Discover Duhallow Issue 116

Issue 116: 14th June, 2024

DEVASTATION OF ALL LIFE IN UPPER ALLOW RIVER

The Board and staff at IRD Duhallow are deeply disappointed to hear about the chemical spill at the Irish Water Treatment Facility in Freemount, into the Allow River. IRD Duhallow has been working alongside farmers and the wider community on this river for decades through LEADER, LIFE and EIP projects. Our Duhallow Farming for Blue Dot Catchments EIP project, recently concluded after five years of working with over 100 farmers in the Allow River Catchment. We were delighted at the end of this project to see the four waterbodies targeted, improve in Water Framework Directive status as a result of the work

carried out by Farmers and IRD Duhallow in this project. The buy- in and response from the farmers and community was laudable and an example to other Local Development Groups around the country. This chemical spill has left many, including the farm families, Angling clubs, communities and all at IRD Duhallow devasted, at the elimination of all life on this stretch of a most important and protected river, after all the good work that was done over the past decade and a half. This was totally preventable and should never have been allowed to happen. Let this be the last time.

Rockchapel Gathering Weekend

Ireland’s Fittest School

Kanturk Town Centre Improvements

I

R D D U H A L L O W

N E W M A R K E T A F T E R S C H O O L S

M M E R A M P S

1st-5th July Little Chefs and Artists

8th-12th July Nature Detectives

15th-19th July Whizz Kids

22nd-26th July Nature Camp

29th July-2nd August Little Chefs and Artists

6th-9th August Whizz Kids

m to 1pm k ed which 57 or less!

School Aged

LITTLE CHEFS AND ARTISTS CHILDREN ENJOY BAKING AND COOKING THINGS FROM START TO FINISH AND A VARIETY OF ARTS AND CRAFTS

NATURE DETECTIVES WE SPEND MAJORITY OF THE DAY OUTSIDE EXPLORING AND APPRECIATING OUR NATURAL SURROUNDINGS. ACTIVITIES INCLUDE FINDING INVERTEBRATES AND OTHER LIFE IN THE RIVER, NATURE HUNTS ETC

LACE BEFORE THEY ARE GONE! EMAIL TERSCHOOLS@IRDDUHALLOW COM

WHIZZ KIDS IS ALL ABOUT SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS AND COMPUTERS; THE CHILDREN WORK IN SMALL GROUPS TO RESEARCH AND DECIDE ON A FINAL EXPERIMENT THAT THEY WILL CARRY OUT AT THE END OF THE WEEK; THEY PREPARE A POWERPOINT PRESENTATION ON THEIR EXPERIMENT OF CHOICE AND PRESENT IT TO THE GROUP WE WILL HAVE A LITERACY TEACHER DOING ACTIVITIES WITH THE CHILDREN ALSO AND SOME TTRS (TOUCH TYPE READ SPELL) ON THE COMPUTERS. THIS CAMP WOULD BE BENEFICIAL FOR CHILDREN WITH DYSLEXIA OR READING DIFFICULTIES DUE TO THE LITERACY AND TTRS ACTIVITIES

CAMPS ARE SUITABLE FOR ALL PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN

Duhallow News

Editors Note

For all of us that are eco friendly, we start this issue in the wake of a terrible event, which was a spillage that devastated an estimated 50,000 fish along a section of the River Allow. IRD Duhallow’s Maura Walsh and Michael Twohig have expressed their reaction and concerns regarding what has happened and what will happen. It is so dissapointing given the huge effort of the farmers and the wider community in protecting the river as part of our Blue Dot Project. However, there are smiles inside this issue! Rockchapel gathered together for a rocking weekend, Ballyhass has some active students and friend of the magazine, Kevin O’Connor returns with an interview with local cycling legend, Dan Curtin. And Rachel Budd invites you to attend IRD Duhallow’s Annual Open day on June 20th! -Tadhg

Want to send us something? The next issue of Discover Duhallow releases on June 28th!

Email: Discoverduhallow@irdduhallow.com Phone: 029-60633

Facebook: Discover Duhallow Magazine Instagram: Discoverduhallowmag

Tureencahill Bridge Club Champions Crowned

in President’s Prize Tournament!

Betty O Sullivan (center) President Tureencahill Bridge Club , presents her President’s Prize to the winners Therese O Leary and Susan O Connor.

Betty O Sullivan President Tureencahill Bridge Club presents her President’s Prize to the runners up Mary Buckley and Sheila Corkery

Mary Moynihan receives third prize on behalf of herself and her partner Claire O Sullivan from Betty O’ Sullivan at the recent Tureencahill President’s prize bridge tournament.

Emilia and David Jakubowski Millstreet enjoying the beautiful bluebells at the Station Road Pitch in Millstreet.

