into the thriller limelight could arguably be said to have begun with Hideo Nakata’s Ring. This film followed Asakawa, an intrepid female journalist, as she began investigating a supposedly cursed videotape. The tape, it was alleged, caused people to die mysteriously exactly one week after watching. Mysteriously and, judging by the faces of the corpses, horribly.

The film was directed with admirable restraint, never giving in to cheap shock tactics and goredrenched visuals. The acting was also of a high, but muted, standard, creating an unnervingly atmospheric and atmospherically unnerving experience.

Its strength was its difference. Not simply the difference in language, but the utterly alien feel of the whole film. This tangible oddness was carried through into a sequel, Ring 2, and, most recently, a prequel, Ring 0: The Birthday. Even a change of director (Norio Tsuruta took the helm for 0) didn’t harm the sheer skin-crawling terror provoked by the series.

Naturally, all would be well if this were a one-off. But no. Further fear of a whole different shape could be found in the form of Takashi Miike’s Audition.

The film’s premise was simple enough: an aging widower is egged on by his son to find a new wife, and so enlists the aid of a filmmaking companion to set up a pretend film audition in order to view a series of nubile young women. He finds what he wants in the form of Asami, an angel-faced, virginal, waiflike beauty, who he proceeds to court in the manner of a perfect gentleman.

Naturally, all goes hellishly wrong, and the viewer is eventually

SEREN May 2002 13

ABOUT A BOY COMP - WIN SOUNDTRACK

Win a signed copy of the new Badly Drawn Boy album/soundtrack to the film “About a Boy” – along with your chance to win a Badly Drawn Boy platinum disk.

The 8th of April 2002 saw the release of Badly Drawn Boy’s original soundtrack to the film adaptation of Nick Hornby’s best selling novel, ‘About A Boy’ The album was recorded in Los Angeles with producer and Bong Load Records founder Tom Rothrock (Beck, Elliot Smith, etc) and is his first major release since the million selling, Mercury Music Prize winning ‘Hour Of Bewilderbeast’ Badly Drawn Boy became involved with the film at the request of Nick Hornby. “I wanted to get on with my own record. But I met them (the film’s creators), read the book and started to get a good feeling” explains Gough. The soundtrack was written in its entirety by Badly Drawn Boy - including eight new compositions and all the incidental music The first offering from the new album was ‘Donna And Blitzen’ a limited edition 7” Xmas single released late last year, which sold out on the day of its release. Also included on the record are the forthcoming single releases, ‘Something To Talk About’ and ‘Silent Sigh’ The film, ‘About A Boy’ starring Hugh Grant, Toni Collete and Rachel Weisz and directed by Chris and Paul Weitz (American Pie) was released on 26th April.

treated to the most harrowing few minutes of film since Mr. Blonde first picked up a razor.

That said, neither violence nor gore feels unnecessary or overstated. Rather the film builds to a bloody climax, gripping its audience in a brutal chokehold.

And still the canon does not finish. Not content with bringing us supernatural and psychological thrillers to rival the greats, our Eastern cousins have produced what has been touted by some as A Clockwork Orange for the 21st century.

The film in question is Kenta Fukasaku’s Battle Royale.

The plot concerns the decline in behaviour of Japanese schoolkids, and some seriously hardline measures to tackle it.

The children are chosen at random to be sent to a deserted island, whereupon they are issued with weapons

of all shapes and sizes, and instructed to kill each other until only one remains. Failure to comply results in instant demise via a Running Man-style collar of death.

The resulting film is a sublime mixture of social commentary and extreme violence − a kind of Lord of the Flies with guns − which is enjoyable on many levels. As with Audition, underlying themes of the growing gap between the old and the young in Japan, which becomes apparent with later watches.

With all these wonderful films on offer, and doubtless many more to come, is there any reason why you should resort to renting the same old tired, trite tripe spat out by jaded Hollywood movie execs?

Try something different. You just might like it.

In association with the release of the About A Boy album HMV are giving Seren readers the chance to win a signed copy of the CD and enter a national competition to win one of 3 Badly Drawn Boy Platinum Disks. To be in with a chance of winning just answer this simple question. Who plays the lead in the film About A Boy? Is it: (a) (b) (c)

Hugh Scully Hugh Lemon Hugh Grant

To enter simply e-mail the answer to hmv@nus-ents.co.uk Please title the e-mail About A Boy Competition and include your name, age, address, university, year of study, telephone/mobile number and e-mail address.

