Kilkenny Observer - December 18, 2020 by kilkennyobserver

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Friday 18 December 2020

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18 December 2020

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18 December 2020

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The Kilkenny

Observer

YOUR LOCAL NEWSPAPER

www.kilkennyobserver.ie

Goodbye

The time is write to move on JIMMY RHATIGAN EDITOR

HE TIME has come for me to say goodbye. Accidentally on purpose I became a trainee journalist in 1967 and after 53 years it breaks my heart to have to admit that the professional show is over. It was the Leaving Certificate class in Kilkenny CBS that was sent word that the Kilkenny People Newspaper, then one of Ireland’s finest provincial ‘papers, was recruiting for a trainee for its newsroom. Without any hesitation, I put pen to paper and applied for the job. Not because I wanted any job as at the time work was scarce, but partly because my mother always took pride in reminding that, as a nipper, I used to spread a broadsheet on the kitchen floor and spend hours perusing the pages. I had developed a love affair with ‘papers and writing from age three when my dad died suddenly

endear me to school. I had an idea of what diving into the real world would entail. I had worked part-time as a messenger boy with the then St Joseph’s Laundry, Waterford Road, cycling a bike that was more like a tank, and as petrol pump attendant during school summer holidays at the then Treacy’s Garage, Irishtown.

of fun at what we fondly called the KP, it was time to move on. A first job as editor of the then Kilkenny Voice Newspaper was both teasing and terrific but a noble project saw a talented ship go under in choppy waters. A journey into the unknown brought new challenges at our city’s first online newspaper, Kilkenny Alive with my friend and co-editor, Sean Hurley.

SINK OR SWIM Continued on Page 4 The then ‘People Newspaper was a great academy of journalism, championed by a dynamic editor in Sean Hurley and supported by a knowledgeable and progressive owner in John Kerry Keane. Add in practical journalistic short work-release courses on the Magee Campus of Ulster University in Derry, organised by the National Union of Journalists and you learned quickly that writing was a sink or swim profession. After 37 years with some great colleagues in many depart- Young journalist, Jimmy ments, enjoyable work and lots Rhatigan

REAL WORLD There was the added incentive of escaping any State exam as there was a deadline on job start. The latter was akin to a prisoner being slipped a file that would get him or her out of jail. Don’t get me wrong, I loved the CBS in James’s Street and everything that it stood for but we simply weren’t made for each other. I lived for English and Irish Prose but the good Brothers, God love ‘em, wanted me to learn Latin, mathematics, science, geography and history, With Cathal Mac Coille, broadcaster and journalist RTE at a subjects that at the time didn’t presentation of honorary life membership of the National Union of Journalists

EVERY FRIDAY

The Kilkenny

Observer 1 GARDEN ROW, TOP OF WILLIAM STREET, JUST OFF FRIARY STREET.

My grandson and friend, MJ Comerford loves reading at age 3

The joys of journalism. Waltzing with Chubby Brennan, dedicated Castlecomer columnist with The Kilkenny Observer, at a Deenside Players Panto in ‘Comer. Pics: Donal Foley

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Judy...A witty woman who didn’t lack punch Stints as editor at the Kilkenny Reporter and finally The Kilkenny Observer were stimulating and interesting in a professional world of communications where newspapers, once the finest source of information on Mother Earth, are now challenged by a plethora of other media, online, TV and radio. AT THE COALFACE As a strong advocate of vibrant, witty and stimulating journalism in well designed and presented provincial newspapers in partic-

ular, I would dearly love to continue at the coalface of an industry that has helped to make my life so interesting and inquisitive but is now under pressure. To be blunt, your newspaper is fighting for its life. But, alas, time waits for no man or woman. At the age of 70 the preference has to be to choose your opponents rather than having them foisted on you. Yes, I believe newspapers at national and local levels, can survive.

Judy: A witty woman who didn’t lack punch

The key to a new life has to be the old newspaper adage that content is king. Over the years, it was great to interview those loosely called celebs from many walks of life, larger than life people like Mick Jagger of The Rolling Stones, Kerry football legend Mick O’Connell, the late Martin McGuinness of Sinn Féin and the then smallest circus clown in the world, a wonderful character called Pitu. ABOVE CRITICISM Some may suggest that the latter was the smallest being interviewed by the biggest and, in fairness none of us should be above criticism. But while it was nice to meet the rich or famous, it was a privilege to interview the real people that help to make newspapers tick. My favourite interview over half a century as a member of The Fourth Estate was a memorable verbal inter-action with a highly intelligent and very witty woman called Judy Carpenter, a Fatima Place neighbour, a place of which I will always have hugely fond memories. What made the late Judy so special? She was totally up front, spoke from the heart and didn’t mince her words when the opportunity arose.

