Issue 2 - December 2011
2 December 2011
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SEAC O RE
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Merry Christmas
Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data contained in this document is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept and hereby disclaim any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited.
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Features 6
Showroom puts WOW Factor into Bathtime! Your one stop shop for eveything Bathrooms.
8
ETSETH Swansea
10
Gelish Nails
12
Pilates
16
Back to Work
20
Stay safe online
24
Make your own Santa!
26
Kangoo Jumps
27
Spot the difference
Spreading plaster, positivity & goodwill.
New product review
Why is everyone talking about it?
Our yummy mummy here at Core HQ shares her experience of what its like to go back to work after having a baby.
GiaKonda IT advise us on some free software to make the internet a safer place!
If you’re good with scissors try your hand at our make your own santa. We tried it and it is challenging... but worth it!
Bounce your way to fitness!
07918 107746 mike@swanseacore.co.uk www.swanseacore.co.uk
o…
Try your luck at our new competition! The winner will receive a £10 gift voucher from one of our advertisers.
Le t’ sg
Welcome to the second edition of Swansea Core magazine. Firstly I’d like to thank our advertisers for the enthusiastic support we’ve received so far. We’re here to stay and to create something truly useful for the community of Swansea. A quality product that people will use and keep for their reference. As well as providing information on local service providers, we aim to create a magazine that has interesting articles, games, competitions, reviews and much more. We are looking for contributions from the community, so if you have something you would like to communicate, please get in touch. Also if you have any suggestions on what you would like to see in the magazine please get in touch. We also have a new regular feature from Doorstep Living. In this issue they highlight a few small businesses which produce one off handmade items (page 30). Check out Doorstep Living on facebook to keep track of whats hot! To keep ourselves busy we have set to work on our online directory and a Swansea Core app. When you advertise with us you will receive an advert and listing online, free of charge. We will also promote you through social media sites and our friends at Doorstep Living. Submit your advert to us for the January issue by the 20th December. Remember, help local business and trades and spend local! Mike & the team
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December 2011 5
Bathrooms
Find your dream bathroom at Tile Rack & Bathrooms Inc
A new dimension has opened up for tiling and bathrooms in Swansea and South West Wales with the unveiling of an impressive, glass-fronted showroom displaying the wow factor, both outside and in! Newly rebranded Tile Rack & Bathrooms Inc at Unit 12, Cwmdu industrial Estate, off Carmarthen Road, Swansea, marks the latest enterprise of husband and wife team Alun and Jackie who just over seven years ago set out to offer something different in the world of tiles. The seeds of the couple’s success were sown with a no-frills, ‘pile ’em high, sell ‘em cheap’ tile warehouse at Ebeneezer Street, near High Street station and a determination to help customers achieve their dreams. Now their own dream has come true with the creation of an ultra modern tile and bathroom showroom that is an architectural mix of space and light, destined to become a landmark for home improvers. The location, building and array of products might all be new, but one thing remains solidly the same. Alun, Jackie and Brian, who has worked with the couple for four years, are determined to continue providing a service that makes them stand out. “From the start in Ebeneezer Street we struck a chord with customers, both trade and retail. Everyone 6 December 2011
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was supportive and liked the service we provided. Business came in by recommendation and this helped us to maintain steady growth,” said company director Alun. “We have been involved in a number of high profile projects including Morgans Hotel in Swansea and Llandeilo, the Stradey Park Hotel, Llanelli; Oldwalls Holiday Cottages; Gower caravan parks and a number of luxury housing developments.” “Our growth led to the opening of a second premises at Cwmdu and finally a move into the new state when answering an advert
of the art showroom which has allowed us to consolidate operations under one roof and also expand into the quality bathrooms market.” A visit to the Tile Rack & Bathrooms Inc Showroom is a must for anyone planning a tiling or bathroom project as well as developers and builders. Covering 6,000 square feet it houses almost everything the most demanding customer could wish for. Contemporary displays with complimentary tiling show off stunning designer products alongside more classic, traditional, suites, all from leading manufacturers. There is something to satisfy most budgets, whether the quest is for a bath, shower, wet room or cloakroom. Tile Rack & Bathrooms Inc is a distributor for top German manufacturer Duravit, as well as offering quality Rak and Twyfords products. Other top names that feature among the displays are Hansgrohe, Roman, Miller furniture, Apollo furniture and Aqualisa. Alongside its extensive offering of bathroom ceramics are taps from the minimalist to the practical, together with co-ordinated ranges of mirrors and
OFFER terms & conditions apply EXTENDED Until 31st Dec 2011
accessories which can give any bathroom extra appeal. There is also a wide range of storage on display ranging from solid oak to high gloss white. The showroom has an extensive selection of tiles in porcelain, glass and limestone in various sizes ranging from the functional to the futuristic. There are tiles for walls and floors, not just for bathrooms, but kitchens too. They include Villeroy & Boch and Original Style Victorian floor tiles for those wishing to make a bolder statement. Alun and Jackie agree that at Tile Rack & Bathrooms Inc their speciality is working with people and bringing their ideas to fruition. It doesn’t matter whether their project is a modest refurbishment or a major new build, their standard of service is the same. “We listen carefully to what people want and are happy to guide them through their project from start to finish. Our’s is a one stop service where people can buy a complete bathroom including tiles and fittings and have it delivered free locally. We can even connect them with reputable installers if they require. ”We are excited that our new showroom which is open six days a week, with easy
access and parking, has enhanced our appeal in the world of tiles and bathrooms but our quest to provide the same high level of service, both to our old and new customers remains unchanged.” RELAX, REFRESH, REVITALISE with your dream bathroom from Tile Rack & Bathroom Inc.
