Different CHAT
I just overheard a conversation between two women in a cafe who were discussing how they felt about their lives. They flitted seamlessly from one subject to the next but the thread that ran through everything was how unpredictable life is, how expensive basic expenses have become and the sense they both had that when one domestic appliance breaks everything else seems to follow. The overwhelming sense was one of panic and a total lack of influence over their lives.
None of this is helped by the fact that the media is chock full of doom and gloom. No matter how many chats I have about the benefit of a digital detox where we just don’t listen to those headlines, some people find that too hard to do and are afraid of missing some vital information that they really need to have. I am certainly not dismissing the fact that an increasingly large number of people are finding day to day life harder and harder and feel that they can’t see even a glimmer of light in all this darkness. But, difficult as it may be, developing a habit of seeing the good things in our lives, however small, is one of the most positive things we can ever do for ourselves. Gradually re-balancing our thinking and our focus is a powerful technique. Most of us have no influence at all on those global issues and the only thing we can do anything about is our own lives and maybe we can change those conversations with our friends to reflect that instead.
The Life Coaching column is contributed by Francine Orr, NLP coach, hypnotherapist & reiki practitioner. Francine is based within Linlithgow Chiropractic on Wednesday afternoons and is also available online. See www.orrganise.co.uk
NOVEMBER CROSSWORD
ACROSS: 7. Factual books (13), 8.Announced (8), 9. Concerts (4), 10. Large church (7), 12. Main artery in the body (5), 14. Small dog (5), 16. Removal of data (7), 19. Unsuccessful (4), 20. Clapping (8), 22. Protest march (13).
DOWN: 1. Leg joint (4), 2. Rides a bike (6), 3. Frightened (7), 4. Used for digging (5), 5. Slowly (6), 6. Female child (8), 11. Remote (8), 13. Get ready (7), 15. Eight pints (6), 17. Begins (6), 18. Artificial (5), 21. Work hard (4).
The crossword solution will be published in the December edition
Staying physically active in old age is essential for maintaining good health and improving overall well-being.
Regular exercise can help prevent a range of health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and some forms of cancer. It can also help to maintain mobility, strength, and balance, which are crucial for preventing falls and maintaining independence.
Older adults can benefit from a variety of physical activities, such as walking, swimming, cycling, yoga, and strength training. It’s important to find activities that you enjoy and that are suitable for your fitness level and health status.
If you’re just starting out, it’s important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your exercise. Everyone should
break up the amount of time being sedentary throughout the day, and physical activity can include anything that involves moving your body more often - such as dance, gardening, or even housework.
Remember, it’s never too late to start exercising, and even small amounts of activity can have a big impact on both your mental and physical health.
There are organisations that run groups across West Lothian to help adults over the age of 50 stay active. For more information check out Home Instead’s What’s On Where Guide, which has a list of over 200 local groups and activities that are available across the local area for ageing adults.
Visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/west-lothian/ whats-on-where to view the guide.
The Living Well column is contributed by Home Instead West Lothian. Contact them for advice and support on 01506 346046, email info.westlothian@homeinstead.co.uk or see www.homeinstead.co.uk/west-lothian
Blackness Bay Distillery is offering Konect readers the chance to win a Tasting Tour for Two!
The tour comprises the full 90-minute guided tour of Blackness Bay Distillery, taking in the history of Blackness and craft distilling of whisky and rum in Scotland through the ages to the present day, whilst sampling five or more of the products produced by hand on the premises.
The timeless method of the traditional Scottish twin copper pot still making of
whisky directly from malted barley is explained in detail with anecdotes of its perils and pleasures. The tour finishes with a toast to Mary Queen of Scots and her long connection to Blackness on Sea.
Winners every week through November! We are drawing a winning entry every week in November so there are four chances to win!
For the chance to win, simply answer the following question:
WHAT TYPE OF SPIRIT DOES BLACKNESS BAY DISTILLERY PRODUCE?
A) Rum B) Whisky C) Both Whisky & Rum
Closing date for entries Sat 30th November 2024
Head to www.konect.scot/win or scan the QR code to enter your answer. Winners will receive a tour voucher from Blackness Bay Distillery which must be used within four weeks of receipt. Full T&Cs are on our website.
