Sligo Now Magazine

July 2014 • €2.00 • Issue 21

IF IT’S HAPPENING IN SLIGO

THEN WE HAVE IT COVERED!

AGLTH V I T S E F

ERENGTH TO STREN COINAGI FRROD M ST

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G N I N E D R GAORNELLIUS D E R I P S N I ITH LEONIE C

E D O M

N LA VIE E O'DONNELL W

íONA WITH TR

PIA AR ZATRO AID A MCD

WITH

BRIGHT LIGHTS KAREN GORDON’S STAR FACTORY

ISSN 2009-5422

TEERS N U L O V

NS L TIDY TOW SLIGO BEAUTIFU KEEPING

IL O E H C

H D ON FLTEHA DOWN IS T N U O C E

WELCOME

contents

Your critical guide to events, culture, attractions and going out in Sligo

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ligo surely must be top of the class when it comes to festivals. Practically every weekend throughout the summer there is a festival organised by local volunteers. Sea festivals, music festivals, food festivals, kids festivals, poetry festivals, twin fests, agri festivals and even big brother festivals.

We are blessed to have them all here on our doorstep.

The amount of work and organising that goes into making them happen is unbelievable so if you can try and support them as best you can.

We have a hat trick of new columnist for you to enjoy this month. Triona O’Donnell of Modafix, Zara McDaid of Artopia and Deborah Sherlock of Proactive Nutrition will now be joining Kate, Leonie, Muireann and the girls from Electric Green to bring you the very latest of what’s happening.

With the third annual Rennafix Havin a Laugh Adventure Festival taking place this month, Kate Winter met with the founder of the inspirational event, Blaithin Sweeney. She tells the story behind it all, and underlines the importance of positive mental health promotion.

Karen Gordon the driving force behind 'The Star Factory', a talent and performance group for young people in Sligo, with an ethos of inclusiveness and community spirit talks to Kate Winter about their journey so far.

The work of Sligo Tidy Towns has been the talk of the town this year, and is really kicking into gear with the impending Fleadh arriving in August.

We talk to Austin O'Callaghan about community spirit, creative thinking and the passion for Sligo Town that's driving it all.

Other highlights are details on the cairde festival, the Sligo Jazz project and Ballygawleys’ Big Brother.

We also have an update on how prepertion fro the fleadh are coming along Make sure to get your copy of Sligo Now early next month, as it will be a special souvenir Fleadh edition.

It will be packed with interviews from local artists along with a comprehensive gig listing that will get you through the month. If your local shop has sold out of copies please contact us here and let us know

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Seamus Casey - Editor

contact us

Editor: Seamus Casey seamus@sligonow.ie Design: Stephen Finney steve@sligonow.ie Editorial: Kate Winter katewinter@sligonow.ie

Sales: Alan Gaffney alan@sligonow.ie Sales: Lisa Gilmartin lisa@sligonow.ie

Photography: Nicola Gillespie Donal Hackett Jimmy Kilgannen Niamh Devaney Aaron Gorman

OUT AND ABOUT Summer BBQ for Friends of Sligo Regional at The Radisson Blu

LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE With the third annual Rennafix Havin a Laugh Adventure Festival taking place this month, Kate Winter met with the founder of the inspirational event, Blaithin Sweeney.

AFTER DARK @ THE GARAVOGUE BAR

SHE’S GONNA MAKE YOU A STAR Karen Gordon is the driving force behind 'The Star Factory', a talent and performance group for young people in Sligo, with an ethos of inclusiveness and community spirit.

She talks to us about the journey so far.

OUT AND ABOUT Lillies Bar and Velvet Room Nightclub

WATCH THIS SPACE Christian McCleod Surf Photographer SUMMER ACTIVITIES

WHATS ON IN SLIGO...

Your definitive out and about guide!

ELECTRIC GREEN

SLIGO TIDY TOWNS: Keeping Sligo Beautiful We speak to Austin O'Callaghan about the work of Sligo Tidy Towns which and is really kicking into gear with the impending Fleadh arriving in August.

GARDENING WITH LEONIE CORNELLIUS

ARTOPIA: With Zara McDaid LA VIE END MODE: With Tríona O’Donnell

HEALTH AND WELLBEING DIRECTORY WHATS COOKING OUT FOR DINNER - RESTAURANT GUIDE SERVICES DIRECTORY WINTERS NEW LEAVES

Published by: IBS Publications Limited Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo.

Tel/Fax: 071-9154538 Web: www.sligonow.ie Email: info@sligonow.ie

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 3

Imelda Henry and Emma Flanagan

Caroline Howard, Bernie Breslin, Sally-Ann Henry and Nicola Henry

Caroline Murray, Caroline Murphy and Caroline Collins

Amanda Flanagan. Mary Scanlon, Jacinta Walsh and Deirdre Cahill

Emily Ribbins and Sarah McDermott

Jean Kennedy and Treasa Kelly

Claire McManus, Mary Tighe, Helen McNamara, Edel McDermott, Pauline McGlynn, Helen Hayes and Maureen Lafferty

Specialising in Bridal & Occasional Makeup

Aisling Leydon

Recently awarded Sligo’s Best Makeup Artist

Award Winning Professional Makeup Artist

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 4

1a Charles Street, Sligo • Tel: 087-2072112

Mary Naughton, Sarah Moffitt and Helen Fee

Helen Fee, Ita McMorrow, Sarah Moffitt, Pauline McGlynn, Patricia McManus & Mary Maughlin

Caroline Casey, Mary Neilson, Margo Murphy, Orla Donaghy and Carlell McGrath

Arleene Gibbs, Kathleen McGuinness , Catriona Walsh (President Sligo Chamber of Commerce), Pauline McGlynn, Caroline Tansey, Eithne McSharry and Helen Hayes

Dorothy Bird and Elaine McVeigh ?

Marie McTernan and Colette Armstrong

Audrey Doyle, Lyn Carty, Chris Condon, Michelle Healy and Mary Allen

Catriona Belton, Imelda Henry, Martina Henry Morrow, Lorna Nicholson & Olivia Henry Quinn

Dracula PRP Therapy™ NEW & EXCLUSIVE to Ireland Sports Injuries, Hairloss, Acne Scars, Breast Volume Correction, Stretch Marks, Skin Rejuvenation, Facelifts Cosmetic Doctor Facial Injection Procedures, Migraine, Excessive Sweating, Teeth Grinding, Gummy Smile & Silhouette Soft Thread Facelift.

Dermal Fillers Lip & Cheek Enhancement, Tear Trough, Ear Lobe and Nose Reshaping.

Chemical Skin Peel Smoker’s Complexion, Pregnancy Dark Spots, Pigmentation, Visable Pores, Dull Complexion and Excess Sebum.

Advanced Cosmetic Procedure Tattoo Removal, Blepharoplasty at the beginning and remove Milia, Skin Tags and Spider Naevus

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 5

Eimear & Yvonne

Lauren, Rachel & Isabell

Noar, Aoife & Eva

Boys night out at White Gorillas

Kevin & Alicia

Michele & Galavo

Traditional Music Every Friday & Saturday

Premiership Matches Shown Live in the Bar

CASTLE STREET, SLIGO • OFF LICENCE TELEPHONE: 071-9138900

WATCH LIVE SPORTS IN THE BAR

Stocking premium Irish, Scotch and world whiskeys, Armagnac, Quality Rums and Liqueurs Award winning wines ranging from €5 to €80

Speciality Beers and Wines

Excellent variety of quality Cuban Cigars Craft and World Beers stocked

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Our friendly Staff can help you choose from our extensive range of wines and spirits

Call into us for the perfect Gift Ideas

Very few off licences will capture your imagination like Foleys, with its breathtaking range!

March 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 66

is e best medicine

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 8

W

ith the third annual Rennafix Havin a Laugh Adventure Festival taking place this month, Kate Winter met with the founder of the inspirational event, Blaithin Sweeney. She tells the story behind it all, and underlines the importance of positive mental health promotion.

It's called "Mental Health" and it's something we are constantly encouraged to be aware of, to keep an eye on, to take care of. But still, a lingering sense of unease and discomfort lingers, from the good old days when it was termed slightly more ominously, "Mental Illness". It's a big issue in a small country on the outskirts of Europe with one of the highest suicide rates among young people in the EU. There are mental health organisations and suicide prevention charities a-plenty.

But Rennafix, and the Havin' A Laugh Adventure Festival come at the whole subject from a refreshingly different angle. The Sligo-based charity aims to focus on the 'healthy' part of the equation.

To align ideas of support and counselling with a fun, active lifestyle and relaxed conversations in peaceful places. To facilitate a handson, engaged approach to taking responsibility for our own emotional and mental well-being within our peer groups. As it says on their mission statement: Imagine if the term 'mental health' evoked images of sunshine, mischief and unashamed conversation?

The adventure fest and the charity group behind it are the brainchild of Blaithin Sweeney, born of tragedy and hope simultaneously. Her story is a very sad one, but her spirit and vision are exceptional, and what she has created from her own very personal loss stands out in Sligo as one of the single most positive and generous events of the year.

Blaithin met and fell in love with local surfer and joker, Paul Rennick in 2006, and embarked on a relationship full of laughter, adventure, mischief and mayhem. One of the most loveable characters in town, and always with a cheeky smile in place, Paul was well known and respected for his daredevil extreme sports lifestyle and general good craic attitude.

It was only when the pair moved away from home in 2010, to the somewhat bleak surrounds of Alice Springs in the

Northern Territory of Australia, that Blaithin noticed any change in her long-term partner, and even at that, it was a gradual altering of his personality which seemed sure to resolve itself over time and with a change in circumstance. However, despite moving location and job several times, being so far removed from his usual support network and lifestyle, Paul slipped into an increasing state of depression. The couple did talk about moving home, but he was determined to make a success of their move, and to 'beat the blues'.

Together, they did seek help, through the more traditional avenues of counselling and therapy, but nothing seemed to work. Paul did want to get better, and Blaithin did everything in her power to help her partner.

However in August 2011, Paul lost his battle with depression and took his own life in the early hours of the morning on a busy Melbourne highway.

Blaithin, as his fiancĂŠe, had to struggle through the ensuing days of shock and devastation in a haze of organisation and paperwork.

Aided by a few close friends, and by family back in Sligo, she managed to arrange to get his body home for the funeral, though it did take ten days to finally orchestrate. This, it turns out, was where the seeds for the memorial festival and charity took root.

Because there was such a delay in the usual run of things, the days leading up to the funeral allowed for all of Paul's friends the world over to make their plans and return to Sligo.

Fellow adventurers and free spirits jumped on planes from far-flung places such as the USA, Japan, Holland and Australia. By the time Paul Rennick's funeral took place, there was a reunion of unprecedented proportions brewing. And there was a growing determination among his peers to support each other through this difficult time and to celebrate his life, which resulted in a strangely uplifting festival atmosphere, lasting months and months after the actual event of his funeral.

By the time the anniversary of his death was nearing, Blaithin knew she had to do something special to mark the occasion. Having funds left over from the generous donations made to the Paul Rennick Memorial Trust during the expensive and complicated process of repatriation and funeral arrangements, it seemed only fitting to give something back to the friends and family who had helped so much, and to the community at large, who had shown such care and support.

The Havin' A Laugh Adventure Festival is what manifested; an outdoorsy weekend of fun and sport and communication that Paul himself would have delighted in.

PHOTOS BY DONAL HACKETT

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 9

A festival with a light and easygoing focus on mental health, a festival which a year later formed the basis for the evolving charity Rennafix, whose work focuses on subsidizing life-enhancing activities to community groups and those seeking counselling and/or therapy.

Over the past three years, the festival has seen people of all ages and walks of life come together to enjoy nature, physical challenge, emotional support and general fun. Though it's termed an 'adventure fest' the emphasis is not entirely on physical exercise and extreme sport – how much of that you do is entirely up to yourself! Featuring a very popular annual fancy dress surf event and the chilled out evening of outdoor cinema and camping under the stars, alongside different levels of sporting activities such as mountain biking, yoga, SUP, kayaking and much more, there's plenty on offer over the weekend, whatever one's fitness levels.

The main aim of the festival is to promote awareness of the positive benefits of living a healthy, engaged lifestyle on personal mental health. This year has seen the inclusion of a comedy night to kick off the festivities, Friday 4th July at Tricky's McGarrigles, in collaboration with Sligo's own Spike Comedy Club. As well as this new addition, there will be a lot more alternative offerings during the family fun day on Saturday; art, holistic healing, music and massage, to name but a few.

Big names in outdoor pursuits will be getting involved and offering tuition and advice for those seeking more of a thrill, people like North West Adventure Tours, SUP for All, Active Yoga, Sligo Kayak Tours and Wild Wet Adventures.

The goodwill and sense of community spirit around the festival itself is a testament to the love for Paul and the respect for Blaithin and her incredible team in Sligo. The most important thing is to continue to promote the festival, and the charity, so that ever more people who may be desperately in need of support come to know it exists. This is exactly the kind of thing which would have helped Paul Rennick immeasurably. There are so many people suffering depression who don't have the resources, the energy, the time, or the inclination to reach out for help in the traditional way. What's on offer here is different. It's vibrant. It shines a light into the cracks which can appear in anyone's life at any time.

And all this organised by a woman with the strength and courage and love to take her own heartbreak and create something incredible out of it. Coming from horrifying circumstance of grief and sadness, Blaithin Sweeney's journey to healing has swept many, many lucky people along in her wake. She lists countless individuals who have helped her along the way, and deflects much of the praise aimed at her with selfdeprecation and kind words about her team. But the truth is, Blaithin is the heart behind Rennafix and the Havin' A Laugh Adventure Festival.

And Paul is the soul of it.

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 10

This year's Havin' A Laugh Adventure Festival runs from July 4th to 6th. See www.havinalaugh.ie or Facebook for details.

Shane O'Donnell and Tahlia Jovic

Michelle Mulligan and Caroline Wynne

Nicole Cawley and Stephanie McNamara

Cathal McQuillan and Ciara Glass Blaithin Sweeney, Seamus McGoldrick and Kerrie Carroll

Paul Carroll and Marian Rolf

Lorcan Burke and Siobhan Conroy

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July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 12

Joe and Katie Hussey

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Branching Out's Mad Hatters with Rachel Kelly

Young Yeats members and Art Competition winners

Damien Brennan, Brian Devaney (Town Crier), Seanator Susan O'Keeffe, Tina & George McGoldrick

Mary McDonagh & Siobhan Alexander

Damien Brennan, Lolene O'Hara and Teresa Fawls

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Tel: 071-9197977 Visit the website: www.tomcalleryceramics.ie

GALLERY NO.6 OPENING SOON

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 13

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T

he Star Factory was an idea I had back in 2011, when I realised there was so much opportunity for adults in Sligo to get involved in the creative arts voluntarily, but nothing like that for kids. I'm heavily involved in theatre in my own spare time, with Coolera Dramatic Society and Sligo Musical Society and the like. I love going to shows and performing in shows. I love every side of it really. And I just felt that I could head off straight after work for rehearsals or whatever, but that just wasn't there for kids, and if it was, it was fairly costly.

