Author: whatsonni

Following a motion which was proposed by Councillor Mark Cooper and seconded by Councillor Julie Gilmour, the Council has committed to enhancing services, signing on social media videos and the appointment of a ‘Deaf Champion’.

The motion read:

“That this Council commits to being a Deaf Friendly Council, undertakes to

ensure all council services are accessible to those who are Deaf, commits to

providing signing on social media videos to highlight important events and

announcements within the Council area, promotes the introduction of Sign

Courses for staff, appoints a “Deaf Champion” within the Council and commits

to working with neighbouring Councils and Deaf organisations to promote Deaf

awareness. Commits to signing up to the BDA’s, BSL/ISL Charter to improve

access and rights for Deaf people who use sign language.”

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Jim Montgomery said; “Equality of access to services is a hugely important issue for our Council. We have made really positive progress, but we must continue to recognise and remove any barriers that prevent those with a disability from enjoying our Borough as an outstanding place to live, work and enjoy. I’m proud that we have made these commitments and I know they will be warmly welcomed by deaf people within our local community.”

The Grand Central Hotel in Belfast is well-known for its delectable dining including stunning afternoon tea which can be enjoyed in the Observatory located on the 23^rd floor boasting breath-taking views of Belfast and beyond.

If you fancy trying your hand at something different for St Patrick’s Day, the Grand Central’s Pastry Chef, Caitlin Lopes, has shared a delightful recipe to make at home. Enjoy!

St Patrick’s Day Choux Bun Recipe with a green sable topping and a pistachio filling

Ingredients

Brown sugar craquelin

75g butter (soft)

90g soft light brown sugar 

85g plain flour 

Green food colouring (or desired colour)

Choux ingredients

125ml milk

125ml water

125g butter 

Pinch of salt 

10g sugar 

245g eggs (lightly beaten)

160g strong flour (sieved)

Pistachio diplomat 

125ml whole milk

125ml double cream

1tsp vanilla bean paste

45g egg yolk 

40g caster sugar 

20g plain flour 

10g cornflour

30g pistachio paste

1 leaf gelatine (soaked in ice cold water)

85g semi whipped double cream 

Method – Brown Sugar Craquelin

1.     Beat butter and sugar until smooth

2.     Add flour and food colouring (add food colouring bit by bit until you get your desired colour)

3.     Let rest for at 30 minutes

4.     Lightly flour your bench and roll your craquelin until approx 2-3mm thick 

5.     Cut to desired size and keep in fridge until required

 Method – Choux pastry 

1.     Heat oven on to 170ºC fan assisted

2.     Place milk, water, butter, salt and sugar into a wide based pan and bring to a simmer

3.     Add in sieved flour and keep mixing vigorously with a wooden spoon  until your dough comes away from the sides of the pan to form one piece of dough 

4.     Allow dough to cool for 5 to 7 minutes before gradually adding in your eggs bit by bit. When each bit of egg is added ensure that it has been fully mixed into your dough before adding any more. You should end up with a smooth glossy dough of thick dropping consistency 

5.     Pipe mixture onto a baking tray lined with baking parchment and top with craquelin (you want your craquelin to be a few centimetres bigger than your piped choux)

6.     Bake at 170ºC for 15-20 minutes then lower your oven to 130ºC and cook for a further 15 minutes.

Method – Pistachio diplomat 

1.     Heat milk, cream, vanilla and pistachio paste to a simmer 

2.     Whisk egg yolks sugar and flours 

3.     Gradually pour cream mix over egg mix continuously whisking 

4.     Place back on the heat and keep whisking (do not leave it or it will scramble) until you can make a figure of 8

5.     Whisk in gelatine 

6.     Set over ice 

7.     Once set smooth with a spatula 

8.     When smooth lightly fold in semi whipped cream and place in the fridge for approximately 20 minutes 

9.     Pipe into choux buns (whichever way suits you best!) 

10.  Enjoy with some hot chocolate sauce!

Have you heard of European Heritage Open Days? Would you like to take part this year?

This year marks the 24th year of European Heritage Open Days (EHOD) in Northern Ireland. It’s an annual celebration of local architecture, history and culture. It’s when hundreds of properties and locations open their doors and organise free events for the public each September.

• EHOD provides a unique opportunity for the public to see ‘behind closed doors’ at a variety of historic places, many of which are not normally open to the public.
• It’s when the public can enjoy talks, tours, exhibitions, workshops, walks, traditional skills demonstrations.
• It’s also a celebration of Northern Ireland’s history and culture through art, literature, song, dance, drama, film, food and crafts.

Getting involved

Your business can take part in EHOD by:

• putting on an event
• opening a historic property or building of interest to the public
• hosting an online event
• contributing digital content

The physical events are on 11 & 12 September whilst the digital offerings run from 6 to 12 September.

