Web kcn issue 25 jun jul 2017

Kings wells

Issue 25 June-July 2017 Free bi-monthly magazine

Community News a gazette magazine

gazette magazines has been introducing local people to local businesses since 2005!

aberdeen area tree services landscaping garden design, fencing: supply, install, repair decking + construction removed, cut, pruned or replace demolition & removal of sheds/garages | pest control - wasps, rabbits, pigeons + roe deer | all services available for commercial + domestic

call george williams for excellent service and rates in aberdeen area :

m-07803 697 580 | t-01224 312611 |184 broomhill road, aberdeen (est 1988)

mobile : 07813 964 875 email : kingswells@gazettemagazines.com web : www.gazettemagazines.com

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 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.

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Sunshine...

How good does it make you feel when you throw open the curtains and you see blue sky and a warm sun beating down? Use the Aussie mantra... Slip on a shirt, Slop on the 30+ sunscreen, Slap on a hat, Seek shade or shelter, Slide on some sunnies. Also remember don’t leave your dog(s) in the car as it heats up like an oven!

Did you know that I’ve been producing Kingswells Community News for you for four years! Where oh where has that time gone.

Thank you to each and everyone that has taken the time to pick it up off the doormat and read it and use the advertisers. For the regular contributors who help keep it “local” and a massive big thanks to the delivery team - you are all brilliant and I love our doorstep catch-ups. Without you all there would be no newsletter!

So what’s in this issue! On the opposite page we have the winners of the Art Competition held at Town and Country Vet’s. The Primary School has given us some fabulous photographs of the wonderful new wooden additions to the playground. Bucksburn Academy have some winners of their own and the new school terms are listed too - for future planning.

Community Council and Community Centre have their regular slot along with the Councillors. Gillian was asking how you are getting on with your “acts of kindness”? Care to share any experiences?

Go grab that cuppa and flick through this issue of KCN! Next few deadlines listed below if you have anything you wish to share.

Until the next time,

Sue x

KCN - A5 bi-monthly magazine Issue

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Deadline

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13 July 13 Oct 10 Dec 13 Feb 13 Apr 13 Jun 13 Aug

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Town & Country Veterinary Group

30th Anniversary Open Day, Kingswells Branch On Saturday 29th April we held an open day at the Kingswells branch and invited members of the public to come and view our practice and get advice about pet care. The event was supported by Hills Pet Nutrition, VBS Direct who supply us with own brand supplement products, Merial Boehringer who are our main supplier of vaccines, flea and wormer treatments, and our main wholesale supplier Henry Schein Animal Health. Thank you to all of them for their support.

German Shepherd Rescue Scotland.

Thank you to everyone who came along and supported us on the day.

We held a dog show which was organized by Laura Smeaton, one of our nursing assistants, and we had some fabulous winners!

There was an art competition and the under 8’s section was won by Daisy Sim, runner up was Zoe Bichan, and the 8-13 section was won by Owen Bichan, runner up was Lois Junor. The winners and runners up are shown here with their artwork.

Chloe Fraser, one of our receptionists, was on hand for face painting and was kept very busy!

* Professional, reliable trustworthy service, caring for pets in the comfort of their own home. * Disclosure Scotland checked and fully insured.

Chris Wiper and Liz Geraerts, who started the practice back in 1987, blew out the candles on the cake!

We raised over ÂŁ200 which was split between SSPCA, GAGAH, DAWGS, Cats Protection and www.gazettemagazines.com t : 07813 964 875

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BucksburnAcademy news May 2017 Bucksburn Academy football success We have had another successful season on the footballing front. Our S1 team has retained the Aberdeen City and Shire 7 a side title beating Westhill 2-0 in the final and two of the S1 squad were featured in the local press after Jake Buirds won the city wide Green Skills competition with Lewis Dalgarno finished third. Meanwhile our seniors made it to the final of the local cup competition narrowing losing out to Cults and our U-15 also featured in their final against Hazlehead. Our wing team won the inaugural Bucksburn v Dyce trophy as well as performing very well at the city and shire special schools tournament.