When I was young, we couldn't really afford to be spending money on stuff like that, so no matter how much I would have liked to do it, it just wasn't an option. The only experience we had was what we did in school and what we made up in our own time, but they were still some of the best experiences I had, growing up.

And I just wanted to start something that would give more young people from less privileged backgrounds the opportunity to come together in a creative sense. I worked together with friends and family on the original idea, and pulled in lots of bigger names in Sligo, people like Kieran Quinn and Aine Gilmore, all of whom were just amazingly enthusiastic and encouraging.

Karen Gordon is the driving force behind 'The Star Factory', a talent and performance group for young people in Sligo, with an ethos of inclusiveness and community spirit.

She talks to Kate Winter about the journey so far.

There was a great feeling around it, everyone we talked to was more than willing to get involved – they could see that kids really need something like this and can really benefit from it too. It gives them a hobby, an interest, something to dedicate themselves to. And it builds their confidence considerably too. That said, when we started out, I was often thinking "can this really work?" We had no money, no premises, no name... we really started from scratch, as there was no model to work from.

We weren't even sure if kids were going to go for this idea at all.

The name The Star Factory name just came up really naturally and stuck. And as far as worrying whether the interest was there, we really needn't have. We decided to put on a production of Hairspray, ran some auditions, and over a hundred and fifty people turned up in about an hour! We had said we'd never turn anyone away, so you can imagine that was a big project to debut with! Everything just kind of started taking shape.

We were very blessed with premises being offered to us and help and support in the community. And so many different kids from all walks of life were involved. It was clearly the start of something special, we could see that

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 16

straight away.

It's really important to us that there's always a positive attitude in the group. That we stress that we're all there by choice and we all treat each other with respect. But at the same time, we expect them to be disciplined and approach their roles and practice with dedication. It really pays off, I mean looking back, I can't believe how much we've achieved in such a short space of time. And they're doing a lot for the credibility of young people in this town. Kids get a really bad rap a lot of the time, and it's often just down to boredom and lack of focus.

I was nominated for the Calor Gas Unsung Hero of the Community Award at one point, and that was really flattering and nice that someone would take the time to do that, and would recognise what we're doing with The Star Factory. And we won a People of The Year Award for the arts in 2012.

But by far the most fulfilling part of the job for me is seeing the kid's progression. When you watch an opening night performance, and you see the curtains go back and this kid come out and just wow everybody, somebody who just a little while before was shy or nervous... A little child blinking in the lights turns into

an absolute star. That's definitely the best bit for me. A couple always come to mind in particular. I remember during West Side Story, I used to stand in the wings and watch them and it never failed to bring me to tears! Just because they had come in to us with no experience at all, and then there they were; so professional, so committed, so good.

Fundraising is the only thorn in my side. We get amazing support from the parents; they're grateful seeing their kids come home happy and tired every day, so they see the value in what we're doing and I get brilliant support and feedback from them on so many levels. But trying to pull money in is a nightmare and we just can't seem to get funding, no matter how much we look into it. We just fall between the cracks every time. But we just keep going and people have done bigger things than this without money readily available. It could be worse. It's certainly not going to stop us, anyway!

Our next show is Singing in the Rain, running in the Hawkswell in September. It's never been done before in Sligo, and we are so excited.

We're even going to have real rain! Just wait and see, it's going to be something very special indeed.

PHOTO BY NICOLA GILLESPIE

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 17

Lorraine Kilgannon, Lisa Neary and Kirsty Murphy

Deirdre Caheny, Kirsty Halford and Ciara Burke.

Leanne Dunne, Rachel Twydell and Caitlin McCann

Carol Walsh and Edel Hyne

Sinead Kearns and Jacqueline McGarry

Sinead McBrine and Colin Garman

Kataryna Kawla, Regina Tysete, Trevor Caminey, Sarah Folly and Emer Conlon

19th July 2014 Forest Park Boyle, Co Roscommon Are you tired of that straight forward boring run?

Are you training in the gym without a challenge to test all your work?

Do you want to challenge yourself more physically, mentally and emotionally?

Would you like to test your upper body strength as well as your legs for a change?

Then Irelands Toughest Muckers is the event for you. The challenge is set over 10km with 15+ major obstacles. All over ice, fire, water, muck, heights, darkness, tight spaces, big climbs and lots of muck. You need balance endurance, strength and determination. Challenge yourself to the highest level in an event designed and organised by real life fire fighter instructors!

For further details contact us at toughmucker@gmail.com or call 086-1628172 July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 18

Stephan Callaghan, Shane Fallon and Jamie Cawley

Cane and Hillary Cawley with Ciaran O'Gara

Barbara Gilroy and Sarah Louise Grattan

Brian O'Hara and Eimear Feely

Enya Clarke and Sarah Hughes

Megan, Anna, and Mandy Higgins with Grainne McGarry

Carrie, Aisling, Julie and Vanessa Roberts

Explore the wonderful landscape of Lough Gill on-board a traditional open boat with Lough Gill Tours.

Departing from the centre of Sligo town we travel along the Garavogue River for 30 minutes to reach the beautiful lake of Lough Gill made famous by W.b.Yeats and the lake Isle of Innisfree. With its surrounding mountains and many wooded islands, a must see for any visit to Sligo. Other services available include fishing trips, bird watching, photography, island visits & picnics.

Only €20 Per Person / Kids Go at Half Price / Group Rates are available / We can take up to 8 Passengers per trip

For Booking or Enquiries Call Lough Gill Tours on 086-7777375 • www.loughgilltours.com

Aoife Hackett, Darragh Downes, Zoe Scanlon, Klara Kratz, and Sinead Sexton

Ewelina Chandzel, Iwona Grabowska, Magdalena Szerszen and Kate Starczan

Kieran Quinn kicking off his Burt Bacharach Night

Stacey Conway & Emma Kearins

:Jason Kenny, Melissa Ford, Danny Lynnott and Melissa McMurray

Eddie Lee launching the Sligo Jazz Festival at Kieran Quinn's Themed Night

Mark & Joanne Stenson

Orla Wilson's Hen Party

Deborah Davitt & Chelsea Lees at the Ladies Beauty Charity Event

Philip Walpole & Sarah Higgins

Eileen Rooney, Mary Gilmartin, Brenda O'Callaghan and Mairin Mannion

Marie Leydon, Nora Haugh, Marcella McGarry

Nora Haug and Noel Meehan

Celine Shannon, Shauna Cullen and Ciara Scanlon

Hannah Duffy and Megan Duffy

Stephanie Kelly, Patricia O'Hara, Patricia Leydon and Barbara O'Hara

Paddy Gavin and Deirdre Farrell

Ciaran Hayes Sligo County Council Manager, Nina Doherty, Gail McGibbon Sligo Town Centre Coordinator, Gerry Moore, Manager Sligo Park Hotel.

Specialising in Sports & Exercise Nutrition, Weight Management, Healthy Eating Plans and Food intolerance testing.

Bespoke sports nutrition programmes for individuals as well as informative nutrition talks to teams on how to enhance performance and endurance, increase muscle mass, maximise strength, balance energy levels and improve long term health.

Proactive Nutrition, The Good Store, Ballast Quay, Sligo • Tel: 087-2331199 proactivenutrition@outlook.com • www.proactivenutrition.ie July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 22

WATCH THIS SPACE

A BRIEF ENCOUNTER WITH SLIGO’S UP AND COMING STARS

Christian McCleod Surf Photographer

"Listen, however much you want, I'll pay you to pull over.

Please pull over!" He looked at me, and said two words....

"Be quick" So I jumped out, threw on my other lens and ran around like a headless chicken trying to find a good angle to shoot this scene. It was so surreal, I remember taking the few shots and running back to the car. We were in such a rush, the images didn't really hit me until later that night when I saw them on my computer.

1) What's your earliest memory of photography?

And surfing? And how did the two come together for you?

Surfing came to my attention when I was15 years old, in Hawaii... I'd never heard of surfing before that. Photography I got from my Mom at the age of 8. The two came together when I picked up a camera at 19, and I haven't been apart from either since.

2) What have been your stand out achievements so far in the field?

Standouts, probably just having work published in multiple magazines across the world, and having my work spread so far. Last year I was announced as Best Photographer at the Shoreshots International Film Festival, but I prefer to count my eggs as a whole, not just by big once off's.

3) And your favourite experiences/the stories behind some of your favourite images?

One of my favourite images is an image of Classiebawn Castle, Mullaghmore. I remember this day so clearly. I was travelling around with three friends, two were visiting from Germany, and the other was a friend from just up the road. We had got some

really good waves earlier in the day, and decided to go for a drive along the coastline, and we kept insisting on stopping to take photos of the stunning scenery. A sudden change of direction brought us towards Mullaghmore. By this stage, Dylan was starting to get a little tired of pulling over every 400m, seeing as he had to make it back to Bundoran by 5pm.

As we were driving around the headland, we were struck by this amazing light.

Golden crisp light flaring over the fields and around the castle. Further behind, the thick flood-like clouds started to drape over Benbulben like an ocean surge. A tidal wave of the Northwest being lit up. I yelled at Dylan, "Stop the Car!" he said, "No I can't I'm going to be late." I said,

4) You've travelled the world already, where are your favourite places and where is 'home'?

My favourite place so far has to be Norway. For sure.

Undoubtedly. The people, the land and the culture in general is amazing there, and not to mention the waves. It's plentiful in more than money, and I can't wait to head back there. I will always feel like I have two homes, America and Ireland, but home is where the heart is right?

5) Where would you ideally like to see this career take you?

I hope to continue making adventures and documenting the lifestyle I want to live. For now I am simply striving to do this, but I really look forward to reaching a point where I will be working alongside the best in the business.

TopforTips Skincare

Muireann's Here to help Do you have a Beauty or Make up question you would like answered.

E-mail me at beautybymuireann@hotmail.com or find me on facebook at MakeUpbyMuireann Q. I would like to purchase some make up brushes. In a previous write up you recommended blank canvas cosmetics brushes but I am wondering which brushes I need for my own personal make up bag as there are so many different to choose from. I’m confused! Megan

A. Blank canvas brushes are definitely my top choice when picking brushes, they are excellent quality, great value for money, feel fabulous when applying make-up and the company is Irish owned. My top 5 make up brushes for personal use are the: 1. F26- An excellent foundation brush and its nice and small, perfect for getting around the hairline and other hard to reach areas. Using this brush will give your foundation a beautiful flawless finish, much better than applying with fingers!

2. E26- Use this brush to apply colour all over the socket of the eye or use the tip to apply a deeper colour into the eye socket.

3. E32- A great brush for blending out colour. Smaller than some of the other blending brushes it’s a little easier to manage if your just getting started and it’s super soft too.

4. F14- A round top blusher brush which is again nice and small you can use this to apply blusher to your cheeks, highlight check bones or to add contour if you are feeling brave and are confident when applying make up 5. E38- Filling brows is a must for me, even on my make-up free days I have to give these a little definition and what a difference it makes. This little brush is quite dense so use it with a light hand to fill in the brows and create a perfect shape.

They also have a great little bendy eye liner brush and some fabulous contour brushes but these 5 are an excellent start and they range in price from €6.99 - €13.99 so they certainly won’t break the bank

Edel McGowan, Laura Buttler and Emma Cullen

Stephanie Burke and Maeve Kirby

Rosemary McTeague and Stella McCaffery

Susan Dolan and Susan Dunne

Sorcha McLoughlin, James Melody and Leigh-Anne Waters

Sarah Flanagan and Ciara Connolly

Christina Manning, Andrea Mullen, Ronan McArt, Debbie McCormack, Hugh Douglas, Noel McLoughlin, Breda Lally and David Keane

June 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 25

Juicing for Health

by Deborah Sherlock

J

uicing is nothing new but this new craze of super juicing and raw foodies has recently become increasingly popular. So what is juicing? In essence, Juicing is simply removing the juice from whole fruits and vegetables. The fibre is broken down in the fruit and vegetables ensuring that a rich supply of nutrients, antioxidants, phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals are more easily absorbed by the body.

Juicing can reduce your risk of cancer, boost your immune system, remove toxins from the body, aids digestion and helps with weight loss.

Virtually every health authority recommends that we get 6-8 servings of vegetables and fruits per day and very few of us actually get that. Juicing is an easy way to guarantee that you will reach your daily target.

Juicing provides versatility in fruit and vegetables because it helps people enjoy fruits and vegetables they might not usually enjoy in their whole form. It can also balance the pH in our bodies, and in turn, help to protect us from conditions related to acidic imbalances, including heart and kidney disease and diabetes.

When starting out with juicing I would recommend a mid ranged price juicer. Start by juicing vegetables and fruits you really enjoy. Juices should taste pleasant. Be adventurous with flavour combinations. I do not recommend a juicing-only weight loss plan because the lack of fibre and protein in juices often leaves u feeling hungry. Add juices to your normal daily food plan for maximum nutrient intake and health benefits. You’re getting a massive dose of essential vitamins (A, C, E) and minerals (zinc, potassium, iron, calcium) by including a vibrant juice in your daily diet. It might just be enough to put that extra pep in your step!

Sweet Green goodness Ingredients Half a Pineapple, 2 handfuls of spinach 1 cucumber Juice your ingredients through your juicer and add ice to make a refreshing sweet juice packed with nutrients!

Lorraine Alexander, Verona Walsh and Nuala Grogan

Saffron and Angela Koopmans

Lucy Devanney and John Fahy

Ruth, Beatrice, Joan, and Andrew Hunter

Tara Hannon & Michele Gallagher

Pottery Classes @ Lynda Gault Ceramics

Lower Quay Street, Sligo

Learn To Scuba Dive Try Dives Daily Gone Fishing...

Daily 2 Hour Fishing Trips

Courses run on Tuesday or Thursday evenings from 7-9pm and will last for 4 weeks.

Many aspects of Pottery including hand building, throwing on the wheel and decoration will be covered, after which you will have your functional and decorative pieces to bring home.

All Levels from beginner to to advanced are welcome.