If you are interested you can to register with the Department for Communities. The deadline for registrations is 23:59 on Wednesday 5 May 2021.

Help to promote your offer for FREE

EHOD is co-ordinated by Department for Communities – Historic Environment Division. They’ll help you promote your offer to the public for FREE on @LoveHeritageNI social media channels, Dept. for Communities website, Discover NI website and in an e-brochure. There’s also help to manage bookings if needed and you’ll be given promotional material, all FREE.

The only requirement is that your place, space or story is provided free of charge to the public for EHOD and it has heritage at its core. 

If you’re interested, find out more on the Communities NI website or contact the EHOD team by email: ehod@communities-ni.gov.uk

You can also keep up to date on all things EHOD and the 2021 plans via social media:

• Facebook: @LoveHeritageNI 
• Twitter:  @loveheritageNI
• Instagram:  @loveheritageni

A Belfast based startup, Nombox Ltd is looking to be the bridge between hungry diners looking for healthy eating options & home based cooks. The startup is looking to create a new category by organising the home based cooks together.

Currently in its pilot phase, the startup is onboarding Homecooks in Belfast & Cardiff areas while  developing the technology to further expand in the UK.

Nombox Ltd platform will allow customers to explore & buy home cooked food from local chefs in their neighborhood. The chef’s are onboarded after a rigorous process to ensure they have the necessary license & hygiene rating to operate & sell home cooked meals. Nombox Ltd  can also assist passionate homecooks to obtain these required licenses to operate. 

“The idea was born out of frustration to find pocket friendly healthy meals. Me & my wife are both working professionals & end up having takeaways most of the time. We then found a few homecooks in our area which looked like a healthier & pocket-friendly solution to the dilemma of most people like myself who don’t have the time to cook”, says Ninil, one of the founders of Nombox.

With Nombox looking to organise the homecook playfield, the food & beverage industry has a new entrant that is sure to create a niche in the market.

The food delivery market is rapidly increasing worldwide and 2020 has seen the segment expand further. Nombox provides the platform for these homecooks to reach new customers and make a successful living. 

40% of UK citizens follow a healthy and balanced diet and 1 in four are so overworked they don’t have time to cook. With takeaway or fast food joints the only option currently, a healthy & pocket friendly alternate will have good takers.

“We are super excited to pilot our idea in Belfast & hoping to get enough support & resources from the startup ecosystem here to give us a headstart when we launch in the major cities in the UK”, says Ninil.

If you are passionate about cooking or looking for healthy homemade food, head to www.nombox.co.uk now.

Give the perfect Christmas gift to your loved ones and let them discover what Ards and North Down has to offer through a selection of fantastic walking tours and experiences!

Taking place between January and the end of March, the tours allow you and your loved ones to explore fascinating places while being immersed in the beauty of the Borough, on both dry land and water…

Walking Tours

The New Year’s Day Historic Ards Walk (1 Jan) will take you on a journey through time and let you explore the rich and varied history of Newtownards. You will discover many interesting and exciting stories, including John de Courcy and Oliver Cromwell, in one of the oldest settlements in Northern Ireland.

If that’s too early in the year for you, then a number of walking tours will take place throughout February and March across different towns and villages. These include Love Comber (14 Feb) and the Historic Donaghadee Town Walk (27 Feb).

As the longer days begin to raise our spirits, the Hello Spring (20 Mar) guided walk will take you along the North Down Coastal Path on the first day of spring, providing a beautiful journey through coastline and parkland. Meanwhile, at the opposite end of the Peninsula, the Historic Portaferry Town Walk (27 Mar) offers another interesting and informative tour that reveals the fascinating maritime heritage of Portaferry.

Experiences

If you would rather rest those weary feet and enjoy the tranquil surroundings on water, March also features a feast of experiences that caters for all tastes.

Canoe and Cake (13 Mar) lets you enjoy the beauty of Strangford Lough from your own canoe before relaxing at a traditional Irish thatched cottage with some delicious cake.

SUPNIC (20 Mar) offers three guided paddleboard experiences in the one day. You can choose between the breakfast (8-10am), lunch (12-2pm) or supper (4-6pm) sessions that will see you enjoy paddleboarding in Belfast Lough while hearing local tales before tucking into a gourmet picnic from a local deli in beautiful surroundings.

Perhaps an evening paddle in Donaghadee is more your thing, with SUP and Sip (21 Mar) letting you enjoy the view of the Copelands and see some of the resident wildlife while you glide along Belfast Lough, before returning to Pier 36 for a drink and a chat. The perfect way to enjoy a Sunday afternoon!

Finally, the SUP and Soda (28 Mar) paddleboarding tour closes off the month in the tranquillity of Strangford Lough. You will paddleboard from Whiterock to Ballymorran before enjoying a freshly griddled soda, egg and sausage (vegetarian option also available) in a traditional Irish thatched cottage.

