58 minute read
FOCUS ON: TYRONE
FOCUS ON
Tyrone
Home to 2021 All-Ireland champions, Tyrone has even more than just amazing sport to offer. Reach for the stars on the Sperrin mountain range- one of the world’s best star-gazing locations or check out the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory in Davagh forest. For the adrenaline seekers, do not skip a visit to Todds Leap which offers zip-lining, zorbing and even blindfolded land rover driving! Or if you’d prefer a more relaxed afternoon with historical highlights visit Ulster American Folk Park or the Hill of The O’Neill at The Ranfurly House Arts and Visitor Centre. With spas, shopping and fishing opportunities, there is something for everyone in Tyrone!
And last but not least congratulations to Tyrone GAA on bringing Sam home!
Why I Love Tyrone Ulster Tatler speaks to Dawn Dobson of Dawn’s Flower Studio.
How did you celebrate Tyrone winning the All-Ireland final?
We celebrated the All-Ireland final and Tyrone winning whilst on a mini break in Carcassonne, France with a bottle of the only champagne they had in the hotel at the time ‘Taittinger’. What a sweet night.
How long have you lived/had your business in Tyrone?
I’ve lived here my whole life, I’ve travelled the world and there simply is no place like home. Our roots are here. My flower business is going on for two years now and we are loving providing this service to the local community and beyond from extended families from all over the globe providing modern flower arrangements for all their needs.
What do you like most about living in Tyrone?
Living in Tyrone is like being in the centre of the universe… just kidding! Northern Ireland. We are only an hour from anywhere by car. The locals are so friendly and would do anything to help and support the local community. It also has many beautiful country parks, lakes, rivers and stunning countryside steeped in history.
Does Tyrone have any hidden gems?
Our hidden gems would be Dungannon Park, Parkanaur Forest Park, Tomney’s in Moy, Peatlands Park, Brantry Lough, Drum Manor Forest Park, Gortin Glen Forest Park and the canal walk from Coalisland. The view from Castle hill on the hill of the O’Neills is a must on a clear day it’s all mapped out so you can see what’s in the distance.
Where do you like to dine and socialise in the local area?
Dining out for us would be Corrick House, The Portmor Restaurant Blackwatertown, The Brewer’s House Donaghmore and for cafes Seed or The Food Doc Dungannon.
Feargal Logan with Ellie Jane Quinn who is a Tyrone minor girls’ Ulster Finalist. Joint Tyrone Senior Football Manager Feargal Logan holds a question and answer session with senior footballers at St Joseph’s Grammar School. Feargal Logan with his children Marie Claire and Michael.
Feargal Logan with St Joseph’s pupils Eva Corr and Ben Hughes. Feargal Logan with All Ireland Minor Finalists Callum Lagan, Hugh J Cunningham, Ronan Molloy, Ronan Donnelly and Ben Hughes. Noah Grimes (missing from photograph).
ST. JOSEPH’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL DONAGHMORE LAUNCHES NEW ACADEMIC, SPORTING AND ARTS SCHOLARSHIPS
The celebrations are continuing across Tyrone after Feargal Logan and Brian Dooher guided the county to their fi rst Sam Maguire win since 2008. The sense of euphoria was palpable in St. Joseph’s Grammar School in Donaghmore when Joint Manager Feargal Logan visited the school to hold a question and answer session with the senior footballers.
Feargal is no stranger to St. Joseph’s Donaghmore having served for many years as a governor and having entrusted his three children’s education to the local grammar school’s care.
During his visit, Feargal recognised that St. Joseph’s is home to some of Tyrone’s most promising GAA talent. St. Joseph’s has seen signifi cant achievements on the sporting front in recent months; Six students from St. Joseph’s, Ronan Donnelly, Callum Lagan, Ronan Molloy, Ben Hughes, Noah Grimes and Hugh J. Cunningham were part of the Tyrone Boys’ Minor panel who reached the AllIreland Football fi nal. Despite narrowly being defeated in the fi nal, Feargal commended the young men on their performance and reinforced his belief that the St. Joseph’s sportsmen were destined for further success. Feargal was also updated on the latest developments with the school’s Cairde Brogán Foundation. The Foundation was established in memory of Sr Mary Brogán with the aim of providing fi nancial support and careers skills and opportunities for the pupils of St Joseph’s. Last week the Foundation launched two new fi nancial scholarships to promote academic, sporting and arts success among current and past pupils of the school.
The Cairde Brogán Foundation is currently seeking to recruit independent board members to the Foundation’s Board on a voluntary basis for a four year term. The Foundation welcomes expressions of interest from candidates who feel their professional and/ or academic background and experience could further the aims of the Foundation and represent the best interests of both current and past students. Further information can be obtained on the school’s website and expressions of interest may be submitted to info@stjosephs.donaghmore. ni.sch.uk.
Closing date for expressions of interest is Friday 29th October 2021 at 5pm.
Feargal Logan, former governor and parent of pupils in St Joseph’s Grammar School is updated on developments with the Cairde Brogán Foundation by Vice Principal Mrs A McGleenan, Principal Mrs G Donnelly and Vice Principal Mrs O McCourt. Principal of St Joseph’s Grammar School Mrs G Donnelly, and Fergal Logan.
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The Programme is evidenced-based, and the results are predictable and life-changing. I o er a free no-obligation consultation for anyone interested in booking their place. During the consultation, we can have a proper chat about their situation, what they want to get from it, and I can explain how everything works.
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LADIES AND CHILDRENS BOUTIQUE
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AWARD WINNING FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHER, TONY MOORE “MOMENT IN TIME” FOR OMAGH CRAFT COLLECTIVE’S MILESTONE DATE
Community focused and operated by volunteers, the Omagh Craft Collective Gift Shop has been open on Market Street, Omagh for 12 months. During that time, even during the lockdown after Christmas 2020, it displayed and sold the arts and crafts created by 45 individual heritage craftspeople; including two teenagers as part of our Young Entrepreneurs Programme. Indeed it became a destination window during those dark winter months when everything was closed and people were walking around the town. The collective has gone from strength to strength. Supported by the local community, by buying locally made products the collective in turn has been returning their support by providing start-up/micro-businesses with an affordable sales platform and (if requested) business advice. In the past 12 months there has been £1020 raised for Air Ambulance Northern Ireland.
