Jan / Feb 2016 I ssue 7 N á habair ach beagán, ach abair go maith é!

Laura Griffin in action! Photo courtesy GMIT Mayo Students' Union

s u i t s h i r t t i e s h o e s & b e l t f r o m 1 9 9?

MAIN STREET, CASTLEBAR

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Castlebar Parish Church

Saturday - 7pm

Sunday - 8.30am 10.30am & 12pm

Ballyheane Church

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Breaffy Church

Sunday - 10am & 11.30am

Keep an Eye on Castlebar

Castlebar Eye Team

Editor's Note Castlebar Mass TimesDear Readers,

Fáilte! Welcome to issue 7 of The Castlebar Eye magazine. If you are reading the Castlebar Eye for the first time, here is a little bit about the magazine. The Castlebar Eye is a free community magazine which aims to bring you local information and notices and details of events happening in the area. If you are involved in sport or any community group it is free to publicise your notices so add us to your mailing list - info@castlebareye.com.  If you would like to make a contribution in the form of an article or have written a piece that you would like to see published, please send it to us for consideration. For any items like photos you would like to share, details on upcoming events in or around the Castlebar area please email us at info@castlebareye.com or call us on 086 065 1704. Help us to put the 'unity' in your community! Get involved and make a contribution to your free community magazine. This issue features the GMIT Mayo Kayakers event, The Irish Heart Foundation fundraising event, Western Care's Candlelit ball, updates from Le Cheile Community and Family resource centre and much more. Thank you to our advertisers for your support of The Castlebar Eye. Remember to shop local throughout the year when at all possible and support the local businesses of Castlebar. Contact us for advertising rates. Even the smallest marketing budget is catered for and you are guaranteed to target your local market. The Castlebar Eye magazine is the ideal platform to use. The magazine is distributed around Castlebar town and surrounding areas every month in newsagents and filling stations, waiting rooms plus online version www.castlebareye.com.

We welcome your emails and contributions.

Slán go fóill.

086 065 1704

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It is in hardship that a friend is recognised

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Legal Disclaimer Clickaround Ltdhas taken all reasonable care to ensure that the information contained in this Publication is accurate on the stated date of publication or last modif ication. We take the utmost care however it is possible that the information may be out of date, incomplete or the opinion of the author. It is advisable that you verify any information from this publication before relying on it. Clickaround Ltd accepts no responsibil ity for the consequences of error or for any loss or damage suffered by readers of any of the information and material contained in this publication. Materials contained within are subject to copyright and other proprietary rights. Further information- Clickaround Ltd ,The Square, Belmullet, Co Mayo.086 065 1704.

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Cast lebar Library Opening TimesSun & Mon - Closed

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Castlebar Order of Malta are available to provide Ambulance & First Aid cover at

sporting and community events. The Order of Malta also provide a Transport service

for people attending hospital appointments.

Call 087 707 4514 for info.

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HUNDREDS OF KAYAKERS TO GATHER IN CASTLEBAR AND TUAM FOR INTERVARSITIES HOSTED BY GMIT MAYO (5 ? 7 Feb)Hundreds of kayakers from Ireland?s third level colleges are to gather in Galway and Mayo from Friday 5 to Sunday 7 February for the 2016 Kayaking Intervarsities, hosted by students and staff on the Outdoor Education degree programme at GMIT Mayo.Over 500 competitors from 16 colleges will compete in the Kayaking Intervarsities which is one of the largest participation events in third level sport in Ireland. Competitive events will be held in the Castlebar Swimming Pool, Lough Lannagh (Bridge Street at St Geralds), the Clydagh River and the Clare River in Tuam.Nigel Jennings, Sports Office, GMIT Mayo, says: ?Most people around Castlebar will be familiar with the Clydagh River but how many will know that a rapid on the upper section called ?The Five Steps? - with the optimum rainfall - is one of the toughest white water sections of any river in the country.? ?We are looking forward to the competition and encourage members of the public to join in the entertainment on offer over the weekend. We thank Castlebar Municipal District for its co-operation in allowing us access facilities to make the event possible, such as the swimming pool, Lough Lannagh and the car parks, and the setting up of a festival village to cater for the visitors' arrival on Friday evening. ?An event of this magnitude is a huge undertaking and it would not be possible without the generous support of our main sponsors McHale Caravans, Cabins and Marine, and Lough Lannagh Village.? ?As the adventure tourism industry grows and the use of Lough Lannagh is optimized, it?s great to have an excellent accommodation option right on the campus doorstep with McHale Caravans, Cabins and Marine, and Lough Lannagh Village, a comprehensive equipments supplier in the locality. They are both supporting this national event.The schedule of events during the weekend is as follows:Friday, 5 February, all day ? Kayak Polo at Castlebar Swimming Pool;Friday, 5 February, all day ? Slalom at Lough Lannagh (the bridge at St Geralds);Saturday morning, 6 February ? White water at the Clydagh River;Saturday afternoon, 6 February ? Freestyle at the Clare River in TuamSunday morning, 7 February ? Long Distance at Lough Lannagh, Castlebar.Event organiser and GMIT Outdoor Education student Ronan O ?Neill says: ?Given the right conditions, the ?Five Steps Rapid? on the River Clydagh is one of the most challenging sections you could hope to have. We are very lucky to have such a river on our doorstep and hopefully it will put its best display on for the day as watching the country?s top student paddlers take on this challenge will be a brilliant spectacle.?GMIT Mayo offers two courses in Outdoor Education: the BA in Outdoor Education and Leisure (GA870) which is a Level 7 (three years), with an option to add on one year (Level 8) to gain an honours degree through the progression route; and the BA (Hons) in Outdoor Education, a four year honours degree programme (GA885).