“Northern Lights on Clara Mountaintop”; a stunning photo taken by John Kelleher

Sheila O’Connor, Margaret Fitzgerald, Agnes Walsh, and Ellen Casey enjoyed the cuisine and desserts at DCFS Newmarket recently.

Louise Bourke IRD Duhallow Skillnet with Eoghan McCarthy, Eddie McCarthy and David Conran from Ballyhass Lakes and graduates from the recent Outdoor Activity Instructor Programme.

Kanturk Afc End Of Season Awards For Their U8, U9, U10, U11 Teams

Thank you to all the team managers, coaches who gave up their time to mentor the teams. Thank you to the players & parents for their commitment. Thank you to Ducon concrete the club sponsor. We look forward to seeing you all back in the new season. Enjoy the summer break.

Thank you to the Cork City FC Women Seniors Colleen Kennedy O Connell, and Jaydine Seward, Eoin Kelly and Josh Cooney who visited Kanturk AFC this evening. A great evening training, fun, photos, and autographs

Kanturk Town Centre Improvements To Come

Cllr Bernard Moynihan was joined by Michael Lynch, Patricia Liddy, and Kevin Morey, to launch the Town Centre Initiative in Kanturk. The initiative is one for towns of all sizes that aims to support growth and improvement while acknowledging the uniqueness and diversity of individual township needs.

Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys said of the initiative:

“This is all about tackling vacancy, combating, dereliction, and breathe new life into our town centres. Through this initiative, we are recognising the importance of having vibrant towns, places to live in, work in, visit, and raise a family in.”

Towns are acknowledged as being key social, recreational, and cultural hubs, and creating viable spaces that encourage

participation, enjoyment, and longevity in residents is vital to their survival.

Initial Collaboration and Communication Phase June

• Public surveys (online and in library)

• Establishing a town team

• Collecting and collating data July

• Spatial and technical survey

• Procurement of consultants

• Progress report to all stake holders

Carriganima, Co Cork

Available for Hire:

1,3,5, ton Mini Diggers

Rockbreakers

Micro tracked dumpers

1,3,6, ton Swivel Dumpers

2,4, ton Vibrating Rollers

17 metre Articulated Boom Hoist

Laser levels & wacker plates

WE

Do you need help with reading, writing, spelling and numeracy?

Do you know someone that needs help?

If so, we can help

Monday - Thursday 9 30am - 1 30pm Friday 9am – 12 00pm

Pictured with Cllr. Bernard Moynihan, Cork County Council staff Michael Lynch, Divisional Manager South Cork, Patricia Liddy, Director of Services MDORD, and Kevin Morey, Divisional Manager North Cork

Duhallow News

Ballyhass Ireland’s Fittest School

Ballyhass NS celebrated an outstanding achievement as they secured second place in the Fyffes ‘Ireland’s Fittest School’ Final. The pupils’ journey began in January with the Fyffes Fit Squad Challenge, committing to 15 minutes of exercise every morning, involving the entire school community.

This dedication propelled Ballyhass to the top four schools on the leaderboard, earning them a spot in the final held at Sports Campus Ireland on Friday, May 24th. Eight children represented the school, competing in various races and events, showcasing their fitness and teamwork. The teachers also joined in the excitement, participating in a relay race. The event was further highlighted by the presence of Irish athletes and Olympians Phil Healy and David Gillick, who led the competition and inspired the young participants with their enthusiasm and support.

Pupils from Ballyhass NS with teacher Tracey Cremin receiving a 2nd place trophy and a cheque for €1000.

Annemarie, Clodagh and Garven Queeney

Laurence O Donoghue, Cormac Cronin, Finn Quinlivan and Mark Cronin getting some tips from athlete David Gillick.

Ed and Maisy O'Donoghue with David Gillick

Ballyhass teachers and pupils with Fyffes Ambassador and team mentor Phil Healy.

Caitríona Hickey, Michelle Gayer, Máire McKenna and Tracey Cremin pictured with Fyffes ambassador Phil Healy after winning their teacher’s relay race.

Tracey Cremin, Cormac Cronin, Mark Cronin, Phil Healy, Finn Quinlivan, Laurence O’Donoghue, Lucy Browne, Des Gayer, Clodagh Queeney, and Dean O'Sullivan

Máire McKenna, Caitríona Hickey, Phil Healy, Lucy Browne, Dean O'Sullivan and Clodagh Queeney

Proud supporters from Ballyhass NS

Olympian Athlete Phil Healy was joined by:

Above: Michelle and Des Gayer

Top Left: Lucy and Lauren Browne

Bottom Left: Clodagh Queeney and Des Gayer

Gig Guide

What’s On In Duhallow

Edel Quinn Hall, Kanturk

Monday

Foróige

7.30-9pm

Ages of 12-17yrs. Time: Every Friday Morning 10:30am-12:00am

Wednesday

Taekwondo

6-8pm

All Welcome!

