Quote of the Week: Oscar Wilde

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"All that I desire to point out is the general principle that life imitates art far more than art imitates life"

Oscar Wilde (Irish Poet/Playwright)

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Books: 'Born Standing Up: A Comic's Life' by Steve Martin

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Most under 30's will remember him more for playing the embarrassingly silly yet funny white-haired Dad trying to cleave to his dignity in movies such as Parenthood, Father Of The Bride and Cheaper By The Dozen, while the slightly older generation may appreciate his early stand up routines and comical Saturday Night Live performances.

In some respects his buffoonery ways are taken for granted by and underestimated as mere unintelligent rants accompanied by funny facial expressions. If you thought this you will think twice after reading his memoir as there is much more to Mr Steve Martin!

I always admired his zany comedy tactics (his comedy thought train or where he brought the humour) as apposed to what many may have dismissed as 'zany antics' or pre-school punchline humour. No this guy is definitely a 'thinker', a philosopher actually.  

In the late 1970's, Steve Martin's career as a stand-up comic was at a climax. With legendary appearances on Saturday Night Live, two platinum comedy albums, and ubiquitous catch-phrases (Well, excuuuuusee me!), this gray-haired, white-suited comedian burst seemingly out of nowhere, straight to the top. But Steve Martin was no overnight sensation. He had spent the prior decade and a half tirelessly learning, honing, and refining the character and the act that in the late 1970's would be indelibly imprinted on the frontal lobes of a nation. Born Standing Up: A Comic's Life is all about what went before stardom; it's about Steve Martin's fifteen year slog through the trenches of stand-up comedy. The story of his rise to fame includes some tender accounts of family life growing up in Los Angeles and his awkward detached relationship with his father who resented his family for disrupting his own acting aspirations.

From a career that began in 1955 aged 10 when he landed a job selling guidebooks at the brand new Disneyland theme park in Anaheim, California, to his growing education of rope and magic tricks, joke-telling and essentially his learning a code of practice and discipline to which he would adhere over the next couple of decades - many of the seeds of Steve Martin's later persona would be sown at Merlin's Magic Shop during his teenage years, where manipulating playing cards for eight to twelve hours daily taught him to appreciate "the pleasure and subtlety of physical expression and the potency of movement".

However the most notable lesson of Steve Martin's Disneyland career came from former vaudevillian, Dave Steward, who instilled in the aspiring performer the notion that laughter need not be punchline-dependent, but could rather be "created out of absence." A startlingly new concept at the time but one that was further nurtured by Martin's exposure to the comedy of Lenny Bruce and Tom Lehrer, cutting-edge comedians at that time.

But it was his infiltration into the world of television that eventually got Steve Martin noticed. In the late 60's he became a writer and sometimes performer on The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, for which he won an Emmy. This led to numerous appearances on daytime talk shows which in turn led to work on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson.

It was in 1974, during his sixteenth Tonight Show appearance, that Martin experienced a major breakthrough. During his crazy act he speed-talked for about two minutes then started a wild flail, which must have been pretty funny because at that moment the camera cut away to a dimly lit Johnny Carson, precisely as he whirled up from his chair, doubling over with laughter. Suddenly and subliminally, a showbiz miracle occurred and he was endorsed. At the end of the act, even Sammy Davis Jr. came over and hugged him.

This is a really enjoyable memoir to read (or listen to if you choose the audio book, Steve Martin himself tells his own story) and with that set aside, a word to the wise, if you have gone through life with no knowledge of or having not seen The Jerk (1979), a movie written by and starring Steve Martin, you haven't lived. It’s a movie that inspired a whole comedy niche: Smart dumb - the smarter the joke, the dumber it felt. True Steve Martin fans and movie comedy devotees will have seen it of course but it's well worth a watch!

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Quote of the Week: Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

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"If you would create something, you must be something"

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (German Poet, Novelist & Playwright)

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Ireland: The A-Z Irish Glossary - 'V' is for Vitamin G

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'Vitamin G'

With a Capital 'G'. Meaning that it is so good, it surpasses the qualification of 'beer'.

Guinness is a type of (some say the textbook definition of) stout. Like a typical stout, it is dark in colour, almost black and has a mildly bitter mellow taste. The creamy head that is commonly associated with a pull off the tap can be approximated using patented "widget" technology in cans. When pulling a pint off of a tap, it is customary to fill the glass roughly 2/3 to 3/4 full and let it sit before pulling the head.

Contrary to popular belief, Guinness may taste heavy, but actually is very low in alcohol and has less calories per serving than Coors Light making it a perfect anytime drink. Another bit of trivia - It is law in Ireland that if a bartender tips or spills the head of your Guinness, you are entitled to a fresh one. It's only natural...Damn straight!

It all began back in 1725 when Arthur Guinness was born in Celbridge, County Kildare. Due to an inheritance left to him by his godfather who happened to be the Archbishop of Cashel, Arthur Price, Guinness combined his new found wealth and fascination for brewing beer and decided to set up a brewing business in Leixlip, County Kildare in 1755. Two years later he moved the business to the Grand Canal at James’s Street, Dublin, where construction began allowing access by water to Shannon Harbour and Limerick. This waterway later became vital to the brewery in the transport of casks and raw materials, remaining important well into the 20th century. The Harp was introduced on the trademark buff oval label accompanying Arthur Guinness' signature and was registered as a trademark in 1876.

Now officially operating as Diageo Guinness plc (though the Guinness family still own 51% shares), Guinness 'stout' is now brewed and sold in many parts of the world, the largest market being the United Kingdom, with Nigeria a close second. The company forsees Nigeria overtaking the UK as the largest global market by the year 2014.

Guinness are also renowned for some of the best global advertising campaigns with many memorable slogans such as "My Goodness, my Guinness!" and "Nothing added but time".

The 'Blonde in the Black Dress' as a pint of Guinness is also known as, is an acquired taste and most probably tried at least once by every Irish man and woman but loved by many. I'm pretty sure it is also what God invented to prevent the Irish from taking over the world.

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Movies: Crazy Stupid Love 'Review'

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Movie:
Crazy, Stupid, Love

Genre:
Comedy, Romance, Drama

The Verdict:
More 'Sweet, Funny, Love' but it's unabashed sweetness, undisclosed humour and its terrifically talented cast more than make up for it!