Where to find us… A4
83
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Unit 12, Cwmdu Ind. Est, Carmarthen Road, Swansea
Open Monday - Saturday
01792 586160
TILE RACK BATHROOMS INC RAK
ceramics
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December 2011 7
Charitable Causes
Spreading plaster,
& goodwill
positivity
ETSETH, is a local project very much on the up,it stands for “Enlarge the spirit, encourage the heart”, and that in itself is something that all of us not only need from time to time, but something we should go out of our way to do for others. The ETSETH project was started by plasterer Jamie Denyer back in January 2009, the reasons behind it were personal heartbreak, emotional stress and financial hardship. As a way of giving back and spreading a little piece of positivity, Jamie offered deserving families the chance to have a room plastered free of charge. Which, in Jamie’s words would bring a new lease of life to a room and create a place where the recipient would feel proud to be in, and where a lot of positive thinking, focusing and assessing could be done. Recipients of the room make overs, have described it as not just a visual or material change, but also benefiting
money ETSETH auctioned off a room make-over to raise l. Schoo eth Elizab n Quee of en for the disabled childr 8 December 2011
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them in a spiritual, emotional and psychological way, to which Jamie has said, “That is mission accomplished, and makes it all worthwhile.” When the project started, the plastering of a room was all it was going to be, but after it had been running for 4 months, other trades started to offer their help and the project is now at a point where it has the ability to completely renovate a room(s) for a deserving person or family. Lots of local businesses have helped ETSETH along the way, from building materials to carpets and blinds, all of which Jamie says, “I’m still humbled by”, as all these donations came at a time when the credit crunch started to really take hold. Jamie said “The courage and confidence that was shown by the businesses, was nothing short of phenomenal.” ETSETH has surprised Jamie at how fast it has grown, and how much recognition it has received. Along with numerous newspaper articles in the ‘Evening Post’, it has also had pieces in ‘The wales on Sunday’ and the ‘Weekly when answering an advert
A few of the charitable projects completed by ETSETH…
ETSETH gave a young boys bedroom a football makeover
ETSETH created a playground for Noah
News’ in Manchester to the delight of all the trades people connected. Along with the articles, Jamie was nominated and won the ‘Good Neighbour’ award at the 2010 ‘Swansea pride awards’ And to cap it off, during January of this year, the ETSETH workforce were filmed by the BBC, for a pilot episode of a programme called ‘Welsh Room Rescue’. So all the projects good work is not going unnoticed, but as Jamie put it, “It’s not the reason why we do it, we were doing this long before the camera’s came, and we’ll be doing it long after they have gone”. (In response to the fact the programme may or may not be made into a full series). In the past, ETSETH has covered a vast array of reasons behind why the projects are deemed deserving. The makeovers that have been done so far, have been for people/ families that have had a child suffering from cancer, young carers, bereaved families, people who had contemplated suicide, victims of domestic violence, victims of physical, mental and sexual abuse, and disabled children, to name but a few. A recent branch off project that Jamie undertook, was to take on 13 long term unemployed youngsters and adults, mentor them in the trades and put it to good use on the projects of deserving people. But Jamie admits that all the above has been both mentally draining, and unbelievably rewarding, which has given him what he calls an, “attitude of gratitude”. This is to be thankful and grateful for what we have got, as opposed to dwelling on what we haven’t got. So the future for the ETSETH project looks rosy, and Jamie says ETSETH’s mission is to, “Change the world one room at a time.” They will carry on, doing what they are doing, no matter what, “As we all possess a talent and a skill, and using it to serve and benefit others is what it’s all about.” He says that anyone can do it, and has even given advice to others on how they can set up similar projects, which is music to his ears. A quote that sums up ETSETH perfectly is one of Sir Winston Churchill’s “We make a living out of what we get, but make a life out of what we give.” Please mention
“We make a living out of what we get, but make a life out of what we give.”
