West End 2 - April/May 2019

West End 2

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Issue 140

Apr-May‘19

A gazette magazine

Hazlehead | Queens Cross | Mannofield

Successfully introducing local people - local businesses since 2005

admissions@rgc.aberdeen.sch.uk +44 (0)1224 646346 www.rgc.aberdeen.sch.uk/nursery Charity No. SC000123

Disclaimer :

Whilst we’d be flattered if you would like to borrow something from the gazette be polite and ask first! Thank you. We try our hardest to ensure accuracy of editorial content but no responsibility can be taken for any errors and/or omissions. The views expressed within the gazette are not necessarily those of the publisher or advertisers.

When replying to offers, competitions and other correspondence, we would strongly recommend that you check published information with each organisation beforehand. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. We thank you for taking the time to read the small print.

the three magazines are delivered to : 12000 letterboxes in Airyhall, Ashley, Bieldside, Braeside, Broomhill, Countesswells, Craigiebuckler, Cults, Holburn, Kepplestone Houses, Mannofield, Morningside, Queens Cross, Rubislaw, Seafield, Viewfield, Woodland at Pitfodels, Woodend bi-monthly [6000 West End 1/6000 West End 2] 2000 Kingswells Community News

April...

Hopefully no showers but lovely sunshine like last year! The three winners from the competition last issue were R McCallan, E Cartney and E Smyth, I do hope you enjoyed the performance of Midsummer Night’s Dream.

There is no competition this month but plenty things for you to go and try. Why not kick off with the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra on 27 April, have a shot at bowling on 19 May at Seafield, leading onto the Mayfest for all the family 24-26 May and topping it off with an animal blessing at Craigiebuckler in June.

I am looking for some delivery people for Seafield, Angusfield, Rubislaw Den and a couple of routes in Cults and Bieldside - if you can spare some time once every other month then drop me an email - mail@gazettemagazines.com.

Go top up your cuppa and see what else is happening within the pages of the Apr/May issue. Until next time, Sue x

independent publisher : Sue Gregory All enquiries : mobile :

01383 279 355 email : mail@ gazettemagazines.com www.gazettemagazines.com

20 May 20 July 20 Sept 20 Nov 20 Jan 20 Mar

(June-July edition) (Aug-Sept edition) (Oct-Nov edition) (Dec-Jan edition) (Feb-Mar edition) (Apr-May edition)

Gutter Cleaning Service (Scotland) We are based in Aberdeen and can clean your gutters from the safety of ground level, therefore avoiding the dangerous hazards of working from a ladder and avoiding the need for expensive and time consuming scaffold.

We can remove small to large blockages including dirt, weeds and moss We show all work that has been carried out via our GutterSpy camera, before and after For a free non obligation quote or advice, please contact us and we try and help you

Tel: 01224 646912 Text: 07712 185946 www.gcsscotland.com Email: sales@gcsscotland.com

The Perfect Pear!

They may look a little underwhelming with their crinkly green skin, but avocado-lovers know that the fresh creamy flesh is simply delicious and a perfect complement to eggs, smoked bacon, griddled chicken...I could go on.

The avocado pear turns out not to be a pear at all, but a berry.

It also turns out to be pretty much the perfect food.

They have a reputation for being ‘bad’ and high in calories.

It’s true that a medium-sized avocado contains 30g of fat (as much as a quarter-pound burger!) but an avocado’s fat is mostly monounsaturated fat (that’s the good kind).

Studies have shown that avocado eaters are less at risk for metabolic syndrome, which also puts them at less risk of type-2 diabetes and heart attacks.

Avocados contain folate, an important nutrient for pregnant women and infants, and interestingly have also been shown to slow and possibly reverse memory loss in Alzheimer’s patients.

If you are weaning your baby,

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avocados are a great first food because of their soft texture, and nutritional benefits, like healthy fats for brain development.

Avocados are high in carotenoids so offer skin protection against aging caused by UV damage.

They also have antiinflammatory properties, which is good for people with rheumatoid arthritis but also because inflammation has been linked to Alzheimer’s, heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, and cancer.

So, check out the avocados on the supermarket shelf, and treat yourself to some green ‘n’ creamy goodness.

By Kath McLean

LEARN ITALIAN Why not join an Italian Class in Cults - Aberdeen?

You can choose day or evening classes: Beginner to Advanced level. The following classes are scheduled at present: Tues 9.30 – 11.30 am Advanced Tues 3.00 – 5.00 pm Beginners (New Class 1st Oct ‘19) Tues 7.30 – 9.30 pm Pre Intermediate Wed 2.00 – 4.00 pm Pre Intermediate Thurs 9.30 – 11.30 am Post Intermediate Thurs 1.45 - 2.45 pm Post Beginners Fri 9.30 – 11.30 am Intermediate Fri 2.00 – 4.00 pm Pre Intermediate Individual lessons are also available.

For information about these classes and also summer sessions and tours in Italy contact Encrica Conti:

tel: 07786 827714 email: encoit@talktalk.net wwwitalianlanguageaberdeen.co.uk

Care @ Home Aberdeen Nursing Agency provides the highest quality of care, leading the field in customer service. We believe that care matters and we are committed to providing the highest quality Homecare across Aberdeenshire so that customers can remain in their own home.

What makes our homecare services different is that we put you first. We aim to provide you with the same standard of care that we would expect for our own families. This means offering a bespoke service to each of our customers.

We offer flexible homecare and support services tailored exactly to your care needs. These could be anything from a 1 Hour visit to 24 hour live in care. Whatever your needs, our dedicated team are happy to talk to you about your requirements.

