Mature Living Magazine

PROMOTING A HEALTHY & POSITIVE LIFESTYLE Sept / Oct 2014

Lauren Bacall: Style Icon

Five secrets for a happy life

The benefits of fruit

Concept Gardens: Leonie Cornelius

A TWO NIGHT MID-WEEK BREAK FOR 2 PEOPLE WITH DINNER ON 1 EVENING

The Jackie Clarke Collection

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he Jackie Clarke Collection Ireland's Memory - is an iconic cultural destination in Mayo. Found here in abundance are unique treasures - 100,000 items - uncensored, rare and priceless artefacts. It is a collection that focuses on the Irish people, their struggles and their triumphs.

It is the most important private collection of Irish history, now in public hands. The material in the collection covers over 400 years of Ireland’s history. It includes material belonging to Theobald Wolfe Tone, the father of Republicanism; editions of the first newspaper, dating to 1665; personal items from the 1916 Rising's Leaders; autographed letters from Michael Collins and other activists in the War of Independence and Civil War; the papers of the first Irish President Douglas Hyde including a rare early Bible in Irish; letters from Fenians in America - John Devoy, and Jeremiah O'Donovan Rossa - and poignantly, primary material relating to the Famines of the nineteenth century and the subsequent evictions that send the Irish to the four corners of the earth.

It also contains rare books, cine films, manuscripts, posters, proclamations (several versions of the Irish Proclamation, including the 1916 Proclamation), legal pa-

pers, badges, handbills, works by Sir John Lavery, rare printed maps (some dating from 1600 onwards) hunger strike material, prisoners’ art, graphics, political cartoons, ground plans, architects plans, engineering plans, newspapers, photographs and woodcarvings.

Jackie Clarke (1927 – 2000) was a Ballina business man and a genius collector. In 2007 his widow, Mrs Anne Clarke gifted her late husband's collection to the people of Ballina, Mayo and Ireland, in perpetuity, on condition that it remained in Ballina. This donation to Ireland is in the guardianship of Mayo County Council.

The collection is housed in the unique setting of the former Provincial Bank building and walled garden, ideally located on the main shopping street in Ballina town centre. The building was designed by noted Irish architect Thomas Manly Deane who worked on of many of Ireland's finest public buildings including the Government buildings, the National Library and the National Museum.

The Walled Garden will be a green oasis in the busy town of Ballina. Over the past five years, the listing of this collection has been carried out by historian Sinéad McCoole, now employed as Manager/Curator of the Jackie Clarke Collection by Mayo County Council.

www.matureliving.ie

October 2014

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EPTEMBER conjures images of Autumn leaves and All-Ireland finals. This year the leaves haven’t quite materialised, but the GAA scene is reaching an exciting conclusion with some epic battles. It all makes it great to be alive . . . and since we are, at last, experiencing a lift from the gloom of the recession, there are prospects of brighter days ahead, on the domestic front anyway. In this regards, with the upcoming Budget very much in the news, it is time for seniors to dust off the lobbying boots again to ensure they get their fair share of reliefs when the purse strings are loosened a bit.

Our One-on-One interviewee this month is the much-loved actor, Mary McEvoy, much acclaimed for her role in the longrunning rural soap, Glenroe, but not type-cast to a major degree since she has revealed her many natural talents in other productions such as The Matchmaker, scheduled for a performance in Ballina’s Art Centre later this month. Mary has always been forthright about her personal battles with depression and speaks openly to Catherine Gilmartin about the difficulties this presents. However, when it comes to stage performances she has no fears or anxieties, the stamp of a true professional.

The Matchmaker is not to be missed at Ballina’s Art Centre on the 27th September where an abundance of laughter is guaranteed. Indeed, in this issue we deal with the positive, healing benefits of laughter. Many studies have been produced which prove how laughter benefits our well-being; many even call it a “wonder-drug” capable of treating a host of maladies related to stress and lifestyle.

On the health front we highlight the benefits of fruit in our diets - the apple a day concept still coming out on top over the much-lauded vitamin and mineral supplements. It might also help to live long lives and look terrific, like renowned style icon, Lauren Bacall who died last week aged 89. Our travel section reminds us we are never too old to visit places like Lapland and we take you on a self-drive journey through this Scandinavian paradise.

We are always encouraging seniors to embrace technology and make easier and more comfortable and research reveals that more and more are getting in on the act – but it’s all positive as it keeps us engaged, connected, mentally active and, most important, physically safe. Read more on page 45.

To remain connected, the Mature Living Exhibition scheduled for the Sligo Park Hotel on 23rd and 24th November is something to plan for. Look out for full information in upcoming issues. All these activities help to shorten the Winter.

Keep well and we’ll talk to you again next month.

Seamus Casey - Editor

LAST MONTH’S COMPETITION WINNER The winner of last months breakaway to the Royal Marine was Joanne Dunleavy of Killala rd, Ballina Co Mayo

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

News Exciting new book deals with pivotal point in Irish history One to One with Mary McEvoy Lauren Bacall: Style Icon Blue Apple Dental Five secrets for a happy life Laugh out loud: the healing benefits of laughter Concept Gardens Angelscopes Plumbing and heating Competition Cooking: A taste of Germany The Bands of our Showband era House and Home Home Security Exciting new hobbies Your’re never too old for Lapland Alternative Therapies Motoring Technology Fitness Hotel Guide Services Directory Dating

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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

CGA finds longest Married Couple

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or the past 11 years, The Catholic Grandparents Association has organised the Irish National Pilgrimage at The Shrine in

Knock.

Many thousands make the journey from all over Ireland and beyond to witness to the vocation of Grandparents and their key

role in keeping families together in an environment of faith. This year has been stimulated by our search to find the longest married couple in Ireland.

James & Margaret Hurley Kelly's Hotel

The Longest married couple we found were Margaret and James Hurley from Co. Tipperary, who have been married for 74 years. They have 12 Grandchildren and 7 Great Grandchildren. They were closely followed by Eileen and Ned Cusack - married for 70 years, Mr and Mrs Michael Walsh - married for 68 years, Terry and Betty Layton - married for 65 years, Mr & Mrs Kevin & Eileen Lamph - married 64 years with 12 Grandchildren and 10 Great Grandchildren and Tommy & Sadie Gallagher married 60 years.

Each couple were asked for their 'Secret for a successful marriage", the response ranged from 'always smile' to 'I do whatever my wife says'.

If you know of any one who can beat this record then send details into us at: Mature Living Magazine, Office 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo

Life Cover: A Matter of Life and Death

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here has been a lot of media coverage lately in relation to whole of life policies, and how insurance companies are moving the goal posts and increasing the premium of these policies 2 or 3 fold.

People who have made arrangements to take out a life policy so their dependants are looked after they pass away after are, after paying into these policies for years now not able to afford these increased premiums!

So what are Whole of Life Policies and why are the premiums increasing so much for them?

Unit-linked, whole of life policies were popular in the 1980s. They provided a level of life assurance that in theory was capable of lasting your whole life, but in practice fell well short. The premium you paid would have been split to purchase life cover and to build up an investment reserve.

The idea was that the investment reserve, when added to the monthly premium, would provide insurance for the whole of your life.

As you got older, the cost of providing cover increased, so more units of the investment reserve would have been surrendered to provide cover. If the investment part of the policy did not perform well, the premium would eventually have no

longer sustained the level of cover, trigging a review of your policy. Your options would have been to increase the current premium to sustain the current level of cover or accept a reduction in the sum assured.

So this is the situation many people find themselves in with a policy that is costing them a huge premium per month or being forced to reduce their cover to a very small amount to keep the policy in force.

Do I have any come back against the insurance company or bank that sold me the policy?

The problem with these policies is that they weren’t explained properly at point of sale and the small premium at the outset made them very attractive people weren’t prepared for the increases. Unfortunately the Financial Services Ombudsman can only investigate complains going back 6 years and as these polices were sold back in the 80s or early 90s there is no comeback for policy holders, but you do have options: 1. You can like the insurance company suggests increase your premium or reduce your cover some people who are in bad health may have no choice but to take one of these options at they won’t be considered for a new policy.

2. You can look at taking out a cheaper term policy which covers you for a particular period of time and with some companies offering cover up to

Page 4 Mature Living October 2014

the age of 90, they are worth considering but be aware if you pass away after the term of the policy there is no pay-out.

3. There are two life companies who have a Whole of Life policy which covers you for the whole of your life at a fixed premium, the premium won’t change. These policies tend to be more expensive than term policies as there is a guaranteed pay-out, but in most cases cost less than the reviewable unit linked whole of life policies we have been discussing.

4. Bearing in mind none of us know what is around the corner when it comes to our health it can be difficult to get life cover if you are in poor health but there is an over 50s life cover which you don’t have to do a medical for and it worth considering if you are in poor health.

So even though a lot of people are finding themselves being put over a barrel with these old Whole of Life Policies there are options out there and now it the time to seek independent advice to review what is available to you.

Mark Gilmore is a Qualified Financial Adviser and owner of Money Tree Financial Services and can be contacted on 087-6788975 or by email mark@moneytreefinancial.ie Mark Gilmore T/A Money Tree Financial Services is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

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News

Alzheimer’s app provides advice and help for family caregivers

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free app is now available to help the 50,000 family carers in Ireland cope with difficult dementia care situations.

The Daily Companion App has been created by Home Instead Senior Care, Ireland’s largest home care provider, as pocket guide to dementia care providing access to quick, helpful tips from experts and other caregivers.

This on-the-go guide for dementia caregivers is available for download at

no cost in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. It offers immediate advice with close to 500 searchable tips and practical solutions to help deal with behaviours and situations related to Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

Features include: 25 topic categories regarding behaviours and situations; emotional support and helpful resources.

“Ask a Questions”

submission form if you can’t find the answer you’re looking for Functionality to share advice from your own experience for the benefit of other caregivers 24-hour caregiving assistance available via phone or e-mail submission Ability to access all of the solutions and tops without Internet connectivity Speaking about the new app, Deirdre Donaghy, Digital Marketing Manager of Home Instead Senior Care said: “Let’s say a caregiver is struggling with an older parent who is accusing them of stealing or who no longer recognises them. All they have to do is type in their issue and the app will start outlining why they see this type of behaviour in their parent, what the caregiver can do and what approaches to take. It’s a practical and easy to use resource during times of great stress”. Deirdre continues: “It’s an interesting time that we

live in. Most people are smart phone users and this is the first time in history caregivers have access to specialised advice at their fingertips. Even beyond the realm of Alzheimer’s and dementia care, there are apps that help us with everything – they provide fitness tips, they play music and help us stay in touch with friends. It is our hope that our daily companion app will help caregivers and make a real difference in their everyday lives”.

September is World Alzheimer’s Month and to support family caregivers across the country, Home Instead Senior Care is offering a series of free dementia care education workshops. The new Daily Companion App will include all advice and information presented at these workshops. Visit www.homeinstead.ie or call 1890 930 013 to register for a workshop and receive additional dementia care support and assistance.

Positive Ageing Week 2014

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fter months of planning, hundreds of events will take place around the country to celebrate Positive Ageing Week 2014. From Tai Chi to Afternoon Tea, there is something for everyone! A national calendar of activities will be available on www.ageaction.ie from 26 September 2014.

This year Age Action celebrates 12 years of Positive Ageing Week and both young and old coming out in force in their towns and communities to celebrate

ageing in a positive light.

Positive Ageing Week over the last number of years has expanded rapidly due to the enthusiasm of older people and their communities who have embraced the idea and made it their own. This has been very evident in the diverse range of activities that took place over the week long celebration.

ITea – Afternoon Tea & Technology Event for Over 80’s, Mother/Daughter/Niece Morning, Father/Son/Nephew Afternoon, Knitting Parties, Singing for

Wellbeing, Dublin’s Working Prams Exhibition, Frugal Fridays – Cooking on a Budget workshop, Conversation Boxes – Years Gone By theme, Rolling & Bowling Workshop, Eco, Historical and Forest Walks, Dancercise, Chair Zumba, Scrabble, Chess, Bridge and Boggle Clubs, Coffee Mornings, Musical Afternoons and Ceol agus Craic Evenings are just some of the great events that took place last year in 2013. Other highlights in 2013 included the Over 50’s Event in Dublin Zoo, an Intergenerational Orchestral Performance in the National Concert Hall, the Positive Ageing Touring Photo Exhibition, a Human Library Event, a Care & Repair Showcase event, Standard Life Planning for Retirement Seminars, Boots Health & Beauty Days, Bank of Ireland Online Banking Training and the Google Silver Surfer Awards.

As well as the hundreds of individual events that will take place, 14 Positive Ageing Week Towns will host an action packed week long series of events. They are Arklow, Co. Wicklow, Ballymun, Dublin, Boyle, Co. Roscommon, Cashel, Co. Tipperary, Drogheda, Co. Louth, Dublin city, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, Galway city, Kinsale, Co. Cork, Midleton, Co. Cork, Sligo town, Trim, Co. Meath, Tullamore, Co. Offaly.

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News

Exciting new book deals with pivotal point in Irish history Ballina, One Town, Three Wars & More

Minister of State for Tourism and Sport Michael Ring pictured with author Terry Reilly at the launch of his new book "Ballina - One Town, Three Wars and More", in Ballina Library. Also included are Book Designer Siobhan Foody and Terry's wife Mary. Picture Henry Wills.

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ome sixty years after the Great Hunger, Home Rule seems a real possibility under John Redmond's Parliamentary Party in the years leading up to the ‘War to end all Wars'. Trade in Ballina and surrounding areas is improving for local merchants who were confident enough to

compete aggressively with Liptons and John Hughes Ltd, companies that would today be described as multinational chains.

For the poor who live in the back lanes and tenements, without indoor toilets or running water, matters are getting better, too, even if only marginally. Those attaining

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their 70th birthday are now drawing the pension, and the letters bearing money are arriving from siblings who had to emigrate to the US and Britain over the previous twenty years or so.

The political mood is also changing. The GAA, the Gaelic League, and the Gaelic revival are gaining traction and the mood of the natives is becoming much more assured and determined. Strong characters are emerging.

National school teachers are beginning to inculcate a love of Irish history.

And when the Volunteers are formed and draw young men in huge numbers to protect the green shoots of nationalism under threat from the north the country is marching to a more strident tune. Yes, many of these Volunteers rush to join the Great War for a variety of reasons- and will die in their thousands - but some stay home and begin to hammer a wedge in the mighty plank of the Empire, the sledgehammer blows raining down ever more forcefully after the Easter Rising.

The War of

Independence will follow and lead to a Treaty over which brother would fight brother in a bloody and divisive Civil War. So while one war becomes three, the people of Ballina and its environs somehow get on with living. They have to. Mouths have to be fed, the commandments to be obeyed, the challenges of perennial emigration to be shouldered, and in all the cut and thrust layer after layer of changed social history has to be laid down and negotiated.

The players and the issues at this pivotal epoch of Ballina’s history are brought to life again by Terry Reilly in a forensic and compelling narrative which covers the period c.

1880 to 1923.

This social history of Ballina with its many surprises and arresting anecdotes is not to be missed. From research for this 432 page hardcover blockbuster also came inspiration of the play We’ll be Home Befor e Christmas, which will be performed in Ballina Arts Theatre November 13-16, directed by leading thespian Ray Collins.

Who are the “Delayed Discharges” in our Hospitals?

By Patricia Conboy

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ho are the “delayed discharges” in our acute hospitals? Monitoring reports on the performance of the health system track “delayed discharges” in terms of numbers and percentages. It is easy to forget that the numbers are people: patients who are clinically fit for discharge but who remain in hospitals because they are in need of further care - though not acute hospital care – and who cannot access that further care within our public health system. Each “delayed discharge” is a complex human story involving a person, their family and the challenges they are facing in terms of illness, disability and/or age. In debates about the effectiveness of the health system, we rarely hear the voices of these patients, or of their families. This is a silence that needs to be broken. “Delayed discharges” include patients who need home care support (e.g. nursing, home help, personal care) to return home safely but who cannot access that care. “Delayed discharges” also include people who are waiting to transfer to long-term nursing home care and whose transfer is delayed, often for reasons beyond their control or the control of their families. The existence of “delayed discharges” is a visible indicator of problems in Ireland’s public health system. We cannot resolve those problems unless we include the voices and insights of affected patients and families in an analysis of the issues surrounding delayed discharge.

Readers who have had personal experience of caring for frail, sick, old relatives know the stress associated with discharge from hospital (or hospice) where their relatives have dependency levels and a continuing need for care; they then find themselves negotiating a labyrinth as they attempt to find the further support their loved ones need. When it comes to home and community care, services are patchy, inadequate and access is on the basis of discretion, not right or entitlement. When it comes to nursing home care, families are reliant on access to the Nursing Home Support Scheme, also called the “Fair Deal” Scheme which enables co-payment between individuals and the State for the cost of nursing home care.

The reality is that, in recent months, the waiting period for hospital patients to access Fair Deal funding has increased from 6 to 14 weeks. Bear in mind that this increased waiting period applies to those patients who have successfully completed the relevant care needs assessments and means tests; and who have been deemed eligible for co-funding under the Nursing Home Support(Fair Deal) Scheme.

They are “discharge ready” but waiting for the HSE to release co-funding and the waiting time has now extended by 8 weeks. Those patients are now trapped in hospital beds. If they move to nursing homes while they are waiting for the HSE to release funding, they have to bear the full costs of nursing home care themselves for the weeks in question.

Most patients and families cannot afford those costs.

What it all boils down to is that one part of the health system is pressurizing hospitals and their staff to avoid “delayed discharges”; and other parts of the same system are triggering “delayed discharges” due to gaps in community care, and unexplained delays in releasing Fair Deal co-funding to eligible patients.

Caught in the middle, we have the patients who are “delayed discharges”. We need to hear their voices and to ensure that different parts of the health system are integrated and working together to the benefit of patients.

Twitter : @PatriciaConboy1 https://www.facebook.com/AgePolicyAnalysis

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Feature by Catherine Gilmartin

Mary McEvoy Living with depression C

atherine Gilmartin spoke to the much loved Irish actress Mary McEvoy, renowned for her role as Biddy in RTE’s classic soap, Glenroe, ahead of her hugely anticipated appearance in John B Keane’s Matchmaker at Ballina Arts Centre on Saturday, September 27th. In this revealing interview she speaks candidly about life on and off the stage and gives an insight into the personal issues she faces.

M

ary has been on the road constantly since 2001 and she says the first thing she would do if she won the lottery would be to get a driver! “I am a home-bird and I always try and get home after a show if I can.

Since the Celtic Tiger the roads are better and so it is a lot easier for me to do this”.

Home to Mary is a green, leafy part of Westmeath, where she lives with her partner, Garvin.

She has no money worries and has every reason to be happy.

Yet, it is widely known that Mary suffers with depression and she has always been very honest about this. “I do a lot of public speaking for mental health organisations. There is such a lack of understanding out there. I work with Shine, a mental health organisation, and two other well known performers who also give generously of their time - Dil Wickramasin, a broadcaster and John Moyles. I am in a comedy with the two of them, written by Isabel Mahon, (who also starred in Glenroe) based on life and how we deal with our demons and how we live with them”.

“My depression comes from anxiety. Amazingly, when I perform in front of people my anxi-

ety disappears. I can perform in front of thousands and not feel anxious or nervous whatsoever, you have an armour to a degree.

The element of performance has a degree of protection. However, it is when I am myself, especially in everyday ordinary social settings, that I can become very withdrawn. These occasions still make me very nervous. People think its personal, but its not, I can’t help it. I crave people but the relationships need to be on my terms. People who are prone to self examine are usually depressed. It has been said by Socrates that “A Life unexamined is a life not worth living”, but I don’t know if I agree with that.

