Issue 5 - February 2008

THEMAGDALEN DUNDEE UNIVERSITY STUDENT MAGAZINE

ISSUE 5 FREE

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n e e r

Sort Yourself Out Mate!

Following on from last years successful and somewhat notorious Give A SH!T election campaign, the D.U.S.A Student Executive have put together a sequence of events throughout the month of February to raise the average student’s awareness of the forthcoming elections. Election Day itself is not until Friday 21 March but below are key dates for your diary if the notion of running for D.U.S.A office takes your fancy. Feel free to use the opportunity to chat to your current Exec about any pressing concerns while you have the chance to grab them!

Election Information Drop-in Session

The drop-in sessions provide the opportunity to chat to your existing Executive about their role in D.U.S.A. Members of the Exec will be on hand to give you information and some handy hints about the day to day processes in place.

Location: Ninewells (Blue carpet area)

Location: D.U.S.A Air Bar

Date: Tuesday 19 February

Date: Monday 25 February

Time: 12:00-13:00

Time: 13:00-16:00

Election Information Stalls

Location: The Tower Reception Area and DUSA Time: 11:00-13:00 each day from Monday

Date: From Monday 25 February to Monday 10 March

Hustings

Hustings are an age-old tradition, whereby students are allowed to grill potential candidates running for the various posts available on the Executive. Can be amusing on occasion!

Location: D.U.S.A Mono Time: 17:00-19:00

Date: Wednesday 19 March

Election Day

This year, the battle for votes takes on a new dimension with the introduction of On-line voting methods. We may see various candidate campaigns making a bee-line for the IT buildings instead of the usual gathering outside The Union.

Location: Around University Campus Time: 09:00-18:00

Date: Friday 21st March

Election Night

The votes will be counted and the results announced throughout the night by the Senior Returning Officer in his official capacity. Campaign teams, candidates and the student body can all gather in Air Bar for the Election theme night; celebratory drinks will no doubt follow.

Location: D.U.S.A Air Bar Time: 19:00-11:00

Date: Friday 21st March

CONTENTS

ISSUE 05 info:

Principal Pay Rise.

Student Eco-Innovation Awards.

Student TV Success.

People and Planet Praised.

ED I TO R IAL Those of you who know where Larkhall is will also know that while growing up, green was not my preferred colour of choice. Times do change, and so now I find pleasure in presenting The Magdalen (Green) Edition! Inside, you can immerse yourself in a wealth of information addressing environmentally challenging problems. There are no simple answers to these debates, so dive in and get acquainted with the issues. My hint to any of you free-riders out there: If you can’t bring yourself to read the articles at least turn to the back pages and read a few of the Bright Ideas to save yourself some money if not the environment. Anyway, enough of my defeatist attitude!

You may have noticed that The Magdalen has gone from 24 pages to 36 pages since the last issue. Our Entertainment section has dramatically stretched in size to include interviews with Edith Bowman and Page 6. For the alert amongst you, our inbox: page has been dropped to make way for all our lovely features.

Never fear, it will return next month, hopefully with an update on the whereabouts of our everelusive Rector.

February is the month for the crooning lovers amongst us, but if you found yourself alone of Valentine’s Day, turn to page 6 (the pinkness will give it away) to read a few of my tips on the lessons of love. This leap year, we also have an extra day stuck on at the end of February. What will you do with yours? Fill us in with some of your antics at themagdalen@dusa.co.uk.

Finally, in my own self-interest, I will use this opportunity to invite those of you amongst us who have a keen eye for graphic design (we use InDesign on the Mac), photography or illustration. The Magdalen needs to develop its own sense of style. Interested? Email me at L.Bennie@dundee.ac.uk. Alternatively see VPC Dave MacLeod, Exec offices on Level 4 of the Union.

Next month, The Magdalen turns political once again in preparation for the D.U.S.A election campaign. LoveMusic will be packed full of new reviews and the latest cinema releases, while our Fashion team will update you on Project Betty. Enjoy the 29th, do something different with your day. I’m off to Glasgow to be part of a student studio audience for a new pilot show!

Details of which are in the News section of the new website: www.dusa.co.uk.

Lauren Bennie Editor

5 Features

Valentine Survival Tips.

Are Your Meals Costing the Earth?

Designing Your Environment.

Fashion...The real victim.

Nuclear Power, anyone?

How Will You Build For Your Future?

Mind, Bottle and Spirit.

6-7

Essentials

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SRC News Update.

Fashion: Spring Summer Collection.

Puzzle Page.

Bright Ideas!

Reviews

Films: No Country For Old Men/Juno.

Celebrity Interview: Edith Bowman.

Magdalen Meets: Page 6.

Snow Patrol at The Union.

Myspacez of the Month: Jocasta Sleeps.

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Contributors EDITOR Lauren Bennie.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Entertainment Reviews: Natalie Coupar, Gavin McNee, Eoin Boylan, Laurie Cameron.

Current Affairs and Features: James Patterson, Adam Patrick, Rachel Irwin, Richard Hawting, Dominic Hewlett, Barbara Anderson, Kimberly Ellis.

Fashion: Andi Michie, Laila Issa, Lizete Druka, Palak Bhatt, Kirsty Miller.

Photography: Gavin McNee, Laurie Cameron, Natalie Coupar.

Graphic Design: Kim Spiers, Ryan Strachan, Lauren Bennie, David MacLeod.

PUBLISHER: David MacLeod.

PUBLISHED BY Vice President of Communications D.U.S.A Airlie Place Dundee DD1 4HP vpc@dusa.co.uk

PRINTED BY David Winters & Sons 16 Dunsinane Ave Dunsinane Ind. Est. Dundee DD2 3QT sales@winterspioneers.co.uk

Recycle your copy of The Magdalen

info: > Current Affairs and News

Past-President Blane and Co bring home the bacon

Bruce Langlands and Steven Blane The Magdalen is pleased to bring you news of our outgoing president Steven Blane and his colleague in law, Bruce Langlands who stormed to victory at a recent Scottish Client Counselling Competition held in Aberdeen at Robert Gordon University.

Both students are currently focusing on their Diploma in Legal Practice at the University’s School of Law. Come April however, Bruce and Steven will head to Bangalore, India to represent Scotland in the international finals of this competition.

The client counselling competitions test prospective lawyers’ awareness and ability in the counselling and interviewing aspects of legal practice, which are key skills for all lawyers. Steven and Bruce, who were coached by lecturers David Brand and Lynne Mannion, had to conduct two separate interviews in which professional actors played the part of clients with a problem on the general theme of human rights.

Commenting on the team win, Steven said he was looking forward to the next battle and hoped the team could bring back another win for a Scottish team like that of Glasgow who triumphed in Florida in 2002.

Success at the Royal Television Society Student Awards Graduates from the University of Dundee’s School of Media Arts and Imaging were among the winners at the recent Royal Television Society Student Awards for Scotland event. Jen Randall, (24) from Fife, who recently graduated from the school’s Time Based Art programme, was the winner of the Undergraduate Drama award for her graduation film, `RAT’. Jen’s film will now be entered into the National RTS awards to be judged later this year. Andy Sim, (22) from Aberdeenshire, also from Time Based Art, was runner-up in the same category.

"This is the first time the School has entered for a RTS Drama award and the jury panel noted the unique, fresh approach to the work and the high standard that is the reputation of Duncan of Jordanstone," said Steve Flack, Head of the School of Media Arts and Imaging.

Further success was found in Alan Searle (22), from Fife, and Andrew Tulloch (24), from Glasgow, recent animation graduates, who were runners-up in the Undergraduate Animation category with their highly acclaimed film, `Unknown Element’.

The event’s Chair, Henry Eagles from Scottish Television, noted that Scotland has become a hub for animation with a reputation for producing excellent student graduates. All three films in the animation category were of exceptional standard, representing some of the best work in Scotland.

Graduates from the School of Media Arts and Imaging

Spot the odd one out: Staff Cuts, Unmarked Essays, Voluntary Severance, University Principal’s Pay Rise.

In the aftermath of the Scottish Government’s budget announcement last year, Universities were faced with hard decisions. To further add to this burden, The Herald recently published the pay rises our University Principals receive.

Cast your mind back to when module essays were abandoned unmarked, exams postponed and final year students ridden with fear as our lecturers went on strike in a bid to raise university staff wages. A mere 3.5% pay deal came their way. But more astonishing is the figures reported in The Herald that the Principals of Scotland’s Universities salaries have risen on average of 5.2%. Our very own University Principal Sir Alan Langlands accepted a pay increase of 2%. Hardly a fantastic morale boost for the team of workers below him who may well be included in the 100 staff cuts which the University has announced it may have to make to balance the books.

Ok, so Sir Alan is the University figurehead and some would also describe his role as one similar to a CEO. Whichever side Langlands work leans him to, surely he should set himself as an example and tighten his own belt before that of his staff who do not enjoy a pension package, accommodation or access to a budget to wine and dine notaries that of US Ambassador Tuttle who was heard proclaiming his enjoyment of cuisine cooked by a Michelin Star chef while at a dinner held by Langlands. Where was I? Oh yes, tightening the belt….

Dundee University is struggling under the acceptance of the Sustainability Review recommendations. The fate of the Botanic Gardens is still uncertain, language classes will be reduced, severance packages issued and redundancies will not be ruled out. Sir Alan Langlands’ pay rise does us no favours and certainly detracts from the plight of our University.

People and Planet hailed in Parliament

At the tail end of January, Patrick Harvie MSP held a debate in Parliament to discuss the work and achievements of student activist group People and Planet, which campaigns on the environment at Scotland’s universities and colleges.

