Gala Life March 2023

Gala Life

19,36 Sudoku

16 Recipe

4 10 14 16 19

Your Community

All the news from our MPs, Councillors, Clubs, Groups and Churches.

Willie's Wonky Computer

Willie looks at some handy tweeks to Windows 11.

Fitness With Alan Clinch

This month Alan compares the benefits of walking with playing golf.

Recipe

Easy pork with mushrooms in a creamy sauce flavoured with smoked paprika.

Sudoku

Our Sudoku is also online this month, play every day and keep your brain active!

Advertising

Debbie - 07545299491

Photography & Design

Lynsey - 07305577953

Editor

Willie - 07906375953

www.facebook.com/mygalalife

Gala Life 57 Glen Crescent, Peebles EH45 9BS

info@galalife.co.uk

www.galalife.co.uk

42 History of Chocolate

14 Fitness

It's Painting Time

We take a look at all the paint finishes available, and where best to use them.

Gala Rugby Club

All the latest news, gossip and results from the boys in maroon.

The History of Chocolate

We look at the long history of Chocolate, and find it is actually good for you!

The Gala Garden

Sheila looks at growing and maintaining a good lawn.

WELCOME

Painting Time

Welcome to the March edition of Gala Life. I just love March, it’s so full of promise and optimism. The clocks changing are just the start to a great spring!

For you this month we have walks, trips, an art fair and a great Gala Opera Society concert as well as all our live music venues. Spring really is here.

The recipe is a quick and easy paprika pork dish. In our fitness column Alan looks at whether golf or walking is best and Willie in the computer pages gives you some great tips about Windows 11. In the garden Sheila gives some advice on the lawn (nearly mowing time again), and if you can’t get out because of the weather then we have a really tough sudoko! Give it a go - you may be surprised! The Rugby continues at a pace in Netherdale.

It’s time to pop out and say hello to all your favourite hospitality venues again and enjoy a wee treat. The live music continues and it's great to enjoy an evening out.

Stay safe and see you in April.

The Gala Garden

Our Gala Life Community

Please check with individual groups for the latest information.

Bereavement Support Group (BSG) - Meet every Monday 10am – 12 noon at Quins Restaurant. Get mutual support from people in the same situation. Friendly, understanding and very confidential group.

Borders Recovery Group - Meet Fridays at the Focus Centre. Peer support group 3-5pm, Recovery Cafe 5-7pm. For more info contact community@bordersinrecovery.org or 07536455898. www.bordersinrecovery.org

Memory Lane Music - We meet on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at MacArts in Galashiels from 2pm to 3.30pm. It is a singing group for people living with dementia and their family and friends. It uses the joy of singing together as a way of improving wellbeing and supporting people to build lasting friendships.

Café Connect - We meet in the restaurant at Borders College, on the ground floor of the Galashiels campus, from 10.30am until 12.00noon. Our dates are 15th March, 19th April and 17th May. There is a small cost for tea/coffee and scones (£1.00 each). A dementia advisor is available for information. This café is for anyone affected by dementia and provides a blether and friendship. Al-Anon Family Groups - Every Wednesday at 7.30pm, Chaplaincy Centre at the Border General Hospital. Access is through the main entrance to the hospital and follow the pink zone on the ground floor till you see the sign for the Chaplaincy Centre. Many people are affected by the excessive drinking of someone close to them. Find understanding, help and support in Al-Anon Family Groups. For further information call 07709948205 or visit www.al-anonuk.org.uk for meetings in Selkirk and Hawick.

Scottish Borders Versus Arthritis Support Group - meets online first Saturday of each month from 11am until 12.30pm. With a variety of interesting speakers and coffee and catch-up sessions, anyone who is living with arthritis or has an interest is very welcome. For more information, please, email info@scottishbordersversusarthritis.org

Parkinson's Support Group - held on the last Monday of every month at the Chaplincy Centre at the B.G.H. from 2pm to 4pm. The aim of the group is to offer support and company to anybody including families and carers who are affected by Parkinsons. We take part in outings quizzes and other activities suggested by the participants, and a cuppa and biscuits provided. If you require any more information or just want a chat please call Fran on 07790 750 115.

‘Heart for Art’ - Trinity Church Hall, High St, Galashiels every Wednesday afternoon, 1.30pm to 3.30pm. This is a Church of Scotland project which seeks to bring creativity and connection to those living with dementia in Scotland. Come along to our free art classes (with a carer if you wish) where staff of experienced professional artists and volunteers have enhanced dementia training. For more information look on facebook @CrossReachHeartForArt or email: heartfor.art@crossreach.org.uk

Gala Waterways Group - The Group usually meets at 10.00am until noon on the first Saturday of each month and typically prunes trees, clears undergrowth and removes rubbish along the Gala Water and Mill Lade in Galashiels. For more information contact galawaterways@gmail.com or 07763 850087. www.facebook.com/galawg/

Gala Policies Group - Always looking for new volunteers to join us in our litter picking efforts in the Policies. Monthly litter pick is held on last Saturday of each month (Feb to Nov) - meeting 10am at the small car park by the swimming pool. Bags and pickers provided - own gloves are recommended. We're on Facebook so join us, please, as we're determined to make sure this lovely woodland is preserved as a great 'green' town asset.

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Lindean Carpet Bowling Club - We open for the new season at Lindean Village Hall Wednesdays at 7.30pm. Great fun for all ages, we welcome back members old and new. Don’t worry if you haven’t played the game before, tuition available for beginners. Why not give it a try! For more details phone 01896755316

Gala Squash and Racketball Club - Monday night 7pm - late: Club Night at Gala Squash Club, turn up and have a hit. £2 for members and £4 for Non-Members. Every Thursday 7pm-8.30pm is Ladies Night at Gala Squash Club - Turn up and have a hit about and a laugh, all ladies welcome.

Gala Windbags - We are a charitable group affiliated to chest heart and stroke Scotland with meetings every Thursday 1.30 to 3.30pm in Lucy Sanderson Hall Galashiels. Contact details are Hazel Crombie phone 01896 753788.

Gentle Exercise Class for Older Adults - Langlee Community Centre - £3 per class. 10.30-11.15am every Wednesday - contact 07713357450 to book.

Langlee Badminton Club - Thursdays, 5.15pm-7pm in the main hall at Langlee Community Centre, Marigold Drive, Galashiels, £2 per session. Under-16s must be accompanied by parent/ guardian. We're a friendly group who get together once a week to play badminton, all year round. Beginners welcome, racquets and shuttles provided. Call Kevin Janiak on 07825 269667 for more information.

Eildon Ramblers - If you enjoy walking you’ll enjoy walking with the Eildon Ramblers. We meet weekly on either a Saturday or a Sunday at 10.00am at various locations in the Borders. To see details of upcoming walks visit www.eildonramblers.org.uk or for general information please email eildon.ramblers@gmail.com or phone 07877 159126. Our motto is friendship, fitness, fun and fresh air.

Red Gauntlet Archers - we have restarted the indoor shooting sessions at at Langlee Community Centre on Thursday nights 7.30 - 9.30 pm. Another beginners course will start in January. Red Gauntlet is one of the oldest field archery clubs in Scotland. We currently shoot outdoors in Elibank forest and indoors at Langlee Community Centre. Our current members attend competitions all over Scotland. Field archery can be enjoyed at all levels from a pleasant day out to top level competition. Anyone interested can come along and see what is involved or phone Jim at 01750 20660.

Reiver Petanque - meets at the playing area near The Waterwheel Tea Room, Philiphaugh, Selkirk, TD7 5LU for regular Club days on Wednesday and Sunday afternoons 1pm-4pm. (2pm start in summer months). At other times the area is open to anyone to play with their own equipment unless notices on Facebook or on the noticeboard at the piste state otherwise. There will be occasional league and other matches between other clubs throughout the year. Please contact Peter on 07895 275669 or Ron on 07986 644661 for more information and come along, learn about the sport from established players and have fun. The area is accessible for wheelchair users and the sport is suitable for all ages.

