Mature Living Connacht February 2014

PROMOTING A HEALTHY & POSITIVE LIFESTYLE February 2014

Simple ways to save on your cruise

New advice for new grandparents

Healthy Living Youth Boosters

Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability

A 2 NIGHT BREAK IN GALWAY!

Contents

www.matureliving.ie

February 2014 I 15

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T’S February and time is really moving on. It’s getting Spring-like at last and the days are getting that bit longer. Any improvement in the weather will entice those with time on their hands to turn their minds to gardening. Look out for some useful tips in upcoming issues.

Our eyes and ears are exhausted at this stage with the fall-out from the alleged breach of security at the offices of the Garda Ombudsman. As these matters take on their own political twists from day to day, we only hope it will be brought to a speedy conclusion as there are other more pressing matters to be dealt with by our Ministers and TDs. Perhaps the issue of increasing CO2 emissions and global warning should return to the agenda for our legislators, though the controversy over Eirgrid’s plans and the pylon debacle would add some additional confusion into the mix. Somebody who has no qualms in pushing his forthright views on the issue is award-winning ecological design and energy specialist and architect, Duncan Stewart, who we feature in this week’s One-on-One Interview on page 10.

Unfortunately, it looks like science is loaded very much in favour of his pessimistic prediction for the futures of our children and grandchildren unless something is done to stop the burning of fossil fuels to satisfy our heat and energy requirements.

His Eco Eye series on RTE 1 is growing in popularity and people are beginning to wake up to the reality of global warning. If the recent floods haven’t provided us with enough evidence then nothing will. Not everybody, however, would agree with Duncan’s theories and are inclined to play down the claims that our current climatic changes are due to this. We must also remember that some powerful vested interests are spending billions to discredit his theories. Whatever your views, the One-on-One article makes for compelling reading.

Those of us old enough will remember child actor Shirley Temple who, sadly, passed away this month. We give you some memories to cherish on page 12. For those of you with a disability we provide some useful information on the Housing Grant for People with Disabilities and we also include a nursing home guide. In other features we outline some of the things to look out for when using Biocarbonate of Soda and our Travel Section talks about travelling alone on a budget. This is suitable lead-in, perhaps, to another article which tells what to do when your dog can’t go without you.

There are many other additional features and useful hints in this issue. To ensure you receive your copy each month contact our Subscription Department at 071-91-54538 or e-mail info@matureliving.ie.

Seamus Casey - Editor

LAST MONTH’S COMPETITION WINNER

News 10 things you should know about Bicarbonate of Soda One to one with Duncan Stewart Shirley Temple Common questions about dental implants answered New advice for new grandparents A glimpse into the past Galway Bay Hotel Competition Home Heating Services The Bands of our Showband era Travel Alone Without Breaking the Bank Alternative Therapies Youth Boosters Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability Nursing Home Guide Delicious Seafood Supper!

When your dog can’t go with You Hotels Guide Angelscopes Services Directory Dating

4 6

10 12 13 15 16 18 20 24 26 28 30 32

37 40 41 42 44 45 47

Winner of the two night breakaway to The Clarion Hotel, Sligo is Mag Burke of Foxford, Co. Mayo.

Editorial: Seamus Casey seamus@matureliving.ie Design: Stephen Finney steve@matureliving.ie Advertising Sales: Lisa Gilmartin lisa@matureliving.ie

Published by: IBS Publications Limited 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.

News

Microchipping legislation welcomed

L

egislation providing for compulsory microchipping of dogs is expected to be published shortly, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine has told Galway West TD Brian Walsh.

Deputy Walsh, who raised the matter with the Minister this week,

welcomed the announcement that legislation requiring all dogs to be microchipped will soon come before the Dáil.

He said that mandatory microchipping would act as a deterrent to dog theft, reunite more stray dogs with their owners, and

make it easier to identify and prosecute perpetrators of animal cruelty. “I am pleased that there has been progress in relation to this legislation, and we are on course to see compulsory microchipping rolled out in Ireland as early as next year,” said Deputy Walsh.

“This is an important policy objective and one that will be welcomed by dog lovers, livestock owners, and anyone with an interest in animal welfare.” A variety of options for phasing in the requirement to microchip dogs is currently considered. These include making microchipping mandatory for newly born pups after a certain date, making it mandatory for all dogs sold or gifted after a certain date, or making it mandatory for all dogs within a set timeframe.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Simon Coveney told Deputy Walsh that a number of approaches were being considered.

“However, I expect to be in a position to introduce appropriate legislation shortly,” he added.

Third Age - committed to promoting the value of older people

Third Age is a national voluntary organisation committed to the promoting the value of older people in local communities throughout Ireland. Third Age has over 1,400 volunteers, mainly older people working variously as tutors, listeners, advocates, and in a variety of intergenerational programmes.

Third Age has three national programmes: Senior Help Line – a national confidential listening service for older people. Senior Help Line received 28,500 calls in 2013, and supports callers by listening empathetically, empowering the caller, and referring to other appropriate services as required. Failte Isteach – ‘Welcome In’ provides free classes in conversational English to migrants.

Failte Isteach has 559 volunteers

working in 60 centres throughout Ireland, their work impacting positively on 1,600 families each week. Failte Isteach is helping to break down barriers and foster integration in communities.

The Third Age National Advocacy Programme – provides independently trained volunteer advocates to work one-to-one with residents in nursing homes. At present 132 advocates offer a service in 105 nursing homes.

The service also manages a web site myhomefromhome.ie displaying accurate up-to-date advice for families who need to choose a nursing home, and a Personal Excellence programme for care staff. The advocacy programme currently benefits residents, families, nursing home staff and relevant professionals.

Third Age’s national office is in

Page 4 Mature Living February 2014

Summerhill, Co Meath where a programme is offered to 100 local members. The covers volunteering opportunities, arts, choir, health initiatives, Internet Cafe, library, laundry and complementary therapy sessions. The organisation also manages a number of local and regional programmes. Established over 10 years ago, the Knitting Project supplies Third Age members who teach knitting to primary school children. As well as passing on a useful craft, the Knitting Project develops positive relationships between old and young thus helping to combat ageism, and limit negative attitudes towards older people.

Another intergenerational project ‘The Way We Were’ brings history alive and gives primary school children a glimpse of days gone by. A group of members in Summerhill members have collected over 100 artefacts – items from homes, attics and barns - and assembled these into a memorable exhibition. Members host and present this exhibition in schools where it is most enthusiastically received. In response to requests, the members are now bringing the exhibition to nursing homes where it is proving to be reminiscence therapy at its best.

A philosophy of engagement underlines the Third Age philosophy.

There is a desire to connect older people with their communities through providing programmes which contribute to continued engagement in life, and which also serve the community. Third Age needs volunteers from time to time for its various programmes. If you would like more information, or literature, telephone 046-9557766, or log on to www.thirdageireland.ie

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News

10 things you should know about Bicarbonate of Soda cheap but effective product which has been in use since Egyptian times.

By Lisa Brandon

W

ith the minefield of different products available for cleaning, hygiene and even medicinal use, it’s hard to figure out how to spread the cost to cover these in a weekly shop. Especially with rising prices in almost every product it’s hard to keep on top of it all. Why not cut these bills to a euro a week to cover a whole variety of uses with just one product.

Bicarbonate of soda, otherwise known as Bread

soda, Baking Soda or Bicarb, is available in every local shop across Ireland, and it should be at the top of everyone’s shopping list.

It’s a naturally occurring mineral and one of the safest most versatile substances around used for medicinal and countless household purposes, according to Dr Mercola of www.mercola.com. Taken internally, it balances the ph of the body resulting in relief from many ailments.

Here are just a small variety of uses from this simple,

Medicinal Uses To relieve indigestion, just take a glass of water with ½ tsp of bicarb.

To relieve heartburn or acid reflux, add ½ a tsp of baking soda to 2 tbsp of lemon juice and drink.

Urinary tract infections can be cleared and pain relieved from taking ½ tsp of baking soda in a small glass of water every two hours until pain has stopped. Help dry out cold sores or mouth ulcers by making a paste with bicarb and a tiny bit of water.

For insect bites or bee stings, take a tsp of bicarb, mix with a small bit of water and paste onto the bite to relieve stinging, swelling and itching.

People of any age can relieve tired aching muscles after any activity by drinking 1 tsp of bicarb in a tall glass of water.

Natural odorizer.

Fed up of spending a fortune on expensive deodorants filled with chemicals? Just make a paste out bicarb and water and brush lightly under arms. It stops both the smell

and the excessive sweating.

Are someone’s smelly trainers stinking out a room?

Sprinkle a dusting of bicarb inside each shoe before going to bed at night and empty out in the morning before putting them on.

If smelly feet are the bigger issue, try a foot bath filled with warm water, half a cup of bicarb and some salt, and soothe those tired feet while neutralising any odours.

Household Cleaning Instead of buying expensive chemical laden kitchen cleaners, why not use bicarb? Sprinkle onto worktops, kitchen sinks and just wipe clean with a damp cloth. It can also be used as a replacement for washing up liquid.

Another good tip to save on washing powder detergents, mix half your usual amount with half a cup of bicarb and see your washing come out odour and stain free while saving half your weekly spend on washing powder.

There are hundreds of uses for bicarbonate of soda, all non toxic and safe to use internally and in your home.

Why not try these and experience the benefits for yourself?

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Celebrating the life of Delia Murphy Ballina Arts Centre

L

iam Clancy, in talking about the importance of singer Delia Murphy, said that she was a pivotal figure who took up the Irish ballad and turned it into something of her own. She was the single most important person in preserving this form of music and enabling it to have the life and popularity it has today.

Today Delia Murphy lives on through her songs, still played on Irish radio today and reissued on CDs. She continues to be cherished by all those who loved her singing and remember her from the innumerable occasions she graced the airwaves of Radio Éireann with her popular songs. She is not forgotten for her many recordings heard on gramophone and in dancehalls throughout Ireland and the wonderful concerts she sang in, both at home and abroad.

Born in 1903 in Mount Jennings, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Delia was the child of a wealthy family. Her father, born poor, made his fortunes in the Klondyke and Leadville mines and bought the big house when he came home. She was educated in Tuam Convent and later at University College Galway. She met and married Thomas Kiernan who began his diplomatic career when he was appointed Secretary to the Irish High Commissioner in London. From then on he was Director General of Radio Éireann and Ambassador in many countries, including the Vatican

and the United States.

Delia had her own indomitable personality and despite her husband’s postings, continued to make her songs popular through concerts, impromptu appearances and recordings. Well known songs of Delia include, If I were a Blackbird, The Spinning Wheel and Three Lovely Lassies but she is known and loved for many more and had a repertoire of hundreds.

At Ballina Arts Centre, on Friday 21st February, at 8pm, Hello Delia Murphy will celebrate the life of this iconic singer in talk, story and song. The show is based around recollections of the life and times of Delia by her niece Carmen Cullen, and commentary on the pivotal role she played in the history of Irish music and song. The show includes a comedy interlude and a dramatised reading by Carmen from her published novel Two Sisters Singing, inspired by a larger than life Delia. The show also features music

by Gerry Anderson – playing Delia’s airs and looking at the people she inspired afterwards, as Ireland’s first lady of song – and songs sung by actress and singer Maureen O'Donovan, including some of Delia’s favourites such as The Spinning Wheel and If I were a Blackbird, with a chance for the audience to join in!

More information: Ballina Arts Centre, tel: 096 783593 www.ballinaartscentre.com

Tel: 071-9144479

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At Murphy Ballantyne, Solicitors, our service combines the personal touch of the family solicitor with a range of specialist advice relevant to clients. We provide a strictly confidential, courteous service, all at the highest professional standards.

Please contact John or Carol on the above number to arrange an appointment or email john@murphyballantyne.ie or carol@murphyballantyne.ie

News

Fractora non surgical face lift as used in the ‘Harley street clinic’ shown on Sky Living available at Salus Beauty

By Gehane Habib of Bella Clinic, MBCHB, MSc

T

here’s no shame in admitting it - we all look at celebrities and marvel at the freshness and radiance of their skin -

reminding ourselves at the same time that they have access and money to the leading practitioners in the world. Since launching Bella Clinics in 2011, I’m committed to making advanced anti-aging

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technology available in the north west at prices ordinary men and women can afford. And that means – these innovative nonsurgical rejuvena- tion techniques are no longer the reserve of celebrities only. I’m a fully qualified medical doctor with substantial specialist training in aesthetic practices. Even with my background, I can be daunted by the amount of in- formation, sometimes confusing and contradictory information, on the latest aesthetic procedures.

At Bella Clinic we offer you straightforward options in a no-nonsense matter because we know that fundamentally our clients want results.

And this is a results-driven practice.

Over the next three months, I’ll be using this column to present the range of age-defying options we can offer and help you make an informed decision on what treatment suits you best.

The Fractora Machine from Invasix is a non-invasive, skin treatment that delivers results. Now you too can get the Hollywood look, direct from Harley Street, with our Frac- tora

Machine. Regarded as one of the most powerful techniques on the global market, it has featured on ‘Sky Living’ documentary series ‘Stitch Me, Lift Me, Tuck me’.

We are using the Fractora system to treat an increasing number of male clients to lift sagging skin, en- hance facial contouring and reduce wrinkles and lines. Fractora is also recommended for a range of problematic skin conditions including deep acne scarring. We can treat the neck, back and shoulder area as well as any other part of the body.

The sustained, precisely control- led heat is complexly comfortable.

Over the next two months, I’ll be using this column to present the range of age-defying options we can offer and help you make an informed decision on what treatment suits you best.

Call into Salus Beauty Salon on Main Street, Ballisodare or call them on 071-9130707 for more details on the treatments.

The next Clinic will be held on Thurs the 6th of March at the Salon.

Protect your home And pour pocket from the hidden dangers of limescale

D

id you know that each year, in a hard water area, the average family home will use water containing 70kg (154lbs) of scale. The Carbon Trust estimate that just 1mm of limescale in water pipes increases energy consumption by 7%. With utility bills set to rise for the foreseeable future, this represents a significant cost to the average family home.

Limescale build-up reduces the lifespan of appliances and increases the likelihood of a breakdown. Even if you ignore the hidden dangers lurking in your water system, physical evidence of limescale damage is all too evident throughout your home. In the kitchen, taps, tiles and stainless steel surfaces all bear the hallmarks of limescale damage. Evidence can be found on your pots and pans and,

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unless your dishwasher has just been installed, you will find tell tale water spots and stains on just-washed glasses and cutlery, too. In bathrooms, toilets, taps and tiles are dulled with scale damage, and the once-sparkling sink and shiny shower enclosure are almost impossible to keep clean for any length of time.

Even freshly washed clothes feel rough to the touch, and tiny scale particles can contribute to incidences of dry, irritating skin for yourself and family members.

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Somebody’s parent, Somebody’s grandparents

By Patricia Conboy

T

he Simon Communities of Ireland recently launched a report, “Homelessness, Ageing and Dying” which I strongly recommend to readers of Mature Living. Researched and written by Dr. Kathy Walsh and funded by Age & Opportunity, the report casts light on the perspectives of older homeless people. This is a group whose voices have, until now, been largely silent in public discussion on ageing and older people.

In the course of her research, the author conducted in-depth interviews with sixteen individuals, thirteen male and three female. Their stories merit careful reading both because of the insight they give us into the experience of ageing as a homeless person; and because they highlight the diversity of our ageing population. We cannot devise and implement effective public policies and plans for older people unless we appreciate the diversity of their lived experience.

The definition of old age is not as straightforward as it might seem. Typically we align State Pension age and the start of old age. In Ireland, average life expectancy of is 76.8 and of women is 81.6 but life expectancy figures for homeless people are not available. In England, the average age of death of a homeless man has been set at 47 years and of a homeless woman at 43 years. With life expectancy shortened by problematic drug and alcohol use, higher rates of suicide, accidents, falls and vulnerability to earlier onset of physical and mental illnesses associated with old age, homeless people aged 50 and over are typically counted as ‘older homeless’; and that was the approach applied in this study. The average age of the sixteen research participants was 61 years. Ten had children and some had grandchildren.

Five were in contact with their children at the time of the research.

Sometimes discussions about old age are conducted as if people are born old and are, somehow, a group who are ‘other’ than the rest of us. But old age comes to all of us, and the quality of our lives and health in old age is hugely influenced by earlier life course experiences, both good and bad. The stories presented in this report illustrate how inequality and trauma influence people’s paths into homelessness and extreme social exclusion. For some, the experience was of early school-leaving, early emigration, alcohol abuse; for others, the first experience of homelessness was in their fifties and was associated with loss or breakdown of a long-term relationship, followed by a court order requiring them to vacate the family home.

How much pain and suffering could have been averted with effective, early intervention ?

In this sensitive research study, Murphy also explored attitudes to dying with the participants and found that they did not want to die alone, that most expressed a strong desire to die where they were (in supported accommodation) or in hospital, and that they did not want to be transferred to a nursing home.

The report concludes with policy recommendations regarding health care and services, end of life care, accommodation and further research.

Walsh, K.,(2013)Homelessness, Ageing and Dying, Simon Community and Age & Opportunity is available from: http://www.simon.ie/Publications/Research.aspx Blog: www.patriciaconboy.com Twitter : @PatriciaConboy1

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Feature by Gerry Walsh

By Gerry Walsh

I

F there’s one thing that becomes apparent after speaking for just a few minutes with Duncan Stewart it’s his sincerity and passion for what he does. The award-winning architect and ecological design and energy specialist is probably one of Ireland’s most liked TV personalities. This, no doubt, also accounts for the jump in the ratings for his popular Eco Eye TV programme, which now screens at 7 p.m. on Tuesday evenings on RTE 1. With 745,000 viewers per programme on average, it has become even more popular than the Late Late.

