Latest news with #RecreationCommittee
Scotsman
28-05-2025
- Scotsman
Steve Cardownie: Take a stroll around Edinburgh's hidden gem
When I was convener of the Recreation Committee on the City of Edinburgh Council one of the properties that came as part of the committee's property portfolio was Lauriston Castle near Davidson's Mains. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Visit Scotland says that 'Lauriston Castle is a hidden gem in Edinburgh with beautiful free grounds cradling the sea and with stunning views. Spend time relaxing in our calm and tranquil Japanese garden. Double up with a visit to historic Cramond and take a walk along the iconic promenade.' The Japanese Garden at Lauriston Castle, Edinburgh. The grounds include the Edinburgh/ Kyoto Friendship Garden which is one of the largest Japanese gardens created in the UK in the last century and which I had the pleasure of declaring open back in August 2002. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad It was designed in traditional Japanese style and features a pond, a waterfall and various Japanese plants with bench seating provided throughout. It was created as a symbol of the friendship and cultural exchanges between Edinburgh and Kyoto and was designed by Japanese designer, Takashi Sawano. The grounds also have an Italian garden, designed by William Playfair in 1844. As they had no children, the property was bequeathed to the city in 1926 by its last private owners, Mr and Mrs Reid. They left the castle and its grounds to 'Scotland' on the condition that their home would be preserved as it was gifted. The city council has responsibility for the care and maintenance of the house which was 'modernised' by the Reids, who installed modern plumbing and electricity and also added their collection of furniture and artwork to the house. I have spent many an hour walking my dog in the grounds, meandering along the circular, wooded path, taking in the impressive views across The Firth of Forth to The Kingdom of Fife. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad With a car park and serviced by nearby public transport it is readily accessible and offers a great opportunity to take a break from the hustle and bustle of modern living and which is no more than twenty minutes from the city centre. Visit Scotland's description of the castle as 'a hidden gem' is spot on - see for yourself!
Yahoo
05-03-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Seabrook Select Board candidate 2025: Paul Knowles
Name: Paul Knowles Town: Seabrook Occupation: Retired Political or civic experience highlights: I have been elected by the townspeople to the Planning Board, served as a member of the Budget Committee, and currently hold the position of vice chairman of the Recreation Committee. Additionally, I am a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason and a proud member of the Shriners Burn Institute Hospital, an organization that has helped countless children worldwide. How would you address concerns residents have about rising property taxes?: Our town is facing significant challenges, and if we do not take action soon, we risk losing the beautiful small town we have known and loved for decades. With my extensive experience in town politics, I understand what Seabrook needs to address these issues. This election is not a popularity contest; it is about the future of our town. We must curb unnecessary spending to prevent our taxes from continuing to rise. What are your top three priorities if elected?: Our town has evolved over the years, but it remains full of wonderful people, including our elderly residents who deserve to see Seabrook thrive. If elected to the Select Board, I will prioritize the needs of our elderly, children, and taxpayers. I will not make promises I cannot keep, but I pledge to do everything in my power to preserve the town we call home, just as my father, ASA Knowles Jr., did. What else should voters know about you?: The current leadership has had their chance and proven ineffective. It is time for new leadership that can bring about the necessary changes. My door will always be open, and my phone will always be on. I will never forget my roots and where I came from. Whether you love me or hate me, I will always have your back. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Seabrook Select Board candidate 2025: Paul Knowles
