PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

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Today’s target: 14 words average 20 words good 28+ words excellent

Find words of four letters or more. Every word must include the centre letter and each letter is used once only. Find at least one nine-letter word. No colloquial or foreign words, capitalised nouns, apostrophes, hyphens. No verbs or plural words ending in ‘s’. Solution list is not exhaustive. Ref: Macquarie Dictionary

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Peacemaker Venus encourages you to repair a rickety relationship in a generous and philosophical way. Family celebrations and work functions are favoured, as Mars (in your domestic zone) connects with Mercury (in your job zone). So it’s a terrific time to connect with creative, proactive people and share your dreams for the future with family members and work colleagues. Others are looking for you to come up with the goods, so don’t disappoint!

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

Diplomatic Venus (your power planet) and Jupiter increase optimism and help you reform a close relationship that’s been experiencing problems. Setting positive new patterns of behaviour sees the union move to a more enjoyable and satisfying level. This week, nurture loved ones in practical ways. Perhaps you can help with shopping, errands, cooking, housework or homework? Sunday is wonderful for financial matters and socialising with friends.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

It’s one of your luckiest weeks of the year, so prepare to pounce. Jupiter (in your sign) and Venus boost confidence and self-esteem as you power through projects with renewed confidence and plenty of chutzpah. You’re also keen to make connections with others, as the planets highlight your family and friendship zones. So it’s a terrific time to initiate ideas and make waves within your circle of influence. Positive collaborations are the secret to future success.

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

Calling all Crabs – mighty Mars is visiting your sign until November 4. So strive to be bold and brave as you initiate ideas, launch passion projects and zoom ahead in progressive directions.

Prosperous Venus and Jupiter help you turn dreams into gold. If you devise a creative plan, then financial luck is waiting in the wings via a new colleague, client or customer, who may be linked to a family member. Volunteer work also looks rewarding.

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

This week the Sun (your ruling planet) is visiting earthy Virgo. So clear, careful, logical communication will help improve relations with other people, as you get your message out loud and clear. Venus and Jupiter also encourage you to reach out and help others, both within your immediate circle of family and friends and within your local neighbourhood. The close community connections you foster now will prove beneficial in the future.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

On Thursday there’s a lovely Mercury/Mars link, which boosts individuality, confidence levels and communication skills. With the Sun and Mercury (your patron planet) both moving through your sign, it’s your time to shine! Be inspired by Virgo superstar Freddie Mercury: “Someone will always be prettier. Someone will always be smarter; someone will always be younger. But they will never be you.” Lady Luck is on your side on Sunday.

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22) Venus (your ruling planet) is visiting your sign until September 23, so your charismatic and diplomatic sides will be shining brightly for all to see. There is also a terrific Venus/Jupiter trine, which blesses personal projects and encourages international travel and interstate adventures.

Don’t be a Libran wallflower. Get out there and enjoy yourself to the max! Your motto is from birthday great, writer D. H. Lawrence: “Life is ours to be spent, not to be saved.”

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Powerful Pluto – your boss planet – has moved back into your education, communication and community zones (until November 19). So it’s a good time to revisit any unfinished business involving study, social media, siblings, neighbours and projects in your local neighbourhood. Courtesy of the terrific Venus/Jupiter trine, it’s also a suitable week to draw up exciting plans, set ambitious goals, and dream big dreams. If you can dream it, you can do it!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21) Sunday’s lucky Venus-Jupiter link encourages you to broaden your horizons – physically, mentally and spiritually. It’s time to expand your circle of influence and make positive connections within your peer group and further afield. Be more generous with loved ones, more adventurous in your choices, and more ambitious with your dreams. Draw inspiration from birthday great D. H. Lawrence: “I want to live my life so that my nights are not full of regrets.”