Research shows that the UK’s universities are responsible for 3 million tonnes of CO2 emissions every year, and most Scottish institutions are at the lower end of the league tables in this area.

Following his debate in Holyrood, Patrick Harvie MSP said: “People and Planet are famous for their passionate campaigns on other global environmental problems. I held this debate to draw attention to their work closer to home: the award-winning Go Green campaign which is scrutinising and improving environmental practices at Scotland’s universities themselves.

Sadly, much the higher education sector in Scotland scores poorly on People and Planet’s environmental league table, and there’s much more work to be done.”

“Their most recent league table shows that Glasgow University and Strathclyde could certainly do better, and I urge them to aim for better results this year. I was disappointed to see that Caledonian did not even provide any information last time, as well, and they must be more open about their carbon footprint from now on. “ “University principals, like government Ministers, should be taking a lead, and some indeed are innovating already. People and Planet should be applauded for their hard work in this area, and when the sector gets its act together on this issue it will be largely down to the hard work of student activists across Scotland.”

New Generation Arts Festival 2008 Definitive Platform for the Digital Generation Already renowned as the vanguard of creative content, the New Generation Arts Festival (NGA) notoriously champions the independent cause of showcasing the brightest emerging graduate talent in the arts world today. Previously supported by a host of celebrities including model Erin O’Connor, social commentator Germaine Greer, comedian Frank Skinner, artist Anthony Gormley and author Philip Pullman, this year the New Generation Arts Festival, organised by Birmingham City University, celebrates youth, diversity and the rise of digital culture.

The topic of this year’s festival is Digital Utopia, where the exploration of the digital theme takes centre stage through a dynamic blend of celebrated talent and hotly tipped emerging artists on the verge of international success. Pushing the boundaries of innovation, 2008 will feature over 35 massive performances, exhibitions and special features including exhilarating collaborations with musician Julian Lloyd Webber, acclaimed digital artist Jane Prophet, applauded curator Mona Casey, and the extravagant up and coming VJ/DJ club collective Project X. The eminent Big Debate, with a panel of renowned guests, will explore whether the digital revolution equals connectivity or just lost content.

One of Europe’s largest showcases for graduate talent, the New Generation Arts Festival 2008, organised by Birmingham City University, kicks off on the 5th June and is jam-packed with over 16 days of digital art based euphoria. The festival aims to be the ultimate platform for showcasing new graduate talent alongside established names within the framework of the modern digital era - once again reinforcing Birmingham’s status as a centre of culture, creativity and digital innovation.

Opportunity to showcase talent with the launch of Student EcoInnovation Award

A brand new nationwide student award in environmentally friendly design has been launched by leading environmental student campaign organisation, People & Planet and social events organiser UK AWARE. This brand new, exciting award aims to highlight and support new talent in the field of Eco-Innovation. It works to develop students’ enthusiasm for greener living and to raise awareness of the importance of environmental issues on a national level.

The Eco-Innovation award raises ideas from the designers and engineers of the next generation, who will be responsible for creating and implementing sound environmental products for the future.

“To tackle the growing challenges and opportunities related to sustainable innovation- there is a need for substantial growth in grass-roots activity in the UK. The Eco-Innovation Award will act as an important catalyst in this process”.

Martin Charter, competition judge and Director for the Centre for Sustainable Design.

People & Planet are a proactive, grassroots student campaigning network who seek to eliminate the causes of world poverty, environmental degradation and humanitarian injustice through education and action. UK AWARE, is a social enterprise event organiser, who run large greenconsumer events.

Entries will be judged by an expert panel that includes Charlie Browne, Sustainability Coordinator from IKEA, Martin Carter from the Centre for Sustainable Design and Rob Holdway, CEO of Giraffe innovations and advisor to Channel 4’s ‘Dumped’.

The short-listed candidates will have the prestige of being invited on the 10th - 11th May 2008 to showcase their environmentally friendly designs at the Barbican Centre in London. The winner will receive a cash prize of £750. The two runners-up will be awarded a cash prize of £500 and £250 respectively. The deadline for competition entries is on the 15th April 2008.

info: > Current Affairs and News

News from the Student Representative Council (SRC) The SRC meeting of 22 January was a platform for raised voices to kick-start a new term. In total, seventeen items made it to the Agenda, the most any current Council member has seen.

The room was also a little fuller than usual with students taking up their right to observe the meeting. Amongst them were a group of disgruntled students who had come to speak about their experiences for Item Five: Student Accommodation Complaints.

The SRC members were dismayed to hear about the treatment some University Seabraes tenants had experienced in the aftermath of the roof damage caused by violent winds in early January. According to the affected students, the conduct of Sanctuary Management (the company employed by the University of Dundee to handle their residences) was less than satisfactory, as was the temporary accommodation provided at West Park. A janitor employed by Sanctuary, somewhat honestly, admitted that the West Park accommodation provided to the evacuated tenants had in fact not been cleaned since it was last occupied in May 2007.

Furthermore, SRC was informed of the lack of basic kitchen equipment, broken ensuite facilities, and the hiring of numerous taxis in order to move belongings from Seabraes to West Park.

At present, the affected students are seeking advice on this matter. The SRC mandated Student President Milan Bogunovic to take up this issue on the group’s behalf. A letter voicing the Council’s serious concerns has been sent to Dundee Student Village (DSV). Vice President of Representation Jordan Smith currently sits in attendance at DSV board meetings.

The Council encourages other students affected by these events, or simply who are unhappy with their current accommodation situation, to get in touch with your Halls Representative on SRC via exec@dusa.co.uk A contentious debate amongst the student body, Item Nine: Pricing of Sports Centre, was highlighted by Exec and all council members were encouraged to attend the forthcoming General Meeting. Taking a small side step away from SRC, the outcome of the General Meeting mandated D.U.S.A to negotiate I.S.E prices for the next academic year in addition to campaigning against the current prices. D.U.S.A President and Sports President will be working together to raise awareness on behalf of the student body.

Item Twelve was another area of heated debate, as Council decided to rename some of the Executive positions As a result, the Non Sabbaticals will now be called Vice President of their subject instead of ‘Junior Vice President…’ Council deemed this a

step forward in encouraging a 7 strong team rather than highlighting any division between Sabbatical and Non-Sabbatical roles.

For those interested in the University Botanic Gardens, Item Fourteen addressed the current status of the holdings. While Council has been assured that there is no intention to sell the property, the University is seeking to enhance relations with private partners and the local community. One might assume that the Botanic Gardens are being developed in a bid to make the holding a more viable sale for the University in the future. SRC reminds students to be actively aware of the actions taken in light of the Sustainability Review.

In a historic move, the current SRC passed new by-laws and took the opportunity to delve into the workings and representative nature of The Union. After consultation discussions and final proposals, on Tuesday 29 January all by-laws moved from draft stage and were put into effect. Finally, keep an eye out for Council members during the election build up in and around The Union as they promote the forthcoming nomination process and events.

The next meeting of SRC will be held in the D.U.S.A meeting rooms at 6pm on Monday 18 February. LB

“I got 17 Valentine’s day cards this year…cost me a fortune in stamps.”

Cards, flowers, heart-shaped chocolates, teddy bears, all the usual bog standard loving sentiments which come with Valentine’s Day. For a fair few of us, there is one thing preventing singleton’s from participating in these acts of love: a date. Supposedly, Valentine’s Day is the pinnacle of the romantic year but we should really be making everyday a day of romance. Lust, Love, Friendship, Good times and Laughter should be shared with the people most important to you.

Never fear, the love shared on Valentine’s Day is not just for couples; it is for all of us. Here are fourteen reasons why you should keep surviving everyday.

by Lauren Bennie

1. Be positive. Do not define yourself by your relationship. Your relationship status is not your identity.

6.

Planning to go out this week? Be organised.

Don’t end up in a place with cooing couples. Not exactly going to help you survive.

11. Get together with people who you do love like friends, family, the people who already have relationships with you.

2.

If you have recently become single, save a little time for reflection.

Seek out sympathy and support from friends if it gets too much. Be safe in the knowledge that Valentine’s Day has only lasted 24hours.

7.

Valentine’s Day is a commercial holiday. Its all about selling flowers, chocolates and the odd diamond if the student budget stretches. Think of all the money you have saved!

12. If you are really wallowing and in need of attention, place an order at the florist. Get the bouquet sent to your lecture, workplace or shared flat and look flattered when they arrive. You’ll be chirpy in no time at all.

3.

Be sure of who you are. Live life to the fullest.

It is into the fullest lives that love is most likely to fall.

8.

Be thankful that you don’t have to sit through hours of chick flicks to impress some girl.

13. Emerge yourself in activities to take your mind off of the whole event.

4.

Make the most of what you’ve got. Why is that we spend our single life wishing we had a bf/gf? Then when we eventually find someone, we start contemplating how grand it would be to have our single life back.

Whatever position you are in, enjoy it.

9.

Don’t want to be single? Think about what kind of relationship you are looking for. That way, if you ever get into the wrong relationship, you won’t waste too much time with it. Make sure you are in a relationship with a partner who truly deserves you.

14. Finally and quite simply: Be your own purpose.

5.

Love being single?

Do not let a coupledriven culture fool you into thinking you’re making the wrong choice.

10. Celebrate being single. Think about all the other lovely people in the same position as you.

Are your s l a e m g n i t s co the ? h t r ea

By Richard Hawting

A

s our awareness of climate change grows, so too does the realisation of the impact every one of our day-to-day actions has. We are frequently reminded to save energy through all sorts of small actions. By reducing our carbon footprint, we can all play our part in preventing the apocalyptic scenario that some predict.