It is people who are over sensitive that suffer with depression, they feel things more deeply than others and it affects them, i.e. what’s happening in Gaza. It makes me feel so ashamed - I have so much; why am I depressed, I don’t have a right to be? The guilt is worse than anything else. All my life I have had people trying to fix me and they have way bigger problems than me”.

“I got up this morning and my heart was in my mouth, I live alongside this thing. I have met some people in real distress, they have that lost look – they have genuine distress in their eyes.

The only answer is to let them be who they are, you don’t have to understand them. I like to have a cup of tea with people and just be. People who have mental dis-

Pictured with co-star, Jon Kenny in the Matchmaker.

Page 10 Mature Living October 2014

orders don’t have to talk, they crave company, they just want someone there and not to be alone”.

“It has been said I am bi-polar, I do not suffer with this, I do suffer with depression but this in no way affects me in my work. I know a lot of actors who suffer with depression but cannot come out and say it because they are frightened it will stop them getting work”.

“Older people suffer from depression and one of the reasons is the world doesn’t want to know about them anymore. TV and radio are mostly geared towards the young. People become tired of sticking to the rules and acting and looking a certain way. People want to break the bonds. It’s like women years ago getting fed up of wearing corsets, they would have loved to have taken it off and just let everything flop!”, laughs.., “People are sick of holding themselves together”.

My view is “What is old anyway? Is Keith Richards or Mick Jagger old? We are not old and even if society thinks we are, what the hell! We learn to be witches when we are older people who live close to the earth and don’t give a shit! There’s a great freedom in not caring”, laughs that infectious laugh again.

“I have land but I would never sell it - you don’t sell your soul. I have no kids, the land is my child, I want to grow trees on it; farmers will string me up for saying that as it is good land”, laughs again.

I ask Mary does she believe that people can have addictive personalities. Mary says: “Yes, but maybe people should look at the positives, like where the person is trying to get to rather than where they’re trying to escape from. That place of peace and love you get even for a moment, i.e. when you are happily sharing a glass of wine and enjoying the moment with a friend, just before that next drink takes over.

That sense of peace we look for – do we want that peace from addiction? I don’t have a problem with alcohol; my addiction is eating!”

Although Mary has a wonderful understanding partner she says:

“People expect too much from their partners. I practice Buddhism and one of the beliefs is that your partner is not here just for you, they have their own mission in life. It is a scientific way of looking at life and it also teaches that we are all deeply interconnected - my life his/her life, it doesn’t matter. Isolation comes from the belief that we are disconnected from each other. It’s not just addicts that are looking for connection, every one of us seeks connection. Ordinary Beauty encapsulates it. I met a junkie on the Quays, he was staggering around the place.

The owner called the guards to get rid of him, something prompted me to go over to him and I found he was just trying to tie his shoe laces”. Mary’s voice waivers and she becomes emotional, “I tied his shoes for him like Mary Magdalen dried Jesus with her hair. He drew kindness from me but he was actually helping me. We want to ignore anything that deviates from perfection, but if we become nicer

to each other, we become engaged and better people”.

“Depression or any mental illness has got a deeper purpose.

We all have a spiritual understanding and become more spiritually aware as to what is hurting us. I don’t believe in Pollyanna I don’t believe in thoughts that disempower me. I do believe that we need to waken up in this life – I meditate every day, once in the morning and in the evening. It’s like ballerinas, they practice the same exercises every day. How else can they improve?” “There is a lot of depression in Ireland - the Irish tend to blame the English for it, but it came from colonisation, when people were poor and scared; it came from a sense of survival and isolation”. “Although I realise that nothing really matters in this life, it is but a dream, I have to say when my book became the No. 1 seller in the non fiction section it was the best feeling! You don’t get that in acting. Anne McDonnell, my partner Garvin and I cracked

open a bottle of champagne and we had a real hoot that day. I say enjoy these moments and then let them go. I thank the universe but it is the soul that matters”.

Mentioning the Matchmaker, Mary says working with Jon Kenny is easy and he is such fun to be around. Jon saves his drama for the stage; unlike most actors he is such good craic and never in bad humour. “He is a delight, ideally I would have preferred not to tour, I feel being on the road half of my life in a car is like being a hamster on a wheel, but working with Jon makes it easier”.

It all becomes worthwhile when you see people holding themselves from laughing so

Mary in a relaxed mood

much; at the same time for all its humour the Matchmaker is essentially trying to combat loneliness in rural Ireland and as John B Keane says: “Every old shoe finding an old stocking”.

There was a very beautiful woman in the audience one night, she stuck out because she had that Italian glamour and a presence about her. She was going through tissues she was laughing so much and I said to myself: “God Almighty I would rather be here than anywhere else!”

“The joy of giving people laughter – there is nothing like it in the world and when there are tears running down their faces and they can’t stop laughing and then they are moved by something sad, it’s just like life.

Sometimes people are happy, sometimes sad, you can’t change it. No one says you have to be happy all the time, that is what I love about the Matchmaker, there is an incredible humanity about it. I love it!! I always go back to it even though it is a long show, very wordy and you have to work very hard. It’s great! I just love doing it and of course Jon has added his own spin to Matchmaker and taken it on another journey and its wonderful”.

I ask her if this role has become a part of her as much as Biddy in Glenroe and she says I would say more. “I have also played so many other roles, even Shirley Valentine. I have done 4 different plays this year. Another

play I do is called Fruitcake written by Amanda Barry from Cork, I have done that as often as I have done the Matchmaker and she is very much a part of me as well.

They do become part of you – it’s funny, you become a representative of your character; but I would say when I talk about Fionnuala Crust, although I do become immersed in the character, some actors take it to ridiculous lengths. They become so real that you can’t hear them!

What’s the point of being real if the audience can’t hear you!

They think their duty is to the person, not the audience! Mind you who am I to say? I don’t have an Oscar, maybe my way doesn’t work!” she laughs. “Actors often come into the dressing room in their character, have their make up done and sit there in character. I would be so curious about the make up girl’s life to do that. How can I miss what is happening in the universe?

People are so interesting, what gives me the right to be God almighty just because I am pretending to be someone else?

They lord it over everyone - I want to talk to the guys on the set or those doing the props; other people tell me to leave it until the rap party. You can talk to everyone after the performance. I think you might never get to the rap party because life is like that”, laughs that infectious laugh again.....

“How we live is part of the ultimate reality, we need to get out have a laugh and Jon Kenny has such a lust for life he interacts fantastically with the audience too”.

“I like to live in the moment as I said before I don’t have an Oscar, maybe that’s why!” laughs again, “I am too busy yapping to the guys on the set”. “It is very intense when you are playing a role and it takes weeks to make a film, how can you force yourself from reality for that amount of time?

“Working with Jon on stage is great, he is so real, he just looks you in the eye and you know that the character is there, but there is no messing with him, no process before he gets on the stage, he just goes on stage and does it. He is wonderful and is one of the most talented people I have ever come across, he can sing, dance, act and direct”.

“Michael is a good friend of mine as well and has given me lots of work, I am very grateful to him. He has kept the show on the road. Michael is the Director and producer and I work very well with him, I bond with Michael because he understands me. If I say I feel so shit today he understands, he will say yes I know and he also knows that I will still perform as I always do no matter how I feel . He gets it.

It’s great to know that I can say anything to Michael and he won’t panic thinking that I won’t be

Pictured with co-actor, the late Mick Lally, in an earlier episode of Glenroe. able to perform. I am a true professional and it is great to know that he knows that. I have worked with him for 30 years and am very grateful to him.

Mary has written a book which will be out in September. it is called Ordinary Beauty - about little thoughts. Her last book, How the Lights gets in, the title of which is taken from Leonard Cohen, whom she loves, was extremely successful. Mary says: “I love Leonard Cohen, to me life is not a perfect Alleluia it is a broken Alleluia, even for the norms,” giggles, “the people who think they don’t have mental issues! they do, they just don’t know it!”.

Finally we discuss how she sees the future. Mary says she would love to get more into yoga and run a bit more as she had feels very unfit. “Career wise I would love to play a cop, a hard nosed Irish cop on the TV.” Mary tells me she misses TV work: “I loved it and I am still a regular contributor to RTE’s afternoon show”.

The problem is she never had a profile in England and feels that if you do not the role will always go to the person who has. Mary continues: “Like Helen Mirren, mind you she is so sexy and she will be until she is 90! I am as straight as a die but I would with her!” Laughs again. “ I really think she is such a sexy person. I don’t know what it is. There is something about her. Anyway, I would just love to play that role.

It would make me so happy and I would love more work on TV and the film”.

This obviously prompts me to ask why didn’t she leave Ireland and get a profile in England?

Mary says she didn’t feel she could leave her parents: as an only child with parents who were as old as grandparents she felt a responsibility to look after them as there was no one else. “Not that they wanted me to - they didn’t ask me not to go away but I always felt it. I was the only child so my parents concentrated on me. If my mother could have picked a career for me it certainly wouldn’t have been acting.

I was very loved, sometimes it can be too intense, it is very hard being the only child. When a parent dies it is very isolating coping with the grief, especially when there is no one who can share it with you. Other people can try and comfort you but they are not your brother or sister, so they are not going through the same thing, they can’t really understand, its an incredible isolating experience. My mother has been dead eleven years and I still find it very difficult because you don’t have anyone to share it with; you don’t have anyone who has the same connection to that person”.

I suggest that she may over idealise families and she says: “Maybe, but when I hear families say they don’t get on , I just say Jaysus do you not realise how wonderful it is to have each other?”

THE MATCHMAKER Keane’s hilarious hit play follows the efforts of Dicky Mick Dicky O’Connor to make matches for the lonely and lovelorn from all parts of the country. Keane’s marvellous and mischievous wit coupled by his unparalleled way with words is paramount. The play takes us back to a time when phones were few and far between, and the only web was one left behind by spiders!

Mary McEvoy points out that back in the time when John B Keane was writing, women were seen, not in a sexual sense, but working in the home, not having any kind of libido. Contrary to this, she says, John B's women have sexual desire. She says: "For all our modernity, that is still seen as dodgy. A man can be a bit of a player but a woman is a tart. There is still that double standard”.

It was wonderful talking to such a genuine person and for her to share so much of herself. I will certainly not miss the opportunity of seeing her perform in Matchmaker – a really great night is in store for the people of Ballina and its hinterland.

Page 11 Mature Living October 2014

Fashion

LAUREN BACALL STYLE ICON

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he phrase “style icon” is too often tossed around these days to describe just about any starlet that happens to show up on a red carpet in a designer outfit or an outrageous getup.

(Hello Rihanna!)

True style icons are those whose fashion sense and wardrobe is utterly effortless. Whatever they might be wearing not only looks suitable but supremely flawless.

They tend to have a look of such ease in what they are wearing, you can’t picture them wearing anything else but.

Lauren Bacall was such a style icon. The legendary actress, who passed away last month at age 89, will be remembered for her movie roles with some of the great names from the Golden Era of cinema: Kirk Douglas, Gregory Peck,

Gary Cooper, Rock Hudson, John Wayne and, of course, Humphrey Bogart, whom she married.

But it is also her sense of style that will be remembered and cherished, an ode to a by-gone era of when glamour truly reigned in Hollywood.

Bacall started off as a model, catching the eye of the esteemed fashion editor, Diana Vreeland, who put her on the cover of Harper’s Bazaar. It is said that this cover catapulted her to Hollywood and a role opposite Humphrey Bogart in the 1944 film, To Have and Have Not. Despite her young age (her early 20s), Bacall soon captivated Hollywood and America with her grace.

She not only carved out a career of playing strong women, but she built a signature look that showed

equal parts elegance and strength.

She embodied this era of film noir cinema with her glossy wavy dark hair, strong-shouldered suitings and high-waisted fluid trousers.

That’s the other thing about style icons – you can look back at their pictures, despite the decades that have past, and still sigh at the perfection, poise and how their style still stands the test of time.

Chalk it up to another era where they didn’t know any different. But Bacall certainly knew how to make holding and smoking a cigarette glamorous and seductive. It was said she had a two-pack-a-day habit.

At just 19 years old, the model turned actress was already displaying a sense of sophistication and elegance with her fashion sense.

Circa 1955. The actress strikes a pose in a full skirted evening look.

Lauren Bacall, circa 1945. Not afraid to play up her femininity, here Bacall wears a mid-riff baring summer outfit in a bold floral print

Dec 1944. Bacall played up her striking features – the full bushy eyebrows, the strong jawline and wide lips. Her glossy dark hair was often styled with a side part and cascading waves.

Circa 1950. She cultivated this signature look early in her career and it continued to serve her well through the decades – the strong shouldered suit.

Oct 2003. Here she accessories her black pant suit with a striking scarlet red scarf, draped dramatically over one shoulder.

Lauren pictured here on her wedding day to Humphrey Bogart.

Page 12 Mature Living September 2014

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

Anxious Dental Patients

your dental fears and start to remove them from your life.

It begins with a single visit. We find that once the vast majority of patients get past that first visit they feel a little lighter.

The mystery is gone, because they now know exactly where they stand dentally. They know

A

very important part of our practice is working with anxious patients. It’s something we have built become known for, and is one of the most rewarding things we do.

Do you find yourself answering ‘Yes’ to any of these statements?

• You are embarrassed by the condition of your teeth.

• Thinking about your teeth makes you feel ashamed.

• The thought of showing your teeth to people fills you with dread.

• You hide your teeth as much as possible, smiling with your lips closed or always putting your hand in front of your

mouth when you speak, smile or laugh.

• You fear what may be going on in your mouth, and this fear is with you at some point in almost every day.

If any of these sound like you, you need to know that dentistry can help you, from very simple techniques, to others which can make a dramatic difference.

Look, I know you know dentistry can fix teeth.

So, what’s stopping you?

Well, maybe all of the above?

Maybe the fear of the experience of what it will be like to go and sit in a dental chair and open your mouth in front of a stranger? Or the dread of being told things you

what they are dealing with, and they know what steps to take to get where they want to be.

You are back in control of your teeth, rather than vice-versa.

Your teeth shouldn’t hold you back in the way they are now.

Is this your time to take action?

don’t want to hear? Or the fear of being judged?

All of these are perfectly normal feelings.

But perhaps the most useful thing I can tell you is this. Helping an anxious patient get to the point of being confident in their smile is a fantastic and incredibly rewarding thing for people like us.

We believe a dental surgery should be a safe place to release

‘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

Five secrets What is the key to successful living?

Here, 5 secrets for leading a full and meaningful life let that get in the way. What I say is start small — maybe you can’t just turn your whole life over but you can integrate some of the things that you want into your life. Sometimes even doing some of what is most true to you fills the soul. Don’t let the perfect get in the way.

S

tudies have found that a person’s outlook on life may not only improve longevity but quality of life. Optimists, in fact, are said to experience a higher level of both physical and mental functioning than their pessimist counterparts. And people who perceive themselves to be happy are less likely to become ill, researchers say.

So what is the key to successful living? Author John Izzo set out to answer that very question in his book The Five Secrets You Must Discover Before You Die. Named the best self-help book of 2008 by the Independent Publisher’s Association, it is based on a five-hour Biography Channel TV series in which Dr. Izzo interviewed 230 people from age 60106 asking them to reflect back on what they had learned about life.

Interviewees ranged from a town barber to CEOs, from aboriginal chiefs to Holocaust survivors. All were considered by others to be ‘wise elder’ and to have something important to teach about how to live well and be happy.

Amnong them, Dr. Izzo says, they represent over 18,000 years of life experience.

We asked Dr. Izzo about what he

learned from his research. In other words, what must we discover about life before we die?

Secret #1: Be true to yourself Q. Good advice to be sure, but life can be terribly busy. With so many voices, expectations and responsibilities crowding our daily lives, how to know if we’re following our heart?

A. It’s true we all have this unelected board of directors that we carry around with us: the voice of our parents, society, and others telling us what it means to be successful. But many of the people I interviewed said that each one of us has an inner voice inside of us that is reliable but that we have to create space to hear it. One of the simplest ways to hear the inner voice is to build reflection into your life and ask three simple questions: Did the last week or month of my life feel like how I want to be living my life? Am I doing what I really want to do with my life — have I heeded my calling? Is this who I really am?

Q. What if our financial or other responsibilities put up a roadblock for making the changes we want?

Page 14 Mature Living October 2014

A. This is an important question because many people say that they should have done something else with their life but felt trapped. My book is filled with examples of people who did not

Secret #2: Leave no regrets Q. I think this resonates with many of us who are looking for more meaning in our personal lives and careers. Yet to move beyond the familiar requires a fair amount of courage. How to overcome the ingrained fear of failing — or of making a huge mistake?

A. One of the most striking things about these interviews is that so few people regretted their failures. What they regretted was not having tried or having left a dream in the closet. Leaving no regrets is not possible, but knowing that you pursued your life as far as you could is possible.

It’s about dancing even though you fear looking silly, writing a book even if you aren’t sure anyone will publish it; it’s about loving even if you have been hurt, and living as if you’ve only got one shot at it.

A woman in her 70s told me that whenever she had a step she was afraid of taking she would imag-

ine the worst that could happen and ask herself if she could handle it. Then she’d imagine the best that could happen if she took the step. After she made the decision, she would focus only on the best that could happen. Most of us do the opposite — we think briefly about the best thing that could happen and obsess about the worst thing. The principle is simple: You don’t want your last words to be “I wish I had.”

Secret #3: Become love Q. I was inspired by how the focus of this secret is not on receiving, but giving love, and in fact “becoming love”.

A. Yes, many people told me the secret to happiness is not to get love but to be a loving person, which they said is a choice. They told me to love fully, forgive even when it’s hard, make people a priority, and that when you choose to love it comes back to you in the form of happiness. We live in a society where we are always told the secret is to have others love or admire you but these people kept telling me it’s the other way around.

Q. Did any of your interviewees speak of ways to handle loss and love’s disappointments or hurts?

A. Yes, we are afraid to love and be vulnerable. A woman in her

for a happy life There are some simple ways to train your mind to be in the moment and to cultivate contentment. The first step is to practice gratitude. Start and end your day going over what you are grateful for. Then train your mind to be in the moment.

Whenever you find yourself worrying about the future, gently bring yourself back to the present moment. Whenever you find yourself thinking, “I will be happy when…” tell yourself, “I can choose happiness now.” In the book, there is an entire section on how to do this.

Secret #5: Give more than you take Q. Most of us know how gratifying it can be — at times surprisingly so — to be of service to others, even in the smallest way. Yet we seem to get locked into our daily routines, tasks and to-do lists. What is your best advice on changing habits?

A. To change habits is the hardest part for many people. We may know all these secrets, but

we don’t know how to live them. A man in his seventies told me, “It’s not enough to know. When you know you have to go.” That’s why I spent an entire chapter on how to live the secrets. My simplest suggestion is to take a small wallet/pocket sized card and write down on it what you most want to keep in your awareness—such as live in the moment, be a giver, be true to self, or whatever most calls to you. Carry that card around with you wherever you go for 34 months. Our research shows that if you carry a card with you, the mind shifts you in that direction moment to moment.

Dr. John Izzo is the best-selling author of four books including The Five Secrets You Must Discover Before You Die and Second Innocence. He hosted a fivehour Biography and PBS special on The Five Secrets. He has spoken to over one million people on creating successful lives and socially responsible companies.

sixties told me her biggest regret was that she went through a divorce when she was in her 40s and never opened up to love again. I wish there was a simple formula, but what I can tell you is that those who opened up and took the chance did not regret it. Those who held back wished they had opened up. They also talked to me about anger and forgiveness. Many people said that they wished they had let hurts go and they wished they had not gotten angry with someone they loved over things that did not really matter.

