August 15 digital

A weekly insight into the people and places that make Inishowen great

People eninsula

Inishowen’s Force of Nature Kathleen Grant is a woman who believes in giving not taking

Vol 1 - Issue 1 15 August 2014

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4-6.......Life Down Under 8-10....Sharon’s Challenge 11.....,,,.Celtic Feast in Burt 12-13..Trish’s Trait 14.........Pat’s Peninsula 16-18...Roisin is centre stage 20-21...Rashenny School 22-23...Inspiring Kathleen Grant 24-25...Scoil Treasa Naofa 26.........Peninsula Person 27.........Learning to sail 28-29..Tom Conwell hits 90 30.........Reflection 31.........Appreciation - Billy Buchanan 32.........Belvoir Shirts reunion 33.........Grow & Cook at Warrenview 34-35...Clonmany show 36-37...Caolan’s flying machines 38-39...Whorriskey golden wedding 40-41...Vivid Performances 42-43...Moville Curry Night 44.........People’s Diary 45.........Prize crossword and People from the past u PAGE 46-47...Damien is full of beans

Welcome to the Peninsula People.

You are very welcome to our bright new weekly publication serving the Inishowen Peninsula and its People, aiming to promote “The People and Places That Make Inishowen Great”.

Inishowen is a fantastic place to live and we hear it time and time again from people who visit here. We hear it from people who have left here and live elsewhere, with a longing to return. People have gone to far off places in search of work but ask them where they would prefer to live and the answer will be the same - Inishowen.

Although we are going through a really difficult period economically, the people of Inishowen, as usual, battle on and make the best of what we have.

There are qualities that we have here that will not change no matter what the circumstances. The people of Inishowen have a never ending supply of kindness, inspiration and get up and go attitude.

There are so many individuals and groups of people operating in this Peninsula, doing good deeds and trying to make life a little better for others.

We at the Peninsula People would like to share the stories of those people who quietly work behind the scenes in whatever capacity in making this a great place to live. Although we welcome people to contribute appreciations for their deceased loved ones, friends or neighbours, but why wait - let them know when they are alive how great they are.

Contact us today and share the good news of Inishowen.

Kevin n ha Callag

MEET THE TEAM Pat McArt is the former Managing Editor of Derry Journal Group Newspapers, once Ireland's largest provincial newspaper group.

Following his early retirement in 2006 after 25 years in the post he became a newspaper columnist and still regularly contributes to a number of publications.

He's also a regular broadcaster on Highland Radio.

A native of Letterkenny now long resident in Burt, Pat began his career in the 'Derry People' in 1974. He became the youngest newspaper editor in Ireland when he took over the chair at the Derry Journal in 1982 at the age of 28.

Peninsula People journalist Catherine McGinty loves meeting and interviewing the Inishowen people whose life stories immeasurably enrich Donegal’s social history. She also enjoys a cup of tea and a bun. Contact her at peninsulapeople@eircom.net with your good news stories. She will be delighted to hear from you.

John Gill is one of the North West’s most experienced and well-known journalists.

As senior reporter with the Derry Journal, he covered major news stories and features in Inishowen.

He was also editor of the Inish Times for four years.

CONTACT US

Tel: 086 6075077 email: peninsulapeople@eircom.net or call into our office at SuperValu Shopping Complex, Newpark Road, Carndonagh @Peninsula_Peeps peninsulapeople

Peninsula People

CONTENTS

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Last year Anne Harkin (nee Diver), her husband, Michael, and their three children, Medbh, Aoife and Trea took a major life changing journey from their home in Buncrana to start a new life in Australia.

Like many Irish people before her it was a decision made based on economic circumstances rather than free choice. And for a self confessed ‘home bird’ who lived – and enjoyed - life here to the full it was not a decision easily arrived at.

She explained: “ We spent two years talking about it before making the decision.

Although we had a good life in Ireland, Mick was becoming increasingly challenged finding work being a self-employed plumber and he was uncomfortable with the instability and lack of security in the workplace.

Generally, lots of people were negative and there was a real sense of uncertainty.

We had to ask ourselves the hard questions – long term

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Michael and Anne

Inishowen couple’s new life Down Under how were we going to survive? What was best for the children? We did all the usual pluses and negatives

Anne and the girls montain climbing in Glen Patrick

and Australia seemed the better option long term and that, ultimately, was the deciding factor.”

Now almost a year in Melbourne how have they settled?

RIGHT... Discovering gold near Glen Patrick BELOW... The gathering of the Harkin clan

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ABOVE... Christmas Day at Mick’s Parent home

“The Australian people are lovely and most welcoming.

My children enrolled in Saint Brigit’s Catholic school here in Gisborne and have integrated really well. The children and staff of the school were just thrilled to have three Irish girls joining. The girls just love it here. They have integrated really well. They have eight cousins here, six of which are girls of their age group so family gatherings are exciting and full of fun. It amazes me how well they have adjusted.”

What made the decision that bit easier is Mick is Australian with Irish parents (father, Len, from Carndonagh and mother Peggy (nee Green) from Inch Island) which alleviated a lot of Anne’s initial stress and worry about moving.

“To be honest, I don’t think we could have done this without the support of Mick’s family. We stayed with Len and Peggy for two months after arriving from Ireland. This enabled Mick to look for work and allowed us to make final decisions on where we should live and start the girls in school.

Mick studied and completed his 6-year plumbing apprenticeship in Melbourne and that has proved to be invaluable in locating work.”

But Anne says in terms of leaving friends and family ‘it is, and will always be, difficult’.

She goes on: “On the bright side social media/networking has played a key role in bridging the gap between Ireland and Australia. Skype gets quite a bit of use in our house too. Ultimately,

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the way I deal with it is to see this move as a ‘two year adventure’ which may develop into something more. I am of the belief that if it is not what we expect or want then we can always reevaluate and home always is there. Having said that I understand and appreciate that settling will not happen overnight.”

Anne says the Aussie stereotype of all sunshine and sport is more than a little misleading. There’s hard work, and life in Australia can be expensive, particularly education for a young family.

It takes good incomes to sustain a good lifestyle there.

Anne again: “The lovely lifestyle we are endeavouring to establish here comes at a price- literally! Everything is very expensive, much more so than in Ireland, even on a relative basis. Mick and I both have to work to sustain this lifestyle. There may be lots of work and ‘big pay’ jobs, but then you need this, just to survive. And if you want your children to receive a good education, then you need to send them to private school. Saint Brigit’s is a private primary school and we have to pay for their education there.It appears that only those that can afford the “extras” will get the chances and opportunities here. I have to be honest and say this aspect of living here continues to worry me and may play a significant role in our decision on our long-term plans.”

And that other Aussie stereotype – the weather. Is it as glorious as the Aussies like to have us believe.

“Not quite! The weather is no doubt a bonus here in Australia. Both spring and summer offer beautiful sunny/ dry, bright weather.

It’s guaranteed. But for the last 3 months since May it has been cold, wet and windy- very similar to an

A stroll down Sandy Lane, Glen Patrick

Irish Autumn/Winter, with typical temps between 5-11 degrees C, with very cold mornings as low as 5degrees C. Mick finds this very difficult, as he doesn’t remember these extremes, having lived in Ireland for the last 22 years. Queensland and the Northern Territories would be a lot warmer than here in Victoria.”

Anne says she can

understand why the country attracts so many young Irish: “Australia has lots of opportunities for younger people who have few commitments. There are a vast variety of jobs in many different industries here. I think that the experience gained from working and travelling here would be very valuable. “ But surely moving at a more

mature age with a family is a more difficult undertaking?

“Very much so. Being in my mid 40’s, married with 3 children under 11 years, and having to start from scratch again, has been a considerable challenge. Life is fast here. It’s about making and spending money, with brief ‘chilled out’ periods, similar to the way Ireland was during the Celtic Tiger.

It’s not the Klondike either.

Mick spoke with a senior union representative in Melbourne about work prospects and he alerted us to the fact that the construction industry in Victoria is the worst it’s been in 25 year.”

So what, finally, is her view of emigration?

“You have to weigh up so many factors. It’s not easy.

There were many diverse factors involved in our move.

Mick wanted to spend more time with his parents. Our kids were the right age for moving.

“We had checked out Australia during previous visits and knew what we were looking for. But the big thing was what was best for the family.

“Having been raised throughout the recession of the 70’s and 80’s in Ireland, lived my early adulthood days during the Celtic Tiger and finally experiencing the current recession it forced me to re-evaluate whether you could live a quality life without a secure income.

That I didn’t think this was possible, in turn, prepared me for this journey of starting over again.Your priority has to be to give your children a good life.

She concludes: “And people might say the world’s a small place these days but when you fly to Australia you realise it’s far, far from home.

But we made a decision that this was the right thing to do. But don’t be in any doubt it was a massive decision.”

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ATM - Coffee Shop - Free Parking Open: Mon-Sat 7am - 11pm Sunday 7.30am - 10pm

Sharon conquers Clipper challenge... and much more!

