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Lowest month for road deaths since records began T
HE Road Safety Authority (RSA) and An Garda Síochána have praised the public for their efforts in saving lives on our roads as April 2011 was confirmed as the safest month since records began in 1959. Provisional figures, released by the agencies, show that nine people lost their lives on Irish roads in April. Previously the lowest monthly recorded figure was in December 2010 when ten people were killed on the roads. Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport Leo Varadkar TD acknowledged the key role played by road users: “While one death is one too many it is very important that we acknowledge the efforts of all road users in making April 2011 the safest on record. Your efforts to improve road safety, and to protect communities, have saved many lives. I would again appeal to everyone to please re-double your efforts and continue this life-saving behaviour.” Joe Doherty, Traffic Inspector for the Mayo Division of the Gardai said that Garda activity on the roads has increased significantly in the last two weeks, with high profile patrolling and emphasis on motorists speeding, drink driving or using their mobile phones while driving. Continued on Page 2
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Lowest month for road deaths since records began continued from front page
“I wish to compliment all the motorists who have taken heed of road safety warnings which have led to a relatively safe period over the Easter.” Garda Doherty also credited the rollout of the ‘Go Safe’ vans to the increased safety on the roads around the Northwest: “Motorists have taken notice of the activity of the vans and have slowed down; motorists must continue to do this.”
He added: “Gardai carried out targeted operations over the weekend aimed at drink drivers, which also made a significant difference.” Mr. Noel Brett of the RSA said, “I am very mindful of the trauma and grief felt by the families of the nine people who died on our roads during the month of April and plead with all road users to do everything in your power to ensure that you do not inflict such unnecessary suf-
fering and pain on your family or that of someone with whom you share the road. Please act today to change your behaviour and that of any other person within your family or circle of friends whose road behaviour is a cause of concern. A caring intervention today beats years of recrimination and regret.” A total of 66 people have died on the roads to date in 2011.
Elderly mental health services criticised MENTAL health services for older people in Ireland are under-resourced, a new report from the Mental Health Commission (MHC) has warned. According to the commission's National Overview of Services 2010, the biggest challenge facing these services ‘is the fact that this population is projected to double in size by 2036 and adequate service planning and resource allocation is required'. Mental health services for older people provide care and treatment for those aged 65 years and over who develop new onset functional mental illness, such as depression, and those with dementia who develop behavioural and psychological problems which require specialist intervention. The report noted that those over the age of 65 currently make up 11% of the population, however this is due to increase to 25% by 2036. "Mental health service users of 65 years and over will have increasing mental and physical health needs as they age. In addition, existing service users who ‘graduate'
to the over 65 years of age category will typically have complex healthcare needs," it said. Dementia is the most common reason for admission to long-term care and it is estimated that 44,000 persons in Ireland have dementia and that this will increase to 104,000 by 2036. Meanwhile, the dependency ratio in Ireland is projected to increase from 18% currently to 38% by 2041. "All of these factors will increase the demand for age appropriate, accessible and integrated mental health and social care services," the report explained. The MHC said that its ‘preferred standard' would be to have one dedicated team of professionals per 10,000 older people. In 2010, there were 22 such teams nationwide, all under the direction of the HSE. Populations of the over-65 age groups varied from 10,200 in south Tipperary to 34,000 in Dublin south east. A number of issues were raised in the report, such as:
-In the Mayo catchment area, it was reported that 4,000 adults in the north west of the county had no access to services -There were seven mental health service for older people teams working in the HSE West region, but no specialist services were available in Roscommon and north Tipperary -In east Galway, there were ‘poor transport networks throughout the catchment' and there was no day hospital available -In Carlow/Kilkenny, referrals were previously being assessed within a two week period, usually in the patient's home, however, there had been an increase of 50% in referral numbers and the service was now having to consider providing more assessments in a clinic setting "There is an urgent need for access to both acute and long-stay designated beds. Scarce resources impact to narrow a focus to urgent and high priority cases and do not support a broader psychosocial perspective and efforts to engage with families and carers, voluntary groups, education, prevention and health promotion," it concluded.
Concern over drinking sessions in private homes
Drinking sessions in private houses are a new social phenomenon that are draining Gardai resources and causing depression and anti-social behaviour, according to a Roscommon County Councillor. While welcoming the findings of a survey which suggests County Roscommon has one of the lowest levels of alcohol consumption in the country, Fianna Fail Councillor Paddy
Kilduff said that excessive drinking by some people represents the biggest problem facing local Gardai. Cllr. Kilduff made his comments in the week in which an Aviva Health Insurance survey determined that people in County Roscommon are spending on average €1,600 per year on alcohol. The Aviva study, conducted as part of Alcohol Awareness Month, con-
cluded that Roscommon, and Donegal, have one of the lowest levels of alcohol consumption in the country, with people here drinking an average of nine units of alcohol per week. Men in County Roscommon spend on average €2,258 per year on alcohol compared with an average spend by women of €1,323. Cllr. Kilduff welcomed the findings, but said that many people are still drinking “way above the average.” He said alcohol consumption is the prime cause of anti-social behaviour in the county’s towns and villages and added that drinking in private houses is a new social problem. People from Sligo spent more per year on alcohol (€1,807) compared to Roscommon (€1,608) and Donegal (€1,730) they drank less than people in Leitrim (€1,833) and Mayo (€1,859). The statistics for this research were collected via the Aviva
Online Health Check which was completed by 20,043 people between December 2008 and April 2011 and involved respondents answering a series of questions on their health and lifestyle habits. Speaking following the results of the Online Health Check, Dr. Stephen Murphy of the Aviva Medical Council said: “People living in Ireland who are in work have a tendency towards a work hard, play hard lifestyle. Often drinking is used as a way to unwind after a busy week or to forget about the troubles of the day. Our research shows people are spending nearly €2,000 on alcohol annually, and also suggests that alcohol is being consumed excessively among adults. This is worrying behaviour, particularly as people tend to under-report their alcohol consumption and may be unaware that drinking has been linked to breast, liver and oral cancers.”
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Residences still available for academic year 2011/2012 Premium, bright, spacious & affordable accommodation.
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Convenience store, deli, coffee dock, laundrette and more on campus. Submit your application for a residence not later than Wednesday, August 31st 2011, and enter the ‘750 club’ draw to be held on Thursday, September 15th, 2011. The first 15 names drawn will receive a ‘rent credit’ in the sum of 750 each. Bus Connections available to and from IT Sligo. Late Night bus service from Sligo City. (inc. Sunday night) SASR is a Section 50, PRTB and BER Compliant Undertaking.
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regionalnews Connacht Gold to create 30 new jobs
SLIGO based Co-Op Connacht Gold has reported a 13pc increase in turnover and an operating profit of just over 2m for last year and is to create 30 jobs in its consumer foods and agri-business divisions, the company said recently. Turnover at the co-op
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cluding consumer foods, nacht called "an extremely agribusiness sales and a record competitive market". Its butter brands added 23pc year for the livestock marts in volume. The upward trend in business. The co-op already employs production has continued to around 560 people and has said the point that Connacht Gold it would take on the new staff is now apparently the number throughout the rest of this year. two fresh milk processor on Like most businesses in the this island. Chief executive dairy sector, Connacht Gold Aaron Forde was pleased with reaped the benefits of higher the co-op's performance, espemilk prices, lifting turnover from cially when contrasted against the dairy ingredients sector by the backdrop of a struggling 44pc to 60m.The average milk economy. It is expected that around 25 price paid to suppliers was of the new jobs will be in the 30.9c per litre. storesaround the re"The growth in milkprices in co-op’s 2010 and early 2011 as a result of the upgrade has eased gion, somewhat," the co-op said. of retail stores and the opening "Milk supply is responding of new retail outlets. The restrongly to higher prices and mainder of the jobs will be op de- erational and technical how markets evolve is very pendent on demand holding positions within the company’s consumer foods division. Conup." Agri-business turnover de- nacht Gold has stores in Sligo Town, Tubbercurry, Ballymote, clined slightly, to 88m, reflect ing lower farm inputprices, but Ballintrillick, Easkey, Screen, in consumer foods, sales in- Riverstown, Achonry, Kilmaccreased to 43m in what Con- tranny and Gurteen.
reached 300m last year, compared to 264m in 2009. Property disposals boosted the co-op's pre-tax profits to 5m last year, compared to 1.8m in 2009. Chief executive Aaron Forde said the increased turnover reflected growth in all areas, in-
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cer Society's mission is to play a chemotherapy treatments, and than chemotherapy and which vital role in achieving world-class can also help in maintaining a predicts the patient’s likely benecancer services in Ireland, to en- positive body image at this chal- fit from chemotherapy as well as sure fewer people get cancer and lenging time. The Dip in the Nip their likelihood of breast cancer those that do have better out- over the next five years wants to recurrence. Approximately 200 comes. ensure that all cancer patients people a year could benefit from Organisers also hope to pro- have the opportunity and choice this therapy. vide a Scalp Cooler to the to use scalp coolers. To register now for the Dipin Haematology and Oncology DeThe Dip in the Nip is also sup- the Nip 2011 to raise money for partment in Sligo General Hos- porting the Drogheda Cancer a great cause and have a laugh pital with the money raised. and Education Trust in doing it, simply visit www.dip Scalp Research coolers are very successful in providing a genomic test which inthenip.eu. More information minimising and sometimes pre- determines if a patient is better about the Dip in the Nip will be venting hair loss during suited to anti-hormonal therapy available in the coming weeks.
