Kilkenny Observer 16th July 2021

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Friday 16 July 2021

Food & Drink Mixing the best summer cocktails  See page 19

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Travel Special Freddie Mercury … and Zanzibar  See page 42

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The Kilkenny

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Are we there yet?

Confusion and inconsistency on the menu AFTER months and months of lockdown, restaurants, pubs and cafes will soon be able to welcome customers back indoors again – although there is uncertainty and confusion over exactly when, July 19, 23 or 26?

And there is confusion too over who exactly will get access to indoors – the vaccinated only? Will you need the EU digital cert? Is that coming by email or An Post to you? And what about the kids?

Serious concerns over the Government’s reopening plan for indoor dining were raised by Opposition TDs during a briefing amid warnings that it could create “confusion and inconsistency”.

Even the Government admits the plan is not perfect.

It seems certain rules will have to be followed for eating and drinking inside but not every one is sure of what exactly those rules are.

An exact date for the return of indoor hospitality has yet to be announced, but the Government is aiming for Friday, July 23. This date is dependant on legislation passing through the Oireachtas in the coming days and being signed off on by President Michael D Higgins early next week.

Customers can dine and drink indoors as long as they produce “verifiable evidence of vaccination or immunity status” – for most people this will be the new EU Digital Covid Cert which is beginning to be sent out this week to people who are fully jabbed.

This will be checked, along with a customer’s ID, by hospitality staff. Once verified, this data will not be retained by the cafe, bar or restaurant.

Tourists visiting Ireland from outside the EU, including Britain, Northern Ireland and the US will also have to present an equivalent document to in order to be served indoors.

EVERY FRIDAY

Children under the age of 18 will be allowed indoors only if they are accompanied by a fully vaccinated or recovered parent or guardian.

It seems Gardaí will not carry out spot checks like last summer when they checked diners were being served a €9 meal with their pint, instead it will fall to HSE environmental officers and officials with the Health and Safety Authority to check the rules are being followed.

Leo Varadkar Tanaister has said the public will be trusted to comply with the new rules.

However, anyone found to have forged a medical document to ssow they have been vaccinated or recovered from Covid-19 faces a €2,000 fine and/or a month in prison.

Tánaiste Leo Varadkar has said pharmacies may soon offer antigen tests to allow those who receive negative results dine inside.

Ireland, at the time of going to press, has one of the lowest numbers of people in hospital or intensive care with coronavirus per million population, according to Ireland’s health watchdog.

Only the Czech Republic, Denmark, Israel and Norway have fewer Covid-19 patients.

The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) published an updated international review submitted to the National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet) on public health measures and strategies to limit the spread of the virus.

HIQA found restrictions continue to be eased across 18 of the 19 countries in the review.

Meanwhile, only one in three phone calls made on Wednesday the 14th to the emergency Covid travel cert helpline were physically answered by an operator.

Around 2,300 people “gave up” on their calls, according to Junior Minister Ossian Smyth.

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€24m for extra 4.6k for college

The Government is expected to okay a €24m package to fund an extra 4,620 Third Level places.

About 3,300 of them are because of demand of a record 84,526 CAO applications, coupled with the fiercest ever competition among schoolleavers for high-points courses.

The package includes 440 new places in health sciences.

A Kilkenny Welcome: Newly-weds Jane White and Ronak Modi got a wonderful hello and hearty congratulations after their wedding in the Marble City. PHOTO Vicky Comerford

Keep it local

A new national campaign by the Local Enterprise Office, just launched, is asking consumers in County Kilkenny to look local when they are shopping for products, services and experiences this summer.

Page 10

See story, Page 4

Frisby apology over exes errors after RTE expose KILKENNY County Councillor Ger Frisby (FF) has said he erroneously “and due to a failure to follow the guidelines as set down in the Local Government (Expenses of Local Authority Members) Regulations 2014-2017, claims were submitted on my behalf to the Kilkenny-Carlow ETB which exceeded that which are provided for under the regulations, by €745.92”.

Cllr Frisby issued a statement to The Kilkenny Observer following the airing of an RTE Investigations report on councillors and expenses.

He told this paper that on Monday, June 21 he received a written correspondence from the RTÉ Prime Time Investigates Unit in relation to a programme which aired [the next evening].

Cllr Frisby, a board member

GETTING IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM

of Kilkenny Carlow Education and Training Board and of the Governing Body of Carlow IT, claimed €1,545 in expenses and fees for a four-day period in September 2018 for a number of overlapping meetings involving the three organisations.

In a statement to RTÉ, Cllr Frisby said he apologised and is in the process of repaying the €820 he over-claimed.

Full report, Page 6

‘Pay child benefit’

Sinn Féin TD Kathleen Funchion, has called on the Government to pay child benefit in respect of 16-18 year olds over the summer months, following an outcry over the situation.

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INSIDE

Paul Hopkins..........................P8 John Ellis..............................P16 Health & Science.................P18 Food & Wine.........................P19 Picture Special.....................P24 Ger Cody...............................P28 Travel & Leisure..................P42 TV & Streaming..................P43

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We’re all ready to welcome you!

KILKENNY County Council launched its ‘Kilkenny Welcome Team’ initiative recently. The Welcome Team are a group of over 21 trained volunteers who will meet and greet visitors to Kilkenny, providing a warm Kilkenny welcome along with visitor information over the summer months.

Officially launched by Kilkenny’s Cathaoirleach and Mayor, this innovative initiative was first developed in 2020 by Kilkenny County Council, in association with Kilkenny Tourism and the Kilkenny Tourism Recovery Task Force.

The Kilkenny Welcome Team will be strategically placed at high footfall locations around Kilkenny City to provide a range of information from opening hours to local attractions, nearby toilet facilities, pharmacists, ATM locations, train and bus times.

All Kilkenny Welcome Team volunteers are fully trained in Covid-19 protocols; public safety and comfort will be a priority at all times. Volunteers will only engage when asked and will not impose on any visitors uninvited.

Commenting on the initiative, Cathaoirleach Cllr Fidelis Doherty said: “After a difficult year for tourism and hospitality, many people want to help to promote the recovery of the

Read Mile Failte: Kilkenny Welcome Team with Cathaoirleach Cllr. Fidelis Doherty and Mayor of Kilkenny Municipal District, Cllr. Andrew McGuinness PHOTO: Vicky Comerford

City and county and are giving their valuable time in volunteering to be part of the initiative.

The Kilkenny Welcome Team also provides an opportunity for individuals to put the Kilkenny jersey on and play a meaningful role in the recovery process.”

Mayor Andrew McGuinness said: “The launch of the Kilkenny Welcome Team demonstrates the commitment of the County Council in supporting the local economic recovery and to support businesses to adapt and maximise the remainder of

the 2021 season.”

Tourism Officer with Kilkenny County Council, Martina Comerford said; “The Kilkenny Welcome Team is a great example of how the community can join forces in an effort to drive tourism and hospital-

ity in our County. Kilkenny has always been renowned for giving visitors a warm welcome, and now with the help of the volunteers; this on-the-ground approach from local people will show how Kilkenny really cares about its visitors.”

Warning on farm fatalities THE latest report from the Health and Safety Authority on workplace fatalities is a reminder of the dangers of working on farms, IFA Farm Family Chair Caroline Farrell has said.

A total of 23 people lost their lives on farms in 2020. Of those, 12 were over 65.

“We will continue to promote best practice to reduce the risk on farms. There is a particular issue with the age profile of our sector, which is part of a wider debate on measures needed to encourage young blood and generational renewal,” Ms Farrell said.

Farm Safety Week will begin on Monday, July 19. Now in its ninth year, the week sees the Irish Farmers Association working alongside the UK’s Farm Safety Partnership to bring the message of ‘Rethink Safety’ to the farming community.

The theme reminds farmers of just how important it is to think safety and wellbeing first.

A number of initiatives are planned to encourage and promote best practice.

Two virtual ‘Farm Safe & Wellbeing’ forums will be run that will cover a range of safety topics and issues, as well as looking at supporting our physical and mental wellbeing.

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Frisby apology over exes error following Prime Time airing KILKENNY County Councillor Ger Frisby has said he erroneously “and due to a failure to follow the guidelines as set down in the Local Government (Expenses of Local Authority Members) Regulations 20142017, claims were submitted on my behalf to the Kilkenny-Carlow ETB which exceeded that which are provided for under the regulations, by €745.92”.

Cllr Frisby issued a statement to The Kilkenny Observer following the airing of an RTE Investigations report on councillors and expenses.

He told this paper: “On Monday, June 21 I received a written

correspondence from the RTÉ Prime Time Investigates Unit in relation to a programme which aired [the next evening] concerning councillors’ expenses related to conferences, training seminars and meetings of external bodies. In that written correspondence the RTÉ Investigates Unit brought three discrepancies to my attention in relation to travel and subsistence Cllr Frisby: failed to payfollow guidelines

ments I claimed for my attendance of events as a board member of the Kilkenny-Carlow ETB in 2017 and 2018.

“The events in question which I attended in my capacity as a Kilkenny-Carlow ETB board member were: The IPB Insurance AGM in Dublin on Friday, 28th April 2017.

Kilkenny-Carlow ETB Child Protection Training in Carlow on Thursday, 8th

March 2018. The ETBI Annual Conference in Naas from Wednesday 26th – Friday 28th September 2018, Cllr Frisby’s statement said.

“In an error on my behalf and due to a failure to follow the guidelines as set down in the Local Government (Expenses of Local Authority Members) Regulations 2014-2017, claims were submitted on my behalf to the Kilkenny-Carlow ETB which exceeded that which are provided for under the regulations, by €745.92. This is the exact figure as agreed after consulting the Finance Department of the Kilkenny-Carlow

ETB. This arose because of my attendance at additional events on the same dates on behalf of Kilkenny County Council and IT Carlow for which I also submitted a claim for travel and subsistence.

“I am deeply embarrassed by my mistake and having informed the Chief Executive of the Kilkenny-Carlow ETB in writing about what was brought to my attention I have since fully repaid the amount claimed in error.”

His statement continued: “For absolute clarity, I can confirm that I attended all events on all dates in question for which I

Glanbia plant should go ahead says IFA

Time for us all to go bananas and get in shape ...

MORE 70,000 young people and parents answered the call of Irish world boxing champion Kellie Harrington and track and field Olympian, David Gillick (both pictured), by tuning in to their 12week online Fyffes Fit Squad programme, aimed at encouraging children and families to adopt a more healthy and active lifestyle.

Launched in March, and created so that teachers and parents could also participate, the series of interactive videos saw

Kellie and David demonstrate new workout routines whilst giving advice on overall wellbeing and healthy-eating.

Last year, Fit Squad went online when schools were forced to close. With hundreds now awaiting visits, Fyffes says it is looking forward to resuming live sessions in schools ‘once it is deemed safe to do so’.

Mums, dads and little ones looking to keep active over Summer can still follow the fitness videos at www.fyffesfitsquad.ie

Plan welcomed for road back from Covid IBEC, the group that represents Irish business, has twelcomed the announcement from Government of its Pathways to Work 2021-2025 strategy.

Ibec Head of Social Policy Dr Kara McGann said: “Today’s announcement is recognition that the foundation of economic re-

covery will be underpinned by investing in people, skills and talent.

Business particularly welcomes the strategy’s focus on addressing youth unemployment, given the potential long-term scarring effects of the pandemic on this crucial cohort of the labour market, who have been disproportion-

ately impacted by Covid.”

Dr McGann said the Pathways to Work strategy provided an opportunity to ensure that investment in skills development and reskilling is accelerated and aligned with the needs of the labour market. For this to be impactful, collaboration between

employers, further and higher education providers and Intreo and the Public Employment Services must be encouraged and supported.

“The strategy is a recognition of the pace of change presently underway in our labour force, highlighting the need for agility in

labour market policies and upskilling investments.

“Business hopes that this strategy will remain fluid to enable it to respond swiftly to this dynamic and uncertain environment as we emerge from the pandemic, and the impact it and Brexit has had on the economy and labour market.”

New bus service will transform cross-city travel A TOTAL of 41 areas in Kilkenny will be serviced by a new city bus service, with buses will run every half-hour.

The new service will be ready for November after Kilkenny County Council confirmed it has chosen the Galway-based City Direct to run the service.

claimed travel and subsistence payments. However, that does not excuse my error in not following the guidelines in accordance with the Local Government (Expenses of Local Authority Members) Regulations 2014-2017.

“I have offered my sincere apologies to the Kilkenny-Carlow ETB for this error and have also informed the Chief Executive of Kilkenny County Council and the Chairperson of the Governing Body of IT Carlow of the above including the steps taken to repay the KilkennyCarlow ETB, “ his statement concluded.