Stavanger Visit In February a group of 16 students and 6 staff took part in a 4 day study visit to a partner school, St Olav’s in Stavanger, Norway. During a packed programme they were able to find out more about how Science is delivered at the school, approaches to enabling people in Norway to live a more sustainable lifestyle and to

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continue to share Scottish and Norwegian culture and lifestyles. This visit followed a similar visit earlier in the session where we welcomed the group from St Olav’s to Bucksburn Academy.

French Word Wizard Finalist Congratulations to Scott Manson who made it through the North East heat of the national French Word Wizard competition where pupils compete to successfully spell French words in a timed competition. He then represented the school at the National

final at the Scottish Parliament where he put in an amazing performance.

Summer Holidays...

Saturday 1st of July 2017 until Wednesday 16th of August 2017

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MD

Aberdeen School Session 2017 - 18 In Service Days Monday 21 August 2017 Friday 17 November 2017 Tuesday 13 February 2018 Wednesday 14 February 2018 Tuesday 8 May 2018

Term 1

22 August 2017 - 13 October 2017 In-Service Day - Monday 21 August 2017 Term Starts - Tuesday 22 August 2017 September Holiday - Friday 22 September Monday 25 September 2017 Term Ends - Friday 13 October 2017 October Holiday - Monday 16 October Friday 27 October 2017

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Term 2

30 October 2017 - 22 December 2017 Term Starts - Monday 30 October 2017 Term Ends - Friday 22 December 2017 Christmas Holiday - Monday 25 December 2017 to Friday 5 January 2018

Term 3

8 January 2018 - 29 March 2018 Term Starts - Monday 8 January 2018 Mid Term Holiday - Monday 12 February 2018 Term Ends - Thursday 29 March 2018 Spring Holiday - Friday 30 March to Friday 13 April 2018

Term 4

16 April 2018 - 6 July 2018 Term Starts - Monday 16 April 2018 May Day Holiday - Monday 7 May 2018 Term Ends - Friday 6 July 2018 www.gazettemagazines.com t : 07813 964 875

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Kingswells Primary News New Playground Equipment for Kingswells School On Tuesday 18th April Kingswells pupils returned to school to find several new pieces of playground equipment.

Mrs Cran had contacted Eric Wilde who is part of the Environmental Team at Aberdeen City Council to ask for some tree stumps for our playground earlier in the year. Eric and his team carry out tree maintenance in and around Aberdeen and are able to recycle logs and trees for playground use. The very talented team exceeded all our hopes and created a boat, a rocket, a tractor and trailer, a large table and chairs set and an adventure trail for the playground, all completely free of charge. The children were delighted and are enjoying playing on these items during break times at school. In May the team arrived with 2 mud kitchen units which have now also been installed and the pupils are cooking up a storm using old pots and pans and any stones, twigs and leaves that they find.

We are very grateful to Eric and Scott, Paul and Jim from his team for everything they have done for us! We invite children from the community to come and enjoy the equipment after school and in the holidays too.

We have also recently installed a new ramp and set of steps on the bank in our playground. As well as being fun to play on this will make access to our two large slides much easier.

We would like to say a huge thank you to our PTA for raising the money for this. We really appreciate it and children are really enjoying using all of the new equipment.

[The proposed new term dates are listed on page 5 - could be subject to change but correct at time of print.]

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A little bit of Italy... ...in Little Belmont Street

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wee reminder from Adventure Aberdeen 5 minutes walk from His Majesty’s Theatre and Music Hall – special lunch and about pre-theatre menus. its Community Freshly baked home mode home made pizzas with lashings of toppings. room.

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The room is the old gym ... in Little Belmont Street hall of the school and We have been serving fine Italian cuisine since 1977. can accommodate up to Extensive à la carte menu for lunch and dinner.

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5 minutes walk from His Majesty’s Theatre and Music Hall been serving fine italian cu We have The room has a mixture - special lunch and1977. pre-theatre menus.

Extensive à la carte menu for lunch been serving fine italian cuisine since of formalWe andhave informal baked home-made pizzas with lashings of toppings.

Extensive à la carte menu forFreshly lunch and dinner. seating, a large screen and 5 minutes walk from His Majesty’s T Tender pasta dishes full of tasty ingredients and luscious cream – special lunch and pre-theatre men digital projector, sauces.

Seafood, 5 minutespublic walk from His Majesty’s Theatre andprime Musicsteaks, Hall chicken dishes, all with that extra wifi, a kitchenette with urn, touch of genius which is true Italian cooking!

