Discover Duhallow Issue 90

STAY SAFE THIS SUMMER: P12&13

BANTEER MAKES HISTORY

Dillon brings home the Rás Cup

Dillon Corkery of Banteer made history at the Rás Tailteann Cycle Race. In the 70 years since it began, Cork has never brought the cup, but

Dillon changed all that.

Dillon was honoured by Banteer with a victory parade in their sportsfield. Fans and friends throughout Duhallow have shared their pride in his feat on social media, with Kanturk Credit Union sharing a wonderful photo.

At the parade, Dillon dedicated the win to his late uncle John Mulcahy.

JOB VACANCIES

Powerwasher Technician x 1

Servicing Powerwashers

Full training provided

Experienced or Trainee Agri Parts Counter person x 1:

Interest in Agri machinery

Good team player

Motivated to learn the trade

Full training provided

Competitive Salary for the right person

Next Steps

·CV to sales@technix.ie

Editors Note

We were wondering in the office why the weather was so nice - definitely not complaining! - and we realised that Duhallow students have graced us once more with Leaving Cert weather!

While we joke, it’s important to remember that exam results do not define you, and the points won’t confine you. Stepping stones exist. Take care of yourselves, and good luck!

-Caleb

Community News

PERSON OF THE MONTH - MARCH

We are delighted to announce the May winner of Kanturk and District Community Council and Cherry blossom Childcare Person of the month award is ANN KELLER.

Ann is a long serving scout leader in Kanturk and has seen many children through the scouts years and everyone of them were and still are very well spoken of Ann. She has always a smile on her face for them and words of encouragement and good advice when needed. This also goes for all the leaders when their in need of a bit of help ,she won’t leave them down. An extremely popular scouter and a very deserving and worthy winner. Congratulations Ann, Our May Person of the Month Award Winner.

To nominate someone for next month, boxes and forms are available throughout Kanturk:

• Twohig’s Supervalu

• Burton’s Topline and Euronics Store

• Kanturk Credit Union

• O’Riordan’s Daybreak

Kanturk

• Kanturk Post Office

• Photoshop Kanturk

• Burke’s Home Value

• Lidl Kanturk,

• Spar Kanturk

• Kanturk Library

Achievements Throughout Duhallow

Well done to Abbie Herlihy, Knocknagree, who won the Special Achievements Award in The West Cork Garda Youth Awards on the 26th of May. The Awards were held in the West Cork Hotel, Skibbereen, and were sponsored by Supervalu.

Presentation to Nellie Foley who won the Kiskeam Development Association & Kiskeam GAA Lotto Arthur Murphy, seller of winning ticket, David Curtin, Chairperson Kiskeam Development Association & Billy Dennehy, Chairperson Kiskeam GAA

Lauren O’ Connor from Newmarket with coach Michael Herlihy, North Cork AC, with her County Gold U11 Long Jump medal from the recent Cork County Athletic Championships.

Castlemagner Sinsir Club

Castlemagner Sinsir Club left no stone unturned at their Bealtaine Evening Cabaret Concert for the Duhallow Day Of The Region Bealtaine festival. The evening featured talent groups of the young and not so young from across the region. Performing to a packed house, the programme included recent champion performers from the Castlemagner Strictly Come Dancing GAA event. This well established annual talent event welcomed singing groups from

Millstreet and Tureencahill along with the Castlemagner group.

One particular act featured four world class harpists on stage. Beneath green and emerald lighting, these young virtuoso artists gave a rendition of an enchanting, emotional, gentle and ageless Irish medley, captivating the audience, weaving a spell of musical mystique over the balmy twilight of the Bealtaine evening, evoking the music of the great halls and castles of Ireland from

the mists of ages.

The fully attended banquet, cabaret-style event, where the audience were seated at candlelit tables was complete with a Bealtaine fire. This fundraiser for Castlemagner Sinsir Club celebrated the unique contribution senior citizens make to our communities, offering a forum to showcase talent, promoting in particular music and singing for well-being and mental health.

ABOVE: Four Local Harpists Perform at Castlemagner Sinsir Club’s Bealtaine Evening Cabaret

LEFT: Rachel Lyons, Kaleb and Thiha O'Sullivan performing at the Castlemagner Sinsir Club Bealtaine Evening Cabaret

Mecca Barrett performing at the Castlemagner Bealtaine Cabaret

Members of the Castlemagner singing group with singing instructor Marie Twomey at the Castlemagner Bealtaine evening cabaret

Over two days in the James O’Keeffe Institute, a question was asked between the IRD staff with great frequency; “hmm what’s cooking?” The pleasing aromas wafted throughout the building, courtesy of the Air Fryer Slow Cooker course which ran in conjunction with the Bealtaine festival. Here you can see those who attended under the tutelage of Chef Francois Conradie.