Kilkenny Councillor Andrew McGuinness said: “I’m delighted to see the service come into effect, it’s been a long time coming and there have been a few delays; “To coincide with the announcement that City Direct has won the contract to provide the service, Kilkenny Council has been install-

ing the bus stops throughout the city for the two bus routes.”

The service will have 41 stops on two routes, the red and green route. The two will run East to West (Green Route) and North to South (Red) and will connect St Luke’s and the Freshford Road to the Dublin Road, and the Castle-

comer Road to the Bohernatounish Road Business Park. Both routes will cross in the city centre and continue out to the Ring road.

If the bus service proves popular, the council will in the future look to expand the service.There are areas that would want a bus stop not included in the service yet.

THE President of the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA), Tim Cullinan, said the Glanbia cheese plant should proceed without delay after an application by An Taisce to seek leave to apply to the Court of Appeal has been turned down.

The project has now been fully considered by Kilkenny County Council, An Bord Pleanála, the High Court and this latest application.

On each occasion, the process has found in favour of developing the plant.

“The decision not to allow a further hearing of An Taisce’s objection to the Glanbia cheese plant is the fourth time the project has been upheld,” he said.

“An Taisce has a prescribed role in the planning system, but they also have a duty to act responsibly. On each occasion, the process has found everything is in order.

Objecting for the sake of it is an abuse of the system,” he said.

The Glanbia project was designed as a response to the challenge from Brexit and the need for our sector to diversify its products and seek new markets.

“As the most exposed sector in the country, it’s reckless of any organisation to obstruct a valid initiative that is designed to safeguard the livelihoods of farm families and the rural economy in the south east,” he said.

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The Fact Of The Matter PAUL HOPKINS

My al fresco dining hits a dead-end street ...

“I’VE had my two jabs,” I say to the tall, pony-tailed waitress with the grey-blue eyes, wonderfully pronounced because the rest of her countenance is covered in a mask.

She looks with disinterest at me, the grey-blue eyes darting back and forth as she places a large jug of water on our table.

“I’ve had my vaccines so you can talk to me without fear of getting Dengue fever...”

She is unusually pretty but has no sense of humour, or maybe she is just used to old guys like me for ever trying to chat her up.

“Please put your mask back on until your food arrives, jab or no jab,” she says sternly and moves off.

I think I’m in love.

My daughter looks at me.

“Dad, stop...” she says firmly.

“What?” I say and lean forward and look at my first child with her different co-

loured eyes — heterichromia it’s called and is a sign (naturally, she being mine) of intelligence. “You know, this could be the last time I come out of a lockdown. At my age, the next one could well be a sort of permeant arrangement.”

“Maybe, you need a therapist,” she smiles, somewhat sardonically. “ You mean a counsellor.

You’re watching too much American TV,” I smile back.

“What I need is a good woman — and something to eat.”

This moment has long been waited for. Restaurants depleted by an 18-month-long crisis have swung open their doors, albeit al fresco and are welcoming foodies and lunch and dinner dates back to, eh, yep, roadside tables. But the growing, although arguably not growing fast enough for Ireland’s restaurateurs, of Government laxity around dining is not a sign that

the practice is necessarily safe — in the overall hospitality industry worth some €7.6 bn annually to the Irish economy.

August, we are being told by many of our experts, will be a wicked month with the Delta variant. The latest rogue microbe may make this moment more dangerous than the early stages of the coronavirus outbreak, for workers and diners alike.

Vaccination for all is the only way out. As I write only 52% of adults have had their two shots; included here is the one jab J&J. The restaurant we are lunching at is one of eight on a strip on the south end of town. All have reopened, bar one which has no capability for outdoor dining. Trying to get to our date with lunch is like navigating a way through the crowds thronging at the entrances to Croke Park on All Ireland day.

The world and his wife are

Music affects the mind – for the positive ANDREW MCDONALD HYPNOTHERAPIST

MUSIC affects the mind.

There’s nothing particularly groundbreaking about that revelation. What is worth exploring though is how different kinds of music interact with our brains.

Grouping hip-hop, reggae, techno, country and pop music into one album is a very eclectic idea. In terms of the effects each of these genres has on our minds though, categorising them together makes a lot of sense. All five feature catchy, consistent and repetitive backbeats. Music that structurally is relatively constant results in your body producing dopamine, the pleasure chemical. It also increases the pulse rate, making you more hyper and your desire to dance and sing gets triggered. In short, listening to them makes you feel good.

The idea that heavy metal leads to you feeling calmer sounds a little crazy to those

who don’t listen to it. There’s good reason though why it has this effect. Metal has a dense structure and is very often fast in tempo. This gets your blood pumping. However, this leads to an indirect calming of the body.

This genre fills the brain with lots of activity which leaves less space for feelings of stress and anger. The characteristics of heavy metal also give an outlet for these emotions providing an opportunity to offload.

The genre which perhaps frees your mind the most is jazz.

There is a lot of improvisation meaning you are at liberty to interpret the sounds in your own way. This leads to a massive amount of hyperactive neural stimulation. Jazz’s loose, off-the-cuff nature also involves musicians communicating to each other through their instruments. It’s not surprising then that jazz leads to activity in the part of the brain which is responsible for language syntax.

If what you truly desire is to unwind, classical music is the go-to for busting stress.

As with techno, reggae, hip-hop, country and pop music, classical also releases

dopamine in the brain.

However, it brings relaxation too. Additionally, classical music activates more areas of your brain than the other five because its range is far wider bringing together complex contrasts of higher and lower notes. It’s also a fantastic kind of music to meditate too. You can find plenty of pieces of classical music which are 15 minutes or longer free on YouTube which are perfect for meditations.

The internet gives us a great opportunity to enjoy music we’re familiar with as well as exploring that which we may never previously have had chance to listen to. Myself, I’m very into modern Italian music; Antonello Venditti, Laura Pausini, Luciano Ligabue and Zucchero being among my favourites. Fans of Paul Young will know the last artist I mentioned as they collaborated on the track Senza Una Donna (Without A Woman). I’m also passionate about classical music and Classic FM is a favourite station which I listen to online. Whatever kind of music you enjoy, make sure to find time to do so as the health benefits are numerous.

here and not an inch of footpath left to waste, the whole terrain topped with tables, choc-a-bloc. People are ‘socially herded together’ — that’s the new phenomenon.

Heaving masses of human flesh on a sweltering summer’s day, of all shapes and guises, exposed belly fat and bow legs and female derrieres that would be the want of any decent and desiring gentleman. “ What is the soup?’ I ask greyblue eyes as my daughter and I peruse the men.

“Soup of the day,” she quips and I don’t believe for one moment that she is smiling or smirking behind her mask. This girl is serious.

All, I’d day 40, of us in this particular restaurant, or more correctly hanging on for dear life to tables balancing on cracked pavements are on top of each other like Brown’s cows (ask your mother).

So close are we all that I — it’s the journalist in me — soon learn most of my fellow diners’ darkest secrets; who is having an affair with whom, whose best friend’s husband was caught wearing her underwear,

‘Nouvelle cuisine means: I can’t believe I paid 70 odd quid for that...

”

and who is planning on putting her ‘unbearable’ mother into a home for the bewildered.

My daughter’s company is always wonderful; she is, unquestionably, my closest confidante. The food is just okay.

I guess the pandemic period of enforced home cooking made me realise one can do just as well oneself. Food is food whereas nouvelle cuisine roughly translated means: I can’t believe I paid 70 odd quid for that.

I give our grey-blue eyed waitress a decent gratuity — I’m not sure why; something to do with the pandemic being tough on kids. She genuinely acknowledges it and as her mask slips she throws me the most generous smile.

As we leave the restaurant, once more circumventing the assault course, I say to my daughter: “Fancy a fish ‘n’ chip for the tea...”

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New dementia joint research service launched A NEW dementia research service, that will help people living with dementia and their families find and take part in dementia-related research projects across Ireland, has been launchd.

Entitled TeamUp For Dementia Research, the service has been created and will be managed by The Alzheimer Society of Ireland (ASI) in collaboration with the Demen-

tia Research Network Ireland (DRNI).

The project is part-funded by the Donate for Dementia fundraising and awareness week.

With less than 0.5% of people with dementia currently participating in research in Ireland, this service aims to increase participation and connect people with opportunities to take part in

research in a safe way that puts the people who use our services and the public first.

Studies in the area of dementia could include topics such as prevention, diagnosis, treatment, care, and cure.

Research is essential to help understand what causes dementia, develop effective treatments, improve care, create new interventions and even one day find a cure.

The Alzheimer Society of Ireland (ASI) is fully aware that people living with dementia and their families can benefit from participating in research; many people find it a rewarding experience and enjoy having their voice heard and contributing.

ASI Interim Policy and Research Manager Dr Laura O’Philbin said: “Research is essential to help under-

A summer to help all business stay local A NEW national campaign by the Local Enterprise Office, just launched, is asking consumers in County Kilkenny to look local when they are shopping for products, services and experiences this summer.

The ‘Look for Local’ campaign, supported by Enterprise Ireland and the local authorities, aims to raise awareness of the benefits of spending in your local area. This initiative is also supported by Kilkenny County Council’s #shopkilkenny initiative which is currently running a promotional campaign around the County in conjunction with KCLR96FM. Research that was carried out as part of the first ‘Look for Local’ campaign, which was run by Local Enterprise Office Kilkenny in November and December 2020, showed that Irish consumers were 83% more likely to look local for products and services in 2021.

This campaign aims to strengthen that sentiment and to educate consumers on the domino effect that local spending has throughout their community. Every €10 spent in County Kilkenny on Irish products and services generates more than €40 of benefit to Kilkenny in terms of em-

ployment (ISME Shop Local Report, 2020).

The Tánaiste Leo Varadkar, said: “It’s more important than ever to look for local and support small businesses in your community. Whether you’re thinking of buying a gift, new clothes, a service of some sort – whatever it is, your local business would be delighted with your custom. It’s wonderful to see so many small businesses reopen recently, after what has been an exceptionally difficult period and as our vaccine programme ramps up further, we hope to see many more open their doors.”

Fiona Deegan, Head of Enterprise, said: “Since the onset of Covid-19, the Local Enterprise Office has been working closely with small businesses across the county to help sustain them with financial supports, training, mentoring and consultancy in all areas of their business. Now it’s our turn as consumers to ‘Look for Local’ with the economy reopening.

“Every euro you spend with a local business is an investment in the local community and the quality of goods, services and experiences on our doorstep are second to none.”

stand what causes dementia, develop effective treatments, improve care, create new interventions and even one day find a cure.

“In Ireland there is currently no streamlined and inclusive way for people with dementia and their families to learn about and express their interest in taking part in dementia research.”

Dementia Research

Network Ireland Chair and Consultant Physician in Geriatric and Stroke Medicine, Prof Sean Kennelly said: “It’s important for clinicians and researchers to provide opportunities for people to take part in research and TeamUp For Dementia Research creates this link.” * For more see www. teamupfordementia.ie

The pearls of their work: some of the beautiful finished works from the first knitting challenge

Time to take 10 together, and sit and get knitting...

KILKENNY Arts Office is calling all knitters throughout the county to participate in a ‘challenge’ as part of its community art project, ‘Knitted Together 2’. It’s a challenge with a twist, ie. to take 10 minutes to relax and enjoy the mindful, calming effects of knitting.

The Take-10 challenge aims to encourage people to take

some time to look after themselves and their mental wellbeing. Participants are encouraged to take ten minutes each day to do nothing but ‘sit and knit’.

The experts agree, says Kilkenny Arts Office’s Mary Butler “There are many positive health benefits of knitting.

The rhythmic repetitive move-

ments induce a form of meditation and a feeling of being ‘in the moment’. Knitters find they can ‘zone out’ and enjoy the ebb and flow of the activity whilst enjoying a sense of peacefulness.

“This mindful exercise will not only benefit the knitters but also the local charity shops too, as the blankets will be sold

to help supplement their fundraising which has been affected by the pandemic,” she said.

Those who wish to participate in Knitted Together 2 can register online on www.kilkennyartsoffice.ie, call 056 7794938 or email Bernadette Roberts, at the Arts Office on bernadette.roberts@kilkennycoco. ie.

Further tobacco taxes ‘will aid black market’

CONTINUOUS excise increases on tobacco are driving Irish smokers towards a growing black market, fuelling significant growth in smuggling activity.

That is according to Retailers Against Smuggling (RAS) who have this week outlined why Budget 2022 should not in-

crease excise on tobacco products considering the unfair ‘competition’ legitimate retailers face from criminal gangs exploiting the demand for illegal tobacco products.

Commenting on the organisation’s Budget submission to Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe TD, national

spokesperson for RAS, Benny Gilsenan said: “An excise increase on tobacco products in Budget 2022 will only serve to further damage an already weakened retail sector and will provide increased opportunity for large-scale smuggling and ant smuggling of tobacco products.

