‘Parks and Ducks’ written by Oliver Cross

Dear all,

Almost every day since the lockdown began, me and Lynne have taken a walk in a park and every day plenty of others – more than in pre-lockdown days, I’d say – have done the same.

If the use of municipal parks could be monetised, Leeds City Council would be able to repair broken railings and benches, remove graffiti and take their parks back several decades, to when they were last properly funded.

The park users seem happy with their simple pleasures. Many of them walk around smiling, which is very unusual in central Leeds, and others give us a nod of greeting as they pass, which usually only happens in the proper countryside, such as the Dales. I’m thinking of buying myself a respectable tweed hat so I can doff it at people.

We keep our park visits very local, as recommended by leading Downing Street advisers. Most often we stick to Woodhouse Moor, which, being close to three universities is full of young people running, exercising and occasionally consuming large quantities of beer – the favoured brand seems to be Corona, probably because it gets so many mentions in the media.

Around a couple of corners from the moor is St George’s Field, which is now part of Leeds University (though open to all) and was once a private cemetery where the richest people in Leeds went to get themselves buried.

It’s now mostly grassed over, although the many interesting gravestones have been preserved, some of them wonders of unnecessary effort, such as a very intricately-carved wickerwork basket and fishing rod to mark the passing of a keen angler whose name I couldn’t read.

There is also the gravestone of William Darby (1810-71), a remarkable showman, horse-rider and acrobat, who, under his stage name, Pablo Fanque, a circus owner.

This should have been enough to establish his lasting fame but to make doubly-sure, he also secured a passing mention in the Beatles song For the Benefit of Mr Kite on the 1967 Sergeant Pepper album. Even if you know Fanque’s story, it’s strange to see a name so fantastical chiselled out in cold, grey stone, along with the tragic fate of poor Mrs Pablo Fanque (see Google).

Lynne and I also enjoy watching the water birds at Roundhay, Golden Acre and Meanwood parks. The birds seen to have reached an agreement, or possibly formed a union, so that swans, ducks, geese, moorhens and gulls (which only join the waterfowl union when someone offers them food) can live together without visible animosity. They manage things far better than we do.

For example, humans are now divided over whether to feed bread to ducks; one side says bread, being of limited nutritional value, makes them ill, the other finds that municipal warnings against throwing bread to waterfowl have produced widespread distress and starvation.

I would say, in a duck-like spirit of compromise and inclusivity, that birds living in urban ponds and lakes need to be fed frequently because otherwise they wouldn’t be around in sufficient quantities to entertain park visitors, and if there is one thing parks should be aiming for, it’s the greatest good for the greatest numbers.

Thank you Oliver, until next time….

Monday Mind Workout Answers for Monday 13th July 2020

Dear all, please find below the answers for yesterday’s ‘Monday Mind Workout’. How well did you know the 60s?
1.Who famously sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to President John F Kennedy in 1962? Mairlyn Monroe
2. Who is the lead singer of The Who? Roger Daltrey
3. In 1964, world heavyweight champion Cassius Clay changed his name to what?Muhammed Ali
4. Which Daydream Believer band initially began as a fictional band on a sitcom?  The Monkees
5. In 1962, three inmates escaped from what “inescapable” prison?Alcatraz
6. Who sang barefoot at the Eurovision Song Contest in 1967 with ‘Puppet on a String’? Sandie Shaw
7. Who was the first man on the moon in 1969?Neil Armstrong
8.Which puppet was designed in 1962 and was originally voiced by Ivan Owen?Basil Brush
9. Which blonde bombshell became the face of country music in the 60s? Dolly Parton
10. In 1962, Andy Warhol shocked the art world with an exhibit of his paintings of what?Soup Cans
11. True or false: Penny Lane is named after a real street in London – False – it’s a street in Liverpool
12. Which coin was introduced in Britain in October 1969?50p
13 In which year of the 60s was the film of ‘The Sound of Music’ released? 1965
14.Which brand of toothpaste was advertised on television as having a ring of confidence?Colgate
15.Complete the titles of these 60s’ TV music shows (1 point each)

  • (i) Ready,Steady,__,
  • (ii) Thank Your Lucky __,
  • (iii) Juke Box __,
  • (iv) The 6:5 __, and
  • (v) Discs a__ 
  • The TV shows were respectively (i) Ready Steady Go!, (ii) Thank Your Lucky Stars, (iii) Juke Box Jury, (iv) The 6:5 Special and (v) Discs a-go-go.
16. Name the twin brothers who were arrested in 1965 on suspicion of running a protection racket in London. [The —–]The Krays
17. In which year in the 1960s did the farthing cease to be legal tender … ? 1960
18. For what event did 20 million people tune in to Coronation Street in 1968?Elsie Tanner’s Wedding
19  What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong was a hit in which year? a) 1967 b) 1968 c) 1969 a) 1967
20.What British subculture was the rival to the mods?Rockers
Anagrams – 60s Pop Groups – e.g. ON LOSERS GLINT – Rolling Stones
21. DINKY FLOP – Pink Floyd
22. LETS HATE BE – Beatles
23. HEY BOTCH BASE – The Beach Boys
24. SOURNESS OF HATE – The Four Seasons
25. DAM MAN FERN – Manfred Man
What was your score?

