Issue 17 Wednesday 15.10.08
Inside... News & Comments Pure FM shortlisted for national awards Four arrested after Guildhall brawl Purebred dogs rejoice!
Life & Style Rag round up Student Depression Englishman in France Pedants’ Rant
photo: Jacob Leverett
Record breaking week at Union
Arts & Ents
Portsmouth students have broken new records in their first two weeks at the Union. Freshers’ Fortnight, as always, saw a large number of both new and old students coming to the Union in unprecedented numbers. 1st October’s Purple Wednesday saw the highest number of people ever to pass through the Union's front door in one night, with 2995 people visiting the Union. This beats the record set on 30th September 2006, when
2873 came to the Union in one night. Thinking that the record had been set at a new all time high, it was even more of a shock when the record was smashed again the following Wednesday; this time 3067 of you decided to visit us in one night. Can we beat it again this week? Only time will tell. On Monday 6th, Smurfs took over Portsmouth! 1069 of you decided to don your blue and white and visit us for our world record attempt. There
has never been a more comical sight than the University's intersite bus pulling up to Cambridge Road with only Smurfs on board! But it was worthwhile - the record was smashed, with Portsmouth now holding the unofficial title for the most people taking part in a Smurf World Record attempt. What next? Oompa loompas? Mr Men? Watch this space. 4th October saw Ricky Whittle (aka Calvin from Hollyoaks) performing live
on stage. Over 300 of you queued up for his autograph afterwards lining the corridors of the bridge and extending all the way down to the Lux entrance. A record 200 people participated in the Union’s Sunday quiz, proving your wit and intelligence against our resident quiz masters Rajesh and Steve. With more to come, we’ll see you soon at the Union. Check out the photos at upsu.net/gallery or e-mail ideas for new events sociallife@upsu.net
Interview: Glasvegas
News » University
News » Health
News » Events
Competitons
Uni Chancellor releases book
Health officials target students
Live debate to be held at uni
Want to write for Pugwash News?
Sheila Hancock, the University Chancellor, has released a new book which documents her life since the death of her late husband, who passed away in 2002. The book, 'Just Me', is not only a book about moving on, but it is also about looking back and looking forwards. Whether facing down burglars and airline staff, making friends with waiters and taxi drivers, unearthing secrets in Budapest, getting arrested in Thailand, exulting in the art of Venice or searching for a decent cup of coffee in Dorset, Sheila covers it in her book. As part of the promotion Sheila had a Q&A session at The New Theatre Royal, you can watch and listen to it at tinyurl.com/4fpx8h
"Something for the Weekend" is a campaign by Portsmouth health officials, which aims to raise awareness of sexually transmitted infections among adults in the city to encourage condom use. The campaign will be targeting city centre shoppers, university students across campus, and football supporters as well as hitting the bars and pubs to reach weekend revellers. Free condoms were distributed at Freshers Fayre and Purple Wednesday as part of the campaign.
The Portsmouth Business School will be hosting "Any Questions?". The Radio 4 debate is known for its lively discussions between leading public figures. The event will take place on Friday 1 October between 1845-2100 and will be being transmitted live on Radio 4 between 20:00-20:50 Students and staff are encouraged to attend and put any questions that they have to the panel of experts and public figures. Admission is free, but by ticket only. Please register for your ticket from the Uni's events office at the email address below.
Pugwash News / Purple Wednesdays is the Union’s student newspaper. If you have something to shout about, from burning issues to match reports, comment to features, or you want to photograph, design or help lay it out, get in touch!
For more information on sexual health check out page 6
E-mail: events@port.ac.uk
Film: Doomsday
Singles: CSS, Keane, Wild Beasts UPSU Media
For more information, see: upsu.net/p/2166
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Pugwash News Wednesday 15th October 2008
News
Editors
The Bank of England, where all eyes are focused in the hope that the worlds’ financial situation will improve
Photo of the Fortnight
Jacob Leverett Editor
pugwashnews@upsu.net
Peter Allsop Design Editor
To be Elected Life & Style Editor
To be Elected Head of News
Tallie Kane Arts & Entertainment Editor
Laura Patricia Copy Editor
Ben Endley Sports Editor
paperdesign@upsu.net
news@upsu.net
copyeditor@upsu.net
lifestyle@upsu.net
artsents@upsu.net
sportnews@upsu.net
Sub Editors Design To be elected
Arts and Entertainment To be elected
News To be elected
Sports To be elected
Life and Style To be elected
Contributors Johnny Bell, Caz Bird, Fred Bradley, Rob Cheeseman, Christopher Francis Clifford, Lauren Evans, Marie Gomes, Chris Hewitt, Peter Hooley, Oliver Laurenson-Gore, Simon Joyce, Chicos Malone, Gamel Oki, James Phillips, Luke Simmonds, C Spackman, Oliver Styles and Steven Topazio.
Round Up
Best of the Web With thanks to: Ryan Ayling, Mike Burt, Dan Brooks, Andy Donohoe, Dan Hewitt, Christine McCann, Johnny Mills, Gav Pearse, Dom Phillips and Tom Worman.
Each week we have a brief scan through other student publications
Student-Direct UMSU’s new ‘non-gendered’ toilet facilities have become an international talking point.
Glasgow University Guardian Glasgow University Union is under threat as the Board of Management looks set to declare bankruptcy
Varsity The police whistle is returning to Cambridge after thirty years.The whistle, not used in Britain since 1975, will combat errant cyclists flouting traffic laws.
Nouse A member of University staff has voiced their concerns over the high level of security deployed at Heslington Hall during a protest about building opening times.
UPSU Galleries We’ve changed our galleries for the better. See the new flickr galleries from Freshers Fortnight at:
Union Card Registration Did you sign up to a sports club or society at Freshers Fayre? If so you need to register online and collect a card
upsu.net/gallery
upsu.net/register
Games Arcade It’s been a long lost section of the website for sometime, now it proves a distraction for many hours of each day!
Reuters World in Pictures The best photos in the world from News, Entertainment, Sports and Technology - well worth a look.
upsu.net/games
reuters.com/news/pictures
Diary Slick RnB Night @ The Union Thursday 16th October Time: 7 pm
Sunday Quiz @ The Union Sunday 19th October
Students Union Council Thursday 23rd October Time: 5 pm
Dance & Indie @ The Union Friday 17th October Time: 11 pm
BAR FTSE Tuesday 21st October Time: 7 pm
Slick RnB Night @ The Union Thursday 23rd October Time: 7 pm
UV Party @ The Union Saturday 18th October Time: 7 pm
Course Rep Council & Elections Wednesday 22nd October Time: 2 pm Function Room 2
Malibu Vibe Friday 24th October Time: 11 pm
Pugwash News & Purple Wednesdays
News » Local
“Small Print”
Contact Us
Hollow victory for the UK’s armed forces
Produced fortnightly by the University of Portsmouth Students’ Union (UPSU). Printed by Quotemeprint - www. quotemeprint.com, 0845 130 0667, and printed on 100% recycled paper. Pugwash News & Purple Wednesdays bears no allegiance to any political party and discriminates against no-one.
To get in touch with the Pugwash News & Purple Wednesdays team, please visit upsu.net/newsdesk, e-mail us at newsdesk@upsu. net, call us via the Union’s Media & Publications Officer at: 023 9284 3657, or visit us at The Student Centre, Portsmouth Students’ Union, Cambridge Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 2EF.
You can download back issues of Pugwash magazine and Pugwash News online at: www.pugwashmag.com
Errors & omissions: while we take every care to verify our content, we may occasionally make mistakes. Please contact us using the details above to report any inaccuracies or mistakes.
