Mature Living Magazine April 2013

PROMOTING A HEALTHY & POSITIVE LIFESTYLE April 2013

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE OLDER, BOLDER INDIVIDUAL

Eat well to beat arthritis

Dates for dog lovers

Kelly’s of Castlebar

Sports for baby boomers

Third Generation Hairdressers

• SLIGO • MAYO • GALWAY • LEITRIM • ROSCOMMON

Contents

www.matureliving.ie

April 2013

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W

ELL, April has arrived and let’s hope the artic weather is now behind us. To bring much-needed warmth we are happy to announce that it’s countdown time to our Mature Living 50+ Lifestyle Show and Exhibition in the Clarion Hotel, Sligo on 10th and 11th May. To ensure your place at the Exhibition you can book on-line now at www.maturelivingexpo.ie.

Indeed, it promises to be a weekend to remember with top exhibitors, events, sideshows and top-class entertainment. Just turn to page 4 and 5 for fuller details on what promises to be the Exhibition of the Year in the North-west. The weekend will also provide an opportunity for Active Retirement groups and others to experience some of the sights and delights of Sligo and the north-west, particularly at the start of the Summer season.

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In this issue we are happy to profile Maire Kelly-Moore, proprietor of the long-established Kelly’s Hair and Beauty Salon in Castlebar. Apart from her business expertise Maire is renowned for her community involvement and her work with various charities. The salon itself has been the recipient of many top awards over the years and was recently recognised as a Bord Failte salon, credited with bringing people to the county’s capital town.

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Elsewhere in this issue we deal with many topics of interest to those wishing to remain healthy and vibrant while aging.

Many readers may find the article which highlights research indicating coffee drinkers have a lesser chance of getting oral cancer. We highlight seven common foods which will help you remain healthier as you age. We also focus on oral health and how it can benefit your general health and well-being. For those of us having to care for older people Home Instead outlines some of the concerns being raised about malnutrition in older people.

An usual issue, and one which many may not have thought of, is the possible benefits of bringing along pets when dating. We offer some timely advice on money management, to ensure you don’t end up like Emmerdale’s Edna Birch. There are many other articles and news items of interest in this edition.

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It is, indeed, heartening to see the growth in demand for the Mature Living magazine, sometimes from far-flung places. We also regret that we seem to run out of copies each month.

However, to ensure your copy why not take out a subscription (12 issues) by filling in the subscription form to be found in this issue or simply by contacting our offices in Sligo or Ballina.

Our next issues will be available early in May, in good time for the exhibition, so the deadline for copy for the next issue will be 26th April, 2013.

Seamus Casey - Editor Editor: Seamus Casey seamus@matureliving.ie Advertising: Lisa Gilmartin lisa@matureliving.ie Production & Design: Stephen Finney steve@matureliving.ie

Mature Living 50+ Lifestyle Show at the Clarion Hotel News One-on-One with Máire Kelly Competition Why oral health is important for your body’s health Malnutrition in Older People: Cause for Concern Avalon Knitters become Active during Age Action Week The Benefits of Aloe Vera The Bands of our Showband Era Take the troubles away from adventure travelling Food and Drink Dates for dog lovers Managing your money – don't end up like Emmerdale's Edna Birch Keep young & beautiful What is constipation?

Springtime car care Hotel Directory Spot the Ball Yeats Antiques Services Directory Dating

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6 10 12 14

15 16

19 24 26 28 30 31

32 34 39 40 42 43 44 47

Published by: IBS Publishing Riverview House, Barrett Street, Ballina, Co. Mayo and Office 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo.

Tel/Fax: 071-9154538 / 096-77743 Web: www.matureliving.ie • Email: info@matureliving.ie

The information in Mature Living is carefully researched and believed to be accurate, but the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors or omissions. Statements or opinions expressed herein are not necessary those of the editor or publisher. Advertisements within the publication are not endorsed by the publisher. Neither are any claims made within the advertisements. Before consuming any products mentioned in the publication readers are advised to consult with their general practitioner or equivalent professional for opinion or advice.

Mature Living Exhibition

Sligo gearing up for the Exhibition of the year

“The Mature Living Show is a dynamic event for people who want to make the most out of life”

M

ature Living Magazine is pleased to announce that the Mature Living Ultimate Lifestyle Show will be held on Friday 10th & Saturday 11th May at The Clarion Hotel in Sligo. Doors will open from 11am.

Having fun, sharing time with people you enjoy, surrounding yourself with things you like, are just some of the fundamentals of living a happy and fulfilling life. As a visitor to the Mature Living Exhibition, it will encompass all of these highlights and feature many more.

Visitors will be treated to a full array of shopping opportunities, interactive exhibits, main stage entertainment, informative presentations and a fun inexpensive day out with family and friends. This

Register online before April 25th to receive free entry

show promotes the richness of celebrating life as a mature person and is a combination of Lifestyle Shows, Health & Wellness Expos, Seniors Fairs, Better Living and more...all under one roof!

There will be exhibitors of all kinds on the days offering the older generation the perfect chance to discover all the latest products and services targeted directly to their age group. Unsurprisingly, the event is aimed at those over the age of 50 and offers a huge range of entertainment, including a fashion show starring “real” women, a garden showcase with experts answering questions, cookery demonstrations and craft sessions.

For the active visitor there are also classes such as yoga and tai chi to partake in.

Such a large event is of course sure to attract a host of exhibitors with more than 60 display stands and various seminars.

Baby Boomers & Seniors will discover this event has a great deal to offer! Helping them plan for tomorrow while enjoying today. See a wide variety of fun, exciting, interesting and informative displays, representing all facets of today's 50 Plus lifestyles.

For the first time in history, you, the Baby Boomer and Senior are changing the definition of retirement.

Seeking ways to renew, revitalize, reinvent and rediscover. Like anyone else who wants to keep ahead of their time and with the times, Boomers & Seniors need and want answers to numerous questions regarding health and wellness, travel, finance, real estate, anti-aging, gardening, recreational activity, technology, transportation, aesthetics, second careers, adult lifestyle living and more...

The Mature Living Ultimate Lifestyle Show gives Boomers & Seniors the opportunity to get their questions answered, to connect with

companies, demonstrate and experience new products and services, come face-to-face with exhibitors who will inform, seminars that will educate and entertainment that will be fun and exciting.

The Mature Living Exhibition is designed to encourage personal growth and enrichment for those in the third age. Past perceptions about aging are rapidly falling by the wayside.

Growing older is a cause for CELEBRATION...live life to the fullest.

Each show differs from the others from year to year, but they all have some things in common - plenty of opportunities to take part in activities (for example dancing, yoga, t'ai chi, bowls, pilates etc); shows and demonstrations including live cookery, ballroom dancing, make-overs and beauty tips and the spectacular fashion shows; seminars (including financial information, tales of reallife adventure, relationship advice and our popular 'gardening question time'; and lots of exhibitors from travel companies, holidays and hotel getaways, health care providers, financial advice, energy-saving companies, insurance companies etc. As you can probably tell, every show is a fun-filled day out.

Who Should Attend: • Baby Boomers • Seniors • Empty Nesters • Children of Senior Parents • Retirees or Semi-Retirees • Caregivers • Grandchildren who want to spend a quality day with their grandparent(s) • Those interested in a fun day out

See the Exhibi!on Schedule Page 38 & 39

If you have not previously visited The Mature Living Exhibi!on you are in for a pleasant surprise!

The exhibi!on is all about making the most of your life and leisure, and visi!ng the show will give you plenty of ideas ­ and experiences.

The shows take place in The Clarion Hotel in Sligo on the 10th and 11th of May Visit www.maturelivingexpo.ie for the latest details Page 4 Mature Living April 2013

The

at the

Exhibition

Clarion Hotel Sligo

2013

Fri May 10th 11-6 Sat May 11th 10-6

W O H S E L Y T S E F I L E T A M I T T HE U L

What will be there...

Health testing and monitoring Including blood pressure testing, spinal screening, visual screening tests and hearing tests.

Fashion Show The latest in both Men’s and Women’s fashion from leading stores

Computing and Internet tuition

Visitors will be given tuition on using the Internet and sending emails.

Antique valuations

A leading auctioneer will value small collectibles and jewellery.

Pampering Sessions

Indulge in a free manicure, pedicure or Indian head massage.

Wooden floors, conservatories, solar heating, hot tubs etc

Motoring

Test drive the latest car or maybe you want to look inside a motorhome.

Retirement villages

Many people are being attracted to the many new retirement villages, because of their security and medical facilities. A number of companies will be featuring their latest projects.

Personal finance

Investment advisors, equity release providers, income and inheritance tax consultants, mortgage and insurance providers and other specialists will be available to explain their products.

...Plus Much, Much More!

Home Improvement

Holidays

Professionals from the tourism sector will be on hand giving all the latest information on holidaying at home or abroad.

Gardening

Experts from Connacht Gold will answer visitors questions on all aspects of gardening.

Cosmetic procedures

Specialists will explain the various procedures & recent developments.

Over 60 exhibitors Exhibitors from all types of businesses displaying their products and services

The Mature Living Exhibition will supplement these features with a number of new attractions such as cosmetic and fashion make-overs, pets advice, wine tasting and much much more.

OVER 60 EXHIBITORS

A wide variety of talks & seminars

Entry €5

Free admission if you register online prior to April 25th

www.maturelivingexpo.ie

To Book a stand call Seamus on 085-2498067 or 071-9154538

News

Bealtaine - Ireland’s unique festival celebrating creativity as we age

?

Grow Happy! with thousands of events across Ireland 1st-31st May

T

he Bealtaine Festival is Ireland’s groundbreaking nationwide celebration of creativity as we age and is an initiative of Age & Opportunity.

This year’s theme is “Grow Happy!”

Amongst a host of events, the 2013 festival will be bookended by two unique choral events, the Complaints Choir on Wednesday 1st May and on Sunday 26th May Ireland’s Dawn Chorus will sing out across Ireland and for the first time across Europe as part of the Cultural Programme to mark Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

For Ireland’s inaugural Complaints Choir the people have been invited to submit their complaints to the Bealtaine Festival. Conor Linehan of the Royal Irish Academy of Music is in the process of turning these complaints into lyrics for a choral symphony. Choirs around the country will be invited to learn this new composition of complaint then gather together on May 1st to transform all that moaning into a work of art. Dominic Campbell, Artistic Director of Bealtaine, says, “Complaints Choirs are about transforming the huge energy we put into complaining into something more positive. Irish people are supposed to be world class at complaining – here’s the chance to prove it!”

Award-winning actor and writer Mikel

Murfi is taking The Man in The Woman’s Shoes on tour across Ireland during the festival. Last year Mikel met with Active Retirement Ireland and community groups around Sligo to gather stories for this show. He saw a pattern emerge of ‘characters’ who inhabit Sligo villages and probably every village in Ireland.

The show follows Pat Farnon as he walks from his cottage to town and back again and the marvels that he meets along the way. It’s a charming encounter - an ageing man still with a boundless enthusiasm for life. Hilariously funny and tender by turns, the story Mikel wrote asks us to find the common humanity in our fellow man and woman and to show kindness at every opportunity. It also asks us to consider that romantic love is not the preserve of the young.

Wandering Methods, a slow craft project, will see older people explore heritage, both personal and national, through craft. Artists Maeve Clancy and Liz Nilson, together with Deirdre Figueiredo of Craftspace UK, will be working with a group of older people, each of whom will select an object of personal significance as an original source of inspiration, exploring what it means to them and why it is so important via various craft methods.

They will place their object alongside the collected heritage items on display in Rathfarham Castle, creating an exhibition which will be open to the public.

I am here, you are there, a new exhibition of photographic work by artist

Kate Byrne at Highlanes Gallery, Drogheda 11 April – 15th June, will explore ideas of ageing and beauty in contemporary western society in its large scale portraits of eight women.

Byrne’s exhibition considers how older women are represented in a visual culture that is dominated by images of youth in television, film, and the media.

Kate Byrne says of the work, “The subjects photographed all feel their identity marginalised and compromised by their elderly years. The large scale (of the photographs) ensures that the viewer is directed to every blemish, wrinkle, stray hair, and raised vein, yet the overriding objective is to suggest … strength, independence and endurance.”

Dawn Chorus is now established as a calendar event, following an extraordinary debut event on Culdaff beach in Donegal in May 2009. Last year there were around thirty Dawn Chorus events on waterfronts across Ireland.

This year, for the first time, choirs across Europe, as well as across Ireland, are being encouraged to open their doors to retirement groups, to develop a short concert together and to sing on a scenic waterfront to mark the end of the Bealtaine Festival 2013, with these uniquely beautiful events taking place Sunday 26th May. These events are just some of the highlights among thousands of theatre, events, music, dance, film, visual arts and other events celebrating creativity as we age that will take place throughout the month of May.

Music in Drumcliffe 2013 with Vogler Quartet & Guests

S

ligo Arts Service is delighted to announce their artists and concert programme for Music in Drumcliffe which will take place from Saturday 4th May to Monday 6th May 2013. As festival ensemble-in-residence, the Vogler Quartet, will perform alongside Irish international performers Ailish Tynan, soprano and Finghin Collins, piano, as well as Winfried Holzenkamp, double bass (Germany), Marcelo Nisinman, bandoneon, (Argentina) and Giovanni Bellucci, piano (Italy).

Repertoire will include works by Puccini, Schubert, Verdi, Brahms, Haydn, Schoenberg, Schumann, Ravel, Liszt, Saint- Saëns and Dvořák.

Since its establishment in 2000, Music in Drumcliffe has become one of Ireland’s leading international chamber music festivals, offering audiences the opportunity to experience high standards of programming through a fresh choice of artists, all performing

Page 6 Mature Living April 2013

alongside the internationally acclaimed Vogler Quartet, in one of the most beautiful locations in Ireland, at the foot of Benbulben mountain and in the heart of Yeats Country.

This year the festival will launch Strings Attached: A Mentoring Programme for String Quartet with the Vogler Quartet, 2012 -2014. In a search, throughout 2012, for an existing quartet or separate players wishing to form a new quartet, 25 participants of the highest standard in the country participated in auditions at the RIAM in November of last year. Two quartets, Strings Attached and Strings Attached Junior, were chosen to enter this innovative programme dedicated to excellence. Over the three days of the festival, hear the Chiral Quartet and the Iuventes Quartet in Open Masterclasses with Finghin Collins and the Vogler Quartet as well as their debut festival performance performing

Haydn, Schumann and Mendelssohn on Sunday 5th May. Music lovers can look forward to yet another cultural packed bank holiday weekend of inspiring music in the friendly, intimate and evocative setting of Drumcliffe, Co Sligo. Special hotel rates available on booking confirmation.

Booking information:Tickets for the Music in Drumcliffe range from €5 to €25. Season tickets are €115 with concessions €95, in advance of the festival (OAPs, students and the unwaged). For information/credit card bookings, please contact Artscope + 353 (0)1 505 9582 or email info@artscope.ie Bookings can be made by post, telephone or email. Tickets can also be purchased from Drumcliffe Tea House and Crafts Shop + 353 (0)71-914 4956.

See www.musicindrumcliffe.ie for full programme and booking details.

How you could save when buying your prescription medicine How you could save when buying your prescription Prescription prices for consumers, who are not on a medical card or other state scheme, are made up of the cost of the medicine to the pharmacy, the retail mark-up and a dispensing fee, which is a fee charged by the pharmacist for preparing the prescription and for any advice they give.

Check out the price of your prescription medicine from a number of different pharmacies in your area. Ring in advance and ask what your prescription would cost, as this could save you money particularly if you are on long-term medication or are getting a number of prescriptions filled.

Don’t assume any pharmacy is cheaper, either independent or chain, so make sure that you include all pharmacies in your local area when looking for the best price for your prescription medicine.

You may have a good relationship with your pharmacist and may not want to go to another pharmacy, even if you can save money. If this is the case, try negotiating with your pharmacist.

Ask if they could apply one dispensing fee on a number of prescribed items or if they could reduce the dispensing fee if you are getting a prescription there regularly

L A ST ’S MONTHTION TI COMPENERS W IN

Last Month’s winner of the Shearaton Athlone Competition was Maureen Fitzsimons of Lanesboro, Co. Longford AND the Winner of the Harlequinn Hotel Competition was Tom Morley of Carracastle, Co. Mayo

Addiction Treatment Centre "Our mission is to provide a dedicated centre of excellence delivering a quality client centred approach with compassion and dignity while respecting the values and beliefs of all our clients" Who can come to the Centre?

Anyone who is concerned about their own or someone else's alcohol, gambling or substance use. A doctor's referral is not necessary.

is not immediately available, you can leave your contact details and they will return your call. Our Counsellors have extensive experience of dealing with difficult and sensitive issues.

What does treatment envolve?

We run a 4-week residential programme. Addiction is a life threatening condition which can be effectively treated through timely intervention. We know that although recovery is a difficult and complex process change is achievable with the help of highly trained professional staff and with feedback from other recovering addicts, and those concerned about recovery.

Can I visit someone admitted for treatment in the Centre?

Yes. Vistiting is permitted for family members by arrangement on Saturdays and Sundays from 2.00p.m. to 4.30pm.

A member of my family doesn't think that he/she has a problem! What can I do?

Call us and ask to speak to one of our Counsellors. If one

Martin Quinn MIAAAC Accredited Professionally Qualified Counsellor • Available for Private Consultations Gulladoo Centre, Cornafest, Co. Leitrim, Ireland Telephone: 049-4339605 Mobile: 086-8638842 Email: info@gulladoocentre.com

News

Does Coffee Protect Against Oral Cancer?

N

ew study says drinking 4 or more cups daily may be beneficial to health The big cup of good news about coffee's health benefits just got another refill. Before we proceed further this article does not recommend those who don’t drink coffee to suddenly start including it in their diet in order to reduce the possibilities of certain cancers.

Coffee drinking may have adverse health effects as well. However, it is interesting to note that a large new study finds that regular coffee drinkers are much less prone to dying from cancers of the mouth and upper throat.

The study, which followed more than 968,000 older men and women for 26 years, found that those who drank four or more eight-ounce cups of caffeinated coffee per day were about half as likely to die of these cancers.