Opera North – From Couch to Chorus

Ever wanted to learn how to sing in an opera chorus? Now’s your chance!  Opera North are hosting a four-week series of Zoom workshops this July and August where you’ll be learning all the best singing tips and tricks from professional music leaders and singers from the Chorus of Opera North.

You don’t need to have prior singing experience or be able to read music – all they’re they’re asking is for is your enthusiasm. Whether you want to learn the basics of singing opera or experience what it’s like to be part of a chorus, this is the perfect opportunity to learn from the comfort of your own home!

You can learn more about the workshops and how to join here.

A chorus of singers on stage with their arms in the air

 

‘Monday Mind Workout – Monday 13th July 2020

Good morning

Today’s ‘Monday Mind Workout’ is themed around the ‘1960s’, good luck!

1.Who famously sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to President John F Kennedy in 1962?

  1. Who is the lead singer of The Who?
  2. In 1964, world heavyweight champion Cassius Clay changed his name to what?
  3. Which Daydream Believer band initially began as a fictional band on a sitcom? 
  4. In 1962, three inmates escaped from what “inescapable” prison?
  5. Who sang barefoot at the Eurovision Song Contest in 1967 with ‘Puppet on a String’?
  6. Who was the first man on the moon in 1969?

8.Which puppet was designed in 1962 and was originally voiced by Ivan Owen?

  1. Which blonde bombshell became the face of country music in the 60s?
  2. In 1962, Andy Warhol shocked the art world with an exhibit of his paintings of what?
  3. True or false: Penny Lane is named after a real street in London
  4. Which coin was introduced in Britain in October 1969?

13 In which year of the 60s was the film of ‘The Sound of Music’ released? 

14.Which brand of toothpaste was advertised on television as having a ring of confidence?

15.Complete the titles of these 60s’ TV music shows (1 point each)

  • (i) Ready,Steady,__,
  • (ii) Thank Your Lucky __,
  • (iii) Juke Box __,
  • (iv) The 6:5 __, and
  • (v) Discs a__ 
16. Name the twin brothers who were arrested in 1965 on suspicion of running a protection racket in London. [The —–]
17. In which year in the 1960s did the farthing cease to be legal tender … ?
18. For what event did 20 million people tune in to Coronation Street in 1968?
19  What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong was a hit in which year? a) 1967 b) 1968 c) 1969
20.What British subculture was the rival to the mods?
Anagrams – 60s Pop Groups – e.g. ON LOSERS GLINT – Rolling Stones
21. DINKY FLOP
22. LETS HATE BE
23. HEY BOTCH BASE
24. SOURNESS OF HATE
25. DAM MAN FERN

Smashed Peacock

Gandini’s Juggling appeared at Leeds Carriageworks back in 2018 with their show ‘Sigma’, Now they have shared a special version of their 2010 Pina Bausch-inspired cult piece ‘Smashed’ available to watch for free online.
Featuring some of the world’s greatest jugglers, hundreds of apples and crockery galore, its nostalgic scenes hint at tense relationships, lost love and the quaintness of afternoon tea.

Watch the show here

Day 82 – C & A etc… written by Maureen Kershaw

Dear all,

Day 82 – Department Stores: Not exactly a department store , being clothing only, although being on three floors ‘C & A Modes’ was probably a bit of a forerunner to ‘Primark’? There was a bargain basement for separates where at the age of 13 I was bought  a straight skirt with matching short sleeved overblouse in brown and white glazed cotton. ‘C & A’ (affectionately known as “Coats ‘n’ ‘ats”)  appeared to have the largest selection of coats in town and all ages from teenagers to grandmothers could be catered for.I bought coats in boucle, mohair and the infamous foam-backed all from there plus jersey pinafore dresses with frills on the shoulder (that was a strange style!). Maternity wear too with  grey and brown cord pinafores which I wore with pretty blouses and polos and were flattering in pregnancy – no skin tight maternity wear in the 80s, thank goodness!  ‘Clockhouse’ was the department for young fashion and for those desiring tailoring or elegance, ‘Sixth Sense’. One thing we were very much spoilt with in the 80s and 90s was their Ski Wear, not that I went skiing but I  did buy a beautiful padded 3/4 coat in petrol green shimmery fabric. All their clothing was reasonably priced and I assume that most of it was made in the UK then, One thing I don’t ever remember is returning items for a refund – it obviously fit. Before they closed I did buy my shell suits from there plus two jersey jogger suits with long sweatshirt tops but they was nothing to be proud of! ‘C and A’  were good for children’s wear and school uniform too  so I supported the store until it closed. A sad loss to the UK but they still continue to trade in Europe.