Secret #4: Live the moment Q. For people who are either living in the past – remembering the ‘good ole days’ or regretting a mistake — or the future (“I’ll be happy as soon as…”), what is your best advice for embracing the moment and learning how to be happy with what you have, in the here and now?

A. You hit the nail on the head.

What these people told me is you can’t change the past so be gentle with yourself. It’s only a mistake if you keep doing it.

They said happiness is not out there in anything you don’t have right now — not in an accomplishment, or a person, or on the weekend.

Page 15 Mature Living October 2014

Health

Laugh out loud: The healing benefits of laughter

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little chuckle goes a long way when it comes to maintaining your health.

Body and soul have a laugh and you’ll get happy!

“Laughter is an instant vacation.” When Milton Berle (pictured) said this, he wasn’t too far off, according to some researchers who think laughter is like a wonder drug capable of treating a host of maladies related to stress and lifestyle.

“Laughter therapy is making people laugh for healing purposes,” says Albert Nerenberg, a journalist, documentary filmmaker (for instance, Laughlology, in 2009) and laugh-ologist, an expert who lectures on the science, practice and therapeutic effects of laughter. He brings the therapy to the workplace to help relieve stress and increase motivation, and to the healthcare profession to promote and maintain health. But he cautions, “Occasionally, you hear wild claims that laughter therapy cures cancer or a terminal illness. The therapy holds great promise, but there is a danger of creating false expectations.”

Researchers continue to study laughter’s effects and have made some discoveries on how it benefits our well-being.

Brain chemicals From a neurological perspective, pioneering studies

by Dr. Lee Berk and Dr. Stanley Tan of Loma Linda University Medical Center in California have shown that laughing

blood and oxygen flow throughout your body. This may help protect against heart attacks and strokes by relaxing constricted blood vessels and promoting relaxation, which may lower levels of cortisol, a hormone known to contribute to high blood pressure, as do constricted blood vessels.

Researchers from the University of Texas at Austin measured the blood flow of 17 volunteers after watching a comedy or a documentary. The comedy group showed significantly increased heart rate and blood flow of 17 per cent for up to 24 hours. Conversely, among the documentary viewers, blood vessels constricted by 15 per cent. Constricted arteries can lead to high blood pressure. triggers a flood of pleasureinducing neurotransmitters, like dopamine, in the brain. Low levels of both these brain chemicals are associated with the winter blues and Seasonal Affective Disorder, which affects almost 20 per cent of Canadians. Nerenberg has been using laughter therapy to help treat drug addicts at a residential drug rehab centre located near the Quebec-U.S. border. “Laughing produces dopamine in the brain much in the same way as cocaine,” he explains, “so you essentially substitute laughing fits for drug addiction, addicting people to a positive behaviour rather than a negative one. They’re after rushes and really don’t care where they get them.”

Immune response A depressed immune system is vulnerable to colds and viruses.

According to a 2001 study in Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, laughter boosts the activity of your system’s natural killer cells and other defences by increasing the number of antibody-producing cells. Laughter enhances the response of disease-killing cells such as gamma-interferon, disease-fighting protein; B cells, which produce diseasedestroying antibodies; and T cells, key to immune system response.

Stress response “We once thought laughter was the opposite of crying, but it’s more appropriate to think of it as the opposite of stress,” explains Nerenberg. He says

Page 16 Mature Living October 2014

laughter affects the nervous and endocrine systems by metabolizing stress hormones, which include cortisol and adrenaline, the fight-or-flight compounds released during times of stress. Stress hormones bombard the heart, forcing it to beat as if in a constant state of fight or flight. But laughter appears to reduce the amount of stress hormones your body produces.

Blood flow A good laugh can be good for your heart. Laughter helps expand capillaries, increasing

Social benefits Laughing with others is more powerful than laughing alone, so plan some face time with friends.

Sharing laughter is one of the most effective tools for keeping relationships strong and resilient. Simply anticipating laughter was found to release beneficial hormones while lowering levels of harmful chemicals in the body. Laughter can also stimulate creative thoughts that lead to a greater sense of self-worth and optimism.

Speaking of optimism In 2011, Nerenberg worked with Maxwell House on a survey about optimism, and the results are positive.

Eighty-five per cent of us consider ourselves optimistic; 86 per cent of us feel that optimism is contagious; and 79 per cent of us try to encourage pessimists to be more optimistic.

Encourage your own healthier outlook by adding these simple laughter-inducing habits.

Smile early and often in the day; it produces a mild hormonal change that can improve your mood and produce positive emotions. Smiling is the beginning of laughter and, like laughter, it’s contagious.

Look up at the ceiling, and you’ll notice a positive lift.

There’s no science to explain this, but it’s a fairly universal phenomenon, says Nerenberg.

The opposite is true as well; if you walk around looking down, you’ll start to feel down.

Fake it till you feel it Just going through the motions will trigger real laughter. Studies show the positive effects of smiling occur even if the smile is fake; faked laughter also provides the same benefits.

Healthly Living

The Benefits of Fruit Eat Apples, Not Capsules F orget the multivitamins and supplements.But do remember to buy apples and eat at least one every day, especially if you’re over 50.

That’s the surprisingly strong message in recent weeks from

researchers and respected medical journals. “Stop wasting money on vitamin and mineral supplements,” advises an editorial in Annals of Internal Medicine, in no uncertain terms.

“Most supplements do not

prevent chronic disease or death, their use is not justified, and they should be avoided.”

A study of male physicians aged 65 years or older found that long-term use of a daily multivitamin did not provide cognitive benefits.

The scientists also maintain that most supplement users in Ireland and other developed countries show no evidence of vitamin deficiencies and don’t need supplements, which may be doing more harm than good.

High doses of such vitamins as Vitamin E and beta carotene could be harmful, they warn, while B vitamins and folic acid are harmful or ineffective in preventing chronic disease.There’s also a significant risk of mislabeling and contamination with supplements, which are unregulated. Recently, University of Guelph researchers

Ten Servings Of Tomatoes a Week Lower Risk Of Prostate Cancer

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ating 10 portions of tomatoes every week can lower men’s risk of developing prostate cancer by almost 20 per cent, suggests a study published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology.

Researchers at three British universities compared the diets and lifestyle of 1,806 men aged between 50 and 69 with prostate cancer and those of 12,005 cancer-free men. Men who had an optimal intake of selenium (found in bread and pasta), calcium and the antioxidant lycopene, found in tomatoes, had a lower risk of prostate cancer.

Tomatoes and its products – such as tomato juice and baked beans in tomato sauce – were shown to be most beneficial, with an 18 per cent reduction in risk found in men eating over 10 portions a week.

Lycopene fights off toxins that can cause DNA and cell damage.

“Our findings suggest that tomatoes may be important in prostate cancer prevention,” reported the lead researcher. “However, further studies need to be conducted to confirm our findings, especially through human trials. Men should still eat a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, maintain a healthy weight and stay active.”

There’s no advice from the experts on whether a Bloody Mary can count as one (or more) of the 10 portions.

tested 44 herbal products from 12 companies.

They found that more than half the products contained ingredients not listed on the label, while cheaper ingredients, contaminants and fillers were often substituted for quality ingredients.

Contamination and substitution can pose considerable health risks for consumers, warned the researchers.

For example, a product labelled as St. John’s wort was substituted with an herbal laxative that can cause chronic diarrhea and liver damage with prolonged use. Researchers suggest jettisoning the pills and capsules and supplementing instead with Mother Nature in the form of vegetables and fruits. Apples, especially.

Prescribing an apple a day to all adults aged 50 and over

would prevent or delay around 8,500 vascular deaths, such as heart attacks and strokes every year in Britain – similar to giving statins to everyone over 50 years who is not already taking them – according to The British Medical Journal.

As well, research suggests that statins can reduce the risk of vascular events irrespective of a person’s underlying risk of cardiovascular disease.

“As such, calls are being made for greater use of statins particularly for people aged 50 years and over.”

However, side-effects from statins mean that prescribing statins to everyone over the age of 50 is predicted to lead to over 1,000 extra cases of muscle disease (myopathy) and over 10,000 extra diagnoses of diabetes. Fortunately, apples are almost as effective as statins and they taste good, too.

Spice it up: 5 Benefits of Chili Powder

When you’re chowing down on spicy ethnic foods like Indian curries and Mexican tacos, you may not realize that you’re ingesting a key ingredient. This magic ingredient I speak of is chili powder! With a high concentration of capsaicin, this flavourful spice does more than pack a punch. Here are five ways chili powders benefit you.

Helps with Osteoarthritis: Chili power can act as an anti-inflammatory agent, which helps decrease swelling of sore joints and increases blood flow.

Settles the Stomach: Though many associate chili powder with causing upset stomach, it actually prevents acid reflux and kills the bacteria that causes stomach ulcers.

Fights Fat: The capsaicin compound found in chili powder revs your metabolism, which increases your fat burning skills. Bonus!

Builds Immunity: The fiery spice contains vitamin C, acting as an antioxidant to strengthen the immune system and heal injuries and infections.

Sexual Arousal: Capsaicin also stimulates sexual arousal by prompting the release of feelgood endorphins.

Page 17 Mature Living October 2014

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

Why make a Will?

By Louise Cresham of Vincent Deane & Co. Solicitors

T

his is a question frequently asked by clients. Death is not something we like to think about or plan for. However, a little thought and some planning now could ease the practical and financial issues your family, friends and dependants will face at that time.

One of the main reasons and advantages of making a will is that it allows you to provide for the distribution of your property by means of a legal document. It means that the devolution of your estate is not left to the State under Intestacy rules.

The absence of a Will is akin to losing control over the distribution of assets on death.

The Succession Act 1965 then determines who is to inherit and in a lot of cases this can be contrary to what the deceased would have wished. It often leads to the most unsuitable

person assuming the role of the personal representative.

In practise people are reluctant to make a will because they have a superstition that death follows a will or they do not want to set aside time to organise their affairs on their death.

It is also a misconception that because a person does not have a large amount of assets, that a will is less necessary. A Will is relevant to every person who has responsibilities as well as assets.

A Will is a document which details how a person (the "testator" - or "testatrix", if female) wishes to dispose of his or her property on death. Many people have the intention of making a will but are often reluctant to do so. If you don't make a will then you will have no say as to how your assets are distributed after your death.

You may amend your will at any time. In fact, it's a good idea to review it periodically and in particular when your marital status changes.

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.

For a will to be valid in Ireland, the testator must: be aged 18 or over, act of your own free will and be of sound mind, memory and understanding. The will must be in writing and the document must be signed at the end by the testator (or by someone in his presence and by his direction). The signature must be written or acknowledged in the presence of two witnesses, both present at the same time.

Trying to make your own will, without legal assistance, can lead to errors and render a will invalid.

It is important that you inform your family/ next of kin in your lifetime as to what your funeral wishes are as your Will may not be read until after your funeral.

The firsts step to consider in making a Will is identifying all of your assets. It is advisable to make take a comprehensive list of your financial assets: bank accounts, credit cards, investments, stocks and shares etc.

It is important to identity how

your assets are held. One type of ownership is known as joint property, often property or bank accounts shared by spouses.

These wouldn't be distributed by the terms of a will; they are passed to the surviving owner by operation of the law. However, if an account is held in one person's name, it's passed through a will.

The Law does impose certain restrictions on how you can deal with your estate. A spouse/ civil partner has what is known as a Legal Right Share ( LRS) to half of your estate where there are no children and if there are children a spouse/ civil partner is entitled to one-third of your estate.

An executor must be appointed in your Will. It is advisable to choose the person(s) best suited to carrying out the terms of your Will. This is one of the advantages of making a Will as you get to choose the person(s) who are best suited to this role.

A minimum of two executors is recommended.

If you have young children

under 18 years old, your Will should specify your instructions in relation to the care of the children and how they are to provided for in the event of your death. Both married and unmarried couples should ensure that their Wills clearly identify who is to have custody if both spouses die.

Being separated or divorced from your spouse does not mean that your spouse loses the legal right share of your estate. It is possible to have rights cancelled under a separation agreement or can be extinguished by a Court Order following divorce.

It is important to remember that a Will does not take effect until the death of the testator.

There is a common belief that is a testator leaves property to a person in their will, they cannot dispose of it in their lifetime.

Louise Cresham is a Solicitor at the office of Vincent Deane & Co. Solicitors, Thomas Street, Castlebar, Co.Mayo, Telephone 09490 22980

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Gardening

The Art of Visual Merchandising

By Rodney Munn Whether you own a shop of 700 sq. feet or a large store of 10,000 sq. feet or a huge general drapers or a complete superstore it is your space and how you use it really matters.

But it is important to realise that there are general design

rules that you have to manage and present your store in a way that can ultimately increase the success of that space.

In this article I will attempt to convey the thought behind the use of our space in ej Menswear.

There are a number of basic principles that you can apply, and also to allow for a measure of creativity that can add an appealing factor that will draw a person into the shop, or when they are in there to present something that makes it impossible for them to pass by.

The shop front at ej Menswear

is a protected building and is over one hundred years old, and has an unusual shape and presents a challenge in itself.

However it has its own beauty that in itself can stop people for a second glance.

So some of the principles to keep in mind when looking at this window is number 1 the light, colour, and a balance between the three sections of the window, and generally to have an overall theme in mind.

The different themes could be denim dominated, semi casual, dressy casual, a suit window or one that features the wedding hire department.

To be able to stop people in the street and entice them to look or even to come in is what it’s all about.

However just as important is the attention giving to the space inside the shop and the presentation giving to the different categories of product.

The same ideas apply so LIGHTING is important, and we mean not just light but the different degrees, and the adding of shadows, all can play a part to the atmosphere giving to the overall look. The attention giving to putting COLOURS together can be an under rated attraction, this can give the

customers ideas immediately and make it easy when choosing items that match and for us can result in multiple sales.

Each display must have a shape or DESIGN rather than being just thrown together, it is easier on the eye and can actually present a full picture.

Each season presents its own challenges like the spring/summer can bring a splash of colour and has it’s own personality which needs harnessing and some measure of control so it doesn’t become over powering. As we now get into the Autumn/Winter obviously the colours are darker, and the colour matching and presentation will rely more on

the use of LIGHTING and a balance between the heavier items eg. Jackets , chunky knitwear and the lighter items in a range.

The art of visual merchandising has become of greater value especially in a time of recession we need to make use of every possible means and to capitalise on these to increase the opportunities for more sales. And on a final overall principle, merchandising isn’t about filling every possible space, for space itself is as equally important. So come in to ej Menswear and take a look around and enjoy the experience, we certainly take the whole shop and all that entails seriously.

The Matchmaker comes to Ballina Arts Centre advisable. Tickets €18/€16.

Contact Ballina Arts Centre at 096-73593. www.ballinartscentre.com.

Indeed, September is an exciting month at the Arts Centre with many other events not to be missed:

T

here is a real buzz of excitement in the air as Ireland's most loved actress, Mary McEvoy (formerly Biddy of Glenroe) and greatest comedic talent, Jon Kenny, star in the highly anticipated production of The Matchmaker which is showing at Ballina Arts Centre, 27th September.

Michael Scott's iconic production of The Matchmaker promises audiences the very best in entertainment. It is an emotional rollercoaster, although it has audiences around the country holding themselves

from laughing so much. The Matchmaker is essentially about trying to combat loneliness in rural Ireland and as John B Keane says "every old shoe finding an old stocking".

At the centre of this celebrated production, of course, is Keane’s marvellous and mischievous wit, coupled with his unparalled way with words.

The play is not to be missed, and will, undoubtedly, stay in your thoughts long after you have exited the doors of Ballina Arts Centre.

Early booking is certainly

Culture Night Friday 19th September Focusing on children entertaining and educational workshops, games, face painting and many other fun activities.

At 6pm, the Centre will host a screening of Kings, written & directed by Tom Collins and based on Jimmy Murphy's play The Kings of the Kilburn High Road. The film stars Colm Meaney and Donal O’Kelly and is bilingiual (Irish and English).

Friday 26th September 8pm Dick Gaughan - one of the finest guitarists and singers on the planet.

8pm €15/€12 096-73593 Thursday 25th September, 8pm Fabulous Beast present Rian UnPlugged Featuring Liam Ó Maonlaí Director (Lead singer with Hothouse Flowers) and Choreographer Michael KeeganDolan

Rian is directed and choreographed by Michael Keegan-Dolan with musical direction from Liam Ó Maonlaí, of Hothouse Flowers. Winner of a 2013 Bessie (New York Dance and Performance Award) for Outstanding Production, Rian premiered in the Dublin Theatre Festival in 2011. Not to be missed. Tickets: €16/€14 Booking essential.

Thursday 18th September 8pm An Ordinary Man – Beezneez Theatre Written and directed by John McDwyer, full of witty comment, trademark McDwyer humour and and heartbreaking in equal measure. 8pm €15/€12 09673593

Mary Foudy O’Halloran: Weighed (Exhibition) Working with mixed media, building up layers, making marks, balancing tints and tones in the process, Mary’s work often re-examines the past in the now, questioning ordinaries and the familiar; often objects of loss.

Runs until the 27th September.

096-73593 www.ballinaartscentre.com Ballina Arts Centre is open from 10am – 5pm Monday to Friday, and 10am – 3pm on Saturdays.

For further information, please contact Ballina Arts Centre, Barrett St., Ballina, Co. Mayo.

Tel: 096 73593; e-mail: ballinaartscentre@eircom.net

INSPIRED PLANTING

CONCEPT GARDENS T

Garden Designer and TV presenter Leonie Cornelius discusses how garden festivals like Chaumont sur Loire in France are paving the way for experimental gardens and opening up garden design to everyone. he journey to reach the small village of Chaumont sur Loire in itself is quite magical.

Taking the slow road along the Loire valley, where houses are built into caves and ‘degustation’ of wine and cognac tempt you to stop every few hundred metres one feels a little bit like time has stopped. To say the area is steeped in history is a bit of an understatement. The Loire valley has some of the France’s most elegant and grand castles due to it being the place where 16th century royalty preferred to spend the bulk of their time.

It is here, in the 10th Century castle of Chaumont sur Loire that we see a fascinating mix of history and modern thinking.

The castle, which once was home to Diane de Poitiers, Catherine de Medici and Nostradamus amongst others, is now a major hub of culture and art.

The place that inspired Balzac, Vigny and Proust is now fittingly the host to a vibrant cultural programme including installations by

contemporary artists, exhibitions by great photographers and the International Garden Festival of Chaumont sur Loire.

This concept based and boundary breaking international showgarden design festival and the surrounding landscapes are devoted to the relationship between nature and culture, artistic creation and the impact of the landscape, heritage and contemporary art.

The fascinating juxstaposition of ancient history and modern thought sees an incredibly interesting and unique design process emerging. The jury of the festival encourages crossgenre collaboration and there

Page 20 Mature Living October 2014

are few restriction in terms of who can enter as long as there is one Garden Designer or Landscaper in the group.

Groups of artists, architects, garden designers, and students of all artistic genres come together to create 24 amazing gardens based on the ‘concept’, which changes every year.

Concept. noun: an abstract idea. Though many flower shows such as Bloom and Chelsea have a concept section, Chaumont is one of a few, including Metis in Canada, to be fully conceptual in approach. The concept, or theme for this years gardens was ‘Gardens of the Deadly Sins’ which made me immediately want to start designing a garden.

