Essential Drogheda’s FREE Social, Entertainment & Lifestyle Magazine
Drogheda
Issue 4. Vol 1 - February 2010
ISSN 2009-2733
Valentine’s Special - Your dream dates revealed - Flirty lingerie - Romantic getaways
What’s ON Your guide to local events this February
Interviews
Fr Ted star Ardal O’Hanlon & Louth senior football manager Peter Fitzpatrick
Available locally at: Bryanstown Pharmacy; Health Express, Scotch Hall; Hickeys Pharmacy, West Street; McMahons Pharmacy, Shop Street; Donore Pharmacy and Shaws Department Store.
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This Month in E Social
6 - 9 Drogheda’s nightlife in pictures
E Out & About 12, 18, 24, 25 Not-to-be missed events
E Interview 13 Actor and comedian Ardal O’Hanlon shares his stand-up secrets 46 The Best of Everything with Louth senior football manager Peter Fitzpatrick
E Real Life 4 Can’t Get Through The Month Without…
E Travel 23 Truly, Madly, Deeply Romantic getaways in Ireland
E Interiors 27 From Drab to Fab Fantastic tips on how to transform your kitchen E Health & Fitness 28 Let’s Get Physical To go or not to go, that is the question? E Tech 29 Go Gadgets
E Weddings 31-33 Local couples say ‘I do’
10 E Happenings We spread the word on E Drive your behalf 34 Behind The Wheel & Bike Torque 15 What’s Your Dream Valentine’s E Food Day… Locals reveal their ideal date 36-37 Spice Things Up Indus chef Kamal Hussein’s mouth-watering recipes E Fashion 16 Boutique Critique E visits Puzzel E Business Childrenswear 38 Small talk with Marcella Bannon of 17 Undie Cover Feast your eyes on our Droichead Arts Centre and Drogheda favourite flirty lingerie Chamber News
E Beauty 20 Spring Fever E’s guide to the best products on the shelves
E Arts & Culture 41 What’s on in February 44 Event Guide Dates for your diary
Essential Drogheda
editor’s letter L
ove is in the air this month as Valentine’s celebrations (or should that be obligations!) take on a life of their own. But believe it or not, we’re a right romantic bunch here in Drogheda... and rather than ignore February 14th, we embrace it. The proof is in the pudding on pg 15 where E asks several locals to reveal their dream Valentine’s Day. Keep the romance alive with our selection of drop-dead gorgeous lingerie on pg 17 and if you fancy surprising your other half with a weekend away, check out pg 23 for luxury Irish getaways. Fr Ted star Ardal O’Hanlon recalls the last time he cried on pg 13, and Louth Senior Football manager Peter Fitzpatrick talks GAA on pg 46. This month we’re delighted to introduce you to our new E Happenings page on pg 10 where we help you spread the word. Whether it’s an event that deserves more column inches or a simple local news bite, this is your soapbox! Enjoy your read!
Carmel Riggs
Editor
On the Cover: Ronan Freeman with Laura Downes at her 18th Birthday Party in Harry’s Bistro, Mell
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P8
P18
P24
P12
P9
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P32
Don’t Miss Our March Issue – Out February 25th E Drogheda
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Essential Drogheda
Anglo House, Mell Industrial Estate, Drogheda, Co. Louth. Tel: 041 9830297. Fax: 041 9835485. e: info@essentialdrogheda.com Drogheda’s FREE Social, Entertainment, and Lifestyle Magazine Published Monthly and Distributed Free to over 17,000 Homes and Businesses in Drogheda Managing Director: Padraic Kierans e: padraic@essentialdrogheda.com Editor: Carmel Riggs Mob: 087 2248845 e: editor@essentialdrogheda.com Administration: Wendy Smith Tel: 041 98 30297 e: info@essentialdrogheda.com Advertising Sales: Terri Durnin Mob: 087 6475147 e: ads@essentialdrogheda.com Design & Layout: Aisling Murphy, Anglo Printers Photographer: Jimmy Weldon Mob: 086 8339022 Photo Contributors: Tony Campbell, Fergus Clarke & Suzanne Collins Contributors:
Interiors Emma Byrne 087 0552499
Health & Fitness Laura Armada 087 6314752 Published by: Essential Drogheda Publications Ltd. Printed by: Anglo Printers Ltd. Lo-Call 1890 624 624
Can’t get through the month without . . . Carmel Riggs selects the best of what February has to offer
Raising a cuppa to the Diabetes Federation of Ireland! This month the federation is asking everyone to help raise awareness about diabetes by holding a T4DI (Tea for Diabetes Ireland) fundraising event. To register, phone 1850 909 909 or e-mail info@diabetes.ie with your name, a day time contact phone number & the number guests you hope will attend.
If you would like to see your event or photographs featured in Essential Drogheda, email us at info@essentialdrogheda.com Become a fan of Essential on
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Splashing out on your other half for Valentine’s Day! For unusual ideas and gifts with a twist, look no further than www.giftsandvouchers.ie. Whether it’s hot hair ballooning or handmade gift baskets, the Mornington-based online store caters for everyone.
Just the ticket
Taking advantage of the Theatre Meal Deal at Bru Bar & Bistro... Before any show at the Droichead Arts Centre, you can enjoy a two-course dinner for just €15! Simply show your Arts Centre ticket when you arrive to take advantage of this mouthwatering offer!
Disclaimer:
Are You In It?
Savouring the smell of fresh crepes. On Pancake Tuesday (February 16th) the d hotel is serving up gourmet pancakes in aid of the Gary Kelly Cancer Support Centre. From 10am-1pm, all pancakes will be sold for €5.
! c fi f i r It’s teaUnique gifts
The paper used in the production of Essential Drogheda comes from sustainable, managed sources and has been PEFC certified. 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.
Gourmet pancakes
Three cheers
ee Tenors who Having your spirits raised by the Thr , February are performing in The TLT on Saturday of Elvis, 13th. The trio will recreate the magic tickets are €32 Pavarotti, Sinatra to name a few and from www.thetlt.ie
alentine’s V Ball
annual Getting glammed up for the seventh City the in e plac s take ch whi Valentine’s Ball thy wor s Thi . 13th y ruar Feb North Hotel on CAS ABA a ghed Dro of event is in aid ticket School for Children with Autism. For 087 on ta Jacin act cont se availability, plea . all.ie nesb enti eval @th info il 2407431 or ema
Social 4
The Party: Geraldine Bannon’s 21st Birthday The Place: Westcourt Hotel The People: 1 Geraldine Bannon pictured
2 1
3
with some of her friends 2 Geraldine with her dad Gerry, mum Jacinta and brother Ian 3 Jean McCarron and Carol Faulkner 4 Ciara Ryan, Amanda Monaghan, Fiona Connolly and Geraldine Bannon 5 Emma Carroll, Laura Clayton, Aisling Burke and Laura Carpenter
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The Party: Classic Movie Night The Place: La Vida Tapas Wine Bar The People: 1 Sally and Ray
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Barrett 2 Silvio Schembri and Jacqueline Kelly 3 Conor and Violda Mohan 4 Martina Hannigan
Early Bird: 7 days a week till 7pm Only €25 3 course meal from A La Carte Menu
Cocktail Bar with Tapas
Take-aways - Collection only Tel: 041 98 34567 / 56 Fax: 041 98 34663 www.indus.ie
Opening Hours: Tues – Thurs 5.00pm – 11.00pm Fri – Sun 12.30pm – 11pm Closed Mondays
3 BRyanstown CentRe, DRogheDa, Co. Louth
Social
The Party: Brian Lynch’s 40th Birthday Bash The Place: The Thatch The People: 1 Brian Lynch with his wife
Brona and Anna Maguire 2 Donna Thornton and Brona Lynch 3 Brian Smith, Nickey Gogan, James Lynch and Robert Victory
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1
1
The Party: Louth Hunt Ball The Place: Darver Castle The People: 1 John Sullivan and Lyndsey
Dowdall 2 Joint masters Joe Callan, Ralph Hoey and Gerry Boylan 4 Paula Finnegan and Paula Egan
3 2
1 3
2
3
The Party: Laura Downes’ 18th Birthday The Place: Harry’s Bistro The People: 1 Laura Downes with her
grandmother Ethna 2 Hayley Lawless, Laura Downes and Amy Farrell 4 Donna Gallagher and Sinead Smith
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email your photos to info@essentialdrogheda.com
The Party: Graham McBride’s 30th Birthday Party The Place: The Thatch Lounge The People: 1 Graham McBride with his sisters Ciara, Nicola and
Social
Sharon 2 Amanda and Dawn Reilly 3Graham and Chrissie McBride
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2
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The Party: Amy Collier’s 21st Birthday The Place: The Westcourt Hotel The People: 1 Frances Behan and Alison Daly 2 Denise and
Amy Collier
1
The Party: Niall Boyle’s CD Launch The Place: Bru The People: 1 Janet and Vincent McDonnell 2 Donna
Brady, Lisa Shevlin and Lisa Cummins 3 Niall Boyle 4 Brenda Bohill, Gillian Boyle, Martina Mohan and Suzanne Brennan
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Spreading the word... Sky’s the limit
Purple Sessions
Who is the bravest of them all? The girls that’s who! When it comes to thrill seekers willing to have a go at Skyclimb – the amazing aerial assault course suspended 50ft up in Funtasia’s Waterpark – it seems the ladies are far pluckier than the lads. Funtasia’s MD Bernard McCormick has been watching as dare devil teens, office parties and folk out on corporate team building exercises, tackle the Indianna Jones type challenges. ‘Men start off full of bravado but we’ve noticed it’s the women who get to the finish line first,’ he said. The ninnies needn’t worry as you can’t fall, strapped up in your Skyclimb safety harness – but it’s still an incredible adrenaline buzz. For the month of February, Funtasia has a special ‘buy get one free’ offer on the Skyclimb – where else would you get the chance to take an indoor parachute jump? Visit www.funtasia.ie/waterpark
Email: thegolfbag@eircom.net
Mark the last Friday of every month in your diary – now! The Purple Sessions in The Punt Bar on Fair Street is a great night out with musicians from all over the country lining up to perform. The brainchild of Aidan Reilly and Gerry Hodgers, the duo search out acts through MySpace and YouTube and each month up to five artists take to the stage. It’s a case of lights, camera, action on the night as all of the performances are recorded and, in some instances, released on YouTube . ‘We both work full-time – I’m a chef and Aidan’s a mechanic – but the Purple Sessions is like a hobby that’s taken on a life of its own!’ says Gerry. Acts confirmed for this month are Keith Mullins, The Long Knives and Shane Davis. Admission is free and doors open at 9pm. To find out more, visit www.myspace.com/last2leavemusic
Club celebrations
Liverpool legend and Irish international player John Aldridge will be arriving in town on March 5th to help East Meath United FC (EMU) celebrate their 10th anniversary. A gala dinner evening is being held in the City North Hotel and tickets are now on sale for €60 each. Everyone from the local community is welcome to attend and help make this a night to remember for the players, coaches, managers and supporters. There will be a prize for the best dressed lady and, of course, signed Liverpool and Irish International jerseys to be won. To reserve your tickets, email emufundraising@ gmail.com, or call Irene on 087 1205202. For your chance to win two tickets and meet John Aldridge, simply email emufundraising@gmail.com with the answer to the following question: How many goals did John Aldridge score for Liverpool?
