January 2011 by Anglo Printers

Essential Drogheda’s FREE Social, Entertainment & Lifestyle Magazine

Drogheda

Vol 2. Issue 3. - January 2011

ISSN 2009-2733

pp U e M U e PPiicckk M RMEaEignaezine F FREMEagaz

New Year, New You?

Your love, work and health outlook for 2011 pg 12-13 The get fit zone pg 19 De-cluttering tips pg 22

PLUS!

What’s on in town this January pg 36-37

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

� 041 9838357

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“Are You In It?”

If it happens in Drogheda

it happens in the d

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the d hotel www.thedhotel.com

THURS 20 th JAN Live at the d

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Book a meal for 2 in the month of January in the Viaduct Bar & Grill and receive a bottle of Wine Complimentary.*

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Did you

WEDDINGS

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at the d hotel

The d wants to congratulate you and invite you for a complimentary glass of Cava and sample of canapés with any show around booked in the months of January or February

Wedding Showcase Evening 24th Feb ‘11 from 6-9pm View our Viaduct Suite, Tasters of the Wedding Menu Cava Reception A Variety of Vendors on Show Gifts for first 50 Brides 10% off Weddings when booked and deposit paid on the night.

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Cake stand and cake knife Menu tasting and overnight stay Complimentary Car Parking Discounted accommodation for all guests attending the wedding Complimentary Penthouse Suite Evening buffet and freshly brewed tea or coffee Champagne breakfast on your first morning as Mr & Mrs… Complimentary first anniversary meal and overnight stay Late wedding residents bar 15% discount on rehearsal family dinner 25% discount on post wedding party

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the d hotel SCOTCH HALL, DROGHEDA, CO. LOUTH.

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www.thedhotel.com

This Month in

E Social

E Interiors

6-8 Drogheda’s nightlife in pictures

22 Less Is More De-cluttering tips

E Out & About

E Weddings

11, 20-21 Not-to-be missed events

24-25 Local couples say ‘I do’

E feature

E Tech

12-13 New Year, New You Essential Stars by Sapphire Rose 38 The Best of Everything with Paul Henry, producer of this year’s Pantomime

26 The 3D Experience

E Real Life 4 Can’t Get Through The Month Without… 10 Magic Moments highlights of 2010

E Fashion

E Drive 27 Behind The Wheel & Bike Torque 28 Go Like the Wind Renault’s new roadster is test driven

E Business 30 Small talk with Mark Kierans of Kierans Brothers on West Street

E Food & Wine

E Beauty

32-33 Simply D’Vine Recipes from D’Vine Wine Bar&Restaurant

E Health & Fitness 19 You CAN do it How to get your body and mind working together

Drogheda

editor’s letter s another year gets off to a new

14 Knit Picks E’s favourite woolies 16 Cream of the Crop Must-have items for your make-up bag

Essential

E Arts & Culture 34 What’s on in town 36-37 Event Guide Dates for your diary

start I can’t help but reflect on the previous 12 months. For many 2010 was a year to forget but for others it brought adventure and excitement (see page 10). It wouldn’t be January without making resolutions – and if yours is to get your body fighting fit turn to page 19 where Integral fitness instructor Matthew Stevens shows how to get longterm results. Get the lowdown on Fuji’s newest 3D camera on page 26, while Renault’s new roadster, the Wind, gets a test drive on page 28. As the Drogheda Panto prepares to hit the TLT stage, E catches up with its producer and director Paul Henry on page 38. Happy New Year, everyone!

Carmel Riggs Editor

Don’t Miss Our Next Issue – Out January 28th On the Cover: Gloves were off for Joanna Fitzpatrick at the Drogheda Chamber White Collar Boxing, which took place in the Barbican Centre recently. Our Premises We are Locally based in Drogheda Town. We have a national footprint with customers all over Ireland. Recognising that our customers are busy people we offer a door-to-door service, avoiding unnecessary travel time or meetings. Our staff are a friendly, professional team with many years of experience in the print trade. We offer a Drogheda based one-stop-shop for all your print requirements.

Mell Industrial Estate, Drogheda, County Louth T: 041 983 5000 F: 041 983 5485 E: info@angloprinters.ie W: www.angloprinters.ie

The presses we use to produce your litho print are state-of-the-art, 5 colour Komori presses. We use the latest CTP (Computer to plate) technology to ensure premium quality print. We use Xerox production engines for digital print. Deadlines are something we guarantee as standard. Whatever date we agree with you for delivery of print will be honoured. We understand the damaging effect late print can have on marketing campaigns, publicity distribution & mailouts. Our print products include the following features as standard:

FREE: High resolution digital proofs

Packing for despatch to multiple drops Artwork collection and print delivery (within Ireland)

Locall

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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: Loraine McNamee Tel: 041-9830297 e: info@essentialdrogheda.com Advertising Sales: Derek Moroney Mob: 086-3536139 e: ads@essentialdrogheda.com Design & Layout: Jessica Bridgeman, Aisling Murphy, Anglo Printers Photographer: Jimmy Weldon Mob: 086-8339022 Photo Contributors: Eric Ronan, Kevin Victory, Mike Patterson, Shane Cowley Contributors: Emma Woods, Niamh Carter, Terry Collins, Paddy Comyn, Seamus Daly, Sapphire Rose Published by: Essential Drogheda Publications Ltd. Printed by: Anglo Printers Ltd. Lo-Call 1890 624 624

Can’t get through the month without . . . Lots of drama Signing your kids up for drama classes. Where else would it be acceptable to pretend to be a fish or a monster or a silly grown up other than at drama class? If you’d like your child to build confidence and learn new skills in a playful way then drama on Thursdays is the place to be! A sixweek course is beginning in Barlow House on Thursday, January 13th from 5.15pm-6.15pm. €30 for 6 weeks, www.droichead.com

G i G r e k a Don B h mate gig wit Enjoy an inti and t is ar it u g es renowned Blu er. layer Don Bak les harmonica p oy B performs in ead The musician ah January 27th , Pub, Slane on m u b of his new al of the release e h T next month. Jealoustown, Association rone Disease eu N or ot M Boyles or Irish , on sale from gig is in aid of 20 € e ar s et d tick (IMNDA) an 3. 93 73 call 086-30

AntiGravity Yoga

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 Become a fan of Essential on

E Drogheda

Learning to fly! Ireland’s first Antigravity Yoga studio opens its doors in Drogheda on January 10th under the helm of Labfitness instructor Laura Armada. If this new fitness craze is good enough for Pink and Mariah Carey then it would be madness not to try it out! To secure your place see the AGY timetable at www.antigravityyogaireland.com

Carmel Riggs selects the best of what January has to offer

Bowling blitz

Perfecting the art of bowling! Througho ut January, Funtasia W aterpark is running a bowling blitz with some good package deals available. On Tues days from 6-11pm ladies over 18 can bowl fo r free, while on Mon days to Thursdays, from 12noon to 11pm gr oups can play for one ho ur and get a second hour free. For more savi ngs visit www.funt asia.ie

Local designs

Supporting local craft makers! Louth Craftmark, situated at the Highlanes Gallery, boasts an inspiring range of hand crafted products made by designers working and living in Co. Louth. From fashion accessories to decorative ceramics and wall hangings for your interior this non-profit store offers something original to suit all budgets. Visit the online store at www.louthcraftmark.com

Social 2

3 5

The Party: Goldfrapp The Place: The TLT The People: 1 Joe Burke and Patricia Estrage 2

