What To Do This Halloween Festival?
Galway Abooo Halloween Festival 24th, 25th & 31 Oct 2015
Galways Halloween festival is fast becoming Ireland’s biggest street party this festival weekend. We all know how popular Galway is with numerous festivals and events throughout the year generally attracting bumper crowds. Well Halloween will be no different with lots happening for young and old.
Macnas host the Halloween parade which promises to every bit as dramatic in theme, style and costume as the theatric group consistently deliver and entertain the Galway crowds every year. The city centre streets will be buzzing and the atmosphere is always electric at this event.
The Monster Dash takes place on Halloween day commencing at 7:00 at Kings Head. The event starts and finishes here. Participants really get into the Halloween spirit dressing up in fancy dress and character, in fact there are prizes for best costumes etc so don’t forget to bring your most extravagant outfit.
Co Meath Halloween Festival
The Spirit of Meath Halloween festival has a historic theme celebrating over 2000 years of Halloween tradition in Meath. Local historian Joe Conlon hosts the event kicking of with the Samhain festival which first took place 2000 years ago. A spiritual gathering highlighting the summer just past and winter season just upon us. Praying to the Gods that the rain season will not be too harsh and harvests will blossom in the coming spring.
The festival has a real international flavour to it with visitors from 19 different countries in 2014 and that figure expected to increase further in 2015. Celebrating all things Halloween so expects lots of witches, ghosts and pumpkins. So don’t let the spiritual theme put you off, bring the kids with you they will have a ball.
The Bram Stoker Festival Dublin City
Presented by the Arts Centre Project the Bram Stoker has something for everyone. Bram Stoker was an historical figure in Dublin who had great love for the Arts and all things Theatre. So you can imagine the Theatrical theme approach on Halloween including story telling and performances that will keep enthralled.
If you are hosting a Halloween party this weekend iām sure the preparations are well under way at this stage. Pumkins, Halloween Tricker Treats, Nuts and Halloween costumes are all great party entertainment. If you are printing any party decorations, be it halloween figures like witches, ghosts or dracula we recommend T0715 Ink cartridges ā excellent for home printing for party events.
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2 Reasons Why Ireland are Out of World Cup
Ireland failed again at the quarter final stage in the Rugby World Cup. After a horrible opening 20 minutes, when conceded 2 tries and 2 penalties, they had managed to crawl their way back into the match at 23-20. The lack of leadership became very evident, Ireland were dominating the match at this crucial stage but could not take the opportunities that came their way. Instead, Argentina got the next score and from here on there was only one winner. Ireland actually didn’t score for the remainder of the match.
The damage was done in the first half, Ireland really look out of sorts and failed to hit the ground running. Argentina out of the blocks early, hitting every tackle with total commitment, the defence exceptionally tight leaving no openings and the backs showing flair and creativity that we can only admire. Unfortunately when Ireland realised they were in a match it was to late with the gap too large.
Why did this happen? Two possible reasons maybe. The obvious reason being Ireland were missing a third of the team, and guys missing we’re all the best, experience players playing in pivotal positions. We can talk about having big enough squads and replacements just as good. But could any team in the world in any sport lose their 4 best players with the most experience and expect to turn out similar performances? Strip New Zealand a third of their team and see they perform. The reality is that to win these tournaments you need a great team and a great amount of luck. Ireland had no luck at all, were injuries concerned, intact they had downright cruel luck.
The second reason we are out of the World Cup was not what happened at the match on Sunday, but a week earlier against France. Ireland and France were preparing for the game for the last 12 months. It was billed as the passport to an easier quarter final. How wrong was everybody. There was high emotion going into that game, motivation was high, tackles and collisions were furious, passions and tempers were boiling over. The result was battered and bruised bodies who had given their all. Energies were low and week is not enough for sufficient recover and mentally get prepared for another huge match of similar intensity.
Where France was Ireland’s World Cup Final, Ireland was Argentina’s World Cup Final. Argentina knew realistically they would be Playing Ireland or France in the quarter final and that would be the important match. OK the played New Zealand but were they ever going to beat them and more importantly did they expect to beat them. With 2-3 weeks recover that ample time to get ready for the quarter final.