How exciting to design a garden around Lust, or Pride or Envy! How fascinating to use the idea of Wrath or Sloth to shape the look and feel of a garden and not be bound by the normal restrictions of what makes a ‘pretty garden‘.

The idea of conceptual gardens set against the backdrop of the Chateau and its English naturalistic landscaped grounds is almost surreal in feel here and makes the often modern and urban garden designs contrast quite strongly to the ancient formal surroundings of the Loire valley.

But it works, and it works well, drawing visitors from all over the world. Though many of these gardens are the last thing that most people would imagine for their own domestic settings, the message here is strong. These gardens are created to make us feel, good and bad. To make us question actions and study reactions.

For example, one of the gardens was heavily scented by the stench of rubber and was highly effective in creating a reaction from the viewer, thus creating awareness of climate change and highlight our moral responsibility to the environment. There was a garden so ‘Gluttonous red’ in plant and mulch that when I sat at the banquet table overlooking the ‘floral feast’ I felt irritation and frustration. This was exactly the aim of the designers.

Another garden sees a highly conceptual space based on a Mauri legend of two smoking male volcanoes fighting over a female volcano was a stunning space to be in, telling a lovely story and showing that conceptual gardens can be beautiful.

In French the word Peach tree, ‘Pecher’ is pronounced the same as the word ‘Peche’, which means sin, and this cropped up in a few gardens this year illustrating sexuality as the biblical metaphor of the Apple and creating some interesting stories based on Lust.

The whole idea of the festival, ancient tradition and modern design was shown

beautifully and simply, in the design based on the vanity of Narcissus.

A giant gilt mirror reflecting the rounded Castle towers showed how well old and new can not only co-exist but create a new, exciting approach born from the risk taking of an open minded Jury and talented artists collaborating for the love of design.

The International Festival of Gardens runs from the 11th April to the 2 of November. www.domaine-chaumont.fr Story by Leonie Cornelius Garden Design and Interior Architecture-Blume Design house. www.blume.ie

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BEFORE

AFTER

Telephone Brendan on 085-2197085

Angelscope for September

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

Angel of healing This summer has flown for you Aries. You may feel the need of some TLC before the September rush begins. This angel also brings emotional healing over an issue hat has been troubling you. Your angels advise you that you need to hand over your problems so they can take care of them. A walk near a Forrest or place if natural beauty will restore weary spirits.

Lucky Day: 30th September Lucky colour: Green

Angel of answered prayers You prayers are bring answered! Your angel has heard your call but you need to get out of your own way so they can help you!

Too often when we fixate on a problem we make that problem bigger than it actually is.

You are being guided to let go and let god and watch as your prayers manifest into reality.

Lucky Day: 15th September Lucky colour: White

Angel of soul mate Gemini you are in the mood for love and for those single Gemini's the later part of this month will bring in a meeting with a very interesting character. Say yes to a new opportunity! For those in relationships, you are being guided to spend some quality time together. This can mean a meal out or a simple walk with each other.

Take time to add some romance into your relationship and ignite that spark!

Lucky Day: 19 th September Lucky colour: purple

Leo

Virgo

Libra

Angel of retreat Sometimes it's wise to retreat from the world to creat a solitary space just for you. This can be a long soak in a hot bath, a walk in the woods or an early night listening to your favourite music. You are being guided to take some time out and re connect with your own inner wisdom.

Take a deep breath and breathe in the positive energy as you exhale the stress of the last few weeks. Time out will give you some perspective on your current situation.

Lucky Day: 14th September Lucky colour: Blue

Angel of romance To truly fall in love, we must fall in love with ourselves first.There is no such thing as the perfect relationship. All it requires that two imperfect people are perfect for each other! This card asks for you to find the balance in your love life. If you are single, ask yourself what is it truly that you seek?

Focus only on the positive aspects me bring that self love into your life. If you are in a relationship, instead of focusing on the flaws, draw the attention to the positive aspects and compliment your partners attentiveness. You will soon find you are pulling together as a unit instead of against each other! Lucky Day: 28th September Lucky colour: Pink

Sagi#arious

Capricor$

Angel of freedom Poor Sagittarius, your head is full of other people's problem to month. There is a list a mile long on your head of things to do, bills to be paid etc. this summer has come and gone in a blink for you and you may feel slightly overwhelmed. Ask yourself, how many things on your list truly belong to you?

Are you guilty of being a martyr? You are being advised to delegate, call in a favour if it's due and ask for support. This will enable you to have the freedom you desire. Help is there but you must seek it out!

Lucky Day: 19th September Lucky colour: Orange

Angel of manifestation The card of luck has entered your spread.

Be aware of your thoughts this month as you may manifest joy or manifest chaos! It's time to do an emotions check in with yourself. Is your glass half full or half empty? Its time to raise your energy and expect the best to happen as that is exactly what will unfold. The choice is yours Lucky Day: 17 September Lucky colour: Black

Angel of listening It's time to listen to the truth within. That time voice that tells you if something feels wrong or to act when someone feels right. It's time to drown out others opinions and voices as he situation you have asked for guidance with must come from yourself.

Take one step at a time as the pay will be revealed to you the more your trust.

Lucky Day: 20 th September Lucky colour: Pale blue

Aquarius

Angel of new beginnings Aquarius. you at closing he end of one chapter in your life and beginning a new.

The past cannot harm you, only if you let it.

For those of you seeking a new job, the 15th of the month should be quite a lucky time for news. Endings are new beginnings. You must close the door on one area of your life to truly open the door for joy to begin.

Lucky Day: 15th September Lucky colour: lilac

Cancer

Angel of balance Cancer, you have been rushing along at such a busy pace lately you may have been neglecting you own needs for the sake of others. Family can place such heavy burdens and responsibilities on us that we forget to look after ourselves. Take some time out or call a friend and release those worries that are living rent free in your head.

Everything will sort itself out but worrying will simply not make it go a away. Chin up advice is near. Lucky Day: 27th September Lucky colour: Olive Green

Scor"io

Angel of children It does not matter what age your children are, they can still drove you to distraction!

Try not to become involved in family disputes or become caught between sibling rivalry. Instead try to look for positive distractions or antidotes to remind them of how much you love the positive aspects of their personalities.

Be careful if your words, they may just come back to bite you!

Lucky Day: 29th September Lucky colour: Red

Pisces

Angel of music The angel of music has entered your card today to remind you of your connection with song. Turn on your records, turn up your music and dance. It is also a sign that a loved one in spirit is trying to connect with your through a familiar tune! Music has the power to lift our hearts in an instant and you will get a song as confirmation for the next move you are looking to take in your life's path. Lucky Day: 30th September Lucky colour: Gold

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

How to deal with people

How to deal with controlling People (Think in-laws, bosses, certain friends)

Y

ou know the type. Know-itall people who want things their own way all the time. When you stand up to

them or try to speak your own mind, you get shut down. Fast.

Confronting them is no good. It only seems to intensify the tur-

moil. Debra McGee a relationship expert, knows this all too well. She sees controlling people in her practice all the time.

“Confrontation illicits an instinctive knee-jerk reaction,” she says. “Even if you’re confronting someone about something where you know they’re wrong, the response is going to be akin to hitting a brick wall.

Confrontation is over-rated.

There are better ways to get your point across.”

So how do you deal with a controlling person without losing your cool?

First of all, Debra advises, ask yourself if the control is ‘actual control’ or ‘perceived control’.

In the case of your boss, for example, the control is real.

There’s a genuine imbalance of power. You have to stay on the boss’s good side if you want to stay employed and keep getting that paycheck– at least until you find another job. In the case of a controlling, fingerwagging friend who tells you what he/she thinks your adult kids should or shouldn’t be doing or what you should or shouldn’t be eating – well, that’s perceived control. You definitely have a choice as to whether or not you take their advice to heart.

“If you think you’re being manipulated learn to trust your

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gut,” says Debra. “Sometimes we cut people too much slack and when we don’t stop it early we set that dynamic in motion.”

In some cases, however, what seems like an attempt to control can actually be a cry to be heard. If you suspect someone might be feeling ignored, Debra suggests you “give them a chance to explain their position, hear them out and let them have the spotlight for a bit – even if you don’t agree with them.” Then it’s your turn.

“At that point, the other person must give you time to respond and listen to your point of view,” says Debra. “If they don’t, then walk away. It’s what I call ‘discuss and detach’.”

And know the difference between being opinionated and being controlling. They’re different animals. “We all have strong opinions,” says Debra, “but the line is crossed when somebody thinks everybody should see it the way they do and will go to whatever lengths to get you to agree with them.”

If you’re faced with that kind of person, taking the emotion out of the discussion is another way of dismantling the control mechanism. If your manipulative friend is in high gear, focus on the facts and filter out the rest – all those jabs and the digs, advises Debra, acknowledging it’s easier said than done.

If the emotional distancing doesn’t work, then physical distancing is the next step, she says. “Sometimes you just have to pull back and distance yourself. People tend to be a lot less controlling and a lot more amicable when they don’t see you very often.”

A final option when dealing with an unrelenting control freak is to ask yourself a serious question: ‘How much do I really need this relationship’? If one person always has to be in control, then it might be time to cut the ties. You may harbour hope the person will change, but chances are they won’t.

“Remember, this person has probably been like this his or her whole life,” says Debra.

“You may think, ‘if I say the right thing or present this idea in the right light, they’ll calm down’. Not likely.”

“Sometimes giving up is a viable option – and I don’t say that lightly. Controlling people have a way of causing all kinds of grief – and sometimes it’s just not worth it.”

Plumbing & Heating

Home is where the hearth is

M&K Oils Lecarrow, Strandhill, Co. Sligo

how to effectively seal your home consult SEAI’s Guide to Insulating Your Home.

W

e live in a world of ever growing energy-awareness.

Increasing home heating costs driven by fluctuating fuel prices mean we must try to use energy as efficiently and sustainably as possible, without compromising the comfort of our homes, workplaces and public buildings.

The aim of this leaflet is to give householders an informative guide to the various home heating systems available, and their relative merits.

Perhaps you want to improve the efficiency of your existing heating

system? Or maybe you wish to learn about the most up to date home heating technologies? If so, this booklet will give you clear, concise guidance on how to create warmth and comfort in your home, in ways that will help the environment and your pocket.

Wrap up well Before examining your heating system, it is important to review how well your house is insulated. For example, fitting draught excluders around windows and doors, where no draught protection is in place, can

cut heat loss by as much as 20% in winter.

Investing in high-grade insulation does more than cut down on heat loss. It also means that once your home is heated to the required temperature, it is easier for your heating system to maintain this temperature, so it uses less energy. Insulating your home can give long term benefits through reduced running costs. Capital investment in your heating system will also be reduced, as a smaller, more efficient heating unit will be required.

For further information on

Fuel – choose the sustainable option There are a number of factors to consider when selecting the type of fuel for your home. For example, availability, storage and cost all have to be taken into account. But just as important are the environmental impacts your choice of fuel will have.

Most of the energy we use in Ireland comes from fossil fuels - oil, coal, peat and gas. These are not renewable – once they are gone, they cannot be replenished. Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. This is a major contributor to climate change.

The sustainable alternative to fossil fuels is renewable energy and this will never be exhausted. Renewable energy is available to us in many forms.

Heat – meet your annual heat demand The total amount of heat required for a dwelling is called its Annual Heat Demand. This is a factor of: The Annual Heat Demand for a house will determine the required power output of the heat generator to be installed. It can be met from two main types of heating systems.

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Food and Drink

A Taste of

Germany Ingredients Original recipe makes 8 rouladen 1/4 cup Dijon mustard 8 (4 ounce) pieces round steak, pounded 1/4 inch thick 1/2 cup minced onion 2 teaspoons paprika 2 teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper 8 slices bacon 3 tablespoons canola oil 1 (12 ounce) can beef broth 1 1/4 cups water 2 tablespoons cornstarch 1 cup warm water 1/4 cup sour cream Directions Spread 1/2 tablespoon mustard over one side of each piece of meat. Sprinkle the onion,

"Here is a great recipe for authentic German Sourdough Bread. This bread tastes almost exactly like the bread we buy back home in Bavaria, Germany.

There, to this day, they bake their bread in a very old stone oven in the middle of a small village, once every 2 weeks.

They bake a whole bunch at once, and then you can buy it and freeze extras until the next baking day. It's the best German bread I know!"

Ingredients Original recipe makes 1 large loaf 1 1/2 ounces compressed fresh yeast 1 quart warm water 2 tablespoons white sugar 4 cups all-purpose flour 8 cups white rye flour 4 cups all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons salt 1 teaspoon white sugar 2 cups warm water

Directions First, make the sourdough starter. Crumble the yeast into a large bowl. Whisk in 1 quart of warm water and 2 tablespoons of sugar until dissolved. The water should be just slightly warmer than body temperature.

Gradually whisk in 4 cups of flour, continuing to mix until all lumps are gone. Cover with a dish towel, and let sit for 24 hours at room temperature.

After 24 hours, stir well, cover, and let stand another 24 hours.

It will be a thin, light-colored sourdough which is then ready to use.

In a large bowl, stir together the rye flour, 4 cups of all-purpose flour, salt and sugar. Mix in the sourdough starter using a wooden spoon, then stir in 2 cups of warm water. I transfer the dough to a heavy duty stand mixer to mix the first couple of minutes, then it can't handle

Page 26 Mature Living October 2014

the heavy dough and I start using my hands by turning the dough out onto a floured surface. A clean countertop works best.

Knead the dough, adding a few tablespoons of water at a time if it is too stiff. Fold the dough over, pull it apart, whatever you can do to get it kneaded up good. Total kneading time should be 15 to 20 minutes to get a smooth dough. Place the dough in a large bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, 1 to 2 hours.

When the dough has risen, scrape it out of the bowl and back onto a floured surface.

Knead for about 5 minutes.

This is important to activate the gluten. Shape into 1 or 2 long loaves. Place on baking sheets, and let rise for about 1 hour, or until your finger leaves an impression when you poke the bread gently.

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees

F (220 degrees C). Bake the bread for about 45 minutes for 2 loaves, 1 1/2 hours if you made one big loaf. Don't worry if the

deutschland

paprika, salt, and pepper evenly over the steaks. Lay one slice of bacon on each piece. Roll the steaks jelly-roll style and secure with toothpicks.

Heat the canola oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meat on all sides until browned. Add the beef broth and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low; cover and simmer until tender, about 30 minutes.

Remove the meat rolls. Strain the broth mixture and return liquid to the skillet. Whisk together the cornstarch and 1 cup of water. Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the skillet, stirring continually until the sauce has thickened, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the sour cream.

Return rolls to the sauce; serve immediately.

crust is dark. The bread will be delicious and so will the crust.

Cool completely before cutting.

I always freeze half.

Food and Drink

Ingredients Original recipe makes 12 servings 9 potatoes, peeled 6 slices bacon 3/4 cup chopped onions 2 tablespoons allpurpose flour 2 tablespoons white sugar 2 teaspoons salt 1/2 teaspoon celery seed 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper 3/4 cup water 1/3 cup distilled white vinegar Directions Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes and cook until tender but still firm, about 30 minutes. Drain, cool and slice thin.

Place bacon in a large, deep skillet.

Cook over medium

high heat until evenly brown. Drain, crumble and set aside, reserving drippings.

Saute onions in bacon drippings until they are goldenbrown.

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, celery seed, and pepper. Add to the sauteed onions and cook and stir until bubbly, then remove from heat. Stir in water and vinegar, then return to the stove and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Boil and stir for one minute.

Carefully stir bacon and sliced potatoes into the vinegar/water mixture, stirring gently until potatoes are heated through.

Wonderful chocolate layer cake which is soaked in Kirsch liqueur, with cherry filling.

Ingredients Original recipe makes 2 layer 8 inch round cake Change Servings 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup shortening 1 1/2 cups white sugar 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 1/2 cups buttermilk 1/2 cup kirschwasser 1/2 cup butter 3 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar 1 pinch salt 1 teaspoon strong brewed coffee 2 (14 ounce) cans pitted Bing cherries, drained

2 cups heavy whipping cream 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 tablespoon kirschwasser 1 (1 ounce) square semisweet chocolate Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line the bottoms of two 8 inch round pans with parchment paper circles. Sift together flour, cocoa, baking soda and 1 teaspoon salt. Set aside. Cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Beat in flour mixture, alternating with buttermilk, until combined. Pour into 2 round 8 inch pans.

Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out

clean. Cool completely.

Remove paper from the cakes. Cut each layer in half, horizontally, making 4 layers total. Sprinkle layers with the 1/2 cup kirshwasser.

In a medium bowl, cream the butter until light and fluffy. Add confectioners sugar, pinch of salt, and coffee; beat until smooth. If the consistency is too thick, add a couple teaspoons of cherry juice or milk.

Spread first layer of cake with 1/3 of the filling.

Top with 1/3 of the cherries. Repeat with the remaining layers.

In a separate bowl, whip the cream to stiff peaks.

Beat in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla and 1 tablespoon kirshwasser. Frost top and sides of cake. Sprinkle with chocolate curls made by using a potato peeler on semisweet baking chocolate.

Page 27 Mature Living October 2014

Memories

T

The Bands of our Showband Era

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

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

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

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

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

The Airchords Feature (1960-1972) F ormed by members of the Irish Air Corps, the Airchords came together in 1960. Two years after graduating from the Technical Training Squadron, Archie Raeside was on duty one night at the Officer’s Mess gate and was visited by two former student colleagues. They were Paddy O’Meara and Sean Kinsella.

“We are thinking of forming a showband and thought you might be interested - what do you think?” the boys asked Archie. He liked the idea and was pleased they considered him for the job of trumpeter so he said, “count me in.” The original line-up included Paddy O’Meara (tenor sax), Seanie Kinsella (drums), and Archie (trumpet). Then came Arthur O'Neill (tenor and alto sax), Myles Mooney (guitar), Ernie Berkenheier (RIP-bass) and Mick

McNamara (vocals).

Archie takes up the story, "Colonel W. J. Keane, our commanding officer, gave permission for us to use a room in the dining block for practice. In order to play in most dance halls and ballrooms around the country it was important to become a member of The Irish Federation of Musicians, so they were contacted and a date set for us to take the test. First we were questioned individually in the theory of music and then as a band, we performed a couple of numbers. Having passed the test and gained admittance to the federation we turned our attention to image. Like other Showbands, we appeared clean-shaven, well groomed and wearing white shirt, bow tie and a blazer, complete with pocket crest."

Back left to right: Dermot Ryan (sax), Sean Kinsella (drums), Tony Lynch (guitar), Myles Mooney (guitar), and Arthur O'Neill (sax) Front: Emmet Wynne (trumpet), Johnny Brown (bass), and Pat Lynch (vocals) Page 28 Mature Living October 2014

The band was initially managed by Nobby O'Reilly and for the first few years, like most of the showbands in the early 1960's the band continued to do their "day jobs" and it wasn't until late in 1964 that they took the major step of turning professional. They also changed managers and were then managed by Don Kinsella. A 1964 press release reported that Don was originally the trumpeter/vocalist with the band.

Archie was the first to leave the band when he was selected as the official photographer to accompany the first Irish United Nations troops to serve overseas since the foundation of the state. Details of his role and of the members of the 32nd. and 33rd. Battalions, in what was an historic and groundbreaking operation for the Irish Defence Forces are recorded in his book, The Congo-1960. Myles Mooney was also sent to the Congo and was "replaced" by Liam Hurley, who would turn out to be a significant addition to the band as he wrote songs and handled the band's musical arrangements. However, Myles did return to the band a short time later. Archie was initially replaced by Phil O'Reilly.

