Scottish Natural Heritage along with the Highland Council Easter Ross Ranger, Martin Hind, would like to invite local people and interested walkers to a day out on Ben Wyvis. Peter Duncan, the Reserves Manager and Martin Hind will be providing information about the natural heritage, the local landforms and the human impacts on the reserve and how it is to be managed to help enhance Ben Wyvis’s important features. Some biological recording will also be undertaken to update the NNR species list.
Details:
Starting point will be from the FCS Ben Wyvis Garbat car park (Grid Red NH 412 673) at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday 23rd May. Due to the nature of the terrain participants will require to be fairly physically fit as, if time and weather allows, we will hopefully visit the top of An Cabar which is at 946 m. Suitable outdoor clothing and footwear, binoculars (if possible) and packed lunch will be required. The event should last around five hours and, at about 4 p.m., it is planned to return to the Crannach Field Centre in Garve for tea, coffee, biscuits and sausage rolls and to discuss aspects of the day.
Booking:
Booking essential and please book with the SNH Aviemore office on 01479 810 477 to confirm a place or mailto:east_highland@snh.gov.uk before Wednesday 19th May.
There will be a maximum of 20 participants and a minimum of 10 for the event to proceed.
Announcement: dissolution of the Garve and District Community Council
The Garve and District Community Council was dissolved with effect at the last meeting (6 April).
This means that new councillors will be elected, and details will shortly be issued by Highland Council, and will be published here, in the newsletter and relevant local media.
In the meantime, if you have any queries please direct these to:
Robbie Bain
Ward Manager (Wester Ross, Strathpeffer & Lochalsh), Chief Executive's Service,
The Highland Council,
Council Offices,
High Street,
Dingwall, IV15 9QN.
Tel: (01349) 868626
Garve and District Community Council - minutes
Draft Minutes
Newsletter Sub Committee
1st December 2009
Present:
Helen Grainge, Harry Grainge, Sheree Grant, Jackie West, Marion Taylor, Pam Morrison, Kenny Maclean, Jim Curry, Debbie Peters.
Jackie informed meeting that she had participate in conference call with George Seligman and Peter Burrows-Smith with regards to new copier and the different options available. After discussion it was felt that perhaps a colour copier was going to prove to be very expensive as the cost per copy was high. We are now going to look at new or reconditioned black and white copier with the help of Peter Burrows-Smith, who George Seligman has requested gives us his expertise/assistance in purchasing such equipment. We will need to investigate if Grant funding is available for reconditioned machine.
Discussion about increase in cost of magazine, agree to charge 35p per copy. Invoice to be issued to all retailers of the magazine, retailer will be able to keep 5p per copy or donate to senior citizens fund. All cheques for magazine to be given to Marion to bank in new account set up for magazine.
Date of Next Meeting after CC Meeting on 2nd February 2010.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Draft Minutes
Newsletter Sub
Committee
2nd February 2010
Present:
Helen Grainge, Harry Grainge, Sheree Grant, Jackie West, Marion Taylor, John Urquhart, Jim Curry
Apologies:
Uisdean Menzies
Jackie indicated that she requires help with the Newsletter as she is extremely busy with her own work and will only be able to complete two more issues. She will advertise in the next issue to see if we can get a replacement editor. She is looking for help with typing. Sheree to provide minutes on publisher or just as text in email. We are seeking more contributors for the newsletter, members to encourage as many people as the can to contribute.
Sheree to look at cost of paper try and source a cheaper supplier.
Helen to let Marion know who invoices have been sent to so that she can ensure we have received payment.
Date of Next Meeting after CC Meeting on 6th April 2010.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Draft Minutes
Garve & District Community Council
2nd February 2010
Present:
Helen Grainge, Marion Taylor, Sue Tarr, Sheree Grant, Jennifer Haslam Jimmy Ruggles-Brise, John Urquhart
In attendance:
20 Members of the Public, Cllr Urquhart, Robbie Bain
Apologies:
Uisdean Menzies Jean Bailey, Alex Mackenzie
Approval of Draft Minutes of Previous Meeting
Proposed Jennifer Haslam. Seconded Marion Taylor
Matters Arising
Kenneth Maclean has written to the Community Council seeking co-option on to the council. It was agreed that members would be sent a ballot paper to make this decision.
Helen made a personal statement with regards to the recent correspondence that members of the community had received with regards to the Corriemoillie Windfarm development; she would like to make it clear that this did not come from her despite it having her name on it as a contact. An email has been received from Donald Northwood with regards to this correspondence and was read out to the meeting.
Christmas Fair – very successful, the Community Council would like to thank all those who attended, contributed and helped in any way. Funds raised from the Fair were £789. Robbie Bain will arrange a meeting with Scottish Community Foundation (SCF).
Steve Jones has sent a document to the Community Council setting out information on the formation of Charitable Trusts.
Gorstan junction – Robbie Bain suggested that we invite Transerv to next meeting.
Robbie Bain will investigate the rubbish at lay-by near old church.
Local Directory – community council looking for volunteers for this project.
Rural Watch – PC Carrie Shanks still on sick leave. Helen outlined some ideas for this project, which included the need for co-ordinators in both Garve and Achnasheen areas.
Treasurers Report
Main Account £1437.97
Senior Citizens £899.79
War Memorial £156.70
Newsletter £1186.37
Correspondence
See Appendix to Minutes
AOB
Members of the Community were concerned that the Community Council had not been in correspondence with Highland Council, with regards to the Corriemoillie Windfarm development. It was pointed out that we had written to Highland Council on the 6th October 2009 stating that the position regarding Windfarm development remained unchanged, people felt that we should now write again as the planning application had now been submitted. There followed much discussion about the development, Matilda Urie, representative from Eon, also pointed out benefits of Windfarm development.
One member of the community asked if everyone felt the same with regards to the development (that they were against it); one member stood up and said that she was for the development. It was agreed that a letter would again be written to Highland Council, stating the position of those attending the Community Council meeting.
Question was raised about Community Benefit from development; Matilda explained that sums were based on industry standard.
