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Belfast Zoo’s new Scottish wildcat couple and native species, Oscar and Ossian, provide the zoo with an excellent opportunity to support the conservation of a national species, and they have arrived just in time for Valentine’s!

Ossian, Belfast Zoo’s new Scottish wildcat female, came from the Highlands Wildlife Park in Scotland and was born in May 2019. Oscar, the zoo’s new male, came from Alladale Wilderness Reserve in Scotland and was born in April 2019. Scottish wildcats face intense pressure with numbers continuing to drop rapidly each year, and it is hoped the zoo will be able to play a role in conserving this native species, fight the threat of extinction through breeding and help Scottish wildcat numbers grow.

The main threats affecting Scottish wildcats are hybridisation, disease and accidental persecution. Hybridisation is a term used to describe the cross breeding of pure Scottish wildcats with domesticated tabby or feral cat. Crossbreeding has led to a huge decline in pure Scottish Wildcat numbers in the wild. Disease can be transferred between feral cats and the Scottish wildcats when they cross breed and can cause huge health issues, even death to the Scottish wildcat. Scottish wildcats face intense pressure from farmers, bird keepers, game keepers and other parties due to accidental persecution as they are misidentified as feral cats. The latest addition to Belfast Zoo will provide the zoo with the opportunity to educate all our visitors about Scottish Wildcats and the threats they face. 

Alyn Cairns, Zoo Manager, said ‘It is a pleasure and fantastic opportunity for us to home such an iconic, native species, at Belfast Zoo. The Scottish wildcats face the threat of extinction as numbers diminish to record lows. Belfast Zoo continues to develop native species conservation efforts and with the arrival of the Scottish wildcats we hope that we can support the recovery of this iconic species. We have hopes of taking part in a new breeding programme with wildlife reserve partners in Scotland. It is hoped that the thirdgeneration of kittens from the new Scottish wildcat couple at Belfast Zoo will be released back into the wild. We would like to thank P&O ferries for sponsoring the travel of the Scottish wildcats to Belfast Zoo and look forward to hopefully seeing some adorable Scottish wildcat kittens soon!’’

For a chance to see love blossom between Oscar and Ossian, visit the zoo for a ‘purrfect’ Valentine’s Day out with your ‘otter’ half on 14 and 15 February and avail of the 2-for-1admissions offer, follow the love trail and grab a memento with zoo love bird photography offers, or if you’re single and ready to ‘Flamingle’ check out the zoo singles offer on 16 February.

For more information on the zoo’s events and Valentines weekend please visit: http://www.belfastzoo.co.uk/news-and-events/events/Events-5583.aspx.

The popular Lunchtime Learning programme is back with a bang with a new three-month programme to support businesses in an ever-evolving marketing landscape.

The Destination CQ (Cathedral Quarter Business Improvement District) initiative focuses on the challenging digital environment with free 45-minute events are designed for all businesses in the Cathedral Quarter and are held in the Black Box.

CQ BID manager, Gareth Neill, said that these sessions have been designed to help all to enhance their online marketing profile particularly around positive engagement with new and existing customers.

“After the fantastic success of our first season of Lunchtime Learning, we are back again with a new batch,” he said. “evaluation after our last series, merited further sessions based on marketing and digital media and we are delighted to have curated a range of industry leaders from across the Cathedral Quarter to take part.

“This is part of the BID’s commitment to provide additional training and business support to businesses operating in Cathedral Quarter & Smithfield; we have an energetic and enthusiastic business community who are keen to learn, upskill, and share best practice amongst each other in the area.”

Most sessions in the past have been sold out; with an average rating of 4.5/5 across all our speakers and content choices. It’s a great opportunity to escape the office, learn something new and network with neighbouring businesses.

Organised by Andi Jarvis of Eximo Marketing the upcoming sessions include: How to Write a Marketing Plan, marketing on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, Facebook and Instagram Ads, an introduction to Google Analytics.

In addition to the Lunchtime Learning series there will be bespoke ticketed three-hour workshops for advanced social media learning.

There will also be a series of bespoke three-hour workshops on marketing plans, Facebook and Instagram ads, Google Analytics and how to use WordPress.

Full details and how to sign up are here: https://www.cathedralquarterbelfast.com/lunchtime-learning/

Theatre lovers are in for a treat this month when I, Elizabeth, a stunning performance from Dyad Productions, the award-winning creators of Orlando, Jane Eye and Christmas Gothic comes to Space Theatre, SERC, Bangor on Tuesday 25 February.

Elizabeth I: Queen at 25, political phoenix and famously unmarried, she was the most educated woman of her Age – but who was he woman beneath the crown?

