Mature Living Magazine Connacht Edition

PROMOTING A HEALTHY & POSITIVE LIFESTYLE Nov / Dec 2014

The other side of John Waters

Beauty industry wising up to 50-plus women

An overnight stay for two people WITH an evening meal & Breakfast

The

Breakaway to: Westport - a true gem

Exhibition

Sun 23rd Nov 12-6 Mon 24th Nov 10-6

Sligo Park Hotel See inside for further details

www.matureliving.ie

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T’S countdown time again to the Exhibition of the Year – the Mature Living Over-50s Expo – at Sligo Park Hotel, on Sunday and Monday, 23rd and 24th November. It promises to be the best one yet and we expect thousands to flock to see what’s on offer. We look forward to meeting many of our readers there.

This month’s issue also has so much for everyone. Kate Winter talks to Jim Lockhart of the enduring Celtic rock band, Horslips, who many of us were lucky to experience at their recent performance in the Knocknarea arena. Jim has been a versatile performer in so many spheres and his story about Horslips then, and now, makes for compelling reading. The success of the Horslips comeback is a major talking point in today’s Irish music world and the interview tells the unique story of what it’s like to be a rock star again after a 30-year gap.

Not too far from the rock world either is the muchacclaimed (though sometimes controversial) journalist/writer/playwright/novelist John Waters.

Our Kathryn Gilmartin caught up with John recently to talk to him about his successful career as a journalist and writer – the other side of John Waters as many would interpret. He talks about his earlier years with Hot Press (including the infamous interview with Charles J. Haughey), his time with the Sunday Tribune, Magill and In Dublin, before embarking on his career as one of the country’s leading social and cultural commentators through his columns in the Irish Times.

Elsewhere, we feature Hope House, Foxford who are celebrating 21 successful years of providing “hope” to so many people with addiction problems. We look at some of the myths of diabetes and explore some of the natural home remedies for colds and flus. We also look at what makes us happy in relationships and present some of the delight of Greek cuisine in our Food and Drink section.

The Museum of Country Life, Turlough, was host to some fine literary works by seniors on November 1st. This was part of the Samhain project and it provided an opportunity to celebrate the literary talents of many over the age of 50.

We join in the celebration on page 14.

Our Gardening section opens to a world of “Autumn Rust” as Leonie Cornelius brings us on another gardening adventure.

All of this, and more, in this November issue . . . and remember, again . . . Sligo Park Hotel is the place to be on 23rd and 24th. We look forward to meeting you there.

Seamus Casey - Editor

LAST MONTH’S COMPETITION WINNER Congratulations to Maisy Reynolds from Carrick On Shannon who won the breakawy to the fantastic Belleek Castle

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

News Launch of ‘Band of Brothers’ 2015 Calendar Jim Lockhart of the Horslips - Then and now Grey days ahead Blue Apple Dental Samhain: shadows, sounds & stories Home remedies for cold and flu Inspired Planting With Leonie Cornelius Sligo gearing up for the Exhibition of the year The other side of John Waters Westport - A true gem Hope house celebrates 21 years The difficulty of having ageing parents Home heating Competition The Bands of our Showband era A Taste of Greece Angelscopes Solicitors Guide Alternative Therapies Technology Services Directory Dating

4 8 10 12 13 14 16 18 20 28 32 42 43 44 45 46 48 50 51 52 53 58 59

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

Portlaoise ARA Member wins Silver Surfer Award

T

rudy Nealon (70) from Laois has been named as the overall winner of 2014 Google Silver Surfer Awards with Age Action.

Trudy uses technology on a daily basis for everything, as treasurer of the Portlaoise Active Retirement Association, she is also responsible for the administration of the club,

managing its finances and membership database.

In addition to doing all her banking, shopping, travel arrangements and correspondence online, Trudy also uses her expertise creatively. For her club she puts together presentations of proposed holidays for the local group to choose from and she even produces CD rom collections of holiday photos for members who take part in the group tours. This year the club celebrated its 10 year anniversary and to commemorate the occasion Trudy produced a DVD of the club’s history for all the members, complete with titles, credits and a soundtrack.

Minister for Communications, Energy and the Environment, Alex

White presented Trudy with her award and the prize of a brand new Google Chromebook laptop during a ceremony held in The Foundry building at Google headquarters in Dublin today.

Speaking at the awards ceremony he said:“The stories from this year’s silver surfers are fantastic and inspiring. They show the wide range of opportunities we can access online. They make very clear that no matter what your age, you are never too old to learn. One nominee got her Ph.D. at the age of 72, another wrote his memoirs at the age of 99.

For some, the skills they have learned and the confidence they have built with the help of community and voluntary organisations and with support from my

Department under the BenefIT Programme - have helped them lift themselves out of very difficult life situations. What is really great, and I want to stress this, is these opportunities can be available to everyone.”

Stuart McLaughlin, Head of GooglersGive EMEA said: “The entries this year were truly amazing, with such a high quality amongst all of the nominations. The stories of both the winners and their fellow nominees were so varied, showing the diverse reasons and ways of how and why people are getting online.

From connecting with family, to pursuing hobbies, to running local associations like Trudy, these Silver Surfers prove that it’s never too late to learn!”

"An investment in knowledge pays the best interest." - Benjamin Franklin

W

hen it comes to investing, nothing will pay off more than educating yourself. Do the necessary research, study and analysis before making any investment decisions. Investors who have a nest egg put aside are now being forced to do the unthinkable and take a risk with their money to get a return or just to keep ahead of inflation.

With the European Central Bank cutting their lending rates and the huge numbers of Tracker Mortgage holders in this country who have rejoiced with each rate cut watching their monthly repayment fall, but this is not good news for the retiree.

The fall in rates currently being offered by the Banks if you have money on deposit has been dramatic , saving rates have more than halved from a high over 5% AER 2 years ago, as banks in Ireland try to shore up their balance sheets and also feel the effect of the ECB rate cuts.

DIRT Rate Increase Coupled with the fact that interest rates have halved the Government in their wisdom have decided to increase DIRT to a punitive 41% or even 45% for some people who have unearned income from rent, deposits and dividends of over €3174 each year. So in most case the small bit of interest you receive from the banks, half is taken in tax and bear in mind this money in most cases has been taxed already as income tax!

DIRT free deposits accounts for those aged 65 and over. These accounts

allow you to receive any interest earned on money on deposit, paid to you without the deduction of DIRT, where you satisfy certain conditions: • Are aged 65 or over • If married or in a civil partnership the total annual income for you and your spouse/partner will be below the relevant annual exemption limit.

• Exemption limit for a single person is €18,000p.a. and for married/civil partnership is €36,000p.a.

So what are the best options out there for savers who don’t want to take any risk? Currently the best fixed term deposit rates on offer are between 1.75% and 2% each year depending on how long you want to tie up your money for. The AER annual equivalent rate which should always be used when comparing different rates What about An Post DIRT Free Accounts?

An Post is traditionally the home of the saver who wants their money safe and exempt from DIRT but An Post too has been forced to reduced their rates and really they are only an attractive home for your money if you are looking to investment over a medium to long term of say 4 to 10 years but short term if you are DIRT exempt you are better looking to the bank rate of 2% AER. For those willing to take a degree of risk with their money there are some very good protected equity funds in the markets place that would protect 70%, 80% or even 90% of the highest point your investment reaches at all times allowing you a certain safety blanket if markets turn but I would recommend speaking to a Qualified Financial Advisor in relation to your options here.

Finally a few words of warning, be wary

of banks now beginning to push their old reliable the Tracker Bond. A product where the guaranteed your capital and allow you access to the markets but in reality you tie your money up for 5 years plus and in most cases you don’t make any money you just get your original capital back.

• It is getting harder for banks to give you the guarantee, so the money is tied up for a longer period.

• Over 90% of your money is just put on deposit and over a 5 or 6 year period this comes back up to you 100%.

• The other 10% is used to cover fees and charges and to buy an option of a basket of shares.

• If the shares perform the option to buy them is use if they don’t perform you just get your capital back.

• Either way the bank can’t lose, and majority of the time the client just gets their capital back after 5 or 6 years of investing.

• One particular life company had a very good Tracker Bond but stopped using it with Brokers as the Brokers realised with deposit rates falling it wouldn’t give their clients a good return . . . this product is still available from one of our leading banks!

Also be aware of the terms and conditions of tying your money up for a short term if you need access to it the bank will penalise you, and always remember an investment in knowledge will always pay the best interest!!

Mark Gilmore QFA BBS 087-6788975 mark@moneytreefinancial.ie www.moneytreefinancial.ie Mark Gilmore T/A Money Tree Financial Services is a Qualified Financial Adviser who is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

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News

Love/Hate Actor Tom Vaughan-Lawlor supports Barnardos this Christmas

Love/Hate Actor and Barnardos Ambassador Tom Vaughan-Lawlor was joined by Daniel Lynch (6) and Kiki Deegan Hughes (5) to launch Barnardos’ Christmas appeal Photo: Patrick Bolger

L

ove/Hate Actor and Barnardos Ambassador Tom Vaughan-Lawlor was joined by Daniel Lynch (6) and Kiki Deegan Hughes (5) to launch Barnardos’ Christmas appeal calling on people to dig deep and give children a happy Christmas and a brighter future, by donating online www.barnardos.ie/christ mas or by calling 1850 216 216. Barnardos provides specialised early intervention and prevention services to almost 9,000 children and families in 40 community based centres across

Ireland supporting them to achieve their potential in life.

Speaking at the launch, Vaughan-Lawlor said, “During Love/Hate we filmed in some disadvantaged areas - it has been an eye-opener to me that the boom of the mid-noughties has left little or no legacy for many. We met kids who come from homes where money is tight, kids with so much potential and spark and so much to offer. The fear is that being caught in a poverty trap will compromise their potential.”

Barnardos CEO Fergus Finlay said, “Recent figures show that one in 10 children in Ireland today are living in consistent poverty without access to basic necessities. This means that this Christmas a little boy or girl in your community is going to bed cold, or waking up hungry.

Additional pressure is put on all families at Christmas time but it weighs heavier on those already on the brink.

Barnardos works with children and their families all year long – the work we do is intensive and

focused on changing children’s lives for the better.” Tom VaughanLawlor, who has been working with the children’s charity since 2012, said: “Watching my own son grow and thrive, and the privileges he has, is a constant reminder to me that so many children in Ireland do not have the same opportunities. My wife and I are very fortunate to be able to give our son a very magical Christmas Day from start to finish. We are very lucky to be in this position, when for so many mums and dads in Ireland it will be a stretch to make Christmas day special for their little ones. “We all know how tough life can be as adults; the burden of rents or mortgages and bills. There is time enough for children to have these burdens when they are older. Childhood should be as sacred and protected a time as adults can provide. Barnardos help parents provide that protection, but need the support and contribution of people who are in a position to help. Please support Barnardos this Christmas; whatever you can give will make a difference for the children they work with.

Visit www.barnardos.ie/christ mas or call 1850 216 216.”

Mayo Woman Wins Award for 19 Years Fulltime Care of Sick Husband

M

ayo woman, Eleanor Ryder has not taken a day off for nearly 19 years, since her husband Seamus Ryder contracted viral encephalitis and suffered an acute heart attack.

Mrs Ryder, who is in her 60’s, was named as the 2014 Carer of the Year at the annual Irish Red Cross Carer of the Year awards in Dublin’s Mansion House on Friday, 14th November 2014.

Encephalitis, an acute inflammation of the brain, left Mr Ryder with permanent damage to two areas of his brain in 1995, resulting in regular epileptic and anxiety based seizures, dramatically reducing his

motor skills and memory problems. An acute heart attack four years later resulted in Mr Ryder having 14 stents placed in his heart.

As his Carer, Mrs Ryder monitors her husband each night for seizures, hallucinations, partparalysis, chest pain and unconsciousness. She also takes care of Seamus’ day to day needs; preparing his meals, administering medication and accompanying him to hospital appointments.

The couple’s daughter Jennifer Ryder, who nominated her mother for the award, told how her parents will not go to sleep before 3am as her father is so scared of

having another seizure.

Adding, “Mum has not got a full night’s sleep since 1999 and sleeps on the floor or a chair when Dad has to go into hospital as he cannot communicate with the nurses himself”.

The Irish Red Cross Carer of the Year Award is an annual award open to all voluntary carers in Ireland. The award acknowledges the dedication of carers at home and in the community who provide an essential service to the vulnerable and display true humanitarian values.

Carers in county Mayo give more than 161,000 hours unpaid care to the county’s sick, elderly and

vulnerable each week.

Of Mayo’s 6558 carers, 40.5% regularly work a minimum of one to 14 hours a week, whilst a further 50% work between 15 and 43 hours a week.

As part of its Health and Social Care Programme, the Irish Red Cross aims to deliver humanitarian services to vulnerable people and communities in need across the country. In support of Ireland’s Carers the charity offers a range of resources and services; including the Carers Handbook, ‘Helping You to Care’ course, therapeutic hand care and skin camouflage services.

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News

Launch of ‘Band of Brothers’ 2015 Calendar

By Jim Gray

A

dozen extraordinary men drawn together by a strikingly poignant common bond.

The motley crew features a breath taking array of high achievers such as world champion martial arts exponent, a gourmet chef, a seasoned press photographer, a Garda officer, junior soccer star, successful publican, and an Atlantic swimmer.

But their greatest achievement and the attribute which makes them such a distinguished 'Band of Brothers' is that they've all conquered cancer.

And now they're sharing a glimpse into their unique experiences in a novel charity calendar which aims to raise badly needed funds for the local Sligo Cancer Support Centre.

All members of the centre's Men's Support Group, the not-so-dirty dozen are featured in an array of stunning photographs by acclaimed photographer, Peter Wilcock, a member of the group who was diagnosed with prostate cancer last year.

Explains Peter: "We wanted to show that there is life after cancer, and we wanted to reach out to men who have had cancer or are going through it and to tell them that life can and will

get better. All of us have come to terms with our own cancers, and our hope is that the photographs in the calendar will dispel some of the myths surrounding the effects of cancer.

Those who have seen it often comment that we don't look half bad, so that's a good starting point"!

Garda Jim Gallagher, who has recovered well from prostate cancer, believes the Men's Group is a great way for cancer survivors to help each other and that the calendar project has been a huge bonding experience.

He explains: "It's often said that men find it difficult to talk about their experiences, but actually that's not the case in the men's group, where we all find that it's a great help to chat about our shared experiences. We learn from each other and we have found we're able to laugh together at some of the scary stuff.

"The men in the calendar have all sat in a waiting room listening to the dreaded news that they have cancer, they've all gone through the treatment and the side effects and they're all now on the same road to recovery. We would all agree that it's been a life changing experience for the better, and I think that comes across in the photographs in the

calendar" The biographical notes accompanying the pictures tell some heroic stories of men who have faced and conquered illnesses ranging from prostate, throat and bowel cancer to myeloma.

The photographs and the uplifting stories they tell bear testimony to wonderful achievement wrought from wretched adversity.

The 'Band of Brothers' calendar was launched last Thursday by RTE Northern Ireland News Editor Tommy

Gorman and Sligo GAA Star Eamonn O'Hara.

Both Jim and Peter are keen to point out that this Calendar launch is part of a campaign to raise awareness amongst men of the need for regular GP check ups, a simple blood test is the key to early detection of most forms of cancer and gives a big percentage increase in the chances of successful treatment and survival .

'You owe this much not only to yourself but to your family' they say.

New Eye Health Recipe booklet launched to mark World Diabetes Day

F

ollowing the ‘Eye Am What I Eat’ campaign earlier this year, Diabetes Ireland, supported by Novartis, has today launched a new recipe booklet, ‘Eating For Your Eye Health’, to help people with diabetes to eat well for good eye health. The campaign aimed to raise awareness of diabetic macular edema (DME), a form of diabetic retinopathy that can have a severe effect on vision, causing significant sight loss.

Sinead Hanley, Senior Dietitian at Diabetes Ireland, explains “Following a healthy lifestyle by taking regular physical activity and achieving a healthy weight through a balanced diet is the key to managing your diabetes and maintaining healthy eyes and reducing the risk of developing DME and diabetic retinopathy. It is also important to ensure people with diabetes get their eyes screened regularly.”

Diabetic retinopathy is a common complication of diabetes and is the

leading cause of blindness in workingage adults in Ireland1. In fact, Irish statistics show that on average, one person with diabetes goes blind in Ireland each week2. In the early stages, diabetic retinopathy will not affect the sight, but if the changes get worse, eventually the sight will be affected. Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy can include blurred vision and black spots or ‘floaters’ that appear to float in your eye The National Diabetic Retinal Screening Programme, ‘Diabetic RetinaScreen’ offers free, regular diabetic retinopathy screening to all people with diabetes, aged 12 and older. Through the programme, people who are registered are invited to attend for screening. When people get the letter of invitation, they need to call the Freephone number listed on their letter to make an appointment.

This will go a long way to maintaining healthy eyes and preventing vision loss in people with diabetes.

“Unfortunately, many people with diabetes are not taking up their invitation to make an appointment. I cannot express strongly enough how important it is for everyone, on receipt of their invitation letter, to ring for their appointment.Attending for regular eye screening appointments will significantly improve your chances of avoiding eye problems in the future”, added Sinead. The ‘Eating For Your Eye Health’ recipe booklet covers an introduction to diabetes and diabetic retinopathy, with information on general healthy eating guidelines and the top 10 foods for eye health. There are 26 recipes which are colourful, easy to prepare and suitable for all those with diabetes and their families.

A copy of the booklet is available on www.diabetes.ie for downloading.

Further information on diabetic retinopathy and the risks associated with diabetes also available on www.diabetes.ie.

Doing What is Right

by Older People

By Anne Dempsey

O

ne of the most dramatic statistics on the changing demographics in Ireland is that back in 1901, the number of people aged over 65 was one in 25. Today it is one in nine, and current projections indicate that by 2035 older people will be moving towards one in four.

Within this group, the most significant increases will take place among the numbers of old-old rather than young-old or mid-old – that is people aged eighty plus who are the most likely group in need of care and attention at home, in a nursing home or community.

All this makes WeDO a timely programme. WeDO, which stands for the well-being & Dignity of Older People began over four years ago, as an AGE project developed by 18 people representing age welfare organisations in 12 Member States. (AGE is an umbrella organisation representing over 50 million older people in the EU). Originally conceived to raise awareness around elder abuse, WeDO soon developed into a deeper commitment to rights-based quality services for vulnerable older people. Each member state formed a national coalition, and the Irish coalition brought together a group of committed people in the health, research, advocacy legal and social care sectors and all working for the improvement in services for older people WeDO produced Guide which contained eleven Quality Principles. These define what a quality service for older people should look like in all settings. In alphabetical order the Quality Principles are: • Accessible – with information and advice about services easy to access • Affordable – either free of charge or not beyond the reach of most people • Available – at a location available to older people and their families • Comprehensive – reflecting the different needs, capacities and wishes of individual older people • Continuous – Able to respond with an interrupted range of services to someone’s changing needs • Gender and culture sensitive – paying due attention to the different needs of women and men of different ethnicities, including staff.

• Outcome-oriented and evidence based - focusing mainly on the benefits to the older person, their families and carers, based on best practice • Person-centred – respecting the integrity of each person, and aiming to improve their quality of life • Preventive – seeking to prevent deterioration and to hold as far as possible that quality of life and older person has • Respectful of human rights and dignity – respecting the fundamental rights of older people • Transparent – providing clear, accurate and up-todate information to older people and families about services offered, cost and accessibility.