Annual General Meeting16th February 2016 at 7pm

Welcome Inn HotelEveryone Welcome!

We look forward to seeing you there.

Pictured above is a group from the Castlebar 4 day walks 2016 Castlebar International 4 Days Walks! Join them and old as well as new friends in Castlebar between 30th June and 3rd July next for this year's walks. Full details are on www.castlebar4dayswalks.com

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Mind Space Stress and worry of every day life among children and young

adults is ever prevalent in today?s world. There is a stigma attached to youth mental health. Mindspace Mayo is a free and confidential support service for young people?s mental health and wellbeing. Mindspace?s aim is to support young people aged 15-25 who are going through a difficult time to ensure they get the support they need. The centre in the Market Square, Castlebar provides a welcoming space for young people to call in, get information or have a chat one?to-one with a support worker. If a young person wants support, our staff are there to listen, without making judgements, and to provide supportive guidance. We also provide information and advice to anyone who is worried about a friend or young person in their life. If you would like more information on Mindspace Mayo you can visit their website at www.mindspacemayo.ie

The Green Thing....Yesterday after shopping in our local supermarket, I was in the queue at the check-out, and heard when the young cashier suggested to the much older lady that she should bring her own grocery bags, because plastic bags are not good for the environment.The woman apologised to the young girl & then sighed, "We didn't have this 'green thing' back in my earlier days."The young clerk responded, "That's our problem today. You folk didn't do enough to save our environment for future generations."The older lady said "Ahh yes you're right -- our generation didn't have the "green thing" in its day." She sighed then continued: Back then, we returned milk bottles, lemonade bottles & beer bottles to the shops. The shops then sent them back to the plant to be washed, sterilized & refilled, so those same bottles were used over & over, thus REALLY were recycled. But we didn't have the "green thing" back in our day. Grocery stores put our groceries into brown paper bags that we reused for numerous things. Most memorable was the use of brown paper bags as book covers for our school books. This was to ensure that public property (the books provided for our use by the school) were not defaced by our scribblings. Then we were able to personalise our books on their brown paper bag/covers. But, too bad we didn't do the "green thing" back then.I remember how we walked up stairs because we didn't have an escalator in every store or office building; walked to the grocery store & didn't climb into a 300-horsepower machine every time we had to go 200 yards.. . . But she was right. We didn't have the "green thing" in our day. Back then we washed the baby's nappies because we didn't have the throw away kind. We dried clothes on a line, not in an energy-gobbling machine burning up 220 volts. Wind & solar power really did dry our clothes back in our days. Kids got hand-me-down clothes from their brothers or sisters, not always brand-new clothing. . . . But that young lady is right; we didn't have the "green thing" back in our day. Back then we had one radio, in the house -- not a TV in every room. And if anyone did own a TV, it had a small screen the size of a handkerchief (remember them?), not a screen the size of a football pitch. When cooking we blended & stirred by hand because we didn't have electric machines to do everything for us. When we packaged a fragile item to send by post, we used layers of old newspapers to cushion it, not Styrofoam or plastic bubble wrap. Back then, we didn't fire up an engine and burn gasoline just to cut the lawn. We used a push mower that ran on human power. We exercised by working so we didn't need to go to a health club to run on treadmills that operate on electricity., , , , But she's right; we didn't have the "green thing" back then.We drank from a tap or fountain when we were thirsty instead of using a cup or a plastic bottle every time we had a drink of water. We refilled writing pens with ink instead of buying a new pen & we replaced the razor blade in a razor instead of throwing away the whole razor just because the blade got dull. But we didn't have the "green thing" back then. Back then, people took the bus & kids rode bikes to school or walked instead of turning their mothers into a 24-hour taxi service in the family's expensive car or van, which cost what a whole house did before the "green thing".. Oh and we had one electrical outlet in a room, not an entire bank of sockets to power a dozen appliances. And we didn't need a computerized gadget to receive a signal beamed from satellites 23,000 miles out in space in order to find the nearest leisure park.. . . . But it so sad this current generation laments how wasteful we old folks were just because we didn't have the "green thing" back then? . . . I think you should forward this on to another selfish old person who needs a lesson in conservation from some smart ass young person. .. ...We don't like being old in the first place, so it doesn't take much to annoy us... Especially from a smart ass who can't make change without the cash register telling them how much. Found on social media by an oldy!

