Pulse Volume 2 Edition 1

XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX

XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX

XXXXXX

32p_PULSE_Mag Limerick_240 x 170mm.indd 1

19/08/2009 23:12:09

Editorial

Your Union How to get involved in your Union 4

Two and a half months ago, when I officially began my year as Communications Officer, Aoife Breen, my predecessor, had some warnings for me. “You will cry when you do your first Pulse and your first An Focal.

It’s really really hard.”

Introductions

Find out all about about UL & ULSU 5 with these handy A-Z guides

I laughed at the time, slightly nervously, but also safe in the knowledge that Aoife had made it sound so bad that when the time came around it wouldn’t be half as bad as I expected. I was wrong. I’m not going to lie, tears were shed and sleepless nights were in abundance. All night long article ideas, typos and deadline would run through my head and they are definitely not as fun to count as fluffy white sheep.

Terminal Tips

Finn McDuffie provides 4th years with some handy tips

Who’s Who

10 Darragh Roche gives the low down on the typical UL students Mr & Mrs Milford

Our favourite couple are back with more sound advice

Now, a week later, I sit here writing my first editorial. Safe in the knowledge that all the articles have been submitted (and I didn’t write them all myself, something another exCommunications Officer, Seamus Ryan, warned me against) and I will soon be accepting a delivery of a glossy little bundle of joy. I must say a huge thanks to everyone who contributed to this edition as I know the majority of you were still on your holidays and probably didn’t want to think about anything college related.

It’s a cliché, but I wouldn’t have been able to put Pulse together without you!

32p_PULSE_Mag Limerick_240 x 170mm.indd 2-3

Ents

28 Find out which comedians will be making their way to UL this September Reviews

29 Didn’t make it to Metallica? Kelly O’Brien will tell you all about it

11

Travel

12 Find out all about Salou, Amsterdam and Limerick without leaving your seat.

First Year Memories

15 This year’s Sabbats think back to their first week in UL

Editor: Aoife Ní Raghallaigh Anyway, a big hello must also be extended to all the 1st years, and to the returning 2nd, 3rd and 4th years. If you’re reading this you’ve probably just picked up the magazine and I’m just hoping I don’t put you off reading the rest of it! Remember, this magazine is written for you so if there’s something you don’t like if there’s something you think should be included, let me know. You’re more than welcome to submit some articles too, if that’s what you’re in to!

9

Music

24 Are your band going to make it band?

Did you know any of those songs were covers?

Sub-editor: Darragh Roche Design & Printing: Impression Contributors: Finn McDuffie, Jason Kennedy, Nicole Ní Riordáin, Darragh Roche, Emma Hayward, Kelly O’Brien, Shane O’Callaghan, Mr & Mrs Milford, Ruán Dillon McLoughlin, Derek Daly, Aoife Finnerty, Fergal Dempsey, Michael Bourke, Eightball Print & Media.

Fashion

17 Find out all about this Autumn’s hot trends and about the clothes every 1st year should have Features

From self defence to Scientology, find out what our writers have been pondering

20

19/08/2009 23:12:10

n i y a s r u o y e Hav ! n o i n U R YOU This is YOUR Union, YOU say what happens.

As a student at UL you are a member of the University of Limerick Students’ Union. You decide the direction the Union goes and what you want the Union to do for you.

How is this done?

1. LET US KNOW YOUR PROBLEMS! Many students in UL have a wide range of problems that have an affect on their time in college. By talking to your Union team we can do something about it. Without hearing your problems we can’t try and fix them. So talk to your Class Rep, send us an email, call into the union or pick up the phone.

Use your voice and we will make sure it’s HEARD! 2. GET INVOLVED! Class Representatives are elected by your class to express your views at Class Reps Council.

If you’re not your Class Rep then find out who is and get to know them.

If you don’t have a Rep yet email sueducation@ul.ie and find out how to get one!!

32p_PULSE_Mag Limerick_240 x 170mm.indd 4-5

3. CAMPAIGN! SHOUT ABOUT IT! Stand up and be Counted!

Make a stand against Fee’s! Got an idea on how to stop fees returning?

Tell us!

Have an issue you want to shout about? Email sucso@ul.ie about starting a campaign.

Keep your eyes open for our next campaign and have your say.

4. GET ACTIVE! Join one of our Clubs and Societies.

None take your fancy? Set one up… email paul.lee@ul.ie and find out how.

5. VOTE! VOTE! VOTE! You get to vote for who you want to represent you. Voting will take place in late Semester 2!

An Introductory Dictionary to UL................

By Aoife Breen Introduction and revisions by Finn McDuffie

The points race is over, you’ve accepted your offer, the folks have dropped you to your new accommodation and you wait expectantly on your own for your housemates to arrive.

It’s nerve-wracking, by God it’s exciting and it’s the very first page in your life’s latest chapter. Welcome to University!

This is an alphabetized mind-spurt, highlighting and explaining a number of things you’ll see, hear about or experience in your time at UL. Alcohol Policy: A policy agreement implemented in 2002, axed by student referendum in 2007.

Please drink responsibly.

Assignments: Essays, lab reports, projects each with its own very special date. The deadline.

Generally icky and hard to avoid.

Baked Beans: Cheap, post Lodge dining. Especially good when seasoned with toast.

Banks: They all want your money, they all provide freebies and they’ll all offer you great overdraft interest rates.

6. STAY INFORMED! Check our website – www.ulsu.ie and stay up to date with all the news and ents.

Books: Here comes another booklist. But fret not!

Books can be found in the library and on occasion, people borrow them. College books are expensive so buy a photocopy card or borrow from the library well in advance of your deadline.

Also find us on Facebook and Twitter (www.twitter.com/ulstudentsunion)

Brown Thomas: Known to frighten the unfamiliar passer by on a dark night, he’s the rusty sculpture who stands in the Plaza by the library. He also likes to wear various objects of stolen clothing.

Buses: You’re quicker walking. If you wait, two will come at once.

Castletroy: The Limerick suburb where UL is situated.

Campus: One of the most beautiful in Ireland, the UL campus boasts over 200 acres of mature trees, greens, river, medieval, classical, concrete and modern architecture. It’s Ireland’s best-kept secret.

Co. Clare: That smaller part of campus, which is home to the Health Sciences Building, is actually in County Clare.

Co-Op: A UL synonym for work experience. This great opportunity is compulsory with many degree programmes at UL, in second or third year.

Deadlines: Horrible. Try to meet these or risk losing precious percenties.

Don Barry: The president of UL, our illustrious leader. You probably won’t see him very often, but if you do, ask for his autograph and sell it on ebay!

East Gate: Can be located with any good compass.

It’s probably the original entrance to Plassey House. (See White House, The below). Buses leave from the nearby car park on Fridays.

Elm Park: A residential experience.

Exams: Horrible. Happen twice a year.

Flag poles: That massive pair of over-sized snooker cues at the main entrance.

Fountains: There are several. Mind them on a windy day as they spray. The simple addition of washing up liquid leads to some very expensive extraction work. Don’t do it!

................................

19/08/2009 23:12:11

Grades: Get to know the University grading system. An A1 varies between 70% and 75% depending on your department.

Housemates: They can be the best or the worst part of your first year at University. And there’s always someone who steals your milk.

Home Cooking: Pasta, Dolmio, spoon and pot.

Yum! ID Cards: Chances are your photo was a disaster.

Mine was forever sabotaged by some senior student photographers looking for cheap thrills.

Javas: The old name for the Scholars.

Lectures: Try not to miss to many. A golden week is when you go to all of them.

Library: Constantly improving, the Glucksman is becoming more and more impressive.

Lodge, The: See ‘Housemates’ above. Replace milk with beer.

Main Building: Home to the Jonathan Swift, a mysterious theatre that goes missing from time to time.

Parking: Like the UL buses, spaces are hard to come by.

QCA: Your grade point average. Slightly confusing to us old hacks as a new scheme called ECTS is coming in this year.

RAG Week: You may have heard of it. Due to a local resident’s complaint one year, the district court banned UL RAG week. So College Week went ahead instead.

Scholars: The name before and after Java’s

32p_PULSE_Mag Limerick_240 x 170mm.indd 6-7

Ski Slopes: No, there’s no alpine sport to be enjoyed here. That’s the glass entrance of the main building, which overlooks the plaza all the way to the Schumann Building.

A toofZthe Students’ Union •

Student: You! Me! Us! Students’ Union: A team of five, full-time sabbatical officers, not to mention the wonderful receptionists, clubs and societies development officer and everybody else behind the scenes.

See the SU A-Z of services in this publication.

•

Study: Horrid. Try to avoid if possible.

Timetables: Everybody’s is publicly available.

See www.timetable.ul.ie. Makes stalking, easy!

Disclaimer: Stalking is an illegal activity.

•

Tutorials: A special time in your week where you can discuss special topics with a very special tutor. Special.

University of Limerick: See the University of Limerick Act 1989 for the finer details. http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/1989/en/act/ pub/0014/index.html

•

University Arena: State of the Art, home of Ireland’s largest indoor swimming pool.

Umbrella: Handy for dealing with the fountains and the rain. If you don’t have one, An Focal will do.

Villages: Five in total. Plassey, Kilmurry, Dromroe, Thomond and the latest addition, Cappavilla.

Weeks: There are about 14 per semester so make the most of them!

