The Stew - Issue Two [Grapeshot Magazine]

LISTEN

Girl Talk

Let me tell you, this nerdy-looking guy from Pennsylvania sure knows how to rock the beats and is very generous when it comes to reaching the masses. Yes, Girl Talk is a guy – a guy who happens to know how to keep your eardrums very happy. His latest album, All Day, can be downloaded for FREE at the website below and each of the 12 tracks, which are actually meant to be listened to as one long track, will not only wow you but will also have you thinking, ‘I swear I know this song!’ Why? Because Girl Talk is the master of mash-ups. All Day samples well over 300 songs from a plethora of artists to bring us something new and oh-so-fresh. I’m talking, Kanye. Nirvana. Kylie. Outkast. The Doors. M.I.A. Miley. Neil Diamond. U2. Britney. Gaga. Beyonce. Daft Punk. And bundles more. So, with such a mixed bag of tunes available at absolutely no cost to you, Girl Talk is sure to please.

www.illegal-art.net/allday/

WATCH

Californication, Channel 11

This show is smokin’ hot, slightly disturbing and momentarily cringe-worthy. Really, what more could you ask for? The protagonist, Hank Moody (David Duchovny), is an egotistical, self-loathing, womanising and damaged novelist whose daily rituals seem to involve little more than smoking, drinking, engaging in mostly forgettable sexual encounters and battling writer’s block. Throw in a long time ex-girlfriend, a teenage daughter, a couple of drug-dependent yet dependable friends and there you have it – the perfect way to break up the monotony of trashy current affairs programs and exhausting reality TV. But this is a show where absolutely nothing is considered too much so I wouldn’t recommend it for the prudish or faint-hearted.

DRINK

Pimms No. 1

It’s Pimms o’clock! This scrumptious liqueur tantalises the tastebuds with citrus and spice and is delectable during rain, hail or shine. Just mix 200mL of Pimms No. 1 with 600mL of lemonade and then add some mint, cucumber, orange and strawberries for a slice of cocktail heaven. Admittedly, it’s a lot more work than cracking open a beer or pouring a glass of wine but the work really does pay off.

www.anyoneforpimms.com

EAT

Saké Restaurant & Bar

Exquisite cocktails – check. Divine Japanese cuisine – check. Impeccable service – check. Located on super trendy Argyle St in The Rocks, Saké Restaurant & Bar offers a vast range of contemporary Japanese goodies in an atmosphere that is warm, exciting and enjoyed by the likes of Dita von Teese. No, I’m not kidding. Much to my other half’s delight, the minx herself was sitting right behind me. I’m almost positive he spent the whole night checking her out but pretending he was looking at me.

With cocktails starting from $15 a pop, it’s probably not the best place to go for a huge night. But with dishes ranging from $8 - $33, it’s most definitely a hot spot to get a good night well underway. My personal recommendations: Salt and Pepper Tofu ($11) – melts in your mouth. Beef Tataki ($18) – party on your tongue. Chocolate Fondant with White-Sesame Ice-Cream ($15) – absolute bliss.

www.sakerestaurant.com.au

RELISH

Sydney’s Garage Sale Trail

Do you have bits and bobs lying around the house that deserve to go to a better home? Or do you just love digging through other people’s pre-loved treasures and finding the ultimate bargain? Either way, the Garage Sale Trail is just the thing for you. On April 10^th there will be thousands of garage sales all over the country opening their garage doors in order to reuse and recycle their unwanted gems rather than turning them into landfill. To jump on the bandwagon, register your garage sale at the website below. Or, if it’s those vintage one-offs you’re after, the website will point you in all the right directions. And regardless of whether you’re a seller or a shopper, make sure you wear your comfy shoes.

www.garagesaletrail.com.au

CATCH

Every Drop Of The Dwindling Sunshine

It’s that time of year when you can feel winter creeping up on you and summer slowly losing it’s grip. No more thongs and swimmers. No more Zooper Doopers. Just long sleeves, hairy legs and thick socks. Ugh. But before you let the icy chill grab hold, make the most of the bright days and balmy nights that we still have left. Jump in the ocean. Fly a kite. Go fishing. There are a lot of assessments to get through before summer is back again. What a bummer.