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Freshly baked home mode home m microwave, dish washer, Open Monday to Saturday 12 noon to 2.30pm and 5.30pm to 10.15pm Tender pasta dishes full of tasty ingr steaks, chicken dishes, all with that e baked crockery,Freshly there are twohome mode home made pizzas with lashings of toppings.

01224 647777 Tender dishes full of tasty ingredients and luscious cream sauces. Seafood, prime toilets, one withpasta disability 7 Little Belmont Street | Aberdeen | AB10 1JG Open Monday to Saturday: 12 n steaks, chicken dishes, all with that extra touch of genius which is true Italian cooking! and baby changing 1977 - celebrating 40 years - 2017 facilities. The room has 7 Little Belmont Street | A Open Monday to Saturday: 12 noon to 2.30pm & 5.30pm to 10.15pm disability access. It can be booked at any time but is Littleavailable Belmont generally7 more in Street | Aberdeen | AB10 1JG the evenings.

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Readers are reminded that a full account of Community Council business and other local and Aberdeen news is available on our website at http://www.kwells.org

Latest News Gorse Fire

On the morning of Saturday 8 April a large gorse fire was started in the Bucks Burn valley close to Concraig. It spread rapidly northwards across Burnbrae Moss which is a Local Nature Conservation Site.

Six appliances and 34 firefighters attended the blaze which took 8 hours to put out. The fire is now known to have been started deliberately, probably down near the burn at Concraig. A smaller fire was started around the same time beside the path that runs behind the houses on Concraig Gardens.

(Burnbrae Moss after the fire and houses at Concraig)

(Bucks Burn valley after the fire) This was potentially a dangerous fire. Sparks and burning embers blown by the wind were showered over a wide area. At one point the Kingswells to Newhills road had to be closed.

If the wind had changed direction there is no doubt that the houses in Concraig would have been at risk.

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This was not just an isolated incident. Gorse fires have been started deliberately along the Bucks Burn valley for a number of years. The latest fire had a damaging effect on wildlife.

However, the outcomes could have been much more serious.

Police Scotland is still investigating the recent fire. If you think you know who was responsible, please dial 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111. If you see anyone starting a wildfire, dial 999 immediately and try to get a description of those involved.

THESE FIRES NEED TO BE STOPPED. PLEASE BE VIGILANT, ESPECIALLY DURING WARM, DRY WEATHER. Kingswells Bus Service Although it’s welcome, the new service involving the Number 94 can only be regarded as a stop-gap measure. It fails to provide a service for Kingswells in the evenings and at weekends. Aberdeen City Council had to come up with something quickly after Stagecoach pulled out of filling the gap left by First Group. The Council is now looking at various options for providing effective bus services across the city as a whole. Here in Kingswells, any future improvements are unlikely to suit everybody and they will probably not include an off-peak service that is frequent. A key requirement of any new service will be that buses should run on time.

Our Councillors David Cameron and Steve Delaney are working hard to try to improve the local bus service. KCC is seeking more direct involvement in the decision-making process to ensure that the views and ideas of local people are taken into account in planning the way forward.

This month, Aberdeen City Council will be discussing the provision of bus services generally. Hopefully, that will lead to a better situation in Kingswells.

Kingswells Medical Practice As you probably know, the doctors’ surgery is part of the Victoria Street Medical Group.

The Victoria Street surgery will close later this year when the current lease runs out and some patients will transfer from there to the Kingswells practice. KCC has already been in touch with the doctors’ representative to find out how this change will be managed and what effect it might have on the current arrangements in Kingswells. We are told that both GP and nurse sessions will be increased at the Kingswells practice in proportion to the size of the new patient list.

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New Street Lights You may have noticed that the street lights on the main routes through the village have been changed to LEDs. These are part of an initiative to reduce light pollution, improve lighting and save energy.

Our Vanishing Verges Have you noticed the year-on-year erosion of some of our grass verges in parts of Kingswells ? Grass bordering the road or pavement is gradually being replaced by bare ground which is then colonised by weeds. The problem is being caused by overenthusiastic or incorrect spraying of weedkiller by the Council. Every year, a little bit more of the grass is killed off. This year, it looks like the problem was made even worse by spraying the weedkiller on a windy day, leading to large yellow patches in some areas. Â KCC has raised this issue with the relevant department in Aberdeen City Council. Hopefully, those involved in the spraying will be more careful in future. Some of the bare areas might need to be re-seeded with grass.