Peninsula People

Sharon Doherty sits enjoying the panoramic view of Lough Foyle from her Whitecastle home near Quigley's Point.

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It is a view the Royal and Prior Comprehensive School (Raphoe) teacher has become accustomed to - having been brought up along the shores of the Foyle.

The daughter of Billy and Iris (nee Burns, from Greencastle) and the eldest of a family of five - two girls and three boys - Sharon lives just up the hill from the family home of Whitecastle House, situated yards from the river's edge.

It was from here, while attending St Columba's School in Moville and Carndonagh Community School, she went salmon fishing (from the age of eight) and dinghy sailing with her father.

So, it was no surprise when she applied and was accepted as a crew member on board the Derry "LondonDerry" Doire on a leg of the 2013-2014 Clipper Round the World Yacht Race.

For many years, Sharon wanted to sail the Southern Ocean, regarded as one

of the toughest sailing challenges in the world.

However, at the time little did she re-

Sharon Doherty: An inspiration.

alise that a tougher challenge lay ahead - one that she would take on and conquer.

The smile says it all.

And it is her courage and determination after she was diagnosed with breast cancer that has seen her become an inspiration to other women diagnosed with the illness.

After leaving Carndonagh Community School, Sharon went to study at Stirling University in Scotland before finishing a post graduate course at the National University of Ireland in Galway, ahead of taking up her chosen career.

As someone who spent her childhood and teenage years "on the water," it came as a surprise to some that she chose teaching.

But Sharon revealed: "I believed I got on quite well with teenagers and after a year 'subbing' in Carndonagh I knew I wanted to teacher. I really loved it."

Sharon then spent three years (20052008) teaching in Crana College in Buncrana before taking up her current position of business and learning support teacher at Royal and Prior.

Even though she had chosen a career "on dry land," the sea was never far from her heart and as she stood

Sharon enjoying the sights of New York.

"I ran down to the house to tell mum and dad. I was over the moon," she revealed.

Intensive training in Gosport in the

south of England was passed with flying colours and it was all systems go.

However, a week before the race

Sharon (back right) all set to sail the Atlantic on board the Jamaica Get All Right.

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on the shore at the family home in the summer of 2012 to watch to first ever Clipper fleet sail into Derry, she first thought of taking on one of the toughest challenges of the ocean waves can throw up.

"The arrival of the boats in 2012 was spread over a number of days, and each day my dad and I went to see them and I began to think it would be a really, challenging thing to do.

"While the boats were berthed in Derry, I went on board the Derry boat with my brother, Stuart, and it was then I said: 'I can do this'."

An application pack was sent for and duly sent but the cost involved cast doubts in Sharon's head - but not for long.

She explained: "I looked at the total cost and said 'this is a lot of money.' I put it away but could not get it out of my heard and I eventually applied."

A phone interview duly followed at the end of which Sharon was told her application had been successful and she would sail the Southern Ocean from Cape Town in South Africa to Albany in Australia.

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was to start, she was to receive news that would bring the challenge to an end - before it even started.

She explained: "I was feeling more tired than usual so I went to my GP who referred me on."

After being diagnosed with breast cancer, a mastectomy was recommended "sooner rather than later."

It was advice Sharon could not ignore but she still made the trip to South Africa!

She revealed: "I had booked a 10-day holiday prior to going on the boat and they allowed me to go. While there, I met the crew and wished them all the best. They wished me well and kept in contact to get updates on how I was doing."

Following successful surgery and with the support of family and friends, Sharon came through her ordeal and it was not long before her thoughts, once again, turned to the Clipper challenge.

Sharon got in touch with the race organisers inquiring if there was still a possibility of her joining the Derry crew.

Unfortunately, her place on the Southern Ocean leg had been filled.

"I was very disappointed, I had taken a career break and had been preparing for a year," she said.

Sharon kept in touch with the organisers and a day in Derry promoting family and friends tee-shirts for the local boat, convinced her to keep trying.

"When I came home I emailed the race organisers asking them was there 'any possibility' of getting a berth.

"I got an email back the next day and when I opened it it said they had found one for me - not on the Derry boat but on the Jamaica Get All Right yacht on the 'Homecoming' leg from New York across the Atlantic to the finish in London, which included the stop-over in Derry.

"I was really excited and the thought of me sailing past my home was just unreal."

Sharon had eight weeks to prepare during which time her brother, Stuart - a personal trainer - converted a bedroom in his home into a mini-gym and set her a personal programme centred on her upper body strength.

She flew to New York four days before joining the crew and after 16 days at sea and 3,100 miles, sailing up the Foyle was something she did not want to miss.

She explained: "There was 16 of us, split

Sharon enjoying a well-earned mug of coffee in Den Helder in Holland.

into two groups, so when one was working, the other slept. I was to be sleeping on the approach to Inishowen but I had asked to be woken and when I got up we were just off Shrove Head."

As Sharon sailed up the Foyle, her family, boyfriend Darren Ladd and friends were on the shore at the family home bringing back memories of the days she watched the Clipper yachts arrive two years earlier.

And she revealed: "They even motored out and and gave us a bottle of Jamieson Whiskey and home-made scones. That, along with the arrival in Derry and the send-offs from there and Greencastle - especially the Red Arrows - are memories I will never forget."

Sharon was delighted to spend the stop-over at home but she revealed she had enjoyed the experience so much she "could not wait to get away again."

Reflecting on the experience, Sharon said it was one she had no hesitation in recommending.

She said: "It is a chance to do something different and meet so many people from different backgrounds. There were 16 different nationalities on the Jamaica."

Looking ahead, Sharon said she was "ready to go back to work" next month.

But, what about challenge thrown up by the Southern Ocean?

She said: "I don't think the thought of sailing it will ever go away."

“`The day job�: Sharon helping to put up a sail on the Jamaica.

Celtic Feast Night at An Grianan Hotel

Nora Duncan enjoying the Feast

Peter McDermott and Fr Neal Carlin

Former Moness school teacher Liam McCloskey with his daughter Orla and Kathleen Grant

Dressed for the occasion - the staff blend in

The very talented Cullen family provided the music

Geralyn Shevlin is captured by the warriors

The Celtic Feast is a real family event. The next event takes place on Saturday 23rd August.

A real party atmosphere

The dancers in full flight during the Feast

Trish’s trait is telling the world

Peninsula People

by Pat McArt

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The sun was shining when I met Trish Hegarty at her family home at Shroove. Perched high up the hill with the vast expanse of the Foyle glistening like silver in the early morning sun it was more than a little picturesque.

“Isn’t this truly beautiful,’ says I. “I love Shroove more than any place else in the world,’ she says with considerable feeling, adding “it’s a great community and a great place to bring up kids.”?”

The former BBC and Irish Times journalist has a unique achievement in that she is the first person in Inishowen to establish a PR firm there, a very unusual location for such a business But Trish is more than happy that Inis Communications, the firm she founded in 2004, is progressing in the right direction.

Surviving the recession was, she says, a ‘massive achievement’ in itself, but now with clients not only here at home but a number of contracts abroad, including one with a Swiss client, things are moving in the right direction.

She explains: “It hasn’t been easy but I saw a gap in the market when I was looking around for a change in career and I went for it. No one was really doing PR yet there are lots of companies that need to get the message out there to the world what we have to offer With Coderdojo founder James Whelton

Trish with former Tanaiste Eamon Gilmore (right) and Foyle SDLP MP Mark Durkan.

“What?”

In an unusual twist when Molly died Walter, who never really got over her death, decided to become a priest and was ordained in 1981.

He only passed away in 2012.

So did that all have an effect on the family?

“Of course it did. I was only 13 when mum died, and I missed her terribly. Still do.

Dad going for the priesthood was a shock but he was very religious and, I think, he was looking for comfort in his loss.

“Because of mum’s passing at such a young age it makes you consider your life.

When myself and Fiontain O Caolain, husband) were having one of those late at night discussions about where we go to next he asked me to cut to the chase and state what I wanted to

With former Irish President, Mary McAleese

do. I said I wanted to live in Greencastle. I felt at home there, secure. We then agreed that was what we would do. That was a long time ago but I’m here now so we made it happen, didn’t we!”

Trish’s personal journey is also an interesting one.

While claiming she was not all that academic or all that interested in pursuing third level education she did end up going to Queen’s in Belfast where she did Sociology and Anthropology.

While in Belfast she got involved in student politics and ended up being the first woman president of the Union of Students in Ireland, not because of any great master plan but because she had a real bee in her bonnet about tuition fees.

“I feel very strongly about it now and I felt strongly about it then. It’s happening again.

Soon education will only be the preserve of the rich. That shouldn’t be allowed to happen. I got involved in the campaign to oppose fees.“ And that, believe it or not, led to a career in journalism.

“I had to deal with the media so much as president of the USI I actually got to know a lot of people in journalism and I decided it was a career I would like. I later did a journalism course in Dublin

and began freelancing with the Irish Times.”

