Web kcn issue 4 dec jan 13 14

West End - Deeside - Kingswells

Kingswells

Community News Issue 4 Dec 2013 - Jan 2014

Oh yes you can!

WIN two tickets for Aladdin at the Art Centre, Aberdeen!

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Kippie lodge

Aberdeen’s Sports & Country Club North Deeside Road, Milltimber ABERDEEN. AB13 0AB

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FAMILY MEMBERSHIP FOR AS LITTLE AS £109 PER MONTH. ARRANGE A TOUR OF OUR FACILITIES TODAY BY CALLING (01224) 734747

WWW.KIPPIELODGE.CO.UK

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28/10/2013 10:44:03

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Wishing all our friends and customers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy 2014 from all at Blinds Direct Kingswells

West End - Deeside - Kingswells

It’s Christmas ...

I can no longer avoid the fact the festive period is well and truly upon me.

For the truly organised whose presents will be long bought, wrapped and awaiting the big day! For the not so organised I have a wee sample of some gifts available locally that might be suitabe. For those that are last minute... a unique gift is often still to be had in the wonderful, unique, independent shops to be found close by.

Why not try your luck and enter the competition to win two tickets to see Aladdin at the Art Centre, but be quick, it closes on 15 December.

I would like to thank the Delivery Team. Having reached Issue 4 I have only lost a few to house moves out of the area - so a huge thank you. I appreiciate every drive you walk up, every letterbox you trap your fingers in, every time you drop a bundle and curse at the weight, every aching limb and shoe leather! Without you the magazines would be lying in boxes on my driveway. I do hope you all have a fabulous break over the Christmas period and will resume duties with the February magazine. I am looking for someone to take on part of Wellside if you happen to have a free hour or two once every two months, do get in touch.

If you were lucky enough to get a ticket for the Community Centre Christmas party - enjoy. Hopefully I’ll get a report for the next issue.

Wishing you and your families a wonderful time over the festivities and keep those resolutions for 2014.

Chat to you again in February,

Sue

PS: For those in the know - please take a moment to like our facebook page.https://www.facebook.com/gazettemagazines PPS: I received an email from a reader wanting to explain the “roundabout” after he read Councillor Delaney’s last article. I have printed the email in full for your perusal.

KCN - is a bi-monthly magazine Issue 5 6 7 8

Deadline 20 Jan 20 Mar 20 May 20 July

Deliver 05 Feb 05 Apr 05 June 05 August

Mag dates Feb-Mar Apr-May June-July Aug-Sept

Contact: Sue Simpson - 01224 949085 email - gazette@fsmail.net

With Christmas just around the corner it is easy to over indulge with all the lovely festive food, unfortunately we often overfeed our pets thinking we are treating them BUT did you know obesity in dogs and cats is a very common problem affecting 1 in 3 pets within the UK. Sometimes we may not be aware that our pets have a weight problem and therefore are unaware of the risks to our pets health. Being overweight can greatly increase the risk of pets developing conditions such as diabetes mellitus, heart disease and arthritis.

Although some diseases can cause obesity, the main reason for pets becoming over weight is that the food they eat contains more energy than they use up.

This means that if they eat too much, or eat foods high in calories or do not do enough exercise they may become overweight. Other contributing factors include your pets age, breed and whether or not they have been neutered.

It is very easy for even the most diligently cared-for pet to put on weight.

Along with having a negative impact on your pets well-being and quality of life, excess weight can also significantly shorten their life expectancy.

So please remember your pet does not know it is Christmas and does not expect all the treats that we associate with the festive season. A nice long walk for your dog and a cosy rug by the fire is all the treats your pet will need.

Everyone at Town & Country Veterinary Group would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Healthy new year.

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Aberdeen AB16 6LT

Telephone Orders Welcome (All meals freshly cooked to telephone order)

Tel: 01224 318543

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ACT ABERDEEN : Brings Aladdin To All Arts Centre & Theatre Aberdeen (ACT Aberdeen) is catering for everyone this year with a special requirements night and a ‘works night out’ evening to add to their run of family oriented interactive shows.

This year’s production introduces a host of colourful characters to populate the stage at the King Street venue, putting an Aberdonian twist on the classic tale of Aladdin. Bubbly Beldie, our pantomime dame will be generating loads of laughs, not forgetting Mimi the Monkey, a cheeky fellow sure to delight and entertain everyone of all ages.

Our Special Requirements evening, to be held on Friday 13th December at 7pm is mainly for families with additional needs, but is open to everyone. This is a first for ACT and will cater for families who may otherwise feel panto is inaccessible to them.

Paula Gibson, executive manager tells us, ‘We produce a truly family panto, with lots of interaction and the focus on the kids. However, it’s nice to be able to provide families with special requirements a show of their own, especially in light of recent news stories where some theatres have behaved in an inexcusable and inappropriate way towards these families. We want to feel that we can provide for everyone, in tandem with our ethos that everyone is entitled to an enriching cultural life regardless of age or social circumstance.’

Director, Wilma Gillanders is at the helm once more and is set to top last year’s amazing production and script. The ACT Aberdeen panto has become a firm family favourite, as many had to be turned away from sold out shows in December 2012.