A date has been set for what has now become the annual Dip in the Nip in Sligo for the Irish Cancer Society, which is set to take place on Saturday, 25 June. Organisers are going to throw a big party the night of the dip, and are hoping that the Dippers who travel for the event will make a weekend of it, calling it the Big Dipper Party. The Dip in the Nip is proud to support the Irish Cancer Society for the third year.The Irish Can-
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Sligo GAA Club host fashion event SLIGO town GAA club, St. Johns, are hosting a fun, fashion community event on Thursday May 12 at the Sligo Park Hotel at 8pm. The night is being sponsored by a number of local businesses including The Green Room, EJ Menswear, Monsoon and Jack and Jones.Also supporting is Tommy Hilfiger, O’Connell Street Sligo, where some of the St. John’s GAA team gathered recently to launch the event along with recently crowned Miss Universe Sligo, Natasha Carty. Top prize on the night is a 500 euro makeover sponsored by Tommy Hilfiger, Oonagh Doherty, Anthony Kilcoyne of Salon2 and Bistro Bianconi.The after show party is sponsored by McHugh’s Bar and Restaurant,Gratten Street, Sligo. St. John’s GAA club has been in existence for 24 years and caters for all age levels from under eight to seniors with mem event is a fundraiser bership in excess of 300.This which aims to cover the annualrunning costs of the to raise enough money club. Tickets are priced at 10 for adults and 5 for children and can be purchased from Canning’s House and Garden, EJ Menswear and Charles or on of Anthony the dooron the night.
Animation Festival returns to the Northwest LIGHTBOX, Ireland’s first ever Animation Festival, first staged in 2010, is set to return this month to the Cinemobile, which will be based in Quay Street Car Park.The event will run from May 6 to 8 and aims to show members of the public the strong position Irish animation holds both at home and internationally. The cinemobile, owned by cinema North West, is a 100 seater touring cin-
ema operated by filmmakers and film lovers who operate in the Northwest of Ireland screening world cinema, inde films. pendent and Irish feature Lightbox will be a space for animators, visual artists and live action filmmakers to come together with film fans to cele brate a wide diversity of animation. This year’s feature films include: My Dog Tulip, Chico & Rita and Mary & Max. Each one is unique in style and outlook. Among the shortfilm programmes will be the first ever retrospective of Frameworks, the now famous series of animation administered by the Irish Film Board, The Arts Council and RTE. For children there will be an animation workshop and the Irish premiere of Kooky - based on the ‘true story’ of a lost toy finding his way home. Kooky is a film for the children who love their toys and the parents who remember losing their own. A Lightbox music and dance party also takes place upstairs in McGarrigles Pub, Kids aged eight to 13 will be able to try O’Connell Street Sligo on Saturday May their hand at stop-motion animation talking place in The 7 at 10pm, with music from ‘Blow ins in with a workshop Model. Admission for the whole wind” a Bob Dylan Tribute Band. week- the for a day passto any of Tickets are 5 euro or free in with a end is 25 or 15 for a family of the three daysand 50 weekend pass. two adults and two kids. To go to an in- A ‘Show and Tell’ talk by three of Ire dividual screening it is 7 for an adult land’s animation practitioners returns For further infor 5 for children. year after becomingone of the most and this mation visit www.cinemanorthwest.com. popular events of last year’s Lightbox.
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The winner will be notified by mail and the winners name will be printed a future edition. Terms and conditions apply. Closing date for entries is 12th May 2011
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Temple House Festival, recently voted “Best New Festival” at the 2010 European Festival Awards, is shaping up to be the “Best Fest in the West” this summer with over 100 bands performing on 4 stages in the stunning grounds of the Temple House estate Friday 10th-12th June 2011.
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Castlebar Students named ‘Most Inspirational Team’
Fires Rage over Bank Holiday Weekend
UNITS of Sligo fire brigade were still continuing to fight bog and forest fires over a large area in the west of the county after the bank holiday weekend of fires that raged across the Northwest and around the country. The blaze in West Sligo began on Monday May 2 in the Dromore West/Culleens area and fire fighters worked through the night to try to contain it. 20 fire personnel were on duty along with a Coillte helicopter. On Tuesday, May 3, the Acting Donegal Chief Fire Officer Bobby McMenamin said the fire in Dungloe had been closed down and those in the Ardara/Glenties area were under control. The fire in the Mucklish Mountain burned on for longer but fire fighters managed to get it under control with 45 army personnel and two units of the fire brigade dealing with that blaze. The Defence Forces were drafted in as flames ripped through gorse and forest in the Doochary, Leitir and Dungloe areas of west Donegal amid speculation that the blazes were started deliberately.
Such was the extent of the inferno that the smoke was visible from space, and captured on a satellite image taken at 1.55pm on Sunday May 1. Two Air Corps helicopters, using 'bambi buckets' to scoop water from local lakes, dumped more than 100,000 litres of water on to the burning gorse and forest as the fire spread dangerously close to a residential area on Quay Road, on the outskirts of Dungloe. Officer McMenamin is still warning people to be very careful and not light any fires as the weather is still very dry and windy. The Defence Forces says troops are on standby elsewhere around the country to assist local authorities. Elsewhere around the country, emergency services were also tackling blazes in the Foxford and Pontoon areas of west Mayo; a gorse fire near Recess in the Inagh Valley, Co Galway; a number of bog fires near Tullamore, Co Offaly; a gorse fire at Bragan Mountain, Co Monaghan and a spokesman for Leitrim County Council said one house was destroyed in a fire in the Dromahair area.
Photo: The St Gerald’s College team of Paul McDonagh, Paul Murray, Luke Benson, Oisin Kyne, Adrian Murphy and Donnchadh Barry.
A team of six transition year students from Castlebar’s St. Gerald’s College have been named The Most Inspirational Team in the World at the FIRST LEGO League World Festival in St. Louis, Missouri, USA. The boys who travelled to the states earlier this week with their teacher, Declan Askin and a team of proud supporters from Co. Mayo are over the moon with their fantastic achievement. Now in its fourth year in Ireland, the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) LEGO League Robotics Challenge is an international competition which attracts 140,000 participants from 56 countries around the globe every year. It is a robotics programme for nine to 16 year olds, which is designed to get children excited about science and technology and teach them valuable employment skills.
The Castlebar boys were one of 88 teams who travelled from 28 countries all over the world to compete in the week long event. They had a busy week and were interviewed on a presentation about their core values; their inspiration, their teamwork and professionalism.They gave a five-minute highly pressured presentation on their project – an application which has attracted considerable attention in the industry to date, and a further presentation on their robot design, programming and construction. The Mayo schoolboys came through this rigorous series of tests with flying colours, with their app and their core values presentation winning them particular praise. Bernard Kirk, Director of The Galway Education Centre who brought the competition to Ireland, also travelled to the US to support the team.
All Houses to face 175 Water Charge IRISH householders will have to pay up to 175 in water charges within the next two years, according to The Irish Independent. It was recently revealed that a government plan to introduce water rates is to be brought forward in the form of a flat rate annual fee, because a target to have water meters fitted in all homes by next year has not been met. Now it seems that the fee will be in the region of 175, with the expectation that the charge will not be means tested according to household income. The introduction of water charges marks a uturn in the Fine Gael/Labour programme for government. It had been promised that water charges would only come in when meters had been installed country wide, but under the terms of the EU/IMF bailout, the state must start
charging for water by 2013 at the latest.The meters will take four years to install in all Irish households, but the work has not yet begun. Ireland is one of the only countries in the EU not to charge households for water. The State spends more than 500m a year treating water for domestic use, something the EU/IMF insists must change. However, the Government will likely face stiff opposition to get a charging system in place.The charge cannot be considered an environmental tax aimed at encouraging conservation if consumption cannot be measured. If a household of two people has to pay the same as a household of six, there would be no incentive to reduce use. A government source told The Irish Independent that they are “absolutely locked” into the EU/IMF deal.
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despite concerns raised by local residents. Road safety experts and community groups have been warning that inappropriately high speed limits, coupled with the absence of stop and yield signs, are to blame for many fatal crashes. The order to review the speed limits and the location of the signs displaying them is contained in a circular sent to every city and county manager by the Department of Transport. It carries photographic examples of signs erected "on sections of road not capable of being driven at the posted speed limit". In one picture, two 80kmh signs are posted on either side of a narrow, potholed road just before a bad bend. In another photograph, where a regional road is about to join a national road, two signs on the regional road display 100kmh, the limit on the national road.
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Councils ordered to remove high speed limit signs on rural roads LOCAL authorities including Leitrim County Council have been ordered to take down high speed-limit signs on dangerous stretches of road.They've also been told to remove any speed-limit signs which may confuse drivers or increase the risk of crashing. In particular, they must get rid of the default 80kmh sign on roads clearly dangerous at such speeds. Speed-limit signs like these at dangerous junctions must be replaced with stop or yield signs. Many 'boreens' and back roads around the Northwest and the rest of the country carry the 80kmh sign at or just before treacherous bends,
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Celebration Time at Ballina Arts Centre
IN A CELEBRATARY MOOD: Ballina Lions members Gerry Jordan, Danny Greham, Oliver Murphy (President) and Frank Doyle at the Ballina Arts Centre Preview Evening.