BOUGHT TO YOU IN ASSOCIATION WITH HMV - TOP DOG FOR MUSIC, VIDEO, GAMES. DON’T FORGET YOU CAN GET 10% OFF BADLY DRAWN BOY “ABOUT A BOY” SOUNDTRACK WITH YOUR HMV STUDENT CARD.

CULTURE

14 SEREN May 2002

A NOVEL FANTASY BOOK REVIEW BY JULIE NIELD

tures of this world, and the Rigante are based on ancient the Celtic lifestyle. Gemmel’s characters are wonderfully in depth and realistic, and his style of writing pulls you into the action and leaves you wanting more. Ravenheart is the better novel, but it is left quite open at the end, leaving you wanting to know more.

Hence the second novel, Stormrider.

Stormrider, however, is not quite as good, with some of the better characters missing, for reasons you’ll have to find out yourself.

David Gemmel The pace is kept up, right until the last couple of pages too, leav“RavenHeart” (paper back ing you guessing how he’s going to wind everything up in such a £6.99) and “StormRider” short space. Then, suddenly, everything is over. It felt a little bit (hard Back £16.99) like he got to his word count and felt that he had to just end it I HAD never heard of or read David there.

Gemmel, and so was surprised to But, Gemmel is definitely worth discover that I had been missing a look. An excellent writer of offout for all these years. Receiving world fantasy, the best I’ve read both the new paper back and the in years. new hard back novel, and in the absence of anything else to read  one night, I started Ravenheart and it was great! An off-world fantasy that concentrates on characters rather than making up stupid names for things, is well written with beautiful descriptions and good dialogue is something that is hard to come across. Unfortunately for me though, when I try to tell people how great they are, they all seem to already know about his work. Why didn’t anyone tell me before?

Both Ravenheart and Stormrider concentrate on a race of peoples, called the Rigante. Like all off-world novels, there are parallels to cul-

culture@seren.bangor.ac.uk

GO AWAY AND READ THIS BOOK!

MONEY MONEY MONEY

How to Settle Debts with Creditors: A bankruptcy Association Guide John McQueen Paper back, £9.95 Not exactly a great read, and not going to win the Whitbread prize for literature, but it could be useful, if you need to know that kind of thing. Handling you money is one of the most important things that you need to be able to do, and if you do it badly, then you can end up in trouble. Quite a lot of trouble.

If you are vaguely sensible with your money then this book will not tell you much that you don’t

already know through common sense. But, when it comes to the more complicated stuff, like if you need someone to guide you through IVAs and bankruptcy then this is probably a good thing. However, if you do find your self in trouble, then this might be able to help you out.

This no nonsense, no jargon guide, it will tell you what to avoid, and the best ways to sort out your finances and settle debts with creditors. It doesn’t deal with student loans or anything like that, but if you ever need advice about finances in the big wide world, then this might be useful. Check out www.theba.org.uk for more details.

No Shitting in the Toilet: The travel guide for when you’ve really lost it.

Peter Moore Taking its title from a sign on a toilet door in a dodgy café in remote China, this is not a normal travel guide. For a start, this is a readable travel book.

Not only readable, but humorous, informative and enjoyable too. Written in a very relaxed and truthful way, and set out in simple to read, easy to flick to sections, it covers all eventuali-

ties and situations, from why and where to travel, eating and drinking, modes of transport, souvenirs and relationships.

Each chapter has several subheaded sections for ease of reading, meaning that you don’t have to plough your way though large blocks of text to get to the bit that you are interested in. And its all written from a very friendly and funny point of view - telling you honestly what has happened to him, however ridiculous or unusual or pointless, which makes it good to read. At the end of each chapter there is a list of ten things about the previous topic, but with a bit of a twist, for exam-

ple, “Top 10 most useless things to pack” or “ Top 10 shitholes.”