The ‘works night out’ evening will be held on Thursday 19th December at 8pm, a later showing to allow groups partaking in preChristmas festivities to go out for a meal, or come to us and have a drink before the show. This showing is for over 16s only and is a one off, so will feature material exclusive to this performance.

Paula told us ‘This year, we also wanted to provide a ‘one night only’ opportunity for grown-ups to enjoy the show and leave the kids at home and come and have a good laugh. Our ‘works night out’ evening is set to be an entertaining and fun alternative to other Christmas Nights Out. Groups of 10 or more who pre-book will receive a free glass of wine on arrival and the show time has been moved to 8pm to allow for meals out beforehand. This is the first year we have tried this and hope that it becomes a popular alternative to a typical Christmas night out.’

Paula added ‘We have had an action packed year, with our 50th birthday celebrations, but there is no rest for us, as we are already planning for next year. Plans for next year’s panto are already underway and we have a very special offer for schools who book before April 2014. Our early bird offer runs from December to April 2014 and will allow schools to book at this year’s prices.’

In the meantime, keep your eyes peeled for a host of our panto characters, who will be appearing in various locations in and around Aberdeen.

For your chance to WIN a pair of tickets to Aladdin, answer the following question correctly…

Q: What is the name of the baddie in Aladdin?

Send your answers to media@act-aberdeen.org.uk with your answer, name and contact details and put ‘Aladdin Competition’ in the subject line.

ENTER BEFORE MIDDAY ON 15 DECEMBER 2013 Good luck!

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LOCAL Christmas Gift Guide For Him...

Stockists for His Christmas Guide 1. victorinox, Huntsman £34.99 buy at Outthere

Activewear, Banchory 2.

Hand Decorated Picture Frame using upcycled comic

books www.handmadeaberdeenshire.co.uk 3.

Primus Flasks from £16.99-£25.99 buy at Outthere

Activewear, Banchory 4 Meindl Toronto Gtx (£149.99) buy at

Outthere Activewear 5 Mountain Hardware, Monkey man grid jacket £129.99

buy at Outthere Activewear, Banchory 6 jetboil cooking stove £104.99 buy at Outthere

Activewear, Banchory 7 Ortlieb waterproof rucksack £104.99 at Outthere

Activewear, Banchory 8 Primus lunch jug £17.99 at Outthere Activewear, Banchory 9 Haglofs Rand 50L Rucksack £159.99 at Outthere

Activewear, Banchory

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Stockists for Her Christmas Guide LOCAL Christmas Gift Guide For HER...

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1 Ladies, Keen, Bryce waterproof walking shoe (£109.99) buy at Outthere Activewear, Banchory 2 Pearls & Flowers Phone Covers £9.50 www.facebook.com/joansgems1 3 OPI Nail Polish sets - Kumiko from £18 4 Green tea Amy Strachan = These are silk scarfs designed and hand finished in Scotland

by Amy Strachan, costs £60. (Junction Arts) 5 Haglofs, Swook hooded Fleece (Ladies) £99.99 buy at Outthere Activewear, Banchroy 6 Angel Necklace created using a crystal encrusted clay bead www.handmadeaberdeenshire.co.uk 7 Jewellery by Folly & Desire, this is the Bee Necklace and Bee earrings with black beads.

Both cost £14.00 so £28 for the set. (Junction Arts) 8 New Baby, Birthday (Kids, Male & Female), Anniversary, thank you, Christmas Cards -

£2 per card or 3 for £5 9 Dermalogica gift sets - Kumiko fm £20-£80 10 Candy Coated Purses 2 = Purses and phone covers by Candy Coated, Phone covers

£9.00, Small purses £11.00, large purses, £14.50. All made in Scotland. (Junction Arts) 11 Odlo ladies baselayer £44.99 Outthere Activewear, Banchory 12 Mountain Hardware Monkey Glove £24.99 Ouththere Activewear, Banchory 13 Wool Collars, Cari&Co at Bieldside

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Alison McLeod

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Afterschool Football

Kingswells Community Centre Monday 2.00-2.30 3.30-4.15

Pre School

P1/2

Tuesday *2.00-2.30 3.30-4.15

age 3.5+

P1/2

Friday 9.30-10.00 10.00-10.30 2.00-2.45

Pre School

Tiny tots Pre School Plus

*New class for pre school children starting after the October holidays at Kingswells Community Centre (child must be at least 3 and a half).

Airyhall Community Centre Monday 9.30-10.00

Pre School

Wednesday 9.30-10.00 Pre School 1.30-2.15 Pre School Plus 3.30-4.15 P1/2 4.15-5.00 P1/2

Thursday 9.30-10.00 Tiny Tots 1.45-2.15 Pre School 3.30-4.15 P1/2 4.15-5.00 P1/2

For more info contact Alison McLeod on 07824 631 221

www.Aberdeenfootballfun.co.uk

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LOCAL Christmas Gift Guide For KIDS...

