March issue

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Delivered FREE to over 40,000 readers in Edinburgh postcodes EH1-EH12 | Issue 4 | March 2013

£11.95 EVERY HOME • EVERY BUSINESSAmigos • EVERY MONTH Family Meal ll £11.95 Amigos Family Meal ll Chicken Wings Meal

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Who are we?

The Edinburgh Biz is Edinburgh’s fastest growing FREE newspaper, promoting and supporting local independent businesses. When the Biz team arrived in the capital in the summer we started our work by talking to local businesses, talking to the public and analysing how the local economic market worked.

We asked local people what we could do to help independent business and what we could do to help the people of Edinburgh in their search for good, quality products; whether that be food, fashion, entertainment or specialist commodities.

We decided to provide a number of services that we believe will help local independent businesses to grow and improve their services and goods. The Edinburgh Biz is a full colour tabloid that is delivered door-to-door, featuring many different businesses across the city, we see the Biz as a fantastic platform for all companies of all sizes

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continued on p4

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WhatzON

March in the City

A Dinosaur Adventure Our Dynamic Earth until 31st March

The Big Sleepout 2013 Edinburgh City Centre 22nd March

A Dinosaur Adventure is an interactive storytelling session about dinosaurs and the science behind some of these amazing animals. Pupils get the chance to hold handling specimens including T rex teeth, lava and dinosaur poo. For early years to primary 2.

10pm-7am, The Big Sleepout is a fundraising event to help homeless people. The idea is that you give up your bed for one night and are sponsored to sleep out under the stars. For Bethany more information about the Big Bethany Sleepout and Bethany´s work visit www.bethanychristiantrust.com

SCOTLAND v WALES Six Nations 2013 in Edinburgh Saturday 9th March, Kick off 2:30pm

Audrey Grant: New Paintings Union Gallery 1st March - 1st April

Murrayfield Stadium 100 Roseburn Street, Edinburgh, City of EH12 5PJ

Big Sleepout 2013 Big Sleepout 2013 Friday 22 March,

A major solo exhibition by this highly regarded Edinburghbased painter. This new body of work continues Grant’s exploration of the human figure and the painted surface, resulting in a fascinating and emotional experience for the viewer.

45 Broughton Street Edinburgh EH1 3JU Phone. 0131 556 7707

Friday . 22 March , Aberdeen Dundee .

Dunfermline . St Andrews . Edinburgh Aberdeen . Dundee .

Dunfermline . St Andrews . Edinburgh Spend a night under the stars to help homeless Spend a night under people the stars

To find out more see our website to help homeless people www.bethanychristiantrust.com To find website orout callmore 0131see 561our 8925 or emailwww.bethanychristiantrust.com sleepout@bethanychristiantrust.com or call 0131 561 8925 or email sleepout@bethanychristiantrust.com Bethany Christian Trust is a registered Scottish charity no SC003783

Prize Sudoku

Bethany Christian Trust is a registered Scottish charity no SC003783

Congratulations to Mrs. Jane Fox on winning Februaary’s prize of a meal for two at TUK TUK.

RENAISSANCE FRAMING & MIRRORS 8 Antigua Street Edinburgh EHI 3NH Prize Sudoku Entry Form WIN Owen Barry Silver 2-tone Puppie Shoulderbag worth £120 from Lilies & Dreams Handbag & Accessories Boutique on St Stephen Street, Stockbridge.

CALL

0131 557 2369

Complete the number puzzle, fill in the form and send it to: Edinburgh BIZ, 7/9 North St. David Street Edinburgh EH2 1AW. Name Address

E S T

1 8 9 0

Contact Telephone Email Closing date Friday 29 March.

Facebook.com/TheEdinburghBiz

Twitter.com/TheEdinburghBiz

EDINBURGH BIZ MARCH 2013 3

Gifts for you and yours Quirky and unique or just plain nice We feel pretty confident that you will find a gift and a treat for yourself in CLOUD 9.

We shall greet you warmly as you enter then you are free to smell the smells, feel the goods and try them on hassle free.

If we can help we are there for that as well. Having a fantastic selection of affordable gifts to choose from you might just need to ask for them to be put aside. Fresh cut flowers delivered 3-4 times per week.

The fact that they are now doing fresh flowers is fantastic. You can’t help but be tempted!

There is such a great selection of gifts ranging in price. Jewellery, handbags, watches, candles, and cards. There are even ranges for young ones too. The Flowers are beautiful and they smell fantastic!”

Some of the fantastic brands available at Cloud 9 - Gorjuss, Kringle Candle Company, Terramundi selection of sterling silver & Fashion Jewellery along with pendant scarves & handbags.

Flowers There is such a great selection of gifts ranging in price.

Jewellery, handbags, watches, candles, and cards. There are even ranges for young ones too.

The Flowers are beautiful and they smell fantastic!”

Jewellery

REVIEWS I must say immediately that I love this shop! Whenever I have an occasion requiring a gift, I always head here first.

If I ever want a wee treat, I head here. I love the fact that they have such a vast selection of Stunning jewellery, home accessories, beautiful scented candles & a great range of cards.

www.facebook.com/ cloud9edinburgh?ref=ts&fref=ts

40 Easter Road, Edinburgh EH7 5RG 0131 661 9667

Scented candles

Mother’s Day offer Sunday 10th March And for something extra special for mum we are offering £30 Hand tie for £25.

Florist choice of flowers unless otherwise stated.

Pre-ordering quote ‘BIZ’ to use this offer.

40 Easter Road, Edinburgh EH7 5RG 0131 661 9667

Gorjuss things

4

Who are we?

Some of the businesses we’ve helped

...continued from front page

and budgets to advertise in Edinburgh. We believe that we are completely responsible for the delivery of the newspaper and so we use our own company, BIZpost, to undertake this task.

Our tabloid paper The Biz team offer a quality service, we find out the needs of our customers and we stay in regular contact with each and every one to ensure that local independent businesses are receiving the support they desperately need during this difficult economic period. The Edinburgh Biz was created out of the desire to help and support the self-employed and the owners of small firms. The two young directors, through their love for business, infectious enthusiasm and fervent work ethic, have made it their sole aim to help, support and protect local trade in Edinburgh and beyond.

Our own delivery team

that creating a striking brand and marketing strategy for every business will give everybody the chance to promote their business effectively and have a positive impact on their potential customer base. We offer a variety of different advertising means, through standard advertisements of all sizes, advertorials, editorial space, blogs, reviews, photographs and more. The Biz team also offer a loyalty scheme to all faithful customers, giving them special discount offers and package deals. Edinburgh Biz is now delivered to over 40,000 readers; this gives local businesses the opportunity to promote their companies to a wider demographic.

DRIVEN TO DELIVER BIZPost motto BIZpost is another quality service that we provide, delivering promotional leaflets, menus and flyers. Through this direct marketing approach, businesses can target specific areas or postcodes of the city or particular customers and industries.

We can offer door-to-door delivery, business-to-business or hand-to-hand, or a mixture of all forms. Depending on the type of business and the specific requirements, the Biz can help your business grow. We encourage anyone who is considering launching a door-to-door campaign to get in touch so that we can start making a positive difference to your business at an extremely affordable price.

BIZpost are happy to offer job opportunities to honest, hardworking individuals in Edinburgh, if that’s you then we urge you to get in touch to become part of a friendly, driven team.

“The BIZpost motto – Driven to Deliver.

What do we do?

Biz Advertising & Distribution Ltd prides themselves on providing quality service and value for money. The Edinburgh Biz is a free publication, offering free advert design to our clients; this means that businesses do not have to look elsewhere for their design and artwork in order for them to advertise. We believe

Your marketing partner Another service offered by our company is the consultancy facility, known as Biz Consultants. The key objective of the

consultancy service is to work with businesses of every size that maybe don’t have a full internal marketing system or businesses looking for inspiration and ideas to create or modify their brand. The Biz Consultants will offer advice and help with how businesses should and could improve brands, products and services and how these are marketed.

Mission statement A company that recognises, values and provides an effective quality service to those who are self-employed and independent business owners in Edinburgh.

Vision To become established as the most effective organisation promoting and protecting local independent businesses, recognising the needs of individuals and endeavouring to provide a quality service that helps and supports everyone.