For most people, extreme old age is not much fun.

There can be losses in health, mobility, purpose, a loss of loved people. These can be compensated to some degree by good relationships, a quality of acceptance, the bonus of the lessons learnt in life.

But some of the tough losses are inevitable, and are part of the territory of growing older.

However, some of the indignities and losses connected with old age are not inevitable, and have to do with the way older people are treated and perceived.

WeDO seeks in some way to lessen the inevitable sadness and losses of growing older by putting in place a rights-based approach of respect, value, care, feelings of equality towards older people in need of care and assistance -precisely because they are dependent, and need and deserve our care.

A current ad for a health facility talks about being there ‘when your experience needs ours’. WeDO is an example of the best that can happen when their humanity needs ours, when the humanity and dignity of older people needs and deserves the humanity and compassion of all age groups.

For more information about WeDO, contact Anne Dempsey on 087-7450721

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Feature by Kate Winter

J

im Lockhart has, over the years, turned his hand to economics and politics, journalism, music production, radio, TV, composing, advertising and rock n roll, to name but a few of his passions. Best known professionally for his production and presenting roles at RTE and publicly for playing keyboard and pipes in legendary Celtic rock band Horslips, Jim has always been a force to be reckoned with in the Irish music industry. Here, he talks to candidly to Kate Winter about the success of the Horslips comeback and how it feels to be a rock star again, almost thirty years after the first time round.

Page 10 Mature Living

was all within their own hands.

Horslips designed their own artwork, did their own research and created their own hugely popular concept albums based on Celtic mythology and legend.

They established their own record label, Oats, and licensed their recordings for use outside Ireland. They toured prolifically, according to Jim playing up to 250 gigs a year at their zenith.

"Sometimes when I hear people complaining about life on the road, about the 'stresses' of touring, I think Nonsense! It's like a permanent, paid holiday! But then, we were in our twenties, travelling the world, seeing amazing places and meeting great people. It was the time of my life."

Then 1971-1980 Horslips was a band that formed easily and naturally around a central group of Irish musicians who were moving in the same circles in the Dublin of the late sixties, who had "interlocking obsessions" as Jim Lockhart succinctly describes it. The timing was perfect for these young men to come together and form a band that would define generations of Irish rock music and create a whole new genre musically. Traditional Irish music had seen a marked improvement in social acceptance and esteem since the critical acclaim of Sean O'Riada's 1959 'Mise Eire' score, and Horslips shared a passion and a talent for both trad and rock, so why not bring them together?

As Jim explains, "We weren't trying to be altogether 'traditional' but we did want to bring some relevance to our rock n roll. I think music really only has validity if it reflects something of your own life and your own existence. And if it distils something of that into a little diamond hard artefact that then can be used by somebody else to make their own lives more meaningful, all the better."

It was a heady time for the band, who were innovative not only in

the music they produced, but also in their approach to the industry. Each of them had skills, education and experience, which when brought to the table made the group realise they could go it alone, without any of the usual record company dealings, managers or moneymen to muddy the waters.

"Everybody in the group had their own individual talents. Barry and Eamonn had been working in an ad agency, so they became press and promo. And Charles was a visual artist so he did all our design and costume and stuff.

I was admin and antiquities!"

They struck out independently, and enjoyed huge success, which

Backstage in Wembley 1978 - with Brian Downey, Barry Devlin, Phil Lynott

The In-Between Years Despite their success both in Ireland and internationally, particularly in the notoriously hard to break American market, Horslips disbanded with a memorable final performance at the Ulster Hall in 1980. They made no announcement regarding their rather sudden decision, though a fiddle did get flung into the audience as a final symbolic gesture. Jim recounts the experience of letting go: "It was my entire life back then and that's what made it very difficult when we broke up in 1980. There was a radical and sudden stop. It was a hard landing. We'd lived in a sort of bubble with each other and nobody else for the past ten years. We gradually had to put other stuff together and construct ourselves separate and different contexts to live and work in."

Which all the members of the band did. Some stayed in the music scene as gigging performers, some left it entirely.

Jim moved slowly into production, while teaching himself how to navigate the entirely new world of computer music and synthesisers. He progressed fast within the ranks of RTE, and kept his musical talents alive with plenty of composition and production work. Aside from the very famous world cup '90 song which used the intro to "Dearg Doom" as its hook, Horslips maintained an unusual level of radio silence throughout their two decade

break. A lot of Jim's own work would have been commonly enough heard, whether on radio or television, ads or shows. In fact, the instantly recognisable theme to popular Irish soap opera Glenroe was one product of the Lockhart expertise.

But Horslips themselves were not to be seen for an entire generation. Until...

Now 2004-2014 The early 2000's saw whispers of a potential comeback. There were doubts and hesitations on all sides, but the grรก for the music was still alive. In Jim's words: "We weren't sure about the possibility of coming back together to play again after the twenty-odd year absence. Most of us hadn't been playing all that much, and we weren't sure that what we had been doing back then would be appropriate for us to be doing again... we had left a fairly positive legacy and we certainly didn't want to ruin people's memories of that."

This hesitance to spoil the memory of the heyday of Horslips led to the decision to release a new acoustic album in 2004, revisiting some of the old hits in a more current context. It was rapturously received, and the band began to hear more and more calls for a reunion gig. They played a few TV slots and small, acoustic gigs, but the stage wasn't set for the official live comeback yet.

When it finally happened, it was no small matter, with Horslips selling out the O2 in Dublin and the Odyssey in Belfast for two

very special nights in 2009. And as Jim relates, the feeling of being back onstage with the band after twenty four years was beyond compare.

"It felt extraordinary to discover that we could still do this. The reaction was phenomenal. We had new elements sound wise, playing wise and approach wise, and as it transpired, everybody was playing even better than ever before. We were trying to reach an approximation of how we used to be, but we actually might have managed to eclipse it." The love of the band known as the fore-fathers of Celtic rock remains strong and they have been back on the road and gigging ever since, although nowhere near as prolifically as they did in the 1970's. The band is made up of almost all the original members and all are enjoying the experience of Horslips the second time around, more than forty years since they first formed.

Jim is positive when asked how the rock n roll lifestyle is treating him these days, laughing "It's really good at the moment. The most remarkable thing about it to me is that we're all still alive!"

He elaborates that it's a great time to be a musician today, because as he sees it, "Music, and in particular rock n roll, is more diverse and more central to more people's lives, in a more radical way, than ever before. Nothing ever happens anymore without a rock n roll soundtrack."

So there we have it, from one of the original Celtic Rock Gods of Irish music: Rock N Roll ain't dead.

Jim pictured with Charles, Barry and Johnny Killarney

Fashion

GREY DAYS AHEAD

T

he beauty industry is wising up to the spending power of 50-plus women.

Witness the recent announcement that 69-year-old Helen Mirren, the unofficial spokeswoman for living fabulously after 50, will be the new UK ambassador for L’Oreal Paris.

And she’s in good company. Tilda Swinton (53) will head up the spring 2015 campaign (a baton she was handed by fall 2014’s face Charlotte Rampling), while Jessica Lange fronts the Marc Jacobs beauty line.

It’s refreshing to see older women assigned to products outside of the Helen Mirren for L’Oreal Paris anti-aging category. There’s no reason why a 50-something consumer would not still be interested in the latest cheekbone sculpting bronzer (because really, who wouldn’t want that kind of pain-free enhancement?).

In the paint and powder world that is the beauty industry — one where women never seem to age above the age of 29 — this new inclusive wave is a welcomed change, but it’s not a surprise. The cosmetics giants are still more inclined to cast young beauties with line-free faces to star in their adverts, but these companies can’t

Actress Tilda Swinton

ignore the massive 50-plus demographic and the spending power older adults bring with them. The luxury brands are especially attuned to this as older women are the consumers who have the money to buy their pricey, prestige products.

And if you want their dollars, it just makes sense: you have to market to them. Put faces like theirs in magazine adverts, on TV screens, and across billboards.

Get ready for the grey days ahead.

Do women feel invisible to the opposite sex at 51

A

s a new survey claims that women feel invisible to the opposite sex at 51. If you had been one of the 2000 women asked to participate, would you have responded in the same way?

I have to say that this particular survey seems to convey a pretty grim outlook on life over 50 – it would be interesting to see precisely what questions were asked. These are just some of the findings: Many went as far as to admit they felt ‘ignored’.

The women who said their confidence plummeted after

hitting 50 blamed the fact their hair was greying or they were having to wear glasses, while others found it harder to find fashionable clothes.

The lifestyle study, commissioned by herbal remedies company, A.Vogel, also found more than two thirds of women over 45 had walked into a room and felt ‘completely unnoticed’ by the opposite sex.

More than half said they felt ‘left on the shelf’ and that they’d been ‘judged negatively’ because of their age.

The study also found just 15% of

women over 45 could claim they had high or very high confidence while, sadly, nearly half described themselves as not very confident at all.

The biggest reason for a decline in self-belief was the feeling that their image had deteriorated.

A dejected four in ten said not getting attention from men like they used to was a factor, more than half had felt intimidated by the presence of younger women at a social event.

A concerned six in ten of the 2,000 studied felt modern life is geared toward a focus on

younger women, while 46% thought that a lot of what older women go through wasn’t seen or spoken about.

The menopause and confidence The research also examined the effect the menopause has on women’s confidence as they age.

The results showed around one in five who had experienced menopausal symptoms had difficulty in finding answers to the questions they had about the changes they were facing.

In fact, only 13% felt women were well supported in the lead

How do you define style?

D

Look at Advanced Style for Inspiration oes wearing a hat make you stylish? Is the shoes, the earrings – or just a strong sense of self?

Advanced Style by Ari Seth Cohen is a wonderful book – full of photographs of stylish women – advanced in both years and style as he captured them on camera as they walked through the streets of New York.

I looked through the wonderful images in the

Page 12 Mature Living

book, it struck me just how many of the stylish women featured wore hats or headpieces. They all look stylish – incredibly ‘pulled together’.

The hats add to both their style and their stature. It did make me wonder why so many of us (myself included) tend to wear hats only for special occasions, when a simple hat really can transform an outfit – not to mention be a saviour on bad hair days!

Hats bring interest to every outfit The hats worn by the Advanced Style women in Ari’s book seemed to bring balance and interest to every outfit.

All the women in Ari’s book confident, are not afraid to be noticed – they have all developed their own signature styles , and demonstrate their love of bold accessories. No timid sunglasses for these ladies.

Whether they add unusual

shoes , belts or earrings to an outfit they really know how to make a statement and show their own unique personality. They all appear to have a passion for life which is reflected in their clothes.

With some of the women featured being over 100they certainly know how to look Fab after Fifty – no shrinking violets and with a determination to NOT be invisible.

up to the menopause.

The research, which also involved 500 men, showed many have a ‘head in the sand’ approach to the menopause.

“The results show a worrying decline in confidence and selfworth in women when faced with the prospect of growing older.The world can feel very geared toward appreciating younger women, leaving those of a certain age to feel neglected or less worthy” according to a spokesperson for the company who commissioned the survey.

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

Shout it from the rooftops!

Dental Implant Retained Dentures Can Change Your Life when you aren’t thinking about it. The expressions of your mouth are a large part of your enjoyment in life, and your communication with other people. So it is no wonder that dissatisfaction with dentures can have such a large impact on you physically, personally and emotionally.

I

f I had to choose a dental treatment I am most passionate about, it is this.

Dentures can be a bit taboo nowadays.

Wearers of dentures, understandably, often don’t want to talk about them, and they can cause social embarrassment and lower your confidence. If you have never really listened to someone who is suffering with a problem conventional denture (by ‘conventional’ I mean just that, a traditional denture) describe

what it is like, you have probably never even considered what that would be like in your own mouth.

The Problems The most obvious problem people wearing dentures experience, in particular full dentures, is it being loose. This means it moves around, making it difficult to function adequately, to enjoy certain foods, and to feel confident in social situations that it will remain in place. It can also

cause discomfort, rubbing on soft gum tissue and causing irritation.

The likelihood of this is exacerbated for the lower jaw, and a loose lower denture can be the most disheartening, because this is where the ridge to hold it in place is usually most compromised. This can really take its toll on a person day to day.

When you think about it, your mouth is moving all day long.

You use it to eat, speak, smile, frown, kiss, and it moves even

The Solutions When I take a call from someone with a problem denture I feel so confident that the treatments we can offer them can make such a positive difference for them.

At Blueapple, helping people get rid of the problems of unstable dentures is one of our most popular treatment options, and has been for many years. The most predictable means of achieving this is with the use of dental implants. By placing a small number of dental implants we know we can provide a stable, reliable base a denture can clip on to.

You will be able to eat better, feel more comfortable, and smile more confidently knowing it is securely in place.

Dental implants are only small, but the jaw grows firmly around them and they are reliably anchored in place.

In the lower jaw this can be as little 2 implants, and in the upper jaw, 4. At the most straight forward level, someone who has no natural teeth remaining will often find that 2 implants on the lower jaw will help their situation, even if they choose to maintain a conventional, non-implant denture in the upper jaw.

In the upper jaw implants also give you the option of freeing up your palate again. As one patient lovingly described it, ‘I can now go on holiday and enjoy the feeling of ice-cream on the roof of my mouth again.’

A Step Further Of course, with dental implants you have the option of getting rid of a denture altogether, and going back to having nonremovable teeth fixed in place.

There are a variety of options for both removable and nonremovable teeth, depending on what you feel will work for you and how much you wish to spend.

Ultimately the choice is yours, but we can tell you that dental implants can change your life!

If you would like to explore your options with dental implants, call us today on 048 66386111.

‘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 Editorial

Samhain: shadows, sounds & stories Samhain:Literary group and guests

The Joy of Samhain

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his year at the National Museum of Ireland – Country Life there was a very special performance to celebrate Samhain on the 1st November 2014. A showcase of creative writings developed at workshops led by Terry McDonagh and the museum staff. This event was one of the highlights of the Samhain Project. A joint initiative of the National Museum of Ireland, Age & Opportunity and Poetry Ireland.

People over 50 years were invited to join creative workshops inspired by the ancient festival of Samhain. It was a time for reflection, a time to take stock of the herds and grain supplies, a time to plan ahead for the winter.

Traditionally, Samhain was the Celtic harvest festival marking the end of the ‘lighter half’ of the year and the beginning of the ‘darker half’. This darker

Page 14 Mature Living

time of year was used to explore and reflect on the themes of ageing, dying and loss.

Three groups took part in the project based in Belfast, Dublin and Mayo: • In Belfast participants from the Ballybeen Women’s Centre worked through Photography with Belfast Exposed.

• In Dublin at the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology participants took part in music workshops with Elaine Agnew.

• At the National Museum of Ireland –Country Life, the group took part in creative writing workshops led by Terry McDonagh.

Through the artefacts, customs and folklore of the Folklife collection participants explored the festival of Samhain and burial traditions. The work created for this exhibition is inspired by the festival of Samhain through the Folklife

collection as well as reflections on aging, dying and loss. With museum staff they explored artefacts, customs and traditions associated with Samhain, wakes and burials.

The group also had a workshop with well-known storyteller Eddie Lenihan. The creative writing works include poetry, a mini saga and Flash Fiction.

Before the actual writing began, childhood stories, beliefs and customs were exchanged and discussed.

Samhain can disturb – it can be full of tomfoolery. Happy, sad, and mischievous poems, mini sagas, legends and fiction began to emerge. Confidence grew as stories began to take on a life of their own; the significance of Celtic pre-Christian and socalled pagan influences on Halloween began to emerge.

There were accounts of mysterious goings-on in bogpools, unexplained disappearance and reappearance of a dog long after it had departed this life.

Tales of strange happenings, fairy interventions, shawlwrapped keeners and cailleachs were resurrected. All the trappings, games, ducking, rings in barmbracks, face-shaped turnips, masks, trick or treat and pumpkins all got their moment of glory.

On the performance on the 1st November in Turlough Park all of these were brought to life as each participants presented their work in an engaging and entertaining manner. Terry led the group through the performance and read some of his own poems and introduced the project. Joe Byrne added to the magical atmosphere by playing the flute and tin

whistle. Overall it was a wonderful afternoon enjoyed by all.

The work of the three groups will be showcased in an exhibition entitled ‘Samhain: shadows, sounds & stories’ at the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology. The exhibition will be launched by Heather Humphreys, T.D. Minister for Arts, Heritage & the Gaeltacht and will be on display at the

Mary Joe's story

National Museum of Ireland Archaeology from Thursday 20 November to Sunday 7 December inclusive. Admission is free and all are welcome.

The initiative is funded in 2014 by the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht; the National Museum of Ireland; Age & Opportunity; Poetry Ireland and Mayo Co. Co. Arts Office and supported by the Ulster Museum and Music Network.

MENS FASHION

with EJ Menswear

A True Gentleman

By Rodney Munn

“The greatest act of rebellion today is being a true gentleman" from Being Caballero. To do a little research on the word gentleman was a bit of a revelation,the word gentleman can conjure up a number of pictures and ideas to what the meaning of the word conveys.

It certainly would bring to mind a mannerly, courteous and honourable individual, who would put the interests of others ahead of his own.

Being Caballero is a blog which highlights what it means to be a gentleman in all its ways. The Spanish word Caballero means gentleman, another of the quotes from Being Caballero is "the first step to being respected is to look respectable".

Which brings me to the reason I began this article the way I did, the whole emphasis for the new Autumn look has an air of respectability and a gentlemanly look.

This season we have an exquisite range of sports jackets which feature

wool, checks and tweeds - all of these celebrate the traditions of craft and style whilst oozing a sense of old values with a modern twist.

Also part of the look are waistcoats again in wool and polyster fabrics, in plain colours, tweeds and checks.

These can be worn either casually or

dressy and can be worn with the jackets either toning with the jacket or as a contrast.

These outfits which we have on display in our store, certainly convey the look of a gentleman who has a style and character, so you actually don't have to find yourself, you have defined yourself.

This look has an appeal that has reached across all age barriers and everyone can interpret it to their own liking.

As the weather continues to get cooler the longer and heavier coats and jackets will make an appearance and the range we have this year continues with the gentlemanly theme, with wool coats in single and double-breasted styles. The tweed and herringbone coats compliment any gentleman as he takes his leisurely country stroll.

Keeping with the theme we have another quote this time from Vin Diesel "Being a male is a matter of birth, being a man is a matter of age, but being a getleman is a matter of choice” So making such an important decision covers a lot of areas in life.

However even in the matter of choosing the right shirt from our extensive range of brands even this can compliment the overall look of stature and grace of a true gentleman as he enters any room.

Here at EJS we continue to give thought to the style of the mature man which will highlight at the up and coming exhibition here in Sligo athe the park hotel.

So now its not about the guy you want to be, but the GENTLEMAN you have become!!!

DOGS TRUST LEGACY

L

egacy giving is vital in order to secure the future of Dogs Trust. Dogs Trust saves the lives of over 1,500 puppies/adult dogs from destruction in the pounds each year.

Our life saving work is only made possible thanks to the support and generosity of the general public.

Leaving a % in a will can really go along way in helping continue our work.

We are highlighting the importance of this vital fundraising stream during Best Will in the World Week in October.

The size of the legacy can be any value – no donation is too small.

Health

Home remedies for colds & flu

T

is the season. Colds and flu seem to be lurking around every corner, yet there are things you can do to help protect yourself and to remedy the symptoms if you can’t escape them.

Here’s how Julie Daniluk, a registered nutritionist, health educator and best-selling author, suggests keeping bugs at bay.

