April '12 by Anglo Printers

Essential Drogheda’s FREE Social, Entertainment & Lifestyle Magazine

Vol 3. Issue 6. - April 2012

Drogheda

ISSN 2009-2733

Up e M Pick EE FR zine Maga

“Are You In It?”

SHARON! The Voice of Ireland singer on Kian Egan, being on TV & why she’s doing it for her son

Distributed Free to Over 19,000 Homes & Businesses

Grow Your Own All the help you need to start a vegetable garden

supporting

This Month in Essential Drogheda

E Social

6-8 Drogheda’s nightlife in pictures

E Weddings

19-20 Local couples say ‘I do’

E events

E Out & About

16-17 Not-to-be missed events

E Real Life

4 Can’t Get Through The Month Without…

E Exteriors

10 Grow Your Own Grub GIY members show how to grow, sow and harvest in your garden all year round

E Business

21 Mock Wedding at the d Hotel Glitz and glamour from the big day 28 Ready Steady Run Kelly Kierans’s countdown to the Boyne 10k

E entertainment E feature

Carmel Riggs

E drive

22 If Looks Could Thrill Stephen Watson tries out the Open Astra GTC & Top 5 Cars Under 5 Years Old for less than e10,000

E tech

22 Gadget Connect by Mark Lye

E interiors

E Beauty

24 Bon Appetit Recipes from The Rendezvous Bar & Restaurant in Mell

E fashion

18 Colour Explosion Mix daring patterns and lively prints for a girly look

On the Co

f you’ve ever wondered what it might be like to grow your own spuds, don’t think about it, do it! Ask any grower and they will tell you April is the busiest time of year for sowing – and also the most exciting! E talks to members of Drogheda’s Grow Your Own (GIY) group on pages 10 & 11 who reveal what they love most about growing, sowing and harvesting vegetables in their garden all year round. On the Voice of Ireland, Sharon Gaynor’s star is rising week in, week out – check out page 30 where the Drogheda singer reveals her biggest moment on the RTE talent show so far. Finally ladies it’s time to get WOWed! The Women of Worth Awards are back next month – and we want you to nominate someone who is inspiring in the workplace or in the community. Simply fill out the nomination form on page 12 and acknowledge her efforts. Enjoy your read…

12 Awards have the WOW Factor Nominate your Woman of Worth 24 Know Your Rights Dermot Monahan answers your legal queries 14 Make-up Masterclass by Gillian Moore of Fuschia 15 Want Younger Looking Skin Emma Woods reviews Micro Needling

editor’s letter

23 Spring Clean Your Kitchen The most used room in the house gets a fresh new look

E Food

26-27 All the latest in books and music 28-29 Event Guide Dates for your diary 30 The Best of Everything with Drogheda singer and The Voice of Ireland favourite Sharon Gaynor

Editor

Kirsty Lenihen and Dawn Finnegan pictured at the Irish Wheelchair

DH436-Essential Drog Ad 21Fashion Mar_Layout 1 Scotch 21/03/2012 10:04 Page 1 recently Show in Hall Shopping Centre ver: Association

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Essential Drogheda

Anglo House, Mell Industrial Estate, Drogheda, Co. Louth. Tel: 041 9830297. Fax: 041 9835485. e: info@essentialdrogheda.com w: www.essentialdrogheda.com Drogheda’s FREE Social, Entertainment, and Lifestyle Magazine Published Monthly and Distributed Free to over 19,000 Homes and Businesses in Drogheda Managing Director: Padraic Kierans e: padraic@essentialdrogheda.com Editor: Carmel Riggs Mob: 087-2248845 e: editor@essentialdrogheda.com Administration: Niamh Gardiner Tel: 041-9830297 e: info@essentialdrogheda.com Advertising Sales: John Doherty Mob: 085-1004001 e: ads@essentialdrogheda.com Design & Layout: Aisling Foley, Anglo Printers Photographer: Eric O’Neill Mob: 086-3462126 Photo Contributors: Jimmy Weldon, Tony Campbell, Adivas Fotos, Peter Rowan Contributors: Claudia Werner, Emma Woods, Gillian Moore, Elaine Keogh, Dermot Monahan, Stephen Watson, Mark Lye, Ciaran D’Arcy, Lisa Redmond, Eoghan Darcy Emmajane Curran Published by: Essential Drogheda Publications Ltd. Printed by: Anglo Printers Ltd. Lo-Call 1890 624 624 The paper used in the production of Essential Drogheda comes from sustainable, managed sources and has been PEFC certified. Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to present all information accurately, however no liability is accepted for any articles or opinions offered, or advice given, or for omissions from the publication.

Are You In It?

If you would like to see your event or photographs featured in Essential Drogheda, email us at info@essentialdrogheda.com

Can’t get through the Hot Air month without . . . Balloon Claudia Werner selects the best of what April has to offer

Party people

...putting the Sparkle rations! Sparkle Parties is back into your little girl’s birthday celeb ide the ultimate girly a Drogheda-based business aiming to prov The Sparkle Girls will party in the comfort of your own home. and traditional party provide hair styling, nail art, face painting re guests get to sit matu e games for the little ones, while the mor m! drea nt’s back and relax! Sounds like every pare For more details phone 085-8413466 or visit www.sparkleparties.ie

nce Camp Scie …encouraging your kids to

‘eggsperiment’! The Anyone 4 Science Easter Camps run for two days in the , from Barbican Centre on April 10th and 11th 5-7yrs aged ren child 10am-2pm, and is aimed at g ntin rime expe in est and 8-12yrs with an inter ble hum – ders won test with one of nature’s grea ational eggshells. There will be a playful and educ bined com eggs ct disse and opportunity to analyse es, leng chal ing cook egg and with egg dropping Cost e! mor h muc and s cake making bird is €70 with early booking discounts available. Contact the Barbican on 041-9807416.

Fiesta

…watching the Easter Bunny, Smurf, Darth Vadar take to the skies in Trim for the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. In its third year the spectacular display takes place in the Porch Field on April 7th-9th with plenty to keep the whole family amused. There will be aerial displays, a magical night glow, artisan markets, children’s entertainment including Punch & Judy Shows, face painting, balloon modelling, egg & spoon races, archery, fairground rides and much more. Admission is €10 per adult, children U-12 Free when accompanied by adult. Visit www.trimfiesta.com for more details.

Spring Seasoning

…awakening your taste buds while soaking up the first spring sunshine. Sage & Stone Farmers Markets are back with plenty of fresh local produce on offer. There will be a wide variety of tasty foods for sampling, live music and plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained leaving you thoroughly relaxed and chirpy. So dust off your clothes and embrace the season! Markets will take place on the last Saturday of every month from 11am-4pm. The next one will be held on Saturday, April 28th. www.sageandstone.com

Cycle Doggie Walks …walking Vibe …feeling the vibe! The newest

off those chocolate Easter Eggs with your furry mate! Now in its third year, the 5km sponsored dog walk for The Carers Association will take place at 11 locations nationwide on Easter Monday, April 9th. There are great walker rewards available for every dog with everything from shopping vouchers, discounted pet insurance, free dog food and even a holiday up for grabs! It’s €5 for one person and a dog, and €10 for a family of up to four people and a dog. See www.nationaldogwalk.ie for your nearest location.

fitness craze to hit Drogheda is Vibe Cycle, a class where you spin on cycling bikes to the beat of the music. You can try it out at Labfitness, Mell where Laura Armada and her team use choreographed movements for all abilities to burn lots of calories and develop cardio fitness. If Vibe is all about the music, rhythm and simply having fun, then we can’t think of a cooler way to get those legs in shape for the summer months! See www.labfitness.com for class times.

Tel: 041 987 7707 info@droghedaleisure.ie Rathmullan Road, Drogheda, Co. Louth www.droghedaleisure.ie

SkillS ckCampS ed Soccer Camps

Fun Filled Action Pa 5-14 yEAR oLD BoyS & GIRLS So Why Join? l l l l l

Great Fun Friendly & High Quality Coaches Exciting Games, Drills and Activities Train with your friends and make new ones Test your skills

All coaches are qualified and camps/ courses are open to boys and girls between 5 and 14 years of all ability levels and experience. If you are a new player - have fun and learn the key skills. If you already play then improve your overall game and maximise your technical skills.

Easter Camps Now booking Weekly Saturday Soccer Schools Every Saturday 12pm-1pm

uro

April Easter Madness

SoCCer About Soccer School Camps

saver offers

Buy 1 hour

&visits to

Indoor Football

Ten Pin Bowling 2 children’s

Bowling

Astro Tots

1 hour Ten Pin

for just €30 every Sat & Sun

indoor play area

for just €20

Buy 1 hour Ten Pin Bowling 1 Hot Food

& Platter for just €20

Mon – Thurs 10am-6pm

Buy 2 hours

Ten Pin Bowling for just €25

Buy 1 adults carvery

meal in Nano Reids receive 1 children’s

visit to Astro tots

indoor play area

Mon – Thurs 12pm-3pm

Offer valid Sat March 31st-Sun April 15th. T&C’s apply.

Navan Racecourse

Family Day Sunday 29th April First Race 2.00pm approx

FREE, FREE, FREE

Each child, accompanied by an adult will receive a free pony ride, free soft drink and a free ice-cream.

Along with Horse Racing, there will be lots of attractions for all the family!

• Pony Rides • Front Runner Club • Bouncy Castle Village • Design Jockey Silks Workshop • Face painters & lots • Market & Crafts Stalls • Family Picnic Area more! Front Runner Racing Club Children will be introduced to the world of horseracing in a fun and interactive way. They can dress up in Jockey Silks, plait a horses mane and lots more activites

Colouring Competition

Family Tickets

only e20 Admits 2 adults & any number of children!

Crafts Workshop

Learn how to design Jockey Silks in the Crafts Simply design or colour a pictures Room Workshop. Or maybe make a birthday card, children will be able to decorate their to be in with a chance to win cards with glitter, feathers and sequins. one of our great prices. Pictures will be available on the day or bring one with you. There will also be quizzes and word maze For more information competitions too. Contact us on: 046 9021350

www.navanracecourse.ie

E Drogheda

Social

The Party: Sarah & Sinead Kerr’s 21st The Place: McHugh’s The People:

1 Michael Connor and Sarah Kerr 2 Niamh Convey and Claire Dooley 3 Sinead Kerr and Liam Duffy

“Are You In It?”