Contact details for ETSETH: www.etseth.co.uk facebook.com/etseth.swansea when answering an advert
December 2011 9
Gelish nails
New Product Review
Having worked in the beauty industry for over ten years, eight of which running a business, it is rare to see a product received onto the market with such excitement and anticipation! With the party season fast approaching I want to take this opportunity to introduce to you the new gel manicure that will change your beauty regime. We have all experienced the frustrations of a manicure with its long drying times and the all too familiar smudging of your nails when you think they are dry. Once you have left the salon it is a common occurrence to see chips and fading after just a day or two caused by everyday chores, which can leave your nail varnish looking dull and tired, and after just a few days it’s time to remove it all and start again. A few months ago I was introduced to the new two week gel manicure. It looks like a nail varnish and goes on like a nail varnish but wears like a gel. The benefits of this is its fast application time of around twenty minutes, it dries instantly once cured under the UV lamp,
10 December 2011
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it does not chip and leaves a high gloss finish which does not dull over time. As my husband says it looks like you’ve had a new manicure everyday and I would have to agree. The two brands that stand out to me are Shellac and Gelish. Both have a large variety of colours with new and exciting colours being added all the time, from traditional reds through to dazzling diamond effects. This product does need to be applied by a professional manicurist or nail technician with prices ranging from £25 - £30. It is also extremely important that you return to your salon to have the gel removed. In my experience false nail users have been easily converted as the effects on their natural nails is a lot kinder with no harsh sanding or scraping which can leave the nails weakened or damaged for months afterwards. If you think it’s too good to be true try it for yourself and I can guarantee you will not be disappointed! by Kerry Jones when answering an advert
ABOVE THE REST
FOR SERVICE AND STANDARDS THAT ALL INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL WORK UNDERTAKEN Phoenix Plastering is a professional plastering company, established in 2001 and bringing over 18 years of experience. Phoenix also offers a decoration side to the business which consists of bespoke themed bedrooms designed totally from start to finish.
SERVICES INCLUDE: Interior rendering Artex removal Exterior rendering Dry lining Coving Artexing Rough casting
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Plasterboarding Themed Bedrooms
Contact us
07823 558027 01792 893449
info@phoenixplastering.com www.phoenixplastering.com 29 Danbryn Road, Gorseinon SA4 4PB Please mention
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December 2011 11
Health & Fitness
Why is everyone
talking
Exercise doesn’t need to be stressful; it can be relaxing but efficient in improving your strength and posture to help prevent back pain. These are just some of the reasons why Pilates has become so popular and why in recent years we have seen such an increase in the opportunities to start Pilates classes. So what’s all the hype about?
What is Pilates? It takes its name from the late Joseph Pilates, who developed exercises that focused on developing Why dobody Physiotherapists the body’s core muscles to improve awareness and posture. These exercises are based on biomechanical principles backed up by medical research. recommend and Mat work Pilates is mainly performed lying on a mat and involves specific controlled strengthening teach Pilates? exercises for the muscles that support your spine from your neck to your pelvis. It uses breathing to coordinate each movement.
How to get started?
Each of the elements of the Pilates method is explained below:
Postural awareness - to help reduce pain from poor postures Effective breathing - to release any tension and stiffness in the body Deep abdominal and pelvic control - to help retrain muscles to prevent or treat low back pain Concentration - to help focus the mind on how the body works Movement coordination, flow and stamina - to teach the body to move more freely and efficiently 12 December 2011
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What is Pilates? Why do Physiotherapists recommend and teach Pilates? Pilates has been accepted and researched to get started? by How Physiotherapists because it is seen as an intelligent form of exercise that is safe for all ages and abilities. Pilates exercises are used clinically by Physiotherapists to help rehabilitate patients with recurring low back pain. Research shows that a first episode of a simple low back pain resolves within 6 weeks. The alarming fact is that 80% of those people who have simple back pain will go on to haveWhat a second episode within 3-12 months. is Pilates? One of the problems thought to contribute to this recurrence is ‘instability’ or weak deep Why do Physiotherapists stabilising muscles also known as core muscles. It is wellrecommend documented that the muscles andtrained in Pilates help to stabilise/support the spinal joints teach Pilates? to help prevent recurrence of back pain.