With hand on heart he can say that he has never received a complaint about the programme. People are waking up to the fact that climate change is now a big issue and we have taken the environment for granted for too long. He also lives by example; he cycles to work each day to his office at Earth Horizon Productions Ltd. which he set up in 1997.

Currently, Duncan lives in Dublin with his Swedish wife, Agneta. He has five children, ranging from 31 to 21. His son, Marcus, who is 6’6” (and plays rugby) works with him as a producer; his daughter, Tanya, works as a presenter. Another son, who has a Masters in Rural Development, works in Upsala,

Swedan, while his younger son is studying engineering in Trinity College.

Born in Clonmel 66 years ago, Duncan was one of a family of six. His father was an army officer and as part of the nomadic lifestyle (as he put it) he moved to Dublin on transfer when Duncan was six. His mother was a creative person who actually wrote two books and a total of 300 songs. His earlier (Primary) education was at Loretta Primary School, Clonmel (from 4 – 6) and from then until the age of 17 he attended Colaiste Mhuire Irish Language College in Parnell Square. He later attended the School of Architecture in UCD and qualified with a Bachelor of Architecture at the age of 22.

He also has a Diploma in Arbitration Law from the Dublin Institute of Technology, Bolton Street.

Even in those days Duncan was making waves. He was VicePresident of USI and involved in arts festivals and protests on many issues of the day; a notable one was when part of the Grand Canal was threatened with closure to make way for a motorway. He was also animated about the way Georgian Dublin was being raped by developers.

After spending short periods working abroad in Vienna and Amsterdam he came back to lecture in the School of Architecture, DIT, Bolton Street at the age of 23 and spent over 20 years lecturing there. During those early years he carried out extensive research on

Page 10 Mature Living February 2014

Sustainable Energy in Building Design. But the 1973 Oil Crisis was a wake-up call for him and he felt that the focus of architectural teaching was all wrong. We were locked into fossil fuels for our heating systems and oil burners were being installed in houses everywhere.

With colleagues Owen Lewis (UCD) and engineer and mentor John Cash, he started to pioneer solar energy systems. They began to develop the techniques and the new generation of students responded well to the concept. While there may have been some interest in the alternatives and a movement towards design for energy efficiency at that time when the price of oil dropped people went back to it again.

He felt the alternative solution was TV programmes.

Householders were not being provided with the appropriate information so he set about to rectify this. RTE turned down their request for programming, but they managed to get funding from other state agencies, including Coillte. So, “Our House” was born (1990), followed later by “About the House” By now, Duncan had established his own production company and produced many other programmes and documentaries. One such production was “Dublin City Past and Future”, highlighting the changing face of Dublin and the problem of urban sprawl. The “Wood from the Trees” series examined forests in Ireland and

Europe and dealt with the ecology of forests, the uses we make of wood and the woodlands as a habitat for wildlife. There was also “The State We’re In” series and, of course, the popular “Eco Eye”, which is now in its twelfth year.

When I asked Duncan for his views on what is happening in Ireland now in terms of climate change his response was unequivocal. “Make no mistake, it IS happening, it’s real and it’s caused by ourselves, primarily because of our use of fossil fuels. Worldwide, we have reached the point where atmospheric concentration of CO2 has reached 400 parts per million, which is frightening considering the level was between 180 and 280 for the last 500,000 years. So, we’re 40% above the maximum level experienced for that period and

the level we’re at now was not there for more than 3 million years.

“As the number of middleclass in the population grows we are consuming more carbonintensive fossil fuels with greater emissions. Here in Ireland 94% of our energy needs comes from oil, gas, coal and peat, with only 6% coming from renewables. We have the highest greenhouse gas emission levels in Europe and we import 90% of our energy fuels at a cost of €6.5 billion per year.

“We will experience more and more flooding. We are changing our climate and increasing our temperature levels. There has been an 0.8°C rise in global mean surface temperature since 1900. Look at what’s happening to ice in the artic and the changing global weather conditions.

In Australia, temperature levels have been breaking all records. South west US has been experiencing draughts while there have been incredible freezing temperatures in the North and North East. This unpredictable weather is due to climate change, all caused by humans. By the end of the century, if nothing is done this can reach +4°C or +6°C, with catastrophic consequences.

“The Copenhagen Accord, 2009, failed to deliver an agreement on global warming, primarily due to the stubbornness of the US and China. It was agreed to hold to a maximum of a +2°C rise in global temperatures – even that is dangerous, according to science.

“We are in denial, because of the power wielded by the fossil fuel industry who are very vocal and spend billions discrediting climate change which is accelerating all the time. The World Bank, in a Report, “+4°C – turn down the Heat” in 2012 predicted a +4°C change this century. This level of climate change would mean there is no future for our children and grandchildren and the change will be irreversible and selfperpetuating.”

While Duncan is alarmed at the level of self-destruction taking place he appreciates how difficult it will be to control it.

The fossil fuel industry wants to maintain its position and there is employment, pension funds and other related industries dependent on it. According to the Grantham Institute of Climate Change (2013) there was $4 trillion of share value investment in reserves of oil, gas or coal in 2012. 4/5 of that will be unburnable stranded assets if we are to achieve the +2°C target. We will use only one-fifth of what we will have

expended and investors will have lost a fortune.

“In Ireland, reality is hitting us very quickly. 50,000 households can’t get home insurance because of the propensity to flooding. These numbers will grow massively in the next few years. We have to assess and prepare. Our government and politicians generally are not taking the matter seriously enough as there are no votes in climate change, but it will have a major impact on our children’s futures.

“Somehow, we’ll have to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, wean off fossil fuels and reduce flights abroad, if possible. We have to, somehow, plan for the future. Studies have not been done to examine the choices. The recent pylon controversy is an example, though wind is our lifeline. We have inefficient power plants.

We will spend €65bn over the next ten years on oil, gas and coal imports.”

Duncan admits he is fortunate to be alive after an accident close to the nuclear reactor at Chernobyl 10 years ago. He had not been given access to the exclusion zone, but decided to take a risk and brought in a TV camera also. He took a fall and was unconscious for three days, had all ribs on his left side broken and suffered a punctured lung. He had no blood left but received excellent treatment from medical people who travelled into a small town near Belarus. He had been working as an architect with the Chernobyl Children’s Orphanages project.

The accident was a wake-up call for him also. Having survived the ordeal he felt committed to giving more back to society.

He likes to keep fit and cycles each day. He also goes to the gym twice a week and swims afterwards. He is not a fanatic

when it comes to eating, but likes to eat good food and sometimes forages in nature with berries and shellfish.

In terms of relaxation, Duncan is not into reading novels. He reads material close to his area of interest and he likes to invent things – like board games and three-dimensional structures like off-shore floating wind turbines. His spare time is precious. He is in a lot of pain at times and the busier he finds himself the better. Musically, he plays the clarinet, though he says he probably bores people with it at times. He likes traditional Irish music, jazz and classical. He wouldn’t appreciate a lot of art or architecture and is critical of his own profession in so many ways.

Duncan is a spiritual person and he admires people who are

not shy about exposing their spirituality. He dislikes those who push their own brand of spirituality at others. Religion has led to major wars. In places like Northern Ireland it was used as an excuse for sectarianism.

Religion, in its essence should help bring people together rather than divide them.

Ireland as a country has incredible potential. It has a small population with an educated youth, but many are fearful for their futures. The free market approach to economics is the main problem; the young feel disenfranchised and not provided with a fair chance. We have incredible natural resources – wind. biomass, solar, resources entrapped in the ocean, wave energy. It is a difficult time but Duncan feels we are on the cusp of positive change.

It’s already happening but it will manifest itself in the next few years. Currently at national level just 2% of our food is produced locally, compared with 40% in France and Austria. 60 – 70% of our food is imported by the food chains. 90% of our vegetables (worth €900m.) are imported each year and total food imports has reached €5bn.

The future is in small cooperatives which are beginning to mushroom in towns and villages across Ireland. These must be supported.

Only 6% of our energy is locally produced and our imported energy costs are €2,500 per year for every person in the country. If all this could be addressed it is easy to see the potential for employment and the opportunities to be created for our young people.

The government needs to see the future and get committed.

The bottom up approach needs

top down support. He has concerns for his children’s and grandchildren’s futures. While he is positive by nature his knowledge of what is happening convinces him that without major change we could be heading for a catastrophe. By 2050 the world’s population (now 7.5 bn.) will have reached 9.5 billion. Resources are under pressure but people want more.

China’s and India’s middle-class will have increased three-fold by then. Everybody wants our lifestyle. With those additional people flying, driving and burning fuels in homes the emissions will increase threefold in these countries.

Those of you who may be prompted into some action as a result of reading all this and wish to find out what will be featured in upcoming Eco Eye programmes should click onto www.earthhorizons.ie. The next issue (on Tuesday night) will feature Eco health, how lifestyle and exercise governs our health. It also deals with the issue of drugs and medicines and how anti-bodies and toxins pollute our environment, rivers and lakes. The following Tuesday highlights water in Ireland, including pollution levels, with some filming in Boyle (Roscommon) where “boil” notices are still very common.

While speaking to Duncan last week I was most impressed with his honesty and in-depth knowledge of the issues he was dealing with. I don’t think he was taking the alarmist approach; the science is there to back up everything he spoke about. We can only hope that enough people in power take note of the warnings and work towards achieving a consensus on how to save our planet.

Page 11 Mature Living February 2014

Shirley

Shirley started her career aged three but retired from films in her twenties, going on to become a US diplomat

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ormer Hollywood child star Shirley Temple died this month at the age of 85. With her adorable charm and blonde curls, she was one of the most popular stars of the 1930s, in hit movies like Bright Eyes and Stand Up and Cheer. After retiring from films in 1950 at the age of 21, Temple returned to the spotlight as a politician and diplomat. Born in 1928, Temple soon became a major star after getting her first film role at the age of three. She accepted the Screen Actors Guild Awards life achievement award in 2006 Her singing, dancing and acting

won over fans worldwide. She was given a special juvenile Oscar in 1935, when she was just six years old. To this day, she is still the youngest person to receive an Academy Award.

With the nickname "America's little darling", she was ranked as Hollywood's biggest draw for four years running from 1935 to '38 in an annual poll of US cinema owners.

Her rendition of the song On the Good Ship Lollipop in the film Bright Eyes was among her most famous performances.

Her other films included Curly Top, The Littlest Rebel, Baby

At the 1935 Oscars, presenting Claudette Colbert with her Oscar the year after Shirley won the Academy Juvenile Award for her contribution to film

Page 12 Mature Living February 2014

Temple Take a Bow and Little Miss Marker.

She was such a hit that US president Franklin Delano Roosevelt dubbed her "Little Miss Miracle" for raising morale during the Great Depression and she was credited with helping save 20th Century Fox from bankruptcy.

Temple starred in a total of 43 feature films - but found it difficult to sustain her career in adulthood and left acting behind in 1950.

She continued to appear on television, but that work dried up and she eventually stepped away from the spotlight.

When she came back into the public eye, it was in a new guise.

Under her married name Shirley Temple Black, she ran as a Republican candidate for Congress in 1967 but lost.

Richard Nixon later appointed her as a member of the US delegation to the United Nations General Assembly before President Ford named her the US ambassador to Ghana in 1974.

In 1989, she was made the US ambassador to Czechoslovakia shortly before the fall of the country's Communist regime.

She considered her background in entertainment an asset to her political career. "Politicians are actors too, don't you think?" she once said.

In a statement announcing her death, her family said: "We salute her for a life of remarkable achievements as an actor, as a diplomat, and most importantly as our beloved mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, and adored wife for 55 years of the late and much missed Charles Alden Black."

Stars paying tribute on Twitter included actress Whoopi Goldberg. "The Good Ship Lollypop has sailed today with Shirley Temple aboard," she wrote, describing her as a true one of a kind.

Film critic Leonard Maltin wrote: "One of the most talented and brightest stars in the world has gone to the sky. A genuine phenomenon.

SHIRLEY TEMPLE'S LIFE IN MOVIES Born at 9pm on 23 April 1928,

In the Blue Bird in 1940 Shirley Temple later joked: "Too late for dinner, and so I started life one meal behind. Ever since I've tried to make up for that loss."

Temple started dancing at Mrs Meglin's Dance Studio in Los Angeles aged three.

It was here, in 1931, that she was signed up a series of shorts that parodied famous films with all-child casts. She was paid $10

a day. Stand Up and Cheer was her first feature film in 1934.

A year later, aged six, she was the first recipient of a special juvenile Oscar. She holds the record as the youngest ever Oscar winner.

Her mother Gertrude did her hair for each movie. Every hairstyle had exactly 56 curls. Temple made 14 short films and 43 features during her acting career.

Starring alongside Henry Fonda, John Wayne and her husband John Agar in Fort Apache in 1948

Feature

Donate your Hair here…

Kellys of Castlebar - “We are a Rapunzel Supporting Salon”

The Rapunzel Foundation is a charitable organization that works to improve the lives of those living with hair loss through fund raising as well as through hair raising.

Its aim is to help people with hair loss through providing information, sharing stories and through the collection of pony tails for the manufacture of natural hair wigs.

Guarantee Your Copy of THE MAGAZINE FOR THE OLDER, BOLDER INDIVIDUAL

for just €35 per year!

Due to the massive uptake on the last issue of Mature Living Magazine, not everyone could be guaranteed a free copy in their local outlet.

However, we now offer a subscription service.

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ature Living is full to the brim with information on events, finance, travel, pets, food and drink, health, hobbies and much much more! For just €35 (to cover postage and admin costs) you can have Mature Living delivered to your door.

Mature Living is published once per month and a subscription covers 12 months.

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Cut out this form and send it to us at: Subscriptions, Mature Living Magazine, Office 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo

Hair is raised through the Rapunzel Foundation’s Ponytail campaign, where people commit to growing their hair with the view to their hair being sent to help make much needed wigs to improve the lives of those living with the hair loss.

Collecting ponytails from donors helps to address the current global wig-hair shortage issue and allows us to alleviate the cost of wig purchase for those who need help most.

For many ‘alopecians’ one of the best ways of dealing with alopecia is to wear a naturallooking wig made with the highest quality untreated human hair.

This means not having to worry whether or not your colleagues or the people you meet as part of your daily life can tell if you are wearing a wig.

Wearing a natural-looking wig can help give back some of the self confidence often lost after developing alopecia.

It allows people to enjoy their lives without worrying about their alopecia or their wig.

The Rapunzel Foundation is

working to boost the level of hair donation in Ireland.

We are doing this in order to increase the supply of the high quality untreated human hair which is used in the manufacture of wigs for people with alopecia and long term hair loss.

Across Ireland the Foundation is creating an awareness of alopecia, a condition which can often have a social stigma attached to it due to a lack of understanding and information.

The Rapunzel Foundation is financially assisting children and adults with alopecia who wish to wear a secure, comfortable, natural-looking human hair wig: a wig which will allow the child to engage in all aspects of their childhood, from swimming, horse-riding, gymnastics to the everyday rough and tumble of being a kid with every day living.

Kellys Hair and Beauty Salon can be contacted on 094-9022973. They are located at Castle street, Castlebar Co. Mayo.

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

6 of the most common questions about dental implants answered the quality of the bone they were placed in. Smoking can also impact on their lifespan.

When carefully carried out and looked after well, you would hope that your dental implants will last you a very long time indeed.

Are they expensive?

The cost of dental implants is about weighing up the cost of the alternatives. In comparison to the alternative options for

What is a dental implant?

The simplest way to describe a dental implant is as a replacement tooth root.

It is a small, usually titanium screw which is placed within the jaw. The jaw bone then grows around it, making it a secure anchor. After this new teeth can be fixed on top in a variety of ways.

How can dental implants replace teeth?

Dental implants are extremely versatile.

They can be used to replace one tooth, a number of teeth, many teeth, all your teeth, or to keep a denture secure in your mouth.

You can have teeth which are fixed in place like natural teeth, or removable teeth which clip on and off the dental implants.

Do I need one implant per missing tooth?

This is a very common misconception. You don’t need to replace each tooth with an implant. For example, in a 3 tooth space you could put three teeth on 2 dental implants. Or a whole jaw of missing teeth on 4-6 dental implants. This really depends on the clinical situation and what type of restoration (new teeth) you want.

tooth replacement, such as a bridge, dental implants may cost a bit more, but you would expect them to last much longer. Whereas a bridge relies on the continued health of the natural teeth supporting it, a dental implant has the huge benefit of being independent.

So dental implants are usually a better long term investment.

Plus, you can change the teeth on top if you ever need to have a different type of restoration.

Is getting dental implants painful?

The procedure should be painless. Afterwards you will have some mild discomfort for 2-3 days, but this is similar to that of dental extractions. The mouth heals very quickly, and you will usually find the healing period passes very rapidly.

How long will they last?

Dental implants are typically the most long term option for tooth replacement. Their longevity is dependent on a number of factors: these include how well they are cared for, the quality of their placement and restoration, and

‘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.

Feature

New advice for new grandparents

P

arenting has changed since we raised our own perfect children. In fact, if you’re a grandparent for the first time, it might be time to brush up on what the parenting trends and philosophies are today. The Internet as well as parenting books and magazines have lots of information and might be a good investment of time if you want to be a supportive parent as well as an essential part of the newborn’s life. Here are some guidelines to follow to give you a head start on the new parenting philosophies and impress your children, the new parents.

Many of us remember the advice to “let a baby cry it out,” when we were new parents, on the premise that picking up the baby every time she cried would “spoil her.” Happily, that theory is a myth. The truth is a baby under the age of four months has not developed any self-soothing skills. In fact, picking up a baby when she cries teaches her that a parent or grandparent is always there to take care of her. Babies respond positively to touch and especially skin contact. Babies thrive when they are held close to a warm body and can hear a beating heart. So go ahead and pick up that baby and cuddle as

often as you want—if you can pry the baby out of the parents’ arms, that is.