Four decades ago: Local members of the National Union of Journalists making a presentation to Tim Donovan, retiring editor of the then Kilkenny Journal, second from right. Making the presentation was ‘People senior reporter Peter Holohan. Also included were, from left, Jimmy Dockery, Kilkenny Journal, John Knox, Kilkenny People, Jimmy Rhatigan, Kilkenny People, Sean Hurley and photographer Tom Brett, both Kilkenny People. Photo: Tom Brett

It was, in short, the kind of stuff that most would probably enjoy reading. I will conclude with a hearty thank you to thousands of good people in local communities who I have met over a lifetime. A GIFT I appreciated your courtesy and goodwill and to those I may have agitated at times, I say your spell as a reader was also

appreciated. To my colleagues in The Kilkenny Observer, I wish every success on what will continue to be a competitive newspaper journey. Echoing the words of the late Dame Vera Lynn, a popular and very talented singer/songwriter, we’ll meet again. My intention is to continue to write, not when I have to, but when I want to.

I realise that old friends are best and it is brilliant to make new ones too. Here’s to a happy and healthy 2021 for us all. Goodbye and God Bless. Would I do it all again, you may ask? Most definitely, to be in a job you enjoy and where you delight in going to work every morning is more than a trip of satisfaction. ... It is a gift.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18 December 2020

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‘Nurses comfort dying but are denied pay’ A

Older people will never walk Alone

TUDENT NURSES who have held the hands of patients dying from Covid-19 are being denied pay for their love and care over long hours in hospitals So says local Sinn Féin TD, Kathleen Funchion who has lauded our student nurses and midwives for their Trojan work and compassion. “These young nurses and midwives along with their senior colleagues and medics are the real heroes in a war with a ruthless enemy,” she told The Kilkenny Observer. “I say shame on Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil and The Greens that ignore and belittle students who stand at hospital beds doing their utmost to comfort men and women taking their final breaths without the warmth of family members because of Covid-19 restrictions “It is beyond belief that members of any political party would deprive nurses of rather meagre wages they truly deserve so that they can pay their way in life as they care for the lives of others.

Kathleen Funchion: Supporting student nurses

Ms Funchion says you could be forgiven for believing that Government is determined to mollycoddle the rich. TAKE ADVANTAGE “At the same time it takes advantage of others as nurses who are so badly treated still turn up daily to tend to the sick; She said she was saddened by a Government refusal to support an Opposition Motion

to pay students who continue to do magnificent work on the frontline during this pandemic. This Government had no difficulty agreeing to pay increases to super junior ministers and judges along with pension increases for well-paid former Taoisigh. “There will be no complexity or review on that front as it always seems straight forward for Government to cough up when it comes to the wellheeled,” Ms Funchion continued. “Student nurses and midwives perform duties far beyond their educational requirements, often filling in gaps caused by illness or vacancies. “This has been particularly noteworthy during Covid-19 as over 11,000 healthcare workers have been hit by the virus. “Nurses are often on their feet for 13-hour days, dashing around performing their tasks with professionalism and compassion. “They have plugged the gaps created by decades of neglect from Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael.”

REAL ANGER “There is real anger and frustration felt by these students over the outrageous suggestion that they do not get paid because they do not do real work. “These students are on the roster; they are working and must be paid. They have put their health and safety at risk, and in many cases they have given up paid work elsewhere due to the risk of cross-infection. “Students’ dedication and bravery has helped to save lives. Yet, in the eyes of ruthless Government politicians they don’t deserve to be on any payroll. “The public knows this and doctors, nurses and health care workers working with these students know this.” “Steps must be taken to ensure students are financially supported to finish their placements and studies,” she added. “We will continue to highlight this injustice to ensure these dedicated people along with colleagues in the health service receive the pay they deserve and not just hand claps and balloons.”

LONE, the organisation that supports older people to age at home, is asking members of the public to be mindful of older people’s concerns, while respecting their choices, especially if they are apprehensive about seeing friends or relatives at Christmas. Reports from Alone’s National Support line and Winter checkin calls, suggest that many have concerns about activities at Yule. Older people don’t want to put themselves at risk and are worried about meeting family. Traditionally, where many older people would’ve travelled to spend Christmas with families, they are choosing to holiday season alone. Alone is encouraging members of the public to protect older people by respecting their wishes around Christmas Day and Covid-19. Sean Moynihan, CEO Alone told The Observer: “It has been a difficult year for older people who have had to take extra precautions because of the virus. FRIENDS AND FAMILY “It’s natural to want to see friends and family at Christmas, but this year is different.” The organisation is encouraging older people to stay within a

