Muskerry news march 2018

muskerry news FREE

incorporating northcitynews

Vol 16, Issue 4

March 2018

www.muskerrynews.biz

INSIDE THIS ISSUE at a

Glance ... page 24 more for Donough Busy month

DRIVERS WANTED

Macra

... page 25

king a and not loo 25 years old

day of it!

... page 28

atrick lebrate St. P Cor Gael ce

in song

... page 36 e

Suprem skerry GAA Mark is Mu ar!

Ye e th of Sports Star

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Muskerry News

muskerrynews

FREE

incorporating northcitynews

Vol 16, Issue 4

March 2018

www.muskerrynews.biz

incorporating North City News Church View, Blarney, Co. Cork. t: 087 2330398 / 087 2513126

e: muskerrynews@eircom.net

Fiona Barry, The Kingsley Hotel, and Helen Wycherly, Celtic Ross Hotel at Cork Chamber Cork Company of the Year Awards.

www.muskerrynews.biz

The April edition of The Muskerry News, incorporating The North City News, will be published on Thursday April 12th and closing date for submissions is Thursday April 5th.

pic Darragh Kane

Congratulations to Lynn-Marie Dennehy, Blarney, pictured right at her conferring. She graduated with first class honours in her Masters of Arts in Arts and Process following her studies at the Crawford College of Art and Design.

Dripsey Artist Sinead McCarthy with her portrait of Rena Buckley, Rena, and Michael Creed, TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine at the Muskerry GAA Gala Awards Night. pic Mike English

MARCH

Congratulations to Niamh O’Shea, teaching in Cloghroe National School, who has been awarded a Teaching Council Bursary Award for her educational research on collaborative culture amongst teachers. The Teaching Council awarded 33 bursaries nationally, totalling ₏100,000, to teachers engaging in educational research.

Muskerry News

Blarney Beavers group took a trip to Cork Airport recently

whilst working on their Air Badge. They learned all about the airport building, old and new, saw a map of the airport in the friendship room, met the airport police and even got a spin in the airport fire engine!

Twenty Cork barbers and hair salons, including Visage, Impressions and ARK Hair Studio in Ballincollig, and Alphasud Blarney, highlighted the importance of positive mental wellbeing and awareness when they took part in a ‘Cut and GROW’ campaign last month in aid of the mental health charity, GROW.

LIVE Music Blarney’s No. 1 LIVE Sport & Music Venue

‘Cut and GROW’ events took place on Friday February 23rd and Saturday February 24th, with an aim of raising mental health awareness and funds for GROW Mental Health.

GROW is one of Ireland’s oldest mental health charities and holds 15 free weekly peer-support groups across Cork city and county, as well as free community education programmes.

“People chat to their hairdressers and barbers. Going to a salon is a social experience and people often talk about many subjects, including their daily lives and mental health. As a result, they are an ideal setting to show what GROW has to offer in terms of helping people who may be experiencing mental health difficulties or to inform people of the mental health supports that are available to someone that they know, be it a friend, colleague, family member or loved one,” says Susan.

St. Patrick’s Day Ireland v England

14.45pm

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Muskerry News Terence O’Rourke, MEngSc, pictured as he graduated with his Masters of Information Technology in Architecture, Engineering & Construction.

Terence is pictured with his proud parents Pat and Noreen O’Rourke.

12 Irish Entrepreneurs including Alcass from Ballincollig and Biobind, founded by Ian Curtin from Blarney (pictured) will now advance to a once in a lifetime intensive boot camp in Boston next month, thanks to Cork County Council’s ground-breaking startup programme with Boston based MassChallenge.

Alcass Health Solutions is a provider of innovative devices and software in the area of Preventative and Rehabilitative Medicine.

BioBind provide a disruptive, low-cost, customisable technology that empowers biology researchers to see what they need to see inside and outside the body.

To follow the progress of Alcass and Biobind and to join the conversation online follow Bridge to MassChallenge Cork on Facebook\b2mcCork, Twitter @b2mcCork or LinkedIn. #B2MCCork

Confirmation boy, Ciaran Thompson, Coachford, with his parents, Elizabeth and Jimmy and brother, Darragh, enjoying the racing at Curraheen Park. pic Mike English

Wonderful turn out for Blarney Tidy Towns clean up of the roadside and ditches from Pauds Cross to Kerry Pike, including Rhiannagh and Daniel Buckley their newest recruits.

Muskerry News

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Muskerry News

Children from as far away as County Clare travelled to Griffins of Dripsey to learn and enjoy the skills of seed planting and upcycling as part of their recent ‘Hello Spring Party’. They all left with their compostable takeaway cup filled with bee friendly wild flowers which can be nurtured indoors until the temperatures rises and then planted into the ground, still inside the cup!

Michelle Sliney, Principal Colaiste Choilm, and Conor Healy, Chief Executive Cork Chamber, pictured at the Cork Education & Training Board Student Showcase & 2017-2021 Strategy Launch.

slug club

Fairy Queen Kate showed off the miniature garden that she created in Granny Griffin’s wheelbarrow, and told the children all about the forthcoming children’s gardening club where children learn the joy of growing their own vegetables and fruit, as well as respecting nature and reducing their carbon footprint. For more details on The Slug Club visit www.griffinsgardencentre.ie pics Timmy Griffin

pic Jim Coughlan

2018 Breakthrough Cancer Ball Organising committee members; Eoghan O’Sullivan, Eileen O’Hara, Jesse Wiesblatt, Patricia Larkin, Bernie Whelan and Jacqueline O’Brien. pic Donagh Glavin

YSI Blarney students want to see you dance!

The Young Social Innovator students at Scoil Mhuire Gan Smál Blarney are taking on RTE with their own version of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ and are calling on all local dancers to come and show off their skills in their forthcoming competition. Their dance competition ‘Strictly Come Dancing Over 60s’, will take place at Blarney Castle Hotel on March 14th and everyone over 60 is welcome to come and participate in the event, or anybody is invited just to come and watch and admire the moves! Showcasing the very best of local talent, this is an event you won’t want to miss, and be prepared to be transported back to the 1950’s, as The Castle Hotel transforms for the night! Tickets for the event cost €10.

For more information please contact ysismgs2017@gmail.com or call them on 087 7084 774.

2017 Blarney Person of the Month and recently crowned Muskerry GAA Supreme Sports Star of the Year, Mark Coleman, pictured filling up his tank at TRIA at Blarney Auto Centre, sponsors of Blarney Person of the Year Awards.

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Muskerry News

Minding your money with Anthony Forde - Blarney Credit Union

The Central Credit Register

The Central Credit Register was set up by the Central Bank of Ireland under the Credit Reporting Act 2013. The Central Credit Register is a national database that will, on request, provide:

» » »

a borrower with an individual credit report detailing their credit agreements; a lender with comprehensive information to help with credit assessments; and the Central Bank with better insights into national trends in the provision of credit.

Helen Wycherley, Celtic Ross Hotel, with Nicola McMahon, Community Fundraiser Munster Irish Cancer Society at the presentation of a staggering €15,000 to support the charity’s fight against breast cancer, which was raised at the hotel’s 10th annual Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Weekend. pic Darragh Kane

The Credit Reporting Act 2013 requires lenders to process your personal and credit information for the Central Credit Register (CCR). They will submit personal information to the CCR such as:

» » » »

your name; address; date of birth; and personal public service number (PPSN) - a very important piece of information for matching.