“The policy informing Budget 2022 must account for the need to create a sustainable, flourishing, and legitimate retail sector as we emerge from the pandemic. As retailers, we continue to compete with a very active black market in tobacco products which accounts for 15% of all cigarette packs in

Ireland not to mention the 9% of cigarette packs smoked which are bought in from other jurisdictions.”

Mr Gilsenan added: “There is genuine concern amongst retailers that increased demand for the black market spurred by excise increases will lead to an accelerated return of ant smug-

gling as international travel resumes. Ant smuggling is typically carried out by smugglers travelling on low-cost airlines to purchase cigarettes in countries where it can cost as little as €2 for a pack of 20 cigarettes.”

RAS represent over 3,000 small and medium-sized retailers across the country.

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‘Pay up’ summer teen child benefit THE Sinn Féin TD for Carlow Kilkenny, Kathleen Funchion, has called on the Government to pay child cenefit in respect of 16-18 year olds over the summer months, following an outcry over the situation.

Ms Funchion said: “Last year due to school closures, child benefit continued to be paid in respect of 16-18 year olds during the school holidays given the difficul-

ties posed by Covid-19.

This was a vital lifeline for many families here in Carlow Kilkenny and across the state, as it provided muchneeded financial support.

“This year, parents were not informed that this would not happen again this summer and that instead, a form signed by the school was required in order for the benefit to continue to be paid.”

Schools were now closed

for the summer and parents were unable to get the necessary form signed, she said. This is an appalling situation, which would see the finances of thousands of ordinary families suffer.

“The Government must take direct and urgent steps to address this and ensure this crucial money is not withheld from families who need it.”

The Sinn Féin spokesper-

son on Social Protection, Claire Kerrane TD, has written to the Social Protection Minister asking her to ensure that Child Benefit is payable to all parents with children aged 16-18 until school resumes at the end of August/September. At this stage, the forms can be signed and returned to the Department of Social Protection.

Ms Funchion said child

benefit was a critical source of income for families, especially to support older children. It was also relied on heavily by many parents in order to meet back-toschool costs, a costly time for parents.

“Sinn Féin will stand up for families and hold the government to account on this.

Families who need this important support must continue to receive it,” she said.

Minister ‘dragging heels on appeals review’ IFA Deputy President Brian Rushe has said it is “high time” Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue implemented the recommendations of the Independent Review of the Department appeals system.

The independent review group was established in response to genuine concerns about the appeals system and this review was carried out and published in 2017.

The review recognised the need for change, making several significant recommendations, including the establishment of an Agricultural Appeals Review Panel with an independent Chair, and to include a farmer nominee.

“Farmers do not perceive the current appeals office to be sufficiently independent.

While we don’t agree with everything in the review, it was widely acknowledged as being a step forward,” he said.

“Brian Rushe said the Programme for Government committed to this review.

The Minister reiterated this commitment at the IFA AGM to establish the appeal panel. We’re told that legalisation is being worked on to make this happen.

“This review was published over three years ago and the Minister must ensure that the independent Agriculture Appeals Review Panel with farmer representation is established and the recommendations of the Committee are implemented without any further delay. Farmers can then have confidence in the appeals system, and that their cases will be dealt with fairly, impartially and efficiently,” he said.

AN exhibition by artists Ellen Duggan and Marie Langton takes places Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel foyer from Friday, August 6 until Sunday the 15th from 11am to 6pm daily, This year Ellen has concentrated on contemporary landscapes from her local surroundings. She has also included some flower studies done in her inimitable style using vivid colours and adding texture to her art. Ellen will also be showing some portraits which she is now doing on commission.

Marie’s work includes studies of people, moody landscapes and animal & bird studies in her usual contemporary style using oils to portray her message.

She says it would be wonderful to see as many people as possible come out and support local art.

Our two works pictured here are entitled Loving Mother and Mountain Sheep.

Ellen and Marie at the Ormonde Colleges secure further funding from Enterprise Ireland WATERFORD Institute of Technology (WIT) and Institute of Technology Carlow (IT Carlow) have jointly secured €3m from Enterprise Ireland to operate the New Frontiers entrepreneur development programme in the South East over the next five years.

The New Frontiers programme is for potential entrepreneurs who have an innovative business idea or an innovative technology that has the potential to be developed into a scalable, high-potential start-up company.

The Enterprise Ireland funding will allow the two institutes – which are working together to create a technological university for the South East – to work with over 400 early-stage entrepre-

neurs over the five-year funding period, with 95 of the high-potential entrepreneurs receiving a payment of €15,000 each to participate in New Frontiers.

The programme, to be delivered at the ArcLabs innovation hub in Waterford and the ERIC incubation hub in Carlow, is now taking applications from entrepreneurs and innovative business start-ups.

This intensive training and support programme also includes desk space, mentoring, business masterclasses and networking.

Commenting on behalf of Enterprise Ireland, Brian Fives Senior Regional Development Executive said “Enterprise Ireland is proud to offer such a critically important programme like New

*NB If the delay in 16-18 child allowance if affecting you financially, as many do depend very often on the money, what benefits and payments you can claim will depend on several things.

It can seem very complicated but your local Social Welfare Office or Community Welfare Office can help you understand what you can apply for and from whom.

Frontiers which will be delivered by IT Carlow and WIT. New Frontiers is Enterprise Ireland’s national entrepreneurial development programme and combining practical advice, mentorship, and funding, it can help reduce the risk and dramatically increase the chances of success, for aspiring start-up entrepreneurs. We are delighted to announce the approval of €3m in funding for IT Carlow and Waterford IT to deliver this programme over the next five years.”

New Frontiers Programme Manager at Waterford Institute of Technology, Eugene Crehan explains who the programme is for.

“The New Frontiers programme is designed to help ambitious

individuals bring their business idea from concept to successful start-up. Recent participants have gone on to attract significant funding after New Frontiers: Immersive VR Education raised €6.7m on the London and Dublin Stock Exchanges in 2018 and recently closed a €9m funding round, while OmniSpirant Ltd received €9.4M in the Disruptive Technologies Fund 2020.”

Gemma Purcell, the New Frontiers Programme Manager at Institute of Technology Carlow said: “We are delighted to continue supporting entrepreneurship and innovation across the south-east region through the New Frontiers programme. IT Carlow has been delivering such a programme

Gemma Purcell: delighted with further funding

since 2007 and has already been responsible for the creation of numerous successful enterprises in the region such as MicroGen Biotech and Seed Golf, both international success stories.

“Microgen Biotech raised $5.1 m in Series A funding and has been selected as a finalist of the 2021 EY Entrepreneur Of The Year competition. Seed Golf has customers in 34 countries and is currently raising €1 million through crowdfunding and direct investment.”

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News KILKENNY hurler Jackie Tyrrell has joined a host of wellknown GAA people who have given their backing to the RNLI’s summer water safety campaign by producing their own home video messages with important water safety advice. The videos are part of the partnership between the RNLI and the GAA to prevent drowning and save lives.

The James Stephens player is joined in the campaign by Antrim hurler Neil McManus, Cork footballer Brian Hurley, Galway camogie player Shauna Healy, Dublin footballer Lyndsey Davey and former Kerry footballer Killian Young, as well as GAA commentator Marty Morrissey.

Each video features a water safety message and includes the charity’s ‘Float to Live’ message, how to raise the alarm if you see someone in trouble, carrying a means of calling for help, leaving inflatables at home and always telling someone where you are going.

The RNLI and the GAA will be sharing the videos online and hope that people will in turn share them among their own friends and family. This summer is already looking to be one of the busiest for lifeboat crews and the charity is asking people to be aware of the potential dangers involved in their chosen water activities.

Commenting on the campaign RNLI Head of Water Safety Gareth Morrison said: “In working with well-known people from the GAA we have been

Saving lives: Jackie discussing joining the RNLI water safety summer campaign with the local committee

Kilkenny’s hurler Jackie backs summer water safety campaign

With a view to our Shifting past...

Hockey take the coveted Texaco KILKENNY Hockey Club, County winners in the recent Texaco Support for Sport initiative, has been presented with a cheque for €5,000 which will be used to purchase sports equipment for new starters, both adults and children, with any remaining balance to be used to increase participation.

One of almost 400 clubs countrywide to make application under the scheme, Kilkenny Hockey Club hosts mixed social hockey every summer and encourages everyone of any experience or age to come out and get active. Currently, the club fields three senior women’s teams and two senior men’s teams supported by an encouraging 337 underage members.

The presentation was made to the Club by Valero Energy (Ireland) Limited – the company that markets fuel in Ireland under the Texaco brand. Under its Texaco Support for Sport initiative, launched last September, a fund of €30,000 was set aside for allocation in equal amounts of €5,000 to successful

able to share life-saving advice with the people we know need to hear it the most. Through this partnership RNLI volunteers have been working with GAA communities locally to share water safety advice.

“Sharing this advice and information during a busy summer could save a life. We are grateful to our ambassadors who made these videos for us and while we haven’t been able to come together, we have still been able to work together to help save lives.”

Jackie’s home video message asks people to know how to raise the alarm if they see someone in trouble in the water. Calling 999 or 112 and asking for the Coast Guard if you suspect someone is in difficulty on the water could save a life.

Commenting on his involvement in the video Jackie said: “I am delighted to be involved with the RNLI on their GAA partnership. I’ve been involved with this partnership from the start and it’s being wonderful to see the charity reach out to clubs and communities with their water safety advice and messaging. Water safety isn’t just about our coastline and our beaches but also our rivers and lakes inland.

“Many of us plan to spend a bit of time near the water this summer but how many of us know the basic water safety advice we need for our activity. These small homemade videos that we made only take a second to share but they could be the second that saves life.”

THE group exhibition ‘Shiftings’ explores the untold stories of Ireland’s colonial past, bringing forgotten histories, contested legacies, and silenced memories to the fore.

Artists exhibiting are : Kian Benson Bailes, Ailbhe Ní Bhriain, whose work ‘The Passenger’ is pictured, Ursula Burke, Ruth Clinton, Maeve Coulter, Niamh Moriarty and Katharine West.

With artefacts laid buried; communities never remembered and stories gone untold, the

theme of the show is: can we trust that the past is truly knowable at all? Through the act of digging up the past and speculating what could have been, we may unearth knowledge that reveals a collective cultural memory seen anew through queer, feminist, and decolonial perspectives.

The show which runs until August 15 is at 75 John Street Lower, Johns Green House, Johns Green and Online at kilkennyartsoffice. ie and on Instagram @kilkennyartsoffice

Plan sought for 22 units at College Rd

applicants chosen on a countyby-county basis.

Overseeing the adjudication process was Texaco Support for Sport ambassador, former Irish rugby international and broad-

caster, Donncha O’Callaghan.

Entries to the Texaco Support for Sport 2021 initiative will open this Autumn. * Our photo shows Sarah Richardson, Niall O’Rourke

(Area Sales Manager, Valero – Retail), Liam Richardson and John de Loughry (Texaco Station Dealer) Photo:: Vicky Comerford / Mac Innes Photography)

A PLANNING application has been lodged for a site at the junction of the College Road/Callan Road and Circular Road in Kilkenny.

Hebron Ventures Limited has sought permission for a new development at the site, consisting of 22 residential units.

These would comprise nine three-bedroom owndoor maisonettes, nine onebedroom apartments and four two-bedroom own-door

duplex units, bicycle and bin storage; associated landscaped public and communal open space.

The application includes for an access road with pedestrian and vehicular entrance onto the Callan Road and all associated site services, boundary treatments and diversion of existing watermain pipework.

A decision is due from Kilkenny County Council at the end of August.

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News

Anyone can volunteer ACCORDING to Salena Grace, Manager of Kilkenny Volunteer Centre, “anybody can volunteer, and everyone has something to offer.

No matter what your background is or what experience you have, there is an organization in Kilkenny that can really benefit from your help.

Very often, enthusiasm and a willingness to chip in is the best skills that anybody can offer!”

Do you have some spare time over the summer months? Why not volunteer with a local non-profit organisation?!

Kilkenny Volunteer Centre is a service which can help you find the perfect volunteering position for you. The role of the Volunteer Centre is to provide a matching service between people who wish to volunteer and charitable organisations across the county who need volunteers to assist their work.

Kilkenny Volunteer Centre keeps a full and up-to-date database of vacant volunteering roles on their website www.volunteerkilkenny.ie so that potential volunteers can see what type of volunteering positions are available in their local areas and apply for roles which inter-

ests them.

Staff in the Volunteer Centre will also provide one-toone advice to people who are interested in volunteering and will help individuals find a suitable role with a local organisation based on their interests, skills, and experience.

Volunteering also offers many wonderful benefits to those that give their time to support local causes and organisations.

