Make sure theyre representing you. Use your vote.

Fri 24
th

Feb - Fri 2

nd

March

Vote online: www.kentunion.co.uk/elections

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Kent Union Leadership Elections 2012 2021 - The Candidates

A brief note from the InQuire editorial team:
The placement of each candidate for this wrap was arranged alphabetically by surname. Each candidate was asked to submit 100 words about their campaign to InQuire. Those statements that exceeded 100 words were cut at their word limit. These statements appear as they were received, and any grammatical or spelling errors are not due to InQuire editorial.

Paul Dunne Union President

Kent Union must be given back to the students; engaged students must be rewarded and those who are not must be given reasons to engage. Despite a democracy review and new zones Kent Union is out of touch. Structures are too formal and officers too wrapped up in bureaucratic nonsense to attend activities. Funding is limited and hard to access, facilities are few. University asks us to grow the number of societies and sports teams; they must match this with funding! I demand the university engage in online and on-campus conversations with students instead of making speeches and sending emails.

Tom Ritchie Union President

Hey, Im Tom Ritchie. Im standing for re-election to be Union President. This year I have secured an increase in funding for sports & societies, won on exam feedback for all students and worked to make sure money stays in students pockets. If re-elected, I will get the University to provide more jobs on campus for students, decrease prices in all outlets and work to get all core textbooks turned into e-books. For more information on what I have done and what I will do if re-elected please read my full manifesto and vote Tom Ritchie #1 for Union President.

Alex Temple Union President

I passionately believe that I can shape a Union to meet the needs of ALL of you. I can solve the problems that the Union fails to address. I will start with: Weekly drop in sessions with the Union leadership for YOU to tell us what you want! No formality, no appointment, fast results! Genuinely not for profit campus shops, price checked against supermarkets. Regular transport with Medway for real Campus integration! A Societies only Social Space. Equipped to meet the societys needs currently completely ignored! A support line for confidential support and advice to tackle all social discrimination! Thanks!

Not sure who to vote for? Find your match!

visit www.votematch.org.uk to find your match in the leadership elections!

Stella Fasusi VP Welfare

Hi, Im Stella! Vote Me As Your Vice-President Welfare! Elect me! Because I have the heart & passion for the protection of YOUR RIGHTS, the desire to improve the quality of student life by ensuring the right support is offered to every student and your needs are met! I will focus on! - Ensuring YOUR VOICE is heard! - Improving Student/Resident relationships. - Ensuring that every student is represented. - Fighting the cap on student housing. - Continuing the fight against the cuts! - Promoting well-being & respect throughout our campuses. Vote Stella for VP Welfare, why? Because I CARE!

Colum McGuire VP Welfare

Higher Education is about to change forever. From September students will be paying 9,000 and Universities will treat students more like customers and less like partners. I fear the focus will be getting new students through the door rather than aiding us through our degrees and student support will be undermined. Student welfare must become a priority more than ever. Ive proven myself to be an officer that delivers positive & effective change for students winning not just locally but nationally. Let me build on my record and continue to lead a union that delivers. No time to pause. www.columforwelfare.wordpress. com

Emily Morrey-McGrath VP Welfare

Im Emily and Im running for VP Welfare because I am passionate about your welfare. I will improve the 60% satisfaction rating at the medical centre. I will campaign for your housing rights in Canterbury and make sure the housing accreditation scheme is tailored for you. I will work with the VP Education to make sure the tutor system reflects your individual needs. Lastly there are some residents on campus who are always overlooked; the rabbits. So Ill throw in some carrots too! Look out for the welfare washing line around campus, and hang your welfare worries out to dry.

Catherine Moss VP Welfare

Welfare Issues? Keep calm, call Welfare Woman! Im Catherine Moss and heres why you need ME for YOUR Welfare VP! I recognise the welfare concerns that are faced by students at Kent today. I know that students want to know how the University are looking out for them during their time here. I will prioritise YOUR health. I will prioritise YOUR well-being. I will prioritise YOUR housing needs. I will prioritise YOUR safety. I wont ignore YOUR issues. I wont ignore YOUR voice. Want to know more? Find my manifesto on facebook at Keep Calm and Get Moss.

Stephanie Robinson VP Welfare

Welfare isnt just about practical or medical needs, its about keeping you happy and confident too. Prevention is better than the cure, so I intend to introduce a range of peer-led, informal and accessible services to support you before you get too stressed. Read my Grannifesto to hear more! I will also work with landlords to agree a date after Housing Week to start house viewings to prevent students feeling pressured to decide before they receive adequate advice. Im also delivering a range of fun and unusual events this year for students and locals to help us feel more connected.

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InQuire
visit our website at - www.inquirelive.co.uk
Issue 7.8

23rd February 2012.

acta prompts more censorship protests

Demonstrators gathered in London to protest against ACTA. Alice Bryant THE president of the European parliament, Martin Schulz, has criticised the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA), arguing that I dont find it good in its current form. Opposition to ACTA is rife, with thousands taking to the streets across Europe in order to protest against an agreement that has been described by critics as a wolf in sheeps clothing. ACTA proposes to standardise international copyright protection measures online and has been likened to the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) because of its emphasis on preventative measures against the misuse of copyrighted online material. It fundamentally aims to protect the music and film industry by curbing trade of counterfeited physical goods. However, this will come at the price of our own online liberties. Those opposed to the act are concerned that security measures revealing ISP addresses will threaten the online privacy of the general public, and that the measures will be used as a means for the government to control internet content. Many are wary of the secretive methods used in ACTA negotiations, which to some acted as an obvious attempt to avoid public participation and scrutiny. However, supporters of the agreement insist that the legislation is necessary in light of a flagging entertainment and pharmaceutical industry and argue that ACTA will not lead to the creation of new laws.

Photograph by Nathan Lucking / NIL Photography.

Despite the fact that the agreement has been signed by 22 EU member states, Schulz claims that the individual rights of internet users are inadequately supported by the agreement, and that a necessary balance between copyright protection and personal liberties must be found. Following the surge of protests across Europe and disruption to several government websites, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said that his country would wait for sufficient consultation from the EU parliament before taking definite action. Germany has also confirmed that it will be withholding ratification of the treaty, along with the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Latvia. These countries will wait until after the European Parliament

has voted in June before making a decision. Other government representatives have been skeptical of the agreement, and earlier this month Helena Drnovsek Zorko, Solvenias ambassador to Japan, apologised for her carelessness in signing the treaty on behalf of our country. Many EU parliamentarians were angered by the fact that the agreement was pushed through in an undemocratic way, and this has severely damaged the levels of support for ACTA. Parliament's international trade committee will discuss the agreement later this month, where it must then reach a decision that it will put to the rest of Parliament. The full vote is scheduled for June.

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News
Editors Note
Welcome to the InQuire Elections Special! We feel that it is really important to raise awareness of these elections, and encourage every one of our readers to vote- after all, these will be the people that run the Union for the next year. Were always keen to hear every point of view, so why not join our online debate on whether the Sabbs are worth their wage? It will give you the opportunity to really question how the Union works and ensure that it is doing its best for you. Follow online, on Facebook and on Twitter. Daniela

police release e-fit of robbery suspect

Natalie Tipping POLICE have released an e-fit of one of the two men thought to have robbed a student house on Downs Road, Canterbury in late January. The e-fit depicts the first of the two suspects, described as; white, aged between 20 and 25 years old and of broad build. He was reportedly wearing a beige jacket on the night of the crime. The second suspect, who is also yet to be identified, is described as; black, of a similar age, and bearded. The incident occurred on the night of 23rd January, between 11pm and 11.15pm, when the two men forced their way into a student house on Downs Road. The men are said to have stolen three laptops, mobile phones and headphones. As Downs Road is at the core of student housing for UKC students, many other students living on the road are now hoping that the men are found and brought to order. If anybody has any information, the Canterbury Police are welcoming any new leads on this case. Contact the police with any helpful information by calling 101 and quoting reference number ZY/002493/12. Right; Police E-fit of the suspect.

2011/12 Editorial contacts:

Laurie MacDonald Chairman chairman@inquiremedia.co.uk Daniela Prataviera - Editor newspaper.editor@ inquiremedia.co.uk Jayna Rana - IQ Editor iq.editor@inquiremedia.co.uk Laurie MacDonald - News newspaper.news@ inquiremedia.co.uk Elspeth Hagen- Comment newspaper.comment@ inquiremedia.co.uk Olivia Marsh - IQ Features newspaper.features@ inquiremedia.co.uk Anusha Tabari - IQ Culture newspaper.culture@ inquiremedia.co.uk Alyson Claffey IQ Entertainment newspaper.entertainment@ inquiremedia.co.uk Jack Bishop - Sports newspaper.sport@ inquiremedia.co.uk Daniel White - Website Editor website.editor@inquiremedia. co.uk Sarah Parsons - Web News website.news@inquiremedia. co.uk Joel Goodman - Web Comment website.comment@ inquiremedia.co.uk Nina Collins- Web IQ Features website.features@ inquiremedia.co.uk Alice Bryant - Web IQ Entertainment website.entertainment@ inquiremedia.co.uk Jack Massie - Web Sport website.sport@inquiremedia. co.uk

met commander guilty of corruption

Adam Kirk-Smith A high ranking commander in the London Metropolitan Police force has been found guilty of corruption, and jailed for three years. Ali Dizaei, a 49 year old born in Iran, who joined Thames Valley police in 1986, will likely never serve on the force again. The verdict came on 13th February, in a retrial. The charge relates to a controversial case involving a web designer named Waad al-Baghdadi. In the original verdict, given on the 9th of February 2010, just over two years ago, he was charged with arresting Mr al-Baghdadi with No Real Evidence that this young man had committed any crime on that day. (Gaon Hart of the Crown Prosecution Service). The dispute occurred in Hammersmith Road, West London, in July 2008, and related to money Mr alBaghdadi felt he was owed for designing a website for the Commander. Ali Dizaei claimed that he made the arrest after he was poked in the chest with the metal mouthpiece of a shisha pipe. This allegation was established by the jury to be unfounded, and they heard that he had in fact inflicted the injuries upon himself in order to frame Mr al-Baghdadi. He was found guilty of misconduct and attempting to pervert the course of justice. Ali Dizaei was sacked by the Metropolitan Police in March 2010, after the verdict had been given, and he served 15 months in prison. The case proved complicated however, and over a year later, in May 2011, his conviction was overturned, and the court of appeal ordered a retrial. In September 2011, he claimed he had been reinstated, after winning his appeal against dismissal. However, hours later, on the same day, his employers announced that he had been suspended on full pay. This suspension has lasted until present day, and although he has, at the time of writing, yet to be officially dismissed, the verdict from the retrial makes that very probable. Ali Dizaei is a controversial figure, previously suspended from duty in 2001 after suspicion of corruption, and reinstated two years later. He is extremely outspoken, and has criticised the police force in the past for being racist and discrimination, notably in a 2007 autobiography. The judge who gave this final sentence, Mr Justice Saunders, said he had seriously breached public trust. The damage this incident has caused Mr Dizaei is great, but that done to the integrity of the force, and the community he served and represented may be far greater.

Met commander Ali Dizaei is found guilty of corruption.

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News
sun staff arrested for bribery
Charlotte Wright BRITISH police have arrested five senior staff members of The Sun daily newspaper. This comes following initial arrests in January of four current and four former staff at the tabloid. They are being investigated in relation to journalists making payments to police officers. These arrests form part of the ongoing Operation Elveden an enquiry into news gathering practices. The new arrests come after News Corporations Management and Standards Committee (MSC) passed information to the police, a move which angered many staff members and led to speculation of a witch hunt amongst journalists. However, News Corp said in a statement: The MSC provided the information to the 'Elveden' investigation which led to today's arrests ... News Corporation remains committed to ensuring that unacceptable news gathering practices by individuals in the past will not be repeated." The arrests are said to include the Suns deputy editor, picture editor, chief reporter and two other senior staff. Eight arrests were made in total, including a Surrey police officer and a member of the armed forces. All were later released on bail. Staff members arrested in January remain suspended and the same fate it likely to befall those involved in the recent arrests. These events have raised questions as to the future of The Sun as these malpractice allegations echo previous events. Last year The Suns sister paper, the News of the World, was shut by Rupert Murdoch following the discovery that reporters had hacked the voicemails of both celebrities and victims of crime. This also resulted in a parliament summons of both Rupert and James Murdoch to explain the actions of the paper. However, as the arrests included no members of the production team, an edition of The Sun was printed for Monday 13th, following the events of the weekend. These five arrests bring the total of individuals detained to more than twenty as part of Operation Elveden, one of three police investigations into newsgathering practices. It is reported Rupert Murdoch will fly to London to meet with staff on the topic of recent events.

greece still in debt crisis

Perpe Brade FIGURES released earlier this week about growth within the Eurozone have revealed that the Greek economy contracted by 7% in the last quarter of 2011. This is not good news for the struggling country, which has also seen a sharp increase of 20% in unemployment levels. Governments cuts have already proved unfavourable, and on Sunday thousands of Greek citizens took to the streets of Athens in protest, in scenes repeated across the country. Several historical buildings, cafes and cinemas were burnt down, after violence escalated. Greece needs to repay 14.5bn to its lenders on the 20th of March and have appealed to the Eurozone for help. However, the Eurozone want Athens to make further budget cuts of 325m and Greece to restructure its economy, before they agree to the bailout of 130m. The decision is expected to be announced on Monday. The Greek cabinet have already approved austerity measures including: 15,000 public sector jobs cuts, lowering the minimum wage by 21% from 751 euros per month to 600 Euros and trying to negotiate a debt write-off with the banks. Financial officials want to delay parts or all of the bailout because they are concerned that Greece will not stick to its austerity commitments after the April elections. A failure to pay its debt means that Greece will face bankruptcy, and it is feared that a default could endanger the stability of Europe, and possibly lead to a breakup of the euro. The UK holds $14.6bn of Greek debt and is relatively small in comparison to those of Germany and France which totals over $90bn when combined. A main concern for the UK is that any effects on the Greek economy would increase the UKs exposure to Irish debt which is larger.

