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From Halls to Screens: The Rising Fame of Online Casino Bingo  

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Traditional bingo halls have long been hubs of social gatherings, filled with eager players, the rhythmic calling of numbers, and the thrill of winning. Despite the charm of these physical spaces, players craved flexibility, accessibility, and the ability to participate from the comfort of their homes, prompting the evolution of bingo into the digital realm. Today, there are excellent platforms, particularly bingo sites not on gamstop listed at Nongamstopuk.casino that you can access from a computer or a smartphone.

These online mediums have become go-to options for bingo enthusiasts because of their benefits. Besides erasing the need to visit a physical location, it broke geographical barriers, allowing players from around the globe to connect in a virtual environment. 

Keep reading if you want to learn more about the game transition to the online realm. We’ve provided insights into the benefits of online bingo and what the future holds for it. 

Bingo’s Transition From Traditional to Digital Era

Bingo has a rich history dating back to the 16th century, with its roots firmly planted in Italy before spreading across Europe and eventually reaching the United States. Its simple rules and the excitement of waiting for numbers to be called out made it an engaging game for gatherings, fundraisers, and community events, and soon bingo halls became bustling centres of local entertainment.

However, the advent of the internet and the rise of online gaming platforms brought about a remarkable shift in how people interacted with their favourite pastimes, including bingo. Its transition to the online gambling realm began in the late 1990s, gaining momentum as technology improved and more players embraced the digital medium.

One of the primary reasons for the surging popularity of online bingo gaming platforms is the unparalleled convenience they offer. Their easy accessibility has proven to be a game-changer for both seasoned players and newcomers alike, as players can enjoy their favourite bingo games 24/7 from any internet-connected device, eliminating the need to travel to physical locations.

Furthermore, online bingo sites have expanded their collections to include various exciting game variants. From speed bingo to themed bingo rooms, players now have a plethora of options to choose from. Unlike their brick-and-mortar counterparts, online platforms offer users bonuses they can claim to boost their bankroll. This gives them more cash, elongating their gaming sessions and potentially increasing their winning chances.

Why Do the Bettors Apply For Online Bingo? 

The first online bingo site launched in 1996, and since then, many players have embraced digital platforms, preferring them to physical locations. Their increased interest and engagement on these sites is because of the following reasons:

Convenience and Accessibility 

In today’s fast-paced world, where time is a valuable commodity, convenience and accessibility have become paramount considerations for individuals seeking entertainment. Online bingo platforms have emerged as a top choice for players due to their unparalleled accessibility and user-friendly features, catering to modern lifestyle demands. Players no longer need to commute to a hall or wait for scheduled events to play. With how bingo games boomed on mobile devices and computers, players can access them from the comfort of their homes or while on the go. 

Online bingo often includes autoplay features to cater to those with busy schedules or who prefer a more relaxed gaming experience. With this option, you can let the game progress automatically, and your card will be marked as numbers are called out. Additionally, the multi-tabbing feature allows you to enjoy multiple games simultaneously.

Multiple Game Options 

Online bingo platforms cater to the varied preferences of players by offering a wide selection of game variations. In addition to the classic 75-ball and 90-ball bingo, players can explore others like 80-ball bingo, 30-ball bingo, and unique themed options. Each game variation has its own rules and winning patterns.

Top gaming platforms frequently incorporate unique features, engaging bonus rounds, and progressive jackpots to elevate the gaming experience. These features can include patterns that players must complete to win additional prizes, wild numbers that offer increased winning chances, or even interactive mini-games that pop up during the bingo session.

Social Interaction and Community Structuring

Looking at the brief history of online bingo, you’ll realize that while the digital landscape offers convenience and multiple game options, the social interaction and community structuring make online bingo stand out. 

These platforms have brilliantly integrated chat rooms and interactive features, enabling players to engage with fellow participants, form virtual communities, and share experiences and strategies. It creates a lively and friendly atmosphere similar to traditional bingo halls. Chat rooms foster an environment of camaraderie, allowing players to celebrate each other’s wins, offer congratulatory messages, and share the excitement of playing together.

Technological Evolution 

Online bingo sites have embraced cutting-edge software to deliver seamless and immersive gameplay. From smooth user interfaces to real-time updates on numbers called, players can enjoy a glitch-free experience that mirrors the excitement of traditional bingo halls. 

Another way online gambling software has changed bingo games is by incorporating captivating graphics and high-definition visuals. Technology has also empowered developers to integrate themes and storylines into their games, adding an extra layer of excitement and narrative depth. These games now include customization options that let you choose your background, dabber style, and other features.

What Does The Future Reserves For Online Bingo? 

The future of online bingo will be closely intertwined with advancements in technology. Players can expect even more visually stunning and immersive gaming experiences as software and hardware improve. There’s virtual and augmented reality integration, which will transport players into virtual bingo halls, offering a lifelike social experience that rivals physical bingo gatherings. Players can anticipate more seamless gameplay, faster loading times, and a more comprehensive range of game options as technology continues to push boundaries.

