Monday in Edinburgh – What’s On Today

The Hive - toddler time, Cameo, Jan 2015

Toddler Time: The Hive (U). Screenings designed to introduce young children to the cinema., with 30-minutes shows for pre-school children and their parents/carers. This week join Buzzbee and his friends in their fun-packed adventures – whether they’re on a treasure hunt or camping under the stars, there’s always something new to learn and share. 11am, Cameo, Home Street. £3 per child, accompanying adults free if they join Toddler Time (free – ask at Box Office). Babies under 12 months free. Book online or call the Box Office on 0871 902 5723.

Building Echoes: Artist’s Talk & Screening. Building Echoes analyses the relationship between architecture and art. Alberto Condotta, one of the two exhibitors, will give a talk in the gallery, followed by a screening of Robert Cahen’s short film Juste Le Temps (1983); the film is centered on an encounter between a man and a woman on a train journey. Through the manipulation of imagery and the lack of spoken words, the film plays with the formulation of narrative and temporality. 4pm, Interview Room 11, 38 Castle Terrace. Interview Room 11 is a not-for-profit artist run gallery and project space, and part of the Forest+ arts complex.

Testament of Youth image

For Crying Out Loud: Testament of Youth (12A). These are screenings for parents/carers and their babies under 12 months; baby changing, bottle warming and buggy parking facilities available. 11am, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets cost £4.50/£3.50 per adult, maximum of two adults per child. (Note: no screening next week – next is A Night At The Opera on 2nd February).

Minecraft Building Club: come and try this new club – it just started last week! 3.30-4.30pm, Moredun Library, 92 Moredun Park Road. Also at same time on Wednesdays.

Peartree Quiz: know your physics from your psychics? Still in mourning for the loss of 15-to-1? Then you’ll love the Peartree quiz. All welcome! 9-11pm, Peartree, West Nicolson Street. £1 per team – get there early as tables fill up quickly.

Sofi’s Cult Movie Night: popular classics on the silver screen in the back room, with free popcorn! 8-10pm, Sofi’s, 65 Henderson Street.

area C coffee house

Radical Independence Campaign with Cat Boyd: RIC were very prominent during the referendum campaign, so if you want to find out what they are about, this is your chance. Cat Boyd is the co-founder of RIC. 7-9.30pm, Area C Coffee House, 239 Leith Walk. Organised by Common Weal Edinburgh North and Leith.

Leith Central Community Council: Everyone is welcome to attend these meetings and engage with what is happening in the local area. 7pm, Nelson Room, McDonald Road Library, 2-4 McDonald Road. Contact secretary.lccc@leithcentralcc.co.uk for more information.

Mission Antarctica - Adventure Film Festival January 2015

The 10th Annual Adventure Film Festival: Programme 1. The festival features eleven of the world’s most exciting action and adventure documentary films. From free climbing in Yosemite to mountain biking in Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor, and from canyoneering in Australia to surfing under the northern lights in Norway’s Arctic Circle, each of the three film programmes gives filmgoers a diverse and inspiring look at how modern day pioneers of exploration and adventure are pushing the boundaries of what we thought possible. Programme 1 consists of six short films: programme 2 will be shown on 26th January and Programme 3 on 2nd February 2015. 6pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Prices vary: bookings can be made online or by calling the Box Office on 0131 228 2688.

Stockbridge Church Toddler Group: for babies and toddlers. 10-11.30am, Stockbridge Parish Church, Saxe Coburg Street.

Linlithgow Film Society: The Railway Man (15) starring Nicole Kidman and Colin Firth. ‘A powerful and inspiring tale of heroism, humanity and the redeeming power of love’ . 7.30pm, Linlithgow Academy Theatre, Braehead Road. Non-members £4/£3, under 16s £2, payable on the door. For membership information, see website.

LGBT Spiritual Space: Maxwell Reay, NHS Community Mental Health Chaplain, offers a supportive space for people to discuss and develop ideas of spirituality and identity. For people of all faiths and no faith at all. This month there will be opportunities for individual conversations, and information regarding spiritual needs. 6.30-7.30pm (within weekly Drop-In, which runs 5.30-8pm), LGBT Health & Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. For more information contact the centre on 0131 523 1100 or email admin@lgbthealth.org.uk.

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Adult Book Group: join the group for lively, friendly book chatter – no previous experience required! The group meets monthly to discuss a wide range of books – fiction and non-fiction, classic and contemporary, prizewinners and cult heroes; whatever you fancy! Currently reading Donna Tartt’s The Secret History. (Next month Eleanor Updale’s The Last Minute). 6-8pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. If you would like to join, just email your details to events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk.

the last wild

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Children’s Book Group: if you are 8-11 years old with a love of books and biscuits, join the group to enjoy a friendly hour of fiction. Come and discover more books to treasure! Currently reading Piers Torady’s The Last Wild. 6-7pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. If you would like to join, just email your details to childrens.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk.

The Hidden Generation: Contemporary Art in Awkward Places. Dr Andrew Patrizio looks at some of the more obscure and far-flung places that artists worked with as part of the 2014 GENERATION exhibition – from hidden collections and archives to Scotland’s country houses, and on to Fingal’s Cave and even the moon. 12.45-1.30pm, Hawthornden Lecture Theatre, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed.

generation exhibition poster 2014-15




Where to celebrate Burns Night in Edinburgh!

Whether you like your Burns Night traditional, alternative – or even ‘radical’ – there’s something for every taste in Edinburgh this year. So dig out the kilt, brew the whisky and groom the haggis – and celebrate the life of Scotland’s national poet. Here’s a selection of what’s on offer:

WEDNESDAY 21ST JANUARY 2015

burns at storytelling centre

Supper with Burns: an alternative Burns Supper in the beautiful setting of the Storytelling Cafe, serving up a delicious three-course dinner – with the centrepiece haggis – and a generous helping of Burns stories, songs and lore. Hosted by storytellers David Campbell and Linda Bandelier, with Donald Smith and clarsach player Katie Harrigan. Book early to avoid disappointment! 7-10pm, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £30 and can be booked online here or by calling 0131 556 9579. Also at same time on Thursday 22nd January 2015 (Tuesday 20th already sold out)..

The Sun Inn Burns Supper: enjoy a four course meal at this beautiful old coaching inn and AA Four Star hotel close to the River Esk. The Sun Inn, Lothianbridge, Dalkeith. £30 per person: to book call the hotel on 0131 663 2456.

the sun inn in winter

THURSDAY 22ND JANUARY 2015

leith festival burns

Leith Festival Burns Night Fundraiser: 7pm, Leith Dockers Club, 17 Academy Street. £20/£15: to book call 0131 553 1929 or 0131 629 1214.

Supper with Burns: an alternative Burns Supper in the beautiful setting of the Storytelling Cafe, serving up a delicious three-course dinner – with the centrepiece haggis – and a generous helping of Burns stories, songs and lore. Hosted by storytellers David Campbell and Linda Bandelier, with Donald Smith and clarsach player Katie Harrigan. Book early to avoid disappointment! 7-10pm, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £30 and can be booked online here or by calling 0131 556 9579. Also at same time on Wednesday 21st January 2015 (Tuesday 20th January already sold out)..

scottish storytelling logo

FRIDAY 23RD JANUARY 2015

st columba's hospice burns night poster

St Columba’s Hospice  Fundraising Burns Supper: hosted by Grant Scott, featuring Bruce Fummey and including Still Game’s Tam and Isa aka Jane McCarry and Mark Cox. Welcoming drink, 3-course meal, cheeseboard and whisky, plus ceilidh with music from Corra. 7pm-late, Corn Exchange, Newmarket Road. £55 per person: tickets can be booked by emailing fund@stcolumbashospice.org.uk or calling 0131 551 1381. St Columba’s is also appealing for bottles – of wine, whisky or whatever alcohol you like – as prizes, so if you can donate anything, please drop it off at the hospice reception at 15 Boswell Road.

 SATURDAY 24TH JANUARY 2015

royston wardieburn burns night 2015

Burns Night Community Ceilidh! An evening of live poetry, music, food (haggis, neeps and tatties) and dance. If you would like to perform a poem, song or dance, contact Rachel at llh.pchp.org.uk. 5-9.30pm (food served 5.30-6.30pm), Royston Wardieburn Community Centre, Pilton Drive North. Tickets £1 in advance only, from the Community Centre Reception. Wear comfy shoes for the sports hall floor. Children welcome when accompanied by a parent or carer.

cafe tartine sign

Cafe Tartine Burns Supper: a three course meal and a nip of whisky, with actor Jock Ferguson compering and reciting some Burns, plus live music from a Scots folk trio. Guests are encouraged to read out their own favourite Burns poem! 7.30 for 8pm, Cafe Tartine, 72 Commerical Street. £29.95 per person: early booking advised on 0131 554 2588.

scotsman hotel

The Scotsman Hotel’s Burns Night: a delicious four course Burns supper with Haig whisky cocktails – ‘a traditional Scottish experience with a piper to address the haggis’. For over 18s only. 6.30 (prompt)-9pm, The Scotsman Hotel, 20 North Bridge. £50 per person + booking fee: to reserve your places, call the hotel direct on 0131 622 2900.

neu reekie burns on fire image

Neu Reekie’s Burns On Fire: ‘a wild carousel of poetry, colour, visuals and music’. Poets, musicians, DJs and more, including Kathleen Jamie, Tam Dean Burn, Kevin Williamson and the BARK Collective, and Emelle. Ticket price includes haggis (vegetarian version available), neeps and tatties and a complementary whisky. 7pm, Thomas Morton Hall (Next to Leith Theatre), 29-30 Ferry Road. Tickets cost £15 each and are available from Brown Paper Tickets. Neu Reekie is supported by Creative Scotland and this event is in association with Leith Theatre Trust.

The Welcoming Burns Night Ceilidh: an evening of traditional Scottish ceilidh dancing with an international twist – live Scottish music from the Ceilidh Minnow Band and African music from Rise Kagona! There will be clear instructions for those new to ceilidh dancing, and food and drink will be available on the night. Funds raised will go to The Welcoming and St John’s Development. Work off that Christmas pudding and dance the night away! 7.30-11pm, St John’s Church Hall, Princes Street. Tickets £5, £3 to members of The Welcoming, available on the door or in advance from the church office (tel: 0131 229 7565 – open Monday to Friday) or The Welcoming Office, 20 Westfield Avenue (07944 186166). The Welcoming Association is a charity bringing together asylum seekers, refugees and people from Scottish and local minority ethnic communities; it aims to welcome newcomers, learn together and improve English language and literacy skills. The project supports new migrants in getting to know the local culture through outings, music, drama, visual arts, talks, and visits from service providers in law, employment, housing and education. For those who would like to get some pre-ceilidh dance experience, there will be an optional one-off ceilidh dance class 1-2.30pm on Wednesday 21st January at St John’s Church Hall.Welcoming-Ceilidh-Poster-FINAL-page-001

SUNDAY 25TH JANUARY 2015

spoon exterior

Word Power Books’ Radical Burns Nicht! Traditional Scottish meal (vegetarians catered for), whisky (optional!), with songs and poetry readings in the spirit of the Bard. 7pm, Spoon, 6a Nicolson Street. £10 per person: advance booking and payment essential – call into Word Power Books in West Nicolson Street, call them on 0131 662 9112 or email them at books@word-power.co.uk.

Catholic Church of the Sacred Heart Parish Burns Supper: with music, poetry and songs, haggis, neeps, tatties, home baking and tea/coffee. Other drinks available to buy. 3.30-5.45pm, Lauriston Jesuit Centre, 28 Lauriston Place. £6/£4 (school age children): proceeds will go to the organ fund.

Picture 050

Burns At The Close: an evening of traditional Scottish food, poetry and a guided tour of Mary King’s Close, meeting characters along the way. A one hour historical tour, including a nip of whisky or a glass of prosecco, readings of some of the Bard’s most famous pieces, and traditional Scottish delicacies with a twist. 6.15pm, The Real Mary King’s Close, 2 Warriston’s Close, High Street. £25 per person: advance booking required via website or by calling 0845 070 6244. Please make sure you inform the venue of any special dietary requirements.

summerhall

Summerhall’s Burns Supper: Summerhall welcomes you to the sound of bagpipes; your master of ceremonies will deliver a bite-sized history of the Bard, followed by recitals of some of his poems and songs – with an opportunity for you to participate in a recital yourself  (please contact the organiser if you wish to do so – details on website). Haggis, neeps, tatties and a nip of whisky, followed by a lively ceilidh with The Auld Alliance (Ceilidh Me Softly) Ceilidh Band, with dancing to suit all levels of ability. 6-10pm, Main Hall, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets £20/£18: book via website or call the Box Office on 0131 560 1581. Organised by Trotting Fox Events.

victoria bar burns night

Burns Night at the Victoria Bar: recite a poem or sing a verse and get a free dram of whisky! Victoria, 265 Leith Walk.

Burns at hemma

Burns Night with Viking Long Table! Haggis, neeps and tatties, dining in the Viking style, with a free dram if you recite a Burns’ poem for fellow guests. Please be seated by 7pm – the haggis will be addressed at 7.30. 7-11pm, Hemma, 73 Holyrood Road. If you would like to book ahead call Hemma on 0131 629 3327.

The Whiski Rooms Burns Night Suppers: a fun and traditional supper, with two sittings. Bagpipes, speeches, haggis (vegetarian version available) and whisky – plus cock-a-leekie and cranachan. 5pm or 8.30pm, Whiski Rooms, 4 North Bank Street. £35 per person, reservations (& £10 deposit) essential.

whiski rooms

TUESDAY 27TH JANUARY 2015

Cafe Ceilidh: Celebrating Robert Burns. Join Linten Adie and friends from the Scots Music Group for a free afternoon of songs and music in the Storytelling Court, celebrating the work of Robert Burns. 2-4pm, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. No booking required – just come along.

john knox house and the SSC




What’s On In Edinburgh this week

MONDAY 19TH JANUARY 2015

The Hive - toddler time, Cameo, Jan 2015

Toddler Time: The Hive (U). Screenings designed to introduce young children to the cinema., with 30-minutes shows for pre-school children and their parents/carers. This week join Buzzbee and his friends in their fun-packed adventures – whether they’re on a treasure hunt or camping under the stars, there’s always something new to learn and share. 11am, Cameo, Home Street. £3 per child, accompanying adults free if they join Toddler Time (free – ask at Box Office). Babies under 12 months free. Book online or call the Box Office on 0871 902 5723.