Sleeping is another parenting issue that has changed. Not only are there safety regulations about crib dimensions and new guidelines about bumper pads and duvet covers, there are also new standards about sleeping positions and rituals. If you were a parent who put your baby to sleep on his tummy, throw that advice out. The safest position for a baby to sleep is on his back. In fact, studies have linked other positions to higher rates of SIDS. We may also have been given advice that a baby sleeps best in a dark, completely silent room. Today’s theories suggest that babies sleep just as well with a bit of light and some background noise. In fact, if they become accustomed to a little noise and light, they may be more apt to sleep in any situation (such as grandma’s house). We might also have been told to change a wet diaper in the middle of the night, but today, diapers are very absorbent and urine is sterile, so there’s no need to change a wet diaper. Poopy diapers, however, should be changed, especially for baby girls, to prevent a bladder infection.

Feeding rituals for babies are different now too. Most babies start out with breast milk, and if we thought babies should be fed on a strict schedule, that theory has also been debunked.

A baby has an internal hunger

monitor to tell her when she’s hungry and when she’s full.

Putting a baby on a strict feeding schedule may actually affect eating habits negatively.

We also believed when raising our children that a little rice

cereal in the night-time bottle would help the baby sleep longer. In fact, studies have shown that introducing solid food too early may be linked to obesity in later life. One positive change regarding feeding is that bottles and nipples don’t have to be sterilized religiously after every use. They should be sterilized as soon as they are taken out of the package, but after that, soap and water is fine. Bathing rituals are much more relaxed for babies these days. They only need a bath every two or three days, unless of course there’s a dirty diaper in the mix or it’s just a relaxing routine at the end of the day.

They do need moisturizer for their skin afterwards and they do need a little bit of sunscreen during sunlight hours if they’re outdoors, especially for exposed areas such as their faces and hands.

Besides boning up on the new parenting guidelines to be a savvy grandparent, being helpful to the parents will endear you to them during the first few weeks after the baby’s arrival and secure your place as a thoughtful parent and grandparent. Sometimes, new parents need their own time to bond with the baby and reconnect with each other, so give them their space and time. But they will appreciate your availability to run errands, and filling their fridge and freezer with prepared meals and healthy snacks will make their new schedule with baby more manageable.

Page 15 Mature Living February 2014

Feature by Larina James

A glimpse into the past with a very special set of postcards

Patrick Herbert

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AMES McConnell is a busy man on the evening I contact him. He is doing some work in a house that contains some very special photographs and postcards. On this Wednesday evening he allows me a fascinating glimpse into the life of his ancestors.

The obvious enthusiasm which James displays when speaking about his ancestors and the aforementioned photographs, make me want to delve a little deeper into this story which provides a rare opportunity to have a look at a part of social life in Ireland which I guess is largely forgotten.

James McConnell resides in the lovely town of Navan , Co Meath with his family. He has in his possession a wonderful collection of old postcards and photographs dating back to the late 1800’s, among them are those of his relatives Kate and Patrick Herbert.

The practice back then was to have your photograph taken professionally in a studio and made into a postcard, this practice continued right up to the 1920’s when more modern methods became popular. It is evident from the photographs that a lot of thought and

Kate Herbert

preparation went into the production of them. Clothes, hair style etc. would warrant meticulous detail as this might be the only chance to portray ones best image and of course they were a snapshot in time preserved for posterity. They are photographs from an era which had no modern methods of communication at its disposal and indeed travel would have been inconvenient and downright dangerous at times, so in order to encourage the art of dating and meeting prospective life partners usually the mother in the household would take her single sons or more commonly daughters to a professional photographer to have their photographs taken , these photographs in turn would be imposed onto postcards which could be posted on to family and friends and provide a valuable tool of communicatthe house"Wagrowiecion. They were especially welcome to family members who had emigrated and were living abroad for a long period of time.

One of the functions of the postcards was to check out partners for the McConnell family members one example being the lovely Kate Herbert who was the great aunt of James. As is evident from the photographs Kate and her family would have pulled out all the stops on the day the pictures were taken and no expense was spared in order to show Kate or her brother Patrick at their very best.

Confidence and poise are abundantly evident in these beautiful photographs and they hark back to a bygone era where the attention to detail and the quest for near perfection is very evident.

Kate Herbert was born in 1879 and Patrick who was Grandfather of James McConnell was born the following year in 1880. They were born in Churchtown near

Navan , Co Meath, the youngest children of thrice married George Herbert whose family were linen merchants at that time. Lots has changed since this period back in Navan but as mentioned earlier this method was also used to perhaps attract a potential partner, it allowed an opportunity for Kate and Patrick to maybe check out a romance or show an interest in a member of the opposite sex. Nowadays Facebook and Snap chat are widely accepted methods of communication but back in the Christina Herbert

Ireland of the late 1800’s Kate and Patrick Herbert had a viable, reliable and tasteful way of marketing themselves which has stood the test of time and today the quality and durability of the pictures is still evident. The message was sweetly subtle, the expression of an eye, the tilt of the head or the proud demeanour all added to the unspoken message that would hopefully issue an invitation to call for tea or maybe to the forthcoming dance . Today as I gaze at the

photo of Kate Herbert as a young woman it is indeed hardly surprising that she was inundated with such invites as according to Jame’s mother who is now aged 92, her niece Kate was known as the pheasant because of her great beauty, poise, confidence and style. This method of capturing a moment in time has indeed stood the test and as such provides a wonderful insight into one of the many avenues explored back then as an aid to romance and possible marriage.

Kate and Patrick’s descendants, teenagers , Jack, Brid and Sara McConnell have access to social media on a scale that would have been wholly unimaginable back in the life time of Kate and Patrick.

Facebook is used for every type of social interaction known to man and Snapchat produces a picture message that lasts for no longer than 5 seconds. The spontaneity and” ever ready” message that emanates from the media of today is all good and well but the handiwork of the photographer back in Navan during the late 1800’s surely bears testament to the sheer staying power of his work and that of his subjects Kate and Patrick Herbert. More than a century later they remain timeless proving in the words of James McConnell that a picture paints a thousand words.

Bridget Herbert

Breakaways

Visit the stunning Leitrim countryside 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.

O

ne 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 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 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

Drumshanbo • Co Leitrim www.loughallenhotel.com

Spring Special Offer 2 Nights B&B and 1 Dinner Only €99 Per Person Sharing

Please mention Mature Living Leinster when booking

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

Enjoy the beautiful views of the untouched countryside of Mayo

J

oin us here at Knock House Hotel and enjoy the beautiful views of the untouched countryside of County Mayo. It is a haven of peace and the perfect setting for a relaxing break. Located just 20 minutes from “Ireland West Airport Knock” and 10 minutes from Claremorris Train Station. Take up our 4 Day special Offer for February and March of €199 includes 4 Nights B&B and 4 Evening Meals.

During your break with us we cater to your every need , and it’s a lovely opportunity to make friends and mix with like- minded people. Enjoy our Four Seasons Restaurant which overlooks a beautiful garden and captures the magnificent spire of the Basilica. Over the years it has earned an enviable reputation of food, wine & service.

Knock House Hotel is within minutes of wonderful attractions including Knock Marian Shrine and Museum. Within a short drive; Fr Peyton Memorial, Museum of Country Life (Turlough ), Foxford Woollen Mills and the Western Greenway Cycling Route, and within an hour’s drive, Kylemore Abbey, Michael Davitt Museum and Ceide Fields. Local outdoor activities include hiking and walking, golf, horse riding and angling. Enniscrone Beach is within a 40 min drive where you can swim, surf or enjoy a seaweed bath.

To book this wonderful deal please call Karen on 0949388088

Special Offer From Knock House Hotel 4 Nights Bed,Breakfast and 4 Evening meals February and March €199 When you call to book Quote : Mature Living PHONE KAREN NOW! *This offer is exclusive to Mature Living Readers and can not be used in conjunc"on with any other offers. *Subject to availability *Terms and Condi"ons apply

Knock House Hotel, Knock, Co Mayo www.knockhousehotel.ie • info@knockhousehotel.ie Tel: 094 9388088 • Fax: 094 9388044

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

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4 nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

€199 pp

5th Night B&B FREE

Offer Available Selected Dates Only – Call for Details

INCLUDES: Full complimentary daily and nightly entertainment program Transfers local Bus & Train Station Use of the leisure centre facilities

Escape to Breaffy House Resort to Relax, Unwind and Revive To Book: Call us now on 094 90 22033 or email to reservations@breaffyhouseresort.ie Bookings on line www.breaffyhouseresort.com Page 42 Mature Living February 2014

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.

The 4 Star Galway Bay Hotel …is beautif!lly sit!ated on the promenade in Salthill overlooking the Clare Hills and the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy fine dining, g"eat food and g"eat ‘craic ag!s ceoil’ in this award winning ‘Best 4 Star Hotel’.

A Shoppers paradise awaits you just 5 minutes #om the hotel, along with g"eat eateries, comedy clubs and a superb nightlife…something for ever$one.

To Be in with a chance of winning this Fantastic Prize, Simply answer the question below and send your answer, along with your name, address, email address and telephone number to us at the address below.. .

Q: The Galway Bay is sit!ated on the Salthill Promenade over looking which hills?

Send your ent"ies into us at: Galway Bay Hotel Competition, Mat!re Living Magazine, Office 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo Ter&s and Conditions apply, Closing Date for enties is March 10th 2014

The Promenade, Salthill, Galway • Tel: 091-518320 Email: Info@ galwaybayhotel.com • www.galwaybayhotel.com

EYE CARE

EyeGardening Care

by Rachel Murray Eyecare - Tobergal Lane, Sligo • Tel: 071-9142860

Why do women need reading glasses earlier than men?

E

ver wondered why us ladies need reading glasses earlier then men? No, it’s not because we sat too close to the TV as children or that our eyes are weaker. According to a recent study, women need glasses sooner than men because our arms are shorter and we prefer to read books closer to our face. With age it becomes more and more difficult to read at arm's length, women must turn to presbyopia correction such as reading glasses sooner.

Accordingly, we also need higherpowered reading lenses than men of the same age.

In short, presbyopia is an eye condition that affects everyone once you reach the age of 40-45.

At that point, objects close up start to look blurred and you may develop headaches, eye strain or feel fatigued.

To see a book you’re trying to read clearly, you may have to s-tr-e-t-c-h your arms farther from your eyes. Of course, you can only stretch your arms so far.

So what can you do to correct presbyopia? Read on!

Let’s better define presbyopia As we’ve said, presbyopia affects all of us—100% —at a certain age.

It’s common and thankfully easily correctable. But you’re probably wondering what causes

presbyopia to occur around our mid-forties. Here’s the answer.

Within our eyes, sitting right beneath the iris, rests the crystalline lens. It helps refract, or bend, light in our eyes and pass it to the retina. You can almost think of it as a camera lens that adjusts for focusing. As we get older, the crystalline lens loses its elasticity, worsening until you reach your early 60s.

Like a badly adjusted camera, the eye no longer focuses the image correctly.

Now you may be wondering if there are any eye exercises for presbyopia that you can do to prevent this from happening.

Unfortunately, no.

But there are steps you can take to correct the problem once it occurs.

designed to restore clear and accurate vision at all distances, without needing to constantly change glasses. The upper part of the lens makes it possible to see things far away, the central part to see the middle distance and the lower part to see close up. Because the human lens continues to change as you grow older, your presbyopic prescription will need to be increased over time as well. You can expect your optician to prescribe a stronger correction for near work as you need it.

How to correct presbyopia If you or your family members are experiencing conditions like presbyopia symptoms—blurry vision perhaps, or difficultly in focusing on objects up close, then you need to visit an optician. Once you know for sure that you have presbyopia, it’s time to explore your options to correct it.

Contact lenses Ask yourself this – would you like to enjoy clear vision without the need for glasses? If so then contact lenses could be the option for you, nowadays many people continue wearing or even begin wearing contact lenses in middle age and beyond.

Multifocal contacts can help you read objects that are close and far, as well as keep your glasses in your pocket. Today’s silicon hydrogel contacts are much more comfortable and can be worn longer than those from a decade or so ago.

Eyewear • Simple reading glasses are the basic solution. They only correct near vision, around 40cm away.

To see things far away, you need to remove your glasses or look over them.

• Mid-distance lenses are the intermediate solution. These allow you to see clearly close-up and with a wider field of vision.

With this type of lens it is possible to read a newspaper while being able to see those around you clearly.

• Progressive lenses are the optimum solution. These are

Remember, eyesight is one of the most precious gifts we have, so look after it. If you think that you may be experiencing symptoms of presbyopia, contact Rachel Murray Eyecare on 0719142860 or www.rachelmurrayeyecare.ie to make an appointment, or simply call in.

The condition will only get worse, and there’s no reason for you to put up with the headaches and difficulties that can accompany blurry vision.

Offer applies to selected designer frames only

Servicing your boiler The Biggest & Best Value Fireplace Showrooms in Ireland

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As with all heating appliances, your boiler should be serviced on a regular basis to ensure that it is operating efficiently and safely. The service should be carried out by a qualified and experienced service technician / service engineer.

More information regarding boiler service providers and service contractors can be found on the following websites: Natural Gas fired boilers – rgii.ie LPG fired boilers - ilpga.ie Oil fired boilers - oftec.org What should I expect when a service engineer arrives?

When carried out by a competent technician, a boiler service should entail little disruption to your routine. A typical service should take around an hour and leave you with a safe and efficiently operating appliance.

A service engineer will perform a number of tests on the boiler during a service. This will depend in part on the fuel and boiler. While there is no set standard or regulation specifying what constitutes a boiler service at this time, we have prepared checklists of the type of work that the Service Technician should carry out during the course of a typical service.

Why should I service my Boiler?

An annual boiler safety check and boiler service, carried out by a professional service engineer ensures that your boiler is functioning properly.

Regular servicing of your boiler is important as it ensures that the boiler is working to the specifications designed by the boiler manufacturer. This will help prolong the life of the boiler as well as reduce the risk of faults and expensive repairs down the line.

The efficiency of boilers, both oil and gas fired, deteriorates with use. There are several reasons for this, the key ones being: Soot production from the combustion process coats the heat exchanger surfaces.

The critical air-to-fuel combustion ratio changes due to gradual component wear.

A boiler service will remove any sooting and, by adjustment, will re-establish the optimum combustion conditions. But while optimising operating efficiency is paramount in these days of rising fuel costs, there are other important benefits in having your boiler serviced: By checking the safety controls, early failures can be

detected and rectified in good time.

A variety of operational systems and components will be checked including: - Gas/Oil leaks - Boiler start-up performance - Noises that give an early warning signal of pending component failures.

Just like cars, boilers can operate for many years without servicing but generally with fuel consumption penalties, undermined reliability and even safety implications.

What is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon Monoxide (also known as CO) is a colourless, odourless poisonous gas and is a common yet preventable cause of death from poisoning worldwide.

Approximately half of the

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deaths from unintentional CO poisonings result from the inhalation of smoke from fires. Other significant causes are vehicle exhausts and deaths in industrial / commercial settings. On average between 1 and 2 people die each year in Ireland from unintentional CO poisoning in the home in incidents related to domestic heating or other fossil fuel installations in the home (i.e. excluding the inhalation of smoke from fires).

The incomplete combustion of organic fossil fuels such as oil, gas or coal is a common environmental source of CO and is responsible for many cases of non-fatal unintentional CO poisoning. In normal conditions the combustion process (the addition of oxygen) will result in carbon in the fossil fuel, combining with oxygen, in the air, to produce Carbon Dioxide (CO2), the same substance we exhale when we breathe. However, if there is a lack of air for the combustion process or the heating appliance is faulty, Carbon Monoxide

can be produced.

When CO is inhaled into the body it combines with the blood, preventing it from absorbing oxygen. If a person is exposed to CO over a period, it can cause illness and even death. Carbon Monoxide has no smell, taste or colour. This is why it is sometimes called the "Silent Killer".

Carbon Monoxide alarms can be used as a backup to provide a warning to householders in the event of a dangerous build up of CO. Check that the Carbon Monoxide alarm complies with the EN 50291 standard.

Remember that Carbon Monoxide alarms are no substitute for regular inspection and maintenance of appliances, vents, flues and chimneys.

For more details please see www.carbonmonoxide.ie Is there really a benefit to servicing my boiler?

Because of the difference between individual installations, it is difficult to predict what saving servicing will bring for a

particular house.

For example, servicing a kerosene boiler, which has not been serviced for 3 years, will bring about an immediate fuel reduction of some 5%.

How often should I service my boiler?

Most boiler manufacturers recommend an annual service, primarily on the grounds of safety but also to ensure reliability. On efficiency grounds it is well worth servicing oil boilers annually because the soot build-up is such as to significantly increase oil consumption. With gas, while soot build-up is not so much a problem because of its clean burning characteristics, an annual service would still be recommended.

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The service should be carried out by a qualified and experienced service technician / service engineer.

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Fashion tips from Rodney EJ Menswear Munn Sligo of EJ Menswear Sligo

EJ Menswear’s Circle of Gentlemen A

sa leading mensw ear shop it is incumbent on us to always be on the lookout for something new, something different and exciting that will give our customers a special experience.

We believe we have done just

that in bringing to Sligo for the first time a relatively new brand " The circle of Gentlemen", a Dutch label that allows the discerning man make a choice for elegance, style, and luxury.

"The circle of Gentlemen company history officially starts in 2006, when 2 childhood friends launched a new kind of shirt. The two founders, Janjaap van Gent and Micheal van Kommer, contradicted the current trends of their time and

created a shirt collection that featured high collars.

This design was from the heart and opposed the norm in fashion which then featured low collars.

The shirts were designed with technology that allowed the collar to stand up straight even after washing. There was no need to press the collar.

This resulted in an exclusivity within the entire fashion industry.