“Volunteering is a great way to do something positive with your spare time” says Salena. “People volunteer for so many reasons, to meet new people and make new friends, to develop new skills, to feel good and gain confidence, and to give something back in their communities. There is so much to be gained from volunteering, everyone should give it a go!!”

Volunteering can also prove to be greatly beneficial for individuals career prospects and is looked upon very favorably by potential employers.

Volunteering can help to hone teamwork skills, leadership skills, and communication skills, all of which are incredibly important skills in any workplace.

“People often ask but who or where would wany a volunteer like me” Salena told us “And I tell our callers, everyone and everywhere!”

Places like Kilkenny County Council need Welcome Team Volunteers to meet and great our tourists, Home Rule Club, and Kilkenny Bereavement Support in the city and our Towns around the county are always calling looking for volunteers. Mullinavat Community Centre in South Kilkenny and in the North, Urlingford, the Mill Family Resource Centre” While we spoke to Salena and Paula Harte , a new member to the staff of the Volunteer Centre, the phone was ringing continuously.

It is a new service to the city and the communities of Kilkenny City & County and for many it will be a great way to get reengaged into society after a year of lockdown in our own home.

For more information regarding the many volunteer opportunities available, contact Kilkenny Volunteer Centre on: Ph: 087-1165658 Email: info@volunteerkilkenny.ie Web: www.volunteerkilkenny.ie

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

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Members of the 1st Battalion, Kilkenny Brigade Re-Enactment group pictured at the Closh in Kilkenny on Sunday July 11 to commemorate the signing of the The Truce in 1921. Minister Malcolm Noonan planted a tree at the Closh to mark the occasion. It is envisaged that the area will become a Garden of Remembrance and Reflection, and is a joint programme between Keep Kilkenny Beautiful and Kilkenny County Council.

FULL REPORT IN OUR NEXT ISSUE. Photo shows: From left . Ger Cody, Declan Cooke, John Joe Cullen, Jim Dwyer , P.J. Norton, Phil Cody .

Photo by Pat Shortall

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

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Your Money growth at risk, some or all your capital can be at risk too.

Let’s assume you want a no risk saving plan.

ADVANTAGES 1. Easy to access and relatively straightforward when they are set up.

2. Savings are quite a secure way of putting money aside while ensuring that the funds are easy to access if and when they’re needed.

3. Your money is covered by the Deposit Guarantee Scheme, meaning should the institution regulated by the Central Bank fail, your deposits up to a maximum of €100,000 is guaranteed.

First rule of finance: look after yourself

BY JOHN ELLIS FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Last edition we looked at the cost of free education for our children. As we saw if your child lives away from home, you could expect to pay over €11,000 a year on average for bills and accommodation. (Source: DIT: Campus Life)

Advertorial

So, if you are in a position to put aside money toward your children’s or grandchildren’s education, before you commit there are some things to consider before you start saving.

Tempting as it may be to transfer some of your savings over to your grandchildren, it is important to look after yourself first.

• Know how much you can afford to save for others, after your own needs are met.

• Consider where best to save.

This decision will be influenced by the amount you

have to save and over what time.

• Finally, decide how to gift any money as red tape can surround these payments, particularly in the form of Gift Tax. Whatever avenue you follow, use it to maximise the Gift Tax allowance. This allows you to give tax-free money to the child making full use of the annual Gift Tax exemption limit of €3,000 from any individual (€6,000 from a married couple).

Having taken due consider-

ation, the next step is how and where to save.

One website I found helpful is Bonkers.ie, the comparision website. Here you will be able to see what’s available across a wide range of savings account with the various institutions.

The shocking thing is that there is little or no return on your money and this can be a problem especially when inflation is taken into account.

But again, care is required with an insurance-based product, what we call a Child Savings Plans, as not only is interest or

to the child, the child has beneficial entitlement and is in possession of those premiums.

3. By investing €3,000 each year (or €6,000 for a couple) the child will not incur a gift tax liability nor will the relevant threshold for CAT purposes be impacted upon.

Exit Tax will still apply.

4. The policy can still be encashed whilst the child is a minor by his/her parents/ guardians however the money received must be for the full benefit of the child.

DISADVANTAGES 1. Low to zero interest rates in current climate.

2. Inflation can play havoc with your capital.

3. Easy access can lead to the temptation to dip.

Let’s assume you are prepared to take some risk with your savings and are prepared to invest, say, for a period not less than 10 years. What then are the advantages and disadvantages of the Child Savings Plan?

DISADVANTAGES 1. Fund switching is not allowed on the Child Savings Plan, therefore careful consideration as to the initial fund(s) chosen must be made by the parent(s)/ grandparent(s).

2. Further to this, as the child is the owner of the policy through the assignment, it is not possible to have his/her parents switch the funds.

3. As the child will be a minor, it is not possible to receive instruction from a minor to make amendments to the policy.

ADVANTAGES 1. The policy is assigned to the child, meaning, the child is the full and beneficial owner of the assets within the Child Savings Plan.

2. All premiums/contributions made to the Child Savings Plan are deemed to be paid

There is no excuse not to better inform yourself on this or any financial issue under the sun.

Contact your Financial Advisor, attend seminars, webinars, read, search the internet. when it comes to financial information, you are not alone!

For more visit: ellisfinancial.ie

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

News

Laziness: or sometimes the best use of time is to waste it!

BEING laid up in the lockdowns, as it were, has perhaps made some of us somewhat lazy. We are being lazy if there’s something that we ought to do but are reluctant to do because of the effort involved.

We do it badly, or do something less strenuous or less boring, or just remain idle. In other words, according to Big Think website we are being lazy if our motivation to spare ourselves effort trumps our motivation to do the right or best or expected thing – assuming, of course, we know what that is.

In the Christian tradition, laziness, or sloth, is one of the seven deadly sins because it undermines society and God’s plan and invites the other sins. The Bible inveighs against slothfulness, for example, in Ecclesiastes: Today, laziness is so closely connected with poverty and failure that a poor person is often presumed lazy, no matter how hard he or she actually works.

But it could be that laziness is written into our genes. Our nomadic ancestors had to conserve energy to compete for scarce resources, flee predators and fight enemies. Expending effort on anything other than short-term advantage could jeopardize their very survival. In any case, in the absence of conveniences such as antibiotics, banks, roads or refrigeration, it made little sense to think long-term. Today, mere survival has fallen off the agenda, and it is long-term vision and commitment that lead to the best outcomes. Yet our instinct remains to conserve energy, making us averse to abstract projects with distant and uncertain payoffs.

Even so, few people would choose to be lazy. Many so-called ‘lazy’ people haven’t yet found what they want to do, or, for one reason or another, are not able to do it. To make matters worse, the job that pays their bills and fills their best hours might have become so abstract and specialized that they can no longer fully grasp its purpose or product, and, by extension, their part in improving other peoples’ lives. Unlike a doctor or builder, an assistant deputy financial controller in a large multinational corporation cannot be at all certain of the effect or endproduct of his or her labour – so why bother?

Other psychological factors that

can lead to “laziness” are fear and hopelessness. Some people fear success, or don’t have enough selfesteem to feel comfortable with success, and laziness is their way of sabotaging themselves. William Shakespeare conveyed this idea much more eloquently and succinctly in Antony and Cleopatra: “Fortune knows we scorn her most when most she offers blows.”

Other people fear not success but failure, and laziness is preferable to failure because it is at one remove.

“It’s not that I failed,” they can tell themselves, “it’s that I never tried.”

Some people are “lazy” because they understand their situation as being so hopeless that they cannot even begin to think it through, let alone do something about it. As these people are unable to address their circumstances, it could be argued that they are not truly lazy – which, at least to some extent, can be said of all ‘lazy’ people. The very concept of laziness presupposes the ability to choose not to be lazy, that is, presupposes the existence of free will.

In a few cases, “laziness” is the very opposite of what it appears.

We often confuse laziness with idleness, but idleness – which is to be doing nothing – need not amount to laziness. In particular, we might choose to remain idle because we value idleness and its products above whatever else we might be doing. Lord Melbourne, Queen Victoria’s favourite prime minister, extolled the virtues of “masterful inactivity.”

More recently, Jack Welch, as chairman and CEO of General Electric, spent an hour each day in what he called “looking out of the window time.” And the German chemist August Kekulé in 1865 claimed to have discovered the ring structure of the benzene molecule while daydreaming about a snake biting its own tail. Adepts of this kind of strategic idleness use their idle moments, among others, to observe life, gather inspiration, maintain perspective, sidestep nonsense and pettiness, reduce inefficiency and half-living, and conserve health and stamina for truly important tasks and problems.

Idleness can amount to laziness, but it can also be the most intelligent way of working. Time is a very strange thing, and not at all linear: Sometimes, the best way of using it is to waste it.

Here is one very considerate boss...

THE CEO of cloud-software company Okta has asked employees to email him about where they’re going on vacation amid growing concerns of tech worker burnout.

Todd McKinnon told staff in a recent all-hands meeting about his upcoming family vacation in Napa, and encouraged the company’s 3,500 employees to email him plans for their own

vacations in as much detail as they wanted, he told CNBC. He said that he shared his plans to remind staff about the importance of taking breaks and a good work-life balance.

“I got a lot of emails,” McKinnon told CNBC. He said that around 950 members of staff had sent him their vacation plans so far, and “they’re still trickling in.”

For 13.8b. years we’ve been tied up in knots THE world we inhabit appears to have three dimensions of space. But why not more?

A team of scientists think that shortly after the universe came into existence 13.8 billion years ago, it was filled with knots made from flux tubes — flexible strands of energy that bind together elementary particles.

Their insight comes from combining particles physics with mathematical knot theory, a unique approach the came as an inspiration to one of the team members.

The initial primordial soup, called the quarkgluon plasma, consisted of elementary particles called quarks, which make up protons and neutrons, and gluons, the particles that “glue” the quarks. Gluons connect quarks to corresponding antiquarks with flux tubes.

What the scientists theorise is that the primordial soup of the early universe would have had myriads of flux tubes being formed. While normally the flux tubes disappear

when quarks and antiquarks meet, they can continue to live if the tubes get intertwined and form a knot.

This is what happened in the high energy environment after the Big Bang, say the scientists. The whole universe was possibly filled

with a network of flux tubes that were knotted together.

This network would had the internal energy to drive cosmic inflation.

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Dine Me Come

With

Epic summer salad

Perfect for BBQs and buffets, this is an assembly job of gorgeous ingredients – no cooking required. Serve it with lamb kebabs for an impressive summer feast.

PREPARATION AND COOKING TIME Prep: 10 mins Easy Serves 6 INGREDIENTS • 400g black beans , drained • 2 large handfuls baby spinach leaves , roughly chopped • 500g heritage tomatoes , chopped into large chunks • ½ cucumber , halved lengthways, seeds scooped out and sliced on an angle • 1 mango , peeled and chopped into chunks • 1 large red onion , halved and finely sliced • 6-8 radishes , sliced • 2 avocados , peeled and sliced • 100g feta , crumbled • handful of herbs (reserved from the dressing) FOR THE DRESSING • large bunch mint • small bunch coriander • small bunch basil • 1 fat green chilli , deseeded and chopped

Prep: 20 mins Cook:10 mins Easy Serves 6 INGREDIENTS • 6 thin slices of brioche loaf , cut into cubes • 4 Little Gem lettuces , cut into quarters • 6 ripe peaches , stoned and cut into wedges • 2 balls burrata or buffalo mozzarella, torn into small chunks • ½ tsp lemon thyme leaves, to

Summer cocktails

Piña colada

A tropical blend of rich coconut cream, white rum and tangy pineapple – serve with an umbrella for kitsch appeal.

Ingredients • 120ml pineapple juice • 60ml white rum • 60ml coconut cream • wedge of pineapple, to garnish (optional) METHOD STEP 1 • Pulse all the ingredients along with a handful of ice in a blender until smooth.

Pour into a tall glass and garnish as you like.

For a frozen blended version Mix the juice, rum and coconut cream together and freeze in ice cube trays. Then whiz the frozen cubes (with a couple of ice cubes if you like) to a slushy consistency.

Tropical coconut rum punch

Keep your party guests content with this creamy, fruity drink with Malibu, coconut milk, pineapple and mango juice.

Ingredients • 500ml pineapple juice • 500ml mango juice • 250ml Malibu rum • 250ml coconut milk TO SERVE 4-6 • sliced pineapple • limes on skewers

• 1 small garlic clove • 100ml extra virgin olive oil or rapeseed oil • 2 limes , zested and juiced • 2 tbsp white wine vinegar • 2 tsp honey METHOD STEP 1 • Make the dressing by blending all of the

ingredients in a food processor (or very finely chop them), saving a few herb leaves for the salad. You can make the dressing up to 24 hrs before serving.

