SPAGHETTI JUNCTION FEBRUARY 2009

Your Free Union MagazineFebruary 2010The Celebration Issue

Spaghetti Junction: Celebrating the work of students. Now in 3D

February 2010 new.indd 1 11/02/2010 17:21:55

“If we don’t succeed, we run the risk of failure.”Dan Quayle

“We understand that as a student, getting yourself on the road for the first time can be expensive. That’s why we’ve created the Student Bonus Accelerator – a 6 month policy which gives you the equivalent of 1 years No Claims Discount in just 6 months*.”

Ian Passmore – Managing Director

Car Insurance

Get a more Intelligent Quote

Visit: endsleigh.co.uk/six Call: 0800 028 7255*No claims discount will be earned providing no claims are made, excluding windscreen claims, or where all costs have been recovered. 1 years no

claims discount is not transferrable to another insurer at the first 6 month renewal. After 6 months, provided you have not made a claim, we will give you a discount equivalent to 1 years no claims on the renewal of your policy with us. If you cease to be a student, but have not made any other changes to

your policy then we will continue this offer with the same insurer, provided that your new occupation remains acceptable. Endsleigh Insurance Services Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. This can be checked on the FSA Register by visiting its website at www.fsa.gov.uk

Visit us direct


SPAGHETTI junction 3

THE CELEBRATION ISSUEEDITOR’S NOTE

Editor-in-Chief: Kat [email protected]

Editor: Georgie [email protected]

Deputy Editor: Poppy [email protected]

News and Features Editor: Kirsty [email protected]

Arts and Entertainment Editor: David [email protected]

Welcome back ladies and gents. Christmas is but a mere distant memory but this is our first issue this term – so yet again we’ve had a lot to pack in. We are celebrating Spaghetti Junction’s Birthday and all that we’ve been up to over the last year, so we’ve chosen the creme de la creme of the SJ calendar to share with you.This will be my last issue as editor, so I’d just like to thank everyone who’s contributed to the magazine in any way, shape or form over the last year. We’ve had some truly talented people pass through our doors… and I hope it continues that way. I’d like to say a special thank you to Poppy French, who is talented in so many ways, Kirsty Booth and Dave Breese for their amazing editorial skills,

Indy Sagoo and Alex Nankivell for all their hard work at The SJ Sessions and finally Kat Higgs for giving us all support when its been needed.So much work goes into each edition and I am truly grateful to have been part of it. Georgie CampbellEditor

UP FRONTSpaghetti Times 4

Spaghetti Junction Scrapbook 6The SJ Sessions 10

STUDENT CULTUREBIAD End of Year Show 11

Student of the Month 12Margaret Street Fundraiser 16

Poker Tournament 19Birmingham City’s Got Talent 20

Union News 22City North Gym 25The Oscars 2010 27

Love at Uni 28Cookery Corner 30

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENTWhat’s Hot What’s Not 32

Capsule’s 10 Anniversary 34Yeah Yeah Yeah’s Gig Review 36

Reviews 38Horoscopes 42

Illustration : House Sparrows by Sarah Lynch3rd Year Illustration Student

Fanciful cookery corner styleeee timessssss-eyyy.Forgive me cookery corner recruits, but it’s time to celebrate love. St Valentine’s Day is creeping up on us and what could be better for a romantic evening in/last minute present than cooking a sneakily seductive meal for your better half?Oysters with Bacon and Tomato SauceLet’s face it, when we think of romantic dining, oysters are the rst thing that come to mind. But, then again, let’s face it, the average student doesn’t have an oyster fork or the ability to ‘shuck’ open an oyster shell and many of us land-locked folk haven’t got fresh oysters to hand. But, for a treat, if you manage to discover your hidden away shmonger or fresh sh isle and they have some of the little beauties staring at you, you’ll reap the rewards when you treat your other half. This recipe is simple, sweet and the perfect way to kick off a romantic meal. Add Tabasco sauce for an extra kick if you so choose.

Ingredients (per person)3 Rashers of smoked bacon3 Oysters, in their shells55g chopped tomatoes

Grill the bacon until crispy and chop it up nely when it’s cool enough to not burn you. When you’ve nished with the grill, preheat the oven to 180˚C (or, if you have a separate grill and oven, preheat the oven from the start). Open up the oysters (I told you it would be difcult) and get rid of the pointless top half. Score the stringy bit connecting the shell to the oyster so it can be eaten easier later. If you bought them on the half shell (clever bear), then do the same.Add a spoonful of chopped tomatoes and a little bit of bacon to each oyster, place on a baking tray and cook for 10-12 minutes.Simply serve. If using Tabasco sauce, add a drop of two to each oyster for that extra kick.

Valentine PizzaOh sneaky sneaky. I’m not a genius, but, you know, sometimes I can pull it off. A heart-shaped pizza is perfect for sharing, it’s not overly heavy and it’s quick, simple and tasty when home-made. It’s also stupidly mushy but whether your date will appreciate this is your call.

Cookeryorner

written by Ben Harrow

“If we don’t succeed, we run the risk of failure.”Dan Quayle

“We understand that as a student, getting yourself on the road for the first time can be expensive. That’s why we’ve created the Student Bonus Accelerator – a 6 month policy which gives you the equivalent of 1 years No Claims Discount in just 6 months*.”

Ian Passmore – Managing Director

Car Insurance

Get a more Intelligent Quote

Visit: endsleigh.co.uk/six Call: 0800 028 7255*No claims discount will be earned providing no claims are made, excluding windscreen claims, or where all costs have been recovered. 1 years no

claims discount is not transferrable to another insurer at the first 6 month renewal. After 6 months, provided you have not made a claim, we will give you a discount equivalent to 1 years no claims on the renewal of your policy with us. If you cease to be a student, but have not made any other changes to

your policy then we will continue this offer with the same insurer, provided that your new occupation remains acceptable. Endsleigh Insurance Services Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. This can be checked on the FSA Register by visiting its website at www.fsa.gov.uk

Visit us direct


4 SPAGHETTI junction

UP front spaghetti times

Birmingham, FEBrUarY 2010

Worried about debt? Not sure how to save money on your fuel bills?Students often find themselves in mounting piles of debt as the second term comes to an end.Birmingham Financial Inclusion Partnership are offering a number of workshops throughout the city and surrounding areas.Working with the Citizens Advice Bureau,

Trading Standards among many others, the workshops provide helpful information on borrowing and saving money.A full list of workshops is available on the Union website, with the next scheduled meetings on February 25 at Handsworth Baptist Church Centre from 1pm.There is no need to book, just simply turn up.

SAVE THE VILLAGE INN


PHOTOGRAPH OF THE MONTHBy Theatre Performance and Event Design Student Lisa Meller

January 22, the Village welcomed back many of its long lost friends with open arms.The Friday night “Save the Village Party” was a hit, with the place overflowing with students of all ages, encouraged by the free buffet.Now the decision lies with Union Executives… to keep or not to keep, that is the question. Keep your fingers crossed fellow Hamsteadees and Hamsteadettes.

The infamous Village Inn fell under the threat of closure after sales dropped. Forming the only social space at the student accommodation campus, Hamstead, The Village has stood strong through many generations of first years.Students flocked to its side in a one week bid to protect the SU bar from closing. Hosting a series of events from Monday January 18 – Friday

DEBT ADVICE WORKSHOPS



UP front spaghetti times

FINAL YEAR STUDENTS! PRINT CREDITS AND AMAZON VOUCHERS

UP FOR GRABS!

STUDENT SERVICES CELEBRATE DIVERSITY AND WELLBEING

Are you a final year undergraduate? Do you want your opinions on your student experience to be heard?The National Student Survey (NSS) is an annual survey that mainly targets final year undergraduates throughout the UK, asking questions about their learning experience.Feedback from the survey is used by both the University and Students’ Union to improve student services. Recent examples include extending library opening hours during

peak times of the year and improving e-book provision.

How do I take part?To find out more and to complete the survey visit: www.thestudentsurvey.com

Complete the survey before 30th April you’ll have the opportunity to win £50-worth of Amazon vouchers. Complete the survey online and you’ll receive 100 print credits!

