HEALTH AND FITNESS

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Taking care of your health and well being makes you feel good about yourself in many ways

We are living in a fantastic place to keep ourselves healthy in body and mind with all sorts of resources available locally -many of them free.

Youth and community centres are great local resources for all sorts of activities that can keep you physically and mentally active and healthy


In today’s current economic climate, people are quickly realizing that they have to be part of the solution, to take action, and gain more control of their lives. Keeping healthy in body, mind and spirit is a personal decision and can be less work than you think. Here are some top tips.

· Feel good about your decisions. Bin the guilt.

· Choose exercises you will enjoy and start off in small steps. If you are sociable, try a dance class, if you are spiritual what about yoga and tai chi. If you like a bit of peace and quiet try running (you only have to go around the block at a very slow jog the first day).

· Remember when you felt when you were at you fittest. Get out a photo from that time and pin it up. It will help you keep your goal in mind.


· Get active. Put dance music on when doing housework, play football with the kids. Get the bikes out again for the spring.

Diet

“You are what you eat”

Eating a healthy diet with lots of fruit and veg and less fatty and junk food will increase your energy levels and your immune system. Make small changes such as cutting out snacking on biscuits and have some raw carrots instead. Cut down on tea and coffee and try herbal tea or even hot water.

If you have the occasional treat or binge, don’t feel bad, enjoy it and start again the next day.

Inishowen
We are living in a fantastic place to keep ourselves healthy in body and mind with all sorts of resources available locally -many of them free. Our landscape and natural environment is a real asset to our local community. There are fantastic walks, beaches and hills that tourists from all over the world pay a fortune to come over and enjoy. Spending time outside, walking, cycling, gardening is such a great way to keep healthy, physically and mentally. Get wrapped up and get out there. You will get fitter and feel better.

Golf
Golf is a great way to keep fit and healthy on so many levels. Meeting up with others to play, network and have a bit of craic gets you out of the house for a wee break (that’s bound to be good for you). It can help with mental performance as when you are playing well and are in ‘the zone’ your mind is perfectly quiet and of course you are moving your body walking and taking your shot.

(Don’t forget your warming up exercises if you haven’t played for a while).

North West Golf Club Suspends Entry Fee
North West Golf Club has suspended their First Time Members’ Levy for a limited time so first time members just pay the annual subscription for the season. They have also held their green fees at last season’s prices so if you are playing Monday to Friday it is €30 (or €20 if you are playing with a member) and €35 on Saturday and Sunday (€25 if playing with a member).

They also have special Green Fee rates for players who prefer their golf in the late afternoon. These ‘Twilight’ Green fees will begin in June and cost €15 after 7pm (Mondays to Fridays), €18 after 6pm at the weekend).

Crazy Fit Massage
This power vibration machine is hitting Inishowen by storm. You can hire a machine to use in the comfort of your own home for only €25 per month. It is a great machine for toning and losing weight without having to put any effort in yourself. You simply plug it in, stand on the plate, switch it on and away you go. A ten-minute workout is the same as an hour in the gym. Contact John McLaughlin on 087 2074527

Youth and Community Centres
Youth and community centres are great local resources for all sorts of activities that can keep you physically and mentally active and healthy.

Clonmany Youth and Community Centre
In Clonmany they have a special offer for March with gym membership only €250. There are all sorts of activities on for children and young people (from under 9’s to under 18’s) including indoor football, badminton, uni-hoc, martial arts, disco dancing and boxing. Linda Brady teaches gymnastics on Wednesdays.

Volunteer
Helping out in your local community is also a great way of keeping your body and mind active especially if you have more time on your hands then you are used to. Clonmany Youth and Community Centre are always looking for volunteers for basketball, art, drama, indoor athletics, table tennis or for their games room. If you have an hour or two to spare during the week, or are interested in any of the classes and offers, please contact the centre on 074 9376772

Buncrana Youth Club
Buncrana Youth Club also has great activities on that can help you get fit for summer. Kathy’s Irish dancing for adults is a fun and popular way to get fit and have a bit of craic. Classes are held on Mondays and Thursdays at 8pm.

If you prefer your dancing less traditional the check out the dimensions dance club on Saturday at 6.30pm All ages are welcome and the qualified dance instructors are Linda Brady and Danielle Duddy. Boxing is always popular locally for men and women. Training is on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays between 6.30 and 8pm.