Sue will be attending Wester Ross Alliance meeting next week.
Bus Stops – still no news, Sheree will contact Transerv and report back at next meeting.
Date of Next Meeting 6th April 2010 Achnasheen Village Hall
Appendix 1
Correspondence received:
Temporary Closure of Lochluichart Post Office
Planning List – Windfarm application, for Corriemoillie, Garve.
Accommodation above the Cottage, Achnasheen
NHS – Newsletters
SNH – Golden Eagles information
SEPA – magazine
Peter Peacock – Upgrading of Broadband and Leader money available for
this project
Highland Council – Quality Awards – winners
Highland Environmental Network – newsletter
Newsletter Sub Committee
1st December 2009
Present:
Helen Grainge, Harry Grainge, Sheree Grant, Jackie West, Marion Taylor, Pam Morrison, Kenny Maclean, Jim Curry, Debbie Peters.
Jackie informed meeting that she had participate in conference call with George Seligman and Peter Burrows-Smith with regards to new copier and the different options available. After discussion it was felt that perhaps a colour copier was going to prove to be very expensive as the cost per copy was high. We are now going to look at new or reconditioned black and white copier with the help of Peter Burrows-Smith, who George Seligman has requested gives us his expertise/assistance in purchasing such equipment. We will need to investigate if Grant funding is available for reconditioned machine.
Discussion about increase in cost of magazine, agree to charge 35p per copy. Invoice to be issued to all retailers of the magazine, retailer will be able to keep 5p per copy or donate to senior citizens fund. All cheques for magazine to be given to Marion to bank in new account set up for magazine.
Date of Next Meeting after CC Meeting on 2nd February 2010.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Draft Minutes
Newsletter Sub
Committee
2nd February 2010
Present:
Helen Grainge, Harry Grainge, Sheree Grant, Jackie West, Marion Taylor, John Urquhart, Jim Curry
Apologies:
Uisdean Menzies
Jackie indicated that she requires help with the Newsletter as she is extremely busy with her own work and will only be able to complete two more issues. She will advertise in the next issue to see if we can get a replacement editor. She is looking for help with typing. Sheree to provide minutes on publisher or just as text in email. We are seeking more contributors for the newsletter, members to encourage as many people as the can to contribute.
Sheree to look at cost of paper try and source a cheaper supplier.
Helen to let Marion know who invoices have been sent to so that she can ensure we have received payment.
Date of Next Meeting after CC Meeting on 6th April 2010.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Draft Minutes
Garve & District Community Council
2nd February 2010
Present:
Helen Grainge, Marion Taylor, Sue Tarr, Sheree Grant, Jennifer Haslam Jimmy Ruggles-Brise, John Urquhart
In attendance:
20 Members of the Public, Cllr Urquhart, Robbie Bain
Apologies:
Uisdean Menzies Jean Bailey, Alex Mackenzie
Approval of Draft Minutes of Previous Meeting
Proposed Jennifer Haslam. Seconded Marion Taylor
Matters Arising
Kenneth Maclean has written to the Community Council seeking co-option on to the council. It was agreed that members would be sent a ballot paper to make this decision.
Helen made a personal statement with regards to the recent correspondence that members of the community had received with regards to the Corriemoillie Windfarm development; she would like to make it clear that this did not come from her despite it having her name on it as a contact. An email has been received from Donald Northwood with regards to this correspondence and was read out to the meeting.
Christmas Fair – very successful, the Community Council would like to thank all those who attended, contributed and helped in any way. Funds raised from the Fair were £789. Robbie Bain will arrange a meeting with Scottish Community Foundation (SCF).
Steve Jones has sent a document to the Community Council setting out information on the formation of Charitable Trusts.
Gorstan junction – Robbie Bain suggested that we invite Transerv to next meeting.
Robbie Bain will investigate the rubbish at lay-by near old church.
Local Directory – community council looking for volunteers for this project.
Rural Watch – PC Carrie Shanks still on sick leave. Helen outlined some ideas for this project, which included the need for co-ordinators in both Garve and Achnasheen areas.
Treasurers Report
Main Account £1437.97
Senior Citizens £899.79
War Memorial £156.70
Newsletter £1186.37
Correspondence
See Appendix to Minutes
AOB
Members of the Community were concerned that the Community Council had not been in correspondence with Highland Council, with regards to the Corriemoillie Windfarm development. It was pointed out that we had written to Highland Council on the 6th October 2009 stating that the position regarding Windfarm development remained unchanged, people felt that we should now write again as the planning application had now been submitted. There followed much discussion about the development, Matilda Urie, representative from Eon, also pointed out benefits of Windfarm development.
One member of the community asked if everyone felt the same with regards to the development (that they were against it); one member stood up and said that she was for the development. It was agreed that a letter would again be written to Highland Council, stating the position of those attending the Community Council meeting.
Question was raised about Community Benefit from development; Matilda explained that sums were based on industry standard.
Sue will be attending Wester Ross Alliance meeting next week.
Bus Stops – still no news, Sheree will contact Transerv and report back at next meeting.
Date of Next Meeting 6th April 2010 Achnasheen Village Hall
Appendix 1
Correspondence received:
Temporary Closure of Lochluichart Post Office
Planning List – Windfarm application, for Corriemoillie, Garve.
Accommodation above the Cottage, Achnasheen
NHS – Newsletters
SNH – Golden Eagles information
SEPA – magazine
Peter Peacock – Upgrading of Broadband and Leader money available for
this project
Highland Council – Quality Awards – winners
Highland Environmental Network – newsletter
From the desk of the editor
Hello!
I hope, by the time you read this, the weather will have settled - what a long and challenging winter it’s been!
My spirits were lifted somewhat, when the last issue of the newsletter came through my door.
I never see the printed copy until you do - and I’m sure you’ll agree that Harry excelled himself, by adding the SNH leaflet on Golden Eagles as a wrap-around. (Thanks also to Pam, who gave Harry the inspiration!)