Student Services are set for a one week celebration of diversity and wellbeing next month.The event will take place between Monday March 8 and Friday March 12 2010 including a two day event in Baker Hall, City North Campus on March 9 - 10.Aiming to promote wellbeing and highlight the

benefits of living in such a diverse culture, the week encompasses a wide range of activities designed to highlight and encourage these benefits.The campaign has been a strong part of Student Services’ agenda since November 2009, with this week hoping to raise awareness amongst more students.

Students and staff are being strongly encouraged to get involved by developing a demonstration, exhibition or performance which coincides with the theme.Anyone who may be interested are asked to contact Kathy Noren or Becky Pickering at Student Services or email [email protected].

INTRAMURAL FOOTBALL

Birmingham City Students’ Union have launched the first intramural six a side football league.Ever fancied taking on your lecturer? Or even rival course mates? Well thanks to this new event, now you can! Starting on February 25, the challenge lasts six weeks with games held each Thursday between 6 and 8pm. Visit the Union website for more information.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SPAGHETTI JUNCTION!

Spaghetti Junction celebrates its second Birthday as a student run publication this month. The Birthday celebrations lay in the wake of a new editorial team, so watch this space for many new faces and ideas flowing your way.

FREE BUS SERVICE

CONTINUESA free student bus services in now in operation from The Coppice to Tesco’s on Aston Lane.The service has been in action since November 2009, but continues through the Spring Term.Many students are pleased with the service, as the choice between Tesco and One Stop Shopping centre appears to be a welcomed change.Timetable on the Union website www.birminghamcitysu.com.


WWW. THESTUDENTSURVEY.COM

Are you a final year undergraduate? Do you want your opinions on your student

experience to be heard?Take part in the National Student Survey.

It’s quick to complete and you’ll be helping prospective students make the right choices of

where and what to study.

e ecHIGHER EDUCATION

FUNDING COUNCIL FOR ENGLAND

NSS_Poster_English_FINAL_A4 - FOR PRINTER.indd 1 02/12/2009 16:31:25



UP front meet the execs

SpagFestTerm Three - 08/09

Sports and Activities Awards

Term Three - 08/09

Happy Birthday Spaghetti JunctionCelebrating our second Birthday as the student-run publication that we are, we thought it was about time to look back on all that we’ve achieved in the last year... and boy, there’s a lot to get through!

With a constantly increasing membership, Spaghetti Junction has grown from strength to strength in the last twelve months… but what do we really get up to?

We’ve tried our utmost best to get ourselves known to as many of you as possible out there this year. As a result, our team double in size in September. Yet there is so much more to us than this wonderful 48 page magazine.

Winning “Most Improved Media Group” at the Sports and Activities Awards last year set the benchmark high for this year’s editorial team. The award gave the boost we needed, making us all stand a little taller and prouder amongst our fellow peers.

Launching our very own SpagFest festival, which took flight in May 2009, we showcased some of Birmingham City University’s great talent and style.


UP front spaghetti scrapbook



UP front meet the execs

The SJ SessionsTerm One - 09/10

Freshers Fayre

Term One - 09/10Pr

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09/1

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Yet this academic year has seen Spaghetti Junction launch into a new light. The overwhelming response from the first year freshmen amongst us was… well… overwhelming. The talent pool amongst the new comers was absolutely astounding.

Not only did our team double in size after Freshers Fayre, but the standard of writing, design and online activity sky rocketed out of this world.

Ooohhh and we got some fancy t-shirts made!!

Taking matters into our own hands further, Term One saw the success of “The SJ Sessions”.

Showcasing some of Birmingham’s finest bands, from Arcadian Kicks to Max Raptor, each night had its own unique vibe to it.

The varied music genres attracted all sorts of students to the lovely Bar 42 each week, helping us to firmly line the inside of our Media Groups fundraising pot.

We didn’t stop there though, oh no. Hosting our very own cake stalls with the publication of each new issue made sure we got you guys reading before the next issue came about.

Circling each campus we made some new friends and fans along the way, so watch out as we come your way in the upcoming year.

Although cake is an excellent way to tempt you hungry students in, our lovely PR team got in the swing of things, promoting each issue around the City North Campus.

This year also marked the launch of Spaghetti Junction’s very own blog. Unable to fit all our lovely writers work into one 48 page magazine, we have finally admitted defeat and launched ourselves into the World Wide Web.

With reviews, features and much more, there is something for everyone. So if you haven’t already, check us out… www.spaghettijunct.wordpress.com.

With all this in the bag, we can hardly control ourselves in the anticipation of what the new editorial team will bring… so watch this space.

UP front spaghetti scrapbook



8 SPAGHETTI junction8 SPAGHETTI junction

UP front free wednesdays

Georgie CampbellEditor

Georgie CampbellEditor

Three years ago I found an empty table mixed in amongst the sports teams at Freshers Fayre. On the table an A4 piece of paper with the name “Spaghetti Junction” typed anonymously across it. This marked the beginning of my SJ adventure.

Publishing my first article in the first week of my first year, I knew I would be involved in the magazine for the rest of my university life.

So much has changed and I’m glad to have been part of it throughout. Taking on more responsibilities has taught me more about the world of journalism than any class, work experience fortnight or words of wisdom could.

The role has kept my love for journalism alive. Not always able to write many articles within my Media and Communications course, I truly do not know what I would have done without the magazine.

Having shown real world editors the work we produce some are shocked at the outstanding quality produced by students here at Birmingham City University. We have a good thing going here, so much so I can’t imagine uni life without it.

Developing not only my writing skills, but communication, team work and above all grammatical abilities the magazine has brought a new and exciting character to my CV. I will forever be in Spaghetti Junction’s debt.



SPAGHETTI junction 9SPAGHETTI junction 9

UP front free wednesdays

Poppy FrenchDeputy Editor

I started at Spaghetti Junction a mere first year wanting to write some music reviews, bit of photography with no clue of where it could all take me.

When the opportunity arose to redesign the magazine I knew I wanted to take working here further. Media excites me but apart from the odd bit here and there, writing is not my thing. Even putting this together is like drawing blood out of a stone!

Working for Spaghetti Junction has not been like that. With our talented writing team I have had the space to follow what I love and enjoy, helping to create something visually our team can be proud of.

I have met so many creative people while working here, making new friends and those all-important contacts. I hope one day to work within fashion photography in some shape or form and I have found the magazine has given me something unusual and amazing to put on my CV.

As I apply for work experience and internships I can see the magazine is helping to take my life onto the next stage. It has been extremely hard work and can be heart breaking when it doesn’t come out just the way you’ve planned, but without it I know my last three years would have been dull and perhaps with a little more sleep!

Poppy FrenchDeputy Editor and Design Editor




Student Culture the sj sessions



If you hadn’t already worked it out by now, BIAD is definitely the beating, creative heart of Birmingham City University. If you study or have ever visited the the campus, the sight of artistic types bustling around with arms full of fabric, guitar cases and paintbrushes will be a familiar sight. Every year, the BIAD section of Birmingham City University hosts an end of year graduate party, situated in a marquee in ‘the quad’. This event is an opportunity to showcase the very best BIAD graduate’s work, from fashion, to art, to design and textiles. 2010 see’s a first of its kind event being organised exclusively by BIAD students in an effort to completely overhaul the event and make it a night to remember!This is the first year the University are granting a large budget for students to arrange an extra special graduation party. Second year Theatre Designstudent Emily Woodall spoke of the upcoming event: ‘’The event is going to be the first of its kind! There will be performers, a showcase of students work, exciting music acts and a glorious feast

accompanied with beautiful champagne!’’ Emily is just one of the many second year Theatre Design students who pitched their ideas to The Dean in a Dragon’s Den-type scenario, trying to get their own vision for the design and set of the party. This was then commissioned for budget and made into a reality.Rosh McNamee commented on the positive relationship the BIAD upholds with all its creative courses: ‘‘Our design in context project allows us, as theatre designers, to show not only our talents but that of the other courses in BIAD. We all know that we love BIAD & that BIAD loves our graduates, therefore they deserve only the best when it comes to an amazing send off. We are more than honoured to be asked and think its great to be able to give something back to our university and those who work so hard within their courses.’’BIAD student Amy Hawthorne is just one of the many looking forward to the big event, ‘‘I think it’s a great way of bringing our Uni together. The graduates deserve an amazing send off ’’.

