BMB host Maria Harte cookery demo for local charities

Ballinafid Multyfarnham Bunbrosna Active notes

On Sunday a robust crowd were treated to a delightful and tantalising demonstration of cooking in Multyfarnham Community Centre, by local celebrity chef Maria Harte.

It was no ordinary event, because as well as sharing an abundance of handy recipes, Maria also gave those attending no waste, money saving ideas to incorporate into their kitchen craft. It’s amazing what you can put into a stock pot, instead of just disposing. Scallion roots in a mug of water and voilà! More scallions.

Marie’s discourse is littered with memorable moments, such as, "we eat with our eyes", "go to the trouble for yourself, you’re worth it", and "crack your eggs on a flat surface" (to avoid tiny shards of shell getting into your mix).

We learned that if the recipe calls for anchovies, then use anchovies. You can’t replicate the flavours. Don’t be shy about getting your hands in and combining ingredients, such as plum tomatoes. Cooking is a fun activity, not a domestic chore, so make it easier, and have a supply of frozen vegetables.

Maria had sourced several excellent raffle prizes and special thanks. Goes to Red Earth, Bracken’s Butchers, And Heavin’s Hardware and others for sponsorship of prizes, Congratulations to the winners. As the proceeds of the event will be donated to local charities, kindly donated her time and expertise. Thanks to the Flood and Harte families.

BMB AGM

Taking care of business is always important and the hallmark of a well run organisation. Last Thursday, more than 50 BMB Active members attended the annual AGM, chaired by Joe Scally, who recapped the previous year’s highlights. Joe paid tribute to the outgoing treasurer Theresa Hynes and welcomed Eilish Orme to the position, and Teresa Bourke as assistance treasurer. Mary Daly, Eddie Newman, and Claire Mulligan will review the constitution of BMB Active.

Marian Mooney drew attention to the Code of Conduct. A coffee morning is planned for new members to acquaint them with the full range of activities and events offered by BMB Active.

Pub quiz

Fun pub quiz with BMB Active, for St Valentines Day, in Murtagh’s Pub, Multyfarnham on Thursday February 13 at 4pm. Come along and bring a pal.

Bowls

If you have not yet experienced the fun of bowls, come along to Multyfarnham Community Centre for a free session on Tuesday, February 4 at 5.30pm. Beginners and newcomers are welcome.

Tour Hugh Lane Gallery

On Friday February 14, the Culture Vultures, a group who enjoy arts and culture, plan traveling by bus or train to Dublin, to visit the Hugh Lane Gallery for a guided tour. The visit includes the Harry Clarke exhibition. While there is free admission to the Hugh Lane Gallery, it is suggested that you book your own tickets in advance. Please confirm your availability with Mary on 087 9572472.

Tai Chi Classes

Coming soon to Multyfarnham Community Centre; if this is the new challenge you are looking for, please express your interest in Tai Chi by a text to Marian on 0871723256 to register for further information.

Storm Éowyn

Many BMB Active members and friends were adversely affected by the dramatic damage and outages of the storm. Mar Hoctor, midlands community welfare officer, attended Multyfarnham Community Centre.

If you have experienced hardships, you can apply on a HAS1 for recompense of, for instance, food wasted from freezers, damage to personal property, clothing. It’s not means tested. Forms available at Intreo Centres and via email cwsmullingarwelfare.ie or phone 0818405060.

Imbolg Sona Duit!

Imbolg is one of the 4 Gaelic Festivals, including Bealtaine, Lúnasa agus Samhain. Tá an t-Earrach anseo buíhas le Bríd.