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SensationALL Say ‘THANK YOU’ To Local Contractors We would like to say a huge ‘THANK YOU’ to a number of local companies who were involved in the major job of knocking throught to connect the two sides of the Old School and Old School House during the Easter holidays; James Jamieson Construction, Portico Design, Stuart Taylor Services, Mark Craigmile Plumbing and Joinery, Graham Chapman Electrical and Aberdeen Cleaning Services. The ‘knockthrough’ will enable facility users to move more easily through the building and make it a much more flexible and usable space.

Thank you also to DGC Joinery, i Protech, Drever Electrical and The Flooring Lodge for helping us out with a few other alterations recently which means we now have some much needed electrical sockets and fully accessible disabled toilet with height adjustable changing table and hoist.

SensationALL Welcomes New Staff and Trustees SensationALL welcome’s a new administrator to our staff. Nadine Alam has settled in well to the team and is now our first point of contact for enquiries and new users. We are also fortunate to welcome two new trustees to the board, Karen Farquhar is the former CEO of Befriend a Child and has a wealth of knowledge working in the charity sector. Valerie Burnett is an Occupational Therapy Lecturer and Head of Department at Robert Gordon University and her clinical knowledge will be a great benefit to the charity.

SensationALL Sensory Room Thanks to generous donations from two local oil companies we are pleased to be in the position to redesign and upgrade our sensory room.

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Plans are to install bespoke interactive and controlled equipment which will enhance the experience of the sensory room users of all ages and medical conditions. Updates on this project can be followed through social media and our website.

Fundraise For SensationALL at the Nicol of Skene Westhill 10K? SensationALL are once again excited to be the charity partner for the 2nd Nicol of Skene Westhill 10K. We are very grateful to have this opportunity to raise awareness of our charity and raising vital funds. We have a few charity places left to fill so if anyone is interested in rasing funds for their local disabilty charity while undertaking the challenge of a 10K run around a scenic route of westhill then please get in touch with: susankay@sensationall.org.uk.

Volunteering Opportunities For Retirees Are you retired and have an hour or more to spare making a difference in a fun and friendly environment? At SensationALL we appreciate the experience and dedication that retirees can bring to our setting. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, gain or share skills and get satisfaction from helping others.

Contact our Volunteer Cordinator Sarah Knowles: sarah@sensationall.org.uk SensationALL Membership Another opportunity to get involved in SensationALL is by becoming a member. Members of SensationALL can be individuals, organisations or businesses and are entitled to vote on what happens in the charity as well as plans for the future use of the OSH. If you are interested in becoming a member then please get in touch with us to find out more. Please contact us by email info@sensationall.org.uk or by phone (01224) 746699

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Could I just be thirsty?

Around 14 years ago I discovered that after drinking a glass of water, I would feel better than before. This could be tiredness, aches and pain, stiffness, catarrh, an increasing temperature or even morning sickness. I also noticed the same outcome with my young child but it wasn’t common practice to consider thirst as being the cause of these symptoms and there was no advice to drink more water. I couldn’t find information that backed up my own findings and I was definitely in the minority by not seeking out painkillers and cold remedy treatments for my symptoms, though they would disappear quickly without such intervention.

Then I discovered the research of Dr F Batmanghelidj, a physician educated in Edinburgh and qualifying in London, studying under Alexander Fleming. When back in Iran, he was held for two years as a political prisoner and was asked by his guards to heal the sick in the prison, but had only water. He found that regular water intake cured those with peptic ulcers and he continued his research around human dehydration after being released and for a further 20 years.

Dr Batmanghelidj suggests we: Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning and in the evening, and half an hour before meals. But increase daily intake slowly at first.

When thirsty, take water only and not caffeinated and fizzy drinks, juice etc.

Be conscious of the dehydrating properties of exercise, caffeine, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, sugar, MSG and stress.

Use pink or sea salt instead of table salt.

Consider dry lips, histamine reactions such as sneezing and wheezing, heartburn, constipation, low back pain, headaches and other general pains as some of our body’s cries for water.

Check out www.watercure.com for more info.

