OffTheWall

No.24 Winter 2011/12

InformatIve

supportIve

creatIve

XMAS
WHATS
Readers give their views of the real meaning of Cristmas

IT ALL

ABoUT?

PLUS! The best Turkey left-over recipes Bumper Book and film reviews window on the web whats on at DHI

Midsomer Norton Rural Recovery Hub

New free and confidential Multi-Agency Drug and Alcohol Service for Midsomer Norton, incorporating employment and housing information and support
l

COMES TO DHI
I was pleased to learn recently that DHI now offers free yoga classes on Wednesday evenings. As I am a participant in the weekly Monday morning Mindfulness Meditation group, I thought yoga might be a useful complement to this activity. According to Denise, our yoga coordinator, I was right, as she considers yoga and meditation to be inextricably interlinked, putting my description that they go together, innit? in more educated English. Anyone is welcome to join the group, which takes place every Wednesday from 5.30pm to 6.30pm. You dont have to have an interest or participate in meditation, as I do, and you need have no previous experience in yoga. I find the hour well spent, as the benefits are physical, mental and emotional and I leave feeling these benefits in every way. If you are interested in learning more, have a word with your key worker, if you have one, or simply turn up at 1730h on any Wednesday. You will be pleasantly surprised.

YOGA

Address: The Cottage, High Street Midsomer Norton BA3 2DP (behind the Midsomer Norton Sainsburys store)
l

For further information about services available and opening times contact: 01225 329411

We look forward to seeing you!

The DHI Allotment

As a service user of DHI in Bath I was told of a gardening project on their allotment in Victoria Park and being a fan of anything natural I thought Id give it a shot.
I was introduced to Peter and his enthusiasm for all things green was very encouraging. I started coming on a regular basis and there was always a lot to do, from planting veggies to hard landscaping to just chilling out and relaxing by the pond, feeding the goldfish. I can highly recommend getting involved if you are in need of some meaningful occupation, and getting back on track, Im hoping to get into a gardening career and set up a little business selling veggies to people on low incomes.

If you want to get involved contact us on stevelangston@dhibath.org.uk

Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

Hi there!
Welcome to our Christmas and new year edition of Off The Wall. We had fun putting this edition together and we hope you enjoy the content. Weve an interview with the very important Carol Stanaway, we talk to face of DHI Kate Paisey and tell you exactly what to do with your turkey leftovers! We wish you a merry berry Christmas and a happy new year.

collette

contents
The real meaning of Christmas 10 Questions Puzzle Corner Whos the Boss? Bushisms Healthy Winter recipes Book and Film reviews Andrews terrible jokes Window on the web Whats On at DHI: B&NES Whats On at DHI: South Glos. Whats On at DHI: Swindon Letters Page Useful Info The Back Page 4 6 7 8 12 14 15 16 17 18 20 21 22 23 24

Pictured above - turn to page 12 for a page of George Bushs gaffes. Left: The Beehives Kate Paisey tells us some of her favourite things; Below: Tanya Galic cooks up a storm with her turkey curry.

Patron Midge Ure Off The Wall Editorial Team Feature writers: Jim Timoney, Alan Cupit, Andrew Campbell, Colette Lyons, Kangy, Rachel Garvin; Jessica Lovelace; Tanya Galic. Books & Poetry editor: Jim; Recipes: Tanya Galic Contributors Steve Langston, Carol Stanaway, Kate Paisey Check us out online: www.dhi-online.org.uk/clients/category/Off-The-Wall Get in touch! Off The Wall Magazine The Beehive, Beehive Yard, Bath, BA1 5BD. Tel 01225 329411 Email info@dhibath.org.uk. Copyright 2010 DHI. All rights reserved. The Group of Seven assist with production.

eal mean the r stmas of chri

Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

Off The Wall contributors Jim Timoney and Andrew Campbell give their (very different) impressions of what Christmas means to them ...

Just another date on the calendar

By Jim Timoney

o this is Christmas... Frankly, my dear, I try not to think of Christmas at all. Whereas some people spend all year (and their money) planning the big event, to me it is just another date on the calendar, with the added disadvantage that everything is shut. I have no interest in the giving and receiving of gifts, since I have no close family and my friends and I dont bother. My expenses extend to sending a few cards to long lost friends with whom I have had no other contact for over thirty years its like a habit or duty, it seems. As for the religious aspect, it lost all credibility for me from about the age of twelve, when I concluded that such things as a virgin birth, resurrection, miracles and other such fairy tales simply did not hold water. Now, dont get me

wrong I m very happy for those Christians who truly believe; I just dont happen to share it. The most wondrous thing about Christmas for me is the ability to wander the streets of Bath at will, without the usual scrum on the pavements (and no cyclists), plus being free to cross the road anywhere with no superior motorist beeping at me as if Im either too blind or too stupid to judge the distance and time to do it safely without being squashed. I should admit here that I have partly been playing Devils Advocate. I am not quite the bah, humbug old geezer the above might suggest. In fact, this year I have been invited to share Christmas lunch with a friend, going halves on the expenses. So, after my Quaker

Meeting, I shall appear at her door armed, I earnestly pray, with a few cartons of grape juice, to celebrate Christmas in our own way. May you all have the Christmas you deserve (or even the one you want!), as well as a good new year (without any fear). Best wishes.