Using only Elizabeth’s words – adapted from letters, speeches and writings – I Elizabeth illuminates a fascinating moment of decision in the young monarch’s reign. Defying the establishment by choosing to lead her country alone, Elizabeth forsakes her own dreams and desires in order to steer England towards national and spiritual security. I, Elizabeth explores the struggle to reconcile the desires of womanhood with the duties of sovereignty to expose the royal heart of an iconic historical figure.

I Elizabeth, is written and performed by Rebecca Vaughan (writer/performer: Female Gothic, Christmas Gothic, Austen’s Women, performer: Orlando, Jane Eyre, Dalloway, The Diaries of Adam and Eve) and directed by Guy Masterson (Austen’s Women, Female Gothic, Oliver Award-Winning director of Morecambe).

‘Riveting… a breath-taking creation.’ (Edinburgh Evening News)

‘A truly breath-taking experience.’ (Fringe Review)

‘A performance worthy of an Academy Award.’ (The Carrick)

I Elizabeth, Space Theatre, SERC, Bangor, Tuesday 25 February, 8pm.

Tickets cost £12 and are on sale now at: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ardsandnorthdown.

Tickets can also be purchased from North Down Museum, Ards Arts Centre or any of Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Visitor Information Centres.

LOVE is in the air at Hastings Hotels this Valentine’s Day with a selection of luxurious overnight stays, romantic dinners and gifts that even cupid would fall in love with!

With the choice of seven luxurious hotels across Northern Ireland, there is something for everyone and all guests will receive one of the famous Hastings Love Ducks to take home.

Couples can choose from the following romantic overnight breaks from Thursday 13^th February until Sunday 16^th February:

• ‘Romance in the City’ at the Everglades Hotel in Derry~Londonderry from £140 per couple* includes a romantic meal for two in The Grill Restaurant and a glass of wine.

• ‘Room for Romance’ at the Stormont Hotel in Belfast from £160 per couple* includes a complimentary room upgrade to an Executive Room and romantic meal for two with a glass of Pink Fizz in La Scala Restaurant.

•  ‘From the Heart’ at Ballygally Castle in Co Antrim from £180 per couple* includes a glass of Prosecco and romantic dinner for two in the Garden Restaurant.

• ‘Sweetheart Stays’ at the Europa Hotel in Belfast from £200 per couple* includes a complimentary room upgrade, Pink Fizz Cocktail on arrival and romantic meal for two in the Causerie Restaurant.

• ‘A Valentine’s Wish’ at the Slieve Donard Resort & Spa in Newcastle from £250 per couple* includes meal for two and a glass of Prosecco in the Oak Restaurant.

• ‘Lovin’ You – Seahorse Package’ at the Grand Central Hotel includes romantic 4-course evening meal and a glass of Pink Fizz in the Seahorse Restaurant or the

‘Higher Love – Observatory Package’ includes a complimentary room upgrade with                guaranteed views, a reserved table in the stunning Observatory with a bottle of Bollinger and chocolate covered treats. Both packages are priced from £270 per couple*.

• ‘For My ‘Suite’ Heart’ at the Culloden Estate & Spa in Belfast from £350 per couple* includes an upgrade to a stunning suite and a romantic meal for two in Vespers with a glass of Champagne

Luxury extras are available at each hotel including Champagne and chocolates in your room on arrival or why not surprise your other half with a relaxing treatment in The Spa at Culloden or The Spa at Slieve Donard.

Delectable 4-course dinners are available at each of the hotels and for the perfect gift to show how much you love your other half, treat them to a Hastings Hotels Gift Card which can be used at any of the seven hotels and redeemed against an indulgent Spa treatment, a romantic dinner, a delightful afternoon tea or a relaxing break away. There’s something to suit everyone and every budget this Valentine’s day.

To book a romantic Valentine’s with Hastings Hotels simply contact 028 9047 1066 or visit www.hastingshotels.com

*Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. Based on two people sharing.

The inaugural conference from the Young Entrepreneurs Network Northern Ireland (YENNI) will take place on Friday, January 31st at Riddel Hall, Belfast, bringing together inspiring speakers and aiming to help drive development of young people’s businesses. 

Entitled ‘Level Up!’ the YENNI conference will see the voluntary organisation take the next stage in its support for 18-30-year-olds interested in business, entrepreneurship, leadership and professional development. 

YENNI founder, Katie Matthews, was FSB NI Young Entrepreneur 2018 and was included in the NI 40 Under 40 List last year. “I set up YENNI to support other young entrepreneurs and professionals who have a wealth of potential, but perhaps not the means to pursue their dreams and explore their capabilities,” she said. 

“Our inaugural conference will support the vision to provide a safe space, platform and hub for sharing ideas, connecting, supporting, developing and mentoring the amazingly talented young people of Northern Ireland. I’m delighted that so many inspiring speakers have agreed to take part.” 

