WISDOM OF THE WORLD - WEEK 38

Santa’s Bad Day
Not long ago and far away, Santa was getting ready for his annual trip, but there were problems everywhere. Four of his elves got sick and the trainee elves did not produce the toys as fast as the sick elves. Santa was beginning to feel the pressure of being behind schedule.

Then Mrs. Claus told Santa that her Mum was going to come and visit. This obviously stressed Santa even more.When he went to harness the reindeer, he found out that three of them were about to give birth (go on Rudolph!!!) and two had jumped the fence and were out, heaven knows where. More stress.

Then he began to load his sleigh, when one of the boards cracked and the toy bag fell to the floor and scattered the toys everywhere.Totally frustrated, Santa went into the house for a cup of tea and a shot of sherry.

When he went to the cupboard, he found the elves had drunk all his liquor and there was nothing left to drink. In his frustration, he dropped his tea-pot and it shattered into a million pieces and all over the kitchen floor.

He got his broom to sweep all the bits up only to find that mice had eaten the straw off the end of the broom.Just then the door-bell rang and Santa cussed on his way to the door.

He opened the door to see a little angel with a great big Christmas tree.

The angel said, in a sweet little voice, "Where would you like me to put this tree, fat man?"

And that my friends, is how the little angel came to be on top of the Christmas tree....

5 MINUTES WITH – ST NICHOLAS

St Nicholas (also known as Father Christmas or Santa Claus) is well known around the peninsula and the world for his magical work in delivering toys to girls and boys at Christmas. Originally from Myra (now known as Turkey) he became a priest at the tender age of 17 and became renowned for giving poor children gifts. He eventually relocated to Lapland and set up his workshop with his elves to create all the toys for good children. December is his busy month and he is in much demand making public appearances in local communities throughout the world and it is part of his charm that he can manage to fit in so many dates. Some of you may have seen him at the Isle of Doagh or at Willowhill Lapland and of course he has made appearances throughout the peninsula; in Carrowmenagh, Muff, Buncrana, Redcastle and Greencastle to name just a few. “I can’t turn down a request for a public appearance,” he confides. “I know it means so much to all the girls and boys.”

Do you prefer being called Saint Nicholas, Father Christmas or Santa Claus?
I love all of my names. In Brazil I am called Papai Noel, in Holland, it is De Kerstman. In India, the children call me Baba, in Poland I am Swiety Mikolaj and in Lithuania it is Kaledu Senelis. The only thing I don’t like being called is late for my tea..HoHo Ho!

What is with the gear?
In the old days I used to wear Bishop’s robes but when I moved to Lapland I decided I needed a bit more warmth so I went for the fur trim. Sometimes I wore green, but I usually wear the red and white clothing now. The new robe is very easily spotted and its what’s expected of me and of course I like to fulfil people expectations –it goes with the job description.

What should you never worry about?
Never worry about the size of your Christmas tree. In the eyes of children, they are all 30 feet tall.

Favourite animal?
I love my reindeer, Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, and of course Rudolph. Did you know he has a red nose? They never complain and it is a long night for them too. They are great company during the year too.

Any suggestions what to give people for Christmas presents?

To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. and to yourself, respect……
Most people want Wii’s or dolls though and that is ok too-Wii’s are great fun and dolls can encourage love.

Why did you leave the North Pole?
Do you mean the bar in Drumfries, I had to leave because it was closing time…. Oh the Real North Pole…..I left there in 1925 as it was impossible to feed the reindeer. Grazing reindeer get through an awful lot of grass and there just isn’t any at the North Pole. I moved to Finnish Lapland, there’s more for them to eat there and it’s handier for me to get around the world.

What is the name of your wife and when did you marry?
Mrs. Claus…she is shy and just wants to be called Mrs Claus. You would have first heard from her back in 1889. We tied the knot and got the poet Katherine Lee Bates to write about Mary… sorry Mrs Claus in the book Goody Santa Claus On A Sleigh Ride.

What’s that book about then?
In the story, Mrs. Claus pleads with me to take her along on the annual Christmas Eve sleigh ride to deliver toys to all the good little boys and girls. She reminds me that she has worked hard all year long raising perfect sweetie trees and deserves a chance to participate in the fun. I finally agree, and Mrs. Claus’s skills come in quite handy. When I find one little boy’s stocking that is too tattered to hold presents, Mrs. Claus pops down the chimney and mends the stocking, saving the day. I am a bit of a whiz when it comes to making toys, but I am not very handy with a needle. That’s not sexist is it?

What was your least well-received gift?
I always try to match the presents to the needs of the individual. There was the time I gave 30 bin liner bags to a husband. He was puzzled and more so when he discovered that his wife had also very generously hired a skip for him. He was quite relieved as he thought it was a hint for him to leave…. it was only time to clear out the attic though.

What music do you like?
I quite like Alleluia by Alexandra Burke, the winner of this year X Factor, although you can’t beat the original Leonard Cohen version, after saying that, the Jeff Buckley is excellent as well.

How do you get to be in so many places at one time?
I don’t know myself really but it is something to do with me living my life in a different time dimension to that mortals. One day for me is like a year for you and I don’t wake up until November (although it’s getting earlier every year) to check on the vertically challenged members of staff (also known as elves)….The rest, as they say, is magic……..

What would you never throw away?
I would never throw away all of the lovely letters from children around the world, especially those from Inishowen, the children here are very special to me…

What famous people would you invite around for dinner and why?
The tooth fairy, the Easter bunny, and Nelson Mandela. Maybe Peter Kay too for a bit of Ho, Ho, Ho-ing.

What do you have for breakfast?
Mistle-“toast” and Jingle Jam.


What’s your ideal gift?
A gift that would satisfy, with no indecision, Each group of people, every religion;Every ethnicity, every hue, Everyone, everywhere...even you. So here is that gift, it's price beyond worth... May you and your loved ones, enjoy peace on Earth.

WISDOM OF THE WORLD - WEEK 37

The World of Objects

What is your relationship with the world of objects, the countless things that surround you and that you handle every day? The chair you sit on, the pen, the car the cup? Are they to you only a means to an end, or do you occasionally acknowledge their existence, their being no matter how briefly, by noticing them and giving them your attention?

When you get attached to objects, when you are using them to enhance your worth in your own eyes and the eyes of others, concern about things can easily take over your whole life. When there is self-identification with things, you don’t appreciate them for what they are because you are looking for yourself in them.

When you appreciate an object for what it is, when you acknowledge its being without mental projection, you cannot not feel grateful for its existence. You may also sense that it is not really inanimate, that it only appears so to the senses. Physicists will confirm that on a molecular level it is indeed a pulsating energy field.

Through selfless appreciation of the realm of things, the world around you will come alive in ways that you cannot even begin to comprehend with the mind.

From Stillness speaks by Eckhart Tolle

5 MINUTES WITH - SHEENAGH MAHON

Sheenagh McMahon is the local candidate for the Green Party and is currently promoting allotments locally. For the last eight years Sheenagh has been working for Inishowen Women’s Outreach, which provides support for women suffering domestic violence. Inishowen Women’s Outreach can provide women with information on their rights and entitlements to all benefits, including health board services, housing, legal matters and can also refer to or provide an advocacy service for women. They also provide court accompaniment, for women who may feel intimidated at the prospect of facing court appearances alone. The organisation empowers and supports women and children to make their own choices. Their helpline is 074 93 73232. Sheenagh lives on Buncrana with her three sons, Keith, Stephen and Conor.

What music do you like?
I have a real soft spot for Irish ballads but also enjoy Queen and Guns N’ Roses. I am a bit of a rocker at heart and love November Rain sung by Axel Rose. I adored Freddie Mercury when I was growing up.