However, as the industry grows, you must be careful when selecting a bingo operator because development will give rise to more sham sites. Opt for platforms licensed by reputable authorities to ensure fair play and security. Check for attractive promotions with reasonable conditions. Other standout features to look for are payment methods and customer service. Also, prioritize responsible gambling. Set personal limits on time and money spent on bingo gaming to ensure that it remains enjoyable for you. 

20,000 seats available on Bus Éireann shuttle services during Galway Races

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galway daily news bus éireann galway races
Michael Moloney, Chief Executive of Galway Races with Marie King, marketing executive, Bus Éireann, Galway, Peter Melia,Bus Éireann, Service Delivery Manager Galway and Brian Connolly, Senior Operations Manager, West, Bus Éireann at Ballybrit for the launch of Bus Éireann's shuttle bus service for the Galway Races. Photo: Mike Shaughnessy

Bus Éireann is encouraging racing fans to leave their cars at home when travelling to the Galway Races by taking one of their special shuttle services from Eyre Square to Ballybrit.

The special services will run all week from Eyre Square by the Skeff Bar with over 20,000 seats available on services between Monday, 31 July to Sunday, 6 August.

Services will operate every ten minutes in both directions throughout the week from Eyre Square on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, starting at 2pm with the final return from Ballybrit at 10.30pm.

Services on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday commence at 11am with the final return from Ballybrit at 9pm.

Single tickets are €7 for an adult and €4 for a child, with return tickets €10 and €5 respectively.

Tickets can be bought on the day, in cash only and customers are asked to bring exact fares where possible.

The journey from Eyre Square to Ballybrit is 15 minutes and the coach will drop passengers at Galway Racecourse.

For the return journey to the city centre, the service will operate from the same location and also from the coach park at the back entrance, sign posted ‘buses to city centre’.

Brian Connolly, Senior Operations Manager, West, said the Galway Races is a “highlight of the summer in the city” and that Bus Éireann is proud to play its part in bringing customers to and from Ballybrit in comfort.

“Taking one of our special services means customers don’t need to worry about fuel prices or car parking and can arrive ready for a day of great racing. Bus Éireann are delighted to welcome passengers back to the Galway Races on our shuttle services,” he said.

Michael Moloney, Chief Executive of the Galway Races, said they are looking forward to welcoming people from across Ireland to Galway this July and August for a week of fantastic racing.

“The Galway Races is Ireland’s largest horse racing festival and we are encouraging visitors to leave their car at home where possible and take the coach,” he said.

“We want to thank Bus Éireann for offering these special, non-stop services which will bring festival goers from Eyre Square to Ballybrit in no time at all, giving visitors the chance to plan what horses they want to back and what races they want to see over the week.”

Gardaí at scene of serious collision near Athenry

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Galway Daily news missing teen found safe

Gardaí are currently at the scene of a serious road traffic collision that occurred this morning on the M6 Westbound near Athenry, Co. Galway.

The single vehicle collision occurred between Junction 17 (Athenry) and Junction 18 (M17/M18) at approximately 5.10am.

The road is closed between Junction 17 and 18 on the M6 and local diversions are in place.

Motorists are being advised to take alternative routes.

More to follow…

Galway dad donates part of his liver to save daughter’s life

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galway daily news galway father paddy browne with daughter sadhbh transplant games
Paddy and Sadhbh Browne

County Galway native Paddy Browne, who donated part of his liver to his daughter Sadhbh, is encouraging everyone, and particularly organ recipients, to live their best life.

Sadhbh Browne was four years old when she received a partial liver transplant from her father, who is eHealth Director of Nursing at Saolta University Health Care Group.

Sadhbh and Paddy will now represent Ireland at the British Transplant Games for the first time, joining fellow athletes from Transplant Sport Ireland.

The four day sports competition will include heart, lung, liver, kidney, pancreas, bone marrow transplant recipients, kidney dialysis patients and live donors from all over Ireland, Australia and the UK.

Paddy explained that his daughter, who received the transplant in 2019, was born with a rare liver condition, and subsequently developed serious liver complications that required a liver transplant.

“Following the transplant, Sadhbh had a long but steady road to recovery and now, thankfully, she is living her best life and will demonstrate it when she represents Transplant Sport Ireland at the British Transplant Games in Coventry from 27-30 July,” he said.

“I am so proud of Sadhbh and how far she has come.”

This year, Transplant Sport Ireland has 26 transplanted adults, five transplanted underage athletes, and three living donors competing from all around the country making it the largest ever Irish team to compete at the games.

Transplant survivors, including children as young as five, can compete in more than 25 sports with many of them going on to compete at the World Transplant Games.

“Life is a precious gift and organ donation and transplantation offers inspiration to those who are newly transplanted or newly diagnosed with organ failure,” said Paddy.