Rating: 3 Stars

STARRING:

Steve Carell
Julianne Moore
Ryan Gosling
Kevin Bacon
Emma Stone
Analeigh Tipton
Jonah Bobo
Joey King
Marisa Tomei

Josh Groban

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Culture: London Cockney Rhyming Slang

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Cockney rhyming slang is not a language but a collection of phrases used by Cockneys and other Londoners that originated in the East End of London. A true Cockney is someone born within the sound of Bow Bells. (St Mary-le-Bow Church in Cheapside, London). However the term Cockney is now loosely applied to many born outside this area as long as they have a "Cockney" accent or a Cockney heritage.

The Cockney accent is heard less often in Central London these days but is widely heard in the outer London boroughs, the London suburbs and all across South East England. It is common in Bedfordshire towns like Luton and Leighton Buzzard, and Essex towns such as Romford. 

Rhyming Slang phrases are derived from taking an expression which rhymes with a word and then using that expression instead of the word. For example the word "look" rhymes with "butcher's hook". In many cases the rhyming word is omitted - so you won't find too many Londoners having a "butcher's hook" at this site, but you might find a few having a "butcher's". 

Some slang expressions have escaped from London and are in popular use throughout the rest of Britain. For example "use your loaf" is an everyday phrase for the British, but not too many people realise it is Cockney Rhyming Slang ("loaf of bread: head"). Classic British television shows such as Minder, Steptoe and Son, Porridge, Only Fools and Horses and even the ever popular Eastenders have done much to spread Cockney rhyming slang throughout Britain and to the rest of the world.

Modern cockney slang that is being developed today tends to only rhyme words with the names of celebrities or famous people. For example, "We're going for few Britney's/Britney Spears", meaning "beers". There are very few new Cockney slang expressions that do not follow this trend. The only one that has gained ground recently that bucks this trend is "Wind and Kite" meaning "Web site".

Here, we are going to celebrate the wonder that is cockney slang from A to Z. Kicking off with expressions that begin with the letter A.. Have fun working them into your everday vocabulary!

Example: I will have to meet you around the back of the sheds A La Mode because I ain't got no Arthur Ashe and I need your Anneka Rice - can you Adam and Eve it?!! Totally Adam and the Ants!

Able and Willing = Shilling
Abraham Lincoln = Stinking
Acid Trip = Rip
Acker Bilk = Milk
Adam and Eve = Believe
Adam and the Ants = Pants/Plants
Adrian Mole = Dole
Advice from Mother = Rubber (Contraception)
Ace of Spades = Aids  
Airs and Graces = Faces/Braces
AJ Hackett = Jacket
A la Mode = Code
Albert Hall = Ball
Al Capone = Telephone
Al Caponed = Stoned
Al Pacino = Cappuccino
Alexei Sayle = Email
Alf Garnet = Barnet (hair)
Ali G = Pee
All Night Rave = Shave
Alligator = Later
Ancient Greek = Freak
Andy McNabs = Crabs
Andy Pandy = Brandy/Dandy
Ann Boleyn = Gin
Anneka Rice = Advice
Ant and Dec = Cheque
Anthea Turner = Earner
Apple = Sistine Chapel
Apple Bobbing = Robbing
Apple fritter = Bitter
Apples and Pears = Stairs
April Fools = Pools/Stools
April Showers = Flowers
Artful Dodger = Lodger
Arthur Ashe = Cash
Arthur Conan Doyle = Boil
Arthur Fowler = Growler
Arthur Scargil = Gargle
Auntie Ella = Umbrella
Auntie Nelly = Telly
Austin Power = Shower

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Music: Girl Power wins the X Factor!

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After an awesome yet nail-biting finish to this years X Factor final, Sunday night seen Little Mix become the first girl group to ever win the X Factor!! The four girls who came into the competition as solo singers are tipped to follow in the steps of Girls Aloud and The Spice Girls. Jade Thirlwell, 18, Perrie Edwards, 18, Jesy Nelson, 20 and 19-year-old Leigh-Anne Pinnock beat the opposition - the very talented Liverpudlian Marcus Collins on the final night of the competition at Wembley Arena.

The four-piece are now in the race for the converted Christmas No.1 with their cover of Damien Rice’s 'Cannonball'. All four girls were in tears including their mentor Tulisa Contostavlos after the vote result was announced. Runner-up Marcus Collins graciously declared "I'm very proud of myself but the girls deserve it - they've been amazing". The girls have now won a record contract worth millions through Syco Music -  Simon Cowell's company which is a subsidiary of the Sony Music label.

Throughout the competition Louis Walsh told Little Mix that they were going to be the biggest girl group on the planet by this time next year so there are very high hopes for the little minxes. Geri Halliwell of the Spice Girls sent them a bouquet of flowers with a message that read "Good Luck and Remember Girl Power!" It probably is time to have another girl group take over the charts! Fair play to them - they definitely have an audience and they are a great talent by four. Given the right contract along with hard work and a good promotions team behind them, the three runners up including Marcus Collins, Amelia Lily and Misha B could be just as huge!

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Fashion: Hats off to Hats!: A History A-B..

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Except for the winter months, I would never have considered myself an avid hat wearer. But I can honestly say I have always admired the detail that can go in to the design of many a head cosy. You also don't have to be related to the Queen or attend Royal Ascot on a yearly basis to appreciate the wear of a good hat. Generation Lady Gaga know that more than most as current and more adventurous hat trends and head accessories sweep the catwalks of the world.

It turns out too that when I went to research the art of millinery - it of course, naturally goes back into centuries of history where I discovered that different types of hats were constructed for a variety of reasons; climate being only one, cultural or religious reasons played their part too but the good old-fashioned - because they just looked fashionably fabulous at the time and was the finishing statement many liked to add to an outfit!

Listed here are many different types of hats, spanning over centuries, each of which have different means of technique to produce. As there are so many, it wasn't possible to squeeze them all into one article of course so we will do it in stages, beginning with the letters A and B..

AGAL - (Ah gaul)-The thick cords of wool which hold the KAFFIYEH, the clothe headdress of the desert people, in place.