1 2

3 1 2

3 3

The Party: Niamh Rock’s 21st The Place: The Star Bar The People: 1 Marie, Paul-Eric,

Mary and John Gylling 2 Loretta Delaney and Laura Smith 3 Niamh Rock and Jenny Clinton

The Party: Ann Devitt’s 60th The Place: The Pheasant The People: 1 Paul Devitt and Ciara McGuinness

2 Ann and John Devitt 3 Graham and Jennifer Devitt

4 2

The Party: Aga Hutcheson’s 30th The Place: The Black Bull The People: 1 Charles and Aga Hutcheson 2 Gary

Moore and Philip White 3 Agnes Scabek, Macick Nuzylnki and Magdalina Kosae

E Drogheda

Check out previous issues online @ www.essentialdrogheda.com

The Party: Dreadnots GFC & Callystown NS Strictly Come Dancing The Place: The TLT The People: 1 Jenny Campion

and Laurence McEvoy 2 Patrice Dunne, Laura Clayton and Sarah Rooney 3 Brian Browning and Barbara McMahon 4 Aidan Connor and Ambrose McGinty

1 4

The Party: Townhouse Spa’s 2nd Birthday The Place: Townhouse Spa, Fair St The People: 1 Antonia Sam Banidis

and Niamh Owens 2 Andrea Smith and Marie Leddy 3 Vivienne Henry and Mary O’Brien

The Party: Yvonne Flanagan’s 50th The Place: The Star Bar The People:

1 Shamie and Yvonne Flanagan 2 Cathal Khan and Katie Flanagan 3 Jacinta Farrelly, Kevin Roden, Ann Kierans, and Geraldine Treder

Drogheda’s Smallest Bar with a Large Warm Welcome! Over 23’s Music & Sports 79a West St, Drogheda (formerly Wards)

Specials

Prosecco e20 Large Sauvignon /Pinot Grigio e15

E Drogheda

Social 3

The Party: Amy Judge’s 21st The Place: Nano Reids The People:

1 Ciara O’Dwyer and AnnMarie O’Donoghue 2 Amy Judge and Liadain Holohan 3 Lorna Walsh and Molly Collins 4 Teresa, Amy and Eugene Judge

The Party: Nicola O’Mara’s 40th The Place: Brú The People: 1 Edel Haggins and Gene McGowan

2 Mark and Nicola Finegan with Declan Martin 3 Martha Reilly and Nicola O’Mara

The Party: Ray O’Connor’s 60th The Place: The Glenside The People: 1 Ray and Erin

O’Connor 2 Eugene and Linda Lane 3 Lindsey, Val and Tracy Nolan

2 3

3 4

The Party: Brigid McLeer Exhibition Launch Night The Place: Highlanes Gallery The People: 1 Lesley and

Robert Kearney 2 Michael and Audrey O’Dowd 3 Elaine Cronin 4 Ray Hyland and Sinead Rice

E Drogheda

Check out previous issues online @ www.essentialdrogheda.com

b u r g n w o r u o y row

exteriors

g and are growing, sowinl year rs be em m IY G a ed en al Drogh d veg in their gard an it u fr g in st ve har n too! round – now you ca

amie Oliver might have started the Food Revolution in the UK but in towns all over Ireland a Grow It Yourself (GIY) phenomenon is taking place. More than 100 GIY groups have sprung up throughout the country since the not-for-profit organisation was established in 2009, bringing like-minded people together in the community and online to inspire and empower them to grow their own vegetables. Drogheda’s own growing group was formed two years ago and has gone from strength to strength, meeting once a month in the Boyne Valley Hotel. According to Karen Devine, Drogheda GIY Group Secretary, it is a family-friendly group consisting of a diverse bunch of people, some with no growing experience and others with years of it. ‘I got involved when my great pal Rachel Pearson invited me along,’ she says. ‘I had never grown fruit or vegetables in my own garden – I was a total novice. I was apprehensive going along the first time because I had no experience or knowledge. But I found the local group to

Spuds,

glorious spuds!

E Drogheda

Don’t know what to do when? Visit Giyireland.com and download a free growers calendar for each month of the year. Easy! Ever wondered how Brussels sprouts grow? Plant your seeds now and watch them “sprout” up in time for Christmas!

be so kind and friendly that I soon felt very relaxed and I started to learn loads. ‘So two years ago I was a novice, today I grow my own spuds, onions, garlic, bean and peas, leeks, broccoli, cabbage, Want to rhubarb, blackberries, gooseberries, blackcurrants, decorate your blueberries, strawberries and raspberries. I only own Pumpkin for have two raised beds in my garden but I use pots and Halloween this year? containers to give me extra growing space.’ Plant your pumpkin Drogheda GIY is a free group and members seeds in April! are encouraged to bring their kids or grandkids to get them involved too. ‘I love that my nieces, nephews and godchildren like to work in the garden with me,’ adds Karen. Make ‘Growing is great for kids. It gives them a connection the best with where their food comes from. They learn to of your patio or understand the transition of the seasons and how balcony by using they are responsible for caring for the environment. Also they adore harvesting fresh spuds from the grow-bags to plant Remember strawberries and garden and eating them with melted butter – there growing in spuds. really is nothing more delicious!’

ell, if you’ve ever wondered what it might be like to grow your own, April is the time to act. Quick, don’t think about it. Don’t say ‘I always thought about it’, just do one little thing today. Plant potatoes!

Fun Facts

small spaces can still provide great yield. It’s all about planning and using space efficiently. The videos on trevorskitchengarden.ie are a great source of ideas for how to make small spaces really productive.

It’s this simple:

• Go to the garden centre and buy a bag of seed potatoes and a bag of compost. Lay out the seed potatoes on your windowsill to allow little tubers to form. Take a fork or spade into the garden and dig up the ground where you want to plant your potatoes. Remove stones and break up lumpy clay. Add a generous amount of compost to the soil to give your spuds somewhere nutritious to grow. Shape a nice deep drill (3” wide, 10” deep if you have the space) ready for planting later in the week. • Five days later look closely at the seed potatoes. Choose and keep the three strongest looking tubers on each potato and gently knock the others off. Plant your spuds, tubers facing upwards, 8-10” into the ground and about 10” apart. Your potato harvest will depend on how much space they have to grow underground so give them space and depth to grow. Once your potatoes are all planted cover them over with the soil and give them a good watering. Very soon you’ll see green leaves starting to appear over ground and your delicious, healthy spuds will be growing away underneath. • You’ll find more about caring for your spuds on the giyireland.com website but the main thing to remember is that potatoes are easy to grow, a great way to get kids involved and nothing tastes more amazing than a freshly dug spud from your own garden!

FS42-A1 Poster_Layout 1 16/01/2012 13:09 Page 1

What to sow A

Keywords for April ... slugs and weeds ... the grower has got to keep on top of both.

pril is the busiest time of year for growers – and also the most exciting. This is the time for year for sowing: Indoors - Lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, chillipeppers, cucumber, celery ,celeriac, basil, leeks, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, parsley, courgettes, marrows, artichokes, beans, sweetcorn and pumpkin. Outdoors - Broad beans, onions, pea, beetroot, cabbage, spinach, Brussels sprouts, parsnips, spring onions, leek, carrot, radish, broccoli, turnip and many more. ‘The basic rule of thumb is plant what you love to eat,’ says Mary Quigley, Drogheda GIY member. ‘Don’t worry that you haven’t done it before. Use the GIY website (free) for great tips and hints. Come along to a Drogheda GIY meeting (free) and learn from other growers. Don’t put off growing... come on out and do it!’

Drogheda GIYer Martin Walsh shares his top growing tips

What is your favourite thing about growing? Peace and quiet! When you’re down in the garden it’s your time. For a little bit of work you get an awful lot of return. I get great satisfaction from seeing small seeds take hold and grow into something great and gorgeous, well most of the time. I love when my daughters help out. It’s lovely time for us to spend together. No distraction, just chat and quality time. How did you get involved in growing fruit and vegetables? As kids we’d help my late father Paddy Walsh out in the garden – he adored growing. When I grew up, my dad was there to help me establish my garden in my new home. He’d show me how it was done ‘properly’. I never lost my sense of wonder about planting seeds and months later digging delicious food out of the ground. In 2000, we moved to the countryside with ½ acre. My wife is an avid gardener too so she has 90% for beautiful things and I have the rest for fruit and vegetables. What is the easiest thing to grow? In the garden, peas and potatoes are definitely the easiest and you’ll enjoy great returns for little work. In my little greenhouse, peppers and courgettes are very easy. Why are you a member of Drogheda GIY? Sharing... people who grow love to share. Ideas, information, leftover seeds/seedlings: I love that we share those things. In Drogheda GIY everyone is equal – everyone has something to share or learn no matter how old or new you are to the growing. There’s no pressure to participate, you can sit back, listen, take all the info in and enjoy! What’s your top tip? Above all else, have fun. It’s all about trial and error and the excitement when you get it right! Grown out of your garden? Small garden? No garden? Need more space to grow? Drogheda Community Allotment Association might be able to help. Talk to Tony Conaghy today on 041-9843589. Allotments are inexpensive, fun and you can quickly become part of a community of growers just like you. For more information on Drogheda GIY and how to help ‘Get Ireland Growing’ visit www. giyireland.com, or call Karen on 087-8131901 or Martin on 086-1264608. The next Drogheda meeting takes place on Wednesday, April 18th @ 7.30pm in the Boyne Valley Hotel. Come along – we’d love to see you!

BaCK By popuLar DEMaND…

in April?

