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Issue 79

Thursday 9th January 2014 EVERY FORTNIGHT

p10 A girls best friend - No, not diamonds – when local girl Lauren Hurley lost her sight, it was a four legged friend who gave her back her life…

Free as a

BIG INTERVIEW... p13

Bird ONLY £1.25

FEATURE p40

PICTORIAL p46

Loreto attempt longest Christmas cracker chain for Guinness World Book of Records

New Year's Eve Loughmacrory run attracts almost 700 entries.

Official Government Test Environmental Data. Fuel consumption figures mpg (litres/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km). Vauxhall range (excl. Ampera): Urban: 14.4 (19.6) – 76.3 (3.7). Extra-urban: 27.4 (10.3) – 91.1 (3.1), Combined: 20.6 (13.7) – 85.6 (3.3). CO2 emissions: 324-88g/km. *Finance available on selected models only at participating retailers. Subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. Applicants must be 18 or over. Guarantee/Indemnity maybe required. Finance supplied by either Vauxhall Motor Finance RH11SR or Vauxhall Finance, PO Box 6666, Cardiff CF15 7YT. 24-60 month term excluding ADAM models (24-48 month term. **Vauxhall Deposit Contribution excludes ADAM, Mokka, Cascada and Corsa SXi models, or in conjunction with Astra GTC free insurance offer, other exclusions apply. Offer will apply to Vauxhall Associate Partners only. All other customers are excluded. Vauxhall Partners includes all employees and pensioners of nominated companies and their nominated eligible relatives. Vauxhall Partners discount is in addition to all other retail offers, and is applicable to the vehicle, factory fitted options, number plates and delivery. We reserve the right to change or withdraw any aspect of the Vauxhall Partners Programme without prior notice. Vauxhall Lifetime Warranty covers lifetime ownership of first registered keeper, 100,000 mile limit. Terms and conditions apply. Offers available on new vehicle orders or registrations between 14 and 17 June 2013 at participating retailers. Models shown for illustrative purposes only and may be fitted with options available at extra cost. We can introduce you to a limited number of finance providers, commission may be received. Correct at time of going to print.

Welcome...

ISSUE 79 | JAN 9TH 2014 48

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12

7

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Big Interview

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Next generation of storytellers celebrated at South West College

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Hazel Wand stars and Line dancers entertain shoppers

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Greencastle 5 mile road race

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Loreto's cracker Christmas

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5 resolutions to keep this New Year

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Eskra past and present charity match

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A brand new year!

And our season’s greetings go out to each and every one of you – hopefully you all had a good rest over the festive season and are now raring to go in 2014, whatever your goals and plans for the coming year may be. On that note, to kick off our first issue of the new year, why not check out our soundbites from some of Omagh’s well-known faces about what they’re hoping to achieve over the next 12 months?

New Year is also a good time to take stock of the bigger picture; but there’s one local man who gets the chance to do that on a very regular basis when he takes to the skies above Omagh in his paramotor – check out our interview with Gordon Dunn to find out more about his fascinating (and slightly scary!) hobby.

We also had a lovely chat with a very inspiring young woman and her mum about the four-legged family member who has transformed all their lives. Lauren Hurley suffers from a degenerative eye condition, but even her doctors were taken by surprise when she suddenly went blind at 18. But Lauren has always been determined not to let her condition hold her back, and since getting her guide dog Sparky, she’s back living life to the full just like any other girl her age!

This issue is absolutely jammed with photographs – Pat’s been hot-footing it around all sorts of pre- and post-Christmas celebrations, from office parties to charity fundraisers.

Check out the glamour of Dromore’s St John’s High School formal, the dedicated souls at the Lough 5 New Year’s Eve run and the annual Greencastle Boxing Day 5 Miler, festive line dancers on Main Street, birthday celebrations for the Hawkes family, Gordon Graham & Maggie Connolly, Christmas spirit on Gallows Hill and piles more! There’s even an influx of festive ‘sparklers’ – check out pics of four lucky lads who managed to put a ring on it over the festive period!

That should be enough to keep you going for a while – full marks to those who have noticed our fresh new look for the new year – we will see you in a fortnight with more of your local stories and events, and as ever, if there’s something you’d like us to cover, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

READ/BUY OMAGH TODAY ONLINE at www.omaghtoday.com

CONTACT US EDITORIAL

Claire Martin - 077 2563 1646 | claire@omaghtoday.com Post to: Omagh Today, 79 Moylagh Road, Beragh, Omagh, Co. Tyrone, BT79 0UN

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Pat McSorley - 077 1284 0985 | pat@omaghtoday.com

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AS A

Omagh’s ‘eye in the sky’ Gordon Dunn tells us more about his fascinating hobby and shares some images of Omagh as you’ve never seen it before…

S

TRAP an engine and a parachute to your back, do a running take-off and spend a few hours zooming about in the skies up to 10,000 feet above Omagh – sounds like something only the most daredevil of adrenaline junkies would attempt, right?

Not so, in fact – or certainly not in the case of Omagh man Gordon Dunn, whose passion for aviation is firmly measured by his respect for the weather and various other safety considerations he must take into account before heading skyward aboard his paramotor – a paraglider with an engine attached.

Gordon has been paramotoring for the best part of a decade, but his passion for his hobby isn’t driven by reckless thrillseeking; and while it’s not entirely riskfree, you might say that paramotoring is the airborne equivalent of ‘Sunday driving’, undertaken in comfort, at a pace leisurely enough to allow the driver to fully appreciate his surroundings.

Mind you, it’s not quite as simple as jumping in the car and turning the key.

Gordon has always had an interest in flying and previously flew model aircraft, so when a friend introduced him to the world of paramotoring he knew instantly

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he wanted to try it – but that meant travelling to France where he spent a week completing an intensive training course that would allow him to fly solo.

“There are schools here in Ireland,” he explains, “but you are so much at the mercy of the weather and you really need ten good days in a row to complete the course. It was pretty intensive – there’s a lot to learn, from air laws and weather to assembling and packing your equipment and parachute, techniques for takeoff and landing and also safety and emergency training.

“You do a lot of practicing on the ground without the power pack so I still remember my first proper flight – I went through all the steps I’d been practicing before but then suddenly the power pack and the wing took over and I was 50 feet in the air – it was incredible!”

Since completing the course in France in 2005, Gordon has racked up an impressive 500 hours of flying time and has travelled all over Ireland, using a slightly modified bike rack to transport his equipment. The freedom of paramotoring is what appeals to him most; weather permitting, he can take off from any flat piece of ground and for less than a fiver he can spend up to

three hours exploring in the skies.

“From the minute you lift off you have more or less complete freedom,” he says.

“The only real restriction is the weather; we can’t fly when it’s wet or if wind speeds are above 10 miles an hour, but what people don’t realize is that in warm, dry weather the thermal activity can also cause problems so in summer I usually fly early in the morning or just before sunset. But in the right conditions I can go out in the morning before work and be up to Carrickmore and back in an hour or so. The freedom to enjoy the scenery is the biggest thing for me. I’ve always been interested in photography and now I carry a camera with me nearly every time I fly – people ask if I get bored of looking at the same scenery all the time but my honest answer is that it’s never the same two days in a row. It’s always changing and from the air, you can really appreciate the changing seasons – it’s amazing to watch it go from this patchwork of vibrant green through to the rich colours of autumn and then the bleak brown of winter and back again. We have beautiful scenery in this area – the views around Mullaghcarn are some of my favourite anywhere. It’s interesting to watch the townscape changing with the

various building projects going on too.”

Gordon has taken thousands of photographs during his many hours of flying and the resulting images are quite unique. The paramotor’s capacity for flying low, and at fairly slow speeds, means it’s an ideal vehicle from which to capture stunning images of local scenery and landmarks in jaw-dropping detail – everything from the spires of the Sacred Heart and the Tyrone and Fermanagh Hospital to lesser known features of the local landscape such as the fairy ring at Cavanacaw or the old graveyard at Donaghanie.

He also goes farther afield from time to time – the north coast is a favourite spot – and perhaps unsurprisingly, he’s had some pretty memorable in-flight moments.

“You do see some unusual sights from time to time! Once I was flying near Strabane and I saw something up ahead of me in the sky; I couldn’t figure out if it was a small thing close to me or a big thing far away – but when I looked again I realised it was a Ryanair jet heading in to land at the City of Derry Airport! I don’t normally carry a radio and I tend to avoid airspace that might be busy because it’s

not really safe so it felt surreal to be so close to a large aircraft like that. Another time I was flying along the coastline near Castlerock, just admiring the scenery, when I saw a Navy Lynx helicopter flying towards me. The pilot was probably doing the same as me and I was very aware that he probably couldn’t see me so I tilted my canopy to make myself more visible and was amazed to watch as he turned 90 degrees, flew past me, and then turned 90 degrees back to resume his original flight path!

“I’ve seen wild geese flying in formation – I had to be careful not to get too close and spook them, but I was close enough that I could see the geese turning their heads to look at me while still flying in a ‘v’ which was fantastic to see. Once I got to play with a dolphin from the air, he was chasing the shadow I was casting on the surface of the water below – not something you get to see every day!”

Not all of Gordon’s stand-out moments have been positive, though – he’s proof that even the most cautious pilots can get into unexpected difficulties, although thankfully he’s also proof that a cool head and good training can get you out of many a scrape, as he explains: “It happened over Drumnakilly; I had been out for a flight from Killyclogher to Carrickmore and was on my way home, about ten minutes from landing when everything suddently went quiet – the engine had

cut out. Part of your flight training is to always keep in mind that you might need to make an emergency landing so as I go along I’m always keeping an eye out for a potential landing site should I need it, and once the engine stopped my training just kicked in. I checked my altimeter and I was at 500 feet so I knew there was no chance of getting the engine restarted and I was definitely going down. I had already picked my landing spot and 25 seconds later I was safely on the ground – I didn’t even have time to think about it! I stowed my gear in a hedge and flagged down a passing motorist who gave me a lift back to my car, then I collected my equipment and went home. It wasn’t until later that I had time to think about what had happened and I suppose I did feel a bit shaky, but I did everything I should have done, it was a textbook landing and I was able to find out what was wrong with the engine and fix it so there was never any doubt that I would fly again. I was a bit nervous the first time I went up afterwards but I soon got over that and I’ve never looked back.”

Even in the winter time Gordon averages one flight per week and although there are a number of other paramotoring enthusiasts in the local area, if you see somebody zipping about under canopy in the skies above the town, chances are it’s him! And when he’s not flying – or working as a design engineer at Terex, or busy being dad to his two young sons – he spends a lot of time in front of the computer, sorting and editing photos and videos from his flights, which he then uploads to the internet for other people to enjoy. The images offer a new perspective on some of the town’s best-known areas and a visit to Gordon’s Flickr profile or his website, www.gordondunn.co.uk comes highly recommended. The images are also available for sale and make beautiful pieces of landscape art for your home.

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TALKOFTHETOWN Locals named in New Year Honours list THE New Year began with extra celebrations for a handful of local people after it was revealed they had been recognised in the Queen’s New Year Honours list.

Four honours will be handed to people from Omagh, including PSNI chief superintendent Pauline Shields, who was awarded the OBE; John Hadden, chairman of Techno Tyrone Ltd and Omagh High School governor Ronnie Oldcroft, who both got an MBE; and Lynda Hill, founder of Grovehill Animal Trust, who will receive the British Empire Medal (BEM).

Chief Superintendent Shields has provided the community with 27 years’ service, performing a number of roles in both urban and rural environments, most recently as the District Commander for F District, covering Tyrone and Fermanagh. Her leadership has focused on building relationships with communities and their representatives, and she is an active advocate of women in policing and an ambassador for the leadership role of women both in policing and the wider business community.

Ronnie Oldcroft is from Sixmilecross and has been involved in education locally for more than ten years; currently occupying the chair of the board of governors at both Cooley Primary School and Omagh High School – which earlier this year became the first controlled post-primary school to achieve an ‘outstanding’ grade from inspectors.

Mr Oldcroft said he was ‘humbled’ by the honour and paid tribute to all pupils and staff at the school including former principals Cynthia Hamilton and Lewis Love as well as current principal Ian McConaghy. “I believe education benefits all of society and young people today need to take every opportunity to

acquire new skills,” he said.

Also receiving the MBE, retired businessman John Hadden from Loughmacrory said he was ‘pleased and honoured’ to be recognized for his services to economic development and rural regeneration. Mr Hadden has spent much of his career involved in supporting local enterprise, most notably with Carrickmore-based community company Techno Tyrone, which was established in 1991 with a view to creating more jobs and keeping skilled labourers employed in their local area.