For more info please contact Lynda or Leslie at the Studio between 12pm and 6pm on 071-9114155 or out of hours on 086-8094257, you can also email info@lyndagaultceramics.ie

Coleman Music Visi t or Centre G ,C .S urTEEn

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• Traditional Music Experience including Audio Visual Exhibition • Music/Gift Shop

Traditional music, song & dance Complimentary tea/coffee Wed & Sat –July/August 9pm Adm. €10 Family €20

Open Mon-Sat 10am-5.30pm www.colemanirishmusic.com Tel: 071-9182599

SCUBA DIVING CENTRE and FISHING BOAT CHARTER

Horse Riding for all the family in Grange, Co. Sligo

Offshore Watersports Mullaghmore, Co. Sligo mail@offshore.ie www.offshore.ie Declan 0876100111 Michal 0851228303

Open 7 Days a week 1 Hour Beach Ride 2 or 3 Hour Beach and Bog ride Unique 4 hour ride to our private Island Lessons for all ages

Island View Riding Stables, Grange, Co. Sligo Tel: 071-9166156 • Mob: 086-1956615 Email: islandviewridingstables@gmail.com Web: www.islandviewridingstables.com

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Therese O'Loughlin, John Gault, Eddie Lee, Lorna Gault And Norman Pugh

Martin Reilly, Clea Van Der Grijn and Therese O' Loughlin Lee

SJP Director Eddie Lee &Therese O' Loughlin Lee Of Sligo Jazz Project With Ciaran Wilde, Leader Of Dublin City Jazz Orchestra

Marie and Noel McTiernan

M

Deirdre Melvin, Brendan Walsh And Nichola MacEvilly

usicians: Where can you get a week's tuition from three grammy winners and a whole host of internationally renowned jazz musicians?

The answer is St Edward's National School on Clarion Road, Sligo, where Sligo Jazz Project hosts its annual summer school from July 2227. Jazz may not be the most popular music genre - and as a result many jazz musicians of note might not be household names - but many of those teaching on the Sligo Jazz Project have crossed over into popular music at various stages of their career, and many still do. For example percussionist Paul Clarvis has played on hundreds of soundtracks, from Harry Potter to James Bond and Lord of the Rings, as well as performing with then likes of Stevie Wonder and Paul McCartney.

Pianist and orchestrator Alan Broadbent is currently Diana Krall's conductor and orchestrator, he was Nelson Riddle's pianist back in the sixties and in the eighties won a Grammy for his orchestration of "When I Fall

Noeleen Clifford and Martin Reilly

in Love", the iconic Natalie Cole duet with her late dad Nat, which was a huge worldwide hit. The list goes on, including bassist Steve Rodby, winner of no less than thirteen Grammies in a stellar career as bassist with the Pat Metheny Group and as a producer of stars like Esperanza Spalding. Along with twelve other tutors, this trio of jazz greats will teach and perform for the week in Sligo. For a hugely subsidised rate thanks to the Arts Council's support, student participants of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds attend the event which also includes a full blown jazz festival.

The main concerts, which include the entire teaching faculty plus US renegade crossover jazz group The Bad Plus and US trumpeter Christian Scott with a seven piece band, are in the Hawk's Well Theatre and there are free daily jam sessions and a great festival club line up, which includes sax supremo Pee Wee Ellis, this year taking place in Fifth on Teeling. For more info see www.sligojazz.ie

Mette Kavanagh And Niamh Fitzpatrick

ENTRY DEADLINE 31ST JULY 2014

Mon, July 7

MUSIC

Dj Ryan g - Shenanigans Rackhouse pilfer: McGarrigles Cathy Jordan from Dervish: Strand Bar Trad night: Teach Murray in Gurteen Live Music: Shoots Industry night: Garavogue Seamie O'Dowd - 5th on Teeling

Traditional Irish Folk Session - McHughs

Tues, July 8

MUSIC

Trad Sessions 10pm Shoot the CrowsThe Electric Sibin: The Swagman

Thurs, July 10

MUSIC

Trad Session: Earleys 241 drinks with Dj Scruffy Duffy: Garavogue Trad Session: Shoots Trad night: Earley's gerry grennan and Resident Djs from 10pm McHughs Midnight Sessions - Live Band - 5th on Teeling Trad Music - Strand Bar

Hugh O’neil: Fureys Trad Sessions - Shoots

CASUS CIRCUS, AUSTRALIA’S HOTTEST nEW CIRCUS COMpAnY BRIng THEIR SHOW KnEE DEEp AT THE START OF THE CAIRDE ARTS FESTIvAL On SUnDAY 6 JULY, 8pM

2-4-5 Fridays! - 5th on Teeling Live Music 10pm: Snug Live DJ: Shenanigans Accoustic Session 10pm - Fureys Dj Ambros: Rafferty's Live Music - Fiddlers Top of The pops Garavogue

That Friday Feeling with Resident Djs - McHughs Trad night: TD's Bar Trad night: 10pm: Foley's Trad night: Durkins Ballinacarrow: Resident Dj Shenanigans Blackwater Jack - Hargadons

Sat, July 12

MUSIC Rackhouse pilfer - 5th on Teeling Live Music: The Pier Head, Mullaghmore Live Music 10pm: Snug Trad Sessions 8pm Fureys Live Music: TD’s Regan James 10.30 pM The Harp vinyl night with DJ FLESH - Rafferty's bar

Live Music: Swagman gerry Singer: Pier Head, Trad night 10pm: Foley's DJ - Fiddlers

Smash Hits: Garavogue Live DJ: Shenanigans Kevin & Eddie Kennedy’s

Fun Music Quiz: The Dunes Tavern, Strandhill Trad Session 8-10 pM The Harp

Wed, July 9

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE LISTED HERE, EMAIL info@sligonow.ie

MUSIC

Eoin Troy & Band Kennedy’s

Blue Stack Open Mic: McGarrigles Live Music: Shenanigans Trad Session: Roisin Dubh, Gurteen Luke Mitchell from Home and Away: Shenanigans

no Crows - Shoot the Crows grooveology: Swagman Trad Session: McLaughlins Open Mic @ Fureys Trad night: Border Collie White gorillas: Fiddlers Midweek Madness with Open Mic: Fureys Blues Jam night Garavogue

Fri, July 11

Live music at 10.30 pM Strand Bar

€18/14conc. €10 Friends €50 family @ The Hawkswell Theatre

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE LISTED HERE, EMAIL info@sligonow.ie

The Saturday Sessions with Resident Djs McHughs Maureen O’Dowd - Irish House Live Music - Owenmore Live music at 10.30 pM Strand Bar

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE LISTED HERE, EMAIL info@sligonow.ie

Fishamble: The new play Company bring their smash-hit feel-good play Swing to the Hawk’s Well on Sat 12 July, 8pm

Winner of Bewley’s Little Gem Award at Dublin Fringe Festival 2013 A show about dancing and music and love and not settling and feeling like an eejit and being brave and having doubts and trying your best and trying new things and thinking outside the box and seeing things clearly and living as well as you can and giving it a lash.

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 32

Sun, July 13

MUSIC Live Music: The Pier Head, Mullaghmore Sunday Mass: McGarrigles Smile: Kennedy's Bar Bluemoose unplugged session: Garavogue World Cup Final – no music - Owenmore Inn Resident Djs - McHughs

The Quakers / 21 Outs: Swagman Kieran Quinn & Seamie O' Dowd - Hargadons

Trad night: Donaghy's The Shindiggers 6-8 pm The Harp Sunday vegas with Scruffy Duffy - Fiddlers Live DJ: McHughs Trad night: TD's Bar Trad night: 10pm: Foley's Quakers: Garavogue Live Music: Belfry Live DJ: Shenanigans Traditional Folk Session 6pm: Snug

Live music at 7 pM - Strand Bar

Celtic note - Irish House The out of towners 9.30pm Fureys

pICK OF THE WEEK

The Lonesome West @ The Hawkswell Theatre

Beezneez return with the Martin McDonagh classic The Lonesome West. The blackest of black comedies, John McDwyer directs Gerry Farrell (An Ordinary Man), Peter Davey (Johnnie's Britches), Margaret Kilcoyne (Nobody's Perfect) and Brian Gallagher (Scorpion) in a tour-de-force production which rips apart the old Ireland image of comely maidens and leprechauns and introduces us to the mad world of brothers Coleman and Valeen which revolves around important matters such as the ownership of poitin, crisps and figurines. An unmissable night of theatre. by Martin McDonagh Wed 16 – Thurs 17 July, 8pm €17/15conc.

Mon, March 18 Mon, July 14

MUSIC Rackhouse pilfer: McGarrigles Trad Session: Shoots Live Music: Fureys Industry night: Garavogue Open Mic with Dean Mahon & Rory O'Dowd: The Dunes Tavern, Strandhill Traditional Irish Folk Session - McHughs Seamie O'Dowd - 5th on Teeling

Tues, July 15

MUSIC

Trad Sessions 10pm Shoot the CrowsThe Electric Sibin: The Swagman

Blue Stack Open Mic: McGarrigles Live Music: Shenanigans Trad Session: Roisin Dubh, Gurteen Luke Mitchell from Home and Away: Shenanigans

Wed, July 16

MUSIC

no Crows - Shoot the Crows grooveology: Swagman Trad Session: McLaughlins The White gorrilas: Fiddlers The QT: Swagman Open Mic: Fureys no Crows: Shoot the Crows Trad night: The Border Collie in Tourlestrane: Open Mic: Fureys

Thurs, July 17

MUSIC Trad Session: Earleys Midnight Sessions - Live Band - 5th on Teeling

Fri, July 18

MUSIC 2-4-5 Fridays! - 5th on Teeling John L: Foleys

Anything goes Hargadons

Trad night: Earley's Fireside Sessions: Barrys gerry grennan & guest (10pm): Hargadons papa Blues Band Swagman

Rocketman: Fiddlers Alternative Rock and Metal: The Clarance Trad Session: Shoots gerry grennan and friend - Hargadons Hugh O’neil: Fureys gerry grennan and georgie gorman in Residence - Hargadons Resident Djs from 10pm McHughs

Live DJ: Shenanigans Out Of Towners: Fureys Live Music - Fiddlers That Friday Feeling with Resident Djs - McHughs

DJ pC: Swagman Trad night: TD's Bar Trad night 10pm: Foley's Trad night: Durkins Ballinacarrow

The Strappack Kennedy’s

DJ Ambros: Rafferty's Tom Eaton & Amy Conroy: The Dunes Tavern, Strandhill Trad Session 8-10 pM The Harp Accoustic Session 10pm - Fureys Live music at 10.30 pM Strand Bar

pICK OF THE WEEK Sat, July 19

MUSIC

Miles graham & vinyl Live Music - 5th On Teeling.

Sun, July 20

MUSIC Miles graham: 5th on Teeling Out of towners 9.30pm Fureys Sunday Mass: McGarrigles Smile: Kennedy's Live DJ: Shenanigans

Off the Hook - Kennedy’s

Live music at 7 pM - Strand Bar

Dj Raff: Shenanigans Seamus & Friends: Foleys Eoin Troy & grainne Trad Sessions 8pm Fureys Rock'n'Roll Circus 10.30 pM - The Harp vinyl night with DJ FLESH - Rafferty's bar

Live Music - Owenmore Trad night 10pm: Foley's Live Music 10pm: Snug Curly Bobs: Kennedy's

Live music at 10.30 pM Strand Bar

Mass - Garavogue Showband Boys - Irish House The Saturday Sessions with Resident Djs McHughs

Bluemoose unplugged session: Garavogue Live Music: Owenmore Resident Djs - McHughs

vegas night with Scruffy Duffy: Fiddler's Trad night: Donaghy's Traditional Folk Session 6pm: Snug Celtic note - Irish House Live Music: O’Connor’s Ballisodare The Shindiggers from 68pm - Harp Tavern Kieran Quinn & Seamie O' Dowd Hargadons The out of towners 9.30pm Fureys MASS @ MCgARRIgLES Sunday Mass is back to its original roots, new musicians every week with the crowd encouraged to join in

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE LISTED HERE, EMAIL info@sligonow.ie

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 33

Mon, July 21

MUSIC Dj Ryan G - Shenanigans Rackhouse Pilfer: McGarrigles Cathy Jordan from Dervish: Strand Bar Trad night: Teach Murray in Gurteen Live Music: Shoots Industry Night: Garavogue Seamie O'Dowd - 5th on Teeling Traditional Irish Folk Session - McHughs

Tues, July 22

MUSIC

Trad Sessions 10pm Shoot the Crows The Electric Sibin: The Swagman

Blue Stack Open Mic: McGarrigles Live Music: Shenanigans Trad Session: Roisin Dubh, Gurteen Luke Mitchell from Home and Away: Shenanigans

Wed, July 23

No Crows - Shoot the Crows Grooveology: Swagman Trad Session: McLaughlins Open Mic @ Fureys Trad night: Border Collie White Gorillas: Fiddlers Midweek Madness with Open Mic: Fureys Blues Jam Night Garavogue

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE LISTED HERE, EMAIL info@sligonow.ie

Thurs, July 24

MUSIC Trad Session: Earleys 241 drinks with Dj Scruffy Duffy: Garavogue Trad Session: Shoots

Trad Session from 9pm: Snug Hugh O’Neil: Fureys Fireside Sessions: Barrys of Grange Live music: Gormleys Rocketment - Fiddlers Live music: Foleys Trad :McLaughlins

Fri, July 25

MUSIC

North & South - Irish Jazz Allstars - Sligo Jazz Festival Club - 5th on Teeling Out Of Towners: Fureys Live DJ: Shenanigans “Live & Late” Garavogue

That Friday Feeling with Resident Djs - McHughs Live Music - Fiddlers Trad Night:10pm: Foley's Trad Session from 9pm: Snug Eddie & Friends Hargadons

Sat, July 26

MUSIC

Mob Peppers Featuring Pee Wee Ellis - Sligo Jazz Festival Club - 5th on Teeling Seamus & Friends: Foleys Trad Sessions - Fureys Live Music: TD’s Kim Newport and Gerry Gallager - Irish House Live DJ: Shenanigans

BackWater Jack: Morans Queen Bee: Pier Head, Mullaghmore

Off the Hook - Kennedy’s

Gypsy Jazz Festival Club - Sligo Jazz Festival Club 5th on Teeling Alternative Rock and Metal: The Clarance Gerry Grennan and Georgie Gorman in Residence - Hargadons Resident Djs from 10pm McHughs Trad Sessions - Shoot the Crows

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE LISTED HERE, EMAIL info@sligonow.ie

Live music: Swagman Open Mic Original music night: The Dunes Tavern, Strandhill Trad Session 8-10 PM The Harp Accoustic Session 10pm - Fureys Live music at 10.30 PM Strand Bar

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE LISTED HERE, EMAIL info@sligonow.ie

The Bad Plus Tue 22 July, 8pm @ The Hawkswell

Trad Night 10pm: Foley's DJ - Fiddlers Live music: Gormleys The Strappack Kennedy’s Live Music - Owenmore Live music: Earlys Live music: Garavogue Rackhouse Pilfer - Strand Bar

Live music: Swagman Live DJ: Cullens Vinyl Night with DJ FLESH - Rafferty's bar The Saturday Sessions with Resident Djs McHughs The Duggan Brothers 10.30 PM - The Harp

The Bad Plus has a legion of fans worldwide who love their creativity, unique sound and flair for live performance. Their last Sligo performance was an all-time Hawk’s Well highlight, so it is with much anticipation we welcome them back for this year’s festival. “It’s about as badass as highbrow gets” Rolling Stone Part of the Sligo Jazz Festival 2014 Tues 22 July, 8pm €20/18conc.