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Personal Care Night settling 24 Hour care Respite Care Hospital discharge Meal assistance Appointments Social outings Befriending Laundry Light domestic duties

T: 01224 542542 • E: info@aberdeennursingagency.co.uk www.aberdeennursingagency.co.uk

What is Reiki?

Reiki is a form of complementary therapy commonly referred to as energy healing. It has been around for thousands of years but it’s current form was first developed in 1922 by a Japanese Buddhist called Mikao Usui. It is said to involve the transfer of universal energy from the practitioner’s palms to their patient.

Some controversy surrounds Reiki, because it is hard to prove its effectiveness through scientific means. But many people believe it works.

The word ‘Reiki’ means ‘mysterious atmosphere, miraculous sign.’ It comes from the Japanese words ‘rei’ (universal) and ‘ki’ (life energy).

The idea of Reiki is that is channels energy from the practitioner to target and work on the energy channels of the patient. According to practitioners, energy can stagnate in the body where there has been physical injury or emotional pain. If not released these these energy blocks can cause illness. By improving the flow of energy around the body, practitioners say they can enable relaxation, reduce pain, and speed healing.

Reiki is held in a peaceful setting. The patient will remain fully clothed, and sit in a comfortable chair, or lie on a table. The practitioner places their hands lightly on or over specific areas of the head, limbs, and torso using different hand shapes, for between 2 and 5 minutes. The hands can be placed over 20 different areas of the body. If there is an active injury, the hands may be held just above the wound.

The transfer of energy takes place while the hands are held over the patient.

During this time, the practitioner’s hands may be warm and tingling.

Each hand position is held until the practitioner senses that the energy has stopped flowing.When the practitioner feels that the heat, or energy, in their hands has abated, they will remove

their hands and place them over a different area of the body.

Sessions can last 15-90 minutes. The number of sessions will vary, depending on what a client wishes to accomplish.

According to practitioners, the healing effects are mediated by channeling the universal energy known as qi, pronounced ‘chi.’ It is the life force energy that some people believe surrounds all of us. Reiki experts say that while this energy is not measurable by modern scientific techniques, it can be felt by those who can tune in to it.

Reiki is said to induce deep relaxation, help people cope with difficulties, relieve emotional stress, and improve overall wellbeing. People who love Reiki describe it as ‘intensely relaxing.’

Reiki is used to help treat many conditions including: cancer, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain.

Patients report feeling better after a session.

Research from Cancer Research U.K. says that one reason could be that the therapist spends time with them and touches them. This is soothing for patients who may be overwhelmed by invasive therapy, fear, and stress.

Individuals report different experiences. Some say that the practitioner’s hands become hot, others report cooling hands and some people feel pulsating waves. The most common reports are of a release

By Louise Addison

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9

How to Wake-up Refreshed Do you spring out of bed each morning with the bright eyes and energy of a five-year-old on Christmas morning? No, me neither.

But there are a few tips which might help: Get enough sleep – It’s so obvious it actually does need stating: most of us do not get anywhere near enough sleep. Sleep needs vary from person to person, but most of us need at least eight hours uninterrupted shut-eye. I haven’t slept like that since my children were born, and the oldest is now eight!

Make your room dark and quiet – Too much extraneous light and noise is not conducive to good sleep. Invest in thick curtains or a sleep mask if light is an issue and soft earplugs if your neighbour has noisy dogs or a twitchy car alarm.

Renew your mattress – Mattresses do not last forever. They become saggy and less supportive with age, which makes us fidget and interferes with the quality of our sleep. A good mattress should support your spine and allow your body to relax totally.

Have a bath – Yes really. A soak before bed will relax your muscles and calm your mind. Lavender bath products are especially good at inducing sleep.

Clear your head – It’s difficult to sleep if your head is still whirring from the events of the day.

Concentrate on your breathing and allow thoughts to float away. Anything you are dealing with will still be there tomorrow and you’ll cope better if you’ve had a good night’s sleep.

By Louise Addison

Pushing Out the Boat Issue 15 has landed!

Launched at Newton Dee on 7 April, the latest edition of North-East Scotland’s unique magazine of new writing and visual arts boasts an array of inspiring work by talented writers and artists, from far away and ‘just aroon the corner’.

Within its pages 'nd humour, pathos and drama in Doric, Scots and English, next to stimulating works of art.

Read about POTB and where to buy your own copy at http://www.pushingouttheboat.co.uk.

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Guess who is stocking Mulberry frames?

Mulberry, an iconic British fashion brand officially launched its Eyewear range at London Fashion Week, earlier this year.

Scott Gilmour Optometrists are delighted to announce frames are now available at their practice in Cults.

Each and every Mulberry frame can be strongly recognised thanks to its distinctive detailing and precious quality. Mulberry eyewear is a marriage in which form, light and colour are shaped by the skillful hands of master craftsmen, using state of the art production processes.

Interesting fact... Mulberry’s founder, Roger Saul, established the brand at his kitchen table in 1971, with £500 backing from his mother. His sister designed the instantly recognisable tree logo - both that, and the name “Mulberry” come from the trees he would pass each day on his way to school.

Professional eye care for all the family at Scott Gilmour Optometrists, 5 The Courtyard, North Deeside Road, Cults, AB15 9SD Telephone 01224 863344 Email : info@sgoptom.co.uk www.scottgilmouroptometrists.co.uk Free parking available too.