The Central Credit Register needs this information to make sure it accurately matches your loans, including loans that you may have with other lenders. Producing a full and accurate credit report is one of the main aims of the Central Credit Register. Lenders will also submit credit information each month about your loans, if the loan is for €500 or more.

Your loan information will be stored securely on the Central Credit Register where it will be used to create your credit report. The Central Credit Register will not calculate a score or grade for your credit report. Information will be kept on the Central Credit Register for five years after your loan is paid off.

In early 2018, credit reports will become available from the Central Credit Register. Once available, you may request your report at any time and are entitled to one free report each calendar year.

Lenders may only access your credit report:

» » »

when considering an application for a new loan; if you ask to change the terms of a loan; or if they are reviewing a loan in arrears.

Employers, landlords, or any other person or entity cannot access your credit report without your written consent.

For more information on the Central Credit Register, visit www.centralcreditregister.ie or phone 01-2245500.

Sarah Mulcair, Whitechurch and Alan Crowley, Adrigole, enjoying the racing at Curraheen Park. pic Mike English

Blarney Tourist Office close its doors All good things come to an end and it’s sad to see Blarney Tourist Office close its doors at the end of this week. Bord Fáilte officially closed the office more than 6 years ago, and since it was reopened by John Henchion and Kate Durrant, Blarney Chamber of Commerce, it had been run by the goodwill and outstanding volunteerism of Mary Twohig, in the lovely premises kindly given by Blarney Woollen Mills. Mary is pictured with PJ Lynch and Deirdre Healy who have both been very involved with the ongoing running of the office. Thank you Mary for all you have done, you will be a great loss to the village!

Muskerry News

Lovely local lady Jo Cronin, Jo’s Edge Blarney, pictured as she popped into Penny Dinners, which is now open in the evenings, to donate €1000 donated by staff and clients, and of course, Jo herself.

As Jo said, “Such a warm welcome and atmosphere and music with a guitar playing in the background! I’m always amazed when I visit to see the wonderful work Catríona and her team carry out. Food hampers, clothes, lunches and now staying open longer. What an amazing lady.”And so say all of us!

‘One language sets you in a corridor for life.

Two languages open every door along the way’. Déanaigí cinnte go mbeidh dhá theanga ag bhur bpáiste ‘is iad ag criochnú na bunscoile.

Give your child the very best start by ensuring they leave primary school fluent in not one but two languages.

Gaelscoil Mhuscraí is currently enrolling for September 2018 and beyond.

Call or email to find out more.

Guthán/Facs: (021) 4516874 Ríomhphost: gaelscoilmhuscrai@gmail.com Suíomh: http://gaelscoilmhuscrai.ie

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Claudia Osborne, Orla Leahy, Rachael Lafferty, Anna Twomey, Liadh O’Neill are the students behind CORAL, a Scoil Mhuire gan Smal Blarney transition year mini company that created ‘The Relaxation Box’, a product aimed at primary school children to help them relax and relieve stress. The box includes a worry teddy, a thoughts envelope, bookmark, crayons, colouring pages, Cadbury’s hot chocolate, a stressball and bubbles.

The attractive white box can be personalised by the child, giving them ownership of their box, and maybe their worries too?

Taking time to play and relax is critical for children’s well-being, and the students hope that The Relaxation Box will help open up the conversation on mental health with your child. According to their research 88% of students surveyed in a boy’s urban primary school feel stressed over schoolwork, and being overscheduled is one of the primary stressors for children. The Relaxation Box gives them time to slow down and just enjoy being a child.

You can purchase The Relaxation Box by emailing therelaxationboxireland@gmail.com.

Each box retails at €13 and can be collected from SMGS, or posted for an additional charge, with 5% of the profit being donated to Pieta House. You can find them on facebook ‘The Relaxation Box’.

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Christina Dudoran, Ballincollig and Romania, celebrating her birthday with family and friends at Curraheen Park. pic Mike English

Loughane Angus from Scoil Mhuire gan Smál, Blarney, had a great day out at Fellfort Angus, Watergrasshill, to learn from the best as they prepare for the next stage of the ‘Certified Irish Angus Beef Schools’ Competition on March 14th in Croke Park. We wish them luck!

The Blarney/Inniscarra Cope Foundation fundraising group met in the Castle Hotel recently for their AGM and handed over the funds raised in 2017. Their Coffee Morning, held in June in the Castle Hotel, was a huge success and enjoyed by all and their Church Gate collections in the area also generated a lot of funds.

They were thrilled to hand over the cheque to Jo-Anne Higgins, from Cope Foundation’s Fundraising Department who said, “This is one fantastic group of supporters and Cope Foundation is lucky to have them.” Big thanks to these volunteers and to everyone in the Blarney area for their continued support for Cope Foundation, we cannot do it without you!

Pizza Party Deal 5 Large Pizzas and a bucket of chips, wedges or chicken dippers only

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Muskerry News

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Blarney & District Garden & Flower Club An introduction to growing your own cut flowers

by Sarah Evans from The Secret Garden

Thursday 22nd March @ 8pm Community Hall, Whitechurch All welcome

Blarney Wellfest is a free event, sponsored by O’Leary’s SuperValu Tower and Kevin Condon Financial Brokers, which will take place on 15th April from 11am - 4pm in Scoil Mhuire gan Smal, Blarney.

This one day event aims to connect people with organisations, people and services that there are in Blarney to support emotional and physical wellbeing.

Life is full of ups and downs, and maintaining wellbeing before things get to crisis point really helps. The organisers are hoping this event shows what’s going on and gives people the chance to give it a whirl. This is a free event, with voluntary donations on the day going to two vital local services Blarney Community First Responders and Dogs for the Disabled.

This event is being organised by Bethan O’Riordan and Pat Murphy from the Blarney Wellness Centre and Eoin Murphy from Eoin Murphy Fitness and they welcome any ideas you may have about what you would like to see at the event.

If you offer a local wellbeing service, please get in touch with Bethan or Pat, they would love to include as many people as possible. To book a stall, which are available to hire for the day at a small cost, or for further information call Bethan on 083 313 044.

As we say goodbye to the snow, thanks to Edward Healy for this great photograph of the ‘Last of the Winter Wine’ on Tower Bridge!

International celebrity snowboarder Eileen Maguire from Rathpeacon pictured signing autographs in Blarney Castle.

Wonderful to see Lenka and her lovely family as they reopen The Old Post Office Café in Blarney after the Winter break. Same warm welcome, same fabulous food but with some exciting new additions to the menu. Welcome back, you’ve been missed!

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Blarney & District

Person of The Year Awards 2018 Sponsored by The Muskerry News and Blarney & District Chamber of Commerce

The February Blarney & District Person of the Month is Jo Ann O’Connor

Do you know someone who deserves a Blarney & District Person of The Month award?

The awards aim is to recognise achievement, leadership and altruism so that others may be inspired to follow.

You can nominate anyone whose contribution has singled them out as deserving of recognition, be it in community, sport, business, arts, family or indeed from any sector or activity in our community.

The February Blarney & District Person of the Month is Jo Ann O’Connor. As those who nominated her told us; ‘For almost 25 years Jo Ann O’Connor has been the organist in The Church of The Immaculate Conception, Blarney.With the exception of holidays, Jo Ann plays the organ every Sunday, Church Holy Days and many other special church ceremonies which require an organist.

