EAST OUTLOOK • SUMMER 2009 • 17 Glasgow East’s 5K FUN RUN and BIG DAY OOT! Tollcross Park, Sunday 28 June - ENTER NOW

With Spring in the air, put a spring in your step and go for it with this year’s Glasgow East 5K Fun Run and Big Day Oot! For the first time, the 5K Fun Run partners up with local arts groups across Glasgow East to present a whole day of family fun in The Big Day Oot!

THE 5K FUN RUN Gather at 10am for the big warm up, get on your marks get set and go at 10.30am. To enter call 0141 Warming up... Wellshot Primary pupils 550 5000 or do it online at with Cllr George Redmond www.engageme.org.uk. It’s free, it launches The Big Day Oot! day will be a great day out for all and you could hop, jump, walk, With live music stages, a the family. Walk the 5K with the skip it... whatever you want - so children’s village, stalls and wee ones or start training now no excuses! And for everyone much more The Big Day Oot will and surprise yourself with what that completes the 5K Fun Run, be great fun for all ages. you can achieve. This will be a there is a winner’s medal and Cllr George Redmond, Chair of great day making a positive goodie bag. the Event Planning Group, said, impact on Tollcross and Glasgow “Whether you can run or not, this East.” THE BIG DAY OOT A lively carnival procession will 5K FUN RUN/SUNDAY 28 JUNE kick off from St Michael’s Tollcross Park, 254B Wellshot Road, G32 7AX. Primary, Springfield Road at 12 To enter, please go to www.engageme.org.uk or call 0141 550 5000. noon, winding its way through 10am: gather for Warm Up. 10.30am: Fun Run commences. the streets of Glasgow East and finishing in Tollcross Park where THE BIG DAY OOT!/SUNDAY 28 JUNE Tollcross Park, 254B Wellshot Road, G32 7AX. 12 noon: Carnival procession kicks off from St Michael’s Primary, Springfield Road. 12.30pm: The Big Day Oot formally commences with the arrival of the carnival parade.

GLASGOW EAST 5K FUN RUN - TRAINING NETWORKS IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO GET YOURSELF READY FOR THE 5K FUN RUN!

Culture and Sport Glasgow continues to support this year’s 5K FUN RUN with FREE Training Networks for all ages and abilities across Glasgow East.

JOGGING NETWORKS - at a glance! East End Healthy Living Centre. Mondays (6 weeks) 6 - 7pm 18 May, 25 May, 1 June, 8 June, 15 June, 22 June 2009

Haghill Sports Centre. Wednesdays (6 Weeks) 6 - 7pm 20 May, 27 May, 3 June, 10 June, 17 June, 24 June 2009

Tollcross Leisure Centre. Tuesdays (6 weeks) 6 - 7pm 19 May, 26 May, 2 June, 9 June, 16 June, 23 June 2009

Lochend Community High School. Thursdays (5 weeks) 6 - 7pm 21 May, 28 May, 4 June, 11 June, 18 June, 25 June 2009

Bannerman High School. Thursdays (5 weeks) 6 - 7pm 21 May, 28 May, 4 June, 11 June, 18 June, 25 June 2009

WALKING GROUP - pace yourself! Tollcross Leisure Centre. Tuesdays (6 weeks) 6 - 7pm 19 May, 26 May, 2 June, 9 June, 16 June, 23 June 2009

Give Stuart Grieve, Culture and Sport Glasgow, a call for more information or advice on 0141 287 7025. 18 • GLASGOW EAST OUTLOOK • SUMMER 2009

LATEST NEWS FROM Culture & Sport Glasgow...

