7 minute read
Community News
Songs Of The Heart in Castlemagner
On October 31st, Castlemagner Community Centre will be the setting for a special fundraising concert featuring the talented Cork musicians Patrick O’Sullivan and his son Conor. This highly anticipated event will raise funds for a unique recording project that has brought together a group of senior citizens who share a passion for music and connection. The project has led to the creation of an album titled Songs Of The Heart, celebrating the joy of togetherness through song.
The project itself was born out of a singing class led by singing coach and teacher Marie Twomey, whose dedication and passion for nurturing voices has helped transform social singing classes into a professional recording project. Marie’s class became a tight-knit community where seniors not only found their voices but rediscovered the joy of gathering, sharing, and connecting with one another.
“The energy in the room when we all sing together is magical,” said one of the participants. “It’s not just about the music—it’s about being part of something bigger, part of a family.”
The album, Songs Of The Heart, is a carefully curated collection of beloved songs, including timeless numbers like “Hurry Hurry Home Love,” Phil Coulter’s emotionally charged “Steal Away,” and the Irish favourite “Far Away In Australia.” Many of the songs reflect the shared memories, emotions, and life experiences of the group members, with many more surprises to be revealed upon the album’s official release.
Behind the scenes, the music has been carefully arranged and produced by Neil Moylan, ensuring a polished, high-quality sound that captures the heart of the project. The drumming and percussion on the album are provided by Michael Tobin, adding richness, finesse and depth to each track.
The fundraising concert on October 31st promises to be a night of top-class entertainment, where Cork Musician Patrick O’Sullivan will bring his trademark blend of traditional and contemporary Irish music to the stage. Doors open at 7:30 pm, with the concert beginning promptly at 8:00 pm. Tickets are priced at €20 and are available from any member of the Sinsir Club or by contacting 0868521808. With limited availability, early purchase is advised to avoid disappointment.
In addition to Patrick O’Sullivan’s performance, attendees can look forward to refreshments served, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the community. The sit-down concert offers a chance not only to enjoy a night of live music but to support an incredibly meaningful project that has brought so much joy and connection to local seniors.
The funds raised from this concert will go directly toward completing the recording of Songs Of The Heart, enabling the group to finish their project and prepare for its official launch later this year. While the project has largely been communitydriven, it has also benefited from the seal of approval of Cork County Council and Creative Ireland, helping make this dream a reality.
“This project is about more than just making an album,” said Marie Twomey, “It’s about bringing people together, building friendships, fostering positive mental health and creating something that will last.”
The upcoming concert, and indeed the entire album project, is a shining example of how music can bridge generations, foster community, and create lasting memories. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this incredible journey by attending the concert on October 31st. With Patrick O’Sullivan leading a night of unforgettable entertainment, it’s sure to be an evening filled with music, laughter, and a deep sense of togetherness.
Tickets are selling quickly, so be sure to secure yours soon and join the celebration of music, community, and friendship!
Culture Night
Castlemagner will celebrate Culture Night in the Community Centre at 8.00 pm Friday night, September 20th, by showing a locally produced documentary on the history of the parish. Admission is free. Everyone is welcome.
Boherbue Welcomes New Nail Tech
Nails Studio by Irina has opened for business!
Irina Haiduk performs classic manicures, shellac, gel polish, pedicures, extensions and more! Her focus is on safe and high quality procedures, so far, she has made waves!
Visit her Facebook page - Nails Studio By Irina - to see examples of her work. Best of luck to Irina in her business!
Road Works To Commence on N72
Transport Infrastructure Ireland have approved the appointment of a contractor to commence works on the Meenskeha (Cullen to Clonbanin) pavement improvement scheme.
These works are much anticipated, and aim to be in progress within the next number of weeks.
Poulgorm Banteer Water Outage
Another water outage occurred on Thurs 22nd Aug in Banteer and last week also with areas with no water for a number of hours. The Community Council have now received a response from Irish Water re a plan to be implemented and this will be reviewed and responded to and published.
Congratulations to our 2024 SMK Scholarship winners, Sophie O' Donovan, Aoife Aherne, Adrian Collins and Victoria Holvey-Black. Each student received a Chromebook worth €400, which they will use throughout their time in SMK. Details of the 2025 Enrolment Challenge will be available in local Primary Schools in the coming weeks. Sophie, Aoife and Adrian are pictured here with Mr. Denis Keating (Principal) and Mr. Rickie O' Keeffe (ICT Co-Ordinator)
Wedding Anniversary Mass
When; Sunday October 20th 11.30a.m
Where; St Joseph’s Church Rathmore.
This celebration is for couples who are living in our parish, or were married in the parish celebrating a significant Wedding Anniversary this year e.g., 25th, 30th, 40th, 50th, or 60th. These milestones provide an opportunity for a husband and wife to commemorate the day they decided to make their loving commitment, and to celebrate their shared journey down through the years. It is also a wonderful opportunity for family to honour the couple, and give thanks for all the blessings they have received. Although every year of a successful marriage is a cause for celebration, some years serve as key milestones. We also welcome couples who are married more than 60 years to join in our celebration
At this Mass you will be invited to renew your marriage vows and to have this special occasion honoured by all in the Parish Community.
You might kindly contact the Parish Office with the details of your Wedding Anniversary. You can also notify us by phoning the Parish Office 064 7761669 or email rathmore@dioceseofkerry.ie
The Fire Rises
Cast members of the Banteer Drama Group: Tadhg Curtin, Eimear Roche, Martin Riordan, and Cathy Bailey(front), ahead of the group’s upcoming performance of Seán O’Deadaigh’s House Ablaze.
Directed by Tadhg O’Keeffe, the story is set during the Irish Civil war. It follows former Cumann na mBan member Cáit Browne, who now works as a maid for retired English Major Graham Fitzgerald and his wife Elizabeth in their lavish house. When IRA Captain, Seán O’Brien arrives unexpectedly one night, Cáit is surprised by the return of her old flame. However, he intends to not only reignite one flame but start another…
Performances will be on the 20th, 22nd, 27th and 28th of September at 8pm, The Glen Theatre Banteer. To book tickets, phone 029 56239.
Home Boys Home
Norah Hickey has released the video for her new single Home Boys Home. With the help of Niall O’Brian as editor, Norah captures the longing for home with scenic views of the country paired with nautical adventuring. Watch now on Youtube.
