Bloom Magazine East Belfast July 2015

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EAST BELFAST ISSUE 41 JULY / AUGUST 2015

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Bloom Magazine Belfast

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Moving House?

In today’s property market you need an experienced and proactive solicitor to make sure your transaction runs smoothly. We can help.

Call or email us if you are: • Buying or selling a property • A first time buyer • Buying through Co - Ownership • Re - Mortgaging For a free competitive quotation Call: 028 9045 3449 Email: quote@reidblack.com

Proactive, Professional & Solution-driven Advice 2 Holywood Road Belfast BT4 1NT www.reidblack.com

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CONTENTS July / August 2015

LATEST NEWS ______

BELFAST MUM ______

FROM YOUR LOCAL AREA

BY DONNA BELL

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HOLYWOOD ARCHES

LOCAL EXPERT

LOCAL EXPERT

BACK TO SCHOOL

BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

NATURES WAY

ERIC MERCER

TOP TIPS FOR SUMMER

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

COOKBOOK

WHAT’S ON

BELFAST GIANTS

SECRET DAY SPA

BY DELI MURU

IN EAST BELFAST

PARTNERSHIP WITH BLOOM

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THE BIG PICTURE

MONEY EXPERT

LOCAL EXPERT

PROPERTY BLOOM

FILM NEWS & LISTINGS

JENNIE HAMMOND

REID BLACK

CAIRNS & CO.

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www.bloommagazine.co.uk

Find us: City East Business Centre, 68-72 Newtownards Road, Belfast, Co. Antrim BT4 1GW

Contact: Angela Campbell angela@bloommagazine.co.uk www.bloommagazine.co.uk 07719 104 862

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Connect with us:

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Stephen Sharpe - sharpeart.com Barry McGovern - kubrixdesign.com Nicholson Bass Speedpost NI

Terms & Conditions: Any views expressed within are not necessarily endorsed by Bloom Magazine or WALL Media. Reference to any specific product or service does not constitute or imply its endorsement or recommendation by Bloom Magazine. Links and contacts are provided for user convenience and do not constitute or imply endorsement or recommendation by Bloom Magazine. Any reproduction without permission is prohibited.

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#STRANDTOGETHER As The Strand, Northern Ireland’s oldest cinema and one of its most iconic buildings, heads towards its 80th Anniversary in December this East Belfast landmark is calling on everyone to #StrandTogether to ensure a long-term future for the venue as a vibrant film and arts centre for East Belfast.

The Strand in East Belfast has been providing entertainment, creating employment and boosting the economy since 1935. A jewel of art deco design, it is the only remaining cinema in Northern Ireland from that golden era when, at one time, Belfast boasted over 40 picture palaces. However, the building is in need of refurbishment if it is to play a transformative role in the local area and deliver for East Belfast a much needed cultural and community hub.

Local residents, politicians, businesses, schools and community groups are invited to #StrandTogether and support this important local resource on its journey from the past into the future. Whether volunteering, attending events, making donations or simply sharing stories and pictures from the last 80 years for an anniversary exhibition in December – everyone can be part of what could be an exciting future for entertainment, arts and culture in East Belfast.

The Strand is something of a survivor. When cinema admissions were declining in the 1980s, the Strand operated as a variety theatre for several years attracting top acts of the day such as The Drifters, The Nolans

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and Little and Large. In 1988 the Strand converted to a four-screen multiplex. More recently, the building’s short-term survival was secured when Strand Arts Centre was established as a not-for-profit charity in 2013 to create a community hub that enhances the arts and cultural offer for all communities in East Belfast.

Strand Arts Centre Chief Executive Mimi Turtle said: “Just two years established, we are very much in our infancy but believe we have achieved a lot. In addition to our weekly film offer we have hosted over 30 theatre productions, 25 music events, in excess of 100 specialist film events and 120 participatory arts events covering a wide variety of art forms – attracting an audience of over 90,000 people during this period, from young children at our Saturday Minors’ Club to older audiences at our Silver Screenings. We have also taken part in 11 different festivals and partnered with 56 charities and community groups.

“The Strand has served East Belfast well over the last 80 years and has survived as long as could reasonably be expected without considerable investment, but now requires extensive renovation and modernisation to meet customer expectations and play a transformative role in the area. As a result of lack of space and poor facilities, we cannot presently accommodate some of the best performers and theatre companies who wish to be in our programme; the building is inaccessible in some areas for those with physical disabilities; and we are not able to meet demand for educational and skills development courses and workshops.”

The refurbishment would transform the Strand and include three cinema screens showing the latest blockbusters as well as a programme of classic, cultural and educational films; two drama/dance studios and three smaller workshop rooms; two theatres seating 180 & 250 with a diverse programme of live performances throughout the year; and a café/bar fronting the Holywood Road. The Strand is a local landmark that highlights and celebrates the work of inspirational artists and creative people with East Belfast connections such as author Glenn Patterson who is encouraging local audiences to #StrandTogether.

“It’s impossible to overstate the importance of the Strand for the city as a whole, East Belfast in particular.

The potential is great but the next step on the journey can only be taken together with the support of the community. A refurbished Strand will deliver so much more for local audiences and greatly enhance the cultural life of East Belfast.”

If you have any stories or memories from the Strand over the last 80 years, or for more information on #StrandTogether, go to the website www.strandartscentre.com or search for the Strand on social media.

Enjoy a free movie on us. 6 admissions = 1 free ticket.

Sign up for Film Unlimited. Enjoy unlimited movie tickets at a discounted rate for 6 or 12 months.

Join our mailing list. Sign up to receive our latest news and special offers.

Become a Friend of the Strand. Support the Strand and enjoy a range of exclusive benefits.

Private Hire. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries or other special occasions, and we also have meeting/conference facilities.

Take to social media. Talk about the #StrandTogether campaign on social media What’s Your Story? We want to gather your stories and pictures of The Strand over 80 years. Share your memories by e-mailing intern@strandartscentre.comr call 9065 5830.

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PUPILS FROM ORANGEFIELD PS HAVE LIFESKILLS! Primary 5 pupils from Orangefield Primary School recently received their Level 2 certificates after successfully completing a Barnardo’s LifeSkills programme which supports children aged 8-14 years to make healthy choices.

They were presented with their certificates at a Recognition Event held at Belfast City Hall by Belfast Deputy Lord Mayor Guy Spence and are pictured with their teacher Lauren Lunney.

Barnardo’s NI Assistant Director Linda McClure said: “We are delighted to celebrate the successful completion of the LifeSkills programme by the pupils from Orangefield Primary School. The 10 week programme which is part of their Personal Development and Mutual Understanding class at school is about learning to make healthy choices around smoking, drugs and alcohol. We know the pressures children and young people can face and we also know that by having the confidence to make healthy choices for themselves they give themselves a better chance at reaching their potential. It is important that children have these skills before they face the pressures, which is why we are delivering the LifeSkills programme in primary schools and youth groups. The programme originated in the US and Barnardo’s NI adapted it and introduced it to the UK in 2013 as part of the Big Lottery Fund’s Realising Ambition programme. To date almost 3,000 children and young people have participated.”

Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast Guy Spence said: “It is so important that young people are equipped with the right decision making, assertiveness and social skills to help them negotiate their way safely through the many challenging situations they face in this fast changing world. LifeSkills does what it says and I am delighted that so many young people have benefitted from this Barnardo’s programme and are in a strong and confident place to make safe and healthy choices for themselves. These are skills they will have for life which will benefit themselves, their schools, their families and their communities.”

For further information about LifeSkills or to have a programme run in a youth or community group near you contact: Geoff.phillips@barnardos.org.uk or T: 028 9079 0133.

LOCAL CHIROPRACTOR OF THE YEAR! Local Belfast Chiropractor, Dr Paul Pringle, of Pringle Chiropractic, Holywood Road, Belfast recently won the United Chiropractic Association’s prestigious 'UK CHIROPRACTOR OF THE YEAR' award.

Paul as he prefers to be called, has for over 53 years served the communities in which he has lived, he was the first flying chiropractor travelling to some of the most remote areas of Australia to serve his patients. He and his wife Maxine have now practiced in Belfast, Northern Ireland for the past 22 years and continue to grow in Chiropractic.