KERNANS IN NEWTOWNCUNNINGHAM

Kernans in Newtowncunnigham is celebrating this Friday with an open day. The day is to publicly introduce its move to Eurospar, giving greater value to you the customer, as well as to show off the new diner.

The fun kicks off about 11am with give-aways, spot prizes, free coffee and food and of course tremendous value in store. Highland Radio’s Lee Gouch and Steven Lynch will be joining in the festivities broadcasting live throughout the afternoon.

Situated in the heart of the community, the new, recently revamped, store is many things to many people. Having moved from a convenience store, the supermarket is now bigger, brighter and better value. Having global buying power, Eurospar, means that prices in the store are 20% less this year – just what customers need these days.

Natural Meeting Place
The 100-seater diner has been expanded (from 60) which means that there is plenty of room to eat and meet. Because of the location on the main Derry to Letterkenny route (or the Belfast to Galway road as one commuter noted), it has become a natural meeting place for business folk and locals alike. People can relax with a coffee or catch up with some work using the wireless broadband connection.

Speaking of coffee, Kernans is the only shop outside Dublin with a Barista Insomnia Coffee Dispenser. This coffee has become extremely popular with locals as well as the ‘dashboard diners’. The specially imported, roasted beans are very fresh and could certainly spoil you for other coffees.

Buying locally
Although Kernans now have global buying power, they still like to source as much produce as possible locally. Most of their fresh goods come from local suppliers and they used local builders for the new revamp.

Fresh Meat
The new butchery department has two local butchers who previously worked at McGees butchers in Letterkenny. The meat is all sourced locally, bought on the bone and butchered properly. It is not bought in ready prepared so you can be sure of quality meat at Kernans.

Biggest Local Employer
Anthony Kernan who runs the shop originally played football in England for Wolverhamton Wanderers. After he hurt his knee he came back home and went to Jordanstown to study business and finance. He decided to help his family set up Kernans for six months back in 1990 and has been there ever since. Anthony is proud to be one of the largest employers in the area with the shop employing 80 people locally. He also has a shop in Ramelton and is opening another in Stranorlar soon.

“Others may be downsizing, but I feel that spending the money on the expansion will help to safeguard future employment in these uncertain times,” Anthony explains.

New Appointment
Anthony has seen the shop reinvent itself four times over the years and there are always changes happening. “We are lucky to have just appointed a new manager, Liam Igoe who is coming to us from Buncrana Supervalu” Anthony, says “He has loads of skills and experience.”

Value Value Value
Anthony understands that it is all about value for money these days and Kernans is happy to provide this. Special offers at the moment include three easter eggs for €3.50. Now that is eggciting!

MARY D'S IN QUIGLEYS POINT

Mary Doherty will be busy today keeping her St Patrick’s Day customers satisfied with top quality food from Mary D’s take-away in Quigleys Point. Mary has recently taken over the business (formerly McCreadies) and has been busy expanding the menu, sourcing first class ingredients as well as starting an outside catering service offering great grub for birthday parties, confirmations and special events.

“I love what I do,” Mary explains. “I really enjoy working with the food and having the craic with the customers.” It is not just about fun for Mary though. She aims to set very high standards in the food she offers.

Quality
“I buy the best quality ingredients available. The potatoes are chipped fresh every day and I buy the highest graded spud you can get. The burgers are made from minced steak. It is 100% Irish beef and all the meat is supplied by local butchers,” she says with pride.

Buying locally to support the community is important to Mary. “I think in the times that’s in it we need to shop locally and give every-one a wee bit of a chance,” she explains.

Low Prices
Mary has the same supportive attitude toward her customers. “Although I have been improving the quality of food, I am keeping the prices the same as I want to suit the customers pockets in these days,” she says.

She has also been expanding her menu and offering the customers a wider range of options adding chicken breasts and spicy beef amongst others to her usual fare of take away, pizzas and kebabs.

Qualifications
Mary, originally from Burnfoot, now lives in Ture. She had been working in the take-away before she took it over and had previously been in hotels for about twelve years. She started off washing dishes in the Inishowen Gateway and then moved on to working with the chef in the kitchen and managing the accommodation. In her spare time Mary went to the North West Regional College in Derry where she got her qualifications in catering. As if she wasn’t busy enough with her new business, Mary is planning to return to college. “I am planning to go back and complete my higher levels,” she says.

