Wee Mag Issue 11

CONTENTS

2 | FALKIRK WEE MAG

Published by LMK Publications LtdHead Office: Unit 8/9, 3 Dundee Court,Falkirk FK1 1PWTel: 01324 622322 / 633662 / 0755 337 3499

[email protected]

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without writtenpermission is strictly prohibited. All prices correct at time of goingto press but are subject to change. LMK Publications Ltd cannotbe responsible for unsolicited material. The views and opinions bycontributors in this magazine may not represent the views of thepublishers. LMK Publications Ltd takes no responsibility for claimsmade by advertisements in this publication.

MANAGING DIRECTOR: Kelly WilsonDISTRIBUTION and FINANCE DIRECTOR: Sandy SteeleADVERTISING SALES: Nanette Muirhead, Fiona MenziesSALES SUPPORT: Claire ParkPRODUCTION ASSISTANT: Christina O’Brien

SALES ENQUIRIES: Tel: 01324 622322 / 0755 337 3499GENERAL ENQUIRIES TO:LMK Publications Ltd, Unit 8/9, 3 Dundee Court, Falkirk FK1 1PWWEBSITE: www.lmkpublications.comEMAIL: [email protected]

WEE MAGFALKIRK

CONTENTS04 COMMUNITY NEWS

What’s going on in our community

07 FALKIRK’S FINESTSome of Falkirk’s finest businesses

10 WHEREISDUNDEECOURT?Feature on a few businesses in this area

15 BO’NESS UNITED FCFeature congratulating BUFC on their success

21 WEDDING FEATUREIdeas for planning your wedding

26 ASK THE EXPERTSFeature on Experts in the Falkirk area

28 ARMY CADETSHow you can join the Army Cadets

30 WEETEENS2 pages of fun for the teenagers

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ADVERTISING

FALKIRK WEE MAG | 3

4 | FALKIRK WEE MAG

CHARITY EVENT

FALKIRK WEE MAG | 5

Local charity “So precious” are organising aClothing and Knitting Drive in the Falkirk andDistrict Guide Hall, Pleasance, Falkirk, FK1 1BGon 30th July 2011. The purpose of the day is toprovide a location for people to drop in clothesthat they wish to donate to the Neonatal andMaternity Unit. It is also hoped that some knitterswill come along on the day and run off a few hatsfor the unit. This is an opportunity for people tofind out more about So Precious and anopportunity to meet some of the team on the day.There will be stalls providing a number of localtraders with the opportunity to show off theirtalents and drum up some business. Tea andcoffee will be available, with the opportunity topurchase some home baking and a raffle will alsobe taking place on the day with items donatedfrom local high street and Internet businesses.

So Precious is a charity founded by Mrs AlisonKilgour in February of this year. Co-Trustees areLorna Strachan, Mark Blue, David Kilgour, FionaMcKenzie.

The aim of So Precious is to raise awareness ofthe services provided by Forth Valley Neonataland Maternity Units, raise funds to enhance theservices provided by Forth Valley Neonatal andMaternity units in excess of that which can bereasonably be expected as ‘standard’ from theNHS and provide support to the users of Forth

Valley Neonatal and Maternity units. Lorna and Mark are very proud to be part of a

Charity which can provide support to otherfamilies who find themselves having their babycared for in the Neonatal Unit as they did whentheir daughter Louise was admitted at only a dayold with a life threatening infection.

Louise Elizabeth Margaret Blue was born on the25th March 2010 by emergency caesareansection at Stirling Royal Infirmary and thefollowing evening every parents worst nightmarebegan. The couples daughter was very ill andwas initially rushed to Yorkhill with a suspectedtwisted bowel. She was returned to her parentsthe following morning but with the diagnosis of avery serious infection which would require to betreated with a course of double strengthantibiotics. Mark and Lorna can never thank thestaff enough for their support, encouragementand very wise words over the days and nightsthat they sat by her watching her grow stronger.

Further information on this group can be foundat from [email protected]

So Precious get their knitting needles out

6 | FALKIRK WEE MAG

Start from the Heart is a brand new venture forCalor, and it is hoped that this will continue tobe an annual event. This year, LynseyMathieson had the job of finding a suitableorganization who would benefit from thisdonation.

Lynsey goes for a walk on her lunch breakaround the streets of Grangemouth, and whilstout and about she thought that the MoraySchool could be a good place to start. Afterspeaking with the Head Teacher, a PupilCouncil meeting was then called to decidewhat areas they would like to spend the moneyon. The school children decided that newpieces of agility equipment would be good fortheir playground.

The teamfrom Calorthenorganizedfor thewoodenagilityequipmentto bepurchased,which alsoincludedsomeToadstoolsfor theyoungerchildren’sarea of theplayground.They alsothought thatpainting thesmall wallwhich runsaround the

school would brighten up the play area and bea more fun place to use this new equipment.

Although the budget was relatively small,Calor supplied all of this plus large Planterswhich the children can use to grown their ownplants. Donaldson’s of Alloa were kind enoughto build these ensuring they are safe for aplayground, and Horticultural Services donatedenough soil to fill these planters.

The play equipment was purchased fromCaledonian Play.

Moray School, like many other schools, relyon lots of fundraising to assist with thepurchasing of new equipment and weretherefore most grateful to Calor for theirgenerous donation and help in not onlysupplying, but actually fitting and painting toget this playground looking great for the newterm. Last year, the local school lost one oftheir teachers, Lewis Conachy, to pancreaticcancer, and his family have donated sums ofmoney to the school to help in various projectsthey have undertaken.