New store 14 North Quay, opposite Scotch Hall Foot Bridge Callaway Diablo Drivers Now €179
Odyssey Putters From €75
100’s Of Jumpers & Shirts From €10
Callaway X22 Irons Were €699 Now €469
Ping Drivers From €179
Galvin Green Rain Wear 25% off
Callaway Diablo Hybrid Cobra Drivers(Ex Demo) Galvin Green Polo Shirts Were €159 Now €99 From €50 Were €100 Now €50 Callaway Ladies Big New Cobra Drivers S9-1 Bertha Irons Now €189 Were €649 Now €429 Golf Shoes All other Callaway Stock From €15 33% Off
Ralph Lauren Shirts 50% off Srixon Golf Balls From €12 per Doz
February Special:
Get your clubs re-griped(min 12 grips) & receive 1 doz Titleist Pro V1 Balls Free
Designer dresses Start as you mean to go on is the motto at Frilly Frocks, Bachelors Lane, who set up shop last year with a superb range of wedding gowns for all tastes. This year is no different with new labels being added to the store to sit alongside the already well-known names such as Pronovias and Paloma Blanca. Frilly’s have brought exclusively to Ireland Johanna Hehir and Claire Mischevani Couture, much to the delight of owner Dara Caffrey. She says: ‘We have had a fantastic first year and we have loved dressing our brides. Part of our job as buyers is to find new and exciting labels to stock, and with the arrival of our two new ranges we feel we really have something different and unique to offer any bride to be.’ Don’t miss the Designer Days on February 6th (Sharon Bowen Couture) and February 13th (Joanna Hehir); visit www.frillyfrocks.ie or call 041-9801740.
Get your Powacaddy Cart checked & serviced for the season ahead Only €40 (The Golf Bag is a Powacaddy Service agent)
1000’s of other items at great prices! Wishing all our customers a very Happy 2010
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email your details to info@essentialdrogheda.com
Eastern Seaboard
Out & about
1 Colette and Fiona Morrissey with Elaine Pentony 2 Elaine Vaughey and Rosie Burnell 3 Daniella O’Rourke, Denise Collins and Helen McCullen
1 2 3
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Mother Hughes 1 Lee Monaghan, Roisin Everard and Edel Thornton 2 Caroline McHugh, Grace Rogers and Louise Matthews 3 Karl Bell, Stephanie Dunbar and Calvin Dunbar 4 Jason and Sharon Skelly
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Storm 1 Colm Battersby, Graham McBride and Robert Healy 2 Tara Clarke and Kerry Smith 3 Viktomia Urbanovic and Erica Rukaite 4 Titch and Lily Caffrey
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interview Do your children find you funny? Not as funny as I find them! What makes you laugh? TV shows like Curb Your Enthusiasm, The Larry Sanders Show and The Savage Eye, which was written by and starred Irish comedian David McSavage.
It’s a funny old world
The last time you cried? I’m an awful man for crying while watching films. I think the last one was Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. How do you like to unwind? By playing football and tennis with the children; walking the dog and, of course, movies and wine.
he’s played a super hero, a priest and a politician – now Ardal O’Hanlon returns to the stage as himself. Carmel Riggs chats to the actor ahead of his Droichead Arts Centre performance
Fr Dougal Maguire in Fr Ted was a TV legend. Do you ever miss him? Not really. Sometimes I miss the others and the craic and the whole phenomenon. It all went by in a blur. Now it feels like it was somebody else who played the part.
On tv
Comparisons have been made between Fr Ted and Val Falvey. Can you relate to this? There are some similarities for sure because of the involvement of co-writer Arthur Mathews, but I think Val Falvey is more subtle, slow-burning and character-based than Fr Ted (and of course less funny!).
Who’s your closest friend in the business? It’s not a business that is conducive to really close friendships. On acting jobs you form very intense but all too short-lived bonds Playing stupid characters What annoys you most about with people, whereas stand-ups is something that you the comedy scene? It can be a are like ships passing in the do brilliantly. But how bit too noisy and crass sometimes. night. Having said that, it was a intelligent are you? As a pleasure to do a short tour of the French philosopher once said, US last year with my old friends Do you ever get stage fright ‘having lots of ideas doesn’t make Tommy Tiernan and Dylan when performing live? I used you intelligent in the same way Moran. Also, I’d still be fairly to be a bit of a mess but now I as having lots of soldiers doesn’t close to comedians Barry Murphy relish it. The more you put in, make you a great general!’ I and Kevin Gildea with whom I the more you get out of it. suppose knowing that makes me started out in the sketch group slightly less stupid than some of Can you recall your most Mr Trellis. And the festivals are my characters…or does it? embarrassing moment on just one big party! stage? I fell asleep on stage one The political comedy series time in Belfast. I hadn’t been to If you had to give up showbiz Val Falvey was received tomorrow, what would you bed at all the night before and well on RTE recently. Did do? When I finally grow up I’d during my set I just drifted off. you enjoy playing the like to write novels but stand-up I could hear somebody doing incompetent TD? I loved it, and acting remain very seductive my routines in the distance and especially working with actors and sociable ways to pass the I got very annoyed and woke up like Owen Roe and Phelim time. and realised it was me. I always Drew. I enjoy the low-key try and get some sort of a nap in naturalistic semi-improvisational With Valentine’s Day coming these days. style employed on Val.
up, I have to ask, what’s the most romantic thing you’ve ever done? This may not sound that romantic on the surface but many years ago I fished out my wifeto-be’s engagement ring from a seriously blocked toilet. That’s true love. Finally, what’s 2010 got in store for you? I’m mostly concentrating on stand-up this year, doing tours of Ireland in February and the UK in the autumn as well as a few stints in the US. Ardal O’Hanlon takes to the stage in the Droichead Arts Centre on February 18th. Tickets €25, visit www.droichead.com
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Jimmy Monks, Drogheda
Real Life
What’s m a e r d r you s ’ e n i t n Vale Day?
‘My dream Valentine would have to be Jessica Alba. I wouldn’t have to do anything because, well, I’ve already got Jessica Alba so I’d probably just spoil her rotten and give her a present for every hour of the day!’
atie Kierans K s a ir a e th in is Love ct date... discovers your perfe Ann Tracey, Drogheda
‘My dream Valentine would be George Clooney, I’d love for him to whisk me away to Paris for the weekend, to be wined and dined and to buy loads of presents for me just because I’m worth it. My gift to him would be that I’d take everything in good grace and have a smile on my face for the entire time.’
Teddy Thomas,
Drogheda ‘My dream Valentine would have to be Beyonce. I’d bring her shopping and buy her some presents, then we’d have some dinner and either go to the cinema or watch a good film.’
Clare Fogarty, Drogheda
‘Johnny Depp’s my dream Valentine. I’d love a really nice, quiet dinner – nothing too fussy. To be honest, I probably wouldn’t do anything for him; I’d just take him out.’
Diana Connolly,
Clogherhead ‘Gino D’acampo is my dream Valentine. My dream Valentine’s Day would be to go away for the night without the kids and to be wined and dined. I wouldn’t buy him a thing because I’m the one who deserves to be pampered!’
Graeme Boyle
Laytown ‘Cheryl Cole is my dream Valentine. I’d bring her to a posh hotel; buy her a present and a nice dress. We’d stay in bed all day and then I’d bring her for a romantic meal with a few bottles of wine.’
Denise Fogarty,
Drogheda ‘Daniel Craig would have to be my dream date. My dream Valentine’s would be for my boyfriend to whisk me off to Paris for a romantic getaway. And as a Valentine’s present, I’d cook for him as he always cooks dinner for me.’