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 34

Sun, July 27

MUSIC

Sunday Mass: McGarrigles Lunchtime Jazz with the Jazz Ladds: 1pm The Clarion Bluemoose unplugged session: Garavogue

Live Music: Owenmore The Sunday Special with Resident Djs - McHughs Trad Session: Snug Vegas Night with Scruffy Duffy: Fiddler's Trad night: Donaghy's Traditional session Fureys Tropicana Musica - Sligo Jazz Festival Wrap Party 5th on Teeling

Live music: Swagman Celtic Note - Irish House Special guests & Dj Live DJ: Shenanigans Out of towners 9.30pm Fureys Kieran Quinn & Seamie O' Dowd - Hargadons The Shindiggers from 6-8 - Harp Tavern Live music at 7 PM Strand Bar

PICK OF THE WEEK

‘Musicians out of context’ @ The Hawkswell Theatre

Artists: Heidi Wickham & Tom O'Rourke Exhibition ‘Musicians Out of Context’ explores the idea of taking musicians away from their normal habitat of the stage, theatre or bar and re-thinking them in other locations. This collection plays on the idea that musicians making music can transform an environment just by the nature of their craft, and to that end, every location becomes their stage.Thurs 31 July – Mon 1 Sept

Mon, July 28

MUSIC Open Mike Night: Furey's Trad Session from 9pm: Snug Trad night: Donaghy's Live music: Shoots Rackhouse Pilfer: McGarrigles Industry Night: Garavogue Open Mic with Dean Mahon & Rory O'Dowd: The Dunes Tavern, Strandhill Traditional Irish Folk Session - McHughs Seamie O'Dowd - 5th on Teeling

Thurs, July 31

MUSIC Trad Session: Earleys Trad Session: Shoots

Cuban Dawn: Swagman Trad night: Earley's Fireside Sessions: Barrys Gerry Grennan and friend - Hargadons The Rocketmen: Fiddlers

MUSIC

Trad Sessions 10pm Shoot the Crows Craic Addicts: The Swagman

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE LISTED HERE, EMAIL info@sligonow.ie

Wed, July 30

MUSIC

No Crows - Shoot the Crows Grooveology: Swagman Trad: McLaughlins Dj Lee Ward: Shenanigans Midweek Madness with Open Mic: Fureys Trad night: Border Collie Open Mic: Fureys White Gorillas: Fiddlers

MUSIC 2 For 1 Fridays! 2 For 1 Drinks - 5th On Teeling.

John L: Foleys

Anything goes Hargadons

Live DJ: Shenanigans Out Of Towners: Fureys Fergal Harman: Fiddlers “Live & Late” Garavogue That Friday Feeling with Resident Djs - McHughs

Tues, July 29

Live Music: Shenanigans Trad Session: Roisin Dubh, Gurteen Trad Session: Fureys Banging Yolks: Chasin’ Bull Bundoran

Fri, August 1

241 drinks with Dj Scruffy Duffy: Garavogue Hugh O’Neil: Fureys Gerry Grennan and Georgie Gorman in Residence - Hargadons Resident Djs from 10pm McHughs

DJ PC: Swagman Trad Night: TD's Bar Trad Night 10pm: Foley's Trad night: Durkins Ballinacarrow DJ Ambros: Rafferty's The McAndrews Fiddlers Tom Eaton & Amy Conroy: The Dunes Tavern, Strandhill Accoustic Session 10pm Fureys

Live music at 10.30 PM Strand Bar

Sat, August 2

MUSIC

Norman Jay - 5th On Teeling.

Live Music: The Pier Head, Mullaghmore

Dj Raff: Shenanigans Seamus & Friends: Foleys Trad Sessions - Fureys Live Music: TD’s Francie Lenehan and The Stratpack - Harp Tavern

The Connectors – SKA band: Rafferty's Live Music - Fiddlers Live Music 10pm: Snug Mass - Garavogue Unstable: Fiddlers

Sun, August 3

MUSIC Live Music: The Pier Head, Mullaghmore Sunday Mass: McGarrigles Live DJ: Shenanigans

Lunchtime Jazz with the Jazz Ladds: 1pm The Clarion Bluemoose unplugged session: Garavogue Live Music: Owenmore

The Sunday Special with Resident Djs - McHughs The Strap Pack, After Off Off the Hook - Kennedy’s Out of towners 9.30pm Fureys Kieran Quinn & Seamie O' Dowd - Hargadons

Live music at 7 PM - Strand Bar

Live music at 10.30 PM Strand Bar

Vinyl Night with DJ FLESH - Rafferty's bar Smile - Kennedy’s

Suggar Rush - Kennedy’s

Trad night: Donaghy's The Quay Street Band Harp Tavern Celtic Note - The Irish House

FREE DELIVERY SERVICE TO BALLISODARE & COLLOONEY Offer Valid until August

Main Street, Collooney 07191 18010

July 2014• Sligo Now Magazine • Page 35

O

ne of the greatest challenges that Electric Green is facing is finding time to simply meet up to plan our next step. Our busy lives meant that for June we simply had to do our challenges alone.

Vanessa only had three days off from various work commitments during the month of June and that was to hit the road and go to an amazing festival called Body & Soul. This is the weekend that Amy was also going to cycle the Greenway cycle so we decided to base our challenges around what we were already doing.

On June 21st Amy peddled the 58km through the magical Mayo countryside encompassing everywhere from Achill Island, Newport, Mulranny and Westport. The scenery was breathtaking, the people she met along the way were warm and friendly and the cycle was manageable. Amy enjoyed her challenge and would highly recommend Ireland’s green camino to anyone.

There are routes for all abilities and you can even hire an electric bike if you feel like coasting for a portion of the journey.

For Vanessa’s challenge Amy decided that she should try to get 58 hugs while at Body and Soul. The strange figure of 58 was to mirror the

amount of kilometres she would cycle over the weekend. Anyone who knows Vanessa knows that she’s not the greatest lover of hugs especially from strangers so Vanessa was not filled with glee for this challenge. All 58 hugs have been documented and can be checked out on our blog.

Some people were very enthusiastic as you can imagine and it makes for some funny viewing. With regards Body & Soul in my opinion it is the without a doubt the best festival in Ireland at the moment and while Vanessa does not want it to get busier she highly recommends everyone to attend at some point.

May Challenge//Fleadh Mob song writer Maggie Kilcoyne.

We took part in our first flash For our challenge we had to mob at Strandhill’s People’s dance in front the shoppers at Market. We enlisted the help the Strandhill market. Sarah of our now resident film maker and her crew started the Louise Sexton and the lovely festivities with a flash mob to Sarah Middleton and her Beat Michael Jackson’s Love Never It Dance Crew. Bernard Hayes Felt So Good which mixed into helped us pick music for our a Riverdance number. The girls trad fusion event and we stole the audience members’ decided to go with the song hearts. Then it was our turn!

Electric Landlady for our part Check out our blog to see of the performance. Bernard what happened put us in touch with Dee from Kila and Vanessa Scanlon & Amy Conroy she was delighted to be on board playing the tune and was very eager to take part in the dance also. We also enlisted the help of local musicians Colette Sheerin, Austrian, Claudia Schwab and singer

Personality of the Month June: Seamus McGoldrick aka Shambles Liquid anthropologist, eco warrior, positivity ambassador.

Shambles is something of a local legend in Sligo. He is not only one of the best body boarders in the land; he is also a talented musician, writer, eco warrior and one of the most humble individuals we have ever met.

Shambles lives and breathes the word challenge. Some of you may have bore witness to the massive waves that crashed into the headland at Mullaghmore in January of this year. If you were there that day you would have seen brave souls being towed by jet skis into massive slabs of water in order to surf waves three stories high. Pan to the rocky cliff side and you would have seen Shambles and Connor Flannigan (another local charger) paddle out old

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 36

school style to catch their own monster of a wave. The most iconic image of that day was a shot of Shambles cascading down the face of a massive wave, frog legged and plummeting to the reef below. Did he take it on the head, yes. Would he have done it again, yes. When he isn’t dropping in on 30ft waves he is doing his bit for the local community and is an ambassador for numerous charity groups including Darkness Into Light and Rennafix Group.

You are always is good company with Shambles, whether he is regaling you with stories of his latest surf adventures, belting out a tune on the banjo or rallying people to do their bit for the environment

With more shops than ever, Johnston Court is The Place to Shop

All the Best Brands, in the heart of Sligo

Johnston Court, O’Connell Street, Sligo • www.johnstoncourt.ie

Ciara Frahill, Orla Kernan, Ellen Murphy and Rebecca Friel

Majella Healy, Thomas Healy, Alicia Wherity & Sarah Healy

Karen Mahon & Gemma McDonagh

Marcella and Tara Una McGarry, Amy McMorrow, Ruth Ann Kelly and Chantelle Delaney

Seamus, Noleen, Liam, Seamie Jnr and Ava Thompson

Kerry Larkin, Esther Bell, Christian Larkin, Joani Graca Navacco, Laura Dunne and Ken Gunning

Robert O'Donnell & Barbara Tosi

Emma Ryan and Sharon Gallagher

Vanessa Barr, Emer Martin and Sarah Lindsay

Anita McGuinness, Amanda Curley and Caitriona

Emily Burns, Marie Ruane and Peter Howey

Rian Fahy and Steven Cawley

A

Carrie McCarthy and Grace Kivlehan

THE TOFFS COCKTAIL MIXOLOGIST TEAM - RORY, MITKO AND COLIN Fashiontini

Mango flavoured vodka, Strawberry Liquor, Freshly squeezed lemon, simple syrup, Strawberry pure Passion fruit coulee, Chocolate rim and fresh strawberry to garnish!!

It's delicious!

t Toffs Nightclub we find the consumer has becoming increasingly selective in their choice of drink and cocktails have really shot up in popularity. We have adjusted to the change in the market and now have two bars in the club with another in the Belfry that specialize in making cocktails. We have a team of cocktail mixologists that are fully trained and constantly work together in formulating new mouth-watering recipes for our customers. Mitko has won two Connaucht competitions and was runner-up in a national competition. He has been working on cocktail mixology for over 7 years now and flairing of cocktails for over a year. He loves thinking 'outside the box' making cocktails and recently came up with the very unique Rihanna cocktail presented on a dry-ice base - a really breathtaking cocktail

LOOKING GOOD,

SLIGO! T

he work of Sligo Tidy Towns has been the talk of the town this year, and is really kicking into gear with the impending Fleadh arriving in August. Kate Winter talks to Austin O'Callaghan about community spirit, creative thinking and the passion for Sligo Town that's driving it all.

Tell us a little about the Tidy Towns competition in general?

Most people hear tidy towns and think 'Picking up litter and hanging baskets'.

That's what seems to be the general consensus. I joined Sligo Tidy Towns last October and quickly came to discover that it's so much more than that. The Tidy Towns competition is actually running since 1958.

It's open to every city, town and village in the country, though you don't all compete directly against one another, there are categories and divisions which keep it fair.

There is one overall winner, of course, but there are lots of winners before that.

It seems like Sligo has only recently got on board with the idea of competing in the Tidy Towns, but it's really taking off, isn't it?

Sligo has been making a real impact in the past four years.

A lot of local businesses and people have gotten involved, wanting to make a difference. They've really rolled up their sleeves and

gotten down to work. And it's really moved up a gear this year. We've got reinforcements in, and we have a great committee of about thirteen or fourteen people who have all rolled in strongly behind our new chairperson, Jim Lawlor. These are people who are passionate about Sligo, it's as simple as that. The businesspeople in this town, for the most part, want to make a go of it. Even the sceptics, it's important to engage with them too; sometimes the most negative people can have some good ideas at the root of it all, and it's about getting them on board, hearing what they have to say too.

Do you think we have a genuine chance at winning?

We're realists, at the end of the day. It's not all about winning the overall competition, though that would be fantastic. We won't be winning it this year, let's put it that way. There's a lot still to

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 40

do. But we are aiming for it at some point of course, it's a goal. Most importantly though, we want to make a difference in our lovely town, we want to showcase it to its best potential. The judges could come anytime between June and July – that's why we're saying to people to please look after their own patch. It's important that everyone takes responsibility right down to an individual level.

Tell us about some of the key projects so far?

One of our first and most important key projects was engaging with the Sligo public. We had an open evening and we drew from an old volunteer list that hadn't seen the light of day in many moons. We just went out and talked to people, asked them for help, tried to get them on board in an enthusiastic way.

The Sligo Volunteer Centre were great for help with that.

They schooled us on how to encourage and hold on to top class volunteers. One of the biggest physical jobs was addressing the derelict buildings. Our buildings team, led by Des Faul, Declan McPartland and Dennis Fahey have done great work, without doubt some of the most noticeable around the town. The thing that's got the most attention is the Yeats mural, which sprung from a photograph Des had. The old hostel building on the junction of Lord Edward St and the Mid Block Route was in a mess, it

was one of the big building projects the team had pinpointed. So they went and painted it up and got it into a reasonable state, and that big gable wall stood out as a perfect location for a mural.

So Des took his photo and talked to Nick Purdy, who is a fantastic local artist, and that was it. We have another mural on Union St, done by Marian Noone, 'The Sligo Stag', which is another beautiful piece of work. It hasn't gotten the attention that the Yeats one did, but it's important and makes an impact just the same.

Do you see the Fleadh as something that will showcase all this hard work, or potentially knock you back a few steps?

The Fleadh is the biggest show in town this year by a long shot. We certainly want to be doing things to complement that. Of course, we are something separate and on the grand scale of things we have a slightly different aim, but there's no reason the two shouldn't come together in every way we can. It's all about Sligo town at the end of the day, isn't it? I mean, we're going to have 300,000 people coming here throughout the

course of August this year; a lot of people are going to see Sligo. And of course, how it looks is going to be important.