Whitehill boys turn football into a Soccer Circus 12 boys from Whitehill Youth the interactive activities at Soccer with Culture and Sport Glasgow, Group improved more than Circus. They feasted in a private explained: “football is used as a their football skills when they party room, and one boy who tool to bring young people recently took part in a 6 week was presented with a football for together to develop skills and football tournament. best effort overall said: “I just build relationships and trust The two teams, chosen for their can’t believe how great this 6 amongst the group and with positive attitude, team work, week tournament has been - youth work staff.” general behaviour and respect seriously, I wasn’t sure about it at The Whitehill boys are shown within the club, as well as first but made new friends and planning further activities and are their football performance, were learned some new things.” now participating in the running ZEST – MAKING SPRING rewarded with a trip to Soccer Andy Cheshire, a Youth Worker of their club. Circus at Xscape Braehead. AND SUMMER SPECIAL The teams also enjoyed a For further information on activities for young people please ZEST Spring Holiday their natural environment along training session with top notch speak to Andy Cheshire, [email protected] Programme during the two with Culture and Sport Staff Scottish Football Association or phone Andy on 0141 276 1976. week break was a fantastic providing 16 Play sessions in 8 coaches, followed by 2 rounds of success in East Glasgow. parks in the East. Culture and Sport Glasgow Plans in the East are already and the Voluntary Sector well underway for a bumper 6 provided a great range of week ZEST Summer Special - SCOTTISH YOUTH activities for children and when parks and open spaces will young people in over 40 venues be used even more, by working - community facilities, libraries, in partnership with Park Rangers PARLIAMENT ELECTION 2009 leisure centres, museums and and local community groups. Vote in your local Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP) election – or put yourself forward and stand as a parks The ZEST Planning Group in candidate! Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYPs) are elected to represent Scottish A series of Junior Bootcamp the East is already working on Parliamentary constituencies and national voluntary organisations. All young people aged 14 - 25 are fitness classes, a civilian take on even bigger and better things for eligible to vote. an army theme, consisted of a 25 the Summer Break running from strong ‘platoon’ of 12 - 15 year Monday 29 June - Friday 14 Can I become a Member of Scottish Youth Parliament? olds called ‘Junior Tornados’ August. Yes, if you’re aged 14 - 25 and live in then you’re eligible to stand as a candidate. went down a storm. Qualified For more information about the Bootcamp instructors in true ZEST bumper Summer Special What will I be expected to do? Bootcamp style led activities contact Shaun Pearce or Willie Becoming a MSYP is a real opportunity to get your views heard and represent other young people from your such as: running, tag, and an Cameron at Culture and Sport area - this is your chance. MSYPs get loads of opportunities, but they also have responsibilities – you’ll be assault course - involving car Glasgow (East) on 0141 276 expected to: tyres, camouflage nets and hoops. 1785. In the meantime, remember • attend 4 national sittings The ZEST Spring Programme in to keep an eye out for what’s on • take part in campaigns East Glasgow responded to a in your local venue as Zest • represent the views of other young people to decision-makers. recent survey highlighting activities are available during • spend on average 5 hours a week as an MSYP ‘Cotton Wool Children’ who term time as well as during the A Questions and Answers Youth Night will take place on Tuesday 19 May from 6.30 - 9.30 at Fuse East don’t get to play by exploring school holidays. End Youth Café – meet the MSYP candidates and listen to live bands and DJ mixes. The actual Elections will run from 25 - 29 May. Polling stations will be all around the area or phone and talk to Nicola Moffat or Jim Robertson (Culture and Sport Glasgow) on 0141 276 1785 to find out more or GLASGOW’S LEARNING? email [email protected] or [email protected] AYE WRITE! REMEMBER, YOUR NEEDS YOU! One of the highlights of this year’s Aye Write! Bank of Scotland Book Festival was the Community Learning Event on Friday 13 March which showcased the work of Glasgow’s adult learners with DRUGS DRAMA short stories and poems based on their life experiences or on the During the school Spring break to taking ‘party drugs’ at the the route that these guys went theme of superstition - it was Friday the 13th after all! 55 young people aged 12-18 weekend, and then ultimately down. The questions were Many of the learners took the opportunity to entertain the audience from across Culture and Sport taking heroin. The cast were excellent in terms of getting the with stories of spooky goings on, strange superstitions and ‘Baked Glasgow’s youth programmes applauded for getting across their most from the evening and most Beans’, a rather flatulent dragon! participated in a drugs powerful and serious message in of the young people recognised 150 people participated in the event which also included a ‘learning awareness play and workshop a hilarious drama. that the initial progression of wish ladder’, everyone was invited to write down their learning wish or at Whitehill Secondary School At the end of the play young starter drugs, that some of them ambition for the next year and hang it on a piece of string suspended in Dennistoun. people in the audience got the may already be using, is not as between two ladders - definitely not for the superstitious as it was The play originated from a chance to quiz ex-addicts about ‘cool’ as they think and in fact surrounded by open umbrellas and a black cat! project called Jericho House in why they chose the lifestyle they could lead to destruction of their Adult learners from Culture and Sport Glasgow groups and learners Greenock - a drug rehabilitation led, what made them choose young lives. from Eastbank Literacies Base in , Glasgow East centre that provides a safe and drugs, and ultimately, what made The event was a great success, Regeneration Agency, North West Writers’ Group, Healthy secure environment for people to them give them up. a good night out during the Living Annexe, Pathways to Progress, the WEA and Glasgow Women’s get clean from drugs, reflect on Young people benefited greatly Easter holidays and educational Library all contributed new work: short stories, rhymes, poems, their past and set new goals for from the performance and the at the same time - the young displays, and inspired the audience with their spellbinding perfor- their future. discussion. Some of the people went home with lots to mances. Once again it was a star attraction in this year’s festival The Jericho boys demonstrated performers went to Whitehill think about and the work on this programme. A big thank you to everyone who took part in the event the success of the project, and School, so for the young people theme will continue through the and made it an inspirational celebration of achievement! their personal journeys with a the closeness of their dilemma youth work programmes. Get inspired by reading the stories and poems written by the learners. play conducted by ex-addicts was felt by all. These emotionally Please go to the News and Events concentrating on the dangers of charged performances could be Contact Eileen Bell, Culture section on the Glasgow’s Learning drugs, the progression from the difference between the young and Sport, for more info: website: trying alcohol as a young person people choosing life, or choosing [email protected] www.glasgowslearning.org.uk GLASGOW EAST OUTLOOK • SUMMER 2009 • 19

NEW PLAY Thanks from Glasgow Club AREA AT The talk of the town! STRONE RD. Pool at the Bridge Two retired drivers from especially arranged at one of Councillor Frank Docherty Thanks to all members of the were instrumental in allowing us Glasgow’s biggest bus company their homes in the East End. officially opened the new play public who took the time to to demonstrate to the Assessor got the surprise of their lives George and John were area at Strone Road on give us comments and sugges- our ability to manage our recently when they received a completely overwhelmed with Monday 27 April 2009. tions that helped Glasgow partnership working thank you message with a their surprise and beamed with As a result of GCC, Land Club, Easterhouse Pool at the arrangements effectively... I was difference, thanking them for a pride when they saw it. Services’ Review of Parks and Bridge improve our services. very proud of the Team when the total of 83 years’ service “I am totally flabbergasted”, Open Spaces carried out in 2005, Your contributions and lots of Assessor commented on our between them. said George. “I didn’t expect for a key action required partnership hard work by staff in the Centre staff’s knowledge of the service George Blain (64) and John a second to see something like working with external paid off – you helped to make it and their proactive and friendly O’Gorman (64), both from this when Frank came out to organisations and other Council a double celebration by becoming approach with our important , accrued 44 years and meet with us this morning. I can’t Services to enhance the number the latest Centre to achieve Quest customers.” 39 years service driving for First believe that this message is going and quality of play areas within Registration and reaching a Quest The Bridge is the collective in Glasgow and the company to be running on buses going by the City. Councillor Docherty 72% Success Rating. name for Easterhouse Pool, joined forces with its bus my door every day – it’s just said “ this type of facility This is a great achievement, Greater Easterhouse Arts advertising partner, CBS Outdoor great.” supports the social renewal and being the highest entry level Company, Easterhouse Library Limited, to show its thanks with “This is just brilliant,” added regeneration of the East of score for a Culture and Sport and John Wheatley College a massive thank you – on the side John (who is also known as Glasgow.” Glasgow facility undergoing its Easterhouse Campus. Pictured of a bus! Jackie), “and it’s amazing that Equipment within the play area first Quest Assessment. left are the staff from Glasgow Frank McCann, Operations First, CBS and the guys at the includes a multi-use scramble Geoff Morrison, Operations Club Easterhouse Pool. Manager of Depot – depot have gone to so much and slide unit and 3 children’s Manager, said. “Our partners, For more Information about where the two drivers were based bother. I am so proud to have swing rockers. Local school including Greater Easterhouse Glasgow Club and Easterhouse – surprised George and John with been recognised in this way – children were there for the Arts Company, John Wheatley Pool speak to Geoff Morrison on the special thank you during an George and I are going to be the opening to try out the equipment, College and Easterhouse Library, 0141 276 9700. ‘official’ meeting that he had talk of the town!” which raised smiles all round. 20 • GLASGOW EAST OUTLOOK • SUMMER 2009 AREA COMMITTEE GRANTS AVAILABLE TO LOCAL COMMUNITY