What would you never throw away?
My right to motherhood…

What book are you reading?
Futurecast 2020 by Robert J Shapiro the former U.S. Under Secretary of Commerce and advisor to Bill Clinton. He takes a look at how he sees what will life be like in the year 2020. Shapiro foresees monumental changes caused by three historic new forces—globalisation, the aging of societies, and the rise of America as a sole superpower. It’s heavy going and a little scary, but I am enjoying it.

What was your favourite childhood game?
I always loved basketball.

Have you been to the cinema recently, what did you see and was it any good?
I went to see Mamma Mia! It’s really good fun and a soft family film that you can take the children and your grandparents to at the same time.

What section of the newspaper do you turn to first?
I try to read the papers from beginning to end but if I am just skimming I will try and find the Letters to the Editor, they always make for an interesting read.

What is your idea of a good night out?
A night in the Drift Inn with good company good food and good craic. My uncle owned the pub some years ago before the Gills took it over so it’s been part of my life for a long time.

Proudest moment of your life?
Last week I met the Lord Mayor of Derry Gerard Diver who gave me the mayoral chain to wear. This was a proud moment for me as my grandfather wore the same chain when he was made the first Nationalist Mayor of Derry back in 1920-1923.

Have you a favourite TV programme?
Would You Believe? It features true to life people who have courage and are inspirational. Last week Mary Robinson was on.

How do you relax?
Horse riding is my therapy. At the weekends I saddle up my horse Co-Co and head off into the countryside.

What job did you want to do when you were a child?
I loved animals and wanted to be a vet.

Where would you like to go for your holidays?
Just somewhere sunny with sandy beaches.

Your idea of heaven?
To be in a position to support and empower the local community…. That doesn’t sound too smarmy does it?

Your idea of hell?
To suffer any injustices that would interfere with my inner peace.

What would you spend a lottery win on?
I would divide it between family friends and some choice charities then with the rest I would buy a farm and breed horses.

What famous people would you invite around for dinner and why?
Mary McAleese because she values community groups and the people who are involved in them. I like her bottom-up approach, which gives people a voice.

Favourite animal?
I just love horses…

What couldn’t you live without?
I wouldn’t like to be without the Internet. It gives you the world at your fingertips.

Biggest fear?
Anything happening to the family.

Biggest thrill?
When my children were born.

The world’s most irritating invention?
My mothers Kenwood mixer. I love eating what comes out of it but it’s always on and sounds like a cement mixer.

What is your idea of a good night in?
Wearing furry pyjamas and slippers and having a nice warm fire watching a movie on a wide screen TV.

Do you have a hobby?
Horses are my hobby, let’s not forget to mention Freddie my little Shetland pony.

Biggest disappointment?
Being let down by people I trusted.

Which period in history would you most like to have lived through?
Today’s a good day……

World’s most useful invention?
Genuine alternative energy sources, solar, wind and wave power.

What do you have for breakfast?
A cup of strong tea, nutty wholemeal bread and butter with marmalade. I am quite partial to porridge sometimes as well.

What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
From my wise father, he said, “At all costs keep your dignity and tell the truth.” It was the best advice I ever had.

Personal philosophy?
Do the right thing….

FANTASTICO

Fantastico Italian Restaurant

Fantastico Italian Restaurant has just opened in Churchtown, Carndonagh and is offering authentic Italian food in comfortable surroundings. The proprietor, Elnai, originally from Romania, has experience working in Italian restaurants, both locally and in Rome where she lived for three years.

Great Choice
Fantastico has a great choice of delicious pasta, pizza’s, salads and fish dishes and of course you can choose to eat in for an enjoyable evening with good company and good food or order a take-away for a relaxing and intimate family evening in. Fantastico is open every day from 4pm –11pm and on Sunday from noon for an appetising Sunday lunchtime treat.

Christmas Party Menu
If you are planning a Christmas Party, Fantastico are now taking bookings and Elnai has prepared a fabulous menu which includes traditional turkey breast, sirloin steak or King scallops, monkfish and clams. Traditional Italian cuisine includes lasagne, fettucine Alfredo and penne al salmone all of which are made from the highest quality ingredients. To book for Christmas or for any occasion phone 074 9374137

NEAL DOHERTYS JEWELLERS CARNDONAGH

Jewellery is a traditional Christmas gift for the loved ones in your life so why not call in to Neal Doherty Jewellers in Carndonagh to pick up the perfect present. Long lasting, precious and beautiful, nothing says ‘I love and value you’ more than a well-chosen necklace, earrings or ring. Neal Doherty Jewellers has stunning designer collections from Zinzi, Yo, Precious Red and Elle and caters for all age ranges and pockets. Choose between classic, romantic, stylish and funky pieces from the well laid out displays.

Diamonds are Forever
A diamond ring is an enduring gift that will be treasured forever. Neal Doherty Jewellers have the most beautiful 18 carat white gold and platinum diamond rings starting from only €400. Engagement rings can also be made to order for those romantic Christmas proposals and of course you can choose your own favourite precious stone such as sapphires, emeralds, garnets and rubies.

Gift Ideas
Pearls are very fashionable at the moment and at Neal Doherty, the cultured pearl necklaces, bracelets and earrings are very popular. There are also beautiful lockets, crosses, medallions and silver curb chains. There is no present like the time and Neal Doherty Jewellers have a wide range of striking watches from top names such as Calvin Klein, Ben Sherman, Accurist and Seiko. Why not pop next door and check out the beautiful bogwood candleholders, the Waterford Crystal and the Newbridge Silverware. There is also attractive Celtic art bronze plaques, handcrafted cards and lovely crib figures and decorations. Although Neal Doherty offers plenty of stylish gift ideas there are also cheap and cheerful stocking fillers such as Christmas mugs at €1.50.

WISDOM OF THE WORLD - WEEK 36

The Last Supper

When Leonardo da Vinci was painting his famous work, The Last Supper, he wanted to paint Jesus first. So he sent people far and wide with the hope of finding a person whose overall countenance would be representative of Jesus. His representatives brought back the perfect fit – a handsome, upright young man with good manners. Da Vinci was very happy with the young man modelling as Jesus.

Over the next few years Leonardo found models to portray eleven of the disciples and at last there was only Judas left to paint. Finally a man was brought to the artist, whose appearance was testimony to many years of anger, hatred and selfishness. Leonardo was satisfied and started to paint. The model began to cry.

“What is the matter?” Leonardo asked him.

“Don’t you know me?” the man wailed.

“I’m sorry…” Leonardo said in confusion looking at the man more closely.

“Look at your own painting,” he pleaded to the painter, “I’m the same man you choose to portray Jesus so many years ago.”

Da Vinci looked closely and saw that it was true. Due to years of spending time in bad company, becoming selfish, angry and hurtful, the same man that had so well represented Jesus was now a perfect match for the man who betrayed him.

We become like those we associate with.

5 MINUTES WITH - MARK CAREY

Mark Carey is just back managing Flanagans Furniture shop in Buncrana. Mark, originally from Malin Head, started working for Flanagans in 1994 and is happy to be back to see long-standing customers and meet new ones. He had taken time out to work in Franklins but feels furniture is a more interesting business because customers can create an item to their own taste. Mark feels that the challenge of the economic climate is to make sure that Flanagans offer the best service and the best product while not being beaten on price. Mark is married to Susan Porter from Dumfries and they have two sons, Jordan (9) and Lee (7).

What music do you like?
I like most stuff. Heavy rock like Rainbow and Lynyrd Skynyrd. I remember going into Derry up to HMV to buy Rainbow’s Greatest Hits. The shop-keeper asked who sang it. Grrr.

What would you never throw away?
I would throw anything away!

What book are you reading?
Funnily I’m reading 2 Ku Buk, which is the Scouting Handbook for Ireland. I am a leader with the 11th Donegal Buncrana Scouts, which started this year.

What was your favourite childhood game?
It had to be football.

Have you been to the cinema recently, what did you see and was it any good?
The last film I went to was Igor and the next will be Madagascar 2. It tends to be kid flicks with the boys and it’s a good excuse to go and see them because they are usually enjoyable.