White House, The: Also known as Plassey House, this is the Italianate building with the Georgian dimensions and the Corinthian columns. The presidential and vice presidential offices are located here. Though I was never told not to go in, I don’t think it’s allowed. Worth a peek anyway!

Aoife. The SU has two. Aoife Finnerty is the Education Officer and Aoife Ní Raghallaigh is the Communications Officer. Don’t confuse them or there’ll be war.

An Focal. An Focal is the fortnightly student newspaper and is also looking for new writers. Contact Aoife Ní in the Communications Office of you’re interested.

Books. The Students’ Union runs a second hand book shop. Visit http:// ulsu.starlight.ie/bookstore/ to see if we have the book you need and then call in to the SU reception to buy it! You can also sell your old books if you don’t need them anymore.

Bikes. The SU also runs a Bike Shop where you can pick up a sweet set of wheels to get around campus. It also stocks anything else you’ll need like lights and locks. The Bike Shop is located next to Paddocks Restaurant in the old SU shop.

•

Class Representative. Every class needs at least one Class Rep to stand for them.

Talk to Aoife F. in the Education Office to find out more.

•

Clubs & Socs. Clubs & Societies are a fundamental part of the University scene here in Ireland and UL is no different. There are currently 59 active Clubs & Societies in UL.

•

Discounts, the favourite of every student. Buy your Student Travel Card from SU reception and get discounts on

travel and shopping. Don’t forget to ask in shops if they give a student discount with your UL ID card.

•

Ents. Ents is short for Entertainment, and Entertainment does exactly what it says on the tin. Ents are responsible for organising gigs and events on campus.

•

Gigs. For information about upcoming gigs and events, check An Focal, Pulse, Twitter and Facebook.

•

Hoodies. You can get a class hoodie, a club hoodie or a society hoodie. See how many you can get before the year is out.

•

I-grade. If you’re sick or have a valid reason why you can’t do an exam you can get an I-grade which means you will sit your exam at a later day.

Hopefully you’ll never need one but if you do, contact the Education Officer for the advice.

•

Lost & Found. If you’re lost something contact the SU Reception to see if a kind soul has handed it in.

Lodge. The finest nightclub in all of Castletroy. It’s an experience, to say the least.

•

•

Nitelink. Take the free Nitelink from the Stables Archway so you don’t have to walk home in the dark or the rain.

Check An Focal, www.ulsu.ie or ask at reception for the timetable.

19/08/2009 23:12:12

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Opinions. Your Union always wants to hear your opinion so if you think we could be doing a better job or have an idea you want to share, let us know! You can also let your opinion be known by writing for one of the ULSU publications.

Photocopying. Skip the photocopying queues in the library and get even cheaper photocopying in the Students’ Union. Buy your card in reception and get work away. Don’t photocopy too much though, we have an Environment to care for!

Parking. Parking on campus is crazy because there aren’t enough spaces.

Save yourself the bother of trying to find a space by buying a bike from the Bike Shop or walking with friends. Most people don’t really need to drive in, especially if you’re living somewhere like College Court.

Queues. You could end up queuing for just about anything in UL. Food at lunch, gig tickets, computers… Figure out where the quieter places on campus are so you don’t have to queue as long.

Rain. It never stops raining in UL. You think we’re joking, and we wish we were. Invest in a good umbrella or two because you’ll inevitably lose or break one. A spare pair of socks in your bag is always a good idea too so you don’t have to walk around in soggy socks all day!

Safe Cabs. You can register for Safe Cabs in the Students’ Union. Once registered you can get a taxi home with Plassey Cabs and pay in the Students’ Union the next day.

Scholars & Stables. Scholars and Stables are in the Courtyard outside the Students’ Union. They’re great for a good lunch, a quiet pint after lectures or a gig in the evening. Make sure to

32p_PULSE_Mag Limerick_240 x 170mm.indd 8-9

register as Club members (they have a Club licence, not a Bar licence) and get a sticker from reception in the Students’ Union to show you’re registered.

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Tickets. Get tickets for gigs and events from SU Reception. Ticket numbers are sometimes limited per ID card, especially for the bigger gigs, so if you’re getting a few make sure to bring someone else with an ID with you! You can also get Bus Éireann tickets at Reception for when you decide to leave Limerick.

Time of Your Life. There is no doubt that you’ll have the time of your life over the next four years but you’ll need to get out there and get involved too!

Twitter. Keep up to date with everything that’s happening on campus by following us on twitter at www.twitter. com/ulstudentsunion.

Union. Your Union works for you and the best way to make sure they’re doing that best they can for you is to get involved. Become a Class Rep, run for a Non-Sabbatical Position, write for the paper or this magazine, or just join a Club or Society!

Wet. You’ll get wet a lot. It rains all the time in Limerick. All the time. For more information see Rain.

Website. We’re launching a snazzy new website soon. Check out www.ulsu.ie for all the information you need about the Union.

Xylophone. Derek Daly, Welfare Officer, has one in his office. He just loves when you go in and play it. Especially when he has a headache. He finds it very soothing.

•

Y did I read all this?

•

Zzzzzzz

Invaluable and compelling advice for students completing their final year

By Finn McDuffie I’ve recently decided I feel like an old car. This is not because I’m becoming increasingly expensive to keep or my exterior vitality is starting to fade.

It’s because next year, I’m going to be traded in for a newer model. And I’m not the only one.

Right now, a fresh batch of Leaving Cert. students are rolling their sleeves for a budding points race.

By May, their efforts will have doubled. And that, fellow fourth years, is when we shall find our special place within the pages of Autotrader, degree in mint condition. Fingers crossed.

So while the newbies look forward to a cosy four years within the recession ‘buffer-zone’, we’ll be out on our ear scrounging for jobs in a world where pharmacies stay shut all day, Michael Jackson has died and our Finance Minister still can’t figure out what those decimal points mean. This is why I’ve come up with a number of things we can do and observe during the recession.

Number one. Go to China! You may have heard about their economy and the noodles. I’m not sure which is better for you. Probably the noodles, as China’s monthly carbon dioxide emissions remain about the same as Australian annual emissions.

At least the Pharmacies are open.

Number two. Read and understand the Lisbon Treaty! When you’re done, start looking about your pension!

Number three. Learn to play a musical instrument!

If you’re in jazz and more than ten people like you, you’re commercial.

Number four. Establish a large supermarket chain and farmers will give you a food free!

Number five. Start up your own bank! If you find you’re struggling, the government will send you a large sum of money.

Number six. Become a judge! The hours are long and the rows bitter, but at least you don’t need to worry about salary cuts.

Number seven. Go to Australia, that small colony of Irish prisoners.

‘They got surfin’ too.’

Number eight. Do a Masters! The best thing for being sad in these economic doldrums is to learn something new. And by the time you’re finished, the world should have resumed normality and the sun will be on your back.

Number nine. Protest at Corrib, for at the depths of the greasy soul of Shell, lies nothing but surrender!

Number 10. Why not strategically invade Georgia, in the interests of ‘peace enforcement’?

Number 11. Start working for British Airways!

After a month, demand a pay rise! Please send their response for print, to editor@pulse.ie Number 12. Dig yourself a coal mine and watch Bord na Mona take it from you!

Number 13. Unlucky for some, lucky for Tamiflu.

Number 14. Sign up to the dole but beware that elusive axe-wielder, McCarthy and his Bord Snip crew!

Number 15. Bring democracy to North Korea! But please familiarise yourself with the local regime before travel.

Number 16. Become an Irish TD and have your own army of advisers, a pension before retirement age, a government jet, a state car for life and the same summer holidays you enjoyed when you were five!

If all of this fails, or if you end up in a North Korean prison, at least you’ll have a long time to contemplate your many achievements and of course, those glorious days spent at UL perusing the somewhat dusty but glossy magazine you found lying under a table at Red Raisins.

19/08/2009 23:12:12

By Darragh Roche OUR beloved university is a place where individuality is encouraged and as such our student body is as diverse, colourful and vibrant as an Olympic village. To help to understand the different kinds of UL students, they can be usefully divided into a few broad categories.

The Small Towner When some people come to UL, they discover it’s the biggest place they’ve ever been. Ireland has so many small, insular towns that some students have come from a place totally unlike UL’s campus. Since UL is very much like a medium-sized town, these country folk often don’t stray far from their accommodation and class rooms. However, it’s always a good idea to wander around for the first few weeks. Getting lost in UL is quite the experience and even a person from the smallest town in Ireland will know the campus like the back of their hand after a few weeks.

The Club/Society Head Clubs and Societies form a huge part of life in UL. There’s a club for everyone and as such people are prone to get very involved. There is a natural progression from new member to committee member to out and out society patriot. Academic work, exams and even socialising can take a back seat to improving your society. The terms IV, AGM, budget points and Clubs and Socs are the common language that unites all club and society heads. There really is no better way to make friends in UL than joining a club that shares your interests. One former society president was well known for tromping around campus, head down with a look on her face that said “I’m on society business, get out of my way!”

The Classless University isn’t just about coursework, exams and lectures; it can also be about fun. Some people take this fact to the extreme. The classless are people without classes. They just do not go. They can be identified from their class hoodies and can be found lounging around the Students’ Union, Scholars or the SU shop. Lectures and homework are meaningless terms to these students; they are far more concerned with house parties and “lodging” (you’ll learn all about that). No-one is quite sure how they pass their exams or how their livers survive, but they’re always around.