2016 edition of the Castlebar Business Directory is under way. If you would like to advertise or have a

number you would like to include, please contact us on

086 065 1704

Keep an Eye on Castlebar pa g e 6

Brave Hearted Men and Women are being sought for a white collar boxing event, taking place in Castlebar April 1st 2016. The volunteer boxers that sign up will be starting an eight week training

programme in January so if you are looking for a challenge and to get fit for 2016 then this may be the event for youBreffni Gorman, Regional Fundraising Manager said, ?We?ve had a great response to the Big Heart Fight Night so far, with people from all walks of life applying to take part. There are a few more places left in the programme which see everyone getting fit in a safe environment while raising money to keep our life saving research and programmes going.?Each participant will be required to raise sponsorship for the Irish Heart Foundation and there are ways in which local businesses can sponsor a boxer. The Irish Heart Foundation will be on hand to help with fundraising throughout. All the funds raised from the Big Heart Fight Night will go towards the Irish Heart Foundation?s life saving research and educational programmes.To take part in the Big Heart Fight Night fill in the application form at www.irishheart.ie/boxing where you can fill in an application form or contact Breffni Gorman, Irish Heart Foundation at bgorman@irishheart.ie.

Brave Hearted Men and Women wanted for white col lar boxing event

GMIT Mayo Campus is offering a new course to the business community in Mayo. Aimed specifically at the services sector, this course will focus on the unique challenges of marketing a service business and on delivering

consistently on service promises.  We will examine the service experience from the customer?s perspective and assess how the various elements of the marketing mix can be used to attract customers and retain their loyalty. 

The course will be beneficial to staff in any business with a strong service element, particularly businesses that deal directly with the public, whether in personal, face-to-face situations or online. This would include, for example, retail, hospitality, tourism, personal and professional services.

Topics will include:- understanding the unique nature of services and the marketing challenges involved- Analysing the customer and how he/she makes decisions.- educating the customer and managing customer relationships- positioning the service to appeal to specific groups of customers- developing new services and adding new elements to existing services- ensuring that employees represent a positive element of the service for customers- creating the right physical environment and the most efficient processes for service delivery- Setting pricing and using online and offline promotional techniques to communicate with your customers The course will be delivered on Monday evenings at GMIT Mayo Campus, Castlebar, starting on Monday 18th January (7 pm to 9 pm) and running for 13 weeks (two week break for Easter).

If you would like more information or wish to sign up for this course, please come along to GMIT Mayo Campus Open Evening on Thursday, 7th January, (7 pm to 9 pm) or contact Celene Dunphy, Marketing Lecturer, GMIT Mayo Campus.  Tel. 094 9043112, e-mail: celene.dunphy@gmit.ie

*Services Marketing is an accredited module on the GMIT Lifelong Learning Programme. Those who successfully complete the module will be awarded a Single Subject Certificate (Accredited)

086 065 1704

Keep an Eye on Community pa g e 7

Miriam O?Callaghan to attend sell-out Candlelight Ball celebrating 50 years of Western Care Renowned RTÉ Broadcaster Miriam O?Callaghan is the keynote speaker at the annual Candlelight Ball which this year celebrates 50 years of Western Care in Mayo. This hugely popular annual fundraiser for Western Care, the organisation that exists to empower people with a wide range of learning and associated disabilities to live full and satisfied lives as equal citizens, will take place in Breaffy House Resort on Saturday, March 13 and is a sell-out. The scramble for tickets for this year?s event is testament to the outstanding work carried out by the staff and volunteers of Western Care, an organisation that was set up back in 1966 by parents and friends of children with a learning disability. Highlights of this year?s event will be the return of the mystery gambles, auction with Tommy Collins Auctioneer, silent raffle and new this year will be a performance by Magician Martin Stringer. The Castlebar Voluntary Branch is responsible for organising the Candlelight Ball and speaking at the recent launch Chairperson Lorraine Hall expressed her delight that Miriam O?Callaghan would be attending. Ahead of the upcoming event Lorraine commented: ?Miriam joins a long list of celebrities that have spoken at the ball annually and she is a fantastic woman to have on board to help us celebrate this landmark occasion of 50 years. ? Lorraine continued that Western Care will run a number of events throughout 2016 to celebrate the 50th anniversary milestone. For more information on Western Care and the Candlelight Ball check them out on Facebook or at www.westerncare.com

