The Psychology of Bonus Rounds: How Slot Game Features Affect Player Engagement

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September 26, 2023

Slot machines are a great way to spend your free time and potentially make a little bit of extra cash on the side. Slot machines have come a long way since the Liberty Bell was made in the 1890s. You can find the best slots for real money here. but how do the newer features like bonus rounds, free spins, and outlandish themes add to the slot machine experience?

Bonus Round, Bonus Money?

Whether you’re playing the online slots or if you’re at the local venue putting your coins in the machine – it’s a regular feature to see a bonus round. These come in all shapes and sizes. Some of them come with the price of admission (usually known as free spins), whereas some are seen as a bonus bet. I.e. if a player wins, they have the option to wager their winnings on a bonus spin. Depending on when the bonus rounds appear it can give the player an incentive to keep on playing.

How Many Free Spins Did You Say Again?

One of the most common phrases seen around gambling marketing is ‘sign up now and you’ll get [insert number here] free spins!’. The draw is supposed to be that you’ll get to gamble with the house’s money. On the surface, it sounds great when you sign up and get an inordinate amount of free spins. However, more experienced slot machine players and online casino users appreciate the drawstrings attached to these promises. Normally, you can only play on specific machines – which they may have manipulated to pay out less often. It’s usually above board but can be frustrating. However, to those who might not be as well versed in it the advent of X-amount of free spins could present remarkable value. New players could think that they are getting a good deal and sign up regardless.

Of course, these are usually only available on the online slots. Although, if you know the barman very well he might use his slot machine owner keys to give you a free play on the slot if he can do so.

Hold a Reel

One of the most prominent features of slot machines is the ability to hold a reel or multiple reels. This is where the player has landed on some reels that they would like to keep for the next spin. The remaining reels spin as usual but the held reels stay the same as they were before. This usually costs additional money or currency that is earned online.; sometimes it is given as a reward when a player reaches a specific amount of spins.

Some online slots however are pre-determined results meaning that holding a reel doesn’t change your odds of winning, at all. However, not everyone appreciates that. Some gamblers on the slot machine think it gives them an element of control over the games, meaning that they play such games offering this feature.

Decorative and Appealing Themes for Slots

Aesthetic attributes play a large role in attracting players to play slot machines in both the online and offline worlds. They serve as an important pillar in attracting people who might not be otherwise interested in playing slot machines to part with their money. There are slots based on popular TV shows and musical acts which do that very successfully. There are even a few sports-themed ones which try to attract people, i.e. the ice hockey-themed slot game which must be popular in Canada.

Do More Features Mean More Fun?

Yes and no. As we enter into a world where eSports and online gambling become closer and closer, the demand for bonus playability and features within online slot machines is somewhat needed to appeal to new and younger audiences.

There are however the classic slot machine fans who still enjoy the simplicity of the ‘spin and win’ elements. While none of them want a return to the mechanical slot machines of yesteryear, they don’t see the appeal of having too many extra features. After all, if a slot machine game has ALL of the possible extra features and added play elements then it could become rather confusing and take away from the appeal of what is supposed to be a simple casino game.

Ultimately, it’s down to the audience and what they want from a slot machine experience.

Galway band The Opacas to launch debut album with Róisín Dubh gig on Friday

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Michael Malone

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September 25, 2023

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galway daily news local pop rock band the opacas who will release first album with gig at Roisin Dubh

Galway pop rock band The Opacas will launch their debut album Carpe Diem this week with a show at Róisín Dubh on Friday.

The show will also mark The Opacas’ third birthday, as they transition from being solely virtual, born of the 2020 lockdowns, into a live touring and performing band.

Carpe Diem will feature the essential Opacas mix of pop, rock, blues, and Americana, showcasing new material as well as all of their singles to date – from debut release, ‘Out Of My Mind’ to the recent ‘Shine On’ recorded with the Moycullen Musical Society.

The Opacas were formed during the Covid lockdown in March 2020 when all live music performances were suspended. The band’s members Steve Talbot, Peter Tobin, Pat Boyle, Joe Treacy, Mike McLoughlin, and Leeds based guitarist Mark Raynor, used simple apps on mobile phones to compose and share music with each other.

They finally got to meet in person when recording the video for ‘Out Of My Mind’ in a Salthill pub in September 2020.

This began a slew of singles from the Galwegians, accompanied by imaginative and inventive videos, often recorded in collaboration with other performers from various fields.

Singles such as ‘She Walks Away’ and ‘We Won’t Look Back’ featured story-based videos with actors from the Knocknacarra Amateur Theatre Society and Athenry Drama Group.

