Ot81 web

BALLYGAWLEY | BERAGH | CARRICKMORE | DROMORE | DRUMQUIN | FINTONA | GORTIN LOUGHMACRORY | MOUNTFIELD | SIXMILECROSS | SESKINORE | NEWTOWNSTEWART

ISSUE 81

Thursday 6th February 2014 EVERY FORTNIGHT

p4 Onwards and Upwards - That’s Omagh man Stevie McKenna’s motto for everything, from work, to cycling, to life in general

DAWN TIL DUSK CYCLE.. p08

WET, WET, WET! ONLY £1.25

FEATURE p18

FEATURE p26

Roscavey P. S. parents and grand parents pass on the tradition of St. Brigid's cross making.

Ninety years young!

Seskinore granny reveals her secrets for a long and happy life.

Welcome...

ISSUE 81 | FEB 6th 2014 20

43

32

25

42

FEBRUARY AT LOOOONNNG LAST!

4

Big Interview

6

NEW Page Six Engagements, weddings, babies, gossip…

14

A Single Girls Guide to Valentines Day

26

Work hard and keep smiling - Omagh nonagenarian’s secret to a long and happy life

34

Omagh-born accessories designer scores job at Jimmy Choo

38

And it’s the month of luurrve!! OK, maybe most of us are past all that carry-on, but the arrival of February always puts a spring in your step and a twinkle in your eye, even if only because it’s never long til payday!

One man who always has a spring in his step is Omagh Wheeler and all-round Duracell bunny, Stephen McKenna – his seemingly boundless reserves of energy have not only propelled him to the top of amateur cycling in Ireland, but have also spilled over to the benefit of the local cycling club, which has seen a dramatic turnaround in its fortunes since he got involved three years ago. It’s a massive juggling act, and not one many of us could handle – check out our interview on page 4.

Keeping busy is the mantra of another local – this time a very inspiring lady who has recently reached her milestone 90th birthday! Mrs Sarah McCracken spent most of her life performing a juggling act between family and work, with none of the ‘mod cons’ most modern day mums rely on to make life easier, and she says that working hard and keeping a smile on her face are the secret to her longevity – check out her birthday celebrations with family and friends inside.

We also caught up with the talented Omagh designer making waves on the fashion scene in London – Lindsey Tait is about to take up a position with Jimmy Choo, no less! (We’re not a bit jealous, not one bit.)

And don’t miss our new ‘Page Six’ feature – we’ve copied the NY Post and are officially seeking your wedding, engagement, graduation and new baby pics – so if you’ve got a reason to celebrate, we want to know about it! Send your pics to claire@omaghtoday. com.

It’s been a busy fortnight of photo coverage too; Pat has been buzzing about at a whole heap of functions and events including the Strule Dolphins run in Loughmacrory, Grandparents’ Day at Eskra Primary School, Enterprise and Employability Week at Omagh High School, Breige Daly’s 50th birthday, a farewell to Sean Holden and lots more!

Finally, our ‘Pinboard’ page proved really popular last issue so we’ve decided to continue with it and you’ll find another page of great discounts inside, so get clipping those coupons! See you in two weeks!

READ/BUY OMAGH TODAY

Voice of history

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

ADVERTISING

Email - ads@omaghtoday.com or telephone Pat - 077 1284 0985

PHOTOGRAPHY

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

LETTERS

Email: claire@omaghtoday.com | pat@omaghtoday.com Tel. 028 8075 8078

Printed by Ecclesville Printing, Fintona - 028 8284 0048 - www.epsni.com - info@epsni.com

omaghtoday | 3

THAT’S OMAGH MAN STEVIE MCKENNA’S MOTTO FOR EVERYTHING, FROM WORK, TO CYCLING, TO LIFE IN GENERAL – AND HE’S PROOF THAT THE HARDER YOU WORK, THE LUCKIER YOU GET…

Y

OU might think that all it takes to move cycling forward is sheer pedal power, but have a chat with local man and Omagh Wheelers Cycling Club chairman Stevie McKenna and you’ll quickly realize it’s not quite that simple.

Cycling in Omagh has come on in leaps and bounds over recent years, with local club Omagh Wheelers leading the way; road race events in this area now carry major weight on the national cycling circuit and just last week, Omagh District Council held a civic reception for the Wheelers after the club was crowned Cycling Ireland’s ‘Club of Year’. While he’s quick to stress that he has a great team of people around him and could by no means do it alone, there’s no getting away from the fact that the driving force behind much of this success is Stevie.

Slight and very smiley, Stevie is a ball of energy – and it’s a good job too, because as well as competing at the top level of amateur cycling in Ireland in his own right, and now entering the second year of his chairmanship at the Wheelers, he’s also dad to three boys under seven, and working full time

omaghtoday | 4

as an IT consultant in Belfast, commuting daily to the city.

Just thinking about juggling all that would be enough to make most of us tired, but Stevie’s ‘go hard or go home’ attitude pervades every aspect of his life, from work to family to cycling.

And it’s perhaps no surprise; his dad Leo McKenna is no stranger to clocking up the miles either,

having worked for many years as a coal man in Omagh, and been involved in cycling locally since the 1970s, while his mum Mary, now aged 74, is currently preparing to run her ninth consecutive Belfast marathon.

It’s not hard, therefore, to imagine Stevie as an active child who rarely sat still for long, and certainly with both his dad and his older brother Kieran involved in cycling he was no stranger to the sport, but it wasn’t until he was in his late teens that he first dipped his toe in the racing waters – and shortly afterwards, he headed off to Jordanstown to university, where he admits he had more important things on his mind than cycling – and not necessarily study!

He says: “For the next eight years I didn’t even touch a bike! I suppose I’ve always had an interest in it but I lacked the time and really the focus to do anything about it until 2005, when I joined East Antrim Cycling Club in Newtownabbey. I was working by then and me and my wife Veronica were living in Belfast. I started training with them and in my first year I was pretty successful in racing – I won the Newry 3-Day which is quite a big event and then the following year I competed in what’s now known as the An Post Ras which is an international race around Ireland, covering about 110 miles a day. The team I was part of at that time included a guy called Martyn Irvine who

became world champion on the track last year and although I never had a hunger to follow that sort of path I suppose it gives an idea of the level I was competing at. I have always had a reputation for training really hard – and in those days I didn’t necessarily train smart, I was still learning all the time but the hard work did yield some pretty good results.

“Then in 2006 I stopped competing because our first son came along, and I ended up taking pretty much a complete break until 2010. When the boys were born we decided to move back home to be closer to our families and we built a house.

During that time though I was involved in the administrative side; I had been approached by Cycling Ulster who knew my professional background and they appointed me to the Road Commission, so I was in charge of all road racing events over a two year period, and I also did my training as a commissaire [the cycling equivalent of a referee]. After those two years I was planning to take a complete break but it didn’t really go to plan because then the national body, Cycling Ireland, asked me to take on a development officer

role.”

In this new role Stevie was in charge of developing the youth side of cycling for under 23s; organizing training camps all over the country, taking young cyclists to events across Europe and organizing competitions.

“For me personally I felt that when I was that age there was no real structure or focus, I didn’t get the right guidance to help me progress and that led to me going away from cycling for eight years. Having returned to the sport and been quite successful, I was glad of the opportunity to put something back,” he says.

“My second year with Cycling Ireland was a turning point, though.

It was a challenge to drive initiatives forward at national level and even though there was work going on at provincial level too, there was very little happening at the grass roots. And around that same time I decided it was time to get back on the bike; I suppose I felt there was a new crop of people coming through that didn’t know my background as a cyclist, rather than as a coach or a commissaire, and there was an element of wanting to prove to myself that I could still do it.”

By now settled in Eskra, in 2011 Stevie decided to go along to Omagh Wheelers, where his dad was a member – and neither he nor the club has ever looked back.

“The club had about 100 members but there was very little structure and in particular

there was very little knowledge about racing, so I was just keen to bring some of the things I had learned over the previous years to the table and see what benefits that could bring. It’s credit to the members that it showed nearly straight away – that first winter went really well in terms of training and we enjoyed an unprecedented level of success in the subsequent year as well as seeing the emergence of some talented young riders – we really became one of the ones to watch on the racing circuit, and we’ve never looked back since.

“It’s really just been about building on the positivity and team spirit, having somebody to provide a bit of leadership. I

IT’S REALLY JUST BEEN ABOUT BUILDING ON THE POSITIVITY AND TEAM SPIRIT certainly don’t know it all, but we have great members and some really talented riders and all the club needed was somebody to step in and provide a bit of cohesion and motivation to help them achieve their goals, and to bring riders progressively on as a group.”

Another one of the things Stevie felt passionately about was youth development, and with the help of another Omagh Wheelers key player Enda Harpur, the

club is blazing a trail for young riders (as well as beginners of all ages) in Northern Irish cycling.

The club uses the track at Youth Sport Omagh to teach basic cycling skills and road etiquette, designed to keep riders safe and help them get the most enjoyment out of the sport – there are almost 30 10-16 year olds training each week, which means the future looks increasingly bright for Omagh Wheelers.

And there’s plenty going on for the senior cyclists too; last year Stevie secured the All-Ireland Championship for the club, in the competition’s first year back in Ulster for some time, while the annual McCann Cup competition has become a flagship event for the Wheelers, attracting a massive entry of cyclists from all over the country.

Also in that category is a relatively new kid on the block, the threeday ‘Tour of Omagh’ event, which has rapidly established itself as one of the best races of its type in Ireland – testament to the professionalism and passion that Stevie and his teammates pour into everything they do.

It was with surprise and delight that the club accepted their Club of the Year award from Cycling Ireland, fending off competition from 350 other groups, while a shocked Stevie was crowned Volunteer of the Year in his own right.

“It was great for the club to be recognized,” he says. “Even to be nominated was an honour and we never expected to win!

But it was very satisfying from a club point of view and of course for me personally, although I can’t take any credit on my own – in everything I’ve done, I’ve had great people behind me and I couldn’t do it without them. When I started at Omagh Wheelers I could see that as far as cycling was concerned, the north west was regarded as a second class citizen; the big clubs around Belfast had the money and the connections and the structures in place, and I was really keen to see cycling in the west of the province developing and clubs here becoming the ones to watch in racing, and we have made massive progress with that which is very satisfying to see.

We are leading by example now in the way we run our club.”

And that includes every aspect of running the club – IT whizz Stevie has even redesigned its website.

Add to that the fact that he’s still competing himself at the top amateur level, and it brings a whole new meaning to the term ‘leading from the front’. A typical day sees him up before 5am so he can drive to Belfast and fit in a gym session before work. He’s thankful that his job role allows him to work from home on occasions, and travelling back and forth to England also means he can take an occasional day off midweek – time that’s crucial to his most important role as daddy to Eoghan, Matthew and Oisin, and also important for catching up on Omagh Wheelers admin – not to mention getting out on the bike for a few hours as often as he can. Sleep, he admits, is pretty far down his list of priorities – and as if that wasn’t enough, he was also recently asked by Cycling Ireland to sit on the selection panel for the Irish cycling team at this year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow!

“As my wife tells me often, I bring it all on myself,” he laughs. “But I’ve always been a bit like that – I believe in doing something to the best of your ability, or not doing it at all. It’s a double-edged sword sometimes – when I ride I’m competing against guys who are professional cyclists and don’t have a day job or all the club stuff to deal with, but I know if I wasn’t competing at that level then I’d find it very hard to get motivated. I’d find it really hard to be an occasional cyclist!”

Stevie says he’ll step down as Wheelers chairman at the end of his second year, freeing up some much-needed time for family, but there’s little doubt that his contribution so far has already cemented his place in the club’s history books.

And there’s a busy few months ahead, starting with the Valentine’s Day leisure run (fancy dress optional) on February 16, with proceeds going to Prostate Cancer, and the competitive Reliability Trial on the same day with two routes – one 50, one 70 miles – to challenge the more serious cyclists.

Training is also in full swing for juniors and beginners on Saturday mornings at Youth Sport, and there’s a weekly club run catering for all abilities departing from Sally’s each Sunday morning.

For further details visit www. omaghwheelers.co.uk or find the club on Facebook.

omaghtoday | 5

PAGE

Engagements, weddings, babies, gossip…

well, if it’s good enough for the NewYork Post, it’s good enough for us!

Miss Emma Crawford, daughter of John and Judith Crawford, Omagh, pictured with her husband Richard Alcorn, also from Omagh, after they tied the knot on August 1, 2013 at First Omagh Presbyterian Church. The couple met when they were both pupils at Omagh Academy and got engaged in 2011 at Benone beach. Their wedding reception was held at the Killyhevlin Hotel, Enniskillen. Photo: Erica Irvine Photography.

Miss Jane Morrow, daughter of George and Heather Morrow, Omagh, pictured with her fiancé Matthew Wright from Armagh. The couple got engaged last year whilst travelling; Matthew got permission from Jane’s parents and bought a ring before leaving Northern Ireland, and popped the question three weeks into their trip at the beautiful Whitsunday Islands, Australia. The pair then travelled on to Thailand and didn’t tell the world their big news until they returned home a month later!

Matthew and Jane will tie the knot this summer at The Carriage Rooms at the Montalto Estate, Co. Down. Photo: Blackbox Photography

Mr Gavan Burns and his wife Claire (neé McGinn), who tied the knot at St MacCartan’s Church in Trillick on November 16, 2013. The couple, who are both from the village, met on a night out in Packie’s Bar and Gavan later popped the question during a trip to Westport, Co. Mayo. Gavan and Claire have set up home together in Trillick. Photo: Paula Donnelly Photography.

