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ANCIENT ORIGINS OF HALLOWEENMALE MENOPAUSE

GUY FAWKES NIGHT SAFETYWIN A FABULOUS WEEK FOR 2 IN TURKEY

IN THIS EDITION

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Festival of the Five Arts18th - 28th Oct

Biggar Little Festival 10th Anniversary Programme

The 2012 10th Anniversary Biggar Little Festival Programme October 18th to 28th is hitting the streets this week. Make sure you pick up a copy, it is full of events you won’t want to miss. A chance to hear chart topping Kiki Dee with Carmelo Luggeri, an evening with a double bill of comedians, Sean Walsh and Josh Widdicome (Argos Extra – the only use of extra to mean less!), or how about an evening with X factor contestant Stephen Hunter? Maybe something more traditional, Absolutely Legless bring Irish dance, four talented folk singers The Poozies will be performing and there will be traditional jazz from the Nova Scotia Jazz Band as well as an evening with jazz vocalist Lorna Reid and her quintet. There is a strong film element to the Festival this year with Brave, Anna Karenina and The Descendants all showing. Drama offerings include a stage version of the children’s story ‘Tom’s Midnight Garden’, puppet shows for children and adults, Hamlet and a retelling of the classical myth of Theseus and the Minotaur set to the fiery rhythms of Flamenco music and dance.As you would expect there is much to enjoy in the visual arts with a studio tour to follow, no fewer than eleven separate art exhibitions in town and lots of art and craft workshops. If you like to take part, you can make a hat, join a dance workshop or a singing workshop leading to a choral performance that will impress your friends and family.Lots of events are free, especially on Sunday 21st, Biggar Day Out, when the town comes alive with street theatre, children’s entertainment, craft fair, open stage and beer festival, and on Sunday 28th at 5.30pm a special event for the 10th Anniversary - Biggar Little Festival Firework Display.

Check out the whole programme and book tickets online at www.biggar-little-festival.com, visit on Facebook or follow on Twitter.

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Have you ever seen one of Clydesdale Community Initiatives vans passing you by in the town? Have you ever seen their team out and about working in Lanark and Carluke? The chances are you have; and like myself (until recently) I would have to have admitted I knew nothing about the work they carried out. I had often wondered; but never thought to investigate it further until recently I saw them working in a neighbour’s garden. So you could say I’m a nosy neighbour! I like to call it an ‘interested member of our community!’

Did you know that Clydesdale Community initiatives also known as CCI actually operate as a professional Landscape Construction and Design Specialist? They have worked on a number of high profile projects in our community from the beautiful sensory garden in Lanark to the invigoration of the Market Square Gardens in Carluke. Whether you need a full garden re-design, a new driveway, patio, fencing, decking, laying of a new lawn, or even restoration of an existing wall (as they are also experts in many heritage skills like dyking!) then CCI can deliver. Their garden tidy team which is also led by a horticultural expert can have your garden back in tip top condition in no time; while offering expert advice along the process. To date CCI have worked with a plethora of local community groups, trusts, schools, railway stations and private homes to create inspiring spaces for all.

Creating Beautiful Landscapes

So why use CCI? Apart from the exceptional value, quality and service they offer, by buying in CCI’s services you also receive the added benefits of their social inclusion model. Our team of experts work alongside volunteers from a wide spectrum of adults and young folk, all of whom have or are experiencing social exclusion or are significantly disadvantaged, to participate in real work due to their support needs. By helping these volunteers to make tangible contributions in their communities, CCI’s program has delivered exceptional outcomes for all involved. It’s also worth mentioning that all the monies that are made from work CCI carry out goes straight back into the enterprise pot to help provide more supported placements for volunteers in our local community.

