Web issue 115 we1

Free magazine Issue 115 Mar-Apr-May 2017 Bieldside, Cults, Broomhill, Holburn

West End 1

a gazette magazine

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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.

independent publisher All enquiries : Sue Simpson Disclaimer : Whilst we’d be flattered if you would like to borrow something from the gazette be polite and ask first! Thank you. We

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Snowdrop and crocus bulbs are providing some pretty spectacular bursts of colour as I walk with the dogs through the woods at the moment. The longer evenings are also beneficial. Spring is here and with the clocks going forward at the end of March we might expect some warmer weather.

With it coming up to Easter have you got your pet sorted out if you are going away? Then why not try The Dog House for some dog boarding? If you are going to sunnier climates then maybe Definition skin and laser clinic can help you out before you go.

Pingalawyer is a new way to find a lawyer, especially if you don’t have a “family lawyer” or really don’t know what type of lawyer you are looking for.

They’ll match a lawyer to your needs, no obligation, but certainly takes the headache out of looking Big milestone birthday this year for the fabulous Poldinos (40 years young) we are doing a fab feature in our next issue - watch this space.

I am still looking for some delivery people again for both of the West End magazines. Cults area (Hillview) and Woodend - if you think you might have some time and want a bit of exercise every other month then email me at mail@gazettemagazines.com put Delivery Job in subject line and any preference to area.

So go grab that cuppa and think about offering to deliver!

Until next time,

Sue

Delivered bi-monthly to : 6000 letterboxes in Bieldside, Broomhill, Cults, Holburn, Ashley and Woodland at Pitfodels Ad-hoc contributions from : Susan Brookes-Morris; Ann Holdon; Pippa Greenwood; Distribution - thanks to : Sue; James; Mary; Benjamin; Lois; Bruce; Jessica; Abbie; Alison; Mitchell; Holly; Chloe; Daniel; Anna; Ella and Alex.

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Deadlines: del fm 17th 20 May - June-July issue 20 July - Aug-Sept issue 20 Sept - Oct-Nov issue 20 Nov - Dec-Jan issue 20 Jan - Feb-Mar issue 20 Mar - Apr-May issue

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Luxury Dog Home Boarding From boarding in the comfort of my own home to dog sitting in your home, I offer a number of services to care for your beloved dog when you are away.

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Should Your Rabbit Live Indoors Or Outside?

When deciding where to house your rabbit, it’s important to balance their sociable nature and preference for company with the need for space to exercise. Wherever you place them, one of the main aspects to consider is their safety.

Living inside With so many potentially dangerous objects in your home, including cables that can be nibbled through and houseplants that are poisonous, you’ll need to give careful thought to where your rabbit will live indoors.

They’re very sensitive creatures, but also naturally inquisitive, which can lead them into danger if left unsupervised for too long. A rabbit can live for up to 10 years, so it’s a long-term commitment and not the easy option.

An outdoor home An outdoor hutch should allow enough

PETS

space for them to stand on their hind legs, stretch out whilst lying down, and have a substantial run attached. They will also need a quiet area to rest and sleep, away from view.

Rabbits kept in a confined space sometimes develop skeletal problems, so it’s crucial to attach a good-sized exercise area to the hutch. This also allows you to see more of your pet, and makes cleaning easier.

Their outdoor home should be sheltered from direct sunlight and strong winds, and offer protection from other pets or animals that roam around at night.

Regardless of whether they live indoors or outside, your rabbit will need plenty of space to hop around and play with toys that stimulate their naturally curious and intelligent nature. https://www.bluecross.org.uk/pet-advice/caringyour-rabbit https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/ rabbits/environment

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By Ann Haldon

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Our books this month are all about change, from shifting viewpoints to rewriting history.

Homegoing – Yaa Gyasi Homegoing follows the descendants of two African sisters – one sold into slavery, the other married off to a slave trader. We meet warring tribes in Ghana, brutalised slaves on American plantations, men forced into hard labour once slavery has supposedly been outlawed, drug addicts and numerous other characters. Brilliantly written, vivid and, at times, harrowing, this is one of those books you’ll find yourself recommending to anyone who’ll listen.

All Our Wrong Todays – Elan Mastai No one expects Tom Barren to amount to much.

They certainly don’t expect him to go back in time and completely change life as they know it. But that’s what happens. In Tom’s world 2016 looks rather different than it does to us. The discovery of a clean, almost effortless form of energy back in the 60s has made the world something of a utopia. But then Tom becomes the first time traveller, and accidently rewrites history. When he gets back to 2016, everything has changed.

Stickertopia, The Flower Garden – Mitchell Beazley Walk into any bookstore and you’re likely to see at least one shelf dedicated to grown-up colouring books. So it’s not too much of a surprise that sticker books are having a similar grownup makeover. This one includes 30 garden illustrations, from Klimt’s garden path to the butterfly garden in Bronx Zoo. You can add extra colour and detail with stickers of flowers, leaves, butterflies and birds. It’s surprisingly relaxing, and there’s something rather satisfying about putting your own mark on the designs.

The Flower Garden

The Forest

Mitchell Beazley £10 Paperback 2nd February 2017

Mitchell Beazley £10 Paperback 2nd February 2017

Create beautiful artworks, one sticker at a time.

The next big thing after colouring.

Mitchell Beazley brings you two beautiful sticker books, The Forest and The Flower Garden. For people who don’t want to colour within the lines. Using beautifully detailed stickers, construct your own worlds of wonder, one tiny detail at a time.