Building Echoes: Artist’s Talk & Screening. Building Echoes analyses the relationship between architecture and art. Alberto Condotta, one of the two exhibitors, will give a talk in the gallery, followed by a screening of Robert Cahen’s short film Juste Le Temps (1983); the film is centered on an encounter between a man and a woman on a train journey. Through the manipulation of imagery and the lack of spoken words, the film plays with the formulation of narrative and temporality. 4pm, Interview Room 11, 38 Castle Terrace. Interview Room 11 is a not-for-profit artist run gallery and project space, and part of the Forest+ arts complex.

Testament of Youth image

For Crying Out Loud: Testament of Youth (12A). These are screenings for parents/carers and their babies under 12 months; baby changing, bottle warming and buggy parking facilities available. 11am, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets cost £4.50/£3.50 per adult, maximum of two adults per child. (Note: no screening next week – next is A Night At The Opera on 2nd February).

Minecraft Building Club: come and try this new club – it just started last week! 3.30-4.30pm, Moredun Library, 92 Moredun Park Road. Also at same time on Wednesdays.

Peartree Quiz: know your physics from your psychics? Still in mourning for the loss of 15-to-1? Then you’ll love the Peartree quiz. All welcome! 9-11pm, Peartree, West Nicolson Street. £1 per team – get there early as tables fill up quickly.

Sofi’s Cult Movie Night: popular classics on the silver screen in the back room, with free popcorn! 8-10pm, Sofi’s, 65 Henderson Street.

area C coffee house

Radical Independence Campaign with Cat Boyd: RIC were very prominent during the referendum campaign, so if you want to find out what they are about, this is your chance. Cat Boyd is the co-founder of RIC. 7-9.30pm, Area C Coffee House, 239 Leith Walk. Organised by Common Weal Edinburgh North and Leith.

Leith Central Community Council: Everyone is welcome to attend these meetings and engage with what is happening in the local area. 7pm, Nelson Room, McDonald Road Library, 2-4 McDonald Road. Contact secretary.lccc@leithcentralcc.co.uk for more information.

Mission Antarctica - Adventure Film Festival January 2015

The 10th Annual Adventure Film Festival: Programme 1. The festival features eleven of the world’s most exciting action and adventure documentary films. From free climbing in Yosemite to mountain biking in Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor, and from canyoneering in Australia to surfing under the northern lights in Norway’s Arctic Circle, each of the three film programmes gives filmgoers a diverse and inspiring look at how modern day pioneers of exploration and adventure are pushing the boundaries of what we thought possible. Programme 1 consists of six short films: programme 2 will be shown on 26th January and Programme 3 on 2nd February 2015. 6pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Prices vary: bookings can be made online or by calling the Box Office on 0131 228 2688.

Stockbridge Church Toddler Group: for babies and toddlers. 10-11.30am, Stockbridge Parish Church, Saxe Coburg Street.

Linlithgow Film Society: The Railway Man (15) starring Nicole Kidman and Colin Firth. ‘A powerful and inspiring tale of heroism, humanity and the redeeming power of love’ . 7.30pm, Linlithgow Academy Theatre, Braehead Road. Non-members £4/£3, under 16s £2, payable on the door. For membership information, see website.

LGBT Spiritual Space: Maxwell Reay, NHS Community Mental Health Chaplain, offers a supportive space for people to discuss and develop ideas of spirituality and identity. For people of all faiths and no faith at all. This month there will be opportunities for individual conversations, and information regarding spiritual needs. 6.30-7.30pm (within weekly Drop-In, which runs 5.30-8pm), LGBT Health & Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. For more information contact the centre on 0131 523 1100 or email admin@lgbthealth.org.uk

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Adult Book Group: join the group for lively, friendly book chatter – no previous experience required! The group meets monthly to discuss a wide range of books – fiction and non-fiction, classic and contemporary, prizewinners and cult heroes; whatever you fancy! Currently reading Donna Tartt’s The Secret History. (Next month Eleanor Updale’s The Last Minute). 6-8pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. If you would like to join, just email your details to events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk

the last wild

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Children’s Book Group: if you are 8-11 years old with a love of books and biscuits, join the group to enjoy a friendly hour of fiction. Come and discover more books to treasure! Currently reading Piers Torady’s The Last Wild. 6-7pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. If you would like to join, just email your details to childrens.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk

The Hidden Generation: Contemporary Art in Awkward Places. Dr Andrew Patrizio looks at some of the more obscure and far-flung places that artists worked with as part of the 2014 GENERATION exhibition – from hidden collections and archives to Scotland’s country houses, and on to Fingal’s Cave and even the moon. 12.45-1.30pm, Hawthornden Lecture Theatre, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed.

generation exhibition poster 2014-15

TUESDAY 20TH JANUARY 2015

tiny tales image

Tiny Tales: Cosy Stories. Cosy in with storyteller Claire Hewitt and hear tales from the land of ice and snow, and how the sun was rescued by a brave little hare. With songs and lullabies to make a sleepy bear even sleepier! For children aged 1-3 years. 10am or 11.30am (40 minute sessions), Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £5 per child (please remember also to book a free adult ticket) and are available online here or by calling SSC on 0131 556 9579.

Scottish Society of Architect Artists: Art4X. An exhibition and sale of art works organised jointly by the SSAA and the University of Edinburgh, in support of the University’s Patrick Wild Centre. The Centre’s mission is to understand the neuronal basis of, and test new therapies for, autism, fragile X syndrome and intellectual disabilities by fostering collaborations between world class basic science and clinical research at the University of Edinburgh. A selection of guest artists and Ligne et Couleur (Ligne et Couleur is the name of the SSAA’s counterpoint associations in other European countries) colleagues from France, Germany, Italy and Poland who have exhibited with SSAA over the last three decades have been invited to contribute works for the exhibition and auction as part of Art4X. Auctioneers Lyon & Turnbull will take bids for these very special items during tonight’s private view. Private view (by invitation only) tonight 6-9pm, then 10am-4pm Wednesday 21st, Thursday 22nd and Friday 23rd January, 10am-12 noon Saturday 24th January, Sculpture Hall, Edinburgh College of Art, Lauriston Place.

mac's munchkins

Mac’s Munchkins: an hour of farm-themed storytelling, crafts, playgroup and songs. For children aged 2+. 10am or 3pm, Gorgie City Farm (meet at the red tractor), 51 Gorgie Road. £2 per child, payable on the day – no registration required.

I Love Hip Hop: for those who want to celebrate the hip hop classics – and just as importantly, the brand new! Live performances, guest DJs and more. 11pm-3am, The Bongo Club, 66 Cowgate. £4 . The Bongo Club is owned by local arts charity Out of the Blue. ‘Putting the sounds of the underground and imaginative aspirations before the mighty dollar’.

emma vertseeg - usher hall emerging artists

Emerging Artists Series: Emma Versteeg and Maryam Sherhan. Discover new talent from a range of great young professional musicians at the start of their careers. Singer Emma Versteeg and pianist Maryam Sherhan present an atmospheric journey of song through Scotland, including Clare Liddell’s song cycle Five Orkney Scenes, William Sweeney’s Luminate: From the Islands (commissioned by Live Music Now Scotland! in 2013 and originally supported by Luminate, Scotland’s creative ageing festival), and Robert Burns’ settings by Amy Beach. There will be an opportunity to meet the artists in the cafe bar at 11.45am, after the performance. 11am, Usher Hall, Lothian Road. Tickets £3, free for students and schools: book online, in person or by calling the Box Office on 0131 228 1155. Presented by the Usher Hall in partnership with Live Music Now Scotland! Next week: Cherrygrove (traditional band).

Odeon Silver Cinema: if you are over 55, you can enjoy films for only £3, with tea or coffee beforehand, at the Odeon’s special screenings on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Today: 11am – The Rewrite (12A), 2pm – What We Did On Our Holiday (12A). You can buy your tickets at the cinema (no extra charges), or online (50p booking fee + 21p transaction charge then apply). Odeon, 118 Lothian Road.

Digital Sentinel: Community News Cafe. digitalsentinel.net is the online community news site for Wester Hailes, now running a weekly community news cafe. Drop in for a cup of tea, chat about local stories and share local news, views, issues and events. 12 noon-1.30pm, WHALE Arts, 30 Westburn Grove. Free.

wee white blossom - book cover

Luath Press Presents Lesley Riddoch: Wee White Blossom, a post-indyref, poppadum-sized version of Blossom, updating it with a new chapter on Scotland’s Year of Living Dangerously. Lesley Riddoch shares her thoughts on the Smith Commission, the departure of Gordon Brown, the return of Alex Salmond and the latest developments in land  reform and local control, and considers the future of the SNP, the Radical Independence Campaign, Common Weal, Women for Independence and Scottish Labour in the aftermath of the referendum. ‘A plain-speaking, incisive call to restore equality and control to local communities and let Scotland flourish’. 6.30pm, New Empire Bingo Club, 50 Nicolson Street. Free tickets can be collected from Blackwell’s (South Bridge) front desk or reserved by calling 0131 622 8218 or emailing events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk

Pauline Detective: Pauline, a talented and gorgeous woman working for a criminal investigation’s newspaper, is going through a midlife crisis. Her younger sister Jeanne takes her to a famous hotel in the Italian Riviera – where Pauline believes a crime has been committed and starts to play detective. Dir: Marc Fitoussi. The film is in French with English subtitles. 6-7.30pm, Institut francais d’Ecosse, 13 Randolph Crescent. Free: no booking required. Also showing at 1pm on Wednesday 21st January 2015.

Lunchtime Concert: New Zealand Chamber Soloists. Amalia Hall (violin), James Tennant (cello) and Katherine Austin (piano) play Beethoven Piano Trio in D Major Op.70 No.1 ‘Ghost’ and John Psathas Island Songs. 1.10pm, Reid Concert Hall, University of Edinburgh, Bristo Square. Free.

representing muslims in Scotland & the North East - poster jan 2015

Muslim Literary Representations of Britain 1780-present. Dr Clare Chambers, University of York, is an expert in contemporary South Asian literature written in English and literary representations of British Muslims. She is currently completing her second book, Representations of Muslims in Britain, a monograph tracing the development of artistic depictions of UK-based Muslims from the 18th century to the present day. This event is part of a series of seminars Representing Muslims in Scotland and the North East, and will include a short talk by the speaker, a conversation with PhD students Sybil Adam or Peter Cherry, and a Q & A session. 7.15pm, Project Room, University of Edinburgh, George Square. These seminars are funded by the University of Edinburgh Alwaleed Centre, and this evening’s talk is held in conjunction with the Department of English Literature, who are providing wine after the talk. The next seminar will be at 5pm on 3rd February 2015, with award-winning Aberdeen-based writer Leila Aboulela. For more information about the series, click here.

Behold the Light of Nature: Ruskin on Turner 1853. Paul O’Keeffe, actor and art historian, recreates John Ruskin’s moving account of the life, achievements and death of JMW Turner, now re-edited and expanded to incorporate more of the lecture, and including visual aids. 12.45-1.30pm, Hawthornden Lecture Theatre, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed.

WEDNESDAY 21ST JANUARY 2015

minecraft club poster

Minecraft Building Club: come and try this new club – it just started last week! 3.30-4.30pm, Moredun Library, 92 Moredun Park Road. Also at same time on Mondays.

Sofi’s Clothes Swap: bring your unwanted clothes and swap them for something else. Upcycling at its most fun! No money involved – the more you bring, the more you swap. 7-10pm, Sofi’s, 65 Henderson Street.

Economics with Jim and Margaret Cuthbert: Jim and Margaret are both economists and statisticians. Jim was formerly Scottish Office Chief Statisician, Margaret lectured in econometrics at Glasgow University; both are now retired and pursue research interests. Area C Coffee House, 239 Leith Walk. Organised by Common Weal Edinburgh North and Leith.

Whale Snappers: a monthly session for anyone with an interest in taking photos, learning about portraits, and printing in a dark room. Lead by a friendly professional photographer, all levels of experience welcome. Try it out! 6-9pm, WHALE Arts, 30 Westburn Grove. £4 per session.

pauline detective film image

Pauline Detective: Pauline, a talented and gorgeous woman working for a criminal investigation’s newspaper, is going through a midlife crisis. Her younger sister Jeanne takes her to a famous hotel in the Italian Riviera – where Pauline believes a crime has been committed and starts to play detective. Dir: Marc Fitoussi. The film is in French with English subtitles. 1-2.30pm, Institut francais d’Ecosse, 13 Randolph Crescent. Free: no booking required.

Zoo Arts: sessions for young people aged 9-14 years who are interested in the visual arts. Activities are usually project-based and last around 2-4 weeks; they include creating temporary public art installations, with group exhibitions at the end of each term – and a party!. The group also goes on inspiring trips to places like the National Galleries and Museums. 4-5.30pm today and every Wednesday (breaks for school holidays), North Edinburgh Arts, 15a Pennywell Court. 50p per session, healthy snack provided. Pop in any Wednesday to see why everyone loves Zoo Arts so much!

Stockbridge and Inverleith Community Council: all members of the community are welcome to attend and participate – see website for minutes of past meetings and future agendas. 7pm, Stockbridge Parish Church, Saxe Coburg Street.

January Open Spoken Word and Music Night: featuring Irish Flyte Champion, comedian and poet Sean O’Dee. Please bring along a poem or a song. 7.30-10pm, The Red Room, Constitution Bar, Constitution Street. Free: please indicate your attendance on the event’s Facebook page. For more details contact rose.fraser@yahoo.co.uk.

will pickvance

 Lunchtime Concert: Piano Speak. Improvisations, requests and repartee with Will Pickvance. 12.15pm, St Giles Cathedral, High Street. Free.

Chatterbooks: if you like books and reading, come along to meet new friends,, chat about books and join in games and competitions. For children aged 8-12 years. 3.45-4.45pm, Fountainbridge Library, 137 Dundee Street. Free. For more information call in at the library or email Mohammed.boussabou@edinburgh.gov.uk

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Presents Sue Lieberman: After Genocide – How Ordinary Jews Face The Holocaust. Edinburgh author and psychotherapist Sue Lieberman explores the neglected world of ‘ordinary Jews’, those who have no direct family lineage to the Holocaust but are nevertheless deeply affected by its memory. Drawing on interviews with Jews across the age spectrum, After Genocide focuses on the complex psychological legacy for a community of such a devastating history; in addressing the question of what constitutes collective trauma, it will speak to many communities with comparable collective histories. 6.30-7.30pm Blackwell’s, South Bridge. Free tickets can be collected from Blackwell’s front desk or reserved by calling 0131 622 8218 or emailing events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk

Visually impaired tour and workshop – The Two Roberts: Robert Colquhoun and Robert MacBryde. A free descriptive tour and practical workshop for the visually impaired, focusing on The Two Roberts: Robert Colquhoun and Robert MacBryde. 10am-3.30pm, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art TWO, Belford Road. Free: to book a place please call 0131 624 6560.