Yet one lifestyle choice is seldom mentioned when discussing how we can play a part in averting runaway climate change. This lifestyle choice relates to food. The stuff that sustains us every day, the topic of many conversations, TV programmes and social activities could in fact be one of the most damaging effects that we as individuals have on the environment. Buying local, organic, seasonally sourced, even fair-trade food has been found to have less damaging effects on the environment and has enjoyed a growing profile in recent years. However, the biggest impact that we make is not as easy to change. This is of course the consumption of meat and dairy.

To put this claim into relative context, one statistic summarises that a vegan driving a 4x4 has a lower greenhouse gas output than a meat eater who rides a bicycle. This is according to research at the University of Chicago, where the relative carbon intensity of a standard vegan diet in comparison to a US-style carnivorous diet. As reported

by The Guardian, the study found that a

meat based diet emits the equivalent of 1.5 tonnes more CO2 than the standard vegan.

(Of course the amount of meat consumed and the amount of miles driven vary from person to person).This might sound difficult to fathom, but when the process is broken down as to how a piece of meat or dairy arrives on our plates, the significant impact becomes clearer.

Land resources, water consumption, the energy used in transporting and refrigerating, and chemicals used on animal feed all add up to a heavily

resource-intensive way to feed ourselves.

Industrialised farming has become highly inefficient and with our ever-increasing global population, the question will have to be asked whether the resources used on feeding animals that feed us would be better spent on food that goes to us directly.

Agriculture becomes more damaging in relation to global warming when all green house gas emissions are taken into account.

Livestock generates 65 percent of humanrelated nitrous oxide, which has 296 times

the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of CO2. Methane is a gas that is 23 times more potent than carbon dioxide in contributing to climate change and according to a report carried out by United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation, agriculture produces 37 percent of all human-induced methane. Add this to the carbon dioxide produced from the energy used in other areas of production, it becomes evident just how damaging methane can be.

Water use is perhaps the biggest concern.

With fresh global water supplies running out, the amount required to produce the meat we eat explains why this happens.

According to research carried out at Cornell University's Ecology Department, it takes 900 litres per kg of wheat, 3,500 litres per kg of digestible chicken flesh and a massive 100,000 litres for 1kg of beef. There are other studies that estimate lower proportions of water. However what appears to be consistent is that the water usage in feeding animals far outweighs the

necessary amount to grow crops that can be eaten directly.

As with anything, the act of veganism is not flawless. Problems do arise when looking at locally produced sources of protein. The lentils, beans, nuts and seeds that so many rely on cannot be produced in a climate like that of Britain. Many of the meals that vegans enjoy and come to take for granted travel a long way before reaching our dinner plates. Whilst these are issues of concern, it doesn’t mean that they should be used against the overall sustainability that a vegan diet offers. When compared against the land, water, energy usage and greenhouse gas emissions, the distance that the food has travelled does not seem as damaging as when it is viewed in isolation.

Like other ethical lifestyle choices, it is the “least worst” option.

It may seem daunting at first to give up all animal products. Many of the meals that people love are meat or dairy based. After

a bit of exploration however you can find a wealth of information on recipes, nutrition and other’s experiences on becoming vegan. In the same way that vegetarianism was once obscure and at the margins of society, it has become a mainstream diet.

The same can be true of veganism. If the thought of giving up meat and/or dairy is too big a step to think about, the first practical step is to cut down. Many people do find it hard to give up the things they like overnight and so it can require a more gradual process.

The environmental argument for a vegan diet is not the sole reason that many state for changing their eating habits. For some, animal welfare is the utmost concern while health benefits can convince others to become a vegan. Whatever the main reason for becoming vegan, it appears as if it will have to become more and more necessary if we are to continue feeding a growing population and hope to stop climate change.

FASHION...

THE REAL Victim?

It only takes a walk down the high street or a quick flick through the latest issue of any mainstream magazine or newspaper to become aware of the value our society places on textiles, particularly clothes.

Over one trillion pounds is spent on clothes worldwide yearly, employing a global workforce of around 26.5 million.

Companies rush to accommodate the changing tastes in colours, shapes and fabrics by supplying consumers with the latest fashion within weeks of it appearing on the catwalk. But what are the global environmental and social consequences of this phenomenon?

“

...workers in the developing world are responsible for 75% of global cotton production.

”

Firstly, almost half of the global water problems associated with cotton cultivation and textile processing can be attributed to the demand for cotton products. As a result of the cotton industry, precious water resources are mis-managed in the areas that need it most. Freshwater, used for irrigation, is diverted from streams and rivers towards cotton fields. In the case of Uzbekistan, this has resulted in draining the Aral Sea of 80% of its previous volume, leaving behind a lethal dust containing pesticide residue. Erosion as a result of over-farming leaves the land infertile, in some cases permanently. In addition, Uzbekistan still suffers from polluted land, air and drinking water as a result of toxic agrochemicals used 50 years ago.

Uzbekistan’s dictatorship still sanctions the use of cotton pesticides so toxic they were banned under the Soviets. On a wider scale, $819 million worth of chemical pesticides classified as toxic by the World Health Organisation are released each year, causing 25-75 million agricultural workers worldwide to suffer from acute pesticide poisoning. And this only scratches the surface. Once the cotton leaves the fields it passes through factories heavily reliant on fossil fuels to heat water, use in air laundering and to power machinery, before products are shipped around the world for various stages of manufacture (not to mention advertising) before they arrive on the shelves.

With consumer demand in Western countries having almost doubled in the last 30 years, and prices hitting rock bottom as ‘fast-fashion’ hits the high street, companies are scouring the globe for the cheapest labour in areas where costs can be most easily cut to ensure low-prices for consumers. The ensuing poverty exacerbates the environmental effects on the communities, in further reducing the farmer’s access to vital resources such as protective gear, effective regulatory systems, basic safety training, food, water, education and healthcare. This can be seen again in Uzbekistan (from which Europe sources a third of its cotton) where a third of the population, including children, are forced out of schools and factories and submitted to back-breaking work in the cotton fields for little or no pay. Meanwhile in India, rural farmers completely dependent on cotton despair as prices again fall below the cost of production, setting off a phenomenon known as

‘social’ suicide, i.e. suicide as a result of the pressures of not being able to provide for their family. Often poverty in itself is not the cause, but the debts incurred through purchase of agrochemicals and US engineered BT seed (a type of genetically modified cotton seed provided by Western companies despite the fact that it is in many way inferior to various Indian varieties).

Is there a solution? Firstly, a global cut in consumption is needed. Despite the fact that workers in the developing world are responsible for 75% of global cotton production, the vast majority is sold to consumers in the developed world, with North America consuming a quarter of global output and Europe an extra fifth.

Demand continues to increase yet UK consumers send an average of 30kg of clothing and textiles to landfill each year. A cut in consumption would allow freshwater to be redirected back into communities, reduce chemical use, prevent erosion

“

...CEOs on average earn 417 times what their factory workers earn.

”

of land due to over-farming, increase resources available to the community, and cut transport emissions. This doesn’t have to mean simply going without - re-using/ mending old clothes, buying second hand, and investing in clothes which last are also options. Fibres such as ramie, hemp, jute and linen can be used as alternatives to cotton and cause less environmental damage.

by Rachel Irwin In addition, various organic incentives have been put in place, but this is currently a niche market and needs to be brought into the mainstream to have a significant effect.

Global demand currently outstrips supply and it is an economically viable alternative, but it would ideally exist as ‘default’ rather than as a marginal alternative.

However, ‘organic’ in itself is only a partsolution. Despite reducing health risks, environmental damage, and dependence on agrochemicals and imported BT seed, it doesn’t address the economic imbalance.

Often the premium paid goes to the ‘middle man’, i.e. European assessors of the conditions, in reality this often leaves the workers little better off. Besides, fair-trade and organic certification often applies only

measures on their own borders. If the US were to withdraw their subsidies for their cotton industry, world prices would raise from between 11% and 26%.

So what can be done? Buying less and being more creative with second hand materials is a good first step, as is buying organic where possible. Also, don’t be a passive consumer. Let companies know

“

...819 million DOLLARS worth of chemical pesticides classified as toxic by the World Health Organisation are released each year, causing 25-75 million agricultural workers worldwide to suffer from acute pesticide poisoning.

”

to the standards in the fields and not the factories. It is important to buy organic where possible, but sadly although it is necessary it is by no means sufficient in solving the problem of human exploitation.

Many of the problems within the cotton industry are structural. For example, CEOs on average earn 417 times what their factory workers earn. International trade laws and regulations keep countries locked in poverty, further widening the gap between rich and poor by making it possible to drain developing countries of both their environmental and human resources. Furthermore, the laws are imbalanced in favour of wealthy Western countries as they have the power to effectively force open the markets of smaller, dependent countries to free trade initiatives whilst using protectionist

that although clothes may be important to you, so are the livelihoods of those involved in the production line. Show them that you are interested in where and how they source their clothes, and if necessary refuse to buy from places which have particularly bad standards. Don’t let them fob you off by having a fairtrade or organic range, where the profits are still fed back into the company as a whole, and used to fuel further environmental and social exploitation. And most importantly, be aware of the true environmental and social cost of cotton, not the arbitrary figure the high street store chooses to put on it.

Think about where what you have comes from, and how it reaches you. One of the most damaging effects of globalization has been to distance consumers from the source of their products. The question on the lips of the farmers from India’s village of Waifad was, “Why could the politicians and the ‘corporates’ not understand that eventually everyone, including them had to live from the soil.”