Mary Wilson, originally from Omagh’s Tamlaght Road, married William (Billy) Green from Newcastle, England on January 4, 2014 at Omagh’s Sacred Heart Church with reception afterwards at the Silverbirch Hotel. The couple, who now live and work in Melbourne, Australia, first met on the Isle of Man where Mary was working as a site engineer for Lagan Construction and Billy was a steefixer. Billy asked Mary out for a drink on Valentine’s Day 2006 and seven years later to the day, he proposed at the St Kilda Esplanade, the place they first stopped their camper van when they arrived in Melbourne.

Family and friends from across the UK converged on Omagh for their special day, and the couple enjoyed a honeymoon in the USA before returning ‘down under’.

Photo: Katrina Taggart Photography..

omaghtoday | 6

Exclusive Designer Bridal Gowns & Accessories

Tyrone’s sole supplier of Sophia Tulli Gowns

Showroom closed Fridays Late night by appointment only Telephone: (028) 8676 5433 Mobile: 07780 841859

Bramble Cottage, 35 Lismoney Road, Cookstown, Co. Tyrone, BT80 8RH omaghtoday | 7

TALKOFTHETOWN Torrential rain fails to deter Denamona ‘Dawn to Dusk’ bikers

BRAVE cyclists from the Friends of Denamona Association were undeterred by horrendous weather conditions as they completed their ‘Dawn to Dusk’ mountain bike relay event at Blessingbourne Estate on Saturday. The event was the brainchild of Fintona man Adrian Flood, and the group of 12 bikers settled on the Alzheimer’s Society as their second beneficiary in recognition of the charity’s work, which has directly benefited Adrian’s family. Despite torrential rain that refused to let up, the cyclists spent the entire day completing paired laps of the ten-mile cross country course at Blessingbourne which was no mean feat considering the conditions! The group is planning a number of other fundraising events during 2014 and plans to make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Society later in the year. You can still make a donation via the Friends of Denamona Facebook page.

Megan Owens, Steven Patterson, Laura McCann and Donna Owens who took part in a 12-hour treadmill challenge to raise funds for Cancer Focus at SuperValu, Fintona on Saturday.

Omagh Community Festival hopes to unite young and old A PUBLIC meeting was held last week in Omagh to determine interest in proposals for a brand new local event showcasing everything that’s great about our town.

Plans are afoot to launch the first ever ‘Omagh Community Festival’ this summer, and the organisers are appealing for volunteers and talented local people interested in taking part to get in touch.

The date for the festival has been provisionally set for August 8-10 and the plan is essentially to try and co-ordinate many of the fantastic entertainment events that take place in and around the town into one concentrated weekend of fun and activity for all the family – things like street entertainment, family fun, sport, art, drama, comedy and live music.

With a schedule of events in place, it’s hoped that the event will have the town centre buzzing with activity from morning til night – and with a few top secret ‘flagship’ events also being discussed, there’s a genuine hope that some of the craic and community spirit of yesteryear can be revived for a new generation in Omagh, and enjoyed by everyone.

Another public meeting will be held tonight (Thursday) at 7.30pm in Omagh Community House and is open to everyone, including individuals, businesses and community groups from right across the Omagh District.

For further information call: 07793317010.

Donna Owens, Cancer Focus NI presents Garvan Hegarty, SuperValu, Fintona with a gift for his assistance with the 12 hour treadmill sponsored event.

Do you have an upcoming event or story to tell?

Contact claire@omaghtoday.com or tel. 077 2563 1646 or pat@omaghtoday.com or tel. 077 1284 0985

Would you like to advertise in Omagh Today?

Email ads@omaghtoday.com or telephone Brendan 078 8431 3385 or 028 8075 8078 omaghtoday | 8

Mindbender Meade to address local businesses FAMOUS illusionist David Meade will be the guest speaker at a seminar aimed at small to medium sized businesses in the town on Tuesday, February 25.

The exclusive, free seminar entitled ‘A Masterclass in Innovation’ 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.

Guest speaker David Meade has become one of Europe's most dynamic, engaging, and sought-after keynote speakers, with a client list that features some of the world's most successful organisations, including PWC, Institute of Directors, Bombardier Aerospace, and Easyjet. He is a researcher and lecturer in International Business with the University of Ulster and has a reputation for an innovative style that forces audiences to think critically about the challenges that confront them. Of course, he’s also well known as an entertainer – most recently he made headlines across Northern Ireland when he spent several hours suspended, seemingly without support, from a wall at

Belfast’s Victoria Square.

In this seminar, David will take his audience through an energetic session that promises to engage and inspire. Drawing from a range of top level research in leadership and innovation, he will show how cuttingedge innovation techniques can be used in the workplace to improve decision making, communication, motivation, and leadership. At the end of the session, delegates will leave with a sound toolkit that they can use to improve their own organisational productivity, effectiveness, and efficiency.

Speaking about the forthcoming seminar, the chairman of Omagh District Council, Martin McColgan said: “I am delighted that the Innovation Omagh Programme has organised this superb one-off event for businesses in the District. This is an exclusive seminar that will highlight the importance of innovation, and will empower the audience with techniques that can be used to improve competitiveness.

“The council was keen to get David involved in one of our seminars, as he brings a lot of energy, enthusiasm and insight into the challenges of running a successful business in today’s world. He has shown some of the most successful organisations in You are invited to a Seminar: the world how they can improve and become more efficient and effective.”

Innovation Omagh is a programme designed to support local SMEs within the Omagh District with an overarching goal of placing Innovation, Research and Development at the core of local On: Tuesday 25 February 2014 business growth. The programme also provides businesses with oneIn: Strule Arts Centre, Omagh to-one mentoring support from a From: 6.00pm – 7.30pm specialist business expert.

Light Refreshments Provided The seminar will be held in the Strule Arts Centre, Omagh on Tuesday, February 25 from 6pm to 7.30pm.

KEY NOTE SPEAKER To book a place at the seminar or This project is part funded by Invest Northern Ireland and the European Regional Development Fund under the find out more about the Innovation David Meade Sustainable Competitiveness Programme for Northern Ireland Omagh Programme contact the Business Innovation Co-ordinator To reserve your place please contact the Business Innovation Coordinator on by email: andrea.mcguckin@omagh.

Tel: 079 7166 0521 Email: andrea.mcguckin@omagh.gov.uk gov.uk or telephone 028 8224 5321

David Meade: A Masterclass in Innovation

omaghtoday | 9

In postcard collecting there is a great debate about when the first picture postcard was produced. That is to say a picture postcard which was produced and sent successfully through the post. Many individuals created illustrated cards to be sent to friends only to have them intercepted by the Post Office. These are some of the first earliest Post Office approved cards of Omagh. The first card is the earliest colour view of Omagh I have seen. In dating views of High Street a few dates are critical. The Inniskillen Monument was erected in November 1904 so this card is pre 1904 at least.

The other clue to the date of this card is the scaffolding around the Sacred Heart. The fact that we can only see one spire means that the photo was taken pre 1900. If the other spire had been finished we would be able to see it from this angle. The card was published by W Ritchie and Sons although it is unaccredited. I know this from other versions of the card I have. The card itself is un posted and was probably published around 1903 - 1904. It was not unusual for postcard publishers to use images they had in stock. The man on the left with the walking stick looks very Victorian and adds foreground interest to the photo.

Until recently I and others were uncertain as to the publisher of the next three cards. It had been suggested that they may be early cards by Valentines of Dundee as they had specialised in producing early images of towns before the craze for postcards took off. However a study of the backs of these cards reveals

that they were also by W Ritchie. They were all posted between 1902 and 1904 and could have been on sale from as early as 1901.

The space for the date means that they were produced after 1900 but how soon after it is difficult to say. The images themselves, as opposed to the cards, in all likelihood date from around 1895.

The scenes: High Street, the Convent and St Columba's (shown here as Drumagh Church) are possibly just three in a series of six.

Possible but not certain. The images are of buildings rather than people in the street. The long exposure time meant that people who moved either disappeared completely or appeared as blurs.

I have thought about what the other three cards, if they exist, might be. My guess would be: the Infirmary (junction of High Street and Market Street), St. Peter's and St Paul's Brook Street and the Second Presbyterian Church Dublin Road. Of course they might just as well be: the Leap Bridge, the Ulster Hall and the Second Presbyterian Church (Trinity). Unless you see the cards there is just no way of knowing.

The craze for collecting postcards and putting them in albums took off about 1905 so these cards may well have been too early for them to be collected in great numbers. Two of the last three cards were sent to France and the other one was sent locally. I can only hope that more early cards have survived and will turn up.

postcards@mgtaggart.com postcards@mgtaggart.com

omaghtoday | 10

So, it’s the first of February as I attempt to fill this column, and believe me, I’ll do well to fill it as there is really no news worth talking about on the local angling scene right now, but I’ll give it a go …

THE WEIGH INN ANGLING CLUB I had a chat with ND in relation to the Weigh Inn Angling Club and asked him what the club had planned for this season; here’s the plan: Sea outings The club have organised several sea fishing trips as follows: 25th May, Downings: 8 rods; 22nd June, Rathmullan 16 rods 2 x boats (Mickey Donaghy Memorial Competition); 17th August, tope fishing, 16 rods, 2 boats, Culdaff; 31st August Burtonport, 8 rods, 2nd boat possible, if needed.

FREE Fly tying classes 4 week course sponsored by The Weigh Inn: starting Tuesday 11th Feb. 7pm til 9-30 pm at The Weigh Inn. Open Charity Fly Fishing Competition Charity ‘Open Trout Competition’ at Birchwood fishery on Sunday 23rd March, proceeds to Alzheimer’s, food and refreshments provided. £25 entry fee, maximum 35 rods.

Now taking new members for The Weigh Angling Club £10 for the year, call in to the bar for more details.

MEETINGS I had a discussion with a committee member of OAA this morning and I can now confirm that the AGM is to be held on the 27th February (at Omagh Library, I assume, as usual). It is generally a very informative evening and is the perfect platform for any anglers to raise their concerns with the association in relation to angling matters on OAA controlled stretches.

One of the things that I would like to see materialise is a newly designed and updated map of the waters that OAA currently control. It’s really down to the fact that the current map is of very poor quality and that recently formed syndicates and clubs have laid claim to certain stretches that were once OAA beats. I feel a definitive map ought to be produced to clarify exactly where we (OAA members) are allowed to fish with our permits without fear of a tap on the shoulder to spoil the mood. I have seen signs on Lissan Bridge on the Drumragh, and on the stretches downstream from the Mellon Country Hotel, and coupled with the confusion over the access rights at the Dry Arch on the Drumragh, a map would help to clarify the situation.

I should also highlight the AGM for Loughmacrory and Murrins District Angling Association has been confirmed as taking place in ‘mid February’ – I’d keep an eye on the Omagh Angling Forum on Facebook for an exact date, closer to the time.

HYDRO BULL I have been reliably informed that the Hydro in the Camowen to power the leisure centre has been in full operation in recent days due to the high water levels that the river is currently carrying. At £1.4 million you’d imagine that this piece of engineering is performing as well as it should – apparently not! The bottom guard on the controversial installation is reportedly being held together with a piece of bull wire! Tragically I doubt very much that this is the last time we hear the term ‘bull….’ mentioned in the same sentence as the hydro!

Well, I did it! I filled the column! This will get easier when the season gets underway, the first one being the Loughmacrory Stillwater season which opens on March 1.

Tight lines!

MC omaghtoday | 11

Charlie

As it was to where it is now No. 81

Andy Gordon

I am trying extremely hard not to turn into a grumpy old man! Last time I was complaining about cinemas and cinema goers, and I had chastised myself for being so critical. I promised myself that next time I would write about trivial happenings, to which no-one out there could take offence. Not that anybody should have taken offence about my rant regarding eating in the cinema – except those who make our evenings watching the latest blockbuster unbearable by stuffing their faces with smelly nachos and melted cheese!

Sorry! I do apologise. There I go again. Just a minute while I swallow these.

That’s better, now where was I? Ah yes – grumpy old men.

So, I recently went to the Strule Arts Centre to see the Ultimate Eagles. Those of you good at puzzles and crosswords will have deduced that they are an Eagles tribute band. I hadn’t intended to go, as I am not a great fan of tribute bands. After all I can sit at home and listen to the real thing on LP or CD, and even watch them on DVD, so why pay good money to see a pale imitation of a really good act? No matter, I went along to accompany two Eagles fans.

Now you might imagine that at my advanced age, and with all the years driving the roads of Tyrone and Fermanagh, doing discos for youth clubs, rugby clubs and other upstanding organisations during the 70s and 80s, my hearing would not be the best – and I would agree. Just the other week I had my hearing checked and was told that my top end was starting to fall away – not something you want to hear. In fact, as my top end was falling away, I didn’t even hear it!

Back to the Ultimate Eagles. I was not prepared for what was about to happen. After a beautiful opening number, where all six members sang wonderful Eagle type harmonies, we were almost blasted out of the theatre. For a group aspiring to emulate their heroes, they proceeded to do everything the Eagles would not have done – they pounded us with a deafening, over the top rhythm section, that succeeded in not only drowning out the singers, but also the two guitarists, who looked like they might be useful.

Now if I had been with Owen, he would have been straight up to the sound man and demanded that he turn it down, but I haven’t quite got the confidence to take that step – yet.

I was prepared to leave at the interval, so as not to have my top ends fall any further, but then they did ‘Lying Eyes’, and lo and behold, the racket that had been going on suddenly disappeared, and all of a sudden we could hear the vocals, and more importantly – for me anyway – the splendid guitar solos.