One Acchord Ladies A Cappella Chorus - Ladies, if you want to sing, please come and meet us at Bowden Village Hall, Main Street, Bowden, TD6 0SS. Learn to sing in 4 Part Harmony, no auditions needed. We welcome everyone who wants to join us. Rehearsal times: 3 Wednesdays 7:30-9:30pm and 1 Saturday 2-5pm a month. Phone 07710699619 or visit our website www. oneacchord.co.uk

The Eildon Singers - We are a mixed voice choir of some 40 members from all over the central Borders. We sing mainly classical works, with some lighter pieces. Our rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings from 7.15 to 9.00 pm in the Corn Exchange, Market Square, Melrose. We are working on music for a concert in May. New singers are always welcome (no auditions). If you

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would like more information, please contact our secretary, Margery Inglis, on 01750 21085.

Syrinx Flutes - meet one Monday evening (7pm to 9pm) a month from August to May in the Corn Exchange at Melrose with leader Lis Dooner (07774 813693) lisdooner@btinternet.com Or try elizabethraitt@icloud.com in the first instance. All abilities from approx Grade 3. Why not dust off your underused flute and join our friendly group? It’s such fun playing with others.

Gala Water Singers - we have resumed after the Christmas Break and meet on Tuesdays in Station House, Stow at 7pm, everyone welcome.

Galashiels Clef Club - Our next meeting is Saturday 18 March at 7.30pm in Lucy Sanderson Hall in Tweed Terrace. We offer a friendly welcome to everyone who can play an instrument or sing and they are free to choose any piece of music to entertain their fellow members. The range of music is wide and includes all styles of classical music, along with folksongs and songs from the shows, excursions into jazz, and members' own compositions. Please contact our president, Dorothea dmghall@hotmail or secretary John jda.wood@virgin.net for more information. Our website is https://clefclub.co.uk for more information.

Pipe Band - The Galashiels Ex-Service Pipe Band, Wednesday nights, 7pm at The Royal British Legion Club, Park Street, Galashiels. Experienced players and beginners most welcome to join. Please contact the secretary, Scott Mitchell on galafirefox@gmail.com

The Galashiels Town Band - Mondays - Gala Beginners Band 5.00 - 5.45pm, Tuesdays - Gala Youth Band 6.00 - 7.00pm, Gala Senior Town Band 7.00 - 8.45pm. These take place at the Galashiels

Town Band Hall, 6a Roxburgh Street, Galashiels. Open to experienced, inexperienced and beginners of all ages. Instruments can be supplied, so go give it a try. For more information please contact info@galatownband.org.uk or by calling Nichola Broatch on 07856266230.

Rolling Hills Folk - Friday March 17th. - George Machray. George is a well-kent face and voice on the Scottish folk scene, hailing from Port Seton in East Lothian where he honed his songwriting skills. He writes about the places and people from his favourite areas along the Firth of Forth coastline. Sometimes hilarious, sometimes romantic and full of pathos, George is a great performer and knows just how to entertain an audience. An evening not to be missed featuring only George as the star performer. No floor singers or musicians tonight. Venue: Smith Memorial Hall, Abbotsford Road, Darnick, TD6 9AH. Phone 07986 644661 for more information. Find us on Facebook and at our website www.rollinghillsfolkclub.org.uk Doors open at 7.30 for 8pm start. Tickets £10. BYOB.

Galashiels Studio Club - The Club is for artists and people who enjoy art. We meet weekly over the winter in Old Gala House, on Thursdays at 7.30pm for about 2 hours and have a varied programme of talks or demonstrations by professional artists and workshops some led by club members. For more information see our Facebook site or phone 07958 241798. The Club is open to all levels of artists and new members and visitors are welcome.

Dance Class - Circle Dancing is suitable for almost everyone, dancing in simple step patterns to wonderful music from around the world. No previous experience necessary as each dance is taught by dance leader. New dancers are very welcome to join our small friendly group. We dance every Tuesday 2 -4 pm at Anderson Chambers, Market Street, Galashiels TD1 3AF. £5 per class. A lovely way to stay active and meet new friends. For further information Contact Kate 07523 466657.

Scottish Country Dancing - Old & St Paul's Church Hall Tuesdays 7-9pm. All welcome. Contacts 01896822354 or 01578730591.

Gala Chess Club - meeting every Tuesday evening at the Focus Centre, Galashiels between 7.00pm and 9.00pm. All levels welcome. Facebook - gala chess club.

Willie’s Wonky Computer Factory

Windows 11 has been with us well over a year now and I don’t hear many complaints. I think once you adjust to the way it looks, it’s easy to get on with and performs very well. There are a couple of things though that are set by default and need a little tinkering to get the best out of it.

A lot of people don’t like Microsoft Edge as their browser. Well you are not stuck with it as sometimes when you open a new browser it will offer to change itself to default for you. If not, or if you missed that step without realising it, just go to Settings > Apps > Default Apps and look for the browser you'd like to use. Then just click 'Set default' in the top-right corner, and Windows will automatically use that browser in the future. There will also be several browser related file types listed there under Set default file types or link types. Some will have changed to your new default browser, but not all, click on the ones that still say Edge and change them now.

Win 11 does have an irritating habit of updating when it feels like it and sometimes forces a restart. To take more control, go to Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options. From here, you can set your active hours (so your device won't restart while you're doing things) or ask Windows to give you a 15-minute warning before automatically restarting to apply updates. Do not switch updates off, your security depends on it.

Win 11 defaults to a low refresh rate (probably to save power), so if you are running a fancy new monitor you will want the best out of it. Go to Settings > System > Display > Advanced display and look for your display. There will be a dropdown menu labeled Choose a refresh rate and pick the highest option your monitor can support. If high end gaming, you might have to knock it back a setting, otherwise you're going to want that refresh rate as high as possible. Likewise with sound. Go to System > Sound > Properties and choose the sound device you're using. Then under Output settings, make sure the Format option dropdown uses the highest

available setting. This will ensure you're getting the maximum audio quality.

If your new computer feels a little sluggish from the word go, the likely culprit is having too many apps running from startup. To save on resources and make things a bit quicker, go to Settings > Apps > Startup and turn off everything you don't need immediately after turning on your computer. (I recommend turning off OneDrive, as that consistently slowed down my PC.) You can always open these apps when you're ready to use them. If there is an app you regularly use after booting up, you can always enable it in there to save you the step of opening it manually.

You will either love or hate Dark Mode. You do however need to try it first to find out and it isn’t in the most obvious place (right click desktop and you would expect to find it under Display Options), instead, Microsoft have it hidden under Settings > Personalisation > Colours. There, you can choose light mode, dark mode, or use different settings for Windows vs. apps. You can also set transparency effects and accent colours in this menu.

If you regularly take screenshots, you will be familiar with the Snipping Tool, it has been around since early Vista days. Win 11 has relegated it to impossible to find without using the search bar, however its replacement, the Snip & Sketch Tool is easier to access, share and annotate screenshots than the old Snipping Tool. It can also now capture a screenshot of a window on your desktop.

The easiest way to call up Snip & Sketch is with the keyboard shortcut (!) Windows key + Shift + S, but you will also find it listed in the alphabetical list of apps accessed from the Start button, as well as in the notification panel where it's listed as Screen Snip. If you're a frequent screenshot taker, I recommend pinning the app to the taskbar :o)

Willie

Ormiston Bridge Club - The club meets each Monday at 6.30pm in Gala Rugby Club from September to April. New members are very welcome. If your bridge is a bit rusty or you are unfamiliar with club play, we can provide some refresher sessions. For more information email ormistonbridgeclub52@gmail.com or visit the Ormiston club website. Hope to see you.

Melrose Historical and Archaeological Association - Our next meeting will be on Tuesday 14th March 2023, at 7:30 p.m in Marmions @ the Wynd, off Buccleuch Street, Melrose - when our guest speaker, Bruce Keith, will present an illustrated lecture - 'Are we nearly there yet? Milestones, Measurements, Maps & Journeys from the Past'. All welcome. Free to Members, £4 to visitors.