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Fashion
e u q i t u o B Critique I
t’s only been around three years – but already Puzzel on Meatmarket Lane in Drogheda has become like a landmark in the town. Parents come from as far as Antrim and Naas to deck their children out in Puzzel’s finery, including top labels Tommy Hilfiger, Mayoral, Timberland, Roxy, Catimini, Little Darlings and many more. ‘It’s branded merchandising that we do,’ says owner Greg Tully. ‘A lot of people know their brands and want to dress their children in these labels. They not only like the look and style of the clothing but they recognise that the quality is second to none.’ Greg Tully had over 25 years experience working in his father’s shop, Hubert Tully’s on West St, when he set up on his own. He says: ‘I looked after the ladies and children’s wear in my father’s shop – those departments were my babies! But then I decided to set up on my own and I haven’t looked back.’ He credits his staff McGowan, Caroline – Margaret Sheridan, Angela Grant and Ciara Coughlan – for providing a personal
Boys Communion and Confirmation, both casual service at Puzzel. and formal wear
crew and e a good ‘They’rDEPOSITS TAKEN - CLUBS WELCOME GIFT TOKENS AVAILABLE, NO EXPIRY DATE the girls have over the years know a lot of the gotten to Unit 2, Meatmarket Lane, Drogheda, Co. Louth. Ph: 041 9810426 children who come in,’ adds Greg. ‘They have a good idea of the style of clothing parents like or dislike which goes down really well with our customers.’ These days at Puzzel the casual gear has taken somewhat of a backseat as the Communion and Confirmation wear take centre stage. In fact, so popular are Puzzel’s Communion dresses that Greg has hired an apartment at Fitzwilliam Place to store the dresses and accessories. ‘Parents can make an appointment in the shop to go to the apartment and try on the dresses,’ he says. For the boys, black and grey Communion suits are big in demand this year together with strong coloured shirts. Check out Puzzel’s facebook page for special offers.
Customised T-Shirts | Polo Shirts | Hoodies | Football Kits | Jackets 194 T. 1
ES
• Hen & Stag Parties • Restaurants • Sports Clubs • Retail Shops • Car Clubs
ANY TEXT OR IMAGE HERE
18th June 2010
GAS HOLE
KILKENNY
L A ISA N G ’S EL S
S
IN
POSITION
Vallegrande, Crufty, Drogheda, Co. Meath email: info@allsignsandlabels.ie Mob: 087-2396233 Tel/Fax: 041-9830162
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Fashion
Black & white gingham bra €24, matching briefs €11, Marks & Spencers, Laurence Town Centre
Organza trimmed bustier, €9, matching satin thong €3, Penneys, West St
Floral bra €19, knickers €8, Marks & Spencers, Laurence Town Centre
Rose Camisole e19, briefs e7, M&S, Laurence Town Centre,
This Valentine’s Day, pull out all the stops with these sexy yet inexpensive lingerie... We spend hours choosing the right clothes for a big night out, so why would our lingerie be any different? Buying lingerie can be expensive but by shopping in the right places it needn’t be! The reality is lingerie shopping can be as difficult or easy as you make it and it all comes down to being prepared (ie knowing the right style for your shape). If you’re in the market for a comfortable pair of boy shorts, you don’t necessarily have to break the bank to get good quality (or even sexy) panties. With a little finesse it’s easy to look and feel sexy without putting your bank account in danger!
Mink heart print bra €19, matching briefs €11, Next, Scotch Hall
Pink headband €4, pink & burgandy bra €12, matching briefs €5, New Look, Scotch Hall
Pink padded bra (2 pack) €21, lace trim shorts (2 pack) €11, Next, Scotch Hall
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“Are You In It?”
Out Purple Sessions & about The Punt 1
1 Hugh Patrick 2 Gerry Hodgers and Aidan Reilly 3 Michael Maher, Steven Hogan, and David Maher
2
1
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3
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Fusion 1 Robert Dawe and Rosie Mulroy 2 Nikitta Campbell and Pamela Lee 3 Katie Donagh, Ouin Solanke and Shayna Meegan
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Beauty Goodbye wrinkles
When you put it on, ROC Retin-Ox Wrinkle Filler claims to instantly smooth out the skin and ‘plump’ your wrinkles, making them less visible. After around eight weeks of use, however, the company say even the deepest wrinkles will be reduced. Now, what’s not to love about that? Compared to other creams, this formula is light and easily absorbed. €33.09, Hickey’s Pharmacy, West St
Purple reign
Eye spy
This pretty eye palette is part of Clarins’ Cotton Flower spring collection and contains a quartet of blue-hued shadows and a fab cream eyeliner (€35, Mahers Chemist, West St). Also, look out for Clarins’ almond scented pink glosses, Iced Pink and Sweet Fig which are packed full of Vitamin E for a perfect pout!
Good hair day
Give your hair some TLC with Revlon’s Shine Up Shampoo (€12.50, 250ml, Moda Vida Hair Salon, Stockwell St). This fortifying vitamin shampoo brings volume, strength and shine to fine, lifeless hair. The Hydra Capture system fortifies the structure of the hair and helps to give your tresses extra bounce without weighing it down. Of course, it helps that it smells fantastic too!
Spring fever
When it comes to nail colours, purple is definitely the new black this spring. Vendetta Nail Lacquer by Chanel (€21, Town Centre Pharmacy) might be on the expensive side but its staying power is second to none. Depending on how the light hits it, this is a rich dark purple that at times can look either black or deep wine in colour.
Fabulous lashes
This maybe stubborn to get off, but Lash No7 Intense Vo lume Waterproof Mascara is smudge-proof and gives full lashes that many, mo re expensive mascara’s never achieve. €14.75, Boots, Laurence Town Centre
E’s Favourite
Beauty Products
Love it…
The Voya Cleanse and Mend is a deep pore cleanser that is suitable for all skin types. It draws out impurities from the skin leaving it feeling fresh and comfortable. Apply 1-2 pumps of the product to face and wipe off with a muslin cloth soaked in warm water. €25 for 125ml, La Spa Therapie
Try it…
Check it out...
Good news for savvy beauty shoppers, the Beauty Academy on Fair Street has launched a brand new Nothing can make your look more line-up of treatment services and retail products dramatic and expressive than long, which are now open to the public. As well as Gosh full eyelashes. But even with the best and Smashbox makeovers, the new salon offers mascara, only a few of us can achieve state-of-the-art digital skin scanning, Dermalogica that result. That’s why false eyelashes and Dr Murad facials. According to Beauty are enjoying a massive comeback, and Academy Director, Linda Ennis, these products with a selection of over 30 styles at just have been chosen specifically for their results – not €15 available from Fuschia, Scotch Hall, just their marketing appeal. Yes, please…visit there is something to suit all tastes. www.beautyacademy.ie
Linda Crosby of La Spa Therapie answers your questions I have a terrible habit of biting my nails so for my wedding in six weeks’ time, I’m thinking of getting acrylic nails put on. However, some of my friends have said that if I do this I will ruin my own nails – is this true? Sinead, Tullyallen, Drogheda Getting your nails done professionally is a must – especially for your big day! Putting acrylic nails on short bitten nails is no problem as after a couple of months your own nails will grow and improve in shape. If you apply acrylic on your own natural nails, your nails underneath cannot breathe so they will be softer than before, but after a week or two they will be fine again. It’s important to always get your acrylic nails removed by a professional nail technician. Enjoy your day! 20
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Got a beauty dilemma?
Email Linda Crosby at info@essentialdrogheda.com with your query
Over the holiday period, I have over-indulged and put on a few extra pounds, I want to lose weight but I have very little motivation and I feel sluggish all the time. How can I change my relationship with food and get started on the new me? Michelle, Drogheda Motivation is key here and it’s important to put your old habits to bed now! Contact your local day spa for detox packages and slimming wraps that will help kickstart your new weight loss regime – and get on the road to the new you!
Experience The Difference Pure Luxury, Exceptional Value
Serenity Choose any 3 of the following:
Full Body Spray Tan File & Paint (hands or feet) Make-Up Eyebrow Shape €60 (normally €92)
For the Ladies
Indulgence Choose any 3 of the following:
Tranquillity
Voya Seaweed Bath Full Body Massage
Full Facial Full Body Massage Voya Seaweed Bath Reflexology
€100 (normally €135)
€150 (normally €195)
& don’t forget the
Refresher
Hot Towel Barbers Shave Indian Head Massage €50 (normally €77)
Men!
Sportsman
Aqua Relax
Hot Towel Barbers Shave Golfers Champion Massage Scalp Massage
Voya Seaweed Bath Full Body Massage Facial
€100 (normally €129)
€150 (normally €200)
To make an appointment or for further information on any of the treatments available at La Spa Therapie, call us today on 041 980 3000, visit www.LaSpaTherapie.ie, email info@LaSpaTherapie.ie or call in: Dublin Road, Drogheda (opposite The Black Bull)
Fine dining If celebrity chef Gordon Ramsey’s
travel
restaurant is not enough to entice you to The Ritz Carlton Powerscourt in Enniskerry, Co Wicklow then the uber romantic setting is sure to win you over. The fact it possesses some of the finest golf and spa amenities around… well, we’re not complaining. A deluxe room for two on February 13th will set you back €325, including breakfast and a 3-course lunch the following day. Visit www.ritzcarlton.com
Truly, madly, deeply..
Home from home
The epitome of romantic refinement, Ballyvolane House in North Cork is like a home away from home! Enjoy a stroll in the idyllic landscaped gardens surrounding the Georgian splendor, or bask in the warmth of the open log fires. A weekend stay costs from €319 per person sharing, including a feast of delicious wines and food each night and late breakfasts each morning. A complimentary half bottle of champagne will greet you on arrival.