Photo Caption: Helen McHugh, Chairperson Western Care; Bernard O?Regan, Executive Director Western Care; Lorraine Hall, Chairperson Castlebar Voluntary Branch; and Johnny Mee, founder of Western Care at the launch of the 2016 Candlelight Ball in Breaffy House Resort recently. Photo: John Moylette.

Community First Responder Scheme being set up in Castlebar A Community First Responder Scheme operates whereby the ambulance service upon receiving the 112 or 999 call, in addition to the usual ambulance/EMS personnel, simultaneously dispatches a rostered on-call community-based first responder. Community First Responders are dispatched by the HSE National Ambulance Service (NAS) to life threatening emergencies such as cardiac arrest, adult chest pain (suspected heart attack), choking and stroke only. Castlebar Community First Responders are currently recruiting and training members and hope to be available to be dispatched by ambulance control in mid 2016 on a 24/7 basis. If you?d like to help by responding to medical emergencies in your community, or if you?d just like to learn CPR and how to save a life contact Castlebar CFR?s by emailing castlebar.cfr@mayoicrr.ie

contact Donal Geraghty on 087 630 9776

Castlebar Tennis Club Committee and club members would like to congratulate our Director of Tennis Garrett Barry on his appointment as "National Performance Officer" for Tennis Ireland.Garrett's current role at Castlebar Tennis Club , and as Regional Development Officer in Connacht will not change. In his new role he will liaise with the performance officers in each of the provinces and work with Gary Cahill in Tennis Ireland to link the National Tennis Centre to the regional performance programmes .Congratulations Garrett

Almost a football team! Here is the brave souls that headed out on the 2 Lakes Challenge on Sunday morning last. They were a very different picture a couple of hours later! Thanks to Conor McKeown for the picture

This year marks an exciting year for Oliver Kellehers as they celebrate 40 YEARS in business. Set up by Oliver and Mary Kelleher in 1976 they continue to operate as a family run business. There are unmissable offers lined up and a party to celebrate our anniversary! Congratulations!Offering an extensive range of Hygiene, Cleaning, Tableware and Kitchen Products along with a full selection of top brand catering equipment. They supply and service to Hospitals, Hotels, Bars, Restaurants, Schools and Factories throughout Ireland.

Guaranteeing a personal service and stocking over 5000 products, Oliver Kelleher ltd has one of the largest and most state of the art catering showrooms in Ireland. Kelleehers are agents for leading brands such as Tork, Rubbermaid, Contico, Ramon Hygiene products, Lincat, True refridgeration, Robot coupe, & Omniwash to name a few.We regularly run promotions, open days and special offers, and our local sales representatives can call to you on request.Their sister business, All Affairs is also situated in the showrooms in Castlebar, and offers you the option to rent out a range of catering goods for those one off events. Visit www.allaffairshire.com

Keep an Eye on Community pa g e 8

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Come a long t o t he Ca st leba r Win t e r Ma r ke t t he la s t Fr id ay of t he mont h 9 - 2 a t T he New Tenn is Club,

Lough La nna gh Rd .

Castlebar Winter Markets are coming back from Friday 29th January & it will continue once a month on the last Friday of every month. ( till we resume the weekly Friday market in the spring/summer season. ) Watch this space for regular updates.

In the meantime please do help us spread the word See ye all again very soon .

Furniture and household shop with all proceeds going to Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation. Donations welcome.Open Mon-Sat 10am-5.30pm.