What section of the newspaper do you turn to first?
I’m not much of a newspaper reader – It tends to be a glance at the front page and then I turn to the back.

What is your idea of a good night out?
Decent food, decent wine, decent company.
.
Have you a favourite TV programme?
Match of the Day and I enjoy the CSI’s too.

How do you relax?
With work and family I don’t have much time for relaxing.

What job did you want to do when you were a child?
I wanted to be a fireman.

Where would you like to go for your holidays?
I’d love to take the family to Disneyland –I’m still a kid at heart…

Your idea of heaven?
That would be myself, Susan and the boys all curled up on the couch watching a good DVD.

Your idea of hell?
Driving in Dublin. Everything is so badly signposted.

What would you spend a lottery win on?
I would get the usual things, a new car and a classic car. We’d have our trip to Disneyland, I’d get all the jobs done around the house and get an Astroturf pitch for the boys.

What couldn’t you live without?
Susan and the boys. Family comes first.

Biggest fear?
Anything happening to the family.

Biggest thrill?
I’m usually pretty even in my moods I’m easily contented, but I guess it would have to be getting married to Susan and the boys being born.

The world’s most irritating invention?
Mobile phones are pretty annoying, but I think Bluetooth must be the worst. People walking about, talking away on the phone. Sometimes I go up to talk to them and they are just chatting away to some-one else.

Do you have a hobby?
I coach under-10 football and I am a scout leader. I also enjoy gardening.

Which period in history would you most like to have lived through?
I’m quite happy in this period –I think I lived through the best times in the 80’s and 90’s. I don’t want to live in history –just enjoy the present.

World’s most useful invention?
All inventions have their uses but I think health inventions like kidney dialysis machines are useful- anything that eases the suffering of people.

What did you have for breakfast?
Coffee and a nutrigrain bar

What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
Two pieces of advice really. 1) Keep trying and 2) Do your best.

LINK 2 IN LETTERKENNY

Link2 in the Courtyard Shopping Centre in Letterkenny opened its doors this October and has a great selection of gift ideas this Christmas. Paul and Keith Harvey had been working in music retail in Letterkenny for seventeen years and really know and appreciate their customer base. They saw a gap in the market and decided to branch out on their own, selling gadgets and novelties as well as music and DVD’s.

Link2 has a superb selection of all the top Irish CD’s including the new albums from Ronnie Drew, Enya and Snow Patrol. Don’t forget the comedy gem Nob Nation 2 –The Recession Album and DVD’s from Conal Gallen, Tommy Tiernan and Brendan Grace. There are loads of others to choose from and include all the chart stuff as well.

Novelties
At office Christmas parties it is customary to have a Chris Cringle and it can be difficult to think of a gift for a colleague who you may see every day, but not know that well. There are all sorts of fun ideas at Link2 such as the tight-git wallet (only €7.99) or the swearing punch ball (for €9.99). Guaranteed to break the ice and get a laugh before your first glass of wine takes effect.

Gadgets Galore
What is it about boys and their toys? How does a remote control helicopter make a seemingly well-adjusted man go weak at the knees? How many fathers buy a remote control car for their son and end up only giving them a turn very reluctantly? Link2 has a wide range of gadgets including the latest remote control helicopters, which they demonstrate in the store every Saturday and Sunday.

Ideas for Kids
Of course kids love gadgets too. What about a popcorn-maker at €34.99 for a healthy and fun treat or there is a rocket lava lamp (at €19.99) to create the right atmosphere for your moody teenager. They also have all the Sesame Street Puppets as seen on the Late Late Toy Show including Bert and Ernie and Oscar for €20.

On-Line
Paul and Keith have recently launched Link2 on-line too and you can purchase items at http://www.link2.ie/. This website only shows a few of their in store items but more are being added.

So when you are in Letterkenny, why not pop into Link2 in the Courtyard Centre and grab a few innovative and different gifts.

MAKING A WILL

An old proverb says that there is nothing certain in this life except death and taxes. We may not know the hour or place but our days are certainly numbered. It is not something we like to think about, and we all hope it will come later rather than sooner, but it is important to be realistic and to prepare for death by making a Will. It doesn’t have to be time-consuming or expensive to have a Will drawn up, and it gives you the opportunity to direct where you would like your assets to go. Some people have land, property or shares to leave as specific legacies and we all have personal items that we might like to leave to a friend or relation for sentimental reasons. As well as bequests to spouses and children, you may wish to remember a particular charity.

Your Local Solicitor
It is advisable for every-one over the age of 18 to make a will that will enable your property and assets to be distributed according to your wishes. A properly drafted Will allows you to provide for your wishes and the needs of your spouse, children, partners and/or family members. Your local solicitor will be happy to explain the benefits of drawing up a will on your behalf and you’ll find it doesn’t take up too much time and it is not that expensive. Drawing up your Will provides that all-important peace of mind that your affairs are in order and that your loved ones are taken care of. Wills may need to be reviewed over the years

Appointment of Guardians
A Will also deals with the appointment of guardians for children under 18. In the event of an unexpected or premature death, children under 18 or those with special needs need to be looked after and taken care of. A guardian will take on the parental role and responsibilities. In order to ensure that your children have a guardian that you choose, it is important to have this specific information written into your Will, and of course talk it over with potential guardians to make sure that they are willing.

Personal Executor
A personal executor ensures that your last wishes and the instructions in your will are carried out. When you draw up your will, you can choose your personal executor. Again, check out with this person that they are prepared to do this for you.

What happens if I die without making a Will?
If you die without a Will this is called in testate. This means that your worldly assets and property will be divided according to the Succession Act of 1965. In effect, this means that your spouse inherits your entire estate if you have no children. If you have children, two-thirds goes to your spouse and a third to the children. If you have no spouse, all your possessions go to your children. If you have no spouse or children, your assets go to your parents and if both are deceased to your brothers and sisters. When you die in testate, delays and probate expenses can mean that your loved ones have to wait when they might need financial support. It also means that your finances become public record.


Make an Appointment
It is easy to delay making the appointment for drawing up your Will, but it is something that shouldn’t really be put off. It is one of the most important documents that you have to prepare, so why not phone up for an appointment today.

LAURENTIC BAR IN LINSFORT

HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY THE LAURENTIC BAR

It doesn’t seem like a year ago that the Laurentic Bar in Linsfort first opened its doors to the public. How has the past year been for this exciting new business venture on the road to Dunree?

“It’s been a fantastic year,” says manager Jim Porter. “One year on and we have gone from strength to strength, building up a loyal customer base from all over the peninsula and further a field.” The Laurentic staff pride themselves on custom service and Declan and Danny, the two in-house chefs who have been with them from the start, are always adding to the mouth watering choices of food that are available every day. “We have some real delights on the menu.” Begins Declan. “The black and white stir fry with chicken and beef, stir fried in a wok is proving to be very popular. We also offer a sea bass infused with lemon and parsley to keep with the sea faring theme of the pub.”

STEEPED IN HISTORY
The name of the bar has strong links with the sea. The SS Laurentic, which inspired the name, was chosen to carry forty-three tons of gold bullion from Great Britain to Canada. On 25th January 1917. The ship struck a mine and sank within an hour in 40 metres of water. An incredible salvage feat between 1917 and 1924 recovered 3186 gold bars of the missing 3211 with a further 5 being recovered in 1932 by another salvage operation, leaving 20 gold bars still unaccounted for at the bottom of Lough Swilly worth some €15 million at current prices. So if you have a spare afternoon you could have a look around the coast of any that have washed up before going to the pub for a bit of refreshment.

POPULAR SPORT
If you are in the need of some relaxing sporting activities, how about a game of darts? The Laurentic is proving to be so popular for the game that they have had to install a second board in the taproom.

