MAY 2007 Issue No

The picturethis £50 CHRONICLE voucher to be won MAY 2007 Issue No. 82 Free See page 10 for competition details Reward offered for information on local post office robbery POLICE HAVE CONFIRMED the Royal Mail are offering a £5,000 incentive to the public for information about a robbery at Craigmillar office. It comes as detectives from Lothian and Borders Police continue investigations into the armed robbery on February 22. The reward is offered to anyone who comes forward with information leading to the arrest and conviction of person or persons responsible for the crime. At around 10.30am a man walked into the post office, pre- sented what appeared to be a firearm at the female shop assis- tant and demanded money. She handed over several thou- sand pounds worth of cash and the man fled in a blue Fiat Punto. The car was seen driving off along Craigmillar Castle Loan then along Craigmillar Castle Avenue. The culprit is white, aged Maasai warrior dances wow between 30 and 35 years, stocky build, wearing a cream thigh length jacket, dark hooded top underneath, brown shoes and a purple cap. the children of St. Francis A police spokeswoman said: “Our enquiries so far have not led ST. FRANCIS PRIMARY tourists. The English headmaster Their main source of income is fascinating. It is great that they to the identify of the culprit. We school had its hall turned into was asked if his school would from grazing cattle and goats in have been able to come here and hope that the offer of a reward a scene from an African vil- sponsor a tour for the troupe. areas of extreme drought. Fresh raise some money as they really will create new leads and an lage last month with the In 2004 the troupe visited water is scarce and access to edu- are living in desperate conditions arrest. arrival of the Osiligi Maasai Suffolk, England and performed at cation is limited and basic. in Kenya.” “We would appeal to anyone Dance Troupe. primary and secondary schools as The financial benefits of such After the dance performance, the who was in the vicinity of the In their first visit to Scotland, the well as agricultural shows. tours are improving the lives of troupe encouraged lots of ques- Craigmillar post office on Niddrie Osiligi Maasai Warriors were vis- They were such a success that it the Osiligi Warrior dancers help- tions from the pupils. Mains Road on the morning of iting the school as part of a spon- was hoped touring would become ing them to build new homes to One pupil wanted to know how February 22, and may have seen sored tour enabling them to make a regular event. They toured accommodate their families and they managed to jump so high and anything suspicious but, not yet money to take back home to sup- England again in 2005. send their children to school as whistle so loudly! The Kenyans spoken to police, to come for- port their families. This year, with the help of the well as enabling key health servic- were only too happy to demon- ward. The journey began for the City of Edinburgh Council and St es such as a maternity clinic. strate and encourage the children Anyone with information can Troupe when parents from a Francis Primary, the Troupe came St. Francis headteacher, to have a go themselves. contact Lothian and Borders school in England had seen them to Scotland. Margaret Duff told the Others were fascinated by the police on 0131 311 3131 or perform in their Kenyan village In Kenya, the nine members of Chronicle: “We are delighted to costumes and tribal jewellery Crimestoppers in complete trying to raise money from the Troupe struggle to survive. have the group here - they are on sale after the performance. anonymity on 0800 555 111. 2 The Chronicle...May 2007

The Chronicle is an independent newspaper published by Craigmillar Sweet smell of success for eco Community Newspaper Limited (CCN Ltd.) for the people of Greater Craigmillar. perfume Enterprise winners

CCN Ltd. is a Private Limited AN IDEA FOR AN eco-con- pupils to think; when they walk Company funded by the City scious perfume was enough to into a shop they’re not just going of Edinburgh Council sway a panel of judges from in to buy something but, they’re through the Craigmillar the world of business recently thinking about the process of how as some of the Craigmillar’s it got to the shop.” Partnership and the youngest entrepreneurs Winning team member Danielle Edinburgh Community faced-off in the annual Mearns explained their successful Newspaper Trust. Castlebrae High Enterprise formula, saying: “We combined Challenge. the idea of a perfume with the The team contest involved S3 environment and saving the plan- students aged 14-15 years taking a et, and I think that’s what made us product from inception to shop stand out. None of us argued, we floor, whilst focusing on costs, worked as a team, and we’re all so overheads and marketing strate- happy.” gies. She went on to add: “I love doing The pupils worked in groups the Challenge every year because with invited business profession- it’s good for team building, being The views expressed in the als, plotting a product campaign more patient, and finding out Chronicle are not necessari- and delivering a presentation to other people’s points of view.” ly those of the Editor or the the judging panel. According to Castlebrae’s Board of Directors. The event was co-sponsored by Scarlett Johnson, the Enterprise Editor: Sally Fraser the Craigmillar District Business Challenge has a key role in devel- Association (CDBA) and Fort oping the next generation of local Reporters: Fergus Grierson Kinnaird Retail Park, with support businessmen and women. It also Anne Glover from the local business communi- introduces key notions about the ty and beyond. work environment that will stand The Chronicle After a keenly fought contest, the participants in good stead when Unit 9A Castlebrae Business winning team was announced and they come to join the employment Centre, Peffer Place rewarded with a trophy and sector. Edinburgh EH16 4BB vouchers for their environmental- She said: “They were asked to ly friendly, refillable perfume deal with concepts they don’t Tel: 0131 661 0791 campaign. always deal with, and we mix e-mail: Awarding the prizes was Fort them up to allow them to see what Danielle Meams from the S3 winning team collects the Enterprise [email protected] k Kinnaird Centre Manager Liam it’s like in the real world when Challenge award from Fort Kinnaird’s Liam Smith Smith, who told the Chronicle: “It you’re working with colleagues Printed by: was a fine line between the final- that you didn’t choose. I’m to being very encouraged by the adding: “I really enjoyed it and it Scottish County Press ists but, the winning group really delighted with them because by- talent and creativity on display will continue, because the Delivered by: stood out because of their innova- and-large they were magnificent.” from the pupils taking part. CDBA need a presence in the Premier Delivery tion and the way they pitched the CDBA’s Linda Fenwick has been “They were enthusiastic, they community - and I hope to see product.” involved with the Challenge for were bubbly and the team dynam- some of these kids in the next Registered in Scotland He added: “The overall view of the last three years, and was on the ics were fantastic; they’d really couple of years when they want Registration No. 205722 the challenge was really to get the 2007 judging panel. She admitted thought it through,” she said, to start up their own businesses.” ADVERTISEMENT Deacon appointed COPY FOR QMU Professor INCLUSION QUEEN Margaret University (QMU) last month appointed Susan Deacon as Professor of IN THE Social Change. The former Minister and local JUNE MSP will lead plans for the development of a Forum for Social ISSUE MUST Change to be launched in the autumn when the University moves to its new purpose-built REACH US campus at Craighall. Professor Deacon will also con- BY: tribute to the University’s teaching and research across a range of areas. FRIDAY Professor Deacon said: “I look forward to my challenging new role with QMU and to developing plans 11th MAY for the new Forum for Social Change. I consider it a great privilege 2007 to have this opportunity to work with Queen Margaret at such an exciting stage in their development.” The Chronicle...May 2007 3