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

The Sun and Mercury are moving through fellow earth sign Virgo, so you’ll be extra bold and brainy this week as you dazzle others with your methodical mind, broad general knowledge and close attention to details. So it’s the perfect time to analyse, research and problem-solve in proactive ways. With the power of positive thinking on your side, you can climb any mountain and sail any stormy sea. But proceed cautiously with a pompous colleague or client.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18) You love being independent. But this week’s stars favour nurturing partnerships, establishing joint ventures and stabilising your support network, as the planets stimulate your relationship zones. If you’re single, sparks could fly with someone from another country or culture. But avoid making an impulsive financial move that could lead to over-spending. Getting into more debt is a recipe for trouble – by all means have fun, but don’t break the bank.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

With the Sun and Mercury in your relationship zone, being creative about solving problems is the key to positive partnerships. Stop procrastinating and, instead, start communicating about what you really require. Don’t expect other people to magically read your mind. Be articulate and ask plenty of questions. Mars is moving through your self-expression zone. So it’s time for artistic pursuits like photography, art, dance, drama, singing, writing and music.

Kate Peter’s Top Hat Productions Proudly Presents For your Amusement, Enjoyment & Participation

“Piccadilly Olde Time Music Hall” A touring show at Ballina Players’ Theatre.

The show is a rollicking musical revue featuring songs which featured in the Olde Time Music Hall shows of London, derived from the taproom concerts given in city taverns in England during the 18th and 19th centuries, and during WW1.

It features a cast of some of the Gold Coast’s best-loved and talented singers and dancers, including:

KIRRI ADAMS, DEAN GILTINEN, KATE PETERS, GRANT EBELING, PATRICK OXLEY, CHRIS HAWKINS, GAI BYRNE, and KATRINA LARDNER

SONGS INCLUDE:

• OH, WHAT A BEAUTY!

• CHAMPAGNE

CHARLIE

• THE MAN WHO BROKE THE BANK AT MONTE CARLO

• SECOND HAND ROSE

• YOUR BABY HAS GONE DOWN THE PLUGHOLE

• THE PHEASANT PLUCKER

• HOWDÝA LIKE TO SPOON WITH ME

• IF I WERE NOT UPON THE STAGE and many more! Enhanced by an amusing Master of Ceremonies and background images of the music hall time in London.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Friday 13th - Sunday 15th of September.

• Where: Ballina Players Theatre

• Price: $35

• Tickets: Via the QR code

Iconic Aussie rockers Grinspoon are back with their frst new music in 12 years, having just shared ‘Unknown Pretenders’ – the frst glimpse of their new album, ‘whatever, whatever’ that’s set for release on August 9, and they’ve announced a whopping 49 date ‘whatever, whenever, wherever’ tour to celebrate. Keen to give all Grinners fans the opportunity to get to a show, the band will be hitting every nook around Aus, heading back to some venues they haven’t played at in over 20 years.

As Phil eagerly said, “This thing ain’t for the faint hearted. To say we’re excited is a massive understatement!

Over the last 6 years we have played arenas and stadiums and theaters and what not, and it’s all been tremendous and we have loved every minute of it, but there is nothing like the 3 hour drive after a show, the 9am checkout from the hotel, and the frst stop to get a chicko roll and strawberry milk - black coffee for me, I am now an adult!”

Be quick to book!

This Northern Rivers show kicks off the tour in the region it began & will sell out fast. NB: Grinspoon has arranged a limited number of tickets to be made available for All Ages (12+ ) to attend, while allocation lasts.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Tuesday 17th of September @7pm

• Where: Ballina RSL

• Tickets: Via the QR code

Award winning songwriter and sunshiny festival favourite Alana Wilkinson is taking her debut album ‘Half Time Oranges’ on the road. Alana is a multitalented singersongwriter known for her infectious energy, witty lyrics, and captivating stage presence. Blending folk, pop and comedy, her performances are a delightful mix of heartfelt songs and humorous anecdotes that leave audiences both laughing and refecting. Alana’s engaging storytelling and melodic prowess make her a standout artist in the

Australian music scene.