LIVE ACTS
Over the coming week s the Laurentic bar has an impressive line up of live acts to get the feet tapping. Hugh McGonagle, Damian Harkin, Sharon Nixon, Brian Mulland, Robbie Cunningham, Danny McCarron, Kevin McLaughlin and the band Tullagh will all be appearing between now and the New Year. And if you fancy a bit of a flutter, the Dunree Rovers are having a night at the races on the 30th of December.


HERE’S TO THE NEXT YEAR!
Jim puts customer service on the top of his most important list and realises it is the support of his customers that has made this year so successful “The Laurentic has had a wonderful year and I would like to thank all of the customers from here and around the world that have graced our doorway in that time. Here’s to the next year!”


WHAT’S ON LIST

5TH OF DECEMBER- Hugh McGonagle – ANNIVERSARY NIGHT

6th of December – Damian Harkin.

12th of December – Sharon Nixon.

13th December – Tullagh

19th December- Brian Mullan.

20th December- Robbie Cunningham.

21st of December – Hugh McMonagle.

26th of December – Danny McCarron.

27th of December. Brian Mullan

28th of December- Sharon Nixon.

29th of December- Tullagh

30th of December - Hugh McMonagle.
And the Dunree Rovers Night at the races.

31th December – Kevin McLaughlin

5 MINUTES WITH - HARRY KERR

Harry Kerr is originally from Scotland and has been living in Inishowen for 8 years with Martha, his wife and business partner. Before moving to Buncrana Harry, worked as a graphic designer and photographer for Scotland’s largest Museum, the Summer Lee Heritage Trust before moving on to become a Technical Instructor for fine art at the Glasgow School of Art. He and Martha now run the highly respected Memory Factory Photographic Workshop in the centre of Buncrana.


What music do you like?
I have a varied range. I enjoy the likes of John Martyn and just missed him playing at McGrorys in Culdaff last time he was here. I also enjoy classical music and I pretend to know a bit about it.

What would you never throw away?
Photographs, good, bad or otherwise. Photographs are important when they are first taken, then generally get forgotten. It’s good when a photo re-appears years later and their true value is recognised.

What book are you reading?
I have just finished All the King’s Men by Robert Penn. It’s been made into a film starring Sean Penn and Jude Law. The story is about the life of populist American Southerner Willie Stark and loosely based on Governor Huey Long of Louisiana

What was your favourite childhood game?
When I was a wee boy I would get up to the usual physical stuff that the pre- daytime television or computer game generation would do. I was the youngest in the house of three brothers and one sister so spent years coming last at games, especially ones that included a ball.

What section of the newspaper do you turn to first?
I don’t read the printed news…. I am on the computer a lot and have a ticker tape style news headline list running on the corner of the screen. It gives me up to date world news and if something catches my attention, I’ll click on it.

What is your idea of a good night out?
I enjoy a good meal out. I was spoilt for choice when I lived in Glasgow and London and like to think I know a good restaurant when I see one. My favourite at the moment is the Sunrise Indian restaurant in Buncrana.

Most embarrassing moment of your life?
It varies from day to day…..The one that springs to mind was at the Sanctuary rail in Letterkenny Cathedral recently. I was taking photographs at a wedding with at least four hundred guests attending. The mass was just over and the bride and groom were about to sign the register when my phone went off. The ringtone was “I will walk 500 miles” by the Proclaimers. I ran to the door and threw the phone outside.

Have you a favourite TV programme?
I really enjoyed a series called Westwing. The program was made between 1999 and 2006 (I have the DVD’s). It was years ahead if its time. Lost is quite good fun but they have lost the plot a bit this series.

How do you relax?
When I am left to my own devices I like silence or a bit of opera, something like Tosca.

What job did you want to do when you were a child?
I wanted to be an astronaut or a train driver, most children of my age group aspired to these professions. I used to sit on my coal shed at night with a telescope looking up at the moon. I treasured my Fisher Space Pen, remember those?

Where would you like to go for your holidays?
I enjoy cities so regular holidays would be going to European cities like Florence, Milan or Barcelona. It would be fantastic to visit the world’s emblematic man-made structures too, such as the Pyramids and the ancient Inca site of Machu Picchu in Peru.

Your idea of heaven?
It would be the very earthly experience of walking the dogs in the woods on a nice spring or autumn day.

What famous people would you invite around for dinner and why?
The theoretical physicist Robert Oppenheimer who is remebered for being the father of the atomic bomb. He headed the team that first tested the bomb in the Trinity test in New Mexico. Oppenheimer famously quoted the Bhagavad Gita: “If the radiance of a thousand suns were to burst at once into the sky, that would be like the splendor of the mighty one. Now I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds.” He did loads of other work that isn’t as well known such as research into black holes and quantum field theories.

Favourite animal?
I have two of them. Two Dalmatians, twin sisters Flash and Leica.

Biggest fear?
Trading my clogs in… It puts everything else into perspective…

The world’s most irritating invention?
Badly spelt text messages, Txt spk.

What is your idea of a good night in?
A big fire, a good film and a half decent bottle of red wine.

Do you have a hobby?
I have never understood the idea of hobbies. What my wife and I do now is part of our lives and who we are. I don’t have the need for anything to fill my time.

Which period in history would you most like to have lived through?
This one. It would be tempting to say in the past to meet people like Leonardo da Vinci but then again when you think of the open sewers, pestilence, plague and famine. No thanks…

World’s most useful invention?
Moveable type and the printing press. These gave us mass produced books and the dissemination of information.

What do you have for breakfast?
Toast if there’s time…

What couldn’t you live without?
If it’s things you are talking about, they are very over rated. I think it’s more important to have an understanding of people. That is where inspiration comes from.

OFFICIAL OPENING OF SWITCH BY MARY COUGHLAN

5 MINUTES WITH - RONA MCLAUGHLIN

It’s a busy time of the year for Rona McLaughlin as Christmas approaches. Rona is originally from Dublin and has been living in Inishowen since 2002. From June this year Rona has taken over the marketing and promotion of the Buncrana Chamber of Commerce. She is no stranger to the corporate sector and has worked for large organisations through the University of Ulster. As a business and marketing graduate she is very well qualified to take on the next challenge of redesigning the Buncrana gift vouchers and promoting the Shop Local initiative. Rona lives in Carndonagh with her husband Noel, daughter Shannon and son Neil.


What music do you like?
I tend to like particular songs rather than a set type of music. But with a toddler and a teenager in the house the music tends to range from nursery rhymes to Girls Aloud and Snow Patrol so it’s very wide ranging.

What would you never throw away?
I am a little bit of a hoarder and keep loads of useless items but I do have a cross and chain that belonged to my brother, I would hate to lose that.

What book are you reading?
Potty Training, for my son’s benefit I hasten to add. But I recently re-read the 'Dark Materials Trilogy' By Philip Pullman.

What was your favourite childhood game?
Just messing about outdoors, I don't think we ever had a set game it was just outdoor fun. It is sad for me to think that our kids probably won't experience the same games as the world has moved on and we are all afraid of not knowing where they are and what they are doing.

Have you been to the cinema recently, what did you see and was it any good?
No, we haven't been to the cinema since before my son was born.

What section of the newspaper do you turn to first?
Definitely not sport. It is generally the local community pieces on the notice boards first.

What is your idea of a good night out?
I love my sleep, so I tend to be home by midnight at the latest. A meal with friends is great.

Most embarrassing moment of your life?
Nothing really stands out; generally I talk too much so I am always putting my foot in it.

Have you a favourite TV programme?
I am not a fan of soaps, but I love Heroes.

How do you relax?
Again, I love having friends over for a meal or going over to them is even better...no washing up. We are members of the Inishowen Kindergarten and have met some great friends from that so it’s nice to meet up with them and the kids, not guaranteed to be relaxing, but it is enjoyable.

What job did you want to do when you were a child?
Just the normal, baby sitting.