TYRONE SPECIAL FOCUS ‘Let us review, before you renew’ YOUR Commercial Insurance Partners YOUR Commercial Insurance Partners ‘Let us review, before you renew ’ YOUR Commercial Insurance Partners
CONGRATULATIONS TO TYRONE GAA
EXPERIENCE AUTUMN IN OMAGH AND THE SPERRINS...
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With fresh air and stunning views of famous landscapes, we’ve got them by the bucket loads. From the instragammable Gortin Glen Lake walk that gives walkers superb views of the Sperrin landscape, to the newly upgraded Gortin Glen Forest Park which is a mass of wondrous woodland with stunning walks.
Take a step back in time at one of NI’s top visitor attractions, The Ulster American Folk Park. Whilst there, join in on the traditional Halloween celebrations at the Jack O’Lantern Festival for some spinetingling family fun which runs from 23 – 31 October.
Uncover the landscape’s rich heritage in detail at An Creagán Visitor Centre. Dive into the past by visiting the Abingdon Collection with its range of classic cars, motorcycles, memorabilia, military antiques and collectables. Experience the amazing Glen Park Estate, or head to Omagh Town Centre for an essential shopping spree through the cornucopia of independent shops and some fine dining in the many restaurants including the newly opened Copper Tap Bar & Restaurant!
For more information visit: exploreomaghsperrins.com
Gortin Lakes
Stunning scenery, fascinating history and heritage, fine food, unique shopping and first class accommodation, the list is endless! Get away from it all and book your well-deserved Autumn staycation in Omagh & the Sperrins – you won’t be disappointed!
Why I Love
Tyrone
Ulster Tatler speaks to Naill McAlinden, Thrive with Niall.
How did you celebrate Tyrone winning the All-Ireland final?
I watched the game at home, as my pregnant wife had been in hospital with COVID and was only home the week of the final. So, unfortunately, I decided to give my ticket away (I thought it wasn’t fair going to the match). The atmosphere in Coalisland for the homecoming was electric and there has been a real buzz in the county ever since. Hopefully we can do the back-to-back next year!
How long have you been living/doing business in Tyrone?
I have lived in Killyman, in Tyrone, all my life (I’m 30 years old), and worked in Dungannon for nearly 5 years. I also had two other offices in Coleraine and Enniskillen pre-COVID, and although I still occasionally work in these areas, I predominantly work in Dungannon and via zoom.
What do you like most about living in Tyrone?
Tyrone has plenty of countryside and parks which are great for escaping from the hustle and bustle of life and relaxing. I love to dine out and there are a few award-winning restaurants in my local area. Tyrone is also pretty central, and I live 5 mins from the motorway, so it’s handy when I have to travel around Northern Ireland. I think there are 48 GAA clubs in Tyrone so, as you can imagine, many local rivalries and derby games.
Does Tyrone have any hidden gems?
Tyrone is a big county - I couldn’t mention all of the hidden gems, and it’s difficult to narrow it down to one specifically. However, I think my favourite is the Argory. Maybe not the obvious one, though it’s a beautiful place and one that brings back great memories for me personally. I recently got married in April, and our wedding photos were at the Argory. Would highly recommend a visit.
Where do you like to dine and socialise in the local area?
As I mentioned previously, I love to dine. My favourite place is the Viscounts in Dungannon - the food and service are of the highest standard. I do like steak - Viscounts is the best in the business. I don’t socialise as much as I used to, but I do enjoy a pint. McAleers bar or Hagans Bar in Dungannon are my usual choices.
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Ulster Tatler’s Michaela Colgan speaks to Ronan Donnelly, Vice Captain of the Tyrone Minors who reached the All-Ireland Final and student at St Joseph’s Grammar School, Donaghmore.
What inspired you to begin playing football?
Over the years there has been many fantastic footballers in my family and it was this legacy that inspired me from a young age to want to play at a competitive level. I suppose you could say that football is in my DNA. My parents have always been a real encouragement and very supportive of me and I think this has sustained my interest.
What is your greatest achievement at club and county level?
In terms of county level, reaching the AllIreland minor football final in Croke Park was my greatest achievement. I enjoyed every minute of the journey and couldn’t have asked to experience it with anyone other than my amazing teammates. It was also a great honour to serve my county as joint Vice Captain in an All-Ireland minor final. It was heart breaking that we missed out on the title by one point but playing in Croke Park that day is something I will never forget. I am so grateful for the hard work and dedication of management- Gerard Donnelly, Gary Heatherington and all the backroom team- we wouldn’t have reached the final without their hard work. For my club, Donaghmore, my greatest achievement is reaching both minor grade one League and Championship finals. We recently won the league final. I want to thank the management in Donaghmore for supporting me from the age of 6 to be the player I am now. Without the support of people like Dan Grimes and Chris Faloon club football could not offer the opportunities it does to young people like me.
What is your greatest achievement with school football?
The school has achieved unbelievable success over the last number of years. Six students from my school made the panel for the minor All-Ireland final. I have been so lucky to achieve much success with the school team. Winning the McDevitt cup in Year 10 was a highlight. The majority of the school came out to support us and the atmosphere was just electric! St Joseph’s has played a massive role in developing me as a player. There is a real culture of GAA sports in the school and staff are so supportive. I have high hopes this year for our school team and feel we are one of the top contenders in the McLarnon cup. Every day after school, teachers are out coaching teams in their own time. That gives the students a real morale boost knowing that the teachers are behind you 100%. The Head of PE, Mr Gallagher, has coached me since Year 8 and has been an instrumental influence on my development as a player and person. Mr Kelly is also part of the management and is a great coach who wants to see us be the best we can be.