CALOR LAUNCH “STARTFROM THE HEART” INITIATIVE

COMMUNITY NEWS

A team from Calor Gas in Grangemouth took part in a one-week initiative set up by thecompany to provide local organisations with a charitable donation which would helpthem provide a better service to not only themselves and their members, but to thelocal community.

FALKIRK’S FINEST

FALKIRK WEE MAG | 7

Anderson TimberDunmore Mill, Moss Road,Dunmore by Airth FK2 8RY

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Our wee town has a lot to offer! This issue we introduce you to some ofthe finest businesses in the local area

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STRANGE SIGHTINGS IN STENHOUSEMUIR?

This unusual picture of the moon hiding behind a cloud was taking from behind McLachlan Streetin Stenhousemuir earlier this year by Helen Dickinson. It certainly looks like the village is beinginvaded by something from another planet!!

Do you have any unusual pics you may have taken and just left them on your memory stick?Why not email them into the Wee Mag Falkirk and the best ones will be published.

Email: [email protected] — please include your name, where you live and where your picwas taken.

BUSINESS TIPS

FALKIRK WEE MAG | 9

HAVE YOU BRANDED YOUR BUSINESSLook anywhere online or in the supermarket or evenglance around any high street and it won’t take long foryour eyes to fall upon a recognisable image or productbrand.

You know it’s not by pure chance that it’s in such anoptimum position and that the clever marketers havepainstakingly placed it there to grab your attention.Granted, if you’re looking at a billboard on a busythoroughfare, the advertising glaring down at you islikely to have cost thousands of pounds to develop andbecome familiar to you.

The problem is that small business owners are in thehabit of relating a strong brand and marketing strategyto high cost, but this need not be the case at all. Itseems that this message just isn’t getting through tosmall and medium-sized businesses. Small businessesare not realising the importance of implementing brandvalues and how a lack of strategic marketing has adirect impact on business performance and profitmargins. Many small firms are not acknowledging thatbranding – creating awareness of exactly what yourbusiness does and how it does it – is just as vital asrecruiting employees, attracting investors and chasingsales.

This can be easily and cost effectively remediedusing companies to design literature, create an emaillist, send out a mailing to potential customers andmanage responses, or by attending a course whichoffers training in this area. This is a simple way to buildbrand awareness without a large cost outlay.”

To create your brand, you need to think about the

personality of your business. Define what yourcompany is like and how you want it to be perceived.To do this, think about who your customers andemployees are, what it is you sell and how you sell yourproducts. What is it that makes your service or yourproduct desirable to the customer? Why should theychoose to come to you instead of your competitors?

Taking the time to figure out exactly what yourbusiness stands for, what your identity is and whichcustomers you target will ensure that your marketingefforts become much more focused. It enables you tocommunicate to your customers a strong, consistentvision of what you do and the way you do it.

Once you’ve decided on your brand and the imageyou’re going to portray in the public eye, you need tostart thinking about brand power. To ensure yourbusiness becomes an established brand, you must fulfilthe message you are sending to your customersbecause they will not come back if you don’t keep yourpromises. For example, if you say that customers willget more for less but they don’t see too much evidenceof this, they’ll lose faith in the brand and will be unlikelyto remain loyal customers.

Branding doesn’t have to cost the earth but tends tofall down the small business “to do” list as owners andmanagers relate a strong brand and marketing strategyto high cost and resources.

However, implementing a brand strategy does notneed to be costly. One of the most effective yet simpleways to have a strong brand presence is through yourwebsite.

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LOCAL AREA FEATURE

10 | FALKIRK WEE MAG

DUNDEE COURT BUSINESSES OFFER AWEALTH OF EXPERIENCE AND TALENTA young dynamic company called LMK Publications Ltd have recently moved intopremises in Dundee Court, Falkirk, adding to the quality businesses already in thisarea of the town. They offer a full range of print, design and advertising services ataffordable costs for local businesses and organisations.

You may know LMK better as the owners of theWee Mag Falkirk — probably the best WeeMag in Falkirk!

Established nearly five years, LMK haveslowly seen their business grow from justproducing a monthly bowling magazine to nowproducing three regular magazines as well asa huge range of other programmes, brochuresand specialised publications.

Moving in the new premises has allowed thebusiness to expand, and the small companyare now proud to boast six dedicatedmembers of their growing team, as well around25 “helpers” around the country who help todistribute the magazines.

Due to the increase in staff, LMK are nowable to offer a full range of print, design andadvertising services to businesses in the local

area and beyond.Whether you are a new business, or a long

established company, LMK can help you tokeep your name out there by offering fantasticrates for advertising, or by producing acompany magazine or brochure — with pricesyou will be amazed by! You could even have amagazine produced that won’t cost you apenny! If you want to know more about thisgive the team a call for more details.

Other popular services we offer are pop-upbanner design and print — perfect for thoseexhibitions, indoor and outdoor signage,magnetic car stickers and the ever neededbusiness cards, compliments slips, postersand banners.

The LMK team are always on hand to help,or visit if required, so give them a call today.

FALKIRK WEE MAG | 11

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Newlook Interiors was established in 1987 offering all types offlooring and soft furnishings, wallpapers exclusive fabricsblinds, poles. At a glance, your rooms tell a lot about you andyour family: how you live, the types of things you love to havearound, your very attitude toward your home

And because good decorating matters so much, we want tomake it easier than ever to achieve, whether you need acushion or are in search of a whole new scheme. Just choosethe things you love and they will help you create rooms thatexpress your unique taste and style. Then bring them homethe quick and foolproof way with Newlook Interior Design.

