A stand-up comedian proposed to his girlfriend during a live performance, creating a memorable moment for both the couple and the audience. On a Saturday night in July 2023, in a small comedy club in Ireland, the comedian transformed his act into a heartfelt proposal, surprising his long-time girlfriend, Una.

The performer, who prefers to remain anonymous, has been in a relationship with Una for eight years. Throughout this time, she has been a steadfast supporter, attending his shows and cheering louder than anyone else, even after hearing many of the same jokes repeatedly. Recognizing her unwavering support, he devised a plan to propose that would reflect their unique bond.

After discussing his idea with Cornelius Patrick O’Sullivan, the owner of their local comedy venue, the comedian arranged to headline a show that summer. His plan was simple yet effective: entertain the audience, record the performance, and end the night by asking Una to marry him in front of a crowd of 80 people.

As the show concluded, he delivered a final joke about his reluctance to propose, cleverly setting the stage for the big moment. He invited Una to join him on stage for a photograph, allowing the audience to capture the moment as their phone cameras illuminated the room. In a dramatic turn, he dropped to one knee and presented her with an engagement ring, asking, “Una, will you marry me?”

In a response that caught everyone off guard, Una initially told him to “F**k off.” This phrase, common in Ireland, can convey surprise or disbelief. After realizing the sincerity behind his proposal, she quickly changed her tone and accepted, leading to cheers and applause from the audience.

The couple shared a moment of joy that resonated throughout the venue. For the first time, Una received the spotlight, basking in the love and excitement of the crowd. Reflecting on the experience, the comedian expressed no regrets about his decision, stating that it was a perfect proposal, although he humorously wished for a few more laughs from his material.

Public proposals can elicit mixed reactions, but for this couple, it proved to be a delightful experience. The comedian noted that if a partner prioritizes the method of the proposal over the commitment itself, it might indicate deeper issues in the relationship. He emphasized that both he and Una truly enjoyed the moment, and now they are eagerly planning their upcoming wedding.

While public proposals may not be suited for everyone, this unique approach captured the essence of their relationship and allowed them to share a special memory with a supportive audience. As they embark on the next chapter of their lives together, the couple looks forward to the challenges and joys of wedding planning.

As the summer holiday season unfolds, Portugal remains a prominent destination for travelers, particularly those from Ireland. However, tourists planning to visit the Algarve resort of Albufeira must navigate new regulations that could impact their holiday experience. A strict code of conduct was implemented on June 24, 2023, aiming to address what local officials describe as “excessive behaviour” in public areas.

The new regulations are part of a broader initiative to enhance Albufeira’s reputation, addressing long-standing complaints from residents regarding disruptive behaviour by tourists. Under this code, individuals found wearing bikinis or swimwear outside designated beach or pool areas may incur fines ranging from €300 to €1,500. Additionally, consuming alcohol in public spaces, as well as public urination or defecation, falls under the same penalty range.

More serious infractions, which include engaging in nude or sexual acts in public, attract even steeper fines, reaching up to €1,800. Other prohibited behaviours, such as wild camping or spitting in public, will result in fines between €150 and €750.

To assist visitors in adapting to these changes, Albufeira’s local council plans to install informative signage throughout the area. This will outline the new rules and the consequences for violations. There will also be a grace period during which tourists who breach the regulations will receive warnings instead of immediate fines.

José Carlos Rolo, the mayor of Albufeira, emphasized the need for a shift in mindset among visitors. In a statement to the Lusa news agency, he remarked, “People have to start changing their mindset and behaviour. Our goal is to prevent these issues and not have to act after they have happened.” He has urged local businesses and nightlife establishments to help disseminate information about the new rules to ensure tourists are adequately informed during their stay.

For Irish tourists considering a trip to Portugal this summer, it is crucial to be aware of these new regulations. What may have been perceived as acceptable holiday behaviour in the past could now result in significant fines.

A fundraiser has been initiated to support Jeorgia McEvoy, a 29-year-old woman from Dublin who suffered a severe stroke while pregnant. In January 2023, Jeorgia experienced a brain bleed at 34 weeks into her pregnancy, which precipitated an emergency C-section to save her baby. Following her stroke, she underwent extensive medical procedures, including brain surgery and a tracheostomy, and remained in a coma for six weeks.