The minute you feel a cold coming on rinse out your sinuses: This helps to flush out the virus invaders and reduce your risk of the infection settling in, says Julie. You can use the centuries-old Neti Pot, which looks something like a teapot and serves to flush out the nasal passages with a salt water solution you mix yourself.

(But it’s very important to follow the instructions and use only distilled or sterilized water, not tap water.)

Alternatively, you can buy premixed, pre-loaded saline nasal sprays at the drugstore, which Julie says have about the same salt-to-water ratio as your own tears. But even if you don’t manage to ward off that bug, rinsing out your sinuses can help to reduce the mucous and stuffy

Page 16 Mature Living

nose that always seem to accompany a cold.

Gargle with unpasteurized honey: Any non-pasteurized wildflower honey will do, but if you want one with a super powerful punch, Julie recommends Manuca honey from New Zealand, which is known for its high concentration of anti-bacterial elements. But all unpasteurized honeys, she says, contain hydrogen peroxide which helps to kill off microbes in your throat. “There’s real science behind that,” she says.

Julie recommends making a gargle solution out of warm water, not boiling, and dissolving a teaspoon of honey in it. Alternatively, you can drink ginger tea with lemon and honey, but let it cool down a bit before you add the honey so you preserve its active

ingredients. You can also dissolve half a teaspoon of unpasteurized honey in your mouth, just like you would a lozenge.

Dig into that “ever-loving garlic”: “Raw garlic is so, so strong,” says Julie. The active ingredient in raw garlic is allicin and it’s known to have antibacterial, antifungal and

antiviral properties, which she says “are especially great for lung infections.” But make sure you eat it raw since its power is diminished in the cooking process. You can use this powerful nutraceutical in pesto, salad dressings and salsa.

Eat mushrooms: Certain mushrooms, like Shiitake, are very good for preventing colds and flu, Julie says, and are especially easy to add to soups. (Her recipe for

Shiitake soup is at the end of this article.)

Stay super hydrated: “Viruses love dry sinuses, plus our whole immune system runs on fluid,” says Julie. “So if you suspect you’re getting a cold, make some tea right away and drink at least 10 cups throughout the day.” And avoid alcohol, which has high sugar content and is dehydrating. “White sugars have been shown to slow the white blood cells response to infection,” Julie says. (Sorry, but those Hot Rum Toddies you always thought were good for a cold are not on her list.)

So does Julie ever get sick herself?

Not much, she says. “The only thing that takes me down is missing sleep, then getting on a plane. Planes are so dry and crowded. You’ve got all those people coughing in a tiny little cabin. I always advise people to power hydrate during thier entire flight. After clearing security, buy one of those huge water bottles and make sure you drink the whole thing. That little half a cup of fluid they give you on board just doesn’t cut it.”

Shiitake Mushroom Soup Ingredients: 8 cups (2 L) vegetable broth 6 cups (1.5 L) cauliflower, chopped 6 cups (1.5 L) shiitake mushrooms, chopped 1/2 tsp (2.5 mL) pink rock or grey sea salt 1 tbsp (15 mL) apple cider vinegar 2 cups (500 mL) onions, chopped Directions: 1. Place all ingredients into a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce and cook for 20 minutes. 2. When finished, puree with immersion blender until smooth. 3. Serve warm, with a drizzle of pesto.

Makes 12 servings.

6 myths about Diabetes A

ccording to the World Health Organization, more than 347 million people worldwide have diabetes, and by 2030 the disease could very well be the 7th leading cause of death. Diabetes also exacts a huge economic burden: hundreds of billions of dollars are spent on complications of diabetes, many of which could have been prevented with proven, low-cost treatments.

Despite its potentially devastating effects, many people aren’t fully informed about the dangers of diabetes, nor of the proven ways to prevent and treat it. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) lists these six commonly held misconceptions about the disease.

MYTH: Diabetes is not a killer disease.

FACT: Diabetes is actually responsible for some 4 million deaths a year — which means that every 7 seconds a person dies from diabetes-related causes. It is also a contributing

factor to deaths from heart disease and stroke.

MYTH: Diabetes only affects rich countries.

FACT: Diabetes is becoming increasingly common and affects all populations, regardless of income. More than 346 million people worldwide are now living with diabetes, and if the current rate of growth remains unchecked, this number is expected to grow to more than 380 million by 2025.

In many countries in Asia, the Middle East, Oceania and the Caribbean, diabetes affects 1220 per cent of the population.

And by 2025, 80 per cent of all cases of diabetes will be in lowand middle-income countries.

Furthermore, 80 per cent of deaths due to diabetes occur in low- and middle-income countries, according to the WHO. MYTH: Diabetes only affects old people.

FACT: In reality, diabetes affects all age groups.

Dementia Adviser Service

Currently, an estimated 246 million people between the ages of 20 and 79 have diabetes. And, due largely to increasing obesity rates, more children are now being diagnosed with type-2 diabetes.

MYTH: Diabetes predominantly affects men.

FACT: Cases of diabetes are rising in both men and women, and in fact, it affects slightly more women than men. It is also increasing dramatically among youth and indigenous populations.

MYTH: Diabetes cannot be prevented.

FACT: While it is true that type1 diabetes is not preventable, up to 80 per cent of type-2 diabetes is preventable by a healthy diet, increasing physical activity and promoting a healthy lifestyle. (For more on stopping diabetes before it starts, see Put diabetes on hold.)

MYTH: Diabetes prevention is too expensive.

FACT: Many inexpensive and cost-effective interventions exist. Proven strategies for improving the living environment, changing diet and increasing physical activity can reverse the pandemic. (See how smart food choices can help prevent diabetes.)

Diabetes: An Overview Type-1 diabetes, usually diagnosed in children and adolescents, is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when the pancreas is unable to produce insulin. Most people with diabetes — about 90 per cent — have Type-2 diabetes, which occurs when the pancreas does not

The Dementia Adviser service provides locally based, one-to one information, signposting and emotional support. We work with people of any age who have been diagnosed,or who are awaiting a diagnosis fo dementia.

This includes people with Alzheimer's Disease and other forms of Dementia.This is a confidential and free service.

People can contact us directly.We also welcome referrals from health and social care professionals.

Dementia Adviser Sligo/Leitrim/South Donegal 0867796390 email :modonnell@alzheimer.ie Dementia Adviser Monaghan /Cavan 0877489258 email:mmontgomery@alzheimer.ie produce enough insulin or when the body does not effectively use the insulin that is produced.

This form of diabetes usually develops in adulthood, although increasing numbers of children in high-risk populations are being diagnosed.

If left untreated or improperly managed, diabetes can result in a number of complications, including: -Heart disease -Kidney disease -Eye disease -Problems with erection (impotence) -Nerve damage Doctors say that people with diabetes can expect to live vital and independent lives if they’re committed to treating and managing their condition. This

can include medication as well as healthy lifestyle choices such as regular physical activity, weight and stress management and maintaining good nutrition.

Sources: International Diabetes Federation; World Health Organization.

Herbs could be natural diabetes remedy

S

imon and Garfunkel got it partly right with their 1966 album title: Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme.

The herb they missed was oregano.

New scientific research shows that rosemary and oregano could lower blood sugar levels in much the same way as prescription anti-diabetic medication.

Scientists tested four different herbs, either

greenhouse-grown or dried commercial versions, for their ability to interfere with a diabetes-related enzyme, which is also a target of a prescription drug for the disease.

They found that greenhouse herbs contained more polyphenols and flavonoids compared to the equivalent commercial herbs. But this didn’t affect the concentration required to inhibit the enzyme.

Commercial extracts of Greek

oregano, Mexican oregano and rosemary were better inhibitors of the enzyme, required to reduce risk of type-2 diabetes, than greenhouse-grown herbs.

The researchers say more studies are needed to understand the role of these compounds in reducing the risk of type-2 diabetes in humans.

The study was published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.

Page 17 Mature Living

INSPIRED PLANTING WITH LEONIE CORNELIUS

Autumn Rust

A unique idea for creating some richly coloured Autumn planters

G

arden Designer and TV presenter Leonie Cornelius talks us through the steps to create your own stunning rusty coloured autumn planter. The first time I experimented with steel treatments was for my Bloom showgarden in 2012. My planting, which was based on a meadow style planting was very soft and muted and I wanted some really rich and deeply coloured features in the garden to offset it. My friend John from NOJI achitecture had kindly given me some fantastic off-cuts of Corten steel sheets to use in the garden and it allowed me to experiment with some interesting treatments to steel. Corten is a particularly dense steel that rusts up wonderfully but you can use normal steel for this planter idea if you can’t get your hands on Corten. Steel is a fantastic material to use for a variety of features in the garden and in this instance I used them as water features and art-works as a backdrop on the walls. It is a fascinating material to work with and it always amazes me that no two pieces look the same when they rust up. In this article I will explain the steps to achieving a really rich looking and super simple rusty steel effect. Perfect for an autumn planter with some colourful inspired planting. bottom to save you doing it yourself.

Creating the Rust effect Normal steel will rust up on its own over time but if you want to accelerate the process and achieve this amazing rich effect over night then give this idea a go.

It sounds mad but the best thing to rust up steel overnight is a mix of warm vinegar with salt mixed into it.

There are other possible treatments-I even tried acids for TV, but vinegar is just as good, far safer and also environmentally friendly. I took a litre bottle of normal vinegarand after warming up the vinegar slightly in a pot I mixed in a bag of ordinary cooking salt and mixed it until it is as dissolved as possible.

Step 1 The first thing you’ll do is paint up the whole outer side of the planter with your vinegar and salt mix. This will dry fairly well if you are doing it outside and I would reccomend to give it at

WHAT YOU NEED: A steel planter A bucket of salt in warmed vinegar A medium painters paintbrush Potting Compost A selection of autumn plants Weed membrane METHOD The planter Once you have decided what size your planter needs to be you can have it made up for you. You can do smaller ones for windowsills or large ones for your patio. The possibilities are endless.

Rathedmond Engineering in Finisklin are a brilliant family run business who will make up any size and shape for you.

Tip Keep in mind that thin steel bends so the bigger the feature the thicker the steel will need to be. More lateral internal support may be needed if you go really big. Also, ask them to drill a couple of drainage holes into the

Page 18 Mature Living

least 3 coats of the mixture, letting it dry in- between each coat. One of the really cool things that happens as a byproduct of having used salt mix is that the planter will take on a shimmer from the salt which is really nice...unfortunately it only lasts until the rain washes it off.

I generally give each planter about 10 coats of the salt/vinegar mix altogether depending on how quickly I want them to rust up.

Step 2.

Prepare your planting bed for the plants.

I use a black weed membrane between the planter and the soil to avoid the rust seeping into the soil and then I fill it in with the potting soil. I used a simple potting compost by BordnaMona from Homeland which is fantastic to give the plants a good start to establish.

Step 3 The plants which you out into the scheme is totally up to you.

Keep in mind, rusty colour of the steel lends itself really well to all sorts of lilacs and purple hues.

Whites and strong pinky-lilacs also work really well. I have chosen a modern vintage mix of magenta winter flowering heathers, amazingly scented Dianthus ‘Pink Kisses’ and some evergreen trailing ivy as a base plant which drapes over the edge of the planter. I also added in a few shade loving cyclamen ‘Snowridge’ Purple at the base of the other plants for more dots of colour.

Step 4.

Now you are ready to plant your plants. Planting combinations work really well in odd numbered groups. The rule of three applies here just like in many other design layouts and groups of fives and sevens also work well depending on the size of your planter. Aim to plant the plants in a non structured and irregular pattern as they normally do in nature and this will make the scheme look as if it’s been there forever.

Step 5 Water your plants well and enjoy the richly coloured autumn planter.

Note. Be careful to note that rusty steel can stain tiles and walls if placed on a surface that is porous so avoid positioning it on or near light coloured and porous materials-light windowsills included.

Leonie Cornelius is an award winning garden designer and TV presenter who runs her own businessBLUME design -contact: www.blume.ie corneliusleonie@me.com To see more images and a Planting Plan go to BLUME DESIGN facebook page

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Health and Wellbeing

Understanding Your Bodyclock

A

ncient peoples have known for thousands of years how the earth’s daily rhythms, time zones and seasonal changes affects the flow of energy in our meridians and their associated organs and are vital for health, healing and wellbeing. In this Article by Sue Woodd she explains how it all works A great deal of research on biological clocks was done in the latter half of the 20th century.

It is now known that the molecular circadian clock can function within a single cell; i.e., it is cell-autonomous. At the same time, different cells may communicate with each other resulting in a synchronized output of electrical signalling. These may interface with endocrine glands of the brain to result in periodic release of hormones.

The receptors for these hormones may be located far across the body and synchronize the peripheral clocks of various organs. Thus, the information of the time of the day as relayed by the eyes travels to the clock in the brain, and, through that, clocks in the rest of the body may be synchronized.

sonal times of year also resonate with different organs: The heart is associated with summer (and the desire to move, open and circulate), whereas the kidneys need winter’s resting phase, and long dark nights to re-charge and renew.

How our bodyclock controls our organs This is how the timing of, for example, sleep/wake, body temperature, brain wave activity, hormone production, cell regeneration, thirst, appetite and other biological activities are coordinately controlled by the biological clock. It also allows organs to have a high and low time of energy: for example the Stomach is strongest between 7 and 9 am and weakest between 7 (19.00) to 9 pm (21.00). Hence the saying breakfast

like a king and dinner like a pauper. People who have week stomach energy, for example, may be able to easily go without breakfast and yet it is the very best time for them to have their largest meal.

The root of most disease is caused by: things not happening in the correct amount, in the right way or at the appropriate time. The earth’s daily rhythms, time zones and seasonal changes affect the flow of energy in your meridians (energy pathways) and its associated organ. Just as tides go though their daily cycle each of your meridians/organs, has its own 24 hour cycle with a high and low tide of energy. A time when it’s flow is strongest or a time of rest respectively.

What has also been well documented in traditional forms of medicine is that sea-

Understanding how to reset the bodyclock Therefore understanding how re-set the body’s clock essential to restore congruity and unity as well as maximizing our energy, especially after illness, trauma, travel, long periods of stress and other energy interference. Yoga and Qigong are just the tools we need.

Yin and Yang: Meridians are classified either yin or yang on the basis of the direction they flow, and the basic nature of the organ and its function. When you look at the clock you will see a Yin organ time is opposite and Yang organs time, and visa versa.

Constant unimpeded energy flow is vital to maintain health The organ meridians are actually unbroken energy flows, which go in one definite direction and flow from one meridian to another in a well-determined order. Since there is no beginning or end it is just a continual ebbing and flowing cycle, just like the tides of the sea or as day transforms into night visa versa. The lungs, for example, gives energy to the large intestine so that by breathing well we encourage the release of

toxic waste.

This clock indicates the peak time of each organ, and the Triple Heater relates to the skin and connective tissue the biggest organ of them all!! Understanding how to re-set the body’s clock is an essential tool to maximize energy levels, and restore congruity and unity especially after illness, trauma, travel, shift work, long term medication, operations, prolonged periods of stress or grief, working long hours with computer screens or other energetic interference.

Constant stress overloads the energetic circuits When constant stress occurs it overloads the energetic circuits so regular use of the body clock sequence can be used to rebalance and flush the system, Perhaps why the sun and moon salutations are viewed as the mainstay of Yoga practice.

We have two guides along life’s path, wisdom and love (Yin and Yang), so we can learn to work according to the laws of wisdom and the ways of love.

Wisdom and love can be compared to the hands of a clock; wisdom the little hand that marks the hours and love the big hands that shows the minutes. Thanks to wisdom we choose the time and direction to take and adopt the ways of love which is to live each minute with energy, joy and enthusiasm without losing impetus. This way we can reconcile a program for the day with one for eternity. Master Omraam Mikhael Aivanhov

Mature Living Exhibition

Sligo gearing up for the Exhibition of the year

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

M

ature Living Magazine is pleased to announce that the Mature Living Ultimate Lifestyle Show will be held on Sunday 23rd & Monday 24th November at The Sligo Park Hotel, Pearse road, Sligo.

Doors will open from 12 on the Sunday and 10am on Monday.

Having fun, sharing time with people you enjoy, surrounding yourself with things you like, are just some of the fundamentals of living a happy and fulfilling life. As a visitor to the Mature Living Exhibition, it will encompass all of these highlights and feature many more. Visitors will be treated to a full array of shopping opportunities, interactive exhibits, main stage entertainment, informative presentations and a fun inexpen-

Register online before Nov 22nd to receive free entry

sive day out with family and friends.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HOTEL & LEISURE CLUB

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

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

The shows take place in The Sligo Park Hotelon the 23rd and 24th of November Visit www.matureliving.ie for the latest details Page 20 Mature Living

The

Exhibition

www.matureliving.ie

E T A M I T THE UL

SHOW

Sun 23 Nov 12-6 Mon 24 Nov 10-6 at the

Sligo Park Hotel

• Fashion Show • Genealogy • Health Checks • Investment Advice • Alternative Therapies • Job Expo • Legal Advice • Crafts & Baking • Afternoon Tea Dance • Antique valuations • Home Improvement • Holidays • Recruitment Opportunities • Motoring • Gardening • Cosmetic procedures • Computing and Internet tuition • Personal finance • Property ..... to name but a few!

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Page 38 Mature Living December 2013

Charming Tea house and craft shop Offering good wholesome food together with mouth watering home made cakes and desserts. There is a selection of Yeats and Irish interest books to browse through, complimented by a distinctive selection of original quality crafts.

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By Catherine Gilmartin

ANOTHER

SIDE OF

JOHN WATERS

Page 28 Mature Living

By Catherine Gilmartin

L

ove him or hate him John Waters’ brutal honesty and intellectual mind is second to none. A man of many talents, he can never be accused of sitting on the fence and his forthright opinions have landed him in much controversy.

Born in Castlerea, Co. Roscommon in 1955, he has one daughter Roisin from a brief relationship with Sinead O’Connor. John said being a father was `the best feeling in the world'' and he is an ardent supporter of the Fathers’ Rights Movement in Ireland.

Irish journalist John Waters’ career began in 1981 with the Irish music magazine Hot Press. He went on to write for the Sunday Tribune and later edited the magazines In Dublin and Magill, before establishing himself as one of the country’s leading social and cultural commentators through his weekly column in the Irish Times.

His long association with the Irish Times saw his columns form part of the national social discourse. John says: “It was an amazing period.

Everywhere I went in Ireland, people were reading the Irish Times, and there was a sense of revolution and change, though not in the way those words come about now. It had a more spiritual and psychecentred thing. I think of myself as very lucky to have experienced that period, before the paper lost its way”.

When John started his career in 1981 with Hot Press, it was still a new magazine at a time when Ireland was beginning to catch up with the rest of the world as a society.

“I don't anymore accept the premise of the question about 'catching up' on the rest of the world, although I suppose I may have seen it that way at the time. It was a great buzz for me, though. I was still driving my mailcar around the West, and I remember the thrill of putting my Hot Press sticker in the back window ("Keeping Ireland Safe for Rock 'n' roll"). It was an amazing time of awakening to everything: music festivals, U2, making connections with politics etc. The value of Hot Press, in my view, was that it helped open up a new frontier in Ireland journalism, to enable a celebration not just of rock ‘n’ roll but of the things rock ‘n’ roll was about.

It tried to do this in the language of rock ‘n’ roll, with the attitudes of rock ‘n’ roll.