The band also created stripped down, piano-only versions of their songs, with videos displaying works by visual artist Aoife Dowd and Patrick Kenneally, and by photographer Dr Chaosheng Zang.

This commitment to collaborate with other creatives is a hallmark of The Opacas.

“It’s not just about us,” said lead vocalist Steve Talbot. “We wanted to use our music to showcase local artistic talent.”

The Opacas most recent single ‘Shine On’ is a tribute to a close work colleague who died suddenly in 2019 at the age of 42.

The melody is a call to the universe for his spirit to shine on, as the lyrics encompass the need to embrace the transience of life.

The creation of the song, and its debut performance in Galway’s historic St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, was captured by emerging Galway filmmaker Greta Thornton in a documentary screened at the Eye Cinema in April.

The launch of Carpe Diem in the Róisín Dubh and the band’s third birthday celebrations marks the start of a new chapter in the life of The Opacas, and an invitation to all music fans to ‘seize the day’ and join in the fun.

Admission is free and the gig starts at midnight. Support is from singer-songwriter Tomás Ó Cáinte who released his debut single ‘Grand Canyon’ this month.

Beautiful new dental clinic launches in Galway City

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Michael Malone

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September 25, 2023

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galway daily news galway dental group's new clinic in galway city

A new, state-of-the-art dental clinic has been launched in Galway city following a €1.5million investment into a 370 square meter premises on Sean Mulvoy Road.

The Galway Dental Group aims to solve the issue of long waiting lists for dental care in the west of Ireland thanks to a team of leading dental experts.

Dr Alma and Paul Creaven launched the Galway Dental Group, who have combined clinical dental experience of over 25 years.

They will introduce flexible late evening and family-friendly weekend appointments, and deliver premium dental care and treatments.

The clinic offers the latest technologies, including AI-powered smile architecture, where patients can get a visual representation of their treatment outcome at the consultation stage.

Speaking about the launch, founder Dr Alma Creaven said they are delighted to welcome patients to Galway Dental Group and provide a much-needed service to those based in Galway and the neighbouring counties.

“Having worked in the dental industry for over two decades, we understand patients’ concerns from sedation to cosmetic dentistry,” said Dr Creaven.

“We wanted to create a welcoming and inviting space that offered transparency and education at every step, from procedural costs to treatment outcomes and everything in between.

“At Galway Dental Group, we want to showcase a new era of dentistry that focuses on sustainable and innovative dental care using the latest technology, delivering premium dental, orthodontic, sedation and cosmetic services in a calm and nurturing environment.”

The new clinic also boasts a range of in-house technologies, which include a state-of-the-art scanner that can detect decay without the need for an x-ray, making it suitable for pregnant and vulnerable patients.

The clinic has solar panels installed, while the design brings the outdoors in with a neutral colour palette of sage combined with serene landscape wallpaper, wooden beams, oak wood, and chevron flooring.

Clean up begins on problem field near ‘rat infested’ estate

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Michael Malone

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September 25, 2023

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galway daily news loughrea estate residents protesting dumping in field causing rats — Residents of Fahy Gardens protesting outside the Loughrea Area office about illegal dumping near their houses

Clean up works have begun on a field beside Fahy Gardens in Loughrea where illegal dumping had been taking place, causing rats to appear in the back gardens of local residents.

Cllr Declan Kelly, who welcomed the works, called on the County Council to also erect gates leading into the laneway at the rear of houses near the field to obstruct those who have been throwing household rubbish into the field.

Cllr Kelly has been working for the past number of weeks to ensure that the field that has been the focus of illegal dumping beside Fahy Gardens is cleaned up.

He said that the dumping has caused untold problems for residents of Fahy Gardens and especially because it has drawn vermin with the distress of rats appearing in back gardens.

“The measures I have requested be implemented, which includes the setting of bait boxes and waste enforcement measures, will also assist in solving this problem,” he said.

Cllr Kelly added that it is important that those who are accessing the lanes at the rear of people’s houses to dump household rubbish are stopped.

Fahy Gardens resident Claudia Kinsella said thanked Cllr Declan Kelly for being “the only councillor to respond to the problem” of illegal dumping in the field.

“He has always been available by phone and I support his call for gates to be erected at the entrance to the back lanes which illegal dumpers have been using,” she said.

Portiuncula Hospital gifted 400 books as part of Read Mór initiative

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Michael Malone

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September 25, 2023

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galway daily news read mór initiative at portiuncula hospital — From left: Dr Lisa O’Sullivan, SPR, Obstetrics and Gynaecology; Dr Marie Christine De Tavernier, Consultant Obstetrician/Gynaecologist; Read Mór Representative; Ms Ron Goldaphel Alforque, Clinical Nurse Manager 1, St Clare’s Ward; Dr Naser Shayoub, Registrar in Anaesthetics and Read Mór Representative.