aning s...
Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus

By Andrew Campbell
t this time of year, we start thinking about the cost of Christmas. How big a turkey can I afford to buy? How much can I afford to spend on my son/ daughter/mum/dad? How expensive a present can I buy for my boyfriend/girlfriend/ husband/wife without putting myself in the red? Others will be pondering on whats going to be on TV over Christmas. I hope theyre not going to show The Wizard of Oz/ Its a Wonderful Life again! I cant wait for this years Doctor Who Christmas Special! I wonder what blockbuster films the BBC/ITV will show this year. The children meanwhile will simply be wondering what Santa will bring them in their stockings. Current favourites being, I believe, Blackberry phones, iPads and Xbox 360. But I could be wrong. But with all this talk of turkey, TV and presents, how many people have stopped to think what Christmas is actually about? As Cliff Richard sang in

his 1990 Christmas No. 1, Will we ever remember him on the Saviours Day? The commercialism surrounding Christmas has obscured the fact that Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ (note: a person, not a convenient means of swearing) in a stable in Bethlehem 2,000 years ago, a birth which splits history in two B.C. and A.D. and although it passed unnoticed at the time, it had eternal ramifications. People make the mistake of leaving the baby Jesus in the stable, saying what a sweet little baby he was, surrounded by the shepherds and the wise men. But Jesus grew up, worked with his father Joseph as a carpenter, and then at the age of 30 was baptised and began his work of preaching and teaching, while also displaying his divinity with his miracles turning water into wine, feeding five thousand people with just five loaves and two fish, walking on water, stilling a storm with a command and raising three people from

death. Then finally he was arrested, underwent a farrago of a trial and then was put to death in the cruellest way possible, crucifixion. Three days later he rose again from death, and forty days after that ascended into heaven. Jesus death on the cross and his subsequent resurrection occurred for a reason by dying on the cross he took on himself the sins of every person who ever lived, in the past, present and future, and by his resurrection he enabled all those who put their trust in him as their Saviour to have spiritually satisfying lives, and the knowledge of eternal life in heaven when they die. This is what Christmas is about. Not Santa Claus, not Christmas films and TV specials, but the best present ever given a baby in a manger, who grew up to be the Saviour of humanity by his death on a cross and subsequent resurrection. Not a person whose name can be thrown away as an epithet, but a person we can trust, and the best friend we could ever have.

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OTW rEGULAr

Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

20 10 Questions
Off The Wall speaks to Kate Paisey, the Beehives all round good egg...

How and why did you get to this point in your career and why did you want to get into this type of work in the first place?

I came from a background that couldnt be more removed from working in DHI! I worked in the banking sector over in Bristol for 13 years before I was made redun/ dant |in July 2009. I had started working for the bank straight after I finished college, just as a temporary measure and then the rest is history as they say.... I had heard about the work DHI was doing then the Receptionist job was advertised and I applied, never thought Id get it!!
What do you find most rewarding about your job?

followed by a gig for a good dance!

If you were PM what laws would you introduce or change?

hard to escape out into the country somewhere with all of our festival equipment and set up camp somewhere!
What are your career and life goals?

I love the interaction with people everyday and for me, its just being able to help people, never mind how small a contribution it might be and also when you see people make a real turn around in their lives for the good.
What do you find most difficult about your job?

I dont really have any particular career goals as such right now I am happy with my lot and my life and would like to continue with the job I love doing and just do the best I can in it.
What is you favourite book, film, album and plate of food?

Oh gosh, I am no expert in these things at all but I would improve mental health services and make it more accessible for people that really need it rather than having to endure so much red tape. I would also like to make more emergency temporary accommodation available for people that find themselves suddenly homeless and easier to access. Also would bring back the grant system for university accommodation.
Who would be your perfect dinner party guests?

When you see clients that have particularly challenging situations and its upsetting how frustrated and scared they can be - there are so many tough and sometimes horrible times for people.
In the event of a zombie apocalypse what steps would you take to ensure your survival?

Food thats an easy one for me roast dinner and all the trimmings Album so difficult as this changes on a daily basis to be honest I have a really wide taste in music but my favourite at the moment is the new Kasabian album or maybe something by Muse or Friendly Fires....Im not sure!!! Film Saturday Night Fever for the music and John Travoltas dancing! Book The Time Travellers Wife Audrey Niffenegger
In twenty words describe your perfect night out?

I could just choose so many but here are a few: Johnny Depp, Jack Dee, Freddie Mercury, French & Saunders, Kate Moss. I think they would all have some very interesting stories to tell thats for sure theres the comedy factor as well.
What were your childhood aspirations and which ones have you fulfilled?

I think we would definitely barricade ourselves up in a local shop, with plenty of supplies to see us through or possibly try very

Out with my husband and our closest best friends, great food

Cant really remember what my childhood aspirations were!! I think I wanted to be an archaeologist or a spacewoman at some points, neither of which have happened ha ha!!! I think most people end up doing something different to what they dream about as kids... otW

Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

Puzzle corner
Good luck with our cryptic summer puzzles... Christmas crossword
1a & 1d 2d 3d 2a & 4d 5d 6d

FUN!