OH MOST SACRED HEART OF JESUS,

In the past I have asked for this special favours (here mention request). Take it, dear Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart, where Your Father sees it. Then, in His merciful eyes it will become Your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and the favour will be granted, no matter how impossible Amen.

Photos by Tadhg Curtin

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

Knocknagree Community SPINATHON Fundraiser

Saturday June 3rd 10am to 10pm

The Fairfield in Knocknagree

Knocknagree Community Development Group CLG are holding a SPINATHON Fundraiser on Saturday June 3rd from 10am to 10pm in the Fairfield to raise funds for the refurbishment of the Community Hall.

If you would like to donate some funds, donations can be made online on both Social Media Platforms, Facebook and Instagram.

Donations can also be given on the day or speak directly to: Noreen: 0876270806 Mairead: 0876427520.

Community News

Rathmore Mass Times

Friday 2nd June: Mass in St. Mary’s Cemetery at 7.30pm

Sunday 11th June: Corpus Christi Procession after 11.30 am.

Tuesday 13th June: Mass in Drishane Cemetery at 7.30pm.

Thursday 15th June: Mass in Cullen Cemetery at 7.30pm

All Ireland Rosary Rally

Knock

Saturday 3rd June, 1pm

Tureencahill Community Group FAMILY BINGO!!

Saturday June 3rd 7pm to 9pm The Marquee, Tureencahill. €1,000 in prize money. Your support would be greatly appreciated.

Tureencahill Community Group ANNUAL SUMMER B-B-Q

Sunday June 4th 1pm

Tickets: Adults €20

National School Children €10 Under 5’s Free Phone 087 0576107 087 9924821

Dromtarriffe GAA

The weekend of 16th and 17th of June, Dromtarriffe GAA will be holding a 24hr fundraiser for the club grounds in Rathcoole. Members are selling lines for €5, and the day will be full of activity! Be sure to join them! See their Social Media for more info.

Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock, Saturday 26th August 2023. Bus from Rathmore leaving at 7am. Forms available in the church for anyone interested in travelling by bus. These forms must be returned to Rathmore Parish Office.

Killaha Graveyard Mass

The annual Killaha Graveyard Mass will take place on Monday 12th June at 7.30pm.

Duhallow Gig Guide

Bruach na Carraige

Sunday June 4th 8pm

Separate Beds

The group will then finish out the 2022-2023 season by holding their AGM on Monday, June 12th at 8pm in the Glen Theatre Banteer. New members always welcome.

Laharn Cross Dancing

Sunday 4th June 8pm - 10pm

Pat Daly

Sunday 11th June 8pm - 10pm

Peter Lane and Blackwater Sound Kanturk Mart

Saturday 24th June 8pm

Concert in aid of Marymount Hospice.

Includes an animal auction for the cause.

Join the Reunion! The Fitzgerald’s Clan over will be hosting their reunion at the Star Trax Music Venue in Knocknagree on June 4th.

Tractor Run Success

A tractor run was held on Sunday last in Rockchapel in memory of Jerh Stack former postman of the area for Cancer Connect and Marymount Hospice. There was a very big attendance on a nice fine day, the run was around the route that Jerh would have taken as a post man doing his daily rounds with the post. The run was led by some of Jerh’s colleagues from An Post in their Post vans.

Photos by Neily and Michael Curtin. LEFT:

An aerial view of the GAA field before take off

Laura, Katelyn, and Nicole Carroll ready for take off

William T Murphy driving his David Brown on his 80th birthday on the tractor run

Billy Brown and Patrick Stack are enjoying some of the older tractors that were there

The late Jerh Stack

Mike Allen on his Massey Ferguson 35

Geraldine Curtin, Dora Stack, Mary Lyons and Eilish Quinlan enjoy the cuppa afterwards

Joan Keogh, Chris Bailey and Eily Mai Hickey help out the refreshments afterwards

Pat McBride and his daughter wrapped up for the day!

Norma Murphy and Catriona Callaghan take part

Well done to Millstreet Vintage Club - their April tractor run raised an incredible €1918.40 for the Millstreet Day Care Centre.

Jack’s Mystery Tour was a huge success! The group travelled to O’Tuama Farm in Macroom, Clonakility Blackpudding Visitor Centre, the Distillery Model Railway in Clonakilty, and had lunch in The Auld Triangle, Macroom.

LEFT: Participants in the SICAP funded IRD Duhallow Literacy classes celebrate their excellent work by collecting their trophies and certificates at their awards night. Also pictured are course co-ordinator Brighid Ide Walsh and tutors Eimear Guiney, Sinead Guiney, Eimear Boyce and Nollaig Murphy.