So how has it all changed now?

“There has been a revolution in this game. I have had to learn to deal with the digital revolution. The days of broadcast and print media having it to themselves are gone. Now a lot of news is disseminated online, on the web, in social media. I have had to learn to be skilled to a high degree in these areas.

Traditional skills play a part – writing, editing, being able to get across the message – but it’s not the whole story anymore.”

As well as the busy mother of Tiarnan (16) and Rioghan (13) Trish says she spends a ‘good part’ of most days online looking after her clients. It can be a press release, a campaign, compiling a report.

She concluded: “I have to admit I have the best of both worlds. Being a wife and mother is very important to me, family is everything, but I also run a business that is going along nicely. Indeed, learning to run a business was a new thing for me in that journalism is about getting the story, never concerning yourself with who pays for it. I had to learn that there are, quite literally, two sides to a story.

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here. I had the experience and the background in journalism to bring that about.

“My clients include the Port and Harbour Authority in Derry, B&B Ireland, Eargail Arts Festival, Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, a whole host of cross border projects, plus companies like Inishowen Motors, The Fennel Shed, Buncrana.

There is a real mix and I’m always kept on my toes.”

So how did a woman who has lived in about six different towns in her youth end up in Inishowen.

“Long story. My dad, Walter Hegarty, was in the bank. He was from Derry, a Catholic, and he met my mother, Molly Dixon, a member of the Church of Ireland, from Belfast, and they got married.

That was a bit different in those days.

“And life was a bit different for us too. We lived, at various times, in Stranorlar, Athlone, Castleblaney and Howth but the one constant was Greencastle – we came here to spend time with Granny Hegarty, who was a member of the Gillespie family.

“My dad loved this place, absolutely loved it and I think he passed that love on to us.

And then Trish came out with a classic line out of the blue: “And it’s not everyone who can say she is a daughter of a priest’, she adds with a laugh.

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Pat’s Peninsula A real live issue for Inishowen When I started going out with the wife back in the day we used to go out in Carndonagh on a Saturday night.

It was not unusual, in fact quite common, to see tractors parked outside various pubs and inside coming across some wee man enjoying a bottle of Guinness and smoking his fag engaged in animated conservation with similarly dressed folk discussing cattle prices, the weather or the state of the spud crop. The laughter, the banter, the craic -whatever you want to call it could be mighty.

The other day on Highland Radio Dr. John Madden, a retired Inishowen GP, pointed out that our drink driving laws have had some unintended

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I have a theory about all this

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consequences, and not for the better.

Many people living in rural areas are now more isolated than ever. Years ago a man living on his own would come into town to have a pint, met his friends and neighbours, catch up on the gossip and feel part of a community.

Now, Dr. Madden pointed out, they might sit at home maybe drinking more than they should from the bottle of whiskey they bought in the supermarket off licence, feeling lonely, maybe scared.

There is a lot of talk about gangs coming up from Dublin with hammers raiding houses. Even the post man hardly calls these days, letters being

delivered to post boxes.

The good doctor's point is well made.

I have always thought all this grossly unfair seeing that here in Inishowen there is no public transport provision, and to hire a taxi can be far too prohibitive for many people if cost wise it's €15/20 to get to town and the same back. This is not Dublin.

How are people supposed to get out?

There are no Luas lines, no CIE buses here.

I'm not advocating a return to the days of looney tunes full out of their skulls on booze on our roads but I do think we do need to have a look at the whole issue of rural loneliness. It's a real, and growing, problem.

It's crazy out there...

For years I could drive anywhere in Inishowen and a jogger or a cyclist was as rare as a snow flake in the Sahara. Now it's like a plague.

I had to go to Clonmany on a Sunday morning recently and I must have passed about 50 cyclists, guys and gals in their singlets and shorts and headgear.

They were that numerous I thought I was tailing the Tour De France for a while. But it doesn't end there.

As you drive along the border villages you see them - the overweight jogger, red faced, sweating, looking like they are going to expire in the next few yards.

The odd thing is, months later you see the same people and they never seem to lose an ounce.

Sorry, I'm referring to myself again...

Years ago Donegal Co. Council had gangs in situ in various parts of the county going around cleaning and clearing the drains at the sides of the road.

All the muck and crap accumulated was cleared with shovels and spades every couple of months and so the water ran freely even when there was a heavy I hope you folks out there have enjoyed this first ever downpour. Flooding was extremely rare.

'Pat's Peninsula' column.

Now no one bothers.You see surface water lying on We hope you will make your views known and get in touch by email, the road even in relatively mild days. text or whatever.

And as for Letterkenny General Hospital, now there In the coming months we'll be out and about chronicling and is something that really does need sorted. It took commenting on events and happenings mainly in Inishowen. €43m. to repair the flooding damage at the then This peninsula is one of the last undiscovered gems in western newly opened A&E last year, and it was only good luck Europe and we have a good news story to tell and sell. and good fortune on this occasion that the same 'Peninsula People' intends to do just that. didn't happen.

Welcome to 'Pat's Peninsula'

Tooban singer taking centre stage

By Catherine McGinty :: Photos: Andrejs Plavins Photography

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Róisín Carlin’s starring role in Take The Floor is no flash in the pan. The modest young Tooban woman is definitely here to stay.

Lead vocalist in what was described as the most dynamic Irish Dance show in the world, she absolutely wowed the audience in Derry.

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Speaking back-stage during a break in Take The Floor rehearsals she said: “This week has been hectic! I flew into Shannon from New York on Sunday. The plane landed at 7.00am.

Three hours later we were in the University of Limerick, where our directors, Paula Goulding and Shane McAvinchey began putting 60 Irish dancers, from Germany, China and the United States, through their paces.

“Today I was up in Dublin recording the song I will be Róisín Carlin on stage at the Millennium Forum.

singing for the show. It is beautiful.

Called Here To Stay, it was written by David Downes, who was nominated for an Emmy for Celtic Woman: Songs from the Heart.

I really cannot believe that I am working with such talented people as Paula, Shane and David. This is a brilliant opportunity for me. I cannot thank everyone who voted for me enough.

Without the tremendous Inishowen support especially, I might not have made it through the initial stages of the audition process. Now, here I am receiving vocal coaching from the amazing Elaine Canning,” she smiled.

Peninsula People readers will

remember Elaine Canning as the first woman to sing Amhrán na bhFiann in Croke Park before an All Ireland football final.

A clearly delighted Róisín said she was particularly looking forward to performing in the Millennium Forum.

She added: “I practically grew up in the

Millennium Forum. It is only five miles up the road from Tooban and from the age of four, I was there singing, dancing and reciting poems. My graduation ceremony even took place there.

“During my dancing days with the McCaul Irish Dance Academy and the McConomy School of Irish Dance, I dreamt of taking part in a show like Take The Floor. It combines my three great loves, singing, dancing and music. I was so lucky to have Louise Doherty as my piano teacher when I was younger. I have much to thank her for. I was a little nervous about performing in the live

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Róisín with her parents Brendan and Catherine and brothers Kevin and Conor

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shows, in Limerick, Wexford and Derry but mainly excited and really looking forward to the experience.”

Róisín’s Take The Floor adventure began in May, when she was home in Tooban for mum Catherine’s birthday.

She explained: “Like so many other young people from Inishowen, I recently emigrated to New York. Thinking about it, maybe that is why I have been able to cope so well with the Take The Floor rehearsals, which are really full-on. In New York life is fast-paced and busy.

Time seems to fly there. Sometimes I feel a bit guilty if I am sitting relaxing!

“Mammy persuaded me to record a video, so I sang Black and Gold and submitted it to the Take The Floor Voice Search competition. This was followed by a nerve-wracking period of online voting, during which I received an unbelievable 6,500 votes. The judges, Paula, Shane, David and singer, Ryan Sheridan then offered me the role of

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lead vocalist. I was absolutely thrilled.

“I cannot believe that I am going to be performing onstage with 60 stunning Irish dancers and the fantastic Beoga. I mean, Beoga received a Grammy nomination for the Best Contemporary World Music Album for their 2010 album The Incident. They are superb,” beamed Róisín.

Connoisseurs say that Beoga incorporate anything from bluesy riffs to Astor Piazzola-style jazz, to a raunchy New Orleans jamboree vibe into their Trad.

Róisín’s mum and dad, Catherine and Brendan were in the Take The Floor audience at the Millennium Forum, with her brothers, Conor and Kevin.

An emotional Catherine said: “We were as proud as punch when Róisín got the part in Take The Floor.

“The whole performance tonight was sensational. Everyone was magnificent. I am over the moon that Róisín has got

Dancers performing in “Take the Floor” at the Millennium Forum.

an opportunity to do what she loves best. I cannot thank all of the people who voted for Black and Gold enough.

“We will be sorry to see Róisín going back to New York next week but, hopefully, this is just the start of her stage career.”