Maja Todorovie, Daniel Nolan and Belma Vareslija 3 Aisling Leonard and Mitzi Miculinice 4 Sagan Madhavan and Jenny Meegan 5 Joey and Sarah Edwards

3 2

The Party: Michelle Kinsellaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 40th Birthday The Place: Harryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bar The People: 1 Patricia and Michelle Kinsella 2 Helane Vander Poel and Catriona Henry 3 Maeveen Carroll and Lisa Levins

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The Party: Customer Evening The Place: Anu Therapie The People: 1 Sharon Gilmartin, Ken Martin and Marie Walsh 2 Karen Kierans and Karen Vecchio 3 Ruth and Margaret Burke 4 Sarah Healy and Siobhan Everard

Check out previous issues online @ www.essentialdrogheda.com

2 11

The Party:Christmas Party Night The Place: D’Vine Restaurant The People: 1 Aishling

Phelan, Mandy Lackin and Aveige Roche 2 Deirdre Murphy, Siobhan Hanratty, Sarah and Vivenne Burke 3 Colette McCastrey, Ursula Brennan and Denise Woods

The Party: New Year's Eve Celebrations The Place: The dHotel The People: 1 Leah Kavanagh and Asa Holmstroms 2 Damien Kildea

and Aoife Sulley with Lesley McFetridge and Dessie Beaver 3 Liz Coyle with Lorraine Reynolds and Niamh Walsh

1 4

The Party: Network Louth Christmas Dinner The Place: Scholar’s Hotel The People: 1 Network Louth President Check out previous issues online @ www.essentialdrogheda.com

Louisa Maher with Anne Heshan President Network Ireland 2 Edel Tuite with Ann Marie Horgan 3 Pat McCloughan, Orlaith Carmody and Graham O’Rourke 4 Andrea Smith and Patricia McGowan

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The Party: Sonia Marini's 21st The Place: Five Oaks The People:

Social

1 Ciara Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Shea and Kelly Marie Campbell 2 Vanessa Kierans, Sonia Marini and Mary Murphy 3 Catherina Borza Everitt and Sabrina Borza Palombo

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The Party: Christmas Party Night The Place: The dHotel The People: 1 Marese Clarke, Rebecca Sexton and Susan McDonagh 2 Karen Hogan, Siobhan Mitchell, Annmarie Craig and Grainne Carroll 3 Niamh Cullen, Marie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donnell and Niamh Connolly

E Drogheda

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s t n e m o m c i g Ma Real Life

Caitlin Reygan,

Julianstown ‘M was highlight of 2010 aces when I got my br r fo off. I’d had them it st two years so at fir ve ha t was weird to no dn’t di es braces. The brac t bu y dl affect me too ba ve ha to I’m really happy !’ em th seen the back of

forget but for er th ra ’d ey th ar and e ye For some it was th onths were filled with excitement 10… m r 20 others the last 12 rans finds out your highlights fo Kie adventure. Katie

illy, Colm Re ‘Going to

erunder Robert Cassidy, Wat

Bettystown Electric Picnic, I went with my girlfriend and we both had an amazing weekend, the craic was ninety! We also went to Paris at Halloween.’

ar. I qualified as a ‘2010 was a quiet ye at was a highlight. Garda reserve so th me a Garda this I’m hoping to beco light for 2010 year. Another high a Drogheda would be working as y enjoyable.’ coast guard, it’s reall

Podge Leddy,

Glenmore Drive ‘2010 was a brilliant year. I’d so many highlights, passing my leaving cert, my grad, my sixth year party and getting the course I wanted in college. I was so happy when I got my course!’

Essential Drogheda

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Leona Collins, Julianstown

‘I had a pretty big career change last year; after working as a hair stylist in Dublin for 12 years I’ve moved to a new hair salon in Drogheda. I love working here there’s such a sense of community and it’s definitely a buzzing town.’

CHANGE

IS ON THE WAY TO LOUTH & EAST MEATH

Jobs, Fairness, Labour.

Co to

Cllr.Gerald Nash

Contact Derek on 086 353 6139 10

E Drogheda

ged_essential_drogheda.indd 1

16/12/2010 23:46

Out & about

Bru

1 Fiona McHale, Sharon Wilson and Jill Kenny 2 Sylvia Smietana, Asia Morqwska and Tanya Reilly 3 Anita Bartley, Caroline Kearney and Jayne and Pamela Curran 4 Victoria Thornton and Sylvia Rqwska

3 4

Scholars

1 Sean Kilroy and Ali McLoughlin 2 Elaine Murray with Jack Copey and Jennifer Cooney 3 Kevin Bissett and Rachel Kearney 4 Courtney Hayes and Gary Morgan

La Spa Therapie, Customer Evening

1 Celine and Carol Rankin 2 Sandra Lynch and Michelle Ryan 3 Breda McGill and Kim Denis 4 Katie Everitt and Jessie Brannigan

E Drogheda

ssential

stars

CAPRICORN 22 DEC-20 JAN LOVE: 5 Swords & Page Cups You may need to swallow your pride and admit your limitations from the past year. As 2011 dawns you enter a period of new emotional development, sensitivity and maturity. CAREER: 5 Wands & The Hermit This year brings healthy competition. You have learnt a lot from the past 12 months and will overcome any obstacles and strife. Creative energy is abundant. HEALTH: Page of Pentacles (R) & The Hanged Man A minor health problem may persist this month. Why not take a different viewpoint in dealing with it. Is communication a problem?

AQUARIUS 21 JAN-19 FEB LOVE: Page of Wands & 2 of Swords 2011 brings an abundance of energy, optimism and enthusiasm after a period of indecision. Exhilarating sexual experiences are in the offing. CAREER: King of Pentacles & Page of Pentacles Present and future security is a priority now. From small beginnings progress will be slow but sure; real estate and property matters will go well. HEALTH: Moon (R) & 3 of Swords 2010 was a troubling time but you need to move forward. It appears that stress is your biggest health threat which is why it’s important to find new ways of managing it and heal your mind. A trip to the dentist would be wise.

The answers are in the cards as local psychic & fortune teller Sapphire Rose reveals your love, work and health outlook for 2011

approval from others and you feel a sense of accomplishment for a job well done. A promotion is possible. HEALTH: High Priestess (R) & Ace of Wands Listen to your inner voice – the focus is on sexual energy so connect with your inner goddess and unleash your adventurous side!

ARIES 21 MAR-20 APR

LOVE: 10 of Swords & Queen of Wands 2011 heralds an end to the attacks and slander. Your self-esteem is low but your unique world view and ability to do the PISCES 20 FEB-20 MAR unexpected can save the day. LOVE: 3 of Swords (R) & 2 of Swords WORK: King of Swords (R) & The Chariot The heartache is ending and you have learnt You may be suffering an injustice. Your valuable lessons. You must face what you strategy for the New Year should be to move really want or feel for 2011 and grab it with forward with determination and a clear sense both hands. But the question is should you of purpose. follow your heart or your head? HEALTH: Knight of Swords & 6 of WORK: King of Swords & 3 of Pentacles Pentacles Your goal for 2011 is to be the A decision you have been awaiting will be fair healthiest you have ever been. Set yourself and impartial. You desire status, recognition or clear, realistic goals; it’s only by getting active

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and thinking positively that you stand a chance of succeeding.

TAURUS 21 APR-21MAY LOVE: Page of Wands (R) & The Moon You probably feel that you are not being taken seriously. Sexual hang-ups may be interfering with your relationship and your fluctuating moods must be confronted. But don’t be ashamed to seek advice. CAREER: Knight of Swords (R) & The Emperor This is not the time to initiate a new project. 2011 shows you becoming your own person as you establish yourself in the world. HEALTH: 2011 looks to be your healthiest year yet; expect healing and renewed vitality.