N5 Retail Park, Castlebar, Moneen Road, Co MayoN5 Retail Park, Castlebar, Moneen Road, Co Mayo

New Loans Scheme Proposals Will Disproportionately Affect Those from Rural and Agricultural BackgroundsThe new proposed loan scheme will disproportionately affect those from rural and agricultural backgrounds, according to the Union of Students in Ireland and the Irish Farmers Association, who met last Friday.Commenting on the proposals Kevin Donoghue, USI president said, ?Any implementation of the new proposed loan scheme for students would disproportionately affect those from rural and agricultural backgrounds, deter them from applying to college, and widen the gap between urban and rural opportunities. People from rural backgrounds are more likely to be on 3rd level grants and so are more likely to be affected by the new proposals.?Mr Donoghue added, ?Introducing things like asset testing for grants and replacing grant payments with loans will disproportionately affect those in rural backgrounds and farmers. Students from rural and agricultural backgrounds already face higher costs than those who are from urban areas, especially with expenses like accommodation and transportation.?Commenting on the proposals IFA Farm Business Chairman Tom Doyle said, ?The farming community would not tolerate any changes which would result in children from low income farm families being excluded from third level grants.?There are currently 56 3rd level agricultural courses of offer, covering a range of cutting-edge contemporary technologies and approaches to modern farming in Ireland.Mr Doyle added, ?With a 45% increase in the value of food and drink exports achieved since 2009, Ireland?s agri-food sector has been a driving force of export growth and national economic recovery. The sectors performance and associated increased employment opportunities have resulted in a huge surge in enrolment numbers for agricultural and agri food courses. The Irish government needs to ensure equality of access to third level education for low income farm families to fully deliver on the potential and growth opportunities in the sector.?The agri-food sector in Ireland contributes a value of ?26bn (gross turnover) to the national economy, generates 7.6%[1] of gross value added (GVA)[2], almost 12.3% of Ireland?s exports and provides 8.6% of national employment. Due to low levels of import dependence, and profit repatriation on one hand and high levels of investment in the local economy on the other, the sector provides balanced growth which is been felt throughout the country.

Keep an Eye on SportCastlebar Ladies Rugby

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Castlebar Ladies Rugby Team suffered a heart-breaking defeat at the hands of NUIG in the Connacht League Final on January 23rd at Tuam RFC. A game that ended 12-10 in favour of the students was played in extremely cold and wet weather, conditions that perhaps made this defeat seem that bit worse. Castlebar came into this final topping the Connacht League table just one point ahead of NUIG and looking to complete a historic 3-in-a-row Connacht League titles but were denied by a team who displayed great power and accurate

ball handling. Castlebar were first out of the blocks and had their first score on the board in a matter of minutes. A powerful run by speedy centre Ursula Sammon who tore through NUIG?s defence, crossed the white wash and put Castlebar 7-0 up after Becky Gavin converted. This should have put a spring in the step of the girls in blue but the next 20 minutes were shaky for Castlebar as they found it difficult to get their hands on the ball and had to defend their own half of the pitch for what seemed like an eternity. They cleared their lines on numerous occasions and defended ferociously but eventually the pressure became too much and NUIG powered over the try line and levelled the game after adding the extra two points. NUIG kept possession for much of the rest of the half and their momentum built when Castlebar?s Emma Fabby was shown yellow and a ten minute stay in the sin bin for not rolling away. NUIG attacked Castlebar?s line and looked to have scored their second try but it was ruled to have been held up. Undeterred, however, the students didn?t give up and spread the ball wide where they crashed over in the corner giving them a 12-7 lead at half time after a missed conversion. The second half was played mostly between the two 22 metre lines with neither side getting near their opposing team?s try line, such was the defensive efforts from both teams. Castlebar were awarded a penalty for their trouble and Becky Gavin slotted it cleanly over the bar leaving the gap between the teams at 2 points, 12-10. The large crowd that had gathered to cheer on both teams were treated to a frantic and exciting last 15 minutes as Castlebar pounded NUIG?s defence, looking for the smallest of gaps but NUIG stood strong and there was no way through. Castlebar were awarded a penalty out on the left wing in the last play of the game which they opted to kick for the posts. What was an extremely difficult kick and could have snatched victory just slipped under the posts which NUIG gathered and kicked to safety as the final whistle blew, declaring them Connacht League Champions for the 2015 league and denying Castlebar their 3-in-a-row. Heartbreak for the girls who have worked so hard since July. But with every defeat comes a lesson and it?s one they will take with them and use to their advantage in their next games in the Connacht Cup and upcoming Connacht Invitational Cup. Castlebar would like to thank NUIG for a fantastic game of rugby and wish them every success in their college games. A special thanks to all of the supporters, who came and braved the elements to cheer both teams on. Also a huge thank you to our sponsors The Castle Inn, Murrays Ambulance Service, Supermacs and Rockys Bar. Castlebar?s season continues as they take on Tuam at home in Castlebar this Sunday January 31st in the next round of the Connacht Cup. Time tbc Castlebar: Becky Gavin, Nicola Hall, Ursula Sammon, Mairéad Hopkins, Emma Doyle (Vice Captain), Darwyn O?Halloran, Claire Cuffe, Yvon McNabb, Emma Fabby, Sandra Kenny, Anne-Marie O?Hora (Captain), Lucy Golden, Kadie Moyles, Fiona Nic Ruairí, Kiara Irwin. Replacements: Jacinta Walsh, Chelsea Joyce, Emma Feerick, Alison Clancy and Jen Keegan. Coaches and management: Jason Keane & Christy Cusack Team Mascot: Sophie Keane

Club Membership for 2016 is now open.Join or renew online via this link or through our website... www.castlebarmitchels.com and be part of Connacht's number one club.