And I personally think the town is going to look better than it has in years.

Any hints on what's to come, future-plans wise?

Well, in terms of the murals, look out for a whale potentially cropping up somewhere interesting! And we're planning a "street jam" next month. There've been a couple of issues with graffiti in some areas of the town, but rather than us go and give out to the people involved, we're instead going to engage with them and ask them to fall in with us. We hope to offer them a space to actually showcase some real skilled graffiti art. So we're working on having a day where we all get together and transform some prominent area of the town with these guys. Another project coming in the future is shop window displays – all those empty retail outlets with barren windows – we're working with students to put together some beautiful artistic displays for such places. We want to get more involved with schools as well, to bring the younger members of our community on board.

Before

We're planning on having not only a Tidy Towns Committee, but a Junior Tidy Towns Committee working alongside us in 2015. Hopefully that will encourage them to take a responsibility and an interest in future generations.

Do you have any stand out supporters or local businesses who are going above and beyond?

There are a staggering number of small businesses which are of huge support to us. And Abvie, in terms of big business, have been incredible too. So many different groups have gotten on board, some literally! Like

Dave O'Hara, who got involved with his team, doing SUP litter collections, completely off their own bat.

This is a serious voluntary effort that is driven by one thing: improving Sligo Town. Our rational is simple.

If Sligo looks great it will attract more visitors, who will spend more and talk more about Sligo, which will attract more business, which will help the economy, all the while helping the environment too.

At the end of the day we would love to win the competition, but it's far more important in the grand scale of things that Sligo is at its best.

...and after!

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 41

Roisin Leydon, Sonya Coffey, Amanda McCloat and Helen Maguire

Joyce Enright, Eilish Gray and Anthony Gray

Vanessa O'Donovan, Jim Lawlor and Geraldine Dolan

Brian Roche and Paula Scallon

Denise Kenna & Ann Clinton

Fleadh Cheoil Programme to have broad appeal

D

etails have been announced in relation to the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann programme, which will take place in Sligo later on this Summer.

From outdoor concerts on the Gig Rig with Sligo favourites Dervish to a series of Fleadh Fusion events presented by Music Generation to gala concerts such as the Boroimhe and De Cuellar Suites, Fleadh 2014 promises to be a superb mix of concerts, sessions, exhibitions, lunchtime readings & recitals and different eclectic events which will appeal to the broad church of Fleadh visitors to Sligo this August 10th-17th. Speaking ahead of the official Fleadh Cheoil 2014 launch on June 21st, Chairperson of Fleadh Cheoil 2014 Bartley Gavin said that “Sligo is open to visitors from all over the world this Summer.

We think that the Fleadh programme offers something for everyone. The musicians will have scope for playing music on the streets or in the pubs, concerts will cater for a wide range of traditional

music fans, and we also want to create a carnival atmosphere in the town to make sure that everyone will return home with great memories, not just of the Fleadh itself, but of Sligo.”

Some of the Fleadh highlights include concerts, pageants, a Fleadh river festival, street theatre, lectures and exhibitions, competitions, street sessions and much more besides. And in this regard, programme director Rhona McGrath says that the focus will be on returning to the roots of the Fleadh by providing space and access to musicians who want to play on the streets in impromptu sessions, a key part of the traditional Fleadh.

“Anyone who knows Sligo will be aware of the great tradition of music in the county. We want to revisit the theme of the rambling house made famous by the likes of Michael Coleman by encouraging pubs, hotels and restaurants to open their doors to musicians, and as the entire centre of Sligo will be closed to traffic, this means that there will be plenty of

opportunities for musicians to set up on the streets as well,” she says.

The Fleadh will be bookended by the Peace III Colmcille street pageant which takes place on the opening day of the festival, while the Peace III Carnival will end Fleadh 2014 with a spectacular closing ceremony which will take place along the banks of the Garavogue River, which runs through the centre of town.

During the week, visitors can take in any number of fringe events such as workshops covering many aspects of traditional Irish music from instrument making to expert tuition, to guided walks and tours of Sligo’s most iconic historical sites like the megalithic tombs of Carrowmore, the climb to the top of Knocknarea and walks around Sligo Abbey – to name but 3 locations that lie on Sligo’s doorstep – and a large number of family and youth-focussed events such as the trad disco, youth Céilí and much more.

Then you’ve got the competitions. Up to 10,000

musicians are expected to descend on Sligo to compete at all levels and in all age groups, from individual musicians to Grúpaí Ceoil, and one of the highlights is certain to be the annual AllIreland Céilí Band Competition, which takes place at the Knocknarea Arena on Fleadh superSunday, a fitting way to close the competitions for this year.

All in all, it looks like Fleadh 2014 will appeal to the huge numbers of people expected to travel to Sligo this Summer.

And it’s hard to think of a more spectacular setting for the Fleadh. With blue flag beaches located just minutes from the town centre, golf clubs, riding stables, walking trails and every other conceivable outdoor pursuit on Sligo’s doorstep – just take a look at the Fleadh Promotional video to check out some of the options available - and the Fleadh itself taking place in the shadow of Ben Bulben, one of Ireland’s most iconic mountains, Sligo looks set to be a spectacular celebration of our culture and music.

Sweet Meadow Unique floral arrangements right on our doorstep

Words and Photos: Leonie Cornellius

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 40

Meadow inspired floral arrangements

H

ere in the North West we are surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscape around. Our stunning seaside landscapes, lush fields and incredible wild meadows are spectacularly beautiful, particularly at this time of the year when the mad, changeable weather is ideal for the sprouting of all types of meadow plants. My friend and I went for a picnic in one of these meadows the other day and the beautiful plants we found inspired me to create some meadow arrangements in some old bottles.

GET THE LOOK Chosen Plants The great thing about these arrangements are that anything goes. From trees such as the water loving Salix varieties that grow wild in Ireland to the fluffy wild carrot, the pretty forget me-nots that dot the ground amongst the grasses to the lovely Saxifraga with their tiny pink dotted

centres (my friend Kate’s favourite), it really is the more natural the better.

Initially on the walk we were feeling a little dissapointed, not much out there at this time of the year and all that. But what you actually do find once you look a little more closely is incredible. The joy of collecting for small glass bottles such as the ones I have here is that the smallest branch or grass head becomes a composition. Look at the catkins on the Willow tree cuts in the picture to the left. Do we ever really notice these on the tree? The grass plumes, just part of a meadow, are featured in a group to stand out in their own right, colours and textures subtly highlighted. When collecting do watch out for plants that are poisonous like Hemlock or Foxgloves!

Glass Bottles These glass bottles are a collection of small delicate items that were found while digging in the garden. Little

treasures that as a collection become a really visual and pretty arrangement.

I love that every bottle has a history of some sort...who owned them? What was in that tiny bottle that is only 3cm tall, and how long ago? It’s the story that fascinates me. You can get them at almost every jumble sale or charity shop....or digging in your garden.... definitely worth collecting if you love plants like me.

PLANTS Salix I love the catkins on willow at this time of the year. They are fluffly little downey flowering spikes of different shades of green, lime green and pale yellow. So subtle in an arrangement.

Aquilegia Aqulegia, or Columbine is a flower that is very pretty and can be found growing wild in many places in Ireland. It often grows by the side of the road where it has seeded itself. The variety of colours is amazing.

Wild Carrot Wild and sea Carrots are lovely plants with umbellifer shaped flower heads. The perfectly shaped fluffy heads of these fascinate me. This and the fact that they grow absolutely everywhere and yet we never really see them.

Leonie Cornelius is an award winning garden designer who runs her own business-BLUME design house.

You can catch her as the TV Mentor for the new Supergarden Show on RTE. Contact: www.blume.ie

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 41

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ARTOPIA WITH ZARA McDAID W

elcome to ARTopia. I want to take this opportunity and open the column by introducing myself. I grew up in the small picturesque village of Ramelton, Co. Donegal and have been living in the beautiful Co.Sligo for the past five years. I have always had a love and passion for Art from a very young age. Growing up I used to spend hours sketching, painting and creating. My parents are very creative people with a love of painting and the arts and they have always encouraged my artistic nature. My studies brought me to Belfast where I studied a BA (Hons) in fine Art painting at University of Ulster, Belfast. Shortly after I completed my Higher Diploma in Art Education at the Crawford college of Art and Design in Co. Cork. I have been working as a secondary school Art teacher since.

As well as working as an art teacher I write a weekly column called ‘Art Scene’ in the Donegal News newspaper which features local arts projects, artists, exhibitions, my creative D.I.Y tips to art in the classroom. As well as that, I am a practising artist and have

exhibited throughout Ireland.

My most recent exhibition was in the Wandesford Quay Art gallery, Co. Cork. I am currently working on commissions and a new series of work during my summer holidays. In 2012, my work was selected for an exhibition in Times Square New York in and was displayed on the iconic Times Square billboards. This spurred me on to start my own blog ‘Zara Mc Daid Art’ on facebook which progressed to blogspot. The aim of my blog is to share my ideas, tips, artwork and to inspire people to be creative. I have been very lucky to have to my work featured in nationwide magazines such as ‘Ooh La La magazine’, ‘Image magazine as well as the Irish Times. The aim of my Art is to create Art to reawaken our senses to the luxury and brilliance of a fine moment in glamour, of haute couture, to the refinement of a stunning scene. I create Art that is drenched in high fashion reverie in the unmistakeable allure of cinematic moments. In my work I like to convey a

narrative by providing elements for the viewer to piece together into his or her own story. My work can be very versatile at times, from very loose expressive city scapes to very detailed, restrained portrait paintings which I feel helps keep things interesting for me as an artist.

Like Donegal artist Dolores Dunleavy I don’t like to get bogged down on a particular style, although for the past year my work has featured young women and fashion quite a bit. I also dabble from time to time in jewellery making and being a keen

fashion lover, also D.I.Y fashion and upcycled pieces.

This column is intended to promote Art, crafts, artists and all things creative in Co.Sligo. I aspire to create a very broad view of the art scene in Sligo in order to cater for everyone’s tastes and interests. Each month will feature something different. I hope you enjoy my column & look forward to hearing from you.

I can be found on facebook ‘www.facebook.com/zaramc daidart, my webpage is www.zaramcdaidart.blogspot.ie and email is zaramcdaid@hotmail.com

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July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 48

La Vie en

Mode I

WITH TRÍONA O'DONNELL

ntroducing: La Vie en Mode, my brand new column for 'Sligo Now'. Last summer, my style blog 'modaFix' featured in the June issue and now I'm thrilled to be part of the magazine's dream team of writers. By day, I am a linguist, hence the romance language references, and by night, I write about and explore fashion.

About ‘modaFix’ ModaFix is brought to you from Ireland's west coast. It's your local source of style inspiration and innovative styling ideas, all the while showcasing local, Irish designers and influences. It's a celebration of both style and lifestyle.

‘Moda’ is the Spanish term for ‘fashion’ and for any addicts, this is where you will source your daily ‘fix’.

I grew up here in Sligo, immersed in a community of talented designers, makers

and fellow creatives on the Northwest coast of Ireland.

We’re inspired by our surroundings, the majestic landscape, culture and people.

Anyone who reads my online blog or follows my social media channels knows that my brand 'modaFix' was born from my appreciation of this vibrant community, regularly supporting and promoting our local designers and jewellery/accessory makers.(see barefoot sandals

by Sarah J Jewellery)

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 50

In recent months, modaFix has flourished, expanding into retail and commercial outlets.

I now work alongside some great local, independent stores including Ruby Lane, The Vintage Loft, and Rachel Murray Eyecare.

ModaFix has further evolved from solely fashion blogging to reviewing beauty and skincare products for local, national and international brands and entities such as Kinvara (available locally at Kate’s Kitchen), Mememe Cosmetics (available locally at Nicholson's Pharmacy) and Georgia Jane skincare to name but a few. Currently, I am working with David McConville Orthodontics on a series of vlogs (video diaries) to showcase their Invisalign braces.

DIY Moreover, 'modaFix' is an outlet for my creative impulses and interest in all things style related. From time to time, I get creative urges and outbursts and feel the need to create or upcycle something.

Upcycling is something I have been doing for several years recreating garments and jewellery. Aged 19, I had a jewellery stall at Spitalfields Upmarket in London and used to make and sell my own jewellery while at school and university. Check out some of my garments namely: distressed denim, upcycled tshirt, headpiece and clashing printed dress I made.

Personal Style I would describe my personal style as original, playful and ever-evolving. I love to experiment with looks and the fun thing about fashion is that you can reinvent yourself daily and it's accessible to everyone. Although I enjoy dressing up, I really love casual, disheveled, effortless looks. Inspiration comes from the sea and local surf culture around County Sligo.

I don't like anything too preened or 'perfect' looking.

It's those perfect imperfections and rough edges that I find most appealing.

The people around me locally and on my travels are a constant, daily source of style inspiration. Due to a keen interest in Hispanic culture and language learning, I have travelled extensively and my third level education gave me the opportunity to live in beautiful cities including: Seville, Bath, Dublin

sometimes overrule intellect.

When you have a passion, it eats you up inside, it just doesn't go away, until eventually you have to do something about it.

and Edinburgh, with regular trips to London. Street-spotting has greatly influenced my personal style over the years. I love style hunting, style spotting and style snapping on my travels and sharing these experiences with my like-minded readers.

Education

Risk My Facebook page started as a hobby last year, I set it up in response to this passion, as a means of expressing myself. I took a risk. I now really enjoy what I do and I'm hopeful in pursuing this avenue. It takes time to find an ideal career path, it takes some longer than others and personally, I've always taken the scenic route!

I get bouts of self-doubt, as I am effectively my own brand.

But I'm learning to just go with it as people are generally surprisingly nice, positive about modaFix and forthcoming.

ModaFix is becoming a credible and reputable brand.

The rise of blogging Blogging is about writing about your passion. It's about sharing an interest and developing a community around that. I’m lucky in that my work with ModaFix now helps to generate a local buzz about young businesses, new products and offerings.

Education is very important to me and my family. My background is in business, language translating, interpreting and teaching.

Education creates opportunity and, like I mentioned in my article last year, investment in education never depreciates.

Having said that, passion, creativity and intuition

As a blogger, I’m definitely aware that you are in a position of influence - the concept is simple: the people on the street are walking advertisements for products and style, I’ve always maintained this. For example: you see someone with a 99 or a can of Coke and then you want one. We no longer look to models or celebrities. We trust people that we can relate to. I like to think I'm approachable and a face that my readership and demographic can trust.