Kanturk Fitness Classes

Venue: USA stores, Greenane Street, Kanturk

Mondays

9.30am: Beginners Fitness

6pm: Boxercise

Tuesday

9am: Legs, Bums, and Tums

6pm: Dance Fitness

Wednesday

6pm: Dance Fitness

Friday

9.30am: Circuits

€10 pay as you go or 6 classes for €50

Message Deirdre O’Sullivan or text 087 9273672 for details/ bookings.

Newmarket

Knitting and Crochet Group

Venue: CYMS Hall, Newmarket

Time: Every Friday Morning 10:30am-12:00am

The groups chosen charity is providing blankets to The Blankets of Hope Cork. Further Information from Rita 086209745

Scoil Lasair 2024

Venue: An Chultúrlann Newmarket

Date: 22nd-26th July

A fun and active summer camp through Irish for primary school children from 1st to 6th class. Sports, music, art, dance and much more!

Price: 1st child €100

2nd child €90

3rd child €80

4th child €75

Attention Walkers

Wednesday 19th June

Meeting at Shrone Church at 6.45pm sharp to tackle the first leg of the Duhallow Way. This section is on a boggy area so walking boots are essential. Usual tea and coffee afterwards. Registration essential.

Call 029 60633 or WhatsApp 086 0849955

CYMS Hall Dancing

Venue: CYMS Hall Newmarket, P52 V596

Admission: €10

Time: 9:00 - 11:30pm

Organised by John Joe Dances 087 9735113

Fundraising Dance in aid of CYMS Newmarket

June

Friday 14th

Michael Collins Band

Friday 21st

Superstar Attraction Jack Keogh Band

Friday 28th

Neily O’Connor Band

Freemount Social Dancing

Venue: Freemount Community Center, P56 P893

Admission: €10

Time: Sundays 3:00pm-5:30pm

June

Sunday 16th

Declan Aungier

Sunday 23rd

Paudie Coffey

Sunday 30th

Checkers

Mushera Platform Dance

Venue: Mushera

Time: Monday 24th June, St.

John’s Night 8:30pm-10:30pm

No cover charge. Music by The Lee Sound. Raffle with lovely prizes

Enquires to 086 064 7381

Summer Bridge

Venue: Tureencahill Community Centre, P51 T66349

Time: Wednesdays at 1pm

Friendly, non-competitive, enjoy a cup of tea!

For more info, contact 087 647 6536

All welcome!

Tureencahill Community Centre’s 10th Anniversary

Venue: Tureencahill Community Centre, Gneeveguilla, Rathmore, Co. Kerry, P51T663

Join us for three wonderful events from June 14th to June 16th to mark the 10th anniversary of Tureencahill Community Centre.

Friday, June 14th: Barna Bog Project Launch. Join “Storied Kerry Tureencahill” as we present the history and impact of Bord na Móna’s establishment of the turf cutting industry at Barna bog in the late 1940s. The evening will feature a book launch, video interviews with locals associated with Barna, musical performances, and refreshments. Admission is free, and we encourage all who have connections to Barna to attend! Booking is essential please contact 087 913 8807 / 085 174 1551

Saturday, June 15th: Family Bingo Night! With up to €1,000 in prizes, this is a fun event for all ages. Try your luck and maybe you’ll win big.

Sunday, June 16th: Enjoy a delicious two-course lunch served by Denis Doody Kingdom Catering, followed by music from The Kelts to dance the evening away. Please note that booking is essential for lunch. Contact us at 087 9924821 or 085 8771949 to reserve your spot.

Local Meetup for Remote Employees

Friday 21st June

2.30pm The White Raven, Rathmore

Free coffee when you register online.

Hosted by Denis McCrohan: 087 7530072

Gig Guide

Countdown to Dromtarriffe GAA Club Moveathan!

Dromtarriffe GAA Club are running their 24hr Moveathan once again on June 14th. All monies raised will go directly to Dromtarriffe GAA. For more information on the event, visit their website or follow them on Facebook.

Kanturk Flower and Garden Club Annual Outing

Date: 16th June

Visit three private gardens in Cork.

• Knock House Garden Coachford. An artful creation as seen in Irish Garden Magazine

• Margaret Ahern’s Garden in Aherla

• Curraghbeg Nursery designed by Dominic Cullinane

• Beechwood garden.

• Three course evening meal in Glanmire

Booking essential. Contact Bridget on 087 9086904 or Marie at The Sports Shop Kanturk.

Donoughmore Welcome Historical Book

By NOLLAIG MURPHY Development officer, IRD Duhallow

On Friday the 24th of May the community hall in Donoughmore was brim-full of energy and vitality. The occasion was the launch by the Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr. Kieran McCarthy of a new publication Land War to Civil War 1900-1924: Donoughmore to Cork and Beyond by Gerard O’ Rourke. The Lord Mayor in a wide-ranging address said that the publication was very impressive at over 100,000 words and one would go far and wide to find a book so detailed. Cllr. Michael Looney deputizing for the County Mayor, also spoke thanking the author for bringing history to the people and more importantly preserving the record.