GRANTS UP Bingham residents take FOR GRABS FOR GREEN to the streets for spring GROUP INITIATIVES clean Scotland campaign COMMUNITY GROUPS looking to improve the envi- the hedges, they don’t care. I think ronment in their local park, the council wait too long to uplift woodland or green space in bulky things - sometimes three or the city are being offered the four weeks. opportunity to apply for She added: “The kids see things grants of up to £5,000 to help in gardens and take them and with their projects. smash them up in the street. The City of Edinburgh Council People just throw litter wherever has allocated £50,000 through the they want. We should definitely Parks and Gardens Capital have litter bins in the street. The Programme to be distributed to clean-up is a good idea though projects that will improve the and, I would like to see it happen appearance, facilities or conserva- on a regular basis as it would tion value of a local park or open show that the council and the resi- space. dents in Bingham care about their Groups can apply for up to environment.” £1000, although applications for Local resident and keen garden- up to £5000 will be considered er, Eleanor Murphy told The where there is match funding. The Chronicle: “I think the clean-up is Parks team will be looking for a really good thing. The binmen projects which should be capital / don’t take everything, so it’s good enhancement works rather than to be able to take bulky things to routine maintenance items. the community centre. It’s a really Examples of projects that will be good idea.” funded: planters, plants, seating, The council’s Zoe Bonthron spring bulbs, bird boxes; added: “Hopefully this is some- Educational material (e.g inter- Residents, Community Concierges and Council officials gather in Eleanor Murohy’s garden before the clean-up gets underway thing we can do every year and, pretation boards, leaflets); we would hope to get the local Equipment (e.g gardening tools, The streets of Bingham were al spring clean month, I decided ers, black bags, gloves and per- kids involved next time too.” litter pickers); Restoration or cre- treated to a spring clean recent- that this was something we could sonnel to aid the operation. The ation new habitats (e.g tree plant- ly courtesy of residents, environ- do in Bingham. This is the first clean up also provided residents ing, hedge laying, pond construc- mental wardens and the local project of its kind here. I am with an opportunity to bring larger tion, woodland management) community concierges. pleased some of the tenants take a items of rubbish to the community Mark Turley, Director of The month of April was national pride in the area and are support- centre for uplift on the day. Services for Communities said: Spring Clean in Scotland, a cam- ive of what we are trying to do. Special arrangements were made “Edinburgh’s many Friends paign run by Keep Scotland “The environment is always a with the council task force for the Groups work very hard to Beautiful encouraging local peo- major concern here - particularly uplift of bulky items. improve the city’s recreational ple to organise, or take part in, litter and fly tipping. Both council Wilma MacMillian chair of green spaces. By making this ‘clean-up’ activities. and housing association tenants Bingham Neighbourhood money available we hope to In consultation with the Bingham are taking part along with resi- Association told the Chronicle: “I enable even more groups to tack- Neighbourhood Association, the dents from the Bingham think the clean-up is a good idea. I le projects in their local area.” council’s Tenancy Management Neighbourhood Association, hope it’s an incentive to other peo- For further information contact: Team decided it was an ideal housing managers from the tenan- ple to watch where they throw lit- Karen Hay, Level C.3 Waverley opportunity to give the area a new cy management team, environ- ter and to put it in the proper place Court, 4 East Market Street, lease of life. mental wardens and members of - in the bin - not in the street. It’s a Edinburgh. EH8 8BG. Telephone Zoe Bonthron from the team told the community safety concierge.” terrible problem in this area. Residents and CEC officials clean- 0131 469 5196. the Chronicle: “As April is nation- The council provided litter-pick- People throw litter and bottles into up a Bingham alleyway E:[email protected]

