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Vancouver Sun
3 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Vancouver Sun
The Bookless Club: What are your Canada Day or summer rituals?
Long weekend comin' up. You're gonna need limes. And don't forget to put some tall glasses in the freezer. You see, it's not officially summer until someone breaks out the gin and tonics. A cold beer — and when I say cold, I mean arctic — makes a suitable alternative, but it's got to be icy cold. Frosty glasses help. These drinks might be just ceremonial libations, but they're required. It's got to be something you only have in the summertime. You might only have one G&T this year, so make it perfectly: thick wheels of lime, frosty glasses, and not the tonic left over from before the pandemic. If you're off booze, consider a Rose's Lime Cordial — this chartreuse sparkler pinch hits for G&T quite nicely. Watermelons are the seasonal equivalent of the Halloween pumpkin, so you're going to need one of those. Yes, they make a big mess, but it'll probably be the only watermelon you lug home this year. There's a whole science of reading watermelon rinds — do your homework so that you don't accidentally bring home a big pink ball of styrofoam. Watermelon is best served chilled, so before you head to the grocery store, evacuate an entire shelf of the fridge to make space for this seasonal behemoth. Chunk it up for a feta, mint and watermelon salad or just slice it in wedges. Here's a pro tip: Put it on a rimmed baking sheet before you start hacking at it. A daily roundup of Opinion pieces from the Sun and beyond. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Informed Opinion will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. The summer sky is part of the program. You're going to need to recline and regard the firmament. An Adirondack chair will do, but a hammock is next level. The important thing is that you get on your back and stop for a moment to consider your total and utter insignificance. If it's daytime, there are clouds to identify or anthropomorphize or zoomorphize. Yes, that one is, indeed, a cumulonimbus. Yes, that one does look like Bernie Sanders. A pod of dolphins? Yes, I see it, too. An ice cream cone is a sacrament of the season. I can say with certainty that the only ice cream cones I have eaten in my adult life are in the months of July or August. Ice cream beguiles in other seasons, but never in a cone — that's a feature of summer. These days, corn on the cob gets some fancy treatment. It used to be just boiled and buttered. These days you should expect the unexpected, like parmesan, chilli flakes or crumbled bacon. But if the corn is good — local and freshly picked — it really only requires a little heating to make it delectable. Here's a little performance enhancing tip for your corn: Try a little honey mixed in with the butter. You'll thank me later. In observance of Canada Day, you can count on some sort of red-and-white dessert being offered. Strawberries adorning a red velvet cake festooned with cream cheese icing, perhaps? Our tradition is a Devonshire strawberry tart. A friend tells me that he must — simply must — go fishing each summer. It's how he sets his annual personal odometer. Many's the trip where he's come home empty handed, but that's not the point. Without that fishing trip, the year would blend into the flanking years. If he's been lucky, there will be a fish dinner, and the menu never varies: baked potatoes, roasted zucchini, tomato, mushroom kabobs, and his salmon lashed with mayonnaise and sliced lemons. If this meal takes place and the weather is fine, well, that's summer fait accompli. Done like dinner! We all have our summer observances. They can be as small as having coffee outdoors or finding time to read a book on a park bench. Maybe you always catch a Canadians baseball game? Or visit the PNE? The important thing is not to let these glory days slip by unobserved. Happy Canada Day! Jane Macdougall is a freelance writer and former National Post columnist who lives in Vancouver. She writes The Bookless Club every Saturday online and in The Vancouver Sun. For more of what Jane's up to, check out her website, Question: What are your Canada Day or summer rituals? Send your answers by email text, not an attachment, in 100 words or less, along with your full name to Jane at thebooklessclub@ . We will print some next week in this space. Question: Has geopolitical conflict directly affected your life? • If this is the first time you are noticing that people are distressed about the Middle East, you have been living under a rock. The Jewish community has been distressed for the last 20 months. Our synagogues have been vandalized. Our families in Israel have been living in bomb shelters, and those of us with family in Israel whose nieces and nephews are serving live on pins and needles. Iran and its proxies (Hamas, Hezbollah, Houthis) are trying to kill everyone who believes in freedom. The Iranian people deserve to be free from this. But war is terrible, Iran is just now feeling it, but the rest of us have been on edge since Oct. 7, 2023. Mentioning both sides in your column would have been better. Am Yisrael Chai! Sue Hector • A tragic situation for