6 1 2 Stockists for Kids Christmas Guide 1 Blinged Trainers Kids £25 Adult £28 www.facebook.com/joansgems1 2 Blinged Hair Bow Clips £5 www.facebook.com/joansgems1 3 Kozi Kids Oxford jacket £44.99 buy at Outthere Activewear

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dolls, beds and handmade book is £40 email mel.lamont@yahoo.co.uk Mini Blinged Converse & Uggs £5 www.facebook.com/joansgems1 Childs Penny Purse - £8.00 available from: Mountain Daisy / 100% Handmade Aberdeenshire

LOCAL Christmas Gift Guide For family...

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Stockists for Family Christmas Guide 1 Personalised Wine & champagne glasses £12 www.facebook.com/joansgems1 2 Tooth Fairy Doors £3 each, name plaques £5 each,

Mr & Mrs Home plaque £10 and Christmas plaque

£5 Call: 01569 731730 or facebook/craftydafty 3 Handmade cushions by The Bell and the Bee for

sale at Dee’s Tea’s, North Deeside Road, Kincardine

O’neil. Prices range from £25 to £28 4 Babs Pease 4 = Framed hand pulled Linocut print

by Babs Pease, title 'Bright Blue Snow'. Costs

£230.00 (Junction Arts) 5 Red & Cream tartan cushion at Cari&Co, Bieldside

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7

KCN Mail ...

A944 Speed Limits and Kingswells Roundabout’ For 2 years Councillor Delaney has been campaigning for a reduced speed limit of 40mph on the A944 between Westhills and Lang Stracht as he considers it to be, “a dangerous stretch of road.” He has also expressed concern over the new road markings for the Kingswells roundabout being incorrect and “just plain daft.” I have written to Councillor Delaney and Kingwells Community Council with. what I believe are, clear reasons why he is incorrect. Mr Delaney did reply saying that it was obvious we would not agree on the matter but he stopped short of addressing any of the evidence I produced that backs up my argument. As for the KCC, well unfortunately they did not reply and when I raised the matter in person during their September meeting as a visitor I was told it was an inappropriate and confusing matter to bring up?

The A944 used to be National speed limit for a dual carriageway, 70 mph, until a tragic head on collision claimed the lives of 2 people. It was reduced to 50mph after several Councillors expressed concern that a 70mph limit was too high thus contributing to the incident. There then followed another fatal head on collision in which a young toddler lost his life. This is why Councillor Delaney is now campaigning for a 40mph limit as he believes that, “The reduction to 50mph has had little effect in reducing speeding, with many motorists continuing to put themselves in danger of ignoring the speed limit.”

This statement contradicts his earlier comment that the road is dangerous and now he supports my argument that it is people’s actions on the road that can be dangerous and not the road itself. My argument to Councillor Delaney was that driving too slow for the road conditions can be just as dangerous as driving too fast for them and that a 40mph limit could increase the chance of collisions.

Sadly since writing this, another fatality has occurred in which a young man was attempting to cross the carriageway. This fatality has occurred whilst the road was subject to a 30mph limit during the recent road works. That is 20mph slower than the current limit. Councillor Delaney refused to comment when I asked him at the KCC meeting as a visitor to produce evidence that a 40mph limit is safest after a fatality has now occurred with a 30mph limit, even lower than what he is campaigning for.

I have researched the first fatal collision and evidence suggests that neither vehicle was breaking the speed limit; in fact one vehicle was described as driving too slow for the road conditions. The other vehicle was said to be travelling at 60mph when it lost control attempting to illegally undertake a vehicle in lane 2 which was also driving at 60mph. It crossed over the central reservation and collided head on with an approaching slow vehicle. I have been unable to find information as to the cause of the second fatal collision although I have been unofficially informed that speeding was also not a contributor. Once again the collision involved one vehicle crossing the central reservation into the path of another oncoming vehicle.

For these reasons I believe the 70mph limit should be reinstated along this section with the erection of central reservation crash barriers.

Having passed 8 minor rear end collisions on the A944 in the last 18months I also informed Mr Delaney that they were occurring in close proximity to the roundabout with the lights being in operation when vehicles were barely driving at 20mph in rush hour traffic. I also wrote to the council expressing concerns that I felt the lights were too hard to see and that it appeared these rear end collisions were occurring due to late braking when the lights turned red. I believe my concerns have been taken on board as we now have double extended lights which are much more visible from further back.

Also at the KCC meeting, along with Councillor Delaney, members expressed concern stating that the new road markings on the Kingswells roundabout were incorrect and confusing as they show to follow ahead for Kingswells. I believe the new road markings to be correct as surely the Kingswells roundabout is no more; instead we now have the Kingwells gyratory system. A gyratory is normally a big roundabout with multiple lane road markings combined with complex filtered multiphase traffic lights. This being the case the arrows on approach are not used as a direction to where Kingswells is as an area but as reminders to follow and remain in the correct approaching lane which will then automatically take you to your chosen destination. ie: we all know by local knowledge and signs that when approaching from Aberdeen, Kingswells is not straight ahead but everyone including visitors knows that there is also an appropriate traffic lane at junction ahead sign which confirms you cannot follow ahead in lane 3.

The arrow in lane 3 on approach is telling you to continue following ahead in this lane to go to Kingswells. You then follow a right only arrow followed by a joint ahead and right arrow. This gives you the option to exit for Kingswells or turn back to Aberdeen.