Where would you like to go for your holidays?
I really like Andalusia in Spain, we been a couple of times and its like Inishowen but with sun.

Your idea of heaven?
Being at home with the husband and kids on a sunny day and just deciding to go to the beach. Packing the car and kids and being on a great beach within 30mins. It’s a great day out and we are so lucky to have so many beautiful beaches in Inishowen.

Your idea of hell?
Living in the city. I was born and raised in Dublin, but I really am not cut out for city living. I love the sense of community we have here and the friends we have made so I really couldn't go back to it now.

What would you spend a lottery win on?
Updating the home, pay off some bills and put some aside for the kids education.
My husband would probably get another polytunnel. I wouldn't mind
upgrading the car too.

Favourite animal?
Dogs. Man’s best friend

What couldn't you live without?
Family goes without saying but I was at home for a year with my son and we didn't have broadband so no e-mail or Internet and it was really hard. I felt quite lost without it. I lost contact with a lot of people.

Biggest fear?
I think all parents fear losing a child or anything happening to them

The world's most irritating invention?
Shower Caps, I really don't understand the point.

What is your idea of a good night in?
Getting a chance to sit and relax with my husband, probably a glass or two of wine wouldn't go a miss either.

Do you have a hobby?
We have a polytunnel, so I like to garden. I do the weeding and seeding but Noel tends to do the heavy donkey work. But I am a lightweight once the cold weather hits in, I tend to lose interest and leave it to the hubby.

Biggest disappointment?
Nothing in life seems that important given enough time to get over it so I try not to dwell too much on things.

World's most useful invention?
I love the Internet. So much information, most of it unnecessary but brilliant none the less.

What do you have for breakfast?
Porridge and honey, a good hearty breakfast

What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
My mum always said to remember how lucky you are.

Personal philosophy?
Be grateful for what you have.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING IN BUNCRANA

Pulls
Hubert McLaughlins (HML) is the Wains World for grown up men who love to play.

When you walk up the grand red staircase of the Elite Electrical shop and go to the second floor you are greeted with what most of us wouldn’t be without, it’s not Santa, but it’s a great choice of wide screen televisions.

The smell of Christmas greets you as you walk into Finishing Touch and that’s because Georgina, the proprietor, always has some mulled (alcohol free) drinks to hand to warm up any cold shoppers.

Even before stepping into Bloomin’ Marvellous you will see gorgeous outdoor planters that are brimming with winter colour and will be flowering well after the festive period.






THINK OUTSIDE OF THE GIFT BOX AND SHOP IN MILLTOWN AND ARDARAVAN

The Milltown and Ardaravan shopping areas of Buncrana are the newest additions to the town. In a very short period of time the areas have become a much-needed expansion to the town merging seamlessly with the older shopping areas.

The Inishowen Independent would like to take you on a tour of the area starting on the top of the hill at Milltown, the thriving retail park that is such an easy walk from the town centre. Parking is free and plentiful. The first port of call is Wains World.

Wains World

Walking into the bustling atmosphere of Wains World you are greeted by both the friendly staff and a giant picture of Winnie the Pooh. The large images don’t stop there as Peter Pan and Batman are looking down on you from above as you walk into the downstairs play area. The key points for most parents is for their children to have a good time, to be safe, eat well and eventually to tire themselves out so they sleep well at night. Wains World ensures all of these things and gives parents the chance to sit and relax and read the paper whist the children enjoy themselves. Here is what a recent visitor said on the Tripadvisor website:

“ Finally a place where you can let your kids run a muck!” The Cafe was lovely and open so the children could come and go to us as they pleased and the food was very good- which was a pleasant surprise. Not to mention the cleanliness, the place was impeccable. Go and have the craic and stress less for a few hours.

Wains World has just introduced a fabulous new menu for Christmas and is planning a Christmas disco for a bit closer to the day. Check out the party packs, they can cater for large groups of children for parties and special occasions. Next door the Wains World is Elite Electical.


Elite Electrical store
Elite electrical is looking forward to a busy Christmas. On entering the shop you are greeted with a wide choice of low energy festive lighting for both inside and outside of the house. “People are only too aware of the extra costs involved at Christmas and low energy lighting is one are we can lessen the shock of a large ESB bill.” John, the proprietor tells us. The shop also stocks low energy bulbs for everywhere else in the house and the savings can be tremendous. “We stock low energy downlights that now fit flush into the sockets.” He continues. When you walk up the grand red staircase of the Elite Electrical shop and go to the second floor you are greeted with what most of us wouldn’t be without, it’s not Santa, but it’s a great choice of wide screen televisions. “I sell products that I know and trust,” says John. “We have two new innovative products new to the market. The Sink Erator and the Frank ‘Little Butler ‘ kettle. The Sink Erator is a waste disposal unit and can cut your waste bill by up to a third, as it will even grind chicken and chop bones up. The Little Butler is an innovative device that does away with the need for a kettle. It is a third tap on the sink and boiling water is always available.” Elite also sell top of the range fridges should you need to upgrade your old one to get all of the Christmas goodies in


Premier Carpet Co
Are you stuck for a gift idea for a loved one? Have you ever considered buying a rug? Rugs are a very prominent part of any room and they would be welcomed in any area from beside the bed to the fireside. Premier Carpet Company based on the Milltown estate is stocking a wide choice of different sized rugs for any space. It doesn’t have to be for a present either; maybe your home deserves one too. Ronan from the shop tells us of another incentive for ordering your carpets now before the Christmas period. “If you order your carpets now we will guarantee that you will have it fitted before the reindeers come onto your roof.” There is a wide range of top quality carpets to choose from. The shop also stocks a wide range of wooden and laminate flooring as well as vinyl’s for the more practical areas of the house.


HML
Hubert McLaughlins (HML) is the Wains World for grown up men who love to play. The store is packed to the rafters with well-known brands. Bosh, Ryobi, Stihl and Makita tools are all well laid out and ready for holding to see if they are the tools for you. HML cater for both the DIY’er and the professional. On a more festive note HML have some really good ideas for Christmas presents, not just for the man who wants to mix concrete or fix the coupling on a tractor linkage. If you fancy converting a room in the house into a pool or mini snooker room then HML will have the perfect table for you. Made from top quality materials these tables are flat and precise so you can show off your skills to the children, unless they are too busy outside on one of HML’s Berg go-carts. Berg go-carts are made in Holland to a very high specification and can withstand even the Inishowen potholes. They have pneumatic tyres and some have more gears than a flappy paddle Ferrari.

Before we go anywehre else we need some refreshment... there's no better place than The Lunchbox.

O’Donnell’s Premier Meats
Heading down the hill from Milltown and into the Ardaravan area we come toO’Donnell premier Meats. When you walk into the shop the professional butchers, who know a good cut of meat, greet you. They are expecting a lot of trade as people stock up their fridges and freezes for the Christmas period. To make life easier for people who have enough on over the festive period, the staff has put together some Handy Packs of choice products. There are different ones depending on the size of family so you can choose from the basic Tea Time Pack, Handy Packs, Weekly Planner Packs and if you need to feed all of the family that come over for the big day they will make up a Freezer Top Up. There are plenty of accompaniments on offer in the shop as well so if you need a bag of spuds a packet of stuffing, fresh or frozen food it’s all conveniently laid out for an easy shopping experience.