GROUPS Going for Gold in Did you know that Glasgow City Council’s Area Committees have AREA COMMITTEE the East End a budget for local groups? Grants are available to enhance your Calton Area Committee covers Calton, Bridgeton, , Winning the bid to host the current activities or develop new ones. If you want to find out how Parkhead, Gallowgate, , Reidvale, Glasgow Green, 2014 Commonwealth Games in you can benefit read on. and and has an annual budget of around £77,000. Glasgow is an absolutely There’s an Area Committee for every multi-member ward in Many local groups have had grants in the Calton ward including the fantastic achievement for the Glasgow City Council, they meet every six weeks, have local Dalmarnock Centre who are creating a community gym within the East End of Glasgow and I community input and all your local Councillors are members. centre, with help from the Calton Area Committee of £7,000. With the know it something that we are Commonwealth Games coming to the area the people of Dalmarnock all very proud of! However, EAST CENTRE AREA COMMITTEE may be able to show the athletes a thing or two about fitness! everybody has been talking The East Centre Area Committee covers the areas of Dennistoun, Older people too are keeping active and helping the environment about the legacy that the , Alexandra Parade, Milnbank, , , and thanks to an £800 grant awarded to Cuthelton Social Club (pictured Games will have for Glasgow Gartcraig, and has an annual budget of around £78,000. below) to purchase garden equipment to help further develop their and we undoubtedly want to With the summer months fast approaching maybe your group is community garden. think about how we can planning a day trip to somewhere exotic ‘doon the coast’, if so grants harness a legacy of the Games are available to help with the cost of hiring a bus. for the people of the East End. Or maybe your group wants to try new activities like Milnbank The very best sports facilities Monday Club (pictured below with Councillor McDougall) who will soon be arriving in the East recently got a £1,000 award to create a photography project that the End and I am standing up to young people who attend the club will develop into a gallery make sure that the young people exhibition. in our communities will be encouraged to access them. The Gladiators project in the East End is a great example of what can be achieved when we inspire young people to believe in themselves and take advantage of every opportunity open to them. I have written to the and Glasgow City Council, calling on them to work together to guarantee that young people get free or cheap access to Again activities for young people have received funding with the all the events at the Games ever popular ‘Shoot for Success’ basketball programme receiving just Furthermore, I have appealed Funding is also available for larger projects where community groups over £1,200 to deliver an evening basketball programme from St for local young people to have work in partnership with other organisations to develop services such Mungo’s Academy for local 8 - 16 year olds. preferential access to the as the establishment of an evening youth club in Smithycroft Chair of the Committee facilities that are left behind to Secondary for the under-11 year olds. Riddrie Neighbourhood Watch Councillor Ruth Simpson explains: ensure a lasting legacy for the identified a gap in provision for this age group in the area and together ‘There are lots of groups out there East End. with funding of just over £4,000 they worked in partnership with the working hard on a voluntary basis As I said in the Chamber of the Area Committee and Culture and Sport Glasgow and are now to help improve their local area for Scottish Parliament on a debate providing weekly activities which, judging by the large attendance, are everyone and I would encourage centred on this very topic, I a huge success with the kids. them to apply to the Calton Area believe firmly that, with the right Riddrie Community Garden Project have been working tirelessly Committee for funding to help investment and support, we can over the past few years creating, developing and maintaining a continue the valuable contribution demonstrate to the world community garden within the Kennyhill allotments at Dinart Street. they make.” Glasgow’s strengths and The garden has been developed by, and is suitable for use by people So whether your group is for capacities and create a real boost with special needs. They have just received a £6,000 grant from the young people or you’re just young for the East End. Who knows, East Centre Area Committee to make it more accessible to those with at heart applying for funding is maybe we will be responsible for mobility difficulties. easy – just complete an application the sports champions of the Councillor Elaine McDougall, form and submit it together with a future! Chair of the East Centre Area copy of your constitution and bank Please don’t hesitate to contact Committee, said, “The groups who statement. Your application will be my office if you wish to discuss have benefited from grant submitted to the relevant Area this or anything else with me. assistance have a huge impact in Committee and a decision will our local area in terms of the usually be made within about six Cllr Ruth Simpson All the best, activities that they provide for the weeks. local community and it’s great that Applications are available from Karen Kenny who can also advise on MSP the East Centre Area Committee any proposed projects and assist with completing the form. Karen can 0141 771 4844 can help to develop and support be contacted by either phoning 0141 287 7864 or emailing margaret.curran.msp@ them with grant assistance.” Cllr Elaine McDougall [email protected] scottish.parliament.uk GLASGOW EAST OUTLOOK • SUMMER 2009 • 21 WORDSEARCH How do you fancy winning a £30 voucher for Boots? Complete the puzzle below and you could be lucky...

Send your completed puzzle, along with your contact details, to: Glasgow East Outlook, Marjory Smith, GERA, Westwood Business Centre, 69 Aberdalgie Road, Glasgow G34 9HJ.

All entries must be received by 30 June 2009.