Cool as ice
As the name suggests The Ice House, in Ballina, Co. Mayo is chillingly cool. It’s an ultra-chic boutique hotel that, once inside the front door, boasts high levels of design and finish. For €250 per person sharing, you can enjoy two night’s accommodation, a gourmet 6-course dinner, bubbly and chocolate-covered strawberries. Is your heart racing yet? Visit www.icehousehotel.ie
They’re only a short drive away, so why not out For something Keep the Faith make your Valentine’s Splash special, splash out on a suite at The Faithlegg House Hotel weekend even more Ashford Castle in Cong, Co. Mayo. and Golf Club in Waterford red roses and a bottle is an 18th century mansion special at one of these Aof dozen chilled champagne on arrival that has been beautifully luxury hotels… will get you in the mood for being transformed into a charming 4-star hotel. The weekend spoiled. This package rings in at €1,030 per room for two nights, and includes a five-course dinner in the renowned George V Dining Room. Heavenly. Visit www.ashford.ie
Summer Sun 01 May 02 May 02 May 07 May 08 May 08 May 08 May
7 nights 7 nights 7 nights 7 nights 7 nights 7 nights 7 nights
e378 pp e379 pp e359 pp e299 pp e369 pp e299 pp e369 pp
Turkey Portugal Fuerteventura Menorca Gran Canaria Majorca Tenerife
Caribbean Cruises
7 night Caribbean Cruises( cruise only) Oct and Nov Departures from e350 pp
Mexico
Dreams Puerto Aventuras (All Inclusive) May and June departures 7 nights from e1335.00 pp
Mauritius
4* Tamassa Hotel (Half Board) May and June Departures 7 nights from e1230pp plus taxes
romance package is a mere €119 per person sharing and includes a rose petal turn down in your room on the Saturday night (February 13th), a late check-out on Valentine’s Day and a champagne and strawberry brunch before you leave. Visit www.faithlegg.com
Special Offers
Summer Sun & Ski Holidays
Dominican Republic
5* Dreams Palm Beach All Inclusive May and June Departures 7 nights from e1118 pp
Orlando
Family Offers for April
Quality Inn Plaza 8 NIGHTS 2 Adults & 2 children (under 12) Cost e1956.00 DoubleTree Resort 2 Adults & 2 children (under 12) Cost e1980.00
Ski Holidays Austria
06th Feb 7 nights from e319 pp
(extra cost travel insurance and ski pack)
France
06th Feb 7 nights from e579 pp
(extra cost travel insurance and ski pack)
Switzerland
06th Feb 7 nights from e229 pp
(extra cost travel insurance and ski pack)
Global enough to serve you... local enough to know you! 5 Laurence Street, Drogheda, Co. Louth. t +353 41 9837791 f +353 41 9834500 e info@globetravel.ie w www.globetravel.ie
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Brendan Grace
Out & about
at the TLT
1 Gavin and Orlaith Duffy 2 Eddie and Theresa O’Brien with Sean Grifferty 3 Brendan Grace with Thomasina Butterly 4 Lisa Murphy and Alan Healy
4
3
2 1
1
1
Barroco
2
1 Elizabeth Pentony, Daniella O’Brien and Tara Clarke 2 Nicola Coleman, Emma Owens, Audrey Duff and Layola Heeney 3 Lisa Dyas and Carol Ryan 5 Caroline and Robbie Kelly with David and Carmel Bergin 5 Aoife Cromwell and Sinead Sheridan
Freddie Mercury Tribute Show in the dHotel
1 Patricia Harrison and Pauline Brunty 2 Catherine Bagnall and Deborah Harrison
2 3
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4
5
1
1 2
Bru
1 Noel, Karen and Imelda Dunne 2 Aoife Culhane and Aisling O’Donnell 3 Barry Carroll and Ruth Hoey
3 2
Jason Byrne in the dHotel
3
4
1 Jason Byrne reads Essential Drogheda! 2 Eimer and Aoife Murphy 3 Peter and Caroline Lawlor 4 Jason Byrne with Karen Murphy
3 2
4
1
The Black Bull 1 Ian O’Brien and Megan Farrell 2 Killian Smith with Melissa Healy and Jennifer Reid 3 Fiona Cox, Jenny Cox and Orlagh Fagan 4 Damien Walsh and Carla Seery
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from drab
Interiors
T
he kitchen is often the busiest room in the house and now in so many homes it is an office, a school room, a meeting place, a playground – and sometimes even where meals are prepared! If you are lucky enough to be redesigning your kitchen from scratch, then make sure you spend as much time on the layout as the actual look of the room. Choosing which cabinet doors and which knobs should really be secondary to the functionality. Mark your floor out with chalk and see how the room ‘works’. It’s important to ask yourself a number of questions: Can you open the fridge door without knocking into something; how far does the oven door come out when open, i.e. can you bend down to lift out the Christmas turkey? Is the dishwasher close to the place you store crockery, or do you have to lug scalding plates across the kitchen? Also, research your prospective kitchen supplier well. A good company will be happy to let you contact previous clients to get a reference. However, if like the rest of us, you are stuck with what you have here are some simple ways to revamp:
to fab!
Uplift your kitchen with interior designer Emma Byrne’s tricks of the trade
New knobs
Homebase in Drogheda Retail Park, Donore Road has a great range of knobs and handles (pictured) that will transform any kitchen.
Hit the tiles People often think that retiling will be a major hassle and expensive but a good tiler can be in and out of your kitchen for a lot less money and mess than you’d think. As we all know the more trendy the tile the quicker they will date, and classics always work better. In a kitchen, I find it hard to beat metro tiles in white and they work equally well with a traditional or modern design. They won’t date and seem to look fresh and bright in all circumstances – a real design classic! BTW, Donore Business Park, is an essential place to check out if you’ve got a tiling project planned. Check out their range on www.btw.ie
Storage solution
Store away your favourite tipple in this stylish wine rack.Made from natural-finished wood this 12-bottle rack is the perfect shape for awkward spaces. If you like to build up your wine collection, you can buy additional racks to add on. €8.95, Argos, Drogheda Retail Park
Paint tired cabinets In just one weekend you can make a huge difference to your kitchen. For a better look, take the doors off before painting and if you want to go for a high gloss finish consider getting a professional in (gloss paint is very unforgiving of the amateur). In general, a satin or eggshell finish (try Estate Eggshell by Farrow & Ball, €93 for 5 litre tin, Murtaghs of Drogheda, Fair Green) works better and can still be rubbed clean. Off white and cream will always give a classic look but think a little outside the box. Pale greys and blues can look amazing teamed with steel knobs – and how about purple for a really upbeat look?
Ditch the curtains Unless you absolutely need them for privacy I’m not a big fan of curtains in kitchens. They act like a great big sponge, absorbing all the cooking smells and grease. If the budget allows, consider installing shutters – but white wooden blinds are a more economical alternative. You’ll be pleased to hear that Julian Blinds & Interiors, East Coast Business Park (beside Tesco) currently have a half-price sale on wooden blinds. So no more excuses! Emma’s design fees start at €85 for a colour consultation on one room. She will provide suggested colour scheme, paint and wall coverings, fabrics and flooring. For more details on Ember Design, tel: 087-0552499 or email info@emberdesign.ie. Kitchen picture supplied by Declan Byrne, Foxhall Country Kitchens
Picture This
Make a feature of your favourite photographs by displaying them in this duck egg collage frame. Besides its obvious wow factor, it will instantly add a splash of colour to your wall. €33, Next, Scotch Hall
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E
Health & Fitness
S
t e g Let’s
physical!
your teeth – and not just o you’ve splashed out on another trend. new trainers, a fabulous It can be a useful tracksuit and a matching vest. You’re New Year’s resolution exercise to sit down with is to shape up. But a month on a piece of paper, and and some of us have already write down a list of abandoned the idea of getting fit. things that you want to We all make excuses at some stage achieve over the next year, A month into the New Year and some of us regarding the reason why we need to miss a then write down what you have already abandoned our new exercise work-out, and these reasons can vary. In our busy will need to achieve them, and and often stressful lives, we convince ourselves regimes. Laura Armada of Labfitness who can help you. For example: that sometimes there simply isn’t enough time to has heard all the excuses... here ‘I want to learn Yoga, so I need to exercise. Things like work, phone calls, children, the she shows how to incorporate find a class on the internet, or look for weather, TV, illness, etc, are common excuses, but before local posters, I need an evening each week fitness into your daily to get out, and I need someone to look after long the needs of others begin to far outweigh our own need – to routine the kids.’ Then you can ask yourself if there is anything be physically active! As you can imagine, I hear some fabulous excuses each week and that will stop you from being able to do this easily, and if there is a despite the fact that I empathise with some (like a serious illness or problem, how can you solve it? injury), others can be quite funny to an extent! What I am simply Once you have made a list, you can place your wishes in order of trying to say is that your fitness is not aware if it’s raining, summer priority, and look at how achievable they really are. It may be useful or winter or if your favourite soap is on the TV. It is entirely up to to have a back-up plan; what will you do if the weather is too bad to go out for a run, is there an exercise video you can do at home if ‘YOU’ to keep your fitness regime regular. In a couple of weeks’ time there will be a new wave of people your babysitter lets you down, or a class on a different night? Place coming to fitness classes and gyms looking for quick results before your goals into manageable time scales; forever is a terribly long time their summer holidays. Miracles don’t just happen (and particularly when it comes to giving up crisps, so try shorter term goals using in the female population). It is important that you understand that days, weeks and months. This should help you to organize a plan of ‘fitness’ is a way of life, the same way as having breakfast and brushing action that you will be more likely to stick to – a simple but effective exercise. Remember, miracles don’t just happen. If your goal, for example, is to look good in your bikini this summer, now is the time to start training, and not three weeks before your trip. Try different types of classes/sports until you find one or several that you enjoy and even once you have found an activity that you really like, don’t do the same thing forever. After all, variety is the spice of life! Check out www.labfitness.com or contact Laura on 087-6314752 for the studio’s full range of fitness classes and timetables.