Finishing Touch
Up the road from O’Donnell’s meats you get to Finishing Touch, the furniture and gifts shop. The smell of Christmas greets you as you walk into Finishing Touch and that’s because Georgina, the proprietor, always has some mulled (alcohol free) drinks to hand to warm up any cold shoppers. Georgina has sourced fabulous gifts and Christmas stock from all over the world, most of which you have never seen before so it has a fresh and unique feel to it. All of the products on sale have come through the Ifat and Bafts Fair Trading companies so you have piece of mind that people who make the goods are well paid and work in safe working environments. “The decorations are flying out of the shop.” Georgina tells us. “There are going to be some very beautifully decorated Christmas trees this year”

Brennans Pharmacy
Across the road and heading into the town we get to Brennans Pharmacy. The chemist has secured a strong foothold in the area and is perfectly positioned for easy access with disability ramps and ample free parking. The shelves and counter are brimming with gift ideas from perfumes to toiletries and the friendly staff are always happy to answer any of your questions when it comes to keeping the dreaded colds at bay. Brennans are also offering a €10 gift voucher scheme, ask in store or check out the advert for more details.

Bloomin Marvellous
Popping up the street a short distance we get to Bloomin’ Marvellous, which certainly lives up to it’s name. Karen, the owner and driving force behind this successful business has everything you will need for a bloomin’ good Christmas (‘scuse the pun). Even before stepping into Bloomin’ Marvellous you will see gorgeous outdoor planters that are brimming with winter colour and will be flowering well after the festive period. Polyanthus, cyclamen, ivy and skimmia all go together beautifully to warm up the winter doorway. Inside the shop you are greeted by a wide selection of cut flowers and accessories as well as indoor plants. The Christmas cacti are budding and will be in full flower and a perfect gift - and where would we be at this time of year without the poinsettia, a must for everyone’s front room. Karen stresses that we need to get any flower orders in soon “There is a big demand all over Europe for cut flowers this year and we are making sure that we will be getting the best. Get your order in now so we can let the growers know exactly what we need to make Inishowen beautiful.”

McGuigan Opticians
McGuigan’s opticians next door to Karen’s have some fabulous frames on offer for those of us that wear spectacles. The shop is set up in a minimalist fashion and is very well laid out with plenty of room to float around and try all of the frames from the practical steel racks. There are well-known brand names like D+G, Prada, Versace, Gucci and of course the famous Ray Ban range. To make buying the glasses more affordable for Christmas McGuigan’s are offering 20% off a range of designer frames and this year they have taken the innovative step of offering Christmas gift vouchers . It would be impossible to choose frames for someone else so a gift voucher will allow the recipient to choose their new style… fantastic idea.


Elaine’s Hairdressers
You only have to hop next door to get to An Siopa Gruaige - Elaine’s hairdressers. This warm and friendly salon has the most comfortable settees in the town and very welcoming staff that will make sure that you have the best service whatever the occasion. “We have some lovely Pampering Packages this Christmas.” Says Elaine in between dealing with happy customers. “You can get a complete package of a Californian tan, Hair styled, make-up and manicure from €70. We also do Indian Head Massages to relieve the stresses of doing the last minute shopping.” The salon also sell hair products and are offering the JHD straighteners at €20 less that last years prices. “We also have discounts for men too with 20% off on Tuesday and Wednesdays. “If men say they are pushed for time then we also have a late night session on Thursdays until 8pm, so there’s no excuse for men to look untidy for the Christams holidays”

Shopping in the Milltown and Ardaravan area of Buncrana is a very enjoyable experience and has so much to offer on it’s own and as a part of the lager town of Buncrana. When you are thinking of Christmas shopping think outside of the gift box and use all of the facilities that Buncrana has to offer… you won’t need to shop anywhere else…

WISDOM OF THE WORLD - WEEK 34

I’m Nobody

One day, a rabbi, in a frenzy of religious passion, rushed in before the ark, fell to his knees and started beating his breast crying, “I’m nobody! I’m nobody!”

The cantor of the synagogue, impressed by this example of spiritual humility, joined the rabbi on his knees. “I’m nobody! I’m no-body,” he too started to proclaim.

The “shamus” (the custodian), watching from the corner couldn’t restrain himself either. He ran over and joined the other two, falling on his knees and calling out, “I’m nobody! I’m nobody!”

At which point the rabbi, nudging the cantor with his elbow, pointed at the custodian and said, “Look who thinks he’s nobody!”

Chassid

SHOPPING IN CARNDONAGH - EDITORIAL

CARNDONAGH – THE PLACE TO BE FOR SHOPPING

Take a look at the map of Inishowen and you will see that at its centre is the town of Carndonagh. Carn Domhnaigh or ‘Cairn of Donagh’ is a thriving market town - and has been for centuries. It is the place that farmers and traders have always come to serve the wider community from Ballyliffin to Culdaff, Gleneely and Moville. The thriving Inishowen Co-op and cattle market still serve the farming community but in today’s economic climate a town needs to serve all the consumer interests of an even larger catchments area. Carndonagh does this.

Driving in on any road, the prosperity of the town is apparent. Carefully planned new developments are still being built even though there is a down turn in the economy. New retail outlets will soon be in place to add the already comprehensive choice of shops. Carndonagh boasts one of the largest community schools in Ireland, which shows just what a large population the town and catchment area has, the last census showed over 2000 people living in the townland alone.

CATERING FOR THE CHRISTMAS SHOPPER
If you are asking yourself how Carndonagh can cater for the Christmas shopper then let us take a trip around town, starting in the Diamond, the fresh looking central point of the town.

The Heel Bar
Situated conveniently next to the Diamond, the Heel Bar knows all too well what men want for Christmas….High visibility jackets, trousers and safety boots. Men like a bargain and when they find out that the whole set costs a credit crunching €44.50, they will insist that they get a set for their birthday too. The bargains don’t stop there either. The shop stocks top of the range brand names such as Gore-Tex and Snickers work wear which will also make the ideal gift. Make sure that Santa doesn’t get left out in the cold either by getting him a key cut at the Heel Bars key cutting counter. Better still get a couple of sets for yourself and the family that will be popping around. No-one likes to be left in the cold. The Heel Bar also stock Alike locks, which allows on key to fit all of the doors of the house. They do free estimates and free fitting as well.


Shoe & Sport Store.
The Shoe and Sport store in the town have plenty of Christmas gifts for every-one. There’s €5 off a wide range of their boots and they have the latest stock just in of team calendars and teddies. These products are highly sought after so don’t leave the shopping until the last minute as stocks are limited. Check out the other bargains in store as they have €10 off a range of their sports shirts of all the top teams like Liverpool and Chelsea.


Hirrells of Carndonagh
Next we come to Hirrells, a shop that is bursting with a huge selection of vital Christmas goodies. As soon as you walk into the shop you are aware of the huge selection of lights and decorations for both indoors and outdoors. Christmas would be a dull place without the shimmering glows on the trees and houses. Talking of trees, Hirrells are selling fabulous fibre optic ones for only €49.00, and because you can use them every year they make fantastic financial sense. If you are decorating the doors, walls and tabletops then Hirrells have a great range of cribs, candles, wreaths and garlands too. Let’s not forget what Hirrells are well known for, they also have a fabulous range of toys for all ages. If you are looking for board games, crafts or techno games for the PSP, Nintendo DS and X Box the Toyland section of the shop is now open.


THERE’S MORE THAN SHOPPING IN CARNDONAGH

Branching out a few steps from the Diamond we get to more shops, not all of them are selling products, some are giving us that much needed services that boost to our self confidence and well being.


The Natural Touch Beauty Salon
The Natural Touch Beauty salon on Chapel Street has fantastic offers available from now until Christmas. Fancy a facial or an Indian head massage? Maybe you would enjoy a full body wrap and body massage to get you in the mood for going out to the staff party. Whilst you are enjoying the pampering; why not get a gift voucher from them for a loved one too.

The Loft
Just off of the main road we find a brand new row of shops. The Loft on the New Road in this complex has full beauty and tanning treatment facility for the serious beauty seeker. They offer exclusive Glamma Puss products. There are injectable treatments for wrinkles and a wide range of other services from lip enhancement, mesotherapy, restylane/perlane fillers, facial line smoothing sclerothereapy and cosmetic enhancements. Their next clinic is on the 2nd December, and booking is essential.