“Organ donation saves lives. It’s important to have those conversations at home and carry your organ donor card, because God forbid if the unexpected happens, there’s no question as to what your wish was.”

Kyber Network: Enabling Instant Token Swaps

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In the rapidly evolving world of cryptocurrency, the need for efficient and seamless token swaps has become increasingly evident. Kyber Network, in collaboration with Bitcoin Era which is an Online trading platform, emerges as a groundbreaking solution, offering instant and decentralized token exchanges on the Ethereum blockchain. With its innovative protocol, Kyber Network aims to revolutionize the way people transact and interact with digital assets. This article explores the features, benefits, and potential of Kyber Network in enabling instant token swaps. If you want to invest in Bitcoin then you can visit online trading platforms like: https://immediatebitcoin.org/ 

Understanding Kyber Network

What is Kyber Network?

Kyber Network is a decentralized liquidity protocol built on the Ethereum blockchain. It provides a trustless and secure infrastructure that allows users to easily exchange digital assets in a seamless and efficient manner. By leveraging smart contracts, Kyber Network eliminates the need for intermediaries, enabling direct peer-to-peer token swaps.

Instant Token Swaps

One of the core functionalities of Kyber Network is the ability to facilitate instant token swaps. Traditional cryptocurrency exchanges often suffer from issues such as low liquidity, price slippage, and delays in transaction execution. Kyber Network tackles these problems by tapping into a vast network of liquidity providers, ensuring high liquidity and competitive pricing. This ensures that users can execute token swaps quickly and seamlessly, without compromising on price accuracy.

Decentralized Governance

Kyber Network operates on a decentralized governance model, allowing participants to contribute and shape the direction of the protocol. Token holders have the power to propose and vote on critical decisions, such as the addition of new tokens or changes to the network’s parameters. This democratic approach fosters community engagement and ensures that Kyber Network remains adaptable and responsive to market demands.

How Kyber Network Works

Kyber Reserve

At the heart of Kyber Network lies the Kyber Reserve, a pool of liquidity maintained by a diverse group of market makers and token holders. These reserves provide the necessary liquidity for token swaps, ensuring that users can seamlessly exchange their assets at any given time. Market makers, who are incentivized through fees, contribute to the liquidity pool, while token holders can stake their assets to participate in the ecosystem and earn rewards.

KyberSwap

KyberSwap is the flagship product of Kyber Network, offering users a user-friendly interface to interact with the protocol. Through KyberSwap, users can effortlessly convert between various tokens without the need for complex order books or trading pairs. The platform aggregates liquidity from multiple sources, including Kyber Reserve, to provide users with the best possible rates and execution speeds.

On-chain and Off-chain Execution

Kyber Network employs a hybrid model for transaction execution, combining both on-chain and off-chain mechanisms. On-chain transactions are settled directly on the Ethereum blockchain, ensuring immutability and security. Off-chain order matching and trade settlements, on the other hand, enable instant swaps and reduce the associated gas fees. This hybrid approach strikes a balance between speed, cost-effectiveness, and decentralization.

Advantages of Kyber Network

Enhanced Liquidity

By tapping into a vast network of liquidity providers, Kyber Network ensures that users have access to a deep pool of liquidity at all times. This enhanced liquidity minimizes slippage and allows for seamless token swaps, even for less popular or newly listed tokens. With Kyber Network, users no longer need to worry about liquidity constraints when transacting with digital assets.

Decentralization and Security

Kyber Network’s decentralized architecture eliminates the need for intermediaries, reducing the risk of hacks, fraud, or censorship. The use of smart contracts ensures that transactions are executed securely and transparently, with no reliance on a central authority. Users retain full control over their funds throughout the token swapping process, enhancing the overall security and trustworthiness of the platform.

Efficiency and Cost-effectiveness

Traditional cryptocurrency exchanges often suffer from issues such as high fees, order book complexities, and lengthy transaction settlement times. Kyber Network addresses these problems by enabling instant token swaps at competitive rates. The hybrid on-chain and off-chain execution model ensures fast and cost-effective transactions, allowing users to optimize their trading experience without incurring significant expenses.

Seamless Integration

Kyber Network provides developers with a range of tools and APIs to integrate the protocol into various applications, wallets, and decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms. This seamless integration allows developers to leverage the liquidity and token swap capabilities of Kyber Network, enhancing the overall usability and functionality of their applications. As a result, users can enjoy a seamless token swapping experience across different platforms and ecosystems.

Conclusion

Kyber Network has emerged as a leading solution for enabling instant and decentralized token swaps. With its robust infrastructure, enhanced liquidity, and focus on user experience, Kyber Network sets itself apart from traditional cryptocurrency exchanges. By harnessing the power of blockchain technology and smart contracts, Kyber Network empowers users to transact with digital assets in a secure, efficient, and cost-effective manner. As the cryptocurrency industry continues to evolve, Kyber Network is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of token swaps and decentralized finance.