Galashiels & District Probus Club - We provide regular meetings for retired and semi-retired professional and business men and women to enjoy the company of like-minded people who appreciate the camaraderie of being part of the Club. We meet fortnightly from September to May on Thursday mornings at the Waverley Castle Hotel, Melrose and after tea or coffee we enjoy a wide variety of interesting talks by guest speakers. We are always open to welcome new members and if you are interested in joining please ask any member or phone 01896 822892 for more information.

Galashiels Inner Wheel Club - Our meetings open to all ladies are usually held on the third Tuesday of the month in Cafe Recharge Island Street at 7 - 9.15pm approx. The Next meeting is on Tuesday 21st March and is our business meeting. Also in March we are having a Beetle Drive on Saturday 18th March in the Focus Centre at 7pm. Entry at the door of £5 per adult and £2 per child. Buffet and drinks available and all proceeds go to charity. Further info on the club or a buddy to take you along to your first meeting please call Sheila on 07708732320.

Galashiels Camera Club - we meet almost every Wednesday at The red Room, Langlee Community centre, Galashiels. If you are interested in photography visit our website www.galacameraclub. co.uk Professionals, Enthusiast and beginners are all welcome.

Borders Family History Society - Sunday 26th March at 2.30pm. Monthly meeting: Our Guest speaker for March is Elizabeth Wilson whose talk will give an incite into “A Berwick Boyhood between the wars.” Venue: St. Peter's Church Hall, Parsonage Road, Galashiels, TD1 3HS. For mre information, email info@bordersfhs.org.uk or research@bordersfhs.org.uk Alternatively leave a message on 01896 750387 and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

The Three Brethren u3a, Galashiels - The March meeting of the Three Brethren u3a will be on the third Monday of the month, 20th March, 2pm at the Galashiels Rugby Club, Netherdale. There will be an intriguing talk from Nancy Marshall entitled 'Stop talking at the Back'! We shall have to wait and see what it's all about. So do come along if you are a member or thinking about joining. u3a welcomes all those retired or semi-retired from work or family responsibilities. Details at www.u3asites.org.uk/three-brethren or phone 01896 823493

Borders Philatelic Society - we welcome new members who have an interest in Postal History, Stamps or Postcards at any level from all across the Borders. We are a small friendly club meeting fortnightly on Monday nights, 7.30 until 9pm in the Church Hall, Old Parish & St. Pauls in Scott Crescent Galashiels TD1 3JU. Please contact John Brown on 01721 723759 or Email him at tweedavenue@gmail.com for further information, or just turn up to meet like minded souls! The 2023 dates are:- March 6 & 20, April 3.

The Great Tapestry of Scotland Afternoon Tea - Available on the last Sunday of the month. Treat yourself or someone you care for with The Great Tapestry of Scotland’s Afternoon Tea in Stitchers Café. Enjoy a range of specialty teas, a selection of sandwiches, savoury bites and sweet treats with a Tapestry mocktail. Booking required, please see www.greattapestryofscotland.com or call 01896 809353.

FITNESS

with Alan Clinch

What’s Best – Golf or Walking? (Spoiler Alert… Both!)

Not even a remotely controversial opener eh? You might have seen an article in the press recently, suggesting that golf may be a ‘better’ exercise for people over the age of 65 than either walking or Nordic Walking (walking with poles). This was derived from a recent (rather limited) study carried out in Finland – researchers studied what are referred to as ‘cardiometabolic markers’ (blood pressure, blood glucose, triglycerides (fats) and HDL cholesterol) to assess any benefits accrued in older people from these activities.

Aerobic exercise benefits have been extensively researched in young people, but the same benefits in older adults have not been so widely reviewed. Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) is a leading cause of death among the elderly, with the key influences being sedentary behaviour (not moving enough) and a general lack of physical activity. Aerobic exercise has been shown to improve cardiovascular health, but most related studies have involved younger people in exercise lasting 30–60 min at moderate to high intensity – that doesn’t help much if we’re looking at older adults. Additionally, the resulting health benefits seems to vary depending on exercise type, intensity and duration.

This study tried to concentrate on what it loosely described as ‘age appropriate activities’. Golf, nordic walking and walking are generally safe and accessible, but the research only looked at 25 healthy people over one session of each exercise type. Playing golf resulted in an improvement in blood glucose, fats, and HDL cholesterol compared with Nordic walking and walking. In addition, all groups had significant decreases in systolic (when the heart beats) blood pressure, and Nordic walking and walking also demonstrated a decrease in diastolic (while the heart rests between beats) blood pressure.

It should be emphasised that it’s important when playing golf that clubs should be carried and buggies avoided!

What did the study actually show? In terms of heartrate and pace there were predictable differences between the activities (the intensity of golf was approximately 61%, while for Nordic walking and walking it was 76%–77% of the maximum HR). Nordic walking is a more effective moderate-intensity exercise, whereas golf is considered low-to-moderate intensity because it involves stops, but appears to be a more effective exercise based on energy expenditure, steps and distance. Nordic walking requires active use of upper body muscles, which should lead to a higher heartrate and greater energy consumption compared with walking.

The conclusion was that all three types of aerobic activity improved the cardiovascular status of older adults despite differences in duration and intensity. Overall, the lower exercise intensity, longer duration and higher total energy expenditure of golf compared with nordic walking and walking resulted in a slightly greater positive effect on fat profile and blood glucose. For these reasons, all aerobic activity is recommended to healthy older adults as a form of health-enhancing physical activity to prevent CHD, and can also be used as a strategy to improve heart health among those who already have some heart disease.

More on Nordic Walking next month.

As always, if you haven’t exercised for a while, or have any medical conditions which might cause problems, check with your Doctor to ensure it’s safe to increase your activity levels. Remember, pain is a sign that something is wrong…

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil

2 onions, finely sliced

400g pork fillet, trimmed of any fat, cut into thick strips

250g pack mushrooms, sliced

1 ½ tbsp smoked paprika

1 tbsp tomato purée

200ml chicken stock

100ml soured cream

tagliatelle, egg noodles, or rice, to serve

Paprika Pork

Method

• Heat the oil in a large pan, tip in the onions and cook for 10 mins until soft and golden.

• Add the pork and mushrooms and cook on a high heat for 3-4 mins until browned.

• Add the paprika and cook for 1 min more.

• Stir in the tomato purée, then pour on the stock and simmer for 5-8 mins until the pork is cooked through.

• Finally, mix in the soured cream and some seasoning.

• Serve with tagliatelle, egg noodles or rice, and an extra dollop of soured cream, if you like.

John Lamont MP

For many months, I have been contacted by a lot of local residents worried about the gender reforms being pursued by the SNP Government. Local people, especially women, are concerned about the potentially dangerous consequences of the current government policies on gender self-identification.

But in recent weeks, since SNP ministers allowed a double rapist to enter a women’s prison, the number of people raising their fears with me has increased dramatically. The case of the sex offender Adam Graham, who now wants to be known as Isla Bryson, has ignited public fury across the Borders and all of Scotland.

People are livid that this dreadful person was ever allowed into a women’s prison. They are enraged that SNP ministers let it happen, even though the rapist in question only chose to change gender after being charged by the police.

My own disgust at this case was provoked further when listening to one of the victims of this vile criminal. She was absolutely clear that this attempt to change gender was disingenuous. Eventually, under pressure from the Scottish Conservatives, Nicola Sturgeon was forced into a humiliating u-turn and removed this offender from a women’s prison. But somehow, the SNP leader still can’t bring herself to admit that this rapist is not a woman.

Every time, she dodges the question if Isla Bryson, formerly Adam Graham, is male or female. Sturgeon realises she has lost the Scottish public on this issue and is desperately trying not to make it worse by admitting the reality.