The Library Residents In contrast to those who never go to class, there are those who are so committed to their course (or so fearful of failing) that they attend every lecture (often

32p_PULSE_Mag Limerick_240 x 170mm.indd 10-11

even the ones the lecturer doesn’t) and spend most of their time in the Glucksman Library hunting for extra course material and studying. The library computers are always occupied by this lot and around exam time the study spaces are inundated by these hard workers frantically cramming to get that A. These are the people who probably did grinds in school and it’s best just to let them at it.

The Study Abroad/Erasmus Student UL also hosts many non-Irish students. Study abroad students come from the mysterious United States and always offer interesting insights into the classes they choose to attend. Erasmus students come from European universities and are increasingly fascinated

by Irish student life and its strange ways. These students enthusiastically join clubs and societies as well as participating helpfully in class. It’s just a shame they only stay for one semester.

Mature Students A mature student is a person over 21 but they are generally older than this. Mature students are confident, experienced bunch who are always willing to speak their minds in class and ask the difficult questions that a younger undergrad might not. Unfortunately they don’t often join clubs or societies because their time is taken up with other commitments; many may have children at home. While there is sometimes a gap between mature students and those who came straight from school, there is no reason this should be a barrier to enjoying student life.

Now you’ve seen a brief snapshot of the different kinds of students who spend their time in classes (or out of classes) at UL. University is a place where people from all over Ireland and indeed the world meet. So, what kind of student are you?

Dear Mr and Mrs Milford I have just come to UL to study Nursing.

So far I totally love it but I have one problem.

I have this boyfriend and he’s ok, nothing exciting or special like, but we’ve been going out forever and we vowed to stay together for like ever. He’s in Cork but we thought we would make it work despite the distance like. Anyway I was totally happy until I got to UL and saw all the hotties. It’s made me want to finish with my boyfriend but like I don’t know how.

Can you help?

Hi Anita, Yours, Anita Mann.

Coming to college is an exciting time but clearly you feel held back by your boyfriend at home. There’s no shame in admitting that, in fact it’s a good thing. Indecision is what causes problems, but you’ve clearly made up your mind. You never know, he might be feeling exactly the same way but not know how to bring it up – you might even be doing him a favour too!

My advice would be to call him during the week and arrange to meet up at the weekend. When you speak to him, be direct and firm, but understanding and gentle. Start off by referencing how much you enjoyed your time with him and the relationship. Then make it clear that your intention isn’t to hurt him but that you have to be honest about how you’re feeling – at this stage a relationship with him isn’t for you. Finish up the conversation by wishing him the best in the future. Be wary of the whole asking him to be friends thing, if the break-up isn’t mutual.

Finally, go off and have some fun!!

All the best, Mrs. Milford Hi Anita, Welcome to UL; home of the young free and single.

You’ve a boyfriend; no problem that’s just a pothole on the road to success. Long distance in my mind is from Plassey to Cappavilla. Keeping a relationship going over that distance is tough’ never mind from here to Cork.

Now keep in mind it’s important not to shit on your own doorstep…do not go off with your housemates, that gets messy! You can trust me on that. If you’re looking for a few ways to dump someone I recommend one or more of the following: Text message – this is quick simple and efficient. He will be well use to getting texts and this way he will always remember you sent it to him. A good wording for this would be “welcome 2 dumpsville, population U”. It’s a crowd pleaser that one.

Facebook Status - you’re in college so get off Bebo. It’s shit. Update your status regularly giving subtle hints to your fella that you might be moving on with out him… “great night in the Lodge last night, I bagged me a buck”.

Announcements at Mass - on a Sunday morning when the priest is announcing local news get him to shout out that yourself and himself have split up.

It works on two levels; first the girl he loves has just dumped him, secondly everyone in the parish knows it’d be class! The best till Last - Do you drive? If not learn to for this one. Tell him ye’re going for a nice romantic spin and drive him 20 miles into the backarse of nowhere (won’t be hard in Cork). Stop the car tell him to get out and that you never want to see him again.

Then you drive off into the sunset. Beautiful.

Now the break up is over, you’re probably looking for a shoulder to cry on. Hit the Lodge and go home with one of your ex’s best mates. This is sure to get back to the ex who will then know for certain that you are over him.

See ya, Mr. Milford.

19/08/2009 23:12:13

By Shane O’Callaghan LOCATED on the beautiful shores of Spain’s Costa Dorada, Salou is one of the most popular destinations for young, Irish people, and after visiting there, it’s easy to see why.

For a relatively small town, Salou has a hectic nightlife. There’s a wide variety of bars to choose from, including the obvious plethora of Irish and English bars which stay open as late as 3.30am.

A few of the bars are aimed at families and older couples, and these tend to close earlier. Bars like Charlie Chaplin’s and Christy’s, on the other hand, both stay open late and offer great deals. They also provide a good atmosphere, with bands, entertainers, and rather dubious ‘hypnotists’ performing throughout the week. If you’re planning a wild night out, then either of these, both located on the Calle Falset are good first stops before hitting the nightclubs.

Nightclubs stay open until 6.30 in the morning, which can lead to the rather surreal experience of leaving the nightclub to find the sun rising. Most are located around the Carlos Buigas area. Almost all of the nightclubs in Salou are free entry, and have different drinks promotions every night. Of all the nightclubs, Kiss is the one with the widest appeal. It has four floors, and plays a variety of music. It’s advisable for women to avoid Croc’s, as they tend to encounter a great deal of hassle from some of the male customers.

One of the region’s biggest attractions is Port Aventura, a Universal Studios theme park. It’s easily accessible, located close to Salou, and buses run every five minutes. It’s well worth visiting, as the park is huge, with over thirty rides, including some of the largest rollercoasters in Europe and a 100 meter freefall called Hurakan Condor. It is possible to go on all the major rides in just one day, but you’d probably need to get a two day pass to relax and enjoy the park at your own pace.

For those not interested in heart-stopping rides, there are numerous shows throughout the park, reflecting its five unique sections; Mediterrania, Far West, Mexico, Polynesia, and China.

Salou has eight main beaches, each with golden sands. Most of these beaches are very pleasant and clean. The largest beach, Llevant, is dotted with ice cream stands, specially designated sports areas, and a children’s activity park. Despite all this, if you’re looking to relax, it’s easy to find a

32p_PULSE_Mag Limerick_240 x 170mm.indd 12-13

TRAVEL

Finn McDuffie revisits his final thought in Amsterdam

By Finn McDuffie nice, quiet area in the sun.

When it comes to food, there is a huge variety available. There are, of course, the ever present McDonald’s and Burger King, and innumerable fish and chips shops. As well as this, there is a huge diversity of food, with steakhouses, Indian, Chinese, French, American and, of course, traditional tapas bars.

The best places to eat tend to be located off the main roads. It’s recommended that you have a good look around the town to see everything that it has to offer. An example of this is the Van De Casteele, a Dutch restaurant. It has a brilliant menu, with traditional Dutch food, and for those who want something a bit more familiar, a European menu, with huge portions, and great pizzas.

Salou is only an hour by train from Barcelona, making it well worth visiting. One of the things absent from Salou is a sense of local culture, but Barcelona easily compensates for this. The city is dotted with museums and art galleries. Barcelona also hosts many traditional markets, particularly on the famous Las Ramblas, and wandering down any of the city’s streets, you will encounter street performers of all varieties.

And of course, Barcelona is the home of many cultural landmarks, the prime example being Gaudi’s Cathedral, a breathtaking sight. For those who prefer their cultural landmarks to be related to sports, there is the Nou Camp, which offers tours of the massive stadium.

There are tour buses from Salou to Nou Camp and the cathedral, but it is recommended that you travel there yourself to get a chance to explore the rest of this wonderful city.

Finding accommodation in Spain is very easy and it is priced quite reasonably. For those looking for somewhere cheap and cheerful, places like the Mediterranean Suites offer basic apartments from around €50 per person per week. No matter where you stay, make sure not to leave valuables on display, and to lock everything before leaving.

Most hotels will have safes that can be rented for the duration of your stay.

In all, Salou is a fun, vibrant place to visit, with a thriving nightlife. If you’re looking for a slice of Spanish culture, then Barcelona would be a better option, but for a week or two away partying with friends, Salou is a great destination.

When people start writing about Amsterdam, they tend to get a thesaurus and find all positive synonyms for crazy. To encapsulate Amsterdam in one article is to wrap a cactus in cling film. It’s absurd and ineffective. Why? Because Amsterdam is an exceptionally vast hive of history, culture, beauty, fun and the unconventional. And because my editor has allowed me only 700 words.

Amsterdam’s museum district boasts some of Europe’s leading institutions, including the Rijksmuseum. Here, you can find a very special Rembrandt collection and other pieces, together celebrating the victories, wealth and creativity of the Dutch golden age. The Van Gogh Museum boasts 25 masterpieces and the Anne Frank House is a recommended visit, but mind the queues!

Not too far from the museum district, across the leafy Singelgracht canal that once provided the old Heineken brewery with its water, is Vondel Park (Wonder Park).

This expansive, blossoming green exhibits some striking statues and vibrant floral carpets that stretch and wind around the many ponds. It’s one of several serene hideaways where natives and visitors go to relax, cycle, play music and bask in the sunshine.

Sometimes a very distinctive scent lingers in this bohemian Mecca, but it’s not specific to Vondel Park.

You can pick it up all over the city, often coming from small alleys or smoking passers-by.

One of Amsterdam’s odorous curiosities is cannabis.