We’ve hidden 14 East End street names in this grid. They U C L P F I N G A S K run up and down or sideways. Y B M O R C R E B A I See if you can find them all! N M Y R E S I D E G L ABERCROMBY AMULREE O K R C I D G R L J L DUKE A GRAND DAY OUT FINGASK T B I H D V B I A S I Winner of the meal for two generously donated by award-winning Café FRENCH Tibo, Miss Critchley of Parkhead enjoys her prize in the chic and S X U E V A Y W V E N comfortable café which is fast becoming a Glasgow institution. GLEN Tibo has been open for just over two and a half years and can be HELENVALE I Q M S A F R E N C H found on the corner of Duke Street and Hillfoot Street. For more information visit www.cafetibo.com HERMISTON KILLIN M G T T L E G C E Y O COMPETITION WINNERS MYRESIDE R L S E E K T M L D B Congratulations to Sadie Smith of Dalmarnock, who won the Marks & PORCHESTER Spencer vouchers in last issue’s WORDSEARCH. REIDVALE E E E R L U M A E F Z The winners of the Glasvegas signed T-shirts and CDs were: Carol Overend, David Gray, Eleanor Mennie, Tana Graham and S. Diamond. RIGBY Well done to all our winners, and thanks to everyone who took part! WESTMUIR H N W H A D P F H E N

CREDIT UNIONS – A SAFE AND EASY WAY TO SAVE Credit Unions are financial co-operatives owned and controlled by their members. They offer savings and great value loans and many credit unions now offer a range of services including a current account, benefits direct, ISAs and Child Trust Funds. Each credit union has a ‘common bond’ area which determines who can join it – usually people who live or work within an area or people working for the same organisation. Three Credit Unions in the East Centre & Calton Community Planning area have now joined forces to make up the new FSF Credit Union Programme, whilst still retaining their distinct individual identity. The three Credit Unions are now sharing good practice and looking at ways to develop their services. All three Credit Unions are liaising with Job Centre Plus to develop their ‘benefits direct’ service which allows childcare benefits and other benefits to be paid directly into credit union accounts. If you are interested in joining any of the Credit Unions or would like more information. Contact: Parkhead Credit Union – May Wilson 0141 551 5387 Haghill/Dennistoun Credit Union – Danny Weir 0141 554 9595 Bridgeton, Calton & Dalmarnock Credit Union – George Redmond 0141 550 4171 22 • GLASGOW EAST OUTLOOK • SUMMER 2009