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The government has responded to just under a 1000 people who petitioned for HMS Victory to remain an assett of the Royal Navy. 980 people signed the petition on Number 10’s website after the Ministry of Defence announced it was to review all funding options for the warship. Downing street has said “We feel it is important to ensure that petitioners are aware that HMS Victory will remain part of the Royal Navy”. A recent report commissioned by Tory leader David Cameron and conducted independently concluded: “[We] shall be indicting Gordon Brown for how he has let down the armed services, both as Chancellor and as Prime Minister. He has refused
to release funds, our soldiers haven’t been given the right kit and it has cost lives. The kit issue was down to money and the money was down to the man who is now Prime Minister.” The same report also concluded that lack of funds were responsible for the commissioning of thin skinned Landrovers, which have up until now resulted in 62 deaths. In light of these revelations, the question arises as to how important the HMS Victory is to the nation? Could not it be given to a trust, tourist board or private buyer for public display? Given the losses being suffered by our Armed Forces, should Downing Street make it a priority for their own political purposes? -PH
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Pugwash News Wednesday 15th October 2008
News
Pure FM shortlisted for National Awards “We’re in this together, and we’ll come through this together.” So says George Bush about the current credit crunch and global financial crisis; he has promised Americans that their government is going to work “aggressively” to steady the economy. They have pledged $700 billion (£410 billion) to support the banks, and, along with other world powers from the G8 countries, have outlined a series of long and short term aims at both national and international levels to encourage the global economy to regain stability. A UN refugee agency has reported that approximately 100 migrants are feared to have drowned in the Gulf of Aden. They were attempting to flee from war torn Somalia to Yemen, but were thrown overboard by smugglers on the same stretch of water. UNHCR estimates that at least 230 people have lost their lives this way in 2008; pirates board their escape boats and force them overboard with violent actions, giving them little choice - either die in the hands of the smugglers or risk the sea.
Pure FM radio's dedication to portraying a positive brand has led to the student run station being recognised for a national award. The prestigious award for Marketing & Branding demonstrates the hard work that the stations volunteers put in. Many past winners of Student Radio Awards have gone on to become big names within the UK radio industry; most notable of late is Greg James, (Winner - Best Male 2005), who now presents the early breakfast show on Radio 1, and Philippa TJ, who now works at 6 Music. Fred Bradley, Pure FM's Technical Manager said "Pure FM has only been a member of the Student Radio Association (SRA) for a few years and this is the first year that we have entered ourselves for an award." He was pleased to add that "We have been nominated for Best Mar-
keting and Branding. Many will know that at the beginning of last academic year, we spent a lot of time, money and effort on a complete re-brand of the station, meaning that everything had to change. The fact that we have been nominated is a credit to those who put in their hard work to make this re-brand successful." The Student Radio Awards are part of a UK awards scheme celebrating talent within the UK student radio industry, held annually since 1996 by the Student Radio Association and supported by BBC Radio 1. Other student radio stations that Pure FM are competing against in this category are: Smoke Radio (Westminster), Fly FM (Nottingham Trent), 1449AM URB (Bath), and Insanity (Royal Holloway). It's a tough crowd to be a part of, with URB as the current holders of the award.
This year's awards are taking place at the IndigO2 venue in London on Thursday 6th November. They will be chaired by Radio 1's Huw Stephens and hosted by Drivetime’s Scott Mills and The Chart Show’s Fearne Cotton. Pure FM have been continuing their hard work in marketing, introducing “Pure FM Presents...”, a series of outside broadcasts held outside of the Union, at venues such as Langstone Student Village bar, Jongleurs and Bar Bluu. Hard work is also being undertaken in all aspects of the station output, with a view to nominations for more awards in years to come. Pure FM will undoubtedly be taking a large presence from the current and last year's teams to represent. So keep all your fingers crossed! -FB Listen to PureFM at: purefm.com
Putin has received an unusual 56th birthday present: a tiger cub. The feline, who will live in a zoo, has not been given a name yet, but it is reported that he is considering calling her Mashenka, which is Russian for Sweetie. Pure FM Committee 2008/2009
photo: Peter Allsop
News » Crime
Purebred dogs rejoice!
Four arrested after Guildhall brawl
The British Kennel Club (KC) has finally announced plans to review the standards of every pedigree dog breed in Britain, with the aim to resolve issues of genetic disease and ill health due to breeding methods and practices. This move will be welcomed by the canine press and animal rights groups, who have been calling for such an action for over five years, seemingly unheard by the KC, who up until now have been happy to ignore the issue. It has long been accepted by people in the dog world that some breeds are bred more for looks then temperament or physical soundness,
A 105 year old woman in America has recently claimed that the secret to her longevity is her decision to remain celibate. “I’ve always had lots of platonic friendships with men, but never felt the need to go further,” she says.
The title weapon from the Bond film “The Man with the Golden Gun” has been stolen from the prop studio where it was stored. It is estimated that the item is worth £80,000, and the studio are hoping it will be recovered when the thief tries to sell it.
News » Animal Welfare
Laura Patricia
A Burmese python has exploded after trying to swallow an alligator whole in Florida. This unusual clash has been written off as a lose/lose battle between two of the deadliest swap predators.
Green fingered inmates from a Cardiff prison have won a £1000 voucher for luxury bathroom goods and fittings in the Britain in Bloom contest. It is not yet decided whether they will be allowed to redeem their prize.
North Korea is reportedly preparing to launch ten short range missiles. It is thought that these launches are for test purposes only, but the South Korean military is apparently on alert. This is not the first time that test missiles have been fired (seven were let off in 2006), but due to political circumstances their actions are being analysed in a variety of ways, and the world will be watching the the events closely. Finland’s ex-president has been awarded this year’s Nobel Peace Prize for his work as a peace negotiator. The Nobel committee praised Mr Ahtisaari “for his important efforts, on several continents and over more than three decades, to resolve international conflicts”. The 71 year old, who will receive a gold medal, diploma and approximately £800,000 as his prize, said he was very “pleased and grateful”.
A couple in Cambodia have cut their house in half to avoid divorce proceedings. The husband, who fought with his wife of 40 years because she supposedly neglected him while he was ill, has removed his portion of the property.
but it took a BBC Documentary to force the KC to admit that this is the case, and that steps need to be taken to change this. Examples of breeds that have suffered at the hands of humans include the Pekinese (which often has breathing problems due to its excessively flat face) and the Bulldog (which struggles to give birth naturally due to grossly overlarge heads and tiny hips caused by exaggeration). Other breeds have problems because of unscrupulous breeders who breed for profit with little care to the wellbeing of the dogs. Hopefully in future we will start to see healthier, more natural specimens of dog breeds, with increased quality of life and longer lifespans.
Luke Simmonds
Police are investigating what has been described as a public order incident that occurred on Guildhall Walk in Portsmouth during the early hours of Wednesday 8th October. A Police spokesperson stated that they believe the incident began outside Walkabout Bar at around 2:40am. The exact cause or circumstances of the altercation is not known at this time, but it is believed to be a conflict between a large number of people; as a result a 21 year old man has suffered head injuries and was being treated at the local Queen Alexandra Hospital.
Four men were arrested following the fight and were being held for questioning by Police; they are two people aged 25 and 21 from Essex, a 23 year old from Fareham and a 19 year old. A cordon was in place from the passageway between the Walkabout and Yates public houses, right across to the opposite side of Guildhall Walk whilst forensic officers and detectives examined the scene. The cordon was lifted at around 11:30am on Wednesday and traffic was allowed through, after council contractors had cleaned the area. The incident and evidence are currently being investigated by the authorities. A Portsmouth student, who does
not wish to be named, told Pugwash News, "I came out of Babylon and walked down towards Wetherspoons. I saw two groups of people fighting in the road. It looked like it just started, as the police weren't there yet." The police arrived soon afterward, and took action to break up the parties. Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident and are also examining CCTV footage. It is not known if any students were involved in this incident, as investigations are still at an early stage. Anyone who witnessed the fight is asked to call Hampshire Police on 0845 045 45 45 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
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Pugwash News Wednesday 15th October 2008
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Pugwash News Wednesday 15th October 2008
Life & Style
Looking for part-time employment for the start of term? Are you looking for employment for the start of term? Employers are currently being contacted about parttime vacancies which are suitable for students and they will be emailed to the Job Shop over the next few weeks. Most students will find it difficult to look for employment until they have their timetable to see when their free hours or early lectures are. Throughout October, visit the Job Shop at the Students’ Union and collect the Employment Bulletin with details of the latest jobs or take a look at the jobs on the noticeboards. Are you a returning student? Then log onto the Job Shop online at www.upsu.net/jobshop and have a look at the current vacancy details. Are you a new student? Then come along to the Job Shop at the start of term and check out the current vacancies on the Job Shop noticeboards. Once you have enrolled at the university and registered online for a NUS card (which will be available from the 29th Sept) you will be able to login and see all the vacancy information online. Looking for part time employment? Are you a current or new student at the university? Jobs Fair on the 16th October between 11am-3pm for part-time vacancies. This event is for students only. Student Associate Scheme Are you interested in finding out about gaining teaching experience in a school? And being paid £40 per day for a 15-day placement? This scheme involves working alongside experienced teachers, offering students a chance to gain some first-hand experience of what a career in teaching involves. The scheme is particularly keen to hear from students studying courses in or relating to maths and science, as well as students who have completed A levels in these subjects. There is an open evening for the Student Associate Scheme on Monday 20th October at 6.00pm.