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Art Exhibition ONE POTATO, TWO POTATO: Craigmillar Arts Space in Harewood Drive is set to host ‘The Depressionists’, a new exhibition of work by Edinburgh artists. Amongst the featured artists are Ray local project offer 40 varieties more Myles and Dawn Archibald, Markus Karkus, Moray Paterson, Paul Moore, as THE BRIDGEND ALLOTMENT group can organise similar events, well as local resident Arek Kozak. Health Project hosted Edinburgh’s workshopsand speakers etc. The exhibition opens on Thursday 17th first organic seed potato day at Inch The group still have some seed potatoes May with a launch evening between 6 and Community Centre recently. left - of quite a few varieties, so if you have 8pm, and will run from 18th-25th May Gardeners from all over the city con- left it late, don’t panic, please call, or go between 12.30 and 4.30pm (not Sunday), verged to buy their seed potatoes to plant. along to the project at Bridgend Farm, Old admission free. Over 40 varieties, all grown in Scotland, Dalkeith Road on a Tuesday or Thursday. For more information contact Mark Carr were available, and people were queuing at Bridgend Allotment Health Project will at Craigmillar Arts Centre 0131 669 8432. the door to make sure they got their also be running a series of environmental favourite tatties. Old fashioned varieties art workshops over the late spring/early were also on sale as were a wide selection summer. Rescheduled JKC of books on organic gardening. Please phone for more details, or look out After the scramble for spuds, people could in future issues of the Chronicle for dates. ‘social’ event relax with a cuppa and listen to an illustrat- They will also be running workshops to Cafe K’s Antisocial ‘Social’ event has ed talk about the history of how the potato build nest boxes, bat boxes and bird feed- been rescheduled for Friday 11th May. came to Britain from South America, and ers. Again, watch this space. The event will allow participants to ques- how certified (disease free) seed potatoes If you would like to go along and learn tion the people who make decisions about are produced in Scotland today. about gardening, working with a small antosocial ehaviour in the area and speak to It is hoped that the Edinburgh Potato Day group of others on a regular basis, on the local people and organisations. will become an annual event in early community allotment growing your own There will be an opportunity to give your spring. healthy food - and cooking it, please get in views and opinions and take part in work- Many of the visitors on the day touch with Anne, Amy or Cath on 07789 shops. signed up to creating an Edinburgh 500 388 or 07789 650 878. The ‘social’ starts at 1.00pm and runs Organic Gardening Group. Places are Anne, Amy and Cath are at the project on until 4.00pm at the Jack Kane Community still available in this group. If you are Tuesdays and Thursdays. Centre. Further details on 0131 657 1595. interested in joining please contact Why not check out the allotment website Anne, Amy or Cath at the Project. This at: www.bridgendallotment.org.uk ADVERTISEMENT Imaginative and creative gardeners sought for We offer advice and help to access: * Jobs City competition * Further Education * Training GREEN-FINGERED RESIDENTS, plants that will be used. businesses and community groups are The second category is for a planted recy- The services Worktrack offers include: job search, help to being invited to enter the City of cled container, where judges will be look- prepare a CV and produce a covering letter, support to complete Edinburgh Council’s fourth annual Keep ing for the imaginative use of a container application forms and advice about interview techniques. Information Edinburgh Growing garden competition. such as a bucket, box or basket planted with is available on further education and training courses. Guidance can The competition which attracted over 150 flowers and/or vegetables. be given on career choices and routes into work. entries last year offers several categories This allows all schools, regardless of the for individuals including front garden, amount of space they have, to take part in David Wise from Job Centre Plus is with us every Tuesday and wildlife garden, allotment and hanging bas- the competition. Wednesday to offer you back to work advice - including the financial ket/container display. Judging takes place in July. The judges are incentives available to you when you start a job. There is also categories for groups of peo- looking for bright colourful displays, which To make an appointment with him at Worktrack phone 456 4012. ple working together to improve where make the best use of the space available. they live, including a category for the best Extra points will be given for environmen- street, community project and tower block. tal awareness features such as composters, Our service is Free and Friendly Speaking about the benefits of the group bird feeders and water butts. All entrants Open: Monday to Thursday 9.30 to 12.30 and 1.30 to 4.30 competition, Cllr Bob Carirns, Executive will receive certificates, while the winning (lunch 12.30 to 1.30). Member for the Environment and entrants will receive prizes at an awards Friday 9.30 to 12.00 Streetscape said: “This competition is a ceremony in September. great opportunity for groups to get together For the full list of categories or to enter to brighten up their local environment contact Karen Hay on 0131 469 5196 or Phone or come in to make an appointment to talk about the job whether it be their street, tower block or email [email protected]. Enter you want. You can find us at: community garden. It also offers a chance on-line at: www.edinburgh.gov.uk/keeped- Worktrack, 32 Niddrie Mains Road. Behind the TSB bank. to get to know your neighbours better whilst inburghgrowing. working together to create something special List of categories Front garden. Place of for the whole community to enjoy.” worship. Hanging basket/container display. To call the Craigmillar office phone 620 6228 or contact our This year also sees the introduction of two Community garden. Wildlife garden. admin office on 620 6220. brand new categories for schools. The first is Shared tenement garden. Allotment plot. to design a floral bed with the winning design Street. Allotment site. Neighbourhood. being created in a city centre location in 2008. Commercial property (e.g. pub, B&B). The winning class will also get to visit the High Rise Block. School: planted recycled Council’s Inch nursery to help grow the container. School: design a flower bed. The Chronicle...May 2007 5 Local Out & About in Craigmillar launch for BME group BLACK AND MINORITY ethnic (BME) support group Men In Mind this month launch a new drop-in service at Castleview Community Centre, 76 Craigmillar Castle Avenue. There will be an inaugural lunch with families welcome held at the Centre on Thursday May 10th between 12 and 2pm, before the first drop-in session, which then Nursery’s Easter Parade... runs every Thursday between 2 TOTS FROM Children’s House Nursery had great fun at their and 5pm. Easter Parade last month. Facilities and activities on offer The youngsters donned their Easter bonnets and, led by a giant white include a sports hall, boxing, pool Easter Bunny, danced round the garden. tables, computers with internet access, an art room, games, TV, and a DVD player. Men In Mind (MIM) is a service providing information and support for BME men in Edinburgh. The project already runs successful sessions out of Gorgie, Wester Hailes, and Leith, aiming to raise awareness and develop mental Greendykes’ art... and emotional wellbeing support services amongst BME men. The LOCAL RESIDENT Arek Kozak sent us this photograph of a service is open to all BME men burnt out car in the fields behind Greendykes House. over the age of 16 by appoint- Arek and other residents took it upon themselves to decorate the ment, or by dropping in to one of unsightly abandoned vehicle in an attempt to brighten up the area. their open-access services, events Arek told the Chronicle: “The idea is to draw people’s attention to and activities. the problem, and involve youngsters in the process of creativity in MIM have a number of always- which a destruction is changed to creation and beauty.” available support workers, with Youngsters aged between ten and 16 years joined Arek in painting the Dancing Queens... different minority ethnic lan- car along with a participant of the Craigmillar Community Arts’ project OVER 80 PEOPLE attended a tea dance at the Jack Kane guage skills, able to provide ‘It’s my life’. Community Centre recently. short-term one-to-one support Arek added: “I chose the flowers for my design, because it’s a symbol The event was organised by Eileen McMillan Chairperson of the and open drop-in provision to of pure and natural beauty...recently we painted another burnt car!” Centre’s Older People’s Lunchclub. give informal support in a social environment. They also run a series of work- FREE TO CHRONICLE READERS: THIS MONTH sees the release and sometime Magdalene-resident shops and activities with other of a new CD from Edinburgh- Arch Campbell. He makes a return organisations to raise awareness New CD release featuring local talent based record label Alex Tronic on the new album, which also of mental health issues amongst Records. opens with ‘Boogie Down’ from BME men. Other services include ‘Alex Tronic Records Volume 1’ the Greendykes based Strangest a monthly forum, and occasional is the first in a series of compilation Thing, Dr A & Naz. social events addressing issues albums showcasing the best new There are also new tracks from relating to isolation and loneli- electronic musical talent in Åsa, Keser, and global internet col- ness. The forum means men can Scotland and beyond. laborators Kosmos Kollective. come together to discuss emo- Producer and musician Paul The Chronicle has three copies of tional health issues, and the social Croan set up Alex Tronic Records Alextronic Records Volume 1 to events provide an evening of last year as an outlet for electronic give away. music and entertainment within a chill-out and dance music ‘with a twist’. The first three readers to send in friendly and fun atmosphere. This 13-track compilation is the their names and addresses by post For more information about label’s fourth full-length release, to Unit 9a, Castlebrae Business Men In Mind and the drop in following warmly received albums Centre, Peffer Place, Edinburgh, service at Castleview Community from Åsa, Pockets of Resistance EH16 4BB or email to craigmil- Centre, contact Eigrrael Salinas and Keser. [email protected] will receive a Garcia, Support & Development Amongst the artists featured on copy. Worker, Men in Mind on 0131 the CD are a couple with local links. Alex Tronic Records Volume 1 is 225 8508 and 07920071746, or Last summer, the Chronicle fea- out on May 1st 2007. Julie Smith, Community tured Climate Change by Pockets For more information, visit Education Worker at Castleview of Resistance - a.k.a. DJ, producer www.alextronicrecords.co.uk Community Centre on 661 4064. 6 The Chronicle...May 2007