Meanwhile well-known local animal welfare activist Lynda Hill has expressed her shock and delight at being awarded the BEM. A dog groomer by trade, Lynda rescued her first dog from Omagh pound in 1997 and since then she has saved and rehomed thousands of abandoned animals.

She said: “I will be receiving my BEM on behalf of every animal who's future I had the pleasure of playing a part in, and on behalf of every owner who gave each one of those 10,000 animals a loving new home. I also will take the great pleasure of receiving this award on behalf of every single person who has helped and supported me over all the years since I saved the very first dog from death in Omagh pound in 1997.”

Lynda also paid tribute to her family and friends, to the volunteers at Grovehill Animal Shelter and also to her husband Malcolm who, she said, was also deserving of a medal!

Also receiving the BEM is Ruth Montgomery, secretary of the Clogher Valley Agricultural Society, for services to the community in Clogher.

Protesters highlight value of ATU services as consultation period is extended Service users campaigning against the closure of the Addictions Treatment Unit (ATU) at Arvalee in Omagh gathered at the facility on Monday evening for a picket to highlight their views on the proposed move.

The picket, which took place before an open meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous at the ATU, was scheduled to take place just days before a consultation period on the closure was due to end but earlier this week it was revealed that the deadline has been extended from January 10 to January 24. A representative of the Health and Social Care Board said the purpose of the extension was to ensure that everyone had the opportunity to share their views.

Protesters against the closure are urging local people to respond to the consultation. Not only are they adamant that addiction services should be retained, they are pushing for an extension in the level of service from 4.5 to seven days a week.

The closing date for consultation responses is Friday January 24 at 5pm. Responses or requests for information or alternative formats should be emailed to tier4addiction.consultation@hscni. net or in writing to: Tier 4 Consultation, Social Care Directorate, omaghtoday | 6

Health and Social Care Board, 12-22 Linenhall Street, Belfast, BT2 8BS or telephone 028 9032 1313. To view the consultation document visit www.hscboard.hscni.net/consult.

Gabrielle McAleer, a service user protest at the Unit.

Balloon launch for loved ones

Santa was assisted by Care for Cancer's president Joan Hamilton and Chairman Ivan Gilmour for their recent balloon launch when hundreds of balloons, with messages to a loved one attached, were launched at the Grange Park, Omagh.

The event was part of the group's 25th anniversary celebrations.

Ellen Jane's dance for Action MS

Anne Walker, (right) Director of Action MS being presented with a cheque for ÂŁ1405 from Ellen Jane Conroy and her daughter Linda. The money was raised through a dance which Ellen Jane organised in Galbally Community Centre.

Attempted arson attack on car POLICE in Omagh are investigating an incident of criminal damage after a red Renault type car was damaged while parked in the Beechgrove area of Omagh.

An attempt was made to burn the bodywork at the rear of the car sometime around the 27th or 28th of December. Anyone who can help police with their enquiries is asked to contact them on 0845 600 8000. Alternatively information about crime can be passed anonymously via the independent Crimestoppers number on 0845 600 8000. omaghtoday | 7

Thank God that’s over…

Bessie Belle

An Omagh’s girl’s take on life...

So, thankfully, I still have a job after the shenanigans at our Christmas office party. I went in on the Monday with a feeling of dread but everyone was completely normal and the do was never mentioned, not once! Even in the kitchen during lunch break, when yer wan opened the cupboard to get a plate and a pair of knickers fell out; nobody batted an eyelid! She just chatted on, picked them up and fired them in the bin. She didn’t miss a beat.

I was just relieved they weren’t mine. I get the feeling there’s a silent agreement over these kind of things and it’s probably not the first time it has happened. I’m happy to go along with it though.

So everyone made it through Christmas in one piece, I presume?

Was it just me or was the TV rubbish this year? If you were a fan of Harry Potter, Indiana Jones or Star Wars you would have been happy enough but for the rest of us there was nothing at all to distract from the box of Roses and the feeling of anti-climax. Really, though, what do we expect? Every year we go through Christmas imagining it to be all, “It’s a Wonderful Life” and actually it is…it’s like the start of the film when Jimmy Stewart’s all depressed and hopeless. In real life there’s no angel Clarence to make you see what REALLY matters…it’s all just crap from beginning to end.

But I’ll tell you something, I’m resolving to NOT do stuff this year. I resolve never to go on a diet ever again because they all just make you put weight ON. Here’s why. For the first week you kill yourself

walking, down gallons of water and get your calories from licking vegetables. But it works and you might lose four pound. And you’re so happy with yourself you think you deserve a wee treat and your wee treat tastes soooo good because you haven’t had solid food in 7 days. Then before you know it, you can’t get enough food into yer gob until you literally can’t get any more food into yer gob. Then you get really disappointed in yourself and the only thing that will cheer you up is more food and before you know it, you’ve put the 4 pound back on plus another three for good measure. That is one vicious circle!

I also resolve never to give up drink again. I probably should, because too much of it is really not good for you but you just can’t do without it because people are so boring! If I don’t drink, I don’t socialise and as much as I love my own company, man is not an island, as they say. I will definitely not resolve to give up smoking because I don’t smoke. I might even start smoking; look at Kate Moss, it hasn’t done her any harm. I will also not resolve to spend more time with my family. If you knew my family, you’d understand.

So I’m starting 2014 resolving nothing and that means this year will be better than any other year of my life because I won’t end the first month of the year being a failure. Some aul boy said "Ever tried? Ever failed? No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better.” I say don’t even try and you save yourself a wile lot of bother.

Model pupils visit model residents at Bessie Bell Court

Year seven pupils from Newtownstewart Model Primary School with John Harding, Digital Age tutor, and staff and residents at Bessie Bell Court when the pupils joined their friends for a celebration party to mark the successful completion of their calendar.

Residents of Clanmill Housing's Bessie Bell Court independent living housing scheme for older people in Newtownstewart were joined by the local school to celebrate the end of a successful inter-generational digital media project.

The project was part of the Digital Age Project initiative which supports the technological advancement of older people while helping them to understand how relevant technology can be to their lives, and was facilitated by Linking Generations NI and the omaghtoday | 8

Worker’s Educational Association.

As part of the project connections are formed between sheltered housing schemes and schools in their areas to foster long-term and meaningful relationships between the younger and older people.

People living at Bessie Bell Court and the children have enjoyed using the internet for research, interviewing each other and exploring digital photography to create a calendar, while learning valuable social and digital media skills through their interaction.

Over the past 8 weeks, with the help of tutor John Harding, a group of tenants from Bessie Bell Court have enjoyed digital learning sessions with the pupils in the school’s computer suite and have even joined them for lunch in the school canteen

McAleer Jackson: New image, same great service!

OMAGH-based Chartered Accountants and Tax Advisers McAleer Jackson are pleased to announce their new corporate identity, which incorporates a shortened trading name (formerly McAleer Mullan Jackson).

Managing Director, Hugh McAleer said: “The new logo was designed to promote the modern, progressive and professional values of the practice. The design has been simplified, mirroring our approach of simplifying complex financial matters for our clients. Whilst our image is being updated, the key message is that there will be no change to our trademark high quality service.”

McAleer Jackson offers a comprehensive service to clients in a wide range of industries and sectors including farming, retail, engineering, renewable energy and professional services. The firm is at the forefront of local practices, with a total of nine qualified Chartered Accountants within its ranks, backed by a strong team of support staff, trainee accountants and tax advisers.

The specialist Tax Department, under the guidance of Chartered Tax Adviser Arnold Jackson, offers a range of advice and services in all areas of tax, from Self Assessment and general compliance to Inheritance Tax, Capital Gains and Company Taxation.

The firm also has considerable expertise in Limited Company Formation, IT Consultancy, Corporate Finance and Business Sales/Purchases.

This specialist knowledge has been of great benefit to clients, minimising their tax liabilities and assisting their businesses grow.

Pictured right are directors Hugh McAleer, Pauline McAleer and Arnold Jackson, along with their staff, outside the firm’s premises at Dublin Road, Omagh. omaghtoday | 9

A girl’s

best

friend No, not diamonds – when local girl Lauren Hurley lost her sight, it was a four legged friend who gave her back her life…

WHAT’S black and shiny with a wet nose and can completely change your life? No, this isn’t a lame Christmas cracker joke, it’s a real question – and the answer, for one local girl at least, is a dog named Sparky.

Omagh student Lauren Hurley was just four years old when she first began having problems with her eyesight. Teachers noticed her bumping into things but tests didn’t show anything wrong with her eyes until she was a few years older when doctors noticed that the retinas in her eyes were much paler than normal. Even so, they remained unsure as to exactly what the problem was and although she regularly attended the low vision clinic and had appointments with ophthalmologist Dr Hassett at Tyrone County Hospital, as long as she wore glasses Lauren was able to lead a normal life both at school and at home. Finally, just after Lauren started secondary school she was sent to see consultant opthalmologist and genetics expert at the Royal Victoria Hospital, Mr Colin Willoughby who diagnosed her with the degenerative eye disease, Retinitis Pigmentosa. This is a rare disease more commonly seen in older people which leads to progressive sight loss and can result in blindness. In Lauren’s case, because of her age, nobody could give a firm prognosis of how bad her eyesight might get or how fast the disease would progress – all she and her family could do was wait and see.

Life continued as normal until 2010, when Lauren had just begun studying for her GCSE year at the Sacred Heart.

“I started noticing the words moving off the page when I was trying to read, I was struggling with night blindness and my eyes were just really sore,” she explains.

“We got an emergency appointment with Mr Willoughby and after he examined my eyes he explained that they were omaghtoday | 10

deteriorating much faster than they had expected. From that day on I was registered as partially sighted.”

For many teenagers the diagnosis would have been devastating, but not Lauren – in fact, mum Julie says that as her daughter’s sight has deteriorated over the years, so her self confidence has grown and she’s now more outgoing than ever! With the support of her friends from school and the help of a classroom assistant, Lauren was back at her desk and studying hard just two days later.

“The school were brilliant,” she says. “My

c l a ss ro o m assistant Marian McSorley was fantastic and they just sorted everything I needed, the large print format reading materials and voice technology for the computer, and I had help from Anna Nugent at the Western Trust with using all the technology. They made sure nothing was standing in my way and I passed seven GCSEs later that year.”

Lauren returned to school the following September to sit her AS levels and when her studies were completed in June 2012 she and her family went out for dinner to celebrate. But Lauren’s evening was marred by sore eyes.

Mum Julie says: “She woke up the following morning and complained that her eyes were sore and that they were really strange, as if a veil had been pulled down. For the first time ever I was calm, because they had explained to us that cataract formation is quite common in people with RP, so I said I would make an appointment in Belfast for that Monday.

Lauren had already been in Belfast the previous week for routine tests and so when we arrived to see Mr Willoughby on the Monday he already knew – Lauren’s retinas had died and she had lost her sight completely. That was the worst day of our lives – we came home and we just cried and cried. But then typical Lauren, she got up the next morning and just said ‘I can’t change it’ and so we took our lead from her and just got on with life.”

Before Lauren was registered blind she had said that perhaps one day she’d like to get a guide dog and she put her name on the waiting list when she was

15. Not long after she lost her sight for good, Lauren began training with Steve Andrews from Guide Dogs for the Blind in preparation for her being matched with a suitable dog.

Matching can be quite a complex procedure; the dog’s size, breed and gait are all closely tailored to the recipient’s height, walking speed and general family life. The first dog that came to the Hurley household turned out not to be a match – but a short time later as the family were preparing to head off on their summer holiday to Jersey, they got a call. A dog had been identified in Scotland and local co-ordinator Jackie was confident of a good match.

And she was right – from the minute Lauren and Sparky laid eyes on each other in was love! Four months ago, Sparky moved in with the Hurleys and after a sixweek bedding in period he was already one of the family.

Having Sparky has transformed Lauren’s life: “I used to be really good with my cane but once I got Sparky I stopped using it and now I hate using it. I was never nervous with him, I trusted him right from the first minute and he has given me my independence back; now I can go to the shop or into the town on my own – I even did all my Christmas shopping myself.

He’s just the loveliest dog – he’s great with my wee sisters and even though he is so well trained he still has his moments of madness too. Once a week we take him for a ‘free run’ where he isn’t working, he’s just able to kick up his heels and be a dog and he loves that. None of us could imagine life without him now!”