Portiuncula University Hospital (PUH) has been selected as one of seven hospitals to participate in Read Mór, an Arts Council initiative to celebrate Culture Night.

Staff at PUH welcomed the Read Mór doctors and their teams last Friday where they gifted 400 free books from their Library Trolleys to patients in the hospital.

The Read Mór book gifting project is now in its second year and offers patients in selected hospitals an opportunity to get involved with Culture Night and escape to the furthest reaches of their imagination with a choice of 29 different books by Irish based authors and publishers.

Once finished reading, patients are encouraged to pass on their book when they leave hospital to a family member or friend.

With a wide variety being gifted, some as Gaeilge, there are titles to suit all interests and ages, from novels, short stories, poetry, memoirs, to children’s and young adult books. Audiobook versions of a selection of the titles are also available.

James Keane, Hospital Manager expressed huge gratitude to the Arts Council and Healthy Ireland for bringing this event to PUH.

“I was so pleased to welcome the Read Mór team to the hospital on Friday and I wish to thank the Arts Council and Healthy Ireland for involving our patients and staff in Culture Night,” he said.

“Cognitive stimulation is a really important component of health, wellbeing and recovery from illness.

“We know that staying physically and mentally active during a hospital stay helps patients to recover faster and this gift of books, which is spreading the joy of reading throughout the hospital, will be of huge benefit to our patients.”

Margaret Flannery, Director of Saolta Arts said that they were delighted to host the Book Doctors and their team in Portiuncula University Hospital for Culture Night 2023.

“Read Mór was a huge success and we are very grateful to the Arts Council in selecting such a variety of high quality Irish authors to share their work with patients and staff on the wards, corridors and waiting areas of our hospitals.

“Importantly this initiative brings cultural experiences to people who cannot access other cultural activities on Culture Night through ill health or work commitments.

“Thank you for bringing the gift of reading to them and hopefully when they get home they will remember their hospital experience as a positive one.”

Galway TDs call for review of An Garda Síochána amid morale and staffing issues

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Briain Kelly

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September 25, 2023

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Galway Daily news Man dies after car goes into the water

A group of Galway TDs have raised serious concerns about ongoing morale and staffing issues in An Garda Síochána.

The Regional Group of TDs, which includes Galway’s Seán Canney, Denis Naughten, and Noel Grealish, have ublished a motion expressing severe concerns regarding the ongoing challenges faced by An Garda Síochána.

The motion calls for an immediate review of An Garda Síochána, and engagement with all shareholders, with recommendations to be published within 12 weeks.

The group have expressed particular concern about declining morale and issues around retention, the mandatory retirement age of 60 years, recruitment, transfers, rostering, entry-level pay, and the need to improve work practices.

“The Regional Group state that we must address the increasing assaults on Gardaí while on duty,” the groups said in a statement.

“We should get tougher on such crimes and create new legislation to act as a deterrent with mandatory custodial sentences for the criminal action of purposefully causing injury to a Garda”.

In their motion, the Regional Group TDs note the role of community policing in building solid relationships, fostering cooperation, and proactively addressing local concerns.

They seek to guarantee a baseline per capita Garda figure in each county to ensure that certain areas in the state are not under-policed.

The motion seeks for the number of Gardaí to be increased to 16,000 by the year 2028, and for the establishment of a mandatory custodial sentence for attacking Gardaí.

It also asks for the abandonment of all rostering changes until after the review is completed.

The shift back to pre-pandemic rosters was one of if not the driving issue behind the Garda Representative Association overwhelmingly voting no confidence in Commissioner Drew Harris recently.

Galway Food Tours Named Among the ‘World’s Tastiest’

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Briain Kelly

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September 25, 2023

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Galway Food Tours has been named in the prestigious list of the ‘World’s Tastiest Autumn Food Experiences’ by Sunday Times Ireland.

This exclusive compilation features 25 extraordinary food adventures from around the globe, highlighting Galway Food Tours’ exceptional contribution to the culinary world.

Galway Food Tours stands out as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts looking to savor the flavors of autumn in Ireland.

The list showcases an array of adventures, ranging from an Italian chestnut festival to foraging for German forest mushrooms and indulging in New York state wine and cider doughnuts.

Galway Food Tours is part of this esteemed selection, representing Ireland’s rich gastronomic culture and the city’s vibrant food scene.

Galway Food Tours has been recognised for its commitment to providing an immersive and unforgettable culinary journey through the heart of Galway. The tours offer participants the opportunity to discover the city’s hidden culinary gems.