With vibrant patterns and illustrations from world renowned artists, lose yourself in stickering unique illustrations whenever you need a moment of calm.

Like colouring, stickering is a craft that you can take up instantly. It requires few materials and no special equipment.

All you need is the time and space to relax and enjoy it.

For each illustration there are around 100 stickers, allowing you to personalise each scene with insects, flowers, plants and other details of your choice. Use the thumbnail images of finished gardens to guide you, or get creative and make your own original artworks.

This is mindfulness that really sticks.

For more information, please contact Saskia Sidey saskia.sidey@octopusbooks.co.uk or 020 3122 7435

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Take Courage, Anne Brontë and the Art of Life – Samantha Ellis Anne is often seen as the ‘other Brontë’. Most of us would struggle to remember the names of either of her books. In part this is because of the way she’s usually portrayed – quiet, reserved and, well, less interesting than her siblings. Ellis goes to great lengths to show that this was far from the case. Anne’s novel, The Tenant of Wildfell Hall, was, in many ways, more subversive and ahead of its time than those of her sisters. As Ellis talks us through her research, a very different Anne Brontë starts to emerge. Take Courage is far from a dry clinical biography; Ellis is clearly indignant at Anne’s treatment and the book is a real pleasure to read.

Good Me, Bad Me – Ali Land Can a child brought up to be a killer change her fate? That’s the question posed in this gripping psychological thriller. Milly is in foster care with a new family and a new name. All she wants is a fresh start. But Milly’s mum is a serial killer, and Milly was the one who put her behind bars. As the trial approaches, Milly has to decide what she wants from life, and how far she’s willing to go to get it.

The Art of Contribution – Ann Skinner The Art of Contribution aims to help people live a more meaningful life. Life coach Ann Skinner shares her advice for making a positive impact on the world. The book is broken up into short, easily digestible chapters.

They focus on lessons that Skinner has learnt herself, from embracing imperfections to contributing not ‘from a place of feeling that some things in the world need fixing, but from a place of wanting to add joy to it’.

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Finding a lawyer in the digital age: We live in a time where people turn to the internet for just about everything. We believe if it’s worth finding it will be on page one of our Google search. But, is it true for finding a lawyer? Aberdeen lawyer, Philip Argo, thinks it should be and that’s why he’s launched PingaLawyer, an online digital brokering service helping people find the lawyer that’s right for them.

Philip said “In my experience people often don’t know where to start when looking for a lawyer or they don’t have time during work hours to visit or contact firms in person for quotes.”

Why is finding a lawyer so different than looking for practically everything else? From Philip’s perspective, the conservative nature of the legal profession has made it slower to adopt new technology and for good reason when you consider how regulated the profession is. He said “That’s why I’ve spent the best part of the

past year making sure PingaLawyer is a tool I would be comfortable using as both a lawyer and a consumer. I’m very happy to say it is and that there has been a good response from local law firms.”

There’s an app for that For those who need a lawyer, it’s much more than an online directory. The free application allows users to request a quote from local lawyers in a specific practice area who have the capacity to take on new work. For example, if you need a lawyer to sell your property, you’ll only be connected with lawyers who provide that service. You have the opportunity to communicate through the secure site with the lawyers or firms who have expressed an interest in taking on your work; and, you are not obliged to accept any of the quotes if you do not wish to.

It’s an easy way to find a reputable lawyer.

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of space around the driver and logically placed controls for the fabulous multimedia system.

There’s also a three-zone climate control system, an optional Bang & Olufsen sound system, and the optional virtual cockpit, which replaces the dials with a 12.3-inch high resolution display which can switch between dials or a full screen satnav display.

Space and practicality

New Audi Q5 Replacing ultra-successful cars is never easy for a manufacturer. But when the model you’re refreshing has been at the top of the sales charts in its class for every single one of the years it has been on sale, that task becomes all the more difficult. And that’s the challenge Audi has faced with the Q5. The mid-sized model has been the brand’s best-selling SUV since it went on sale in 2008, finding an incredible 1.6 million homes across the world. This is the refreshed off-roader, charged with continuing that impressive feat.

Built at the manufacturer’s most advanced ‘smart factory’ in Mexico, it’s been packed with clever technology, features revised engines and a fresh look that the maker hopes will continue to win over buyers. But has it done enough to steer buyers away from new pretenders to its crown, like the Jaguar F-Pace?

Looks and image Well, it certainly has the looks. The new Q5 may be a little less flashy than its Jaguar rival, but that smart new octagonal nose, dramatic headlights and sharp body creases all serve to give it fantastic presence on the road. That’s helped by a wonderfully squat stance and perfect proportions.

The only thing that jars is the fake exhaust-like trim on the rear bumper.

Inside the quality is clear. Solid, good quality materials are everywhere and the leather seats, which are standard across the range, are comfortable and perfectly adjustable. It’s easy to get settled behind the wheel too, with plenty

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The new Q5 is bigger and wider than its predecessor – but still 90kg lighter. Inside there’s more headroom and rear knee-room, while boot

space is up 10 litres to 550 litres with the rear seats in place and 1,550 litres with them down.

Two adults will sit comfortably in the back, but a large transmission tunnel seriously eats into rear legroom for anything larger than a small child in the middle seat.

Safety systems are plentiful, though. Buyers can opt for active lane assist, pre-sense assistance which helps detect if a crash is imminent and can apply the brakes for you, and cross-traffic assistance at the rear that will help when pulling out of parking spaces. In slow moving traffic it’s even partly autonomous, slowing down and speeding up in jams while keeping you in your lane.

What’s under the bonnet?