The author thanked the invited guests and everyone who helped in a great community effort, explaining:

“This book takes us through one of the most turbulent periods in Irish History. Cork at the turn of the century was very much part of the British Empire and when King Edward visited Cork in 1903 it was not rebel flags that flew in the city but Union Jack flags. Gradually, a reawakening of Irish nationalism notably the emergence of the GAA, Gaelic League, and a literary revival energized and transformed the Irish people. National independence was driven by a constitutional process with Irish MPs fighting the cause in the British Houses of Parliament”.

“During the War of Independence, Donoughmore and the greater district became international news with the executions of Mrs Lindsay, Major Compton Smith and the aftermath of the Dripsey Ambush when five volunteers were executed, and one died from wounds received. These fatalities were debated on

the floor of the British parliament and became headlines across the international press. The tremendous contribution of women to the war is epitomized by the Wallace sisters from Kilcullen who from humble beginnings on an evicted farm in Kilcullen fronted a little stationery shop neat St Augustine’s Church in Cork that concealed what was the official headquarters of the Cork No 1 IRA Brigade”.

One person who was remembered specifically on the night was Mr. O’Rourke’s late wife Tricia. Mr. O’Rourke said “This night is bittersweet as we are missing one very dear person, my wife Tricia. She was an inspiration for this production and wanted it to be published and it is fitting that it is now a tribute and legacy to her memory. €15 of each copy sold will be donated to cancer care services in Cork and this is a legacy to her kindness and concern for other

people. It is somewhat ironic when one reflects that this book about war and suffering is now a catalyst for promoting healing”. Proceedings finished with the Lord Mayor singing out the evening with a rendition of Smile

A limited number of the books are available at the offices of IRD Duhallow at the James O’Keeffe Institute Newmarket to purchase along with an array of other outlets, please contact Nollaig Murphy on 029-60633. For Queries, please contact: gerorour@gmail.com

The author Gereard O’ Rourke (centre) with members of his late wife’s family. From left front is Michael Looney Deputy County Mayor and Cllr. Kieran McCarthy Lord Mayor of Cork.

Duhallow News

Rockchapel Gathering Weekend Delivers

By SEAN LYONS

The inaugural Rockchapel Gathering Weekend, held from June 7th to June 9th, 2024, has concluded with resounding success, leaving attendees with cherished memories and a deep sense of community spirit. The weekend’s diverse array of activities, music, and entertainment drew large crowds, fulfilling its promise to provide something for everyone.

The festivities began on Friday night, June 7th, with a spectacular concert at Bruach na Carraige. Ella Marie Dwyer, accompanied by Conor Lenihan and members of Freemount Comhaltas set the tone for the weekend with their mesmerizing performances, even a power outage didn’t stop the show!! The evening’s vibrant atmosphere continued into the night with lively pub music sessions at Murphy’s Bar and Paddy Molly’s Bar, where musicians entertained enthusiastic patrons.

Saturday, June 8th, kicked off with a “Community Cuppa” coffee morning at Bruach na Carraige, featuring delightful music by Jim Kiely and Henry Keogh. A huge

thank you to all who supplied home baking for the event. The day continued with a Kids Music Session at Paddy Molly’s Bar, providing an interactive and fun experience for the younger attendees. Following this, Eibhlín and Liam Broderick led a Singing Session that captivated audiences with traditional melodies.

The excitement peaked on Saturday evening at the Community Centre with the selection of the Mayor of Rockchapel. The candidates—John Walsh, Ita Geaney, Neily Curtin, and Eileen O Mahony—each brought their unique charm to the sold out event, but it was Ita Geaney who was ultimately crowned Mayor of Rockchapel amid much applause and celebration.

Sunday, June 9th, began with a trad mass at the church, featuring the harmonious voices of the Rockchapel Choir. This was followed by a bustling Craft Fair in the Church yard, showcasing over 20 stalls with local crafts, food trucks, and a biodiversity demonstration. Families enjoyed a variety of activities, including a Tractor Run through the village, face painting, balloon modelling, and live entertainment by Sheila Fitzgerald, creating a vibrant,

family-friendly atmosphere. The weekend’s highlight was the free open-air concert on Sunday evening. Fuinneamh, a five-piece band, enchanted the audience with their mix of traditional music and song, while No Strings Attached kept the crowd dancing late into the night with a mix of modern and classic hits. The final night also saw continued pub music sessions at Murphy’s Bar and Paddy Molly’s Bar, wrapping up the weekend on a high note.