We are a specialist interior design retailer of inspirationalinterior finishes. Our products are carefully researched withinthe market for their style, cutting edge innovation and mostimportantly, quality of manufacture.

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Cutsahead Hair and Beauty are a family business establishedin 1989. Owned by Michelle Rule, she and fellow managerLee Bell offer a professional service to both ladies and gents,and cater for all ages (including children) making Cutsahead avery comfortable place to have your hair or beauty done.

They pride themselves in the quality products they offer, aswell as the affordable prices — making them very competitivefor a High Street salon.

Lee and Michelle continue to train and keep themselvesup-to-date with the latest fashion trends and services ensuringthat you will always receive the very best service and advice.

With a seperate beauty room, you can have your selectionof waxing, nails, make-up and spray tans all done privately bya professional who will go that extra mile to make you feelspecial and beautiful!

COMMUNITY NEWS


MARCHING TO SUCCESS?Comedian Bruce Devlin travels to Bo’ness to take on the ultimate challenge — to learnand play the accordian in a week and then march with the Forth Bridges MarchingAccordion Band in the Linlithgow Marches

Scotland’s marching bands arewell known for their skilfulaccordion players, but just howdifficult is it to play theaccordion? Would it be possibleto learn it well enough to playwith an experienced marchingband - in just one week?

In TV scenes not dissimilar toChannel 4’s ‘Faking It’,comedian Bruce Devlin travelledto Bo’ness to rehearse withForth Bridges accordionmarching band. As the band’snewest member, Devlinexplained: “Everyone that knowsme knows that I love nothingbetter than marching and music.With that in mind, I’m here tojoin the Forth Bridges accordionband to rehearse to actually bein a march.”

Having never before playedthe accordion, and with ForthBridges getting ready for a bigperformance at the local fair inLinlithgow at the end of the week, Devlin foundhimself under a lot of pressure to succeed.

Forth Bridges players gave him some usefultips, and then, ever the enthusiast, Bruce took hisaccordion home and kept a video diary of hisprogress throughout the week. However, it quicklybecame apparent that the task ahead would beno easy feat.

Still, he persevered with the song he had beenasked to learn, and by the end of the week hishard work had paid off and Bruce was kitted outwith the official Forth Bridges band uniform in

preparation for the big day ahead. That day hefaced the cheering crowds of Linlithgow andmarched and played with confidence - what aremarkable feat! His efforts and the end resultwere broadcast on The Hour programme on STV

on 28th June, but to see for yourself visit:http://programmes.stv.tv/the-hour/

The band are happy to provide beginners withlessons and an instrument so why not call themon 07834 903858, email them [email protected], or visit their websiteat http://forthbridgesaccordionband.webs.com?

Clockwise from above: Bruce gets some tips from anexpert; on the big day; and practicing at home in his video diary

COMMUNITY NEWS


� Bo’ness United Boys FootballClub are looking for players aged2000 and 2001 for trials.They are also looking for Coaches to trainthe 2002 team. Anyone intrested in beinga coach will have to under go or have acurrent disclosure form.The team trainin every Monday andThursday evening from 6pm for a 6.15pmstart until 7.30pm.Please email: [email protected] more details.

� PRIZE BINGO: Wednesday 27thJuly at Camelon Juniors Club PAPYRUS - Prevention of Young Suicidein memory of Steven Monument who died9 years ago due to suicide and to raiseawareness. The charity gives help,support and information for young peoplewho may be at risk of harmingthemselves and for families, friends andprofessionals.

Strathcarron Hospice

It's A KnockoutTulliallan Police College on 28th August 2011

Strathcarron are delighted to announce that they areonce again bringing Graham Fisher`s International`It`s a Knockout` competition to the Scottish PoliceCollege, Tulliallan on Sunday 28th August for anotherday of fun, in this their 30th Anniversary year.Teams of 8 people (over 16 years of age please) areinvited to join us at this fabulously fun event.Think Fun, Foam, Giant Inflatables, and a BBQ, andyou will be picturing what`s in store for you at thishighly entertaining day. Bring along your colleagues,friends and family to support and watch you andyour team negotiate the brilliant games. Professional presenters will keep you and yoursupporters up to date with their amusing runningcommentaries throughout the competitions, and theArena Crew will be on hand to support you and yourteam as you endeavour to complete the gamescircuit. It takes approx. 2 hours to complete thecourse, and at the moment, you can choose one ofthe 3 slots available throughout the day. Pleasephone the fundraising office in the first instance tosecure these.

COMMUNITY NEWS


BAINSFORD PRIMARY SCHOOLTRIUMPH IN JUBILEE LOTTERY

The Jubilee People’s Millions is a competition runby the Big Lottery Fund in partnership with ITVand with the approval of Buckingham Palace.

It was run on STV Central evening news fromMonday to Wednesday and each night two localgroups compete to win a Lottery grant of up to£60,000 for a community project which will openin 2012, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee year. Thepublic vote by phone to decide the winner.

On STV evening news Bainsford Primary SchoolParent Council fought off stiff competition,receiving the most votes for its Bainsford's BackGarden project and a cash prize of £60,000.