There’s so much more to CCI.....You can find out more about CCI on their new website www.cciweb.org.uk from their highly successful School programme

that has been developed in line with the Curriculum for Excellence to their ‘Gardening for Health’ scheme currently running in partnership with the NHS. With countless projects under their belt within the local community CCI are ready to help on your next

project whether it’s big and small.So you can see; there’s so much more to CCI than meets the eye.

CCI is an award winning model that promotes social inclusion in the workplace

CALL US TODAY FOR A NO OBLIGATION QUOTETelephone 01555 664211Email enquiries@cciweb.org.uk

Working in the Community for the Community

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Welcome to theCarluke and Lanark VISION

The publisher takes no responsibility for the safe keeping or return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or any other material. Any submitted material should be accompanied by a SAE. All material is the copyright of Carluke and Lanark VISION and is not to be reproduced without permmision. The placing of an order for the insertion of an advertisement in this publication shall amount to the acceptance of our terms and conditions, copies of which are available upon request.

For all advertising enquiries please call sales 07957 358 355 or contact: sales@thevisionmarketing.com

This Month We Feature...

Welcome to the third issue of VISION. We are delighted with the response the magazine has been receiving. This month we have had to increase the number of pages to get everything in.

It’s a busy time what with, Halloween, Guy Fawkes night and Christmas party planning upon us. Have a look at our Christmas wine and dine section for some ideas for fantastic party venues over the festive season.We have introduced a travel feature including a fantastic

holiday for two in Turkey. This prize will go to one lucky reader. Competition details are on page 19.

This month’s health feature is the serious topic of Male Menopause, an issue not yet fully recognised.

Thank you for sending in all your pet pictures. See “Luke” the ten year old cocker spaniel on page18

2The Biggar little Festival, tenth year anniversary

10 - 11 14 - 15 19Christmas wine and dine guide

Movies, Clubs and Events. Puzzles and games to get you thinking

WIN a fantastic holiday for 2 in Turkey

Check out this months adverts, for vouchers and competitions. We have inside, i-kandi offering a free spray tan, free bottle of wine for diners at VIP Tapas, Pink Turban has a 20% discount voucher plus the meal for two competition, the Horse and Jockey have a 10% discount on food over Oct and Nov and not forgetting the fantastic Holiday for 2 to Turkey in the travel section.Last month’s winners of the meal for two at Pink Turban are Lesley King from Lesmahagow and Calum Bramwell from Carluke.

8 -9Male menopause, depression and the connection to mid-life crisis

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Ancient Origins of HalloweenHalloween’s origins date back to the ancient Celtic festival of

Samhain (pronounced sow-in). The Celts, who lived 2,000 years ago in the area that is now Ireland, the United Kingdom and northern France, celebrated their new year on November 1. This day marked the end of summer and the harvest and the beginning of the dark, cold winter, a time of year that was often associated with human death. Celts believed that on the night before the new year, the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead became blurred. On the night of October 31 they celebrated Samhain, when it was believed that the ghosts of the dead returned to earth. In addition to causing trouble and damaging crops, Celts thought that the presence of the otherworldly spirits made it easier for the Druids, or Celtic priests, to make predictions about the future. For a people entirely dependent on the volatile natural world, these prophecies were an important source of comfort and direction during the long, dark winter.

To commemorate the event, Druids built huge sacred bonfires, where the people gathered to burn crops and animals as sacrifices to the Celtic deities. During the celebration, the Celts wore costumes, typically consisting of animal heads and skins, and attempted to tell each other’s fortunes. When the celebration was over, they re-lit their hearth fires, which they had extinguished earlier that evening, from the sacred bonfire to help protect them during the coming winter.

Young ladies would try to peel an apple in one long continuous strip. They would then stand and, with the right hand, toss the apple peel over her left shoulder. The act was sometimes accompanied by this charm:

iI pare this apple round and againMy sweetheart's name to flourish plain

I fling the pairing o'er my headMy sweetheart's letter on the ground be read.

The initial the peel formed as it landed on the ground would be the initial of her future lover/husband.