Dr Pringle was unable to attend this years conference and AGM in Birmingham. He was awarded the accolade and Dr Kevin Proudman, President of the United Chiropractic Association, accepted the award on his behalf. To learn more about Dr Pringle and his background please visit his website www.Pringle-Chiropractic.co.uk. Look out for our special ‘celebration offer’ advert for an initial consultation, examination and report. 26 - 28 Holywood Road, Belfast, BT4 1NT | www.pringle-chiropractic.co.uk

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HOME COOKING AT ITS BEST IN KINGS SQUARE Since opening in Kings Square last year, Cherry Orchard has earned its reputation for great tasting homemade food.

From homemade soups made daily, to fresh made-to-order sandwiches, homemade quiches and delicious salads, the quality of the food served at Cherry Orchard is second to none. Not to mention the legendary scones and cakes and traybakes, all baked daily by owner Emma Simms. Due to popular demand, Cherry Orchard has now expanded its range to offer an extensive catering menu, offering anything from sandwich and scone platters, to hot food such as soups, lasagnes, curries and pulled pork. And of course desserts!

Cherry Orchard now opens 7 days a week, and offers a delivery service for orders over £10.

Opening hours: Monday – Friday 8am – 4pm, Saturday 9am – 4pm, Sunday 11am – 4pm.

For more information check out www.facebook.com/cherryorchardcoffeeshop.

BIKE TO WORK DAY Andrea, 49 and Anthony Toner, 50, from the East Belfast, took part in Bike to Work Day. Transport Minister Danny Kennedy, along with hundreds of cycling commuters supporting ‘Bike to Work Day’, made a detour to Belfast City Hall for a special bicycle breakfast at the invitation of Lord Mayor Arder Carson. ‘Bike to Work Day’, marks the end of a weeklong series of events aimed at highlighting the numerous health, financial and environmental benefits associated with cycling. Danny Kennedy, Transport Minister and committed cyclist said: “I would like to thank everyone who has taken part in ‘Bike to Work Day’ and the many others who have joined in the events that made up this year’s ‘Bike Week.

The annual ‘Bike to Work Day’ may end this evening, but together we can make every day a ‘bike day’ when we consider cycling for commuting or leisure.” Bike Week is an annual event promoted by the Department for Regional Development Cycling Unit to raise public awareness of the benefits of cycling. For more information visit facebook.com/Travelwiseni or http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/travelwiseni

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News angela@bloommagazine.co.uk

LOCAL LAD CROWNED MR EUROPE Fergus McMullan, age 15, from Holywood County Down competed in the 2015 NIFMA MR & MISS EUROPE Fitness Model Championships and was crowned Mr Europe Formalwear under 16 and Mr Europe Formalwear Overall, Mr Europe Physique Under 16 and second in Mr Europe Athletic Under 16.

His coach, Cathy McAleer, herself a past karate world champion and currently a kick boxing European champion, coached Fergus through the gruelling weeks of training.

She was delighted with his success and said: "Fergus has trained extremely hard for the last two months, most days doing a 6am run, a mid afternoon bodyweight session and then a late evening run/bodyweight routine and thoroughly deserves his titles.

Fergus has shown great determination and stamina, but is especially to be praised for his dedication to his diet which consisted on no carbs for the last week and very low carbs for the three weeks before the competition – so no sweets, sugary drinks, junk food, pasta, etc. On days his friends were going out, Fergus could be found in the gym or running up and down Redburn hills to build up his leg muscles.

Fergus’ attitude to training is second to none and most of the adults I have trained have not shown the same commitment.”

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Fergus is delighted with his wins on Sunday and is now setting his sights on the next competition.

Fergus says that his training started for his trip to Latvia in May for the Karate World Championships where he was hoping to win gold in both kata and fighting, but his hopes were dashed when he stumbled in kata and just missed a medal in fighting, but being ranked 4th in the World.

He said the hardest part of the training was being called to the gym when he had plans to go out but knew that his training was more important than an afternoon out.

He is now looking forward to his next karate competition and then concentrating on his fitness, running and body sculpting.

Commenting on the benefits of karate and the martial arts, Cathy said "I highly recommend taking up martial arts to improve strength, speed, mental focus and self discipline: the benefits really are fantastic whatever your age. If anyone wants to participate in karate whether for their own personal benefit or to reach world class competition standard like the Fergus and the other students who went to Latvia, I'd love to hear from them."

For more information please contact Cathy McAleer at 077514653232 or Facebook: Holywood karate Club page

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AMPMNI ABSEIL IN AID OF NI HOSPICE On Sunday 14th June 2015, Belfast Activity Centre were hosting a charity abseil down The Europa Hotel, Belfast. Four brave members of the AMPMni team agreed to take on the 110ft high challenge, all for a good cause. Staff were raising money for the NI Hospice, as well as aiming to reach the bottom first, as a matter of pride.

Aaron, Alan, Amy and Erin met outside the hotel at 12:30pm, eager to get going. After registering and going through the briefing process, it was time to get kitted out and start ascending to the top of the hotel where the real fun would begin.

At approximately 1:30pm, the team were ready to go. A few last words of encouragement from the experts, and they were off.. some looking to gain an advantage over others. The descent was rather pleasant on what was a calm, sunny day, and the team made it to the bottom without any issues. Congrats to Erin, for making the most of your jump start and finishing first.

The team would like to thank those who turned up on the day to support, and in addition, to those who have sponsored us so far. We are still currently collecting for a few more days before the final proceeds will be handed across to NI Hospice. The question now is... What to do next...?

SLIM SET TO OPEN HIS THIRD HEALTHY KITCHEN Less than two years on from transforming the restaurant scene in Belfast, Slim’s Healthy Kitchen is set to open its third outlet later this year in east Belfast.

The brand already has outlets on Belfast’s Lisburn Road and at Victoria Square Shopping Centre with construction work underway at premises on Belmont Road.

The restaurant is set to open its doors in August following an investment of £200k at the 1800 sq. ft. unit, employing 35 full and part-time staff, bringing total staff numbers for the locally owned business to 85.

Established in June 2013 by 31 year-old Gary McIldowney, Slim’s Healthy Kitchen aims to offer feel-good convenience food without the guilt. Their no-nonsense approach to healthy food has won over a legion of fans for its juices, super foods and salads alongside homemade burgers, roast chicken and Thai curry signature dishes with a tasty healthy twist.

Gary said, “I have been looking a suitable locations in east Belfast for a while as it’s a thriving part of the city with a varied and dynamic food offering. I believe Slim’s will compliment the existing cafes and restaurants offering providing a healthier option to dining out.

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AMPMni awarded Silver at The Lettings Agency of the Year Awards 2015

AMPMni was awarded Silver as Northern Ireland Letting Agents at The Lettings Agency of the Year Awards 2015 in association with The Sunday Times and The Times and sponsored by Zoopla Property Group.

On Friday 12th June, over 550 leading letting agents from throughout the UK attended a glittering ceremony at The Lancaster London Hotel opposite Hyde Park where the winners of the most highly regarded awards in the lettings industry were revealed. The winners were presented with their awards by six-time world champion and marathon ace, Paula Radcliffe MBE, with renowned journalist, author and newsreader Penny Smith acting as compere.

Award winners were decided following a rigorous and thorough judging process by a panel of 20 industry experts who assessed initial entry submissions before conducting an extensive review of the entrants, which included over 150 hours of telephone interviews and independent mystery shopping exercises. The whole of the judging process was overseen by The Property Ombudsman, Christopher Hamer, and David Cox, Managing Director designate of ARLA acted as Arbiter.

Now in its sixth year as a dedicated competition, these awards have become widely recognised as the most prestigious and difficult to win. With more entrants than ever before, over 5,000 offices were represented this year, but only the very best of the best were crowned as winners. Individuals were also recognised for their hard work and commitment to customer service in four different categories, and a new award was introduced; The Best Lettings Agency to Work For. AMPMni, silver winners of the Northern Ireland Letting Agents of the Year were delighted to receive the award. Aaron McKinney commented, “It is tremendous to be recognised, in this way, by experts within our industry. It is especially so, as this is the first year we have entered the competition. We have worked hard to put together a great team at AMPMni and I am immensely proud of them for winning such a prestigious award.”

SALES | LETTINGS | MANAGEMENT E S T AT E A G E N T S

BALLYHACKAMORE T: 028 9067 3777

BELMONT T: 028 9047 4660

ON THE WEB www.ampmni.com

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SPLASH TIP FOR SCHOOL SHOES Kids have only left school and we’re already talking about school shoes but people get caught every year!