RIGHT: Brothers Dillon and Ryan O’Sullivan graduate IRD Duhallow’s TTRS Touch Type Read and Spell course, pictured here with their tutors Nollaig Murphy and Sinead Guiney.

Bees Vs Wasps

By EDDIE WALSH Duhallow Beekeepers Association

The honeybee swarming season is upon us again and it will last until the end of July.

Honeybees swarm when the numbers in the colony grow to such an extent that there is no longer room left in the hive or perhaps the tree or wherever the bees decide to nest.

When people see bees swarming, they get alarmed and immediately think that they are going to get stung. However this is seldom the case as the bees are more preoccupied in finding a new dwelling place. When swarming, they are at their calmest and most docile.

Beekeepers are always interested in capturing swarms, particularly in May and early June when the swarm consists of large numbers Beginners in bee keeping are particularly interested in swarms as the swarm provides an introduction to beekeeping for them. We have sixteen new beekeepers attending our course in IRD this spring and summer. If you happen to come across a

Bee or wasp? Wasps (right) have a clear segmented body with a much smaller mid section. Their yellow is vibrant as a warning to predators. Bees (left) are more plump and have more defined stripes.

swarm in your backyard or garden, contact your local beekeeper or IRD Duhallow on 02960633. Please try to distinguish between honeybees and wasps as beekeepers have no interest in travelling long distances only to discover a colony of wasps. Wasps are more yellow in colour than honeybees. Honeybees usually will hang from a tree branch or shrub in your garden. Unfortunately honeybees will decide at times to go into a persons house under the eaves or soffit. It is the strict policy of Duhallow Beekeepers Association not to do to attempt taking a swarm where the structure

of a house has to be interfered with in any way.

Swarms are harder to tell the difference; Bee swarms are docile and will be more focused on finding a home. Our yellow jacket wasps nest in holes and dense vegetation. Pay attention to the colour and body difference for identification.

A Wasp Hive. Beekeepers are unable to help with wasp infestations. Be sure to know the difference between wasps and bees.

Banteer Runs on Community Spirit

The Mt Hillary Athletic Club is filled with immense gratitude as we celebrate the incredible success of the 5-mile race held in Banteer on Sunday 14th of May. This event would not have been possible without the dedication and efforts of countless individuals and organizations who have selflessly contributed their time, resources, and expertise. On behalf of the organising committee, we would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you.

First and foremost, we would like to express our deepest appreciation to our main sponsor, Tarrants Skoda Dealer. Your generous support has played a pivotal role in making this event a resounding triumph.

We would also like to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of our other sponsors:

Fitness Solutions, Mallow, Kanturk Credit Union, EPS, Mallow, Johnny Flynn Radiators, Twohigs Supervalu, Kanturk, Lidl Kanturk, Spar, Kanturk, Murphy’s Gala, Murphy’s Bakery, and Fota Island Resort. Your financial support and belief in the mission of this race helped us provide a memorable experience for all participants.

Behind the scenes, our race director, Liam Murphy, demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication.

Liam’s meticulous planning, attention to detail, and passion for organising this race have been truly inspiring.

To our stewards and helpers, who worked tirelessly throughout the day, ensuring the safety and smooth running of the race, we owe you a debt of gratitude. Thank you for your invaluable contributions.

Lastly, but certainly not least, we want to express our sincere appreciation to the Banteer Tidy Towns. Your unwavering commitment to keeping our

village tidy and beautiful created a welcoming atmosphere for all participants and visitors.

In conclusion, our Banteer 5 Mile Road Race has been a resounding success, and it would not have been possible without the support and contributions of the local community, club members and runners everywhere. Thank you all for your unwavering support, dedication, and belief in the power of community spirit.

Our running club, Mt Hillary AC is very inclusive and always welcoming of new members. We meet every Tuesday & Thursday at 7.15pm at the Hurling Wall in the Banteer Community Sport’s Field. Why not join us?

Summer Safety

We Always Say “It Won’t Happen To

Summer is here and as with every Irish summer, there’s no sign of how long

Beach Water Safety

• Note the location of the closest ring buoy

• Ensure you’re experienced or have someone experienced with you.

• Know the tides - check the weather and tide times before going near the water

• Always tell others when you’re heading into the water

• Enter the water slowly to acclimate

• Pay attention to signs and orders from life guards.

• Swim in designated, guarded walkways and beaches, between flags where possible.

• Swim parallel to the shore.

• In unfamiliar aquatic settings, ask advice of locals and lifeguards.