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Across 1 Periods of duty done by guards (7,4) 8 Being wild, I scare other drivers (11) 11 Foreign country one’s entered before (4) 12 A real eyesore (4) 13 Caught girl with nothing on with boy (7) 15 Quickness of the hand is unimportant, they say (7) 16 Lawful time, back in the fifties (5) 17 A mother provided for one who lacked one (4) 18 A return of serve which is some way off (4)

Down 19 Embrace for warrior previously decorated? (5) 21 Where one lives a little in Panama, for example (7) 22 Talk on about proportional representation(7) 23 Depend on entirely?

Not half! (4) 26 In the morning he gives a slight cough (4) 27 One looking for a partner, being not really involved (6,5) 28 It’s informal — no fee or difficulty (4-3-4)

2 3 4 5 6

A revolutionary pain (4) A sweet shade of brown (7) His victims lose heart (4) Supreme general (7) Some clear sounds for listeners (4) 7 Hear pianola transcription for wind instrument (7,4) 8 Sphere of the occult (7,4) 9 This could make you afraid to go on (5,6) 10 Money routed for development of religious work (11) 14 Gave everyone a hand (5) 15 Verbal authority (3-2)

Sudoku Sudoku and crossword every day Play with your mind

No S1, Level: Gentle To solve this puzzle each 3 x 3 box, each row and each column must contain all the numbers 1 to 9. While the rules of this logic puzzle may be simple, there are numerous strategies to help you solve sudoku.

19 It sees or can be seen in the dark (4-3) 20 Quietly withdraw and go before the others (7) 24 You have the right of ownership (4) 25 An air of sanctity (4) 26 Skills he required to make a suit (4)

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Register for our student discount scheme and you could be reading The Daily Telegraph for as little as 25p. To claim your vouchers freephone 0800 181 222 or e-mail student@telegraph.co.uk Please include your name, address, university, the year your course ends, your student ID number and REF 280.

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Are you open-minded, daring and looking for a change of style?

Eassons Hairdressing Salon at 310 Perth Road is looking for models who would be open-minded about cut and colour for photographic and show work.

All that is required is the right attitude.

Eassons ask that any interested candidates contact them by phone on 01382 660000 or alternatively pop into the salon for a quick chat.

Angela and her team also invite The Magdalen readers to take advantage of their colour sale through out February from 19th to 28th. All colour services receive 25% discount off the full price during this time. Just mention that you heard it from Dundee University’s student Magdalen first!

Fashion

Sizzling Selections

Moving unwaveringly into 2008, we begin our anticipation of the spring/summer collection being brought to life all throughout the UK. The eagerness is entirely understandable as the trends bring about the incredibly fresh and distinctive style that is so essential for this season.

Spring/Summer Collection 2008 For spring/summer 2008, we have the Flowers, Feathers and Furs trends that are getting recognition in all shapes and forms. Blossoming flowers make their appearance yet again on the catwalk but they range from extravagantly painted blooms in bold colours (Kenzo) to small and large floral prints (Stella McCartney). For the brave, we dare to clash detail patterns with colours. Topshop have started to do a great variety of tops and dresses with prices ranging from ÂŁ25 while Matalan have an assortment of tea dresses starting from a reasonable ÂŁ18.

Alexander McQueen

Feathers have slowly started to make their way into the catwalk and will most definitely arrive on the high-street soon. From a combination of the 20’s flapper chic to the exaggerated bird-like form, feathers are a great way to liven up your outfit. For the day look, wear a feather-printed top, keeping it simple and smart and for the evening, try a short, sexy dress. Topshop have a collection of tops and dresses which have ruffles and give that feather effect, as does Dorothy Perkins and French Connection and for accessories, try Monsoon Accessorize. Have a peek at designers such as Lanvin and Alexander McQueen in order to get an idea of what to look for.

Christian Dior

Another up and coming motif that showered the catwalk this season is the animal print. Designs from Christian Dior and Dolce & Gabbana set the precedent for what is to be the wildest aspect of the spring/summer collection.

Taking inspiration from big cats of the animal kingdom such as tigers and panthers to the predator sharks of the sea, the high street will soon be falling in love with the idea of the animal print. Have a look at Office for shoes and Julien Macdonald at Debenhams have a great selection of tops and accessories that live up to the high-fashion image.

H&M Presents....

Fashion Against AIDS

by Laila Issa

Sometimes fashion has a greater purpose than simply making us look great. H&M and Designers Against AIDS (DAA) are joining forces in the battle against AIDS and are launching a collection for guys and girls together with Timbaland, Rihanna, Katherine Hamnett, and Ziggy Marley to name a few. The aim is to spread awareness about HIV/AIDS, which affects many young people all over the world. The collection “Fashion Against AIDS” is available in H&M’s Divided departments from February 2008.

(YES! Dundee is stocking the range!)

The artists have generously volunteered, and an incredible 25 per cent of the proceedings from the collection will go to HIV/AIDS-prevention projects and will hope to reach about 600 million young people around the world.

The t-shirts and tops are designed by the artists are made of 100% certified organic cotton and are priced from £7.99 to £19.99.

The designs reflect the artists, from Ziggy Marley’s Jamaican inspired “Love Is My Religion”, to the more straight-to-thepoint slogan “Use A Condom”, designed by Katherine Hamnett. There is something for everyone, and as the special hang tags on the shirts read: “This might be the most important piece of clothing you’ve ever had your hands on.”

Film Reviews

by Eoin Boylan

> Films

DVD’s you should own!

To watch or not to watch? What films should you be spending your hard earned cash on:

by Lauren Bennie

Run, Fat Boy, Run

Directed by David Schwimmer

No Country For Old Men Age certification (15)

Juno

Age certification (12a)

Without giving too much away, this film is not what it seems. Based on a book by Cormac McCarthy and directed / produced

by Joel and Ethan Coen, this is not your typical chase movie. Featuring a killer with the coldest blood (and worst haircut) you will ever experience, on the surface it may just appear to be a slick kill-fest and personal vendetta story. However this is a film, which explores a world, particularly the American Deep South, struggling to comprehend the lengths people will go to for a quick fix. We are given an insight into the mind of the onlooker to this bizarre and apathetic attitude to what seems like mindless crime. Executed flawlessly and provocatively raw, anything this mesmerising must be treasured forever.

Although it’s a bit early, this reviewer can state that the Coens have made the film of the year so far. EB

Impossibly charming and fiendishly quick witted, Juno is an interesting piece about a 16 year old who falls pregnant and decides to put her unborn child up for adoption.

With an exceptional performance from Hard Candy’s Ellen Page as the smart mouthed teen, complimenting a script with as much wit and pop culture as you would find in any Kevin Smith movie, this is a middleAmerican comedy which explores the under-statement and subtlety of suburbia life. It honestly shouldn’t be as good as it is, but somehow you’ll leave feeling like that hour and a half, during which nothing really happened, was altogether worthwhile in the end. EB

Rating

Rating

Simon Pegg’s latest acting credentials have seen him move effortlessly from the small to big screen in, this David Schwimmer’s first directors role for Run, Fat Boy, Run. Thandie Newton plays the one-time pregnant fiancée who Dennis (Pegg) walked out on six years previously (on their wedding day… as if it wasn’t bad enough already). Dennis, the everyday free-spirited security guard realises he’s made the biggest mistake of his

life and in a bid to win her back, conquering the marathon is just the event to help him in his quest. Cue, Dennis’s sidekick played effortlessly by Dylan Moran to rack up some comical one-liners. Also keep your eye out for a certain David Walliams cameo appearance. This charming comedy illustrates how wonderfully simple British humour can be and champions Simon Pegg’s ability with all the credibility he deserves.

Love Music > Dundee artist review

> Alternative artist reviews Goldfrapp

Supergrass

Laurie Cameron

Goldfrapp are back on the scene with their first proper album since 2005’s platinum selling Supernature. Taken from their forthcoming album Seventh Tree, new single A&E (Accident and Emergency for those who didn’t know) seems like a bit of a departure from the majority of their previous work; slower with more natural vocals, but still features a sound that is distinctly Goldfrapp. It is perhaps due to similar sounding records from Kylie and Roisin Murphy recently that the duo have decided to opt for a slight change in direction. Whatever the reason, this is a nice song, perfect for listening to whilst fighting off the Sunday morning hangover. GM

Supergrass return after a three year absence with this, the lead single from upcoming album Diamond Hoo Ha. The song is relatively catchy and is likely to do well. It does however, lack the charm of their earlier work back when they were one of the main bands of the Britpop era. Anyway, in current times where the charts are dominated by what seems like a million so-so indie bands, it’s good to see that some decent music can still stand the test of time. GM

Rating

Rating

Currently, female singer/songwriters are battling the likes of The Enemy and The View for a spot of success. It would be unfair to compare Laurie to sounds from KT Tunstall or Kate Nash or Adele because her young voice has clarity unlike that of a rocker or a cockney songster. Her rendition of “It’s a Wonderful world” has a purity surrounding it with an essence of Eva Cassidy and Nora Jones. Despite Laurie’s age, her original track, Train to Anywhere, captures serious emotional experience with lyrics like, ‘If I can’t find time, then I can’t find acceptance.’ There are no strings attached to Laurie’s lyrical abilities. Here we are presented with a very raw talent who sings of finding “…a place where I can make a new name.” Take your own train journey with Ms Cameron, champion our very own artist right here on campus. The music scene is band dominated at the moment, Laurie now needs to find her chance to push through and Dundee University students can help in this task. LB

A&E (Mute Records)

Diamond Hoo Ha Man (Parlophone)

Oxjam Perth Concert Hall

> The soundtrack of your life

by Gavin McNee

Dave MacLeod (DUSA VP of Communications) Q. The first song you ever loved?

A. Lodi - Creedence Clearwater Revival.

Q. First song you ever bought?

A. Oh Carolina - Shaggy!

Q. Song that reminds you of Uni? A. Mr Brightside - The Killers

Q. The world is coming to an end!

What is the last song you want to hear?