"We wanted to look at this because there had been a handful of studies that had shown consistently that coffee seems to reduce risk of cancer of the oral cavity," said Janet

Hildebrand, an American Cancer Society analyst who led the new research, which was reported in the American Journal of Epidemiology.

These cancers, Hildebrand said, are most often linked to smoking and alcohol consumption. Although the early stage of the disease is highly treatable, researchers wrote, more than 60 percent of patients do not seek medical attention until their cancer has advanced and the odds of long-term survival have greatly worsened. Men are more than twice as likely as women to develop and die from mouth or pharynx cancer.

The subjects (average age 57), were cancer-free when they enrolled in the Cancer Prevention Study II starting in 1982, Hildebrand said. They were followed through 2008, and 868 deaths from oral/pharyngeal cancer were recorded. Based on self-reported dietary information, the study found that people who drank four to six cups of java daily had a 49 percent lower risk of dying from these oral cancers. A similar but weaker

Page 8 Mature Living April 2013

association was found for those who drank decaffeinated coffee, while no link was seen with tea drinking.

No one knows for sure why coffee might have cancer-fighting properties, but animal and laboratory studies have shown that two compounds in coffee — cafestol and kahweol — protect against oxidative DNA damage. "We need laboratory studies on actual cells and tissues from the oral cancer" to really understand exactly how coffee is helping to protect against cancer, Hildebrand says.

She cautions that her study only captured how many people died from the disease, not how many were diagnosed with cancer overall.

This means that researchers could not determine whether some people may have survived oral cancer due to improved treatment or earlier diagnosis, rather than their coffee consumption, she says.

However, the cancer society study was in line with a 2010 paper published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention by international researchers, who found a 39 percent decreased risk among coffee drinkers of developing oralpharyngeal cancers in a review of nine previous studies.

Oral-pharyngeal cancers typically are treated with a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, says Sara Pai, M.D., a head and neck surgeon and researcher at Johns Hopkins Medical School. The overall survival rate for head and neck cancers is 57 percent, she says.

The newly published cancer society research benefited from following a large pool of patients, Pai says. "They followed a large group of patients and their results seem reliable."

Keith - 085-1053588 / 071-9310787

FREE (BER)

with every house insulated this month (with this advert)

Open Day for kidney and diabetic patients and their families

MANAGING kidney failure and diabetes, both physically and psychologically, as well as the process of organ donation and transplantation will all form part of a Public Health Information Day to be held at the Sligo Park Hotel on Saturday, 20th April from 2pm - 6pm.

Admission is free to this event which is organised by the Sligo Branch of the Irish Kidney Association. A large attendance of people from throughout the North West and beyond are expected to attend this event. It is open to members of the general public who are interested in securing comprehensive information from a broad range of leading professionals.

Ms. Anne Marie Moran, consultant nephrologist, Sligo and Letterkenny General Hospitals will outline the diagnosis, management and treatments available for kidney disease as well as medical advances; Ms. Oonagh Deeney, Dietician at Beaumont Hospital will speak about diet for renal and diabetic patients; Ms. Regina Reynolds, Transplant co-ordinator, Beaumont Hospital will speak about the organ donation and transplantation process; and Mr. Mike Kelly, Counsellor, Irish Kidney Association will speak about the psychological effects of being diagnosed and living with organ failure, the lifestyle changes it brings and also the emotional effects of transplantation. One of the key organisers of the event is Marie Fowley, herself a kidney and pancreas transplant recipient and member of the Sligo Branch of the Irish Kidney Association. A qualified nurse also, Marie said, “I hope that other kidney and diabetic patients will find this awareness event of immense help in securing the best possible outcome both mentally and physically. I hope that by sharing information and experiences on the chain of events that take place from diagnosis right through to transplantation it will greatly benefit others”.

Anyone wishing to find out more about this event can contact Marie Fowley from Hazelwood, Sligo on 086 0826242.

Enjoy 3 nights midweek bed and breakfast @

Le!erkenny Co. Donegal

From only ₏33 per person sharing per night Call 074 9124369 quo!ng "matureliving" to book Or visit www.clanreehotel.com for our great offers Visit us on facebook ­ facebook.com/clanreehotel

Gerry Walsh speaks with Márie Kelly

Máire Kelly

A proud tradition of excellence

managed by her aunt at that time. Her father, Sean Kelly, who sadly passed away in 2011, also worked in the business for many years. Maire admits she received tremendous family support and had no problem in combining work and family life over the years. She continues to upskill and refresh her knowledge and recently attended an upstyling seminar given by American stylist Manual Rodriguez. Amy and Cian, who are fourth generation in the family-run business, both graduated from the award-winning Best Intercoiffure Continental Academy, MOHH Hairdressing Academy, last year.

Amy was awarded the title “Student of the Year”, such was her passion for hair and customer service. Cian had the opportunity to train in the American International Institute of Cosmetology with Italian World Class Hairdresser, Tindaro Orifici, and worked at styling backstage on American TV Channel CNN. Both have worked on many photo shoots, from catwalk model agency shoots to bridal shoots, and are continually updating their portfolios by attending courses around the country. They have a passion for competitions and have competed in the OMC World Best Hairdresser Competition 2012.

The salon is the proud recipient of the Vodafone Business Award (2006), Schwarzkopf Customer Care Award, 2007 and third overall in Hairdresser of the Year, 2007. It has obtained a FIVE Stars and features consistently in the Good Salon Guide, which lists the best salons in Ireland.

Máire pictured outside the Salon on Castle Street, last week.

C

ASTLE STREET, CASTLEBAR houses many fine businesses. Kelly’s Hair and Beauty Salon is one of the longest-established businesses in the town and the current proprietor, Maire Kelly-Moore, is the third generation of the Kelly family to run the salon, renowned for its welcoming and unique character.

Founded by Maire’s grandfather, Joe Kelly, back in 1932 as a barber shop, expanding to a lady’s salon in 1942, the business has flourished through good times and bad and its continued success has much to do with the personalities and attitude of the Kelly’s. On entering the premises the warmth of the welcome is infectious. The ambience is most unusual for a modern salon. The walls are dotted with pictures of movie stars, intermingled with an array of awards and commendations received by Maire and her children, Amy (24) and Cian (23) and other staff. While talking to Maura I took the opportunity to sit in a chair which dates back to the early days in the salon and was occupied at various times by some renowned personalities, including Charles Haughey.

Maire is happy to quote her grandfather’s famous saying: “If the razor

pleases, tell others; if not, tell Kelly”.

Back in the early days, it was perms, sets, blue rinses and other traditional cuts that predominated. The hair business has certainly moved on, but for the Kelly’s the human touch remains.

Everybody is given the option of tea or coffee, staff are friendly and welcoming with a genuine interest in the welfare of customers. Indeed, for some, the hairdressing experience has a “home away from home” feel to it, as people discuss styles, fashions and local events.

All of 25 years ago the Sunday World’s infamous Hair Spy, during a “sneak” visit to Kelly’s, was so impressed she commented: “. . . it’s the best job I’d had done in a long time. The staff were wonderful, bright, intelligent and chirpy.

And I was offered a cuppa at least three times”. Hair Spy also noted that the hygiene was faultless.

Maire is married to Patrick, a farmer, and she lives with her family close to Westport. Both her children, Amy and Cian, have college degrees, but have opted to remain in the business. They both love working in the salon, a love gleaned from Maire herself, who started at the age of 15, after attending an after-school course. The salon was

Page 10 Mature Living April December 2013 2012

The historic chair

knowledgeable about their work. Would highly recommend.”

Apart from her business expertise those that are familiar with Maire know there is another side to her life.

The Nail bar, an important feature in the modern beauty salon.

Just last week the Guide received the following comment concerning Kelly’s: “I travel from a neighbouring town especially to go to this salon. Very friendly staff, always offered tea or coffee upon arrival. Staff take great care and attention and are very

Marie is renowned for her contribution to the local community and charities. She was humbled, but proud to be the first ever recipient of a Vodafone Passion for the World Around Us business award, in conjunction with Castlebar Chamber of Commerce

Kian and Amy received their degrees from MOHH last year.

She is renowned for her contribution to the local community and charities.

She was humbled, but proud to be the first ever recipient of a Vodafone Passion for the World Around Us business award, in conjunction with Castlebar Chamber of Commerce. The awards recognised and rewarded people who made an effort to improve their local communities and who had been successful in making a positive contribution to the world around them.

The achievement of the award was due to her involvement with a number of worthy causes, principally her role in helping to raise funds for an MRI scanner in Mayo General and her work with Mayo-Roscommon Hospice. All the girls in the salon will be taking part in the Women’s Mini Marathon for a host of charities Sunday, May 5th.

Maire is sad to see businesses closing and young people leaving Castlebar. It is noticeable in the salon. When asked how the business is coping with the downturn she was forthright in her reply: “If you have a passion for the business you are in you will go to any length to succeed. I introduced a Loyalty system to give customers a boost. You have to put yourself out there. You have to think outside the box. You offer extras, addons like free nail polishes, etc. I come to work early in the morning to make An unusual shot - Máire discovered relaxing at her salon last week.

people welcome. We make house calls . . . hospital calls, etc. Community involvement helps. Amy and Cian are involved with local musicals. You have to be positive.” She strongly believes Castlebar is a positive town. She supports the “Love Castlebar” initiative launched recently by An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny. Kelly’s Hair and Beauty has been nominated as a Bord Failte salon for its role in getting people to come to Castlebar. She feels towns should help each other. When asked about her hobbies or other interests Maire’s first response is spontaneous: “My job is my hobby”. This is understandable since she enjoys it so much. The indefatigable Maire gets up at 4.30 each morning, “the nicest part of the day” she says.

She loves farm life, hill walking, working with horses; she breeds chickens and just loves cooking. If that’s not enough she also enjoys gardening and working with flowers.

On the music front, amid broad smiles from daughter Amy, she admits to liking Andrew Bocelli, Celine Dion, Pink and Emili Sande.

Maire and her family carry on a proud tradition in Castlebar. It is impossible not to be impressed by the hospitality, the warmth, the friendliness, but above all, the positivity which is all-embracing in this fine establishment.

Page 11 Mature Living April 2013

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The prize which is based on two adults sharing includes the following: • 2 nights luxurious accommodation with Full Irish Breakfast each morning • 2 Evening Meals in the Enclosure Bar & Bistro or the Tribes Restaurant • One Full Guided Day Tour of either Connemara or the Cliffs of Moher • Tea & Homemade Scones on one afternoon • Complimentary access to Leisure Centre incl. 20m pool, Sauna & Steam Room To be in with a chance to win this fantastic break, simply answer the question and send your answer, along with your name, address, email address and telephone number into us at the ature Living have teamed up with the Sheraton Athlone address below...

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one SendDinner. your entries into us at ‘Clayton Hotel Competition’ Mature Living Magazine, Office 3, To with a chance of Park, winning this fantastic price, simply Unitbe7,inNorthwest Business Collooney, Co. Sligo answer the question below.

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Q: Which River Runs through Athlone?

Send your entries into us at: Sheraton Athlone Competition, IBS Publishing, Unit 7, NW Park,•Collooney, Sligo.

2B&B, 2 Dinners fromBusiness €109pps 3B&B, 3Co. Dinners Single Supplement Applies) T&C Apply, Closing Date for entires: 10th(No April 2013

from €159pps

• Luxurious accommodation with Full Irish Breakfast each morning • Dinner on each evening in the Enclosure Bar & Bistro or the Tribes Restaurant • One Full Guided Day Tour of either Connemara or the Cliffs of Moher (valid with 3 night package only) • Tea & Homemade Scones on one afternoon • Free Parking & Complimentary News Paper • Additional discounts available for local activities.

• Complimentary access to Leisure Centre incl. 20m pool, Sauna, Steam Room (The above are valid Sun – Thu. inclusive or weekends at an additional cost) Please Quote ‘ Mature Living Magazine’ to avail of Golden Year Specials above We also cater for private groups and tailor make Active Retirement Breaks upon Request.

Call (091) 721900 Email: reservations@clayton.ie Web: www.clayton.ie

www.facebook.com/claytonhotel

Grattan St, Sligo • www.ejsligo.com • 071-9170824 OPEN 7 DAYS THURSDAY TILL 7PM, SUNDAY 2-6PM

menswear

Feature with Sonya Hamill of Blue Apple Dental - Irish Dentistry’s Dental Practice of the Year 2013

Why Oral Health is Important for Your Body’s Health (and some good news too!)

We aren’t often told about the wider reasons for looking after our teeth and gums. We know we should brush twice a day, and floss, but we don’t always do it (we’re all human).

• Brush your teeth twice a day • Floss (it’s the only way to effectively get between the teeth and under the gum level) • See your dentist twice a year (early treatment means less treatment) • See your Hygienist regularly (they can get to the areas we just can’t) Even Better News!

It’s NEVER too late to start. And intervention at any stage will be of benefit to you!

At Blueapple we meet people every day who fear they have let things go too far. But the reality is that we can always help them.

And helping someone get from that point, to feeling good about their teeth and smile again is the main reason we enjoy our job so much.

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e know that before medical procedures we are often told to get our teeth checked by a dentist, but we often don’t know why.

We know that tooth decay is bad, pain is definitely bad, and bleeding gums can’t be good, but most of us don’t know the full story about their implications for our general health.

Your oral health can be viewed as a window into your general body health.

This area of medicine is well researched, and increasingly so. Researchers have long since been exploring their suspicions of increased risk of heart disease in people with gum disease.

Studies show that the majority of adults in Ireland today display this condition in some degree, with 5-10% having gum disease (periodontal disease) in its most severe forms.

People with diabetes are at increased risk of dental problems due to their lowered defence mechanisms against infection. And recent studies are more frequently looking into links between

poor oral health and other medical conditions, some even looking at possible links between Alzheimers and early tooth loss.

One of the main reasons for the mouth’s wide ranging influence on our bodies is the degree of bacteria present in the mouth. Estimates of the number of bacteria species in the mouth range from 500-650. And then you can add to this picture the impact of any untreated disease we may have present in terms of decay and dental infections. And when you look at it like that, even anecdotally you can see that keeping on top of that can only be good for you. Our bodies rely on us battling this build-up of bacteria with our daily oral care, and minimising the impact long term dental disease can have on our overall health and wellbeing.

The Good News!

The really good news is that this is all preventable and treatable.

We all know the mantra:

‘Blueapple Dental & Implant Team’ is an award-winning dental practice in the village of Belcoo in Co. Fermanagh, run by husband and wife team, James and Sonya Hamill.

Blueapple carries out all forms of dentistry under one roof, and focuses on helping people overcome their dental challenges, to re-establish their dental health, comfort and beauty. They believe that there is no-one they can’t help regain their dental confidence.

‘Blueapple Dental & Implant Team’ has won multiple awards, including ‘Best New Practice’, ‘Best Young Dentist in the UK & Ireland’, and most recently ‘Best Patient Care in Ireland 2012’.

www.blueappledental.com

Blueapple welcomes new patients.

Just call 048 66386111 to make an appointment for your consultation.

‘Such encouragement and support I have never experienced before and empowered me to complete the procedure without sedation….My trust in Blueapple across all aspects of my dental experience is always upheld each time I visit the practice. I cannot emphasise enough the transformation that has occurred in my life in terms of panic and anxiety. ‘ An anxious patient, Sligo.

Senior Resource Feature

Malnutrition in Older People is a Cause for Concern Home Instead Senior Care understands that nutritional support for older people and their families is needed to ensure older people can remain happy, healthy and independent living in their own home – and at the same time achieve major savings for the HSE.

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hronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease and conditions such as constipation are more common, therefore it is essential to put thought into your shopping list so as to best manage your health.

Older people with poor nutrition are more susceptible to infections, take longer to recover from illness and those admitted to hospital respond less well to treatment, stay longer in hospital and have poorer outcomes than well-nourished patients.

Home Instead Senior Care have put together some tips to help older people achieve optimum nutrition with when filling their shopping basket.

Shopping tips for older people to help achieve optimum nutrition 1. Shop with others. Shopping can sometimes be seen as a chore – make it more sociable by shopping with a friend or family member!

2. Check with your local supermarket to see if it can deliver your groceries.

3. Look out for special price offers. Many local butchers, grocers and supermarkets run offers on nourishing produce that is in

season.

4. Loyalty cards: ensure you have a loyalty card for the store(s) you shop in so you can avail of their special offers and promotions.

5. Don’t be afraid of freezing. When cooking for one it is easy to over-estimate portions. Instead of throwing away the excess food, why not freeze it to use as a dinner option on another day?

6. Always make a shopping list. Have a standard shopping list with core items such as fresh, frozen and tinned foods that can be stored. This can save time and money.

7. Don’t shop hungry. Shoppers are always tempted to buy more when hungry!

So have a snack before hitting the aisles.

8. Think variety. It’s easy to get in a rut.

Don’t be afraid to try new foods and recipes.

9. Try store brands. The most costly brands are often placed at eye level.

Store own brands, which may be cheaper and just as good, are often placed higher or lower on the grocery shelves.

For more information about Home Instead Senior Care Galway call 091-384160 or log on to www.homeinstead.ie

Page 15 Mature Living April 2013

Feature

7 Foods to Keep You Young

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know it sounds morbid but many nutritionists still maintain that every time we sit down to eat and what we eat will govern what we will eventually die from. Deciding what foods to eat in order to live longer can be a nightmare for some. Any form of diet should also, of course be accompanied by a healthy lifestyle generally – more exercise, less stress, etc. We still thought it would be useful to isolate a number of foods which should, on balance, help to maintain a longer and healthier life 1. Olive oil: Four decades ago, researchers from the Seven Countries Study concluded that the monounsaturated fats in olive oil were largely responsible for the low rates of heart disease and cancer on the Greek island of Crete. Now we know that olive oil also contains polyphenols, powerful antioxidants that may help prevent age-related diseases.

2. Yogurt: In the 1970s, Soviet Georgia was rumored to have more centenarians per capita than any other country. Reports at the time claimed that the secret of their long lives was yogurt, a food ubiquitous in their diets.