Grinning, Róisín revealed that she had a few more grueling weeks ahead Stateside.

“I am currently an assistant teacher at the McGough Academy School of Irish Dance in Baltimore, which I love. But I am studying for my TCRG qualification, which will enable me to become a fully certified Irish dancing teacher. I will be doing my exams in October, so I am keeping my fingers crossed that everything goes well.”

Down-to-earth and hardworking, Róisín Carlin is a credit to her family, St Mura’s National School, Tooban and Scoil Mhuire, Buncrana, where she spent her formative years.

12 William St., Derry Tel: 048 7137 2424

175 years of Scoil Phรกdraig, Rashenny

Callum Doherty, Eddie Toland, Aisling Callaghan and Brid Grant checking the Roll Books

Above: The Noone sisters: Eileen Collins, Pauline Butler & Eoghan and Sharon McLaughlin Right: The Noone Grandchildren

Above: The Doherty family - Callum, Mae, Tillie, John Joe and Anthony Right: Geraldine, Michael and Anne Doherty from Ardagh

Peninsula People

One of the wall murals drawn by pupils

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175 years of Scoil Ph谩draig, Rashenny

Above: Teacher Nuala Doherty and past pupil Amanda Doherty with the old school bell Below: The Toland family - Eddie, Colm, Michael, Gerard, Margaret and Cissie

Above: Principal Geraldine Mooney with teachers Bernie Friel and Nuala Doherty with the Anniversary Booklet Below: Mary and Sharon Callaghan

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Below: Commemorative Quilt - Grandparents, Parents, teachers and 5th and 6th class children worked with Teresa Downes, Trina Mhic Dh贸naill, Catriona Noone and Teresa Noone on this beautiful Wall Hanging

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So Many Books To Read

In her element - Kathleen preparing for her recent fundraising book sale

by Pat McArt

Peninsula People

Kathleen Grant is a force of nature, an extrovert who hosts book sales, runs quizzes, takes photographs, is an ardent GAA supporter, a woman who says hello to everyone she meets. A Duracell battery would lose out in an energy contest.. That, anyway, is the face she likes to put forward in public.

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But behind that public persona is a much more serious character, a woman who works non stop for charity, who has had to deal with serious health issues, and whose philosophy for living is a belief in giving not taking.

Speaking with ‘Peninsula People’ Kathleen explained her attitude to life: “From childhood I was acutely aware there were people struggling, people who with a wee bit of the right help could make it. I empathised with that. I suppose the fact my father died when I was four and that on the day he was buried my mother had all of £11 in her purse and eight children to feed and care for. That might have a lot to do

In a rare mode of

with it.”

But she is anxious that her charity work not be characterised as some heavy burden.

“That would be a very misleading.The feel good factor for me is huge. People are very generous, and seeing a young child bringing in his toys to donate them to charity sure that would bring cheer to even the hardest heart.”

A woman always ready for a joke or a laugh when asked to describe herself, Kathleen immediately replies: “I’m a 62 year old unclaimed treasure.

relaxation

Don’t dare describe me as a spinster. I’m a Burt woman. Born in Bohillion. And I’m a twin.”

What’s it like to be a twin?

“Can’t answer that question seeing I have never been anything other than a twin. Me and Breige are best pals. We never fight. And she makes a lovely cup of tea!”

Kathleen is unbelievably proud of her home place and its people.

Always looking after others visiting the late Mary Coyle

youth went wrong, and her sister Briege who has had a long battle with depression. ????? ??

She explains the background: “The same day as the birth certificate episode the manager sent me for a medical with Dr White at the old Dispensary at Carnamaddy. He took one look at my pale face and immediately wrote a prescription for iron tablets. Breige was also put on them. It was the worst thing ever because it was discovered many years later both of us actually over produce iron.”

And the outcome was not good: “Breige has suffered from acute depression for many years now and the more I read about it the more I’m convinced that the trigger was the iron tablets. The anxiety levels caused by the over production of iron were unreal.”

Both Kathleen and Breige have also had to deal with breast cancer scares which saw them having to spend time in Galway for treatment.

“It was a great shock at the time, for both of us. But thank God for the good doctors and nurses, our great friends, the prayers and all who gave us

support. It really is something you never forget.”

So back to why all the charity work?

“I have always had this thing where I can pick up the vibes from people, I sense when they are unhappy. I have this urge to try and make things better.

As a child I would give up my seat on the bus to someone who looked tired.

If someone was crying I would go over and help them dry their tears. That was the type of character I was given. I’m also religious in that I believe we are all pilgrims on a journey and meeting God at the end of that journey is our destination.”

But Kathleen refuses to finish on a serious note. She is a proud member of the Grianan Women’s Group and she believes it has a great ethos.

“I was involved in founding the group. I believe it should be there for fun, friendship and enlightment’.I think a tidy house is a sign of a wasted life.

There is so much music still to hear. So many songs to sing. So many books to read. So many people to meet and friends to make. Life is for living…”

Making one of her many cheque presentations. This one, for over €2100 to Sister Francesca of the Nazareth House in Fahan for the Residents Fund, with Jeanette and Fr Michael Porter

Peninsula People

Here’s the message:“Burt has a mixed community where people of all religions and none, are great friends and neighbours. When I’m organising, for example, the book sale the work involved is huge – getting tables set up, moving around thousands of books, getting refreshments made, getting vans and cars and people to lift and carry stuff – but I have the greatest support crew you could ever meet. They all volunteer.Good people are good people. Full stop.”

So what was it like growing up in the Grant family?

“We were, I suppose, like every other family around here. Most of the older ones had to emigrate to find work and send the money back to rear the rest of us. That was the only way to survive back then. The little brown envelopes – the honest ones – that came back with the Queen’s head on the pound notes inside were very gratefully received. I left school early after I had to take time off to gather the spuds and when I went back I was told to stand in the cloakroom for missing school. When my mother heard this she said ‘I’m not sending you to school to waste your time standing a cloakroom’ so that was the end of my formal education.”

The world of work now beckoned and Kathleen’s first job, at the tender age of 13, was in O’Neill and McHenry’s at Bridgend.

“I told a lie to get a job.You were supposed to be 14 but I was only 13. I got the job and thought I was in the clear when I got a call to go see the manager. An ashen faced me went up to the door and the manager asked me to bring a copy of my birth cert to work.

The game was up, but it all got sorted in the end as my uncle Willie, from the Illies, was a great customer there and I was allowed to stay. I have never forgotten that episode.”

But the reprieve didn’t last long. “ It wasn’t all that many years later when they brought in time and motion people to monitor how fast we could pack the ‘Dagda’ products – named after a chieftain up on Grianan Hill – and when they suggested there were quicker ways of packing the raisins, the barley, the split peas etc our jobs were gone.”

Various jobs followed but for quite a few years in later life Kathleen has worked as carer looking after her late brother, Willie, who suffered from epilepsy after a brain operation in his

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Scoil Treasa Naofa Malin Re-Union

Michael and Anne McCarron

The Doherty sisters - Frances Sheerin, Mary and Sheila Doherty

Above: MĂĄire Farren and Andrea Shields

Peninsula People

Left: Siobhan McLaughlin, Orla and Maura McClean and Evelyn Agnew

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Pearse and Michelle Enright

Francis McCallion

Kevin and Maura O’Brien.

Maura (Ward) taught in the school for 36 years

Scoil Treasa Naofa Malin Re-Union

James and Nuala McClean

Patricia Mac and Damhnat Sweeney

Eileen McLaughlin and daughter Fionnuala Howard Left: Mary Devlin and daughter Susan Karren

Right: William McLaughlin and Michael McDaid

Left: Donna McLaughlin, Mary Kathleen McLaughlin and Grace McCallion with former teacher Maura Ward

Peninsula People

Gerard and Sally Synott

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Peninsula Person

Our inaugural Peninsula Person is Moville’s Brian Barr.

has eight wanes and I have six.

The owner of Irish Ceremonies, Brian creates and conducts bespoke ceremonies celebrating marriage, the renewal of marriage vows, civil partnership, commitment to one another, the naming of a new baby and funeral ceremonies. He recently retired as Derry City Council’s registrar of births, deaths and marriages.

Where are you from, Brian?

I am from Derry originally but I married a Moville woman, Carmel McLaughlin, and settled here. Carmel’s mother Ellen (née McCallion) hailed from Gleneely. Her father, Paddy was a stonemason and builder. Paddy built us our first home when we married 40 years ago last month.

What brought you to Moville?

The dances in the Foyle Hotel on Saturday night’s. On that fateful night in 1971 when I asked Carmel if I could leave her home, I couldn’t believe it when she said she only lived across the road How would you sum yourself up in three words?

Laid-back, dedicated and happy.

What is your favourite film?

I am not much of a film buff. I prefer going to see plays. I am a big fan of John B Keane’s. I used to be a member of the Moville Drama Group. I played the Doctor in “Sive” and the Canon in “Moll”, many years ago.