Nathan Sparkes

view from westminster NUS plans new protests

Chris Wallis In a recent press interview, NUS has stated that it wants a public debate on student funding issues. In order to gain this debate NUS has declared that it will openly encourage a week of action. The Week of Action (12th-16th March) will take place on campuss across the country to demonstrate to Vice Chancellors and principals that the high fees, hidden course costs and a lack of bursaries are pricing students out of education. The NUS wants higher-education to be clear on course costs and the government to come clean on the future of the university education system. The national union hopes for a range of actions to take place on every campus across the country to send this message to those that control higher and future education. They claim that the coalition government is destroying our higher education system as we know it, behind closed doors with no parliamentary mandate. However, on the 14th March, students will boycott lectures that on average cost them 30 a time to get involved in local on-campus activities to demonstrate their opposition to the coalitions plans. Do you remember the last time? It brought the country to a standstill and thousands of students were kettled, in one of the most shocking public displays in recent years. The NUS hailed this as a huge success, one that gave Parliament food for thought. The Come Clean campaign guide has been designed to help students unions generate ideas for a range of local actions that are appropriate to the institution to take place during the week of action and national walkout. Actions on campuss will be supported by a range of online campaigning actions developed by NUS nationally. Any questions please contact campaigns@nus.org.uk

The biggest news this week: top Liberal Democrat cabinet minister resigns as his ex-wife threatens to bring down his career with speeding points allegations. Chris Huhne is perhaps not the first politician you would expect to be involved in a scandal. Considered a decent guy, the senior Lib Dem is thought of as quite bright and is respected around Westminster. He is a classic Lib Demgrey haired and middle-aged; centre ground, a little dull, and of a generally unthreatening demeanour. That's a reputation he's fostered effectively through several unsuccessful leadership bids and a knack for being thoroughly uninteresting. That and his position as Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change; possibly the dullest portfolio ever held by anyone. But then they say that power changes people, and sure enough it broke last year that Huhne of all ministers, Secretary of State for high gas prices, had been having an affair with his Public Relations advisor. The really bad news for Huhne then came as his ex-wife, none too pleased with her ex-husband's extra-marital activities, accused the MP of passing off penalty driving points that he had accumulated to her. These alleged events took place a number of years ago, as Huhne feared for his career when he took on speeding points and, his ex-wife claims; he asked to have them attributed

to her license instead of his. The case has not been settled yet, but as it has dragged on in court Huhne has felt it appropriate to resign from his cabinet position. This is not good news for the Lib Dems. Huhne, while perhaps a little to the left of Clegg politically, was generally considered an ally of the coalition project. His resignation, following that of David Laws almost immediately after the general election, has made it two Lib Dem cabinet resignations now. If he's not careful Clegg will soon run out of MPs to replace them. In other news, Health Secretary Andrew Lansleys career remains on life support as his plans to reform the NHS with the Health and Social Care bill continue to attract more criticism than praise. The Lib Dems were never fully behind the bill in the first place, but David Cameron refuses to give it up. Rumour has it that at a cabinet meeting last week Cameron slammed his fist against the table and insisted it was driven through, as ministers raised their objections. Whatever happens with the bill, the forecast doesnt look good for Lansleys career.

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Comment

Are Sabbatical Officers Worth Their Wages?

Yes No
role to represent all these students and more. This can be seen in that in 20102011 we spent over 580 hours representing students on University committees. Indeed representing students on university committees, getting wins and communicating ideas through the right channels are some of our main responsibilities. We also took 500 students to the national demonstration, successfully lobbied the Canterbury MP to abstain on the vote on EMA, sent 2500 signed postcards from students to local MPs against tuition fees and won 200,000 extra funding for core text books. Additionally, the sabbatical officers are working towards; a retail review ensuring we lower the prices in our on campus shops, a sports review to improve how we help manage our sports clubs, increasing society storage across campus, a fully extended late night bus service to aid in student welfare, free sports membership and bus pass included in the first year accommodation cost, a personal tutor, more money in bursaries for students and lobbying the university to publish their hidden course costs or abolish them, among others. The sabbatical team are elected by the student body to work for students, to represent everyone and ensure your voices are heard. I am proud to be part of the sabbatical team this year and the record for students we have established. The calculated value we have won for students this year alone is 25 million. Ryan Laird THE fact that such a small percentage of students vote in Sabbatical elections should tell us that frankly, most students are happy. Theyre not persecuted. They dont get abused. They might be a bit miserable about the level of work, but thats it. The sabbaticals insist on talking as if they represent the students. Kent Union makes a positive change for almost 20,000 people you say? I think they really need to get over their egos. Nationwide, on average, only 12% of students vote in student union elections. 12%? Hardly a mandate! Frankly, I dont see that theres a need for student politicians. I certainly dont see that theres a need to pay some of them more than 18K/year. Some workers need unions... but students? A student is a cross between a schoolchild and a customer. The wages of officers is outrageous, and is a complete waste of money. Each one of those officers costs far more than a PhD student for a full years salary. Ridiculous! I have absolutely no problem with a union that has full-time employees, so long as its a union that actually does things that a *union* is supposed to be doing. If people want to play around at pretend politics, and cry or moan about non-issues, then it should be on a purely voluntary basis. Tell me, what do student unions do that couldnt be done just as effectively by either: a) The university b) Volunteer students Campaigning for equal rights for a society/sports club? Well, it tends to be Hannah Davis VP Sports The Sabbatical Officers and Kent Union have had numerous wins for the students this year, some of which include; getting WIFI rolled out campus wide, winning on exam feedback for all students, increasing the fund for sports and societies by over 10%, the beginning of a late night bus service, an 18 million prestigious extension to the library, a 4.8 million extension to the sporting facilities, remodelling to the Tyler court steps to make the safer, better lighting on Eliot Footpath, an increase in student employment through our outlets paying out a total of 396,000 back into the pockets of our students, increased the societies development fund for next year, provided student placements in University outlets, increasing the accessibility of the Gulbenkian for student lead performances as well as creating a kit deal with an external company to provide all of our sports kit. This year has seen an increase in our membership and on the figures from the 2010 2011 Impact Report, which showed we helped run 229 clubs and societies with 9,177 members. We had 1,799 student volunteer through Kent Union logging over 46,146 hours of volunteering, Our advice centre helped over 4,979 students and over 500 students in leadership roles within clubs and societies. It is unquestionably the sabbatical officers student newspapers and not politicians that do the most of that. Helping new students settle in? Thats all easily possible to do with volunteers. Anyone willing to wear a brightly coloured T-shirt and help the new kids settle in? Job done. Sure, I accept theres a need to manage student feedback to courses, and so on, but course representatives exist for that (and, frankly, what students think of a course is mostly irrelevant). I accept there is a need to arrange entertainment and whatnot, for those that want it. There are plenty of club social secretaries who do that work as a volunteer basis, though. No need for a paid job there. There *is* a need for course representatives and social secretaries and whatnot. Fine. If you have them, you might as well elect them. Fine. Its just a glorified Form Captain or Head Girl anyway. Im just saying that that is the limit of what student bodies need to do. Beyond that, I find it irritating how the Union continues to send almost e-mail after e-mail about The Venue and other Union nights out when many such as I, have very little interest in this. Granted, some may well want to know about such events but in my view a Union shouldnt be there simply to provide bars and night clubs. Their policies are surely what matter more? They are paid a considerable amount of money and personally I want them to communicate what exactly they are paid for. As a democracy, they should be accountable by us, their members. As with MPs, in the same regard they should make their expenses known. All I see is a wasting of money which could directly go to far better causes: Scholarships to ensure the worst-off can get through university.

Continue the debate online at www.inquirelive.co.uk

Human Rights v.s. National Security

Tom Vine ON 8 August, it was reported in the Guardian that Prime Minister, David Cameron and Home Secretary, Theresa May, are pushing for the deportation of Abu Qatada, suspected of inciting terrorism, to Jordan. This followed a Special Immigration Appeals Commission (SIAC) court ruling granting Abu Qatada bail after spending a total of 10 years in prison in the UK. Described in the press as Osama Bin Ladens right-hand man in Europe, many in Britain fear Qatada is a massive threat to national security. Yet, a recent European Court of Human Rights ruling, aside from the SIAC ruling granting him bail, blocked his deportation to Jordan where he was originally detained. This ruling had many questioning the reasons for Qatada being allowed to stay in this country whilst on bail, with David Cameron and Theresa May echoing the majority view that Qatadas release is a threat to our security. Whilst on the surface releasing a suspected terrorist may seem dangerous, the current circumstances suggest otherwise. What many are choosing to ignore is that Qatada is under a 22-hour curfew and will be under constant police surveillance. Are we really going to be under threat from a man who is confined to his home for all but 2 hours in a day? Whats more, Qatada has himself allegedly had his human rights violated by the Jordanian authorities during questioning which the British government may well have known about. And this is not the only time the British government have been accused of being complicit in the torture of suspected terrorists. Abdel Hakim Belhadj, a man prominent in the fight against Gaddafi, has recently accused the British government of deporting him to Libya knowing hed be tortured by the regime. Shaker Aamer, a British resident detained at Guantnamo, has also accused the British of turning a blind eye to his torture. He claims MI6 agents were present during his torture at the Bagram airbase prison in 2002. The current debate should not be about whether Qatada should be deported. This issue encompasses a wider problem of human rights. If we, as British citizens, argue that Qatadas presence is damaging to our human rights, then we should also consider his human rights. We should consider the fact that, in a democracy like ours, human rights are supposedly universal. As a beacon of democracy, the British government should not be accused of complicity in the torture of British citizens like Shaker Aamer and Abdel Hakim Belhadj. Britain should not be ignoring an ECHR ruling ordering the government not to deport Qatada to Jordan because of risks of torture. Britain should be defending Qatadas human rights, whether hes a suspected terrorist or not, because they are the values we claim to defend.