Now studying business administration at South West College, having Sparky means Lauren can enjoy life like any other student – eating out, trips to the cinema and parties are all possible. He even went along when she recently met singer and RNIB ambassador Andrea Begley when she visited the Strule Arts Centre for the launch of their spring programme!

And Sparky has also changed Julie’s life, because she recently became treasurer of Omagh’s brand new branch of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association. The branch has been set up by Brian McDonagh who has been a great support to the Hurley family and who previously ran the Derry branch of the charity.

“Our main objective really is just to raise awareness,” he said. “A lot of people don’t realize that you don’t have to be blind to have a guide dog, and that visually impaired people can apply as well, so we are going out to give talks and get the word out there for people whose lives could be improved by having a guide dog. We are also fundraising, because Guide Dogs is a charity and we receive no government funding whatsoever.

Anybody who is interested in helping us out or volunteering can visit www.guidedogs. org.uk, contact me by emailing brian. mcdonagh53@talktalk.net or ring 07514 084688.

Got free time? You could make a difference in 2014 THIS year, would you like to meet new people, try something new, develop new skills, improve employability or simply make a difference in your local community? Whatever resolutions you make for 2014, volunteering a little of your time can provide the perfect opportunity to achieve many of your goals.

Omagh Volunteer Centre works with a diverse range of organisations across the district who need volunteers to enable them to deliver services to local people.

Michelle McRory, Volunteer Centre Manager explains: “The Volunteer Centre has many years experience of working with volunteers and volunteer involving organisations. People are motivated to volunteer for many different reasons. The contribution that is made by volunteers across Omagh cannot be overstated. Without their input in every area of community life, it would be impossible to deliver many key community based services.”

Current volunteering opportunities registered with the Volunteer Centre include volunteer befrienders, coaches

and mentors required by organisations such as Mencap, Guide Dogs NI, Action on Hearing Loss and Tyrone and Donegal Partnership. These volunteers roles support service delivery to people with a learning or sensory disability.

Organisations including RNIB and NI Hospice need volunteers in Omagh to help set up local support groups to raise vital funds and awareness of their work across the district.

Michelle continued: “At the beginning of the New Year, we are encouraging young and older people, students, people who are retired or those presently not in work, to get involved and to recognise the multiple benefits from giving even a little of their spare time. If a new volunteer has a particular area of interest, we will support them to explore available opportunities.”

If you or someone you know, is interested in finding out more about volunteering, get in touch with the Volunteer Centre. Phone Michelle on 0785 444 6821 or 028 82 240 772, email omatghvc2@yahoo.co.uk, or call to the office at 1st Floor, Community House, Drumragh Ave.

Donations for Omagh Area Downs Syndrome Group

Above: Siobhan O'Neill presents a cheque for £3,656 to Omagh Area Downs Syndrome Group representatives Maeve and Ann Marie Grimes.

Siobhan organised a Pampered Chef party in Beragh GAA Pavilion. Siobhan would like to thank the Red Knights club for the use of their premises, Cathal Grimes for the PA and MC duties and friends, family and all who attended the event.

Above: Delma McSwiggan of Drumlea P.O., Gortin handing over a cheque for £1021 to Ann Marie and Maeve Grimes representing the Omagh Area Downs Syndrome Group.

The money was raised through a Christmas draw in the Post Office and shop.

Delma would like to thank all those people who supported the Annual Christmas Draw especially those who donated the prizes, all who bought tickets and especially those who went out of their way to buy tickets and make a donation. It was very much appreciated.

Thanks again to all who made this draw so successful. omaghtoday | 11

Enterprising Young Enterprise students Left: St. Ciaran's College with The Firs residents at their Crafti Creations stall.

Right: Sacred Heart College's Woof 'n Wares stall.

Left: CBS students with their IllumiNight products.

Right: Loreto and CBS students at the Young Enterprise NI Trade Fair on Main Street in December.

Below: Loreto Grammar students, Arvalee School, Dean Brian MaGuirc College and Academy students man their impressive stalls.

Young Enterprise NI – the leading business education charity – along with students from local schools held a Trade Fair on Wednesday, December 11 at Main Street, Omagh The Trade Fair, one of many organised throughout Northern Ireland, was attended by young people taking part in the Young Enterprise NI Company Programme from St. Ciaran’s College, Omagh Academy, Loreto Grammar School, Omagh CBS, Sacred Heart College, Dean Maguirc College and those with special educational needs from The Firs Daycare Centre and Arvalee School & Resource Centre who are taking part in the Young Enterprise NI Team Programme.

Marty McColgan, Chairman of Omagh District Council, commented “It’s great to see the enthusiasm of these young people who are being asked to not only start a business, but to market and manage

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that business. It really bodes well for the future. Their products are top class” Young Enterprise NI Trade Fairs form a crucial part of the ‘Company Programme’. As students build confidence in managing their businesses and trading with the public, they acquire key skills that are transferable to self-employment, employment and further education. More than 100,000 young people take part in Young Enterprise NI programmes each year.

Young Enterprise NI is a charity and is part-funded by the Department of Education. For further information and for details volunteering and fundraising opportunities please visit www.yeni. co.uk.

Above: Baby boy born at Altnagelvin Hospital pictured with proud parents Mark and Laura Colhoun from Drumquin.

THERE was something of a New Year baby boom at the local maternity units with six babies born on January 1 in Western Trust hospitals – and three of them to overjoyed local families!

The first Omagh baby to make her entrance on New Year’s Day just after the midnight bells chimed was little Sarah, weighing 7lb 13oz, safely delivered to parents Catherine Gallagher and Aaron McEnhill.

At Altnagelvin Area Hospital, Drumquin couple Mark and Laura Colhoun welcomed the New Year and a new son when their bundle of joy made his appearance at 7.45am weighing 7lb 7oz, and at 11.10am proud mum Louise Quinn finally got go hold baby Ryan, weighing a

dinky 5lb 7oz, in her arms for the very first time, making it an extra special and unforgettable day for all concerned!

Our huge congratulations go to all the proud mummies and daddies and welcome to the world little ones!

Right: New Year baby boy Ryan pictured with mum Louise Quinn from Omagh.

Left: Baby Sarah born on New Year’s Day at the South West Acute Hospital pictured with proud parents Catherine Gallagher and Aaron McEnhill from Omagh.

Pictures courtesy of John McVitty and Martin McKeown

Santa and the Mohicans visits Omagh Autism Club

Omagh Autism Club invited Santa along to their Christmas celebration in Omagh Youth Club on Saturday, 14th December. Also joining in the party were their Mohican fundraisers Kevin McColgan and Pete Breslin who are pictured above with Dr. Jo Deehan, Santa and Omagh District Council Chairman Marty McColgan. The brave pair, who have been growing their mohicans since October, have chosen World Autism Day, 2nd April for their shave off. Anyone wishing to sponsor Pete or Kevin can log onto www.justgiving.com/petebreslinkevinmccolgan or contact any member of the Omagh Autism Club. Money raised will go to the club and in particular the purchase of equipment that will aid stimulus such as visual, touch and audio. omaghtoday | 13

Postcards can often act like a key to the past. They help bring to life events and stories that have been locked away in old newspapers and books. A postcard like this provides the reason to go looking for more information. The first thing to say from an historical point of view is that the image itself provides dating information. The markings on the plane date it from 1917/1918 period and the location on the title places it firmly in place.

Furthermore we know that the photographer was Henderson from Newtownstewart. Incidentally Henderson had several businesses in Newtownstewart but one in particular was the coal business which was in premises on the street side of Stewart Castle. It is easy to imagine the commotion as news of the plane crash-landing, in the yard to the rear of Stewart Castle, spread around the town.

I have been told that the plane was taken to Strathroy for repair.

At first I didn't understand where in Strathroy the plane might have been taken to but on doing more research I was able to understand that in the First World War the airfield at Omagh would have adjoined the local army camp at Lisanelly. This was because up until 1st April 1918 there was no Royal Air Force. The Royal Flying Corp was a division of the British Army. The change from RFC to RAF didn't happen over night and in 1918 crews were still mixed and using existing facilities. Most if not all of the present airfields in Northern Ireland, both large and small, started out as military bases and it is interesting to speculate if

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Omagh might have had its own airport had the RAF kept up the facilities at Strathroy. Perhaps the terrible weather and the hilly landscape put them off.

I have been unable to pinpoint an exact date for this crashlanding but I did come across a more tragic crash which happened just outside Dromore on 13th of November 1918. The war was just over when the accident happened. Three planes had left a Galway aerodrome for Strathroy, their home base, when just near Rakeranbeg Creamery outside Dromore two of the planes collided with tragic consequences. Two pilots and an air mechanic, together with a small dog belonging to one of the pilots lost their lifes. There was no inquest and probably no proper investigation either. It is highly likely that the crash was caused by pilot error and the authorities did not want to make a bad situation worse. The planes were removed to the camp at Strathoy. Incidentally, planes which crashed during what is referred to as the 'War for Independence' were a target for the IRA because of the machine guns they carried. In addition the soldiers sent to guard crashed planes were also a target. There is no suggestion that this plane was a target but it would have been moved quickly to avoid any problems. From the angle the photo was taken it is not possible to tell if the guns are still under the wings but given that there are no aircrew in view, they could have been removed to Omagh with the crew. postcards@mgtaggart.com

Looking ahead

As we all ponder over what 2014 has in store and resolve to make positive changes in our lives in the year ahead, we caught up with some of Omagh’s well-known faces to find out about their hopes, goals and resolutions for themselves – and for the town – this year.

Omagh District Council chairman, Marty McColgan: “I’m looking forward to seeing progress on many of the developments that have been promised for Omagh really – starting with the opening of the new leisure centre which will be a great asset to the town. I’m looking forward to seeing the work commencing on the new education campus, and also hopefully the new link road at Strathroy which will open up the whole north of the town for investment. We will also hopefully see good news on the A5 project being moved forward in 2014.

Of course there are also council elections coming up for the new ‘super council’ and an exciting time for Omagh and Fermanagh as we come together as one district. On a personal level I suppose like many people I have made the same resolution I always make – to get out and walk more each day and generally lead a healthier lifestyle. I’m hoping it’s something I can stick to this year!”

Community worker and local funnyman, Conor Keys: “My main goal for 2014 is to repair my frayed relationship with my imaginary friend, Robert. “My main hope is that Robert is still as good at hide & seek as he was when we were young.”

Animal welfare champion and recent BEM recipient, Lynda Hill: “For 2014 my vision is very clear and that is that I wish to remain doing all I can for the welfare of animals. At the moment though, I am unsure as to what format that will be in as I have been approached by a number of people in animal welfare asking for my input on a number of projects. I also hope to continue enjoying my day job grooming dogs at Canine Care. After 20 years in the business I still enjoy the great pleasure I have working with dogs.

So I feel very blessed to be starting this new year with the joy of doing a job I love along with the knowledge that I will be continuing to support and further improve the welfare of animals.”

Cloughfin Community Association scoops £1,000 prize

Volunteers who helped with the 'Cloughfin Old School house' Community Centre Dulux Let's Colour project celebrate their £1000 Cloughfin Community Association (CCA), on Cloughlin Road, has scooped a £1,000 prize after winning a national competition, thanks to overwhelming support from the local public.

The rural group was recently shortlisted for the prize after receiving a generous paint donation from the Dulux Let’s Colour scheme earlier in the year.

With an aim of colouring one million lives by 2020, Dulux is using its colour authority to try and brighten up grey spaces and local lives throughout the UK through the Let’s Colour Project.

This year alone, Dulux has helped bring colour to over 300,000 lives in the UK and shows no intention of slowing down.

CCA was up against fierce competition from five other community centres, but after receiving 506 votes on the Dulux Let’s Colour Facebook page, the County Tyrone based hub will now receive the £1,000 reward.

Members are now planning to use the £1,000 to make even more improvements to the community centre for the next generation of attendees to make the most of.

Project leader, Rosemary McMullen, who originally nominated the project online, said: “We’re absolutely over the moon to have won and we’d like to thank everyone who logged on to vote. £1,000 will go a long way and we can’t wait to see how we can revamp the space even more.

“The paint donation has really helped us transform our hub and we’ve had so many positive comments from everyone who uses the site - winning this prize is the icing on the cake for everyone involved.”

From more than 100 applications, the redecoration at CCA was shortlisted for the cash prize, to help the centre continue its positive work within the local community.

The top five projects, in four separate categories, went head-tohead on Facebook, where members of the public voted for their favourite project to win the prize.

