The Eye ON DONEGAL
ISSN 2565-5981
42
9 772565 598001
€1.50 42 13th December 2018
Recognition for Eamon
Congratulations to Eamon Harvey who received the “Services to Coaching” Award at the Irish Life Health National Athletics Awards which took place last week in Dublin. Eamon is the driving force behind Tir Chonaill AC, and down through the years has been committed to helping participants of all ages reach levels in athletics which they could only have dreamed of. Eamon can nearly always be found on the track at the AVS, training and putting athletes through their paces and he has been described as one of the most influential and motivational figures in Donegal athletics. Photo: SportsFile
Wreath Making at Donegal FRC See photo page inside
Route Cleared for Wind Turbines
Customer Appreciation Evening at Sheerin’s See photo page inside
Work has been carried out at the Tullyearl roundabout to facilitate the passage of large wind turbines and poles which will be landed at Killybegs Harbour. The wind turbine company carried out a ‘dry run’ on the route from Killybegs to Mayo and identified a number of areas which could cause problems on the route. Roads Engineer for Donegal County Council, Mark Sweeney, outlined to The Eye that the work was carried out by a team of workers from the wind turbine company and the measures are temporary in nature and will only be in place for the time necessary to facilitate
the road transportation of the turbines to sites in County Mayo and other locations countrywide. “The Tullyearl roundabout had to be temporarily lowered to facilitate the over‑run of the lorries and also there is work ongoing outside Bruckless - removing poles and replacing them with underground cables as these could cause problems for the back end of the lorries,” Mark said.
PETERS Formal and Casual Wear
Danny and Bernadette Gallagher travelled from Ballybrillaghan for the night.
Book Launch in Mountcharles See photo page inside
manshop DONEGAL TOWN 074 9721270
The Olde Castle Bar & Restaurant CASTLE STREET, DONEGAL TOWN Tel: +353 (0) 74 9721262
Email: info@oldecastlebar.com www.oldecastlebar.com
Festive Menu 2018 Appetizers
Winter Warmer Chefs Seasonal Soup of the Day Castle Seafood Chowder, Homemade Wheaten Toonsbridge Goats Cheese, Honey Glazed Pears, Crispy Black Pudding Fresh Donegal Mussel Gratin, Garlic & Roasted Tomato, Parmesan Crust Crispy Prawns & Crab Spring Roll, Spicy Garlic & Coriander Dip Mozzarella, Vine Tomato & Basil Pesto Drops, Toasted Sourdough.
Mains
Succulent 8oz Irish Ribeye Steak, Portobello Mushroom, Grilled Tomato, Pepper Sauce Turkey Ballantine, Cranberry, Apricot & Sage Stuffing, Red Currant Jus Hunters Irish Chicken Supreme, Mustard Mash, Button Mushrooms, Pancetta Baked Whole Sea Bream, Lemon & White Wine Sauce Pan Fried Cod Cheeks, Toasted Almonds, Asparagus Gratin All main courses are accompanied by Seasonal Vegetables & Potatoes.
Vegetarian
Lentil & Kidney Bean Chilli, Roasted Peppers & Tropea Onions, Jasmine Rice Gubeen Stuffed Mushrooms, Roasted Cherry Tomatoes, Leek & Potato Rosti.
Dessert
Chefs Tiramisu, Tia Maria Mascarpone, Dark Chocolate Cacao Christmas Pudding, Rich Brandy Sauce, Fresh Cream Winter Berry Pavlova, Chantilly Cream, Black Berry Coulis Chocolate Box Ganache, Cointreau & Orange, Pomegranate Seeds Lemon Posset, Chocolate Shavings, Lime Jelly.
Congratulations to Naomi Montgomery who graduated with an Honours Degree in Music and Politics from NUI Maynooth. Naomi is the daughter of Philip and Joy, Ballydevitt, Donegal Town.
Available from December 1st - pre-booking only
BACK ISSUES
ATE IN BL LEBR AS CE
of every
CHRISTMAS LUNCH PARTY MENU CHRISTMAS MENU
Eye on Donegal
€29 PER PERSON
DE 017 CEM S 2 Mulled Wine BER welcome PARTIEdrink
STARTERS
are available
Order by phone, email or call in to Cavern Design Printing
€28.50
Roasted Parsnip & Chestnut Soup Fresh cream Homemade Game Terrine Pear, cranberries and green peppercorn chutney Killybegs Crab meat Lemon mayonnaise, warm crab claw in garlic butter on homemade brown bread Cauliflower & Caramelised Red Onion Quiche
Pay with cash, on the phone or online
MAIN COURSES
If you cannot collect we can deliver for you to the outlet where you normally buy your Eye on Donegal
Pale Smoked Cod Braised Fennel, Mussel saffron cream Blas Turkey & Ham Cranberry gravy Slow Braised Feather Blade of Beef Guinness gravy Barley Risotto Wild mushroom, herb pesto, parmesan shavings
DESSERTS Chef’s Christmas Trio Christmas Pudding, ice cream profiterole with white chocolate sauce Staged Cinnamon Panacotta with red fruit compote and sherry jelly Chocolate roulade with mocha cream
Cavern Design Printing, Castle Centre, Donegal Town
Available every day from 1st - 23rd December
TO BOOK CALL +353 (0)74 97 23011
Call: 074 9722677 Email: look@eyeondonegal.com
blasdonegal
A5 christmas flyer dec 2018v3.indd 2
04/10/2018 17:02
Chandpur
INDIAN RESTAURANT Unit 4, Main Street, Donegal Town
Christmas Party Set Menu Fantastic value four course meal with complimentary glass of bubbly and raffle prize for every table!
all for only
€24.95
per person MAIN COURSE PRE STARTER DESSERT Chandpur Poppadoms Butter Chicken, Choice of and Dips Lamb Railway Curry AND Dessert of the Day Garlic Chicken Tikka Chilli Bhuna, STARTER OR Tandoori Mixed Starter served with Vegetable Curry, Mixed Ice Cream and Onion Bhajees Pilau Rice and Plain Nan Bread. 10% discount on food only if booked midweek and in advance. Tables of six or more must be booked in advance. Vegetarian and European choices also available. Available 1st-24th December inclusive. Parties of four or more
DON’T FORGET OUR FAMOUS SUNDAY ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFET
1pm-5pm. €10.95 pp
EARLY BIRD THREE COURSES
La Bella Donna
OPEN: Mon-Sat 4-11pm; Sun 1-10pm
BELLINI COCKTAIL BAR NOW OPEN
Mon-Fri 5-7pm, only €15.95pp
TAKE AWAY SERVICE AVAILABLE
Twice winner of Best Indian Restaurant in Ireland
074 97 25452
www.chandpurdonegal.com
AWARD WINNING • FULLY LICENSED
Italian Restaurant
Christmas Party Menus Group Bookings available
PASTA, PIZZA, SALADS, STEAKS, CHICKEN & SEAFOOD Bridge Street, Donegal Town
Tel: 074 9725790
www.labelladonnarestaurant.com
First Responders Fundraising Cheque Presentation A total of €2128.00 was raised at the recent Coffee Morning at the Bank of Ireland, Donegal Town to assist with the purchase of a defibrillator for the Donegal Town Community First Responders. Pictured left to right: Roisin Gallagher, Bank of Ireland; Lizzie Csizma, Chairperson; Corin Cahill, Treasurer; her son Rex; Shane Connolly, Paramedic (committee member); Shane Browne, Bank of Ireland Branch Manager.
Pay and Display Revenue The pay and display revenue in Donegal Town is well up on last year and Mark Sweeney, Donegal Co. Council Roads Engineer, assured The Eye that any money collected in the town stays in the town despite rumours that Donegal Town parking money was being used to fund other towns. Part of the money this year was used to develop the thirty-five new car parking spaces up at the old fire station. Some also went towards the Christmas lights and Mark commented that since he has taken over he has concentrated on saving the money to purchase more car parking space and this is work in progress.
Launch of the Blas Bluestack Challenge 2019
The Bluestack Special Needs Foundation launch their biennial fundraiser, The “Blas Bluestack Challenge” Walk. The walk will be held on Saturday 8th June 2019 and as previous walkers can testify promises to be a very special day. The Bluestack Challenge Walk was first launched in 2002. Now, 16 years later, the Bluestack Challenge has raised in excess of €1.6 million. Approximately half of this money has been given through grants to local individual families for services and equipment, and to a number of external organisations offering
supports and services to people with Special Needs to enhance their facilities. The remainder has been invested in establishing the Bluestack Special Needs Foundation CLG and operates out of Bluestack House, The Glebe, Donegal Town. The Bluestack Special Needs Foundation does not receive any regular core funding from governmental sources. They are reliant on the generous donations of the local community and indeed the general public who kindly take it upon themselves to fundraise on their behalf. If you are interested in making 2019 that
year when you do something special, when you give back and when you challenge yourself and achieve something great contact the “Blas Bluestack Challenge Walk 2019” Committee or please contact the Foundation at 074 9740828. Registration will open online from middle of January 2019. Sponsorship cards will be also available at this time. For more information go to the website www.bluestackchallenge.com or follow the challenge specific Facebook page on “bluestackchallenge bluestack”.
Members of the Bluestack Challenge Walking committee Emer Haden, Wendy McCarry, Siobhain Taylor, Patricia Callaghan, sponsor Seamus Quinn, James McGroary, Vincent Callaghan and Fintan Gallagher, with staff at the launch at Blas at the Gateway Lodge.
5 Star Salon Fiona’s Hair and Beauty Studio in the Castle Centre, Donegal Town, has been shortlisted for the ‘5 Star Salon’ Award at the Irish Beauty Industry Awards. The event is taking place on 16th December in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Dublin Airport.
I would like to thank everyone that has come into the Salon since it opened, and for all the support I’ve received since coming to Donegal, I will be forever grateful. I would like to thank my Team that are all going with me to the Awards night in Dublin. I would also like to thank my partner, Jamie for all the background work. Fiona Fitzpatrick. Why not treat that special person with a gift voucher for Little Mamma’s?
A very happy Christmas to all our customers
Ice cream parlour in the heart of Donegal Town, gelato made instore, crepes and delicious desserts also available, all washed down with great coffee. The Diamond, Donegal Town (074) 972 3859
Quay West Dish Featured
Quay West Restaurant’s Debbie O’Reilly’s famous Wild Atlantic Silver Hake, Chorizo and Tomato Orzo, Roasted Red Pepper Emulsion main course dish has made the front page of ‘Yes Chef ’ magazine. A shocked Debbie said, “Massive thank you to our amazing team here at Quay West and to ‘Yes Chef ’ for the honour.”
SHOP LOCAL VOUCHERS • Think Local • Spend Local SHOP LOCAL VOUCHERS • Enjoy Local • Think Local THANK YOU • Spend Local • Enjoy Local
The Shopping Spree in Donegal Town turned out to be a resounding success for businesses and customers alike with the mild weather making it easy for shoppers to traverse the town. This year’s event included a more elaborate musical performance on the Diamond and there is no doubt that this enhanced the festive atmosphere over the weekend.