Following the release of 5 singles over the last 6 months, Alana Wilkinson’s debut LP ‘Half Time Oranges’ has exploded confetti style into the folk world. This body of work covers each corner of Wilkinson’s world with love songs written for tiny people (Dream Big, Charlie’s Song) to a love song written to an orange tree (Sway). A romance kindled by a kinky dream (‘Show You Mine’) to accidentally fashing a boob to the postman (With A Boob Out). It’s honest, it’s true and it’s full of classic ‘Alana’ moments you’re sure to see yourself in. Don’t miss your opportunity to see Alana Wilkinson bring these moments to life. Get ready to laugh, cry, and be inspired when she arrives at a small hall or venue near you.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Friday 13th of September @7pm

• Where: Kulchajam, Byron Bay

• Price: From $27.05

• Tickets: Via the QR code

Flying is a marvel of modern technology, yet for many, the thought of boarding an aircraft evokes feelings of dread and anxiety. Fear of fying, also known as aviophobia, affects a signifcant portion of the population, keeping them from experiencing the joys of travel. But with the right strategies, overcoming this fear is not only possible—it can also open up a world of opportunities and adventures. Here’s how you can conquer your fear of fying and embrace the freedom of the skies.

Understanding the Fear

The frst step in overcoming the fear of fying is understanding where it comes from. For some, it’s a fear of heights or enclosed spaces. For others, it’s the lack of control or the thought of a catastrophic event. The fear may also stem from a negative past experience or simply the fear of the unknown. Understanding the root cause of your anxiety can help you address it more effectively.

Educate Yourself

About Flying Knowledge is power when it comes to conquering fears. Learning about how airplanes work, the rigorous safety measures in place, and the statistics that prove fying is one of the safest modes of transportation can signifcantly reduce anxiety. For example, it might be reassuring to know that modern aircraft are designed to withstand extreme conditions and that pilots undergo extensive training to handle any situation. Familiarise yourself with the sounds and sensations of fying—like the hum of the engines or the feeling of turbulence—so they don’t catch you off guard.

Start with Grounded Experiences

Before even setting foot on a plane, you can begin addressing your fear through grounded experiences. Visit an airport and observe planes taking off and landing, or try a fight simulator to get a sense of what fying feels like without leaving the ground. Some airports and airlines offer fear of fying courses that include sessions with pilots and psychologists who can provide insights and coping strategies.

Gradual Exposure

One effective method for overcoming fear is gradual exposure. Start small with short, domestic fights before working your way up to longer, international journeys. By taking baby steps, you can gradually build confdence and reduce anxiety. During your initial fights, consider booking a seat in a part of the plane where you feel most comfortable, whether that’s near the wing to minimise turbulence or in an aisle seat for more room to move.

Medication and Relaxation Techniques

For some, medication may be a helpful tool in overcoming the fear of fying. Speak with your doctor about short-term options such as antianxiety medications or sleep aids that can help you relax during a fight. However, medication should be seen as a temporary aid rather than a long-term solution. In addition to or instead of medication, relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation can be benefcial. These techniques help calm the nervous system, making it easier to manage anxiety during the fight.

Focus on the Destination

One way to shift your focus away from the fear is to concentrate on the excitement of your destination. Visualise the experiences you’ll have once you arrive—the sights, the sounds, the people you’ll meet. Remind yourself that the discomfort of fying is temporary, but the memories you’ll create will last a lifetime.

Seek Support

You don’t have to overcome your fear of fying alone. Talk to friends or family members who enjoy fying and ask them to share their experiences.

You can also join online forums or support groups where you can connect with others who have similar fears. Hearing success stories and receiving encouragement can be incredibly motivating.

Celebrate Progress

Finally, it’s important to celebrate your successes, no matter how small. Each fight you take, each step you make towards conquering your fear, is an achievement. Keep a journal of your experiences and note how your anxiety decreases over time. Recognising your progress will boost your confdence and reinforce your belief that you can overcome your fear.

Embrace the Journey Overcoming a fear of fying is a process, and it may take time, but the rewards are well worth the effort. By facing your fear head-on, educating yourself, and taking gradual steps, you can learn to embrace the journey and open yourself up to a world of new possibilities. The sky is no longer the limit—it’s your gateway to adventure.