And sitting expectantly amid the classical, innovative and always-surprising architecture are cannabis cafés (or coffee shops as they’re more commonly known).

These are located all about the city centre and offer a number of cannabis varieties and products. The shops often host swathes of smoking tourists, attracted by Amsterdam’s quiet tolerance.

Another thing that must be mentioned in this respect is the red light district, where prostitution is allowed in a confined and controlled environment. Here, scantly clad ladies stand, dance and wave in shop windows on small cobbled streets, wrapped in red light to make them stand out against a dark background. It’s certainly an eye opener that such practices remain

strong in Europe. But perhaps that’s only the view of a naïve, young, Irish lad. Aside from the unconventional specialities, Amsterdam’s streets hide some fantastic music venues, pubs and nightclubs. Melkweg (Milky Way), with its two concert halls, is one of the most active music centres of the Netherlands and if you’re looking for something cooler, visit Xtra Cold Ice Bar where the walls, couches, fireplace and drinks glasses are made of ice! Sugar Factory provides Amsterdam with a ‘night theatre’ and serves as a podium for alternative acts and club nights and Boom Chicago Comedy Theatre is Amsterdam’s longest running English language comedy club. Other comedy venues include Troomler, Easylaughs, Comedy in the Nes and Comedy Café. Behind the regal facades of old merchant houses lies Amsterdam’s giggling sore side, which is testament to the indefatigable good humour and tireless pleasance of the locals.

And a good place to meet these locals is the Bloemenmarkt (Flower Market), where a vast array of flowers, plants and bulbs sit softly on the bobbing, floating stalls of one of the city’s oldest canals. The colours, smells and excitement of this animated market are a big draw not only for keen gardeners, but tourists and locals looking for a special gift or a chat.

If you’re looking for some local cuisine though, the Albert Cuyp Markt (I can’t pronounce it either) is the best place to get some Haring (Herring). This oily fish is prepared fresh in front of you, and is eaten raw with a gherkin and bread. The flavour is very strong so if this isn’t for you, try some Stroopwafel (Syrup Waffle)!

This soft, sugary, local treat is made from two thin layers of batter filled with a caramel syrup. Variations are available and the buttery type is excellent.

Stroopwafel originates from Gouda. This Dutch region’s main export is Gouda Cheese, which is also available at many of this market’s lively delicatessens.

The last place I’ll mention is Dam Square. Not because it’s very special, but because it’s a wide-open space where there’s nothing much to see. It’s also the last part of the city I visited and my final thought was something like Amsterdam, Ik wil je hier en nu!

19/08/2009 23:12:15

You’re probably going to be spending a lot of time around Limerick now that you’re an official UL student so why not spend some time visiting all the attractions Limerick has to offer?

King John’s Castle For your first staycation we won’t make your venture too far. King John’s Castle was built in the 13th Century and is located in the heart of Limerick City. The castle is located on the southern bank of the River Shannon and provides spectacular views over the city. In particular, the corner towers of the castle provide stunning panoramic views of the city. The castle was built in the 13th Century and is located in the heart of Limerick City.

Opening Hours: The castle is open daily from 10am to 5pm, with last admission at 4pm. At weekends the castle is open until 5.30pm and last admission is at 4.30pm.

Cost: A student ticket will cost about €7. Make sure to bring your student ID to get the discount!

Getting there: From the University, follow the signs for Shannon Airport and you can’t miss it!

Treaty Stone When you’re finished at King John’s Castle, cross back over the river and take a visit to the Treaty Stone.

The Treaty Stone is the spot where the Treaty of Limerick was signed in 1691.

The signing of the Treaty marked the end of the Williamite War in Ireland. The stone now sits on a pedestal located at Thomond Bride in the city, directly across from King John’s Castle.

Opening Hours: 24 hours a day, 365 days a year!

Cost: Free!

Getting There: Treaty Stone is located near St Munchins Church on the opposite side of the river from King John’s Castle.

Milk Market If architecture and history aren’t your thing why not visit the Milk Market? The Milk Market is Limerick’s Farmers’ Market and is extremely popular with locals and tourists.

It has grown in size in the last few years and has now expanded beyond the physical walls of the Milk Market.

It’s a must visit spot for fresh farmers’ produce, great food and any number of other wonderful things.

Opening Hours: You need to be up early to catch the Milk Market. It’s on Saturday mornings from about 8am and finishes around lunch. You need to be early to get the best bargains!

Cost: Free to enter.

Getting There: You know where Molly’s is yeah? Well if you go to Molly’s on a Saturday morning you won’t miss the Milk Market!

Ruán Dillon McLoughlin – President Parts of my first week were quite a blur to be honest. As usual there were a few great nights out to be had! From the parts I remember what stands out most was when I joined the Kayak Club. I saw a cool promo video they had on, so I checked them out on the internet and decided to head along to the pool session in the Arena. It was great craic and they were all really nice. Going to the pool on my own for the first time wasn’t easy but it was worth it in the end as I made loads of great friends. The decision to join the club resulted in me travelling around the world to kayak in different countries and continents!

I haven’t looked back since and it was definitely the best thing I’ve done since I came to college!

Derek Daly – Welfare Officer (BBS Accounting and Personnel ’09) When I landed at the concert hall back on September 2005, it wasn’t all that bad for me.

I came from a school that sent at least 20 people to UL that year, and I was (and still am) good friends with 6 or 7 of them. The first morning was a little strange, since we were just put sitting in the next available seat, in other words; no place near anyone we knew. It was all very quiet; the only time I’ve ever heard it so quiet in there bar the 3 orientation weeks since then when I was a guide. I started talking to the person next to me, but I can’t even remember now if it was a guy or a girl. The conversation was rambling and I’m not even sure it made sense. Then there was the night life. Myself and the lads from school went along as a group, keen not to end up lost in a sea of “get me out of here”.

We met a few people from our course and we’re still good friends with a lot of them.

Making new friends is an ongoing process at UL and I’m still adding to my collection. The one piece of advice I’ll give is have no regrets. UL is a microcosm of the world, there’s people from everywhere, so go and explore the world that is UL…but careful…don’t get Swine Flu. Everyone feels a little lost at first…I know I did, so join a society or a club and get to know people in a more informal setting than a classroom, or pop into the SU and say hello to one of us. I pestered poor Paddy Pratt, the Education Officer in 2005 for 10 minutes once a fortnight for the first semester, it didn’t put him out and it made me feel a whole lot better that there was someone to listen to me…we’re here, we’re listening, so call in. ENJOY!!

Aoife Finnerty – Education Officer I remember everything was just so big! The Main Building was like a maze to try and get around – disappearing floors, hidden rooms, etc. I remember free chocolate, Pot Noodle, toiletries and random stuff like that. I also vividly remember all the banks trying to sign me up for bank accounts – they were quite scary! My orientation guide was great too; I still talk to him now 4 years later!

Probably the best part for me was meeting my flatmate, Jenny. She was from Co. Limerick which meant she knew all the good pubs and clubs to hit. We went out the Wednesday and Thursday nights of our first week to the Lodge and to Trinity Rooms. I remember telling my Mam and her response was “Two nights?? In a row? Oh God don’t tell us you’re going to be one of those students!!” Meeting Jenny was great though. Being from Longford, there weren’t many people down here that I knew. She knew so many people that I now had a group of people that I knew. My final memory from my first week in college is how excited I was to be coming back to Limerick the next week, and the week after that, and the week after that. I instantly knew this was where I was meant to be.

32p_PULSE_Mag Limerick_240 x 170mm.indd 14-15

19/08/2009 23:12:19

FASHION

Fergal Dempsey – Campaigns and Services Officer (B.Sc Health and Safety ’09) I came down to Limerick four years ago when times were different. We could throw money at problems to make them go away as we were all living the dream in the middle of the Celtic Tiger. I was there, a Celtic pup, going living away from home for the first time and had the world at my feet. I was coming to Limerick because I wanted to “get away” from Mayo, even though I was going home every weekend to make sure I had clean clothes for the next week. 3 ½ hours on a bus is a long journey to travel just to do your washing! It wasn’t long before I got into the swing of things down here in Limerick.

I realised I knew everything about rugby and considered myself a proud Munster Man. The Lodge was without a shadow of a doubt the greatest club in the world and a night out wasn’t a night out until you had dived in some bush. It was a great life! I hope that now with all you first years starting you have the same craic and get up to the same shit we were getting up to. College is the greatest 4 years of your life. Make the most of it. It’s over all too quick and then you don’t get to be a pup anymore.

Aoife Ní Raghallaigh – Communications Officer (B.A. An Ghaeilge agus Na Meáin Úra ’09) I don’t remember much about my first week at UL but a couple of things stand out a lot.

I was living in Plassey with seven people I had never met before. On our first night, in an effort to “bond” we all decided to go to this cool club we’d heard about called The Lodge”.

We all got dressed up in our finest and made our way to this mythical place. Out of Plassey we wandered and took the first left, and strolled off in the wrong direction. Needless to say, we didn’t find the Lodge that night and I think some of us were convinced The Lodge didn’t exist. How wrong we were.

I also remember being so petrified at the thought of Orientation and starting lectures.

I was convinced something terrible was going to happen, or I’d make a fool of myself in front everyone resulting in a horrible social death before lectures even started. Thankfully nothing dreadful happened, apart from a serious case of homesickness which saw me jumping of the first available bus home. As I travelled home that day I was convinced I’d never make it through a year of college but I soon settled in though. I’m sure if four years ago someone had told me I’d end up working in the Students’ Union I’d have thought they were mental, but you never know where the next four years will bring you!