• Wear suitable clothing.

• Never enter the water at night or when it’s getting close to dark.

• Never swim when hot or tired.

• Never swim in quarries, ESB reservoirs, or tailraces.

• Do not swim out after anything drifting.

Cold Water Immersion

• Sudden immersion in cold water increases the risk of drowning, even if the water is calm and you know how to swim.

• The cold shock response causes loss of breathing control, possible dizziness, and panic.

• Past this part, there is also risk of hypothermia and muscle cooling, which makes swimming difficult or impossible.

• If you fall into cool water, try to stay calm and relax.

• Float or tread water and get as much of yourself out of the water as possible.

3 in 10 people who drown have consumed alcohol before going into the water

• Do not use inflatable toys in open water.

• Never jump or dive in case of hidden hazards.

• Never drink and swim

Beach Walking Safety

• Coastal walks can lead to stranding because of tides. Avoid walking on sandbanks, keep kids a safe distance from the edges of rivers, canals, and inland waterways.

• Keep an eye on the tide and the time, and stay away from the edge.

• Always carry a mobile phone.

• Keep your lets together and elbows by your side to reduce loss of heat.

Rip Currents

To escape a rip current sweeping you out to sea, remain calm, and swim parallel to shore until free.

Summer Safety

To Me”; So Did Those It Happened To.

We can get a bit over excited once the mercury hits the double digits, but haste makes waste. together tips to help you have a safe summer.

Care in Extreme heat

• Extreme heat can cause exhaustion, heat stroke, or aggravate existing conditions.

• Limit time in the sun between 11am and 3pm

• Stay hydrated.

Signs of Heat Stroke.

- Confusion, altered mental status, slurred speech.

- Heat cramps.

- Nausea and Vomiting

- Loss of consciousness

- Hot, dry skin or profuse sweating.

- Seizures.

- Very high body temperature.

- Fatal if treatment delayed.

Summer Safety

• Put on sunscreen - 30+ SPF for Adults and 50+ for children. Reapply regularly.

• Suncream alone will not protect you - shade and clothing are important.

• Wear clothes that don’t allow sunlight through

• Wide brimmed hats help protect face, ears, and neck.

• Seek shade.

• Wear sunglasses with UV protection.

• Check your medication to see if it affects your heat tolerance.

• Stay hydrated.

2 INCHES

• If you’re Hard of Hearing, deaf, or speech impaired, register for the Emergency Call Answering Service 112 Text service.

Signs of Heat Stroke in Animals

• Animals are just as susceptible to heat stroke.

• Watch for:

- Heavy panting and difficulty breathing.

- Excessively drooling.

- Lethargic, drowsy or uncoordinated.

- Collapsing

- Vomiting.

- Dry or sticky gums.

Dehydration can lead to tiredness, drymouth, confusion, lightheadedness, and headaches, and in particularly hot weather, the risk ramps up, especially as we lose fluids through sweat.

Drink a cup of water every hour in hot weather, and 1 cup every 15-20 minutes when working in the heat.

2 litres of water is the recommended amount per day.

is all the water needed to drown

Wellbeing Mentoring Programme Launched At Scoil Mhuire Kanturk

Scoil Mhuire Kanturk is going leaps and bounds over and above caring for the wellbeing of their students with the introduction of a Wellbeing Mentoring Programme and Wellbeing courses within the curriculum.

Scoil Mhuire Kanturk (SMK) has a history of offering an effective pastoral care system, building a supportive and nurturing environment crucial for the overall well-being and development of its students. Despite this the COVID-19 pandemic brought new challenges not just through the disruption to education but in having a significant impact on the overall wellbeing of children. Children have experienced increased levels of stress, anxiety, depression and isolation due to the

pandemic. This Wellbeing Mentoring Programme identifies Transition Year students to be trained as Senior Cycle Mentors. These students are then matched based on a number of carefully considered factors with an incoming First Year student in August.

Transitioning to a new school can be an exciting yet challenging experience. The mentors have a crucial role in supporting and guiding the new students through this process ensuring their life at SMK will be as enjoyable as possible. The Programme is facilitated by Belinda Murphy, the Personal Development

Teacher at SMK and former past pupil. Belinda has worked closely with the school management to ensure First Year students feel welcomed in an approach which puts wellbeing and the personal needs of the students at the core of their transition to post-primary school.

In a statement, Belinda Murphy said;

“being a first year is such a big transition for these students. The go from being a big fish in a small pond to a small fish in a big pond. So many worries and anxieties are very natural to experience however with this Wellbeing Mentoring Programme, the first year students will have a designated mentor to help out and support them with this transition.”