Operation CLEANSWEEP

89 ARRESTS WERE MADE premises were undertaken. the Whiterose Community Centre IN GLASGOW’S EAST END 28 partners agencies were ensured that we were all on hand DURING A RECENT involved in the operation, all of taking direct steps to reduce INTENSIVE AND whom were based throughout the crime and make people feel CO-ORDINATED CRACK- week at the Whiterose better about their local DOWN ON CRIME BY Community Centre in Parkhead, community. More Gates STRATHCLYDE POLICE where members of the public “Attention was focused on AND 28 PARTNERSHIP were invited to visit and learn trouble hot spots and individuals AGENCIES. about some of the activity at first and gangs we know pose a threat than Windows! Operation Cleansweep, which hand. Over 180 schoolchildren to the community. AFTER A NUMBER OF confidence and enthusiasm and took place from 25 - 31 March in also had the opportunity to “I believe we have tackled the MONTHS PLANNING WITH now its just great to be back and around Shettleston, participate as classes of pupils issues that are of real concern to GLASGOW EAST doing what I really enjoy. and Greater and teachers also visited the the local community and the REGENERATION AGENCY, Producing a solid business plan Easterhouse, was aimed at centre every day. positive feedback I have received GEORGE SMITH BRINGS and obtaining a bit of grant tackling and reducing levels of On the Saturday and Sunday from local people and local HIS NEW BUSINESS TO THE funding really helped me on my violence, anti-social behaviour, police and partners, in particular businesses is testament to this.” GLASGOW AREA. way and I’d encourage anyone serious and organised crime, Strathclyde Fire and Rescue, as IRONMONGERY MIGHT thinking about starting their own drugs, domestic violence and well as the police mounted SOUND LIKE AN OLD- business to go along and get a bit road traffic crime in an on-going branch, dog branch and road FASHIONED TRADE BUT IN of support.” effort to make people feel safer. policing also met with local THESE ENTHUSIASTIC Whilst most of George’s work Raids were carried out on children and their parents at DAYS OF HOME AND is obviously done on–site, the homes of suspected criminals, Tollcross Leisure Centre. GARDEN IMPROVEMENT, business is based in a small known crime hot-spots were Superintendent George GEORGE’S BUSINESS, G1 business space in Glasgow’s East subject to high visibility patrols Clelland, Sub-Divisional Officer PROJECT MANAGEMENT, End. G1 Project Management and test purchases were for Shettleston, Baillieston and IS AS PERTINENT TODAY understandably aims to put undertaken at licensed premises Greater Easterhouse, said: “The AS IT EVER WAS. quality workmanship first with checking on the sale of alcohol to success of Cleansweep lay in the While George is a dab hand at reliability, tidiness and finish under-18s. close working partnership fabricating railings, garden gates always a priority. As George In total police stopped and between police and partner and the like he also counts spiral concluded, “You don’t work for searched 440 people for agencies from within the heart of staircases, window grilles and over 30 years in a trade without weapons, 652 for drugs or the community. wrought-iron fencing among his understanding the importance of alcohol and 325 visits to licensed “Centralising operations from Supt. George Clelland specialities. In fact if it involves doing a quality job. All of my wrought-iron work at all, its fair customers come to know that my to say George can probably turn work is top quality and that’s his hand to it. why I pick up so much work GETTING TOUGH WITH GANG MEMBERS “This has been a great through good ‘word-of-mouth’ opportunity for me, “ George Part of Operation Cleansweep involved a crackdown by the Community Initiative to Reduce reputation.” enthused, “ I’m a time served Violence (CIRV), the Violence Reduction Unit’s (VRU) gang violence initiative. In addition to the wrought-iron blacksmith with over 30 years of Detective Chief Inspector Andy McKay, who heads up CIRV, said the crackdown was the fulfilment work George also does loft experience, however due to a bit of a promise made at the start of the initiative. conversions, a wide range of of ill health I recently found “We said we would get tough with gang members who persisted in violent behaviour. We have made small home improvement jobs myself unemployed.” good on that promise and will continue to do so. These people are causing their communities pain - so and is happy to offer sound, “It’s difficult,” he continued, we took some of that pain back to their own front doors.” professional advice on any “in times like this its easy to CIRV works by treating the gang as a unit rather than as individuals and using the gang themselves to household building matter, no become unsure what to do for the address their own behaviour. matter how small. best. Going along to GERA and Following intelligence gathering, gang members are offered help by CIRV to find an alternative to a So, for a free, non-committal speaking to a business advisor violent gang lifestyle. They are then invited to voluntarily attend a self-referral session where they, quote contact George Smith on really injected me with along with members of other gangs, are addressed by police, healthcare workers and community 0141 574 0092 or 07806 819211. members who speak about the damage they have caused their community. A senior officer then tells them that if any of them – ARE YOU INTERESTED IN including members not present – is violent, the whole group will be STARTING YOUR OWN BUSINESS? pursued, not just the individual. This has the effect of pushing gangs Call Alan Porteous to police their own behaviour. or George Smith To date 151 gang members have become involved with CIRV, at GERA on with more joining all the time. 0141 781 2000. GLASGOW EAST OUTLOOK • SUMMER 2009 • 23 A view from the Platform A new, free Spoken Word night is taking place monthly at Platform THE ANNA MASSIE BAND visit led by Positive Mental Attitudes. Are you an aspiring writer looking Platform for the first time. Come for a supportive and appreciative audience? Come along where and join the band for a great developing writers can share their work in a relaxed and friendly evening with multi-instrumentalist environment. This event is for those of us who love to write poetry, Anna on fiddle, mandolin, tenor prose or simple observations but are new to sharing it. Come along to banjo and flat-picking guitar. Her watch, listen or be inspired to share! These events are free but you fellow musicians are Jenn must book in advance at Box Office on 0141 276 9696 (opt 1) as Butterworth, also on guitar and numbers are limited. vocals, and Mairearad Green on JUN 25 6.30 – 8.30pm, AUG 27, SEP 24 accordion and border pipes. The Anna Massie Band has made a The ever popular Dance NRG nights are back! The return of the considerable impression on the biggest and best dance event in Glasgow East for under-18s! With live international folk scene, clocking up Dubious security DJs, MCs and special guests from the club scene, this free event is numerous awards including BBC Radio2 Horizon award and Best Folk open to all youth groups. Visit www.puredancenrg.com/FREEDOM Band at the 2006 Scots Trad Music Awards. companies to find out more about coming to the biggest party in town or contact JUN 2, 7.30pm. £10/£5/£2.50 Local Links Arts Coordinator on 0141 276 9675. Is it right that local businesses MAY 29 6.30pm, JUL 3 Errol White’s dance debut performance THREE WORKS is a trilogy should be held to ransom by of dynamic works performed by a company of super dancers. This dubious security companies? Hopscotch Theatre make their sophisticated and fascinating study of identity and human vulnerability Many of us have been vaguely first visit to Platform with WHAT through the vocabulary of the body, questions how we relate to others, aware of question marks over A LOAD OF RUBBISH. It’s the works of art and to ourselves. A stunning sound score created by those providing security on story of two school children, Janet Portuguese composer Tiago Cerqueria accompanies the pieces. building sites in Glasgow. How and Mike, who go on holiday to JUN 20, 7.30pm. £8/£4.50/£3.50 LL can only one company operate in their granny’s in the country for a one area? Why do new buildings few weeks of fresh air and We’ve hooked up with some great theatre companies to give you a mysteriously burn down when tranquility. But… before they even taste of Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival right on your doorstep in a series the “wrong” security company is have time to miss their Playstations of performances called FRINGE ON TOP. All performances are free used? and the pollution of city life, they discover that something very whiffy previews and take place at lunchtime with a complimentary sandwich The pattern seems to be that an is in the air when a massive landfill site appears on the horizon. They and soft drink. You must book at the box office on 0141 276 9696 (opt organisation starts its building have to save the countryside, the world and, more importantly, granny’s 1) in advance as places are limited! project and erects fences round garden from a future catastrophe! Suitable for 5 – 10yrs. the site. Overnight signs appear MAY 30, 1.30pm, £8/£4.50/£3.50 LL FUNNY is a brand new piece of theatre by Reeling & Writhing and on the fences showing which written by Tim Nunn, one of the company’s founding directors. You security firm is protecting the Platform hosts The Bank Of Scotland Imaginate Festival On Tour shouldn’t laugh. You don’t want to laugh. But you do. Your jaws ache site. Yet no one has appointed with 2 international performances: and your eyes water. Why do we laugh? Even when we shouldn’t – them. It is their turf. Some people £8/£4.50/£3.50 LL. £2.50 per child for schools and groups auntie’s funeral, colleague’s wedding, first meal with the in-laws; why would call this a protection EXTRA OFFER – transport subsidies are available to schools and can it be impossible to control? Funny is based on real reports from racket. Even publicly funded groups, be quick as its first come first served! secret places, and the closer it gets to the truth the less you’re going to organisations can feel themselves believe it. powerless in the face of the silent STORY OF A FAMILY is by AUG 1, 12.30pm. threat to destroy their property. Italian Theatre Company I am seriously concerned about Compagnia Rodisio and is a CHRONICLES OF IRANIA by A Moment’s Peace Theatre Company this practice and want to look at delicious peek at a family through takes you on a journey, led by host Khadijeh, to a mystical place where ways of challenging it. Already I the eyes of a child. It’s hysterically truths, half-truths and un-truths circulate. Performed on a Persian rug have had a couple of meetings funny, touching and oh, so familiar this is a funny, yet urgent story about the universal search to belong, to with the police. Perhaps it will - there once was a man and a be understsood and to understand. “A blazingly vivid encounter – com- need new legislation, or perhaps woman. They kiss and get married. plete with carpets, cushions and tea.” The Scotsman **** just stricter enforcement of And soon, to crown their dream love, a beautiful little girl arrives. The AUG 3, 12.30pm. existing laws. man and the woman quickly become a beautiful dad and a beautiful Understandably, many people mum. That is - a family. Every family is different. Yet some things are ONE UP ONE DOWN by Gilmore Productions is an energetic dance are nervous about confronting the same no matter where you live. Suitable for ages 10+ performance choreographed by Natasha Gilmore, who has been called alleged “organised crime”. JUN 2, 10.30am & 1.30pm the Catherine Tate of contemporary dance. The piece is an entertaining, However, I am keen to gather funny, yet poignant look at the way we sway between the bitter con- information on these practices. Australian Company Slingsby’s demnation of one to the saccharine adoration of another. In the perfor- If anyone wants to give me story, THE TRAGICAL LIFE OF mance, Natasha creates characters set against original music by Quee information confidentially, I can CHEESEBOY, is set inside an MacArthur and poetry devised and performed by Zimbabwean perfor- then build up a more detailed enchanting travelling theatre tent. mance poet Tawona Sitholé and company. “Sizzling moments of all-out picture of what is happening. Come and discover a storyteller dancing and a strikingly poetic images” The Herald It is not acceptable that these who shares a timeless tale… AUG 7, 12.30pm. practices should continue. Cheeseboy’s home planet has been reduced to a bubbling fondue. PLATFORM KIDS ART CLUB John Mason MP Where are his parents? How did he Join Platform artists and make new friends, be creative and have lots of become marooned on earth? fun! Please wear old clothes as it can get messy. There are 2 special Member of Parliament for Gypsies have given him a home, of treats this term - on Sat 2 and 30 May, the class will be extended for an Glasgow East sorts, but Cheeseboy is tugged this hour so participants can see The Weatherman and What a Load of Glasgow East Constituency way and that by tides of strange Rubbish in our theatre. These are 2 exciting performances for children, Office longings and stranger powers. This both with environmental themes and are included in the cost of your art 888 Shettleston Road is a quirky, beautiful and very funny club ticket! The arts club is suitable for ages 5 – 11yrs. The Kids Art Glasgow G32 7XN theatre show that will transport you Club runs every Saturday till June 20, 12 -1.30pm with specially to a fantastical world of loss, extended sessions on Sat 2 and Sat 20 May. £3.50 per week. e-mail: [email protected] trickery, gypsies, discovery and, of office: 0141 778 8270 course, cheese. Suitable for 10yrs+ mobile: 07792 277614 JUN 3, 1.30pm web: www.johnmasonmp.org 24 • GLASGOW EAST OUTLOOK • SUMMER 2009