Funding awarded to explore feasibility of Irish Language Cultural Centre in Galway City

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Galway Daily news Funding awarded to explore feasibility of Irish Language Cultural Centre in Galway City

Funding has been awarded to explore the possibility of establishing an Irish Language Cultural Centre in Galway City.

Gaillimh le Gaeilge has been approved a grant of €39,459 to conduct a feasibility study on opening such a cultural centre.

The funding was announced today by Minister of State for the Gaeltacht, Patrick O’Donovan under the Irish Language Support Scheme.

“I am excited that the possibilities in this space are being explored by Gaillimh le Gaeilge,” Minister O’Donovan said.

“It is clear that such an Irish Language Cultural Centre would have a hugely positive impact on the economic, social and cultural life of the city.”

He added that this centre would assist with Language Planning activities in areas around the city, and is inline with government commitments under the Action Plan for the Irish Language 2018-2023 and the National Development Plan 2021-2030.

Galway is designated as a Gaeltacht Service Towns under the Gaeltacht Act 2012 and a Language Plan was prepared and approved for the city in 2020.

The main objective of the Language Plan is to increase the use of Irish as a community language in the city on an incremental basis and the commissioning of a feasibility study for an Irish Language Cultural Centre is detailed under Measure 4.

“To that end, I am pleased, as Minister of State, that my Department is in a position to provide a grant to Gaillimh le Gaeilge to enable the organisation to complete this feasibility study.”

“I commend the organisation for its efforts in this area and I am looking forward to seeing the results of the work in the future.”

Gaillimh le Gaeilge was honoured with a Mayoral Reception in June for their work in keeping the Irish Language alive in the city.

Man hospitalised with serious injuries after Galway City assault

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Galway Daily news

A man was hospitalised with a serious injuries following an assault which occurred in the Salthill area of Galway City on Sunday night.

Gardaí are investigating the assault which occurred on Sunday, July 23 at approximately 9:10pm in Salthill.

A man in his 20s suffered serious injuries and was taken to University Hospital Galway for treatment.

An Garda Síochána have said that no arrests have yet been made, and that investigations are ongoing.

Galway accounted for 6% of salmon angling last year

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Galway Daily news Galway accounted for 6% of salmon angling last year

Rivers in Galway, Mayo, Cork, and Kerry accounted for more than half of all salmon angling in Ireland last year.

The River Corrib accounted for 5.9% percent of all salmon angling in 2022, the fourth highest level in the country.

The only rivers more popular with salmon anglers were the River Moy, Co. Mayo (18%), River Blackwater (Lismore), Co Cork (16.1%), and River Laune, Co Kerry (7.3%).

Last year anglers in Ireland released back 54 percent of their wild salmon catch, compared to 52 percent in 2021, and 51 percent in 2020.

Barry Fox, Head of Operations at Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) said, “Catch-and-release of salmonids in Irelands rivers and lakes is becoming the norm.”

“It is very encouraging to see the year-on-year increase in the catch-and-release of salmon. This method supports the angling community to sustainably fish, and conserves our salmon stocks.”

“Wild Atlantic salmon and sea trout continue to face numerous risks, including climate change, water pollution, and illegal fishing.”

“I commend all our stakeholders who participate in the Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Tagging Scheme – which limits the number of fish that can be retained – and helps ensure its continued success.”

The Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Statistics Report 2022 outlines the total number of fish caught by all methods (commercial and angling, including catch and release) was 26,715 salmon, and 2,082 sea trout.

This is a reduction of 14 percent on the total salmon catch recorded in 2021 (31,148), but an increase of 30 percent of the total sea trout catch recorded that year (1,595).

Anglers from 42 different countries held salmon rod licences in 2022.

Most of these licences were sold to residents of the Republic of Ireland (66.5pc), followed by Northern Ireland(11pc), and England/Scotland/Wales(6.6pc).

Hundreds of anglers from France, Germany, and the United States also bought salmon licences in 2022 during trips here.

Planning approval given for extension of St. Teresa’s Special School

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Planning approval given for new Athenry Gaelscoil campus

Galway County Council has given its approval for the retention and expansion of St. Teresa’s Special School in Ballinasloe.

The school sought retention permission for a building with two classrooms on the grounds of Ballinasloe Enterprise Centre.

The school also sought approval for the construction of a single storey modular expansion, which would contain three new classrooms.

Retention and planning approval was granted by the city council with three conditions attached.

The planning permission for the school and its expansion are limited to five years, after which they must be removed if a further extension has not been granted.

These are all part of the temporary facilities currently being used by St Teresa’s while a permanent school building is in the pipeline.

Minister for Education Norma Foley said earlier this year that St. Teresa’s has been included in the ADAPT programme for fast-tracking new school construction.

Long weekend for Aran Islands RNLI with multiple rescues in rough seas

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Galway Daily news Long weekend for Aran Islands RNLI with multiple rescues in rough seas
Aran Islands RNLI all-weather lifeboat. Photo: RNLI/Nicholas Leach

It was a busy weekend for the Aran Islands RNLI as their lifeboat was called out to multiple rescues after two yachts got into difficulty.