To discuss the prospect of featuring in Edinburgh Biz, give us a call to discuss what we can do for you on: 07969 120 228 or drop us an email: info@edinburghbiz.org To GET BIZZY with BIZpost send your enquiries to bizpost@edinburghbiz.org or get your FREE quote now by calling us on 07717705795

L O W

Whatever your business, the BIZ can help you grow

#ItsallBiz

C O S T

E F F E C T I V E Your business referrals

BIZ Network is an active networking platform for independent businesses, focused on getting business for and giving business to fellow members. BN meets once a month to network, learn valuable tips and techniques and pass these through the group and to build relationships with other business people in Edinburgh. The sole aim of BN is to pass business around the group referral system. Networking is an extremely effective way to promote your business and glean ideas and inspiration from others, the perfect way to create relationships with others involved in trade across the city and most importantly to give and gain work. If you are keen to find out more, send us an email: edinburgh@bizadvertising.co.uk

MARKETING Consultation • Direct Marketing Graphic design • Printing

To find out what we can do for you email info@edinburghbiz.org or call Natalie on 07800 895 347

EDINBURGH BIZ MARCH 2013 5

6

Learn to relax

Stress levels and body composition

Stress manifests stress in different ways whether that be psychologically or physically.

It can be almost impossible in modern day life to live a stress free life. But there are certain things we can do to manage stress. The adrenal glands will produce cortisol (the stress hormone) and your body kicks in the “fight or flight” response. So the body will either deal with it or run from it.

The body needs to deal with this by creating energy, so it begins to produce more insulin.

Insulin is commonly known as the fat hormone, as the body then starts to use fast glucose.

This is a dramatic increase in energy that if for the minority who train hard 4/5 time per week then this generally is not an issue but for the majority of people in this country tend to be

less active and do not necessarily need a uplift of energy. So where does all the energy go ?

It will begin to store as fat. To help burn fat we need to first control stress. If we can’t fight stress then we are working hard to gain more bodyfat.

Get juiced up Juiced up is a family run business, located in the Bruntsfield area of the city. It is a unique little shop serving fresh, healthy & most importantly delicious ingredients.

With all the whizzing and blending of fresh fruits going on, it is hard not to be capitulated by the passion put into every product. This is particularly apparent in the SUPER SMOOTHIES made with Acai or Aceorla berries to give you all the essential nutrients for a much needed energy boost.

You can add one of the many herbal boosters on offer to any smoothie for an extra health kick. Juiced up even has a herbal booster to cure a HANGOVER, a combination of

Milk Thistle, Dandelion Root & Feverfew to rid the body of all the toxins.

What I found most interesting was that the Wheatgrass (one of natures all in one superfoods) is grown on site and one shot can set you up for rest of the day. Forget coffee.

LOOK GOOD, FEEL GOOD, GET.......................JUICED UP 100 Bruntsfield Place, Edinburgh. info@juicedupbruntsfield.co.uk 0131 228 6825

De-stress tips 1

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Find where your stress manifests itself and create a plan to reduce or remove it. Remember from the start of the article that stress comes in many forms. Is it personal, work, family, illness, injury?

Learn how to cut back and take time out for yourself. Look at your diary and plan some time every day for you.

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Clean up your diet and start to add the right nutrients to support your mind and body rather that living on food with no nutritional value. Poor food quality saps essential nutrients from your body that you need to function optimally. Poor nutrition starves your body which is a huge stressor.

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Add a supplement like magnesium which is a known relaxant.

Taken before bed can support a deep restful sleep. You can also soak in a bath of Epsom salts 40 minutes prior to bed.

Use calming herbs such as ashwagandha, valerian and passion flower.

Start a training programme and get exercising.

Reassess your beliefs — Take a look at what is important to you, your attitudes and how you currently react to stressful situations.

Spend time with those people/ friends who have similar values to you.

Make sure you get 7 – 8 hours of deep restful sleep per night.

Sleep in a cool, dark room.

HEALTH & FITNESS NUTRITION • WELLBEING

Call Now To Book Your 12-week Physique Course

ANTHONY VERNON 07717 705 795

EDINBURGH BIZ MARCH 2013 7

Fair trade A bite of Fair Trade chocolate means a lot to farmers in developing countries fair price for their goods. It means that workers benefit from a decent wage and working conditions and that the price they receive for their goods reflects the true cost of production. It also allows for investment in safe water supplies, sanitation, healthcare and education.

“A bite of Fair Trade chocolate means a lot to farmers in developing countries. It opens the doors to development and gives children access to healthcare, education, and a decent standard of living.”

Fair trade is a growing international movement to guarantee that producers in poor countries receive a

Edinburgh received its Fairtrade City Status from Harriet Lamb, Director Fairtrade Foundation at an event in the Filmhouse in February 2004.

Edinburgh received its Fairtrade City Status from Harriet Lamb, Director Fairtrade Foundation at an event in the Filmhouse in February 2004.

To support trade in which fair prices are paid to farmers in developing countries, visit the Fairtrade Coffee Shop, 30-31 Albert Place, Edinburgh, EH7 5HN

30-31 Albert Place, Leith, Edinburgh, EH7 5HN 0131 556 7684

No.1 supplier of fruit & veg to hotels & restaurants in Edinburgh

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8

Building Your Life...

13 Miles away

Plumbing is at the heart of our business

T

he Edinburgh College has decided to relocate courses in construction and joinery from the original campus in Dalkeith to Forthview in Granton, the move is to make way for a college of excellence in engineering.

The move has received much criticism from the locals, students and staff members of the college. The general view from everyone involved is that the bus back and forth will be a major deterrent for prospective students.

They could end up spending up to 10 hours a week on the bus, going from Dalkeith to Granton, and with many students holding a part time job it may affect their ability to get the grades they deserve.

I

f you’re looking to fit a new kitchen or bathroom, contact us for a noobligation estimate. JBD Plumbers work with well-known kitchen and bathroom suppliers to offer a full design, installation and supply service.

Alternatively, we’re also happy to work on a ‘supply only’ or ‘labour only’ basis as required.

We’re experienced and fully qualified to install and repair all aspects of plumbing and heating, including: • Sinks, toilets, showers and power showers • Outside taps and plumbing • Central heating systems and boilers (including gas and oil) • Under-floor heating and radiators We’re also experts in the design, supply and installation of heating and plumbing systems for domestic and

commercial new builds as well as renovations of all kinds.

Contract work is also a large part of our business. Dozens of local companies have chosen us to be their contract plumbers because of our reliability, efficiency and fair pricing. We have considerable experience in hotel and restaurant work, with over 60 pubs currently using our services on a regular basis. We are also contract plumbers for a number of specialist shops and retailers in Scotland’s Central Belt.

For total piece of mind, all our plumbing parts and labour are guaranteed for five years.

We also offer a 24/7 call-out service for emergency repairs. Simply call us on 0775 824 4176 day or night for help.

Plumbing is at the heart of our business

JBD

CONTRACTS

Plumbing & Drainage experts

Painter and Decorator

UNIFORMS AND S TA F F W E A R

30 years of experience, a proven track record in providing the highest quality workmanship: Interior and exterior projects

The courses may well see a decline in applications due to the move, and many regarding the move as not being beneficial for the local community as who will have the skillset to work in the Dalkeith area.

The College have put measures in place to help soften the blow as the bus direct from Granton to Dalkeith campuses is free. The move is inevitable and something that the current students will have to face.

We wish good luck to all the students involved and hope to see many of them graduate and go straight into work.

Wallpapering Ames taping Sash and Case windows Communal stairs

All types of personalised clothing embroidered or printed

For a no obligation quote: Call 0131

273 0603 or 07919 383 253

email adamcormackpainting@hotmail.co.uk

AdamCormack.co.uk

Leith Walk, 34 Elm Row

EDINBURGH BIZ MARCH 2013 9

A princess birthday

IT WAS A perfect princess party for Hollywood actress and author Tori Spelling’s four-yearold that was last year’s children’s party of the year.

Actors dressed as Disney characters roamed the extensive grounds of the family’s luxury home while waiting on a long white tea table under a huge pink sunshade sat a huge custom-made pink cake in the shape of a teapot.

Over the top it may have been but there is many a mother who would love to throw such

a glamorous bash for her own perfect princess or princeling.

When my own daughter was four, I really went to town. A friend helped me to make dozens of pink iced cup cakes and other fancy food and my little girl chose a Snow White costume for her party frock. I invited lots of children round to play traditional party games and for extra fun, I rented a bear suit and instructed my husband to dress up in it and growl at the kids.

Unfortunately, my husband got rather too much into the spirit of

the game. I sent the kids upstairs on a bear hunt but when he leapt out at them growling realistically he was apparently way too scarey. Panic ensued as the screaming children at the top of the stairs tried to flee, knocking down the littler ones coming up behind them. One particularly sensitive boy went into fullblown hysterics and it took his parents hours to calm him down.

Oops.

As a mother of three I have had lots of experience of children’s parties – some good, some bad. We have had bouncy castles, magicians, farm trips, camping parties and treasure hunts.

I once attended a swimming party where five minutes in the hosting mother discovered that one of the kids who had been dropped off was a complete non swimmer – after the child leapt enthusiastically into the deep end.

I have been to a trampoline party where a child broke his arm and I have hosted a bouncy castle party where an ambulance was called for a suspected broken bone which turned out to be indigestion.