Andrews 80s quiz

Events 1. In which year did the Lockerbie disaster take place? 2. Status Quo opened the London concert of which worldwide event in 1985? 3. In what year did the Falklands War take place? 4. In 1980, the island of Vanuatu, now known as the Republic of Vanuatu, was granted its independence. In which ocean is it located? 5. Which American volcano erupted in 1980? tV 6. In Dallas, who shot J.R.? 7. The music channel MTV was launched in what year? 8. Which US comedy series had as its theme song Where Everybody Knows Your Name? 9. Name one of the three original presenters of Breakfast Time. 10. Which long-running British police series premiered in 1984? Music - No.1s 11. Which group had No. 1s in the 1980s with Going Underground and Town Called Malice? 12. The 1982 No. 1 A Little Peace by Nicole won that years Eurovision Song Contest for which country? 13. Which singer had his first No. 1 in 1983 with a cover version of the Supremes hit You Cant Hurry Love? 14. A 1957 hit by Jackie Wilson reached No. 1 in 1986. What was the title? 15. The No. 1s Never Gonna Give You Up by Rick Astley, I Should Be So Lucky by Kylie Minogue and Too Many Broken Hearts by Jason Donovan were all produced by which chart-dominating team?

3a

4a

5a

7d

6a

7a

8d

8a

9d

9a

ANSWERS ON PAGE 22

Across 1. What you spend at Christmas 2. What you wrap your presents in 3. Where Santa goes after coming down the chimney 4. Where you learn the true story of Christmas 5. What the postman always delivers at Christmas 6. What you buy your Christmas presents with in Europe 7. A friendly ghost who was one of the Wise Men 8. Childs play at Christmas 9. Edible cockney eyes

Down 1. Freddie Mercurys speech 2. Before 3 Down goes down, they go... 3. Take these down before Twelfth Night 4. A crackling alternative to turkey 5. Where you end up after too much turkey 6. They had the bright idea of following this 7. No vacancies for J.C. 8. Where to pop the fairy at Christmas 9. Santas Scandinavian Airways

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FEATUrE

Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

Whos the boss

Off The Wall talks to one of the powers that be the Drugs & Alcohol Action Teams Substance Misuse Commissioning Manager, Carol Stanaway.
Book - the Poetry of Robert Burns Film - O Brother, Where Art Thou? Very funny and with a great blue grass sound track. Album - At the moment its Mumford & Sons (Ive seen them 3 times at Glastonbury) Food - It has to be Italian and probably the meal I had in Florence in September ricotta ravioli and local salad, followed by raspberry crme brulee.
What are the best/worst holidays you have been on, and why? We know the benefits of attending DHI, whats your understanding of DHI? What do you like about it? Is there anything you dislike or would change?

hat are your favourite book, film, album and food?

Best - San Francisco September 2008 with my son Chris and husband Colin for Chriss 21st Worst - A week in Arran, an island in Scotland c1980, when it rained all week.
As the commissioner what does your job entail?

What is the emphasis within the next year going to be on?

Coordinating the local response to the Governments national drug policy and ensuring we have quality local services in place that meet the needs of our clients, and are value for money.

They provide holistic community services to support people through treatment to their recovery, including support around housing. DHI have recently started to provide womens specific services as this was a gap. I like the way DHI work in partnership with other organisations as well as service users. I will want DHI to continue to be innovative for the clients benefit.

The NTA state that the role of treatment is to initiate recovery therefore the emphasis next year will be on increasing the numbers of people who successfully complete treatment and reducing the number of people who represent to the system.
Why isnt there more funding for alcohol services?

The funding we receive is to provide a range of treatment for people who require support for

Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

s?

Pictured clockwise form this pic: Carol Perugia Italy 2011; Carols favourite film; Emmeline Pankhurst; Robert Burns; Yoda

Who would be your perfect fantasy dinner party guests?

For conversation and entertainment it would be Robert Burns, Mozart, Robert Plant, Billy Bragg, Emmeline Pankhurst, my son and husband.
In the event of a zombie apocalypse, what steps would you take to ensure your survival?

their drug or alcohol problems. In B&NES the treatment providers work holistically with all clients to provide the support that they need. We are currently reviewing where we spend our money to see if it is possible to re-direct any money into alcohol services in the future.
Do I have to pay for detox treatment?

show that often the best support is from someone whos done it who is an expert by experience.
Who do you think is the greatest Briton, and why?

Yoda and I have this covered Yoda is my dog. We are both small but resilient and with the light sabre and Yoda cloak (left behind by my son) may the force be with us.
Why did you choose the job? Did the job choose you?

Community drug and alcohol services are free, including detox services. Residential services are means tested.
What is your opinion of peer-led activities/peer mentoring, is it a good thing?

The Scottish poet Robert Burns, because he was a man for the people and he was kind to animals even a mouse.
We hear you volunteer for One25. Do you like baking cakes then?

Because I have a strong social conscience and believe that society should be fair and just for all its citizens.
Do you have ideas how you could reach the younger generation, 20-25?

Yes. I support and encourage it. There is lots of evidence to

I do bake cakes, and will be baking this weekend as Im doing outreach with them on Tuesday night.

The best promotion is word of mouth, so having services that young people want and want to tell other young people about.