Send your nomination with the name of your nominee and the reason you wish to nominate them to Blarney & District Person of The Month Awards, The Muskerry News, Church View, Blarney, County Cork or by email to muskerrynews@eircom.net

Jo Ann is also to be found sitting at the organ every Monday night as the choir practices, and she travels with the choir when they are invited to play in different venues.It is an exceptional commitment she has given, and continues to give, to the village and whilst it is true that she loves to play, she gives her time humbly, unselfishly and voluntarily. Thank you Jo Ann for all you do.’

Sean Underwood January

Jo Ann O’Connor February

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Garden Fertiliser, Soil Conditioners & Organic Moss Control Peat Briquettes 5 for €20 Premium Polish Coal €20 per bag Fireheat & Firequick Stove Fuel €19 per bag Fertiliser 7-6-17 + Sul. ... €25 per 50kg Cropmaster 8-5.2-16.6 + 6Sul, 6Ca, Boron & Zinc ... €25 per bag Granular limestone ... €14 per bag

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‘Nuacht na míosa ó Ghaelscoil Mhuscraí’ Gaelscoil Mhuscraí celebrating St. Valentine’s Day! Ag céiliúradh Lá ‘le Vailintín ag Gaelscoil Mhuscraí!

Pupils taking part in their most recent WOW Day. Walk to School on Wednesday.

Gaelscoil Mhuscraí pupils with Junior B hurling cups won by Blarney GAA last season.

The recent Irish Girl Guides A-wear-ness day.

Gaelscoil Mhuscrai open night.

Muskerry News

Big thank you to all our staff and management for your selflessness and commitment in getting to work to ensure BFS stayed open every day in the worst of the weather.

To our local suppliers and Musgraves for the huge effort they put in to keep our shelves stocked.

And to you, our customers, for your patience, good humour and understanding during a challenging few days.

Thank you!

Stephen and Jemma Blake

BFS Centra

At the heart of the local community

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The eagerly awaited Cork Lifelong Learning Festival will take place from Monday 19th - Sunday 25th of March 2018.

The annual festival, which has developed and grown year on year, lives by it’s motto of ‘Investigate, Participate, Celebrate’, and the public are encouraged to do just that by trying out new skills and enjoying demonstrations of skills both new and old. Events are aimed at all ages, from the very young to the young at heart, and all events are free. The exciting programme includes performances, debates, taster sessions, tours, displays and demonstrations, and really does have something for everyone. The only limit is your appetite to try something new!

Events, which aim to be accessible to all, take place right across Cork city and county in a variety of venues indoors and out, including shopping centres, libraries, museums, resource and community centres, parks, sports grounds, private businesses and on the streets.

The free festival programme is out now and available in local libraries, host venues and in Cork City Hall foyer, and online at www.corkcity.ie/learningcity/lifelonglearningfestival/

Blarney Community First Responders The weather last week was a sobering reminder that emergency services may not always be able to get to us in time. Add to that facts like 15 people die every day from Sudden Cardiac Death in Ireland and that 80% of cardiac arrests happen outside of hospital normally in the presence of family or friends it’s a good signal to take action. For every minute after a cardiac arrest, the person’s chance of survival decreases by 7-10% unless they receive help.

By each one of us strengthening the chain of survival, we can help reduce these figures. The chain of survival consists of five vital links to saving a life, and each one can be the difference between life and death.

The first three links are in our hands; 1. Immediate recognition of cardiac arrest and activation of the emergency response system 2. Early CPR with an emphasis on chest compressions 3. Rapid defibrillation Blarney Community First Responders next course in CPR and use of an AED will be held in Tower on April 14th. Could this be the day that you decide to take the care of those you love in your own hands? You can find out more or book through their facebook page, or by calling Kate on 087 2330398.

EASTER SPRING CRAFT FAIR Blarney will hold it’s first Easter Spring Craft Fair on Sunday, 25th March 2018 from 10am to 4pm in Blarney Golf Resort.

Sharing the love at the Scoil Chroí Íosa Valentine Coffee Morning.

The craft fair will take place in the ballroom of the main building with plenty of parking and there is even a ‘man-creche’ in the form of the bar next door! The organisers have lined up some amazing crafters and artists who are looking forward to meeting you all, and best of all, entry is free. Wonderful local charity Dogs for the Disabled will also be there on the day with their dogs.

Muskerry News

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Blarney National School

at the

of our Community

February was a short but action packed month in Scoil Chroí Íosa.

Ms. Fitzgerald and Ms. Crowley’s 2nd class children had their First Confession on February 22nd. The children were wonderful and the ceremonies were performed to perfection.

The Confirmation’s came early to our 6th Class this year and we were one of the first schools in the Diocese to receive Confirmation on a cold but beautiful February 27th. Prior to the Confirmation the children went on a retreat which was run this year entirely within the Parish, helped by he Missionaries of Charity in St. Helen’s who facilitated this event.

As we mentioned last month, a ‘St.Valentine’ themed coffee morning was run in our Castle Close Road campus to raise funds for the school and for Charity. This was a lovely community orientated event and the children wish to thank all who supported us.

Izzy McSweeney, 6th class, was selected to represent Cork on the County basketball team, and enjoyed their first match beating Waterford. Our hurlers, under the command of Mr. O’Leary, were successfully involved in an indoor blitz.

February had a surprise sting to her tail when our schools were shut due to the cold weather, but as one of our 3rd class teachers remarked ‘March comes in like a lion and out like a lamb’.

Junior Infants Irish dancing to ‘Shoe the Donkey’.

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It was the week when we watched the Snow family of Peter French, Scoil Mhuire gan Smal, feature on The Late Late Show, whilst The Halpin Longs and The O’Gormans were just two of many superb snow families to be seen in Blarney.

Talented young builders from Mitchells’s Court and Kerry Pike NS built an awesome igloo, and the Treacy/Robertson/Buckley collaboration created this fabulous snowman in Donoughmore.

Friday also saw Detective Inspector Frost join the team at Blarney Garda Station.

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Busy and exciting month for Donoughmore Macra Seán Wallace did both his club and parish proud by winning a National Leadership Award in recognition for work he has carried out at a club, regional and national level. These awards took place in the Red Cow Moran Hotel, Dublin and were sponsored by ABP. The club entered both men’s and women’s basketball teams in the regional final. Despite an exciting final which went to extra time, the women were narrowly defeated. However, the men’s team won their competition and will progress to the National finals.

Alan Twomey, Heather Healy and Seán Wallace with Macra President James Healy at the ABP Macra National Leadership Awards.

Donoughmore Macra’s Men’s Basketball Team Well done to both Donoughmore teams who took part in the regional final of Impromptu Debating. A very interesting debate took place and the team of Seán Wallace, Alan Twomey and Tom Carroll narrowly defeated the team of Elaine O’ Connell (who was awarded Best Speaker on the night), Diarmuid O’ Connell and John Sexton.

Best of luck to club members competing in the upcoming National Talent Competition!

Tom Carroll, Diarmuid O’ Connell, John Sexton, Elaine O’ Connell, Alan Twomey and Seán Wallace at Impromptu Debating.

For more information on the club check out www.facebook.com/ donoughmore.macra, Twitter at www.twitter.com/dmoremacra or contact 085-1521675.

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Twenty Five years old and not looking a day of it!

Sinead’s Hair Studio

Congratulations to all at in Cloghroe who celebrated 25 years of excellence last weekend with their families, customers and staff.