The thing is there’s genuinely a ‘ strategic key time ‘ for getting your school shoes : not too early so kids don’t outgrow them during summer and not too late so you get the best choice – and choice there will be plenty of at SPLASH… as long as you come at the right time!

Bearing in mind SPLASH is closed for holidays from the 13th of July to the 16th, the best week to visit for school shoes is going to be the last week of July and in any event no later than the first week of August. So put these precious dates in your diary now and in the meantime, wishing everyone a great summer! Find us: 106 Bloomfield Avenue | Tel: 02890 457 226

I WORK OUT COMES TO EAST BELFAST Hi there, firstly I’d like to introduce myself, my name is Jill McConkey and I’m the manager of East Belfast’s newest gym – I WORK OUT (located at the bottom of the Bloomfield Avenue, beside Wyse Byse).

I am also a Personal Trainer, each week either myself or one of our successful team will offer health and fitness advise on both training and nutrition for all types of goals, including fat loss and lean muscle gain! Topics will include calories vs nutrition, protein, fats, carbs, sleep, water, supplements, stress, detox, hormones, gut issues, changing your mind-set, training for fat loss, training for muscle gain, training for endurance and the list goes on!

I Work Out has a fully equipped gym/free weights area, a cardio room and a separate leg training area! We also have a varied morning and evening timetable with both Les Mills and freestyle classes to suit all levels of fitness. Join I WORK OUT for ONLY £20 per month for the gym and £25 per month for gym & classes. With NO contract and options for cash or direct debit payment – I WORK OUT is the gym for you!

I WORK OUT will be teaming up with Bloom Magazine over the next few months to provide you all with Health & Fitness Tips. Look out for our Local Expert page this September.

Find us: www.facebook.com/iworkoutbelfast or Tel: 028 9543 4398

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It all seemed so sensible a few months ago. "Let's go on holiday" we thought. Having not been away for 3 years, we thought we deserved a break.

A lovely restful break. Like with childbirth, I'd forgotten the horrors of travelling with a 9 month old. Now knee deep packing for our impending flight, I'm reminded in all its glory of just how difficult it is to go away with kids. Half of my suitcase is filled with cartons of formula, nappies, baby porridge, and the all-important baby wipes. One of our cabin bags is filled with colouring books, felt-tips, stickers, Disney princesses and baby toys. The Kindle has been filled with picture books. The iPad has been loaded with the older one's favourite movies. My husband has a pink Disney princess booster seat in his case. My cabin bag is the baby's changing bag and it is full of biscuits... which will be used, along with airside purchased yoghurt, to keep her busy, and hopefully quiet on the flight. (Did I mention the baby is going through a phase of shouting at the top of her voice, so much so that she's gone hoarse? Good luck to whoever's sitting near us - hope you've got your earplugs.)

Then when we get there I'll probably freak out at all the tiled floors, and the sharp edges, and the balcony. Baby-proofing is a foreign concept (excuse the pun.) Oh, and the pool. And the sun.

But then I'll feel that sun on my face and remember why we've shelled out a small fortune to come away. I'll watch as the baby discovers sand and splashes in the shallows. I'll laugh as the eldest tries to speak Spanish, learnt from Dora the Explorer.

We'll watch sunsets together, swim together, explore together. Make memories together. So wish us luck on our Spanish adventure. It'll probably be another three years before we recover!

Donna Follow my blog at www.abelfastmum.com

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HOLYWOOD ARCHES GATEWAY TO EAST BELFAST It’s a very exciting time in the development of East Belfast. The East Side Arts Festival will be held 19th – 31st August 2015. This year’s programme is the biggest and most extensive with over sixty events to be announced in early July with the headline performance from Sir Van Morrison live on Cyprus Avenue, many local businesses will be stocking Festival Programmes and offering additional discounts on products and services over the festival period 19th – 31st August – look out for the “East Side Arts Festival Window Signs” announcing festival programme details and promotions.

Behind the scenes Holywood Arches Business Association has been working hard, organising several events and promotions. The Chairman of the association, local businessman Alan Martin commented that “the association aims to remind our local community of the importance of supporting local business and wants to create a real community spirit in the Holywood Arches” also “there are plans to regenerate and substantially develop the area over the next five years, which will create many opportunities for new business and the local East Belfast community to benefit from this large investment”.

To keep shoppers up to date on all the events happening in the area, the business association has its own Facebook page. The page gives local business the chance to let shoppers know about sales, special offers, competitions and events.

See us at www.facebook.com/pages/Holywood-Arches-Business-Association If you would like to view the proposed redevelopment plans visit www.holywoodarches.com For further details on the East Side Arts Festival 19th – 31st August 2015 visit www.eastsidearts.net

WHAT DO YOU ABOUT HOLYWOOD ARCHES? I particularly love the friendly and welcoming atmosphere at Lindores Coee House, which is just a short 2 minute stroll from my house. My favorite meal is their delicious and substantial Caesar salad. I have also been partial to a delicious freshly prepared fried breakfast, either to take away, when in a rush and on the go, or to sit in and chill out after church on sundays.

I Love The Hoose Bistro for the best of local produce and its laid-back relaxing atmosphere. It's great value as it is Bring Your Own with no corkage.

Lisa Sparkes

Alan

BloomďŹ eld Auctions is a treasure trove of collectibles where there is many a bargain to be found.

Wyse Byse is an East Belfast institution approaching it's 50th anniversary. Great quality, variety and value. One of my earliest memories as a child is my Grandmother taking me to Wyse Byse for pick and mix sweets! I now take my 2 children.

Gerry

Suzie

I think everyone knows how much I love and support the Strand Arts Centre but my other favourite part of the Arches is the library. They provide such a good service to the community and the iconic CS Lewis statue is a fitting reminder of their strong link to the people and history of East Belfast.

My family and I love our Sundays cycling along the Connswater Greenway - It is amazing to have so much green open space to use so close to the city. The future plans are only going to add to this great amenity for walkers and cyclists alike.

Dawn Williams

Stephen

(Owner at the Beautiful Flower Company)

(Chair of Holywood Arches Business Association)

(East Belfast Resident)

(East Belfast Resident)

(Local girl & Blogger - The Girl in The Big Picture)

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(East Belfast Resident)

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EXPERT Top Tips from Nature’s Way Over the next few issues I will be chatting about some of the most common ailments that I am asked about each day in store, and giving you all a few alternative tips along the way!!

Digestion being top of the list!! Bloating, constipation, diarrhea, acid reflux are a few symptoms. We eat at least 3 times a day which means the bowels should empty the same way but that is not always the case. If this alarms you or you suffer from any of the above read on.

Jacqui Maxwell Natures Way

Bad habits might include consuming vast quantities of sugar, refined wheat, caffeine, and general junk foods, or not chewing your food properly. Stress is also a major issue, and I will talk more of this in later editions.

Prescription Medication is a huge factor. Most stating constipation and stomach upset as side effects! So what do we do?? Take a laxative or an antacid - which is actually the worst thing we can do as the body then becomes reliant on them which in turn can make the entire stomach lazy!

Fact - 90% of my customers with problems from skin complaints, arthritis, allergies, sleep disturbance and most commonly, fatigue will always need to make a few adjustments concerning their diets.

A Few of my top tips For upset, nausea and bouts of IBS, try Ginger, silica gel or aloe Vera all of these have soothing benefits.

After a heavy meal some peppermint or fennel tea For constipation try Magnesium and linseeds to soften stools Charcoal is one of the oldest remedies to help aid flatulence and bloating Making sure we have enough good bacteria by taking some probiotics Apple cider vinegar is a great way to get the stomach stared in the morning My suggestion is everything in moderation. Being a mother myself I realize there are lots of temptations and unless you are severely allergic to certain foods don't deprive yourself of the odd treat. However, keep in mind that you know your body more than anyone, so if you think something irritates you, simply avoid it. If we feed our body the wrong fuel, we cannot expect good energy.

Tel: +44(0)28 9047 1333 | www.houseofhomebrew.co.uk

Nature’s Way, 305 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT4 3JH

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Cherry Orchard, ideally situated in Kings Square Belfast, has become renowned for delicious home cooked food using the best of local ingredients.