schools were joined by Margaret Curran MSP who congratulated them along with members of the congregation for their great work and said, “I am going to the parliament in Edinburgh this afternoon and I will put down a motion to make sure that everyone there will know about the wonderful young people of .” This Lenten campaign organised by the Justice and Peace Group from the Church Back-Pack Appeal encouraged everyone in the ST ROSE OF LIMA: community to participate in Best Primary School Choir in Glasgow On April 29 at 2pm the children children for their great support providing these basic necessities from both primary schools in and efforts. It was hoped that 250 for children to attend school. St Rose of Lima School Choir was voted ‘Best Primary School Barlanark in Glasgow’s East End back-packs would be donated Another incentive for the Choir in Glasgow’ at the recent Glasgow Music Festival. (Sandaig Primary and Our Lady from the Barlanark community, children and parents in the The choir has been performing in competitions and socially for a of Peace Primary) walked in fact there were almost 300! developing countries is the daily number of years. However, in its present form, under the guidance of together with back-packs on their The children from the two meal in school also provided by Class teacher Mrs Jacqueline Campbell, it has only been in existence backs to the Church of St Jude SIR. The food project is called for three years. and St John Ogilvie, Pendeen Mary’s Meals, and it costs only The choir boasts 65 members, meeting every Monday after school to Road, to hand over the packs full £6.50 to feed a child for one practise. Many members of the choir are as young as Primary 4 and for of items to encourage children of whole year. a large number of the pupils this was their first formal competition. the same age in countries like Everyone who has taken part Angelically singing ‘Ave Maria’ and ‘Here I am, Lord’ they followed Malawi and Liberia to attend in this project has enjoyed this with ‘Let all creation Rock n Roll’ while finally and prophetically school. They placed these full collecting the items for the back- winning the competition outright with a stunning version of ‘Dream a back-packs in the van organised packs and hopes to have helped Dream’. by Scottish International Relief in some small way towards The pupils are proud of their East End background and came up (SIR). The back-packs will then establishing an educated against strong competition. Dispelling the myth that all that comes be carried to children who really population which will, in time, from the east does not glitter, the pupils of St Rose of Lima need them in poor communities help alleviate the terrible poverty convincingly secured Gold and a well earned first place. around the world. A speaker from in these countries. If only singing was in the Olympics, the East End of Glasgow would SIR was present to answer More information is available have rising stars and podium finishes with the pupils of St Rose of questions and to thank the at www.mary’smeals.org Lima Primary. GLASGOW EAST OUTLOOK • SUMMER 2009 • 25

As part of the National Keep Scotland Tidy KEEP 2009 campaign Parkhill Secondary and Haghill Primary park pupils SCOTLAND worked together to do a litter-pick in Alexandra park on 23 April. TIDY The pupils undertook this with enthusiasm and removed a great deal of litter from the park.

ANTI-LITTER DEMO Next Friday, 24 April, the pupils took to the streets outside both schools for an anti-litter demo. The local community got involved with shop keepers displaying posters advertising the event, residents received anti- litter fliers and passing motorists beeped horns in support. April Spring On Tuesday 28 April, Parkhill S1 pupils joined a clean up organised by the country park Clean 2009 rangers at Dalzell Park, collecting 2 full bags of litter.