Business people see the value in fashion and lifestyle bloggers as we reach a young demographic that other media no longer can and struggle to reach. Daily, we discuss among friends where we got a particular garment or piece of jewellery or where we went for lunch. We share experiences. This is what I do, but now to a wider audience.

The response has been overwhelmingly positive.

A very special thanks to Starling Digital Media Direction for their invaluable help and direction setting up my brand, teaching me how to manage a Facebook page and building my website modafix.ie.

La Vie en Mode So, what to expect from La Vie en Mode?

Well, my interests are vast and varied. Expect image heavy content, style ideas, looks for less, DIY fashion and a slice of the lifestyle that I love. I will continue to promote my favourite local designers and stores as well as emerging young entrepreneurs of Sligo and of our generation.

Celebrate your day in style and stay tuned to get your moda fix.

Love, T xo If you like my sense of style, check out my online wardrobe on Depop where I regularly sell my pre-loved garments. Username: @modafix.

If you’d like your designs or business featured in my column, or if you have any upcoming promotions that you need help with, contact me on: modafixblog@gmail.com or find @modafix on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter (@moda_fix).

I’ll also be looking for local models to style, so send a mail my way if you’re interested.

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 51

Janice Curran, Aileen Monaghan, Stacey Monaghan, Anita Feeney, Michelle Feeney, Majella Melly and Marion Flannery

Tony Ward, Mary Quinn, Una McGinley, Mary Kilfeather & Frank Morrison

Ciara McMorrow & Deirdre Kelly

Sharon Higgins & Marie Perry

Breege Fox & Melissa Casserly

.Siobhan Brennan & Sarah Davey

Cliodhna McGuire, Caroline McLoughlin, anna Maria Tolan, Orlagh Sharkey, Niamh Ni Mhurchu, Attracta Higgins, Nicole McGuinness, Elaine McBride, Bernadette Kelly, Orla Moran and Helaine Trimble

Marian Flannery, Loyola Kelly, Mary Casserly & Melissa Casserly

Barbara Patel, Alex Muschketat and Monica Burns

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Sligo’s annual celebration of cultural diversity and inclusion

C

airde Arts Festival is back again and this year like every other year be prepared for an exciting selection of events including theatre, circus, music from all over the world, percussion and song, conversation salons, food trails and more. Last year the festival brought thousands of people to various events throughout Sligo town and this year Sligo will once again transform into a kaleidoscope of exciting & colourful cultural fun and entertainment from July 6th to 13th.

The annual Park Fest, is without a doubt the highlight of the Cairde Arts Festival. A day long celebration of circus, aerial theatre, music, arts, craft, food and good times – Park Fest is one massive FREE

celebration suitable for all ages and everyone is invited. Last year the event brought in crowds of over 3,000 people throughout the day which has become renowned for a great range of entertainment. This year’s Park Fest features Tumble Circus, Custard Pie Puppet Theatre, The Irish National Clown Orchestra of Ireland, Samboeire, and music from The Outoftowners, Dean Gurrie, Moth Electric and Trollschtenk, Wagamuffin and more. Bring your picnic blanket to Sligo’s Peace Park on Sunday July 6th and prepare for a feast of good food and entertainment.

The family fun continues throughout the week with the Irish National Clown Orchestra of Ireland, Italian magician and theatre artist Omino, the Italian

Quarter Street Party, the Kid’s Global Disco and a range of high quality enterainment and fun for the little ones. For the first year, and in association with Music Generation Sligo, Cairde will run an inter-cultural percussion & song summer camp for kids which will run throughout the week and culminate in a performance at the Italian Quarter Street Party.

The Cairde Arts Festival is renowned for presenting an exceptional line up of world music and this year is no exception featuring Nigerian Irish band Tig Linn, French Carribean group Pitak, Sligo musicans Hugh O’Neill, Jim & Amy, and Old Hannah, Salsa at The Swagman and more. A particular highlight of this year’s programme is the ground breaking fusion of Baroque music and African soukous music with the musical collaboration, A Common Ground. Sligo Baroque Orchestra and Tropicana Musica have come together over the past few months to jointly find a ‘common ground’ whetre a new musical world can be created. The collaboration will feature exciting new compositions by Steve Wickham, who for a large part has orchestrated the coming together of these two very different musical worlds as

S

well as new compositions by the exceptional Conglese guitarist and one of the lead members of Tropicana Musica, Patrik Ramazani.

A Common Ground will be taking place just after the launch of this year’s visual art show, Cairde Visual. In past years Cairde has carefully invited artists to create an exhibition around a theme but this year Cairde decided to explore the idea of an open submission visual arts exhibition and for the show to be selected anonymously by a team of visual arts professionals.

The response was remarkable.

A great volume of submissions were received, enough to fill the the Hyde Bridge Gallery, where Cairde Visual is happening, twice over. The selection process was difficult according to the judging panel but what is left makes for an incredibly strong visual art exhibition. This year’s show boasts talent from artists all over Ireland and features a great variety of diverse mediums, techniques and styles. The exhibition runs throughout Cairde Arts Festival until Sunday July 20th at 6pm with the official launch open to the public taking place on July 8th at 6pm. For full information and booking log onto www.cairdefestival.com

ligo Summer Festival is delighted to announce that the Disco legends, Sister Sledge, will headline this years FREE festival. This promises to be Irelands biggest outdoor Disco and it is also Sister Sledge’ only Irish Festival appearance of 2014!

With hits like We are Family, Thinking of You, Lost in Music, Frankie and lots more, it promises to be a night of classic hits and dancing on the street.

Sligo Summer Festival, now in its third year, has already successfully hosted two hugely attended festivals in 2012 and 2013. It has attracted thousands of people in the last two years and this promises to be the biggest of all as this is the first time an International act has appeared.

Previous years has seen Ryan Sheridan, Bressie, The Saw Doctors, Sharon Shannon & Mundy headline with many other amazing Irish acts also grace the stage in what has become one of Irelands biggest festivals.

The festival runs for two nights on Friday August 8th and Saturday 9th 2014, and runs just before the World Fleadh hits Sligo on Sunday August 10th so the crowds are expected to be massive this year. The Saturday night boasts an amazing list of both national and local acts taking to the stage. The Riptide Movement take the headline slot so it promises to be an energetic feast of music to finish out of the festival. Check out Sligo Summer Festival on Facebook for full details!

Aoife Nicholson and Jennifer Gillen

Mary Coyne, Iris Murphy, Mary Dillon, Terry Golden, Ann Farrell and Gillian Farrell

Ronnie McGillen & Beezy McGowan

Margaret Gaughan & Eileen Mulcahy

Bobby Jones, Bernie Flynn, Paul Scanlon, Stephen Devany, Mickey Murray and Gerry Ryan

Linda Higgins, Sheila Gilhooly, Vanessa Foley, Fiona Fahey & Noelle McMorrow

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 48

Pamela Maher, Katie Maher and Christine Gillen

.Hanna Rodgers, Maura Green, Orla Hicholson, Rachel Kivlehan & Karen Hayes

Corinna Kierran, John Paul Carty and Natalie Flynn

Laura Dillon & Thomas Quinn

Orla O'Grady, Hayley O'Hara, Natalie O'Grady & Nina Singaroyna

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12 HOUSEMATES, 6 TRIALS, 4 DAYS Lisa Kerins

Mark Petson

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The Big Brother Housemates with Ballygawley Community Park Committee, Seamas Casey; Sligo Now - media sponsor and John Mc Keon: Petstop- main sponsor.

John Callaghan

Denise Quinn

Gary O’Reilly

ligos Big Brother will take place from 17-20th July in Ballygawley Village. 12 participants will enter the Big Brother House. The public will have their chance to have their say on the contestants through an online voting system. The whole show can be viewed live on www.visitballygawley.com The Big Brother garden will be open to the public from Friday 18th with a Kids movie being shown at 7pm. The garden will open at 1pm on the Saturday with live music from Ryan Hennessy and Tabby. You can catch up on the going on’s in the Big Brother house as it will be live on the GigRig, On Sunday the garden will also open at 1pm with music from 5 piece band BackWater Jack .

Over the course of the four days the contestants will take part in 6

Eoin Mc Dermott

June 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 58

trials, 2 of which will be outdoor and open to the public to view.The Big Brother Exit will happen around 7pm when they will make their way to a nearby hotel for a final festival party.

If the big brother experience is not for you there is plenty of other things going on over the weekend to keep all ages entertained.

On Saturday Stand-Up paddling will take place on Ballygawley Lake from 11am to 3pm for all ages (all you have to do is show up). Face painting, bouncing castles, games and a drumming workshop by Itchy Feet Drummers will keep the little ones entertained. The Road Safety Authority Shuttle Bus will be in attendance along with the very popular Farmyard in your School Yard. For any of the aspiring

Missing Housemates: Eire Gorman, Jackie Barry and John Hopper

Paddy McGoldrick

Rachel Allens there is The Sligo Bake Off to test your skills. Cakes need to be in the big brother garden by 1pm on Sunday the 20th for judging at 3pm. Kids enter FREE all weekend with an adult weekend ticket 15 euro available from Sligo Gate Collooney, Mc Tiernans Daybreak. Speaking to Thomas Walsh Chairperson of Big Brother, "this would not have been possible without our main Sponsor John Mc Keon from Petstop and Discount WareHouse in Carraroe and our media sponsor Seamas Casey from Sligo Now magazine, we thank them sincerely".

A shuttle bus service will be in operation from Sligo Town, Ballymote, Tubbercurry and Collooney. Cost 5 euro per person, please contact Dooley Express.

Cliodhna Curran

Tara Kelly

Yvette Raymond and Claire Stallard Michelle McCabe, Shannon McGahon, Dizzy Handamen and Jennifer White

Jack McCloskey, Shane Burns, Brendan Henry, Ruth Walsh and Clare McIntyre

Peter Hanna and Eamon Ryan

Lisa Flanagan, Brian Mullane, Danny Young, Jamie Carthy, Daragh Ginty, Madame Walsh, Maried Flanagan, Sue Baker and Chris Young

Open: Monday - Friday 11-9 • Saturday 11-7 • Sunday 2-6

PROFESSIONAL TANNING AND SLIMMING STUDIO

• Burn Fat, up to 1500kcl in 30 min • Reduce Cellulite • Drop 1 clothes size in one month

SPECIAL OFFER: 20x30min plus FREE 5x30min rollomassage... €130 BOOK YOUR FREE 15min TRIAL ON 0871123622

TANNING • FREE birthday tan • Every 6th tanning /course FREE

SPECIAL OFFER FOR ALL JULY every day from 2pm- 4pm 1 min Tanning only 50c PRICE LIST FOR TANNING COURSES 30min. €20 • 40min €25 • 70min. €43

Telephone: 086-6211792 • Mobile: 087-1123622 Quayside Shopping Centre (Second Floor), Wine Street, Sligo

Angelscopes F

iona Faery is an Irish Psychic Medium who unites people regularly with their loved ones in spirit & also offers psychic guidance with her Faery oracle card readings. She is a regular on Irish radio & has monthly columns in various publications. Fiona is known for her optimistic no-nonsense approach to life. She teaches workshops on mediumship and helps 'baby' mediums build their confidence & step into their power. Her spiritual poetry has found a home on her Facebook page; Fiona Faery where she posts a daily poem. Her poetry is aimed to motivate & empower, as Fiona believes in helping people connect with their soul purpose. She reads internationally through her website www.fionafaery.ie

Aries

Angel of Children : The angel if children is guiding you to spend some time with your own inner child. It's time to make time for laughter in your life. Contact an old friend or ring a current one and reminisce and catch up. Do something that would make your inner child smile such as buying an ice cream or listening to a favourite song.

Things have been to serious around you as of late. Allow the power of joy to fill your heart again as you let your inner child out to play. This can also mean an announcement of an arrival in the family.Lucky Day: 15th July Lucky colour: pink

Leo

Angel of new love : For those of you that are single, have faith as love is just around the corner. You may feel guided to go somewhere new, Take up a new hobby, try a new course. This is the universes way of giving Cupid a helping hand. For those of you in relationships romance is a very important aspect of a relationship, have a date night and plan some couple time.

Never forget love is the spice of life. Lucky Day: 11th Lucky colour: red

Sagittarious

Angel of listening The wonderful arch angel Michael makes his appearance felt in this card. You are being guided to speak your truth, you will find the courage when you seek it, for this angel is powerful ally to have by your side.

Are you also aware of what is being said around you? This angel encourages you to develop your listening skills and also helps you hear what is not being said as well...!

Lucky Day: 25th Lucky colour: navy

Taurus

Angel of new beginnings: It's time to turn a new page and begin a new chapter in your life. You are ready to move from the past and no longer dwell on old pain and resentment. New people and new opportunities are coming your way. It's time to rIse your hopes and expectations. Positivity is very important around you right now.

Only surround yourself with those that believe in you. Know at every ending is also a new beginning. Lucky Day: 17th Lucky colour: Brown

Virgo

Angel of enchantment This angel guides you to stay firm on your present course.

Have courage in your convictions.

You may need to dig your heels in.

Trust your gut and press ahead. You may need to bang very hard on the door of opportunity.

Take heart for the universe is listening.

September brings news of success.

Lucky Day: 18th Lucky colour: silver

Capricorn

Angel of ideas and inspiration This cherub of inspiration sits on your shoulders at present giving you eureka moments. You can either dismiss this or act on it! If you have been feeling stuck in a rut as of late this may be your guardians way of helping you break free for it. It's time to try something new. If you've been feeling blocked, this angel is also showing you a creative solution to the current problem you face.

Lucky Day: 28th Lucky colour: jade

Fri 20th June at 8pm In Sligo Cathedral

Andrew Reynolds Conductor, Eimear Reynolds Musical Director, James Wallace Accompanist Special Guests Charlie Mc Gettigan & Sandy Kelly With many more artists North West

Gemini

Angel of retreat : Sometimes we need time alone. This angel advises you that your thoughts may have become scattered and your feel unfocused as of late. Spend time alone in nature, go for a walk, listen to some music. You are capable of making this decision on your own. Your intuition only speaks to you in quiet moments. So make time for these quiet moments and start to listen.

Lucky Day: 21st Lucky colour: blue

Libra

Angel of serenity This angel guides you to seek peace and tranquility. For you may have become caught up the drudgery that is life. Take time to smell the flowers, go for a peaceful walk, listen to some music. Your soul cries out for some peaceful/restful solitude. It's time to step back and allow things to happen around you.

Take some long awaited me time.