Chairman Patrick Browne expressed his gratitude to all who attended and supported the event. “The Rockchapel Gathering Weekend has truly been a celebration of our community spirit. All the committee are thrilled with the turnout and the joy this event has brought to so many in the community,” he said. The success of the Rockchapel Gathering Weekend has set a strong foundation for future events, ensuring it will become a cherished annual tradition. The committee would like to thank anyone who helped out in anyway and everyone that came to the Rockchapel Gathering Weekend. We look forward to The Rockchapel Gathering Weekend 2025!!!!

Ita Geaney first official duty as mayor was to start the tractor run

Delivers Unforgettable Inaugural Event

Eileen Mahoney and campaign manager Marty Tom Murphy

Sarah O’Keeffe

The cast of rockchapel nursing home sketch

Eibhlin Broderick

Ellemarie O’Dwyer and Conor Linehan in concert on the Friday night at Bruach Na Carraige

Group of young musicians from Freemount Comhaltas who performed in Ellemarie O’Dwyers concert

Conor Lane

Fr. Stritch announcing Ita Geaney as the new mayor of Rockchapel 2024

The gathering committee Nora Curtin Triona Carroll Sean Allen Sean Lyons Ita Geaney (2024 mayor) Sarah McNulty Brendan Cahill Louise Curtin and Patrick Browne

Eimear Curtin and Sinead Guiney

Denise Quinlan, Jerome Murphy and Sarah Donoghue

Kathleen Collins and Tom O'Callaghan, Monagea, formerly Rockchapel.

New Mayor Ita Geaney

Thoughtful and Creative Father’s Day Gift Ideas

Father’s day is a special occasion to celebrate and honour the dads in our lives. Whether you’re looking for a thoughtful gift for your own father, a new dad, or a father figure there are plenty of options to consider. Here are some unique Father’s Day gift ideas that your dad will appreciate.

1. Personalized Gifts:

• Custom T-Shirts:

• Create a personalized T-shirt with a memorable photo or meaningful message.

• Engraved Jewelry:

• A bracelet, necklace or keychain with his initials or special date.

• Photo Prints:

• Turn a cherished family photo into wall art or a keepsake.

2. Food and Drink:

• Gourmet Food Hampers:

• Curate a hamper with his favourite snacks, chocolates and beverages.

• Coffee Subscription:

• Gift him a monthly coffee delivery from a specialty roaster.

• Whiskey or Craft Beer Set:

• Choose a high-quality bottle or selection of unique beers.

3. Experiences:

• Cooking Class:

• If he enjoys cooking, sign him up for a cooking workshop.

• Concert or Sports Tickets:

• Get him tickets to his favourite band or sports event.

4. Tech Gadgets:

• Wireless Earbuds: Upgrade his audio experience with quality earbuds.

• Smart Home Devices:

• Consider a smart speaker or a home security camera.

5. Outdoor gear:

• Grilling Accessories: High quality grill tools, smoker boxes, or grill mats.

• Camping Gear: A durable tent, camping cookware or a portable hammock.

6. Books and Subscriptions:

• Bestseller Books: Choose a book in his favourite genre.

• Magazine Subscriptions:

• Subscribe to a magazine related to his interests.

7. DIY Gifts:

• Homemade Baking:

• Bake cookies as a sweet gesture.

• Scrabble Tile Message Frames: Spell out a heartfelt message using scrabble tiles. Remember, the best gift is one that reflects his personality, interests, and the special bond you share. Happy Father’s Day!

Castlemagner Native Nominated for Paris Olympics

Horse Sport Ireland has announced the horse and rider combinations nominated for consideration by the Olympic Federation of Ireland to represent the Irish team in show jumping at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Here are the athletes and their equine partners:

1. Daniel Coyle (Co. Derry) riding Legacy, owned by Ariel Grange.

2. Cian O’Connor (Co. Kildare) riding Maurice, owned by Keira Stoute, Sarah Stoute, and Cian O’Connor.

3. Shane Sweetnam (Co. Cork) riding James Kann Cruz (an Irish Sport Horse), owned by Gizmo Partners LLC.

Shane

Sweetnam, the talented Irish show jumper, hails from Castlemagner, County Cork. His nomination for the Paris Olympics is a source of immense pride for the local community. As a successful equestrian athlete, Shane’s achievements inspire young riders and showcase the rich equestrian heritage of Duhallow.

These talented riders and their horses will give it their all to make Ireland proud at the Paris Olympics!

Shane Sweetnam and his Irish Sport Horse James Kann Cruz

Duhallow News

We All Love Our Four-Legged Friends

By ALICE O’BRIEN

Alice O’Brien Counselling, Newmarket

After a long and detailed search, lasting many years, I have finally found a suitable companion. He is kind and loyal. He is very affectionate. He is very energetic and, like myself, he loves the outdoors. We have enjoyed lots of lovely walks together in the Island Wood. He occasionally has a bout of peeing in inappropriate places but I’ve discussed that issue with him. His name is Bruno, and he is a Border Collie. We are a match made in heaven and I didn’t ever need to join any online dating agencies to meet him - we met on a farm.