The group will create a nature trail which will beused as an outdoor classroom for the children aswell as a welcoming space for young adults withadditional support needs from the neighbouringday centre, older people from the nearbysheltered housing complex and the widercommunity.

There are a total of four Lottery grants up forgrabs in the STV Central region – one grant eachnight and a bonus grant, awarded on Thursday,

for the runner up withthe most votes. Thegroups taking part in thecompetition were shortlistedfrom hundreds of entries,and have beencampaigning in theircommunities for the lastthree weeks to gainsupport from local people.

Telephone voting numbersare made available each day inThe Daily Mirror and online from 9am each day atwww.jubileepeoplesmillions.org.uk with votinglines opening at 9am and closing at midnight.

Jackie Killeen, Director, Big Lottery FundScotland, said: “This is a great result for thepeople of Bainsford in Falkirk and just goes toshow what groups can achieve when they havethe support of their community behind them.We've had some exceptional winners in previousyears and this year is following that strongtradition. By picking up the phone you really will

be improving livesand making a bigdifference to yourlocal community.”

GordonMacmillan, Head ofNews at STV, said:"The People'sMillions is a greatopportunity for STVviewers to influencewhere Lotterymoney should bespent, and get achance to supportsome of the manyfantastic communitygroups acrossScotland. Manycongratulations toBainsford PrimarySchool for a welldeserved win.”

Bainsford Primary School Parent Council in Falkirk are having aright royal knees up this summer after the public voted themwinners of a £60,000 Big Lottery Fund grant in a specialcompetition to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, which wasaired on STV Central.

BO’NESS UNITED FEATURE


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Bo’ness United FC have become the first clubto retain the East Region Super League title tocap a fantastic season which saw them retainthe league crown, reach the semi-final of theScottish Junior Cup, and the final of the Fifeand Lothians Cup as well as reaching the thirdround of the senior Scottish Cup.

Newtown Park was party central as Bo'nessUnited needed only a point against Tayport totake the title, and claim the Superleague forthe second consecutive season.

Here we bring you some of the businesseswho wish to congratulate the club, as well asbit of the history you may not have known.



The 2009/2010 season was as a great one forBo’ness United but season just finished will beone that many won’t forget.

The BUs retained the East Region SuperLeague but, although they didn't win any othersilverware, they went further than the previousyear in all the cup competitions.

There was also the added glamour of playingthree games in the Scottish Cup, the highlightbeing the victory over Scottish Football Leagueside Queen's Park at Newtown Park.

Although there were new faces this yearcompared to last, not all of the players comingin were successful resulting in some shortstays at the club. Over the whole of the seasontwenty one players came to Newton Park witheighteen players going the other way.

Bo’ness quest to retain the Super League didnot get off to a great start with a home defeatagainst Bathgate. The BUs lost on penalties atCamelon in the semi final of the League Cup,

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but victories against Lochee United, Camelonand Musselburgh got the league campaignback on track.

Bo'ness played 22 cup games over theseason, a total that was to prove significantlater on. They were drawn to play first roundties in both the Scottish Junior and Fife andLothians Cups and combined with their firstever Scottish Cup venture, the BUs werequickly left behind in the Super League race.

The club made history on the last Saturday inSeptember when they travelled to Selkirk fortheir Scottish Cup debut. Despite goingbehind, Bo'ness scored six goals to make anearly impact in the competition. Home victoriesagainst Dundee Violet and Kirkcaldy YM in theScottish Junior Cup and Fife and Lothians Cuprespectively sandwiched a difficult leaguedraw at Bonnyrigg.

Then came the day that will go down inhistory at Newtown Park when Queen's Parkvisited for round two of the Scottish Cup.Bo'ness lost the first goal but strikes by DerekFleming and Paul Shields made it a great dayfor the BUs who made the headlines on theback pages of the Sunday papers. Theatmosphere at Newtown Park was incredibleand it was a proud day for everyoneassociated with Bo'ness United.



Bo'ness then defeated Kinnoull in round 2 ofthe Scottish Junior Cup and disposed ofBlairgowrie in the East of Scotland Cup. Thenext round of the Scottish Cup saw BuckieThistle visit Newtown Park and it was to be theend of the journey for Bo'ness as the HighlandLeague Champions were victorious.

Bo'ness won through to the final of the Fifeand Lothian's Cup courtesy of a penalty shootout at Penicuik. Linlithgow had alreadyprogressed to the final.

Decision day arrived and, apart from thecompeting sides, the fate of two other teamshinged on this one game. If Bo'ness slippedup, Hill of Beath would win the League andCamelon would be relegated. Two first halfgoals from Nicky Walker put Bo'ness in thefront and despite Tayport scoring, it was notenough for the Fifers. Bo'ness United wereonce again Super League Champions and thefirst side to win the Title two years insuccession.

The final game saw Bo'ness narrowly losethe Fife and Lothians final at Linlithgow andalthough it was a disappointing way to end theseason the BUs could look back with a realsense of achievement.

� Everyone at the Wee Mag Falkirk wouldlike to congratulate all involved at Bo’nessUnited and wish them every success for thenew season.

MONEY MATTERS


At this time of year we are all planning ourholidays and getting into shape for the beach.However, now is also the right time to give yourfinances a workout.

It is easy to take our eye of our finances and letour care free holiday mood carry over into everyaspect of our life. Look at your money situationand see what can be done to improve it so youcan enjoy even more cocktails on the beach.

The first thing to do is a have a good look at allthe direct debit and standing orders paid fromyour bank account. It is amazing how manytimes we carry on paying of things we no longerneed, for example mobile insurance for last yearsphone.