Later they added contrasting designs in paisley and floral patterns to the inside of collars and cuffs to create a unique shirt collection. So after eight successful years they have evolved into a complete menswear collection which includes knitwear, jackets, suits and overcoats.

The collection that we have brought to EJ menswear concentrates on the shirt range.

It has to be said in our experience of nearly 40 years in the trade that the difference in an expensive shirt as opposed to a less expensive one can clearly be seen, felt and in its longevity.

Sometimes you may think it is hard to justify the price of a

The new spring collections are arriving as we speak with spring /summer colour,, bringing new long awaited life to the space that is EJ’s menswear.

So take a few moments to come in and look around and seek out the Circle of Gentlemen.

You could become a new member of our special circle..

certain item but believe us when we say it’s well worth the expense to experience a real quality shirt!!!

We have a number of plain colours as well as checks with contrast detail on the inside of the collars and on the inset panels and cuffs; all this makes them truly unique.

We also have stylish sports jackets with a 60% linen and cotton mix, and outstanding suits in a Prince of Wales check that would enhance your presence on any special occasion.

Angelscope for February

with Fiona Faery

F

iona Faery is an Irish Psychic Medium who unites people regularly with their loved ones in spirit & also offers psychic guidance with her Faery oracle card readings. She is a regular on Irish radio & has monthly columns in various publications. Fiona is known for her optimistic no-nonsense approach to life. She teaches workshops on mediumship and helps 'baby' mediums build their confidence & step into their power. Her spiritual poetry has found a home on her Facebook page; Fiona Faery where she posts a daily poem. Her poetry is aimed to motivate & empower, as Fiona believes in helping people connect with their soul purpose. She reads internationally through her website www.fionafaery.ie

Aries

Angel of focus: it's time to focus on what you really want in your life. This month brings in a time of renewed motivation.

You may have been feeling apathetic and blocked before now, the good news is that energy is now released and if you are prepared to work hard doors will be opened.

Pay attention to your needs as others will try and pull you in different directions. Do not allow distractions deter you from your overall goals. Lucky Day: February 22nd Lucky colour: Orange

Leo

Angel of spiritual growth: when this angel appears in a spread, it means your facing a challenge, a spiritual lesson. We are never given lessons that are too much for us but it does mean we are being tested in some way or manner. The trick is spotting the lesson. Has someone been winding you up? Are you ready to give a certain someone a few home truths? You are not responsible for another's lesson only your own part. Communication is the key here, staying centred in your power without letting anger or indignation influence your decision. If you feel a certain event or life situation keeps repeating itself it could be because you are not learning the lesson it was designed for. Open your eyes and see what the universe is trying to teach you. Lucky Day: February 21st Lucky colour: Silver

Sagi#arious

Angel of the answered prayer: this is my favourite card in the deck. It means a situation you have asked for helps we will soon be answered. Worrying about things won't make them any easier and the more you worry the more you hold on to the current situation. You must trust the universe. Handing over your problem. No know it will be returned to you answered with a solution and new perspective. If you haven't already asked your angels for help now is the time to do it!

Lucky Day: February 24th Lucky colour: Light green

Taur!s

Angel of trust: it's time to speak your truth, this month Taurus will see you stand your ground. Taurins have a name for their stubbornness but usually this is because if they feel strongly about something they will stand by their principles.

Trust your gut and act on your intuition.

Your moving into a calmer time once you trust yourself you need not look to anyone else for guidance.

Lucky Day: February 14th Lucky colour: Blue

Virgo

Angel of retreat: sometimes we all need a little quiet time Where we can close the door on the world and take time out. This is not always possible due to the frenetic pace of life today. Even if you can grab ten minutes on your own allow your body to relax and to breath deeply, to often we ignore our bodies as we rush about trying to please everybody else. This angel also encourages you to listen to your own truth, you maybe facing a decision that only you alone can make. Step away from the crowd and allow yourself the time to re charge and replenish your energy.

Lucky Day: February 29th Lucky colour: Gold

Capricor$

Angel of power: wow Capricorn this month your really shooting from the hip. When this angel enter your cards she does not mince her words. She speaks her truth with confidence and clarity. This month will see you cut through any nonsense or ambiguity that has been holding you back and getting you down. Your patience will be tested this month, as your energy will be quite high and you may feel other people are on go slow! Remember to temper your words with kindness. A great month for making leaps forward, laying healthy boundaries and communicating your needs clearly and concisely.

Lucky Day: February 16th Lucky colour: Burgundy

Gemini

Angel of listening: this angel is urging you to listen to that nagging voice inside. The one you keep ignoring but deep down you know you showed follow its advice. Your guides and loved ones in spirt are trying to help you in a current life situation. Pay attention to any songs on the radio, overheard conversations etc they may feel as if they are meant for you. This angel also advises you that you may help someone with a Problem instead if trying to jump right in to solve it, your listening skills may be required, allow the person to come to their own natural conclusion. The more you listen to your inner truth the more signs your guides will give you that they are listening to you!

Lucky Day: February 12th Lucky colour: White

Libra

Angel of surrender and release: the urn this angel carries is symbolic of the emotions you are running from. The cracks here are beginning to show and it's time you took action. The greens in this card indicate healing so all will be resolved in time. If we hold on to negative emotions it can create toxic stress in our bodies And we can make ourselves ill. This card encourages you to go for a walk, ground your energy or perhaps call a supportive friend and gain an insight into your current situation. In order for the universe to help you, you must first release the problem to it. Lucky Day: February 17th Lucky colour: Black

Aquarius

Angel of support Angel of Balance: this is also the card for new beginnings, it's time to take stock of your life. You are been asked to redress the balance in your life. If a person or situation is not adding to your life it's time to start subtracting. Some burdens are placed upon us in life but it is our choice if we choose to carry them. Your energy may also feel out of kilter so to many hours spent in the office and not enough restful time or visa versa.

You angel calls on you to redress the balance and watch as your energy levels start to restore!

Lucky Day: February 29th Lucky colour: Purple

Cancer

Angel of children: this card is actually about your inner child. Things have got too serious around you lately. It's time to indulge and let your hAir down. It can be something as simple as collecting seashells on a beach, buying an ice cream, watching a funny movie or sitting down with your own children and joining them in their play. When we listen to our inner child we see the world again through the eyes of a child, with the sense of wonder and excitement.

Allow yourself to smile and ask your inner child what they would like to do? Lucky Day: February 17th Lucky colour: Pink

Scor"io

Angel of divine guidance : this is a beautiful wish card. This will be a great month for you to set your intentions, write a list of your goals and dreams for the year. This angel brings in gifts of hope and positivity. Pay heed to any dreams, thoughts or haunches you wish to follow. Synchronicity is about when Devine guidance comes into your cards. Start to believe in yourself for when your do the universe will send you even more signs as you watch your dreams become reality.

Lucky Day: February 10th Lucky colour: Pink

Pisces

Angel of Freedom: your head full of thoughts and ideas this month Pisces. You may feel there is not enough hours in the day to get everything Accomplished. You may also feel pulled in different directions by various people And situations.

This card urges you to stay grounded. Do not be afraid to use the word no! The key to your freedom lies within you for yourself from negative thoughts and situations. Take time to get outside and walk, make space for yourself this month. Remember, your are your own prisoner and jailer and ultimately you have the keys to set yourself free.

Lucky Day: February 17th Lucky colour: Yellow

Fiona Faery gives private 1-to-1 sittings at The Sligo Park Hotel on the last weekend of every month. She is also available for private consultations or One Question readings on her website www.fionafaery.ie You can contact Fiona to Book a Private Reading @ 0863736143

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

Tony Kenny

A

trip to Tony Kenny's personal website (see bottom of this page) actually tells you little about the contribution this singer has made to the Irish entertainment scene over the past four decades.

Tony's start on the showband scene came in a roundabout way.

He had been with the Mexicans Showband, but left the band as he had not wanted to turn professional at the time. He then went on to the Arran Showband, where he mimed on television to another singer's vocal track (which he revealed in a July, 1968 interview with B.P. Fallon in Spotlight) but stayed for less than a month before as he and

three other members left to form The Vampires. The Vampires had been one of the top groups on the Dublin beat scene, including appearing on the same bill as the Beach Boys.

Tony's fortunes changed forever when he was asked to join a new band, The Sands, being formed by four members of the Miami in 1967. The band was launched and took the country by storm, soon being hailed as one of the nation's top acts. Very much a "pop" singer back then, his first two singles (starting in 1967) were covers of Help Me Rhonda, and Yummy Yummy Yummy. "I was, like, 16, and it was a dance band" says Tony.

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

religious country, and 'Jesus Christ Superstar' had never been performed there. It immediately drew protesters, who presumed that it was disrespectful of Christ, and it wasn't. But the Vatican radio played the entire 'Jesus Christ Superstar' album and the protesters vanished the next day." Tony gave up the grind of the road to star in several musicals in Dublin, including Joseph and His Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. During this time, he also hosted his own TV series on RTE, Ireland's national television station.

In February 1975, Tony was voted Personality of the Year for

In the early 70's Tony borrowed heavily from major American pop acts such as Tony Orlando, releasing covers of songs such as Venus, Dance Dance Dance, Candida and Knock Three Times.

After the release of Knock Three Times in September, 1972, Tony left the Sands to start a solo career, Murty Quinn took over lead vocals and the Sands continued to enjoy great success.

For a while, it was rumoured Tony would be starting a new band.

In fact, in the October 12th issue of Spotlight, it was announced Tony would be taking the role of Jesus in the upcoming production of Jesus Christ Superstar in January, 1973.

Tony with Brendan Grace and Kim Newport in 1982 Page 24 Mature Living February 2014

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...

1974 by Spotlight Magazine. They cited his transition from the world of showband singers to stage performers as one of the main reasons for the honour.

After the run of Joseph, Tony wanted to get back on the road and manager Louis Walsh drafted a Belfast-based pop/rock group, Dirtywork, to be Tony's backing band. Tommy Lundy, Ronan Callaghan, and Brian O'Kane The members relocated to Dublin and Tony was playing the ballrooms once again, but this time under his own steam. In 1979, he released Bluer Than Blue, a song which reflected the more easy going style

Left to right: Tommy O'Rourke (trumpet), Marty Phelan (sax), Dennis Murray (bass), Tony Kenny (vocals), Bobby Kelly (guitar), Fran Byrne (drums) and Murty Quinn (trombone/vocals).

Tony Kenny in 1973 The same blurb mentioned that Tony was recruiting musicians for new band which would also hit the road in January. At the same time, he was still looking for material which might allow him to break into the English scene.

In early 1973, Tony released Heart of Stone, a Coulter-Martin composition produced by Phil Coulter and Mickie Most, sung in a falsetto voice and released under the name "Kenny." The record was a huge success in England and he followed it up with a tour of Ireland which was announced in April. His solo tour kicked off in Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo and he was backed by Tyrone band, The Sounds (we assume the same band which featured Derek Mehaffey).

In the show, Tony performed for an hour and then the Sounds played for the rest of the night. He followed up Heart with Give It To Me Now which also charted.

Despite gaining international

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

acclaim, Tony then abandoned the name Kenny and returned to Ireland. However, the records had been so successful that producer Mickie Most, took a local English band named Chuff and renamed them Kenny to capitalize on Tony's initial success. A feature in the August 2, 1973 issue of Spotlight announced Tony was going back on the road with a new band, while Give It To Me Now was on release.

The lineup of the band was listed as Bobby Kelly (guitar), Fran Byrne (drums), Kevin McAlea (keyboards) and John Drummond (bass). We think this band was short lived. Tony enjoyed his role in musical theatre after being selected, along with Colm Wilkinson, Jim McCann and Luke Kelly of the Dubliners, to star in "Jesus Christ Superstar." The show opened in Dublin's Gaiety Theatre with some protests as Heart of Stone climbed the English charts. Said Tony, "at the time, Ireland was a very

Tony Kenny of the Sands in 1968

he had adopted as a solo performer.

Around this time, he also released Key Largo and Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song. For the next few years, Tony concentrated his efforts on the ballroom scene, but like all bands, he had to face the reality that by the early 1980's, the era was truly coming to an end.

In 1980, the band broke up with Tommy Lundy and Ronan O'Callaghan joining Aonghus McAnally and Stephen Travers in Crackers. Bobby Kelly went on to join up with late Dubliner Ronnie Drew. Barry Patterson would later rejoin Tommy and Ronan in The Crack. As the 80's progressed, Tony mixed continual TV appearances with a growing involvement in the cabaret scene where many of the bigger names of the showband era could still pack them in. He joined the Jury's Irish Cabaret show as the show's headliner and began singing more

Irish traditional numbers.

Regular visits to the United States followed, and like many Irish artists, Tony began to make annual trips to the States, dividing his time between appearances in the two countries. For the past ten years, he has been thrilling audiences with his renditions of Irish classics, as well as songs of inspiration and standards. He tours the United States in the Spring and again in the Fall with his show. On St. Patrick's Day, 1995 Tony was invited perform at the White House for then President Bill Clinton. The following year, he was honored by Jurys Hotel for his 2000th appearance in the Irish cabaret. In 1998, Tony was honored as Ireland's "Entertainer of The Year," a tribute to his enduring talent as one of Ireland's greatest performers.

In 2001, he was invited to sing the National Anthem at a football game between the Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins.

Today, Tony lives in Dublin with his wife, Joan, and their two children. He has continued to release recordings in a variety of genres, always making each song his own. A list below highlights just some of his recordings. When Tony received the Performing Artists Trust Society's award for lifetime achievement in the performing arts, it simply consolidated his place in the history of Irish Entertainment as one of the best loved stars from the Showband era. In early 2008, Tony was a part of the "Do You Come Here Often" showband show and later in the year starred in "Celtic Nights" a cabaret show at the Regency Hotel in Drumcondra, Co. Dublin alongside his daughter, Victoria.

(Our sincere thanks to Paul Welch for helping us compile some of this information about Tony and The Sands and to Brian "Shorty" O'Kane from the Tony Kenny Band)

Page 25 Mature Living February 2014

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

Tony Kenny

A

trip to Tony Kenny's personal website (see bottom of this page) actually tells you little about the contribution this singer has made to the Irish entertainment scene over the past four decades.

Tony's start on the showband scene came in a roundabout way.

He had been with the Mexicans Showband, but left the band as he had not wanted to turn professional at the time. He then went on to the Arran Showband, where he mimed on television to another singer's vocal track (which he revealed in a July, 1968 interview with B.P. Fallon in Spotlight) but stayed for less than a month before as he and

three other members left to form The Vampires. The Vampires had been one of the top groups on the Dublin beat scene, including appearing on the same bill as the Beach Boys.

Tony's fortunes changed forever when he was asked to join a new band, The Sands, being formed by four members of the Miami in 1967. The band was launched and took the country by storm, soon being hailed as one of the nation's top acts. Very much a "pop" singer back then, his first two singles (starting in 1967) were covers of Help Me Rhonda, and Yummy Yummy Yummy. "I was, like, 16, and it was a dance band" says Tony.

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

religious country, and 'Jesus Christ Superstar' had never been performed there. It immediately drew protesters, who presumed that it was disrespectful of Christ, and it wasn't. But the Vatican radio played the entire 'Jesus Christ Superstar' album and the protesters vanished the next day." Tony gave up the grind of the road to star in several musicals in Dublin, including Joseph and His Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. During this time, he also hosted his own TV series on RTE, Ireland's national television station.

In February 1975, Tony was voted Personality of the Year for

In the early 70's Tony borrowed heavily from major American pop acts such as Tony Orlando, releasing covers of songs such as Venus, Dance Dance Dance, Candida and Knock Three Times.

After the release of Knock Three Times in September, 1972, Tony left the Sands to start a solo career, Murty Quinn took over lead vocals and the Sands continued to enjoy great success.

For a while, it was rumoured Tony would be starting a new band.

In fact, in the October 12th issue of Spotlight, it was announced Tony would be taking the role of Jesus in the upcoming production of Jesus Christ Superstar in January, 1973.

Tony with Brendan Grace and Kim Newport in 1982 Page 24 Mature Living February 2014

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...

1974 by Spotlight Magazine. They cited his transition from the world of showband singers to stage performers as one of the main reasons for the honour.

After the run of Joseph, Tony wanted to get back on the road and manager Louis Walsh drafted a Belfast-based pop/rock group, Dirtywork, to be Tony's backing band. Tommy Lundy, Ronan Callaghan, and Brian O'Kane The members relocated to Dublin and Tony was playing the ballrooms once again, but this time under his own steam. In 1979, he released Bluer Than Blue, a song which reflected the more easy going style

Left to right: Tommy O'Rourke (trumpet), Marty Phelan (sax), Dennis Murray (bass), Tony Kenny (vocals), Bobby Kelly (guitar), Fran Byrne (drums) and Murty Quinn (trombone/vocals).

Tony Kenny in 1973 The same blurb mentioned that Tony was recruiting musicians for new band which would also hit the road in January. At the same time, he was still looking for material which might allow him to break into the English scene.

In early 1973, Tony released Heart of Stone, a Coulter-Martin composition produced by Phil Coulter and Mickie Most, sung in a falsetto voice and released under the name "Kenny." The record was a huge success in England and he followed it up with a tour of Ireland which was announced in April. His solo tour kicked off in Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo and he was backed by Tyrone band, The Sounds (we assume the same band which featured Derek Mehaffey).

In the show, Tony performed for an hour and then the Sounds played for the rest of the night. He followed up Heart with Give It To Me Now which also charted.

Despite gaining international

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

acclaim, Tony then abandoned the name Kenny and returned to Ireland. However, the records had been so successful that producer Mickie Most, took a local English band named Chuff and renamed them Kenny to capitalize on Tony's initial success. A feature in the August 2, 1973 issue of Spotlight announced Tony was going back on the road with a new band, while Give It To Me Now was on release.