Therefore, you cannot have a right only arrow on approach in lane 3 for Kingswells as you can also use it to follow back to Aberdeen ie: for those living in the properties between Lang Stracht and Kingswells who mostly have to turn left out of their driveways then U turn back to Aberdeen as they are often unable to cross and wait in the central reservation whilst attempting to turn right. The same applies when turning right approaching from Westhill to Cults.

Councillor Delaney feels the hatched area is daft. Why? Do not enter it unless there are exceptional circumstances, how hard is that to understand?

If he feels that some uneducated or ignorant drivers might drive through it then perhaps the council could install flexible bollards such as those used in conjunction with contra flows just inside the solid white line. I would however suggest that the lane guidance sign should be bigger and also green rather than the small white one at present. It would then be in line with normal ‘A’ road signs.

What I think is daft is for Councillor Delaney to pose in his Kingswells Focus Summer 2013 edition squatting on the highway in Kingswells Cresent without even wearing a high visibility jacket allowing his photographer to also stand in the road. This is even worse as the photographer has their back to oncoming traffic and shows a total lack of understanding of the very first rule in the Highway Code. Maybe Councillor Delaney felt the road was quiet enough but then most people would consider the A944 with a 30mph limit to be quiet enough at 04.30 on a Saturday morning. Once again Councillor Delaney refused to answer this matter when I questioned him.

No doubt there will be some of you thinking that I have some kind of personal vendetta against Councillor Delaney, this is not the case. I fully welcome his attempts to improve road safety as I also share the same enthusiasm. I have invited Councillor Delaney to work with me in helping to improve road safety but sadly to date he has failed to accept my invitation. I find this very disappointing because unlike Councillor Delaney I am fully qualified in explaining and teaching road safety as I am a Grade 5 Approved Driving Instructor with almost 14 years’ experience. I believe Councillor Delaney is unfortunately basing his arguments on his own opinions where as I present my opinions along with facts.

We all have a responsibility to maintain the driving skills we were taught for life and not just taught to pass a driving test. So is it speed limits that need to be changed or peoples actions on the road?

Craig Wheaton

Wish all our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 3a Kingswells Avenue, Kingswells, Aberdeen AB15 8TG 01224 744 707 8

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BucksburnAcademy news Nov 2013

Rethinking Energy Team Visit the Netherlands

Bucksburn Academy Pupil Highly Commended at SQA Star Awards

Emma Gibb (S5) writes…In September the school Rethinking Energy Team travelled to the province of Zeeland as part of the European Comenius project which has linked the school with other schools in Norway, Sweden and Germany. As well as learning about alternative energies for the future the team also experienced some cultural activities such as visiting the Van Gogh museum.

The team will visit their German partners in February before hosting the final project conference at Bucksburn Academy in June.

The school is very proud of Alex Christides who was nominated for the SQA School

Bucksburn Academy Debating Success Candidate of the Year award following successfully passing 5 Advanced Highers as A last year and still finding time to contribute to the life of the school in many ways. Alex was on a shortlist of four pupils from across the whole of Scotland and attended a glamorous awards ceremony in Glasgow where he found out that he was Highly Commended.

Martin Close (S4) writes…The newly formed school debating team led by Martin Close and Andrew Jack has been taking part in the North of Scotland debating competition. They have been competing against six other teams from the likes of Roberts Gordons, Old Meldrum and The Gordon Schools Huntly. Martin and Andrew won the first debate and were third in the most recent debate which the school hosted.

Northern Arts Club

8 Bon Accord Square, Aberdeen, Tel : 586928

Drop in Classes - Wednesday and Friday 10-12noon Classes run throughout the year. Cost £50 per year.

Tutor session once a month additional cost £6.

Suitable for all abilities, contact Jacqueline 07597 126739 New Classes - Oil Painting and Life Drawing For more information visit www.northernartsclub.co.uk

Children In Need On 15th November the normal high standard of uniform was relaxed as pupils took part

in a dress up day to raise money for children in need. The fundraising was led by S4 pupil Zoe Ross and friends who were also raising awareness about the alopecia. Pupils and staff raised an incredible £1044 during the day – a tremendous achievement.

Session 2013 – 2014 Term 2: 28 Oct 2013 - 20 Dec2013 · Term Ends – Fri 20 Dec · Xmas Holiday – Mon 23 Dec 2013 to Fri 3 Jan 2014 Term 3: 6 Jan 2014 - 4 Apr 2014 · Term starts – Mon 6 Jan 2014

KINGSWELLS

PRIMARY SCHOOL Kingswells at Loch insh P7 pupils went to Loch Insh on the 2nd of September 2013 for 5 days. It was a brilliant experience for all of us. It gave us an opportunity to do so many sports and activities. I for one enjoyed just about everything.

Saturday Life Drawing Class 10am-1pm Tutor Ian Smart contact 484040

There was something for everyone. The activities included wind surfing, sailing, problem solving, canoeing, raft building, kayaking, skiing, mountain biking and something new called “The wide game.”

Bridge Tuition Beginner and Intermediate - Thursday evening, contact Margaret 868230

There is a video that was made of everyone taking part in all the activities. When we saw it, all of us walked out of the room blushing!