Illustration: MA Visual Communication student Eva

Student Culture BIAD degree show


As this is a bumper celebratory issue, bringing together achivements at Birmingham City University, we’ve got two double page spreads on Students of the month. Enjoy!

The sensitive and thought provoking work of Graphic Communications student, Genevieve De Lande Long, first came into my vision when I saw a film of her face filling a wall at the GASH exhibition held at Urban Outfitters.

This interesting and difficult piece of film brought up issues surrounding mental illness, a key theme in Genevieve’s work, with this particular sample going on to win her the Johnson prize fund for outstanding work at BIAD. I met up with Genevieve to discuss her latest work, a piece of much needed advertising for the charity Mental Health Awareness.

So Genevieve what were you trying to achieve with your latest piece of work?

“My aim was to find an effective way to raise awareness and inform people about Bipolar Disorder, as this is something that has had an impact on my life.“This is an example of a design for a billboard poster that would be part of a campaign to raise the profile of Mental Health Awareness Week; after all there’s no point having an awareness week if nobody is actually aware it exists!”

Ah I see. So there is not much information on this charity, how did you feel you could convey their important message?

“The idea was to try and find a way to convey the message without patronising, offending orstereotyping, which was difficult because of the need to appeal to a broad target audience; sufferers, helpers of sufferers (including friends and family), as well as people who know nothing about Bipolar.Using typography helped me get round this problem, and enabled me to visualise the idea without using stereotypical images.

“The style of the piece is based on Haynes Manual drawings, and building the type in this way allowed me to convey my message of deconstructing the technical aspects of the disorder to find the individual’s reality.”

We have printed Genevieve’s work landscape so that its large enough to see all the lovely details.





When I was asking around the corridors of BIAD about exceptional students, consistently the name Amar Kakad kept cropping up. Never one not to follow a lead I perused finding Amar to be the charming, polite and most importantly outstanding artist everyone said he would be. Winner and nomi-nated for a staggering eight competitions I emailed Amar a couple of questions, this is what he had to say about his work and achievements at Birmingham City University.

So Amar, what is it that you do?I would like to consider myself as a thinker and a visual communicator. I have always been in-quisitive and observed that design is all around us and it is up to us how we use it to communi-cate effectively.

Can you tell me a little bit your work?My artwork revolves around heavy manipula-tion and attention to detail, keeping in mind the purpose of every element. I execute my vision by researching other designers and exploring different design mediums. I do not like to conform to one style. I use Typography, Motion Design, 3D and Image Manipulation in my work.

What are you plans for when you graduate?After the completion of my course, I would like

to acquire experience within the design industry before embarking on a MA program. In the course of time, I would like to establish as a freelance designer and launch a design consultancy of my own.

Check out more of Amar’s work at www.amarkakad.info

Stephanie Reeves and Sam Tucker created our wonderful 3D cover this month. I asked Steph about the poster. It was created for an exhibition at BIAD ‘Typographic Horizons’ along the query “Where are women in Typography?”. The poster

is reminiscent of old 60s film posters, in which women were portrayed as very weak and often the victims of the storyline. It was created in 3D as this was when the first 3D horror films were emerging.



When I was asking around the corridors of BIAD about exceptional students, consistently the name Amar Kakad kept cropping up. Never one not to follow a lead I perused finding Amar to be the charming, polite and most importantly outstanding artist everyone said he would be. Winner and nomi-nated for a staggering eight competitions I emailed Amar a couple of questions, this is what he had to say about his work and achievements at Birmingham City University.

So Amar, what is it that you do?I would like to consider myself as a thinker and a visual communicator. I have always been in-quisitive and observed that design is all around us and it is up to us how we use it to communi-cate effectively.

Can you tell me a little bit your work?My artwork revolves around heavy manipula-tion and attention to detail, keeping in mind the purpose of every element. I execute my vision by researching other designers and exploring different design mediums. I do not like to conform to one style. I use Typography, Motion Design, 3D and Image Manipulation in my work.

What are you plans for when you graduate?After the completion of my course, I would like

to acquire experience within the design industry before embarking on a MA program. In the course of time, I would like to establish as a freelance designer and launch a design consultancy of my own.

Check out more of Amar’s work at www.amarkakad.info


There’s been no end of things for us to spend our pennies on at BIAD lately. Between the cake sales and stalls I discovered the Margaret Street Arts ‘Naked’ calendar. Intrigued? You should be!Talking to one of the calendar’s creators and naked model Tom Woodcock about what this calendar girls-esq project was all about.

Firstly, a calendar… what’s it all about?“We made the calendar because we wanted an interesting way to raise money for the degree show whilst promoting

Margaret Street as an exciting, creative and innovative place to study. “The money goes towards the costs of the annual catalogue, which shows pieces of work from the students graduating that year.”

When you’re flicking through the calendar, apart from the nudity, the first thing you notice is how the pictures are heavily influenced by famous works of art, clever idea, what with you being art students and all… how did it all come about?“When we first thought of the idea it was a bit of a joke. But

then we realised it had potential and a lot of enthusiasm from some of the other guys in our year. “We were fortunate to have a brilliant photographer in Mark Acton on the course. All the guys involved put in loads of effort to get it done, especially Glen Fry and myself with the Photoshop-ing and Fin Bell with the cover design.”

We think it’s a brilliant idea, how well has it gone down?“We have sold 185 of the 200 we ordered and fully expect to sell the rest. It has been very well received; we were selling



them for one week in uni before the Christmas break. We’ve also been around Conservatoire, the Jewellery school and Gosta green. It went down especially well with people that recognised the original art works - and weren’t scared of seeing some skin.”

I see! So tell me about the making of my favorite image the life-drawing picture.“Those who bought the calendar loved it. We didn’t

originally think of having John Wigley as the clothed model but we thought, why not just ask him? It makes the image having him there I think. “This was probably the most fun image we did. It was the only one we shot in one of the studio spaces, all the others we did in a room with a lockable door and curtains to discourage prying eyes! So we wanted to do it quite quickly, but at the same time everyone was keen to get their boxers off, even the guys

hiding behind the canvases.”If you’re still interested in buying a calendar there are a limited number left at Margaret Street. The private End of Year Degree Show viewing takes place on June 14, so pop down and see some top artistic talent.


Bluffing With Your Muffin:BCU Poker Society’s Charity Fundraiser.

Ricardo Figari from the BCU Poker Society explained how he came up with the fundraising idea: ‘‘There was a TV show in America called ‘Two Months Two Million’ which had four high stakes online players going for a massive goal in Vegas. Being a poker nut, I was glued to this every week and thought we could do something similar and put it to a good cause’’. This 1M1K challenge looks to be a great event and the rst of its kind here at Birmingham City Students’ Union. So don’t hesitate to head down to Bar42, take a leaf out of Lady Gaga’s book and start ‘blufng with your mufn’, all the name of charity! The guys at the Poker Society have been looking forward to this month for a long time and urge:’’If anyone sees us in or around the Union building then please grab us for a game. Even if you do lose then it’s going to a worthy cause so it’s not the end of the world, and you’ll have fun in the process!’’.

and as we build our bankroll, we’ll play in some bigger games going for the £1,000 target’’.If poker isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the 1M1K challenge by watching the forfeits already set in place for the losers. “Tiger TV will be lming as much of it as they can, with penalty stunts lined up for whoever makes the least money in each week. Watching the women’s hockey team blast balls at one of us should be pretty fun to watch!” Jonathan added.The forfeits will surely make for entertaining communal viewing at Bar42. The lads won’t be able to bluff their way out of these situations!