Forget me Not Craft Shop The committee would like to thank the following people and Begley’s Pharmacy groups for their assistance: The school choirs and musical Britton’s Pharmacy groups, an Garda Sióchana, Blue Poppy Dental, Quinn Kennedy Solicitors, Donegal Town Credit Union, Dr Alfie Aine’s Inspirations Mannion, Clive Carr @ Donegal Hire, Gallagher McCartney All Sports Solicitors, The Eye on Donegal, Tony McGuire and all our Digitel other business sponsors who contributed to the mega prize Peter’s Manshop draw. Rooney’s Centra A special mention to Cathal Boyle who without hesitation Doherty Tiles donates his time each year to this event. His civic spirit is to Dom’s Pier 1 be commended and his willingness to give something back Irish House to the community is an example to us all. Special thanks to the Community Chamber and the outstanding efforts of Joe Coyle the Christmas Lights Committee. It is these illuminations Financial Services that help keep Donegal Town as the primary shopping Harvey’s Point Hotel destination in the North West. Donegal Hardware Congratulations to the prize draw winners who shared in a Donegal Plumbing prize pool of gift vouchers donated by local businesses. & Heating Rosewoods Boutique Prize winners include: Henderson’s 1st Sophie Tracey, 2nd Ryan Hegarty, 3rd Ciaran McGarrigle, 4th Pauline Callaghan, Hardware a wedding that special 5thLooking Chris Joyce,for 6th Niamh Curran, 7th CaolanWant Morrow,to treatFour Masters 8th Imelda Haughey, 9th Mary Doherty, 10th Sharon Cox, or birthday present? someone in Bookshop your life? 11th Elizabeth Fitzgerald, 12th C McNearn, Diamond Store 13th Geraldine McGlynn Sandhouse Hotel & Marine Spa DON’T FORGET! McIntyre’s Service FREE PARKING EACH SUNDAY IN Station THE RUN UP TO CHRISTMAS
A Shop Local Voucher is the perfect gift.
A Shop Local Voucher hits the spot.
Holmes Service Central Hotel Shoebox Station Timony’s Spar Julie’s Beauty Salon Donegal Chirocare Zombie Dolls Tattoo Eske Pharmacy Sprint Educational Magee of Donegal Supplies Dunlevy’s Giftworld Keown Carpets Rory’s Auto Parts Parchment & Verse Pets R Us SuperValu Proper Price Tots & Tassels Toy Master Edge Clothing Toni’s Bistro Footsteps Simple Simons Cavern Design Michael Gallagher Printing Cabs Get That Trend Mill Park Hotel La Bella Donna Donegal Decor Restaurant Cara Pharmacy Argus Opticians Britton’s Jewellers Kidkare Fiona’s Hair & Beauty Cassidy’s Electrical Lough Eske Castle Olde Castle Bar Plan to hold a Walsh rafflButchers e, Marty E& J Oil sports table Donegal Tyrequiz? Centre Stella’s event or Kelco The Outlet Communications Eddie Walsh Butchers Specsavers Herron Auto McGroarty’s Electrical Euro Saver Stockhouse Furniture Abbey Hotel
A Shop Local Voucher makes a great prize.
Full list of participating outlets at www.thisisdonegal.ie/shoplocal
Looking for a wedding or birthday present?
Want to treat that special someone in your life?
Plan to hold a raffle, sports event or table quiz?
A Shop Local Voucher is the perfect gift.
A Shop Local Voucher hits the spot.
A Shop Local Voucher makes a great prize.
Full list of participating outlets at www.thisisdonegal.ie/shoplocal
Congratulations to Gareth Britton and Kristina Louca on their recent engagement.
HENRY of LONDON Special Edition Watch ‘Blue Moon’ LIMITED STOCK AVAILABLE
€135
AVAILABLE FROM
Britton Jewellers
MAIN STREET, DONEGAL TOWN Tel: 074 9721131 Email: brittonjeweller@gmail.com
Your personalised Christmas Greeting here
Send festive greetings to friends and family in our Christmas issue for the special rate of €12 inc. VAT. Contact 074 9722677 or look@eyeondonegal.com
Unit 13, Millcourt Mews, The Diamond, Donegal Town Tel: 074 97 22862 enrightaine@gmail.com
OPEN 28th, 29th and 31st December at 10am SEE YOU THERE!
Happy Christmas to you and yours from all at Aine’s Inspirations It’s not too late to get appointments ring now 0749723862 LATE OPENING HOURS: WED 19th; THURS 20th; FRI 21st until 8pm. SAT 22nd until 6pm
074 97 22862
/Ainesinspirations
Bridge work on schedule Work on the “Iron Bridge” is well on schedule
and
Mark
Sweeney,
Road
Engineer told The Eye that within the next two weeks there will be a massive change on works over at Tirchonaill Bridge. The steel work for the bridge is arriving soon and the deck bridge construction is expected to be complete before Christmas. All going to plan the bridge works are expected to be finished late in January and Tirchonaill Street will be open to the public by the end of that month.
Surprise visitor at M&N Launderette Staff at M&N Launderette on the Clar Road had a surprise recently when Santa and Mrs Claus dropped off his famous suit to be washed, dried and ironed ready for the big day later this month. Michelle Mahon, who started the business on the Clar Road 13 years ago, said that normally she does duvets, wedding dresses, curtains, football kits and general laundry but she welcomed this unusual customer and his special outfit. Luckily Santa had ample parking space outside for his sleigh and didn’t have to land on the roof.
Congratulations to Roisín Ward who received an Entrance Scholarship Award to DCU. Roisín is studying psychology in DCU and received this Award for her outstanding Leaving Cert results.
Londis Customer Appreciation Night
Anne Marie, Seamus and family would like to thank all their customers and staff for their great support throughout the year. Thanks to Seamus Sheerin for the photos.
Lindsey & Brandon, from Missouri, USA who were married at Slieve League recently by Rev Desmond Davis, Methodist minister from Dunkineely. Photography by Barbara McGroary, hair and makeup by Fiona’s Hair & Beauty.
Cliff top Wedding Wishing all our customers a happy and healthy Christmas and New Year
Vouchersrs& Hampe e availabl Open Monday-Saturday 9am-6pm
Chair Based Exercise Class
New January Classes with Physio Éireann
Funding secured for WiFi zones in Donegal OFFER 1 Feed 4-6 people
OFFER 2 Feed 6-8 people
Taking orders now for Christmas • All Gammon is low salt and home cured. • All beef from our abattoir and locally sourced. • Why not avail of our dry aged steak and roast?
Best value in town
074 97 22721
071 98 52260
Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas
Donegal County Council has secured funding under the WiFi4EU initiative and the value of these vouchers will be matched by the Department of Rural and Community Development which will enable the creation of approximately 34 public WiFi zones across County Donegal. The WiFi4EU initiative promotes free access to Wi-Fi connectivity for citizens in public spaces including parks, squares, public buildings, libraries, health centres and museums in municipalities throughout Europe. The vouchers provided under the initiative are to be used to install Wi-Fi equipment in public spaces within the Council area that are not already equipped with a free Wi-Fi hotspot. Brian Boyle, Head of Information Services in Donegal County Council, explains that “once these vouchers are received we will commence a process of determining suitable locations in consultation with the Municipal District members and which fit the WiFi4EU programme criteria”. He adds “the Council currently provides free WiFi connectivity within its Public Service Centres, Libraries, and Culture Centres and this WiFi4EU programme will now facilitate the rollout of this free WiFi service into other public spaces. This is an important step forward in the delivery of the Donegal Digital Action Plan and will contribute substantially to strengthening the economic development of our towns and villages and creating vibrant open public spaces.”
John Dowling An appreciation by The Rucker It is with profound regret that Donegal Rugby Club records the tragic death of John Dowling in Paris. The older generation of the club will have a rich store of memories of John as he was a prominent member of the club in the 1970’s. John came from the Palmerston area of Dublin and played his early rugby for De La Salle Palmerston (DLSP). He came to Donegal to write and lived up in Finnmore in a small cottage with his partner. When Donegal Rugby Club was formed, John became our unofficial coach and brought a level of specialism to the role that was previously lacking. He latterly became our under 18’s coach and brought the kids on regular trips to Dublin to rugby matches. Our senior team played its first ever tour match against DLSP and John was a very proud man that day. His brother Derek played in the front row for Leinster and I know John took great joy from Derek’s achievements on the rugby pitch. A skilful and athletic out half John was a fierce competitor on the pitch but off the field
he was a quiet and friendly man. I can still see John zooming down the road to training on his Honda 50. John had been working in Paris for a number of years and returned each year to Dublin where he taught for the Summer months. He always described himself as a swallow as he came home every year. His strong links to Donegal remained in place as he kept a holiday house near Leghowney. Tributes to John have been many and he has been described as a kind, respectable and gentle man. He was all of these things and many more and I am proud to have considered him my friend. The manner of his passing is particularly harrowing and our thoughts and good wishes go out to his family. It is said that a good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination and instil a love of learning. Certainly John inspired us on the rugby pitch and I am sure he inspired generations of students in the classroom. May he rest in peace.
DONEGAL FLOWERS g orders Now takinistmas for Chr
Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year Tirconaill St., Donegal Town
Tel: 074 97 22562
After hours mob: 087 633 1851 YOUR INTERFLORA AGENT Local and worldwide delivery
Your personalised Christmas Greeting here
Send festive greetings to friends and family in our Christmas issue for the special rate of €12 inc. VAT. Contact 074 9722677 or look@eyeondonegal.com
THANK YOU
Photo showing John refereeing an under 18 game at the Holmes. Photo: Kevin Sinclair.
St. John Bosco Centre
23 BIG Christmas
90
BINGO
Thursday 13th December Starts 9pm Books €10
This week’s jackpot:
7
€1,000
to go on the night. All line and house prizes increased and loads of spot prizes
Annette and Michael Mulroe wish to thank all our neighbours, relatives and friends for their support during Michael’s recent illness. Thanks to all who sent cards, Mass bouquets, phoned, called to the house and offered help. Thank you very much and a Happy Christmas to you all.
Making Fitness Child’s Play with rinka.ie
Give the Gift of Health this Christmas
1. Pool membership for the family. Whilst this may be a pricey gift, why not make it your family present and cut down on presents elsewhere? You don’t need to buy a full year but could start with 6 months and Saturday morning trips to the pool would be a great family activity as well as an energy burner. 2. Back to basics: Add in some fun stocking fillers like skipping ropes or hula-hoops, and space hoppers provide hours of energetic entertainment! 3. Trampoline: Consider investing in an outdoor trampoline or, if you don’t We are now well and truly on the have space, buy a mini indoor one. Christmas countdown and Christmas Pogo Jumpers are superb for shopping is one of those pressing jobs, 4. developing balance and are a fun that, for the majority of us, is just about way to move! to begin! It was at this time in our house that the Argos catalogue was out, 5. Gift vouchers for a class they have corners folded down and every second never attended before. item highlighted as the ‘best’ present 6. Pop a set of yoga cards alongside you could get! Every child has an idea another present and practice of what they ‘really’ want for Christmas different cards together at bed time. (even though that can change ten times a day!) and usually there is room for at 7. New coats and walking boots make hiking more exciting! least one surprise on the list. This year, why not include one active 8. Tunnel and Ball Pool: Great for indoor adventures and energy burning! gift for your children and start 2019 with good intentions to deliberately For more info on fun active classes for choose to move more daily. Here are a kids visit www.rinka.ie few fun ideas that will encourage your little people, and your family as a whole, Sarah Gillespie www.rinka.ie 087 750 9230 to engage in more regular exercise.
Christmas Greetings and Best Wishes for the New Year from
MULLIN’S Tirconaill Street, Donegal Town
€130 CHRISTMAS HAMPER TO BE WON in our Christmas Draw - plus weekly shopping vouchers
Grocery, confectionery, household goods, Christmas cards, decorations, trees, fairy lights, candlebridge lights and window silhouette lights. Christmas wrapping paper and 6m and 8m rolls.
St John Bosco Club HO HO HO!