But the truth is that Nicola Sturgeon, somehow, unbelievably, considers this sex offender to be a woman. Even though he raped two women, Sturgeon's government's policies are explicit that this criminal should be considered a woman.

The public think it is utterly ridiculous to let a rapist claim to be a woman purely because he says so. But that is Nicola Sturgeon's policy, and it has real-world consequences for women's rights and safety in the future.

When Isla Bryson gets out of prison, this abhorrent offender will be able to force his way into women's spaces. Once more, this rapist will be able to target and traumatise women.

If that happens, and it will be possible under the current SNP government policies, Nicola Sturgeon should hang her head in shame.

Euan Jardine Councillor - Gala & District, Conservative

If you have read this column over the past few years, you will know that I am a big fan of the NFL team Kansas City Chiefs. I am writing this column with more excitement than usual because last night, they won the Super Bowl, and I have spent the day walking on cloud nine. A great way to round off the weekend after Scotland defeated Wales at Murrayfield. I hope Scottish success continues over the rest of the six nations. Of course, more things are happening in the world than sporting events, but there is something about sports that offers escapism from many issues that can grind you down if you let them continue to persist in your mind. One of those issues is loneliness, a significant problem across the country. A recent study by Harvard University said that loneliness has an equivalent risk factor to health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, shortening lifespan by eight years. We need to be aware of that as we lock our doors and become less community-focused.

I have always believed that hobbies of all varieties are the best way to get outside, meet other

This Month’s Easy Sudoku

How to play............

Fill the grid so that every row, column and every 3 x 3 box contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition.

That’s all there is to it! Use reasoning and logic to solve the puzzle - there’s no maths or adding up.

Look carefully for what numbers can go where and with a little practice it will get easier!

people and help increase happiness. Galashiels is an area with many clubs and activities; whether running with the Gala Harriers or crocheting at the focus centre, there is always something to do. I am also a keen advocate for the men's shed and would encourage anyone who has never been before to go and give it a go if you have a few hours to spare during the week.

I will hold an advice surgery on Wednesday, 1st March, 5-6 pm at Quins Restaurant Galashiels. Don't hesitate to contact me at the details below if you need assistance with any issues. Email - Euan.jardine@scotborders.gov.uk

Telephone – 07811977720

Facebook – @VoteEuanJardine Twitter - @VoteJardine

Citizens Advice Bureau

We have been incredibly busy over the past few months with enquiries from our local citizens on a very wide variety of topics and levels of support and information.

We do endeavour to deal with every enquiry as quickly as possible and this is due to the commitment and dedication of our team of, mainly, volunteer advisers. If you call in our opening hours and the phone is not answered it will be because our advisers are on other call. Please do leave a message or e-mail us and we will get back to you.

March will see the end of the current Cost of Living Payments and Energy Bills Support Scheme. However, the new Cost of Living payments will start again in the Spring. You can find out more at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/cost-of-living-payment#cost-of-living-payments-2023-to-2024

Central Borders Citizens Advice Bureau.

111 High Street, Galashiels RD1 1RZ.

Call 01896 753889.

e-mail: enquiries@centralborders.cab.casonline.org.uk website: www.galashielscab.org.uk

Monday – Thursday 10am – 4pm

Potato Day 2023

Borders Organic Gardeners’ Grand Event Returns!

Sunday 5th March 2023, 11.00 am - 3.00 pm. Borders Event Centre, Springwood Park, Kelso TD5 8LS

We have sourced 85 varieties of seed potato, (still 20p per tuber) mixing popular favourites with new modern varieties like drought-resistant maincrop Alanis and high-yielding, disease resistant Java; plus older ones that haven’t been available for some years including Edzell Blue, bred pre1915 and Dunbar Rover, 1936.

The Green Fair has local food producers, crafters, plants, environmental organisations, children's activities and café. To give advice we have BOG volunteers and the two nationally famous potato experts - Alan Romans and John Marshall.

We are regulating entrance for the first hour to reduce overcrowding and risk of virus transmission. A small number of varieties may sell out early, but we have plenty of stock so there’s no chance of not getting seed potatoes.

TIPS: To make your Cash Only payment quicker, please label each paper bag with the tuber variety and keep a total of how many tubers you have.

Visit Abbotsford

Explore the House, Chapel and Regency-era Walled Gardens and benefit from our pay once and visit free all year offer! The estate is perfect for local walkers with woodland and riverside walks, free exhibition and dog-friendly shop and café.

Treat yourself to lunch in Ochiltree’s café, unwind in the mindfulness garden and marvel at the beauty that the great Scottish writer himself, was inspired by. A great family day out with plenty of fun to be had for all ages! Visit our new Witch Corner trail, discover adventures around the estate or get involved in our activities and events throughout the year.

Open every day, 10am - 4pm. Dates & times are subject to change.

Coffee Morning

St Peter’s Primary School, Galashiels, Saturday 25th March, 10am - 12noon

St Peter’s Primary School Parent Council invite you to join us for a family-friendly coffee morning in our school hall.

Entrance: adults £3 which includes tea/coffee and a biscuit, children £1 and under 5’s free. Cake stall, raffle with great prizes, kids’ craft table and more. All funds raised go to supporting activities and learning within the school. We look forward to seeing you there.

Gala Opera - Return With Grease!

After 3 long years we are nearly there! In a weeks time the curtain will rise on our 2023 production of ‘GREASE’ and we will be back with a bang! The principals have been working hard for months to bring their characters to life on stage, the finishing touches are now being put to choreography and musical numbers are being perfected. Lights, sound, costumes, staging are all organised and the band is sounding fantastic. We are raring to go and can’t wait to bring you a fantastic night of entertainment with this high energy, funny, well loved show that is GREASE.

If you haven’t got your tickets yet, you can do so at the box office in the Volunteer Hall Galashiels from Monday 28th February 10am - 2pm Mon to Fri (10am - 12noon Saturday) or call our booking line on 07754588688. Make sure you get your tickets and come along to support us. As well as celebrating our return to the stage, you are guaranteed a fantastic night of entertainment in the company of the students and staff of Rydell High, telling their story through some of the best known songs in musical theatre. It is definitely the one that you want!

Tweeddale Mills Project

Former mill workers are invited to Eastgate Theatre, Peebles on March 16th at 7.30pm, when a partnership of community organisations officially launches the Mills of Tweeddale, designed to preserve the history of the industry that transformed the industry of the area from the mid-19th century.

Peebles Civic Society in partnership with Peebles Library, Museum and Gallery, community groups in Innerleithen and Walkerburn, are reaching out to those who worked in the woollen mill to help create exhibitions in the three communities, a film and an illustrated book.

Project leader Stephen Scott said, “We encourage anyone who worked in the mills and textile related enterprises to help us create a lasting record.” For further information, and to make contact see www.peeblescivicsociety.co.uk

Mac Arts - March 2023

Friday 3rd - Harris Trust Fundraiser. Doors 7pm / Tickets £15.

Saturday 4th - Moving Pictures (celebrating the music of Rush). Doors 7:30pm / Tickets £13 Advance.

Saturday 11th - These Wicked Rivers: The Calm Before The Storm Tour. Doors 7pm / Tickets £12 Advance.

Saturday 18th - Gun + support tbc. Doors 7:30pm / Tickets £24 Advance.

Thursday 23rd - Ivo Graham: My Future My Clutter. Starts 7:30pm/ Tickets £14.

Friday 24th - Tom Maguire And The Brassholes. Doors 7:30pm/ Tickets £13 Advance. Continued on page 26

Happy... Painting Time?

Easter - A religious festival spent painting our houses? Well, so it seems, with the likes of B&Q selling more paint over the Easter weekend than at any other time of the year.