When writing this article, I thought it would be all too easy to start off with a Lady Gaga pun, but I’m going to anyway... February sees BCU’s Poker Society challenging students to pull off their very best ‘p-p- p poker face’ in a series of fundraising tournaments and games. Four students from the BCU Poker Society will be trying to raise £1000 in a ‘One Month One Thousand (1M1K) fundraising challenge. Taking a leaf out of James Bond’s book, the group are transforming our very own Bar42 into a Casino Royale, playing any student that fancies the challenge whilst hosting a variety of casino games and society tournaments. Jonathan Kazaei, a BCU Poker Society member, spoke to Spaghetti Junction about the challenge: ‘‘1M1K is basically four guys playing a bunch of poker during February and giving the winnings to charity. We’ll start off playing in Bar42 against anyone who wants a game for a couple of quid,

Ricardo

ONE MONTHONE THOUSAND

Kane Esco Jonathan


Bluffing With Your Muffin:BCU Poker Society’s Charity Fundraiser.

Ricardo Figari from the BCU Poker Society explained how he came up with the fundraising idea: ‘‘There was a TV show in America called ‘Two Months Two Million’ which had four high stakes online players going for a massive goal in Vegas. Being a poker nut, I was glued to this every week and thought we could do something similar and put it to a good cause’’. This 1M1K challenge looks to be a great event and the rst of its kind here at Birmingham City Students’ Union. So don’t hesitate to head down to Bar42, take a leaf out of Lady Gaga’s book and start ‘blufng with your mufn’, all the name of charity! The guys at the Poker Society have been looking forward to this month for a long time and urge:’’If anyone sees us in or around the Union building then please grab us for a game. Even if you do lose then it’s going to a worthy cause so it’s not the end of the world, and you’ll have fun in the process!’’.

and as we build our bankroll, we’ll play in some bigger games going for the £1,000 target’’.If poker isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the 1M1K challenge by watching the forfeits already set in place for the losers. “Tiger TV will be lming as much of it as they can, with penalty stunts lined up for whoever makes the least money in each week. Watching the women’s hockey team blast balls at one of us should be pretty fun to watch!” Jonathan added.The forfeits will surely make for entertaining communal viewing at Bar42. The lads won’t be able to bluff their way out of these situations!

When writing this article, I thought it would be all too easy to start off with a Lady Gaga pun, but I’m going to anyway... February sees BCU’s Poker Society challenging students to pull off their very best ‘p-p- p poker face’ in a series of fundraising tournaments and games. Four students from the BCU Poker Society will be trying to raise £1000 in a ‘One Month One Thousand (1M1K) fundraising challenge. Taking a leaf out of James Bond’s book, the group are transforming our very own Bar42 into a Casino Royale, playing any student that fancies the challenge whilst hosting a variety of casino games and society tournaments. Jonathan Kazaei, a BCU Poker Society member, spoke to Spaghetti Junction about the challenge: ‘‘1M1K is basically four guys playing a bunch of poker during February and giving the winnings to charity. We’ll start off playing in Bar42 against anyone who wants a game for a couple of quid,

Ricardo

ONE MONTHONE THOUSAND

Kane Esco Jonathan

Written by Phil GordonDesigned by Chris Smith


That’s right guys; Birmingham City’s Got Talent is back with a vengeance. Set to find the next star amongst Birmingham City students, Talent is one of the most looked forward to events of the year.Now in the heart of the qualifying heats, the show looks to be bigger and better than ever before. Kick starting the weekly event last month we have had more and more unusual, yet talents acts take to the stage at Bar 42, City North Campus.With the all singing, all dancing acts battling to make it through to the Semi Finals, we thought we’d find out exactly why the competition is so hot…Last year’s winner and all time funny man, Matt Frost, revealed his love for the event, commenting: “It gave me a huge confidence boost because the people

voting are your age and in your position so it’s like acceptance from your peers.“The competition was tough, but I think it helped that I was a comedian because it made me a little different from the rest of the acts”.With £200 up for grabs and the chance to perform at the end of year ball, the competition is hot. Come down and see what all the fuss is about.Thrown in at the deep end as this year’s compare, Matt said: “I think It’s a great way to refine your skills as well as test out new things”, so take it from the man himself.See you next week. Heats: January 21 – February 25, Semi Finals March 4 – March 11 and the Grand Final Thursday March 18.

Student Culture birmingham city’s got talent


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FROM JUST

£98 p/w

The Canalside is positioned in the heart of Birmingham and close to allcity centre campuses. Students can expect en suite bathrooms, stylishcommunal living and an on-site gym with all the latest equipment.The Canalside, Lower Loveday Street, Birmingham B19 3SJ

� Close to all city centre campuses

� En suite with mini fridges � On-site management

team and security� Communal area in flats

with TV & Sky� 24hr security call out

� 24hr emergency repairs service

� Dishwashers� Broadband & IPTV

available� Studios available� On-site gym exclusively

for The Canalside


0121 380 3939Find out more about The Canalside or BOOK NOW on

or visitwww.derwentstudents.comor [email protected]

THE CANALSIDESTUDENT LIVING MADE EASY

ALL INCLUSIVE RENTS INCLUDING:

FROM JUST

£98 p/w

The Canalside is positioned in the heart of Birmingham and close to allcity centre campuses. Students can expect en suite bathrooms, stylishcommunal living and an on-site gym with all the latest equipment.The Canalside, Lower Loveday Street, Birmingham B19 3SJ

� Close to all city centre campuses

� En suite with mini fridges � On-site management

team and security� Communal area in flats

with TV & Sky� 24hr security call out

� 24hr emergency repairs service

� Dishwashers� Broadband & IPTV

available� Studios available� On-site gym exclusively

for The Canalside


It’s that time of year again: posters go up, banners appear from nowhere and suddenly you can’t get across campus without someone pestering you to vote for them. So what’s it all about?

Every year the Union elects the students who will be in charge of everything (that’s everything!) the Union does, from pressuring the University to make things better, to providing sports teams, societies and big nights out.

You might think that voting doesn’t matter and won’t change anything, but you’re wrong: whether it’s ghting for longer library opening hours or campaigning against higher tuition fees, the Union’s elected

on all aspects of your University experience. By voting for the candidates who want the same things you want, you can make a concrete difference

to what will happen across the University next year.

Even if you don’t think the Union has anything to offer you or you don’t like any of the candidates, you can still vote to ‘Re-Open Nominations’, preventing candidates you don’t think

are good enough from getting elected.

Voting will take place across all campuses between 24th February and 5th March. Visit

for more details of when and where you can vote.

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

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

February Elections Special 2010

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

Visit for more Union News!

Join us on 5th March at Bar 42 for the traditional Friday election night at Bonkers! As the Exec Elections come to an end on Friday, the votes are counted and results announced live. We’ll also be offering 2-4-1 Cocktails all night and the best drinks prices and tunes in town! £2 before 11pm/ £3 after.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Birmingham City Students’ Union is holding a week of Involvement Fairs at all campuses giving you the chance to nd out how to gain essential experience to improve your CV.

The 22nd-26th February will see external Volunteer Organisations and our own Student Groups promoting their opportunities for involvement.

Visit www.birminghamcitysu.com/involvementweek for more information.

For the rst time this academic year, Student Council is to be held at a different campus. Normally hosted at City North, the next Student Council will take place on 25th February at 5.30pm in room 313, City South campus.

Communications Ofcer Kat Higgs said: “Although travel expenses are provided, it’s unfair for those students who are interested in Council, who aren’t based in Perry Barr, to have to travel across the City.

“Council are already looking at new, accessible ways for Students to get their voices heard both in Student Council and at a local level.”

Council is essential to democracy within the Students’ Union.

There’s no pressure to join, so come along and see if you like it! As it’s Exec election time, you’ll get the chance to grill the candidates.

All students from across the University are invited to attend! Visit www.birminghamcitysu.com/council for more information.

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

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

Birmingham City Students’ Union is hosting its rst ever Student Activities’ Ball at Edgbaston Cricket Ground on the 2nd May. Everyone is welcome to join in the party and recognise the achievements of all student groups. For moreinformation, contact:[email protected]

Bonkers Exec Election

24th February-5th MarchCheck www.briminghamcitysu.com/elections for info

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


It’s that time of year again: posters go up, banners appear from nowhere and suddenly you can’t get across campus without someone pestering you to vote for them. So what’s it all about?