Keynote speakers will include FSB Chair, Tina McKenzie, CEO of Grafton Recruitment, Claire Stewart, Chartered Accountant and NI Young Leader of the Year 2019, and Dave Linton, founder of Madlug CIC and the UK’s Entrepreneur for Good 2019. 

“What all of the speakers have shown is determination to succeed, and the desire to take businesses to the next level,” said Katie. 

“Together with the other speakers, leaders and ‘Masterclass’ workshops this is an excellent opportunity to not only learn, but to take the next step in your own development and your business’ growth. 

“Level UP! Aims to educate, evolve, empower and elevate everyone involved. It will bring together like-minded, driven young people who are current or future entrepreneurs, leaders, professionals, leaders, innovators and disruptors for what I am sure will be a day that will change many people’s lives and outlooks.” 

Sponsors for the event include GetPrint, along with Grafton Recruitment, O’Reilly Stewart Solicitors, The Mind Tribe UK, Mourne Management Systems, Ruthless Media, Oranga and Excalibur Press.

The conference will last from 9:30 to 4:30, with tickets priced at £15 via Eventbrite – just search Level Up!

Omagh Library will host an inspirational event on Wednesday, January 29th to help aspirational bloggers get ready to share life, experiences, and expertise as well as learning more about managing health and wellbeing.

The event by TrainingMatchmaker.com for Libraries NI is designed to encourage potential bloggers to get started, receive hints, tips and tricks towards success – and share the enjoyment of being a blogger.

The Tyrone Blogging Inspiration event will see transformational speaker, Deborah King talk about her own journey into blogging, as well as a panel of experts who will help you get online to tell your own story.

As part of the Libraries NI ‘New Year New You’ campaign the theme of the January event is health and wellness both online and offline.

Chartered Marketer Christine Watson of TrainingMatchmaker.com, said the event is for both existing bloggers and those that want to dabble for the first time.

She said: “Health literacy and digital skills are now necessary life skills and these continue to grow in importance as more and more everyday activities and sources of information and inspiration move online. 

“Most of us know when we are mentally and physically well, but sometimes we need a little extra support to keep well and guidance in terms of being aware of when we need to take more action.

“The Blogging Inspiration events aim to provide library users with the opportunity to stay informed, tap into the expertise of others ‘on the day’, to encourage socialising with peers on an ongoing basis, and to inspire audiences with real life stories and examples.”

The panel chosen for Omagh library are active local bloggers that specialise in health and wellbeing as their core subject.

Speaker Deborah King began her blogging journey after attending a Get Blogging course by Libraries NI in 2018 and has since spoken at a Get Blogging for Wellness showcase.

“I am thrilled to have been asked to speak again at yet another great #GetBloggingNI session,” she said. “I have just moved to the Tyrone area in the last year and I’m delighted that the Blogging Inspiration Sessions are happening in Omagh.”

After attending her first #GetBloggingNI event Deborah wanted to start her blog right away.

“The start of the library course by Training Matchmaker coincided with me attending a speaking and writing conference in Orlando, Florida. I figured I would talk about my adventures in Orlando but I got writers block and I realised that I had to tell my story and talk about how I got to where I am first.”

She was soon on her way to blogging, publishing her first blog on November 27^th, 2018.

“The words that flowed out of my mind, through my pen and onto the page turned out to be a list of things I remember doing which showed the journey I had taken from being someone with depression to now being someone who felt empowered and in control of their life.

“If  one of my blogs helps even one person in any way than that is what I call a successful blog.

“For anyone who is even remotely considering blogging, especially in relation to Health and Wellbeing, I would urge them to do so.” 

Julie Reid, Libraries NI Service Development Manager, added: “Libraries NI is all about promoting an inclusive society, introducing people to new experiences, ideas and reliable information. Libraries give people the opportunity to access a range of free services, health resources and events which can help improve a person’s health and wellbeing.

“The shift to online services, in particular, has changed the way in which we live, work and socialise. It is hoped attendees will come away from the workshop equipped with the knowledge and confidence to engage with the 5 steps to Wellbeing in their daily lives both online and offline.”

The host for the event is Tina Calder, of Content Club and Excalibur Press.

The 90-minute free event runs from 6pm and can be booked through Eventbrite at trainingmatchmaker.eventbrite.com 

Start your romantic Valentines weekend on Thursday 13 February, with the Viennese Strauss Gala at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre, as they recreate the nostalgia and romance of the Viennese Festive season.

This show introduces the audience to a bygone age of glamorous soirees and Strauss waltzes, and comprises highlights from some of the great operettas of Strauss, Kalman and Lehar, including ‘Die Fledermaus’, ‘The Merry Widow’, and many more.