Instead of thinking “I’m coming down with the cold”, ask yourself why you might be choked up, aim to dilute the catarrh and treat with water to prevent your body’s thirst signals getting more severe.

Ask yourself, “Could I just be thirsty?”

NB This do not constitute medical advice and should not be seen as a replacement for consultation with a doctor or other healthcare professional.

Gillian Low is a local holistic health enthusiast, qualified Zumba instructor and Reiki practitioner and can be contacted on 07808 160728

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Zumba

Dance fitness for all Only £5 a class Kingswells Public Hall

11 am Sat : Kerry Davidson 07960 454889 7.50pm Wed : Gillian Low 07808 160728 3.15pm Wed : Zumba Gold - Kingswells Community Centre Drop us a text and come join the fun!

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Community Centre Program: Monday Kids Yoga (Upstairs) 9.30-10.00 Indoor Bowling 10.00-12.00 Coffee & Conversation 10.30-11.30 Private Hire 12.00-12.45 Alison Football: Pre-School 2.00-2.30 Gentle Exercise 2.30-3.30 Alison Football: P1-2 3.30-4.15 Girl Guiding Assoc 5.30-6.30 Girl Guiding Assoc 6.30-7.45 Badminton (71 club) 8.00-10.00

Tuesday Kingswells Parent & Toddlers 9.30-11.30 Buggy Fitness (Upstairs) 10.30-11.30 Private Hire 11.30-12.45

Kids Rock (Upstairs) 1.30-2.30 Private Hire 2.30-3.15 Alison Football: P1-2 3.30-4.15 Beavers 5.00-6.00 Tang So Doo -Hall 6.00-7.00 Badminton (Adults) 7.00-9.00

Wednesday **OPENS AT 12.45pm (due to Maintenance)** Private Hire 1.30-3.15 Zumba Gold 3.15-4.00 Dancentre: Ballet 4.30-5.10 Dancentre: Teens Hip Hop 5.20-6.10 Marie Law Pilates: Beginners 5.30-6.30 Marie Law Pilates: Improvers 6.30-7.30 Dancentre: Adults Dance Workout 6.30-7.30

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Community Centre Program: Thursday Kingswells Parent & Toddlers 9.30-11.30 Walking Group 10.30-11.30 Private Hire 11.45-12.45 Whist Club (Upstairs) 1.50-3.50 Bible Club (Upstairs) 6.15-7.15 Girl Guiding Assoc 6.00-7.00 Girl Guiding Assoc 7.00-9.00

Friday Alison Football: Pre-School 9.30-10.00 Community ART GROUP: 10.00-12noon Private Hire 10.45-12.45 Alison Football: Pre-School Plus 2.002.45 Library (every second week) 2.50-3.50

Ian Wilson Football P3-P4 4.00-5.00 Ian Wilson Football P1-P2 5.00-6.00 Girl Guiding Assoc 6.00-7.15 Cubs 7.30-9.00

Saturday Dancentre: Preschool Ballet 9.00-9.30 Dancentre: Preschool Ballet 9.30-10.00 Dancentre: P1 Ballet 10.00-10.40 Dancentre: Grade 1 Jazz 10.40-11.20 Dancentre: P2 Ballet 11.20-12.00 Dancentre: P3 Ballet 11.20-12.00

Sunday City Church Kingswells 11.00-12.30 Nerf Wars (2nd Sunday each Month) 2.30-4.30

Webster Park Program Monday Teenybeats 9.45-10.45 Just Dance: Hip Hop Boys 3.30-4.00 Just Dance: Jazz Lv1 4.00-5.45 Just Dance: Tap Adult Intermediate 7.30-8.45

Tuesday Baby Sensory 9.00-4.30 Marie Law Pilates - Intermediate 5.30-6.30 Highland Dance - Senior 8.00-9.00

Wednesday Just Dance: Mini Mover 3-4 yrs 9.30-10.15 Just Dance: Mini Mover 22mths-2yrs 10.20-11.00 Just Dance: Pre-school 3.30-4.25 Just Dance: Tap Beginners 4.40-5.30 Just Dance: Hip Hop Boys 5.40-6.30 Just Dance: Jazz Adults 7.30-9.00