upsu.net/jobshop/jobs/J0000542
Weekend Staff Day Lewis Pharmacy are currently recruiting a weekend assistant to work in their Pharmacy in Gosport. To work early (8am-3pm or 9am2pm) and late (3pm-11pm or 2pm7pm), shifts every Saturday and Sunday. This is on a rota basis. Uniform will be supplied and wages will be negotiated upon successful appointment of the above position. The pharmacy is a five minute walk from the Gosport Ferry. upsu.net/jobshop/jobs/J0000546
Sales Assistant Ghost are currently recruiting a sales assistant to work in their busy Gunwharf store. 6 months strong retail experience is required. The candidate will need to provide a high level of customer service, maximising sales, cashiering and replenishing stock. upsu.net/jobshop/jobs/J0000545
Customer Service/ Sales Advisors Workshop recruitment are currently recruiting part time Customer Service/ Sales Advisors to work in the centre of Portsmouth. The position would involve working 2-3 evenings and every other Saturday, with overtime available. upsu.net/jobshop/jobs/J0000541
RAG Roundup Lauren Evans
Wow, what a manic Freshers' week! It has been non-stop for all clubs and societies, but this time has been particularly busy for RAG. We had a huge number of people come visit us at Freshers' Fayre and had just under 300 people sign up for RAG, which is triple the amount that signed up last year, so it's a good start! Firstly, it is important to explain what RAG actually means. It stands for Raising and Giving. We raise money and awareness for three charities throughout the academic year. Two of our charities this year are Hamp-
shire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance and Women's Aid (a domestic abuse charity.) The third charity needs to be voted for by YOU, the students. Simply go to www.upsu.net/rag/vote and vote from a short list of charities. Our next event is an Open Mic Charity Night being hosted by the Music Society. The event will be taking place in Wiltshire building, studio 1 on Wednesday 22nd October at 8pm. It's just £3 entry. Comedy, music, writing, poetry, anything goes here with all amps and mics provided. If you're interested in getting involved with this then please send details to tom.harrison@upsu.net.
A Pedant’s Rant Laura Patricia
As Copy Editor for UPSU student media, my job is to “red pen” – yes, it’s a verb - our website and magazine, as well as this fine publication. I have the task of translating Pugwash into English, finding every bit of missing or superfluous punctuation, and trying to make sure that not only is everything spelled correctly, but that it makes sense too. Before you brand me a complete nerd, let me explain that this is actually a legitimate job and that we’re everywhere in the world of publishing. (Let me also iterate that I am very far from perfect, so please don’t email me nitpick-ly pointing out the few mistakes I’m sure I let slip into this issue. I’m only human, and you should see the text before I get my hands on it!) Now, most people have a basic grasp of the English language, but stumble on all the different rules and refinements of it. After all, its is recognisably the most difficult and confusing language in the world. However, in this day and age, especially at University level, it is unacceptable (to my mind anyways) to not possess the ability to at least form coherent sentences. I aim to use this new regular slot in Pugwash News to educate you about the proper use and eccentricities of the English language. So, having explained myself, and probably having put half of you off before you’ve even got to the point
of this article, let me introduce this issue’s pet peeve: the misuse of the word “literally”. This is a word that you never really think about using, yet seems to come up an awful lot in everyday conversation and is often seen gracing the public media. However, like the word “bastard”, its original meaning seems to have become skewed - either that or people just like using words that sound fancy without having any real idea what they are really saying. To clarify, the word “literally” is defined as “using or interpreting words in their most basic sense”. Medusa in the old legends literally turned people to stone. It’s not a simile or a metaphor; she looked at them and they actually physically changed to stone. So, if you are “literally killing yourself laughing” or if it is “literally a case of sink or swim”, you should be in the process of dying of hilarity or standing in the middle of a large pond. You can be figuratively dying of laugher or find yourself in a scenario where you will either succeed or fail, but to be literally doing either would be a feat in itself. So, the next time you tell someone your head is "literally about to explode", stop and think what you’re saying. It may seem like I'm being a bit anal about all of this, but the point of language is being able to express yourself clearly and eloquently. English is the most beautiful and expressive language in the universe, and I hate to see it being used and abused and misunderstood. (And, like Frasier Crane, I don’t do this to be popular...)
Student Depression: don’t be afraid to ask for help The stigma surrounding depression, and simply feeling depressed, can make it almost impossible for sufferers to seek help when they need it. Pugwash News takes a look at how you can cope with this issue. In addition to the University's counselling services, there are a number of websites available offering advice and support to students suffering from depression. Students Against Depression is one of these websites, providing help and guidance for students suffering from all forms of depression, as well as providing information for friends of students who are concerned about their friends' welfare. Here, a Portsmouth student writes about their experiences during their first weeks of university: "Was it really two years ago? Was I one of those scared, bleary-eyed, penniless Freshers wandering around with no idea what was going on or who anyone was? Contrary to what I thought at the time, I wasn't alone. It's generally accepted that the period after the initial buzz of Freshers' Fortnight is one of the most depressing and lonely. You're feeling lost in a sea of faces, lecturers are telling you that their job isn't to cuddle you and it all seems too much. "Well there are a number of ways in which I sought help, and you should too. The first was possibly the worst, the second better and the third has me back in a happy world. The thing I thought would answer all my problems would be to drink more, go out more and party more. "Oh my God how wrong was I? Now I just had additional problems, no money, work deadlines looming and a cracking headache. I decided to turn to
one of my tutors, as he was a nice guy. He had said that he was there to help and as my depression was now affecting my work, he took the time for a coffee and a cosy chat in his office, despite being three times busier than I was! "Up until this point I had always shied away from asking to talk about stuff with people because it just never seemed right; I'd just go to the pub with my mates and bitch about school, girls and getting my ass kicked at football. So my tutor telling me to go and make an appointment to see a counsellor was not helpful because it was very unlikely to happen! "Next I tried a support website which seemed less invasive, and a little bit of fun. The site, studentdepression.org, had just been relaunched and it shows people ways to help themselves, as well as guiding people through methods to help someone they are worried about." "The website made me realise that what I really wanted was to speak to someone who could understand me and take the time to listen. I was surprised to realise how many people were there to help - I hadn't known that the University has its own counsellors and chaplains, people with whom I could talk through my problems, and come to see that things are a little stressful, and a little daunting, but with the right attitude and a little help from the right people, everything can get better." So, never be afraid to speak up and ask for help if you think you need it. Alternatively, you can book a counsellor in confidence on 023 9284 3157 or free from your halls on 3157. The University's Chaplaincy team are also available, and can be contacted on 023 3284 3030. Finally, for 24 hour help and advice, the Samaritans are available on 08457 909090.
Never suffer in silence - your university has various support teams for you.
Life & Style » Travel
Life & Style » Union
Englishman in France
Course Rep Executive Elections
Jonny Bell
Time certainly flies when you’re in France, especially when it’s an hour ahead of England. After a rocky first couple of weeks with my accommodation and trying to sort out my studies, things are finally beginning to settle down and a routine is slowly emerging. One thing I’m starting to worry about is the amount of English speaking people I hang around with; so far I’ve learnt more about American culture than I have French! Don’t get me wrong, speaking English is a nice break after an intense two hour lecture about French accounting, but to
get a firm grip of the language you really have to immerse yourself into everything and that’s why I’ve chosen lectures that don’t have many English people in them. Seminars prove interesting as it is a matter of sink or swim and I’m not the kind of person who likes sinking. This year will probably be the best year of my life and I want something to show for it - I want to be able to say “I’ve survived in a foreign country for the best part of a year”. To anyone considering it, I would really recommend it. You meet new people everyday and learn so much about other cultures. For example, the other day I was playing football with a Mexican, Peruvian and an Iranian. I can’t re-
ally summarise my year as there’s still so much to go, and so much more to experience, but so far everything is going well and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Homesickness is an issue however; some of my friends have suffered from it quite badly but so far I don’t think its affected me too much, although sometimes I wake up and expect to be walking down Winston Churchill avenue on my way to Park building, going past Harry Law and Bateson Halls or, come the weekend, heading down to the Common on a glorious sunny day with my mates. But life is all about trying new things and every day here is a new experience and I shall savour every moment.
