Some like it hot

Thu, Jun 27, 2013

Mexican food. I had no great love for it as a cuisine until a visit to Wahaca in London a few years back convinced me of its possibilities. Ex-MasterChef winner Thomasina Miers oversees branches of her popular canteen-style eatery throughout London, it won me over with the authentic and flavoursome fare, even though the heat was certainly dialled down for the English palate. In Ireland, we mostly get what passes for Mexican food from a yellow box in the supermarket. When prepared, it often appears on the plate to have already been eaten by someone else. This is not the case at Boojum, the new restaurant on Spanish Parade, here it is all aromatic, fresh, and zesty, a return to its street food roots.

Discover summer bistro delights at The Old Barracks

Thu, Jun 27, 2013

The Old Barracks Pantry and Bakery in Athenry, which has been open now for almost three years, has just extended its opening hours and added a new bistro menu to meet the growing demand for evening fare in Athenry during the summer months.

Lark Rise at Killimor

Thu, Jun 27, 2013

In the mid 1940s a trilogy of semi-autobiographical novels about the English countryside of north-east Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire took Britain by storm. They were written by Flora Thompson, who graphically recalled her childhood, and the many characters in her young life, in Lark Rise (1939), Over to Candleford (1941), and Candleford Green (1943). She perfectly identified the period as a pivotal point in rural history; a time when the quiet, close-knit and peaceful rural culture, governed by the seasons, began a transformation. Agricultural mechanisation, better communications and urban expansion, turned a rural idyll into the homogeneity that we generally have today. The books inspired a recent TV series, and were immensely popular. It reminded a new generation what had been lost.

Salthill Church, a brief history

Thu, Jun 20, 2013

A meeting of the residents of the Salthill area was held in the Pavilion Ballroom in June 1934 for the purposes of considering the necessity of erecting a church in Salthill. They unanimously expressed the urgency of building one to cater for the religious needs of about 300 families representing approximately 400 residents and a large number of summer visitors. At that time there were about 200 families from the Bishop’s Gate to Rockbarton and there was provision made for the building of close on 100 houses.

‘Heading for more schooling’ in Killimor

Thu, Jun 20, 2013

I will go with my father a-ploughing
To the green field by the sea.

Up to fifty per cent off all fashion and accessories in Kilkenny’s end of season sale

Thu, Jun 13, 2013

What better way to kick off the summer than with Kilkenny’s fantastic end of season sale, with all fashion and accessories reduced by up to 50 per cent in store and online. With 10 stores nationwide (including newly opened store in Swords Pavilions Shopping Centre, Dublin) and a convenient online store with nationwide delivery, www.kilkennyshop.com, getting your wardrobe summer-ready could not be easier with Kilkenny’s fantastic collection of top Irish and international labels.

From daywear to occasion wear, Kilkenny has a fabulous selection of clothing to suit women of all styles and shapes. The stunning spring summer ranges from Irish favourites Fee G and Luke Lovely are reduced by 30 per cent, with 40 per cent off Aideen Bodkin, and 50 per cent off the fabulous Caroline Kilkenny collection in Kilkenny shops nationwide. For some international influence, look no further than the chic Fenn Wright Manson range reduced by 30 per cent, Danish favourite Inwear reduced by 30 per cent, or the popular international labels Gustav, Charli and Nougat, all reduced by an amazing 40 per cent.

An offer too good to miss

Thu, Jun 13, 2013

David Martin hairdressing group has just launched the new ghd Dewel collection. Each styler in the collection has a rich metallic finish and they are available in three different colours — amethyst, sapphire, or emerald — and come complete with a matching paddle brush.

Other features include a extra long cord for flexible styling, sleep mode, and universal voltage so you can use your straightener anywhere in the world.

Brighten up your garden with some summer colours

Thu, Jun 13, 2013

The first hint of sunshine sees the Irish spirits lifted, and garden centres take on a new lease of life with people busying themselves buying plants and garden furniture in the hope of some outdoor living this summer.

Ban on MRI scanners averted

Thu, Jun 13, 2013

New legislation will ensure that patients can continue to benefit from MRI scans, according to MEP Marian Harkin.

Ban on MRI scanners averted

Thu, Jun 13, 2013

New legislation will ensure that patients can continue to benefit from MRI scans, according to MEP Marian Harkin.

Lose up to two stone in ten weeks with food, exercise, and metabolism correction

Thu, Jun 13, 2013

There are three keys to a genuine weight loss (real fat loss) plan — diet, exercise, and metabolism correction. All three keys interconnect — one will not work without the other.