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Was Steve Jobs (Founder Of Apple) Really This Nasty?
Michael Fassbender gives an incredible performance in the new Steve Jobs film portraying Apple’s founder and life changing technology which he was at the forefront of. The film does give a ruthless, uncompromising and determined character who would walk through whoever got in his way. Perhaps one off Fassbender’s better performances, he captures the highly charged, intense and fast moving story that was Apple under Steve’s guidance.
Demanding and sometimes horrible with his colleges but yet still the genius comes through. There are no boundaries on the lows, and nobody not even family or friends escape Steve’s vile abuse and manipulation. This none stop emotional fireworks leave us on the edge of our seats for the whole film. Turning on his closest allies and using his enemies to the extent where bullying is too attentive a word to describe. Quite frankly we do not know who is next in firing line. Steve Jobs was obviously a very driven, ambitious man, but the film highlights a self loathing arrogant man that becomes obsessed with his product, the company and most importantly himself.
But how true and accurate is the film’s portrayal of Steve Jobs and life in Apple. Was Steve really this bad? Was he really this obnoxious, vile and utterly ruthless. Only concerned with himself and the ego crusade with Apple and his products. What about the highly creative and innovative Steve that we were sold by Apple. Surely, this version of Steve could have been as successful as he, driving a company to world domination with products that have changed the face of technology forever and indeed how we live our everyday lives. Infact, one could leave the film believing that Steve was a specialist in organised Kaos rather that the driving force of a hugely successful organisation.
Steve’s family for one are at odds with the film producers, being really annoyed at the film’s portrayal of Steve. The Steve they knew may have been single minded and extremely determined, but Steve was also a kind decent family guy who loved his family very much.
The filmmakers have been unmoved by stinging criticism from Steve’s family. In their defence they describe the film as a story of Steve Jobs and Appleās remarkable growth. Not a factual tale of Steve’s professional life, hence, the fabrications of certain stories in the film.
The film is set to launch this week in Ireland so hopefully it is a big success with Irish actor Michael Fassbender headlining the film. If you are a big fan you can print out Steve Jobs film posters with our T0715 Ink ā ideal for home printing.
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“Ireland To Win Rugby World Cup” UK Press Reaction
Ireland goes into battle this weekend against the ever-improving Argentina with a severely depleted squad. The fantastic victory over the French obviously came at a huge cost with injuries to Paul O’Connell, Peter O’Mahony and out half Johny Sexton. Sean O’Brien also now suspended for 1 week making him unavailable for the game but a possible return should Ireland get past the Argentine challenge.
After such a gallant effort on Sunday, it has been all doom and gloom, not the rewards Ireland deserved having top their group. But all’s not lost according to some UK newspapers. The Daily Telegraph is convinced Ireland will prevail this weekend buoyant by the performances of the replacements that came on against the French.
In fact, the Irish team seem to raise their game even further despite losing key leaders. Ian Madigan, Ian Henderson and Chris Henry’s talent is unquestioned, but their impact on the game mirrored that of experienced players putting in a spectacular shift which had a major influence in the outcome of the match.
The signs must be positive for the next round games. These players more than capable of filling the void left by the missing players. The UK’s Daily Mail recognised not only the substitutes role but the reaction of the whole team in the second period. Having lost 3 big leaders on the pitch Ireland gained 15 leaders all over the pitch. Let’s not forget this French team are a serious outfit full of pedigree and big names. Building nicely through the opening games and many people favorites to go far in the tournament. Not only did Ireland beat these guys, they blew them away especially in the latter end of the game.
For this reason we should take great confidence into the knockout stages of the Rugby World Cup. Ireland is now a serious team with a serious chance of going the whole way. You can bet your bottom dollar after watching Sunday’s game New Zealand are more than happy to avoid playing the Irish in the quarter-final.
Injuries will play their part and Ireland have been unfortunate, but the other teams will pick up injuries too. This weekend’s match will not match the intensity of last weeks so the casualty list will not be as long. There are only 2 games left after Argentina, a semi-final and final. It’s all to play for…game on.