We were trying to replicate in print the spirit of the music we loved. I never felt that we were in the business of embracing international values. We were, to a degree, heavily influenced by UK music papers like the NME, Melody Maker etc, but really our objective was to produce a music paper that, unlike the ones that preceded Hot Press, was not shite. Hot Press was very much an Irish paper – most of the time anyway – seeking to promote and celebrate local music, and there was a strong sense of the inter-connectedness of roots Irish music and rock ‘n’ roll”.

He started out with Hot Press, back in 1981, although he had had a couple of pieces published before that, the first in January 1978. Working as a railway clerk in Westport and, later, Galway, and sending pieces in on spec, publication of his submitted pieces was sporadic, so he decided to give it one last go and learn to type, wrongly thinking this the critical issue.

He then wrote a review of a band called Bagatelle – who were big at the time – and the following issue had a review of them, but by the late Bill Graham, their chief writer at the time! He gave up after that, but six months later got a letter from the editor, Niall Stokes, saying he liked the stuff he was submitting and wondered if he would write some more.

We move on to talk about one of the biggest events of John’s Hot Press career. In 1984, an interview Waters conducted with then Fianna Fail leader Charles Haughey caused a storm of controversy, when the expletive-strewn interview was published in the magazine. The magazine reproduced the interview verbatim, with all of the colourful language Haughey used himself. John tells us what it was like in the eye of that storm.

“After the 1982 general election, I proposed interviewing Michael D Higgins (now President Higgins), who, if memory serves, had just lost his Dáil seat. I’d been very interested in the trend in the UK music papers, particularly the NME, to carry lengthy political articles and interviews – usually with leftwing figures like Tony Benn, Ken Livingstone, and so forth.

So I proposed Michael D. Initially, Niall Stokes resisted the idea, but eventually he came back to me and gave the go-ahead. So I wrote to Michael D and went to interview him in Galway. It wasn’t a great interview – my fault entirely.

Michael D talked non-stop for about four hours and I had no idea how to control or edit the material, so the finished interview was all over the place.

But it was still a great success, being the first of its kind, and Niall – immediately afterwards – hired Michael D as a columnist.”

For Waters, it was the start of political interviewing. After that he did people like Gerry Adams, Noel Browne, Sean MacBride, and also ‘cultural’ figures like Big Tom, Mike Murphy and the late John Feeney.

He says: “Niall and I planned the interviews fairly carefully, developing a kind of ‘agenda’ as we went along. I was still working fulltime down West, driving my father’s mailcar, but Niall and I would talk on the phone for hours on end, and we had by then a shared sense of what we wanted.

The idea was to ‘get under the skin’ of people who were well known in a certain context, to talk to them about different things than they’d normally be heard speaking about. The rock ‘n’ roll part was in the questions, with the idea of bringing the sensibility of the music to a variety of well-known or powerful figures. It wasn’t always successful, but the Charles Haughey interview probably came close to achieving the objective we began with. By that time – late 1984 – I had moved to Dublin. The interview was planned as ‘another side of Charlie Haughey’. We’d planned it for a long time, and Niall had been negotiating with his press secretary PJ Mara for perhaps a year or more. Eventually, as I outlined the introduction to the interview, we were summoned to Leinster House, where Haughey, you might say, firstly interviewed us and then agreed to do the interview some days later.

“In retrospect, it seemed that there were some crossed wires, but to this day I’m not sure

where the misunderstanding entered in. We assumed that the interview would be all on record.

I had a tape recorder the size of Leitrim, so there was no way he could have missed it. But I can’t deny that, as I was leaving, his parting words about calling him next week for ‘some direct quotes’ gave me pause for thought. At that point, I began to suspect that, if I went along with this, the interview was kaput – we’d have pages of the usual meanderings about Gaelic chieftains and our vibrant national culture. So I went AWOL for a few days and wrote up the interview, only reappearing at the very last minute on a Sunday night, just before print deadline.”

Niall Stokes read the interview and told Waters “That’s fine, John’. We said very little else.

We knew what we had. The reaction afterwards was pure nonsense – loads of pompous journalists going on about, on the one hand, Haughey’s terrible tongue, and on the other about my appalling breach of journalistic conventions. It’s all there on the record and is for the most part quite risible. There was a woeful commotion for a week or so. I kept out of it and let Niall do the batting for Hot Press. I think it’s important to emphasise that we saw ourselves as complete outsiders in the Irish media and therefore not bound by any of the agreed conventions. There was a great deal of talk going around afterwards, but mostly, I believe, this betrayed the degree of envy the interview provoked in the media mainstream”.

In 1985 John became editor of In Dublin, after only being a fulltime journalist for one year which was quite a meteoric step.

John tells me how it felt: “It was very strange. I'd been a reader and admirer of In Dublin since the time it was edited by Colm

John pictured with Catherine Gilmartin during the Erris Festival of Words this Summer.

Tobin. I used to drive to Roscommon every second weekend to try to get a copy, because it wasn't available in Castlerea. Now, here I was, editing it! It seemed bizarre, and me just up form the country. The circulation had fallen pretty dramatically, and there were many institutional and cultural problems with the magazine. But we had a very successful couple of years, bringing the circulation up to its highest ever. It was a remarkable time to be involved in what was really a very political magazine. We saw ourselves as rivals to Magill, and indeed were wiping the floor with them at that stage”.

The move to Magill saw John following in the footsteps of Fintan O'Toole and Colm Toibin.

Charlie Haughey outside his home Looking back, that seemed like an exciting period in Irish person or mankind. Everything journalism. John agrees: “Yes, It is about everything else”. was completely different to Waters’ incisive analysis of an today. We had a total tabula rasa.

We were making it up as we went Irish cultural identity has marked many of his best known writings – along. The mainstream media particularly Jiving at the were deeply conservative and Crossroads, his autobiographical dull beyond belief. We saw evaluation of the evolution of ourselves as counter-cultural, Irishness. and not hidebound by any As somebody who grew up in conventions or rules. But Magill the London Irish community, I am was not a great period for me, curious to know what he makes mainly because of the way Magill of us. Many people from that was being run, in effect as a cash environment have grown up with cow to support the ailing Sunday a sense of neither-one-thing-norTribune, which at the time was the-other about them. John is controlled also by Vincent sympathetic.

Browne. Vincent was in his early “Few races in history have stages of world domination at the acquired such a fluid sense of time, and was losing interest in themselves”, he begins. “I think Magill, and yet he couldn't leave the problem you suffer from is us alone to get on with things. I more of a sense of 'not owning' a left after less than a year”. place - by which I mean a Over the years, Waters has spiritual place – in Ireland, which amassed a sizeable bibliography – is something Irish people have with books covering a wide range subtly and sneakily caused you to of topics, political, socio-cultural feel. But you do have a place. and all points in between. A Ireland belongs to you too. Have recurring theme which connects a read of what I wrote about them all is an analysis of their Shane MacGowan in Feckers. He, underlying Irishness. It seems that this is his primary fascination and Martin McDonagh – and Martin's brother John with his last – defining the essence of our film Calvary – have shown that racial psyche. John says “In a the gaze on Ireland of what I call sense, but only as an example of the ‘intimate outsider’ is far something that is universal. I'm more truthful and penetrating Irish, was born and raised in than the eye of the alleged Ireland, so therefore that's my native. You people see the things window onto these questions, we miss, or dismiss. Ireland has a which affect everyone. I see it as great way about seeming to make being about specificity, people feel welcome while particularity, rather than about jealously guarding the virtue of Irishness per se. But, yes, those its supposed indigenicity. Don't were my themes in those days – buy it. Stake your own claim. If the early 1990s in particular. you don't, someone else will”.

Later I moved into other areas, As well as an array of books, but I tend to come back to the John has also written a number core questions of human of plays, although his last one identity”. was over fifteen years ago. He John says he does not have a explains the delay: “Writing favourite subject when writing fictional works is a different thing as he sees everything as being entirely to writing journalism or connected. “There's no line commentary or reflections on between rock 'n' roll and actually existing reality. You need religion. The music started out lots of time and space to remove rooted in Gospel, Soul, Blues, yourself from the babble of the Country, Folk, all of which are everyday political world. When essentially religious forms in my daughter Roisin came along in that they're about the fundamental state of the human 1996, I found that I needed to

in Kinsealy choose between my role as her father and some aspects of my work. So I shelved the idea of writing plays, and haven't yet gotten back to it. I think the time is coming when I will return to writing for the theatre, whether the theatre likes it or not! It's my favourite kind of writing, mainly because of the process of rehearsing and putting on a play, which is an extraordinarily exciting one. There were also some 'issues' about the BBC, for which I write a couple of radio plays. I won the Richard Imison Award in 1996 for my first radio play, Holy Secrets, which was broadcast on Radio 4, but they never accepted any of the proposals for plays I made afterwards, so I moved on. Now my daughter is grown up, and the mainstream media is in meltdown, I'm seriously starting to look again at returning to these areas. Let's see”. Waters fans will be delighted to hear this.

John says that he enjoys the freedom that writing fiction – in the plays – allows. “It’s a different freedom to what’s available in other kinds of writing,” he explains. “And it’s hard to mix the different disciplines. For fiction, you have to be able to ignore the world for months on end, and this isn't so easy when you have a column deadline.”

John Waters has come to occupy an extraordinary position in Irish life. As a playwright, author and columnist, his observations of Irish life and Irishness has provoked, enlightened and entertained for over thirty years. Clearly a man with a lot still to say, he will surely be around for a long time to come.

John Waters will be the Guest Speaker at the annual Kennedy Open Lecture in The Newman Institute, Ballina, on 20th November at 8pm. More information: 096 72066.

Page 29 Mature Living

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Travel

Facts Westport town was designed in the Mid 1700's by James Wyatt, in a Georgian Architectural Style. The town layout follows medieval principles of 13th century urban design featuring landmarks of the Carrowbeg River, tree lined malls, pretty colourful streets, iconic monuments of the Clock and the Octagon as well as the nearby Westport House & Pirate Adventure Park.

Westport has an extensive awards portfolio, in recent weeks Westport was named as one of the Top 10 Finalists of the Foodie Destinations. Not only was Westport crowned The Best Place to Live in Ireland

by The Irish Times, it was also accredited as Ireland's Tidiest Large Town 2012, Ireland's Best Kept Large Town 2012 and the Retail Excellence Best Town in Ireland!

Page 28 Mature Living

W

estport is one of Ireland’s major tourist destinations. Located at the south-east corner of Clew Bay the town has many picturesque features, most notably its tree-lined, flower decorated, boulevard known as The Mall with several stone bridges over the Carrowbeg river. Westport is host to an array of sights and activities that will appeal to the entire family. Young or old will enjoy it as it is small enough to get around by foot. If historic buildings are your thing the town itself is heavily influenced with some wonderful Georgian architecture.

It is renowned for its

spectacular scenery and deepsea fishing and angling. It also sports a world-class golf course, guided walks, horseback riding, and is in close proximity to Connemara, Achill, Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick.

On a recent visit we spent our two nights in the Westport Coast hotel and we could not have asked for a better hotel.

Just a short stroll from the famed Westport House it had everything that a visitor could wish for. We found the staff and the hotel facilities to be fantastic. The reception staff were very welcoming and friendly. After a day touring Westport House and sampling the delights the foodfare had

to offer it was great to spend time in the swimming pool & leisure facilities.

The room we stayed in was a superior family room, which had a double and single bed in main area of room, it also had a wee living room area with another single bed and couch.

To have that little area to relax when kids went to bed was a godsend. Breakfast on both mornings was a real treat with as much as one could eat.

If looking for a vibrant weekend break, a family fun holiday or a leisurely retreat, look no further than Westport, Co. Mayo which has a host of year round activities, adventure races, festivals, as

well as some 50 bustling pubs and restaurants - it's the Irish town where something is always going on.

It is no wonder why this coastal town is one of Ireland's most popular holiday destinations, for all walks of life.

The Great Western Greenway The Great Western Greenway is a recent addition to Westport's attractions which features 42km of an off road cycling and walking trail which captures some of the most breathtaking views of Clew Bay and dramatic mountain scenery along the

renowned Westport to Achill railway which was closed in 1937.

The Greenway passes through picturesque villages of Newport and Mulranny where services and collection points area available.

The famous pilgrimage mountain of Croagh Patrick, known locally as "the Reek", lies some 10 km westof the town near the villages of Murrisk and Lecanvey. The mountain offers a striking backdrop to thetown. The church on the summit can just be made out with the naked eye from Westport.

Westport is nestled around the shores of Clew Bay which hosts 365 islands and inlets off (an

island foreach day of the year!). The bay is best seen from the summit of Croagh Patrick on a clear day or on the main approach to Westport via the N4 Castlebar Road.

Westport House & Gardens Westport is home to Westport House & Gardens which was once was home to the pirate queen Grace O'Malley, in the mid-to-late 16th century. The house stands today as Ireland's most beautiful historic home and is a popular visitor attraction.

There magnificent big house is now owned and operated by The Browne Family, direct

descendants of Grace O' Malley. The House has an abundance of original artefacts, artwork and treasures that will fascinate all culture-vultures with a total of 30 rooms on show. The story of the people behind the house is equally fascinating as the house itself with a history of pirates, slave emancipators and pioneers; it couldn't be anything but riveting! For over 300 years, the Browne's have worked passionately to preserve this beautiful piece of Irish heritage and the story of this commitment is told throughout the house in guided and self-guided tours, 5 permanent exhibitions and reading materials.

Top Westport Things to do: Climb Croagh Patrick Visit Westport House, Gardens & Pirate Adventure Park Cycle the Great Western Greenway cycle trail from Westport to Achill Explore Clew Bay with some water based activities offered by The Adventure Islands Indulge in a Spa treatment at one of the many award winning Spa's Get your adrenaline pumping with some Adventure Activities such as Zorbing and Zipwiring by Adventure West Visit one of the many Blue Flag Beaches in the surrounding areas such as Bertra, Carrowmore, Carrowniskey Green Coast Beach Sample a pint & enjoy nightly

entertainment in the famous Matt Molloy's Bar Enjoy a round of Golf at the Westport Championship Golf Course Enjoy a fun visit to the new Westport Activity & Skate Park Free kids fun at either of the two playgrounds (one is located in the town centre and the other is located on the outskirts of town on the Golf Course Road) Swim & Gym in the town centre 4* Westport Leisure Park Drive to Achill Island (accessible by bridge) and follow the breathtaking Atlantic Drive trail Visit the Museum of Country Life located on the outskirts of neighbouring Castlebar

Page 29 Mature Living

Travel

Facts Westport town was designed in the Mid 1700's by James Wyatt, in a Georgian Architectural Style. The town layout follows medieval principles of 13th century urban design featuring landmarks of the Carrowbeg River, tree lined malls, pretty colourful streets, iconic monuments of the Clock and the Octagon as well as the nearby Westport House & Pirate Adventure Park.

Westport has an extensive awards portfolio, in recent weeks Westport was named as one of the Top 10 Finalists of the Foodie Destinations. Not only was Westport crowned The Best Place to Live in Ireland

by The Irish Times, it was also accredited as Ireland's Tidiest Large Town 2012, Ireland's Best Kept Large Town 2012 and the Retail Excellence Best Town in Ireland!

Page 28 Mature Living

W

estport is one of Ireland’s major tourist destinations. Located at the south-east corner of Clew Bay the town has many picturesque features, most notably its tree-lined, flower decorated, boulevard known as The Mall with several stone bridges over the Carrowbeg river. Westport is host to an array of sights and activities that will appeal to the entire family. Young or old will enjoy it as it is small enough to get around by foot. If historic buildings are your thing the town itself is heavily influenced with some wonderful Georgian architecture.

It is renowned for its

spectacular scenery and deepsea fishing and angling. It also sports a world-class golf course, guided walks, horseback riding, and is in close proximity to Connemara, Achill, Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick.

On a recent visit we spent our two nights in the Westport Coast hotel and we could not have asked for a better hotel.

Just a short stroll from the famed Westport House it had everything that a visitor could wish for. We found the staff and the hotel facilities to be fantastic. The reception staff were very welcoming and friendly. After a day touring Westport House and sampling the delights the foodfare had

to offer it was great to spend time in the swimming pool & leisure facilities.

The room we stayed in was a superior family room, which had a double and single bed in main area of room, it also had a wee living room area with another single bed and couch.

To have that little area to relax when kids went to bed was a godsend. Breakfast on both mornings was a real treat with as much as one could eat.

If looking for a vibrant weekend break, a family fun holiday or a leisurely retreat, look no further than Westport, Co. Mayo which has a host of year round activities, adventure races, festivals, as

well as some 50 bustling pubs and restaurants - it's the Irish town where something is always going on.

It is no wonder why this coastal town is one of Ireland's most popular holiday destinations, for all walks of life.

The Great Western Greenway The Great Western Greenway is a recent addition to Westport's attractions which features 42km of an off road cycling and walking trail which captures some of the most breathtaking views of Clew Bay and dramatic mountain scenery along the

renowned Westport to Achill railway which was closed in 1937.

The Greenway passes through picturesque villages of Newport and Mulranny where services and collection points area available.

The famous pilgrimage mountain of Croagh Patrick, known locally as "the Reek", lies some 10 km westof the town near the villages of Murrisk and Lecanvey. The mountain offers a striking backdrop to thetown. The church on the summit can just be made out with the naked eye from Westport.

Westport is nestled around the shores of Clew Bay which hosts 365 islands and inlets off (an

island foreach day of the year!). The bay is best seen from the summit of Croagh Patrick on a clear day or on the main approach to Westport via the N4 Castlebar Road.

Westport House & Gardens Westport is home to Westport House & Gardens which was once was home to the pirate queen Grace O'Malley, in the mid-to-late 16th century. The house stands today as Ireland's most beautiful historic home and is a popular visitor attraction.

There magnificent big house is now owned and operated by The Browne Family, direct

descendants of Grace O' Malley. The House has an abundance of original artefacts, artwork and treasures that will fascinate all culture-vultures with a total of 30 rooms on show. The story of the people behind the house is equally fascinating as the house itself with a history of pirates, slave emancipators and pioneers; it couldn't be anything but riveting! For over 300 years, the Browne's have worked passionately to preserve this beautiful piece of Irish heritage and the story of this commitment is told throughout the house in guided and self-guided tours, 5 permanent exhibitions and reading materials.

Top Westport Things to do: Climb Croagh Patrick Visit Westport House, Gardens & Pirate Adventure Park Cycle the Great Western Greenway cycle trail from Westport to Achill Explore Clew Bay with some water based activities offered by The Adventure Islands Indulge in a Spa treatment at one of the many award winning Spa's Get your adrenaline pumping with some Adventure Activities such as Zorbing and Zipwiring by Adventure West Visit one of the many Blue Flag Beaches in the surrounding areas such as Bertra, Carrowmore, Carrowniskey Green Coast Beach Sample a pint & enjoy nightly

entertainment in the famous Matt Molloy's Bar Enjoy a round of Golf at the Westport Championship Golf Course Enjoy a fun visit to the new Westport Activity & Skate Park Free kids fun at either of the two playgrounds (one is located in the town centre and the other is located on the outskirts of town on the Golf Course Road) Swim & Gym in the town centre 4* Westport Leisure Park Drive to Achill Island (accessible by bridge) and follow the breathtaking Atlantic Drive trail Visit the Museum of Country Life located on the outskirts of neighbouring Castlebar

Page 29 Mature Living

Advice for protecting your eyes

A

re you holding the newspaper farther away from your eyes than you used to? Join the crowd—age can bring changes that affect your eyesight.

Some changes are more serious than others, but for many problems, there are things you can do to protect your vision. The key is to have regular eye exams so you can spot problems early.

Steps to Protect Your Eyesight Have your eyes checked regularly by an optometrist.