Favourites on the menu include; The best home-baked scones Freshly prepared soups Delicious deep filled sandwiches and paninis Home baked individual quiches and tartlets Extensive range of cakes and traybakes

OUTSIDE CATERING Cherry Orchard now offers an extensive outside catering service, including sandwich platters, fruit and traybake platters, individual cakes and desserts and much more.

Unit 21, Kings Square, East Belfast Open Mon – Fri: 8am – 4pm, Sat: 9am – 4pm, Sun: 10am - 4pm / Tel: 028 9079 1258

facebook.com/cherryorchardcoffeeshop

LOCAL

EXPERT

ERIC MERCER OPTICIANS

ARE YOUR CHILD’S EYES READY FOR SCHOOL?

While kids are enjoying the summer break, many parents are already busy planning for the new school year. Uniforms, PE kits, pens, pencils etc. are all essential items on your child’s “back to school” list. However, are you sure their eyes are ready for the challenges ahead?

Poor vision can have a damaging impact on children’s’ ability to learn, as well as holding them back in sports and other school activities. Yet, research shows that as many as one in five children will return to school with undiagnosed eye problems, such as a “lazy eye”. The problem is that children often aren’t aware they have a sight defect. Also, there may be no obvious signs for parents or teachers to pick up on.

Free eye tests

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Regular eye tests are the key to ensuring your child has the best possible vision. And it’s never too early to have their eyes tested. In fact it’s a good idea to get an eye check before the age of 4, so that problems are discovered before starting school. The earlier an eye defect is detected, the greater the chances of it being corrected and treated successfully.

Remember, it costs nothing to have your child’s eyes tested: NHS eye tests are free to all children under 16 and full-time students under 19.

That’s when contact lenses can be a great option. Contact lens technology has developed immensely in recent years, making them more comfortable and easier than ever to wear - even for children as young as 7 or 8 years old. Daily disposables are a particularly healthy and convenient choice for kids with busy schedules: no cleaning or disinfecting procedures are required and a fresh pair of lenses are used every time they’re worn.

Kids’ specs

Alternatively, specialised prescription goggles are available for use in a wide range of different sports. These include football, basketball, tennis, squash and swimming. Sports frames are specially designed from light-weight, impact resistant materials with soft protective padding around the eyes and nose. Furthermore, they are shaped in a curved,

Fortunately, these days, wearing glasses no longer has the stigma it used to. Modern frames come in a terrific range of colours and styles and most children treat them as a trendy fashion accessory. Nevertheless, while kids’ specs have never looked better or felt more comfortable, wearing them can be a hindrance for sports and other activities.

Sports goggles

If you have any questions about your child’s individual visual needs, ask your optometrist for specialist advice. And, to make sure their eyesight is up to standard, don’t forget to include an eye test on your “back to school” list.

CONTACT ERIC: |

26

448 Woodstock Road Belfast, BT6 9DR. Tel: 028 9058 3030

For more information check out the practice website at: www.ericmerceropticians.com

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Back to School with Jan at Kip McGrath

While most people are getting ready for the summer holidays, here at Kip McGrath we end up as busy as ever! As many parents combat that age old problem, the majority of children and teenagers forget a lot of what they learned in the past school year.

Granted certain age groups have definitely earned a break, such as final year GCSE and AS and A Level students, my advice would be to let them sleep and relax until the results come out; if all is well, they can begin to think of the next academic step in their education – and if not you might consider someone like us!

However certain age groups can certainly benefit from doing a little bit of work and revision of the basics over the summer, even those in P7, who have gone through the stress of the transfer tests! We all know that’s it a tradition here in NI to let this particular group relax a little in P7, but the fact is they’re heading into Year 8/1st Form and they’ll probably feel more confident if their brains have had some “exercise” over the summer. If possible encourage at least some reading – anything that interests them. In August, revising times tables, weights and measures and shapes, area and volume would be useful. A page a day of an English grammar booklet would also be useful (and an investment for the years ahead), as there are weaknesses in this area from primary to secondary. CGP publishers produce excellent books for each primary level and can be sourced online.

P4 and P5 will also benefit from a revision in August of what they have covered the previous year, as much reading as possible and some work on grammar and punctuation, which will benefit them for years to come. This could also be applied to teenagers finishing their 1st, 2nd and 3rd year of secondary education! Again CGP have workbooks in English grammar, Maths and other subjects for KS3.

That leaves three age groups: P6, 4th Form/Year11 and the little ones beginning P1. If your P6 child is doing the transfer tests, then most of you have probably already invested in papers for over the

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summer, I’d advise plenty of fun, as well as a reasonable amount of work. For those not doing the test, I’d still advise reading, revising the previous year’s work, tables and maths facts and an English grammar/punctuation booklet to work through – everybody does GCSE’s!

To those who have just finished the first year of their two year course in GCSE’s, I’d say make next summer your ‘last year of freedom’ and do a little work this summer!

If you’re doing English Literature – read the books! Ask your teacher for the titles and buy or borrow copies from school. For English Language (you must have this qualification) again work on grammar, punctuation and spelling of common words – weaknesses in this area lead to re-sits for many teenagers. CGP publishers again have workbooks specifically for these areas. As for Maths (parts of which you’ve probably sat), it sounds basic, but know your tables, learn your weights and measures and the conversions from metric to imperial (this still comes up!) and your formulae. Anything you don’t understand and find really tricky, then perhaps it’s best to get help from teachers in September, your tutor or the family Maths genus!

Last but not least, here are some practical tips for parents of P1’s:

Read a story to your child each day and discuss the content and pictures.

Go over the alphabet so that your child recognises the letters.

Help your child write his or her name.

Help your child recognise high frequency words by sight. You can google “first 100 high frequency words” and download them.

Count items in the house and outside to familiarise your child with numbers one to ten.

Talk to your child about everyday activities and introduce new words.

Talk about their new school and what the school environment is like.

If school has set “golden rules” talk about how to keep them.

*Places still available for August Summer Sessions. Contact Jan at Kip McGrath on 02890 469 662 Kip McGrath Education Centre, 104 Loopland Drive, Belfast, BT6 9DX | www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/GB/Belfast-East

LOCAL

EXPERT

SECRET DAY SPA

SECRET WAYS TO AMP UP YOUR SUN PROTECTION FACTOR Protective Makeup

Hydrated Skin

Foundation itself acts as a physical barrier against harmful UV rays, but choose one with added SPF and you’re doubly protected from the ageing effects of the sun.

Keep your skin hydrated. Use a mist as a refreshing shield to improve skin texture, fight damaging free radicals as well as hydrating the skin.

Recommended – Antioxident Hydramist

Line Proof Skin

Eyecare

Take action against UV rays with a day cream that has a combination of sun protection factor AND antioxidants. Moisturise your skin generously with your preferred Dermalogica SPF moisturiser.

Don’t forget about the eyes. Around the eye area is very sensitive to sun. To protect this use abn eye cream.

Pat gently around the eye for broad spectrum sunscreen protection. It helps repair and protect while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Recommended - Agee smart dynamic skin recovery SPF 50 and oil free matte SPF 30 will give you all day protection.

Recommended - Total Eye care

For The Body

Healthy Happy Hair

Always ensure your skin is well protected when sun bathing to prevent cellular damage caused by exposure to solar rays.

Did you know that hair ages just like skin when exposed to UV rays? Protect and nourish with an SPF spray each morning and you’ll help escape dry, frazzled looking tresses come autumn.

Comfort Zone Soul sun range is available form face and body.It protects against erythema and pigmentation, Nourishing the skin and allowing an all over even tan without burning. Available in factor 8/15/50

Recommended - Aveda Suncare protective hair veil. This is a lightweight, water-resistant UV defense mist that forms an invisible screen to help protect hair from sun exposure for up to 16 hours, to minimize colour fadage, damage and dryness.

30 Belmont Road, Belfast, Antrim, BT4 2AN

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30

Tel: 028 9067 1914 Email: contact@thesecretdayspa.co.uk Web: www.thesecretdayspa.co.uk

Build For A Brighter Future At Belfast East we o er professional tutoring programmes for primary through to high school students. We help build the foundations for academic success.