GEMINI 22 MAY-21 JUNE LOVE: 9 of Wands & 3 of Wands You have been hurt in the past and have therefore assumed a protective posture. You may need to

New Year, New You? of steadfast commitment. Keep positive as loneliness will lead to health problems.

LEO 24 JULY-23AUG LOVE: Ace of Cups (R) & The Chariot Your special someone may be more interested in sex than a long-term commitment. But your strength of will and sense of purpose will enable you to come out on top. WORK: Queen of Swords (R) & Page of Pentacles Someone may be trying to discredit you but fear not as you may soon be presented with an opportunity to make money or engage in a new business venture. HEALTH: Tower (R) & 7 of Cups Shocking and disruptive influences are coming to an end; pick up the pieces and start anew. Don’t be unrealistic however, set a program and stick to it. So what if you fall off the wagon? Simply jump back on the next day!

VIRGO 24 AUG-23 SEPT let go of past relationships. CAREER: 4 of Pentacles (R) & The Emperor Concerns about security, financial or otherwise, preoccupy your mind. Now is the time to act responsibly and organise a structured and stable environment. HEALTH: Strength (R) & Ace of Wands 2011 heralds change and you need to take better care of yourself. You also need to assert your inner strength with conviction to feel empowered and self reliant. This is a time of initiation, invention and creativity.

CANCER 22 JUNE-23 JULY LOVE: 3 of Pentacles (R) & 6 of Wands An excessive concern with upgrading your social status may be blocking genuine relationships with others. Release this, and happiness and love are yours for the taking! CAREER: Knight of Cups (R) & Justice You are in danger of being misled so it would be wise to get sound advice from an impartial third party. Justice will prevail in the end. HEALTH: Knight of Swords & 5 of Pentacles If you set yourself a goal, you are capable

LOVE: Knight of Swords & 2 of Swords A significant man in your life may make an unexpected exit. You must confront issues directly because problems won’t go away if you pretend they don’t exist. CAREER: 7 of Pentacles & 6 of Wands Your finances are taking a turn for the better. 2011 brings triumph and victory and all your hard work will be rewarded. HEALTH: 3 of Wands (R) & The Hierophant Your intentions are good but you must see them through. Remember, talk is cheap; take a traditional step towards a healthier lifestyle by starting slowly and building up your stamina. It’s crucial you keep positive.

LIBRA 24 SEPT-23OCT LOVE: The Sun (R) & King of Cups You may be going through a rough time in relationships; perhaps you feel unloved and underappreciated? But these negative thoughts won’t help! Book a weekend break away, communicate and relight the fire! CAREER: 10 Swords & King of Wands You have suffered some losses. Remember that dawn inevitably follows the dark of night. You

have learnt healthy lessons and are a skilled communicator. This month you will have the opportunity to mix with interesting people. HEALTH: Queen of Cups (R) & The Empress Addictions are your downfall; for good health these must be overcome.

SCORPIO 24 OCT-22 NOV LOVE: Queen of Swords & 2 of Swords Now is the time to stand up for you and be clear about your wants and needs. Your emphasis on cool, rational thought has strangled your emotional expression. You are taking a passive stance of waiting for something new to happen before making a decision. WORK: Queen of Wands & The Lovers Ladies, if you want to have it all, successful career, loving family, beautiful home... this is your year to set about cementing it. Gents, if you want financial success it will come through the support of an excellent mindedwoman. Somehow, you are being put to the test before you can enter the next stage of your development. HEALTH: 2 of Cups & 8 of Cups You are about to discover a healthy balance; losing weight will occur without much thought and stress will be a thing of the past. It will take this month to leave disruptive patterns behind and move positively forwards.

SAGITTARIUS 23 NOV-21 DEC LOVE: Page of Wands & The Emperor 2011 is all about romance for you! Expect an ardent and passionate relationship. Loving words will be written, new sexual experiences on the horizon but be careful not to be overly domineering and possessive. CAREER: Queen of Cups & The Hierophant You are abounding with creativity right now so turn inward to examine your feelings about an important matter. Someone in authority may intercede on your behalf to get you what you want. Be careful though, watch your morals. HEALTH: Page of Pentacles & Queen of Pentacles You have to take care of your physical needs but do this in a practical and conservative manner.

For a private tarot card reading with Sapphire Rose call 085-1618254 Drogheda

Fashion Dress €54, River Island Knit dress €22, Heatons

Steely rib cardi €30, Savida, Dunnes Stores

Knit Picks

Below: Dress €29, top €7, ribbed tights €7, fur boots €39, New Look

Skinny jeans €54, River Island

Get back to basics in comfy Fairisle prints and wool dresses

othing screams comfort this January as much as a cardigan or a cosy knit! Wear a fairisle print with high-waist wide-legged jeans, a thin belt and a high bun for modern day 70’s look or throw it on over skinny jeans and leggings to keep warm and yet look effortlessly chic. Similarly, the wool dress is back this season; teamed with tights and boots you can turn a day time winter classic into an elegant evening number!

14 14Drogheda

Puffy boot €87.50, River Island

Lace boot €27.50, Heatons

Right: Cardigan €25,tunic €18, denim leggings €12, boots €35, Heatons

Essential Guide

to Drogheda’s Best Health & Beauty Services

Drogheda

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Drogheda

Beauty

Having tried and tested lots of beauty products over the years, make-up artist Emma Woods reveals her all-time favourites in this two-part series

Cream A of the

crop

foundations

Flawless! Chanel products go on smooth and aren’t drying (but they also don’t add oil to your already oily skin). A plus is most come with an SPF of at least 15 (a big bonus in moisturisers). At €41, Chanel Teint Innocence Foundation is quite pricey but it is so worth it! Ask a beauty consultant in the Town Centre Pharmacy, West St, for assistance in choosing a colour suitable to your skin type.

s a make-up artist one of the most frequent questions I’m asked is, ‘What product can you just not do without?’ I find this extremely difficult to narrow down to just one or two of each product as I don’t have just one favourite, I have lots! So over the next two issues I will be revealing my all-time favourite make-up buys. Unfortunately, there are a lot of cosmetics that aren’t worth the money spent on them but I can assure you the ones listed here are worth every penny! And the next time you’re searching for a foundation or blusher hopefully this will help you make the right decision...

Usually, I am not a fan of mineral make-up. I find it settles into my fine lines and gives the appearance of enlarged pores, however when I tried Fuschia Mineral Photo Touch Foundation I was really pleasantly surprised. I have used it at many of my make-up parties and I have had an amazing reaction, because it goes on featherlight and it won’t budge, smudge or melt away. Women also love the way it looks on their skin. Because mineral make-up is a love or hate thing, I strongly suggest you try it out first as it may not suit everybody! Available from Fuschia in Scotch Hall, €37.95.

blushers Powder blush is great for all skin types, but best for oily skin as it has no shimmer. Fantastic for anyone looking for long-lasting colour, this would be the densest of the blushes. I adore MAC Margin Blush (€21.41, Brown Thomas), which is dirty peach in colour with a little hint of berry to it. It’s an incredibly flattering colour on a variety of skin tones, and it is by far, one of my favorite everyday blushes.