Every time I tackle a painting job in the house it takes me ages to sort out the colour, and then there's the problem of sheen - what's the best for a particular job? What sheen should you go with for the kitchen? The bedroom? Does it even matter? Well, yes, the sheen of the paint can make a huge difference and choosing the right sheen level can completely transform the look of your walls, so make sure you consider different finishes to make the most of your space. Here's a quick guide to help you:

Paints are available in a number of different sheens. Before you select the sheen you will use for your room, it’s important to understand the qualities that each one has to offer. Paints without a shine or sheen are referred to as flat or matte finishes. They diffuse the light reflecting off the paint– that is, the light bounces off the paint in many different directions, with little or no shine. A semi-gloss or glossy sheen reflects light more directly, much as a mirror reflects light, which will create more shine.

Flat or Matte

Paint starts out glossy and loses lustre with the addition of titanium dioxide, a chalky material. Flat finishes have the most, making them very low on reflectivity. That means they mask flaws in irregular surfaces, but they scuff easily and all but the gentlest clean will damage the surface. They are commonly found in new houses where they camouflage an imperfect taping job on the plasterboard. Don't use in high traffic areas of the house as they damage too easily. The best place for flat paint is on the ceiling, where less reflection is a plus, however mattes can enhance the richness of a deep colour by giving a velvety appearance when used on a feature wall.

You will find two kinds of matte in the shopcontract matt, which is for new plaster and unpainted surfaces, and vinyl matt, for previously painted surfaces. It gives a stronger more durable

finish, not as velvety, but easier to clean.

Eggshell

This has a very slight sheen which is similar in appearance to the surface of an egg (obviously). This slight sheen creates a soft but still velvety finish. This now the most common paint finish for walls, it is tougher than matte and easier to clean.

Satin and Silk

A touch shinier, these are classed as ‘mid sheen', they look slightly polished and reflect a bit of light. Silk is a finish associated with walls (emulsion) and satin for woodwork (oil based). You can wipe silk wall finishes easily, which makes them very practical, but if you have less than perfect walls, all the lumps and bumps may show up a bit more. A satin finish on woodwork helps to hide imperfections and gives colour a softer appearance. Mid sheen paints make good accents on complex moulding profiles or wellprepped window and door casings. They resist fingerprints, scuffs, and stains and are ideal in kitchens or bathrooms.

Silk is also great in kids bedrooms or play areas as it cleans easily but is considered by some to be too shiny for the living room. Silk has become less popular as people discover eggshell.

Now we move on to the glossier paint, these are usually for woodwork and doors. Apart from some 'quick-dry' types, they are generally oil based paints, so are tough and easier to clean. If painting outside the house, like windows or doors, just make sure the paint says it is suitable for exterior use.

Semi Gloss

Some 'high end' manufactures produce semi gloss. It has all the characteristics and advantages of gloss paint, shinier than satin, without looking wet, this finish can work on any trim. It's better, though to reserve it for the likes of interior shutters, or allow its superior smudge resistance to protect a banister. All mid lustre finishes are a matter of taste - just prep well and anything can work.

Gloss

The shiniest finish available, high-gloss dries to a hard, glasslike sheen. The most brilliant oil-based glosses reflect light almost as well as a mirror, making them great for panelled interior doors or fine furniture, but too shiny for an intricately carved moulding or ceiling adornment. They can be scrubbed clean with ease. Gloss needs thorough preparation and careful patient application to get a perfect smooth finish.

Non Drip Gloss

You will be faced with the choice of non-drip, or what is sometimes labelled ‘Professional' gloss. The non drip is best for DIY as it is very easy to use (doesn't drip!), is self undercoating and self levelling. The professional gloss gives a very high standard of finish, but only if applied right and that means lots of sanding, preparation and a coat of undercoat first.

Quick Dry Gloss

Great if you don't want to wait overnight to apply a second coat, and as they are mostly water based they don't come with a like it or hate it paint smell. I always find them slightly translucent and definitely in need of a second coat. Also make sure you give it a really good stir as all the colour (even white) sinks to the bottom

of the tin. The biggest advantage of water based gloss paint is that there’s no oil in it, that means it stays whiter for longer.

One Coat

The only way you will achieve a good finish with a 'One-Coat' paint is to apply as directed on the tin. That means thick, and that means you will probably use twice as much as the ordinary stuff, so great for saving some time, not for saving some money! Also, too thick means runs and sags in the finish, so spend some time getting it just right.

Paint technology has evolved greatly in the past few years with the larger manufacturers offering special types for kitchens, bathrooms, even a tougher finish for kids areas. Companies like Dulux and Valspar can not only mix paint to any colour you want, but can mix it to any of their finishes as well. This is useful when matching a more expensive brand and in B&Q they will save the colour mix to your profile so you can buy again in any branch.

Right, pass the colour chart..........

Willie

Saturday 25th - Countess Of Fife. Doors 7:30pm / Tickets £9 Advance. Tickets and more information from www.macarts.scot / 01896 756852.

Galashiels Church of Scotland

Old Parish & St Paul’s Church – Scott Crescent TD1 3JU

St John’s Church – Hawthorn Road, Langlee TD1 2JZ

Trinity Church – High St TD1 1SE

We are a united congregation who want to be God glorifying and Christ exalting in our worship. The Word of God is faithfully preached and therefore we would like to invite everyone to come and listen to God speaking to us through His Word.

Sunday services are in these church buildings:

5th March 11am Trinity, 6.30pm St John’s

12th March 11am Old Parish & St Paul’s, 6.30pm St John’s

19th March 11am Trinity, 6.30pm St John’s

26th March 11am Old Parish & St Paul’s, 6.30pm St John’s Prayer Meeting – Wednesdays at 7pm in St John’s.

Bible Study – House group meets on Tuesday mornings.

Girls Brigade

1st Galashiels Girls' Brigade meets on Mondays in St John's Church halls, Langlee.

Explorers P1-P3 6-7pm

Juniors P4-P7 6-7pm

Brigaders S1-S6 7- 8.30pm

Please contact Susan Henderson for more information about joining us: 1stgalagb@gmail.com

Choir – Rehearsals on Thursdays at 7pm in Trinity building.

Guild – Tuesdays at 2.15pm in Old Parish & St Paul’s on 14th and 28th March.

For further information

Minister: Rev Graeme Glover e-mail: GGlover@churchofscotland.org.uk phone: 01896 209455, website: www.galashielschurchofscotland.org.uk

Galashiels Baptist Church

Galashiels Baptist Church would like to share stories about what goes on at our church and introduce you to some of the people who are part of the Church family.

This month it is the turn of Rhona Jamieson: Tell us a little bit about you:

I’m a married mum of two young boys. I’m originally from Glasgow but have moved all over the UK during my life. I’ve been living in the Scottish Borders for almost 8 years now and this is definitely home now as we love living in this community.

Why did you start coming to GBC:

I’ve been going to church all my life and my faith is part of who I am. Wherever I’ve lived, I’ve

Last Month's Sudoko Answers

always sought out the nearest Baptist Church to attend. That’s the denomination of Christianity that I’m most familiar with and the one that fits best with my own personal faith.

What are you involved with at GBC:

I’m a member of the worship band and help provide the music for our Sunday services each week by playing flute and sometimes singing. I also help out with the audio-visual technology for our meetings and I’m one of the Church Deacons, the trustees, that help look after day-to-day business.

Why is music so important to you:

The Bible encourages us to worship God by singing and playing music so songs have been part of the Christian faith since the very beginning. Like my faith, music has always been a central part of my life. It helps me reduce anxiety and fills me with great joy. It’s also one way that I communicate with God by allowing me to put everyday life to one side and get lost in the beauty of the melodies and lyrics.

What kind of music do you play at GBC:

The worship band consists of myself, a pianist, some acoustic guitar players and a bass guitarist which allows us to be quite flexible. There are times when we’ll do a powerful traditional hymn and other times when we’ll do an upbeat, modern, pop-style song. My favourite is when we do reflective music, sometimes with no words or singing, and create an atmosphere of reverence and peace. Music is always a central part of our services and people are free to sing along or just listen.

If you’d like to join us for a Sunday service, Galashiels Baptist Church meets every Sunday at 10:30am in our building on Victoria Street.