Just Dance Presents… Magical Moments Thursday 26th – Saturday 28th June 2014, 7:00 pm Aberdeen Arts Centre & Theatre

The whole experience of being away from home with our friends was great. The instructors were fantastic, they taught us wonderful tips and goofed around with us too!

I would totally recommend going to Loch Insh to all children when they reach P7.

Holly, Primary 7

The Just Dance team of children and adults (led by Jean Darker), will be staging a show of their own for the very first time! Join us for a dazzling performance involving minimovers, tap, jazz and hip hop action, a show full of magical fun!

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9

News from Councillor Delaney Winter has finally arrived with snow on the ground as I type! We’ve been lucky up to now weather wise, but now it’s time to face reality and wrap up warm. If you see me going around Kingswells in my heavy coat, beanie hat and Dr Who scarf, I’m not trying to go incognito, I’m probably just cold!

This has been another busy year representing what some would consider being a “quiet area”.

There’s always plenty going on and I enjoy the challenges I face, even more so when they turn out successful! I value the time people take to make contact with me and draw relevant issues to my attention. It’s only when we work together that we can make a real difference.

One area where such a difference can be made is in crime prevention. There have been a number of thefts in Kingswells arising from unlocked doors and unlocked cars. We all expect people to be as honest as we are ourselves and we’ve all left premises and vehicles unsecured for a few minutes while we go off to do something else. This is where opportunist thieves strike and there have been a larger than normal number of these occurring in recent months. Sometimes it’s an unlocked vehicle and other times an unlocked front door gives access to the car keys. The biggest risk at this time of year is leaving car keys in the ignition with the engine on while clearing the car of snow or frost. I’m not going to labour this point, but we all need to be more aware as our area is being targeted.

On a different subject I’d like to pay tribute to Jayne Glover on her retirement as head of Kingswells Primary. Jayne has led the school for the past seven years to become one of our top performing educational establishments. Kingswells School may well represent excellence in learning but it is also a happy place to be, with each child encouraged and supported to reach his or her full potential.

The outdoor classroom has been renovated and brought back into use by parents as a tribute to Jayne’s tenure and the difference she has made to our children’s lives. There is a commemorative plaque in her honour. Jayne’s enthusiasm and her kind, warm personality will be missed and I would like to wish her a long and happy retirement. She will be a hard act to follow.

Following on from my comments in the last issue, I’m not going to re-hash the arguments about the Kingswells roundabout, suffice to say a Safety Audit has been completed and the outcome will be known soon. On related matters, a couple of commonsense decisions were taken on planning matters recently. I say this with some scepticism, given other recent issues which have impacted on our community.

Permission for an office development was granted on the site of the Ardene House Veterinary Practice. The decision was not unexpected but the permission states that the offices (which are meant to be accessed via the A944) cannot be occupied until such times as either the AWPR is open or an alternative access (avoiding the A944) has been put in place. Otherwise gridlock was likely at the new roundabout, so I’m pleased to see that having been avoided.

Outline permission was granted for the Maidencraig development (on the Lang Stracht) where 750 homes are proposed. The detailed planning applications have yet to be determined, but the outline permission has limited the numbers to 182 prior to the opening of the AWPR. Again, I’m pleased to see the acknowledgement that the current infrastructure will not cope with the increased traffic prior to the opening of the AWPR. My surgeries are held on the first Tuesday of each month at Kingswells Community Centre. I also hold surgeries at Sheddocksley Community Centre, Sumburgh Crescent on the last Monday of every month. Both surgeries are held at 6.30pm term time only. You can of course contact me by phone or email at other times.

All that remains is for me to wish all residents health and happiness over the festive season.

Remember it’s the season of goodwill, so take care of each other and those around you who may not have family around to lift up their spirits.

I’d also like to extend seasonal good wishes to all the volunteers in Kingswells who give their time freely to organise clubs, events, fundraisers and such like and really make things happen in our community. Your good work is appreciated by all.

Regards, Steve Delaney Home Tel: 01224 694469 Work Tel: 01224 346614 Email:sdelaney@aberdeencity.gov.uk Web: www.delaney.org.uk Facebook: CllrDelaney Twitter: CllrDelaney

traditional Scottish

music, song and dance classes Want to find out more?

Our traditional music, song & dance evening classes are held at Harlaw Academy, Aberdeen.

Visit our website for more information on classes and watch our new video to see what we do. Online booking for our Spring Term opens in December with classes running from 13 January to 24 March. For all class enquiries including alternative ways to book please contact us using the details below.

Like us on facebook and sign up to receive our Email newsletters.

Our class programme includes: fiddle guitar bodhran pipes banjo clarsach flute mixed instruments session playing tin whistle mandolin harmonica ukulele accordion scots song ceilidh dance mixed percussion gaelic song w www.scottishculture.org e office@scottishculture.org t 07754 758677 Scottish Culture and Traditions Association (SC&T). A company limited by guarantee No 231578.

Registered in Scotland. Registered Office: 42 Carden Place, Aberdeen. Scottish Charity No.SCO 27559

10

www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk

e: gazette@fsmail.net

t: 07813 964 875

News from Councillor Ironside It’s nearly the end of another busy year and I must say the issues raised with me have been many and varied.