The custom of bobbing for apples was originally another form of divination. Called "aipple dooking" , a tub is filled with water and apples are floated on the surface. The first person to grab an apple with their teeth (no hands allowed!) would be the first to marry.

Hazelnuts also were used to help popular girls make up their minds. The girl would take several nuts and name one for each suitor. The nuts would then be placed in the hearth close to the fire and these words spoken:

If you love me, pop and fly; If you hate me, burn and die.

Old Halloween Supersitions

31st Otober All Hallows’ Eve

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stage. James Cassidy, Production Director for the past 11 years and who first directed CAOS in Godspell 2001, brings his exuberant style and years of experience to every production, ensuring a roaring success for all. President of Carluke Amateur Operatic Society, Heather McCallum Coulthard’s daughter will take to the stage for the very first time, becoming the family’s fourth generation to be a part of the fun. Emily will play the part of Marta Von Trapp. Heather says, “The Sound of Music is superb family entertainment and the show is easily located in the centre of Carluke. We are grateful every year for the enormous support given to us from the local community and beyond.”

The Sound of Music runs from 12th-17th November 2012 at the Carluke Lifestyle Centre, Carnwath Road, Carluke. Tickets are priced from £8-£13 with a Family of 4 discount available for the

Saturday Matinee of £36. To purchase tickets or for more information please contact Janette on 01555 770614 or email info@carlukecaos.co.uk Alison Mattu (writer)

Carluke Amateur Operatic Society (CAOS) invites you to celebrate 90 years of song and dance in the local community. Back in 1922, they opened with HMS Pinafore and are excited to be bringing the wonderful Rodgers & Hammerstein musical The Sound of Music back to the stage this year. It was last performed 21 years ago and is a firm favourite with audience and cast alike. Seasoned member Jonathan Procter played Captain Von Trapp last time around and will get to play the same part this year, performing an enchanting version of the popular ballad, “Edelweiss”. Also CAOS veteran, Elaine Mitchell

who played Maria, returns to the role of the plucky Baroness with the lovely Claire Wheatley playing the ungovernable Maria.

Over the years, the Society has performed a variety of classical musicals including Annie, Brigadoon and Oliver. Many of the cast and crew

have been members for 5-25 years with a few having given an even longer service! Behind the scenes support and direction is paramount to the success of the delightful results we see on

What’s that sound ? It’s.....

The White Horse Inn 1967

Cast of 2012

Elaine Mitchell playing Maria 1991

Elaine playing Maria 1991

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Depression is a common mental health complication of both men and women as they age. For men, the symptoms of depression are often difficult to diagnose and, when related to hormonal changes, many manifest in unique and odd behaviors. If you are in a relationship with a man who seems to be going through a midlife crisis, this could be indicative of male menopause depression for which treatment should be sought.Male menopause, sometimes referred to as andropause, leads to depression in men. Often, because men are not quite sure how to manage the emotions of depression, there is a tendency to act out in strange manners. For men who are engaging in extreme actions, male menopause depression is the typical underlying cause for these irrational decisions that society often labels as a midlife crisis.

If you are concerned about your partner, and the complications associated with male menopause depression, be sure to ask a healthcare profession to consult with your loved one. Typically, with cognitive-behavioral therapy, coupled

with antidepressant medications, the hormonal rebalance can take place and diminish some of the irrational actions. While cognitive-behavioral therapy would seem to be the ideal treatment, to modify the way a man thinks and behaves at this time in his life, antidepressants are also vitally important to rebalance hormones.

While not all men are struggling with hormone complications, most who have male menopause depression will need some type of pharmaceuticals to help with hormones and the aging process.

While there is much debate about menopause and its impact on men, most physicians agree that men, just like women, experience a change in their life cycle beginning at middle age. For men, the symptoms and behaviors that arise out of this change in life will be different from women and often women struggle to understand why men do what they do. If you feel that your partner is going through a midlife crisis, be sure to encourage treatment and ask about the need for further evaluation.