Steve Topazio
Are you the kind of person that actively wants to represent the students in their faculty? Are you an outgoing, opinionated and not afraid to stand up for the rights of students? Then being a member of the Course Rep Exec could be just for you. There are two places from each faculty up for grabs, and elections will take place Wednesday 22nd October, at the first Course Rep Council, in the Students' Union Function Room 2. For more information visit upsu.net/ academic or email steve.topazio@ upsu.net
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Pugwash News Wednesday 15th October 2008
Life & Style
Unwanted gifts Eat to beat Freshers’ Flu Tom Worman
This year marks the seventh anniversary review of the Government’s ten-year National Strategy for Sexual Health and HIV, and it paints a rather bleak picture of the country, with an alarming increase in the number of sexually transmitted infections in the UK. Over the past ten years the number of diagnosed cases of STI’s has worryingly continued to increase, “most alarmingly in young people” and it is these infections which have the potential to have serious outcomes both physically and psychologically, having an adverse impact upon relationships. Baroness Joyce Gould, Chair of the Independant Avdisory Group on Sexual Health and HIV, said the provision of sexual health services was “patchy across the country” and that the country was “in danger of slipping back into the dark days when clinics were to be found in Portakabins, and sexual health services were an afterthought”. This is not only disturbing, but highly worrying in the knowledge that the demand for STI clinics are increasing steadily each year. It is the student age group, people like yourself, in the 16 to 24-year-old category, who account for almost half of all diagnosed cases of STIs and unsurprisingly are frequent users of alcohol and other drugs which are associated with high numbers of sexual partners and also decrease the likelihood of using protection. Clincs have seen an overall fall
in diagnoses of gonorrhoea whereas the diagnoses of Syhillis - considered since 2002 to have been all but eradicated a decade ago - has been making a comeback in both gay men and heterosexual men and women. The biggest problem in the ‘STI family’ is the well known chlamydia, with the number of new diagnoses increasing dramatically every year since the mid-Nineties. The condition, caused by the bacterium chlamydia trachomatis, is now the nation’s number-one STI. The Health Protection Agency recently released a report showing that 9.5 per cent of women and 8.4 per cent of men aged under 25 test positive for chlamydia when screened with a simple urine test. If you are a sexually active women aged under 25 you now stand a one in ten chance of contracting the infection! The problem with this worrying infection is that it is predominantely symptom-less; some women may suffer from cystitis, vaginal discharge and lower back pain whilst men may suffer discharge and a mild irritation, leading sometimes to impaired fertility, but can transmit the infection to partners even when symptom-free. The good news is that nearly 90% of diagnosed cases will be cleared up in a week by a simple course of antibiotics. However, prevention is better than cure; wear a condom or ensure you and your partner have both been tested - the Sabbatical Office has a whole basket full of condoms you can have as many as you want - all shapes, types and flavours!
Sexual Health Posters from the NHS
Comment & Opinion » Letters
Letter to the Editor
In the last issue of Pugwash News Matt Reeves wrote an article about how Britain should reduce its CO2 emissions by using only nuclear power. I am of the strong belief that nuclear power generation is not the way forward, as it cannot support a nations energy needs. After all, nuclear power plants are far from efficient, and often have to shut down due to unexpected "outages". This is why I believe that the government needs to have a diverse energy plan, with renewable energies taking centre stage in the future of energy production in this country. Britain has Europe's best wind energy capabilities and I believe that large offshore wind farms could and should provide the answer to Britain's energy
needs. There are many myths about the efficiency of wind farms, but a single 1.8MW turbine can produce enough energy to power 1000 homes, and wind farms generate power 85% of the time, which makes it a hugely efficient form of energy. One further issue I have with Matt's article is his negative attitude to the steps being taken by society to reduce carbon emissions; even though an individual turning their washing machine to 30' may not have a direct impact on climate change, I like the idea of a society which is aware of the issues of global warming and is willing to make changes to their lifestyle to combat the problem. Regards, Chris Spackman
Laura Patricia
Pugwash News offers you advice on how to avoid the dreaded Freshers’ Flu, or, if you’ve already caught it, how to send it packing as fast as possible. Your first few weeks at uni are the most exciting of your life, and you don’t need any illnesses slowing you down or numbing your senses. There are many different theories as to what exactly causes Freshers’ Flu, from the lecturers’ idea that it’s all down to too much sex, drink and rock & roll, to the parents’ conception that it’s due to poor living conditions in Halls and is a side effect of homesickness. Most likely it’s a combination of these things and more; people come from all over the country, each bringing with them their own local brand of germ. Mix this bacteria party with stress, late nights, a probably less-than-ideal lifestyle and the fact that we all congregate in large groups often, and it’s no surprise that many of us are left feeling a little under the weather. Classic coping methods include ignoring it and hoping it’ll go away (which it won’t if you keep getting late nights and waking up with a hangover), or wallowing in pyjamas and self pity (which can help, but makes for a lonely while until you feel better). What you need is a happy medium be-
tween the two; getting out and about can perk you up, but save your energy for lectures and other necessary events. Rest and plenty of fluids (and no, Snakebite doesn’t count!) are the best prescription, as well as Paracetamol if you are in any mild pain. Classic comfort foods like chocolate, soup or tea can help, but to return to full health as soon as possible, you need to take a more methodical approach. A healthy diet is always important, but especially so when you’re sick. What your body needs are nutrients to help it fight against the invading bugs, and to repair the damage. Dietitians suggest you stock up on your “BACE Vitamins” - that’s vitamins B, A, C and E, including folic acid - and zinc and selenium. All of these feed your immune system, and keep it functioning at its best. The best foods to eat to get these vitamins are fruit and vegetables, juice, Brazil nuts and lean protein sources (chicken, fish, eggs, milk). It is also suggested you bulk out your meals with brown rice or new potatoes, to give you complex carbohydrates for uber energy. A diet like this, on top of a sufficient amount of sleep each night and a healthy amount of exercise, will make your chances of catching anything significantly less. But everyone gets sick sometimes, and we have some tricks to help you
reduce the duration of your misery. It can be tempting when you’re sick to live on ready meals or not eat at all, but the right foods can help you feel much better much quicker, leaving you to get on with life. Orange juice is a classic “superfood”, known in urban legend and proven in scientific study to chase away nasties faster then the free pizza at Freshers’ Fayre disappears. Chicken soup is another cliché, but it provides easily digestible protein, plenty of vital mineral goodness, and the warmth cheers you up, soothes a sore throat and helps clear out your passageways. Less well known as a cure for the common infliction is yogurt and probiotics; it is thought that these “good bacteria” don’t get along with their cousins from the Dark Side, and actively attack them. Caffeine can also be helpful in small doses, but don’t overdo it. Try to avoid food clogged with sugar and bad fat, as these may perk you up in the short term but actually clog up your systems and can prolong symptoms. So in short, eat healthy, feel healthy! We hope these tips have opened your eyes to an alternative to suffering, and that the next time you feel the sniffles coming on you’re prepared to do battle. Don’t forget to enjoy your time at university, but take care of yourself!
Pugwash News Wednesday 15th October 2008
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Pugwash News Wednesday 15th October 2008
Wakeboard Club
Steve Topazio and Lauren Evans
Swim Team
MIG Society
Sikh Society Ella Lawson and Caz Bird with the signed Portsmouth FC Shirt
Dance Club Performing
Shrey from Pure FM chats up a wakeboarder
Crowds watch a live performance on Stage
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Pugwash News Wednesday 15th October 2008
Roller Hockey
Football Team
Air Squadron
Fitpole Demo
Kangaroo!