ALPINE - Sporty types of hats of soft felt or tweed. The crown slants upward to a lengthwise crease. The narrow brim is rolled up at the back and turned down in front . Brush or feather trim in the headband. Adapted from hats worn by people in the Swiss Alps. Also TYROLEAN HAT.

ANNIE HALL - (Late 1970's) In the movie "Annie Hall," the actress Diane Keaton popularized a fashion consisting of a drooping hat, long vest, wide tie, baggy pants and a man's shirt.

ARCTIC CAP - Fabric crown insulated with goose down. Mouton lamb storm flaps turn down to protect neck, ears and forehead.

ATTIFET - (Mid 16th C) French headdress consisting of hair rolled over pads. Worn with heart-shaped cap. Also ARCELET, MARY STUART COIF AND CAP.

AUROLE - A late nineteenth century hat with an upturned brim that framed the face in a semi-circle shape, popular throughout the 1940s.

AUTO MOBILE BONNET - (Early 20th C) Large brimmed hat worn with a long chiffon, net or tulle scarf that enveloped the face and hat and tied under the chin. Worn to protect the wearer while riding in the new open auto mobiles over dusty roads.

BABET - Cap with a small puffered caul set high on the head, the sides descending over the cheeks.

BABUSHKA - (Ba-boosh-ka) - Russian word for grandmother. A Russian peasant scarf worn either tied under the chin or at the back of the neck

BABY STUART CAP - Close fitting, shirred lace infant's cap. From the 17c. portrait of the infant Stuart prince by Van Dyck.

BAKER BOY HAT - (or Newsboy hat) It has the same overall shape and stiff peak in front as a flat cap, but the body of the cap is rounder, fuller, and paneled with a button on top, and often with a button attaching the front to the brim (as the flat cap sometimes has).

BALACLAVA - A type of headgear which probably originated in some cold mountainous country in Asia. It is usually knitted and covers the ears and often the face with an opening for the eyes.

BALMORAL - The Scotch BLUEBONNET of the highlanders. Blue woolen beret cap with top projecting over a tartan band of Stuart colors, checkered design. In 1850, Queen Victoria and her Prince Consort made the Aberdeenshire, Scotland castle of Balmoral their summer residence, The Queen dressed the prince in the Highland costume and created a fashion.

BANDEAU (BANDEAUX) - A decorative headband worn as a hat, such as those popular in the 1960s: or as a decorative headdress like the 1920s headache bands.

BANDINO HAT - (1930's) Woman's large-brimmed hat. Named for Luca della Robbia's 15c. renditions of the Christ Child.

BARBE - (14 to 16c.) A long piece of vertically pleated linen, worn under the chin and covering the chest. With a black hood and long black veil. The headdress of widows and mourners.

BARBETTE - (late 12c.,13c. 14c.) Linen chin band, pinned in position on top of the head. Illustration shows the FILLET, a stiffened band of linen, wound over the BARBETTE covered with a small veil.

BARRET - Wide, flat cap worn during the Middle Ages by priests. Barret of velvet with embroidery and feathers shown in the 15c. and 16c. paintings by Holbein.

BASEBALL CAP - Gored cap with visor. Button on top. These type of hats are very much in vogue at the moment and have been for several years.

BASQUE BERET - (Bask ba ray) Flat, round, woolen fabric cap worn by Basque peasants. Usually woven in one piece

BAVOLET (Ba vo lay) - A cap worn by French peasant women. A 19c style called the CURTAIN BONNET, had a back ruffle, called a bavolet, that shaded the neck. In the 16c., the BAVOLETTE was a piece of fabric that was folded and attached to the cap, with the folds projecting over the forehead and hanging down in the back.

BEANIE - (20c., American) Small, round skull-cap, cut in gores to make it fit the head. Also BEANY, DINK, DINKY. See CALOT. The current beanie is a knitted type of hat, but is still described as above.

BEAVER - A hat of various crown and brim shapes. Originally, in 14c., made of beaver skin. In 16c., made from felted beaver fur. In 17c., the tall top hat, made of silk in imitation of beaver.

BEEFEATER - The narrow-brimmed hat worn by the British Yeomen of the Guards and Warders of the Tower of London since the 16c. These type of Hats consists of a flat-topped, medium-high crown gathered into a headband.

BEEHIVE - High, tapered crown, Shaped like a beehive. Hat usually has a narrow brim.

BELLBOY or BELLHOP - A small, stiff cap in pillbox shape, usually trimmed with braid or buttons, sometimes with a chin strap. Copy of a cap worn by hotel bellboys.

BERET (ba ray) - A cap with a round flat crown of varying widths. Made of felt, wool or other fabric. Forms of the beret have been found since Ancient Times. A larger beret style was a favourite of King Henry VIII during the sixteenth century. In 15c., HALO BERET. Also BASQUE BERET, PLUMED BERET, TAM O' SHANTER, PANCAKE BERET, MONTGOMERY BERET.

BERRETINO (Ber ret tee no) - Square, scarlet skullcap with corners pinched in. As worn by Cardinals of the Catholic Church. See BIRETTA

BETHLEHEM HEADDRESS - Truncated, cone-shaped cap, decorated with gold and silver coins and jewels. Worn with a veil. Ancient Moslem headdress. Copied in the 1930's . Also TARBOOSH.

BIBI BONNET - (bee bee bunneh ) - Appeared around 1830's as a smaller version of the POKE BONNET. At first it was fitted close to the sides of the head, later the brim flared upward and forward in front. In the late 19c., any small fanciful and elegant type of hat was called BIBI. In 1956, Sally Victor came out with a BIBI style.

BICORN or BICORNE - (By corn) A variation of the cocked hat, appearing around 1790, and supplanting the TRICORNE. The brim of the BICORNE is folded up in front and back. The BICORNE became the military dress hat of the British, American and French. Other types of hats similar to these are the WELLINGTON, which was a version that had tassels. The NAPOLEON hat was a BICORNE with a tricolor cockade.

BIGGIN - (der. Fr. BEGUINE, a cap worn by nuns ) A coif like cap, with ties under the chin, 16c. and 17c.

BIRETTA (Bi ret ah) - Since 17c., a square cap with three or four upright projections, radiating from the center crown . Worn by Roman Catholic clergy. Developed, since 13c., out of a cap formed like the modern beret. Also BERRETTA, BIRRETTA, BIRETUM, BARRET-CAP, BARETTE, BERET.