And I was right - the two guitarists not only looked useful - they were useful. But I then thought that as this was naturally a quiet number, they would revert to their booming and bashing, but no – from then onwards the sound was good, well balanced and suited to the theatre. As this was 40 minutes into their set, I can only deduce that their sound man’s top end had fallen even further than mine, and he needed a gentle word from Dermott to let him know how to put things right!

As I said, the guitarists were, for me, the highlight of the evening.

But I have to tell you – they had 17 - yes, 17 guitars on stage with them! Les Pauls, Stratocasters, Telecasters – all sorts of guitars – every one needed to replicate the many varying sounds

omaghtoday | 12

& andY

produced by the Eagles throughout their career, And to top it off, when they returned to do ‘Hotel California’ as an encore, they brought a further beast of a guitar out – one with twin necks – a twelve string neck and a standard six string neck! Now I’m not sure if that makes it 18, or 18 and a half guitars!

Anyway, I’m off to swallow a few more of these anti-grumpy old man pills…

Charlie Taggart

One of my favourite country duet tracks is ‘The Next Time I’m in Town’, a duet with Mark Knopfler and Chet Atkins. This song was written by Mark Knopfler, and is on the collaboration CD ‘Neck And Neck’ with Chet Atkins, released in 1990. The Dire Straits performer has made several excursions into country music including forming a country-influenced band, The Notting Hillbillies. This band released one CD ‘Missing… Presumed Having A Good Time’, in 1990 and had a minor hit with it. Over the years Knopfler has performed with many country stars including John Anderson and Kris Kristofferson. In 1994 Knopfler played guitar for George Jones on the CD ‘The Bradley Barn Sessions’.

The song in question was the well-known ‘White Lightning’, but Knopfler manages to give it an interesting freshness and immediacy. In 2008 Bandit records released a George Jones CD entitled ‘Burn Your Playhouse Down’ and consisting of seven unreleased tracks from the Bradley Barn Sessions and five other tracks dating back as far as the mid 1970s. One of the Bradley tracks is ‘I Always Get Lucky With You’, a duet with George Jones and Mark Knopfler. This might not be George Jones’s best ever recording but it has historical interest and is indicative of the broad compass of country music. George has claimed that Melba Montgomery was his favourite duet partner and they definitely do a haunting version of ‘We Must Have Been Out of Our Minds’ together. In 2006 Knopfler and Emmylou Harris released a country album ‘All the Roadrunning’, this was so successful that it was followed by CD/DVD titled ‘Real Live Roadrunning’. In 2011 Knopfler appeared with John Prine, Nick Lowe, Robert Plant and many other artists on the CD ‘Adios Amigo’. This was a tribute album to country blues singer Arthur Alexander, who died in 1993 at age 53. Lately Knopfler has been working with Jimmy Buffett who has his own wind and weather style of country music. Knopfler wrote and played guitar on the ‘0ldest Surfer on the Beach’.

I have previously paid tribute to Pete Seeger’s great career and his outspoken comments on the country he loved - he was not afraid to take sides. Pete Seeger is quoted as saying: “Melody and music bring people together and are vital for the survival of the human race.” His music has influenced many artists including Dolly Parton and Bruce Springsteen. Spingsteen’s ‘Seeger Sessions’ are a joy to listen to. Dolly, accompanied by Nora Jones and Lee Ann Womack, sings an intimate version of ‘Where Have All the Flowers Gone?’ on the ‘Those Were The Days’ album. Pete Seeger often explained that his greatest joy was when his audience sang along with him; let’s not disappoint him.

The music business is changing and we must make every effort to adapt and be informed. Have you heard about the man who walked into a record shop and asked the assistant: “Have you anything by The Doors?” “Yes,” she said. “A bucket and a fire extinguisher.”

Record attendance at Q8 Oils Spring farm show in Fintona

cCartney rtney of M tthew and a C c M rd a Richa Rachel, M . troduces his quads f o e n Motors in o to n to s n Tommy Fu

ormley w ith his un cle Jerome c heck out

Adrian Cathers, Drumnakilly Supplies Ltd with John from Minexecl and Helen from animal tags sales at his stand.

Robert Rid dell and s on at their A TV's stand .

Thomas Lawson at the Herbst Machinery display.

from Donnelly Stephen Top Tools

Vincent G

Robert Walker and Victor Preston.

Wendy Dolan, in rt a M Christie and Lavelle itello at the R Gallagher nd.

Ireland sta

Ken and Karen Hamilton, Best choice garage doors/Roller Shutters and blinds.

James and Rosemary McAnenly

arland, Ernie McF h it w s d d uchanan Diane Do on, Tom B s in b o R Richard and. ter McFarl and Alais

Raymond O'Hara with Joan Hamilton, Care for Cancer Omagh

Shane Do nnelly fro m Top Tools

THOUSANDS of visitors descended on Fintona’s Ecclesville Centre last week for the Q8 Oils Spring Farm Machinery Show, organized by local company AJS Promotions. The show has become the biggest event of its kind in Ireland and is a one-stop shop for farmers and contractors, many of whom travel quite a distance to get an exclusive preview of the latest offerings from the top machinery manufacturers from across Europe. “Certainly we had a number of official launches and new products,” said promoter Andrew Short. “It was bigger this year and the layout was improved upon. This is essentially the show farmers and contractors support because it’s the biggest and their needs are catered for at the one venue.” omaghtoday | 13

Valentine’s Day…you either love it or you hate it! But if you’re single this year, don’t fret – our newest contributor Nicola Mulligan is on hand with some sanity-saving advice for single gals!

It’s that time again folks, February the 14th is just around the corner!

Gentlemen, you can leave the mountain of roses, chocolates and ‘I love you’ cards that I’m expecting, on my doorstep. Ha, joke...I’m a single pringle this year. If you are also a girl who is unattached, then you’ll appreciate that this day is filled with the impending doom of spinsterhood and the frustration of having to watch loved up couples slobbering all over each other...boke! I had planned to spend this Valentine’s Day blubbering into a huge tub of Ben and Jerry’s and drinking myself into a coma to numb the pain of being alone. But not any more! I figured that if couples can celebrate love, then why can’t I celebrate singledom? So my fellow single gals, instead of buying forty cats and becoming crazy cat ladies, why don’t we all celebrate the fact that we don’t have a ball and chain telling us what to do? With that in mind, check out these inspiring ways to celebrate this Valentine’s Day as a singleton. Have fun!

1. GO OUT ON THE TOWN.

Turn off that soppy rom-com and step away from the TV! You are not going to wallow in the misery of being single this Valentine’s Day. Grab your single girlfriends, dress head to toe in glitz and glam and hit the clubs for a night on the town. Ensure to down those cocktails like there’s no tomorrow and dance proudly to Beyonce’s ‘Single Ladies.’

2. BUY YOURSELF A GIFT.

Who says you need a man to buy you a gift on Valentine’s Day? They never get it right anyway, so why not treat yourself this year? Splash out and buy a pair of hot heels or that sparkly necklace you’ve had your eye on. Go on...work that bling, omaghtoday | 14

you know you want to.

3. DO A SECRET VALENTINE. Amongst your group of girlfriends, pull names out of a hat and buy each other chocolates and flowers. You could go all out and deliver them personally to each other’s houses or places of work. That way everyone feels the love and more importantly, those slave drivers that you work for will think you’re really popular.

4. TAKE A GUY FRIEND OUT FOR DINNER- if you fancy going out for a meal, take a guy friend along with you. That way you won’t look like Billy No Mates amongst all the other loved up couples. Make it fun by observing the couples around you and guessing whether or not any of them will last.

5. HOST A SINGLES PARTY.

You know what they say, one woman’s trash is another woman’s treasure.

Invite all your girlfriends and ask them to bring along an ex boyfriend, (one who didn’t cheat of them of course) and let the flirting begin. You never know, when the beer goggles are on, you may find your own Mr Darcy and never have to spend another Valentine’s Day single again!

6. BRING THE MAN CANDY TO YOUR LIVING ROOM. Just because you don’t have any man candy of your own this year, doesn’t mean you have to mope around. Arm yourself with movies starring all your favourite hotties, invite the girls over and let the drooling commence. ‘Fight Club’ is a personal favourite of mine.

I mean Brad Pitt has his shirt off for

almost the entire movie! What more could you need?

7. HOST A CHOCOLATE FONDUE PARTY.

Come on girlies, who are we kidding?

It’s not spending the evening with a hot man that we look forward to the most on Valentine’s Day. It’s stuffing our faces with a box of Thornton’s finest that makes our night. And just because you’re single, why should this year be any different? Get the girls over, whip out the strawberries, marshmallows and anything else you fancy drowning in chocolate. Don’t forget the wine either!

8. SHAKE YOUR BOOTY IN A DANCE CLASS OR SALSA CLUB.

There’s no better way to lift your mood than dancing around like you just don’t care. Channel your inner Ginger Rodgers and banish the Valentine’s Day blues by shaking your hips in a dance class. You never know, you may learn some serious moves and attract your next beau by showing off your salsa hips in Sally’s on a Saturday night.

However you decide to celebrate this year, make sure you have fun and embrace your single life!

Happy Valenti.... I mean, Happy Singles Day everyone!

XXX

Culchies and the city

Bessie Belle

An Omagh’s girl’s take on life...

After waiting years for a new hip, Granny seemed to enjoy her time as an inpatient so much she decided to have a few more visits, just to get her money’s worth from the NHS. When we start to think she’s on her way back to normal functioning, some other bit of her starts to needs attention. She seems to be doing her best to get round every hospital in the country too and last week she made it all the way to the Royal in Belfast, even making the journey in an ambulance with the nee-naw on. What impressed her most was that it was two weemen in charge of the ambulance. I don’t think there was any real need for the nee-naw, they just wanted to get up the road in time for Coronation Street.

And so, me Ma, and me Da, and meself decided to visit her and lucky enough, the Royal is on the Omagh side of Belfast. There’s nothing scarier for country ones like us than the big city, where there are folk whose people you wouldn’t be sure of, and some people you don’t even know to see. And, of course, you wouldn’t want to end up in the ‘wrong’ area.

We’d a brave idea where we were going and sure we knew the Royal was at the first roundabout as you go in to Belfast, you couldn’t miss it. Daddy had been there before. We were making good time, listening to Uncle Hugo on the way up the road. As we approached the city, I could see in the distance the new big sculpture on the roundabout like a wee see-through golf ball inside a bigger one. I didn’t know if I liked it or not.

Then, spotting a sign: “Royal Victoria,” says me ma, “we need to turn off here.”

“Naw,” says me da, “we stay on this road and it’ll take us straight to the roundabout at the Royal, I’ve been here before.”

Next thing you know, the golf balls disappear and we’re in the middle of six lanes, heading for the M2. Unfortunately, it turned out the last time me Da was at the Royal was the last century.

Well, talk about the ‘balls on the Falls’. Now we were in no man’s

land. None of the three of us had a clue where we were going. I’d only really been to Belfast before on the bus. I chirped up that we should just take the next exit and try to find our way back.

“Naw, naw,” says me da, the knuckles white with gripping the steering wheel, “we couldn’t do that, jays, we might end up on the ‘wrong area.’”

To be honest, I was a bit afraid of that too. I mean it wouldn’t have taken a genius to work out what we were. With the muck on the mudguards and the terrified expression on our faces anyone would have known to look at us we were culchies and we all know culchies are tied to lamp posts and put on the top of bonfires by city folk in the ‘wrong’ parts of Belfast. We daren’t stop for fear of our very lives. So we just kept driving and driving…and driving and driving and none of us spoke because we didn’t know what to say. It was very tense for a very long time until eventually we started seeing signs for the International airport so we headed for that and managed to get out bearings and get back on the M1. We were like a plane making a second approach on the roundabout at the Royal. Thankfully, this time we made it, just two and a half hours after leaving Omagh. And there was Granny, lying up like the Queen herself. “What kept yous?” says she.

Culmore Diner party

The Culmore Diner crew having a well earned ladies night out in the Coach last Saturday night.

NEXT ISSUE...

20

FEBRUARY omaghtoday | 15

U Pp C O M m I Nn G

Ee Nn Tt Ee Rr Tt A I Nn M m Ee Nn Tt . . .

FR r Ii D dA aY y 7T tH h F Ee B bR rU uA aR rY y O Vv Ee Rr 1 8 Ss - A Dd M m . £ 5 . Dd O O Rr Ss O Pp Ee Nn 1 0 Pp M m

DJ dj SHAI shai

£2.50 DRINKS drinks

FR r Ii D dA aY y 14T tH h F Ee B bR rU uA aR rY y O Vv Ee Rr 1 8 Ss - A Dd M m . £ 5 . Dd O O Rr Ss O Pp Ee Nn 1 0 Pp M m

DJ dj SHAI shai

£2.50 DRINKS drinks

S sA aT tU uR rD dA aY y 8T tH h F Ee B bR rU uA aR rY y

O Vv Ee Rr 2 1 Ss - A Dd M m . £ 5 Bb Ee Ff O Rr Ee 1 1 . 3 0 Pp M m , £ 7 A Ff Tt Ee Rr . O Pp Ee Nn 1 0 Pp M m

DJ dj PRINCE prince

DRINKS drinks PROMOS PrOMOs

S sA aT tU uR rD dA aY y 15T tH h F Ee B bR rU uA aR rY y

O Vv Ee Rr 2 1 Ss - A Dd M m . £ 5 Bb Ee Ff O Rr Ee 1 1 . 3 0 Pp M m , £ 7 A Ff Tt Ee Rr . O Pp Ee Nn 1 0 Pp M m

DJ dj SHAI shai

DRINKS drinks PROMOS PrOMOs

Rue & una Vita aRe now taking bookings foR Valentines Day ContaCt Rue on

02882257575

oR una Vita on

02882244440

to ReseRVe a table foR this speCial day

omaghtoday | 16

VISIT OUR BRAND NEW WEBSITE

SATURDAY 8TH FEBRUARY

DJ DELBERT SATURDAY 15TH FEBRUARY

DJ DELBERT

WWW.MAINSTREETOMAGH.COM

EVERY MONDAY

HAPPY MONDAYS

FROM 3PM TO CLOSING EVERY TUESDAY

PUB QUIZ

SATURDAY 8TH FEBRUARY

DJ SHAI

SATURDAY 15TH FEBRUARY

DJ SHAI

FROM 9.30PM FRIDAY 7TH FEBRUARY

THE BIZZ FROM 10.00PM FOLLOWED BY PADDYS DISCO FRIDAY 14TH FEBRUARY

CRACKLIN JACKS FROM 10.00PM FOLLOWED BY PADDYS DISCO

HEN/STAG & PARTY PACKAGES AVAILABLE RUE 028 8225 7575 | UNA VITA 028 8224 4440

omaghtoday | 17

Roscavey P. S. pass on old tradition

Children at Roscavey P. S.,Beragh took a break from their books on Friday, 31st January to prepare for St. Brigid's feast day which falls on 1st February. Parents and grandparents and Parish Priest Fr. S. McGinley took over the roll of teaching and passed on the skills of making St. Brigid's crosses from rushes. Pictured above are the pupils with staff and Fr. McGinley.