your hairdresser, Vicky, and for all Iranians. A big subject, Jane, with no real solution. All Gulf countries (Saudi, Kuwait, UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman) have incredible wealth, and there are U.S. and U.K. military bases in these countries. Iran, in theory, is a threat to all of those strategic interests. How can there be any compromise? The U.S. and Israel knew that the bombing would bring 'collateral damage'. There are all kinds of negotiations going on, but Israel and the U.S. will not stop their current attacks on Iran until they are certain that all nuclear sites are disabled. Paul Rhodes • You bet it has affected our life. As I write this, our daughter, Wendy, and our six-year-old grandson are hunkered down in Doha, Qatar with Iranian missiles exploding overhead. We are frantic to get them back here. George Kristensen • We left Chile in the 1970s to escape the political upheaval and violence there. If you've ever lived through that sort of pervasive fear, you never forget the feeling. Name withheld • My family has lived through kidnappings and politically motivated killings. It can and does happen anywhere and everywhere — Argentina, Lebanon, China. One must stay ever vigilant and adhere to the rule of law if one wishes to live free. Name withheld
Scottish Sun
4 days ago
- Business
- Scottish Sun
Gemma Atkinson turns to crowdfunding to raise £500k to launch her beauty brand, but angry trolls rage she can ‘do one'
GEMMA Atkinson has sparked controversy after turning to crowdfunding to raise £500,000 to launch her own beauty brand. The actress has already attracted an impressive social media following for her skincare company Gem & Tonic, which aims to provide products to "simplify your beauty regime". 5 Gemma Atkinson has sparked controversy after turning to crowdfunding to raise £500k to officially launch her beauty brand Gem & Tonic Credit: Instagram/glouiseatkinson 5 The fundraising effort has already raised nearly £50,000, but investing isn't without risk, which a warning on the Crowdcube page stresses Credit: crowdcube/gemandtonic 5 She shared a look into the company's successes to date, but trolls weren't impressed Credit: Instagram/glouiseatkinson "Every single product combines scientifically-proven ingredients with mineral rich gemstones," she said. As she prepares to "officially launch" the brand in September 2025, Gemma has decided to try and raise funds through Crowdcube - which asks people to "invest in Europe's best startups". On the Crowdcube page, which has already raised £48,296 from 354 different investors, Gemma says: "We're now looking to raise £500,000 to officially launch in September 2025 to continue the movement and the community we've already started. "If you're looking to invest in a brand with a real community in real demand, you've found yourself a real good gem." The page also highlights some of the company's successes to date, including the fact they made £127,000 in pre-order sales in just three weeks. The equity investment has a share price of 90p and a pre-money valuation of £2.25 million. "The Company had already raised £250,000 prior to the Crowdcube raise," the page reads. "For the avoidance of doubt, this has been included in the pre-money valuation displayed in the pitch." And for those investing in the business, there are various 'rewards' for doing so - all of which start from an investment of £50. Investing £50 will get you a signed thank you card from Gemma, while for £25,000 you'll get to "meet Gemma and have lunch with the G&T team", as well as an investor-only lifetime discount of 15%, a product bundle, an invite to the press launch, lifetime early access to new products and Gemma's signed thank you note. Gemma Atkinson reveals her hit CBeebies show has been AXED after just one series However there's also a warning at the top of the Crowdcube page, which reads: "Don't invest unless you're prepared to lose all the money you invest. "This is a high-risk investment and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong." News of Gemma's crowdfunding efforts quickly made its way onto social media, with trolls using the comments section of the videos to have their say on the controversial move. "Why hasn't she used her own money?" one wrote. "I don't want to Invest of your not engaged to the hilt in every financial way." "Crowd funding to make herself rich," another added. What is crowdfunding? Crowdfunding is a popular choice for startups trying to raise money, typically via the internet. It's described as an alternative way to fund projects "without standard financial intermediaries". There are four different ways of crowdfunding: rewards-based, equity-based, debt-based and donation-based. Judging by Gemma's Crowdcube page, it seems she has adopted a reward-based approach to the funding attempt, with investors offered perks in exchange for their financial support. "Ok send me money and I'll start a business!" "So she wants people to help her… doesn't she know about the cost of living crisis us normal people are dealing with?" a third commented. "Over 1/2 mil in her bank - usual rich get richer!" someone else sighed. "Crowd funding? Gemma can do one," another raged. "Bloody hell she has more than most for