Michael Bourke – Postgraduate Students’ Association President First year… God it seems like so long ago, which I suppose it was; 2003 and the world was a different place. The North Campus meant Drumroe and the Simpsons were still relevant. Six cans of Dutch were €7 and the old Scholars was a pub – not a shop. Luckily I lived on campus in Kilmurry with seven other first years which made coming here on my own that little bit easier. I joined the Kayak club, like most people do and quickly found out that it was too much effort for me, whereas hanging out with my new housemates and friends was much easier, if a little messier. It was hard to get to know people from my class because we were all spread out and mixed in with all the other humanities classes. We were all getting used to finding our way around and often got lost on the way to B1016, but luckily most people managed to find the Stables pretty easy – finding your way home on the other hand proved to be more of a problem. But that is what first year is all about finding yourself and finding your way. I have too many stories from first year that can’t be printed here unfortunately; but one bit of advice I would like to give you all is to remember that you won’t regret anything you do – just those you don’t.

Get involved and get out there meeting people and then go meet some more people.

I finished my undergrad in 2007 and I am still living with one of my friends from first year and I am still in contact with most of the rest of them on a daily basis – seven years after we met despite them being scattered from Castletroy to Canada, Dublin to Dubai and Madrid to Korea. UL is what you make of it, it will give you opportunities you never dreamed of and friends you’ll never forget. Just stay safe and look after one-another and remember have fun! It may be because it was so long ago or the fact that those brain cells are long since passed but if I was to sum first year up in one memory it would be laughing, all I ever remember from first year is always laughing.

32p_PULSE_Mag Limerick_240 x 170mm.indd 16-17

on a budget

By Aoife Finnerty I’m not claiming to be Kate Moss by any long shot and I’m also not claiming that there aren’t at least 10 pictures of me in horrific clothes.

However, during my 4 years in UL there are one or two things that I picked up; 1) Get to know a good dressmaker/seamstress This is the golden rule of cheap chic. This is for two reasons. Firstly there are about 5 formal balls in UL each year, so it’s particularly easy on your pocket if you can make the same dress cover more than one. With a few simple alterations a full-length debs dress be turned into a short cocktail dress.

The second reason is that ill-fitting clothes are not attractive. A good dressmaker can alter virtually any item of clothing depending on the fabric. The difference between a pencil skirt in standard size 12 and a size 12 pencil skirt that’s been altered to fit your shape exactly is immense!

Try everything on – remember that the mirrors and dim lighting in a lot of shops sometimes lie.That’s where the good friend and the camera come in!

Now look at what you want to buy and ask yourself honestly – will you ever wear it? Only buy things that fit into your wardrobe. If you really will wear it and you can think of the five other items that you will wear with it to make an outfit, then go for it!

3) Damaged goods Have a look for stock that’s slightly damaged. It’s always cheaper and it’s very easy to sew a button back on or hide a tear in the underskirt of a dress.

Anything that’s too difficult can be handled by your friendly neighbourhood dressmaker!

However I will issue a word of warning when it comes to dressmakers. As is any business, the majority are good.

However I can’t stress how important it is that you ask for a quote before they chop off half of your dress and then ask you if you’d like to continue at the price that they’ve set. I had one very bad experience with a dressmaker in Limerick that I’d been to before. So be smart with your money and with your clothes!

2) Don’t ignore the checklist It’s so easy to see a really nice corset or pair of jeans and think “I’ve got to buy that!” But bear in mind that not everything that looks beautiful on the hanger will be beautiful on you and furthermore, that not everything that’s beautiful belongs in your wardrobe. That’s where the checklist comes in.

Every time you go shopping remember the three steps; Bring a good friend – they’re always honest about what does and doesn’t suit you, if not they can take a picture.

19/08/2009 23:12:22

Trends for

Autumn 2009

By Hannah Winter

Colour Black is the new black! This season’s look is based around black tops, black trousers and black shoes, which is good news for those strapped for cash.

Most people have plenty of basic black clothes, which will see you through the season while remaining on trend. If you don’t already own a black t-shirt, string top and trousers, I’d recommend skipping on down to Penneys were you should be able to pick them up on the cheap. What to pair with an all-black outfit? Pink, pink, pink (to make the boys wink). Runways were full of plain black ensembles with a splash of colour in the form of shocking pink shoes, skirts and belts. So make like Emanuel Ungaro and the gang and jazz up your outfit with a neon accessory (just one, mind – unless you want to look like a Barbie). And remember, the hotter the pink, the hotter the look.

Trends From Marc Jacobs to Miss Sixty, the designers are unanimous - this is the season of the shoulders. From cute, one-shouldered, Luella dresses to that fantastically big-shouldered Balmain blazer, fashion is saluting the Eighties.

While huge shoulder pads are a tough one to pull off and is probably a trend to be left to the professionals, oneshouldered dresses are so easy to wear and are bang on trend. The new LBD is asymmetric, knee length with a puffy skirt - expect the high street to be full of these in the coming months. This style will take you from a night out, to a posh dinner, to a family occasion. Snap it up!

Jeans Jeans, jeans, jeans; where would we students be without our denim? Skinny jeans are still one of the trendiest styles around which is good news for those who can’t bear to be parted from their

32p_PULSE_Mag Limerick_240 x 170mm.indd 18-19

beloved skinnies. Wear them dressed down with a cute top and cardi for lectures, or dressed up with heels for an evening out. The skinny-haters out there will undoubtedly love the other major cut to be seen in the stores this season: the boyfriend.

Yup, women’s jeans made to look like men’s, who whudda thunk this could look good? But these are so comfy and make a nice alternative to ultra-tight styles (especially for those of us with a little extra, ahem, blubber around the bum/ thigh area). If you’re on the skint side, go authentic and steal your boyfriend or male friends’ cleanest pair, add a belt and voilá - effortless style!

And what not to wear Whatever the professionals say, the following should not be worn be non-models/celebrities: Harem Pants.

For the love of God, these are the most ridiculous looking things imaginable…why are they still in the shops?

Jumpsuits.

Only a select few can make full-length jumpsuits look chic. As for the short, floral variety? Summer’s over…

Zebra Stripes.

Two words: Vera Duckworth Brocade.

Pretty in small doses, but overall it’s a bit too couch-y. Maybe it’s the influence of the wallpaper in Icon, but I think this should be left to upholstery.

Sequinned leggings.

Not unless you have legs like Gisele Bundchen.

The Essential

First Year Wardrobe

By Hannah Winter MOST first years are coming from a secondary school where they were wearing the same uniform as everyone else every single day, so coming to college where you get to decide for yourself what clothes to wear is incredibly liberating. However, it can also be daunting - you don’t want to be overdressed or underdressed, especially when you’re meeting people for the first time and making first impressions. So I’ve compiled a guide of the basic wardrobe essentials I think you should have in college.

Jeans You’ll find yourself wearing jeans a lot in college.

Comfortable and stylish, they’re the perfect choice for everyday wear. It’s a good idea to have a few pairs of classic styles, like bootcut, in regular, dark or light blue. These will never go out of fashion, and you’ll probably be wearing them until you graduate.

It’s also nice to have a few trendy pairs, like skinny or boyfriend cuts. The great thing about jeans is their versatility - they can be dressed down with converse and a geansaí for college or dressed up with nice shoes and a fashionable top for night time.

One classic dress that you love to bits The colour suits you. The shape flatters you. It won’t be out of style in a few weeks. You can wear it dressed down with flats and a cardigan for lectures, or dressed up with heels and jewels for a night out. I call it the holy grail of dresses; I’m still searching.

Skirts You either love ‘em or you hate ‘em.

Cardigan The word “cardigan” might make you think of an American grandad, but nowadays cardis are less frumpy and cuter. Perfect for pairing with a string top, jeans and flats for lectures, and available in about a gazillion different styles, fabrics, colours and patterns, cardigans truly are a must-have item for a student.

A|wear is a good place to start shopping.

A hold-all bag I would encourage all first-years to invest in a leather or faux leather oh-my-god-how-does-all-that-stufffit-in-there bag. Not only can it be used as a stylish alternative to a school bag for quiet days in college, it’s also a godsend for nights out. One of my friends has a bag that she bought for €10 in Dunnes that can hold a spare pair of flats, a wash bag and two coats on a night out which is handy if you’d rather spend money on another drink instead of the cloak room.

Going-out clothes Get used to deciding to go out on the spur of the moment - it’s handy to have a few outfits decided on beforehand. If you look around any pub or club you’ll see that what people wear differs vastly; from dresses with heels, to dressy tops with jeans or skirts. Just do yourself a favour, and don’t wear high heels that will have you crippled before you even start dancing.

Flat shoes I would recommend having at least two pairs of ballet shoes in your wardrobe- one in a basic colour like black or brown for regular use, and one trendy pair in a bright colour or pattern for those days when you need to give a boring outfit a bit of extra oomph with minimal effort. Pretty much every shop on the high street has a large selection of flats, ranging from €6-10 in Pennys and Dunnes to €30 upwards in shops like River Island.

Winter Coat Brrr! It gets c-c-cold in the winter. You’ll need a warm jacket for walking to 9am lectures when it’s below freezing outside.

Umbrella When I first came to UL, it rained constantly for two weeks. Do yourself a favour and invest in an umbrella. You can get cheap, cute and compact ones in Penneys and Dunnes that will fit into your bag, but be warned that they break easily.