For my daughter’s 12 birthday, we hired a pink limo for half a dozen girls who got dressed up in make up, high heels and party dresses and then decided to climb up to the treehouse in our

back garden – then they set off all lipstick and dirty knees.

Recession or no recession, children’s birthdays roll around with the same regularity and families want to celebrate. But unlike the Spellings most have to work within a tight budget and to get the most out of the money they spend.

Every family has to decide their own traditions – for instance not every birthday has to be a big one. There may be certain ages that feel more special.

A party may involve a primary school class of 33 kids or it may be a family affair with just a couple of pals tagged on.

It may be a day trip or a time to try a new experience, a meal out with the family, or just a cake and a hug.

Whatever it is the chances are that mum and dad, well OK, mum, will have put a great deal of time and thought into it. After all, a child’s birthday is also the anniversary of a very special day for her mum.

On average parents start planning their children’s birthdays several weeks ahead and most say they do stress about creating a day to remember. There are so many venues and experiences to choose from, but first and foremost a birthday is an opportunity for a little family fun.

My top tip, is choose something you fancy doing too. Mum having a laugh will be better to look back on than mum tearing her hair out with stress and worry, whatever the budget.

Loopy Lorna’s Tea House has been voted ‘Best Family Eatery in Edinburgh’ We have free baby food, nappies and wipes and a play area. www.loopylornas.com

Family fun time Do you want your children to be good at maths? Try putting away the books for a while and singing with them, according to recent neuroscientific research.

Skill with numbers is just one of the brain functions that can improve through singing, along with language ability and verbal reasoning.

It has been known for some time that singing is good for the health – it exercises large muscle groups in the upper body and encourages the flow of oxygen into the blood, increasing wellbeing.

But now neuroscientists are discovering it can also foster healthy brain development in children.

Mother-of-one Sian Miles helps families to enjoy the

benefits of singing together through her “Familyoke” parties and group sessions. “Singing together is a really fantastic way to get everyone in a good mood and having fun. Mum or dad can be a little bit silly and have the children laughing and it is a great way to communicate. The whole family can get involved from Grannie to the teeny tots and this gives people the option of a new idea for special family occasions’ “But as well as being a good laugh, it is very stimulating for the mind and body and when they feel good, children are that much more able to show their full potential.

“In a party situation, I can create the right atmosphere and find the songs and singing games that everyone can join in with. And a positive experience at a Familyoke session gives the whole family something to build on – next time they are in the car on a long journey they can play a singing game they learnt at Familyoke.”

Too much emphasis today is placed on the three Rs, and not enough on singing, according to

Sally Goddard Blythe, a consultant in neuro-developmental education.

“Song is a special type of speech. Lullabies, songs and rhymes of every culture carry the ‘signature’ melodies and inflections of a mother tongue, preparing a child’s ear, voice and brain for language.” Blythe says in her book, The Genius of Natural Childhood, published by Hawthorn Press.

“Neuro-imaging has shown that music involves more than just centralised hotspots in the brain, occupying large swathes on both sides,” she said.

Awareness of music and rhyme are linked to better spatial reasoning and that helps a child’s maths and science abilities.

Some parents play classical music to their offspring. But children’s response is much stronger when a parent is singing to or with them than when they are listening to recorded music, Blythe said. “Singing along with a parent is good for the development of reciprocal communication.”

facebook.com/Familyoke

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A powerful new collection from Audrey Grant The first solo exhibition of Edinburgh-based figurative artist, Audrey Grant, opens on Friday 1st March at Union Gallery on Broughton Street, Edinburgh EH1.

This exhibition follows the overwhelming success of her two-person show, ‘Being Human’, at the same gallery in 2011.

Since then, Grant has met with critical success at the RSA and at the RGI, where she won the inaugural David Gilchrist Memorial Award.

Some see Audrey Grant’s paintings austere and somewhat sinister, yet there is sensitivity to the work that leaves her audience deeply moved by the viewing experience. This new body of work has been

in the making for some 18 months and continues Grant’s exploration of the human figure and the painted surface.

Her figures are mainly solitary and isolated, with her interest being in the presence they evoke in an unspecified space.

These figures often appear ill at ease, and this physical and emotional awkwardness forces us into a powerful sense of compassion. No names, no possessions and generally alone in the world, they can appear as ‘lost souls’ who need our care and attention. When viewing Grant’s paintings, there is an uncomfortable feeling that you know who these strange figures are, or can even see yourself reflected in them. How interesting, then, that the artist claims that she ‘doesn’t know who they are’ – they are simply the result of her craft as an artist.

The Art of the Locksmith Edinburgh Biz spoke to Burgh Locks’ Alistair Grant about his trade – he kindly gave us some security advice …

“Most people think about locksmiths when they’re locked out of their property and yes – this is one of the services that we as professional locksmiths can offer but there are plenty of others too,” said Alistair.

“For example, if you’ve just moved into a new house then the first thing you should do is change the locks. After all, you don’t know who’s had copies of the keys in the past so why risk it?

Contact your local locksmith to come and supply and fit appropriate locks for you. They will know the locks you’ll need so as not to invalidate your insurance.

Of course it’s not only doors that need locks but windows too – so make sure your locksmith fits your window locks too.

Cutting keys is another area of experience for locksmiths. Why get your keys cut anywhere other than by an experienced, professional locksmith company?

Car keys and remotes, did you know that we can supply and program a whole range of vehicle keys and remotes, either to replace spare keys or where you have lost all your keys.

Audrey Grant’s paintings take months to develop: she is a ‘physical’ painter, who fights and nurtures her paintings every step of the way, and that can be an exhausting experience where often the hand to eye coordination can’t keep up with the brain. The result is fascinating – one can feel that intensity and passion in the work.

You can view this powerful collection of work at Union Gallery until 1 April.

Union Gallery 45 Broughton Street Edinburgh EH1 3JU Phone. 0131 556 7707 Email. info@uniongallery.co.uk Web. www.uniongallery.co.uk

There are several advantages of using a local locksmith over the main dealer, such as price – we can often save you 50% on dealer prices, time – many dealers will take over a week to replace your key and will need your car towed to their premises, we can come to you and program in new keys often on the same day.

But have they been vetted? Make sure who you use has been independently accredited as vetted, inspected and competent for the job at hand and can prove this.”

Burgh Locks have recently opened a new shop in Bruntsfield but that’s not the only place you can find them! They taken to social network sites to help spread the word on basic security measures. So why not connect with them for more advice?!

BURG H LOCKS The Locksmith for all your Key needs

We provide a quality and convenient Locksmith service at an affordable price. We cover all of Edinburgh, East Lothian, West Lothian, Borders and Fife.

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EDINBURGH BIZ MARCH 2013 11

St.Patricks Day Sunday 17th March

I

rish fever will soon take over the city when St. Patrick’s Day arrives. St. Patrick’s Day is an Irish cultural and religious holiday celebrated on the 17th March every year.

It is to commemorate the feast of St. Patrick who is the most widely recognised patron saint of Ireland and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland. It is a feast day and therefore people tend to visit a church service on this day, but as time has went on it has become more of a celebration of Irish culture.

The feast day sweeps the world over, it is a public holiday in many countries including Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and Montserrat. But the Irish diaspora celebrate with festivals in Canada, New Zealand, Australia , the United States and of course right here in Scotland.

With this year being the cities largest festival there are numerous events and celebrations taking place all over the city. For one night only 60 Irish dancers, live bands will be performing at

Edinburgh’s annual festival of Ireland.

The show will take place March 16th at the Jam house helping to raise funds for Motor Neurone disease Scotland. It is a very rare condition but affects more than 5000 people in the UK. It is a degenerative disease that eventually traps the person inside their body, affecting their ability to eat, move, speak and even breathe on their own.

So let us all join in the celebrations, get your Shamrock on and take part in all the fun.

Celtic dream UK Tour 2013 - Musselburgh

C

eltic Dream’s Lead dancers, Kevin Murray and Jenny Bailey attended their first Irish Dancing classes at 5 years old.

Kevin quickly climbed the ranks and went on to represent the North West of England at many international competitions including the World Championships and also held the titles of North West Regional and European Champion.

Kevin told the Edinburgh Biz, “I have been touring as an Irish dancer for the last nine years and have been all over the world with various dance shows. My girlfriend, Jenny, is from Chicago, and moved to England last year.

She has been dancing for 20 years and also competed in regional, national, and World Championships. She has won various titles throughout her dancing career and is also a certified Irish Dance Teacher (TCRG).

I have been touring as an Irish dancer for the last nine years and have been all over the world with various dance shows.

We originally met on tour, and have been traveling and dancing together as lead dancers and partners ever since.”

Being on its third year touring, Celtic Dream has been receiving great responses from audiences all over. Kevin says, “Jenny and I had this wonderful opportunity to run Celtic Dream. With all our experience and the help of our talented cast, we truly believe we have something special.”