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Comment

Vandalism, Violence Future of The Monarchy and Destruction

Oliver Clark Alex Brownbridge THROUGHOUT Greeces capital the stench of rebellion, resistance and burning circled like their overhanging and impending national debt. Athens was alight with fireworks, vandalism and controversy in the wake of the new austerity bill approved by the Greek governments elite that sees unprecedented government cuts demanded from the International Monetary Fund in exchange for 130bn of bailout money. Supposedly what is required to save the eurozone debt crisis? Protestors in their tens of thousands actively and aggressively opposed the Government cuts; petrol bombing buildings and vandalising banks whilst police officers retaliated with gallons of tear gas. Although the Greek Prime Minister explained that vandalism, violence and destruction have no place in a democratic country and wont be tolerated, citizens are now left fearing for their countrys stability, their foggy future and ultimately their safety as reports of casualties, currently 170, continue to roll in. The ultimatum offered by the IMF to receive the bailout fund, included Greek reforms such as: A public sector job cull of 15,000 with the long term view to cut ten times as many Heavy labour law reform to allow easier hiring and firing of new employees Minimum wage cuts by 20% from 751 a month to 600 Estimated to save 325bn nationwide, these reforms are seen as a necessity to set the foundations for the reform and recovery of the economy, or so Lucas Papademos, PM, believes. Hence, by enforcing such cuts the furAS the festivities for the Queens Diamond Jubilee get under way, her 60year reign must be considered one of survival. She has been at the helm, steering the monarchy from its stuffy 19th century model into a monarchy for the modern age. Yet the question of whether the monarchy is still relevant, and whether the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth realms should finally put to rest this relic of the past, perseveres. Should Queen Elizabeth II be the last monarch? The Queens reign has been far from secure, the 1990s saw the entire institution of the monarchy implode on itself. The Queens Annus Horribilis in 1992 saw the royal family dragged through the dirt as the royal marriages broke down. Further controversy came over the payment for repairs following the Windsor Castle fire, which ultimately led to the decision for the monarch to pay tax. There was a growing image of an uncaring, out of touch and irrelevant monarchy. This perception was exacerbated by hysteria following the death of Diana, Princess of Wales in 1997. Yet in recent years the monarchy has risen, like a phoenix from the ashes, to show its renewed importance in our country. The most common reason given for why we should keep our monarchy is the tourism that is generated from keeping this archaic organisation. The British royalty are arguably the most well known monarchy in the world. Buckingham Palace is the top tourist attraction in London, and royal events, like last years royal wedding, saw all the pomp and ceremony of Britain beamed to 2 billion viewers around world. But the monarchys role is far more significant than a mere ornament. The Queens historic visit to Ireland last year for ex-

ther capital signed over to Greece from the IMF in a healthy 130bn sized cheque can pay off the most pressing debts, enforce the above reforms and ensure future stability with Europes problem child. Though brash and understandably concerning for those on the minimum wage or publicly employed, these measures are broadly considered to be the next logical step given the unimpressive return to copious billions of Euros thrown at the problem by Europes governments in recent times. No one is kidding themselves. Effects of these reforms and the extra bailout fund, drip-fed from the IMFs bank account much like pocket money, will not be felt immediately nor perhaps will we ever be able to accurately measure these reforms achievements. But some things are for sure; these measures were required, they will aid a very long term recovery but most importantly they may ensure Greece does not default on international debt and pull other economies into their inconvenient predicament.

ample, proved to lay to rest past conflicts and secure a strong friendship between the two countries. This could not have happened had we sent over a politician, like David Cameron. But what about the future, what if Prince Charles becomes King? Like other members of the royal family, the Prince of Wales has been involved in various charities. He is head of The Princes Trust, a charitable trust that offers practical and financial help to young people with troubled backgrounds. The Trust has helped more than 600,000 young people since 1976. Charless ecological concerns would also mark him out as a modern monarch. The future of the monarchy certainly looks brighter now than it did ten years ago, and the new Duke and Duchess of Cambridge look set to secure the institution for another generation.

Why Flying In Britain Is Snow Joke

Kerry Sloane FOR the last few years now, England has been experiencing the harsh weather conditions of snow and ice, yet every year there seems little improvement in Heathrows handling of the conditions. Of course, 2012 was no exception with 41% of Heathrows flights cancelled, 30% of those having been cancelled before any snow had even dropped. Many people consider flying to be stressful and irritating at the best of times. Long queues, constant security checks and second-rate food do not equate to the most enjoyable of experiences, but throw in a snowstorm and Londons Heathrow Airport seems to melt into disarray. This year, once again, we were hit by the snow and once again Heathrow was unable to handle the pressure, resulting in a cancelation of over half its flights. BAA, the airports operator, decided to reduce the flight schedule in advance of the pre-empted snowfall for the first weekend of February. A mere 58% of the typical volume of flights took off, while 500 were grounded, alongside a colossal 18,000 travellers plans disrupted. Passengers have criticized the decision as many incurred costs as a result, whilst others were forced to spend an uncomfortable night at the airport. Several Heathrow flights were diverted including one from Los Angeles being forced to land in Spain- whilst Barcelona may seem the more attractive of the two, customers were far from impressed with the extensive detour imposed upon them. Nevertheless, BAA was adamant they made the right choice, Our snow plan has worked far better than in previous years and the airport is getting back to normal. Perhaps there is some truth in this statement, as in December 2010 the airport was brought to a complete standstill for numerous days on account of the snowfall. However, after spending over 30 million on increasing Heathrows number of snowploughs, from 68 to 185, one would think the airport would be in a more capable position. Is BAA simply not bothered to deal with the problem seriously and effectively? In other parts of the world such as Copenhagen and Germany, whose temperatures plummeted to a freezing -27C, no airport disruptions occurred. In

contrast, Heathrow was experiencing weather some 25 degrees warmer, yet still managed to create disorder. Helsinki airport even has its very own snow desk to cope with these situations and Sweden is used to its routine plan of snow chains and sand gritting whenever severe snow appears. Although such Scandinavian countries are generally thought of as more wintry, surely the amount of snow falling year after year in England indicates that we too should be prepared for the annual snowfall. Snow fall in Britain has clearly become an annual occurrence which airports must learn to handle. Chaos does not need to ensue, BAA needs to face the challenges and endeavour to fulfill their customers wishes: to make travel as simple and relaxing as possible.

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Interview

raising awareness of eating disorders

This week is Eating Disorders Awareness Week. In order to spread the word about this week, Newspaper Editor, Daniela Prataviera, caught up with Laura Rutherford, a Young Ambassador for the eating disorder charity, Beat, to find out more and dispel a few of the myths surrounding eating disorders.
What is the main aim of this week? What does Beat hope it achieves? The aim of this week is to raise awareness of eating disorders. People often mistake them for nothing more than dangerous dieting, but they are in fact serious mental illnesses. The week hopefully helps the general public to better understand the conditions and tells those suffering that there is help for them out there. The key message of our campaign this year is break the silence so many people suffer in isolation, they can be ashamed and afraid to reach out, but it shouldnt be this way. Hopefully we can help more people to speak out about their experiences to try and break the taboo that surrounds these illnesses. As well as trying to inform the public, Beat hopes to improve the medical treatment of eating disorders. During this week, there will be conferences and events going on where medical experts will be able to talk to their peers, as well as sufferers, to better understand these conditions and hopefully improve how they are treated and diagnosed. What sorts of services do Beat offer, and how do these help those suffering? The biggest thing that they offer is support. They have a helpline and various chat forums that sufferers can use to talk about their problems and receive advice from trained professionals. The forums are also there to provide advice and counselling for the families and friends of sufferers, who often need just as much help coming to terms with the illness as the sufferer themselves.The biggest expense for Beat is training. Each of their call centre operators has to be trained to help anyone that calls them; eating disorders are secretive illnesses and its often difficult for the sufferer to talk about and be honest about what theyre going through, so those running the helpline have to be trained to help break down the walls that sufferers build up around themselves. Thanks to the publicity drawn up by people such as the late Isabelle Caro, surely there is enough public interest and knowledge about these conditions? You would think so, but unfortunately not. Disorders such as anorexia and bulimia are well documented, but still often considered to be something that affects only celebrity-conscious teenage girls. Its simply not true. For example, Beat is trying to get more and more GPs to recognise eating disorders, establish a faster diagnosis and get people help more quickly. Its also important to recognise eating disorders in men, as these often go completely ignored. There is much more of a stigma attached to this, but, like in women, male eating disorders need to be caught early in order to give the best chance of a speedy recovery. There is a great campaign, Men Get Eating Disorders Too (mengetedstoo.org) for anyone that is looking for extra information, and BBC Inside Out recently did a really good, informative piece on this, if any of your readers are interested. There are also plenty of disorders that arent as well known, such as Binge Eating disorder and Exercise disorders, which often go unnoticed until the damage has been done. Mentally, they are just as serious as anorexia and bulimia, just in different manifestations. They can stem from feelings of worthlessness, lack of control and feeling that you are not good enough to take care of yourself. As an ambassador for Beat, how much support do you feel there is at UKC for sufferers? Not enough, to be honest. The Medical Centre closed its NHS-ran eating disorder clinic at the beginning of the year, which is pretty devastating. For sufferers, university can be the catalyst; its a new environment, youre independent for the first time and it can be very stressful. When I moved to Canterbury, I tried to find a help group but there only appears to be a general one for the area, and not one that addresses the issues that could affect student sufferers. However, it is important that the GPs at the Medical Centre are professionals and will be able to help. Its not just a university problem though. The NHS is having to cut back so much that, in my experience, you have to be nearly dying of symptoms before you are seen to. I was turned away from my local GP three times before I was finally referred to Mental Health Services. Even then, sufferers can be waiting six to eight months before an appointment, during which they have a chance to destroy themselves. What kinds of signs are there for friends and families to watch out for? Firstly, its important to note that not all ill people are thin, and not all thin people are ill. Just because a friend has recently lost or gained weight does not necessarily mean they are ill. It will be more worrying signs, such as isolating themselves, refusing to eat in public and allowing what, when and how they eat dictate their lives. Its a matter of looking for habits or patterns; everyone has days where they eat too much or too little, but are they doing it often and getting stressed when they cannot perform their certain ritual? How did you become involved with Beat? I became an ambassador because Beat helped me when I was diagnosed with various eating disorders as a teenager. Like most mental health problems, the specific illness is hard to diagnose; I was initially told I had anorexia, but when your weight gets to a certain level, the diagnosis can change and this makes it difficult to know which treatment approach to take. But I frequently used the Beat chat forums to talk through what I was experiencing, and I wanted to give something back to the charity. Im now on the road to recovery and, although Ill probably always encounter problems with my anorexia, and have to guard against it, Im feeling more optimistic about the future than ever before. I want anyone out there who is suffering, or knows someone who is suffering that they are not on their own. Eating disorders are incredibly isolating, and its important that everyone knows that there is help out there. Please dont wait until you feel that you are ill enough; get in touch, you can get better. If you are affected by these issues and want support, or would like more information, please check out the Beat website, www.b-eat.co.uk. The helplines are open Monday to Friday 10.30am to 8.30pm and Saturday 1 to 4.30pm.

Adult helpline - 0845 634 1414 Youth helpline - 0845 634 7650 Email help@b-eat.co.uk

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Editorial

we need to eat grandma!

there! See, were already having fun!)actually, I think those brackets prove Joel Goodman my point quite well, including my total lack of maturity. Website Comment Editor As communication with our friends and other probably important relations demands more use of text, In an ill-fated almost-relationship, I implore you to get creashe said that I was a wordsmith. Now, tive and have some fun with language. I know what youre thinking; but Joel, Its pretty versatile and can take a bit of wed much rather hear about the rela- abuse, if done in the right way. I rememtionship because itll probably be fun- ber back in Year 8 English lessons when I nier. You are most definitely right. would be providing new words for those Despite that, today, children of all ages, that already existed. My excuse? Well well be talking about language! Boo/ap- they make more sense! Hey, someones plause as appropriate. got to come up with new words, right? I I take pride in my writing. I like to dont see why it shouldnt be you or me. think that I give it due care, although my So now youre thinking Okay, Joel, so I handwriting is forming a several page- can win at Scrabble easier, but thats sitlong complaint on that issue. Regard- uational at best. Youre rightwhat we less, I dont see language as being bor- need now is grammar! Unfortunately, a ing, but as a creative potential generally lot of people are mistaught grammatical untapped and unfulfilled. Think of it as rules and dont really get them. Whilst it those play-pens filled with balls (steady makes sentences such as We need to eat grandma! amusing, theres a good bet that grandma may start to get a bit concerned when you keep texting her and there doesnt happen to be much food left in the house. Hopefully Ive gone some way to disproving the myth that if you use language to its fullest extent, you are a sad, lonely person, up-tight about those Facebook status updates that consist of n i wuz lyk omg fml :-)!!!!!, who probably spends all day playing video games. Besides kindly asking you to stop looking through my window, Id like to emphasise that writing is fun. Other than, of course, those agonising hours you spend writing that poem to the person you love. Not that I have experience on that matter. At all. None. Zero. Nil. Alright, well maybe I havent dispelled that myth. I ask you to consider the fact, however, that writing is still fun. So now I present to you my greatest weapon; the euphemism. Im just going to give you a second there. Nothing? Oh well. Yes the cruel, annoying and at times

insufferable language I speak of is home to the greatest quantity of filth, smut and the quite frankly obscene. We need to eat grandma! becomes, well, probably extremely very wrong, with the addition of out in the right place and incorrect grammar. Thats right, I went there. Not there! You see? What started off as quite a nice, light-hearted discussion of language has surely devolved into a crude messisnt it fun?! You can do so much more too; I just gave her Tetrisif you know what I mean is surely an obvious one, right? There may be no way of restoring peace and tranquillity back to this page now. Fortunately, Im almost out of words so in a vague attempt to redeem myself, I offer you this last morsel of silliness; good use of language is knowing what grammar to use to help your point, when the thesaurus is necessary and whether or not youve got your argument across well. Great use of language is realising that Fuck you sometimes works so much better!