You have just entered your final year at St Joseph’s Grammar School in Donaghmore. What advice would 18 year old Ronan give to 11 year old Ronan?
I can’t over state how good a school St Joseph’s is. I can remember being so nervous on my first day. Looking back there was really no need. St Joseph’s nurtures every student as an individual. Over the years I have been supported so much- not just academically- but more importantly pastorally. I would tell 11-yearold Ronan to have trust and faith in all the teachers because they genuinely have your best interests at heart. I would tell him to enjoy every single minute because they really are the best days of your life. The mantra in our school is ‘be kind, be kind, be kind’. This has been drummed into us since the first day of Year 8. I would tell 11-year-old Ronan not only to be kind to others but also to be kind to himself. I would tell him to take every opportunity to get involved in extra- curricular activities in school because these develop you as a person. I would also tell him to work hard and make sure he balances his sport and hobbies with school work because one benefits the other. By keeping fit and healthy you are better able to focus on your school work. When Feargal Logan was asked by a student in our school last week how he prepares the team to deal with disappointment he gave an amazing answer. I would like to give Feargal’s advice to 11 year old me: see success in every failure and recognise what you have achieved rather than what you have not. Turn every negative experience into a learning point and use disappointments as a springboard to become a better version of yourself. Do not let the negativity drown out all the positives.let the negativity drown out all the positives.
CO.TYRONE LOTTERY WINNER
The National Lottery has revealed some of its most goosebump-worthy winning moments - the instant players call and find out that they’ve just won an extraordinary prize.
And as the nation listens and imagines what their reaction would be if they were to win a Euromillions jackpot, research reveals that almost a third of players would immediately turn on the waterworks if they won.
The newly released selection of lifechanging calls captures the moment when the players hear that yes, they have won big on The National Lottery. From whoops and cheers to the silence of utter disbelief, the calls give an exclusive look into the private moment winners’ dreams come true.
One Northern Ireland winner, Corey Skeffington (24) from Coalisland in County Tyrone, knows all about the emotions involved after winning £250,000 on a National Lottery Scratchcard one year ago.
“At first I didn’t say a word as I couldn’t believe what I was seeing,” recalls Corey.
“I just sat there staring at the Scratchcard and went as white as a sheet – so much so that my friends were actually asking me what was wrong.
“Then came the realisation stage and the cheering and jumping that comes with it before I called my aunt and my mum to break the news. That’s when the emotion got the better of me and I cried my eyes out as I told them what had happened.
2021
NI CENTENARY COMMEMORATIONS
ONE GIANT WEEKEND
One Giant Weekend in partnership with the LCC Group, was One Giant Celebration of fun which took place across three of the Council’s iconic venues from Friday 3 - Sunday 5 September.
· One Giant Evening · One Giant Concert · One Giant Picnic · Spinning Yarns
A celebration of Northern Irish music, culture, taste and traditions as part of the Council’s Northern Ireland centenary programme ‘A Country’s Centenary for Our Community.’
Fire juggler at One Giant Evening which took place at V36 as part of One Giant Weekend.
Musical Maestro Mr Barry Douglas performing at One Giant Concert at Theatre at The Mill.
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor WJ Webb MBE JP, Lady Maoyress Mrs Pat Webb pictured with Rev. Campbell Dixon MBE and Mrs Jacqui Dixon Chief Executive of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council at One Giant Concert at Theatre at The Mill.
Andrew and Elizabeth Edwards enjoying Spinning Yarns Festival at Mossley Mill. Celebrity Gardener Diarmuid Gavin launches Garden Show Ireland 2022 as part of One Giant Picnic at Antrim Castle Gardens.
Brian and Karen Kerr attending Carson and the Lady performance at Antrim Castle Gardens . Mayor Cllr. Billy Webb with dancers Ellie and Sienna Moffett from Bright Lights Dance Group at One Giant Picnic.
Hip-hop star Jordan Adtunji and his band rock the stage at V36 as part of One Giant Evening.
One Giant Picnic got the thumbs up from Amy Taylor and Charley Skelton which took place at Antrim Castle Gardens.
Mayor Cllr. Billy Webb and Lady Mayoress Mrs Pat Webb with Deputy Mayor Cllr Stephen Ross and Deputy Mayoress Paula Bradley MLA at the One Giant Concert at Theatre at The Mill. Carson and the Lady performance in the castle ruins at Antrim Castle Gardens as part of One Giant Weekend.
. Pictured at a reception held before the play Carson and the Lady are Michael
and Pam Cameron, Mayor Cllr Billy Webb and Lady Mayoress Mrs Pat Webb. Carson and the Lady playwright Michael Cameron pictured with wife Pam Cameron MLA and Sir Jeffrey Donaldson MP pictured at the outdoor premier performance of Carson and the Lady at Antrim Castle Gardens.
SPREADING THE NEWS
We look at some of the stories making headlines this month.
THAT’S SO FETCH
Award winning integrated communications agency, RNN ommunications, has ust launched reland s fi rst micro in uencer plat orm, etch reland, connecting brands with the micro in uencer community in Northern Ireland and Ireland.
RNN Communications has partnered with the founders of Belgium-based fetch – Tom Tack and Stijn Verlinden - to acquire the rights for the fetch platform in the UK and Ireland.
“For the past six months we’ve been building the Irish platform, creating a new website and recruiting new team members in preparation or the launch o etch reland. n uencer marketing is now a key part of many brands’ marketing strategies, however reaching micro in uencers (those with , ollowers plus) has been relatively untapped and unstructured until now…” explains Riki Neill, Director of RNN Communications. ounded in , ommunications already delivers multiple in uencer campaigns on behal o clients in orthern reland and reland. o s client base is outside o orthern reland and the agency works in European markets including Germany and Belgium. olene elly, who has been with the business since , is now Head o ervices at etch reland and will manage the growth o etch reland, client relationships and community management o the in uencer community. igital ommunications ecutive, errie nn c lroy, oins the etch reland team, and it s hoped that the business will recruit another fi ve team members in the ne t two years.