ADVERTI RevolutionaryRevolutionary sportssports pitchpitch putsputs CraigmillarCraigmillar aheadahead ofof thethe gamegame

James Campbell, Graham McEwan, Cherise Huth, Michael Scott and Ian Wood WORK ON EDINBURGH’S start of work on the development. sports turf surfaces are now creat- first ever ‘third generation’ arti- Welcoming the occasion, Ian ing valuable opportunities for ficial sports pitch kicked off in Perry, Chairman of PARC said: schools, and clubs at all levels - March. “This is a notable first for from youth teams, non-league, The new pitch uses the latest turf Craigmillar and for Edinburgh. It local authorities and professional technology supported by compa- shows that we are committed to clubs. Synthetic sports surfaces nies like FIFA and UEFA and is providing the very best communi- can be used all day, every day used for training by many of the ty facilities for our city - com- without deterioration in playing world’s leading sports clubs. The pared to anywhere in the world. performance. Castlebrae is striv- playing surface is similar to a “I am especially pleased that ing to encourage young people to ‘bowling green’, helping to elimi- these new pitches will be placed at adopt a healthy, active lifestyle nate the dreaded burns often associ- the very heart of the community and a first class local resource will ated with traditional artificial turf! for everyone to enjoy, and not be instrumental in helping young The £1.2 million sports pitch remain the exclusive preserve of people to stay fit.” project, which will include a the top sporting clubs. The Christine added: “The pavilion complex containing four Castlebrae development is just the Craigmillar Sports Forum will be Back Row Left to Right: Ian Wood, James Campbell, Ian Perry, Chair of PARC, Councillor changing rooms and a club room, start of PARC’s plans for top-class working to ensure that facilities Donald Anderson, Cherise Huth and Michael Scott. Front: Graham McEwan will be located next to Castlebrae sports facilities for the area and for other sports will be developed The pitch will provide the com- To start with, the sports pitch will High School in Craigmillar. The we will be announcing further in the area, particularly with the munity with a top rate playing be handed over to Castlebrae investment is part of PARC’s projects as the regeneration opportunities made available in experience and it is hoped to see School to manage with the inten- overall regeneration of the area. process in Craigmillar moves for- the building of a New Community more of these in Edinburgh in the tion being for it to become a com- Set for completion in August ward this year.” High School.” coming years to provide a communi- munity facility, managed and run 2007, the all-weather floodlit pitch Councillor Donald Anderson This pitch is the latest revolution ty club network across the city. by local people. Training times will be used for both the school added: “Edinburgh deserves the in providing ‘all weather’ playing Kevin Miller, Chair of will be organised through the and community. best sporting facilities available - facilities with an artificial playing Craigmillar Sports Forum said: school for local sports teams Craigmillar schoolchildren and for our top performing clubs surface that feels like grass, looks “The Craigmillar Sports Forum is which will be decided once the representatives from local sports through to the budding sports stars like grass and plays like grass. It delighted by the development of pitch is completed. clubs joined Councillor Ian Perry, of the future. With the third gen- provides a more natural bounce this new pitch. Local teams are The Castlebrae sports pitch is Chair of PARC and Councillor eration pitches, we will be getting than sand-filled astro-turf pitches excited to have the opportunity to designed by BDS Services and the Donald Anderson, CEC’s them.” and provides players with a better train on a first class surface which pavilion by Smith Scott Mullan archi- Executive Member for Sport, Christine Scott from Castlebrae grip, resulting in a safer and more will hopefully increase participa- tects. PARC is at preferred contractor Culture and Tourism to mark the High School said: “Artificial enjoyable playing experience. tion in sport locally.” status - the contractor being ERDC.