Issues like poor road markings, lack of quality broadband, litter, Bus timetables, vandalism, flooding, development of land for business, new Quality hotel, travelling people and the use of the park and ride site.

However I am pleased to say there have been resolutions on all of these issues to varying degrees.

Kingswells continues to be an outstanding example of a quality suburb of Aberdeen City. A place where people care and look after the village.

I thank everyone who has engaged my help in the last year.

Hopefully I have resolved your problems. Its been good to meet so many people who take an active part in looking after their environment.

May I wish you all sincere seasonal greetings and a prosperous New Year.

Cllr Len Ironside CBE

westhill

podiatry & chiropody practice we take care of your feet

www.westhillpodiatry.co.uk

westhillpodiatry@gmail.com

TRACEY WHITE

News from Westminster The Giving Tree Appeal Many of you will have read recent reports about more families struggling to make ends meet and turning to charities for support. Instant Neighbour is one such local charity which has been providing assistance to the poor and vulnerable in Aberdeen since 1984. I know from the contact I have had with the charity over the years, the great work it does including, but not limited to, providing affordable household items and food packages to people on low incomes.

I was happy to lend my support to the Charity’s recently launched Giving Tree appeal, now in its 23rd year, designed to ensure that children living in poverty in the North East have a present to open on Christmas Day. You will probably be familiar with the Giving Trees which appear in shopping centres in the run up to Christmas, adorned with large gift tags with the name and age of a child. Over 6000 gifts are distributed annually and I know that Instant Neighbour was hoping to receive a record number of gift donations this year by the time that the appeal closed on 2nd December.

Yours sincerely Frank Doran MP Aberdeen North 69 Dee Street, Aberdeen, AB11 6EE

BSc DPodM MCHS (PODIATRIST/CHIROPODIST)

PODIATRY HOME VISITS AVAILABLE

ANNETTE MACPHERSON – CHARTERED PHYSIOTHERAPIST MCSP, HCPC, AACP, APPI CHARLOTTE TRIBE – GENERAL CHIROPRACTOR MCHIRO, CCT, DC

Email: frank.doran.mp@parliament.uk, Tel: (01224) 252 715

CLAIRE KELLY – MASSAGE THERAPIST DSM, DOSM, BSYA NUTRI, MASC, SMTO

MARIA DOW - DIETITIAN MSC, RD, MBDA FRANCES SCOTT – REFLEXOLOGIST, REIKI, AROMATHERAPY MAR, HND SAM MENZIES - REFLEXOLOGIST MAR

Family, friendly Italian Restaurant (under new management) Lite Bite Lunch Menu Two Course Lunch Menu £9.95 A la carte Menu Christmas Bookings Tel : 01224 743264

Kirkton of Skene, Westhill, Aberdeenshire AB32 6XE Tel: 01224 743264 Hours: Mon - Closed Tues - Thur: 12pm - 3pm & 5pm- late Fri and Sat 12pm - late Sun: 12pm - 9pm

Please do mention Kingswells Community News when responding to advertisers - thank you

11

Need help walking your dog?

Allana Massie formally of Aristacut Cults and Riah Hair Design Banchory.

Now working within Kimz 543 Great Western Road, Aberdeen, AB10 6PE. To make an appointment call on 01224 319400.

Experienced Community Carers, are urgently required for Home Care in Kingswells, Bucksburn and Peterculter.

We have both Full and Part Time opportunities available and excellent rates of pay are on offer. It will be necessary for the successful applicants to be available every second weekend.

Please call Doreen Hillis on 01224-628700 or email: doreen.hillis@raeburn.com

All applicants are subject to a P.V.G. disclosure.

Call to see how I can help you

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: Tuesday 9.30 – 11.30 am Advanced Tuesday 2.00 – 4.00 pm Intermediate Tuesday 7.30 – 9.30 pm Post - Intermediate Thursday 9.30 – 11.30 am Post - Intermediate Thursday 7.30 – 9.30 pm Post - Beginners Friday 9.30 – 11.30 am Beginners (starts 17th Jan 2014) new Friday 2.00 – 4.00 pm Post - Beginners Individual lessons are also available.

For further info, please contact Enrica Conti: Tel: 07786 827714 Email: enrica.conti@tiscali.co.uk

Hypnotherapist Tel: 01224 321559

Jim Daniel Advanced Clinical Hypnotherapist/ Hypnohealer established 1994.

Dealing successfully with depression, lack of confidence, feelings of insecurity, panic attacks, blushing and addictive behaviour.

Children welcome. www.aberdeen-hypnotherapy.com

Ruth Peace Complementary Therapist Kingswells Tel Kingswells : 279459 Mob: 07940 012679

For better health and wellbeing Offering Massage, Reiki and Ear candling.

Reflexology coming soon!

For more information contact

Prepare for the 'party season' at Kumiko Jenny working together with Bea.