Hoodies Right, hoodies. Definitely a staple in the wardrobe of most students. The danger is getting into the habit of wearing them everywhere, constantly. This is especially dangerous when it comes to getting class hoodies. When everybody in the year is wearing the exact same hoodie, all individuality goes out the window.

19/08/2009 23:12:27

FEATURES

By Emma Hayward.

I used to think that self-defence classes were a superfluous. What’s the point of training to defend yourself now if you could easily die in a car crash tomorrow? But I can’t deny the fact that we need to be aware of what we could be facing when we least expect it.

An active nightlife is a major component of our generation’s social agenda and we are constantly reminded by those savvy people, mainly our parents, of the dangers lurking in every bush and around every corner, though we would hardly admit they’re savvier than we are.

I know some of you are thinking, well, it’s hardly going to help when you’re unbalanced and slightly out of it at 3am walking home from the Lodge or wherever and you’re more likely to hurt yourself than your attacker, due to your lack of co-ordination.

Although this may be true, I’m inclined to believe that a little bit of self-defence training could jog your memory quicker so you might have a chance of using a few moves and getting away. Or you could just resort to a crude universal move like smashing your attacker over the head with an empty bottle, though that could end in tears for everyone, plus you might not have an empty bottle handy.

Ladies, this is where those Jimmy Choos come in. You may not be winning any 100 metre sprints in them but let’s face it, they are the perfect weapon. So, if you find yourself cornered, just whip them off and look threatening, or if you’re wearing flats, just take off the nearest friend’s stiletto, though be careful you don’t trip them up in the process as that defeats the whole purpose. Combined with the knowledge of pressure points on your opponent (the groin being the most obvious) , it could be a rather quick finish to Randy the Rapist. You don’t even have to be a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle or a steroid pumping body builder. I’m thinking more of a modern balance, more of a Miss Congeniality. After all, size doesn’t matter if you know what you’re doing, though it could seem daunting when confronted with a person twice your size.

Apart from muggers, madmen and rapists, there are the inevitable daily encounters with regular thick people, in every sense of the word. You could be waiting patiently in line at, oh, McDonald’s, say, when all of a sudden a fat man is bulldozing through you to get to the Big Mac that’s calling his name from the other side of the counter.

Usually, you would be shoved sideways nursing a bruised rib before you’d realised what happened but using your knowledge from self-defence class, you could stop them with a few sharp prods in a tender area or two. That should do the trick. Of course, you’d have to make sure you’re doing it correctly; otherwise you might as well be poking an angry dog in the face.

You could end up being the minced meat in their Big Mac for all your efforts. The best advice you can get from any martial arts expert is simply to avoid those sticky situations in the first place.

Taking self-defence classes can also improve your general reflexes, flexibility and overall fitness level. Not to mention the advantage you would have in tussles over the TV remote or manoeuvring your way across a crowded dance floor. I know I’ll be joining up to the next Martial Arts class I come across. Maybe karate, judo or jujitsu? Origami sounds interesting. Perhaps I’ll even learn the secret of Unagi. That isn’t really just a type of sushi, is it?

32p_PULSE_Mag Limerick_240 x 170mm.indd 20-21

By Jason Kennedy It’s Saturday the 8th August and I was just buzzed into the Church of Scientology in Dublin. I’m physically shaking after the stories I’ve been told outside by former scientologist, Peter Griffiths. He tells me that they call all journalists ‘merchants of chaos’, and make up rumours about those that write negative stories about their ‘Religion’. Today probably wasn’t the best day to be wearing my Journalism and New Media class hoody. I could picture naive people being led up these stairs by scientologists to complete their free personality test, the first step in joining the church, which is widely regarded as a dangerous cult. Next thing I heard a voice from the top of the stairs boom down at me: “Stop, stay there. I saw you outside with the protestors.”

Earlier that morning I head met with members of Anonymous, a group who make it their mission to warn people of the dangers of Scientology. After seven years as a Scientologist, Peter is now more than aware of the true nature of the group. Sitting on a chair right across the street from the Church, Peter tells me that his brother has been a Scientologist for the past 20 years and, by rule of the Church, is not permitted to communicate with him.

“When I left staff I got declared a suppressive person, which in Scientology is the worst thing you can be.

It means you are anti-scientology, so there must be something wrong with you. The reality is that anyone who leaves the church and speaks out against the Church is called a suppressive person. Psychiatry is called a suppressive group. Medicine is a suppressive group. The French Judicial system will undoubtedly be dubbed suppressive, because they’re on trial in France.”

Despite the Church’s new opinion on Peter, his brother is still planning to meet him this September. Peter admits that he does try and talk his brother out of the religion, but claims you cannot talk a person out of Scientology.

“You can never convince them that you’re right and they’re wrong. You ask them to honestly look at what

they have observed in Scientology and do they actually see that anyone has these powers that they are supposed to have, like an improved memory.

“In fact, one thing you are supposed to do if you take part in the Scientology Dianetics course is stop wearing glasses. If you take a look it the Scientology office, you will see that most of the wear glasses. It’s just crazy.”

At this point, Peter noticed a number of Scientologists staring out the window at us, including the woman who I would later encounter. While I got nervous, because of all the stories I have heard, the protestors waved, many of them with their identities safe and secure behind V for Vendetta masks. “Look at them Scilons staring down at us. That’s just a nickname we have for the Scientologists. We also call them Ronbots and Rondroids [after Scientology creator, L. Ron Hubbard]. They probably don’t even know we give them nicknames.” After the Scientologists got back to their day’s activities, Peter told me about his exit from the Church of Scientology.

“I was an active Scientologist for seven years and then another 13 years went by where I didn’t actively participate in any Scientology, but I still thought that they were the good guys.

“Then a friend of mine came to a protest outside the Church in 2008. I asked him why he was doing that because they are the good guys. He said that they are not the good guys and told me to go online and see for myself. I started to do that and found out that all the things that I thought were true about Scientology and L. Ron Hubbard were all lies.”

The Anonymous group come equipped to every protest with some of the very equipment Scientologists use to lure in naive candidates. One such gadget is the Electrometer, which looks like a device from an early episode of Doctor Who. Peter instructed me to sit down in front of the device and hold onto two grips, which resembles tin cans, which were connected to the Electrometer by crocodile clips. When the machine was turned on, Peter pinched me on my right arm, and the meter jumped forward, then settled down again.

19/08/2009 23:12:30

Scientologists and their Protestors I was then instructed to think about being pinched, which led to the meter jumping again.

“Scientologists prey on peoples’ emotions. During a stress test the Scientologist asks ‘what were you thinking of?’ and the candidate says ‘my dead father’ and starts crying and they have yet another member to get cash out of.”

At this point, I think it’s fair to get the right of reply from the scientologists, after all, once a month Anonymous get all the attention.

So, I’m buzzed in, shaking and climbing up the steps when a short, angry lady calls down to me: “Stop, stay there. I saw you outside with the protestors.” It is very clear I have already gotten on the wrong side

32p_PULSE_Mag Limerick_240 x 170mm.indd 22-23

of Scientologists. I start to go on the charm offensive, saying I got their side of the story and would like get theirs. She makes a scowling face at me and tells me that the PR man is out and will not be back for the day.

She does, however, give me a Dianetics leaflet with the contact number, before telling me to get out. I am later told that this individual is a member of the Sea Org, an international group of leading Scientologists that devote their lives to their religion.

On my way back, I walk by the protestors and thank them. Peter shakes my hand and says: “Scientology is on its way out. People are realising it’s a very dangerous cult, and it’s only a matter of time before the whole thing falls apart.”

For more information on Anonymous visit: www.anoneire.ning.com

W

… e v o L I hy

Vintage Cars

It was harder than I thought to sit down and list all the reasons I love vintage cars. After all, sometimes you just love things and can’t explain exactly why. After talking it over with other vintage car enthusiasts and much deliberating on my behalf, I have come up with a number of reasons as to why I love vintage cars.

When I was 10 my Dad drove a cream and blue Citroen 2CV before moving on to a green Citroen Dyane. The reason I mention these cars is because they spawned a life time love of the strange and the different. I can’t remember a single detail about any other car he ever drove, but can remember the minor details about those two Citroen’s. Like the fact that the 2CV had a soft roof that was kept in place with simple poppers or the way you pushed the gear stick in and out of the dashboard rather than having it standing upright beside your seats.

I also remember the way they turned heads everywhere we went. You always remember if you pass a vintage car on the road, possibly as the pain-in-the-ass car that held you up, but mainly because they’re so different.

Modern cars are lovely, don’t get me wrong, but they all look the same and have all the same features. They can’t be innovative because all the boundaries have already been pushed to the limit by the cars that are now considered ‘vintage’. Vintage cars weren’t afraid to be diverse or to try new things and the result was cars that came in any number of shapes and sizes. The cars weren’t afraid to try something new either so they’re full of quirky features.

People are always happy to see vintage cars too.

Something I’ve always noticed is that when you drive by in a vintage car, people going in the opposite direction are always smiling. I don’t know if they’re laughing at or with me, but they’re laughing and they’re happy.

The same happens if you see a vintage car parked somewhere. People love coming over to take a look and ask about the car. Whether they’re interested in cars or not, people just know that a vintage car is something special. Vintage cars make people happy.