Brian reads Pugwash News
Belly Dancing
Carys Rolley and Gamel Oki
American Football
Geography Society
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Pugwash News Wednesday 15th October 2008
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Pugwash News Wednesday 15th October 2008
Life & Style
2008/09 Ski & Snowboard Season
Tom Worman
The essential guide to the 2008-2009 Ski and Snowboard season already, I hear you scream? Well, actually, yes. By the time you read this, there will be barely 40 days of lectures until we break up for Christmas, so from my limited research, experience and scratchy knowledge I have tried to drag together a brief guide for you - whether a seasoned skier or a complete novice snowboarder looking to start this year I hope there will be some information in here that will be useful to you. Courses First timers can learn to ski entirely for free this season thanks to a new scheme launched by more than 50 resorts and seven British tour operators, including Crystal, Inghams, Neilson and Airtours. I always thought Freshers’ was a term coined by students but there are two “Freshers’ Ski Weeks” scheduled for Januaray 17th to 24th and January 24th to 31st. The 1,200 places include free lift passes, tuition and equipment hire worth up to £400, although there is a small catch: the opportunity to blag all this for free is open to complete beginners only and the lift passes are limited to the bunny slopes only. Not all is lost if you aren’t a complete beginner, especially if you are female. Three British pro riders (Gilly Seagreave, Sonia Shaw and Emma Rogers) are the brainchildren of a women-only snowboarding camp in the French Alps, aiming to encourage more girls to get tricking their way around the mountain slopes. Each camp is based at a luxury snowboard chalet in Morzine. Days on the mountain are complemented with evening yoga sessions to get those muscles fully flexed out, board maintenance sessions and gala dinners around a grand dining table. Our Camp is offering a Girls-only camp from January 18th to 25th for £659. For the guys who feel like they are missing out there is a mixed week from March 15th to the 22nd for £732. Find our more info at www.ourcamp.co.uk
Resorts Union Nationale des Centres Sportifs de Plein Air is an organisation designed to promote sport amongst young people (loosely defined as 18 to 40 year olds). Whilst you might expect this to be something run in France by the French, its a UK company offering breaks in Chamonix, Les arcs, Tignes and Val d’Isere, including the kit hire, lessons and passes from £418 per person per week. Whilst you can’t expect more than a bunk bed in
terms of accomodation, you get to experience the life of a seasoned skiier for a fraction of the price and, unlike most holidays, you even get transport thrown in! While I am talking about booking early and getting excited about jetting off to make your very own snowman, it can sometimes be prudent to leave it to the last minute; most skiers and are anxious about waiting until the last minute before booking a holiday, as there are some real bargains out there for those who want to hold off. January and April are the best months for good deals; for example, Ski Solutions offered a three-star full-board Chalet Panda for a week in les Arcs for just £300pp last year - half the usual price! And for those of you who have a bit of extra cash floating around, then maybe try Formigal and its four valleys in Spain (because clearly Meribel and its three Valleys aren’t nearly enough). The largest of the Spanish resorts, with over 85 miles of piste Formigal, has invested more than £79million on new lifts and things to do - it’s cheaper than Andorra and is quicker to reach, with direct transfers from Huesca airport just an hour and ten minutes flight away! New this year is Le Grand Bornand, which is a traditional quaint village, a little over an hour from Geneva Airport, with around 55 miles of pisted runs, catering for all levels and abilities. A week in this beautiful resort staying in a self-catering apartment will set you back quite a chunk of your student loan, at around £1,027 a week, including crossing using the Eurotunnel with a car.
travelling in a convoy of coaches all the way to France, dominating an entire hotel with our student antics. Skiing or snowboarding an area of over 300km of snow-covered terrain at an altitude of over 3000m, seeing some of the best vistas on this planet. Then heading to the hotel to have a massive meal, all 250 of us, before dressing up in some strange and unusual fancy dress costumes and partying until the very early hours of the morning. Grabbing a couple of hours sleep before waking up to the crisp morning mountain air, before hitting the slopes again. What’s more is it’s going to cost as little as £314, which includes travel, 6 nights accomodation, a 6 day lift pass and Wintersports insurance. For more information on the Ski and Snowboard club’s holiday get online at pompeysnow.co.uk - you have until the 12th November to book your holiday and places are limited so book now! Gear I can’t profess to be a fashionista or even one with a sense of style, but when you’re on the slopes you want to blend in with the cool kids rather than those crazy Europeans who have a habbit of wearing pink and green all-in-one ski suits, so here are a few of the essential items to be seen in this year on or around the slopes:
Ski & Snowboard Club Don’t forget our very own Ski & Snowboard club; one of the biggest clubs the Athletic Union has. They welcome anyone with an interest in the cold white stuff, from beginners to proffessionals. The club holds regular lessons over at Southampton Dry Ski Slope and for just £66 you get six hour long lessons in the lead up to Christmas that’s only £11 a lesson, including kit hire and transport! Those who are a little more experienced can head off on one of the regular trips to Milton Keynes Snow Dome on the 29th October - the first opportunity for recreational snowboarding, which will cost you just £25. For further information ,drop the committee an e-mail at:
Rossignol Womens Clana Jacket - £105
committee@pompeysnow.co.uk
Got your snow glands salivating yet? Want to be part of one of the biggest Ski & Snowboard holidays this year? Well, this is a holiday opportunity you cannot miss. The Ski & Snowboard club are heading off to Tignes from the 12th to 20th December 2008. Just imagine, 250 Pompey Students
Salomon Mens Marvel Jacket - £159.99
With the huge success of our extreme sports clubs this year comes a fantastic chance for you guys to win tickets to FREEZE on Thursday 23rd October. We gave away two tickets at our Extreme Sports Night and a further two live on Pure FM, and these will be our final two tickets for what is set to be a huge snowboarding event in London broadcast live on Channel 4. From the 23-26th October, Battersea Power Station in London will be transformed into a real life ski resort, featuring the biggest real snow jump ever made in the UK, with a live music line up to match, including The Enemy, The Automatic and Iglu and Hartly to name a few. The world’s best snowboarders and skiers will descend on the banks of the River Thames to take part in the highest profile snow and music festival ever seen in the UK. The focal point of the event is the 17m table top real snow jump created for the LG London Big Air Event, part of the LG FIS (International Ski Federation) World Cup, which will kick off the Northern Hemisphere Winter season in serious style. The International Freestyle Ski Event will once again feature the World’s best skiers on your doorstep in London. The likes of Armada team riders Tanner Hall, multiple Winter X Games Gold Medal winner, and TJ Schiller will blow minds as they also compete for $25,000. In a bid to give the UK’s home grown talent an opportunity to challenge the Worlds best, FREEZE will hold the Battle of Britain (BOB), with the top performers gaining precious FIS points, enabling them to compete in the main event, The LG London Big Air.
Whilst the sports events are more than enough to keep you entertained there is so much more on offer at Freesports on 4 FREEZE sponsored by LG. After all the sports are completed attentions will turn to the giant Kayam tent, hosting the best live music on offer in the UK including headline act the Enemy. More music acts are to be announced, but expect household names rocking out the best in contemporary music. Elsewhere on the music front, there will be genuine après ski bars bringing the real feel of the mountains to England rather than the English going to the Alps. We’re talking about conga lines, stein beers and vin chaud, all to the sounds of genuine Alpine party DJ’s brought in from the top resorts of Europe. Other attractions will include a genuine ski village with shops lining the main resort ‘high street’, where you’ll be able to pick up bargains from last year and check out the latest kit about to hit the slopes. With all this going on there is absolutely no reason to miss out on the only pre season event in the UK. Visit www.londonfreeze.com or contact our Ski and Snowboard club who are offering 10% off all tickets. To win the final two tickets, all you need to tell us is which band are headlining at this year’s FREEZE event - hint, they also played live at our Union. Send your answer via e-mail to: competitions@upsu.net. Entries close on Sunday 19th October. The winner will be chosen at random and contacted on Monday.
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Pugwash News Wednesday 15th October 2008
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Pugwash News Wednesday 15th October 2008
Arts & Entertainment
Singles CSS: Move Rating: Tallie Kane
Wild Beasts: Brave Bulging Buoyant Clairvoyants Rating:
Tallie Kane
Keane: The Lovers are Losing Rating: Tallie Kane
Album The latest release from the Brazilian electro-pop collective CSS shows some promise. The opening bars of “Move” show a subtle influence from 80’s band Talking Heads, but it just about manages to miss the mark as the rest of the single rolls on to become yet another Indie-Disco floor filler. “Move” lacks the substance of previous offerings such as the great “A la la”, but is lighter, sweeter and with
a bite which doesn’t offend the ears in the slightest. Despite this, the single doesn’t show much progression for a band that could be suggested to have caused the Electro-Disco revival of the current age, which is a shame really, but listen to the Cut Copy remix for a synth-based treat.