Thursday Buggy Fitness - Claire Flett 10.00-11.00 16

Just Dance: Jazz & Tap Lv1 3.30-5.15 Just Dance: Jazz & Tap Lv3 5.15-7.00 Just Dance: Tap Adult Advanced 7.45-9.00

Friday Gillians' Pilates 9.30-10.30 Gillians' Pilates 10.30-11.30 Just Dance: Jazz Beginners 3.30-4.15 Just Dance: Jazz & Tap Lv2 4.15-6.00 Just Dance: Tap & Jazz Lv5 6.00-8.00

Saturday Highland Dance - Junior Intermediate 10.15-11.15 Highland Dance - Junior Beginners 10.30-11.15 Outdoor Football - School (CHANGING ROOMS) 9.30-11.30 Outdoor Football - Continental/Postal (CHANGING ROOMS) 1.00-4.00

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17

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18

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Don’t neglect reviewing your mortgage deal

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your fixed rate mortgage deal, then you will be in an even stronger position than before. As your mortgage balance reduces, you will have more equity in your property and this means less risk to the lender. The lower the risk to the lender, the better the interest rates available.

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19

News from Councillor Cameron...

May 2017 The local elections are now behind us and the electorate of the Kingswells/Sheddocksley/ Summerhill have given me the honour of being one of their elected members for the next 5 years after I was re-elected on 4th May 2017.

Kingswells has many issues which need to be resolved and at present the most pressing are the public bus service and the broadband speed (or lack of it) being experienced in some areas of the village. The Broadband speeds are a historical issue I have been attempting to resolve, probably for the whole of my last term as a Councillor. The excuse that Kingswells will just need to be patient as they are served by a TPON System and the costs involved for BT to change this are, and never have been, justifiable.

Aberdeen is boasting of being a “connected” city and that cannot happen whilst an area with a population approaching 5000 is being ignored where hi-speed Broadband connections are not widely available. This impinges on businesses which people run from home as well as the ability of individuals to access the internet and communicate with friends and family worldwide

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because the broadband speed is so slow. Having discussed this within Aberdeen City Council and our best solution would be to have this covered off within the City Region Deal which Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire have with the UK and Scottish Governments. On that basis I am currently working on discussions to make this happen to once and for all, do what is required for the residents of Kingswells in respect of hispeed broadband.

Kingswells has been very badly let down

by FirstBus who, for allegedly commercial considerations, withdrew their bus services from Kingswells at the beginning of April.

When FirstBus initially indicated their intentions to potentially remove the bus services from Kingswells in August 2016 I made a conscious decision not to approach them, nor to criticise them, as such actions were not going to benefit the residents of Kingswells. Others did both these things to no avail and with considerably animosity being generated. Instead, I decided to approach Stagecoach and had a meeting with them the day the initial letter from FirstBus was circulated in late August. At that point I was fully aware that they could make no plans for a route which was being operated by FirstBus until such time as FirstBus relinquished that route.

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However, at that point and subsequently over the months of uncertainty that followed, Stagecoach certainly inferred that they would be interested in filling the gap, should it arise.

This was the situation until 21st February 2017 when I received an email from Stagecoach at 2315 that evening, indicating that they were withdrawing from discussions on providing a public bus service through Kingswells village.

22nd February 2017 was Council Budget Day, no party (the Council Administration, Liberal Democrats and SNP) had a budget line for provision of a bus service to Kingswells Village.

Until 12 hours before the meeting I was still under the impression that Stagecoach was going to provide such a service. At this point Kingswells village faced the prospect of no public bus service through the village from 1st April 2017, a completely unacceptable situation.

I subsequently engaged with Council Officers, who did a sterling job, on the immediate options for a public bus service in Kingswells Village and I had an amendment to the proposal accepted at the committee meeting which resulted in the current situation with the 94 Service. I have continued to liaise with Council Officers to ensure that the report to Full Council in June 2017 has a costed solution to the problem. At best, the current situation is a sticking plaster, and a relatively poor one which could more correctly be described as better than nothing. I will continue to fight the Kingswells corner on this issue and hopefully have an acceptable solution presented to Council in June 2017, accepted by Council and implemented without delay.

David J Cameron SNP Councillor for Kingswells, Sheddocksley and Summerhill Ward T: 01224 346612 M: 07876760760 E: dacameron@aberdeencity.gov.uk

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21

News from Councillor Delaney...