Where has that year gone? It’s nearly Christmas and that means only one thing here at the Bosco - our Big Christmas Bingo Night is on Thursday 13th December at 9pm. There is a big night of treats in-store with all line and house prizes increased. A jackpot game of €1,000 must be won on the night and spot prizes galore. Hope to see you there. THE ST JOHN BOSCO CENTRE
If you are looking for a venue to hold an event then the St John Bosco Centre has a lot to offer: there is a spacious hall with stage area, there is also tea/coffee and snack shop facilities available by request. Outside we have a large private car park with free parking and we are situated a few minutes’ walking distance from the centre of Donegal Town. For more information please call into the office or phone Shauna on 087 3581568. BIRTHDAY PARTIES
The St John Bosco Centre is an excellent venue for kids parties, plenty of space to play, dance, or just have fun, bouncy castle available by request. Anyone wishing to book the hall or to find out more information, please contact Shauna on 087 3581568. To avoid disappointment early booking is advised as dates and times are filling up quickly. SATURDAY NIGHT DANCE
Next Dance - Saturday 15th December with Mary Ellen, live music and light refreshments. Dancing 9:30pm until after midnight. All are welcome and admission at the door on the night. ST JOHN BOSCO CAR BOOT SALE
Next Car Boot - Sunday 13th January 2019. 10am to 3pm. Doors open for booters at 8.30am. Only €10 a table for the day, for more information please contact 086 2187609. ST JOHN BOSCO CENTRE OFFICE
The Office is open Monday, Wednesday & Friday 9.30am to 12pm. Contact number for office during these hours is 087 7846012 or by email anytime to stjohnboscoclub@yahoo.ie
The Salmon Inn BAR & RESTAURANT Seafood a Speciality
Open Friday & Saturday: 5pm-9pm à la carte menu Sunday: 12:30pm - 7:30pm lunch menu served all day
Eske Pharmacy November Ambassador
taking bookings for ❄❆ NowChristmas ❆ Parties ❄
It’s our last look from the lovely Rachel and she’s going out with a bang using the Sosu X Keilidh palette. Absolutely LOVE this look.
Mullinasole, Laghey, Co. Donegal Tel: 074-9734040 From NI 0035374-9734040
Rachel is a hugely sought after MUA in the area and it’s not hard to know why. Whether you are looking for soft, natural makeup or full‑on Glam, Rachel is your girl. Appointments can be made with Rachel in Rossano’s in Donegal Town, but book early as slots don’t last long.
DONEGAL BAY TIDE TIMES Thursday 13th December
High Tide 9.27am and 10.01pm
Friday 14th
High Tide 10.16am and 10.56pm
Saturday 15th
High Tide 11.12am
Sunday 16th
High Tide 12.01am and 12.15pm
RACHEL DOHERTY
BROWS - Revolution Brow palette EYES - Sosu X Keilidh palette, Paese Art Liner gel pomade LASHES - Sosu Keilidh FACE - Note Detox & Protect foundation, L.A. Girl Concealer, Pressed powder and Bronzers LIPS - Jordana Ticia Lip Gloss Bon Bon All Products are available from Eske Pharmacy. Call in today to shop Rachel’s look.
Monday 17th
High Tide 1.11am and 1.23pm
Tuesday 18th
High Tide 2.12am and 2.21pm
Snapchat: Eskedonegal Facebook: Eskepharmacy Donegal Instagram: Eskedonegal
Wednesday 19th
High Tide 3.00am and 3.10pm All times are approximate and should not be taken as a seafaring guide
The Shortest Day
Winter Solstice, also known as Yule, is the shortest day of the year, meaning it has the least amount of daylight. The good news is that every day after that has progressively more daylight. This year, Winter Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere will be at 22:23 on Friday 21st December.
DONEGAL TOWN CREDIT UNION LTD., MILLER’S HILL, DONEGAL TOWN Tel: 074 9721293 or 9725727 Donegal Town Credit Union Ltd. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. www.donegaltowncreditunion.com
Christmas Wreath Making Workshop in Donegal Family Resource Centre
Christmas Wreath Making Workshop Group with instructor Mary Thompson A Christmas Wreath Making Workshop was held in The Family Resource Centre on Friday 7th December. Mary Thompson from ‘Thompson Flowers’ in Glenties came all the way down to Donegal Town to show some of the ladies from the Women’s Group how to make their own Christmas Wreaths. The Workshop was part funded by the ETB. Everyone at the Workshop really enjoyed the experience and thought it was very satisfying to be able to construct a Christmas Wreath to their own particular style and taste. When asked if it was a difficult skill to learn they all said that Mary made it all seem so easy to do. Some of the participants even said they were going to add more elements to their creations when they went home! At the end of the Workshop Mary was heading Mary Thompson Photos: Louise Histon back to her Florists in Glenties where she will be busy creating Christmas Wreaths, Grave Sprays and Planters for her customers. Mary is the mother of the famous Thompson county players. You can contact Mary on 087 9695053
Ann Sheridan and Laura Cunningham.
Sara Anderson and Eileen McGonigle
Annette Gallagher
Philomena Jeffers and Bernadette Dowds.
DENTISTRY AND ORTHODONTICS
11 Mill Court Mews, The Diamond, Donegal Town. +353 (0)74 97 40404 http://www.bluepoppydental.com
The link between heart disease and gum disease
Did you know that… Recent studies have found that there may be a link between heart disease and gum disease
Gum disease happens when plaque builds up on the they can treat you in the correct way. If you have one teeth when your brushing and flossing is not frequent of these conditions, it is important to keep your gums or effective. The plaque can harden, and there will be healthy, to prevent bacteria entering your bloodstream hard deposits on your teeth and underneath your when you brush or floss your teeth at home. gums. This is called tartar or calculus. The It would Gum disease can be treated by your dentist plaque and calculus cause the gums to seem desirable or dental hygienist. It is very important become inflamed and bleed, this is called to brush and floss your teeth properly. to optimize oral gingivitis, and if gingivitis continues for Your dentist or dental hygienist can health to minimize a long time it can worsen and become demonstrate the best methods for you the risk for periodontitis which damages the bone that supports the teeth. to clean properly every day. Professional cardiovascular The inflammation in your mouth may cleaning is advised twice per year for most disease cause problems with your blood vessels and people. heart, and when your gums bleed the plaque If you are eligible for treatment on your employment bacteria can enter your bloodstream which may also PPS benefits, you are entitled to a professional dental cause problems. cleaning once per year; you may have to pay a small Some people have heart conditions for which they need to take antibiotics before certain dental procedures supplement depending on your oral health. If you are to prevent the bacteria entering their bloodstream. a medical card holder and suffer from certain medical Their doctors will advise them of this, and it is important conditions, you may be entitled to free treatment for to inform your dentist of any medical condition, so that gum disease.
MURRIN FISHERIES (Killybegs) Ltd. Established 1983 Fish Sales FRESH - FROZEN - SMOKED
Call at our factory for all your Christmas fish supplies
Salmon - fresh and smoked Variety of prawns, crab toes/meat, scallop meat, seafood mix, mussel meat, etc and various varieties of fish for your freezer! OPEN Saturday 22nd 10.30am-3.30pm Sunday 23rd 2pm-4pm Open Christmas Eve from 11am-1pm
Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year ROSHINE ROAD INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, KILLYBEGS
Tel: 074 97 31362 / 087 224 2946
ADVERTORIAL
BLUE POPPY DENTISTRY AND ORTHODONTICS OPENING HOURS:
Monday 8-5 Tuesday 9-8 Wednesday 8-8 Thursday 9-6.30 Friday 8-5 Saturday 8-4 DENTISTS Dr Siobhan Murray Dr Orla McGroary HYGIENIST Susan O’Loughlin Medical Cards (does not include under 16’s) and PRSI accepted.
Thank you
THE DIAMOND, DONEGAL TOWN
TEL: 074 97 21232
Heartfelt thanks from Roisin Kelly, Drimark, Donegal Town
OPEN 9.15am - 6pm Mon-Sat
Christmas Luxury Lucky Dip you will Spend €50 in store and t from our receive a luxury produc x. Christmas lucky dip bo cember. De th 15 Taking place Saturday
FREE CUSTOMER PARKING
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Fatigue Physical and emotional fatigue can take a toll on the body and can be either the cause or the effect of other disturbances. Fatigue means lacking energy or strength and can be accompanied by: • Drowsiness (sleepiness) • Lethargy, Malaise or Tiredness • Weakness (including muscular weakness) • Lack of Motivation BODYWORK: Enhancing an individual’s vital energy, nourishing the ki, and strengthening the spirit are core components of a Shiatsu treatment. The Chinese philosophy considers symptoms of fatigue and exhaustion as originating from weakened
I would like to sincerely thank all the people who supported me during my illness in 2018. I was overwhelmed with all the cards, Mass cards and the many visits to Beaumont Hospital and Letterkenny Hospital. Your many prayers carried me through this difficult time. God clearly opened my eyes to see the goodwill and kindness in people. Thank you to Dr Mulpeter and his outstanding staff in the Rehabilitation Unit. I cannot forget my own family who were there for me at every corner. Fr Rory Brady will offer Mass for your intentions. I wish you all a happy and peaceful Christmas.
Shiatsu with Jack Voss organs. With chronic or mild cases of fatigue, the deeply relaxing effects of a bodywork session can help restore your energy and vitality. As circulation and lymphatic flow increase with compression techniques, ischemic areas are flushed with oxygen and other nutrients, and waste products are more effectively processed. Consequently, more energy is available to keep you healthy and revitalized. Specific techniques are designed to restore balance to the organs and the body’s vital energy. With regular sessions, the body is better balanced and able to restore its own energy levels on an ongoing basis. Call Jack on 086 2120329 to make an appointment, or contact him through Facebook at Shiatsu Donegal.
A Golfer’s Paradise
The Sandhouse Hotel and Marine Spa, Rossnowlagh, has received an award at the ‘Golfers Guide to Ireland’ Ceremony in the Druid’s Glen this week. Paul Diver, manager of The Sandhouse Hotel said, “We are thrilled to receive this award, the Hotel is an ideal base for the superb ‘links courses’ in the area.”
Ceol le Chéile Festive Performances Donegal’s intergenerational choir “Ceol le Chéile”, which celebrated its debut in July this year, has grown from strength to strength with 120 members performing under the direction of professional director Veronica McCarron.
Dunlevy’s
From the 1995 book ‘Donegal, Past and Present.’ by Joe McGarrigle. With thanks to his daughter Geraldine. In 1870 schoolteacher A.K. Dunlevy opened a newsagency and stationary shop in the Bridge Street premises now occupied by Miss Rosaleen Griffin. This was the basis for the now well established business of Dunlevy Distributors of the Diamond. Over the years the business developed into Fancy Goods, Delph, China and Hardware. In 1912 a branch shop was opened in Hugh Britton’s premises Main Street where Miss Sally Gallagher now trades. Then in 1922 following the purchase of Paddy Cannon’s property in Main Street (now Britton’s Chemist) the business moved there. During this period there was a rapid development into wholesale trading and around the early thirties space became a problem. When McLoone’s large premises on the Diamond came on the market it was purchased in 1936. It was here that Alec Dunlevy and his late wife Kathleen (nee McGowan) reared their family of five girls and one boy. It is not so many years ago that the majority of business families resided above the premises and there are many today who have very fond memories of being brought up on the Diamond. The Dunlevy family are one of the few remaining residents presently living on the Diamond. Today the fourth generation of the family trade there with Alec’s son Rory continuing with the business. The retail outlet, Gift World, caters for the local trade while the wholesale operation Dunlevy Distributors has nationwide coverage.