STEP 2 • Scatter the beans and spinach over a large platter. Arrange the tomatoes, cucumber, mango, onion and radishes on top and gently toss together with your hands. Top the salad with the avocados, feta and herbs, and serve the dressing on the side.

serve • handful basil leaves, to serve FOR THE DRESSING • 6 tbsp olive oil • 1 lemon , juiced • 1 tbsp capers in brine, drained and finely chopped

Hurricane cocktail

• Our tropical, rum-based hurricane cocktail is easy to make and sure to get your party started. Garnish with orange and cocktail cherries for a kitsch touch

METHOD STEP 1 • Fill a cocktail shaker with ice then add the rums. Scoop the flesh and seeds from the passion fruit and add to the shaker along with the orange and lemon juices, sugar syrup and grenadine.

METHOD STEP 1 • Make the dressing by whisking the oil, lemon juice and capers together in a small bowl, then set aside.

STEP 2 • Heat oven to 190C/170C fan/ gas 5. Scatter the brioche cubes over a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 mins until golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

METHOD STEP 1 • Put all the ingredients in a jug, mix well and chill. To serve, add ice to glasses, pour over the rum punch and decorate with pineapple & lime skewers.

INGREDIENTS • 50ml dark rum • 50ml white rum • 1 passion fruit • 1 orange , juiced • 1 lemon , juiced • 50ml sugar syrup • 2 tsp grenadine • To garnish • 4 cocktail cherries • 2 orange slices

Peach panzanella Pair this salad with barbecued chicken as part of a summer menu. Made with peaches, mozzarella and a lemon and caper dressing, it’s also great on its own.

News Food & Drink

STEP 2 • Shake well until the outside of the cocktail shaker feels icy cold. Fill two hurricane glasses with fresh ice then double strain the drink into the prepared glasses.

STEP 3 • Arrange the lettuce on a serving platter with the peaches and burrata and

season well. To serve, drizzle over the dressing, then scatter over the thyme, basil and croutons.

STEP 3 • Garnish each one with an orange slice skewered onto a cocktail stick and a couple of cocktail cherries.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

Advertisement Advertorial

Healing crystals or dark Lower back pain: Fix the gems, know the full story problem and you won’t have

BY ERICA DALTON-JOYCE

C

rystal healing and their use for wellness has never been as big as it is now. We are increasingly turning towards natural ways to heal, energise and are also increasingly aware of the power of vibration.

Modern physics tells us the human body has a particular vibration, so too do crystals. Our vibrational energy in unstable and changeable, crystal energy is stable, this is what draws us to them. We know that crystals all have various properties, that are useful for various conditions, however do we think about how the origins of that particular crystal will affect us. If not we should. In particular we should be asking where did it come from, who was involved and in what conditions. This is all hugely important to consider, as how can something heal if it comes from the dark side of the industry.

The Dark Gem refers to the thousands of tonnes of crystals that are taken from the ground everyday, through slave labour, child labour and inhumane conditions and aiding the funding of war and violence.

For instance, when we pick one

beautiful piece of Rose Quartz, do we ask about the 80,000 children in Madagascar mining it daily or do we buy it from a shop that ensures they source from ethical suppliers. On the other side of the coin in Madagascar, the largest crystal exporter there employs locals to cut and polish the stones before export so the profits stay in the country and jobs are created. It’s important

to know which mine our Rose Quartz purchase supports. In Myanmar, where rubies and many other crystals come from in abundance, the militia own and run the mines thus funding war and desolation.

In our shop we are regularly asked where our crystals are sourced from. The answer, from all over the world. Because we buy directly from miners co-op’s and exporters who have signed up to supplying a living wage and working conditions for their employees. If your Crystal comes from a place of growth, respect and dignity, in other words ethically sourced, it will go it will go a lot further towards your needs and healing than a Crystal that has been mined at great human expense. Shop carefully, shop ethically and it will greatly effect the crystals themselves and what they can do for you.

All Crystals in Angel on a Broomstick are ethically sourced and none contribute to human suffering, violence or war. It is something we will never compromise on and firmly believe it shows in the energy and quality of our crystals. The moral of the story….. if it is too cheap to be true, believe it, be consumer aware, even with wellness.

to worry about the pain EOIN EVERARD

IT’S gotten a bit confusing how we sometimes look at our health. When pain strikes the low back we usually think we just got a new problem or injury. But why then was coughing, shaving, or doing the laundry, so different this time? These are things we do every day.

Rarely is a new episode of low back pain brought on by a well-defined injury or trauma. Trauma in most cases is usually quite trivial.

We confuse pain as a signal for something that is physically changing each time.

So what is the problem?

The problem is joint sprain or subluxation. This is a ligament problem and occurs with small micro traumas over many years, or sometimes with acute events such as car accidents or falls.

Over time the ligaments stretch, causing the joints and vertebrae to displace, irritating the delicate nerve fibres. But over a few days or weeks, the pain that accompanies this injury gradually lessens, and in many cases goes away all on its own. But has the problem also gone away? Likely not, because when ligaments are traumatized, the repair mechanism involves scar tissue, which is less elastic than the original, and makes the joint vulnerable to re-injury and sometimes impairs the free and symmetrical motion of the spine. Physiotherapists examine for this type of joint sprain using palpation for tenderness and oedema, and a G.P can also help confirm this by x-rays to see the directions the vertebrae have moved towards. These specific analyses can tell us the vulnerable directions and how the vertebrae need to be repositioned to promote good alignment and good posture.

The adjustment is de-

signed to reduce this misalignment, and induce more symmetric motion.

When movements are asymmetrical in the spine, they can lead to premature degeneration of the spine and arthritis. This may be why a simple task such as lifting a laundry basket can flare up the back so easily.

You may be lifting with good form and posture but with an asymmetrical spine, the loading is very off balance.

Sometimes the disks are so damaged that a simple sneeze is enough to cause excruciating pain. So when these trivial events seem to trip you up, it means there is an underlying problem that is not getting corrected.

Email everardpilates@ gmail.com to get our free book Secrets to a Healthy Spine or for more information about back Pilates and availing of a free trial.

Visit everardpilates.com/ backfreetrial.

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News

Diseased ash and the ‘final nail in the coffin’ IFA Farm Forestry Chairman Vincent Nally said the requirement for farmers to get planning permission to replant diseased ash plantations with conifer species is the final nail in the coffin for the Reconstitution Underplanting Scheme (RUS).

“Farmers have had enough.

They have been abandoned by this Government and are being forced to deal with the finan-

cial fallout of ash dieback with a scheme that provides limited financial support,” he said.

“Minister Hackett must act on forest owners’ issues and review the scheme. It’s not working and the operational costs to carry out the work are increasing.

“The obligation to maintain diseased forests to a required standard is placing farmers, who are desperately trying to deal

with the consequence of the disease, in an untenable position,” he said.

Mr Nally urged farmers to exercise caution when applying for the scheme and make sure they were familiar with the terms and conditions and their obligations under the scheme.

“The RUS scheme obliges forest owners to continue to manage and invest in a dying crop; to

manage under a continuous forest system that may be contrary to the management objectives; and provides no compensation for the loss of earnings inflicted by the disease. That is if they even qualify for the scheme,” he said.

“Farmers have had enough and want to see a new scheme introduced that supports all forest owners with ash dieback to

support them to remove the diseased crop, to replant and provide a payment in recognition of the loss of timber earnings,” said Mr. Nally.

He said that the low planting rates are a direct reflection of farmers’ unwillingness to plant and commit their land in perpetuity when they see the treatment of farmers whose forests have been devastated by the

disease.

“This in combination with the excessive bureaucracy associated with planting and management of forests as witnessed with the forest licences crisis must be addressed if the Government is serious about increasing Ireland’s rate of planting.”

Farmers needed a scheme that better reflected the losses they had incurred.

Young suffer as 225,000 waiting for driving test AS up to 225,000 young people are waiting for theory and driving tests Sinn Féin’s Kathleen Funchion has sharply criticised Minister Eamon Ryan for “the chaos his lack of action has caused”.

Figures released to Sinn Féin Transport spokesperson Darren O’Rourke TD show 1,005 people are now waiting for a driving test in Kilkenny, and 1,246 in Carlow, while a further 2,999 people are on the theory test waiting list in Kilkenny and a staggering 4,307 in Carlow.

Ms Funchion said: “Last year we warned Minister Ryan his lack of preparation and planning for driving tests was going to cause chaos during 2021.

“Unfortunately, this has now transpired, with what must be a record of 225,000 people currently waiting on a driving test or theory test.

“In my own constituency of Carlow Kilkenny, 2,251 people are waiting for a driving test, while a further 7,306 are waiting for a theory test across Carlow and Kilkenny,” she said.

“This time last year, we called for additional testers to be hired to help address the growing backlog, but it took months for the Minister

to grant approval for the 80 extra testers the RSA themselves requested. They are still not in place.

“In November we asked the Minister to put the theory test online, but it took until June of this year to bring in a restricted pilot scheme.”

The Kilkenny Carlow TD said universities were able to immediately switch to online exams during the pandemic, but no action was taken by Minister Ryan on this front.

“It’s simply not good enough.

These issues were foreseeable, but a lack of action and initiative from the Minister has allowed waiting lists escalate to a point never seen before.”

She said the Minister seemed to have been asleep at the wheel for most of the past year.

“He showed no interest in what was clearly becoming an enormous problem. It’s predominantly young people affected by these delays, which is having a massive impact on their lives.

“The delays are impacting their employment opportunities and will become a major problem for many as they return to college in September.”

Young people deserved better.

Honouring our past war dead THE Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr Fidelis Doherty, recently hosted a National Commemoration Day Regional Ceremony in the grounds of County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, to honour all those Irishmen and Irishwomen who died in past wars or on service with the United Nations.

This is one of a number of regional ceremonies. As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, this year’s commemoration has been scaled back involving key

participants and a very small number of other guests including local and regional public representatives, members of the Defence Forces, An Garda Síochána and religious leaders.

The event was by invitation only in order to comply with public health guidelines and in particular social distancing measures. The ceremony on Sunday, July 11 was available for viewing on the council’s social media channels following the event.

‘Our World in a Window’ helping children with a better view of life THE national children’s arts and health charity, Helium Arts, has launched ‘Our World in a Window’, a window exhibition featuring the animations and mechanised artwork produced by 49 children in 18 counties in Ireland on the Helium Arts Remote Programme ‘Distance Creates’.

The exhibition is touring to Dublin, Kilkenny Cork, Galway, Limerick and Longford.

Since February 2021, chil-

dren aged nine to 12 living with long-term health conditions have been exploring the world of animation guided by Helium Artist Chelsea Canavan. From tinfoil and claymation characters to foam sculptures and hand-drawn illustrations, the children’s stories have come to life in unique and imaginative ways, showing persistence and creativity in the face of adversity.

The project origins date

back to the onset of the pandemic, when Helium Arts began adapting its programmes to digital and postal formats to allow many vulnerable young people to practice their creativity from the safety of their homes. The goal was to offer respite during these difficult times of social distancing, and support their mental health.

Between 2020 and 2021, Helium Arts’ remote pro-

gramme increased access to creative psycho-social supports for over 250 children living with long-term health conditions across Ireland, increasing their wellbeing by 44% and in particular doubled participation by families living in rural and regional areas. * The Kilkenny exhibition runs until August: 3 at MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre.

Chicken Run feeds hungry households MOY Park’s community outreach initiative ‘BBQ Chicken Run’ has paid a visit to deserving households across Kilkenny.

The company has been calling on the public to nominate someone close to them who is deserving of a food hamper, with recipients getting a surprise

visit from the ‘Chicken Run’ van.

Rachael Kealy nominated her aunt Suzy O’Neill from Blanchfieldsland to receive a Moy Park hamper.

Rachael said: “My aunt Suzy really deserves a treat at the minute, which is why I’m so delighted she was one of the win-

ners of the Moy Park hampers.”

“Hopefully I’ll get a nice big portion of the BBQ when it happens – thanks again Moy Park for visiting Suzy with such a lovely surprise.”

Other lucky Kilkenny winners included Gerard Champion who was nominated by his part-

ner Ann Kealy so they can enjoy a lovely summer BBQ in the garden.

Pamela O’Neill nominated David Ireland from Cloghabrody as the perfect winner, commenting that “when the BBQ is on it’s the only time he ever does the cooking!”