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Presents Christopher Brookmyre: Dead Girl Walking. Celebrate the return of Jack Parblane in the much-awaited new book. Jack Parblane has lost everything; his journalism career, his marriage, his self-respect. A call for help from an old friend offers a chance for redemption – but only if he can find out what has happened to Heike Gunn, a famous, beautiful and talented woman who has simply vanished. From Berlin to Barcelona, form the streets of Milan to remote Scottish islands, Parblane must find out what happened before it’s too late. 7-9pm, The Caves, Niddry Street South. This event is ticketed but tickets are free, and can be collected from Blackwell’s (South Bridge) front desk or reserved by calling 0131 622 8218 or emailing events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk

Bi & Beyond Edinburgh: a fortnightly social gathering for people who identify as bisexual and non-monosexual. ‘With organised social activities and refreshments provided, whatever your label or lack of label we welcome you’. 7-9pm, LGBT Health & Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. For more information contact biandbeyondedinburgh@gmail.com

cavalier chronicles at colinton library jan 2015

 Crufts and Other Adventures: local author LJB Fraser will read from and talk about her book Cavalier Chronicles, which documents life through the eyes of Rufus, her King Charles spaniel. Possibly including an appearance by Rufus himself! 6.30-7.30pm, Colinton Library, 14 Thorburn Road. To book a place please call 0131 529 5603 or email colinton,library@edinburgh.gov.uk Free.

Scottish Society of Architect Artists: Art4X. An exhibition and sale of art works organised jointly by the SSAA and the University of Edinburgh, in support of the University’s Patrick Wild Centre. The Centre’s mission is to understand the neuronal basis of, and test new therapies for, autism, fragile X syndrome and intellectual disabilities by fostering collaborations between world class basic science and clinical research at the University of Edinburgh. A selection of guest artists and Ligne et Couleur (Ligne et Couleur is the name of the SSAA’s counterpoint associations in other European countries) colleagues from France, Germany, Italy and Poland who have exhibited with SSAA over the last three decades have been invited to contribute works for the exhibition and auction as part of Art4X. 10am-4pm today, Thursday 22nd and Friday 23rd January, 10am-12 noon Saturday 24th January, Sculpture Hall, Edinburgh College of Art, Lauriston Place.

Morningside Justice and Peace Group: Professor David Bell, University of Stirling, talks on Growth, deficit, austerity and other macroeconomic considerations in the run-up to May 2015. The Morningside Justice and Peace Group exists to promote informed opinion on matters of concern to the community at large: meetings are open to all and consist of a short talk followed by questions and discussion. 10.30-11.30am, The Open Door, 420 Morningside Road. £1 per person. For more information please contact Barbara Darcy at b.darcy20@gmail.com

the open door morningside

 THURSDAY 22ND JANUARY 2015

dundas st gallery

Works On Paper 2015: a selection of prints, drawings and watercolours from the storerooms of The Fine Art Society Edinburgh and London. Artists include Gerald Brockhurst, Sir David Wilkie, Robert Austin, Walter Geikie, James McBey, Mabel Royds and Charles Tunnicliffe. 10am-7pm today, 10am-6pm Friday and 11am-4pm Saturday, Dundas Street Gallery, 6a Dundas Street.

GENERATION By Night: the GENERATION By Night season of curated after-hours events at Modern One concludes this month with a night of pop-up talks, artist talks by Claire Barclay, Ciara Philips and Kate Davis (6pm), and a live set from WOLF (Kim Moore) at 7pm. Enjoy GENERATION after dark! 5-8pm, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art ONE, Belford Road. Free: no booking required.

ROC (Redeeming Our Communities) Conversation – Tollcross. A chance to talk about the community’s needs and how they can be met. ROC is a national charity with over 150 projects throughout the UK. It aims to bring about community transformation by creating strategic partnerships that open up opportunities for crime and disorder reduction and improved community cohesion. ROC brings together community groups, churches, the police, the fire service, local authorities and voluntary agencies, to encourage them to work together in positive partnerships for practical ‘on the ground’ change. 5.30-7.30pm, Central Halls, 9 West Tollcross. Free places can be booked via eventbrite. For more information, please contact dianemcwilliam@roc.uk.com

Drama @ WHALE: bring out your dramatic side and join the Whale’s Without A Cause group – they are looking for new people who would like to be involved in devising a show to be performed at the WHALE Arts End of Year Christmas party in December. No experience needed! 7-9pm, WHALE Arts, 30 Westburn Grove. Free.

Let’s Dance! Social dancing: get fit and have fun. Relaxed sessions with dance tuition from an expert: this term the group continues to learn ceilidh dancing – come and enjoy the Scottish whirls! 7-8.30pm, WHALE Arts, 30 Westburn Grove. £2 per session.

WHALE Street Arts: music, craft, street dance, poetry, beat box, art and more, on the streets of Wester Hailes every Thursday evening. This term’s theme is puppets – physical, shadow, hand and finger – leading up to the Puppet Animation Festival at Easter. Come and meet the Street Arts Team: 5-5.30pm – Harvesters Square, 5.30-6pm – Dumbeg, 6-6.30pm – Hailesland, 6.30-7pm – Walkers, 7-7.30pm – Westburn. For ages 8-18. For more information see Street Arts’ Facebook page here. For ages 7-16. Free.

TER St Cuthberts

Ecumenical Friends at St Cuthbert’s. Matthew Ross, General Secretary, Action of Churches Together in Scotland. 12.30-2pm, St Cuthbert’s Church Hall, 5 Lothian Road. All very welcome: tea and coffee provided, please bring your own packed lunch. £1.50 per person. These events are organised by Edinburgh City Centre Churches TOGETHER.

Mayfield Salisbury Thursday Club: this week Music with Margo and Iain Dunn. 2pm, Upper Hall, Mayfield Salisbury Church, 18 West Mayfield. All very welcome: 50p per person. For more information please contact Florence Smith on 0131 663 1234. Next week: Rev Sarah Kilbey on The Sounds of Silence: Coping with Deafness.

national library interior 1

Early Shetland Authors: Professor Penny Fielding explores the world of Margaret Chalmers and Dorothea Primrose Campbell, two early Shetland authors whose poetry had little success in their lifetime. Their case raises a number of questions: how can poets be ‘recovered’ with scant archival resources? What role does geographical distance play in literary history? And why should we read these authors in the first place? 6pm, National Library of Scotland, George IV Bridge. Book via website or call 0131 623 3734. Free.

Odeon Silver Cinema: if you are over 55, you can enjoy films for only £3, with tea or coffee beforehand, at the Odeon’s special screenings on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Today: 11am – What We Did On Our Holiday (12A)., 2pm – The Rewrite (12A). You can buy your tickets at the cinema (no extra charges), or online (50p booking fee + 21p transaction charge then apply). Odeon, 118 Lothian Road.

Scottish Society of Architect Artists: Art4X. An exhibition and sale of art works organised jointly by the SSAA and the University of Edinburgh, in support of the University’s Patrick Wild Centre. The Centre’s mission is to understand the neuronal basis of, and test new therapies for, autism, fragile X syndrome and intellectual disabilities by fostering collaborations between world class basic science and clinical research at the University of Edinburgh. A selection of guest artists and Ligne et Couleur (Ligne et Couleur is the name of the SSAA’s counterpoint associations in other European countries) colleagues from France, Germany, Italy and Poland who have exhibited with SSAA over the last three decades have been invited to contribute works for the exhibition and auction as part of Art4X. 10am-4pm today and Friday 23rd January, 10am-12 noon Saturday 24th January, Sculpture Hall, Edinburgh College of Art, Lauriston Place.

Live Music Now: Fraser Langton and Juliette Philogene. Fraser (clarinet) and Juliette (piano) have been wowing audiences with their performances since they started playing together in 2009. Together they will bring a varied programme of colourful and impressionistic music inspired by the National Gallery’s permanent collection, and in celebration of Burns’ Night they will play some popular Burns songs. 6-6.30pm, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed.

Fraser Langton & Juliette Philogene at NGS Jan 2015

FRIDAY 23RD JANUARY 2015

back to the future poster

Freeze Frame Film Club: an informal evening of flickering images drawn from classic old favourites. This week: Back to the Future (PG). Go early and have a 3 course movie-themed meal at the Drill Hall Arts Cafe before the show, or just go along for the film itself – free popcorn provided! ‘An evening of nostalgic drama, laughter and tears’. 6.30pm (film 8pm), Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street. Meals cost £15 and must be booked in advance – call the cafe on 0131 555 7100. Film costs £2.50 (children £2), which can be paid on the door (subject to availability), or in advance by calling 0131 555 7100 or emailing stephanie.haigh@outoftheblue.org.uk, or asking at the cafe. For more information see the club’s Facebook page.

cupcake

Fort Community Centre Bake Sale! Kids from some of the Centre’s clubs are holding a bake sale today – so come along, bring your money, and eat cake! 1pm, Fort Community Centre, 25 North Fort Street.

Bookbug: rhymes and songs for young children and their parents/carers. 10.30-11am, Oxgangs Library, Oxgangs Road North.

Storytime: find out where the magic story rug will take you this week! 10.30am today and every Friday, Piershill Library, 30 Piersfield Terrace.

rally & broad the apology shop poster

Rally and Broad: The Apology Shop. A tongue-in-cheek celebration of the apology in its many varieties: come hear the confessional, the reverential, the spittingly caustic and the wittily marvellous, featuring Francesca Beard, Bizerk, Emily Dodd, Chris Willats, and UK University Slam Champ Jess Smith. 7-10pm,The Bongo Club, 66 Cowgate. £5 on the door. The Bongo Club is owned by local arts charity Out of the Blue. ‘Putting the sounds of the underground and imaginative aspirations before the mighty dollar’.

Works On Paper 2015: a selection of prints, drawings and watercolours from the storerooms of The Fine Art Society Edinburgh and London. Artists include Gerald Brockhurst, Sir David Wilkie, Robert Austin, Walter Geikie, James McBey, Mabel Royds and Charles Tunnicliffe. 10am-7pm today, 11am-4pm Saturday, Dundas Street Gallery, 6a Dundas Street.

eco kidz logo

Eco Kidz: if you love creating and would like to learn some new skills too, try Eco Kidz. The group uses recycled materials to design and create new products before selling them at markets around Edinburgh: the Christmas pop-up stalls almost sold out! All profits go back into the project. For ages 8-12. 1.45-3.15pm today and every Friday, North Edinburgh Arts, 15a Pennywell Court. Free.

Scottish Society of Architect Artists: Art4X. An exhibition and sale of art works organised jointly by the SSAA and the University of Edinburgh, in support of the University’s Patrick Wild Centre. The Centre’s mission is to understand the neuronal basis of, and test new therapies for, autism, fragile X syndrome and intellectual disabilities by fostering collaborations between world class basic science and clinical research at the University of Edinburgh. A selection of guest artists and Ligne et Couleur (Ligne et Couleur is the name of the SSAA’s counterpoint associations in other European countries) colleagues from France, Germany, Italy and Poland who have exhibited with SSAA over the last three decades have been invited to contribute works for the exhibition and auction as part of Art4X. 10am-4pm today, 10am-12 noon tomorrow (Saturday 24th January), Sculpture Hall, Edinburgh College of Art, Lauriston Place.

St Bride’s Toddlers Group: a relaxed and friendly atmosphere for parents/carers and their children to get together, play and chat. Led by Solma Rahman. 9.30-11.30am today and every Friday until 20th March, St Bride’s Cafe, St Bride’s Centre, Orwell Terrace.

St Bride’s Children’s Club: have lots of fun and make new friends while playing games, learning arts and crafts and going on trips. For ages 5-9. Today and every Thursday until 26th March (no club 19th February) 4-5.30pm, St Bride’s Centre, Orwell Terrace. 50p per session.

de la guitarra - reid concert hall lunchtime conert jan 2015

Lunchtime Concert: de la guitarra. Gordon Ferries and Stephen Morrison specialise in 19th century guitar music on original instruments. Today they will perform works by Beethoven, Mozart, Carullli and Sor. 1.10pm, Reid Concert Hall, University of Edinburgh, Bristo Square. Free.

Malawi Coffee Morning: with Fairtrade tea and coffee and Fairtrade goods for sale. Profits go to the church’s Malawi project. All very welcome! 10.30am-12 noon today and every Friday, Stockbridge Parish Church, Saxe Coburg Street.

Girl Fridays: a club for girls in P7 to S4. 3-4.30pm, Pilmeny Youth Centre, 44 Buchanan Street. For more information contact Mo Airnes on 0131 553 2559 or email moairnes@btconnect.com

Mika Hannula - ECA Friday lecture series Jan 2015

Edinburgh College of Art Friday Lecture Series: Mika Hannula. Based at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden, Mika is the former Director of the Academy of Fine Arts in Helsinki, and Chair of KUNO, the Nordic network of art academies. 11.30am, Edinburgh College of Art, Lauriston Place. Free and open to all.

Heriot Watt University: Lunchtime Music Hour. This week: The Rotary Club Young Musician Competition. 12.30-1.30pm, Zero Degrees, Students Union, Heriot Watt University Edinburgh Campus, EH14 4AS.

Human Blues: Anna Glantz and Tam Hare. An exhibition exploring the connections between the self, collective identity and modern culture, and the ‘weird, and not so wonderful’ feelings that arise when these disconnect. Anna is a Swedish-born painter and printmaker, Tom is a visual artist and writer whose work is principally photographic and camera-centric. Open preview tonight 6-9pm, then 10am-6pm Monday to Friday, 11am-5pm Saturdays and Sundays, until 3rd February 2015, Gallery 2, St Margaret’s House, 151 London Road.larger_lgbt_logo

LGBT Women’s Wellbeing Group: Colour My Life. An inclusive group offering a chance to meet other LGBT women in a relaxed environment. Chat, information and activities promoting health and wellbeing. The group is open to all LGBT women, and welcomes transgender people who primarily identify as women. This month banish the winter blues by contributing to a women’s wellbeing creative space, where women can come together to share music, get in touch with their artistic side and have the opportunity to contribute words of solidarity to Amnesty International’s Write for Rights letter writing campaign.  2-4.30pm, LGBT Health & Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. To stay up to date with the group contact alison@lgbthealth.org.uk to be added to the email reminder list.