To celebrate Irelandās match with Argentina, we have some great special offers this weekend so you can capture all the rugby action with some great high res picture printouts from your favorite printer ink shop in Dublin.
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Limerickās New Regeneration
Limerick’s new regeneration plan aims to revive the local economy and generate thousands of new jobs. On a relatively low budget, Limerick is determined to become a major force in Ireland and Europe.
The plan focuses on the business sector. Ireland is already an attractive pad for major businesses to set up shop with low tax rates, universal language and highly skilled workforce. By improving the business facilities and infrastructure, Limerick can be a big attraction.
The heart of every city is the city centre area. It must be buzzing with activity driving the whole city. Business activity, shopping and socialising. Sadly Limericks city centre has been neglected in recent years probably due to lack of resources. By making this the focal point, it can be the catalyst in the regeneration.
How can this be achieved with limited money available? If the resources available are spent wisely, perhaps a facelift in the main city centre street, 1 or 2 retail developments acting as a cornerstone or a business hub centre developed in a carefully selected location with potential for development.
Part of the problem is the success of the out of town retail facility recently build. A fantastic site there is no question, but it does impact on the city centre with locals choosing to spend their money there. Less shopping in the city centre simple means less shops. The knock on effect this has on cafƩs, restaurants and hotels. Less money in circulation will input other business sectors like construction and technology. The service providers around this like Accountants, solicitors, IT, Stationery and Ink Cartridge Shops in Limerick.
The clever idea is to reduce rates for the city centre businesses in an effort to open up more commercial properties. There’s nothing worse than a street full of unused shops etc. How viable this is is unknown, can the local council afford a reduction in revenue even it could be a short term loss presuming the plan works and businesses start taking up the offer.
A busier city centre with more shops like men’s and women’s clothes, major food chains, mobile phone shops, technology, electric appliance shops, furniture and even printer ink shops in Limerick. More shoppers spending feeding the hotels and bars, using the local transport.
Click here to shop for best value ink cartridges in Limerick Ā»
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U2 Dublin 3Arena Dates Will Offer Fans Something New
U2’s Dublin gigs have sold out in quick time along with 2 concerts in Belfast. Lucky ticket holders can expect something different as the small arena shows are in great contrast to U2’s big stadium shows.
U2 have had a tough year thus far with the latest album supposedly force fed to millions of I Phone users around the world. Bono having a serious accident that prevents him from playing the guitar in the future. But thankfully the new Innocence and Experience tour has changed U2 year for the better.
The line up combines the new material with all the old classics. But in a very personal context and theme. Old movies and animations from the bands earlier years proved very striking and effective.
In fact some of the video and 3D effects provide a real treat. Bono and Edge seemingly interacting with the video animation. Very expensive I’m sure to create but worth every penning for all the fans.
Again U2’s ability to keep things fresh has led to good reviews from the USA leg of the tour. Highlighting with 10 nights in a row in Madison Square Garden all sold out.
If you are going to the Dublin Gigs remember we have ink for high pixel concert images in our Dublin ink shop. Really capturing the moment from 3Arena Dublin.
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Microsoft Now Irelandās Highest Exporters
Microsoft has been named as the highest exporting company in Ireland, taking over from Google who previously held the accolade, in 2015.
Increasing the turnover by 3 billion Microsoft performance has out performed it’s rivals with 1 billion to spur. This improvement can be seen right across the board with exporting figures continuing to climb over last few years. Signs that the economy is growing which will have a positive effect on employment opportunities in Ireland.
The exporting sector has been credited with the upturn in the Irish economy. After the property bubble burst in 2008, the economy was in freefall for a number of years. Multi national companies, like Google and Microsoft, investing heavily in Ireland, taking advantage of the light taxation laws, with up side of this creating more jobs and generating tax revenue for the country.Ā Technology companies in particular have made base in Ireland with Dublin being crowned the tech capital of Europe.