“The choir has been practising their Christmas repertoire for a number of weeks now,” says Mairead Cranley, Donegal County Council, who is facilitating the choir and says that the choir is very excited about the upcoming performances in St Mary’s Church, Stranorlar on Tuesday, December 18 and in Glenswilly GAA Hall on Friday, December 21. However, Mairead explains that it is not just about the singing saying, “the choir is made up of older people, children and young people, male and female, from all walks of life in Donegal and making friends and socialising is every bit as important as the singing.” To book tickets to these performances call Paul Duddy 087 1740285 or Paddy Devine 087 2237724.
Mountcharles Butchers Main Street, Mountcharles
Phone 074 97 35093
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FROSSES NEWS
with Colm Kelly
Well done to Roisín Ward from Drumbarron, Frosses on gaining a scholarship to Dublin City University for achieving outstanding results in her Leaving Cert in the Abbey Vocational School, Donegal Town. Remember the Frosses Golf Society Christmas outing is on this coming Saturday 15th December in Donegal Golf Club, Murvagh. The tee is from 11am and there are prizes for everyone. The Annual General Meeting will be held afterwards in Mohans Bar, Frosses where there could be jobs for everyone. Enjoy! It’s great to see the village starting to shine with the Christmas decorations going up all around the place. They add greatly to the special occasion that Christmas is. Good luck to the Mountcharles Heritage and Walking Club on their publication of Mountcharles Past and Present volume two which was launched last Thursday night in the Shamrock Bar, Mountcharles by the historian Helen Meehan from Coolum. It’s a very interesting read. Maybe we should try and produce a past and present in Frosses, could be a good Spring project.
AVS NOTES
DUNKINEELY NEWS A NEW BEGINNING FOR WOMEN IN DONEGAL WITH ‘WISE’! WISE is a FREE programme for women of all ages throughout Donegal, funded by the Department of Justice & Equality and the European Social Fund as part of the PEIL (Programme for Employability Inclusion & Learning 2014-2020). If you would like to get back into work, or take steps towards a dream career; if you need to up-skill/up-train, need a CV, cover letter or assistance to access employment / selfemployment and/or Education in your area; WISE can help you!
WISE can offer help on a one-to-one basis or in small groups. WISE is offering workshops on the following Topics: ‘WISE’ Workshop, Customer Service, Confidence, Personal Marketing, Basic IT Training, Job Search, Job Applications, CV & Cover Letter Workshop, Interview Skills. The workshops will be held in DCL. If you are interested in any of the above workshops please contact: Dunkineelycommunity@ gmail.com, Phone: (074)9737678 or get us on our Facebook page Dunkineely community Ltd.
LEGHOWNEY NEWS
with Nuala Toland
HOOLEY IN LEGHOWNEY HALL The Christmas Hooley in Leghowney Hall tonight Wednesday 12th December 8.30pm to 10.30pm. Music by “Out and About”. Hope to see you all out in your festive bests for a night of Christmas Cheer. Admission still €7 includes that lovely Leghowney Supper. All welcome.
LEGHOWNEY MARKET SPECIAL CHRISTMAS FAIR SATURDAY 22nd DECEMBER 10am TO 1pm Due to the great success of Leghowney’s Christmas Fair at the end of November and by public request Leghowney Country Market will hold a Special Extra Christmas Fair on Saturday 22nd December 10am to 1pm. This will be a great opportunity to pick up some last minute unique and hand-crafted gifts and Christmas goodies for the Festive Feast. Come along and enjoy a cooked breakfast as well as some stress-free retail therapy. HAPPY BIRTHDAY Wishing Esther O’Donnell Cassidy a very happy 40th Birthday - definitely the party that keeps on going. Lucky lady, enjoy it all Esther.
Beauty and the Beast We are now delighted to announce that we have a video of Beauty and the Beast for sale. The cost is €10. Please give your name to Ms Rooney if you wish to purchase a copy of this video before Christmas. Art Leaving Cert Art students are currently preparing for their Art trip to Dublin on December 19th to visit The Hugh Lane Gallery, The National Gallery, The National Museum and The Book of Kells. TY Chess An interclass TY chess competition will take place the week before the Christmas holidays. All four TY classes will compete against each other using knowledge on what they have recently learned about chess. It’s bound to get competitive and it will just be as successful as last year. A HEAR & DARE Advice Clinic for Leaving Cert students and their parents/ guardians will take place in the Villa Rose, Ballybofey on Saturday, 19th January 2019 between 10am and 2pm. See www.AccessCollege.ie for further info. Upcoming Guidance presentations taking place in the library: • GMIT, Thursday, 31 January 2019 @ 11.55 - 12.35 • North-West Regional College, Thursday, 07 February 2019 @ 11.55 - 12.35 Be sure to keep an eye on our regularly updated Guidance website. Go to www. AVSDonegal.com - click on the Guidance logo.
3 Irish Open Championship Titles for Donegal Town The weekend of the 17th November was a very successful one for local Irish dance school, Scoil Rince Tir Chonaill. The school brought home three Irish Open Champions, two of whom are sisters, Ruth and Katie Gillespie, and the third was Ailis O’Gara, all from Donegal Town. ‘The results are all called in one go at the end of the day and as the girls competed in three consecutive age groups; U19, U21 and U25 we had three champions called in a row. It was extra special for Ruth and Katie to lift the titles together and dance side by side in the parade of champion’s’ said their dance teacher (and older sister!), Sarah Gillespie, owner of Scoil Rince Tir Chonaill. Scoil Rince Tir Chonaill, which is based in Donegal Town and is registered with the World Irish Dance Association, began classes last year and has seen phenomenal growth and success since. As well as the three Irish Open Champions, the school had 10 other competitors dancing who came home with impressive results across all levels of the competition, from beginners right through to opens. ‘Chloe and Cara McCallig, Catherine and Mack Byrnes, Aoibhinn McGinley, Lucy McHugh, Jane Quinn, Lauren McNulty, Kelly Lyndsey and Aoife Doherty were the other members of the school to dance and between them came home with impressive
results, including podium finishes. This is only the beginning for these young dancers. For nearly all of them, it was their first time to dance in a major competition and I couldn’t have been prouder of them all. I am also particularly proud of my adult dancers, Aoife and Ailis. It’s not easy to come back to a sport having been away from it for a while
but these two are proof that you’re never too old to do anything you put your mind to,’ said Sarah. Scoil Rince Tir Chonaill offers classes from beginners to advanced, from age 4+ to adult in Donegal Town and more info can be found on their facebook page, or by contacting Sarah on 087 750 9230.
Tickets €23 available from Reception Doors open 7pm • Show starts 8pm
SuperValu Christmas Food Fair Katazyna, Natalia, Olga, Katie Bilyana and Kieran in the festive mood at SuperValu’s Christmas Food Fair. Photos: Margaret Gallagher
Paul Gallagher helps Sandra Elliot with her shopping Sean McMullin and Mark Meehan.
Karen McNulty, Grace O’Toole, Nichola Mahon, Emma Keating
Dr. Alfie Mannion has a sweet tooth A staff selfie Debra, Rebecca and Teresita.
Out for the evening are Bernie, Shane and Enda
Helen Doherty raises her glass to Supervalu with Marie Sweeney
Michaela, Kathleen, Olga and Mabel at the cake table
Kathleen enjoys the festive buffet
Some of the carol singers on the night: Mary and Nicole Gallagher, Aine McBrearty, Patricia Callaghan and John Shovlin
Looking festive in his Christmas jumper is SuperValu manager Gareth with John Smyth
Amber and Leona Dinsmore
Charlie Doherty enjoys the seafood from John Byrne at the Albatross stand The scrumptious buffet of hot and cold food on the night Breedge Curristan and Thomas Love sampling a taste of Moran’s jam from Gwen
Eugene enjoys the food with Danile, Vaidas and Tajus
Enjoying a cuppa are Noreen McGlynn and Mark O’Toole
A piece of cake for Mary, Geraldine and Andrew
Mountcharles Past and Present Book Launch There gathered a large crowd to the Shamrock Bar in Mountcharles for the launch of the second volume of “Mountcharles Past and Present” which has been published by The Mountcharles Heritage and Walking Group. The book is a collection of stories, poems and memories from Mountcharles and the surrounding areas. Noted historian Helen Meehan launched the book. She thanked everyone who had contributed to the book and also all the people who turned up on the night. Helen said, “this is a great way to get the history of an area gathered together”. There were many musicians, singers and storytellers in attendance who entertained the gathering for the evening. The book will be available in many outlets locally leading up to Christmas and it would make a wonderful present.
Winifred along with noted historian Helen Meehan and Kathleen Ayres. Photos and Story: Colm Kelly
Fiona and Adam.
Kay, Marie and Kathleen taking a break.
Folksy Gerry and Cathal Gallagher entertain the gathering.
Patsy, Kathleen and Jermiah, great supporters of all things local.
The McInaws along with Seamus Gallagher
Sean Breslin and Joe Harley discuss Ann Marie Dunlevy and Michael Boyle the upcoming council elections. Donal, Jason, Ann and Ethel supporting the book launch are delighted to be at the book launch.
Ann, Andrea, Louise and Winifred reliving the changing times in Mountcharles.
Donnie and Bernadine McCole along with Gerard and Orla Meehan.
Fr John Joe McBrearty An Appreciation
Pat the Cope Gallagher TD Fr John Joe Mc Brearty, a man of great faith and tradition who never forgot his roots in Bogagh, Carrick a lifelong labourer in the fields God chose for him.
Donegal Town Christmas Cards
Featuring exclusive original photos of Donegal Town winter scenes available in two sizes with special festive envelopes. 10 assorted with envelopes large €12, or regular €7.50. Single cards with envelope: large €1.50, regular €1. CALL IN TO CAVERN DESIGN, CASTLE CENTRE, DONEGAL TOWN.
Home Instead expands services in county
The home help care provider Home Instead has announced an expansion of its Donegal services with plans to create 120 jobs in the county over the next year. The recruitment drive began in Donegal Town this week where they held a recruitment fair in the Abbey Hotel and continues through five other towns in the county throughout 2019. Home Instead has been in Donegal for the last eleven years and has recently been taken over by Martin Murphy with the company’s office on Pearse Road in Letterkenny.
Many still need SVP help
My sincerest sympathies go to the Mc Brearty family and the St Joseph Fathers Community on the recent sudden death of Fr John Joe Mc Brearty of Gulf Port, Mississippi, USA and formerly a native of Bogagh, Carrick. I had the great pleasure of meeting Fr John Joe on many occasions and I knew him very well. He was a member of an extremely well respected Kilcar family. He is predeceased by his sisters Brigid, Anna, Mena and Mary and by his brothers Tommy, James and Hugh Benedict. Fr John Joe is survived by sister-in-law, Evelyn McBrearty of Bogagh, Carrick and his three nieces, Noleen and Carmel, Donegal Town and Rosemary in Hastings. After receiving his primary education in Ireland, he emigrated to Chicago and worked there for four years. In 1958, he felt a vocation call to study for the priesthood, and entered Epiphany Apostolic College in Newburgh, New York. In June 1968, he was ordained. Earlier this year in August, I attended the celebration of his Golden Jubilee of his Ordination in St Cartha’s Church, Kilcar, when the entire community gathered to celebrate the occasion with their native son. Each year in August Fr John made his return to Bogagh to stay with his late brother James and Evelyn. His Donegal roots were always strong and his heart never forgot the land that first nurtured it. Throughout his entire priestly vocation Fr Mc Brearty worked with the poor and disadvantaged, he championed the underprivileged and the less well off. He provided assistance and help to those who most needed it and who more often than not never received a helping a hand from either state or community. He was an innovator and an extremely hard worker – retirement for him was never on the agenda, as he worked till the last minute God granted him on this earth. The Funeral Mass for Fr. Mc Brearty took place in his beloved St. Therese of Lisieux Church, Gulf Port on Thursday, December 6th, 2018. A Mass of Christian Burial was later held on Friday, December 7th, 2018 at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana – a place where he chose himself to rest eternally. Eternal rest grant unto your servant Fr John Joe McBrearty – your earthly work is now completed, your good deeds go before and your legacy will be forever known amongst those you served well. Rest easy my good friend, reunited with those you loved dearly and that have gone before you.