IT was Celebration Time at Ballina Arts Centre’s Preview Evening on Friday last when some of the project’s supporters and sponsors were given a tour of the facilities at its riverside location at Barrett Street.
Guests were given a guided tour of the ‘state of the art’ premises which includes a 240-seat auditorium (overlooking a large, impressive stage), a purpose-built dance studio, print-making studio, rehearsal space, coffee shop, work-
shop areas and visual arts gallery space. The centre provides stunning views, overlooking the Moy river. Speaking to an enthusiastic gathering Mayor Frances McAndrew, Chairman of the fund-raising committee, thanked all the sponsors and supporters for their help in bringing the arts centre development to fruition and paid tribute to director Sean Walsh for his work and dedication. Ballina’s recently elected TD, Michelle Mulherin, an ardent supporter of the arts centre project, paid tribute to the trojan work of all involved and pledged her commitment to the continuing development of the facility and the arts in Ballina. Arts Centre director Sean Walsh thanked all the staff and volunteers and provided a preview of the many exciting events scheduled for the opening season. Firstly there is Hughie O’Sullivan’s ‘North Mayo Retrospect,’ opening this Thursday , 5th May, which promises to be one of the visual highlights of the year. On the musical side, a variety of artistes and styles will be appearing from May to July.These include Camille O’Sullivan, Dublin City Jazz Orchestra, the Chamber Philharmonic Europe Orchestra,Andy Irvine, Finbar Furey and many others. Film enthusiasts can enjoy a Stanley Kubrick retrospective, as well as Sound+Vision, the annual film festival which celebrates music in film. Some great theatre and dance shows are in the pipeline. Also performing during the opening season will be some talented local groups including DanceWorld, Mayo Youth Theatre, the Moy Singers, Stephen Doyle and Lavinia Gilmartin’s All-Star Academy. The building, though beautiful architecturally, is also practical; praise must go to architect Kevin Keegan for achieving this. Ballina and North Mayo can be justly proud of its new, redeveloped arts centre.
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Show you care by taking part in Sligo Mini Marathon
THE Sligo Carer’s Association Mini Marathon takes place on Sunday May 29 and the organisers are inviting people to get involved in this fun, family-friendly event for a great cause. The Carer’s Association provides practical and emotional support to carers looking after seriously ill children, frail older relatives or other incapacitated members of their families. With the support of people from Sligo and the Northwest the Carer’s Association can ensure carers are not alone in facing the challenge of what can sometimes be a stressful and isolating role. The Sligo Mini Marathon takes place over a 10k flat scenic route around Rosses Point and promises to be a fun day out. To show your support for Ireland’s 161,000 carers who give their lives to care for others, simply fill out the registration form below and send it with a cheque or postal order for 15 to The Carer’s Association, 3 Mail Coach Road, Sligo.You can also register online on www.runireland.com or www.carersireland.com. Closing date for entries is Thursday May 26. The event takes place at 12 noon from the Radisson Hotel, Rosses Point, on Sunday May 29.
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Michelle launches Sponsored Cycle on her pink bike!
A sponsored cycle in aid of the Fr. Peyton Centre was launched by Michelle Mulherin T.D. on Friday 8th April last. The launch was also attended by Dara Calleary T.D., Mayo Co. Councillors, members of the Mayo Association in Dublin, members of the Ballina cycling club and pupils from Attymass National School. The Sponsored cycle will take place on 24th & 25th June next from Dublin to Attymass. It on will begin at the Lucan Spa Hotel in Dublin
Friday 24th June at 10.00 a.m. and travel to Rathowen where a “Mayo Evening” of entertainment and accommodation will be organised in Ferrick’s Hotel.The following morning – Saturday 25th, the sponsored cycle will head for On arrival at the Fr. Peyton Centre Attymass. in Attymass awelcome reception will await the cyclists. A pack containing sponsorship cards, a train necessary information ing schedule and other
SLIGO FIELD CLUB 3nd Summer Conference
Celebrating Sligo:
FOR several years Sligo Field Club has organised a weekend Celebrating Sligo conference with the objective of increasing its contribution to the promotion and protection of the archaeological, historical and cultural heritage of Sligo, the primary aims of Sligo Field Club. This year, for the first time, the conference topic will have an international connection and several international speakers. The Scottish Connection celebrates the continuous cultural two-way connections of Sligo and the Irish Northwest with the Scottish traditions of Ul Scotland; tombs; the Columban ster and with portal link between Drumcliff and Iona; King Robert Bruce, the Galloglass and the dynasties of the Irish Northwest; Scottish family genealogy in the work of Mac Ulster settlement Fhir Bhisigh; Scots and in Sligo and North Connacht; divergent and similar musical cultural traditions; and the sport and nationalism asso ciated with more recent migration. Sligo Field Club will hold this conference at the Glasshouse Hotel, Sligo on 6th – 8th May. Further details from Pat O’Brien at 087 1304843 or peo or from brien@gmail.com www.sligofieldclub.ie.
for the event is available in the Fr. Peyton Centre. We do realise that is quiet a long distance to cycle and that many hours of training are necessary prior to this undertaking.We are also encouraging people who would like to take part in the sponsored cycle but for various reasons could only complete a stage of the journey to join in and raise funds for the Fr. Peyton Centre. Noel Howley of Howley Distribution Services Ltd. will arrange to transport cyclists and their bikes to Dublin for the start of the spon sored cycle. A mini bus and cars will travel on days with the cyclists for back-up support. both The Fundraiser is to assist with the continuation of the social and community services being provided by the Fr. Peyton Centre.Those services are a one day per week social activity day for the senior citizens of Attymass, Bonniconlon and lower Foxford, also a “meals-onwheels” service for the catchment area. Both services are greatly appreciated by the participants and recipients. By providing those worthwhile services we are extending a hand of friendship and caring to the elderly. For the Fr. Peyton Centre this social service is a big part of our caring and hospitality ministry. Cen This is the first time thatthe Fr. Peyton fundraiser tre have organised a sponsorship in aid of its social and religious services. Like all other charitable organisations the Centre has been affected by the Pobal and HSE grant cuts. for your support We are actively looking as a cyclist or to sponsor a cyclist. This is an ideal opportunity for cycling enthusiasts to take part in a great fitness programme and in doing so Centre. help to raise funds for the Fr. Peyton For further information call Fr. Peyton Centre 096 45374 Email ppmc@eircom.net
Nos ar work with Our an tSionann Sean Lady's Children's Hospital
SLIGO FIELD CLUB SUMMER CONFERENCE: THE SCOTTISH CONNECTION
The Scottish connection
The Scottish Connection is a conference to celebrate the continuous cultural two-way connections of Sligo and the Irish Northwest with the Scottish traditions of Ulster and with Scotland; portal tombs; the Columban link between Drumcliff and Iona; King Robert Bruce, the Galloglass and the dynasties of the Irish Northwest; Scottish family genealogy in the work of Mac Fhir Bhisigh; Scots and Ulster settlement in Sligo and North Connacht; Eleanor has been touring with Frankie Lane SEAN Nós ar an tSionann, finalists in this divergent and similar musical cultural traditions; and the sport and year’s All Ireland Talent Show, are holding a and Paul Kelly for the past three years in Aus of Our Lady's Chil- tria, Switzerland, Italy, Denmark and, of course fundraising concert in aid nationalism associated with recent migration. and Scots-Irish. Who do we think we are? Irish, Scots
to 8th May 2011 All are Welcome on the 6th at The Glasshouse Hotel, Sligo
dren's Hospital, Crumlin in the RoyalTheatre Castlebar on Saturday 14th May. This lively sean nós dance group, who come from Sligo, Leitrim and Roscommon, repre sented Daithi O Se and the West and had their prize pledged to donate 10,000 of money to the hospital had they won they show. Despite not winning the show this year, they have decided to raise as much money as they can by holding a fundraising concert with the help of their musical friends and some of Irelands most talented acts. "We're very excited about the acts that are coming to perform on the night. Anyone we asked to take part said yes straight away. Especially the Royal Theatre who have given us the venue free of charge for the night in support of the hospital. Organising this concert has taken a lot of work but fingers and toes crossed it will be a huge success" said group member Michael O' Rourke Eleanor Shanley, Frankie Lane and Paul Kelly are some of the main acts on the night.
Conference Fee: 60 / Individual Lectures: 10 each
Details: Pat O’Brien: Ballygawley, Co. Sligo. 087 1304843 peobrien@gmail.com Updates: www.sligofieldclub.ie
Ireland. Also appearing on the night will be the All Ireland Champions Dartry Ceili Band, accordion player and singer Seamus Begley, guitarist Jim Murray and Ballina Boys Patrick Lacken and Cian Harrison, otherwise known as Politically Correct, who shot to fame when they entered The All Ireland Talent Show. Concert organisers Sean Nós ar an tSionann will also perform on the night with some energetic sean nos routines. The group range in age from eight to 26 years old. Oldest members Edwina Guckian and Michael O Rourke have toured the world teaching sean nos dancing and performing. A monster raffle will also be held on the night with prizes for tickets for shows in the INEC Killarney, family breaks in hotels, Ireland and family passes to events and parks all over Ireland. TICKETS are 25 and are available from ticketmaster.ie, the Royal Theatre box office or any Sean Nos ar an tSionann members.