I would like to start off by thanking residents for their support at the local council elections. My campaign was fought entirely on local issues and clearly these matters were as important to you as they are to me. It is indeed a privilege to have been elected to represent our area for a further term. My thanks also extend to everyone who helped out during the campaign.

The big issues of public transport and broadband persist. As regards broadband I am expecting things will become clearer within the coming weeks. New street cabinets have gone up in Derbeth and Concraig and at least some of the necessary infrastructure appears to have gone in. In addition, I was told a few weeks ago by BT’s Regional Director that “There has been significant positive progress on both the TPON and EO situation within Kingswells from within the Digital Scotland programme”.

An announcement was expected by the end of April, but clearly this has stalled. I have of course chased this up and will hopefully be in a position to update you very soon.

Concerns continue to be highlighted regarding the operation of the No 94 shuttle bus. The priority remains to have a service put in place which starts earlier in the morning, runs into the city centre and operates during the evenings and at weekends. For the most part the No 94 appears to be much more reliable in its timekeeping than the X40 of late but it can

only ever be regarded as a stop gap due to the limitations of this service.

An opportunity came up on 24th May to raise this matter again in light of an increased budgetary position which arose from monies collected from bus lane fines. There were a number of ranked bids in respect of future spending from this fund and supported bus services for Kingswells was ranked 16th which pretty much meant it would never see the light of day. I proposed moving it up to third position which would have placed it in a good position for funding as it became available. There was no support on the committee for this proposal.

However, unlike the usual Council “rammy”, there was a clear recognition across the chamber of the difficulties being faced by Kingswells residents and the need to come up with a solution. Whether or not these sympathetic and conciliatory words will actually translate into actions remains to be seen, but it’s only fair to acknowledge an apparent willingness to put in place a workable solution and this must be welcomed.

A report is going to the full Council on 21st June which has come about as a result of previous cross party consensus to investigate the possibility of bringing back Council run bus services in Aberdeen. Although city wide in its focus, this report will also look at current gaps in

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bus service provision, including the situation in Kingswells.

I will of course be working with Council officials and seeking to identify political consensus in the run up to 21st June in order to identify a sustainable way forward which delivers a workable bus service for Kingswells and for such a service to be implemented at the earliest possible opportunity.

Now for some good news! The play area at Clova Park is soon to be completely removed so it can be replaced with a much larger facility which will be located onto the adjacent open space. This represents a major improvement and will result in a play park which is likely to be of interest to all Kingswells residents who have young children or grandchildren.

Unfortunately the need to remove the old equipment prior to any works commencing is going to result in the current play area being out of action for some time, but this is unavoidable

under the circumstances. An element of disruption is inevitable during construction of the new facility and I would ask for your forbearance during this time.

The consultation event gives you an opportunity to view the various options on offer for the site.

It takes place from 12.00 – 16.00 at Kingswells Community Centre on Tuesday 13th June. If this play area is likely to be of interest to you or your family, please come along and ensure your voice is heard.

As always, please get in touch to raise any concerns you may have.

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

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23

Tastes so good...

SYRUP AND FRUIT COOKIES

Šimage Nigel Maisey

No one can resist the taste and smell of a freshly baked cookie, straight from the oven. These yummy delights have the sweetness of sultanas mixed in and are best enjoyed with a glass of cold milk from the fridge.

Ingredients: 340g self raising flour 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda 200g soft margarine 200g Demerara sugar 200g golden syrup sultanas 50g sultanans 50g chopped nuts 50g chopped cherries

Equipment: Flat tray, covered with baking parchment Preheat the oven to 190°c or gas mark 4-5 Method: Place margarine, syrup and sugar in a bowl and mix together.

Pour in the rest of the ingredients and mix thoroughly to form a dough.

Place the dough in the fridge for an hour, for best results place in fridge overnight.

When cold divide into 20 balls and press them lightly onto the baking tray.

Place in the oven for 10 to 15mins until golden.

Leave to cool on a wire rack.

24

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25

Kingswells SWI April President Kathleen Hendry introduced members from Cullerlie / Garlogie WI who conducted the business meeting and the new committee for 2017/18 session was elected.

The ladies entertained with poetry, quizzes and recipes.