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Hi everyone! I hope you've stuck to your New Year's resolutions like I have! I've been looking for more motivation so I met up with last year's Xercise Factor winner Emilie Saintas. Not only did I find her an inspiration; I also learnt a lot about the benefits of healthy eating and exercise. Emilie even invited me to try out some homemade recipes with her!
In her final year studying Biology, Emilie is still just as motivated as she was during the Xercise Factor 2011 and is a frequent visitor of the gym. I met up with her at the Sports Centre to ask how the Xercise Factor changed her and whether having a gym membership is really worth the money. Why did you apply to the Xercise Factor? I applied on New Years Day after I'd had the most disgusting Christmas. I had eaten loads and I just remember thinking, Ive really got to do something; Im going to die if I dont get on a treadmill; So I applied. I had nothing to lose so I sent in a blog [part of the application process is writing up a blog entry] about how my scales were going to break and that I needed their help. What was your previous exercise history? Well I used to really like going to the gym but what I lacked was motivation. Ive been a member since 2009 when I started university and its always been the same thing; Id go, then think oh, I cant be bothered, then go and then stop again. What was it like having an actual fitness instructor which is normally very expensive to have? It was brilliant. I knew I had to go and see Nicola [Emilies mentor] and I knew I had to get up. I knew I had to be motivated. She wouldnt let me do anything half-heartedly; I had to put everything into it. I can see why fitness instructors charge what they do because of the amount of stuff she went through with me. She showed me this world of exercise that I thought would be really boring but it wasnt. Every day we were doing something different.

How many times a week did you exercise? I saw Nicola three times a week and then she gave me a plan for the other days. I did something six times a week and then Id have either a Saturday or Sunday off. But I wasnt constantly tiring myself out; if I did a massive session on a Wednesday then Id have a light resistance session on a Thursday. We built up very gradually; in my first week we went for a run through the Crab and Winkle walk. We did this every Monday and then by the end of the Xercise Factor, I found I could run for longer than when I started. You always have to start from somewhere. What were the best and worst things about the programme? Definitely the motivation aspect; the best thing was getting it and the worst was losing it. After I had done the six weeks I was on a roll. The only reason I completely slipped back was because I went home for three weeks over Easter and lost my motivation. When I came back, I had to start again from zero and work my way back up. What was it like explaining in front of a panel of judges what the Xercise Factor had done for you at the end of the six weeks and then winning? The nicest thing was that everybody had put in the same amount of effort and everyone tried really hard; it was never about winning. I presented my case with a laminated poster Nicola had made for me filled with all the different things I had done and pictures of me doing the exercises. I said how I had changed my diet to fit in with the exercise and I enjoyed finding the perfect balance. This whole process boosted my confidence and now I can just walk into a gym and I dont care about anything else. Im here to work out. You said you changed your diet, so what do you eat on a typical day? On a good day? When there arent any mini eggs? laughs I always try to have porridge in the morning because it keeps me going. I always have tea; Im obsessed with tea. I have homemade soup for lunch or I have a chicken, salad, pitta bread; something thats nice and filling but also light. Oh and fruit and yoghurt! I have a really healthy dinner that is less carbs and lots of protein and plenty of steamed veg. I usually make enough so I can freeze portions but I immediately put it into the boxes ready to go into the freezer because if its there I think, oh, Ill just have a little bit more and its a complete nightmare!

What advice would you give to this years contestants? Push yourself to the moment you feel like you want to vomit. Because the moment you feel like you cant go on is the moment you are using your full potential. When youre doing a press up and you feel like you cant do anymore, make yourself do one more! Its not easy none of it is easy and if it was, then it wouldnt be worth the challenge. Make the most of it and put your all into. And enjoy it, most importantly, enjoy it. And what about those who are thinking of joining the gym but feel like they wont get their moneys worth? Thats just another excuse not to go to the gym. You will find a thousand reasons not to go but its worth it in the end, just to feel better. Its worth it to boost your immunity levels, to boost your energy levels and to give yourself a break from studying. Its not just about trying to lose weight, its about feeling better. I used to hate the gym but now I love it. Has the Xercise Factor been truly life changing? It really has. I think it I hadnt have done it, I would still be in the rut of wanting to do something about my weight but not physically doing anything. If I hadnt broken my routine, Id probably still be exactly the same as I was a year ago. Emilie will be participating in her second triathlon this September. To find out why shes doing it and to donate towards her cause, visit www. inquirelive.co.uk where you can also read the full interview.

IQ

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iq Fashion

Will Self on Will Self

Alan Massingham

Its Tuesday the 14th of February and the Senior Common Room in Darwin College is awaiting the arrival of Will Self journalist, writer and self-described modern flaneur. When he arrives, he simply seems to ooze into the room looking beyond knackered and almost half dead. He begins by blessing us with a reading of an unpublished story called The Minor Character and whilst delivering this piece of metafiction concerning upper middle class persons drifting through life, something strange and fascinating begins to occur to the previously comatose Will Self. His storys power infests him with pure energy and his delivery becomes ever more enthusiastic and passionate as he reaches the climax. This does not go unnoticed by the audience and the following applause seems not perfunctory and polite, but an ardent and primal response to such captivating storytelling. This is the power of Will Selfs choice of words; you know exactly what he means when you are in this room with him tonight. After the applause has diminished he reads an extract from his latest

book, Walking to Hollywood, stating it is based in reality. When considering that it becomes ferociously surreal as the story progresses, combining satirical comments on CGI with the overly democratic nature of expression endemic in Hollywood you realise this says a lot about Selfs caustic views on reality and collaborative art to a room full of appreciative listeners. It is a complete Selfian moment a utilising of modern culture and its social parameters to draw attention to their constructed nature. Finally, he recounts his experiences of writing Hollywood and other anecdotes regarding the creative process brought forth by audience questions. Self defines exemplary when discussing creativity and artistry. He approaches these twin endeavours with truly progressive point of views, dovetailing acerbic social and political commentary on classic novelists such as Dickens, with a transgressive spirit indicating a desire to reflect in his writings characters in all their glorious minutiae, not as mere ciphers that command you what to think of them. Then the night ends and he sits down like nothing has happened. Will Self then exhausted, energised and effortless.

Next Issue: Fashion Week Special from London, Paris, Milan and New York. Plus scrummy recipes for you to make and bake!

Billy Connolly cant take banter?

Pamela Head Billy Connolly, famous Scottish comedian and actor, ended his standup show in Blackpool 20 minutes early after being heckled by some audience members and interrupted during one of his jokes. Ffyona McKeating, a fan that attended the show told the Blackpool Gazette: It was such an anti climax and I felt he should have been used to hecklers. This is the second time in the space of eight days that the 69-yearold performer has ended a show prematurely, after finishing early in Scarborough as a result of verbal banter from the audience. He also is said to have felt annoyance at drunken fans leaving their seats mid-way through the set to get more drinks from the bar. As a well-known comedian, regularly performing and travelling around the world, he has had a lot of experience of hecklers and is known for being able to handle them with wit and style. These walkouts have led to fans speculating whether Connolly has grown tired of performing. Mr. Paul Tye, a fan of Connollys, who attended the Scarborough show told the Scarborough Evening News: Hes an old guy, hes not young anymore. He was losing his thread as he was telling his stories and getting more and more frustrated. He didnt show his anger but you could see he was getting frustrated. Connolly himself said recently: I loathe hecklers. I havent got a good syllable to say about hecklers. When you come out of the club circuit and into the concert halls they should be gone. In this respect, his reaction can be deemed understandable, but obviously no less disappointing for the fans in Blackpool and Scarborough.

Childrens Laureate speaks out against proposed library closures

Charlotte Wright

The title of Childrens Laureate is about more than just outstanding achievement within the field of childrens literature. The appointed figure acts to lead a group of the most important writers those who will inspire future generations. With previous Laureates including War Horse author Michael Morpurgo and illustrator Quentin Blake, it is an accomplishment not to be overlooked. Present Laureate, Julia Donaldson, author of the beloved Gruffalo, carries on the trend of literary greats and is working to embody the role to the full. Donaldson has written a poem pro-

testing against the planned library closures in counties across the UK. The piece, a 22 line poem separated into rhyming couplets, holds appeal for adults and children alike. Written to mark National Library Day, it depicts Donaldsons love and support for libraries, and refers to them as places to "meet your heroes, old and new, from William the Conqueror to Winnie the Pooh". Libraries, a service being fought for by hordes of authors and celebrities alike, are under threat due to local council funding cuts. A year ago, the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Services predicted that 600 libraries could

be shut across the UK due to funding cuts. Since then there have been successes and failures, with preventions of closure in Somerset and Gloucestershire and failures, ending in a court attempt, to save six libraries in Brent. On her website, Donaldson, in summary of her plans as appointed Laureate, refers to her determination to support libraries, stating: I shall of course lend my voice to the campaign to halt the cuts and closures which as I see as so damaging to our children and their future. She further told the BBC: If we lose libraries, we would lose readers and we would become a less literate country.

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iq Fashion
Paris Fashion Week Menswear Autumn/Winter 2011-12
The trends for this coming Autumn/Winter seem to be shying away from subtlety and the understated, and encouraging the wearing of powerful and bold clothing. The clothes displayed seemed designed for the confident and commanding, with little room for timidity. Instead of submitting to hibernation, the trends from this fashion week are meant to be worn by those of us who will be thriving next winter. Capes With great power comes great responsibility, and this season it also came with a cape. Capes appeared in many of the shows as striking centre pieces. Some of the best examples (by which I mean, most wearable) were seen in Yohji Yamamotos collection. Donning one of their capes is guaranteed to gain the right kind of attention. Just dont wear it with your underwear outside of your trousers. Hybrid Coats If you dont feel up to carrying off a cape, then there were plenty of hybrid coat styles on show which will also help you make an impression. Whether its mixing materials in the same coat, or blending styles such as duffels and puffer jackets into one, these coats refused to be boring. Viktor & Rolfs mix of a doublebreasted coat and parka were one of the most noticeable of these items. Prints Prints are continuing to prove popular, becoming more detailed and eccentric than ever. Most impressive was the Dries van Noten show which not only had the models wearing items of clothing with medieval tapestries printed on, but also had painters filling in prints on the backdrop as the show was unfolding. Leather In 2000, Cody ChesnuTT released a song with the lyrics I can do anything I want/because I look good in leather. In 2012, were finally catching up with him, and it seems adopting leather into all our clothing. It made an appearance in coats, suits and even shirts this fashion week. At the head of these leather embracing shows was Yves Saint Laurent, whose leather detailing on well tailored suits and coats added an extra edge. Cover Your Neck Roll necks were dotted throughout the shows this fashion week, worn on their own or under shirts, almost like a piece of underwear. Cravats had a place on the catwalk too, most strikingly in Comme des Garons collection. Also, if youre going to be wearing scarves this upcoming autumn/winter make sure they are outsized and emphatic. Cover your neck and keep warm. Pins and Needles Decorating your outfits with pins seemed popular this fashion week. Louis Vuitton had some interesting feathered lapel pins to add flair to their suits. Rather than piercing lapels, Givenchy stuck plenty of holes in the faces of their models who strolled down the catwalk with numerous facial piercings. Whilst it certainly stood out as a look, it was hard to imagine it effectively translating to the high street. Luke Thornton

Paris Couture Spring Show

Every January, women around the world buckle their Jimmy Choos, wrap an Hermes scarf around their necks, and brave the bitter Parisian winter for one special event, the Paris Haute Couture Spring Fashion Week. Couture fashion is best described as an art form. Designers combine extravagant designs with overthe-top hair and make-up, along with accessories, to create bold and daring looks for the models who walk the runways. Each designer strives to make a statement with his or her art. The runway becomes a stage to showcase the models and keep the crowd entertained. Of course, like any art, it is notoriously expensive- 50,000 for an outfit, according to The Guardian. This year, the top fashion designers did not disappoint. After an eight year absence, Donatella Versace returned to the runway with a brand new collection. This season, the designer mixed bold and bright reds, oranges and yellows with the classic pastel greens that are common in spring collections, along with champagne and silver to balance out the colour palette. Sequins and glitter are in this spring as many of Versaces gowns were covered in them. The gowns varied in length, but all were tight and glamorous. Christian Diors main goal this year was to clean its good name. Last September, one of its head designers, John Galliano, was fined 6,000(5,200) by a Paris court for racist and anti-Semitic comments and Diors name suffered from the bad publicity. Their show was more subdued than in recent years, and the collection reflected styles of the 1950s. The skirts came just above the knees with basic yet sophisticated prints. Many of the dresses had high scoop-neck tops with tight waists that billowed out and flowed down to the floor. Black, white, and grey dominated the colour palette with plum and bright red pieces to accent. The collection, though stylish and fashionable as ever, was safe, not nearly as exciting as many of the other shows of Fashion Week. Perhaps one of the most interesting events of Paris Fashion Week was Jean-Paul Gaultiers show on the Thursday. Gaultier decided to channel another diva, the late Amy Winehouse. All of the models had beehive styled hair similar to Winehouses and wore fake birth marks on their faces while some even walked with cigarettes. As the singers music played, the models showed off Gaultiers 1950s and Winehouse inspired collection, and unlike Diors, it was anything but safe. All of the colours were bright on this runway, even the whites and creams gave off a fluorescent-like glow. Whether Winehouse would have approved is debatable. One particular romper looked more like something worn in the Playboy Club than by Winehouse.