While the age-defying powers of yogurt never have been proved directly, yogurt

is rich in calcium, which helps stave off osteoporosis and contains "good bacteria" that help maintain gut health and diminish the incidence of agerelated intestinal illness.

3. Fish: Thirty years ago, researchers began to study why the native Inuits of Alaska were remarkably free of heart disease. The reason, scientists now think, is the extraordinary amount of fish they consume. Fish is an abundant source of omega-3 fats, which help prevent cholesterol build-up in arteries and protect against abnormal heart rhythms.

4. Chocolate:The Kuna people of the San Blas islands, off the coast of Panama, have a rate of heart disease that is nine times less than that of mainland Panamanians. The reason? The Kuna drink plenty of a beverage made with generous proportions of cocoa, which is unusually rich in flavanols that help preserve the healthy function of blood vessels. Maintaining youthful blood vessels lowers risk of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease and dementia.

5. Nuts: Studies of Seventh-Day Adventists (a religious denomination

that emphasizes healthy living and a vegetarian diet) show that those who eat nuts gain, on average, an extra two and a half years. Nuts are rich sources of unsaturated fats, so they offer benefits similar to those associated with olive oil. They're also concentrated sources of vitamins, minerals and other phytochemicals, including antioxidants.

6. Wine: Drinking alcohol in moderation protects against heart disease, diabetes and age-related memory loss. Any kind of alcoholic beverage seems to provide such benefits, but red wine has been the focus of much of the research. Red wine contains resveratrol, a compound that likely contributes to its benefits— and, according to animal studies, may activate genes that slow cellular aging.

7. Blueberries: In a landmark study published in 1999, researchers at Tufts University’s Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging fed rats blueberry extract for a period of time that in "rat lives" is equivalent to 10 human years. These rats outperformed rats fed regular chow on tests of balance and coordination when they reached old age. Compounds in blueberries (and other berries) mitigate

inflammation and oxidative damage, which are associated with age-related deficits in memory and motor function.

Oh, you knew all this already, did you?

Then have you been applying any of this knowledge to your own diet? We can all point to people who do the right things and still die, unexpectedly, at a younger age. However, applying good basic principles will increase your chances of living a longer, healthier life.

Strandhill Lodge & Suites awarded Tripadvisors 'Travellers Choice'

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he 4 Star Strandhill Lodge and Suites Boutique Hotel located with Mount Knocknarea as its backdrop is an exciting new HotelStyle Guesthouse located in the Heart of Strandhill Village overlooking Strandhill Golf Club and Strandhill Bay in the beautiful Co Sligo. Comprising 18 Deluxe rooms and 4 Superior Suites, this Fáilte Ireland, AA and Georgina Campbell approved 4 Star accommodation caters for every taste.

The Strandhill Lodge and Suites were recently awarded Tripadvisors coveted 'Travellers Choice Award' and were ranked 13th Best Hotel in the World 2012 - as well as achieving 3rd place in Ireland. Awarded for service and value this hotel is hard to beat when looking for somewhere special.

The views from the Balconies and Patio rooms are an awe-inspiring site spanning the whole of Strandhill Bay and its environs. The glorious red sunsets form part of one of the most stunning settings on the west coast of Ireland. Some recently added refurbishments including a larger Breakfast room and Conservatory were also added.

Strandhill Golf Course lies beside Strandhill Lodge and Suites and is a challenging links course. It sits on the cusp of the Strandhill peninsula and surrounded by two beaches and some of the most terrific beauty on the West coast; it poses a taxing challenge to any golfer.

Along with surfing, pony trekking, mountain climbing, bike rides and walking trails Strandhill offers a great

treat for all those 'outdoor types'!

For relaxation and pampering the Voya Seaweed Baths lets all those worries drift away in a unique and absorbing experience. Now one of the North-West’s major attractions the Voya Seaweed Baths captures and keeps anyone who experiences it.

With an array of treatments and massages, and the opportunity to bath in the most thorough form of detox the Voya Baths are a must when visiting Sligo.

Three award winning restaurants also lie in Strandhill which serve excellent fresh seafood, the finest of Irish Steaks and an italian themed restaurant also. These fine restaurants, in conjunction with a Chinese restaurant, a pancake and waffle house and a superb seaside bakery/cafe make Strandhill an ideal culinary destination. If you are looking for somewhere as a quiet escape or a small family holiday without the hustle and bustle of large complexes then have a look here, a new departure in tourism is taking place and it begins in Strandhill, Co Sligo with the Strandhill Lodge and Suites; for relaxation, adventure, top quality accommodation and fine dining, Strandhill is this years top destination.

For Spring/Summer getaway breaks; Strandhill is offering great packages for two including 3 nights including a round of golf or two Voya Seaweed Baths for only €139pps; be sure to ask for a seaview room when booking; the views are spectacular! www.strandhilllodgeandsuites.com

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he Boyne Valley Hotel In Drogheda is a beautiful 19th century country house hotel set at the end of a tree lined avenue, featuring 16 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland.

Located just 20 minutes from Dublin Airport, this 3 star Meath Hotel has so much to offer you.

For business or pleasure, a quiet break away, a meeting, a wedding or a family celebration the Boyne Valley Hotel is everything you are looking for.

A traditional warm Irish welcome from our dedicated staff. Our award-winning leisure club with swimming pool, gym and tennis courts await you. A selection of meeting rooms to suit every purpose from small interviews to 300 delegate conferences. The hotel is a hub of local activity for events and family celebrations.

We invite you to enjoy our hospitalit! and ex"lore all the heritage, scener!, activit!, shopping and lux#r! that this region has to offer

Events and Functions Catered for

Inc. Reunions, Retirement par%ies, Family get-togethers or any par%!!

We offer Rooms available for smaller par%ies up to 50 people and Two Ballrooms that each cater up to 300 people.

Young at hear% Packages: 2 nights B&B including 2 dinners from only €109pps 3 nights B&B including 3 dinners from only €159pps No single supplement The above offers include:

Luxurious Accommodation with full Irish Breakfast each morning, Dinner on each evening in the Terrace Bar or Seasons Restaurant.

Welcome drink on arrival, Free Parking Complimentary access to the Leisure Centre including: Pool, Sauna, Steamroom & Jacuzzi.

The offers are valid from Sunday to Thursday or weekends at an additional cost.

Please Quote ‘Mature Living Magazine’ to avail of the Young at Heart Packages

Dublin Road, Drogheda, Co. Louth • Tel: 041 983 7737 reservations@boyne-valley-hotel.ie • www.boyne-valley-hotel.ie

Feature by Joseph Browne of Galway Hearing Care

Hearing Problems are not just About You family life comes by way of modern, hearing aid technology. In just a few short years, hearing aids have shrunk in size and amped up both volume and features that make hearing aid use a whole new living experience.

Today's digital hearing aids offer a host of features including: • Wearing comfort • A variety of types of hearing aids to suit your personal preferences • Improved sound quality (full spectrum, natural sound through the use of open ear hearing aid technology that allows natural hearing with a little boost on an "as needed" basis • Automated technology to control sound levels in various listening environments without a thought • Automated feedback suppression so you can go throughout your day without the worry of whistling

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f you are the one who is experiencing a gradual or sudden loss of hearing, you naturally think that it's your problem. After all, it's happening to you!

But the fact is......hearing loss in any family affects the entire family, not just you. Indeed, you might feel isolated. You may engage with others less because of the difficulties just to be understood.

You might feel sorry for yourself. You're the one with the problem, right?. You have a hearing loss – a hearing problem – but that hearing loss has an impact on everything from routine communications between family members and friends.

On the other hand, if you're a family member who has to cope with the hearing loss of a loved one, you have your own set of problems – frustration, the feeling of being ignored, separation from a loving, supportive spouse, and the inability to be a part of daily family life.

Whether you recognise hearing loss in yourself or others take steps to take this totally unnecessary stress factor out of everyday life Coping With Hearing Loss It starts here, with an increased awareness of the impact of hearing loss has on family life discover how to increase your awareness of hearing loss and lower the stress levels at home.

Be patient, even when patience is wearing thin. No one is at fault, here.

Use adaptive behaviours. Stand directly in front of the individual with hearing loss to provide visual clues of what you're saying with mouth movements.

Ensure you have their attention and they are aware you are speaking to them. It's the little things that deliver positive results.

Sit close to each other in crowded, noisy spaces like restaurants or parties,

Page 18 Mature Living April 2013

and again, position yourself so eyemouth contact is easy and un-noticed by others in the group.

Don't call out from another room to an individual with hearing loss. Sound bounces from wall to wall and by the time it reaches the person with hearing loss it's a garbled, muffled noise.

What about those free or low-cost, poorly-made personal sound amplifiers advertised on TV / papers? These unregulated assisted-listening devices can cause more damage to an already weakened hearing system. Your hearing needs to be assessed by an audiologist. If you had a problem with your teeth would you prefer to visit a dentist or a ‘toothiologist’?.

Hearing loss is a physical impairment, like a broken arm. You wouldn't get annoyed at a family member with a broken arm, but because hearing loss is invisible it's easy to forget the impact that physical loss of hearing causes.

Your spouse isn't ignoring you. They may not hear you. However, these kinds of signals are often mis-construed, leading you or others in the household living with mis-communications, frustration, isolation, hurt feelings and other emotions that need some kind of outlet.

Recognise the impact hearing loss is having on other members of the family, how communications have changed – lessened. How stress has slowly crept in to become part of the daily routine.

There are numerous coping strategies you can use to help you understand your feelings and the feelings of others, whether you're the family member with hearing loss or one of the family members who must cope with hearing loss in a loved one.

Technology The simplest, most effective solution to the negative impact hearing loss has on

It starts with a visit to a qualified hearing aid professional – an audiologist or hearing aid practitioner well versed in hearing loss and hearing loss solutions.

Professionals perform an evaluation of the type and extent of hearing loss AND offers advice on whether hearing aids or

surgery is a possibility.

Through the use of today's hearing technology, you can expect improved communications on the home front – less shouting and more communication between all family members.

Hearing aids, not only improve hearing, they improve relationships – the important relationships in your life regardless of your age. Recognise that hearing loss impacts everyone – not just the person experiencing loss of hearing.

Family, friends, co-workers; everyone benefits when hearing loss is properly and effectively treated.

If you are in doubt or are concerned about your hearing or the hearing of a loved one then do not hesitate to make an appointment with Galway Hearing Care (091) 567 888 or e-mail info@galwayhearingcare.ie. Website: www.galwayhearingcare.ie. All our staff are qualified Audiologists with degrees and are currently studying part time for Masters degrees. We are not part of any franchise and are a locally owned and family run business.

HEAR THE DIFFERENCE

Address: Galway Hearing Care, 5 Commerce House, Flood Street, Galway Email: info@galwayhearingcare.ie

Cunningham Care

Maintain Independence & Comfort

lling e S w o N l Personads Care Ai

Opening Hours Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10am to 5pm Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday Home Demonstrations Contact Anita for our Product Brochures

Ability Chair and Bed Specialists Monksland, Athlone • Tel: 090-6440004 / Mob: 085-8642032 • Email: cunninghamcare@gmail.com

The Benefits of Aloe Vera

Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacies & Health Stores supply their own brand vitamin and supplement range called BENEVITS.

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ncluded in this exciting and affordable range is Aloe Vera Juice. The aloe vera plant is often referred to as the miracle plant as people became aware of its qualities and the power of using it. Taking aloe vera juice on a daily basis has many benefits for achieving optimum health. Aloe vera Juice is obtained by extracting the fresh mucilaginous gel from the centre of the cut leaves of the aloe vera plant.

Aloe vera’s benefits are many, simply because of the number of components found within the leaf.There are at least 75 known ingredients in the aloe vera leaf although there are probably many more. It is a rich source of a variety of vitamins and minerals but also contains many other groups such as amino acids, sugars, enzymes and plant sterols among others What are the benefits of aloe vera juice?

• Aloe is great for IBS suffers, those suffering with poor digestion, arthritis, skin conditions and poor circulation. It can also help against infections and relieves constipation • The nutrient rich gel has a soothing effect on the gut . It is a great remedy for stomach ulcers and mouth ulcers • IBS suffers with diarrhoea and constipation can bring their stools back to normal by taking aloe vera • Aloe vera is a great colon cleanse and can be used as part of a detox for weight loss and keeping the colon (bowel) clean • Aloe Vera helps to eliminate toxic minerals from the body and utilises free radicals created by toxic substances making it a fantastic detox • Aloe Vera has antibiotic, antifungal and antiviral properties as it is rich source of amino acids and vitamins • It can be taken by suffers of eczema and arthritis to help relieve itch and promote healing from the inside out.

The effect of Aloe Vera on the systems in the body Digestive System – The food we eat must be broken down before it can be of any benefit to the body and it is the function of the digestive system to do this and aloe vera helps absorb nutrients from the bowel into the bloodstream as the process of absorption ion is helped enormously by the enzymes found in aloe vera juice.

Immune System – A weak immune system can have disastrous results on our health and leave us open to disease and infection. Aloe vera contains a long chain sugar called polysaccharide which is known to have a balancing effect on the immune system.

Musculoskeletal System – Taking aloe vera juice regularly aids the function of this system by keeping muscles and joints supple and flexible. It is the plant sterols found in aloe vera that help here as they are naturally anti-inflammatory.

Effect On The Skin – From the inside – Aloe Vera essentially has anti-aging properties as it increases the activity of fibroblasts – the cells that make collagen and elastin. Our bodies produce less of these as we get older so taking aloe vera can actually help to keep you looking younger.The vitamins found in aloe vera also help to protect against damage such as premature aging caused by free radicals, something produced naturally by the body. The basal cells of the skin are better nourished by aloe vera keeping skin healthy and looking its best. Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacies and Health Stores vitamin range BENEVITS which offers supplements that are high in quality but low in price starts from only €2.95. Included in the range is Aloe vera juice for only €6.95 for a 500ml bottle.

The daily recommended does is 15ml three times per day. BENEVITS is available in all Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacies & Health Stores or can be purchased online at www.molloyspharmacy.com

Vitamin range with

High in Quality Low in Price Range star!ng from only €2.95

Value packs available Available from all Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacies & Health Stores Ballina: Bunree Rd 096 60340 • Garden St 096 21375 Roscommon: Ballaghaderreen 094 987 7520 • Harrison Centre Roscommon Town 090 663 7604

Or buy online www.molloyspharmacy.com

Sports

Sports for baby boomers Once upon a time, when people reached 50 years old, golf was just about the only sport anyone played.

If golf wasn't an option, people could still try bowls, shuffle board or checkers. Times have changed. athletes are more likely to break bones and tear ligaments. Wear a helmet to protect your head and use wrist and knee braces for support. Remember that the sports you practiced when you were younger may not offer you the varied workout you need as a boomer. While you can still play team sports such as tennis, hockey, softball or basketball, there are alternative ways to exercise that are particularly valuable to boomers.

Try Something New You don't need to run a punishing marathon to get a workout. Try different types of exercise and cross train for the best results. For help with flexibility and balance, enroll in a yoga class or practice the ancient martial art of Tai Chi. Have you ever heard of paddle boarding? This new sport requires

T

he baby boomer generation is known for being physically fit and remaining athletic and active.

Boomers are training as triathletes, marathon runners and mountain climbers in greater numbers than any generation before them. Most boomers can look forward to decades of participation in sports and fitness activities, but bodies do change and boomers can stay active longer if they listen to their bodies and make sure their activities are appropriate to their age group.

Boomeritis After a certain age, you begin to hear or experience the symptoms of tendonitis, bursitis and arthritis. However, you may not be familiar with the term "boomeritis." "Boomeritis" is a syndrome experienced by boomers who develop injuries and suffer strain while overdoing exercise. "Weekend warriors" who expect

Page 20 Mature Living April 2013

their bodies to perform at top speed when they haven't moved a muscle since last week can also expect their bodies to object. Aching muscles and torn ligaments shouldn't surprise older athletes who think they don't need to warm up aging muscles, or who believe their bodies should perform like a teenager's. Boomers who don't exercise appropriately pop up at their doctor's office more frequently and come home with the same diagnosis: "boomeritis."

The Fabulous Four Boomers who want their bodies to perform in top condition need to address four areas of fitness. Flexibility, cardiovascular exercise, balance and strengthening provide a vital combination that keeps joints lubricated, ligaments stretched and the heart and lungs in shape. The right equipment is also important. Older

Aching muscles and torn ligaments shouldn't surprise older athletes who think they don't need to warm up aging muscles, or who believe their bodies should perform like a teenager's.

strength and balance and will improve your core and upper body strength.

Pilates is another workout that strengthens the core muscles and is a great way to protect you from back injuries. Swimming is an all-body work out that offers superb cardiovascular exercise without stressful impact on your joints.

Help Yourself Years of exercise will naturally put wear and tear on your joints. You can help prevent debilitating knee, elbow and back injuries by strengthening surrounding muscle groups that offer support to a potential problem area. If you experience pain while working out, don't push through the discomfort. Listen to your body and ease up. If the pain lingers, see a medical professional.

Experts advise boomers to pay attention to changes in their bodies and take care of aches and pains before they turn into serious problems. If you have a deteriorating joint, for example, have it replaced before the condition worsens.

Security Feature with Power Right Ltd, Sligo

Burglary prevention tips from Power Right Security H ome burglaries are not random as some people think, they involve a selection process by the burglar. An average burglar will search for an unoccupied home with easy access, good cover and good escape routes.

They will also check if the premises is alarmed or has any other type of security, and often skip alarmed houses for easier less secure premises.

The majority of break-ins occur during work hours while most people are at work.

The summer months of July and August have statistically been the worst for burglaries with February having the fewest crimes. Most burglars are looking for small items that are expensive and can easily be converted to cash. Favourite items include; laptop’s, jewellery, small electronic items and cash.

This first part of protecting you home deals with hardening the target and making your home more difficult to enter. Remember, the burglar will simply bypass your home if it involves too much effort or requires more skill and tools than they possess so we will start this guide with some valuable tips to protect your doors against entry.

Experienced burglars know that the garage door is often the easiest point of entry and will often break into the garage first to look inside your car for keys and other valuables.