In fact, we’d like to encourage anyone who has a similar size leaflet (A4 folded to A5) in colour to consider using the newsletter to advertise.
So if you’re interested do contact us - the charge for this type of wrap-around will be £120 for one issue - with a discount for series (not consecutive, for obvious reasons).
We’ve decided to continue producing the newsletter in black/white - so a colourful wrap-around will certainly make a difference. However, I should point out that acceptance is subject to approval of content, and we will require to see the leaflet prior to accepting any booking.
Our advertising bookings are really healthy at the present time (a big thank you to all our advertisers!). Although we welcome more, so don’t let that stop you! As you know all advertising monies pay for the production of this newsletter, and the upkeep of the copier (which is on it’s last legs).
However, I’ve been told that some people have been grumbling that there’s not much editorial. Well, what can I say to you? Except if you want more articles and news, please put pen to paper. You’ll be welcome.
After receiving this comment, I checked the last issue, for my own sanity - and I can confirm that 30% of the newsletter contained advertising, with 70% editorial. If you check publishing industry standards, or even other magazines, you’ll find that these figures are just about right for balance, and revenue considerations.
I’m not going to rant - but folks, if you want more, then I’m afraid you’ll have to start contributing. Pam, Charlotte, David, Laura, Fraser, Uisdean, Jim and Helen are fantastic at keeping the newsletter going with their contributions (and of course, as you’ve probably noticed I tend to contribute as well!), but it would be even better if more of you got involved. It doesn’t have to be for every issue - once or twice a year will do. And, you don’t have to be a writer either - just write in your own words and I’ll sort it out for you (that’s my job). Easy!
And, if you’d like your own regular column - just let me have your ideas.
On another matter, Helen has been endeavouring to get Carrie Shanks to the CC meetings, to give us some guidance on Rural Watch. This is something we’d like to introduce, following some concerning incidents
in the community.
Unfortunately, Carrie has been ill, and so we’re no further forward…. All is not lost, Helen has put forward some notes to kick-start the process:
*There would need to be a co-ordinator for each village.
*Co-ordinators would be required to communicate relevant crime and
community safety information, crime prevention initiatives etc.
*Co-ordinators would liaise with police and local authority, and
encourage the community to report anything suspicious.
* Co-ordinators will be a point of contact for the community and the
police.
If you’re interested in volunteering to take part in this scheme, and make it happen, come along to the CC meeting in Achnasheen on the 6 April, where it will be discussed - we are hoping Carrie will be able to attend.
Finally, you will have seen the advert for a new editor - I’ll be here for the next few issues until hand-over - so if there’s anyone out there wishing to take on this role please step forward…
All the best to you all!
Jackie
STOP PRESS:
The newsletter will continue, and we'll keep you posted of the election procedure.
In addition, as no-one has stepped forward to take on the role of editor, I shall continue in post for the time being. Volunteers to be part of the newsletter team are welcome - whatever you can do to help will be very welcome. Next newsletter meeting is being held on Friday 23 April, Achnasheen Village Hall from 7pm.
I hope, by the time you read this, the weather will have settled - what a long and challenging winter it’s been!
My spirits were lifted somewhat, when the last issue of the newsletter came through my door.
I never see the printed copy until you do - and I’m sure you’ll agree that Harry excelled himself, by adding the SNH leaflet on Golden Eagles as a wrap-around. (Thanks also to Pam, who gave Harry the inspiration!)
So if you’re interested do contact us - the charge for this type of wrap-around will be £120 for one issue - with a discount for series (not consecutive, for obvious reasons).
We’ve decided to continue producing the newsletter in black/white - so a colourful wrap-around will certainly make a difference. However, I should point out that acceptance is subject to approval of content, and we will require to see the leaflet prior to accepting any booking.
Our advertising bookings are really healthy at the present time (a big thank you to all our advertisers!). Although we welcome more, so don’t let that stop you! As you know all advertising monies pay for the production of this newsletter, and the upkeep of the copier (which is on it’s last legs).
However, I’ve been told that some people have been grumbling that there’s not much editorial. Well, what can I say to you? Except if you want more articles and news, please put pen to paper. You’ll be welcome.
After receiving this comment, I checked the last issue, for my own sanity - and I can confirm that 30% of the newsletter contained advertising, with 70% editorial. If you check publishing industry standards, or even other magazines, you’ll find that these figures are just about right for balance, and revenue considerations.
I’m not going to rant - but folks, if you want more, then I’m afraid you’ll have to start contributing. Pam, Charlotte, David, Laura, Fraser, Uisdean, Jim and Helen are fantastic at keeping the newsletter going with their contributions (and of course, as you’ve probably noticed I tend to contribute as well!), but it would be even better if more of you got involved. It doesn’t have to be for every issue - once or twice a year will do. And, you don’t have to be a writer either - just write in your own words and I’ll sort it out for you (that’s my job). Easy!
And, if you’d like your own regular column - just let me have your ideas.
On another matter, Helen has been endeavouring to get Carrie Shanks to the CC meetings, to give us some guidance on Rural Watch. This is something we’d like to introduce, following some concerning incidents
in the community.
Unfortunately, Carrie has been ill, and so we’re no further forward…. All is not lost, Helen has put forward some notes to kick-start the process:
*There would need to be a co-ordinator for each village.
*Co-ordinators would be required to communicate relevant crime and
community safety information, crime prevention initiatives etc.
*Co-ordinators would liaise with police and local authority, and
encourage the community to report anything suspicious.
* Co-ordinators will be a point of contact for the community and the
police.
If you’re interested in volunteering to take part in this scheme, and make it happen, come along to the CC meeting in Achnasheen on the 6 April, where it will be discussed - we are hoping Carrie will be able to attend.
Finally, you will have seen the advert for a new editor - I’ll be here for the next few issues until hand-over - so if there’s anyone out there wishing to take on this role please step forward…
All the best to you all!
Jackie
STOP PRESS:
Since this article and the newsletter itself was published, the Garve and District Community Council has ceased to be - pending re-election of new councillors.