Celtic Dream, the show, has been described as “The Heart and Soul of Ireland.” The show features an international cast of fine dancers, the Dream tenors, and traditional female vocalist which blends modern and traditional Irish music and songs. Working together with Tourism Ireland, Celtic Dream embodies the true spirit of Ireland. They will be performing throughout the UK from the 15 March through the 27 April, making a stop at the Brunton Theatre, Musselburgh on Thursday, 28 March. For more information about this show and for tickets at the Brunton Theatre call the box office at 0131 665 2240. It is definitely a show not to miss. Celtic Dream leaves you mesmerized and wanting more! For more of Celtic Dream’s tour dates, visit www.facebook.com/celticdreamshow

12

Every piece has it’s own story

I

started my business 10 years ago on Clerk Street after finishing college in 1999.

I came into business quite late on as I was originally a carer for my mother who was wheelchair bound due to a back injury she had picked up. When she died I decided it was time to further my career and so off I went to college to study jewellery design and manufacturing in Dunfermline and later I went to Glasgow.

Once I had finished college I had a number of jobs that really did nothing for my self development. My now late partner and his family suggested that I went off and started my own business. At first this terrified me the prospect of having to manage a business on my own.

Then all of a sudden on a return flight from Holland, the stewardess noticed me sketching a pendent, she asked me what I was doing.

Once I had explained, that I was working on a design for a pendent. She went off and returned soon after with four measures of whisky, and told me that I had to let her know when I opened my own shop.

It was then I decided to act upon my late partner and family’s advice. Eventually I started my own business and yes like every business it has had its ups and downs, but I have now built a name for myself of being able to produce original pieces of work, some people bring their own designs into me and I hand craft the piece for them.

Most pieces I produce are inspired by nature, architecture or Celtic culture. Often I will derive my ideas from just walking through the woods on a wet morning walking to work, as the rain drips off the leaves. Visiting places such as Roselyn chapel out as Roslin. Human form including dancers, I have worked with the likes of Phil Cunningham, who also worked on the design with me. St. Mary’s Rc Cathedral Mgr Michael Regan handed me a bag of silver weighing 4lbs over to me.

It was a collection of small Nuns crosses and I melted them down to make a large Altar cross for the Cathedral, that was to be used on Holy Days.

I work with pieces that many other craftsmen will not touch, as it looks very complicated and often the work is very simple.

Most pieces I produce are inspired by nature, architecture or Celtic culture.

Gallery Workshop 73 Clerk Street.

Edinburgh EH8 9JQ 07540657360

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Then give us a call and make the step to individuality and step away from the crowd.

From initial design concept through to production and installation, we can manage your project from start to fi­nish.

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At First Display we utilise our market leading expertise with a range of services and materials to ensure your brand enjoys maximum impact and works for your business 24 hours a day.

Our expertise has been developed and honed since the company started trading, we have diversified our offerings and our skills to suit the ever changing markets which we work within. *subject to minimum graphics quality* 0131 476 3333 www.firstdisplay.co.uk info@firstdisplay.co.uk

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0131 662 9440

EDINBURGH BIZ MARCH 2013 13

FOOD & Drink Everything from the hottest new restaurant to the hottest curry in town

Amani Punjabi takeaway (see page 14)

American diner sweets and treats

German beer and football

Authentic Italian and Mediterranean food •AT A VERY REAS ONABLE PRICE•

100% fresh ingredients Including Pizza Dough and Potato Chips 54A Clerk Street, Edinburgh EH6 9JB

www.papponitakeaway.co.uk 0131 667 97 58 / 0131 667 83 83

WHY NOT CHECK US OUT AT OR CALL US ON

Live acoustic Scottish music

14

FOOD & Drink PULLOUT

Amani Punjabi takeaway

Jus’ Chill food review American Diner & Dessert Bar American diner and dessert bar specializing in home made tower burgers, peri peri chicken, steaks, ice cream, luxury milkshakes and sundaes.

Hours: Mon - Sun: 11:00 - 23:00 Services: Takes bookings, Walk-ins welcome, Good for groups or parties, Takeaway, Table service

Reviews Jus’ Chill is a great new American diner on Marshall Street. My friends and I went after our Uni class one day and we now go all the time. My favorite thing to eat is the peri peri chicken, which is home made and tastes great! They also serve steaks and burgers in true diner style. The best thing about Jus’ Chill is the ice cream sundaes, these are fantastic and you can choose anything you want from the bar, the milkshakes are a great accompaniment to any meal too, try these if you get the chance. There is a very chilled atmosphere and the staff are very friendly. Anyone who wants to chill out and enjoy some good food should head to Jus’ Chill.

14 Marshall St, Edinburgh, Midlothian, EH8 9BU 0131 662 8895 Amani takes great pride in providing top quality, authentic Indian and Pakistani dishes. If you are looking for something to get your engine burning and tickle those taste buds or even something more mild then Amani can cater for you, no stone has been left unturned and the taste sensations are just spectacular. The quality of the food surpasses all expectations, cooked by professional chefs with locally sourced ingredients.

Amani Indian Takeaway is a newly opened takeaway located in the beautiful area of Morningside.

The shop itself is a modern, professional and unique place with a wonderfully friendly atmosphere.

When you walk in, you can see the dedication and detail going into every dish as the chef’s work tirelessly in the open kitchen for everyone to see. I would go to Amani for the friendliness of the staff alone, they make you feel incredibly comfortable, and go that extra mile to please you. If it is an experience you are looking for, along with top quality food, then Amani is the place to go. It will be the missing piece to set off your quiet night in, in front of the fire or television.

What’s hot Try the Tandoori King Prawns King prawns marinated in fresh herbs & barbecued on skewers And for main order the Shahi Lamb Rogan Josh Garlic onions & lots of tomatoes & green peppers in a medium sauce Or Order the Tinda Ghoust This is the most popular dish of Punjabi, winter squash cooked with meat of your choice cooked in Balti with Punjabi green herbs & spices And for side dishes try Garlic Tarka Dal, Afghani rice and Peshwari Nan

Reviews

A ME R IC A N DINE R & DE S S E RT B A R

“There is a lot of variety to choose from. The food was delicious and big portions. The Tikka Masala was very tasty, would definitely recommend it to others to try & experience for themselves. Excellent value for money. The driver was very polite and delivered right on time.”

“Delicious food. Never tasted anything like this before.”

Home delivery available 0131 447 5566 0131 447 9898 Open 7 days 5pm – 11pm 124 Morningside Road Edinburgh EH10 4BX www.amaniindiantakeaway.co.uk All major credit cards accepted

Ice Cream • Milkshakes • Sundaes • Coffee • Cake Home Made Tower Burgers • Peri Peri Chicken, Opening times: 12noon - 11pm Book table reservations: 0131 662 8895

20% with this voucher OFF

14 Marshall Street, Edinburgh

EDINBURGH BIZ MARCH 2013 15

FOOD & Drink PULLOUT Captains Bar Live acoustic Scottish music at Captain’s bar

Papponi Takeaway/ Cafe Reviews My friend and I went to Papponi because a friend told us about the delicious pasta, and they weren’t lying. The pasta in this little place is amazing, it was so fresh and flavoursome. I had the Penne Al Arrabiata, the fresh chilli, garlic and black olives were a great combination, and the portion size was perfect. My friend had pizza, the Quattro Stagioni; Ham, Onion, Fresh Chilli & Pepperoni, he said that it was delicious and fresh. We also had a Greek salad to share, this was a brilliant addition to the meal, and again was tasty and fresh. Papponi is not just another takeaway, the food is exceptional and the people who work there are fun and friendly.

54a Clerk Street, Edinburgh EH8 9JB 0131 667 8383

Munchiez Takeaway/ Cafe Reviews Munchiez is the ideal spot to chill with friends and eat some good, affordable food! My friends and I have been a number of times and we love the box meals and the selection of pizza and kebabs. When we went the first time we couldn’t believe the price, it really is great value for money. The desserts in Munchiez are to die for; there are a great range of sundaes and milkshakes. We all tried different sundaes, you can literally get anything you want on your ice cream!

The guys who work in the diner are extremely friendly and down to earth; they really made us feel welcome. There are such a wide variety of foods to suit anyone and everyone; I would recommend this place to everyone, especially students. Great food, great vibe.

Saffrani Indian restaurant

Reviews Saffrani is a quiet hidden treasure, the restaurant is very unassuming, but the food was something different and very nice indeed. This restaurant should pride itself on the friendliness of the staff and the welcome to diner. My husband and I stumbled across this little gem and we are so glad that we did! For starter I had tandoori king prawns, these were delicious, very flavorsome, served with salad and sauce.