Beautiful for a fresh face during the day, cream blush is best applied with the fingers. It’s also dense, but let’s your skin show through. Cream blush is particularly suited for dry skin because of its rich, moisturising ingredients. My favourite cream blush has to be MAC Lilicent (€21.41, Brown Thomas). This is a coraly, peachy shade with warm undertones and is easily blended on cheeks for a natural look. My favourite shimmer blush has to be MAC Springsheen Blush (€21.41, Brown Thomas) – a light, coral-peach shimmer shade that works extremely well on warm tones, but it is light enough to be worn by cooler skin tones, too. I love this shade for just a little bit of colour on cheeks without overdoing it.

If you’re going to use a tint blush, blend it fast and blend it well as once it’s set it won’t budge until you wash your face. I suggest patting as opposed to rubbing! I love Benefit’s Benetint; it’s without doubt the best tint on the market and it can be used on the lips also for a daytime rush of blood to the lips. Available in Brown Thomas, €33.50.

Next month, Emma reveals her favourite mascaras and lip glosses

Katie Everitt of La Spa Therapie answers your questions My eyebrows are quite sparse – I have tried tinting and feel I need something else to add definition. What would you suggest? Margaret, Donore I would recommend getting a brow kit. There is a wide range available and they contain everything you need for an instant brow. Rich wax leaves the brows looking lustrous and a water resistant powder provides a soft natural appearance. It also adds colour, dept and highlights. 16

E Drogheda

If you’re going to spend money on beauty products, I usually suggest saving it up for a good foundation. But this inexpensive product is worth a try, Revlon Colour Stay Foundation. If you have oily skin, you might want to skip this product, however. It’s best for women with dry skin. This can be found in Maher’s Chemist, West St, for €17.50.

Got a beauty dilemma?

Email Katie Everitt at info@essentialdrogheda.com with your query

I suffer with my sinus badly this time of year and I have tried a few different treatments to help it but have had no results. Do you know of anything effective I can try? Sinead, Baltray Hopi ear candle is quite effective, it regulates the pressure within the ear and head and is known to help with sinus, headaches, tinnitus and much more. Visit your local spa for further information.

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t i o d N A You C

Health & Fitness

New Don’t let youtrion to Year’s resolu vain... get fit be in gral other words you need to choose a gym Follow Inte ctor that will work alongside you. u fitness instr vens’ tips to get Matthew Ste d body working Love yourself your mind anhat you achieve Whatever form of exercise you choose set yourself some goals. Short term goals are together so t ts you want l more realistic, long term are more exciting. su e r e h t

e’ve all been there before... promised to get fit, to lose some weight and tone up our bodies, but we didn’t follow it through. So what went wrong and what can we do to prevent history repeating itself this New Year? It doesn’t take a genius to work out that to get results you simply need to eat less and move more. Easier said than done I hear you say, but we’ve come up with a few tips to help balance the mind and body so that they are working together as one, making your goals clearer and most importantly achievable...

Most significant body conditioning is done when some important event is drawing closer, for example a woman planning her wedding day. When did we stop becoming a priority for ourselves? Just because we are not planning a wedding, it is sometimes difficult to muster up the motivation to get trim and toned. Well, this will motivate you...with exercise and good healthy eating you will live longer! Your heart is a muscle and enjoys being active. Give it a good work out and enjoy the benefits that go along with it.

throughout the day... • Steer clear of having teas/coffees as they tend to come with a biscuit or three! • Don’t skip meals. • Chew your food properly. • Fibre rich food can help make you feel fuller faster. • Speed up your metabolism by eating five or six small meals a day.

Keep fit at home

There are many DVDs and gym packs you can purchase when you are restricted to If you find yourself making excuses such as, ‘I exercising at home. Providing you have some Do your research can’t go to the gym today because the tumble space and motivation, Keeping fit at home allows you to work off your own schedule. Before you go off and waste money on fitness dryer hasn’t finished its cycle yet...’ then the only person you are clothes and expensive trainers, spend a little free time researching a fitness regime you will fooling is yourself. Make someone aware (like your enjoy doing. Do you like gym equipment, gym buddy, your fitness do you like classes, do you need to find a instructor or your class gym buddy? These are all questions well worth considering before you make a mental instructor). So many people have admitted to wanting commitment to any keep-fit regime. to quit working out but Find a class you enjoy ‘someone’ has made them There are many positive reasons to attend a stay put. It’s not that you class; it is social, fun, and can be a great way genuinely want to give up s at Read our storie rld.ie wo ing m to stay committed. Whether you choose spin, it’s just that it has become m sli www. Join aqua, dancing, weight training or resistance, more difficult or the results aw arm a nd f a class will allow you to be pushed by your aren’t happening quick riendly g ro u p n e a r you today... instructor to do better and by your peers to enough, but whatever the continue when you feel like stopping. There’s reason don’t let it beat you. NEW CONSULTANT nothing quite like healthy competition, but Drogheda MONDAY Examine your Domegans, most importantly find a class you enjoy! Drogheda Donore Road St Vincent de Paul Hall, food habits Tuesday7:30pm 53-54 Trinity Street Find a gym to work Tel: Glenda 0851226371 5:30pm and 7:30pm Like a good work out, food * Opens soon (04/01/2011) * Tel: Gwen 087 6229904 alongside you habits play an important If you’d like to join a gym or a fitness and part in helping us lose THURSDAY WEDNESDAY leisure centre, get someone to join with you Drogheda Grangebellew, weight and become a Boyne Valley Hotel, Drogheda so you can urge each other to do well. In a healthier person. We know Dublin Road Doherty’s Bar gym environment there is always an option to eat little and often, to 5:30pm and 7:30pm 7:30pm Tel: Zuzana 08792 43534 Tel: Michaela 087 1756314 to be assessed to keep track of your fitness drink lots of water and fill levels and abilities. A personalised exercise up on fruit and vegetables, programme and someone keeping an eye but there are also some 01 656 9696 on your progress will ensure you do well. In pointers to remember www.slimmingworld.ie Integral Fitness and Leisure is located at Boyne Business Park, All Offers Valid to 30/11/2010 19 only Drogheda Drogheda. All enquiries to info@ifal.ie or call 041-9802600

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Out & about

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E Drogheda

Interiors

e r o m s i s s Le Dont Let Clutter In The Home Zap Your Energy... Follow Niamh Carter’s Steps To Get Your Feng Shui Back On An Even Keel

ven the thoughts of it would put anyone off but the results are overwhelming. When you walk around your home do you feel relaxed, in control and surrounded by things you love that reflect your life today? If not, then the reality is your home is being taken over by clutter.

Improve the flow of energy in your living room through feng shui Clutter is anything which serves no purpose in your life. Possessions which are clutter include things that you don’t use, don’t know you have, don’t like (yes, we all have some of these, but we still keep them!), can’t find, don’t know how to use, are broken or obsolete, and perhaps stir up bad memories. Clearing out your clutter is the first aspect of feng shui, the ancient Chinese practice of furniture placement and energy flow. Improving the flow of energy (chi) in your home and creating good feng shui is believed to improve different areas of your life,

bringing increased wealth, career success and better health. But when your home is full of clutter, the energy that first comes through the front door will struggle to move smoothly around the rooms. The theory is that the energy keeps encountering piles of junk stored in the hall, hidden behind doors, sofas or crowding surfaces in kids’ bedrooms, the kitchen or bathroom.