Support
So how was it for Mary taking over the business? “I felt very nervous at the beginning,” she confides. “You know, taking on a new project and all. But I have to say it is really working out well.” She pauses for a moment, thinking.

“I have to say that I have had great support from my family and I am really lucky with Emer, who works with me –she is not just an employee, she is a friend too and is always there. The customers have been great too.”

If you would like to contact Mary for her outside catering service you can call her on 0874187530

RECESSION BUSTING

As the economy tightens its belt we all have to make some changes to the way we live. The best way to get through the recession is to manage and clear your debts and cut your costs.

Managing Your Debts

MABS (Money Advice and Budgeting services) is funded by the Government and is a free, confidential, independent and non-profit making service for people in debt or at risk of getting into debt. The service can also help low-income families develop the knowledge and skills they need to avoid getting into debt and deal with situations as they arise. MABS also identifies sources of credit that best meets people’s needs and helps them access these sources. There are four important steps that MABS uses to help people get to grips with their finances:

1.Assessing the situation,

2.Working on your budget,

3.Dealing with debts and

4. Managing payments.MABS also provides information and advice through their website http://www.mabs.ie/ or you can call the MABS help line on: 1890 283438

Cutting Your Costs

There are two main ways to cut your costs:

1) Buy things cheaper

2) Don’t buy things at all

It can be worth keeping a spending diary to see exactly where your money goes and see where you can cut costs.

· Do you need that item or do you want it?

· Can you bring a sandwich with you instead of buying lunch out?

Check out other providers for your household services to cut down monthly bills.

Check reduced to clear rails and shelves in the shops.

Use the library

Swap services with friends and family (I’ll cut your grass if you baby-sit for me on Saturday night).

Get into green living; darn and mend, switch off light bulbs, use up leftovers, grow your own veggies, use energy saving bulbs etc

Bargains
You can also take advantage of the good side of a recession. “There’s a good side to a recession!" we hear you exclaim suspiciously. Actually there is, namely that there will be bargains to be had.

As consumers become more hesitant to spend, many shops and businesses are finding it harder to survive. This means you can find some great deals locally on needed necessities and services. Check these out….

Jeffrey McLaughlin, Optician

Jeffrey McLaughlin is offering free eye tests and glasses for approved medical card holders and PRSI payers (terms and conditions apply). He also has great deals on designer specs like 2 pairs of fcukTM glasses for €199. You will find Jeffrey McLaughlin optician shops in Chapel Street Carndonagh and Lower Main Street Buncrana.

Inishowen Blinds

Inishowen Blinds are offering 25% off selected vertical and roller blinds. With free estimates, free fittings and a five-year guarantee, getting your quality blinds could be cheaper than you think. With the daylight saving coming in at the end of the month, blinds can help keep the light out when you want the children to spend an extra hour in bed. Inishowen Blinds are in Milltown Business Park, Buncrana and you can call them on 074 9361708 or 0862231817

A & N Fuels

With a budget looming in April and a possible hike on fuel prices it makes sense to fill up now.
A & N Fuels have the cheapest fuel in Ireland (as seen in the News of the World). We all need to keep warm and making our money go further is especially important these days. To keep your heating and diesel costs low call the A & N Fuels hot line on 07493 61542 / 20795.
The fuel isn’t just cheap. A & N Fuels have a reputation for providing top quality fuels, great service and they also guarantee next day delivery if you call them before 4pm.
Locally based, why not call in to their depot in Aghilly Buncrana to see their comprehensive range of oil tanks, coal-bunkers, emergency oil drums (20litres), wood pellets, coal, lube oils, greases, tank gauges. While you are there you can fill up with diesel.
A & N Fuels, providing best value, top quality and quick delivery. Keeping you and your family warm for less.