To find out further information on the Let’s Colour Project, or to apply for a paint donation, visit www.letscolour.co.uk omaghtoday | 15

Charlie

As it was to where it is now No. 79

Andy Gordon

Well, wouldn’t you just know it! Charlie boy had his chance to mention Christmas, or Christmas music, in his zig-zag wanderings in the last issue of this great magazine. Alas, he didn’t jump at that opportunity. No, being Charlie, being unique, and being somewhat cussed, he has decided to furnish you with the fact that one of his heroes, Gene Autry, wrote one of the most iconic Christmas songs – Rudolph the Red – in this issue – three weeks after the big holiday! He could have given you that information before Christmas so that, every time you heard ‘Rudolph’ you could have marvelled at Gene’s writing prowess.

Charlie actually mentions that Gene couldn’t remember how he came to write the song. I’m not in the least surprised! Because he didn’t write it!! No, he recorded it, and it became one of his greatest recordings, but Johnny Marks was the songwriter of this particular song.

By the way, Charlie could have told you that Johnny Marks also wrote three other seasonal offerings – ‘Rocking around the Christmas Tree’ for Brenda Lee; ‘A Holly Jolly Christmas’ for Burl Ives and ‘I heard the Bells on Christmas’ – recorded for his 1977 Christmas Show by none other than the master himself – (according to Mr Taggart) – Johnny Cash, accompanied by June Carter in the presence of Billy Graham! Just how he overlooked all this I’m not too sure, except to say that he was really busy over the holiday season, both in the shop and keeping on the right side of all his many grandchildren!

I, on the other hand, had a lovely relaxed time over the same period, having a Christmas to beat all previous ones. I spent six days washing dishes, making mulled wine and looking after MY one and only grandson, Jack. No one else in the house had a look in! If he was sleeping I washed dishes, or tended to my particular brew – recipe a closely guarded secret. When he woke up, I fed him, changed and dressed him, and when all was well, he and I disappeared into my little studio for the start of his musical education. Yes, he may have been only three months old, but it’s never too early to introduce him to the finer points of music written especially for children.

For starters, I thought we couldn’t do any better than listen to Tom Paxton. His ‘Engelbert the Elephant’ is one of those songs that can be used for any age. I not only played it for my kids, but went as far as learning all the words and chords so that I could entertain them on wet afternoons while staying in a caravan in Rossnowlagh. It has always puzzled me as to how they got a liking for long walks, along rain drenched beaches, while on holiday! Also on the same CD – yes, I’m still in love with those little silver discs – are classics like ‘Jennifer’s Rabbit’, ‘Going to the Zoo’ and ‘My dog’s bigger than your dog’.

When Jack had survived – I mean listened - to those, it was straight on to the heavy stuff – ‘The Bare Necessities’, ‘The Laughing Policeman’ and another elephant tail – sorry – tale, ‘Nellie the Elephant’. Our heads were fairly spinning after our first session, but after another bottle or two, he was prepared for further indoctrination!

For his next visit Ihavelinedup‘Gilly,Gilly,Ossenfeffer,Katzenellen Bogen by the Sea’, ‘Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious’ and ‘ZipA-Dee-Doo-Dah’, all essential elements, needed to foster a love of music in the very young!!

Charlie always berates me for not writing about music. I wonder what he will say now! omaghtoday | 16

& andY

Charlie Taggart

Gene Autry’s most famous Christmas song is ‘Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer’, and when asked, he said he couldn’t remember how he came to write it. He also had great success with ‘Back in the Saddle Again’ and I can identify with that one right now. Autry was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1969 and in the 1980s he opened the Autry Museum of Western Heritage in Los Angeles. Autry’s influence turned America’s interest in the cowboy into big business and western movies are still being made, even though ‘The Lone Ranger’ was not a huge commercial success.

Roger Miller is another artist who recorded songs for the cinema, notably the soundtrack for the comedy western ‘The Ballad of Waterhole 3’. Roger Miller was born on the 2 January 1936 in Fort Worth Texas. His father died when he was a year old and Roger was sent to live with his Uncle Elmer in Eric, Oklahoma. On his discharge from the Army, Roger moved to Nashville where he became friendly with Bill Anderson, another singer songwriter, but he could only find work in a hotel. Eventually with the help of Minnie Pearl and George Jones, he won an audition with Starday Records and this led to his first recording session. At this time Roger and George Jones wrote the song ‘Tall Tall Trees’ that was later recorded by Alan Jackson. Roger was hired by Ray Price to play in his band ‘The Cherokee Cowboys’. Ray Price soon made a hit out of the Miller song ‘Invitation to the Blues’, and this led to Roger signing with Tree Publishing. His songs were beginning to make the charts, and Jim Reeves had a hit with ‘Billy Bayou’. Roger also wrote ‘England Swings’ and this was also recorded by Brian Coll under the title ‘Ireland Swings’. In 1964 he had a No1 hit with ‘Dang Me’ and in 1965 his song ‘King of the Road’ was released, and this song is now regarded as a country standard.

Ray Price was born on January 12, 1926 in the East Texas town of Perryville. He served in the Marines during World War 2, the attended college near Dallas, where he studied veterinary medicine. In 1949 he left college and started singing at local clubs and on the Big D. Jamboree - a well-known barn dance based in Dallas. In 1951 Price recorded a Lefty Frizzell song ‘If you’re Ever Lonely Darling’ for Columbia and on the strength of this he moved to Nashville and joined the Grand Ole Opry.

He shared accommodation with Hank Williams for a while, and this close association obviously influenced his early recordings.

Price gradually moved away from his honkytonk sound to cover more middle of the road songs like ‘Release Me’ and ‘Crazy Arms’. In 1965 he made a Nashville Sound album, ‘Burning Memories’, which included great songs and inspired singing in an uptown style, which really connected with the record buying public. Price kept recording and appearing at concerts through the 1980s and 1990s and he also opened his own theatre in Branson Missouri. This is only a thumbnail snapshot of this great artist who died on December 16, 2013.

Lawyer: What is your brother-in-law’s name?

Witness: Borofkin.

Lawyer: What is his first name?

Witness: I can’t remember.

Lawyer: He’s been your brother-in-law for years and you can’t remember his name?

Witness: No. I tell you I’m too excited. (Rising from the witness chair and pointing at Mr Borofkin) Nathan, for God’s sake, tell them your first name!

Christmas parties in the Village Inn

Hard working St. Macartan's P. S., Dullaghan Tyrone and Fermanagh Hospital staff members letting their hair down at their staff having their night out in the Village Inn. Christmas party.

Enjoying their Christmas party in the Village Inn.

Oxfam members take a well earned rest.

Four Oaks Ward staff relaxing at their party night

Aine, Catriona and Shauna looking glam at Enjoying their Christmas atmosphere in the their Christmas party..

Village Inn.

Santa and fire crew in festive spirit at Tattyreagh clubhouse

omaghtoday | 17

Top title for Top Nosh Local eaterie Top Nosh continued their supremacy in Omagh’s annual Santa Dash for 2013 as Conor McLaughlin powered to victory up the Courthouse hill! The town centre was transformed into a sea of red and white as a host of local businesses sent forth their representatives to try and topple Top Nosh off their festive perch to no avail, while lots of others young and old also took part in the slightly less energetic ‘Santa Dander’, bringing plenty of family fun and seasonal spirit to Omagh. A big well done to Top Nosh and all the other participants – including our own Wee Buns who made a sterling effort on behalf of the Melting Pot!

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Donnelly five generations Five generations of the (Hollow) Donnelly family from Roscavey, Beragh.

They are Maggie Donnelly with daughter Maureen, Maureen's daughter Celine with her daughter Nicole and her baby Jayden pictured at a Christmas family celebration

Hazel Wand stars and line dancers entertain shoppers

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U P C O M I N G

EN T ER T A I NMEN T . . .

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Watch out for our First Theme Night of the year coming soon...

it's going to be HUGE!

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Visit our Brand New Website

Saturday 11th JANUARY

DJ Delbert Saturday 18th JANUARY

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EVERY MONDAY

Happy Mondays

from 3pm to closing EVERY TUESDAY

Pub Quiz

www.mainstreetomagh.com

Saturday 11th JANUARY

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from 9.30pm Friday 10th JANUARY

The Bizz from 10.00pm followed by Paddys Disco Friday 17th JANUARY

Replay from 10.00pm followed by Paddys Disco

Hen/Stag & party packages available Rue 028 8225 7575 | Una Vita 028 8224 4440

omaghtoday | 21

omaghtoday | 22

Record-breaking turnout for Greencastle’s Boxing Day run

MORE than 1,000 runners enjoyed what were surely some of the best weather conditions ever seen on Boxing Day for what has become a landmark event on the Northern Ireland athletics calendar – the Greencastle 5 Mile Run. There was a record-breaking turnout for the 2013 event, which saw runners of all ages, both experienced and amateur, travel from all over the country to participate in the event, now entering its 29th year.

First home was North Belfast harrier Stephen Scullion to retain the winner’s jersey from last year, while Dundrum athlete Maria McCambridge was again the first female athlete home.

Race director Oliver McCullagh said, “It was a major overwhelming success again. We had more walkers taking part this year than ever before which was great to see and it was certainly a record breaking turn-out. The good weather added to the occasion and probably encouraged more to come out, especially those who had to travel. There was a great standard of athletes with the same two winners as last year putting in excellent performances.”

LOOKING AHEAD (Continued from page 15) Business mogul and Omagh Enterprise CEO Nick O’Shiel:

“My hope for 2014 from a business perspective is that we will continue to have reasons to be optimistic about economic growth after what has been a long and difficult journey for people. In recent months there appears to be a glimmer of hope as news of investment and jobs return on the world stage while the more advanced economies such as the United States, United Kingdom and Germany are beginning to see some positive signs after many years of consolidation.

Over the coming months I hope we will see plans for sustainable growth being developed and that this will build prosperity over the long term – a move away from the boom and bust policies of recent decades that have been so damaging to the global economy.

“On a personal level I am hoping to enjoy similar optimism, in particular in relation to my running! I completed the Greencastle and Lough 5 runs over the Christmas period and would hope to build on those achievements by taking part in the Omagh Half Marathon in March.”

NEXT ISSUE...

23 Jan omaghtoday | 23

Small to medium sized businesses encouraged to avail of innovation seminar SMALL to medium-sized businesses in the Omagh District are being invited to attend an informative seminar organised by the Innovation Omagh project and aimed at fostering a culture of innovation and success within this sector.

achieved high double digit growth year on year and won several enterprise awards, disproving the notion that success in a recession is impossible. He will focus on how innovation and creative thinking help the business to grow and to stay ahead of the competition, and produce tangible results.

Invest NI will outline a range of innovation support available to SMEs including its Innovation Voucher initiative, which provides companies with easily accessible funding up to £4,000 for an agreed business growth project with a university or college.

Amanda Fullerton, Business Development Manager at the University of Ulster will share her knowledge on the Knowledge Transfer Partnership Programme (Europe’s leading knowledge transfer programme).

The Knowledge Transfer Programme provides businesses with a high calibre graduate who will work on a project of strategic importance to the company, helping local SMEs to improve product design, develop new products, improve their manufacturing process, reduce costs and increase sales.

Speaking about the forthcoming seminar, the Chairman of Omagh District Council Martin McColgan said: “Innovation Omagh has organised an exceptional event for local SMEs and I would encourage all businesses in the district to come along and avail of the knowledge, guidance and advice that will be available.”

Innovation Omagh is a free initiative designed to support local SMEs within the Omagh District with an overarching goal of placing Innovation, Research and Development at the core of local business growth. The programme also provides businesses with one-to-one mentoring support from a business expert.

To book a place at the seminar or find out more about the Innovation Omagh Programme contact the Business Innovation Co-ordinator by email: andrea.mcguckin@omagh.gov.uk or telephone 028 8224 5321.

You are invited to a seminar:

Entitled ‘How to Sustain Innovation for Success’, this informative seminar will be delivered by Philip Bain of ShredBank Ltd and Amanda Fullerton from the University of Ulster, at the Silverbirch Hotel on Thursday, January from 10am-12noon.

The seminar is part of a series of business support events organised by Omagh District Council through the Innovation Omagh Programme. This programme is part funded by Invest NI and the European Regional Development Fund under the Sustainable Competitiveness Programme for Northern Ireland.