A. Not quite sure what this track would be but would almost certainly be written by Don Henley.

Q. Song of the moment?

A. Just for Tonight - One Night Only

> Albums the world should own

An Album of Anthems Daft Punk – Discovery For those of you who missed out on the epic event which was Daft Punk’s return to British soil at Rockness 2007, this edition’s ‘Albums the world should own’ is Discovery. Being present at the unleashing of their almighty neon light show in a field on the edge of Loch Ness was something those in attendance will never forget. Do not feel bitter about your absence. Instead switch on to Daft Punk’s Discovery and ignite an intense feeling in your mind and soul, let the electronic sounds and house beats move every part of your body.

Released in March of 2001, Daft Punk’s second studio album was, and remains, a colourful culmination of artistic sampling and new instrumental performances to compliment the electronic house vibe. Thomas Bangalter (one half of the elusive French Daft Punk duo) described Discovery as an album which had, “…a lot to do with [his] childhood and the memories of the state we were in at that stage of our lives.”

By 2005, Discovery had sold over 2.6 million copies and cult classics were spawned in ‘One More Time’ and ‘Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger’. In an evolving cycle of musical talent, Kayne West’s sampling of H.B.F.S in 2007 for his track ‘Stronger’ is a testament to the creative longevity Daft Punk can maintain.

The consistency and collectivity of Daft Punk will propel them to future chart success because they are not confined to a particular genre. With an ability to be playful and animated on one track and deliver hard intensity on another, Daft Punk will continue to dominate the House/Dance/Chart/Festival scene. Where and whenever they choose to resurface, an energetic and passionate crowd awaits them. LB

A worthy addition to any collection!

> Myspacez of the month Jocasta Sleeps

myspace.com/jocastasleeps Jocasta Sleeps – Callum, John, Terry and Niall make up this foursome from Glasgow, describing themselves as “roughed-up melodic niceness”.

With over 18,000 profile views, this band has a fresh rock sound, with their influences ranging from Bloc Party to Jeff Buckley.

They’re our ‘Myspace of the month’ ‘cause we love their rocky tune ‘Beautiful Dreams’ and the more quiet rock ‘Old Ideas’, so check out their profile. Like what you hear?

They have loads of gigs lined up this year, including the Doghouse Dundee in April, so check them out. LC

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Is it wrong to break from your kiss to turn up a pop song?

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> Single Reviews

by Lauren Bennie .Joe

Lean and the Jing Jang Jongs Lonely Buoy

This track might float someone’s boat but with a vocalist trying to squeeze as many words into each line as possible, my raft was well and truly submerged.

Following in the early footsteps of The View, Joe Lean supported Babyshambles at the tail end of 2007. February sees the band joining the Cribs on the NME award tour (an occasion surely to add to their musical CV.) Really not sure what to make of this group.

The sound just doesn’t seem fresh although it was upbeat. Time to sink or swim.

Rating

Art Brut Pump Up the Volume

Now this track had a little more substance to it. The lyrics (well more of a chant really) were completely indulgent of imagery. Pump up the volume is playful and energetic which casts a smile over my face (something those close to me say doesn’t happen often). Art Brut compel the listener to wait for the whole story to play out. The band narrates those encountered moments with the opposite sex.

In a twist of humour, they ask, “Is it wrong to break from your kiss to turn up a pop song?”

The Enemy This Song is about you

No introduction required. The latest track from the band’s no.1 album is the fifth single release to date. 2008 will see the continuing rise for the trio if the indierockers can keep the charts to themselves.

The track reflects social decay in modern Britain an issue not too dissimilar to life in Dundee, “…half the kids you grew up with were pushing prams by the time they were 16…”

Catching their gig in Dundee back in October has installed a sense of pride in me; they handled a rowdy crowd with ease.

If you’re not one for buying singles, make this an exception. The B-sides will include a remix by Rollo and Sister Bliss (Faithless).

Does it Offend You Yeah?

We are Rockstars

Does it Offend You Yeah? are the perfect example of how success can derive from a steady internet following. What first started as an online buzz, DIOYY? are now a certified band of 2008. Moving from the cyber scenario, they now release We are Rockstars.

Looping guitar riffs retrace their steps in your consciousness while electronic punked-up vocalist James rolls alongside distorted bass lines. The track itself addresses the nature of social networking, a key some would say to their success.

Rating

Rating

Royworld Man in the Machine

XXTeens How to Reduce the Chances of Being a Terror Victim

Lead singer Rod Futrille has a grungy kind of voice more suited to heavy metal, yet the tinkering on the guitar and piano assaults send out a signal of eccentricity.

Man in the Machine is Royworld’s debut single which is both catchy and toetapping. With opening lyrics, reminiscent of a letter, you wonder if you’ve stumbled across some secret recording: “Dave, is there something wrong? You’re here but you’ve already gone.”

With an already idyllic nature and creative narratives, Art Brut has created a curiosity in followers for new material. I know I probably shouldn’t, but yeah, I would break from your kiss if this magical little number came on.

These days, bands have to go through Radio 1 before getting signed but Royworld has already accomplished this, receiving praise from Jo Whiley and being championed by Dermot O’Leary on Radio 2.

Rating

Rating

If nothing else, there are a few lessons to be learned from the record. XXTeens put a modern slant on Baz Luhrman’s Sunscreen Song of the nineties. More like a statement than a musical masterpiece, the XXTeens have been clever to address the sort of governmentally sanctioned scaremongering advice on terror prevention.

How to reduce the chances of being a terror victim is an indictment against the current climate of fear. Here are a few of their tips: Get yourself fingerprinted. Don’t become complacent. Keep an eye out for unattended luggage. Make out a will. Don’t rely solely on the government, do your own research. Avoid heavily glassed areas. Do not work above an underground car park.

Do not park in an underground gar park.

Terrorists love car bombs.

Rating

“Freshin’ up for the ladies.”

Refreshers Week Highlight 2008 > Gig Reviews

Saturday 19th January saw the return of Snow Patrol’s Gary and Tom to the Union along with fellow musician Richard of Belle and Sebastian to play a one-off DJ set for us.

Being the last piece of entertainment from a great line up in Refreshers Week, everyone piled into Mono for a fantastic night from the DJ’ers. And the boys sure delivered.

With a table full of alcohol and a packed dance-floor the Snow Patrol boys looked like they were thrilled to be back on the stage where they played their first ever gig.

Leaving behind their guitars and mic’s for a night, the guys pulled out their decs and favourite records and played an awesome set. Their mix included a whole range of songs which suited practically everyone, from the usual Saturday night tunes to more edgier music including We Are Scientists.

Gary pulled himself away from his DJ decs on several occasions throughout the night, giving autographs, posing for photos and having some drunken banter with a load of loving fans (mainly girls!) They clearly managed to put on a memorable night for their packed crowd, some describing it as ‘the highlight of Refreshers Week 2008’.

Let’s hope the guys return to the Union sometime soon to pull off another great night. LC

Our very own talented reviewer Laurie Cameron with Gary from Snow Patrol.

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Snow Patrol boys looked like they were thrilled to be back on the stage where they played their first ever gig.

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Edith Bowman > Celebrity Interview Gavin McNee: You’re from Anstruther in Fife originally; I heard that your parents own the fish bar?

Edith Bowman: They don’t own the fish bar actually, they used to own a hotel in Anstruther called The Crowe’s Nest which does a pretty good fish and chips. The area is renowned for having the best fish and chips. Tom Hanks has eaten there and he agrees. Every time I go back there is always a massive queue with all the students there from Dundee and St. Andrews.

GM: So, growing up around this area, did you come to Dundee often?

EB: Yeah, Dundee was like a sort of metropolis. It felt like a million miles away when you were younger. We used to go to the cinema, go bowling or go to the pool with all the big flumes. It was always a bit of a trek if you came on the bus though because it takes around an hour. My mum and dad would ask where I wanted to go for dinner and I would say “Wimpy” and the nearest one was in Dundee. I know for people in Anstruther that Dundee is the place to come in terms of nightlife. I love The Social, I’ve got quite drunk in there!

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All experiece is good experience.

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The Law is what I am hearing is coming through at the moment, very much following in the footsteps of The View.

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they have loads of stuff down there. It’s called The Priory, I just love the whole kind of ethos. That’s what areas need in order for their bands to really get noticed. Since the success of bands like Franz Ferdinand, Biffy Clyro, Glasvegas are really coming through at the moment and The View from this area, the spotlight is more on Scottish bands than it used to be.

GM: You’re big break was as a newsreader on MTV back in 1997?

EB: Yeah, before that when I was at Queen Margaret Uni (Edinburgh) I used to basically stalk the controller of the local radio station to give me work experience. I knew that

’

GM: Are you up on your knowledge of the Dundee music scene?

EB: The Law is what I am hearing is coming through at the moment, very much following in the footsteps of The View. When we were up here for (Radio 1’s) One Big Weekend we did this thing where unsigned bands got the chance to showcase their talents. I went down to an underage place, almost like a youth centre,

once I’d left Uni I would also need to get as much experience as I could. I got a week’s work experience and was asked back for weekends. When I graduated, I moved to London and did an office job for about six months and whilst I was there, I was sending out tapes to people and that’s when MTV came up, they were looking for people for their UK channel.

GM: I remember seeing you in RI:SE when it started out.

EB: Yeah, that was a killer! It was an amazing experience though as not a lot of people get the chance to do live television for five days a week. It was never really given a chance as there was so much admiration for The Big Breakfast. It could never replace it but it wasn’t given enough time. I got to work with some great people; I met Colin (Murray) through it, Mark Durden-Smith and Helen (Chamberlain) who I all still keep in touch with. All experience is good experience.