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

Picture special John and Margaret Somers

Barbara Hunter

Mickey Ramsbottom

Discussing hurling I’m sure

Stephen and Conor White

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Picture special

busking on Kieran St

About Out &

Conor Swan and Ciara Hargadon Blaise Butler Tom and Bobbie Lahart watching their grandson Harry hurling for O’Loughlin’s u6 team

WITH

Danny Lahart

Watching the hurling in the Village

Mary and Mingha Flannery

The Gallagher family from Derry

John Egan Harp player on Kieran St

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Opinion

Eileen’s farmhouse bread CLAIR WHITTY

LOVE bread? I know I do, so I want to share with you my favourite healthy home-made brown bread recipe, Eileen’ Farmhouse Bread. This recipe was given to me thirty years ago by my mother-in-law, Eileen RIP. I didn’t ask her for it mind you, I wasn’t a baker by any means. It was my husband who asked - life without his mothers’ bread must have been hard for him to bear. So, he asked her for the recipe, that and her tarts, and queen cakes. They all taste great, but at the time I wasn’t ready for baking.

In time, I took out the recipe and have never looked back. It’s easy to make, tastes great, and is lovely with a bit of jam, so my husband tells me, I just load it with real butter.

You need two flours, Doves Wholemeal Strong Bread Flour and Doves Plain White Plain, baking soda, buttermilk, and salt. It’s a simple recipe that my two young adults make now too.

It’s lovely to see Eileen’s recipe going to another generation.

Every time I make it, I need to use the weighing scales, just to be sure! My husband says he never once saw his mother use a weighing scales to make her bread. But she made several loaves per week. I don’t make

that many so all is forgiven.

Over the years I have used many different brands of flours but I have settled on Doves. In my opinion they are great flours to work with.

I hope you enjoy Eileen’s Farmhouse bread as much as we do.

Eileen’s Farmhouse Bread Set oven to 230 degrees in conventional oven Cooking time 40 - 45 minutes – tap the bottom to make sure it sounds hollow Ingredients • 1lb plain flour • ½lb wheaten meal (Doves Wholemeal Flour) • 1 teaspoon bread soda • 1 ¼ teaspoon salt • 1 pint approx. of butter milk Method • Add dry ingredients to bowl

and mix well.

• Add th≠e milk and mix with your hands.

• Put flour on the working surface and knead for a few minutes.

• Add a light drizzle of flour to your baking tray and shape the loaf into a circle, cut two deep lines in the bread, like a cross. Don’t cut right through the bread. Place in the hot oven and check towards the end of cooking time as oven temperatures vary. Tap on the bottom of the bread and if there’s a hollow sound, you’ll know your bread is cooked.

Cool on a wire rack when done and enjoy!

Call in to see us at Natural Health Store Market Cross, Kilkenny or give us a call on 056 7764538.

Shop online at www. naturalhealthstore.ie

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News Feature

A short history of Gowran Home to ancient kings, a place of steeds and a venue for military and royal gatherings This is an elaborate ruin and is known The Collegiate Church of St Mary or The church of the Assumption of The Blessed Virgin

The 18 hole championship golf course, which is part of the Gowran race course. Designed by Geoff Howes

BY COIS CÉIM, IN ASSOCIATION WITH KILKENNY SATURDAY WALKERS GROUP

THIS locality was selected for a residence by one of the ancient Kings of Ossory and was continued by his successors long before the Anglo stipends the King of Cashel a place now called BarrowNorman invasion. to the Kings of his territories mount about one mile from According to Canon Carthere was an allowance of ten Gorebridge. rigan the royal residence steeds, ten drinking horns, ten After the Anglo Norman was situated in the Moat, the swords, ten shields, two rings invasion when Ossory being Pigeon Park and was famous and two chess boards to the divided among the followers for its Aonachs when the Irish King of Gabhran. of Strongbow, Gowran

was Kings ruled. A settlement Sometime between 1162 given to Theobald FitzWalgrew up around this area and 1165 Dermot O Riain ter, Chief Butler of Ireland which was known as Baile granted land to the Cistercian and ancestor of the Ormond and later became known as Order for their Abbey at Kilfamily.

Bealach Gabhran or in English lenny.

Theobald died in 1206 and as Ballygawran and eventually Amongst those present as sometime before that he simply Gowran . witnesses were King Dermot granted a charter of incorpo Mac Murrough,

St. Lauration to the free Burgesses of PLACE OF THE STEEDS rence O Toole Archbishop of Ballygauran.

Some authorities say the word Dublin, Felix O Dullany Abbot In the year 1315 King Gabhran signifies the place of the Cistercians in Ossory, Edward Bruce with his army of steeds. It certainly was the later Bishop of Ossory, and took the town of Gowran. scene of many royal and milimany of the nobles of South During a battle fought tary gatheings.

Leinster. between Irish and the Anglo It is said that amongst the This Abbey was situated at Normans in 1415 Ballygauran was burned.

King James 1st in 1608 made The beautiful village of Gowran. This locality was chosen by one of Gowran a parliamentary the ancient Kings of Ossory. borough and gave the inhabitants a new grant of incorporation.

Two members were elected to Parliament in 1613, and Gowran returned two members to the Irish Parliament down to the Act of

Gowran native, Denis Joseph (D.J) Carey who played as a left wing forward for Kilkenny Senior hurling team , and is recognised as one of the all- time greats

castle under the command of Colonel Hammond, a Kentish man.

I sent him a civil invitation to deliver up the Castle unto me, which he returned to me a very resolute answer and full of height.

We planted our artillery, and before we had made a breach, the enemy beat a parley for a The first Gowran castle built in 1385 by James Butler, 3rd Earl of treaty, which I had offered so Ormonde close to the centre of the town of Gowran fairly to him, refused, but sent him in positive conditions Union in 1800. the East gate of the town was that the soldiers should have King James 11 in 1688 called the Magdalen Gate. their lives. granted to the inhabitants of A great plague broke out in The commissioned officers Gowran a charter incorporat1604 from which many of the to be disposed of as thought fit ing them into a body CorpoGowran people died. which in the end was submitrate and Politic consisting of ted to. one portreeve and eighteen GOWRAN CASTLE The next day the Colonel, Burgesses. Gowran Castle

was besieged the Major and commissioned In 1578, Thomas Dowyne by the Cromwellian forces in officers were shot to death, had a grant “of the custody, 1650 under Colonel Hewson all but one who being a very master ship and oversight of and was surrendered after earnest instrument to have the Magdalen of Leighlin and a brief defence by Colonel the Castle delivered was parBallygawran for relief of poor Hammond. On its surrendoned. der the commander and all leprous people dwelling in In the same Castle we took the officers with one excepthese places” a Popish priest, a chaplain tion were shot. The chaplain The Magdalen or leper hosto this regiment, who was pital of Ballygawran was situa Franciscan Friar named caused to be hanged.

Father Hillary was hanged in ated 300 yards east of the old I trouble you with this rather a butcher’s shambles at Main parish church just outside the because the regiment was town wall.

Street and the castle burned.

Lord Ormond’s own regiment.

About 1840 the ruins of the In this castle was a good church were taken down and IN THE WORDS OF store of rations for the army. trees planted on the site. The CROMWELL According

to tradition, the exact spot occupied by the The following is a copy of a old town of Gowran extended chapel is the angle formed by letter written by Cromwell from Gallows hill near Gowran the road to Bagenalstown and about Gowran, railway

station to Clover, BalGoresbridge.

“We met near Gowran, a lyshanmore and Castle view, From its proximity to the populous town where the so the ancient town that stood Magdalen chapel and hospital enemy had a very strong here was three miles in length.

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Community Group

‘This time next year we’ll be millionaires’ Step by step to starting your own business

BY CRISTINA MUSAT

AFTER getting good advice and suitable supports is key to success as an entrepreneur, as per conversation with Stefan Cadare owner of The house of pretzels from Kilkenny in my last column, Stefan expressed this article is for all communities not just the Romanian diaspora. There has never been a better time to start your own business. Thanks to Government initiatives, start-up communities and entrepreneur networks there is a smorgasbord of information available to surf your way through.

Places such as your Local Enterprise Office (LEO) have

developed courses and programmes to take you from the ideas board to having your product on the shelf, you no longer need to have a background in business to set up your own, you can just learn as you go. Stefan told us how easy and great support that he received from Irish organisations when he decided to start up his business, The Enterprise board had a huge impact on his decisions.

There are a few steps which we must keep in mind when we are starting to develop a business.

COMPANY REGISTRATION First you must decide if you are registering as a sole trader, partnership, or company. Registering as a sole trader means the business is completely in your hands, you are the decision-maker and is often the choice if you intend

trading as a small business.

If your innovation has much bigger potential, registering as a partnership or limited company is suggested.

The company is registered for tax via revenue.ie.

BUSINESS NAME Once the company has been registered, the business name needs to be registered with the CRO within a month of adopting the business name.

All forms and information are on cro.ie.

The VAT registration will probably happen around the time you register the company. This is where you would take tax advice as to when you would need to register. Generally, you would not register for VAT until you are starting to spend money or receive in money, normally you start to spend money first in a business. Once you start to spend,

if you’ve got expenses or have VAT you want to reclaim, then you need to start looking at it at that stage.” You can register for VAT yourself through Revenue’s Online Services (ros. ie) or you can enlist the help of a tax agent, someone who is registered to provide tax services to the public.

ACCOUNTANTS If you used a tax agent, then you are more than likely already availing of the professional services of an accountant but if you did that stage alone then your next port of call is to get one in your sights.

“In my opinion, and my experience, a start-up business generally goes to two people: they go to an accountant, and they go to a bank manager because to run a business you have to have a bank account,” says Marc Dwyer, chief executive of Big Red Cloud.

LEGAL ADVICE The legal advice is an important side – obviously, around patents and trademarks, you might need to talk to a specialist firm that looks after intellectual property.

OFFICE SPACE Owning or renting office space is not a necessity. If you are a start-up looking to move from the kitchen table or leave the solitude of a home office, this is possible to do at a relatively low cost.

You can register your business to your home address and avail of the many floating desks or hot desks that have been set up by business communities around the country.

STAFF Once you have registered your business and have been given a tax reference num-

ber you can register yourself as an employer through ros. ie. Depending on how many staff you are considering employing and how well you can deal with book-keeping, this would be the time to research payroll software, bookkeepers and employers’ liability insurance.

In-conclusion Stefan did remind us that his comments are his experiences and when anyone is opening or thinking of starting their own business it is vital that you do seek advice and guidance as it is your life and your family that will reap the awards and the benefits but, also the stress and the strain of the life of the entrepreneur.

The article is supported by the Romanian Twilight Community Group.

Contact: kclw.ro@twilight.ie

Community Group

Vodafone become the first Age Friendly Telecommunications Store in Ireland AGE FRIENDLY Ireland is delighted to announce that Vodafone have the first telecommunications stores in Ireland to achieve Age Friendly Business status. Twenty-one Vodafone stores throughout the country have completed Age Friendly training, have appointed an Age Friendly Champion, and have implemented three simple changes in store to make the environment, and the customer experience, more appropriate for older customers.

Age Friendly Ireland is currently rolling out training for businesses all over Ireland to help them respond to our rapidly ageing demographic in a positive and supportive way. These businesses recognise that, despite the challenges of Covid19, it is important to focus on encouraging and supporting older customers to continue using the products and services they need and enjoy in a safe way.

ABOUT AGE FRIENDLY IRELAND Ireland’s National Age Friendly Programme is a statutory cross departmental programme, supported by the Department of Housing Planning and Local Government, the Department of Health, the HSE and all Local Authorities.

Age Friendly Ireland is an ap-

pointed shared service of local government, hosted by Meath County Council on behalf of the wider local government sector.

The national Age Friendly Programme office brings together, supports and provides technical guidance to the 31 local authorities led, multi-agency, Age Friendly City and County Programmes across Ireland.

The overarching goal of Ire-

land’s Age Friendly Programme is that every local authority area in Ireland will be a great place in which to grow old. Underpinning the Age Friendly Cities and Counties Programme is the core principle that older people are a most valuable resource to their communities and to our society in general. For this reason, the voice of the older person is at the very heart of the Programme.

Age Friendly Ireland is helping to create an inclusive, equitable society in which older people can live full, active, valued and healthy lives. The Age Friendly Business Recognition Programme is run nationally with the support of and in partnership with Chambers Ireland and Local Authorities “Older consumers are very important to a business as

they are usually loyal, regular customers who provide repeat business, once they are valued and appreciated”, says Catherine McGuigan, Chief Officer, Age Friendly Ireland. “Our Business Recognition training programme has shown businesses how to engage with their older customers in a respectful and appropriate way, while giving teams a real appreciation of the valuable contribution older people make to our towns and communities. We are delighted that Vodafone engaged so enthusiastically with the programme from the start and implemented changes in a noticeably short time”.