‘Bingo Wings’ Exercises
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that is located at the back Your triceps is the muscle nly known as ‘bingo of the upper arm, commo fantastic exercise to do at wings’. Triceps dips are a to tone area’. home to target this ‘hard er width-apart on Step 1. Place hands a should ing forward. a chair/step with fingers fac of the chair/ Move your bum in front -apart. step keeping feet hip width ards Step 2. Lower your body tow ows the floor by bending the elb your to a 90 degree angle. Keep you back close to the chair as . wn do lf rse lower you up Step 3. Push yourself back ds. han r you gh ou pressing thr elbow Avoid over extending the s 3-4 joint. Do 2-3 sets of 12 rep ek. we times per
goets
gadg
tech
Mp3 Camera Sunglasses Ever wanted to take a snap while skiing or cycling? Now you can with these UV400 polarized flip-up sunglasses that cleverly let you take pictures of anything you see without having to carry around a separate camera. With the additional bonus of a built-in mp3 player, these lenses are ideal for indulging those James Bond spy camera fantasies! €129, www.thegadgetstore.ie
Digital Compass Carabiner with Thermometer & Clock This urban gadget houses a clock, compass, stopwatch and thermometer – perfect for taking on those long walking trips in the city or countryside! It also attaches to your backpack, belt or bike making it easy to carry around. €25, TAS, Barrack St, Drogheda, or visit www.tastelsys.com
Discover DJ So you fancy yourself as a DJ then? Well, now’s your chance to show off your talents with Discover DJ. Load the included MixVibes Cross LE software, plug in Discover DJ, and you’re ready to rock. Mix tracks with the DJ crossfader, scratch, EQ, and even do more advanced DJ effects like pitching up and down! €129, www.thegadgetstore.ie
Sony Reader Touch Edition Get your hands on this super-thin Reader and enjoy a convenient, on-the-go reading experience like no other! Whether you’re a constant traveler, a daily commuter or a leisurely reader , the Reader lets you carry up to 350 (or more with memory expansion card slots) of your favorite books at a time. The 6’’ touchscreen display makes navigation a breeze, letting you turn pages with the swipe of a finger. We’re hooked! €289, The Sony Centre, Scotch Hall
Wireless Audio Visual Intercom System Gone are the days when you have to leave the couch to see who’s at the front door! This bilateral intercom system comes with an outdoor unit and a portable indoor receiver with a 2.4 inch screen to let you see who’s at the door from anywhere in your home. €200, TAS, Barrack St, Drogheda, or visit www.tastelsys.com
.Y.M.P. G m o fr r a e W n o ti a rm Exclusive Girls Confi yrs 4 -1 0 1 e g a , ck to s in w o n
DEPOSITS TAKEN CLUBS WELCOME
Boys Confirmation Wear now also in stock Unit 2, Meatmarket Lane, Drogheda, Co. Louth. Ph: 041 9810426
Calculate online all the
€100’s
you can save with a Monthly or Annual Commuter Ticket. That should add a smile to your face.
Go to TaxSaver.ie and see exactly what you’ll save on your train fare.
Weddings
WE D D I N G S at the d hotel
The Viaduct Wedding Package Style, Quality & Value from €45 per person
★★★★
Please contact our Wedding Planners on 041 9877700 or weddings@thedhotel.com
the d hotel Scotch Hall, Drogheda, Co. Louth.
www.thedhotel.com
John Keane weds Nuala Thornton When Nuala Thornton, from Oaklawns, married John Keane, from Listowel, Co. Kerry, in his home town on New Year’s Eve, it was -5C outside. Bridesmaids were Grace Clarke and Donna Kavanagh, lifelong friends of the bride. Bestman was Paudie O’Connell and groomsman was Andrew Keane. Flowergirls were Lucy and Blathnaid Keane. The wedding ceremony which was performed by Fr. Donal McCarthy, took place in St Mary’s Church, Listowel – only walking distance from the Listowel Arms Hotel, where the reception was held. In excess of 100 people travelled from Drogheda to Listowel on the day prior to the wedding. The wonderful Kerry Blue band had all the guests up dancing and ringing in the New Year. The newlyweds honeymooned in Paris. Photos by Fergus Clarke
Gary Gaffney weds Brona Grogan Brona Grogan from Garristown and Gary Gaffney from Dunleer were married in St. Brigid’s Church, Dunleer. Brona had three bridesmaids, Sarah Duffy who was chief bridesmaid and also Danielle Gaffney and Claire Grogan. The bestman was Cathal Grace and groomsmen were Alan Grogan and Ryan Gaffney. The honour of being flowergirl and pageboy went to Kate O’Reilly and Sam O’Reilly. Brona looked stunning in her dress from the Bridal Studio. The celebrations were enjoyed in Darver Castle where Celtic Rose entertained the guests. The happy couple honeymooned in New York and Florida. Photos by Suzanne Collins
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Weddings
OWEN FOX J E W E L L E R S 39 Shop Street, Drogheda
� 041 9838357
Darren Levins weds Sinead Donnelly Sinead Donnelly from Scarlett Crescent and Darren Levins from Georgian Close said those two all important words ‘I do’ on July 11th. The ceremony took place in the Star of the Sea Church, Mornington, with Sinead looking radiant in her dress from the Bridal Studio. Her three sisters Helen, Patricia and Mary were delighted to be bridesmaids on the day. Darren chose Keith Heeney to carry out the bestman duties, and Jim Connolly and Dean Levins were groomsmen. They had a few helping hands from their flowergirl Claire Levins and their two pageboys, their sons, Jack and Jamie. The couple held their reception in the City North Hotel where a good time was had by all thanks to Electric Avenue. Photos byTony Campbell
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Mark Hodder weds Ciara McAleer Mark Hodder from New Zealand travelled a long way to find the love of his life, Ciara McAleer. With both of them being avid rugby players (thanks to Boyne Rugby Club!) their paths were destined to cross. Five years after they first got together they said their wedding vows in Balbriggan Church on June 29th last year. Ciara was very lucky to have no less than four bridesmaids by her side – Sandra and Lorna McAleer, Miriam Kelly and Caroline Cruise. Bestman on the day was Scott Harvey and groomsmen were Anthony Slomen, Christian Stemmet and Alan Hodder. Ciara and Mark’s daughter Lauriann was given the honour of being flowergirl. They held their reception in the Bettystown Court Hotel. Photos by Suzanne Collins
Derek Thornton weds Natalie O’Brien Natalie O’Brien from Hillview and Derek Thornton from Hand Street were married on June 9th last year in beautiful sunny Greece. Surrounded by family and friends, the wedding ceremony took place at St. Markos Church in the town of Zante. Music was carried throughout the service by close friends Sarah O’Hare and Ruth Finegan. Outside the church were Greek musicians, as well as champagne and canapés for all the guests. Bridesmaids on the day were Kerrie O’Brien and Niamh Thornton. Bestman was Stephen Thornton and groomsman was Darren Mitchell. Their little pageboy was Eoighan Thornton Reynolds while Alana Mitchell was flowergirl. The reception was held in the Balcony Hotel which overlooked the sea. A fireworks display as the clock struck midnight was the perfect end to the perfect day!
email your wedding photos to info@essentialdrogheda.com
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Drive
Behind The Wheel
Paul Russell of Ardagh Consultants, Tullyallen
Make: Lexus RX400 H Engine: 3.3 Petrol How much? €74,000 What was your first car and how old were you? Ford Fiesta 957, aged 18 How old where you when you passed your driving test? I was 19 or 20. Unfortunately, I didn’t pass it first time and had to go again but thankfully I passed it second time round. What’s your dream drive and why? Aston Martin DB9. The nicest that has ever been made by anyone. What’s the best car you ever drove? The Audi R8 which I happened to get a spin in
What do you ride now and how long do you have it? I have a lot of bikes now, too many to list. The bike I use everyday is a Honda ST1100A which I purchased new in 1999.
What is your preferred helmet? I like Arai Helmets, and have been wearing them since 1990. I have been to the Arai Test center in Holland and I was very impressed with the capabilities of this product. Other brands I like are AGV and KBC. What kind of protective gear do you wear? I have Rukka textiles at the moment. They were very expensive for what you get. I also
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What’s the worst thing about driving in Drogheda? Slow moving traffic. It’s stop, go, stop, go the whole time. Us men are very impatient drivers! How often do you change your car? Generally every 2 years. I’m due to change my car April this year but I think I’ll hold on to this one for another year. Who is your insurer? FBD. I’ve been with them for years. What’s on your CD player? Thanks to my wife – Michael Buble and Leona Lewis. It also plays DVDs so at the moment it’s the kids DVD – Cars.
of Man TT and the Manx GP! It’s hard to beat. Who is the greatest racer ever? Anyone who races is great. It takes courage and skill to compete at this level. But for me in my era it has to be Joey Dunlop.
What was your first bike and what age were you? My first official bike in 1972, at the age of 16, was a Suzuki 50 Sport. There was only a few of this model locally; it was a great bike and I travelled the country on it.
What bikes would be in your fantasy garage? I would need a new garage to hold all of the bikes that I would like to have. My next planned project is to build a fantasy garage and then win the Lotto to fill it!
thanks to a friend of mine.
with Jimmy Kennedy of Kennedy Motorcycles, Dyer Street
have Wolf Titanium Textiles and Leather Suit. Wolf is a great proven product and is good value for money. Which would you prefer road, track or motocross racing? It has to be road racing, on the edge! Brilliant! What is your favourite race meet? The Isle
What habits of other road users do you find most annoying / dangerous? Nobody is perfect, ignorance is bliss. I try not to let anything or anyone annoy me when I am driving, I just try and stay alive. Would you have any suggestions for the RSA to improve safety for bikers? Safety is a big issue now. The government should have been doing a lot more a long time ago. A lot of valuable money has been wasted over the years. I went and done RoSPA Advanced Training 10 years ago and I renew it every three years . I now hold a RoSPA Silver certificate for 10 years. In my experience, any sort of training with the right professionals has to be a great advantage to help improve safety for bikers, but you need to clock up the miles in the saddle.