Peninsula People

What was the best thing Santa ever brought you?

A garage where you put a car in the top and it whizzed round and round and came out the bottom. That and a toy rifle with a white butt.

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What is your favourite piece of music?

The best band of all time has got to be Dire Straits and the best song “Romeo and Juliet”. The wanes used to laugh and say, ‘Look at Daddy listening to all those love songs’ when I used to make compilation tapes. I like Adele as well. I think she is a great singer and I love her

music. I like the Beatles too, of course.

What is your favourite food?

Definitely Italian. I love lasagne.

What is your personal motto?

‘Don’t look back in anger’ from the Oasis song by the same name. .

Who would you most love to meet?

Alex Ferguson. I am a Manchester United season ticket holder. I am heading over to Old Trafford soon for the first match of the new season. I would also have loved to have met Seamus Heaney. I think I would have got on well with him. I am an old socialist at heart.

QUICK QUIZ Television or Radio? Television.

Cup of tea or glass of wine? Tea. Céilí dancing or Twerking?

Neither. I would rather sit and watch someone else dancing. I can’t even jive.

European Union or United States? European Union.

Daniel O’Donnell or Christy Moore?

Christy Moore (one million per cent).

What is your favourite book?

“Mister, Are You a Priest? Recollections

by Bishop Edward Daly”.

Who is your secret crush?

Miriam O’Callaghan. She is a woman after my own heart. She has beautifully combined family life and her career. She

What is your happiest childhood memory?

Going to GAA matches in Ballinascreen, it seemed like every Sunday, with my father and my two uncles. Usually we would take a packed lunch but when we were up in Croke Park we would have our lunch in the hotel in Dublin Airport. I loved watching the aeroplanes taking off and landing. I was mesmerised by a hotel being in an airport.

If you were granted one wish, what would it be?

That my children and grandchildren would always be happy. We are blessed having them on our doorstep.

Who is your favourite historical figure?

Eamonn McCann because he has refused to deviate from his principles since the beginning of the Civil Rights Campaign. He has always championed socialist principles.

What is your favourite holiday destination?

Barcelona. It is a colourful, beach city which is home to many different nationalities. There is plenty to see and do there.

Who would you go to first for advice?

Katie, my youngest daughter. She is very pragmatic and practical.

What is the most important life lesson you have learned?

Always look on the bright side of life.

I am a very positive person.

How would you like to be remembered?

As a people person who cared about those around me. I try to make difficult situations easier for people.

What would your epitaph be?

I always tried to do my best for people.

Who would you nominate as your person who makes Inishowen great?

Councillor Martin Farren from Moville.

He works very hard, trying to help as many people as possible, always with what is best for Moville in his heart.

A swell summer sailing on the Swilly

By Catherine McGinty

Learning to sail on the Swilly is just so much fun

winning yacht into Greencastle. Lough Swilly Yacht Club, Lough Foyle Yacht Club and Moville Boat Club coorganised the Foyle Sailability Regatta in Derry. That was a fantastic success. We had 120 young people and adults with disabilities out on the River Foyle, sailing. It was brilliant.“In fact it was so successful, the Foyle Sailability crew of volunteers hosted its second regatta of the season, in Greencastle yesterday Thursday).

Greencastle Yacht Club will be showing off its new disabled access facilities too,” smiled Charlie.

Like many people before him, Charlie McMonagle has been hypnotised by the Lake of Shadows.

He said: “I got hooked on sailing in 2007. I just love sailing. It is relaxing, sublime. We are out in all weathers. I love the different lights and shades you can see on the Swilly. Four years ago I persuaded my grandson Conall to become involved. He is hoping to gain his ISA Level 3 Assistant Instructor qualification this year.

“With qualifications like these, young people from Inishowen will be able to sail with any club worldwide. They will also be able to crew, which is an amazing experience. The qualification can also be used as part of the Gaisce Award.

“Lough Swilly Yacht Club races from St Patrick’s Day until early December. We also participate in the Fahan, Rathmullan and Buncrana regattas.

These are big family days out. I would encourage people of all ages to get involved in sailing. The Swilly is a gem on our doorstep. If anyone is interested in crewing, they should contact Martin or me,” he added enthusiastically.

For more information on the Lough Swilly Sailing School contact: Charlie on 0862751591 or Martin on 07753688264.

Peninsula People

Blinding summer sunshine glinted off the cerulean Swilly as Martin Coyle and Charlie McMonagle, who co-ordinate the Lough Swilly Sailing School’s summer scheme, greeted their first cohort of eager students.

Senior Irish Sailing Association (ISA) Instructor, Johnny Coyle exuded an air of calm reassurance as he introduced himself.

He said: “The Lough Swilly Sailing School (LSSS) was founded 15 years ago and is ISA accredited. We work in partnership with the Lough Swilly Yacht Club to promote and develop sailing in Inishowen. We run our sailing sessions in the historic Fahan Creek beside the old pier. I have to say, more picturesque surroundings in which to learn to sail you could not find.

“The Lough Swilly Sailing School offers individual tuition in Laser Picos, with qualified instructors, for the adults and children who take part in our courses.

We also provide safety cover, wetsuits and buoyancy aids for all sessions on the water.

“I think that the LSSS summer scheme is ideal for children who want to get out into the fresh air and learn an exciting new skill during their summer holidays,” grinned Johnny.

According to Martin Coyle the LSSS runs all of its activities to Irish Sailing Association specification.

He added: “We do everything here from taster sessions to improver’s skills. All of our courses run from Monday to Friday, however they can also be tailored to suit individual needs.

You might prefer a tour of Fahan Creek or just a leisurely sail.

“All of our sailing sessions are facilitated by fully qualified and experienced senior instructors, who hold valid first aid certificates. I am also delighted to say that LSSS has recently been complimented by a full Dinghy League, which allows students to continue their sailing in boats with which they are familiar.”

“This year the LSSS summer scheme got underway in May,” explained Charlie McMonagle. “We had 45 Transition Year students form Scoil Mhuire in Buncrana. Their teacher, Eoghan Leonard is a qualified Senior ISA Instructor.

“We were also involved in Derry’s recent Maritime Festival, which saw Inishowen’s Sean McCarter skipper the

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Burnfoot’s Tommy Conwell celebrates 90th Birthday

Tommy and son Killian with Manchester United legend and friend, Harry Gregg and John Lundy

Above: Tommy and his wife Mary Jane prepare to cut the cake to celebrate his 90th birthday Below: Tommy recalls the days when he was often on tour entertaining

Above: A surprise visit from Mary Jane’s son Doug and his wife Donna who flew in from Kansas

Peninsula People

Below: Pat and Elizabeth Lynch with Patrick and Rosemary

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Burnfoot’s Tommy Conwell celebrates 90th Birthday

Peninsula People

Above: Ronan and Nicola Slattery flew in from Dubai with children Sophia, Ryan and Aaron Right: Tommy’s God daughter Angela Hegarty (seated) with Karen Hughes, Conal, Eoin and Jude Left: Dan and Frances Doherty Below: Tommy and Mary Jane with Tommy’s son Killian, wife Leslie and children Rebecca, Hannah and Amelia

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Reflection THE SCULPTOR'S ATTITUDE I woke up early today, excited over all I get to do before the clock strikes midnight. I have responsibilities to fulfill today. I am important. My job is to choose what kind of day I am going to have.

Today I can complain because the weather is rainy or ...

I can be thankful that the grass is getting watered for free.

Today I can feel sad that I don't have more money or ...

I can be glad that my finances encourage me to plan my purchases wisely and guide me away from waste.

Today I can grumble about my health or‌ I can rejoice that I am alive.

Today I can lament over all that my parents didn't give me when I was growing up or ...

I can feel grateful that they allowed me to be born.

Today I can cry because roses have thorns or ...

I can celebrate that thorns have roses.

Today I can mourn my lack of friends or ...

I can excitedly embark upon a quest to discover new relationships.

Today I can whine because I have to go to work or ...

I can shout for joy because I have a job to do.

Today I can complain because I have to go to school or ...

Eagerly open my mind and fill it with rich new knowledge.

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Today I can moan because I have to do housework or...

I can feel honored because the Lord has provided shelter for my mind, body and soul.

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Today stretches ahead of me, waiting to be shaped.

And here I am, the sculptor who gets to do the shaping.

What today will be like is up to me.

I get to choose what kind of day I will have!

- An Appreciation -

William Scott Noel (Billy) Buchanan

By James Buchanan

Billy was born on Christmas Day 1927. He was the third child of James (Jim) and Margaret Buchanan of Inch Level, Burt. He had two older sisters, Eileen and Myrtle and a younger brother John, who predeceased him.

Billy had set his heart on farming. In fact, from a young age, he frequently decided he was needed more on the farm than in school! This resulted in his being dispatched to boarding school in Coleraine to keep him at his studies. He finished school and returned to Inch Level to farm with his father. He also spent some time as an apprentice mechanic with Sheppard Campbell Motor Company.