1965 was a big year for the band as early on the appeared on RTE's Showband Show, but around the same time, lost their lead singer, Joe Fitzmaurice who went to the Altonaires. However, his replacement would be Pat Lynch (brother of the Dixie's Steve Lynch), who came from the recently split Clipper Carlton. In 1964 the Clippers split into the Santa Fe Showband and the Clippers. Pat would guide the Airchords' fortunes until their breakup.

The band released its first single, A Knock On the Door on March 29, 1965 and Pat made his debut with the band a few weeks later on Easter Sunday, 1965.

Although the record failed to make an impact on the charts, it established the Airchords as a bona fide player on the growing Irish ballroom circuit after being part time for the first five years.

The band followed with two more singles, Are You Sincere and Worry, once again neither of which made the charts, but their fortunes would soon change. In July, 1966, Danny Ellis would leave the band to join with Jim Farley's Band and he would be replaced by Dermot Ryan. Later that year, the band jumped on the growing showband ballad craze and released The Leaving of Liverpool which would crack the Irish top ten rising to number six, the band's first chart hit.

A few months later, around March, 1967, the band would be in the charts again when The Irish Soldier reached number three.

However, at the same time, the band lost one of its musical mainstays when Liam Hurley left to follow Danny Ellis into Jim Farley's band. He was replaced on guitar by Pat's brother Tony Lynch, who had come from the Earl Gill's Hoedowners.

An article in the Sligo Champion's Showband column in November, 1967 reported that Aidan Hand was now the band's manager. It also told a lengthy tale of their new single being called The Chickens Round the Garden. However, we can find no record of this ever being released as at the same time, late 1967, the band had its first number one hit, Treat Me Daughter Kindly.

In early 1969, Ernie Berkenheier, one of only three original members left would leave the band and was replaced by bassist Johnny Brown, who had been with the beat group Magazine and would soon go one to bands like The Billy Brown Band and the Real McCoy. A little later in the year another founding member of the band, Arthur O'Neill left, along with four other members in October, 1969 to form the core of a new band being put together to back former Colours vocalist Brian "Red" Hurley, brother of Liam. Dermot Ryan (sax), Arthur O'Neill (sax), Emmet Wynne (trumpet) and Myles Mooney (guitar) and Johnny Browne (bass) left to join the newly formed Wheels.

At this point, the only original member of the band left was drummer Sean Kinsella.

The band needed to be rebuilt in a hurry and they brought in Norman Clifford, Dave Curran, Arthur Madden and Billy Hopkins.

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

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

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

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

Letter to the Editor

Hi Seamus, Congrats. on another wonderful issue of MATURE LIVING - a great magazine.

Under the photo of THE HOEDOWNERS in the August issue, you have "unknown" for the guitarist in the centre - well I can tell you his name is TONY LYNCH from Cork - a brother of Pat Lynch of Pat Lynch & the Airchords. Tony played lead guitar. Pat sang at my wedding in 1970 and we are friends to this day. He just passed the 80 mark, lives in Cork and is hale and hearty!

Kindest regards, Joe Kelly. Sligo Choral Festival

Top singles - 1969

Left to right: Joe Fitzmaurice (vocals), Arthur O'Neill (sax), Paddy O'Meara (sax), Myles Mooney (guitar-holding sax), Archie Raeside (trumpet), Liam Hurley (guitar), Ernie Berkenheier (RIP - bass) and Sean Kinsella (drums). Liam is Brian "Red" Hurley's brother and went on to join Wheels and the Nevada.

As with many bands of the era, major shakeups in the lineup usually signaled the beginning of the end of the band and so it was for the Airchords.

Now down to a seven piece, the band, mainly of the strength of Pat Lynch's vocals, continued to have popular records, despite the turmoil it faced in its lineup.

Tony Lynch left the band in December, 1970 and emigrated (he would eventually return to Ireland). He was replaced by Fergie Burke. Just three months later, in March, 1971 Fergie was to feature on the band's next record, When We Were Young.

Just before the band went into the recording studios, Dave, Arthur and Billy took up an offer to form a new band backing Paddy Day and they became the core of the Wanderin Stars. Norman Clifford also left

to join Ian Corrigan's band.

The split could not have come at a worse time as Pat knew the upcoming record was a hit. In an act of desperation, the entire lineup of the Regal Showband was hired In August of 1971, Fergie Burke, Arthur Madden and Billy Hopkins left the band and joined the revamped Royal Showband after the departure of Brendan Bowyer and Tom Dunphy to start the Big 8. It is unclear whether this was the "end" of the Airchords or whether they kept going for another year or so. We are doing our best to find out and if you know any more, please let us know.

By the early seventies (we're not sure of the precise date), the Airchords were no more and they amalgamated with the Regal Showband to form the new Treetops. Pat would quit the scene in September 1973.

1. Sean Dunphy & Hoedowners - The Lonely Woods of Upton (Dolphin) 2. Joe Dolan - Make Me An Island (Pye) 3. Brendan O'Brien & Dixies - The Joys of Love (honey) 4. Real McCoy - Quick Joey Small (Target) 5. Joe Dolan - Teresa (Pye) 6. Sean Dunphy & Hoedowners - When the Fields Are White With Daisies (Dolphin) 7. Margo & Keynotes - The Road By the River (Target) 8. Muriel Day & Lindsays - Wages of Love (Dolphin) 9. Real McCoy - Many the Memories (Target) 10. Sands - Bubblegum Music (Tribune) 11. Sean Fagan - My Lovely Rose and You (Tribune) 12. Dreams - Casatchock (Dolphin) 13. Larry Cunningham - Pretty Little Girl From Omagh 14. Times - Hitching To Miami (Dolphin) 15. Times - Dozey (Dolphin) 16. Freshmen - Just To See You Smile (Target) 17. Real McCoy - Round the Gum Tree (Target) 18. John McNally - Mary In the Morning (Cbs) 19. Two's Company - Eileen McManus (Honey) 20. Roly Daniels - Angel She Was Love (CBS) 21. Joe McCarthy & Dixies - All Together Now (Honey) 22. Dickie Rock & Miami - Emily (United Artists) 23. Mike Feeney & Virginians - Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder (Dolphin) 24. Tommy Drennan & Monarchs - Come Home Rolling Stone (Columbia) 25. Michael O'Callaghan, Eleanor Nodwell & Big Band Cuando Sali de Cuba (Honey) 26. Red Hurley & Colours - Poor Man's Roses (Target) 27. Smokey Mountain Ramblers - The Little Folk (Dolphin) 28. Tommy Drennan & Monarchs - Where Were You (Columbia) 29. Emeralds - The Golden Jubilee (Release) 30. Martin Codd & Herdsmen - Whisper Your Mother's Page 29 Mature Living October 2014

Memories

T

The Bands of our Showband Era

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

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

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

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

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

The Airchords Feature (1960-1972) F ormed by members of the Irish Air Corps, the Airchords came together in 1960. Two years after graduating from the Technical Training Squadron, Archie Raeside was on duty one night at the Officer’s Mess gate and was visited by two former student colleagues. They were Paddy O’Meara and Sean Kinsella.

“We are thinking of forming a showband and thought you might be interested - what do you think?” the boys asked Archie. He liked the idea and was pleased they considered him for the job of trumpeter so he said, “count me in.” The original line-up included Paddy O’Meara (tenor sax), Seanie Kinsella (drums), and Archie (trumpet). Then came Arthur O'Neill (tenor and alto sax), Myles Mooney (guitar), Ernie Berkenheier (RIP-bass) and Mick

McNamara (vocals).

Archie takes up the story, "Colonel W. J. Keane, our commanding officer, gave permission for us to use a room in the dining block for practice. In order to play in most dance halls and ballrooms around the country it was important to become a member of The Irish Federation of Musicians, so they were contacted and a date set for us to take the test. First we were questioned individually in the theory of music and then as a band, we performed a couple of numbers. Having passed the test and gained admittance to the federation we turned our attention to image. Like other Showbands, we appeared clean-shaven, well groomed and wearing white shirt, bow tie and a blazer, complete with pocket crest."

Back left to right: Dermot Ryan (sax), Sean Kinsella (drums), Tony Lynch (guitar), Myles Mooney (guitar), and Arthur O'Neill (sax) Front: Emmet Wynne (trumpet), Johnny Brown (bass), and Pat Lynch (vocals) Page 28 Mature Living October 2014

The band was initially managed by Nobby O'Reilly and for the first few years, like most of the showbands in the early 1960's the band continued to do their "day jobs" and it wasn't until late in 1964 that they took the major step of turning professional. They also changed managers and were then managed by Don Kinsella. A 1964 press release reported that Don was originally the trumpeter/vocalist with the band.

Archie was the first to leave the band when he was selected as the official photographer to accompany the first Irish United Nations troops to serve overseas since the foundation of the state. Details of his role and of the members of the 32nd. and 33rd. Battalions, in what was an historic and groundbreaking operation for the Irish Defence Forces are recorded in his book, The Congo-1960. Myles Mooney was also sent to the Congo and was "replaced" by Liam Hurley, who would turn out to be a significant addition to the band as he wrote songs and handled the band's musical arrangements. However, Myles did return to the band a short time later. Archie was initially replaced by Phil O'Reilly.

1965 was a big year for the band as early on the appeared on RTE's Showband Show, but around the same time, lost their lead singer, Joe Fitzmaurice who went to the Altonaires. However, his replacement would be Pat Lynch (brother of the Dixie's Steve Lynch), who came from the recently split Clipper Carlton. In 1964 the Clippers split into the Santa Fe Showband and the Clippers. Pat would guide the Airchords' fortunes until their breakup.

The band released its first single, A Knock On the Door on March 29, 1965 and Pat made his debut with the band a few weeks later on Easter Sunday, 1965.

Although the record failed to make an impact on the charts, it established the Airchords as a bona fide player on the growing Irish ballroom circuit after being part time for the first five years.

The band followed with two more singles, Are You Sincere and Worry, once again neither of which made the charts, but their fortunes would soon change. In July, 1966, Danny Ellis would leave the band to join with Jim Farley's Band and he would be replaced by Dermot Ryan. Later that year, the band jumped on the growing showband ballad craze and released The Leaving of Liverpool which would crack the Irish top ten rising to number six, the band's first chart hit.

A few months later, around March, 1967, the band would be in the charts again when The Irish Soldier reached number three.

However, at the same time, the band lost one of its musical mainstays when Liam Hurley left to follow Danny Ellis into Jim Farley's band. He was replaced on guitar by Pat's brother Tony Lynch, who had come from the Earl Gill's Hoedowners.

An article in the Sligo Champion's Showband column in November, 1967 reported that Aidan Hand was now the band's manager. It also told a lengthy tale of their new single being called The Chickens Round the Garden. However, we can find no record of this ever being released as at the same time, late 1967, the band had its first number one hit, Treat Me Daughter Kindly.

In early 1969, Ernie Berkenheier, one of only three original members left would leave the band and was replaced by bassist Johnny Brown, who had been with the beat group Magazine and would soon go one to bands like The Billy Brown Band and the Real McCoy. A little later in the year another founding member of the band, Arthur O'Neill left, along with four other members in October, 1969 to form the core of a new band being put together to back former Colours vocalist Brian "Red" Hurley, brother of Liam. Dermot Ryan (sax), Arthur O'Neill (sax), Emmet Wynne (trumpet) and Myles Mooney (guitar) and Johnny Browne (bass) left to join the newly formed Wheels.

At this point, the only original member of the band left was drummer Sean Kinsella.

The band needed to be rebuilt in a hurry and they brought in Norman Clifford, Dave Curran, Arthur Madden and Billy Hopkins.

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

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

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

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

Letter to the Editor

Hi Seamus, Congrats. on another wonderful issue of MATURE LIVING - a great magazine.

Under the photo of THE HOEDOWNERS in the August issue, you have "unknown" for the guitarist in the centre - well I can tell you his name is TONY LYNCH from Cork - a brother of Pat Lynch of Pat Lynch & the Airchords. Tony played lead guitar. Pat sang at my wedding in 1970 and we are friends to this day. He just passed the 80 mark, lives in Cork and is hale and hearty!

Kindest regards, Joe Kelly. Sligo Choral Festival

Top singles - 1969

Left to right: Joe Fitzmaurice (vocals), Arthur O'Neill (sax), Paddy O'Meara (sax), Myles Mooney (guitar-holding sax), Archie Raeside (trumpet), Liam Hurley (guitar), Ernie Berkenheier (RIP - bass) and Sean Kinsella (drums). Liam is Brian "Red" Hurley's brother and went on to join Wheels and the Nevada.

As with many bands of the era, major shakeups in the lineup usually signaled the beginning of the end of the band and so it was for the Airchords.

Now down to a seven piece, the band, mainly of the strength of Pat Lynch's vocals, continued to have popular records, despite the turmoil it faced in its lineup.

Tony Lynch left the band in December, 1970 and emigrated (he would eventually return to Ireland). He was replaced by Fergie Burke. Just three months later, in March, 1971 Fergie was to feature on the band's next record, When We Were Young.

Just before the band went into the recording studios, Dave, Arthur and Billy took up an offer to form a new band backing Paddy Day and they became the core of the Wanderin Stars. Norman Clifford also left

to join Ian Corrigan's band.

The split could not have come at a worse time as Pat knew the upcoming record was a hit. In an act of desperation, the entire lineup of the Regal Showband was hired In August of 1971, Fergie Burke, Arthur Madden and Billy Hopkins left the band and joined the revamped Royal Showband after the departure of Brendan Bowyer and Tom Dunphy to start the Big 8. It is unclear whether this was the "end" of the Airchords or whether they kept going for another year or so. We are doing our best to find out and if you know any more, please let us know.

By the early seventies (we're not sure of the precise date), the Airchords were no more and they amalgamated with the Regal Showband to form the new Treetops. Pat would quit the scene in September 1973.

1. Sean Dunphy & Hoedowners - The Lonely Woods of Upton (Dolphin) 2. Joe Dolan - Make Me An Island (Pye) 3. Brendan O'Brien & Dixies - The Joys of Love (honey) 4. Real McCoy - Quick Joey Small (Target) 5. Joe Dolan - Teresa (Pye) 6. Sean Dunphy & Hoedowners - When the Fields Are White With Daisies (Dolphin) 7. Margo & Keynotes - The Road By the River (Target) 8. Muriel Day & Lindsays - Wages of Love (Dolphin) 9. Real McCoy - Many the Memories (Target) 10. Sands - Bubblegum Music (Tribune) 11. Sean Fagan - My Lovely Rose and You (Tribune) 12. Dreams - Casatchock (Dolphin) 13. Larry Cunningham - Pretty Little Girl From Omagh 14. Times - Hitching To Miami (Dolphin) 15. Times - Dozey (Dolphin) 16. Freshmen - Just To See You Smile (Target) 17. Real McCoy - Round the Gum Tree (Target) 18. John McNally - Mary In the Morning (Cbs) 19. Two's Company - Eileen McManus (Honey) 20. Roly Daniels - Angel She Was Love (CBS) 21. Joe McCarthy & Dixies - All Together Now (Honey) 22. Dickie Rock & Miami - Emily (United Artists) 23. Mike Feeney & Virginians - Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder (Dolphin) 24. Tommy Drennan & Monarchs - Come Home Rolling Stone (Columbia) 25. Michael O'Callaghan, Eleanor Nodwell & Big Band Cuando Sali de Cuba (Honey) 26. Red Hurley & Colours - Poor Man's Roses (Target) 27. Smokey Mountain Ramblers - The Little Folk (Dolphin) 28. Tommy Drennan & Monarchs - Where Were You (Columbia) 29. Emeralds - The Golden Jubilee (Release) 30. Martin Codd & Herdsmen - Whisper Your Mother's Page 29 Mature Living October 2014

Feature

Staying Active After 50

H

ealth and sports scientists have demonstrated on many occasions that staying active and healthy when 50-plus can greatly extend your lifespan and more importantly, improve the quality of your life.

It is normal for people to become less active as they pass through middle age. Many people struggle to keep up with the sports that they enjoyed throughout their youth and early middle age and do not replace these activities with anything new. As your tendons and muscles get tighter, it becomes harder to get back into exercise. However, gentle exercise has many health benefits and even just walking every day will increase cardiovascular fitness, improve strength and stability and boost health in general.

Health benefits of exercise There are many individual health benefits of exercising throughout life. The general health benefits are improved physical fitness, greater internal fitness and extended life expectancy.

One of the biggest killers of people over the age of 75 is falling; it causes more deaths per year in America than vehicle accidents. A serious fall can often cause broken bones and internal bleeding from which a person never recovers. Falls are far more common in people who are inactive and less fit. Staying active maintains stability and flexibility, which are needed to prevent falling. Reflexes are also dulled by inactivity and this increases the chances of stumbling and falling.

Exercise also helps to reduce the

risk of developing diabetes, coronary heart disease, cancer and strokes. Leading a sedentary life is extremely unhealthy and, as you grow older, tends to lead to weight gain. For many people, gaining weight can become a huge problem that leads to reduced mobility and this can result in isolation, which in turn causes mental health problems.

Loneliness and depression in old age is a mostly ignored problem that often has catastrophic consequences. Any form of lowimpact exercise is good for people in their 50s. Here’s a look at some of the best options.

Walking Walking is possibly the best exercise and, while a short walk is not difficult, longer country walks and hill climbing can be a

challenge at any age and provide an excellent workout that is also free.

Cycling Cycling is also a good option because it is low impact and can be done outdoors for most of the year if you have proper clothing.

Many cycle clubs cater for the older cyclist and one of the big benefits of joining a club is the social aspect of cycling. Often you see people cycling together and these are usually club members In January 2014, Time magazine covered the story of 102-year-old Robert Marchand who cycled 16.7 miles in one hour, setting a new world record for a cyclist over 100 years of age. This is proof that you are never too old to cycle.

Swimming Swimming is another very popular choice. Swimming works the whole body, not just the legs, and is zero impact. The only risk with swimming is the possible overexertion of the muscles in the upper back with some strokes, but if you take it easy and not try to be the next Michael Phelps you will be fine.

Tai chi Tai chi has been shown to benefit health in older people. Tai chi is a gentle form of exercise that is based on the Chinese soft martial art of Tai Chi Chuan. It improves strength and balance as well as providing some internal health benefits.

Weight training One form of exercise that has

Page 30 Mature Living October 2014

been shown to greatly improve health is weight training. Not only does weight training improve strength and stability better than any other exercise, research has shown that building muscle helps to prevent Type II diabetes.

Weight training is also a lowimpact exercise and, if you lift with good form, meaning in a standard way, there is very little risk of injury. Whatever form of exercise you chose to do it is important to dress appropriately.

Loose clothing with supportive underwear is recommended for all ages and, for added safety, it is important to wear men’s or women’s compression socks to improve circulation and reduce the risk of blood clotting.

Getting started Getting started is really easy. You first need to decide if you are going to exercise privately or join a club. Exercising at home, or from your home, has many advantages. The biggest benefit for most people is that it is free and you can do it when you want.

However, studies have shown that exercising with other people helps to keep you motivated and leads to faster fitness results.

Groups often have a social aspect that can really make exercising more fun.

If you make exercise a social event it becomes more enjoyable and you soon stop noticing that it is exercise.

Arrange country walks at weekends with family and friends: this will encourage others to get active too and it provides an opportunity for some social time.

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!

This event is the ideal place for industry enthusiasts to network and showcase their products to their target market.