Ruth - 0783 5309 999 Find me on Facebook at Peacehaven Complementary Therapies

Home Visiting Practice

Routine and Preventative Foot Care Corns/Hard Skin Verrucae Toenail Cutting

Trudi C Deans

DipCFHP MPSPract

Foot Health Care Practitioner

T : 07598 382 597

are offering the following packages up to 30 Dec ‘13

30min Dermalogica Express face treatment

+ Gel Manicure .....£60

30min Dermalogica Express face treatment

+ Gel Pedicure .....£65

30min Dermalogica Express face treatment + Make-Up.....£70

For Hogmanay Day ONLY! 20min brightening face treatment + Party Make Up ......£70 Term's & Conditions's apply see in salon for details

Tel : 01224 594777 Mob: 07843 054 393 (text or call) Email : jenny@kumikobeauty.co.uk www.kumikobeauty.co.uk 89 Gray Street, Aberdeen AB10 6JD

12

Compu-Care

the oven valet

Call Neil 07539-462-064 PC Repairs and Upgrades Aberdeen based. No call out fee. Collect and return service. New systems available. £15ph standard pc repairs. £25ph networking/internet www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk

oven cleaners

service with a sparkle*

01330 823079 07920 483 233

www.theovenvalet.com info@theovenvalet.com

e: gazette@fsmail.net

t: 07813 964 875

ry

Ab

e

nt

een Carpe d r

WE WILL TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF YOUR HOME IMPROVEMENTS and supply all the services to see the job through start to finish

Our promise:

Pack a few essential items into your car, such as a blanket, shovel, torch, phone charger and even some food items, so that if you should get into difficulty, you are prepared.

To provide our customers with the highest standards of quality, efficiency and professionalism

*

*

Police Scotland have recently launched the 'This Christmas stay safe' campaign, the main advice as listed below:

*

DOMESTIC COMMERCIAL

• • • • • •

Full Joinery Services Doors - External & Internal Finishings, Skirtings & Facings Wood Flooring & Laminate Fitted Kitchens Decking

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Aberdeen Carpentry

50

WORKING TOGETHER

FOR A NO OBLIGATION QUOTE OR ENQUIRIES CONTACT: T: 01224 248247 Les: (M) 07961 557 430 Doug: (M) 07983 744 727 www.aberdeencarpentry.com

Y EXP EARS ERIE NCE

BLINDS DIRECT

15% OFF all orders FREE Quotation and Fitting Specialists in Conservatory Blinds

It's that time of year again when the dark nights, cold air and even snow return. This can cause a whole new set of problems but taking a little time to be prepared will ensure you have a safer winter period.

.

Verticals

. Rollers

Wood Venetians . Romans . Pleated New Intu Blinds . Velux 01224 745759 . 07941 704 506

Blinds Direct will guarantee to beat any like for like quote!

Contact: Nicol Meldrum 30 Coull Green, Kingswells, Aberdeen AB15 8TR blindsdirectaberdeen@googlemail.com www.blindsdirectaberdeen.com

• Plan ahead for your night out • Stay together – look out for friends • Watch your drinks and how much you drink • Keep bags and valuables with you at all times • Make sure your phone is charged, you have money to

get home and look after your keys • Use a licensed taxi, public transport or arrange a lift.

Shop safe • Look after your bags and valuables • Do not withdraw more money than you need • Put your money in your wallet/bag before leaving ATM • Hide your PIN number • Don’t leave gifts in cars or in plain sight at home • Close and lock all doors and windows and leave some

lights on when you go out Each year we target drivers who chose to drink and drive. This year will be no different and extra patrols will be dedicated to keep our roads and you safe.

As always if you see anything you feel is unusual or suspicious, please get in touch on the non-emergency number 101, through crimestoppers or if an emergency 999. We are happy to check it out.

Finally, I wish to thank you all for your vigilance and for taking responsibility for your personal belongings and area. Working together with increased reports of suspicious activity and policing patrols we hope to make Kingswells a safer and crime free area.

Best wishes for the Festive Season and New Year.

Jackie Craig Bucksburn Community Policing Team Inspector

New indoor bowlers required.

Anyone is welcome to come along to the Community Centre to the bowling sessions and give it a try. We do have some spare bowls, so even if you are a complete novice you’ll be made very welcome. So come and give it a try - no-one takes it serious and it's a pleasant way to pass an hour or two.

Please do mention Kingswells Community News when responding to advertisers - thank you

13

“Love to Sing” Day - FREE to all men

The small band with the big sound. Sounds from the 50’s to present including Country and traditional Scottish music using midi accordion as well as Tyros hi-tech keyboards. contact phone: 07731 461 222 email: arlenedougsound1@btinternet.com website: www.arlenedougsound.com (best accessed via google)

Fire your imagination

Within our local community we have a wide variety of musical and artistic groups, many of whom are benefitting from renewed public interest in choral singing, influenced for example, by Gareth Malone’s TV series “The Choir”.

Aberdeen’s own Granite City Chorus is one group of enthusiastic men who would love to share their singing experiences with others and encourage more men to take advantage of all the positive benefits which stem from being a member of an active choral group.

Apart from the social benefits, singing is officially good for your health! Many clinical studies have reported a variety of health benefits including better posture, higher energy levels, enhanced feelings of relaxation, mood, and confidence and we’re often told we look better! Psychological benefits are also evident when people sing together because of the increased sense of community, belonging and shared purpose.