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11

Chocolate Fondant Tart Preparation time: 45 mins (plus chilling time) Cooking time: 30 mins Serves: 6-8 Ingredients Pastry 100g/3½oz plain flour 50g/1¾oz icing sugar 50g/1¾oz chilled butter, diced Yolk from 1 large egg 1 tbsp water Filling 100g/3½oz butter 150g/5½oz dark chocolate (70%) 150g/5½oz golden caster sugar 75g/3oz plain flour 6 medium eggs To serve Icing sugar Strawberries or raspberries Cream

You now need to blind-bake the pastry. To do this prick the base of the pastry with a fork then line the pastry case with a circle of greaseproof paper and fill with baking beans (these are ceramic beads, but you can use lentils or dried beans if you don’t have any). Bake the pastry for 10 minutes, or until just lightly golden-brown, then remove the paper and the beans and return the tart to the oven to cook for a further 5-7 minutes, or until golden-brown and dried out.

For the filling Melt the butter in a medium pan over a low heat, then add the chocolate and stir until melted, smooth and glossy. Remove from the heat and beat in the sugar and flour, then beat in the eggs, one at a time.

Place the pastry case on a baking tray. Pour the chocolate mixture into the pastry case, filling it almost to the top then place in the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until just set around the edges and still slightly wobbly in the centre.

Remove from the oven. You can serve it warm with raspberries or strawberries, or allow it to cool and dust with icing sugar.

Method For the pastry Place the flour and icing sugar in a large bowl.

Rub in the butter with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.

Add the egg yolk and water and mix quickly so that it comes together to form a firm dough. Wrap in cling film and leave to rest in the fridge for about 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 200C/ Gas 6 (180C fan).

Dust the work surface with flour and then roll out the pastry to form a circle about 5cm/2in larger than your flan tin. Line the tin with the pastry. Pop it into the fridge to chill for a further 15 minutes.

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A

berdeen jazz singer Jill Torvaney will launch her 3rd album “Brief Encounters” on April 7th at The Blue Lamp.

The original songs are inspired by the great songwriters of the last century and draw on themes such as romance and chance meeting. Renowned guitarist Graeme Stephen features on the album. The single “Serendipity” is available online.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xy7bh4_Q4gQ

Jill has been active as a jazz singer and composer for the past decade, and is looking forward to showcasing the new album’s material in forthcoming gigs. The album will be available on ITunes, Amazon, and other similar platforms. CDs are available at gigs and select outlets throughout the Aberdeen area.

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The tasks performed would typically include normal household cleaning duties such as vacuuming, dusting, washing down paintwork, cleaning toilets and bathrooms (and depending on area) ironing.

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13

Why do we Love a Superhero?

The Hancock household is eagerly awaiting the release of Avengers: Endgame (current release date April 26th). It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say my entire family are hooked on the whole superhero genre.

And we’re not alone. All over the country there are regular debates about whether Superman would beat Thor in a fight, or why Iron Man is two words while Batman is only one.

Our kids dress up like them and carry packed lunches in plastic boxes emblazoned with their images (actually some adults do this too.) But why?

According to recent research from Kyoto University in Japan, our love of superheroes starts before we can talk. In a series of experiments, infants as young as six months were shown short animations in which one figure chased and bumped into a second.

Meanwhile, a third figure watched from afar. In version A, the third figure steps in and prevents the collision, while in version B it runs away without intervening.

After watching the clips, the infants were presented with replicas of both the intervening and the non-intervening third figures. They consistently preferred the one who saved the day. These results suggest that babies are capable of understanding and recognising heroism.

Further experiments showed that extremely young babies couldn’t tell the difference

between a saviour who was simply in the right place at the right time, and one who actively stepped in to help. They didn’t grasp the nuances. But by just 18 months old they did understand that difference and preferred the hero. This suggests that our concept of justice, and heroism develops very early on.

As we grow up superhero stories seem to resonate with us. We identify with the themes, with the dilemmas and problems that superheroes face, and we aspire to their noble impulses and heroic acts. We identify with them because often they are created in our image, albeit a larger than life version of that image.

It helps that most superheroes are flawed.

They are not bloodless examples of ‘goodness and virtue’ but real individuals who are prey to their emotions and environment yet who strive to overcome their foibles and triumph anyway.

Some characters like Batman and Iron Man have overcome trauma to become superheroes. In psychology this is called post-traumatic growth and it gives us hope that we too can overcome difficulties in our lives and become stronger people.

There is something both empowering and uplifting about watching your favourite superhero emerge victorious at the end of a story, which is why I will be queuing at the cinema on April 26th with Mrs. Hancock and all the little Hancocks. See you there.

By Tom Hancock

18 Years of Alison’s Football 18 years ago Alison McLeod After School Football started at Kingswells Community Centre. At first there were only P1-3 classes, but soon afterwards I became the first person to run pre-school football in Aberdeen. The fees were obviously a lot less - £1 a session!!

The main difference now is of course social media. Very few people phone to book places, it’s all either Facebook or email. Also, when I first started I took one photo of the children at the end of the year and now I take a couple of videos a term. It is also a lot easier to have contact with parents – 18 years ago we just had the house phone!

It has been a great 18 years with some very talented children coming to classes. These photos are some of the boys from the very first class I ever had and include: Andrew McLeod, Chris Sibbald, Grant Peddie, Ross Milne, Ross MacDonald, Andrew Plenderleith, www.aberdeenfootballfun.co.uk Blair Sutherland, Shaun Press and Andrew Coull.

BOOK AN EIGHTH Single Issue £36 Three Issue £97.20 Six Issues £183.60

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Seven Reasons to Join a Gym Today Health benefits – Regular exercise has been proven to reduce your risk of cancer, osteoporosis, diabetes, and heart disease. It’s also been proven to increase your good blood cholesterol and improve mental health.