Billy’s life-long interest in Rugby started in Coleraine and continued at the City of Derry Club, where he was a regular visitor up until very recently.

He eventually met his future wife Nancy Mooney of Borough House, who was a nurse in Belfast. Billy and Nancy were married on August 6, 1953 in All Saints Church, Newtowncunningham. It was an indication of the antics in which Billy had previously been involved that he discovered, later that day, his black car had been whitewashed and the honeymoon suitcases had disappeared.

Billy and Nancy spent the first two years of married life in Elagh Hall, where David was born. Then, in 1955, upon the death of Billy’s father, Jim, they moved back to Inch Level with John and Billy’s mum.

Here, Robert, Hazel and Ann were born. In 1960 Billy and Nancy moved to Castlecooley, Inch Level having been sold to Dr Daniel McDonald, to become part of the Grianan Estate.

Over the years Billy has been a stalwart of Burt Presbyterian Church. He was baptised on March 14, 1928. Billy joined the boy’s auxiliary from 1938. He started singing in the church choir in his teenage years and this love of singing played a large part in his life.

He later joined the Laggan choir, which recorded a number of CDs and was invited to sing in many places throughout Ireland. Billy was always happiest when he was singing and he enjoyed the many friends he made through singing.

Billy was elected to the Church Committee on June 17, 1955 and supervised a number of projects to improve the church property. He was ordained as a ruling elder on December 11, 1960 and also taught Sunday school from 1968 to 1974.

He was also a member of the Badminton, Tennis and Bowling Clubs associated with the church for many years.

Billy fought hard through a number of illnesses and accidents over the years. He was a great man for making friends far and wide. Each holiday or break away he always made new acquaintances. He looked on his periods in hospital as opportunities to meet people and make new friends. Billy was a great story teller and always enjoyed the company of others, especially when there was an opportunity to sing. He was well known in farming circles in Donegal and the North West and took a great interest in the changes

in farming practices over the years.

Billy was a regular at the Senior Citizen’s annual outing and the Christmas Party in St Mary’s Hall in his later years. Nancy was for many years a tireless worker for the Care of the Aged Committee.

In August 2003, family and friends gathered at the Royal Court Hotel in Portrush to celebrate Billy and Nancy’s Fiftieth wedding anniversary. It was a wonderful day celebrating this major milestone in their lives together.

Sadly, Nancy died in January 2010 and her death left a huge gap in the family circle. Billy often reminisced about their early days together.

Billy and Nancy had 16 grandchildren who are dispersed over the globe, so as Billy now joins Nancy again, they have comfort in the knowledge that they have left a strong legacy.

One of Billy’s pearls of wisdom to his grandchildren was, “When you are looking at prospective partners, wall them well”. (For the uninitiated, walling refers to sorting good potatoes from bad.)

Billy is survived by his sons David and Robert and his daughters Hazel and Ann, his daughters-in-law Maria and Lesley and sons-in-law Derek Browne and John Robinson and 16 grandchildren and also his sisters Eileen Walker (Yorkshire) and Myrtle Glenn (Burt) A Service of Thanksgiving for Billy’s life was held in Burt Presbyterian Church on Monday 14th July and was conducted by Rev Jim Lamont after which he was interred in the adjoining Cemetery. This was attended by a large number of friends from far and wide as well as members of the wider Burt Community and this large attendance was testament to the esteem in which Billy was held by all.

Billy’s laughter and craic will be missed by many.

Peninsula People

There was widespread regret in East Donegal and the North West on the death of Billy Buchanan of Castlecooley, Burt on July 11. Billy passed away in Buncrana Community Hospital after a short illness.

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Bernie Whoriskey, Bernadette Bernadette Sharkey and Ann and Ann Sharkey

Annette Burke and Daphne Hannigan

Belvoir Shirt Factory Reunion in Newtowncunningham McKinley sisters, Molly and Patricia

Eileen Doherty, Deirdre Dillon, Carmel and Oliver McDaid, Teresa Carlin and Mairead McLaughlin

Monica Callaghan, Rita Keys, Lizzie Doherty and Mary McLaughlin

Marie Doherty, Bernadette Watson and Teresa McDaid

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Some of the former workers and management of Belvoir Shirts in Newtowncunningham who attended a special reunion Mass in All Saints Church

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Bringing Generations and Communities Together in Muff Photographs: Clive Wasson

Anderson, Megan McLaughlin and Cathal Doherty

been a great thing for them. As you know the elderly can often become isolated, but the garden has facilitated new friendships and new interests. I read a great quote which I think sums up the experience for many of our gardeners, which was "Plant seeds, grow friendships"”.

This shared space has a real community feel to it and can be a platform for many great things in the future. It calls to mind another quote, by Audrey Hepburn, which is “To plant a garden, is to believe in tomorrow”.

Gareth Austin giving a few tips

Ciara McCooey with some of the baked goods

Margaret Reddin enjoying the tasters

Peninsula People

amusing stories while providing many practical time and money saving tips for both the garden and the kitchen. During the event, meals and desserts were prepared in lightening quick time almost entirely from the produce of the garden, emphasising how healthy meals can be faster than packaged ones. Delicious samples were subseMembers of the committee and speakers at Grow it quently passed around - Cook it‚ hosted by the Muff Community Garden to the welcoming auProject, as part of the Muff Festival 2014, from left dience. are Cecila McCooey, John Putt, Irene Harkin, Gareth The Muff Community Austin, Rob Anderson and Kerry Rowan Garden has gone from A very interesting, entertaining, and ed- strength to strength over the past two ucational afternoon took place on Satyears since it began as a green space, urday 2nd August, hosted by the Muff attached to the Warren View Manor Community Garden Project, as part of sheltered housing complex, which was the Muff Festival 2014. People of all kindly donated by the HSE to the comages gathered to enjoy a novel presenmunity. Since then, the project has retation of gardening and culinary inforceived assistance from Groundwork NI mation, called ‘Grow it, Cook it’. and the Border Villages Social IntegraDelivered in an informal and immensely tion Project. Indeed, this initiative is not enjoyable manner, this event benefited only a great example of cross-border beginners and veterans of both codes co-operation, but also one with an of horticulture and cookery. Imparting inter-generational aspect to it as well. their vast knowledge at the event were There are at present eighteen plots in BBC Radio Foyle’s resident horticuluse with the gardeners coming from tural expert, Gareth Austin, and Comthe Muff locality and the area of Culmunity Chef, Kerry Salmon, who more, just over the border in Derry. teamed up to present an exhibition that The garden, which boasts impressive fawas interspersed with laughter and cilities including the use of a polytunnel, greenhouse, raised beds and storage for all, is accessed by all ages of the community from young families with their children, right up to elderly residents of the sheltered housing complex.

Catheryn Hegarty, of Warren View Manor, explains “Many of our residents have beSome of the hard working staff at Grow it-Cook it come involved from left are John Anderson, Shannon White, Kathryn which I believe has

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Clonmany Agricultural Show

No Salt Chef Brian McDermott was given a lesson on how to stir the pot by Cllr. Albert Doherty and Deputy Pádraig MacLochlainn

Caolán Monaghan with mum Sharon and granny Imelda

Fionnaual Coffey, Emma Sweeney, Breid Coffey, Margaret Harkin, Michael and Grainne Coffey

Kiera Gallagher with Eoin, Catriona and Orlaigh O’Hagan

Jim Devenney, Bernard McGuinness and Norman Stewart

Peninsula People

Bridie McLaughlin and Gertrude Houton

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The McLaughlin Girls from Inishowen Motors

Peter McLaughlin and Caroline McCarney with Lawrence Harrigan of Highland Motors

Clonmany Agricultural Show

Need a plumber in a hurry?

Peninsula People

Hegarty Organisers Deirdre s les nd and Brian McCa

Fashion Show by My Sister’s Wardrobe and Mark 2 Menswear

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Carn’s Caolan flying high

Peninsula People

A young Inishowen boy is being tipped to become one of the top model helicopter "pilots" in Europe.

Fourteen-year-old Caolan Arrow, from Woodside in Carndonagh, is flying high after taking up the hobby less than two years ago.

Caolan, a third year pupil at Carndonagh Community School, has already beaten experienced 3D helicopter pilots 30 years his senior.

Caolan, the son of Sean and Katie and sister of Dean, Mark, Shannon, Anthony and twins Sean and Lee, regularly com-

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Caolin and his dad, Sean.

petes against the top model "pilots" in the country and has astounded the country's most experienced "fliers," given the fact he only took up hobby less than 20 months ago.

Caolan's father, Sean, explained how it happened.

"In the run-up to Christmas 2012, he saw a remote helicopter in Smyth's toy shop in Derry which he said he wanted for Christmas so I went on the internet and through Google found a model shop in Maghera in Co Derry.

"Without saying anything to him, I went and got it."

Caolan said the special Christmas present of a TRex Pro 450 battery-powered helicopter was a "big surprise."