GM: Are you enjoying having your own show?

EB: I am actually; it was really scary to start with. When Colin told me that he needed a

Reporter Gavin McNee with Edith. new challenge, I cried my eyes out. I wasn’t expecting to be given the show but my bosses had confidence in me. To start with it felt like learning to walk again. It’s only now that I feel that I’m at the pace that I want to go at. It’s very different having a show of your own instead of having someone to fire off all the time. I’ve always wanted it to be the audiences show as well.

GM: If you got the chance to do a oneoff reunion show with Colin Murray, would you be right in there?

EB: I see him most days anyway but yeah it would be good fun.

GM: Do you have a particular favourite festival or do you prefer One Big Weekend?

EB: One Big Weekend is very different from the rest of the festivals but last year it started to feel more like one. T in the Park was the first festival that I went to and I’m always incredibly proud of it, just how much it has grown over the years and how much the bands enthuse over it. I like the fact that because it’s in Balado, everyone has to make the effort to get there.

GM: You did the BBC’s coverage of Live 8, how did it feel to be part of such a big event that will go down in history?

EB: To be honest, I did Live 8 and I did Live Earth and I was more involved with Live Earth. I did the radio coverage for Live 8 but TV stuff for Live Earth, our studio was right beside the stage and when we stood up, we could see Dave Grohl running up and down the stage. It’s really important to get involved in those things if you believe in them. There was a lot of negative criticism about them but it is better to do something than nothing at all.

VPC Dave MacLeod with the star attraction.

GM: Back to your show, do you have a favourite and least favourite guest that you’ve had on it?

‘

It’s really important to get involved in those things [Live 8] if you believe in them.

There was a lot of negative criticism about them but it is better to do something than nothing at all.

’

EB: The best guest would have to be Tom Hanks. He’s one of the biggest movie stars in the world, he’s got a license to refuse pictures and walk into the room with a huge entourage but he’s not like that. He walked in on his own, poured himself a glass of coke and just chatted away. He’s very down to earth! Least favourite guest would have to be Rupert Everett; he was really negative and bitchy, bitter even. There was no need for him to be like that.

When I interview people I just want to have a chat, I don’t try and dig dirt on people; I’m not Perez Hilton or anything like that. I’m interested in what they do and what makes them do it. I was really disappointed; I’m a big fan of Shrek.

GM: You do the movie blog for Radio 1, what are your hot picks for 2008?

EB: There’s a film called Juno with Ellen Page and Michael Cera from Arrested Development. I’m really excited about the new Indiana Jones film too. The new Bond film is out in November and they’ve only just began shooting it. I love a bit of Bond at Christmas. I’m really interested to see who they’ll get to do the theme tune.

GM: Just to finish off, what music should we look out for in 2008?

EB: I’m a big fan of this band called Vampire Weekend from New York; they’re signed to the same label as Jack Peñate and Adele.

There’s a band from Nottingham called I Was a Cub Scout who make really accessible pop music. Ida Maria from Denmark and The Foals are likely to be big too. There are a lot of big bands coming back too but it’s always nice to get a few new bands as well.

n e l a d g ... a M ets e M

Page 6

by Natalie Coupar [Please note: the following is only an interpretation of what happened on the night of the gig, due to the consumption of alcoholic beverages the Magdalen experienced short term memory loss, however acted in a completely professional manner at all times] It’s great to finally see a consistent stream of bands play at our union, and Wednesday night paid tribute to the fact that the music scene in Dundee is still living up to it’s name of producing great musical talents.

Magdalen music is here to keep you on your toes and in the know with what’s braw and what’s naw in YOUR scene.

Floor 5’s None of the Above night played host to two of the top talents in Dundee music. The Carellos, a relatively new fivepiece playing raucous rock n‘ roll, and Page 6, a top-notch funky quartet, who (much to their dismay) had to experience the wrath of The Magdalen after their gig.

Being honest, when I first heard the Carellos last year I was dubious, wondering if they were just a product of a thriving music scene, another band to fill in the slots.

However, the gig on Wednesday night made me feel as stupid as Britney Spears after the Carellos managed to take hold of every person in the crowd. They formed in January 2007 and have gone from strength to strength delivering catchy, well structured tunes that you cannae help but dance to. Ryan McClaren emanates an almost football casual aura, which is only a good thing when you want your crowd to go mental. Songs like the playful “Helicopter” (which has bloody amazing guitar riffs by the way) and the totally

stomping “Maxine” are only of a few of the chaotic songs that the Carellos feature in their set-list. Every member of that band has talent, passion and above all, energy. If you’ve not seem them yet, make sure you do, because you want to be one of those people that can say “I saw them in Dundee,” when they’re playing T in the Park in years to come.

“But the barmaids had enough of our antics,” is possibly one of the best lyrics in Dundee right now. It’s simple, I know, but so relative to everyone in our bingedrinking culture. Page 6 are the proud owners of these wise words, and played an outstanding set on Wednesday. I was quite disappointed that a lot of you chose to stay at home and watch telly, when you could have witnessed one of the best bands to have played the Union (and not JUST do a DJ set, eh Snow Patrol?). Where Page 6 win is that their music doesn’t pigeonhole themselves to one genre, or one audience. To name but a few of their top songs, “What’s the Point” is the perfect demonstration of Ryan “Shig” Russells flair for singing, Stef Pogorzelec’s flawless drumming, and “What’s wrong with us” features one of the most memorable guitar riffs in Dundee music. Now I know it sounds like I’m a total arse-licker, but do you know what? I couldn’t care. I’m backing a good team, and so should you. Every gig they play gets better and better without sounding repetitive and uninteresting.

They’re set got a good crowd response, which for the Union, is hard if you’ve not got 3 number one’s and two albums under your belt.

After the gig, the Magdalen was so blown away by their set that they felt it compulsory to get an interview from Page 6. How they understood us, I have little idea,

but they agreed and left the impression that they were one of the most genuine bands around. We sat down, the Magdalen, Ryan (singer), Mark (guitar) and Stef (drums) and proceeded to discuss who they are, what they wanted from the band and where they were going. Now if you didn’t know this already, Page 6 already have an E.P released, which they produced and recorded themselves. That’s a whole lot of talent already.

Page 6 have already been on STV, National news and been recommended by XFM’s Jim Gellatly. Due to play gigs in Cabaret Voltaire in Edinburgh in March and then the iconic King Tut’s in Glasgow in April, you can see by talking to the lads that they’re aware of how far they’ve come…and appreciate it. It’s not often you’ll find a band willing to give something back by playing gigs all over high school’s in Dundee, realising that if you really want to, you can make your school-kid dreams happen. (Note: I understand how cheesy that sounds.)

The notorious Page 6 van, which you’ve probably spotted already, will be making its way around Scotland, so keep yer eyes open. Here at the Magdalen we are proud to support new music in Dundee and will continue to do so, we can only hope you take our advice to go and see these bands.

The Carellos and Page 6 are great at what they do, and it’s your job to further them by showing your support at gigs.

And kids, drink responsibly, you want to remember seeing bands as talented as these lads. www.myspace.com/thecarellosdundee www.myspace.com/page6music

The Many Facets of Walter is currently available to buy at Grouchos, Zavvi and online through Page 6 myspace.

g n i n g i s r e d you ent m n o r i v n e

by Barbara Barbara Anderson Anderson by Everything has been designed. From the houses we live in to the food we eat, nothing is accidental. It therefore stands to reason that design has a far-reaching impact and influence.

With this influence comes a level of responsibility. There are several design movements accepting this accountability and responding to the problems the world currently faces, especially environmental damage.

The first of these is Design for Sustainability (DfS). The term encompasses a broad set of theories and practitioners. Sustainable practice, not only in design, is often characterised by the Triple Bottom Line theory. The three areas which make up the Triple Bottom Line approach are people, planet and profit. This means that the impact of a sustainable design or endeavour is considered in human, environmental and economic terms.

There are several different methods of implementing DfS one of which is life cycle cost, which considers the financial, environmental and social

cost of a design from conception through to production and its ultimate disposal.

This allows designs to be viewed by their overall lifetime value rather than just initial monetary cost. Another key approach is closed loop systems, a production chain which produces no waste products and completely recycles, reuses or composts all materials.

The next movement is Slow Design which encompasses a variety of techniques and approaches that address the complex issues surrounding “fastness�, including its effects on the environment. There are many complementary areas within Slow Design, these include: traditional, ritual, experiential, evolved, slowness, eco-efficiency, open source knowledge and technology. Slow Design has many strengths, perhaps the most important is its willingness to contest modern notions of consumption. It does this not by suggesting people should go without possessions, but by attempting to offer something more meaningful that caters for human needs rather than manipulated desires led by marketing.

The final movement is Co-design. It is

based on the belief that people using the end product or service, whatever that may be, deserve a say in how it is designed and produced, from start to finish. In practice Co-design shifts the role of the designer, in a traditional sense, to everyone. The designer then takes on a variety of roles as facilitator, educator and technical advisor. No individual contribution is less important than another. What makes Codesign so effective is its ability to pull every concerned party into a constructive and creative debate. What it produces at the end is something which satisfies everyone and invariably addresses environmental concerns.

In most cases a designer’s perception of the industry they work in is formed in higher education institutions. Unsurprisingly emphasis is put on design for industry and the consumer market, with the saleability of a design being a key feature. This is not to deny the innovation often achieved in universities and colleges but this is often within a traditional framework. There is a time limit set on the freedoms of young designers which seems to end in the final stages of their degree when market

t n trends and future employment become an overarching concern. To a certain extent this is understandable, students must be prepared for the fact that many opportunities to work on large-scale projects will come from commercial ventures and corporate enterprise. Slow Design, Co-design, Design for Sustainability and other similar movements are also conspicuous in their relative absence from the curriculum of most higher education courses, although this is changing. It is therefore necessary to look to alternative sources of design education.