According to St Vincent de Paul many families in Donegal are no better off now than they were during the recession. The sixty six conferences/branches of SVP distributed over €150,000 in County Donegal last year to help with the purchase of food and heating, illness, poverty and education costs. The Regional President reported that families and individuals who are unemployed or on low wages are struggling to meet day-to-day living costs and encourages those in need to get in touch, rather than get themselves into debt. The annual church gate collection took place across Donegal last weekend and contributions can still be made.
Little Book of Donegal The Little Book of Donegal by author Cathal Coyle has just gone on sale for Christmas. The book takes the readers through a colourful journey of the villages and historic towns of the County and the Wild Atlantic Way. It is a reliable reference book and guide which can be dipped into time and time again and is an interesting read about the heritage and history of our county.
Fr John McBrearty RIP with Pat the Cope when he celebrated his Golden Jubilee Mass in Kilcar in August 2018.
The Donegal Climate From the Ward Lock and Co’s “Donegal Highlands Illustrated Guide Book”, 1912
Donegal on its western front, is fully exposed to the Atlantic gales and is for the greater part, barren and desolate, though it does not appear to have been so in old times and possibly much of it might now be successfully planted. The winds, though high, are not as a rule cold except when from the north. The prevalent wind is from the south-west, a wet but mild quarter. The cold, indeed, is never excessive – the average temperature is higher in winter but lower in summer than in London. Weather records are not very widely kept but about 30 per cent of the possible duration of sunshine was registered near Donegal during ten years. May shows the highest and December the lowest average and while in Summer the rainfall is higher than in England, as a rule and the sunshine below the average, in late Autumn this is reversed. Thus in October there is often what is called a Donegal or an Indian summer. June is a pleasant month usually and it is in Spring and early Summer that the lovely wild flowers are seen in great profusion. August is frequently a wet month. The rainfall is high – this is about the third wettest district in Ireland – the yearly average being about 44 inches. Killybegs is higher – 57"; Buncrana lower – 41"; but this is much less than in the West of Scotland, parts of
Wales and other places, though much higher than in London or Dublin. The South of the county is more rainy than the North. Twice as much rain falls between August and January as between February and June. The rainfall appears to be least in April (1.6 inches) and highest in September (4.3 inches). Probably Ireland has partly got its bad name for rain from most tourists visiting only Killarney – one of the wettest districts – and in part from the fact that rain certainly does fall frequently; but the sun often breaks through the clouds most unexpectedly and there are on the whole in Ireland more days on which it is possible to be out of doors without discomfort than in almost any country. Thunderstorms are as rare as snow and ice and there are not great extremes in climate. It is ‘soft’ and equable but on the Donegal coast decidedly invigorating. The mean temperature is the same as that of southern England; the coldest month is March. Mr Hart, who has made a special study of climatology, stated that he very rarely, during many years residence in Donegal, knew snow to remain on the ground longer than three days and never knew ice strong enough to skate on, except in Derry which has a more inland climate with greater variations than at Ballyshannon
in the South. In consequence in all the sheltered valleys near the sea half-hardy and delicate greenhouse plants thrive so long as shelter is given against the chief enemy - wind. Indeed in the extreme north of the county, near Portsalon, there is one of the loveliest gardens imaginable with tree-ferns growing out of doors, rhododendrons of the finest kinds – Himalayan and others and all sorts of rare plants. The mean annual temperature here is 49° F (approximately 10°C). In Winter the thermometer rarely falls much below or even reaches the freezing point, while in Summer it rarely rises to 80°F (approximately 27°C) anywhere in Ireland. Derry has the lowest mean temperature of any place but one in Ireland. The coast of Ireland especially on the west, is bathed by the Gulf Stream. By June, Donegal Bay is 58° F (14°C) and in September, when most sea temperatures drop, there is no drop in the north-west waters of Ireland. In November and December, the temperature is about 50° F (10° C). A good many people bathe all the year round in the open sea. Picture courtesy of “Lynban”
Old Laghey Road, Donegal Town, Co Donegal. Phone 074 9722052 Fax 074 9722468
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Trades & Services 087 1749768 DESMOND KILPATRICK PROFESSIONAL CARPET AND UPHOLSTERY CLEANING
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METHODIST CHURCH CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL
Eske Pharmacy’s Tree
Brady Opticians have Christmas in their sights
Family Rules
Britton’s Pharmacy Christmas Messages Tree
Save Our Spire fund - one of the beneficiaries of the night. Photos: Louise Histon
Riah Hairdressing had the curlers out for their Christmas Tree
Caroline’s School of Music
Jennie and Sophie Deane relax after looking over the trees
Aine Clifford and Michelle Mundy
David and Dorothy Henderson enjoy their tea
The hardworking tea makers - Audrey Johnson, Adeline Friel and Matthew McNamee
Hillside Kennels had an interesting design
The Horticultural Class from the Adult Education Centre “grew” a vegetable tree
Donegal Flower Arranging Group - carnations on a bark background
Anna Pereira’s Partridge in a Pear Tree
The Mustard Seed - made up from coloured wool
Aaron Morrow’s “well planned” tree
Heart of RINKA Awards
Saturday the 24th of November saw the Shamrock Lodge in Athlone turn green and gold as it welcomed the Heart of RINKA Awards, a heart-felt initiative run by Donegal girl, Sarah Gillespie and her team of children’s fitness instructors from RINKA. The event was proudly supported by AIB, and Eileen Sweeney of AIB said it was “a privilege to be here, and see all these magnificent children and their parents. It is truly humbling and would make you realise how good most of us have it”. CEO of RINKA, Sarah Gillespie, addressed the crowd on the day explaining that the event was about celebrating the different capabilities, talents and interests each child has and recognising the challenges that the nominees face on a daily basis. “The award isn’t about being the best, or trying to come in first place. It is simply a day out to let these awe-inspiring children and their parents enjoy and to give us a chance to say we see you, we’re proud of you and keep going”. There were 18 children awarded on the day with over 120 people in attendance but the RINKA team were sure to keep things moving! “We had a disco, face-painting, oversized characters, a magician, art, a sweet cart and the most favoured part of day was the Heart of RINKA Superhero cape that each nominee was presented on arrival”, said Sarah. “We also had each nominee’s picture and story displayed on a wall of fame as they entered the room – the whole focus was letting everyone know who the ‘important people’ on the day were!” she added. To add to the prestige of the event, the RINKA team were honoured to welcome the inspirational Joanne O’Riordan to the stage on the day. Joanne, who is star of her own documentary, “No Limbs, No Limits”, and is a weekly columnist for The Irish Times, addressed the crowd about our choice to be positive, our choice to make the
La Bella Donna features in the Sunday Independent La Bella Donna Restaurant in Donegal Town got a surprise last Sunday when they opened the Sunday Independent. There they were featured in its ‘Life Magazine’, Food critic Lucinda O’Sullivan had included their Restaurant in her ‘Three to try in Ireland’ recommendation.
most of the life we have and our choice to focus on what we can do rather than what we can’t do. There were 5 nominees present on the day from Donegal; Cora McBride, Matthew Doherty, Oisin McElhinney, Jack Beattie and Aoibhinn McGowan. “It made it even more special to see a room full of Donegal people and we will most definitely be back again next year!” said Sarah. To see more from the event, visit https://rinka.ie/heart-of-rinka/
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WHAT’S ON…
DONEGAL TOWN
The Donegal Abbey Singers present their ANNUAL CHRISTMAS CONCERT in the Abbey Hotel on Thursday 13th December at 8pm. Admission €10. THE HSE RETIRED PERSONS GROUP are having their Annual Christmas Dinner in the Sandhouse Hotel, Rossnowlagh on Saturday 15th December at 2pm. For more information call 074 9723103. The McNelis Cunningham Boyle Irish Dance School present a ‘DANCING WONDERLAND’ at their Dance Studio ( behind Solo ) on Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th December at 1pm, 3pm, and 5pm. The show includes Santa’s dancing Elves, storytime with Mrs Claus, Arts and Crafts, and meeting with Santa himself. Booking is essential. €12.50 per child, €35 max per family. Contact 087 6852634. Donegal Town Basketball Club are holding a FAMILY FUN TABLE QUIZ in the Parish Centre on Sunday 16th December at 7pm. Many questions suitable for children (of all ages) and refreshments served. Donegal Railway Heritage Museum is delighted to announce that its famous CHRISTMAS SANTA EVENT is back again, bigger and better than ever before, Saturday 15th, Sunday 16th, 12noon-6pm. This cost is only €10 per child, and family discounts are available. There is no charge for adults, and even better, Santa has laid on free tea/ coffee and mince pies for the adults, but only if you have been good! As everything is indoors, it’s not weather dependent. No booking is necessary.
The Bank Walk Fairies invite everyone to their ANNUAL LAURA LYNN CHILDREN’S HOSPICE FUNDRAISER at 3.30pm on Sunday 16th Dec. “CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT” will be held in Rathneeny Presbyterian Church (on the Old Laghey road) on Sunday 16th Dec at 7.30pm followed by supper. Everyone is warmly invited. The next HOUSE OF STORIES will be on Wednesday 19th December in the Coach House Bar, Upper Main Street from 8pm - 11pm. All welcome. There will be a CHRISTMAS CONCERT in aid of Cancer Care West and Crumlin Hospital in the Abbey Hotel on Thursday 20th December at 7.30pm. Hosted by Zara Montgomery Music. RETURNING LIGHT - a night of music in support of Donegal Mental Health will be on December 22nd at 7pm in St Patrick’s Centre, Donegal Town. DONEGAL TOWN COMMUNITY CAROL SERVICE Sunday 23rd December at 7:30pm in Donegal Parish Church. With Donegal Abbey Singers, Tir Chonaill Youth Choir, and choirs from local churches. Collection for Donegal Branch of Alzheimers Society. Everyone welcome!
DONEGAL TOWN BRIDGE RESULTS, 6th December: 1st. Seamus Boyle / Marie Beaney. 2nd. Margaret Buckley / Kathleen Fox. 3rd. Conal Gallagher / Jimmy Mc Groary. Four Masters GAA Club are holding a CASINO NIGHT in Dom’s Pier 1 on Saturday 29th December at 8.30pm. Admission €20.