Are you getting the best deal you can? Many ofus renew our insurances, mortgages, gas,electricity and phone contracts without shoppingaround. Never accept your renewal withoutcomparing different providers to make sure youare getting the best possible deal. Remember tohaggle – don’t be embarrassed. You will beamazed what you can save!

Get hold of a copy of your credit report - thisshows all your credit agreements and how wellyou have been paying them. There arecompanies where you can pay online for free for

a trial period but remember to cancel thesubscription. You can also get your credit reportfrom Experian and Equifax for £2. Ensure all theinformation held about you is correct and up todate. If you have any information which isincorrect you should contact the credit referenceagencies, as this could make a big difference toany loan, credit card or mortgage interest rateyou are offered.

Now for the bit we all find scary: add up what iscoming in and going out. If you find you arerelying on credit cards or overdraft to pay yourbills now is the time to get help.

Many people who are in debt put off gettingadvice due to embarrassment. IndependentDebt Advice offer a personal service where youcan be ensured to free, friendly and honestadvice at all times.

You may worry about neighbours or workcolleagues finding out and your name appearingin the paper. If so, don’t. This no longer happens(unless you are so pleased about our service youdecide to tell everyone!). We even come to youso you don’t have to enter an office with debtadvice above the door.

The sooner you get help the easier it will be foryour health, family life and stress levels.

TIME TO GIVE YOUR MONEY A SUMMER WORKOUT

LIFESTYLE


WHY GROWING OLD IS GREAT!

As one of the longest servingagony aunts it should come as nosurprise to find Virginia, 65,dispensing advice to other babyboomers about getting the mostout of their twilight years.

In her latest book, The VirginiaMonologues: Twenty Reasons WhyGrowing Old Is Great, she givesthe lie to virtually all negativethoughts about the ageingprocess, including death itself.

“I see death as something ratherwonderful to look forward to,” shewrites. “I see it as a merciful relieffrom all life’s anxieties andtroubles. The idea of coming backagain, even as a chirpy robin letalone a human being, fills me withhorror.”

But the lion’s share of Virginia’sbook is devoted to thinking positively, and wherepossible humorously, about the mixed blessing ofmoving from middle to old age.

Five reasons to be cheerfulWithin minutes of our meeting she has come upwith five reasons to be cheerful:1. You have more confidence than you did whenyou were younger.2. You can stand out from the crowd if you put a bitof effort into looking good and choosing yourclothes carefully.3. The lessening of the sex drive is a bonus formost of us.4. You can discuss your ailments openly with yourfriends in the certain knowledge they will want todiscuss theirs.5. There is a lot of anxiety about being on your own,but a lot of benefits as well.Living alone for more than a decade, Virginia saysshe is not sure she could cope with being withsomebody any more. “I’ve got used to being on myown,” she says. “I do miss being with somebodybut I’m not a great compromiser.”In the book she advises ageing singles, widowsand divorcees to revel in their singularity: “If there isnobody else to make you feel special, you’ll have todo it yourself.”

Enjoy yourselfAmong other things, she recommends a daily soakin a hot bath, with bath oil, or a weekly massage ifyou can afford it. She also lists half a dozen plusfactors to being alone, including not having towrestle your partner for the remote control, not

having to suffer anyone’sunscheduled mood swings, nothaving to apologise for beinglate home and, if you’re awoman, not having to shaveyour legs.

Virginia believes one of thegreatest boons of ageing is thearrival of confidence you neverhad as a younger person. Youcan turn down invitations tosocial occasions with theflimsiest of excuses; you findyourself smiling at strangers inthe street; you can lie withimpunity in order to get theattention of shop assistants,waiters and disinterestedtroubleshooters on the end of atelephone line.

Coping with isolationThe business of how older people interact withstrangers is a recurring theme in the book,especially as it relates to loneliness and unlookedfor solitude.

“It’s all too easy, when being alone, to start to feelthat you are just a non-person, a glass of waterpoured into another glass of water. Without otherpeople, it’s easy in no more than a few hours, toimagine yourself as just a blob of nothingness. Asmall bit of conversation can usually put thingsright.”

Another antidote to isolation, she says, is theimpetus to keep yourself looking good.

“Some women just seem to have given up beingwomen completely,” she says. “They look just likelumps on legs. With the minimum of effort you canstand out as some kind of ancient Marlene Dietrichor Tina Turner. It just takes a bit of flair and courage.A good-looking oldie can have the time or his or herlife.

“Looking good not only lifts your own spirits, butalso other people’s as they see you walking downthe street. In my book, looking one’s best is actuallya kind of good manners.”

Virginia is all for ageing naturally as well asgracefully. She has zero tolerance for the Peter Pansyndrome, especially prevalent in the male of thespecies. “People who keep pretending to be youngare just pathetic specimens, the sort of folk whodespise facelifts but are, by their actions, chasing alost youth.

“I don’t want to be young any more. It’s so boring.I don’t want to bicycle across Mongolia or gobungee-jumping. I like the fact that my love affairwith life is settling into comfortablecompanionability.”

The message from Virginia Ironside is loud and clear – stop grumbling about gettingold and start making the most of it.