Editorial - Issue Two: Take it Off! [Grapeshot Magazine]

Take it off. Take it all off. Actually no, do what you like. Who am I to tell you how to enjoy your freshly printed copy of Grapeshot Magazine? It really doesn’t bother me, as long as you do, in fact, enjoy it. Perhaps this should be the case with all things. ‘Sir, please put your clothes back on – you’re offending the little old lady over there,’ says the police officer. ‘Well officer, I’d really prefer not to because I’m enjoying the fresh air,’ replies the offending individual. Ok, perhaps not.

In actual fact, we’re coming to that dreaded time of year when we aren’t taking it off but putting it on. The bronzed skin and thongs will slowly leave us, and the scarves, tea and muffin tops will start to settle in. So, before we all delve into the doom and gloom of the cooler months, let us use this issue of Grapeshot to delight in stripping down and taking it off.

As a child you learn the vital lesson of Band-Aids – take it off as quick as a flash in order to reduce potential whimpering time. How about the removal of a Band-Aid as an analogy for life itself? If it hurts, close your eyes and get rid of it as quickly as possible.

If you were Taylor Lautner, how would you feel about taking it off? I’m pretty sure I’d absolutely love it. You will be amazed to discover in the following pages the story of a boy with Taylor Lautner-esque abs who dreads taking his shirt off for fear of gawking. If only we all had that problem, hey?

And what better issue to get something off your chest? Figuratively, of course. Picture this. You’re at a festival. It’s smack bang in the middle of the day and well above 30 degrees. You’re trying desperately to look like you’re having a good time. But then, you feel it. The sweaty, hairy chest of the chubby guy beside you. Your whole left side is wet. You think you’re going to be sick. And so, we have our rant.

But that’s only the very start of what this issue has to offer. I urge you to keep turning those pages because there is bound to be something that will tease, tantalise or tempt you to take it off and let it rip. And when that happens, make sure you let us know by writing to grapeshotmq@gmail.com.        

The Stew - Issue One [Grapeshot Magazine]

DRINK

Manly Wine by Gazebo

This little bar is picture-perfect and an immaculate spot to start letting any night slip away. Glasses of wine start at $7, which isn’t too bad given the panoramic views of Manly Beach and spunky bodies that swarm the location. If you’re after a little something to delight the tummy, I don’t think you can go past the Rocket, Parmesan, Pine Nut & Grapefruit Salad ($11) and the Double Chocolate Brownie with Fairy Floss & Ice-Cream ($13) to follow. Delish. But I’d get down to this trendy, relaxed slice of heaven before the sunshine slips away.

www.manlywine.com.au


WATCH
Breaking Bad

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not usually into blood, guts, drugs and guns but, for some reason, this show really seems to keep me on the edge of the couch. It’s been nominated for and won a plethora of awards so I’m obviously not the only one who digs it. The story is as heart wrenching as they come, at first anyway: Walt is a chemistry teacher and a father of two who is diagnosed with cancer and given a short time to live. Sad. But in order to provide for his family after he kicks the bucket, he decides to start making methamphetamine with Jesse, the local drop-kick, and quickly becomes a kingpin of the drug trade. Go figure. All at once, Breaking Bad is unbearable to watch but impossible to take your eyes off. And lucky for you, all three seasons are available on iTunes so you can catch up before Season Four hits our screens in March.

RELISH

In the night sky.

Now, before you start gagging and accusing me of being some kind of cheesy romantic, take a step outside tonight and look up. I promise you won’t be disappointed. Did you know that you can actually see Mars from your balcony or backyard on any given night? And, what’s more, gazing at the night sky is free, environmentally friendly and those twinkle twinkles aren’t going anywhere any time soon. Of course, as with most things, the experience will always be made more enjoyable if accompanied by some kind of alcoholic substance, a good nosh and a buddy.