Philip Bain, co-founder and director of ShredBank Ltd, will outline how the company, which specialises in document and confidential material shredding on site at client offices, has omaghtoday | 24

HOW TO SUSTAIN INNOVATION FOR SUCCESS On: Thursday 23 January 2014 In: Silverbirch Hotel, Omagh From: 10am – 12noon Light Lunch Provided KEY NOTE SPEAKERS: This project is part funded by Invest Northern Ireland and the European Regional Development Fund under the Sustainable Competitiveness Programme for Northern Ireland

• Award Winning ShredBank Ltd • University of Ulster

To reserve your place please contact the Business Innovation Coordinator on: Tel: 079 7166 0521 / Email: andrea.mcguckin@omagh.gov.uk

Jingle bells? Wedding bells more like!

Jingle bells weren’t the only ones ringing in the Omagh district over Christmas – wedding bells have been jingling for members of the same family after these four cousins – Grainne, Cathy, Emma and Kevin, all with a Bogan connection – got engaged over the festive period. There will be some hats and outfits to be got for their mammies over the coming months and years!

Fintona's Raymond McBrien crossed the parish border to Dromore for his bride to be Grainne O'Neill. However, it was on Rye Beach during their stay in Australia that Raymond dropped down on one knee to propose to his sweetheart.

Emma Morris from Killyclogher with her man Stephen Gailey from Newtownstewart. Stephen Fintona's Kevin McGirr and his Cathy McNally from Eskra with decided to pop the question on bride to be Melissa Donnelly Austin O'Brien from Co. Kildare Sligo bridge and when Emma from Ballygawley . who proposed to his Tyrone girl answered 'Yes' they were joined in Oughter Ard, Co. Kildare. by a passing hen party.

Would you like to advertise in Omagh Today?

Email ads@omaghtoday.com or telephone Brendan 078 8431 3385 or 028 8075 8078 omaghtoday | 25

Short Story...

Kathleen sat meekly with her hands on her demurely closed-together knees.

It was her first night out with the rest of the girls from her class as a student nurse at the nearby hospital. The first meagre pay cheque was gladly cashed on the premises where the girls told her, there was a 'right good band and a locka men about'.

Kathleen was not on the lookout for men at this point in her young life. She had ambitions to get through her years of nurse training, get a permanent job and maybe go further in her career. Men, marriage, weans and settling down were for much later.

She had never tasted alcoholic drink, so she stuck stoically to soft drinks whilst her young colleagues experimented with bottles of nasty smelling beers as they celebrated their first earnings.

Kathleen, though young, knew she would never win any beauty contest, but she did present herself in an attractive way; modestly dressed, a little bit of make-up and her auburn hair falling round her face but not in such a way as to hide the cheeky little dimples in her cheeks.

She was a bit wary of the dancing though.

The girls practiced jiving every night in the Nurses Home to the music of all the showbands on an old record-player.

Kathleen just wanted to be a wallflower tonight and sit and watch. All that turning and stomping around in the jives with boys who hadn't a clue about timing or rhythm was bad enough, but then the slow waltzes seemed even worse with men pushing themselves up against you and sticking their faces down your shoulder.

The music was good though, and the night omaghtoday | 26

Can I have this dance?

by Pat McGlinchey flew as her friends jumped up to dance at every invitation, then came back reeking of sweat.

“Come on Kathleen, loosen up and get out there girl, the last dance is coming up,” said one of the girls. As the band started their last set, all the girls were on the floor immediately, but Kathleen still sat by the wall, no invitations to dance, until her worst nightmare! This fellow who had obviously arrived by way of the next-door pub, still in his boiler-suit and face and hands smeared with grease, staggered across the floor. No such thing as “Would you like to dance?” but just a gruff “C'mon.”

Being a mannerly girl, Kathleen would not refuse even the most uncouth, and as he dragged her to the crowded floor, he made a shape to jive. “No”, said Kathleen, “this is a slow dance,” whereupon her lovely wee white blouse she had got in Etam's that evening received the full force of his grease covered hands on her shoulders. His whiskey-flavoured breath was overwhelming as the singer crooned: “Can I have this dance, for the rest of my life; can we be together every night; when we're together it seems soh-ho right; can I have this dance for the rest of my life?”

Dance over, Kathleen headed back to her mates, as yer man clung on to her hand mumbling: “A've the motor outside; am ah taking you home or what?”

Mary whispered to her: “ Ye've landed on

yer feet there cuttie, that boy was left three farms of land and has his own digger!”

Ten years later Kathleen sat in her fine house a few miles outside the town, looking down over her fields full of cattle, and the big concrete yard with its sheds and workshops.

The three oldest weans were at school, but young Francis was sitting gurgling at her as she finished giving him his dinner. “Dada!” he shouted. “Yer dada has been out since it got clear this morning working pet, and he'll be home for his dinner at dark. Them big lorries coming in and out of the yard have your name on them ye know.”

Then in a rare wee chance to show emotion in her own long day of work helping her husband in his contracting and farming business, Kathleen went over to her old record-player in the corner, carefully put on a record, then lifted her baby from his highchair. With a smile of sheer contentment, she danced him round the flagstone floor and as he spewed his dinner in her ear, she twitched her nostrils and muttered: “Ah, ye wee stinker,” but she didn't care as she listened again to the dulcet tones of Frankie McBride.

“Can I have this dance, for the rest of my life; can we be together every night; when we're together it just seems soh-ho riiight, can I have this dance for the rest ..of... my... life?”

Main Street welcomes 2014

omaghtoday | 27

Christmas partying on Main Street

The Taggart Jack gang relax at their Christmas party in Rue.

The glam Scizzor Hanz sisters pose for Pat.

Eleanor Devine, Pat Moore and Joy Arvalee ladies having a ball at their party.

Russell.

Dunnes Stores staff enjoying their break.

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Omagh Hockey ladies joined by the P & L Taxi drivers for our pic.

Jarlath and the Tattyreagh P. S. crew missing their young students.

With Chloe Kerr

Radiant Orchid for 2014 IT’S hard to believe that it has been a whole year since I wrote my first article for Omagh Today about the Pantone shade of 2013. Well emerald green is out, and Radiant Orchid (read pinky purple) is in!

“The tropical shade is a colourwheel contrast to green,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Colour Institute. “It’s a little different, it’s a little off the beaten path, and it’s not a primary colour,” she explains. “It’s an invitation to innovation. The purple family offers an opportunity to do creative things.”

She also expects people to take to this shade quickly as it is a flattering colour and is complementary to neutral colours.

Furthermore, it’s not something we haven’t seen in a while, so it’s a chance to look at what you already have in your wardrobe and add to what you have – good news that we don’t have to buy an entire new wardrobe of clothes in this economic climate! Don’t expect to see this shade on the shelves right away though, so if you’ve anything in this colour bracket at home you’re already ahead of the trend!

While purple may lean slightly on the feminine side, it has graced the catwalks of Men’s Fashion Week this year - so men, you have no excuse to shy away from this trend! Expect to see this trend quickly adopted into the design and décor world too; home furnishings, wall colour and in tableware. Don’t worry, the trend isn’t to have an entirely orchid coloured room, this trend best works as an accent shade in the room – a mat, accessories, or as a wall colour with an otherwise neutral room. Another idea is to use an orchid design in your accessories.

Radiant orchid is making waves in the makeup world as well; purple goes great with a smoky eye and purple hued lipsticks have been adorning celebrities’ lips recently. If you’re not brave enough to try that, rock the trend with some purple nail polish. My picks are L’Oreal Infallible 24HR Eyeshadow in ‘Smoldering Plum’, MAC lipstick in ‘Rebel’ or ‘Up the Amp’, or Maybelline Colour Show gel based nail varnish in ‘Berry Fusion’.

The first day of the fishing season each year usually sees local anglers making the pilgrimage to the Drowes Salmon fishery, largely to the lure (pardon the pun of the magnificent Atlantic Salmon, and this year was no different; the outcome was, however, very uncharacteristic - to date (I’m typing this on Jan 4th), nobody has caught a salmon on this beautiful tidal stretch.

The main reason of course that a salmon has yet to be landed is down to the rain, and boy has it rained in recent days! I do know of one angler from down the country who had a fish on the fly for a few minutes but lost it again.

I’ve just checked Twitter (@DrowesFishery), and there’s still no report of any catches at 8.30pm. It will come, of course, and the prize for the first salmon will keep rolling over until someone can claim the honours. This time last year we saw Omagh angler Timothy Dalton split the honours, perhaps he should give it a throw tomorrow with the old Flying C’s, we’ll see…

The local angling scene is very quiet, as you’d expect, apart from the odd hardy pike angler and a few brave ‘stocky bashers’. John Harkin (pictured) got himself a lovely pike of 16lbs 2oz (on Lough Erne, I think) on December 27th, calling it a “nice xmas present” – well done John, cracking fish mate! In relation to stocky bashing all the local fisheries are all still open for business, although the high winds and rain have made it less attractive for the trout angler – that said, local man, Sean Kelly, braved the elements in the mouth of Christmas to successfully win the NSN ‘Christmas

Cracker’ competition at Craigmore Fishery with a grand total of 14 fish. Well done Sean, and I look forward to meeting up with you for a throw over the coming season.

The only other item of interest since our last edition was the story of another bovine corpse that ended up somersaulting in the turbulent water below the weir at the Strule Arts Centre. Thankfully the floods moved it downstream, but it did, once again, highlight the design failing with this weir – keeping the dead cow in the white water for over a day. Perhaps the Council should have considered the saying ‘go with the flow’ before they ‘bulled on’ with that installation?!

The 3-4 months at the beginning of the year are always going to be quiet on the angling front, but I will endeavour to bring you a report of sorts in each issue to keep you posted on the goings on our local angling scene. I can, in the meantime, let you know about some fly tying classes that will be happening in the next few months at The Weigh Inn, however, the details have yet to be finalised, so watch this space or keep an eye on the Omagh Angling Forum on Facebook for breaking news.

Happy New Year to you all, and tight lines in 2014!

MC. omaghtoday | 29

Beautyboost

The BB cream looks set to stick around for the long haul now and this one by Stila has everything you could want in a single product – blemish cover, SPF, illuminating, anti-ageing… need we go on? You need this in your life! By Stila, available online.

Isn’t it annoying when spring/summer stock floods into the shops while the weather’s still wintry? But a refresh of your make-up bag is the perfect way to satisfy your urge for a new look while you’re waiting for the weather to turn…and here’s our pick of the products any beauty queen worth her salt will be lusting after this season!

Superdry’s beauty range launched in 2013 and we predict that in 2014 its products could become as ubiquitous as their fashion line – we love this fat and funky eye marker.

YSL’s ‘Babydoll’ mascara has been racking up five star reviews all over the place since it launched in 2013, making it a musthave mascara for those who prefer their lashes long, luscious – and real!

The double-layered silicone brush holds two patents – not to mention an endorsement by Cara Delevingne.

We can never resist trying the latest tan on the market and we think you’ll be impressed by the streak-free finish as well as the fresh scent of the new Kissed by Mii range from Gerrard International. Watch this space for details of local stockists…

The beauty editors are raving about this fantastic multi-purpose product by Carita – smooth this shimmering golden oil on everything from skin to hair to add softness and shine.

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Love ma king a sta your nail tement w s? Chec ith k ou polishes from Revl t these cool on with a base coa t on one matt end and accent c a shiny olour on the othe r – or vic versa… e

Needing a beauty boost after the excesses of the festive season? Look no further than this soothing repair mask by Elemis, available at Lavender Health Spa, Ballygawley.

Some things never change from year to year – and taking your make-up off every night is still one of the best ways to ensure younger-looking, spot free skin so don’t skimp on the cleanser! We love these handy pads from This Works, available at Yellow Lane.

Pantone have nam ed ‘Radiant Orc their colo hid’ as ur of the year and that mea ns this new ‘Lolli Tin t’ lip and c heek sta in

by Benefi t on trend is bang ! Ava from Feb ilable ruary.

Mummy Diaries Zen and the art of Christmas with kids

Peter and his girls

Drumragh's Gaelic for mums with coach Peter Donaghy at their Christmas party in Clanabogan Country House.

Heating oil stolen

A quantity of home heating oil has been taken from the Gortmore Gardens area of Omagh. The incident was reported to police on December 31st. Anyone who can help police with their enquiries is asked to contact them on 0845 600 8000. Alternatively information about crime can be passed anonymously via the independent Crimestoppers number on 0845 600 8000.

NEXT ISSUE...

23 Jan

SO that’s Christmas all over for another year. By the time you read this the kids will be back at school, we will all be back to work and back to juggling the school runs and after-school clubs and dinners and homeworks and endless laundry and interminable cleaning…sigh.