WEDDING FEATURE


“All Roads Lead To The... Beancross”

Everything You Need To Make Your Wedding Day Complete• Licensed for civil ceremonies • Packages to suit all needs• 14 luxury guest bedrooms • A fabulous new Bridal Suite• Fully refurbished restaurants • Friendly professional service

Beancross Polmont:

01324 718333www.thebeancross.co.uk

At Beancross, your wedding will be the only one on the day and you can beassured we will make it the day you have dreamed of. From the minute youarrive till the last dance at your reception, everything will be taken care of,so you can relax and enjoy the most special day of your life.

Bespoke wedding packages to suit all budgets

Where Your Wedding Day Dreams Come True

Well the Wedding Season is upon us, andthe sun is shining most of the time for ourgorgeous wedding parties. If you arethinking of planning your most special day,why not consider some of the business inthis feature? Being locally based andExperts in their field – we are sure you willbe delighted with the advice and help given.

This is the most exciting day of your life, you wantto have your very own personalised day and have theday of your dreams for yourself and partner.Whether it is a small intimate ceremony, a Weddingon some beautiful Island surrounded in the beautifulgreenery and the sound of the lapping waves, or ahuge White Wedding you are sure to find someexcellent services on these pages to help create theday of your dreams.. Please mention WEE MAGwhen responding to any adverts! And we would loveto see your Wedding photos, so feel free to emailyour snaps and we will get them into the WEE MAG!

Enjoy, relax and remember the whole day!! You willbe amazed just how quickly the day goes! Have funand celebrate with your nearest and dearest.

WEDDING FEATURE


The Grooms Best ManIt’s so funny what a lot of laughs

they have both shared,As close as brothers and best friends

for lots of years,Gathering and sharing memoriesand celebrating with a few beers,

the Groom and Best Manside by side at the top table,

Their mothers watchingwith silent happy tears,

Their little boys all grown upenjoying their lives still as one,

Reminiscing the moments of themgrowing and all they have done,Best Man not a truer title given,

The Grooms rock since he was only seven,Now sitting as grown mencelebrating this special day,

Of true love between the groomand his beautiful bride,

Best friends sitting enjoyingthis moment side by side.

by Nanette Muirhead


WEDDING FEATURE

Enjoy a white bright SMILEfor your wedding!

Treatments carried out by a qualified Dental Nurse whitening technician

••SAFE, EFFECTIVE and PAINFREE••GROUP DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE FOR YOUR WEDDINGPARTY: GROOM and BRIDESMAIDS ONLY £99 each

BRIDE’S TREATMENT IS FREE!! (normally £197 each)RESULTS UP TO 8 SHADES LIGHTER

Tel: 07746 916 012

CHARITY NEWS


People across the UK - and sometimesfurther afield - are asked to hold a coffeemorning, where donations on the day aremade to Macmillan.

Last year 43,000 people registered to hold acoffee morning, raising over £8 million.

This year they want to raise even more moneyto help change the lives of people affected bycancer. Find out about how Macmillan helps.

How did it start? The event started in 1990, when a localfundraising committee decided to hold a coffeemorning where people came along to meet andmingle - as they might ordinarily do - but donatethe cost of their coffee to Macmillan in theprocess.

The idea seemed such a simple, yet effective,one that they suggested the model be taken upnationally. The first National World’s BiggestCoffee Morning was in 1991, when 2,600 peopleregistered to hold coffee mornings across thecountry. Since then it has raised over £60 millionin total for Macmillan Cancer Support.

My how you’ve grown... Over the years, the World’s Biggest CoffeeMorning has grown to include many differenttypes of event - from a traditional coffee morningwith cake and conversation, to a pub quiz in theevening. There have also been several recordattempts, including the Highest Coffee Morning(on a jet fighter in 2004), the Most Distant CoffeeMorning (Antarctica in 2002) and the World’sDeepest Coffee Morning (down Poldark Mine,Cornwall in 2002).

It’s about more than just coffee...It is hoped the supporters have fun, whether it'sa traditional coffee morning at home, work orschool, or something different altogether – agarden party, pub quiz, or karaoke night - themain thing is getting together with friends andknowing that your collective efforts are making ahuge difference to people affected by cancer. Whatever you do, we hope you'll get togetherwith friends, family and colleagues onFriday 30th September and raise some money(and a smile) for people affected by cancer.

WHAT IS THE WORLD’S BIGGEST COFFEE MORNING?

FOR THE MIND, BODY AND SPIRIT

THE DE-STRESS EXPERTS

•Promotes better sleep•Relieves tension

•Improves and uplifts mood•Detoxifies the body

•Encourages self healing

Five good reasons to have a massage:

The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning is Macmillan Cancer Support’s biggestfundraising event.

CHARITY NEWS


ASK THE EXPERTS FEATURE


Benefits include:• improves muscle tone and definition• achieves overall muscle conditioning• aids weight loss• improves cardiac fitness, co-ordination, flexibility

and motor skills

Best of all it improves confidence in a fun and safeenvironment - better than the gym any day!

Beginners, Intermediate and Advancedclasses available

£8 per session + discounts available for thosedoing multiple sessions per week

Offering Pole Fitnessclasses:• in Falkirk (Mon - Wed: 6, 7, 8,and 9pm)• in Stirling University(Tues: 5, 6, 7pm)

Wolanski’s: poles apartfrom other fitness regimes

Fitness instructor Miriam founded Wolanski’sPole Fitness in 2007. People of all ages, shapesand sizes attend her classes, which are open toboth males and females (with same sex or mixedclasses being optional).