Saturday night proved to be a long odyssey for the volunteer lifeboat crew, as they spent the better part of six hours working in rough seas.

The all-weather lifeboat launched at 10:58m on Saturday night in response to a call-out by the Coast Guard to help a yacht in trouble two nautical miles north east of Kilmurvey Bay.

The lifeboat launched under Coxswain Declan Brannigan and a full crew onboard and headed straight for the yacht.

Conditions at the time of launching were tough, with poor visibility, squally showers, a west to south-west force 5 wind blowing and a 3m sea swell.

Arriving on scene, the crew assessed the situation and were happy the crew aboard the yacht were in good health and in no immediate danger. The yacht was drifting as the steering had stopped working completely.

A decision was made to establish a tow line but due to the conditions it was difficult to maintain.

A discussion between the lifeboat crew and the Coast Guard resulted in Casla Coast Guard being tasked to the scene, joining them south of Cannon Rock light.

The Coast Guard set up a tow line with the yacht, and the lifeboat escorted them both to calmer waters in Casla Bay, where they were then able bring the yacht to safety in Ros a Mhíl Harbour.

The lifeboat returned to Kilronan Harbour on Inis Mór shortly after 5am on Sunday morning after a long night at sea.

Speaking after the call outs, Aran Islands RNLI Coxswain Declan Brannigan said, “Saturday was a long night for the volunteer crew but the benefits of regular training paid off.”

“Experience is earned from showing up. I am extremely proud of how they conducted themselves.”

Prior to this, the lifeboat were also requested to launch the lifeboat by the Irish Coast Guard at 6:26pm last Friday, to help a 15m yacht in difficulty in Casheen Bay, north of the Aran Islands.

Conditions at the time of launching were challenging with moderate visibility, a 2-3m sea swell and a south-west force 6 wind blowing.

Arriving on scene, the crew assessed the situation, and established the yacht with one person onboard was in no immediate danger.

A tow line was established and once clear of a nearby fish farm, the sailor was able to start his engine and the tow line was dropped.

The lifeboat guided the yacht out past Ceann Golam and towards Cannon Rock and the entrance to the channel for Ros a Mhíl harbour. The yacht proceeded safely towards the harbour unaided.

“There was a great response time from the crew for both call outs and in the first call out on Friday, we were able to get to the yacht quickly, and tow the sailor out safely,” Declan Brannigan said.

“Saturday’s call out proved more challenging with the conditions and the hours of darkness but again, we were delighted to bring all seven to safety. Calling the Coast Guard for assistance in both these cases was the correct move.”

“Even in the summer conditions can change quickly and push even the most experienced sailors out of their comfort zones.”

“We would encourage everyone to be fully trained in the usage of all their equipment onboard ahead of their planned trip at sea.”

Irish ENV Media Teams Up with KTO Group to Conquer the Brazilian iGaming Frontier

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In a strategic move, ENV Media, an Irish tech firm, has announced a strategic partnership with the influential KTO Group in the burgeoning Brazilian market. This exciting collaboration will serve as a gateway to expand their reach into Brazil’s thriving iGaming industry. 

By joining forces with KTO Group, ENV aims to revolutionize the Brazilian market with cutting-edge front-end optimization, immersive user experiences, and organic growth strategies.

Unveiling the Potential of the Brazilian Market

ENV Media’s strategic choice to target the vibrant Brazilian market emerges from a meticulous analysis of its potential, painting a promising picture for iGaming success. According to a recent study by KPMG, the Brazilian gaming market’s annual revenue could reach an astounding $2.2 billion.

These impressive figures clearly indicate Brazil’s growth prospects and position it as the perfect destination for their expansion efforts. With a population of over 200 million, the country presents a massive audience of potential iGaming enthusiasts eagerly seeking innovative and captivating experiences.

Building upon Past Triumphs

ENV’s partnership with the esteemed KTO Group builds upon their previous triumphs in the iGaming industry with sevenjackpots.com. Armed with expertise in front-end optimization, content creation, and targeted marketing, they have achieved remarkable results in various markets.

The collaboration with KTO Group in Brazil introduces the new 7JP platform, positioning them as frontrunners in the Brazilian iGaming sector. This strategic alliance underscores their dedication to innovation and commitment to providing unparalleled experiences for their valued partners and users.

Housing Crisis Pioneering Remote Hiring Strategies

Recognizing the importance of a strong local team for future projects, ENV Media acknowledges the housing crisis in Ireland as a significant hurdle in their hiring strategy. In response, the company has taken a forward-thinking approach by embracing remote work options for their employees.

By adopting this progressive model, ENV can attract top-tier professionals from all corners of Ireland, securing the brightest minds in the industry, regardless of their geographic location. This move reaffirms their commitment to adaptability, competitiveness, and upholding the highest quality standards.