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MY WEIGHT LOSS JOURNEY “The toughest part of a diet isn't watching what you eat. It's watching what other people eat” What is Nutron Advanced? Nutron Advanced uses the Alcat test to identify reactions to over 200 foods, chemicals and other substances associated with inflammation that are linked to chronic health problems like migraines, aching joints, fatigue, gastrointestinal disorders, eczema, hyperactivity/ADD, asthma and even obesity. Their goal is to provide clients with accurate, timely and dependable test results and nutritional support services. It is not so much a diet but a list of foods that do and don’t agree with a person. To find out what foods do and don’t agree with you a simple blood test was carried out on me in their clinic in Castlebar. After ten days I went back to Liz O Malley for the results and she had a chart which identified which foods I had a mild intolerance to, a moderate intolerance to and a severe intolerance to. Then there is a green list which is completely ok for me to stick to. See attached chart.The test also showed up that there was a Candida Albicans in my system. So basically the whole idea is eat the food that agrees with your system and stay away from ones that can make you bloated and tired.
Week
Date
Weight
Lbs -/+ Total Lost
1
17/11 21st 10lb
-8lb
8lb
2
24/11
21st 3lb
-7lb
1st 1lb
3
1/12
21st 5lb
+2lb
13 lb
4
8/12
20st 14lb
-5lb
1st 4lb
5
15/12
20st 9lb
-5lb
1st 9lb
6
22/12 20st 11lb
+2lb
1st 7lb
7
29/12
21st 5lb
+8lb
13lb
8
5/01
21st 2lb
-3lb
1st 2lb
9
12/01 20st 10lb
-6lb
1st 8lb
10
19/01
20st 8lb
-2lb
1st 10lb
11
26/01
20st 4lb
-4lb
2st 0lb
12
02/02
20st 2lb
-2lb
2st 2lb
13
09/02
20st 1lb
-1lb
2st 3lb
14
16/02 19st 13b
-2lb
2st 5lb
15
25/02
20st 1lb
+2lb
2st 3lb
16
05/03
20st 3lb
+2lb
2st 1lb
17
11/03
20st 0lb
-3lb
2st 1lb
18
18/03
-
-
-
19
25/03
-
-
-
20
1/04
-
-
-
21
8/04
20st 2lb
+2lb
2st 2lb
22
15/04
20st 1lb
-1lb
2st 3lb
23
22/04
-
-
-
24
29/04
20st 0lb
-1lb
2st 4lb
If you have any questions relating to NuTron Advanced please visit www.nutronadvanced.com or contact Kathryn on 091 797803 or 087 2219692
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fascinated with the royal N recent weeks the world has become day that was May 29th. big the to n oach a way of living in theMcappr Gow endured much ael y of the United Kingdom have The Royal hier Micharch this was but ns ratio gene nt rece in criticism and indeed praise the red ente on dlet set to reach a new level as the Kate Mid Windsor family. Middleton, classified as a ‘comPrince Williams engagement to Kate a multi-million pound enterown moner’ despite the fact her family the couple had been prise was announced in November. As an expected advancement together for almost nine years this was it may have seemed like the in their relationship. However, although it was set to be the first pair obvious step for the young, besotted and would marry a comtime a direct heir to the throne of Engl rly Queen Elizabeth who icula moner. The royal Windsor family part s the throne has long been despite her ever-advancing age still hold and elitist characteristics. associated with condescending, superior surely symbolises that the Yet, Williams’s decision to marryEuKate g e n e Mu y to change? Willing to relle younger generations are willing and read G y and striving toinatens&toda move the social segregation that dom tyle. rainne Quee lifes est nan mod mal wards leading a near-nor ury society Ireland many cent 21st in even that nt mea has History ards the British monarchy. Due still have strong feelings of unease tow ic island for too long, somAeishng to the devastation that plagued our idyllle to forgive this prestigiolius Irish citizens are still unwilling and unab family. the criticism. Certainly in the Yet I don’t think they truly deserve all decisions and actions but as past Britain has made some catastrophic past must be allowed to the time progresses we must realise that the present and look torace emb t mus we become history and
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Timm wards the future in a manner that will y McG enable us ato y ath, Oeful, balanced world. nd enjo The Royal Family of England undoubtedl Joe Q a rpeac llie Go y lead a privilegeudeelifes ra nan tyle yet dorece survey showed that over 90% of the n nt online UK’s population does not desire such Round-the-clock security, endless pub a lic engagements and severely strict dreslife. mean the lives of the Windsor family are decided solely by earlier generatio s codes Kate Middleton may have the luxury of a personal hair stylist, a 16-bedroomns. home and will never have to cook a mea ‘summer’ l if she never lead such a free, self-determiningso wishes but from Friday on she will life Williams’s girlfriend Kate was required as she enjoyed before. As and maintain a clean public image but to attend certain Royal Functions she could also continue working for her family business and enjoy regular nigh “Duchess of Cambridge” Katherine will ts out with her friends. As now be accompanied by her personal bodyguard at all times and will become a target for the worlds prying media. However, by marrying her Prince, Kate the future that lay ahead of her as a mar realised and accepted ried Likewise Harry, who is said to have inhe woman. Princess Dianas’ love for life, struggle rited his late mother s to sires. As a 26-year old Harry has appa lead the life he derent headache at the palace. Akin to any youn ly caused much joys nights out with his friends and pho g man, Harry entoo willing to capture him leaving nigh tographers are only tionship with Chelsy Davy, a South-A tclubs. His on-off relafrican working law student is also a new experience for the roya ls. Harry and William, like many of their them, have taken up posts in the arm male ancestors before y. ronment they are reportedly equals, Within this working envicare about their country. William has young men who genuinely serve as a pilot following his marriage insisted he will continue to while Harry is ever-active in volunteering overseas. These are two young men, who have had to suffer the tragic death of their mother so young and have been tory and expectations, yet have remaine born into a family with such hisIf Harry and William are symbols of the d modest and sincere. future of the British regal family then undoubtedly within a matter of year Windsor’s are set to become a renowne s it will be unrecognisable. The hold much status yet for the first time d historic family who will always and engage with the life of the British , although long overdue, will realise citizen. 2billion worldwide spectators, 1900 invit ed guests, a declared Public Holiday, £20million cost to the Palace, a 1036 Cartier tiara, a cake made of 900 suga paste flowers and £44million merchan r dise spread attention but it was the 29-year- sales may have attracted widethe altar and stunning Kate Middleton’s old Prince William with his joking at trembling hands that captured the hearts of the world. Michael Joh
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on John Gord
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Recipe for Beautiful Feet
2 taIf you take 1 cup Lemon Juice, Cinnamon (for smell), you water and milk, of cup 1/4 oil, olive blespoons (or less) (the nt fragra and hed refres skin leaves that can make a wash matnot does amount of water ter). If you do not like the cinnamon smell you can replace it with another spice, perfume, or flower petals such as roses. After you make it, you can put it in a tub were you can soak your feet or your body. Next dry your feet or rinse them with water and a MILD soap.
Take Care of Your Hair
in While oil is not the elixir of life to hair, it is essential oil Leave e. suppl and d keeping it well conditione overnight and wash in the morning with shampoo to get better results. Heat a little amount of oil (olive oil, almond oil, or plain old coconut oil) by placing it in a small container and swirling it in hot water. After the oil gets considerably hot, massage the scalp with your fingertips, in rotating motion, for at least 8 - 10 minutes.
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Inventor of the autocue dies at 91
science news & technology
Satnav makes drivers lose their sense of direction
HUBERT "Hub" Schlafly, a key member of the team that invented the autocue and rescued soap stars, broadcasters and politicians from the embarrassment of stumbling over their words on live television, has died at 91. Mr Schlafly died at Stamford Hospital, Connecticut, on April 20, after a brief illness, according to the Leo P Gallagher & Son Funeral Home, which handled the arrangements. His funeral was held on Tuesday in Greenwich, where he was a long-time resident. He did not use a teleprompter - the US name for autocue - himself until he was 88, while rehearsing his speech for induction into the Cable Television Hall of Fame, said Thomas Gallagher, a close friend. Mr Schlafly helped start the TelePrompTer Corporation, eventually becoming its president and accepting an Emmy Award for the company in 1999 - a few years after winning one himself 1992 for his work in developing the first cable system permitting subscribers to order special programmes. He held 16 patents, Mr Gallagher said. "Hub Schlafly was the cable industry's most innovative engineer and, at the same time, one of its ablest executives," Charles Dolan, chairman of Cablevision, said. "Whether you were his friend or competitor, he was always congenial and supportive and probably had more friends than anyone." St Louis-born Mr Schlafly graduated from Notre Dame University, where he studied electrical engineering. He worked for General Electric and the MIT Radiation Laboratory before joining 20th Century Fox in New York City in 1947. Actor Fred Barton Jr wanted a way to remember his lines and approached Irving Berlin Kahn, the nephew of composer Irving Berlin and vice president of radio and television at 20th Century Fox. Mr Kahn went to Mr Schlafly, then the director of television research. The result was a monitor facing the person appearing on screen and rolling a script at reading speed - was named the TelePrompTer, which made its debut in 1950 on the soap opera The First Hundred Years, Mr Brown said."It revolutionised television and improved the quality of on-air performers," said Jim Dufek, a professor of mass media at Southeast Missouri State University. "It also made the politicians look smarter because they were looking right into the camera."