Owning a pet is a big

commitment. You need to be ready to put in the time and the energy and be ready to have them as part of your family for many years. And you need to be ready to bag a lot of poo. But the mental health benefits of owning a pet are far greater than the drawbacks. Some of these benefits include: An increase in your physical activity. More dog walks mean more steps and there is nothing more motivating than the puppy dog eyes.

• When you come home from a long day’s work, it is likely that the family are very busy. You will be met with a queue of questions, demands and grunts. But not the dog, the dog is always glad to see you

and will greet you like you are the most important person in his world.

• Having a pet is a great way to ease the burden of loneliness. They are great company, they are loyal and the purpose of looking after someone else leaves little time for thinking about yourself.

• There are many research based studies that show that dogs reduce stress, anxiety and depression. The introduction of therapy dogs in various settings is proof of that.

So, if you are considering a pet, it is definitely worth factoring in the benefits an extra bit of affection can bring to your life and who doesn’t need a bit more of that.

Cracking Down on Joint Pain

Joint pain can have many causes. In those over 50 the most common cause is osteoarthritis, which is caused by the cartilage inside a joint wearing away leading to changes in the bone in the joint. The cartilage can also be damaged by repetitive wear from sports or your work. Doctors recommend that people who are affected by osteoarthritis pay attention to their lifestyle, make healthy food choices and exercise regularly. Gentle movement and exercise like Tai Chi can be very effective. We have regular Tai Chi classes at New Leaf, contact Irene Ryan on 086 8272042 for information on

upcoming classes.

People with high blood pressure or high cholesterol can be more susceptible to joint pain. Managing your diet and reducing, or getting help to deal with stress, can also help reduce joint pain.

Studies have found Curcumin to be an effective natural treatment for joint pain. It has antiinflammatory and pain relieving properties. Curminol contains naturally high Omega 3 EPA Fish oil with a clinically studied blend of Curcumin C3, Ginger, Boswellia, Collagen II, Vitamin C and Vitamin D3 for natural joint support. Curcumin supplements might not be suitable to use with prescription medications and blood thinners so check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are on medications

Boswellia is another of the ingredients in Curminol, has also been found to have antiinflammatory effects and studies have investigated its benefits for osteoarthritis. The studies appear to show that Boswellia supplements can suppress pain quite significantly even within a week of taking it.

Lyprinol is one of the best natural sources of omega-3 in the diet, because it contains additional lipids, unique to the Green Lipped Mussel – it’s like fish oil but much better. It’s been found to be 100 times more potent than leading max EPA Fish oils. Lyprinol Joint support is tasteless and safe with no known side effects and has no known drug interactions, even with Warfarin. It’s a very safe and effective supplement.

By MAIREAD O’KEEFFE New Leaf Health Store

Kevin Interviews Local Legend Dan Curtin

By KEVIN O’CONNOR

Special Olympian 2003 & 2023 & 2023 Person of the Month

When you were young did you always want to be a cyclist?

Yes, I did.

How did you get involved in competing?

I was friendly with Mick Duggan and Connie Moylan and a few more. They were the elders in cycling in Kanturk at the time. I was asked would I go cycling and I said yes.

How did you set up the a club in Kanturk?

I felt that the youth needed to get involved in cycling. Any young person I saw with a bike, I asked them to get involved in cycling. And I got back on the bike myself again! Was it easy to get members was there interest in cycling?

No, not easy to get youth involved

at the time. Once we got started, the interest grew, as we were winning.

When did you begin competing in events?

1968, I was a bit old. Is there a lot of training? How many times a week?

Club training is 3 evenings a week in summer. 1 morning on a Sunday in winter.

Who sets up the stages for competing?

It’s a group effort, Joan Curtin does entries and results, club members Sarah, Pat, Angela and Nicholas Tarrant get the course ready. Dan and Pat manage the night stages…..

Do you travel a lot to compete? Yes, all over the world. Spain, France, Austria, Belgium, UK, Italy, South Africa. We’ve also travelled the length and breadth of Ireland…100 times! What is the biggest competition

you have taken part in?

Club wise - World championships, Paralympics, Olympics and Youth Olympics. For myself- the famous Rás.

Are Eddie Dunbar and Sam Bennett your most successful cyclists?

Yes. However, the club has produced 5 professional riders. Archie Ryan, Josie Knight, Eddie Dunbar, Sam Bennett, and Dillon Corkery. No other cycling club in Ireland has had that many professionals.

Thrilling Stage 2 of Rás Tailteann Unfolds

Stage 2 of the Rás Tailteann international cycle race kicked off at 10am on the 23rd of May and took the riders from Kanturk to Sneem over a distance of 183.8KM.