Lucky Day: 16th Lucky colour: white

Aquarius

Angel of forgiveness: When you forgive, you realise the real prisoner had been you all along. For the prison is anger, pain and resentment. You are not responsible for other peoples issues but you can take responsibility in how you choose to handle your current situation. The more you focus on happiness. No positivity the more you attract people and all manner of events that attract this in to your life. On the other hand the more you focus on pain and betrayal the more people and situations of negativity will constantly barge you. It's time to let the past go and move into a happier future. Lucky Day: 19 Lucky colour: gold

Cancer

Angel of answered prayer: This beautiful angel has entered your spread to let you know heaven has heard your call.

Synchronistic events and people will enter your life as they are the universes way of answering your prayer. Try not to become to fixed or attached to how it is going to happen, simply trust that it will happen. Believe in your dreams and believe in the power of positive intentions. As the more fate and optimism you place the quicker your prayer will be answered!

Lucky Day: 29th Lucky colour: green

Scorpio

Angel of focus: This angel warns you of being over stressed and over worked. The angel of focus urges you to get your priorities in order. Notice the flowery garland in her lap, she's to pre occupied with others worries. It's time for you to look inward and focus on your own needs. It's time to clean house, start with your own!

Lucky Day: 24th Lucky colour: orange

Pisces

Angel of healing : The angel of healing comes around you, sending you blessings of abundance. The healing that is sent is emotional, physical and mental. She is also sending in a helpful friend or relative who will provide support and a shoulder to lean on. Angels come in all shapes and sizes and yours are coming in, in the shape of a trusted, loyal friend. Allow yourself to unburden you issues and develop a perspective on the issue your currently facing Lucky Day: 30th Lucky colour: moss green

Counselling Services for those who are having suicidal thoughts or who have been affected by suicide

TALK TO US 087-4188053

All calls will be answered by trained professionals in suicide prevention and intervention

Tickets €10 available from the North West Simon Community Office on 23 Mail Coach Rd, Sligo 071 9855005 & Ms Therapy Centre, Ballytivnan, Sligo 071 9144748 June 2013 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 38

Talk to us any time you like, in your own way, and off the record – about whatever’s getting to you.

You don’t have to be suicidal

Usual hours open to receive callers at the door 11:00am - 9:00pm Samaritans Sligo, 3 e Mall, Sligo Tel: 07191-42011 (Lo-call )1850 609090

Multi Award Winning

Indian Cusine McGarrigles, O'Connell St, Sligo Phone: 086-606-9007

Chefs Early Special

Fri & Sat 5pm to 7.30pm Sun to Thur 5pm to late 3 Courses €19.95 With Vegetarian Main Course €17.50 Open Monday to Sunday 5pm to Midnight Takeaway and Delivery Available

Bring your own Wine / Beer No Corkage Charge / No Service Charge

34 O'Connell St - Sligo Tel 071-9147171 Website: www.poppadom.ie

Come and view our newly refurbished Reception Area and Ballroom

Hosting weekly live music with bluegrass sessions on monday nights, Bluestacks jam club (open mic with full band set up & payed gig for best band on the night) on Tuesdays, traditional sessions on Thursday nights, and the infamous Sunday M.A.S.S, that’s the Massive Acoustic Sunday Sessions, every Sunday night.

Open for Lunch, daily specials available

Brian Fox moved in from the Waterfront Bar & Restaurant in Rosses point to the Crozon Inn in January 2014.

Seen an exciting opportunity to bring high quality food to the a busy venue in Sligo Town.

Hit the ground running and great support from the locals. A local man that knows the area well. Sports enthusiast, follows Sligo Rovers, Sligo GAA and goes Racing.

Friendly and efficient staff Very popular Sunday lunch.

Daily Dinner & Bar menus.

Summer menu additions in May. Outdoor seating area & Ample parking space.

Caters for parties and celebrations.

Shells is the perfect beach cafe, bright & airy with fabulous fairtrade coffee.

Brunch is a must and includes eggs benedict & freshly baked bread.

With wonderful wines and an organic Prosecco, this is a real gem. The Shells Little Shop, next door, is a treasure trove of jewellery, gifts, art and of course our Homemade range of deli delights.

Beachfront, Strandhill Tel: 071-9122938 www.shellscafe.com

Hargadons, a traditional pub, which also incorporates a busy restaurant, up to the minute kitchen facilities and top class chefs, producing lunch and evening meals Monday to Saturday, ensuring that Hargadons is a hive of activity all day long.

Simply a Great Pint!

Simply a Great Local!

Birthday? Anniversary? Christening?

Engagement? 21 Again?

Graduation? Gathering?

Having a Party or Special Occasion?

WE HAVE THE BEST PArTy rATES in TOWn!

Entertainment Every Weekend!

Live TV Sport BT Sport, Setanta Sports, Sky Sports All Live on Widescreen TV Tel: 071-9157347 086-6007575 Maugheraboy, Sligo

e Viage Coffee Shop

Open 6 Days a Week

Lunch Specials for only €8.90 All main courses are served with soup as a starter

Live Music Every Thursday & Friday from 10.00pm See you in Hargadons for a Pint O’Connell Street, Sligo. www.hargadons.com Michelin Eating Out In Pubs Guide 2013

PLEASE CONTACT US FOR OUR TAKEAWAY MENU

Vegetarian dishes available

All sausages are freshly prepared by & purchased from Sherlock Butchers, Ballisodare

The Village Coffee-Shop - Town & Country Clothing – Gifts & Crafts

Main Street, Ballisadare, Co. Sligo Telephone: 071 916 74 17 Open Monday to Friday - 10am to 5pm / Saturday from 10am to 3pm - Free WiFi

THE

OWENMORE INN

ThE

Irish

COLLOONEY, CO. SLIGO TEL: 071-9167105

hOuSE

Live Music Every Saturday & Sunday

• PARTIES CATERED FOR • PRIVATE FUNCTIONS

Live Games on TV

AVAILABLE

• LIVE SPORTS EVENTS ON OUR BIG SCREEN • LIVE MUSIC EVERY

Parties Catered for Tel: 071-9142003 O’Connell Street, Sligo

WEEKEND

the harp tavern Est 1761

LIVE MUSIC EVERY WEEKEND

Great music Excellent food served Live major sporting events Warm friendly atmosphere

Tel: 071 9142473 Quay Street, Sligo

Fiddlers Creek Bridge Street, Sligo 071-91-46799

Having a Party?

21st, Christening, After Wedding, Work parties, Hen parties, Stag Parties, Family Occasions & Graduation SHEnAniGAnS FOr THE COMPLETE niGHT OUT EAT, DrinK Or DAnCE!

Entertainment @ Fiddlers

Every Wednesday night The White Gorillas Every Thursday night The rocketman Every Sunday night Scruffy Duffy

Rockwood Parade, Sligo • Tel: 071 914 1866

www.fiddlerscreek.ie

With Eoghan Doherty of the Embassy Steakhouse, Sligo

Fresh potted crab salad with sourdough toast and balsamic dressing

T

his is a dish which is perfect for a summer starter or snack which is easy to prepare yet flavoursome and healthy. You can ask your local fish supplier for fresh crab meat or buy frozen and defrost naturally in fridge over night..

You will need; 150g fresh (cooked) crab meat, 60g real butter, 1 lemon, 1 cup olive oil, 3tbl spoons balsamic vinegar,1 tbl spoon honey , 1 clove garlic (puree), sour dough bread roll , fresh chives and/or basil, salt, cracked black pepper and Mesclun salad leaves(or whatever salad is handy).

Method First prepare the crab by placing butter, chives

and a tiny bit of garlic in a cold pot and place on a very low heat, melting slowly. Just as the butter starts to sizzle add in the crabmeat and stir gently for one minute on medium heat. While doing this add a pinch of salt and black pepper and a squeeze of fresh lemon. Remove from heat and divide in 3 or 4 portions in a small glass or ramekin. Set aside in fridge and allow to set for 15 minutes.

Next prepare the easy balsamic dressing by adding in a bowl, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey and garlic. Mix together and add a small pinch of salt and pepper. Place in fridge until serving.

To make the toast, cut the sourdough bread roll in slices and rub a garlic clove on the bread

before toasting it under the grill.

To assemble just dress your salad leaves with a

small bit of dressing and place on a plate. The salad can be garnished with tomato or onion

where desirable. Place potted crab and the toast with salad and enjoy.

Salmon fillet, hake, cod (cut in small chunks), mussel meat, prawns, scallops, crab claws. All of which should be available at most supermarkets and fish mongers.

This dish works with a variety of fish and seafood and the pasta can also be flexible by using spaghetti.

20 minutes while stirring continually. After the simmering remove from heat and taste. You can add lemon and lime juice or chilli flakes salt or pepper just to balance flavours to your liking.

Prepare the seafood on a small baking tray with a little butter, salt and pepper and lemon juice and place in hot oven (180.c) for 5 minutes.

It is best to cook pasta in advance and cool in cold water as you can add quickly at the end of assembly.

Once the previous steps have been taken assembly is easy. Simply place pasta and sauce in a pan to heat and gently add seafood.

Place in a bowl to serve and garnish with parmesan and basil and enjoy.

Fresh seafood diablo over linguine pasta

W

ith an abundance of seafood available almost on or doorstep why not try this impressive pasta dish which is healthy and a great energy fuel for the body and mind. It can be spiced to your liking and the tomato based sauce can be used for many other dishes to avoid wastage.

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 56

You will need; 1 small tin of chopped tomatoes, 1 onion, 1 clove of garlic, 1 tea spoon of chilli flakes, 2 tbl spoons caster or brown sugar, 3 drops of tobacco sauce, fresh thyme and basil, 1 lemon and lime, white wine, vegetable stock(cube is ok), linguine pasta, salt and cracked black pepper, shaved parmesan.

Method First dice the onion and garlic and add to a pre heated pot with a little olive oil and sprig of thyme. Sweat until almost brown and add a ½ cup of dry white wine. Let this reduce for two minutes then add the chopped tomato, stock liquid, tobacco sauce, sugar, chilli flakes, salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer on medium heat for 15 to

WINE GUIDE

Wine of the Month for July

with The Wine Buff, Tobergal Lane, The Italian Quarter Tel: 071 9140020 • www.thewinebuff.com Email: joe@thewinebuff.com

W

elcome to our ‘Wine of the Month’ column where, each month, we will tell you about a delection of red and a white wines.

CHATEAU BEAUBOIS

HERVE MATHELIN ROSE CHAMPAGNE

Summer wines At the Wine Buff we are passionate about bringing quality priced wines to all our customers.

BACCICHETTO CARISACCO ROSE Price: €13.95 Wine Region: Friuli Country: Italy Grape Variety: Merlot, Cabernet, Refossco Type: Sparkling Style: Light Bodied Alcohol Content:11%

This light frizzante (11%) is made using traditional Rose wine making methods. It has a light red fruit aromas with a fresh clean taste of raspberries and strawberries. The vineyard is situated in the more southern part of the Friuli region, between the inlets of the River Stella in the village of Borgo Titiano near Precenicco. Vittorino Baccichetto founded the business with his wife Anita, and they passed down to their sons Paolo and Alessandro all the sense of duty and respect for their antique traditions: experience built up over time and work and healthy love for the land

Price € 13.95 Wine Region: Rhone Valley Country: France Grape Variety: Syrah, Grenache, Cinsault Type: Rose Style: Light to Medium Bodied Alcohol Content:13% Organic Status: Organic and Terra Vitis Closure:75cl Bottle.

Price: €13.95

A touch of aniseed on the nose with fruit aromas of raspberries and redcurrants. A medium fullness style rose, lively taste of red fruit flavours of cherries and raspberry. A thirst quenching rose.

The vineyard is run by brother and sister Francois and Fanny, the fourth generation of winemakers. Francois devotes his time to looking after the vines and Fanny makes the wines, maintaining high standards and introduces a certain feminine style. Since 2001 the wines have been produced in accordance with the TERRA VITIS charter which ensure the use of environmentally friendly techniques.

In 2004 the vineyard received Agriculture Raisonne approval (minimises pesticide usage); an external audit is carried out every year by an independent body to check the vineyard against a national reference system

often thin acidic grape juice. The wines reflect his personality and terroir and are a must for all champagne drinkers.

The term "Grower Champagne" has been popping up in publications more amd more in the last couple of years. Everyone seems to sing the praise of these wines without defining what they actually are. Here it goes: Grower Champagnes come from independent wineries in the Champagne region of France, made from grapes which are grown at a single estate and not purchased from another producer or vineyard.

JOSEP MASACHS ROSE CAVA

Price: €39.95 This pink champagne offers up delicate well-defined redcurrants, soft elegant raspberry scents on the nose and inviting sweet fruit flavours with a delicious soft finish on your palate. An outstanding opulent and elegant pink champagne.

The domaine “Herve Mathelin” is a family owned/run vineyard which has been passed down from generation to generation, and it is currently owned and worked by Herve and his wife Janick. Their champagnes are of exceptional quality thanks to their incredible terroir and the skilful winemaking of Herve and his father. Though much less expensive than many of the more popular branded champagnes, they are in a lot of cases far superior. Herve is right at the forefront of the "growers" who wish to express their specific terroirs in fine quality champagne compared to the merchants whose art revolves around blending and camouflaging

Price: €21.95 This is a fresh bubbly cava with a floral nose followed with hints of lively strawberry fruit and a red cherry palate.

This Cava Brut is made in the Penedes region near Barcelona.

The higher altitude gives our wines extra finesse, and the strong heat allows the harvesting with good acidity and optimal alcohol content hence resulting in balanced wines.

5 Thomas St, Sligo Tel: 071-9143523

THIS MONTHS SPECIAL

Cut, Blow Dry and Shave for only...€25

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 57

Super Tan Sligo ProfessionalTanning Studio

Tanning 1 min - 90 cent

Special Offer: 40 min - €25

Open: Mon-Fri 12pm - 9pm, Sat 12pm - 7pm

• Double bronzing lamps • Best quality sunbeds & sunshowers • Vibro tanning • Wide selection of tanning lotions • FREE - birthday tanning • FREE - each 9th tanning

Just House, Bridge Street, Sligo • Phone: 071 919 9663 Prop.

Sandra Clarke

Ballygawley • 071-9303030

Special Offer Wash, Cut & Blow Dry €20 (Tue - Thur)

Open Tuesday - Saturday Unisex Hairdressers

Follow us on Facebook for details and Special Offers

Summer Hair Trends at Finuala’s Hair Design

F

INUALA'S Hair Design was established in 2000. We have recently moved into our new spacious salon on Quay Street at the entrance to Quayside Shopping Centre.Our new salon is convenient for parking with easy access for wheelchairs and buggys.

All our stylists are fully qualified and we offer a friendly warm enviroment with expert knowledge.