Alone CEO Seán Moynihan

safe ‘bubble’ this Christmas, and to keep in touch via phone and socially distant visits to minimise the risk of Covid-19. “We are advising older people to socialise safely within a small group and to keep in contact with family and friends.” Alone’s Christmas Campaign encourages people to Give a Helping Hand to older people. There are a number of ways you can safely support older people, checking in with older neighbours, friends and relatives to ensure they are warm and have enough fuel to keep a home at a comfortable temperature, or ensuring that on very cold, Winter days that older people have enough supplies. Alone’s National Support Line is available seven days a week from 8am to 8pm on 0818 222 024.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18 December 2020

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Bun Bros

Real deal for pizza and burger lovers F

OUR STAR Pizza and new burger chain Bun Bros have opened Friary Street, Kilkenny after an investment of €50k. Bun Bros is owned by the same parent company as muchloved Irish pizza chain Four Star Pizza and currently operates stores in Galway, Ennis, Dublin, Naas and Dundalk. The new store, which houses both the Four Star Pizza and Bun Bros brands, is sure to be a hit with pizza and burger lovers alike. Whether they choose from Four Star Pizza’s delicious range of pizzas from dough made freshly instore every day or Bun Bros epic burgers made with the best of Irish beef, succulent chicken breast and delectable pork and bacon all prepared to order with fresh, locally sourced lettuce, tomato and pickles. The store will also have a range of side desserts and drinks to tempt you. Store owner Rory O’Connell said he is delighted to open Four Star Pizza and Bun Bros store in Kilkenny. “We know that people in this area love trying new foodie experiences. A REAL HIT “We’re confident that our range of delicious pizzas and burgers is going to be a real hit with locals, not least because they are made from 100% Irish beef and are fantastic value for money. “Whether you are into a classic burger, chicken or veggie, there is something for everyone and with prices starting from only €5.95; it’s a no-brainer. There is even a hot and spicy

variation for those who enjoy a little kick with their burger as well as a veggie option for those who prefer to go meat-free. “For a limited time, we are offering a very tasty deal where customers can enjoy a classic burger and fries for only €5. “We look forward to welcoming everyone to the new store and can’t wait to hear people’s reactions when they try our meals.

“For those who fancy a pizza instead, Four Star Pizza sits right beside the new Bun Bros store and offers a huge range of mouth-watering pizzas to enjoy,” added Rory. For more information and to order, go to bunbros.ie/store/kilkenny or fourstarpizza.ie/menu/kilkenny

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18 December 2020

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18 December 2020

Sport â&#x20AC;&#x201C; KEEPING IT LOCAL

All-Ireland crown

The joy of the love of camogie

Trinity of triumph

Captain Fantastic: Lucinda Gahan, Dicksboro. Pics: Inpho

More Pictures on Pages 32, 34, 35, 38 & 39

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18 December 2020

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18 December 2020

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Onus is on An Post to deliver By Jimmy Rhatigan

HEN IT comes to post offices, our very own Loughboy PO at the heart of the local shopping centre is one of the best, if not the finest in all of Ireland. The all-female staff members are magnificent, warm, friendly, efficient and ever so helpful. Service is with a smile but unfortunately as our people battle their way through a pandemic, decision makers behind the scenes in An Post have let our people down. Social distancing is excellent; men and women of all ages are playing by the rules, wearing masks and behaving impeccably. Yet these very same people are expected to queue in the great outdoors, with the sky as a roof, in hail, torrential rain or biting cold. For our aged or ill in particular that has to be a daunting experience, a challenge that good people should not have forced on them. The decent thing for An Post chiefs to do would be to take a leaf out of the book of

decency and courtesy of its near neighbour, SuperValu and erect some sort of an emergency shelter to save customers from the elements. It’s the very least that customers deserve.

The onus is on An Post to deliver. No doubt there are other establishments around our city where people have to put up with a lack of proper outdoor queuing facilities.

The Nun’s Story of treating addiction A

NEW book about an organisation dedicated to the treatment of addiction has just become available. It is a memoir written by Eileen Fahey, a Sister of Mercy who, in 1983, founded the charitable organisation known as Aiséirí. Sister Eileen’s memoir traces her life from her earliest days in Bansha, County Tipperary to her schooldays in Cahir and onward to her preparation for religious life and her vocational training as a nurse and a counsellor. But the treatment of those suffering from addiction was to become her greatest passion. She first became aware of this potentially life-destroying disease when she worked as a psychiatric nurse in St Michael’s Hospital, Clonmel. Sister Eileen Fahey ADVANCED TRAINING Unhappy with the accepted treatment of the day she set about forging a new way to treat not just the individual people in addiction but also their families. Her journey took her to America for advanced training in addiction treatment and then back to Ireland to set up her own foundation. The first Aiséirí centre was in