Riki Neill adds: “We’re always looking at new services and more seamless ways to deliver results for our clients. Through client work, we met om and ti n in late and could see the impact that etch social was delivering or their agency and clients. e ve been working on bringing fetch Ireland to market for over six months, and I’m delighted that both local and international brands are already committed to working with fetch Ireland in the months ahead.”
At the launch of Fetch Ireland, pictured left to right Kerrie-Ann McElroy, Digital Communications Executive at Fetch Ireland, Stijn Verlinden, Co-Founder of Fetch Social, Riki Neill, Director of RNN Communications , Jolene Kelly, Head of services at Fetch Ireland and Tom Tack, Co-Founder of Fetch Social.
Fetch Ireland is now live. See www.Fetch-Ireland.social or email hello@fetch-ireland.social
LAP OF LUXURY
Lord Mayor of Belfast Kate Nicholl and John Lunn, Managing Director of Lunn’s Jewellers, pictured at Queen’s Arcade.
lobally renowned brands , reitling, ucci atches ewellery and ontblanc will each have their own dedicated showrooms in Queen’s Arcade, creating a collection of stores unlike anything else in Ireland. The new stores will sit alongside existing tenants including unn s the ewellers agship store, ole , Heuer, onathan eys pticians obinson s hoes.
The new openings follow an extensive restoration programme of Queen’s Arcade which was carried out by its owners, Lunn’s the ewellers, in . he work enhanced the rcade s ictorian splendour and included the restoration of the building’s façade on onegall lace, the laying o a bespoke talian oor and the renovation of the interior’s plasterwork. esigned by ames c innon and built in , ueen s rcade is a ategory listed building and el ast s last remaining ictorian shopping arcade. t was purchased by unn s the ewellers in .
Work on the boutiques will commence shortly and is scheduled to be completed by ecember , with more than new retail and back o fi ce obs to be created by unn s ollowing the e pansion. ohn unn, anaging irector o unn s ewellers, said the addition o new stores or our such iconic brands is a vote o confi dence in Belfast and provides a boost for the city’s retail offering that will be popular with both local shoppers and international tourists as they start to return to Belfast.
“The opening of standalone boutiques for these luxury brands is a huge endorsement for Belfast as very few cities in the UK are able to enjoy this mix of stores. We are excited about the future for Queen’s Arcade and will continue to invest to make it one of the premier shopping destinations in Ireland,” he said. elcoming news o the investment, ord ayor o el ast ouncillor Kate Nicholl said: “It’s wonderful to see this investment in our city’s heritage; Queen’s Arcade is really special – a listed building and the last remaining Victorian shopping arcade in Belfast, so I’m delighted that this continued investment will help ensure it is enjoyed for many years to come.
Action Cancer staff Gareth Kirk (CEO), Lisa McClenaghan, Lucy McCusker, Dougie King, Leigh Osborne and Mark Irwin-Watson with Gloria and her husband Stephen.
Joanna Currie (Action Cancer) shows Gloria the breast screening facilities onboard the new Big Bus.
ACTION CANCER’S BIG BUS
Northern Ireland’s leading, local cancer charity Action Cancer welcomed Patron Gloria Hunniford OBE to Hillsborough Castle to launch the charity’s new Big Bus which will deliver free life-saving breast screening and health checks to communities throughout Northern Ireland for the next 15 years.
The new vehicle was brought to life thanks to Principal Funder Walk the Walk who provided £360,000 in funding and , each rom he arfi eld eston oundation, Ulster Garden Villages and The McClay Foundation.
In the next year, long-term partners Musgrave NI will aim to generate £150,000 in fundraising, through its SuperValu and Centra stores to keep the wheels of the new Big Bus turning.
Action Cancer’s partners and funders enjoyed meeting Gloria and her husband Stephen and celebrating this wonderful milestone in the charity’s history!
. Big Bus Ambassador Cate Conway hosted the event.
Ciarán Maguire (Belfast Solicitors Association) and Philip Mills (Johnsons Coffee) with Gloria.
zzzz Gloria tests out the chair lift with Geraldine
Kerr and Gareth Kirk (Action Cancer). Marietta Connor (Breast Screening Programme, Western HSCT), Hilary Speers and Georgie O’Kane (Breast Screening Programme, Belfast HSCT), Clare Hall and Joan McSorley (Public Health Agency).
Susan Crowe (Ulster Garden Villages) with Gloria.
zzzzGloria receives a health check on board the new Big Bus from Caroline Hughes (Action Cancer).
zzzz FinTru’s Darragh McCarthy and
Katrien Roppe with Gloria.
zzzzAction Cancer Chair Jane Adrain
and CEO Gareth Kirk with Gloria. Andrew Rennie (Siemens Healthcare), Marietta Connor (Breast Screening Programme, Western HSCT), Grania Heal and Jim Seymour (both Siemens Healthcare) with Gloria.
. Kerry Beckett, Stephen Lamb and
Sonya Cassidy from its4women.co.uk
Celine Bradley and Alan Armstrong from Almac with Action Cancer Patron Professor Nicola Edelstyn.
Patricia McIlroy, Desi Derby, Jennifer Morton and Carol Marshall from Musgrave NI.
MILITARY MUSIC DISPLAY
September saw Carrickfergus Castle provide the perfectly atmospheric backdrop to a spectacular display of military music as the Massed Bands of the Army’s four Irish Regiments performed together for the first time in orthern reland in years.
Crowds were entertained by displays from the bands of the Irish Guards and the Royal Irish Regiment, alongside the Pipes and Drums of the Royal Dragoon uards and the ueen s oyal Hussars. special performance from a choir of Fijian soldiers, and their families, who serve in Irish regiments also added to the musical event, compered by s aul lark.
The event was organised by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council in conjunction with the British Army and oyal rish egiment.