Houseplants are not just for Christmas but they do make lovely gifts. And for younger members of the family cacti, succulents and carnivorous plants are fascinating and very easy to look after… until they go off to university without their plants!
But as we are now spending more time indoors with poorer weather and dark evenings, it is a good time to choose some new houseplants to cheer up and decorate your home. Also some old friends are maybe due to go on the compost heap as a kindness to you and them.
Most houseplants originally come from temperate rainforests and love the light levels we can offer them inside, but our rooms are generally too dry for them so they enjoy being arranged in a group to increase the humidity around them. Keep them in
their own pot covers so you can easily rearrange them or replace any poor ones. Some plants demand a warm room while other will cope with a cooler room. Jasmine, Hyacinth bulbs, Primroses and Cyclamen can be brought into a warm room when you have guests but pop them back into their cooler homes at night to make the flowers
Don’t miss out! LATE NIGHT
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING
The Gardening Project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.
Open until 7:30pm on Thursdays November 14th, 21st & 28th
Free parking out of town & no crowds!
I haven’t been out on the local patch much lately and the plan for this month’s article was to use an image from my visit to the Isle of Bute today.
In my head, I’d have a picture of three otters doing a tap-dance on the rocks with an amusing story to go along with it. Unfortunately, wildlife doesn’t do what you want and apparently the otters didn’t get the tap dancing memo. It’s a bit rude, if you ask me. However, I was armed with the most delicious chocolate covered viennese whirl (or waltz, if you’re my husband. Not the type of dance I was looking for) and ambitions were high.
From this picture of a male stonechat, you can probably gather that my plans for the day didn’t quite work out. We did see an otter but we lost it as quickly as we found it, which is quite common with these mischievous mustelids.
We only had a few hours and otters can be tricky. I spent a week on Mull last month where I went nearly a whole week without seeing one, so a few hours was always
going to be a challenge. We did see plenty wildlife on our day out, including ravens, buzzards, eider ducks, a kingfisher, and too many herons. It was one of those days where you realise that wildlife watching can be more miss, than hit. Nonetheless, I hope you enjoy this gorgeous wee bird instead.
This column is contributed by Clare Harte, who lives in West Lothian. Clare spends much of her time travelling around Scotland looking for and photographing our wonderful wildlife.
Follow her on social media as Clare Harte Photography for more wildlife content.
There’s not much that makes people do a major body swerve more than the sight of a dog wearing a muzzle heading towards them. Many people just automatically assume a dog has a muzzle on because it is aggressive. However, muzzles are worn for many reasons and most dogs wearing them don’t have a bite history. In fact, muzzles should be respected as a sign of a responsible owner.
Some dogs do wear muzzles because they are reactive but for others it can be because the breed is required to wear them by law, or the dog scavenges and eats unsuitable items, such as stones.
Muzzles may be required by a groomer or some travel companies, or for visits to the vet, when a dog is in pain or distress.
Therefore, it is handy to train your dog to wear a muzzle, and can be done at any age. Train it like a trick and make sure the dog doesn’t associate the muzzle with why it’s needed, such as a visit to the vets – for example put it on your dog at home when it is not stressed.
There are different types of muzzle – a fabric muzzle should only be worn for a short time, eg for an injection, as the dog cannot pant or drink. Plastic basket muzzle or rubber ultra muzzles can be worn longer but make sure they fit properly – badly-fitting muzzles can cause injuries.
Contributed by Stuart McMorrow, head vet at Westport Veterinary Clinic, 42 Mill Road, Linlithgow EH49 7SF 01506 844 165 | www.westportvets.com
Natural Food and Treats, Treat Boxes, Pate & Bulk Bags at Low Prices
NOVEMBER SUDOKU
The crossword puzzle can be found on page 12. See page 26 for solutions.
SOLUTION TO OCTOBER CROSSWORD
ACROSS: 1. Rafters, 5. Extra, 8. Textile, 9. Verbs, 10. Ridge, 11. Despair, 12. Twenty, 14. Abroad, 17. Nervous, 19. Rises, 22. Ideal, 23. Failure, 24. Noted, 25. Lighter. DOWN: 1. Rotor, 2. Fixed, 3. Evident, 4. Steady, 5. Elves, 6. Tornado, 7. Assured, 12. Tension, 13. Earnest, 15. Burning, 16. Useful, 18. Oiled, 20. Squat, 21. Spear.