RESEARCH by a scientist from the University of Dundee has revealed that drivers are losing their natural sense of direction because they are too reliant on satnav systems. Dr Rosamund Langston, a lecturer in behavioural neuroscience, said that growing use of the devices was creating a 'Hansel and Gretel generation' of drivers who would be completely lost without one. She claims that drivers who keep one eye on the satnav screen rather than looking for familiar signs and reminders are losing their innate 'caveman' ability to work out where they are. Speaking to the 'Daily Mail', Dr Langston said: "We seem to have some innate directional awareness which is 'hard wired' into our brains from birth. "But we also found that another significant part of the brain's ability to find its way around comes from our knack of memorising experiences from the places we have been previously." She went on to describe how plotting a route on a map is very
different to being led by a satnav or any other electronic device, as drivers subconsciously absorb directions when they figure out a journey for themselves.
"For instance, if you starting a new job and you take time aside the week before to plan the route, drive it and try to remember it, then you're going to be better equipped
to do it unaided. "If you've driven it ten times just following the flashing arrow on a satnav, you're probably going to get lost half way there on your own."
'SETI alien phone' hangs up on ET A field of radio dishes that look like giant dinner plates have waited for years in the mountains of
Northern California for the first call from intelligent life among the stars.
But they are not listening any more because cash-strapped governments, it seems, can no longer pay the interstellar phone bill. Astronomers at the SETI Institute said a steep drop in state and government funds has forced the shutdown of the Allen Telescope Array, a powerful tool in the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, an effort scientists refer to as SETI. The 42 radio dishes had scanned deep space since 2007 for signals from alien civilisations while also conducting research into the structure and origin of the universe. The shutdown came just as researchers were preparing to point the radio dishes at a batch of new planets. About 50 or 60 of those planets appear to be about the right distance from stars to have temperatures that could make them habitable, says Seth Shostak, senior astronomer at the institute. "There's plenty of cosmic real estate that looks promising," he said. "We've lost the instrument that's best for zeroing in on these better
targets." SETI Institute chief executive Tom Pierson said in an email to donors last week that the University of California, Berkeley, had run out of money for day-to-day operation of the dishes. "Unfortunately, today's government budgetary environment is very difficult, and new solutions must be found," Mr Pierson wrote. The 50 million-dollar (£30 million) array was built by SETI and UC Berkeley with the help of a £18 million donation from Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen. Operating the dishes cost about £909,000 a year, mostly to pay for the staff of eight to 10 researchers and technicians to operate the facility. An additional £606,000 a year was needed to collect and sift the data from the dishes. The Paul G Allen Family Foundation, the billionaire's philanthropic venture, had no immediate plans to provide more funding, said David Postman, a foundation spokesman.
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Para-glider 'chutes' over border
w rldnews Toyota cuts car production
Do You Have any news or views for us? email: info@theexpress.ie
JAPANESE car maker Toyota has been forced to slash production in the UK after the devastating earthquake in its home country. Essential parts manufactured in Japan are in seriously short supply, which is hindering car production across the globe. From May 3, Toyota's factory in Bunaston, Derby, will operate for only three half days a week - one and a half days in total. The plant will shut completely for two days a week and the reduction is expected to last until at least the end of May. Toyota is also planning to cut production at its factories in the US and China by as much as 70 percent until June. The company has estimated that a shortfall of around half a million new cars will result from the shutdowns. Toyota isn't the only car manufacturer to be affected by the devastation in Japan. Mitsubishi, Nissan and Honda have also been suffering from parts shortages and similar hold-ups. Nissan's UK factory in Sunderland will close for over a week between the bank holidays, starting on Good Friday (tomorrow). It is scheduled to reopen and begin production again on May 3.Honda has also halved production at its UK plant in Swindon.
A hapless para-glider suffered a blow - when a gust of wind took him off course and landed him on top of a police border observation tower. Wolfgang Dorner, 43, from Feldbach, Austria, was left dangling 100ft up in the air when his chute and lines became snagged on the structure on the wrong side of the border in neighbouring Slovenia. "He wasn't badly injured but he was very embarrassed and a bit nervous," said one firefighter. "It was a shock for him but not as big as the shock he gave the border guards he landed on. "But he was a bit worried because while he was waiting for us the lines holding him up were snapping one by one so he was very relieved to see us," they added.
Flag tattoos promote world peace
AN Indian businessman has had the flags of more than 300 countries tattooed on his body to promote world peace. Har Prakash, who also likes to call himself Guinness Rishi, has 305 flags and 185 maps of countries tattooed on his body and is planning more in a world record bid. "People call me a joker, a mad man. It doesn't bother me," he told the Mumbai Mirror. Prakash, an auto parts manufacturer from New Delhi, started getting tattoos on his body in 2009. He is currently in Kathmandu, Nepal, for an international tattoo conference. While there, he plans to get more flags inked on his body and create a new world record but he says his real ambition is to promote friendship between nations. "My dream is to go around the world several times," he said. "I want the children of those countries to ask me, where is the flag of our country, spot it and then, in the process, become aware of my country and other countries as well." As well as tattoos, he is also keen on getting his name in the record books. His 22 records include the longest will in the world and delivering a pizza from New Delhi to San Francisco.
Sex toy triggers police alert Police called to a flat in Berlin by a neighbour who complained someone was using an electric drill in the middle of the night smashed down the door to find a sex toy. The vibrator had switched itself on and was jiggling around on the floor, according to a report in the Berlin Kurier newspaper. Officers who answered the desperate call of the neighbour tried to contact the 23-year-old woman whose flat it was But they could not get a response, and eventually decided to break in the door in an attempt to find out what was going on inside. "You could hear the noise out on the street," one neighbour was quoted as saying. The woman now faces a bill for the smashed door - and some funny looks from her neighbours - when she returns home.
Two-headed calf shocks owner A Chinese grandmother collapsed with shock when her cow gave birth to a twoheaded calf. Dong Yubao, 65, of Gaoyang village, northern China's Hebei Province, said his wife Li Chunhua, 60,was helping the cow give birth. "My wife and a neighbour were in the barn to help the cow through labour," he said. "The calf came out - heads first - and my wife fell to the floor when she saw the two heads and four eyes." Dong
said the cow had previously been a mother many times and her calves had all been healthy and normal. "I can't understand why she produced such a weird calf this time," he added. The calf's two heads point in almost opposite directions. Both heads have their own eyes, nose and mouth but only three ears between them.Dong said the twoheaded calf can't stand unaided so his 16-year-old granddaughter Jinfeg is bottle-feeding it with sheep milk.
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naturalhealth
The information provided to you on this page is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical advice and it is important that you do not make medical decisions without first consulting your doctor or other healthcare professional.
What is Peptic Ulcer Disease? by Megan Fennell
acid reducer. • Loss of appetite and weight loss. • Bloating or nausea after eating. • Vomiting. • Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds. • Passing black stools that look like tar, or stools that contain dark red blood. Different people have different symptoms, and some people have no symptoms at all. How are peptic ulcers diagnosed? Your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms and your general health, and he or she will do a physical exam. If your symptoms are not severe and you are younger than 55, your doctor may do some simple tests (using your blood, breath, or stool) to look for signs of H. pylori infection. What is a peptic ulcer? A peptic ulcer is a sore in the inner lining of the stomach or upper small intestine (duodenum). Ulcers develop when the intestine or stomach's protective layer is broken down. When this happens, digestive juices can damage the intestine or stomach tissue. These strong juices, which contain hydrochloric acid and an enzyme called pepsin, also can injure the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that leads from your throat to your stomach. Peptic ulcers are no longer a condition that most people have to live with their entire lives. Treatment cures most ulcers. And symptoms go away quickly. Peptic ulcers that form in the stomach are called gastric ulcers. Those that form in the upper small intestine are called duodenal ulcers.
What causes peptic ulcers? The two most common causes of peptic ulcers are: • Infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria. • Use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). H. pylori and NSAIDs break down the stomach or intestine’s protective mucus layer. The mucus layer prevents digestive juices from damaging the stomach and intestine. What are the symptoms? Symptoms include: • A burning, aching, gnawing pain between the belly button (navel) and the breastbone. Some people also have back pain. The pain can last from a few minutes to a few hours and may come and go for weeks. • Pain that usually goes away for a while after you take an antacid or
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The only way for you and your doctor to know for sure if you have an ulcer is to do a more complicated test, called an endoscopy, to look for an ulcer and to test for H. pylori infection. An endoscopy allows the doctor to look inside your esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. An endoscopy is usually done by a gastroenterologist, a doctor who specializes in digestive diseases.
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S.T.O.P. is a registered charity which was set up to assist and support individuals who feel suicidal, are in distress or those who have been bereaved by suicide. Currently S.T.O.P. provide the following services • Provides bereavement support through a suicide bereavement group which meets monthly.
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coming back. Ignoring symptoms of an ulcer is not a good idea. This condition needs to be treated. While symptoms can go away for a short time, you may still have an ulcer. Left untreated, an ulcer can cause life-threatening problems. Even with treatment, some ulcers may come back and may need more treatment.