They will also try to find tools and equipment they can use to break into the main house. Ensure your garage or shed is securely locked with high

quality deadbolts or mortise locks. A high quality deadbolt lock will have a bevelled casing to stop the use of “channel pick” pliers used to shear off lock cylinder pins, while a high quality mortise lock will resist “slipping” or “shimming” with a credit card.

The most common way to force entry through a door with a wooden jamb is to simply kick it open.

The weakest point is almost always the lock strike plate that holds the latch or lock bolt in place.

The average door strike plate is secured only by the soft-wood doorjamb moulding.

These lightweight mouldings are often tacked on to the door frame and can be torn away with a firm kick.

Because of this flaw, it makes sense to upgrade to a four-screw, heavy-duty, high security strike plate. They are available in most quality hardware stores and home improvement centres and are definitely worth the expense.

Install this heavy-duty strike plate using 3-inch wood screws to cut deep into the door frame stud.

Use these longer screws in the knob lock strike plate as well and use at least one long screw in each door hinge.

These few steps alone will deter or prevent most through-the-door forced entries. You and your family will sleep safer in the future.

Stay tuned for the next instalment where we will discuss hardening your windows and other openings….

The Mall, Sligo (Across from general Hospital) Tel: 071-914-5107 Fax: 071-914-7096 E: info@powerrightalarms.com W: www.powerrightalarms.com

Providing Peace of Mind Since 1982

• Panic Bu!ons • Medical Pendents / Watches • Carbon Monoxide Alarms • Smoke Alarms • Intruder Alarms

• CCTV and Keyholding Service • View your CCTV on iPhone, Smartphone or Laptop • Access Control • Electric gates

OAP Discounts Available ­ Ask for details Page 21 Mature Living April 2013

OVER 50’ s GOLDEN YEAR BREAKS

Enjoy 3 nights, Dinner, Bed and Breakfast plus 1 Cruise on Lough Corrib & 1 Tour to Knock Shrine Arrive on a Sunday, get Sun FREE B&B - Dates: 13th May or 3rd June, Mon 2nd or 15th September or Mon 6th or 13th October

only €209.00 per person sharing

MID WEEK OFFER APRIL & MAY Enjoy 2 Nights Bed and Breakfast with 1 Evening Meal

only €79.00pps

DINE & STAY FANTASTIC 1 NIGHT TREAT 1 Night Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

only €99.00 per couple - Dates: Friday 26th April or Friday 10th May 2013

* Locally owned and managed *Ideally located in the heart of the West of Ireland *103 Luxury Bedrooms * Fully Leisure Facilities Including Swimming Pool *Kiddies Pool *Chique Health & Beauty * Live Entertainment on Fri & Sat Nights

To Book Contact 094 9378000 or www.mcwilliampark.ie • Claremorris, Co.Mayo Quote Mature Living when booking to avail of these offers (All offers subject to availability )

Fashion tips from EJ Menswear Sligo

Classic style Is Timeless

Written by Rodney Munn.

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here are many brand names that captured the imagination of people from around the world and have become icons in their own right like, COCA COLA, ROLLS ROYCE, NIKE, APPLE, MANCHESTER UNITED, etc. these are names from different areas of life, all of which have endured and are associated with success. People have even become brands in themselves, David Beckam, Tom Cruise, Beyoncé Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga, Robbie Williams; successful names have spawned other businesses that can be marketed worldwide.

As in these examples the same can be said of the clothing industry, whole style

and fashion empires have been built around a name, Hugo Boss, Paul Smith, Tommy Hilfiger, Vivienne Westwood, John Rocha, and probably the best known of them all is Ralph Lauren who has enveloped the complete package from men’s wear, ladie’s wear and childrens wear, accessories, sportswear, home wear; you name, he has it for the person or your home.

Ralph Lauren as we now know him was born Ralph Lipshitz, on October 14 1939, in the Bronx New York. Ralph became interested in clothes from an early age and while at Dewitt Clinton high school in new york he worked part-time in department stores, and saved his money to buy, yes you guessed it.... clothes. He then in the mid 50s changed his name to Lauren, as he had to suffer some abuse about his name as you could imagine.

After graduating from high School he worked as a salesman and began studying business at night.

Then in 1967 Lauren was hired by Beau Brummel to design ties, his colorful ties were wider than the common narrow dark ties then available, but they sold well and started a new trend. He then started by himself introducing ties into department stores and replenishing these as needed.

After this small success he added more men’s lines and women’s tailored suits under the trade name of Polo, thus Polo Ralph Lauren was born. All these had an English and American influence, which has now become synonymous with Ralph

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Lauren. Then in 1971 Lauren opened his first retail store, followed by many more including small shops within big department stores. Customers continued to fall in love with the brand and by 1997 he was the best selling designer in the world.

Ralph Lauren has been quoted as saying "Classic to me is something that’s timeless, enduring the things that never go out of style. Polo, the kinds of clothes I design are the kinds of things that I believe in, the kinds of things that last forever. I love things that stay." This is a very accurate statement because as fashions come and go in our trade there are certain styles of Ralph Lauren clothing that remain timeless as in the patterns of shirts, the ever present navy V-neck sweater, the perennial polo shirts with that unmistakable logo. This season’s spring/summer range is no exception, the

classic candy stripe shirts with the contrasting logo in navy, light blue, pink and that lovely Oxford cloth in blue, a nice soft green and pink also. Shirts come with extra buttons, extra stiffeners for the collars and are truly an elegant addition to any man’s wardrobe. The knitwear is luxuriant soft cotton in standard and also new colours. Those classic Polo shirts we mentioned earlier have come in a number of new colors that have added life to the range. You can, of course, visit our Facebook and website to check out our new range. Each season he tells a story, and generally he is enticing us into his world, which is one of tradition, elegance and style, pieces of clothing that will not date but look good every time we take it from the wardrobe. Ralph Lauren takes up a prominent place in our store and we at EJ MENSWEAR are proud to stock the brand!

Memories

T

The Bands of our Showband Era

Article and Photos courtesy of Gerry Gallagher www.irish-showbands.com

here were hundreds of them. Irish bands of every size, description and musical genre travelling the roads and borheens of Ireland. They travelled the length and breadth of the country from the 1950's through the mid 1980's. Although "officially" the term showband was coined in the late fifties and was used to describe bands that played a wide variety of music and usually included a "show" during the night, the term was gradually applied to all the bands that played in the 1960's. As the

Irish music scene splintered in the late sixties into pop, country bands, the term was dropped but we still find it the best overall description of the bands of the "ballroom" era. In the early days, they travelled in whatever they could find...bread vans, hearses, and even cars (roof racks and all). In later years, many (if not most) of them travelled in converted Ford Transit vans (like the one pictured right) that were normally used for delivery services.

After a couple of windows were popped into the centre panels, a

The Big Valley

row or two of old airplane seats were installed and the band was ready to travel "in style." Although style was a matter of opinion...if you're stuck in the back of a van on a cold and rainy winter's night, it may seem like "a long way to Tipperary," but it's even further to Castletownbere, Co. Cork!

It will be impossible to list all the bands that played the dance halls, ballrooms, marquees, parochial halls, community centres, hotels, and town halls across Ireland but each month we are

T

Page 24 Mature Living April 2013

sisters Anne and Pat. Other family members, including brothers Barry and Liam, and younger sister Jacqui also joined the group in later years. Jan met Top Rank owner, Tony Loughman, through family friend Dan O'Hara of the Country Flavour.

In the November issue of Entertainment news, an advert appeared for Frank Coll and The Big valley listing their dates in November and into December. On the 12th of November, they were booked to play the "Indian Show" in Castleblaney. On the previous evening, the band had appeared in Invern, Co. Galway.

Jan picks up the story (from a January 1974 artiucle in Entertainment News), "I arrived in Castleblaney on a Monday afternoon and after a few hours rehearsal with The Big Valley, I was asked to appear with them that night. We were to take part in the "Indians Show" and

number of bands that the country produced. Almost as hard to imagine, is the number of dance halls that once dotted the countryside, many out in the "middle of nowhere." Pick up next months issue for another blast from the blast from the showband era...

Top singles - 1976

Left to right: Seamus McNeill (drums), Michael Lynch (sax), Jimmy Smith (guitar), Tony Fox (keyboards), Gerry Black (vocals/guitar), Barry Lynch (bass) and Shelley (vocals).

he Big Valley was a relatively short lived country showband which hit the road at the beginning of 1972 in a blaze of publicity. Fronting the band was Frank Coll, brother of showband legend Brian Coll of the Plattermen. During the first year, the band released several singles and trade magazines reported that the band was one of the busiest on the circuit. They toured England and were generally tipped to be one of the "bands to watch" in the future.

Janvier "Jan" Lynch came from a very musical family from Pomeroy, Co. Tyrone. In fact, even her grandparents were involved in the Irish entertainment scene. Jan started playing in and around her home town before she was ten years old as part of The Lynch Family. The group included her father (an excellent accordionist), mother, Jan, and

planning to feature a band from the west with the help of Gerry Gallagher and www.irish-showbands.com . Apart from a few who enjoy near mythical status (such as the Royal Showband and a handful of others), most bands came together, played for a few years and then either reinvented themselves, changed their name, or just disappeared, their members either returning to civilian life, or scattering to two or three new bands.

For such a small country, it is difficult to comprehend the sheer

All editorial and photographs are kindly supplied by Gerry Gallagher from www.irish-shownbands.com Over the years Gerry has built up what can only be describe as the definitive guide to the showband era.

I would like to thank Gerry for allowing us to reproduce the articles and photos in Mature Living. If you would like to know more about your favourite band or who was number one in a particular year visit www.irish-showbands.com

the Lyric Theatre was packed, with hundreds of people turned away. Everything went well for me that night and I got wonderful help from the huge audience. Afterwards it was confirmed that I was to join the band and it was the happiest day of my life."

The band was re-launched days later with Jan as the lead singer. There was never any mention about Frank Coll, or his sudden

disappearance, in fact, he seemed to just disappear from the scene altogether.

For a short time, the band was billed as the Big Valley All Star Showband, but they soon became Shelly and the Big Valley. The band's lineup included Butch McNeill (drums), Tony Fox (keyboards), Jimmy Smith (guitar Jimmy was Gloria's brother and would later gain individual fame as a founder of rock

1. Horslips - Daybreak (Oats) 2. Jamie Stone - I Believe In Love (EMI) 3. Cotton Mill Boys - The Wedding Song (Hawk) 4. Swarbriggs - Joanne (EMI) 5. Joe Dolan - Sister Mary (Release) 6. Johnny McEvoy - Long Before Your Time (Hawk) 7. Red Hurley - Tennessee Special (Release) 8. Freshmen - And God Created Woman [Reissue] (CBS) 9. Anna McGoldrick - Let There Be Peace On Earth (Bonus) 10. Des Lee & Miami - Hold On To Love (Mint) 11. Cotton Mill Boys - Raining In My Heart (Hawk) 12. Tina & Nevada - I'd Do It All Again (Release) 13. Margo - Through the Eyes of A Child (Release) 14. Brendan Bowyer & Royal Showband - The Hucklebuck 15. Brendan Shine - All My Roads Lead Back To You (play) 16. Red Hurley - Broken Promises (Release) 17. Loudest Whisper - You and I (Polydor) 18. Red Hurley - When (Release) 19. Shaun O'Dowd & Ding-a-ling - Bye Bye Fraulein (Release) 20. Brendan Grace - Where Have They Gone (Solo) Shelley and the "Big Valley All Star Showband" in 1973 before adding Gerry Black to the lineup. 21. Danny Doyle - Somewhere Somebody's Waiting (Music Box) 22. Anna McGoldrick - When A Child Is Born (Bonus) 23. Joe Cuddy - Don't Let Life Get You Down (Rex) group, The Bogey Boys), Michael Lynch (sax the band had shifted from its country roots to 24. Brendan Shine - Turn Out the Lights (Play) - son of famous band leader, Maurice Lynch), follow a more pop oriented programme.

25. Tom Dunphy & Royal Showband - If I Didn't Have A Dime Aiden McGuigan (bass), Martin Coll (guitar Manager, Tony Loughman, explained the 26. Ray Lynam & Hillbillies - You're the One I Sing My Love....

Martin was brother of Frank and Brian of switch saying that "because of the success of 27. Brian Coll - The Farmer (Release) Buckaroos fame) and of course, Jan. the Paddy Cole Band with their all-kinds of 28. Larry Cunningham & Margo - Hello Mr. Peters (Release) Within a couple of weeks of Shelley cut her music repertoire, I saw the demand was there first record, Love At Eleven. She was featured for a pop type band." Although Shelley started 29. Dermot O'Brien - Skibbereen (Release) heavily in Entertainment magazines and like belting out Suzi Quatro songs, Gerry Black 30. Top 10 Big Band - Dolanz Melodie (Play) the original launch of the band, the new lineup stuck to his country roots.

31. Sandy Duskey - Love Me Just A Little Bit More (Hawk) was announced in a blaze of publicity by Tony In early 1975, Tony Fox and Jimmy Smith 32. Benny White & Times - Hold On (Release) Loughman and the Top Rank organization. left the band and Noel Cunningham (guitar) 33. Ronnie Medford & Nevada - Bump Bump (Release) Quickly, Shelly's first release was followed by came into the band from The Down Country.

34. Philomena Begley - Once Around the Dance Floor (Top Spin) an album, Shelly Sings. The band continued to Later in the year Gerry Black left the band 35. Fairways - Come Back Billy Jo (Hawk) do very well. Within a few months, Aiden and and Declan Colgan (keyboards) and Mickey 36. Bill Ryan & Buckshot - Midnight In the Morning (Release) Martin lewft the band. They were replaced by Quinn (sax) became the final pieces of the 37. DJ Curtin - Jacqueline (Release) Barry Lynch on bass (Jan's brother) and Gerry band's final lineup. In early 1976, Top Rank 38.

Larry Cunningham - Annaghdown (Release) Black, who had been fronting his own band, decided that the time was right for Jan and her 39. Arthur Murphy - That Lucky Old Sun (Release) The Seasons, on guitar and vocals. sister, Anne (who had been fronting the 40. Tommy Drennan & Top League - If Dreams Come True With Shelley and Gerry Black, the band Swinging Marines) should join forces. The 41. Cathal Dunne - Danny (EMI) now had a substantial powerhouse vocal new band would be called, Jan, Anne and the 42. Brendan Shine - Wrong Road Again (Play) lineup. They released their first single, United Marines (I guess they no longer were We Stand. In 1974 the band also appeared at "Swinging.") The Big Valley played its final 43. John Glen & Mainliners - Call Me Darling (Misty) the Top Rank 4 day Country Music festival date on Sunday, February 15, 1976. Jan, 44. Benny White & Times - Sexy Lady (Release) alongside all the biggest country stars of the brother Barry and Seamus McNeill went to 45. Brian Harkin & Plainsmen - Rambling Boy (Release) day. Things were going very well for the the reforming Marines. Meanwhile Noel 46. Harvest - Morning Sky (Release) band. An article in Spotlight's March 6, 1975 Cunningham joined with Hugo Duncan and 47. Penny McLean - Lady Bump (Release) issue proclaimed the band had gone from the Tallmen, while Michael Lunch went to 48. Bray City Rollers - Love By Numbers (Polydor) "country to cat suits." It went on to detail how Susan McCann and the Storytellers.

49. Memories - Skyin' (Stop)

Page 25 Mature Living April 2013

Memories

T

The Bands of our Showband Era

Article and Photos courtesy of Gerry Gallagher www.irish-showbands.com

here were hundreds of them. Irish bands of every size, description and musical genre travelling the roads and borheens of Ireland. They travelled the length and breadth of the country from the 1950's through the mid 1980's. Although "officially" the term showband was coined in the late fifties and was used to describe bands that played a wide variety of music and usually included a "show" during the night, the term was gradually applied to all the bands that played in the 1960's. As the

Irish music scene splintered in the late sixties into pop, country bands, the term was dropped but we still find it the best overall description of the bands of the "ballroom" era. In the early days, they travelled in whatever they could find...bread vans, hearses, and even cars (roof racks and all). In later years, many (if not most) of them travelled in converted Ford Transit vans (like the one pictured right) that were normally used for delivery services.

After a couple of windows were popped into the centre panels, a

The Big Valley

row or two of old airplane seats were installed and the band was ready to travel "in style." Although style was a matter of opinion...if you're stuck in the back of a van on a cold and rainy winter's night, it may seem like "a long way to Tipperary," but it's even further to Castletownbere, Co. Cork!

It will be impossible to list all the bands that played the dance halls, ballrooms, marquees, parochial halls, community centres, hotels, and town halls across Ireland but each month we are

T

Page 24 Mature Living April 2013

sisters Anne and Pat. Other family members, including brothers Barry and Liam, and younger sister Jacqui also joined the group in later years. Jan met Top Rank owner, Tony Loughman, through family friend Dan O'Hara of the Country Flavour.

In the November issue of Entertainment news, an advert appeared for Frank Coll and The Big valley listing their dates in November and into December. On the 12th of November, they were booked to play the "Indian Show" in Castleblaney. On the previous evening, the band had appeared in Invern, Co. Galway.

Jan picks up the story (from a January 1974 artiucle in Entertainment News), "I arrived in Castleblaney on a Monday afternoon and after a few hours rehearsal with The Big Valley, I was asked to appear with them that night. We were to take part in the "Indians Show" and

number of bands that the country produced. Almost as hard to imagine, is the number of dance halls that once dotted the countryside, many out in the "middle of nowhere." Pick up next months issue for another blast from the blast from the showband era...

Top singles - 1976

Left to right: Seamus McNeill (drums), Michael Lynch (sax), Jimmy Smith (guitar), Tony Fox (keyboards), Gerry Black (vocals/guitar), Barry Lynch (bass) and Shelley (vocals).

he Big Valley was a relatively short lived country showband which hit the road at the beginning of 1972 in a blaze of publicity. Fronting the band was Frank Coll, brother of showband legend Brian Coll of the Plattermen. During the first year, the band released several singles and trade magazines reported that the band was one of the busiest on the circuit. They toured England and were generally tipped to be one of the "bands to watch" in the future.