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News from Times Past Kissing Chicago’s with Brian Gabriel, Blarney & District Historical Society The World’s Columbian Exposition (Chicago World’s Fair), held at Jackson Park and the Midway Plaisance in 1893, was a spectacular event, a celebration of America’s industrial achievements and her increasing global importance. There were over 250,000 displays. There was an eleven-ton cheese, a replica of the Venus de Milo made of chocolate, every industry imaginable and every new invention, powered by electricity.

There were 21,480,141 paid admissions. Almost twenty six million persons attended. Forty-six nations participated. The Exposition cost $28,340,700 and it took the world’s first Ferris wheel to ensure that the Fair was saved from ultimate bankruptcy. In the midst of all, were two Irish Villages, a replica Blarney Castle, a half-sized Donegal Castle and the opportunity of kissing the Blarney Stone.

The stone was the pièce de résistance, the main attraction of the Irish Industrial Village – a celebration of Irish art and industry which owed its place at the Fair to the enthusiasm of Lady Aberdeen, wife of a former Viceroy of Ireland (1886), John Campbell HamiltonGordon. She was Ishbel Marjoribanks, born in Scotland in 1857, author, philanthropist and advocate of woman’s interests.

If the described representation of Blarney in Chicago seems tacky today, it must be remembered that the symbolic castles had been chosen over many possible options in order to sell Ireland to best advantage in the America of 1893. It follows that the representations were somewhat contrived. Fifteenth century Blarney Castle (the castle of the strong, the brave, Cormack McCarthy, built upon a spot where Druids made magic long before Saint Patrick’s time) was all about pageantry and, in this case, capitalism. The Fair’s portrayal of Blarney was the best fit for a financial niche in contemporary Chicago. The ‘Irish Industrial Village’ at the World’s Fair was by no means a first, nor would it be the last attempt to sell Ireland’s economic and tourist attractions abroad. The concept of an ‘Irish Village’ was born in an Irish Exhibition at London’s Olympia in 1888. Ireland’s position within the British Empire meant that Dublin had already imitated, in 1853, Britain’s Great Industrial Exhibition held at the Crystal Palace in 1851. After the Chicago World’s Fair, Ireland would again display her wares with her own International Exhibition, the ‘Great White Fair’ in Herbert Park, Dublin in 1907.

Approaching the Irish Industrial Village in Chicago, one entered a church-like doorway, a copy of that built on the Rock of Cashel by another Cormac MacCarthaigh, the twelfth century bishop, King of Munster. Through its panels, enriched with mouldings, and heads in low relief, the visitor reached the cloisters of a facsimile Muckross Abbey, the retreats of which were here designed for practicality rather than for prayer. Opening the door of the first apartment, the visitor met with a handsome turf fire over which a pot of wholesome potatoes boiled merrily. Roundabout, men carved furniture, trinkets and articles of church decoration. The visitor progressed through a number of other rooms or cottages in which various industries could be viewed in application. Lovely young ladies, hand-picked in Ireland, spun yarn and busied themselves with lace-making, Aran knitting and crochet work. There were exhibitions of embroidery and bog-oak carving of which there were many fine examples. There was singing, harping and poetry. Three young dairy-maids, namely Johanna Doherty, Kate Barry, and Maria Connolly, graduates of the Munster Dairy School, transported the attendant news reporters from this heartland of American industry to an imaginary Ireland as they cooked up a treat with deft fingers and modern kitchen utensils. Their Alma Mater was described for an American audience as ‘an excellent institution near Cork, where all branches of scientific agriculture are taught, to the great benefit of the people’.

But most acclaimed was the three-story building, set apart from village labours. The replica Blarney Castle enjoyed wonderful success, albeit the Union Jack flying from the top was quickly

Blarney Stone

torn down by a number of hefty Irish-Americans. Fathers and forefathers of so many, who flocked to see the exhibit, had left Ireland, directly or indirectly, as a result of Ireland’s Great Famine.

The name of Ireland, and all that it stood for, continued to infuse them with intense emotion. This Irish village with its replica castle and Blarney stone were as near as most of them would ever be to touching the sod and discharging their pain.

They entered by a winding staircase, from the top of which they crept onto the battlements, risking life and limb, to kiss the magical stone, their experience in no way diminished by the fact that the stone was constructed of plaster cast. The visitors looked down and saw beneath them, laid out in impressive fashion, a full view of Ireland in the form of a large relief map. Every kiss cost just 10c. It was reported that from $50 to $60 dollars/day was being taken by the boy in homespun who collected the coins. The ivy on the old castle walls could not, of course, be reproduced at short notice but, nevertheless, there was considerable justice done to the grand old edifice of Blarney. Had there been time to reproduce some greenery, the romance and pageantry of the occasion might have equalled if not surpassed a trip to dear old Ireland for those second generation Irish-Americans who came to kiss the Blarney Stone and took away its charm.

The above article written by Ms. Myra D. Kavanagh, MSc., and was published by Blarney and District Historical Society in ‘Old Blarney’ Journal Issue 10. She has a long standing interest in local history. Studied local history at Maynooth University and holds an Advanced Diploma in Local History from the University of Cambridge. She has contributed to a number of Cork periodicals including the Mallow Field Club Journal.

The April Lecture, titled, J.C. Fitzmaurice and the Flight of the Bremen is on Thursday 12th April 2018 at 8pm in Scoil Mhuire Gan Smál, (Blarney Secondary School) when Guest Speaker, Mr. Liam O’Brien, tells the fascinating story of an Irish aviator accompanied by two Germans on this very famous flight in 1928 and what became of the now almost forgotten heroes and their famous Junkers w33 aeroplane, ‘The Bremen’. It is the 90th Anniversary of what was the first successful East to West Trans-Atlantic flight. Everybody welcome. Please note date.

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Muskerry News

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Cor Geal invite you to be part of their ‘Celtic Celebration’

Cór Geal are currently working towards their first event of 2018, an exciting concert entitled ‘A Celtic Celebration’. It will be held to coincide with St Patrick’s weekend festivities, aptly enough, in St Patrick’s Church, Whitechurch, on Sunday 18th March at 8pm.

The programme is a gorgeous mix of Irish favourites such as ‘Danny Boy’ and ‘Báidín Fheilimidh’, alongside stunning sacred pieces such as ‘The Holy City’. The programme also includes traditional Irish musicians and a few surprises!

The following are the highlights of Cór Geal’s busy 2017 when three times they filled the Corrin Events Centre in Rathcormac with their gala concert ‘En-Cór’ with funds raised for the Downs Syndrome ‘Field of Dreams’ project in Curraheen.June saw participation in an unusual and exciting event in Blarney when the Heritage Map was launched in the village. Featuring an outdoor, fully costumed and most exciting re-enactment of historial events, this event drew crowds from near and far. After a Summer break to

relax and refresh, the ‘Alleluia’ concert took place in the North Cathedral in October with Linda Kenny and Ryan Morgan. This was a heavenly night of sacred hymns from the past sung in the beautiful setting of this magnificent cathedral.

December was a busy month as, in addition to their highly popular carol services in Whitechurch, the hard working choir also thrilled audiences at the Lord Mayor’s Concert in the City Hall, with guest stars Majella Cullagh, Ryan Morgan and accompanied by the Cork Concert Orchestra. They performed ‘A Christmas Cracker’, a fund-raising concert held in a packed Cloghroe Church featuring Linda Kenny, Ryan Morgan on December 3rd before ending the month on a high note when an intimate group of 20 singers from Cór Geal took part in the ‘Today with Maura agus Dáithí’ show.