The Pole Fitness classes are designed to helpwith a multitude of fitness aspects and aredesigned to allow participants to work at theirown pace, and cater for all, from the completenovice to the super-advanced. Furthermore, theycan be tailored to suit the individual's needs.

The pole can be used for aerobic workouts;circuit training, muscle conditioning or simply tolearn a new skill. For an even harder workout thepoles can be used on either a static or spinningmode - alternating the intensity of your exercisesession.

Members attend in gymwear only - ie trainers;jogging bottoms, shorts, t-shirts etc. Classes canbe booked via Face Book, Email or telephone.

Wolanski's Pole Fitness has the backing of thePrince's Scottish Youth Business Trust andStirling University's Business and Enterpriseprogramme.

ASK EXPERTSThere are some excellent businesses based in and around the Falkirk area, and thisissue we want to share some of these who want to share their expertise with you.Please remember to mention the Wee Mag Falkirk if you decide to call any of them....

the

ASK THE EXPERTS FEATURE


COMMUNITY NEWS


GET INVOLVED WITH THE ARMY CADETSWith almost 47,000 cadets (aged 12-18) and8,500 adult volunteers the Army Cadet Force isone of the UK’s largest voluntary youthorganisations. This year we are celebrating 150years of fun, excitement and positiveopportunities for young people.

The ACF helps young people between the agesof 12 and 18 develop both personally andphysically by providing a range of opportunities,challenges and activities.

“To Inspire to Achieve”The Army Cadet Force is a national voluntary

youth organization. It is sponsored by the Armyand provides challenging military, adventurousand community activities. Its aim is to inspireyoung people to achieve success in life with aspirit of service to the Queen, their Country andtheir local community, and to develop in them thequalities of a good citizen.

ProductsThe ACF develops young people physically and

mentally, improving self-confidence, teamwork,friendship and leadership. It welcomes cadets ofall abilities and backgrounds that are able toaccess the majority of its activities. It also aims todevelop a sense of community in its cadets.

The ACF provides a wide diversity of fun,exciting and adventurous opportunities and it is agateway to recognised vocational qualificationsfrom the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme toBTEC First Diplomas which can help in workingand school life.

• We welcome cadets of all abilities andbackgrounds that are able to access the majorityof our activities. We also aim to develop a senseof community in our cadets.

• We welcome girls and boys from the age of 12(must be in year 8 at school), of all abilities andbackgrounds.

• We provide a broad range of largely free, fun,exciting and challenging, educational andadventurous opportunities.

• We are a gateway to recognised vocationalqualifications from the Duke of Edinburgh AwardScheme to BTEC First Diplomas which can helpin working and school life.

• The Army Cadet Force actively wants itscadets to succeed. All cadets start by learningthe basics before moving on to the ACF StarCadet Awards - starting at one star and movingall the way through to four. Achieve that andcadets can be put forward for an assessmentcourse to be recognised as a Master Cadet.

• As cadets progress through each stage they'lllearn more and more advanced techniques in allsubjects. They'll also be given a training rolewhere they can develop their own teachingtechniques by teaching the younger or lessexperienced cadets in their detachment.

Become an Adult VolunteerCentral to the ACF are its 8,500 adult volunteers -enthusiastic and committed people who inspireyoungsters to achieve their goals, whether it'slearning how to canoe, reaching the next level ofthe Duke of Edinburgh's Award, or learning howto look after themselves at annual camp.

• You can help - we need the continuingsupport of the ACF in the local community.

• Adult volunteers come in all shapes and sizes,from all walks of life and have all sorts of skillsand experience. Whatever your day job, whetheras a manager or a mother, a former soldier or afactory supervisor, an engineer or an Englishteacher, it's likely you will have somethingvaluable to contribute. We couldn't deliver suchan exciting array of opportunities without a widevariety of individuals to help us.

• We provide a structured approach todeveloping young people, working closely withthe Local Education Authority, police and otheryouth initiatives.

COMMUNITY NEWS


WANTED FORRECYCLING

Used Clothing,Get Cash

We pay 40p per kg collected!

Bag them, phone for collection,GET CASH

Tel.or Txt 0754 802 3581*we do not take quilts, pillows, dirty or wet clothing

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GRANGEMOUTH DETACHMENT LOSE ONE OFTHEIR FAVOURITE AND MOST LOVED CADETSMichael Martin joined GrangemouthCadet Detachment in September2007. When he joined, DetachmentCommander Capt John Baff knewvery little about autism, but waswilling to give him a chance to see ifhe would like the Army Cadets, asthey a youth organisation and arethere to help and encourage youngpeople.

Michael took to the training andchallenges with determination anddrive. He has participated inmarching in four Grangemouth GalaDays, three Armistice Parades andtwo Forces Day Parades.

It has been a great learning curve

for the Adults and Cadets as Michaelviews things from a differentperspective. Capt John Baff said:“Michael has brought somethingspecial to Falkirk company and willbe greatly missed. We wish him wellfor the future.”

The Army Cadets are alwayslooking for young adults aged 18years and over to become Instructorsto train Cadets aged 13 to 18 yearsold. If you would like a challenge thencome along to GrangemouthDetachment on Mondays andThursdays from 7-9pm at the TACentre, Central Avenue,Grangemouth.