To Book a Stand call Seamus on 085-2498067

House and Home

Insulate your home D

id you know that there are different ways to insulate the exterior walls of your home? The first step is to see how the building was built: Are the walls made with cavity blocks, or is there two walls built side by side with a cavity between them.

The latter is referred to as cavity wall.

Cavity Block Structure If your home has cavity block structure then there are two main options for insulating your walls.

The first is Internal Warmboard Insulation. Certified Tradesmen fix an insulating board to the inside of the external walls of the building. An example of this would be a house built in the 50′s, with no external wall insulation.

To meet current ‘Part L’ Building Regulations, you would need to

add 92.5mm of Internal Wall Insulation. If there was 50mm of insulation already on the wall, you would only need to add 42.5mm top-up. By choosing contractors registered with SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland), home owners can avail of the Better Energy Home Scheme, which provides substantial grants towards the cost of works. One major advantage of warmboard insulation is that you are no longer heating the walls of the property.

There are various types of internal warmboard, such as Kingspan Kooltherm and EasyBoard. The second method of insulating Cavity Block Structures is External Wall Insulation, also known as an External Wrap. In this case, the contractor fixes dense insulation panels to the exterior of a building using a bonding agent and mechanical fixings. On top of this there is a reinforcing mortar layer with glass fibre mesh and a primer layer and a decorative render finish that is available in many different colours.

Cavity Wall Structure If a building’s walls are constructed using an outer leaf solid block, a cavity (normally 100mm) and an inner leaf solid block, then it is known as a Cavity Wall Structure.

There is an additional retrofit insulation method in this case known as Cavity Wall Pumped Insulation. A series of small holes are drilled in the structure and a bonded bead is pumped into the wall. The advantages of this method is that there is minimal disruption to the interior/exterior of the building.

Roof Insulation An un-insulated or poorly

insulated roof costs you money and harms the environment.

There is now grant aid available through the SEAI Better Energy Homes scheme to help you improve your home using roof insulation.

Up to 30% of the heat produced in your home may be escaping if your roof is uninsulated. Ceiling level roof insulation is generally the most cost effective of any energy efficiency upgrade made to a house and often does not come with a large price tag when the potential savings are considered.

Even if you already have insulation in your roof, you may still be losing heat if it is damaged, less than is necessary or incorrectly installed.

For example if you have a thin or worn layer of insulation it would be beneficial to replace it or improve its performance by adding another layer.

Effectiveness of Insulation The effectiveness of an insulating material is measured using a 'Uvalue'.

A U-value is a measure of how much heat is conducted through a material.

Insulation installed correctly will have a low U-value as it will allow only small amounts of heat to pass through, thereby keeping your home warm.

Homeowners availing of attic insulation grants under the Better Energy Homes scheme should aim to achieve a U-value of 0.13 W/m2K or better (i.e. lower). It is vital that you ask the installer that the price quoted for will achieve the required U-value, or the best U-value that can be achieved in your circumstances.

BEAT THE METER! Want to avoid Water Charges??

Mountain Rain Have Water your own Stream, River or Storage Well Lake At Waterteck we Provide Filtration Systems which give you a Superior Quality Water Supply from any of the above sources.

Please Note: Your water supply will also be free of the Unwanted Chemicals usually associated with mains water supplies

OTHER SERVICES INCLUDE • Water Analysis • Water Filtration • Water Softening • Well Drilling • Pump Supplied and Fitted • Rain Water Collection & Purification • Sewage Treatment Systems

In Business Over 30 Years

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

Home Security

Adopt a burglar's way of thinking When you're thinking about how to make your home burglar-proof, you have to think like an opportunist thief, because a burglar will look for the tell-tale signs of weaknesses in your home. remember where everything was before the burglary, but it also helps you to prove to your insurance company that certain items were in your house.

A key tactic in burglary prevention is avoidance and not just alarming your property. For example, chain up your wheelie bin to a fence away from your house. A burglar will stand on a wheelie bin to get into the first floor of your house. Furthermore, a wheelie bin is like a filing cabinet, so shred all your documents before you throw them away.

Join your local Neighbourhood Watch, or display a sticker saying that you do.

This demonstrates to the thief that you are aware of the risk of being a victim of burglary and he'll most probably decide to move on.

Having two locks on your front door is really important and make sure your windows have window locks that are visible from the outside looking-in. This will make your house seem like too much hard work to a burglar.

S

tart with the front of your house. If your gate is open or broken, an opportunist will see it as a weakness.

It's an invitation. Always close your gate.

If it's broken – fix it. And if you don't have one, get one. It's the first psychological barrier to keeping a burglar away.

If you have just one cylinder lock on your door, a burglar knows that he can get into your home no matter what. If you have two locks on your door and your next door neighbour only has one, the burglar will very likely go next door. He's not going to make more work for himself.

Avoid ‘Beware of the dog' signs. They are a sure indicator that you don't have an alarm in your property. A thief will also think that you probably leave your back door open to let the dog into the garden.

The same goes for an ‘I love cats' sign, or something similar. Pet owners often don't have an alarm.

If the front of your house looks weak to an opportunist burglar, he can guarantee that the back of your house will be even weaker. As soon as a thief can get around to the back of your home, he knows he's probably safe. As soon as a burglar is in your house, whether he got in from the front or back, he'll go to the front door with either a glass bottle or a broom. The thief will balance the bottle on the door handle. If the owner comes home, the bottle will fall off the handle and smash before they get inside. This gives the thief a warning sign and time to escape.

Or he'll jam the door shut with a broom.

Again, this will give the intruder a sign and time to escape if the owner fails to get into their house easily.

Did you know...?

One of the first things a burglar will look for is your calendar. This tells them when you will be out of the house, so they can plan their next visit.

Humans are creatures of habit. They inevitably keep their house and car keys

near the front door or in their handbag; a handbag will nearly always be left in the kitchen. Once a burglar is in your house, he'll look for keys first. Then he'll be looking to find out what your habits are.

Your calendar will be very useful. Again, we humans are predictable and almost always have a calendar hanging in the kitchen. The thief will look for key dates – when you will be on holiday, when you have a dentist appointment – any clues about when you're scheduled to be out of the house.

The next thing on a burglar's list is to look for small items – non-bulky valuables that can be taken straight away. This might include jewellery, credit cards, bank statements and spare car keys. The thief will make a note of all the bulkier valuable items in your house – he'll be planning to come back again to get these when he knows you'll be out.

Now the burglar knows you. He knows what kind of person you are from the items in your house and he has your bank details to clone later. If the burglar has taken a spare set of keys to get into your house, he'll normally trash it before leaving. When a homeowner returns to a messy house, they have to go through everything to see what's missing. They'll normally be concerned about expensive jewellery, antiques and items of sentimental value. Keys are one of the last things people think of and so often don't realise they're missing. So when a burglar returns to finish the job, it'll normally be within 7 to 10 days of the first burglary and the locks have not been changed.

How can you prevent yourself from being the victim of a burglary?

Here are some top tips: One of the best things you can do is to film every room of your house in detail with a video camera, or take lots of photos. Not only does this help you to

Page 34 Mature Living October 2014

Fix broken garden gates.

Put a wire basket on the inside of your letter box. There's still space for letters to come through the door, but it prevents burglars from fishing for keys through the letterbox – thieves know that keys are

often left on a table next to the front door. Don't keep a calendar in your house – it tells a thief everything about you. Put a blind in the kitchen and in other rooms so that people can't see in. A thief can learn a lot about you before they even enter your house just by looking through the windows.

Keep suitcases and bags in the loft, or with their handles tied together.

Otherwise a thief will use those very bags to transport items out of your house.

When parking your car, turn the wheel towards the curb rather than keeping the wheels parallel. It sounds so simple, but this makes your car alien to the opportunist thief because everyone parks their cars with the wheels straight. Those turned wheels means it will take a thief a few more seconds to steal your car. Every second counts and they don't want to take that extra risk of getting caught.

Keep windows and doors shut and locked, even when you are at home. A thief will burgle your property even when someone is inside, for example, when they see a bathroom light go on. Use an alarm if you have one.

Don't make it obvious if you are a petowner. ‘Beware of the dog' often means ‘I don't have a house alarm' or ‘my back door is open' in burglar language!

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Home Security

Cube Fire & Security

C

ube Fire & Security Systems Ltd. is one of the leading providers of electronic security solutions in the West. We provide the solutions you need to protect your premises. We will help you assess your security risks and work with you to develop a solution tailored to meet your requirements however straightforward or complex, no matter how small or large your project.

Our experience, expertise and training have resulted in a service which is professional, proactive and customer orientated. Our dedication to providing

a quality service has resulted in Cube having a client list who are market leaders in their respective industries.

We use only the highest quality products and cater for all customers ranging from residential to full commercial and industrial installations.

Our Fire Technology Division specializes in both fire protection, installation and service of fire alarms from the very small to the larger addressable type.

We are fully insured, NSAI approved and hold a PSA License.

Contact us today for more information on 096 79977

Cube Fire & Security specialize in the design, installation and maintenance of Intruder Alarm and Fire Alarm Systems, CCTV, Access Control, Safe supply & installations and other security services and products tailored to your specific requirements.

We are fully certified and licensed by the Private Security Authority and we are audited by the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) for compliance with Alarm Systems, CCTV and Access Control Systems.

Total customer satisfaction is one of the most important strengths for this company and the management and staff of Cube Fire & Security are always on hand to meet all our customers’ needs..

Wireless Alarm Systems

Ideal for residential and small commercial applications. With integrated key pad, communicator, and siren, installation will be quick and easy.

Wireless Panic Buttons Available

Rathkip, Ballina, Co Mayo • Tel: 096-79977 Email: info@cubefireandsecurity.ie

www.cubefireandsecurity.ie

Extend your home and summer with one of our conservatories

Suitable for most bungalows

design features • 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

WESTERN WINDOWS & GLASS

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

5-7843837

1850 639 639

Home Security / House and Home

ORTH WEST EST NORTH PROTECTION ROTECTION DOGS OGS

Pups and Trained Dogs For Sale

SERVICES AVAILABLE

North West Windows

PROP. KEVIN BURNS • BELCOO, CO. FERMANAGH

MAN & DOG SECURITY SERVICE PERSONAL PROTECTION PROPERTY PROTECTION

085 784 3837

TRAINED DOGS AVAILABLE FOR SALE: • Family Protection Dogs Pups also • Personal Protection Dogs • Drugs and Detection Dogs Available • Yard Dogs

Parents can be seen

• IKC Registered • Microchipped • Vet Checked • Flea'd, Wormed & Vaccinated • 7 Generation Certificate

Ballina, Co. Mayo

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

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

CPI Spray Foam Insulation

SPECIAL OFFER

11’ 3 Door Wardrobe From Only €885 Fully Fitted Instant phone or in home quotations given

Call Micahel on 087-6016497 Website: www.firstchoicewardrobes.ie

Don't settle for anything else.

Insulate this winter and save money.

DONT LEAVE IT TOO LATE TO INSULATE. Contact us now and we will have a trained contractor call to your home for a Free Quote and advice on choosing spray foam insulation.

GRANTS STILL AVAILABLE • Powerwall External Insulation Contractor - Grants up to €3600.00 • Cavity Wall / Attic Insulation BER Grants up to €500.00 • Extensions, New Buildings, Roof, Attic Conversions, etc We use eZero ­ The new genera"on of Insula"on

Call Kieran on 087-834-3755 • homesinsulation@yahoo.ie

www.holmesinsulation.com

Bed and Breakfast with a difference"

Marjorie’s Kitchen offers premium specialised cooking courses to everyone, and we mean everyone. This is not a master class for nouvelle cuisine, but rather a professional friendly environment in which to learn and have fun doing so.

Looking for Bed & Breakfast with a difference?

Why not enjoy a break Brigown B&B with Mouthwatering homemade treats on arrival

The Quay, Ballina, Co. Mayo Tel: 096-22609 / Mob: 087 2304986 Email: marjorieskitchen@hotmail.com

Have you ever wanted to paint in oils?

Would you like to create your own piece of art?

Have you ever looked at a pain#ng and thought "I wish I could do that"?

Have you not tried it yet because you think you have to be ar#s#c or have some experience?

If you have answered YES to any of the above ques#ons then our classes could be for you.

Telephone 086-0884972

or email edowdican@hotmail.com

NO PARTNERS NEEDED! Annes Social Dancing Presents “Fun for fitness, Dancing” Sligo Road, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo Every Wednesday Night @ 8.30pm For More information Contact Anne on 087-6674561

DISCOVER FUN AND The Mature Living Over 50's Guide to Using all that Spare Time!

A

s we age we have more time on our hands, whether it is because our kids have flown the coup, our hectic lifestyle has changed or our health has forced us to tone down. But for whatever reason we may now need to fill a gap in our lives, and what better way than to take up a hobby.

Like going to lunch at a different venue once a week with the girls, boys or just a group of mates can be a great hobby.

So we have searched the internet to get collective information on a variety of hobbies that may interest our visitors and bring a sense of pride and fulfilment; some hobbies can earn money as well as bring pleasure.

To get started, try ringing your local Arts and Crafts Centre, or take a stroll through any Arts and Craft shop to see if anything motivates you; ask the assistant if they hold any weekly craft classes or if they know of any meetings within your locality that do.

You might like to SHARE YOUR HOBBIES and interests as they just might inspire another person to get involved in a new hobby.

Travel Ireland Travelling within Ireland can be the most rewarding time in your life. You will find thousands of places to stay and enjoy, tour to go on museums to visit you will learn about our history and local heritage, Wow! A truly wonderful place Ireland Puzzles and Jigsaws Puzzlers enjoy hours of mental stimulation and fun completing Crosswords and Brain Puzzles. There are plenty of puzzle books at the local newsagent however there are now also a few sites online.

Jigsaws are a great hobby as all that is needed is a spare table and an eye for detail and once they are finished you

Commons Clay Café

Paint Your Own Pottery Studio & Restaurant

Express your creative side, spend quality time with friends and family, and create a unique item for themselves or for gifts. Pottery Painting is available 7 days a week on a drop-in basis.

www.claycafe.ie • Phone: 094 937 3370 E-mail: mary@claycafe.ie Lakeside Retail Park, Unit 22, Old Ballindine Road, Claremorris Co. Mayo

Niamh Moffatt

Fitness

Fitness Instructor and Personal Trainer

can always frame and give away as gifts.

Learn a new subject Search online for a college or a university course nearest to you. Many courses now are offered with a correspondance option and many seniors are studying everything from a new language, music and scince to philosophy right at home.

Are you bored with you exercise rou!ne? Do you want to lose weight, feel healthier, boost your energy or have you a special occasion that you want to shape up for?

Contact Niamh on: 087-6269999 niamhmoffa$itness@hotmail.com www.niamhmoffa$itness.com

ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK, GOGGLE PLUS OR LINKEDIN? DO YOU HAVE SKYPE? ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK? - Social media is a wonderful thing and Facebook is the fastest growing and the very best social network online toady and you can be apart of that, is simple to set up, fun to use and can make friends. Facebook tells you that they help you connect and share with the people in your life.

DO YOU HAVE SKYPE? -If you have a computer with a reasonable amount of speed you can down load Skype for FREE and make computer totally FREE Skype calls to anyone of your friends (If they have Skype)for FREE - For those of you on a budget you can also buy very, very cheap phone calls.

Aidan Moran Golf Academy Classes: Sewing, Dressmaking, Patchwork, Quil!ng: Private classes in my studio or larger groups at a loca!on near you: registered tutor with the Galway Roscommon Educa!on Training Board.

Also Cra" and Baking ac!vi!es for the elderly or mentally disabled in Homes / Residences

Glann, Charlestown, Co. Mayo.

Phone: 086­8330264 Email: thecra"sfairy@hotmail.com www.fairyhillcra"s.com

Malo Duconte is a Yoga Teacher and a Therapist. Her teaching is adapted to the need of the individual or to the specificity of the group.

Groups & 1-to-1 classes on demands.

Be present, be now, this moment is your life!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Open: 11-9 Mon to Fri / 10-6 Sat & Sun Individual / Group Lessons Aidan Moran PGA Golf Professional

Contact: 086 33 08 999 maloyoga@gmail.com

Springfield, Castlebar Co.Mayo Phone: 086-8652172 Email: aidanmoranpga@gmail.com

Page 38 Mature Living October 2014

EXCITING HOBBIES

CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOPS

Series of 10 Creative Writing Workshops (weekly) in Strandhill Wednesday October 1st Wednesday December 3rd 2014 7pm - 10pm

They say every good man has a shed in the back yard!

Discover the genius within you Write with inspirational facilitators Safe, supportive environment Find your unique writing voice Share and celebrate your writing with others all at a beautiful seaside location

Looking for things to do in Sligo?

Plenty of upcoming workshops, contact Órfhlaith on: 087 279 9108 or email writersinksligo@gmail.com www.orfhlaithnichonaill.com/summerfest

Welcome to Seatrails! Try a guided walking tour or outdoor adventure and discovery tour with a qualified maritime archaeologist guide.

Visit fascinating ancient monuments, stunning land and seascapes and learn about the unique wilderness that surrounds you.

Seatrails guided walks and tours are for everyone-children, families, school and special interest groups and retired persons.

Social Dancing

Contact Auriel on info@seatrails.ie, phone 087 2405071 or consult the website

www.seatrails.ie

S

o you are a man, or your man has a little time on his hands, maybe retired or just looking for ways to remain in touch with other people or with life in general. You might be good with your hands or a tradesman of some kind in your past life?

Most people that read these pages are

Classes consist of Qigong and Tai Chi which is a short form of Wu style Tai Chi, it consists of 35 moves. As part of it's health benefits and lineage this so! moving form of Tai Chi cul"vates the mind & body with it's medita"ve quali"es.

7 Mail Coach Road, Sligo,

Glencross Home and Garden Workshop Get the most out of your garden Develop or learn new skills to help you around your home Learn something completely new!

Workshops covering vegetable and flower growing, general gardening skills, sewing and needle craft, cookery and baking. Whether you are a complete beginner or would like to further develop your skills, we can create the right workshop for you.

For further details please call Alis Glencross on 087-3819162

or visit our website www.glencrosshomeandgardenworkshop.com

looking for something to DO! Or find out what others are doing and of course there are lots of things to join, Rotary, Lions, Apex, clubs go play lawn bowls, but those things don't suit everyone.

If you don't know or you have not heard about The Men Shed Association read on This is a group or men that have gather together to promote a movement that was established in 2007. The idea came from the shed most men have in the backyard.

The Men's Shed has long been an irish tradition, almost a culture! A place for the man to go play work or just fiddle around or just have a beer with the boys.

"If you looked inside one you might see a number of men restoring furniture, perhaps restoring bicycles for a local school, maybe making bird traps or fixing lawn mowers or making bird tables. You might also see a few young men working with the older men learning new skills and maybe also learning something about life from the men they work with. You will see tea-bags, coffee cups and a comfortable area where men can sit and talk. You will probably also see an area where men can learn to cook for themselves or they can learn how to contact their families by computer.

Every Thursday and Sunday The Welcome Inn, Castlebar 10pm­12.30 with Live Bands Every Tuesday The Park Hotel, Kil"magh 10pm­12.30 with Live Bands Admission €8

For more details call: 086 638 8529

GB

Gerard Butler Do you wanna dance?

Learn to dance with Gerard Butler Group and Individual Classes starting in September • Jive Classes • Set Dancing • Dance Workshops • Sean Nos Dancing

Tel: 086-8986004

Email: info@gerardbutlerdance.com

www.gerardbutlerdance.com

CHANGE A

So many people have it in them to be a Samaritans volunteer.