Versace Couture Collection

Yves Saint Laurent Menswear

Paris... Jadore - Paris Fashion Highlights

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Jean-Paul Gautier Couture

Ali Martin

iq Features

R.I.P WHITNEY HOUSTON

Gina Anderson Dominating news headlines over the past week has been the unexpected death of US singer, actress and all-round superstar Whitney Houston. Houston was declared deceased at approximately 3.55pm on Saturday 11th February. According to police statements, the body was found unconscious and underwater in the bath tub of her Los Angeles hotel room where it is believed she was residing in light of the Grammy awards ceremony that was to begin later that evening. As no definite cause of death has been provided yet, speculation surrounding the musical legends death grows. TV hostess and legal commentator Nancy Grace in particular appeared on CNN just three days after the death was publicised announcing that someone may have pushed and held Houston under the water, suggesting that the singers death was a violent act of murder. Following unflattering photographs of a drunk Houston leaving a nightclub just two days before her death, and reports that Houstons body was found surrounded by various bottles of prescription drugs including painkillers, antianxiety drugs, and drugs for bacterial infection, has resulted in newspapers also sharing in the speculation of intentional death, in this instance inferring suicide. Los Angeles assistant chief coroner Ed Winter who is overseeing the investigation has offered no support to any of these claims and has stated that until a toxicology report becomes available in the next few weeks, it is impossible to determine the exact cause of death. At first it was thought that singer and reality TV star Ray-J, who dated Houston between 2007 and 2009, found the star in her hotel room. But the famous brother of singer and actress Brandy, later released a statement explaining he was nowhere near the scene but no less distraught. Photographs have been publicised online of Ray-J leaving the Beverly Hilton Hotel with his face buried in his hands after visiting the deceased body of his ex-lover. Since the outbreak of the story, fears have grown concerning the mental state of Houstons 18 year-old daughter, Bobbi Kristina. Authorities have communicated that the teenager was rushed to hospital twice in the 24 hours following the discovery of her mothers body where she was treated for extreme anxiety. In addition, headlines have circulated proposing that the 18 year-old is suffering from substance abuse. However, the daughter of the star took to twitter earlier this week to deny any such claims. Bobby Brown, Houstons ex-husband is also believed to be struggling with the devastating news as he is said to be in and out of crying fits. Furthermore, Brown was witnessed frustrated and storming out of the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, New Jersey, on the day of Houstons funeral, Saturday 18th February, after being told he was not allowed to be seated in the first row near his daughter, Bobbi Kristina. Apart from this seating dispute, the funeral of Houston was an event graced by a galaxy of the singers family, friends, and mourning fans. Tribute performances were sung in the church where Houston was raised by acts such as gospel singer Dionne McClurken, Bebe Winans, Stevie Wonder, and Alicia Keys. Heartfelt expressions were made by costar of the hit movie The Bodyguard Kevin Costner, Houstons cousin and pop diva Dionne Warwick, and Houstons mentor and CEO of Sony, Clive Davis , to name a few. As my own tribute to the singer, and for those readers who are unaware of the legend that was Whitney Houston, heres an outline of her long and successful 30 year career within the music and film industry. Houston was born on August 9th, 1963, with an unusual supply of musical genes; she was the daughter of gospel singer Cissy Houston, cousin of 1960s pop star Dionne Warwick, and the goddaughter of the legendary Aretha Franklin. Houston began singing gospel songs at the age of five at her local church in New Jersey, where her funeral recently took place. Spotted in a Manhattan nightclub by Clive Davis at the age of 19, Houston was signed instantly. Her debut album was released in 1985, entitled Whitney Houston and became the best-selling debut album by any female act at the time. Following this, her second album in 1987 became the first album by any female artist to debut at number one on the Billboard 200 albums chart, which

Events on Campus Gulbenkian Film: Shame Sherlock Holmes: Game of Shadows The Artist Gulbenkian Theatre: Theatre Action Present Phoenix Rising : D. H. Lawrence - Sons & Lovers 24 February University Chamber Choir Concert From morn to midnight 29 February Open Lecture - Prof Carl Lygo The changing view of Higher Education in the UK The Rt Hon Lord Justice Etherton Lecture Kent Law School Lecture Series The troublesome problem of the meaning of words March 7 The Criminal Justice System in 2012: Is it fit for purpose? Speaker: His Honour Judge Jeremy Gold QC
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spawned numerous Grammy award winning hits including Saving All My Love For You, How Will I Know, and The Greatest Love Of All. In addition to this already inspiring success, Houston starred in The Bodyguard in 1992, which made her name in the world of film alongside her music career. Unfortunately, Houstons love life did not project the image of success her professional career did. In 1992, Houston married hip-hop singer Bobby Brown, a marriage that lasted 14 years before an acrimonious split in April 2007. During this period, Houston admitted to falling victim to substance abuse, using cocaine and marijuana and other pills. Houston was declared clean of her addiction in 2010, however her once strong and flawless voice had now become hoarse and fans were disappointed as concert dates had been missed. Despite this tragic fall, Houston was a talent like no other, and as expressed by Costner at the funeral we should refrain from the negativity that became her downfall, and remember the sweet miracle of Whitney.

The Xercise Blog

Jayna Rana
Its been a month since I found out I was one of the final five for the Xercise Factor and I cant believe how much I am enjoying myself. Im now able to do Level 3 moves in Yoga and I can run for longer on the treadmill without absolutely gasping for breath. I have even upgraded my off-peak membership to peak as I know I will make the most of it for the rest of this academic year. I dont know if its because theyve seen me come home sweating or because they know that Im on this program, but my housemates and friends are starting to see changes in my appearance and weight. I havent person-

ally seen them where Id like to (my Buddha belly!) but Ive noticed my arms and legs are looking stronger and my complexion is clearer. I have this ideal image in my head of what I want to look like by the end of June which is making me more motivated. By the time this goes to print I will have had my Badminton session with Jeni, but as Im writing now, it will be in five hours. Im really excited as I used to love playing Badminton as a child. Im not really that good; I just like to see how many times I can actually hit the shuttlecock in a row. As for Jeni; she says it will be her first time playing which promises for some laughs later. To see how it went, check out my blog at www.kent. ac.uk/sports.

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what is love, anyway?

Peter Adkin whole love deal. Its a Tuesday evening at the Gulbenkian theatre, and its not just any Tuesday evening, its Valentines Day. Or as, Herring reminds us in the first five minutes of the show, the day before St. Skeletor Day (the date on which you are allowed to push loved-up couples into puddle, he gloatingly explains, singling out a pair in the front row who deserve such treatment). Yes, as anyone who knows Herring could have expected, tonights performance isnt a gushing soliloquy on the virtues of relationships but two hours of deconstructing the concept of love and all its multi-faceted, vomit-inducing aspects. The fact that today is the celebration of the patron saint of mushiness is not only apt coincidence but, as the show progresses, fuel for Herrings hilariously cynical take on the Plenty of people smirk at the idea of God, explains Herring early on, but readily believe in a magical idea of love and soul mates. This show clearly looks to redress that imbalance somewhat, via Herrings gut-thundering hilarious trademark mixture of astute, on the knuckle satire and toilet jokes. That hes been writing and touring the show since last summer (it debuted at the Edinburgh Fringe, where he annually performs a new act each year) is a testament to both Herring and his well-thought approach to his subject matter. Despite having lived and breathed the show for the last six months, theres no sense of fatigue in tonights performance. In fact this evenings proceedings are, if anything, invigorated with a lively, fresh-faced playfulness, with the comedian quipping and ad-libbing as befits tonights responsive and vocal audience. Whether reading aloud poetry he wrote as an eighteen year-old virgin or presenting a blownup version of the Valentines card which sparked his parents fifty-year relationship (with the unforgettable greeting Come on over, do your stuff, I likes guys what treat me rough), Herrings performance overflows with a creativity and core of intellect that many stand-ups lack. Long thought-out ideas and research have gone into tonights show; not just the penning of jokes, but a framework of intellectual sentiments and cohesive ideas giving the show (and the jokes) a solid structure. All the work and thought gone into the show has paid off, as comic reassessment of the quixotic elements of romance prove the perfect antithesis to the cupid-shooting madness elsewhere.

Nathan Lucking

band quest for new talent showcase for charity

to win prizes on the night, from CD to festival tickets, just for going a long and voting for their favourite act of the night. Better still, the hosting venues get a greater than normal level of punters, helping them through these widely documented hard times for small music venues and pubs. On top of all this, they also raise considerable amounts of money given to a number of charities, including Teenage Cancer Trust, with this years goal set at 2000. Its an even better reason to go out and support local bands when they are in town. Mike Hunt In tribute to Dave Lee, the actor and comedian, 64, who died in The next Band Quest will take January of pancreatic cancer, place on 23rd February at the The Marlowe Theatre will be Beer Cart Arms in Beer Cart holding an all- star show to Lane. Although its too late for commemorate his life and raise any bands to sign up for this money for his charity. year, its worth checking it out if you would like to sign up for Lee was the patron of Dave Lees Happy Holidays, a charnext year. Check out the webity that worked to raise money site (www.bandquestuk.com) or search Unified Music Group to send terminally ill, underon Facebook to see updates and privileged or disabled children other gigs you can get involved on holiday, trips of a lifetime and trips to watch the pantowith. mimes that he stared in. Marlowe pantomime director and producer, Paul Hendy and is now planning a show, Dave Lee: A Celebration. The show will be a fitting tribute to Daves wonderful career, reflecting the many different aspects of it - including music, stand-up comedy and, of course, pantomime Lots of his pals have said theyd love to take part. Its going to be a great evening and one that Dave would have been proud of. Although no performers have yet been confirmed as taking part, many of the celebrities who attended

Band Quest has been going for the last five years, all around the south east of England promoting the rock and metal scene and making it more accessible to fans and bands through its yearly series of gigs. Band Quest allows bands from all over the South East to enter at no fee, with the chance of winning some serious prizes, including a slot at a music festival. As well as this, it is a great platform from which new and unsigned bands gain valuable experience and increase their following just by doing what they love. Band Quest differs from most battle of the bands competitions in many ways. It costs nothing to enter and offers those partaking free advice from industry members, amongst a heap of other benefits that, if youre a small band, may prove priceless. It doesnt stop there. Whenever Band Quest rolls into town, its not just the bands that benefit. The fans get a chance

the funeral in the Cathedral- including Jim Davidson, Bobby Davro and Joe Pasquale- are thought to be interested. Dave Lee: A Celebration will be on at The Marlowe Theatre on Sunday 6th May. Tickets will go on sale on Friday 24th February and will cost 35, with 100% of the proceeds going to the charity.

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spotlight on speech debelle

Harriet Cash A hot act in 2009, when her debut Speech Therapy won the Mercury Prize, it subsequently achieved the dubious accolade of worst-performing Mercury winner ever. Having scratched the original plan for her second album, the London rappers back with Freedom of Speech, which directs the power of her words outwards at more political issues. Her choice of title isnt random; honesty and speaking out form a thread through the record, themes which rap always lends itself well to. Subtle instrumentation and simple melodies let her words speak for themselves, notably on Blaze Up A Fire. The collaboration with Roots Manuva was written before the riots last year but deals with the problems inequality and political dishonesty - that led to the violence. Political questioning continues on Collapse, a stand-out which rages at the state of the world, while still acknowledging personal responsibility (my carbon footprint is bigger than my shoes is). Shes not messing around, everybodys fair game as a target for her rhymes.

having almost disappeared after her mercury-winning debut, speech therapy in 2009, speech debelle returns with freedom of speech.
realise how closely connected they actually are. Whether shes looking out or inwards, theres a desire for truth which is pretty irresistible. Rap can be about the material things in life, but it can also be about a scream to be heard, a blast of reality. Freedom of Speech nails a lot of the problems we have in the 21st century and tries to weave a way out of them. Maybe shes not a popstar, but shes a poet for sure, and a serious inventive voice in music rap, pop or otherwise. Im consciously trying to avoid comparisons with current artists like Nicki Minaj or Kanye West, because theyre pretty obvious and dont actually say very much. But maybe shes a hip hop Frank Turner. This record definitely owes more to the old school spirit of Public Enemy and the like than it does to the current mainstream, but there are also shades of funk, soul, and some almost rock synths and strings. Elements of each track are a little bit unexpected, and carry the force of her messages forward. If this is the record to launch Speech Debelle into the spotlight proper, then you better believe the hype.

Give it up, Geldof Peter Adkins

Not to say that this is a bleak record theres anger and frustration for sure, but also a search for understanding and a dissection of issues around her. The Problem pulses with energy as she works out whats going wrong with the world. Its not all purely political either; songs like X Marks the Spot and the brilliantly titled Elephant in the Living Room deal with relationship breakdowns and the emotional wrangling that goes with.