Every year the Union elects the students who will be in charge of everything (that’s everything!) the Union does, from pressuring the University to make things better, to providing sports teams, societies and big nights out.

You might think that voting doesn’t matter and won’t change anything, but you’re wrong: whether it’s ghting for longer library opening hours or campaigning against higher tuition fees, the Union’s elected

on all aspects of your University experience. By voting for the candidates who want the same things you want, you can make a concrete difference

to what will happen across the University next year.

Even if you don’t think the Union has anything to offer you or you don’t like any of the candidates, you can still vote to ‘Re-Open Nominations’, preventing candidates you don’t think

are good enough from getting elected.

Voting will take place across all campuses between 24th February and 5th March. Visit

for more details of when and where you can vote.

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

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

February Elections Special 2010

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

Visit for more Union News!

Join us on 5th March at Bar 42 for the traditional Friday election night at Bonkers! As the Exec Elections come to an end on Friday, the votes are counted and results announced live. We’ll also be offering 2-4-1 Cocktails all night and the best drinks prices and tunes in town! £2 before 11pm/ £3 after.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Birmingham City Students’ Union is holding a week of Involvement Fairs at all campuses giving you the chance to nd out how to gain essential experience to improve your CV.

The 22nd-26th February will see external Volunteer Organisations and our own Student Groups promoting their opportunities for involvement.

Visit www.birminghamcitysu.com/involvementweek for more information.

For the rst time this academic year, Student Council is to be held at a different campus. Normally hosted at City North, the next Student Council will take place on 25th February at 5.30pm in room 313, City South campus.

Communications Ofcer Kat Higgs said: “Although travel expenses are provided, it’s unfair for those students who are interested in Council, who aren’t based in Perry Barr, to have to travel across the City.

“Council are already looking at new, accessible ways for Students to get their voices heard both in Student Council and at a local level.”

Council is essential to democracy within the Students’ Union.

There’s no pressure to join, so come along and see if you like it! As it’s Exec election time, you’ll get the chance to grill the candidates.

All students from across the University are invited to attend! Visit www.birminghamcitysu.com/council for more information.

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

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

Birmingham City Students’ Union is hosting its rst ever Student Activities’ Ball at Edgbaston Cricket Ground on the 2nd May. Everyone is welcome to join in the party and recognise the achievements of all student groups. For moreinformation, contact:[email protected]

Bonkers Exec Election

24th February-5th MarchCheck www.briminghamcitysu.com/elections for info

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


After the long wait, we can finally announce that Birmingham City University has its very own gym… well sort of.Shared with the local residence we can hardly call it our very own gym, but it’s about the closest we’re going to come I’m afraid… but trust me, it is a place to be proud of.Stacked with the latest technology in the gymming world, you’ll feel like exercise is your new best friend. Plug in your Ipod, catch up on an episode of Hollyoaks or run to your hearts content looking out over the tip top gardens of The Coppice.If the gym doesn’t tempt you there are three studios to pick from; one dedicated to spinning classes, whilst the other two host an array of routines from Body Pump to Pilates.Having recently been to one of the classes I can’t tell you how much fun they are. The smiling, energetic instructor welcomed my somewhat nervous friend and I with open arms, before talking us through the steps.Although somewhat quiet the classes have a lot of potential and I’m certain they will be a hit once we all get to know about them.The gym itself is yet to be explored, but from first glance and a lot of helpful tips from other instructors, there appears to be a lot more to offer than a simple weights bench.

Each machine is kitted out with the latest USB technology… I know what you’re thinking, ‘why would an exercise machine need a USB port?’, but believe it or not you can create your very own online virtual trainer. Plugging in and logging onto www.virtualtrainer.lifefitness.com will enable you to work out how much exercise you need to do to reach your target, or call up the training program for famous athletes and attempt their work outs.Of course no university based gym would be complete without a sports hall. When I think of a sports hall I think of a dark, dingy space with a light whiff of BO floating past, but after visiting this top of the range facility my viewshave changed. The light airy space could not be any bigger, brighter and more professional looking if it tried. Perfect for all our in-house sports teams and those who just want a quick kick around, students can rent the space out by the hour.Although a swimming pool and squash court wouldn’t go amiss, I honestly can not fault this amazing facility. I just wish they had finished it sooner, with four months to go before I graduate I for one will not be able to take advantage of the six month membership deals, but the £2.50 a go charge it’s enough to keep me popping in.

City North Sports Centre NEW City North

Sports Centrenow open

£120.00

6 month student gymmembership

only

#

classes and induction are included


NEW City NorthSports Centre

now open

£120.00

6 month student gymmembership

only

#

classes and induction are included



UP front fireworks

Spaghetti Junction isn’t the only one celebrating this month. Oh no… It is that time of year again where award ceremonies are in full swing. We all want to see the A-list celebrities, beautiful dresses and who won what? Yet, rumour has it that this year’s Oscars will be one of the most open races in years.There are some changes to the ceremony: instead of five nominations for best film, there will be an awesome ten hot films. There will be two hosts instead of the regular one, as Steve Martin will be sharing his presenter duties with Alec Baldwin. So as not to coincide with the Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver, the 2010 Oscars will take place a fortnight later than last years, but I can hardly see it making a difference!Predictions for films that will be nominated for best picture include Brothers (starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Natalie Portman and Tobey MaGuire), Nine (a musical from the director of Chicago and an all star cast: Daniel Day Lewis, Nicole

Kidman Judi Dench and many more), Public Enemies ( Johnny Depp and Christian Bale) and The Tree of Life (Sean Penn and Brad Pitt star). However, there are some other potential contenders including the geek’s favourite Star Trek, the epic Avatar, District 9, Invictus (directed by Clint Eastwood, perhaps one of the best working directors to date), The Hurt Locker and Inglorious Basterds are all in the running. All these great films stand a chance of getting into the top ten nominations for best

film, but who knows what will happen on the ceremony night.

Of course, most of us will be interested in who wins best

actor/actress as, let’s face it, we all look

forward to the acceptance speeches!

For best actor there may be a battle between

Morgan Freeman and Johnny Depp, however, the

best actress predictions pose a little more difficult. Some have

predicted it will most likely be Michelle Pfeiffer or Audrey Tatou

that takes home this trophy. Here at Spaghetti Junction we have our fingers

crossed for the weepiest speech please!

Ladies, fancy getting all hot and sweaty with some fi refi ghters?Come along to our free fi tness and teambuilding sessions at our West Midlands Fire Service Training Centre in Birmingham.

Call Helen on 0121 380 6231 or email [email protected] more details on session dates and times.

Gather together your sports team or friends to make a team and take part in fi refi ghter fi tness activities. Compete for a place on the West

Midlands Fire Service Grand Slam fi nal with big prizes to be won!

www.wmfs.net


Ladies, fancy getting all hot and sweaty with some fi refi ghters?Come along to our free fi tness and teambuilding sessions at our West Midlands Fire Service Training Centre in Birmingham.

Call Helen on 0121 380 6231 or email [email protected] more details on session dates and times.