Portrait Gallery

Gallery Social – Beauty By Design: Fashioning the Renaissance. A relaxed and informal guided tour with refreshments for anyone affected by dementia and their friends, relatives and supporters. 10.30am-12 noon, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free: to book a place please call 0131 624 6560.

LGBT Film Nights: see LGBT themed and mainstream films in a friendly, sociable setting. Vote by email, and at the events, for film choices each month. You are welcome just to turn up on the night, but please be aware that the film will already have been chosen. 6.30-9.30pm, LGBT Health & Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. For more information, contact the centre on 0131 523 1100 or email admin@lgbthealth.org.uk

Son et Lumiere: two hours of sound and silence, of light and darkness. Space and time to sit, to think, to wander, to be. 6-8pm, St Giles Cathedral, High Street. Tickets £3 at the door.

stuart macbride the missing and the dead book cover

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Presents Stuart MacBride The Missing and The Dead: Acting Detective Inspector Logan McRae returns in this new novel by the bestselling crime writer.’One mistake can cost you everything. When you catch a twisted killer there should be a reward, right?’ What McRae gets is a ‘development opportunity’ in the depths of rural Aberdeenshire…then a little girl’s body washes up outside the sleepy town of Banff, kicking of a massive manhunt….there are dangerous predators lurking in the wilds of Aberdeenshire, and not everyone’s going to get out of this alive. 6.30-8pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. This event is ticketed, but tickets are free and can be collected from Blackwell’s front desk or reserved by calling 0131 622 8218 or emailing events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk Read The Edinburgh Reporter’s article about Stuart MacBride’s 2014 Edinburgh Book Festival appearance here.

An Evening with Burns and Gow: Robert Burns and Niel Gow are responsible for some of the greatest words and music that Scotland has ever produced. This performance sees Euan Drysdale (vocals/guitar/piano) and Alistair Savage (fiddle) celebrate the works of Burns and Gow in a joyous evening of traditional fiddle music, alongside some new folk/blues interpretations of Burns’ poetry in song. 7.30-9.30pm, Netherbow Theatre, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £10/£8 and can be purchased online here or by calling 0131 556 9579.

BurnsAndGow evening at SSC

SATURDAY 24TH JANUARY 2015

victoria bar singles night Jan 2015

Victoria Bar Singles Night! 8pm,Victoria, 265 Leith Walk

Polish Rhymetime: 11am today and every second Saturday, Piershill Library, 30 Piersfield Terrace. All very welcome to come and join in the fun.

GENERATION Tours at Modern One: free, discussion-led tours of the exhibition, focusing on key themes and artists. 11-11.45am or 1-1.45pm, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art ONE, Belford Road. Free: no booking required.

Tiger Tales: stories and crafts for children aged 4-8 years. 3-4pm, Fountainbridge Library, 137 Dundee Street. Free.

edinburgh  league of comics image

Edinburgh League of Comics Manga Workshops: learn how to create your own characters, script a story and take home your very own comic book! For ages 10+. 2-4pm, Kirkliston Library, 16 Station Road. To book your place drop into the library and speak to Nicola, or call her on 0131 529 5510/email kirkliston.library@edinburgh.gov.uk If you can’t make it today, there will be another workshop on 31st January 2015.

ABJAD: an exhibition by four artists, Jane Bustin, Kevin Harman, Paul Keir and Jeff McMillan ‘who, in their sometimes sideways approach to abstraction, balance conceptual concerns with an intuitive touch’. 10am-6pm Monday to Saturday until 21st March 2015, Ingelby Gallery, 15 Calton Road.

Macastory: The Two Rabbies. A fun-filled show with not one but two Rabbie Burns, each claiming to be the real McCoy! The audience must decide who is telling the truth as the Rabbies tell outrageous tall tales of their amazing adventures, and perform songs and verses from the Bard himself. 12 noon, 2pm or 3pm (40 minute sessions), Hawthornden Court,  Level 1, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Free: just drop in. Also at same times on Sunday 25th January 2015.

steinway at Edinburgh Society of Musicians

Edinburgh Society of Musicians: Dream Team concert. Kirsteen Davidson Kelly plays new piano compositions by Vroni Holzmann, inspired by the landscape of the Alps, Swedish forests and seascapes. 7.30pm, Edinburgh Society of Musicians, 3 Belford Road. Admission free.

Les Mis film image

Balerno Village Screen: Les Miserables (12). Set against the backdrop of 19th century France, Les Miserables tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption – a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. This screening will be a #pitchfever fundraiser for a 2G pitch at Balerno School, and coincides with the production of Les Miserables that Balerno High School pupils are currently preparing: some of them will be along to perform before the screening. 12.30-3pm (doors open at 12 noon), St Joseph’s Hall, Balerno, EH14 7TZ. Tickets are free, and can be booked via eventbrite or collected from The Mill Cafe or Balerno Post Office. If you can’t get a ticket, you are welcome to turn up and will be given a seat if there are no-shows: if you have a ticket and can’t make it, please cancel so that someone else can come along. Balerno Village Screen is a community cinema funded by donations.

Works On Paper 2015: a selection of prints, drawings and watercolours from the storerooms of The Fine Art Society Edinburgh and London. Artists include Gerald Brockhurst, Sir David Wilkie, Robert Austin, Walter Geikie, James McBey, Mabel Royds and Charles Tunnicliffe. 11am-4pm (closes today), Dundas Street Gallery, 6a Dundas Street.

it's in the bag image

 It’s In The Bag: rhymes, drama, creative games and puppets, with lots of well-loved Scottish songs throughout. (1) Sam & Rosie’s Tartan Tea Party – for ages 0-2 years, 2.15pm (10am show already sold out), (2) Sam & Rosie’s Highland Adventure: The Mystery of the Lost Haggis – for ages 3-6 years, 11.15am or 1pm, Storytelling Court, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £6 per child and can be purchased online here or by calling 0131 556 9579. Please remember to book a free adult ticket too.

Burns for Beginners: Robert Burns’ keys poems and songs are performed to a cracking live music accompaniment, along with discussion, context and English subtitles. A sell-out at TradFest Edinburgh 2014 and Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2014 ‘this is the show about Burns that Burns would want to see!’ For ages 12+. 7.30pm, Netherbow Centre, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £8/£4 and can be booked online here or by calling SSC on 0131 556 9579.

St Bride’s Family Cinema – see your favourite film for free! Adventure, excitement, fun and laughs – they’re all here. All welcome: children under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult. Juice and choc ices available in the interval for 50p each. This week: The Lego Movie (U), next week: Dumbo (U). 10.30am-12.30pm (includes interval), St Bride’s Centre, Orwell Terrace.

la galette des rois at French institute Jan 2015

 Family Saturdays at the French Institute: La Galette des Rois. The first event in a new series of ‘rendez-vous’  in French; an opportunity for children aged 3 to 10 years to discover a popular piece of French culture. This time, the tales, songs and crafts are all about ‘la Galette des Rois’ – and is there anything better than finishing this event with a delicious Galette tasting? 12 noon-2pm, Institut francais d’Ecosse, 13 Randolph Crescent. Price per child £5/members £3. No booking required. Please note: parents must stay with their children.

Winter Guided Walk: join a Garden Guide for a leisurely afternoon walk round the Garden. Discover stunning seasonal highlights and learn about the history of the Garden and its plants. For ages 14+. 2pm, John Hope Gateway Reception, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. £5 per person: no advance booking necessary. Also at same time on Sunday 25th January 2015.

Traditional Scottish Music at Morningside Library: following a successful performance last year, Derek, John and Lindsay return for a morning of traditional Scottish music. 11.30am-12.30pm, Morningside Library, 184 Morningside Road. No need to book – just turn up.

Scottish Society of Architect Artists: Art4X. An exhibition and sale of art works organised jointly by the SSAA and the University of Edinburgh, in support of the University’s Patrick Wild Centre. The Centre’s mission is to understand the neuronal basis of, and test new therapies for, autism, fragile X syndrome and intellectual disabilities by fostering collaborations between world class basic science and clinical research at the University of Edinburgh. A selection of guest artists and Ligne et Couleur (Ligne et Couleur is the name of the SSAA’s counterpoint associations in other European countries) colleagues from France, Germany, Italy and Poland who have exhibited with SSAA over the last three decades have been invited to contribute works for the exhibition and auction as part of Art4X. 10am-12 noon, Sculpture Hall, Edinburgh College of Art, Lauriston Place.

Israel-Palestine Prayer Vigil: Polwarth will hold this month’s prayer vigil for peace between Israel and Palestine. Vigils have been held all over the country since troubles flared in Gaza last summer; they are organised jointly by the Church of Scotland’s World Mission Council, Christian Aid and other supporting agencies. The morning will include an overview of Church of Scotland’s and Christian Aid’s work in the area and a talk about the work of the YWCA Women and the Wall. 10am-12 noon, Polwarth Parish Church, Polwarth Terrace. All welcome.

Christian-Aid

SUNDAY 25TH JANUARY 2015

TER sign at Botanics

Winter Guided Walk: join a Garden Guide for a leisurely afternoon walk round the Garden. Discover stunning seasonal highlights and learn about the history of the Garden and its plants. For ages 14+. 2pm, John Hope Gateway Reception, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. £5 per person: no advance booking necessary.

Storytelling: Happy Birthday Rabbie! Come and celebrate Burns Day with Scottish song, story and poetry. Enjoy a wee bit of the Bard’s work, learn some Scots language and listen to some Scottish traditional tales. For ages 7+. 2pm, 2.45pm or 3.30pm (30 minute sessions), Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free: no booking required.

penguins of Madagascar - Filmhouse Junior Jan 2015

 Filmhouse Junior: Penguins of Madagascar (U). 11am, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets cost £4 per person, big or small, and can be booked online or by calling the Box Office on 0131 228 2688. Next week: Into The Woods.

Sofi’s Nocturnes: a weekly open stage hosted by Matt Norris and Arno Blok. Unplugged and intimate: all acts welcome (music, spoken word, comedy, anything else you’d like to do). A free drink for every performer. 8-10pm, Sofi’s, 65 Henderson Street.

Macastory - the Twa Rabbies - NMS January 2015

 Macastory: The Two Rabbies. A fun-filled show with not one but two Rabbie Burns, each claiming to be the real McCoy! The audience must decide who is telling the truth as the Rabbies tell outrageous tall tales of their amazing adventures, and perform songs and verses from the Bard himself. 12 noon, 2pm or 3pm (40 minute sessions), Hawthornden Court,  Level 1, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Free: just drop in.

Rock and Roll Ping Pong with DJ Ding and DJ Dong; a free monthly social night, with balls on! Free play, silly ping pong games, music from every genre to play along to, and an optional, strictly amateur, tournament (£1 entry, winner takes all). 7-11pm, The Bongo Club, 66 Cowgate. The Bongo Club is owned by local arts charity Out of the Blue. ‘Putting the sounds of the underground and imaginative aspirations before the mighty dollar’.

lgbt_entrance

Me & T Monthly: a supportive space for people who have friends, family or partners who are transgender or exploring their gender. An opportunity to meet other people who may have similar experiences, questions or concerns. 2-4pm, LGBT Health & Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. For more information contact me.and.t.edinburgh@gmail.com.

St Giles at Six: music students from Napier University. Solo performances from final year music students. 6pm, St Giles Cathedral, High Street. Free: retiring collection.

TER St Giles




On DVD/Blu-Ray: Boyhood (Richard Linklater, 2014)

Every decade or so, there comes a film that can be considered truly quintessential viewing. Whilst we’re treated to great cinema on a much more frequent basis, there are very few features that are as fulfilling or as wholesome as Boyhood is. A story of progression and familial bonds, it’s an ensemble piece that blurs the usually stringent lines between director and performers. Richard Linklater is at the helm here; a man that over his career and especially in the last decade has cemented himself as the industry’s most human director, finding himself in touch with every character in his masterpieces. Boyhood is no different; both exceptionally brave in its 12 year conception yet totally humble, it’s as sincere as cinema gets.

The life of a boy as he grows up from a young child to a teenager as seen through the eyes of himself and those around him.

Boyhood is weaved with quiet ambition, rife with great performers and never grows tiresome. Both Patricia Arquette and Ethan Hawke as Mason’s parents have gained Oscar nominations (Arquette has already won the Golden Globe) for their performances, and rightly so. Although the focus lies on the children, it’s through the focused eyes of the adults that their personalities can be seen in full bloom. Over the 12 years, Arquette’s character develops from a headstrong, short tempered young mother to a woman watching her children fall from her grip. Her role culminates in a heartbreaking scene that alone justifies her countless nominations.

Ethan Hawke’s dad role has a charm and charisma that never leaves him; it simply matures as he crows feet deepen with his voice. Its in his scenes that his relationship with the children work best. Both newcomers Ellar Coltrane and Lorelei Linklater (Richard’s daughter), work best around Hawke. Their gawky child actor attempts at first feel raw if a little unrefined, and as a result has most likely left them trailing in the awards season consideration.

Needless to say, the purity of Boyhood shows that this wasn’t a film made to be laden with accolades. Like any other indie drama, Boyhood had a festival roll out and a sleepy summer release. It just so happened that, when it was important, the Academy did what they rarely do: they remembered. Its short term longevity has worked wonders for it so far, but its warm, human heart will let it be remembered for decades to come.

Boyhood is released by Universal on DVD/Blu-Ray January 19th




Storytelling Event at Gambado

Gambado and ball machine-1

Gambado, Edinburgh’s biggest indoor soft play and party centre at Fountain Park will be celebrating National Storytelling Week, (31st January – 7th February) with a one-day exclusive storytelling event for under fives on Friday, 30 January 2015.

The fun, creative and exciting event, taking place on the eve of National Storytelling Week, which is aimed at increasing public awareness of the art, practice and value of storytelling, will include stories being read by professional storyteller and musician, David Hood. 

A special ‘Bear Hunt’ and arts and crafts workshops will also take place, all free upon entry. For an additional fee, kids will also have the chance to build their own bear and join a teddy bear’s picnic or pancake brunch.

Kids are also encouraged to dress up as their favourite story character and bring along a book on the day and take part in the centre’s first Book Swap Shop where books can be swapped for free to give kids the chance to take away and enjoy others kids favourite books.   

Chris Hairs, General Manager at Gambado Fountain Park, said: “We are really looking forward to our special one-day storytelling event to highlight not only the importance of taking time to read with your children but also to show parents how much fun it can be.

“The day will be action-packed with everything from storytelling to arts and crafts and is guaranteed to be a great event for both kids and parents who come along.”