We focus on :

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PREPARE YOUR CH Reading & Spelling FOR ANY EDUCATIONILD AL Comprehension STAGE FROM P2 TO Literacy & Dyslexia Support UPPER SIXTH Ages 6-18 English & Maths Key Stage 3, GCSE & A Level Individual Programmes of Study Preparation for CEA & Multiple Choice Transfer Tests

CALL JAN ON 028 9046 9662 FOR A FREE ASSESSMENT

Kip McGrath Education Centre, 104 Loopland Drive, Belfast BT6 9DX kipmcgrath.co.uk/GB/Belfast-East

cookbook ABOUT DELI MURU Muru meant 'a little something' in Finnish. In this case, it refers to a new East Belfast company, owned by Kay, which makes an array of conserves, chutney, sweet and savoury biscuits, foodie hampers and gifts!

White Peach & Apricot with Honey Syrup & Vanilla Cream

For the Syrup:

For the Fruit:

- 200g brown sugar - 3 Tbsp Honey (try to find local) - 200ml water

- 4-6 Apricots Sliced - 4 White peaches sliced

Put the sugar, honey and water into a saucepan and bring gently to the boil until it reduces to a quarter of the original quantity.

Gently griddle on the BBQ or griddle pan until softened slightly and you get lovely charred lines. Pour the syrup over the fruit and infuse.

To serve, place the fruit on a plate, add a dollop of vanilla cream and drizzle with syrup. Decorate with any other seasonal fruit.

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- Vanilla cream - A few raspberries

Sourdough with BBQ Lamb, Roast Vegetables & Lemon Pepper Yoghurt

For the Lamb:

For the Dressing:

-

-

750g Lamb - (get your local butcher to butterfly a piece of lamb) 2 Tbsp Olive oil 4cm Fresh Ginger 1 Red chilli (optional) 4 Garlic cloves 2 Tsp Mixed spice 1 Tsp Sweet Paprika Juice of ½ a lemon Sourdough bread

Place the olive oil, ginger, garlic, chilli, mixed spice, paprika and Lemon juice in a food processor and blitz.

Rub into the Lamb and leave overnight or 1-2 hours.

For the Vegetables: -

2 Orange & 2 Red peppers cut into strips 1 Large Aubergine 2 Courgettes 2 Onions

1 Tub of thick Greek yoghurt Juice of ½ a lemon 1-2 Tsp olive oil Black pepper

Bring the Lamb out of the fridge 30-45 minutes before cooking, while heating up the BBQ. Brush the vegetables with oil and griddle until cooked and slightly charred.

BBQ the lamb 10-15 minutes each side depending on preference. Cover with foil and rest for 10 minutes.

Combine the yoghurt, oil, lemon juice in a small bowl and season with black pepper.

When ready to serve. Slice the sourdough and thinly slice the Lamb, spread a layer of the dressing onto the bread, top with the roast vegetables, arrange the lamb on top and drizzle with the remaining dressing and serve.

33

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As a Virgin Active Family Member, you can leave your over 3s in our Ofsted approved crèche for up to 4 hours a day.* Giving you time to take a class, have a swim, or do your hooray-I’ve-got-a-minute-to-myself dance.

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News angela@bloommagazine.co.uk

LOCAL

Bloom Magazine Belfast

VIEWS

@bloommag

NEWS

EVENTS

BloomMagBelfast

GET READY FOR A FEAST OF FUN AT THE EASTSIDE ARTS FESTIVAL 2015 East Belfast is gearing up for a feast of music, poetry, comedy, visual art and family events this August at the annual EastSide Arts Festival which takes place 19th – 31st August. There will be a fantastic line-up of concerts, illustrated talks, poetry readings, exhibitions and fun events for all the family.

Among the highlights are concerts by Duke Special, Dana Masters, Altan and readings from Glenn Patterson, Lucy Caldwell, Gerald Dawe. Film screenings include the work of acclaimed New York-based artist Marcus Robinson and the work of the late Stewart Parker and there will be poetry from Alice McCullough. In addition, there’s a range of heritage events celebrating the history of this fascinating quarter of the city.

There will be free events for families, including arts and crafts workshops and a family fun day at Orangefield Park. Look out for the wide range of art exhibitions, walking tours and open days in arts venues across the east of the city.

The festival will close with two unique, sold out performances by Van Morrison on Cyprus Avenue, Bank Holiday Monday, 31st August.

For full festival programme including tickets visit www.eastsidearts.net and keep up to date with the latest news via Facebook.com/EastSideArts and Twitter @EastSideArtsBel

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what’s on TODDLER GROUPS TODDLER GROUPS Mondays

Mondays

Calvary Mums & Toddlers.

10.30-12.00am. £1 per family.

100 Dee St, BT4 028 9073 2331 Calvary Mums & Toddlers.

Little Stars 10.30-12.00am. £1 per family.

The Salvation Army 110 Cregagh Road 100 Dee St, BT4 028 9073 2331 Toys/snacks/craft/music. £1.50 per Little Stars family. 10am-12 term time for 0-4 The Salvation Army 110 Cregagh Road years. 028 9045 4466.

Toys/snacks/craft/music. £1.50 per Sydenham Parent & Toddler family. 10am-12 term time for 0-4 Mon 10-11.30 £1 per family years. 028 9045 4466.

Inverary CC BT4 1RN 028 9047 1456 Sydenham Parent & Toddler St Finnians Mon 10-11.30 £1 per family 10-11.30 Cregagh Park, 9079 2793.

Inverary CC BT4 1RN 028 9047 1456 Wandsworth Mums & Chums St Finnians 10-11.45am. Wandsworth CC. £1 10-11.30 Cregagh Park, 9079 2793.

26a Belmont Church Rd. 07903 674698 Wandsworth Mums & Chums 10-11.45am. Wandsworth CC. £1 26a Belmont Church Rd. 07903 674698 Albertbridge Congregational 10.30-12.15 Woodstock Link Albertbridge Congregational Donation £1 CFC10.30-12.15 Mops & Tots Woodstock Link.time Donation £1 9.30-11am (term - alternate CFC Mops & Tots Tuesdays) £1 for one child, £1.50 total (term time - alternate for 9.30-11am more. Tea/coffee/juice/snacks.

Tuesdays)Presbyterian £1 for one child, £1.50 total McQuiston Toddler Group for more.

Tea/coffee/juice/snacks.

Tuesdays 10.15-11am £1 CFC EachMops 9.30-11am (term time - alternate Includes Tea/Juice & Toast Tuesdays) £3.50 per mum. Breakfast Mersey Street Presb. and creche provided. 10 Belmont Rd. 10-11.45am term time. £1.

028 9067 1838 www.thisiscfc.com Mersey St Presbyterian 028 90 657025 Mersey Street Presb.

St Donards Church 10-11.45am term time. £1.

Mersey St Presbyterian 028 90 657025 Tel: 028 9065 2321 St Donards Church £1 for adults. Tea/coffee/juice Strandtown Baptist Tots Tel: 028 9065 2321 10.00- 11.30am (term time) £1 for adults. Tea/coffee/juice Strandtown Baptist Church, Strandtown Baptist Tots 1 Clonallon Court BT4 2AB 10.00- 11.30am (term time) Tel: 028 9080 8380 £1 per adult Strandtown Baptist Church, Tots & Co 1 Clonallon Court BT4 2AB Tel: 028 9080 8380 £1 per adult Tots & Co

Tuesdays

Tuesdays

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38

email your event details to: angela@bloommagazine.co.uk

10.15- 11.45am (term time) EVENTS Cregagh Methodist Church £1.50 per family (incl juice/snack & 10.15- 11.45am (term time) Tel: 07791 776307/07980 984506 tea. 28-30 Cregagh Rd. 028 9045 7564 Cregagh Methodist Church St Columba’s Mums & Tots £1.50 per family (incl juice/snack & 9.45-11.45 (term time). 29 Kings Road Ballyhackamore Library tea. 28-30 Cregagh Rd. 028 9045 7564 1-3 Eastleigh Drive 028 9050 9204 Busy Bees Books R Us Etc 9-11 yr olds reading group EVENTS 10 -11:30am Knock Methodist Church, (third Mon of month) 3.30-4.30 Knock Road. Tel: 028 9065 3413 Knit & Natter 2-4pm Busy Bees Bedtime Stories 7pm. Me Time (Last 10 -11:30am Knock Methodist Church, 10.30-12 37 North Road, BT5 5NE Mon of the month) Knock Road. Tel: 028 9065 3413 Ballyhackamore LibraryFor busy women 7-8.