Bethlehem Walk raises £2540 at Errigle Keerogue

Gail McKee, Make A Wish Fundraising manager receives a cheque for £2540 from Revd Ian Cruikshank and members of the parishes of Errigle Keerogue, Ballygawley and Killeshill. The money was raised through ‘The Bethlehem Walk’ which took place at Stephen McKeown’s farm on 20th and 21st December. The walk transported visitors back 2,000 years to the village of Bethlehem where they met Roman Soldiers, King Herod, townspeople, shepherds watching their sheep, Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus. The Sunday school sang and various parishioners joined in the narrations and helping out with the event.

Census officers Alan Moore, Jim Patton Shepherds Anne Barrett, Rowena Bailey and Mark Bailey. and Derek McKeown. omaghtoday | 18

Wise men Cindy McKeown, Sarah Stockdale and Annie Stockdale.

omaghtoday | 19

Red carpet treatment for grandparents at Eskra

St. Patrick's P. S., Eskra principal Keira McCallan with pupil Eabha McNamee and grandparents Josie Martin and Kathleen and Granny Mary with Sarah Louise, Saidhbh and Donal Taggart.

Barney McNamee.

Zara McAnespie with grandparents Tommy and B Teresa Hughes McNelis. grandson Cormac.

with Proud granny Mary Agnes Heagney with Callum McGlinchey and Chantelle McCaffrey.

Granda Vinny McRory with Oran and Ellen Shaun McGinley with grandchildren Roisin, Rory and Caitlin Kinsella with proud Bradley.

Alexandra and Ashton Beattie. granda Francie Monaghan.

Below: Eoin and Anna McEvoy with grandma Mary Dorris.

Above: Cadhla McCarroll with her grandmother Phyllis.

omaghtoday | 20

Rudolph run raises over ÂŁ5,000

Kiera McCallan, Principal of St. Patrick's P. S., Eskra, Teresa Corr, on behalf of the Columban Missionaries and Winnie Burns, Eskra Community Association (seated) with cheques for ÂŁ1,850 each from the organisers of the Eskra Rudolph Run. Standing are Bronagh Gormley, second from left, from SSE Airtricity who sponsored the event and event committee members Claire McNamee, Gerry McCaffrey, Teresa Meegan and Bernie McCaffrey.

OMAGH YESTERDAY

Images of Omagh & District from times past...

Memories . . . . . The Hillman Avenger, ramps and barrels of concrete outside the police station, young lads who had lots of hair and are now fifty!. . . . . . pictured at Sixmilecross Cycling Spin passing through Beragh.

Below left: The champion Clanabogan bowlers from 1988 proudly pose with their silverware.

Below: TonyMcGead, Dominic Kirwan, Chris Clarke, Gary Groogan, Shane Moane showing off their trophies after winning in the feis for singing. Chris and Dominic are still singing with bands of their own to this very day. Is that a wig Chris?

A young Andy Gordon and his Mrs and Johnston Bros. Drapers Tom Ballantine The talented St. Brigid's Youth Band, Altamuskin 'Suited 'n booted' for the road in 1988. and his wife.

Ballygawley's got talent - Mary Horisk and her merry men at a Carrickmore boxers at a tournament in the Patrician Hall 35 talent contest many many many years ago. years ago. omaghtoday | 21

With Chloe Kerr

RAINY DAY BLUES Having just spent a weekend in Paris and been reminded of how much black everyone wears, it’s nice to be reminded of some colourful clothing trends for this season!

While 90s fashion has been a big trend this season, makeup trends have taken a step back to the eighties with – gasp bright blue eye shadow being a big hit on the runways. So think disco diva, and those makeup palettes we got back when we were teenagers with crazy colours!

For the brave among you, let your eyes pop with bold blocks of opaque blues across your eyelids, or for just a hint of blue, a navy smoky eye, or a flash of electric blue eyeliner. To let this look really stand out, keep the rest of your makeup to a minimum; nude lip colour, and minimal blusher on the cheeks.

And of course, don’t panic, it doesn’t have to be electric blue, this trend encompasses azure, aqua, sapphire and sky blue too…so whatever shade works for your skin colour - and your bravery levels!

In a bit of a change of topic, the rain is terrible at the moment so I thought I’d offer a few tips for how to stop your hair being ruined by the endless wet.

Not only does the rain make us feel miserable, it often makes us look miserable as well. The best option, if your hair is long enough, is a slick up-do. If it’s loosely put up, it will get frizzier the wetter it gets, whereas with a slick up do (like a tight high pony tail) it will last much longer, and survive better. Hold your ‘do in place with some hair spray or hair oil which will also act as a kind of waterproof barrier.

If you want to wear your hair down, work with what you have. Don’t straighten your curly hair, the damp atmosphere will return it to its natural state in no time, so don’t waste your time trying to style it.

Think about wearing a hat or even better a hood. A hood will cover your head and protect the style, while the hat creates humidity. omaghtoday | 22

Patricia Gordon, NI Director of MS and Peter Eikin, Secretary of MS NI receive a cheque for £5,000 from Joe Doran, Chairman of the MS Omagh Branch, Hazel Millar, Secretary and LYnette Beattie, Vice Chair. The money was raised through various events. Thanks go to the volunteers for their hard work and to the local community for their generosity in supporting MS Research.

Hillview Productions concert launch

Dessie McLaughlin, Hillview Productions with singing artists Jacqui Bannon and Joe Moore at the launch of a series of concerts in the Silverbirch Hotel last Thursday night. Also appearing on the show were Billy McFarland, Country Features, Ian Coalter and Kenneth Neely. Next local concert will be on Wednesday, 26th February in the Mayfly Inn, Kesh.

Compere Ian Coalter with Florence Given and Robbie Pearson of the Country Features.

Trumpet player and singer Billy McFarland on stage at the Hillview promotions concert launch.

Omagh Today Pinboard Welcome to the Omagh Today pinboard! Whether you’re a business owner or a local shopper you’ll find plenty of offers here over the coming weeks to tickle your fancy – advertise your company’s discount offer or product promotion for just £25 per issue with no minimum sign-up period, or simply keep your eye out for great offers from the businesses and shops you regularly visit, cut out the coupon and present in store to save £££s! Email ads@omaghtoday for more information.

ADVERTISE HERE FOR ONLY £25 AND SEE YOUR BUSINESS GROW. Call Brendan on 07884313385 or Pat on 07712840985 or email ads@omaghtoday.com

omaghtoday | 23

Heart-shaped hot water bottle, Dunnes.

Valentine’s gift trug, M&S.

Be mine…?

Ok, ok; it’s cheesy and commercialized and makes everybody except the sickeningly lovedup want to boke, but Valentine’s Day is still a great excuse to twist that special somebody’s arm into spoiling you rotten! And just in case he’s stuck for ideas…you can thank us later ladies!

Estee Lauder Modern Muse, available at Boots.

Chocolates, Hotel Chocolat.

Heart chocolate moulds, find similar at White’s.

Vintage style ‘love’ hanging sign, dotcomgiftshop.

Tea towel, Marks and Spencer.

Pandora heart charm, limited edition for the British Heart Foundation, available at Argento.

Vive la France!

Pampering perfection!

The January blues are hopefully receding by now, but if you’re needing a hand to see them on their way – or indeed, if you fancy treating yourself or a loved one to some Valentine’s Day pampering, then an exciting new local collaboration has just the thing! Lavender Day Spa in Ballygawley and Omagh’s Silverbirch Hotel have teamed up to offer some very fabulous ‘Spa & Stay’ packages that include indulgent body treatments and use of the Hydrotherapy Suite at the spa, followed by a VIP arrival at your hotel and options including breakfast and evening meal – a perfect getaway made for couples or even girlfriends! Ring 028 8556 7898 for further details or check out Lavender Spa on Facebook. omaghtoday | 24

Spring is about to…well, spring – and for fashionistas that means a very big reason to get excited as the new SS14 collections flood into stores to tempt us away from our winter woolies! Classic Urbanwear recently took delivery of the latest offerings from French Connection and we instantly fell in lust with this stunning all-over-sequin mini dress!

The subtle animal print and flashes of neon mean it’s both pretty and edgy, and with the ¾ sleeve it will take you anywhere from a spring wedding to a hot summer night on the tiles…

Mummy Diaries Daddies don’t change their spots

Shave and wax in the Hogs raises £773.54 for the Alzheimer's Society Shane Whelan has his leg waxed by Joanne Donnelly as MC DJ2J’s looks on.

Joe McCrory shaves Nicola Mullin's head at a charity shave and wax night the Hogs head bar Omagh on Friday night. The event raised £773.54

I WAS reading earlier this week that the actor Hugh Grant has had a third child – a ‘secret love child’ I might add - with some Swedish TV producer.

I sort of had to do a double take and get my fingers out to do some counting. I knew Hugh Grant had another ‘secret love child’ a while back with an ‘actress’ twenty years his junior; but where did these other two sprogs come from? Does he even have a girlfriend??

It turns out that our lovable, quintessentially English fop Hugh went on to have a second child with Tinglan Hong, a woman described as his lover but with whom, he is quick to stress, he is not in a relationship. While he was in the middle of buying her a £1.2 million luxury home in Fulham in which to bring up his firstborn, a daughter, he was also having it away with this Swedish bird, and knocked them both up at the same time. I don’t know about ‘secret love children’. Maybe ‘secret lust children’? Or ‘secret casual shag children’? Ugh. Reflecting on fatherhood on the Ellen DeGeneres Show, Hugh remarked that becoming a dad had changed his life. He said: “Everyone was right all these years, saying: ‘Hugh, why don’t you have some children? It changes your life.’ Now that I have a child, it is life-changing. I recommend it. Get some.”

Indeed it seems that having a child is very de rigeur for celebrity males of a certain age these days – and does wonders for one’s global profile. Look at Simon Cowell. He knocked up his friend’s wife which unsurprisingly spelled curtains for their marriage, has spent the last nine months walking up and down the beach in Barbados and telling the whole world how he’s not going to be in the room when the baby is born and how he’ll employ somebody to change nappies so he doesn’t have to – and still the whole world is on tenterhooks waiting for the baby to be born. Secretly, we’re all waiting for the arrival of the one person that with be able to melt the tough Cowell exterior, the one person he can’t control with money and power. Secretly, like Hugh Grant’s friends, we think fatherhood will change these men. But will it?

I suspect not. Fifty plus years of throwing money at every problem that crossed their paths, and of having their cake and eating it – whether it’s their best mate’s wife or a high class hooker – has surely left these ageing playboys pretty set in their ways and I don’t think even the sweetest newborn will cause much more than a ripple on the surface of their very pampered ponds.

We’ve all been there ladies; you get two weeks of paternity leave when they wait on you hand and foot and can’t get enough of changing bums and lazing around with the baby on their bare chest like something out of an Athena poster – but even the most doting of daddies usually reverts to type sooner or later when the pull of the football or the Xbox or a full night’s sleep gets too much. Simon has since conceded that he will be in the room for the birth of his son, who he plans to name – you’ve guessed it – Simon. But somehow I can’t see Cowell giving up his beauty sleep, or swapping his sunlounger in Barbados for building sandcastles in the shade, or tolerating chocolatey fingerprints on his dazzlingly white shirts (though the bare chest thing won’t be a problem, since he never seems to button them up!). Babies are pretty egotistical creatures; they demand all your attention and require their needs to be met immediately – and there ain’t room for two of those big egos in any relationship.

Something tells me that like Hugh’s babymamas, Lauren Silverman will be left holding the infant sooner or later.

She’ll be holding it in a mansion, and wiping its wee pooey bum with Hermés scarves maybe, but still. omaghtoday | 25

Work hard and keep smiling: Omagh nonagenarian’s secret to a long and happy life

E

ARLY starts, long hours, juggling childcare with work responsibilities; sounds familiar to most modern day working mums – but when Mrs Sarah McCracken was doing it 60-odd years ago there were local halls.” lot of them were really lovely children and no childminders, no CBeebies and no By this time Sarah had left school and I know a lot of local families kept in touch fancy household gadgets to make life that begun work as a secretary, a job she with them for years after the war ended.” bit easier. really enjoyed and was very good at – she After the end of the war, David and Sarah Mrs McCracken recently celebrated her was a competent typist and highly skilled decided to get married and a date was 90th birthday and family and friends at taking shorthand. Even years later, fixed for July 1946 – but the course of travelled from far and wide to celebrate she would delight her children by using true love never did run smooth! Shortly this wonderful milestone with a very her shorthand to take down the lyrics of before the wedding the bride-to-be and special lady who’s still able to keep her their favourite songs from the radio. Her her mother travelled to Bundoran for a offspring in line even though they’re long secretarial skills were learned at Omagh few days, where Sarah received the news since grown up!