Wild Beasts literally sound like the Rocky Horror Show came to town, met the Rapture and erected a disco in the local park. This is an entirely good thing, and has produced a single from a band I’ll be looking out for in the coming months. With accompaniment from a simple and pounding drum beat, and obligeratory wood block chanting in the background, singer Hayden Thorpes’ voice is astounding,
running along octaves with only small indications of strain in the rasps that come from jumping with your vocal chords. I need to see this band live.
Ahh Keane, you haven’t learnt to change have you? I can see why they are popular in the mainstream; they’re easily digestable and don’t leave a noticable afterburn, but musically they seem to have decided what formula works with them, in their mind, without actually growing apart from their moping stadium-pop. However, it seems like they may have picked up a modern music magazine recently, decided a synth would keep
their music ‘on the pulse’, and asked their agent nicely to buy one ‘like the Klaxons have’. “The Lovers are Losing” attempts to add a fresh lease of life to their less than cheerful backcatalogue by picking up the tempo, but still insists on bringing those puppy-eyed, not particularly well written lyrics into the equation. It’s not actually a bad song, just very ignorable.
Out now on Subpop Records.
Out now on Domino Records
Out on October 17th on Interscope
Interview Tallie Kane
Glasvegas, a Cinderella story in this fairytale world of modern music, have set the musical world on fire with their unique brand of epic, yet sensitive rock that has caused them more than enough controversy. The band’s first two members, James Allan and cousin Rab Allan met in obvious circumstances, going on to recruit friends Paul Donoghue, and Caroline McKay, who they infamously met in their local second-hand vintage store, never having touched a drum-kit before the band got together to start becoming the band we know now. Pugwash News spoke to Glasvegas’s bassist Paul Donoghue about Oasis, knife crime, and the situational writing that creates the band’s heartwrenching material. Paul, quietly spoken with a missing front tooth, was very late getting into music, unlike leagues of musicians before him who grew up with it pouring in from every angle. “I got into music when I was about 15 -16. At that time in Glasgow, all you could get was Oasis, it was like people from round the corner coming out. I don’t think me, Rab or James would have picked up a guitar if it hadn’t had been for Oasis. But obviously, if it hadn’t had been them it could have been someone else.” Although Paul says there is a shared commonality between the two bands, and they were “a big influence in getting [Glasvegas] started”, their material is drastically different musically; only the sentiments conveyed in James Allan’s lyrics show the link between the troubled pasts of the two. Paul explains to me that James Al-
lan writes the band’s material, which, if you listen to their self titled album “Glasvegas”, deals with sensitive issues from the front-line of many Glaswegians personal wars. “A lot of the time James writes [lyrics] about situations - he’s incredibly sensitive, he always says if you see someone in the paper who’s won the lottery, think to yourself ‘What would I do if I won the Lottery?’. With “Flowers and Football Tops”, it was a murder in Glasgow that inspired him. The mother of the victim was on TV, and he thought ‘What if that was my Mother, and it was me that wasn’t coming home?’ A lot of people think all of his stuff is autobiographical, but most of it isn’t.” Throughout cultutral history, music that deals with serious issues instantly becomes immersed in the media, debated in playgrounds, classrooms and PTA boards, forever becoming controversial in the eyes of the censor. Glasvegas’ “Stabbed” illustrates the mentality of a victim of knife crime, which instantly sent hundreds of tongues wagging about the possible impact this could have on a national consciousness, but Paul is baffled by this sudden rise of awareness into a long-standing issue. “I don’t want to sound bigoted, but knife-crime has always been rife in Scotland, and I know I sound so cynical, but it’s only now that it’s reached London that it has become such a big thing. ‘Stabbed’ was the first thing that James ever wrote for the band, and that was about three and a half years ago.” In last fortnight’s issue, the topic of “Education for Leisure” (Carol Ann Duffy’s controversial poem, which was pulled from the GCSE syllabus) was raised. On asking Paul what he thought of the actions of the AQA as a person on the recieving end of the censor, he responded: “If a kid is going to go and stab someone he’s not going
Rating: James Phillips
Acid Jazz had an unfortunate death around the time Jay Kay decided he’d had enough of trumpets and turntables and decided to focus his efforts, full time, on punching cameramen. However a triumphant (albeit lowkey) reprise effort of the scene has been made by Part Time Heroes. The Southampton duos’ debut album “Meanwhile” is poised beautifully between the technical genius of The Cinematic Orchestra and the soulful vibes of 4hero. Despite a wide range of influences, the group have kept a focus on a hopeful and reflective sound for the album. The group employ the talents of Liane Carroll (London Elektricity) for “Shadowlands”. Over the last few years Soul and Jazz has become a
Rating: to do it because he read a poem. It’s just that’s the way some people are. I think when you make something a taboo it makes people want to explore it more because it’s not talked about.” Glasvegas’ next release is scheduled for Christmas, with the recording process happening across America, Hungary and Romania, finally ending up in a cathedral in Transylvania; “I think a cathedral is the ideal place for us to record, because there is so much reverb naturally.” I leave Paul downstairs at the soundcheck, But I hang around a few minutes more to get a preview of the show that I’m eager to see tonight. To read the gig review from the previous issue, visit upsu.net/news
great outlet for British talent and this track does so much to reflect this. UK Garage vocalist Laura Vane contributes vocals to the beautifully meditative “Stop, Fade, Blur”. This is where the group come truly into their own new territory. Vane brings the album to a close with an extremely soulful vocal collision on “In My Soul”. The album sheds the big hats and tracksuit liners of the scenes older days and in doing so have created a very serious mellow side within the Nu-jazz scene. More good things to come from this group! Out now on Wah Wah 45’s Records
Film Doomsday
photo: SteveB @ flickr.com
Glasvegas
Part Time Heroes: Meanwhile
Gamel Oki
Due to the unprecedented amount of A-list blockbusters that have flooded the silver screen this summer I didn’t get to see Doomsday in the cinema, so when it was released onto DVD unexpectedly early I jumped at the chance to see what I had missed out on. I can only conclude that fate stopped me from seeing this cinematic atrocity on the big screen as a way of preserving and protecting my senses from a storyline that warrants descriptive phrases such as “badly executed” and “god awful!” The initial set up is actually quite intriguing and reminded me a lot of the 28 Days/Weeks Later films. The story begins in modern day Scotland as an unstoppable epidemic ravages its locals. Britain cuts Scotland off completely (by building a thirty foot wall) and leaves its denizens to die. Fast-forward several years into the future and the “reaper virus” is back, this time in London. So what to do in such a situation? Send a ridiculously small team of soldiers into Scotland to find the survivors, and hopefully a cure it seems. So begins an arduous journey for our main character as she and her team try and find the only thing that can save
the lives of those in London. And, much like the synopsis, the film initially is fascinating, showing brutal scenes of soldiers mowing down rioting citizens and families torn apart by infection. The first thirty minutes are darkly brutal and gritty, but then all concepts of continuity and flow seem to disappear. The film continues on though, jumping and jerking its way dysfunctionally through the two hours, seemingly unable to decide on its mood or tone. Starting out as a sombre thriller, it quickly descends into a futuristic action movie, then into what appeared to me to be a bad recreation of a Ramsteinn gig (featuring a plethora of Mohawk equipped cannibalistic cyber punks), before converting into a poorly executed medieval action drama (now featuring knights on horseback) and finally ending as what can only be described as a 20 minute advert for the Bentley Continental GT (and if you’re wondering what I mean by that just think Mad Max, with Bentleys!) On the upside there’s a lot of very well done blood and gore effects from exploding heads to slit throats - and that’s about it for the upsides. A film that showed so much promise has ended up as what can only be described as a lack-lustre and self indulgent mess. But if these words are not enough to dissuade you from watching this film then please sit back, relax and enjoy a vision of the future in which military grade body armour is made of silver plastic…
Have something to say about the latest bestseller? Know your Smiths from your All Saints? Fancy yourself a dab hand at photography? If so, get in touch with the Arts & Entertainments team at: artsents@upsu.net
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Pugwash News Wednesday 15th October 2008
Sports
Behind the scenes with the ...