To touch another person’s life when it really matters, by helping them directly, or by keeping our branches running, is a rare gift.

From the satisfaction of helping someone through a tough time, to learning new skills or meeting like-minded colleagues, you get a lot back.

LIFE: YOUR OWN

Different opportunities on offer A wide range of roles are all vital to keeping our service running.

Apart from listening to people, we're always looking for people with skills in finance, fundraising or IT, for example.

Samaritans Sligo, 3 The Mall, Sligo • Tel: 07191-42011 (Lo-call )1850 609090

Giggles Drama School We provide Adult drama classes and workshops for individuals and groups. We aim to provide a full range of courses to cover all interests and abilities. Drama is very popular in Mayo and Sligo and we provide regular classes in Kiltimagh, Swinford, Meelick and Curry Tel: 094-9384262 / Mob: 087 7929138 Email: info@giggles.ie

www.giggles.ie

Page 39 Mature Living October 2014

C

hristmas is always a special time to spend with those you love, but if there are children in your life, Lapland could make it one you’ll never forget. The magic of Christmas can be lost on some people when you get older. Father Christmas, Rudolph, chestnuts roasting on an open fire – they may seem like things reminiscent of a bygone era. There is no need, however, to leave it back in the dusty annals of yesterday, particularly when there are children or grandchildren to entertain.

As special as any Christmas can be, one spent in the spiritual home of the festive season can be more rewarding than you would believe. Lapland is the ultimate Christmas experience and a chance to get away from the seemingly paralysing winters of Ireland and spend a Christmas where snow, reindeers and elves exist harmoniously.

Is Lapland all it’s cracked up to be?

Where has your festive spirit gone? Of course, there will always be an element of Scrooge within us all, but the magic of Christmas exists in Lapland like no other place, no matter how much tinsel you have desecrated this year’s tree from

Argos with.

Lapland peers down at the rest of us from the top of the world.

Sitting around 150km north of the Arctic Circle, it is an experience like no other as you get to take in the stunning arctic landscape – from frosty lakes and stunning snowy scenery to the unique forestry.

L

apland, the magical winter wonderland settled on the northernmost edges of Europe is an exciting place to spend your winter holiday, see the Northern Lights, try some unique activities and meet Santa Claus.

Spanning the north of Finland, Sweden, Norway and the Kola Peninsula of Russia, this one-of-a-kind region within the Arctic Circle, with its 200 long days of winter, huge glittering expanses of snow, amazing wildlife and displays so pristine that take your breath away, is a magnificent winter destination and an adventure in itself.

Here are 10 things that will make your winter break in Lapland unforgettable: The Northern Lights Often regarded as the nature’s most spectacular show, the Northern Lights can be seen playing on the Arctic sky of Finnish Lapland between January and April. Unfortunately, the eerie phenomena cannot be predicted, but when the night is clear and dark, don’t forget to keep your wide eyes open! This year, the experience promises to be even more exciting as NASA’s experts have predicted that the winter season 2014/2015 will enjoy the brightest Aurora Borealis in the last 50 years.

Husky, Reindeer and Snowmobile Safaris Ever wondered how it feels to be pulled on a sled by huskies or reindeers while enjoy-

Lapland is a child’s ultimate Christmas experience. Up until a certain age, Christmas is a magic trick so incomprehensible it sets the imaginations on fire and in the very north of Finland, the authenticity could not be disputed.

The Christmas carols and stories come to life as you take a

ing the fairytale Laponian surroundings?

Well, a winter trip to the land of Santa will certainly endow you with the greatest husky safaris, the best reindeer sleigh rides and the most thrilling snowmobile jaunts.

Both husky and reindeer excursions are common activities in Lapland, and they are organized throughout the populated areas.

Whether opting for a short sprint or a journey over tens of kilometers accompanied by traditional lunch and hot beverages, a reindeer safari in Lapland will offer you the chance to soak up a bit of the peculiar local culture, and so will do the exhilarating husky expedition.

Santa Claus Village, Rovaniemi Although many would call it a tourist trap, one thing is for sure, you cannot leave Lapland without paying a visit to Santa Claus Village. After all, this is Santa’s only official home and a unique experience in its own right. It lies on the Arctic Circle, 8 km north of Rovaniemi, and can be reached through a 30-min bus ride from the city.

Highlights include the Santa Clause Post Office, where children are welcomed with tons of Christmas related items, and the official Santa Claus’ Office – the place where visitors can actually meet Santa. Another special attraction here is the white painted line that marks the Arctic Circle.

Additionally, the village plays host to a wonderful variety of restaurants, souvenir

ride on a reindeer sleigh, lead a group of rapid huskies and drive a Snowmobile in an astounding setting.

Most importantly, however, the one man every child wants to meet is there to take those special requests from the little ones (and big ones, if you’ve been good). Search for him as a

shops and stunning lit ice sculptures.

Santa Park, Rovaniemi Situated within a mere walking distance from Santa Claus Village, Santa Park is an underground amusement park and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rovaniemi. Guests at Santa Park will be delighted with all kinds of elf shows and workshops, entertaining sleigh rides, ice bar, stunning ice galleries, shopping, a special Christmas carousel, Mrs Claus’ famous kitchen and many more fascinating attractions and activities.

Yllas Ski Resort Home to the longest runs in Finland, Yllas is a popular ski destination spread across two villages – Akaslompolo and Yllasjarvi, and a paradise for both skiers and snowboarders. Tourists in search of dramatic alpine surroundings would probably be disappointed, but those looking for high-quality snowboarding, off-piste slopes, Telemark ski and plenty of fun in the snow, will be surprised by the great variety of opportunities available.

In addition to winter sports, Yllas ski resort offers a decent selection of bars, restaurants and accommodations, as well as various entertaining activities, such as reindeer and husky safaris, snowmobiling treks, horse riding, and even winter swim in an ice hole for the bravest visitors.

family and as a reward you get to have your own personal meeting with Santa Claus.

Lapland is a chance to make every child’s dream come true, and if you’re feeling young at heart, you might even make your own come true as well – you’re never too old after all, right?

Levin Lapinkyla Levin Lapinkyla is a traditional farm in Lapland, a great family-friendly attraction and an excellent base to explore the enchanting Finnish culture and traditions. Guests are greeted with excellent smoke sauna, reindeer rides and wonderful restaurants and cafes, where they can sample authentic Lapp delicacies in a charming traditional atmosphere.

The destination’s highlight, however, is the domestic animal farm with its lovely creatures: alpacas, reindeers, sheeps, goats, bunnies, gerbils, guinea pigs and cute birds.

Arktikum Beautifully located on the bank of River Ounasjoki, Arkticum is not only one of Rovaniemi’s main cultural spots, but also the 4th best travel attraction in Finland.

The attractive museum displays the history and culture of Finnish Lapland and the Arctic region, with comprehensive info about locals’ lifestyle, folklore and traditions from prehistoric times to the present-day.

Other attractions at the Arktikum Science Museum comprise the elegant Arktikum Café, the Arctic Centre Library and the delightful Arktikum souvenir shop.

The Ultimate Sauna Experience Often considered a landmark of Finland, the sauna has always been used for bathing

and relaxation in this part of the world.

But, while many countries have embraced and modernize this practice, for Finnish it has remained the same sacred custom deeply rooted in their culture.

According to Wikipedia, in Finland there are more saunas than personal vehicles, so fortunately, you can experience them anywhere: in the local homes and cottages, in hotels or in public places. For the ultimate sauna experience though, one should definitely try the one and only Yllas’ sauna

T

ime is yours to experience the amazing scenery and hospitality of the Scandinavian far north. The itinerary starts and ends the Norwegian town of Tromsø, easy to get to by air.

Wake up to beautiful views of Lule river in a ‘treehouse’ in Sweden, visit Finland’s Santa village, get to know Sami culture and the northern most tip in Norway, see the birdlife & fishing villages of the coast of Norway‚ all accompanied by the famous long Scandinavian summer nights. This is one we would like to do ourselves every year, go on..make us jealous! All over Scandinavia and northern Europe, some of the best roads in the world awaits you. Our roads are well signed and our drivers are calm and civilized. Road tolls are automatically put on your bill with the hire company. The very fact that getting your driver’s licence takes a significant investment in both time and effort, and not to mention that driving in snow and darkness for half the year certainly teaches you patience, should be enough to make anyone feel at ease driving in Scandinavia. When it comes to driving

gondola – an amazing 2h experience that allows you to admire the breathtaking snow-capped surroundings from a special gondola equipped with electric sauna.

Siida Museum Mainly focusing on the incredible Sami culture and the unique nature of Northern Lapland, SIIDA is undoubtedly one of the finest museums in Finland. It is located on Lake Inari, in the village with the same name, and comprises two institutions – the

and travel independently, most people you meet will speak English and be more than happy to assist you where they can.

Day 1: Tromsø to Kiruna Arrive in Tromsø to pick up your car and enjoy the first leg of this trip, a drive through the mountains of Norway to deep pine forests of Sweden. Have a break in Abisko, stretch your legs with a short walk in Abisko National Park before continuing to your destination, Kiruna. Accommodation Traditional hotel in Kiruna Day 2: Treehotel - a marvel to behold. The drive will take you deeper into Swedish pine forestskeep an eye out for elks and reindeer on your way to the famous Treehotel in Luleå. In this awardwinning hotel, enjoy the serenity of Nordic nights in one of the “treehouses”. The Treehotel is an award winning hotel in the middle of the forest, enjoy the serenity in one of the famous ‘tree houses’ penned by leading Scandinavian architects. All the rooms are suspended 4-6 metres off the ground with spectacular views of Lule River.

main exhibition hall, describing northern Lapland’s ecology by season, and the other one entirely dedicated to the fascinating Sami culture and history.

Additionally, SIIDA provides the visitors with various events, a gorgeous open-air museum (open in summer) and a versatile suite of temporary exhibitions.

Lainio Snow Village Settled in the middle of a magnificent scenery, nearly 200 km above the Arctic

Day 3: Head to Rovaniemi Departing the Treehotel, it’s time to hit the road again. The official home of Santa Claus and his village awaits you across the border to Finland. Rovaniemi is also a city offering a variety of restaurants and shopping.

Details 299 kilometres Day 4: Rovaniemi's Santa village Let the car rest and spend the day exploring Rovaniemi by foot, or take a boat tour on the Kemiand Ounasjoki rivers.

Or head out for a short drive, wonder at the marvellous scenery on top of the Ounasvaara fell, visit the Arctic Museum Arktikum or stop by at Santa Claus Village.

You can meet Santa Claus and cross the magical Arctic Circle every day at the Santa Claus Village in Lapland. Send friends and relatives greetings from the Santa Claus Main Post Office with the unique Arctic Circle postmark, shop in the numerous giftware stores and workshops and enjoy lifetime experiences with many different programmes!

Circle, it’s no wonder Lainio Snow Village offers visitors such an authentic Lappish experience. Built entirely of snow and ice, the village features a wonderful Ice hotel, a stylish ice bar and restaurant, stunningly lighted snow and ice sculptures, as well as all kinds of snow slides for the delight of children. All in all, this winter wonderland may cost you a bit, but it’s a one-in-a-lifetime experience. Therefore, even if you don’t afford the complete package, a stopover here is highly recommended.

Day 5: Rovaniemi to Karasjok Time to hop in the car again and start your journey to the far north. Today you will be crossing the border between Finland and Norway. This is a beautiful drive that takes you through numerous lakes and forests.

Today you will drive south to Karasjok, the home of the Sami Parliament. You have time to discover Karasjok, the birth place of the 50 Degrees North Co_Founder, Tietse Stelma.

Karasjok is a small town, home to lots of artisans and interesting folk.

Details 440 kilometres Day 6: Karasjok - the homeland of the Sami to Honningsvåg Karasjok, located in the heart of Norwegian Lapland is the birthplace of 50 Degrees North's director and the home of the Sami Parliament. It is a perfect place to experience the culture and history of the Sami people. The very late sunsets (in summer) and spectacular Autumn colours are a sight to behold.

Continue to North Cape, which at 71 degrees north is certainly as far as we can drive today.

Day 7: The North Cape Enjoy the Nordkap (the North Cape), often referred to as the northern most point of Europe. At 71 degrees north, it’s certainly as far as we can drive today!

The North Cape plateau rises 308 metres above the Barents Sea and has always been an important point of orientation for sailers in the north. The fishing villages, sea birds and a potential midnight hike to the tip of Knivskjellodden are all part of an unforgettable experience in the far north. 237 kilometres Details 237 kilometres Day 8: The North Cape to Tromsø After an early breakfast, it is time to leave Nordkapp and drive along the coast to Tromsø. This is one of the longest drives of your journey, but also the most spectacular one. The Norwegian coastline, famous for its beauty, will not disappoint. Upon arrival to Tromsø, it is time to drop-off your car and prepare for departure.

The above is just a sample itinerary and you can adapt it to suit individual tastes

Therapies

Cathy Cavanagh - Conversational Healer T

here are many aspects of life and living I can help you with; if you are feeling unfulfilled, depressed, unhappy, lacking confidence, disconnected, suffering physical or emotional trauma, have fertility issues or can't quite figure out what is troubling you. My process can work quickly for some people but it is a process and can take time.

From the moment a client starts to talk with me, my intuitive and spiritual radar is open and at work. This communication enables my purest self to initiate an authentic and effective facilitation for your healing process.

I am a facilitator of healing. I

facilitate for your own unique individual healing experience. Healing happens on all levels; psychological, emotional, mental, physical and spiritual. I facilitate in a profound, holistic yet practical way. It is a very deep personal and private experience. My process will be tailored for you. You will be guided in the direction of your truth.

My method combines my spiritual gifts with universally accepted coaching and mentoring techniques. Coaching is personal. Coaching creates a unique empowered relationship for change.

Change can lead to effective and transformational healing.

Coaching establishes the connection between you and I in a safe way and space. This relationship is built on trust, confidentiality, truth, openness and honesty, in a compassionate and nonjudgemental way. Listening is the gateway through which all coaching passes. Through my coaching model I emphasise the value of open listening, mutual respect, clarity and willingness

to engage with difficult emotional conversations.

The technique I use , Clean Language, is a questioning technique used especially for discovering, exploring and working with people’s own personal metaphors. The word ‘metaphor’ here refers to thinking or expressing something in terms of a different concept or image. For example if someone says; “It’s like….” or "It’s as if…” then the next thing I’ll hear is probably a metaphor. We use metaphor easily and naturally in everyday speech to communicate complex thoughts, feelings, emotions and ideas.

Clean language helps a client discover and develop symbols and metaphors without being influenced by the phrasing of a question. Metaphors are doors to deeper understanding – of self and others. Clean language provides the key for unlocking the metaphors.

Allow me to facilitate for you and share with you the truest extent of my natural authentic spiritual gifts and

abilities, helping you to find long term solutions to all of life’s challenges, issues and problems.

In next month's issue I will answer questions you have about my work and the process involved.

Email your questions to cathy@cathycavanagh.net Thanks and regards, Cathy.

"I’ve had an amazing healing session with Cathy recently and this was all done remotely, from the moment that Cathy started to channel healing energy.

I became uplifted and strong, this really works, I had a profound experience with it and I can’t thank you enough Cathy for what you’ve done for me and my family, keep up your wonderful work. I will continue to have distant healing with you whenever I feel drawn and in needed of this aspect of your healing ways." Gary – Wexford, Ireland © Cathy Cavanagh

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 Sligo - Carmel Clarke As seen on Irish and International TV

Aromatherapy • Massage • Womens’ Health 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.

Airport Road, Strandhill, Co. Sligo Telephone: 087-6323903

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 42 Mature Living October 2014

Travel on a Mystical Journey...

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

Available for House Parties & Corporate Events

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

Henry Schwab Healing

"tapping with EFT and using modern meridian and energy therapies is the way to go in therapy today.

I am again and again amazed how effective these therapies are compared with the typical psychotherapy/counselling . tapping seems to be so much faster and effective without going into the past in clearing all forms of anxiety, stress, anger, fears and phobias and seems even to work in eliminating allergies like hey fever( it did just that for myself!). to book an appointment or for any questions , please contact Henry at 071 96 62114 or send an e-mail to schwabhenry@gmail.com".

www.henryschwabhealing.com

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

Care and Support

The care and support system Local Authority can decide what level of eligibility for care they will provide as well as its charging policy).

Local authorities will also provide an up-to-date list of local providers and can signpost to services. Be prepared to answer questions about your care and support needs, as well as your finances.

Assessment of needs You should also be offered an assessment of your needs. This means that a social worker (or sometimes an occupational therapist or nurse) will ask you questions about what you find difficult on a daily basis.

This assessment will be used to work out what your levels of need are and what support can be provided.

A needs assessment must always lead to the production of an agreed care and support plan.

You should be provided with a copy of this plan.

W

hen you or someone you care about starts to have difficulty managing daily tasks at home and needs extra support and care, it can feel daunting and you might not know what help is available or how to arrange it. The care and support system is complex and can be confusing, with many organisations involved in assessment, arrangement and provision of care. The rules on how you pay for care and support can also be difficult to understand and it’s important to know what you are entitled to.

However, there is help and advice available and, with a bit of planning, it ‘is’ possible to find good care which helps your needs.

services, you can ask for cash payments so that you can arrange your own care.

You may also be entitled to the provision of equipment and adaptations to help make your home more suitable to meet your needs.

Where do I start?

Your first port of call should be your local authority- contact its social services department or contact centre.

Staff will be able to let you know about the local rules which operate in your area (every

Qualifying care needs Most Local Authorities provide care for people who are categorised as having ‘critical’ or ‘substantial’ levels of need.

These are the top two categories in the banding system (called Fair Access to Care Services) that is used by Local Authorities.

The bottom two categories are ‘moderate’ and ‘low’. Generally councils will not provide services for people whose needs fall into these lower categories. If you are in this position, you can still find services locally, but you will need to pay for these from your income or using savings.

Eligible needs If you have eligible needs the Local Authority has a legal duty to meet them. To meet your needs the council may allocate a personal budget for your care.

This means that you can choose to have services arranged on your behalf or a cash payment paid to you to arrange your own care. This is called a Direct Payment.

As part of your assessment you should receive appropriate advice about how your needs should be met.

Finances and how it affects charges for support Care arranged by a Local Authority is not usually free. Your Local Authority will therefore ask about your finances and income.

Paying for care and support at home If you own your own home and no one else lives in it when you move into a care home, the council is able to take into account the value of the property and use it to pay for care home fees.

Charges for care are complex, and you should seek more detailed advice from yout local authority It’s also very important to ensure that you get all of your benefits and entitlements. For example, there is a non means-tested benefit called Attendance Allowance which provides a weekly income to help meet additional costs which arise from a disability or difficulty with everyday activities.

What social care services are available?

The type of services available to help with care and support needs can include: help at home with shopping, laundry and cleaning intensive home care such as washing, dressing and preparing a meal 24-hour care in a care home or a housing with care scheme (also known as sheltered accommodation).

If you do qualify for local authority support, instead of receiving directly-funded and arranged

Page 43 Mature Living October 2014

Motoring

Monte Carlo on a budget! Š koda's new Citigo 'Monte Carlo' has arrived on Irish shores. The compact, wellequipped, special edition machine boasts sports seats, aluminium wheels, a dynamic exterior and interior design in attractive colours.

"The demand we have seen for the (larger) Fabia Monte Carlo has shown that our customers desire custom-designed cars with a sporty streak," said Raymond Leddy, Head of Marketing & Product at ŠKODA Ireland.