Male Menopause Depression& Connection to Mid-Life Crisis

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Mens Health Issues

Male menopause is an actual condition that affects men as they age and is referred to as "andropause" by the medical community. Unlike menopause in women which consists of a sudden drop in hormones, andropause is a gradual drop in testosterone in men as they age. Beginning around age 30, testosterone in men begins to drop by 1% a year. However, most men do not see the effects in the drop in testosterone until around age 50 to 60. By the age of 70, most men have lost up to 50% of their testosterone.

Symptoms of Male MenopauseAs men age they begin to see signs of the occurrence of male menopause. These signs include:

- Sexual Changes - A reduced desire for sex and less spontaneous erections may occur. Infertility may also occur. Men may also see a change in testes as they become smaller.

- Physical Changes - As testosterone levels fall men may see changes in their physical appearance such as weight gain, loss of muscle mass and strength,

tender or swollen breasts, hair loss, and decreased bone density. Loss of energy and hot flashes may also occur.

- Sleep Disturbances - Insomnia, sleep apnea or other sleeping disorders may occur due to low testosterone levels.

- Changes in Emotional Well-Being - Low testosterone levels can cause some men to experience depression, low energy, concentration and memory problems, low self-esteem, irritability and a sense of isolation. Some men turn to unhealthy and dangerous behaviors such as drinking alcohol excessively, engaging in risky behavior and using illegal drugs. Working excessively may also be a behavior change for some men.

Treatment of Male MenopauseBefore a man can be treated for male menopause it is important for him to have his testosterone levels checked by a doctor. This is done by a simple blood test. Some of the symptoms of male menopause can be explained simply by the natural aging process or the use of certain prescription medications. It is important for your doctor to know what

is causing your symptoms so he can prescribe the right treatment.

Testosterone replacement therapy is available to help men who have low levels of testosterone, but this treatment is controversial. Some men find this treatment to work without any problems, but in older men testosterone replacement therapy can increase the risk of developing prostate cancer as well as cause other health problems. You should have a serious conversation with your doctor about the pros and cons of this treatment before trying it.

Safer ways to treat male menopause include:

• Eating a healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits and lean meats and low in fats and refined sugar.

• Exercising at least 30 minutes each day. A regular exercise program will not only help build muscle and lose fat but is also beneficial for raising mood and increasing concentration and memory.

• Avoid excessive alcohol and drug use.

• See a doctor if you are experiencing depression or mood changes, especially if it is causing dangerous behaviors or thoughts of suicide.

What about Herbal Remedies?

There are many herbal remedies that are marketed for male menopause, but to date there is no proof that any of these products can raise testosterone levels in men. Talk to your doctor before trying any over-the-counter herbal remedies for male menopause.

Male menopause is a real condition and men should seek treatment if they are experiencing uncomfortable symptoms. Understanding the signs and symptoms of male menopause and finding the appropriate treatment can help men find relief and stay healthy as they age.For further information check out these Web sites

www.nhs.uk/conditions/depressionwww.nhs.uk/conditions/male-menopausewww.mind.org.ukwww.samaritans.org Tel:01698 429 411

Symptoms and TreatmentsVISION

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Christmas Wine & DineThe Christmas party season is fast approaching. Don’t leave it too late to start planning your party. The popular choices book up very quickly. Whether it ’s going out with family and friends or the office party, plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

We have a great choice of venue and menus for you to choose from.So there is no excuse not to celebrate in style this Christmas.

Lastly please be careful , arrange your driver, or better still why not all enjoy the evening - book your ride home.

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Have a safe Guy Fawkes Night5th November

Firework Code• Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114.• Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks.• Keep fireworks in a closed box.• Follow the instructions on each firework.• Light them at arm’s length, using a taper.• Stand well back.• Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn’t gone off, it could still explode.• Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them.• Always supervise children around fireworks.• Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves.• Never give sparklers to a child under five.• Keep pets indoors.• Don’t let off fireworks after 11pm.