Two Old Firm superstars were at events as a way of encouraging Glasgow.” That view was echoed Glasgow Green to highlight the young people to learn, enjoy by Raymond Farrelly, initiative and offering a chance to themselves and work for Community Manager at Rangers, parade with the Co-operative certificates that prepare them for who said: “Rangers Football Insurance Cup. Mark Hateley, the life after school. Councillor Club is delighted to be involved former Rangers, AC Milan and Frank Docherty, Glasgow City in the provision of positive England striker, was there along Council’s Executive Member of activities that young people in the with George McCluskey, the the GCPP and Chair of the Local East End of Glasgow can become Celtic, Hibs and Leeds United Planning Partnership, said: “Both involved in, providing a healthy, forward, and two other Glasgow GCPP and the City Council see exciting alternative for them at superstars, Broxi Bear and imaginative initiatives like this as weekends.” Hoopy the Hound. The Youth stepping stones that encourage Weekend Diversionary Activity our youngsters to get involved in SURE FIRE WINNER initiative, backed by Glasgow activities that range from football According to the youngsters the Community Planning Partnership through to dancing. East End initiative is a sure fire (GCPP), and a number of local “They learn to work and play winner and they had a ball. Hoopy, Broxi, George McCluskey, Mark Hately and youngsters from housing associations through the together, they take on In addition to the Old Firm a Quarrybrae Primary School East End Housing Associations responsibilities and this project number of community-based Regeneration Forum (EEHARF), helps prepare them for the initiatives also provide support invites youngsters to take part in future.” Robert Docherty, head of and activities such as Urban Fox, Everyone’s a winner! training sessions with top class the Celtic Foundation, said: Shoot for Success (Basketball) For hundreds of Glasgow youngsters, it’s game on! coaches every weekend to “Celtic Football Club is delighted and Playbusters. This initiative is Young people are enjoying activities from football to encourage positive pathways to to be involved in providing co-ordinated by Sean Connor and dancing throughout the East End of the city with a progress through sport. positive opportunities for young Gary Harkins of EEHARF and project backed by both Celtic and Rangers FC. The Old Firm clubs see these people in the East End of John Wheatley College. The Awake Project at Platform TWENTY FIVE YOUNG PEOPLE FROM ALL ACROSS GLASGOW EAST – FROM BAILLIESTON TO CALTON AND CRANHILL TO ROGERFIELD – TOOK PART IN AN AMBITIOUS WEEK LONG RESIDENCY WITH A GROUP OF DYNAMIC INTERNATIONAL ARTISTS IN THE AWAKE PROJECT, TAKING PLACE AT PLATFORM OVER THE EASTER HOLIDAYS. The project focused around physical theatre including parcour (urban running), dance, music and fire effects. It culminated in a dramatic promenade performance based on Ibsen’s Peer Gynt that took in all the spaces of the Bridge including the swimming pool and library as well as the café and theatre spaces. The project encouraged young people to explore their own identity and the choices they have to make growing up in Glasgow Participants raved about the experience saying things like • It’s strengthened my future career • It gave more confidence • I did things I’d never do before and made new friends • Being able to meet people from all over the world, learning things I’ve never done • A once in a lifetime experience The young people will be tracked over the next 5 years to see how this experience will have an effect on some of the life choices they make in the future. 26 • GLASGOW EAST OUTLOOK • SUMMER 2009 FUTURE JOBS BOOST FOR EAST END Glasgow East launch for employment initiative HUNDREDS OF Jim Murphy used his visit to people on benefits who would Parkhead to formally announce otherwise be unable to find work. “The Future Jobs Trust has the potential to help thousands of JOBS FOR the detail of the Future Jobs That’s exactly the right thing to young Scots... providing real help now to jobseekers and other PEOPLE AGED Fund, a £1 billion initiative be doing in these difficult times,” people on benefits who would otherwise be unable to find work.” created as a result of the Budget. said Mr Murphy. “Anything we Jim Murphy, Secretary of State for Scotland UNDER 25 The new fund will provide can do to make sure more people, COULD BE funding for around 150,000 jobs particularly those aged 18 - 24 for several months before she interested in the other things we CREATED IN or work-focused training across who have been unemployed for registered with Glasgow East have done as a result of working, the UK, aimed at 18 to 24 year around a year, are able to take up Regeneration Agency, and that’s such as Gary having now passed THE EAST END olds before they reach the 12 new jobs or training, will provide when things started taking off. his driving test and Ian had been OF GLASGOW month stage of a Jobseekers valuable support to those who “I had got to the stage where accepted into college.” Allowance claim. £95 million has have been out of work and on employers weren’t even replying AS PART OF A been made available for Scots benefit for around a year, helping to my job applications, and INSPIRATIONAL UK-WIDE jobseekers and employers, and to ensure they do not lose touch obviously your confidence takes The Secretary of State was INITIATIVE the Minister is confident with the labour market.” a hit,” said Cheryl, 19. “My enormously impressed by the Glasgow East can benefit. adviser at GERA helped me to experiences and attitude of ANNOUNCED “The Future Jobs Trust has the WORK EXPERIENCES work on my confidence, and the everyone he met. BY THE potential to help thousands of The Minister used his visit to turning point was when I started “They were all inspirational young Scots across the country Parkhead Jobcentreplus to meet a work through East Works (a and should be proud. This new SECRETARY OF by providing around £95m of group of young jobseekers and to transitional employment initiative fund should ensure that in future STATE FOR additional support. The fund is hear about their experiences of that enabled Cheryl to go on young and disadvantaged people SCOTLAND. focused on providing real help trying to find work. Cheryl work placement while earning a do not fall behind when it comes now to jobseekers and other Cameron had been unemployed real wage). I worked on to employment. No-one wants to placement at GERA in see that and I hope Scottish local Easterhouse then at Greater authorities and other relevant Easterhouse Money Advice organisations will be active in SURGERIES Project. I was able to tell the bidding for the new funding. Minister that I had just been “It’s important we offer a FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH offered a full time contract and helping hand to everyone looking 10.30am Baillieston Social Work, was starting work next week. He for work – this is just one of the Buchanan Street, Baillieston was really pleased for me and ways this Government is acting 1pm Mount Vernon Hall, Mt Vernon Park wished me all the best with it.” on its pledges to do that.” 2pm Family Learning Centre, Three young people, Mark David Collie, District Manager Hallhill Road, Budhill Lyons, 24, Ian McNeish, 18, for Jobcentreplus, hosted the visit SECOND MONDAY OF THE MONTH Gary Blaylock,18, and Darren to highlight the Traffic Light 11am Westwood Business Centre, Wilson,18, had all been Initiative, a scheme which 69 Aberdalgie Road, Easterhouse unemployed for several months provides support for young 3pm Community Centre, before being employed by GERA jobseekers in preparing them for Hillcrest Road, Carmyle as Community Janitors. “The entry onto the job market. 4pm Broomhouse Hall, Broomhouse Minister listened to the points we “We were delighted to made about how difficult it was welcome the Secretary of State FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH being young and unemployed, to witness how our close Margaret Curran MSP 11am St Andrews Church, and he was really interested in partnership with Glasgow East Member of the Scottish Parliament for Church Street, Baillieston how projects like East Works and Regeneration Agency is Glasgow Baillieston Constituency Community Janitors had made genuinely helping local young THIRD SATURDAY OF THE MONTH such a difference,” said Mark, people into full time work.” 10am St Andrew’s from Parkhead. “He was really YOUR MSP DEALS WITH MATTERS Secondary School, INCLUDING HEALTH, EDUCATION, Torphin Crescent, TRANSPORT, LAW AND ORDER. Carntyne

PLEASE CONTACT ME IF YOU HAVE ANYTHING YOU WISH TO DISCUSS.