How are they treated? To treat peptic ulcers, most people need to take medicines that reduce the amount of acid in the stomach. If you have an H. pylori infection, you will also need to take antibiotics. If your doctor prescribes antibiotics to treat your infection, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You
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need to take the full course of antibiotics. It is much more likely that the infection will be cured if you take all the antibiotics.You can help speed the healing of your ulcer and prevent it from coming back if you quit smoking and limit alcohol. Continued use of medicines such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen may increase the chance of your ulcer
• Support and outreach to those bereaved by suicide. • Promotes positive mental health and related issues by attending information evenings and also visiting (when requested) schools, communities and organisations throughout Ireland. • Counselling for those who are feeling suicidal / depressed or have been bereaved by suicide.
If you feel that you could benefit from any of the above support please call Mary on 087-4188053.
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25 Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease By Megan Is it Alzheimer’s? Everyone struggles to come up with a name once in a while. But how can you tell if it’s more serious? “One symptom alone does not necessarily indicate that a person has Alzheimer’s or dementia,” says Raj C. Shah, MD, of the Rush Memory Clinic at Rush University Medical Center, in Chicago. (Dementia is chronic loss of cognition, usually affecting memory, and Alzheimer’s causes 50% to 80% of dementia cases.) There are many other causes of memory loss, including vitamin B12 deficiency, and brain, thyroid, kidney, or liver disorders. However, having several other symptoms could be a sign of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Recognizing the signs of dementia can help lead to a quicker diagnosis.
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Memory loss Serious memory loss and confusion are not a normal part of aging. But forgetfulness caused by stress, anxiety, or depression can be mistaken for dementia, especially in someone who is older. “We all forget the exact details of a conversation or what someone told us to do, but a person with AD will forget what just happened, what someone just said, or what he or she just said and therefore repeat things over and over again,” says Lisa P. Gwyther, coauthor of The Alzheimer’s Action Plan: A Family Guide. Memory loss isn’t consistent, and people with AD may forget the dog’s name one day and remember it the next.“Nothing is certain or predictable with most dementias except they do progress,” says Gwyther. Agitation and mood swings It’s common for someone suffering from AD to seem anxious or agitated. They may constantly move around and pace, get upset in certain places, or become fixated on specific details.Agitation usually results from fear, confusion, fatigue, and feeling overwhelmed from trying to make sense of a world that no longer makes sense, explains Gwyther. Certain circumstances can also make the individual more anxious, such as relocating to a nursing home. In addition to agitation, rapid and seemingly unprovoked mood swings are another sign of dementia—going from calm to tearful to angry for no apparent reason. Don’t recognize family and friends As AD progresses, your loved one may not always recognize you or other family members and friends, which can be heart-breaking. “Recognition does come and go for a while,”
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says Gwyther. “In general, people forget what they just learned or whom they just met, then friends, and family last. But sometimes it’s hard to explain why someone remembers one child’s name and not another. Well-practiced memories and stories last longer than newer ones, but in the very late stages, people may only remember their parents.” Difficulty with familiar tasks A person suffering from dementia often takes longer to complete, and may have trouble finishing, everyday tasks that he or she has done hundreds of times before. For instance, a former whiz in the kitchen may have a problem making his or her signature dish or even remembering how to boil water. Common activities like remembering how to get to a familiar location, play a favourite game, or manage a budget may also prove difficult. Getting diagnosed Even if someone has Alzheimer’s, it doesn’t mean his or her life is over; a person with AD can live a meaningful and productive life for many years, but it’s important to get a proper diagnosis. People often wait too long to seek help, says Dr. Shah. “Most diagnoses are still made in the moderate stage, after most individuals have been experiencing symptoms for years already,” says Dr. Shah. “It doesn’t help the person or family to wait until symptoms become so obvious that the diagnosis can be easily made. It is better to seek an evaluation earlier to help maintain quality of life and to prevent social or medical crises due to memory loss.” For more signs and symptoms go to health.com.
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The History of U2 blast past By Megan Fennell
U2
formed in Dublin in the fall of 1976 after 14-year-old Larry Mullen, Jr. posted a note on the bulletin board at his high school seeking musicians for a new band. From the group of hopefuls that showed up at Mullen's home that first day, a five-piece known originally as "Feedback" formed with Mullen (born October 31, 1961) on drums, Adam Clayton (born March 13, 1960) on bass, Paul Hewson (later nicknamed "Bono Vox" and eventually just "Bono", born May 10, 1960) on vocals, and Dave Evans (later nicknamed "The Edge", born August 8, 1961) on guitar. Dave's brother, Dick, also played guitar for a while, but left Feedback very early on to join another Dublin band, the Virgin Prunes. After nearly 18 months of rehearsing, the band's big break came at a talent show in Limerick, Ireland, in March, 1978. With CBS Records' Jackie Hayden judging, U2 (they had just changed their name again) won the contest, earning a ÂŁ500 prize and studio time to record their first demo. Shortly after the talent show contest, the band con-
vinced a Dublin businessman named Paul McGuinness to manage them. Now out of school, the band played as many shows as possible in and around Dublin, trying to build up a local fan base. In September, 1979, U2 released its first single, an Irish-only release called "U2:3" which topped the national charts. In December of that year, U2 travelled to London for its first shows outside Ireland, but struggled to get attention from music fans and critics.
U2 enjoyed its first international success with the 1983 release of War, U2's third album. An all-out attack against the keyboard- and drum machine-based songs that made up the song and
album charts, War featured the band's most aggressive song-writing to date in both music and lyrics. For the first time, Bono addressed the long-standing "troubles" in Northern Ireland with the song "Sunday, Bloody Sunday." Fearful to be seen as taking one side over another, he insisted on introducing the song during concerts by saying "This is NOT a rebel song!", and wrapped himself in a white flag while he sang it, to symbolize the song's call for peace. The album's first single, "New Year's Day," was U2's first legitimate hit single, reaching the #10 spot on the UK charts and almost cracking the Top 50 in the U.S. MTV put the song's video into heavy rota-
from the
tion, and helped introduce U2 to a new audience of fans. Greatness arrived in 1987, with the release of U2's fifth studio album, The Joshua Tree. U2 had delivered a record that caught them at their musical and lyrical peak, finally comfortable with the "rock band with a conscience" label they first encountered with the War album four years earlier. In the spiritual and moral desert that had become the U.S. of the mid-1980s, U2 stood out by bringing meaning and passion to its music. Bono tackled his contradictory feelings about America in "Bullet the Blue Sky" and "In God's Country." Biblical images showed up throughout the record as Bono
questioned faith, social injustices, governmental oppression, terrorism, and drug addiction. The album debuted at #1 in the U.K., and quickly reached #1 in the U.S. The songs "With or Without You" and "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For" gave U2 its first #1 singles in the U.S. Even TIME magazine put U2 on its cover, declaring the band "Rock's Hottest Ticket." The Joshua Tree tour sold out stadiums around the world. U2 had become the biggest band in the world. After taking time off from the band and each other, U2 joined forces again in Berlin in late 1990 to begin work on their next studio album. They were working again with the familiar duo of Brian Eno and Daniel Lanois, but these recording sessions were anything but comfortable. Recognizing they had to "go away and dream it all up again," -- as Bono promised during a Dublin concert before the turn of the decade in late 1989 -- U2 struggled to forge a new sound and a new identity together. But in November, 1991, the new U2 delivered Achtung Baby, an album that Bono would describe as "the sound of four men chopping down The Joshua Tree." U2 began work on its next studio album in early 1996, with an eye toward releasing the record later that year. The band admitted its desire to incorporate the electronic sounds of bands such as Prodigy and The Chemical Brothers into U2's vision of late '90s rock and roll. Even though the album was pushed back to early 1997, pieces of a couple tracks were leaked and distributed by fans around the globe via the Internet. The brief sample that circulated of "Discotheque", which was already known to be the first single, only reinforced the rumor that U2 were trying to make a dance record.
Did you know?
Word Puzzle!
Here is a game that you can play to test your skill. This game will present you with a matrix filled with letters. The objective is to form words by concatenating adjacent letters. Letters that are to the left, right, on top, bottom, or on a diagonal to each other are all acceptable.