KING PRAWN JAL KAMAL:
Food
Spthingsceup Tempt your Valentine with these delicious Indian dishes served up by head chef Kamal Hussein of INDUS, Bryanstown INDUS head chef Kamal Hussein is a strong supporter of local artisan food producers and sources only the best quality ingredients. With more than 20 years experience, chef Kamal heads up a young team of cooks from India, Nepal and Bangladesh. Open six days a week, INDUS serves traditional Indian cuisine with a contemporary twist and the luxury décor is matched with friendly, attentive service. The A La Carte menu changes every quarter and Indian tapas is now being served in the new upstairs Cocktail Lounge and Roof Garden. For further information, visit www.indus.ie
CARROT HALOUA: (Serves 2)
Ingredients: 5 medium organic carrots (finely grated) 125g unsalted butter 1 litre full cream milk Handful sultanas & pistachio nuts
Method: 1. Melt the butter in a pan (again a medium to high heat). 2. Add the carrots and lightly fry 3. In a separate pot, bring the milk to the boil and reduce until it is thick. 36
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(Serves 2)
Ingredients: 4 x King Prawn size U5 2cm fresh ginger (julienne strips) 2 cloves garlic (roughly chopped) 4 x spring onions (roughly chopped) ½ green pepper (thinly sliced) ½ red pepper (thinly sliced) 1 fresh tomato (chopped & deseeded) 1 teaspoon turmeric powder Add more stock if sauce gets 1 teaspoon coriander powder too dry. Substitute with large 1 teaspoon cumin powder tiger prawns, salmon ½ teaspoon chilli powder or rainbow trout. 10ml vegetable oil 150ml coconut milk 150ml natural yogurt ½ cup of fish or vegetable stock
Chef Kamal’s Tip:
Method: 1. Heat the oil in a pan on a medium to high heat. 2. Lightly fry the ginger and garlic until they are light brown. 3. Add the spring onions, peppers, tomato and fry for a further three minutes. 4. Add the spices, stir and fry for a further one minute. 5. Stir in the coconut milk and yogurt. 6. Add the stock and cook for two minutes. 7. Add the king prawns and cover with lid until the prawns change colour. Serve with Pulou rice flavoured with saffron and traditional Indian bread.
Chef Kamal’s Tip:
Buy organic carrots for a sweeter taste. Rice can be substituted for the carrots to make a savoury yet slightly sweet desert.
4. Pour over the carrots and fry to a dry consistency. 5. Stir in the sultanas and nuts. 6. Set aside, when cool, refrigerate for two hours. Serve with seasonal fruits.
Food truth
Rice is the staple food of more than one-half of the world’s population.
Chef Kamal’s Tip:
LAMB CHOPS: (Serves 2)
Ingredients: Rack of Irish lamb (4 pieces) 2cm ginger (finely chopped) 1 green chilli (deseeded) 1 teaspoon garlic & ginger paste 1 tablespoon wine vinegar 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 shot white rum ½ tablespoon crushed black peppercorns 250ml natural yogurt 2 tablespoons fresh coriander (roughly chopped)
Venison or any good cut of meat in season can be substituted for the lamb.
Method:
1. Pre-heat the oven at 180°C. 2. In a bowl mix together the ginger, chilli, garlic and ginger paste. 3. Add the lamb chops and season with salt before setting aside for 10 minutes. 4. In a separate bowl, mix together the vinegar, lemon juice, rum and black pepper and pour over the lamb chops 5. Set aside to marinade for a further 20 minutes. 6. Cover the marinated chops with the natural yogurt and place on a tray in the oven. 7. Cook for approximately 10 to 12 minutes and turn over half way. Serve with a mixed side salad and garnish with fresh coriander.
Did you know?
Saffron, made from the dri ed stamens of cultivated cro cus flowers, is the most expens ive cooking spice.
Hot fact
The colour of a chilli is no indication of its spiciness, but size usually is - the smaller the pepper, the hotter it is.
Drogheda
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‘
Business
Small Talk with Marcella Bannon
What does your current role entail, and when did you take up the position? I took up the position four years ago in January 2006 and my role entails programming, producing, planning, fundraising, HR, finance, managing two buildings and marketing. I also get to meet lots of interesting musicians, artists, theatre practitioners and people in the community which is fantastic.
What do you love most about your job? Where do I start! My first love is programming and producing. It’s brilliant to see your work devised and realised on stage or in the gallery. Also, seeing work (whether it’s music, visual arts, dance, theatre) that makes the hair stand on the back of your neck – it’s magic! Meeting your idols and working with many amazing creative people is a plus too! What are your pet hates at work? Laziness, rude people, procrastination, making budget cuts, egos – and not having time to think!
Director of Droichead Arts Centre What is your greatest professional achievement to date? Eeek… I can’t think of any! How would you describe your work style? Direct (according to my General Manager!), pro-active and collaborative. Who do you most admire in business? There isn’t one person in particular. I admire anyone who can see a niche in the market, and have the vision and drive to develop the idea into a successful sustainable business. Google is a company I admire a lot.
What was your first job and how much did you earn? I worked in a printing factory during my school summer holidays. I can’t remember the wages, probably around £200 a week.
What is the strangest business proposal you’ve ever had? To construct a new Arts Centre Building which would embrace both sides of the Bridge of Peace in the form of a boat? Strange in a good way!
What is the most valuable lesson you have learnt over the years? Keep records, and try not to take things too seriously.
Has the current economic climate changed your spending habits? Yes, it has! I’m now barred from using my credit card.
What was the last thing you ‘googled’? Surfing holidays in Portugal! Do you twit? No, absolutely not – I’ve no patience whatsover for it. Is there any technology you refuse to use? I would have to say iPhones and computer games. What mobile phone do you currently use and what network are you with? Nokia and I’m with Vodafone. Do you have a mantra in life? Life is what you make it. Don’t wait for things to come to you. Where do you see yourself in 10 years? In a warmer climate, part of the year anyway! I’d also like to be working part-time in production or cultural policy, and the rest of the time I’d spend painting. Wishful thinking, I know. Visit www.droichead.com
NEWS Connect 4 Lunch Drogheda & District Chamber are pleased to announce the start of our Connect for Lunch series on February 16th (details of the venue will be on our website www.droghedachamber. com shortly). Graham O’Rourke of MOR Solutions will be giving a talk on E-Commerce and how it can help your business. It’s a chance to ‘meet, eat and get to know!’ 38
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Get nominating Don’t forget to nominate the top women in your life for a ‘Women of Worth’ (W.O.W) award, which is being held on March 4th. This was a fantastic night last year and we look forward to seeing you again this year. Further details and nomination forms on the Drogheda chamber website, www.droghedachamber.com
Run for GOAL Now’s your chance to help put Drogheda on the map! The Boyne 10k Run for GOAL is being held on Sunday, May 3rd and we are looking for all runners (amateurs and serious) to run from the battle of the Boyne site, through the streets of Drogheda and back again to help raise much-needed funds for this worthy charity. More information is available on www.boyne10k.ie, including application forms.
Stockwell Street Theatre Tickets: €20 / €18
Upcoming events at droichead
Thursday, 4th February
Friday, 5th February
Stockwell Street Theatre Tickets: €12 / €15
ALAN SHORTT
PS LOCAL DRAMA GROU
Wednesday, 10th February Stockwell Street Theatre Tickets: €15 / €12
Friday, 12th February
Stockwell Street Theatre Tickets: €20 / €18
ERS DULEEK DRAMA PLAY H 22ND FEB-5TH MARC
GROUP DONORE/ROSNAREE RCH MA H 8TH MARCH-13T
ST.MARYS VARIETY CONCERT Sunday, 14th February
Thursday, 18th February
Stockwell Street Theatre Tickets: €20
Stockwell Street Theatre Tickets: €25
film - stockwell st theatre silver screen / film club Event: Type: Date: Time:
Goodbye Mr Chips Silver Screen Tues 2nd February 2pm
11TH FEB
Event: Type: Date: Time:
Everlasting Moments Film Club Tue 2nd February 8pm
Event: Type: Date: Time:
35 Shots of Rum Film Club Tuesday 9th February 8pm
booking number: 041 9833946 www.droichead.com
Event: Type: Date: Time:
Atonement Silver Screen Tuesday 16th February 2pm
Arts & Culture Neil Delamere
what’s on in
february
Thursday, February 4th, 9pm, Droichead Arts Centre Having seen his photo on his university’s bookmark, star of the Panel and Republic of Telly, Neil Delamere wrote a show about life’s bookmarks – the events that highlight how far we’ve come and how far we’ve left to go. They could be anything, weddings, funerals, charges being dropped, even facing your fears. Time to explore! Tickets €20, www.droichead.com
Niwel Tsumbu’s Song of the Nations
Friday, February 5th, 9pm, Droichead Arts Centre Congolese guitar sensation Niwel Tsumbu and his newest band ‘Song of the Nations’ bring a night of spine-tingling music to Drogheda as part of a nationwide tour. Prepare to be captivated. Tickets €15, www.droichead.com
Bertie Boom Bust
Wednesday, February 10th, 8.30pm, Droichead Arts Centre Alan Shortt, comedian, actor, broadcaster, famous for RTE’s Bullisland, presents Bertie Boom Bust. He takes a satirical look at our country’s last 10 years of Doom to Boom to Bust, and brings all his characters to life – Bertie Ahern, Brian Cowen, Bill Clinton, and many more. Beware of lots of audience participation! Tickets €15, www.droichead.com
Bella’s Flirty Valentine Cabaret
Friday, February 12th, 8.30pm, Droichead Arts Centre Miss Bella A Go Go (Ireland) and Miss Truely Divine (Holland) are sexy, sassy and so ooh la la on stage. Along with a host of others, and accompanied by a full band playing classic jazz, blues and contemporary, they will bring the very best cabaret and burlesque to the Droichead! A great night of adult entertainment is expected and dressing up is advised – think 1920s-1950s style! Tickets €20, www.droichead.com
Frisk Verden
Sunday, February 14th, 9pm, Droichead Arts Centre Frisk Verden is an exciting new quartet assembled by renowned guitarist Mike Nielsen. Mike has collaborated with each of the musicians in different guises and now draws them together for this fresh project, featuring vocalist Ellen Demos, clarinettist Brendan Doyle and drummer Shane O’Donovan. The group play original music composed by Mike Nielsen, which is an eclectic mix of influences from Jazz, Classical, Flamenco, Indian, Rock and African. Ticekts €18, www.droichead.com
Tommy Fleming Friday, February 19th, 8pm, The TLT Ireland’s biggest selling Irish artist in recent years, Tommy Fleming was nominated for Best Irish Male Vocalist in the national Meteor Music Awards 2000 and 2006, and in 2005 he was awarded Best Irish Male Singer by Irish Music Magazine. The flame-haired singer’s concerts are the biggest selling shows in venues throughout the country and these successes have come after 16 years of hard graft. A great night’s entertainment is promised. Tickets €30, www.thetlt.ie
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Play Now Exclusively On
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Play responsibly, over 18’s only
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Duleek Drama Players/Aisteoiri na Boinne present Bernadette Monday, February 22nd – Friday,
March 5th, 8pm, Droichead Arts Centre This is the story of Bernadette Soubirous whose short life-span of 30 years, three months and nine days was to have the greatest impact on Christianity, and left a legacy of hope, both physical and spiritual, which still ignites the passions of countless millions of pilgrims who visit Lourdes every year. For the first time in theatrical history, Michael Ferguson’s script brings the story of Bernadette to the stage. Tickets €15, www.droichead.com
Glambusta
Thursday, February 25th, 8pm, The TLT Set in the cartoon-like world of Glamsville, Glam Busta is a new musical featuring smash hits from 70s glam rock artists such as Bowie, Sweet, Roxy Music, Slade, Hello, Alice Cooper, The Rubettes, Mud and many more! The action begins on the streets of Glamsville where a murderer known simply as Busta has begun terrorising the community. Disguised in a flowing cloak and a colourful studded gimp mask this evil ‘psycho-killer’ has begun murdering women with long black hair, for whom he seems to bear an unseemly grudge. Tickets €27, www.thetlt.ie
Exhibition
The Turning Point by Vivienne Byrne, February 10th-
March 19th, Droichead Arts Centre, Vivenne Byrne is a multi-media artist with an interest in exploring the epheremal quality of time and space. Her work creates spaces for contemplation, reflection and connection with the spiritual dimension through the medium of video and installation. She explores the rhythmic quality of visual music and the hidden or invisible forces at work in the psyche. Admission is free, www.droichead.com
Films @ the Droichead
Tuesday, February 2nd w Goodbye Mr Chips, 2pm ,(1939, 114mins) – Silver Screen (Over 55s free) w Everlasting Moments, 8pm, (2008, 131mins) – Film Club Tuesday, February 9th w 35 Shots of Rum, 8pm, (2009, 108mins) – Film Club (€6 for non-members) Saturday, February 13th w The Philadelphia Story, 4pm, (1940) – Valentine’s Special (€10 including refreshments) w Paris, Je t’aime, 9pm, (2006, 120mins) – Valentine’s Special (€10 including refreshments) Tuesday, February 16th w Atonement, 2pm, (2007, 123mins) – Silver Screen (Over 55s free) w Heart of Fire, 8pm (2008, 92mins)
Mass Office at 24 Laurence St.