Caratra Bar, Restaurant & Guesthouse Culdaff

Caratra Bar, Restaurant & Guesthouse Culdaff is just recently under new management with Brian & Loretta Bonner. They are currently promoting excellent home cooked meals using fresh local produce ensuring that eating out has never been more affordable. With a complimentary bottle of wine with your 3 course meal for only €30 per couple, the Thursday special is a real recession buster. The couple want to bring the value back to eating out in a warm cosy, friendly environment where you can get value for money & your custom is really appreciated. As if that wasn’t enough they are also offering a local radius curtsey car to drop you home so you can leave the car behind & have a few drinks with your meal. With wonderful surroundings and a relaxed pleasant atmosphere it is also the perfect venue choice for birthday parties, family gatherings, communion & confirmation outings. So whether you want great value food at affordable prices or just a good pint by a snug open fire why not come along to Caratra where your money goes further!!!

Building and Joinery Work
There are plenty of bargains to be had for building and joinery work. If you are considering an extension, like a garage, sunroom or conservatory then give Damien McLaughlin a call on 0749134852 or 0044 7714300034. Damien has slashed his prices offering low, low rates. His prices may be low, but he does a great job. So for unbeatable value and top quality building and joinery work throughout Inishowen and the North West, give Damien a call.

Plant Hire
Hiring out plant equipment can keep costs down especially when the prices are competitive. If you need a JCB Fastrac with loader and dump trailers or 120 Hitachi call Damien McLaughlin on 0749134852 or 0044 7714300034.

Mangan Tours
For a coach holiday that you can afford and you will remember, Mangan Tours provide great value for money. They have a tour for every-one from the Highlights of Holland, to the London and Chelsea Flower Show, From Lake Garda to Alton Towers and Cadbury World, from the Festival of Quilts to the Burren and Cliffs of Moher.

O’Donnells Premier Meats
O’Donnells Premier Meats in Buncrana always provide excellent meat at good prices. For a credit crunching recession busting deal check out their week planner meat pack which will satisfy the whole family. For €22 you can get one large chicken, 4 pork chops, 500g of steak pieces, 500g of pork pieces, 500g of minced steak and eight pork sausages. Now that’s a bargain.

5 MINUTES WITH - JACKIE CARTIN

Jackie Cartin lives on the border of Muff and Derry and is originally from the Brandywell in the heart of Derry. She is a specialist in Natural Nutritional Education and Consultancy. Her company Pure Products and Services, is an umbrella for her many different activities. Jackie designs and delivers cookery classes and workshops on healthy living and lifestyles for local community groups and schools. Jackie enjoys introducing practical, user-friendly alternatives to junk food to people. One of the classes is a Natural Approach to Weight Loss where one satisfied client lost eleven stone over the course of one year. Jackie finds the classes in the schools have a positive impact on the children and she hopes that her natural approach will help in the long term with diabetes, obesity and mental health. Also under the umbrella group is her fresh and frozen ready meals catering for vegetarians and vegans. Check out the full menu on her website http://www.pure4life.org/ or you can contact her on (0044) 7742922543 or on myspace.com/pureproductsandservices

Jacqueline lives with Martin McDaid and their children Sam, Leah and Seosamh. You can also get a chance to see Jacqueline at Natural Health Fair on the 21st March at the Inishowen Gateway Hotel, which is on between 10am and 4:30 pm.

What music are you listening to at the moment?
The new remastered Astral Weeks by Van Morrison, which was originally recorded in 1968. I am also enjoying Grainne Duffy (from Castleblaney in County Monaghan). It is bluesy soul music and I am also listening to some classic jazz from Imelda May.

What books are you reading?
I read anything on nutrition and have a lot of reference books from when I was studying for my Nutritional Therapy exams. I use them a lot. I have a cook book by Nomi Shannon called The Raw Gourmet, which I dip in and out of. I also have a book called End the Struggle and Dance with Life by Susan Jeffers, which is always floating around the house somewhere. I like to browse through it as it keeps me focussed.

What was your favourite childhood game?
I loved being out of doors and cycled a lot. I come from a very large family of 11 children and I shared a bedroom with 5 sisters. We could always rustle up a rounders team.

What was the last film that you saw at the cinema?
Perfume – It’s a story of a man with a superior sense of smell who attempts to create the ultimate perfume and how his world takes a dark turn in his quest.