FrEE BruSh SEt worth

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the

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Simply log onto our Facebook page facebook.com/thefuschiaeffect and “LIKE” our page to be in with a chance to win

phone 041-9801563 to make an appointment 041 980 1562

info@fuschia.ie

www.fuschia ie

Spring Specials New Special Offers

Make Up Application €25 ONLY

(including False Lashes)

Full Body Spray Tan €20 File and Polish on € 25 Hands & Toes Eyebrow, Lip & €2 0 Chin Wax Eyebrow Tint, Shape & Eyelash Tint € ONLY

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E Drogheda

Awards have the WOW factor

Women of Worth AWARDS 2012 Recognising the major contribution made by women to the economic and social well being of the region

Friday 18th May at 7.30pm in the Westcourt Hotel, Drogheda Awards & Dinner Tickets ONLY e49 available from Drogheda & District Chamber by calling 041 9833544 or emailing enquiries@droghedachamber.com

We invite you to nominate a woman who you think leads by example... Nomination forms and details available from Drogheda Chamber

Success under Duress

The Professions Creative Arts

The Categories

Enterprise

Community Services

Women of Worth Awards

lp us select Drogheda’s Do you know a Woman of Worth? Hesomeone who inspires you most deserving women by nominating

hether she’s visiting with the elderly, providing support for charity organizations or spearheading a new business, the story is the same: they are making a difference in the community. And now these hard working women of Drogheda will get the chance to shine at a glitzy Last year’s winners; Bernadette McGrory, awards ceremony this May. McGrory Accountants, Gwen Fearon Drogheda & District Chamber’s popular Women of on behalf of Colette Farrell ofCalipo Worth Awards returns on May 18th in the Westcourt Theatre, Aoife Collins, Cake Couture and Mairead Sweeney, St. Vincent De Paul Hotel with Minister of State for Small Business John Perry TD the special guest on the night. So if you know a woman who has given her all for her business or the community she lives in – and you think she deserves to be recognized, nominate her for a WOW Award now. ‘The WOW awards are an opportunity for women to gain well deserved recognition for both their career and business achievements,’ says Anne Marie Graham from Healthforce. ‘I would encourage everyone to enter the awards, and to take this great opportunity to not only promote their business but also to raise their profile. It is great to see that we have so many success stories in our community and these awards are a celebration of that.’ 2012

To celebrate women in business Drogheda and District Chamber are delighted to announce the wonderfully uplifting “Women of Worth” Awards. These awards seek to recognise the major contribution made by women to the economic and social well-being of the region. We invite you to nominate a woman who you think leads by example:

Nomination Form

Categories

I/we wish to nominate: (Block Letters)

Please tick one only

Name:

The Professions

Reason for nomination:

(Doctors, solicitors, dentists, etc)

Enterprise (Retail, manufacturing, IT, etc) Nominated by:

Creative Arts (Musicians, craft-makers, etc)

Name: Address:

Community Services (Retail, manufacturing, IT, etc)

Tel:

Success under Duress

Email:

(Start-up businesses in last 4 years)

Nominations will be treated in confidence. Return to: Drogheda Chamber, Broughton House, Dublin Road, Drogheda or e-mail: enquiries@droghedachamber.com. Closing date Friday 4th May 2012. Awards & Dinner Tickets ONLY €49 available from Drogheda Chamber.

Essential 12 Drogheda

The five categories for this year’s awards are:

1 2 3 4

The professions – doctors, solicitors, dentists, lawyers, architects, engineers, scientists, chiropodists, nursing, physiotherapy, optometrists, etc. Enterprise – retail, manufacturing, construction, IT, industrial, electronics, environment, motor trade, cosmetics, beauticians, hospitality, tourism etc. The Arts – graphic design, artists, sculptures, writers, musicians, actors, craft-makers, etc. Community Organisations & Services – children’s welfare, women’s welfare, youth development, hospice care, cancer awareness & research, animal welfare, Garda, help lines, support groups, court officers, etc. Success under Duress – a new award opened to people who have started up businesses in the last four years. This award will recognise women who have been successful in these recessionary times!

To vote for your leading lady, simply fill out the nomination form to the left or download it online at www.droghedachamber. com. The competition is free to enter and, remember, the person that is nominated does not have to be a member of the Chamber, nor does the person that is nominating. This is simply about recognising the wonderful women who enhance the business, economic and social life of the region. The deadline for all nominations is May 4th, 2012. Drogheda & District Chamber would like to thank the premier sponsors of the 2012 awards, Coca-Cola International, and category sponsors Grand Designs Kitchens & Bedrooms and W.O. McGrory & Company as well as media partners Essential Drogheda Magazine.

make a statement this season Whether its fashion, food, beauty, music, entertainment or leisure, Scotch Hall Shopping Centre has it all this Spring/Summer Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget FREE parking after 5pm everyday and all day Sunday visit www.scotchhall.ie for more details Find us on Facebook

MAKE-UP

Beauty

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Masterclass

nless you’re blessed with genes to rival a Victoria Secret’s model, you should wear a little make-up to work. Think of it this way, you wouldn’t leave the house naked, so your face shouldn’t be left bare either. Someone wearing too much make-up to work is as bad as someone wearing none at all. You want to look polished, professional and show your colleagues that you take pride in your appearance. I understand it’s hard to get out on time in the morning, but 10 minutes is all you need to ensure you put your best face forward for the day ahead.

•

Because you want your foundation to stay put all day, I recommend using mineral makeup, as it is proven to last longer than liquid, and you can build up the coverage to get your desired effect. As is always the case with mineral make-up, apply concealer after, preferably using a mineral concealer such as Fuschia’s offering, €21.50, which is designed to heal as well as hide any blemishes.

•

with Gillian Moore of

•

Once your foundation and concealer is Rather than using a bronzer to warm up your complexion, opt applied, quickly turn your attention to your instead for some blusher on the apples of your cheeks – preferably eyes. First fill in your brows in a shade matching in a light dolly pink or soft peach shade, nothing too harsh. your natural colour. Eyeshadow is optional. If you do wish to apply it, opt for a subtle shade like a To make your make-up last longer and to absorb excess shine, soft cream or a light brown in matte rather than dust some Fuschia rice powder, €24, over the oily areas of shimmer. Leave the glitter for the weekend’s your face – usually your forehead, between your eyebrows and endeavours! A thin line of black eyeliner using your chin. If you’re using liquid foundation rather than mineral, our small angle liner brush, €11, will add adopt the same technique using pressed powder. subtle definition to your eyes, but if you’re time-strapped, don’t worry, it’s not a necessity. Lastly, do your lips: You don’t want a Run a nude coloured eye pencil lightly along high-maintenance look that will require regular toilet visits the lower lash line to counteract any redness to reapply; therefore a strong lip isn’t advisable. Opt in the eye and generally brighten the area. To instead for a lip tint or a colourful gloss, because you can slyly really open your eyes curl your lashes. It’s apply it at your desk with out needing a mirror. A handy product also worth investing in long-lasting mascara, to leave at your desk or in your drawer is Fuschia’s hydr one that won’t clump and fall off on your ating mist, €20, which when spritzed lightly on the face, refreshes cheeks during the day. and re-hydrates the skin without upsetting your make-up.

•

Guide i n s t i t u t e o f b e au t y

April Specials

Eyebrow Shaping e5 Lower Leg Wax e10 Hollywood/Brazilian e20 Shellac Paint e20 Refreshing Facial (1hr) e30 Spray Tan e15 Gift Vouchers & Wedding Packages Neck & Shoulder Massage (20mins) €20 Available Late Night Opening - Wed / Thurs / Fri 10 Dyer Street, Drogheda Ph: 041 98 39666

to Drogheda’s Best Health & Beauty Services Beauty Townhouse sPa Divine April Specials

Back, neck and shoulder massage with express facial all for €55. OPI 3 Week Manicure & OPI Pedicure €55 Add Dr. Fish for €10 17 Fair Street, Drogheda, Phone: 041 9800888 www.thetownhousespa.com find us on

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½ Leg, Bikini (reg) & Underarm Wax €35

Amazing AFTERCARE products The world’s first 3-HOUR TAN

Brazilian or Hollywood Wax €30

Vani-T

Organic Tan

Lycon 80% pain free wax

Full Body Tan €15 Make-up with Lashes €25 Termonfeckin Road, Drogheda, Co. Louth Email: fabulousbeautysalon@gmail.com

Tel:

041 9833188

sPecial oFFers

Spray Tan, Gelish Nails & Toe Paint €40 Due to demand - Gelish 3week Manicure €15 Hair & Make Up €25

Divine Beauty & Claire Donnelly Hair Contact Louise on 041 9871715 / 087 2882176

24/25 West Street, Drogheda

visit: www.divinebeautyclinic.com

Brow & Lash Tints available

Beauty & Skincare Clinic Eye trio €15

Facials - Pedicures - Holistics Manicures - Waxing - Massages

tel: (041) 987 2929

1st Floor, 34 Shop St, Drogheda

w w w . s t u d i o - w a x . c o m

April Specials

All waxing 50% off Callus peel & Pedicure only €20 3 week Manicure only €15

% 0873 571 570

Find us on

St. Peters Hill/Magdelene Street, Drogheda

(opposite the corner entrance to Laurence Shopping Centre)

paradisedrogheda@gmail.com

Beauty

ike most women I’ve always had an interest in antiaging skin treatments but without the surgery! So when Fabulous Hair & Beauty, situated on Termonfeckin Rd, asked me to try out Micro Needling I was more than curious. This treatment claims to be the ultimate solution for the non-surgical and non-ablative treatment of various skin conditions such as aging, scarring, skin tightening, hyper pigmented skin, rosacea or unwanted redness. So what is involved? Anaesthetic cream is applied to the skin (to desensitise the nerve endings and skin in preparation for needling), and a plastic film with holes open over the nostrils and mouth is placed all over the face to allow the anaesthetic to penetrate faster. Once the anaesthetic has done its job this film is removed. The eyes are covered by choice (in my case when I have my eyes closed, I personally love the luxury of dropping off!). u There are various delivery systems in Micro Needling, but Micro Needling via a roller system, which creates literally thousands of channels through the epidermis, appears to be most effective. Imagine a roller which is covered with 540 tiny needles, rolling all over your skin. The initial feeling of the needle is predictably prickly, however just like any sensation you begin to get used to the feeling and start enjoying it. I felt the skin tighten almost immediately, and my therapist was really thorough covering every inch of the skin. Your neck and eyes are optional, however I would recommend getting the tender areas done as it really is only seconds and the results are definitely worth it. After what feels like no

Want younger looking skin?

time (but really is about 15-20 minutes) your skin will naturally start to feel sensitive, but alert your therapist of any discomfort if necessary. u I can understand why the word ‘Needling’ might put clients off this treatment but it is genuinely not painful. However, I would advise you not to expect a luxurious facial – this is for those who love stimulating treatments that boosts the skin into rejuvenation! In fact, the treatment can revitalize up to 350 new skin cells to give the appearance of newer, fresher, younger, brighter and even skin. I personally felt lines around my eyes were diminished, open pores dilated and if I’m honest, my skin looked brand new. u To finish, a serum is applied to penetrate right down to the collagen layer in the skin for tightening and renewal. I felt an immediate tightening above my lip which I loved. It felt like I had Botox – and the effects looked like I had too! u Finally, a soothing and calming mask is applied all over and removed after 10-15 minutes. Next a defensive cream and barrier is applied to protect the skin. The initial appearance is redness almost everywhere, but that goes within an hour and your therapist will give homecare advice. u All in all the treatment lasts 90 minutes. Unexpectedly, it was actually very relaxing and I would definitely do it again. The cost per treatment is usually €150 at Fabulous Hair & Beauty but it is now on special offer at €120. This offer will still apply on your second and third treatment.