Caolan spent three hours a day for a week practising on s simulator which his father had also got for him.

"If I had flown it straight away I would have crashed," he said.

"Even on the simulator I found it very difficult but I was determined to learn how to fly it.

"After week, I felt I was ready to take it out and try it so I went with my dad and my brother, Dean, to the Bay Field in Moville to try it out.

"I was very nervous but I was able to get it up to eye level and 20 feet away.

"I was very relieved I did not crash.

"After further training on the simulator, I went on the next day and got on really great.

"After that, I was out every day if it was not raining or windy."

Within a month, Caolan was able to perform "forward flight" and gradually moved on to "full flight" in basic 3D manoeuvres.

Within six months, Caolan moved on to fly the much bigger and more powerful TRex 500 and then wondered if there were others who shared his interest in flying model helicopters.

"I wanted to meet other people interested in the hobby so I went on the internet and discovered the Letterkenny Model Flying Club based in Raphoe."

After joining the club, Caolan joined MACI (Model Aeronautics Council of

Caolin with his Trex 700E Dominator which can fly up to 100mph.

Caolan's achievement is also remarkable as due to safety concerns, he only gets to practice two to three months a year.

Sean explained: "There are dangers association with flying the bigger machine.

"Its blades are made of carbon fibre and have a five foot wing span. It can reach speeds of 100 miles an hour.

"An experienced pilot was killed in the US when he was hit by his heli's blades after he lost control. So, I am always

Caolin with his collection of model helicopters.

with Caolan when he is practising and as I am at sea for lengthy periods he only gets to practice two or three months a year."

Caolan laughed: "My dad his holding me back!"

Caolan is expected to progress "pro" level when he will get to compete against fellow "pilots" from across Europe.

So, watch this air space!

Peninsula People

Ireland) - not only did it allowed him to "fly" at any flying club in Ireland but also provided him with insurance cover.

Caolan was the first member of the club to "fly" helicopters as its members only "flew" planes.

Club chairman, Seamus O'Donnell, who has 30 years experience flying model aeroplanes, quickly recognised Caolan's potential and encouraged him to enter competitions Caolan did not disappoint in his first competition, held in Shannon in June last year, as he finished in fifth position, an astounding achievement given the fact all the other competitors had much more experience than him.

Caolan quickly progressed to intermediate level and began flying a TRex Nitro 700 with which he came second at a competition held at Carron Flying Club in Co Tipperary in August.

He now "pilots" a Trex 700E Dominator which can fly up to 400 feet in the air and as far as the eye can see.

Caolan will be returning to compete in Tipperary again shortly when he will be among the favourites to win the intermediate category in which he will perform eight set manoeuvres, a three-minute freestyle flight and a three-minute flight to music.

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William & Glennis Whorriskey’s Golden Wedding Anniversary in Burt

Above: William is welcomed home by brother John Above right: William & Glennis with sister Celestine Right: Ciaran and Beryl Bottom right: With brother Brian Left: Teague and Sally

Peninsula People

Below: The Whoriskey Clan

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William & Glennis Whorriskey’s Golden Wedding Anniversary in Burt

Above: William and Glennis arrive in style at the An Grianan Hotel Top right: The McGrath cousins - Margaret, Helen, Annette and Mary Above Right: Agnes McDermott, Breige Grant and Bridie McGrath Right: Owen and Anna Kelly Left: Cutting the cake on their wedding day

The Letterkenny connection - Stephen Whoriskey, Kieran O’Donnell, Paul & James Whoriskey Martina Whoriskey, Caroline O’Donnell, Fiona Eden and Evelyn Whoriskey

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William and old school pal Sean Gallagher

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By Catherine McGinty The sun was rolling high through Buncrana’s sapphire sky as an über glamorous Emma Porter revelled in the accomplishments of her young protégées.

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Touching wood, the hallmark of superstitious thespians the world over, she said: “The Vivid Performances Studio in Tullyarvan Mill has had an absolutely fantastic year, the undoubted highlights of which were our summer show Hansel and Gretel in the Creepy Woods and our summer camp staging of The Lion King.

“We began rehearsing Hansel and Gretel at Easter.

We developed the show through workshops, which dealt with drama, speech work, articulation skills, acting techniques and music.

The Creation Station arts and crafts students, under the stewardship of Gabrielle Henry, made all of our props, which were fantastic.

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Inishowen kids’ Vivid performances We had a modern twist on the old fairytale. We incorporated rhythm and blues, drum and bass and sang the upbeat Pharrell Williams song Happy as our finale “The families and friends who came to see Hansel and

Gretel loved it. They thought that it was marvellous. Some of the parents were pleasantly surprised at how their children had flourished between September and June. They were like completely different kids, full of confidence and happy to

be on the stage,” laughed Emma.

Emma and Gabrielle even persuaded the arts and crafts students to participate in Hansel and Gretel.

Emma recalled: “They

ensemble performance.

“The Lion King performers each made their own shakers and learned about improvisation, percussion, rhythm and timing. Fionn also provided the sound effects and the music for the show. Every child played a character and, I have to say, they were very cute. Again the families loved it. There were cameras flashing everywhere. It was like the red carpet on Oscar’s night.

The whole experience was fun-filled but exhausting.

Having said that, I might organise three summer camps next year,” she mused.

In September, Emma outlined her vision describing Vivid Performances as an interactive arts space.

She said: “I want it to become a hub for the arts. It is here to be used and I would definitely welcome other facilitators, singers, dancers, bands and photographers to come along and make it their own.”

That was exactly what happened, as the

indefatigable Desertegney woman explained.

She said: “We held a Japanese Ibuki Taiko drumming workshop for adults and children, facilitated by Fiona Umetsu from Derry. We did Hip Hop with Elizabeth Curran, of Junk Kouture fame, from Studio 47 in Buncrana and a Vocal workshop with Marie Fitzpatrick from Buncrana.

“These monthly workshops will be continuing this September. Elizabeth is planning a ballet workshop and Urban Vizualz, four amazing young graffiti artists, Karl Porter from Muff and Donal O’Doherty, Ray Bonner and Sean Cavan from Derry, will be leading a Graffiti Art Workshop.

Emma will also be inviting local schools into the Vivid Performances studio.

She said: “I am going to encourage them to avail of the space by organising School Trip Arts Days, themed around Hallowe’en and, dare I say it, Christmas.

We are also going to provide guitar lessons with the talented Eoghan Johnston,

who plays with The Rain.

“One of the most exciting projects currently taking places in the Vivid Performances studio is the Angle Circle for Adults. I love the Angel Circle. It gives participants the opportunity to develop and heighten their own intuition. So they may grow closer to the angelic realms. The course will make a big difference to how you think and feel inside, your self understanding and your life purpose. This course will empower the participant to be on their true path and live their life creatively, successfully and abundantly.”

As we head back into September, it seems as if Vivid Performances is flourishing. It has turned one busy full circle of life in one short year.

Emma also holds speech and drama classes in Inch Hall, Glengad Resource Centre, Little Acorns Montessori Playschool in Carndonagh and St Mary’s Hall in Muff.

She can be found on: facebook.com/vividperforma nces

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performed a dance, which included arts and crafts in the show. For some of those young people, it was their first time on stage but they absolutely loved it. I was so proud of all of the children. I really must thank the staff of Tullyarvan Mill too. They are wonderful. Nothing is ever too much trouble for them.”

Ms Porter certainly did not rest on her laurels when the curtain went down on Hansel and Gretel.

“Sure the craic was only starting,” she laughed. “Vivid Performances then ran two four day summer camps, which catered for 54 children from all over Inishowen. There were kids here from Glengad, Culdaff, Carndonagh and Muff and they all mixed very well and made lots of new friends.

“We had drama, arts and crafts and music, with Fionn Robinson from Letterkenny.

Fionn is a music therapist with the HSE. Throughout last year he facilitated our music classes. His activities included: drumming, instrumental improvisation, song writing, voice and

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CLG Bun An Phobail

Catriona and Cathal McGuinness with Marian McDonald

Curry Night

James Molloy, Seamus Bouvaird and William Russell enjoying the curry Clodagh Warnock, Paul McIvor and Julie Killen

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Grainne, Michael, Sinead and Sarah McCann

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Above: Harpist, Niamh McElhinney Above right: Will and Geraldine Heynes with Kim and Mark Banks Right: Jimmy and Antoinette Heharty with Margaret and Liam O’Kane

CLG Bun An Phobail

Curry Night

Above: Blathnaid McLaughlin, Caroline McClenaghan, Malissa McDermott, Cathy McLaughlin, Gretta McClenaghan and Karen Norris Above right: Aoibh, Mark, Gerard and Patrick Faulkner with the Anglo Celt and Liam Murray Cups Right: Enda Faulkner and Sean McClenaghan tuck in.