The highlight has to be the joyous funk soul of Im With It, with its gorgeously retro chorus and almost disco beat, on top of which Speech Debelle layers her ode to falling uncontrollably for someone. This track is the most quote-unquote pop of the album, but not the worse for it, and showcases her inventiveness with rap as a style. Throughout the record, personal and political questions merge and interact until you

Juice wednesdays at club chemistry

Laurie MacDonald Mondays Pop ya Cherry may be the traditional night for UKC students at Club Chemistry, but recently Kent students are venturing to Student Republics Juice on Wednesday nights. Juice has always been seen as Christchurchs night, but this year it seems PYC is declining in popularity, and Kent students are willing to rub shoulders with our compatriots from CCCU for a much better night out. The Student Republic DJs mix a good set, music varying over three floors. With the bottom floor playing a mix of Indie and electro/dubstep, middle has Rnb and Hip Hop and top floor banging out the cheese, theres a little something for everyone if youre willing to look. Prices are similar to Mondays with entry at 5 and drinks from 1.20 before 11pm and 1.70 after. Themes range from Americana, beer pong and stars and stripes included, to a Speed Dating night for Valentines which may even have sparked a few romances. Student Republics photographers catch the night on film, so at least in the morning if you forget what you did, you can always check and see if its all over Facebook. The crowd is always good natured and up for a good time, living up to the Chemistry motto of no attitude clubbing. Security is tight as always at Chemistry, so theres no worries about a fight getting out of control, or any Varsity banter going a bit too far. In my opinion Juice is the best night at Chemistry, and believe me I know what Im talking about; I work there after all. Drop by some time, if you fancy something a bit different from the Venue on a Wednesday. Just avoid mentioning how badly theyll lose at Varsity. Find Student Republic on Facebook for a list of Juice themes and the chance of free entry at; www.facebook.com/StudRep

By the time that you will read this, a partial Blur reunion will have taken place. Damon Albarn and Graham Coxon of the semi-active outfit will be performing together for the first time since 2009s reunion gigs; all in the name of charity (specifically War Child). Now call me cynical, but Im instantly suspicious of any big name artist doing anything in which theyre purporting to be performing for the benefit of anyone but themselves and their bank managers. Perhaps Im unduly jaded. Perhaps its from having watched too many bands endlessly gurn their way through Children In Need, Comic Relief, Sport Relief and Celebrity special editions of other dishwater programmes. Im not even in the camp of detractors who think they do it for the exposure. No, I think theyre doing it from an overblown sense of importance and influence. Even at Live8, as I stood in Hyde Park watching Pink Floyd jam together for the first time in decades, I wondered- why. Where is the correlation between debt-ridden African republics and four aging prog rockers feeling a sense of importune? When they were putting on the guitar straps and getting ready to perform, did they get a sense that they were doing something proactively useful? Raising awareness doesnt count were all as aware (or unaware) as we choose to be. Now this isnt me taking a moral high-ground here, Im just being brutally honest: any good that comes from charity gigs is generally a left-over energy leaking from the still buzzing amps.

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Stalins Favourite at the gulb

Chad Greggor

Stalins Favourite, a play

adapted from the true-story of Konstantin Simonov in Orlando Figes novel The Whisperers, is an enthralling and informative glance into the Stalin regime and its effects on the Russian people. Konstantin Simonov was a Russian poet who, due to his patriotic poems and strong allegiance to the Bolshevik government, eventually became Stalins favourite poet. Played by Rupert Wickham (who also adapted the novel for the stage), Simonov shuffles about leaning heavily on a cane, seeming unhealthy, and is suspect to sporadic outbursts of anger. He delivers his story in a retrospective view from the year of his death in 1979, chronicling his stellar achieve-

ments during the Stalin regime with humble amazement and poignant shame. The intimate one-man show provides the ideal platform for his confessional tone. He attempts to explain how he was taken in by the inhuman power of the lie, at points arguing with himself and angrily

protesting his own attempt at justification. What we see is a man in turmoil, plagued by his feelings of guilt and shame, and excellently portrayed by Wickham. The set is a grand looking apartment half way through the stages of being packed up, which Simonov explains is his

attempt to pack up the past. There is also a dominating stone image of Stalin lording over the scene. The lighting is used ingenuously to bring this image to life, challenging the format of the one-man play: when the set goes dark, and there is a spotlight individually focused on Simonov and the image of Stalin, we realize that there is not just one character in the scene. At times the language it loses some of its emotional gravity as it seems synthetic, being full of dates and quotations that are necessary to the historical background. But this fault is easily overlooked and, for a play that is predominantly about history, it is gripping in a way that recalls The Investigation by Peter Weiss, a stripped-down play that lets the truth speak for itself.

H i d d e n gems
foxfire (1996)
anusha tabari
Most of you have probably never heard of Foxfire. Even now its hard to track down a copy of the movie in the UK. Its a hidden gem starring one of the most famous women of our time, Angelina Jolie, back when she was paying her dues as a B-list actress with those bee-stung lips. Foxfire, adapted from the Joyce Carol Oates novel of the same name, is a 1996 film about a group of female high school students who form an unlikely bond after an enigmatic stranger encourages them to stand up to the teacher that was sexually harassing the. I first watched this movie by accident when I was about 10 years old. I always vaguely remembered it. I watched it again for the first time in years last weekend and the effect it had on me was even stronger. The effect was the same one I had when I watched Thirteen. Sometimes its hard to watch because at certain points it hits home. It sucker-punches you in the face but you cant look away. Foxfire follows in that vessel of late 90s indie films with the young actresses of the time who I worshipped Kirsten Dunst, Winona Ryder, Christina Ricci and of course the incomparable tour-de-force of an untainted, raw Ms Jolie. Its unashamedly female liberation at its fiercest but without the cringe of GIRL POWER and the equally sexist stereotypes and generalizations of men. Its more about friendship at its most naked, exposed state. Its a group of teenage girls who have each others backs so much to the extent that they commit acts so out-of-character because their bond is so strong. It may not be epic and may be lost in the barrel of disposable b-list movies but I think thats a shame. As Chris Rock says, women would run the world if we didnt all hate each other.

dickens brought to life by callow

Olivia Marsh Simon Callow, CBE, is really quite a remarkable man. Most famous for his acting roles in films such as Four Weddings and a Funeral and Shakespeare in Love, as well as his theatrical performances, and most recently, in a one man play based upon the life of Shakespeare in 2011. Besides his acting and directorial achievements, Simon Callow is a prolific writer, delving into the lives of some of the most treasured literary authors such as Orson Welles and Oscar Wilde. This month marks the bicentenary of Charles Dickens birth and to celebrate, Simon Callows has produced a biographical account of the extraordinary life of Charles Dickens in his book Charles Dickens and the Great Theatre of the World. On Sunday 5th February, Callow came to the Gulbenkian theatre to present his own involvement in the works of Dickens throughout his acting career and to give a biographical overview of the life of Dickens. Simon Callow charm and charisma he led the audience through Dickens life and works, which included extraordinary detail and anecdotes of the great mans career, relationship with parliament and Queen Victoria. Speaking from memory and at times reading extracts from his book, Callow combines his acting talents with his scholarly passions to create the three dimensional character of Dickens. The talk included Callow performing extracts from Dickens works such as The Pickwick Papers, which made the works come alive. A performance which was at times humorous and at times melancholy, the audience experienced an emotional journey following the rise and decline of Dickens health and marriage, as Callow observed When genius behaves badly, it behaves very badly indeed. Dickens really was an extraordinary character, a man who loved acting, performing, directing and who wrote novels of the real world of the Victorian era and to this day is the novelist which we associate most closely with the Victorian period. His passion to help those who were disadvantaged in society saw him act as a proponent for the causes of the poor in his writings, and Simon Callow as an actor, director, and writer was able to give voice and life back to a very great man who was born over 200 years ago.

Watch out for the next issue of inQuire which will feature an interview with comedian Chris Adddison!

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Review: The Game by Neil Strauss

Martin Porritt

The Game, by Neil Strauss, is initially

a journalistic account of the authors investigation into the underground world of pick-up artists. Strauss discovers that he, himself is a competent pick-up artist and becomes infatuated with a brave new world of chick-cracks, cock-blocks and shit tests. (We are introduced to an entirely new discourse: the peacock, for example, is the excessively flamboyant adornment you must wear in order to command the attention of your target.) The narrative, rather cinematic in style, describes Strausss own induction into the secret circle, which is headed by the codenamed Mystery. We see, from Strausss talented-outsider perspective, the rise and fall of Mystery, who along with Strauss becomes disillusioned with their endeavours to sleep with hundreds and hundreds of women (I feel shit empty).

Strauss swiftly reassures us in an opening chapter that he is, in fact, a deep man: I reread James Joyces Ulysses every three years for fun. Feeling much safer (although perhaps wondering what else he does during the three year interval), we are led not only into the narrative, but also a kind of how-to manual for the uninitiated reader. The book contains glossaries, blog reports, diagrams and prop-lists. Do not forget your set of wooden runes in cloth bag. One particular diagram, a stick drawing of a girl called The Mystery Method course handout, is labelled with oneliners appropriate to each body part, which the pick-up artist may wish to recite in conversation with the desired girl. These one-liners are no ordinary, oldfashioned compliments, however. They are Sniper Negs, thwarted compliments that at once flatter and embarrass, boost her self-esteem and damage it at the same time. Some are intended humorously: You have beautiful eyes,

can I touch them? Others are supposedly examples that pick-up artists have actually used: Those shoes look really comfortable. It is at this point that an English reader may realise that this was written for an American audience. The how-to book is, after all, more naturally an American product. In one sense it is a compliment to women that they appear so intimidating, so perplexing and mysterious, as to inspire these men in their pseudo-scientific pursuit of understanding them. But it is also a creepy form of manipulation. It is unfair to the opposite sex; feels as if the natural order of things is being tampered with. Neil Strausss book is well written and often hilarious though not always on purpose. Still, most of us (men and women) are aware, however vaguely, of the pick-up techniques displayed in the book. This comes from natural experience trying and failing, and trying again. There is something pathetic about writing it all up into a system. The next author who

takes on this subject should urge readers not to be afraid of going alone.

Five Ways to Combat Insomnia

Alice Bryant

At university it can be difficult to

establish a regular sleeping pattern or routine; the student lifestyle just isnt conducive to getting 8 hours sleep every day and finding yourself ready and raring to go the next morning. Generally the reality is that you were up until 4am and now youre faced with the grim prospect of waking up (or not) for your 9am lecture. Although more and more people are being prescribed sleeping tablets by doctors, this doesnt tackle the root of the problem and can often lead to drug dependency. So here are some tried and tested tips to help you get some sleep at night: 1. Wake up early The key to tackling insomnia is breaking the cycle. If you got to sleep at around 5am, make sure that you wake up at a reasonable time. Dont sleep on until 3 oclock in the afternoon or the cycle will inevitably repeat itself; set 4 or 5 alarms, put one of them at the other end of your bedroom, and choose a really jaunty, fast-paced song thatll make you so incensed with anger that youll be forced to get up to turn the bloody thing off (I personally recommend The Logical Song by Scooter). Do not nap during the day. Keep your-

self busy. Appoint an good-natured friend to keep you company all day, or force yourself to remain in the library (but dont stray into the dangerous territory of the silent zone). Hopefully youll be so tired the next evening that youll fall to sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. 2. Tackling anxiety If waking up early didnt work, you have to start questioning whether or not the root of your problem stems from a psychological basis. Are you lying in your bed every night anxiously worrying about work, relationships, or anything else? If you are, I suggest that instead of letting these anxieties drive you insane, you write them down in some sort of notebook. Literally just empty all of your thoughts onto it and then put it under your bed. Sometimes I havent felt like writing so Ive just scribbled a drawing down on a bit of paper. It sounds stupid, but it helps -

youre organising your thoughts and anxieties into a physical, visual form, which in turn separates the problem from yourself. 3. Creating a suitable sleeping environment Sometimes your room will be a mess. There are several mouldy mugs on your bedside table (that are starting to smell putrid), your sheets havent been changed in weeks, and your floor is a swamp of clothes, shoes, and miscellaneous empty food wrappers. Get organised. Change your sheets, tidy up, and make it a calm, relaxed space that you can feel comfortable in. If you want to go the extra mile, light some candles, burn some incense, buy some flowers. Make it so that being in your bed, in your room, feels like a luxurious and decadent experience. 4. Things that you probably shouldnt do (essentially any-

thing fun) If you want to sleep there are some obvious rules that you have to comply with. No late-night caffeine or sugar binges. Try to avoid fatty foods as they rest heavily on your stomach and can make it difficult and uncomfortable to sleep. Dont exercise before going to bed as itll raise your heart-rate and keep you alert. So will smoking, so if you do smoke, try and reduce it in the evening. Studies have also shown that lightexposure emitted from screens reduces the bodys natural levels of Melatonin which helps to regulate our body-clock and therefore our sleep. So try and leave the laptop on your desk; only use your bed for sleep and sex. This helps us to associate the bed with rest and relaxation rather than late-night assignments and BBC iPlayer. 5. Never be afraid to seek help Insomnia can persist for weeks, months, or even years, especially if its anxiety-related. It can lead to stress, depression, and a feeling of overwhelming helplessness. So make sure that you get it sorted - visit your local doctor and explain the problem. Seek a local counsellor (the university provides a free counselling service for students) if you feel that there are recurring problems that you need to address that are preventing you from getting a good nights sleep.