Fabulous Medical Micro Needling

The Ultimate Treatment for Skin Conditions such as aging, skin tightening and hyper pigmentation. The Gold Standard for acne scarring. Micro needling stimulates your own collagen & elastin, thickening the skin and resurfacing leaving the skin smoother, plumper & rejuvenated.

fREE Consultation

April/May Special €120

facial treatments

Professional & reliable Medical Microdermabrasion Facial €50 cutting, styling, colouring & treatments Deep cleansing facial removing congestion from skin Medical Agera Skin Peels €50 Ideal for acne skin, open pores or dry skin

‘Hairspray Extensions’, 100% Human Hair Germaine De Cappucini Hydra cure Facial (5 years Experience) inc Shoulder, Neck & Chest massage with revitalising foot treatment €55 Matrix Opti-Smooth & Sleek, Delivers maximum hydration to skin for Shiny, Smooth Hair

To avoid disappointment please book in advance!

Undo the effects of time with Micro Needling – a 90 minute antiaging skin treatment By Emma Woods,

Director @ Avant Garde Make-up Academy & Studio

Beauty & Skincare Clinic

hair free for Summer... 80% off iPulse Laser Hair Removal Ladies, be

Consultation & Patch test fREE Lip.......................€35 Lip & Chin .........€50 Brazilian ............€60 ½ Leg .................€60 Underarm .........€50

(Prices are per treatment 6-10 may be required)

Get your

feet ready for summer

Callous Peel....................................€25 inc file & Polish ............................€35 Removes all dead skin & Callous Shellac 2week Mani & Pedi .......€45 (new spring colours just arrived!)

Termonfeckin Road, Drogheda, Co. Louth

Tel: 041 9833188

Email: fabulousbeautysalon@gmail.com

E Drogheda

Out & about

McPhails 1 Amanda Monaghan and Roisin Everard 2 Emma Creel, Sandra Marron and Ciara Madden 3 Ann-Marie Brannigan and Ciara Flood

2 1

Scotch Hall

IWA Fashion Show 1 Jade Connor and Michelle Phelan 2 Jemma Fitzpatrick, Samatha Rankin and Laura Hopkins 3 Brian Keegan and Emma Monaghan 4 Michael Carter and Stuart Caffrey

St. Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Parade, Drogheda

1 Bridie and Lauren Murray with Grand Marshal Edward Kennedy 2 Isobel SanRoma and Mayor Kevin Callan 3 Debbie, Ciaran and Zach Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sullivan

E Drogheda

McHugh’s 1 Lucy and Jennifer Kirk 2 Emma McCormack and Sinéad Egan 3 Darron O’Neill, Ciara McEvoy, Grace Guildea and Oisin O’Brien

1 1

3 2 3 2

Abbey Gallery

Colour Works Exhibition 1 June and Nicole Bruton 2 Karen Larkin, TD Ged Nash and Petra Conway 3 Peter and Marie Reilly

5 4

JB’s Bar 1 Ailish Murray and Michelle Bulger 2 Trina and Nicola O’Brien with Sharon Murphy 3 Linda Fagan, AnnMarie Reilly and Sandra Fox 4 David Murray and Leona Collins 5 Aoife Flood, Tracy Geraghty and Tina Melia

E Drogheda

Combine daring patterns and vibrant prints for a real girly feel this spring/summer. By fashion stylist Caroline McElroy

Fashion

r u o l o C ! n o i s o l p x e 1

1. San Jose dress €138,

2. 3. 4. 5.

Monsoon, Scotch Hall Leaf print dress €66, Next, Scotch Hall Wedges €49, Next, Scotch Hall Headband €7, Next, Scotch Hall Halterneck dress €60.50, River Island, Scotch Hall White sheer shirt €24.99, zebra print trousers €39.99, shoes €29.99, New Look, Scotch Hall Toshka maxi dress €270, Monsoon, Scotch Hall

Caroline McElroy is the owner & director of Make Yourself Amazing Image Consultancy, visit www.mya.ie

SHOW THE LOVE

Just a Perfect Day It all starts here . . .

www.GlensideHotel.ie 041 9829185 18

E Drogheda

6 7

Weddings

OWEN FOX J E W E L L E R S 39 Shop Street, Drogheda

� 041 9838357

Billy McNally weds Kristina Vingilyte

The sun was shining and love was in the air on August 27th, 2011, when Lithuanian native Kristina Vingilyte and Skerries man Billy McNally tied the knot at Ardgillan Castle, Co. Dublin. The bride found her exquisite gown online and her friend Laura crafted a unique hairpiece to match the dress. Kristina opted to break tradition by not having any flowers or bridesmaids on the day! Meanwhile, the groom’s best friend Damien Mangan proudly acted as groomsman. The reception was held in the d Hotel, Drogheda, with 120 guests in attendance, including the couple’s son Hugo. Some guests flew in from places such as South Africa, the UK, Norway and the Netherlands especially to see their close friends on their wedding day. This non-traditional wedding was made even more unique as the guests were treated to a display of pole dancing later in the evening. For their honeymoon Kristina and Billy had the time of their lives in Malaysia and Australia for one month. Photos by Peter Rowan

Tomás Wilkinson weds Rebecca Finnegan

Rebecca Finnegan, from Collon, has her friend Allana to thank for meeting the love of her life. During a night out in McPhails pub, Drogheda in August 2005, Allana introduced Rebecca to her big cousin Tomás, their chaperone for the night! Six years later (almost to the week in fact!) the pair were married in the Spanish sunshine. The wedding took place in Hotel Monasterio Santa Eulalia in the Sierra Espuña, Murcia. ‘The location is a monastery which has been converted to a hotel, however the church remains in use for special occasions,’ says Rebecca. ‘We had the meal, bar and the DJ outside in the vineyard of the hotel, in the shadow of the spectacular church.’ More than 50 close family and friends travelled to Spain for the occasion. A special mention goes to Fr Sean Quinn of Louth Village for making it a very personal ceremony, and also to Tomás’s sister Kelly who sang in the church. The bridesmaids were Rebeccas’s friend Grace Kelly and cousin Nicola Carpenter, while the bestmen included Tomás’s friends James Brennan and Stewart Skelly. On their return from Spain, the newlyweds who live in Ardee, threw a wedding party for 200 extended family and friends in Star Bar, and later enjoyed a three-week honeymoon in Orlando Florida. Photos by Adivas Fotos

email your wedding photos to info@essentialdrogheda.com

E Drogheda

Weddings

Kevin Campbell weds Mary Flynn

Having first met 20 years previously in Termonfeckin, Drogheda couple Mary Flynn and Kevin Campbell finally tied the knot on November 26th, 2011. It was a beautiful, intimate day with the ceremony and reception both held in the d Hotel. Forty guests, consisting of immediate family and close friends, joined the couple for their special day, including the bridesmaid Michelle Butler (bride’s daughter), bestman Robert Butler (bride’s son) and groomsmen Ryan Campbell (the couple’s son). The day was made even better as the photographer Tony Campbell kindly drove them to visit Mary’s dad, Jim, in St Mary’s Hospital where he is a patient. They had photos taken and made Jim part of the celebrations as he wasn’t well enough to attend. The Bitter Lemons were a huge hit on the night playing the couple’s song, Candy by Paolo Nutini. The newlyweds honeymooned in Galway for four days where they had a ball. Photos by Tony Campbell

Guide to Drogheda’s

saying ‘I do’? ‘We do’ personalised... Invitations Place Names Mass Booklets RSVP Cards Menus Thank You Cards

Best Wedding Services

Mell Ind. Estate, Drogheda E: sales@angloprinters.ie W: www.angloprinters.ie Locall 1890

Sean Freeman Coulter and Black A Timeless Range of Q uality for Your Special Occasion Menswear Accessories Carriage

In House Promotions Now On

info@seanfreeman.ie www.seanfreeman.ie Sean Freeman 45, John Street, Drogheda Tel: 041 9837050

E Drogheda

Bakery 041 9804239

Wedding Cakes our Speciality & Cakes for all occasions Collon Road, Tullyallen, Drogheda, Co. Louth

Mary Coulter 086 3388893 Bernadette Black 086 3738562

624 624

Boyne Jewellers Specialists in fitted wedding bands. Large range of bridaL gifts avaiLabLe in store Scotch hall Shopping centre, DrogheDa tel: 041 9842796

Events

Mock Wedding

t’s not every day you attend the wedding of a couple you’ve never met before, but that’s exactly what happened at the d Hotel recently. The hotel’s mock wedding event took place on Friday, March 23rd with more than 100 guests experiencing a wedding at the hotel for themselves. On arrival, guests enjoyed canapés and a drinks reception, followed by a delicious four-course meal. The bride and groom (Mr and Mrs Ball and Chain) were played by Tara Egan Langley and Aidan Crowe of Castaway Irish Actors Agency. Local Drogheda residents Jordana Black played the part of the bridesmaid and Daren Monks was the groomsman. Comedian Alan Short provided the laughs as Fr Feely, Mayor of Drogheda Kevin Callan and his fiancée Ruth were a rather young mother and father of the groom, while the bride’s parents were played by Drogheda Chamber of Commerce President Padraic Kierans and his wife Jean. After dinner entertainment was provided by Harlequin, a six piece band, and Alan Geraghty DJ. Sales and Marketing Manager with the d Hotel, Nicola Cassidy, said: ‘It was a

at the d Hotel

2 4

The People:

1 Sam Harmon, Alan Callaghan and Daria Caffrey 2 Nikita Coulter, Ann Hodgers and Mary Coulter 3 Padraic and Jean Kierans with the ‘bride and groom’ Tara Egan Langley and Aidan Crowe 4 Pat and Anne Gough 5 The newlyweds

fantastic night and everyone was really impressed with the whole evening. We would like to thank all our suppliers who sponsored the evening and all the guests who made a special effort to come and take part.’