Open-source design can be used as a tool to bypass sectors of industry which are unwilling to produce certain products. The role of the designer changes in allowing their work, not only to be accessed over the Internet, but to enable their work to be reproduced worldwide by providing online tutorials. This is an increasing trend with websites such as Readymade. com, Makezine.com and Burdastyle. com. With these websites designs reach larger audiences, are adapted, changed and reposted. The designer becomes an educator and everyone re-creating

the design becomes the producer.

Designs are often made from re-used and recycled materials as they are easy to obtain. The democratising and localising of production has the potential to alter notions surrounding mass-production.

Designers are able to remove themselves from the system of selling while sharing their ideas with a far wider audience than could be reached by selling a product in one outlet. It is crucial that designers learn of the existence of these websites. What design can do is offer real and appealing alternatives to our current social and political systems. By reducing consumption and localising production designers can prevent the environmental damage done by industrial processed.

‘Great movements for social change always begin with statements of great optimism.

Facing as we do today so many interlocking challenges, one of our biggest tasks is simply this: to be willing to look so many looming catastrophes in the face and courageously point out that radical changes for the better are possible. History attests that if we can show people a better future, we can build movements that will change

the world’ (Alex Steffen) To build a design movement with world changing potential, designers need to be shown a ‘better future’. This means giving them the opportunity to work outside of the normal sphere of designing for industry. This would offer people a real and tangible example of the positive influence their talents could have, no matter how seemingly insignificant. Students should be given live briefs to design for real problems and basic human needs.

In a wider sense design could offer many views of a ‘better future’ to society as a whole. It could, and is beginning to, demonstrate that environmental solutions do not have to mean austere, lifeless self-discipline. By its very nature, design solves problems and presents appealing solutions. If a widespread change in society is to be achieved, alternatives must be presented. Design has the power to make this kind of example applicable in any country in the world. It is time for design to be re-politicised as a whole and designers to realise the immense power they could wield.

How will you build for the future?

by Dominic Hewlett

N

ow that issues of sustainability have become undeniably mainstream, the green microscope is focusing on architecture.

After highlighting the quantities of CO2 emitted by air travel, cars and other vehicles, like these greenhouse gas producing activities, our built environment is now subjected to the same criticism. Finally we are at a defining point to take this debate forward; design and environment. So what does this mean for students?

Our first problem is defining the sustainability of any particular building.

Slapping on some solar panels and a wind turbine doesn’t quite turn the average terraced or semi-detached home into an eco-friendly, carbon neutral residence. It’s a good start, but for existing buildings the sensible strategy would be to upgrade the insulating properties and efficient appliances in addition to switching off lights and equipment. Only then can we can think about fitting micro renewable options.

This isn’t really the realm of the architect but when it comes to a new construction, the design, materials, and planning are brought together by the architect

who can really show how sustainability can be a very subtle part of a creation without spoiling the client’s and users experience.

The design of a building should reflect the way a space is used. How often are spaces lit with daylight? In Scotland this can be quite a challenge during the winter months due to fewer hours of daylight available. Orientation and the location can hamper the sunlight getting into rooms through windows. This is where the creativity of the architect will find methods of harvesting the ambient or direct light and delivering it to where it is needed.

Materials like timber, straw bale and rammed earth are currently not common core elements of the primary building structure. As they become accepted techniques in construction, the embedded energy cost by using them can be greatly reduced.

Planning for a whole development is a task that can be undertaken by architects and one that is very important when considering the potential influence of

decisions taken on social behaviour.

Examples of success and failure can be found throughout history and some of the best developments are seen in the European mainland. The brilliant foresight of town planners to connect major housing projects with transport links like bus routes, cycle paths and tram lines is finally being accepted by UK politicians and planners. It also helps to place housing within walking distance of work, leisure facilities, green open spaces and shops. Both these concepts reduce the car dependency that many westernised towns and cities have adopted.

All these possibilities mean the homes we live in now will change in the future, both in conspicuous and unseen ways.

It is impossible to list every way to make the places where we live more sustainable in this article. The vital force to bring this positive change will ultimately be you, the next generation of engineers, lawyers, artists, scientists, economists, managers, politicians and leaders who will be discovering new and improved means of resources we have to share between an ever growing world population. Architects will not be alone. The action of many disciplines will be required. Traditional boundaries will be crossed to change our lives. Just like the social networking that most of you participate in now, so the changes will also be initiated and championed by groups united by a common goal. Why is it so important to do this? The reasons are many – a better quality of life, living without the fear of being flooded, knowing there is enough food on the table, or simply to enable you to continue watching the ‘footie’ on Saturday afternoon, surely reason enough isn’t it?

Mind, bottle and spirit.

by Lauren Bennie

I

n amongst all this Go Green planet saving malarkey (which is of great importance), it is easy to forget about ourselves. While we are learning how to recycle our plastics and papers, it is also of utmost importance that you look after your body. The Gym is just across the road from our Union but with a pint in one hand and an umbrella in the other sometimes it just makes sense to take the easy way out.

And this is precisely what I recommend.

There may exist a few amongst us who have never heard of Innocent smoothies and so The Magdalen introduces those to the delights behind the company Innocent.

In 2003, they began by using bottles made from 25% recycled plastic and doubled this by 2006. One year later, Innocent defied the experts and now use a bottle made from 100% recycled plastic. Browsing through their publication about ethics, I can’t help but think that The Union should be taking one step further in a bid to encourage student awareness of the bigger issues. We are intelligent creatures (when we’re not in Mono on a Wednesday night) and should be demanding more environmentally friendly business transactions from our Union. Are we happy that coffee is one of the only fair-trade items our bar sells? Do you want to see more recycling bins around the union or outside in the foyer perhaps?

What is important to point out that being environmentally friendly can be a bit taxing at times which in turn produces a twang of guilt every now and again but get this: recycling your body with an Innocent Smoothie not only contributes to one of your 5-a-day, their new bottle is now 100% recyclable too. Now how about that for an easy way out.

For further inspiration I direct you to www. innocentsdrinks.co.uk. And to suggest further environmentally friendly upgrades for the Union email themagdalen@dusa. co.uk and we will propose them to your Student Representative Council as a future campaign.

If the Innocent team are anything to go by, we should keep our chins up in the fight against climate change.

Do your bit for…yourself (oh and the planet).

Renewable Energy:

by Kimberly Ellis Industry, transport, communication, a warm apartment, your toaster – what do all of these have in common? They need energy to work. What would our world look like without the energy that comes from the plug or the pipe? Rather antiquated, yes. There is no doubt that our standard of living is closely related to our modern and reliable energy supply. But is our energy industry really modern and will it be reliable in the future? This is probably the biggest challenge of our century. Climate change, growing world population, increasing energy demand and the depletion of natural resources are just some of the problems we are facing.

Renewable Energy undoubtedly has a large role to play in solving these problems. It will be available as long as we live on this planet, it is sustainable and ecological and will contribute to world peace and development, it is technically possible to switch over to perfect energy autonomy and on top of that it can also be economic.

The record should be set straight with arguments brought forward by renewableenergy-opponents.

The only way to go?

Although the sun might not shine on one spot 24-7 and the wind does not always blow with the same intensity, a reliable uninterrupted service can be guaranteed by an intelligently designed network of mixed renewable energy sources. This has been successfully shown by a recent study carried out by Eurosolar (the European Association for Renewable Energy).

The relatively rapid development in the renewable energy sector in Germany is mainly a result of the Renewable Energy Act, which was implemented in 2000, granting federal feed-in tariffs to individual renewable energy suppliers, these guarantee a specific amount of money per kWh electricity produced, depending on the type of regenerative energy source.

The study is concerned with the feasibility of providing Hessen, one of the sixteen German federal states with 100% renewable energy by the year 2025. This could only be achieved not by using one renewable energy source, but a broad mix. Using technology available today, the energy mix would consist of 35% wind energy, 28% biomass, 22% solar, 10% geothermal and 5% hydropower. The study shows, that the last third towards the 100% target will take somewhat longer to achieve, since more electricity storage facilities such as compressed air energy storage or pumped storage hydroelectricity, which have proved to be quite efficient in the past, will have to be established.

But still there is more to be achieved politically in order to encourage investments in the renewable energy sector, since the major (conventional) energy suppliers want to keep their market domination by lobbying politicians, green washing nuclear and now even coal power plants. They try to make the general public believe that renewable energy is uneconomic by externalising much of their energy production costs. A new large-scale power plant, for example, which is now constructed, only pays off if it works to full capacity for the next 30 years. Nuclear energy generation is claimed to be “clean” or “carbon-neutral”, apart from being “cost-effective”, but looking closely at the emissions involved the whole uraniumproduction, transport, construction of the power plant and the cost for the “sensible” nuclear waste disposal (subsidised by taxpayers), one will come to the conclusion that it’s not quite that easy to tackle climate change.

Apart from the responsibility we, as industrialised nations, have for the developing world and future generations, in economic terms it is also advisable to act now, as the Stern Review on the Economics of Climate Change clearly states. If no action is taken, an economic loss between 5 and 20 per cent of global gross domestic product (GDP) could occur. To take action, Stern, Chief Economist and Senior VicePresident of the World Bank, prognosticated that it would cost only about 1 per percent of global GDP. Increased energy efficiency and conservation are important steps on the way to self-sufficiency. Renewable energy is not the cure for all of humanity’s problems but is clearly, sooner or later the solution for some of the biggest challenges we are facing. With the assistance of the right political incentives and an enlightened public, taking the path to energy autonomy is possible today - politically, technically and economically.