What would you never throw away?
I don’t have anything left from my childhood… everything was worn out. It would have to be the memory of my first pair of Wrangler Dungarees with their wide flares. The dungarees have gone but the memory remains…

Most embarrassing moment of your life?
Coming from a large family, we had lots of embarrassing moments so I was well seasoned to them from a young age. Things like that tend to wash over me.

Favourite TV programme?
This could fall under the heading of “Embarrassing moments” I like Desperate Housewives, the X Factor and a bit of reality TV like Big Brother. I can’t believe I have just admitted to that…..

What job did you want to do when you were a child?
I wanted to be a nurse and I suppose I am still going down the caring route with my training as a nutritionalist.

Any holiday memories?
Martin and I decided to go away for a week to the Island of Rhodes. It was a total chill out on a hired a motorbike. I was riddled with guilt afterwards though and I still remember the look on my children’s faces as we left them behind with family for the week. We have taken them with us ever since.

What famous people would you invite around for dinner and why?
Barbara Wayne, the founder of the College of Natural Nutrition in Bristol, Bob Marley, the Dalai Lama and Van Morrison could give us a song.

What do you do for a special treat?
More than I realise when I think about it… 15 friends and I had a pampering spa weekend in Enniskillen recently. We love to go out and about in the campervan and as we have to test new food for our vegetarian takeaway business, it’s a good excuse to have a lot of friends around to sample the food. That is a real treat as we love cooking.

Favourite animal?
I love animals but couldn’t keep one, as I would feel guilty keeping it enclosed.

Biggest thrill?
The Dragon Khan in the Port Adventura Park, in Salou in Spain. The ride is the longest in Europe and the name is based on Chinese mythology. The Dragon Khan was the reincarnated spirit of the evil Prince Hu of Beijing. His fury was unleashed each time a human dared to climb onto his back….scary stuff…

Biggest Challenge?
Going back to school. I started from scratch seventeen years ago.

What charity would you support?
I give to charities that have holistic approaches to overcome problems. I give to Aware Defeat Depression.

The world’s most irritating/most useful invention?
Although I love the juicer, it does tend to be very difficult to clean. I have some great seed sprouters that are my favourite at the moment. They are glass jars with metal lids that sit on their side so the sprouted seeds don’t sit in water… they are very easy to wash…

Best birthday present?
I had a wonderful surprise 40th birthday trip to Paris.

Favourite past-time?
My daughter is really interested in baking at the moment so I spend a lot of time with her in the kitchen. We enjoy coming up with tasty new recipes for our take away business. If I get a chance I like to get on the bike and go for a cycle too.

Which period in history would you most like to have lived through?
For the music and the fashion, it has to be the 1960’s

What do you have for breakfast?
I have a fresh slice of lemon with inishOh! Water followed by porridge and green juice made from celery and cucumber.

Do you have a favourite cartoon character?
I love puppets…When I was young I watched Andy Pandy and the flower pot men.

What was your first paid job?
I worked in a chip shop called Wheelers in Derry when I was 15 years old. I worked until 1.30 in the morning and got paid 96p and hour.

Worst household chore?
All of them… I am not very domestic.

What is the best/worst piece of advice you have been given?
The worst is “Take these tablets.” The best advice was “Listen to your first instincts.”

Personal philosophy?
Live not to eat but eat to live… Natural nutrition fuels your body….

20 year anniversary at Malin Hotel

The staff 20 years ago

Postcard from the early 1960's

Check out their website for up to date information

IT’S SHOW TIME - MALIN HOTEL IS CELEBRATING


The Malin Hotel is holding a party to celebrate the twentieth anniversary of the opening of its Ballroom with a party… and there’s an open day too…..


First on the agenda is an Open Day on the 15th of March followed by a Charity Dance on the 16th. “We have two very special celebrations,” Madeleine McLaughlin, duty manager tells the Inishowen Independent. “The open day to showcase all of the impressive improvements and facilities of the hotel and the charity dance is to celebrate the anniversary of the Function room which has been opened for twenty years. We are also very proud of the total refurbishment of the function room as well.”



OPEN DAY ON SUNDAY MARCH 15TH

The open day, which will take place on Sunday 15th March, is an ideal opportunity for both the community and members of the public to come along and view the most recent refurbishments and check out what the hotel has to offer.