Gambado Fountain Park is Edinburgh’s biggest soft play centre for children aged from 0 – 12 years old, with everything from an impressive 31-seater carousel and three-tier frame and slides to a climbing wall and gated sensory area for toddlers.

It is open from 9.30am till 6pm Monday to Thursday, 9.30am to 6.30pm, Friday and Saturday and 9.30am to 6pm on Sunday’s.

Check out the website, www.gambado.co.uk or follow Gambado Edinburgh’s Facebook page or twitter to get up to date information about this one-day event.




Rates for Stamp Duty replacement to be considered this week at Holyrood

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Land and Buildings Transaction Tax rates will be considered in budget.

Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Finance John Swinney will consider revised residential tax rates for the Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) – which will replace UK Stamp Duty Land Tax from April 2015, it was confirmed today.

Mr Swinney will review the rates as part of the Scottish Budget Bill process which will start with Stage One on Wednesday 21 January.

Existing Scottish Government plans would remove tax from 5,000 purchases between £125,000 and £135,000 and ensure that over 80% of house purchasers in Scotland are better off, or no worse off, than under the new UK regime.

However, following a one year only agreement with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury setting the adjustment to Scotland’s block grant that will take place as a result of the Scottish Government taking responsibility for raising a small amount of revenues at £494m, Mr Swinney has now indicated that he will review the tax rates to consider whether they could benefit even more Scottish house purchasers.

Deputy First Minister and Finance Secretary John Swinney said:

“At the time of the UK Chancellor’s Autumn statement I said his imitation of my Scottish tax plans was the sincerest form of flattery. On the first occasion I’ve had to design a tax system for Scotland, the UK Government copied it instantaneously and applied it across the UK.

“At the time of my proposals – designed for the Scottish market not London house prices – 90% of homebuyers would have been better or no worse off, and 5,000 homes would be taken out of taxation all together, helping those at the lower end of the market.

“The Chancellor’s decision to introduce a new Stamp Duty system overnight, without warning and consultation, means that while 80% of homeowners continue to pay less tax or no tax at all under the Scottish system we now have the opportunity to review the rates and ensure they are right for Scotland.

“I will announce my conclusions to Parliament on Wednesday.”




Sunday in Edinburgh – What’s On Today

RSPB bluetit

RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch! Every year half a million people take part in the Birdwatch weekend; you can carry out your contribution to this survey of bird life anywhere in the UK – you don’t need to have your own garden (see event website here), and if you would like to participate in the Botanics, you can meet the RSPB there today: 12.30-3.30pm, Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, 20a Inverleith Row.

Hearing Impaired Tour – Beauty by Design: Fashioning the Renaissance. A free tour of the exhibition, with portable loops, led by Tessa Asquith-Lamb. 11am-12 noon, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free: to book a place please call 0131 624 6560.

Our Dynamic Earth – FREE entry!  To celebrate its collaboration with the Heritage Lottery Fund, Dynamic Earth is offering free entry today from 10am. It will not be possible to pre-book tickets, and entrance may have to be limited to match the capacity of the building. 10am-4pm (last entry – though this may have to be brought forward if demand is high), Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Road. For more information call o131 550 7800 or click here.

tinkerbell and the legend of the neverbeast

Filmhouse Junior: Tinkerbell and the Legend of the NeverBeast (U). A new animation, in which animal fairy Fawn befriends a huge and mysterious character known as the NeverBeast, but the elite Scout Fairies set out to capture the monster, fearing he will destroy their home. Fawn must trust her heart and rally the girls to save the NeverBeast. 11am, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets £4: book online or call the Box Office on 0131 228 2688.

Winter Guided Walk: join a Garden Guide for a leisurely afternoon walk around the Garden. Discover stunning seasonal highlights and learn about the history of the Garden and its plants. For ages 14+. 2pm, John Hope Gateway reception, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, 20a Inverleith Row. £5 per person, no advance booking required.

Bags of Art: cool and creative fun for children aged 4-12 years, with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. 2-4pm, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art ONE, Belford Road. Free: no booking required. Supported by the Friends of NGS.

abercorn sports club logo

Sunday Bunch Squash Night: a group of squash enthusiasts who meet regularly to play squash and racketball – just drop in and play squash with others on your level. 6.45-8pm, Abercorn Sports Club, Abercorn Crescent. £5 per person: no membership fees. All levels welcome.

talking trees at rbge

Talking Trees: let the RBGE’s volunteer storytellers grow your imagination with tall tales from around the world. You can also visit the Little Free Library beside the Glasshouses and the Dell area in the John Hope Gateway. 2-2.45pm, John Hope Gateway reception, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, 20a Inverleith Row. Free: no booking required.

Scandinavian Weekend at Joseph Pearce’s: Scandi food and music all weekend, plus tonight from 7pm, tunes in Swedish and English from Christer Petterssonz Dans Band.  Joseph Pearce’s, 23 Elm Row.

syrian refugee image

 

Annual World Day for Migrants and Refugees: a celebratory Mass will be led by Archbishop Leo Cushley. 3pm, St Mary’s RC Cathedral, York Place. All welcome: if you would like to attend the small reception afterwards, please email Miriam.mchardy@staned.org.uk.

St Giles’ At Six: The Kevock Choir. The programme will include Chilcott A Little Jazz Mass, Elgar Ave Verum, Bruckner Locus Iste arr. Burns, The Lord’s My Shepherd and Scottish Song, with light music arrangements The Wild Mountain Thyme, O Gin I were, Red Red Rose, Fields of Gold and Anthem (from Chess). Director: Graham Lovett. 6pm, St Giles’ Cathedral, High Street. Free: retiring collection.

TER St Giles




Five things you need to know today

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Winter Warmer

Welcome to Scotland

Trusted Traders

Life After Stroke Awards

Sunday Night Laugh In

Today the rangers in Holyrood Park would like  you to look out your walking boots and go on a guided walk with them between 1:00pm and 3:00pm.

For more information about this free event Click here or T 0131 652 8150

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The Scottish Government has commissioned new posters which will feature at airports and online to welcome visitors to Scotland this year.

Read more here.

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The Trusted Trader Scheme is being set up by the City of Edinburgh Council in response to demand for a “go to” list of reputable businesses when people need work or repairs carried out.

There is potential for the scheme to reach more than 225,000 households and members will be able to use the Trusted Trader Scheme logo on materials and vehicles.

It will be open to all trades – with the exception of the food industry – and any businesses interested in being included in the scheme are being asked to register their interest here(external link).

Membership of the scheme, which is set to start in summer 2015 once a list has been established, will cost £200 (plus VAT) each per year. Each applicant will be checked and vetted by the Council’s Trading Standards team to ensure compatibility with the principles of the scheme.

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It is well known that news journalist Andrew Marr suffered a stroke from which he has made a very good recovery. Here he is supporting the Life after Stroke Awards:

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Tonight at the Stand they are putting on the Sunday Night laugh in. Anything to divert your attention from the fact that tomorrow is yet again a Monday. Tickets £6 and concessions.

More details here.  

If you are reading this article on paper and would like to visit the website then scan the QR code above with a smartphone or tablet and you will be taken straight there.



Welcome to Scotland

Point of Entry - Pipers - Landscape

Two of Scotland’s best features – its people and its scenery – will be used to showcase Scotland to the record number of travellers expected to arrive at Scottish airports in 2015.

Imagery depicting some of the people, places and natural resources that contribute to Scotland standing on the world stage will be used in ten striking posters. Destined for Scotland’s six main airports the artwork will be in place by the end of this month.

Scottish Ballet, the Red Hot Chilli Pipers and Arbroath Smokie producer Iain R. Spink are amongst those featured. The locations used stretch across Scotland, from the historic Abbotsford House in the Borders, Aikengall Community Wind Farm in East Lothian to bustling Aberdeen Harbour.

The updated point of entry creative theme was chosen to demonstrate Scotland’s strengths to international arrivals. The images will be in place until January next year.

Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Europe and External Affairs, Fiona Hyslop said, “This is about creating the right first impression for visitors to Scotland. We are blessed with beautiful scenery and wonderful people with a flair for artistic expression, creativity and innovation. These images capture Scotland’s strengths as a modern and dynamic nation.”

Last year nearly 24 million visitors passed through Scottish airports. This is expected to rise again in 2015 to close to 25 million, building on the momentum of 2014 when Scotland hosted Homecoming, the Ryder Cup and Commonwealth Games.

Commissioned by the Scottish Government, the images will also be used online and in social media, to engage an international audience and promote Scotland as a great place to live, work, study, visit and do business.

The appetite for news from Scotland amongst Scottish diaspora and Scots enthusiasts around the globe continues to grow. More people than ever are following official social accounts with over 110,000 follows and likes, primarily from the USA.

In 2014, the country’s international portal www.Scotland.org attracted over 1.6 million visits, an increase of over 8% from the previous year. The US, Canada and Australia are the most popular visitors to the site outside of the UK.

Dr Cindy Sughrue OBE, Scottish Ballet CEO, said. “Scottish Ballet is delighted to be involved in this Scottish Government marketing campaign which is intended to raise the profile of arts and culture to people visiting Scotland. As Scotland’s national dance company, we tour nationally and internationally, flying the flag for Scottish arts at home and abroad and ensuring we are known worldwide as a vibrant and creative country.”




Alan Stubbs delighted with team’s performance

Alan Stubbs

Hibs’ Head Coach Alan Stubbs was delighted with his players’ performance in yesterday’s 5-0 win against Cowdenbeath at Easter Road.

Stubbs decided to keep faith with the starting XI who threw away a 3-1 lead against Falkirk last weekend although he swapped full backs with Lewis Stevenson moving to right back and Callum Booth returning to his preferred left back spot.

His faith was more than justified as Hibs never looked in any danger against Jimmy Nichol’s team and the win moved the Easter Road side three points clear of Queen of the South whom they meet at Palmerston Park next week.

After the game Stubbs told Hibs TV: “I’m delighted with everything that happened – the five different goalscorers, a clean sheet and a win – it was a good day all-round.

“We’ve totally controlled the game for long periods, moved the ball around well and we were patient in the second half before taking the chances to make it 5-0.

“Next Saturday is a massive game for us and we will prepare correctly for Queen of the South.

“We know it will be a tough game, but one that we will be ready for.”




All aboard for Disability Access Day

FREE PIC- Tourism Disability Access Day Launch 03

Euan MacDonald co-founder of online disability access guide “Euan’s Guide” launched the first ever Disability Access Day aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia moored in Edinburgh’s Leith Docks beside the Ocean Terminal shopping centre, a tourism initiative from VisitScotland.

With him today were his sister and Euan’s Guide co-founder Kiki MacDonald with volunteers and service users of Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, Guide Dogs Scotland and Canine Partners and their assistance dogs.

Euan was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2003. 

“Euan’s Guide” can be found on:  www.euansguide.com

FREE PIC- Tourism Disability Access Day Launch 02 FREE PIC- Tourism Disability Access Day Launch

Colin Hattersley Photography – colinhattersley@btinternet.comwww.colinhattersley.com – 07974 957 388

 




Hibernian 5-0 Cowdenbeath

Paul.Hanlon.2

Hibs produced a five star performance to move three points clear of Queen of the South in third place in the Championship after a comfortable 5-0 win over Cowdenbeath at a freezing cold Easter Road this afternoon.

Head Coach Alan Stubbs kept faith with the same staring XI that shared the points with Falkirk last Saturday, although Lewis Stevenson moved to right back and Callum Booth returned to his more familiar left back slot.

New signing Franck Dja Djedje missed the game due to a slight hamstring strain but defender Jordon Forster was listed amongst the substitutes.

Hibs started brightly and opened the scoring in the 8th minute when Scott Allan’s corner found Liam Craig at the back post. The skipper headed the ball back across goal and Paul Hanlon (pictured) volleyed home from close range.

Jason Cummings then continued his impressive run of form after Dylan McGeouch did well to find Allan who crossed for him to head home his sixth goal in his last five games.

The teenager could have added to his tally but was twice denied by fine saves from Thomson in the Cowdenbeath goal.

After the break, Hibs continued to dominate possession and never looked in any danger.

With 15 minutes remaining Scott Robertson wrapped the points up after beating Cowdenbeath defender Thomas O’Brien before curling the ball into the far corner of the net.

Substitute Sam Stanton who had replaced Allan, won possession and played a one-two with Stevenson before finding Booth who hammered the ball into the net.

Lewis Stevenson added a fifth with the last kick of the game.

With the Rangers game abandoned last night, Hibs win takes then to five points behind the Ibrox club and three points in front of fourth placed Queen of the South who came from behind to snatch a draw against Falkirk.

Hibs face Queen of the South at Palmerston Park next Saturday.

Hibernian: Oxley, Booth, Hanlon, Fontaine, Robertson, Craig, Stevenson, McGeouch (Forster 77’), S. Allan (Stanton 64‘), Boyle (Handling 78’), Cummings. Substitutes not used: Perntreou, Heffernan, L. Allan, Martin.

Cowdenbeath: Thomson, O’Brien, Robertson, Higgins, Wedderburn, Oyenuga, Milne, Marshall, Miller, Hughes (Buchanan 70’), Halsman. Substitutes not used: Sneddon, Adamson, Armstrong, Kane, Brownlie, Johnston.

Referee: Andrew Dallas.

Attendance: 8,240.

Photo by John Preece




Saturday in Edinburgh – What’s On Today

morningside united church kids' club poster

Morningside United Kids’ Club: two hours of stories, games and crafts. 10am-12 noon today and every Saturday, Morningside United Church, 15 Chamberlain Road. £3 per child. All welcome!

Winter Guided Walk: join a Garden Guide for a leisurely afternoon walk around the Garden. Discover stunning seasonal highlights and learn about the history of the Garden and its plants. For ages 14+. 2pm, John Hope Gateway reception, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, 20a Inverleith Row. £5 per person, no advance booking required. Also at same time on Sunday 18th January 2015.

 

permaculture

Introduction to Permaculture: a two-day introductory taster course taught by James Chapman of social enterprise NonStuff Industries. The course will provide an opportunity to learn about the principles of permaculture – healthy and sustainable ways to provide for our needs for food, energy, shelter and community, and will be lively and thought-provoking, with outdoor and indoor activities. 9.30am-5pm each day, Hermitage Market Garden, Cafe and Golf Course, 11 Braids Hill Drive. Fees are on a sliding scale from £40 to £120 depending on income and resources, and you are invited to bring lunch to share. For more information and to book contact Tracey Hay on 07561 883097 or James Chapman on 07790 265883, or email courses@jameschapman.org.uk. The Hermitage is a social venture developed by Autism Ventures Scotland.