Engineering business have seen a rise in the back of the multinational success. With more investment being made, which is feeding into infrastructure development. The service industry has also improved with more people working the services that go with this flourish. Food services like Cafeās and restaurants. Business services like Solicitors, Accountants, Stationery, ICT benefit. Ink Shops in Ireland achieved growth in this period. Some Irish Ink online business have diversified their sales into the technology area. Laptops, Mobiles and PCs can be purchased on many of these websites. A practise we may see a lot more off with businesses trying to target other sectors where the demand and rewards are greater.
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Dublin’s O’Connell Street Celebrations
Dublin celebrated Sam Maguire’s return to the capital county for 2015. A massive night of celebrations is starting with a welcome party on O’Connell street this evening.
Following their comprehensive 3 point victory over Kerry, all be it on the scoreboard, a huge crowd came out to the city centre to welcome Dublin’s Hero’s. Supporters turn out in their thousands and were greeted to nice dry weather following the horrible conditions that lasted right through Sunday’s All-Ireland decider. After a full years football picking up the O’Byrne Cup, National League and the Sam Maguire it was now time to party.
The stage was built on the top of O’Connell Street and the fans and players enjoyed the atmosphere. In fact, they were treated to some wonderful songs from the players which were quite impressive considering the long night on Sunday night. I’m quite certain there would have very little sleep and maybe a few drinks here and there.
As a result, there were some restrictions to accessing the city centre, with a lot of the main junctions and roads closed. The event began in upper O’Connell Street beside the Dublin Ink Shop before moving down OāDonnell Street past the GPO and the Spire. After the entertainment finished the team moved swiftly on the begin visiting all the clubs. Expected to run into the early hours of the morning the squad will continue on Tuesday and Wednesday night.
So our congratulations to Dublin on their well deserved victory. They have demonstrated the best football over 2015, in the year that good football was in scarce supply.
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The Tactical Battle – GAA’s Showpiece Dublin V Kerry
Let the rivalry begin or should we say recommence. Yes, Dublin v Kerry in the All-Ireland Final, the glamour team against the aristocrats, the two most successful teams of our generation.
Kerry with all the history, pedigree and experience going for two in a row. It has not been achieved since the great Cork team of the eighties.Ā Larry ThompkinsĀ and co brought the Sam Maguire back to Munster two years running. Wouldn’t it be fitting if Corks great rivals were the next team to manage such a feat.
Dublin aiming to spoil the party, of course, with the Hill 16 in full voice that 16 men could make all the difference.
Increasingly these big games are being decided by tactics. Both managers will analysis the opposition to fine detail. Kerry has proven they can win playing open football, but if things get nasty Kerry will not be found wanting. Ask Donegal in 2015 or Tyrone in 2015 semi final. The ability to play and win both ways make the approach that much harder for Dublin. Closing down space, keeping things tight against Kerry just won’t cut it. Kerry can adapt and will get scores from midfield and attacking half backs. So paying special attention to Kerry forwards like Gooch and co will only leave space for others.
We could say the same about Dublin. In 2014 free flowing football running big scores against all opposition. A joy to watch until Donegal came to Croke park and spoilt the party. Donegal ruthlessly exposed Dublin’s lack of cover in the half back area when the attacks broke down. However in 2015 Dublin have addressed this. They don’t commit defenders forward with same numbers. This exposes them less to counter attacks and it does not seem to diminish their attack as the high scoring has continued. The Mayo match should be proof of this. Both teams did set up defensively in both games, picking defence and looking to break quickly. The fact Mayo did push up on Dublin’s kick outs, preferring to have extra bodies in defence. Dublin past the test convincingly in the replay, a sign that they are ready for whatever strategy Kerry bring to the table.
2013 does come to mind, though, Kerry went man for man on Dublin kick-outs preventing Dublin from keeping possession. This made a big impact on the game and although Dublin won the tactic cause them a lot of problems. It will be a major surprise if the tactic is not repeated.
If you are one of the lucky supporters who has got their hands on match tickets online, you can print the tickets using ink from the Dublin printer ink shop.
Yes, tactics being order of the day. Who would bet againstĀ Eamonn Fitzmaurice the master tactician. Dublin supporters will for a start…. but will their players?
If you are going to the match on Sunday email us any photos of the action and we will publish next week on the blogs. For printing the photos you can purchase ink on our Dublin ink cartridge website online.
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