EAT

Zooper Doopers


Boasting the coolest taste in the universe, these icy-cold treats still tickle the tastebuds as perfectly as they did back when they were cool in primary school. In eight cosmic flavours and at a mere 20c each, Zooper Doopers sure are your friends in the freezer. My favourite flavour is Toffee Apple Taser. What’s yours?

www.zooperdooper.com.au

READ

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson


I know, I know – I’m way behind the times here. But I am hugely reluctant to pick up a book just because everyone else is. And, to prove my point, I hereby solemnly swear that I have not read the Da Vinci Code and have no plans to pick that page-turner up any time soon. The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, on the other hand, is well worth picking up if you haven’t already. Admittedly, it is a slow start but once it takes off you’re hooked. It’s slightly disturbing, hugely intriguing and leaves absolutely no loose ends. A perfect means of procrastination, if you ask me.

WANDER

Groovin’ The Moo

Feel like getting festive in the middle of nowhere? Then choose your paddock and jump around at Groovin’ The Moo. This festival has been getting bigger and better with each year that passes and 2011 will definitely not disappoint as another massive line-up of local and international talent hits the sticks to rock your world. I’m talking Architecture in Helsinki, Cut Copy, Bliss n Eso, Art vs. Science, Washington, Birds of Tokyo and The Wombats, just to name a few. The first show hits Victoria on April 30 and will traipse the rest of the country over the following four days. For more detailed information, hit the website below.

www.gtm.net.au

Editorial - Issue One: Trash or Treasure? [Grapeshot Magazine]

So the saying goes that one man's trash is another man's treasure. But if the thought of trash doesn't exactly tickle your fancy, I promise that you will find al the treasures you need in Grapeshot in 2011. It is going to be a cracker of a year - I can feel it in my waters.


Grapeshot not only has a brand new team who are bursting at the seams with enthusiasm, we also have a brand new publication: Grapeshot News. This little gem will come out fortnightly and will keep you all up-to-date on all things Macquarie University. Meanwhile, Grapeshot Magazine will hit the stands monthly and be filled to the brim with creative excellence.


But what does this mean to you? It means more pages for all the new kids on the block, and the kids that have been around the block a few times, to pour their creativity into and an opportunity to make your voice heard like never before.


I told you it was going to be a good year.


Speaking of new kids, a big welcome to everyone starting at Macquarie University this year and congratulations on making such a fine choice in tertiary education. There really is nothing to it. But, if you don’t want to take my word for it, read on and find out for yourself.


Hey! Hey! Hey! Where do you think you’re going, Mr and Mrs 2^nd, 3^rd, 4^th or 5^th year? Just because it’s O-Week and there’s fresh meat around town, doesn’t mean Grapeshot has forgotten about your needs. Ye of little faith. Don’t you worry, there is plenty in the following pages for you to feast your eyes on too.


The new library – finally! Orgasms. Real fur or faux fur? The Black Swan. Parental Facebook control. The potential for Space-Beer. And so much more.


So please, feel free to relish in the pages of Grapeshot and, if you feel so inclined, send your thoughts, words and pictures to grapeshotmq@gmail.com. It’s what we’re here for – to show off how clever you all are.


And lastly, my advice for 2011: If you find a penny, pick it up, all day long you’ll have good luck. And, if luck doesn’t happen to come your way, at least you’re a penny richer.

What's Religion Got To Do With Same-Sex Marriage Anyway?

The same-sex marriage debate is troubling enough without religion trying to get their fingers in the pie, especially when their argument is so easily quashed.

Prior to 1999, same-sex couples were nowhere to be seen in Australian law. By the end of 2008 though, the Federal Government had passed legislation giving same-sex de facto couples in Australia the same rights as de facto heterosexual couples. Though this may seem impressive at first glance, there is something missing from this deceptive picture of equality: the 'm' word - marriage.