BLUEBONNET - Broad, slat cap of dark blue wool, woven in one piece. Narrow tartan headband. Colored tuft on top. Also BALMORAL.

BOATER - (British term) A stiff, straight-brimmed, straw hat with a flat crown and a ribbon band. Also known as a SKIMMER or a SAILOR STRAW. These types of hats were introduced about 1864 for children, then worn by women. Worn by men from 1880 to 1930.

BOLLINGER - A bowl shaped stiffened crown, topped with a button or knob, with a narrow brim.

BONGRACE - (16c. and 17c.) Oblong shaped, stiff material which dips over the forehead and drapes in back, worn over a coif.

BONNET - Until 16c., any masculine head covering other than a hood was a bonnet (French), cap (English). Scotchmen still call their caps BONNET. Since 19c., the term refers to a soft head covering for women that ties under the chin.

BOUDOIR CAP - (Boo dwar) - Softly shirred cap with a lace ruffle. In 19c., and 20c., a cap worn to cover undressed women's hair. Lingerie or morning cap worn by flapper in the 1920s

BOURRELET - Originally a twisted scarf or turban worn on the helmet. A 15c. term for the padded roll worn by both men and women as a base for a headdress.

BOWLER - (Bole er) A stiff felt hat with a round crown and small brim rolled slightly on the sides. In 1850, William Bowler made a hard felt hat, designed by the London hatter, Lock, for Sir William Coke. These type of hats were created to protect the head while riding horseback. The hat has a low melon-shaped crown and a rounded brim that turns up at the sides. The hat shape was adapted for women and children, accepted for town wear by men until WW II. Also BILLYCOCK, DERBY.

BRETON SAILOR - (Bret on) - (French, bretonh) Woman's hat with a brim that turns up evenly all around, originally a masculine hat worn by the Bretons..

BRIDAL HATS - Many types of Hats worn by brides or the wedding party

BRIDAL HEADPIECES - Head wear worn by brides

BRIDAL VEILS - A long length of tuelle worn to flow down the back of the bride and is usually attached to a decorative headpiece.

BROADBRIM - Term is nickname for Quaker, Friend. See QUAKER HAT.

BUBBLE - Melon shaped, pillbox cap.

BUCKET HATS - A modern fabric covered casual hat with straight sides, flat crown and a small brim. These types of hats are very popular today.

BULBOUS - (16c., German) BALZO, REBALZO (16c. Italian ) A large, dome shaped cap. This hat completely covered the hair.

BUMPER BRIM - Hat with a tubular shaped brim. Size of brim and crown varies. See KRIZIA CAP for 1970's version

BUSBY - (buz bi) - A tall, cylindrical fur cap with regimental colored bag like ornament hanging form the top, over the right side. Brush on top of center front. Originally 15c., these types of hats were part of the cavalry uniform of Hungarian Hussars.

BUSH HAT - Wide-brimmed man's felt hat, turned up brim at one side. Also SOUTH ARFICAN SAFARI HAT, CADDIE, CADDY, SLOUCH HAT can be grouped as similar types of hats.

BUTTERFLY HEADDRESS - (15c.) Variation of the HENNIN. Box like cap, wired and draped with sheer veiling so that it stands out like butterfly wings.

BYCOCKET, BYCOKET - (By cock et) High crowned hat with wide brim that is peaked in front and turned up in back . Middle Ages, 16c., Italian students in 20c. (See picture)

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Quote of the Week: Henry David Thoreau

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"If you have built castles in the air, your work need not be lost; that is where they should be. Now put foundations under them"

Henry David Thoreau (American Author, Poet & Philosopher)

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Beauty: Flick Tricks with Eye Sticks - What's the best Eye-liner?

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In terms of make-up trends, eyeliners have made a huge comeback in the past couple of years thanks to the likes of Amy Winehouse (RIP) and Adele. Particularly liquid liners remain very much a make-up bag staple again this season. What do you look for in a eyeliner? How do you apply it? Gently winged at eye end or full on cat's eyes?!

From my own experience with eyeliner, I find that felt-tip nibs come out on top when it comes to precision and texture leaving all pen-like applicators behind..

I also find they can't be too wet or it can get messy and blinked all over your face. Fast drying felt-tip nibs are the way to go for fine eye lines and if you like bolder looks then I recommend those pots of get eyeliner applied with a brush for bolder effects.

Listed below are five different eyeliners I can recommend that are on current market shelves. So whether it is a look of demure, dramatic, or drag you're after, just keep on flicking! 

1. Clarins Instant Liner, €24, Clarins counters nationwide
It's the colour that stands out about this liner - if you want black this is blacker than black! It's not unlike a classic powdery kohl liner but much easier to apply. A good dramatic effect when you draw a fine line and and it's long lasting all night.

2. Catrice Liquid Liner, €4.29, available Nationwide
Available in waterproof and on-trend colours this liner is good for it's price. The soft applicator is also easy to control.

3. Lancome Artliner, €27.50, Lancome counters nationwide
This spongy nibbed liquid eyeliner is not dissimilar to the Clarins liner (above) but Lancome's nib is a bit longer which makes for a more artistic flick at the end.

4. Maybelline New York Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner, €11.99, available nationwide
This eyeliner is half the price of many others but worth recommending due to an excellent price for doing a great precise job. It has 24-hour staying power and comes wih a great brush.

5. Estee Lauder Liquid Eyeliner, €23, Estee Lauder counters nationwide
Moving away from the classic black this season, there is a trend for metallic liners. Some are too pale but this liner in Silver Zinc is dark enough to define but suitably metallic and shimmery.

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Technology: 10 Must-have 'Reference' Android Apps!!

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1. Wikidroid (Reference) - Wikipedia in your pocket - replaced Wikipock if your an information geek on the go..

2. Google Sky (Reference) - Would you like to see the location of all the planets and stars in the universe from the comfort of your armchair? Point your phone in any direction because this is more than a map of the sky! So much fun..

3. IMDb (Reference Movies) - If you have not yet heard of the International Movies Database website by now, you must be hiding under a rock! "What was the name of that movie?" The next time you can't remember the name of an actor, television show, or film, IMDb Movies & TV saves the day. One of the handiest reference websites on the planet, IMDb never fails when it comes to looking up anything that has to do with TV, film, or Hollywood.