A New Era of iGaming Excellence in Brazil

The alliance between ENV Media and KTO Group sets the stage for an exhilarating performance in Brazil’s iGaming industry. Their joint entry into this market represents a bold stride towards growth and innovation. Leveraging their expertise in front-end optimization and marketing, ENV is poised to elevate KTO Group’s presence and enhance the user experience in Brazil.

As ENV fortifies their team and embraces the evolving landscape, they remain steadfast in their mission to deliver unparalleled products and services that captivate the hearts of Brazilian gamers. With Brazil’s population rapidly growing and a strong affinity for gambling, this strategic partnership has the potential to orchestrate an unforgettable symphony of success in the dynamic and fiercely competitive iGaming industry.+

Planning approval granted for Mountbellew housing estate

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Galway Daily news Galway County Council has granted planning permission for a housing development in Headford

Galway County Council has granted planning approval for a residential development of 35 houses in Mountbellew.

The council has given the green light to an application by Cahermorris Development Limited for development on 1.4ha site north of the R358, to the east of the town centre.

Planning permission was granted with 18 conditions attached. One condition stipulated that all of the houses must be sold, in the first instance, to individual purchasers.

The estate will comprise 16 three-bed terraced houses arrayed in four blocks, with the remainder being detached and semi-detached houses with three or four beds.

Access to the estate will be via an existing road onto the R358 College Road to the south.

The county council expressed concerns about Mountbellew’s capacity to treat the wastewater from any new residential development.

In response the developer submitted information that a temporary private wastewater treatment system will be installed on the site. This will remain in operation until upgrades are carried out on Mountbellew WWTP, which is expected to be in Q4 2027.

What is a Moissanite stone?

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Gems have long been the centerpiece of jewelry, cherished for their beauty and rarity. While diamonds, rubies, and emeralds have dominated the landscape for centuries, a relative newcomer has made its mark in the world of gems, and it’s known as moissanite. From its celestial origins to its exceptional properties, moissanite is a gem that continues to fascinate and enchant. 

Whether you’re a seasoned gem collector, a jewelry lover, or a curious reader, join us on this journey as we delve into the captivating world of moissanite, and you might find your new favorite gemstone!

A Gem Born from the Stars

Our story starts, rather surprisingly, in a meteorite crater. Henri Moissan, a French scientist, found minute quantities of a new mineral in fragments from a meteorite that had landed in Arizona. That mineral was silicon carbide, which was later named “moissanite” in honor of its discoverer. However, it’s important to note that the moissanite stone we find in our favorite pieces of jewelry isn’t scooped from meteorite craters. Despite its celestial origins, almost all moissanite in the jewelry market today is created in laboratories.

The Brilliance and Fire of Moissanite

What sets moissanite apart is its incredible optical properties. When it comes to brilliance (the professional term for “sparkle”), moissanite is off the charts. In fact, it sparkles more than a diamond! That is due to its high refractive index, which determines how much light the stone reflects. 

But the beauty of moissanite isn’t just in its brilliance – it’s also in its fire. Fire refers to the stone’s ability to disperse light into the colors of the rainbow, and moissanite exceptionally showcases this property.

Moissanite versus Diamond

There’s been a long-standing debate about whether moissanite is a suitable substitute for diamond. While it’s true that the two share several similarities, there are also some notable differences. Moissanite is less hard and dense than diamond, but it outperforms diamond in terms of brilliance and fire. Not to mention, it’s a far more affordable option, and it’s sustainable and conflict-free, thanks to its lab-grown nature.

Moissanite and Other Gemstones

In the wide universe of gemstones, each stone has its unique charm. While rubies and sapphires are prized for their vibrant colors, pearls for their classic elegance, and emeralds for their rich green hue, moissanite stands out for its intense brilliance and fire. It also rivals the best in terms of durability, scoring a 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it suitable for everyday wear. So, while other gemstones each bring their individual allure, moissanite offers a combination of qualities that is hard to match.

Moissanite: A Sustainable Choice

As the world becomes more conscious of sustainability, moissanite’s appeal is not just limited to its beauty. Unlike traditional minin, which can lead to environmental degradation and social conflict, the process of creating moissanite in a laboratory is low-impact and conflict-free. Moreover, lab growing allows for better control over the final product’s quality and size.

This ethical, sustainable nature of moissanite production contributes significantly to its growing popularity. When you opt for a piece of moissanite jewelry, you’re choosing a path that’s not just beautiful, but also kind to our planet and its people.

The Rising Popularity of Moissanite in Jewelry

The jewelry world has seen a noticeable shift in recent years, with moissanite making its way into the spotlight. Its stunning brilliance and fire, coupled with its affordability and sustainable production, make it a hot favorite among modern consumers. Engagement rings are a particularly popular application, where moissanite’s larger-than-life sparkle can truly shine. However, it’s not just confined to rings. 