Strathclyde Fire and Rescue and Strathclyde Police, suggest that you come along to one of the organised, free and fabulous public displays.

Dunbeth Park, Coatbridge : Friday 4 November. 19:30Rawyards Leisure Centre, Airdrie : Friday 4 November: 19:30Broadwood Stadium Car Park, Cumbernauld : Friday 4 November : 19:30Strathclyde Country Park, Motherwell : Saturday 5 November: 19:30

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Health & BeautyVISION

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Directed by: Sam MendesWritten by: Ian Fleming, Neal Purvis, Robert Wade and John LoganProduced by: Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. WilsonStarring: Daniel Craig, Judi Dench, Javier Bardem, Ralph Fiennes, Naomie Harris, Ben Whishaw, Helen McCrory, Albert Finney, Craig Izzard and Rory KinnearMovie Synopsis:Bond's loyalty to M is tested as her past comes back to haunt her. As MI6 comes under attack, 007 must track down and destroy the threat, no matter how personal the cost.Release Date: From Friday 26th Oct

Directed by: Ben AffleckWritten by: Joshuah Bearman and Chris TerrioProduced by: George Clooney, Grant Heslov and Ben AffleckStarring: Bryan Cranston, Ben Affleck, John Goodman, Kyle Chandler, Michael Parks, Clea DuVall and Alan ArkinMovie Synopsis:As the Iranian revolution reaches a boiling point, a CIA 'exfiltration' specialist concocts a risky plan to free six Americans who have found shelter at the home of the Canadian ambassador.Release Date: From 15th November

Directed by: Frank CoraciWritten by: Kevin James, Rock Reuben and Allan LoebProduced by: Todd Garner and Kevin JamesStarring: Salma Hayek, Kevin James, Henry Winkler, Joe Rogan, Bas Rutten and Shelly DesaiMovie Synopsis:A high school biology teacher looks to become a successful mixed-martial arts fighter in an effort to raise money to prevent extra-curricular activities from being axed at his cash-strapped school.Release Date: From 23rd November

St Nichols Playgroup - This non profit making organisation and registered charity that has long been supporting the local community. They now have spaces available in the new beautifully refurbished church hall. The spaces are as follows:-Monday and Friday for 2.5 to 5 year olds & on a Tuesday at 11.15am and 1.00pm for Toddlers Please contact Lynne on 07811450124 for more details.

Clydesdale Community Initiatives – Run gardening for health programme to help improve your mental health and well-being.Please visit them online at www.cciweb.org.uk to learn more about the group and to find out how you could take part. Or call them on 01555 664 211

Movies

ClubsEvents

Organised and free Fireworks DisplaysDunbeth Park, Coatbridge : Friday 4 November. 19:30Rawyards Leisure Centre, Airdrie : Friday 4 November: 19:30Broadwood Stadium Car Park, Cumbernauld : Friday 4 November : 19:30Strathclyde Country Park, Motherwell : Saturday 5 November: 19:30

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Home and GardenVISION

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Solution Corner

Brain TeaserYesterday, Today & Tomorrow

leave the hotel. The resort itself offered an excellent array of bars, restaurants, supermarkets, banks, clothing and gift shops. On a Monday head into the town’s market where a bargain is to be found on every stall, but you must be prepared to barter. I wished at the time I’d packed less so I had more room to bring stuff back. Its worth noting that the airport is very strict on excess baggage for your return flight so be aware!

You can book numerous excursions. Lazy days on a Turkish Gulet or a trip to the Dalyan Mud Baths, a sample of scuba diving or a day trip to the nearby Greek island of Rhodes bookings can be made at any of the many excursion stalls in the town.