Cahir in a lovely historic house where it remains to this day. Since then the organisation has flourished and developed and now has additional treatment centres for young people at Aislinn, Ballragget, County Kilkenny and for adults in Wexford and Waterford. Based on the abstinence model of Alcoholics Anonymous the holistic treatment

available can bring individuals from detoxification right through to aftercare and integration into employment or further education. Since its earliest days, Aiséirí has helped thousands of sufferers to move on from addiction and live happy, fulfilled lives. SISTER’S COURAGE In her memoir, Sister Eileen’s courage, conviction and compassion for the individual shine through. Her dedication and determination were other attributes that inspired her fellow Sisters of Mercy, staff and volunteers to provide her with the support and assistance which she acknowledges were critical to the success of Aiséirí. Above all, her story is one of hope that out of the depths of despair, there is the possibility that with help and support change is possible. Her memoir is enlivened by case histories from grateful past residents. These are told with humility, truth and good humour. The book is available at €20 in the four treatment centres and in selected bookshops. See www.aiséirí.ie

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Trouble afoot: Murph’s bunion is aching By Jimmy Rhatigan

RS MURPHY is not in great shape this week. Hence her column is much shorter than usual. But, as a dedicated soul she agreed to a wee telephone chat to communicate with those who get a kick out of her occasional contribution. “I am not in good fettle,” she said as the described her predicament. “I have my right leg in the air, aching with pain and the rest of me is feeling sorry for itself.” She wasn’t looking for sympathy, she was even in semi-humorous mode and we did feel for her as from previous experience we are familiar with the havoc that an aching bunion can inflict on an unfortunate. “It is particularly annoying when we have so much on our plate and I am not talking Mrs. Murph about Christmas Dinner.

“We have the dreaded Corona, we still have some restrictions and then we have Brexit. And then we come to the bunion. It is not the end of the world, but it is a real annoyance. In fairness, hundreds and maybe thousands of other people have much bigger problems. “I was in great form going to bed last night, looking forward to a good rest. Then I got a twinge, that turned into throbbing pain and by morning my big toe was inflamed. “So I perched myself on my kitchen couch, propped my foot on a high chair, with the aid of a cushion and hoped for the best. GOOD CHEER “My contrary foot had possible knock-on effects as myself and His Nibs had a lot of shopping to do, the usual bits and pieces for Christmas dinner, and, more importantly, a few parcels of good cheer for our loved ones.

“With the help of god and small farmers, my beloved and I will enjoy a little shopping trip, minding ourselves in torrid times. “But, it won’t be the end of the world is we don’t make the shops as our children and grandchildren are fantastic to us. “In the meantime, my message to Observer readers is stay safe, mind yourselves, obey health and safety rules. “We know the vaccine is on the way but whatever happens with my bunion, there is a discussion to be had between me and my dearest. “His Nibs says he would rather cocoon and behave himself than to take any vaccine. “Me? Bring on the cure, I say. Happy Christmas to all readers, mind yourselves and we will go into a new year with renewed hope and hopefully, better times.”

Loving girls on Santa mission of love

Santa’s little helpers did their families and schools proud: From left, Kate Skehan, Aoife Bergin, Lucy Skehan and Keeva Bergin

JIMMY RHATIGAN EDITOR

TRINITY of loving and caring young girls took a leaf out of Santa’s book of kindness. Two sisters and a caring neighbour at Rath Ullord on the New Orchard Road jumped on their bikes to raise funds in a sponsored cycle to help less fortunate parents and children in our city

and county. Spin-off from the fundraiser which enjoyed the support of a local housing area and schools in Kilkenny City and Freshford was a cool €1,000 plus a late donation of €15 which the girls handed over to the local branch of the St Vincent de Paul Society. In their own inimitable way the girls became Santa’s helpers as they put their hearts and souls into a mission of love. The girls are Lucy, aged 5 in Junior Infants at St John of God Convent, her sister Kate, aged 8

Girls were supported by a great team. Included are Eilis Bergin, Orla Skehan, Kate Skehan, Aoife Bergin, Lucy Skehan, Keeva Bergin, Veronica Mulhall with Ber Cahill and Anne Tyrrell of the St Vincent de Paul Society

in 3rd Class at the same school and Keeva Bergin, aged 7 in 2nd Class at St Lachtain’s National School, Freshford where her mother, Eilis is a teacher. NOBLE CHARITY Plan was to hold a cake sale but Covid-19 restrictions scuppered that. Keeva and Kate came up with the bike fundraiser while playing together. A plan was born to support a local charity. The girls had learned about the St Vincent de Paul Society in

2nd Class and that noble familyorientated charity was given the thumbs up. With an enthusiastic team of Lucy and Kate Skehan, Keeva and her sister, Aoife, aged 4, a vital cog in the wheel of enthusiasm; it was full speed ahead for an action plan. A safe cycle route was mapped. It would bring the girls from their home place, across the Ring Road, to SuperValu, Loughboy and back to Rath Ullord again, a well marshalled 10km course.