4. Web MD (Symptom Checker) For all you hypochondriacs out there! WebMD is much more than a diagnosis app, although you certainly can use it to input symptoms you are experiencing and find some clues as to what's ailing you. It also contains listings for healthcare professionals and pharmacies in your area, as well as first-aid guides - simple instructions for dealing with an emergency that everyone should have accessible at any time.

5. Google Translate (Language)
There are many news reference applications out there but this is really useful. It covers international, national and regional news in your part of the country. Good if you're travelling on the bus and want a quick update.

6. EverPaper (Web page saver)
This application simply has the ability to save web pages so you can read them later. Very handy for all budding journalists or students. It is the most solid Instapaper client for Android according to reviews.  First off, just like Instapaper (which you need to have first - they go hand in hand) it’s ridiculously clean...It has a wealth of options, and even has Evernote functions, however limited. As you’re browsing, you can add items to your Instapaper account, and when your Android device syncs, you can read them at your leisure.

7. Google News (Regional)
This application is intended to ease the access to the Google News regional editions. Based on the current language set in the phone and the coarse position of the user, the application tries to find out the best regional edition for the user.

8. Skype (Instant Communication/Telephone Calling)
- To be perfectly clear, I don’t think Skype is 'the best' communication app for Android, but it’s one of those tools that I will continue to use because other people use it, too, and so it’s often the quickest way to get in touch with certain people. In short, the Skype app is one that I rely on, even though it has some functional limitations (namely, no support for front-facing cameras, as well as taxing the battery pretty severely).

9. Dictionary.com (Language/Spelling)
- The free Dictionary.com app for Android delivers trusted reference content from Dictionary.com and Thesaurus.com, including more than 325,000 words and definitions and 300,000 synonyms and antonyms. The app also features phonetic and audio pronunciations, spelling suggestions and Dictionary.com's popular Word of the Day that is enjoyed by millions of people.

10. Words with Friends Free (Word Game - just for fun!) - The Scrabble-like game from Zynga, Words with Friends, is among the most popular mobile social games around. If you own an Android phone but your friends are on other devices, such as iPhones or iPads, you can still challenge them to head-to-head wordplay, as it doesn't matter on which platform your opponents are playing. While some Android users have reported stability problems with the game, Words with Friends is in such high demand that most people will grin and bear it… especially since it's free.

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Television: The X Factor and 'Fix' Factor Fixation

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Having studied and worked in the television business for quite a few years I know a thing or two about how the production mechanism of a television show works. I also earned a Diploma in Music Management (managing/promoting recording artists and events) a few years ago and so understand the techniques and lengths a promoter will go to 'sell' their artist.

With this in mind, I still genuinely find it quite fascinating how reactive people are to some of the mainstream TV shows and musicians/performers alike and how emotionally involved we can all become in their journey, how we all interact with them unconsciously through such media and how it impacts our society and culture somewhat.

The latest series of X Factor has produced some of the most interesting headlines, stories and conspiracy theories to date that truly expose quite an unpredictable relationship these television promoters have with the reporting media. That stated, there's been a kind of backlash fuelled by the reporting internet media and social networking sites in particular this year that's never been seen before. Are the popular X Factor' show days numbered? Like many previous years, this year's X Factor show has not been short of a headline, many might say for all the wrong reasons.

Firstly, it's no secret at this stage, nearly every contestant that made judges houses in the early stages of the competition had some kind of 'back-story' - Misha Bryan had a tough upbringing and was estranged from her mother. Frankie Cocozza was tagged the relentless 'wildchild'. Johnny Robinson was the older ex-transvestite with a heart of gold and Kitty Brucknell was the eccentric and unpredictable crazy Lady Gaga wannabe etc.. The unspoken message we have all been given through the wonderful medium of television is that they all deserve a place on the talent show because of these reasons (aside from the fact they can hold a tune of course). That has been the shows 'spin' and that's exactly how it is produced and transmitted. Fact.

This year we have been constantly emotionally blackmailed with these stories throughout the series, the after-show (which I can't watch for this reason!) is the back end for all storyline referrals and addicts and then the soap opera continues when we are bombarded again through online and other types of media. A few weeks ago, one such show saved Misha B from being voted out I believe. Viewers saw Misha – who has found herself in the bottom two several times during the competition and her mentor Kelly Rowland having an emotional heart-to-heart during a filmed segment on Saturday night’s live show. During the chat they both broke down in tears as Misha talked about the open letter her mother had sent via the 'press'. The following night she acquired enough votes to stay in the competition. An online debate of whether it was a coincidence or a 'fix' went viral afterwards but the truth is it could be a bit of both.

The Mark & Spencer's christmas TV campaign presented all remaining contestants nicely but it was reported that many were unhappy because Misha B performed the notable finale of the song/advert which suggested she was tipped to win the competition. Then previously eliminated contestant Amelia Lily was voted back into the show after Frankie Cocozza left or was 'kicked out' for drug-taking and M&S switched Misha from the advert finale to Amelia and the rumours were rife that she was then tipped to win!

This week the media reported that the shows' producers were left red-faced after it emerged another X Factor bungle sparked 'fix' speculation. Amelia Lily's 'winner's single' was made available for pre-order on HMV's website yesterday, days before the ITV series final. Oops! While all three finalists have pre-recorded their single to go on sale immediately after the winner is announced this weekend, only Amelia Lily's appeared on the website. An immediate Twitter storm ensued, causing the HMV site to crash as curious fans flooded the website to see for themselves. A representative from HMV then came forward and appologised saying it was basically a 'technical glitch' and that 'Hmv.com was looking to accept customer pre-orders for versions of the X Factor winner’s single recorded by each of the three finalists.

From my understanding the 'fix' conspiracy theory is that Simon Cowell/Syco/ITV/Sony/Talkback Thames (or whoever runs the show are using The X Factor as a launch pad for an artist(s) of their choice. It doesn't matter what the public want: the contestant(s) the bosses have chosen will win. The theory usually includes unverified "evidence" that the aforementioned "fixers" have been grooming the chosen one for months or maybe even years before they enter the competition. But the reality is there is no verified evidence to support this theory.