Technical School, and Sarah recalls her that her intended had suffered an injury Born in 1924 into a farming family at first day there for a very distinct reason: to his back on the farm, and was laid up Mullaghmore, Seskinore, in hospital in plaster from Sarah Elizabeth Barker, as neck to navel, causing their she was then, was educated wedding to be postponed at Tullyrush Primary until November that year.

School. It was here that Once married, Sarah left she first laid eyes on David her secretarial job to McCracken, the man who help her husband on the would become her husband farm, and in due course – and there was certainly the couple were blessed something he liked about with six children, namely going to school too, Margaret, Roy, Olive, Coral, because he never missed a David and Alan. As if that day in nine years! That was wasn’t enough to keep her a rare achievement for any busy, Sarah became an avid child in a rural school when poultry-keeper, rearing there were farm chores to hens and turkeys and be attended to, and even selling them to boost the moreso because David was household income. an only child whose mother “My own mother kept died when he was 13; he birds as well – one of my received a silver watch to childhood memories is of mark the achievement. her crying after a fox took The Young Farmers’ Club Birthday girl Sarah McCracken with her children Margaret, Roy, Olive, a whole flock of goslings formed a focal point for Coral, David and Alan. she had been raising for many young people in the that coming Christmas. area at that time, and David and Sarah were “My first day was the day that World War They were just about to get their second no different – they both participated in the Two broke out!” she says. “I remember feathers and she came out to find them various activities, including a production everyone talking about the evacuees all dead – that was a real disappointment of the three-act comedy ‘Professor Tim’, coming down from Belfast and the teacher for her. I really enjoyed it although it was with Sarah playing Peggy Scally to David’s asked me to help get the place ready. hard work; I would have to lift the big bags Hugh O’Cahan.

When they arrived they all had their bags of meal up into the hoppers and bring “Of course there weren’t as many cars in and they were queued down the corridors. buckets of water back from the well twice those days,” Sarah explains, “so travel Some of them were from the poorest parts a day, and it was half a mile away. When was very restricted unless you could get of Belfast which were really just like slums we got a well bored here on the farm a lift with somebody, and we didn’t go too at that time, they hadn’t seen anything it revolutionized the whole thing! The far – but we performed the play in all the until they came out to the country. But a girls would have helped me out with the

omaghtoday | 26

younger ones but if there was nobody here I used to tie the playpen to the legs of the big dining table and put the wee ones in there where they would be safe for five minutes if I had to go and feed the hens or lift eggs. And I used to strap them into the

pram and push them half a mile down the road to see to the hens as well. One year, I hatched 500 turkeys and reared them for Christmas, and I didn’t lose a single one.”

In later years, once her children had grown up, Sarah had more time for hobbies of

her own and she discovered a love of painting. Although she only took classes for a short period of time, she proved to be a natural painter and the walls of her home are adorned with many of her original artworks, featuring stunning life portraits and landscapes in oils. “I won a prize at Omagh Show one year,” she smiles modestly.

Today, Mrs McCracken is grandmother to 13 and great-granny to five, and was delighted when a large number of these and other family members, including eldest daughter Margaret, who now lives on the Isle of Wight, came together to help her celebrate her 90th birthday at Seskinore Presbyterian Church Hall.

So, what’s her secret for a long life?

“Well I never drank and never smoked,” she says. “Rise early, plenty of hard work, go to your church and most importantly, keep smiling, even when you don’t feel like it!”

omaghtoday | 27

Social life in need of a boost?

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

By Claire

GRAINNE DUFFY

MUST SEE!!

STRULE ARTS CENTRE, FEBRUARY 14, 8PM, £13/£10 Monaghan-born Grainne Duffy has performed all over the world, opening for artists like Jools Holland and even playing at iconic music events such as Glastonbury. Last year, Grainne released her album 'Test of Time' to a wonderful reception worldwide. Still pioneering her first love, the blues, she has also found a voice in writing and playing in styles ranging from pop, soul and rock. With her razor-sharp looks and ‘bad girl’ sound, Grainne’s live shows are hugely dynamic and a real treat for live music fans – the emotion conveyed by her powerful blues voice makes for an unforgettable experience and the intimate cabaret setting of the auditorium at Strule is the ideal venue for this very special gig. Music fans can also avail of a very special offer currently available at Strule – buy a ticket for Grainne Duffy and Eddi Reader (05 April) for only £25.00 (offer ends 14 February). Contact the Box Office on 028 8224 7831.

VICTORIA GEELAN ALBUM LAUNCH

BOGAN'S, FEBRUARY 16, 8.30PM

OMAGH-born jazz and blues singer Victoria Geelan will take to the stage in Bogan’s on February 16 for the much-anticipated official launch of her debut album, ‘Unfit the Picture’. Victoria has been working as a full-time musician for several years now and has cemented her position as one of the foremost solo jazz artists in Northern Ireland. The album is inspired by many of the experiences Victoria has had in her life, from growing up different to her peers, to travelling in South America – and indeed the album features four original tracks and four covers with a mixture of English, French and Spanish songs, all of which have personal significance to Victoria for one reason or another. Doors open 8.30pm

GLASS PAINTING WORKSHOP

AN CREAGAN, FEBRUARY 8, 11AM-4PM, £30 Glass artist Louise McLean offers the opportunity to explore and experiment with a range of techniques and recipes, working with traditional glass painting materials in a variety of ways. Glass painting is a contemporary art which has been derived from the age old art of stained glass painting. Lunch is included. omaghtoday | 28

{WHAT’S ON?} Your at-a-glance guide to upcoming events

7th February Black and White ‘Reveal Night’, Healy Park. Who’s going to be in the big bouts on February 15? Opponents revealed in the clubrooms at 7.30pm.

8th February The Kids Actifit Challenge in aid of Team Noel for London Marathon 2014, Campsie Playing Fields, 11am, £2.50 per child.

8th February Village Inn, Killyclogher, music by Joe Moore and The Oakridge Band 10th February Cloughfin Old School Hall, Treanor School of Irish Dancing. 6.30 to 8.30pm. £4 per child. 07891969909.

13th February Ladies Night and Fashion show in aid of Denamona Preschool, Silverbirch Hotel, Omagh.

15th February Beragh Red Knights Pavillion Annual Dinner Dance.

15th February Omagh Golf Club, Charity dance with music by the fabulous Joe Moore.

15th February Valentine’s Mini Market, The Buttermarket, Fivemiletown. Crafts, food and fashion, 10.30am to 5pm.

15th February Valentine’s Blind Date, Eddies Bar, Greencastle, 8pm. Fundraiser for Green Elves Playgroup.

16th February Omagh Wheelers Valentine’s run leisure cycle. 30 and 50 mile routes available, departs Youth Sport at 9.30am 16th February Omagh Wheelers Reliability Trial 2014 - 50 or 70 miles. Departs Youth Sport at 9am.

19th February Carmen Cycle Club, registration night to enter the cycle. Bring £20 with you. 7pm to 9pm.

19th February Great Northern Hotel, Bundoran: Gareth Pritchard, Collin Raye. Billy Yates and Roly Daniels 20th February The Millenium Forum: Gareth Pritchard, Collin Raye. Billy Yates and Roly Daniels 22nd February CBS Omagh 10k/5k run/walk, 11am.

Proceeds go to Care for Cancer and Phillippines Typhoon Haiyan Appeal.

23rd February Our Lady of Lourdes P.S. Greencastle Cycle. 35 mile and 15 mile cycle routes.

Registration at 10am with take off at 11am. £10.

23rd February Actifit Annual Assault Course Bootcamp Madness In aid of PCUK @ 1pm, Gortin Glens Forest Park.

ITS ALL HAPPENING AT THE STRULE! Music, drama, comedy and workshops - Strule Arts Centre has it all this February. Mike Denver and Guests will be headlining musical performances on the 19 February, alongside the Ceolchorim Traidisiúnata on on Thursday 20 February. The Award winning Abba Tribute Band 'Revival' with The James Peake Experience will have everyone dancing in the isles - don't miss it on the 18 February.

we show our appreciation to the talented Northern Irish Poet Seamus Heaney with 'Poetry Exposure'. Come along and here one of the most popular and revered poems being read by some well known local individuals. The evening will also include traditional music. An informal relaxed evening, for people new to poetry and anyone who simply appreciates Seamus Heaney and his ability to bring poems to life.

We are also delighted to welcome the latest Stage Fright Theatre Company (Omagh) production Nightmare by Norman Robbins, on Friday 21 and Saturday 22 February. Invalid, Marion Bishop, a wealthy, elderly novelist is dying. Her imminent death is eagerly awaited by several people after her money. Deceit, suspicion, blackmail and incriminations are subtly woven into a web of crime. Come along for a night of intrigue and see if you can guess whodunnit - a great night in store!

It’s not too late to review your new year’s resolutions and learn that new skill you’ve been promising for a while now.

Strule Arts Centre has a wide range of workshops that will inspire you to get creative and artistic. On the 19th February, Sharyn Kelly will help you to design and create decorative Mosaic pots for the garden for your Spring bulbs. Also for the children we have a new muscial workshop - Stage Starz Juniors with Orlagh Simmonds and Stuart Gibson on Thursdays for 6 weeks. Join Orlagh and Stuart to learn new skills in musical drama and dance.

Also this February and for one night only

UPCOMING EVENTS PERFORMANCES Nathan Carter Thursday 6 February @ 8.00pm £25.00

6 Feb - 20 Feb 2014

A Bit on The Side - Conal Gallen Friday 7 and Saturday 8 February 8.00pm £20.00

Shrek Saturday 22 February @ 11.30am @ £3.00 family Ticket 1 adult and 3 Children £10.00

A Jazz Supper Thursday 13 February @ 8.00pm £14.00

Poetry Exposure Thursday 27 February @ 8.00pm Tickets FREE

Grainne Duffy and Her Band Friday 14 February @ 8.00pm £13.00/Con £10.00

GALLERY Tyrone Open submission Exhibition Saturday 25 January - Saturday 01 March @ 10.00am - 5.30pm

The American Wrestling Roadshow Saturday 15 February @ 8.00pm £10.00 Abba Revival with The James Peake Experience Tuesday 18 February @ 8.00pm £19.50 Mike Denver and Guests Wednesday 19 February @ 8.00pm £20 Ceolchorim Traidisiúuta Thursday 20 February @ 8.00pm £7.00 Nightmare Friday 21 and Saturday 22 February @ 8.00pm £9.00 / Con £7.00

WORKSHOPS Photography with Katrina Taggart Friday 07 - 28 February ( 4 weeks) @ 10.00am - 12pm £45.00 Mosaics with Sharyn Kelly Wednesdays 19 February - 12 March @ 7.00pm - pm £45.00 Stage Starz Juniors with Orlagh Simmonds and Stuart Gibson Thursday 27 February - 3 April ( 6 weeks ) @ 4.30pm - 6.30pm £50.00 T-Shirt Printing with Raymond Henshaw Saturday 22 Febraury @ 10.00am - 4.00pm £40.00

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

omaghtoday | 29

Latest Release

PHILOMENA BEGLEY

She's the Queen of the Silver Dollar - indeed many say she is the Queen of Country - but one thing is for sure she's a proud Tyrone woman, a mother and grandmother and one of the best entertainers around...she is of course Philomena Begley.

Philly, now 50 plus years on the road and a year or so after celebrating a milestone birthday, is still one of the finest this country has produced. Currently settling for less of the full time touring, for the time being at least, Philomena has in recent weeks shared the stage with the likes of Dominic Kirwan and Nathan Carter but will shortly link up with another of the many leading men in her life - the legendary Ray Lynam. ‘Together Again’ will be the tag line for the forthcoming concert tour and this duo will delight audiences throughout the country.

Philly and Ray recorded a string of hits and have toured extensively in the past thirty years, but this tour will be extra special with the Pomeroy lady’s son Aidan Quinn and the new Ramblin’ Men taking to the roads again.

Speaking last week, Philly said she was looking forward to her reunion with Ray: "We have been rehearsing away, but sure when you get to our age you could still forget the words, its a nice wee tour and me and Ray get on the best, we have some great times on the road and he's a real gentleman. I am delighted that Aidan’s with us too, it makes the show for me.

He was part of the 50th anniversary tour and went down well he's a great performer in his own right, so it should be good!"

Philomena will be joining Dominic Kirwan on several more dates this spring as well as fit in this tour and other appearances. The local woman has never lost her earthy charm, something she’s had from the early days and which has helped her win round many an audience – and even the legendary Billie Jo Spears, as she explains: "She was coming here to promote ‘Blanket on the Ground’ but sure me and the boys had it already recorded and released, and it was doing huge business for us. We met and the first thing she said was: "so you’re the **** that’s doing my song!" We laughed about it and became firm friends right up until her death."

Philly was friends with all the big Nashville names, she was a star of all the big festivals, toured the world and every hall in Ireland but as son Aidan put it: "she wasn't Philomena Begley when we were growing up, she was mammy, she was always there doing washing, the dishes, ironing and making the breakfast."