(Basement Office) (Beside Laurence’s Gate)
A range of First Holy Communion & Confirmation accessories now available. Missals, Pendants, Cards & Rosettes Opening Hours Monday - Friday (9am - 6pm), Saturday (9am - 1pm)
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Entertainment
EVENT GUIDE 22nd January-31st January Drogheda Pantomime Society-Cinderella,Tickets €15./€10.00 Matinee on both Sundays 24th & 31st Jan 6th February Tommy Tiernan, Sold Out 13th February The Three Tenors, Featuring Drogheda Grammer School Tickets €32.00 19th February Tommy Fleming,Tickets €32.00 25th February Glambusta – Musical,Tickets €27.00 3rd March The High Kings,Tickets €32.00 17th March Gilbert O’Sullivan,Tickets €38.50 7th April Paul Brady,Tickets €38.50 23rd April Gift Grub Live, Sold Out 24th April Gift Grub Live, Sold Out
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
the
punt 51 Fair Street, Drogheda Phone: 041-9847868
Live Music Every Saturday Night Seisiún Every Monday Night Function Room Available 42
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The Mariner 6 North Quay, Drogheda Tel: 041 9837401
Food served from 10am - 5pm Monday - Saturday Parties catered for on request
All Major Sporting Events Live on The Big Screen
Entertainment
McPhails OFF-LICENSE & BAR 8 & 9 Laurence Street, Drogheda
LATE BAR Every Sat in February
Foleys BAR & FOOD
Sat 6th: Catch 22 Sat 13th: Electric Ave nue Sat 20th: Live Music Sat 27th: The Seduce rs BEER GARDEN LIVE MUSIC
Thurs-Mon Every Week
SHOWING ALL MAJOR SPORTING EVENTS
Where Olde World meets New!
Food like your Mother used to make! Lunch Served 12-3pm Mon. - Sun. Evening Menu - Sat. & Sun. 5-8.30pm 48 Trinity Street, Drogheda. Tel: 041 9834891
MOTHER HUGHES
CAFFREY CABS
North Road, Drogheda. Tel: 041 9838059
’S DROGHEDABAR S No.1 SPORT not on!
If
Pool Table l Beer Garden Pizza Menu Available l Free Internet Access Texas Hold’Em Poker Tournament every Fri. 9pm Saturday Special: 10 drinks for 2 people for e30 (available from 5pm for the month of February) Resident DJ every Saturday and Sunday evening Check out our Facebook Quiz Promotion e500 voucher up for grabs!!
Taxis Hackneys 8 to 14 Seater Buses Fully Wheelchair Accessible Buses n
’s it’s not here, it
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24 Hour Service
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Tel: 041 9832244 041 9833502 E Drogheda
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EVENTS Mon 1st Feb
McPhails: Monday Club Market Bar: Gary & Kevin The Punt: Traditional Session
Tues 2nd Feb
Foley’s: Lig Do Scith (Traditional) Droichead Arts Centre: Goodbye Mr. Chips – Silver Screen. 2pm. Tickets: Over 55 free admission; Non-members €6 per screening Droichead Arts Centre: Everlasting Moments Film Club. 8pm Tickets: €6 per screening, Season Ticket €30 Boyne Valley Hotel: Salsa Sensation Classes. 8pm-9pm for Beginners/Improvers
Dates for your diary Tsumbu’s Song of the Nations. Stockwell Street Theatre. Tickets: €12 /€15 McPhails: Live Music dHotel: Roy Taylor Westcourt Hotel: Life Line Screening Company (Blood / Cholesterol Checks etc.) Westcourt Hotel: Glenn Emmets GFC Dinner Dance New Central: Double Take Scotch Hall: Barney Live. 1pm, 3pm and 5pm
Sat 6th Feb
Nolans: Unplugged Session The Pheasant: Fun & Games with Paul Macken New Central: Irish Night La Vida Tapas Bar: Classic Movie Night. No Cover Charge. 8pm
TLT: Tommy Tiernan. Tickets: €27 McPhails: Catch 22. Late Bar dHotel: The Enemies Boyne Valley Hotel: Salsa Sensation. Dress Code: Pink. Doors open at 9pm. Admission €10 La Vida Tapas Bar: Live Music by Jazz Musician Emma-Jane Maher New Central: Country Sound Scotch Hall: Barney Live. 1pm, 3pm and 5pm
Thurs 4th Feb
Sun 7th Feb
Wed 3rd Feb
Droichead Arts Centre: Neil Delamere. Stockwell Street Theatre. Tickets: €20 / €18 Redz: Salsa Dancing Classes. 8pm & 9pm. Book: 087-6206372 McPhails: The Enemies O’Neills: Traditional Session with the Village Folk & Friends Daly’s Donore: Traditional Night with the Full Schilling La Vida Tapas Bar: Introduction Spanish Food & Wine Night. 6 Course tasting plate of Spanish Tapas. Wine tastings by Wines Direct. 8pm. €25 per head. Boyne Valley Hotel: Salsa Sensation Classes. 8pm -9pm for Beginners/Improvers 9pm10pm for Intermediates. Salsa Club from 10pm. Class: €10, Class + Club:€10, Club: €5
Fri 5th Feb
Droichead Arts Centre: Niwel 44
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GAA Grounds: Allianz National League Louth v Wexford dHotel: Killian Trad Band Scotch Hall: Barney Live. 1pm, 3pm and 5pm
Mon 8th Feb
McPhails: Monday Club Market Bar: Gary & Kevin The Punt: Traditional Session
Tue 9th Feb
Foley’s: Lig Do Scith (Traditional) Droichead Arts Centre: 35 Shots of Rum Film Club. Stockwell Street Theatre. Tickets: €6 per screening, Season Ticket €30 Boyne Valley Hotel: Salsa Sensation Classes. 8pm -9pm for Beginners/Improvers
Wed 10th Feb
Nolans: Unplugged Session The Pheasant: Fun & Games
with Paul Macken New Central: Irish Night La Vida Tapas Bar: Classic Movie Night. No Cover Charge. 8pm Droichead Arts Centre: Vivenne Byrne – The Turning Point. Runs until Friday 19th March. Stockwell Street Gallery. Tickets: FREE Droichead Arts Centre: Comedy – Alan Shortt in “Bertie Boom Bust”. Stockwell Street Theatre. Tickets:€15 / €12
Thurs 11th Feb
Redz: Salsa Dancing Classes. 8pm & 9pm. Book: 087-6206372 McPhails: The Enemies O’Neills: Traditional Session with the Village Folk & Friends Daly’s Donore: Traditional Night with the Full Schilling Boyne Valley Hotel: Salsa Sensation Classes. 8pm -9pm for Beginners/Improvers 9pm10pm for Intermediates. Salsa Club from 10pm. Class: €10, Class + Club: €10, Club: €5 Droichead Arts Centre: St. Marys Friends of the Elderly Variety Concert. Stockwell Street Theatre. Tickets: €5
Fri 12th Feb
Droichead Arts Centre: Bella’s Flirty Valentine Cabaret. Stockwell Street Theatre. Tickets: €20 / €18 McPhails: Juicer dHotel: The Enemies New Central: The Biz
Sat 13th Feb
TLT: Three Tenors. Tickets: €32 Highlanes Gallery: Noel Brennan: Five Golden Haemorrhoids. Artists Gallery talk at 1pm. Booking advisable. Droichead Arts Centre: The Philadelphia Story @ 4pm and Paris, Je t’aime @ 9pm. Stockwell Street Theatre. Tickets: €10 Refreshments included dHotel: The Enemies McPhails: Electric Avenue. Late Bar
Fusion Nightclub: The Music of Michael Jackson - Man in the Mirror. Starring Anthony Walker City North Hotel: The 7th annual Valentines Ball in aid of Drogheda ABACAS School for Children with Autism La Vida Tapas Bar: Live Music by Jazz Musician Emma-Jane Maher
Sun 14th Feb
Droichead Arts Centre: Jazz – Frisk Verden. Stockwell Street Theatre. Tickets: €20 dHotel: Trad Session with The Killian Trad Band from 6pm
Mon 15th Feb
McPhails: Monday Club Wescourt Hotel: Keith McDonald and the Showband Show Market Bar: Gary & Kevin The Punt: Traditional Session
Tues 16th Feb
Foley’s: Lig Do Scith (Traditional) dHotel: Gourmet Pancakes for €5 from 10am – 3pm in aid of the Gary Kelly Cancer Support Centre Boyne Valley Hotel: Salsa Sensation Classes. 8pm -9pm for Beginners/Improvers Droichead Arts Centre: Heath of Fire – Film Club and Atonement – Silver Screen. Stockwell Street Theatre. Tickets: €6 per screening, Season ticket €30
Wed 17th Feb
Nolans: Unplugged Session The Pheasant: Fun & Games with Paul Macken New Central: Irish Night La Vida Tapas Bar: Classic Movie Night. No Cover Charge. 8pm
Thurs 18th Feb Droichead Arts Centre: Ardal O’Hanlon. Stockwell Street
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.