Cricket Committee
Here we introduce some of the characters from the AU. This issue: a quick run down of the cricket club Want to see your club committee team here? Email: sportsnews@upsu.net
Name: Dan Brooks Role: President Comment: Dan has been part of the Cricket Team for three years. When not found at the gym, he’ll either be at home with a nice cup of cocoa and a copy of Brokeback Mountain, or in the Union rallying some Freshers for Touchcup.
Tennis looking to make fresh start Chris Hewett
The Tennis Club are looking to make big changes this year as they begin a new season having seen most of their first team graduate last year. In a testament to the success of the club, a second mens team is being introduced into the BUCS leagues and a new committee is being built from scratch. The club signed up more members then ever before at Freshers’ Fayre, and the increased interest is forcing
them to implement new sessions, from pay and play beginner coaching, which they are looking to introduce before Christmas, and the option of training with the Academy during the day at Portsmouth tennis club. As well as this, the club are looking to form new partnership links with Portsmouth Tennis Club to give even more opportunities for its members. For those interested in coaching opportunities they are also looking to join forces with the UP For Sport programme to aid in gaining qualifi-
Name: Johnny Mills Role: Vice President Comment: The cheeky chappy of the committee plays first team cricket and always provides laughs whether they’re with him or at him. Name: Dom Phipps Role: Social Sec Comment: Dom, having reluctantly coughed up the cash to do a Masters, provides the party this year. His nose is known to make it to the Waterhole long before he does! Name: Dan Hewitt Role: 1st Team Captain Comment: This menace is known for his antics. Last seen in Latvia in nothing but socks, his cricket is almost as good as his drinking! Name: Ryan Ayling Role: 2nd Team Captain Comment: The only committee member to come from north of the Watford Gap. Although quiet on occasions, this ladies man comes into his own on the cricket pitch and in Lux. Name: Gav Pearse Role: 3rd Team Captain Comment: Gav has always got a grin on his face. Having retaken 2nd year many times, Gav finally made it into his final year, but don’t be too surprised if you see him back in September!
Coaches’ Corner Exercise is often an element missing from student life. Here Caz Bird tells us about some specifics, in an attempt to get us all off our duffs! This issue we’re looking at the warm up process. A warm up (and less well known, the cool down) are important parts of any physical activity, particularly in an event where the activity exceeds the normal range of movement. Warm up Warming up has the following positive benefits: 1. It helps prevent injury by increasing elasticity of the muscle due to a rise in body temperature 2. Dynamic exercises reduce muscle stiffness 3. Heart rate is increased, which leads to oxygen being more readily available to working muscles 4. It provides focus for the mind before an activity A warm up should progressively in-
tensify throughout, and include static stretches, and activities to increase heart rate and mobility. This should last for about 15-20 minutes. An example of a warm up is 5-7 minutes of jogging, skipping or cycling (try to keep it relevant to your sport). After you feel that your heart rate has increased and you feel a little out of breath, stretch thoroughly, starting from your ankles and working up to your neck. Each stretch should be held for 7-10 seconds. Then perform another 2-4 minute heart raising activity, as the stretching should have made your heart rate to return to resting level. A simple jog and 20 star jumps would suffice. Mobility of the joints is essential in a warm up to reduce the risk of dislocated or stiff bones. Swing your arms around in a circle forwards and then backwards, then move down to your hips, pulling your leg backwards and around and finally rotating the ankles around clockwise and then anti clock-
Sports » Rugby
Sports » Lacrosse
Mixed start for Mens’ Rugby
Mens’ team beaten in season opener
continued from page 16
fine support from the sidelines saw the Penguins pull away in the last quarter, scoring three tries in quick succession from Purvis, Fresher Filmer and Newbury, securing a fine 28 - 8 victory. The 4th team this year has departed from the conventional SESSA league and has been given the tough task of playing in the newly formed BUCS league. Despite having possibly the strongest 4th team UPRFC has ever had, the 4ths started out with a tough away trip to play Medway 1st XV. After an excellent break by fly-half Jamie Lynch, the 4ths scored a breakaway try, having staunchly resisted
cations and hands on experience, both voluntary and paid. The women’s team are doing equally well, holding their own in the top division in the south east and, with over 100 members, competition for this year’s teams has been strong. As well as progress on the court, the social side of the club has always been important, and they are looking to finish off their season with their biggest tour ever to Salou next April. Those interested in joining should contact the club President.
the home sides onslaught. However, Medway were not dead and buried yet, and hit back with two tries before half time. Going into the second half, the 4th’s had a lot of work to do. Unfortunately there was no heroic comeback or storybook ending, in fact the opening twenty minutes of the second half were a fairly sloppy affair, and we paid the price by giving away two soft tries. Somehow the 4ths pulled themselves together and put in some fantastic rugby for the latter part of the game and were rewarded with a try. The game ended 24 -10, however a lot of potential was shown by this Fresher-rich team.
Ben Endley
The mens’ lacrosse club opened their season with the visit from the Cardiff Harlequins. One of the favorites to gain promotion to the Premiership this year, the Welsh outfit fielded six Welsh international players in the starting ten. Pompey were looking to follow on from the most sucessful season in their history. However, they went into this game with no illusions as to the challenge facing them. Cardiff started out brightly, but were matched by a hard working, if sometimes technically weaker, Pompey defence. For the first quarter
the home side more than matched their more distinguished opponents, something that the Welsh side had not expected; suddenly they seemed vulnerable to Portsmouth’s attacking onslaught. For all their pressure and strong transitional play through the midfield, the purples couldn’t convert this into goals, only scoring on one occasion in the first half through Dan Black, who took a heavy knock in the process. Worse still, as the game progressed towards half time Cardiff started to show their class and added to the scoreline. Pompey went in at half time 7-1 down, but certanly not dead and buried. The third quarter, as has often been
wise (only one at a time as you might fall over!)
Cool Down After participating in vigorous physical activity, a cool down is vital in preventing fatigue and muscle soreness after an activity. The benefits include:
1. Helping to dissipate the lactic acid released during exercise 2. Reduces the risk of muscle soreness/stiffness 3. Reduces the chance of dizziness or fainting, which can come from blood pooling A cool down should include the following: 5-10 minutes light jogging or skipping, to lower body temperature, decreasing in intensity as you go on; followed by 5-10 minutes light static stretching (20 seconds minimum per stretch).
the case, was disappointing. A combination of lack of fitness in midfield and unfamiliarity within the makeshift defence allowed Cardiff to put the game beyond Pompey. The three additional goals for the homeside from Carl Joyce, CJ Millington and Liam ‘Fresh’ O’Mahoney were little more than consalation. The final score was a 22-4 reverse, however the men’s team will be glad to have played arguably their most difficult game early on and will look foreward to welcoming Cheltenham, another strong team, next Saturday. If you would like to find out more about Lacrosse, visit our website: portslacrosse.com
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Pugwash News Wednesday 15th October 2008
Sports
Ski & Snowboard success Chicos Malone
The 1st and 2nd October brought one of the biggest events for any Fresher starting at the university, Freshers' Fayre, and the difficult choice of deciding which clubs or societies to join. After a very successful previous year, the Ski and Snowboard Club were on the prowl, looking to improve on last year, with more numbers and greater talent. And you could hardly have missed us; the UPSSC committee members wore their bright orange and black T-shirts and passed out goodie bags, flyers and fresher T-shirts. With fellow boarders from the Wakeboard Club and the Skate 'n' Longboard Society next to us, we dominated the Freshers' tent and had an awesome time, talking to the
masses about the sports that we love. There was a lot of drinking and the lovely sound of ex-president Marcy Marc as the Extreme Sports DJ, making sure that we were the loudest and proudest club in Portsmouth! After two days of signing, singing, talking, shouting and drinking the UPSSC committee and helpers managed to sign up an enormous 280 members, with an additional 20+ members since then. We have smashed our target of 300 members for this year. We look forward to the year ahead of us, with major competitions, fun times on the slope, and drunken antics and tomfoolery in our socials as well... Many Thanks to all that helped out at Freshers' Fayre, especially Sherman, Justin, Jess, Poppy and Bex.