My husband enjoyed the lamb chops; tender pieces of lamb cooked in spices, which he claimed, were the best he had ever eaten! For my main course I had the Goan fish curry, this was absolutely delicious, a selection of fish cooked in coconut and cream, the fish melted in my mouth. I also had the Dal Tadka, which is split yellow lentils, this was very tasty and perfect with the garlic nan that we ordered. We had pilau rice to share, which was cooked perfectly. My husband loves fiery food; he had the lamb vindaloo, which he said had a fabulous rich hot taste. Everything that we were served was fresh and delicious.

The staff are so friendly and spoke to us for some time, we were made to feel very welcome. I would recommend this place to everyone; you must go and try the authentic Indian cuisine for yourself.

Brauhaus Bar

BaGet Stuffed Sandwich bar/ cafe

Review

Desserts

Hot Rolls and Plates Served 7-11am

Cakes • Waffles Shakes • Ices • Falooda

Snacks

Falafel

Description here

Reviews Pizzas 7”/ 9”/ 12”/ 16” Sizes your own “ReviewsCreate here

South College Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9AA

0131 667 1597

0131 668 3610

Baguettes • Paninis Wraps • Rolls Toasties Munchiez • Samosas Pakoras • Salads Brauhaus Bar Quesadillas Burgers Restaurant type • Kebabs

captainsedinburgh.webs.com

11 South College Street, Edinburgh EH8 9AA

7 St Patrick St, Edinburgh EH8 9HB

Breakfasts

A wonderful mix of original and traditional songs. Every night is different. We loved our visits to Captains: great music, sweet staff, charming without being cheesy or overdone. Loved the nostalgic interior, the decorations and the people. It gives you a really cozy feeling. The music is brilliant as well. I enjoyed Andy Chung and Allan Foster. Go and enjoy the people and the music! Take a look on their website to find the gig guide; this will allow you to see what is on offer in this quirky little bar.

With Chips • Wraps Salads • Specials

Chips n Stuff

Cheese • Jalapenos Doner • Chicken

Specials

Masala Fish • Wedges Chilli Fries • Munchiez

7 Patrick Street | Edinburgh | EH8 9HB | 0131 668 3610 7am-11pm | Home Delivery Available | 10% Student Discount Address 012345678912

Bring a copy of the paper for 15% off

“What a fantastic little eatery, it just goes to show that you don’t have to cook fancy or complicated masterpieces to know good food. BaGet stuffed serve good food made from fresh, delicious ingredients. Not only do you get a nice meal, you leave with a smile on your face; the staff are extremely friendly and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. There were so many fillings available, one for every customer and taste! When speaking to the owner, he told us that they make their own humus, falafel and garlic mayonnaise.” “it is refreshing to hear that there are still businesses making their food from scratch! I had one of the famous homemade chicken burgers; it was so juicy and fresh! I was very impressed that these were freshly prepared and not frozen! My boyfriend had one of the Mexican chicken panini’s, which he said was one of the best he has ever had.

After our meal we tried some of the homemade cakes and enjoyed the best nutella hot chocolate I have ever had, this was the icing on the cake, quite literally! We will most definitely be back here, a lovely, fun place, the clue is in the name, BaGet Stuffed!”

59 Nicolson Street Edinburgh EH8 9B2 0131 662 0858

Brauhaus Bar has a large selection of beers from all around the world; to say their selection is extensive is an understatement.

The German wheat beers in particular attract a lot of people to this cosey, friendly little bar. Everyone is welcome at Brauhaus, from students to tourists. The staff are always extremely helpful and friendly and make you feel at home. The bar is known for the live sport that is often on offer and the selection of music played in the background. If your looking for a bar to chill out, drink some delicious beer and enjoy some football or Motown music, then the Brauhaus is ideal. Brauhaus is a breath of fresh air, pop in and see for yourself!

Open 3pm- 1am “We have the largest selection of beer in the country. Watch out for new beers, and all live sports” 105 Lauriston Place, EH3 0131 629 5434

16

FOOD & Drink PULLOUT

AT TUK TUK WE DO INDIAN STREET FOOD WITH A MIX OF AUTHENTIC ROADSIDE AND RAILWAY DISHES ONE LEVEN STREET | TOLLCROSS EH3 9LF

ee

e

7d ays a

W

Op

n

k

A MIG OS Delivery Take Away Monday - Saturday 11am - 11pm Sunday 2pm - 11pm

T: 0131 656 6899 order online: www.amigosedinburgh.com and www.justeat.co.uk

Amigos Family Meal ll

£11.95

8 pcs Chicken, 8 Spicy Wings, 4 fries and Bottle of Coke.

Amigos Family Bucket lll

£13.95

12 pcs Chicken, 8 Spicy Wings, 6 fries and Bottle of Coke.

Chicken Wings Meal £3.95 5 pcs Spicy Wings, Fries and Drink.

Amigos Chicken Tikka on Nan £4.95 Chicken Tikka Sizzlers, onions, mushroom, Fries & Drink.

Dinner Meal

Chicken 1 pcs 2 pcs 3 pcs

£1.95 £2.95 £3.95

Fries and drink

Amigos Lamb Tikka on Nan £5.95

Lamb Tikka Sizzlers, peppers, onions, mushrooms, Fries & Drink.

All Pizzas 12” £3.95 - £7.50 Any 3 Pizzas for

£13.95

except Seafood Pizza

EDINBURGH BIZ MARCH 2013 17

Computer says No! The nice guys at Simply Fix It are back with more answers

Q

I used to have large icons on my desktop but for some reason they are now so small I can hardly see what they are. Is there any easy way that I can increase the size?

A Q

I have a new laptop with Windows 7 operating system. It comes with something called a snipping tool.

Can you tell me what it does and how I can use it?

Q

A

he snipping tool is a very T handy little tool for taking an immediate snapshot of anything on your screen. To use the tool simply click on the snipping tool icon then click and scroll over the area that you want to copy. As soon as you release the mouse the area that you selected can be saved for you to keep a copy of or to email it to someone else. Play around with it as it’s great fun.

A

I am using Microsoft Word 2007 but for some reason the ribbon bar with all my editing icons has disappeared. How can I get it back?

his is a very common thing T to happen but the good thing is that it is easily rectified. Open up word and you will see “Home, Insert, Page Layout etc” at the top of your screen. Place your mouse over the menu bar and right click. You will see a tick next to “minimise the ribbon”. Simply un-tick the box and your ribbon will appear back where it was.

es, I guess that you are usY ing either Windows Vista or Windows 7. Increasing and decreasing the icon size is very simple. Go to your desktop and simply hold down the Ctrl button and turn the scroll wheel on your mouse at the same time.

You will see the icons either getting bigger or smaller depending on the way you are scrolling.

the top of your keyboard.

Ctrl plus scrolling the wheel mouse also works.

Q

y laptop screen is not very M bright especially when I am working off the battery but I cannot find out how to turn the brightness up. Is there a switch somewhere on my laptop?

A

he brightness, plus many T other functions on your laptop, is controlled by pressing a few keys at the same time on your keyboard. If you look at your keyboard, usually in the bottom line, left

hand side, you will see a key called Fn. It is usually a different colour. You will see some icons on other keys the same colour as Fn button. Look for a picture of something that looks like a glowing sunshine and if you tap this while holding down the Fn key your screen will brighten up. This function also works for the volume too. Hold down the Fn key and tap the button that looks like a mini speaker.

Q

I n my browser, I am using Firefox, the text is very small.

How can I make the text bigger?

A

I n both Internet Explorer and Firefox the solution is the same. Hold down the Ctrl button and tap the + or – button to zoom in and out.

The + and – buttons are to the left of the “backspace” button on the 2nd line from

Biz Careers If you want to be part of a hard working team, supporting and promoting local independent businesses and you see yourself as a dedicated, passionate individual then get in touch with us today on 07969120228 or email info@ edinburghbiz.org

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FASHION 18

Boys, boys, boys!

WoW – February has flown by since my FIRST Column for Edinburgh Biz Newspaper and Thank You, as my initial writings have been so well received I have been invited back to become a permanent feature!

Last month I wrote about looking hot in colder weather and I focused locally to where I live, the New Town area of Stockbridge. I am keeping with Stockbridge for this issue, but this time I want to hand over to The Boys. It’s not easy looking stylish and individual at the best of times and I have to hand it to my male counterparts, the choice isn’t exactly huge if you prefer to shop away from the High Street.