Transition Year students were picked based on their natural innate mentoring traits including kindness, empathy, compassion, leadership and ability to think

independently and they have received immersive mentoring training on teachable mentoring skills.

The programme continues in September with an ongoing support structure put in place to ensure the mentors are supported by Belinda Murphy, Guidance

Scoil Mhuire Update

Counsellor, Deputy Principal and Principal of SMK. This support is paramount to ensuring the success of the programme as each mentor is a point of contact for the first year student, their issues, their questions, their anxieties. The Deputy Principal, Andrew McNamara added “The vision of Scoil Mhuire is “to be a modern, inclusive and nurturing school where each student is empowered with the knowledge and skills for their future endeavours” and as such the wellbeing of the students in our care has always been at the core of what we do.

Nurturing young adults can be challenging, however ensuring this post COVID can be even

more so. Through this Mentoring Programme and Wellbeing Curricular courses facilitated by Belinda and the teachers of SMK we are putting the supports and skills in place to ensure our students can navigate these challenges developing healthy coping mechanisms, building resilience, and improving their overall emotional well-being.” This Wellbeing Mentoring Programme is seen as another proactive initiative by SMK in the wellbeing of students which also includes incorporating Wellbeing and Mindfulness in the Junior, Transition and Senior cycle programmes, Meditation classes at lunch time and Wellbeing Workshops as an intrinsic part of Induction Day for all years. Life has changed radically for us all post Covid and SMK recognises the impact on the mental and emotional health of their students and have now stepped up in providing more support in a tangible manner for the future generations.

For more information on School Wellness Programme, contact belinda@belindamurphy.com, Facebook and Instagram @ belindamurphywellness. For enquiries to Scoil Mhuire Kanturk, www.scoilmhuirekanturk.ie, call 029 50807.

Scoil Mhuire Sports Day

Scoil Mhuire held its annual Sports Day, started in 2009, where students compete at 100m, 300m, 3,000m, relay, shot put, javelin, high jump and tug of war. Mr. Keating presented prizes at the end of year whole school assembly.

Bonus Sports News from Scoil

The transition year students in conjunction with Horse Racing Ireland and Agri Aware called 'From Foal To Race' has been awarded second place. The runner-up prize goes to Danielle O'Connor, Rachel Morton and Sarah Archdeacon. The ladies put in excellent work throughout the programme and documented their efforts through a video presentation. They interviewed racehorse trainer Michael Winters, fundraised for the Injured Jockeys Association and disseminated their learnings to the whole school. Well done to the ladies! They have won family passes to Fethard Horse Country Experience.

Junior boys 3,000m: D. Keating (principal) Kris Martinkus, Ben Harte

Junior tug of war: D. Keating (principal) Emmett O’Shea, Jonatan Skubisz, Liam O’Mahony, Duan Lensley, Holly O’Dea, Clodagh O’Keeffe, Kate Healy, Lucy O’Connell

Senior girls 3,000m: D. Keating (principal) Amy Green Linehan, Grainne O’Sullivan, Marit Landau

Senior Tug of war: D. Keating (principal) Rebecca Harms, Ellen Rainsford, Elio Noreno, Federica Serra, Ben Fehan, Ryan Healy, Ryan O’Dwyer

Mhuire

Junior girls 3,000m photo: Kate Healy, Clodagh O’Brien, Megan Winters

The Last Days of School

By ALICE O’BRIEN Churchview Therapies, Millstreet

We put a lot of effort and sentiment into sending our children to school for the first time. We plan for months, we take lovely photos, and we send them off in a shiny new uniform, their eyes full of wonderment and an innocent nature that will never be matched. They skip off with excitement, ready for a whole new world, while we watch on in hope that this world will be kind to them. Just are there are firsts, there are lasts- that’s how the world turns. Do we think much about their last day of school? The day they leave for school for the last time?

uniform well-worn and innocence long since lost? They will no longer be skipping, more like dragging themselves to the finish line. Many years pass under the bridge of life between their days in junior infants and their leaving cert year. Many arguments over homework, many school tours, many lost copy-books and broken pencils. But, in all that time, one thing doesn’t change and that’s our view of them. The adult you look at on the last day is a reflection of that lovely innocent little 5 year old on that first September day. As they prepare to leave the nest and fly on their own, we should feel very proud. We have prepared them for this, filled them with the confidence and self-belief to

soar. But, we may feel a loss, a reluctance to embrace this new and wonderful world they seek. After-all, our identity has changed now. We are no longer needed to taxi them around, arranging our schedule around them. Having time for ourselves is a good thing, we just need to adjust to it. But we can enjoy their last days as much as we enjoyed their firsts if we allow ourselves to. We can watch them share their hopes, their plans and their anticipation for the whole new world that awaits them. So, stop focusing on the exams, the points, the results. Focus on the now. Show them that the world is theirs for the taking.