We sampled a wide selection of foods and would recommend the “Sun Trap” restaurant in Hisaronu. By far, our favourite was the Oyster Restaurant on the beachfront of Oludeniz. Don’t let the name fool you, it offers a wide variety of both fish and meat dishes, all exceptional and at an incredible price when you take the restaurant’s exquisite boutique setting into the equation. Olzdeniz is only a 10 minute taxi ride from the hotel and is the gateway to the beautiful crystal clear waters of the Blue Lagoon that makes this area so famous. Its long sandy beach dotted with plenty of sun beds and umbrellas is the perfect place to laze away the day or people watch. You definitely can feel the heat rise as you descend into Oludeniz from Hisaronu as it is

“Turkey!”’ I spluttered when my husband announced his sister was getting married abroad – “But why there ?” The thought filled me with horror. The heat was going to be unbearable, I wailed at my poor husband, who did his best to put up with my outbursts. I’ve worked in the travel industry for years, travelled the globe writing about super sleek city breaks, 7 star Dubai hotels, snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef or flying in style after sampling the benefits of the luxurious airport lounges pre flight. Yes, and even I will admit it now - I’d become a travel snob without even realising it.

So there you have it; before I knew it we were booked to stay in the resort of Hisaronu in the Fethiya region. I was assured I would love it by my sister in law; “it’s very close to the Turquoise coastline that makes this area so popular’.” So 11 months later as the coach wound its way up the hairpin bends of the mountainous backdrop my fears seem to peak. Some of the hotels we passed didn’t look that great. At each stop I dreaded they would call our hotels name out (come on we’ve all been there!) I decided to concentrate on reading my son his book and save judgement for when I arrived.

As the coach swung to a stop, I was pleasantly surprised to be whisked into the reception of our accommodation at the Pine Valley Hotel. Now I started to pay attention, this was a 3 star hotel that looked like a 5 star. A swish reception area and a modern sleek hotel room surpassed any expectations I had in my head.

The rest of our stay was exceptional, the service and friendliness of the staff was second to none. The food was amazing. A fresh and wide variety that offered exceptional value when you compare it to some of Turkey’s close by Euro neighbours. We were quite simply bowled over by the choice of their magnaficent buffet and a la carte menu each night. It was no surprise to learn that the hotel enjoyed a staggering 80% of repeat bookings year on year. Now I could see why my family had chosen this slice of paradise to get married.

In addition the hotel boasted two swimming pools, water slides, a kid’s club and a Turkish Spa all on site - there was little or need to

located at the foot of the mountains. Some nights even the slight breeze across the sea didn’t give a reprieve. We often made an escape back to the hotel where we benefited from the mountain breeze in this beautiful pine clad area of Fethiya.

We enjoyed many a night at the hotel. From its BBQ nights, to its wide variety of evening events and the hysterical Bingo from Doctor Bob.

This resort is a resort that fits all, family friendly, couples, old or young - I quite simply defy anyone to visit and not get wrapped up in the Turkish hospitality that so many Scots enjoy year after year.

The Travel Nerd.

Travel Feature & competitionVISION

TURKEY TASTIC

All you need to do to be in with a chance to WIN your week at THE PINE VALLEY HOTEL, is read Travel Nerds article this month to find the answer to our question.What was the percentage of repeat bookings the Pine Valley Hotel experienced year on year?Email your answer and contact details to holiday@thevisionmarketing.comCompetition closes 15th November 2012, Winner will be picked at random from all entries. For full terms and conditions visit www.thevisionmarketing.comCheck out the Hotel at www.hotelpinevalley.comCheck reviews on TripadvisorFor stays in May or October 2013. Subject to availability at time of booking 1 week’s accommodation on a BB basis for 2 peopleNo flights, transfers or spending money included. The prize winner is responsible for booking directly with the hotel once the holiday has been won.

Pine Valley Hotel

WIN A FANTASTIC 1 WEEK HOLIDAY FOR 2 TO TURKEY

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