Argentinean Leather Bosillos Bag

by Lilies & Dreams

liliesanddreams) We Brits have always For the discerning been lucky enough to dapper gent, Those have the stylish male Were the Days Vinat the forefront of tage (26 St Stephen our heritage. Harris Street) boasts an exTweed.. The Bowler clusive, hand picked Hat.. Morning Dress.. range from the 1920’s Need I go on? Lets through to the 80’s. face it, what other naCasual leisure pieces tion could lay claim to accompany bow ties, inspire Ian Fleming to gift Military Cotton Cap cravats and evening wear us the supremely suavely

by Lilies & Dreams as well as an excellent selecdressed 007? (Even if he is now tion of immaculate military attire and dressed by American designer Tom accessories. Those Were The Days Vintage Ford). (facebook.com/thosewerethedaysvintage) That entirely aside, every once in a while we need a helping hand, a poke in the right direction, or simply just some really good pointers for great products, selection and customer service.

Whilst I am not a chap, I do reside with one and indeed, shop with him also. So feel able to give just those pointers for when you’re next off out with a wardrobe update requirement.

Lilies & Dreams (28 St Stephen Street) has just launched the beginnings of its first Men’s Collection. Argentinian HairOn-Hide Weekender Holdalls nestle in with Media Cases and Messenger Bags.

Wallets, Cufflinks and Scarves compliment the selection, and if this remains as well received as at the launch evenArgentinean Leather Weekend Holdall ing, will continue to grow along with the

by Lilies & Dreams brand. Lilies & Dreams (facebook.com/

Beauty made simple

Come in and see us or see more online

www.yekta96.co.uk 96 South Bridge Edinburgh, EH1 1HN Tel: 0131 225 9706

Unbeatable prices for: Eye Treatments Facials Hands, Feet and Nails Massage Waxing Threading Tanning Holistic Treatments Male Grooming

0131 346 8888 for an appointment

Visit our website for prices www.zuri.co.uk www.facebook.com/zuribeautytherapy 41 Dalry RoadHaymarket EH11 2BU

Arafat Scarves(palestinian Scarves) • Bags • Bandanas • Bangles • Belly Dancing • Belts Bracelets • Brooches • Clip Earrings • Contact Lenses • Cross • Earrings • Fascinators Fashion Shop Stock • Gloves • Gothic Bracelets • Gothic Necklaces • Hair Accessory Hair Colour • Hats • Leather Bracelets • Legwarmers • Necklaces • Nose Studs Pashminas • Patches • Piercings • Rings • Tiaras • Watch • Straps & Batteries • Wrist Bands

Zeenat Style

14 Easter Road Edinburgh

0131 656 9693

EDINBURGH BIZ MARCH 2013 19

and BEAUTY It’s been a tough one this month Love a more relaxed look? Not but don’t get me wrong, helping the to worry, the newly opened Dicks boys is always a pleasure and never of Edinburgh (3 North West Circus a chore. I’m looking forward to Place) is guaranteed to answer taking a wander outside your prayers! With specialised my EH3 postcode in pieces sourced from around March to discover the world: Shetland more amazing Isle Jumpers, Original gems. Have a Breaton Tops from favourite area or France and a fabulous Boutique? Let Brogue Collection, me know and directly from Tricker’s I’ll go visit - the in England – this really only criteria is is the go-to-boutique that they have to for men’s style. Dicks Purple marble cufflinks be Independent of Edinburgh (facebook.

by Lilies & Dreams Retailers in an EH com/dicksedinburgh) Postcode - I look In covering clothes, forward to hearing from accessories and footwear you.. hasta entounces! for all you style conscious males the expression Top-To-Toe came to Our Monthly Fashion Column is mind - and so I wanted to draw your written by JoJo Hernandez from attention to Vagabond Mens Hair – Lilies & Dreams Handbag & what seems to be the busiest but most Accessories Boutique on St Stephen chilled out Barbers in Edinburgh. The Street, Stockbridge – owner Paul is relaxed and has years www.liliesanddreams.com of experience and above all, is even Product Photography by able to tame Mr JoJo’s double crown!

Jordan Moffat Photography – Vagabond Mens Hair (facebook.com/ www.jordanmoffat.co.uk vagabond.mens.hair)

Lilies & Dreams Basement Boutique, 28 St Stephen Street Stockbridge EH3 5AL

www.liliesanddreams.com

Smooch Men and women’s clothing and accessories Vintage, once loved and new Semi precious crystal jewellery

10 Clerk Street – Edinburgh – EH8 9HX Hours: Mon-Sat 10:00-19:00 Sun 11:00-17:30

Find us on Facebook

Find us on Yelp

Smooch is a beautiful, quirky shop packed full of special items with bargain finds aplenty. When you walk through the door the friendly staff greet you and assist you in your hunt for extraordinary gems. The clothes have been sourced from many places, such as vintage fairs, other cities and countries and from previous owners. You will be able to put a beautiful outfit together at an affordable price and you will also find the perfect accessories to complete your look. If you like all things vintage or you just love to shop then head down to Smooch for a real treat!

Open 11.30- 18.00 55 Bread Street Edinburgh EH3 9AH 0131 228 8787

20

Castlebrae Community High School closure recommended by report A report into the future of a community high school in the Craigmillar area of Edinburgh has recommended closing it.

A

report into the future of a community high school in the Craigmillar area of Edinburgh has recommended closing it.

City council officials said they believed children would get a better education by transferring from Castlebrae High to other schools.

Councillors will decide at a meeting on 14 March whether it should close at the end of the school year.

Castlebrae has some of the worst exam results, truancy and exclusion rates in the country.

The school, which is in an area dogged by unemployment and health problems, currently has just 165 pupils on its roll - some 28% of its capacity - with only 17 S1 pupils.

With all things considered, I strongly believe that pupils will receive a better education elsewhere Gillian Tee Director of children and families Parents and pupils have been campaigning to keep it open.

Ahead of next month’s meeting, the council has published a report outlining the consultation process that was carried out on the issue.

It concluded that pupils at Castlebrae continued to receive a “very poor” education as a result of the very low roll, and that the needs of young people in the Castlebrae

catchment area would be better met at neighbouring schools where there is capacity to do so.

It recommended that current pupils at Castlebrae Community High School would be offered a place at Portobello High School, although parents could choose to send their children to other city schools if places were available.

The council’s director of children and families, Gillian Tee, said

she believed there was a strong case for closure.

She added: “I am recommending the closure of Castlebrae Community High School as, with all things considered, I strongly believe that pupils will receive a better education elsewhere.

“This is not a recommendation which has been made lightly; all responses received and views expressed during the extensive

Councillors will decide at a meeting on 14 March whether it should close at the end of the school year.

consultation process have been carefully considered.

“For those issues that were raised we have looked at the impact and whether we can provide solutions to ensure concerns are addressed.

“Should the closure be agreed we will work tirelessly to ensure the proposals I am putting forward will help address these concerns and ultimately ensure the best outcome for the young people of Castlebrae and the wider community.”

In its recent budget, the council reaffirmed its pledge to build a new, modern secondary school in the Craigmillar area, which it projects will be required in 2020 as regeneration brings more families into the area.

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If you see yourself as a bit of a journalist and have an interesting tale to tell then send us any information to info@edinburghbiz.org.

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EDINBURGH BIZ MARCH 2013 21

A bridge over troubled water Corrosion problems on the Forth Road Bridge appear to have been resolved, engineers have found.

A system to stop wires cracking in the suspension cables has greatly reduced concerns about their future safety.

This is the first inspection report since a dehumidification system was installed on the bridge cables four years ago.

But Transport Scotland said the improvement did not mean a new Forth crossing was no longer needed.

The rate of deterioration of cable strength has been reduced The latest inspection report on the repair work from chief engineer and bridgemaster Barry Colford concluded: “The results of the inspection appears to demonstrate that the rate of deterioration of cable strength has been reduced and the factor of safety against failure of the cables has not materially diminished.

“This is giving strong comfort that the newly installed dehumidification system is retarding the corrosion of the bridge wires.”

New Forth crossing A spokesman for the Forth Road Bridge said this had given them optimism that the lifespan of the cables had been greatly extended.

They now believe the cables will remain safe for as long as the dehumidification process keeps working.

Concerns over the suspension cables were a factor in the decision to build a new £1bn Forth crossing, which is due to open in 2016.

Green MSP for Lothian Alison Johnstone suggested: “This report removes the central justification that the SNP made for blowing over a billion pounds on a new bridge.

“The Scottish Greens were the only party arguing strongly that repairing the existing bridge, even if the cables had to be replaced, would have cost a tiny fraction of the price and with no closure of the bridge.

“Those who wanted to see if the repairs worked before blowing billions on a new bridge were the responsible ones, while other parties charged recklessly ahead.

Still essential “The Scottish government must keep

their promise to restrict use of the existing bridge to buses, bikes and pedestrians, otherwise they will simply have created an eight-lane motorway over the Forth, encouraging ever more traffic and congestion coming into Edinburgh.”

However, government agency Transport Scotland said the replacement for the Forth Road Bridge was still essential.

A spokesman added: “Cables will need to be continually monitored and inspected for the remainder of their service life and damage already done to the wires inside the cables cannot be repaired.