Castlebar Celtic will be hosting trials for the forthcoming U13 boys season this Saturday afternoon the 6th February at Celtic Park.We would like to invite all current and new players to this event.It is open to boys born in 2004 only and all players must bring boots,shin pads and water with them.The nmanagement look forward to meeting all new and old faces!

Masters Go To TownCastlebar Celtic 11-2 Crossmolina Castlebar Celtic Masters got back to winning way in some style as they overcame an out of form Crossmolina 11-2. The North Mayo side had closed the gap to just a single goal early in the second-half but were forced to finish the game with just six players on the field and Celtic took full advantage to stop their recent losing run. Declan Flynn, Stephen Gavin, Keith Hopkins, Fintan McHale, a Brian O?Reilly hat-trick and four from the boot of Barry Redmond ensured all three points. John Gerard Loftus scored two in consolation for Crossmolina.

Volunteer Appeal:The club is appealing for volunteers to help out on Saturday evening to cater for the vast crowd expected for the Mayo v Dublin league clash.

Announcing our latest fundraiser which takes place on Sunday 7th February at 11am. The route is 2 laps of Lough Lannagh with participants meeting at Castlebar Tennis Club where there are shower and toilet facilities as well as ample parking.Registration is available on Saturday 6th February from 6-7pm in An Sportlann before the Mayo v Dublin match and in Castlebar Tennis Club from 9.30am on the Sunday morning.This event is being organised by the club as a fundraiser for the Senior Team who play in the All Ireland Semi Final on Saturday 13th February against Crossmaglen Rangers. The event is aimed at runners and walkers of all abilities and encourages family participation.Tea and refreshments will be available afterwards. Presentation of prizes will take place at 12.30pm with special prizes for those running in the club colours. Come along and enjoy the pre match atmosphere on the day.

Sports clubs send your f ixtures and results Editorial is FREE for Clubs & Sports Organisations

Charit ies and fundraising groups, send us your events dates and details.It 's FREE!

Stories, pictures and any news from around Castlebar you would like us to consider for publishing please send them to us - it 's FREE!

info@castlebareye.comor 086 065 1704

Keep an Eye on Leisure pa g e 11

Where in the World? answers page 8

Editors Photo of the month, found on the Castlebar Tidy Towns facebook Page.

Email your favourite photo to info@castlebareye.com

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to

Dealing With Colds & FluUndertheweather.ie developed by the HSE in partnership with GPs and pharmacists, offers advice

on how to get through common illnesses without antibiotics.The website gives sensible practical information on a range of common conditions like colds, flu, earaches, sore throats and tummy bugs. It tells you how long they should last, what to expect, and what you can do to cope with, and recover from, these illnesses.The site also includes a series of videos of GPs and pharmacists giving advice on dealing with common illnesses.Visit undertheweather.ie.

New dedicated mortgage arrears service from the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS)If you?re behind in your mortgage payments, you may be worried about losing your home.Talk to your lender. If you can?t ? talk to MABS.MABS now has a dedicated confidential, free, and independent mortgage arrears service.MABS is a one-stop-shop for mortgage debt advice and referral.No matter what your situation is, MABS will help you work out the next steps.Take control of what happens next.Call MABS today on 0761 07 2000 for independent information, advice and referral.

Keep an Eye on Castlebar

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094 902 3733 www.linnenhall.com

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LITERARY EVENINGColin Barrett & Ger Reidy -Readings and ConversationAuthor of the multi-award-winning short story anthology Young Skins, Colin Barrett was born in 1982 in Co. Mayo. His work has been published in The Stinging Fly and in the anthologies Sharp Sticks, Driven Nails and Town and Country.Colin is winner of the 2014 Frank O'Connor International Short Story Award, 2014 Rooney Prize for Irish Literature and 2014 Guardian First Book Award.

Thursday 11th February @ 8.00pm

WORLD CINEMA2013 Estonia/Georgia  89mins  Estonian with English subtitles Set in 1992, during the growing conflict between Georgia and Abkhazian separatists in the wake of the Soviet Union's dissolution, this compassionate tale focuses on two Estonian immigrant farmers who decide to remain in Georgia long enough to harvest their tangerine crop. When the war comes to their doorsteps, Ivo (played by legendary Estonian actor Lembit Ulfsak) takes in two wounded soldiers from opposite sides.