Founder of Galway Food Tours,Sheena Dignam, “We are honoured to be included, this acknowledgment is a testament to the dedication of our team and the incredible culinary talent we have in Galway.

We look forward to welcoming food enthusiasts from around the world to join us in experiencing the magic of autumn in Galway.”

For more information about Galway Food Tours and to book your food adventure, check out www.galwayfoodtours.com.

Four ATU research teams win SFI funding to help address societal challenges

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Briain Kelly

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September 25, 2023

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GAL News - Dr Amaya Vega (right) and Myra Lydon (UoG) at ATU Galway (SFI Bridges project) — Dr Amaya Vega, Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Galway, and co-lead Dr Myra Lydon, University of Galway, pictured on campus at Dublin Road, Galway. Photo: Mike Shaughnessy.

Four ATU research teams have secured funding from Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) for projects related to infrastructure, agriculture, social issues, and more.

The research teams aim to come up with solutions to societal challenges through engagement and collaboration with communities, with funding under the National Challenge Fund announced recently by Higher Education Minister Simon Harris.

The Challenge sees 25 research teams lead projects aimed at helping Ireland prepare for its green transition and digital transformation.

The National Challenge Fund is a €65 million programme established under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan and funded by the European Union’s Recovery and Resilience Facility.

The four ATU teams are Business lecturer Dr Amaya Vega (ATU Galway) and co-lead Civil Engineering lecturer Dr Myra Lydon, (University of Galway); Physics lecturer Dr Niall Maloney (ATU Galway) and Professor Enda McGlynn (DCU); Engineering lecturer Dr Ruth Quinn (ATU Sligo) and Social Science lecturer Dr Natalie Delimata (ATU Sligo); Science lecturer Dr Shane O’Reilly (ATU Sligo) and Dr Ruairí Brannigan (DCU).

Bridge management & infrastructure investment

Dr Amaya Vega’s and Dr Myra Lydon’s project “EMBRACE-Mobility” takes a community-centric approach to bridge management and infrastructure investment prioritisation to ensure the mobility needs of rural communities are taken into consideration.

They will engage with the Western Development Commission (WDC), Galway County Council and other stakeholders.

“EMBRACE-Mobility will bring together transport researchers and rural communities in County Galway to understand the extent of the wider effects associated with bridge failure and to address the issue of climate adaptation and the sustainability of many rural communities,” explains Dr Vega.

“This novel approach to consider the value of bridge investments in terms of safeguarding mobility will provide vital evidence in securing future funding to maintain aging bridges connecting rural communities,” adds Dr Lydon.

“Bridges carry many other critical infrastructure services, including power, telecommunications and water, their importance is often overlooked. EMBRACE will for the first time enable us to understand the cascading impact of bridge loss across the region.”

Reversing social isolation

Dr Ruth Quinn’s and Dr Natalie Delimata’s interdisciplinary project will explore how to address the dual issues of social isolation and environmental decline.

It aims to support people’s mental and environmental health by empowering communities to create spaces that enable social connection through interaction with nature

Detecting disease in fish

The NanoSA team lead by Dr Niall Maloney (ATU) and co-lead Professor Enda McGlynn (DCU) are working with team Societal Impact Champion Catherine McManus (Mowi Ireland) to further improve the sustainability of the Irish Aquaculture Industry by developing technology for the rapid diagnosis of pathogenic infections at farm sites.

“Current methods for the diagnosis of pathogens in aquaculture are time consuming and are carried out in laboratories that are sometimes far from farm sites,” explains Dr Maloney.

By developing technology for use directly at the farm site we can reduce sample to answer times and ensure more timely and appropriate disease management practices can be implemented.”

The team will develop a test that works in a similar fashion to the COVID-19 tests that were used in homes and workplaces throughout the pandemic but with some modifications.

Securing crops and soil health with sustainable fungicides

ATU Sligo’s Dr Shane O’Reilly and DCU’s Ruairí Brannigan’s project, named LeafLock, will develop bio-based polymeric ‘stickers’ from unwanted biological by-products like woody biomass.

Fungal diseases are a persistent threat for global food supply, yet the production of fungicides relies on the petrochemical industry which has its own problems in terms of climate and carbon emissions.

Degradation products from current fungicide formulations may also be harmful and threaten soil health.

These polymeric stickers aim to improve effectiveness of fungicides and reduce the environmental burden.

Announcing the finalists, Higher Education Minister Simon Harris said: “The researchers are committing to solving long-term problems, but they need to develop their ideas quickly and validate their solutions to keep unlocking funding each year.”