It’s a testament to the Pomeroy woman that she is still hugely popular but more than that she can still belt out a great song or two; age, she says is just a number, although unfortunately as she quips, “the number just keeps getting bigger!" omaghtoday | 30

John McNicholl is back to his very best and the dancing crowds all over Ireland and the UK are lapping it up. The Derry man, who had a stuttering start a few years ago, has certainly found a new following and the quality of his performances and his wide ranging repertoire has brought him to a whole new audience.

Landing on the mat this week was John’s latest release, ‘Dig a Little Deeper in the Well", taken from his forthcoming new album.

Arranged and produced by Jonathan Owens and recorded at the Spout studios in Granard, the new single is working its way up the various country radio charts with plenty of airplay.

John has just returned from a weekend in the UK, a mix of dances and concerts but has a busy local schedule over the next couple of months.

New Boy While some country acts explode onto the scene out of nowhere, others have more of a slow and stead approach to success - and there's a man though who has taken his time, worked on his own, worked with his mother, done the wedding circuit, recorded and dueted and just last year took his new band on the road. Paul Kelly is the man in question and after doing the hard yards he is certainly enjoying a great success now in his own right.

His first recording ‘So In Love’ propelled the Donegal man up the charts and once again that man Jonathan Owens in Granard helped make the magic happen. Next came a link up with Georgette Jones, a neighbour of Paul’s asked if she would sing a duet with this new boy! After hearing ‘Lost Love’ she had no problem and again it was a hit.

So after all that and a new album launched in Donegal it was quite apt that his home county would play host to the launch of his new five piece band. That was in October last year and with a bulging diary for 2014 things are looking good. A new single ‘The Hangover’, penned by Kelly and Andy Cox is getting plenty of airplay too and the song remains a chart topper.

One thing’s for sure that the name Paul Kelly is not just around for a wee while and its not just us saying that - Paul was named as the 'Best Debut Performance of the Year' at the Sunday World Awards last week. You can find out more on Paul at www.paulkellymusic.com

New Girl Larissa Gargan from Navan is a singer who you will be hearing a lot more about in the coming weeks and months. An extremely talented female artist with a unique, powerful husky voice that makes her stand out from the crowd, Larissa had been singing on the pub scene for many years but her passion lies in country music. She has supported international country artists such as Mary Duff and Dee Reilly in Ireland and the United Kingdom.

The County Meath girl says that Mary Duff, Billie Jo Spears and our own Queen of country Philomena Begley have been the biggest influences on her career; it comes as no surprise then that Larissa has received rave reviews from numerous guest spots. Over the past month or so Larissa has been preparing to make her big debut onto the country scene with a five piece band. It's all started with her recording several singles due for release over the coming months. Larissa will follow that up with a launch night on March 10 in Fairways Hotel, Dundalk, with some big guest appearances.

Larissa has already recorded ‘Let Her Rip’ and what a recording it is! The video’s a bit of tongue in cheek too but it is her vocals, the band’s drive and a unique sound that makes this young lady one of the best around… could there be a new queen of country on the way? You heard it here first!

ONE-TO-ONE PERSONAL TRAINING

NUTRITION SUPPLEMENTS

BODY TRANSFORMATIONS (WEIGHT LOSS)

BODYBUILDING TRAINING AND SHOW PREP

FIGHTING FIT TRANSFORMATIONS

FITNESS CLASSES OPEN MALE AND FEMALE

14 Ashfield Terrace, Omagh Tel. 07917 380340

GUARANTEED WEIGHT LOSS AT REPS GYM

ONCE viewed as scary torture chambers for only the fittest and most expert of exercisers, modern gyms are more user-friendly and more accessible than ever, with many recruiting the help of specialists in a range of areas, from fitness to body building to weight loss to nutrition, to help people get the most out of their gym experience, no matter what their goals.

At REPS Gym in Omagh, clients can now avail of the services of personal trainer and weight loss expert Jay Wylie, who specializes in ‘body transformations’ – from the inside out!

Jay has more than 15 years’ experience working as a personal trainer and in 2013 alone he helped his clients lose an incredible 114 stone and 1068 inches from their body measurements. He takes a ‘whole body’ approach to weight loss and fitness that begins with lifestyle and nutrition, and works closely with each client to offer them a completely tailored plan for eating and exercise that will help break bad habits and increase energy levels, maximizing results from their workouts – no fads, no gimmicks, just sensible, guaranteed weight loss.

The benefits of this cannot be overstated, as Jay explains: “One client I had recently was a local man named Seamus. He was 47, overweight, and on medication for high cholesterol and blood pressure. He weighed over 17 stone and had a waist measurement of 43 inches. He undertook a ten-week body transformation programme with me and by the end of that period he had reduced his weight by over 30lbs, and reduced his waist measurement to 34 inches. By far the best result was that he was able to reduce his cholesterol medication and come off his blood pressure medication completely – he literally added years to his life.”

Jay’s services are available to anyone, irrespective of age, gender, fitness level or the amount of weight they want to lose. All that’s required is a real commitment to stick to the programme and you can watch those unwanted pounds melt away.

Weight loss is just one speciality at REPS; the gym also offers one-to-one personal training, ‘fighting fit’ transformations, bodybuilding and show preparation, and a full range of nutritional supplements plus all the expert advice you need to get the best results. There are also some great group classes including Tabata Blast, Bums ‘n’ Tums (women only), Core, Boxing and Muai Thai Boxing, where you can have great fun and enjoy the motivational aspects of exercising in a group whilst still reaping all the benefits of an all-over workout.

For further information on prices and packages available, contact Jay on 07917 380340.

omaghtoday | 31

Laura Lee celebrates her 30th

Left: Birthday girl Laura Lee Mulligan with parents Frank and Mary at her 30th in the Coach Inn last Saturday night and above with family members.

Doris wins £500 Lucky Doris O'Brien, Ashfield Gardens, Fintona receives a cheque for £500 from Garvan Hegarty, SuperValu, Fintona. Doris was one of the Northern Ireland SuperValu customers who shared in a £5,000 prizefund for their loyal customers. This will surely kickstart 2014 for the SuperValu customers. omaghtoday | 32

WIN!! WIN!! WIN!!

Thanks to the lovely folks at LCM Promos we have four pairs of tickets to the International Voices of Country Music Tour, featuring Gareth Pritchard. There are two pairs for February 19 in Bundoran and two for February 20 in Derry (accommodation not included). To be in with a chance of winning simply complete the attached coupon - don’t forget to specify which night you would prefer – and return it to Omagh Today, 79 Moylagh Road, Beragh, BT790UN on or before February 12. Winners will be notified by phone.

Name: Address:

Tel No: Which night?

Bridin and Kellie's Fatloss January

Bridin Mullan and Kellie Woodhead who organised a 'January Fatloss Challenge' and to celebrate a successful event they held a celebration party to raise further funds for Care for Cancer in the Hogs on Saturday night.

ACROSS 1 Book published every year (6) 4 Feudal retainer (6) 8 Zest, relish (5) 9 Mexican liquor (7) 10 English cheese (7) 11 Fatuous (5) 12 Make a lot of trouble (5,4) 17 Sum up (5) 19 Russian tea-urn (7) 21 Unfavourable (7) 22 Scandinavian (5) 23 Scarcely (6) 24 Charming to look at (6)

DOWN 1 Summer month (6) 2 More unpleasant (7) 3 On high (5) 5 Procure (7) 6 Major Hindu deity (5) 7 Made of money (6) 9 Southern US state (9) 13 Endanger (7) 14 Young hare (7) 15 Bather (anag.) (6) 16 Avaricious (6) 18 Lid (5) 20 Person under age (5) omaghtoday | 33

OMAGH-BORN

time, but my mum encouraged me to give it a try anyway, and I got an interview. I actually didn’t even realize that the course I had applied for was all leather work until the interview – but I was lucky enough to be offered a place, and I ended up really loving it!”

Lindsey’s course was run by Cordwainers within the London College of Fashion – Cordwainers being the place where many famous shoemakers including Patrick Cox and Jimmy Choo himself learned their craft.

She quickly discovered a real passion and talent for working with leather, and after mastering the principal leather-working skills, she progressed to find her own favourite technique, which involves using a special type of leather that can be soaked and then moulded by hand into all sorts of organic forms.

“In my final year at uni I realised that this was probably the last time in my life that I’d be able to really indulge my own creative whims without a client providing me with a brief,” she smiles, “so I felt that I really needed to push myself and explore the boundaries a bit. I’ve always loved anything that’s a bit different from the norm and working with the vegeta leather allows me to do things that are different from what you might expect. When I say I design accessories people automatically think handbags and shoes, but I believe anything can be an accessory if you wear it on your body to accentuate an outfit – so my autumn winter collection last year included a mask and a collar as well as bags and belts.”

Certainly, nobody could accuse Lindsey’s designs of being boring; her most recent collection is entitled ‘Skin Deep’ and draws on themes of the human body and of restriction that are reminiscent of previous collections by the likes of John Galliano and Alexander McQueen. The work is stunning; smooth, moulded leather contrasts with heavily textured stitching and intricate braids, juxtaposed against breathtaking etched floral leather linings – and it’s attracted some interest from the international fashion press, including the prestigious US-based W Magazine.

Like any recent graduate, Lindsey was worried about finding work after completing her degree, but her talents didn’t go unnoticed on that front either and she’s already amassed a number of international clients whilst developing her next personal collection, inspired by insects – although everything has had to go on the back burner recently after she had to undergo spinal surgery.

She explains: “When I first graduated

ACCESSORIES DESIGNER SCORES JOB AT

W

HEN it comes to fantasy careers for girls, a job at Jimmy Choo has to be right up there along with fairy princess – and it’s a dream that’s about to come true for talented young Omagh designer, Lindsey Tait.

Having graduated from the London College of Fashion last year, Lindsey is already making a name for herself in the city, where she now lives and works full time, and her talents have landed her a position at the headquarters of possibly the most famous shoe and accessory designers on the planet!

A former pupil of Omagh Academy, Lindsey was always passionate about art, but unsure about her career path, and so she enrolled on a foundation course at the North West Regional College. Here, she had the opportunity to dabble in both clothing and jewellery design, and while she enjoyed aspects of both disciplines, neither felt like the perfect ‘fit’.

“I found myself wondering if there was something in between, and that’s when I discovered accessory design, and I found a course at the London College of Fashion.

It’s notoriously difficult to get into and my tutors basically said I was wasting my

omaghtoday | 34

I was panicking that I needed to get a job, but all the jobs that were advertised required you to have five years’ experience!

So I figured the only thing to do was send my CV to as many places as possible and see what happened. In the meantime I was pitching for freelance jobs online, and I got a few clients like that, and then I started to get work through word of mouth recommendations, which is brilliant. At the start of November, completely out of the blue, I got an email from one of the designers at Jimmy Choo explaining that she was looking for an assistant and that my CV had been passed to her, and she asked me to come in for an interview.

When I got to the interview it turned out that the CV she had was really old – I’ve no idea how she got it – but she hadn’t even seen my recent collection! I couldn’t believe it when she offered me the place, but they needed somebody to start right away and I knew I was scheduled to go in for surgery on my back and would be in a brace for six weeks. Thankfully, she was really nice about it and said she really wanted me to come and work for Jimmy Choo, and that they could wait until May for me to start.”

“MY MUM HAS BEEN SAYING SINCE I WAS WEE THAT I WAS A CITY GIRL, AND I THINK SHE’S RIGHT – I DO LOVE LIVING THERE!” Lindsey is currently back home recuperating from her surgery, but is looking forward to returning her Shepherd’s Bush home shortly. “My mum has been saying since I was wee that I was a city girl, and I think she’s right – I do love living there!”

She’s also in the running for a prestigious ‘Young Vision’ award from fashion magazine MUUSE, in association with Italian Vogue; her work caught the attention of organisers, who asked if she would like to enter, and the competition is now in the public voting phase. Lindsey needs your votes to secure her place in the top 50 young designers, after which point her work will be judged by industry experts. If she wins, MUUSE will foot the bill for the launch of a capsule collection including production and marketing, with the potential to put this talented young woman in front of some of fashions biggest players.

To vote, visit http://vogue.muuse. com/#!vote/47-lindsey-tait.

For more information visit www. lindseytaitdesign.com or find her on Facebook.

PANCAKES

INGREDIENTS 2 eggs 2ozs margarine 2 tablespoons of sugar 10 heaped tablespoons of self-raising flour plus one tablespoon of baking powder Milk Pinch of salt We are well into the new year now and the resolutions are well in place - if you have been stronger than me and kept them up that is! I think I lasted 3 days, it’s very difficult to keep on track especially with all the cookery shows, bakery shows etc. on television, in magazines and newspapers so I have decided let’s eat some sweet food and balance that with the healthy options. I got a very old recipe book given to me during the week, I am not sure of the age but it included recipes from local people and had advertisements throughout from places like the Carlton Bakery, 36 Market St the telephone number being 2729; groceries at Anderson brothers 36 Hospital Road, McGales Home bakery on John Street and Bridge Street,The Reform Stores, Crescent Dairies Campsie, Charleton and Sons Ltd Derry Road , The Old Shop, Todd’s Finest Tea and Bloomfields, to name but a few. It seemed amazing the amount of shops in the town selling everything from tea bags to tractors.

The book itself has recipes from jams to dinners to some fine pastry recipes, as I have only received the book I will try out and feature some of the recipes, every recipe has a name attached so perhaps some of our readers might remember the very people who supplied the information.

Since starting this column it has amazed me the number of people with an interest in bakery but also the number of people who work tirelessly at home baking for friends and family, the amount of talent across the district is amazing. In the next few editions I will be speaking to some of those home industry bakers, I have a number of people lined up, but if you would like to be included please get in touch with us at Omagh Today - we would be delighted to include you.