From custom paint jobs to specially made interiors, vintage cars are customised to the last and it never looks tacky. If you put a modification on a modern car you’re instantly branded a ‘boy racer’ but the vintage car scene is all about modification. A vintage car owner doesn’t want to have a car that looks like every other car and so they will willingly spend hours looking for the perfect modification to make their car stand out.

These modifications also allow the vintage car to become an extension of its owner. In the same way someone might get a tattoo or piercing to express themselves, the vintage car owner uses modifications as a form of expression. You can tell a lot about a car owner from the modifications they put on their car.

A Volkswagen owner who goes for a ‘rat look’, which is when a car is allowed to rust but is mechanically perfectly, isn’t too worried about aesthetics and isn’t afraid to turn heads. Another Volkswagen owner might prefer to simply restore their Beetle or Camper to its original beauty showing that they are unworried about being flashy or cool.

Love them or hate them, there is no denying that vintage cars are head turners. The vintage car scene in Ireland is a lot bigger than you’d think and I’d definitely recommend getting to a show and seeing the ways the different cars have been restored and modified.

You never know, you might find yourself falling in love and getting your own car. Personally, I can’t wait to see what cars are considered vintage in another 30 year’s time!

19/08/2009 23:12:32

MUSIC

Saving J

By Aoife Ní Raghallaigh Irish band, Saving J, are set to explode onto the Irish music scene in the coming months as they release their much anticipated debut album, This City Street.

Saving J is a five piece indie rock band, hailing from Kilkenny. The band is comprised of Sean Redmond (guitar/vocals), Liam Redmond (lead guitar), Eamon McEvoy (bass) and Paul Hindle (drums). The band came together in 2006 and has rapidly gained recognition on the Irish music scene. Saving J singles have received regular airtime on local and national stations and the band’s music videos have been played on Bubble Hits in the UK and Ireland as well as on Channel 6. Their singles have also been available for purchase on iTunes and on DownloadMusic.ie When they aren’t busy releasing singles, Saving J have also been spending long hours gigging around Ireland and making an excellent name for themselves. In recent months they have toured with the likes of The Blizzards, Ham Sandwich and The Coronas. They have also headlined a number of their own gigs.

Saving J list Kilkenny heroes Kerbdog and Wilt amongst

32p_PULSE_Mag Limerick_240 x 170mm.indd 24-25

their influences and it is clear that singer Sean Redmond, has been heavily influenced by heavily by the vocal stylings of Cormac Battle. Songs like Bus Stop and Kick Off are particularly reminiscent of the sounds of Kerbdog and Wilt. They have also been influenced

by Weezer, something which is particularly clear from the band’s lyrics. The Weezer influence is extremely clear in the satirical lyrics of latest single, ABC. Saving J will officially launch their debut album, This City Street, with an instore appearance in Tower Records, Dublin on 11 September before embarking on a nationwide tour. They play Baker Place on 24 September.

Visit www.savingj.com for more information and a chance to listen to some tracks off the album. Saving J are also on Facebook and you can check out their videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/savingj If you are in a band that is going to be the Next Big Thing or if you’ve discovered a band that is better than the best let us know by emailing sucommunications@ ul.ie

By Aoife Ní Raghallaigh If you’re into Indie-Pop then Those Dancing Days are the perfect band to put a smile your face and make you feel all warm inside as the nights get longer and the weather gets colder.

Those Dancing Days is a five piece girl band hailing from Stocklolm, Sweden. The band is comprised of Linnea Jönsson (vocals), Lisa Pyk (hammond organ), Rebecka Rolfart (electric guitar), Mimmi Evrell (bass guitar) and Cissi Efraimsson (drums). The band formed in 2005 while they were still in school and by 2007 they had quickly become one of the most talked about bands in Sweden. They were regularly featured on MTV and NME and were nominated for the best Swedish act award at the MTV Europe Music Awards.

They have since played a number of gigs around Europe gaining significant prominence in Sweden, Germany and the UK. The band released their self-titled debut E.P. in 2007 before being signed to Witchita Records alongside the likes of Bloc Party, Conor Oberst and Peter, Bjorn and John. In late 2008 they released their first full length album, In Our Space Hero Suits, which

received extremely positive reviews. The band has received many warranted comparisons to the heavy beats and lively tempos characteristic of the Northern Soul movement which grew out of the underground rhythm and dance scene of 1960’s British Mod scene.

They have also received comparisons to the likes of Blondie, The Attractions and The Slits. It is significant that Those Dancing Days have mainly been compared to bands of the 1960’s and the 1970’s rather than to other contemporary bands. While there is nothing amazingly innovative about their sound, it is timeless and they definitely have a sound that is distinctly different from other mainstream bands of the moment.

Whoever they sound like, it is clear that Those Dancing Days are something special. Their timeless, cheerful sound is sure to keep you smiling through the next few months as the days get darker and the assignments pile up.

For more information on the band check out: www.myspace.com/thosedancingdays.

19/08/2009 23:12:35

ow Were n K ’t n id D u o Y t a Th s 10 Song 1) Elvis Presley – Blue Suede Shoes (Carl Perkins) This song was released by Elvis Presley in 1956, just one year after the original artist, Carl Perkins, recorded it.

Despite Presley’s version being more famous than the original, the original actually did better in the charts.

2) Jeff Buckley – Hallelujah (Leonard Cohen) Leonard Cohen wrote Hallelujah in the late 1980s and is now the most covered Leonard Cohen song of all time.

Over 200 artists have covered the song in a number of different languages. Jeff Buckley recorded his cover in 1994 and it went on to become renowned in the music world.

3) Aretha Franklin – Respect (Otis Redding) Respect was originally released on the Otis Blue album

by Otis Redding in 1965 before Aretha Franklin made it her signature tune in 1967. Despite being a cover of a male written song, Franklin’s version was considered monumental for the feminist movement.

4) The Clash – I Fought The Law (The Crickets) This infamous song from 1979 was actually recorded 20 years earlier by The Crickets. The Clash’s cover has a much faster, heavier sound than the original folk version.

5) Soft Cell – Tainted Love (Gloria Jones) Tainted Love was originally recorded by northern soul singer Gloria Jones in 1964. Soft Cell released their synthpop cover as their second single in 1981 and it went on to top the charts in 17 different countries.

6) The Animals – The House of the Rising Sun Bob Dylan is often incorrectly credited as the writer of this song but the original writer is actually unknown.

Covers

The Animals released their version in the summer of 1964. It performed well in the charts and was only ever released as a single; it never featured on any of The Animals’ British albums.

7) Jimi Hendrix – All Along The Watchtower (Bob Dylan) All Along the Watchtower was recorded by Bob Dylan for his 1967 John Wesley Harding album and was later covered by numerous bands, including our own U2. Jimi Hendrix’s 1968 version was by far the most famous of all the covers.

8) Manfred Mann – Blinded by the Light (Bruce Springsteen) When Bruce Springsteen released Blinded by the Light in 1973 it didn’t even register on the charts. Four years later it was covered by Manfred Mann and topped the charts. Incidentally, this is Springsteen’s only number 1 hit as a writer.

9) The Monkees – I’m a Believer (Neil Diamond) This might not classify as a cover as some sources claim Neil Diamond wrote the song for The Monkees before deciding to also record it himself. Like many other songs on this chart, the song has been covered countless times by other artists.

10) No Doubt – It’s My Life (TalkTalk) It’s My Life was released by sythpop Brit band TalkTalk in 1984 and was re-released three times before it made into the charts at #13. In 2002 No Doubt released a cover of the song which was nominated for the Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with vocal at the 47th Grammy Awards.

atch

5 Music Videos to W

Modest Mouse – King Rat Heath Ledger came up with the concept for this video before his death in January 2008. Ledger conceived the video as a commentary on whale hunting off the coast of Australia and features whales hunting humans for pet food. See the video at: http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=DQLhWqek7i0 La Roux – Bulletproof Take a trip back to the 80s with this video for the third single from hot newcomer, La Roux. Be prepared for neon colours, retro patterns and crazy clothes. See the video at: http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=iOYufRHQSms Lady Gaga – Paparazzi The video for Paparazzi begins like a movie in which the heroine, Lady Gaga, is almost killed by her boyfriend.

32p_PULSE_Mag Limerick_240 x 170mm.indd 26-27

The rest of the video follows Lady Gaga getting revenge on her boyfriend and it gets very weird very quickly.

The video is definitely interesting and well worth a watch. See the video at: http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=1DSmvCutT9Q Paolo Nutini – Coming Up Easy Scottish lovely, Paolo Nutini, is back with a new voice, new album and a new video. Coming Up Easy is the second single off Nutini’s second album, Sunny Side Up. Don’t watch this video if you’re scared of freaky man sized rabbits. See the video at: http://www.youtube. com/watch?v=ifRlMXsvuAE Little Boots – Remedy This is the second video from Little Boots. The video in itself is fairly simple for the kaleidoscope effect is what makes it. See the video at: http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=McdqerXrwXE

Consistent, Cryptic

and Coming to Limerick!

The Codes talk to

Everybody loves a good coincidence and as luck would have it, this article begins with one. While visiting Paris, I happened to bump into an Irishman and we went for drinks. A few pubs later revealed he was lead guitarist for The Codes. Six months after, I was scrolling through Dolans’ gig listings and whom should I discover, but that very same Irishman, Raymond Hogge and his band, The Codes. So I rang him up.