There are three engine options to pick from – but the best seller, and our pick of the bunch, is the 187bhp, 400Nm, 2.0-litre TDI, which will account for 60 per cent of sales in the UK. This comes as standard with a clever new Quattro Ultra all-wheel drive system that can switch seamlessly between two and four-wheel drive automatically.

This makes the car more efficient without losing out on traction.

Fuel economy is

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56.5mpg with emissions of 132g/km. It’s the quickest SUV in its class too, hitting 60mph in 7.7 seconds and going on to a top speed of 135mph.

up on a couple of occasions, stuttering a little as it looked for a gear, but overall it’s by far and away the best choice of transmission.

A 2.0-litre TFSI petrol option with 250bhp is also available. It’s capable of returning 40.9mpg and emits 157g/km. A feisty 3.0-litre V6 TDi completes the line-up, producing 284bhp and a stonking 620Nm of torque.

Value for money

Behind the wheel

Audi has moved the game on with its new Q5 but not ruined a recipe that has won it so many admirers. Stylish, comfortable and great to drive, it’s now packed with even more clever technology and features. With best in class performance and economy, and some highly tempting optional extras, we’d be very surprised if any of its rivals managed to usurp it at the top of the sales charts any time soon.

The new Q5 is quite simply brilliant to drive.

We tested the car on a variety of terrain, from motorways to cities and beaches to dirt tracks; it took them all in its stride. On the road it’s quiet, refined and accomplished, while in the grit it was surefooted and secure.

The revised 2.0-litre diesel engine is punchy enough for a car of this size and works brilliantly when combined with the 7-speed S-tronic gearbox. We did find the automatic tripped itself

Audi has packed the Q5 with plenty of standard goodies including leather seats, a self-parking system, powered boot and a drive select system that lets you switch between sporty and more comfortable settings.

Verdict

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RICOTTA STUFFED CHICKEN This recipe is a great way to turn chicken fillets into something special. You can prepare them a couple of hours in advance and keep covered in the fridge, then simply cook when needed.

Serves 4 Ready in 1 hour 10 minutes 75g ricotta cheese 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves 2 tsp finely grated lemon zest 4 large skinless chicken breast fillets 12 thin-cut rashers streaky bacon 5 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp white wine vinegar 1tsp Dijon mustard Pinch of sugar 100g baby spinach leaves 2 tbsp pine nuts, toasted

1 Use a sharp knife to make a deep pocket in each chicken fillet, making sure not to cut right the way through. Place the ricotta cheese in a bowl and stir in the thyme leaves and the lemon zest. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

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2 Place one-quarter of the ricotta mixture in the pocket of each chicken fillet. Use the back of a knife to stretch the bacon rashers.

Wrap 3 rashers around each chicken fillet and secure with a metal skewer. Preheat the oven to 180C, 160C Fan, Gas Mark 4.

3 Heat 1tbsp of the oil in a frying pan and fry the chicken fillets over high heat for 2-3 minutes until the bacon is browned, turning once. Transfer to a roasting tin and cook for 35-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Cover and leave in a warm place to rest for 10 minutes.

4 To make the dressing, whisk the remaining oil with the vinegar, mustard and sugar in a small jug and season to taste.

Slice each chicken fillet into 6 pieces and arrange on the salad leaves. Scatter over the toasted pine nuts and spoon over the dressing. Serve immediately.

TIP Instead of ricotta you could use low-fat soft cheese such as Philadelphia or a mild and creamy goats’ cheese.

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Final salary pension schemes There are two main types of private pensions; a defined contribution (DC) pension, which is based on how much is paid in, and a defined benefit (DB) pension, which is based on your salary and how long you’ve worked for your employer.

DC pensions involve you, or your employer, paying money into a pension pot that is then put into investments by the pension provider.

Often referred to as final salary pension schemes, DB pensions are always workplace pensions that are arranged by your employer. Many DB schemes also

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have rules that entitle workers to take a lower level of income from their pension entitlement in exchange for a cash lump sum.

According to insurance company Royal London, six million people with DB pensions have seen their transfer values increase dramatically in the past year, due to continuing low interest rates.

There are a number of benefits to transferring a DB pension, such as the possibility of extra tax-free cash, a more flexible retirement income and a potentially easier inheritance, as funds can be passed on to heirs.

Whilst this option may work for some, it is important to note that keeping a DB scheme may be a more sensible option, as they can offer extremely valuable inflation protection, the certainty of an income for life, and a risk-

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free income, which does not depend on the ups and downs of the stock market.

Current rules state that those who transfer their DB pensions have to sell the whole thing, increasing the element of risk, as this means that you could be left with a much smaller pension pot.

If you’re eligible to transfer your DB pension, I highly recommend speaking with your financial advisor before making the decision to sell. They will be able to talk you through the best options suited to your financial situation.

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Scientist Baird Becquerel Bell Bernoulli Boyle Bunsen Celsius Crick Curie Darwin Davy Einstein Fleming Galen Gauss Halley Hopper

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CHOCOLATE & ORANGE HOT CROSS BUNS Give the classic hot cross bun a delicious twist with the addition of chocolate chips, orange zest and piped chocolate crosses!

Makes 12 Ready in 2 hours 45 minutes

pan then stir in the butter until melted.

Leave the liquid to cool until it’s just hand hot.

Pour the liquid into the well with the beaten egg and mix with a round- bladed knife to make a soft and slightly sticky dough. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.

3 Place the dough in a clean, lightly greased bowl and cover with oiled cling film. Leave the bowl in a warm place for about 1 hour or until the dough has doubled in size.