Serenity Hair Design by Collette
Don’t forget your hair, the winter weather can be hard on your head insulation. Serenity hair designs in the town are stocking a full range of organic hair colours and mineral products. These are generally more expensive products in the salons but at Serenity they are used at no extra cost to you. There might be time to get a couple of styles in before Christmas and if the man in your life wants a trim them at Colette’s then there are reduced rates (they have less hair after all) On Tuesdays there are special rates for senior citizens too so all of the family can go along


ROLL OUT THE RED CARPET

Ryan Carpets
Heading down the Malin road out of the town you will see Ryan Carpets. There’s no better time to roll out the red carpet for your guests over Christmas and the New Year. Ryan carpets also stock a wide range of vinyl and wood flooring for those of us who need a low maintenance, practical surface to mop up the spilt wine and trodden in mince pies that were dropped over the festivities. If you are having friends and family staying over the holidays and would like their stay to be comfortable and luxurious, then a new bed and bedroom furniture might be on the cards. Just make sure they are not too comfortable, you don’t want them staying too long after the New Year…

WISDOM OF THE WORLD - 34

IF I HAD MY LIFE TO LIVE OVER

(By Erma Bombeck (written after she found out she was dying from cancer).


I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren't there for the day.

I would have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before it melted in storage.

I would have talked less and listened more.

I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained, or the sofa faded.

I would have eaten the popcorn in the ‘good’ living room and worried much less about the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the fireplace.

I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about his youth.

I would have shared more of the responsibility carried by my husband.

I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer day because my hair had just been teased and sprayed.

I would have sat on the lawn with my grass stains.

I would have cried and laughed less while watching television and more while watching life.

I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn't show soil, or was guaranteed to last a lifetime. Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished every moment and realized that the wonderment growing inside me was the only chance in life to assist God in a miracle.

When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never have said, 'Later. Now go get washed up for dinner.' There would have been more ‘I love you’s’ More ‘I’m sorry’s.’But mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute, look at it and really see it, live it and never give it back.

STOP SWEATING THE SMALL STUFF!!!



Don’t worry about who doesn't like you, who has more, or who's doing what. Instead, let's cherish the relationships we have with those who do love us.

SHOPPING LOCALLY - EDITORIAL

Investing for the future: A marketplace of small businesses is the best way to ensure innovation and low prices over the long-term.

Your community is unique, and local traders understand this.

“I go to many different shops around Buncrana for my shopping, that means I get the best prices around and it also has a great social aspect too as I see a lot of people I know.” IG Buncrana

A wide variety of small businesses, each selecting products based not on a national sales plan but on their own interests and the needs of their local customers, guarantees a much broader range of product choices




SHOP LOCALLY - MAKING YOUR COMMUNITY SUSTAINABLE

No one can tell you where to shop. You will use your head when it comes to getting the best value and best products for your family. Sometimes though the answers go a little deeper that saving 10 cent on the price of a tin of beans or getting an item for the house from miles away because they appear to have a better sale price. Often by the time transportation costs, customer support and time are taken into account we can find ourselves out of pocket.

Face value prices are just the tip of the consumer iceberg. Delve deeper and you see that shopping locally and supporting your local suppliers helps the local economy to grow. It’s not just the retail shoppers at the end of the supply chain that benefits; it is the whole community.

Significantly more money re-circulates in an area like Inishowen when purchases are made locally which helps the sustainability of the community. Money keeps flowing through the community especially if these businesses buy from other local businesses and service providers; such as accountants, solicitors, printers, insurance agents and fuel companies. This has great benefits for the local economy, which is needed in these difficult financial times.


REASONS TO SHOP LOCALLY

Environmental Sustainability

Local shops help to sustain vibrant, compact town centres, which in turn are essential to reducing urban sprawl, car use, and air and water pollution.

Small businesses provide jobs for local people, who then do not have to drive so far to get to work.

Going a shorter distance to get what you need saves your precious free time.

Small businesses generally have a much smaller environmental footprint than big shops.

Shopping locally saves precious fuel.

The quality of items sold locally tends to be better, since the shop owners realise you might be back to complain! That means less cheap junk ends up in a landfill or incinerator.

Local business may stock locally made or grown items, like honey or vegetables.


MAKING YOUR COMMUNITY SUSTAINABLE

For every euro spent at a locally owned business, 48 cent stays in the local economy. This makes a huge difference to the wealth of an area like Inishowen. A market place of small businesses like the ones found around the peninsula is the best way to ensure innovation and low prices. This will help make the area economically healthy for a long time into the future.

Product Diversity
A town full of small businesses, each selecting products based, not on a national sales plan, but on their own interests and the needs of their local customers, guarantees a much broader range of product choices. This competition and diversity leads to more choices for the customer. Our one-of-a-kind businesses are an integral part of Inishowens distinct character: This unique character is what brings people here and can keep us here. A growing body of economic research shows that in an increasingly homogenized world, entrepreneurs and skilled workers are more likely to invest and settle in communities that preserve their one-of-a-kind businesses and distinctive character.


Jobs
Locally owned businesses means more jobs in the area which is good for the community. Customers can get more friendly service whith staff that understand their needs.

Community Well-Being
Locally owned businesses build strong ties by sustaining communities, linking neighbours, and by contributing more to local causes. Our euro spent in locally-owned businesses have three times the impact for the community, then a euro spent else where. When shopping locally, you simultaneously create jobs, fund more local services through sales tax, invest in local improvement schemes and promote community development. You help to keep the euro in the local economy



Local Decision Making
Local ownership means that important decisions are made locally by people who live in the community and who will feel the impacts of those decisions. Local traders care about your community. They will donate to your school sports team and work with activists on community improvement campaigns. Not because they want to make themselves look good, but because the owners of these shops live and work next to you. Local businesses require comparatively little infrastructure investment and make more efficient use of public services. Local businesses pay council taxes, funding town services.


Local interest
Local businesses care about the community. They are closely connected to it, and thus consider their impact on it. They are more willing to invest in its future. Many owners generously donate time, money and products to efforts that benefit their neighbours. Non-profit organizations receive an average 350% greater support from local business owners. Local businesses are owned by people who live in the community, and are less likely to leave and are more invested in the community’s future.


Element of surprise
The element of surprise and discovery in a small local shop whose inventory is carefully chosen by the owner means you can find all sorts of unexpected treasures. And with food shops, you may find a wider assortment of fresher, locally originating, and organic products. In a local shop, you can build a relationship with the staff, the owners and employees get to know you as people, and the smart ones know how to make you feel special. To be greeted by name and be told that something has just come in that your spouse will just love means a lot.

BUNCRANA SHOPPERS COMMENTS

“To support local businesses, I'll sometimes pay a little more than I would in a large store in the city. But once everything is taken into consideration, travel, time, environmental impact and customer support, I think I would be better off staying within a couple of miles of my house.” – MD Buncrana

“I go to many different shops around Buncrana for my shopping, that means I get the best prices around and it also has a great social aspect too as I see a lot of people I know.” IG Buncrana


HOW LOCAL SHOPS DO THEIR BIT

Mac’s Bookstore
Eunan McLaughlin from Mac’s bookshop stocks as much as he can from local suppliers. A majority of the cards and calendars in the shop are from Irish companies “ We stock O’Brien cards that are made in Ireland, they are top quality. Our books come from Irish suppliers and closer to home we have hand crafted cards from a company in Malin Head.” Eunan sources other products locally too. “We deal with a local cash and carry supplier in Gleneely for our minerals and confectionary and deal directly with companies such as Kerry Springs, the drinks manufacturer,” he explains.