Competition winners Easter bonnet 1st P Stuart 2nd M Bruce 3rd eq C Shand & K Hendry Spring Arrangement in a basket 1st M Bruce 2nd M Anderson 3rd K Hendry.

May

President Margaret Farquhar welcomed members and guests to an open night and introduced Gordon Todd and Barry Robertson from McGowans the Jewellers. The presentation was entitled McGowans Jewellery through the ages. They explained about hallmarks, diamonds, precious stones and brought along some pieces of Jewellery old and new. Gordon and Barry then answered questions from the floor and looked at some pieces of Jewellery that members had brought along. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the evening. Tea and homebakes were served.

Meetings are held in the Kingswells Church Hall on the second Tuesday of the month.

New Members welcome.

Indoor Carpet Bowling Come along and give carpet bowls a try... indoor carpet bowling held at the Community Centre. The group is needing to swell it’s numbers so they can have a decent game every week. No experience required just come and give it a go. They do have spare bowls and nothing in the way of special clothing or equipment is required. In the first instance to gain more info and words of encouragement contact : Ian Sim Tel: 01224 741178 / Mob: 07535221718

Margaret Bruce 01224740646

Whist at Kingswells

Do you enjoy a game of cards? Then come along to the Kingswells Community Centre on Thursday afternoons from 2 to 4 pm for a friendly game of Whist.

Any queries to Helen: 01224 744429

Aberdeen City Libraries @ Kingswells Community Centre Aberdeen City Libraries deliver a fortnightly service to the Kingswells community on Fridays from 2.50 pm to 3.50 pm in the hall at Kingswells Community Centre on Kingswells Avenue.

A selection of books and DVDs, suitable for all ages, are available for loan and library staff are on hand to answer enquiries and assist with reading choices. Reservations may be placed for stock that is not on display. Theme events will take place at libraries throughout the holidays; further details are available at www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/Library For further info : Home Service Library tel. 01224 498930 26

Woodburn Walkers Enjoy the countryside, meet new friends, keep fit - join the Woodburn Walkers.

Age 50+ Transport - Hire Bus, Fortnightly - Tuesday’s Starting point Hazlehead Park Time 9am for 9.15 Average Distance 7 miles contact numbers are 01224 323925 and 01224 318075.

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Household tips

Orlando Villa Haven T: 01224 747855 Luxury 4 bedroom villa with pool and spa 15 mins from Disney World Take a virtual tour at: orlandovillahaven.com

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Rotary International Would you like to be part of an organisation which supports the needs of communities locally, nationally and internationally?

If so, becoming a member of Westhill & District Rotary Club could be the thing for you.

We are involved with organising Young Musician and Young Speaker competitions, Youth Leadership camps, Senior Citizens Christmas dinner as well as other activities. We are also involved in various local galas and assist at some Highland Games. Wherever there is a disaster (eg earthquakes overseas, flooding at home) the Rotary family supplies aid.

Membership of our Club is open to any person regardless of age, sex or creed. The only requirement is a desire to be of service in the community. Whilst most of our members come from Westhill a number come from the wider District. Look at our Website and Facebook pages to find out more.

If what we do is of interest then get in touch, you would be made most welcome. Service, Fellowship and Fun are the bywords.

We meet every week, 6.15pm on a Thursday, at the Broadstraik Inn in Westhill.

Contact person is Colin Currie – currie811@ btinternet.com, 01224 741546, 07712 531649 www.gazettemagazines.com t : 07813 964 875

Call Neil 07539-462-064 Laptop & PC upgrades/ repairs/internet Collect & return service New computers available Laptop and PC training available £20 per hour YOGA m-07527 801575 or e-mail brittastahlmann@googlemail.com

Mondays at Kingswells Church Hall, 19:30-21:00 Suitable for all abilities. Please contact Britta for further information, see contact details above.

George Cormack Painter & Decorator T: 01224 827081 M: 07840 650 853

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27

WEEK 5: MOVEMENT & DANCE

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YOU DECIDE & LEAD THE LEADERS!

WEEK 7: GAMES WEEK

A FUN END TO THE HOLIDAYS LOTS OF GAMES

BRING A CHANGE OF CLOTHES IT WILL GET MESSY

WEEK 4: KIPPIE OLYMPICS

TRY OUT SOME NEW SPORTS

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