But is there substance behind the rumours? The reality is, if you are a television show, movie or musician's promoter say, your role is to feed the media a story - that particular media obviously needing stories to sell their product. But to use an analogy, it's like feeding a colic baby, the information formula is sucked down, digested by the public, if it goes against the grain it's regurgitated back at the feeder (artist/promoter) and that's the way it's always been whether you agree or disagree on it's morals or inner workings. Of course it's not fair, but tell that to the baby! The media doesn't know how to work any other way! I guess what I'm saying is that we are all part of the response mechanism that the media is constantly trying to guage so we are all responsible in a way. Crazy, I know! If you are someone who suspects that the producers are laughing at us all and counting their cash while we good honest folk vote in their premium-rate phone polls without a hope in hell of really changing the outcome, well then don't pick up the phone and vote. It's still your choice!

At the end of the day Simon Cowell and his teams are working to a brief that aims to find a popular recording artist within the medium of light entertainment television and it doesn't always work out - remember Joe McElderry anyone? Exactly, neither do I! Remember 'Fix' is a strong word - it is light TV entertainment that's aim is to get us all talking and voting. It is what it is.

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Money: Irish Budget 2012 The Last of the Cuts..Simpified! - Day 2

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BUDGET 2012 - DAY 2

Day two and Minister for Finance Michael Noonan defended his "tough" budget on RTÉ's 6.1 News explaining that the Government tried as far as possible to impose the burden on those who could shoulder it the most. Here's the reality...

Income Tax: No increase

VAT: Raised by 2% to 23%

Universal Social Charge: Exemption raised to €10,000 - this affects 330,000 people

Carbon Tax: Increased from €15 per tonne to €20 per tonne

This means:

    1.4c increase on Petrol
    1.6c increase on Diesel
    €17.32 increase on Fuel Oil (to rise in May)
    €14.46 increase on Natural Gas (to rise in May)
    No Carbon Tax on solid fuels

Cigarettes: 25c increase on pack of 20                    

Alcohol: No change in excise duty - Legislation planned on low-cost alcohol

Motor Tax: Changes to apply from 1 January     

    Band A up €56 to €160                          
    Band B up €69 to €225
    Band C up €28 to €330

Mortgage Interest Relief:

    30% for first-time buyers between 2004 and 2008
    25% for first-time buyers in 2012
    15% for non-first time buyers

€100 Household Charge: Waived for those on mortgage interest supplement and those in unfinished housing estates

Stamp Duty:

No change to stamp duty on residential property
Commercial property rate lowered from 6% to 2%

Farming:

    Lower commercial stamp duty rate will also apply to farmland
    50% stock relief on registered farm partnerships
    100% rate for certain young trained farmers
    Incentives for timely transfer of farms before the current owners reach the age of 66

Capital Gains Tax incentive: Applies to property bought by end 2013 and kept for 7 years

Capital Acquisitions Tax: Up from 25% to 30%

Capital Gains Tax: Up from 25% to 30%

DIRT: Up from 27% to 30%

Corporate Tax Rate: To remain at 12.5%

Corporate tax: Exemption for start-ups extended

Research & Development

    €100,000 of expenditure can be used as tax credit
    Companies can use R&D credits to reward key employees

GDP: 1.3% growth forecast in 2012

Special Assignee Relief Programme: Initiative to attract key staff

50% Employer PRSI pension relief abolished

Approved Retirement Funds: Tax up 1% to 6% on transfer of funds

Gambling: Legislation planned on internet betting

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Books: Kids Books this Christmas - 2011

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Here are 10 childrens' books your kids may be interested in getting their gnashers around this Christmas, all available via Santa or all good Easons bookshops...

Guess How Much I Love You Pop Up by Sam McBratney & Anita Jeram      
This is the perennial bestseller - one of the world's best-loved picture books - in an exquisite brand-new pop-up edition. With sales of over 23 million copies, "Guess How Much I Love You" tells the story of a game Big Nutbrown Hare and Little Nutbrown Hare play as they try to express their love for each other. But as each tries to outdo the other, they discover that love is not an easy thing to measure! This gorgeous new pop-up edition is one that children will ask for time and again. (Easons €10.95)

Hank Zipzer Bind-up: The World's Greatest Underachiever Takes on the Universe by Henry Winkler  
This is the first two hilarious adventures of a cheeky, loveable hero - now in one volume! Hank's ingenious plans to avoid doing his homework end in comic disaster as he accidentally floods his classroom and causes mayhem in his mum's deli, The Crunchy Pickle...by trying to hide his school report in the meat grinder! This is a "New York Times" bestselling series from actor-turned-writer Henry "The Fonz" Winkler and acclaimed children's writer Lin Oliver. It features all new illustrations and fully Anglicised text. It features an engaging, inventive hero for the reluctant boy reader. (Easons €6.99)

Ripleys Believe It or Not by Robert Le Roy Ripley, Hardback             
Ripley's Believe It or Not! 2011 offers a whole new feast of bizarre facts and features to enthrall and entertain. Be amazed at the pink dolphin, the girl no bigger than her schoolbag, and the island of lost dolls. Gasp at extraordinary true tales about vampires, the Ripley's waxwork gallery, and the feats of sword swallowers past and present. Illustrated throughout with colour photographs and two pullouts featuring astounding lifesize images, this fascinating book is a must-have for anyone who loves jaw-dropping images and unbelievable facts. (Easons €25.10)

Discover the Extreme World by Amanda Askew                            
Explore the awesome planet and everything in it with remarkable guide. The book focuses on the extremes of core reference subjects. From deadly animal battles and futuristic spy technology to super volcanoes and other coldest places in the universe. (Easons €12.99)

Gangsta Granny by David Walliams       
Another hilarious and moving novel from bestselling, critically acclaimed author David Walliams, the natural successor to Roald Dahl. A story of prejudice and acceptance, funny lists and silly words, this new book has all the hallmarks of David's previous bestsellers. Our hero Ben is bored beyond belief after he is made to stay at his grandma's house. She's the boringest grandma ever: all she wants to do is to play Scrabble, and eat cabbage soup. But there are two things Ben doesn't know about his grandma. 1) She was once an international jewel thief. 2) All her life, she has been plotting to steal the crown jewels, and now she needs Ben's help! (Easons €12.99)