Gather together your sports team or friends to make a team and take part in fi refi ghter fi tness activities. Compete for a place on the West

Midlands Fire Service Grand Slam fi nal with big prizes to be won!

www.wmfs.net


Student Culture elf and beauty


Student Cultureelf and beauty

SPAGHETTI junction 29Illustration by Sarah Lynch



1. Sieve the our and salt into a bowl and make a well in the middle. In a jug, throw the yeast, sugar and olive oil into the water and leave for a few minutes. 2. Pour the mixture into the bowl and gradually stir the our in. Stir the our in slowly, gradu-ally dragging more and more in until it starts to stick together. You can then use your hands and gather up the rest of the our, ready for kneading.3. Knead until the dough is springy and generally beautiful, and place into a bowl that has been dusted with our. Cover again with a little our, and place the bowl in a warm dry place. Leave it for an hour to grow and grow, like a small pizza-dough baby.4. Pre-heat the oven to around 240˚C. Knead the dough again for a few minutes, to knock some air out and roll it out. It will take some artistic nesse to create your beautiful heart shape, but I know you’ll pull it off. Spread your tomato over the base, and throw on your cheese. Cover with your selection of toppings (remember to pre-cook the meats, if any) and place in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

White Chocolate and Passion fruit MousseA perfect dessert to nish off your romantic meal. Simple for you (but impressive for him/her) and zingy yet avourful,l whilst remaining light and unlling. Don’t want to feel overfed for later if you know what I mean. Who am I kidding? you all know what I mean. Dirty people.Ingredients100g white chocolate2 eggs, with the white and yolk separated. (Difcult again I know, I’m testing you cookery corner fans)2-3 passion fruit100-150g raspberries (If you use more raspberries, use less passion fruit, and vice versa)Melt the chocolate in your preferred manner- microwave or over boiling water, your choice. Set it to one side and let it cool while you carry on.Beat the egg whites until they stiffen up, but don’t overdo it. Stir the egg yolks into the chocolate gently (just make sure they are mixed, don’t go beating anything). Cut the passion fruit in half and scoop out the entire insides. Lob the whole mixture into the egg yolk and chocolate and mix. Steadily stir in the egg whites until it mixes to a single consistency.Line the bottom of whatever you’re serving in with raspberries and pour over the mixture. Make sure you make this earlier than the rest of your meal, because it needs a good few hours in the fridge to thicken up.Enjoy V’day fans. No need to thank me. No, really. Just enjoy yourselves. Naughty wee things.

IngredientsYour toppings. I can’t tell you what your favourite pizza is, and I won’t try. I’m not friggin’ psychic.A garlic clove, chopped nely (this can be limited to avoid the breath factor later on)400g can plum tomatoes2 tbsp tomato puree300g cheese, or more if you fancy it. Vary it up as well, use mozzarella, parmesan, anything you like!Basil leaves, for avourFor the base500g white bread our1/2 tbsp of saltAround 7g of dried yeast (normally packeted in this way)1/2 tbsp caster sugar2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or, you know, olive oil)300ml warm water

Design by Joe Taylor





Cookeryorner




Student Culture fashion fix

1. Sieve the our and salt into a bowl and make a well in the middle. In a jug, throw the yeast, sugar and olive oil into the water and leave for a few minutes. 2. Pour the mixture into the bowl and gradually stir the our in. Stir the our in slowly, gradu-ally dragging more and more in until it starts to stick together. You can then use your hands and gather up the rest of the our, ready for kneading.3. Knead until the dough is springy and generally beautiful, and place into a bowl that has been dusted with our. Cover again with a little our, and place the bowl in a warm dry place. Leave it for an hour to grow and grow, like a small pizza-dough baby.4. Pre-heat the oven to around 240˚C. Knead the dough again for a few minutes, to knock some air out and roll it out. It will take some artistic nesse to create your beautiful heart shape, but I know you’ll pull it off. Spread your tomato over the base, and throw on your cheese. Cover with your selection of toppings (remember to pre-cook the meats, if any) and place in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

White Chocolate and Passion fruit MousseA perfect dessert to nish off your romantic meal. Simple for you (but impressive for him/her) and zingy yet avourful,l whilst remaining light and unlling. Don’t want to feel overfed for later if you know what I mean. Who am I kidding? you all know what I mean. Dirty people.Ingredients100g white chocolate2 eggs, with the white and yolk separated. (Difcult again I know, I’m testing you cookery corner fans)2-3 passion fruit100-150g raspberries (If you use more raspberries, use less passion fruit, and vice versa)Melt the chocolate in your preferred manner- microwave or over boiling water, your choice. Set it to one side and let it cool while you carry on.Beat the egg whites until they stiffen up, but don’t overdo it. Stir the egg yolks into the chocolate gently (just make sure they are mixed, don’t go beating anything). Cut the passion fruit in half and scoop out the entire insides. Lob the whole mixture into the egg yolk and chocolate and mix. Steadily stir in the egg whites until it mixes to a single consistency.Line the bottom of whatever you’re serving in with raspberries and pour over the mixture. Make sure you make this earlier than the rest of your meal, because it needs a good few hours in the fridge to thicken up.Enjoy V’day fans. No need to thank me. No, really. Just enjoy yourselves. Naughty wee things.

IngredientsYour toppings. I can’t tell you what your favourite pizza is, and I won’t try. I’m not friggin’ psychic.A garlic clove, chopped nely (this can be limited to avoid the breath factor later on)400g can plum tomatoes2 tbsp tomato puree300g cheese, or more if you fancy it. Vary it up as well, use mozzarella, parmesan, anything you like!Basil leaves, for avourFor the base500g white bread our1/2 tbsp of saltAround 7g of dried yeast (normally packeted in this way)1/2 tbsp caster sugar2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or, you know, olive oil)300ml warm water

Design by Joe Taylor





Cookeryorner




Student Culture whats hot whats not

Greetings possums and welcome to the weird and wonderful world of what’s hot and what’s not.There’s a bag full of treats for you to chomp on so grab yourself a cuppa and take a trip through the land of the no brainers and the quite frankly marvellously smashing.

Spring CleaningIt’s time to whip out your best feathery rubber gloves, you mucky pups, and give yourself a good scrub-a-dub-dub. Heaven knows what grime is lurking in those student digs of yours. So, whack on your best CD and let’s mop it baby!

Cheap as chips in the taxi home

90’s Night at Subway city, I Love Risa on a Wednesday, Skint at DV8, there’s a barrel-full of

heel totteringly fab nights out in Brum for just pittance. So what the frig are you waiting for

eh??? Grab your mates, get your best dancing shoes on and, witwoooo!

Cupid’s having a nibbleLove is in the air this time of year. For all you couples it’s unnecessary amounts of heavy petting and saliva swapping. And for the singletons, a great excuse to get absolutely trollied and verbally abuse the world.

Veggie Delights“Hey good looking what you got cooking!” The Warehouse Cafe, hidden away just down from Moor Street Station, is a treasure trove of veggie and vegan yumminess. Everything they use is organic to make scrumptious food at a reasonable price. Yum yum in your tum tum, they even showcase local artists work to have a butchers at while you’re munching away.

Right on your doorstepAfter all we are studying in the second biggest

city so surely there are a few adventures to be had hiding right under your snozzer. Check out the Ikon Gallery in Brindley Place and Digbeth for

quirky art exhibitions or how about the Custard Factory for great live music and its fabulous

weekend flea markets too.



Student Culture whats hot whats not

By Laura Townsend

The end of an eraIt’s a sad time of the year people when we have

to bid a fond farewell to some friendly faces. Georgie, Poppy, Kirsty and Dave have perfected

the art of the Spaghetti world for us and are passing it onto the next generation. Raise your

glasses chaps!

Dear oh dearYou’re family’s worst nightmare when your mum announces she’s bought tickets to ‘Abba World’, the interactive exhibition at Earls Court that lets you croon with hologram versions of the group and star in your own Mamma Mia-style video. Yawns galore me thinks.

Madge and her ginormous ego

Turns out the most written about celebrity of the noughties is fame hungry, vein popping (eurgh)

Madonna. A whopping 45,633 articles have been written all about her in the last nine years...

almost as many as the number of years she’s been on this earth. And sadly I’ve just given her

another mention, damn it!

Awards seasonThe red carpet dresses are a treat and the teary-

eyed speeches are comedy in themselves. But call me a moaning Minnie or does it seem that every

time the same big money films are nominated for a ton of different awards? Give the little guys a

chance for once my sweets.

Baker vending machinesBaker Building at City North Campus’ monster money eaters that knick your change and give you the wrong chocolate bar. PMS brought on early for definite, ‘nuff said yea.



December marked the tenthanniversary of one of Birmingham’s most celebrated music promoters and there were more than a few parties to celebrate it!

Capsule, the organisers and curators behind some of the most distinguishable live music events and exhibitions held in the West Midlands, such as the annual ‘Supersonic Festival’ held at the Custard Factory every summer, celebrated their 10th birthday this December. Company directors, Lisa Meyer and Jenny Moore strive to promote experimental music and art by bringing it to the region and in doing so they have carved out a thriving scene here in Birmingham.