Wedding Fair at

An Grianán

Join us at Louth’s Premier Wedding Fair in An Grianán, Termonfeckin

Date: Sunday 22nd April 2012 Time: 2pm – 6pm

• Danucci Artisan Chocolates will sponsor free chocolate favours for the first wedding booked on the day • Discount available for all weddings booked on the day • Free glass of champagne on arrival • Perfect location for Civil Ceremonies and Civil Partnerships

Termonfeckin, Co. Louth • Tel 041 9822119 • www.an-grianan.ie E Drogheda

If looks could thrill

Drive

By Stephen Watson, of

Opel Astra GTC

Pricing: €22,995 - €30,495 Model driven: Opel Astra GTC 2.0 CDTi 165 Rivals:VW Scirocco, Renault Mégane Coupé

his is probably one of the most hotly anticipated coupés to hit Irish shores in recent months, and I’m sure at least one of you has driven or owned its predecessor. The previous model was a huge success here, mainly due to its sporty looks and general affordability. This new model should fair no different. It’s got even better looking, and spec for spec it marginally undercuts its main competitors in the price war. We tested the range topping 2.0 diesel, which was a hoot to drive and incredibly efficient. Although looks won’t top the list of required car characteristics for everyone, it’s hard to deny this is one fine looking car. You may as well judge this book by its cover because driving it is just as good as its looks are. Sure enough we were driving the 2.0 diesel, but it’s still quite the smile generator and could arguably convert even the most stubborn of petrol

fans. It has the best of both worlds in terms of being notably quick yet extremely frugal. The ride is impressively comfortable given its mid-level performance, and the grip levels are equally reflected. Yes, it’s the most expensive variant in the range, but even the smaller engine variants (which start at just shy of €23,000) come with ample power, and naturally the same gorgeous looks, not to mention their even better fuel economy. The GTC comes in two trim levels. Sport is the entry level and comes with standard equipment, more commonly found on the options list of other cars in this segment, such as 18-inch alloys, air conditioning and cruise control. If your budget allows, SRI spec brings even more superb seats and rear tinted windows among other useful bells and whistles. So if you’re on the market for a new coupé or 3 door hatch, don’t dismiss this real eye catcher.

MyFirstWheels.ie is a concise new online information source aimed at making life easier for those who wish to get driving. It supplies everything you need to get on the road, in the quickest and safest way possible. For Young Drivers, By Young Drivers

tech

Top 5

Looking for class without the perceived high costs? Here are five used gems under five years old for less than €10,000 2007 BMW 3 Series Saloon Tried and tested, this since replaced model of the award winning 3 series is as affordable as ever, with early 2007 models now available for just a quarter of their cost when new!

2007 Alfa Romeo 159 Italian looks with two great diesel options, the 159 is a gorgeous alternative to some blandly styled saloons to which it is pitted against.

2007 Audi A3 Having the best interior in its segment and being home to some frugal yet brisk engines are just two of the many reasons why the baby Audi is a great used buy.

2007 Mazda MX-5

No need for an intro other than that the revised MX-5 is the definition of top down fun. The hard top option makes it a great all rounder and cheaper to run than you may think.

2007 Lexus IS220D Classy looks, a reliable diesel unit, and a great cabin make this a nice alternative to some of the low spec German cars in the same segment. The Lexus badge is still as subtle and classy as ever.

gadgetconnect By Mark Lye

Origami Power Folding Stroller We could say, it’s about time or perhaps, is this

really necessary? We’ll let you be the judge. Mums and dads, introducing the world’s first power-folding stroller. At the touch of a button, it folds itself. And no, don’t panic, it cannot fold itself with a baby inside, a sensor in the seat is included to prevent any such scenario. The aluminumframed stroller’s lithium-polymer battery pack can be charged from a wall outlet, although a built-in wheel-mounted generator will reportedly keep it fully charged, too. Should that battery still manage to be dead when folding or unfolding is required, parents can stoop to perform the process manually. The Origami also features a handlebar-mounted LCD screen displaying data such as battery level, trip meter, speedometer and temperature. And pricing is (don’t hold us to this) E800-900. More information is available at Amazon.com.

E Drogheda

Philips TwinPlay DualScreen In-Car Display

The Philips TwinPlay Dual Screen In-Car Display is the only incar entertainment system that allows you to share videos, music and photos from your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. Access your full iTunes library or stream movies, videos and music directly from YouTube. We’re still awaiting the release of this product scheduled for this month, but apparently in-car entertainment has never been easier! According to Philips, you can easily mount the system’s 7” dual widescreen LCD panels to the back of the front headrests. Then, plug in an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch via a power/video cable to instantly create an effortless in-car entertainment experience. Keep your eyes peeled for information on local availability upon release.

Spring clean

INteriors

your Kitchen

Follow Elaine Keogh’s budget friendly tips to help freshen up the most used room in the home

McCormac’s at Greene’s

The Mall, North Quay, Drogheda. Call in & vie foors, b w our extensive range of ca rpets & lino (all on rolls), wooden eds and b edroom furnitu re, sofas, recliners & much much more

Accessories – why not change your tea towels to more vibrant, colourful ones, and display a basket of lemons/limes to add a zingy aroma to the room. Pop some daffodils in a vase and place it on your window sill or counter top. Lemon scented candles will also Aggi tea towel e5.07, IKEA leave a lovely spring aroma in your kitchen.

2 Lightshade e33, Next, Scotch Hall

Lighting – this is one of the most underestimated of all decorating objects but makes a huge impact glass lamp e65, NEXT, on space. This is especially apparent in the kitchen. Scotch Hall Add a few colourful contemporary pendant lights or shades, or some track lighting in place of old fittings. Also under cabinet lighting can dramatically change the look and mood of the kitchen, it doesn’t cost a lot and very easy to install.

Splash back – create the wow factor by replacing your old splash back with a contemporary glass alternative with digital image. You can use any digital image you like as long as the resolution is high enough and the companies that produce this have a library of images to choose from (please contact me for further information).

We offer expert fitting and do talk to us if you need old furniture removed or old carpets lifted

We offer the complete package! Call us on 041 98 04200

4 3pc storage tins e16, Next, Scotch Hall

Storage – simple and streamlined is the look you want to achieve, so get rid of some of the clutter on countertops and elsewhere to give your kitchen a boost.

Plants and herbs – live plants add colour, texture and life to an otherwise dull looking space. Fresh herbs in a kitchen add not only visual appeal, but a culinary bonus as well.

Placemats and centrepieces – bold and interesting placemats left on the kitchen table brings colour Placemats e1.73, coasters e1.82, IKEA to a dull room, as will an attractive centre piece. Preferably something that stands out but that won’t become a huge dust collector, and make sure it can be easily removed.

Great recipes deserve great ingredients For the very best in paint, with recipes packed full of naturally occurring pigments and natural ingredients, look no further. From Cook’s Blue to Dead Salmon – there’s something to suit the most discerning palate.

Paint – like in any other room in your home you can achieve the most dramatic changes with minimal financial expenditure with some new paint. Change your wall colour to something new, fresh and neutral. I guarantee your kitchen will immediately take on a whole new life. Visit Murtaghs of Drogheda for all new colours for spring 2012.

From a colour consultation to an interior fit out, Elaine offers an array of services from residential to commercial interiors, to book a consultation and get expert advice call her on 087-9938767 or email ekeogh50@gmail.com

Stockist Murtaghs of Drogheda Fairgreen Drogheda Co. Louth ELAINE KEOGH

www.farrow-ball.com

Interior Architecture & Designs

T: 087 9938767 E: ekeogh50@gmail.com

E Drogheda

Guide

to Drogheda’s Best Restaurants To advertise here email ads@essentialdrogheda.com or call

John on 085-1004001

Monasterboice Inn Located just off the M1, Monasterboice Tel: 041 9837383 Open 7 days Home-made, Fresh, Locally Sourced Food

Special Menu e25 pp • Homemade Vegetable Soup • Tasty Chicken Wings in Buffalo Sauce • Mandarin Orange & Melon Cocktail • • • •

topatrons all our

Succulent Chicken Breast with smokey bacon & mushroom sauce Baked Rainbow Troutrout with herb stuffing & toasted almonds Prime Minute 8oz Steak with pepper sauce, sauteed onions & mushrooms Vegetarian Lasagne served with tossed salad

Scholars Townhouse Hotel

Modern Irish cuisine with a classic French twist

A lA CArTE main courses from e14.95 Available Every Day from 6pm - 9.30pm

EArly

BirD

2 CourSES €19.95 3 CourSES €23.95 4.30pm-6.30pm Mon – Sat

SunDAyS - 3 course menu e25 Available all day Tel: 041 9835410 www.scholarshotel.com

find us on

Double A (4 Course Meal) Choice of: 2 Appetizers, 1 Soup, 1 Main Course & Tea or Coffee Sun-Thurs e17.50 Fri-Sat e19.50 Kiddies Meal e9 (Main Course & a glass of Soft Drink)

A La Carte Menu Available

• Freshly Brewed Tea or Coffee

Available Monday-Sunday 4.30-9pm & Sat 4.30-10pm

Chinese Restaurant

Bettystown

Mon-Sat 5pm-12am Sun 1.30pm-12am

Bookings still available for

Easter Sunday

Design your own pizza & pasta

Know your

rights Dermot Monahan of Monahan & Co Solicitors,

answers your legal queries... Monahan & Co solicitors

E Drogheda

• New A-la-carte Menu • French classic specials every Friday night The Waterfront, Upper Mell, Drogheda Tel: 041-9838804

Ristorante ~ Pizzeria M-Sat 5-Late, Closed Tue, Sun 5-Late Mell, Drogheda 041-9845444 / 45381

Now taking bookings for Communion & Confirmation Lunches Early Bird Menu �23.95 3 course meal & free glass of wine

Tel:

041 988 6804 041 988 6693

Takeaway & Delivery

Quality Authentic Food - Locally Sourced New Menu Items - Good Value

forge gallery restaurant

Main St. Dunleer Co.Louth Tel: 041-6861366 find us on

• Early Bird Times Wed – Fri 6-9pm, Sat 6-7pm, Sun 5-7pm • Full a la carte menu • Take away available Wed – Sun • Mid-Week €10 Menu Wed/Thurs/Fri 6-7pm

• Function Room Available

Kids Menu �7.50

(All Dishes Served with Fresh Veg & Potato of Your Choice)

• Apple Tart & Custard • Fresh Fruit Pavlova & Cream • Profiteroles

The Rendezvous

Set Dinner 2 Courses e23.95 3 Courses e29.95 Church Street, Collon, County Louth. Tel: 041-9826272 E-mail: info@forgegallery.ie www.forgegallery.ie Opening hours: wed-sat 6-9.30

Excellence in Fine Dining and Original Artwork

Dear Dermot,

I recently gave birth to my son in hospital about eight months ago. He was born with Erbs Palsy following an extremely difficult birth. I believe that my child is now left with a permanent disability because of the way he was delivered when I was in hospital. He is going to require special assistance for his entire life as a result of this. Is the hospital to blame for what happened? Kay