Cor Geal choir based in Whitechurch is a mixed choir with approximately 50 members. Since it was founded in 2009 by its conductor Betty Fitzgerald, it has gone from

strength to strength, wowing its audiences along the way. The choir has had great success in competitions such as Feis Maitiu and Kenmare Choral festival and Cork Choral Festival. It has also helped raise over €100,000 for various charities such as the Downs Syndrome ‘Field of Dreams’ project, St Vincent de Paul, Cope, Cancer Care and many more. This talented choir are happy to sing anywhere from the City Hall, the North Cathedral, to the local church or pub, and are most fortunate to have a group of really enthusiastic singers who work well together and with their conductor, Betty Fitzgerald, and love to perform in a range of styles. Admission is €10 for an adult and €5 for a child. Tickets are available in advance from Whitechurch Service Station, Dee O’Mahony on 087 2688853, or any choir member.

Proceeds of a raffle on the night will go directly to Rockbán Ladies Football and Camógie Club and Dogs for the Disabled.

The raffle tickets will be available for purchase at the door.

Onslow Gardens Dental Practice reminds you to shop around!

From the 27th October 2017 the Department of Social Protection reintroduced some of the dental benefits that were withdrawn back in the crash for PRSI eligible patients.

The benefits are as follows: Free examination including routine x-rays once per calendar year.

Subsidised routine scale and polish costing no more than €15 once per calendar year.

A subsidy of €42 towards the cost of periodontal treatment (gum disease).

The subsidy for periodontal treatment is instead of, not in addition to, scale and polish subsidy.

The distinction between a scale and polish and periodontal treatment will be determined by a measurement of 3.5mm or more of bone loss in any area of the mouth.

The cost of periodontal treatment is at the discretion of the dentist/hygienist you attend so price can vary. Shop around!

Winning Ways at

Vicarstown National School

Feis Maitiu 3rd and 4th wins a class merit. We had our first outing to Feis Maitiú this year, with 3rd & 4th class performing in the Choral Speaking 4th class category. The class represented the school with distinction and were delighted to bring away their certificate.

Food Dudes. For 16 consecutive school days, children in the school are getting the opportunity to try free portions of fruit and vegetables at school. Children receive a small reward for trying out the food and are encouraged to increase the amount of fruit and vegetables that they pack in their lunch boxes thereafter. We have run this programme here a number of times over the past few years and we can really see the beneficial impact it has on everyone here.

Debating Team. Congratulations to our 5th & 6th class debating team who won the next round of their debate v Rushbrooke NS in Cobh proposing the topic ‘People should be fined for not recycling’.

We are looking forward to the next round in the debating challenge.

Engineer’s week. We have been doing lots of projects for

Engineer’s Week. 3rd & 4th class have been concentrating on Flotation Devices and have made some lovely boats using recycled materials.

5th & 6th class have done a project on ‘The Digital Classroom’ and Rang Oráiste made this super cable bridge.

Discover Cork, Schools Heritage Project. We are delighted to announce that once again 5th and 6th class picked up 1st place in the Senior Primary Class Project, for their project on The Moving Graveyard of Matehy in the Discover Cork Heritage Project.

Congratulations!

Tin Whistle. Everybody in the school is learning Tin Whistle in school at the moment. Quite timely for Easter as there are lots of versions of ‘Hot Cross Buns!’

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30 Muskerry News

Calling all singers, musicians, story tellers and comedians to Coachford!

Entries are now open for the Coachford heat of the Over 60s Talent Show on Sunday March 25th.

The competition, now in it’s 42nd year is open to anyone from Cork who is over 60. The organisers, Coachford Foróige club are seeking singers, musicians, story tellers or comedians to take part in the Coachford heat. For more information and to enter the competition, contact Karolyne on 086 8678207 or Deirdre on 086 2235901.

The Aghinagh Comhaltas and the Coachford Altlier Art group raised over €4,000 for Marymount Hospice from the sales of their gorgeous and well produced 2018 calendar. They presented the cheque to Anne O’Mahony of the friends of Marymount in O’Callaghan’s Bar. The two groups come together each year to produce and sell this stunning calendar which is full of great paintings from local artists.

Tremendous choral evening in Rylane! The quality was top class, the variety of the songs and music was diverse and entertaining and the soprano, Eimear Collins was mesmerizing. Those in attendance in Rylane Church last weekend for the choral evening fundraiser were taken on a journey from musicals to classics to popular works. The Cork Garda Choir, the Wilcollane Singers and the Bravura String Quartet raised the roof time after time and Eimear Collins raised the hairs on the back of your neck with the emotion she poured into each and every one of her songs. Songs from the operas, the musicals and Billy Joel were interspersed with classical gems from the excellent string quartet. This was a night to be savoured and enjoyed. The fact that it was a celebration for the Rylane Community Park Association who completed the purchase of the ground from the very generous O Sullivan Family this week was an added bonus. This was a fantastic nights entertainment.

Here’s hoping that it will be an annual event. Well done Rylane for giving us something different and the best of luck with the Community Park.

36 pupils from the three schools in the parish were confirmed

by Bishop William Crean in Aghabullogue Church. In a lovely ceremony the boys and girls from Coachford, Aghabullogue and Rylane schools took part in a very well prepared mass. Bishop Crean, assisted in the ceremony by Fr. Peadar Murphy and Fr. Roberts, spoke to the children about their new roles as confirmed children and wished them the best.

Coachford College held a very successful Health Week at the college. The week, organised and run by the Leaving Cert Students saw a number of events taking place across the campus. Students were invited and encourages to take part in an A to Z of events and activities from Aerobics to Zumba classes. A rowing competition in association with the National Rowing Centre, a beep test, squat challenge along with talks on Nutrition were other events kept the students (and teachers) on their toes all week. As part of the Health Week to promote a healthy and active lifestyle the Marie Keating Foundation visited the college and gave talks to senior cycle students on health checks and self-awareness.

The organisers of the Coachford Family Festival have announced the dates of this year’s festival. The very successful event will keep their dates to July again this year with the festival running from Tuesday, July 10 to Sunday July 15th inclusive. The committee behind the festival are already planning new and exciting event for this year’s family extravaganza. Nicola Doherty, Festival PRO said,“ We are super excited about this year’s festival. It seems ages away now but it won’t be long coming around and we are hoping that the fantastic businesses and the community get behind it again this year as they always do.”

Greenway awarded national waymarked trails status! The National Coarse Fishing Federation representing Ireland’s coarse and predator anglers, and Inniscarra Tourism Development Ltd are proud to announce the Coachford Greenway in County Cork has been awarded National Waymarked Trails status from Sport Ireland. This achievement wholly supports our objectives to develop fisheries with facilities that can be used by other outdoor recreational users whilst supporting the environment and our biodiversity. The 2.8km linear park is a purpose built off-road trail developed to provide a safe recreational facility for walkers, cyclists and anglers. The walkway has been graded as Easy and provides for a 1hr 30-minute leisurely walk or 30 min cycle ride. En route visitors can enjoy beautiful flora and fauna; animals and birdlife that live on or near the water to include Heron’s, Kingfishers, Geese and the occasional sea eagle. At the trailhead there is free parking for over 20 cars with vehicular access to the walkway itself limited.