INVER ST. NAUL’S GAA CLUB are holding their Dinner Dance on Friday 28th December in the Mill Park Hotel, Donegal Town at 7.30pm. Music by DJ Kevin Furey. Tickets €30. KILLAGHTEE
BARNESMORE Barnesmore Community Centre are holding their CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY on Friday, December 14th from 6.30pm - 8pm. Admission is €5 per child or families €15. FUNDRAISING QUIZ for the Centre will be held in Biddy’s O’Barnes on Friday, December 28th at 9pm. Everyone welcome and your support would be gratefully appreciated. DRIMARONE & BLUESTACK CENTRE BINGO every Wednesday night @ 8.30pm. Check our Facebook page for updates on the prizes - www.facebook.com/bluestackcentre. drimarone CAR WASH & VALETING now available every Friday at the Bluestack Centre & Hostel. To book your car please contact 074 9735564. PETTIGO SOCIAL DANCING in the Termon Complex on Sunday 16th December at 6pm. Music by Paul Kelly, Bernie Kelly and Michael McGee. Admission £6 (includes light refreshments) Special Christmas Dinner and dance option available, dinner at 3pm, €20 per person. Booking essential. 077 54053819. The PETTIGO LUNCHEON GROUP activities for Dec. include: 18th - Intergenerational programme with Scoil Mhuire, 20th - Christmas Party. The club runs every Tues. and Thurs. from 10am - 4pm in Pettigo Health Centre. Pettigo GAA are holding their ANNUAL PRESENTATION DINNER DANCE in the Termon Centre, on the 19th January 2019 at 7pm. Music by the Vince & Ryan Turner Band. Tickets €30. ARDARA The Loughros Heritage Group fundraising 25‑CARD DRIVE will take place in Teague’s Bar, Ardara on Friday 14th December at 8pm. MOUNTCHARLES The VILLAGE CAROL SERVICE is being held on Sunday 16th December at 7.00pm in the Church of the Sacred Heart, Mountcharles. This is an opportunity for everybody in the village to take some time to prepare for Christmas before the real rush begins; to reflect on the readings of the Christmas story, to listen to some carols performed by the choir and join in the singing of some well-known congregational carols. The service will last approximately forty-five minutes after which seasonal refreshments will be served. All are welcome.
KILLYBEGS There will be a CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR in the Killybegs Carpet & Maritime Heritage Centre running until Friday 14th Dec. from 10am to 4pm Monday to Friday. Killybegs Mariners will be hosting a fundraising event in aid of Killybegs Community Hospital Patients’ Comfort Fund. An open to all BEACH COMPETITION on Rossnowlagh beach Saturday 15th December - fishing from 1.30pm to 5.30pm. Entry is €20 for seniors and €5 for Juniors. KILLYBEGS BRIDGE RESULTS Tuesday 4th December: 1st. Anne Murray / Marie Beaney. 2nd. Kathleen Fox / Margaret Buckley. 3rd. Sean Bourke / Mary Rouiller. The ANNUAL BOXING DAY SWIM will be at Fintra Beach on 26th December. If you want to take part, please find sponsorship cards in - the Tara Hotel, Sweet News, The Bay View Hotel and Curran’s Londis. Contact John Cunningham, Fionnuala Cunningham, Charlie Diver or Mickey Campbell.
There will be a Mock Wedding on St. Valentine’s Weekend and you’re all invited. It’s going to be the Hooley of Hoolies. As yet, the Bride and Groom are top secret, only known to a few close friends. All will be revealed in the Abbey Hotel, Donegal Town on Saturday, Feb 16th 2019. This will be is a major fund raiser for a new roof on the Church of Ireland, Mountcharles and the Bluestack Special Needs Foundation. Tickets are now on sale from the Abbey Hotel (074 97 21014), David Graham (087 6971646), Paul O’Sullivan (086 103 0989) or the Bluestack Foundation (074 9740828). Wouldn’t they would make a great Christmas present !
The Eye on Donegal is printed and published by Cavern Design Ltd., Bridge Street, Donegal Town www.eyeondonegal.com 074 9722677 look@eyeondonegal.com © 1993-2018
Thanking our Customers for their continued support and wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and looking forward to seeing you in 2019
A big thank you for all your support during 2018 and we look forward to welcoming you in 2019.
Rear of Britton’s Pharmacy • Main Street • Donegal Town • Tel: 074 9725799
Gardening with Emer
CHRISTMAS WREATHS AND POSIES When thinking of the most traditional Christmas decorations, the holly wreath is one of the first to come to mind. The holly tree was once considered magical as it kept its leaves throughout the coldest of winters. Since then the use of holly in Christmas decorations is very popular as they keep their fresh look for many weeks. The round shape of the traditional holly wreath makes them suitable to hang on walls, on doors or staircases. They can also make a lovely centrepiece on a table with candles in the middle. Wreaths have become increasingly popular for placing on graves over the festive period too. An alternative to the traditional wreath would be a holly arrangement or posy set in oasis. This opens up the opportunity to customise it to
Greene & Ganly Certified Public Accountants and Chartered Tax Advisers
Thomas Ganly FCPA CTA
BUSINESS TAX SPECIALISTS
as and Merry Christm ew a Prosperous N clients Year to all our
arrangements. Emer Campbell, FdSc Amenity Horticulture
Britton’s Pharmacy your family
MAIN STREET, DONEGAL TOWN TEL: 074 9721008
FOR EXPERT ADVICE ON ALL TAXES The Glebe, Donegal Town, Co. Donegal Email: greenetax@eircom.net Tel: (074) 9721940
your own style. Common foliage used as well as berried holly includes spruce, pine, bayleaf, leylandii and laurel. You can choose the exact size and shape you require and add any extra foliage, decorations or flowers that you desire. By using floral wire it is easy to customise the traditional holly wreath to your taste. Twist the wire around a group of pinecones and secure the wire around the wreath to hold them in place. Other popular additions include coloured ribbons, bows, ivy and cut flowers. Call out to us at Ashtree Garden Centre to look through our selection of holly wreaths and posies. We also stock oasis and floristry products to allow you to add a bit of your own taste to the
REN Skincare Promotion on Thursday 13th December, 12noon - 3pm Laura from REN will be instore for skincare consultations. FREE GIFT with purchase
www.brittonspharmacy.com
TRIPLE POINTS FOR LOYALTY CARD HOLDERS from Thursday 13thSaturday 15th
20% OFF
all tans and cosmetics* *(make-up stands only)
Body Shop Promotion Saturday 15th December 10am - 3pm Suzanne from the Body Shop will be instore to answer your skincare questions
FREE GIFT with purchase
Studio 5 happy elves
Santa with his sleigh in Dunlevy’s Giftworld
Christmas Windows around Donegal Town
You can ‘see’ Olaf in Specsavers
Carol singers in Begley’s Pharmacy Keeping a ‘watchful’ eye on Christmas in Britton’s Jewellers
This bear is going places in the Diamond Store
Welcome to a world of Christmas windows. Photos: Louise Histon The Nativity scene in the Four Masters Bookshop
Christmas tree in Britton’s Pharmacy
Polar scene in Argus Opticians
New Sunday Lunch at Lough Eske Castle Join us in Cedars Restaurant every Sunday and enjoy our NEW three‑course Sunday Lunch menu served from 1pm ‑ 3pm. MAIN STREET, DONEGAL TOWN
€35 per adult | €15 per child (13‑17 years) | Children 12 and under complimentary
Getting in to the Christmas Glow!
Reservations required
Tel: 074 9722656
www.skintherapy.me
For bookings contact reservations on +353(0)749725100
HOLIDAY SPECIAL: Mini Facial, Brow tidy/tint, Eyelash tint, Nail Tidy & Regular Polish
Lough Eske Castle, Donegal Town, County Donegal, F94 HX59 T: +353 (0)074 9725100 F: +353 (0)74 97 23762
– ALL FOR ONLY €55!!
Reservations email: reservations.lougheske@solishotels.com www.lougheskecastlehotel.com
Make your appointment soon!
The Blueberry EUROSAVER Tea Room & Restaurant
EST. 1993
Castle Street, Donegal Town, Co. Donegal
(074) 97 22933
(074) 97 23663
Chef proprietors: Ruperta & Brian Gallagher
APPROVED
The Blueberry is a family run restaurant. All our food is freshly prepared using only the finest ingredients and fresh herbs, and all our sauces, jams and marmalades are home-made.
DISCOUNT STORE
Try a Mexican Christmas party!
UNIT 1, QUAY STREET, DONEGAL TOWN
TEL: 074 9725728
MOB: 086 812 3760
IN STOCK NOW www.countrymusic.ie No. 1 Supplier of Country & Irish Music in the North West
Former Glenroe Actor dies
Actor Dónall Farmer who played Fr Tim Devereux in the RTE’s ‘Glenroe’ has died aged 81. Dónall, from Cork, helped found the Everyman Theatre and was a member of Dublin’s Abbey Theatre. He joined RTE in 1964 and became Head of Drama in 1971. He directed 50 episodes of The Riordans and also acted in plays and TV Shows including Ballykissangel. Dónall is survived by his wife Eileen and children Orla, Catherine and Donall.
LA FIESTA
Authentic MEXICAN Restaurant
Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday 4-10pm; Friday and Saturday 12noon - 10pm
MERCHANT COURT, THE DIAMOND, DONEGAL TOWN. Email: lafiestadonegal@outlook.com
Tel: 074 9742542
r a B s ’ y e v r a H & Terrac@e Harvey’s Point OPEN
7 DAYS A WEEK
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Fun Dining by the Lake • • • • • • • •
Live entertainment most evenings Terrace with views over Lough Eske Casual Dining & Cocktail Menu Speciality Coffee and Teas Funky Octagonal Bar Big Whiskey Selection Large Gin Palace Est. 1989 Craft Beers Open Fire Tel: +353 74 9722208 - harveyspoint.com
Casual Dining available 12.30 to 9pm
Killybegs
Celia McGee, Santa Claus (Tony Smith) and Anne Marie Leslie
Brid Campbell, Mary Doogan and Betty McDonald
Agnes, Annie and Mrs Friel
Fred Smith, Michael Melly and Maeve McGowan
Aleasha Bonner and Friends
Hilda Boyle, Christina Gavigan, Lena Gavigan, Mary and Matt Kelly Mary and Brendan Lafferty and Eileen O’Keeney
Care of the Aged Christmas Party Killybegs Community Care of the Aged Committee would like to thank everyone who helped to make the Senior Citizens Christmas party such a success: to the Tara Hotel, manager and staff for the lovely meal and welcome, to all the Band: Fred, Denny, Michael, Rosaleen and Kathy for the great music. To the McNelis, Cunningham & Boyle dancers and their parents, the choir, the O’Keeney sisters, Santa and Mrs Claus. Thank you.