The stage was won by Conn McDunphy, an Irish man riding as part of the USA Skyline-CADENCE team with Liam O’Brien from Team Ireland in second. George Peden from UK Team PB Performance finished third with Dillon Corkery from Team Ireland finishing fourth for the second consecutive day.

Chairman Pat.

Ronan Tuomey, Arnaud Dumoulin, Padraig O’Sullivan, Ben Murphy, and Sean Tarrant, Pictured here with Team Manager Dan Curtin, mechanic Keith, and Club

Discover the Magic: IRD Duhallow’s Annual Open Day on June 20th!

By RACHEL BUDD Horticulturist with IRD Duhallow

Spring has finally turned the corner into summer, and at long last the crops are in the ground. The 2024 season is proving tricky so far, but we seem to be saying that every year, so perhaps we need to accept it, and just get on with it.

We will be showcasing the gardens here at IRD Duhallow at our annual open day on Thursday 20th June including our new 60 ft polytunnel which is filling up with tomatoes, salads, and squashes.

We are delighted this year to welcome 2 guest speakers, renowned organic grower and author Klaus Laitenberger and Kath White from Fine Oaks Alpacas who will be bringing some of her alpacas and giving a talk on the care of these amazing animals. Klaus Laitenberger is the author of four vegetable gardening books. He was the Head Gardener at the Organic Centre in Co. Leitrim and restored the gardens of Lissadell House in Co. Sligo.

Together with his wife, Joanna, he started a seed company, specialising in the most suited vegetable varieties for the Irish climate, as well as the most resistant and delicious ones. Klaus is a regular contributor to the BBC Gardener’s Corner and to various gardening magazines eg. The Irish Garden, Irish Independent and Irish Examiner. He also works as an organic advisor and runs gardening courses throughout the country.

FineOaks Alpacas was established to provide people with the opportunity to personally experience these intriguing and charming animals for themselves. The alpacas actively participate in various therapeutic and well-being

programs, educational visits to schools, visits to residential care homes, staff well-being initiatives in corporate settings, external family days, and even weddings.

We are looking forward to a great fun and informative day in the garden so don’t miss out, put this date in your diary.

Open Day

Thursday 20th

June

11 am to 3pm

Everyone welcome

Klaus Laitenberger, organic gardener

Kath White from Fine Oaks Alpacas

June - Month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

By TOM DENNEHY

We associate the month of June with the Sacred Heart of Jesus. During this month, we celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi, the Feast of the Sacred Heart and many other notable feast days such as those of St. Anthony, St. John the Baptist, The Irish Martyrs, St. John Fisher, Thomas Moore, the Immaculate Heart of Mary and many more.

St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, a French nun, revealed to the world the great love of Jesus for us. She had a series of apparitions between 1673 and 1675 when He appeared to her from the Blessed Sacrament and said,”Behold this Heart which loves so much and yet, is loved so little in return.” He explained that the thorns around His Heart are symbolic of the pain that He suffers because of the ingratitude and indifference of people towards His love in the Blessed Sacrament. Then, Jesus said that He suffers more now because of this indifference and ingratitude than He did during his entire Passion.

He appealed to her to make up for all their ingratitude by spending time with Him in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and told her, “I thirst with such a terrible thirst to be loved by you in this Most Blessed Sacrament”.

We know that the more one loves, the more one wants to be with the object of one’s affection. This explains the very mystery of our Catholic faith, the mystery of the Real Presence. Jesus stays with us day and night in the Blessed Sacrament simply because He loves each of us so much that He never wants to leave us.

This is why Jesus specifically requested, through St. Margaret

Mary, that a feast in honour of His Sacred Heart be established in the Liturgical Calendar within the octave, eight days, of the feast of Corpus Christi. He wanted to make it unmistakably clear that devotion to His Sacred Heart is devotion to the Blessed Sacrament. The Blessed Sacrament is Jesus living in our midst today.

His appeal to St. Margaret Mary is more urgent today than it was then. “I thirst with such a terrible thirst to be loved in this most Blessed Sacrament.” His message is that the Eucharist is not a thing, but a person, the person of Jesus Himself. In the Blessed Sacrament, He said we would find the most loving of all fathers, our very best friend, with the tenderest of all hearts.

During this month of the Sacred Heart, let us contemplate the loving Heart of Jesus which suffered so much for us. Let us spend time in Adoration and attend Holy Mass and receive the Holy Eucharist. It is the living Heart of Jesus we receive in the Holy Mass. So many Eucharistic Miracles have been scientifically tested and have been proven to be the living Heart of Jesus.

As we contemplate His incredible love, we reflect on the mercy, compassion and love that God has bestowed upon us. We come to know the love of Christ which surpasses all knowledge. When we allow Christ to live in our hearts, when we know his love deeply in our minds and hearts, we are moved by The Holy Spirit to live the great commandments of love of God and neighbour. We are motivated by the Sacred Heart of Jesus to open our hearts to Him so that they are filled with love for our brothers and sisters. In this way we learn to live the commandment of Jesus; love one another as I

have loved you.