The lineup of the band was listed as Bobby Kelly (guitar), Fran Byrne (drums), Kevin McAlea (keyboards) and John Drummond (bass). We think this band was short lived. Tony enjoyed his role in musical theatre after being selected, along with Colm Wilkinson, Jim McCann and Luke Kelly of the Dubliners, to star in "Jesus Christ Superstar." The show opened in Dublin's Gaiety Theatre with some protests as Heart of Stone climbed the English charts. Said Tony, "at the time, Ireland was a very

Tony Kenny of the Sands in 1968

he had adopted as a solo performer.

Around this time, he also released Key Largo and Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song. For the next few years, Tony concentrated his efforts on the ballroom scene, but like all bands, he had to face the reality that by the early 1980's, the era was truly coming to an end.

In 1980, the band broke up with Tommy Lundy and Ronan O'Callaghan joining Aonghus McAnally and Stephen Travers in Crackers. Bobby Kelly went on to join up with late Dubliner Ronnie Drew. Barry Patterson would later rejoin Tommy and Ronan in The Crack. As the 80's progressed, Tony mixed continual TV appearances with a growing involvement in the cabaret scene where many of the bigger names of the showband era could still pack them in. He joined the Jury's Irish Cabaret show as the show's headliner and began singing more

Irish traditional numbers.

Regular visits to the United States followed, and like many Irish artists, Tony began to make annual trips to the States, dividing his time between appearances in the two countries. For the past ten years, he has been thrilling audiences with his renditions of Irish classics, as well as songs of inspiration and standards. He tours the United States in the Spring and again in the Fall with his show. On St. Patrick's Day, 1995 Tony was invited perform at the White House for then President Bill Clinton. The following year, he was honored by Jurys Hotel for his 2000th appearance in the Irish cabaret. In 1998, Tony was honored as Ireland's "Entertainer of The Year," a tribute to his enduring talent as one of Ireland's greatest performers.

In 2001, he was invited to sing the National Anthem at a football game between the Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins.

Today, Tony lives in Dublin with his wife, Joan, and their two children. He has continued to release recordings in a variety of genres, always making each song his own. A list below highlights just some of his recordings. When Tony received the Performing Artists Trust Society's award for lifetime achievement in the performing arts, it simply consolidated his place in the history of Irish Entertainment as one of the best loved stars from the Showband era. In early 2008, Tony was a part of the "Do You Come Here Often" showband show and later in the year starred in "Celtic Nights" a cabaret show at the Regency Hotel in Drumcondra, Co. Dublin alongside his daughter, Victoria.

(Our sincere thanks to Paul Welch for helping us compile some of this information about Tony and The Sands and to Brian "Shorty" O'Kane from the Tony Kenny Band)

Page 25 Mature Living February 2014

Travel

Fighting the Single Supplement Travel Alone Without Breaking the Bank

What Is a Single Supplement?

A single supplement is a fee or surcharge that a solo traveler must pay in order to occupy a hotel room or ship state room alone. Single supplements can range from negligible to 100% of the double-occupancy rate.

Why Do Travel Providers Charge Single Supplements?

Tour operators and cruise lines normally base their prices on a per-person, double occupancy model. They do this because most hotel rooms and ship staterooms are built for two people. Solo travelers are often assessed a single supplement to cover the cost of not filling the second space in their room.

Tips for Avoiding the Single Supplement Plan your travel during the off season. Travel providers may be willing to negotiate with you in

order to fill beds and tour spots.

Join a solo travelers’ group.

You can find groups in your area or start your own. These groups often sponsor their own trips or have connections to travel agents and tour operators that cater to solo travelers.

Connecting: Solo Travel Network (CSTN) offers comprehensive resources for solo travelers.

Your one-time registration fee gives you access to CSTN’s Single-Friendly Travel Directory, a collection of solo travel tips and tales and membership in CSTN’s solo travel forums.

Use your tour operator’s roommate matching service to cut travel costs.

Find your own roommate and plan a trip together. Be honest about your preferences, travel style, dietary concerns and if, applicable, snoring. Take an overnight trip first to see how compatible you really are. If your travel adventure is a success, plan a longer trip.

Skip the organized tour and book your own solo itinerary.

Rent a one-bedroom vacation apartment or find a room via Airbnb.com. Read up on safety concerns. Meet your host or landlord and find out about public transportation and local attractions. Then strike out on your own and explore your surroundings. Consider booking a day trip or walking tour if you prefer traveling with a guide.

Page 26 Mature Living February 2014

After you identify the tours and cruises you would like to participate in, consider working with a travel agent to finalize your plans. A good travel agent can often help you negotiate the best price for your solo tour or cruise and find the “fine print” information you need to choose your itinerary. Find a travel agency that specializes in singles’ travel, and ask about trips for people in your age group. Friendship Travel, based in Northern Ireland, offers vacations in Europe, the Caribbean and Africa; some trips are reserved for travelers age 50 or older.

10 Simple Ways to Save Money on Your Cruise C

ruise vacations can take you anywhere in the world, from a small ship adventure in Antarctica to a relaxing sojourn in the Caribbean Sea. For many cruises offer good value as well as enjoyment. As you plan your next cruise, consider these 10 easy ways to save money and still have an excellent time.

Work With a Travel Agent Travel agents are able to offer cruise discounts, special promotions, onboard credits and other travel incentives. When you work with a travel agent, you can access a wealth of cruise info you might not be able to find on your own. In addition, if something goes wrong during your cruise, your travel agent can help you.

Book Early Sailings In some cruise markets you may be able to get a discount if you book one of the first sailings of the season. You might be trading money for cooler temperatures, but a jacket or sweater will solve that problem nicely.

Set a Budget and Follow It Decide how much you want to pay for extras and stick to your plan. Aaron Saunders, who writes the website From the Deck Chair, suggests, “Bring cash to pay your onboard account with. Having cash in hand helps develop a budget – and it helps you avoid going over and just putting purchases onto a credit card.

Don’t be one of those worriedlooking folks queued up a reception on disembarkation day!”

Downsize Your Wardrobe Resist the temptation to dash out and buy new cruisewear. Instead, lay out the cruise-worthy clothes you already own. Create new outfits by mixing and matching pieces and adding accessories.

Consider wearing the same skirt to every formal night; swap out evening tops and sparkly jewelry. Weeding out your wardrobe can also save you money on airline baggage fees.

Drink Free Beverages or Buy a Drinks Package If your cruise line charges for soft drinks and alcoholic beverages, you can save money by drinking water, iced tea, hot tea and coffee. Find out which drinks are free on your cruise ship. Ask about daily beverage packages, which can save you money on soft drinks and, on some cruise lines, alcohol. Cruise expert Jason Leppert, founder of the Popular Cruising website, recommends, “Know exactly what is and is not included in your cruise fare prior to stepping onboard. For instance, consider just how important drinks are to you, because you can save a lot with a prepaid package if they are.”

Access the Internet During Port Calls Onboard Internet access is frustratingly slow and extremely expensive. To save money, prewrite your emails and send them when the ship is in port. To send them, find an Internet café or bring along an air card or mobile hot spot. If your wireless plan does not include international access, call your provider and have an international plan added for the duration of your trip.

Skip Premium Dining Premium dining is enjoyable, but comes at a price – an addition to your cruise bill. Consider skipping the premium dining options on your ship; use the money you save for a memorable meal ashore.

Bypass the Spa Spa treatments and specialised exercise classes

are wonderful, but they cost extra on most cruises. Before you book a massage or facial, find out how much it will cost. Can you save money by postponing that spa experience until you return home? Exercise for free by walking the ship’s decks, swimming, using the onboard fitness center or walking or running during port calls.

Buy Travel Insurance Your biggest cruise expense might be the one you did not predict – a medical emergency. Safeguard your cruise investment by purchasing a travel insurance policy that covers trip cancellation, trip delay, travel medical expenses, medical evacuation and, if possible, cancel for any reason coverage.

Explore on Your Own While some shore excursions should be booked through your cruise line, you can save money by spending a day or two exploring ports on your own.

Hire a local guide, take a taxi to the center of town and wander the streets and squares or rent a bicycle and hit the road. Allow plenty of time to return to your ship; it will sail without you if you do not reboard on time.

Page 27 Mature Living February 2014

Alternative Therapies

Health Benefits of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Today

Psychic medium and spiritual healer To make an appointment or for a brief informal discussion with myself directly. You can reach me on 087-8093783 or email cathysscript@gmail.com or visit my website www.cathysscript.com

7th SON FAITH HEALER AIDAN WRYNNE Mohill, Co Leitrim

www.faithhealer.ie

is now attending ROSCOMMON TOWN & BALLAGHADERREEN / SLIGO & BUNDORAN Aidan is also available at his home every Monday and Thursday at Mohill, County Leitrim Clinic times & venues available at www.faithhealer.ie or contact Aidan at 087 2423405 for an appointment

Aidan has consistent success in the treatment of Back pain, arthritis pain, skin rashes, digestive problems, colic/reflux, migraine, warts/verrucas, asthma, sinus and many more ALL CONSULTATIONS ARE IN PRIVATE

Aidan is happy to discuss in confidence any queries you may have Telephone 071 9631263 / 087 2423405 / Email: aidanwrynne@eircom.net Learn to understand and accept your self

Henry Schwab Healing

Henry helps you to be calm, relaxed and in control. A calm and relaxed person is a more balanced person, balanced on all levels, physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.

The more relaxed you are the better you feel, the better you feel the more you allow your self to relax and find the silence within.

To learn to understand and accept your self is one of the first steps to improve your well being and heal your self.

As Energy Healer Henry combines Reiki and Seichem and his experience in chacra and aura healing, as certified EFT Master Practitioner he offers fast and reliable relief of emotional and mental stress and as clinical Hypnotherapist and Psychotherapist Henry offers a variety of ways to support , guide and heal.

Learn to understand and accept your self. To know your self is all there is to know.

www.henryschwabhealing.com

Evikeens, Boyle, County Roscommon • Tel: 071 96 62114

Are you Suffering from Geopathic Stress?

Have you or your family any of the following.

Unresolved or recurring illness, Tired on waking, Arthritis, Allergies, Fatigue, Insomnia, Poor memory, Irritation or Frequent arguments, Headaches, Depression, Cancer, MS, ME, these are common problems associated with Geopathic Stress. theirishhealer.

Robert Ennis • Tel: 086 8079723 • robertennis@mail.com

www.geopathicstressireland.net

Page 28 Mature Living February 2014

M

any people across the world use complementary and alternative medicine or "CAM" in addition to traditional or conventional treatments and therapies.

In the United States alone, according to the National Centre for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), the most recently available survey data indicates that about 38% of all American adults use one form of CAM or another. In a recent joint study by researchers from UCLA and the University of California, San Diego, 75% of the medical students surveyed reported that "conventional Western medicine would benefit by integrating more CAM therapies and ideas" into traditional medicine.

What is CAM? According to NCCAM and other experts in the field, CAM is defined as a broad range of "medical and health care systems, practices, and products...not generally considered part of conventional medicine."

Medical Doctors and Doctors of Osteopathy are among the health professionals you'll find in traditional medicine.

Physical therapists, psychologists, registered nurses, among others, are also important providers of traditional and conventional medicine.

But, many of these same providers today have enhanced their health care practices, offering a CAM portfolio of viable treatments and therapies.

Expanding the Boundaries of Conventional Medicine Today, the boundaries between CAM and conventional medicine are not absolute, and specific CAM practices have become increasingly accepted by the larger medical community.

Health care professionals also use both conventional and CAM treatments, blurring the boundaries between traditional and CAM. This is especially the case as patients themselves have become increasingly sophisticated health care consumers, so much so that they ask important questions about

their treatment options.

What Makes CAM Attractive Today?

Why is CAM growing increasingly popular? As health care costs soar and conventional treatments fail to produce intended results, more patients and their caregivers today seek kinder and gentler treatments and therapies to manage their diseases and health conditions, including pain. Patients and caregivers are increasingly tired of throwing pills at their medical problems, opting for alternatives that may produce the same health outcomes at a fraction of the cost and without the side effects of costly drugs and treatments.

CAM's Greatest Potential in Health Care Today CAM shows its greatest potential, it seems, when combined with conventional medicine.

For example, CAM allows patients to manage pain without resorting to prescription drugs that may be addictive or whose side effects pose problems for patients.

Or, patients can manage the side effects of muchneeded cancer drugs with CAM treatments and therapies. Mindfulness meditation, yoga, and acupuncture, among others, demonstrate the power of complementary and alternative therapies and treatments that capitalize on the mindbody connection. In the years ahead, it will be exciting to see the results of renewed interest in CAM and efforts to combine traditional and CAM therapies and treatments.

Irish Angel Shop & Holistic Centre Wide Range of Magical & Inspiring Gifts Incense, Books, Angel and Fairy Figurines, Sage Oils, Relaxing Music, Meditation CDs, Angel and Tarot Cards, Crystals and Gemstones and so much more!

Therapies

Your natural health and well being, MADE SIMPLE!

T

his month Im going to discuss the next energy point call the Brow Chakra or the 3rd Eye. This energy point is also known as the 6th Chakra.

THE 3RD EYE CHAKRA This energy point is located in the brow area above your two eyes. It is your centre of intuition, psychic abilities, perception and knowing. It is the area that helps us see direction for the future and relates to our gut instincts. The colour relating to this chakra is Indigo, a deep blue with purple and flashes of white. It is like the colour of the night sky just before it gets bright.

It relates to all that mystery and wonder that we cant see with our physical eyes. A lot of the time it can be about the future, somewhere we cant see with our eyes but a place we have to believe and trust in.

When this area is blocked we find it hard to make decisions. We don't know where we are going and find it hard to Trust any steps or decisions we do make.

When we don't trust that we are going to

be ok or when we don't trust the process or that we are on the right path it causes this energy point to get blocked.

Balancing this chakra can help dissolve any indecision and increase our ability to see clearly, make important decisions and trust we are truly on the right path.

One of the crystals that help to clear and balance this chakra is Labradorite. This is a beautiful crystal which flashes blue and gold under the light. It is a mystical magical gemstone relating to the mystical magical qualities of our 3rd eye.

Your intuition and intellect are balanced with this crystal.

Labradorite also helps banish fear and strengthens your trust in the universe.Wearing Labradorite is not only powerful for your energy and strengthening your aura but, in jewelry, it looks great too.

Labradorite is also a very protective stone so its good to have in your home and it is also known as a barrier against misfortune.

Marleen Duffy, Reiki Master Healer and Teacher, www.angelworld.ie

Clinics now available in Swinford & Sligo

ALTERNATIVE HEALTHCARE THERAPY • Plexus Bio energy therapy • Kinesiology • Hidden mind corrective sounds therapy • Relaxation techniques For more information contact Vincent Murtagh @ 0868677757 Bioenergywest@gmail.com • www.hiddenmind.ie

I can help you find your true self, your gifts, your skills and your talents, so that you make a real difference in your business and/or personal life .... helping you to free yourself from any 'negative baggage' and empowering you to achieve this both easily and effortlessly. Imagine discovering the key that unlocks your full potential. - Carol Passemard

www.breakthroughretreat.com E: carol.passemard@gmail.com

T: 087-1413026

Stéfan de Guylian As seen on Irish and International TV

Travel on a Mystical Journey...

International Clairvoyant, Medium & Psychic Tarotologist Native American Energies Platform Work Shamanism

Available for House Parties & Corporate Events

Contact Stefan: 087-6108105 • stefandeguylian@gmail.com

7th SON FAITH HEALER MICHAEL O’CONNOR

www.handsonfaithhealing.com ALL CONSULTATIONS ARE IN PRIVATE

Michael regularly travels all over Ireland and Northern Ireland helping to heal people from all sorts of ailments. From eczema and asthma to stress and back pain; he has seen it all.

Clinic times & venues available at www.handsonfaithhealing.com or contact Michael on 087 2301359 for an appointment

Colonic Irrigation now in Castlebar, Co.Mayo A kick-start to healthy living; Helping to clear up the skin, symptoms of acne; Management of IBS, bloating and alternating constipation, diarrhoea and impaired digestion; Prevention against degenerative diseases; Encouraging weight loss and long term weight management; Increasing the energy levels, stamina, and reducing the need for long sleep; Helping to manage food, alcohol and cigarette cravings; Helping to manage food intolerances, such as gluten, processed wheat, etc.; Helping against Candida infection; Helping with mood swings; Prevention against Frequent colds and headaches…

Kachina Alternative Health & Beauty Centre, Mayo Leisure Point, Moneen, Castlebar, Co.Mayo ; tel. 085 1928222, petraennis@gmail.com www.facebook.com/colonicirrigationmayo • www.mayocolonicirrigation.com

Page 29 Mature Living February 2014

Health

Youth Boosters Expert advice on living your best life now. Here, looking and feeling your best, from A to Z! minutes are needed daily). People with dark, melanin-rich skin are more likely to have a vitamin D deficiency. The vitamin increases calcium absorption, which is needed for healthy bone tissue.

Scientists now believe vitamin D also plays a role in reducing some cancers, including colorectal, breast and prostate. The Cancer Society suggests older people supplement diets with 1,000 IUs daily.

E | Eye care People over the age of 40 begin to develop presbyopia, a condition where the [eye’s lens] loses part of its elasticity, resulting in a loss of reading vision. There are a number of innovative treatment options that can provide permanent vision correction ranging from laser or radio frequency energy used to reshape the cornea, to lens implants.

Eyeglasses are the reliable standby, and bifocals or multifocals are getting chicer by the minute. It’s crucial to have regular eye examinations, which can detect sight-destroying diseases such as glaucoma and macular degeneration.

A | Aspirin Aspirin, or acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), inhibits blood-platelet clumping, a major factor in both clotting and inflammation.