Dear Kay, I am very sorry to hear about your son’s condition. The time following birth should be an enjoyable one. I would not be in a position to say, at this stage, if the hospital is to blame for your son’s medical condition. Erbs Palsy, which is brought about by nerve injury to the neck of a baby, often occurs when the shoulder’s of the baby get stuck during delivery. If there was a failure on behalf of the hospital to accurately assess whether the baby could be delivered safely, you may have an action for medical negligence on behalf of your son. Often times, babies with your son’s condition are larger than average at birth and, if he was, it would be important for the hospital to consider if your child was at risk of this occurring prior to the birth and preparing for the birth by way of assisted delivery or possibly a caesarean section. If the hospital failed in its duty of care to you, you could have an action for medical negligence. I would suggest you make contact with your family solicitor. Need legal advice? Email your query to info@essentialdrogheda.com

N BO appétit! Food

For quality Irish cuisine in a uniquely French atmosphere, The Rendezvous Bar & Restaurant, Mell ticks all the boxes. Head chef Graham Clarke shares his most-wanted recipes

aving grown up in the restaurant trade in Dunkirk, northern France, it was inevitable that Gaetan Leriche would follow the same career path as his parents. He studied for five years at catering college where his passion for food and beverage led to various jobs in Paris, Normandy and the South of France. ‘I had started as bar tender in Disneyland Paris and after three years had worked my way up to restaurant manager,’ says Gaetan. Almost three years ago, Gaetan’s Irish journey began – in Dorgheda’s Eastern Seaboard in fact! However, when an opportunity to start his own restaurant in the former Harry’s Bar & Grill – Gaetan jumped a t the chance and Rendezvous Bar & Restaurant was born. ‘My ideas have always been simple: proper food for good value, and my experience has taught me that love, passion and knowledge were enough to provide quality food and build on a good reputation.’ Gaetan is now confident that together with head chef Graham Clarke (formerly of Scholars Townhouse Hotel) The Rendezvous will become one of the best eateries in town. For bookings, telephone 041-9838804.

Chocolate & Orange Fondant What you need: 15 eggs 1kg caster sugar ¾ kg butter (melted)

375g plain flour ¾ kg dark chocolate (melted) 4oz orange chocolate, (broken into pieces )

Slow-cooked Pork Belly stuffed with Black Pudding, Apricots and Fresh Herbs served with a Minted Pea Puree Serves 8

What you need:

1oz fresh herbs 1 clove of garlic, crushed 8oz apricots, dried out

1kg of pork belly, skin off 8oz black pudding

What to do: 1. Place the pork skin side down on a baking tray. 2. Mix the black pudding, fresh herbs and garlic to a paste and spread evenly over the pork belly. 3. Scatter the apricots over the black pudding mix before rolling the pork belly and tying it with strings. Season with salt and black pepper. 4. Wrap it in tin foil and braise slowly for four hours at 160C. When cooked let it rest for six hours.

For the Mint Pea Puree: 1. Place one pint of boiling water into a saucepan, add 8oz of fresh or frozen peas, a chicken stock cube, salt and five sprigs of mint. Bring to the boil. Turn to a simmer and cook until the peas are tender, about five minutes. 2. Drain the peas and using a stick blender, purée the peas and mint to create a smooth paste. If you don’t have a stick blender use a food processor, or simply mash with a fork. If you want a very fine purée, push the mixture through a fine sieve before serving with the pork and a selection of seasonal vegetables

sageandstone.com ideas for cooking | baking | giving | | Living

Now Serving Breakfast

Stitch n’ Bitch Class every Wed 10am – 12pm €5 per class

What to do: 1. In a bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until thick and fluffy. 2. Pour the melted chocolate into the egg mixture in thirds, beating well between each addition, until all the chocolate is added and the mixture is completely combined to a loose cake batter. 3. Gently fold the flour into chocolate fondant mixture with a wooden spoon. 4. Tip the fondant batter into a jug, then evenly divide between the moulds, filling a quarter of the way only. Add some orange chocolate to each mould before spooning in some more fondant mix (the mould should be threequarters full). 5. Heat oven to 200C, gas 6. Place the fondants on a baking tray, then cook for 8-10 minutes until the tops have formed a crust and they are starting to come away from the sides of their moulds. Remove from the oven, then leave to sit for one minute before turning out. Serve with ice-cream of your choice.

Coffee Shop & Children’s Play Area

Opening hours 9am -5pm Monday - Saturday (closed Sundays) Newlanes (Julianstown Road), Duleek, Co. Meath Tel. 041 9814362

E Drogheda

entertainment

Off the Shelf The Dead Summer by

Ash Mistry and the Savage Fortress

Children’s

Fiction

Helen Moorhousee Martha Armstrong is starting over after a bitter divorce. She moves to the Norfolk countryside with her baby daughter and there she hopes to find peace and enough time to write the children’s book which has been in her head for years. Instead Martha finds a mystery and a chilling ghostly presence. New to the area Martha is not familiar with the strange rumours about the house and the two sisters who once lived there. Helen Moorhouse’s first novel is a spine-tingling and haunting story which will entrance readers. The book romps along at breakneck speed for almost 350 pages and the pace never lets up throughout. This is a book which I would recommend to anyone who enjoys gothic, ghostly and atmospheric stories. It has a similar feel to that of The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold, and The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters. (Poolbeg €9.99)

a collaboration between bestselling author Melissa Kevin. This is the first outing for Reilly Steel, a forensic investigator trained in Quantico but now relocated to Dublin to lend her expertise to the Irish crime lab, and to watch over her father who has returned to his homeland but is slowing killing himself with drink. Reilly is a fantastic creation; focused and calculating when she needs to be but without appearing cold. Reilly is plagued by memories of a family tragedy and she finds redemption in her duty and attention to detail. Also on hand to help Reilly with investigating a brutal killer is Dublin detective Chris Delaney, a workaholic with personal troubles of his own. The plot is tightly woven and there is not a word out of place as the authors take readers on a thrill ride through the streets of Dublin and the mind of a serial killer. (Simon & Schuster €8.99)

Crime

Latest reads by Lisa Redmond Sponsored by

novel written as Taboo by Casey Hill Taboo is a thrilling crime Hill and her husband

by Sarwat Chadda This is a fantastic action-packed read for teens. If you have enjoyed Percy Jackson, Darren Shan and Skulduggery Pleasant then this book is for you. Sarwat Chadda’s new book is steeped in Indian legend with a hero torn between the high tech London of his everyday life and the ancient land of snake charmers, gurus and demon legends of his ancestors. Ash is an unlikely hero; plump, nerdy and a little bit lazy but when his endangered he has to step up and learn how to family are s an ancient Indian artefact he realises discover he when and fight that he his stronger then he thought. I really enjoyed this and hopefully it will be the first in a series. It’s bound to excite the interest of readers aged 10+. I am a huge fan of mythology and I knew nothing about Indian mythology before I picked this up so it’s been a great introduction. (Harper Collins €8.99)

creative print & design to make you stand out! Mell Industrial Estate, Drogheda, County Louth T: 041 983 5000 F: 041 983 5485 E: sales@angloprinters.ie W: www.angloprinters.ie tw: @angloprinters

Locall 1890 624 624

bands towatch T

By Eoghan Darcy

his group of talented in 2FM ad campaigns – in the Purple Room in November girls might be 2011. The girls’ music is a catchy blend of pop with a punch, PLANS are underway for vertically challenged by serious soul and rock with a lot of roll. They’re a small band year’s Beat on the Boyne name but the sky is the with a big sound, as they say themselves. Their sets include this hich takes place over limit when it comes to a mixture of originals and covers by some of their favourite Festival w Holiday Weekend artists including Katy Perry, The Script, Pink, Coldplay and the June Bank their musical potential. Any musicians 4th. 2ndFive Foot Nothin’ formed Kings of Leon. All of their songs are currently written by from the at Scotch ng playi in d in 2009 when friends Claire Claire but each of the girls are committed to exploring their intereste Beat on re’s Cent ping Shop Regan (Lead Vocals and musical talents, with all of them going on to study music in Hall should ert Conc Free e Boyn the Piano), Kim Madden (Ac Maynooth and begin to collaborate with the song writing. Guitar and Vocals) and They have already recorded their first song ‘Learn How To email beatontheboyne@gmail. Brona Howard (Bass) who had Fly’ and it’s available on iTunes and you can check out their com for further details. been playing together for a while, videos on their YouTube Channel ABeSee1ToTree. were joined by Emma Donnelly (El For upcoming gigs please By EmmaJane Guitar) and Aoife Mc Donagh for The Coca Cola School check out their Curran Facebook Stars Competition in The TLT. heir name is as original as their music. Super Turbo The girls – who are all music students in Our Lady’s page. Ninja Club ‘play music and scream, and have done College, Greenhills – played their first gig to an audience of for a few full moons’ and it’s clear to see this band is as unique as they come. 900 who soon were rocking along to the catchy sound of their The band is a pick and mix of fine Drogheda talent, and are influenced by local original songs, beautifully crafted by Claire. Five Foot bands ‘The Albaquirky Turkeys’, ‘Geriko’ and ‘The Keds’. Super Turbo Ninja Club is Nothin’ wowed both audience and judges in the School Drogheda’s answer to the Polyphonic Spree (Dallas band), but as a more scaled down version, Stars Competition and in December 2010 walked away with the same uplifting spirit. You can’t help but feel happy after listening to them perform. The with ‘The Best Original Act’ accolade. Not bad for a few months hard work. This initial experience has given band consists of Conall Bailey, Dave Bailey, Liz Lodge, Kev Sheridan and Bren Leech, but this them the enthusiasm and determination to return can turn into a 12-piece when they bring some alternative indie rock into the mix. 2011 saw lead singer Conall Bailey release his debut album ‘Finding Holes’ with the again to pack out The TLT on their own in the Ninjas contributing greatly to its success.In collaboration with other future before moving on to conquer Slane and the artists, they are now putting finishing touches to his second album. O2 Arena! In the meantime, they have begun their Fun to watch and fun to listen to, the Ninjas are one of the most musical journey and have already played in many of original acts on Drogheda’s music scene. Super Turbo Ninja Club Drogheda’s great live music venues. The highlight will support Rarely Seen Above Ground (R.S.A.G.) on Sat, April so far has been backing up hugely popular Irish 28th, McHugh’s, 9pm. Tickets €10, www.ticketmaster.ie band Bipolar Empire – whose music has featured

a j n i

r e p u S e r a y l l a e sr T

• Health Foods • Health Supplements • Natural Cosmetics • Naturopathic Clinic 40 Laurence St, Drogheda

Thursdays The d hotel,

scotch hall, drogheda

salsa

Beginners 8pm - 9pm Improvers 9pm - 10pm

Private Classes on request Contact Frank Phone: 087 061 3590 Web: www.salsasensation.ie salsa.sensation@hotmail.com For other venue inFormation log on to www.salsasensation.ie

Events

Ready, steady,

run!