The Church, born from the pierced heart of Jesus, has a great mission in the world to proclaim the redeeming love of God in Christ.

The Sacred Heart of Jesus is precisely the image that expresses our mission. It is the image of the infinite and merciful love which the Heavenly Father has poured out upon the world through his son Jesus. Only this love, the love of the Heart of Christ, can transform the human heart and bring true peace to our world.

Let us restore true devotion to His most Sacred Heart by returning to Holy Mass and volunteering to spend one hour per week in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. Let us respond to the plea of Jesus to Saint Margaret Mary, “Would you at least make amends for their indifference by spending time with me”

Let us pray often; Sacred Heart of Jesus, we place all our trust in thee. May the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised, glorified, loved and adored throughout the world now and forever more. Amen

Pupils in Meelin N.S. who received their first holy communion recently. Pictured with Father Stritch and their Principal, Moira O’Connor, teacher Julie Flynn, and SNA, Breda Costello

Friends and family of the late Ned Tarrant joined The Ned Tarrant Memorial Tractor Run committee in Healy’s Bar, Kilcorney recently, to present a cheque made out to the Irish Guide Dogs for the blind. The 2024 run managed to raise 9000 in total which was a great achievement in spite of the broken weather. Well done to the fantastic committee for organising the event as well as everyone involved!

Mind, Body and Woodworking!

A wonderful morning was had in the James O’Keeffe institute recently as IRD Duhallow hosted an event entitled Back to the future. It was a collection of talks discussing mental and physical health culminating in special guest: woodworker and social media personality, Eoghan Reardon showcasing his unique woodworking skills These skills

have amassed Eoghan many followers and views through the social media platforms, TikTok, and Youtube. Kicking off proceedings was Clodagh Reidy of Nutritionally True, discussing the importance of what we put into our bodies for fuel. Claudia Escobar of Ganapati School of Yoga put our minds at ease with her yoga skills and methods of relaxing, as well as

exercising the mind and body. Susan Murphy of Wellness Warrior Coaching kicked us into gear with her physical training. A diverse and enjoyable array of talks and demonstrations. Thanks to everyone who joined us!

Words and photos by Tadhg Curtin

Speakers at the Back to the Future morning: Clodagh Reidy - Nutritionally True, Susan Kelly Murphy - Wellness Warrior Coaching, Claudia Escobar - Ganapati School Yoga and Eoghan Reardon - Woodworker and social media personality.

Denis O’Shea and Pat Murphy with some of Eoghan’s woodworking tools.

Eoghan with members of the Kanturk Men’s Shed Joan Buckley, Christine O’Shea, and Nora Mary O’Riordan

Helen Cranitch, Helena O’Callaghan, Ann Crowley Jonathan O’Callaghan, Marian Barrett and Siobhan Kiely.

Crossword sponsored by Duhallow Community Food Services

Across

1. Moment (7)

4. Graphic (5)

7. Steps (5)

9. Love story (7)

10. Gives up (6)

11. Topics (6)

15. Nutritionist (9)

17. Nearly (6)

19. Movie genre (6)

22. Transport system (7)

24. Dye (5)

25. At a subsequent time (5)

26. Recite (7)

Down

1. State indirectly (5)

2. Accomplish (7)

3. Limited period of time (4)

4. Vitality (3)

5. Animal toxin (5)

6. Chest of drawers (7)

8. Sorrow (7)

12. Monstrous (7)

13. Fuel (3)

14. Angry dispute (7)

16. Paradise (7)

18. Slightly wet (5)

20. Scope (5)

21. Song of praise (4)

23. Armed conflict (3)

Solution: Issue 115 MAY 31st, 2024

To

Complete the crossword and post with your name and contact details to:

Discover Duhallow Puzzle Competition, James O’Keeffe Institute Newmarket, Co. Cork

Or simply scan completed puzzle or take a snap with your phone email to discoverduhallow@irdduhallow.com

Terms & Conditions:

Deadline for submissions is noon on Friday, JUNE 21st 2024.

First correct entry drawn will win a €20 voucher, valid for three months from date of issue, to be redeemed for food at the Duhallow Community Food Services. No cash alternative. Winner will be named in subsequent issue of Discover Duhallow. One entry per person. No correspondence will be entered into. Voucher to be collected from Duhallow Community Food Services, Newmarket. WINNER

Congratulations to Eileen Nolan, Araglen House, Boherbue who wins a €20 voucher for Duhallow Community Food Services!

Torres Sangre De Toro 75cl, Campo Viejo Tempranillo 75cl, Campo Viejo Winemakers Blend

Torres Viña Sol 75cl