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Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

Bushisms!
They misunderestimated me. I know the human being and fish can coexist peacefully. Too many good docs are getting out of the business. Too many OB-GYNs arent able to practice their love with women all across this country. Make no mistake about it, I understand how tough it is, sir. I talk to families who die. The California crunch really is the result of not enough powergenerating plants and then not enough power to power the power of generating plants. Families is where our nation finds hope, where wings take dream. If the terriers and bariffs are torn down, this economy will grow. Our enemies are innovative and resourceful, and so are we. They

The wit and wisdom of the ex most powerful man on the planet...

This thawtook a while to thaw, its going to take a while to unthaw. never stop thinking about new ways to harm our country and our people, and neither do we. I know how hard it is for you to put food on your family. Ive abandoned free market principles to save the free market system. Rarely is the question asked: Is our children learning? As yesterdays positive report card shows, childrens do learn when standards are high and results are measured. You teach a child to read, and he or her will be able to pass... a literacy test. Then you wake up at the high school level and find out that the illiteracy level of our children are appalling. Ive been in the Bible every day since Ive been the president. I remember meeting a mother of a child who was abducted by the North Koreans right here in the Oval Office. Throughout our history, the words of the Declaration have inspired immigrants from around the world to set sail to our shores. These immigrants have helped transform 13 small colonies into a great and growing nation of more than 300 people. And so, in my State of themy State of the Unionor statemy speech to the nation, whatever you want to call it, speech to the nationI asked Americans to give 4,000 years4,000 hours over the nextthe rest of your lifeof service to America. Thats what I asked4,000 hours. Lets make sure that there is certainty during uncertain times in our economy. We want people owning their homewe want people owning a businesses.

Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

11

timeout: easy Healthy recipes

POST-CHrISTMAS rECIPE #1

Turkey, ham and leek pie

By Tanya Galic
Ingredients Method

90g butter 25g flour litre turkey stock A pinch of salt Black pepper 1 tablespoon English mustard 350g cooked turkey or chicken cut into chunks or strips 125g cooked ham cut into chunks 6 leeks, cleaned and chopped 2 tablespoons chopped parsley 1 lightly beaten egg 200g ready made shortcrust Pastry

Preheat the oven to 220C (425F) mark 7. Melt the butter in a heavy based pan and add the flour off the heat. Whisk in the turkey stock and cook over a medium heat, stirring all the time until the sauce is smooth. Season well and add the mustard. Place the turkey pieces, ham and leeks in the bottom of an oval pie dish, sprinkle with the fresh parsley and pour over the sauce. Roll out the pastry on a lightly

floured surface and cover the pie dish with the pastry. Brush the top of the pastry with a little beaten egg and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes. After this time reduce the heat to 180C (350F) mark 4 and bake for a further 15 minutes.

POST-CHrISTMAS rECIPE #2

Spicy Turkey Soup

By Tanya Galic (The soup may now be cooled and frozen for up to 1 month.)
Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil 1 large onion , halved and sliced into thin strips 1 red pepper , seeded and sliced into thin strips 2 tsp ground coriander - tsp chilli flakes 3 tbsp basmati rice or long grain rice 1 l hot turkey or chicken stock 250g 9 oz turkey meat, cut into thin strips (leg meat will have the most flavour) 410g can chickpeas , drained and rinsed a handful of fresh coriander or flatleaf parsley, roughly chopped (optional)

Method

Heat the oil in a large pan, add the onion and fry for 5 minutes or so, stirring every now and then until it starts to soften. To make the soup, add the red pepper, ground coriander, chilli and rice and stir round the

pan for about a minute. Pour in the hot stock, stir in the turkey and chickpeas and season well. Bring to the boil, cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes, until the vegetables and rice are tender. Stir in the coriander or parsley and its ready.

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Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

timeout: easy Healthy recipes

POST-CHrISTMAS rECIPE #3

roast Turkey Curry

By Tanya Galic
Ingredients

4 tbsp vegetable oil 1 onion, finely chopped 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1 tbsp tomato pure 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground coriander tsp turmeric tsp chilli powder tsp garam masala tsp salt 450 g roast turkey, cut into pieces 1 tsp grated ginger, optional 1 tsp lemon juice 1 small bunch coriander, chopped
Method

1. Heat 3 tablespoons of the oil in a saucepan and add the onion and garlic. Fry for 6-7 minutes till the onion is lightly browned. 2. In a small bowl, mix the

tomato pure with the remaining oil, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chilli powder, garam masala and salt to form a thick paste. Tip the paste into the onion mixture and fry for half a minute. 3. Stir in the turkey pieces and cook for 1 minute.

4. Add 400ml of hot water from the kettle and simmer for 3-4 minutes. Mix in the ginger (if using) and the lemon juice. 5. Garnish with coriander and serve with plain basmati rice, bread and a salad of crisp iceberg lettuce.

POST-CHrISTMAS rECIPE #4

Sesame Shredded Brussel Sprouts

By Tanya Galic
This dish has been thoroughly tested on both Brussels fanatics and known sprout haters and apparently it ROCKS! (especially for Kates husband, Scott!!) Serves 6
Ingredients

trimmed and grated 2.5cm fresh root ginger, grated (optional) 1 tbsp lightly toasted sesame seeds to taste salt

Method

2 tbsp vegetables oil 2 cloves garlic, crushed 450g Brussel sprouts, washed,

1. Heat the oil in a frying pan and lightly fry the garlic. 2. Add the grated Brussels sprouts and stir fry lightly to retain crispness and colour. 3. If using, squeeze the grated ginger in your hand over the pan to release the juice. Discard the pulp. 4. Add the toasted sesame seeds and toss well.

Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

13

timeout: easy Healthy recipes

POST-CHrISTMAS rECIPE #5

Thai Turkey Salad

By Tanya Galic
Ingredients

2 tbsp fresh lime juice 55 ml soy sauce 1 tbsp ginger, grated 2 tbsp fish sauce 2 tsp honey 450g cooked turkey meat, in strips 2 red chillies, seeded and finely chopped 4 spring onions, sliced

1 cucumber, peeled, seeded and sliced into 1cm half moons 3 tomatoes, cut into wedges 2 tbsp coriander leaves 2 tbsp basil black pepper mixed salad leaves, to serve
Method

1. In a saucepan combine the lime

juice, soy, ginger, star anise, fish sauce and honey. 2. Cook for 2 minutes over a medium heat, allow to cool. 3. Add the remaining ingredients, except the salad leaves. Season to taste and serve on the dressed salad leaves.

vEGGIE CHrISTMAS rECIPE #6

Pine Nut & Carrot roast with Mushroom Sauce

By Tanya Galic
Serves 6
Ingredients Method

25g butter 1 onion, finely chopped 225g carrots, finely grated 2 celery sticks, finely chopped 225g pine nuts - chopped roughly 2 tbsp chopped parsley squeeze of lemon juice 2 eggs sea salt and freshly ground black pepper freshly grated nutmeg For the Sauce: 7g dried mushrooms, rinsed 600ml water 25g butter 1 small onion, thinly sliced 2 tsp corn flour 2 tbsp grape juice or non-alcoholic wine 2 tbsp soy sauce

1. Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/ gas 4. Grease and line a 500g/1lb loaf tin. 2. Melt the butter in a large pan and fry the onion, without browning, for 5 minutes, then add the carrot and celery and cook uncovered for 10 minutes. 3. Remove from heat and add the pine nuts, parsley, lemon juice and eggs. 4. Season well with salt, pepper and nutmeg. 6. Pour into the tin and bake for 40 minutes until golden brown and firm in the centre. To prepare the sauce: 1. Put the mushrooms and water in a saucepan, bring to the boil then remove from heat and leave to soak for 40 minutes, then drain, reserving the liquid and chop the mushrooms. 5. Melt the butter in a saucepan, add the onion

and fry for 10 minutes until lightly browned. 6. Add the mushrooms and gently cook for 30 minutes until tender. 7. Mix the corn flour with the reserved liquid, grape juice/ nonalcoholic wine and soy sauce, then add to the mushroom mixture. Bring to the boil, stirring until slightly thickened. Season to taste. Turn the roast out onto a plate, slice thickly and drizzle with the mushroom sauce. Serve with roast potatoes, sprouts, carrots and all the trimmings for a classic vegetarian Christmas.

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Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

timeout: Book & film reviews

The Lost Symbol
By Dan Brown (Bantam, 2009) l This excellent novel was recommended by the neighbour who lent it to me. Being already familiar with the books and films of The Da Vinci Code and Angels And Demons, I began this novel with great expectations; I was not to be disappointed. If anything, I enjoyed this work even more than the two aforementioned. In the word coined by the Washington Post, I found it unputdownable. The story again features Harvard professor, Robert Langdon, as the principal character. The main action, and theres plenty of it, takes place in and around the Capitol building in Washington, DC. Langdon quickly finds himself embroiled in a world of sinister Masonic secrets, Ancient Mysteries and the search for his close friend and mentor, Peter Solomon, who has been kidnapped and had his right hand sent as proof. If the intricate details of Masonic rites and beliefs are accurate, Brown must either be a Mason, know one who has revealed such secrets or have done an incredible amount of research into what is generally considered to be a closely guarded secret society. The action in this novel never lets up until its explosive conclusion, keeping the reader (or this reader, at any rate) spellbound from start to finish. That is to say, up to the point where the bad guy, whose true identity came as a complete surprise, is dealt with and Solomon is found. There then follows a rather esoteric and long-winded epilogue about the search for the Ancient Mysteries and The Word, most of which I found somewhat tedious after all the foregoing

action and adventure. Still, chacun a son gout. All in all, my slight misgivings about the final section notwithstanding, I recommend this as a riveting read, whether you have read Browns other works or not. Jim Timoney

The Kings Speech

Starring Colin Firth. l I went to see this film at the Odeon Senior Screen showing, their reduced price Tuesday morning presentation for the fifty plus clientele. Id heard good reports of it and it happens to be a period of history that interests this former history student. Allowing for a degree of cinematic licence, I found the film interesting, fascinating and enjoyable to watch. Firth gave an excellent portrayal of a man with a pronounced stammer which made it almost impossible for him to speak in public. Some of the scenes where hes going to extremes to correct this stammer seemed to be somewhat over the top, but who knows? It was a joy to see how the future King George VI gradually changed his attitude to his speech therapist. Initially expecting to be treated with deference, he eventually looked upon his mentor as a friend as well as his therapist, being on first name terms, at least in private. Apart from the main story of Bertie, as he was known

to his family and eventually his therapist, overcoming his stammer, the film gave a good background of the 1930s, touching on the abdication crisis, Hitlers lebensraum in Europe and the Duke of York having to ascend the throne as George VI. Jim Timoney

Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

15

timeout: film reviews

Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows, Part 2
Starring Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson and a host of others. l This film will almost certainly be available on DVD by the time you read this review. I was invited to go and see it at the Odeon by a fellow Harry fan. Its courtesy of her that Ive now read all of the novels and seen all of the films. Whilst this last one was far from being among my favourites, I still thoroughly enjoyed it and was glad of the opportunity to see the conclusion of the decade-long series. This film is definitely much darker and more violent than any of its predecessors, showing as it does the climactic war between Voldermort (yes, I dare to use his name!) and Harry and his plucky band of supporters. Voldermorts doubts about is the final scene, tacked on as if an afterthought, set nineteen years in the future. I suppose, though, it serves to bring closure to the whole saga and let the viewer know that all the good guys, the quick and the dead, lived happily ever after. This is by far the most action packed film of the series. It continues and finalises the search for the remaining horcruces (look, its a pretend word, so Ill pluralise it as I choose) and settles the conflict between Voldermorts forces and Harry and the Dark Lords opponents. A must for all Harry fans (and any others who enjoy a good fantasy feature). Jim Timoney

forces appear unstoppable but it was a pleasure to watch the plot unfold as the forces of Good gradually prevailed. My favourite scene was Harrys heart to heart with the late Dumbledore its a fantasy, just accept it! The only part I have my

To Kill A Mockingbird
By Harper Lee (Heinemann, 1960) l Junes Book Club choice was a classic novel which celebrated its fiftieth anniversary last year. The title comes from the local belief that its OK to shoot all the bluejays you want but remember its a sin to kill a mockingbird. The reason is that mockingbirds dont do anything to upset humans all they do is sing their hearts out for us. Set in the Deep South of the USA in the 1930s, it is told in the first person by Scout Finch and is seen through the eyes of Scout and her older brother, Jem. The early part of the book spends a great deal of time relating their childhood days and the development of their relationship with their mysterious and unseen neighbour, Boo Radley. I found myself getting a bit bored, or at least impatient to get to the main plot; I suspect, however, that this was due to having seen the much acclaimed film version from 1962, starring Gregory Peck. Surprisingly, I had never before read the novel, so I was interested to see how I would find it in comparison with the film. I was not to be disappointed. The plot centres on the rape of a white girl, the blame for which is placed with a black man, Tom Robinson. Atticus, the father of Scout and Jem, is appointed to defend Tom, earning him the disapprobation of most of the white community. The valiant attempt by Atticus to defend Tom in the face of such prejudice makes for very stirring reading. I found that the author evokes growing up in that time and place with extreme sensitivity and insight. She really does make me feel as if Im looking through the eyes of Scout and Jem. Im glad I finally got around to reading it after all this time. Jim Timoney

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Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

Do Solo Housing offer accommodation on the Millennium Falcon?

A concert promoter wanted to book Placido Domingo for a performance, but he couldnt afford a tenor. Instead he booked a singer who was a fiver.

Man goes into a video shop: Id like Batman Forever. Shop owner: I want it back here tomorrow at 7.30!

How does Santa keep his elves working well? He gives them elfy food!

The Mafia tried to muscle in on a Pizzeria owners business in Rome. They wanted a pizza the action.

What did Santa do when his sledge developed a fault? He had the presents of mind to land it safely.

What happens when one of Santas elves falls ill? He doesnt worry they have the National Elf Service!

Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

17

funny restaurants
Lost that appetite yet?...

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Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

Whats on at DHI

Bath & ne somerset services

DHI Bath The Beehive, Beehive Yard, Bath, BA1 5BD

DHI Bath The Beehive, Beehive Yard, Bath. Telephone: 01225 329411, Fax: 01225 334734, info@dhibath.org.uk DHI Information Takeaway 31 Monmouth St, Bath BA1 2AN. Tel: 01225 334185 (Reach floating support services at the information take away on 01225 422156), fax: 01225 465774, info@dhibath.org.uk For information on the Genesis Trust contact Carey or Denise on 01225 463549 Monday
10.30-12.00 1.002.30 5.30 - 7.30

thursday Mindfulness Group Abstinence Group Monday Clubs Book Club, Film Night, Games Group Football (At Percy Community Centre)
11.0012.30

6.45 - 8.15

1.00-2.30 3.00-4.00 6.00 - 7.00 6.00-7.00

Alcohol Education & Change Programme (4 Weekly Cycle) Positive Change

Acupuncture

Family Group relapse Prevention (Abstinence Support Group)

tuesday Friday
10.30-12.00 1.00-2.30 3.00-4.30

Womens Group Positive Change Alcohol Education & Change Programme (4 Weekly Cycle)

12.00-1.00 1.00-2.30 3.00-4.00

Off The Wall Abstinence Group

Acupuncture

Saturday Wednesday
12.00-2.00 1.00-2.30 3.00-4.00 5.30-6.30 10.00-2.00 10.30-11.30