Westwood Business Centre, 69 Aberdalgie Road, Easterhouse Tel: 0141 771 4844. Mobile: 0791 7052241 [email protected] margaret.curran.msp.co.uk GLASGOW EAST OUTLOOK • SUMMER 2009 • 27

Frank McAveety MSP with local activist Kenneth Faulds Councillor Purcell received the award on behalf of Glasgow City Council

THE SCOTTISH LIVING WAGE EMPLOYER AWARD Dalmarnock Community EXAMPLE employers, both public and legacy for local people after the the area who want to make Centre was the venue for an Peter Kelly, director of the private, that low pay is a problem 2014 Commonwealth Games. change happen and offer support enthusiastic launch of the Poverty Alliance, who presented that they can and must deal to people to help them Scottish Living Wage Employer Cllr Purcell with the award, said, with.” INSPIRATION participate. By establishing a Award. This new award is “This is an important The event also saw the launch Kenny told the group how they Young Leaders forum we believe being made to employers who development from Glasgow City of the Dalmarnock Futures had been inspired by the London we can deliver significant pay the Scottish Living Wage Council. Low wages remain a Forum 2014. Local activist Citizens group and how they benefits for the area.” Kenny can Campaign’s target figure of significant contributor to the Kenneth Faulds provided the wished to ensure local people had be contacted via the Dalmarnock £7.00 an hour, and who also overall problem of poverty. By audience with an overview of the significant input to ensuring a Centre and would love to hear meet good practice in relation taking this step Glasgow City development of a local group local legacy. from anyone interested in getting to paid holidays and trade Council has set an example to all who wish to secure a lasting “We want to identify people in involved on 0141 556 4776. union access. The event was well attended by local people, organisations from all sectors and elected members from Glasgow City Council and the Scottish parliament.

AWARD Councillor Purcell received the award on behalf of Glasgow City Council, the first in Scotland to raise the minimum wage from the nationally set £5.52 an hour in March 2009. He said: “It is simply unacceptable that almost one in five of Glasgow’s workers are paid less than £7 per hour and the Glasgow living wage has the potential to make a huge difference to thousands of families. “The introduction of a living wage can also provide real benefits to employers in terms of staff morale, productivity and quality. “In times of economic difficulties, we know that the lowest paid workers suffer disproportionately. I believe that the introduction of the Glasgow Living Wage is the right thing to do and it is another vital step towards ensuring that all of our citizens can share in the city’s success.” 28 • GLASGOW EAST OUTLOOK • SUMMER 2009

MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS!

A Dead Good Idea Got a business idea and not People are dying to do business Dead Good Coffin Company. she produced a business plan and with Sharon Caddie – literally. Through a unique design process, fully investigated the potential sure how to go about it? The reason behind this is the company can create an almost and financial viability of her idea simple. Sharon makes coffins. limitless array of coffin finishes. and now she’s ready to meet the Feel you have what it takes to be But not just any kind of The Dead Good Coffin demands of such a difficult, coffins; we’re talking Company’s designs encapsulate personal market head on. your own boss but need some help distinctive, attractive, anything from football colours Does it go against tradition? getting things off the ground? personalized, dare we say it... and tartans, to photo-montages Yes. Will it be everyone’s cup of cool coffins. and popular artistic references. tea? Possibly not. However Now this might all sound a bit Really the choice is yours, the there’s an air of thoughtfulness Glasgow East Regeneration Agency strange and ‘different’ to most of only fixed aspect of the service is and compassion about this has advisors that can help you; you out there. However Sharon is the personal care and sensitivity business. Hopefully people will convinced that there is a real that the Company puts into every see the attraction of personal • Create your idea market for stylish, customized, order. choice in a circumstance where • Develop a business plan eco-friendly coffins. She is well Sharon went on to say, “While previously there was none. • Access finance used to the funny looks when she I know through experience that a For pet lovers Sharon also • Move your business forward tells people what her business is bereavement is a terribly sad time hopes to have a range of smaller all about and she can’t help a for friends and family of the coffins available very shortly. If For friendly, informal advice contact small smile when she talks about deceased, I also fully believe that you’re interested in the idea of a it. “ People don’t realize that it should be a celebration of their personalized coffin or want more Alan or George on 0141 781 2000. when you’re arranging a funeral life. I can’t think of a more information about the Dead Good you do have a degree of choice in touching tribute to someone’s Coffin Company contact Sharon the coffin you finally pick,” she personality than to choose a on 07979 363288 or visit their explained, “ unfortunately most coffin for a loved one, or indeed website at of the usual options are yourself, with a fitting design www.deadgoodcoffins.com impersonal, expensive and say that reflects their life, interests As Sharon concludes, “We absolutely nothing of the person and the kind of person they were. have no choice or control over involved.” The creation of the Dead Good how we come into this world, it’s In order to meet the demand of Coffin Company is the end of a a nice thought that we do so GERA - start as you mean to go on! those looking for a more ‘fitting’ long and careful process for when we leave it.” send off, Sharon has formed the Sharon.With the help of GERA

To contact the Outlook: Marjory Smith, Glasgow East Regeneration Agency TO SUBMIT ARTICLES TO THE OUTLOOK: Westwood Business Centre, 69 Aberdalgie Road, Easterhouse ANY MATERIAL OR ARTICLES FOR THE NEXT ISSUE MUST BE Glasgow G34 9HJ. Tel: 0141 781 2024. E-mail: [email protected] SUBMITTED BY 1 JULY 2009. FOR MORE INFORMATION www.gera.org.uk CONTACT MARJORY SMITH ON 0141 781 2024. To contact Glasgow Community Planning Limited: TO ADVERTISE IN THE OUTLOOK, CALL GINA IRELAND AT Glasgow Community Planning Limited CONTACT PUBLICITY ON 0141 204 2042. Westwood Business Centre, 69 Aberdalgie Road, Easterhouse Glasgow G34 9HJ. Tel: 0141 771 9338 www.gcpl.org.uk GCPL is a registered charity. Reg. No. SC187599. Scottish Charity No. 028075