SAMPLE PUZZLE Here are some words that can be found in this sample matrix: any chant panel path trench Here are some words that are not valid in this puzzle: chance - uses the 'c' twice chaps - 's' is not adjacent
PUZZLE TIME ACROSS
by Megan Fennell
Tough little planet we live on
WIN! 25
1. Bond an alternative way in West Cork angling centre, with much of archaeological interest. (6) 3. Ever a lad in turmoil, he founded Fianna Fáil in 1926 and later wrote the Irish Constitution. (2,6) 8. Cardinal in the six counties? (5) 10. Do well at, what, apparently, a toothless bird might do? (7) 11. Eggs hidden in a Mayo valley. (3) 12. No, it returns after 11 across to get approving cheers. (7) 13. Politician picker in overt disorder. .....(5) 14. ....... and the celebration he chooses? (5) 17. Turn article in front of commercial vehicle in prosperous Meath town, a Pale outpost with no name. (5) 18. "Ah, fill the ---: what boots it to repeat How time is slipping underneath our feet." Fitzgerald. (3) 19. Harmoniously in tune with medicine? (5) 21. Move stealthily when snake uncoils. (5) 25. Stimulate happiness in Clonmel at Easter. (5) 27. Drag elf over to famous song written by James M. Connell of Roscommon in 1889. (3,4) 28. Cold runner seen in Tulsk incident. (3) 29. Tear V.I.P. to shreds, but not in public. (7) 30. Put up pikes on Cork Island used as a prison. (5) 31. His Irene travelled over to the smallest of the three Aran Islands. (8) 32. Help up in Roscommon seat of bishopric founded by 10 down. (6)
Steam and Jell-O Heron of Greece invented steam power in 50 BC. But the leaders of the day thought that it would cause unemployment and the invention ran out of steam. The steam engine reappeared in the 1600s in Ferdinand Verbiest’s steam car and then years later again, in 1804, when English inventor Richard Trevithick introduced the steam locomotive in Wales. In 1815, George Stephenson built the world’s first workable steam locomotive. In 1845, another steam engine manufacturer, Peter Cooper of New York (who built the Tom Thumb, the first American steam locomotive), concocted a gelatine dessert made almost entirely of sugar… which became popular as Jell-O.
DOWN 1. Bound over, then ran to popular Donegal resort with a famous golf course and lots of entertainment. (8) 2. Avert rain with difficulty, and that's some story. (9) 4.Veal Co. in liquidation due to recess, going to the wall. (6) 5. Bring force to bear on unknown spot in uprooted tree. (5) 6. In Clonard a rainbow enveloped Donegal village famous for Donegal tweed. (6) 7. Coins calm one confused in Offaly holy place where Rory O'Connor, the last High King, is buried . (12) 9. Locks are concealed in Bansha irrigation. (4) 10. Pick a tin star. (anag.) Welcome visitor to Ireland in 432 A.D. and remembered ever since! (5,7) 15. Foreign street of regret. (3) 16. Flesh in us is wrinkled in an altruistic way. (9)
At any time there are some 44,000 storms; lightning strikes the earth 100 times every second, and there are on average 35 earthquakes per day. Those are all acts of God, one may argue, but us humans don’t make it any easier on mother earth. Every year more than 2 million cases of arson is reported, and more than a million trees are chopped just to make toothpicks. Not all is gloom, however: 200 million couples make love (and 400,000 babies are born) every day.
20. Hence log runs amok in Tipperary village down the Vee road from the Knockmealdown Gap. (8) 22. Help Di up to beautiful Mayo spot in the mountains near Doo Lough, where Prince Charles stayed. (6) 23. Separate and could be had etc. (6) 24. Paradoxicaly, these could be evens, of course. (4) 26. I bail out, but this says I was elsewhere.
LAST ISSUE’S
ANSWERS
Bad hair day Having a bad hair day? Spare some thought for your great-grandparents because in their time it took about 10 hours to complete the process of waving hair to withstand washing, weather and time. Compton’s Online Library explained that the advent of electricity sparked a major change in the concept of hairdressing when in London in 1906 the hairdresser Charles Nestlé invented the permanentwave machine. The bulky machine – about the size of today’s fridge – took almost 20 minutes to get to usable heat and up to 10 hours to complete perming. Still, it was great 20th-century technology.The next year a Parisian chemistry student, Eugène Schueller founded the company L’Oréal, created a dye to cover grey hair with natural-looking colours in a permanent process, and made life a little more fun for a lot of people.
Water everywhere but not much to drink One can live without food for almost a month but survive no longer than a week without water. Yet, although almost half of the world’s population live in water-scarce countries, there actually is enough of this To be in with a chance of winning, fill out the crossword and your your name, telephone number and address and post to Puzzle Time precious liquid for Competition, Northwest Express, Unit 3, Riverview House, Barret Street, Ballina, Co. Mayo. - Good Luck!! everyone. Freshwater lakes and Name: swamps account for a mere 0.29% of the Address: Earth’s freshwater. Telephone 20% of all freshwa number: ter is in one lake, Lake Baikal in Asia. Another 20% is stored in the Great Lakes, Huron, Michigan, and Superior. Rivers hold only about 0.006% of total freshwater reserves. Mankind essentially uses only a drop in the bucket of the total available water supply. 55. zees (2) 56. zeks (2) 57. cee (1) 58. ecu (1) 59. eek (1) 60. ego (1) 61. eke (1) 62. eon (1) 63. fee (1)
64. fen (1) 65. fes (1) 66. fez (1) 67. foe (1) 68. fog (1) 69. fon (1) 70. gee (1) 71. gen (1) 72. gos (1)
73. kef (1) 74. keg (1) 75. ken (1) 76. nee (1) 77. neg (1) 78. nog (1) 79. nos (1) 80. oes (1) 81. one (1)
82. ose (1) 83. see (1) 84. seg (1) 85. sen (1) 86. six (1) 87. son (1) 88. suk (1) 89. uke (1) 90. xis (1)
46. seen (2) 47. sego (2) 48. segs (2) 49. sene (2) 50. skee (2) 51. skeg (2) 52. sone (2) 53. suck (2) 54. ukes (2)
37. keno (2) 38. neck (2) 39. negs (2) 40. noes (2) 41. nogs (2) 42. nose (2) 43. ogee (2) 44. ones (2) 45. seek (2)
28. geek (2) 29. gees (2) 30. geez (2) 31. gene (2) 32. goes (2) 33. gone (2) 34. keef (2) 35. keen (2) 36. kegs (2)
19. cuke (2) 20. cusk (2) 21. ecus (2) 22. egis (2) 23. egos (2) 24. ekes (2) 25. foes (2) 26. fogs (2) 27. geck (2)
10. necks (3) 11. ogees (3) 12. scene (3) 13. seeks (3) 14. skeen (3) 15. skees (3) 16. skegs (3) 17. skene (3) 18. cees (2)
1. scenes (4) 2. skenes (4) 3. cukes (3) 4. feeze (3) 5. gecks (3) 6. geeks (3) 7. genes (3) 8. gonef (3) 9. kenos (3)
Food for thought Stephen Baldwin worked in a pizza parlor, Jean-Claude Van Damme delivered pizzas, Bill Murray was a pizza maker, Madonna worked at Dunkin’ Donuts. Julia Roberts worked in an ice cream parlor, Queen Latifah worked at Burger King, Andie McDowell worked at McDonalds, as did Quintin Tarentino, Jennifer Aniston worked as a waitress in a burger cafe. There’s hope for all of us!
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SLIGO SHORT FILM ‘…FOR PEACE COMES DROPPING SLOW…’ TO SCREEN AT THE MODEL THIS MAY
The film ‘…for peace comes dropping slow…’ is to be screened as part of The Model’s season of short films ‘Shorts@The Model‘ on Saturday May 7th at 3pm. The film, conceived and directed by Sligo based artist Lisa Vandegrift Davala and commissioned by Sligo County Council, was shot at a number of Sligo locations during the summer of 2010. Admission to the screening is free. With cinematography by Cian de Buitléar, Tony Kearns as editor, a soundtrack produced by Seamie O’Dowd on vocals and fiddle and Darren Carr as the stills photographer, the film has been well-received since it’s release in Autumn of 2010.The film also received a nomination in the Best Irish Short Category at the Foyle International Film Festival in Derry and was later screened to full audiences as part of Sligo Live Sessions 2010 in October. Later this summer it will also be screened at the New Hope International Film Festival in Pennsylvania, USA.