Back row: Left to Right Kenny Miller, John Quinn, PARC General Manager, Ian Perry, Chair of PARC, Councillor Donald Anderson, Ian Perry Chair of Parc and Councillor Donald Anderson Keith Wright, Kenny Kivlin, Ian Wall, CEO of EDI and PARC, Rab Henderson, Christine Scott from Castlebrae High School. The Chronicle...May 2007 7

SEMENT PARC’s Planning Update

The next phase of building activity at Wauchope Square was approved by the City of Edinburgh Council’s planning commission on 18 April.

This phase will see 22 new detached and terraced houses on Hay Gardens being built by PARC.

Four of these homes will be available for social rent from Castlerock Housing Association.

Construction work starts in May 2007 and homes will be available to move into in 2008.

PARC SENT OUT 8,000 leaflets (pictured above) door-to-door David Stewart from the City of Edinburgh Council said “It’s great in Craigmillar at the end of March to keep you up-to-date to see interest in new homes in the area.” about new homes in the area. If you would like more information on homes for rent in House selling agents Rettie said that there had been an increase in Craigmillar, please contact David Stewart on 0131 529 7242. housing queries about the 3,000 new homes planned for the area If you would like to register your interest in buying a PARC since the leaflet went out. home, visit www.parclife.co.uk or telephone 0845 220 5000. BuriedBuried TTrreasureasure...e...

CRAIGMILLAR SCHOOL pupils and residents will become • Photos are a great way to give future generations ideas part of history as they help PARC create a time capsule that about time and culture as are hand and foot print and will be planted at the new school site when its’ completed in self-portraits. 2008. • CD/DVDs and tapes - you can record a message for PARC is working with St Francis and Niddrie Mill Primary future generations or film yourself. schools to find out what the top ten items they would like to put in • Hand and foot prints or self-portraits. the timecapsule to mark the completion of their new school. • Newsletters or a copy of The Chronicle! John Quinn, PARC General Manager said “It’s great to have the • A sculpture, a carving, a piece of jewellery. local school pupils involved in this way. It will be fascinating for • A calendar like the Craigmillar one pictured right, or a diary. people in the future to see what the new housing and overall regen- All you need to do is fill in the form below and send it to the eration in the area meant to the people living in the area.” FREEPOST address: Sadie Miller, headteacher at Niddrie Mill Primary school said Freepost RRAE-HYCA-GTUX, PARC, Edinburgh, EH1 3EB “We are pleased to be involved in this project as it will help continue the link between the school and wider community for many years to come. It will be exciting to think that items planted by the Name: pupils this year will be recovered by future generations.” Margaret Duff, headteacher at St Francis primary commented “the children of today would be leaving behind historic evidence Address: for the children of the future and it would reflect on the reality of life in the early 21st century in Craigmillar.” Telephone: Email: If you have any ideas for what should go into the timecapsule, please feel free to fill in the Freepost form below. The person with Ideas for Time Capsule: the best idea will take part in the ceremonial burying of the timecapsule. Here are some tips to guide you with your ideas..... 8 The Chronicle...May 2007 Advice Shop answering your questions Volunteer Help with application forms... Centre Have you come to live in communicating, they can arrange Britain recently. Are you find- to have an interpreter to speak for ing it hard to manage paying you, they can also arrange to bills or filling in forms. have someone help if British The Advice Shop offer help Sign Language is your only way Volunteers needed for new sports project with making applications for of communication. Housing Benefit, Tax/Pension The service will not cost you Kids in the Street (KITS): volunteer himself, has an exten- Like many local charities, the Credits, Child Benefit and out of anything and if they can’t help Street Football is a new project sive career in the area of sport. He project needs the support of the work benefits. They can also with your problem, they can per- with the aim to encourage local is involved in the midnight foot- local community to ensure the help with appeals, overpayments haps give you some information children in the Craigmillar and ball project in West Lothian; an pitch is used to its full capacity. and rent arrears. on other organisations that might surrounding areas to play sport. initiative which aims to decrease For the pitch to be used success- They have Money Advisors be able to help you. crime by engaging young people fully and continuously KITS need who can help if you have prob- The Advice Shop is funded by It does this by providing a unique in sport. local people to volunteer. They lems managing on the amount of City of Edinburgh Council and travelling pitch that can be set up are currently looking for volunteer money you have and maybe find- the service is free to all residents on any piece of land. The pitch The project works with young drivers, pitch helpers and coaches. ing it difficult to pay electricity, of Edinburgh regardless of can fold up flat within 30 minutes people during the peak crime gas or something else. whether you work or not. and be easily transported around hours between 8 and 10pm to get If you have a few hours to spare, They also have someone from If you would like to visit the the area. them actively involved with football. want to help your local communi- Warmburgh on a Friday morning Advice Shop to talk about, or He hopes that the skills and expe- ty and maybe enjoy a watching a who can give help and advice on claim benefits, or have money or The ease in which football can be rience that he has gathered over good game of football, why not heating your home. heating problems they are open taken to the community is a great the years will prove indispensable get involved. By donating a little If you have rent arrears and Monday, Wednesday and asset; it enables the project to be to the young people of Craigmillar piece of time volunteers can threatened with being taken to Thursday 9.30-4.00, Friday 9.30- accessible for all young people. and the surrounding areas. ensure the success of KITS. court they can help you by talk- 3.30 and Tuesday 11.00-4.00. The project, in collaboration with ing to your landlord or housing They can be very busy at times, City of Edinburgh Council and He said: “I enjoy sport, I enjoy For more information contact department for you and, if you do so it is better to arrive as early as the local Community Police the skills that it teaches you and I Brian on 0131 661 6677 or email: have to go to court, they can go possible. Officer, PC Mark Thomson began know that each child has some- brian.thompson@volunteeredin- with you to speak on your behalf. Telephone The Advice Shop on as an idea to engage young peo- thing to benefit from KITS, be it burgh.org.uk Volunteer Centre If you have problems under- 0131 225 1255 and remember ple in physical activity. the experience of team playing, Craigmillar is open every standing English or problems the service is free. the physical benefits of exercise Monday and Wednesday in Mark Higgins was appointed this or simply having something to Craigmillar Ability Network, 94 year as the coordinator. Mark, a do. Everyone wins.” Niddrie Mains Road, EH16 4DT. Gavin Mind Body Stroll Health Walks If you are not very active and are looking for ways to get moving, then come along to a health walk. Strang MP They are led by qualified walk leaders who motivate and support you every step of the way. A Health Walk is: *SHORT 30-45 mins *MANAGEABLE we walk at a pace to suit you holds interview sessions for constituents at *SOCIAL chance for a cuppa and chat afterwards *FUN *FREE AUGUSTINE UNITED CHURCH 41 George IV Bridge on the fourth Friday of the month They help you to: *Keep your heart strong *Manage your weight between 10am and 11am *Reduce stress and anxiety *Make new friends *Feel good and at Just wear comfortable shoes, bring some water and dress for the weather! PORTOBELLO TOWN HALL On your first time, please turn up a few minutes before the walk. Portobello High Street on the second Friday of the month 8th May, Meet Behind the Thistle, outside Castlebrae High School, Craigmillar Castle Park. Moderate between 7.30pm and 8.30pm. 15th May, Meet at Commonwealth Pool, outside the main entrance. Harder You may also make an appointment to discuss a problem or raise an issue with Gavin Strang. 22nd May, Meet behind the Thistle, outside Castlebrae High School. Moderate