With prices starting from €12,995, the car is now available to order in any of the 26 Škoda dealerships nationwide.

Happy Birthday Citroen CX! C itroën unveiled the CX 2000 for the first time at the Paris Motor Show in 1974.

It quickly established a reputation for exceptional comfort, advanced ergonomics and impeccable road holding.

Designed by Robert Opron, the CX was a two-box saloon, measuring 4.63m in length.

It was the first saloon of its type in Citroën's history to be specified with a diesel engine.

With the CX, Citroën was able to compete in the European tourer market with an alternative to petrol engines.

One year after the 1973 oil crisis, Citroën was able to demonstrate its innovative capabilities with engines that would meet high standards in terms of driving pleasure and lower fuel consumption.

The aerodynamics of the CX played a key role in achieving

its impressive levels of fuel efficiency and the acronym CX in itself illustrated the vehicle's low drag coefficient – Cx being French for the aerodynamic coefficient Cd. An estate version came along in 1975, a 2400 GTi electronic injection sports version in 1977 – considered as the fastest French tourer of its time – and a Prestige version in 1978, which was 28cm longer than the original car.

CX inherited the constantheight, hydropneumatic suspension of the DS as well as the power-operated, self-centring steering system seen on the SM in 1970.

The same high standards of comfort were apparent in the subsequent innovations and provided for an improved driver experience.

For example, the C-matic torque converter did away with

the clutch pedal, freeing up space for greater driver comfort.

Also, the interior design placed particular emphasis on convenience, with a futuristic

The Honda CRV is tops The Honda CR-V is the world's bestselling SUV - so far in 2014.

The figures, provided by global automotive market consulting specialists, Focus2Move, show worldwide sales of the CR-V to the end of May totalled 286,685 units.

The results for 2014 to date follow on from 2013 and 2012, where the CR-V also took the annual title of World's Best-Selling SUV. The top 50 chart of the world's bestselling cars puts the CR-V at number 10 overall for the year, well above any other SUVs including the Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Santa Fe, Volkswagen Tiguan and the Nissan Qashqai.

Honda Ireland says the global popularity of the CR-V is mirrored by very strong demand from buyers in the Irish market.

Always a popular SUV with Irish drivers, the CR-V has been boosted in 2014 by the introduction of the 1.6 i-DTEC model, addressing the increasing demand for low emission diesel engines and the growing trend towards two-wheel drive SUVs. The success of the new model means Irish CR-V sales have increased by a phenomenal 220% this year as the CR-V climbs Ireland's SUV sales charts.

The CR-V 1.6 i-DTEC delivers performance (300Nm of torque and 120PS), low fuel economy (4.5L/100km 63mpg) and CO2 emissions of 119g/km for annual road tax of €200.

CR-V has great luggage space, too, with up to 1,648 litres.

Honda CR-V retails from €31,995.

Page 44 Mature Living October 2014

driving position, enabling the driver to access all the controls without having to take their hands off the steering wheel.

Further reflecting the innovations of the original car, the Cit-

roën CX was the first French car to be fitted with ABS brakes in 1985.

The CX was a huge market success, selling more than 1.2m units globally up to 1991.

New Jag engine The new, innovative Jaguar XE is designed around Jaguar's modular vehicle architecture.

Jaguar says XE is the only car in the class to use an aluminium-intensive monocoque, with lightweight aluminium accounting for 75% of the structure.

This milestone in body engineering is a product of Jaguar's world-leading expertise in high-volume production of aluminium vehicles.

It ensures that the Jaguar XE will combine outstanding design with benchmark levels of ride and handling -Jaguar says "it will be the true driver's car in the segment".

Lightweight construction is a core element of Jaguar's DNA, and the firm is at the cuttingedge of aluminium technology in the automotive industry.

The Jaguar XJ, XK and F-Type have all been developed using exceptionally stiff bonded and riveted aluminium structures: now the XE becomes the latest model to use this aerospaceinspired technology.

The weight reduction realised ensures that the XE is the most fuel-efficient Jaguar yet with fuel consumption and CO2 emissions on the NEDC combined cycle of over 75mpg and The world premiere of the new Jaguar XE was held in London on September 8.

Travel Technology

10 Pieces of Technology Seniors Should Embrace F

orget learning how to program the VCR—the technology seniors have their eyes on today includes mobile gadgets, wireless connectivity and digital devices. Is Grandma going gadget-crazy? Not quite yet. Yes, the number of older adults using the internet and related tech devices is increasing, with over half of seniors using the internet and owning cellphones, according to a 2013 survey by Pew Research. But there’s still a long way to go before we can consider our senior citizens to be fully tech savvy. The fact is, today’s technology can keep seniors engaged, connected, mentally active, and physically safe, making it increasingly important for our loved ones to keep in the high-tech loop. So what devices should seniors and their caregivers have their eye on?

Tablets and iPads From games that promote brain fitness to apps that track health information, a tablet can have a variety of positive impacts on seniors’ lives. Seniors can view photos, listen to music, read, learn languages—plus the devices are lightweight, their touch screens are easy to use, and font sizes can be adjusted for easier reading.

Hearing aids Having to wear a bulky listening device is no longer an excuse for older adults to go without hearing aids. The continuing miniaturization of devices and the improvement of wireless transmission methods like Bluetooth has meant great strides in hear-

ing assistive technology. Hearing aids can be tiny, transparent, and nearly invisible—or even implanted inside the ear itself.

can view your loved ones in real time, and it’s available for smartphones, tablets, and regular computers.

Video and computer games Whether it’s World of Warcraft, Angry Birds, or the Nintendo Wii, video games have been shown to improve cognition, mental agility, and even physical health for seniors, with devices such as the Wii Fit. Not only that, video games can promote social interaction.

Health tracking software If your senior loved one has a computer or a mobile device, they should be aware of the wealth of software and apps available to help monitor their health, remind them of medications, and even track their nutritional needs, empowering them to take charge of their own wellness. It’s a branch of technology that’s invaluable for caregivers, too.

Skype Speaking of social interaction, one piece of software every senior should get familiar with is Skype. Communicating with family long-distance is a snap, you

Wireless internet Most of the technologies on this list wouldn’t be possible without wireless internet. If you want your senior parent to take full advantage of these devices, make sure their residence is internet-ready. Even nursing homes are using wireless internet technology to make it easier for residents and care providers to communicate quickly.

help perform critical safety functions like providing medication reminders and GPS locations.

Wireless home monitoring.

Home monitoring systems that employ sensor devices can be, literally, lifesavers for those seniors who live alone, either at home or in assisted living. They can detect emergencies such as falls, report unusual behavior, and even track vital signs—without intruding on privacy.

GPS. If you’ve got a senior loved one who is concerned about getting lost, or who has dementia and occasionally wanders, GPS technology can immediately

alert caregivers to their location if they leave their comfort zone.

There are separate GPS trackers that attach to the wrist or clothing, as well as smartphone GPS apps.

Home assistive devices.

Assistive technology in the home can go far in helping seniors remain independent—and safe. Besides home monitoring and GPS, there are devices such as LED lighting, medication dispensing appliances, photo-enhanced phone dialers, and stove shut-off systems, all of which can help seniors with mild cognitive and motor impairment.

Smartphones Mobile phones are becoming more senior-friendly, with models that have larger buttons and readouts, as well as photo speed dialing and voice recognition to make usage easier. Not only are cell phones crucial to helping seniors stay connected with friends and family, they may also

Page 45 Mature Living October 2014

Fitness

Outdoor Strength Workout: Fab For Autumn A

utumn is one of the best times to exercise outdoors.

It’s not too hot or too cold.

You can enjoy the weather while you get into shape.

Here are 5 easy exercises to tone you up; no equipment necessary.

Try doing them every other day.

For the first three start off with 8 reps and build up to 16. For the last 2 (isometric exercises) hold for 10 seconds and build up to 30 seconds. With all these exercises, remember to exhale on the exertion.

In a matter of a few weeks you should feel your body getting stronger and see it get shapelier.

and place hands shoulder width apart.

Keeping your body straight, lower yourself down to the surface and then push back upright again.

Muscles Worked: Chest, Triceps, and Shoulders

Warm-up by taking a 10-minute walk. By the tenth minute it should be brisk enough for you to just barely carry on a conversation.

Squats: Face surface, legs hip with apart. Hold on for balance.

Shift weight back into heels.

Keeping back straight, abs pulled in; gently bend at the knees and squat to about a 90-degree angle.

Hold for a moment, then, using just your leg muscles, return to an upright position. Muscles worked: Front of thigh (Quads), Back of thigh, (Hamstrings) Buttocks, Abs Wall Sit: Stand against surface for

Stop at a wall, a tree or a fence, and do these 5 exercises: two for your upper body and three for your lower.

Standing Push Ups:Stand facing a surface with legs hip width apart

Calf Raises: Face surface and hold on for balance. With feet together pointing straight ahead, slowly lift your body up on to your toes, while tightening calf, abs and buttocks muscles. Then slowly lower yourself back down again.

Muscles worked: calves, abs, and buttocks.

back support. Holding on as needed for balance, slide down to a sitting position against wall, knees at about a 90-degree angle.

Pull your abs in and hold for 10 to 30 seconds. Muscles worked:

Thighs and Abs Upper Back Squeeze: Stand with your back to the surface, feet shoulder width apart. Place hands behind you on surface. Straighten

your arms behind you and squeeze your shoulder blades together. Hold for 10 to 30 seconds.

Muscles worked: Back, Shoulders, Back of arms (Triceps)

After the Weight Loss: How to Transition into Everyday Life

S

o you’ve finally done it!

You’ve sweated, dieted, and exercised your way to a thinner, healthier, happier you.

You’re able to wear the clothes you want to and you feel fantastic on a level you long ago forgot was possible. The question at this point is: “Now what?”

Many people don’t find out

that the real battle is just beginning. Now that you’ve taken the weight off, you need to develop a firm strategy for keeping it off. Let’s take a closer look at how you can make sure those pounds and inches never bother you again.

Maintain Positive Eating Habits You’ve no doubt worked hard to

establish healthier eating habits.

Now the trick is maintaining your progress and that means keeping your diet consistent and sensible into the future. One of the best ways to do this is to stick to a schedule that stays stable no matter what else is going on in your life.

Make it a point to eat breakfast every day to help keep

your metabolism high and your appetite in check. It’s also important to plan meals ahead, especially when it comes to vacations, weekends, and so forth.

The better you plan and the more consistent your eating habits are, the more likely you’ll be able to maintain control over cravings and calorie intake.

Stay Active The key to staying trim, slim, and healthy is plenty of physical activity. In fact, studies show that people who have lost weight and successfully kept it off included between 60 and 90 minutes of physical activity as part of their daily routine most days of the week. In order to remain successful yourself, this is what you should be aiming for as well.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that you need to get all 60-90 minutes of activity out of the way all at once. You’ll be just as successful at keeping your weight down and staying healthy if you take several short walks a day or combine a short standard workout with light housework.

Some people find it useful to take up a new hobby they’ll

Page 46 Mature Living October 2014

enjoy that will keep them active, moving, and committed into the future.

Keep Yourself on Track If you’re like many people, the reason you gained weight in the first place was you stopped keeping track of your calorie intake versus your calorie expenditure.

Make sure things are different this time by making a commitment to monitor yourself properly from day one.

Keep a calorie journal where you log your food intake and your physical activity each day.

Also, weigh yourself regularly and keep records of fluctuations as well. This not only helps you stay on track, but it helps you identify trends as far as your weight goes. Many people also find it helpful to retain diet and nutritional aids as part of their daily routine, like meal replacement shakes from a trusted company like Rapid Loss.

At the end of the day, your success at maintaining your weight loss depends on your ability to keep yourself consistent. Explore the possibilities for yourself today!

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

Donegal Golden Breaks

Ballroom Dancing Holiday October 27th - 30th

4 Nights B&B + 4 Evening Meals Dance Tuition & Nightly Dancing to Live Bands

Price €239pps

Contact us for a 50+ Active Breaks Brochure Competitive Group Rates Available

SPECIAL OFFER 3B&B+2Dinners (2-course meals, valid sun-thur) €139pps €159 Single

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 packages available: November Country Music Weekend 14th -16th, Johnny Brady, Robert Mizzell, Michael English, Declan Nerney and Derek Ryan Lisdoonvarna Reunion Music Weekend 24th & 25th Oct Christmas & New Year Dancing Getaway 29th -31st Dec NB: For prices ,information on facilities and attractions visit www.Abbeyhoteldonegal.com

Active Retirement Breaks 2014 September & October

2 Nights B&B & 2 Dinners - €119pps 3 Nights B&B & 3 Dinners - €159pps 4 Nights B&B & 4 Dinners - €199pps Other entertainment packages available: November Country Music Weekend 14th -16th, Johnny Brady, Robert Mizzell, Michael English, Declan Nerney and Derek Ryan Lisdoonvarna Reunion Music Weekend 24th & 25th Oct Christmas & New Year Dancing Getaway 29th -31st Dec

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…

Donate your Hair here…

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

T

he Rapunzel Foundation is a charitable organization that works to improve the lives of those living with hair loss through fund raising as well as through hair raising. Its aim is to help people with hair loss through providing information, sharing stories and through the collection of pony tails for the manufacture of natural hair wigs. Hair is raised through the Rapunzel Foundation’s Ponytail campaign, where people commit to growing their hair with the view to their hair being sent to help make much needed wigs to improve the lives of those living with the hair loss. Collecting ponytails from donors helps to address the current global wig-hair shortage issue and allows us to alleviate the cost of wig purchase

for those who need help most.

For many ‘alopecians’ one of the best ways of dealing with alopecia is to wear a natural-looking wig made with the highest quality untreated human hair. This means not having to worry whether or not your colleagues or the people you meet as part of your daily life can tell if you are wearing a wig.

Wearing a natural-looking wig can help give back some of the self confidence often lost after developing alopecia. It allows people to enjoy their lives without worrying about their alopecia or their wig. The Rapunzel Foundation is working to boost the level of hair donation in Ireland.

We are doing this in order to increase the supply of the high quality untreated human hair

EST 1932

HAIR & BEAUTY SALON which is used in the manufacture of wigs for people with alopecia and long term hair loss.

Across Ireland the Foundation is creating an awareness of alopecia, a condition which can often have a social stigma attached to it due to a lack of understanding and information. The Rapunzel Foundation is financially assisting children and adults with alopecia who wish to wear a secure,

comfortable, natural-looking human hair wig: a wig which will allow the child to engage in all aspects of their childhood, from swimming, horse-riding, gymnastics to the everyday rough and tumble of being a kid with every day living. Kellys Hair and Beauty Salon can be contacted on 094-9022973. They are located at Castle street, Castlebar Co. Mayo.

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

K&C MULVANEY Ltd.

Dead & Worn out Animals Collection Service Daily Collection in all Areas Telephone: MULVANEYS at: Tel: 049-4338331 or 086-8551932 086-3827008

KSC PAVING & DECKING CENTRE, BALLINA • PATIO SLAB • BRICK PAVING • FENCING • COLOURED CHIPPING • DESIGN • SUPPLY •FIT

STONEWORKS

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

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

Call Martin on 086-0316833

RIED ARE YOU WOR E OR OM ABOUT YOUR H URITY? C PROPERTY’S SE ION

wedding ned for the If you have a and are concer ORRY, nd te at to t W even home, DON”T safety of your protect your property. to I am available ials Available. eant, Credent rg Se da ar G Retired a problem Travelling not included so • Pet care al 1-9641535 7-7741073 / 07 08 at e lli O ct Conta

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.

GARDEN MACHINERY

BOYLE, CO. ROSCOMMON

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

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

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

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

P R O T E CT OLLIE’S HOME , funeral or another

East Brothers

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

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

GRAVE CARE

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

G ARE YOU GOIN? ON HOLIDAY

FREE CONSULTATION IN YOUR HOME OR OUR SHOWROOMS.

McGowan's

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

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

Tel: 087-2116836

WHEELIE BIN SERVICE SKIP HIRE (All Sizes)

096-32500 www.loftusrecycling.com

Services Directory

The

Sun 23 Nov 12-6 Mon 24 Nov 10-6 See Page 31 for Full Details of the 2014 Mature Living Exhibition

Exhibition

This event is the ideal place for industry enthusiasts to network and showcase their products to their target market.

To Book a Stand call Seamus on 085-2498067

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

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

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

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

www.iwmotorhomes.ie

• 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

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

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.

Sell Your Clutter!

All Services Provided

Authorised Representative of Horizon Funeral Planning

Tel: 087-9385571 / 071-9621343

email: padraigburkefuneraldirectors@gmail.com

Doni Feeney Painting & Decorating

Take the Hassle out of selling your unwanted furniture bric-a-brac, White goods or just about anything

GET A FREE QUOTE CALL 086 2461115

No constant phone calls or strangers calling to your home just call us at

YE OLD CURIOSITY SHOP

where we will sell them for you on a commission basis (we only charge 18%)

Call us on 086 0203631 for details or call into our shop In Ballaghaderreen (Opposite The Post Office )

•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

HEADSTONES

SLIGO OIL SERVICES

M. Carney, Frenchpark

Headstones manufactured to your specifica!on Headstones cleaned and names added

085-1459-300

Professional Relationship Counselling Couples & Individuals Fees Based on Personal circumstances

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

accordballina@eircom.net

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

Ballina 096-21478

ALL KINDS OF STONEWORK AVAILABLE

Castlebar 094-9022214 accordcbar@eircom.net

Charlestown 094-9254944

Contact Michael on 086-8090641 094-9870409

accordcharlestown@eircom.net

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

Sligo Oil Services Professional OFTEC Boiler Service Can Save You Money We will optomise your Boiler for Maximum efficiency with reduced fuel costs, Carry out a full Carbon Monoxide audit to ensure Family Safety is a priority.

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

Drumkeerin Stone www.ap-motors.eu

Unit 2, Ardnaree, Ballina, Co. Mayo

• • • • • •

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

Ariel Dym 086-376-1953 • 086-8978395

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

PADRAIC CRYAN STONE WORK

CAMPERVAN CONVERTERS

Profesionaly converted campervans done with all light weight ply wood and full insula!on and top of the range appliances.

Can be converted to any style or any van.

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

Aistear Furniture

Makers of Bespoke Furniture & Quality Kitchens Mullagh, Killsallagh, Westport, Co. Mayo Tel: 098-23886 • Mobile: 087-6708306

info@aistearfurniture.com • www.aistearfurniture.com

• 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

AQUA WINDOW CLEANING Pure Filtered Water No Ladders Used Windows, Doors Front & Back All Frames from €20 Gutters, Downpipes, Fascias, Windows & Doors from €60 Also: Power Washing, Moss Removal and Fungus Removal

Call John: 087-6124715

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.

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.

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

FREE DATING* CLASSIFIED

seperated or divorced.

Replies in a stamped envelope to box number 1044 at the usual address.

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

Replies in a stamped envelope to box number 1023 at the usual address.

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

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

Far Finisklin Road, Sligo

Tel: 071­91 61924

sales@sligoglass.com • www.sligoglass.com

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.

"pride in our work"

54 yrs. Landscape gardener W.L.T.M. female professional, not married. In the northwest for friendship and craic. 6ft 1', blue eyes, hair salt & pepper. Looking for lady 40 -47yrs. Longtime relationship. Replies in a stamped envelope to box number 975 at

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.

GENTLEMAN WIDOWER

WRITE YOUR ADVERT HERE:

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

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

Email hello@firstclassdating.ie

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.

Irish owned & operated.

Page 55 Mature Living October 2014