All providers will operate the experiences with COVID-19 measures in line with current government guidance.

For more information, including ticket prices and booking, go to visitardsandnorthdown.com/Christmasgifts and get your loved one an experience to remember this Christmas!

The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has visited Garvagh Forest where new walking and cycling trails are encouraging more people to get active outdoors.

Officially opened last summer, the trail network provides a welcoming environment for the public to experience the benefits of recreation opportunities within a forest environment.

Nestled on the edge of the town, walkers and joggers can explore up to 13kms of way marked routes, while cyclists can enjoy a range of purpose built trails.

Given the pandemic’s social restrictions, Alderman Mark Fielding said access to outdoor space is more crucial than ever.

“Garvagh Forest is a beautiful natural asset enhanced by appropriate infrastructure thanks to funding from DAERA, Sport NI and the Landfill Community Fund. The high quality trails make it a valuable space for recreation, and we have seen its popularity grow in recent times.

“If the trailhead car park is full, I would like to remind the public that they can also avail of further parking at Bridge Street which is only a short walk away. All forest users should park responsibly and be mindful of other drivers and pedestrians at all times.

“The forest is a fantastic shared space and we want to ensure that a visit to the area remains a positive experience for everyone as we promote positive health and wellbeing within local communities.”

As a two-week circuit breaker continues to reduce the spread of coronavirus, the Mayor is also reminding people to adhere to the new regulations:

“During this time we should all try to stay at home as much as possible and only leave for essential purposes which includes outdoor exercise along with education, healthcare needs or to care for others.

“By reducing our contact with others and staying at home we will reduce the spread of the infection and ultimately help to save lives.

“Please do everything you can in the weeks ahead to protect yourself and your loved ones as we continue the fight against COVID-19.”

You can find out more about Garvagh Forest by going to www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com/garvagh-forest-trails/

Go to www.causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk/COVID19 or follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and announcements about coronavirus.

19 November – 12 December 2020

www.gallery545.com

Gallery 545 presents a group of emerging and more established artists based in Northern Ireland who have achieved recognition locally and internationally. This exhibition celebrates their originality and talent showcasing a curated selection of diverse artworks. The selection encompasses atmospheric pieces inspired by landscapes, vibrant abstract paintings, fascinating portraits and exquisite works on paper. Viewers will have the opportunity to appreciate and discover recent artworks by several accomplished artists living and working in the region.

All the exhibiting artists are represented by Gallery 545, an online and pop-up gallery specialising in contemporary art of Northern Ireland. They are: Lisa Ballard, Ronan Bowes, Alacoque Davey, Ray Duncan, Craig Donald, Wendy Ferguson, Karl Hagan, Elham Hemmat, Trina Hobson, Ashely B Holmes, Janet Keith, Rachel Lawell, Aimee Melaugh, Rosie McGurran, Kevin Miller, Noel Murphy, Latisha Reihill, Katharine St Angelo, Charlie Scott and Anushiya Sundaralingam.

Artworks can be viewed and purchased online at gallery545.com (free delivery in UK and Ireland, and also  free returns in Northern Ireland). They are also available for private viewings at Gallery 545’s office in 51 Malone Road, Belfast.  For more information and enquiries, contact the gallery at hello@gallery545.com or on +44 7960 130414.

Gallery 545 Group Exhibition is curated by Francesca Biondi, Art Director at Gallery 545. She commented:

I am delighted to feature and promote several artists based in Northern Ireland with this exhibition. There are so many talented artists here who create great art. This year has been particularly difficult for them. I therefore believe that it is important, now more than ever, to support them.

Eden Project Communities ambassadors Jo Brand and Eddie Izzard will be headlining the popular visitor attraction’s first online festival, which is hoping to be the “perfect antidote to lockdown” says Sir Tim Smit, Co-Founder of the Eden Project.

The Festival of Discovery on 20-21 November is funded by National Lottery and  offers a wealth of sessions FREE  aiming to help people connect from across the UK through lively discussions, fun demonstrations and inspiring stories.

Covering topics from climate change and food security to inclusive communities and wellbeing the virtual festival is hoping to bring together families and neighbours during the challenging next few weeks.

Festival-goers will be able to take  part in cooking, gardening, listen to health and well being expert advice, enjoy a virtual tour around the world-famous Eden Biomes and walk amongst the exotic plants whilst watching exclusive talks and workshops focusing on encouraging people to explore a better future, for themselves and their communities.

Guest speakers will include marathon man and comedian Eddie Izzard who will be talking about exploring identity and making humanity great again, and fellow comedian Jo Brand will be telling people about some of the things she’s personally discovered during her extraordinary life and career.