This is the only way to find some common eye diseases that have no early signs or symptoms. If you wear glasses, your prescription should be checked, too. See your doctor regularly to check for diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure. These diseases can cause eye problems if not controlled or treated.

See an optometrist right away if you: ▪ Suddenly cannot see or everything looks blurry ▪ See flashes of light ▪ Have eye pain ▪ Experience double vision

▪ Have redness or swelling of your eye or eyelid Protect your eyes from too much sunlight by wearing sunglasses that block ultraviolet (UV) radiation and a hat with a wide brim when you are outside.

Healthy habits, like not smoking, making smart food choices, and maintaining a healthy weight can also help protect your vision.

Common Eye Problems The following common eye problems can be easily treated.

But, sometimes they can be signs of more serious issues.

▪ Presbyopia is a slow loss of ability to see close objects or small print. It is normal to have this problem as you get older.

People with presbyopia often have headaches or strained, tired eyes. Reading glasses usually fix the problem.

▪ Floaters are tiny specks or “cobwebs” that seem to float across your vision. You might see them in well-lit rooms or outdoors on a bright day.

Floaters can be a normal part of aging. But, sometimes they are a sign of a more serious eye problem such as retinal

EYE CARE

by Rachel Murray Eyecare - Tobergal Lane, Sligo • Tel: 071-9142860 detachment. If you see many new floaters and/or flashes of light, see an optometrist right away.

▪ Tearing (or having too many tears) can come from being sensitive to light, wind, or temperature changes, or having a condition called dry eye.

Wearing sunglasses may help. So might eye drops. Sometimes tearing is a sign of a more serious eye problem, like an infection or a blocked tear duct.

▪ Eyelid problems can result from different diseases or conditions.

Common eyelid problems include red and swollen eyelids, itching, tearing, and crusting of eyelashes during sleep. These problems may be caused by a condition called blepharitis and treated with warm compresses and gentle eyelid scrubs.

Remember, eyesight is one of the most precious gifts we have, so look after it.

If you feel you need an eye examination or haven’t had one recently contact Rachel Murray Eyecare on 0719142860 or simply call in to make an appointment.

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

Chem­Dry© Sligo, Carpet and upholstery cleaning service

Open Mon-Fri 9am to 6pm Sat 9am to 12 noon

Succcsssfully cleaning carpet and upholstery in County Sligo since 1989.

La Maison Chic

L

a Maison Chic is proud to bring you in exclusivity the Louise De Vignoles Atelier candles & fragranced wax bars, they are all hand made in Galway. A recipe so old it dates back to 1927. their method of double wicking our candles uses only highly fragranced blended waxes and is designed to burn like two candles at once thus giving you a high scent surround in a shorter period of time. De Vignoles luxury candles and wax bars are designed to embrace scent. The Christmas Eve in Galway candle is undeniably one of the must have gifts this Christmas. Fill your surroundings with the undeniable echos

Page 34 Mature Living

of aroma, all in exclusivity at La Maison Chic, 11 lower abbeygate street, Galway City 091530694 www.lamaisonchic.ie

Give your carpets and upholstery a chance of a second life by calling Chem­Dry© Sligo.

NOW....071­9143519 and we will rejuvenate them for you.

We also clean and seal "les and grou"ng (walls and floors of bathrooms, halls, kitchens, shower rooms and pa"os) Call 071­9143519 for advice, consulta"on and quota"on

It’s not too early to book for Christmas now!!

323 Ferndale, Cartron Point, Sligo • Serving all County Sligo.

All franchises are independently owned and operated.

7th SON FAITH HEALER AIDAN WRYNNE Mohill, Co Leitrim

www.faithhealer.ie SLIGO AND BUNDORAN is now attending

EVERY THURSDAY

ALSO HOLDING CLINCS IN ROSCOMMON TOWN, BALLAGHADERREEN & LEITRIM

Aidan is also available at his home every Monday and Thursday at Mohill, Co Leitrim Clinic times & venues available at www.faithhealer.ie or contact Aidan at 087 2423405 for an appointment 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

For Parts and Service Call: David 096-79785 or 086-3859348

North West Windows

Extend your home and summer with one of our conservatories

Suitable for most bungalows

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design features

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• 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

Increase window and door security ask about our window and door jammers

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Aluminimum, PVC-U Windows, Doors & Conservatories Unit 4, Abbey Business Park, Ardnaree, Ballina, Co. Mayo Tel: 096-25514 / 096-75521 / 086-8171442 tahennigan@eircom.net

This Winter & Spring at the Falls Hotel & Spa Active Retired Winter & Spring Getaways At the heart of the Burren and The Wild Atlantic Way

€179

per person - No single supplement!

Stay Midweek for 3 night’s Dinner and B&B (Subject to availability)

For more details call 065-7071004 • www.fallshotel.ie

Christmas Glitz & Glamour

You’ll find all things sparkly at Ardcarne Garden Centre

T

he Christmas shop at Ardcarne Garden Centre has become legendary for its inspiring range of decorations and lights chosen from the latest international collections.

These are timeless decorations you will treasure for many years and will bring back cherished family memories every Christmas.

Tree Trend One of the big trends of recent years is investing in an artificial Christmas tree.

The quality and life-like appearance of the trees at Ardcarne Garden Centre is testament to their popularity and you can choose from up to 20 different styles in a range of sizes to suit all rooms and budgets.

All the trees have hinged branches, which means they are easy to assemble and take down and best of all - you will always have your ideal tree every year, just the day you need it!

Christmas Gifts for Everyone There are plenty of Christmas gift ideas for all the family at Ardcarne Garden Centre, whether they are green fingered or not! This year look our for a selection of great value books and games from House of Marbles, Local interest cards and calendars from Willow Design, a range of Heritage Irish apple trees, wind chimes, colourful planted pots, tools, elegant Orchids and of course the ever popular Gift Tokens.

Latest Lights Christmas lights have also changed significantly in recent years, with the bright and energy efficient LEDs now firmly established as the favourite for decorating trees, garlands and other places around your home and garden.

Battery lights for illuminating small features, containers or plants have also become very popular and are ideal for garlands.

Modellers Corner - Enniskillen

S

ituated in the west end of Enniskillen, the Modellers Corner is well worth a visit if you enjoy modelling, or alternatively visit our website www.modellerscorner.co.uk or find us on facebook.com/modellerscorner.

Stocking radio controlled helicopters and planes for all ages and abilities as well as radio controlled cars and lorries and boats.If you wish to up-date your present radio-controlled systems there is a variety of speed controllers, batteries, chargers, se vos etc to choose from.

In the model railway department there is a vast range of Hornby, Bachmann and Feischmann in HO/OO, N gauge and garden railway. Many locomotives are now coming with Digital Command Control (DCC), this allows more realistic control over your layout and the option of sound and lights . DCC decoders are available separately to convert you present rolling stock.

A decoder fitting service is available.

There is also a good stock of Metcalfe kits and an extensive range scenic materials, including the realistic Woodland Scenics, to give your layout a professional finish.

With the long nights of the winter approaching, why not build something.

The Modellers Corner has a good range of plastic kits of all sizes and skills to everyone. Paints and glues also stocked. Scalextric sets and a range of cars are available. Maybe War Gaming is your interest, if so we stock

wargames from Games Workshop including Warhammer and Warhammer 40K. For the collectors there are diecast models of rally cars, lorries, buses, tractors and military vehicles in various scales. If you enjoy building from scratch there are many different materials available e.g. Balsa, plastic sheet, foam board, glues, paints, brushes and tools.

Not forgetting the ladies we have a Dolls House section comprised of dolls house kits, furniture, carpet, wallpaper and working lights. Open on Wednesdays during December.

Ardcarne Plantsplus Garden Centre Best Value Christmas Tree 7 ½ ft (was €139). Hinged branches for easy assembly & storage.

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Primroses

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a badge of themselves from 1980. Before leaving the group underwent test to determine their age including grip, vision, hearing balance, hormones, muscle strength etc. The group all spent a week living as if it was 30 years earlier. Everything going on around them was engineered to enable them to act as they had 30 yrs ago, subconsciously tricking themselves to believe they were younger. After 7 days, they took the same tests again…. and all had reversed their age by a minimum of 7-10 years and had a new lease of life. When asked to describe what had happened they reported forgetting they were older and as a result they physically grew younger.

Your beliefs determine how you age These experiments prove that your beliefs determine how you age. If you think and act old, you grow old prematurely, whereas when you think and act younger, you remain younger physically and mentally. That’s why people like Cliff Richards

You can think yourself younger by using your mind to trick your body into feeling and then becoming younger.

We all have three ages: Chronological or birth certificate age Biological age-the age of our organs Psychological age-the age we fee

W

hen we do young things laughing, dancing, having sex we send a message to our bodies that we are young and this slows down how we age. The younger you feel and act the more you lower your biological age. Our bodies age on their own timetable a runner aged 40 may have the

Page 40 Mature Living

heart and lungs of a 25 year old but the knees of a 55 year old. The least important age is your birth certificate age and its the one you need to pay the least attention to, how old you feel and how old you act are far more important if you want to grow older without growing old.

In 2010 Harvard psychologist Dr Ellen Langer took a group of celebrities to a retreat for a BBC programme. The retreat was furnished from 1980, all the magazines, radio shows and TV programmes were from the 80s and each person wore

and Keith Richards have aged in a rather unique way, because they are singers, dancing on stage and doing something youthful for a living they are seen as eternally young. Cliff Richards is called Peter Pan and Keith who should have aged terribly because of his abusive lifestyle proves that doing young things and thinking young thoughts is powerful enough to overcome the ageing effect of bad habits. Women who are very girly like Lulu and Goldie Hawn age differently because giggling, laughing and doing younger things keeps you younger. Girly thoughts and actions make you become and stay more girly.

Nelson Mandella spent 30 yrs in Jail with no access to good food or vitamins yet his passion for life kept him youthful alert and full of life. People in Japan with a different expectation of ageing age differently as do people who love exercise, embrace new technology and have an active life, they stay young for longer. Have you

noticed that those people who seem to love exercise, embrace new technology, love being with younger people and have an active social life are the people who tend to look young, vibrant and happy? That’s not a coincidence; it’s because they are doing the things they did when young. They get the added benefit of looking younger because that’s the way they feel (not the other way round).

Don’t use ageing language If you don’t want to age badly don’t use ageing language, don’t say ‘I’m too old to wear that, I can’t do that at my age’.

Instead of saying, ‘I look old’ which is seen by the mind as permanent change it to, ‘I look tired’ your mind accepts that tired is temporary and after sleep you’ll look younger. Using words like ‘knackered, past it, gaga, at my time of life, at my age’ cause your mind to accept that ageing and deteriorating are inevitable when that does not have to be the case.

Yourself Younger If you want to be part of the ‘new old age’ use words like youthful, vibrant, full of life and vitality. Your mind believes everything you tell it and acts on those words so if you say ‘I forgot it must be my age’ or ‘I am so cranky and tired I cant stay up late at my age’ you are allowing yourself to believe that the way you age is beyond your influence which is not true.

Instead remember that children forget things all the time and babies are cranky without enough sleep, its not your age so don’t attribute negative behaviours to your years.

Changing the words you use to describe yourself changes how you look and feel.

you can replicate what they do in order to replicate how they look and feel. You Can Be Younger is the culmination of everything that really does slow down ageing.

You can also trick your mind into staying young by continuing to learn new things throughout life. Doing new things and different things keeps your brain elastic, sharp and finelytuned. Professors in their 90s have brain neurons equal to professors of 30. We only age when we stop doing new things so embrace newness and change and you will stay mentally younger, this in turn keeps you physically younger. Our mind doesn’t age unless we stop using it. You can keep your memory and thinking sharp by reading your paper and doing crosswords on your iPad, use Skype, instagram and twitter as this will keep your mind in peak condition because anything new boosts your brainpower and slows down ageing.

Practice Neurobics We make new brain neurons when we practice Neurobics this simply means if you’re right handed hold your toothbrush and your TV remote your with your left hand, go upstairs leading with your left leg, when you use the ‘wrong’ hand or leg this makes new neurons boosting brain power. These simple tricks give you tangible results so that you age in ways that make others envy you.

It’s not enough to look younger we must feel younger too. A surgeon told me that some women who have facelifts look younger because of surgery, yet they cant even walk up the stairs because although they look young, inside they are ageing badly. Surgery and creams can’t delay ageing but using your mind power can condition your mind can to delay ageing. The body must always act in a way that matches your thinking changing your thoughts, beliefs and expectations about what ageing is sends a message to your body that slows down ageing. Every thought you think has a physical effect on your body- think of eating and you create digestive enzymes. Thinking about and seeing your self as younger sends a message to your body that is replicated in every cell, conditioning (tricking) your mind to delay ageing.

You can take control of how you age it’s easy, simple and painless, use my new research to change your perception of what ageing is. Change negative patterns, and habits that accelerate ageing by making small adjustments that give you lasting results and can add many active years to your life.

If you want to look and feel younger you don’t have to spend a fortune to hold onto your looks just change your mind and this time next year you can be physically younger than you are today.

We live in exciting times where being 50 means you are only halfway through your life. We don’t dread getting old we dread losing our youth and vitality. You can grow older without growing old while adding years to your lifespan.

Women like Jane Fonda, Mary Berry and Catherine Deneuve are showing us ‘the new old age’ as they refuse to conform to what ageing is. People who age fantastically well leave clues, I have spent 18 years studying those clues so that

Page 41 Mature Living

Feature

Hope House celebrates 21 Years

Gary Sheils Deputy Director, Attracta Canny, An Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Dolores Duggan

I

n 1992, Attracta Canny and Dolores Duggan, both Mercy Sisters , from their personal and professional experiences as teachers, social workers and addiction counsellors, saw the need for a Residential Addiction Treatment Centre for the West of Ireland.

The then Bishop of Achonry, Dr Thomas Flynn, was approached with the proposal as he had recently purchased

the Convent in Foxford. After some time, research and consultation, he kindly offered the Convent as the location for the new unit.

A Board of Management, with varied and valued skills was established at the end of 1992.

In March of the following year, planning permission was sought and gained to renovate the building and fundraising began.

The invaluable financial

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”

Page 42 Mature Living

assistance and support of the Sisters of Mercy Western Province, ensured that the dream of opening and sustaining an Addiction Treatment Centre in the West of Ireland would become a reality.

Works commenced in May 1993 and were completed in September 1993.

On 14th September 1993, Hope House Addiction Centre opened its doors to its very first residents.

21 years later Hope House has firmly established itself as one of Irelands Leading Addiction Centres providing high standards of professional addiction treatment to hundreds of addicted people and their family members every year. Hope House prides itself on the quality of its treatment and care and is accredited by CHKS, an international

healthcare accrediting body.

Hope House has been the proud recipient of many awards and accolades over the past 21 years including the AIB Enterprise Award, the AIB Better Ireland Award and the Meitheal Award, amongst others.

Hope House provides a comprehensive addiction treatment programme to addicted people and their families, comprising an initial 30 Day Residential Rehabilitation Programme for the addicted person, followed by 2 years of Continuing Care for the addicted person and their partner/spouse provided

by Hope House Counselling staff on an outpatient basis.

Hope House also provides a range of additional supports including dedicated Outpatient Family Programme, Relapse Group, special Women’s Group for former residents and a Prescribed Drugs Group.

To celebrate its 21st Birthday and 21 years of Recovery, a “Walk of Hope” took place from Hope House on 13th September 2014. The walk, led by An Taoiseach Enda Kenny was attended by hundreds of people, including many former residents and their families.

Ageing Parents

The difficulty of having ageing parents of their health should be the top priority. A nursing home will provide a safe environment in which to live: an environment where round the clock support and care is available. Where full time care is not yet wanted or needed, it may well be an option to look at respite care for short periods to allow the carer in the relationship time to recharge both physically and mentally, knowing that their partner is well cared for in a safe environment. It may well allow them to spend quality time with other family members without the pressure of caring responsibilities. External care does not necessarily have to be full time, but respite care may well enable the cared for parent to effectively live at home for longer. Caring takes an incredible physical as well as mental toll on the carer.

W

atching your parents growing older is never an easy task. But have you ever stopped to think about how your parents themselves feel – especially if left to care for the other?

Seeing the health, capabilities and senses of the man or woman you love deteriorating right before your eyes can cause a huge amount of strain: emotionally, physically and financially. Illnesses like dementia can change a person completely, while a decline in physical health can cause frustration and a complete change of lifestyle.

If your parents are getting on a bit, with one healthy and one suffering from declining health, the healthy parent may well have told you that they are coping just fine. However, stop and think about the changes that need to be made. Watching the person they’ve committed their life to suffer and struggle will be stressful. The additional care and support will take its toll on sleep, health and social lives. The strain of having to put someone else first at all times may not only cause

emotional stress, but could also lead to health problems for your other parent.

Can the healthy parent take care of every need?

It may also be that the healthy parent can’t take care of every

single need. How easy can it be for an older person to bathe and clothe the other? What about ensuring that have the right medication, and are taking it at the right times? How will they cope with slips, falls or sudden changes in health?

To reduce some of the strain and ensure that the cared-for parent is being looked after to the best possible degree, a nursing home may well be the answer. While it will no doubt be difficult for your parents to choose to live separately, each

There are many different types of care out there, with support for those who have age-related illnesses, a disability or are simply too frail to cope at home without 24 hour support. Rather than adapting their home to cope with the physical demands of ageing, your parents will be able to choose a nursing home that is fully equipped for these needs. While living apart will be tough, the knowledge that their partner is in the best possible hands will remove much of the strain, stress and worry caused to your other parent.

Page 43 Mature Living

Plumbing & Heating

10 tips to save on your heating bill this winter

M&K Oils Lecarrow, Strandhill, Co. Sligo

Telephone: 071-9168830 mkoils@hotmail.com Home Heating Oil, Agri Oil, Agri Diesel, Auto Diesel and Solid Fuels

G

etting your attic and walls insulated can save you up to 30% on your heating bills, but not everyone can afford it. So we’ve come up with 10 simple, effective and cheap ways to save money on your bills. Here are a few tips that are free and it’s just a matter of being more energy conscious.

1. Adjust your thermostat By turning your thermostats down by just one degree, you can save up to 3% off your energy bill.

2. Use your central heating wisely Make sure your heating is switched off when you are out of the house.

Also, most of us forget to turn the radiators off in rooms we don’t use.

This can impact your energy bill.

3. Keep the radiators efficient We all know that ‘bleeding’ the radiators helps them run more efficiently by getting rid of the locked air. But who has the time to

check? That’s why we love this ‘Deaerator’ gadget for only €10.99 - it automatically keeps the air out of the radiators, making sure they are as efficient (and warm) as possible.

4. Insulate your windows Plenty of heat is lost through the windows of your home so remember to draw the curtains at night. Also, insulate the drafts around windows and doors (top tip: you can find the drafts easily by holding a lit incense stick around the window to find out where the cold air is coming in).

5. Install a chimney balloon This simple gadget will keep the drafts out and the heat in your room.

All you have to do is inflate it up the chimney and it keeps the heat in nicely (please note this is not suitable for gas fires). Cost: €31.99 6. Reflect the heat back from your radiators A radiator reflector works by sending the heat from the back of your

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CAVITY WALL INSULATION Bonded Bead

radiator into the room, rather than against the wall, meaning you get the maximum impact from your heating system. Cost: €20.94 (you could just use this in your main living area) 7. Draft excluders Sometimes the old fashioned stuff is the best and we really like this draft excluder from Amazon. It fits snugly around the door and it can be cut to shape. Cost: €6.99 8. Plastic coat your windows If you can’t afford double (or triple glazing) put plastic film on those windows (€6 covers three windows).