CONTEMPORARY GUITARPreston ReedOne of the most influential guitarists of the past quarter-century, Preston Reed invented ?integrated percussive guitar playing? in the late 1980s, revolutionising the way the acoustic guitar is played and inspiring generations of musicians around the world ever since, including many of today?s top players such as Andy McKee and Jon Gomm. Blending multi-voiced grooves, soaring melodies and polyrhythmic percussion within story-telling compositions, Reed's visionary approach fully exploits the orchestral potential of the acoustic guitar.

Thursday 25th February @ 8.00pmTuesday 16th February @ 8.00pm

Here at the Linenhall, we have a brilliant programme of theatre, music, cinema,

opera, dance, visual arts and workshops for all in our community. The Linenhall is

Mayo's oldest Arts Centre.

Relaunch of Castlebar Breast Feeding Support Group Le Cheile Community and Family resource centre Castlebar hosted the Relaunch of the Breast feeding support group last week in the Frc. This project is a joint Community Initiative between Le Cheile Frc and Public Health Nurses HSE West. A public health nurse attends the group on a weekly bases. Ann Conway Project Manager with Le Cheile FRC welcomed all the mothers, babies, Public Helath Nurse and directors of Nursing from Primary Care Team Mayo. The Breast Feeding project started in Le Cheile Frc 6 years ago and provides a important link and resource for parents. ?we provide a meeting space and advertise and update face book page weekly. We also host annual get together to celebrate breast feeding awareness month usually in October She added that ? Community Project like this works well where there is joint partner such as the Public Nurses as they provide the professional advice first hand and the network itself provides that value support of mother to mother.. The early weeks of a new mum can be exciting, overwhelming and breastfeeding can be challenging but support and network is vital. Surrounded by other moms and babies, you will gain confidence in breastfeeding. Mothers are welcome to attend during pregnancy. Christine Coll PHN with HSE west outlined that Ireland has the lowest Breastfeeding rates in Europe at present. In 2015 the Irish breastfeeding rate was 56% (The European rate was 90%). In Mayo the 2015 rate was only 47.8%. In view of this, the Public Health Nurses in the Castlebar Primary Care area have committed to try to improve the start up of breastfeeding rates and support mums to continue breastfeeding for at least 6 months and been part of this project with le Cheile Frc this is what we are hoping to achieve. The service we provide to the mums at the support group includes the following: -Encouragement to mums to continue breastfeeding -Assessment of feeding techniques and advise on same -identifying problems and finding solutions to any problems that arise -advice regarding the wellbeing of the baby eg. checking the baby?s weight and monitoring the baby?s development -reiterating the benefits of breastfeeding for both baby and mother -talking to mums about the role Dads have in caring for a breastfed baby -provide advice about expressing breast milk if required -provide information about returning to work and continuing breastfeeding -a listening ear for mums A great afternoon was had by all and refreshments was served compliments of the Frc. If you would like to attend the Breastfeeding support group it takes place every Thursday Morning from 11 am until 12.30 in Le Cheile Community and Family Resource Centre Tucker Street Castlebar or more information please contact 094 9025126. Look forward to seeing all mums and expectant mums .

Keep an Eye on Your Town pa g e 1 4

Castlebar Men's Shed is open Monday to Friday 10.30am - 4.30pm. For more info call

Bernie on (085) 152 5367

The lads started work restoring the "trap" recentlyHopefully it will be ready in time for Paddy's Day

JUST SOME OF THE FANTASTIC PIECES MADE AND AVAILABLE FOR SALE FROM THE MEN'S SHED

Naturally succulent and delicious, the striploin has been the most popular cut for steaks. The striploin is relatively lean, versatile and perfect to panfry, gril l or barbecue.

Ingredients; Serves 4 People ? 2 x Bay Leaves ? SuperValu Fresh Rosemary ? 75 ml SuperValu Olive Oil ? 4 x SuperValu Quality Irish Striploin Steak ?(200 ? 220g) ? 3 x SuperValu Whole Black Peppercorns Chunky Chips ? SuperValu Potatoes ?Maris Piper or similar ? SuperValu Whole Black Peppercorns ?to season Whiskey Marmalade Butter ? 2 tsp Irish Whiskey ? 100 g SuperValu Butter ? 1 tbsp SuperValu Marmalade