How to get started? 1 Firstly you should always check
with a qualified health professional before you undertake any new form of exercise. 2 Secondly make sure you do your
research and find a suitably qualified Pilates instructor; it is beneficial to have a Pilates trained Chartered Physiotherapist to get the best of both worlds if you have had or suffer from back problems.
Joseph Pilates was quoted as saying ‘In 10 sessions you will feel the difference, 20 you will see the difference and in 30 you will have a whole new body!’... Why not get started and then you, too, can see why Pilates has become so popular - remember practice makes perfect! Please mention
Did you know…? Joseph H. Pilates designed more than 500 specific exercises using five major pieces of unique apparatus to develop the body uniformly. The Pilates Method can be safely used by pregnant women to learn proper breathing and body alignment, improve concentration, and recover body shape and tone after pregnancy. Because your mind is required to engage with your body to perform the movements correctly, you experience a new awareness of muscle function and control. Pilates can give you flat abs - provided you have a relatively healthy lifestyle Despite some of the rigorous physical manoeuvres/exercises of Pilates, it is not deemed a cardiovascular workout. Most Pilates classes have been adapted to the floor mat and may use equipment such as a ring, band or ball. when answering an advert
December 2011 13
Local Business
We talk to Charlotte from… Recently opened in Mumbles is the small, yet stylish and clean, Mumbles hand & foot studio. The owner Charlotte has a passion for nails after completing a HND in beauty therapy & spa management in Cardiff a few years ago. After working as a beauty educator, visiting various beauty and nail salons, Charlotte wanted to create a nail bar with a difference… We spoke to Charlotte about her new venture and she said, “I wanted to create a place where people could come and enjoy nice surroundings and have their nails done in a really clean salon, without having to spend a fortune. It costs nothing to keep somewhere clean and make sure clients are comfortable, so they shouldn’t have to pay extremely high prices to get that kind of service. The salon is small so people will hopefully get to know me, and wont see a different face every time they come in which is something I believe is important. I use high quality products such as 14 December 2011
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OPI AND Biosculpture gel and am determined to keep updating my skills to offer the best treatments I can!”
Charlotte has created a place where people can come and enjoy nice surroundings to have their nails done in a really clean salon, without having to spend a fortune. when answering an advert
Now Open!
At Mumbles hand & foot studio we can cater for your hand foot and nail care requirements as well as offering some beauty treatments. Pop in to see the newly refurbished space, where we carry out all our treatments using high quality products including biosculpture & OPI, in a clean and comfortable surrounding.
Why not try our brand new treatment...MYscara!! ....A new revolution in semi permanent mascara - this treatment looks like traditional mascara but wont rub off or wash off for up to 6 weeks! ....
Open Tuesday to Sat, late nights available
Otherwise take advantage of our 3 for £30 offer to get you into the party season... choose 3 treatments for £30 from the following list:
or call in to 1b chapel street, Mumbles SA3 4NH
(must be used together except when having wax and tan)
Keep a look out for our Christmas offer starting in Dec. Gift vouchers & products available to purchase.
01792 363 638
Brow wax Brow tint Lash tint Express manicure or pedicure Individual party lashes Full body tan
GUIDE DOGS Coffee Morning
@ Mumbles RFC
All proceeds go to the charity Tuesday 6th December 2011 9am to Noon Free Entry Tea - Coffee - Treats & More For further information please visit mumblesmatters.com/lifestyle Registered Charity in Wales (209617) – www.guidedogs.org.uk
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‘Taylor’ guide dog trained in Mumbles with guide dog puppy ‘Blu e’ when answering an advert
December 2011 15
Real Life
work! Back to
Our yummy mummy here at Core HQ tells us what its been like to go back to work after having a baby. As well as contributing to our magazine, she works in schools throughout the South Wales area… Having a baby is one of the best experiences you could ever imagine… yes ok, its not entirely a wonderful experience all the time! Especially when you are like a zombie at 3.00 a.m, clutching your newborn, whilst wiping the projectile vomit from your hair. Being a parent is a truly wonderful job, but sometimes mums have to go back to work which, as I found, can be a heartbreaking decision. Previous to my children, I was a secondary school teacher and extremely career focused, I worked every hour I could and totally immersed myself in my job. Then I found out I was pregnant… but hey, that was fine… right? I mean the baby wouldn’t cry, would fit into my schedule, would be in nursery and I could get everything done like I always did. I was in for a massive shock…as soon as that little bundle of joy was born, all thoughts of a career flew out of the window. 16 December 2011