This will curb drafts and keep windows from rattling.

9. Keep heating vents clear Vents blocked by rugs and furniture prevent heated air from circulating efficiently.

10. Use heaters wisely In just one hour, a good heater should have done enough to heat the roomturn it off when it has the job done.

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The Bands of our Showband Era Memories

T

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 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 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 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...

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

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

The Johnny Flynn Showband (1940's - 1972) Article by John Baird and Gerry Gallagher

T

he town of Tuam in Co. Galway, has earned a reputation as “the Showband capital of Ireland� because at one time in the early 60's, no less than six top class showbands called the well known market town home. The best known of these was the Johnny Flynn Showband, a musical combination with its roots firmly in the tradition of the Tuam Brass Band.

This is not surprising as Tuam's bandmaster, Danny Kelly (senior) was a member of the original Johnny Flynn Dance band.

The band's story starts long before the era of the showbands. Back in the 1940's, The Johnny Flynn Dance Band traveled the length and breadth of the West of Ireland. With Johnny

Page 46 Mature Living

on accordion, the band could play the standard dance tunes of the day, as well as a wide variety of ceili, Dixieland and country music. This is one of the distinctions that allowed them to provide what dancers wanted, a trait the band would carry for the rest if its history. The band's reputation was second to none and it was a natural that when the showband boom hit, Johnny would be right there in the thick of things.

In 1958, Johnny cast aside the music stands and put together his first fully fledged "showband." The original lineup was: Johnny Flynn (organ/accordion), brothers Brendan Flynn (sax/clarinet) and Francie Flynn (bass), Danny Kelly (Jr.-trombone), Billy Potter (guitar), Frankie Hannon (drums), Ollie Maloney (trumpet) and Gerry Cronin (vocals).

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

Top singles - 1970

Lineup Back row l to r: Billy Kelly (RIP-trumpet), Francie Flynn (bass) and Pat Smyth (vocals). Middle row: Joe McIntyre (sax), Danny Kelly (trombone), Jimmy Harte (vocals), and Jim Dalton (RIP-guitar) Front: Frankie Hannon (RIP-drums), Johnny Flynn (RIP-keyboards) and Pete Creighton (guitar).

The band was an immediate success and even out drew the top bands in the West of Ireland. The band became one of the first five showbands to tour the United States in 1963. They toured America during the Lenten season, and while over there recorded a single featuring Gerry Cronin entitled You Took Her Off My Hands. It was never released here as the hole in the middle of the record was too large for a standard record player. You Took Her Off My

Hands (Now Please Take Her Off My Mind) / Hoots Mon Twist on Headline records. in New York, catalog number 1016.

In the early 60's, Ollie Maloney, Gerry Cronin and Billy Potter left to form the Ohio Showband. The Johnny Flynn Band continued to travel countrywide and had a huge following in the Northwest. More tours of the USA and trips to the UK were undertaken, and they took part in the New York St. Patrick's Day parade in 1963.

As like other bands there were many personnel changes but the line up that made the most impression on the recording scene was : Johnny and Francie Flynn, Frankie Hannon, Jim Dalton, Danny Kelly, Roy Donnelly, Joe McIntyre (Sax) , Billy Kelly (Trumpet), Pete Creighton (Guitar) and vocalist Pat Smyth who had a No. 1 hit with “The Black and Tan Gun” in 1966. This fine line up also recorded many singles and an album entitled “The Magnificent 7” which

covered much of the band's varied stage repertoire Like all the Tuam bands The Flynn Band featured many brass arrangements, this being their trademark and their varied dancing programme of pop, Dixieland, country, and ballads was well received by appreciative dancers.

They had in their enigmatic drummer Frankie “Flash” Hannon a superb drummer and showman and his rendering of Fats Domino numbers were showstoppers to

1. Dermot Hegarty & Plainsmen - 21 Years (Release) 2. Dana - All Kinds of Everything (Rex) 3. Margo & Country Folk - I'll Forgive and I'll Try To Forget 4. Gene Stuart & Mighty Avons - Before the Next Teardrop Falls 5. Big Tom & Mainliners - Sunset Years of Life (Emerald) 6. Brendan Shine - A Bunch of Violets Blue (Release) 7. Joe Dolan - You're Such A Good Looking Woman (Pye) 8. Gene Stuart & Mighty Avons - I'm Just Lukcky I Guess 9. Sean Dunphy & Hoedowners - The Old Fenian Gun (Dolphin) 10. Jim Tobin & Firehouse - This Is It (Honey) 11. Tommy Drennan & Monarchs - Little Boy Lost (Columbia) 12. Dermot Henry & Virginians - My Lovely Irish Rose (Ruby) 13. Jim O'Connor & Nevada - Christmas Time In Innisfree 14.

Larry Cunningham - Don't Let Me Cross Over (Release) 15. Times - Looking Through the Eyes of A Beautiful Girl 16. Brian Coll & Buckaroos - Give An Irish Girl To Me (Release) 17. Larry Cunningham - Mother the Quen of My Heart (Release) 18. Joe Dolan - It Makes No Difference (Pye) 19. Wolfe Tones - Slievenamon (Dolphin) 20. Freshmen - Halfway To Where (CBS) 21. Tommy Drennan & Monarchs - Love Is A Beautiful Song ( 22. Margo & Country Folk - Gradh Mo Chroi (Ruby) 23. Cotton Mill Boys - Silver Haired Daddy of Mine (Target) 24. Dickie Rock & Miami - When My Train Comes In (Pye) 25. Charlie Matthews & Royal Showband - Both Sides Now (Pye) 26. Red Hurley & Wheels - Isadora (Target) 27. Smokey Mountain Ramblers - But You Love Me Daddy (Ruby) 28. Art Supple & Victors - A Soldier's Farewell (Honey) 29. Gentry - Yellow River (Dolphin) 30. Roly Daniels - Take A Letter Maria (CBS) 31. Art Supple & Victors - Three Flowers (Honey) 32. Maxi Dick & Twink - Things You Hear About Me (Columbia) 33. Brendan O'Brien & Dixies - Tomorrow's Love (Honey) 34. Sean Dunphy & Hoedowners - The Old Refrain (Dolphin) 35. Sands - Walking In the Sun (Release) 36. Red Hurley & Wheels - Take Me Tonight (Target)

say the least.

In the early 1970's the end of the traditional showband line up was in sight, but Johnny Flynn continued on as The Johnny Flynn Sound until the end of 1972.

This great showband has left us with a host of memories and will never be forgotten. They were great musicians all: names like Mickey Eagleton, Mickey Devaney, Billy Mc

Glinchey, Patsy Haugh, Angelina Mc Donagh, Martin Murphy, and others were a part of this famous Showband.

Sadly Johnny Flynn died in 1996 preceded by Brendan Flynn, Billy Kelly, Frankie Hannon, Gerry Cronin, Ollie Maloney and more recently by Jim Dalton.

May all the deceased band members Rest in Peace.

Page 47 Mature Living

Food and Drink

For a fresh idea with pasta, try Greek salad Ingredients 300g fusilli pasta spirals – or you can use farfalle (butterflies) or penne (quill tubes) 225g bag prepared fresh baby spinach 250g punnet cherry tomatoes, halved 100g black olives (we bought kalamata from the deli counter) 200g feta cheese, broken into rough chunks 3 tbsp olive oil

Method Tip the fusilli into a large pan of boiling salted water and boil for 10 minutes. Throw in the spinach, stir well and boil for another 2 minutes.

Drain into a colander or sieve and leave to drip-dry.

Tip the tomatoes, olives and feta into a big bowl, grind lots of black pepper over and then drizzle with the olive oil.

Toss in the drained pasta and spinach, and let everyone help themselves.

Entertain the easy way with this quick-to-prepare rustic one-pot - just serve with crusty bread Prep: 20 mins / Cook: 1 hr, 10 mins Ingredients 800g medium-size potatoes, skin on, thinly sliced 4 large tomatoes, thinly sliced 1 aubergine, thinly sliced 4 garlic cloves, chopped 3 tbsp oregano leaves, plus extra for sprinkling 85g pitted Kalamata olives, halved 5 tbsp olive oil, plus a drizzle 100g feta cheese, crumbled 4 lamb steaks Method Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Layer up half the potato, tomato and aubergine in a baking dish, scattering with garlic, oregano and olives, and drizzling with oil and seasoning as you go.

Scatter over the feta, then repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used up.

Finish with potatoes and a little oil.

Bake for 50 mins or until the veg are tender (cover with foil if they’re getting too brown). Top with the lamb steaks, rubbing with a little more oil and seasoning. Bake for 15-20 mins more until the lamb is cooked. Allow to rest and cool a bit before scattering with oregano and serving with crusty bread.

Prep: 10 mins / Cook: 20 mins Ingredients 500g pack lean minced beef 1 large aubergine 50g pot 0% Greek yogurt 1 egg, beaten 3 tbsp parmesan, finely grated 400g can chopped tomatoes 4 tbsp sun-dried tomato purée 400g leftover boiled potatoes (or 350g/12oz uncooked weight boiled) Method Heat the grill to high. Brown the beef in

a deep ovenproof frying pan over a high heat for 5 mins. Meanwhile, prick the aubergine with a fork, then microwave on High for 3-5 mins until soft. Mix the yogurt, egg and parmesan together, then add a little seasoning.

Stir the tomatoes, purée and potatoes in with the beef with some seasoning and heat through. Smooth the surface of the beef mixture with the back of a spoon, then slice the cooked aubergine and arrange on top. Pour the yogurt mixture over the aubergines, smooth out evenly, then grill until the topping has set and turned golden.

Food and Drink

Cooking time Prep: 20 mins Cook: 10 mins Ingredients juice ½ lemon 2 tbsp olive oil 1 garlic clove, crushed 600g diced lamb leg For the salad 4 large tomatoes, chopped 1 cucumber, chopped large handful black olives, roughly chopped 200g pack feta cheese, crumbled bunch of mint, chopped Method Mix the lemon juice, olive oil and garlic in a mixing bowl. Pour half into a jug and set

aside for later. Add the lamb to the bowl, stir to coat, then thread onto 8 small skewers If using wooden skewers, soak in water for at least 30 mins before use. Pour over any excess marinade and let stand for 10 mins.

Meanwhile, mix all salad ingredients together, except the mint, and pour over the reserved lemon juice and oil mix.

Heat a griddle pan. Cook the lamb for 8 mins, turning every couple of mins, until cooked through and slightly charred.

Mix the mint through the salad and serve immediately with the kebabs.

Prep: 30 mins / Cook: 1 hr, 25 mins Ingredients 100g amaretti biscuits (or ginger or digestive biscuits) 85g toasted, flaked almonds 85g butter, melted 250ml Greek yogurt 750g mascarpone 2 eggs zest 1 lemon zest 1 orange 250ml honey (orange blossom is particularly good) fresh fruit, to serve Method Heat oven to 160C/140C fan/gas 3.

Crush the biscuits and most of the almonds inside a plastic food bag using a rolling pin. Mix with the butter, then press into the bottom of a deep, oval, 23cm dish (or something similar in size – a

roasting tin, baking dish or cake tin will work). Bake for 10 mins until crisp.

Stir or mash together the yogurt and mascarpone, then whisk in the eggs, one at a time. Stir in the lemon and orange zests, then stir in most of the honey, reserving about 3 tbsp. Spread over the biscuit base, cover loosely with foil and cook for 1 hr.

Remove the foil and cook for 15 mins more until lightly golden and the top is firm with just the slightest wobble in the middle. Leave to cool. Can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days.

To serve, scatter with almonds, drizzle over the remaining honey, and hand around fresh fruit to go with it.

Angelscope for November

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

Taur$s

Gemini

Cancer

Angel of self acceptance Aries, it's time to give yourself some love.

Stop procrastinating and putting your life on hold for when you reach that perfect weight/perfect man/perfect job! It's time you changed your perception.

You are so kind and generous to others and it's time now to give that generosity inward.

Lucky Day: 15th November Lucky colour: Green

Angel of Body care As we head toward the Christmas festivities, Taurins love being indulgent. Be gentle with your tummy this month Taurus. also, allow the compliments. I feel there is someone who is being over critical of your efforts. Try not to take this personally as it reflects more about their character than yours. The 15th brings a giggle!

Lucky Day: 28th November Lucky colour: White

Angel of soul mate For those single Gemini's, romance is in the air! A lingering look across a crowded room and a set of synchronicities see you checking you phone. For those in relationships, it's time for you both to play, have fun and indulge each other.

Sometimes life can get to serious and couples can get caught up in the drudgery of every day life. Keep the spark of passion alive!

Lucky Day: 23rd November Lucky colour: purple

Angel of Balance Have you been having a hard time with the word no recently? It looks as if you have been doing a balancing act this month cancer. It's time to set healthy boundaries in your life. Do not let another impose their views or opinions on you. You have a right to your own truth and also if you wish to reserve your opinion.

This is a month to be wise with your words......

Lucky Day: 30th November Lucky colour: Brown

Leo

Virgo

Libra

Scor!io

Angel of Answered prayer Make a wish, light your candle, for when the angel of answered prayer enters your spread, your angels are listening. This card also instructs you to project positivity and discard all negative fear based thoughts.

You are more powerful than you realise. Look for the signs, your angels are around. It maybe a feather, robin or a rainbow. Know that behind the scenes your angels are working over time for you!

Lucky Day: 25th November Lucky colour: lilac

Sagi"arious

Angel of enchantment Have you seen a shooting star? Seen the wonder in a child's face at a rainbow? Or breathed in the smell of a baby? Sometimes it's the simplest things that give the greatest pleasure. When was the last time you afforded yourself the gift of enchantment?

This card reminds you that joy and enchantment are not a luxury but a right.

You're made of stars and your very presence on this earth is a miracle to behold. Allow your eyes to see wonder once more.

Lucky Day: 17th November Lucky colour: Moss green

Angel of Music You are being given guidance lately through music and song. This can happen while you are driving, listening to the radio, iPod or TV. The song will always relate to a current issue you are facing presently.

Why don't you try it!

Ask your angels for help and wait for the song. Know that help is on it's way.

Lucky Day: 21st November Lucky colour: Gold

Capricor#

Guardian angel This beautiful card is a sign from your own guardian angel. A sign that they are always near and listening even as you read this.

Through the law of free will, we must invite our angels to help us. By doing so we give them permission to help and guide us in our lives. Angels have no free will, they do the will of god. This is also a sign that it may be your turn to ask for help instead of constantly giving it to others. Ask and you shall receive Lucky Day: 20th November Lucky colour: pink

Angel of Dreams You maybe receiving messages or symbols from your angels through your dreams recently. Some of your dreams will be hard to understand and others might be quite visual. Prophetic dreams you will always remember. This is your angels way of communicating with you. This card also advises you to get sufficient sleep as your energy levels this past month are not entirely what they should be. Placing a clear quartz crystal under your pillow will aid restful sleep.

Lucky Day: 19th November Lucky colour: Red

Angel of Playfulness It's time to get your glad rags on. Allow your inner fairy out to play! When was the last time you laughed so hard your belly ached? It's time to make plans, phone a friend, get out and interact. The joy of connecting with a like minded soul is a tonic for your own physical well being. Watch your problems dissolved as cheerful advice from a friend dissipates your anxiety. A problem shared is a problem halved. What are you waiting for!

Lucky Day: 29th November Lucky colour: Rub

Angel of Divine guidance Unseen forces are always at work around you. Angels look after our souls mission here on earth. They send us loving guidance and a nudge in the right direction. Their messages are so subtle and gentle that lives chaos can over ride those gut feelings. You are being guided to ask your angels to turn up your inner compass and Point you in the direction of your souls purpose here.

Lucky Day: 17th November Lucky colour: Silver

Angel of Nature it's time to get outside and breath in the fresh air and allow your spirit to settle in tranquility. Life rushes by at such a frenetic pace that we may become disconnected with our divine purpose. By taking time in nature (leaving mobile phones aside) we can allow our thoughts to settle thereby making space for positive guidance and divine intervention!

Lucky Day: 26th November Lucky colour: indigo

Aquarius

Pisces

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

Feature with Vincent Deane & Co. Solicitors, Castlebar, Co. Mayo

Law Relating To The Elderly

A

s we get older, our legal needs and requirements change. The law relating to the elderly is

not particularly different from the law as it applies to any individual but there are particular sensitivities

VINCENT DEANE & CO.

SOLICITORS Tel: 094 -9022980 094-9022981

Thomas Street, Castlebar, County Mayo Email: vincentdeane@eircom.net Fax: 094 9022 922

Deerpark Business Centre, Claregalway Road, Oranmore, Co. Galway

Tel: 091-795941

Email: law@obriensolicitors.ie Joan C. O’Brien, B.Comm., LL.B. John Keane, B.Comm., LL.B., Dip. Emp. Law

• Wills & Probate • Property Sales & Purchases • Personal Injury Claims* • Employment Law • Family Law • Court Attendances * In contentious business a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or portion of any award or settlement.

and urgencies which have to be addressed and dealt with.

It is a sad fact that any vulnerable group within Irish society can be exploited and unfortunately, abused. In addition, many elderly people need to make decisions about their lives which for a variety of reasons they have difficulty with, a solicitor can help. Whether that assistance takes the form of preventing abuse or advising concerning financial matters or making a will or completing any of the other documents that can help and protect a person in their later years, your solicitor will be more than happy to help.

Elder Abuse It is unfortunate fact that we are becoming more and more aware of serious avoidable problems that can happen to the elderly.

Physical abuse: Many elderly are now residing in nursing homes or are living their own. If they or a family member or friend feel that they have been abused either physically or sexually then legal advice will be required.

Neglect: Again it is a sad fact that

many elderly people are neglected and are not receiving adequate food, adequate clothing or being left alone for lengthy periods. If an elderly person is ill and is confined to bed, particular problems can arise.

Financial abuse: The elderly are in a particularly vulnerable position when it comes to finance and quite often they must allow third parties have access to their accounts. If they feel that money is being taken from their account without permission or if it is being used for the wrong purposes, a solicitor can help.

Psychological abuse: This can often happen where a person feels afraid for any number of reasons. If the actions of somebody else are causing depression or feelings of despair or loneliness then action can be taken to prevent this reoccurring.

Discrimination: Discrimination can occur in any environment and affects older people as much as it can affect anybody else. A solicitor is happy to advise and take whatever action is necessary to ensure that such discrimination

does not take place.

Health care fraud and abuse: They can advise where healthcare is being charged for but is not being provided. They can also help if there has been overcharging or over medicating or under medicating.

If you suspect elderly abuse but you aren’t sure, seek advice. Often a solicitor might not necessarily be first port of call but advice should be sought.

A recent study carried out by UCD and St. Mary’s Hospital confirmed that elder abuse remains one of the most hidden forms of interfamily conflict within many societies. The study found that over 10,200 elderly people (with an average age of 74 and just over half of whom were women) had suffered either financial, physical or psychological abuse. One in three of those abused said that the mistreatment had begun before the age of 65 and it is very sad to learn that in half of all cases of abuse, the adult children of the victim were said to be the perpetrator. In three out of every four cases, the abuse took place in the victim’s own home.