“This kind of solutions-driven research will help us to tackle the big societal changes we face as we become a green and digital country.”

Man dies following incident at Loughrea cattle mart

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Briain Kelly

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September 25, 2023

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Galway Daily news missing girl found safe

A man has died following an incident at a cattle mart in Galway over the weekend.

Gardaí in Loughrea are investigating the death of a man following an incident at the mart in Loughrea on Saturday, September 23.

A man in his late 60s was injured following an incident while the mart was in progress at approximately 4:25pm.

He was taken by Ambulance to University Hospital Galway where he was later pronounced deceased.

The HSA and Coroner have been notified An Garda Síochána told Galway Daily.

Competitor dies in serious crash during Clare motor rally

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Michael Malone

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September 24, 2023

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A rally competitor has died following a two vehicle collision on Sunday afternoon at Glencolumbkille, Carran during the Clare Rally.

A male passenger (30s) was fatally injured and pronounced deceased at scene, and the rally was cancelled at around 1.30pm.

His body was removed from the scene to University Hospital Limerick where a post-mortem will take place in due course.

The male driver of the second vehicle was taken to University Hospital Limerick for treatment for injuries which are believed to be non-life-threatening.

The second driver and passenger, both males, were uninjured.

The road is currently closed and scene of the collision is preserved for examination by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators. Traffic diversions are in place.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Ennis Garda Station on 065 684 8100, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

Two incomplete paths in Ballinasloe are ‘critical concern’ for pedestrian safety

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Michael Malone

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September 24, 2023

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galway daily news cllr evelyn parsons at a path in ballinasloe

A meeting between Galway County Council Active Travel Team and the National Transport Authority is scheduled to discuss projects which have been paused pending an NTA review.

The issue was raised at the Ballinasloe Municipal District Meeting by Cllr Evelyn Parsons who stated that active travel projects like Beechlawn and Poolboy paths and others needed to be progressed urgently.

She said that the paths were left incomplete and are a critical concern regarding ongoing pedestrian safety which is a top priority.

“I’m urging that they are expedited to completion without further delay,” said Cllr Parsons, who added that there had already been a huge input of council resources from competent staff on projects including Beechlawn and Poolboy among others.

“Despite having worked hard to put in place successful funding, tenders, contracts along with cooperation of landowners and residents, further phases of the project have now inexplicably stalled.

“We learn a year into the project that the NTA are now reviewing previously submitted successful active travel applications.”

Cllr Parsons said that it is moving the goalposts late into the game and looks like work duplication where she would question if it’s the most appropriate use of taxpayers money in a time of tight resources.

“There’s no doubt paths submitted in Beechlawn, Poolboy and elsewhere are needed to provide safe routes to school and to connect services, residential and commercial centres.

“Active travel projects are placed on a slow expensive path to nowhere unless there is joined up thinking at National level leading to joined up paths locally – there is need in central government to quickly step up support for the work of local authorities.”

Orange warning for intense rainfall in Galway

By

Michael Malone

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September 24, 2023

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Galway Daily weather Weather warning for heavy rain and possible flooding now in effect

Met Éireann has issued a status orange warning for Galway and Mayo ahead of intense rainfall on Sunday afternoon.

The heavy downpours could result in flooding, poor visibility and dangerous travelling conditions.

The warning, issued on Sunday morning by Met Éireann, will come into effect at 1pm, lasting just four hours.

Only Galway and Mayo are affected by Sunday’s orange weather warning.

Galway County Council shortlisted for Excellence in Local Government Award

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Briain Kelly

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September 23, 2023

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Galway Daily news Galway County Council shortlisted for Excellence in Local Government Award

Galway County Council has been shortlisted for an Excellence in Local Government Award by Chambers Ireland.

The awards, now in their 20th year, feature a total of 94 Local Authority projects shortlisted over 15 categories.

Galway County Council has been shortlisted in the ‘Heritage and Built Environment’ category for its project ‘Digitising Galway’s Graveyard Heritage’.

This years awards include a new addition, ‘Urban Revival’, which showcases Local Authorities’ innovative efforts to take action in transforming their urban areas.

The Awards are held annually in conjunction with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien said, “I am delighted that my Department continues to support the Excellence in Local Government Awards again this year.”

“It is vital that all the good work done by local authorities is showcased to the wider community displaying how their essential role contributes on a daily basis positively to the lives of the people who live in the community”.

Concluding, Minister O’Brien wished all the local authorities the best of luck in the next stage of the awards and commended all local authorities that had got to this stage.

Commenting on the announcement of the shortlist, Ian Talbot, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland said, “We’re pleased to reveal the Excellence in Local Government Awards shortlist today, which features projects that represent the essence of the hard work and ambitious planning that takes place at local level all around the country.”