“The most disruptive maintenance project

in the bridge’s history has already been put on hold and, without an alternative crossing, this would have caused unprecedented disruption to traffic and the economy over an extended period.”

Meanwhile, Transport Minister Keith Brown has said he was “puzzled” by claims that Edinburgh taxpayers could be hit with a multi-million pound compensation bill for roadworks leading to the new Forth road bridge.

Transport Scotland said the Forth Estuary Transport Authority (Feta), fully funded by the Scottish government, was liable for any compensation claims received.

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EDINBURGH BUSINESS INCUBATOR OPENS

E

dinburgh’s first completely free, available to all, business incubator and accelerator programme formally opens its doors today (Friday 22nd February) amid calls for entrepreneurs in the east of Scotland to make the most of the opportunity.

Entrepreneurial Spark (ESpark) welcomes Mike Russell MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning, to officially open its Edinburgh ‘hatchery’ at South Gyle. The Edinburgh hatchery is ESpark’s third and it is hoped it will deliver the same level of success as its Glasgow and Ayrshire hatcheries which have provided mentoring and support services to more than 130 startup ‘chiclets’.

ESpark chiclets were dominant in the final of the Scottish Government’s EDGE (Encouraging Dynamic Growth Entrepreneurs) competition this week, making up more than half of the successful finalists. The ten ESpark representatives scooped more than £300,000 of the £540,000 of funding capital which was awarded.

Speaking ahead of today’s official opening, Mike Russell MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning, said: “Scotland is developing a new spirit of entrepreneurship and it is absolutely

ing economic times, it is important we encourage would-be entrepreneurs to make a success of their fledgling businesses and the hatchery provides the right kind of environment to achieve this.”

Ann will be joined at the official opening by a number of influential figures from Scotland’s business community, including Lindsay Gardiner, regional leader of PwC in Scotland, Gordon Merrylees, Regional Managing Director at Royal Bank of Scotland, Sir Tom Hunter and Sir Willie Haughey. crucial that we and our partners encourage and support the next generation. Our commitment to this is clear from the £2 million Scottish EDGE Fund where Entrepreneurial Spark have played a leading role.

“We have a wealth of talent and ideas in Scotland and the ambition and vibrancy of Entrepreneurial Spark will help to ensure we find and nurture our business leaders of the future.”

Established in January 2012, ESpark is Scotland’s first free business incubator and accelerator programme. It provides entrepreneurs with fully serviced office space and the advice, support and networking opportunities required to help them survive and thrive during the

challenging first year of being a start-up.

The Edinburgh hatchery is being delivered in partnership with Edinburgh Napier University and City of Edinburgh Council. The University has provided the use of its buildings at South Gyle and the Council has supported the initiative with a significant six-figure sum to meet the initial set-up and running costs.

Up to 35 start-up businesses will be based there at any one time and they will be able to call upon the advice and experience of Ann Gloag, co-founder of Stagecoach Group and one of Scotland’s most successful entrepreneurs. Ann will be the hatchery’s entrepreneur-in-chief, a role filled by Sir Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter at ESpark’s Glasgow and Ayrshire hatcheries respectively.

Ann Gloag said: “I have a long-standing relationship with Edinburgh Napier University so was delighted to accept the Principal’s invitation to support ESpark’s Edinburgh hatchery. In these challeng-

We have a wealth of talent and ideas in Scotland and the ambition and vibrancy of Entrepreneurial Spark will help to ensure we find and nurture our business leaders of the future.

Both Royal Bank of Scotland and PwC are significant supporters of the ESpark programme, providing mentoring services to chiclets and sponsoring a series of events throughout the year.

Several of the entrepreneurs who will be based at the hatchery will pitch their business ideas to the guests before going on a tour of the new facility. Having a centre in Edinburgh will allow a number of entrepreneurs who were previously commuting daily to ESpark’s Glasgow hatchery to relocate closer to home, saving precious time and money.

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ITS DOORS FOR ENTREPRENEURS Jim Duffy, co-founder of ESpark said: “We are proud to be bringing our successful format to Edinburgh and giving entrepreneurs in the east of Scotland the opportunities we have provided in Glasgow and Ayrshire. A year ago we launched ESpark with the aim of kickstarting an entrepreneurial revolution in Scotland and the opening of our third hatchery means we have certainly made progress.

“Entrepreneurs with the talent and ambition to start their own business will be the lifeblood of our economy in years to come. I urge anyone thinking of setting up a business to get in touch with us at ESpark because supporting your business to survive and thrive in its first year is what we do.

“Our success in helping to create more than 160 jobs for the Scottish economy would not have been possible without the significant and ongoing support of all our backers. We would like to thank everyone who has made our success possible and look forward to rolling

the ESpark programme out across Scotland.”

It is hoped that having a centre with a track record of supporting successful start-up businesses will deliver economic benefit to Edinburgh and the surrounding area. From its existing hatcheries ESpark has already been responsible for: • Supporting 139 start-up businesses, with a turn-over of more than £3.5 million • Helping those businesses attract funding in excess of £2.5 million • Creating 196 jobs • Assisting its chiclets in securing 62 patents and trademarks, and 16 licences and franchises Councillor Frank Ross, Economy Convenor of City of Edinburgh Council, said: “This initiative is a great example of our wider incubation programme and what can be achieved through a partnership approach as promoted in our Strategy for Jobs.

“We all need to work together

to provide the right conditions for new businesses and new jobs, ensuring the capital remains an attractive place to do business and helping to get people back into work. It’s also important for Scotland, as our cities are key drivers of economic growth for the county as a whole.”

Professor Dame Joan Stringer, Principal and Vice Chancellor of Edinburgh Napier University said:

“Imbuing our students with confidence, creativity and an entrepreneurial mindset is at the heart of what we do at Edinburgh Napier, which is why we felt it was so important to embrace the opportunity of linking up with ESpark, an enterprise whose ‘can-do’ ethos mirrors our own.”

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Gordon Merrylees, Managing Director of RBS Business Banking in Scotland, said: “RBS already sponsors the successful hatcheries in Glasgow and Ayrshire as part of our three year commitment to inspiring enterprise, so we’re delighted to also be involved in mentoring new businesses in the Edinburgh hatchery.

“The fact that so many ESpark chiclets were finalists in the EDGE awards, which RBS were a part of, should be a great motivator for Edinburgh-based entrepreneurs to take advantage of the support RBS can provide to build knowledge, provide expertise, create confidence, and facilitate networks.

“By providing this support, we will develop entrepreneurs who are better equipped to meet the challenges of starting out, growing and ultimately succeeding in business. That’s good for the businesses involved and it’s good for Scotland too.”

Lindsay Gardiner, regional leader, PwC in Scotland, said: “Entrepreneurial businesses are a vital cog in Scotland’s eco-

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Pulp fiction

In Vegas, expect casinos. In Milan, expect fashion. In Edinburgh, Britain’s literary capital, expect booksellers and bookwriters - and increasingly more of the latter.

Add Edinburgh’s large population of devoted readers, and that’s where Pulp Fiction comes in.

On 29 September 2011, Steve Rapaport opened Pulp Fiction on 43 Bread Street.

The shop specializes in genre fiction, with separate categories

for crime, horror, science fiction, fantasy, pulp classics, and graphic novels, among others. An increasing range of classics and collectables will satisfy most cravings, while those few extra books he doesn’t have, new or used, he’s amazingly efficient at ordering for you.

The kind of books you’d find in most bookstores under ‘literature’ or just as ‘fiction’ are kept in a section labelled ‘mum and dad’.

Rapaport explains his choice

to specialize in genre fiction as “sticking with the stuff I know.”

He sells the books he likes to read and can talk about with his customers, and most of these are heirs to the ‘Pulp’ classics of the 1920s to 1970s.

Before opening Pulp Fiction, Rapaport worked in theatre and as a trainer, an online bookseller, and an IT professional.

He chose Pulp Fiction’s site carefully, locating it in Westport – ‘where everybody comes looking for books’ – close to the university and the art college. ‘A confluence of all the folks I would want to sell to,’ he explains.

With devoted readers satisfied, the next step is to build more world-class authors. To this end, the Pulp Fiction Writers’ Centre opened officially in November 2012 with a workshop by bestselling author Sara Sheridan. Rapaport’s objective is to bring budding authors into bloom, with a combination of regular group sessions, workshops, and courses.

Writers’ Centre offerings begin with regular Sunday and Monday group sessions for creative writ-

Pulp Fiction devotes much of its floorspace to a comfy seating area where Soup Dragon David Steel serves amazing chilis and soups to die for, and unmissable combo deals like a cake and coffee for just £2.99. His homemade soups and deli-quality sandwiches will keep you in relaxed comfort while you attend a unique seminar or just browse for the next great read.Pulp Fiction 43 Bread Street Edinburgh, EH3 9AH Phone: 0131 229 4444 Email: info@pulp-books.com Website: www.pulp-books.com

ers. Monthly workshops by successful authors like Nicola Morgan focus on specific points of writing technique.