CONOR A. MAGUIRE

SOLICITORS Conor A. Maguire BA (ES)

T: 071-9855983 • M: 087-6739454 E: mail@camsolicitors.com skype: conor.maguire31 Lower Main Street, Manorhamilton, Co. Leitrim (Sub Office) High Street, Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim (Tuesdays 4-7pm)

Tel: 071-9144479

Elphin Street, Boyle | 19 Chapel Street, Sligo

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

www.mcgregorsolicitor.com Contact Mary for a quote Tel: 096-33456 Market Street, Killala • mary@mcgregorsolicitor.com

• Personal Injury Claims* • Employment • Property Sales & Purchases • Family Law • Wills & Probate • Court Attendances Efficient, Confidential & Affordable Legal Services * In contentious business a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or portion of any award or settlement.

Therapies by Carmel Clarke - Call: 087-6323903 for appointment

Aromatherapy & Massage Therapy

A

romatherapy involves the use of essential oils which work with the body's natural processes to maintain good health. These essential oils are distilled from their natural form (plants, leaves/roots, flowers, stems etc.)

The most beneficial way to introduce oils into the body is through the skin.

Once essential oils are diluted in a carrier oil i.e sweet almond oil, grape-seed or rapeseed oil through massage, the essences reach the main organs of the body within 20mins to 1hr .

Essential oils can also be used in the following ways; 1.An inhalation using 3-4 drops on a tissue or in a bowl of hot water - Used with extreme care.

2. Diffuser using warm water fill the well,add 2-4 drops. Place a small candle underneath to retain the heat in the well.

3. Bath- Dilute 3 - 4 drops of the

essential oil to a base oil in the bath water.

On first consultation, the aromatherapist with begin by taking personal details, noting your medical history the Therapist will identify the three systems most in need of strengthening,and choose essential oils to make up your personal recipe.

The Therapist will then explain the procedure regarding the massage .

pressure created during a massage moves blood through congested areas.

This causes blood to flow in,resulting in improved body function and lower blood pressure.

Benefits It is very successful in dealing with stress. It is relaxing, creates peacefulness and serenity . Stress relief is key to achieving a healthier lifestyle.

Even a single massage treatment can significantly lower heart rate, cortisol and insulin levels all of which helps to reduce stress and improves sleep patterns .

It improves circulation and lowers blood pressure. The

It relaxes muscles and improves flexibility and range of motion within the joints.

If you have back, neck or shoulder pain, odds are posture may be the culprit As we age, joints tend to tighten, restricting our range of motion. A Therapeutic Massage gets to the root of persistent pain by relaxing tense muscles.

Aromatherapy strengthens and enhances the immune system. The body has amazing in-built powers: Using essential oils means less sickness and greater capacity to concentrate and be productive.

Aromatherapy enhances Post-Operative Rehabilitation.

Reflexology for people living with cancer

R

eflexology is a non invasive holistic therapy using techniques on "reflex points" on the hands or feet .

The concept that the body is mirrored on the hands and feet and reflex point represent a specific part of the body . Using skilled techniques on these points stimulates the body's own healing processes and realigns their energies to boost well- being and health.

How can reflexology help?

Due to its very nature , the skilled use of touch, communication and working with the reflexes on the feet or hands , combines well to help the person with cancer to cope and gain back some peace and empowerment in their lives. Individual needs are assessed and treatment is given accordingly .

Benefits of reflexology Can help physical and emotional pain by reducing tension, anxiety and stress. Can help sleep patterns when body is relaxed and stresses are reduced . It stimulates the body's own healing processes and boosts immune system . It can lift mood and bring a sense of well-being therapeutic touch. It can reduce the side effects of Chemotherapy by easing digestive upsets such as nausea,vomiting ,constipation or diarrhoea .

To make an appointment or for a brief informal discussion with myself directly. You can reach me on 087-8093783 or email cathy@cathycavanagh.net or visit my website www.cathycavanagh.net

Holistic Therapies Stéfan de Guylian Aromatherapy • Massage • Reflexology As seen on Irish and International TV

Carmel is a qualified nurse and has Diplomas in Reflexology, Therapeutic Massage & Aromatherapy coupled with Post-Graduate training in reflexology in pregnancy , working with people undergoing cancer treatment including their Carers.

1 0%

DISCOUNT with on an treatment y w this advertith

Home treatments available on request

Airport Road, Strandhill, Co. Sligo Contact Carmel Clarke: 087-6323903

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

Available for House Parties & Corporate Events

(Holistic therapies Sligo)

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 Page 52 Mature Living

Travel on a Mystical Journey...

Contact Stefan: 087-6108105 • stefandeguylian@gmail.com Learn to understand and accept your self

Henry Schwab Healing

Hypnotherapy & Psychotherapy(Dip.Hyp./Psych.,ADHP),EFT Master Practitioner (AMT), Advanced Practitioner of Meridian Therapies, Master in Reiki & Seichem (Tera Mai)

LEARN TO UNDERSTAND AND ACCEPT YOUR SELF calm, relaxed and in control REIKI may help you to heal pain in your body, back and joints, relaxing and balancing your body and mind.

TAPPING ( EFT = emotional freedom therapy) may be very effective to overcome your anxiety, fears, phobia and negative thinking to free you from mental and emotional stress.

TAT(Tapas Acupressure Technique) may heal old trauma and many allergies.

Matrix Reimprinting = transforming your past, present and future.

Psychotherapy and Hypnotherapy are available.

ANXIETY , BEREAVEMENT , CHILDHOOD ABUSE , CONFIDENCE , DEPRESSION , EATING DISSORDER , FEARS & PHOBIAS , PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT , RELAXATION , STRESS MANAGEMENT, STOP SMOKING , WEIGHT MANAGEMENT , and any other problem of a psychosomatic nature, i.e. caused by the mind it is never too late to turn your life around - www.henryschwabhealing.com

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

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Pick a smarter Password & PIN this one from PC Tools.)

Do you need to go to all this trouble for every account?

Perhaps not, but experts warn that the more important the data you’re guarding, the stronger your password should be and the more frequently you should change it. Some sources recommend adding “change passwords” to your New Year’s resolutions, or changing your online banking passwords each season.

I

t seems we’re asked for a password or personal identification number (or PIN) just about everywhere we go. Online banking and electronic payment methods have become a mainstay, not to mention all those websites and online services that require registration…

And, just in case you managed to memorize all your credentials, experts warn to change them every few months to keep criminals out. It’s a nuisance — but the alternative is worse with identity theft and fraud on the rise.

So how can you create passwords you can remember, but criminals can’t guess? Read through for some expert tips.

Recognize (and avoid) the weaknesses According to experts, you’re putting yourself at risk if your passwords…

• are too short. Fewer characters means fewer potential combinations, so anything less than six could be problematic.

• use common names, words or character strings. (For instance, Consumer Reports notes that some of the most popular passwords for Twitter include “rosebud”, “password” and “123456”.) Such passwords are easy to guess because they’re widely used.

• include words you can find in the dictionary, even if they are misspelled or backwards.

“Dictionary attacks” are a common way to hack passwords, regardless of the language.

• use personal details like your initials, address, birthday, pets’ names, phone number, account numbers or digits from a piece of I.D. like your driver’s license.

This information can often be found through other means, like the phone book or social media.

Create stronger passwords Maybe you’ve spotted some red flags already? Here are some ways to create stronger passwords: • Use at least eight characters.

Some experts say that seven, twelve or fourteen are “the best” lengths, but most agree that longer is better.

• Include numbers and symbols.

Experts note you can use words as long as you break them up (e.g. “vio$22let” or “fif50ty%”).

• Include upper and lowercase letters, if the site allows (e.g. “vIO$22let” or “fI50Fty%”).

• Have variety. Repeating letters and numbers can be risky.

Many sites have a built in meter to rank your new password, but you can also try sites like The Password Meter to test potential choices. Another alternative is to try a password generator. (As an example, try

Use tricks to remember them In short, the best passwords look almost like a random mix of letters, symbols and numbers • but how can you make them memorable?

• Use a mnemonic. Create a simple sentence (or use a phrase you’ll remember) and capture the first letter of each word. For example: “All yellow dogs love to swim” gives you the character string “aydlts”.

• Write down part of your password. Experts recommend writing down the first and last couple of characters to help jog your memory. If your password is “24violet$”, then jot down “24v…t$” as a framework.

• Swap the numbers and symbols when you have to update — and leave the letters and words in tact.

• Keep a secure list — with caution. Many experts warn not to write down your passwords, especially for financial accounts where you could be on the hook for fraudulent activity if you do.

However, some sources say you can write down your passwords if you keep them in a secure place (like a safe) rather than on your computer.

Another big no-no: using password managers or “remember this password” features in your Internet browser. If someone hacks into your computer, you’ve made it easier to access all of your other accounts.

Websites and online services that manage passwords are also a serious security risk.

Keep separate sets of

credentials You’ve got a strong user ID and password you can remember — but don’t use it too often, warn experts.

A recent survey conducted by Trusteer (an online security firm) revealed that the majority of internet users reuse their login credentials — which can put their information at risk.

Nearly three quarters of people use the same password for online banking as they do for other websites like social media and email. Worse yet, nearly half of respondents reported using the same password and user ID combination for a variety of purposes.

Admittedly, we don’t want to have dozens of user IDs and passwords in our heads, but Trusteer recommends we should have at least three, one each for: 1) Financial websites only. (Use the strongest possible passwords for these websites).

2) Non-financial websites that contain personal information — like social media websites, online shopping and email.

3) Websites that don’t store any personal or financial information about you. (While not as urgent, you’d still like to avoid someone using your account to spam others or commit a crime.)

In addition, we should consider using a separate set for work.

Employees who mix professional and personal credentials can put their employers at risk.

the date of your parents’ anniversary with the date of your favourite team’s big win.

• Turn letters into numbers.

Using the keypad on your telephone, turn a code word into numbers to help you remember a numeric password or PIN. • Use a unique PIN. Avoid reusing a previous PIN within a year or using one from another account.

Protect all of your accounts

One final warning: don’t underestimate the importance of protecting your passwords.

According to the U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team (USCERT), many people mistakenly think their information isn’t useful to hackers. It might be hard to see why your data is of interest when there are better targets, but criminals target anyone and anything for profit.

In addition, hacking your accounts, even seemingly insignificant ones like social media or email, is often part of a larger attack. Every piece of data leads to other information that can be used against you.

Unfortunately, there’s no guarantee that your accounts will be completely safe from the crooks. However, most of us aren’t taking advantage of the extra protection that stronger passwords and PINs can offer.

Pick better PINs What about those number-only PINs we use online, in the store or at the bank machine? Many of the above rules still apply. For instance: • Avoid using all one number, like “9999”, and skip sequences like “1234” or “5678”. These PINs are too easy to guess.

• Stay clear of your personal information like birthdays, phone numbers and account numbers.

• If you use dates, combine them. For instance, combine

Evernote for when your brain lets you down

O

ne of the really frustrating aspects of getting a bit older is the occasional (frequent) forgetfulness that creeps in.

I hope it is because my noggin is so full of useful bits and pieces of information that it is difficult to find what I am looking for. I suspect, however, it may be more

than that.

Thankfully, there is an App that may have the power to change this part of your life.

Don’t believe me? You need to check out Evernote — the one app where you can keep all your little and big bits of information, store it, retrieve it and access it from all your devices.

Evernote has become many things to many people. In fact, for many of us it has become our most indispensable app.

Why? Because Evernote just works!

I don’t think any two people use Evernote the same way.

Evernote has made me more efficient, more reliable and a lot more

organized. It works on your Windows or Mac, your iPhone or Android device, your iPad or even your Blackberry. And best of all, Evernote is free!

In Evernote you can keep: — text notes — web sites — text clippings — screen captures — audio notes — URLs — photos, and more!

Page 53 Mature Living

Relationships

What makes

us Happy?

If you knew how many days you had to live, would that change what you’re doing right now?

Would knowing that make you want to do more of what makes you happy perhaps?

Your life in days.

“The average life expectancy of the global population in 2011 is 70 years, ranging from 80+ years in countries such as Japan, Australia, and France, to less than 60 years in South Africa, Laos and Kenya. ” World Health Organization, 2012.

From Life in Half a Second, by Matthew Michalewicz, Hybrid Publishers 2013 Let’s assume you might live to be 80.

Subtract your current age from 80 and multiple the result by 365 to find the number of ‘days you have left’.

Sobering hey?

So that’s it. That’s all you have left.

What will you do, where will you go? Hands up, who’s been to Italy?

A lot of people I know love travelling, or they like the thought of it. But many don’t

do it, because there are always compromises that have to be made in order to actually get on the road or on a plane. Money, time, you know the reasons. I do know however, that there are a whole heap of Mature Living readers who love to travel and do get out there, do it and talk about it.

What makes us happy?

Knowing approximately how many days you might have left, do you feel a sense of urgency, as if there is actually a countdown on your life. The egg timer is running, the dress rehearsal ended a long time ago, this is it.

So have you figured out the things that make you happy, and do you make an effort to do them?

Because really we should be in a hurry to do them. A hurry to do things with the rest of the time we have left.

In his book Life in Half a Second (which really made me think) Matthew explains that it took billions of years for you to be made from scraps of living matter, from bacteria, microbes, fermenting cells fighting for the right to exist to create Homo Sapiens. They went on an epic journey of survival hunting and being hunted enduring pain and suffering so that the species could survive. At the end of this one sperm out of 300 million attached itself to an egg, creating you, only you.

“The point of it all, since the planet cooled and nature first put her hand to work, was to produce you ….and here you are the finest specimen of an eternity of mutation and adaptation, surviving the evolutionary climb of all

Page 54 Mature Living

evolutionary climbs, through miracle and chance, beating all odds, winning a trillion-to-onewager, winning the sperm race to be born, to be you. And today, sitting comfortably, reading this book safe, warm, fed, the beneficiary of millions of years of unimaginable suffering and billions of years of incalculable good luck, there you are, with just half a second to enjoy the result, the marvel of existing, the miracle of being. And what do you do with that half second? Something other than what you want!”

Life in Half a Second, Matthew Michalewicz. Life in Half a Second challenge What makes me happy? Well really it comes down to the little things ; being with the people I love, watching my kids enjoy themselves on a day out,

cycling in the forest, writing for this magazine! And goals? I’m always thinking about travel trips to organise with my wife.

But I’m wondering what makes you happy? And are you doing it?

So what are you waiting for?

How many days did you say you had left?

Action: Get out today and go do something that makes you happy. In amongst that big list of To-Do’s, go hug your grandchildren, phone a friend, set some goals, plan a family holiday, organise a Sunday lunch with your children, bake a cake, or take the dog for a long walk somewhere that speaks to your soul – why not do something to treasure as well as figure out something lovely you can work towards?

Breakaways

The Luxury Glenlo Abbey

A

Manor to which you can become accustomed...

Galway’s 5 star luxury hotel, Glenlo Abbey, is

the ideal choice for your breakaway in Galway, with unrivalled personal service it is the perfect place for either

relaxation or an activities based holiday.

The wildness of Connemara is right on our doorstep and the

vibrancy of Galway City is only minutes away.

The ideal location for exploring the West of Ireland - With its superb dining options. including the River Room Restaurant overlooking the estate, the Oak Cellar Bar, and three elegant Receptions Rooms, where guests can enjoy a relaxing drink, afternoon tea, or take time out to relax and read the newspapers.

And the PULLMAN RESTAURANT ABOARD THE ORIENT EXPRESS, a 66 seater restaurant comprising of 2 of the original carriages from the Orient Express is a “must”

Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa

O

ffering one of the best locations in and around Dublin, Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa has become known as one of the finest new hotels in Ireland. The best of both worlds allow you to easily access all that Dublin city centre and surrounding shopping has to offer and yet the tranquillity of Dunboyne Village is on the doorstep.

Seiod Spa has 18 treatment rooms and a luxurious hydrotherapy pool.

The Terrace Lounge is a delightful conservatory area overlooking the magnificent gardens and is a perfect setting to unwind with a pre-dinner drink.

The 2AA Rosette Award Winning Restaurant – The Ivy, where the journey through your taste buds takes over and for wine lovers a special treat is in store. Any visit to Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa would be incomplete without a visit to the Sadlier Bar, where locals gather and mingle with

guests in a friendly festive setting.

Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa features 145 oversized modern guest rooms; 2 junior suites featuring separate bedrooms and living room areas and two presidential suites that must be seen to be believed.

Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa – a must visit hotel with great service and stunning facilities. Visit www.dunboynecastlehotel.com and see the amazing special offers.

Harbour Hotel, Galway

T

he Harbour Hotel is the ideal venue to experience the

excitement and vibrancy of Galway. The Harbour Hotel deliver the

complete experience with their City Centre waterfront location is

right in the heart of the Galway City with ample car parking space, and unrivalled hospitality, it couldn’t be easier.

Just a 3 minute stroll from our hotel will take you to Eyre Square and the city centre, including Shop Street and the bustling bars & cafés of Quay Street. Meander along the cultured streets and enjoy the pace of life unique to the West of Ireland. You are assured of a very warm welcome upon arrival.

Our team will welcome you to our modern, comfortable, family owned hotel and take excellent care of you throughout your stay.

Breakaways

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

T

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

Winter Golden Getaways 2B&B+2Dinners €99pp / 3B&B+2Dinners €139pp Free Tea/Coffee on arrival - Free Spa Session Ballroom Dancing Holiday

4 Nights B&B, 4 Evening Meals Dancing to Live Bands & Tuition €239pp February 22nd - 26th 2015

Group Rates 2015

2 Nights B&B + 2 Dinners €109pp / 3 Nights B&B + 3 Dinners €149pp With Free Spa Thermal Session, Tea/Coffee, Entertainment & Activities Call Group Organiser Leona for more info...

4 Star, Family Owned, Town Centre hotel

Reservations: 074-9132266

Ballybofey, Co Donegal Email: reservations@villarose.net • www.villarose.ie

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 Coordinator at the Villa Rose for full details

Active Retirement breaks in the beautiful costal town of Donegal

T

he Abbey Hotel is located on the main square of the beautiful coastal town of Donegal. The small harbour town lies at the heart of Co. Donegal making it the ideal place to explorer the north west. The superior 3-star Hotel is right next to Donegal Castle, Donegal Bay Waterbus, Craft village, Donegal railway and heritage centre, and a short distance from Salthill gardens, 2 blue flag beaches and some of Donegal’s top walking and hiking trails.

Comfortable bedrooms each feature a flat-screen TV, telephone and individual private bathroom. Most rooms also overlook Donegal Bay and the

River Eske.

The award winning Market House restaurant has a menu of excellent international cuisine.

Guests can dine in a room full of character, and drink from the wide selection of wines.

The Eas Dun Bar, with its unique 2-tier interior design, offers regular live entertainment and music almost every night of the year.

Guests have complimentary use of the leisure centre facilities next door, including a pool, spa bath, steam room and gym.

During your visit hotel offers complementary parking, free Wi-Fi in all rooms throughout the hotel and a voucher of Tea/Coffee and scone. No

single room supplement Thursday to Sunday. For weekend rates please contact reception.