The Vodafone stores have received their Age Friendly Charters which will be on display in store, and will be among the first stores to be listed on the Age Friendly Business directory at agefriendlyireland.ie Liam O’Brien, Director of Strategy and External Affairs at Vodafone Ireland said: ‘’At Vodafone, we believe that technology and connectivity is vital, and our aim is to ensure that we keep people connected, particularly those who may be more vulnerable. Working closely with Age Friendly Ireland we have gained a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by older people in our com-

munities. Vodafone Ireland has invested in its in- store experience to ensure inclusion for all customers, for example providing additional seating in store, a smartphone helpline for older customers, creating simple guides and tips to make navigating handset devices easier and offering free dedicated tech appointments to older customers on Fridays.

Age Friendly Business Recognition is testament to the investment we have made in our retail estate and the learning and development of our frontline retail agents. I’m delighted Vodafone Ireland is the first telecommunications company in Ireland to receive this recognition by actively contributing to a more inclusive society.’’

Other business leaders in the banking, finance, insurance, food, hotel and restaurant have completed their Age Friendly Business Recognition training and joined Vodafone earlier this month at a National Launch of the Age Friendly Business Recognition Scheme where they received their Business Charters.

For further information contact: Age Friendly Ireland’s Communication Office T. (046) 9097418 M. 083 4422111 www.agefriendlyireland.ie

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MacDonagh Junction

Summer

Style Summer is here and we finally have the freedom to get outside and enjoy the sunshine!(oh how we’ve missed you!) Whether you’re looking for swimwear for a beach day, comfy shoes for a walk around the castle, or the perfect outfit to enjoy a meal out, MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre has this season’s hottest styles for all occasions.

Carraig Donn €20.00 u

z Pamela Scott €59.99 Photo Credit @styleboothique on Instagram

If you’re soaking up the sun and building sandcastles at the beach, then stylish swimwear is a must have! Regatta offers a wide variety for the whole family, with loads of colours and styles to choose from.

Looking to get a little bit more active this summer? Or simply planning to explore a new city by foot? Either way comfort is a must! Treat your feet and invest in the perfect pair of shoes from Skechers, not only will your feet be comfortable, but you’ll also look super stylish.

Heading out to dinner? Let us help you find the perfect date night outfit! The perfect dress awaits you at TK Maxx paired with some of their fabulous accessories for an elegant ensemble. To finish off the look add a little sparkle with this gorgeous highlighting palette from Sleek Makeup and lip and cheek tint from Aimee Connolly - both available at Boots. Don’t worry, your man will also be looking dapper with a great selection of shirts, jeans and jackets available at Jack & Jones.

If you’re looking for a bit more comfort this summer, then sit back and relax in these comfortable sweatpants and hoodies from Life Style Sports. These hoodies give us sitting around the camp fire vibes!

Last but certainly not least, it’s important to take care of our skin.

Want to improve your skins tone, texture, hydration and elasticity?

A Profhilo treatment from Eden Medical is the perfect way to treat yourself and leave your skin feeling firmer and looking radiant.

For more Summer inspiration make sure to follow MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre on Facebook and Instagram for daily updates! *All prices correct at time of print.

River Island €48.00 u

Boots €21 u

z TK Maxx €34.99 t Skechers €60.00

p Life Style Sports €38.00

q Boots €13.49 t Skechers €78.00

t Regatta €21.00

Regatta €21.00 u

u Jack & Jones €39.99 Shirt, €79.99 Jeans, €24.99 Belt

t Skechers €65.00

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New poems I

N 2019, ‘The Kilkenny Involvement Centre’ published a book of poems with the wonderful title ‘Poems from a Kilkenny Laneway’.

The ninety page publication features forty poems with contributions from members at the centre as well as work from Kilkenny’s wider writing community.

In conjunction with The Involvement Centre, The Kilkenny Observer newspaper will reproduce these poems over the coming weeks.

The Kilkenny Observer is delighted to promote this project and we hope you enjoy the poems.

Week four sees poems from Kevin Dowling, David Cooke and Sandrine Dunlop.

The Day I Met You In retrospect it was an indifferent summer mostly it rained, the sun peered fitfully through clouds.

Nothing remarkable one way or another.

It was only later when you smiled and the world held its breath I noticed anything peculiar, a certain soft-focus blurring of reality, tunnel vision where all else disappears and nothing matters.

And later when you went that now familiar emptiness, all colour drained away and all the music lost.

The silence left over when birds no longer sing.

As if we never were.

15 Years is a Long Time to Wait 15 years is a long time to wait. 15 years is 15 years too late I knew a girl, let’s call her pillar box red She fu**d with my heart, she fu**ed with my head She came in like a breeze, but left like a bomb Left my head blown to pieces and then she was gone She wrote all day yes she wrote all night To erase the pain in her heart But she could never win the fight It’s hard to beat your demons When they’re a hundred feet tall It’s hard to beat demons When all they do is call Back to the point, was the whole thing a lie?

Her departure was just like someone had died 15 years is a long time to wait 15 years is 15 years too late.

David Cooke

Kevin Dowling

New Beginnings “I see them in the red sky at dusk, In the flowers blossoming, In the current of the river, In the fresh air of the longer evenings, In the full moon, shining, Growing, Piercing through the clouds.

I feel them in my words, In my eyes, In my footsteps, In my soul, In the bird dawn chorus outside my window, In the lightness of my thoughts.

I welcome them in the rhythm Of my heartbeat, Of my breaths, Of my hands, Of my new beginnings.”

Sandrine Dunlop

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Community Group

‘The Craic was Dobry!’

What an event the Polska Eire 2021 Kilkenny turned out to be! For the first time in its history the festival went virtual and beamed around the world on the The Twilight European Network Studio TEN

High Kings

Danu

THE Three day event kicked off with the world famous HIGH KINGS and our Partners National Youth Council of Ireland had two tremendous educational Programmes on Diversity and Climate Change.

Our great Friends and one of Ireland’s’ finest Polish Community groups , PL Gorey , Wexford brought the viewers down Memory lane with fantastic footage of Festivals from 2017 to 2019 In 2016 the national launch of the festival took place in Kilkenny and an hour long documentary brought the first days proceedings to a close Day 2 was a morning of children, teenagers and young adult programming. We had a wonderful programme of the Polish School Polska Szkoła im. św.

Jana Pawła II w Kilkenny with children of all ages talking to the viewers of the Polska eire festival. Students who have graduated or finishing their time with the school that continues to promote polish language and Heritage in our region told us the benefits of the school.

Our Supporters of the festival since 2015 the Football Association of Ireland provided excellent coaching for all ages

Balbiny crew 2018

with their HOME SKILLS programme present by ex Internationals including Irish coaches Andy Reid and Keith Andrews Day 2 concluded with One of Ireland’s leading, if not thee leading, traditional Group DANU with their Live concert for St Patrick’s Day celebration 2021 Then it was on to Day 3. And what a two part programme it turned out to be Dominika Stroppa held her third instalment of creative well-being Then we had our Lunch time Rock Opera concert by our very good and close friends the Balbiny from Malbork Poland the twin city of Kilkenny since 2017. This Twinning is unique as it is built

around the communities of both cities. The twinning of these two great cities is based on the Twilight Community Group’s Twinning Protocols written by the group’s current Chairperson Mr. Martin Brennan who established the Charity in 2014.

Balbiny 2018 Kilkenny trip

Every Festival must end with a bang! and what an enormous wall of sound the world renowned PICTURE THIS provided with their live performance from the 3 Arena Dublin Ireland. Picture This are the only Irish group to sell out this

Studio TEN

massive venue 5 nights in a row.

As they continue to have sell out concerts across Europe, Scandinavia and the States who to say it wont be 7 nights when they return Christmas 2021.

And so the curtain came down on another successful year of the Polska Eire Festival Kilkenny.

As one event comes to an end another begins. The International Communities Festival is the next quest for the Twilight European Network (TEN) Studio TEN. The Twilight community with their new Media Centre in their International Cultural House , Hebron Business Centre Kilkenny. Studio TEN will begin broadcasting Community based programming weekly over the upcoming Summer Months If you are interested in getting involved with this incredible new venture contact the group at their Head office 15A International Cultural House, Hebron Business Centre Kilkenny R95DD22 .

And finally remember the full programme of the Polska Eire festival will remain available for you to Enjoy, experience and share to all your friends and yes ‘The Craic was Dobry’.

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BEA

South East to get a World class training centre in Bicycle Engineering

The Bicycle Engineering Academy is a world leader in Bicycle specific engineering training program development and has been supported

by Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board with significant investment to bring a centre of excellence to the South East.

THE pioneering training program will be available from early October to anyone who has a serious interest and career vision within the bicycle industry.

The course was developed to fill a void in the global bicycle market, opening opportunities and routes to employment to any learner that graduates from the academy.

With four major international qualifications in Engineering including CAD (Computer aided design) and a mechanical engineering diploma delivered in an applied learning environment, the program has proved that an interesting subject matter with career prospects is what engages a learner. The entry criteria to the program is Junior certificate making the training

available to most people.

The pioneering program is already proving to be an enormous success in Limerick with the academy now into its second year and attracting international attention from as far as Dubai from potential

employers looking at the academy’s learners.

“We were delighted when we received interest from Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board regarding an academy in Kilkenny, we believe the southeast has played a significant part in the development of the bicycle industry in Ireland and we have no doubt that many potential bicycle industry professionals will welcome the addition of a bicycle engineering academy in the area. The future growth of the bicycle industry in Ireland is exciting, we have seen a threefold increase in the use of bicycles in the past two years and a greater appreciation of the bicycle as a serious mode of transport at government level.” says Marty Mannering who has thirty years’

experience in the bicycle industry and has developed the program.

The program is specifically aimed at those who see a future within the bicycle industry, it will give the learner a full comprehensive grounding in mechanics, design, industry standards, sales manufacture and open many pathways to employment, self-employment and recognised third level education progression.

The training program is split into two twenty-week sections which will run back-toback. It starts with the basics in bike mechanics leading through to the design and engineering stage of the bicycle, it will then develop into the manufacture of the bespoke bike which the learner will get to keep.

“Cycling is the fastest growing industry in Europe at the moment and anyone who has an interest in it should register quickly and fight for one of the twenty initial places available in October, Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board fully fund the program for any learner and the opportunities when qualified are endless.” says Paul Ryan who manages the very successful Limerick academy.

The training centre will be located close to FerryBank, Kilkenny serving a wide area and will open on the 4th October 2021.

More details can be found on www.BEA.ie regarding the registration process.

Further information is available from BEA Marty Mannering (Course developer) 061 388786 086 3967448 or email TSU.Recruit@kcetb.ie

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

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Community & GAA Notes

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news CLARA GAA CAMOGIE Clara seniors travelled to Thomastown on Sunday to take on the county champions.

For a variety of reasons the girls had just 15 players available to them and it was always a big ask taking on a seasoned Thomastown team, albeit a team lacking several regulars also. Thomastown got off to a flyer and had 1-3 on the board before Clara registered a score via a Keara Ryan free. An Aisling Nolan point from play just before the water break gave Clara supporters some hope, although they trailed 1-4 to 0-2 at that stage. The lead doubled during the second quarter, after which Thomastown led 1-11 to 0-4.

To Clara’s credit they never gave up the ghost in the second half and battled gamely throughout but some girls looked very flat after a hectic recent schedule. They lost the second half by a single point but Thomastown’s tally of 2-10 from play as against 0-4 from Clara was an accurate reflection of the gulf in class here. The final score was 2-16 to 0-11 and Clara will hope that player numbers will increase in the coming weeks. Team - Jane Flynn, Dianaimh Phelan, Lucy Cody, Anna Walpole. Tamsin English, Laoise Nolan, Katie Ryan. Aisling Nolan 0-2, Claire Nolan. Siobhán Treacy, Gráinne Glynn, Keara Ryan 0-9, 0-6f, 0-1x45.

Aoife Treacy, Niamh Ward, Emma Shortall.

COUNTY Well done to Emma Corr who was on the Kilkenny U16 Camogie team that had a 4-17 to 4-11 win over Tipperary in the All Ireland semi final on Sunday.

HURLING Clara seniors received a walkover from O Loughlin Gaels in Sunday’s scheduled Canices Credit Union Senior hurling league, which was fixed for Clara.

MINOR AGONY If ever a team deserved something out of a game the Clara minor hurlers did on Monday of last week when they played host to Dunnamaggin. But sometimes sport is cruel and two late Dunnamaggin goals earned them the two points in this one.

It was a rip roaring contest from start to finish, and the Clara lads, who started with five U14s in their ranks and nobody up to the age, really emptied the tank in their quest for the win.

Dunnamaggin started brightly with two points but a Ben Murphy point from distance settled Clara and a minute later a brilliant team move was expertly finished to the net by Rory Glynn. This helped Clara to a 1-3 apiece share of the first quarter lead.

Two points from play by Sean Carrigan and two pointed Conor Hoyne frees at the start of the second quarter gave Clara the belief they needed and they got to the halftime break with a 1-9 to 1-5 lead.