Please phone 669 6002 or write to 29th May, Meet at Duddingston Loch park. Harder Gavin Strang MP Constituency Office Easy: Flat walk or slight slopes, mostly even surfaces 54 Portobello High Street Moderate: Moderate slopes and/or some uneven surfaces Edinburgh Harder: Steeper slopes and/or some uneven surfaces EH15 1DA email: [email protected] www.gavinstrang.co.uk Thursday 12pm - New Beginners Walk Until 31st May Leaving from and returning to the Craigmillar Medical Centre Easy: Flat walk or slight slopes, mostly even surfaces

For more information regarding the walks, please contact Gemma on 0131 669 0401 [email protected] www.pathstohealthcraigmillar.btik.com The Chronicle...May 2007 9 WriteWrite toto reply...reply... LettersLetters toto thethe EditorEditor Craigmillar Community Councillors exercise their ‘write to reply’ Dear Editor tary organisation when in fact it staff, parents and children wont If trying to find out the truth is a for any member of the public to In response to Patsy King’s let- is a limited company with chari- be able to see exactly why CCS crime then we are guilty. read, and it does not make good ter last month, whilst we do not table status and as such has to is in this position. What could What should not be in doubt is reading. want to drag this issue out any lodge accounts at Companies be viewed as cowardly, despica- that we are very much supporting What CCS and their reps were longer, we do feel that we have House. According to Ms King, ble and dishonest is the fact that our community, the whole com- asking the council for in a long to respond to her letter. difficulties only arose in January, the staff & users have no idea as munity and as such believe that round about way, was permission Firstly, the last time we looked but her accounts for the last two to the extent of the problems people running projects have to to trade out of insolvency. we live in a democracy and as years tell a very different story. with the management of CCS. In be accountable to the community. Everybody knows that this is such are entitled to “take it upon The Council have a responsibili- the report, mention was made of Yours sincerely not possible. The company’s ourselves” if we so wish and do ty to account for how public the following problems: poor Norrie Davies, Honor Flynn, auditor has stated in his report not have to ask her permission to funds are used and as such are financial management; around John Clark - Democratically- that for the last two years CCS attend a meeting. We are after duty bound to monitor organisa- £16,000 unidentified in the trial elected Community Councillors have been all but trading as all democratically elected com- tions that receive public funds. balance; lack of adequate finan- insolvent. munity councillors with a man- In fact as a veteran of receiving cial expertise; higher than aver- So, Ms King, before writing date to represent the community public monies she must know age prices despite receiving grant Dear Editor, anymore scathing letters to news- and in particular wanted to support that CCS also have that same funding; higher than average I would like to reply to Ms papers and embarrassing yourself members of her staff and concerned responsibility. salaries for certain members of staff; King’s letter in last months issue. and your board, do what the rest parents who had contacted us. We do not believe that our operating at less than 50% capacity Ms King states that: “none of of us have done - homework. We note that Ms King seems to actions in any way jeopardised The report, which was not a these six people had any authori- Finally, myself and many, many have difficulty in gauging how the jobs of the staff and we council audit but, an independent ty to talk on their (Childcare others throughout the greater many children attend her project couldn’t speak more highly of auditor who was asked to help Services) behalf or make any Craigmillar community are of the and to our knowledge between them and the work that they do - reconstruct CCS’s accounts so comment about them or their opinion that Tony Clapham did 73 - 250 have been quoted on what we were concerned about that a full understanding of the employment.” She also stated have the facts and spoke well various occasions. In terms of was the obvious need for stronger current situation could be estab- that: “Not one of these six peo- when he spoke for the vast the knowledge that we have and effective management to lished. It was noted a strength ple...checked the accuracy of the majority of the community as he about CCS, she seems to forget ensure that the company is viable that CCS has is that they had a statement they were making” and addressed the Edinburgh City that two of our number are also in the long term which will secure better than average trained work- that this “jepordised the future of Council meeting. Partnership directors who attend employment for the future. force and custom built premises. the service.” Yours sincerely the funding panel to award part Tony Clapham is entitled to It also noted that there is a blur- For Mrs King’s information - Elizabeth Barron of the grant that CCS receives. make public his views on this ring of the Board that is chaired and that of her board - myself Democratically-elected As for contacting her about the matter, as are we and do not con- by Paul Nolan and the and others were, on numerous Community Councillor situation, none of us believe for sider it to be ‘cowardly & despi- Management, Patsy King who is occasions, approached by both one minute that she would have cable’ to do this. Would Ms identified as the Chief Executive. parents and staff members in a Names and been forthcoming with any use- King be happy for the report As for being a witch-hunt, noth- bid to raise their concerns addresses can ful information as we believe the about the management and gov- ing is further from the truth - regarding Childcare Services be withheld from council has had difficulty in ernance of the project by profes- what we want is open, honest simply because they had been publication if so wished, but accessing information from them. sional auditors to be made pub- and correct management of a kept in the dark for so long. The must accompany all She claims that CCS is a volun- lic? It’s not very likely, so the vital service for this community. CCS business plan is available letters to the Editor Neighbourhood Association Meetings The Neighbourhood Alliance supports the local Neighbourhood Associations in the area and wants the local community to be aware of when these meetings take place and encourage as many people as possible get involved in their own area. All of the meetings are open meetings and everyone is welcome. Generally the meetings are held monthly as follows:

1st Monday of the month - Thursday 31st May Tuesday 29th May Tuesday 22nd May Gypsy Travellers North Magdalene Portobello Court Neighbourhood Niddrie Marischal Cairntows Neighbourhood Neighbourhood Association Association 6.30pm in Meeting Neighbourhood Association Association in St Martin’s Church at 7pm Room Portobello Court, Portobello Hays Community Business Tel: for further details High Street. Centre 6.30pm. Monday 14th May Wednesday 16th May Tuesday 1st May Craigmillar Castle Regeneration Niddrie House Neighbourhood Niddrie Mill Tenants & Group Association Residents Association Old Kintry Offices BeWell Niddrie House Park in Hays Community Business 2 Craigmillar Castle Road at 6.30pm Centre at 7pm 7.00pm If you have any queries about any of the above Wednesday 9th May Tuesday 15th May Thursday 10th May please do not hesitate to Greendykes Neighbourhood Bingham Neighbourhood Community Regeneration Forum contact the Association Association Hays Community Business Neighbourhood Alliance in the Community Rooms of Bingham Complex, Bingham Ave. Centre, Hay Avenue on 0131 657 0500 or Wauchope House at 6.30pm 6.30pm 6.30pm email [email protected] 10 The Chronicle...May 2007 picturethis £50 voucher to be won This competition is brought to you by Craigmillar Arts and Environment Project and The Chronicle, with sponsorship from PARC! A photo of a place in Craigmillar appears every month, but might not be so easy to recognise, due to the angle it’s taken from. To grab your opportunity to win a prize, all you have to do is write down where the picture was taken and send your answer with your name and address, to:The Chronicle, Unit 9a, Castlebrae Business Centre, Peffer Place, Edinburgh EH16 4BB £50 of vouchers will be on offer to the person who guesses correctly. If there’s more than one person with the correct answer, we’ll draw for the winner. All the photos have been taken by the Chronicle and Arts and Environment Project, to get everyone looking at Craigmillar in a different way. If you look in the right places, it’s amazing what plants and animals you can find here!

Closing date: Friday 11th May 2007. April answer: Niddrie Mains Road Winner: F. Lamont. Magdalene, Edinburgh Craigmillar Arts And Environment Project SPONSORED BY Craigmillar Arts Centre, 58 Newcraighall Rd, EH15 3HS 20:20 VISION: Leadership and Ambition at Castlebrae High Columnists Castlebrae CASTLEBRAE HIGH School of Vocational Courses which will after school opportunities includ- • We will be hosting a series of has been identified as a 20:20 be implemented in June 2007. ing Fencing with Literacy, Drama, community suppers, the 1st sup- Vision School which is a part- These options will include Hair Jewellery Making, Journalism and per will be on 31st May in SPACE Sean Saez nership project funded by the and Beauty, Construction, Care, the Film Club. - invites will be in the post soon. Scottish Executive and The and Automotive Engineering in Hunter Foundation. Partnership with Telford College. Integration Leadership A new Depute Head has been In order to achieve this Castlebrae appointed to take this initiative is currently building a new • An extended range of provision • Our Student Council, Eco forward for the Castlebrae Area. Hairdressing Salon and is being developed to cater for the Schools Group and Green Team In addition, a 20 20 Vision Local Construction area. individual needs of all our pupils have taken part in a team building Planning Group has been estab- and the three 20:20 Vision day and leadership training activ- lished to develop the 15 projects • A range of Apprenticeship/work Schools are working in partner- ities and have been given greater Allanah Kay which make up 20:20 Vision in based opportunities are being ship with external agencies to responsibility for defining prior- our area. developed, including a Bursary enhance existing provision. ities for our school in order to The 20:20 Vision initiative has Scheme with our local Business involve all students in our four main themes: personalisation, Partners for all S4, S5 and 6 • A breakfast club has been set up school. integration, engagement and par- Pupils. which includes physical activities ticipation and leadership and aims followed by a healthy breakfast • Our pupils will be given the to raise attainment, improve atten- • The new Learning Alliance, a every Friday and a new daily club opportunity to undertake our new dance and increase the numbers of study support initiative, was will be set up for 1st to third years ‘Developing children as leaders’ young people going on to col- launched in January to compli- soon. initiative. Initially, the School Rebecca Dickson lege/university, employment or ment our raising attainment strate- Council and Eco Schools Group training. gies. This aims to work in partner- Engagement and will trained in a range of leader- The following projects will be ship with pupils and parents in Participation ship skills, including Columba developed and implemented over order to ensure that all our stu- 1400 training. the course of the next 2 years: dents are fully prepared for their • The School will develop and final examinations in May. implement the new Community • Our teachers will access a range Personalisation Radio Station Project over the of CPD opportunities related to • A range of Sport and Arts pro- course of this year and we will run the 20:20 Vision targets, including • Our Curriculum will be restruc- grammes have been developed, our very own Radio Station live attending the newly developed tured in order to integrate a range including an extended range of from Castlebrae. Leadership Seminars. Jade Spiers The Chronicle...May 2007 11