167 Days until Tour
BUCS Starting 10th October
Naked ar d n e l Ca g n i m o c soon
Ski and Snowboad celebrate their triumphant sign up
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photo: Tom Worman
Race trials Shortly after Fresher's Fayre, on a cold and very wet Sunday morning, 18 potential Skiers and Boarders waited patiently outside the Union to leave for Southampton Dry-slope to try out - and hopefully succeed in - getting on the prestigious Ski and Snowboard Race Team. The Slope was wet and fast, giving our potential racers an extra bonus to show of their speed. We had a great
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supply of more than capable boarders being given tips and advice from our Snowboard Captain Mike "Fresh" Hall. We had a fantastic bunch of skiers as well, all with amazing talent and speed. After seeing what they had to offer, I have complete confidence that both our Ski and Snowboard Race Teams will do well this year.
Sports » Boxing
Sports » Football
Boxing team go international
1st team open with impressive score
Chris Hewett
Eleven boxers flew out on Friday 10th for a three day international boxing competition being held in Denmark. After the success of last year, the team are looking to continue their momentum abroad. Boxers Michael Andrews, Terry Singh, Matt Wilcock, Mark Coombs, Michael O’Sullivan, Dan Hendy, Matt Harding, Paul Kapnesi, Ali Zaki and George Geogakakis headed out to Hillerod with coach Wayne Gardiner to represent Portsmouth Univeristy. The competition itself features over 385 boxers from ten countries around the world.
“This is a very hard competition, giving all our boxers valuable experience in preparation for the English University Championships”, says Wayne Gardiner, the head coach. Despite the intensity of the competition, the team are positive about their chances and are hoping to bring back a few gold medals to Pompey next week. Good luck to the boxers and remember to pick up our next edition and check online for a full round up of events from Denmark. Had a result to brag about? Want to know how rival clubs got on? Check all university team fixtures and results at: upsu.net/au
Ben Endley
University of Portsmouth Football Club 1st Team opened their season with an impressive away 4 - 0 derby win against local rivals Southampton on Wednesday. The game started brightly, with both teams playing good football and creating chances, and Pompey keeper Rob McClelland making a good stop to deny Southampton early on. Portsmouth then stepped up their game and the pressure eventually paid off with Heiner Albersman slotting past the impressive Southampton goalkeeper to make it 1-0. Pompey then settled into their game and
played some very impressive football, leading to Fresher Andy Younie bagging the first goal of his Uni career just before the break. Southampton came out more purposeful in the second half and were pushing for a goal, however Pompey conceeded; the whole backline and Man of the Match Richard Maltby all gave an impressive performance. Two goals in the last ten minutes firstly Tom Agate volleying into the top corner and secondly Dan Spencer stumbling past the keeper and scuffing the ball into the goal from a tight angle - finished off a great display by the whole team, in particular the Freshers, who all proved they had earned their place on the team during selection.
Intere sted in Joinin g a sp orts team ? Spea k to th e sport s offic er
Mixed start for Mens’ Rugby Oliver Styles
After a good pre-season, consisting of a win against Oxford Brookes and a tough two weeks of training, the 1st Team travelled to Bucks determined to make an impression by starting the season well. The Pompey side included a lot of new faces, giving the lineup a makeshift look to it. The result was a very scrappy match with Bucks profiting from mistakes at set pieces. Excellent build up play resulting in an early try from debutant Chris Ealey put Portsmouth on top, only for lapses in concentration to see us fall behind 10 - 5, leaving the lads with a lot of work to do. Even with good conditions Bucks failed to play with any endeavor, and negative tactics made them difficult to break down. At times the Portsmouth back line looked very sharp but all too often the last pass went to deck. A huge amount of positives can be taken though, as the score is not a true reflection of the match, and with a few more training sessions and a brush up on set pieces we will challenge anyone this year. When the first game of the season approached for the 2nd team, tensions were high prior to kick off and everyone was looking to impress. From the kick off it was obvious that Pompey’s forwards had the upper hand in both the scrum and all set plays. Good lineout play from Legge and Matt Stevens enabled the forwards to get a controlling hold on the opposition pack. At scrum time, although the opponents dwarfed the front three in size they lacked substance, resulting in their prop going off clutching his shoulder, crying like a little girl. Brunel obviously hadn’t read the rules and so uncontested scrums were forced upon the forwards after five scrum
steals in the first five minutes. Having established a platform it enabled the backs, led expertly by Rich Weymouth and Chop, to start throwing the ball around, breaking the opposition’s defense nearly every play. With half time quickly approaching, rookie Chris Morrison got sin binned for hands in the ruck. Normally a spell of ten minutes with 14 players is a hindrance, but with the 2nds in such phenomenal form they scored two tries with one less player. As the game progressed the confidence of all the players grew, especially the likes of Charlie Craig and Will Hitchcock who made some blistering breaks deep into the opposition half. The final whistle loomed and a mouth watering score was put up; final score Portsmouth 43, Brunel 3- a fantastic result. Portsmouth 3rd Team opened their season at Langstone against the Uni of the Arts. With the game kicking off 20 minutes late, the fresh new faces of the Penguins were raring to go. Early exchanges were very even, although Portsmouth missed an opportunity to score when skipper Andrew Arter sliced wide with his penalty attempt. After this the Penguins rallied together for the first time and found themselves up 7 - 0, after a fine drive from the forwards. An opportunistic Oliver Styles scored the easiest try he will ever get. As half time approached a hard fought contest ensued, with the Arts scoring only a penalty to round up the first half of this deadlocked game. The second half began with the Arts taking the upper hand and duly scoring a try in the corner. This injustice seemed to fire up the 3rds and with the introduction of newbies Gibson, Pryer and Rhodes the game dramatically turned in Pompeys favour. Some tighter play and 14 »
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Sporting Achievements: Boxing team go international 1st’s open with an impressive score Mike Burt at the Wakeboarding day at JB Ski
photo: Tom Worman
Sports » Charity
Sports » New Clubs
Write for PWs
Cheerleaders raise money for Children In Need
Try Tchoukball for free!
PWs needs your club news!
Marie Gomes
Portsmouth Uni's cheerleaders were all up bright and early for the first day of Freshers' Fayre last week, armed with pictures, DVDs and flyers, ready to make an assault on this years' unsuspecting first year students. Trying to get team spirit high as well as doing their bit, some of the girls spent Tuesday making cakes to sell at the Fayre. Luckily all the cakes managed to get sold for Children in Need, raising just over £90. The first day went a lot better than last year's recruitment and on the second the girls came flooding in wanting to join. This is a theme that appears to
be echoed across many AU teams and pays testament to initiatives put in place over the last couple of years in order to increase overall participation in AU activities Some were apprehensive at first, worried they were going to be made to do crazy jumps, stunts and cheers, but with the knowledge that some of the other girls are only just learning to do handstands and forward rolls they felt a bit more relaxed. Mixed in with all the first years, some of the old girls even managed to persuade course and house mates to join, making the group even bigger and full of close friends, ensuring a strong social scene this year.
Oliver Laurenson-Gore
One of only two new clubs to the university this year, UoP Tchoukball offers you the chance to play for free for 10 weeks, funded by Hampshire County Council in their “Return to Sport” Campaign. The one hour session on a Tuesday night will get you learning the basics of the sport and give you a chance to try a game situation. The sport has this year gained the accolade of “New Year, New Sport”, which means introducing Tchoukball to schools in Portsmouth and Hampshire. With local links to the Portsmouth Tchoukball Club in Southsea, which includes many of the Great
Britain players, we are sure to get the best training possible. With their experience and competitiveness, the UoP Tchoukball Club has the vital ingredients to represent the University at the highest level and maybe in the future at International level. It is our ambition as a club to get more University students involved, as the city has been playing Tchoukball since 1979. Please contact us via our website if you are interested in becoming a member or would like to find out more about the sport: tinyurl.com/4ct3lw
...and features, and photos, and socials, and anything else you want to tell us about your club! It’s easy to get a mention in PWs - just e-mail everything to sportnews@upsu.net, visit upsu.net/newsdesk, or come in to the Sabb Office at the Union and have a chat with us any time! For more information, see: upsu.net/p/2166