The Codes was formed in 2007 and from the start, the Irish four piece united with a vision. “We got together, not just to play music, but to form a band with a unique sound and feel. We knew what we wanted to do,” says the Sligo man. “Our sound is electronic and bridges the gap between soundtrack and stadium rock. It’s goes from walkabout music to strong melodies and electro and retro synth.”

United in their approach, but what about influences?

‘We don’t have a joint musical influence… [but] we like bands with status and presence,’ he explains, ‘See U2 and what they can achieve with their live set-up! […] We certainly look up to U2.’ And this extends to the mixing studio, as The Codes already share New York-based mixer Greg Calbi with U2, Kings of Leon and Interpol.

Ray also cited Producer, Greg Haver’s influence. ‘He’s great! […] Greg reined in ideas and showed us how to achieve things we couldn’t have done ourselves.’

The Codes name is a strong and clear brand to have.

But how did it come to be? “We like cryptic messages,” he says. “This is obvious in our lyrics and our debut album ‘Trees Dream in Algebra’”. But there is the matter of a Leicester-based band with the same name.

What would Ray do if he ever met this band? “If we met our parallel selves the Universe would probably implode… Or we’d serve them with a court summons,” he jokes. “No we don’t see it as a problem. Maybe we should have a Mario Wii tournament to decide who

By Finn McDuffie owns the name?” Joking aside, the band has achieved some serious stuff, with two Oxegen performances, a supporting act for Keane in the O2, Dublin and Odyssey, Belfast and a recent sign up with EMI. “This all builds confidence and desire to achieve more,” he reveals, “But our biggest achievement is finishing the album… We were looking for a record deal over a few months, as we wanted creative control over the album. EMI seemed the most faithful, the most artist friendly… They liked and allowed us to retain our whole package.” The debut album ‘Trees Dream in Algebra’ goes on general release on 18 September and the single, ‘You Are Here’ on 4 September.

Past reviews are another thing going for The Codes.

“It’s amazing when even the harsher music reviewers are taken to you,” he admits, “it takes you back [and] it’s reassuring to know you’re going in the right direction.” Some reviews have said The Codes are “destined for greatness” (Cluas), “worth looking out for” (Virgin Music.com) and “one of the biggest bands of tomorrow” (The Irish Daily Star), so of course, Ray is “chuffed!”

“There’s been a lot of work behind the scenes,” he says, “The rehearsals and late nights till five in the morning for example. […] We rehearse 3 times a week for five hours. Hopefully this is reflected in the shows.”

So what can we expect at Dolans on 20 September?

“We’re just out of a meeting with the stage director,” he says excitedly, “The lighting and music are going to be a spectacle! […] It’ll be bright and powerful with a few hidden clues around the building for people to collect.” What exactly these clues are remains a secret.

“More on that closer the time,” he muses.

The Codes kick off at Dolans on Sunday 20 September at 8pm. Tickets are on sale now at €9.

19/08/2009 23:12:36

ENTS

Ten Seconds On… PJ Gallagher

Who is he: PJ Gallagher is an Irish stand up comedian from Dublin who rose to fame in 2005 with Naked Camera.

You might know him better as: Jake Stevens, Dirty Auld One or Mr Fixer.

Where else do I know him from?

PJ Gallagher has also appeared on Podge & Rodge: A Scare at Bedtime and BBC’s The I Hate Show.

What’s he been up to recently?

PJ travelled to America as Jake Stevens to try and make it big in Makin’ Jake.

PJ Gallagher will visit in UL. Keep an eye out for confirmed dates!

Recommended…

Cinema

DVD

Jennifer’s Body From the director of critically acclaimed director of Juno comes dark comedy and horror flick, Jennifer’s Body. Jennifer (Megan Fox) is like any other small town cheerleader until she is possessed by a demon and begins to murder the boys in her school. It is up to her best friend to kill her and end the horrific murders before tracking down the Satanic rock band who caused the possession in the first place.

Jennifer’s Body will be released at the end of October.

The Boat That Rocked The Boat That Rocked is based on a pirate radio station located on a boat in the North Sea in the 1960’s.

The film focuses on the station, Radio Rock, and it’s collection of mismatched DJs as they come up against a fearsome Government official who is hell bent on bringing an end to the beloved station.

The Boat That Rocked will be released on DVD on 7 September 2009.

The Twilight Saga: New Moon New Moon is the second film from the Twilight series

by Stephanie Meyer. After recovering from the vampire attack that almost killed her at the end of the Twilight film, Bella returns to Forks to celebrate her birthday with Edward and his family. While unwrapping a present she gets a paper cut. The sight of blood proves too much for the vampires who decide to leave Forks.

To ease her heartbreak over losing Edward Bella finds console in a reckless lifestyle and a deeper friendship.

Unfortunately, danger is never far away.

New Moon hits the cinemas in November.

Angels and Demons Angels and Demons is the film adaptation of Dan Brown’s first book. The film takes place after the events of the first film, The Da Vinci Code. In Angels and Demons symbologist Robert Langdon (Tom Hankls) returns to solve another murder in order to foil a terrorist attack against the Vatican.

Angel and Demons is released on DVD on 14 September 2009.

Neil Delamere

Comedian Neil Delamere will be making an exclusive trip to UL to showcase his super fast wit and humour.

Born in Offaly, Neil begin his comedy career at the 1999 Edinburgh Festival. Since then he has gone from strength to strength, working on staple favourite The Panel, and hosting Neil Delamere’s Just For Laughs as well as performing to sell out venues across the World.

Catch Neil Delamere peforming in UL during September before his highly anticipated Vicar Street shows in November.

Keep an eye on www.ulsu.ie for more more information about the gig and ticket prices.

Next month Jason Byrne and Colin Murphy will be bringing their antics to UL.

32p_PULSE_Mag Limerick_240 x 170mm.indd 28-29

19/08/2009 23:12:46

By Kelly O’Brien Metallica, for me, began at 9am on the 1st of August. It began when I awoke, tired and hungover, and crawled into the back seat of a blue Toyota. There were four of us making the long journey up to Dublin on a foggy Saturday morning, each one of slightly the worse for wear. Despite this, and the fact that I’ve seen Metallica four times before, everyone was buzzing with excitement and we had Metallica blasting on the stereo all the way. Little did we know that Metallica would be the last thing to play in that poor Toyota that we later found burnt out down by Bus Áras. That, however, is a completely separate and irate rant that has no place in a Metallica review.

We got out of the Toyota for the last time, left our stuff in the hotel and made our way to Marley Park. We eventually arrived in spite of underestimating just how long it would take a Dublin Bus (once we found it that is) to get to Marley Park. Having missed Mastodon, we were just in time to catch Alice in Chains rocking onto the stage with new (ish) frontman William DuVall I have to admit, I was slightly disappointed that Alice in Chains weren’t performing in the slot directly before Metallica.

They’ve been around for about 22 years now and have amassed a huge following in various countries. Since the death of previous front man Layne Staley, however, I think the popularity of Alice in Chains has decreased dramatically. I find this really, really sad as they are such a great talented band and new front man William has done a great job of filling some seriously epic shoes.

Most people have heard of them and would probably recognise a few of their songs, but people simply don’t care about them any more and, as much as I hate to admit it, their newest material won’t be enticing new fans to them anytime soon.

Next to the stage were Avenged Sevenfold who were formed a mere ten years ago and have since achieved a substantial amount of mainstream success in the music business. Prior to the concert I was totally and completely convinced that this band was not for me. I took every opportunity to mock their self-proclaimed genre of ‘New Wave American Heavy Metal’ and their ridiculously religious band name. I can say now that I was forced to eat my words in full. Avenged Sevenfold

32p_PULSE_Mag Limerick_240 x 170mm.indd 30-31

did nothing short of explode onto the stage and put on one hell of show. I was physically unable to take my eyes off of front man M. Shadows while their catchy lyrics and energy fuelled riffs gradually lured me over to their way of thinking. I knew I had officially turned right around the time that M Shadows pulled a random kid out of the crowd and got him to sing ‘Walk’ by Pantera.

After the unexpected revelation that was Avenged Sevenfold, nearly everyone in the crowd tried to cram themselves up to the barrier in what I like to call the pre-Metallica anticipation period. This was only to be expected and so I joined in wholeheartedly and eventually made my way right up to the front barrier where I paid for a great view by having my personal space utterly shattered. Things were quite uncomfortable for around thirty or forty minutes but this was quickly forgotten when Metallica eventually came to the stage. No matter how many times I see them live, I don’t think I’ll ever get over that tiny little giddy feeling in the base of my tummy just when I set my weary eyes on the God-like form that is Robert Trujillo.

Being totally honest, I can’t even remember the first song on the set list. I vaguely remember that Blackened was in there somewhere as were Unforgiven, Enter Sandman and Nothing Else Matters. The very last thing on my mind was writing a review of them and so I just soaked up the atmosphere and enjoyed it as much as I did the last time and the time before that...and the time before that too. If there’s one thing I’ve learned it’s that Metallica never get old. Not them, not their music, not their live performance, not ever. They are the measuring stick that all bands should be placed against and that no band from this day forth can ever live up to.

So my final words would be these; if you’re reading this then you clearly want to know what Metallica are like live. The only way you can actually get this information is to experience it yourself. I can pretty much guarantee that they’ll be back in Dublin next year so I suggest you clear your schedule now, just to be safe.

19/08/2009 23:12:51

32p_PULSE_Mag Limerick_240 x 170mm.indd 32

19/08/2009 23:12:51