OK - Febuary it is and Valentines day is within earshot of us, but for me the big one is the good old pancake! It’s the first big bakery day of the year and I remember Jackie Kearns cooking for hours on the hotplate that particular day every year, so we will share with you a recipe for pancakes.

Tuesday the 4th March is Pancake Tuesday also known as Shrove Tuesday.

Pancakes This recipe I tried was sent in by Mrs A.J Elliott 10 Mc Clay Park Omagh, it turned out a lovely rich pancake - very tasty indeed.

Newtownstewart Drama Festival turns 21 A DRAMATIC week is planned for the 21st birthday of Newtownstewart Drama Festival, with nine nights of top quality drama coming to the stage. The ‘friendly festival’ will once again return to the intimate surroundings of St Eugene`s Hall from Thursday, February 20th to Saturday, March 1.

The Festival will again join forces with renowned local restaurant Ten Square to bring you the best value food and entertainment for a great evening out, with a special pre show meal deal at a cost of just £14.95. Patrons will receive a beautiful main course, a glass of wine and a ticket to the show. Booking for this spectacular offer is advisable and Ten Square can be contacted direct on 028 8166 1900.

Turning to the plays themselves and Rasper Players from Co. Wexford will get things underway on the opening night, Thursday 20th February, with their production of Peter Hall’s stunning stage version of George Orwell’s classic novel ‘Animal Farm’, a satire on

Now Mrs Elliott’s method, which I followed, is this: Heat a good, strongbased frying pan until moderately hot but not smoking.

Melt the margarine in a saucepan.

Beat the eggs and sugar, sieve in the flour, salt and baking powder and beat all together.

Add melted margarine and sufficient milk to make a smooth creamy batter.

Grease pan for 1st batch only I used an ice cream scoop to drop the batter, this gives you consistency with size, you can also add fruit to your pancakes, apples diced up, fruit juice to add flavours in fact anything at all to enhance the flavour - make so many plain, then experiment. My picture shows plain and apple pancakes.

Send us your pictures of this favourite tea time treat!

world politics that explores communism, capitalism, socialism and ultimately totalitarianism.

Friday night will see Take 5 Drama Group from Co. Cork with their funny and touching production of ‘Little Gem’ by Elaine Murphy. Saturday night sees confined winners from last year Glenamaddy Players from Co. Galway take to the stage with their performance of ‘Agnes of God’ by John Pielmeier. This play tells the story of a young nun accused of the manslaughter of her newborn child. A psychiatrist is chosen by the court to determine whether she is fit to plead.

Bradan Players from Co. Dublin return on Sunday 23rd February with ‘Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?’ by Edward Albee, while Monday night will see the return of Tyrone’s Pomeroy Players with their production of ‘Portia Coughlan’ by Marina Carr.

Ballyshannon Drama Group tread the boards on Tuesday night with their take on Neil Simon’s ‘The Gingerbread Lady’ which centres on Evy Meara, a cabaret singer and alcoholic, and walks the fine line between the hilarity and tragedy of addiction.

On Thursday, February 27 D.A.D.S. from Co. Galwayperform ‘On Such As We’ by Billy Roche, and then Friday sees the return of Yellowmoon Theatre Company from Co. Wexford, with their performance of Closing the festival are Ballyduff Drama Group from Co. Wexford with their performance of Sam Shephard’s ‘Curse of the Starving Class’. This play is a darkly comic exploration of the American family psyche in the style of absurdism.

Nightly tickets are priced at £7 (con £5), Season Tickets are available for £40 (con £30) and our 4 night ticket is priced at £20 (con £15), bookings are now being taken and you can ring Paul in our box office on 07510 698404. Performances will begin nightly at 8pm (final night 7.30pm). Further details on the festival and the pre show meal offer at Ten omaghtoday | 35

around the

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

Enterprise and employability at Omagh High Local entrepreneur Charlene Adams of Cupid Creations Stationery returned to the halls of her old school this week as part of Enterprise and Employability Week at Omagh High School. Charlene, whose award-winning business specializes in bespoke wedding and other stationery, came into school to lead an enterprise workshop for year 9 pupils and also to take part

in a special ‘Enterprise Assembly’ talking to pupils about her journey from Omagh High School to third level education and on to establishing her own business. It’s hoped that her first hand account will encourage pupils to explore the possibility of entrepreneurship in their own careers.

Charlene Adams from Cupid Creations discussing careers with young Omagh High students.

Claire Beacom, Year 9a form teacher with young students at the Enterprise and Employability Week event.

Left: Mr. Ian McConaghy, principal of Omagh High School with students at their Enterprise and Employability Week event on Monday morning.

Right: Paula Burns, Head of Careers at Omagh High discussing careers with Charlie Fleming, Philip Cashel, Bethany Stewart and Lyndsay Fleming.

Farewell John Joe

The funeral took place in Omagh last week of the late John Joe McDonagh, a popular and well-known resident of Omagh's Hunters Crescent. A massive crowd turned out at Omagh's Sacred Heart Church for his funeral Mass, which was attended by mourners from across Ireland and the UK. Her is survived by his wife, Mary, seven daughters, five sons, 41 grandchildren and wider family circle. omaghtoday | 36

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

NEXT ISSUE...

20

FEBRUARY

Burns Night celebrations at Omagh Library

Dr. Phil Mowat retires after thirty years at Folk Park

LOCAL poetry lovers gathered in Omagh Library on Wednesday, January, 22 to celebrate the life and works of the famous Scottish poet, Robert Burns. Guests were welcomed with refreshments upon arrival and treated to music provided by ‘The Music’ band, who were joined by piper,’Rightly On’. The Burns Night celebrations began in true Scottish tradition as the Haggis was piped in by Andy MacGregor, along with two members of the Ulster Scots Juvenile Pipe Band. Following the toasting of the Haggis, James Patterson from Burns Poetry gave a recital and Billy Doherty treated the guests to story-telling and excerpts from Burns’ most famous literature. Further entertainment was provided by the Blue Thistle Highland Dancers and the Scottish Country Dancers, who were accompanied by Malcolm Cathers on the accordion. The celebrations were concluded by a member of Rightly On providing the music for ‘Auld Lang Syne,’ which saw all musicians and guests rising to their feet and joining hands.

The Burns Night event was organised

by Christine Finlay, who was assisted by Faustina Monaghan and Laura Milliken. Addressing the haggis at the Burns The organisers Night festivities in Omagh Library are wish to thank Billy Doherty, senior library assistant the Ulster Scots Christine Finlay and Derek Reaney from Agency for providing the Ulster - Scots Agency. many performers and a word of congratulations from Omagh District Council’s Chairman, who was in attendance on a very enjoyable night.

The Ulster American Folk Park’s Head of Emigration, Dr. Phil Mowat (centre) recently retired from museum life after 30 years of service. To mark his achievements and his retirement, Dr. Mowat was presented with a painting from his colleagues during his last day of work on Friday. Making the presentation to Dr. Phil is Monica Winters.

New DVD encourages young people to avoid debt RECENT research has revealed that young people are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet due to the pressure of keeping up with the latest trends, socialising with friends, or simply being tempted by the latest ‘must haves.’ The draw of loans and credit cards being offered online and on television means many young people are getting themselves into unnecessary debt, which can get out of control.

The Housing Executive, has teamed up with the Northern Ireland Youth Forum, to produce a new DVD aimed at under 25s, which warns of the dangers of getting into debt.

The DVD tells the stories of three young people, and documents how easy it was to get into debt and the impact it had on their lives. The DVD has been unloaded to YouTube www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6kctYrz46E and gives simple advice on where to seek help.

Copies of the DVD are also available from stephen.anderson@nihe.gov.uk omaghtoday | 37

VOICE OF

T

HE time-worn Irish tradition of song-collecting is, unfortunately, one that’s gradually fading into distant memory; old tunes, lyrics and indeed characters dying out year on year, never to be recovered.

But there’s one Omagh man who’s determined to do his bit to stem the tide – and while at 29, Cathal Lynch is considerably younger than most people familiar with this old tradition, he’s already devoted most of his life to exploring and preserving some of Irish folk music’s lesser-known treasures.

Cathal was only six when his interest in Irish traditional music was first awakened; his mother had always been a lover of the genre, but it was when an uncle of his father’s, who had previously moved to England, returned home for a visit that Cathal’s imagination was really captured.

“My great uncle Mia came home for three weeks in 1990 and while he was here my mother recorded him singing a number of Irish traditional songs on a cassette tape. I still have that tape and I’d go as far as to say it is one of my most prized possessions!” he says.

“My mother was a great driving force as mothers often are, and once I started showing an interest in sean-nós she and my father encouraged me to enter the local Feis and later on the Fleadh Cheoil competitions, so we would have travelled all over Tyrone, Fermanagh, Derry and Donegal to those. That gave me the opportunity to meet many wonderful singers, one of whom was a guy called John Corry from Castlederg, who had returned to Ireland after emigrating to Australia. He had a repertoire of more than 500 songs and he gave me lots of old ones, which really sparked my interest in

omaghtoday | 38

exploring more of the old material.”

Cathal cites another Omagh man, James Foley, as another big influence, especially when it came to unearthing the songs of his own forefathers here in West Tyrone, specifically from places like Dromore, Drumquin, Castlederg, Fintona and Clanabogan.

“He was a massive influence on me,” recalls Cathal. “He really blew the whole thing out of the water in the sense that he opened up this whole concept of collecting folk songs, of seeking out different versions of songs and then making them your own, which is something that has

gone on in traditional music all over the world for hundreds of years.”

Shortly after this time Cathal had his first experience of recording an album, which he did along with the help of Michael McDonald, a technician at Omagh CBS where Cathal was an A-Level student.

‘You Rambling Boys of Pleasure’ was recorded in the late afternoons in school, with just the cleaners for company, and Cathal saved up his own money to pay for the copies and sleeves to be made.

Oddly, when university beckoned it wasn’t a degree in the Arts that Cathal pursued – pure mathematics was his choice, although he admits he later regretted this decision. That didn’t mean there was no time for music, though, and during his time at Queen’s University he was invited by the Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann (CCE) to participate in a series of tours which took him to England in 2002, all over Ireland in 2003 and finally to the United States in 2004. In 2003, which was also when his first album came out, he became the youngest man to win the senior All Ireland Fleadh and the subsequent exposure, including a slot touring in the US with famous fiddler Brendan McGlinchey, made him a well-known name on the trad circuit.

His increased profile eventually led Cathal to meet a man that would become a close friend and indeed, he says, something of a father figure. Paddy Tunney, affectionately known as ‘The Man of Songs’, was the undisputed king of Irish traditional singing and when Cathal met him at a Fleadh in Listowel, Co. Kerry it was no surprise that the young man was impressed.

“He took me under his wing a bit and gave me a lot of songs,” says Cathal. “I spent a lot of time with him up until he died in

2002 and learned a lot. In fact after his death I suppose I struggled a bit to find my own voice, and to get people to hear what I had to say as an artist, because I was so frequently compared to him and his style.”

Over time, however, Cathal did find his own way; as he moved through his early twenties, completed his degree and settled down with his now wife Mairead, a new maturity and sense of identity began to pervade his music, silencing those who had previously dubbed him a copycat. He has made many connections in entertainment and arts circles across Ireland, with a wide array of talents from local stalwarts such as Tom Sweeney to leading lights like Belfast poet Ciaran Carson enriching his observations of Irish performance culture.

Today, Cathal remains as passionate as ever about the music, and indeed the genre itself has become infused with a new passion – it’s ‘cool’ again for the first time in decades, although on the competitive circuit he’s still regarded as a youngster.

In 2011 Cathal started his own business, Lynch Associates, a PR and Marketing consultancy – but staying true to his habit of keeping a musical iron in the fire, that same year he also recorded his second album ‘The Jolly Roving Tar’ with Martin Donohoe on his trad label ‘Nyah’. The extensive sleeve notes were compiled by Irish folk scholar Dr John Moulden from Galway University, and reflect Cathal’s commitment to preserving traditional music and the stories that accompany it for the enjoyment of future generations.

Cathal also teaches singing, and adjudicates at a variety of competitions across Ireland. He’s currently working on a book cataloguing some of Ireland’s most influential singers and folk songs, which he hopes to publish later this year, and as if that’s not enough, he’s planning a series of gigs around the country with Dubliner Daoiri Farrell – details will follow in due course.

Omagh CBS counting on winning partnership with McAleer Jackson Omagh CBS’ MacRory Cup Football Team has secured a financial windfall with their new sponsorship agreement from McAleer Jackson Chartered Accountants in a three year deal.

The Omagh-based firm, which employs 15 staff, previously sponsored the team between 2000 & 2008, a period in which the school achieved unprecedented success. During that time they won the MacRory Cup on three occasions and claimed the Hogan Cup (the premier prize for colleges in Ireland), for the first Pictured are Paul Brannigan, C. B. S. Principal, Kieran time in 2007.

Donnelly, MacRory Cup Manager, Cillian McCann, Hugh McAleer, Managing Director of McAleer Jackson, Captain and Hugh McAleer, McAleer Jackson. speaking today, said: “We are delighted to be involved in supporting Omagh CBS once again and have demonstrated our commitment to the school with our sponsorship deal”.

Paul Brannigan, Principal of Omagh CBS, emphasised the proud tradition of sporting endeavour and achievement within the school. “However, with the success that we have enjoyed in recent years comes additional expense, and we very much appreciate the support of McAleer Jackson in this regard”.

All parties will no doubt be keen to see a repeat of the success enjoyed last time around.