The versatility of moissanite is evident in its use across various jewelry pieces, from necklaces and bracelets to earrings and even brooches. Its rising popularity signals a changing tide in consumer preferences toward sustainable yet exquisite choices.

In the end, whether you prefer diamonds or are ready to embrace the stunning qualities of moissanite, it’s all a matter of personal preference. One thing is certain, though: moissanite, with its cosmic origins and exceptional sparkle, truly is a gem like no other. So next time you’re on the hunt for a new piece of jewelry, why not consider moissanite? You might just find that its celestial sparkle is exactly what you’ve been looking for.

Connacht Hospitality Group nominated for 11 Bar of the Year Awards

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The Connacht Hospitality Group's bars have been nominated for 11 awards.

Several bars from the Connacht Hospitality Group have been nominated for multiple accolades at the prestigious 2023 Irish Bar of the Year Awards.

The bars have been nominated for 11 awards across an array of categories, and the winners will be announced at the grand finale at the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road, Dublin, on August 21.

The Irish Bar of the Year Awards sees a panel of experts handpick the best bars each year from across the country, and these judges oversee a slew of diverse and exciting categories.

Winners from each category have the honour of holding their titles until at least the following year.

An Púcán, HYDE Bar & Gin Parlour, 1520, and The Connacht Hotel will all hope to win awards across several categories.

The Connacht Hospitality Group’s bars have been nominated for 11 awards.

Of these, An Púcán has been nominated in the most amount of categories as it stands to potentially claim five awards.

The Forster Street bar could potentially win the Innovative Bar of the Year, City Bar of the Year, Best Bar to Watch the Match, and Outside Space of the Year – plus, its Manager Conor Moloney is up for Bar Manager of the Year.

An Púcán’s covered Beer Garden has recently been upgraded to include one of the largest TV screens in the country and remains one of the liveliest spots in Galway City for watching live televised sport.

HYDE Bar has received the second-most nominations among the CHG bars, and the Galway City-centre spot could claim as many as three awards (Cocktail Bar of the Year, Hotel Bar of the Year, and Gin Bar of the Year).

As one of the most stylish bars in Galway City, it has earned a remarkable reputation as a boho-chic retreat with unique cocktails, chef-crafted food, and elegant surroundings.

The Connacht Hotel is up for two awards – Hotel Bar of the Year as well as Outside Space of the Year (owing to its eye-catching new space The Aviary).

Plus, 1520 could claim the Tourist Bar of the Year gong thanks to its medieval history, welcoming atmosphere, and fantastic location on Quay Street.

The 2023 Irish Bar of the Year Awards will take place at the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road, Dublin, on August 21st – and the awards ceremony will begin at 7:45 pm on the night.

Galway Lotto player scoops €133,104 prize in weekend draw

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Galway Daily news Galway Lotto player scoops €54,583 in midweek madness

A lucky Lotto player in Galway is €133,104 richer this week after matching five numbers and the bonus in the main draw on Saturday.

The winning ticket was purchased using the recently launched Scheduled Play service in the National Lottery app. The West of Ireland winner has now taken the title of largest winner to date using the new service.

A Daily Million player in Monaghan became the 22nd National Lottery millionaire of 2023 after scooping the top prize of €1 million in the 9pm draw on Friday night.

The National Lottery will reveal the winning store location tomorrow, Tuesday 25th July.

An online player in Dublin was also celebrating on Friday night after matching five numbers and one lucky star in the EuroMillions draw to win €164,674.

A National Lottery spokesperson said: “What a weekend it was across National Lottery games! A Monaghan Daily Million player has now become Ireland’s newest millionaire while two online players in Dublin and Galway had plenty to celebrate after the EuroMillions and Lotto draws.”

“The Galway Lotto winner scooped €133,104 after matching five numbers and the bonus in Saturday night’s draw. This is a record-breaking win as the winning ticket was purchased using our recently launched Scheduled Play service in our app.”

“The service is available for Lotto and EuroMillions games in the National Lottery app and allows players to cancel or edit their play schedule at any time up to one draw in advance.”

“It truly is a game-changer for our players as they can now enjoy continuous play without worrying about missing a draw or forgetting to purchase their ticket in time.”

Loughrea based company announces 250 new jobs

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The newly rebranded Glanua is actively filling 100 new jobs, and intends to create another 150 over the next five years. Pic. Michael Dillon-Dillon Photgoraphy

BHSL, the Irish company behind a series of acquisitions in the water and wastewater sector and the parent company of Galway-based Glan Agua, is rebranding to Glanua and is announcing the creation of 250 new jobs.

The newly formulated Glanua Group LTD will be headquartered in Loughrea at the Railway House premises where Glan Agua is already based.

The company will specialise in delivering innovative and sustainable engineering solutions to design, build and maintain critical water and wastewater infrastructure across Ireland and the UK.

Glanua is now seeking to fill 100 new roles in the environmental and engineering sectors and plans to add another 150 staff over the next five years.