Anglers can access the trail by signing for a key at O’Callaghan’s Bar in Coachford. There is a 15kph speed limit and plenty of layby areas to keep the route safe for walkers and cyclists. The venue also presents perfect viewing opportunities for rowing activities on the lake being situated directly opposite the Rowing Ireland Headquarters. The trail is clearly signposted and just 2km from all the facilities of the village of Coachford. This along with easy access to a number of towns and villages in the Lee Valley provides a further boost for domestic and overseas tourism in the area.

Cloghroe National School

Dreaming big during Engineers Week!

Engineers Week was a very busy week for the children. They began the week with a screening of the film ‘Dream Big’ in the halla at assembly. Throughout the week, all classes around the school were busy experimenting and exploring many engineering concepts such as gravity, friction and air pressure.

Genius Hour projects

Third class pupils exceeded all expectations with the quality of their Genius Hour projects. During genius hour, students of all levels are empowered to explore their own passions. The children firstly create a project proposal and explore different research methodologies.

The pupils then research their topics both in school and home and create their finished project/product. Topics included knitting, baking, lizards, engines and soccer teams to mention but a few! It was a wonderful opportunity to share knowledge with their peers.

Basketball Blitz

On Thursday February 8th, sixth class children enjoyed a noncompetitive mixed basketball blitz in Neptune Stadium. Thanks to Mr. Whitty and Mr. Kelly for training them over the past few months.

Special visitors

Two very cute calves visited the children and the children learned a lot about them, including what they like to eat, where they sleep and why they have yellow tags on their ears. They could not believe the calves were only 7 days old!

Aistear - The Circus

Aistear continues in junior and senior infants. In Senior Infants, it’s Circus Time and the children have been doing lots of different activities including making their own clowns, threading boards, creating a circus with small world toys, making finger puppets to have their own circus at home, and best of all, being real circus performers. They have learned how to juggle, how to balance how to throw and catch, while listening to circus music - just like real circus clowns. It has been really exciting!

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32 Muskerry News

Behind the Castle Walls

It has been an extremely busy month here in the gardens. As I’m writing this we have a mad panic on as we try to wrap up a lot of our more tender plants to protect against the predicted big freeze. Spring WAS definitely on its way. There are little splashes of colour around every corner as the bulbs start am d with A to wake up from their winter slumbers.

Buds are bursting here and there, and the frogs have been busy in our pond.

Let’s hope it isn’t as bad as they are predicting.

All the work that’s been going on is finally starting to come together. We have completed our new wooden bridge below the castle. It is primarily made up of locally sourced timber, including oak hand rails from one of our own storm casualties and a local cedar. I’m very pleased with how it’s turned out. We are also in the process of replacing our entrance bridge with a new steel structure. This is also nearing completion.

The new toilets and cafe building at the main entrance is keeping us all busy, and we are currently planning the landscaping around it. It’s a big building and I feel it will benefit from some greenery to soften the edges and break things up. We are also allowing for construction of raised stone planters which will be filled with summer bedding to provide additional colour around the cafe seating areas.

With all the projects going on it’s easy to forget that the usual seasonal gardens work is also required. We are currently renovating our herbaceous borders, moving shrubs, mulching beds and paths, pruning roses, undertaking assorted tree work, including felling and tidying from winter storms and planting up new saplings in our woodlands using native home grown oaks. In the kitchen garden we are planting potatoes as the soil dries out. Sow seeds of bedding plants, tomatoes and peppers and plant out onions, garlic and shallots if not already done.

Pollinate peach, nectarine and apricot trees with a small paint brush. Ours are just coming into flower now. Let’s hope they survive. Pruning of apples and pears should be finished now.

We are starting off our begonia tubers in the poly tunnel. They provide a mass of summer colour to our tubs and baskets around the entrance, and are remarked on every year.

I’ve started planning this year’s Blarney in Bloom with Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind, which will take place in the grounds of the castle on Sunday 15th of July from 10am until 5pm. The event is going from strength to strength and offers access to the grounds and gardens as part of the entry fee, which is €8, with children under 12 free. Last year we raised over €36,000 for the Irish Guide Dogs which was a record. I hope we do even better this time around. I look forward to seeing you in the gardens..

Adam

Una McGlynn, Brook Food. and Linda Moynihan, AIB Blarney, at the Cork Chamber networking event titled ‘Clock Out and Connect’.

pic Darragh Kane

Junior and Senior Infants at Gaelscoil Mhuscraí went on a tour of Blarney Garda Station recently with community Garda Seán as tour guide! Go raibh maith agat, a Sheán!

Muskerry News

John Wiseman, Jean Shanahan, Kevin Condon, Kate Kearney and Iris Wilkins McCarthy have the ‘Gift of the Gab’ when it comes to selling your property.

4 Windsor Court, Windsor Hill, Glounthaune. €185,000 DNG Murphy Condon in joint agency with DNG Creedon are proud to present to the market for sale by public auction.

This two bedroom detached bungalow is located in small exclusive development of just 4 only homes. Bright and spacious accommodation with open plan living/kitchen/dining areas with double patio doors leading to patio gardens, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and utility room BER: C1 BER No.107539728 153 Kilnap Place, Farranree. €158,000 Refurbished 3 bedroom mid terrace property with off street parking for one car, ideally located within walking distance of local amenities. Ideal starter home or investment property with potential to extend.

BER: D2 BER No.103974812 3 The Orchard, Woodville, Glanmire. €245,000 3 bedroom townhouse in a safe and secure cul-de-sac location.

With recent property sales figures indicating a steady rise in property prices in the suburbs of Cork City, this property will be sure to be top of the astute buyers list.

BER: B3 BER No.100175934 13 Spring View Terrace, Blackpool. €230,000 This spacious property has retained some of the character of yesteryear with two spacious reception rooms, extended kitchen dining room, utility room, and guest WC, under stairs storage. Two double and one single bedroom and main bathroom. Spiral Stairs lead to two attic room, with good ceiling height. This property has to be viewed to be appreciated.

BER: D2 BER No.107494684

Monard, Rathpeacon. €320,000 Family living is made easy in this spacious 4/5 bedroom bungalow which commands magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. This home is perfect for everyone, ideal for the growing family or those seeking a property with a granny flat, this home will tick that box also as it can easily be converted into two independent living quarters.

BER: D1 BER No.107198426 12 Thorndale Estate, Dublin Hill. €185,000 Three bed end of terrace property with enclosed front garden and walled in back yard/patio area.

Ideal starter home located to the front of the estate. Current rental income €900 per month.

Ideal starter home/investment property.

BER: E1 BER No.109852632 17 Glenview Terrace, Old Youghal Road. €170,000 Two bedroomed terraced townhouse offering every convenience to local services.

This well maintained property has a sunny south facing rear garden. The property has the benefit of coming for sale with full house contents if required.

BER: D2 BER No.101366029 Bunglanna, Glenville. €300,000 Impressive recently constructed family residence of c.2,978 sq ft.property, located just 6 Miles outside the Village of Watergrasshill, with easy access to the N.8 Dublin road.

The property is set on nearly 1 acre of established gardens with mature trees and shrubs. The property is bright and spacious featuring entrance hall, 2 large reception rooms, open plan kitchen/dining/utility, ground floor office, two ground floor bathrooms, and games room to rear. Upstairs there are five bedrooms (master bed en-suite) and interconnecting en-suite to bedrooms 4 & 5 and main bathroom.

BER: B3 BER No.108806530

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34 Muskerry News pic Mike English

pic Mike English

Carrignavar National School who were runners up to Riverstown Ovens National School who played in the Allianz Sciath na Scol Premier Indoor Camogie finals at Na Piarsaigh. in the Allianz Sciath na Scol Indoor Premier Camogie final.