Bowden & Melrose Parish Church

Minister Rev. Rosemary Frew. 01896 822217 email RFrew@churchofscotland.org.uk

Office: 01896 823339 email bowden.melrosepc@btinternet.com

Sunday Worship

We meet for worship at 9.30am in Bowden Kirk and at 11.00am in Melrose Church. The Melrose service is live streamed, and you can join us on our church website or Facebook page or watch the recording thereafter www.bowdenandmelrosechurch.org

A worship podcast is posted in Facebook, Instagram and our website on Saturday evenings. You can listen on 01896 808551.

Friday 3 March, 2.30pm – World Day of Prayer Service in St Cuthbert’s Roman Catholic Church, Melrose

Sunday 5 March, 10.00am – Family Service in Melrose Church

Sunday 26 March, 3.00-5.00pm – Messy Church in Melrose Church and Hall.

Caddonfoot Parish Church

Services continued in Caddonfoot Parish Church over the past month led by the Rev Victoria Linford and members of the congregation during her holiday and Study Leave absence.

Mrs Fay Brydon, Mrs Catriona Bird, and Miss Frances Pringle led worship with other church members reading the Bible.

Once again, music is regularly provided by Andy Bird (keyboard and piano) and Mrs Bird (flute).

The Sacrament of Holy Communion was held on February 5 and coming up will be the Stated Annual Meeting (SAM), which follows the morning service on March 5. The week after is the Mothering Sunday service.

Advance notice, too, that there will be a Good Friday Communion service at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 7 and the Easter Day service on Sunday, April 9, at 9.45 a.m.

The Kirk Session met on February 23 when various items were discussed.

The Easter Church and Community newsletter is in the process of being published.

Food Bank donations of unperishable items can be left in the vestry where they will be collected and distributed for collection. The Food Bank will also accept dog food.

The Melrose and Peebles Presbytery, which was formed in 1976, is now linked up with the new Lothians and Borders Presbytery.

Visitors should exercise care when walking through the Memorial Garden area, which has re-opened.

Atholl Innes continues to collect disused stamps for the Eden Valley Hospice in Brampton and thanks to all who have donated.

Roman Catholic Parish of Our Lady & St Andrew

Galashiels - Our Lady & St Andrew’s, Stirling Street, TD1 1BY

Holy Mass: Sunday 11am, Wednesday 7.30pm, Friday and Saturday 10am.

Melrose - St Cuthbert’s, High Cross Avenue, TD6 9SQ

Holy Mass: Sunday 9.15am, Thursday 10am.

World Day of Prayer: Friday 3 March at 2.30pm.

Selkirk - Our Lady & St Joseph’s, High Street, TD7 4JX

Holy Mass : Saturday (Vigil) 6pm, Monday 10am.

Parish Priest: Father Andrew Kingham.

Email: parishpriest@galacatholic.org

Telephone : 01896 752 328 Facebook : @borderscatholic

Check our website at www.galacatholic.org for our weekly newsletter and for up-to-date information about events.

St Peter’s Episcopal Church, Galashiels

10.30am services every Sunday followed by tea/coffee and biscuits.

6.00pm Healing service every 2nd Sunday of the month.

Do come along and join us, especially if you are new to the area.

Vestry secretary John Marsden 07538 094986 john@mustardseedsshared.org contact John to book the hall for regular groups or social gatherings.

Share Your News

If you would like to be included in our community section then please email us at info@galalife.co.uk Entries should be less than 300 words and arrive by 12th preceding month.

GALA LIFE

• Gala Life - The Border’s favourite magazine has been running 14 years. A lot of our advertisers stay with us - because it works and continuously generates lots of business.

• Price - Gala Life is the most cost effective way to reach all the residents and businesses in the Galashiels, Melrose and surrounding areas.

• It is truly local - all advertisers operate in, or close to the area.

• Longevity - It isn’t thrown away like the local newspaper. Everyone keeps it as a point of reference from one month to the next.

• Gala Life is published monthly - around the last weekend of the month.

• It is delivered to over 11,500 homes and businesses every month, with up to an additional 500 made readily available for visitors and tourists to pick up.

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We offer a generous discounts for repeat adverts in blocks of 3, 6 or 12 issues. Please call to discuss the options available.

April Edition 13th March

May Edition 13th April

June Edition 13th May

July Edition 13th June

August Edition 13th July

September Edition 13th August

To advertise in Gala Life, to discuss your requirements, or for more information - please contact Debbie on 07545299491 or info@galalife.co.uk

Gala Rugby Club

Exciting Times

Gala put on their best away game performance of the season as they headed to Kelso who were unbeaten at home. The game kicked off with both sides in pursuit of 5 points and it was Kelso who drew first blood kicking a penalty in the opening stages. This was quickly followed by the first Kelso try of the game inside the first 10 minutes. Gala were able to get themselves on the score sheet as Harris Ruthford stuck Galas first penalty through the uprights making it 10- 3 to the home side. Kelso then stretched their lead with a try but Gala were quick to respond with a try of their own. The game was very much a back and forth with who was in front, and it was Gala who went into the second half in the lead. Throughout the second half this could have been anyone’s game and with Kelso in front by 1 point in the closing stages of the game they were fighting to hold on. Gala were awarded a penalty and opted for the kick, Criag Dods stuck it nicely between the uprights giving the Maroon’s the lead, shortly after this another penalty was awarded and again Dods kicked successfully, the final score Kelso 31 Gala 36.

Gala were then back at Netherdale for a first round Scottish Cup match against Premiership side Glasgow Hawks, which was an extremely exciting match. Gala were quick to get their first try but Hawks fired back with their own moments later. The match was as close as you could get with both sides giving it their own. Tied on 20 points each extra time was to be played. Ten minutes each way and it really close with Gala scoring a penalty which then was followed by Hawks also kicking a pen tied on 23-23 the Hawks had the final say as they successfully kicked a last minute penalty making the final score Gala 23 Hawks 26.

Congratulations are in order for two of our Gala players Harris Rutherford and Murray Wilson who were both selected to represent Scotland U20 Squad in their 6 Nations. We are extremally proud of both of them and wish them and the Scotland squad a successfully tournament.

Gala youth side the Red Triangle have had a mixed bag of results in the new year with a win at home against Peebles and a defeat at the hands of Currie. The U18 Gala Wanderers have had a great run of games beating both Kelso and Jed in their most recent matches. We hosted a ladies rugby match at Netherdale where Gala/Berwick played St Andrews/Bannockburn it was brilliant to see the ladies section getting games.

Photos courtesy of Alwyn Johnston

Gala 1sts

4th Stirling (Away)

11th Melrose – Ladies Day (Home)

17th Biggar (Home)

Gala A

11th Jed (Away)

FIXTURES

March 2023

Mini’s training Sundays 10-11am

Vixens training Wednesdays 6.45-7.45pm

A CONCISE HISTORY OF CHOCOLATE

Chocolate.

It’s our our emotional

remedy, the not-so-guilty guilty pleasure and a reliable gift choice and if you don’t like it you are often met with a very open face of slight judging disbelief and placed in a different social category. On average in the UK we consume an estimated 660,900 tonnes of chocolate a year, an average of 11kg per person per year; roughly 3 bars per week. This puts us in 4th place as the world’s biggest chocolate consumers after Switzerland (unsurprisingly) taking the top spot, Germany and Ireland. However, our beautifully refined, sweet, smooth indulgent heaven in a bar is a far cry from its origin. Chocolate was in fact a healthy bitter beverage from the gods and the use of cacao beans dates as far back as 3300BCE. Throughout history chocolate would become increasingly popular and play an important political, spiritual and economic role.

CHOCOLATE, WHAT IS IT AND WHO INVENTED IT?

Chocolate is made from the fruit of cacao (kukow) trees, which are native to Central and South America. The fruits are called pods, all be it technically, it is a berry, and each pod contains around 40 cacao beans. The beans are dried and roasted to create cocoa beans. You can eat the fruit flesh, of which is said to have a complex sweet and tart flavour with hints of citrus, mango and even pineapple.