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Once those little eyes looked up at me I knew my life was all about her, everything else seemed pale in comparison. So I spent five months enjoying our time together, playing games, visiting family and friends, going to the park, baby clinic, play mate dates etc. But all the time in the back of my mind was the nagging thought I had to go back to work. I tried for as long as I could to ignore this fact, but, as the week before my return date crept nearer, I had to focus on what was going to happen. Now unlike a lot of parents I was lucky in the fact that I had family that offered to help with childcare, so in theory leaving my baby should’ve been easier? Getting ready the night before my first day was a highly traumatic experience, I hated every minute of choosing an outfit, which after having a baby, (as you women out there will know) isn’t an easy thing after you have given birth and when answering an advert
had your stomach stretched to its very limits), packing my bags and organising myself so I didn’t wake the baby before I left for work. The thought of leaving her brought tears to my eyes and the evening before my commence date was filled with emotion and turmoil. All types of thoughts ran through my head….will she settle? I mean, she’s a mummies girl so she won’t settle for anyone else, does everyone know how to feed her? Because she will only take the bottle if you play hairdryer sounds from youtube and jiggle it in a certain way! Will she hate me for leaving her? As you can clearly see, all were excuses on why I should really stay at home! But for myself and my family, not going back to work wasn’t an option. As most of you can probably appreciate, income
to a household is vital… especially when you have two children eating you out of house and home and bursting out of their clothes as a result! So on the morning of my first day at work I took a deep breath got ready, kissed the girls goodbye, got in the car and drove to the office. As soon as I stepped through the door and sat at my desk I was bombarded with work, which distracted me from being upset. At a few points through the day I made a sneaky text or phone call to find out how my baby was, I received text message pictures courtesy of my wonderful mother in law (who may I say is highly understanding and growing accustomed to my neurotic tendencies) and saw that she was actually fine without me and enjoying spending time with her family.
Although going back to work has been a difficult experience it does get better and I want my children to see a positive role model, I also look at it this way… I work hard to spoil my girls and my weekends and holidays are spent embracing every minute of my time with them.
“
The thought of leaving her brought tears to my eyes and the evening before my commence date was filled with emotion and turmoil.
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December 2011 17
Funeral Director Alan James is forward thinking, keenly aware of the way things are changing, recognising that clients are more price conscious and want to create funerals which focus on the life of the person who has died, and in which mourners can participate. Alan is an Elder at his local Baptist church, and the responsibilities which come with that take up a fair amount of his time. Specific Gravity: Alan will conduct funeral in the traditional costume , or he will wear something less formal if you wish. He has a handsome Omega hearse. If you want a less formal vehicle, he has a Vauxhall Omega estate. What’s important? The team’s focus is to give you a bespoke funeral which exactly matches your wishes, beliefs and values. He will work with people of all beliefs and none, and from any ethnic heritage. For Muslims he offers a cotton shroud which approved by Islamic authorities. He leads funerals for those who do not want a minister, but want “something of God in the service.” For those of no belief he can introduce a good Humanist celebrant.
What’s different? This is not a big, traditional funeral director’s which carries out lots of funerals. It is a small business where you will not be just another client. You will be known to everybody who works here, and for this reason you will receive a very personal service. Services: .Alan is very happy to come and see you at home. You can come in and help dress the person who has died. If you would like to care for the person who has died at home, Alan will act as a consultant for you and do just as much as you want. If you want the person who has died to be looked after by a female, that’s fine.
Affordable Funerals We provide a range of funerals, both burial and cremation, that will meet your needs, at a price you can afford. Call Alan or Sian now to talk about an affordable Funeral:
For example we offer a range of cremations:
No Frills Simple Traditional
£1550 £2260 £2750
You could also include ANY of the above in a pre-paid plan.
01792 771232 www.john-edward-funerals.co.uk
An independent family business that has served the community for 60 years 18 December 2011
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pro-plumb Swansea
Domestic Gas Engineering, Heating and Plumbing
Domestic gas service engineer Specialist in boiler breakdowns Fires cookers and water heaters Landlord and home owner gas safety checks Carbon monoxide awareness
Dont leave it to chance call today! If we dont answer leave a message and we guarantee to get back to you the same day
01792 215770 07815 019673 pro-plumb@hotmail.co.uk
Increase your web presence with a FREE online advert! We will also provide links to your website and post your contact information. There is no better vehicle for local advertising!