Formed in December 1999 to ll the void of alternative and experimental music in Birmingham, Capsule decided to celebrate their ten year landmark with a month of ten separate events, one for each year, and a resident exhibition at Vivid Gallery in Digbeth, close to where they are based in the heart of Birmingham’s creative industries at The Custard Factory. The diversity of the events adequately represented the history of Capsule’s rich and wide ranging programming from the past 10 years...

Opening event saw the outrageous showmanship of Israeli rockers and Supersonic favourites, Monotonix both amaze, frighten, shock, andliberate their audience at Vivid in one fell swoop. In between dangling from the ceiling, setting up drum kits on the bar and drinking from everyones pints, Monotonix successfully started the party with their real ‘in your face’ rock and roll attitude and insanely energetic performance. They are to be commended not only on their performance, but their ability to be clad in only hot pants, in a warehouse in mid December.

Quite the contrast then, were the serenely elegant performances of all the acts involved at the second celebration at the city’s town hall. Headliners and British folk heroes Tunng, having been Capsule and Supersonic representatives on many occasion, found the time to contribute to celebrations with their rst an only performance since the summer, indulging the audience with a mixture of old favourites and some cheeky new ones as well, which can be expected on an album in 2010. Newcomers to the Capsule fold, Canadian act, Lightning Dust proved a popular choice for support as well.

By David Breese



Personal highlight of the events for me was my rst experience of the brutal barrage of noise and energy that is Lightning Bolt. In front of, what has become for them, a relatively small yet dedicated audience, they didn’t scupper on their performance. You would be insane not to be sporting a pair of fetching luminous foam earplugs for this duo however; it took two days for my hearing to fully return, a small price to pay for seeing these noise rock giants in such intimate surroundings.

Other events brought the America doom merchants, Sunn O))) test the structural integrity of the Jewellery Quarters’ Asylum, as well as a lovely little evening of networking and socialising for the creative industries that Capsule themselves have become rmly rooted in. The

closing handful of events saw Brum locals Pram and The Modied Toy Orchestra, headline two events respectively down at Vivid. Birmingham’s local music mastermind and respected sound artist, Brian Duffy, having been part of the opening night with new band Cum Dogs, closed the celebrations with his dapper black suited band and army of hand transformed kids toys-cum-instru-ments. To a loud and appreciative audience, the Kraftwork and Kraut inspired performance made a suitable end to a month of musical and artistic diversity that Capsule are renowned for. Here’s to the next ten years! For more information on Capsule and details of all their forthcoming events visit www.capsule.org.uk

Arts & Entertainment capsule



Arts and Entertainment brendan benson


Arts and Entertainmentbrendan benson




As the 2009 winner of the popular ITV show, ‘The X factor’, Alexandra Burke could easily have been another typical reality-made pop star making one average song and then disappearing off the face of the charts. However, her debut album, ‘Overcome’ proves that Burke will be in the charts for a while yet. With a diverse choice of songs and melodies that really show off her vocal range, the album really is a credit to all that made it. With popular pop songs such as ‘Bad boys’ and ‘Broken heels’ as well as brand new ballads such as ‘The silence,’ the album keeps listeners entertained from start to end. Although, ‘Hallelujah’ as the last track on the album, the predictable X Factor winner’s song, seems a little out of place. It seems to be ‘stuck on the end’ as a sort of afterthought

(or ‘Bonus track’ as referred to on the back of the album) as the song we would rather forget was that very same overplayed Christmas No1 when Burke won the competition back in 2008. As well as music from Burke, the album includes some excellent duets with other artists such as Flo-Rida and Ne-Yo. Burke has also had the privilege of working with the popular producer/songwriter, Red One, in at least two of her songs offering even more variety to the album. 4/5 By Catherine Nash

Arts & Entertainment album reviews

ALBUM REVIEWS

Being the duo’s first release since 100th Window in 2003, the expectancy weighing on Massive Attack’s shoulders is, well, massive. Yet the fathers of trip-hop have created a master piece to rival the days of Tear Drop and Unfinished Sympathy.Slowly drawing the nation back in over recent months with a taster EP called Splitting the Atom, the duo continued in that rich vein of form, with the help of some very well-chosen guest vocals, a decision that many artists have opted for recently.Stand out songs include opening track Pray for Rain (which includes the amazing voice of TV on the radio’s Tunde Adebimpe), and Paradise Circus (which has a killer bass line). Other guests on the

record include Blur’s Damon Albarn and Elbow’s Guy Garvey.Massive Attack, as always, betray the meaning of their name and keep the album subtle and simmering, rarely reaching the boil and really bursting into life. It is at those moments where you see the true brilliance of the album, because you realise you’ve been hooked since the first second whilst they have barely broken into a sweat.This record will work ideally for the bedroom or headphones, so it will be very interesting to see how they sound live. However, being the experienced musicians that they are, they will have a trick or two up their sleeves. 4/5 By Jo Chapman

ALExAndRA BURkE overcome

MASSIVE ATTACk heligoland

Shakespeare said that music was the food of love…here at Spaghetti Junction, we say that music is the reason why Shakespeare said that. Clever, I know. Here are some of the latest album releases reviewed, just for you- enjoy!



Arts & Entertainment film reviews

FILM REVIEWSPARAnORMAL ACTIVITYThe success surrounding Paranormal Activity is as mystifying as the ghostly going-on’s in the film itself; a low budget, poorly-acted film that prides itself on cheap shocks somehow goes on to become one of the biggest profit-makers in cinematic history. I don’t know about you, but I think some ‘paranormal activity’ was going on when they counted the box office takings.The hype machine surrounding the film is also somewhat of an unexplained entity, with various brown-trousered critics howling that it’s the scariest film ever. It’s not. In all honesty, it is about as scary as a bad episode of Scooby Doo, minus the big sandwiches.Don’t let the title fool you; there’s lots of paranormal but not a great deal of activity. In fact, a better name for this film would have been ‘Most Haunted USA’, as it’s one Derek Acorah away from being identical to the Living TV drivel. Paranormal Activity follows Micah and Katie, who enjoy making home movies and happen to share a

house with a ghoulie. Cue lots of banging around, a not-quite-as-funny Derek-lite psychic and some Ouija board mumbojumbo. It’s all a bit silly, but to be fair, it’s enjoyable enough. The acting is straight from the Ron Jeremy School of Drama, the plot was probably written on a napkin, and the ending is as obvious as two plus two, but for all it’s flaws, Paranormal Activity is an hour and a half of good clean ghostly fun. Worth a watch, just to see what all the fuss is about.3/5 By Chris Smith

THE ROAdThe Road is a story of survival, strength and an unbreakable bond between a father and son.The future looks bleak after the desperate mother of the family commits suicide and they are told to head to the south where growth and warmer climates collide in the otherwise desolate country, formerly known as America. With their belongings in a shopping trolley, they embark on a tiresome and gruelling journey where they must try to avoid the constant threat of death.There are savages and reckless gangs, forced into cannibalism, haunting the deserted streets where the man and his son walk searching for food, clothing and fuel. With nothing but a pistol that is quickly running out of bullets to protect them, this film will have you gripping the edge of your seat.There is a continuing feeling of fear and anticipation for the pair’s safety, with some insight into the

horror and reality of the threats they face, without constant gruesome scenes. Some might say that this is where the film falls down but the story is a tale of survival not blood and guts.The names of the characters in the film are never revealed, however the father and son, played by Viggo Mortensen and Kodi Smit-McPhee, give a heart-warming performance throughout. 4/5 By Kirsty Booth