This should all be done and dusted towards the end of July. Full details will be contained in the next newsletter and updated here.
In addition, as no-one has stepped forward to take on the role of editor, I shall continue in post for the time being. Volunteers to be part of the newsletter team are welcome - whatever you can do to help will be very welcome. Next newsletter meeting is being held on Friday 23 April, Achnasheen Village Hall from 7pm.
The Final Leap: two monarchs
With the North wind howling outside it is lovely to have my feet resting near to the burner, on a wee log, and dreaming the dream of days gone by.
A wee story comes to mind of a day by the river, not long ago...
So as the snow outside retreats up the Ben, no longer a carpet of pure white snow more a thread bare rug discarded across the glen. Let me tell you of a day in the magical mountains of Scotland.
As I made my way down the moss covered bank, I pushed gently on the silver birch branch in front of me. I knew at once this was a place I wanted to sit and watch a while. A wee golden pool, at the foot of a waterfall was visible through the wood lined banks.
The silver birch was in full leafed splendour, and here and there spindly branches leaned out across the peaty water, and dipped their tips into the warm water. The sky above was filled with a moon so large that it felt you could leap on it, and go for a night ride across the sky. The wee river leading from the pool was bubbling and dancing around large rocks in it’s way under the moon light.
As I made my way to the edge of the pool, I could see some slight movement from the surface of the pool, so I carefully took my seat and focused on the spot.
For the next couple of seconds nothing stirred in this wee piece of heaven…. Then, YES!
I was sure it was. It was a salmon, one of the monarchs of the mountains, a fish that I believe embodies all about us Scots. A great wanderer, a fighter, and such passion to reach the place of its birth.
So, as I sat there every nerve a tingle, the joy at being able to witness the return of this great fish.
His head out of the water, looking at the waterfall for the way forward over this last great barrier, to the pool of his birth less than 20 yards away.
The journey he had just completed seemed to flash in his eye a journey of thousands of oceanic miles or more, perils and dangers than he cared not to think off, the day he had finally spotted the river estuary but he had made it and with a final sum of his energy he knew he would be there soon..
He seemed to gaze at me for a split second then with all his reserved energy he began to climb out of the water twisting this way and that in an effort to release all the energy at one single explosion and almost as if in slow motion he gained high first one foot then another and just as it seemed he would make it he fell backwards into the pool
I watched as for a couple of minutes no movement on the pool I feared he had used all his energy and with a hint off sadness I looked to the moon still beaming still beaming how many times had you seen this journey I thought .
Then a slight movement in the golden bubbly waters and I knew he was back (like I said a true SCOT) the battle was not over and with an even more dramatic burst of power he leapt clean 3 foot in the air and with the moon shining brighter as if in encouragement a final splash at the surface he made it and with a quick glance backwards to me he headed to the pool of his birth there in the magical mountains of the northern country of Scotland.
Then from nowhere fish, first one or two, then what seemed hundreds, filled the pool and started to scale the waterfall from all angles. Fish leapt and failed the jump, then more would leap and some succeeded. This seem to send more and more, until they seemed to take the barrier in their stride but a few with every ounce of energy spent drifted to the bank DEAD and DYING...
At that moment, I was about to get and go home, when from the corner of my eye two huge yellow things seemed to fall from the sky.
The moon was hidden behind a wandering cloud, but still enough light escaped to allow me to see what it was.
An eagle larger and more colourful than I have ever seen, swooped legs stretched out talons at the ready, wings folded back plummeted through the gap in the trees and, with an amazing accuracy, landed on one of
the floundering fish and gently came to earth his meal well and truly secure.
With a loud call that reverberated across the glen he tucked into his meal one monarch feeding another. The way it has always been.
Andrew Lowe, Aka The Dafthermit
Wildlife & Nature
When you live in a wide, sweeping valley, it's often difficult to imagine life beyond it.
Looking to Beinn Fannich - who sits snow-spattered and sulking out my back garden - I can't help but be amazed at the sustained cold snap we've had over the last couple of months... my native Fife ran out of
salt - the poor wee souls. It makes you wonder how life, as we understand it, could have gone on in the time before gritters.
My theory is that as we get more and more creature comforts, we are desensitised to the more natural existence our forebears led.
I find myself wondering if those frost-dusted does and stags up on the shoulder of the hill are aware that this winter has been one "like we had in the Eighties", as I heard one radio weather person say? An "80's Style Winter" what exactly does that mean?
Likely they are not aware; I do fear for them, though. They won't have concepts such as 'a hard winter' - they get on, just as we do, with the business of surviving it. They won't be affected too much by snow covered paths or impassable roads: they have nature's version of a (quite effective) four-wheel drive. Unlike us, however, when their food is covered by 2-3 foot of snow the deer can't just pop to the nearest store and buy provisions.
Nature, despite the stark beauty of her in her winter aspect, is both a poor host and a cruel mistress.
Her cycle of renewal and re-growth has falteringly begun - albeit belatedly - for this year and the creatures who huddled close to us in our 'boxes' are answering the call. Our nightly visits from deer have tailed off, as they are now better able to cope with the forage on the hills, and no longer seem to need whatever titbits we could spare them.
Soon we'll be back to our usual 4-days-of-rain-in-7, and quite frankly, I'll be glad.
Here, in Fionn's shadow, the birds are somewhat tentatively thronging in their customary prenuptial spring routine. A woman on the west edge of the village sent me this picture of a Sparrowhawk.
I was initially a little unsure of which species it was, because of the irregular pale scapular feathers, so Eoghain MacLean (www.eoghainmacleanphotography.co.uk) was consulted, confirmed the 'spot'. The Sparrowhawk is only playing its part in the cycle, and had no doubt appeared in response to the imminent Spring frenzy from the bird population. All part of the natural checks and balances which we must all be bound by.
The Siskins are back and coping well with the relocation of our seed-feeders (we had to move the front one as the stags trashed its predecessor, whilst trying to get at the contents!
We may also have a flock (cloud, cluster, merl, keg?) of Blackbirds!