“People who have had heart attacks or are at risk for them are advised to take a small dose of Aspirin every day — 81 milligrams — to prevent heart attacks and strokes,” says Dr. Akbar Panju, professor of medicine at McMaster University in Hamilton. Because there is a risk of a gastric bleed or bleeding in the brain, the Medical Association advises consulting a physician before starting Aspirin therapy for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. This is particularly important if you are allergic to Aspirin, or have bleeding disorders or suffer from ulcers.

B | Berries & other antioxidants Berries — especially blueberries — are loaded with powerful diseasefighting antioxidants. “Many believe free radicals and oxidative damage (what happens to our cells when free radicals attack) are responsible for aging,” says John Berardi, author of the cookbook Gourmet Nutrition

(www.gourmetnutrition.com).

“This means a high intake of antioxidants from foods like richcoloured fruits and veggies, green tea, high-percentage cocoa chocolate and others can be critical to our anti-aging efforts.”

You should eat five servings of antioxidant-rich foods every day.

C | Connecting Connecting with old friends and close family members, enjoying the benefits of shared memories and common experiences can make you feel more grounded in your history. Developing new friendships is a great way to stretch yourself in new directions.

You will benefit by surrounding yourself with people who love and care about you.

D | The Sunshine Vitamin No wonder Scandinavians love herring. The fatty fish, like salmon mackerel and sardines, is one of the few good dietary sources of vitamin D, other than fortified foods like milk, margarine and cereal. In winter, northerners don’t get enough sunshine on their skin to produce adequate vitamin D (10 to 15

Page 30 Mature Living February 2014

F | Fibre Fibre is important for keeping cholesterol levels in check and keeping you regular. Aim for up to 40 to 50 grams of mixed fibre per day. In order of importance, “your main fibre sources should be vegetables, beans, nuts, fruit and grains, like oatmeal,” Berardi suggests. “If you eat one ounce of mixed nuts, one apple, two cups of kidney beans and two cups of mixed vegetables each day, you’ll be getting about 40 grams of fibre.”

G | Green living Adopting a green lifestyle does wonders. Eat green vegetables rich in antioxidants, enzymes and phytonutrients for good health. At home, replace cleansers containing harmful chemicals with non-toxic green alternatives.

Decorate with plants like spider plants, peace lilies and philodendrons that clean the air by converting carbon dioxide to oxygen.

H | Hearing The Hearing Society notes 46 per cent of people aged 45 to 87 have hearing loss. Having a hearing test around age 55, or if you or family members notice you’re missing conversation. These days, there are elegant solutions for mild to moderate hearing loss — digital

hearing devices that slip behind the ear without plugging the ear canal with a piece of plastic.

Some come in colours like hightech silver or racing green. And people are feeling more comfortable about hearing aids.

I | Imagination Research shows that people who continually challenge themselves intellectually and creatively not only maintain and enhance their cognitive abilities, but they can fight off early signs of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Get out those Sudoku and crossword puzzles. Even better, “the next time you are around a child, take some time to get into their world and rediscover how innately creative we humans are.” Eleanor Roosevelt said it best: “Never be bored and you will never be boring.”

J | Just Do It There is no time like the present to create the life you want. When it comes to creating a vital, full life, a certain amount of dreaming and planning is necessary, but the real results come from taking action. People often know what they want but get stuck on the how. This can be paralyzing, and the best way to overcome it is to just do something. Make a phone call, do some research, tell people what you want to do or sign up for something new. Once you have taken one step, you can re-evaluate and figure out what the next step is.

K | Kick it up a notch Walking and jogging, while good for your heart, do next to nothing when it comes to keeping body fat down and preserving muscle as we age,” Berardi says. “The best workout plan includes a mixture of resistance exercise like weight

training and conditioning routines.” In a study at McMaster University, resistance training reversed the effects of aging in muscles of older adults — even bringing their genetic “fingerprints” dramatically closer to those of younger study participants.

L | Laughter Laughter has been shown to reduce depression, stress and pain, while boosting vitality, creativity and a sense of wellbeing. Make it your new project to get out there and “find the funny.” According to the Canadian Laughter Yoga website, laughteryoga.ca, “the average child laughs between 300 and 400 times per day, [but] by the time we reach adulthood, we are reduced to laughing, on average, only 12 times a day!” And that’s just sad.

M | Metabolism After the age of 40, your metabolism slows down, causing the body to lose muscle mass and gain fat. To boost your metabolism, you’ll need to exercise almost every day (some days with high intensity and others with low intensity), increase your protein intake and supplement your diet with healthy omega-3 fats. Berardi says, “If you’re willing to change a few habits, you can even turn back the clock by building a leaner, healthier body.”

N | Nutrition & nutrients “Most people in their 40s need to be conscious of getting enough lean protein, veggies, and healthy fats, while controlling their carbohydrate intake,” Berardi says. “The pot-belly usually comes from eating too many caloriedense but nutrient-devoid foods,

Travel Health maintain healthy skin. You can obtain all the vitamin D you need while wearing sun protection, as it takes minimal sun exposure of five minutes at midday to synthesize enough vitamin D. You can also get it from dietary sources or supplements. Indoor lighting causes minimal UV damage,It’s the UVA exposure through glass windows, like those in your car, that sneaks up on you.

such as high-fat protein sources, processed foods full of trans fats, processed carbohydrates and drinks sweetened with sugar and/or high-fructose corn syrup.”

O | Omega-3 fatty acids According to medical researchers, the benefits of omega-3 fats can’t be overstated. These healthy fats can reduce inflammation in the body, leading to a lower risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, arthritis and more. To ensure you’re getting enough omega-3, strive to eat fish (especially fatty fish) two or three times a week, along with other sources, such as tofu or flaxseed and walnut oils. People who aren’t fond of fish might want to talk to their doctor about taking a supplement.

P | Passion Oscar Wilde, no stranger to passion, had great insight when he said, An inordinate passion for pleasure is the secret of remaining young. it is easy to forget about our passions as we focus on building a career, raising children and saving for retirement. All of these things can be done much more effectively if we also tap into the limitless source of energy found in cultivating our interests. Whether you are passionate about reading, cooking, music, gardening or chocolate, be sure to put the pursuit of passion right up there on your to-do list.

Declare your car and home smoke-free zones.

R | Red wine Red wine, in moderation, is definitely considered a way to promote health. Rich in resveratrol — a non-flavonoid antioxidant (an anti-aging compound) and beneficial for those with high cholesterol, one S | Sleep Without adequate sleep, we begin to dramatically age faster. It is during sleep that growth hormones, which are important for maintaining vitality and youthful vigour, are produced. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends, and establish a soothing bedtime ritual that helps you fall asleep fast. The good news is that recent research in Britain indicates that older people may actually need less sleep than

younger people — an average of only 7.5 hours versus nine hours a night.

T | Tests and checkups See a health-care professional regularly to have blood-pressure checks and blood tests to measure cholesterol and sugar levels.These results can help you make crucial decisions to prevent certain diseases like heart attacks, stroke and diabetes before they happen.

Once you have the results, act on them.”

U | UVA-UVB “UVA and UVB rays penetrate the skin, producing effects ranging from wrinkles and skin burns to skin cancer melanoma. Year-round protection through the use a of a broad spectrum SPF 15 moisturizer is important to

V | Vitamins With the abundance of processed food in the North American diet, many of us have become deficient in key vitamins and minerals. It’s for this reason that several medical organizations have recommended a daily multivitamin, multimineral supplement. “You can think of this as an insurance policy against vitamin and mineral deficiencies,” Berardi says. If your diet is already excellent, you might not need the supplement. If it’s suspect, add a good vitamin to your plan.

W | Water “By drinking enough water, you can prevent dehydration, which is actually more common than most people think,” Berardi says. It can cause headaches, fatigue, brain fog and an inability to clear toxins from your body. “I suggest drinking at least two litres of water daily — more if you’re active or it’s hot weather.”

X | X Factor In Napoleon Hill’s famous 1937 book Think and Grow Rich, he says, “Our sexual energy and

emotions … are the most powerful of human drives, inspiring us to develop a keenness of imagination, courage, willpower, persistence and creative ability unknown to us at other times … which may be used as powerful creative forces in literature, art or in any other profession or calling.Maybe dust off that old copy of the Kama Sutra, or getting on the Internet for some inspiration. Celebrating your sexuality is one sure way to tap into creativity — on your own and with another.

Y | Yoga & meditation Exercises in yoga, both physical and mental, are designed to unite the body with the mind. Breathing in a slow, deep, rhythmic manner brings a sense of calmness and focus, while physical exercises balance, stretch, tone and strengthen the body. The result: a healthy body and a peaceful mind.

Z | Zinc Zinc is a mineral that’s essential in our diets. Because many of us are thought to be deficient in this micronutrient, it’s important to eat zinc-rich foods like shellfish, red meat, chicken, milk and dairy foods, and, if needed, take a supplement. Without enough zinc in the diet, eyesight, sexual function and soft-tissue health can suffer. But be aware that more study is needed, since too much zinc can affect immune functioning, as well as lower levels of HDL, the “good” cholesterol.

Q | Quit smoking Smoking is a major risk factor for such diseases as stroke, heart attack, lung cancer, bronchitis and chronic lung disease. But research shows the risk of heart disease and stroke drops within a few years of quitting. At any age, butting out cuts the chance of dying from cancer related to smoking.

Page 31 Mature Living February 2014

Mobility

Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability applicant’s needs in the most economic way Income of all household members will now be included in the means test (though Carer’s Allowance should be disregarded) Applicants must prove that they have complied with the Local Property Tax The Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government is preparing revised guidelines for the 3 schemes.

A

housing adaptation grant is available where changes need to be made to a home to make it suitable for a person with a physical, sensory or intellectual disability or mental health difficulty to live in.

The grant can help you to make changes and adaptations to your home, for example, making it wheelchair-accessible, extending it to create more space, adding a ground-floor bathroom or toilet or a stairlift. In some cases, the provision of heating can be included, but only under certain conditions. If you only require minor work, you can apply for the means-tested Mobility Aids Grant Scheme instead.

Changes in 2014 Changes to 3 housing grant schemes were announced in January 2014 and came into effect immediately. The main changes to the Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability are: The maximum income threshold has been reduced to €60,000 (previously €65,000) The percentages of approved costs covered by the grant have been adjusted on a sliding scale (but the maximum grant stays at €30,000, or 95% of approved costs) Extension works will only qualify if no suitable cheaper option is feasible An occupational therapist must confirm that the works are fit for purpose and that they meet the

Rules The grant can be paid to people in: Owner-occupied housing Houses being purchased from a local authority under the Tenant Purchase Scheme Private rented accommodation (the duration of your tenancy can affect grant approval) Accommodation provided under the voluntary housing Capital Assistance and Rental Subsidy schemes Accommodation occupied by persons living in communal residences Your application will be prioritised based on medical need. There are 3 priority levels: Priority 1: A person who is terminally ill or fully/mainly dependent on family or carer; or where alterations/adaptations would facilitate discharge from hospital or alleviate the need for hospitalisation in the future.

Priority 2: A person who is mobile but needs assistance washing, toilet facilities, bedroom etc; or where without the alterations/adaptations the disabled person's ability to function independently would be hindered.

Priority 3: A person who is independent but requires special facilities to improve the quality of life, for example, separate bedroom or living space.

An occupational therapist's (OT) assessment will be required.

The local authority can arrange for an OT assessment, or you can hire an OT privately to carry out an assessment and recoup up to €200 as part of the total grant, up to the maximum you are entitled to.

Means test Your total household income is assessed to find out if you qualify for the grant and the amount payable.

Household income is: Property owner's (or tenant's, in

Page 32 Mature Living February 2014

the case of private renting) and spouse's/partner's annual gross income in the previous tax year Income of any other adults living in the household - aged over 23 years (or over 18 and not in full-time education) The following is not taken into account when calculating your household income: €5,000 for each member of the household aged up to 18 years €5,000 for each member of the household aged between 18 and 23 years and in full-time education or on a SOLAS apprenticeship €5,000 where the person with a disability (in respect of whom the grant is applied for) is being cared by a relative on a fulltime basis Proof of tax compliance If you get a grant of more than €10,000 you must have a valid Tax Clearance Certificate. If you intend to pay more than €650 to a contractor, you must get your contractor to submit their C2/Tax Clearance Certificate to the local authority.

You must also provide evidence that the Local Property Tax on the house has been paid.

Starting the work to adapt your home The grant will not be paid if you start work before the grant is

approved. However, it is expected that the work will start within 6 months of your grant approval.

Rates Priority will be given to people on medical grounds. If your household income is less than €30,000 you may qualify for 95% of the cost of the works (up to the maximum grant amount of €30,000). The proportion of the costs to be grant-aided will be tapered from 95% down to 30%, depending on your income.

If you are unable to get a loan from a bank or building society to pay for the costs not covered by the grant, you may be able to get a local authority home improvement loan. If your house is less than 12 months old the grant will generally not exceed €14,500.

If you are a local authority tenant, the local authority will meet the entire cost of the works.

2013 rates The tables below show the rates of grant that applied up to the end of 2013. Full details of the 2014 rates will be available shortly.

Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability: up to end 2013, for houses over 12 months old.

House and Home

Looking for a solution for a warmer, draught-free home?

S

PLAN4

uperior Insulations Ltd., provides NSAI approved insulation and ventilation solutions to keep your home warm, draught-free and breathable.

The Great News is that Superior Insulations can process the SEAI grant application which means that our clients don’t have to pay the grant price when paying for the job – we do it all for you and you get a lovely cosy home.

What does this mean in monetary terms? Insulating with attic insulation and cavity bead insulation? Pay €500 less.

Insulating with external wall and attic insulation? Pay up to €3850 less. Superior Insulations uses the Ecobead Platinum System – the best cavity wall solution in the market. For homes with no cavity or have the cavity filled, the PowerWall External Wall Insulation system is the superior solution. Superior Insulations also offer a number of insulation solutions for attics, flat roofs and foundations. So many customers are satisfied with their Superior Insulations experience and the testimonials are flowing in. Check out what our customers are saying on our facebook page: Superior Insulations Ltd. Find out more about our products and services at www.superiorinsulations.ie or call or text 086 172 9064 now for a warmer home.

INTERIOR DESIGN

Union St Sligo • sales@plan4.ie • 071-9146299

A Y N O L S JOINERY 'S STAIRCASES, SHOPFRONTS & JOINERY Sloyan's Joinery is a family run business, with six generations of woodworking experience.

We craft stairs and general joinery to the highest quality in hard or soft wood.

STYLISH, MADE-TO-MEASURE SOLUTIONS Based in Union St, we at PLAN 4 are extremely passionate about home textiles, which is evident in all the brands we have ,which continue to amaze and inspire our new and loyal customers. The variety of products and attention to detail is so important and we have brand new colours in all our collections.We are flexible in response to customer demand allowing us to fulfil contract work for property developers , hotels and households. Also we have the capacity to hold considerable stock some of which is reduced to half price.

We supply standard or off-standard, curved, cutstring, waddle, open thread etc. We provide a wide variety of newl posts and baulistrades.

Additional services include hardwood and softwood doors, doorframes, skirting and architrave, traditional handcrafted dressers and general bespoke joinery.

We also provide a skilled fitting service.

Tel: 094-9380295 • Mob: 087-9947842

www.sloyansjoinery.com email: sloyjoy@eircom.net Reisk, Bekan, Claremorris, Co. Mayo.

House & Home

DIRECT ACTION LTD Oliver Connor, Clooney, Belcarra, Castlebar, Co. Mayo

Attic Conversions, Extensions, Renovations and Full Carpentry Service

Please contact us now for a quote for any of your building work requirements.

Email: oliverdirectaction@eircom.net Phone: 094 9032318 • Mobile: 087 2250596 www.directactionltd.com Fully Insured and C2 Registered

COMPOST FOR SALE

North West Windows

PROP. KEVIN BURNS • BELCOO, CO. FERMANAGH

Pure Organic Compost ­ Ideal Soil Enricher

• 25 Litre Sealed Bags €2.50 each or 5 Bags for €10 • Cubic Metre Sacks Compost / Veggie Mix • Bulk Loads Trailer pickup & can deliver

Union Wood Road, Ballisodare Call to Yard or call 087­9756455 Page 34 Mature Living February 2014

Suppliers & Installers of uPVC Windows & Doors White, Wood Grain and Light Oak Finish All Windows Internally Glazed

Tel: 087-2443903 After 6pm Call 048-66386525

House & Home

Loss Assessors

Your Loss Assessor will handle all aspects of the claims process A Loss Assessor represents policyholders when they need to submit an Insurance claim, and our members have experience in dealing with all types of claim, for both private individuals and businesses.

Your Assessor will handle all aspects of the claims process, meeting with the Insurers' representatives, the Loss Adjuster or any other professional appointed by them, preparing your claim and negotiating the best possible settlement for you. They will also handle cases where liability for your claim has been refused by insurers, or where problems have arisen regarding policy liability or delays.

A Loss Assessor will: • Attend on you immediately • Prepare the claim • Negotiate best terms for settlement on your behalf For what type of claim is a Loss Assessor needed?

The services of a Loss Assessor should be sought for all claims following loss by: •Fire • Theft • Flood • Storm • Business Interruption • Oil & Chemical Pollution • Subsidence • Computer Loss • Transit • Natural Disaster • Motor • Third Party Property Claims Why should I need a Loss Assessor? T h e only reason why anyone effects insurance is against the possibility of a claim. So when

a claim does arise you have the right to expect that your Insurance Company will deal with it in a sympathetic manner and in such a way that does not leave you financially disadvantaged. Sadly, the reality is often very different. In dealing with a claim of any size, the Insurance Company will appoint a LOSS ADJUSTER or representative.

He is ENGAGED and PAID by the Insurance Company.