A poster was designed and sent to the local residents’ association that lent its full support. Copies were also dispatched to families and friends. SPIN DOCTORS As potential spin doctors, the girls did an excellent public relations job and the project was voted an outstanding success. Kate and Lucy’s mother, Orla Skehan told The Kilkenny Observer that everyone was extremely proud of the children. “It was fantastic for all

participants and their families and for all children it highlighted the importance of giving as well as taking. The children did everyone proud.” The young Skehans are daughters of Orla and Bryan. Keeva and Aoife Bergin who have a brother Finn aged 18 months, are children of Niall and Eilis Bergin. The girls worked closely with Ber Cahill and Mary Tyrrell of St Vincent de Paul that was delighted with the generosity and exuberance of the Rath Ullord children.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18 December 2020

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18 December 2020

News â&#x20AC;&#x201C; KEEPING IT LOCAL Cindy Cummings and Sheila Hennessy

Out and about...

Corla McGrory and dog, Lola

Ruain Lavelle, Kathy, Pat and Mary Hession

Monica Kearns and Eoin Lawlor

with our snapper Danny Lahart

Daniel and Richie Brennan

Paul, Luke and Sarah McDonald

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John and Cillian Delaney

Conall McLoughlin

Sandra and Seán Casey

John Breen

Michael Shelly, Meadow Way who made his First Communion on Saturday

Brendan, Aaron, and Kian Lawlor with Barry Hayes

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Observations

with Jimmy Rhatigan

Enemy hugs family member

and beds the rest

F THERE are many people around with reliable crystal balls that can give them an insight into the future, then none of them have been shouting from the rooftops. Soothsayers may be confident that their utterings will come true in 2021. But, reality usually comes back to bite even the cleverest and most enthusiastic in the backside. So we have to conclude that any talk of what next year may bring would be much nearer to opinion than to what may be. Because we are living in crazy, very dangerous and uncertain times, we would assume that hundreds of thousands of our people would love to hear exactly what 2021 will bring us. We are in the throes of what amounts to World War 3 and as in a majority of conflicts where life and limb are threatened, most of our people, we would suggest, are living in fear, fretting that the deadly Coronavirus will strike them down.

GREAT WISH The great wish is that people of vision, scientists, medics and kindred spirits of knowledge will pool their brains and come up with a formula that will confine Covid-19 to the history books. We believe that these people must exist and hopefully will be brought together, a welcome change from the daily parade of statistics that also includes a now rather hackneyed message that we still have a lot to do to win any battle. It is a bit like an earnest coach who does his or her utmost to spread the message of positivity that loses its impact if he or she lingers on the training pitch. The disappointment is that some medics who may preach a different gospel than those selected to lead our charge, seem to get the elbow from City Hall, from Government and from not so courageous or easily influenced journalists. In our city and county we have some great medics and it would be brilliant to hear their views.

AWFUL PROSPECT Worse still, the awful prospect that the killer virus may end our lives has to be in the minds of countless numbers of people who may constantly pray that their families will escape the clutches of an invisible enemy. That Covid-19 has already claimed so many lives in our own country and across the globe is a constant reminder that if we don’t take drastic action to avoid enemy fire then we may be shot down. Reality is that our fight against a tricky enemy has been uncertain and hugely challenging. We are in a guerrilla war, fighting an enemy that we are always unsure where she or he is, or where or when the demon might strike. Perhaps the most important thing we have learned about our foe is that it is a social soul, delighted to attend parties and

LIFE AND DEATH Similarly there has to be superbly talented doctors, immunologists and scientists et al around the globe that have not figured on any councils of Covid-19 war. It is vital that the soldiers of our destiny are proven men and women of war with impeccable credentials from scraps of other times. Sadly, in some cases in particular, the old boys’ club comes to the fore, not only in Ireland we might add. We are in a conflict of life and death. Tough decisions must be made and warriors that may not conform to boys’ or girls’ club rules, should have a voice. This battle is not a fashion show or an ego trip. It is a matter of life and death. Here’s to a year of common sense in 2021.

crowded gatherings in particu- the lethal weapon that is Corolar, a party pooper maybe that navirus. hugs one member of a family Our weapons include social and ends up in bed with the rest. distancing, washing our hands and wearing a mask. TERRORISTS TO SHAME That arsenal that may never As a country our efforts to hunt kill off Covid-19 just may have Covid-19 back to wherever it protected many from the virus came from have been relentless and perhaps saved lots of lives but often indifferent and not al- but will we ever really know if ways inspiring. our battle plan is good enough to Our army of medics and politi- put down a killer that would put cians will assure us that they are many terrorists to shame with its doing their utmost, and many world-wide massacres. We can only hope and maybe involved probably are, but unfortunately we and they know little pray that a vaccine may be a or feck all about the intricacies of game changer.