Queen’s University Class of 2021
Graduation celebrations at Queen’s University Belfast took place virtually this summer. In this edition we shine a light on students and their success stories as they graduate during changed times.
M ichael Dow ney
It’s double celebrations for inspirational mature student Michael Downey as he graduates with a First in Business Information Technology from Queen’s University Belfast, as well as landing his dream job as a software engineer in New York.
Michael initially planned to study graphic design but decided to defer this and go into employment, working in construction and retail. After spending some time considering his options, he completed an access course at Belfast Met so that he could start a BSc Business Information Technology degree at Queen’s in 2017.
Michael comments: “I have really loved my time at Queen’s. I think after joining as a mature student I appreciated every minute, and it was an amazing environment to be in. When I started my course, I was completely new to programming and software and initially it was di cult. ut in just a few months I had made so much progress and was a lot more confi dent.”
He also travelled to India for a two-month internship with Infosys and did a full year placement in his third year in New York with online ticketing company On the Stage.
He says: “Travelling to India was an amazing experience, I learned so much and met people from all over the world. I also had a great experience in New York during my placement year. I got to stay on with the company and work part-time when I returned to do my fi nal year at university, and I am now working on a full time basis as a graduate software engineer for them. At the minute I’m working remotely but when travel is possible again, I’ll be moving to New York.
In fi nal year, ichael set up the Google eveloper Student Club at Queen’s, with 180 members joining to get more involved in technology. Michael and his team members hosted six virtual sessions with google developer experts discussing innovative new technology. Rosemary Stevenson (aged 50) from Ballymena, Co Antrim, graduated with a First Class Honours degree and top of her class from Queen’s University Belfast for the second time, having managed to do the same when graduating in Law from Queen’s in 1993.
Rosemary, who has practised in commercial property law for the past 25 years, said: “I’ve always loved history and while I’ve had a really enjoyable and interesting career as a lawyer, when approaching my half century, I thought if I don’t do something about it now, I never will. I got married in 2018, just before starting the course, and I would never have embarked on such a crazy few years without the support and encouragement of my husband, ouglas who is a fellow ueen’s law grad.”
She commented: “When I started the degree, I hadn’t planned to teach law as well, but the opportunity came up and was too interesting to turn down. I had also planned to scale back on my legal practice, but old habits die hard. It has been a busy few years, but I’m grateful to my fi rm arson c owell for giving me total fl exibility, and to my clients for their continued support.
Speaking about the most enjoyable part of her experience as a student at Queen’s for the second time, Rosemary explained: “I loved every moment of my history course. On an academic level – the exposure to such brilliant academics was fantastic. I was lucky enough to do a course with Professor Mary O’Dowd before she retired from teaching and count that as a great privilege...”
Rosem ary Stevenson
Paddy M artin
Dedicated student volunteer Paddy Martin graduated with an MEng Chemical Engineering from the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at Queen’s University Belfast. Paddy, who is from Dunloy, Co. Antrim, took a gap year before starting University but broke his leg and took another year to recover. Now graduating from Queen’s, Paddy says he is beginning his new chapter in life with a “fi re to change the world”.
During his time at Queen’s, Paddy was a dedicated volunteer on the IAESTE (International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience) programme. He was Captain of Queen’s Men’s Rowing Club as well as co-founder and Vice-President of Queen’s Foodies and Treasurer of Engineers Without Borders Belfast.
As well as leaving university with a degree, Paddy says he is leaving with a new perspective on life. He says “After my time at ueen’s, I can now confi dently say I know what is important to me and that is working with others to do small things that can help in big ways.
“Being a volunteer for IAESTE has been extremely rewarding. It’s amazing when you pick up an international student at the airport on a rainy day and something as simple as a smile, a cup of tea and toasted wheaten can really turn their day around and put them at ease in a strange country. A kind word or gesture can really make all the diff erence to someone’s day.”
Frances Logan was awarded a First Class Honours (BA Hons) International Politics and onfl ict Studies from the School of History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Politics. Frances Logan (aged 23) from Holywood, Co. Down, was diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukaemia when she was just 19 years old and studying at St Andrew’s University in Scotland. She returned to Belfast for treatment and applied to study at Queen’s University Belfast from hospital. Sharing her experience, Frances said: “During my three months as an inpatient and during my monthly chemotherapy treatments as an outpatient, I met people whose treatment hadn’t been successful and were beginning the search for a stem cell match, to help cure their cancer. I couldn’t begin to imagine how di cult it must be to have gone through what I had, and much worse, only to be told that they had to wait for a donor.”
During her studies at Queen’s, Frances got involved with Belfast Marrow, the student-led branch of blood cancer charity, Anthony Nolan. She said: “I started at Queen’s around the time that I began two years of ‘maintenance’ chemotherapy treatment. As I walked into the Freshers’ Fair in my fi rst weeks as a student, I made a beeline for the Belfast Marrow stand. I got involved because I believe that no patient and no family should have to go through the pain of waiting for a matching stem cell donor.
“I started volunteering with the group in my fi rst year, became the committee Volunteer Co-ordinator in my second and resident of the society in my fi nal year.
“We have had a completely virtual year of activities, but the committee has managed to achieve some amazing things and raised over £7,500 for Anthony Nolan, whilst signing up donors to the stem cell register.”
M adina Sharifova
Madina arrived in Belfast from Azerbaijan aged just 16 and graduated with a First Class Honours in Biomedical Sciences, aged 19. Although moving to a new country at a young age was daunting at fi rst, adina quickly felt at home, fully embracing her new life here. She has won several awards for both her academic and extracurricular endeavours.
Madina says: “I met lots of other international students at Queen’s accommodation and very quickly felt like Belfast was my ‘home away from home’. I settled in well and worked really hard but was still very surprised to hear I won a scholarship at the end of my fi rst year.”
Madina won the “First year international student scholarship” for achieving the highest marks among biomedical students, placing her in good stead to graduate with First Class Honours.