If you want to avoid clutter, then follow these simple steps: • Start today! Procrastination is the major obstacle to de-cluttering, so don’t wait get started now. • Target small areas first. • Remember one person’s clutter is another person’s treasure so get the rest of your family involved in sorting out their stuff. • Clear out and move on. Once you dump the rubbish that has been annoying you for months, you will soon notice new exciting things starting to happen. • Once you have de-cluttered and decided what to keep, then it’s time to look at storage. To maintain a clutter free home it is essential that everything has a home, so that it’s easy to find when you go looking for it. • Use the ‘one in, two out’ rule. Whenever you bring in an item, you have to throw away two other items. First you cheat, by throwing

Adequate wardrobe space (left) and simple storage solutions (below) will help alleviate cluttered homes

out two pieces of paper, but soon you will have to move to the big stuff. • Keep a list in your diary labelled ‘Don’t Need It – Don’t Want It’. When you’re out shopping and run across some kind of gadget or other item you crave, note it down on the list. This will slow you down long enough to reconsider. • Be optimistic – remind yourself of all those old sayings that are cliche but true such as ‘Rome wasn’t built in a day’. Do not tell yourself that you’re too far behind to start anything, or that the project is too big for you. Call Niamh for a consultation on 087-6445050 Visit www.niamhcarterdesigns.ie or check out Niamh Carter Designs on

We do:

Interesting Wines from Quality Driven, Passionate Producers, Personally Selected and Imported Directly.

E Drogheda

Friendly – advice and info. Delivery – Just give us a call and we’ll take care of the rest. Gifts selected, wrapped, packaged and shipped. “Find the Love” – Wines open for tasting every Fri/Sat. Party Service – Free glass loan service, unused stock buyback. Private in-store events: customized tastings, food & wine pairing parties. Tasting events at your home, office, club or fundraiser. Consultations and Gift Registry for weddings, parties, events. Wine Courses – learn a little, taste a lot and have fun. Enrolling now.

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Weddings

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Karl McEnteggart weds Wendy Smith Essential’s office administrator Wendy Smith looked radiant when she married the love of her life Karl McEnteggart on September 18th last. The Duleek couple said their vows in St Cianan’s Church – and not even the heavy rainfalls during the day dampened their spirits! The day couldn’t have gone better for Wendy, who wore an ivory pearl gown from The Bridal Studio. She had three bridesmaids by her side including her sister Amanda Smith, her best friend Sharon Sweeney and her sister-in-law Gillian McEnteggart. Karl’s bestman was his younger brother Shane and the groomsmen were his life-long friend Anthony Johnson and Wendy’s brother Kristian Smith. The couple’s children Aaron and Amy had a wonderful day too – and two-year-old Amy even showed off her dancing skills at the reception which was held in the Knightsbrook Hotel in Trim. The bride and groom enjoyed a well-deserved week-long honeymoon in Tenerife. Photos by Mike Patterson

Damien Orange weds Noleen Crosbie Noleen and Damien met each other through friends and nine years later they came together to tie the knot on September 23rd at St Peter and Paul’s Church in Balbriggan. The maid of honor was Jaqueline Guildea, accompanied by Noleen’s sisters Jenny, Becky and Katie as bridesmaids. Damien’s bestman was Darren Guildea and groomsmen were Jake and Garreth Crosbie and Barry Gaffney. The Balbriggan couple celebrated a reception with their guests at the Glenside Hotel in Smithstown, where DJ Mike kept the guests entertained. For their honeymoon the bride and groom travelled across the sea to spend a nice relaxing week in Northampton. Photos by Jimmy Weldon

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Tomás Bannon weds Shiofra Murphy The October Bank Holiday was a weekend to remember for Shiofra Murphy, originally from Matson Lodge, Drogheda. For on October 25th she married her boyfriend of six years, Tomás Bannon from Collon. The bitter cold day began in the Church of Mary Immaculate, Collon followed by a reception in Cabra Castle, Co. Cavan. The bridesmaids were Shiofra’s sister Aisling Murphy and Sinead Gillic, an old friend from her college days. The groomsmen were Tomás’s friends Darren Young and Keith Condon. Their daughter Lucy carried out the duties of flower girl and the pageboy’s roll was filled by Tomás’ nephew Connor Finn. Music on the night was played by the popular band Fifth Avenue. The bridal party’s hair and make-up was completed by Fabulous Salon, Termonfeckin Road. For their honeymoon, the bride and groom spent 13 nights on a breathtaking cruise in Boston and the Caribbean. Photos by Eric Ronan

Ronan Doonan weds Samantha Pentony Originally from Donore, Ronan Doonan and Samantha Pentony had known each other since they were only 12 years old. But it was on October 30th, after three and a half years together, that they finally tied the knot. The ceremony took place in St Mary’s Church in Donore. Samantha had two stunning bridesmaids on the day, her sister Roschenda Pentony and Michelle Fullan. Ronan’s brothers, Cormac and Anthony, fulfilled the duties of bestman and groomsman. Surprising all of the guests, the bride and groom arrived in style at the Glenside Hotel in one of Navan’s finest Kensworth Party Lorries! Entertainment on the night was provided by the fabulous band Clockwise. Having a small child of only 20 months, Samantha and Ronan took time out afterwards in the Knightsbrook Hotel in Trim before returning to their son Cameron. Photos by Kevin Victory

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help you grow your business. Techniques will include new ways of adding income streams to your business, how to network effectively to mutual benefit and how to market virally – even without a budget! In his presentation Brian will draw on the experience of local businesses in the Louth/Meath area who have adapted their businesses to deal with the demands of the current situation. Check him out on www.brianmcivor.com.

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Essential Guide

Drogheda’s to Best Restaurants

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King Street, Drogheda, Co. Louth Tel: 041 9835410 Fax: 041 9877752 www.scholarshotel.com

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! e n i V ’ D y l p m i S food & Wine

nner party? Planning a New Year di ad chef Marco Difiroe of cipes from he These easy-to-prepare re are just the thing to win over your guests… rant D’Vine Winebar & Restau d is equally Winebar & Restaurant It’s no surprise that D’Vine tery of the Year at the on Dyer Street was voted Ea ce Awards recently. The Drogheda Business Excellen owned by Sonia Micalef quirky restaurant which is a nicely dim, relaxing and Damien Leddy boasts in a good mood from atmosphere that will put you

table. The foo the moment you sit at your firoe serving up a menu as good with chef Marco Di e. And then, of course, that is simple yet wholesom ed by style it’s interesting, there’s the wine list: arrang For bookings, informative and well-priced. tel: 041-9800440.

Tartiflette au Reblochon (Serves 2)

butter and the 2 Meanwhile, melt the n-stick frying remaining oil in a large no sugar. Fry over a pan. Add the onions and tes or until dark moderate heat for 15 minu golden. egar. Bring to (Serves 8) 3 Add the wine and vin sly until all the the boil and bubble furiou Ingredients son well and , halved, liquid has evaporated. Sea 1 butternut squash, peeled pped cool. deseeded and roughly cho o squash. Half oil ve oli 4 Stir onions and feta int p 3 tbs o 25.5cm (10in) pped pastry and roll out into tw 2 tsp fresh mint, finely cho tick baking n-s rounds. Put onto two no 25g (1oz) butter ed xture between ely chopp sheets. Divide squash mi 5 medium red onions, fin n) border, then rounds, leaving a 2.5cm (1i 1 tbsb Demerara sugar edges. wine roughly fold up the pastry 75ml (3fl oz) red or white 25-30 for r n ega ove vin 5 Cook tarts in the 2 tsp red or white wine is golden. or en led ris mb minutes until pastry is 400g (14oz) feta cheese, cru dges with we us 6 Serve warm in genero 450g (1lb) puffed pastry cre ter ss, lamb’s a soft-leaf salad, such as wa Method lettuce and rocket. (180C fan), 1 Preheat oven to 200C fresh wine, such into a large Add a drink... try a crisp, gas mark 6. Put the squash Chezelle. 40 . Cook for 35as the French Domaine de roasting tin with 2tbsp oil n stir in mint. minutes or until tender, the Allow to cool.