Stronger mind – Exercise actually increases brain function. Because it improves the flow of blood to your brain it helps the brain remain healthy, increasing the ability to grow new nerve fibres and replace damaged ones, thus reducing your risk of Alzheimer’s.

Weight management – Exercise helps to burn unwanted fat and increase muscle mass, helping you control your weight and maintain it at a healthy level.

Motivation – Committing to a regular workout is not easy. And sometimes when we don’t get quick results, we tend to give up. At a gym you will see and meet people like you, slowly building towards their goal. That sense of being part of a like-minded community is very motivating.

Socialising – Some of those people you nod and smile at in the gym will go on to become friends. The gym is an excellent place to hang out with people whose goals are aligned with yours.

Uninterrupted workout routine – While your running or cycling routine might be interrupted by the weather, if you’re a gym member you can simply rock up there and exercise all year long.

Professional guidance – Good gyms have well-trained professional staff who can instruct you how to use equipment safely and give advice about technique and nutrition.

So, there’s no excuse. Pop along to your local gym today and start reaping the benefits of regular exercise.

By Louise Addison

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17

Collections About a third of people in the UK own a collection. From water colour miniatures to novelty pens, people like to collect things - but why? Well there isn’t one reason. For some, like football fans who collect club memorabilia, it is a way to express their loyalty; for others, like a coin collector who is proud of a rare find, it can become an obsession. You don’t even have to collect something physical: train spotters collect engine numbers and information.

Humans are unique in the way we collect items purely for the satisfaction of seeking out and owning them. It’s thought that we started to collect things as early as 12,000 years ago, when our ancestors ceased their nomadic lifestyles and settled in one location. There is much speculation about why we collect, yet little agreement between scientists.

BOOK AN EIGHTH

It’s true some people collect items like fine art or wine as investments, but the vast majority of collections are not actually worth a lot.

There are a couple of interesting theories.

One is a phenomenon called the endowment effect, which describes our tendency to value things more once we own them. The other is the concept of contagion, and this applies particularly to celebrity items because some collectors see such objects as being infused with the essence of the person who owned them.

Collecting can be an absorbing and fun hobby, and can be a good way to make likeminded friends. There are online communities for chatting about your collection. There are also be meet-ups where you can swap or buy additions.

To start a collection choose something that is meaningful to you and works with your budget. I have one friend who collects silly limericks, which cost her nothing, and another who collects aesthetically pleasing glass objects, which can set her back several hundred pounds. Both get great pleasure from their hobby. The choice of things to collect is limitless…so what are you waiting for?

By Sarah Davey

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The oil and gas downturn in the local area has created a significant amount of stress and anxiety, which sets the scene for this type of anxiety disorder. This is characterized by anxiety that bubbles away under the surface and isn’t visible to other people. Many people with High Functioning Anxiety continue to perform well at work and also appear “normal” in their home and social lives. Eventually, the underlying anxiety reaches a tipping point.

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Garden View Blooming Baskets!

It’s hanging basket season! They can be a source of delight but also a source of stress. I t’s easy for a hanging basket to fail badly. Too sparsely filled and they look bedraggled. Too little water and death is swift!

The secret to growing a successful basket lays both in the way it’s planted but also in sensible aftercare.

Plant the basket with bedding plants at the beginning of May but don’t plant them out for a couple of weeks, especially if you live in a more exposed area. Instead give them some shelter in a porch, or unheated greenhouse, or even under polythene at the side of the house.

This allows the new plants to grow and toughen up a little before they are hung in their final position.

Check that your bracket and chains for signs of rust and also check that the bracket is securely fixed to the wall. Hanging baskets are extremely heavy, especially when they are wet and you really don’t want your lovingly-planted orb of flowers to be deposited unceremoniously all over the floor!

Planting is easiest if you balance the basket on a large flowerpot or bucket. Fibrous liners help to retain water and look nicer than polythene. For extra moisture retention place a circle of polythene in the base of the basket before filling with soil.

The best planting medium is soilless multi-purpose compost, mixed with water-retaining granules. Place a layer of compost in the base of the basket and push the first layer of plants through. Trailing plants such as lobelia, bidens and ivy-leafed pelargoniums look lovely but you can be as creative as you like. Water the plants in their containers before planting them and squeeze the rootball firmly to make it small enough to push though the mesh from the outside. Plant quite densely and gradually build up layers of plants and soil. When it’s full to within 3 cm of the rim you can plant up the top with more upright, compact bushy plants like begonias, petunias and pelargoniums.

Make sure your basket never dries out. It will be reliant on you for all water and nutrition. If you water it at least once a day and feed with dilute tomato fertilizer once a week I promise it will be a blooming basket in the best possible way.

Happy gardening

By Rachael Leverton

Read Right!

Could your child benefit from a binocular vision exam?

When Sarah’s 10-year-old daughter complained of headaches after school, she did what any sensible parent would do and booked an eye test. After a 15-minute exam she was told that Maisie did not need any glasses and that there was nothing wrong with her.

After a few months, Maisie’s symptoms hadn’t disappeared, and her grades were suffering.

“She didn’t want to read and was falling behind in class.”

Sarah took her back to the optician, who this time gave Maisie some glasses.

“She wore them for a couple of weeks but gave up after that as they weren’t helping, in fact she

said that they made things worse for seeing the whiteboard.”

Sarah’s friend advised her to take Maisie to see the optometrist who had helped her son when he had struggled with similar issues.