Appointments are appreciated but not always necessary.

Why not pop in and we will advise you on this seasons latest colour and style trends.

We aim to create styles that are manageable for you the customer taking into consideration your needs.

This seasons summer trends range from warm tones of gold and caramel balyage to crisp clean blondes all ready for the summer sun.

Not forgetting to keep our tresses in tip top condition with the must have treatment of the summer.

Our Fibre force treatment replenishes dry overtreated hair bringing it back to life.

This treatment replaces keratin in the

Visit us at our New Premises in Quay Street Mall, Quayside Shopping Centre, Sligo

Tel: 071-9169633

Tel: 071- 9140400 • 30 Castle Street, Sligo Visit us online www.colourbar.ie

hair and strenghtens weak damaged hair from within.

Now that Summer has arrived the focus on hairtrends are for a more casual,easily managed style.Loose natural waves and beach tousled tresses are very much in demand.

These looks can be achieved with the use of volumisers,large barrel tongs or sea salt spray to add texture and movement.

Summer hair colours are edging towards sunkissed locks with use of balyage to lighten strands and create different tones of blondes and coppers.

Of course we must not neglect the condition of our hair and scalp in the summer sun.

Whether you are heading off to sunnier climates or staying at home it is important to quench our thirsty locks with intensive treatments and leave in conditioners to replace lost moisture and keep hair in tip top condition.

A hat or bandana will protect the scalp from burning especially if you have fine hair.

This will also protect your colour from fading.

OSMOSiS

MeDiCal SkiNCare Reduces inflammation and rebalances through our inside out approach, resulting in permanent change.

FraCTOra The most advanced technology for non surgical face and neck lift that delivers visible results as seen on ‘This Morn- ing’TV show.

NEXT CLINIC WILL BE 31st JULY

with beauty rooms and Make-up by Muireann

Make up Classes now available at the hair Lounge Unit 4, Rusheen Ard, Caltragh, Sligo.

Tel: 071-91-54757 / 087-9022219

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

Services Directory Matt McGowan

Tel: 071-91 46858 Mobile: 087-206 9031

Maintenance, Landscaping, Hedge Trimming, Decorating Also: Leylandii trees topped and trimmed, Gutter Cleaning, Power Washing Specs. for Planning Permission for trees & landscaping Roof Cleaning, Supplier of Trees and Hedges, Decorative Pea Gravel, also supplied Hedges and Trees

Aluminium & PVC Repairs To windows, doors and patio doors

Expert patio door repairs! • Rollers • Tracks • Hinges • Door Realignment • Locks • Multilocking systems etc

Over 20 years experience servicing Irish windows and doors. Fully insured GLASS PARTS ETC REPLACED

Brendan Gormley: 071-9183860 / 087-2562669

MOW & GO

Complete Garden Maintenance Service at the Keenest Prices!

Lawn Management & Garden Care Lawn Cutting, Hedge Cutting & Tree Pruning Weeding, Planting, Decking & Patios Power Harrowing & Power Washing. Top Soil Provided.

All Areas Covered.

You Name it I can do it!

Phone: 087 3263919

CK SERVICES Quality Work Guaranteed at keen rates

Tel: 087-2844709 Email: christopherkilcullen@yahoo.com

• Chimney Cleaning - Hoover - No Mess • Gutter / Window Cleaning • Power Washing • Painting • Hedge & Grass Cutting • Tree Topping

SLIGO ACUPUNCTURE & TUINA Tuina (Deep Tissue Massage) • Now at the Wellness Centre on Saturdays • Sports Injuries • Ankle or Wrist Pain • Joint Pain • Neck Pain & Stress • Back Pain • Sciatica For information or to make an appointment Tel: 087-1340772 or 071-9153828 www.sligoacupunctureandtuina.com

No.1in the No.2 Business... • Domestic Drain Cleaning • Emergency Service Call Out • Commercial Drain Cleaning • Man Hole Covers Replaced • Odours Investigated • High Velocity Water Jetting • Annual Maintenance Contracts • CCTV Drain Inspection

• Septic Tank Cleaning

Contact Damien: 087 297 4842 or 071 916 8086

Chem-Dry Sligo

323 Ferndale, Cartron Point, Sligo

• Carpet Cleaning • Upholstery Cleaning • Leather Upholstery Cleaning • Tile & Grout Cleaning • Stain Removal • Water Damage Restoration • Smoke Damage Restoration

Tel: 071-91-43519

All Franchises Independently Owned and Operated - Covering all of Sligo County

• 1st and 2nd Fix • Kitchens • Flooring • RooďŹ ng • Decking • Wardrobes • Conservatories • Attic Conversions • Bunk Beds

For all your carpentry needs at keen rates

Cullens

Recovery & Repairs EmERgENCy 24 HouR SERViCE

• Vehicle Recovery • Key Retrieval • Fuel Tank Drainage We Cover All • Clutches Emergency Situations • Brakes & Shocks

• Wheel Changing • Boost Start • NCT Repairs • Servicing & tyres • Diagnostics, etc

Contact Padraig on 086-2695824

Sligo Citizens information Service

Providing a free, conďŹ dential and Independent Service For information, Advice and Advocacy on all your rights and entitlements including social welfare, employment, health and housing.

We operate from the following locations • Rockwood Parade, Sligo • Teach Laighne, Tubbercurry • Family Resource Centre, Ballymote For further details contact 0761076390, email sligo@citinfo.ie www.citizensinformation.ie

Local Training Team Meeting Your Mandatory Training Needs - Public & Inhouse Courses in Sligo April / May 2014 • 3 Day Occupational First Aid (Level 5) • 1 day Occupational First Aid refresher • Fire Training (Basic and Warden Level) • Manual Handling • People (patient) Handling (full or refresher) Contact Carmel on 087-9211517 email: info@imtservices.ie www.imtservices.ie

MONTESSORI TEACHER REQUIRED Must have qualifications in Montessori Teaching along with BA in Early Childhood Care & Education and 3 years relevant experience Position commencing 1st September Phone Caroline Casey on 087 2231147 or email hopesndreams@eircom.net for application form or send CV to 29 Cartron Heights, Sligo. Closing date for applications 30 July

Thur - Sun: 11am-6pm & School Holidays + Bank Holidays.

Outside hours by arrangement

1 and half hours of supervised play for just â‚Ź5.00 www.happydayssligo.ie

Cleveragh Business Park, Sligo • Telephone: 071 9135115

FOR CLASS SCHEDULES OR MORE DETAILS CONTACT YOUR CERTIFIED BOKWA INSTRUCTOR:

Eithne Cromey 087-266-8758

Merville Community Centre, Maugheraboy, Sligo, Tue 8pm @ Thur 7.30pm â‚Ź7 Per Class

Find us on Facebook - Bokwa Fitness Sligo

PHYLLIS O'CONNOR

ACCOUNTING Holborn St, Sligo Phone: (071)9144713

SELF EMPLOYED? PAYE? Are you having Tax problems?

Do you have income tax / VAT / Capital Gain  tax liabilities? We can help.  20 Years experience with Revenue

Ultimate Spray Insulation using The Icynene Insulation System Icynene was developed over 25 years ago, It’s one of the most well known brands of insulation in North America and is available in 34 countries around the world. • The only spray foam in Ireland to successfully pass the breathability testing. • Tested and CertiďŹ ed for direct application to the underside of all roof surfaces. • Provides air tightness. • Improved Energy Savings. • Pays for itself in a short period of time. • No harmful chemicals • Perfect for renovation and New Build • Lifetime Guarantee

For a Free Quotation, call Kevin on 086-3108703

COMPOST FOR SALE Pure Organic Compost - Ideal Soil Enricher • 50 Litre Sealed Bags • Cubic Metre Sacks Compost / Veggie Mix • Bulk Loads Trailer pickup & can deliver Union Wood Road, Ballisodare Call to Yard or Phone 087-9756455

Follow Kate on Twitter @katicut So, I'm a bit of a hypochondriac. I have an extensive knowledge of home diagnosis and over-the-counter drugs, and I have been known to dispense this encyclopaedic advice to all who care to listen; the difference between ibuprofen and paracetamol, the best flu tablets to get you through a shift at work, the initial signs of meningitis, toxic shock syndrome and the plague.

I know the dangers of Google, and yet I'm a little bit addicted. I'm a doctor's worst nightmare. However, I do harbour a belief that we all know our own bodies best, and that you should always at least try to listen to what your inner workings are trying to tell you at any given time, even when a GP is looking at you with that thinly veiled expression which reads You are wasting my very expensive TIME! In my own experience, sometimes it's genuinely shocking how much my body seems to know about my emotional or mental state before my brain has caught up. Anxiety, stress, upheaval, heartache – they all have physical signs and symptoms. Learning to read them would be a great idea.

And Google is only going to tell me that it's syphillis.

So I decided, after years of suggestions from several friends that I really should try Chinese medicine, and in particular, a very well-regarded practitioner in Dublin who works with acupuncture, nutrition and herbs, as well as bio-energetic healing and other things which probably aren't the correct words, but you know, alternative stuff, to give it a lash. There was nothing in particular wrong with me as I headed up to my first appointment with Seamus (he's not Chinese, just FYI) but there were some niggling things which could surely be addressed.

The first thing you notice when you go to see someone like not-chinesebut-chinese-medicine-man Seamus, is the difference in time and attention you are given. I filled out a detailed (and when I say detailed, we are talking not for the faint hearted) questionnaire about my general daily health and functions, which we then sat and went through, step by step.

Seamus listened to what I had to say and offered plenty of sage advice regarding small, everyday changes to make things run a little smoother. It was like doctor meets counsellor meets wise Indian Chief (Not Indian though.

Definitely Irish). And bear in mind that this costs the same as a three and a half minute speed-diagnosis with a traditional doctor.

That first appointment lasted an hour and was more of a consultation. I was given a pot of unpronounceable herbs to take daily in hot water, and advised, nay, TOLD that coffee was off the menu. I tried to bargain, but he's a tough one. No. Coffee is the single worst thing I can do to myself, said Seamus. Considering my anxiety and stress levels and what this is doing to my internal organs, it's gotta go. Ugh. I was raging. I'm a caf-fiend, you see. Ten shots a day. Seamus just smiled his sunny smile and said "They don't call

me Seamus Killjoy for nothing!" as his parting shot. Bahhhhh.

But I did quit the lovely black stuff.

And despite horrific withdrawals, the results have been priceless. Turns out, I'm not actually a stress-headed, adrenalin-fuelled, wide-eyed nutter. I'm actually a fairly chilled out chick. And I'm in no way as busy as I used to think I was. There are a lot more hours in the day when they're not speeding by in a tasty whizz of espresso. Already, in one simple step, Seamus had my attention (which, funnily enough, was a lot more focussed and clear at this point).

The herbs have certainly been adding to my general sense of wellbeing too. Emotionally and physically. You don't want details, but on several levels there's been a huge change already. I went to see him again twice and got acupuncture on one of the visits.

Acupuncture. Something I've always been intrigued by. A first time for me, this was, aside from a tiny bit of experimental dry needling (which is something very different) in the hands of a physiotherapist friend of mine once. So, Seamus started out by warning me that his acupuncture technique can be "A little intense". I didn't have much time to process this before we got started, which is a good thing. See, I'd always been told that it's a pretty much painless treatment.

That's why I was intrigued, to be honest.

Someone sticking needles in me, and it doesn't hurt? Sounds like a service I would have been offering to my school buddies when I was nine.

It did hurt. Several times my entire body lifted off the table, I swear. But it's a funny, satisfying kind of pain. Like swivelling a loose tooth when you're a kid, and feeling that crunchy ouch right down to your toes. And then, once the needles were all in me, I had a little nap, while Seamus did that alterative stuff I mentioned earlier all around me.

Rain dancing, it looked like, when I opened my eyes for a moment. "Just ignore me, everybody does." Said he, clearing my chakras or something fabulous like that.

I felt FANTASTIC after my acupuncture and rain dancing treatment. I had walked into that office with the beginnings of a nasty headcold, given to me by a particular friend I had recently diagnosed with meningitis, and I kid you not, it was completely gone by the time I arrived back in Sligo. Gone. I was zen-chilled and feeling just fine. Take that, antibiotocs!

So I'm converted. I'm giving up Google and I'm staying out of the GP's waiting room from now on. I don't drink coffee, and thanks to these magical herbs, I'm not very interested in booze anymore either (because said magical herbs seem to be making my liver very powerful and it is aggressively kicking the living daylights out of me every time I imbibe alcohol. Smooth move, Seamus Killjoy) and I have loads of energy.

This is my most successful New Leaf to date. I'm a new woman. You gotta try these herbs, man.

July 2014 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 62

Wonderful Walks in County Sligo

This Month:

Glencar Waterfall & Lake Distance: Ranging from 1km to 11km, depending which of the three routes you choose, Glencar offers a short romp or a long, rambling hike, take your pick.

Difficulty Level: Again, seeing as there are three different routes, it's all up to you, which is one of the joys of this location. The waterfall itself is easily accessible, on a wellconstructed and maintained path, which loops around less than a kilometer, with sturdy stairs and hand rails a go-go.

The long, winding road around the lake offers little challenge aside from its length and the odd boy racer, and the bog road is a nice, thigh-busting climb.

Directions: From the car park at the edge of the lake, picturesque as can be, lambs frolicking and swans aswanning, and if you're lucky, a very incongruous ice cream van parked bang in the centre of the view, the way to the waterfall is clearly marked. Ditto the walk around the lake, just follow the windy, narrow main road and try not to get run over. The bog road is a bit more of an adventure, and requires a bit of finding. Walk west from the car park (yeah, that's what I said... "West??"), which means back the way you came, till you pass the boat house on the left. Take the first little road on the right after that and head into the forest. Cross a stile and follow a stream and a sheep track, and get delightfully lost in some wild Irish hinterland. If you're lucky you'll come out somewhere at the top of the waterfall. If you're unlucky, you won't notice till it's too late ... yeeeeeeeehhhhhhhhhhhh hhhhh

Description: Glencar Waterfall is a stunning cascade of booming, splashing, watery goodness, on a sunny day casting rainbow hues about the glade, and on a rainy day running impressively fast and powerful. I would never promote such things, but there are tales of people clambering up behind the spray on hot summers days.

The lake itself is home to a plethora of wildlife and fabulous fauna... pick a bunch of wildflowers for your loved one and make them smile for days. The bog road offers the opportunity to get lost in nature, and despite the fact that this area is one of Sligo's top visitor attractions, very few ever ramble past the main arena of car park and very clearly signed waterfall walk. Bring a picnic and find your own route, that's what I say.