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A Profile of a Rising Star in Filmmaking: Steve McQueen

Lisa-Marie Janes

Steve McQueen is currently one

of the most unique film directors emerging in Hollywood, following the success of Shame and Hunger. Although he shares a name with the late Hollywood icon, Mcqueen is actually an ordinary Brit who chose his projects wisely and captured the attention of audiences and film critics alike. McQueen was a fan of the arts, choosing to briefly attend New York Universitys Tisch School of Arts before deciding that filmmaking was his career path. Known for his unusual work, McQueen released a short black-and-white film, Bear in 1993 where a man and McQueen have an ambiguous encounter,

naked. McQueen produced another short black-and-white film Deadpan in 1997, re-enacting Buster Keatons famous house collapse stunt. Drumroll was released in 1998, where he attached cameras to a side of a drum and then rolled it through New York. Appearing in galleries, McQueens work gained critical acclaim leading to the recognition of his work in 1991 when the London Tate awarded him the Turner Prize for best visual artist under 50. In 2000, he co-wrote and directed Hunger, based around IRA hunger striker, Bobby Sands (played by Michael Fassbender) which gained rave reviews within the festival circuit but, was rarely released elsewhere. Following Hunger, Mc-

Queen took three years to decide on his next project: sex addiction. Shame centres around Brandon Sullivan (played by Fassbender), a secret sex addict who is forced to confront his addiction when his emotionally unstable sister, Sissy (Carey Mulligan) comes to stay. McQueen chose to focus on sex addiction, risking an NC-17 certificate which would restrict his audience. He claimed: it could be drugs, drink, but I chose sex because people dont talk about it. Sex has a stigma that drugs or alcohol no longer have Twelve Years a Slave is McQueens next project, based around slavery in the mid 1800s, starring Fassbender and Brad Pitt, guaranteed a hit following McQueens past accomplishments.

How To... Have Self Discipline

The Student "How To" Manual

Ros Martin

I can see it now, that person youre attracted

to, that expensive item youll never need, that overly chocolatey biscuit. You want it, you have to have it, it will make you feel incredible, youll be dead inside without it. But you mustnt, you and I both know that, itll make you hate yourself tomorrow, itll bankrupt you, itll make you fat. If youre extremely efficient, itll do all of the above. So stop looking, lusting, yearning; tear your eyes away from the alluring deliciousness, that promise of endless satisfaction. You need to find something else to do, something to distract yourself with when you feel tempted. Whenever you feel the overwhelming urge to give in, do anything else; have a stick of gum, punch a small child in the face. Self discipline is all about denial; telling yourself that you dont want whatever it is you really want, denying that its bad for you and definitely denying that you gave in to it. A strong will, that of unyielding iron is what you need. Of course, if you dont have one and are therefore weak willed, what you can do is enlist a friend to help you. They will enjoy the power they now have over you and your habits but however by the end of the process you may no longer want to be friends with them. Of course, when youve realised youve managed it, youve actually managed to resist, you simply have to have some kind of a reward. What better way of congratulating yourself on not caving in and having that chocolate biscuit than with a massive cake?

McQueen directs Michael Fassbender in Hunger

Fassbender and Mulligan star in Shame

Billy Crystal to host oscars

Anusha Tabari

Billy Crystal, star of When Harry

Met Sally, has recently been announced the host of the 84th Academy Awards that will take place at Hollywoods Kodak Theatre on Sunday 26th February. This will not be Crystals first time hosting. In 1992 he opened the show in a muzzle dressed as Hannibal Lector,

wheeled out by two men in doctors coats. The Hollywood Foreign Press, the stars nominated and the viewing public will be waiting to see how he makes his return to hosting the Oscars. If you have the stamina to brave the time difference and stay up to watch the full ceremony from 1 am (EST) you can expect a bevy of comedy from presenters such as

Tina Fey, Ben Stiller, Chris Rock and the cast of Bridesmaids as well as Hollywood favourites such as Angelina Jolie, Penelope Cruz, Tom Hanks and Halle Berry. If the Golden Globes and BAFTAs are any indication of how the Academy awards will play out then The Artist is set to be a big winner with 10 nominations under its beltincluding the big ones: Best Actor for Jean Dujardin, Best Actress for Brnice Bejo and Best Film. The Brits are also never forgotten at the Oscars with nods for Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, My Week with Marilyn and The Iron Lady. So predictions will be made, Billy Crystal will take to the stage with no doubt a comedy routine in mind and it will inevitably be glamour and gowns galore to wrap up the awards season and celebrate another stellar year of cinema.

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An Anthropological Study in the Opposite Sex. Well, Kind Of...

Elspeth Hagen on a Guys Night Out
Swagger guys

Inquires Newspapers Sports Editor, Jack Bishop and Comment Editor Elspeth Hagen explore their take on a girls/guys night out. Whilst Jack takes us through his view on a standard female student night out, Elspeth explores the typical types of the male species that youre bound to spot on a night out in The Venue. Disclaimer: Please take this article with a pinch of salt...a wedge of lemon and a shot of tequila. Jack Bishop on a Girls Night Out

The Ten Commandments of Facebook Stalking

Technology Round-Up with Ali Martin

conscious and will probably ask you to feel their abs/ arms as a way of chatting you up. They will have been to the gym to boost their ego for this night out and believe they look like Tom Hardy with the ability of pulling Pixie Lott. At worst theyll wear I am just kidding, but seria typical Jack Wills top thats ously, how do guys see a purposely a size too small to girls night out? I will try accentuate the guns. to fathom out the intricacies of a girls night out from Rugby guys a guys perspective. This is all in jest I must hasten to add, so dont get too mad girls, I am just joking! Identifiable by their striped ties or outlandish fancy dress (orange/gimp etc.) or the fact that theyre stood Ahh predrinksif youre a man this involves endless outside the ladies toilet clapping at anyone who comes amounts of beer pong, card games, and quite a few through the door, these are the guys who think theyre lagers, vodkas, whiskies or any other drink. However, the LADs of The Venue. After pre-drinking copious what happens at a girls predrinks? Obviously girls amounts of alcohol at a campus bar they will arrive at have less time at a predrinks because they spend SO The Venue chanting outrageous songs. Dont be fooled long getting ready. Half an hour in the shower, an by this front though, many of them are just big softies hour doing make up, moisturising and all that jazz that and actually quite a laugh to be around. guys simply dont do. And dont even get me started Outrageous dancer guy on the hair?! Should it be back-combed? Should I have a fringe? Also, there has to be fake tan, girls all doing This is the guy who is throwing some serious shapes on their fake tans together, because you just cant wear the dance floor. Dont let the distance between him and that little black dress with pasty legs! everyone else fool you into thinking hes got no friends,

Swagger guys are very body

It always starts with a

bottle of wine, girls nights out all start with a bottle of wine. Or two... two bottles of wine turn into many many Vodka and Cokes, Apple Sourz (because she is such a girl!) and that turns into a night you cannot remember!

No one wants to admit it, but we all do it.

It starts out innocent enough. Your best friend posts a picture of her and her best friend from primary school. Hes pretty cute. You click on your friends other pictures, but that was the only one she has of him. So you click on his name. He clearly doesnt know how to set his pictures as private, and you scroll through all of them. By the end, you feel like you were at his bar mitzvah seven years ago. Dont be ashamed; weve all Facebook stalked. Some people just do it better than others. Here are the ten commandments of Facebook stalking: 1. I am Facebook, thine social networking site. Thou shall not friend those thou stalks unless thou has spoken to them in person. 2.Thou shall not take a failed relationship in vain and stalk the ex. Thou shall regret it. 3. Keep relationships sacred and do not stalk the exs new boy or girlfriend either. 4. Honor thy friends and friends of friends, and dont stalk any further than two degrees of separation(cousins friend or mums coworker). Anything farther is just weird. 5. Thou shall not speak of events pictured to the stalkee for fear of creeping them out. 6. Thou shall not stalk before a date. Allow space for mystery. 7. Thou may stalk a friends date, but thou must shut thine mouth until after the date. 8. Thou shall not type the stalkees name into the status box instead of the search box and accidentally make his or her name thines status. Rookie mistake. 9. Thou shall not send Farmville or Words with Friends requests to the stalkee unless a genuine friendship has been established. 10. If thou really wants to be a Facebook Stalking Master, then thou shall erase thine history after stalking, especially if thines housemates are as nosey in real life as thou is online.

this is the space required to deliver such moves. Hes probably a laugh to be around if you can avoid accidently Once girls actually get to the predrinks, after a good couple of hours (or maybe thats just my female housebeing hit in the face. mates) the girls are ready to get to drinking. Obviously Sleaze guy they dont drink anything as strong as a man would so Sleaze guy will probably give you his sex eyes and smile wine is always a good bet! Although my three female housemates have started getting into Peach Schnapps, look which actually resembles more of a creepy guy in an alley, until he will approach you with a line such as I possibly one of the most disgusting drinks I have ever couldnt take my eyes off you, youre stunning. Dont be tried in my entire life, much to the bemusement of myself and my male housemates. All this drink is in prepafooled by this line, it will have been used on many girls ration for heading to Venners, the Big V, or Venue as it before you. His deluded belief that you are interested is most commonly known. will lead to him constantly trying to grind on you until you leave the dance floor. Always smashed guy You will probably find this guy surrounded by a bunch of guys who are laughing at them or just evidently embarrassed to be around them this is of course unless they have wandered off by themselves. Avoid these guys at all costs unless you want to be a babysitter for the night and risk being thrown up on. To be honest the only time youd ever get with one of these guys is if youre just as smashed which, lets face it, can never end well. The doesnt want to be here guy Probably dragged out by his friends, this guy will make one drink last the entire time hes there and will spend the night on his phone with a miserable face until he leaves at about half 11 due to work commitments/ doesnt feel well/ is going to meet his girlfriend. What are the rules for girls getting with guys? I am led to believe that accepting a drink from a guy is tantamount to accepting a dance/grind/kiss/cheeky fumble on the floor. So girls, if you have accepted a drink from some ugly guy, then think again, because to him, this is agreeing for something more to happen. Also what of the dance moves? Too slutty and you are asking for a guy to try it on and too reserved and he may move onto another, more friendly girl. And a guy can tell a lot from a girl by a dress. A little black dress is always a winner, but what length? Too long and that girl is not looking for anything tonight, and too short and shes saying Come get it big boy! The end of the night is always fun. Obviously it finishes with a pillow fight in their underwear, but every guy knows that, right?

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Sport

Kent Football Reach Quarter Finals of BUCS Cup

Danny Smith 1st Team Captain
Kent continued their impressive run of form by securing a quarter final spot in the BUCS Conference Cup after a comfortable 3-1 home win against Brighton 4ths. The result sees Kent face Kingston 1sts in the next round (also to be played at home on 22nd February) and a potential local derby against Christchurch in the semi-final. The game began in frenetic fashion with Kent asserting their dominance from the outset, perhaps due to the generous donation of Red Bull from Kent university student and Red Bull associate Lorcan O Duffy. Tommy Parkinson and Stefan Wolf anchored Kents midfield admirably, allowing Brighton very little time on the ball and breaking up play swiftly and effectively. The ball rarely left the Brighton half as Kent launched attack after attack, with both wide players Alex Nelson and Elliot OReilly providing a useful outlet for the home side. Kent almost broke the deadlock from numerous set pieces, as the aerial presence of Nick White, James Robins and Tommy Parkinson saw Kent go close on numerous occasions, and the opener did indeed come from a set piece. However, the headed goal came from an unlikely source in pint-sized midfielder Stefan Wolf, who took advantage of the chaotic marking to nod home Alex Nelsons freekick. Hungry for a second Kent continued to apply pressure upon Brightons defence. The game took on a tempestuous nature with the referee seeing fit to award five yellow cards by half-time. Not long after the restart Kent made it 2-0 with Marcus Jones swivelling and providing an instinctive finish to Stefan Wolfs cut back on the edge of the Brighton penalty area. His right footed drive flew past the goalkeeper to nestle in the bottom right hand side of the net. With the two goal lead Kent now played in a more relaxed style, happy to play with more patience and tact than they had in the first half. As a result the home sides passing improved as a tired and deflated Brighton were easily bypassed. The third goal was an example of this simplicity as Dan Sakal was allowed time and space in the centre of midfield, enough so to pick out Alex Nelson on the left wing who waltzed laconically past the right back before slotting the ball past the goalkeeper at his near post. Complacency set in amongst the home side allowing Brighton to score a disappointing consolation goal with ten minutes remaining; however the result was never in doubt. Meanwhile Kent are still competing in both of the cup competitions associated with their Saturday fixtures in the Kent County league. On the 18th February they host Charlton Athletic Community in the semi-final of the Kent Intermediate Challenge Shield, and on the 11th February are away to Sheppey United in the quarter-finals of the InterRegional Challenge Cup. Unbeaten in all Cup competitions and top of their BUCS league, Kent have had a fantastic first half of the season.