“Immediately I could see that this was a different kind of eye exam.” We didn’t feel rushed. The optometrist was really interested the type of difficulties Maisie was experiencing, when they happened, and how she coped with them. She performed a whole battery of tests and explained everything as she was going along. She told us that Maisie was having difficulty co-ordinating her eyes so was having to put in more effort to ‘see’, and as she became more tired with the effort of school and study, it became harder and harder for her to keep up the co-ordination, so she just gave up. It all made sense. She’d come home grouchy, rubbing her eyes and with a headache. It was all too much for her.”

Optometrists who specialise in what is known as Behavioural Optometry, or who run

specialist binocular vision clinics understand that an eye examination should be about more than whether a child can read the bottom line of a chart some distance away.

In a classroom eyes need work as a team at all distances. They should be able to point accurately at the same point on a page, then be able to refocus quickly and accurately on the whiteboard and back again, hundreds of times per day. They need to be able scan across lines of text without drifting off to another line. If eyes can’t work as a team, children might try for a while but often develop unhelpful coping mechanisms like turning their head, screwing their eyes up, and excessive blinking. Eventually they give up and may become disenfranchised from learning.

Some groups of children, like those with dyslexia, or those with underlying health conditions are more susceptible to the binocular vision system malfunctioning.

Binocular vision examinations measure the ability of the child’s eyes to work together, and then the optometrist can make helpful suggestions, such as glasses, or exercises (sometimes called vision therapy), or a mixture of both. Occasionally coloured overlays might prove useful too.

Unfortunately, these types of examination are not available on the NHS, but Sarah says that her money was well spent. “Maisie had some new glasses and a short course of exercises. Within weeks her grades had picked up and she was coming home more cheerful and with no headaches. I would recommend that all parents should take their child for a specialist eye examination if they feel something is wrong.”

Useful websites: babo.co.uk

By Kath McLean

Professional eye care for all the family

5 The Courtyard, North Deeside Road, Cults, Aberdeen AB15 9SD T: 01224 863344 E: info@sgoptom.co.uk www.scottgilmouroptometrists.co.uk FREE PARKING AVAILABLE

Do you need general garden maintenance?

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Sam : 07947 640 147

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CLUBS & CLASSES Gordonians Hockey Club - Youth Coaching

RUGBYTOTS ABERDEEN

Classes weekly – age 2 to 7 [Free Taster Sessions Available] Banchory AM – Saturday Airyhall - AM Sunday Craigiebuckler - AM Sun

Westhill - AM Sunday Cults - AM Wed/PM Thurs

For more information contact : aberdeen@rugbytots.co.uk or www.rugbytots.co.uk

LIST YOUR CLASS - FREE Basic Info only Name of Class: Day: Time: Where: Contact: (30 words) Over 30 then there is a small charge and will be a boxed ad like this £36 per year for all 3 mags...

Send an email: mail@gazettemagazines.com subject : Clubs/Classes Aberdeen Buchan Association Fortnightly on Wed evenings at Craigiebuckler Church Hall Sept till Apr Gladys Lamb Secretary 01224 723722 Aberdeen Choral Society Mon at 7.30pm Queens Cross Church Hall. www.aberdeenchoral.org.uk Aberdeen Chorus of Sweet Adelines International - Mon evening from 7 -10pm at Curl Aberdeen, Eday Walk Aberdeen & County Floral Group 2nd Wed of month, 7.15pm, Rubislaw Church Centre. www.acfg.co.uk Aberdeen & District RSPB Local Group A friendly group enthusiastic about the wildlife of the NE www.rspb.org.uk/groups/aberdeen Aberdeen Diocesan Choir Tues 7.30 - 9pm Upper Hall, St Mary’s Cathedral, Huntly St enquiriesADC@hotmail.com wwwaberdeendiocesanchoir.com/ Aberdeen Italian Circle Thurs (every 2/3 weeks) 7.15 pm Rubislaw Church Centre, Beaconsfield Pl abital@btinternet.com 01224 635792 Aberdeen Embroiderers’ Guild First Sat of month in Rubislaw Church Centre, Beaconsfield Place. Workshop 10 – 12.00 Meeting at 2pm. 07809557617.

from 27/28 Aug until late May - Children attending any school Copper Squad (typically age 6-7) TueS - 5.45 - 6.45pm Bronze Squad (typically age 8-9) TueS - 5.45 - 7.00pm Silver Squad (typically 10-11) - TueS 5.45 - 7.00pm Gold Squad (typically 12-13) - Mon 5.45 - 7.00pm £80 for the entire season (family discounts apply) RGC Astroturf pitches, Countesswells Road, AB15 8AR Contact John Mowat tel: 07525 811 039

Grampian Woodturners

Last Sun of each month (except Dec) at 2pm St Devenick’s Church Hall, Bieldside.

Experienced turners and novices are all welcome and training is available. Contact: (01651) 863 007 e: themackay@gmail.com www.grampianwoodturners.co.uk

Aberdeen Model Railway Club Wed 7-10pm Ferryhill heritage center Info@aberdeenmrc.co.uk

Airyhall Ramblers Group Every 2nd Wednesday @ Countesswells Rd 9.15am Contact 07472686889

Aberdeen Orpheus Choir Wed at 7.15 p.m. Hall of Crown Terrace Baptist Church, Windmill Lane Info: Jane Murray on 07967926758.

Association of American Women of Aberdeen (AWA) Open to women of all nationalities. For info awaaberdeen.org

Aberdeen Philatelic Society Thurs, fortnightly fm 7.30pm Rubislaw Church Centre Beaconsfield Pl. seafield28@gmail.com www.aberdeenphilatelic.org.uk

Babies & Toddlers Fri 10 - 11.30 term time Gilcomston Church Contact: Gayle Veitch, gayle.veitch@gmail.com or Rosie McKie, 01224 647144

Aberdeen Pilates Man Wed Mixed Ability Classes 6-7pm Ferryhill CC T: 07557352805.