‘

Renewable Energy undoubtedly has a large role to play in solving these problems. It will be available as long as we live on this planet, it is sustainable and ecological and will contribute to world peace and development,

’

Nuclear Power anyone ?

by James Patterson I set off into Google in search of answers, hopeful as to what I might conclude but with every intention of keeping an open mind. For it is true that at the outset I had my prejudice about nuclear power, despite the assurances of the British government and even the concession by certain prominent environmentalists that it is necessary in the campaign against global warming. Though armed myself only with a layperson’s knowledge of the nature

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...some sources quote the death toll of the Chernobyl disaster to date as 500 000; others 56.

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of this power source, I had some serious reservations as to whether the world should embrace it as a friend and ally in facing its great challenge…

The country of Great Britain currently boasts 14 nuclear power plants, which together provide 21% of the nation’s electricity needs. But alas many are on their last legs, with half due to close by 2010 and all but one (Sizewell B, in Suffolk) by 2023. The government announced in mid January this year that a new generation of “clean, secure and affordable” nuclear plants would be built in the UK to replace those due to be decommissioned. Construction and

planning taking typically around 10-15 years, the first is planned to be operational by 2017. It is worth noting that none of the proposed sites are in Scotland and the SNP-led administration up here has vowed to keep it that way. So, on these shores, nuclear power is a topical issue indeed. In a world of global warming and insecure, increasingly expensive oil and gas some see nuclear as a viable fossil fuel alternative that is tried and tested, low carbon and safer than it was twenty years ago. Others see it as an obsolete liability whose dirty secrets have been kept from the public eye by high-priced PR. Others see it as an undesirable necessity in the face of something much worse.

Though a word limit prevents a full description of the nuclear process being detailed in this article, between them the BBC news website and Wikipedia pretty much have it covered. Beyond these hard facts, however, nothing is as it seems, with many both pro- and anti-nuclear websites being guilty of clouding the evidence with exaggerations, inaccuracies and downright lies. For example: much as I angrily object to the likes of British Energy and “Environmentalists For Nuclear” calling nuclear power “emission-free” (keep reading), neither am I too keen on various anti-nuclear voices citing high levels of CFC and substitute gases (up to 30 000 times as potent as carbon dioxide in causing the greenhouse effect) released during the enriching and cooling process as a reason

against it, when a bit of reading reveals that the CFC-intensive method of enrichment is now largely obsolete, with centrifuging being more common nowadays. Likewise some sources quote the death toll of the Chernobyl disaster to date as 500 000; others 56.

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Andrew Brown, head of the media team at EDF, which runs 59 nuclear plants in France, is none other than the wee brother of Prime Minister Gordon.

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Equally misleading as both these voices can be, it cannot be denied that one side holds more power than the other. The nuclear industry has a turnover of billions of pounds that serves as a powerful vested interest to politicians and the media, not to mention pays a few sophisticated lobbyists to swing legislation here and there. The Labour government, as a case in point, is awash with connections to these people. Colin Byrne, former Labour chief press officer, is the head of the UK arm of the PR company which lobbies for British Nuclear Fuels Ltd. Alan Donnelly, who used to be the Labour

“Nuclear power will help us to meet our twin energy challenges: ensuring secure supplies and tackling climate change” -John Hutton: UK Business Secretary, January 2008

“We have no time to experiment with visionary energy sources; civilisation is in imminent danger and has to use nuclear - the one safe, available, energy source - now or suffer the pain soon to be inflicted by our outraged planet” -Professor James Lovelock: scientist, environmentalist & author of “The Gaia Hypothesis”

leader in the European Parliament, is the head of the PR firm Sovereign Strategy which represents one of the worlds largest nuclear contractors, Fluor. And Andrew Brown, head of the media team at EDF, which runs 59 nuclear plants in France, is none other than the wee brother of Prime Minister Gordon (a fact which is hilariously not mentioned in his profile on EDF’s website)3. Given this evidence, it seems supremely dodgy that the government’s public consultation for the 2006 Energy Review, which exalted nuclear power and paved the way for its UK resurgence, was ruled by a judge to be “misleading”, “seriously flawed” and “procedurally unfair” after a legal challenge was mounted by Greenpeace. Honest mistake? Get out.

Against such political clout, all the antinuclear side can do is come back with the stronger arguments, which is why the likes of Lovelock speaking out in favour of nuclear bothers me a lot more than anything the government might say. And so, with my remaining word allowance, I abandon all pretence of objectivity and unapologetically make the case against nuclear power. In bullet points.

-Nuclear is not “emission free.” The uranium lifecycle, taken as a whole – including mining and transportation, produces 2040% as much CO2 as the same amount of electricity produced by gas.

-The time until the plants are operational is 10-15 years (and they are notoriously

prone to delays). Much energy could be saved in the meantime with renewable sources, which are very quickly operational.

Considering the timescale of global warming, this is imperative.

proposed bunkers up to 2km underground do not protect against inevitable corrosion of casing over thousands of years it takes for high level waste to become safe, not to mention the risk of earthquakes.

-Nuclear power – including building, decommissioning, mining and storing

-Figures are ambiguous about security of UK energy supply but a diverse range of renewable sources, given proper investment for research and construction, combined with a great effort to cut electricity consumption has the potential to meet out energy needs. Any shortfall can be covered by fossil fuels meantime (with research into making these technologies cleaner) rather than committing to these nuclear projects anew.

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The nuclear industry has a turnover of billions of pounds that serves as a powerful vested interest...

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waste – is expensive and permanently diverts private and public funds away from renewable energy. Though the government says it will not subsidise the new nuclear plants, no new plant has ever been built without some form of state assistance (guaranteed returns, tax breaks etc.). They are simply not profitable enough.

-Nuclear is not a global solution. Small and/ or poor countries lack the finances and regulatory measures; “unstable” countries will not be permitted by US, UK, UN etc. to enrich uranium for fear of nuclear weapon manufacturing.

-No adequate solution has been devised for the storage of nuclear waste. Even

-Another Chernobyl is not thought possible with modern reactors, but low-level accidents at nuclear plants can be very damaging. And there is always the threat of target by terrorists, no matter who says the reactors are impenetrable to Boeing 747s.

My primary concern is that nuclear plants are being built for reasons other than the benefit of humankind in the face of global warming and that resources which could go towards truly sustainable solutions are being thrown away. Should the new British nuclear plants go ahead, it is very important that the government make good their claim of no subsidies to the nuclear companies and use those saved funds to invest in renewable sources and make them their gold standard in electricity production.

Bright Ideas!

BRIGHT IDEAS! Match the size of the ring to the size of the saucepan or you will be paying to heat the air.

Gas flames should only heat the bottom of the pan (not the sides).

Switch off appliances such as microwaves, TVs, videos, stereos, and computers, as they use energy when they are left on standby. A staggering 85% of the energy used by the DVD player is consumed when it is not actually in use.

Defrost your fridge regularly to keep it running efficiently and cheaply. If it seems to frost up quickly, check the door seal. It makes sense to avoid putting your fridge next to an oven or boiler. If possible, keep the freezer in a cool room or garage.

Avoid tumble drying – dry clothes outdoors or on a drying rack when possible.

Rechargeable batteries cost about twice as much as conventional ones but can be used hundreds of times.

Unplug equipment e.g. mobile phones, shavers and electric toothbrushes— once they are fully charged, otherwise they will keep drawing electricity.

When washing up or running a bath turn the thermostat on your hot water tank down to 60c.

This is a comfortable temperature for most people.

An ordinary shower uses just two fifths of the water for a bath.

In contrast, power showers use as much water as a bath and sometimes more.

In hard water areas, you need to deal with limescale to keep your kettle working efficiently for longer. At least twice a year, soak the element overnight in vinegar.

Washing clothes at 30 degrees can be just as effective for a normally soiled load.

Turn down your thermostat and immersion heater temperature by one degree – the savings will be significant and you are unlikely to notice the difference. (Wear extra clothes!)

Use a lid on saucepans, so the contents heat more quickly and you use less energy. Pressure cookers, steamers and microwaves save energy.

To get more tips, go to http://www.greenpeace.org/ international/campaigns/ climate-change/take_action/ your-energy

Run your washing machine or dishwasher (lucky buggers) with full loads.

Most important of all: Be politically active and have a say (even if that only means voting).

cut me out and keep me on your fridge!

Loyalty Lovin’ A message from VPS Adam Patrick

Sports Union Elections 2008

To all sports club members!!! I hope you have all noticed the Take one for the Team flyers around the Union showing you what you can use your loyalty cards on and what the benefits are. This will hopefully make you lot remember to pull them out your wallet when spending money in The Union.

Deadline for Nomination Form: 2pm Friday 22 February

We are committed to spending more money on your teams over the next few months and so I need you guys to let me know how to spend your money!! Already a few teams have come back to me and we have used their money to pay for laundry, kit, fuel and specialist equipment.

Positions available include:

We at DUSA know that every club is different and what one team wants wont apply to another team but if you come and see me or e-mail me at vps@dusa.co.uk and we can discuss what to spend it on!

Hustings Monday 25 February Elections Thursday 28 February

President Vice President (Sports) Vice Presidents (Events) Honorary Secretary Website Developer Intramural Officer Minibus Officer

There’s not long left in the year and this loyalty money needs to be spent on you guys so my message to every team is:

For more information on any of the positions and what each role entails, visit the Sports Union Office located in The Union at Level 4 stairway.

Make sure you use your loyalty card in the Union and you WILL get money to support your club!!!!

(Job descriptions are in draft format and subject to change)