Even though I hate all travel guides, and think that they are the most boring and useless thing to own, I actually really like this book. Well written, obviously researched and with a dry sense of humour, NSITT is the travel guide to buy, even if you aren’t planning to travel at the moment, it’s a great book to just dip into ever now and again. Funny, informative, and not taking its self seriously - now that is how travel guides should be. 

serensays@hotmail.com

seren

says

There has been much controversy over immigration in the

national press, with many tabloids calling out for the closure of the channel tunnel. This is a knee jerk reaction that will not solve the problem, and will only make it someone else’s issue to deal with.

The only way to solve the problem of immigrants is to get to the root of it. We must work on a national scale to give everyone equal rights and opportunities. Of course, this is a massive undertaking and some may consider it unrealistic, but surely it is better than pushing immigrants from pillar to post without resolving the underlying problem.

The Queen’s Jubilee has drawn a lot of comment, especially following the death of the Queen Mother. Seren feels sure that the students do not deserve the anti-royalist reputation they have been lumbered with. We may not actively support the royal family, but we are not all active protestors against it. The truth is that most students probably just don’t care. The Royals are a national tradition, and often seen as a burden on taxpayers. Students are not taxpayers, and not really interested. Most of us see the Royal Family as a tourist attraction and source of tabloid gossip, nothing more. It is just like the student apathy towards the government – give us something to vote for and we will, but until we are shown that any party will make a drastic change for the better, it is hard to care. The death of the Queen Mother was a sad event, as it is when anyone passes away, but it does not mark a great national change. Life will go on for every citizen as usual. It is only to be expected that the Queen does not wish to publicise the contents of the will – this is, and should be, strictly a family affair.

On a lighter note, the Summer Ball draws closer. Let’s hope everyone enjoys themselves, and that all the third year students can use the ball to bid fond farewell to the university. Ents have done a great job organising the ball this year and Seren is sure that all the students will appreciate it – as long as they aren’t too drunk to notice, that is.

Next year, Dave Bennett will have the thankless task of editing Seren. I wish him all the best and I feel sure that he will have the continued support of the Students’ Union and the students themselves.

Have a great summer, everyone!

EDITORIAL

SO WHAT HAS THE UNION DONE FOR YOU? James Brownsell speaks out on behalf of the Students’ Union.

THE STUDENTS’ UNION. It’s all a bunch of arse isn’t it? Half a dozen muppets get elected by a handful of students conned into voting for the prettiest candidates, jumping onto the gravy train to fraudsville and corruptionland.

Or are the sabbaticals a collection of students, just like you, who care enough about student issues and who have enough commitment to the cause to give up a year of their normal life to get paid a pittance and work ridiculously long hours in order to help the good students of Bangor, and never get thanked for their work?

This year, your elected representatives have worked vigorously for the students of Bangor. Highlights of the year have included the opportunity to work with the University on the issue of the Halls of Residence. Through having Union representation, we have stopped the halls from being privatised – without using hyperbole, a move that has secured the homes of 2,500 students for the next 30 years. Another highlight came when Neuadd John Morris Jones has its status as a Welshspeaking hall called into question.

Through consultation with students and staff, we saved JMJ from being abolished.

The Students’ Union exists to provide support, to campaign on issues relevant to students and to ensure student representation within the University, in Cardiff Bay and at Westminster. A lot of the work of the President is based on a national scale, in order to succeed for students on a local level. I did not truly believe last August that the work of Bangor Students’ Union, with the Welsh Presidents Forum and UCMC/NUS Wales would see the reintroduction of grants to Welsh students, but it has. Our Students’ Union is winning.

SEREN STAFF

SEREN,

CONTACT NUMBERS

STUDENTS’ UNION,

Tel: 01248 388017

DEINIOL ROAD,

Fax: 01248 388020

BANGOR

Mob: 07714750400

LL57 2TH

SEREN May 2002 15

Editor in Chief Production Distrib.

News Community SU Culture Music Games Administration Lifestyle

Our Students’ Union is winning for students, and that is something of which I am justifiably proud.

The reintroduction of grants has been a step in the right direction toward a fair system of student funding. Looking to the future, I honestly believe that the abolition of the demon tuition fees is now within our grasp. We must continue to put pressure on

“Looking to the future, I honestly believe that the abolition of the demon tuition fees is now within our grasp.” the key decision-makers to see a reasonable funding system instead for our students.