The Mother of All Cider Vinegar

By MAIREAD O’KEEFFE New Leaf Health Store

At New Leaf we have recently started stocking Gilbert Murphy Premium Raw Cider Vinegar which is made locally in Kilfinane in the foothills of the Ballyhoura Mountains. This amazing Apple Cider Vinegar is made from 100% undiluted Irish apple juice which undergoes a double fermentation process. This produces enzymes and beneficial microbes known as “The Mother”. The Mother often looks like a cloudy residue at the bottom of the bottle but don’t be put off - cider vinegar which doesn’t have any residue at

the bottom has had the mother filtered out.

We are also now stocking Gilbert Murphy Premium Raw Cider Vinegar blended with Honey It’s a great new product for the many customers who used to get “Honegar” from us before it was discontinued.

Cider vinegar is delicious in cooking and in preserves, and historically it has also been used for its healthsomeness - for example for weight management, joint health, and digestive health. There has been a lot of research into its potential to improve the health and to balance blood sugars, however the results are inconclusive, and there aren’t any authorised health claims for Cider Vinegar in the EU. That said, honey and vinegar are both rich sources of vitamins and minerals. For instance, vitamin C exists in honey, while vinegar contains

vitamin B-12 and vitamin K. Both cider vinegar and honey contain several antioxidants.

Many people like to drink Cider Vinegar diluted as a refreshing morning tonic whilst other people use it as an ingredient in their cooking. Your dishes will be improved by using this excellent premium product, you really can taste the difference.

Gilbert Murphy Apple Cider Vinegar and Honey makes a fabulous cucumber salad, or try making a sweet and sour honeygarlic glaze on your meat, fish, or vegetables when you are barbecuing. Make some colourful devilled eggs for your next picnic or just make a simple vinaigrette dressing for your summer salads that tastes amazing.

Congratulations Seésta Competition Winner Jackie Gilligan!

Holistic Health Hub

about Holistic Health or maybe you have already dipped your toe in the water or maybe you are already a big fan, then this will be a lovely energy space to share.

This is an initial gathering to ascertain if there is an appetite for more events like this. Your support is much appreciated if more Wellness events are to be held in this area.

Belinda Murphy is based in Liscarroll and already has held Body and Soul events and training days in The Cultúrlann, Newmarket, Co. Cork with much interest and success.

Tickets are €20 and available on Eventbrite.ie or email belinda@ belindamurphy.com to get access to the link.

Holistic Health Hub will be launched on Saturday 17th June from 11am to 1pm in The Culturlann, Newmarket, Co. Cork by Belinda Murphy Wellness. This is a space to find out what Holistic Health is all about and how could it be of benefit to us in our every day lives.

“Mental Health”, “holistic”, “mindfulness”, “meditation”...these terms have become assimilated into our normal vocabulary, but do we really understand what they mean? Maybe we are afraid to ask exactly what they mean and if there is any relevance to us?

This Holistic Health Hub is a gathering of people interested to learn more about what Holistic Health is all about. This is a safe space to ask questions and to listen to others with similar experiences.

The first hour is a talk by Belinda Murphy Wellness who is a Holistic Health and Reiki Master Teacher. Belinda teaches Reiki, creates and delivers School Wellness and Workplace

Wellness Programmes and also hosts Holistic Retreats. Check out @belindamurphywellness on Facebook and Instagram and www.belindamurphy.com.

The second part of the gathering is learning some basic breathing techniques to help with anxiety, stress and other imbalances. There will also be an introduction to meditation as a flavour for how it feels and of course time for a cup of tea or coffee afterwards.

So, if you fancy a morning with like-minded people curious

Tickets can also be purchased on the door on the day.

Belinda Murphy Wellness hosts Soul Retreats that support personal journeys while the group energy leaves attendees relaxed and enlightened.

Final Twomey Memorial

in suicide awareness. This campaign has extended to Gardaí, and her efforts have gained her the president’s award from the European network of traffic police, Tispol, in recognition of her contributions.

As impressive as this is, what’s more is her display of grace and faith as she forgave Malek. It took work, about which she is very open. This transparency inspires such belief in the grieving process and that healing is possible.

June 10th and 11th this year marks the final Twomey Family Memorial. The event has run for the last 10 years around the time of the family’s tragedy.

In Summery of 2012, Elber Twomey, her husband Con and her child, affectionately referred to as Baba Oisín made the decision to go on holiday to Devon. At 5 months pregnant with “Little Lady”, Elber didn’t want to fly, but the ferry was a wonderful break. They enjoyed a carefree 6 days, including a day with cousin Sean Twomey.