SOLUTION TO OCTOBER CROSSWORD
SATURDAY 9TH NOVEMBER
Fireworks at Linlithgow Rugby Club - BBQ, bars, glow toys, tuck shop. Gates open 6.30pm, firework display 7.30pm. Tickets family £20, single £7, purchase in advance from Connells, Far from the Madding Crowd, Braehead Shop, Alexanders, The Thread Counter, Linlithgow Rugby Club Bar.
SUNDAY 17TH NOVEMBER
Autumn Concert - Linlithgow String Orchestra presents works by Vivaldi, Purcell and a Sequence for Remembrance. St Michael’s Parish Church, Linlithgow. 7.00pm. Tickets £10/£8 on the door or in advance via linlithgowstringorchestra.uk
SUNDAY 17TH NOVEMBER
ACROSS: 1. Rafters, 5. Extra, 8. Textile, 9. Verbs, 10. Ridge, 11. Despair, 12. Twenty, 14. Abroad, 17. Nervous, 19. Rises, 22. Ideal, 23. Failure, 24. Noted, 25. Lighter. DOWN: 1. Rotor, 2. Fixed, 3. Evident, 4. Steady, 5. Elves, 6. Tornado, 7. Assured, 12. Tension, 13. Earnest, 15. Burning, 16. Useful, 18. Oiled, 20. Squat, 21. Spear.
SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX
SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 24
Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.
Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU.
Magazine Design:
Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858
SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX
Tree planting at Witchcraig - West Lothian Rangers Service at Beecraigs Country Park are looking for volunteers to help plant native broadleaved trees at Witchcraig. We need volunteers to help us plant these saplings in the cooler and wetter months to give these young trees the best chance of success. All tools and a full tool safety talk will be provided by the Ranger. Bring gloves if you can, and wear appropriate clothing for the weather. Please bring any snacks and drinks you require. No prior experience is necessary and new volunteers are always welcome! The session will run for two hours starting at 10.00am, and the meeting place is at the Korean War Memorial, which is located on the road between Linlithgow and Bathgate.
SATURDAY 23RD NOVEMBER
Christmas Fair at Winchburgh Parish Church - A variety of local crafters selling handmade items and stocking fillers, as well as home baking, chocolate tombola and much, much more. Refreshments and breakfast rolls will be available throughout the fair. A warm welcome awaits. 10.00am – 1pm. Winchburgh Parish Church, EH52 6TT.
SATURDAY 23RD NOVEMBER
Linlithgow Christmas Market - Artisan crafts, handmade, upcycled and a variety of stalls. Drop in willow weaving sessions. Food and drink available on the day and to take home. Low Port Centre, 10.00am – 4.00pm.
SATURDAY 30TH NOVEMBER
Linlithgow Advent Fayre - Craft Fayre in Burgh Halls & Street Fair at the Cross from 10:30am. Torchlight procession from 5pm starting at Low Port Centre. Carols and Lights Switch-on at 6.00pm. All updates and info at the ‘Linlithgow Advent Fayre’ Facebook page.
SATURDAY 30TH NOVEMBER
Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.
Linlithgow Antique Vintage and Collectors FairOver 30 dealers, in Queen Margaret Hall, Blackness Road, Linlithgow, EH49 7JA. Early entry 9.00am £2, Public entry 10.00am til 3.00pm £1. Ample free parking, on-site catering disabled access. In aid of Linlithgow Heritage Trust. Contact Bob on 07946 045149.
Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU.
Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858
Rita is a lawyer who is stuck in a dead-end job in Mexico. She is given a task that could change her life. She is enlisted by Emilia, a cartel leader who wants to fake their death and live her authentic life as the woman she’s always wanted to be.
France’s Oscar nomination for Best International Feature is one of the most unique films of the year, a crime redemption story featuring fantastic lead performances. Karla Sofía Gascón as Emilia is truly incredible. Giving a career-defining performance and one that deserves all the love come award season. In addition, Zoe Saldaña is wonderful and as someone so used to hearing her speak only in English, hearing her speak in Spanish was a shock.