Photos by Donald (Matty) Smith Facebook Donald Smith
Fr. Colm O’Gallachoir, Sadie McKeever, Ann Marie Leslie, Fr. Michael McKeevey, Celia McGee and Fr Dan McKeever Left: Aileen and Emma O’Keeney Below: Kathleen Hegarty, Rosaleen Boyle, Fred Smith and Denny Coleman
Junior, Catherine and Margaret McGuinness
Kathleen Furey, Frances O’Donnell and Eileen O’Donnell
Jim Boyle, Mary Murrin and Vincent McBrearty
Mary Breslin, Annie Brigid Boyle, Seamus Higgins and Paddy McGuinness
Bereta Breslin and Rosaleen Carry
Musings of Times Past
A CHRISTMAS IN THE 1940s …continued from issue 42
There was once a Christmas stocking, bright red, which I wanted so much. It appeared to be crammed with everything a little boy needed, a penknife, marbles, explosive caps for our six shooters and other mystery gifts. One of these was an Elephant hand ball, the best handball of the lot straight from Elvery’s; “chill penury repressed my noble rage” and I just crossed the street every day to look at it lovingly and dream. Mrs Joe Kelly lived next door to the barracks and was a great friend of my mother. I was in her kitchen one day and happened to tell her about the great Christmas stocking in Marie Claire’s window. On Christmas Eve I was upstairs in the kitchen in the barracks when one of the guards called up the stairs that Eamon was wanted. I came down the stairs and there was Mrs Kelly’s son Cormac, who would have been in his twenties, standing there. He took my hand and walked over to Marie Claire’s shop, paid five shillings for the stocking, and gave it to me. To this very day almost seventy years later no act of kindness has ever come close to the overwhelming unbelieving reaction I experienced on that day. I cried, I refused to accept it, I was only six years old and could never ever hope to be worthy of such a noble gesture. The giving of this gift
to me left an indelible mark on my whole being. Far from this being hyperbole, today I feel it was my first encounter with the deep-down goodness and generosity of the human spirit. Many years later I reminded Cormac of that day and in his own lovely way he professed shyly to have forgotten but I dearly hope he would remember as an older man how almost seven decades earlier he taught a little boy what the spirit of Christmas in it truest sense really means. We had also sent off our letters to Santa Claus, c/o The North Pole. One particular Christmas I do know that I had asked the great man for a Meccano set. These sets were graded from No. 1 to No. 12 which were the real Rolls Royces. Lo and behold I received a No. 6 - way beyond my wildest dreams. I fully intended to augment my first gift from Santa and after some years I would own the full range of Meccano and build all types of wonderful tractors, excavators and battle tanks when I would be sixteen years of age and Santa would help me each year with a more advanced Meccano. Night after night after saying my prayers out loud so they would be heard in the kitchen I would lie happy and snug in my little bed wafting off to sleep with nothing but Meccano in my head. The innocence of youth! Thomas Hood’s “I remember” comes to mind.
by Eamon Monahan
I think it was on this Christmas that the dry battery of our wireless had run down so my two sisters Noreen, Philomena and I asked Mrs Kelly next door if we could possibly come in to hear Santa speak to the children of Ireland on Christmas Eve afternoon. We sat agog and then magically, mystically our names were called and he, the great man, informed me he had heard I had been a very good boy and he would be delivering a Meccano set. I could hardly believe that this great big man could deliver toys to every good child in the country and remember that I, the least of beings, wanted a Meccano set. However I comfortably relaxed in the knowledge that there could be no question about it. He was Santa, he just could! Ownie Gillespie and his mother built our lovely little crib at the left hand side of the altar. Master McHugh who played the harmonium called rehearsals for our Christmas Eve mass choir. ‘Adeste Fidelis’, ‘Away in a Manger’, ‘Silent Night’, ‘Angels we have heard on High’ were rehearsed over and over again with some adventurous soul attempting a harmony line in ‘Silent Night’. Master McHugh pumped his feet valiantly on the consumptive wheezy old harmonium which appeared to protest with hisses escaping from its antiquated bellows.
Sean Murray, who sang in the choir and also had a little dance band in which he played the piano accordion, made a suggestion one evening that he might add to the musical sense of the occasion if he played his accordion but two of the older members of the choir, Willie and Ellie McGinty, were horrified. This would be sacrilegious Willie stated, and he caused a minor difference of opinion amongst the older members of the choir when he inferred that some ten years previous Master McHugh had played a slow and slightly disguised version of ‘The Donkey’s Serenade’ during communion. Master McHugh averred but Willie stuck to his guns and the upshot was the accordion was banned from The Church of the Sacred Heart. Jimmy was our village lamplighter and had added a few more street lamps for the occasion. The bungalow on the mount overlooking the village and Barry’s house directly below it had large red candles lighting as did almost every other house in the village. The frost crackled beneath our feet as if stepping on shreds of delicate glass and there was a silence on the street that particular night. Even as a little child I sensed the carols drifting as an incense through a village united in peace. It was a good time to be alive. Later that night we would head off as a family to join our neighbours at midnight Mass. I and my sister went to the gallery to join the choir. At midnight Fr. Rowan would emerge from the sacristy with about eight well-scrubbed and cherubic faced altar boys
all very difficult to pick out from the choir in the gallery as the oil lamps hanging from the walls left a lot to be desired in lighting. But what was lost in luminosity was more than made up for in the fervour of the people, young and old, on that special night so many years ago. Christmas morning was a morning of organised confusion in the house. We checked each other’s presents which Santa had left at the bottom of the bed as we slept. The excitement was palpable. My father on being shown each of our gifts would say “Boys oh boys” and “isn’t Santa the Dickens”, expressions of wonderment seldom heard in today’s world. Then it was a mad dash out onto the street to see what Santa had brought to all of my pals. Paul Gallagher might have a cowboy outfit; Eugene O’Boyle a train set; Conal Cunningham a little tricycle. Two or three of the boys would have received cowboy suits complete with gun, holster and little explosive caps which gave off a bang when the trigger was pulled. They would assume the names of Roy Rogers, Gene Autrey or Hopalong Cassidy
and saunter through the village holster and gun tied to trouser legs, cowboy hat slouched over forehead, loaded guns at the ready, Sheriff ’s badge pinned to left breast and these desperados were ready to see law and order enforced through the barrel of a gun if necessary in this lawless outpost that was Mountcharles. Then as hunger pangs beckoned we would head off to our homes for the Christmas dinner. There were six in our family, four girls and two boys, of which I was the younger. My older brother Sean would at this stage have outgrown Santa but would never dream of breaking the spell of Santa and his Christmas travels. My father sat at the top of the table and carved the turkey. Each of the girls had the job of bringing the Brussels sprouts, roast potatoes, stuffing and gravy. We wore coloured hats and blew up at the two paper bells which my mother had hung over the table and laughed as the bells swayed to and fro. Holding up the ‘Pope’s nose’ which was always the preserve of the head of the house, he exclaimed “Hitler and Lord Haw Haw don’t have as fine a dinner as this in front of them today. But sure, Christmas Day would mean nothing to those heathens”. “Mind your tongue Daddy”, Mammy said and we all proceeded to enjoy the best dinner of the year on the holiest day of the year. Turkey and Christmas pudding laced with custard over we would move to the old Collard and Collard piano my mother played as we each sang our Christmas songs and party pieces. My father’s two songs were ‘Annie Laurie’ and ‘The Queen of Connemara’. Noreen, the most advanced musically, would play ‘The Robin’s Return’ and the ‘Rustle of Spring’ and as Christmas Day lengthened into night the streets were oh so quiet as each family came closer to each other – mothers, fathers and children in this little idyll of a village clinging to a hill over Donegal Bay during the 1940s which we Irish at a time euphemistically called The Emergency those almost eighty years ago. We in the Eye on Donegal would like to thank Eamon for his fascinating glimpses into life in Mountcharles in his youth - and wish him a very happy and holy Christmas.
Leghowney Community Hall
Your personalised Christmas Greeting here
Send festive greetings to friends and family in our Christmas issue for the special rate of €12 inc. VAT. Contact 074 9722677 or look@eyeondonegal.com
Bishop to Retire The Church of Ireland Bishop of Derry and Raphoe, Rt. Rev. Ken Good has announced his retirement. He is to retire in May next year. Bishop Good who is 66, was consecrated on the 11th June 2002.
Donegal Abbey Singers Christmas Celebration Donegal Abbey Singers Annual Christmas Concert - don’t miss it. Christmas is not complete without choral singing, so come and join us for a joyful celebration of the season with well known carols and songs that span the ages. The choir will perform its Annual Christmas Concert in the Abbey Hotel on Thursday 13th December at 8pm (doors open 7.30pm). This year we are delighted, once again, to be joined by members of the talented Tir Chonaill Youth Choir. Admission €10. Tickets available at the door. Proceeds of this year’s raffle will go to the Donegal Town Churches.
Christmas Remembrance Tree Proceeds
from
the
Christmas
Remembrance Tree in St. Naul’s Church, Ardaghey, is going to Ardaghey Pipe Band. Names of deceased can be put on sheets in Cassidy’s Shop, Post Office and Rising Tide. Thank You. The information in the “Eye on Donegal” is carefully researched and believed to be accurate but the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors or omissions. Advertisements within the publication are not endorsed by the publisher. Neither are any claims made within the advertisements.
www.eyeondonegal.com
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© 1993-2018
Hooley Supporting Charities through the year During 2018 the Hooley in Leghowney Hall made cash donations to local and national charities totalling €2,360. The charities which benefited during the year were: SVP - Society of St. Vincent de Paul Ireland, Special Olympics Ireland, Transition Year Trip to Lourdes, Kalkota The Hope Foundation Schools Project, Jigsaw (Youth Mental Health Support), Donegal Town Community Band, Oncology Unit Letterkenny Hospital and Donegal Hospice. All these donations were most gratefully appreciated by all the recipients. Sincere thanks to all who come out and support so loyally each month. Also, many thanks to all bakers, supper suppliers and helpers who keep the show on the road. May we be the first to wish all our friends and supporters a very Merry Christmas and many more great Hooley Nights in 2019!
FATIMA 2019 The annual Raphoe Diocesan Pilgrimage to Fatima will depart Dublin on 15th July 2019 - 7 nights Hotel Avenida (Full Board). Cost €769 per person sharing plus insurance. Single room supplement €25 per night. Free bus Letterkenny - Dublin Airport return. For details contact Parish Office, Bruckless on 074 9737015. Pilgrimage organiser: Pilgrimages Abroad, Lauri Duffy Travel 01 6359300.
Carols by Candlelight
The Village Carol Service is being held on Sunday 16th December at 7.00pm in the Church of the Sacred Heart, Mountcharles. This is an opportunity for everybody in the village to take some time to prepare for Christmas before the real rush begins; to reflect on the readings of the Christmas story, to listen to some carols performed by the choir and join in the singing of some well-known congregational carols. The service will last approximately forty-five minutes after which seasonal refreshments will be served. All are welcome.
A Thank You
Donegal Methodist Church would like to say a huge and warm thank you to all who came along to, and made donations at, our Christmas Tree festival. You helped to make it a wonderful event. Putting the festival together is one thing but it takes people turning up for it to really come to life - so once again thank-you. We would also like to express our gratitude to the volunteers from Donegal Church of Ireland, the Family Resource Centre and (of course) our own congregation for all the work they undertook through the week, from setting up, to cleaning up; from bringing traybakes to serving coffee and tea. It was a super help and great team effort. Finally, thank-you, to all those who submitted trees and took so much time putting thought and effort into them. The diversity of the festival display speaks powerfully to the diversity of the human mind that comes up with so many different designs and concepts based on a Christmas tree. God bless you and may we praise His name this Christmas. Rev. John
KILLYBEGS CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICES St. Mary’s: Wed. 12th December 7pm Advent Reconciliation Service Monday 17th December 7pm
RATHNEENY CAROL SERVICE Candlelight Carol Service with supper on 16th December in Rathneeny Presbyterian Church at 7.30pm.
LAGHEY BARR MASS
Mass will be celebrated in St. Colmkille’s Chapel, Laghey Barr on Christmas Day at 10.30am.
Christmas Mass Novena
Nine masses beginning Christmas Day, Ardaghey. Christmas Novena Mass cards available from Fr. Morty O’Shea, if you wish to enrol loved ones in masses and also purchase Novena Christmas cards. Suggested donation for card and enrolment is €3. Money raised will be used to support missions and formation of seminarians. Praying Our Lord's blessings on all.