UKC Equestrian Reach Regionals

Nina Collins After a string of successful competition results, the University of Kent Equestrian Societys C-Team has qualified for the BUCS Trophy League Regionals in spectacular style, winning with only seven penalty points overall. The sports society is involved in a range of thingsequestrian: providing volunteers and arranging fundraising for the equestrian charity RDA, as well as having three strong competitive teams, and arranging opportunities to ride for the societys members. At a competition, four riders, one of each team, compete against each other on the same horse. Horses are drawn out of a hat and assigned to riders to compete randomly. The riders are given only seven minutes to prepare before going in in front of the judge, who is assessing the riders accuracy, style and influence on the horse. The best rider on a horse gets zero penalties; the others get the difference of their score as penalties. For team rankings, all the penalties of each member are added up and compared to the other teams. The C-Team, on the 15th February, travelled to Plumpton College in East Sussex, the hosting venue for the University of Brighton. Having competed against the teams of Brighton, Royal Holloway and Brunel, UKC emerged victorious, taking first place for the team positions, with the entire team (Iida Mahlio, Aisha Bov, Genevieve Cartilier and Emma Savory) taking the first to fourth places in the individual standings respectively, and qualifying for the BUCS Trophy League Regional competition. The event saw the team travelling to each universitys respective venue and competing in dressage and showjumping. C-Team has had an amazing season, winning three out of four competitions. The society itself is extremely proactive; members often volunteer at Cobbes Meadow, the local RDA centre in Canterbury, as well as taking part in various fundraising activities. Over the Christmas period, they produced Horses and Lace a stripped down calendar featuring team members, as the title suggests with horses and in lace. The calendar girls (and boy) have raised almost 700 for Cobbes Meadow RDA through calendar sales. Iida Mahlio, the acting Team Captain, gives her thoughts to InQuire: So far we have had an amazing season. We have been nearly unbeatable: three wins and a second place in four competitions is an excellent achievement not to mention all the individual placings! Competition days are always fun and exciting days out, and bringing a truck load of rosettes back home makes them even better. The whole team has done so well and worked hard for its success. Hopefully the good fortune weve had so far will continue, and combined with our hard work, it will take us through the regionals and all the way to the nationals - which, of course, we are going to win, too! Additionally, the society is, for the first time ever, taking part in Varsity Week 2012, competing against the CCCU Equestrian Team at Trenley Park Liveries. The Varsity teams include nonteam members, providing the chance for less experienced riders to participate in these sports packed weeks activities. The competition will take place on Thursday 8th March.

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InQuire sport

visit our website at - www.inquirelive.co.uk

74 dead in egypt football Disaster

Adam Kirk Smith Every football stadium is built to be a place of passion, and of elation, where fans can follow their teams and share the range of highs and lows they experience. Millions across the world flock to these theatres every week, to enjoy the spectacle of the game, one of the globes bestloved sports. However, in the years since 1964, more than a thousand supporters have lost their lives in major catastrophes at stadia across the world. When seeing the shocking images and reports from Egypt earlier this month, the mind of any follower of the sport runs back to those moments scarred into the collective memory of British football fans. The most commonly known would probably be the Hillsborough disaster, where 96 died in 1989, caught in a stampede in an FA Cup semi-final. That is the sort of legacy that was laid down on the first of February in Port Said, Egypt, a city on the Northern Coast of the country, when people died, and a thousand more were injured in what became the worst disaster in Egypts football history. In a country still deeply divided after the deposition of President Hosni Mubarak- a year to the day ago at the time of writing, the full repercussions of this tragedy cannot yet be known. The chaos began as individuals who appeared to be fans of the home team, Al Masry, who had won the match by three goals to one, invaded the pitch. They ran across the pitch from the end they had occupied during the game, pursuing and attacking the players and fans of the opposing side, Al Alhy, and hurling stones and other projectiles at the retreating masses. They came at us with machetes and knives...they threw some of us from the fourth floor. We were attacked horribly, and then we went to the tunnel, and the doors were locked with chains Watching the horror unfold on grainy video footage online is harrowing. The idea of joyous fans running onto the field after the game: a pitch invasion, contrasts dreadfully with what is to come. Assailants charge onto the pitch, with the bodies of fleeing fans nightmarishly crushed together at the far side, and the air thick with missiles and shouting. How this could have been allowed to happen is a mystery, and some police officers can be seen standing in formation as fans rush past them toward the masses. In the aftermath of the deaths of more than 40 people in November of last year, the police were issued with a directive not to engage with civilians by the ruling powers. Such realities highlight the context of unrest and confusion in which these events transpired. Protesters gathered in Cairo the following day to rise up and chant against the police and Egypts military rulers, who have been in place since Mubarak was overthrown. In light of the situation across the country, sport is cast into pale insignificance. It is impossible to view this tragedy outside these circumstances, or to realise the kind of terror and panic that those who lost their lives in the chaos that sprang up so quickly must have felt. How quickly, too, this will all be forgotten by followers of football in other countries. As the season goes on, more games are played, more goals are scored, and more millions of fans throng through the turnstiles. As an avid supporter myself, I can reel off any number of great Arsenal goals, where and when they were scored, and whether I was jumping up and down with friends in a pub, at home or inside the stadium, within a stones throw of the action. Truly contemplating such things is perhaps impossible for people who only know football stadiums as venues for a ball to be kicked around, with different sections of the crowd shouting, jumping and chanting, in accordance with where that ball is made to travel. The events in Port Said, and all other such tragedies that have occurred before, ask us to try, even if only for a moment, to remember them. So perhaps, we might do so, before we join the millions of others devoted to a simple expectation of will happen when we walk into a stadium and two groups wearing different coloured shirts take to the field.

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www.kentunion.co.uk/elections

Kenny Buddy Budd VP Activities

As current VP Activities Ive built working relationships with key university staff, secured storage and increased funding for societies and lowered prices in the Gulbenkian theatre and cinema. My priorities are; more access to bookable space on campus, a purpose built media and activities centre, further funding and development of the Gulbenkians student focus. Ill continue my commitment to postgrads and international students with more events focussed at these groups and a postgraduate study and social facility on campus. Re-elect me and Ill complete the projects Ive begun and build on the record breaking successes weve achieved together this year.

Laurence Durham VP Activities

Do you want a more inclusive union that delivers what you want? Do you want a night out on campus to be more than a night in the venue? Do you want a Union that supports students in realising their full potential? If the answer to all these is yes, then Im the candidate for you! Over three years at UKC Ive been involved in and lead societies spanning everything from politics to sport to music. As a result I feel I have the organisation, knowledge and vision needed to make Kent Union even better for all its members.

Albina Gjergji VP Activities

This candidate has not submitted a publicity statement for InQuire.

Sara Hook VP Activities

Set sail with Sara Hook- no society will be left behind! Do you want extra skills for your CV? Have you thought about doing an International volunteering placement? Do you think standout sessions need developing? Does your society need more storage or social space? Better sponsorship? Or better transport? If your answer is Yes, vote me for your VP of Activities. I intend to enhance your University experience creating more employability opportunities, more volunteering placements and ensuring that you enjoy your time at Kent University. This is a big year for Activities; make sure you are part of it!

Aaron Watkins VP Activities

To be Activities VP, would be a dream come true. I have some amazing ideas, in which I want to see implemented. Societies will receive more recognition for all that they do throughout the year, including more money and space. I want volunteering, and fundraising to be fun, and rewarding, including integration of media to Activities. I am reliable, dedicated, passionate and will give 200% in all that I do. I believe in my policies, and believe that they are achievable, and will make Kent Union a better institution. Aaron Watkins, YOUR VP ACTIVITIES 2012-2013.

Sharona Say VP Welfare

Hi, Im Sharona, a third year business student here at UKC. I think I would be well suited to the role of VP welfare for Kent Union because I am passionate about the subject, well organised and my ideas will benefit the students at our university. I was president of the Yoga society and during that time I helped people with disabilities feel comfortable in a social environment and help with exercising as well as relaxation, I also learned many skills that would help in this role such as people skills, events planning, time management and conflict management. New Voice

Andrew Thrapp VP Welfare

Im Andy Thrapp and Im running for Vice President of Welfare. If elected I will represent the interests of students in finding solutions for everyday problems such as broken washing machines and dryers, which cost many students invaluable time and money. I will raise awareness of predatory landlord practices for students looking for off campus housing. I will be an international student voice in Kent Union, as well as a liaison for all student concerns. Give Yourself a voice at UKC and vote for Andy Thrapp as Vice President of Welfare!

Lisa Ashworth VP Education

Lisa for Vice President for Education! I believe that only first years should be scheduled for nine oclock in the morning. The first year of studying does not count towards the final degree and first years generally live on campus. More fiction books should be in the library helping students unwind after a long day. They are also useful for literature students needing fiction for their dissertations. Languages can be difficult to learn: a scheme should be created letting first years get help from second years who can receive help from fourth years. Read my blog for more information! http://www. lisaforeducation.blogspot.com/

Vid Calovski VP Education

With 9,000 fees being introduced next year, now is the time to fight for value for money. I believe that students at Kent should get as much as they can from their education. If elected I will push for students to have a choice when it comes to assessment, whether they choose to write an essay, or whether they opt to do a group research project, the choice should lie with the student. This will provide students with an ability to expand the ways in which they learn, providing a more complete educational experience.

Alex Murray VP Education

I am standing because I bring the experience of four years at Kent and a variety of elected roles such as Education zone member and as your NUS delegate 2012. Because of the University groups I sit on as a representative of students and the policy I have personally enacted on concessional standards and methods of learning. Because Ive spent time fighting for students - for better facilities, feedback and representation - and wish to improve study space, expand varieties of assessment and teaching and providing better representation. Please recognise my Experience, Record and Vision and Choose Murray for Education

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Kent Union Leadership Elections 2012 - The Candidates

Abdulla Al Shuwaikh VP Sports

This candidate has not submitted a publicity statement for Inquire.

Joanna Baldwin VP Sports

Hey, Im Joanna Baldwin; a 3rd year Anthropology student. Im President of Lacrosse, a Sports Federation Executive and sit on the Sports Review. I would love to be your Sports VP. My main aims are to unite clubs with the introduction of a unified kit and to improve publicity of matches so everyone can enjoy them whether they play or not. Also fight for less lectures on Wednesdays with a bigger, better sports night including deals and promotions for those involved in sports clubs. Finally, make training space on campus more achievable. Vote Bald-to-Win to see these changes and more.

Matthew Harris VP Sports

Matt Harris #Sports Vice President Im currently in my 4th year here at Kent, studying an MA in International Commercial Law. I am the best candidate for the job, following my experience in various sporting roles, a lot of which stems from my experience this year as Chairman of the University football club. I am passionate about my sport, I love playing, Im ambitious and I want Sport to improve at Kent for everyone. I would like it to be more accessible, more unified and for there to be more opportunities for students to get involved. Together Everyone Achieves More.

Ron Mbakwe VP Sports

Hi! Im Ron and Im serious about sport at Kent Uni. Im currently captain of Keynes Athletic FC in the college football league and I was previously Head of Sport for the ACS. My time at the university has given me a chance to see what areas of sporting life are good and also which areas can be improved upon. In my manifesto I propose to campaign for separation of gym membership from relevant sport membership, campaign for an additional 3G artificial pitch and campaign to keep the two Park Wood football teams among many other innovative ideas.

Francesca Plom VP Sports

If elected I will work closely with the sport centre to get Kent Union a bigger say with the facility space we use and for the best possible outcomes for the sports clubs. I will also take pride in the organisation of varsity and will work hard to increase its publicity. I will work on getting better coaches for clubs. If elected I will also work alongside the sports centre to encourage more cooperation between Kent Union clubs and the running of InterCollege leagues to help develop stronger development within clubs. Vote in Kent Union Elections Vote Fran Plom for

Dont forget R.O.N (Re-open nominations)

RON is an opportunity to re-open nominations if you believe that there are no suitable candidates. RON stands for Re-Open Nominations. Kent Union believes that you, the voter, should always have the choice to make a positive vote, even if you dont agree with the policies of any of the candidates standing. This means that even those candidates who appear to be standing alone for a post still need to convince you that they are the best person for the job. Kent Union would urge you to consider this carefully. Dont be prepared to vote for someone to represent you if you genuinely dont think they are the best person for the job. Equally, dont think that not voting will help either. The winners of these elections are the voice of the students on how this university develops and delivers its service to you. If you really dont care whether your university is any good or not and decide not to vote, then the university will take that as a very positive message that they dont need to listen to students. You will then find it much harder to be heard if you have a problem. Stand up and be counted and make a positive vote. Vote for every post and, if you dont agree that the candidate is good enough to represent you, then vote for RON. But most importantly of all, VOTE!

InQuire will be back in three weeks with our Varsity special!

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