Bean Blessed 1-3 Eastleigh Drive 028 9050 9204

Mondays

Wednesdays

Wednesdays

Mondays

10.30-12 37 North Road, BT5 5NE Community, 464 Castlereagh Road

Books R Us 9-11 yr olds reading group scones, pastries. 10.30-12 (thirdTea/ Moncoffee, of month) 3.30-4.30 Memorial Knit &Harding Natter 2-4pm St Colmcille’s Parent & Toddler Rainbows Monday Community, 464 Castlereagh Road Bedtime Storiesgirls 7pm.4-7yrs Me Time (Last6pm 10am term time St Colmcille’s Brownies girlsFor 7-10yrs Monday7-8.

7pm Mon of the month) busy women Parish Hall (opposite Tesco’s) in St Colmcille’s Parent & Toddler BeanGuides Blessed10-14yrs Mondays 7pm.

Ballyhackamore. 191a Upper N’ards Rd Contact Clare 07905 556825.

10am term time St Colmcille’s Parish Hall (opposite Tesco’s) in 10-12pm W’stock Rd,looking 028 9045 Ballyhackamore.

Men after7654 young children welcome. 191a Upper Newtownards Rd

Thursdays

10-12pm W’stock Rd, 028 9045 7654 10-11.30am £1 per family

Grand Parade 028 9065 8946.

Thursdays Cregagh Mums & Tots

10-12pm Cregagh CC. Mount Merrion Avenue. Tel:£1 028 1444 10-11.30am per9040 family Gilnahirk Presbyterian Grand Parade 028 9065 8946.

Thursdays 10-11.30am.

Cregagh Mums & Tots £1 per family.

161 Gilnahirk Rd.CC. Laura 07708 000025 10-12pm Cregagh Mount Merrion Kirkpatrick Memorial Presb Avenue.

Tel: 028 9040 1444 Parents & Toddlers. 10-11.30am Gilnahirk Presbyterian Upper Newtownards Rd£1 £1per donation Thursdays 10-11.30am. family.

Knock Parent Toddler 161 Gilnahirk Rd.& Laura 07708 000025 10-11.45am Knock Presbyterian Kirkpatrick Memorial Presb 53 Kings Road, Gillian 07803 117619.

Parents & Toddlers.

10-11.30am Upper Newtownards Rd £1 donation Knock Parent & Toddler 10-11.45am Knock Presbyterian Baby Breakfast 53Bank Kings Road, GillianClub 07803 117619.

10:00am - 11:30am, Bank Cafe Bar 20 - 22 Belmont Road Any Tea or Coffee - £1 St Columba’s Mums & Tots Tots ‘R’ Us 9.45-11.45 (term time). 29 Kings Road 10.30am House of Worship 127a Orby Drive

Fridays

Fridays

Tea/ coffee, scones, pastries. 10.30-12 Ladies Coffee Morning 1st Mon of month Harding Memorial 10.30am NorthMonday Rd 028 6pm 9065 7876 Rainbows girls37 4-7yrs Skainos Building skainos.org Brownies girls 7-10yrs Monday 7pm Badminton Guides 10-14yrs 2-3pm.

MondaysCrosslinks 7pm. - Cross Community Arts 556825.

7-9pm 14-21 yr olds.

Contact Clare 07905 Contact Andy Hill.

NI Mon Starsof month LadiesStrand CoffeeCinema Morning&1st Holywood Road, 10.30am 37 North Rd BT4 028 .nistars.com 9065 7876 Singing & dancing 7-8pm Skainos Building skainos.org Wandsworth Community Badminton 2-3pm. Crosslinks - Cross 028 9065 Children’s Community Arts1668.

7-9pm 14-21 yrDrama olds.

Academy 5-6pm. Children & Teens Contact Andy Hill. carnival drumming 6.30pm-7.30pm.

Strand Cinema & NI Stars Aerobics Combat 8.15-9.30pm Holywood Road,7-8pm.

BT4 .nistars.com East& Belfast Singing dancingMission 7-8pm Skainos Community Square Irish Classes Wandsworth 10am1668.

- 12pm (Upper Intermediate) 028 9065 Children’s Drama 6pm5-6pm.

- 7pm (Singing Academy ChildrenClass) & Teens 7pmdrumming - 9pm (Upper Intermediate) carnival 6.30pm-7.30pm.

Aerobics 7-8pm. Combat 8.15-9.30pm

Tuesdays Tuesdays

Belmont Tower Belmont Tower www.nationaltrust.org.uk/belmont-tower www.belmont-tower.co.uk Childrens dance classes 4-7pm Childrens 4-7pmMonthly Meeting East dance Belfastclasses Wine Makers Pregnancy Yoga 7.30-8.30pm Meditation 7pm - 9pm East Belfast Makers SkainosWine Building skainos.org Skainos Building skainos.org Compass Womens Group 7-9pm Compass Womens Group 7-9pm Zumba 12.30-1.30pm

what’s on

email your event details to: angela@bloommagazine.co.uk

Yoga Belfast Pregnancy Yoga @ Gilnahirk Primary.

6.45-7.45pm. Community drop in class @ Ice Bowl 7-8pm. yogabelfast.com

Skainos Building skainos.org Fusion - Weekly programme of games, crafts & fun for p1-p7’s. 6.30-8pm £1 per person. Contact Tanita Robinson.

Irish Class: 10am - 12pm 10.15- 11.45am (term time) Tel: 07791 776307/07980 984506 (Lower Intermediate) Cregagh Methodist Church St Columba’s Mums & Tots The Academy £1.50 per family (incl juice/snack & 9.45-11.45 (term time). 29 Kings Road Lego Club 3.30-4.30pm. Ages 3-6 tea.

28-30 CregaghLibrary Rd. 028 9045 7564 Ballyhackamore years. £5 p/wk. 77 Holywood Rd. 1-3 Eastleigh Drive 028 9050 9204 EVENTS Etc 028 9508 8818 Rhythm & Rhyme (1st & 3rd Thurs of Wandsworth Community 10.30-12.00am. £1 per family. the month) 11.15am. Book Pack (1st Painting for Pleasure 11am-1pm Busy Bees 100 Dee St, BT4 028 9073 2331 Thur) Adult reading group. Scrabble Childrens Ju Jitsu 6-8pm 10Night -11:30am Knock Methodist Church, Little Stars (adults) 6-8pm.

Fitness & Boxing Class 8.30-9.30pm Knock Road.

Tel: 028 9065 3413 Ballyhackamore Library The Salvation Army 110 Cregagh Road Belmont Tower 29th NI Girls Brigade Shiloh Hall Toys/snacks/craft/music. £1.50 per www.nationaltrust.org.uk/belmont-tower1-3 Eastleigh Drive 028 9050 9204 Cregagh Congregational. Explorers (307712 299206, 76 The Mount, ND 10.30-12 37 North Road, BT5 family. 10am-12 term time for 0-4 Art classes 10am-1pm.

Baby5NE Sensory Books R Us 9-11 yr olds reading group 7) 6:45-8:15pm.

Company Section (8Coffee (third Mon ofMorning month) 10:30-12.

3.30-4.30 years.

028 9045 4466.

Classes 7-13 mths Thurs 10-11am 18) 6:45-10pm. Helen 07938 521823.

Knit & Natter 2-4pm Sydenham Parent & Toddler 0-7 mths Thurs 11.30-12.30 Belmont Tower Community, 464 Castlereagh Road Bedtime Stories 7pm. Me Time (Last Mon 10-11.30 £1 per family Yoga with Sharon 6.30pm-8.30pm www.nationaltrust.org.uk/belmont-tower Inverary CC 10am-1pm.

BT4 1RN 028 9047 1456 East Belfast Historic (Monthly Meeting) Mon of the month) For busy women 7-8.

Baby massage StMindfulness Colmcille’s Courses Parent &6.30-8.30pm Toddler Bean37 Blessed Finnians 39thStOld Boys 7-9pm North Road, BT5 5NE 10am term time StLuncheon Colmcille’s 10-11.30 Cregagh Park, 9079 2793.

Senior Citizens Club PlayBall NI 10am - 1pm Searchlight Club p1-p7. 10.30-12.

Parish Hall@(opposite pastries.