money!" someone else said. And as another labelled it ridiculous, someone else agreed, writing: "Clearly not confident in her own idea to fully invest herself, putting up her property as collateral. "Guaranteed to fail." "She's got a nerve!" another commented. However, there were those in the comments who came to Gemma's defense. Crowdfunding to make herself rich! Social media commenter "She isn't making you invest!" one wrote. "I say fair play to her and wish her well." "Think she's asking for £10 as a minimum, which is reasonable," another added. "She's kept her community involved from the get go - naming, scents etc so I don't see the issue." "Shame to see so many women tearing other women down regardless of their status or financial situation!!" a third sighed. "So much hate in the world these days already." 5 Some angry commenters even told Gemma to "do one" after hearing about her crowdfunding efforts Credit: Instagram/glouiseatkinson
Metro
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
10 of London's best rooftop bars for summer
It sure is hot here in the UK and down south the heatwave is sizzling in London. But there's nothing quite like a tipple in the summer sun, so if you're in search of somewhere with stellar views and a light breeze, a rooftop bar is the way to go. Whether you want to gaze out toward The Shard, indulge in some delicious food, or have a boogie while the DJ plays – we think we've got something for everyone. So, if you're in need of some inspiration for your next night out, Metro has 10 picks of the city's best rooftop venues… When you're 11 floors up at this rooftop bar with views of the Gherkin and St Pauls, there are few views that rival it. The award-winning Florattica is known for its iconic flower ceiling, al fresco dining and a DJ that brings the coolest vibes – it's a spot you don't want to miss. Be sure to try some of its experimental cocktails, and line your stomach with a selection of small plates and fresh pasta. Location: Level 11, Canopy by Hilton London City, 11-15 Minories, EC3N 1AX Tube: Aldgate (Circle or Metropolitan lines) If you're a sucker for Italian-ish drinks, small dishes and stunning views then Forza Wine is another great find. Yes, there's wine, but the cocktail menu is another great selling point, with a rhubarb manhattan, apple tom collins and even a frozen cucumber margarita. There's two locations but Peckham really takes the cake. Location: The Rooftop, 133A Rye Lane, London, SE15 4BQ Train: Peckham Rye (connects to Jubilee and Northern Lines) You'll get some pretty unparalleled views of the skyline at this iconic venue, and although it's located mainly indoors it'll feel as though you're out in the open thanks to the surrounding greenery and huge picture windows. There are two bars to choose from – Sky Pod and City Garden – where you can sip your cocktail or G&T while watching the sunset, as well as three restaurants within the building. It's a must-visit, although be aware it doesn't come cheap – cocktails start at around £15, while the cheapest glass of wine will set you back a tenner. Location: Rooftop, Mercury House, 109-117 Waterloo Road London, SE1 8UL Tube: Waterloo (Northern, Bakerloo and Jubilee Lines) Moving further west, you can soak up the sunshine and the views at the Paddington-based Pergola – which has the feel of a beach venue with its rattan fixtures and fittings and palm trees dotted around. As well as cocktails you can also make the most of street food vendors serving up fried chicken, burgers and Japanese dishes (at time of writing: the menu changes from time to time). There's also a bottomless brunch on Sundays, and a DJ at weekends spinning timeless classics. You can book in advance if visiting in a group but there's space for walk-ins too. Location: 5 Kingdom St, London W2 6PY Tube: Paddington (Bakerloo, Hammersmith and City, Circle, District and Elizabeth Lines) Having opened in 2023, this rooftop gem has already made an impression, becoming very popular on TikTok. Offering stunning vistas of the iconic London skyline and lounge tables to get comfy on, it's the perfect place to unwind. Offering a unique blend of Japanese and Mexican food including sushi andtacos, you can indulge in delicious light but tasty bites. There's also Sunday sessions from 1pm to 9pm which offer DJ sets as you watch the sun go down. Location: 9th Floor, 100 Liverpool Street, London, EC2M 2AT Tube: Liverpool Street (Elizabeth, Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines) In the heart of Soho you can indulge in a Turkish-inspired menu and divine cocktails at Yasmin. You can use this as a go-to spot for date nights, a catch up with friends or even private dining, six floors up. The best bites on offer are the sumac duck, chicken shish and the whipped sheep's cheese and flatbread. Location: 1 Warwick St, London W1B 5LR Tube: Piccadilly Circus (Piccadilly line and the Bakerloo line) For those who like the finer things in life, venture to Seabird which offers panoramic views at 14 floors up, and oysters. At the top of The Hoxton you can indulge in some sangria, which is perfect for the sorching summer, or even frozen mojitos. It even has a late-night residency with Ronnie Scott offering classic jazz and bespoke