Janvier "Jan" Lynch came from a very musical family from Pomeroy, Co. Tyrone. In fact, even her grandparents were involved in the Irish entertainment scene. Jan started playing in and around her home town before she was ten years old as part of The Lynch Family. The group included her father (an excellent accordionist), mother, Jan, and

planning to feature a band from the west with the help of Gerry Gallagher and www.irish-showbands.com . Apart from a few who enjoy near mythical status (such as the Royal Showband and a handful of others), most bands came together, played for a few years and then either reinvented themselves, changed their name, or just disappeared, their members either returning to civilian life, or scattering to two or three new bands.

For such a small country, it is difficult to comprehend the sheer

All editorial and photographs are kindly supplied by Gerry Gallagher from www.irish-shownbands.com Over the years Gerry has built up what can only be describe as the definitive guide to the showband era.

I would like to thank Gerry for allowing us to reproduce the articles and photos in Mature Living. If you would like to know more about your favourite band or who was number one in a particular year visit www.irish-showbands.com

the Lyric Theatre was packed, with hundreds of people turned away. Everything went well for me that night and I got wonderful help from the huge audience. Afterwards it was confirmed that I was to join the band and it was the happiest day of my life."

The band was re-launched days later with Jan as the lead singer. There was never any mention about Frank Coll, or his sudden

disappearance, in fact, he seemed to just disappear from the scene altogether.

For a short time, the band was billed as the Big Valley All Star Showband, but they soon became Shelly and the Big Valley. The band's lineup included Butch McNeill (drums), Tony Fox (keyboards), Jimmy Smith (guitar Jimmy was Gloria's brother and would later gain individual fame as a founder of rock

1. Horslips - Daybreak (Oats) 2. Jamie Stone - I Believe In Love (EMI) 3. Cotton Mill Boys - The Wedding Song (Hawk) 4. Swarbriggs - Joanne (EMI) 5. Joe Dolan - Sister Mary (Release) 6. Johnny McEvoy - Long Before Your Time (Hawk) 7. Red Hurley - Tennessee Special (Release) 8. Freshmen - And God Created Woman [Reissue] (CBS) 9. Anna McGoldrick - Let There Be Peace On Earth (Bonus) 10. Des Lee & Miami - Hold On To Love (Mint) 11. Cotton Mill Boys - Raining In My Heart (Hawk) 12. Tina & Nevada - I'd Do It All Again (Release) 13. Margo - Through the Eyes of A Child (Release) 14. Brendan Bowyer & Royal Showband - The Hucklebuck 15. Brendan Shine - All My Roads Lead Back To You (play) 16. Red Hurley - Broken Promises (Release) 17. Loudest Whisper - You and I (Polydor) 18. Red Hurley - When (Release) 19. Shaun O'Dowd & Ding-a-ling - Bye Bye Fraulein (Release) 20. Brendan Grace - Where Have They Gone (Solo) Shelley and the "Big Valley All Star Showband" in 1973 before adding Gerry Black to the lineup. 21. Danny Doyle - Somewhere Somebody's Waiting (Music Box) 22. Anna McGoldrick - When A Child Is Born (Bonus) 23. Joe Cuddy - Don't Let Life Get You Down (Rex) group, The Bogey Boys), Michael Lynch (sax the band had shifted from its country roots to 24. Brendan Shine - Turn Out the Lights (Play) - son of famous band leader, Maurice Lynch), follow a more pop oriented programme.

25. Tom Dunphy & Royal Showband - If I Didn't Have A Dime Aiden McGuigan (bass), Martin Coll (guitar Manager, Tony Loughman, explained the 26. Ray Lynam & Hillbillies - You're the One I Sing My Love....

Martin was brother of Frank and Brian of switch saying that "because of the success of 27. Brian Coll - The Farmer (Release) Buckaroos fame) and of course, Jan. the Paddy Cole Band with their all-kinds of 28. Larry Cunningham & Margo - Hello Mr. Peters (Release) Within a couple of weeks of Shelley cut her music repertoire, I saw the demand was there first record, Love At Eleven. She was featured for a pop type band." Although Shelley started 29. Dermot O'Brien - Skibbereen (Release) heavily in Entertainment magazines and like belting out Suzi Quatro songs, Gerry Black 30. Top 10 Big Band - Dolanz Melodie (Play) the original launch of the band, the new lineup stuck to his country roots.

31. Sandy Duskey - Love Me Just A Little Bit More (Hawk) was announced in a blaze of publicity by Tony In early 1975, Tony Fox and Jimmy Smith 32. Benny White & Times - Hold On (Release) Loughman and the Top Rank organization. left the band and Noel Cunningham (guitar) 33. Ronnie Medford & Nevada - Bump Bump (Release) Quickly, Shelly's first release was followed by came into the band from The Down Country.

34. Philomena Begley - Once Around the Dance Floor (Top Spin) an album, Shelly Sings. The band continued to Later in the year Gerry Black left the band 35. Fairways - Come Back Billy Jo (Hawk) do very well. Within a few months, Aiden and and Declan Colgan (keyboards) and Mickey 36. Bill Ryan & Buckshot - Midnight In the Morning (Release) Martin lewft the band. They were replaced by Quinn (sax) became the final pieces of the 37. DJ Curtin - Jacqueline (Release) Barry Lynch on bass (Jan's brother) and Gerry band's final lineup. In early 1976, Top Rank 38.

Larry Cunningham - Annaghdown (Release) Black, who had been fronting his own band, decided that the time was right for Jan and her 39. Arthur Murphy - That Lucky Old Sun (Release) The Seasons, on guitar and vocals. sister, Anne (who had been fronting the 40. Tommy Drennan & Top League - If Dreams Come True With Shelley and Gerry Black, the band Swinging Marines) should join forces. The 41. Cathal Dunne - Danny (EMI) now had a substantial powerhouse vocal new band would be called, Jan, Anne and the 42. Brendan Shine - Wrong Road Again (Play) lineup. They released their first single, United Marines (I guess they no longer were We Stand. In 1974 the band also appeared at "Swinging.") The Big Valley played its final 43. John Glen & Mainliners - Call Me Darling (Misty) the Top Rank 4 day Country Music festival date on Sunday, February 15, 1976. Jan, 44. Benny White & Times - Sexy Lady (Release) alongside all the biggest country stars of the brother Barry and Seamus McNeill went to 45. Brian Harkin & Plainsmen - Rambling Boy (Release) day. Things were going very well for the the reforming Marines. Meanwhile Noel 46. Harvest - Morning Sky (Release) band. An article in Spotlight's March 6, 1975 Cunningham joined with Hugo Duncan and 47. Penny McLean - Lady Bump (Release) issue proclaimed the band had gone from the Tallmen, while Michael Lunch went to 48. Bray City Rollers - Love By Numbers (Polydor) "country to cat suits." It went on to detail how Susan McCann and the Storytellers.

49. Memories - Skyin' (Stop)

Page 25 Mature Living April 2013

Travel

Round-the-world travel is not just for people taking a year out from studying – adventure travel is becoming more popular than ever with the over 50s, as empty nesters begin to enjoy making their own choices and strive to tick off items from their ‘I’ve always wanted to…’ list.

W

hether you are travelling alone or with others, once you have bought your ticket the thought of travelling can suddenly feel very daunting. Here are some top tips and advice to help fully prepare you, so that you can be confident you’ll have the trip of a lifetime.

Swot up Read as much as you can about your destinations, this way you will know more about what to expect and how to prepare yourself. It will also mean that you are less likely to miss seeing what you want.

Use trusted websites for accurate information. For instance, G Adventures has a travel guide section with information for all the popular travelling destinations, including cultural and historical information, places to see, and festivals and events. It also has practical information worth reviewing on topics such as health issues, weather information and pre departure practicalities.

Supplement information from trusted websites with advice from other

Page 26 Mature Living April 2013

travellers where you can directly ask about others’ experiences. Forums can be great for getting a feel for places, but it is best to double check factual information with additional sources.

Make it easy to keep in contact Get yourself and your family Skype accounts. Skype is a cheap way to make calls abroad, and with a webcam you can also see each other (perfect for showing off the great tan you’ll have).

Bring hard copies of pictures of your family. These are more accessible and will feel more real than looking at digital versions online if you happen to miss those you’ve left behind.

If you enjoy writing, you may want to set yourself up with a blogging platform.

Wordpress accounts are easy to set up, or there are travel specific ones such as Trip Journal, Travellers Point or TravelPod which allows you to map your journey.

While you are at home with easy access to the internet, play with the design until you are happy and let people know the address, so as soon as you leave you can begin recording your experiences.

withdraw funds no matter where you are in the world, but it is a good idea to have a back-up way of withdrawing money (for instance travellers’ cheques). Keep them in separate places, this way, if you lose one, you always have the other.

If you do get stranded without money, you can always have relatives transfer you some through Western Union, as long as you have ID with you, so remember to keep your emergency contact’s details handy just in case if you get stuck.

Choose a photo upload site, like Flickr, so you can upload pictures as you go – it will not only show everyone what you are up to, but it acts as a good backup should anything happen to your camera. You can also upload photos to Facebook, however, the quality is fairly low so Flickr may be a better option if you want to print them in the future.

If you have a planned itinerary, leave a copy at home so friends and relatives can feel safe knowing where you are. Mark times when you think contacting them may be difficult so they don’t worry if you don’t get in touch for a while. It is also a good idea to leave photocopies of your

Get company If you are still worried about travelling, surround yourself with like-minded people.

Group travel and tours are a fantastic way to travel where the organisation of getting from A to B, arranging accommodation and visiting highlights is all sorted for you. Many people feel much safer travelling in groups and long-lasting friendships can often be made with like-minded travellers. Research adventure travel tour operators to find a company that suits you and your needs.

passport and plane tickets with an emergency contact. You should also consider providing your country’s embassy with a copy of your planned itinerary and contact information.

Get street wise It may sound geeky, but buy a money pouch. They really come in handy when you don’t have a safe place to keep your money. If you can get one that is fairly big but you are still able to sleep with, it will be useful in keeping your valuables safe overnight if the hostel has no locker.

Make sure you have different ways of accessing money. With most banks you can

Page 27 Mature Living April 2013

Food and Drink

Spaghetti Bolognese

Probably the most famous Italian pasta dish, bolognese is a rich combination of meat, vegetables, herbs & red wine How to Cook Spaghetti Step 1: Bringing the water to boiling Fill a large pot with plenty of cold water (use 3 quarts water for 4 to 8 ounces dried spaghetti).

If desired, add a little salt to the water for seasoning. Some people add a tablespoon of olive oil or cooking oil to the water to keep the spaghetti from sticking together, but this isn't necessary as long as you use enough water and stir the spaghetti occasionally during cooking.

The downside of using oil in the water is that it tends to keep the sauce from adhering to the pasta. Bring the water to boiling.

Step 2: Adding the spaghetti Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti a little at a time so the water doesn't stop boiling. Reduce the heat slightly so the water doesn't boil over; boil, uncovered, until the spaghetti is al dente, using the package directions as a guide for timing.

Ingredients 55 g streaky bacon (diced) 120 ml good olive oil 1 onion (finely diced) 1 stick celery (finely diced) 1 carrot (finely diced) 2 garlic cloves (crushed with a little salt) 1 bay leaf 1 tsp soft fresh thyme leaves 1 tsp dried oregano 400 g can chopped tomatoes x 5 900 g minced beef 110 g fresh chicken liver (finely chopped) 750 ml dry red wine 1 l chicken, beef or lamb stock salt and ground black pepper Method In a large, heavy-based pan, fry the bacon in 2 tbsp of the olive oil. When the bacon is crispy and has released some natural fats, add the onion, celery, carrot, garlic, thyme, bay leaf and oregano and cook over a medium heat until the vegetables have softened and taken on a little colour.

Add the canned tomatoes, the tomato purĂŠe, anchovy essence and Worcestershire sauce.

Stir to combine.

Meanwhile, in a large frying pan, heat another 2 tbsp of the olive oil and fry the mince in small batches until browned.

While the meat is frying, break up any lumps with the back of a wooden spoon.

Repeat until all the mince is browned.

Drain off any fat and add to the tomato mixture.

Add 2 tbsp of the oil to the same frying pan, fry the chicken livers until brown and crusty and add the livers to the meat.

Deglaze the frying pan with some of the red wine, scraping any crusty bits from the bottom. Pour this wine, the remaining wine and the stock into the tomato and meat mixture. Bring to the boil, reduce the heat and simmer, stirring from time to time, for about 2 hours. Season to taste. If the liquid reduces too much, top up with water. When the meat is tender allow to cool, then chill.

When cold, lift off the solidified fat and discard.

Did you Know Although spaghetti often refers to a pasta dish with tomato sauce, it is really just the name of the pasta shape. Spaghetti is an Italian name for long, thin strings of pasta, usually made of semolina flour and water. Because of its shape, spaghetti pairs well with light and thin sauces that will cling to the pasta.

Spaghetti shopping It used to be that buying dried spaghetti meant just choosing a brand, but now

Page 28 Mature Living April 2013

the selections are numerous. Whole wheat and multi-grain spaghettis offer more fibre than the traditional semolina variety. Vegetable pastas, such as spinach or beet, add colorful options. And for gluten-free meals, look for corn, rice, and quinoa spaghettis. As a guide, figure 8 ounces uncooked dried spaghetti for four main-dish servings (4 cups) or 2 ounces dried spaghetti per serving. Store dried spaghetti in the package or in a covered container in a cool, dry place for up to 1 year.

Tip: An easy way to measure dried spaghetti is to use a measuring tool, which has a series of rings that each holds a different portion size of spaghetti.

Step 3: Testing doneness The desired doneness for pasta is called al dente, which is Italian for "to the tooth."

This means cooked until the pasta has a firm, chewy texture. Test near the end of the cooking time by giving the spaghetti a taste. Under-cooked pasta will still have a hard core, and overcooked pasta will be sticky and soggy.

Step 4: Draining and using When the spaghetti is done, drain it in a colander and shake well to remove excess water that would make the sauce runny.

Do not rinse the spaghetti because it removes the light coating of starch that helps the sauce and seasonings cling.

Pasta continues to cook after draining, so try to serve it immediately.

Tip: If your drained spaghetti needs to sit before using, return it to the warm cooking pan (off the heat), toss it with a little butter or olive oil to prevent sticking, and cover for up to 15 minutes.

Whats Cooking with John Kelly of The Riverbank Restaurant, Dromohair

Pan Seared King scallops

Blackpudding springroll, curried butternut squash puree, apple and poppy seed salad Serves 4 Ingredients • 8 king scallops sliced across • 300g Clonakilty blackpudding • 4 sheets of spring roll pastry • 1 butternut squach • 1 tbsp of madras curry paste • 200ml fresh cream • Butter • 1 Granny smith apple • Pinch of poppy seeds • Pea shoots for garnish Methond To Make squash puree Peel and remove any seeds from the squash cut into small dice cover in cold salted water and bring to the boil, when squash is soft and you can easily cut with a knife, strain and return to the stove, add cream, curry paste and a knod of butter, bring to the boil and place in blender blend until smooth and set aside.

WINE GUIDE

Extraordinary Wines at Ordinary Prices with The Wine Buff, Tobergal Lane, Tel: 071 9140020 • www.thewinebuff.com Email: joe@thewinebuff.com

Our red wine for April is Terruno Corcoles Tempranillo It’s the long, tall black bottle from La Mancha – made from the Tempranillo grape and aged in oak for 8 months and spending a further 20 months in the bottle before release. The result is a wine with an attractive dark red colour with cherry reflections throughout.

There are huge aromas of ripe black fruits with mineral and balsamic overtones. On the palate it has a great fruit taste.

Its a seductive wine with a very long finish.

The producers are the Bernal García-Chicote family (father Santiago and his two sons Ángel Luis and Moíses) who run a 19 hectare estate located in the province of Ciudad Real. Their wines are neither fined nor stabilized during the vinification process. They undergo a light filtration prior to bottling, so a heavy sediment is to be expected.

This is a great match for lamb dishes.

Offer price €14.99.

Our white wine for April is Rawen Chardonnay

For the spring rolls roughly chop and shape the blackpudding into small sausage shapes then wrap in spring roll pastry, placing the pudding mix on end and rolling away from you finish by brushing the end with some beaten egg.

For the apple salad slice the apple into juliene or long strips using a mandolin or sharp knife add a squeeze of lemon and some poppy seeds To finish dry scallops on some kitchen paper and cook on a hot pan with little oil 2 min each side is enough any more and thet will become tough finish wuth a knob of butter To plate drop your spring into the fryer gentely heat puree and put a swipe on the plate arrange scallops on plate slice black pudding springroll in three and put on plate then garnish with apple and poppy salad and some pea shoots Happy cooking

Rawen wines come from the vineyards of Ravanal, founded in 1936 by Teodoro Ravanal.

Vina Ravanal is one of the oldest wine estates in the Colchagua Valley, which is located between the Pacific ocean and the Andes mountains in Chile. The family tradition continues with Teodoro’s son Mario, a leading oenologist, and grandchildren, Pia and Mario Sebastian, who have chosen to follow in the family footsteps.

Unoaked, pale yellow in colour, this mouthwatering Chardonnay shows delicate tropical fruit and slight banana aromas, with floral overtones on the nose. The taste is complex, dry and refreshing. It’s a great match for white meats and salads. Offer price €9.99

Page 29 Mature Living April 2013

Petcare

Dates for dog lovers

If you think your dog is a good judge of character, perhaps you should consider taking him with you on your next date. Who would be better qualified to check out a potential mate than your furry best friend

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ou may want to introduce your pooch to your date to get a better sense of whether your date will be compatible, or simply to add a dimension of fun to your outing.

Observe how your date treats your pet. Is your date allergic to dogs? You may want to move on.

Does your date cringe when your wet-nosed pal comes too close? Is he patient when your muddy pup

paws his trousers? If you find someone who loves you and loves your dog, you may have a match made in doggie heaven. Here are a few outings that are well suited for dates with your dog.