Awards all round for Grenagh Ladies Junior and Minor football and camogie players

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36 Muskerry News

Mark is Muskerry GAA

Supreme Sports Star of the Year!

pics Mike English

Fionn Warren, Kilmurry, Brian Hurley, Eire Og, Robert Burke, Ballincollig and Adam O’Connell, Inniscarra attending the Muskerry GAA Gala Awards Night at Oriel Hotel.

Mark Coleman, Blarney, was selected as Muskerry GAA Supreme Sports Star of the Year at the Division’s Gala Award’s Night.

Brian Cotter (left above), Ballincollig GAA, who was selected on the Muskerry Junior Hurling Team of the Year, being congratulated by Emma Holland, Ovens. While above right, Evelyn and John Kelly, The Muskerry Division Junior Football Team of the Year 2017 Ballincollig also enjoy the celebrations. photographed at the Gala Sports awards Night at Oriel Hotel.

Included are Cormac Quish, SuperValu Ballincollig, sponsors and Pat Malone, Chairman Muskerry Division.

The Muskerry Junior Hurling Team of the Year 2017 included are Frank Walsh of O’Mahony, Walsh Auctioneers and Insurance Brokers, Patsy and Mary Foley with Bina and Sean Barry, Donoughmore. sponsors and Pat Malone, Chairman Muskerry Division GAA.

Anne and Bryan O’Donovan, MJK Oils.

Members of the Creed family, Clondrohid and Coleman family, Blarney, attending the Awards Night.

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38 Muskerry News

Blarney GAA news

www.blarneygaa.ie

Blarney GAA Medals Night

On Friday 23rd Blarney GAA held their Medals Presentation night.

Both our Junior A footballers and Junior B hurlers collected medals.

Our footballers receiving medals for winning the Mid Cork League and our hurlers for winning both their Mid Cork League and Championships.

It was the last of many Presentation nights for Frankie Downey and Donal O’Donovan who stepped down after a decade of service to the Junior B team.

Car Boot Sale

Our first car boot sale of 2018 will take place on Monday April 2nd.

The cost of entry is €10 for a car, €15 for a van and €2 entry for customers. Free entry for club members.

The club grounds open at 7am for sellers.

NO BOOKING REQUIRED, just show up on the day!

Please note that gates close for sellers at 10am.

If you require any further information, please contact Ray Coleman on 087 233 3180 or email pro.blarney.cork@gaa.ie and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Defibrillator Training

We also had the presentation of cheques to two local charities Meals on Wheels and St. Vincent DePaul. These monies were raised from our St. Stephen’s Day Long Puc. We must thank our main sponsors and organiser of this event, Frankie Downey of Blarney Sofa Factory, they show massive support every year and it could not happen without this support.

Special thanks also to Ian and Una Forrest of the Castle Hotel for hosting us and treating us to a beautiful meal.

Blarney GAA and Blarney Camogie club will hold defibrillator training courses on Saturday March 24th. There is both a morning and afternoon course.

If you are interested in attending, please contact Anne Coleman 087 123 4161 to book your place. The course is free of charge for Blarney GAA and Blarney camogie club members.

Those who complete the course will get a certificate which is valid for 2 years.

Rebel Easter Camp

Rebel Club Easter Camps are back again and are going ahead in Blarney GAA from March 26th to 29th. The camp is for ages 5-11 years.

Registration will take place in Blarney GAA Saturday 24th from 10am. - 1pm. Places are limited so confirmation via text is required before registration day.

Blarney GAA news

Muskerry News

www.blarneygaa.ie

39

Intercounty Championship games involving Cork Hurlers and Footballers.

Free entry to all car boot sales held in Blarney.

Being an official member of the most famous and traditional organisation in the country and being registered officially with Croke Park.

For members 18 years and over, access to GRMA (go raibh maith agat) which is the new GAA Membership Card programme providing benefits and rewards to you, as a GAA member. Using the Card or membership number will enable GAA Members to benefit from partner discounts, special offers and earn points for going to games.

Giving support to your club, both financially through the membership fee but more importantly through participation in club activities.

Having a say through voting rights in how the club is run at the AGM. Exclusive discounts to Eoin Murphy Fitness and rental of club facilities for party bookings.

Membership Discounts; 10% off rental of club facilities for party bookings. www.eoinmurphyfitness.ie offers members the following benefits; Free personal training with your first unlimited class pass at EMF Free 8 class pass with every level 1 personal training membership purchased

U21 Football Championship

To book a place text Robbie on 086 1551045. The children will be coached by Mark Coleman, Shane Kingston, Darragh Fitzgibbon and Robbie O’Flynn for four days.

Hope to see you all there!

2018 membership now open

Membership subscriptions alone do not cover the full costs to run our club. Every year we rely on members, sponsors and supporters engaging in fundraising activities to make up the difference.

2018 will also see the introduction of a new membership category, Social Membership, for €10. This introductory membership offer is available to all parents/guardians of boys under the age of 18 who are full members. It is also available to wife’s and partners of full adult playing members. This category is for those who wish to support our club but not seek full voting rights, participate with a team or any administrative affairs of the Club. This membership category does not allow draw entry for All Ireland tickets or eligible for membership discounts.

Blarney GAA Club have a close association to Blarney Camogie Club and recognise many families have daughters who play camogie.

This coming season, families will now have the opportunity to avail of a Family Membership for €200. This membership category will give Blarney GAA Club membership to both the non playing parents/guardians and all boys under the age of 18, while also including Blarney Camogie Club membership to all girls in the family who play camogie. Fantastic value.

By paying online, members have the option to pay over four monthly instalments.

Benefits of membership include; Complete use of the all weather pitch for club activities.

Playing members have access to the club gym and a certified strength, conditioning and fitness coach.

Players participating in official club playing activities have benefit cover under the GAA Injury Benefit Fund see www.gaa.ie for full details.

Eligible to apply for and purchase tickets through the club for

Our U21 footballers with the management team of Paul O’Leary, Eoghan Murphy and Conor Foley got their championship campaign underway recently with an impressive 1-8 to 0-7 win over Ballinora in Rathpeacon.

We caught up with manager Paul O’Leary before the fixture...

Championship draw. First round v Ballinora, it has been difficult to get challenge matches but we had a good game against clyda.

How has pre-season gone? The lads have put in a great effort since before Christmas. Paul Holland took one of your sessions which was really excellent and the lads enjoyed it.

Goals for year. Get as many U21 players out playing & enjoying football and be competitive in championship How big is your squad? Approx 25 players Biggest messer? Pa O’Connell Laziest? Alan McEvoy Highlight/Funniest moment of the year so far? MJ Shine handpassing a sideline kick during a challenge game Mallow Road Motors are thrilled to announce Cork hurler, 2017 All Star and local legend, Mark Coleman as a brand ambassador for our KIA showroom at Blarney Business Park.

Mark can be seen collecting his 181 KIA Cee’d from Pio Cafferkey.

Best of luck to Mark and the Rebels for 2018!

40 Muskerry News

Well done to all who took part in the inaugural Blarney 10 mile road race last month in beautiful sunshine. First over the line was Mícheál Dunne for the men, and Maura Hughes was the first woman. Thanks to Susan O’Sullivan for the photographs.

Congratulations to Liam Griffin who recently received a lifetime achievement award from CMAP for his commitment to Martial Arts since 1979. Liam, who heads the hugely successful Cúram de Cara Karate Club, has seen his students achieve incredible medal successes around the world.