10.30-12 Wandsworth Mums6.30pm & Chums Midday BallymacTesco’s) Centre. in Hot lunch Tea/ coffee, Skainosscones, Building skainos.org Mindfulness Classes - 8.30pm Ballyhackamore.

Men looking after Harding Memorial 10-11.45am.

CC. £1 & social time. alison@ballymac.org Walking Trips from 10am Over 60’s Lunch Wandsworth Club children welcome.

191a Upper Rainbows girls 4-7yrs&Monday 26a Belmont Church Rd. 07903 674698 young Skainos Building skainos.org Strand Cinema NI Stars6pm Newtownards Rd- Weekly streetdance.

Brownies girls 7-10yrs Monday Vibe Academy Holywood Road, BT4 Stage7pm school 12.30pm. 3 courses for £3. Grand Guides 10-14yrs Mondays 7pm. p1-p4 3.30-4.30pm P5-P7 4.3010-1pm www.nistars.com Parade. Tel: 028 9065 2314 to book.

Contact 07905 556825.

10-12pm 028 9045 5.30pm W’stock 1st yr+ Rd, 6.45-8pm. £6 7654 per TheClare Academy Gilnahirk Men’s Group class. Lisa 07736 315420. Compass 10am Lego Club. 11am Claycrazy Club.

JackAlbertbridge Britton Hall.Congregational Tea/coffee/chat & a Morning771stHolywood Mon of month 10.30-12.15 Mens Group 7-9pm. 50+ Gardening & Ladies£5Coffee per session.

Rd. speaker.

10.30-12 until 29th April.

10.30am North Rd 028 9065 7876 Crafts Thurs 1-2.30pm 028 37 9508 8818 GirlsWoodstock Brigade Link. Donation £1 Skainos Building CFC Mops & Tots Beginners Tin Whistle 2pm - 3pm Yoga Belfastskainos.org Badminton 2-3pm.

- Cross 9.30-11am (termP5time - alternate The Academy Pregnancy YogaCrosslinks @ Physioworks 3 yrs - P4 6.15pm. upwards 7.30pm Community Arts10.30-11.45am 7-9pm 14-21 yr@olds. £1 per family Age 7+ Tuesdays) £1 for one child, £1.50 total 10-11.30am Lego Club 3.30-4.30pm.

Gilnahirk.

ComLuncheon Club Contact Andydrop Hill.in class 10.30-11.45am @ Grand Parade 028 9065Rd. 8946. more.

Tea/coffee/juice/snacks. £5p/wk.

77 Holywood munity For for senior citizens.

Cregagh Methodist.

Strand CinemaPrimary. & NI Stars Cregagh Mums CFC Mops 028 9508 8818& Tots Gilnahirk yogabelfast.com 12 noon. £1.50. Pre book meals at the Holywood Road, BT4 .nistars.com 10-12pm Cregagh CC. Mount Merrion 9.30-11am (term time - alternate Wandsworth Community Wandsworth Community Singing dancing Avenue.

Tel: 1668.

028 9040 1444 Tuesdays) £3.50 per mum. Breakfast 028 9065 Needlework 028&9065 16687-8pm Skainos Bulding skainos.org Wandsworth Community Gilnahirk Presbyterian and creche provided.

10 Belmont 10am-12pm.

Spanish mums & tots STX/Kickboxing 10am-11.30am Compass Kidz Gap - Parents, guard- Rd. Thursdays 10-11.30am. £1 preschoolers per family. 028 9065 028 9067 1838 www.thisiscfc.com 11am-12pm.

Spanish for Park1668.

Run Children’s Drama ians, toddlers - crafts, games, stories Children & Teens 161 GilnahirkSpanish Rd. Laura 000025 MerseyGoing StreetGreen Presb.

Every5-6pm.

Saturday in Victoria Park 2.15-3pm. for 07708 children 3.15- Academy 10am-12.

Gardening drumming Kirkpatrick Presb 10-11.45am term time. £1.

9.30am - FREE6.30pm-7.30pm.

Event 4pm. Boot Memorial Camp 7-8pm.

Core Combat carnival 2-4pm.

Yoga 5.30-7pm Aerobics 7-8pm. Combat 8.15-9.30pm & Toddlers. 10-11.30am St Presbyterian 028(Family 90 657025 8.30-10pm.

IrishMersey Classes: 5.30pm - 7pm Class) Parents Upper Newtownards Rd £1 donation St Donards Church 7pm - 9pm (Beginners Class) Knock Parent & Toddler 7pm - 9pm (Lower Intermediate) 10-11.45am Knock Presbyterian Tel: 028 9065 2321 Strand Cinema & NI Stars Strand Arts Centre TowerRoad, BT4 53Albertbridge Kings Road, Congregational Gillian 07803 117619. Belmont £1 for adults.

Tea/coffee/juice Holywood “Wacky Wednesdays” shows, all day www.belmont-tower.co.uk Strandtown BaptistAllTots Singling & dancing 1.30-3.30pm 6 Woodstock Link 028 9045 7434 for 10.00£3. strandartscentre.com dance classes 4-7pm 11.30am (term time) www.nistars.com Friday Friendship. 10.30am-12.30pm. Childrens Wandsworth Pregnancy YogaTea 7.30-8.30pm StrandtownCommunity Baptist Church, S.D. Bells & Coffee House Ballyhackamore Library Sewing Group 10am-12noon.

East Belfast Tots Us 1 Clonallon Court BT4 2ABFlower ArJava JiveWine JazzMakers Brunch Brunch 1-3‘R’ Eastleigh Drive 028 9050 9204 ranging 1.30-3.30pm.

Building skainos.org 10.30am of Story Worship Tel: 028 9080 8380 Yoga £1 per7-8.30pm adult 11am -2.30pm Chill OutHouse Family Time. 3.30pm. Skainos Compass Womens Group 7-9pm 127a Orby Drive Tots & Co Belmont Tower www.nationaltrust.org.uk/belmont-tower Art Classes 40 |

Irish Classes: 7pm - 9pm (Beginners) 7pm - 9pm (Beginners - Dundonald High School) 7pm - 8.30pm (Set Dancing Class) Wandsworth Community Playclub 3-4 yr olds 10am-12.

TODDLER GROUPS Painting for Pleasure 11am-1pm Kids Irish dancing 5-6.30pm, Aerobics 7-8pm. Appreciation of Art 7-9pm. Wasps seniors group last Tues of month 2-3.30pm Calvary Mums & Toddlers.

Mondays

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Catering for all your sewing needs such as:

TROUSERS OR SKIRTS SHORTENED • SLEEVES SHORTENED • TAKE INS OR LET OUTS • FORMALWEAR HOME DECOR LIKE CURTAINS, CUSHIONS ETC We also have a range of handmade gifts and memory bears

60a Bloomfield Avenue, Belfast BT5 5AD Telephone: 07925 973713

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26 JUN - 13 SEP B O O K N O W AT T I T A N I C B E L FA S T . C O M

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PARTNERSHIP FOR BLOOM MAGAZINE

The coolest game in town has joined forces with Bloom Magazine ahead of the Stena Line Belfast Giants 2015/16 Season, starting this September at the SSE Arena Belfast!

From September, Bloom Magazine will be bringing YOU all the latest news, match previews, results, competitions and behind-the-scenes happenings from one of Belfast’s most successful professional sporting organisations.

To celebrate this GIANT partnership - the Giants and Bloom Magazine are giving YOU the chance to win a family pass to the opening home game of the 2015/16 season at the SSE Arena Belfast in September. For all the info on how you can win - stay tuned to the Bloom Magazine Facebook & Twitter channels!

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MAD for MAX So depending on your age, the last time you may have encountered Mad Max was circa 1985 when Mel Gibson was in the starring role, which was pretty career defining for him, and Tina Turner didn't need another hero!

The trilogy began in 1979 and the last premiered in 1985. I have watched the trilogy since then over the years but not in the last ten, had you asked me my opinion on Mad Max I would have said it wasn't my thing. Cut to 30 years later and Tom Hardy is now in the starring role and we have a complete game changer on our hands. Apart from hearing some very good reports, Tom Hardy ( 'Inception' and 'The Dark Knight Rises') is the only reason I went to the see the film. Quick aside about Tom Hardy in general - he is the master! 'Mad Max - Fury Road' was nothing short of fantastic in every way. I could not believe how much I enjoyed it. A quick synopsis - set against a stark futuristic landscape, two rebels try to restore order where humanity and the natural order has broken down amidst the remnants of a previous world. It's hard to define what exactly made this film so fantastic.