Not far away from ‘C & A’ , although a World apart in elegance and custom was ‘Marshall & Snelgrove’. The moment one stepped inside the Store there was an air of tranquility and footsteps were silenced on the thick green carpet. Assistants spoke in hushed tones and customers felt obliged to follow suit. The only items I bought there were mini dresses from their ‘Jean Varon’ dept which gave me great joy and pride to wear. The store, often referred to simply as ‘Marshall’s,  had the most elegant carrier bags and hat boxes; instantly recognised by the distinctive floral design on a black background.

From the sublime to the ridiculous there was the ‘Co-op’ or ‘Leeds Industrial Co-operatve Society’ to give it its Sunday name. Originally on both sides of lower Albion Street but I only remember it being where ‘Wilko’ is now. There was a hairdressing salon for many years and each year on ‘Children’s Day’ the Queen and her Attendants would be photographed there having their done before changing into their finery for the day ahead. As a Bridesmaid in 1973 the Bride and my co-bridesmaids  had our hair styled at the Co-op and I was surprised at the size of the Salon with its long row of green leather chairs where one would sit under the large hairdryers and read a magazine; any form of conversation being out of the question. I would think the majority of Leeds bought from the Co-op, whether it was milk delivered from their dairies, shopping for food ar their local Co-op, booking the Austin Princess cars for a wedding or using their funeral services. Every purchase was awarded with ‘divi’ for which we had to say our number (“132998”!) the dividend being paid out twice a year in cash by presenting a book at the cash office on Albion Street.  Actually I liked the ‘Co-op’ store very much as it had a good selection of departments, from white goods, electricals and homewares in the basement, the ground floor selling ladies and men’s clothing, footwear, haberdashery plus a pharmacy and perfumery counter. I loved browsing the beauty and medical counter as it was quite dated and old fashioned, as was the rest of the Store in its appearance, yet all sorts of products not generally available in other outlets could be found there. One could buy a methol cone to rub on a fevered brow, a plastic pleated rainhat (if so desired!) or discontinued cosmetics. The next floor housed furniture and home furnishings and the top floor – nursery goods, toys and the Cafe. The ‘Co-op’ was a favourite destination for my son, with his Nana almost always treating her grandson to some small toy, usually another addition to a collection of ‘Thomas the Tank’ trains or Wrestlers. The Cafe was designed to resemble a Parisian garden, with its dark green wrought iron furniture and fittings, all illuminated by ornate white and brass lamps. The ‘Co-op’ was yet another closure and loss for many.

Next M & S, Woolies, Littlewoods and Matthias Robinson.

Gazing

Adverse Camber Productions will be illuminating our summer nights over the next few months with ‘Gazing, a brand new online series starting at the end of July featuring a captivating mix of stories from some of the UK’s favourite storytellers and stargazing tips from astronomers.

Designed with an adult audience in mind, ‘Gazing’ will boast a programme of short films, podcasts, animations and livestreams exploring connections between life on Earth and the enormous possibilities of the Night Sky as we all look to the future.

Subscribe to Adverse Camber’s Facebook page or Youtube channel to enjoy the series as it unfolds. (You can unsubscribe at any time)

***NEW*** Grief and Loss Support Service

A new West Yorkshire and Harrogate Health and Care Partnership Grief and Loss Support Service has been launched this month. The new service is for anyone suffering any form of grief and loss, or those worried about losing someone, whether this relates to a family member, friend or member of their community.

Practical and emotional support and advice is available from 8am to 8pm, sevent days a week via the freephone number 0808 1963833, or online chat facility The team can offer support and help connect you with organisations local to you, who can offer additional help where needed.

This service replaces the Covid-19 Telephone Support Line previously offered by St Gemma’s Hospice and Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice.

Joseph – The last Shows Must Go On Musical for a while

The Shows must go on is ending for a while over the summer and so this Friday’s show is the last in the series.  They are finishing with the same show that started it, Joseph And The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat.

They promise to return in mid August with an all-new season of exciting shows to keep you entertained and they will be releasing short clips from the shows on their YouTube channel over the summer

Joseph will be streaming for 48hours from 7pm tonight

COVID-19 Scam Alert issue 15 10.07.2020

Good Afternoon

Please find attached the West Yorkshire Trading Standards Newsletter Scam Alert. This weekly alert outlines trending fraud patterns during the current COVID-19 pandemic and what we can do to stay protected. There have been further reports of scams, doorstep Crime and business complaints all relating to the COVID-19 pandemic here in West Yorkshire. This news alert will give you an indication of the current situation here in West Yorkshire.