Karl Zimmerer, Managing Director of Glanua Group, said: “We are excited to reveal our rebrand to Glanua Group and to announce our plans to hire more staff.”

“This new brand is a key part of an internal integration process that will ensure we continue to supply our clients in Ireland, the UK and across the world with innovative and sustainable engineering solutions for their water and wastewater needs.”

“We look forward to continuing to grow the group through strategic investments in further acquisitions, increased synergies, the sharing of our in-house expertise and the recruitment of talented staff to work alongside our high-performing and dedicated employees.”

“We have set ambitious targets and we are confident we can achieve them, working together from our new and expanding group headquarters in Loughrea.”

“This is the start of a new chapter for Glanua and it is a positive development for Loughrea, for Galway and for Ireland’s ambition to be a lead country in the provision of sustainable and critical engineering solutions.”

The company has experienced significant growth in recent years and already employs 320 people across the Group.

Its clients include Uisce Éireann, Thames Water, Yorkshire Water, Northern Irish Water, Kerry Group, Glanbia and ABP.

Total revenue in Glanua amounted to €97m in 2022, and is projected to increase to €150m this year.

ADHD clinic not yet rolled out in West says Canney

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Galway Daily news Additional Dog fines will have little effect without more Dog Wardens

Local TD Seán Canney has received confirmation from the HSE that the National Clinical Programme for the treatment of ADHD has not yet been extended to the Community Health West.

The Galway East TD said that the HSE could not advise him as to when this service will be put in place, which he said is “typical of announcing a National Plan but failing in the implementation of it.”

He said that this leaves the West without parity of service, with patients having no option but to travel to Dublin for treatment and consultations.

“It is time that the HSE treated all citizens with respect and at least have a plan that is deliverable with timelines, so we know what to expect and when to expect the services to be in place,” said Deputy Canney.

“We have a fine Primary Care Unit located in Tuam with space to provide the service and is ideally located to serve the needs of Galway, Mayo and Roscommon and the West.”

Reservoir works may cause water outages on west side of Galway City

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Galway Daily news Water outages in Athenry on Tuesday

Multiple areas on the west side of Galway City may experience water outages on Monday due to infrastructure works taking place.

Uisce Eireann is carrying out reservoir upgrades which may cause water supply disruptions.

People living in Circular Rd, Westside, Dangan and surrounding areas may experience water outages.

The works are scheduled to take place from 10am to 4pm on Monday, July 24.

It may take 2 – 3 hours after they are completed before people see their full water supply restored.

Funding awarded to four refugee integration programmes in Galway

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Funding awarded to four refugee integration programmes in Galway

Four programmes operating in Galway for the integration of refugees into the community have been awarded funding.

Minister of State Joe O’Brien has announced €1.2 million in funding to 70 not-for-profit, civil society organisations for International Protection support based projects.

Galway City Partnership has been awarded €16,000 for its ‘Art Bridge: Building Connections Through Creativity’, and Croí na Gaillimhe will get €5,000 for their ‘Swimming and Soccer for Children in DP’.

Africa Solidarity Centre CLG has been awarded the maximum of €20,000 to help asylum seekers understand the legal process, and to host activities supporting their integration.

Another €20,000 will go to the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) Ireland for their ‘Integrate Day 1 Project’.

This is the second year of the International Protection Integration Fund, which supports chapter 5.2.2 of the commitments within A White Paper to End Direct Provision and Establish a New International Protection Support Service.

“The International Protection Integration Fund is a significant tool to assist civil society organisations with their invaluable work on helping to integrate people who come to Ireland seeking International Protection,” Minister O’Brien said.

“The importance of this work with people who are at a particularly vulnerable time in their lives is crucial and every day we see the positive impact that civil society organisations make in helping to foster diverse and vibrant communities whilst supporting individuals.”

“I am delighted to be able to award funding today to 70 different projects across Ireland for the development of such vital work.’’

€5 bulky goods waste collection running in City & County

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Galway Daily news Bulky Goods collection events in two Galway towns next week

Households in Galway City and County will have the opportunity to dispose of their bulky waste for just €5 in a collection starting at the end of the month.

The Bulky Goods collection by the city and county council will take place at the Tuam, Clifden, and Ballinasloe Civic Amenity Sites, along with the Barna Recycling facility on the Headford Road in Galway City.

The collection will run from Monday, July 31 through to Saturday, August 12.

For €5, people can recycle three-piece suites, wardrobes, bedside lockers, mattresses, bed frames, dining tables and chairs.

Galway city and county councils have reminded the public that this service must be booked online via the Barna Recycling website before arriving at any of the sites.

Pre-booking is essential to avail of the €5 gate fee and regular gate and weighbridge fees will be incurred if people arrive at sites without prior online booking of the service.

The service is for householders only, and commercial operators will be turned away.

The local authorities have said that items which will not be accepted include construction and demolition waste, hazardous waste, bags of household waste, toys, trampolines, ceramic and textiles.

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