It would be wonderful if one or not to join the vaccine queues. all of the vaccines were to signal Government will be duty the beginning of an end of an in- bound to ensure that people are visible savage with an insatiable given freedom of choice. appetite for human flesh. None of us should try to twist the arms of friends, Romans or TAKE A JAB countrymen. It would appear as if a majority of We should respect the ‘to take our people may see the vaccine or not to take’ choice of every as our saviour and hence will be man or woman As for the big, and some would happy to take a jab. On the other hand there will say bad, world of pharma; that be those who will play a waiting it has demanded exoneration game, watching how others who from culpability should a hoped choose to take a vaccine react for tonic turn out to be a bitter and then making a decision one pill, is hardly a confidence boost way or another as to whether or for any doubting Thomases.

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Out and about... John Joe Ryan

Louise Fitzpatrick

Catherine and Kate McEvoy

Naoise Nunn, Simon Dwyer and Maria Schweppe

Hellen Achen and Judith Toroa

Keith and Charlie Knox

with our snapper Danny Lahart

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18 December 2020

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18 December 2020

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18 December 2020

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Bloody Hell

Fonsie Mealy raises €440,000 JIMMY RHATIGAN EDITOR

FULL complement of hand coloured and other plates ate up all other lots as it fetched the top price of €25,000 at a two-day Rare Book Christmas Sale at the Fonsie Mealy Auction Rooms in Castlecomer. The lot is described as Rosellini (Ippolito) 1 Monumenti dell Egtto e della Nubia, Volumes 1, 11 and 111 only, three volumes very large atlas folio, Pisa18321834. First edition, three plated titles, 397 full page plates, included 134 hand cold plates, containing full calf, by Hayday, with large and small fillet borders, worn (3). After that mouth-full comes the information, inscribed on verso of front loose marble end

- Presented by His Grace the Duke of Northumberland, K G. F. R. S. President RI. The first five lots on offer brought in a whopping €69,500, part of a ‘sales on the hammer’ figure of €440,000. The second highest price was for a Bloody Sunday First Anniversary Tournament Excessively Rare Gold Medal. The medal was awarded to Jack Kickham (CJ Kickham Club of Mullinahone) who played full forward for Tipperary against Dublin. The medal sold for €18,000 MASSACRE IN CROKER Next came what was called The Masterpiece of Modernism that fetched €9,500. The Joyce (James) Ulysses to Paris (Shakespeare & Co) 1922, First Edition, No 285 of 750 copies on handmade paper, original blue paper wrappers bound in, (lacks spine), uncut, blue cloth

gilt lettered spine, internally. (Slocum and Cahoon A17). A Bloody Sunday Ticket, an original admission ticket to Croke Park on November 21, 1920 fetched €9,000. At the match, British soldiers opened fire on the pitch and crowd, killing a player and 12 spectators. This followed Michael Collins’s operation against British Secret Service agents earlier that morning, in which 14 British officers were shot dead. Finally, the fifth most popular lot on the long list was a photograph, Cameron (Julia Margaret) portrait of Sir John F. H. Herschel, a large contemporary reprint of the iconic photo of Herschel. It is inscribed on reverse ‘To Sir John F. W. Herschel from his friend Julia Margaret Cameron’. The selling price was €8,000.

Bloody Sunday ticket

Clockwise From Top: Hand coloured plates, Ulysses, First Edition, Bloody Sunday medal and Iconic photo

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18 December 2020

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Tisser and Essential Oils

The Perfect Gift...

CLAIR WHITTY Nutritional Health Coach

SSENTIAL oils are an ideal gift at any time of the year. Most people love them but don’t know which oils to choose. Gift sets are such a great idea; for example, Tisserand’s

Winter Collection has six essential oils. It contains Orange, Lemon, Cinnamon, Rosemary, Peppermint, and Pine. You can diffuse essential oils in a ceramic burner or an electric diffuser. Simply choose your favourite scent. As a general rule of thumb add 6-8 drops to an essential oil burner or diffuser.

You can blend the oils with a carrier oil like almond oil for interesting massage blends. They’re very useful around the house too. Add a couple of drops to the water in your steam mop/ bucket. Or drop some of your favourite oil on to your hoover filter or sprinkle some in to the toilet bowl. Leave a damp cloth with a couple of drops of your favourite oil on the radiator.