Method 1.Place the thyme, rosemary and bay leaves into a large bowl with the black peppercorns and pour in the oil and mix thoroughly to allow the flavors to infuse. 2.Place the striploin into the marinade and leave them to marinade for up to 2 hours or preferably overnight. 3.Then in a small bowl, soften some butter with a spatula then add in a spoonful of marmalade and 2 tsp of Whiskey. Combine until smooth. Store in the fridge until required. 4.Preheat the deep fat fryer to 160°C, peel the potatoes and cut thick chip size (1cm large), place in a bowl filled up with water to store until required. 5.When required, place the chunky chips on a clean kitchen towel, and pat dry the excess of water. Place the chips into the first oil. 6.Deep fry for 3 ? 5 minutes without coloration . This step helps the chips to become fluffly and cook thoroughly. 7.Remove the chips from the oil and increase the temperature of the oil to 190°C. When the oil is ready, place the chips back in the oil, and deep fry an other 4 ? 5 minutes until crisp and golden. 8.Remove the chips from the oil and place in a kitchen paper lined bowl (to absorb excess oil). 9.Meanwhile, preheat a ridged griddle pan over a medium-high heat. Brush the steaks with 1 tbsp olive oil and season to taste

with salt and pepper. 10.Sear the steaks for 2 - 3 minutes each side (for a medium finish), or longer if desired. 11.Divide the chunky chips between 4 plates, then place a steak on top. 12.Add a spoonful of the whiskey marmalade butter and allow to melt over the steak. 13.Season and serve immediately. #Goodfoodkarma Tip Cook your steak more accurately from room temperature, not straight from the fridge Take your steak out of the fridge & season 30-40 minutes before cooking.

Tommy Robinson Ltd.

Solicitors

Business DirectoryCar Sales & Service

Breaf fy Road Cast lebarCo.Mayo

094 902 3531toghertyres@ei rcom.net

Gi lvarry Sol ici tors & Associates

Employment Law, Li tegt ion Probate, Commercial Law

Uni t 9 Moneen Retai l Park Cast lebar 0949023366

info@gi lvarrysol ici tors.ie

Jewellers

Rory Quinn Jewel lersBridge St , Bal l i na

096 71744Engagement r i ngs

Wedding bands Watches, gi f t s & much more

Doctors

Emergency phone numbers 999 or 112

Mayo General Hospital (094)9021733

Tobin Health Centre(094) 9021119

Dr Michael Waldron, 2 Brooklands(094)9026411

Dr Paul Carney, Mountain View (094)9024827

Dr Stephen Patten, Thomas Street (094)9021999

Dr Alice Beirne, 11 Castlegrove (094)9024168

Dr Kay Moran, Springf ield (094)9026220

Dr Anne Long, New Antrim st (094)9024638

Dr Brid O'Malley, Station Rd(094)9035952

Dr John Gibbons, Station Rd, (094) 9035942

NOTICES

M&C Financial ServicesI nsurance, Pensions, I nvestments

Special of fers on Li fe Cover & al l your insurance needs

094 902 0677

Financial & Insurance

Mayo Window Cleaning Service

Domest ic, Commercial & Indust r ial

086 2220099i nfo@mayowwindowcleaning.ie

www.mayowindowcleaning.ie

Heating Oil

M i c h a e l R e i l l y O i l

Del iver ing t o t he Cast l ebar

& Sur r ounding Ar ea087 211 9612

Fitted Kitchens

SYMPHONY KITCHENSBarcastle Retail Park, Castlebar, Hours Mon - Fri: 09:00 -18:00

Sat: 10:00 - 17:00

094 90 26100 www.symphonykitchens.ie info@symphonykitchens.ie

Abi TaxiKeep M ayo M oving

086 8266243

Mayo Cancer Support Association Ltd,

Rock Rose House,Provides emotional support to people living with cancer, their

families and friends.All services are free of charge.

Drop in or contact 094 9038407.

T&T ClothingPrint & Embroidery

Special i stsThe Square Belmul let

sales@t tclothing.iewww.t tclothing.ie

086 065 1704

Call Lorraine 085 165 2062

www.kidsinmotion.ie

For all your motoring needs

094 902 1355Spencer Street

CastlebarCo Mayo

*Motor Factor* Petrol* Diesel

*Paint Specialists

086 4579772

GRANTS AVAILABLE UP TO ?1000 OFF

info@betterenergysolutions.ie

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Taxis Services

Cleaning Services

Knockthomas, Castlebar

Tel: 094-9021354

Professional garment cleaners

WESTSIDECarpets & Floor ing

Carpets, VinylsRugs, Timber

Floors094 90 27788

westsidecarpets@ei rcom.netN5 Business Park, Cast lebar

Carpets & Flooring

086 065 1704