It’s unclear exactly when cacao was initially discovered and used; but archaeologists have

discovered the earliest traces of cacao residue including theobromine and caffeine in pottery and stone artefacts used by the ancient MayoChinchipe culture 5,300 years ago in the upper Amazon region of Ecuador. Ancient Mesoamericans believed chocolate was an energy booster and aphrodisiac with mystical and medicinal qualities. The Mayans in particular believing it was a gift from the gods. The cacao beans were roasted and ground into a paste, mixed with water, vanilla, chili peppers and other spices to brew a frothy chocolate drink and was used in ceremonies and as spiritual offerings, as well as readily available to everyone to enjoy alongside their meal.

AZTEC GOLD

By the 1400s the Aztec empire spread across Mesoamerica and took chocolate admiration to another level. Calling it xocolatl and like the Mayans also believed cacao was a gift from the gods. However, because it wouldn’t grow in the dry highlands of Mexico it became a valuable asset in its rarety. Thus only making it available to the wealthy, and being used as currency, and was even considered to be more valuable than gold. Perhaps the most notorious Aztec chocolate lover of all was the Aztec ruler Montezuma II who allegedly drank 50 cups of chocolate a day out of a golden goblet to increase his libido.

CHOCOLATES ARRIVAL TO EUROPE

By the 1500s cacao makes its arrival to Europe. There are many stories to its initial arrival, with one story suggesting it was Christopher Columbus who discovered cacao beans after intercepting a trade ship on a journey to America and bringing back the beans to Spain in 1502. Another tale suggests the Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes kept his chocolate knowledge a well-guarded secret after he was introduced to it by the Aztecs of Montezuma’s court. And a third story claims that friars who

presented Guatemalan Mayans to Philip II of Spain in 1544 also brought cacao beans along as a gift. Who knows? However, chocolate became a muchloved indulgence within the Spanish court that by 1585 Spain was importing it.

Chocolate’s popularity spread to other European courts, where aristocrats consumed it as a magic health boosting elixir. Leading to European powers establishing colonial plantations in equatorial regions around the world to grow cacao and sugar cane. Sadly Mesoamerican labour began to deplete due to an influx of diseases brought in by the Europeans leading to the importation of African slaves to continue working on plantations and maintain chocolate production.

By 1689 physician Hans Sloane created chocolate milk, after being inspired by a trip to Jamaica where the locals boiled cacao water, and he added milk and sugar to try and make it more palatable. Upon his return home he began selling his ‘Sir Hans Sloane’s Milk Chocolate’ at a London apothecary as a medicinal drink.

Chocolate became so popular by 1729 it was then commercialised in the UK. Walter Churchman from Bristol invented the first patented cacao bean grinder. A hydraulic engine that allowed for a faster and finer cacao crushing process.

THE OFFICIAL FOOD OF THE GODS

Although the Aztecs and Mayans already believed chocolate was a gift from the Gods, it wasn’t until 1753 that chocolate was officially coined ‘Food of the Gods’ by Swedish taxonomist Carl Linnaeus. He identified the health benefits and medicinal uses of chocolate, and while putting together the systematic list of names for living things, he sought out inspiration from the Aztecs. Naming the cacao plant Theobroma cacao; from the Latin name Theobroma meaning ‘food of the gods’ and the Aztec word xocolatl meaning ‘bitter water’.

CACAO POWDER

By 1815 Dutch chemist Casparus van Houten and his son Coenraad open a chocolate factory in Amsterdam, and by 1828 have their hydraulic cacao press patented. The press mechanically, and inexpensively, separates the cacao butter from the beans, making the beans drier and finer, almost powder like. It was then Coenraad van Houten who discovered that by treating the powder with alkaline salts that the powdered cacao was easier to mix into water. This process became known as ‘Dutch Processing’ and the powder called ‘Dutch Cocoa’. This process became the foundation of nearly all chocolate products and allowed chocolate to be more readily available to everyone rather than the just the wealthy.

FROM DRINK TO BAR

The first ever chocolate bar was credited to British chocolatier J.S Fry & Sons in 1847, where cocoa powder was mixed with melted cocoa butter and sugar and then pressed into moulds. It was then the Swiss who took things further. In 1867 Henri Nestle created condensed milk and in 1875 he supplied Swiss chocolatier Daniel Peter with condensed milk to add to his chocolate thus making the first ever milk chocolate bar. Together bringing Nestle’s milk chocolate to the mass market.

Just as when you think the chocolate bar couldn’t get any better, another Swiss chocolatier Rudolph Lindt in 1879 invents a machine known as the chocolate conching machine. This machine evenly distributes the cocoa butter and aerates it, allowing the chocolate flavour to be enhanced and its texture to be irresistibly melt-in-your-mouth smooth.

By the late 19th Century and early 20th century other family chocolatiers such as Cadbury, Mars and Hershey began mass producing their own milk chocolate in Britain and America.

HEALTH BENEFITS

All be it today’s chocolate bars have been continuously refined and are no longer considered healthy due to the high quantities of sugar, raw cacao has earned its place as a superfood. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals such as iron, magnesium, copper and zinc, and packed with flavonoids, cacao has huge health benefits; improving heart health, reducing the risk of diabetes, lowering blood pressure, easing inflammation and protecting cells from oxidative stress, reducing stress, improving energy levels and even improving cognitive function.

Now thats the perfect excuse to ingulge in a bar of rich dark choclate.

The Gala Garden March

It takes devotion to grow and maintain a good lawn. As spring sunshine sweeps across the lawn it may reveal mustard yellow moss, crusty patches of dog lichen and some mysterious slimy black grass.

Poor drainage is the cause of most lawn problems. Clay soil is easily compacted and there is a lot of rain. Bare spots appear in the shade of big trees; weeds and moss come in because the grass is sparse.

There are three key things to do: aeration, proper mowing and feeding. These three actions will strengthen the grass. Aerating the turf is the first step. Unless you have acres, on a dry day, put on your gloves, take up the spring tine rake and go out in the sun. Raking out the moss and debris opens the ground and is very good for your core muscles. Get the mower serviced and sharpened while you do this. Don’t do all the raking at once: rake in one direction today and then in a few days rake again across that at right angles. For big lawns hire a scarifier or get a professional service in to help.

Proper mowing is an essential part of lawn care. There are two easy ways to improve your lawn: first, set the blade height right for the season and, second, start from a different corner each time.

Blade height should not be too low at first –about an inch; cutting grass too short reduces vigour. If you mow up and down this time, next

time go side to side at right angles to the first cut. Each time you mow will bush out the grass on the side of the cut. Always mowing in the same direction makes ridges in the lawn and weakens the grass.

At the first sign of drought raise the mower blade height to just over an inch and reduce the number of cuts from weekly to once every ten days. It won’t be necessary, or helpful, to water the lawn; use water in the vegetable garden or to help keep any newly planted trees and shrubs alive.

The last task is applying a spring weed and feed mixture. On a small or medium-sized lawn you can do this by hand but it would help to use a spreader on large areas. Get enough fertiliser for the size of the area and empty it into a bucket. Add grass seed if there are bare patches. Now fill the bucket with compost and stir it well to mix thoroughly. The compost is good for the lawn but really just shows you where you have been. Now sprinkle, walking up and down in one direction. A small handful of this mix to one square metre is about right.

Then take a stiff broom and brush the lawn at right angles to the direction you were walking. The mix will soon get watered in and by April you will see a huge improvement. Put a pinch of rock salt on each dandelion.

Sheila Drummond

NEW TRICKS FOR OLD DOGS Managing Canine Arthritis

Dr Olivia Goad, Veterinary Surgeon

Osteoarthritis is a common and painful degenerative condition of joints. It can affect up to 35% of dogs of all ages, and 80% of dogs older than 8 years. Degenerative joint disease and osteoarthritis results in inflammation of the joint, cartilage destruction, increased joint fluid and bony remodeling around the joint. This leads to further inflammation, pain, and abnormal joint function.