Arts & Entertainment film reviews

FILM REVIEWSHARRY BROWnMichael Caine is by far the coolest man in history; forget all these American tarts, Caine would have them for breakfast and still have time for a bit of ow’s yer father with some classy cockney bird. Terrible attempts at being cockney aside, Harry Brown proves Caine’s endless cool credentials. At the grand old age of 76, Sir Mike has somehow made a pensioner with emphysema the biggest cinematic badass in years. Harry Brown follows the title character as he struggles to come to terms with the death of his best friend at the hands of hoodies (played to delightfully obnoxious levels by rapper Plan B and Cook from Skins). Luckily, Brown used to be a marine and turns out to be pretty bloody handy with a gun. Make no mistake, revenge is soup of the day and Brown is gonna serve it colder than ice.You’ll be cheering him on, and somehow, he makes the ridiculous idea of a vigilante pensioner thoroughly believable. Try watching the incredibly overrated Danny Dyer in any gangster film after Harry Brown and, even at 76, you’ll be wishing it

were Caine there instead.Harry Brown deals with heavy social issues with intelligence, avoiding hamfisted clichés; the hoodies aren’t just the bad guys, they suffer from poverty and addiction, the police create as much trouble as they solve and Brown himself kills without remorse for his fellow human’s lives.Put simply, Harry Brown is a triumph for British filmmaking, showing the cockney football/gangster mush churned out on a regular basis how to do things should be done. Throw your Danny Dyer DVD’s out of the window, and watch a master at work.4/5 By Chris Smith

LAW ABIdInG CITIZEnOne of the best films I’ve seen in a long while. A completely unexpected storyline mixed with some blood and guts is exactly what the doctor ordered.Fed up with these repetitive plots, Law Abiding Citizen showed all movie makers exactly how it should be done.Staring the heartthrob that is Gerard Butler (who plays Clyde Shelton), the film dives straight in the deep end as Shelton’s wife and child are murdered before his eyes. Taking justice into his own hands, Shelton sets out to capture his family’s killers, but is caught and imprisoned.Nick Rice (played by the one and only Jamie Foxx) becomes more and more frustrated as Shelton takes further revenge on the district attorney and those formerly involved in the case.No-one can understand how Shelton is killing

whilst locked up in solitary confinement, but somewhat unbelievably, he is. Rice tries everything to stop him, but nothing seems to work. Will the horror inflicted by Shelton come back to haunt him in the end?A truly disturbing film it will leave you heartbroken one moment and covering your eyes in horror the next. 5/5 By Georgie Campbell



Arts & Entertainment book review

The novel is relatively simple but compelling nonetheless. The story follows two women; one at the beginning of her marriage, the other in her later years - who live next door to each other. Although the women hardly interact within the novel Miller uses the juxtaposition of their lives to reveal depth in the characters. Most of ‘The Senator’s Wife’ takes place in little more than a year; however, flashbacks and the characters’ reflections tell the story of each marriage along with their hopes and dreams over the latest few decades.I loved the book yet often disagreed with the characters, not always sympathizing. This helped to bring some conflict to the plot and with Miller’s skilled writing I was won over. Not only is ‘The Senator’s Wife’ certainly an enjoyable read, but is recommended by Richard and Judy. Miller is a highly popular, well-respected and successful writer and I strongly suggest you take on her thought provoking novels for 2010. 4.5/5 By Iyanu Onalaja

Ok so I’ve given in. Not normally one for make-believe fiction or reading books after seeing the film, but this is an exception. In fact I have carefully filed all of Stephenie Meyer’s books into this category so they do not go amiss.Twilight forms the first of four books in the vampire-esk genre Meyer has carefully carved herself into. Although not the most amazing literacy I have ever read, the storyline is out of this world, literally.Bella Swan finds herself in the dreary world of Forks with no friends, no sun and living with her estranged dad. Unlike many of us would, Bella befriends hunk and love attraction, Edward Cullen, singling him out amongst the rest of the student population. The story unfolds with an air of danger amidst the romance, but all in all this is a chick flick through and through. Having seen the film before reading the book I was somewhat unable to capture pieces excluded from the motion picture, ruining it slightly, so words of wisdom… if you haven’t seen the film yet, read the book first. 3/5 By Georgie Campbell

TWILIGHT stephenie meyer

THE SEnATOR’S WIFE sue millerBOOk REVIEWS

LIBRARY OF THE dEAd glenn cooperI’m a little bit biased when it comes to books of this kind… an overly intelligent serial killer, a mystified old time cop and a good measure of action always gets my senses going… and I’m afraid to say that this one is no better.Nicknamed the Doomsday Killer, each victim receives a blank postcard containing the outline of a coffin before he meets his fate. Unable to make any connections between the killings past the postcards, FBI agent Will Piper may have met his match after all.On the verge of retirement and a history in serial killings, Piper may seem like the perfect man to do the job, yet after years of drink abuse and the departure of his wife he has his doubts. The tale unwinds in a somewhat complicated plot, jumping from era to era. If you’ve not come across Cooper before, now is the time to start. 4/5 By Georgie Campbell



Arts & Entertainment horoscopes

SPAGHETTISCOPESby laura townsend

A big slap in the face is coming your way at 8:19 one day this month. Hey, I got my balls BOGOF, what more do you want from me?!

Come on chaps all in the name of a smashing good time, it’s the month to wear your best pair of braces, yodel at the top of your lungs and hug every bearded woman you see.

This month’s looking a bit dodge for you old sagi, so wear you’re best bobbley hat and watch out for low flying pigs. On the plus side your hat looks bare fit!

Take a trip to the newsagents in your best pimped out shopping trolley. Offer a friend a lift and you might just get a sherbet fountain out of it, good times.

On the 17th, you’ll call your lecturer “mum”, trip on a grape and head butt your Nan’s best china. A smashing good month in my mind.

My fishy friend. Look out for a famous boxer coming your way, shout “PowPow” and stroke his cheek. Can someone make sure to get me a few snaps please???

Watch that cheeky little bonce of yours this month buttercup. I see trouble ahead in the form of nipple piercings and Prince Albert’s, ouchie!

Well Capricorn finally got a scope this month for once, so its unlucky for you my friend, my balls can’t stretch that far. Better luck next time eh!

Oh smashing news, watch out for a cheeky nip from Cupid. Love is in the air, let’s hope he knows what team you’re batting for, lolorama.

Lurking in the name of monies is your rich picking this month, you dirty peanut. Grow a beard, hide in a wheelie bin and enjoy the pang of people throwing pennies at you.

Try and stay calm this month, sit in the middle of campus, cross your legs and make everyone call you the Dalai Lama. You might get some free sandwiches.

Tralalalalaaaaa have a jog down the supermarket aisle and buy a trolley load of toothpaste. You waster!

SCORPIO (oct 24-nov 22)

SAGITTARIUS (nov 23-Dec 21)

CAPRICORN (Dec 22-jan 20)

AQUARIUS (jan 21-Feb 19)

PISCES (Feb 20-Mar 20)

ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 20)

TAURUS (Apr 21-May 21)

GEMINI (May 22-jun 21)

CANCER (jun 22-jul 23)

LEO (jul 24-Aug 23)

VIRGO (Aug 24-Sep 23)

LIBRA (Sep 24-oct 23)

Check out the Spaghetti Junction blog on spaghettijunct.wordpress.com

Although we try our hardest, not all the pictures in this magazine are originally sourced from us. If we haven’t directly referenced them in the magazine, you’ll be sure to find out where they come from on the Spaghetti Junction Student Magazine fan page on Facebook.

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Visit your Involvement Fayre to find out howto get involved and make the most of your

time at Birmingham City University!

Visit your local Involvement Fayre... Monday 22nd February

Gosta Green Canteen, 12-3pm

Tuesday 23rd FebruaryEdgbaston, Lounge... 12-3pm

Wednesday 24th FebruaryCity North Campus, Union Building, 12-3pm

Thursday 25th FebruaryMillennium Point Canteen, 12-3pm

Friday 26th FebruaryConservatoire, 12-3pm

www.birminghamcitysu.com/activities



Are you making the most out of your time at Uni?

Visit your Involvement Fayre to find out howto get involved and make the most of your

time at Birmingham City University!

Visit your local Involvement Fayre... Monday 22nd February

Gosta Green Canteen, 12-3pm

Tuesday 23rd FebruaryEdgbaston, Lounge... 12-3pm

Wednesday 24th FebruaryCity North Campus, Union Building, 12-3pm

Thursday 25th FebruaryMillennium Point Canteen, 12-3pm

Friday 26th FebruaryConservatoire, 12-3pm

www.birminghamcitysu.com/activities




SPAGHETTI JUNCTION FEBRUARY 2009

Documents

claims discount

windscreen claims

month policy

discount equivalent

sj sessions

entertainment editor

features editor

month renewal