Despite the fact that 62% of Australians support marriage equality, and that even political support seems to be on the incline in a big way, same-sex couples still cannot tie the knot. But so what? Shouldn't equal legal rights be enough? To quote the so oft-quoted words of William Shakespeare:

'What's in a name? That which we call a rose

By any other name, would smell as sweet...'

This attitude blatantly ignores the symbolic significance of marriage. The fact that lesbians and gay men are prohibited from marrying not only perpetuates exclusion and inequality but also sends out the message that there is something second-rate about the love and commitment between same-sex partners - a message that I'm sure anyone in a same-sex relationship would strongly dispute. Allowing same-sex marriage, on the other hand, will create equality between all Australians regardless of sexual identity. How is it that little ol' me can see that inclusion is and always will be the better option but others cannot? My guess: blindness by religion.

It is universally accepted that individuals do not choose and cannot change their sexual orientation. Based on this fact alone, the denial of equal rights to individuals who can't help but fancy members of the same sex is an unsustainable matter of principle. But, to assert that this inequality is demanded by a church that is dedicated to love, tolerance and acceptance is particularly unconvincing. Even offensive. Regardless though, some of the strongest opposition to same-sex marriage comes from the religious sector. The late Pope John Paul II, shortly before his death, denounced same-sex marriage as 'an ideology of evil'. More locally, a representative for the Catholic Church in Australia told The Australian that supporting same-sex marriage is an 'assault on the culture of life'. And lets not forget the Australian Christian Lobby who are more than happy to provide an overwhelming level of disdain for same-sex marriage.

Marriage is sacred. Sure, I'll give you that. But marriage is not so sacred that failing to uphold the separation between heterosexual marriage and same-sex relationships will allow the supposed profanity of homosexuality to threaten its sanctity. That is laughable and simply untrue. In Europe and North America the overall rates of heterosexual marriage and divorce have not been adversely affected by allowing same-sex couples to marry. Not to mention the fact that heterosexual married couples are pretty damn close to diminishing the sanctity of marriage all on their own. Divorce rates prove my point. Also, think Shane Warne and Tiger Woods. Or Elizabeth Taylor, who has been married 8 times and is sure to hit someone up for Round 9 any day now. Or Woody Allen, who married his lover's daughter. And Britney Spears must have set some kind of record with her marriage that lasted a pitiful 55 hours.

There is no doubt that time, money, God and nature are universal trump cards that are pulled out in order to win an argument. And it seems religious groups have played the ace: 'It's against nature and what is more, your children will suffer'. The religious opponents argue that marriage must be reserved for husband and wife because of the connection between heterosexual marriage and procreation. And apparently it is only by having a mother and father that children receive the socialisation that is most likely to shape them into successful, responsible adults. Come on. Old people marry, infertile people marry, injured people marry, disabled people marry - and their marriages are fully legitimate, respected and lawful. Moreover, given modern reproduction technology, the possibility to create children without a man and a woman is not only entirely feasible but also completely available. And, if you're still not convinced, major American and Australian psychological associations have found that, not only are same-sex relationships as stable and committed as heterosexual relationships, but also that the children are in no way disadvantaged, reaching the same level of intellectual, emotional, social and sexual adjustment as their peers. Religious opponents are clutching at invisible straws; it's time they stopped supporting discrimination and let equality take its course.

I am not anti-religion. I am pro-equality. And the same-sex marriage debate is not a fight against religion. It is a fight against prejudice. This fact is what our precious politicians who so vehemently deliberate on this topic should be most concerned with, not that marriage equality could destroy the institution of marriage or may be biologically unnatural. What's more, we elect these representatives and they should, in turn, represent us as citizens of an increasingly secular country that prides itself on giving everyone a fair go and is saying 'yes' to same-sex marriage. Just as homosexuality went from illegal to legal, marriage must become not a union between a man and woman but a union between two people.

The Truth About Ralph Lauren And Their Misleading Pink Ponies.

This is a story about Ralph Lauren and how his naughty Pink Ponies taught an aspiring journalist to read between the lines and keep her pennies where she could see them.