Charlize Theron ('Monster' and 'Prometheus') played a fantastic part as 'Furiosa'. She looked so completely different in this part with shaved head that I spent the whole film thinking I had seen her in something before - I found out who she was in the car park - told you I knew nothing but the fact that Tom Hardy was in it! I would also say that Tom Hardy was fantastic as 'Max' despite having very few lines.

The action scenes more than made up for his lack of dialogue and I would say that the action sequences, the stunts and the cinematography were what made this film such a triumph. Add this to the location in Namibia and it would be hard to think where else it could have been filmed to offer the same effect. The only other actor I recognised was Nicholas Hoult ('About A Boy' and 'X-Men First Class'). I don't like him as an actor and haven't particularly enjoyed anything I have seen him in. He played this part well if not a little forgettable in my opinion, to be fair I think it would have been hard for him to really stand out against the other main protagonists.

All in all I am glad I set aside my pre-conceived ideas and went to see this and am also especially glad I went to see it in the cinema. Some films are just meant to be seen on the big screen with the proper sound ('Gladiator' is another example) and this was a shining example of this. A sequel is in the pipeline and with every hope that it is as good if not better than this, it will definitely be on my radar.

LIS T I N G S F O R

j ul y / a ug us t |

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Terminator Genisys

2nd JULY

Antman 17TH JULY

Inside Out 24TH JULY

Fantastic Four 6th August

Magix Mike XXL 3rd july

Minions Movie out now!

SUMMER MADNESS

HOLIDAY CLOSING FRIDAY 10TH JULY | REOPENING MONDAY 27TH JULY

Embarrassing Budgets Tax Credit Renewals

Just before you let your hair down and relax after a stressful (for parents) school year, now is the time to think about your tax credit renewal.

This is the second year that HMRC have introduced ‘auto-renewals’, where some claimants don’t have to contact HMRC to renew their award. The reason for this is that HMRC now hold ‘real-time information’, or RTI, from employers, telling them how much has been earned in the last tax year.

For auto-renewal claimants, HMRC will assume that your RTI income is correct and will finalise your tax credits award based on the income figures they hold. It’s really important that you check the income figure provided on your renewal letter and contact HMRC immediately if it doesn’t match the income figure on your P60.

Don’t just assume that the RTI figure will be correct. The RTI system won’t usually know if you have other income, for example self-employment or property income, or if there are other deductions that can be made.

Sometimes your overall income can bereduced for your tax credits renewal. This might be the case if you’ve received For more money saving tips, visit my blog at www.embarrassingbudgets.co.uk, or search for Embarrassing Budgets on Facebook.

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statutory maternity, paternity or adoption pay, where you can deduct £100 per week; made certain pension contributions (although not to an occupational pension scheme if your employer takes the contributions from pay before deducting tax); made charitable donations through Gift Aid; or had trading losses from self-employment for the current year. Other deductions might apply, too.

How do I know whether I need to contact HMRC to renew?

Although some awards are being auto-renewed, others aren’t, and you may need to actively renew your award by post, telephone or online. Your renewal letter will tell you what you need to do.

What if I forget?

If your award is not an auto-renewal and you don’t renew by the 31st July deadline, your tax credits will stop, and you may be faced with an overpayment.

If you need help with your tax credit renewal, you can call Advice NI’s free, impartial, confidential advice service on 0800 988 2377.

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Are you interested in volunteering with people with dementia?

Volunteer Befrienders Our volunteer befrienders meet with a person with dementia or a small group of people with dementia once a week or once a fortnight. If you would be interested in volunteering in a small group or on a one-to-one basis, we would love to hear from you. We provide induction, ongoing training and support for all volunteers.

For more information about the befriending service or volunteering please contact Gillian Clarke on 028 9038 7787 or email: gillian.clarke@alzheimers.org.uk alzheimers.org.uk

Registered charity no. 296645

If you’ve been injured in a road traffic accident you don’t have to use the solicitor recommended by your insurer.

For specialist advice on your personal injury claim call us today for a free initial consultation.

Millar McCall Wylie SOLICITORS

Imperial House 4-10 Donegall Square East Belfast BT1 5HD Tel: Email: Web:

028 9020 0050 mmw@mmwlegal.com www.mmwlegal.com

Eastleigh House 396 Upper Newtownards Road Belfast BT4 3EY

CONTACT US FOR A FREE HOME VISIT AND QUOTATION!

LOCAL

EXPERT

REID BLACK SOLICITORS

BUYING A HOUSE

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED With the ongoing recovery of the housing market we are seeing an increase in the number of people buying property in the Belfast area, many of whom are first time buyers. The conveyancing process is, therefore, a foray into uncharted territory for many buyers and so we aim to answer some of the most frequently asked questions when buying a property.

Q/ What is conveyancing?

A / Conveyancing is the legal process by which ownership of land is transferred from a Vendor (seller) to a Purchaser (buyer).

Q/ How will I know if there are any issues which will affect the value of my desired property?

A/ Your solicitor will acquire the deeds and property certificates for your desired property.

Then they will ensure that all necessary searches are carried out and all relevant enquires are raised so that any issues that may adversely affect you are brought to your attention prior to the completion of the purchase.

Q/ If my solicitors informs me of any issues affecting the property, do I still have to buy it?

A/ No, you will be informed of any issues prior to the signing of the contract of sale. Until both parties have signed this contract and it is returned to your solicitor, there is no legal obligation to complete the purchase.

Q/ I’ve been informed of a completion date. What is that?

A/ This is the date on which you gain physical possession of the property. On the day of completion the Vendor’s solicitor will confirm that the relevant funds have been received and that the keys to your new property are ready for collection.

Q/ Why does it take so long from agreeing to buy to getting the keys?

A/ This involves a number of factors including banks taking longer to produce mortgage offers, surveys and issues which arise and inexperienced solicitors or unqualified staff not knowing how to deal with issues.

Q/ How do I choose the right solicitor?

A/ We find the key is having someone who can communicate with everyone involved so organisation of dates and advance knowledge of issues can be addressed. If you have chosen a solicitor based on solely on price expect that the service and experience of the person dealing with the transaction to reflect that price.

We know that these are only some of the questions that all buyers have when they embark on the road to property ownership but we hope that our answers prove to be of some assistance. If you need advice or assistance with your purchase, contact us today and our solicitors will help you get on the ladder.

David French DIRECTOR

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THE PROPERTY BLOOM REBECCA CAIRNS Cairns & Co.

Buying to Let How to Avoid the Pitfalls!

With the sales market in Northern Ireland starting to recover, many would-be investors are turning their sights again towards the Buy to Let Market.

So is Buy to Let still a good investment and is there money to be made? Well, yes and yes. But it pays to do a bit of research.

Do the Maths

While interest rates are nice and low right now – that isn’t always going to be the case, so make sure you do your sums to ensure you can still afford to pay your mortgage when rates start to go up – and don’t forgot to factor in all the other costs involved – rates, insurance, rental void periods, property maintenance and agents fees to name a just a few.

Timing is crucial

Many investors had their fingers burnt when they bought right the top of the market peak of 2007. Now that prices have bottomed out and started to rise again, this is the time to buy and take advantage of that rise.

Location, Location, Location

To get the best from your investment you have to buy the right property. You should take into consideration the type of tenant that you want, the potential Capital Growth on the property and the rental yield. I would always recommend, particularly if you are a first time investor, to buy in a location you know well.

And Finally

Use an Agent. Even if you plan to collect your own rent, it’s good advice to use an agent who will have the experience to guide you from start to finish.

If you are buying, selling or thinking of investing Cairns & Co offer free advice and one on one consultations. Call us on 02890 73888 or email rc@cairnsni.com.

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We’re proud to announce the opening of our second branch and the expansion of our service to Dundonald. Call in to either of our offices to see our wide range of properties and how we can help you take that next big step.

T: 028 9070 2999 E: info@visionpropertyagents.co.uk @vpahomes

BELFAST 8 Grand Parade Belfast BT5 5HH

DUNDONALD 977 Upper Newtownards Road, Dundonald BT16 1RL

www.visionpropertyagents.co.uk

DUNDONALD