On July 6th, the 7th day, tragedy struck.

Suicidal driver Malek

Wojciechowski had left a 4 page suicide letter that led to a police chase. During this chase, he swerved and hit the family’s car. The crash killed Oisín and sent Con and Elber to hospital. Sadly, Con passed 10 months later because of his injuries, and Elber lost Little Lady.

In the years since, Elber has done incredible work. She has raised road safety awareness, campaigned for suicide prevention and understanding, and as of 2019, because of her hard work, all control room staff at Devon and Cornwall Police are trained

Cousin Sean Twomey is just as inspired. He has never had a chance to join the memorials, but as the final event comes closer, he has opted for a show of support to the cause and to the hospital that did so much to help Elber. Sean will climb the Shinner Steps in Brixton. Over 200 times. This 45,000 step endeavour will match the height of Mount Everest in distance and will be done in a pirate costume. This 10th and final memorial weekend will be two days - 10th and 11th June - and will have something for everyone. From a 50k cycle, a 5k timed run to a quiz and a family walk. Since the accident Elber has raised upwards of a whopping €175,000 for charity, and this final event

will be an incredible cap on such a journey of awareness, remembrance, and healing. Check their Facebook page to join them for a great weekend. Meelin is sure to be a hub of activity!

And remember; life is precious.

Brixham’s Shinners Steps

Funding for Family and Voluntary Carers in Duhallow

By STEPHANIE MOYNIHAN

As part of National Carers Week 2023, IRD Duhallow is delighted to announce the new IRD Duhallow Dormant Accounts Programme 2023-2024 with a celebratory coffee morning on Saturday 10th of June from 10am-12.30pm.

Are you a Family Carer or Voluntary Carer? Perhaps your child has additional needs, which may include cognitive difficulties, physical or sensory difficulties, emotional and behavioural difficulties, and difficulties with speech and language.

Or maybe you are caring for an elderly relative or friend in your or their own home? We would love for you to join, take away important learnings from our seminars, talks and workshops and most importantly feel support by likeminded carers in Duhallow. This programme is here to support you and your family.

We are very proud of the achievements of previous Dormant Account programmes for Carers in 2016, 2018 and 2021, which have proven extremely beneficial for local carers in the region.

The Dormant Account programme seeks to empower Carers by providing them with the knowledge and information relevant to their needs and

situation along with developing and expanding our existing support network for carers in the region which would overall help to improve the quality of life of both the carer, the family as a whole and the person being cared for.

IRD Duhallow is delighted to deliver this programme for you and all offerings have been designed with you and your needs in mind. Please feel free to reach out to us, if you are uncertain if these courses are for you. We would be delighted to hear from you.

We are particularly excited that this Dormant Accounts Programme once again has a focus on supporting and improving employment and self-employment opportunities for Carers. IRD Duhallow will be running an exciting array of courses,

workshops and information sessions on topics including Mental Health & Wellbeing, Effective Communication & Resilience, CV & Interview Skills as well as Personal Development.

You may be looking for employment while caring for a loved one or perhaps you are looking to enter the workforce after caring duties ceased or were reduced.

Dates for training are currently being finalised and will be published in the coming weeks. Keep an eye out on our website www.irdduhallow.com/events, our Facebook page, Newsletter and Discover Duhallow magazine. For further details, contact Stephanie Moynihan on 02960633

Celebration of carers at the Carer’s Coffee morning earlier in 2023

Employment, training, and social inclusion coordinator Triona Dennehy and Development officer Stephanie Moynihan

The Youth Of Today: The Future Of Our Continent

Under the 2014 to 2020 LEADER programme a Youth Needs Analysis for Duhallow and the expanded Duhallow area was formally undertaken. This research report was launched in July 2021 and represented one of the most extensive in-depth studies undertaken among young people in rural Ireland. Looking at the experiences of school aged teenagers right up to young adults in the 18 to 35 age cohort, the surveys undertaken gave the younger people of Duhallow a platform to express their view, concerns and hopes. Addressing issues ranging from housing to infrastructure this study showed that those aged 18 to 35 exhibit a strong sense of place and a commitment to their home communities in Duhallow – regardless of where they currently live. At present, IRD Duhallow are currently planning to set up a youth forum for younger people in the Duhallow area, this is a very positive measure in supporting the younger population of the region. From freedom to travel and live in Europe to opportunities to study under Erasmus+ there have been notable openings for the youth of EU. Under the Communicating Europe Initiative Cian Sheehan submitted his views in relation to youth.