It’s so nice to get some proper time off over Christmas (apologies to those who didn’t!) and spend some quality time with the kids just playing or hanging out or watching a film – the kind of things there never seems to be time for in a normal week - but you know, it’s possible to have too much of a good thing.

Even in spite of Santa bringing them the things their little hearts most desired, not to mention the mountain of gifts that arrived from grannies and grandas and aunties and uncles, my kids are bored – and officially sick of the sight of us. And I can’t say the feeling isn’t a teeny, tiny little bit mutual.

It all started off so well. Before school finished I made a Herculean effort to get the house cleaned and crucially, the ironing up to date, so that once the kids were off all we had to do was eat and wrap gifts and bake and relax. And we did, and it was gorgeous. My stress levels were zero – even the hubber commented on it. No tantrum, no mess was sufficient to make me raise my voice; I was calm, collected and in control. If the Dalai Lama and Supernanny had a kid and it grew up to be a parent, that would have been me. It didn’t last.

The wheels started to come off on Christmas Eve. The children were so hyped up on excitement they didn’t know where to put themselves but we figured it would be shortlived so we took deep breaths and powered through til bedtime. One Santa had been, I reasoned, they’d be so busy with all their new toys we wouldn’t even see them until Boxing Day, right?

Well, almost. Christmas Day was pretty cool if I’m honest, if you ignore the fact that cooking Christmas dinner turned out to be the one thing with the capacity to topple me off my Super-Lama Zen parenting perch. I was a tad fraught, and therefore entirely justified in requesting that any sugarloaded, overexcited children be immediately removed from the steamy, stressed-out environment of the kitchen. And then when the dinner was finally on the table I poured myself a large glass of red, and I spent the rest of the day in a partial carb coma, alert enough to prevent them from coming to any harm but not enough to stop them from trashing the living room. Bliss.

I really thought that once Christmas Day and maybe Boxing day were over and the excitement levels returned to normal, that we would have two slightly tired and very placid children on our hands, which together with a mountain of new toys would mean entertaining them would be a piece of cake; but as so often happens, I was wrong!

It turns out that it makes no difference if your house looks like a branch of Smyths – they’ll still fight over the same toy; and rather than getting them into the sharing spirit, receiving a load of new things all at once has the unfortunate side effect of making small children even more possessive than normal.

We did watch Christmas movies and we did bake and we did play board games and build Lego and do jigsaw puzzles – and it was lovely – but I made the mistake of thinking my children would be overcome by Christmas spirit and would therefore not argue, squabble or fight, which of course they did do, a LOT. And it was still great. But I’ll be very glad when Monday comes – and by the time you’re reading this, I might even have figured out where I’m going to put all these new toys… omaghtoday | 31

Dromore’s St. John’s College glam formal

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Next generation of storytellers celebrated at South West College TALENTED young storytellers from Omagh’s primary schools were applauded at a very special event held recently at South West College.

Primary four to six pupils from schools across the town had been invited to pen their own original ‘Christmas Tale’ by year two Event Management students at the college as part of a competition designed to promote both literacy and creativity among youngsters.

The students were blown away by the caliber of work produced by their young protégées and organized a performance/narration event in the college with the young writers’ classmates invited along to hear the original

The Present Mix-Up

by Andrew Walker "How can I help you?" I asked. Dan must be in BIG trouble when he is asking for my help! Dan told me that Santa was sick and that he had to deliver the presents or else there would be a lot of sad children. But he got them all mixed up! Oh no, did that mean that he had delivered my Xbox 360 to someone else? I told Dan I would help him. He put some magic dust on me and then I was on Santa's sleigh. "WOW, this is awesome!" I shouted…”

Christmas Tale

stories being read aloud.

Winners of the three categories were Aine Stewart from St Conor’s PS (P4); Andrew Walker from Omagh County PS (P5) and Sie Yan Lim from Holy Family PS (P6). Each of the winners received a certificate of their achievement anda booklet of the best stories is also currently in production, fordisbtribution to the participating schools in due course.

Excerpts from the winning stories are as follows:

by Sie Yan Lim "Everybody close your eyes, hold on to your reindeer and think of your heart's desire," Santa's clear voice rang out. She threw her arms around Rudolf, carefully shutting her eyes tight. "I wish I... had a family." she thought as hard as she could, a strange tingly feeling running through her body. It felt warm, and comfortable. She suddenly realised that the feeling that washed over her at that moment was magic. It was pure magic, from dreams and wishes, love and happiness. After a moment, it was over, although it felt like an eternity to Marie. He beamed along with the excited Mrs Claus. "You all wished for the same thing and I can grant it. You are now part of the family. You can live with us, you’re like the children we never had,” she looked a little teary, "our very own little girls…"

Elvis the Lost Elf

by Aine Stewart "Elvis was a quirky young elf. He had four large freckles on each cheek, a big red nose and a set of front teeth that any donkey would be proud of. Elvis wore a green t-shirt and red silky trousers. He wore bright yellow shoes. Elvis' job was to pack the Santa sack. He was carrying out a large present to put into the sleigh. It was a bad night, the snow was coming down thickly and it was difficult to see. Poor Elvis lost his way from Camp Santa and ended up in the enchanted forest…"

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Social life in need of a boost?

Your guide to what’s onMartin in Omagh district this fortnight...

By Claire

must see!!

Omagh Players present Lost in Yonkers Strule Arts Centre, January 17-19, 8pm, £10 Set in New York in 1942, 'Lost In Yonkers' by Neil Simon is a winner of four Tony Awards including Best Play and also the Pulitzer Prize – no pressure then for the Omagh Players as they bring their own production of the play to Strule this month!

Funny and heart-rending by turns, this comedy-drama focuses on the difficulties faced by two young brothers forced to live with a group of eccentric relatives. Arty and Jay are young teenagers when their widower father heads South to seek work, leaving the boys with their stern, intimidating grandmother. Also part of the household is the more likable Aunt Bella, an odd duck with a scattered personality and childlike enthusiasm that make her seem more like a fellow kid than an adult.

Bella is kept under close watch by Grandma, who reacts strongly when she attempts to show her independence, leaving Arty and Jay as witnesses to a conflict that could tear the family apart. Tickets available now from the Box Office.

Robert Mizzell Strule Arts Centre, January 23, 8pm, £20

11th January Karate classes, Personal Health and Fitness Gym, 11am-12noon for children (6 and up) and 12-2pm for adults and advances. Keep fit, improve concentration, learn self defence all in one! Classes run weekly until Feb 22.

11th January Car Boot Sale, Omagh Integrated Primary School car park, 9am-12 noon, £5 per car.

11th January Trevor Loughrey in Village Inn 13th January Adult Beginner Tennis Lessons (5 week course) from 7-8pm, £25. Contact Mark at 07936483597.

15th January Launch night for Omagh Table Tennis club.

Interested parties welcome, refreshments provided. St Columba’s Church hall, 7-9pm.

18th January Curtis Magee in Village Inn

Angela Reid needs your Vote

Just Say No

Strule Arts Centre, January 25, 8pm, £8

They hoped it would be popular, but nothing could prepare the team at Daly’s Comedy Club – headed up by Conor Keys – for the popularity of their recent production when it debuted at Strule before Christmas! With seats still in demand long after they sold out there was only one thig for it – another date! Join Damon McGuckin and his friends from Hunter Crescent as they head on the stag do to end all stag dos at Oxegen, with hilarious consequences.

Please be advised this play is strictly for 16+ years. It includes extremely strong language and strong adult themes throughout. omaghtoday | 34

Your at-a-glance guide to upcoming events

If you would like us to include your entertainment in the 'What's on?' guide, email details to 'info@omaghtoday.com'.

A small charge may applicable for non charity events.

Country music fans are in for a treat as Louisiana-born Robert Mizzell takes to the stage in Omagh for what promises to be a brilliant evening’s entertainment.

Ireland has been Robert’s home now for over a decade and he is one of the top country artists here. His popularity is spreading with extensive airplay worldwide. As anyone who has ever attended one of his shows will testify, Robert with his band 'The Country Kings' put on an energy filled show brimming with country flavour.

Robert will be joined on the night by 19-year-old Grainne McGavigan from Ardara, Co Donega, whose singing talent was recognised by her good friend Lisa McHugh on the TG4 Country Music Competition 'Glor Tire' where she reached the final in April 2013.

Mum Says:

{What’s On?}

Congratulations to Angela Reid from Fintona who has been selected to be a contestant in this year’s Glor Tire Country Music Programme which is aired on TG4.

Her mentor will be the fantastic Michael English who hails from Co Kildare and has recently returned to the big dance band circuit. Recording for the programme has already started with TG4 interviewing Angela in her hometown of Fintona, on Friday 22 November 2013.

The popular country and western talent show returns for another 15 week series featuring nine of Ireland’s best performers as they each mentor a new contestant in a quest to win the Glor Tire title.

The first programme of the Glor Tire Series will be aired on TG4 tonight Wednesday, 8 January at 10.30pm. Voting lines are open after this programme at 11.30 and remain open until 19 March 2014. Angela would really appreciate your support!!

To vote for Angela Reid: NI ROI TEXT GLOR4 60999 53307 PHONE 0901 6566104 1513 415104 Texts cost 60c or 50p calls cost 61c or 51p For more information check out Angela Reid on Facebook.

New Years Greetings from Strule Arts Centre With the Christmas festivities well behind us, Strule Arts Centre’s Spring Programme has a host of shows, exhibitions and workshops for young and old, guaranteed to keep you entertained well into the New Year.

Highlights from our Spring 2014 programme include the return of many very popular comics including Conal Gallen's comedy show - ' A Bit On The Side, Brendan Grace and the ever popular show Give my Head Peace.

Music fans have a lot to look forward to with the appearances of some of the biggest names in country music with Robert Mizzell who will be joined by the new female voice of country music, Grainne Gavigan, and the hottest act in the Irish country music scene Nathan Carter, and Philomena Begley and Ray Lynam, Mike Denver and guests Sandy Kelly and Marc Roberts all returning to the Strule. Add into the music mix, Grainne Duffy and Her Band, Flash Harry, The Ulitmate Eagles, Eddie Reader, The legend of Luke Kelly and Michael English - you will see that every musical taste is covered in the Strule!

Drama enthusiasts are also well catered for with local companies well to the fore. Omagh Players production of the funny and heart rendering play 'Lost in Yonkers' , St Dympna’s Drama Society’s

production of 'I do not like thee, Dr Fell' and the Stagefright Theatre Company's presents the thriller production Nightmare by Norman Robbins will certainly draw large crowds. Other drama productions on stage at the Strule in the Spring is the highly recommended Brian Friel play, Molly Sweeney, Emily - The Making of a Militant Suffragette presented by The Production Exchange in association with Cambridge Devised Theatre and thought-provoking The Kitchen, The Bedroom and The Grave by Accidental Theatre which should all prove to be very popular.

Also in the programme this year and back by popular demand is The Jazz Supper great extravaganza with an 8 piece swing band made up of the finest players around. Great music and great Italian antipasti - what a combination! Don't miss it. New to the Spring programme and for one night only, Poetry Exposure. The Strule show their appreciation to the talented Northern Irish Poet, Seamus Heaney with a night of his revered poems and some light musical entertainment. All Free.

Add to this our most varied programme of exhibitions, films, workshops, classes and art clubs and you are sure to find something for all tastes.

We look forward to seeing you in 2014!

UPCOMING EVENTS Performances Lost in Yonkers by Neil Simon Friday 17 - Sunday 19 January@ 8.00pm Robert Mizzell Thursday 23 January @ 8.00pm ' Mum Says: Just say No' Saturday 25 January @ 8.00pm The Ulimate Eagles Thursday 30 January @ 8.00pm Michael English Friday 31 January @ 8.00pm Flash Harry Saturday 1 February @ 8.00pm Gallery Tyrone Open submission Exhibition Calling all local Artists - Strule Arts Centre announce the first

9 Jan - 23 Jan 2014 Tyrone Open Arts Competition.

Applications can be downloaded from www.struleartscentre. co.uk. Closing date 11th January 2014 For further information please email info@struleartscentre.co.uk 'Listen to Your Place' Saturday 04 - Saturday 11 January @ 10.00am - 5.30pm Workshops Saturday Art Club with Genevieve Murphy Saturday 25 January - 01 March( 6 weeks ) @ 11.00am - 1.00pm Watercolour Technique with Helen McFarland Wednesday 29 January - 19 March ( 8 weeks ) 10.00am - 12.00pm Films Despicable Me 2 - Cert U Saturday 25 January @ 11.30am £3.00

Box Office: 028 8224 7831 or Book Online: www.struleartscentre.co.uk

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Aubrey and Lynsay Hawkes joint party Left: Birthday boy Aubrey Hawkes with the Mrs Shirley, daughters Sarah and Lucy and son James at his 40th birthday bash in Omagh Rugby Club on Saturday, Above: Birthday girl Lynsay Hawkes with parents and brothers Graame and Gareth 14th December.