Laura Cleland receives her awardfrom Colonel Elliot

Michael Martin receives his leavinggift from Colonel Elliot

Michael joined the Army Cadets in 2007. It was actually his younger brother I had taken down to join, but when we arrived Michaelsaid he wanted to join too. Michael has autism and I said he wouldn’t be able to join. Captain Baff said ‘Why not?’ I told him aboutMichael’s autism and he said, ‘Well, we won’t know unless we try!’ The rest is history - we never looked back. Michael has come onin leaps and bounds. He was accepted by all of the other cadets as one of them, and Captain Baff has put a lot of time and effort intohis training. Michael has achieved many certificates including basic first aid, basic shooting, field craft, map and compass, and hashis 1st star. Michael loves going to the cadets and it is with a heavy heart that he will be leaving now. We are eternally grateful to allthe cadets, Sergeant Johnston, and especially Captain Baff for leeting Michael be one of the squad. You have been a huge part of hislife and we will never forget it. Best wishes to everyone from Alex and Julie Martin

“”

� Vaseline isyour bestfriend Vaselineis a great,cheap eyemakeup remover. It's also great

for fixing chapped, scaly lips.

Slather on abunch ofVaseline,then usea tooth-brush tomassagelips. Wipethe excess offon a tissue. Your lips will be

smooth and soft. � Don't line the inside of your

eyes It will make your eyes

appear smaller. Instead, line just

at the lash line. Also, an obvious

line doesn't look natural smudge

the line just a bit.

What’s the correct way to wash your hair?

A £10GIFT VOUCHER

FOR HMV

Most of us think wehave this all down pat,but for all we know, wemight be wrong. Afterall, we have beenwashing our hair all ourlives. How could we gowrong with somethinglike washing our hair?So, what is the right wayof washing the hair? The first thing youshould do is to combthe tangles out of thehair before you wet it sothe hair would washeasily and the tangleswould not worsen. And then, wet yourhair thoroughly under the shower. Youcan use either warm or cold water ifyou like, but for best results, you canwet your hair with warm water to openthe scale-like cuticles of the hair andwash all the oil and dirt off. And then,you can rinse your hair with cold waterafterwards to close the cuticles andadd to the shine of your hair.Rinse your hair under the shower torid it of the leave-on conditioner andstyling aids you have used previously,using gentle strokes of your fingertips.Then, pour a dollop of shampoo in thepalm of your hand. Rub your handstogether, and then apply the shampooto your scalp. Take note that youshould put the shampoo on your scalpand not at the ends of your hair, as the

shampoo would dry yourhair's ends and cause it toweaken and split. Also, donot mix your hair all overyour head as you shampoobecause it will get alltangled up. After this, rinsethe shampoo off.More often than not, weneed to shampoo our hairfor a second time. Thepurpose of the firstshampoo is to clean the oiland dirt off; the secondshampoo is supposed tolet the shampoo treat ourhair. So, repeat the

process, but let the shampoo sit on foraround a couple of minutes. Rinse thehair completely after this.To get the excess water off your hair,just squeeze the water out. Do not pullor tug at the hair because the hair is atits most delicate when it is soaked.When the excess water is out, apply adollop of conditioner, and apply italong the hairline, the nape and theends of the hair. Pile your hair theninside a shower cap and let theconditioner stay there for around tenminutes. And then, rinse it offcompletely.The process described here does seemtedious and time-consuming. Butremember, having great hair takes timeand effort. And it is definitely worth itfor a picture perfect hair.

BEAUTY TIP...

TOP APP OFTHE MONTH

COOL WEBSITE WITH LOTS OF FUN THINGS TO DO.....

WHICH CLUB DID ARSENAL SIGN GERVINHOFROM AND FOR HOW MUCH?Email answers to: [email protected], making sure subjectreads Wee Teens Comp or post to: Wee Mag FalkirkCompetitions, Unit 8/9, 3 Dundee Court, Falkirk FK1 1PW.Ensure you include your name, address, age and phone number.Closing date is Friday 2nd September and winners will be notified bypost soon after. Good luck!

Gervais Yao Kouassi (born 27May 1987), commonly known asGervinho, is an Ivorianprofessional footballer whoplays as a forward for theEnglish Premier League clubArsenal.

Gervinho was born in Anyama,the same town as Hannover 96striker, and Ivorian internationalArouna Koné. He began hiscareer in the famed ASECAbidjan youth academy, wherehe spent five years. At ASECAbidjian, he was given theBrazilian style nickname"Gervinho", derived from hisfirst name Gervais.

Following this, he moved toIvorian Deuxieme Division ZoneFour side Toumodi F.C., where

he turned professional.When playing for Lille, he

scored 13 times in 32appearances for the side.In hissecond season, he made 42appearances in all competitions,scoring 18 goals to help Lillewin both the Ligue 1 and Coupede France.

On 11 July 2011, Gervinhoagreed to join Arsenal from Lillesubject to a regulatory processfor a fee believed to be around£10.5 million. He was formallyunveiled as an Arsenal player on18 July.

GERVINHO SIGNS FOR THEGUNNERS THIS SUMMER

10UCHER

HMV

It seems that Hogwarts Academy isaccepting new students! With HarryPotter: Spells, players get to learn awealth of spells as their phone istransformed to a magic wand. Userscan play against the computer oranother friend in a timed duel to findout who has the best mastery ofHarry Potter style wizardry!

In celebration of therelease of Harry Potterand the Deathly Hallows- Part 2, Harry Potter:Spells

Do you like stickmen? Play the best stick games this side of the internet. The stickpage on the website

http://www.bored.com/games/stickman/ has the most fun sniper, shoot 'm up, torture, ragdoll, fighting, and stick puzzle

games.

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Wee Mag Issue 11

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