By CIAN SHEEHAN

Europe. The word itself, those six letters in print, conjures countless images and ideas in my mind, a kaleidoscope of culture, experiences, creativity and freedom. As an Irish 19 year old, the privilege I have of being a citizen of both my home nation and the European Union as a

whole will forever be incalculable. However, while being aware of my privileges, I’m also aware of the struggles we face together as a continent. Climate change, the refugee crisis, crippling poverty, rising housing costs and the war in Ukraine are just a fraction of the issues we face as a united front in the future. Yet politicians continue to ignore us young

people, the future of this continent, the ones who are going to be dealing with these situations and tackling them head on. From Greta Thunberg poignantly addressing the worldwide climate and environmental crisis to young people here in Ireland protesting against the unbearably high rental prices, it truly begs the question; will they ever listen?

EU 50: E, U, AND ME

By FLORRIE MURPHY

Maurice Clancy used to say, “we were all born fifty years too soon”. My mother who would have been in her 90th year now told me that growing up. On the 1st of January 1973, we joined the common market, now the EU. It was the same year I started secondary school in Boherbue Comprehensive School. We have made a lot of progress in that time; this was a completely new school for our locality. As first years it was decided we would take all the subjects the school had to offer which included French, Latin, music, art, metal work, woodwork, and technical graphics. Ireland of the 1970s was a growing country with a lot of large families, and not

a lot of jobs. The prized positions were a teacher, nurse, garda, or the civil service.

I believe the EU did very well for Ireland as we were an island country, dominated by England and depending on trade from and to them. Brexit has thought us a hard lesson on why it is important not to rely on one country for our produce. With an expanding population of over 447 million, Europe offers great business opportunities. The EU opened European markets and we export our dairy products to almost every country in Europe, not just our cheese our meat is some of the best in the EU. It is

much easier to trade as we share the same currency. The Euro was initially hard to get used to, but it has opened many doors. We can now compare prices in other European countries, and we can travel without changing our money.

I believe that we are in for a bright future as Europeans.

Florrie Murphy with her uncle, friend of Discover Duhallow; Br. Malachy Buckley.

June - Month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

By TOM DENNEHY

We associate the month of June with the Heart of Jesus. During this month, we celebrate the Feast of the Sacred Heart on June 16th.

The Feast of the Sacred Heart is celebrated on the Friday following the Feast of Corpus Christi. 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 so little loved 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 His priests and 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”.

Jesus promised, during the apparitions, the following blessings to those who practise devotion to the Sacred Heart.

1. I will give them all the graces necessary for their state of life.

2. I will give peace to their families.

3. I will console them in their troubles.

4. I will be their refuge in life and especially in death.

5. I will abundantly bless all their undertakings.

6. Sinners shall find in my Heart the source and infinite ocean of mercy, tepid souls shall become fervent and fervent souls shall

rise speedily to great perfection.

7. I will bless those places where in the image of My Sacred Heart shall be exposed and venerated and people who practise this devotion shall have their names eternally written in my Heart.

8. I will give to priests the power to touch the most hardened hearts.

9.Those who receive Communion on the First Fridays, for nine consecutive months, will not die without receiving the sacraments and my Heart will be their refuge in the last hour.

During this month of the Sacred Heart, let us contemplate the loving Heart of Jesus which suffered so much for us as we spend time in Adoration and attending 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. A world which bases its

principles on wealth, power, force, science, or pleasure is not Christian.

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 the world.

On the 13th March 1873, the bishops and priests of the Irish Church consecrated themselves and their flocks to the special love and worship of The Sacred Heart of Jesus. We were the first country in the world to do so. Celebrations of 1500 years of consecration took place in some parishes around the country.

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”.

Sacred Heart of Jesus we place all our trust in thee.

Across

1. Entrust (7)

5. Small thin biscuit (5)

8. Dissonance (5)

9. Projecting upper floor (7)

10. The sheltered side (7)

12. Unvarnished (5)

13. Scheme (6)

15. Become visible (6)

18. Flowed back (5)

19. Athlete (7)

21. Hinged window blind (7)

22. Slight push (5)

23. Two or more contesting groups (5)

24. Striking (7)

Down

1. Tapers (7)

2. Inexperienced (5)

3. Frozen water (3)

4. Personify (6)

5. Decorative covering (9)

6. Photographic film (7)

7. Synthetic silk-like fabric (5)

11. Short accounts of incidents (9)

14. Quashed (7)

16. Private place with peace and quiet (7)

17. Marine mammal (6)

18. Alleviates (5)

20. Emblem (5)

22. Nothing (3)

To be in with a chance to win a €20 voucher for Duhallow Community Food Services 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 2nd 2023.

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.

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