The Beach A trip to the beach can be a perfect way to introduce your dog to your date. The two of you can play with the pup on the sand and cool off together in the water. Interacting with the dog can give you common ground and give you a better sense of your date. Is she playful and adventurous or quiet and reserved? Is he squeamish when a soaking wet dog shakes lake water all over him? Read the signs before you let your dog on the sand since many beaches don't allow pets.

Hiking Find an off-leash trail for your dog and bask in the sunshine with your date. Explore new terrain with your canine pal while you get to know your new human friend. Don't forget to stay on the trail. Leaving the path may mean poison ivy for you or a burrs and foxtail for your furry friend.

Dog Park Take your dog to the dog park and grab a bench. You and your date can relax with a picnic while your pet gets plenty of exercise.

Remember to keep an eye on

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your dog. even while you listen intently to your date. If your pet fights with another dog, observe your date's reaction.

Does he try to help? Is he protective of you? The way your date responds may give you insight to his character.

Double Dates If your partner has a pet of their own, you may want to consider a double date with the pooches. It may be best to have the dogs meet on neutral territory, such as at a dog park or on a beach.

Bringing one dog into the other's home can encourage aggressive behaviors. Give them plenty of open space to meet and get accustomed to each other. If you are lucky, your dog will have a new friend and you will have a match.

If you want to keep your pets and progress in your relationship, pay attention to how your date treats her dog. If she treats it like a human and treats you like a dog, you may want to re-think your relationship. If she treats both of you like gold, you may have found a compassionate partner to share in all your adventures.

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Travel Lifestyle

Managing your money – don't end up like Emmerdale's Edna Birch

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op tips on managing your money and how to seek help if you have debts.

As Edna Birch in ITV's Emmerdale struggles to cope financially, it is important to encourage older people not to suffer in silence with money worries and to seek advice.

Stopping work in later life is something that many of us look forward to, but if the choice is not entirely our own – like Edna – or if we haven't put enough money aside, then financial matters can spiral out of control.

It is important to consider how we will afford to live on our pension and whether we are claiming all the benefits that are available.

Everything comes with a cost so it is important to make our money work for us as effectively as possible. Age Action share some of their top tips on managing money and how to go about seeking help with money worries: Speak up: If you're finding it hard to cope financially then don't suffer in silence. If you're aged 60 or over, you could be entitled to benefits that you haven't been able to claim before. These can help you keep your independence and improve your standard of living.

Get a benefits check: Contact your local pensions office to get a benefits check to make sure you're claiming all the money you're entitled to.

Help with keeping warm in winter: If you are struggling to keep warm in winter there are measures you can take to help keep your home warm and bills down. You may be eligible for help with the financial costs of implementing these measures and assistance with your heating costs. Again check with your local welfare office or your local councillor Seek help: If you have debts then it's never too early or too late to seek help. There are organisations to help you who will be sympathetic and understanding. Don't borrow more money to pay off your debts and don't pay for debt advice. Get free advice from your local Citizens Advice Bureau.

Prioritise any debts: 'Priority bills' are the ones for which non-payment could lead to serious trouble. For example, if you don't pay your mortgage, your home could be repossessed. Or if you don't pay your gas or electricity bills, your energy supply could be cut off. Don't panic if

you're behind on any of these bills.

Contact one of the agencies above for help with prioritising your debts.

Work out a household budget: In the longer term, once you've claimed any benefits you may be entitled to, work out

a household budget and ensure your outgoings match your income. Review your spending and think carefully about whether there are any non-essential items you could cut out. Be realistic and don't cut back on essentials like food and heating.

How to put your signature at the bottom of your email Email signatures are an easy way to consistently send your contact information, website or other messages to every person you send an email to.

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his tool is ideal for businesses who want customers and colleagues to know the best ways to contact them or for people looking to promote their websites. Family and friends may type inspirational messages or quotes at the bottom of their emails to add a smile to anyone’s face. Regardless what purpose your email signature has, it is a quick, simple addition to your email account.

Instructions for Gmail: Log into your Gmail email account.

Select “Settings” from the top right corner. On the main page scroll down to the box labeled “Signature” type or paste your message into the box.

Highlight the text to make changes to the font and alignment on the page.

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Instructions for Yahoo!: Log into your Yahoo Mail account. Click “Options” in the top right corner. Select “Mail Options.” Choose “Signature.”

Select “Show a signature on all outgoing messages” and type or paste your message into the box.

Instructions for Hotmail or Windows Live Account: Log into your Hotmail or Windows Live account. Select “Options” followed by “More Options.” Click “Personal Email Signature” and type or paste your message into the box. Highlight the text to change the font size, style and color.

Save your changes.

Health & Beauty

Keep Young & Beautiful Some women will age more slowly than others. This is set by our family DNA, which means there is a strong likelihood that our health and bodies, including our skin, will have the same strengths and weaknesses as those of our family members in much the same way as we inherit eye and hair colour. right products to suit your skin and to keeping it protected and looking its best.

Buying the right skincare product is a bit of a minefield with so many products on the market today and with creams ranging from five pounds to five hundred pounds it’s hard to know were to begin.

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ooking at the parents and seeing how his or her skin aged can be predictor of how we can look in the future. As a makeup artist if I comment on a client’s great skin they often reply, “I got it from my mother”, and in the most part they’re right.

But lifestyle habits also play an important role here. For example, if a parent smoked or worshipped the sun and you never did, your overall health and the appearance of your skin will no doubt reap the benefits.

Knowing our inherent strengths and weaknesses can let us take the most targeted preventative measures. For example, if sagging around the jaw line seems to be a family trait, there are new habits we can adopt such as facial massage every morning and the yoga technique called “the lion” which involves stretching and releasing your facial muscles which will over time help to firm the jaw line.

Our genetics also give us a good indication of which beauty treatments could be the most effective for us. For example, if family members have been using an ingredient successfully without irritation, there is an excellent chance that it will have similar benefits for us.

However in saying that, if your mother only used soap and water this might not be sufficient to prevent the ever increasing pollutants and UVA rays from the sun that will affect your skin in this modern age. The sun, wind, stress, not sleeping enough, eating an unhealthy diet, and many other habits will show up on our faces. By making certain changes in our daily routines, we not only can improve our overall health but also the condition of our skin. It’s never too late to make improvements, choosing the

Page 32 Mature Living April 2013

Here now are my 5 Top Tips for picking the right skin care product for you.

1. Make sure you have sun protection minimum factor 15 either in your makeup or in your day cream to put on every day.

2. Choose a richer cream for night time as this is when your skin renews itself.

3. Always use an eye cream around your eyes. Don’t use your face moisturiser as it is too rich and may cause puffiness and eye bags.

4. Buying a good cleanser is just as important as your moisturiser. That “squeaky clean feel” is not always a good thing and may mean your cleanser is too harsh and is stripping away your natural oils. Aim for something that makes your skin feel clean and soft. I like cream or oil cleanser that you use with water.

5. Don’t exfoliate every day. It takes 2-3 days for your skin cells to renew and if

you exfoliate every day you don’t allow those bright new cells to form. It can also make your skin more sensitive to outside elements leading to more damage.

Beauty isn’t only skin deep. It’s incredible what a bit of makeup can do for our confidence. Putting our best foot forward as they say can lift your spirits and make us feel better about ourselves.

As our face’s change, so must the way we apply our makeup. We wouldn’t wear

the same clothes for 50 years so why would we wear the same makeup? Often I find my mature clients become either too scared to wear any makeup in case they look like mutton dressed as lamb, or they do the opposite and pile it on thinking the more they wear the younger they look which is not the case. Makeup applied correctly can be like pain-free plastic surgery – it’s amazing how a slighter fuller brow or a soft rosy cheek can take years off you!

Health & Beauty

Eat well to beat arthritis Anyone who suffers from arthritis knows it is painful and unpredictable. You may expect a flare-up after a hard workout or when the weather changes. But some days, your arthritis may seem worse for no apparent reason. shrimp, dairy products, wheat, yeast, gluten and corn. There are two camps regarding the nightshade vegetables such as tomatoes, potatoes and eggplant.

Some arthritis sufferers say these foods make symptoms worse, while others believe symptoms improved after eating them. Try to systematically eliminate foods one at a time. Begin by taking wheat or corn off the menu. If you don't notice a difference, try eliminating dairy or the nightshade vegetables. With luck and persistence, you may zero in on the offending food and be able to reduce your pain level.

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careful diet has helped patients with rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that mostly affects women 40-60 years old. The body's immune system, designed to attack infection and illness, misfires with rheumatoid arthritis. Certain foods may mistakenly trigger the immune system, causing it to attack the body's own tissues and result in painful, swollen areas such as the membranes around the finger and toe joints.

Arthritis experts don't have a definitive answer, but some studies show that what you eat may impact inflammation in your joints. The jury may be out but why not experiment? A shift in your menu could lead to a pain-free life.

Foods to Add Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and tuna are often recommended for arthritis sufferers but there are other ways to get those omega-3s. Try walnut oil on your next salad. Walnut oil contains omega-3 fatty acids similar to those found in fish and fish oil supplements. Avocado oil is another alternative that lowers Creactive proteins, inflammation markers in the blood.

Add onions to that salad. The onion is said to inhibit inflammation and is rich in antioxidants. The stronger the smell and flavor, the more potent and helpful the onion is to your system.

For dessert, try strawberries, which have been shown to lower C-reactive proteins.

Citrus fruits are known to fight free radicals that can cause inflammation and pain. Vitamin C also helps build cartilage.

Healthy Weight, Healthy Joints It should come as no surprise that being overweight puts tremendous pressure on the body's joints, particularly the hips, knees and back. This pressure causes additional inflammation and exacerbates arthritis symptoms. Losing excess weight

is an important start toward keeping your joints healthy and your arthritis in check. As always, consult your doctor before making drastic shifts in diet or lifestyle.

Immunity Boosting Foods You have done everything you can to stay healthy and boost the power of your immune system. You had a flu shot. You wash your hands often throughout the day, and maybe carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer for extra protection from germs. You take your Vitamin C and drink many glasses of water daily. But do you eat with your immune system in mind?

It's easy to choose foods that will fortify your defense against the flurry of germs around you. Try building a menu around some of these immunity boosting foods to keep your immune system strong.

Listen To Your Mother It turns out that your mother was right about a lot of things. If she counselled you to eat hot chicken soup for your health, you should follow her advice. The classic elixir of hot broth, chicken, vegetables and herbs may do more than make you feel cozy and well loved. The steamy broth helps to keep you hydrated and loosens mucus, making it easier to breathe. If you add garlic and onion to your cup of soup, you will infuse the recipe with more immunity-boosting strength.

Magic Mushrooms Whether you consider mushrooms a lowly fungus or an exotic ingredient, you need to know that they pack a powerful punch. Mushrooms help speed production of white blood cells, the cells that help your body fight infection. Add mushrooms to your omelet, sautĂŠ some for a burger or toss them in a salad, and you will treat your body to a burst of

vitamin B2, the mineral selenium and other antioxidants. Shiitake, reishi and other Asian mushrooms, are said to be most effective in battling illness.

Think Orange Brightly colored fruits and vegetables are brimming with vitamins. The orange array of foods are particularly good for your immune system. Pumpkin, squash, yams, cantaloupe, and carrots are all full of beta-carotene which converts to vitamin A in your body. Vitamin A is another supplement that is thought to help generate those infection-fighting white blood cells. Does this mean that pumpkin pie might actually be good for you?

Yes To Yogurt This creamy dairy product perfected by the Greeks contains live cultures that can actually protect your stomach and intestines from germs. Probiotics are a form of healthy bacteria that benefit your system. Some health studies show that workers who ate yogurt with live cultures were healthier and missed significantly less work than their colleagues. Mix plain yogurt with berries or granola for breakfast, or combine it with herbs and lemon juice to create a dip or salad dressing. The probiotics found in yogurt also can be taken in pill or powder form as a supplement.

Bonus Food Garlic is not only a great way to keep vampires at bay, it will help you fend off colds as well. The tiny bulbs are full of anti-oxidants that may help your body resist illness and disease. To unleash garlic's full benefits, peel the bulbs and mince, chop or crush them as necessary for the dish. Let the garlic sit for about 20 minutes before cooking for maximum impact.

Eat Organic In general, an arthritis diet is a healthy diet. Fruits and vegetables loaded with anti-oxidants will help protect joint tissue and decrease enzymes that cause inflammation. Load your plate with dark leafy greens, broccoli, bell peppers and other colorful choices. Try to buy organic produce and eat less processed food since certain pesticides or chemicals in food may cause the immune system to react. Avoid preservatives such as monosodium glutamate (MSG) because there is some evidence that food additives can increase sensitivity in your body's pain receptors.

Catch the Culprit Determining which foods cause inflammation may take a little detective work. Foods commonly suspected of causing inflammation are: red meat,

Page 33 Mature Living April 2013

Feature by Claudia McGloin - Advanced Nurse Practitioner

What is Constipation?

Everybody has their own normal bowel habits which vary from person to person.

Some adults go to the toilet more than once a day whereas others will go once every three to four days or even longer.

• Not drinking enough fluids • Anxiety or Depression • Pregnancy • Weight • Lack of Exercise • Psychological Issues such as privacy

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hroughout my nursing career, I have seen varying degrees of bowel habits and have seen the impact that this has had on patients and their lives. I am frequently asked about constipation and what can be done to prevent this so, this is the perfect topic for this month’s editorial seeing as summer is here and people need to get their constipation under control.

What is Constipation?

Constipation is a very common condition that affects people of all ages. It means that you are not passing faeces as often as you normally would do, you have to strain more than usual or you are unable to completely empty your bowel.

Constipation can also cause your stools to be unusually hard, lumpy, large or small like nuggets. The severity of constipation can vary greatly from person to person with many people only experiencing constipation for a short time with no lasting effects on their health while for others constipation can be a chronic condition that causes significant pain and discomfort which affects quality of life. In addition, constipation can also cause: stomach ache, cramps, bloating, nausea and loss of appetite.

If you continually strain to pass faeces, it can cause pain, discomfort and bleeding. Excessive straining can also lead to Haemorrhoids. More commonly known as Piles, Haemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels that form in the lower rectum and anus.

What causes Constipation?

Most cases of Constipation are not caused by a specific condition but several factors can increase your chances of having Constipation. These include: • Not eating enough fibre, such as fruit, vegetables and cereals • A change in your routine or lifestyle, such as a change in your eating habits • Ignoring the urge to pass stools • Side effects of certain medication

Page 34 Mature Living April 2013

There is a strong connection between emotions and how the gut works. Feeling upset can make your bowel slow down.

Emotional upset, even in childhood, may result in constipation years later. This has always been evident during the Colonic Hydrotherapy treatments at The Claudia McGloin Clinic and why we will work on both of these issues to give your bowel the optimum treatment.

Your GP may prescribe laxatives for constipation and will advise on changes to your lifestyle and diet. See above on the factors that cause constipation.

Colonic Hydrotherapy and Constipation Did you know that 80% of all illnesses start in the large intestine?

Most people have no idea how much old, hardened, impacted faecal matter there is in their colon. Many experts believe that the average person has between 5 and 20 LBS of waste matter in their colon. A person suffering from constipation has up to 40 LBS of waste matter in their colon.

The colon or large intestine is located at the end of the human digestive tract. Its primary functions are to eliminate waste, conserve water and reabsorb electrolytes and minerals into the body.

Waste materials that remain in the colon for extended periods of time (impacted faeces, dead cellular tissue, mucous and parasites etc) pose several health problems. These waste materials can be reabsorbed into the blood stream making us feel weak, tired and ill. Impacted faeces can also impair the colons ability to absorb minerals and can cause the overgrowth of bad bacteria and yeast. A build-up of faecal matter in the colon can also inhibit muscular action causing sluggish bowel movements, slow transit time and constipation. Colonic Hydrotherapy can greatly alleviate the congestion and build up of unwanted toxic waste.

A Healthy Colon The colon or large intestine is an important part of the digestive system.

The colon handles the bulk of the food we eat. Its lining includes sensitive nerves and glands that aid the assimilation of food especially vitamins, enzymes and water. When the colon is working properly its peristaltic (muscular wave like) motions move food through the system and eliminate unassimilated substances in the form of waste within 16-24 hours after eating. A healthy

individual with a clean and healthy colon will have 2 bowel movements per day.

They should be large, well formed, buoyant and not accompanied by a foul odour.

Needless to say a healthy colon is essential to a healthy body!

A Toxic Colon Over time the colon may become unhealthy and lose its ability to properly eliminate all the waste materials from the digestive tract. This is due to a combination of Poor Diet, Lack of Exercise, Drug Intake, Lifestyle and a variety of other factors. When the colon becomes less active the body does not eliminate its waste materials as effectively. Therefore, when the elimination process is not functioning properly deposits of waste matter build up along the colon wall. When this occurs, the waste material remains in the colon for days sometimes weeks. If this waste material deposits along the colon wall it may not leave there for months or even years. These deposits of faecal matter can get to 2 or 3 inches thick!

The Colonic Hydrotherapy treatment stimulates bowel activity by using the body’s natural nerve and muscular response mechanisms and so is

essentially a natural treatment. Colonic Hydrotherapy can tone and exercise the bowel aiding the evacuation of waste both during and after the treatment.

Are you feeling or experiencing any or all of the following?

• Bloated • Constipated • Weight Gain • Lethargic • Flatulance • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) • Backache • Indigestion • Candida • Insomnia • Body Odour • Dark Circles Under Eyes • Poor Concentration • Colitis • Diverticulosis • Diarrhoea • Menstrual Pain • Bad Breath • Parasites (Worms) Then a Colonic Hydrotherapy treatment is for you! For further details please contact Claudia at the Claudia McGloin Clinic on 0719140728 to book a consultation. Or visit the clinic website www.claudiamcgloinclinic.com

Treatments available Monday to Friday From 10a m to 5pm Late evening and weekend appointments available on request Colonic Hydrotherapy Colonic Enemas & Vibro Plate Chemical Skin Peel (Mild or Medium) Genuine Dermaroller Stretch Marks, Acne and Scar Treatment Dermal Fillers Lip and Cheek Enhancement, Lines and Wrinkles Advanced Cosmetic Procedures Moles, Milia, Warts, Veruccas, Blood Spots, Skin Tags, Thread veins Mesotherapy Fat and Cellulite Reduction, Sports Injuries Facial Skin Rejuvenation and Skin Tightening Microsclerotherapy Thread Vein Removal Aqua Detox Foot Spa, Osteoarthritis Knee injections Medical Skin Care ...Prices on consultation

1st F loor, Millenniu m House, Stephen Street, Sligo

Tel: 071-9140728 • www.claudiamcgloinclinic.com

Holidays with Mullaney Travel, Sligo

Mallorca, The Balearic Islands ALGARVE & COSTA DEL SOL

Gran Canaria, its largest resort, is the well known Playa des Ingles with plenty of clubs, bars & restaurants and short transfer from the airport.