Luke Padion - fab at eighty Left: Luke Padian with daughters Kathleen, Rita and Mary and son Luke at his 80th birthday bash in McAtee's, Fintona on Friday night.

Below: Luke Padian with grandchildren Callum Padian, Cliona Began, Caitlin Padian, Marcus Mitchell, Cáoileánn Mitchell and Sinead Loughran.

omaghtoday | 39

Talented local artists exhibit their work

Artist Andrea Hall, second from right, with Sean Donnelly, Vice Chairman of Omagh District Council, Geraldine O'Reilly, one of the exhibition organisers and Jean Brennan, Strule Arts Centre at the launch Rory O'Loughlin with his of the 'Tyrone Open Arts' exhibition in the Strule Arts 'Camping in Cornwall' Centre. Andrea was one of the Tyrone born artists masterpiece. who were featuring their fine art, photography and mixed media exhibition which will run until Saturday 1st, March.

Mary Corrigan with her 'Wine and Fruit' acrylic creation. Admiring the work is her daughter Elaine.

Artist Gerry Bradley with his wife and two masterpieces entitled 'Single at the Blackbird' and 'On the Shelf'.

Artist Jean McSorley with her minders at the exhibition launch.

Artist Steven Conlon, second from right, with Carmel Harney, Strule Arts Centre and family members Holly, Joel and Rosie at the exhibition launch.

Tony Moore proud creator of many moody and timeless photographs including this 'The Spires' scene at the opening of the exhibition.

Carol McCandless showing her 'Rare Auld times' (bottom picture).

Young artist Dominic Gormley shows his pencil drawings to his cousin Elsie May

Melanie Quick with her Las Ramblas, Sharyn Kelly with her hand needlefelt Denise Maguire with her clay Kathleen Hinds with her 'Shanty Barcelona and The Old Stone Bridge scenes. creations. creation entitled 'Donegal Shores".

Music' in Oils.

Paul Mulgrew shows his 'Year of Yellow' photography creation to exhibition visitors. omaghtoday | 40

Dromore artist Liam Breen shows Sean Donnelly his 'Sun, Wind, Rain and Soil' Bernadette McGoldrick shows her daughter creation which was inspired from an unusual her exhibition masterpiece entitled 'Cosette'. flower close to a running burn.

Bon voyage Sean

Artist Ita McGuigan with her son Fergal and her Gortin Glens and View from Inishcorkish creations.

Left: Sean Holden who has just gone to Saskatoon, Canada pictured with his mum Josie at a ‘going away’ party in the Glebe Bar on Friday, 24th January. Sean, a talented welder, will continue his chosen career in Canada.

Right: Shaun with his pretty fiancee Lisa Kenny who is also travelling to Canada.

Omagh's Kieran Breslin proudly shows two of his masterpieces entitled Antrim Coast and Lovers Retreat to his daughter Lorraine McGrinder.

Ciara to wed Gary Artist Geraldine Sweeney shows hubby her 'Winter Wonderland' masterpiece.

Margaret Scott with her Ballycastle Harbour creation.

Hen Ciara McCaul who will ‘tie the knot’ on 28th March with fiance Gary Crowne.

Ciara is pictured with one of her bridesmaids Tracy Crowne and friends at her hen night in the Coach Inn last Saturday night.

omaghtoday | 41

Principal Briege celebrates her 50th

Birthday girl Briege Daly, third from right, pictured with hubby Briege and her mammy Popular Briege Daly with husband Aidan Aidan and daughters Amanda Donnell, Emma Gormley, Aideen at the party on Saturday and her godchildren Pearse Bradley and and Zoe Daly at her 50th in the Mellon Country Hotel on Saturday night.

Megan Devlin. night.

omaghtoday | 42

Dolphins run 'round the lough

Eamon Logue, who came second and Conor Moore who came first in the 5k run, for the Strule Dolphins club, at Loughmacrory on Sunday.

omaghtoday | 43

TheSideline Local sport insights from Paddy Hunter...

Heartbreak for Valley

cup resting comfortably in the Strathroy Harps trophy cabinet WORDS could not express the gut wrenching feeling that was - two in a row and perhaps it would have been easy to rest on left in the Clogher Valley dressing room in the west of Dublin on his laurels. But not the once teak tough defender: "You know, it's great to win that cup but we want more, we want more of the Saturday last.

It's not the first time, nor indeed will it be the last, that the same and I won't be happy until we have the Mercer cup sitting progressive local side have lost a game; but this was different here too," he says. for Davy Black and his players. Having battled hard throughout For those who don't know, the Mercer Cup is the first division the all Ireland junior cup final against the reigning champions trophy in the Fermanagh and Western league and it’s a long time Enniscorthy they could so easily have won the decider in the since it rested in Omagh - or indeed Tyrone for that matter, such has the Fermanagh dominance been. The target was set by the closing seconds.

Harps boss last Summer, it was vital that they got off to a good start in the league campaign, vital to hit the ground running unlike other seasons when they huffed and puffed and by Christmas were only hitting the sort of form that wins you titles.

Well it’s February and just at the right time the Harps are top of the table, two points clear of the champions Enniskillen Town United. A combination of games not being played and the use of Omagh Leisure complex meant that a 3-2 win over Killen last week and Cathal Taggart’s late winner Valley's David Sharkey gets stopped by Valley's Richard Primrose finds there is no puts them top of the top flight for the first Enniscorthy's William Dunne. way through the Ennsicorthy defence . time in their history.

It's now a case of staying there and that will not be straightforward, the Harps have irons in several fires with the Irish junior cup battle continuing this weekend against St Paul’s. "It will be hard," admitted Fanthorpe, who has kept a lot of footballers happy despite having a big squad. “St Paul’s are good but we know we can progress, it is about us now consolidating our title push too, we have to be careful but if we can continue what we are doing we are capable of claiming the title.

Being top is the best place to be."

Clive Donaldson gets stopped by Ryan Wilson backed up by his brother BJ Enniscorthy's Wall and O'Neill. breaks form the ruck.

With four minutes to go Jack Kelly looked to have secured the cup for the champions when he drilled over a penalty - harshly awarded it has to be said - but such are the qualities of the Tyrone side, they dug in and pressed forward again, trailing 10-9.

Seconds to go and a penalty awarded, it’s a brave man who takes the responsibilty in such circumstances but that's just what Phillp Holmes did. In a gale that had affected place kicking all day, he watched helplessly as the breeze caught the ball and pulled it wide of the uprights to deny a last gasp win.

Heartbreak is not a strong enough word for Davy Black and his players, but you must stand up and be counted in finals and that's just what the local side had done. They had been the underdogs but not in their minds, they had performed well and had almost achieved the holy grail of the junior game… so will they be back ?

Well that depends on the qualifying league campaign, a campaign that keeps on giving, the focus now is winning that league and then play-offs for the all Ireland league. The dream of senior rugby at the Crann is not that far away, but before that though there's more cup rugby on the horizon.

One hand on the trophy for harps?

In July last year Seamus Fanthorpe sat looking at the Irish Junior

omaghtoday | 44

New boys looking good

New faces once again for Tyrone last weekend as they earned a draw on the opening day of the Allianz national football league with Derry. The Oakleafs battled back to snatch a share of the spoils after Tyrone led by seven. Mickey Harte was left with mixed emotions at the end: "We were happy with some aspects of our play, some was good but when we were bad we were very bad. I would be concerned that we let them back."

Four debutants on the night and none of them looked out of place.

Conan Grugan found the net early on while Barry Tierney, Shea McGuigan and PJ Lavery all played well. Tyrone welcome Mayo to Healy Park on Sunday and that game will be preceded by the ladies national league clash between Tyrone and Mayo.

The new look ladies lost to Kerry on Sunday last but will take positives from a spirited display from players all eager to impress.

And finally….

Don't forget to get your nominations in for the Omagh Sports Forum Awards, the closing date is February 26th and the gala night takes place in March. Its a chance to honour those who play, coach and promote sport across the district and it's always a great night at the Strule Arts Centre.

Tattyreagh St. Patrick's GAA youth presentation night

Tattyreagh youth players with visitors and officials at their presentation night in the Clubhouse.

Courtney Mitchell receives the 'Most Improved Player' award from Claire McEnhill.

U13 Eoin O'Brien, Player of the Year and Ciaran McCrory, U12 Player of the Year and Niall McDonagh his U14 award from Pearse Ger McElholm, Most Improved Player of Niall Callaghan, U12 Most Improved Player Darcy. Also in the pic are officials Charlie the Year receive their awards. of the Year with officials.

Mitchell and Sean McDermott.

Ballygawley Ju-Jitsu students need your votes!

Kyle, Josh, Chris, Paul, Chris and Phillip who are members of the Ballygawley Ju-Jitsu adult club MARTIAL arts apprentices at Ballygawley Ju-Jitsu club are appealing for votes from local people as they bid to perform a demonstration in front of the leading world official in their sport, President Giacomo Spartaco Bertoletti – a 9th Dan martial artist from Italy.

From Friday, February 21 the World Ju-Jitsu Federation in Ireland is hosting a special weekend memorial for its founding member, Soke Robert Clarke, and will host the World President as part of the proceedings, with each club in Ireland having the chance to

The Ju-Jitsu junior club with their tutor Tom Monaghan. perform a short demonstration for him. The local club, which holds classes for both junior and senior students at St Ciaran’s Hall, Ballygawley, is open to all ages and physical abilities, and teaches both physical and mental skills as well as a philosophy of courage, honour, respect and benevolence. To vote for Ballygawley Ju-Jitsu Club’s demonstration, you must first visit and ‘like’ the World Jujitsu Federation Ireland Facebook page, then find and ‘like’ the video of WJJF Ballygawley.

omaghtoday | 45

NO ADULTS ALLOWED!!!

No matter where you live – town or country, house or flat – observing and feeding common garden birds is a simple pleasure that can help you learn more about the creatures living right on your doorstep, as well as making a real difference to their chances of survival!

The RSPB recently held their annual ‘Big Garden Bird Watch’ which encourages people to count the number and type of birds they see in their back gardens – the results help to establish a picture of which garden birds are thriving in which areas of the UK, and which species are in decline. But don’t worry if you missed out! It’s never too late to put out some bird food and give a helping hand to our feathered friends during wintry weather, and you can have great fun learning more about the birds that come to feast on the treats you’ve left out – you never know, some might even stick around into spring and build their nests in your garden!

Common garden birds...

how many of these can you spot in your garden?

Collared Dove

Blackbird

Blackcap

Bluetit

Chaffinch

Coal Tit

Dunnock

Goldfinch

Wren

Great Tit

Jackdaw

Greenfinch

Magpie

Robin_0346s

Rook

Song Thrush omaghtoday | 46

Sparrow House

Starling

Wood Pigeon

Make your own bird treats...

It’s easy to make simple treats and feeders for garden birds.

Here are some ideas!

1. Take an empty toilet roll tube and smear the outside with a thick layer or peanut butter.

Pour some wild bird seed onto a plate or tray and roll the tube in it until the outside is completely covered in seeds.

Thread a piece of string or ribbon through the middle of the tube and use this to hang it from a branch or bird table.

2. Get an adult to help you melt one cup of suet in a saucepan over a low heat, then add 1.5-2 cups of bird seed and mix well. Place some cookie cutters on a baking sheet and press the seed mixture into them as tightly as you can. Then take some short piece of drinking straw and push them through the middle of each shape, and place the tray in the fridge. When the suet has hardened again, you can remove the straws, carefully press the shapes out of the cookie cutters and thread string through the holes so you can hang them up, or leave them on a bird table for birds like robins.

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

Dogs best friend

Oscar is Ann McRory's seven month old Westie and loves his comforts, like all of us. Here he is chilling out, or is warming up beside the cooker after his walkies, 'round Ballygawley, on a cold wet day.

A dog's best friend!! Pussy, now pussy be careful with that paw.

Enjoying Philly in the fall.

Doesn't news travel!

Alice Gormley holding her grandson Riley Welsh in Philadelphia at the 'Rocky' steps reading a copy of a Omagh Today magazine.

Stagefright prepares for ‘Nightmare’

3. You can make really easy bird feeders by threading popcorn, berries, cubes of cheese or even Cheerios onto strong thread or thin wire (get an adult to help!).

If you use wire you can even bend it into circles or hearts to make pretty outdoor tree decorations that your feathered friends will love!

OMAGH’S Stagefright Theatre Company are well into the final rehearsals and preparation for their latest production in the Strule Arts Centre on February 21 and 22.

The company has taken the bold step of bringing a new and exciting genre of play to the stage this season with their production of ‘Nightmare’ written by Norman Robbins, the world's most prolific and successful pantomime writer.

‘Nightmare’ is a suspense thriller with the added element of ‘whodunnit’ to keep audiences enthralled. Robbins has created an ingenious plot with very real and credible characters which allows the play to develop a sense of realism and truth which is the hallmark of good theatre.

After a year’s break from touring, Stagefright Theatre Company find themselves back on the All Ireland Amateur Drama Festival Circuit - the only local group representing the Omagh and District area this season.

The fact the company has been invited to no less than six festivals is due in no small part, to the play itself. The exciting storyline, and the fact it is a genre not seen very often, adds greatly to the audience appeal. It should ensure full houses at every venue and will also be greatly anticipated by local theatregoers.

If you enjoy attempting to solve murder mysteries, you must go and see this ingenious thriller which will keep you in suspense till the very end.

‘Nightmare’ opens at Strule on Friday, February 21 and brisk interest in both nights is expected, so book early to avoid disappointment. Tickets, priced at £9/£7, are available from the Box Office at Strule, tel: 028 8224 7831 or visit www. struleartscentre.co.uk. omaghtoday | 47