With the Boyne 10k getting closer, Kelly Kierans uses the occasion to raise funds for Drogheda’s new Boomerang Youth Café

ocal MC and Events Organiser Kelly Kierans is no stranger to fundraising for charities, having trekked Vietnam and Brazil for Barretstown – and this May 6th will see her take part in the Boyne 10k on behalf of Boomerang Youth Café. Wearing her ‘Local Heroes’ hat, Kelly, along with comedian Joe Rooney and Pro-Golfer Gary Murphy agreed to come on board as ambassadors to promote the run and encourage people to raise much-needed funds and get fit in the process. ‘I said yes straight away when asked and then thought later, “what have I done now?”’ laughs Kelly. ‘However, the training has re-ignited that high you get after completing a session.’ While Kelly admits she will be walking and jogging the route, she insists she has only one ambition for the 10k. ‘My primary aim is to not come last and look fabulous crossing the finish line!’ she jokes. Boomerang Youth Café is Kelly’s nominated charity, which, through the ‘Local Heroes’ team, she aims to assist with fundraising to get this much-needed facility for young people opened this summer. Situated in the Old Carnegie Library, Fair Street, Boomerang will provide a welcoming, casual drop-in environment with hugely beneficial information and training services. ‘Being young today can be tough enough, that’s why it is so important to have a resourceful and safe place you can go to get advice, to chill out and have headspace,’ Kelly explains. ‘I would have loved to have had a place like this to hang out as a teen. It will be like having our very own Byker Grove, for those who can remember!’ she laughs. To register and get training tips on how to take part you can simply log on to www.boyne10k.ie. It is a simple and effective way to get sponsorship for your local charity or community group and fees raised from your registration will go to the Tania McCabe foundation and our local athletic clubs. Following the Boyne 10k, fundraising will begin for a charity Skydive for Boomerang Youth Café. For those of you up to the challenge, Kelly invites you to get in contact by dropping into the Local Heroes Hub, 106 West Street or call Kelly Kierans prepares 041-9833039. for the 10k challenge

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EVENTS

Dates for

Thurs 29th March

Daly’s, Donore: Traditional Irish music sessions O’Neill’s, Duleek: Traditional Irish music sessions Droichead Arts Centre: Dancing at Lughnasa. €12, 8pm d Hotel: Salsa Classes. Beginners 8pm-9pm, Improvers McPhails: The Enemies 9pm-10pm. Classes €10, contact Frank on 087-0613590 d Hotel: Salsa Classes. Beginners 8pm-9pm, Improvers 9pm-10pm. Classes €10, contact Frank on Good Friday 087-0613590 d Hotel: Live music with Roy Taylor Boyne Valley Hotel: Slimming World Classes, 9.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm Daly’s, Donore: Traditional Irish music sessions Droichead Arts Centre: Family film Arriety, €5, 2pm O’Neill’s, Duleek: Traditional Irish music sessions The Thatch Bar: D2GS Drogheda Photographic Club, Millmount: Image Market Bar: Music by Level Two evaluation night. Members to bring a maximum 2 d Hotel: Live music with 2morrow’s Party images for evaluation by club members, entries for McPhails: Fader monochrome competitions Barroco Bar: Resident DJ Keith. Late bar with Boyles of Slane: 2UI Bestow presents the Purple concessions to Earth Nightclub Sessions ft Ana Gog, Eric McGrath, Allie Bradly Bru Bar & Bistro: Resident DJ Dave Salthouse: Live music The Pheasant: Live music with Gerry & Paul TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Rathkenny Revels. The Purple Room: Daft As Punk Tickets €15, 8pm Festival of Fires Festival, Slane: Kicks off with Family Droichead Arts Centre: Dancing at Lughnasa. €12, 8pm Easter Egg Hunt, 2-5pm, €5 per family. At 7.30pm Westcourt Hotel: Louth People of the Year Awards assemble at Slane NS to join the procession towards McPhails: Huey & the Hobgoblins the Hill of Slane for spectacular celebration with flame City North Hotel: A night with John Giles & presenter & light themes, festoons, sky lanterns and live music Darragh Maloney. Finger food, raffle & entertainment. Tickets €15, proceeds to new Stamullen Football Club Easter Sunday The Pheasant: Live music with D2GS The Thatch: Elvis Night Salthouse: Live music d Hotel: Live music with Roy Taylor The Coast Tavern, Laytown: Traditional Irish music Market Bar: Music by The Biz d Hotel: Live music McPhails: The Judge Brothers Boyles of Slane: The Judge Brothers The Purple Room: Subculture is back. Residents Craig C & Col McGrane are joined by guests Andrew K & Lay Low Leee for a mix of everything from Droichead Arts Centre: Herbert Cello Quartet. €15, 8pm classic Hip-Hop, Breaks, House, Funk & Drum Base Barlow House: How to Produce a Podcast. €20, 12pm Boyne Valley Hotel: Drogheda Easter Craft & Food Fair McPhails: Point Blank Festival of Fires Festival, Slane: Family Fun Day d Hotel: Live music Out, 12noon-7pm. The gardens of old Parochial The Thatch: Live music with Mystic House will come alive with Samba music workshop, The Market Bar: Music by Top 4 face painting, clowns, hair braiding, art workshop, Barroco Bar: Resident DJ Keith, late bar with kiddies disco and much more. €10 per family concessions to Earth Nightclub Bru Bar & Bistro: Resident DJ Dave Easter Monday Salthouse: Live music McPhails: Monday Club The Pheasant: Live music with Upside Down The Punt: Traditional Irish music sessions Sage & Stone, Duleek: Farmers Market, 11am-4pm The Market Bar: Monday Bank Holiday Madness Fairyhouse: One day cookery workshop ‘Easy The Thatch: Rapscallion Entertaining’, 9:30am-2:30pm, tickets €95 Boyne Valley Hotel: Drogheda Easter Craft & Food Fair. Boyles of Slane: Rewind Highlanes Gallery: Experiments in Mood & Meaning Foleys Bar: Traditional Music Night. Adm is free poetry event. Adventures in the Word Jungle at 3pm, with poets Nuala Leonard, Brian Quinn & Anne Tannam River House: Traditional Irish music sessions The Thatch: Bingo, 9pm Droichead Arts Centre: Film Club - Bal (Honey), McPhails: Rubix tickets €8, 8pm The Market Bar: Live music by Shiftrate The TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Blood Brothers, tickets €44, 7:30pm

Fri 6th April

Sat 7th April

Fri 30th March

Sun 8th April

Sat 31st March

Mon 9th April

Tues 10th April

Sun 1st April

Mon 2nd April

McPhails: Monday Club Market Bar: Monday Club The Punt: Traditional Irish music sessions

Wed 11th April

Boyle’s of Slane: Traditional Irish music sessions McPhails: Open Mic Night The TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Blood Brothers, tickets €44, 7:30pm Laurence Town Centre: Mumstown.ie parent & Scholars Hotel: The Des Smyth Drogheda Youth toddler/baby coffee morning, 10am Foundation Coffee Morning, 11am-2pm. All proceeds Droichead Arts Centre: Film Club - Cell 211, €8, 8pm to DSDYF Foleys Bar: Traditional Music Night. Adm is free The Thatch: Bingo, 9pm River House: Traditional Irish music sessions McPhails: The Enemies Abbey Gallery, Dominic Street: Boann Craft Droichead Arts Centre: Vladimir’s Classical Twist, Exhibition Opening Night, 7.30pm-9.30pm tickets €15, 8:30pm Boyne Valley Hotel: Slimming World Classes, 9.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Alzheimer’s Variety Daly’s, Donore: Traditional Irish music sessions Show, tickets €15, 8pm O’Neill’s, Duleek: Traditional Irish music sessions Boyle’s of Slane: Traditional Irish music sessions Oldbridge: Judging of Monochrome competitions McPhails: No Sum of Mine The TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Blood Brothers, Oldbridge: Drogheda Photographic Club, Dianne tickets €44, 7:30pm Owens FRPS from Wales. Final Mono comp entries d Hotel: Salsa Classes. Beginners 8pm-9pm, Improvers Abbey Gallery, Dominic Street: Boann Craft Exhibition. 9pm-10pm. Classes €10, contact Frank on 087-0613590 Mon to Sat 10am - 5pm, runs until April 30th

Tues 3rd April

Thurs 12th April

Wednesday 4th April

Thurs 5th April

McPhails: The Enemies Boyne Valley Hotel: Slimming World Classes, 9.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm

Are You In It?

Fri 13th April

Droichead Arts Centre: The Baglady, €14, 8:30pm McPhails: Huey & The Hobgoblins The Pheasant: Live music with The Bizz Salthouse: Live music

email your event details to info@essentialdrogheda.com

r your diary The Coast Tavern, Laytown: Traditional Irish music d Hotel: Live music Roy Taylor The TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Blood Brothers, tickets €44, 8pm

Sat 14th April

The Thatch Bar: Live music with Side by Side Market Bar: Music by Timbuck Two d Hotel: Live music with Declan Seery McPhails: White Water Barroco Bar: Resident DJ Keith. Late bar with concessions to Earth Nightclub Bru Bar & Bistro: Resident DJ Dave Salthouse: Live music The Pheasant: Live music with Ged McMahon Droichead Arts Centre: La Traviata – Verdi, tickets €24, 6pm The TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Blood Brothers, tickets €44, 8pm The Purple Room: The Vinyl Soundsystem crew host Trance Illusions with Mark Young headlining Highlanes Gallery: A continuation of the Experiments in Mood and Meaning poetry event. Poetry as story at 3pm, in Storylands of Hard Life Experience, featuring Patrick Dillon, Terry McHugh and Karl Parkinson.