A GREAT CHOICE You can create your own household air freshener by adding the oils to a spray bottle and use as required. Peppermint for example is used to ward off spiders. Rosemary is a great choice for concentration, focus, and memory. If added to your massage blend it’s also great oil for aching

and sore muscles after training. Orange is fantastic used in a carrier oil for congested skin. It creates a light and lively atmosphere in the home when burned. It blends well with Rosemary and Peppermint for focus and motivation. Lemon is a brilliant oil for creating an uplifting environment. It is a great one for clearing household smells. Peppermint is a fantastic choice to add to a footbath. It has an instant cooling effect that relieves tired and aching feet. DROPS IN BASIN Two drops in a basin of water is plenty. Diffuse six drops of Peppermint in your diffuser to help bring clarity to a busy mind. Pine is ideal in a massage blend or in the bath to refresh the mind and rejuvenate the skin. It’s a favourite at Christmas time to bring the scent of the outside in. Cinnamon is lovely combined with Orange and some Clove Oil for a traditional festive scent. You can blend essential oils together to create your own wonderful scents. I hope that these tips will help you to get the most out of your essential oils for 2021. Why not call in to see us at Market Cross Shopping Centre or give us a call on 056-7764538 email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie.

The Christmas gift of beauty

T Natural Health Store, Market Cross there is a world of wonder inside its doors. Christmas time in store is always special and staff make a special effort to help you choose the perfect gifts for your loved ones. There are gifts galore for all the family. There is a large selection of Gift Sets, Oil Burners, Fairies and Dragons. Or why not give the gift of joy this Christmas time with a beautiful bespoke hamper. You can choose from readymade ones or you can pick the

products, and the store’s little elves will turn it into a beautifully presented hamper. If you are stuck for ideas a Gift Voucher is always a safe bet. The Natural Health Store follows all Covi- 19 Government guidelines in store, but if you would like the store to deliver a gift to your loved one, it can arrange that. Follow the shop on Facebook and Instagram for all the info on what’s going on in store. All the team wish all customers a very Happy Christmas and Healthy New Year.

Five worst errors you may make at work N

ONE of us are perfect. We all make mistakes, but did you know that you could unknowingly be putting your health at risk? From listening to music too loudly to slouching at your desk, take a look at five of the worst health mistakes you are making. ENOUGH WATER Thirst can be a sign that you are already dehydrated. Twothirds of your body is made up of water so it’s no surprise that we need to drink a lot to keep levels topped up. Feeling a little thirsty every once in a while is not necessarily a cause for concern but ensuring your body has enough fluids is vital in keeping your energy up, organs healthy, helping to detoxify the body and improving digestion. Water is also vital in keeping your skin clear and healthy. Keep a record of the fluid you drink. Keep a bottle of water in your bag and on your desk to make sure you drink from it

Eoin Everard Physiotherapist

regularly. Some advice states that you should drink eight glasses of water a day, but this level can vary from person to person depending on how much exercise you do and the climate. POOR POSTURE Office workers should heed this. Poor posture as a result of sitting all day can cause back and spine problems, headaches, poor circulation and reduced lung function.

Several research studies have found that prolonged periods of sitting can also put you at risk of developing diabetes, increased blood pressure and heart disease, even if you are otherwise physically active. To sit correctly in your desk, push your hips back in the chair as far as they can go, ensure both feet are flat on the floor and your eyes are level with the top of the monitor. Although this position might seem uncomfortable at first, your body will soon get used to it and in the long run, your body will thank you for it. Try to move around frequently, as even the smallest activities repeated regularly can offset some of the health problems caused by sitting. When you are out of the office, make an effort to exercise regularly and be as active as possible.

ever think about the volume you listen to your favourite tunes at? If you frequently expose yourself to music that’s too loud then it could cause lasting damage to your hearing. You won’t notice the effects of this health mistake right away, as the hearing problems that come as a result of listening to loud music develop over time. The damage can cause irreversible effects such as tinnitus (ringing) and muffled hearing. A study by the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimated that people use personal audio devices at an average of 94 decibels (to put it in perspective, normal conversation is usually around 60 decibels.) To give yourself the best chance of protecting your hearing, invest in noise-cancelling headphones. These will block out background noise that most people try to drown out by increasing LOUD MUSIC the volume of a normal set of You may listen to music during headphones. your commute, at the gym or Give your ears regular while you’re at work but do you 20-minute breaks when listen-

ing to music to allow them time BRUSH YOUR TEETH You’re probably thinking that to recover. brushing your teeth after eating SNOOZE BUTTON is the right thing to do. The snooze button is many peoBut it can be harmful to your ple’s best friend in the morning. teeth. Brushing soon after eatSome don’t even think about ing anything acidic or sugary ingetting out of bed until they’ve cluding fruit and juices can lead hit it a few times. to weakened tooth enamel. But as good as a few stolen Whenever you eat anything minutes might feel, it could be acidic, it causes the pH levels in bad news for your sleeping pat- your mouth to drop below nortern. mal and as a result, your tooth When your alarm initially enamel softens and becomes goes off, your body prepares it- vulnerable. self to get up but when you hit So if you brush your teeth the snooze button, it can con- after eating acidic food, you run fuse your brain and leave you the risk of removing the softfeeling more groggy and sleepy ened enamel. Instead, brush your teeth bethan when your alarm first went off. fore you eat anything acidic. You The best thing to do is to set an can rinse your mouth with water alarm that goes off at the same immediately after eating these time every day and get up when foods, but avoid going in with it goes off. the brush until at least 40 minAfter so long, your body will utes after you have consumed get used to the consistency of the acidic food, as it takes this waking up at the same time long for pH levels to return to every day and eventually, your normal. body may even wake up natuFor information on back pain rally at that time, without an visit everardpilates.com/backalarm. pilates.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18 December 2020