The chorus currently has around forty five members with a wide variation in age and musical ability, who all love to sing and are addicted to ringing chords in four part unaccompanied harmony. The chorus performs at local events and festivals throughout the year appearing at many local venues and corporate functions and also travels to compete in various competitions having performed as far away as Dublin and Bournemouth.

The chorus is holding a free one day “Love to Sing” event at the Doubletree Hotel, Beach Boulevard on Sunday 19th Jan 2014, between 10am and 4pm. Aimed at encouraging both new singers and existing singers to come along and experience a day of music and voice coaching in an informal and friendly environment. No prior singing experience is necessary for this fun, unique and enjoyable day out, which could just turn out to be your new addiction!

Opening Hours

Monday to Friday 09:00- 17:00 Saturday 09:00- 16:00 Closed Sunday

So come along and find or rediscover your singing voice.

Absolutely no commitment - just enjoying the day is fine.

29-37 Baker Street Aberdeen AB25 1UR 01224 647800

Details and registration available at:• • •

www.granitecitychorus.co.uk or 07909 108633 or email at granitecitychorus@hotmail.co.uk

email :- sales@flamesaberdeen.co.uk

www.flamesaberdeen.co.uk 14

www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk

e: gazette@fsmail.net

t: 07813 964 875

Beauty Treatments: Uncovered

Celebrating ten years in Aberdeen, Ciao Napoli welcome you to join them over the festive period for a Neapolitan Christmas lunch or dinner.

As I promised to start pampering myself more often I popped along to try out a new technique being offered at Kumiko. Vitalift - a non invasive face lift treatment.

The Christmas menu is available from 1st December and can be found at www.ciaonapoli.co.uk or call for more details.

On 31st December celebrate Hogmanay in style with a Neapolitan set-dinner.

Ciao Napoli is conveniently located 5 minutes from Union Street, in Aberdeen City Centre at 10 Bon Accord Crescent, Aberdeen, AB11 6DN

Open for Lunch Mon-Sat 12-2.30pm Open for Dinner Mon-Sat 5.30-1030pm (last orders)

10 years

10 years

For more details please contact us on

t : 01224 213223

w : www.ciaonapoli.co.uk You can now follow us on

Please note we will be closed on 25th & 26th December and 1st & 2nd January

It started off with a very nice face clean! (Not my usual soap and water!) Then Jenny placed little red and black electrodes on the key areas of my face. Jenny was excellent at explaining exactly what was happening with every step of the way. We then did a test run! No, I didn’t jump off the table; it was a very gentle increase in power to the point of almost not feeling anything at all. At any time I could ask for the pressure to be reduced or increased.

It is a little tingling feeling – I suppose a bit like a massage chair – if you’ve used one of them. Where the pressure starts off small and when it hits the right spot it intensifies. Once I got used to the lighter touch we increased the power and you could feel it a little more but it wasn’t in any way unpleasant.

I had a lovely hand and arm massage whilst the electrodes were doing their stuff which was equally as good! It was a shame when it finished as I did enjoy it. Of course I had to have a good look in the mirror when all was done. And the two lines that are quite deep on my forehead were remarkably reduced, almost invisible!

These before and after shots below (a different client) clearly show the radiance in the skin and the restoration of firmness and tone, which in turn remodels the facial oval. To achieve optimum results recommended twice weekly for 5 weeks then once monthly to maintain.

10 for £495 = 9 plus 1 FREE

All eye examinations covered by NHS Optical Coherence Tomography for early diagnosis of Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration and Retinal Conditions.

Digital Retinal Photography Visual Field Analysis Emergency Eye Appointments Large range of Designer frames and specialised spectacle lenses

Single treatment (60mins) £55

So if you suffer from the effects of time, sun exposure and stress or you feel your skin is dull, or your cheeks and eyelids are drooping, and a few wrinkles are appearing then this might just be the answer to your prayers!

Accredited by RACH for Children’s Eye Examinations

NEW ‘Vitalift’ - Non Invasive Face Lift Treatment

Home Visits Free Car parking Open Late night Tuesday - 7pm & Saturday - 4pm scott Gilmour Bsc (Hons) MCoptom

5 The Courtyard, Cults, Aberdeen AB15 9SD

Telephone : 01224 - 863344 info@scottgilmouroptometrists.co.uk www.scottgilmouroptometrists.co.uk

Electrical stimulation making it possible to re-educate the facial muscles and perform electrolifting, restoring firmness and tone, re-model the facial oval and re-juvenate the face without scars or bruising from surgery or injecting.

For more information/to book an appointment please contact Jenny at 89 Gray Street,Aberdeen AB10 6JD t : 01224 594777 e: jenny@kumikobeauty.co.uk

www.kumikobeauty.co.uk

Please do mention Kingswells Community News when responding to advertisers - thank you

15

Restaurant

4th Room Lounge

fourmile HOUSE KINGSWELLS

Old Skene Road, Kingswells

t: 01224 740318 e: info@fourmile.co.uk w: www.fourmile.co.uk

4th Room Friday’s

Serving complimentary stovies every Friday between 5.00-6.30pm

Conferencing

20% Off

Your lunch or dinner food bill.

Mon-Fri valid til 28 Feb 2014*

and New Year’s Day

*Voucher can be used once & for FOOD only. Only one voucher per table. Voucher cannot be exchanged for cash.