Sun 15th April

The Thatch Bar: Take your Pick with Groggy Mac McPhails: Orion The Market Bar: Music by Double Trouble with Kevin & Fiona

Mon 16th March

McPhails: Monday Club The Punt: Traditional Irish music sessions The Market Bar: Monday Club

Tues 17th April

Foleys Bar: Traditional Music Night. Adm is free River House: Traditional Irish music sessions The Thatch: Bingo, 9pm Droichead Arts Centre: Silver Screen – Kind Hearts and Coronets, tickets €3, 2pm; Film Club – Wild Card Film, tickets €8, 8pm

Wed 18th April

Fairyhouse: One day cookery workshop, ‘Taste of Thailand’, 9:30am- 2:30pm, tickets €95 The Purple Room: Savior Night Club continues with guests Bad Habit (Friction,Digitally Infected), Emma Dilemma (Traffic, Joy Festival) + more St Patrick’s Church Church of Ireland, Slane: St Peter’s Male Voice Choir with Sarah Bass (soprano), Jim Stewart & Jack Morrissey (baritones) & Brian McIvor (keyboards). Tickets €20, available from The Hub in the village

EVENT GUIDE Alzheimer’s Variety Show 4th April 8pm, Tickets €15

Sun 22nd April

McPhails: The Profile An Grianan: Wedding Fair, 2pm-6pm The Market Bar: Music by Just Us Barroco: Live music by Rapscallion

Blood Brothers 10th - 14th April

Mon 23rd April

7.30pm, Tickets €45

McPhails: Monday Club The Punt: Traditional Irish music sessions The Market Bar: Monday Club

Tues 24th April

Jazz Night With David Leddy

Foleys Bar: Traditional Music Night. Adm is free River House: Traditional Irish music sessions The Thatch: Bingo, 9pm Droichead Arts Centre: Film Club – Incendies, Tickets €8, 8pm

Wed 25th April

Boyle’s of Slane: Traditional Irish music sessions McPhails: Open Mic Night Droichead Arts Centre: Traditional Singing Session, free admission, 9.30pm; The Authors Tea Party, free admission, 7.30pm

28th April 8pm, Tickets €25

Gift Grub Live 2

as part of droichead arts festival

4th & 5th May 8pm, Tickets €38.70

Thurs 26th April

McPhails: The Enemies Boyne Valley Hotel: Slimming World Classes, 9.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm Daly’s, Donore: Traditional Irish music sessions O’Neill’s, Duleek: Traditional Irish music sessions An Grianan: One day course in photography, painting with beeswax and gardening, €55pp, booking essential dHotel: Salsa classes. Beginners 8pm-9pm, Improvers 9pm-10pm. Classes €10, contact Frank on 087-0613590

The Three Tenors, 12th May 8pm, Tickets €25/28 Dickie rock & special guest

19th May 8pm, Tickets €24

Fri 27th April

Droichead Arts Centre: That’s About the Size of It, Boyle’s of Slane: Traditional Irish music sessions Boyne Valley Hotel: Drogheda Grow It Yourself (GIY) Tickets €12, 8.30pm meeting @ 7.30pm. Come along - we’d love to see you! McPhails: Wizard of Sonic The Pheasant: Live music with Nash Salthouse: Live music The Coast Tavern, Laytown: Traditional Irish music McPhails: The Enemies d Hotel: Live music with Roy Taylor Boyne Valley Hotel: Slimming World Classes, 9.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm Daly’s, Donore: Traditional Irish music sessions Droichead Arts Centre: The Love Hungry Farmer, O’Neill’s, Duleek: Traditional Irish music sessions d Hotel: Salsa Classes. Beginners 8pm-9pm, Improvers tickets €16, 8:30pm 9pm-10pm. Classes €10, contact Frank on 087-0613590 McPhails: Tequila Rose McHugh’s: Rarely Seen Above Ground, support acts Super Turbo Ninja Club & Carried by Waves. Doors 9pm, tickets €10, from McHugh’s or ticketmaster.ie McPhails: The Wahwahs d Hotel: Live music with Bitter Lemons d Hotel: Live music with Roy Taylor The Thatch: Live music with The Two Guys Salthouse: Live music The Market Bar: Music by Cliché The Pheasant: Live music with Liam B The Coast Tavern, Laytown: Traditional Irish music Barroco Bar: Resident DJ Keith, late bar with concessions to Earth Nightclub Droichead Arts Centre: Poetry and Music by Penny Bru Bar & Bistro: Resident DJ Dave Rimbaud, Tickets €6/€10, 8:30pm The Purple Room: The second instalment of Origins. Salthouse: Live music The Pheasant: Live music with Just Us New club night featuring Dub Sounds/Origins The TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Jazz Night with resident DJ Philay, special guests Conrad Farrell aka David Leddy, tickets €25, 8pm ‘Skinny’ and Johnny Carroll with some Urban Base Sage & Stone: Farmers Market, 11am-4pm Fairyhouse: One day cookery workshop, ‘Six Simple Suppers’, 9.30am-2.30pm, Tickets €95 d hotel: Live music with 2morrow’s Party McPhails: Catch 22 The Market Bar: Music by Paul & Linda McPhails: Bear Garden The Thatch Bar: Live music with Dawn Boyne Valley Hotel: Slimming World classes, 9.30am, The Pheasant: Live music with Liam Kelly 5.30pm & 7.30pm Barroco Bar: Resident DJ Keith, late bar with Market Bar: Music by Snazz concessions to Earth Nightclub Bru Bar & Bistro: Resident DJ Dave Salthouse: Live music Market Bar: Monday Club Droichead Arts Centre: The Legend of Luke Kelly McPhails: Monday Club Tribute Show, tickets €15, 8pm The Punt: Traditional Irish music

Dinosaur Petting Zoo

perfect for school 12.30pm, & 10.30am tours Tickets €70 (family of 4) €15 with schools

Thurs 19th April

30th May

Sat 28th April

The Dubliners

9th June 8pm, Tickets €35/38

Fri 20th April

Sat 21st April

Sun 29th April

Mon 30th April

Coming soon; Moscow Ballet’s Swan Lake – 18th Oct @8pm €35/40, Des Bishop “likes to bang” – 17th Nov @8pm €25

Special Offer

Brothers 10th-14th April €45 { Blood 10% Off with group of 10 or more

Book online at www.theTLT.ie or phone the box office on 041 9878560 East Coast Business Park, Matthews Lane, Drogheda, Co Louth Ph: +353 (0)41 9878560 Fax: +353 (0)41 6849906 Email: info@theTLT.ie Web: www.theTLT.ie SAT NAV Coordinates: for TLT Concert Hall N53° 41.970 W006° 22.301 Other ticket destinations: Service and credit card fee’s may apply Sound shop 041 9831078 Finlays Ardee 041 6856505 D Hotel 041 9877700 (packages only)

All entries correct at time of going to press but may be subject to change. Every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of this listing, however no liability can be accepted for errors or omissions. Check with venues.

E Drogheda

Best

interview

The

of everything

with Drogheda singer and The Voice of Ireland favourite Best moment on The Voice so far: Kian choosing me in the Battle sing-off was a big highlight for me. When I heard Siobhan singing I thought my competition was really tough and that there was a good chance I’d be going home. Getting through on that performance it was like, ‘wow’. It’s hard to be in battle situation when you have to out-sing someone else. It was definitely a big challenge for me, and Siobhan was tough competition. Best contestant to hang out with during rehearsals: Elliot – he’s hilarious. He’s a really quirky guy with a great sense of humour. He comes out with the weirdest of things but he’s just such a lovely guy underneath it all. Best song to sing: I love singing anything by the Carpenters or Ann Wilson from the band Hearts. I love the song ‘Alone’ and

Sharon Gaynor

wanted to sing it on the show, but unfortunately Claire O’Loughlin got in there before me and I didn’t get the chance. Best advice I’ve received from Kian Egan: He’s given me lots of great advice! Being on TV is a whole new thing for me; while I’ve been singing and performing for years, I tend to go into myself a little, like put the head down and close my eyes when singing. Kian has made me more aware of this so I’m trying to stand taller and be more confident. Before every show he always pulls me aside and gives me a great pep talk.

Best influence: My dad gigged for years and I suppose that’s what influenced me down the music route. He sent to me to piano lessons Best thing about being on TV: It’s just great to in Crilly School of Music when I was about get an opportunity to sing to a wider audience six. I was 15 when I started gigging first with – there’s no better place than on TV! I love that local singer John Collier which gave me loads I’m reaching more people, and the support I’ve of experience on the pub scene. When I got to 19 I started playing in live bands and playing been getting from Drogheda and Balbriggan has been fantastic. There’s a great atmosphere keyboards. The whole wedding thing started by accident really when I sang at a friend’s wedding. surrounding the whole show – it’s lovely! I put a video up on YouTube and it just took off, Best stage outfit: I just like people were finding me from everywhere then! to wear something Best childhood memory: I’ve a lot of great comfortable, memories of my granddad George and granny preferably jeans Irene who lived in Boyle O’Reilly. When I was and a nice top. For in school in St Brigid’s I used to go round to their the song ‘All By house for my lunch every day, I had so many Myself’ the stylist lovely happy times them. brought out lots of dresses for me, Best tipple: A nice cold beer! A bottle of but Kian called Heineken always does the trick. the shots and said Best place to eat out: The Eastern Seaboard and I was a young La Pizzeria are two of my favourites. woman and that Best thing on my iPOD: Jeff Buckley’s I should wear album, Grace. It’s an incredible something young collection. and funky. I’m happy with that. Best way to unwind: Putting on a good Best motivation to be crowned The Voice of Ireland: My son Christian – who’s almost a year old – and my husband Eric. I’m doing this for my family and hope that something good will come out of it for all of us. Best Irish singer in the charts right now: I love Imelda May, I think she’s

E Drogheda

fantastic and has such a unique voice.

film and kicking back the recliner chairs with my husband Eric! Best movie: Forrest Gump with Tom Hanks is my favourite film of all time. Best indulgence: Like any girl I love make-up and cosmetics – I did a make-up course and I love collecting different products. Best holiday: My honeymoon! I got married in August 2010 and we went to St Lucia for 10 days. It was paradise, the beaches there are incredible.

To give Sharon your vote catch her next appearance on The Voice of Ireland, Sunday, April 8th, RTE1, 6.30pm

Happy Easter!

2GS Fri 30th March .................. D own D e d si p U ... ... ... ... ... ... h rc a M Sat 31st losed Fri 6th April ........................ C aul P & y rr e G .. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... l ri p Sat 7th A izz B e h .T ... ... ... ... ... ... ... l ri p A th Fri 13 ahon cM M d e G .. ... ... ... ... ... ... l ri p A Sat 14th am B Fri 20th April ..................... Li am Kelly Sat 21st April ..................... Li ash Fir 27th April ......................N st Us Sat 28th April..................... Ju

Now taking bookings for

Communion & Confirmation Child friendly menu & prices

86 Duleek St. Drogheda Call us on: 041 9831421