Squash, Mint & Feta Tart

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Ingredients 1-¾ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (5 or 6 medium-sized ones, all the same size) or waxy boiling potatoes 5 or 6 ounces slab bacon, or salt pork, cut into small cubes 2 tbsp butter 1 medium onion, finely chopped ¼ cup dry white wine or dry Vermouth 6 tbsp heavy cream Salt and pepper to taste, probably at least ½ tsp salt ½ of a 1Ib Reblochon cheese Method 1 Use potatoes that are all the same size so that they will cook evenly. Boil them in their skins for exactly 20 minutes, until they’re just beginning to get tender. Do not overcook! Rinse with cold water to stop the cooking.

THE WORLD WINE TOUR This month SEAMUS DALY from Quintessential Wines takes a journey through Spain to discover some thirst-quenching, good-value tipples

2 While still warm, peel the potatoes with your fingers, then use a large, very sharp knife to cut them into slices. Then cut the slices into rough cubes. 3 While the potatoes are cooking, slice the slab bacon or salt pork into slices about ¼-inch thick. Then cut into lardons about ¼-inch across. 4 Melt the butter in a large sauté pan, then cook the lardons over mediumhigh heat until crisp and golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan. 5 Preheat the oven to 180C, gas mark 4. 6 Cook the onions in the bacon fat over medium heat, stirring often, until wilted and slightly golden. Drain in a strainer, pressing with a spoon to remove as much fat as possible, and leave them there. 7 Pour off the fat in the pan, return the bacon and onions, and add the wine. Cook over high heat until the wine is nearly evaporated. 8 Add the diced potatoes and cook for a minute or so, stirring constantly until all the ingredients are well mixed together.

9 Add the cream and salt and pepper to taste. Try using a little more salt than you might think is necessary, at least ½ teaspoon. Stir all the ingredients together for a minute. 10 Lightly butter the inside of a 10- or 11-inch earthenware baking dish. Add the potato mixture and smooth the surface. 11 Cut the Reblochon in two down across the top so that you have two pieces in the shape of a half-moon. Put one of the pieces away for another use. Use a sharp knife to lightly score the crust of the remaining half-cheese (about every inch, including its side). Then carefully slice horizontally through its centre so that you now have two half-moon pieces. 12 Place the two pieces of cheese crustside-up on top of the potatoes so that they form a circular cheese again. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the centre of the oven for 1 hour. 13 Remove the foil and stir the cheese, including the crust, into the potatoes, mixing well. Cook in the oven until golden brown on top.