This fascinating show is performed by soloists from major British Opera companies, such as Opera Welsh National opera, D’Oyle Carte and Scottish Opera, and will feature internationally renowned soprano Megan Llewelyn whose recent roles include Mother Abbess in ‘The Sound of Music’ and Carlotta in the West End production of ‘The Phantom Of The Opera’.

The film screening of the classic ‘When Harry Met Sally’, is the perfect entertainment for Friday’s Valentines night. Starring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan we follow a blossoming friendship and Harry’s determination not to destroy it. But when a night of weakness ends in panic, can the pair admit they might just be the perfect match for each other? Admission will include a glass of prosecco.

Then on Saturday 15 February, enjoy the perfect Valentine’s night out with our annual and hugely popular ‘In the Mood’ with The PM Big Band’. They bring a classic mix of vocals and instrumentals from The Great American Song Book including selections from Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Frank Sinatra and other legends from the ageless and ever-popular genre. Adding a little spice, the band will flavour the evening with big band versions of some modern classics ensuring an evening of music to appeal to everyone. 

Tickets for all events can be purchased by contacting the Box Office on [028] 3752 1821, or online at www.marketplacearmagh.com

Keep up-to-date with the latest news at the Market Place Theatre, follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/marketplacearmagh) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/mptarmagh) where you will find all the latest information, special offers and video previews.

The City of Derry International Choir Festival has opened applications for participation in the 8^th edition of the autumn festival, due to take place from Wednesday 21 October until Sunday 25 October 2020.

Last year’s event (October 2019) was an outstanding success that saw 80 choirs participating in 69 events in 30 venues across the Derry and Strabane region, with audiences of over 15,500 throughout festival week. The festival brought over 2,800 bed-nights to the city, during off-peak season, resulting in ‘House Full’ signs in many of the local hotels, and visitor spend was estimated at over £250k while attending the annual event.

Organisers have already begun planning for 2020 and look forward to welcoming guest performers and choirs from around the world to take part in five days of wonderful choral singing comprising concerts, workshops, choral and sacred trails, competitions and conducting masterclasses.

In addition to the usual format, the festival will introduce two new elements to the 2020 event. Primary schools from across the Northwest will be invited to take part in a BIG SING with a difference, when 1,000 voices will come together for a very special day of workshopping and performing of a brand-new, specially-commissioned piece of music by Belfast composer Brian Irvine. Another new feature of the festival will see the winners of all national competitions go head-to-head in a sing-off to be crowned National Choir of the Festival.

As always, one of the highlights of the festival will be the International Competition, in which selected choirs will compete for the prestigious ‘Oak Tree of Derry’ trophy, as well as a cash prize of £2,000. The quality and range of international choirs participating in this competition is growing each year, and expressions of interest are already in from exciting choirs in Europe and Asia so early applications are recommended to avoid disappointment.

Dónal Doherty, Artistic Director of the festival, says “Festival 2020 is already shaping up to be very exciting, with a strong emphasis on events that will demonstrate the power of music to improve the quality of life for all. This will be a transformative event for the whole city.” Details of how to apply and other festival information is available at www.derrychoirfest.com.

‘Evolve’ is a new art exhibition on display in Armagh’s Market Place Theatre, created in a variety of mediums by the service users and staff of the Southern Health and Social Care Trust. The artworks suggest how works of art and people evolve over time.

The Arts Care Artists-in-Residence in the Southern Health and Social Care Trust, Jill McKeown, Eddie Rafferty and Gwen Stevenson, facilitate participants to create artwork for themselves and to enhance their environments.

This work is a testimony to the impact art has on staff, service users, family and visitors to the Southern Health and Care Trust. The exhibition will run from Saturday 25 January – Saturday 29 February.

To keep up-to-date with the latest news at the Market Place Theatre, you can follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/marketplacearmagh) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/mptarmagh) where you will find all the latest information, special offers and video previews.

Let your little ones unleash their creativity this February as part of the Playful Museum Festival 2020. 

This programme of weekly interactive and educational events for children aged from 3 months to 5 years will take place each Saturday during February at Museum at The Mill, Mossley Mill.

These playful sessions have been chosen specially to encourage social development skills in young children as well as creativity, imagination and enjoyment while learning in a relaxed museum environment.

Kicking of these five fantastic weeks of fun is Sensory story telling with Vicky McFarland and Tig the Dragon. These sensory sessions are active with no books, no sitting just lots of play, making them ideal for babies, tots and early years. The festival continues with Lego, Jo Jingles Music, Messy Play and Clay making workshops which are sure to enthral and delight your children.

For more details and bookings please visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/museumplaydays or call Box Office T: 028 9034 0202

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