Cúram de Cara, previously known as Blarney Karate Club which trained in the old TA Hall in Station Road since 1979, now operates from Christy’s Health Studios Blarney and hold weekly classes for adults, and children from 5 years and upwards.

They are affiliated to the Irish Karate-Do Federation (IKF), Irish Martial Arts Advisory Council (IMAC) and the World Union of Karate Federations (WUKF) and their instructors are all highly Pictured at the North City and District Sports Awards were June qualified adult Black Belts, Garda vetted and have received training winner Mark Coleman, Blarney & Cork Hurling, and August in first aid and child protection. winner Amy Murphy, Silver Medalist U18 European Basketball To find out more follow them on facebook at www.facebook.com/ Championship. curamdecara or email liam.griffin.cdc@gmail.com

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Mark O’Driscoll, Secretary of the Allianz Sciath na Scol Indoor Games Committee, presenting the Camogie Championship trophy to Shauna Sheahan, captain Whitechurch NS following their win over Glounthaune at Na Piarsaigh.

Shauna hold the trophy aloft!

Rathpeacon NS team who took part in the finals of the Allianz Sciath na Scol Hurling Championship at Na Piarsaigh. pics Mike English

John Lane has been involved with Cumann Camogaíochta Inis Cártha for the best part of twenty years, getting involved at a very early stage in the purchase and development of their pitch beginning in 2000. As a Civil Engineer, his advice and guidance in relation to many pitch design details was absolutely invaluable. Apart from his technical skills, John loves hand on and is no stranger to the pick and shovel when needed, with no job too big or too small, be it re-sodding goals or placing ball stop nets, all grist to John’s mill.

From the time they opened our pitch in July 2004 John has worked on maintaining the pitch in tip top condition right to the present day. As well as all the practical work John has also been chairman of Cumann Camogaíochta Inis Cártha for two terms of three years each; 2005 to 2007 and again 2011 to 2013.

Our photograph shows John Lane receiving his presentation for Cork Volunteer of 2017 from President of Camogie Catherine Neary at a dinner in Croke Park.

Congratulations to local athlete Hannah Falvey, who runs for Belgooly AC, for her latest success at the Munster Champions indoor individual in Nenagh. Hannah took medals in the Girls U13, winning Gold in the 60m Sprints, second in the shot put and long jump and third place in the 60m hurdles.

Kerry Road, Tower, County Cork

Limited places available

for free pre-school year (ECCE*) September 2018 Afternoon Session 12.30noon - 3.30pm Contact Tricia on 085 7634 734 / 021 4382519

*Children must be 2 years 8 months by September to start on the ECCE scheme.

42 Muskerry News

At the Cork 96FM & C103 14th Annual GAA Sports Star Awards at the Rochestown Park Hotel were Denis and John O’Donovan Blarney. pic Tony O’Connell Photography

To mark Dr. Con Murphy’s voluntary work for decades of Cork Hurling and Football teams, on and off the field, he was presented with a Cork Person of the Month award. As team Doctor, mentor and friend he helped many young Cork inter-county and UCC players for over 40 years. pic Tony O’Connell Photography

Mallow Road Motors are thrilled to announce Cork hurler, 2017 All Star and local legend, Mark Coleman as a brand ambassador for their KIA showroom at Blarney Business Park. Mark can be seen collecting his 181 KIA Cee’d from Pio Cafferkey.

Kevin O’Connell and Cian MacKenzie, Muskerry rugby club, presenting Kay Harkins with her hamper, sponsored by O’Leary’s SuperValu Tower, which she won in the draw to raise funds for the U12’s trip to Paris in April.

Muskerry News Job Opportunities

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Job Opportunities

Drop your CV into Susan, Dan or John in Spar Lissarda or by e-mail to reception@olearyslissarda.ie

Services Available Painter and Decorator Registered professional Free quotations Contact Denis on 087 2986 951 /021 4874868 Dermot Casey Tree Care All tree problems solved without delay.

Free quotations & fully insured.

Call the experts on 022-55000 www.dermotcaseytreecare.ie All Doggie Hair Doo’s 086 8478762 Don’t forget your Best Friend!

Full grooming service and wash only available. Puppies & large breeds welcome. Late evening appts on request. Gift Vouchers available. Why not drop your doggie for grooming whilst you shop at Blackpool Shopping Centre? 086 8478762 O’Connell Window Cleaning Blarney Contact Donal 087 6592697 or 4383407 (after 6pm)

The Irish Wheelchair Association seeks to recruit

qualified nurses

for night work and/or weekend mornings in Blarney as part of a two person team, the other being a Personal Assistant.

The role includes supporting a good natured young man, with significant disabilities, in his own home.

Excellent working conditions. Standard Nursing rates apply.

Night shifts from 10pm to 8am weekdays & 9am weekends & Public Holidays.

Part time hours/ morning shifts available.

For more information contact

Trish on 087 7589099

Dog Minding €15 per night Small dogs only please.

Leave your dog with us for the holidays as a guest in our home.

Blarney village.

Isobel Ledwith 021 4381455 Must have a dog licence Funky Forrest Old School Disco - 087 764 1088 Specialising in 70’s/80’s Available for parties, weddings, special occasions, corporate events. Book early to ensure availability. www.martinforrest.com

Services Available Tired of being alone?

Two Hearts Meet are Munster’s leading professional dating agency. Call or text today and we will help you find your special someone! twoheartsdating.com 085 7742444 Dog Minding at Home Leave your dog with us while you are away on holiday or overnight. Your pet will be a guest in our home and treated as part of the family.

Countryside location just outside of Blarney. No kennels.

Competitive rates.

Give Joanne a call for a chat or a visit on 089 9671402.

O’Connell Chimney Cleaning Blarney. Stoves and Open Fires Contact Darren at 087 653 3480 Driving Lessons Beginner/Pre test ADI approved instructor. Very patient. Test routes covered.

Car available for test.

Gift vouchers available.

Blarney School of Motoring. blarneyschoolofmotoring.com 087 2796008 It’s time to clean your carpets!

Blarney & District Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning Service.

No job too small.

087 6384396.

Downey Floor Sanding Floor Sanding & Sealing.

Old and new floors sanded and varnished. Floor fitting service.

Contact Jeremy at 4516901/ 087 2372213 www.downeyfloorsanding.com

44 Muskerry News

Muskerry News

muskerry motoring

Blarney Cycling Club

would like to thank Marie Crowley and the Crowley Family for allowing the club to host the Sportive in honour of Donal, the selected charities this year were Rebel Wheelers and Pieta House. The rain failed to dampen spirits and all participants can be very proud of their achievements on a challenging day and route. Events like this

do not just happen, it is the result of months of hard work from all club members and the generosity of people that ensure the smooth running of such events on the day.

Blarney Cycling Club would like to thank, in no particular order, all the cyclists, who came from near and far, despite the poor forecast, the marshalls, ambulance crew, motorcyclists and lead drivers who gave their time to ensure the safety of everyone,

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SuperValu Tower who generously donated refreshments, Blarney Castle Hotel who permitted us to use their facilities for sign on and the after event meal, Kanturk’s finest photographer Jim Mc Sweeney was on hand to deliver some great action shots and the extremely talented Sean Rowe who travelled all the way from Wexford to take amazing pictures. Thank you all!

46 Muskerry News

Muskerry News

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48 Muskerry News