The Lonely Beast by Chris Judge       
This is the tale of a Beast, whose determination to overcome his loneliness leads him to undertake a daring and dangerous quest to find others like him. (Easons €6.99)

Skullduggery Pleasant: Death Bringer by Derek Landy      
The sixth instalment in the historic, hysterical and horrific Skulduggery Pleasant series. Think you've seen anything yet? You haven't. Because the Death Bringer is about to rise! The Necromancers no longer need Valkyrie to be their Death Bringer, and that's a Good Thing. There's just one catch. There's a reason the Necromancers don't need her any more. And that's because they've found their Death Bringer already, the person who will dissolve the doors between life and death. And that's a very, very Bad Thing! (Easons €9.99)

Winnie the Witch by Valerie Thomas & Korky Paul
Winnie, the Witch lives in a black house. She has black chairs and black stairs, black floors and black doors. The trouble is that Winnie's cat, Wilbur, is also black. After sitting on him and tripping over him, Winnie decides to turn Wilbur into a green cat. But then, he goes out into the long grass! Winnie is going to need a little magic to make sure she can always see Wilbur...This is a beautifully-crafted story with a colourful final twist. (Easons €7.90)

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever by Jeff Kinney 
Greg Heffley is in big trouble. School property has been damaged and Greg is the prime suspect. But the crazy thing is, he's innocent! Or at least sort of. The authorities are closing in, but then a surprise blizzard hits and the Heffley family is trapped indoors. Greg knows that when the snow melts he's going to have to face the music but could any punishment be worse than being stuck inside with your family for the holidays?  (Easons €9.99)

Harry Potter From Page to Screen: The Complete Film-making Journey by Bob McCabe, Hardback  
From the acquisition of the film rights to the casting of Harry, Ron, and Hermione and the assembly of the creative team, Harry Potter: Page to Screen is a unique, behind-the-scenes look at the making of one of the most popular film series in cinema history, as told by the people who made the magic real. Harry Potter: Page to Screen traces the cinematic process of bringing J.K. Rowling's beloved books to big-screen life. (Easons €49.99)

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Money: Irish Budget 2012 The Cuts So Far..Simpified!

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Today, on budget day one, Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Brendan Howlin presented the Irish governments' plans to save 3.8bn - the fiscal adjustment needed for 2012.

This is the news so far...

The Public Service pay bill is to fall by €400m in 2012

Social Welfare payments remain unchanged

Child Benefit for first and second child remains unchanged

Changes to One-Parent Family Payment will save 20.7m

Jobseekers Benefit to be based on 5 day week

Back to school clothing allowance ended for 2/3 year olds

Extra charges on private treatment in public hospitals

Drug payment scheme monthly threshold up from €120 to €132

2% cut in Disability, Mental Health and Childrens Services

132.3% savings in Education

2% cut in Higher Education Funding

€250 increase in Third Level Student Contribution

Primary school transport charge to be doubled to €100

€19.2m in cuts to trainee and apprenticeship schemes

Reduced allowances and secretarial supports for former Taoisigh

Staff ceiling reduced of 103,800 employees to apply to HSE in 2012

€52.9m to reduction in Overseas Development Aid

€79m cut in the Garda Siochana

Overall Savings of €105m in Dept of Agriculture, Marine, Food

Overall Savings of €45m in Dept of Transport, Tourism, Sport

Overall Savings of €34m in Environment, Community, Local Govt

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Ireland: The A-Z Irish Glossary - 'U' is for Ulster

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'Ulster' and many more 'U' words from the North..

This is a word that means many different things to different people. Geographically and in it's simplest terms, it refers to the most Northern part of the island of Ireland, one of the four historical provinces (the other three being Connaught, Leinster and Munster). It also generally refers to the nine counties (Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan, Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Derry, and Tyrone) that were in that province.

However, the last six of these counties now constitute Northern Ireland, and Northern Ireland, because of this, is colloquially known as Ulster - which, by the way, is now divided politically in 26 districts rather than six counties! But wait, there’s more! The three Ulster counties remaining in the Republic of Ireland are collectively known as the Ulster Province. The following are but a few 'U' terms/organisations to come out of Northern Ireland...

UDA: Ulster Defence Association, a loyalist paramilitary organisation in the 6-Counties, synonymous with the UFF; worked largely in co-operation with undercover British forces.

UDP: Ulster Democratic Party, small unionist party with one or two elected councillors. Associated with the UDA/UFF.

UDR: Ulster Defence Regiment, Now renamed - a regiment of the British Army which operates in the 6 Counties. Amalgamated into the RIR.

UFF: Ulster Freedom Fighters, A loyalist paramilitary organisation. Synonymous with the UDA.

UKUP: United Kingdom Unionist Party, Small new unionist Party. Led by Bob McCartney.

Unionism: A Political philosophy supporting maintainence of British rule of the 6 Counties.

United Kingdom: Defined by British government as Britain and its offshore islands but also the 6 counties.

UUP: Ulster Unionist Party, largest unionist party. Led by David Trimble

UVF: Ulster Volunteer Force, Loyalist paramilitary organisation. Allied to the PUP.

Got it? There’ll be a test later.. yuy, yuy, yuy, yuy...

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Quote of the Week: Horace Bushnell

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"The more difficulties one has to encounter, within and without, the more significant and the higher in inspiration his life will be"

Horace Bushnell (American Clergyman & Theologian)

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Kids: Top 10 Christmas Toys 2011

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According to the Toy Show Experience that was held at the Convention Centre, Dublin, these are the Top 10 Christmas  toys on the Irish market...

1. Fijit Friends
(Mattel, Smyths €54.99)
These are funny interactive toys and robots aimed at the little girl market..

2. Transformers Optimus Prime (Hasbro, Smyths €67.99)
An '80s revival toy from the new Transformers movie franchise..

3. Lego Police Station
(Lego, Argos €71.89)
Aw the classic mini bricks - Lego will be around forever...

4. Monster High Dolls (Mattel, Argos €12.22-18.79)
Vampires and such have been all the rage in recent times, but it’s not just movies or TV that are cashing in on the fantasy. Mattel seems to have hit the nail on the head with their launch of Monster High Dolls.