email your event details to info@essentialdrogheda.com
Theatre. Tickets: €25 Redz: Salsa Dancing Classes. 8pm & 9pm. Book: 087-6206372 McPhails: The Enemies O’Neills: Traditional Session with the Village Folk & Friends Daly’s Donore: Traditional Night with the Full Schilling Glenside Hotel: Wedding Fayre Boyne Valley Hotel: Salsa Sensation Classes. 8pm -9pm for Beginners/Improvers 9pm-10pm for Intermediates. Salsa Club from 10pm. Class: €10, Class + Club: €10, Club: €5
Fri 19th Feb TLT: Tommy Fleming. Tickets: €32 Droichead Arts Centre: The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui. Stockwell Street Theatre. Tickets: €15 / €12 dHotel: Roy Taylor McPhails: Horizon New Central: Spotlight
Sat 20th Feb
McPhails: Live Music & Late Bar dHotel: The Enemies Westcourt Hotel: Electric Avenue in aid of Drogheda Hospice Homecare Boyne Valley Hotel: Genesis Valentines Party. Free Wine & Chocolate Reception La Vida Tapas Bar: Live Music by Jazz Musician Emma-Jane Maher New Central: Rose GAA Grounds: Leinster Under 21 Championship Louth v Wexford
Sun 21st Feb
dHotel: Killian Trad Band
Mon 22nd Feb
Market Bar: Gary & Kevin The Punt: Traditional Session Droichead Arts Centre: Bernadette. Stockwell Street Theatre. Tickets €15
Boyne Valley Hotel: Salsa Sensation Classes. 8pm -9pm for Beginners/Improvers
Wed 24th Feb
Nolans: Unplugged Session The Pheasant: Fun & Games with Paul Macken New Central: Irish Night La Vida Tapas Bar: Classic Movie Night. No Cover Charge. 8pm
Thurs 25th Feb TLT: Glambusta – A 70’s glam rock musical. Tickets: €27 Redz: Salsa Dancing Classes. 8pm & 9pm. Book: 087-6206372 McPhails: The Enemies O’Neills: Traditional Session with the Village Folk & Friends Daly’s Donore: Traditional Night with the Full Schilling D’Vine: French Food & Wine Night - €35 Boyne Valley Hotel: Salsa Sensation Classes. 8pm -9pm for Beginners/Improvers 9pm-10pm for Intermediates. Salsa Club from 10pm. Class: €10, Class + Club: €10, Club: €5
Are You In It?
Carmel Riggs, Essential Editor, Morocco holiday winner Karen Somerville and Sandra Finegan of Globe Travel
Congratulations go out to Karen Somerville, from Ballsgrove, Drogheda who is off to sunnier climes! The hairdresser is the lucky winner of our Globe Travel/ Sunway holiday to Agadir in Morroco. ‘I couldn’t believe it when I got the call,’ she says. ‘You’d think I had won the lottery – I
was telling everyone! When I came off the phone, my heart was racing with excitement.’ Karen’s boyfriend Mark Serridge will be accompanying her to Morocco. ‘I’m really looking forward to it,’ she adds. ‘I’ve never been to Morocco which makes it even more special.’
Fri 26th Feb
McPhails: Electric Lemon dHotel: Taboo New Central: Peter Sheridan
Sat 27th Feb
McPhails: Seducers. Late Bar dHotel: Taboo New Central: Nash La Vida Tapas Bar: Live Music by Jazz Musician Emma-Jane Maher Our Ladys, Greenhills: Cross Border Karate Competition
Sun 28th Feb
Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre, Oldbridge: Ras na hEireann 2010. The event commences at 12 noon with the juvenile and junior races Foley’s: Lig Do Scith (Traditional) dHotel: Killian Trad Band
Tues 23rd Feb
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Competition Winners
dHotel manager Rory Scott, representing the ghotel, competition winner Teresina Bell and Carmel Riggs, Essential Editor
Teresina Bell’s luck finally paid off when she learned she had won a midweek break in the ghotel, Galway. The Rathmullan Park lass is always entering competitions but that’s where it ends – until now!
She says: ‘I was thrilled when I heard I had won. I’ve been to Galway before – I love it and I can’t wait to go back.’ It remains a mystery though who will be joining Teresina in the g! ‘I still haven’t decided,’ she laughs.
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interview
The Best of
Everything
Louth Senior Football Manager
Peter Fitzpatrick Best thing about your new role: Being able to give something back to the GAA. Over the years, they’ve been very good to me; I was a player for over 15 years and managed a minor team all the way up so it’s nice to finally give something back.
made over that time has been enormous and I’m still in contact with them today.
Best drink:
You’ve probably guessed I’m a Best All-Ireland final: Kerry v Tyrone 2008. pioneer! I like It was the to drink Green first close Tea as I find final in 10 it fantastic for years – it cleansing out the Best thing about representing the wee went to the system. county: last kick of Wearing the the ball. Best hobby: Playing golf in Dundalk Golf red jersey and Club with Martin Farrelly, the former Louth at the end of Best advice captain, Oliver McDermot, my former the day I’m you ever received: ‘No pain, no gain!’ by bank manager (he’s retired) and Shane from Louth a fella called Paddy Dixon in Clan na Gael McGuinness. I go to Felda Gym in Dundalk and I’m who believed you only get what you put in. about four or five times a week, either at 6am proud! in the morning or on my way home in the Best childhood memory: Playing underage Best Louth football with the Clan na Gael. In those days, evening. player ever: growing up in Dundalk, the coaches Best read: Micheal’s Gerry Farrell, Cooley Jim Ryan and Paddy Dixon would pick GAA Odyssey by Micheal goalkeeper. He played you up at your house, take you to the O’Muircheartaigh. It’s a from 1978 for about 15 games and feed you afterwards. And if fantastic book about the years and he was picked you were lucky they would buy you a whole history of the GAA – I in the Louth Team of the pair of football boots afterwards. They got it at Christmas and had it Century. were the good old days! read in two days!
Best inter-county rivalry: Meath. Over the last two to three decades we have had very close games and I know a lot of the players on the Meath team which leaves the rivalry that bit closer. But it’s all in good spirit, of course!
Best Louth county final: Clans v Roche 1985. That was my first championship final win with Clan na Gael in Dundalk; I played with them for decades.
Best achievement: Playing for the Louth Senior Football team for over 15 years. The amount of close friends and comrades I’ve 46
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Best way to unwind after a match: Going for a good long walk on the beach with my wife, Ann. It’s a good way to reflect on the game and discover all the mistakes I made.
Best film: Gladiator, starring Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix. No matter how many times I watch it, I always enjoy this picture.
Best hideaway: Bendalmadena, Spain. We have an apartment there and usually go out Best snack: Chicken fillet wrap, with a bar of about three or four times chocolate and washed down with Green Tea. a year. This year though I work in Dublin and I tend to eat on the go football comes first! all the time.
PA RT IES Per Person For all parties held in the month of February.
FOR EVERYONE
Per Person Perfect for Corporate Team Building, Hens or Stag Parties.
✂
VOUCHER VOUCHER
BUY ONE TICKET
GET ONE FREE! THIS OFFER APPLIES TO SKYCLIMB ONLY. VOUCHER VALID UNTIL THE 28TH FEBRUARY 2010.
Funtasia Waterpark, Donore Business Park, Donore Road, Drogheda, Co. Louth. Tel: 041 989 8000. Open 10am - midnight - 7 days a week.
www.funtasia.ie
Daly’s Inn Donore,
Drogheda,
Co.
Meath.
Tel.: 041 9823252 Email: info@dalysofdonore.com
3 miles from the centre of Drogheda
Accommodation | Bar | Restaurant The best carvery lunch in town
from €9.95, noon till 3pm Monday to Saturday
Full á la carte menu available every evening in our bright and comfortable restaurant. Try our juicy 18oz sirloin steak grilled to perfection for the big appetite. Full children’s menu available.
Sunday lunch is still a special treat... Why not join us in Daly’s from noon onwards. Full á la carte and children’s menu available.
Bookings for up to 100 people available for parties, weddings, christenings or any special occasion.
Remembe
We’re only
drive from
r..........
a 5 minute
West Stre
et