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Gordon Graham’s 21st in Bogan’s

Above: Birthday boy Gordon Graham with his parents Richard and Maggie and brother John at his 21st birthday bash in ‘Next door at Bogans’. Centre: Gordon with his girlfriend Shauna O’Hare. Right and below: Friends and family enjoying the party.

Party night in the ‘birches

West Tyrone Amateur Radio hams who enjoyed their turkey and . Members of the Jackie Stewart crew at the ‘birches on party night. . . . ham at their Christmas outing.

Abacus Nursery ladies looking glam at their Christmas get together.

A section of the cyclists who enjoyed their party night in Gemma and Geraldine from the ‘birches on Saturday night.

Nationwide. omaghtoday | 37

Maggie Connolly fab at forty

Dromore birthday girl Maggie Connolly pictured with hubby Donal, daughter Ella and son Eoin at her 40th birthday bash in the Corner Bar, Dromore on Saturday night.

Omagh Today celebrate The Omagh Today team took a night off from covering party nights to have a wee party night of our own, held at Rue just before Christmas, and a welcome chance to get together with the people without whose help you would not be holding this magazine in your hands. Pay attention readers, it's not often we get that McSorley boyo (centre) on this side of the camera! omaghtoday | 38

Low fat chocolate brownies

Welcome back and I hope you all had a fantastic Christmas break and the New Year celebrations went well for you all.

As we enter 2014 I would like to wish you all a peaceful and happy New Year and encourage you to keep supporting us, keep sending us your favorite recipes, your photographs and any ideas you may have to add to the column.

I aim to look at the small home bakers out there who bake scratch recipes on a daily basis, so if any reader would like a profile spot let me know we would be delighted to include you - also any young bakers out there, we would love to hear from you and help you with your bakery skills.

The New Year brings new ideas and for many of us including me! The gym or other exercise is on the agenda, but eating healthier as well is top of the list. But ee all deserve our treats from time to time and a wellknown chef give me this homemade Chocolate Brownie recipe that contains less than 140 calories per portion!

Ingredients Low fat cooking spray 6ozs / 150g Self-Raising Flour 1oz / 25g of Cocoa Powder Pinch of salt 3oz light muscovado sugar 1 egg 3oz low fat natural yoghurt 3oz low fat spread (melted) 1oz white chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 170C /325F / Gas Mark 3. Lightly spray an eight inch square cake tin with the cooking spray and line with baking parchment.

Sieve the flour, cocoa powder and salt into a mixing bowl and stir in the sugar.

Whisk the egg and the low fat yoghurt together with 150mls of water.

Pour on the to the dry ingredients, add the melted low fat spread and mix well until smooth.

Stir in the white chocolate chips and then pour the batter into the lined tin.

Bake for 20 minutes until set and the top is slightly cracked the brownies should still be sticky in the centre.

Cool in the tin and cut into 12 pieces. Simple and easy to make and they should only take about half an hour from start to finish.

It’s hard to beat a nice chocolate treat, so if you are serious about cutting back on the calories a bit, why not give this a try?

I added some nuts to mine also.

Sample Gerry's fayre at The Melting Pot, Omagh Enterprise Company Restaurant

Santa visits Strule Arts Centre

omaghtoday | 39

around the

community Our fortnightly look at what’s happening in your local community

Loreto's cracker Christmas

Braving the freezing conditions on Friday, December 20, Omagh's Loreto Grammar School attempted to break the Guinness World Book of Records for the longest Christmas cracker pulling chain.

Pupils and staff lined up in a chain on the all weather pitch with cracker in hand to start their Christmas festivities in ‘cracking’ form.

Although adorned with festive cheer and various Santa hats and Christmas jumpers, Loreto was also aware that the official record

Grainne O'Hanlon, 5th from left, principal of the Loreto Grammar School, Omagh with Ciaran McBride, (6th from left) Omagh CBS teacher who with PE students provided statement and photographic evidence, and students and teachers after the big cracker pull at the Loreto on Friday morning.

omaghtoday | 40

of 603 had to be broken. Providing video footage, photographic evidence and witness statements by the CBS PE students to the Guinness World Record authorities, Loreto will know in soon if their number of 857 people will gain them the title of Guinness World Record holders but there is no doubt that everyone in Loreto had great ‘pulling’ power and certainly enjoyed the ‘craic’.

Turn your festive waste into woodland this January SO the tree is down, the decorations stored away for another year, and the Christmas cards…sitting in a pile somewhere while you figure out what to do with them, perhaps? Well this year once again Marks & Spencer is calling on its customers to help the Woodland Trust turn festive waste into woodland by recycling old Christmas cards.

Special card collection bins will be in place in M&S stores this month, and M&S will fund the planting of one tree for every 1,000 cards recycled.

Thanks to the public’s efforts last year, the UK is 10,000 trees richer – a staggering 10 million cards were dropped into M&S stores.

Patrick Cregg, director of the Woodland Trust, says: “We’re appealing to the Northern Ireland public to get behind this fantastic scheme. Please make a point of saving your cards from the rubbish bin and instead drop them off at M&S when you’re out and about shopping this January. It’s a post-Christmas gift to the environment and an easy way to help turn unwanted waste into much-needed trees.”

To find out more about the Christmas Card Recycling Scheme, speak to your local M&S store manager or visit http://plana. marksandspencer.com

Hospital road senior citizens provide hospitality for Santa and friends

Santa with Margaret Brown, Dougie Gordon, Lily Coleman and Hester Hagan Sandy Coleman and Ben Thompson.

Lily Coleman, Santa and Joyce Smyth.

Dickson & Co's got Hattitude

Denamona P. S. donate to 'Make a Wish'.

Denamona Primary School, Fintona presented Staff at Dickson & Co Insurance held a 'Hattitude' day for the Text Santa Charity on a cheque for £200 to the 'Make A Wish Friday, December 20.

Foundation'. The money was raised at their recent 75th Anniversary reunion celebrations Beragh Parish – January draw winners. and also a collection following the school's £1000 Declan O’Neill, £500 Aidan Grimes, £100 Una Maguire, £100 Mammie Christmas performance. Presenting the Tierney, £100 Agne Rodgers, £100 Nuala McHugh and £100 Tommy McCrory. cheque are Nicola Mitchell, Geraldine Beattie, Promoter’s prize £50 Leo Donaghy.

Ann Thompson and Lorna McMullan.

NEXT ISSUE...

23 JAN

READ/BUY OMAGH TODAY ONLINE at www.omaghtoday.com omaghtoday | 41

Mountfield Community Christmas Party in Meenagh’s

Mountfield Community association committee members and helpers who helped organise the community Christmas function in Meenagh’s Bar, Mountfield. They are Frances Donaghy, Louise McCullagh, Kevin Begley, Niamh Meenagh, Mairead McDonald, Fiona Haughey, Louise Patton and Johnny Rutledge.

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Gallows Hill Christmas gathering

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Warriors and Legends at Eskra

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resolutions

to keep this New Year

Setting resolutions every time another year rolls in is all well and good- if you keep them! If like most of the population you've broken them by the time the fifth of the month arrives, you need a shake up or at least a better set of resolutions! Which is where we come in; today we have five simple changes that are achievable and will result in a new you this year!

1. Don't set unachievable goals.

There is no point saying on the 1st of January you are going to drop three dress sizes by summer or start training for a marathon if you’ve never run a step. Instead why not decide to get active, eat better, move more and see where that takes you? Self improvement is where it's at – and the first step is the hardest one.

2. Give yourself a break.

No one is harder on you than yourself- fact.

If your healthy eating takes a nosedive one weekend, shrug it off, get back on track and mark it down to experience. Bad week at work? Don’t let it get you down; treat yourself to a shopping trip or a spa treatment to boost your mood and leave you feeling refreshed and ready to face a new week. Mums are among the biggest culprits when it comes to being too tough on themselves – remember you don’t have to do everything, all the time!

3. Be selfish sometimes.

If your mates are heading out for a weekend of boozy nights and you don't fancy it because

it doesn't fit with the new cleaner you, just tell them. Looking after yourself is very important. The same goes if you find yourself always saying ‘yes’ to people who ask you for favours – it’s great to be generous with your time, but not if it compromises your own wellbeing, so if you’re feeling burnt out, just say no!

4. Play with the best mates you have.

Surround yourself with the people who are best for you. In this social media driven world we live in, these friendships can sometimes be found online, which is great because it means we all have instant access to a support network whether we need somebody to confide in or just somebody to make us laugh – but it can be a doubleedged sword, leaving us open to negative influences too. Whether it’s online or ‘IRL’, surround yourself with people who make you feel good, and who have your best interests at heart. Life’s too short to waste it on people who don’t value your friendship.

5. Think to the future.

Like the years before, 2014 will come and go in a flash, down the line this year won't seem as important as it is right now. Focusing on the bigger picture can be helpful when you feel as if your life isn’t going anywhere – look back to five years ago, and think about the changes that have taken place since, and what your life could be like five years from now if you keep working towards your goals.

As a wise man once said, a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step!

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Loughmacrory New Year’s Eve run

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Local granny to trek Cuba for kids cancer charity NOT many people in their sixties and in need of a knee replacement would consider walking one kilometre a day, never mind tens of kilometres in searing tropical heat – but that’s exactly what local woman Geraldine Wilson has planned for November this year!

At 61 it’s quite a few years since Geraldine first completed a charity trek in the Sahara desert in 2000 and she always intended to do another, but it wasn’t until she chanced upon a leaflet from the Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children (NICFC) advertising their ‘Discover Cuba’ trek that Geraldine finally got the push she needed.

The charity holds a special place in Geraldine’s heart as her grandson Jack suffers from an extremely rare and lifethreatening condition called aplastic anaemia. Although not strictly a form of cancer, the bone marrow disease shares many of the same symptoms as leukaemia and is also treated using the same drugs, which means that Jack suffers the same sort of side effects and physical limitations while he waits to find out if his treatment has been successful.

If not, he may require a bone marrow transplant. When they learned about his diagnosis, NICFC got in touch and since then Jack and his family, including mum Sara, have benefited from many of the things they do to make life a little brighter for sick kids – including a private magic show right in his own living room and a VIP trip to Belfast Zoo! “They have been so fantastic,” Geraldine says, “and as soon as I

TheSideline Local sport insights from Paddy Hunter...

The future of St Julians Road football ground remains very much in the minds of local football followers. It’s hard to believe that the now derelict ground used to host top flight football week in, week out - it may not have been glamorous but some of the best Irish league footballers graced the once pristine surface, finely manicured by Jackie Ballard. Omagh Town had developed the old town dump site at the end of the 1980s and brought senior football to the town with Paul McAnea and Joe Campbell leading basically an all local team to a stunning opening season.

Big Roy McCreadie, a folk hero of the local game, took over and it proved to be a rollercoaster ride. The highlights? Well, perhaps Marty Woodhead’s goal in the Budweiser cup final win over Linfield, European football at St Julian’s, the division one title and the visits of Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea all rank well up there.

Now the once proud ground lies in ruins, there had been some moves to have several local clubs make the ground their home and in a town like Omagh with limited footballing facilities it would have been a welcome addition again, but structural issues with the old stand, surrounding walls and fences has left it all just talk.

Hot air perhaps, some would say, as the ground lies empty and clubs appeal for pitches. Under the ownership of Omagh District

saw the flyer I knew it was a sign that I should do the trek to raise some funds for the charity and also to highlight the amazing work they do for families like ours.”

Geraldine will travel to Cuba on November 13 this year for the gruelling nine day challenge, which begins in the historic city of Havana and will see her trekking between 10 and 18km each day in searing heat through unspoilt countryside and varying terrain – a real challenge for anybody, never mind a 61-year-old with a dodgy knee!

“I’ve been waiting on a knee replacement for a while and my doctor did suggest he was going to put me on the list for this year but I’ve told him he’s going to have to wait til after November,” she laughs. “I’ve been going to Curves so I’m planning to continue with that now in the New Year and hopefully I’ll be able to do the Omagh Half Marathon in May so if I can manage it I know I’ll be fit for the walking in Cuba.”