ALICANTE

Located on the southern tip of Portugal and Spain with expansive beaches stretching the entire coast line, these are the two most popular destinations from Knock. Although flights have already started for the year, it is really too early for guaranteed good weather. At this time of the year the temperatures will vary significantly and there is a good chance of rain, however from the end of April to mid October the temperatures will rise and you can expect excellent weather for your holiday. There is a varied choice of resorts from both Malaga and Faro airports with short or long transfers depending on your requirements.

THE CANARY ISLANDS

destination with beaches, aqua parks, history, spectacular Mountains and a beautiful city destination of Palma.

The city is a stylish, sophisticated, intimate yet bursting with life, with some of the islands best restaurants, shops and night life.

restaurants and shopping. There is an excellent choice of hotels and resorts with easy access to the city. Medugorje is within relatively easy distance of the Dubrovinik area for those who wish to spend a day or two.

CROATIA Flights to Dubrovnik from Knock are somewhat limited, just July and August are offered this year, but if you get the chance to visit the pearl of the Adriatic don’t hesitate to go. The Dubrovnik Riveria and islands are very popular with Irish holiday makers, the city is beautiful and medieval, with good range of Located on the Costa Blanca in the south east region of Spain, it has become a popular year round destination especially with the retired community. There are a lot of properties available for longer term lets, although like the Costa del Sol the weather is not always predictable in the winter months. Alicante is a good destination in its own right with plenty of beaches but it also gives easy access to Benidorm, Murcia and Valencia. The best time to visit is from May to October, don’t forget to go and see the castle of Santa Barbra when you visit Alicante.

GIRONA

Royal Caribbean International Legend of the Seas 7 Night Western Mediterranean Cruise with FREE FLIGHTS from only €855pp

Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, all of these destinations are now available from Knock. The Canary Islands are located off the coast of Morocco, on the western coast of Africa in the Atlantic ocean, this combination gives the Canary Islands an all year round holiday product with a constant temperature range and persistent breeze to cool you down.

Lanzarote is a perennial favourite for the Irish holiday maker with its year round access and favourable climate, but it is the least interesting of the islands.

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands has spectacular beaches and is a golfers paradise, it is worth hiring a car to see all the the island has to offer.

Page 35 Mature Living April 2013

Located north of Barcelona, near to the Spanish /French border, it is not an area as well developed as other destinations in the south of Spain, but it is a lovely quiet area with very pleasant weather, interesting towns to visit and good camping facilities. It offers relatively easy access to Barcelona with regular trains taking from 40 minutes to 1 hr 15 minutes to the city centre.

THE BALEARIC ISLANDS MAJORCA / MALLORCA Majorca, the largest of the islands, lies in the Mediterranean - off the south east coast of Spain, a wonderfully varied

For all your Travel needs

Mullaney Travel O’Connell Street & Johnstons Court, Sligo

info@mullaneytravel.ie Telephone: 0719143278

The travel agents who cares TA0413

Co Sligo Golf Club at Rosses Point

Home to the annual West of Ireland Amateur Open Championship

It has been described by Peter Alliss as “…a tremendous test for the highest quality player and great fun for the modest competitor”.

The course boats 18 championship links, 9 hold bonmore links, a flood lit driving range, state of the art practice facilities and they offer membership packages to suit all levels of golfer.

Seniors Special @ Co Sligo Golf Club, Rosses Point

GREEN FEES: Apr-Oct 2013: €95 Seven Days Societies from: €60

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ituated at Rosses Point, 8 kms from Sligo on the North West coast of Ireland, Co. Sligo Golf Club is one of Ireland’s great Championship links.

Under the shadow of Benbulben, the spectacular scenery of mountain, ocean and countryside that surrounds this classic links has been immortalised by the poetry of W.B Yeats.

Established in 1894, the present course was designed by Harry Colt in the 1920s and is widely recognised as one of his finest courses.

MEMBERSHIP Full Membership from €992.00 per year Husband & Wife from €1710.00 per year Junior Full Age 25 from €617.00 per year Junior Full Age 31 from €842.00 per year Junior Full Age 33 from €917.00 per year Bomore Membership from €442.00 per year, Juvenile Membership from €193.00 per year We have different payment options in place to suit all. Contact the office on 0719177186 for details.

Email: teresa@countysligogolfclub.ie Website: www.countysligogolfclub.ie

Midweek Golf During April & May 2013 Connacht Club Golfers Special

18 Holes of Golf & Lunch €50.00 pp 18 Holes of Golf & Buggy €45.00 pp 18 Holes of Golf €35.00 pp

Tel: 071­9177186 • Fax: 071­9177460 Email: teresa@countysligogolfclub.ie Page 36 Mature Living April 2013

Golden Breaks

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Swinford Road, Kil!magh, Co. Mayo • Tel: 094­9374922 • info@parkhotelmayo.com • www.parkhotelmayo.com

ark Hotel, Kiltimagh is sit!ated adjacent to the local wildlife park and only a few minutes walk "om the town cent#e of Kiltimagh.

A comfor$able & relaxing lobby area, moder% contemporar& Café Bar, a la car$e Restaurant, f!nction & conference rooms, large fit%ess club with an unique spa, steam room, sauna, and wellness cent#e for real relaxation.

A war' Irish welcome awaits you upon ar#ival at the Park Hotel, Kiltimagh, Co Mayo. The Park Hotel Mayo is sit!ated in the busy market town of Kiltimagh, Co. Mayo which is located just off the N17 national primar& road bet)een Galway to Sligo and near Ireland West Air*or$ Knock Mayo (within 20 minutes drive). Guests staying at the Park Hotel Kiltimagh can avail of a "ee air*or$ shu+le bus ser,ice to and "om the Park Hotel Mayo and Ireland West Air*or$ Knock, Co. Mayo

Golden Years Break Two Nights Bed & Breakfast with Dinner on One Evening, Complementary Tea, Coffee and Scones on arrival and the 3rd Night free.

Offer is available Sunday to Thrusday for

€129.00 per person sharing

Golden Years Special Packages Lough Allen Hotel & Spa • Drumshanbo • Co Leitrim • www.loughallenhotel.com

Mid Week Special €49.50pp 2 Nights Bed & Breakfast

Weekend Special €99pp

2 Nights Bed & Breakfast Plus 1 Dinner

Complimentary access to Leisure Centre for all guests Available April to June Only • Please mention Matre Living Magazine at time of Booking

Great Special Offers Available All week in our Oshadi Spa

To Book Call 0719640100 or email: Reservations@loughallenhotel.com Page 37 Mature Living April 2013

Please check www.maturelivingexpo.ie for the final event schedule Details and times are approximate

W O H S E L Y T S E F I L E T A M I T L U E H T Antique Valuations

oolyard h c S rd a y rm a F h it w Animal Petting area

Free Head Massage

To Book a stand Tel Seamus: 085-2498067

Over 60 Exhibi!on Stands

Free Podiatry Assessment

shion Show Men’s & Women’s Fa

r o f t n e v e ic m a n y d a is w o h S g in iv L e r u t a M e h “T

Clarion Hotel Sligo Fri May 10th 11-6 Sat May 11th 10-6 Free Manicures

The

at the

Exhibition 2013

Free Eye Testing F re e H e a l t h Check

ns io t a r t s n o m e D g Cookin Wine Tasting

Register @ matureliving.ie before April 25th to receive FREE entry

Flower arranging

� e f li f o t u o t s o m e h t e k a m o t t n a w o h w le p o pe

Hotels

Visit the stunning Leitrim countryside offer for an unforgettable break. A family re-union can be rounded off with a lavish evening meal It is an ideal wedding venue or conference centre. The central location of the hotel in Leitrim facilitates tours and visits to the surrounding unspoiled countryside. The location facilitates visits to the many nearby lakes that comprise the Leitrim countryside and shopping in nearby Sligo or Enniskillen A visit to Lough Allen hotel & Spa in Drumshanbo is a must and there are packages to suit any budget.

Drumshanbo • Co Leitrim www.loughallenhotel.com

Mid Season Mid Week Special

2 Nights B&B and 1 Dinner Just €99 pp 3 Nights B&B for just €99pp

To Book Call 071-9640100 or email reservations@loughallenhotel.com

I

T’S summertime and one of the best places to base a home holiday or a week-end break is, undoubtedly, the Lough Allen Hotel in County Leitrim. Situated on the shores of Lough Allen, only 14 km from the bustling town of Carrick on Shannon, it is only a short walk to the town of Drumshanbo.

The 4 star hotel has offerings to compare with the top hotels in Ireland and also has the stunning Leitrim countryside. Spa treatments, leisure centre and a sumptuous candlelight dinner are all part of what’s on

Maldron Hotel Portlaoise - so different, so near

T

he Maldron Hotel Portlaoise is regarded as one of the best Laois Hotels. Value is what business and leisure travelers’ alike look for and value is what ? the Maldron Hotel in Portlaoise delivers. Comfortable and luxurious rooms, efficient friendly service and a superior product at an affordable price.

The Maldron Hotel and leisure centre Portlaoise offers ? all of this and a little bit more. Regarded as one of the finest family friendly hotels, you and your family can enjoy a great value break together at this Portlaoise hotel. Maldron Hotel Portlaoise offers a number of family rooms and interconnecting rooms that are very comfortable and spacious. The Maldron hotel Portlaoise is perfectly positioned for sightseeing breaks in Laois and for families to avail of the many local attractions for kids.

For business meetings in Laois, The Maldron Hotel excels with a dedicated conference floor offering 8 state of the art Conference suites and 4 syndicate Meeting rooms. All our rooms include complimentary Wi-Fi / Broadband, natural daylight and Air Conditioning. We also offer you complementary secure car parking making us one of the finest hotels in Portlaoise.

Our superb Club Vitae Leisure Centre offers you the chance to relax and unwind after a long day. As a guest

of ours, you will have complimentary use of the leisure centre including: 20m swimming pool, children’s pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, aerobics Studio and gym.

Stir Bar and Restaurant offers food to suit all array of tastes using only fresh ingredients. Our menus are created with you in mind and offer healthy options and vegetarian dishes making us one of the most popular restaurants in Portlaoise.

Body and Soul Treatment rooms is a luxury quaint spa setting providing an extensive range of complementary and beauty treatments tailored to suit the needs of each individual. Our therapists are highly qualified & exceptional in their field and provide an extremely high standard of treatment at affordable and competitive prices. For more info or to book check out our website www.bodyandsoultherapyrooms.com The central location of the Maldron Hotel in Laois I is ideal for exploring the beautiful sights & surrounds of the Midlands of Ireland from the picturesque Slieve Bloom Mountains www.slievebloom.ie to the monastic round towers at Timahoe and the Garden Trail of Laois there is something for both young and old alike. For corporate guests the location of this hotel in Laois is convenient when traveling to Dublin, Limerick Cork or any location in Ireland.

Family Fun *

* 2 adults & 2 children

1 night B&B inc a Fun Activity from €99

Relaxing Family* 2 Night Break 2 nights B&B & 1 Evening Meal from only €215

Excellent range of packages available for families, Midweek and Weekend breaks, groups & Events.

Tel: 057 8695900 www.maldronhotelportlaoise.com info.portlaoise@maldronhotels.com

The Heart of the Great Western Greenway

N

Newpor$, Co. Mayo • Tel: 098 41155

Mid Season Mid week-Special

ewport is known as “The Heart of the Great Western Greenway” and sits on the banks of the Black Oak River, where tranquil, undiscovered mountain trails and walkways as well as the famous Burrishoole loop walks can be found.

Your hotel has every comfort, beautiful rooms classically decorated and furnished to a high standard, with elegant antique furniture happily co-existing with contemporary comforts and facilities, satellite TV and

(Sunday-Thursday)

2BB1D.........€100.00 per person sharing 3BB2D.........€150.00 per person sharing Enjoy a 2 or 3 night stay with breakfast and a 3 course evening meal included.

(Only available until the end of June) Please quote ‘mat"re living’ when availing of this offer.

www.hotelnewportmayo.com

telephone. There is a bar and restaurant with home cooking and we offer a packed lunch service should you require this on one of your trips out.

Please visit our website where you can see a range of packages and activities, from art classes to horse riding to fishing. www.hotelnewportmayo.com.

Page 40 Mature Living April 2013

Hotels

Why choose a Hotel when you can have the Luxury of a Resort

P

4 nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast and 5th night B&B FREE - €199 pp

*Dinner each evening *Full complimentary daily and nightly entertainment program *Transfers local Bus & Train Station *Complimentary tea & coffee daily *Full use of the leisure centre facilities

In-House Activities: •Discount Spa Treatments •Complimentary use of Leisure Club – Pool & Gym •Complimentary Classes •Active 55’s Workout •Table Tennis •Bowling •Wine Tasting •Herbal Tea Tasting •Grow your own Garden •Classical Movies •Guilded Walking Tour •Flower Arranging Scenic Tours available on request To Book: Call us now on 094 90 22033 or email to reservations@breaffyhouseresort.ie Bookings on line www.breaffyhouseresort.com

lanning a relaxing break away, the ideal location is Breaffy House Resort which is located in the heart of Co. Mayo. Set on 90 acres of gardens and rolling woodland. The House dates back to 1890, retaining some of its original Country House atmosphere whilst offering all of the luxury of a modern day hotel. The Resort is renowned for its warm welcoming staff with an excellent range of facilities. The Resort includes Spa, Leisure Centre with 20 metre pool, Sauna and Jacuzzi. The Resort offers deluxe rooms which include a range of suites, superior, standard rooms with all the facilities that your guests would require – direct dial telephone, multichannel colour T.V., radio, hairdryer, trouser press and tea/coffee making facilities.

This year we have put together an amazing offer of 4 nights Dinner B&B and 5th night B&B FREE when you book our Golden Breaks package. This offer includes 3 course dinner each night in the Mulberry Restaurant and breakfast each morning, along with 5th Night Bed & Breakfast free. Transfers can be

arranged from local bus and train stations based on minimum numbers. Complimentary on site parking should you wish to drive. We have chosen a selection of arrival dates each month which means we can provide in-house activities such as wine tasting, table tennis, bowling, grow your own garden and pottery painting. This is the ideal location to explore Mayo.

The Hotel is just 20 mins away from the scenic town of Westport. All guests have complimentary use of the swimming pool, sauna, seam room, Jacuzzi, and gym. You may also take part in one of our many classes, which include Aqua Aerobics, Over 55’s workout and the increasing popular Zumba. If you fancy some pampering, enjoy some time out in Breaffy Spa. Which offers a range of facial, body and massage treatments to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at leisure between 7:30am –10:30am each morning and Dinner each between 6:30pm – 8:45pm. The Mulberry Bar serves food for 12-9pm each day for snacks, light bites and main courses.

Go West this spring for a truly relaxing over 50s holiday ?

H

otel Westport is secluded in 7 acres of beautiful woodland in the heart of Westport. You’ll discover a uniquely friendly, comfortable and stylish hotel, abounding in warmth and relaxation.

Hotel Westport offers a variety of holidays and are renowned for their theme breaks – Golden Years (where you get an extra night’s dinner, bed and breakfast free!), Golf, Walking, Bridge and Indoor Bowling.

As part of their Golden Holiday Programme they take care of your every need! The holiday includes a full Irish Breakfast each morning (served until a leisurely 11am!), and a four course Table d’Hote dinner each evening.

They organise day tours too - Knock Shrine, Kylemore & Ballintubber Abbeys, Foxford Woollen Mills, Achill Island and The Céidé Fields (at your own expense), or for those of you wanting something a little more relaxing, book a treatment in their luxurious Ocean Spirit Spa. Choose from an array of treatments – specialised massages, soothing facials, exotic hand and foot spa treatments, luxurious body peels and wraps. They organize games and entertainment in the evenings too. You won’t want to go home!

The Hotel has 129 bedrooms with all the comforts of home. The elegant ‘Islands Restaurant’ overlooks the Carrowbeg River, while the ‘Maple Bar’ provides the perfect ambience for music and chat over drinks amongst friends. Avail of the extensive leisure facilities on hand, relax with a good book in the patio gardens or take a stroll along the Carrowbeg River into town where there is an excellent mix of shops, cafes and restaurants.

Hotel Westport is located in the perfect place to take in one or more of the many outdoor activities in the local area: Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s Holy Mountain, Clew Bay, with 365 islands, blue flag beaches, horse riding, golf, surfing, fishing, walking and shopping - just to mention a few and the nearest Hotel to the newly opened Great Western Greenway - 42km of uninterrupted walking and cycling taking in breathtaking scenery on the way, from Westport through Newport and Mulranny and into Achill Island!

A warm, friendly welcome awaits you at Hotel Westport, “One of Ireland’s best loved Hotels”. Sale Special – 18th or 25th March 5 Nights DBB Only €229 per person sharing. Call NOW for further details

Mini Over 50's Holidays at Hotel West!or" 'One of Ireland's Best Loved Hotels'

2 Night's B&B + 3rd Night Dinner, Bed & Breakfast FREE Premier Room €139pp €159pps €189pps €209pps €199pp

February March April May June

Standard Room €119pp €139pps €169pps €189pps €179pp

No Single Supplement for February & June!

Valid Sunday - Friday inclusive • Single Supplement €20 per night

Complimentary access to award winning leisure facilities - Contact us NOW

A pictorial record of the Free Day Tour toofConnemara West Ireland over with Harbour Hotel Packages 15 years

T

he Harbour Hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Galway City, perfect for a getaway break this Spring.