Other Entertainment Available: 21st Dec. Nathan Carter & Band 28th Dec. Sharon Shannon, Frances Black & Mary Coughlan 29th-31st Dec. Christmas & New Year Dancing Getaway 1st Jan. Johnny Cash, June Carter Tribute Show 30th Jan. Country Music Weekend. Jim Divine, Jimmy Buckley, Stephen Smyth, Declan Nerney, Robert Mizzel NB: For prices ,information on facilities and attractions visit www.Abbeyhoteldonegal.com

Active Retirement Breaks 2014 November 2014

2 Nights B&B & 2 Dinners - €99pps 3 Nights B&B & 3 Dinners - €139pps 4 Nights B&B & 4 Dinners - €179pps

Other Entertainment Available: 21st Dec. Nathan Carter & Band 28th Dec. Sharon Shannon, Frances Black & Mary Coughlan 29th-31st Dec. Christmas & New Year Dancing Getaway, 1st Jan. Johnny Cash, June Carter Tribute Show 30th Jan. Country Music Weekend. Jim Divine, Jimmy Buckley, Stephen Smyth, Declan Nerney, Robert Mizzel

Abbey Hotel, Donegal Town, Co. Donegal • Tel: 074-9721014 Email: oisin@abbeyhoteldonegal.com

www.abbeyhoteldonegal.com

...With so much to choose from, what better way to spend a day or so than at the beautiful Royal Marine Hotel…

A

short drive along the South East coast will bring you to Dun Laoghaire, where overlooking the bay you will find the Royal Marine Hotel. Steeped in history, and a favorite with the locals, this landmark hotel is an impressive sight on the Dun Laoghaire skyline. A hotel has stood here since 1828. Many celebrities, and even royalty have passed through its doors over the decades. In 2004 this magnificent old building closed for restoration, a painstaking labour of love by the present owners.

Situated in an elevated site on 4 acres overlooking Dublin Bay, the hotel has stunning views that on a clear day stretch as far away as Howth; and yet is still only a short journey from down-town Dublin. The original hotel has been extensively but sympathetically renovated with precise attention to detail.

And it is just this same attention to detail, we extend to you as our guest – whether overnight or simply joining us for a drink in our bar or dining in our restaurant.

The large bay windows and high ceilings of the Bay Lounge highlight the grandeur and historic feel that is central to the hotel style. Lavishly furnished it is a comfortable and ideal venue to meet friends and family for coffee, lunch or perhaps to enjoy the age-old tradition of afternoon tea whilst overlooking the gardens, with spectacular views of the harbour. Our resident pianist completes the ambience every Saturday afternoon.

Or perhaps dine in relaxed style in our Dún Bistro where the delights of the Restaurant are matched only by the professional friendly service and stunning views over the harbour. Serving an Early Bird Menu, Table d’hote

and a la Carte Menus.

Try out lively Hardy’s Bar for a local drink (named after the famous actors and world famous partners Laurel & Hardy who stayed in the original Royal Marine Hotel). Food served every day until 10pm. Live music every Saturday night.

The Pier Health Club offers state-of-the-art cardio and resistance equipment, free weight area and a luxury 18 metre swimming pool. We are proud to offer our members a spacious, relaxed and welcoming environment in which to exercise. Or simply retreat into the hushed tranquillity of the sansanaSpa (the only Failté Ireland ‘comprehensive’ spa in Dublin) and choose pampering delights from our extensive treatment menu.

With so much to choose from, what better way to spend a day or so than at the beautifully restored Royal Marine Hotel…

Knock House Hotel Christmas is nearly here

D

o something different this Christmas and join us here at Knock House Hotel! Arrive to the warmest of welcomes, feel the festive atmosphere and relax.

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.

You can choose to stay for 2, 3, 4 or 5 day packages which includes: your accommodation, lovely festive food, fun, games, entertainment, present, a shopping day trip and much more. Early booking is essential call Karen on 094 9388088 to request our Christmas brochure or to make a booking.

Visit the stunning Leitrim countryside be rounded off with a lavish evening meal It is an ideal wedding venue or conference centre.

The central location of the hotel in Leitrim facilitates tours and visits to the surrounding unspoiled countryside. The location facilitates visits to the many nearby lakes that comprise the Leitrim countryside and shopping in nearby Sligo or Enniskillen A visit to Lough Allen hotel & Spa in Drumshanbo is a must and there are packages to suit any budget.

Drumshanbo • Co Leitrim www.loughallenhotel.com

Mid Week 2 Nights B&B Offer 2 Nights B&B for 2 people Only €99 Available Sun-Thur Only...€49.50pps

O

Please mention Mature Living Leinster when booking

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

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

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

P

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.

Services Directory

CHIMNEY

PROBLEMS FREEFONE: 1800 200 510

Relining, Repairing, Rebuilding Normally no opening of walls , Free Insurance Quotes, National Guild of Master Craftsman

Creating the perfect personalised momento of those we dearly miss

NATIONWIDE SERVICE

Oil Kits Supplied and Fitted, Stoves and Ranges Fitted

Declan 087-9974893

For a consultation in our comfortable surroundings, please pop in to our shop Upstairs at JT Office Supplies, Ballina, Co. Mayo.

Tel: 086 7792771

Westport Foot Clinic

Westport, Co. Mayo

Chiropodist: Martin Mc Nally Tel: 087 222 6260

DEAD AND WORN-OUT ANIMALS

• Free 24/7 Call out service • Free Surveys • Discreet soloutions • Regular Inspections • Senior Citizen Discounts West Pest is an expert pest control company based in the West of Ireland but covering all areas. We cater for domestic, commercial and agricultural customers. We deal with all pests including: Rats, Mice, Wasps, Bees, Flies, Ants, Cockroaches, Fleas, Bedbugs, Pigeons and other Wild Birds.

We will respond to any emergency within an hour.

Tel: 089-461-2664 info@westpest.ie • www.westpest.ie

Middleton Travel Middleton Travel Sligo - People on the move

We can cater for all your trips: • Family Outings • Airport Transfers • The Races • Golfing Trips • Sporting Trips • Stag & Hen Parties • Corporate Events • Office Parties Middleton Travel, 11 The Elms, Woodtown Lodge, Sligo Tel: 071-9162890 • Francie: 086-8143464 Keith: 087-2918668 Email: middletontravel@eircom.net www.middletontravelsligo.com

TREACY COACHES BALLINA • Traditional Tin Smiths • Copper • Aluminium • Zinc • Stainless Steel • Lead • Titanium • Natural Slate • Ornamentation

Contact: Tom Rogers Strokestown, Co. Roscommon SAME DAY COLLECTION SERVICE SERVICING LEITRIM & SLIGO FARMERS FOR OVER 20 YEARS

071-9634783 / 9633344 Only Licensed Knackers Yard & Service in NorthWest Lowest Prices and Daily Collection Guaranteed

All forms of cladding & roofing in tradition standing seam and batten roll in Copper, Zinc, Aluminium Stainless steel and Lead Sheet.

Specialist flashing kits for chimneys,dormers, box gutter valleys and pitched valleys for slated roofs.

Design, layout and detailing services for both commercial and private projects.

Welding and fabricating of Stainless Steel and aluminium.

GG Roofing, The Grove, Kilmovee, Co. Mayo 087 2437259/094 Boyle,Phone: Co. Roscommon Telephone:9649296 071-9670010 Email: info@ggroofing.ie Email Us: info@pureflowers.ie••www.ggroofing.ie www.pureflowers.ie

Daily Service to SLIGO departs Ballina at 7.30am and departs SLIGO IT at 5.15pm Monday to Friday * We Accept Travel Passes *

Enquiries tel: 096-22563

Services Directory KSC PAVING & DECKING CENTRE, BALLINA

WHEELIE BIN SERVICE SKIP HIRE (All Sizes)

096-32500 www.loftusrecycling.com

• PATIO SLAB • BRICK PAVING • FENCING • COLOURED CHIPPING • DESIGN • SUPPLY •FIT

STONEWORKS

• WISHING WELLS • GARDEN WALLS • FISH PONDS • STONE ROCKERIES • BUILD • SUPPLY • DESIGN

Call Martin on 086-0316833

COFFEE HOUSE & ART GALLERY

Harmony Hill, Sligo Tel: 071-91-45810 Tolan Street, Ballina Tel: 096-24763 www.tegre.ie

East Brothers GARDEN MACHINERY

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Emmet St, Ballina, Co. Mayo Tel: 096-70669 Anytime

Email: info@ballinafuneralhome.ie Website: www.ballinafuneralhome.ie

GRAVE CARE

• COLOURED CHIPPINGS • SLABS • BARK • FANCY BRICKWORK • SUPPLY • FIT • MAINTENANCE FREE

Meet You Here FREE CONSULTATION IN YOUR HOME OR OUR SHOWROOMS.

McGowan's

Phone: 071-9162140 Market House, Market Yard, Sligo www.sligofuneralhome.ie info@sligofuneralhome.ie

All Services Provided Authorised representative of Horizon Funeral Planning Talk to us today for help and advice in your Pre-Need arangements

Shane McDonagh Tree Surgery and Agri Contractor

Open for Homemade Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Coffee and Drinks Professional & amateur artists display their work at the ‘Meet You Here’ Coffee House - These pieces are also for sale at an affordable price.

We also retail special gifts for that special someone.

Cathedral Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon Open 8am - 5pm • Tel: 087-7095874 Winner Of Best Causual Dining In Rosscommon

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

Tel: 087-2116836

PROPERTY & GARDEN SERVICES Covering the Connacht area Sit Happenz will travel outside of Connacht www.sithappenz.wix.com/sithappez

• Petrol Chainsaws for Property Maintenance • Chainsaws for Agriculture and Horticulture • Electric / Cordless Chainsaws

BOYLE, CO. ROSCOMMON

Tel/Fax: 071-9662710 • Mobile: 086-2427554

Gazebos & Garden Sheds Built, fencing, grass and hedge cutting, carpentry, flooring, doors, power-washing, painting interior and exterior, gardens cleared, etc

All home and garden jobs

Call: 086-861-5781

In home dog training service. Teaching puppies & old dogs new tricks.

Sit Happenz is a professional in home dog training provided by Cer!fied Animal Behavior Consultant Ashlee Dolan, CABC. Call or e-mail today: Ashlee Dolan

Phone: 085 194 6653

sithappenz@thedoghousemail.com

Services Directory

PADRAIG RUANE Heating & Plumbing

Contact John Foy on M: 085-8893518 • T: 071-9164532

"We don’t just treat, we solve the problem" Sligo Pest Control has over 12 years experience in treating domestic and commercial pests.

Pests treated include mice, rats, bed bugs, flies, fleas, wasps and bees, woodworm and birds.

We are fully qualified, fully insured and can supply references if required.

Eyecare for your Family Market Cross , Sligo | T: 071 91 38775 Manorhamilton | T: 071 98 55444 Carrick-on-Shannon | T: 071 9671850 Open Mon-Sat 9.30am - 5.30pm

www.mcpartlanopticians.ie mcpartlanopticians@gmail.com

• 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

Tel: 071 9130497 Mob: 087 2654493

Doni Feeney Painting & Decorating

GET A FREE QUOTE CALL 086 2461115

Stonemasonry Services Construction Restoration Memorials 086-1953006 / 096-30003

•Mobility Scooters •Rise and Recline Chairs •Massage Chairs •Power Wheelchairs •Stairlifts - Straight and Curved •Thru Floor Domestic Lifts •Orthopaedic Highback Chairs •Level Access Showers •Emergency Response

N5 Business Park, Castlebar, Co. Mayo

094-9024994 - 087-7783633 www.disabilityaidsdirect.net

From single rooms to complete house or commercial refurbishments we have it covered so if you require Professional and Efficient pain"ng and decora"ng come to Doni Feeney Pain"ng and Decora"ng today!

Keane’s Garage TEL: 086-0563130 Roll-R-Doors, Derryhillagh, Castlehill, Ballina, Co. Mayo

Tel: 096-51382 • Mob: 086-1650132 info@rollrdoors.ie • www.rollrdoors.ie

Roll-R-Doors offer a full range of Domestic and Industrial Garage Doors and Accessories. Specialising in both replacement and removal of old doors with new garage doors and installation of new garage doors, Give Roll-RDoors a call on 086 165 0132 to see what we can do for your projects needs.

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

GS

PADRAIG BURKE CONTRACTS Funeral Directors GORDON SHERLOCK

Specialists in tarmac & asphalt driveways Telephone: 071-91-30070 • Mob: 087-2969872

www.sligotarmac.com

Rosebank, Attyrory, Carrick-On-Shannon, Co. Leitrim

WE ARE THERE FOR YOU TO PROVIDE EXCELLENCE IN FUNERAL CARE WHEN YOU AND YOUR FAMILY NEED IT MOST.

Specialising in laying tarmacadam, asphalt and stone mastick asphalt.

From small household driveways to tennis courts, large industrial areas, farm roads, estates, car parks and more

• 25 years of experience in the Tarmacadam business • Free Advice and quotations • Fully insured

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

We are confident that our workmanship wil impress anyone, we can count on our past customers to verify our professionalism and attention to the finest detail.

WARNING!!!

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

All Services Provided

Authorised Representative of Horizon Funeral Planning

Tel: 087-9385571 / 071-9621343

email: padraigburkefuneraldirectors@gmail.com

Drumkeerin Stone www.ap-motors.eu

Unit 2, Ardnaree, Ballina, Co. Mayo

• • • • • •

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

Ariel Dym 096-70993 • 086-8978395

Golden Gravel Suitable for Driveways, Paths, Flowerbeds etc.

Available in 6mm,14mm,20mm and 30mm stone mulch.

Building sand and Golden blinding.

Supplied in ton bags or bulk loads.

Na!onwide delivery available.

Tel: 086-8142496

CHIMNEY Michael REPAIRS Langan Pipe & Petroleum Installations 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

Ardagh, Ballina, Co. Mayo Mobile: 086-2647271 • Tel: 096-70528

info@pipeandpump.ie • www.pipeandpump.ie

• Pipe & Pump Installations • Pump Maintenance • Pipe Work • Tanks and tank gauges • Control systems • New and Refurbished Pumps • Civil Works • Refurbish canopies • Fabricate & install bottom loaders

Feature Article Services Directory

Professional Relationship Counselling Couples & Individuals Fees Based on Personal circumstances

Ballina 096-21478 accordballina@eircom.net

Castlebar 094-9022214 N5 Moneen Business Park, Castlebar, Co. Mayo Tel: 094-9026373 • Fax: 094-9024353 Email: info@walterdonoghue.com www.walterdonoghue.com

We offer you a unique and friendly approach to campervan hire, with us you get to join a community of camper nuts and share your adventure with all your friends.

With Facebug you get to hire a chilled out VW T4 camper with all the usual comforts plus Wifi to check your email, catch up on work or connect to your social networks and a streaming webcam to share your journey with your friends.

We like to keep it simple so campers cost.... €110.00 per day or €700.00 per week which includes insurance

Call us on 085­850­5555 Email: info@facebugcampers.com www.facebugcampers.com

accordcbar@eircom.net

Charlestown 094-9254944 accordcharlestown@eircom.net

• 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

GIBLIN STONE ...everlasting

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

Quality • Experience • Service

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, GRANITE COUNTERS gambling and other dependencies. & FIREPLACES IN MARBLE, GRANITE ALSO AVAILABLE, CALL US TODAY FOR DETAILS

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

www.giblinstone.com

Hope House... “where recover$ begins” 2014

HEAR Ltd.

HEARING CLINIC Gerard Feeney BSC, MSHAA, MISHAA, MIHS Hearing Aid Consulta!on will a"end:

Matt O’Flaherty Chemists, William Street, Galway. Tel: 091- 556664 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

Mc Sharry's Pharmacy, Golden Island, Athlone, Co. Westmeath Tel: 090-6474799 Hayes & Hayes Pharmacy, St. Brendans Street, Portumna. Tel: 090-9741025 Stauntons Pharmacy, Main Street, Castlebar Tel: 094-9024045 Appointment Necessary FREE HEARING TEST, CONSULTATION AND ADVICE Latest Digital Technology Available.

PRSI Grants of up to 50% per aid may apply.

Repairs to all makes of hearing aids.

Services Directory

Aluminium & PVC Repairs TANK CLEAN To windows, doors and patio doors

Boyle, Co. Roscommon • Septic Tanks Emptied

Expert patio door repairs!

Pre-Cast Sewage Treatment Units Septic Tanks & Rainwater Tanks Supplied & Fitted New Percolation Areas & Polishing Filters Installed All Work to EPA Standard Permit No. 13-11160-01

• Rollers • Tracks • Hinges • Door Realignment • Locks • Multilocking systems etc Over 20 years experience servicing Irish windows and doors. Fully insured GLASS PARTS ETC REPLACED

Call today for a site visit - David Regan: 087-9125128 • Boyle, Co. Roscommon

Brendan Gormley: 071-9183860 / 087-2562669

PADRAIC CRYAN STONE WORK Based in Roscommon, Padraic Cryan Stone & Blockwork Services is an Irish company with over 16 years experience in the Irish Construc!on Industry that prides itself on exceeding customer expecta!ons and delivering all work on budget and within the agreed !meframe.

We provide General Building work from Restora!ons to New Builds, and Stoneworks and are happy to meet you at your convenience and provide you with a quota!on.

Call Padraic on (086) 2867950 today for a FREE no hassle quota!on

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

SCHOTT ROBAX is a DOORS SERVICING heat resistant Ceramic

Repairs to all makes of Windows & Doors, Fogged Units, Hinges & Handles Replaced.

MALE 50’S North Mayo (Newport) kind, caring, sincere, likes cooking, walking, swimming, people, conversation, seeks a femaile for friendship and companionship Replies in a stamped

envelope to box number 1050 at the usual address.

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

Replies in a stamped envelope to box number 1040 SLIGO LADY 50 BUT LOOKS 10 YEARS YOUNGER Would like to meet nice, respectable, loving, genuine, hon-

FREE DATING* CLASSIFIED

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

Tel: 087-3542249

DATING CLASSIFIEDS GREEN ACRES Single man, 55, good jobm would like to meet sincere lady, foreign ladies please reply too!

Replies with a stamped envelope to Box number 1101 at the address below.

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.

est man for fun and dancing and see what happens.

Replies in a stamped envelope to box number 1023 at the usual address.

PRETTY TALL SLIM 60’S Retired nurse many interests, wltm gentleman over 6ft tall to have and to hold for yhe rest of our lives to enjoy ala. Leinster.

Replies in a stamped envelope to box number 1080 at the usual address.

Far Finisklin Road, Sligo

Tel: 071­91 61924

sales@sligoglass.com • www.sligoglass.com

"pride in our work"

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 in a stamped envelope to box number at the usual address.

1109 at the usual address.

SINGLE, MATURE, ATTRACTIVE LADY Medium height and build, long brown hair, Interests are reading, history, philosophy, Gaelic, TV, Music, concerts, theatre, walking, travelling, loves animals - especially dogs. Wishes to meet somone like minded. Replies in a stamped envelope to box number

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:

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

(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

TELEPHONE NUMBER:

STRICTLY PRIVATE ADVERTISERS ONLY - BUSINESSES CAN CALL 071-9154538 AND SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY SALES REPRESENTATIVES ABOUT OUR EXCELLENT RATES.

Page 63 Mature Living

Early Retired?

Relax and unwind in Sligo with 3 nights Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

From only €135 per person

Includes use of the Leisure Club

Luxury 3 Night Christmas Break

Subject to availabilit" #om Sunday to Thursday for g$ests over 55

Only €399 per person sharing & €475 Single Occupancy

This Lux$r" 3 Night Package includes: 3 Nights Bed and Breakfast, Festivities begin with a Mulled Wine and Mince Pie Reception on Christ%as Eve Aſter'oon in the lobby Pre Dinner Cocktails on Christ%as Eve followed by a 3 Course Evening Meal in the Award Winning Hazelwood Restaurant Light Lunch on Christ%as Day and A Festive 4 Course Meal on Christ%as Evening As well as a 3 Course Evening Meal on St Stephens Night.

Sligo Park Hotel and Leisure Club Pearse Road, Sligo • Tel: 071 919 0400 Web: www.sligoparkhotel.com • Email: Sligo@leehotels.com