As an eager and enthusiastic intern on my very first day at a fashion magazine, I was absolutely thrilled to be given my first story to get cracking on. The story was about Ralph Lauren and their Pink Pony Campaign, a global initiative launched by Mr. Lauren himself following the death of a dear friend of his to breast cancer. My job was to promote the Pink Pony Walk through Sydney as well as the Pink Pony Collection, from which 20% of all sale proceeds are donated to the National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre. And so, what came to be was my first piece of published writing: 'Ralph Lauren, Pink Ponies And The Fight Against Cancer'.

I was tickled pink - excuse the pun - with my efforts. The article was colourful, fun and supported a good cause. I even caught myself thinking: 'Fashion isn't superficial - it's about philanthropy and using glamorous things to help those in need'. A quick trip to Bondi Junction proved me oh-so-wrong.

I stepped into the gorgeous Ralph Lauren store at the Junction with every intention of purchasing a piece from the Pink Pony Collection. These intentions were short-lived when I found that a black t-shirt featuring the international brand's signature polo player in pink was a whopping $180. I felt enraged and so disappointed - how could a t-shirt possible cost that much? The more I thought about it, the more thwarted I felt.

Since 2002, Ralph Lauren has donated over $500,000 to the NBOCC from Pink Pony merchandise sales. That is a large amount of money but lets do a little calculation, shall we? If 20% of proceeds are donated from the sale of Ralph Lauren Pink Pony t-shirts, this means that a donation of $36 is made for each one sold at $180. In order to make a donation of that size, 13,900 Ralph Lauren Pink Pony t-shirts must have been sold for an approximate total of $2,502,000. From that $2,502,000 spent by Australians, only a measly fraction has been donated to the cause. What a joke.

If each person who owns an item from the Pink Pony Collection had, instead of paying the exorbitant prices demanded by Ralph Lauren, donated their money straight to the NBOCC, they would not only feel so much better about their generosity but would have also contributed to a donation of more than $2,500,000 to benefit programs run by the National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre.

And why do we need to wear our philanthropy anyway? We should be able to donate and feel good enough about the fact that we've donated without parading around with our donation on our torso. Don't get me wrong, I think any donation is better than no donation. But please, I urge you to put your money where it should be. Visit nbocc.org.au to make a donation today.

Happy, Happy Holidays With A Calvin Klein Twist. [Tangent Magazine]

All around the globe Calvin Klein stores have unveiled their annual holiday window displays, but this year they have added a bit of an innovative twist.

Everyone loves Christmas and the holiday spirit that comes at this time of year.

Whether you are having a European white Christmas or a sunny Australian Christmas, you can’t help but relish in the tinsel and the decorations and those gorgeous Christmas carols.

But this year, Calvin Klein have used their annual holiday windows to give shoppers a uniquely refreshing holiday twist – one that will certainly give you something to feast your eyes on.

The traditional Christmas paraphernalia has been done away with and instead shoppers will see an unusual installation that was completed in collaboration with artist Anthony Goicolea, a Cuban-American artist living and working in New York, whose provocative work is recognised and admired in both the worlds of both art and fashion.

The installation, ‘Middle Night, a short film by Anthony Goicolea’, was inspired by early 19^th century toys, snow globes, shadow puppets and flip books and emphasises the basic principles of light, shadow and movement.

The viewer escapes their own world and is transported into a wintertime world, where snow falls endlessly as white canvas tents billow in the wind.

Inside the tents, there are shadowy, silhouetted figures shown dancing, singing, hanging stockings and having a festive dinner party. The action unfolds as the observing camera rotates in a 360º clockwise motion.

The ambience conveyed and the revelry exhibited in ‘Middle Night, a short film by Anthony Goicolea’ really makes you feel like Christmas has arrived. And also that it might even be a good time to pitch a tent and have a go at camping. Or, maybe not so much.

If you can’t make it to a Calvin Klein store, ‘Middle Night, a short film by Anthony Goicolea’ is viewable in its entirety at calvinklein.tv and at cku.com.