Workshops on particular genres have included Writing Erotica (by Mills and Boon) and will include SF, Crime, and Horror workshops by local luminaries like Charles Stross and Lin Anderson. Seminars on the business of writing will include Guerilla Marketing by Tracy Griffen and Boot Camp for Authors by Sara Sheridan.

Longer multi-session courses will soon include Short Story writing, Writing Genre Fiction, Slam Poetry for champions, and more. Keep an eye on the Events calendar at www.pulp-books. com.

The Pulp Fiction Cafe is a brilliant attraction in itself. Unlike your typical musty bookshop,

BOOK REVIEWS by The Edinburgh Bookshop I’ll Be There

by Holly Coldberg Sloan This is a story about a girl and a boy and their families. Emily is a suburban school girl waiting for life to begin, Sam a boy dragged from crime to crime by his alcoholic father, wishing he could escape but unable to abandon his younger brother. Sam meets Emily and their lives change forever. A spurned suitor of Emily’s turns private detective, putting Sam and his family on the run with horrific consequences.

This is a love story, but not in the way you’d think. I was originally put off by it because of the love story genre (it’s not my favourite genre by any means) but at the insistence of a friend, I read it and was quietly blown away. I was reminded of The Cone Gatherers by Robin Jenkins and of the butterfly effect; one small initial and seemingly innocuous incident having a larger knock on effect.

In this story, a song badly sung and a haircut are all it takes to potentially destroy the lives of two families. This is a book

about family love, sibling love, self love and about the love that challenges you and changes you. And all this love is wrapped within a drama which will stop your breath, race your heart and have you begging, ‘please let it end well’. I cried twice - once at the kittens (yes there are kittens, sorry) and then again at the scream (page 304), which ripped my heart out, so beautifully and gut wrenchingly was it built up. I hugged this book when I finished it. A young adult novel that I would like to see successfully find its way to the adult market and one which I will read again and again.

by Cat Anderson, Children’s Specialist at Edinburgh Bookshop.

Beautiful Creatures

by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl It’s hurricane season in Gatlin.

Ethan knows a storm is coming but of what kind he isn’t sure. The dreams – so real that mud cakes the cracks between nail and finger –

tell a story of him and a mystery girl. Her hair is black as midnight, eyes as bright as starlight.

So when the storm finally sets in so does she; Lena Duchannes, the niece of the illusive Macon Ravenwood, . With a past and a seemingly unbreakable curse in her wake, Ethan can’t help but suddenly be involved. His normal Gatlin life will be changed in a way he never could have imagined.

A clever love story wrapped up in Wiccan lore, the curses of ancestors and a really cool house!

Refreshing in that it is written from the male character’s perspective, Beautiful Creatures is a gripping story of forbidden love, secrets and magic. Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl are an explosive combination that have together created an enchanting tale that is impossible to put down.

by Edinburgh Bookshop bookclub member Rebekah and Cat, Chhildren’s Bookseller.

Entangled

by Cat Clark A deceptive beginning which I finally figured out about two thirds of the way through the story but by that point I really cared about what was happening to the main character Grace. You will love and loathe her in equal measure, smile at her humour and yet want to scream in exasperation at her. For this is a teenager on a road to self destruction.

There’s no shying away from it, Grace behaves very badly indeed. And this is what is so good about this book. Insightful writing that takes no prisoners it tells the tale of what happens to a teenager who loses a parent under the most hideous of circumstances. I actually began to wonder if Cat Clarke worked with disturbed teenagers because I found her unfolding of Grace’s character and story brilliantly portrayed. Grace confuses love with sex, self esteem and confidence with alcohol and ultimately finds herself betrayed again and again by family,

friends and herself.

I finished this book in one reading as I simply had to understand what the heck was going on. Very clever, honest and not for younger readers I’m afraid as it contains themes of alcohol, sex, suicide and swearing – the latter of which some reviewers seem to object to more than anything else. In fact one accused the book of being profane. It isn’t. I hear worse at the bus stop. But yes it is very edgy, doesn’t shy away from certain issues and it deals with themes that will keep it firmly on the older YA reader shelf!

A clever beginning, a tantalising ending and a seriously messed up teenager Entangled in between. Big thumbs up from me! Cat has written two further books, Undone and Torn, both superbly psychological, with brilliant twists in the tail (contain themes not suitable for younger readers).

The Edinburgh Bookshop 219 Bruntsfield Place Edinburgh, Lothian EH10 4DH, tel 0131 447 1917

EDINBURGH BIZ MARCH 2013 25

This Easter a Circus with a difference is rolling into Edinburgh A one day only circus extravaganza Looking for something to do as a family this Easter? Why not go to a circus with twist? On Tuesday 26th of March from 1pm to 5pm, The Big Top Fundraiser will be held in Edinburgh Corn Exchange in aid of Edinburgh Sick Kids Friends Foundation.

The Big Top Fundraiser is a circus themed, fun-filled afternoon for the entire family, being organised by seven second year Event Management students from Queen Margaret University. They are planning an unconventional circus that will blow spectators minds.

This event promises to be enjoyable for the whole family, and is something different to do while kids are off over the Easter Holidays.

Stefanie Anderson, one of the event organisers said, ‘This event promises to be enjoyable for the whole family, and is something different to do while kids are off over the Easter Holidays.’

‘There will be plenty of opportunities to meet and take photos with the wide variety of circus performers on show and our special guests, members of the Edinburgh Rugby squad.’

Throughout the event there will be chances to win amazing prizes which have been kindly donated by sponsors; some of which include Murrayfield Stadium and VenturePhotography.

Stefanie went on to say, ‘Edinburgh Sick Kids is a very important charity in Edinburgh and the surrounding area, they do everything they can to help sick children and their families. It’s a privilege to be able to donate all of our proceeds from The Big Top Fundraiser to them.’

‘We are still looking for potential sponsors, so if you would like to get involved contact us at qmuevents2012@gmail.com, to find out what we can do for you in return for your sponsorship.’

Tickets for this event are available online at www.thebigtopfundraiser. moonfruit.com with prices ranging from £7.50 to £15. For more updates check out The Big Top Fundraiser on Facebook.

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26

Edinburgh BIZness Awards 2013 Wasteful Ireland punished by Scotland

The aim of the Edinburgh BIZness Awards is to showcase the value of independent retailers to the communities. Promoting the diversity within the industry, recognising and rewarding the entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen which lies behind thriving independent retailers.

The Edinburgh BIZness Awards celebrate local businesses for their local community. They aim to give local communities a way to voice their appreciation and loyalty to their independent retailer of choice. The categories are:

This was a game that Scotland were not supposed to win. The Irish team was plagued by injuries and suspensions, which included seven key players who would have been guaranteed starters.

But even with such a depleted squad, Ireland where still the overwhelming favourites to take the points at Murrayfield.

With a wealth of experience and quality throughout the squad, few gave Scotland a chance.

Ireland dominated possession and territory throughout the game, especially in the first half and should have scored a number of tries, but it was costly ball han-

dling mistakes that cost them vital points.

The brave Scots digging deep, combined with a stubborn defensive attitude, frustrated the Irish players. Irish fly half Paddy Jackson who has been in great form for Ulster this season, struggled and missed crucial penalties. Nevertheless Scotland’s Greig Laidlaw took his four penalties brilliantly and in the end Ireland run out of ideas. This was a fantastic win for everyone involved in the Scotland set-up. Let’s hope our form continues for the rest of the tournament.

Scotland 12 – 8 Ireland Sunday 24th February

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EDINBURGH BIZ MARCH 2013 27

A h e m...

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28

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY Make your mum feel special this Mother’s Day and treat her to a delicious 2 or 3 course meal from our specially created Mother’s Day Menu.

There’s always a warm welcome guaranteed at The Clovenfords Hotel.

Situated in the village of Clovenfords in the heart of the Borders with Edinburgh only a 40 minute drive.

We pride ourselves on our food – we use only quality, locally sourced produce and offer a wide ranging menu with dishes to suit all tastes. We have a cosy bar with open fire, a family friendly lounge bar and our Vineyard conservatory restaurant.

MOTHER’s DAY Sun 10th March We have a special Mother’s Day 2 or 3 course set menu. Spoil your mum with a delicious treat and a day out with the family.

SUNDAY CARVERY 12-4pm every Sunday We serve 4 roasts, tender beef, honey & mustard glazed gammon, pork and turkey, all slow-cooked to perfection. All you can eat freshly prepared vegetables, roast potatoes & boiled potatoes.

The Clovenfords Hotel has all the character, warmth and friendly charm you would expect from an 18th century coaching inn.

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