Banchory Clay pigeon Shooting Syndicate Contact Dick Bridger 01330850362 or Peter Hopkins 01330850585

Aberdeen Round Table First Tues every month at 7.30pm (Cults Hotel) www.roundtable.co.uk.

Aberdeen Strathspey & Reel Society MON Jnr Orchestra 6.30-7.30pm, Snr 7.30-9.00pm Hazlehead Primary 01224 676482, info@aberdeenstrathspey. org.uk / www.aberdeenstrathspey.org.uk Aberdeen Velodees: Women only cycling group. Wed https:// www.facebook.com/groups/Velodees/ or email velodees@gmail.com for more info.

After School Football - Alison McLeod Classes at Airyhall + Kingswells for pre school children up to age 6 www.aberdeenfootballfun.co.uk

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Barney’s Ballroom Mon, 7-8pm + 8.15-9.15pm Fri 7-8pm & 8-9pm Cults Cults Sports Complex AB15 9TP 07342 789 965 Barre Fitness classes Mon 10-11am, Granville Lane Scout Hut, Tues at Mile End Primary 6-7pm FrI 5 & 5.30pm at Fitness & Wellbeing Development c.chernouski@yahoo.co.uk Beginners Ashtanga Yoga Mon 6.30 - 7.30 & 7.30 -8.30 (snrs). £7 Cults Kirk Centre Hub Simone 07985 384402 / email Simone.barnett@sky.com

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25

CLUBS & CLASSES

Ceilidh class 1st & 3rd Tues of month 7:30 9:00pm at South St Nicholas Church Kincorth. Contact 01224 636128 or email: aberdeenrscds@hotmail.co.uk

Childrens Highland Dancing Lessons Day: Various Craigiebuckler,Holborn West, City Centre and Cults 07972104774 sinclairhighlanddancing@gmail.com Clubbercise with Jessica Tues 8:30-9:30pm at Airyhall community Centre. Facebook page Clubbercise Jessica Aberdeen. 07725672678 Concordia String Orchestra Tues 7.30-9.30pm Ferryhill Parish Church www.concordiastringorchestra. org.uk CTC Grampian Local group of the Cycling Touring Club.

All abilities & ages John B, Chairman, Tel: 01224 571984. www.ctcgrampian.org.uk

Franco-Scottish Society, Aberdeen Monthly Tues 7.30pm Albyn School, between Oct & May. www.francoscottish.org.uk/ 01224 590903.

Friskis&Svettis Jympa WED 7-8pm Airyhall Community Centre Contact Jackie Tel 01224 713705 Friskis & Svettis Jympa Tues 7.30 - 8.30pm Airyhall Community Centre Katie 01224 981474/07889011337 or email info@fsaberdeen.co.uk Granite City Chorus Scotland’s leading male barbershop chorus Tues 7.00- 9.45pm Woodside Church Hall www.granitecitychorus.co.uk

Granite City Guerrillas Dodgeball Team 16+ Mon 8–10pm The Jesmond Sports Centre, (Mixed) Wed 8.30–10pm The Danestone CC, B of D (Ladies) www. facebook.com/thegranitecityguerrillas

Jazzercise aerobic classes, Broomhill Activity Centre Mon, Tues & Wed 6.15pm Thurs 5.25pm Sat 9.30am Judy 07757216968 or jazzercisejudy@gmail.com JKA Aberdeen Karate Tues & Thurs (all grades) 7pm Kincorth Sports Centre 01224 826174 Alan@ karatedoshotokan-scotland.com JKA Aberdeen Tiger Cubs Thurs 5 - 7 year olds Kincorth Sports Centre 07762 560630 or 01330 833688 Kaimhill Strollers Thurs 9.15 over 50s Community Wing of Kaimhill School. Cost £4 iContact Dick on 01224 782109 or Doris on 01224 316775.

Kaimhill Yoga Group Wed 9.15-10.15am. Kaimhill Learning Centre, Pitmedden Terr AB10 7HR.

Cults Bridge Club Mon 6.45pm from Oct to Mar at Cults Bowling Club. Joan 01224 310752.

Granite City Scottish Women’s Institute 4th Wed of month 7-9pm (Sept to June).

Ruthrieston CC 532-536 Holburn St Abdn Tel the secretary 01224 587590

Lively Minds Group Tues: 1st & 3rd of month 12– 2 p.m.

Sandwich lunch & interesting speaker. £5 per session Contact :-office@ queen’scrosschurch.org.uk

Culter & District Pipe Band Mon/Wed 7.30-9pm Culter Village Church Piping & Drumming, all levels Tel: Susan 07540 530705

Hatha Yoga Mon 9:15-10:15, Wed 1-2pm & Thur 7-8pm at Ferryhill CC Contact Verity 07796915716 www.v-yoga.co.uk

Lunch Club Tues school term 12.30 pm. Ferryhill Parish Church hall. Two course meal with tea or coffee for £4.00. Over 50’s.

DanceYoga Mon 8pm at Rubislaw Church Centre 07470449331 Hannah Nordlund www. facebook.com/DanceYogaAberdeen hi@ healthierwithhannah.co.uk

Hatha Yoga WED 1930-2030h Bring a mat.