0310
Catered for You
0711
About the Film In 1888 the young William Butler Yeats wrote ‘The Lake Isle of Innisfree’, as a yearning incantation of his youth spent in County Sligo near All Events Catered For the Atlantic coast in the northwest of Ireland. Lisa Vandegrift Davala Weddings, Communions, lives near this island. In her film, the words “…for peace comes dropConfirmations, Private Parties etc ping slow…” from Yeats’ poem were re-enacted in light across the Barrett Mobile: 087-9827298 landscape of the Sligo. John During two fine summer days, people from all over Ireland including Email: jjbarrett50ie@yahoo.ie III Programme of Northmembers of the Yeatsian Legacy and Peace www.cateredforyou.net were invited ern Ireland and a team of young actors and performers, CARNIVAL MARQUEES by Director Lisa Vandegrift Davala to County Sligo.They gathered on contact Niall on 086-1595093 Carrane Hill Bog, at Culleenamore Strand near Knocknarea and at Parke’s Castle on Lough Gill overlooking Innisfree; to inscribe this ‘Land of Heart’s Desire’ with the line and mark of W. B.Yeats’ poetic light. This film was made with the support of the Department of Environ ment, Heritage and Local Government Per Cent For Art Scheme and the PEACE III Programme on behalf of Sligo Peace and Reconciliation Partnership Committee. For further information visit www.forpeacecomesdroppingslow.com or www.themodel.ie/film
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TOP IRISH THEATRE AT THE LINENHALL
AXIS Ballymun theatre company presents Dermot Bolger’s humorous and poignant play about post-Celtic Tiger Ireland, “The Parting Glass”, at the Linenhall Arts Centre in Castlebar on Wednesday 11th May at 8.00pm. Where were you when Ireland’s World Cup dreams were dashed by Thierry Henry in 2009? Eoin was at the heart of the drama in Stade de France on that fateful night. After emigrating to Germany in the 80s and making a new life for himself, now he returns to an Ireland that has boomed and bust. Comic and moving by turn, Irish everyman Eoin reflects on mid-life and Ireland’s recent turbulent history with mischievous Dublin wit and sharp home truths. Axis Ballymun continues its immensely successful association with one of Ireland's best-known writers, Dermot Bolger, in a one-man play directed by Mark O'Brien and performed by Ray Yeates. “The Parting Glass” is at the Linenhall Arts Centre in Castlebar on Wednesday 11th May at 8.00pm. Booking advised. Tel: 094 9023733 The Linenhall Arts Centre acknowledges the financial support of the Arts Council in making this performance possible. "A remarkable piece of storytelling." - Sunday Business Post “A rare achievement…Actor Ray Yeates delivers this monologue play with verve and excellent comic timing, punctuating pathos with wit, and vice versa.” - The Irish Times "Exquisite." - NYTHEATRE.COM
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Temple House Festival announce over 100 bands for this summer
Temple House Music & Arts Festival, which was recently named Best New European Festival, has announced that Ash, Stereo MCs, Lisa Hannigan, Whipping Boy, Riptide Movement, The Kanyu Tree, Ball & Chain, D-Sonik, Laura Sheeran, Chuckys River, Nova Static, The Fallen Drakes and Land Lovers will perform at the three day music extravaganza from Friday to Sunday, 10-12 June in the magical grounds of the Temple House estate, near Ballymote in Sligo . Temple House Festival has also announced that Bandwagon TV will host an acoustic stage in the Rose Garden each day – acts confirmed include B and The Honey Boy, Joy Booth, Machine Gun Baby, Yngve & The Innocent, Sanzkrit, Clive Barnes, Eugene Donegan, Neptune City, Henrietta Game, Saramai and The Swords, A Smile Just Came, Red Quenn Contest and Willie Kelly. Temple House Music & Arts Festival stellar line-up already includes Declan O’Rourke, Something Happens, Andrew
Strong, The Walls, Andy McKee, The Flaws, Heathers, Readers Wives, Oddsocks Revival, Jason Clarke, Mike Joyce (DJ set), Kerbdog, Bipolar Empire, Miracle Bell, Interference, STAND, The Minutes, The Raglans, The Danger is, Glen Brady (DJ Wool), Arveene & Misk, Nikki Hayes (DJ Set), Roisin O, Mark Black, Hamlet Sweeney, G Miley & The Soul Street Orchestra, Wyvern Lingo Colin Scallan, Souls, David Burke and My Bad Self. Described as “A wonderful festival… like a smaller, friendlier Glastonbury”, The Temple House Festival promises to be a little bit different and provide a relaxed chilled out atmosphere in idyllic surroundings, which will captivate and enthral anyone who attends. Live music will be complemented by a unique arts trail, a path embedded in the stunning natural setting of the Temple House woods, and encounter a world filled with the kooky, colourful, weird and wonderful. The Temple House Arts Trail involves a
great array of work by local and national based artists with creations ranging from giant pink flamingos; alien fork people, punk birds, life size wire sculptures, recycled art and more.This year’s Arts Trail will feature art installations of all shapes and sizes and in all kinds of locations. Artists will also be in situ along the trail, working on various projects, inviting people to join in on the fun. There will also be a range of children’s activities for under 12’s in the Temple House Walled Garden, a medieval village and archery to entertain. Roderick Perceval, Temple House said : “We are delighted to host the Temple House Music & Arts festival again this year, offering a variety of music, arts and entertainment in the magical setting of Temple House. Last year’s festival was great success and we are determined to make 2011 even bigger and better based on the amazing feedback we received from last year’s attendees. It’s a weekend not to be missed!”
LONDON CLASSIC THEATRE AT THE LINENHALL
SWIMMING WITH MY MOTHER AND DEEP END DANCE
London Classic Theatre makes a highly anticipated return visit to the Linenhall Arts Centre in Castlebar with a stunning reworking of Ibsen’s classic play “Ghosts” on Thursday 19th May at 8.00pm. Helene Alving is preparing for the opening of an orphanage, built in memory of her late husband. Her beloved artist son, Oswald, has returned from Paris to honour the occasion, but his long-awaited homecoming rapidly descends into tragedy as his presence triggers the exposure of a dark story of hypocrisy and betrayed love. Written in 1881 by one of the fathers of modern drama, Henrik Ibsen’s study of hidden passions, family secrets and moral hypocrisy remains as dramatically alive as ever in award-winning Irish playwright and poet Frank McGuinness’ vital new version. “Ghosts” is the second production in London Classic Theatre’s Modern Takes season, presenting European classic plays with a contemporary twist, as seen recently in LCT’s dazzling production of “After Miss Julie”. London Classic Theatre presents “Ghosts” at the Linenhall Arts Centre on Thursday 19th May at 8.00pm. Booking advised. Tel: 094 9023733 The Linenhall Arts Centre acknowledges the financial support of the Arts Council in making this performance possible.
CoisCéim Dance Company Tuesday 10th May | 8pm | 15/12 SPECIAL OVER 50s BEALTAINE TICKETS: 10 “Swimming with my Mother” is a stage duet representing the relationship between a mother and her son and their mutual love for swimming and dancing. In this beautiful and gentle duet, their shared histories intertwine and build gently like a rising tide. Life stories are told with humour to the sultry tones of Nat King Cole.
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Castlebar
The town that has everything!
The Boss on song for Castlebar Blues and Beyond Festival
An Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD and Grainne Duffy. Picture John Moylette
C
ASTLEBAR, Mayo’s county town, is the administrative seat for the county. It is a busy, bustling market town and is one of the fastest growing towns in the country. Steeped in history, it is the birthplace of many of Ireland’s famous sons – Charlie Haughey, former Taoiseach; Louis Brenna, inventor of the mono-rail torpedo; Margaret Burke Sheridan, world famous soprano, and is also the home place of Lord Lucan. In modern times its most famous son has to be former EU Commissioner Padraic Flynn, who is credited with many of the infrastructural projects achieved in the town and surrounds in recent decades. The presence of the Regional Hospital, GMIT, County Council, Davitt House, in addition to a
plethora of established commercial enterprises, gives the town the edge in the employment stakes. It has a good infrastructure with businesses covering a vast spectrum of products and services. The County Library in Castlebar has a wealth of information and resources on matters of local, historical and genealogical interest. On the educational front, the presence of GalwayMayo Institute of Technology at Castlebar, which now has an attendance of approx 1,200 students from every corner of Ireland, is a major boost. There are also numerous courses and facilities available for adults wishing to get back into education both full-time and part-time. Overall, Castlebar is now a centre in educational excellence with modern pre-schools, pri-
mary, secondary and third level educational facilities. Recent decades has seen the establishment of outlets for most of the major retail giants, including Tesco, Dunnes, Aldi, \Lidl, Argus, Homebase, Harvey Norman, Woodies, Shaws Department Store and many others, including an array of long-established local retailers. It is served with a number of top-class hotels and restaurants. Arts, Sports and Leisure are also well catered for with numerous facilities, exhibitions, competitions and festivals which include the world famous International Four Days Walks and the Guin-
ness Castlebar Blues Festival, which take place in the town this weekend.The range of leisure facilities in Castlebar include swimming, bowling, golf, pubs, cafes, horse riding, tennis and much more. Just a few kilometers down the road, in Turlough, the National Museum of Country Life attracts
thousands of visitors each year. The town is well serviced with good roads including the N5 to the East and North and the N60 & N84 to the South and, of course, the town is only 28 miles from Ireland West Airport, Knock.Is it any wonder we can confidently say this is a town which has everything?
AN Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD has struck the right chord in Castlebar when he helped launch the annual Blues and Beyond Festival over the June Bank Holiday weekend. The Taoiseach was at hand to help launch the world famous annual festival that takes place from June 3rd to 6th, inclusive, featuring a host of world famous blues performers. Blues and Beyond Festival in Castlebar sees the town playing host yet again to another party of live music in what has become known to music fans as the festival that marks the real beginning of summer, and everyone is invited. With the majority of gigs free this is certainly something to sing about. Headliners include evening concerts with Imelda May on Friday, Brian Kennedy on Saturday and Thin Lizzy on Sunday, in addition to the now famous pub trail with free admission to all
gigs, featuring musicians from all over the world. The town is immersed in music that is as mellow as a sleeping kitten, influenced from all over the world, or is fast and lively knees-up blues and rock – there’s something for everyone. The festival over the last few years has seen growth in the numbers of venues and also new and returning visitors. This year, with support from Fáilte Ireland, promises to be one of the best yet. Castlebar is undergoing a huge transformation at present with new streetscapes being completed in the downtown area, and there’s lots of street activity and entertainment planned. The town centre green park, known as The Mall, also plays host to a family ‘Funday Sunday’ the same weekend. If you feel like a good value mini break, and love live music, checkout www.castlebarblues.com for more details.
At the launch of the Blues and Beyond Festival, June Bank Holiday weekend. Pictured are Back (l to r): Kevin ‘Webster’ MacNeely, Jerry Tolster, Cllr Ger Deere, Castlebar Mayor & John Mulroy. Front row: Finbar Hoban, An Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD, Grainne Duffy and Declan Durcan Missing from picture Werner Lewon. Full story on Page 2. Picture: John Moylette