Poached Pear and Mulled Wine

`````````

Ingredients 6 ripe pears 1 bottle of red wine Ground cinnamon Ground nutmeg Ground or whole cloves Sugar Vanilla ice-cream

(Serves 6)

Method 1 Bring wine to a simmer. 2 Peal pears, leaving the stem on and add spices and the sugar to the wine. 3 Place pears into the wine and simmer until tender. 4 Serve pear warm with wine in a bowl and a side of vanilla ice-cream.

Spain is a special place to a lot of Irish people as it is where they go for sun, sea and wine. To most people Spanish wine means Rioja, but there are a huge number of other wine regions and styles in Spain. Let’s explore some... The best modern Spanish white wines come from two areas in northern Spain. In Galicia, in northwest Spain, the Albarino grape thrives in this cool wet Atlantic region. These whites have an almost Chablis-like minerality which makes them great with all manner of seafood. Further inland, just south of Vallodolid, the Verdejo grape shines in the area of Rueda. They’re fresh, fruity wines almost like a fuller bodied Sauvignon Blanc, which are fantastic with Paella. Tempranillo is the main red grape in northern Spain and is grown in Rioja, Ribera del Duero and Navarra. The styles can range from the fruity, easy drinking, unoaked ‘Joven’ style to the more medium bodied, moderately oak aged ‘Crianza’ style to the full bodied, structured, long oak aged Reserva or Gran Reserva styles. Garnacha or Grenache is the second grape of northern Spain and can be found in Campo de Borja (good value and very smooth wines) as well as in Priorat where it thrives on the slate soil and is blended with Carinena to produce a long lived, but very pricy, mineral laden essence. South of Madrid, Tempranillo is also prominent in La Mancha – the home of Don Quixote. In south east Spain, the area known as the Levant, is the great value end of Spain where grapes such as Monastrell, Bobal and Cancibel (the local name for Tempranillo) produce huge quantities of juicy, easy drinking red wines. The south of Spain around Malaga and Cadiz is Sherry country. This often disregarded wine is perfect with the local Tapas style food and the region also produces some fantastic sweet wines from Pedro Ximinez and Moscatel. For a really decadent dessert try a sweet PX (Pedro Ximinez) poured over vanilla ice cream. Call in and see us at 9 Dublin Road, Drogheda and let us introduce you to some good value, interesting Spanish wines, call 041 – 9830960 or email sales@ quintessentialwines.ie

E Drogheda

Arts & Culture

n w o t in n o ’s t a h W

Wolfetones Saturday, January 8th,rently

The TL T Theatre & Concert Hall Cur legendary celebrating 48 years on the road, these Ireland’s of one be to inue Dublin balladeers cont past the ing Dur s. ction biggest box office attra ss acro es venu us tigio year they sold out pres US – the and ope Eur d nlan mai Ireland, the UK, and now 2011 promises to be just as successful with plans already in place for a world tour. Tickets €25, www.thetlt.ie

Poetry in Motion, Wednesday, Arts

ExhibitionThen and Now by Brian Hegarty

Wednesday, January 12th-Wednesday, February 16th, 10am-5pm Droichead Arts Centre Born in Dublin, Brian Hegarty has been living in Drogheda for the past nine years. He graduated from the D.I.T College of Art in 1994 and has since exhibited widely both nationally and internationally. He creates collages and sculptures from an archive of collected materials using found objects, printed matter, paint, glue, wood, etc. Free entry

January 26th, 7:30-9:30pm, Droichead ay of Centre Cafe Bar On the last Wednesd g rgin eme l loca from ings read each month e plac take ers writ and s poet ed and establish followed by Sean Nos Singing Session afterwards at 9.30pm. Free entry

Jedward, Monday, January 31st, 8pm, The TL T Concert Hall & Theatre Due to phenomenal demand, Jedward and their trademark quiffs return to the TLT as part of their 2011 Irish tour. Much to the delight of their fans in the north east, the Grimes twins have achieved Triple platinum album sales in Ireland and the fastest selling record of 2010 with the release of their album, Planet Jedward. Expect to hear all the hits from their album, including Ice Ice Baby and Ghostbusters. Tickets €27.50, www.thetlt.ie

E Drogheda

Carpet Theatre Co. presents The Blanch, Saturday, January 22nd,

8.30pm, Droichead Arts Centre Featuring a melting pot of madcap characters, and a fantastic line-up of live music, this fantastical show promises a grotesque and hilarious look at the contemporary suburban shopping experience. Outsize Orlagh is after a designer fit and Enda is shopping for the latest thing, while Jacintha and Dijon shop for free. Security has his eye on everyone, but the economy is crumbling, credit card s are crunching, and everyone’s going out of control. Tickets €15 book in advance, €12 concession,€18 pay at the door, www.droichead.com

Drogheda Pantomime Society presents Aladdin, January 21st-30th, 8pm,

The TL T Concert Hall & Theatre The Drogheda Pantomime’s production of Aladdin promises to be another show of fun packed entertainment for all the family to enjoy. After last year’s successful show where 7,000 people attended the TLT, producer and director Paul Henry promises a spectacular show visually as well as fun, fun, fun with capers from Simon, the Dame and all of the baddies! With a cast of nearly 70 children it promises to have something for all ages. Tickets €10/€15, www.thetlt.ie

Reeling in the Showband Years, Saturday, February 5th, 8pm, The TL T Concert Hall & Theatre The smash hit show of 2010 returns, hosted by Ronan Collins and with a sparkling line up of the Showband stars who really made this magical era! Crystal Swing who have put The Hucklebuck back in the charts, The Conquerors, DJ Curtin from The Kerry Blues Showband, Tommy & Jimmy Swarbrigg, Des Lee from The Miami Showband, Lorraine McDonald or Ronan Collins himself with his Joe Dolan tribute? Go along and relive one of the greatest eras in Irish music! Tickets €25, www.thetlt.ie

Entertainment

BAR & FOOD

A Happy & Healthy New Year to all our Customers Lunch Served 12-3pm Mon. - Sun. Evening Menu - Sat. & Sun. 5-8.30pm. Traditional Music Every Tuesday Night. Outside catering for Parties. NEW

NOW AT FOLEY’S

48 Trinity Street, Drogheda. Tel: 041 9834891

18th January GALA SCREENING OF THE CONTROVERSIAL FIM

11th February

COMEDY

THE PIPE

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When: How much: `16 Adv. Booking

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12th February

MUSIC

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When: 9.00p m How much : `15/12 in advance, more on the Door

BOOK EARLY AND SAVE!

booking number: 041 9833946 Avail of the savings & book www.droichead.com in advance E Drogheda

EVENTS

Dates for

Thurs 6th January

EVENT GUIDE The Wolfetones Sat Jan 8th

Tickets `25.00

Highlanes Gallery: Childrens Art Workshops. These workshops are divided into the following different age groups: 5-8 years, 10.45-1pm & 9-12 years, 2-4pm. Admission is €5 per child Boyne Valley Hotel: Salsa Sensation Classes: Salsa Total Beginners 8-9pm. Salsa Intermediates 9-10pm. Pay as you go only €10. Private classes on request. Contact Frank: 087-0613590 Mc Phails : Tomorrow’s Party Dalys of Donore: Traditional music. Admission is free.

Fri 7th January

Drogheda Panto – ALADDIN Jan 21st – 30th Tickets `10/15

Reelin’ in the Showband Years Sat Feb 5th Tickets `25.00

Barroco Bar: DJ Sean with late bar and concessions provided to Earth Niteclub. Highlanes Gallery: Childrens Art Workshops. Workshop for 13-17 years from 2-4pm provided by Els Borghart and Declan Kelly. d Hotel: Gonzo TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Keith Barry ‘The Asylum’. Tickets €30 Mc Phails: Innuedo Bru Bar & Bistro: Resident DJ Dave

Sat 8th Jan

Friends In Low Places

The Ultimate Garth Brooks Experience

Sat Feb 12th

Tickets `20.00

Des Bishop Thurs Feb 17th Tickets `25.00

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: Sound shop 041 9831078 Cdworld Drogheda 041 9833879 Cdworld Dundalk 042 9352529 City North Hotel 01 6906666 Finlays Ardee 041 6856505 D Hotel 041 9877700 Service and credit card fee’s may apply

Keith Barry - Fri 7th, Barroco Bar: TLT Concert Hall & Theatre Resident DJ Keith with late bar with concessions provided in the bar to Earth Niteclub. d Hotel: The Enemies TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: The Wolfe Tones. Tickets €25 Hogs & Heifers: Juicer Mc Phails: Shaken Edge Bru Bar & Bistro: Resident DJ Dave The Thatch: Roberta, two-piece band

Sunday 9th January

The Thatch: Take Your Pick with Groggy Mac

Mon 10th Jan

Boyne Valley Hotel: Drogheda Toastmasters meet at 8pm. This is a voluntary organisation to assist people in becoming better communicators.

TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Coca-Cola School Stars’ finalists put on a show to raise funds for their schools. 7.30pm start, tickets €10 Mc Phails: Trenchtown Barroco Bar: Resident DJ Sean with late bar with concessions provided to Earth Niteclub Bru Bar & Bistro: Resident DJ Dave

Sat 15th Jan

Hogs & Heifers: Shaken Edge Mc Phails: Electric Avenue with late bar Barroco Bar: Resident DJ Keith with late bar with concessions provided to Earth Niteclub Bru Bar & Bistro: Resident DJ Dave The Thatch: Music with Dawn

Sun 16th Jan

Mc Phails: Orion The Thatch: Take Your Pick with Groggy Mac

Tues 18th Jan

Driochead Arts Centre: Annual Film Club commences with ‘The Pipe’ at 8pm. A film set in the fictional village of Rossport about the local battle against the Shell pipeline. Tickets €8 per screening. Season ticket €36 Foleys: Traditional Irish Music night. Free admission. Boyne Valley Hotel: Salsa Sensation Classes: Salsa Total Beginners 8-9pm. Salsa Intermediates 9-10pm. Pay as you go only €10. Private classes on request. Contact Frank: 087-0613590