There are always grey areas Claims assessing is not an exact science and there are many instances where there is no absolute answer to the way a claim for a particular item should be settled. Human nature being what it is, the Loss Adjuster is likely to lean towards his principals, the Insurance Company.

LOSS ASSESSORS charge a fee agreed with you in advance, for the work undertaken ON YOUR BEHALF When should I appoint my Loss Assessor?

The way a claim is prepared and presented if every bit as important as the way in which it is negotiated and settled.

You therefore need to appoint a LOSS ASSESSOR as soon as you realise that you have a claim. DON’T WAIT until things start to go wrong – when the Insurance Company’s LOSS ADJUSTER tells you that you are not entitled to claim for something which you were convinced forms part of your claim – or when the LOSS ADJUSTER tries to reduce the amount you are claiming. Often quoting “small print” in the policy

Put your savings to work with a home improvement loan.

For structural improvements.

Including Extensions, Renovations, External Walls, Tarmac Insulation, Energy and Heating upgrades.

Loans are subject to approval • Terms and Conditions Apply • 8.2 % apr.

Westport Credit Union is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

• Have you been Burgled, items stolen or damaged?

• Has your home been damaged by Burst Pipes or Leaks?

• Have you had Storm Damage • Or has your chimney been damaged by high winds?

Contact us Today for a no obligation consultation!

Bart Grimes - Mayo Office Cornmarket, Ballinrobe, Co. Mayo Mobile: 087-2830434 Office: 094 954 1561 F: 094 954 1723

bartsnr@auray.ie

Clare Flanagan - Clare Office Doolin, Co. Clare Tel: 087 679 7009 Office: 065 7074 906 F: 065 7074 173 clare@auray.ie

Visit us online www.auray.ie

Quay Rd, Killala, Co. Mayo

We manufacture & Sell Directly To The Public a range of 3 Piece Suites, Couches, Queen Anne Chairs, Tub Chairs, Headboards, etc - Handmade to suit the customer’s needs We carry out all kinds of recovery work. Suites, Chairs, Recliners, Footstools, etc. We sell all upholstery requirements, fabric, foam, webbing, etc.

Call us NOW at 096 32472, email: killalaupholstery@gmail.com Open Mon-Fri 9am to 6pm Sat 9am to 12 noon

House and Home

Irish Made Smokeless Fuels from

TIMONEY TILES

TILES • BATHROOMS • WOODEN FLOORS • STOVES & FIREPLACES

Suppliers of High Quality Bathrooms We are one of the leading suppliers of luxury bathrooms in Fermanagh with comprehensive ranges that include Heritage, Villeroy and Boch, Twyford, Image Merlyn, Mira. Our 10,000ft square showroom features the very latest bathrooms in fully tiled settings. We have over 50 beautiful displays which represent the very best bathroom brands, in reallife sized rooms, to show off the amazing products we offer. We have working whirlpool baths for you to see, as well as a dedicated area for showers and shower enclosures, including bespoke.

Stoves and Fireplaces On display in-store is a fantastic range of solid, semi-solid, engineered and laminate floors offered in an array of finishes at a price to suit all budgets and tastes.

Also in-store is our stove village comprising our ranges of wood and multi-fuel stoves and fireplaces. Stoves are offered from leading manufacturers to include Mulberry, Pevex, Gallery, to name just a few.

62 Mill Street, Enniskillen, Co.Fermanagh, BT74 4EJ Tel: 0044 (0) 2866-381053

www.timoneytilesandbathrooms.co.uk

Page 36 Mature Living February 2014

Nursing Homes

The Journey to Nursing Home Care

Y

our stay in a Nursing Home may be for a short time, eg following hospital admission or in the absence of a caregiver at home, or it may be that you need continuing care for the future. Whether considering short or long term care, the transition will be smoother if you have satisfied yourself that the nursing home you are

going to, is one that will meet your care needs and facilitate your lifestyle.

Initial contact with a nursing home can be made by telephone, or you can drop in at a time that suits you. Ask lots of questions, write them down before you visit, meet with the director of nursing, who will answer any questions you have.

Guide to choosing a private nursing home

I

f you are looking for nursing home care for yourself or a loved one, you will naturally wish to have access to as much information as possible about your options, or about a nursing home you may be considering. Up to 30th June 2009, The HSE was responsible for inspecting private nursing homes across Ireland and posted reports of its inspections on this site.

From 1st July 2009, all designated centres, including Health Service Executive (HSE) run centres, private and voluntary centres are subject to independent inspection by Health Information and Quality Authority.

The guide is designed to help you make informed decisions about nursing home care, whether you are planning ahead or need to make an unexpected decision.

Choosing a nursing home can be very stressful for you and your loved ones. It is helpful to plan ahead, consider all your long term options, and make good financial plans early. Planning ahead gives you and your family more control.

Before you get started You may have other long term care options like community services or home care depending on your resources and needs. Before choosing a nursing home, see if one of these other choices might be better for you or if they might help after a short nursing home stay.

If you are helping another person Helping another person choose a nursing home or make other long term care choices can be difficult. Your support is important and can help your loved one adjust to getting a new service or living in a new setting like a nursing home. Be sure to include the person you are helping when making decisions whenever possible. Always make decisions with their needs and preferences in mind.

Step One: Check the HSE/HIQA website

for a list of nursing homes in your areas.

Ask people you trust if they have had personal experience with nursing homes, they may be able to recommend one for you.

Step Two: Compare the quality of nursing homes you are considering. Look at the inspection reports. These reports should not be used in isolation as they reflect a moment in time but they can assist you in making an informed decision.

Step 3: Visit the nursing homes you are interested in or have someone visit for you. A visit gives you the chance to see the residents, staff and nursing home setting. Before you visit, consider what is important to you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, ask the staff to explain anything you see and hear that you don’t understand, ask who to call if you have further questions. Visit the nursing home a second time on a different day and at a different time then when you first visited the nursing home. Try to visit during late morning or midday. This allows you to see the residents when they are in their daily routine, mealtimes and what activities are taking place. You may need to make an appointment in advance prior to your initial visit.

Making arrangements to enter a nursing home After you choose a nursing home, you will need to make the arrangements for admission. When you contact the nursing home, it’s helpful to have the following information ready.

• Information on medical history • Information on current health status • A list of current medicines • A list of all your health care providers • A list of family members to call in case of emergency • Payment information for nursing home office staff The nursing home should have assessed/met the client to ensure they can meet their needs.

Your choice of nursing home should be, one in which you feel at home. Ask if there are any restrictions are on visiting. A home within your own area may best suit your visitors. Maintaining your social contacts and continuing with your interests and hobbies is very important, ask in what way your lifestyle can be facilitated within the nursing home.

A comprehensive assessment is commenced prior to admission to long term care. This is an opportunity for you and your family to meet with the director of nursing and satisfy yourself that care which meets your needs, is being planned for you with your input, knowledge and consent. This meeting usually takes place wherever you are, in your home or in hospital.

Think about what you would like to bring with you from home, your photos, cushions, armchair, bed or even the goldfish, bring anything which matters to you as this makes your space feel like home.

On your admission, you will have a named nurse and key workers assigned to you. They will get to know you, agree your care plan with you and share that important information with other members of the team to ensure that you get a quality and consistent standard of care every day.

If you feel that you or someone you care for may need nursing home care, take the first step on the journey and approach the nursing home of your choice. A conversation with the director of nursing there should put you on the path to making this life changing decision, one which improves the quality of life for so many, who live in a nursing home.

See our advert over the Page for more details.

Abbeytown, Boyle, Co. Roscommon Tel: 071- 9662561 • www.drumderrig.com

Page 37 Mature Living February 2014

Nursing Homes

Sonnagh, Charlestown, Co. Mayo • Tel: 094-9254269 • kathsmyth@eircom.net

Operating on a home !om home basis where Residents feel at home in an oldy worldy environment.

All Rooms Ensuite Respite Long and Shor" Ter#.

Catering for Retired, Convelescent and Geriat$ic Residents.

Come and see St. Anne’s for yourself, call us today to ar$ange a viewing you will not be disappointed!

Empathy, Warmth, Empowerment, Energy.

Registered Approved by

Member

www.sonas.ie

Sonas Nursing Homes Cloverhill Roscommon, Ard na Greine Enniscrone, Sonas Athlone & Melview House Clonmel.

Nursing Homes: For those unable to live on their own, Sonas Nursing Homes provide a home environment with individualised, person-centred care, according to the resident’s needs.

Independent Living: Sonas provides independent living facilities for those who are able for the day-to-day chores of living alone but want the reassurance of nursing care on site and the convenience of having prepared meals.

Our Team: At Sonas we believe that our staff are the most important element of our service.

We have spared no expense or effort in ensuring that our facilities are built to the highest specification but it is the friendly smiles of our staff, their genuine interest in people and their expertise that make a Sonas nursing home a pleasant, safe and comfortable place to live.

Leading dementia care.

As professionals in care of the elderly we understand the importance of environment for those with dementia. Sonas has developed living environments, or households, which reflect the home environments our residents have left behind. Individual kitchens and domestic fumishings reduce any institutional atmosphere leading to greater comfort and less anxiety. Our personnel have completed specialised courses with Dementia Training Ireland to enable them to optimize the effectiveness of our dementia-friendly environments.

Sonas Nursing Home Ard na Greine, Enniscrone, Co. Sligo • P: 096-37840 • E: ard@sonas.ie Sonas Nursing Home Cloverhiill Co. Roscommon • P: 090-6628882 • E. cloverhill@sonas.ie

Petcare

When your dog can’t go with You Care and boarding alternatives.

I

f chartering a private plane so your dog can see the world with you seems reasonable, you’re either very wealthy or really love traveling with your pup. Since most of us don’t have a Learjet at our disposal, eventually there will come a time when we’ll have to leave our dogs behind while we embark on extended travel (a week or longer).

The best way to ensure that your time away is fun and stressfree for both you and your dog is to have a good game plan in advance of departure. Though dogs have very different personalities, maintaining a sense of normalcy and routine during owner absences is beneficial for every type of dog.

Also, a confident, happy dog will have a much easier time with an extended absence than one who has had little socialization—one of the many reasons training and socialization are beneficial for dogs and humans alike. A visit to a familiar dog park will reconnect your dog with well-known scents, activities and other canine friends.

Mood stresses the importance of maintaining a routine with your dog. Anyone who has a dog likely wonders how the dog knows when it’s time for dinner, for a walk, to go to sleep. It’s because your dog has a routine.

Keeping this sense of normalcy is a good way to help your dog stay on schedule and feel a bit more comfortable in your absence. For some dogs, especially those with

separation anxiety, the preparation and the leaving ritual themselves can induce anxiety, so varying your [pre-trip] routine can be helpful. The best thing you can do to prepare your dog is to set up the logistics ahead of time so you aren’t rushing around at the last minute, and staying relaxed yourself.

When it comes to care, the best-case scenario is one in which the dog remains at home with a trusted friend or family member; second-best is a pet sitter. As Mood notes, “Being able to be in the home environment is the best situation. That being said, a dog who is distressed or shows anxiety while you are gone (tearing things up, urinating or defecating indoors), will probably do better staying with a friend or family member who is home more often, or even at a doggie day care, where [he or she] will be around other dogs and people all the time.”

Clearly, having an established network of trusted, responsible pet sitters can make your absence much easier on your dog. Familiar human and canine friends can greatly reduce a dog’s anxiety, especially if the dogs already share a bond. For this reason alone, it’s worth volunteering to watch your friends’ dogs to help establish your own dog’s sense of comfort with being part of another “pack” for a time.

Whether your dog is staying at your home or a friend’s house, making a list of detailed instructions is very important. “If a pet sitter is coming to your house, make a list of phone

numbers— the vet, poison control, closest friend or family member (think about the list you would create for a babysitter). Also, write out instructions for feeding, exercise, special requests/requirements, or any reminders that might be important (don’t let the dog meet other dogs, the location of the closest dog park and so forth),” suggests Mood.

Dogs have incredible scent memory, so it also can be helpful to provide a shirt, blanket or other article of clothing with your scent. Some people even leave a “fresh” used shirt to be introduced at some point through their time away.

Boarding at a kennel is another option, and for some dogs, the chance to play with other pups all day is as fun as it gets.

However, it’s best to give your dog a few nights at a trusted kennel before your trip so the change isn’t as abrupt.

Whether your choice is pet sitter or kennel, do your due diligence before making a decision. Ask candidates “tons” of questions, the most important relate to discipline and training policies. “If they are going to be walking your dog, how do they practice looseleash walking?

What happens if two dogs get in a scuffle? Can you handle my dog with anxiety/dog-dog aggression/door dashing? Other questions might include, can you administer my dog’s medicine or accommodate a special diet? For a doggie day care (or kennel), always tour the entire facility

— they shouldn’t have anything to hide.” A trusted friend, family member, pet sitter or kennel staff member, or other friendly face will keep your dog in good spirits, as will mingling with canine friends. While your dog will, notice your absence, extra attention or longer walks can help. And once you’ve found reliable and trustworthy pet sitters or other services, stick with them. Finally, establish a budget in advance, not only to pay for care but also to provide cash on hand for emergencies or if supplies run low (though you’ll be stocking up on food, treats and pick-up bags before you leave).

While parting with your dog can be such sweet sorrow, having a system to keep him or her happy and healthy in your absence will make your travels much easier.

Yes, it’s quite normal to miss your dog, but don’t let that overwhelm you. Plan ahead and look forward to a joyous reunion upon your return—oh, and be sure to bring home treats!

Dont take your furry friend to any kennel when you're away, Leave them with us at Petele Kennels - and leave their care to us!

Ireland’tse F a vo u r i s h o p et P e n i l n O Free Nationwide Delivery Big Brands - Small Prices!

Page 40 Mature Living February 2014

Petele Boarding Kennels

Tel: 071-9196756 Email: petelekennels@gmail.com Our mission is to provide reliable and quality in-home care for your pet when you're on holiday or at work. We’re not only pet lovers, but we're pet owners, too. Your pet will be treated as if it were our own.

We are fully certified and completely invested in your pets happiness.

Luxury Cattery now open Flughany, Doocastle, Co.Mayo - Just 15 minutes from Knock Airport, off the Charlestown to Ballymote Road.

Check out our website www.petelekennels.com

Petcare

Brenken Pet Products providers of Hollybarn Dog & Puppy Training high quality PVC dog kennels and • Toilet Training / Lead Work • Sit / Lie / Stay / Barking galvanised dog runs • Running Away / Recall • Jumping on People & Furniture • Chasing Everything • Chewing / Digging / Play Biting • Separation Anxiety • Noise Phobia / Socialisation • Aggressive Behaviour • In House Boarding / Kennels • One to One / Residential

087 782 3957 • www.hollybarndogtraining.com

B

renken cater for all your dog needs.

From galvanised dog runs, PVC dog kennels and an array of products for your four legged friend.

Their unique PVC kennels are designed to give your pet a comfortable, secure and longlasting warm home.

Externally the kennels are PVC cladded & built on the same theory as a timber framed house. Unlike conventional timber dog houses which have a much shorter lifespan, the unique pvc dog houses will last your pet much longer.

They are fully weather resistant, maintenance free and are easily cleaned.

The kennels are WBP plylined internally for the most comfort & warmth for your pet during the winter months. Included are rebated vented doors and a raised floor for extra air flow on every single kennel. This keeps your pet cool for those long summer days.

They have competitive rates and deliver nationwide by courier. The kennels arrive to your door fully assembled and ready for use. They provide various sizes and a range of

colours. They range in size from the small one which is 24inch x 18 inch to the large one which is 36inch x 36inch They also stock heavy duty galvanised dog runs which come in a range of sizes.

These 8cm bar panels are very easily assembled to form a strong enclosure.

Void panels are available to use in conjunction with our dog kennels. This will give your pet increased space as the kennel is placed on the outside. Extra panels can be purchased at a later stage to increase the size of the dog run.

Brenken are leading stockist of Petsafe radio fence , Savic dog travel / training cages ,Flexi & Patento leads & collars are some of the leading brands which they stock.

Visit their website, www.brenken.ie and you will find comfortable & durable dog beds, plenty of squeaky toys to keep your pet happy. feeding and training products.

Brenken offers quick & reliable delivery service nationwide, most of our products will be delivered within 48hours. For more information call Brendan on 087 1739441

Purr‐fections

Cattery

Modern, family run, purpose built cattery opened in October 2013 Ideally positioned near Cavan, Longford, Sligo and Roscommon. We are a purpose built cattery run by a qualified veterinary nurse and her family. We are the cat lovers for the cat lovers and we pledge to offer your cat the home from home experience. We ensure your cat is fed and treated as he or she is at home.

Contact Donna or Declan Duffy on 086‐1525366 Carrigallen Co Leitrim • www.purrfectionscattery.com

Brenken Delivering Nationwide within 48 Hours

Brenken provides high quality PVC dog kennels and galvanised dog runs Unique PVC kennels are designed to give your pet a comfortable, secure and longlasting warm home.

Heavy duty galvanised dog runs available in a variety of sizes

Tel: 087 1739441 • www.brenken.ie Page 41 Mature Living February 2014

Food and Drink

Delicious Seafood Supper!

1 onion, peeled and finely diced 3 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed 1 sprig of fresh thyme 1 bay leaf 400g of risotto rice (Carnaroli) 100ml of white wine 1 pinch of saffron 100g of cooked prawn, peeled 100g of mussels, cooked and shelled 4 scallops, sliced 75g of peas, cooked 1 tbsp of chopped coriander 1 tbsp of finely chopped tarragon 1 tbsp of chopped chervil 1 tbsp of chopped dill 50g of grated Parmesan salt & freshly ground black pepper / 50g of butter Method 1. Heat the fish stock in a pan and keep warm 2. 2. In a heavy saucepan, add the olive oil, onion, garlic, thyme and bay leaf. Cook on a low heat for about 10 minutes, without

With Luca Sifredi at the Limoncello Sardinian Restaurant, Wine Street, Sligo

L

imoncello Sardinian Restaurant in Sligo is an atmospheric dining venue that provides more than just a place to eat. All our Food is prepared using essentially Olive Oil & Italian Flour.