4 Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, flatten out with the palms of your hands and scatter over the dried fruit and chocolate chips. Fold and knead the dough until the fruit and chocolate chips are incorporated. Divide and shape the dough into 12 even-sized buns and place on a large greased baking sheet.

500g strong white plain flour, plus extra for dusting ½ tsp salt 2 tsp ground mixed spice Zest of 1 orange 50g caster sugar 1 x 7g sachet easy-blend or fast-action dried yeast 300ml hand-hot milk 55g butter, cubed 1 large egg, beaten 75g dried mixed fruit 50g dark chocolate chips

5 Cover loosely with oiled cling film and leave in a warm place until the buns have risen by at least half again and are almost touching each other - this will take about 45-60 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 200C, 180C fan, Gas Mark 6.

6 Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until risen and golden brown.

Leave on the baking sheet for 5 minutes then transfer to a cooling rack. Brush with the warmed golden syrup whilst the buns are still warm.

7 When the buns are cold, spoon the melted chocolate into a small disposable piping bag, snip off the end and pipe a cross on each bun. Leave until set then serve.

For the Glaze and Crosses 1-2 tbsp warmed golden syrup 50g dark chocolate, melted 1 Sift the flour into a large bowl and stir in the salt, mixed spice, orange zest, sugar and dried yeast. Make a well in the middle.

2 Bring the milk almost to the boil in a small

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TIP - These buns are best eaten on day they’re made, but if you have some left over the next day simply split and toast and serve with butter or chocolate spread.

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Introducing Changes to Your Waste and Recycling Services Beginning in March, Aberdeen City Council will introduce changes to household waste and recycling services. From 6th March, collection routes for general waste, recycling and brown bins will change.

Residents will also start using a wheeled bin for their recycling, replacing the kerbside black box and white bag. All recyclable materials will be collected from a single wheelie bin so there will be no need to separate them, making the service even easier to use. You’ll also be able to recycle a wider range of materials including plastic pots, tubs and trays, as well as food and drink cartons (e.g. Tetrapaks).

By introducing a convenient recycling service across Aberdeen, we hope that more people will be encouraged to recycle.

The Council’s Waste and Recycling team will deliver new, slightly smaller general waste bins to households. Existing waste bins will receive a sticker and will then be used as mixed recycling bins.

Once collected, your mixed recycling will be

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sorted at Aberdeen City’s new state-of-theart Materials Recovery Facility in East Tullos which is due to begin operating in Spring.

Once the materials are sorted, they are baled and sent on to reprocessing plants where they are recycled into valuable resources such as new bottles, cans and newspapers.

Brown bin collections for recycling food and garden waste will continue unchanged.

As well as your garden waste, your brown bin can also take all cooked and uncooked food waste. These materials are sent to a reprocessing plant in Aberdeenshire where they are turned into compost, a valuable resource for local farmers.

The simple act of recycling has enormous benefits for the environment and for Aberdeen: It reduces waste which can damage our environment; It means that the council spends less on waste disposal and treatment; and It allows the materials to be turned into new resources.

You can find out more about the changes at www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/mixedrecycling.

Contact the Waste and Recycling Team for more information or advice: E: wasteandrecycling@aberdeencity.gov.uk T: 03000 200 292F: www.facebook.com/recycleforaberdeen T: www.twitter.com/AberdeenCC

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British beauty This month we’re celebrating British beauty brands, from boutique perfumers to global bestsellers.

Kate Duggan: www.kateduggan.co.uk The founders of Scottish skincare brand Ishga include a beauty therapist, a scientist and a seaweed specialist. So it’s perhaps no surprise that Ishga products harness the power of organic seaweed to deliver noticeable, lasting results. Along with Hebridean seaweed, key ingredients include thistle oil, jojoba oil and aloe vera. Ishga products are a real pleasure to use and the brand has built up a devoted fan

base (which includes me). You’ll find the Ishga range in a number of five-star spas across the UK, as well as online. If your skin has a tendency to feel dry and tight, try the Hebridean Marine Toner, £25. It’s really hydrating and packed with anti-oxidants; see www.ishga.co.uk.

Bradford born Leighton Denny is probably best known for his nail varnishes. There are now 101 of them, in pretty much every colour you could want. But Leighton’s talent doesn’t stop there.

His tanning products, lip colours and fragrances have attracted a league of fans in their own right. His perfume Light and Dark Lively, £43.50, beat numerous big brand top-sellers to be crowned Elle Magazine’s Readers’ Choice in the Fragrance Foundation UK awards last year. It’s a unisex fragrance that’s citrusy, woody and very wearable; see www.ld-boutique.com.

Narynda Kumar first started experimenting with skincare when she developed stress-related dermatitis. Rather than resorting to steroid

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creams, she created a balm using the beeswax from hives in her garden. It was so successful that she made more for friends. As demand grew, Narynda decided to take the plunge and set up her own business. She created a range of skincare products using natural ingredients, such as beeswax, oat extracts and seed oils. To begin with, Narynda sold her skincare products at craft fairs and farmers’ markets, but they’re now available from online retailers such as notonthehighstreet.com and Love Lula, as well as from Narynda’s own website. Try the Day Cream, £17.50. It’s gentle enough for even sensitive skin, but powerful enough to give your skin a real boost; see www.narynda.com.