Gardening Group Lifestyle Workshops

Acupuncture

Gardening Group
Acupuncture

Yoga

Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

19
open group Positive Change Group: What pleasures does my drug use bring? ... What difficulties does it take away? ... What problems does it add to my life? ... What good things does it take away? ... How can I develop my confidence and coping skills? ... How will I keep this going? Structured 6 week course for clients who are working towards either controlled use or a drug free lifestyle. Intake dates for this group are available from reception. Alcohol Education and Change Groups (4 weekly programme starting on the first Thursday of each month) Week 1 - Alcohol Education Group A group offering information on alcohol, exploring the impact on health, social and personal functioning. Weeks 2, 3 and 4 - Alcohol SelfDirected Change Group: 3 session structured group, to elicit motivation and discuss strategies for making changes in drinking. Drop In support group for abstinent clients. Womens Group Women only support group. Battle Against tranquillizers (BAt) A support group for people wishing to make changes to their use of tranquillizers. Family Group A support group for family members affected by anothers substance use. Monday Club A social activity group which meets weekly. This includes a film club, book club and games evenings. Gardening Group Award winning service user led allotment project off the Wall Service User led magazine group. NB Anyone wishing to attend groups needs to ensure that if they are still using drugs that they have not used since midnight the night before.

Groups & Services

Auricular acupuncture Acupuncture sessions are open to anybody experiencing problems with drugs or alcohol,no need to book just turn up a little before the session start time and come as and when youd like. Sessions are also open to family members and carers. DHI Beehive Drop in and internet caf 9-5 pm Monday - Friday, Saturday 10 1pm Abstinence Group: What is the next step? ... How can I increase importance without adding stress? ... How can I build a lifestyle to support my recovery? ... What are my triggers and how can I manage these? ... How can I prevent lapses becoming relapses? This group aims to support people who are drug and alcohol free and who are committed to remaining abstinent. It is an open group that clients can join at any time Lifestyle Workshops: Series of single issue support groups focusing on recovery. Topics include: Becoming Assertive Improving Self-Esteem Better Relationships Managing Stress and Anxiety Mindfulness group : A meditation group to help with managing emotions and cravings.

DHIs award-winning allotment

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Off The Wall No.18, July/August 2010

Whats on at DHI

south Glos. services

Tower road North Warmley
DHI South Gloucestershire South Gloucestershire Drug & Alcohol Service, 130 Tower Road North, Warmley BS30 8XN. Freephone: 0800 0733011, Tel: 01454 868750, Fax: 01454 868755, Info@dhisouthglos.org.uk Monday
1:00-2:30pm 6:30-7:30pm

The Bungalow Yate

Yate Treatment Centre The Bungalow, 24a North Road, Yate BS37 7PA. Tel: 01454 273643, info@dhisouthglos.org.uk Monday
11:00-12:00pm 12:00-1:00pm 1:30-3:00pm 3:00-5:00pm 1:00-5:00pm

Open Group Peer Support Group

Acupuncture Meditation Engagement Group Cannabis Awareness & Information Session Through Care DrOP IN

tuesday tuesday
1:00-3:00pm 3:00-5:00pm 5:00-6:00pm 6:00-7:30pm

Alcohol Course Cannabis Awareness & Information Session Acupuncture relapse Prevention

11:30-12:30pm 1:00-2:00pm 2:00-4:00pm 7:00-9:00pm

Acupuncture Open Group ACE Group Family Group

Wednesday
1:00-2:30pm 1:00-4:00pm

Wednesday Into Action Computer Access

11:00-1:00pm 2:00-3:00pm 3:00-4:30pm 4:30-5:30pm 5:30-6:30pm

thursday
10:00-12:00pm 1:00-3:00pm 7:00-9:00pm

BAT DrOP IN ACE Group Family Group

Grandparents Group 1st Wednesday of every month BAT DrOP IN Induction Course Acupuncture Open Group

thursday
1:30-2:30pm 3.00-4:30pm 6:00-7:00pm 7:00-8:00pm

Friday
10:00-11.30am 10:30-12.00pm 11:30-12:30pm 1:00-2:00pm 2:00pm 2:30-4:00pm

Induction Course Womens Group Acupuncture Meditation Healthy Lunch Club Engagement Group

Healthy Lunch Club Into Action relapse Prevention Peer Support Group

Friday
10:00-12:00pm 10:00-11:30pm 12:00-1:30pm

Housing Clinic By appointment only Alcohol Course Alcohol Course

Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

21

Whats on at DHI

swindon services
The Old School House Swindon
DHI Swindon The Old School House, Maxwell St, Swindon SN1 5DR. Freephone: 0800 9704830, tel: 01793 617177, fax: 01793 486591, info@dhiswindon.org.uk Monday
11.00-1.00pm 11.30-1.00pm 1.00-2.00pm Cooking class

The Boxing Gym

There is access to the boxing gym above the Old School House. Contact us for more information.

1:1 Sessions
Other appointments outside of these times are available to you at a place of your convenience.

Stimulant Group workshop Basic sewing class

tuesday
11.00-12.30pm 12.30-2.00pm

Triage
An initial assessment can be completed over the phone Monday - Friday 9.00am - 5pm. Call us on 0800 970 4830. This number is free from call boxes and landlines.