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ELECTRICIAN Services offered include‌ Re-Wires
Fault finding
Extensions
Kitchen/Bathrooms
Power to garages/gardens
Smoke/heat alarms
Inspection + Testing
Test certs issued on all work
Fuse board up grades Reg no: ELECSA 22165 Please mention
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December 2011 19
Computing
SIMPLE and FREE software to install on your computer if you want a SAFER internet involvement. Remember when you connect to the internet, the internet connects to you and unfortunately almost all computers on the internet are under constant attack. So what’s the good news? Well many companies are trying hard to make the internet a safe place and there is a lot of good free (to home users) software, easily available to make you secure. In the first instance make sure you have installed antivirus software. I recommend Avast (www.avast.com) for this because it has a lot of good features and is very effective. When you download it make sure you don’t accidently download and install Google Chrome, unless of course you want to. One of the nicest features of Avast is that it is easy to scan your computer before it properly starts up, called a boot scan. This can uncover problems that can’t be found by other methods. You could do this say once a week or maybe longer. I also recommend you install a piece of software called Antimalwarebytes (www.antimalwarebytes.org), yes a bit of a mouthful but well worth having. You can use this to scan for all sorts of dodgy software, called malware hence the name. This piece of software can be run once a week to remove the mess a lot of websites leave you with. The final piece of defensive software that I recommend is a firewall. There are many varieties of these, even one 20 December 2011
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from Microsoft, but I recommend you install ZoneAlarm (www.zonealarm.com). Once installed it will ask you whether to allow or deny access to the internet every time a program tries to do that. You may be surprised how many times software on your machine accesses the internet without your permission. It is easy to say NO. There is one more piece of software that is useful and desirable, that is Cleanup (www.stephengould.org). This software will remove all the old files you dont need from your machine. It will probably save you a lot of space if you are a click-a-holic. It will possibly save you time too. If you allow friends to plug USB devices into your machine you should be sure they are as responsible as you. In particular make sure they know where their devices have been and that they regularly scan them for viruses. Just plugging in a hacked device could damage your machine. Well good luck with all this, plenty to do. If you have any worries please call me at GiaKonda IT on 01792422616. when answering an advert
Customer Commitment Quality service Reasonable rates
• IT support and advice • computer courses • web design and hosting • computer sales • workshop repair and on-site maintenance • internet access and printing facilities
01792 422616 wendy@giakonda.com • www.giakonda.com
The Open Centre, 3 Humphrey St, Swansea, SA1 6BG
canprint Create Your Own Art... Create your own canvas or poster from any picture you have. At Canprint we work hard to transform your own photographs in to works of art ready for you to hang on your wall. Prices start from £13.00 and depending on the size of the image uploaded our automatic sizing system will show you all the available sizes that suit your image. Start Uploading Your Photo...You’ll Be Amazed How Easy It Is! Visit our website www.canprint.co Please mention
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December 2011 21
Health & Fitness
getting fit!
Have fun,
Kangoo Jumps is the latest fitness craze in Wales and is brought to you by Ultimate Fitness Cardiff. With just two instructors in the whole of Wales this is the most recent and unique fitness class you must try. I can assure you that once you have tried Kangoo Jumps you will never look back. Coming soon to Swansea! Kangoo Jumps are a safe, low impact rebound sport shoe, providing many great health benefits, for everyone, any age, anywhere, anytime. Usually exercise is boring and painful, Not with Kangoo Jumps: you’ll enjoy every minute you are on them! They are so much fun you’ll forget you’re even exercising. Kangoo Jumps will help you bounce into shape, never has a sport been so enjoyable, safe and easy to learn. Kangoo Jumps are eye-catching and fun, whether you’re out for a run with the girls after work or before a beer with the lads, you’ll have everyone’s attention and for all the right reasons, having fun, looking good and toning up, what more 22 December 2011
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could you ask for? If running isn’t your thing why not take advantage of the high intensity fat burning aerobic dance style classes that Ultimate Fitness Cardiff have to offer, with a one hour workout burning twice as many calories as you would in a regular gym session. Bounce your way into when answering an advert
“A one hour workout burns twice as many calories as you would in a regular gym session!” fitness and you’ll always be feeling the spring in your step. All studies that have been conducted support their many health & fitness benefits. They are safe, comfortable, very stable and easy to use by people of all ages, from 6 to 90+. Kangoo Jumps were originally developed for joggers, to reduce the impact of stress on joints. Whether you are an avid jogger, a serious runner or a casual health-conscious exerciser, you will quickly appreciate the incredible number of benefits that Kangoo Jumps can provide. Joint protection, weight loss, athletic training, endurance and rehabilitation are just a few to mention. Kangoo Jumps reduce impact shock to your ankles, knees, shins, hips, lower back, and spine by up to 80%. They are recommended for sports rehabilitation and can help protect against re-injury of problem areas. Reducing the impact allows these areas to strengthen while your general health improves. But for anyone else looking to jump-start their fitness routine, it’s one way to really burn off Please mention
the calories. With each boot weighing 2.4kg you are rebounding against gravity, you’re burning up to 50% more calories than in normal sport footwear. If you love high-intensity cardio workouts, with some choreographed dance thrown in, Kangoo Jumps is the workout for you, it’s bags more fun than the gym.