“The ballroom or Green room as it is known, will be fully dressed for a wedding day,” explains Madeline, “You will have the exclusive opportunity to view the extensive range of facilities the hotel has to offer including its superior bedrooms. Management will be on hand to talk about any requirements you may have if you are thinking of planning a wedding or special occasion. The Malin Hotel is very popular for weddings as we have different packages available to assist in the planning of your big day. Furthermore the Malin Hotel possesses an excellent reputation in hosting dinner dances, birthday parties and family functions. Therefore the open day is a superb opportunity to see exactly what’s on offer at the Malin Hotel and allow you to feel the atmosphere.” The function room will be all set up with wedding tables on the day to help create an insight into how the Malin Hotel can create a memorable day. The open day will be between 1pm and 6 pm.



CHARITY DANCE ON 16TH OF MARCH

The much-anticipated Charity Dance will take place on the following day, the 16th March, and what better time that the St Patrick’s day.

As I sit in front of an open fire in the bar of the hotel chatting to members of the management committee about the up and coming celebrations. One committee member, Gertrude Houton, highlights the fact that “The event is open to everyone and anyone, after all you can’t hold an event without people.” With me are: Anne Lafferty, Gertrude Houton, Madeline McLaughlin, Angela McDaid, Trevor McCallion, Bridie McLaughlin, Helen McDermott, Jacqueline Byrne and Hugh McColgan.

“I am sure lots of former patrons as well as staff both past and present will be there. No doubt there will be lots of stories and craic. It will be a trip down memory lane.” Helen McDermott adds.

It’s all happening in the function room

The large and inviting function room is called the Green’s Boutique Banqueting Suite. Older members of staff will call this room the Ballroom, newer members call it the Function room and more recently is affectionately known as ‘Greens’. Whatever you call the room, you will be highly impressed with the décor, as it has just been totally refurbished to a very high standard. It’s warm and inviting yet you can still feel the history and great memories that people will have of their special days and events. This inviting room will be hosting the charity dance and it is an ideal size, large enough for a grand do, with seating for up to 300 people, but still small enough to be intimate.

Angela McDaid, another committee member, highlights the three things that go into making a great party - “music craic and drink… and all of these will be here in abundance on the night” she enthuses.

And it’s all for charity
The money raised at the door from the €5 admission charge at the charity dance will be divided up between 4 charities.

EVERYONE WELCOME
Jacqueline stresses that the night of the charity event is for everyone and adds, “All of the committee and members of staff would like to thank everyone for being so supportive over the years and stress that the evening is open to all. It will be an evening of music, stories and craic and is set to be a great evening.

ENTERTAINMENT ON THE NIGHT

Live Entertainment on the night

On the night of the16th of March and for one night only some of the most popular and well-known acts have reformed and it is bound to be a memorable evening.
Martin McLaughlin “Hatter” and his band will delight the audience, Shane Byrne, Hugh McGettighan and Conal Haughey are all there to complete the line up. “They use to play a lot at the hotel and always played to a packed bar,” says Helen
Another reunion will see Shunie Crampsey and Liam McDermott who will all be performing live for one night only. Also joining them will be Leonard Houghton, Raymond Paul, Finbar and Anne Byrne on stage.
Local man Andy McGonagle will be giving a recital.
Later in the evening there will be a disco with Paul Callaghan.
Also on the night will be a special prize draw for anyone who used the hotel for their reception venue in the past for their wedding. But remember…….you have to turn up on the night to enter….


A BIT OF HISTORY

About the Malin Hotel
The Hotel opened in the late 1950’s with the McLaughlin family as the original owners. John F. McLaughlin ran the premises as a guesthouse with a shop at the front. As the hotel grew in popularity and size it was then taken over by Jim and Jean Grant. Martin and Bridie McLaughlin then took over the running of the hotel in 1978. Over the years the building has been extended without losing any of its charm. Patrick and Fiona Loughrey took over the hotel in 2002 and work closely with the General Manager John Keyes. Madeline McLaughlin, Angela McDaid and Colm Kelly are the duty managers taking care of the day to day running of the hotel.
The pleasingly traditional bar is a popular meeting place, and the accommodation is neat and attractively decorated. The bedrooms have phones, tea - coffee facilities and TV.
The hotel’s Jack Yeats Restaurant is earning a good reputation, both for the food and an informative and well selected wine menu.