Pre-treatment workshop Cannabis Group workshop

Wednesday
11.00-12.30pm 1.00pm

relapse Prevention workshop Acupuncture and relaxation

thursday
1.00pm 2.00pm-4.00pm

Acupuncture and relaxation Allotment

Friday
11.30-12.30pm 1.00pm

Positive Change workshop Acupuncture and relaxation

22
OTW rEGULAr

Off The Wall No.24, Winter 2011/12

Letters page
Time to get it off your chest?
Reader response In issue 23 we had a reader asking for advice in relation to a friendship that turned bad. The reader was being pestered by an individual and wondered what he should or could do - was going to the police an option? Dear otW

Dear Reader I truly understand your nervousness. By contacting the police you have already given yourself a safety net, should you have to call them again their response will be immediate and the guy will no doubt be arrested. I surmise that your situation comes under the remit of Domestic Violence. There is an organisation that is linked to DHI called Southside this organisation supports many facets of Domestic Violence and may be able to offer you the support you obviously need. They offer a very flexible and innovative approach to circumstances such as yours. They mostly deal with families but I feel sure that your problem fits their criteria. Their contact details are as follows: Telephone 01225 331243, www.bathnes. gov.uk/communityandliving/ crimeprevention/ domesticviolenceabuse/Pages/ default.aspx I hope this information helps.

Bloody Christmas. If ever there was a time of the year when I feel its most difficult to limit my consumption, then its the chaos running up to Christmas and particularly the week between Christmas Day and New Year. I have managed to reduce my level of drinking over the last 18 months (despite a few hiccups over last Christmas), and have a nice, sober, social life, but Im worried about the constant bashing of my senses by the media encouraging me to have a merry Christmas ... the pressure is unbearable. Id love to get away from it all but money problems leave me with the only option of shutting the doors, turning the TV off and settling down to a few good books. I wonder if Off The Wall readers have any reccomendations for books or any other pastimes that I can immerse myself in for a couple of weeks? Anonymously yours
Dear otW

for something if I sent some in. Also, does the magazine offer any creative writing courses or do the editorial team have any suggestions or tips to help with my writing? Clare Daroad
Dear otW

Hi there - I enjoy writing stories in my spare time and I wondered if Off The Wall would have room

Attending DHIs Somer Valley Radio programme project was unfamiliar territory for me being a building contractor for the best part of my life. I found Rupert Everett (the facilitator to Somer Valley) very encouraging and helpful. It broadened my horizons and it opened my eyes to the technical side of radio production. I found it very interesting. I also learnt how to produce and edit a one hour radio programme. I found it very helpful in implementing my recovery. I felt a sense of achievement and enjoyment. Gordon

Got a problem? Get in touch! Off The Wall Magazine The Beehive, Beehive Yard, Bath, BA1 5BD T 01225 329411 E offthewall@dhibath.org.uk. Each issue we will be printing readers problems and letters, and rather than giving our response we want our readers to offer their advice. So if you can help this issues readers, please write in... And dont forget, theres a crisp tenner for the best response each issue. Answeres to Andrews 80s quiz on page 7 EVENtS 1. 1988; 2. Live Aid; 3. 1982; 4. Pacific; 5. Mount St. Helens. tV 6. Kristin Shepard (accept Kristin); 7. 1981; 8. Cheers; 9. Any one from: Frank Bough, Selina Scott or Nick Ross; 10. The Bill. MUSIC No. 1s 11. The Jam; 12. West Germany; 13. Phil Collins; 14. Reet Petite; 15. Stock Aitken Waterman

Check out www.dhi-online.org.uk for more useful information

useful numbers
National contacts
Alcohol concern 0207 9287377 Alliance, the (methadone) 02083 744395 Cannabis Hemp Information Club 0145 8835769 Cocaine www.cocaine.org Date rape Drugs www.roofile.com Drugscope www.drugscope.org.uk Drug Education Training 0117 99415810 Ecstasy.Org www.ecstasy.org Erowid www.erwid.org Good Drugs Guide www.thegooddrugsguide.com Green Party Drugs Group 0171 7370100 Hemp UK 0186 5311151 Hit www.Hit.org.uk Howard league For Penal reform 0171 2817722 Justice For Woman 0181 3403699 Lifeline www.lifeline.org.uk Mainliners 0201 5825434 Medical Marijuana Foundation 0157 9346592 National Alcohol Helpline 0345 320202 National Drugs Helpline 0800 776600 National Sexual Health/HIv 0800 5671123 Oxfordshire User Team 0800 0320829 Project LSD 0171 2881500 release www.release.org.uk/bust.html re-Solv www.re-solv.org Traffasi 02085 339563 Transform Box 59, 82 Colston Street, Bristol. BS1

Local contacts
DHI Head Office and Bath Area Office The Beehive Beehive Yard, Bath, BA1 5BD tel 01225 329411 fax 01225 334734 email info@dhibath.org.uk DHI Information Takeaway 31 Monmouth St Bath BA1 2AN tel: 01225 334185 (Reach floating support services at the information take away on 01225 422156) fax: 01225 465774 email: info@dhibath.org.uk DHI South Gloucestershire South Glos. Drug & Alcohol Service 130 Tower Road North Warmley BS30 8XN Freephone: 0800 0733011 tel 01454 868750 fax 01454 868755 email info@dhisouthglos.org.uk DHI Swindon The Old School House Maxwell St Swindon SN1 5DR Freephone: 0800 9704830 tel 01793 617177 fax 01793 486591 email info@dhiswindon.org.uk DHI Kingswood Office 10 Kingswood Foundation Bristol, BS15 8BD Yate Treatment Centre The Bungalow 24a North Road Yate BS37 7PA Tel: 01454 273643 Email: info@dhisouthglos.org.uk