martinis. Location: 40 Blackfriars Road, London, United Kingdom SE1 8PB Tube: Southwark (Jubilee line) If you prefer to glance out at Tower Bridge then head 12 floors up to Savage Garden. Indulge in live music, good wine and very funky cocktails – but it is on the pricier side. Perched on top of the Double Tree by Hilton it's elegant and chic, but it gets very busy so you'll probably want to book in advance. Location: Savage Garden, 7, Pepys Street, EC3N 4AF Tube: Tower Hill (Circle and District lines) Now hear us out on this one because it's atop the John Lewis flagship store, but it's a true find. Offering a stunning rooftop escape with breathtaking city views, private greenhouses, and an elegant open-air terrace, it's great for a laid back afternoon with friends. The menu features fruit-forward brambles; Kumquat Old Fashioned; and a Calamansi Margarita with a spiced ancho chili rim. As the sun sets, live DJ sets on Friday and Saturday nights set the mood, making 1864 the ultimate spot for an elevated rooftop experience in the heart of London. Location: Sixth floor, 300 Oxford St, London W1C 1DX Tube: Oxford Circus and Bond Street (Bakerloo, Central, and Victoria lines and Jubilee and Elizabeth lines) Located on the 10th floor of the ME London hotel, Radio Rooftop not only offers a superb cocktail list, but also a 360-degree views that shows off the capital's skyline and the River Thames. More Trending It's a fabulous spot to chill out with a drink, as well as enjoy dishes from the seasonal menu – but be aware that it doesn't come cheap. A glass of champagne will set you back around £16, while a cocktail comes in at around £19. View More » Location: ME London, 336-337 Strand, London WC2R 1HA Tube: Covent Garden (Piccadilly line)/Temple (Circle and District line) Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: 'We need more spaces in London to nurture creativity' – how this venue is paving the way MORE: This is the best London neighbourhood to be LGBTQ+ in 2025 MORE: Widow fined more than £1,000 by parking wardens after council delays Blue Badge renewal Your free newsletter guide to the best London has on offer, from drinks deals to restaurant reviews.
Yahoo
20-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
York Gin reports record sales of its no-alcohol alternative as temperatures soar!
York Gin says it is working round the clock to keep up with demand for zero-alcohol G&Ts during the heatwave. The company reports record demand for its gin alternative York Zero as drinkers look for a booze-free G&T. Health experts are advising people to stay hydrated during the heatwave by drinking more water and soft drinks than normal. York Gin Director Natalie Hall said: 'We've been up to our ears bottling York Zero over the last few days as the mercury has been rising. Thankfully we've got a good supply - so we can keep up with demand. RECOMMENDED READING: York Drinks and Bax Botanics launch alcohol-free York Zero York Gin finalist for Deliciously Yorkshire Taste Award York Gin launches Rutterkin Rum in honour of its emblem 'From our perspective, it looks like people are taking the official advice to stay hydrated.' Hotspots in York like The Star Inn The City include the booze-free gin on their cocktail menu. Their terrace overlooking the River Ouse gets packed when the sun comes out, she added. The DrinkAware website says: 'Alcohol makes you sweat more, because it interferes with your body's ability to control its own temperature. Combined with the fact that alcohol makes you pee more, you can lose more fluid than you take in and become dehydrated unless you replace that lost fluid by drinking extra water.'
The Citizen
14-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Citizen
Celebrate World Gin Day with this peach and berry gin fizz cocktail
In honour of World Gin Day, let's raise a glass to one of the world's most storied spirits – gin. From its humble beginnings as a medicinal elixir in 17th-century Holland to becoming the quintessential South African spirit, gin has a rich history steeped in botanicals and flavour. Originally created as a juniper-infused remedy, it didn't take long for gin to evolve into a beloved social beverage, making its way into iconic cocktails like the classic G&T and the sophisticated martini. Whether you're a gin aficionado or just looking for a fresh sipper, this cocktail is a perfect way to toast the occasion. Ingredients 50ml gin (your choice of botanical gin) 25ml peach schnapps Fresh peaches, sliced (1 peach, thinly sliced) Mixed fresh berries (raspberries, blueberries, and red currants) 15ml freshly squeezed lemon juice 15ml simple syrup (optional for extra sweetness) 150ml sparkling water or soda water Ice cubes Rosemary sprig (for garnish) Method Fill a highball glass with ice cubes and a mix of fresh berries. Add a few thin slices of fresh peach. In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, peach schnapps, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Add a handful of ice cubes and shake well for about 10 seconds until chilled. Strain the gin mixture over the ice and fruit in the glass. Top with sparkling water or soda water, giving it a light, fizzy finish. Gently stir once to combine, then garnish with a fresh sprig of rosemary.