Spanish-born Marina Barcenilla now lives in Glastonbury, where she’s been creating award

winning fragrances for several years. One of her perfumes, India, was named Best New Independent Fragrance by the Fragrance Foundation UK. While I do like India, my favourite has to be Spring Rain, £70. With notes including bergamot mint, rosemary, geranium, rose, blood orange, lemon and Indian frankincense, it’s fresh, vibrant and unlike anything else on the market; see www. mbparfums.com.

Akamuti was launched by aromatherapist Lindsey Hedges back in 2003. Since then it’s developed a reputation for great quality, natural products. Everything is handcrafted, using ethically sourced sustainable ingredients, such as seed and nut oils, organic shea butter and essential oils. Every product I’ve tried feels really decadent – nourishing, soothing and a real joy to use. The Fragrant Tranquillity Bath Salts, £8.50, for instance, are a real treat at the end of a busy day. They leave skin feeling super soft, and smell divine; see www.akamuti.co.uk.

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CLUBS & CLASSES Tai Chi (Taijiquan) & Health Qigong (Chi Kung) Mondays 7-8pm and 8-9pm Aberdeen Unitarian Church contact Matthew Knight Email: ruyischool.mk@gmail.com Childrens Highland Dancing Lessons Day: Various - After School / Saturdays Craigiebuckler, Holborn West, City Centre and Cults sinclairhighlanddancing@gmail.com or 07972104774

Rhythm Time Multisensory Music Sessions Ruthrieston West Church Tuesdays: 9.45am, 14mnths - 3yrs 10.25am 0 -12mnths 11.05am 0 - 12 mnths Friday: 9.30am 14mnths - 3yrs 10.10am 14mnths 3yrs 10.50am 0 - 12mnths Scottish Country Dancing classes Various Days start 26 Sept from Beginners to Advanced for Adults - Beginners on a Thursday afternoon or Monday evening. Please contact aberdeenrscds@ hotmail.co.uk or 01224 636128 for more information.

Mannofield Gospel Choir Mondays, 19th September onwards 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Mannofield Church Alistair Stark, 01224 318536, mail@agstark.co.uk No auditions, no experience needed, no end of fun.

Ceilidh classes every other Tuesday from 4th October.

South St Nicholas Church Kincorth, 7:30 - 9:00pm everyone welcome for a fun evening! Please contact aberdeenrscds@hotmail.co.uk or 01224 636128 for more information.

Gordonians Hockey Club - Youth Coaching Tuesdays fm 23rd Aug until end of May 5.45pm - 7.00pm Astroturf Playing Fields, Countesswells Road AB15 8AR Ages P4 - S6 any school Contact John Mowat tel: 07525 811039

Scottish Country Dancing classes for Children after school at St Joseph’s, Kingsford, Braehead, Craigiebuckler Church Hall or at City Moves on a Saturday morning .

Please contact aberdeenrscds@hotmail.co.uk or 01224 636128 for more information.

Aberdeen Choral Society Mondays fm 5th September at 7.30pm Queens Cross Church Hall.. Please come and join us we’d love to have you. All details on our website.

Aberdeen Orpheus Choir Wednesday evenings at 7.15 p.m. in the Hall of Crown Terrace Baptist Church, Windmill Lane, Aberdeen. Some vacancies exist in the Choir and if you can read music and are interested in choral music, further information may be obtained by contacting our Conductor, Jane Murray on 07967926758.

Woodburn Walkers Every seond Tuesday @ Hazlehead Park - Contact 01224 323925 and 01224 318075. A walking group open to all over 50’s .

Mannofield Parent & Toddler Group Monday, & Fridays 1000 - 1130 @ Mannofield Church Facebook Group - Mannofield Parent & Toddlers Aberdeen Strathspey and Reel Society Monday evenings, Jnr Orchestra - 6.30 to 7.30pm, Snr 7.30 to 9.00pm @ Airyhall School, Countesswells Road Tel: 01224 676482, e-mail infoaberdeenstrathspey.org.uk www.aberdeenstrathspey.org.uk Aberdeen Italian Circle Thursdays (every 2/3 weeks) Time: 7.15 pm Rubislaw Church Centre, Beaconsfield Place Contact: abital@btinternet.com 01224 635792

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The Granite City Guerrillas Dodgeball Team over 16 Mon 8pm – 10pm at The Jesmond Sports Centre, Bridge of Don (Mixed session) Wed 8.30pm – 10pm at The Danestone Community Centre, Bridge of Don (Ladies only) Contact: www.facebook.com/ thegranitecityguerrillas

LIST YOUR CLASS - FREE Basic Info ONLY in the following order Name of Class: Day: Time: Where: Contact: (5 lines FREE) if you want more space then there is a charge ...

To list your class email: mail@gazettemagazines.com subject : Clubs/Classes

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CLUBS & CLASSES Friskis&Svettis Jympa Wednesdays from 7-8pm (exercise to music).

Low impact, suitable for all ages & abilities. Airyhall Community Centre Contact Jackie Tel 01224 713705