Speaking about the Festival of Discovery Eddie Izzard said: “We have to remember that this time will turn around and we need to be ready to head towards a more positive future. Eden’s Festival of Discovery is both an antidote to lockdown and a reminder to connect with others, share ideas, spread the positivity and focus on what we can do to make humanity great.”

Online performances will take place across a number of virtual stages including the Med Motivation Station where you can go from having a workout with Mr Motivator before listening to Guinness World Record holder and long-distance cyclist Mark Beaumont in conversation with Peter Stewart, Eden Project’s Executive Director.

Another guest speaker is Greg Whyte OBE, a former Olympian who has helped train numerous celebrities to undertake tough physical challenges and extraordinary feats of endurance. He mentored David Walliams as he swam across the English Channel, took Cheryl Cole, Chris Moyles and Gary Barlow up Mount Kilimanjaro and helped Radio 1’s Greg James on his five triathlons in five cities in five days. Greg explains how exercise and positivity can help anyone to achieve their goals.

On the Open Mic Stage you will be able to listen to the inspirational real-life stories of Esther Mujawayo who talks about her work helping to rebuild shattered lives and communities in Rwanda in the wake of the 1994 genocide, and Derrick Errol Evans MBE, the man behind the iconic lycra-clad fitness instructor – Mr Motivator.

Young dinosaur fans will get a treat from BBC’s CBeebies Andy Day as he entertains the kids with Jurassic raps and wild adventure themed activities. Plus, anyone with creative interests can join in virtual lantern making classes, a poetry session or learn painting skills in workshops put together by artist Alison Critchlow.

The festival is part of the Eden Project’s Communities program, all made possible by the National Lottery, and follows the first virtual Big Lunch that took place in the summer.

Grainne Mc Closkey NI Manager, Eden project Communities said: “This winter is going to be tough for everyone and we know how important it is that people feel connected and stay positive. The Big Lunch – our flagship initiative bringing people together had to be done virtually and with social distance this year and there was such a response from people looking for ways to keep connected.  So when  Eden the wonderful destination in Cornwall temporarily closed  due to the pandemic we decided to open it up virtually to people who would not be able to travel and to share knowledge, ideas and experience to people in neighbourhoods across the UK. The Festival of Discovery as the perfect antidote to lockdown. We can still bring people together to have meaningful conversations online that help us work towards a better future for ourselves, our communities and the planet.”

The free Festival of Discovery will take place over the weekend of November 20-21 with all the events taking place via www.thefestivalofdiscovery.com.

The coveted title of ‘Best Window Display’ is up for grabs as Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s annual Christmas competition gets underway.

The standard of town centre window displays has soared year after year, with bright, colourful creativity helping to attract shoppers and spread Christmas cheer. Given the challenges of recent months, this has never been more important.

One winner will be selected for each location in Bushmills, Cushendall, Dungiven, Garvagh, Kilrea, Portrush and Portstewart as well as Ballycastle, Ballymoney, Coleraine and Limavady.

A panel of independent judges will assess and score displays based on the following:

How attractive is the display?

How well designed and creative is the display?

How much does the display contribute to a positive town centre experience for local shoppers and visitors?

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Alderman Mark Fielding, said: “2020 has been a very difficult year for our town centres and local businesses. Every one of us is hoping that the Christmas season will mark a positive turning point in the fight against the pandemic, and that the New Year will see a steady recovery of our local economy.

“This Christmas season, more than ever, we are urging people to do their shopping locally by exploring the retail offering in towns and villages across the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough.

“Festive-themed windows have become a great attraction and I encourage all our town centre traders to make the most of this opportunity to embrace the season and enhance the shopping experience your business and town has to offer.”

Each town winner will receive a small trophy in recognition of their creative efforts. There is no need to formally enter the competition. Just make sure your window is beautifully dressed before 5pm on Friday 4th December. Winners will be announced on Monday 14th December 2020.

For further information please contact the Council’s Town Management team on 028 7034 7034 or email: town.management@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk.

If you are looking for that special gift this Christmas, that offers plenty of choice then why not try the Antrim Town Gift Card?

Launched this week by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council in conjunction with Antrim Town Team, the gift card aims to encourage people to spend more locally and in turn, help businesses recover from the recent pandemic. The card works the same as other shop gift card schemes and can be pre-loaded with any amount from £5 up to £500.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Jim Montgomery said: “Together with the Council’s Back in Business campaign we want the card to encourage local spend and help our businesses recover from the Covid-19 crisis. People who use the card will be able to discover new shops and businesses which they may not have tried before, whilst also visiting some of their favorite places. The gift card can be redeemed through multiple transactions at over 30 participating businesses within Antrim Town, making the perfect gift for a colleague, friend or family member.”

If you are a business owner who has a till system that accepts Mastercard and would like to get involved please email karen.uprichard@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk. For more information including a list of businesses that accept the gift card or to purchase one, visit www.antrimgiftcard.co.uk