Our Buzzards have reappeared and can be seen idly wheeling in the sky, well, the Buzzards and something occasionally glimpsed which is significantly larger...
Not long until the first greening tips will be visible on the trees and this sepia stained landscape gives our eyes (and our souls) a much-needed blast of colour!
Don't worry.
Spring's eventually going to make it, and with any luck, the only real casualties will be the Midge population!
Jim Curry
Looking to Beinn Fannich - who sits snow-spattered and sulking out my back garden - I can't help but be amazed at the sustained cold snap we've had over the last couple of months... my native Fife ran out of
salt - the poor wee souls. It makes you wonder how life, as we understand it, could have gone on in the time before gritters.
My theory is that as we get more and more creature comforts, we are desensitised to the more natural existence our forebears led.
Likely they are not aware; I do fear for them, though. They won't have concepts such as 'a hard winter' - they get on, just as we do, with the business of surviving it. They won't be affected too much by snow covered paths or impassable roads: they have nature's version of a (quite effective) four-wheel drive. Unlike us, however, when their food is covered by 2-3 foot of snow the deer can't just pop to the nearest store and buy provisions.
Nature, despite the stark beauty of her in her winter aspect, is both a poor host and a cruel mistress.
Her cycle of renewal and re-growth has falteringly begun - albeit belatedly - for this year and the creatures who huddled close to us in our 'boxes' are answering the call. Our nightly visits from deer have tailed off, as they are now better able to cope with the forage on the hills, and no longer seem to need whatever titbits we could spare them.
Soon we'll be back to our usual 4-days-of-rain-in-7, and quite frankly, I'll be glad.
Here, in Fionn's shadow, the birds are somewhat tentatively thronging in their customary prenuptial spring routine. A woman on the west edge of the village sent me this picture of a Sparrowhawk.
The Siskins are back and coping well with the relocation of our seed-feeders (we had to move the front one as the stags trashed its predecessor, whilst trying to get at the contents!
We may also have a flock (cloud, cluster, merl, keg?) of Blackbirds!
Our Buzzards have reappeared and can be seen idly wheeling in the sky, well, the Buzzards and something occasionally glimpsed which is significantly larger...
Not long until the first greening tips will be visible on the trees and this sepia stained landscape gives our eyes (and our souls) a much-needed blast of colour!
Don't worry.
Spring's eventually going to make it, and with any luck, the only real casualties will be the Midge population!
Jim Curry
Update on Highland Rheumatology Unit
The campaigners of the Highland Rheumatology Unit headed to Edinburgh to hand over 6370 signatures to Nicola Sturgeon on Thursday 25th Feb. A promising meeting, where the Health Secretary promised she would be keeping a close eye on the developments of the Rheumatology Review currently being carried out by NHS CHP (Community Health Partnership). She also promised that No decisions would be made over the future of the HRU without discussions with patients and staff.
We were extremely encouraged by her response.
Trains were cancelled so we were stranded overnight, but the kindness of Dave Thompson MSP paying a hotel bill out of his own pocket, was very much welcomed, and proved not all politicians are in “it” for themselves. We eventually got home the next evening by train via Aberdeen. None of us had any drugs, so by the time we got home we were quite tired and very sore.
We are now in the process of opening an account in the name of Friends of HRU. This account is to raise money for equipment and items that the unit may need, of which will benefit the patients. It will also be used as a fighting fund to bring awareness to the threatened reduction of this much needed service, as we have been doing since Dec 2009. It will be run by the patients themselves, and not by NHS.
We have several local people willing to do some fundraising activities for Friends of HRU.
Ryan Maclean of Kinlochewe has kindly offered to do the Bealach Cycle race in May, as a sponsored cycle, look out for sponsor forms and please do donate to this very worthwhile fund.
There are also several other people willing to do different fundraising activities.
A sponsored bed push. A hillclimb in Skye. A 10km run. A couple of Quiz nights.
Eoghain Maclean has offered a mounted print for a 100 board. We are looking at doing an auction later in the year, and perhaps print-out raffle books and do a big prize raffle.
If you have not already done so, please would you sign our online petition at: http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/no-cuts-to-highland-rheumatology-u nit.html
Please contact me (Michelle) on 01445 760351 if you would like a hard copy petition to hand around your friends and family.
Apart from Dave Thompson, the MSP's are working at cross-party purposes to help fight this review. We also have on our side, Jamie Stone, Rhoda Grant, Mary Scanlon and Rob Gibson!
Thanks to everyone who has helped us with this fight. The support has been wonderful and very encouraging. Michelle Stevenson
We were extremely encouraged by her response.
Trains were cancelled so we were stranded overnight, but the kindness of Dave Thompson MSP paying a hotel bill out of his own pocket, was very much welcomed, and proved not all politicians are in “it” for themselves. We eventually got home the next evening by train via Aberdeen. None of us had any drugs, so by the time we got home we were quite tired and very sore.
We are now in the process of opening an account in the name of Friends of HRU. This account is to raise money for equipment and items that the unit may need, of which will benefit the patients. It will also be used as a fighting fund to bring awareness to the threatened reduction of this much needed service, as we have been doing since Dec 2009. It will be run by the patients themselves, and not by NHS.
We have several local people willing to do some fundraising activities for Friends of HRU.
Ryan Maclean of Kinlochewe has kindly offered to do the Bealach Cycle race in May, as a sponsored cycle, look out for sponsor forms and please do donate to this very worthwhile fund.
There are also several other people willing to do different fundraising activities.
A sponsored bed push. A hillclimb in Skye. A 10km run. A couple of Quiz nights.
Eoghain Maclean has offered a mounted print for a 100 board. We are looking at doing an auction later in the year, and perhaps print-out raffle books and do a big prize raffle.
If you have not already done so, please would you sign our online petition at: http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/no-cuts-to-highland-rheumatology-u nit.html
Please contact me (Michelle) on 01445 760351 if you would like a hard copy petition to hand around your friends and family.