The Welsh language movement has been passionately campaigning this year, more than ever before. It is a credit to those activists that we have seen a commitment from the National Assembly to double the number of lecturers teaching through the medium of Welsh.

The right to receive an education in your native language when in your native country is an intrinsic one, and we will continue to put our weight behind

L.L. Kidney Mike McGeachin Frankie O Dowd Chris Chapman Catherine Walker Karl Sadil Bob Connerton Julie Neild Ian Fallon Mike McGeachin Kirsty Harrison Daniella Mangano

Advertising

this campaign.

The Advice and Representation Centre has seen an average of 100 students every week, dealing with matters personal, legal, financial and bestial. The crucial work that the centre does and the importance of the service that it offers must not be underestimated, and we are thankful that we are able to offer this provision.

The students of Bangor are what make Bangor Students’ Union great. The Union, however, would simply grind to a halt if it were not for the tireless efforts of the staff and the Executive, and I wish to convey my deepest thanks to all who have given of their time and energy to help the Students’ Union this year, and those who have given selflessly over numerous years. I leave this position humbled by the sheer dedication and enthusiasm of those around me, people that I am proud to call friends.

The future is bright indeed for Bangor Students’ Union. There is much work still to be done in key campaigning areas. The challenge for my successor will be to continue to fight in the areas of student housing, welfare support, student funding, provision for cultural, social and athletic development and communication with the membership. I know he will be relishing the opportunity. I hope most sincerely that he is offered the support and help that I have been so privileged and honoured to receive.

Mewn undeb mae nerth – In a Union, there is strength.

To advertise in Seren, call 07074 692773 or email us at ads@seren.bangor.ac.uk.

Seren is distributed free to every Students’ Union site, every hall of residence and many other locations around Bangor. We offer competitive rates to business and discounts for Union clubs/societies.

Next Issue

There will be no more official issues of seren this term. We plan a souvenir issue to coincide with the ball, but this is yet to be confirmed. The next issue will be the Freshers’ Issue in September. Anyone wishing to write for Seren next year is advised to contact serensays@hotmail.com.

LIFESTYLE

16 SEREN May 2002

lifestyle@seren.bangor.ac.uk

HOW TO BEAT THE EXAM BLUES

EXAMS ARE a stressful time for everyone – especially if you have essays and a dissertation to worry about. But here’s how you can beat those end of term blues, by following the simple six-step Seren guide.

or which one you need to work on most. Don’t panic, and be rational about how much you need to know.

of you so you will avoid making you feel you need, and don’t be do in the time, and try to think out mistakes in the exam, such as put off by your friends spending your answer before you commit answering the wrong questions or all day every day in the library. it to paper. Finally, when you not reading the instructions prop- It doesn’t mean that’s what you leave, don’t be put off if everyone erly. Try taking some of the past have to do. It’s better to find seemed to do better than you, Step Three: exam papers in the recommended your own space to revise – some- or are more confident. Only the Make efficient notes. Read time, as this will give you an idea where where you are comforta- examiner knows how everybody through your lecture notes and of how much you are capable of ble and relaxed, and has a good did, and the results are a long way Step One: decide how much is relevant. writing in the time period, as well source of light. off. Put it from your mind, and Don’t plan marathon revision ses- Also have an idea of which topics as being a good indication of your enjoy yourself. sions. It has been statistically you want to look at in depth and personal progress.

Step Six: proven that we concentrate best study those thoroughly – don’t Relax a little. It’s difficult to and learn more in short periods, just blindly try to take it all in unwind when you have so much punctuated with lots of breaks. So in one go. You’ll only end up to do, but it will do you good promise yourself that you will do remembering half of it and it to promise yourself at least one one hour’s work, then have a ten orwon’t be much use. Be mernight off a week, and give yourfifteen minute break. Try to avoid ciless and make brief but conself rewards for meeting goals. high caffeine drinks, because they cise notes that will prompt you to For example, say to yourself, “If will make you edgy. Have a glass remember more. Don’t use your I complete this exam paper in of juice instead – it’s healthier and notes as the only way to rememtime, I will have a chocolate much more refreshing. ber the facts, but use them as bar.” It’s not much, but it gives a memory jog. Learning parrot- Step Five: you small goals and rewards.