“The Awards showcase the inventiveness and innovation that Local Authorities are delivering, which so often goes unnoticed.”

!I would like to congratulate each of the shortlisted Local Authorities and acknowledge the excellent work being undertaken at Local Government level nationwide.”

The Excellence in Local Government Award winners will be announced at the 20th annual ceremony on November 23 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Northwood, Santry.

Awards will be presented for excellence in 15 different categories and one Local Authority will be awarded the overall award and named Local Authority of the Year 2023.

Ros na Rún – The walls are closing in on Diana

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Briain Kelly

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September 23, 2023

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Ros na Rún - The walls are closing in on Diana

The walls are closing in on Diana, Berni insists she’s fine after Briain’s murder, and Tadhg reveals an earth-shattering secret in Ros na Rún.

Diana pleads with O’Shea to reveal why the forensic investigation of Berni’s apartment is still ongoing.

Her anxiety grows as she learns that herself and Réailtín must give another statement to the Gardaí. Will the events match up?

Berni insists that she is doing okay after Briain’s murder but leaves everyone around her walking on eggshells. But how long will she be able to keep up the act?

Tadhg reveals a huge secret on the anniversary of Áine’s mother’s death. The Gardaí have confirmed his story. But is he telling the truth?

Sorcha informs Cóilí Jackie of a document that could ruin everything for Malachaí. Cóilí Jackie wants to tell Sadie. Will the truth be revealed?

Another Derrane lands in Ros na Rún with news. Sonny and Crystal’s wedding anniversary celebrations are cut short, with Sonny forced to make a choice.

Catch up on all the latest catastrophes in Ros na Rún in a double feature omnibus on TG4 this Sunday.

Weather warning issued as rainy weekend forecast for Galway

By

Briain Kelly

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September 23, 2023

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galway daily weather weather warning for heavy rain in effect

Galway can expect to see heavy rain on Sunday, with a status yellow weather warning issued by Met Eireann.

The rain warning for Galway, Mayo, Sligo, and Donegal will be in effect from 11am to 8pm on Sunday.

During this time there will be spells of heavy rain accompanied by strong and gusty winds.

The worst accumulations of rain are forecast for hills and mountainous areas Met Eireann has said.

This may cause localised flooding, poor visibility, and impact on travelling conditions.

A separate weather warning for heavy rain on Sunday has been issued for Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Wicklow, Cork, and Waterford.

Met Eireann has also issued a wind warning for Waterford, Wexford, and Wicklow tomorrow afternoon.

Today, after a dry morning, rain is expected to develop across the county over the course of the afternoon, with showers turning heavy at times.

Fresh and gusty south to southwest winds throughout the day, with highest temperatures of 14 to 16 degrees.

Music for Galway celebrates Rachmaninov’s 150th anniversary

By

Briain Kelly

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September 23, 2023

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Music for Galway celebrates Rachmaninov's 150th anniversary

Music for Galway’s 42nd International Concert Season opens with a celebration of legendary Russian born Romantic composer/pianist Sergei Rachmaninov.

UK pianist Lucy Parham brings with her actor Tim McInnerny (of Blackadder and Notting Hill fame) to present Elégie: Rachmaninov – A Heart in Exile on Tuesday 26th September at the Hardiman Ballroom at 7.30pm.

“I am a ghost forever wandering the world” These are the words of Rachmaninov who spent the second part of his life in self-imposed political exile – mainly in America – having been forced from his homeland in 1918 by consequences of the Russian Revolution.

At the age of 44, he left Moscow for Sweden on an open sleigh, accompanied by his wife and two daughters and carrying nothing but a suitcase.

He was never to return – but he left his heart forever in Russia. Lucy Parham and Tim McInnerny will tell the extraordinary story of his life through both music and words.

Lucy Parham first came to public attention as the Piano Winner of the 1984 BBC Young Musician of the Year.

Since her Royal Festival Hall concerto debut at the age of 16, she has played throughout the UK as concerto soloist with most of the major British orchestras and is a frequent recitalist at the Wigmore Hall.

She has also toured the USA with the BBC Concert Orchestra on their 50th anniversary, as well as Mexico and Turkey with Royal Philharmonic Orchestra with whom she has now given over 60 performances.

Abroad, she has toured with the Russian State Symphony, Sofia Philharmonic, Bergen Philharmonic, Polish National Radio SO and L’Orchestre National de Lille.

Acknowledged as one of Britain’s finest pianists, Lucy Parham applies her sensitivity and imagination not only to concertos and recitals, but also to portraits in words and music (narrated by acclaimed actors, in this case Tim McInnerny) of such composers as Schumann, Chopin, Liszt, Rachmaninov, Clara Schumann and Debussy.