Our Dynamic Earth – FREE entry!  To celebrate its collaboration with the Heritage Lottery Fund, Dynamic earth is offering free entry today and tomorrow from 10am. It will not be possible to pre-book tickets for these days, and entrance may have to be limited to match the capacity of the building. 10am-4pm (last entry – though this may have to be brought forward if demand is high), Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Road. For more information call o131 550 7800 or click here. Also at same times on Sunday 18th January 2015.

hope conference 2015 poster

HOPE Conference of Knowledge and Inspiration: Quran Explained. An opportunity for non-Muslims to find out more about Islam; general misconceptions and sensitive and controversial topics will be specifically addressed by eminent Muslim speakers. Talks, Q & A sessions, discussions, exhibitions, stalls, Arabic calligraphy artist, food stalls, networking. Main event: Islam, Not What You Think: 9.30am-4.30pm, (registration begins at 9am) Murrayfield Stadium, EH12 5PJ. Free for non-Muslims. This event will be followed by an evening dinner with speeches, for which tickets must be purchased – see website for more information.

stories of the prophets poster january 2015

Beyond the Veil: Stories of the Prophets. Monthly fun-filled event for children, with storytelling, crafts, art and refreshments. This month’s story is Adam: Peace Be Upon Him. 3-5pm or 6-8pm, President Suite Reception, Murrayfield Stadium, EH12 5PJ. £5 per child, or £3 per child for a family booking. For more information and to register contact beyondtheveil@hotmail.co.uk or call Nasim Asad on 0779 541 7030, giving full names of child, parent and child’s age.

Take a book, make a book: illustrator Alice Melvin will show you how to make your own mini-library of books. Learn different techniques and create your own books to be filled with stories and pictures. For children aged 6+; all children must be accompanied by an adult. 2-3.30pm, Central Children’s Library, George IV Bridge. Free but booking is required via eventbrite.

david cohen

The Basic Elements of Design: a seminar by Dave Cohen. Dave Cohen is an esteemed and active potter, and a former lecturer in Ceramics at Edinburgh College of Art; he currently works from Tantallon Studios near North Berwick, where his work is on display in the gallery and garden. Dave will present a slide show focusing on how the elements of visual vocabulary were applied to his art over the past 53 years. 11am-1pm, ground floor meeting room G5, St Margaret’s House, 151 London Road. Free tickets can be booked via eventbrite.

1d tenement opera header

North Edinburgh Arts Theatre Project: 1d Tenement Opera. A story based on the lives of people who lived in an Edinburgh tenement over two centuries: the tenement eventually became part of Edinburgh Corporation’s Slum Clearance Programme, some of the tenements were sold for just 1d, and in 1959 one of the last tenements collapsed and a little boy was killed. This was known as the Penny Tenement Collapse; local people told stories of being in the bath and the end of the room falling away, others spoke of desperately trying to save their babies and children as floorboards started to slope away from under them.  The 1d Tenement Opera has been devised with the people of North Edinburgh (some of whose families were living in the city centre before the Slum Clearance Programme) working with various artists and director Stephanie Knight.  7pm, North Edinburgh Arts, 15a Pennywell Court. Free: donations very welcome. Please contact  the Box Office to reserve your tickets: call 0131  315 2151 or email admin@northedinburgharts.co.uk.

lgbt_entrance

LGBT: T Time Edinburgh. An informal monthly social gathering open to all transgender people and supporters. Come along for tea/coffee and a chat in a friendly, relaxed environment. An optional event runs alongside each T Time, involving a range of interests, information and activities: today Art Therapy – find out more about what art therapy involves, with an opportunity to use the art materials.  1-4pm (art therapy 2-3.30pm), LGBT Health & Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. For more information contact admin@lgbthealth.org.uk or jules@lgbthealth.org.uk, or call 0131 523 1104.

GENERATION Tours at Modern One: free. discussion-led tours of the GENERATION exhibition, focusing on key themes and artists. 11-11.45am or 1-1.45pm, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art ONE, Belford Road. Free: no booking required.

 

the darian duo

Lunchtime Concert: The Darian Duo from Manchester play piano and violin. 12.15pm, St Giles’ Cathedral, High Street. Free

Portrait Gallery Architecture Tour: monthly architecture tour of the magnificent Arts & Crafts building designed by Sir Robert Rowand Anderson. 2-2.45pm, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free but booking essential as places are limited: call 0131 624 6560.

Bookbug: rhymes and songs for young children and their parents/carers. 10.30-11am today and every Saturday, Corstorphine Library, 12 Kirk Loan. Free.

lari don

Family Storytelling with Lari Don. Lari is a children’s writer based in Edinburgh: this event will be aimed at children aged 5+, but younger children are still welcome to come along. 10.30am Area C Coffeehouse, 239-241 Leith Walk. This event is organised by Common Weal North Edinburgh & Leith.

From the 1970s to 2014: Tanzania in pictures: a slide presentation on life in Tanzania 1976-79 and 2014. John Frank, Professor of Public Health at the University of Edinburgh, was a Canadian volunteer Medical Officer in Tanzania 1976-79, along with Eden Anderson, a volunteer teacher of African literature in English. Professor Frank recently revisited this beautiful country; he and Eden will share their very best pictures of the country, and of the wildlife and birds at two of East Africa’s most remote reserves, Selous and Ruaha. 8pm, St John’s Church Hall, Princes Street. £8/children £4, to include wine and soft drinks: tickets available in advance from the church office or on the door. In aid of the St John’s Development Fund.

 

torrance gallery

Jolomo (John Lowrie Morrison): Isles of Jura, Iona and Colonsay. 11am-6pm Monday to Friday, 10.30am-4pm Saturdays, until 7th February 2015, Torrance Gallery, 36 Dundas Street.

Scandinavian Weekend at Joseph Pearce’s: Scandi food and music all weekend, plus today, 12 noon-4pm, pop-up shop from food and grocery store Nordic Affair. Joseph Pearce’s, 23 Elm Row. Events continue on Sunday 18th January.

RSPB big garden birdwatch

RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch! Every year half a million people take part in the Birdwatch weekend; you can carry out your contribution to this survey of bird life anywhere in the UK – you don’t need to have your own garden (see event website here), and if you would like to participate in the Botanics, you can meet the RSPB there today and tomorrow: 12.30-3.30pm, Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, 20a Inverleith Row.

famelab poster

FameLab: How do 3D glasses work? Why is wearing red an advantage in sport? How do cabbages keep warm in winter? These are some of the things you could learn at the Scottish final of FameLab UK. Witness the finest Scottish science communicators as they battle it out to win a place at the FameLab UK National Final. For ages 12+. 2.30-4.30pm, Auditorium, Level 1, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Free, but booking is required, either in person at the NMS Reception Desk, by calling 0300 123 6789 or via the website here (processing fees apply to phone and online bookings).

Toy Sale at Hemma: if your children have too many toys and want to sell them to earn some money, they can book a table, have a clear-out and learn some entrepreneurship! 3-5pm, Hemma, 73 Holyrood Road. For information and to book, email anna@bodabar.com.

Epiphany Carol Service by Candlelight sung by the Royal School of Church Music Scottish Voices Choir, director Frikki Walker. 4pm, Greyfriars Kirk, Greyfriars Place. An optional light supper and ceilidh will follow: please contact Mirella Yandoll on 0131 225 1900 or administrator@greyfriarskirk.com if you would like to attend the supper and/or ceilidh, for which there is a suggested donation of £5 per person (children free). This service is part of Greyfriars Kirk’s Spark Festival, a year long celebration of worship and the arts, marking the 25th birthday of the Peter Collins organ and the 150th anniversary of the first pipe organ in the Kirk. For more information and a downloadable festival brochure, click here.

Epiphany Carol Service

 




Five things you need to know today

EdiJanSkyline 23

£eith Decides

Pilates in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Tenants Federation meeting today

Great Edinburgh Run 

Disabled Access Day 

The local funding programme £eith Decides has an exhibition at McDonald Road Library and Leith Library from today to help you make up your mind who to vote for. To have a vote you must either live, work or study in Leith.

The decision making event when all 40 applications will be considered takes place on 7 February 2015 at Leith Community Education Centre, New Kirkgate.

12.30 pm –  Registration opens

1.00 pm – 3.00 pm  –  Marketplace of projects.  Visit the stalls, find out about the choiceof projects and give them all a score.

Everyone, 8 years of age and over, who lives, works, volunteers or studies in the Leith Neighbourhood Partnership area is eligible to take part in the decision-making.

 

£eith Decides Facebook page is here.

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GREAT EDINBURGH RUN-LW
Team Scotland athletes Callum and Derek Hawkins were at the Grassmarket in Edinburgh during the week to launch the 2015 Morrisons Great Edinburgh Run with a little help from STV Edinburgh.

The Morrisons Great Edinburgh Run will return to the capital on Sunday 19 April with the ten mile route introduced last year and for the first time will feature the Morrisons Great Edinburgh Run Team Relay.

The new Team Relay event will allow teams of two to complete the ten mile course between them. The first section of the course will cover approximately 4.75 miles of hilly terrain and the second section will follow a gentler 5.25 mile route, including a downhill final mile. Both full ten mile runners and Team Relay runners will start and finish at Holyrood Park, with the Grassmarket hosting the Team Relay changeover point.

More details here.

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Today is Disabled Access Day. It is all about getting out and visiting a venue that you’ve never been to before – whether a cinema, coffee shop, sports centre or anywhere else. The flagship event will be taking place on the Royal Yacht Britannia and at Ocean Terminal in Edinburgh, where visitors can get discounted entry, try an accessible bus and meet assistance dogs & learn about the work they do.

You can also visit the Scottish Parliament building which will be offering public guided tours from 10.30 am.

“The Scottish Parliament extends an especially warm welcome to disabled visitors on Disabled Access Day. Additional tours have been arranged and special offers are available in the gift shop and cafe. There is also a chance to learn more about the ways in which the Scottish Parliament is accessible to disabled visitors.”

More information on the website here




Hearts Game Abandoned Due to Snow

The much-anticipated top of the table clash between SPFL Championship leaders Hearts and Rangers ended in farce tonight when the game at Ibrox was abandoned after 25 minutes because of snow on the pitch and fears for the safety of the players.

Despite heavy snow in Glasgow in the hours leading up to the game, referee Bobby Madden gave the go-ahead for the game to kick-off after inspecting the pitch at 7.00pm, some 45 minutes before its scheduled start.

When the game began, however, players from both sides struggled to keep their balance and the ball stuck in the snow covered surface on more than one occasion. The only moment of note came when Hearts Alim Ozturk hit the crossbar with a free-kick.

Hearts head coach Robbie Neilson agreed with the decision to abandon the game. “I think it was the right decision to start the game, but it was becoming worse and dangerous,” he told BBC Scotland.

The decision was a frustrating one for the 2,000 Hearts supporters who endured difficult conditions travelling through to Glasgow – and some of whom experienced attacks from Rangers fans as they headed for supporters buses after the game was abandoned. At least one Hearts supporters’ bus had its windows smashed as police tried to deal with ugly scenes.

A date for the re-arranged game will be announced by the SPFL early next week. Hearts remain 13 points clear of Rangers at the top of the SPFL Championship.

 




Letter from Scotland

BP's Andrew platform in the North Sea

We’ve been battening down the hatches in more senses than one this week. The usual January storms seem to have no end and no mercy and our oil lamps are running low on fuel.  A perfect storm has hit our crucial oil industry. Lower prices and higher production costs are threatening 17,750 jobs, according to one estimate by the Scottish Parliament.  As I write, BP is announcing 300 job losses at its offices in Aberdeen. (photo courtesy of BP p.l.c.)

This has brought all hands on deck, as the politicians seek to steady the ship, or at least apportion the blame.  At first minister’s question time, Labour’s Kezia Dugdale pointed out that, with the price of oil plunging to less than $50 a barrel, half its value during the halcyon days of the pre-Referendum summer,   this was not to time to abandon the UK’s generous Barnett formula – the calculation which determines the Scottish Parliament’s block grant.

First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon struck back by accusing the UK government of mismanaging the oil industry – squandering its £300bn of tax revenues and failing to encourage new investment.  And, throwing consensus to the wind, she said Labour MPs should hang their heads in shame for supporting the Conservatives in imposing £30bn more of austerity cuts on the British economy.

Earlier in the week, Ms Sturgeon was in Aberdeen to announce an energy jobs task force which will try to find alternative work for redundant oil workers and seek to keep apprentices in work or training until the price of oil comes to the surface again.

The Governor of the Bank of England Mark Carney failed to pour oil on these troubled waters when he told a Commons committee that the UK would benefit from the lower oil price ( inflation, for instance, is down to 0.5 per cent) but Scotland would suffer a “negative shock.”  He expected, however, that this would be cushioned by our old friend the Barnett formula.

Storms are a time to keep close to your radio and during the week we tuned in to hear varied tales of woe from the north and west – though, even here in Edinburgh, the winds were whipping round Blackford Hill at a lively 70mph.  An unfortunate 120,000 householders in the Highlands and Islands were without electricity for a time. Ferries were disrupted, some trains cancelled, schools closed. Snow blocked the A9 near Blair Atholl, leaving 17 miles of frustrated car and lorry drivers listening to their radios for hours on end.

Climate change was even worse news for our twin country in Africa.  Floods have been causing havoc in the north and south of Malawi.  Reports from the stricken areas say at least 48 people have been killed and 69,000 forced to leave their homes.

Scotland’s supermarkets told the Government this week that they are doing their bit to tackle climate change.  The Scottish Retail Consortium say their members exceeded their targets for 2013 of cutting waste sent to landfill from 46 per cent to 6 per cent and reducing energy emissions from their premises by 30 per cent.  They promised to cut carbon emissions by a further quarter over the next six years.  And Edinburgh Council has declared its intention to become the first city in Scotland to introduce a 20mph speed restriction on all but its main arterial roads by the end of this year.

Finally, fossil remains found on the Isle of Skye have given me hope that I might once day see the Loch Ness Monster.  Palaeontologists from the University of Edinburgh say the remains belonged to a four-metre long, dolphin-like sea creature which swam in the warm waters around the Scottish coast during the Jurassic era 170 million years ago.  They’ve named it Dearmhara Shawcrossi, after the Gaelic word for sea-lizard and the man who found the fossil Brian Shawcross.

Could this be the cousin of the monster who got caught in Loch Ness as Scotland emerged from the sea, with another climate change, all those years ago ?

And are his descendants still with us ?