Hair dye and your health

Thu, Jun 13, 2013

A number of scientific studies in recent years have linked chemical ingredients in personal care products to adverse health effects. International studies cite the ingredients in hair dyes as contributing to the incidence of certain types of cancer. Sourcing chemical-free hair colour and cosmetics has led Simply Natural, an Irish owned company, to bring Naturigin organic based hair colour to Ireland. It is paraben and ammonia free. Parabens (a preservative linked to breast cancer) are present in most hair colour brands. Ammonia is widely known to thin the hair.

Foster carers needed for children aged eight to 18

Thu, Jun 13, 2013

The HSE is seeking foster carers who can provide stable homes, both short and long term, for young people aged eight to 18 years. Foster carers currently provide care to 1,215 children in the west.

As part of the local health authority’s new recruitment drive it is appealing to the public to consider opening their homes to children in care. The theme of the campaign is “Change a Life, Become a Foster Carer”.

The Claddagh National School

Thu, Jun 13, 2013

An advertisement in the Irish Independent in July 1931 invited tenders from competent builders for the erection and completion of the proposed new St Nicholas’ National School in the Claddagh. When the new school was built it was described as “An attractive rectangular building with a red tile roof made by the Galway Brick and Tile Company”. The outdoor toilets were at the end of the playground.

A visit to Fluntern cemetery

Thu, Jun 13, 2013

On a late afternoon last August, my friend John Hill drove me across the city of Zurich, climbing the suburban heights until we stopped at the gates of Fluntern Cemetery. We walked up the last incline to where, among the trees and billard-table lawns, we saw the Joyces’ grave. There was no mistaking it. Just above the grave is the Giacometti-like sculpture of the writer himself, the work of American artist Milton Hebald. There James Joyce sits, in characteristic pose, deep in conversation, head tilted, one leg resting on the other knee, cigarette poised, his slim cane delicately balanced. Someone once remarked that he held his cane like a musical instrument.

There is a stylish cover up for every occasion

Thu, Jun 06, 2013

Summer occasions and parties are in full swing and most of us are in the lookout for ‘the’ outfit. No outfit is complete without the perfect cover up, and the weather being what it is, it is nearly impossible to get away without a jacket or coat. These are much more than just cover ups — jackets, wraps, capes, or summer coats shape any outfit, give individuality and accentuate the silhouette. Whether you are heading to a family event, a night out in town, or a party, make sure to choose outerwear that will take you anywhere this summer. Opt for interesting pieces in quality fabrics that flatter the shape and stand the test of time.

There is an array of style choices out there, and the jacket is undoubtedly a hit for stylish outerwear. If your wardrobe lacks an elegant jacket for summer occasions then start with a versatile classic piece in a well cut and neutral shade or off-white, black, taupe, or navy. You will not go wrong with a shaped jacket. Hip length or cropped to the waist, it will go well with a dress, or a skirt with top tucked in. French Connection stocks a gorgeous off-white collarless cotton fitted jacket. Cinched at the waist, it can be paired with a metallic belt to add instant glamour. Wear this jacket with a patterned or solid colour dress and aubergine heels. You can also pair it with tailored trousers, peep-toe heels, and a clutch for a night out.

Boojum to bring the taste of Mexico to Galway

Thu, Jun 06, 2013

Boojum, Ireland’s first burrito bar, is preparing its opening party in Galway on Saturday June 8, to bring locals a true taste of Mexico.

Brendan Loughnane Butchers for quality and value

Thu, Jun 06, 2013

Enjoy the best lamb, beef, pork, bacon, and poultry from award winning butcher Brendan Loughnane.

Renzo Gallery Cafe now open for dinner

Thu, Jun 06, 2013

Renzo Gallery Café is an Italian-style café located just off Eyre Square. Situated beside Debenham’s, this coffee bar is now open for dinner on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening from 6pm to 9.30pm.

When you think of Italy, you think coffee. Renzo baristas expertly serve renowned cappuccinos, Americanos, lattes, and espressos. Renzo’s much loved loose-leaf and herbal teas are a favourite for breakfast and afternoon tea.

The Book Shelf...

Thu, Jun 06, 2013

By this time of the year the first salads of the season should well and truly have been pulled and the second lot or subsequent sowing already developing along nicely. No better time then for the salad books to hit the shelves, although this particular ‘gem’ maintains it has a salad for every season.

E-paper

Read this weeks E-paper. Past editions also available from within this weeks digital copy.