What I feel will be up for contention is the narrative. Some could view the thematic link, between the transition storyline and Emilia helping others find closure regarding cartel violence, to be problematic. However, I found the message to be that people can be forgiven, and anyone can do good and make positive change. It’s not perfect, though. I did find the ending to be kind of anti-climactic, and while it might be a hot take, I found Selena Gomez to be underwhelming.
Emilia Perez is a one-of-a-kind film. There is one aspect of the film that I haven’t even discussed, as I feel if you go in blind the opening scene will blow you away. This film should be on everyone’s watchlist.
In select cinemas from Oct 25th and available to stream on Netflix from Nov 13th .
The Film Review is contributed by Robert Ewing. Robert is passionate about film as an art form, and shining a light on films that may not be on people’s radar. Robert is from Kirknewton.
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...
LINLITHGOW SPEAKERS - Do you need to develop and improve your public speaking skills? We have been helping people in the Linlithgow area do that for almost 20 years. At our friendly, supportive and fun events, you will also improve your listening, thinking and leadership skills. Develop at your own pace and grow in confidence. When? Every second Tuesday. Where? Mel Gray Centre by Canal Basin. Dates and further info at www.linlithgowspeakers.org.uk Guests are always welcome.
LINLITHGOW AND DISTRICT ART GROUP
- Mixed group of amateur artists from beginners to more advanced members dabbling in mixed mediums. Professional tutors who develop our skills, outdoor painting trips, exhibition visits and gallery talks. Meet Tuesdays 7-9pm in the Community Hub 49 at the old library. We are a friendly bunch and welcome new members. Contact Brian E: brianmcdonagh1948@gmail.com T: 07909 577272 or Margaret E: magsbruce1@ bluehyonder.co.uk or T: 07906 021875. Facebook – Linlithgow & District Art Group
WEST LOTHIAN DADS OF NEURO DIVERSE
CHILDREN - A support Group for Dads and Granddads of neuro diverse children, providing a safe space to talk about the additional challenges and benefits we face. We meet up at 7pm on the last Thursday of every month at Cross House, Linlithgow, EH49 7AL. You can Join the Whatsapp group by messaging Richard on 07788 583445
WINCHBURGH SPEAKERS CLUB - Would you like to develop your speaking skills, overcome nerves, gain confidence, build strong leadership skills, and improve your communication in a relaxed and friendly environment? Come along or send us a message to find out how Winchburgh Speakers Club can help. We meet fortnightly in Winchburgh Primary School (from mid-August to May). Contact: president@ winchburghspeakersclub.org.uk
SAMBALISTIC - A friendly bunch of people covering all abilities and ages, enjoying drumming/ percussion together. Practice - Thursday evenings during term-time at Linlithgow Academy (7.309.30pm). All instruments supplied. No musical knowledge required. We offer performances throughout the year. You may have seen us at local galas/fairs! Why not come along and have a go? Or if you wish to discuss an event, just turn up on Thursday or email sambalistic@live.com
LINLITHGOW FLORAL ART CLUB - A friendly group who meet on third Wednesday of each month (Sept to May) in the Rose Social Club, Braehead Road, Linlithgow,
7:30 pm. Come along, bring a friend and sit back and enjoy an entertaining and colourful demonstration by a qualified demonstrator, followed by refreshments and a chat with your friends. All designs created in the demonstration are raffled. Contact Pamela Galloway for details, E: pjgalloway.18@gmail.com or T: 07742 060877
BADMINTON - LINLITHGOW - We play badminton at Springfield Community Centre on Mondays 1012noon during school terms. Open to all. If interested please contact Diana Marchant 01506 848625 or 07789 295 301
WINCHBURGH ART CLUB - We meet on Thursday mornings between 9.30 – 11.30 in Winchburgh Community Hall. Any level, any medium are all welcome. If interested, please contact 07980 321989 or email maureenandjohn1@hotmail.co.uk
WEST LOTHIAN EAGLES – AUSTRALIAN RULES FOOTBALL - Come along and try Australian Rules football! We are recruiting for the 2022 season for both our men’s and women’s teams. If you’re looking for a new sport, new friends and looking to get fitter then get in touch today! No experience is required and our team of coaches are on hand to teach you all there is to know! We train at Linlithgow Academy every Thursday 7.00pm9.00pm, see you there! Find us on social media. W: linktr.ee/WestLothianEagles E: westlothianeagles@gmail.com