Despite the significant challenges, both Jeorgia and her newborn son, Lake, survived. However, Jeorgia continues to face life-altering injuries and remains hospitalized, necessitating ongoing care and support. She also has a two-year-old daughter named Skye who, along with Lake, is currently being cared for by her mother and siblings.

In efforts to alleviate the financial strain on her family, Katie Brady, a family friend, is coordinating the fundraising campaign on GoFundMe. The campaign has set a target of €35,000 to help cover living expenses, childcare, and Jeorgia’s daily needs as she recovers. Brady emphasized the emotional and financial toll on the family, stating that Jeorgia’s mother, Anita McEvoy, is currently out of work and unsure when she will return.

In a heartfelt message on the campaign page, Brady expressed the gravity of Jeorgia’s situation: “As you can imagine, this is a very difficult time for the family. Jeorgia’s road to recovery is long, and any donations will go towards living expenses, care for her children, and Jeorgia’s daily needs. She will also need adaptations to her home when she finally returns, where she belongs – with her family.”

Since its launch on July 11, 2023, the fundraiser has received over 170 donations, demonstrating the community’s support for Jeorgia and her family. Brady added, “Anyone who knows Jeorgia will know she lived for her baby Skye and was eagerly looking forward to the arrival of her baby boy. For it to end up this way is absolutely devastating.”

Jeorgia has been described by her loved ones as a loving and humorous person who deserves a chance to recover and reunite with her children. The call for donations, whether large or small, aims to provide both financial relief and emotional support during this incredibly challenging time.

Brady concluded with a message of hope: “Let’s help Jeorgia and her family during this incredibly hard time. Any donation, big or small, even just a share or a prayer for Jeorgia to be well again and reunited with her babies and family, will make a difference. Let’s do this for her future!”

Irish broadcaster Ryan Tubridy recently attended the Wimbledon tennis championships in London, experiencing the event in sweltering temperatures of 30 degrees Celsius. Despite his fair complexion and the heat, Tubridy relished the opportunity to watch the high-stakes matches on the iconic Centre Court, marking another chapter in his summer adventures.

Excitement at Wimbledon

Tubridy has fond memories of Wimbledon, having watched the tournament since childhood. He recalls the era of tennis legends such as John McEnroe and Boris Becker, contrasting it with today’s players. This year, he witnessed a thrilling semi-final between Aryna Sabalenka, the world number one from Belarus, and the USA’s Amanda Anisimova, who was seeded 13th.

The match, described by Tubridy as reminiscent of “Rocky IV,” ended with Anisimova emerging victorious in a nail-biting three-set showdown. As he enjoyed a refreshing Pimm’s to cope with the heat, Tubridy engaged with fellow attendees and took in the vibrant atmosphere surrounding the matches.

During a stroll around the grounds, Tubridy received a message from a follower in Dublin, mentioning that the general manager of the Wimbledon grounds, John Lawler, hails from Malahide, Ireland. A chance encounter soon followed when Lawler approached Tubridy, leading to a warm conversation about mutual acquaintances.

Cultural Connections and Cinematic Escapes

Later in the day, Tubridy enjoyed time with friends, including Peter Fleming, a former doubles partner of McEnroe who won Wimbledon four times. Their discussions covered a range of topics, from tennis history to current events. Tubridy also received a copy of Conor Niland‘s book, “The Racket,” which he looks forward to reading.

As the heatwave continued, Tubridy sought refuge in London’s cinemas, where he caught the latest blockbuster, “Jurassic World Rebirth.” Although he had been indifferent to the franchise in the past, he found the film’s visual effects captivating and the experience reminiscent of his childhood cinema visits. Tubridy emphasized that some movies are best enjoyed on the big screen, where the full impact of the film can be appreciated.

In a week filled with memorable encounters and experiences, Tubridy’s adventures in London highlight the joys of summer, cultural connections, and the simple pleasures of cinema. As he continues his journey, he remains a vibrant ambassador of Irish culture in the heart of England.