Please visit www.ultimatefitnesscardiff.com or contact 07596 058795 to find out where Kangoo Jumps classes are taking place near you. when answering an advert
December 2011 23
Make your own Santa! Have a go at our make your own santa kit! Send us a photo of your Santa for your chance to win a ÂŁ10 gift voucher for Mumbles hair and beauty salon!! Closing date 20th December 2011 Email to mike@swanseacore.co.uk Kids - get an adult to help you cut it out.
feet
24 December 2011
right arm
left arm
Head
body
hat
Sudoku Easy 4 9 8
1
3
5 7 6 4
9
Normal 2 4 3 7 4 6 8 3 8 1 8 6 8
8 1
4
5 2 3 7
9 3 2
8 1
5 7
Hard 2 9 6 9 7
4 5
3 6
1
9
4 2
9 7 8 1
7
1 4 3 8
Answers are on our website www.swanseacore.co.uk December 2011 25
6 1
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Spot the difference!
We hope you enjoy our spot the difference competition. If you can spot up to 10 differences between these photos please send your entry to 10 Pontarddulais Rd., Swansea SA5 4BA. The closing date is 25 January 2012. Chosen at random by our resident toddler, the winner will receive a gift voucher courtesy of one of our advertisers. Good luck!!
Before
After
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December 2011 27
Local Interest
Key
Attractions of
Swansea
Let the city of Swansea sweep you and your loved one away with its beautiful sights and sounds. Swansea is the perfect place for a romantic getaway, where couples can indulge in wide array of delightful places to see and things to do. Fall in love all over again in these exquisite and charming destinations in Swansea. All on your own doorstep!
Historical Sites and Castles The landscape of Swansea is dotted with many fine castles and other historical sites. Take a leap back in time as you explore these places and spend some quality time with your significant other.
1 Swansea Castle - The ruins of this once majestic castle lay in sharp contrast to Oystermouth Castle the busy city roads and modern buildings of Swansea. When evening rolls around, spotlights illuminate this dramatic visual, enticing lovers to take a romantic stroll down the castle’s halls and pathways. Swansea Castle is located near the city centre. 2 Oystermouth Castle - Oystermouth Castle is the Gower Peninsula’s most magnificent castle. Well preserved to date, lovers will find plenty to explore together in Oystermouth Castle, including its historic battlements, towers, and dungeons. Oystermouth Castle can be found in the resort town of Mumbles.
Other historical sites of note are the castles at Oxwich, Pennard, and Weobley, all located in the Gower Peninsula.
Culture and the Arts Couples with a keen interest in culture and the arts can immerse themselves in Swansea’s rich heritage, evident in the city’s theatres, concert halls, museums, and art galleries.
1 Swansea Museum - Founded in 1841, the Swansea Museum is the oldest museum in all of Wales. Send a day browsing through the museum’s extensive collection of treasures and artefacts. Swansea Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday and admission is free. 28 December 2011
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Swansea Museum
2 National Waterfront Museum - The National Waterfront Museum lets you experience the trials and tribulations of the Industrial Revolution through multimedia presentations, interactive displays, and state-of-the devices. One of the newest attractions in Wales, the museum is in Swansea’s Maritime Quarter and is open daily. 3 Dylan Thomas Centre - Swansea is proud to be the birthplace of one of the world’s most influential poets, Dylan Thomas. Examine the life and the poems of Swansea’s celebrated literary son in the Dylan Thomas Centre. The centre is open daily from 10am to 4:30pm.
Dylan Thomas Centre
4 Glynn Vivian Art Gallery - The Glynn Vivian Art Gallery houses select
pieces of Old Masters, artwork from local artists, and a fine collection of Swansea china. Come and admire the amazing works of art Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm.
5 Brangwyn Hall - This main cultural centre is a favourite venue of concerts, award shows, and special ceremonies. Sir Frank Brangwyn’s murals, also collectively known as the British Empire Panels, can be found here. Brangwyn Hall is situated within the Guildhall. The list doesn’t end there. Other places that art-loving couples can visit are the Ceri Richards Art Gallery, the Attic Gallery, and the Egypt Centre. They can also drop in on one of the famous Welsh Male Voice Choirs’ rehearsals and be serenaded by their beautiful singing.