In Memoriam Church Times St Patrick’s, Donegal Town
Saturday 6pm; Sunday 9am and 11.30am St. Agatha’s, Clar Saturday 6.30pm; Sunday 10.30am St. Mary’s Killymard Saturday 7pm; Sunday 11am Franciscan Friary Rossnowlagh Saturday 7.30pm; Sunday 11am. Sacred Heart Church, Mountcharles Saturday 6.30pm; Sunday 11am St Mary’s Church, Frosses Saturday: 7pm; Sunday 10am Holy Redeemer Church, Drimarone Sunday 9.30am St. Naul’s Church, Ardaghey Saturday 6pm; Sunday 11.30am St Joseph & St Conal Church, Bruckless Saturday 6.30pm; Sunday 11am St. Mary’s Church, Killybegs Sundays 9am and 11am St. Bridget’s Church, Ballintra Saturday 6.30pm; Sundays 11am Presbyterian Church, Donegal Town Sunday 11.30am (Tea / Coffee from 11am) Methodist Church Ballintra: 10.30am Donegal: 12 noon Inver: 3pm Ballintra: 7pm - Candlelight Service Dunkineely: 10.30am Ardara: 12 noon Ardara: Christmas Carol Service Church of Ireland Killymard: 9.30am Laghey: 10.45am Donegal Town: 12 noon Killybegs: 9.15am Killaghtee: 10.45am Carol Service Inver/Mountcharles: 4pm Carol Service with Nativity in Inver Church Monday 17th December Inver: 7.30pm - Advent Reflection Donegal Living Hope Church, Old Laghey Road, Donegal Town 7.30pm Wednesday (Bible Study) 11.30am Sunday
Apologies if we have omitted any church times. If you would like to see details of other church services in the Eye on Donegal please phone 074 9722677 or email: look@eyeondonegal.com
10th ANNIVERSARY
1st ANNIVERSARY
5th Anniversary
MITCHELL MARGARET (META) Bridgetown.
In loving memory of a dear mother and grandmother who passed away on 12th December 2013.
DESSIE HEGARTY
PEGGY HEGARTY
Marian Villas, Donegal Town, Co. Donegal
Your going was our great sorrow, Our deepest pain, We miss your gentle presence and the steadfast love which embraced us, The countless ways you showed your loving care. Your faith and courage will always be our inspiration. We cling to our treasured memories And keep you close to our hearts. United in spirit and in prayer We will keep the link of love alive Until we meet again.
Our hearts are full of memories, With love we speak your name, Our lives go on without you, But nothing feels the same. We talk about you often, Of things you’ve said and done, We have such lovely memories, But we wish we still had you. Sadly missed by your son Ezra, daughter-inlaw Muriel, grandsons Victorjoe and Drew. 5th Anniversary
MITCHELL MARGARET (META) Bridgetown.
Dearly loved and remembered by their children, Mary, Gerard, John, Fidelma, Aidan and Brona, daughter-in-law Grace, sons-inlaw Aiden, Vernon and Didier, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
God called your name so softly, And only you could hear. And no-one heard the footsteps, Of Angels drawing near. The Golden gate did open, God saw you needed rest, His Garden must be beautiful, He only takes the best.
Anniversary Mass for Dessie and Peggy will be held at St. Mary’s Church, Killymard on Saturday 5th January 2019 at 7pm.
Always remembered by your son Jonathan, daughter-in-law Pauline, grand-daughters Wendy and Charlene and their families.
Rest in Peace.
DONEGAL TOWN COMMUNITY CAROL SERVICE
Sunday 23rd December at 7:30pm in Donegal Parish Church. With Donegal Abbey Singers, Tir Chonaill Youth Choir, and choirs from local churches. Collection for Donegal Branch of Alzheimers Society. Everyone welcome!
Dear Sacred Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favours, this time I ask You this special one (mention favour). Take it dear Heart of Jesus and place it in Your own broken heart, where our Father sees it, then in His merciful eyes it will become Your favour, not mine. Amen.
Say this prayer for 3 days and promise publication and the favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. M.G.
M. McGROARTY Monumental Sculptor Ltd. HEADSTONES, STONE CUTTING AND RENOVATION WORK
Recent Deaths
Memorials
JOHN GALLAGHER, Croaghlin, Killybegs. PATRICIA GIBBONS, Corandulla, Galway and formerly of Main Street, Ballintra. BRIGID BROGAN, Tullynaha, Letterbarrow.
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ANNIE CAMPBELL, Ardeskin Heights, Donegal Town, formerly of Meenawilderg and Dublin. GERRY GILLIGAN, Parkhill, Ballyshannon. NORA CUNNINGHAM, Stormhill, Ardara. Ar dheis Dé go raibh siad.
LATIN MASS
St. Patrick’s Church, Drumkeen Every Sunday at 10am (English Mass Sunday at 11.30am)
The Glen, Mountcharles, Co. Donegal Tel: 074 9735318 Mobile: 087 2362612 E-mail: mmgstone@eircom.net Website: www.mcgroartystone.ie
All types of Memorial Cards printed. Please contact us for our current Brochure, Price List and Samples. Phone: 074 97 22677 Email: printing@caverndesign.com
EYE on SPORT
Donegal Town FC Notes Saturday Team - The Saturday Team drew nil nil with Glencar Celtic in a top of the table clash in Rathmullan on Saturday afternoon. It was a game played in tough conditions but the boys showed great spirit and fight to earn what could prove to be a crucial point later on in the season. Strand Rovers moved a point clear at the top after the weekend fixtures, but it is very much ‘game on’ for the rest of the season when action resumes after Christmas. Sunday Team - The Sunday Team suffered a disappointing defeat away to Castlefin Celtic at the weekend. The boys lost out to the Finn by a single goal for the third time this season, although their display on Sunday certainly deserved a point if not all three. Castlefin hit the front early and were two goals ahead in the first twenty minutes. Barry Mulligan got the Town back into the game but Castlefin restored their two goal
advantage shortly after and it was three one at the break. Donegal got back into things after the restart when Ben Sweeney pulled another one back and despite constant pressure in the remaining half hour, Castlefin were able to hold on for the win. A solid campaign so far and Paul McHugh and his men will be looking to charge up the table in the new year, as they still have a few games in hand on those around them. Christmas Draw – Our Christmas Draw tickets are now on sale and available from all members. The top prize is €1000 and we have many more excellent prizes kindly sponsored by local businesses. The draw is our primary fundraiser of the year and all your support is greatly appreciated. Any families with tickets can drop them back to their coaches during training times or leave them with Marty Kelly at The Diamond Centre where tickets are on sale.
St Nauls Notes
NURSERY Nursery continues on Saturday morning at 10 am in Inver Community Centre. All children between the ages of 6 and 10 yrs are welcome. DINNER DANCE The Annual Club Dinner Dance will be taking place on Friday December 28th in the Mill Park Hotel. Tickets are €30 and available from Executive members. 5KM FUN RUN/WALK The Annual 5Km Boxing Day run and walk will take place at 11am from the Club House. All welcome. SLOTTO Slotto from 24/11/2018, numbers 2 1 3 7 4 5 6 - €80 won by Chris Darby. Slotto from 1/12/2018, numbers 4 1 6 5 2 3 7 - €80 won by Pat Boyle. Jackpot next week is €3,520.
Naomh Ultan
AVS U16 Boys basketball The U16 team played against St Nathy’s away in the North West Regional Final last Monday. It was a tight game the whole way through the game. Abbey got ahead by 2 points and the start of the game, it was a basket for basket game up until the last few minutes when St Nathy’s pulled ahead and won the game 47 to 45. It was a very strong performance by all players and they were very unlucky to lose out in the end. Ultan O’Grady finished the game as the top scorer.
Bluestack Ramblers Calendar
The Bluestack Ramblers membership: Family €35; Single €25; Daily €5. Basic equipment required for all walks: walking boots, waterproof clothing, cap and gloves, spare dry clothes, food and water, spare food. Recommended for regular/ experienced walkers: Map, compass, survival bag, first aid kit, whistle, sun protection, mobile phone. NO DOGS ALLOWED ON CLUB WALKS
Applications for the Senior and Reserve Manager’s post should be with Secretary Stephanie Kyles: 087 630757 on or before December 17th 2018. There was no winner of the Royal Flush Jackpot. Numbers drawn were: 8, 20, 23, 24. Consolation prizes went to: Sarah McCloskey, Meenabrock; Roy Adair, Gilbertstown; Patrick White, Mill Road. Jackpot next week: €4,060. Thank you for your support. The Club’s 25 Card Drive has resumed for the winter months and is held on Wednesday evenings, in Mary Murrins, from 9pm. New card players welcome. Royal Flush tickets can be bought in Floyd’s Convenience Store, Baskin’s Café and Barry’s Spar, Bruckless. Bingo in clubhouse every Friday night at 9pm. Everybody’s welcome!
Four Masters Notes
Club Lotto: There was no winner of the lotto jackpot €8,400 in week 22 of the 2018/19 season draw held in the Abbey Hotel on Monday 10th December. The €50 winners in the lucky dip were Ian McKenna, Gortloskey and Cathal McGonigle, Ballyboyle. The numbers drawn were 2, 14, 15 & 24. Congratulation to all winners. The next draw takes place on Monday 17th December. Renew subscriptions: the club would ask all persons that are members of our lotto to pay annual subscription to sellers or to treasurer Paul Timoney 087 2791305. New members are welcome with quarterly and half yearly subscription. AGM The reconvened Four Masters AGM will take place in Dom’s Pier 1 on Friday night 14th December at 8pm; all welcome.
EYE on SPORT
Murvagh Ladies Christmas party The ladies of Donegal Golf Club, Murvagh turned out in their colourful Christmas scarves, many of them home creations, on Saturday 8th December to celebrate the Christmas Season and welcome their new Lady Captain Mairin McCartney as she officially took up her new position. The clubhouse was festively decorated for this special occasion by the ladies. The delicious food was enjoyed by one and all. A wonderful evening of fun, laughter, “craic” and song was enjoyed by all those present. €360 was collected for County Donegal Parents & Friends of People with Intellectual Disability CLG which is a voluntary
Rossanos 1st Mary Walsh gets her prize from Lady Captain Mairin McCartney.
organisation founded in 1965 and run predominantly by parents of children with special needs. Lady Captain Mairin thanked all the ladies present on the day for their generous donations. She also thanked the catering staff for the lovely meal and the bar staff for the service. Prizes presented on the day were as follows: 15 hole competition sponsored by Rossanos. 1st Mary Walsh (18) 31 pts; 2nd Dorothy Woods (13) 27 pts; 3rd Mary Talbot (18) 26 pts. Rosemary Carr was presented with the 2018 Medal Trophy.
Rossanos 2nd Dorothy Woods.
Murvagh Ladies Winter League winners.
Rossanos 3rd Mary Talbot.
The annual Winter League was keenly contested over a 5 week period with teams vying for the top prize. With only 2 points to spare the eventual winners were “Team Callaway” with a score of 259 and included: Mary Talbot, Carmel Brennan, Sheila Davin, Patricia McGlinchey, Mary Harley and Mary Bonner. Runners up were Team Pinnacle with a score of 257 and included Miriam Bennett, Marie Cassidy, Gillian O’Callaghan, Margaret Johnson, Kathleen Fox and Mary Thomas. NOLLAIG SHONA DAOIBH GO LÉIR!
2018 medal winner Rosemary Carr.
Murvagh Ladies Winter League 2018 runners up.
Car Loans REDUCED RATE
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Special Rate Available from 01/11/2018 to 28/02/2019
For a €10,000, 5 year variable loan with weekly repayments of €45.86 and an interest rate of 6.7% (APR 6.93%), the total amount repayable will be €11,739.67. Your loan will be assessed in line with your repayment capacity. Terms and conditions Apply. Donegal Town Credit Union Ltd. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.
DONEGAL TOWN CREDIT UNION