Handy Phone Numbers May Stars by Anthena POLICE ARIES- Feeling very run- LEO- You should be rich- SAGITTARIUS- You Craigmillar Police Station 661 3362 down of late, you are not ly rewarded for recent have experienced some HEALTH SERVICES going to find the support efforts on all fronts. very dark times recently you need if you keep looking in the You’re strong no-nonsense approach but, have emerged through the other Craigmillar Medical Group 536 9500 wrong places. A new support network has helped ensure that those in a posi- side. You are beginning to realise you Durham Road Surgery 669 1153 is what you need and to find it, you tion to do not take advantage of you - will always pull through but, you need Milton Surgery 549 7300 are going to have to be honest. earning you deserved respect. to find a better coping mechanism. Be WELL 657 4174 Castle Project 669 0068 Greendykes Clinic 536 9650 TAURUS- The hard work VIRGO- Although con- CAPRICORN- Feeling Health Opportunities Team 468 4600 and time you have invest- tact with some is infre- belittled by others, you do Link In 661 1240 ed in colleauges has quent, a few carefully not know how to resulted in an unforeseen victory. chosen words have gone a long way approach certain people for fear of SCHOOLS & NURSERIES Those concerned are extremely to deliver peace of mind and a sense causing further upset. You have been pleased and privileged to be on board. of support to those who so desperate- honest with yourself and have taken Brunstane Primary 669 4498 Results won’t leave you disappointed! ly need it. the first step by apologising. Castleview Primary 661 6429 Lismore Primary 669 4588 Newcraighall Primary 669 3598 GEMINI- Recent uspets LIBRA- Seizing new AQUARIUS- A change Niddrie Mill Primary 468 7025 have caused you much opportunities with both of heart has gone a long St. Francis Primary 621 6600 suffering and frustration. hands you seem to be liv- way to heal a close rela- Castlebrae High 661 1282 Those who are in a posi- ing in the moment rather than worry- tionship. However, your reluctance to Holy Rood High 661 5871 tion to help you do not seem to be ing about the future! With increased admit, and instead judge harshly has Portobello High 669 2324 taking you seriously and you may confidence and responsibility the left open wounds. What you perceive a Greengables Nursery 669 9083 feel there is little else you can do. doubts of recent months are fading. situation to be is just that - a perception. Children’s House Nursery 661 1401 CITY OF EDINBURGH COUNCIL CANCER-Somewhat fed SCORPIO- A recent dis- PISCES- Recent surprises Main Switchboard 200 2000 up with life at the cussion has left others have evoked passion in Local Office 529 3111 moment? Your need to feeling bewildered and you and restored your Craigmillar Social Work Dept 656 9800 worry about everyone and everything very cautious. They have admitted confidence. Do not feel guilty regard- CHURCHES is an overreaction and doesn’t solve their faults, whilst you seem to be ing comments made by others - they anything- in fact it has a rather conta- very defensive of your innocence. have no idea what the truth is. You Bristo Memorial 657 3266 gious effect. Remember, it takes two to tango! should feel proud of yourself. Niddrie Community Church 669 9400 Richmond Craigmillar 661 6561 St. Teresa’s 661 2185 Thistle (Robin Chapel) 661 3366 Advertise MISCELLANEOUS Adult Learning Link 652 6324 with the Adult Student Link 661 1282 KKaazz CCaarrddss Bingham Community Centre 669 8778 Bingham & District 50+ Project 669 0606 Brenda House 669 6676 Chronicle Business Community Connections 652 0367 Business Incubator Project 661 8888 Capacity Building Project 661 0200 Caring in Craigmillar/Phonelink 661 5852 Castlerock Edinvar Housing Association 657 0600 Great rates Castleview Community Centre 661 4064 Craigmillar Ability Network 661 6677 & special Community Education 661 7463 Craigmillar Adventure Project (CAPRO) 652 1557 Craigmillar Arts Centre 669 8432 discounts Craigmillar Chronicle 661 0791 Craigmillar Childcare Services 656 8050 for block Craigmillar Credit Union 661 9942 Craigmillar Library 529 5597 bookings Craigmillar Neighbourhood Alliance 657 0500 Craigmillar Partnership Support Team 661 5117 HHaannddmmaaddee Cre8te 661 8888 Edinburgh Childcare Information Service 0800 032 0323 GGrreeeettiinnggss CCaarrddss Hays Business Centre 657 9475 Telephone: Haywired Community IT Centre 669 1554 Personalised to order Hunters Hall Housing Co-op 657 3379 0131 661 0791 Instep 659 5959 Discount for bulk orders Jack Kane Centre (Community Wing) 657 1595 Jack Kane Centre (Sports Wing) 669 0404 email: Lloyds TSB Bank 661 2070 craigmillar@ Contact on 0131 621 0714 Magdalene Community Centre 669 8760 Kaz Thistle Foundation 661 3366 chronicle.org.uk for further details The Venchie 621 7620 Work Track 620 6220 12 The Chronicle...May 2007

ADVERTISEMENT Units 1-3 Castlebrae Business Centre, Peffer Place, Edinburgh EH16 4BB Telephone: 0131 661 8888 Email: [email protected] Fax: 0131 661 0883 www.cre8te.co.uk

CDBA Thinking of Becoming Craigmillar helps give a Childminder? Edinburgh’s Children need Business local pupils more Childminders now! an insight But…… Incubator Project into the What’s Involved in Childminding? How much can I earn? (CBIP) world of Who will help me? is based in the Castlebrae Where do I start? Business Centre and offers an informal walk-in support business service for all local residents and businesses. Free Training and support The project provides opportunities for all residents no THE CRAIGMILLAR AND & matter their background who wish to realise their District Business Association Grants of up to £500 to get you started entrepreneurial ambitions and encourages self (CDBA) recently co-sponsored employment as a realistic option to improve their Castlebrae Community High To book a place on these popular sessions circumstances. School’s annual S3 Enterprise Contact Nikki Kidd Business Gateway Challenge. On 0131 661 8888 or email Support, advice, upskilling and encouragement Staff from Cre8te and Nikki [email protected] Craigmillar Business Incubator \are all available through CBIP. Project sat on the panel of judges where they were given the hard task of marking Craigmillar’s Contact us on young up-and-coming entrepreneurs of the future. 0131 661 8888 See next issue for full details..... Castlebrae Business Centre Units available for 600 square feet (55.74 sq m) Monthly leases from £400 per month. Service charges included. Easily maintained accommodation with all facilities. No legal fees. Immediate Entry is available.