Parks and Gardens Lovers will delight in each other’s company as they walk hand in hand at Swansea’s beautiful parks and gardens. Swansea boasts of some of the best in the UK.
1 Singleton Park - Famous for its botanical gardens, Singleton Park is also host to many other attractions such as a boating lake, a Swiss cottage, and the Swansea University. Singleton Park is in Gower Road and is open every day.
Clyne Gardens
2 Clyne Gardens - Clyne Gardens features a fine selection of exotic flowers and lush plants but it is most famous for its internationally renowned collections of Rhododendrons, Pieris and Enkianthus. Lovers will truly enjoy the serenity of this garden sanctuary. Clyne Gardens is open year round. The best time to visit is in May during the Clyne in Bloom Festival.
3 Plantasia - Plantasia houses thousands of species of plants and flowers, but it is not just about plants. Plantasia is also the place called home by of some of Swansea’s most unusual and exotic animals. This 3-climate hothouse lets couples take pleasure in all that Plantasia has to offer year round, 7 days a week. Other parks and gardens to visit in Swansea are the Cwmdonkin Park, Brynmill Park, and Victoria Park.
Beaches and Leisure Centres With 34 miles of gorgeous coastline, Swansea also has something to offer couples who seek thrills - or a place to spend some time alone together.
1 Oxwich Bay - This is Swansea’s award-winning beach and its golden sands and clear blue waters can attest to that. Both The Guardian and Travel Magazine have given accolades to Oxwich Bay, naming it one of Britain’s Top 10 Sandy Beaches and the Most Beautiful Beach in the UK respectively.
Oxwich Bay
2 LC - Slated to open in early 2008 in Swansea, this multi-million leisure centre is a water park, a spa, a surfing site, a wall climbing venue, and a gym rolled into one. Sure to become a major tourist attraction, couples will have many activities to fill their day in LC. For those who want more, other award-winning Swansea beaches are Rhossili Bay, Llangennith Beach, and Three Cliffs Bay. Some of 2007’s Blue Flag Beaches include Bracelet Bay, Caswell Bay, and Langland Bay, all of which are located in Swansea. Additional outdoor leisure venues to visit in Swansea are the Chocolate Factory and Mumbles Pier. by Susan Ashby
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December 2011 29
Homemade Handmade
Recommends
dudeyboo designs
by
Only on facebook at the moment but our website is being launched in January
We are told daily that it is all economic doom and gloom out there, but here at Doorstep Living Swansea we have noticed a sector that is currently bucking the trend. People from all walks of life are trying out new crafts, everything from jewellery and decorations to unique gifts for the home. What’s even better is that far from just adorning their own homes with loveliness, this new breed of modern artisans are starting to turn a profit. It seems that homemade is most definitely where it’s at right now with programs like C4’s ‘Kirstie’s Homemade Home’ regularly attracting audiences of over 1.6million people. We are shunning the shop bought for the unique qualities that hand-made products have. On the run up to Christmas intricately decorated felt hearts, charming bracelets, and wall hangings with endearing messages are flying out of these cottage industries and into homes across the UK. This phenomenon, that perhaps started
with the desire to give heartfelt gifts or even to make a little money from home, has grown quickly and in no small part thanks to the internet. The use of Facebook, twitter and eBay has allowed crafters to sell internationally and to create a platform to build a following of like minded people easily. Some companies inspired by a popular vintage look recycle old for new but there are plenty out there who are designing items with a modern twist and using personalisation to make products extra special. We have selected a few of our favourite and recommended local crafters so you can see just how good they are for yourselves. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/dslswansea where you can find out all about local craft and produce markets taking place locally too.
Contact Lyndele on 07908 707199 www.dudeyboodesigns.co.uk facebook.com/DudeybooDesigns
Contact Emma on: tel: 07557229403 email: chic-unique@hotmail.co.uk www.facebook.com/chicuniquegifts
Nicola Jones • 07584496764 nicola-ann-jones@hotmail.co.uk www.handmadejewellerybynicola.co.uk
Currently based on Facebook, Twitter and Linkedin, Doorstep Living has over 4500 local friends and followers to whom we regularly promote local news events and businesses.
We are working on our own exciting website which will include local features on; events, businesses, tourist information, days out, job vacancies and car and home sales to name but a few. There will also be the opportunity to pick up some special offers from local businesses too.
www.facebook.com/dslswansea www.twitter.com/dslswansea
Please come and join us and help us spread the word about everything that’s fabulous and local. 30 December 2011
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December 2011 31
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