Step Two: fashion may help some people, Don’t bother about what other Breaking the work up into small Take one thing at a time. You have but it is better to try and learn people are doing. Everyone has chunks will make it seem more their own favourite areas of study, manageable. Before your exam, to prioritise. If you have two exams everything for yourself so you and just because you are taking be sure to get an early night, prein a week, by all means revise for can be more flexible. the same paper as someone, it both but try to keep them as sepapare everything you’ll need for doesn’t mean you will be able rate as possible. Try revising for Step Four: the next day and try to avoid last one on one day, and the next day Look at past exam papers if pos- to answer the same questions as minute cramming. Take a deep concentrate on the other. This way sible. You will probably find that easily. Choose the areas that breath, and keep thinking posiyou won’t be switching between themany subjects come up often, so interest you the most and find a tively. In the exam, be organised study timetable that suits you. Put and as calm as possible. Be you can focus on those. Also two and getting confused. Also, in as much or as little work as decide which is worth more marks, you’ll know what is expected realistic about how much you can

mystic kitty predicts the future...

AQUARIUS Feb 18

PISCES 20

Jan 20 – A wise man said that the sky is always darkest before the dawn.

He was right.

Dawn’s on the way now, so greet it with a smile.

And put some clothes on.

Feb 19 – Mar

LEO – Aug 22

TAURUS 20

GEMINI 21

Why the long face?

Times may be difficult right now, but it won’t last forever. Stand tall, walk confidently, and soon your troubles will get tired of following.

ARIES April 19

March 21 – Working hard is all well and good, but have you thought about yourself recently? Slip on your gladrags and get out of the damn house – you’ll feel better for it.

CANCER 22 – July 22

April 20 – May Things are a bit confused at the moment, so take a moment to sit back and think about what you’re doing. Everything will slot itself into place like some mad jigsaw.

May 21 – June Worry worry worry. Is it all worth it? Keep your head down and get everything out of the way, and all will be well. It’s your birthday soon, anyway. Yay! J u n e If straws were meant to be clutched at, they’d have handles.

Consider your options, and the right path will become clear.

Just settle down and think rationally.

VIRGO 22

LIBRA 23

July 23 You’ve got your sights set on something, but it’s a long way away right now.

Don’t worry about that – you’re just looking through the wrong end of your binoculars.

Aug 23 – Sep The weight of the world seems to be resting on your shoulders.

Why not try propping it up against your bed and sneaking off for a few jars? It won’t notice.

Sep 23 – Oct My mother always told me never to trust a Piscean with glasses.

She also liked rice pudding. Shows what she knows.

Why not give them a go and see what happens?

SCORPIO – Nov 21

Oct 24 You’re feeling proud of yourself right now, and with good reason.

Don’t forget that there are still things to be done – but that doesn’t mean there isn’t time to party!

SAGITTARIUS Nov 22 – Dec 21 It seems that all you’ve been doing lately is complaining. Stop singing the blues and find yourself a new tune before all your friends get sick of it CAPRICORN 19

Dec 22 – Jan Things aren’t going to plan right now, are they? So find yourself a new plan! Remember, if life deals you a bum hand you don’t have to bet on it.

LOCAL AND COMMUNITY EVENTS

-26th May, South Stack, Anglesey: Marine Conservation Society sponsored walk for whales and dolphins.

-2nd June, Rhyl Pavilion Theatre, 7:30pm, Bjorn Again.

-2nd June, North Wales Theatre, Llandudno, at 8pm. Spirit of the Dance. Irish show, tickets £15.50 and £13.50.

-3rd June (Location to be revealed later if you join): Ma’m (Movement Against the Monarchy) protest at the Queen’s Jubilee.

-19th June, North Wales Theatre, Llandudno, at 7:30pm. Willie Nelson. £33.50.

-20th June: Botanical walk at Cwm Idwal. Meet at Treborth Botanic Gardens before 5:30 when the minibus leaves, or be at Cwm Idwal at 6pm when the walk starts.

-4th July: American Independence Day. -14th July: Treborth Botanic Garden, 2-5pm, Open Day and Plant Sale. £2.50 admission.

-July-August: Exhibition at Penrhyn Castle, including the work of Stuart, a local mature student at Bangor and photographer.

-August: Holyhead Maritime Museum, Diving Exhibition.