Friskis & Svettis Jympa Tuesday from 7.30pm - 8.30pm Airyhall Community Centre Call Katie on 01224981474/07889011337 or email info@fsaberdeen.co.uk Rubislaw Baby Group Tuesdays, 9.30am – 11.00am Rubislaw Church Centre, Beaconsfield Place, Aberdeen £2.50 per session Suitable for: Birth to walking 07747 830386 email: rubislawplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk Rubislaw Toddler Group Wednesdays, 9.30am – 11.00am Rubislaw Church Centre, Beaconsfield Place, Aberdeen £3.00 per session (includes snack) Suitable for: Walking to 21/2 years 07747 830386 email: rubislawplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk Rubislaw Playgroup Monday to Friday, 9.10am – 12.20pm Rubislaw Church Centre, Beaconsfield Place, Aberdeen £16.00 per session (choose days to suit, funded places available) Suitable for: 21/2 years to school age 07747 830386 email: rubislawplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk Zumba with Sharon Wednesday 7.30 - 8.30 At Broomhill Activity Centre 197 Broomhill Road AB10 7LN Contact - 07578299963 Shaggy225@hotmail.co.uk Italian Classes in Cults (Aberdeen) from Beginners to Advanced level Summer Sessions in Italy Enrica Conti Tel. 07786827714 encoit@talktalk.net www.italianlanguageaberdeen.co.uk Kaimhill Strollers Thursday at 9.15 over 50s walking group which meets Community Wing of Kaimhill School. Walks average 6 miles cost of £4 includes use of our minibus. Contact Dick on 01224 782109 or Doris on 01224 316775.

Mannofield Yoga Thursdays 7.15-8.15pm Mannofield Church All welcome including beginners Contact Jenny at jennyflowerw@yahoo.co.uk

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CTC Grampian We are the local group of the Cycling Touring Club which is a national organisation. We provide cycle rides for all abilities to local destinations and further afield. The group is aimed at cyclists of all abilities and ages. John B, Chairman, Tel: 01224 571984. www.ctcgrampian.org.uk Barre Fitness classes Monday at 10-11am at Granville Lane Scout Hut, Tuesday at Mile End Primary from 6-7pm and Friday 5pm and 5.30pm at Fitness and Wellbeing Development on Riverside Drive. c.chernouski@yahoo.co.uk or www.facebook.com/BarreFitnessAberdeen.

Silver CITY Singers Mondays 7.20 - 9.30pm AGS Former Pupils Club 86 Queen’s Road AB15 4YQ www.silvercitysingers.com The Mixing Bowl Aberdeen A food interest group for the community. Meets monthly in term time at St Devenick’s church hall, Baillieswells Rd, Bieldside Further details: www.mixingbowl.btck.co.uk Yoga with Deborah Thompson Wednesday 7-8pm. Tel: 07821704826, Cults Kirk Church Hall on Quarry Road in Cults, deborahthompsonyoga@ gmail.com Scottish Country Dancing Beginners’ Summer Socials Wednesday 3rd May until end of August, 7:30pm to 9:45pm at Curl Aberdeen, Eday Road. Ceilidh classes 1st and 3rd Tuesday 7:30pm to 9:00, South St Nicholas Church, Kincorth. Contact: 01224 636128 or aberdeenrscds@hotmail.co.uk for info.

Dru Yoga Dru is a gentle, flowing style of yoga suitable for all. Tues 7 - 8 pm Jubilee Hall, South Holburn Church. Thurs 10 - 12 noon Girlguiding, 45 Victoria Street, Aberdeen.

Registered Dru Yoga teacher. Tel: Pauline 01224 643447.

Hatha Yoga Thursday 9:30-10:30 am - Ashley Road , Aberdeen £7.00 per session Info & bookings : Adriana 07799845716 - limited spaces Fitness with Laura Mon - 6-7pm Inchgarth Community Centre Wed - 6.157.15pm Tullos Primary School Fri - 10-11am Inchgarth Community Centre F: fitnesswithlaura or 07739181345.

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CLUBS & CLASSES

MummyFITT. Wednesday - 12-1 o at Danestone Community Centre and 10-11 on a Friday at Cults parish church main hall on quarry road. Contact kirsty167@hotmail.com/ 07540790348 / www. facebook.com/mummyFITT

Barney’s Ballroom Wednesdays, 20:15-21:45 Cults Parish Church (main hall), Quarry Road, AB15 9ET Saturdays, 13:00-14:30 & 14:30-16:00 Stonehaven South Church Hall, Cameron Street, AB39 2HS Contact : 07342 789 965

Beginners Ashtanga Yoga (power Yoga).

Monday 6.30 till 7.30 and 7.30 till 8.30 (seniors). £7 Cults Kirk Centre Hub, 404 North Deeside Road, Cults. Call Simone 07985 384402 or email Simone. barnett@sky.com

Airyhall Ramblers Group Every 2nd Wednesday @ Countesswells Road 9.15am Open to over 50’s A friendly, sociable group. Long & short walks available. Contact 07472686889

Granite City Scottish Women’s Institute Every 4th Wednesday 7-9pm (September to June).

Ruthrieston Community Centre, 532-536 Holburn Street, Aberdeen (car park to rear). Just come along or tel the secretary 01224 587590 NCT Waddling to Toddling group Mondays, 10-11.30am - (from birth to preschool) St Francis of Assisi Church, Deesdie Gardens, Mannofield. £2 donation requested. Email: parentsupport.aberdeen@nct.org.uk

LIST YOUR CLASS - FREE Basic Info ONLY in the following order Name of Class: Day: Time: Where: Contact: (5 lines FREE) if you want more space then there is a charge ...

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How To Hedge There is nothing better than a living boundary around or within your garden, and it is difficult to beat a hedge. Hedges can be smart or informal, neat and compact or thicker and sturdier, evergreen or deciduous and can even have pretty flowers - and now is an ideal time to plant a new hedge.

First, prepare the area by forking the soil over thoroughly and remove large stones, debris and pernicious weeds. This also helps to break up any compaction and to aerate the soil, making it a better place for plant roots. You should fork in well-rotted garden compost, manure or proprietary compost if the soil is either very sandy and light or very heavy with clay, and at the same time incorporate a complete fertilizer. Don’t plant right up against an existing fence, as the plants won’t grow well.