Ruthrieston CC Holburn St Abdn TMCYogaUK@gmail.com

Mainly Music at Aberdeen Christian Fellowship Thurs 10-11.30am. Contact Pamela Maclure on 07773 724558

Dru Yoga Tues 7.30pm in Jubilee Hall, South Holburn Church. Thurs 10am in Girlguiding, Thistle Lane. Ester 07757 304879 or druyoga.ester@gmail.com Fitness with Laura Day Mon - 6-7pm Inchgarth CC Wed - 6.157.15pm Tullos Primary Fri - 10-11am Inchgarth CC Facebook fitnesswithlaura or 07739181345.

Flying Yogis Classes 3-5 Years Mon 9:30-10am, Wed 1:30-2pm Kingswells CC Contact Emma Dawrant 07789558865 or www. facebook.com/emmaflyingyogis

26

Hatha Yoga Tues 6-7pm & Fri 9:30-10:30. 8A Gaelic Lane, AB10 1JF. E: shanna@ academyofexpressivearts.com / 01224 467707 Hatha Yoga Thurs 9:30-10:30 am - Ashley Rd Abdn £7 Info : Adriana 07799845716 Italian Classes in Cults (Aberdeen) Tel. 07786827714 encoit@talktalk.net www.italianlanguageaberdeen.co.uk

Mainly Music at Gilcomston Wed 10-11.30 term time Gilcomston Church e: katrinamrose@hotmail.co.uk or Rosie McKie, 01224 647144 Mango Choir (mainly Gospel style) Mon, Sept- Apr 6:30-7:30 at Mannofield Church Alistair Stark, 01224 318536, mail@agstark.co.uk Mannofield Parent & Toddler Group Mon & Fri 10-1130 @ Mannofield Church Facebook Group - Mannofield Parent & Toddlers Metafit - Metabolic HIIT Workout.

Wed 8:15-8:45pm, Mannofield Church.

Facebook @Metafit With Gemma. Tel 07793 431578

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Metafit with Helen Mon 7.25-7.55pm Airyhall CC Tues 5.30-6pm Ferryhill CC. helenewen1@ btinternet.com. 07736 247911. Metafittraining.com Monday Club Mon 10am-12 pm. Drop in group for adults with additional needs & their carers. Contact:- office@ queen’scrosschurch.org.uk Morven Singers Wed 5th Sept 7.30pm Ruthrieston West Church Hall, Broomhill Rd. 3 part mixed choir, Contact Lesley 01224 315079 MummyFITT. Fri at Cults parish church main hall on quarry rd. Contact kirsty167@hotmail. com/ 07487574632 / www.facebook. com/mummyFITT Musical Connections 1st & 3rd Mon of month 2-3.30pm. The group is for adults living with dementia and their carers . Contact:- office@ queen’scrosschurch.org.uk NCT Waddling to Toddling group Mon 10-11.30am - (frm birth to preschool) St Francis of Assisi Church, Deesdie Gdns, Mannofield. parentsupport.aberdeen@nct.org.uk Northern Dance Club Mon at Jury’s Inn, Airport 7.30pm beginners, sequence and improvers starts £7.50 drop-in fee Rhythm Time Multisensory Music Ruthrieston West Church Tues: 9.45am, 14mnths - 3yrs + 10.25am & 11.05am 0 - 12 mnths Fri: 9.30am & 10.10am 14mnths - 3yrs 10.50am 0 - 12mnths Scottish Country Dancing Summer Socials Wed 01 May - 28 Aug at Curl Aberdeen, 7:30 - 9:45 aberdeenrscds@hotmail.co.uk or 01224 636128 Scottish Country Dancing -Children St Joseph’s, Kingsford, Braehead, Craigiebuckler or City Moves Sat am. aberdeenrscds@hotmail.co.uk or 01224 636128

CLUBS & CLASSES

Seafield Walking Group (+50 Group) Alternate WED’s leaving 9.15am fm Countesswells Ave, Coach transport kate.graham13@btinternet.com

Silver City Singers Mon 7.20 - 9.30pm TOBY Carvery, Cocket Hat, Nth Anderson Dr AB15 6DW www.silvercitysingers.com Tai Chi (Taijiquan) & Health Qigong (Chi Kung) Mon 11-12 Rubislaw Church Centre, 7-8pm & 8-9pm Unitarian Church Thurs 9:45-10:45 Catherine St CC ruyischool. mk@gmail.com www.ruyischool.com The 123 Group Thurs 2-4 at Craigiebuckler Church, email - the123group@yahoo.com.

The Arts Society Grampian 2nd Wed of month at Sir Ian Wood Building, RGU, 7.30pm. 01224 311417 https://theartssociety.org/grampian.

The Braeside Singers Tues 6.30 to 8.00pm at Airyhall Library.

Info : audreyharvey@talktalk.net.

The Fly Cup Thurs 10- 12. Informal group - people who would enjoy a bit of company, meet up over coffee & homebaking. office@ queen’scrosschurch.org.uk

Woodburn Walkers (+50 Group) 2nd Tues @ Hazlehead Park - Contact 01224 640882 / 01224 318075.