How To Recognise Arthritis

Clinical signs of osteoarthritis include lameness, joint swelling, muscle wastage and thickening of the affected joints. It is a degenerative, chronic condition so the pain signals displayed by our pets are not typical of what we would expect to see in acute/sudden pain.

Chronic pain can be expressed in many ways and many owners don’t recognize their pet is painful until they are crying or limping. We want to catch arthritic pain before it gets this bad.

Signs of arthritic pain in dogs include:

• Decreased tolerance to handling

• Depression

• Reluctance to walk/jump

• Lameness/limping

• Slow to rise after rest

• Difficulty toileting

• Sleeping more than usual

• Difficulty getting comfortable

• Loss of appetite

Home Care

There are many simple at-home modifications that can be implemented to ensure your dog with arthritis is as comfortable as possible. Regular, short, controlled walks. Lying down all day

www.bordervets.co.uk

Galashiels Veterinary Surgery

Gala Terrace, Galashiels TD1 3JT

01896 752156

can cause joints to stiffen and sprinting after a ball repeatedly puts too much strain on already sore joints. Weight – excess body weight increases stress on joints, which exacerbates pain. Fatty tissue also contains inflammatory mediators which further aggravates arthritic pain.

Slip free flooring – rugs with non-skid backing are a great option.

Restricting access to certain areas of the house – baby gates work well to prevent access to stairs, slippery floors, or other dangerous areas of the house. Ramps and steps help give access to areas of the house, car or furniture where arthritic dogs would otherwise be unable to jump up to. Alternative bedding on the floor is also a good option. Keep arthritic dogs’ nails short to reduce strain on their joints.

Comfortable warm bed that they enjoy sleeping in. Raising food and water dishes to approximately your dog’s elbow height can help reduce back pain

Managing Arthritis

There is unfortunately no cure for arthritis, instead we need to focus on relieving pain and other symptoms associated. Traditional pain relief medications (anti-inflammatories), joint supplements, hydrotherapy, physiotherapy, and other additional therapeutics can all be integrated into successful arthritis management. Most dogs can live very happily for many years after diagnosis and their quality of life is always of utmost importance. If you think your pet is struggling, speak to your vet and they will be able to advise you on suitable options for your pet.

Office: Monday - Friday 8.00am - 6.00pm. Saturday 8.30am - 1pm.

Consultations by appointment

HOROSCOPES

BY CHRISTINE CHALKLIN

For March 2023

March is an astrologically power packed month, we haven’t experienced anything like this in our lifetime! Major planetary shifts will colour all of our lives for the decades to come, as we have the opportunity to open our hearts and move into our personal power. The main player here is Pluto, planet of endings and beginnings, will arrive in the sign of Aquarius on March 23rd. The last time Pluto passed through this sign was between 1778 and 1798 – a revolutionary and transformative period of time that changed the way the world viewed power, money, technology and society as a whole. Aquarius is a humanitarian sign, championing individuality, equality and freedom of expression; so hopefully whatever is ahead will be for the better. This month also sees the arrival of the planet Saturn into the water sign of Pisces. Saturn, our wise teacher, last travelled through this sign from 1993 to1996, marking many big changes on a global scale. Venus and Jupiter are both in fiery Aries, suggesting a sense of excitement and optimism. Action planet Mars arrives in Cancer on the 25th, a big energy shift after a 5 month stay in Gemini. This year’s Spring Equinox falls in the evening of the 20th, closely followed by the powerful Aries new moon the day after. The full moon is in Virgo on the 7th.

ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

The combination of the radiant Sun and mystical Neptune in the most intuitive sector of your chart presents exciting opportunities for you and your career. Venus and Jupiter, both strong in your sign, offer amazing and creative new insights as your personal charisma reaches new heights. Watch out for the new moon in your sign on the 21st - it marks an important turning point!

TAURUS APRIL 21 - MAY 21

March is all about finding a much gentler way of life, particularly if things have been rather hectic during the last year. The Sun and Neptune are joined in spiritually minded Pisces and encourage you to tune in and connect with your life purpose. Interesting new groups of like-minded friends appear on the horizon and creativity is highlighted, this is the year to find your deepest passion.

GEMINI MAY 22 - JUNE 21

March is a powerful career month with the emphasis on you reaching your goals; action planet Mars remains in your sign until the 25th, make the most of this positive energy. Optimistic Jupiter in fiery Aries highlights the need for you firm up connections with like-minded people, who in turn will help you to accomplish your plans for this year. The new moon on the 21st brings an energy boost.

CANCER JUNE 22 - JULY 22

Finances and resources are in the spotlight this month as Mercury and Saturn ask you to begin a thorough reassessment. Keep yourself focussed as you now have the power to be very persuasive in any necessary negotiations. Jupiter and Venus, both positively placed in dynamic Aries, offer the chance of a profitable breakthrough, suggesting that this could be an extremely productive month.

LEO JULY 23 - AUGUST 23

Planetary alignments suggests that higher education and travel plans will be top priorities for you this month. Powerful Pluto arriving in your opposite sign on the 23rd offers great insight into where you are on your life path. Self-awareness and renewed confidence should enable you to push forward with some inspirational ideas. The Aries new moon on the 21st indicates a marvellous energy boost.

VIRGO AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 22

The full moon in your sign on the 7th illuminates where you are on your life journey. Stern Saturn arrives in your opposite sign on the 8th, helping you apply your wisdom and your energies to constructive pursuits. The Sun and Neptune are also prominent around this time highlighting inspirational and intuitive experiences. New and exciting ideas to push you forwards occur at the spring equinox on the 20th

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 23

The month’s events hinge around Venus, your ruling planet, and optimistic Jupiter both active in your opposite sign. Relationships are the main topic, be sure to talk to partners and colleagues about the bigger issues and dig deep to unearth new truths. The Equinox on the 20th and the new moon on the 21st both show that freedom and individuality are more important than ever before.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

This month’s major planetary activity turns your attention to your home and family; transformational Pluto arrives on the 23rd, be prepared for change and big shakeups. Use this month to look ahead as the radiant Sun and Mystical Neptune encourage you to find intuitive and creative solutions to any challenges. The Aries new moon on the 21st encourages optimism.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

March is dominated by a restructure of your personal finances and earning capacity. Transformational Pluto encourages you to dig deep and stick to your plans, so that you have a really good chance of succeeding. The fiery Aries new moon on the 21st suggests that a long term creative project can finally get underway, as long as you trust that the universe is supporting you.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

March indicates that finances and resources are in the spotlight, challenges and change are on offer and you’ll need to make some important decisions. Saturn, your ruling planet, is about to leave Aquarius and enter the more fluid sign of Pisces. This shift encourages your intuition and offers a more creative outlook. The spring Equinox on the 20th and the Aries new moon on the 21st are important dates.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 18

March is a very important month as stern Saturn, in your sign since 2020, is about to leave for a more fluid and intuitive journey through the mystical water sign of Pisces. Transformational Pluto arrives on the 23rd, both these major shifts indicate innovative insight and big changes in the pace of your life. The powerful Aries new moon on the 21st puts the emphasis on communication.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20

The powerful full moon in your opposite sign of Virgo on the 7th brings much needed clarity and focus into many areas of your life. This full moon also illuminates the arrival of Saturn into your sign for a two and a half year stay. This is the time for manifesting your dreams by initiating new beginnings, particularly if you focus less on the material and more on the spiritual side of your life.

NAVIGATE YOUR WAY THROUGH these challenging times, discover your unique birth map and take a refreshing new look at this important year ahead. Find out when positive and productive planetary cycles are working in your favour. Aim to reach your fullest potential in 2023 by booking an astrological reading now - Consultations are available on Zoom, WhatsApp or by telephone.

Christine Chalklin

Inspirational Astrologer and Life Coach

Email: christine_chalklin@hotmail.com Website: www.yourguidinglight.org

Mobile: 07813 483549 Find me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/restyleyourlife

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