Kavanagh Supervalu
Kieran Doherty is manager of the Supervalu store in Buncrana. The company employs 85 staff locally and their motto “Local food for local people” is part of their major branding and marketing strategy. “We stock as many local products as possible,” says Kieran. “In the cooler department we have local companies such as Country Kitchens from Malin, who supply soups and salads, Crana Foods make coleslaws and fresh vegetable mixes for our customers and our eggs come from Inishowen Eggs. We source fresh seasonal vegetables from small suppliers locally as well as larger set ups like Doherty’s potatoes from Bridgend. Our distribution network is also based locally to save unnecessary transportation.”

Elaine’s Hairdressers
It’s not only food suppliers that source their products locally. There are some surprises like Elaine’s Hairdressers in Buncrana. Elaine’s hairpieces come from a local supplier. “We also have a supplier in Burt who manufactures an organic moisturiser and cosmetic range”. Elaine works in a fast moving industry and new product ranges are released almost daily. It’s very popular for customers to choose organic product and ones that are gentle to the hair. We get organic hair colourant from Letterkenny and are in the process of having and organic range made even more locally.” she tells us. “The staff are also constantly upgrading their skill with courses and I try to get these courses brought to Inishowen instead of us having to travel away.” The salon is a good example on how a business such as this has a knock on effect on the local economy as the sales of magazines and coffee increases with every customer…….

LOCAL MUM WINS NATIONAL AWARD

Mother of three, Sarah Quigley-Burns is in complete shock after being presented with the National Student of the Year Award from Portobello School in Dublin. Sarah graduated last June from the regional course in Letterkenny, with a first class distinction in her Diploma in Montessori Teaching. It was a tough year for Sarah, juggling the responsibilities of parenting alongside her studies, all while she was pregnant with her third child, Saorla, (now aged four months). In fact, she gave birth to her baby daughter just ten days after sitting her final exam. “It was a bit close alright.” Sarah remembers, “I was worried that I was going to have her before the exam.”

“This award isn’t just for me,” explains a delighted Sarah, “It was a total family effort. My mother would look after Cillian (3) and Líoda (2) and my husband Steven would have to organise to work at home some days to be with the children so I could go to my placement and to the course.”

Wednesdays were the most challenging days for Sarah as she juggled work placements, evening classes and obstetric appointments, often running from one to the other.

So what motivated Sarah to take on this challenge at this stage of her life? “I really wanted to get out and work, but really I was a full-time mum and I was breastfeeding too, so it was hard to find something that would fit. Also, if I were working part-time I wouldn’t be taking home much after paying for childcare. Working as a Montessori teacher seemed to fit in with my life style.”

Last September, Sarah and her partner Jennifer Grant, set up the Little Acorns Montessori Playschool in Carndonagh. They work it as a co-operative where each takes it turn about, working one week in the playschool and the other week looking after the under 3’s as Jennifer has a baby too. It is an arrangement that suits Sarah well as she finds that working part-time gives her more energy to be with her children and she is totally happy with her childcare arrangements.

Sarah really enjoyed the course and found that as well as the benefit of having a qualification to teach children aged 3-6, it helped her in her approach as a parent. The Montessori philosophy says that children are happiest when they are busy working and that if a child is able to choose its own work freely then they learn faster and more happily. Children don’t struggle to keep up with others as they work at their own pace. Sarah’s role is to direct and show the children how to use the materials. There is also a strong emphasis on connecting the children to nature and teaching them how to take care of the environment. Sarah and Jennifer’s Little Acorns Montessori Playschool is open on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and Sarah can be contacted on 0749374096.

5 MINUTES WITH - PADRAIG DOHERTY

Pàdraig is in his transition year at the Carndonagh Community School. He was recently voted onto the Donegal Youth Council to represent young people in the Inishowen electoral area and throughout Donegal. He is one of 36 teenagers who will be lobbying for more facilities for young people around the county and will be working closely with local councillors to implement initiatives.

Pàdraig is a keen sports person and last week was part of the winning Carndonagh team in the under 16B’s hurling county final championships….beating Buncrana 3-1 to 1-2…..


What music do you like?
Rock. Pop. Anything and everything. I tend to listen to chart music mostly.

What would you never throw away?
Hurley sticks. I would only get rid of one if it was really badly broken.

What book are you reading?
The Road by Cormac McCarthy. It’s a post-apocalyptic tale of a man and his son trying to survive by any means possible

What was your favourite childhood game?
When I was younger I used to play tag. I enjoyed allof the running around. When I got to about four years old I found Gaelic and Hurling. It’s the same sort of running around but it’s more structured and competitive.

Have you been to the cinema recently, what did you see and was it any good?
I went to see The National Treasure starring Nicholas Cage, who is a treasure hunter in hot pursuit of a mythical treasure. It was very enjoyable.

What section of the newspaper do you turn to first?
I will have a look to see if there are any good headlines and read those. Generally though it would be the sports pages to read up on hurley, gaelic, soccer and rugby. If I knew that friends were going to be in the paper, I would look them up first.

Have you done anything really daft recently?
Last week I was making a snack of beans on toast. I opened the can of beans then went to lift a heavy pan off the cooker. I was still holding the lid of the can in my hand when I squeezed hold of the pan handle. I needed three stitches. Luckily NowDoc were in Carndonagh or I would have had to travel into Derry or Letterkenny to be treated.

Have you a favourite TV programme?
I tend to watch factual programmes when I have the time. There are a couple of good talk shows on that I would watch. The Panel and the Blame Game are both entertaining.

How do you relax?
I play the computer. I spent a lot of time on the Football Manager game. I managed to get my team to the top of the division.

What job do you fancy doing when you leave the education system?
Keeping in the education system……I fancy being a primary school teacher.

Where would you like to go for your holidays?
Australia has always appealed to me. The laid back lifestyle is similar to ours and you get the benefit of the good weather

Your idea of heaven?
If Donegal won the All Ireland final.

Your idea of hell?
Recently that would have been last week when Carndonagh lost the Junior Ulster quarterfinal. Malin stayed up.

What would you spend a lottery win on?
I would buy an English football team. The team I bought would depend on the amount of money I won. It would make more sense to buy a club that is low down in the divisions and build it up to be a super team.

What famous people would you invite around for dinner and why?
Roy Keane the ex Man. United player and now Sunderland manager, Sean Cavanagh, the Tyrone footballer, Hector Ó hEochagáin from Hanging with Hector and the comedian Des Bishop for a bit of craic.

Favourite animal?
Dogs. We had a lassie type dog for years and now we have Darky, the scruffy 11-year-old collie.

What couldn’t you live without?
Sport. I have training most nights of the week.

Have you been anywhere interesting recently?
The family and I went to Bodega near San Francisco in the United States recently. It was for a family wedding. The scenery was a bit like Malin Head. We all took over a holiday village very close to the telephone box where Alfred Hitchcock filmed a woman getting attacked in a scene in the film The Birds.

Biggest fear?
Looking up at heights. I can climb up anything without any fear and look down but there’s just something very strange about looking up at tall buildings.

Biggest thrill?
I can only think of rollercoasters

The world’s most irritating invention?
It’s not a can opener although it comes close. It would have to be ticking clocks.

What is your idea of a good night in?
Enjoying something interesting on the telly. When people recommend a film to me I will always give it ten minutes to see if it’s any good.

Do you have a hobby?
Sport, sport and sport.

Biggest disappointment?
Two years ago I was in the Division 2 under 14’s Inishowen Gaelic team and we were in 5 finals. We won four – The championship and county championships, but were beaten by Moville on the last one, depriving us of a grand slam.

Which period in history would you most like to have lived through?
From the year 0 (2008 years ago) to see what really happened.

World’s most useful invention?
The Internet with broadband. I use it a lot for school projects and surfing.

What do you have for breakfast?
Plain porridge.

What are the best pieces of advice you have been given?
There are a few that family members have told me. Don’t look at the negatives. You can do as many courses and exams as you like, but knowledge will only get you so far, you have to be willing to take a few risks. The school journal quoted a good one last year “The biggest risk in life is not to take a risk at all.”

Personal philosophy?
Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.