New suite at the EICC gets the royal treatment

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Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal has officially opened the new Lennox Suite of the recently expanded Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC). The venue’s £30 million expansion has been designed to keep Edinburgh at the forefront of the global meetings and events marketplace.

The EICC first opened its doors in 1995 and was opened officially a year later by Her Majesty The Queen. Since that time more than one million delegates have travelled to the city to attend, mostly, international conferences and events. Today, an invited audience of leading meetings industry professionals witnessed the Royal opening event, for the Lennox Suite.  The event was also attended by Lord Lieutenant and Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, The Rt. Hon. Donald Wilson and Scottish Government Minister for Business, Energy and Tourism, Fergus Ewing MSP.

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal performed the ceremony at the Lennox Suite by initiating a computer-controlled sequence of changes to the Suite’s revolutionary hall-wide moving floor system. The moving floor enables a space the size of four tennis courts to be transformed from flat-floored exhibition space, to a tiered theatre for 2,000 delegates or a performance arena for 1,400 spectators in a fraction of the time required in conventional event spaces.

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Speaking at the event EICC Chief Executive, Marshall Dallas announced the venue’s latest initiative ‘InnovationNation’: a yearlong programme of free public lectures created to celebrate innovation in Edinburgh and Scotland.

“We attract scientists, business people and leading thinkers from around the world to meetings and events at the EICC. In 2015 we look forward to sharing our expanded venue with a local audience through a series of free public lectures, which have been designed to highlight Scotland as a nation of innovation,” said Dallas.

Commenting on Scotland’s place in the global meetings industry Scottish Government Minister for Business, Energy and Tourism, Fergus Ewing MSP said:

“We will work together with the industry to leverage the reputation that Scotland has gained on the global stage into even greater returns for business tourism. Business tourism is a perfect example of how we can continue to export goods, people and ideas around the world and, at the same time, welcome ideas, innovation and people into our national culture.”

The expanded EICC is one the world’s most technologically advanced meetings and events spaces with a forward schedule of client events through to end 2020 set to deliver an economic impact in excess of £300 million in The City of Edinburgh.

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Photos courtesy of Malcolm Cochrane Photography.




Hibs outline new share issue details

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Hibs have put forward three ways in which supporters can get involved from February 2nd when shares will be made available:

Option 1 – existing shareholders (who were on the share register as at 5pm on January 9th) can apply direct to the Club using the application form attached to the Information Memorandum enclosed with the pack of information sent to them on January 12th for the forthcoming AGM

Option 2 – the 20,000 adult supporters who are on the Club database because they have bought tickets for matches but who are not existing shareholders can apply to the Club to receive an Information Memorandum and application form by completing and returning the form on the back of the letter they will receive over the weekend. By returning the form countersigned by an IFA, they will be eligible to apply for shares. Any supporter who does not receive a letter from the Club by January 23rd can email the Club on shares@hibernianfc.co.uk to request a letter and request form.

Option 3 – anyone who wishes to donate to broadening supporter ownership through a new vehicle established to buy and hold shares on behalf of supporters, rather than buying shares directly can find out more at www.hiberniansupporters.co.uk.

The Club has 1700 shareholders, and it is open to them to buy more shares. The Club issued an Information Memorandum to existing shareholders on January 12th explaining how they could subscribe for shares as of February 2nd. This process is not governed by the regulations which apply to non-shareholders.

Supporters on the Club’s database were written to by Chairman Rod Petrie today (January 15th). The Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 and related legislation provide protection for people buying shares in the Club which fall into the category of “non-readily realisable securities”. People in this group who wish to buy shares directly, and so receive a Hibernian FC share certificate, need to go through a process designed to comply with the legislation. That process – involving consulting an Independent Financial Adviser – is detailed in the letter they received. There is a form printed on the back of the letter which should be countersigned by an IFA and returned to the Club in order to receive an Information Memorandum. An application for shares is attached to the Information Memorandum.

Hibernian Supporters Ltd was launched on January 14th, with a Board of seven directors chaired by Kenny MacAskill MSP. The Board also includes former Club captain Jackie Macnamara, Proclaimer Charlie Reid, and other founding directors including supporters Jim Adie and Gordon Smith along with former Club Director Stephen Dunn and Club Chief Executive Leeann Dempster. Hibernian Supporters Limited is a simple alternative to holding shares directly.

Hibernian Supporters Limited is a company limited by guarantee with the sole objective and aim of buying and holding shares in Hibernian FC for the benefit of supporters. Any person can sign up to donate (the minimum suggested donation is £225 per annum or £18.75 per month) to the company and this money will be used to acquire shares in Hibernian. Supporters who make contributions will not own shares directly but will own Hibernian Supporters Limited, which in turn will own the shares in the Club.

Every person who donates the minimum amount will become a member of Hibernian Supporters Limited and each member will have one vote on issues affecting that company, including the make-up of its Board. Hibernian Supporters Limited entered into an agreement with the Club that it will use all the money it receives to subscribe for shares and that the Club will make those shares available to Hibernian Supporters Limited.

Supporters who contribute through Hibernian Supporters Limited will not receive a share certificate, as they will not own shares in the Club themselves, but they will receive a certificate acknowledging the part they have played in securing supporter ownership of the Club.




Alan Stubbs’ selection headache

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New signing Franck Dja Djédjé is giving Head Coach Alan Stubbs a selection problem ahead of tomorrow’s game against Cowdenbeath at Easter Road.

Although Hibs could only manage a draw against play-off rivals Falkirk last week, Stubbs was happy with the performance of his front two, Jason Cummings (pictured) and Martin Boyle.

Cummings was denied a hat trick by referee Willie Collum who reported that Hibs’ second was actually an own goal although TV evidence from behind the goals suggest the final touch cae from the Easter Road teenager.

Speaking to Hibs TV, Stubbs said: “We are working with Franck day-by-day to try and get his fitness to where we feel it needs to be in order for him to perform at first team level.

“He may start on Saturday – we’ll have to wait and see how it goes.

“But thankfully, in my opinion, I thought both Jason (Cummings) and Martin (Boyle) were lively and a threat last week; causing Falkirk problems.

“If Franck is ready then great, but if not then I’m very happy with how the current front two are performing.”

There was some good news this week with versatile defender Jordon Forster returning to full time training. Foster played much of last season at right back which could work out well with David Gray sidelined for up to six weeks following an operation on his groin.

He added: “Jordon trained for the first time on Thursday, full contact, so he’s really happy and so are we.

“The fact he is back amongst the squad again is good news and hopefully it won’t be too long before he is back in contention for a starting place.”

Photo by John Preece




Nine men charged in connection with Ferniehill firearms incident

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Police in Edinburgh have charged nine men following an incident in Fernieside Avenue, in the early hours of 9th September 2014, when shots were fired at a property.

The nine men are 18 years old, 19 years old, 23 years old, 24 years old, 29 years old, 31 years old, 36 years old, and two men who are 30 years old.

They have been reported to the Procurator Fiscal for a number of offences including culpable and reckless discharge of a firearm, directing and being involved in serious and organised crime, attempting to defeat the ends of justice, dangerous driving and driving without a valid licence.

Detective Chief Inspector Kenny Gray said: “We have now reported nine people to the Procurator Fiscal for the firearms incident in Fernieside Avenue in September. However our investigations are still continuing and I would reiterate our appeal for anyone who saw a motorbike with two people riding on it, in the Murrays around 9.30pm on Saturday 20th September. I’d like to thank those in the community for their patience and assistance and I want to assure them we are determined to stamp out organised crime in the city.”

Chief Inspector Richard Horan said: “Organised crime will not be tolerated by Police Scotland or those within the community, and we will vigorously pursue all those who seek to threaten public safety. I’d like to thank the community of south Edinburgh and anyone with any concerns, or who would like to report any information to us, should not hesitate in coming forward.”

Anyone with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.




Health Day at the Botanics

flyerThere is a day of talks about health and food taking place at the Botanics on 24 January which will concentrate on what you should really eat.

An impressive line up of speakers (and great food for lunch!) will prove entertaining for those keen to know more about how certain foods impact on their health.

This event is organised by Emily Maguire a degree qualified nutrionist living in Edinburgh and Frances Bavin who is a nutritional therapist.

The aim is to share a day of talks and exhibitions about health and nutrition but also to get people thinking ‘outside the box’. The two food professionals want to get you interested in real food and how you can change your lifestule to attain better health.

There will be local speaker and exhibitors to show off what Scotland and Edinburgh in particular can offer you .

The Edinburgh Reporter spoke with Frances to tell us more about what to expect from the day:

Edinburgh Reporter NEWS from Phyllis Stephen on Vimeo.

You can book a place here.




Art4X exhibition opens next week at Edinburgh College of Art

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The Scottish Society of Architect Artists (SSAA) will hold ART4X, its most ambitious exhibition to date, at The Sculpture Court, Edinburgh College of Art, from 21 to 24 January.

The exhibition features over 100 unique and accessible works of art by European architect-artists from Italy, France, Germany, Poland and Scotland. A number of invited ‘special guest artists’ will also be featured, including Kelpies sculptor, Andy Scott.

cornish-harbour_medART4X will raise funds in support of The University of Edinburgh’s renowned Patrick Wild Centre for Research into Autism, Fragile X Syndrome and Intellectual Disabilities. Visitors will also have the chance to view a series of highly unusual and colourful ‘Neuroscience Prints’ by The Patrick Wild Centre which, appropriately, bring together the seemingly disparate worlds of Science and the Visual Arts.

A charity auction will be held on the evening of 20 January, in advance of the opening of the exhibition. This will be hosted by media personality and Past President of RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects), Maxwell Hutchinson and guest auctioneer, Gavin Strang, of Lyon & Turnbull.

At this event, the first ever winners of the SSAA Student Prize will be announced and Honorary Fellowships awarded to a number of leading individuals in the sphere of the Visual Arts.

Previews of representative art exhibits are available at: www.art4x.org.uk/gallery.

Places at the Charity Auction are limited; those wishing to attend should contact kerry.mackay@ed.ac.uk.

Images show Calton Hill by Karen Cairns and Cornish Harbour by Katie Littlefield




Witness appeal following Easter Road assault

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Police are appealing for witnesses following a serious assault which took place around 11am yesterday near the Londis convenience store in Easter Road.

A 57-year-old man was walking his dog, when a male walked passed him before punching him to the face. 
 
A struggle ensued between the two men during which time victim was bitten on the cheek.

Eventually, the victim was assisted by the driver of a white minibus who drove him away from the area.

Officers are now urging anyone who can assist with their enquiry to come forward.

The suspect is described as white, 25 to 30 years old and between 5 feet 5 and 5 foot 10 inches tall with short bright ginger hair.  He was wearing a grey zip-up hooded top, with a Hibs crest on the left chest, black top underneath and dark trousers and trainers.

Constable Andrew McMath said: “This incident quickly escalated from a verbal altercation into quite a serious attack, which left the victim with a painful facial injury.

“I would urge anyone who remembers seeing anything suspicious in Easter Road on Thursday morning to contact police immediately.

“Similarly, if anyone can help us to identify and trace the man responsible for this assault, they should also get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.




Five men arrested as part of domestic abuse operation

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Five men have been arrested and charged with a range of sexual and domestic abuse offences as part of an ongoing policing operation in Edinburgh.

The Public Protection Unit, Domestic Abuse Task Force and officers on a Campaign Against Violence Day deployment conducted various enquiries within the Capital yesterday during an Operation Wolf enforcement day.

As a result two men aged 56 and 53 from the Wester Hailes area were detained following a report of historic serious sexual assaults, crimes against children and domestic assaults.

In addition, a 59-year-old man was arrested and charged in connection with an indecent exposure.

All three men are due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court today.

A 66-year-old male was also charged with various sexual offences including sexual assault and indecent assault while a 28-year-old man was charged with assaulting a child.

Both of these individuals will appear in court at a later date.

Detective Chief Inspector Alwyn Bell said: “We are committed to protecting the public from harm and whenever we receive reports of crimes such as domestic abuse and sexual assault we will carry out a robust investigation to bring those responsible to justice.

“Yesterday’s Operation Wolf activity should send a very clear message that no matter how old the offence, we can and will pursue offenders and remove them from our communities.

“I would like to reassure the public that all reports of domestic abuse or sexual crime are taken extremely seriously and acted upon appropriately. Anyone who wishes to report a crime of this nature can contact Police Scotland on 101 or make an anonymous report through the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”




Mystery of scorpion found in Blackford Avenue office

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Terrified office workers in Edinburgh called the Scottish SPCA after they discovered a scorpion.

Scotland’s animal welfare charity was alerted by staff at the Dog Aid Society of Scotland when the creature was spotted at the office on Blackford Avenue.

The scorpion, around the size of a ten pence piece, was collected by Animal Rescue Officer Steph Grant and taken to Edinburgh Butterfly and Insect World.

Steph said, “It’s a bit of a mystery as to how the scorpion came to be there.

“We’ve had instances in the past where we’ve rescued exotic spiders and scorpions found in boxes of fruit originating from overseas, but the people who work in the office haven’t had any fruit deliveries and can’t imagine where it has come from.

“Blackford is a residential area so there is a chance the scorpion is someone’s pet which has gone missing.

“Office staff managed to contain the scorpion by putting a glass over it but were understandably quite frightened by their little visitor.

“It was cold when I arrived but once it warmed up it became more lively.

“Usually the smaller the scorpion, the more venomous they are, however staff at Edinburgh Butterfly and Insect World have yet to identify the species as it’s so tiny.

“It’s likely this is a young scorpion which still has some growing to and the staff are hopeful they will be able to identify the species soon.

“The scorpion will remain at Edinburgh Butterfly and Insect World where it will receive the care it needs.”

Anyone who believes this to be their scorpion can call the Scottish SPCA’s Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.

Photo by Scottish SPCA




Friends of the Earth speak out for clean air

Friends of the Earth (FoE) would like you to ask the Government to fund their Clean Air Plan.

Earlier in the week FoE revealed that levels of air pollution on streets in Scotland are still breaking legal limits and some in Edinburgh are among the worst. They produced this heat map showing in red the worst offenders. They reported that St John’s Road and Queensferry Road are getting worse rather than better.

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In Corstorphine, plans to build a new Waitrose supermarket on St John’s Road within a declared Pollution Zone are being opposed by local residents who are worried that the associated 140 parking spaces as part of the plans will invite more traffic and air pollution into the area.