Apart from Dave Thompson, the MSP's are working at cross-party purposes to help fight this review. We also have on our side, Jamie Stone, Rhoda Grant, Mary Scanlon and Rob Gibson!
Thanks to everyone who has helped us with this fight. The support has been wonderful and very encouraging. Michelle Stevenson
Garve & Lochluichart WRI
Meeting: 25th January 2010
The meeting was opened by the president Jennifer Haslam, several members could not be present, so it was the smallest meeting for a very long time.
Arrangements were made for organizing entries for the WRI bulb and baking show on the 13th March. Getting volunteers to help with the teas in the church hall in Maryburgh, and members to bake cakes for the hoped for 100 people to come and enjoy.
Jennifer Haslam brought oasis balls, artificial flowers, and a lot of skill to help us make flower balls for the show, it was so engrossing that we did not want to stop for the tea provided.
Competitions
Knitted baby jacket:
Ilsa Jack
Jennifer Haslam
Doreen Young
Pretty hankie:
Bertha Logie
Evie Urquhart,
Doreen Young
The next meeting is on March 25th. We will be making a posy, and each of us bringing an item which stirs memories, and explaining them.
Competitions: 1 decorated boiled egg, and a tartan pin cushion.
Meeting: 4th March
The February meeting had to be postponed for a week due to snow. We discussed the arrangements for taking our exhibits to the bulb and baking show on the 13th of March at Maryburgh.
Due to the hard weather few of the bulbs have performed as well as they should, (mine all died) so it will be difficult to do as well as usual.
We are providing teas and cakes this year as usual, so that was also arranged. (We do not get prizes for that, though).
We also filled in the forms for the handicraft show on the 16th and 17th of April, at least our efforts on that will not be weather dependant.
We then made posies from silk flowers, in between talking. We all took offerings for the tea.
Competitions
Best decorated egg:
Jeanette Dickinson
Jean Bailey
Pat MacDonald
Pin cushion:
1. Jeannette Dickinson
2. Pat Macdonald
3. Ilsa Jack.
The next meeting will be on 25th of March when Amy Gentles from British Waterways will give a talk on the Caledonian Canal.
The competitions will be an Easter ’hat’ and a vase.
Helen Grainge
The meeting was opened by the president Jennifer Haslam, several members could not be present, so it was the smallest meeting for a very long time.
Arrangements were made for organizing entries for the WRI bulb and baking show on the 13th March. Getting volunteers to help with the teas in the church hall in Maryburgh, and members to bake cakes for the hoped for 100 people to come and enjoy.
Jennifer Haslam brought oasis balls, artificial flowers, and a lot of skill to help us make flower balls for the show, it was so engrossing that we did not want to stop for the tea provided.
Competitions
Knitted baby jacket:
Ilsa Jack
Jennifer Haslam
Doreen Young
Pretty hankie:
Bertha Logie
Evie Urquhart,
Doreen Young
The next meeting is on March 25th. We will be making a posy, and each of us bringing an item which stirs memories, and explaining them.
Competitions: 1 decorated boiled egg, and a tartan pin cushion.
Meeting: 4th March
The February meeting had to be postponed for a week due to snow. We discussed the arrangements for taking our exhibits to the bulb and baking show on the 13th of March at Maryburgh.
Due to the hard weather few of the bulbs have performed as well as they should, (mine all died) so it will be difficult to do as well as usual.
We are providing teas and cakes this year as usual, so that was also arranged. (We do not get prizes for that, though).
We also filled in the forms for the handicraft show on the 16th and 17th of April, at least our efforts on that will not be weather dependant.
We then made posies from silk flowers, in between talking. We all took offerings for the tea.
Competitions
Best decorated egg:
Jeanette Dickinson
Jean Bailey
Pat MacDonald
Pin cushion:
1. Jeannette Dickinson
2. Pat Macdonald
3. Ilsa Jack.
The next meeting will be on 25th of March when Amy Gentles from British Waterways will give a talk on the Caledonian Canal.
The competitions will be an Easter ’hat’ and a vase.
Helen Grainge
In Brief
* The opportunity to see the ever strong Strathpeffer Pipe Band whenever you can. Other Pipe Bands are having difficulty retaining the full complement of 16 pipers and drummers. Young talent comes through but heads off to further education or jobs elsewhere. Cost can be prohibitive with uniforms costing around £600 and instruments taking the outlay to over £1000.
*A cyclist doing the Grand Slam, which takes in all six Cities of the Six Nations, will cover 1800 miles from Rome to Murrayfield and should raise a million pounds.
*For the first time, Scotland is to export timber to France. Set to sail from Troon, Ayrshire, the order will make up for shortfalls in Scandinavian supplies to France.
*As well as adult volunteers, the 2405 (Dingwall) Squadron and other Squadrons are currently looking for new Cadets aged between 13 and 18 yrs. A Flying Officer from the Dingwall Air Training Corps has enjoyed training which involved cross-country skiing in Bavaria. Young people are offered a chance to experience gliding, shooting, drill, sports, first-aid, and radio controlled aircraft flying. skiing, parachuting and canoeing are offered annually.
*A scheme aiming to turn around the fortunes of the Wool Market will promote the "green" credentials of Wool in the fashion and furnishing worlds. Woollen products across the UK and Commonwealth countries will be adorned with a Green label.
*From April, BT's free evening call period will last from 7pm to 7am, rather than 6pm to 6am.
*Baking gently for 20 minutes is the most effective way of cooking rhubarb to produce the best combination of the plant's Polyphenols and Chemotherapy agents which can kill cancer cells.
*Nearly 5,000 people sent banknotes to the Bank of England for a refund in 2008, claiming they had been chewed or eaten. 2,000 people confessed to 'money laundering' - £82,125 worth was ruined in the wash! A special unit takes account of size of fragments, the presence of serial numbers and the "promise to pay the bearer".