HERE TO STAY

Loyal workforce
A happy workforce makes for happy customers and the staff at Malin Hotel are certainly happy. “When people come to work here they stay.” Madeline tells us. “ Even families come to work here. An example of one such family include Angela McDaid and her daughter Chrissy.
Helen is also in reminiscing mood when she tells us “Bridie and Martin were like parents to all of us over the years. It’s a very family orientated place”
The two longest working staff that are still here are Angela McDaid, who has been working at the hotel for 21 years and Hugh McColgan who has been here for 20 years. “We really love coming to work, everyone is so friendly to each other.” Angela enthuses.
When I leave them in the bar at nearly midnight I asked them if they were making a night of it… They said that they were stopping until the 16th…


MEMORIES ARE MADE OF THESE

Memories and humour from the past

Gertrude Houton recalls a comical yet near disaster at her wedding, which involved a dog, a coldroom and black forest gateaux! Kathleen and Susan can fill in the blanks.

Bridie McLaughlin, who was the previous landlady remembers a time when local farmers and workers would come in to the hotel to eat. “They would walk straight through the bar and into the kitchen and eat their meal around the family kitchen table. It was a home from home. There was a strong community base and it was like one big family all eating at the table together.” She recalls

Local garda lived in the hotel when they were working and would go home at the weekends when they were off duty.

The group also remember a big Labrador that used to sit in front of the fire in the bar. “ We can’t allow that now with hygiene regulations, but is was nice to see at the time.” Says Anne.

The Golden Oldie discos were always good for a laugh and ran for many years.

“It’s 20 years since the ballroom/function room was officially opened. Before this they had a room upstairs, in the main building,” says Angela McDaid, one of the original committee members.

The extension started in September 1988 and opened on March the 16th 1989.

“The first band to play in the ballroom twenty years ago was Mick Flavin and his band. The festivities carried on throughout the weekend with Ray Lynam playing on the Sunday night.” Says Angela. “It was a night to remember.”


HAVEN’T I SEEN YOU SOMEWHERE BEFORE?

Famous visitors from the past 20 years

Jacqueline Byrne the bridal wear designer stayed at the hotel.

“Jack Charlton was at the hotel a few years ago. Bridie McLaughlin remembers “It was a fabulous time, he was here to open the St Patrick’s Park in Carndonagh.”

George Best was at the hotel making a film for an American Country and Western programme.

The football presenter from RTE Packie Bonner stayed for while at the hotel.

Aidan Quinn and Connie Nielson both visited recently when they were filming the Shine of Rainbows.

Joe Pasquali (I’m a celebrity winner) visited recently.

Gerry Adams has stayed.

All of the committee members agree that a favourite visitor is Daniel O’Donnell “He is such a lovely bloke.” Is the general consensus “He even managed to spent some of his time sunbathing out the back of the hotel.”

Anna Friel, (that kiss on Brookside.) has stayed. Anne Lafferty tells us that her uncle and dad would have played their instruments in the bar quite regularly.

The Fureys have played at the hotel.

The very popular Irish singer Brian Kennedy sang to a packed audience in the ballroom.



LOVE IS IN THE AIR


Romance
There have been a couple of instances where romance has blossomed. Trevor McCallion met his future wife Sharon Houton behind the bar. Seamus McLaughlin and Kathryn Murphy also got together in the Hotel. – “We probably should have spent more time working,” Trevor jokes.



UNUSUAL EVENTS OVER THE 20 YEARS

There have been a lot of unusual events on over the 20 years in the ballroom.

The Ballroom was used as a nightclub between ‘91 and ‘98 and it was the most popular venue in Inishowen. “People came from all over the North West.” Helen tells us.

There have been a few ‘Fake weddings’, to raise money for the parish.

The Donegal GAA held their annual conference here.

Mud wrestling was a laugh. Trevor remembers the night. “It depends who you talk to about it being a good night. The men loved it but the women were not sure.” He ponders, remembering a few more details. “The company brought their own pools to put the mud in and supplied the women. There were plenty of men volunteering when they were asked if they wanted to join in…very messy”

Boxing and wrestling matches were often held.

Jacqueline tells us of the nights that the Hypnotist Barry Sinclair gave memorable shows. “He was an unusual act, but very popular.” She recalls.