Helen Crowley, 38, is a mum of two and leads the Corstorphine Waitrose Campaign. She said:

“There are hundreds of children walking to and from school via St John’s Road every day. I was shocked to learn how bad the pollution is and what damage it can do to our health. You see a lot of children at school with asthma inhalers, more than when I was at school, and you wonder if it’s due to the pollution. I worry what harm the congestion and pollution is doing to my kids.

“St John’s Road is one of Scotland’s most polluted streets. Edinburgh City Council should not approve developments that will attract more cars and lorries to the area until pollution levels are brought under control.”

The Scottish Government has launched a clean air action plan, called the “Low Emission Strategy,” for consultation.

It sets out action already being taken by the Scottish Government and its agencies, health boards and local authorities to tackle air pollution. It also contains proposals for improving air quality across the country by, for example, better co-ordinating policies at national and local level.

Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform, Aileen McLeod, said:

“Clean air is essential for our health, wellbeing and to protect our environment and we know that it is the most vulnerable members of our society – the very young, the elderly and those with existing cardiovascular and respiratory conditions – who suffer the most from the effects of air pollution.

“Although we’ve made excellent progress reducing emissions across Scotland in recent years, it is clear that more needs to be done particularly in our towns and cities where pockets of poor air quality remain.

“Improving Scotland’s air quality is not something that can be tackled by Government alone – it needs action from local authorities, businesses, the third sector and the general public. This draft strategy provides a framework within which we can all work together to achieve our vision of Scotland’s air being amongst the cleanest in Europe and I urge as many people as possible to respond to our consultation.”

Minister for Transport and Islands, Derek Mackay, said:

“This year will see record investment in active travel – nearly £40 million – to promote the uptake of cycling and walking, with £17 million being invested over the last two years in low emission vehicles and infrastructure and our Green Bus Fund scheme, which is supporting bus operators moving to cleaner, greener technologies. This investment is helping us achieve our vision of freeing Scotland’s towns, cities and communities from the damaging effects of petrol and diesel fuelled vehicles by 2050.

“Greater use of public transport, green infrastructure, cycling and walking will help make our urban areas more pleasant spaces to move around and spend time in, with additional benefits realised like reducing congestion, improving traffic flow, and delivering practical and financial benefits for businesses.”

A spokesman for FoE said: “The Strategy is the best thing that the Government has put on the table to date to tackle air pollution, but it has no funding attached to it so could end up being toothless.

“The Government’s budget plan for the coming year is to spend a meagre £3.15 million to tackle air quality, compared with a whopping £700 million on building new motorways and roads. Meanwhile, air pollution costs the Scottish economy £1.6 billion in health costs and days of work lost. A little more to help air quality could go a long way.

“We need to send a strong message to the Scottish Government that they need to put their money where their mouth is to make our air safe to breathe!”

FoE ask you to take a moment to email John Swinney, Deputy First Minister & Finance Secretary to ask that he doubles the funding available in the budget to tackling air pollution.

You can take action here and you can read the consultation document below.

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Former Hibs’ midfielder Liam Miller joins Cork city

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Former Hibs’ player and Republic of Ireland international Liam Miller has agreed a contract Cork City FC.

Miller, who has been capped 21 times at senior level, is returning to Leeside from the Australian A-League, where he was a member of the Brisbane Roar team which won the 2014 Grand Final.

The 33 year old midfielder started his career with Celtic before moving to Manchester United under the Bosman ruling. He failed to make the expected impact at Old Trafford and moved to Sunderland after a loan spell with Leeds United. After a spell with QPR, John Hughes swopped to bring him to Easter road where he teamed up with fellow Irishman Anthony Stokes and helped Hibs to a European place after finishing fourth in the SPL. His performances won him the SPL Player of the Month award in October 2009.

He left in March 2011 after making 76 appearances for Hibs, scoring seven goals.

Speaking to CorkCityFC.ie about joining the club, Miller said: “I am delighted to be returning home. I will be proud to wear the Cork City jersey and do what I can for the team in front of all my family and friends. I am best mates with Mark McNulty; I played with both him and Colin Healy since Under 16s and have lots of good memories. I also know Billy Dennehy who I played with at Sunderland.”

Cork City boss John Caulfield said he was delighted to be adding the experienced midfielder to his squad, stating: “We are delighted to sign Liam. Something developed over the last few weeks and it is a real marquee signing for us to get a player of Liam’s quality; he has been playing at the highest level in Australia, winning a league medal there last May. Having a Cork lad like Liam coming home is a major signing and a big boost for us at the start of pre-season. We are all looking forward to Liam coming in, we all know how good a player he is and it is a fantastic signing for us.”

“He has played in Europe with Celtic and Man United, and of course he has played internationally with Ireland as well, so he has huge experience, but, most importantly for me, he is still in peak condition, still at the top of his game and full of energy. His all round strengths mean he is going to be a fantastic addition to the squad and we are all looking forward to seeing him in training soon.”




Burns Night with St Columba’s!

 

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If you’re looking for a great night out and a good cause to support at the same time, today is your last chance to buy tickets for the St Columba’s Hospice Burns Supper which takes place on 23rd January!

The events team at St Columba’s has organised a fabulous line up; your host will be Forth One presenter Grant Scott, with speakers Mark Cox and Jane McCarry (Tam and Isa from Still Game)  and comedy from Fringe favourite Bruce Fummey. You’ll be welcomed to the Corn Exchange with a drink, then enjoy a three course traditional meal with cheeseboard; James MacSween will address the haggis – and of course there’ll be a dram to toast the Bard! That should keep you going for the ceilidh, with music from Corra and dancing into the wee sma ‘oors. Tickets cost £55 each and you need to call 0131 551 1381 or email fund@stcolumbashospice.org.uk NOW if you would like some – sales end at 5pm today.

St Columba’s provides specialist palliative care for patients, as well as emotional, spiritual and practical support for them and their families and carers, and they do all this for free. The Hospice also has a huge commitment to the education of medical staff and carers from across Scotland in palliative care. Its aim is always to improve the lives of people whose illnesses cannot be cured, with the highest value placed on respect, choice and empowerment.

If you can’t make it to the Burns Supper, maybe you can donate something for the raffle? They’re looking for bottles (and they don’t mean bottles of water…), and you can drop these off at the Hospice reception at 15 Boswall Road, where they will be gratefully received. And take a look at St Columba’s website for other ways in which you can help this worthwhile charity; there are lots of ideas for both fundraising and volunteering.

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Woman dies after Western General fire

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Firefighters dealt with a fire and evacuation of patients from the Royal Victoria Building in the Western General Hospital in the early hours of this morning.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) were alerted to a fire in the Royal Victoria Building, Western General Hospital, Porterfield Road, Edinburgh at around 2.30am.

This was an Automatic Fire Alarm call received by SFRS Operations Control Room in Edinburgh from the Hospital switch board.

Fire appliances from Crewe toll, Tollcross and McDonald Road community fire stations were immediately dispatched and arrived to find what they described as a small fire in a ground floor ward of the Royal Victoria Building.

Two firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the ward, dealt with the fire and an injured female patient.

At the same time, firefighters also assisted hospital staff with the evacuation of 14 other patients from the affected ward to another area within the hospital.

Sadly the female patient passed away at the scene and SFRS Fire Investigation Unit officers along with Police Scotland officers are working together to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.




Friday in Edinburgh – What’s On Today

David Lemm Debris and Phenomena exhibition image - Printmakers January 2015

David Lemm: Debris and Phenomena. The first solo exhibition by David Lemm, presenting a new body of printed works produced at Edinburgh Printmakers and whilst on an artist’s residence on Eigg; the works continue and develop David’s practice of building layered compositions, printed onto found sea charts. Tonight David will give a talk about his latest works, and the themes and ideas he explores in the exhibition; the talk will be followed by an open preview. Talk: 6.30-7.30pm (free but tickets required: these can be booked via eventbrite), preview: 7.30-9pm, then 10am-6pm Tuesday to Saturday until 7th March 2015, Edinburgh Printmakers, 23 Union Street.

WEA and Citadel Arts Group present When The War Came Home: a new play about World War One and its impact on Edinburgh.When The War Came Home gives voice to the part played by local people caught up in Zeppelin raids, working in munitions, and fighting on the Front. Historical figures include Edinburgh doctor Elsie Inglis, Sir George McRae who led the Hearts players into battle, Wilfred Owen teaching at Tynecastle High, and Chrystal Macmillan, who courageously opposed the war. 7-9pm, Tynecastle High School, 2 McLeod Street. Tickets cost £8/£6 and can be obtained from Fiona Tennick: call 01875 340717 or email ftennick@hotmail.com.

wenelien van oldenburgh at Collective Jan 2015

Wendelien van Oldenborgh: Beauty and the Right to the Ugly. A cinematic experience set in Het Karregat, a multifunctional community centre in Eindhoven designed by Frank van Klingeren, who sought to propitiate communal forms of habitation. Wendelien van Oldenborgh examines the ambition – and failure – of utopian architecture. Wendelien is based in Rotterdam and has recently been awarded the prestigious Dr AH Heineken prize for art: she has exhibited widely. Open preview tonight 6-8pm, then 10am-4pm, Tuesday to Sunday until 29th March 2015, Collective Gallery, City Observatory and City Dome, 38 Calton Hill. Free.

Easel Sketching in the Gallery – January: sketching in the gallery, led by artist Damian Callan.  A different subject each month, sometimes with a model. All materials supplied. 2-4pm, Scottish National Gallery (main gallery floor), The Mound. Free: no booking required.

Story time: 9.30-10.30am today and every Friday (and Thursday!), Edinburgh Bookshop, 219 Bruntsfield Place.

A Singing Practice

A Singing Practice by Gerard ter Borch: art historian Ola Wojtkiewitz considers the iconography in Gerard ter Borch’s A Singing Practice (1655) and will compare the National Gallery’s version with others, whilst discussing ter Borch’s style in the context of Dutch Baroque. 12.45-1.30pm, Hawthornden Lecture Theatre, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed.

Create: make great arts and crafts using different techniques and materials. This term: mosaic, textiles, sculpture and more. For ages 7-14. 2.15-4pm today and every Friday until 27th February 2015, WHALE Arts, 30 Westburn Grove. Contact WHALE for more information: call 0131 458 3267 or email info@whalearts.co.uk. Free.

mark mcgowan - eca friday lecture series 17th Jan 2015

Edinburgh College of Art Friday Lecture Series: Mark McGowan. Mark McGowan, otherwise known as The Artist Taxi Driver, is a prominent public protester. activist and social commentator. He is a London taxi driver known internationally for his street and performance art and his online video blogs. 11.30am, Main Lecture Theatre (E22), Edinburgh College of Art  Lauriston Place. Free and open to all.

1d Tenement Opera poster

North Edinburgh Arts Theatre Project: 1d Tenement Opera. A story based on the lives of people who lived in an Edinburgh tenement over two centuries: the tenement eventually became part of Edinburgh Corporation’s Slum Clearance Programme, some of the tenements were sold for just 1d, and in 1959 one of the last tenements collapsed and a little boy was killed. This was known as the Penny Tenement Collapse; local people told stories of being in the bath and the end of the room falling away, others spoke of desperately trying to save their babies and children as floorboards started to slope away from under them.  The 1d Tenement Opera has been devised with the people of North Edinburgh (some of whose families were living in the city centre before the Slum Clearance Programme) working with various artists and director Stephanie Knight.  7pm, North Edinburgh Arts, 15a Pennywell Court. Free: donations very welcome. Please contact the Box Office to reserve your tickets: call 0131  315 2151 or email admin@northedinburgharts.co.uk. Also at same time Saturday 17th January 2015.

Kalopsia Collective: Space – a new exhibition of contemporary art, curated by Danny Lamb. Kalopsia, Ocean Terminal, Ocean Drive. 10am-6pm Monday to Saturday, 11am-5pm Sundays, until 7th February 2015. Kalopsia is a social enterprise.

doorways to the divine image

Doorways to the Divine: curated by Basia Mindewicz, Doorways to the Divine features the work of six artists who are each exploring the idea of art as a spiritual path. Some of the works on show are inspired by the traditions of Christian or Buddhist iconography, others explore the possibility of directly channelling imagery from a universal spiritual source. By showing their work together, the artists aim to create a reflective, sacred space in which visitors may find a sense of sanctuary – and their own doorways to the divine. Open preview 7pm tonight, then 10am-6pm daily until 8th February 2014, Gallery 3, St Margaret’s House, 151 London Road. Free: all welcome.

Somewhere in this Song: an exhibition of new work by Alan McGowan.’Featuring richly-layered figure paintings and unfinished works, each portrait offers a fleeting glimpse of the intimacy the artist establishes with his models.’ Open preview 7pm tonight, then 10am-6pm daily until 8th February 2014, Gallery 1, St Margaret’s House, 151 London Road. Free: all welcome.

Food Co-Op: buy cheap, good quality food from Green City. The Scottish Wholefoods Collective Warehouse (t/a Green City) is a workers’ co-operative aiming to create a non-exploitative workplace that takes into consideration the interests of the workers, the environment and the community as a whole. They are committed to encouraging local producers and buy organic wherever possible. They do not sell any products tested on animals, and all of their stock is suitable for vegetarians. 3-6pm, Forest Cafe, 141 Lauriston Place.

the counting house sign

Acme Dance Club: ‘five fabulous hours of music for dancers of all ages in the classic surroundings of The Counting House’. A diverse selection of musical genres, including jazz, pop, disco, country, latin and swing, plus tunes from film scores, TV programmes and advertisements. ‘Dress up or dress down, but be prepared to dance…’ 8pm-1am tonight and monthly, The Counting House Bar, 36 West Nicolson Street. £2 on the door.

Building Echoes: an exhibition analysing the relationship between architecture and art. Artists Alberto Condotta and Colin Lindsay will give their own vision of the meaning of architecture, also playing with the concepts of ‘body’ and ‘sculpture’. Opening tonight 6-8pm, then Wednesday to Friday 2-7pm, Saturdays 11am-2pm, Interview Room 11, 38 Castle Terrace. Alberto Condotta will give a talk at 4pm on 19th January 2015 and Colin Lindsay will give a talk at 6pm on 28th January 2015. Interview Room 11 is an artist-run gallery and project space: it is part of Forest Centre+.

Nitekirk: a monthly ministry aiming to create a welcoming sacred space for all. ‘A place of welcome, a space for stillness, a pause on your journey, an open door.’  This month with the Scottish Plainsong Choir. 8pm-11pm (drop-in), Greyfriars Kirk, Greyfriars Place. More information here. Nitekirk is rooted in Greyfriars Kirk and supported by its local ecumenical partners: venues vary from month to month – see website.

nitekirk