Madina also found time outside of her studies to support others. She recently won an award at the SU Awards for her voluntary work with the Reading Together programme. The programme, delivered by the University’s Widening Participation Unit, brings together trained Student Mentors with children in care aged 7-10 to help them improve their literacy skills.
Madina added: “I loved taking part in the Reading Together programme and particularly enjoyed meeting with my matched child every week to read stories together. It was really rewarding to be able to truly make a diff erence in the lives of these young children and a real honour to be recognised for our commitment to this through this year’s SU Awards.”
Nicole Ew art
Nicole Ewart (aged 22) from Dromore, Co. Down, graduated with a (BA Hons) English and Sociology from the School of Arts, English and Languages at Queen’s University Belfast. from the School of Arts, English and Languages at Queen’s University Belfast. Nicole, who is currently the national title holder of the Face of Northern Ireland, was Nicole, who is currently the national title holder of the Face of Northern Ireland, was diagnosed with chronic migraines when she was years old and has suff ered with the diagnosed with chronic migraines when she was years old and has suff ered with the invisible chronic illness her entire life. invisible chronic illness her entire life. Nicole said “ nlike a regular migraine, I suff er from a migraine every day, varying in intensity from mild to totally debilitating. For years I was unable to do anything because of my illness, but since being diagnosed and having treatment I feel I can live life to the full again. I still do have bad days, but I want to prove that health conditions should not stop you from doing anything you set your mind to. “Since being crowned as Face of Europe and the World (FOEW) Northern Ireland, I have used my title to advocate for awareness of invisible illnesses, as I am a disabled student. Throughout my time at ueen’s, I have been the ublic elations O cer for ‘QUB Inclusion’, a society that makes friendships more accessible for students with chronic illnesses, disabilities and those who are neurodiverse. We have built upon the support provided by Disability Services at Queen’s, which personally helped me throughout my time at university, to create a unique society formed around disabled students on campus. students on campus. She said: “Throughout my time as Queen of FOEW NI, I have raised over £3,000 for She said: “Throughout my time as Queen of FOEW NI, I have raised over £3,000 for our three chosen charities: The Children’s Heartbeat Trust, the NHS, and Headway. I’ve also our three chosen charities: The Children’s Heartbeat Trust, the NHS, and Headway. I’ve also been able to help a lot more local charities and businesses with appearances and separate been able to help a lot more local charities and businesses with appearances and separate fundraising, despite the challenges of the pandemic.” fundraising, despite the challenges of the pandemic.”
Patrick Beatty, Martin Jordan, Linda Giles and John Haughey.
ULSTER PRESS GOLF SOCIETY
The Ulster Press Golf Society event at Belvoir Park Golf Club, sponsored by Harry Corry Interiors, proved to be a great day out in perfect weather, at the outstanding Belfast course.
Joe Kearney from Penton Media was the overall winner of the day with a solid 39 points, on a course where putting was at a premium, on superb but tricky greens.
ThankstoMarkCorry,Marketing Manager of Harry Corry and Brendan McDermott, Belvoir GM for making it a day to remember.
Chris Moore, Tom Coulter, Stephen Montgomery and Gerry McCann at The Harry Corry event at Belvoir Park.
. Michele Shaw, Ruth Gorman and Denise Henry at the UPGS event.
Mark Corry of sponsors Harry Corry Interiors with his guests Neil Anderson, Gareth McMurray and JJ Hannaway.
UPGS Captain James O’Leary (L) with Adam McKendry and Gareth McCullough at the Belvoir Park. David Millar, Munish Sharma, Damian Overend and John Dickson.
John Ferguson, Marc Mulholland, Ciaran McCaffrey (UPGS Vice Captain) and Ryan Adams (GolfNow). The Winners at the UPGs event were L to R: Joe Kearney (Overall winner of The Harry Corry Perpetual Trophy) UPGS Captain James O’Leary, Martin Jordan, VP David Sloan, Gareth McCullough, Kevin McCrudden and sponsor Mark Corry, Marketing Manager of Harry Corry Interiors.
KING’S PARK PRIMARY AND NURSERY SCHOOL, LURGAN All Different All Equal
P1 Play time in class.
P6 Library Visit.
Cross Country Runners. Air Ambulance Cheque Presentation.
PUTTING THE CHILDREN FIRST
King’s Park Primary School was established in 1936 with a prime location at Lurgan Park, an extensive green field town park, which enables pupils to learn, exercise and grow within a natural environment. Over the years the school has grown and expanded with new facilities being added, such as the purpose-built nursery block in 2011 and the Multi-Use Games Area in 2013. The aim at King’s Park is to provide each child with a broad and balanced curriculum in a safe, stimulating environment, with highly qualified and dedicated staff. There is an emphasis on academic excellence and we thrive to develop each individual’s talents and abilities to their full potential.
At King’s Park we have the ethos of putting ‘Children First’ and of playing a central role in the community of Lurgan and helping the children to develop academically, socially, emotionally, spiritually and physically. Our mission is to:
• Promote and support the Christian ethos • Value and respect each child • Create a happy and secure learning environment • Challenge and stimulate each child • Address individual needs • Create equal opportunities for every child
In addition to highly structured teaching and learning policies and creative classroom experiences, children have the opportunity to join:
• Senior/Junior choirs. • Recorder/percussion groups and guitar tuition. • Brass, woodwind, upper and lower strings. • Drama, dance, art, technology club. • Weekly swimming lessons. • Cycling Proficiency, Scripture Union and French Tuition. • Computer, cookery, running, netball and short tennis clubs. • Hockey, football, mini rugby, orienteering and choral speaking.
We believe that extra-curricular activities are a significant aspect of a child’s school experience, helping to develop skills and relationships.
FOSTER CARERS URGENTLY NEEDED IN NORTHERN IRELAND
Action for Children have made an urgent call for potential foster carers to come forward in Northern Ireland. Avery Bowser, Fostering Services Manager, explained: “The need is very great in Northern Ireland at the moment but the numbers coming forward have been too small. “We know that there are lots of people who have the space in their home to foster but they are often put off by myths about fostering. They think it’s only for certain types of people.