Midweek specials, to include two nights bed & breakfast, freshly baked scones served with Kylemore Abbey Jams on arrival and a three course evening meal on a night of your choice from €89 per person sharing.

Stay on our three night package and get a complimentary Day Tour to Connemara with tickets for Kylemore Abbey. Enjoy spectacular scenery on your day trip out to Connemara where you will also see Ross Errily Friary, Ballymagibbon Cairn, Glebe Stone Circle, Cong Village, Abbey & Woods, Lough Nafooey Valley Route, Leenane & Killary Harbour, Kylemore Abbey, Inagh Valley, Quiet Man

Call 098 25122 or email reservations@hotelwestport.ie

Bridge and lots, lots more..

3 Nights B&B, 2 Dinner, Tea & Scones, plus Connemara Day Tour only €169 pps, Sunday – Thursday.

The Harbour Hotel has a waterfront location, just a 3 minute stroll from Eyre Square and 5 minutes from the train station. This

allows you to be part of the hustle and bustle, however the convenient location allows you to slip away to your hotel room for a bit of peace and quiet.

Contact Aine on 091894805 or stay@harbour.ie . Full details of packages on www.harbour.ie

Page 41 Mature Living April 2013

WIN €100! WIN €100!

We Have a ROLL OVER! Last Month there was no winner so the prize has doubled to €100

The Answer was Grid Ref: J3/J4

A

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WIN €100!! WIN €100!!

HOW TO PLAY

The ball has been remove You have to decide where d from the picture. it was, and place a ‘X’ on the picture.

The X Should mark where you think the centre of the ball is and can only be marked in one box per entry - Only one ent ry per person will be permitted.

If more than one correct will be picked at random answer is received then the winning entry from the winning entries.

Winner will be notified by pos t. Terms and conditions apply Send entries to ‘Spot the Ball’ Mature Living Magazine, Office 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo

Page42 42 Mature MatureLiving LivingOctober May 2012 Page 2012

ENTRY FORM

Name____________________ ______________ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ _ Telephone_______________

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Ad dre ss_ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ _____________________________ ____________ ___________________________ ____________ ___________________________ ____________ ________________________ _______________ Email Address______________ _____________

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Advertising Feature

Yeats Country Antiques some tips on what to do: What makes antiques so distinct is their age, but you don’t want the age of your antiques to get the best of their appearance. With our passion for antiques we are always looking for tips and tricks to help care and maintain our antique items so we can show them off and cherish them for a long time to come. Here’s a few Do’s and Don’ts we’ve picked up over the years:

Vintage Cast Iron Post Box

S

pring cleaning is the perfect time to do your annual antique cleaning. That not only means regular maintenance, protection and dusting, but an annual thorough cleaning of your antiques as well. Cleaning antiques is not like cleaning other items in your home. There are specific ways to clean your antiques properly in order to protect them and not damage them in the cleaning process. Below you will find

Wide Variety of Mirrors always in stock

Cast Iron Garden Planters

Do’s: • Antique furniture should never be "polished" or cleaned with commercial cleaning products or polishes. Instead, use a soft cloth sprayed with some glass cleaner.

Branleys yard, Rathcormac, Co. Sligo 67/68 Francis Street, Dublin 8.

• Wear cotton gloves when you are handling silver to avoid exposure to oils and acids.

• To remove minor water marks on furniture, use a mixture of Vaseline and ashes. Sift 2 tablespoons of fine wood ashes with a dab of Vaseline or cooking oil to form a paste. Using a circular motion, work the paste into the surface with a soft cloth until the white ring vanishes.

• To polish brass make a paste of equal parts of salt, flour and vinegar. Rub on brass with a soft cloth. Rinse completely. Shine with a clean, dry, soft cloth.

• Lemon juice will remove the remains of gum, adhesive tape, and other sticky tapes.

• Coins should be left in "found" condition. Cleaning makes them less desirable to collectors.

Don’ts: • Never use water to clean wood, it will cause the joints to swell.

• Never put crystal glass in the dishwasher because the heat and detergent will cause it to become cloudy.

• Never use rust-remover on china as it will remove the sealing coat that protects the design.

Cast Iron Garden Seat

• Never use furniture oil such as lemon furniture on antique furniture, and use a clear paste wax (e.g. beeswax) with a soft cloth instead.

• Never display grandfather clocks near a radiator or a fire.

Be sure to attach them to the wall for safety.

5 Mistakes that Ruin your Antiques If you are an avid collector of antiques the very last thing you want to do is ruin your antiques. No one purposely attempts to ruin their antiques, but sometimes improper care can lead to irreversible damage.

To ensure that your antiques stay in the best shape possible we are going to share five common mistakes that can ruin your antiques.

1. Improper cleaning methods: Research your antique properly to find the correct cleaning practices. If in doubt, or if your item requires a lot of specialist cleaning then consult an expert.

2. Re-finishing furniture: Less is more. Refinishing a rare antique depletes its value and changes the look. Make sure not to over-do it.

3. Displaying in sunlight: Direct, bright sunlight will permanently damage the color of your antiques. Try to avoid.

4. Improper storage practices: To preserve your antiques do not store them in damp areas,

or places that are extremely hot. A good tip is to store your antiques in places that feel comfortable to you.

5. Restoration by an amateur: Attempting to complete a complex restoration on your own can leave your antique with increased damage. Consult an expert and leave complex restorations to professionals to make sure your antiques retain their value.

Victorian Wrought & Cast Gates

For a reliable advice on how to handle and care for your antiques, please do not hesitate to consult us at Yeats Country Antiques. We will be happy to advise you on the best course of action…….because few things are as important as maintaining and sharing the artifacts that reflect who we are.

Spring is here…….and its Garden time!

There is no better way to say goodbye to winter than to get started on work in the garden and outdoor home improvements that will allow you to make the most of your outdoor space. At Yeats Country Antiques we have a huge selection of outdoor items, from antique style cast iron garden seats, planters & ornaments as well as a fantastic range of genuine antique cast gates.

Many of our garden items are brand new in stock, so now is the best time of year to get the biggest selection.

A visit to Yeats Country Antiques is a must for the discerning antiques buyer, the vintage enthusiast and the bargain hunter.

Check out our web-site:www.yeatscountryantiques.ie

Services Directory

Easy Baths, Showers, Stair Lifts & Leisure All Disability Equipment Supplied & Installed - Covering Both North and South Baths • Walk in baths with door.

• Hydrotherapy, Hydraulic Riser-Lower baths.

• Bather sitting in an upright or lie down position depending upon selection of bath type.

Showers • Showers easy access, trays and enclosures, half-height, full-height doors.

• Shower stools, chairs, fold down seats, doors, curtain rails etc.

• Level access and easy access shower tray included • Slip resistant surfaces on shower base.

• Suitable for shower-chair or ambulant user.

Stair Lifts • Straight or curved, made to measure • Floor to ceiling/platform lifts • Swimming pool lifts

EAST BROTHERS GARDEN MACHINERY Doon Boyle, Co. Roscommon Tel: 071-9662710, www.eastmachinery.ie P U SH S R MOWE TRACTOR LAWN MOWERS

Chainsaws, Tillers, Outboard Motors, Power Washers, Generators, Electric Fences, Farm Machinery Spares

STRIMMERS

For more information please contact: JOHN HINDS R.O.I.: T: 048 42771652 M: 00 44 7802 298910 N.I. 028 4277 1652 M: 07802 298910

ORTH WEST EST NORTH ROTECTION DOGS OGS PROTECTION

Deepwater Quay, Finisklin, Sligo Harbour, Sligo 071-9153360 • 071-9153362 Email: info@erin-recyclers.com

Healthier, Quieter, More Energy Efficient

TRALAS INSULATIONS Spray Foam Insulation

Ph: 048-66326728 Mob: 086-0858030

www.icynene.ie

We’ll change the way you think about insulation and your building - GRANTS AVAILABLE

Tidy up around your home & garden WE BUY...

• Pvc copper, cylinders, copper piping & lead • Alumimium wheels, alumimium sheeting • Old stainless steel milk tanks • Rebar from building sites.

We also do site clearances (Metal Only)

WE WEIGH AND PAY . . . AND YOU’RE ON YOUR WAY!!

www.scrapmetalireland.com

Flat Roofs Fixed For Good GacoPro...World’s No.1 Flat Roof Solution Now in Ireland

Low Cost No Joints Seamless No reflec!ve paint required Works on all old weathered roofs Remains flexible Professionally applied Guaranteed waterproof even under ponding water No cracking Resists algae, moss, etc Reflected light helps brighten rear dark rooms For full informa#on without obliga#on 071­9640555 or 087­2698198 ­ GacoPro is available from Beirne Coa#ngs Ltd, Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim.

Note: GacoPro applied to your flat roof now ­ adds decades to its life.

ADVERTISE HERE! Call 071-9154538 for details of our excellent rates and offers

Pups and Trained Dogs For Sale Have peace of mind in your home - invest in a fully trained family protection dog • IKC Registered • Microchip • Vet Checked • Flea'd, Wormed & Vaccinated • 7 Generation Certificate • 6 Weeks free insurance • Parents can be seen

Ballina, Co. Mayo Tel: 085-7843837

Services Directory

ATLANTIC AUTOMATIONS

North West Counselling

Ballyneggin, Castlebar, Co. Mayo • Tel: 087-4187122 - Mob: 087-7587186 Manufacturers of quality Ornamental Gates, Railings and Stairs Specialists in Access Control Systems and Automatic Gate Systems

Counselling for people with addictions eg. Drugs, Alcohol, Gambling

• Relapse Programme • One-to-one Counselling • Referral system for private clients to White Oaks Rehabilitation Centre • Addiction and General counselling available Afternoon, evening and weekend appointments available

Counsellors are professionally trained and are fully accredited or working towards accreditation.

For appointments ring: 087-2879707, or 074-9723822 Email: taborhouse2004@eircom.net Tabor House, Drimark, Donegal Town

- Remote Control access systems - Keypad access control systems - Barrier access control systems

Helping people to recover

Visit our new SHOWROOM at Roadstone Retail park, Castlebar

Irish Shamrock Trees Cavity Wall Insulation Attic Insulation Sound Proofing Drylining Spray Foam Insulation

New & Existing Residential Commercial Industrial

Whitethorn & Beech Hedging Trees and more Suitable for: • People with limited mobility • People who have had hip surgery

• Aeos & REPS Specialists • All trees and tree plants • Refridgerated trees • Trees from €2.00 • All year round planting • Best Value Trees in Ireland.

• People with back aches

For details of your local stockist

Phone Noel: 087-9896948

We pride ourselves on our truly friendly and efficient service.

Tel: 087-2743914 24 HR www.irishshamrocktrees.com

S.T.O.P. is a registered charity, which was set up to assist and support individuals who feel suicidal, are in distress, or those who have been bereaved by suicide.

Contact: Michelle Fox, Beepark Resource Centre, Newline, Manorhamilton, Co.Leitrim

FREEPHONE: 1890-211-877 Mobile: 086 7772009 Email: info@stopsuicide.ie

www.stopsuicide.ie

Feature Article Services Directory

JB DENTURE CLINIC Garden/Tone St, Ballina.

Boradruma, Snugboro, Castlebar

Mon-Thu 9.30 - 6pm / Fri 9.30 - 5pm • Homes • Hospitals • Nursing Homes Appointments by arrangement

Tel: 096-72189 or 087-6389500

We repair Kitchen seats, 3pce suites, fireside chairs, bar seating, sails, motorbike seats, headboards, office chairs etc. We retail foam rubber, vinyls, velours, webbing, buttons, springs, etc. Member of the National Guild of Craftsmen.

Open Monday - Friday: 9am - 5pm Tel: 094 9023532 or 086 8350608

JAMES MCGRATH WESTPORT GAS REGISTERED GAS INSTALLER • REGISTERED OIL TECHNICIAN • CALOR GAS INSTALLER

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS

• Solar Panels supplied and installed • Supplier and Installer of Gas /Oil Boilers • Domestic and Industrial Service • Gas and Oil Burner Upgrades • Heating Control Upgrades • Supplier of Valiant, Glowworm and Wolf Gas Boilers and Coster Gas Detection Systems

SERVICE AGENTS FOR Aga / Rangemaster / Electrolux / Zanussi / Parkinson Cowen Speed Queen and Maytag Laundry Equipment.

TEL (098) 35266 also (086)8169023 westportgas@eircom.net Servicing Mayo and North Galway

Bar, Hotels Private Houses All Upholstery undertaken Huge Selection of fabrics Contact: 086-8361070 or 071-9622700

MAKERS, SUPPLIERS & FITTERS • Water Analysis • Water Filtration • Water Softening • Well Drilling • Pump Supplied and Fitted • Rain Water Collection & Purification • Sewage Treatment Systems

MACE MIDDLE, CLAREMORRIS. www.mcganns.com

A full listing of products and rates are available on request

IN THE BUSINESS FOR OVER 25 YEARS

• Angles • Beading • Centre Pieces • Corbels • Corner Pieces • Cornices • Dado Rails • Niches • Plaques

Email: waterteck@eircom.net Website: www.waterteck.com Phone: 086-8072249 071-9658976

TELEPHONE: 094-9388208 MOBILE: 087-2503184

Barcastle Retail Park, Castlebar. T: 094-9026100

www.symphonykitchens.ie

Pay €500 Less for Cavity & Attic Insulation Pay up to €3850 less for External Insulation Just pay for the cost of the insulation job less the SEAI grant amount! www.superiorinsulations.ie

Superior Insulations, Charlestown, Co. Mayo

Lo Call: 1890 253 221

Services Directory

Aluminium & PVC Repairs

Collooney, Sligo T: 071-913 0956 M: 086-086 3991

To windows, doors and patio doors

www.grantwater.ie info@grantwater.ie

Expert patio door repairs!

• Rollers • Tracks • Hinges • Door Realignment • Locks • Multilocking systems etc

Grant Water has a hot tub to suit any need and any budget.

Over 20 years experience servicing Irish windows and doors. Fully insured

From the smaller to the larger, there is a Spa just your size with the legendary therapy and quality we are known for

GLASS PARTS ETC REPLACED

Call today and get a special discount in Conjunction with “Mature Living Magazine”

Brendan Gormley: 071-9183860 / 087-2562669

Garden Street | Ballina | Co Mayo

Your Eyes Are Precious.....

Let us look after them.

Complete Eye Exams including • Glaucoma Screening • AMD • Cataract Screening • Spectacles and Contact Lenses

The Biggest & Best Value Fireplace Showrooms in Ireland

Save €€€s by calling to us

For a full discussion and advice on all aspects of your eye health, call us and book your appointment today.

• Fireplaces • Stoves • Gas • Oil • Solid Fuel • Electric • Granite Worktop Specialists

Mon – Sat 9.30am -5.30pm

Sligo Road, Enniskillen.

Phone: 048 66 326 327

Corn & Callous Removal Nail Problems Diabetic Foot Care Verruca Treatment Insoles Home Visits

PRSI and Medical Card applications welcome

www.footworks.ie | 096 60100 | info@footworks.ie

LADY (65) LONELY Many hobbies, reading, gardening, music, cooking, cats, nature, walking - would like to meet a kind and interesting gentleman - successful in Dublin or Westport for friendship Replies with a box number 993 at the usual address.

SHY SLIGO LADY lakes cinema, concerts and DVDS, Music etc. Would like to hear from a Gent 60+ with similar interests for a friendship maybe leading to a relationship Replies with a box number 998 at the usual address.

ROSCOMMON LADY Early 60’s outgoing, likes dancing.

Would like to meet widower only.

N.S. For friendship leading to a relationship. Replies with a box number 968 at the usual address.

KIND GENTLEMAN 51 yrs, mayo area, seeking female for discreet fun. Discretion assured. Replies with a blank stamped envelope to Box number 974 at the usual address.

GENTLEMAN WIDOWER 54 yrs. Landscape gardener W.L.T.M. female professional, not married. In the northwest for friendship and craic. 6ft 1', blue

FREE DATING* CLASSIFIED

eyes, hair salt & pepper. Looking for lady 40 -47yrs. Longtime relationship. Replies with a blank stamped envelope to Box number 975 at the usual address.

MALE SEEKING FEMALE With good personality, good sense of humour, loving, caring & honest, & is interested in relationship.

Replies with a box number 974 at the usual address.

YOUNG AT HEART LADY in mid - 60’s. w.l.t.m. genuine gentleman foor friendship. well travelled, enjoys dancing, gent of similar age. Replies with a blank stamped envelope to Box number

965 at the usual address.

OUTGOING LADY From Roscommon. Would like to meet widower, only 59 - 65. N.S. Must be free to socialize, for friendship, leading to a relationship. Replies with a blank stamped envelope to Box number 961 at the usual address.

To Reply to Any Box number, simply place your letter in a Blank, Stamped Envelope and then send this into us at: Dating Section, Mature Living Magazine, Office 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co.Sligo.

WRITE YOUR ADVERT HERE:

NO. OF ISSUES TO APPEAR IN (MAX 2) : SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS: THE FOLLOWING DETAILS ARE FOR OFFICE USE ONLY AND WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED. These details MUST be completed for all adverts NAME:

(MAX 30 WORDS) - *Phone numbers will not be included in these adverts.

ADDRESS: Post the completed form to Mature Living Magazine, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo

TELEPHONE NUMBER: EMAIL:

STRICTLY PRIVATE ADVERTISERS ONLY - BUSINESSES CAN CALL 071-9154538 AND SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY SALES REPRESENTATIVES ABOUT OUR EXCELLENT RATES. Please tick if you do not wish to avail of offers and information we may offer from time to time

Page 47 Mature Living April 2013

Deep Water Quay, Sligo Tel: 071-9161879

In our homeware department Good wholesome soups, gourmet sandwiches, wraps etc and a simply gorgeous range of home-made scones, tarts, crumbles, chocolate, lemon & Guinness cakes —to name but a few.

Fuels, DIY, Garden, Paints, Pets, Animal Feeds, Household, Clothing & Footware

Open Mon - Sat: 9am - 5.30pm • Sun & Bank Hols 12-5pm • Open Through Lunch www.connachtgold.ie or www.garden-centres.ie