Above: Liam Skelly with Donegal Seniors’ and Minors’ Ulster Championship cups Below: The hard working backroom staff who prepared the food

Below right: Annemarie Duffy and Siobhan McLaughlin with the Donegal Teams’ cups

Clara Margey, Joe McBride and Sean McBride with Oran, Oonagh and Danny McDermott

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Ailsa Oxnard and Niamh McLaughlin

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Peninsula Diary Carrowmenagh Community Centre - Parents and Toddlers Group meet every Tuesday morning at 10.30 am. €3 per family Bumbleance - Table quiz in Coyles Bar, Newtowncunningham on Friday 5th September.

Lots of raffle prizes on the night Dunree Boxing Club - The club is now reopen with the new times of Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 7.30pm to 9pm sharp. New members welcome

Friday

15 August

Swilly Gardening Club - Members will assemble on Monday night (18th August) at the Anglers Centre at 7pm sharp to visit two gardens in the locality. Contact 086 357 3145 for more information Rashenny National School- A celebration Ceili to mark the schools 175th anniversary will take place in the Ballyliffin Hotel on Friday 29th August. The ceili will be followed by Charlie’s Country Kitchen. 10pm - 2am Golf Lessons and Activities - Suitable for ages 7 - 18 year olds at North West Golf Club on Thursdays from 6pm. Contact John on 086 390 7072 Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis - Every Tuesday in Buncrana Leisure Centre at 1.30pm. For more details, contact Marian on 086 174 0054 Volunteers Needed - Carndonagh Foroige Club needs your help. Support the young people in your area and ensure that their club is kept open. Contact Foroige’s North Donegal Regional Youth Officer on 086 780 8867 or check ot www.foroige.ie Inishowen Men’s Walking Group - `assemble Supervalu car park on Wednesdays at 7.30pm. Suitable for all levels of fitness. For information on the programme or to start a walking group in your area, please contact Margaret on 086 837 5592 or by email to margaret@inishowen.ie North West Men’s Helpline - Helpline is appealing for volunteers - both male and female, particularly males with relevant interests to assist with their Listening Ear service. Training will be provided. For more details contact 074 939300 between 9.30am and 1pm Monday to Friday.

Wesley Hall Irish Night - Do you remember when Wesley Hall used to host Irish Nights? There is going to be one in the Wesley Hall, Bridge Street, Carndonagh on Friday 22nd August. Admission by ticket only and are available from Fintan’s Corner Cafe and are priced at €10 which includes supper. There will be a sing song, Irish Dancing and Recitations. Seating is limited, so if you want a good night out, get your tickets quickly.

Cairn Theatre Group - The play - ‘Moville, The Bishop and The Big House’ is in the Cairn Theatre every Tuesday until the end of September beginning at 8pm. For more information, contact 074 9381104 Malin Presbyterian Church - Teas will be served each Saturday until the end of August in the Malin Presbyterian Church Hall from 2.30pm until 5pm. The cost is €3 and everyone is welcome to attend.

Bocan Parish Draw - The Parish Council have organised a fund raising draw for the new roof with tickets on sale at €20 each or three for €50. Top prize is a whopping €5,000 with other cash prizes in an€8,000 prize fund.

Promoters will be calling to all houses in the parish and the draw will take place at a social in Bocan Hall on Sunday 31 August.

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Malin Head Heritage Display - Anyone who missed the last Heritage Display will have a further chance to view this great range of photographs including the John Reynolds Collection, and maps, census’ etc. The display will take place in the Malin Head Hall on Wednesday 27th August from 6pm to 9pm

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If you would like to have an event from your area included in our weekly diary simply let us know by email, telephone or drop a note into our office and we will gladly publicise it for you.

There is no charge. email: peninsulapeople@eircom.net Post: Peninsula People, Supervalu Shopping Complex, Carndonagh Telephone: 086 6075077

People in the past...

Scoil Treasa Naofa, Malainn 1951

Name Address

Contact No. Send entries to: Peninsula People Magazine, SuperValu Shopping Complex, Newpark Rd, Carndonagh to arrive by 12 noon on Wednesday

H Across 1. Floorshow (7) 4. Spooky (5) 7. Detection device (5) 9.Vertical (7) 10. Inactivity (7) 11. Measuring implement (5) 12. Dictator (6) 14. Ecclesiastic (6) 18. Copious (5) 20. Drawn (7) 22. Pouch worn with a kilt (7) 23. Diadem (5) 24. Admittance (5) 25. Spiny anteater (7

Down 1. Transported (7) 2. Emblem (5) 3. Tropical bird (6) 4. Mistake (5) 5. Dependable follower (7) 6. Go in (5) 8. Magnitude relation (5) 13. Reinforcement (7) 15. Reasoned judgment (5) 16. Musical passage (7) 17. Opportunity (6) 18. Part of a church (5) 19. Ahead of time (5) 21. Obviate (5)

Win craf a beaut t if loca ed mug ul hand l cra mad ftsp Mov e by e i Rela lle Pott ople at er x cupp and enj y. oy y a in ou own y Pen our ver r insu y l mug a Peopl e

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E Prize Crossword

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Damien is full of beans!

By Catherine McGinty He races a Porsche for a living.

He has whizzed through the iconic streets of Monaco, in the line of work. He once coached Prince Abdulaziz Al Faisal, grandson of King Faisal of Saudi Arabia.

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In addition, Moville’s Damien Faulkner is the only Irish driver participating in all 11 races in IMSA TUDOR United Sports Car Championship 2014.

At home helping out in Faulkner’s XL, his parents, Francis and Kathleen’s sleekly refurbished car dealership, Damien described his Monaco experience as exhilarating.

He said: “Imagine driving a motorbike around your bathroom. That would give you a sense of the power, control and skill needed to negotiate the Principality’s twisty, narrow streets.

Having said that, however, I am just as

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happy servicing cars here in the garage or serving our customers petrol or ice cream.

“I split my time between the US, Donegal and Dublin, where my wife Laura and I have our home in Malahide.

I like living near the sea and will, hopefully, have a house in Inishowen before too long.”

Damien recently signed a two-year contract with the GB (Global Barista) Autosport team and was infectiously animated about his new racing car.

He enthused: “Number 81 Tully’s Coffee is a Porsche 911 GT America, which was built by Porsche Motorsport exclusively for this year’s new United Sports Car Championship series and new GT Daytona class. It is based on the seventh generation of the Porsche 911 street car and represents an enhanced version of the highly

Champion in 2005 and 2006 and the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup ViceChampion in 2007 and 2008.

He recalled: “One of the highlights of my career so far was winning my first American Le Mans race at the 2011 Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring. I love my job. I have not really looked back since I won a voucher for the Mondello Park Racing School twenty years ago. I was hooked that day and started planning for a career in racing, “Thankfully. things went well for me I won my first Championship when I was

19-years-old and went on to win the 1994 Champion Irish Formula Ford, the 1995 Champion British Formula Vauxhall Junior W series, the 1997 Champion British Formula Renault Sport Winter Trophy and the 2000 Champion European Formula Palmer Audi Series.

“I was always mechanically minded.

When I was wee, I was constantly taking things apart to see how they worked, unlike my brother Liam and my sister Anne Marie. I was driving by the age of nine and at 12, I could service a car. I had a very happy childhood growing up in mum and dad’s garage,” grinned Damien.

Taught by Redcastle’s Mr and Mrs Packie and Sheila McLaughlin at the smallest national school in Ireland, Damien progressed to Carndonagh Community School.

He said: “At that time Carndonagh was the biggest school in Ireland. What a change. From there I did a FÁS mechanical engineering course at Letterkenny Institute of Technology.

However, I remember seeing a Formulae One race on the television and I absolutely fell in love with the sport.

“All in all I am very satisfied that I can combine my racing career with working in the family business. I am proud of our roots in the Moville community and I look forward to servicing cars here in the garage for many years to come. I will have to take it easy on the 99’s though.”

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successful Porsche 911 GT3 Cup. “The GB (Global Barista) Autosport team is making its debut in the IMSA TUDOR United Sports Car Championship this year, under the leadership of veteran team manager, Cole Scrogham. TUDOR is a North American competition, which was formed as a result of a merger between the American Le Mans Series and the Rolex Sports Car Series.

“We have just competed in the Sahlen’s Six Hours of the Glen race. It took place at Watkin’s Glen International and was one of the toughest events of the season so far. The conditions were very hot and humid and the 3.4 miles long track at Watkins Glen International was extremely physically demanding.

However, it is one of the best circuits in the United States, if not the world,” added Damien.

Damien shared the driving of the 600minute race with team-founder Mike Avenatti from Sacramento and newcomer Ben Barker from England.

“I was delighted that we finished ninth in the race and that I laid down the fastest lap, 1:50.172. Up until then our results have not matched the hard work we had put in or the combined skill and experience of the team. A top ten finish was just what the Tully’s Coffee team deserved.”

Unsurprisingly motor racing aficionados have designated Damien Faulkner one of the finest Porsche drivers in the world. He was the Porsche Carrera GB

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