Geraldine has already completed a charity collection in Asda which raised an impressive £1,100 towards her £3,500 minimum target and with plans for a coffee morning at the Brookmount Pharmacy on February 2 and a charity cycle on March 31 plus a number of other ideas currently taking shape, it’s already looking like she will easily reach her goal. “If I could get to £5,000 I’d be delighted,” she says, “because I know that money will be well spent and the difference it can make to the lives of families living with cancer.”

No hope for St Julian’s?

Council several working groups have met, discussed and shelved the issue of ‘Stadio Juliano’ as the Town match day programme once called it. There appears to be little movement on its future - the latest talk is of razing the entire site to the ground ending any hope of using it as a football facility again. Why can no-one take the bull by the horns, have some foresight and redevelop St Julian’s into a state of the art facility for the youth and sports clubs of the town?

Omagh Town had always harboured hopes of one day turning the ground into a state of the art ground; plans were even on the table at one stage for corporate boxes and restaurants, and that even got to consultation stage with developers - yet the appetite was not there for senior football. Omagh Town exited stage right and even the emergence of the driven Omagh United failed to ignite the flame for long. Strathroy are the town’s kingpins now, back to back Junior Cups assure them of that mantle but whatever ambitions they may have of ‘stepping up’ to intermediate and possibly even championship football, St Julian’s road sadly may have witnessed its last ever football fixture, unless someone can finally come up with the famous plan B. As we start the new year with all those new beginnings perhaps we should be looking at St Julian’s and come up with a new beginning there too. omaghtoday | 47

TheSideline Local sport insights from Paddy Hunter...

Official launch of Omagh’s first table tennis club for 25 years

a warm welcome.

New chapter for Tyrone

THERE will be an historic moment in Omagh’s sporting community on January 15 this year with the official launch of the town’s first table tennis club for over 25 years.

Once a popular sport in this area, table tennis has endured a period of unfashionability, but its star is once again in the ascendancy worldwide – aided locally by natives Des Flanagan, Ken Strong and Richard Meyler, plus a handful of internationals!

Since they took the bull by the horns and set the club up last October, the men have been delighted to welcome more than 25 regular players including representatives from France (in the form of club chairman Manu Marechaux), Hungary, Bulgaria, Italy and India – both male and female, and ranging in age from 7 to 70 plus!

The club meets every Tuesday and Wednesday night from 7-9pm with all abilities catered for – players include young beginners right up to former Irish Juniors. They are, however, appealing for more ladies of all ages to join and enjoy the benefits of a sport that is noncontact and suitable for most fitness levels, as well as people with disabilities and special needs.

The launch night on January 15 from 7pm is a chance for anybody wanting to find out more about the sport or to get involved to come along and see the setup. Refreshments will be provided, along with

Opening a new chapter for the new year were Mickey Harte’s charges on Sunday last. For the first time since just before the all Ireland final of 2003 Tyrone fielded a team without an all Ireland Celtic cross on show and yet it was a three point win against a vastly experienced Donegal in sticky, wet conditions.

Some great performances from goalkeeper Niall Morgan to corner forward Ronan O'Neill, and Tyrone still have a clutch of players to return for the national league campaign that starts again in February. Tyrone will continue their McKenna cup campaign against Queens and Armagh over the next fortnight and as young O'Neill suggested they want the full five games: "We are in this competition to win it. The McKenna cup is important to us and it’s an opportunity for a lot of us to stake a claim ahead of the national league. We want to reach the final and win it again, it’s the perfect build up as we prepare for division one again, five games at this time in the year is ideal."

Accies in emphatic win over Dungannon

Last season’s captain, Mervyn Edgar has donned the No2 shirt of late but took a more familiar back row berth on Saturday and it was he who opened the scoring with Ryan Mitchell also touching down, while David Ward added both conversions and tagged a pair of penalties for good measure. Omagh stepped up a gear in the second period; Mark Millar scored a try from a well executed maul, Andy McFarland notched another from a quickly taken tap and go while Alistair Beckett added a second half brace from the wing.

Ward added a score of his own and slotted over all five kicks with another good kicking display. This sets up Omagh well for their next match, a home league encounter against Grosvenor.

Omagh Accies advanced to the next round of the Town’s Cup with an emphatic 48-3 victory at home over a young Dungannon outfit that found themselves outmatched in every facet of play.

With captain and influential No.8 Andrew Ferguson out due to an ankle / lower leg injury, Smyth and Richard Harpur unavailable, and Aaron Shortt and Lee Murphy ruled out through sickness, the lineup took a different look with Andy Allen coming in at 10 and playing well, while Stuart Lyons slotted into the middle of the back row. The front row howver took an even more youthful look with hooker, Simon Monteith supported either side by Kyle Alexander and Steven Lyons.

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Eskra past and present charity match in aid of Omagh Special Olympics team.

Omagh Men in resounding 7-1 victory 2014 started in emphatic fashion for Omagh Mens Hockey team on Saturday when they crushed Parkview at Campsie. Although the result was comfortable for Omagh, they were still made to work for the points and it was only in the 2nd half when they began to take control of the game. The first half was a cagey affair with both sides obviously struggling from the lack of action over Christmas. Omagh had the best of the chances and after a few missed opportunities, Martin put the home side in front at the break after good work from Mackey. Parkview seemed to run out of steam as the 2nd half started and the flood gates opened. Andy Young made it 2-0 after a slick one touch passing move involving Martin, Mackey and Taylor.

Martin made it 3 shortly after as Omagh increased the pressure on the away goal. McCutcheon and Bates added to the goal tally with well placed finishes after more great team movement and possession. Parkview rarely threatened as Omagh dominated the game and it was no surprise when Taylor who was making his debut made it 6-0 to the home side with a cracking shot into the corner of the goal. The only blot on the copybook for Omagh came right at the end of the game when Parkview scored a consolation from a short corner after Bob Hawkes had produced a fantastic save to deny the initial effort. There was still time for Omagh to

score a 7th when McCutcheon’s effort was blocked on the line by a Parkview defender and a penalty flick was awarded which Geoff Hawkes coolly dispatched. Every member of the Omagh team can be proud of their performance and hopefully this will be carried into the next few weeks where the Tyrone side will face 3 of their rivals at the top of Junior 6.

Omagh Team: B.Hawkes, G.Hawkes, M.Quinn, B.Stevenson, A.Forbes, G.Sproule, C.Martin, T.Mackey, A.Young, M.Bates, J.McCutcheon, D.Taylor, D.Little Omagh's Geoff Hawkes omaghtoday | 49

NO ADULTS ALLOWED!!!

2013!

That was the year that was…

We take a look back at some of the news stories we were all talking about in the year gone past…

JANUARY Shoppers were shocked after it was revealed that foods advertised as containing beef had tested positive for horse and other animal DNA. The Food Safety Authority of Ireland was the first to publicise the findings and major food retailers were forced to withdraw hundreds of products from their shelves amid concerns about contamination.

FEBRUARY

Pope Benedict XVI announced his intention to resign – making him the first pope to do so since Gregory XII in 1415.

His successor was finally announced in March; Pope Francis is the first ever pope from South America and since he was inaugurated he has continued to make headlines for his less formal approach.

He refused many of the luxuries normally enjoyed by the pope and has also been seen to interact much more closely with people on official visits – smiling, laughing, and even kissing those who came out to see him.

MARCH

Army helicopters were brought in to deliver supplies and fodder to farmers cut off by the slow thawing snow and ice and a financial aid package was also put in place to help those worst affected by loss of livestock.

April Three people died and more than two hundred were injured when two ‘pressure cooker’ bombs exploded at the finish line of the Boston marathon on April 15. Three days later, photos and CCTV footage from the bombing showed two suspects who were later identified as two brothers from Chechnya. People were advised to stay indoors while a manhunt took place; the brothers were found and one was shot by police before being run over and killed by his brother as he escaped – but he too was later found, arrested and taken to hospital.

May Legendary football manager Sir Alex Ferguson retired from the helm at Manchester United after 26 years at the club. Regarded as one of the most successful managers of all time, Ferguson guided United to 894 victories during his career, including 13 Premier League titles and five FA Cup wins in addition to 20 other trophies. In the club’s most successful ever season, they won the Premier League, FA Cup, Champions League and Inter-Continental Cup in 1999 – and that same year, Ferguson was knighted by the Queen for services to football.

June

Unseasonal, heavy snow in the North of Northern Ireland (and indeed northern England and Scotland) brought chaos and tragedy to many people. Belfast suffered a total blackout after storms shut down the power network and high winds also caused massive snow drifts on exposed high ground, which caused the deaths of thousands of sheep and other animals who became buried in the snow as they sought shelter beside walls and hedges. omaghtoday | 50

The eyes of the world’s media turned on County Fermanagh as world leaders including Barack Obama, David Cameron and Angela Merkel flew into Northern

Ireland for the 39th G8 Summit which was held at the Lough Erne Golf Resort. There was lots of speculation over security and the threat from paramilitaries as well as the protesters who always travel to the G8; a ‘ring of steel’ was put in place around the hotel and millions was spent on drafting in extra security personnel. In the end, the summit passed off peacefully with only two arrests and not a single security alert. And David Cameron even enjoyed a swim in Lough Erne!

July July was a busy month which got off to a great start when Andy Murray became the first British man to win the men’s final at Wimbledon since Fred Perry in 1936! Murray’s Wimbledon victory came off the back of a win at the 2012 US Open and an Olympic Gold medal at London 2012. He beat Serbian Novak Djokovic 6-4 7-5 6-4.

Meanwhile the country eagerly awaited the birth of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s first child. His Royal Highness Prince George Alexander Louis of Cambridge entered the world on July 22 at 4.24pm weighing a healthy 8lb 6oz.

August More than 1400 people including many children were killed after an alleged chemical weapons attack in the suburbs of Damascus, Syria. There were mixed reports about who was responsible for the attacks and international governments had different opinions over whether to take military strike action, leading to political tensions over the possibility of another war in the Middle East.

September Scientists revealed that Voyager 1, launched from Earth 35 years ago, has left our Solar System and gone into interstellar space. NASA scientists confirmed that the space probe had left

If you have a cute pic of your pet, our readers would love to see it. Send it to pat@ omaghtoday.com or Tel: 07712 840985

the influence of our Sun and was now over 11 billion miles away. On its way out of our solar system the probe took a photo of our planet, seen as a tiny blue dot.

October Scientists working on a cure for Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia, which affect mostly older people and cause symptoms such as confusion and memory loss, made a breakthrough. Tests on mice showed that a new drug was successful in preventing the death of brain tissue, raising hopes that a cure for the disease will be found sometime in the future.

November The word ‘selfie’ was added to the Oxford Dictionaries online edition and also named ‘Word of the Year’ for 2013, defined as “a photograph that one has taken of oneself, typically with a smartphone or webcam and uploaded to a social media website". Famous selfies from 2013 include one of Pope Francis who posed with a group of young Italians in Rome, Samantha Cameron’s sister who posted a photo of herself on Instagram not realizing that the Prime Minister was asleep on a bed behind her, Beyonce’s preview of her newly-cropped locks and the Obama girls snapping themselves at their dad’s inauguration!

December There was sadness in South Africa and around the world as news came through that Nelson Mandela had died aged 95 following a long period of ill health. Mandela was jailed in the early 1960s for treason as a result of his efforts to achieve equality for black people in the whitedominated South Africa and spent more than 27 years in prison during which time there was an international campaign for his release. When this finally happened in 1990 he was elected the first black president of his country and went on to become a symbol of freedom, unity and dignity, held in deep respect by people all over the world for his efforts to end racial and sectarian discrimination.

Below: This is George, a Staffy cross puppy who lives with the Porter family in Omagh, fast asleep after his Christmas dinner. isn't he gorgeous?

Christmas is . . . . . . . . a time to rest.

Above Eilish Kelly's Ally (brown) and diesel, (white) two staffs are just showing us how to make the most of the season as they look so cute and cuddly.

Kattie in the Sun Our recent holiday competition finished in Issue 76 but we all love to dream of those lazy hazy summer holidays.

Young Omagh Today reader and Garvaghey resident Kattie McCaffrey extended her summer and enjoyed an autumn holiday with her parents in Spain. If you have a nice holiday pic we would be delighted to publish. Send, with a few details, to info@ omaghtoday.com

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