Thurs 20th Jan

Boyne Valley Hotel: Salsa Sensation Classes: Salsa Total Beginners 8-9pm. Salsa Intermediates 9-10pm. Pay as you go only €10. Private classes on request. Contact Frank: 087-0613590 Foleys: Traditional Irish Music night. Free admission.

Wed 12th Jan

Stockwell Street Gallery: Then & Now Exhibition by Brian Hegarty 10-5pm. Admission is free Droichead Arts Centre: Drama Classes for

E Drogheda

Fri 14th Jan

Tues 11th Jan

Thurs 13th Jan 36

Children 5.15-6.15pm. €30 for six-week course at Barlow House, West Street. Phone 041-9875140 for bookings. Boyne Valley Hotel: Salsa Sensation Classes: Salsa Total Beginners 8-9pm. Salsa Intermediates 9-10pm. Pay as you go only €10. Private classes on request. Contact Frank: 087-0613590 Mc Phails: The Enemies Dalys of Donore: Traditional music. Admission is Free.

Thurs 20th, dHotel: Jason Byrne

email your event details to info@essentialdrogheda.com

your diary

Are You In It?

Wed 26th Jan

dHotel: Comedian Jason Byrne, tickets €19.50 Dalys of Donore: Traditional music. TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Drogheda Admission is Free. Pantomime Society presents Aladdin. Tickets €10/€15 Thurs 20th, Foleys Bar: Driochead Arts Centre, Cafe Bar: Poetry in Traditional Music Motion from 7.30 – 9.30pm. Sean Nos session follows at 9.30pm

Thurs 27th Jan

Fri 21st Jan

TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Drogheda Pantomime Society presents Aladdin. Tickets €10/€15 McPhails: Rico’s Groove Barroco Bar: Resident DJ Sean with late bar Bru Bar & Bistro: Relax play followed by Resident DJ Dave

Sat 22nd Jan

Droichead Arts Centre: The Blanche by Carpet Theatre Company at 8.30pm. Tickets, book in advance €15, €12 concession, pay at the door €18. Highlanes Gallery: New exhibition of contemporary art provided by Gereon Krebber and his assistant. Hogs & Heifers: Rap Scallion Mc Phails: Nookie – Late Bar TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Drogheda Pantomime Society presents Aladdin. Tickets €10/€15 Barroco Bar: Resident DJ Keith with Late Bar and concessions provided in the bar to Earth Niteclub Bru Bar & Bistro: Resident DJ Dave The Thatch: Stormin Norman

Sun 23rd Jan

Boyne Valley Hotel: The Bridge Club McPhails: Albaquirkey Turkeys TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Drogheda Pantomime Society presents Aladdin. Tickets €10/€15 The Thatch: Take Your Pick with Groggy Mac

Mon 24th Jan

Boyne Valley Hotel: Drogheda Toastmasters meet at 8pm

Tues 25th Jan

Boyne Valley Hotel: Salsa Sensation Classes: Salsa Total Beginners: 8-9pm. Salsa Intermediates: 9-10pm. Pay as you go only €10. Private classes on request. Contact Frank: 087-0613590 TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Drogheda Pantomime Society presents Aladdin. Tickets €10/€15 Droichead Arts Centre: Silver Screen – Hachi - A Dog’s Story at 2pm. Admission is free for over 55s Droichead Arts Centre: The Ballroom at 8pm. Winner of the Audience Award, Best Director and Best Screenplay, 2007 Brasilia Screen Festival. Admission is €8 or season ticket is €36 Foleys: Traditional Irish Music night. Free admission.

TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Drogheda Pantomime Society presents Aladdin. Tickets €10/€15 Boyne Valley Hotel: Salsa Sensation Classes: Salsa Total Beginners: 8-9pm. Salsa Intermediates: 9-10pm. Pay as you go only €10. Private classes on request. Contact Frank: 087-0613590 Boyne Valley Hotel: The Plonkers Wine Club meet last Thursday of each month at 8pm Contact Joe Egan on 086 1722627 for details. McPhails: The Enemies Dalys of Donore: Traditional music. Admission is Free Andersons @ The Highlanes: Drogheda presents "Business After Hours" presented by author Brian McIvar. Tel 041- 9833544 or www. droghedachamber.com for further information.

Fri 28th Jan

The Purple Sessions at The Punt: This month’s acts include Preacher’s Son, Dave Morrisey, Donna Marie and Sean O’Neill. There is a live link of the performers on YouTube, www.purplesessions.com Barroco Bar: Resident DJ Sean with late bar; concessions provided to Earth Niteclub. TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Drogheda Pantomime Society presents Aladdin. Tickets €10/€15 Boyne Valley Hotel: Sports Stars Awards in conjunction with The Drogheda Independent, Coca-Cola and The Boyne Valley Hotel Bru Bar & Bistro: Resident DJ Dave

Sat 29th Jan

McPhails: Catch Twenty Two with late bar Hogs & Heifers: Electric Avenue TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Drogheda Pantomime Society presents Aladdin. Tickets €10/€15 Barroco Bar: Resident DJ Keith with late bar Bru Bar & Bistro: Resident DJ Dave The Thatch: Music with Peter Carroll with a tribute to Elvis Presley

Sun 30th Jan

TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Drogheda Pantomime Society presents Aladdin. Tickets €10/€15 The Thatch: Take Your Pick with Groggy Mac

Mon 31st Jan

TLT Concert Hall & Theatre: Jedward, tickets €27.50

Book Party of 8 or more for Buffet and receive FREE lift home

*must reserve at time of booking - Friday & Saturday Nights Only! T+C Apply* New Price Cut take away menu Available

NEW

Lunch Menu Thursday to Saturday 12:30 to 2:30pm

Choose any 3 combi on 1 plate t 7FH 4QSJOH 3PMM t %FFQ 'SJFE 8PO 5PO t 4QSJOH 3PMM t 4LFXFSFE $IJDLFO 4BUBZ t 4BMU $IJMMJ $IJDLFO t 4[FDIVBO #FFG t ,JOH %P 1SBXOT t #FFG $IJDLFO XJUI (SFFO 1FQQFS Black bean Sauce t 4XFFU 4PVS $IJDLFO t 5BOHP ,JOH 1SBXO t 3PBTU %VDL $BOUPOFTF TUZMF t #FFG PS $IJDLFO $VSSZ Thai Style Fish 4UJS 'SJFE NJYFE 7FH

`10 Per person No Service Charge Come and celebrate the Chinese new year on Feb 5th with live entertainment with D.J. Fallon

DROGHEDA Leisure Park, 1st Floor, Rathmullen Rd

Ph: 041 9835054 www.tangorest.8m.com

Mon 31st, TLT Concert Hall & Theatre

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

The Best of

interview

Everything

with Paul Henry, producer and director of Drogheda Pantomime Society’s production of Aladdin Best panto character: It has to be the Dame! Each year the pantomime always centres round the Dame (the man playing the woman) as the audience loves the banter and the adlibbing that the Dame brings to the show. This year’s Dame is the Widow Twankey, played by Ciaran Leddy who plays a great part. Best baddie over the years: Matt Collins played the baddie role for years; he did a great job and was missed when he left the panto. The late Robbie Tiernan did a terrific job too when he played the Beast and the Giant. This year’s baddie Abanazer is being played by Clive Fitzpatrick – it’s a more dramatic role than the comedy, and something that the actors can get stuck into. Best one-liner: ‘Oh yes he is!’– audience participation is a big thing in the panto, and each year this line gives the actors the opportunity to bring the audience into the show. Best production from the last 60 years: The next one because we are always striving to get better and better! Best thing about this year’s show, Aladdin: The TLT facilities and this is the first year that we will use video projection. Best Parochial Centre memory: There are so many from the last 30 years but I will never forget being on stage for the first time 38

E Drogheda

with the now Simple Simon, John Kirwan. We both started the same year. Also, Ciaran Leddy and the practical jokes he got up to, and me being blamed for them! Everything I know about the panto I learned through Jimmy Fagan – he was such a character but a brilliant producer who everyone had great respect for. I also remember after each show heading over to Clarke’s pub with Joe, Tec and Jimmy where we’d dissect the show and its gags over candlelight! Obviously I was younger back then and was eager to pick up tips from those in the know. Best finale song: ‘Everywhere You Go’ – it’s been our finale song for as long as I can remember and there’s no chance of it ever changing! Best theatre: The TLT , of course – it’s thanks to Tommy Leddy that the Drogheda Pantomime Society has a home again after so many years. I also love to go to the Gaiety in Dublin. Best musical: Dirty Dancing – I saw it in London and I will go again when it comes to Dublin. Compared to other shows I thought it was more in tune with the times. Another favourite is Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Best achievement: Directing and producing the pantomime; you cannot beat the feeling of sneaking into the audience and watch them laughing at something you wrote – priceless!

Best advice: There is always someone worse off than you so lend a hand! Best way to unwind: A glass of wine and a good film. Best thing on my iPod: The Police and any ’80s music to be honest – it’s my guilty pleasure. Best childhood memory: Skating in the O’Raghallaighs every Friday and Sunday afternoon with my friends – we thought we were champion skaters. Best night out: A pre-show meal and a show either in Dublin or Drogheda. Best read: I’m reading Tony Blair’s biography and Che Guevara: A Revolutionary Life by Jon Lee Anderson. Best film: A Knight’s Tale, starring Heath Ledger. Best drink: Freshly ground coffee, I just treated myself to a coffee maker. Mmmmm heaven! Best snack: Natural yogurt with hazelnuts. Best hideaway: Now that would be telling and if I did it wouldn’t be a hideaway!

is showing in The TLT from January 21st30th. For tickets, visit www.thetlt.ie

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Westcourt Hotel, West Street, Drogheda, Co. Louth Phone: 041 98 30965 | E: reservations @westcourt.ie