At this time of year you can create a hedge very effectively using ‘bare-root’ plants, but if you want to plant a hedge at any other time you will need container-grown plants. If using potgrown plants, water them thoroughly and then carefully remove each plant from its pot. If the roots are tightly packed, tease them out firmly before planting. If you’re using bare-root plants, plant them immediately.

It is essential to plant and space the plants correctly, to both achieve the desired effect and ensure the plants establish well. Once out of the pot, position the plant in the prepared soil at the same depth as it was in the pot; for bareroot plants only the roots should be beneath the soil. Firm the soil around each so that it is in good contact with the roots.

Hedging plants should generally be spaced about 30-45cm apart. For a thicker or denser hedge, plant two parallel rows, each with a 45cm spacing between the plants, but positioned so that the planting is staggered like bricks in a wall. Once the whole hedge is planted, water the soil thoroughly to help settle the soil around the roots and so allow the plants to establish.

On windy sites or with larger plants use small, temporary stakes such as bamboo canes to stabilise the plants. Keep the hedge well watered, especially during dry or windy weather.

The first 18 months is the most vital period.

Some great hedging plants: Yew - a formal, evergreen hedge.

Thuja - a stunning conifer hedge for year round colour.

Beech - a deciduous plant that gives a good effect for much of the year. Both purple and green-leafed forms.

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Hornbeam - great as a neatly clipped hedge, but more prone to mildew than beech.

Cypress – excellent if kept well clipped and cut back regularly.

Pyracantha - spiny evergreen with pretty creamy-white flowers and red-orange or yellow berries.

Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com to buy gorgeous UK grown vegetable plants accompanied by weekly advice emails from Pippa, or to peruse the really useful selection of Pippa’s favourite gardening items including pop-up crop covers, SpeedHoes, SpeedWeeders, raised bed kits, Nemaslug, pull-out EasyTunnels, signed books and lots more besides.

Privet - the classic town hedge.

Euonymus - evergreen, some variegated green and cream, others green and yellow.

Hawthorn - deciduous and potentially thorny, good for wildlife.

Blackthorn - deciduous and very thorny, with pretty white flowers followed by sloes – but can easily get too vigorous!

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Lake Atitlan Guatemala In the central highlands of Guatemala, ‘the most beautiful lake in the world’ shimmers at the foot of mighty volcanoes, its crystal-clear waters constantly changing from emerald and blue to turquoise or aquamarine. It’s the deepest lake in Central America, created some 85,000 years ago by a massive volcanic eruption.

Today, new volcanoes mingle their reflections along the south shore: San Pedro, seemingly extinct, Toliman, a sleeping giant, and at 3,535 metres Volcan Atitlan, the highest, which last erupted in 1853. At dawn, when the first fishermen cast their nets in the reeds and barely a ripple disturbs the water, it’s almost surreal, but by late morning the Pacific breeze whips up the waves to clear the air and ‘carry away sin.’

It’s a blessing for the devout Maya who live in colourful villages scattered along the shore, worshipping both Christian and indigenous gods. Most fearsome is Maximon whose shrine is set up in a different house every year in Santiago Atitlan, just steps away from the church and the alleyways brimming with embroidered clothes. At festival time, the village bursts into a colourful frenzy, but for much of the year the shore is quiet, dotted with hidden gems like San Pedro La Laguna and its hot baths, or Santa Cruz set among verdant peaks and ravines and challenging trails climbing into the hinterland.

Here and there a mountain road comes down to the water but none circle the lake.

twice a week, the market spills down the lanes in a head-spinning kaleidoscope of colours, sounds and scents. Clad in vibrant Maya dress, the locals wait for custom while the tourists shuffle around, bewildered by the stunning handwoven textiles, the ritual masks, the tiny crib figures, the roses, the lilies, the dried fish from the lake and the fruit of the land. All around, the slopes are laced with avocado orchards, small coffee plantations and generous patches of maize, the Maya’s staple diet and, they say, a lifegiving gift from the gods.

Meanwhile, at just over 1,560 metres, the lake glistens in the cusp of the hills. Boats set sail now and then, gliding around an island, heading to a village or ferrying a handful of visitors within arm’s reach of the volcanoes.

Most stay in the pretty resort of Panajachel on the north-east bank, where red tuk-tuks rattle down a ‘high street’ lined with outdoor eateries and stalls full of bags, hammocks and shawls in dazzling colours. There’s a small promenade draped in palms and bougainvillaea, thatched restaurants perched on stilts at the water’s edge, and a handful of boats bobbing at anchor along rickety pontoons. There’s no better place to watch the sunset as the sky turns deep pink and gold and the dark silhouettes of the volcanoes loom eerily above the water. In these mystical highlands, at the heart of Guatemala, legends come to life and you can almost see the lost city lying deep down at the bottom of Atitlan.

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In the Sierra Madre rising above Lake Atitlan, the road leads to Chichicastenango, a bustling town where the Maya speak K’iche, one of 23 ethnic languages in Guatemala. Their traditional shrine nestles among the pines up on the crest while below, the church beckons at the top of 18 steps, each one symbolising a month in the Maya calendar. With its cobbled streets and red tiled roofs, ‘Chichi’ has a touch of magic and, Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

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Wheezes and Sneezes: How to Tackle Hay Fever Hay fever or seasonal allergies can be caused by the pollen of numerous trees, grasses or plants and it affects around 18 million people in the UK. Diagnosis

If you’re unsure it’s hay fever causing your symptoms, see your GP. They may refer you for an allergen test to determine whether you’re allergic to pollen or other organic material such as animal hair or dust mites.