Tim’s extensive theatre work includes starring roles at the National Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Company and in London’s West End.

He played Iago in Othello at Shakespeare’s Globe and Frank ‘N’ Furter in The Rocky Horror Show at The Piccadilly Theatre. He starred in What The Butler Saw at the Vaudeville Theatre and in Scenes From An Execution at The National Theatre.

As part of Music for Galway’s Encore Series, the concert will be repeated in association with Athenry Music School and Athenry Heritage Centre and supported by the Galway County Council Arts Office the following night, 27th September, at the Raheen Woods Hotel in Athenry at 8.00pm.

Tim starred in the award-winning drama The Serpent for The BBC. To great acclaim he played Simon Gould in the Amazon Prime series Ten Percent. He has been filming the series One Day for Netflix and Mrs Davis for Warner Bros TV.

Ticket prices are Standard €20; Concession €18; Social Inclusion €6; MfG Friends €16 and can be booked from www.musicforgalway.ie or 091 705962. Concession rate applies to people aged over 66 and social inclusion tickets are available to children, students (full time), people in receipt of disability and back to work allowance as well as to people seeking refuge and refugees.

Rugbeer – Try ‘Shoulder to Shoulder’ at the Connacht Hospitality Group

By

Briain Kelly

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September 23, 2023

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Rugbeer – Try ‘Shoulder to Shoulder’ at the Connacht Hospitality Group

With the Rugby World Cup in full swing, everyone in the country is getting right behind Andy Farrell’s charges as they look to make their way to the final on October 28.

There are plenty of reasons for rugby fans to rejoice right now, and the ‘Shoulder to Shoulder’ limited-edition Galway Hooker draught beer available at the Connacht Hospitality Group’s An Púcán, 1520, and The Connacht Hotel is another fantastic reason.

An Púcán, 1520, and The Connacht Hotel have really caught World Cup fever with their ‘Shoulder to Shoulder’ beer which will be available on draught throughout the tournament.

The beer is a well-balanced IPA with a floral aroma, stone fruit and citrus flavours, and a smooth mouthfeel that is sure to go down easy – especially when you’re polishing off a gourmet burger made by any of the Group’s culinary experts.

The ‘Shoulder to Shoulder’ IPA has a more robust and natural flavour thanks to its unfiltered brew, an ideal offering for the milestone rugby tournament that’s sure to add to the World Cup experience.

If you’re looking for a great place to watch all the World Cup action, 1520 and The Connacht Hotel have big screens for you to see every try and conversion.

On Forster Street, An Púcán has one of the largest TV screens in the country – located in their impressive Beer Garden – making it one of the most immersive places to watch all the drama unfold.

Plus, if you grab yourself a ‘Shoulder to Shoulder’ draught beer, you might just get one of their exclusive RWC X Galway Hooker t-shirts on Irish Rugby game days.

No matter which venue you choose to follow Ireland’s journey from, you’re sure to have a fantastic time enjoying a pint or two of ‘Shoulder to Shoulder’ as Ireland look to escape Pool B and make it to Stade de France on October 28.

So, why not answer Ireland’s call and swing by An Púcán, 1520, or The Connacht Hotel to try the limited-edition Shoulder to Shoulder draught beer?

Charlie Bird’s ‘Climb with Charlie’ wins international Award

By

Briain Kelly

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September 23, 2023

0

RTÉ’s legendary broadcaster Charlie Bird’ fundraising event ‘Climb With Charlie’ has won a major international award.

The Climb With Charlie fundraiser took home an award at the Global Alliance’s World Public Relations and Communication Awards this week.

The entry was submitted by his friend and PR professional Paul Allen, of firm Paul Allen and Associates. The firm was the lead organiser and communications team behind the initiative.

It was the only Irish entry to be shortlisted in the annual awards, which featured major firms and agencies from over 100 countries including the UK, USA, and Europe.

Commenting on the success of the “Climb with Charlie” campaign previously, Charlie Bird said: “The support of so many wonderful people and organisations throughout the campaign was a great example of people extending the hand of friendship.

I would like to thank them from the bottom of my heart. It is an amazing gesture of support for me and my family.”

Charlie Bird set up the “Climb with Charlie” campaign following his own diagnosis with Motor Neurone Disease to help and show support for everyone who has to climb their own physical and mental mountains in their daily lives.

The climb of Croagh Patrick raised more than €3.6 million for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association and suicide prevention charity Pieta.