5. Sylvanian Families (Flair, Smyths €18.99 for whole families but all accessories vary in price)
These world famous collectibles are still going and growing! Little girls will love to play with many different families and all houses, furniture and clothing accessories that go with them. Hours of playtime!

6. Let's Rock Elmo
(Hasbro, Smyths €59.99)
There was no Sesame Street toy released last Christmas, in fact it has been a couple of years since the popular, cuddly 'Tickle Me Elmo' toy so Hasbro are delighted to present this sweet musical little guy

7. Baby Annabell
(Zapf, Smyths €29.99 for doll but all accessories range in price)
Baby Annabell is just like a real baby with realistic features and she even reacts to your voice! When you talk to Baby Annabell she turns her head from left to right depending on where your voice is coming from.

8. Kidizoom Twist
(Vtech, Smyths €44.99)
Designed by Vtech, this kids camera is both great fun and a fantastic learning experience. Kida will be able to take great quality pictures and the camera also has its own games and voice recording mode. It also comes in pink and blue.

9. Bop-IT XT (Hasbro, Argos €26.47)
When you turn it on, this totally cool Bop It game calls out commands. It’s up to you to "pull it", "bop it", "twist it" or "flick it", "spin it", "shake it"! Play Bop It! XT in party mode or solo or you can even plug in your headphones to keep the game all to yourself. Get it right and you can keep going, but if you get the moves wrong, your turn is up. Great action toy!

10. MONOPOLY Electronic Banking: (Hasbro, Smyths €26.99)
Take the banker out of the board game and enjoy the next generation of Monopoly! Use debit cards instead of paper money. One swipe and your done! With an updated Monopoly board and new token designs including mobile phone, plane, F1 car, and roller blade. Suitable for ages 8+

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Showbiz: 'Fang-tastic' claims Dentist as he snaps up John Lennon's tooth

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A rotten tooth that once resided in the mouth of legend John Lennon has been sold at auction for £19,500!

A Canadian dentist bought the former Beatles' molar by telephone bid at an auction of rock memorabilia in the Northwest of England.

Michael Zuk, a 49-year old father of two from Alberta, said he was absolutely "buzzing" after his purchase and stayed up all night wondering how crazy the prices were going to go.

"It's one of those things where most people would say I'm crazy but I think it's fantastic". 

Yellowy-brown in colour and with a huge cavity, it was the star lot of the auction with a reserve price of £10,000. Zuk said he paid "a little over" his planned limit. John Lennon gave the tooth to his housekeeper Dorothy Jarlett between 1964 and 1968 lived in Weybridge, Surrey. She later moved to Canada where she married and had kept it with her ever since.

A massive Beatles fan, Zuk exclaimed that it was his first memorabilia purchase and that it would now take pride of place among a collection of dinosaur teeth and other interesting fangs!
Mr Zuk, author of Confessions Of A Former Cosmetic Dentist explained that it is his first human tooth in the collection and he also hopes to extract DNA evidence. "I have full confidence but obviously there will be people who are suspicious that this is not the real tooth and it would be good to do a definitive scientific investigation to confirm it" he explained.

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Television: X Factor's Janet Devlin changes her tune

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Every week after she performed on the X Factor, Janet Devlin had a look on her face that alternated from distress to petrification to infuriation. I believe she was very nervous backstage the majority of the time and it wasn't easy, and perhaps being so young I can't be too critical, but except for her questionable silent annoyance, quite frankly she had reason to be distressed, petrified and infuriated - she was up against stiff competition.

After being voted out on Sunday night, it comes as no surprise to me that Janet Devlin has now turned on the show's producers and claimed that they turned her into a karaoke singer every saturday night. At last, it explains the look of infuriation or silent annoyance..

The seventeen-year-old lost out to fellow singer Misha B the other night, but said she could have gone further if she'd have been a 'puppet' and done exactly what she was told.

She lashed out on the Lorraine (Kelly) show on Monday morning telling the chat show host: "To me the sad thing about X Factor - and it's brought me down a lot - is the fact that I've just been covering other people's songs".

Ok has this girl just arrived into town on a pick up truck with her guitar, country denims and big hair?
Has she not SEEN the X Factor television show before she decided to enter the X Factor competition??

Aww, diddums. If she honestly thought she was going on stage every night to strum her guitar and sing her own tunes, well then she's kind of missing the point of what the whole X Factor show and machine is really all about. Maybe Britain's Got Talent would have suited her best, huh?

She went on: 'From the start of the show I wanted to be myself and I didn't really care, in the sense that I just did what was me. I could have been a puppet and done a lot better but why would I do that?' If the show was such a threat to her own identity or the 'real her', well then  why didn't she bow out earlier and not stay on the showbiz train ?! Actually, stupid question, don't answer that.

However, it was no surprise to most of us that she got the boot this week (in fact I thought she would have gone last week) considering she forgot the lyrics to her first song on saturday and having made the same mistake the week previously. While singing Hanson's hit MMMBop in the 'Guilty Pleasures' round, she came in too early then missed singing a whole verse. Surely you couldn't forget your guilty pleasure song, presumably something you quite like to sing alot ?? And for pop's sake it's a Hanson song - technically, all their songs are earworms!

Although the redhead did perform well in the sing-off - tapping into the innocence of her very first audition with a rendition of Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol, it was clear who was safe after Misha B belted out a hit from the Fame soundtrack, nailing her version of Out Here On My Own by Irene Cara.

It seems throughout the competition Janet Devlin was seen to be a 'talk-singer' or possess a folk sound, a genre I myself enjoy at times. She sang into every word separately alright and her voice was of deep emotional quality but she never displayed much range. The screeching echo at the end of every line she bellowed like she was in great banshee turmoil also became a bit much. (I must state here I ain't no soprano myself but then again I don't claim to be..!!)

My guess that she was the passive aggressive sort turns out to be true as her first interview on live television post X Factor goes to show. I am not sad that your gone Janet, sorry but I don't believe you have what it takes to be a big star and I do believe you were something of a one trick pony - you could prove me wrong of course? But for now, good luck with the yawning of the haunting ballads, in fact that should be your first album name: 'Yawning of the Haunting Ballads". Track one: "I just don't know what happened noooyyyyyyy"...

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