Yoga classes Tue 17.45-19.15 AYC, 8 Bon Accord Sq. Wed 10.15-11.45 & Thur 10.00-11.30 Queens Cross Church. 01224 648475 e: moira.chicometrics@gmail.com www.moirayogaaberdeen.co.uk Yoga classes Mon 9.30-11 am, & Tues 6.30-8 pm. Peterculter through Summer & Wed 6.30-8 pm South Holburn Church fionabochel@gmail.com & fionabochelyoga.wordpress.com

Yogatots Mon 3.40 - 4.10pm : P1-3; Wed 1.302.00pm : Pre-schoolers Wed 2.00-2.30pm Parent & child (2-1/2 to antepreschool) Airyhall CC Contact Jen: 07910 965741 Yoga with Deborah Thompson Wed 7-8pm. Tel: 07821704826, Cults Kirk Church Hall, Quarry Rd, Cults, deborahthompsonyoga@gmail.com Zumba with Sharon Wed 7.30 - 8.30 At Broomhill Activity Centre 197 Broomhill Rd AB10 7LN 07578299963 Shaggy225@hotmail.co.uk

The Mixing Bowl Aberdeen Monthly - term time at St Devenick’s church hall, Baillieswells Rd, Bieldside www.mixingbowlaberdeen.co.uk Thursday @ Mannofield Church 2nd Thurs - Fly Cup 2- 3.30pm £2.50 3rd Thurs - Lunch Club 1–3pm £5 Contact 01224 310087or email office@ mannofieldchurch.org.uk .

Visions Photography Club Thurs 7-9pm at Ruthreiston CC, Holburn St. visionsaberdeen@gmail.com or www.visionsphotographyclub.com Woodend Bridge Club Mon & Wed Evenings & Fri afternoons mid sept to mid april @ Woodend Bowling Club Chris Blunt 01224 317298

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27

Lifting the taboo on death planning Scotland’s first event dedicated to life and death planning is to be held at the Aberdeen Treetops in August 2019.

‘Dying Matters : Planning Ahead 2019’ aims to lift the taboo and encourage visitors to the event to talk to local and national experts about life and death planning such as end of life care, funeral arrangements and wealth management.

Gavin Esslemont of event organisers Etiom Events, comments “It was Benjamin Franklin who said, ‘Nothing is certain except for death and taxes’, yet death is such a taboo subject that no-one wants to talk about. Unfortunately, in most circumstances, unlike a wedding for example, you don’t get any notice. When your time is up, it’s up. And quite often, arrangements are left to distressed family and friends who have to make important decisions very quickly.

We have designed this event to make it easier for people to access experts that can support in planning ahead for life and death matters.”

Over forty industry experts will be on hand to discuss matters such as funerals, will-writing, palliative care, bereavement counselling, funeral officiants, wealth management and tax planning organisations.

Karen Farquhar, celebrant and co-founder of the event, comments “Most, if not all, of the clients that I meet on a daily basis to discuss a funeral service have so many questions that remain unanswered, yet are expected to make huge decisions whilst being in a distressed state.

They want to know what the difference is between a religious humanist and celebrant service, how much the funeral is going to cost, what happens if there is no will in place, inheritance tax, etc.. Dying Matters : Planning Ahead will help to answer these questions in a relaxed informal venue.”

Visitors to the event will be able to engage with exhibitors all day, attend seminars and leave being much more aware and in control of their life and death planning.

Further information on this event can be found at http://dyingmattersaberdeen.co.uk.

28

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Seafield Bowling Club

Cromwell Gardens, Aberdeen, AB15 4UF Email: seafieldbowls1@gmail.com

Are you interested in a sport that can offer you a summer with Friendship

An Enjoyable Hobby

Competition

Fun

Plus winter functions and activities We will welcome men, women and juniors (Coaching is available for beginners) More information from:A. Gill: 01224-699330 R. Yule: 01224-314887

We invite you to Come and Try Bowling OPEN FUN AFTERNOON Sunday 19th May, 2019 2.00 – 4.00 pm ALL WELCOME

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29

Beyoutiful readings from Spirit By Allie.

For you.

I am a psychic medium working with spirit to deliver beautiful messages from beyond.

I oer 1:1, group, phone or email readings.

Phone : 07813 091 752 FB : Beyoutiful readings from Spirit by Allie

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11/09/2018 11:36:15

Befriend a Child Charity Shop 27 Holburn Street, AB11 6DJ, Aberdeen

Annual Animal Blessing Service Craigiebuckler Church Springfield Road ABERDEEN

Sunday 2nd June At 3pm All animals with their human companions welcome

To donate goods or volunteer contact 01224 930173 or e-mail shop@befriendachild.org.uk

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Laughter is the best medicine.

Where is your nearest comedy club? Current research suggests it’s worth knowing where you can get a good laugh as it may improve your health.

Laughter is like a good massage - A good belly laugh relaxes the muscles for up to 45 minutes.

It lowers stress and wards off colds - Stress hormones take a toll on our bodies making it difficult for us to fight off illness. Studies suggest that laughing not only reduces levels of these hormones, it boosts the immune system. So dig out those old episodes of Father Ted or Dad’s Army!

It increases pain tolerance - According to neuroscientist Robert Provine, pain reduction is one of the biggest benefits of laughter. Studies have proved that those who watch or experience comedic content are able to tolerate more pain, probably due to the release of hormones called endorphins.

It’s good exercise - The body’s response to laughter is quite similar to the body’s response to exercise. After several seconds of laughter, your heart rate elevates. We don’t recommend that lie about watching reruns of Seinfeld all day but as part of a healthy lifestyle comedy is a great addition.

It’s a heart-friendly activity - Scientists at The University of Maryland determined that subjects with heart disease were 40 percent less likely to laugh in many situations compared to those without heart disease; and in fact were more prone to anger and hostility.

I can’t say for certain that laughter really is the best medicine, but it certainly won’t hurt you to book a ticket to see your favourite comedian. Take a friend because research also suggests that we laugh even more when we are in the company of others, so you both get a double dose of healthy happiness.

By Tracey Anderson

www.breakneckcomedy.co.uk

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31

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