*What's in a name? In the case of the Aberdeen Angus bull, 75,000 guineas. His name is Balmachie Black Bear. He is son of Rawborn Lord Ross out of Bleback Blackbird, a Bleback Lord Hornblower daughter…
*A vet group has warned that rhododendron poisoning is usually rare, but is less so this year. With snow covering the ground, sheep will eat anything green, including rhododendrons. Salivation followed by rapid deterioration, signals the need for prompt treatment.
*Headteachers in Scotland are concerned that tens of thousands of would-be students could be rejected as applicants could be rejected as applications for places have risen by 31%. Even private schools in the UK have, in some cases, had pupils with 'straight A's' turned down.
*Just days before a stronger grocery suppliers' code of practice came into force, Supermarket chains had demanded hefty price cuts from farmers. Although retailers say it is not in their interests to treat farmers badly, the NFU want to see an Ombudsman focusing on the strengthened code, not sitting back and waiting for complaints! *Some 'enterprising' midnight raiders have taken to lifting tons of sand from the Duke of Argyll's estate on Tiree. They have been warned that carrying on (or off?) will result in prosecutions.
*Parsnips last for months in the ground, getting sweeter once they are frosted. They need a long growing season, so for next Winter's enjoyment, plan to sow in March or April.
*Every month tens of thousands of patients in Scotland fail to turn up for consultations with Doctors and other health professionals. A BMA consultant said "if illness is not life-threatening or painful, we are becoming far more robust at putting people off the waiting list".
*Boy Scouts and Girl Guides, looking back to the 1940's said "We were the original recyclers, we collected waste paper, bundled it, weighed it (it earned one penny - 'old money' - a hundredweight...) then pulled it onto a cart to the collecting point. *An open letter from the Scottish newspaper industry points out that the Scottish Government's plan to discontinue Local Authority announcements in Scottish newspapers will prevent the information reaching large numbers of the public, thereby broadening the existing divide between the 'netters' and the 'non-netters'.
*More than 8 out of 10 respondents rejected a proposal to legalise hunting stags or bucks all year round and plans to shorten the protection period for hinds also met with a similar reaction. Thank goodness! Our roads are too busy to walk along, so we need clear times of safety in the Hills for ourselves and the animals which live there.
Pam Morrison
*A cyclist doing the Grand Slam, which takes in all six Cities of the Six Nations, will cover 1800 miles from Rome to Murrayfield and should raise a million pounds.
*For the first time, Scotland is to export timber to France. Set to sail from Troon, Ayrshire, the order will make up for shortfalls in Scandinavian supplies to France.
*As well as adult volunteers, the 2405 (Dingwall) Squadron and other Squadrons are currently looking for new Cadets aged between 13 and 18 yrs. A Flying Officer from the Dingwall Air Training Corps has enjoyed training which involved cross-country skiing in Bavaria. Young people are offered a chance to experience gliding, shooting, drill, sports, first-aid, and radio controlled aircraft flying. skiing, parachuting and canoeing are offered annually.
*A scheme aiming to turn around the fortunes of the Wool Market will promote the "green" credentials of Wool in the fashion and furnishing worlds. Woollen products across the UK and Commonwealth countries will be adorned with a Green label.
*From April, BT's free evening call period will last from 7pm to 7am, rather than 6pm to 6am.
*Baking gently for 20 minutes is the most effective way of cooking rhubarb to produce the best combination of the plant's Polyphenols and Chemotherapy agents which can kill cancer cells.
*Nearly 5,000 people sent banknotes to the Bank of England for a refund in 2008, claiming they had been chewed or eaten. 2,000 people confessed to 'money laundering' - £82,125 worth was ruined in the wash! A special unit takes account of size of fragments, the presence of serial numbers and the "promise to pay the bearer".
*What's in a name? In the case of the Aberdeen Angus bull, 75,000 guineas. His name is Balmachie Black Bear. He is son of Rawborn Lord Ross out of Bleback Blackbird, a Bleback Lord Hornblower daughter…
*A vet group has warned that rhododendron poisoning is usually rare, but is less so this year. With snow covering the ground, sheep will eat anything green, including rhododendrons. Salivation followed by rapid deterioration, signals the need for prompt treatment.
*Headteachers in Scotland are concerned that tens of thousands of would-be students could be rejected as applicants could be rejected as applications for places have risen by 31%. Even private schools in the UK have, in some cases, had pupils with 'straight A's' turned down.
*Just days before a stronger grocery suppliers' code of practice came into force, Supermarket chains had demanded hefty price cuts from farmers. Although retailers say it is not in their interests to treat farmers badly, the NFU want to see an Ombudsman focusing on the strengthened code, not sitting back and waiting for complaints! *Some 'enterprising' midnight raiders have taken to lifting tons of sand from the Duke of Argyll's estate on Tiree. They have been warned that carrying on (or off?) will result in prosecutions.
*Parsnips last for months in the ground, getting sweeter once they are frosted. They need a long growing season, so for next Winter's enjoyment, plan to sow in March or April.
*Every month tens of thousands of patients in Scotland fail to turn up for consultations with Doctors and other health professionals. A BMA consultant said "if illness is not life-threatening or painful, we are becoming far more robust at putting people off the waiting list".
*Boy Scouts and Girl Guides, looking back to the 1940's said "We were the original recyclers, we collected waste paper, bundled it, weighed it (it earned one penny - 'old money' - a hundredweight...) then pulled it onto a cart to the collecting point. *An open letter from the Scottish newspaper industry points out that the Scottish Government's plan to discontinue Local Authority announcements in Scottish newspapers will prevent the information reaching large numbers of the public, thereby broadening the existing divide between the 'netters' and the 'non-netters'.
*More than 8 out of 10 respondents rejected a proposal to legalise hunting stags or bucks all year round and plans to shorten the protection period for hinds also met with a similar reaction. Thank goodness! Our roads are too busy to walk along, so we need clear times of safety in the Hills for ourselves and the animals which live there.
Pam Morrison
Printer Fund - we’re getting there!
Some days it feels like we’ve been climbing Ben Wyvis in stilettos, trying to raise funds for the much needed replacement printer/copier to produce the newsletter.