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18 December 2020

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Fantastic Kilkenny girls deliver a cup of cheer

Player of the match, Aoife Doyle. Pics: Inpho

Wide awake Cats put the West to sleep

Every picture tells its own wonderful story

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18 December 2020

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18 December 2020

Sport – KEEPING IT LOCAL

It’s a turkey shoot as crafty All pics: Inpho

JIMMY RHATIGAN On his Loughboy Couch

HE TRIBE may not have had a notion at the time, but it was reasonably obvious that its goose was next door to cooked. After a see-saw first half in which defences were Fort Knoxlike, Kilkenny led for the first time in the 40th minute of a game of catenaccio, more commonly cat and mouse. Up to then, Galway was still in the hunt. However, slowly but surely the crown holders began to wilt and our prowling Cats became marauders as they embarked on a turkey shoot that killed off any hopes of a second successive win for The Fields of Athenry. It was Denise Gaule who proved to be Kilkenny’s sharpshooter supreme when she shot a super point 10 minutes into the second half. The score was incisive. The Cats had their noses in front and not even a silk Galway hankie could wipe away their enthusiasm.

prayed for a late Galway rally but that simply was not in their make-up at the weekend. It was the passionate Kilkenny warriors who finished with aplomb and deftness for a welldeserved pre-Yule present. For most of the hour it was as if Kilkenny was destined for glory. The gods of camogie were certainly on the side of Brian Dowling’s neatly structured formation. Our local girls made life difficult for Galway as they battled with fervour.

LADY LUCK The latter may have won them a good turn from Lady Luck as she may have determined that breaking ball was to fall kindly for us. Ironically, both teams often struggled when it came to crisp rising of the sliotar. Efforts in that department may have ended in a scoreless draw. But when it came to energy, will to win and showing sheer determination for the cause, it was the Kilkenny girls who were top of the class. There will be those who may analyse and analyse again why the Liberty Insurance O’Duffy Cup is now resting by the Nore, but, without being experts, there LIGHTNING STRIKES The old adage that lightning is a quick answer to that quesnever strikes twice in the same tion. spot, or thereabouts, was well shredded when the black and OUR GIRLS WANTED IT MORE. amber was awarded a penalty Galway seemed to run out of ideas following the final water edging towards the hour. Up stepped Denise Gaule, break when there were 15 mincool, calm and collected as she utes only left for Kilkenny to stroked a beautifully placed low strengthen their lead or for Galball into the bottom right hand way to conjure a late, late smash corner of the net, well out of the and grab. goalkeeper’s grasp, to knock any pre-Christmas stuffing out of the SILENT NIGHT As with most major sporting Galway girls. Tribes’ supporters may have events in our own country and

cross channel, supporters are confined to television, radio or online newspapers for their live updates. Surreal was the name of the game. Turnstiles were redundant, hawkers had another day off and county colours were confined mainly to official Croker flags and the ribbons on the handles of the cup. There was nobody yelling three bars of chocolate for two bob. Amhrán na BhFiann was played over the former Jones’s Road tannoy system and a weird sound of silence was broken only by enthusiastic team mentors and the shrill of the referee’s whistle. Aptly, the big match may be recalled as a Silent Night. WEIRD AND WONDERFUL But it would be a safe bet that there were loud cheers and back slapping in thousands of Kilkenny homes and the odd tavern. We are living in weird yet wonderful times. Sure ‘tis a good day, night even, when Kilkenny wins an All-Ireland Final in Croke Park. The girls will remember AllIreland Saturday as the occasion when they had to wear masks. They will always be happy that they played with passion and pride in a game that threw up some wonderful points, a brilliantly struck penalty, terrific blocking and hooking, and most importantly the O’Duffy Cup was adorned with Kilkenny ribbons at the end of a pulsating battle. More pics Pages 38&39

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Cats cook Galway’s goose

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Classified section To advertise your business in our classified section call in or telephone: 056 777 1463, or email: accounts @kilkennyobserver.ie

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LANGTONS DETURE CLINIC • Natural Looking Dentures • iDentures

• Full and Partial Dentures • Gum Shields

• Cobalt Chrome Dentures

• Night Guards

• Denture Repairs

• Bleaching Trays

• Relines

• Essix Retainers

2 Priory Square Dean Street Kilkenny

T: 056 7712741

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Christmas Croker cracker Local girls do us proud

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