A skin prick test only tests for the most common allergens, so it may be inconclusive. Your skin is pricked and exposed to a tiny dose of allergen - it should react if you’re allergic.

A blood test for the Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibody, produced when you encounter pollen, may also be used.

Symptoms Symptoms can range from mild to life-impacting: itchy and/or runny nose sneezing irritated, itchy, watery eyes Treating Hay Fever How you treat your hay fever will depend on the type and severity of your symptoms. Research by Allergy UK in 2014 showed that 62% of sufferers found their current medication ineffective – yet they failed to seek better alternatives or didn’t use it properly (only 14% of steroid nasal spray users were using them correctly in the study).

Ask a pharmacist for advice on the right medication and alternatives if it’s ineffective.

Ensure you follow doctor’s, pharmacist’s and manufacturer’s instructions carefully. See your GP if over the counter treatments aren’t working, or you develop sinus or ear infections.

Oral Medications (Tablets and Liquids) Antihistamines block the action of histamine, a chemical triggered by allergen exposure, to reduce or stop your allergic reaction.

They may not relieve a blocked nose but are usually effective against other symptoms. As a preventative, they work best if taken regularly and started in advance of high pollen count periods. They can also be taken as required when symptoms begin.

Some older antihistamines (e.g. chlorpheniramine, known as Piriton) make

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you drowsy and can affect your ability to do your job or drive. However, most people now choose newer, non-sedating antihistamines (e.g.

Loratadine).

recommended if steroids aren’t adequate.

Monoclonal antibody treatments (‘mabs’) such as Xolair block a substance involved in allergic reactions.

Steroids are only usually used short-term if other medications aren’t working or if your hay fever causes or aggravates asthma. They reduce symptoms by reducing inflammation.

Immunotherapy If your symptoms are persistent or severe, your doctor may suggest immunotherapy to progressively build allergen immunity. A specialist will gradually introduce your body to small amounts of allergen by injection or a sublingual tablet and monitor your reaction.

Treatment is started three months before your trigger pollen season.

Nasal Sprays and Drops Decongestant nasal sprays unblock your nose but can cause rebound congestion after a few days, so only use them for occasional relief or as an additional treatment on days when symptoms are severe.

Steroid nasal sprays or drops prevent and reduce inflammation in the nasal lining and can help relieve eye itchiness too.

Antihistamine nasal sprays relieve an itchy nose and reduce sneezing.

Eyedrops Antihistamine eyedrops reduce itchiness and watering.

Inhalers and Injections If seasonal allergies cause or exacerbate asthma, you may be offered a steroid inhaler and/ or a ‘reliever’, such as salbutamol (‘Ventolin’).

Injectable medications may sometimes be

Prevention Reduce pollen contact by avoiding drying washing outside, showering before bed and closing windows. You can check the Met Office pollen forecast at www.metoffice.gov.uk/health/ public/pollen-forecast Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk For more information: AllergyUK: www.allergyuk.org; Helpline: 01322 619898

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with a distinction. I’ve moved on from my first cheap ukulele and bought a beautiful Tanglewood concert uke on the advice of my teacher. I’m still a long way off playing like Jake Shimabukoro but I’m improving every week and having so much fun on the journey.

Here are some things I’ve learned along the way:

‘Uke’ can do it too!

I began to learn the ukulele properly about a year ago. I acquired a cheap instrument for Christmas one year, learned a few chords from You Tube, strummed a few songs, lost interest and carried on with my life consigning my ‘toy’ to a shelf.

Then one day while surfing the web I came across a video of a guy named Jake Shimabukuro. Google him playing Bohemian Rhapsody and prepare to be amazed. I was completely taken aback by his musicianship. My ‘toy’ was not a toy after all…it was a proper musical instrument, capable of making an awesome sound. I took it off the shelf and looked at it with new respect. Suddenly I wanted to learn to play like Jake!

I began a search for a ukulele teacher and found a classical guitar teacher who also taught ukulele. I was hooked from my first lesson. At first people would laugh when they visited us and saw my ukulele. They made references to George Formby and Tiny Tim. So I would play them a little bit of Spanish Flamenco (known as Flamencolele when played on a uke) or an Etude, and their mockery turned to surprise and delight.

My children learn violin and piano and were studying for their grade five exams. I wondered if I could do something similar on the ukulele. I took my Grade three exam at the beginning of this year and passed

It’s easy to play the ukulele…badly! The ukulele is certainly a simple instrument to pick up and get going on but like the recorder it suffers from being bought as a cheap toy for children. Also, all instruments will sound a bit ropey at the start of your musical journey, though the ukulele much less so than a recorder I have to say! To play any instrument well takes time and practice, but the pay-off is worth the effort.

Many schools are teaching ukulele now, which is both wonderful, and alarming. In my experience schools tend to be very bad at imparting a life long love of anything.

I’m sure if I’d been forced to play ukulele at school that I might not have picked it up as an adult. After all, if schools inculcated a life long love of a musical instrument, surely everyone in the UK would play the recorder!

People assume I am learning the ukulele as a stepping stone to learning the guitar. This is not the case. No-one thinks a violin is not a training instrument for the cello! It might look like a small guitar but it is a separate instrument with its own characteristics, sound, and musical repertoire. What sounds great on a violin may not work on a cello, and the same goes for ukulele and guitar. A ukulele is not a guitar with training wheels!

Though if playing one inspires you to learn the other I say go for it!

By Jamie McLaven

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