TABLE TENNIS - LINLITHGOW - WednesdaysLongcroft Hall, Philip Ave, Linlithgow. Main Hall 8.00pm - 9.45pm. Annual Membership £12.00 [Under 18’s £6.00] Play Table Tennis in a friendly atmosphere. The Club has “Active Assured” status (West Lothian Council Accreditation scheme) and is affiliated to Table Tennis Scotland. For those of a more competitive nature there is the opportunity to represent our team in the Stirlingshire & Midland Counties League. Contact Allan Scott T: 07485 001819 E: linlithgowlttg@gmail.com W: linlithgowtabletennis.co.uk
WHITBURN AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB - A local association for retired and semi-retired men to meet for fellowship and friendship. Meetings are held at the Hilcroft Hotel each Wednesday morning at 9.30 and usually conclude around 12 noon. An extensive programme of speakers is planned throughout the year and periodic lunches, dinners and outings are planned. Interested? Contact Rod Dow (Probus Secretary) on 01506 462772 or come along any Wednesday morning for a coffee and a warm welcome.
WEST LOTHIAN u3a - Retired or semi-retired and looking for a new way to spend your free time? Why not try u3a? u3a is a UK wide movement for retired or semi retired people who wish to make new friends, continue learning in an informal setting, and keep active. Most groups meet at Uphall Community Centre. No formal qualifications are required and non given. For more information see; W: u3asites.org.uk/westlothian/home Facebook: www.facebook.com/West-Lothianu3a-106310894889317
E: memsecwlu3a@gmail.com T: 01506 844274
LINLITHGOW STRING ORCHESTRA - We are a friendly group who meet weekly on Monday’s 7.30-9.30pm (term-time) at Linlithgow Masonic Lodge. Any players with a minimum standard Grade 5 or equivalent (no audition) from Linlithgow and the surrounding areas are welcome. Please bring music stands. Contact us via email: linlithgowstringorchestra@gmail.com through our website: linlithgowstringorchestra.co.uk or search for us on Facebook.
CARERS OF WEST LOTHIAN - Support and social activities for Carers, Young Carers and Disabled Adults. All our carers groups are offered blended –both in person and face to face, as are our social groups: weekly Coffee Morning; monthly Mental Health Support Group, Evening Support Group & Bereaved Carer Support Group as well as groups for Young Carers and Young Adult Carers. Regular Social Groups for Adults with disabilities. Power of Attorney Clinic (face to face) & Benefits Advice (phone or face to face). For information: T: 01506 448000 E: office@carers-westlothian.com W: www.carers-westlothian.com
GENERATION ARTS - Creative activities for people aged 50 and over, either living at home or in care with complex needs. Online and offline activities in West Lothian such as a dance dvd, art demos, reminiscence, recipes, music and song playlists, dance and song classes. Creative activity and learning can unlock memories and skills that have been lost and creates a spark of joy for all. Contact generationarts.coordinator@gmail.com or phone 07521 358 239 for further information.
MACMILLAN CANCER INFORMATION & SUPPORT - A free, confidential service providing a ‘listening ear’, emotional and practical support, help to access benefits/financial advice and other local services. Expert information for anyone affected by cancer – yourself, a relative, friend or carer. Face to face appointments at Partnership Centres in Bathgate, Livingston North, Broxburn, Fauldhouse and Blackburn. Short health walks leaving Bathgate Partnership Centre - call to book a place. Phone and email support also available. Please call 01506 283053 or email MacmillanWestLothian@ westlothian.gov.uk
WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS NETWORK - Social activities for the over fifties. Run largely by volunteers we offer a wide range of interest groups to help you stay fit and healthy in both mind and body, whilst socialising with others. Something for everyone, but, more importantly, the chance to meet up and join in with old friends or make new friends along the way. Annual joining fee £24. Follow our Facebook page, visit www.westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510
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