Our Sardinian Cuisine is strictly linked to the seasons and secrets

that lie in the quality and the simplicity of its dishes.

Everything is cooked and prepared fresh by order. Our Wines list is specialized in an extensive Italian wines and an exclusive Sardinian Wines list.

Now Taking booking for Valentine's Weekend.You can contact us at 0719110088 At Limoncello Restaurant, Our Chef Toni, uses scallops, prawns and mussels to make up a

seafood risotto but you can use whatever seafood is available and you like. Serve this risotto alongside some toasted ciabatta or a small avocado salad for a delicious seafood supper 45min preparation serves for 4 people Ingredients 900ml of Knorr Fish stock 2 tbsp of olive oil

The Ultimate French Onion Soup Y

ou know that effortless, elusive “Je ne sais quoi” that follows Parisians about? Ever wish you could capture a wisp of it? A beret isn’t the answer. No, what you need is the key to all of our fantasies français: the ultimate French Onion Soup.

Spoon after spoon of rich beef broth, sweet caramelized onions, gooey Gruyère and crusty bread, and you too will ditch your chic chapeau in favor of this magnifique bistro classic.

Ingredients 3 tbsp butter 3 tbsp olive oil 8 sweet onions, peeled and thinly sliced in half moons 2 tsp kosher salt 2 tsp chopped fresh thyme 2 dried bay leaves 1 tbsp flour 1 tsp brown sugar ½ cup white wine ½ cup red wine ¼ cup brandy 8 cups beef broth 1 small baguette, sliced Gruyere cheese, sliced

Directions 1) In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and salt and cook stirring frequently, until the onions are a deep golden brown, about 35-40 minutes.

Add the thyme, bay leaves, flour and brown sugar. Stir well to combine. Add white wine, red wine and brandy, cooking for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add beef broth and bring to a boil. Simmer soup for 1 hour and 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove bay leaves.

2) To assemble the soup, just before serving, preheat broiler to high. Place onion soup bowls on a baking sheet and ladle soup into bowls.

Top with a slice of bread and then top the bread with Gruyere cheese. Melt under the broiler for a minute until the cheese is nicely browned. Serves 6-8

colouring the onion, until soft and translucent 3. 3. Add the rice to the pan and with a wooden spoon, mix the rice into the onions. Once you hear the rice crack, add the white wine followed by a ladleful of stock and then the saffron and begin to stir. Make sure the rice has fully absorbed the stock before you add another ladle. Continue adding stock until the rice is tender and cooked through 4. 4. Beat the butter into the rice and add the prawns, mussels and lastly - the sliced scallops, peas and herbs. Stir with care, as you want to just warm the seafood and gently cook the scallops 5. 5.

Finish with some grated Parmesan and season with salt and pepper. Divide the risotto between plates or bowls and serve immediately 6. Enjoy!

Breakaways

Active Breaks at The Villa Rose Boutique Hotel and V-Spa

T

50+ Active Breaks March 17th-20th /April 13th -16th 4 Nights €199pps, 3 Nights €159pps

Break Includes: B&B + Dinner each Night, Tea/Coffee & Scones on Arrival, 1 Hour Spa Thermal Session.

Activities & Entertainment Including: Social Dance, Guided Nature Walk, Guided History Walk, Quiz & Prizes, Bingo, Music in the Forge Bar

Anytime Golden Getaways Available Sunday – Thursday Includes 3 Nights B&B + 2 Dinners €139pps

4 Star, Family Owned, Town Centre hotel

Reservations: 074-9132266 reservations@villarose.net • www.villarose.ie

he Villa Rose Hotel is a 4 Star, family owned, boutique spa hotel located in the town centre of Ballybofey, Co Donegal.

Situated between Letterkenny & Donegal Town it is an ideal base from which to experience all that Donegal and the North West of Ireland have to offer.

The hotel comprises 57 beautifully appointed bedrooms, contemporary in design with the emphasis on absolute comfort acting as a home away from home.

All bedrooms are ensuite and include safe, tea/coffee making facilities, complimentary bottled water, plasma screen tv & complimentary wi-fi.

Avail of free parking and

complimentary newspapers each morning. Facilities include Fara’s Restaurant & Wine Bar for a delicious meal in modern and elegant surroundings, The Forge Bar with live light entertainment, The ‘Wee’ Bar serving lunch, bar food & specialty coffees overlooking Ballybofey’s bustling main street & The V Spa for pampering & relaxation.

The Villa Rose offer a wide range of holidays for the 50+ market including Ballroom & Sequence Dancing and 50+ Active Breaks including a range of optional entertainment & activities to partake in during your stay.

Whether you are looking for a

relaxing break away or for an exciting trip with the possibility of meeting like minded friends then the Villa Rose is the destination for you.

Contact Leona McGee – dedicated 50+ Events Marketing Co-ordinator at the Villa Rose for full details

Services Directory

WESTERN WINDOWS & GLASS

Aluminimum, PVC-U Windows, Doors & Conservatories Add Extra Room to your home!

Suitable for most bungalows

• A cost-effective way to add an extra room to your house.

• Doors can be positioned on any of the three sides of the conservatory for maximum choice and flexibiliy.

• Two or four opening windows to ensure good air circulation and effective temperature control • Lead-free A1 rated windows

Abbey Business Park, Ardnaree, Ballina, Co. Mayo Tel: 096-25514 / 096-75521 / 086-8171442 • tahennigan@eircom.net

Family Run Camper Van Hire Discover the magic that is the West of Ireland

WANTED ALL TYPES OF TRACTORS & TRACK MACHINES

Tractors 2/4WD in any condition for resale-export & breaking Wanted Massey Ferguson's; MF165-168-175-178-185-188565-575-590-675-690-699-265-275-290.

Fords-Fiats-John Deere-Zetor-Belarus-Universal Ect.

Be it a short 3 day stay by the shores Of Achill Island or a two week exploration of swimming with dolphins in Kerry to climbing Irelands Holiest Mountain, Croagh Patrick. From Donegal to Dingle, Connemara to Cork or Galway to Giants Causeway, Ireland West Motorhomes allows you have the holiday you crave and deserve.

Our easy to drive, self contained Motorhomes are available from 4-7 berths, so whatever size your party, our motorhomes will provide you with exceptional comfort and value for money.

T: 094-9060300 • M: 087-6385757 E: info@iwmotorhomes.ie

www.iwmotorhomes.ie

Expert representatives based all over Ireland operating from our Cork & Dublin offices.

Client assessment and joint surveys with occupational therapists.

• ACCESS LIFTS • STAIR LIFTS • BATHING SOLUTIONS • MOVING & HANDLING Acorn Business Campus, Mahon Ind. Park, Blackrock, Cork

Tel: 021-4614221 Mob: 086 - 8343533

Visit us online @ www.abbeymobility.com

All tractors considered in any condition, non runners also. Wanted all Plant Machinery; Hitachi-Komatsu-Jcb/ JS-Kobelco-Sumitomo-Cat-Mitsubishi Ect. Engines /gearboxs ,also wanted in any condition.

Tel: 087-680-6540 e: buyplant10@gmail.com

Services Directory

PADRAIG RUANE Heating & Plumbing

www.westlok.ie westlokireland@gmail.com

HOW SECURE IS YOUR HOME? THE NORTHWEST’S LEADING BURGLARY PREVENTION EXPERTS

• Oil & Solid Fuel Central Heating • Domestic Solar Systems • Hot Water Heating • Ground Source Heat Pumps • Air to Water Heat Pumps • Installation of Wood Pellet stoves

• BURGLARY PREVENTION • SAFES • SAFE ROOMS • LOCK UPGRADES • LIGHTING • OIL TANK SECURITY • FREE HOME SECURITY INSPECTION

FREE

Tel: 071 9130497 Mob: 087 2654493

BOOK NOW TO ARRANGE YOUR , NO OBLIGATION, HOME SECURITY INSPECTION

TEL: 096-72652 BOB: 087-9852827 • GERRY: 086-8581961

MARTIN DOWD GARDEN SERVICES

www.ap-motors.eu

Unit 2, Ardnaree, Ballina, Co. Mayo

Electric Bikes Sales & Service

BUY ONLINE FROM OUR LARGE SELECTION

www.electricescapes.ie Tel: 087-745-1155

• • • • • •

Servicing 5% Discoun Panel Beating t Tracking • Parts Light Setting NCT Preperation Valeting • Recovery with th is Advert

Ariel Dym 086-376-1953 • 086-8978395

• Patio Slabs • Landscaping • Steel and Timber Garden Sheds • Garden Fencing • General Garden Maintenance

Call Martin on 086-0316833

Keane’s Garage TEL: 086-0563130 TX Upholstery Services, based in Carrick on Shannon, and Donegal ‘covers’ anything.

Domes!c, Industrial and commercial – you name it, we will cover it Our service include: • Suites of furniture • Repairs • Replacement of foam in cushions • Boost sea!ng • Headboards • Beanbags • Boats Don’t delay; call 0749736719, for Sligo Donegal area’s…and 071-9622700, mobile 086-8361070 for Carrick on Shannon

MERCEDES SERVICE • Full dealer service facilities • Full Mechanical Repairs • Star Diagnostic Service

Get the same service as your main dealer at a fraction of the price!

Quality, Affordable Homecare In Your Community Providing dedicated homecare across the West, Northwest and Midlands since 1996

• Home Help • Light Housekeeping • Care of the Elderly • Overnight Care • Meal Prepara"on• Personal Care • Companionship • Respite Care Why se#le for a franchise when you can choose a local, proven homecare service?

Choose RHS Home Services - World Class, Quality Homecare in Your Community For Your Free No Obliga"on Consulta"on Call Us Now:

Urlaur, Killkelly, Co, Mayo Tel: 094-9649006 - www.keanesgarage.com

Roscommon: 09066-25988 Galway: 091 388785 Mayo: 09493 82156 www.rhshomeservices.ie

Services Directory

North West Counselling SLIGO OIL SERVICES Counselling for people with addictions

085-1459-300

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 • Supervisor available for counsellors Afternoon, evening and weekend appointments available

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

Did you know that even having 3mm deposit of soot on the inside of your boiler will increase oil (ref: OFTEC) costs by over 8%

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

Sligo Oil Services Professional OFTEC Boiler Service Can Save You Money

Helping people to recover

STONE WARNING!!! GIBLIN ...everlasting Upto 80% of Heat Generated by an Open Fire and almost 20% of Heat from your Central Hea!ng System escapes up an open Chimney!

Prevent this wastage!

TERRYS STOVES SLIGO Buying a Stove???

Talk to Terry first • Free Survey Available • Solid Fuel Stoves • Gas Fires

PHONE: 087-2066910 / 071-9197925

www.terrysstoves.com terrysstoves@gmail.com

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.

What does treatment envolve?

We offer a 4 week 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.

Gulladoo Centre, Cornafest, Co. Leitrim

Tel: 049-4339605 Mob: 086-8638842 Email: info@gulladoocentre.com

Did you know that your boiler could be costing you extra money?

Choosing a memorial for a loved one is a very personal thing.

Quality • Experience • Service

GRANITE COUNTERS & FIREPLACES IN MARBLE, GRANITE ALSO AVAILABLE, CALL US TODAY FOR DETAILS

We will optomise your Boiler for Maximum efficiency with reduced fuel costs, Carry out a full Carbon Monoxide audit to ensure Family Safety is a priority.

A New Oil Nozzle fitted and we supply you with a Full detailed printout (from the latest Anton Flue Gas Analysis equipment)

Having Difficulties paying your Bills?

Problematic Issues explored

TOTALLY CONFIDENTIAL SERVICE AVAILABLE!

Providing experienced help, writing letters and making phone calls on your behalf.

Providing support and enabling you to make positive change. No nonsense approach. Informed legal advice and your specific position explained. Excellent track record of successfully helping towards realistic solutions.

Situation dependent Modest Fee.

Contact 087 2058768 or 098 50872.

Church Street, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo Phone: James 087 9061833 • Brian 086 1957788

www.giblinstone.com

CHIMNEY REPAIRS IRELAND

• 20 year guarantee • 25 years experience • Relining and rebuilding • Smoke and soot problems solved • Free estimates • Free assistance with insurance claims

Tel : Office 1800 283067 / 087-7997671

www.chimneyrepairs.ie

G. Kilpatrick

Windows & Conservatories • uPVC Windows & Doors • PVC Fascia & Guttering • Free Quotation No Obligation • Quality and Reliability Guaranteed

INSTALLERS OF BIRDIE COMB NO MORE NESTS IN YOUR ROOF

T: 074-9142557 M: 087-677959 WE REPAIR: HINGES, DOOR LOCKS, LETTERBOXES, PVC GUTTERING

Feature Article Services Directory

Irish Shamrock Trees

Whitethorn & Beech Hedging Trees and more

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

We pride ourselves on our truly friendly and efficient service.

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

WHEELIE BIN SERVICE SKIP HIRE (All Sizes)

096-32500 www.loftusrecycling.com

Furniture recovering and restoration including covering of chairs, 3 piece suites, headboards, car seats and boat seats.

Hotel and Bar seating, Office furniture and other Contract / Commercial furniture.

Repair of sails, tents and other outdoor gear for sports and leisure.

We provide a service of Colour consultancy and Interior advice.

We retail upholstery fabrics and essentials.

Collection and delivery can be arranged at a small fee, depending on distance.

Boradruma, Snugboro, Castlebar • Tel: 094 9023532 / 086 8350608 Open Monday - Friday: 9am - 5pm Visit us online at www.boradrumaupholstery.ie

Addic!on Treatment Centre

Foxford, Co. Mayo

Call in confidence: 094"9256888 Email: hopehouse#eircom.net www.hopehouse.ie

Rehabilitation Cent!e specialising in the t!eat"ent of alcohol, dr#gs, gambling and other dependencies.

Hope House... “where recover$ begins”

MICHAEL KEAVNEY Tarcmacadam & Tarspraying Specialists

ALL TYPES OF PLANT HIRE • Water Analysis • Water Filtration • Water Softening • Well Drilling • Pump Supplied and Fitted • Rain Water Collection & Purification • Sewage Treatment Systems IN THE BUSINESS FOR OVER 25 YEARS

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

QUALITY GRAVEL STONE

ALL AT VERY COMPETITIVE PRICES! Pavior Machine Hire Tipper Lorry Hire 8 and 6 Wheel

Turlough, Castlebar, Co. Mayo 094-902-3853 / 086-250-3230

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 To windows, doors and patio doors

Expert patio door repairs!

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

Suitable for: • People with limited mobility • People who have had hip surgery • People with back aches

Over 20 years experience servicing Irish windows and doors. Fully insured GLASS PARTS ETC REPLACED

For details of your local stockist Phone Noel: 087-9896948

Brendan Gormley: 071-9183860 / 087-2562669

Shane McDonagh Tree Surgery and Agri Contractor

• Tree Pruning / Reduction • Tree Removal & Hedge Maintenance • Stump Grinding and Log Splitting Fully Insured

Tel: 087-2116836

Matt McGowan

Tel: 071-91 46858 Mobile: 087-206 9031

Maintenance, Landscaping, Hedge Trimming, Decorating Also: Leylandii trees topped and trimmed, Gutter Cleaning, Power Washing & Removal of all Green Waste (Grass, Hedging, Trees etc) Specs. for Planning Permission for trees & landscaping Roof Cleaning, Supplier of Trees and Hedges, Decorative Pea Gravel, also supplied Hedges and Trees

DATING CLASSIFIEDS IRISH LADY 50’S would like to hear from artist single, any age, anywhere, for firendship and companionship.

Replies with a box number 1040 at the usual address.

SINGLE SINCERE LADY Late 40’s - Interested in meeting a kind and loving male for friendship / relationship. No seperated or divorced.

Replies to Box number 1044 at the usual address.

GAY WEST

DATING Private, Personal & Professional Tel: 087-3331918

SLIGO LADY 50 BUT LOOKS 10 YEARS YOUNGER Would like to meet nice, respectable, loving, genuine, honest man for fun and dancing and see what happens.

Replies with a box number 1023 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

FREE DATING* CLASSIFIED

leading to a relationship Replies with a box number 998 at the usual address.

SLIGO LADY SEEKING MALE Late 50’s, likes music, dancing, walking and travel. N/S, S/D, profrssional l;ady, loving, caring, and honest. Interested in friendship maybe leading to a relationship. Replies with a blank stamped envelope to Box number 1012 at the usual address.

Heat Resistant Stove Glass We can Cut Robax Stove Glass to required Size & Shape While U Wait....

SCHOTT ROBAX is a heat resistant Ceramic Glass, suitable For 99% of Woodburning Stoves & Fireplaces Robax has an extremely low thermal expansion which allows it not to be effected by extremely high temperatures or sudden temperature changes.

We Always have Stove Glass in Stock & can cut it while you wait.

Far Finisklin Road, Sligo

Tel: 071-91 61924

sales@sligoglass.com • www.sligoglass.com

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

ADDRESS:

TELEPHONE NUMBER:

"pride in our work"

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.

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.

WRITE YOUR ADVERT HERE:

All applicants are individually matched by me - Call Jane on 087-3345116

THE FOLLOWING DETAILS ARE FOR OFFICE USE ONLY AND WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED. These details MUST be completed for all adverts NAME:

The Ideal Christmas Gift

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

Post the completed form to Mature Living Magazine, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo STRICTLY PRIVATE ADVERTISERS ONLY - BUSINESSES CAN CALL 071-9154538 AND SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY SALES REPRESENTATIVES ABOUT OUR EXCELLENT RATES.

Irish owned & operated.

Page 47 Mature Living February 2014