“We need people from different backgrounds and communities to become foster carers because our children are all so different.
“At Action for Children we provide foster families that have the warmth and stability that enable children to cope with the changes that life brings them. We do that by recruiting ordinary people, from all walks of life, who do something extraordinary – become a foster carer.”
Avery is asking readers to think about fostering or encourage someone else who could foster.
“All kinds of people can foster. You have to be over 21, have a spare room, the ability to work with children and have the time in your life to give.
“So please give our friendly fostering team a call. The need in Belfast is very urgent and I am appealing for your help.” If you are interested in becoming a foster carer or would like to find out more, please contact Action for Children’s fostering team on 028 9046 0500 or email fostercareni@actionforchildren.org.uk
NI WOMEN’S PRIVATE GREENS LEAGUE (NIWPGL)
President Margaret Nelson with the NIWPGL Committee - L-R: Ann Phillips, Lyn McKee, Sue Willis, Liz Kinder, Margaret Currie and Hazel Rainey.
NIWPGL President Margaret Nelson held her Lady President’s Day at Malone Bowling Club on Friday 10th September 2021. This was preceded by the AGM, followed by an excellent buffet lunch at Malone Golf Club.
President Margaret Nelson and her husband David Nelson with the Malone Men’s President Bill McKitterick and Lady President Brenda Clingen. President Margaret Nelson with the NIWPGL Committee, Selectors and Competition Committeee. Behind chair L-R: Sue Willis, Lyn McKee, Liz Kinder, Margaret Currie and Hazel Rainey. On stairs from bottom - top: Ann Phillips, Linda Culbert, Sally Seaton, Ena Timmons and Sandra Wallace.
THOMPSON’S TEA CELEBRATES 125TH YEAR IN NI
125th
YEAR
Thompson’s Tea, who make Northern Ireland’s best-selling tea, Punjana, have been blending and packing their awardwinning range in Belfast for 125 years. We take a moment to sit down for a cuppa to talk all things tea.
We hear it’s your 125th birthday! Congratulations! How did the story of Thompson’s Tea begin all those years ago?
Well, it all started for us at a tea warehouse near Belfast docks. It was here that our founder Robert S. Thompson trained in the art of tea tasting and soon became known for his uncompromising devotion to quality. Today, as fourth generation Thompsons, we share this same passion for quality and take great pleasure in importing teas from only the very finest gardens in Assam, Kenya and beyond.
Why do you think your business is still around today?
A big part of our longevity can probably be put down to the fact that we simply always insist on buying better tea leaves. Most people know that the secret to creating a great bottle of wine starts with the grapes. How do you make a better cup of tea? You start with the very best tea leaves. As you might have guessed, this steadfast commitment to buying better tea leaves comes at a higher price for us. It takes a certain amount of courage to choose what is best over what is most profitable, but we simply can’t be persuaded to do it any other way.
Congratulations on your recent success this month at the Great Taste Awards!
Thank-you! We were delighted to hear that the Guild of Fine Foods awarded a Great Taste Gold star to our Thompson’s Punjana, our Irish Breakfast tea and indeed our Signature Blend. it is very encouraging that our commitment to better quality tea blends has been recognised by the judges again this year.
So, tell us…is it Thompson’s Tea or Punjana?
Good question! For a long time, we were only known as Punjana. This was a name dreamed up by second generation James Thompson and his wife Elizabeth after getting some inspiration from the Gillespie statue in Comber. Today, it’s still the very same Thompson family blending our original Punjana tea, but now we have a few other blends too. For that reason, you’ll see our Thompson’s Punjana tea alongside our Thompson’s Irish Breakfast, Signature, Decaf and of course our fruit and herbal teas as well.
Do you drink tea every day?
You’ll rarely find us without a cup of tea to hand. In fact, we are tasting teas from around the world every day to ensure that we continue to deliver the very best taste and flavour consistently. To this day, every blend we ever produce is first tasted and then approved by a member of the Thompson family. We feel very privileged to have been tasting, blending and packing our range of Thompson’s teas in Belfast for 125 years.
Catherine Heyes
Director and Head of Property, Peter Bowles + Co. Solicitors Catherine Heyes, Peter Bowles and Clare Curran.
MANAGING YOUR PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY
Head of Property at Peter Bowles + Co. Solicitors, Catherine Heyes looks at the important issue of property management companies, their role and why homeowners should take an interest in the running of the property’s management company.
The past 18 months have brought unprecedented pressures, and the need to adapt to a new way of living, working and socialising. t has been a di fi cult time or many, but it has also seen communities come together, with many reporting that it has been an opportunity to get to know neighbours and foster a sense of community spirit.
For those living in an apartment or a housing development which offers the use of amenity areas with others, such community engagement will already have existed to some extent, often through common membership of a management company for the development.
These are companies set up to deal with ongoing maintenance of commonly used spaces once the developer has completed the sale of all properties. The management company’s shareholders are the development’s homeowners, and each has a legal obligation in the deeds of their property to pay a share of any costs incurred by the management company in carrying out its responsibilities. This payment is typically referred to as a service charge and the amount payable will vary between developments and is dictated by the extent of the common spaces that the management company is responsible for. Grass cutting and landscaping for a single shared open space will cost much less than the myriad demands made on a management company for an apartment building, with common hallways, stairs, and possibly lifts, which need ongoing care and attention.
It is important that arrangements are in place to ensure that the management company carries out its obligations effectively, as well as to ensure that it complies with fi ling re uirements at ompanies House. Occasionally the shareholders may be happy to deal with these matters themselves, but in most cases the company will engage managing agents to act on its behalf. These agents will arrange for necessary work to be carried out, or ompanies House records to be up to date, and will organise shareholder meetings. The fee they charge for doing this is a management company expense covered by the service charges collected.