Commenting on the win, Paul Allen said: “We are over the moon for Charlie Bird. What started as a very simple idea when out walking in Dun Laoghaire with our two dogs has been catapulted into receiving this global award and honour.”

“We are all extremely humbled by this great occasion. What started as a simple idea raised over €3.6 million for the two great charities.”

He added, “Having worked in the RTÉ newsroom alongside Charlie and having been in business for over 30 years, we decided to give something back, volunteer our time, put our shoulder to the wheel and donate eight months of professional services to manage “Climb with Charlie”.

“From developing the campaign to working with sponsors such as Dunnes Stores and creating awareness for the overall project, Charlie’s passion ignited a nation with “Climb with Charlie.“

Galway’s Aoife Raftery set to compete in Clare Rally this weekend

By

Michael Malone

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September 22, 2023

0

galway daily news craughwell rally driver aoife rafferty ahead of clare rally — Aoife Raftery and co-driver Geraldoine McBride on the Lais Rally in June

Galway’s Aoife Raftery will compete in her first Irish National Rally Championship event of the year this weekend at the Clare Rally in Ennis on Sunday.

The Craughwell native has spent most of 2023 contesting FIA European Rally Championship events in a PCRS Rallysport-run Peugeot 208 Rally4.

Her European adventures took her to Poland, Italy, Latvia, Sweden, the Czech Republic and Wales.

During a lull in European activities, Rafferty, who is a Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy member, has decided to return home and contest the Ennis-based rally which is a relatively local event for her.

Although she has contested several tarmac rallies in Ireland this year including the Down Rally in July and the Laois Heartlands Rally in June this is her first Irish National Rally since the Galway Summer Rally in August last year.

Raftery will drive a Ford Fiesta R2, run by Galway-based Broderick Motorsport, in the highly competitive Class 2 category in Ennis on Sunday.

The last time she drove the Fiesta was at Rali Bae Ceredigion in Wales earlier this month where she finished third amongst the British Junior Rally Championship contenders.

The Clare Motor Club organised event is the penultimate round of the Triton Showers Motorsport Ireland National Rally Championship and the Class 2 section of the event has attracted entries from some of Ireland’s top career aspirational drivers.

“I am really looking forward to competing at home after a hectic summer abroad. Class 2 is very strong and it will be great to see how we measure up against the regulars in the National Championship,” said Aoife Raftery.

Opposition includes the leader of the Class 2 category in the Triton Showers National Rally Championship, Ryan McHugh who was a winner in Kerry and on the Raven’s Rock rallies earlier this year, and he heads the Clare Rally entry list.

Second-placed driver championship driver Cian Caldwell, the Sligo Rally winner, has also entered Clare, as has Keelan Grogan who has won three of the five rallies he has contested this year including last time out in the ALMC Rally in County Meath in August.

Rally Academy driver Dylan Eves is also on the Clare entry list while fellow Donegal man Matthew Boyle, currently in fourth place in the championship, is also entered.

Casey Jay Coleman and Rally Academy co-driver Lorcan Moore hope to give their Peugeot 208 Rally4 its tarmac debut in Banner County.

Kerry driver Mossie Costello will make his Class 2 tarmac debut having already contested a few gravel rallies in his newly acquired Fiesta.

Galway students to protest accommodation crisis next week

By

Michael Malone

-

September 22, 2023

0

galway daily news accommodation protest by galway students — Faye Ní Dhomhnaill, Izzy Tiernan, Raimey O’Boyle and Dean Kenny (University of Galway Students’ Union)

University of Galway Students’ Union will hold an accommodation protest and sleep out at Eyre Square on Wednesday, 27 September.

The protest will meet at the Quadrangle at University of Galway campus at 4.30pm and later make its way to Eyre Square where there will be speeches before the students set up camp for the night.

The Union is calling on the Government and the University to come up with urgent solutions for the huge numbers of Galway students who are currently homeless.

The sleep out protest aims to draw attention to the plight of the many students who can’t find housing.

Students’ Union President Dean Kenny said: “Our students are among the worst affected by the current housing crisis, we have students commuting for up to 7 hours a day, paying extortionate rent, sleeping on friends couches or living in hostels.

“This is completely unacceptable, and it is down to lack of Government action. Students cannot possibly study, live and work under these conditions. We are calling for more affordable student accommodation, digs legislation, and for our public representatives to finally start taking this issue seriously.”

Students’ Union Vice President/Welfare and Equality Officer Izzy Tiernan said that they are getting hundreds of emails and phone calls every day from students and their families who are desperately seeking housing.

“It’s heartbreaking to hear the circumstances that students are finding themselves in. There’s also been an increase in accommodation fraud which is adding to this nightmare situation,” said Izzy.

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