Finally, we can see the light at the end of the tunnel (and, folks, it’s definitely not a train coming!).
We’re indebted to George Seligman for joining our ‘forces’ and securing donations. George has also given up his valuable time for discussions and has introduced us to Peter Burrows-Smith, who is giving his consulting services free (advising on the best-buy printer for our needs). Plus, Peter will negotiate a sensibly priced maintenance contract on our behalf - he’s an expert in procuring such items, so we’re being well looked after.
After much discussion, we’ve decided to purchase another black/white machine, as after doing all the ‘sums’ we feel the running costs of a colour machine would be too high. We can’t justify the additional costs, which, dear reader, we would have to pass on to you!
At the time of writing I don’t have an exact amount, but a quick tot-up in my head says we have just over £2,000!
Our list of ‘friends’ is now getting longer.
Thank you to everyone for their contribution, it’s very much appreciated!
Update to follow very soon! Together with a complete list of 'Friends of the News & Views'...
Jackie
Finally, we can see the light at the end of the tunnel (and, folks, it’s definitely not a train coming!).
We’re indebted to George Seligman for joining our ‘forces’ and securing donations. George has also given up his valuable time for discussions and has introduced us to Peter Burrows-Smith, who is giving his consulting services free (advising on the best-buy printer for our needs). Plus, Peter will negotiate a sensibly priced maintenance contract on our behalf - he’s an expert in procuring such items, so we’re being well looked after.
After much discussion, we’ve decided to purchase another black/white machine, as after doing all the ‘sums’ we feel the running costs of a colour machine would be too high. We can’t justify the additional costs, which, dear reader, we would have to pass on to you!
At the time of writing I don’t have an exact amount, but a quick tot-up in my head says we have just over £2,000!
Our list of ‘friends’ is now getting longer.
Thank you to everyone for their contribution, it’s very much appreciated!
Update to follow very soon! Together with a complete list of 'Friends of the News & Views'...
Jackie
Africa comes to Gairloch!
Join Two Lochs Radio for a very special evening.
Gairloch Community Hall Annexe, Friday April 16 - 7:30pm.
Tracy, Valerie and Allan talk about their trip to the Tanzanian village of Mtitu.
With photos, music, crafts for sale, a raffle and refreshments – all with an African theme.
Admission free, but bring your purse!
Retiring collection in aid of the Mtitu Foundation and Two Lochs Radio
From the Manse
Do you have a month in the year when your family have all their birthdays or anniversaries?
An expensive month sometimes, if a significant milestone has been reached and you want to give a bit more to mark the occasion. It all takes a measure of planning and budgeting. And remembering to post the right card on the right day!
This time of year there are many significant events in the Christian calendar, such as Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Day.
Each day marks something of note that happened in the life of Jesus Christ. This happens every year about this time, but the date of Easter moves each year.
This year it is Sunday the 4th of April, next year it is the 24th of April. And in 2008 you may remember it was as early as 23rd March.
The latest Easter can be is the 22nd April and the earliest the 22nd March. It moves because it is calculated by the lunar calendar, and with 13 moons a year this does not match the 12 month solar calendar.
There have been attempts to fix the date of Easter. There is even a current an act of Parliament (the 1928 Easter Act) which agreed it would be the first Sunday after the second Saturday in April. It has
not been possible to get agreement between the various churches world-wide to do this.
Jesus and his disciples were in Jerusalem for an important date in the Jewish calendar - the Passover. He arrived on a donkey, this we recall on Palm Sunday. People on that day waved branches from the trees to welcome one who they thought would be a great king. His last meal, with his friends was on the Thursday night before his death on Good Friday.
An odd name some may think for a day of death ,and it has also been called Black Friday, as well as Long Friday, as it was the custom to fast all day that day.
It is certainly the precursor to the good news of Easter day, that Jesus had risen from the dead. Some think it was originally God's Friday.
Interestingly there is no horse racing in Britain on Good Friday. A little sign of our Christian heritage in a secular world.
Easter has many traditions added to it, that are fun as well as thought provoking. Some are adapted from earlier pagan rituals, to mark the new life at Spring-time.
All those bunnies and eggs. For the Christian Easter recalls the new life that Jesus Christ gives us through his dying and rising again.
Easter is the day when we know that God has remembered us. His present: Jesus Christ.
It will be marked on your calendar.
Have a happy Easter!
Fraser Stewart
New weekly market in Kinlochewe
Jackie writes:
Starting today (Thursday 1st April) and every Thursday through to the end of August, there's a great new market in Kinlochewe.
I went across to the the village hall, and top marks to organiser Angie, it was superb.
A lovely mix of offerings, from delicious home baked cakes, and bread, preserves, to lovely pottery from Loch Broom, soaps from Mellon Charles, and books, plants, unusual button jewellery, lovely items made from vintage fabrics (a great way to support recycling), second hand clothes, speciality teas, and lots, lots more!
Market opens at 10.30 through to 2.30 - refreshments available, together with great cakes, scones, and home-made soup - have lunch and shop!
Over the coming weeks Angie tells me that more food items will be sold, including locally produced cheeses, organic veg, and eggs.
If you are interested in selling at the marketing contact Angie direct - email angela@celtic-carvings.co.uk
Starting today (Thursday 1st April) and every Thursday through to the end of August, there's a great new market in Kinlochewe.
I went across to the the village hall, and top marks to organiser Angie, it was superb.
A lovely mix of offerings, from delicious home baked cakes, and bread, preserves, to lovely pottery from Loch Broom, soaps from Mellon Charles, and books, plants, unusual button jewellery, lovely items made from vintage fabrics (a great way to support recycling), second hand clothes, speciality teas, and lots, lots more!
Market opens at 10.30 through to 2.30 - refreshments available, together with great cakes, scones, and home-made soup - have lunch and shop!
Over the coming weeks Angie tells me that more food items will be sold, including locally produced cheeses, organic veg, and eggs.
If you are interested in selling at the marketing contact Angie direct - email angela@celtic-carvings.co.uk
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