Even where an agent has been appointed, it is sensible for homeowners to ensure that they take an interest in the running of the management company. Annual general meetings are an opportunity for shareholders to have their say, and to build relationships with neighbours. Poorly attended shareholder meetings can be cause for concern and run the risk of signifi cant problems going unnoticed, such as persistent non-payment of service charges by homeowners, or essential maintenance not being promptly dealt with. As well as the potential impact of poor upkeep and maintenance on the homeowner’s enjoyment of their property, there may be conse uences when trying to sell. solicitor acting for a prospective purchaser will ask for minutes of meetings, service charge budgets and check ompanies fi ce fi lings, and it will be apparent where the company is not being run effectively. This may result in a purchaser opting not to proceed.
If you are considering buying or selling a property in a development with a management company, you can get in touch with our specialist team at Peter Bowles & o. olicitors on 028 9751 2722 or e-mail
catherine.heyes@bowles-law.com.
For further information, please see www.bowles-law.com
Saintfi eld Comber isburn www.bowles-law.com
• Family Law • Personal Injuries • Conveyancing • Wills & Probate • Employment Law • Commercial Dispute Resolution • Debt Recovery / Insolvency • Liquor Licensing
MAN ON A MISSION
PROFILE: DUSAN KAVCAK, Founder and Chief Executive of DK Service Global (DKSG), a product supplier and main distribution centre for hygiene products.
Dusan is “a man on a mission”. He has made his home in Omagh, where his company has been leading from the r t t e t a a t d
From a small town, Snina, on the rder ea ter a a a d after compulsory conscription to the a a tary r t year a left both homeland and family before ett e a t ter r er t a ery r a e era year a e e t a y d ay t a d settled in, Omagh. O er t e e t e year a a a ear ed a re tat r r et a d e t ear ty r ee t a a r e ta er e a d t erea ter
Precision in Dunmurry, were only the tart t ee e d e d at er his team and carry out a range of er e der er e d r ay arde r ea er e a d tar a r a entrepreneurial spirit was beginning to blossom, and when the worldwide d a de e a e r ary a a a a dea y placed to meet the demand that arose. ey e a t ea rry t t e eff rt ea a a local accountant but, more importantly, his business acumen a d ad trat r ded t e ideal platform for the progression of a r rate a d a ty t et eted at a t r y a d ed e e e a e a d a d a de ded t r er e
Global Ltd. Strategic partnerships were formed in Dublin, London and in a a a ere t e a y was beginning to establish itself as a product supplier and main distribution centre for all of Europe, as well as a re ta e er e r der e trade a ree e t ere established to bring on a premium range of Air Filtration machines (the ra d rat er r a y a R y a t ate ted a d ert ed t e t standard, allowing DKSG to build important contacts with suppliers a r d ff ere t terr t r e t e a d re a d t ed ate e These included: local councils, leading hotel brands and a large pub chain, who were among the early adopters, with enquiries coming in daily. e er e e d t e e is in constant demand, with quality a ra e ea ra e a d ert a e re t at t e re e ery r e t DKSG are members of some of the ead r e a d e a d acceptance to the prestigious ‘Safer a e rt a re t t e a ty a d e e t a er in which the company conducted its business.
To date, DKSG are the only a y re a d y a red ted with membership of Safer Space, a ead a ed rt premium practitioners who share the a e dea e e t a y ad at r eco-friendly products and increased education around sustainable best practice. Dusan welcomes enquiries from other contractors wishing to embrace this ethos, where commercial r ta ty ta e e d a e e d t e r t e t hygienically safe solution. er e a are a r d associates and agents of Hungarian de e ed R a a t r a r te t e at a r e a e t d e a r t e sectors and leading brands in Europe, including healthcare groups Audi, ar rr a a d a y re er e a a trade ar ed t Pr te t e e d e y a d a e y r ded t e er e t e re a d leading hospitality outlets for their
private functions and events, including awards-night functions at Crowne Plaza, and Hasting Hotels’ 50th anniversary celebrations.
“It’s all about complete protection of your ecosystem,” explains Dusan. “We bring your hard surfaces and touch points to a clinically safe standard with Tyrosan20. We protect that for up to 12 months with Resysten coating. After that we put in place a meaningful solution for your Air Protection to prevent the spread of viral airborne transmissions. It’s the A – Z solution. And after that we certify your space as a ‘Safer Space’ facility.”
Building a reputable support team in various regions to educate and lobby about the necessity to eliminate damaging habits evolved over the decades, Dusan is on an individual mission to halt that decline - and invite those with the capability or connections that can add value to this ethos to join him on the journey.
It’s plain to see that journey is only beginning. There are plans for a national distribution centre for Tyrosan20 in Slovakia, to service international markets, which Dusan is currently in the process ett a e t t ree languages, which is a clear advantage in this global business.
Dusan is looking forward with de e t eet ter at a contacts at the Dubai World Trade Expo 2020 in October 2021, where DKSG are guests of the Slovakian Government. He aims to roll out what he calls “the DK ethos” and extend its innovative technology and forward-thinking vision to international markets.
It’s a long way from Snina, and the many international boundaries Dusan has r ed t yr e
SERVICE GLOBAL LT D
Unit D31 Omagh Enterprise Centre, Great Northern Road, Omagh, Co. Tyrone, BT78 1JB T: 028 8225 3373 www.dkserviceglobal.com E: info@dkserviceglobal.com
SUN, SAIL, CHAMPAGNE AND SPARKLE AT ROYAL NORTH
uests to be seated at the ailing ecretary’s table prepare to dine in the mar uee.
FRIENDS SHARE 30TH BIRTHDAY BASH
LADIES DAY AT DOWN ROYAL
manda Braden, nn Ballentine, Jenny epper and Jac ui alsh.
THE 60’S ART AND FASHION EXHIBITION
Back row ail Edgeworth, Lisa arris and Ingrid Edgeworth. ront row erstin einiger, Emma Dunbar-Johnston and oe oster.
ictured at offi cial opening of amba hoes, um and Dad Jac ueline and David Bloomer with amba proprietors tephen and Diane obinson.