That lead was still three points at the second water break and when Sean Carrigan and Harry Boyle opened the fourth quarter with two points from play Clara appeared to be firmly in the driving seat. In the next few minutes however they dropped three balls in a row short into the goalie’s hand. They were camped in the Dunnamaggin half but were just too exhausted to apply the finishing touches. Dunnamaggin sensed this and broke down the field to snatch a goal against the run of play. A minute later a botched free from near the sideline by Dunamaggin ended with another goal and suddenly they found themselves a point to the good. Back came Clara and a hard earned free was coolly sent over from distance by Conor Hoyne. Unfortunately there was time for one more puck out and it was Dunnamaggin that won it. The ball was transferred to Cathal Buckley who scored a superb point to leave the final score 3-11 to 1-16 in favour of the visitors.

Dunamaggin’s greater experience told in the late stages. However the tenacity and work rate of the Clara boys had counteracted the physical superiority of Dunnamaggin and if they can reproduce displays like this they will get their share of wins. Next up is Tullaroan.

Team - Cian Kelly, James Cody, Ben Crow, Philip Carrigan. Tommy Delaney, Zach Lawlor, Ben Murphy 0-1. Harry Boyle 0-2,

Luke Lawlor. Ned Langton, Sean Carrigan 0-4, John Bergin. Rory Glynn 1-1, David Barcoe, Conor Hoyne 0-8, 0-7f.

TOUGH NIGHT FOR U15s Clara hosted St. Patrick’s, Ballyraggett last Wednesday and it was soon evident that it was going to be a long night. Ballyraggett scored the first five points of the game, four of them from play, and although Clara rallied with an unanswered 1-2, Ballyraggett came again with 4 more from play and led 0-9 to 1-2 at the sos uisce. That lead was stretched to 0-15 to 1-4 by halftime and Clara endured a tough second half as Ballyraggett kept the foot on the pedal to win 3-26 to 1-7. It didn’t help that a third of this team had started the epic minor match just two nights previously but this is a Ballyraggett team that are favourites in many peoples eyes to win this Roinn B crown. On this evidence they will take beating.

Team - Conor Galvin, Daniel Ryan, James Cody, Alex Firbank. Dylan Cummins, David Barcoe, Philip Carrigan. Tommy Delaney, Hugh Kelly. Conor Hoyne 0-6, 0-5f, 0-1x65, Luke Lawlor 0-1, Eoin Corr. John Bergin, Liam Carrigan 1-0, Sean Byrne. Subs used Bill Kealy, Daniel Murphy, Orí Phelan 1-0, Tom Murphy, Tom Boyle.

U13s LOSE NARROWLY Clara and Tullaroan met on Friday evening in Clara and both brought unbeaten records into the game. Neither were prepared to give up these easily and after a cracking contest it was the boys in the sash that prevailed 3-13 to 3-11. Clara tried all they could and had some great performances from Lukas Healy, Padraic Meany, Sam Corr, Dara Leamy, Aidan O Connell and David Lannen among others.

Team -Mícheál Meaney, Ruairí Bowden Mullen, Lukas Healy, Darragh Kenny, Peter Firbank, Orí Phelan, Sam Lawlor, Padraic Meaney , Jack Murphy, David Lannen, Niall McCarthy, Dara Leamy, Jim Carrigan, Aidan O’Connell, Adam Lakes.

Subs: Sam Corr, Ollie Butler, Ciaran Gibbons, Liam Treacy.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS AN LATÓ www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto Ní raibh aon bhuaiteoir sa lató anocht.

Pota óir na seachtaine seo ná €17,000 Uimhreacha Tarraingthe: 9, 10, 12, 27 Bónas 21 Tarrac an phoiblitheora (Meitheamh 1) 1. Breda Carter c/o Eileen Kinchella 2. Kay Kelly 3. Maurice Nolan c/o Mick Nolan 4. Teresa Butler c/o Mick Nolan 5. Chris Brennan c/o Moxie Doran 6. Anne Power c/o Mick Nolan 7. Philly Holohan c/o Gerry Buckley 8. Tom Dillon c/o Online 9. Willie O’Neill c/o Online 10. Laura Butler c/o Online Sponrs: www.perfectoprint.ie PLAY NOW at www.oloughlingaels.com/ lotto Thank you for your continued support of O’Loughlin Gaels Club Lotto. All monies raised continue to support the maintenance and upgrade of facilities to benefit all our players for many years to come. Your support is greatly appreciated.. Should you know any body else who you feel we may have lost touch with or may be interested in supporting the club, please forward them an e-mail asking them to play.

BILLY SULLIVAN TOURNAMENT Billy Sullivan Memorial Tournament 2021 What a great afternoons hurling at St. John’s Park on Saturday last thanks to the u11 boys from O’Loughlin Gaels, Danesfort GAA News Tullaroan GAA Graigue Ballycallan GAA Club St. Martins GAA, Dicksboro GAA Club . The event , sponsored by McCarthy’s Eurospar Ireland, celebrated one of our club greats Billy Busty O’Sullivan the only way the great man would want..by the cut and thrust of young lads hurling. Danesfort came way Tournament winners after a great tussle with runners up St. Martins while Graigue Ballycallan took the shield after a titanic battle with O’Loughlin Gaels white. O’Loughlin Gaels Green took the 3rd place title and all teams feasted on

some healthy refreshment provided by our sponsors Miram and James McCarthy of McCarthy’s Eurospar Newpark Shopping Centre.

LOUGHS DOCK AND NON-SMOKING BAR The Coffee Dock and Bar is reopened for outdoor service. Table service outside for all your refreshments. Please visit and support, the place looks amazing thanks to huge work by a lot of people led by Social Chairwoman Ruth Comerford. Well done Ruth and all the team - another great O’Loughlin Gaels Team. Lovely hurling.

DICKSBORO UNDER AGE HURLING Great to see Palmerstown and James Park buzzing this evening with our youngest hurlers back in the Boro! Well done everyone involved. Parents are advised to download Clubzap to follow the Covid Protocols. Please see relevant clubzap groups for training schedules.

CONDOLENCES Dicksboro GAA & Camogie Club would like to send condolences to the Holohan family on the death of Tom Holohan.

Tom died peacefully in the presence of his loving family and in the tender care of all The Staff at Sonas Nursing Home, Tullow.

Beloved husband of May, much-loved father of Francis, Seamus, Edward and Thomas, adored grandfather of Aisling, Ciara, Sinead, Eilish, Emma, Dylan, Emily and Laura, fatherin-law of Jacqui, Lynda and Ann, brother of Liam, Paddy and Sarah. Deeply regretted by his loving family, nephews, nieces, relatives, and friends.

May Tom Rest In Peace Tom’s Funeral Mass (confined to family) will take place on Tuesday morning at 11 am in The Church Of The Most Holy Rosary, Tullow followed by burial in St. Patrick’s Cemetery. Donations in lieu of flowers to The Alzheimer’s Society. Messages of condolence can be left on the link below.

Tom will depart from Byrne’s Funeral Home at 10.45 am on Tuesday on his final journey to the church and you are invited to line the route whilst adhering https://rip.ie/death-notice/thomas-tomholohan-tullow-carlow/463612/ SENIOR HURLING Best of luck to Cillian Buckely who is part of the Kilkenny team who will play Dublin in Croke Park on Saturday in the Leinster Hurling Final.

JUNIOR B HURLING The Junior B hurlers were unlucky to loose V Conahy Shamrocks on Saturday in Jekinstown This was the lads forth game and conahy ran out winner 2-10 to 0-15 Junior F Hurling DICKSBORO JUNIOR F The Junior F hurlers were very unlucky on Sunday night vs Glenmore in Palmerstown .This was the lads third game and were unlucky to lose 0-14 to 1-07.

JUNIOR E HURLING The 4th adult team game had a very good win V Erins Own on Tuesday in Comer. This was the lads forth game and ran out narrow winners in the end. They will now play a league v Lisdowney next week.

MINOR HURLING A Superb contest between in the minor roinn c league honours saw our Minor Hurlers loose to Conahy Shamrocks 2-18 to 5-08 in Palmerstown on Sunday afternoon.

Hard luck to Manager Richie Mulrooney and the Kilkenny Minor Panel Charlie Nolan, Brian Minogue, Timmy Clifford (Capt), Harry Shine , Niall Rowe and Nick Doheny who lost the 2020 all ireland minor final against Galway on Saturday in Portlaoise. The club are very proud of ye all. U15 Hurling Dicksboro U15 Teams have been divided up in Dicksboro Maroon and White for the Roinn A League campaign. The white team played naas a terrific roinn A league game on Friday in Palmerstown. The match ended in a draw.

U13 HURLING The U13 Hurlers were beaten in James park

on friday against Ballyhale Shamrocks. With both sides well matched and some quality hurling on show, our lads were unlucky to beaten in the end..The B team had a good win versus James Stephens. The C team were unlucky to loose to Bennetsbridge CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results July 7th2021 Nos: 23– 12– 32– 32 Jackpot: €3,500– not won Draw Prizes – €50: benny c/o ned buggy €25 each david ratigan c/o online €25 each edward moylan c/o online €25 each david kerwick c/o ann kwrwick €25 each deridre o reilly c/o herself Promoters prize - paddy maher Next week’s (July 15th) Jackpot – €3,600 We are encouraging every Dicksboro family to support the Clubs Fundraising efforts by signing up to the Club Lotto. https:// dicksborogaa.com/categories/lotto/ products MEMBERSHIP REGISTRATION Registration is now due and should be in place prior to resumption of play. This needs to be paid before entering the pitch. https://www.dicksborogaa.com/ membership_products SUMMER CAMP DICKSBORO SUMMER CAMPBOOKING SYSTEM Reminder: Closing date for registering for week 1 of our Summer Camp is June 30th.A small number of places are still available. To register please use the following link BOOKING SYSTEM Please see link below https://www.dicksborogaa.com/ summer-camp DICKSBORO GAA ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC Dicksboro GAA will host its Annual Golf Classic in the Kilkenny Golf Club on Friday 23st of July 2021.This event has been a very successful event in the past and we are encouraging all members, supporters, former players, and friends of the club to support this fundraising event. Please see below link on how to register https:// dicksborogaa.clubzap.com/product PITCH SIDE BUSINESS ADVERTS Should your business want to arrange an advertising hoarding at our Club grounds click here for details: https:// www.dicksborogaa.com/products For any queries contact any committee member. https://www.dicksborogaa.com/contact (Camogie contact runai Ted Carroll (086) 837 6544) KILMANAGH GBC GAA LOTTO RESULTS There was no winner of the GBC GAA draw this week. Numbers drawn were 5, 19, 28 & 29.

Lucky dip winners of €50 each were Caoimhe O’Connor, Siobhan & Donnacha Kenny and Sharon Hoyne. Promotors Prize went to Martin Prendiville. Next week’s jackpot will be €4,000. Tickets on sale at O’Connor’s Shop, Kilmanagh and from local promotors. Thank you for your continued support.

SCRAP METAL Once more, the annual Scrap Metal Collection in aid of Naomh Aodhán Community Centre Kilmanagh, was a great success. Míle buíochas to all who donated metal, to all the voluntary helpers and to the Harris Family for kindly hosting the event.

See you all again next year.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to the O’Gorman Family, Gortfree, Kilmanagh on the death of Paddy, Holycross recently. May he rest in peace.

RELAY FOR LIFE KILKENNY Relay for Life Kilkenny are inviting you to join us for a Celebration of Life and Remembrance of those we love and have lost on July 17th at 10pm virtually via our Facebook page. This is also a remembrance of those still fighting their battle with cancer, Fighting back alongside them on their journey. Our Candle Bags are now on-sale and available from the committee or you can PM our Relay for Life Facebook page.

Candle bags are €5 each and all monies go to the fundraising of Relay for Life Kilkenny in aid of the Irish Cancer Society. Our fundraising link for any fundraising you may be doing on our behalf, or, if you would like to make a donation is https://www. justgiving.com/campaign/RelayforlifeKilkenny. Many thanks for your help in helping us raise much needed funding for the Irish Cancer Society.

GBC ATHLETICS Our latest C25K (Couch to 5 kilometres) started recently. We would love for you to join us. It does not matter if you ran before or if you walk sometimes or even if you don’t exercise. This is your chance to do something for YOU and make great friends while you’re at it. Get in touch with any of the enthusiasts and make that commitment today! You won’t regret it.

Running for everyone else is at 7pm every Tuesday & Thursday . Wear hi-vis & fill in your covid form please. ​ KILMANAGH NOTES Anyone wishing to submit news items, events, announcements etc. can do so by email only to elanigan18@gmail.com. If you have any photos that you would like included, please send as an attachment.

URLINGFORD EMERALDS GAA CLUB Mega Bingo: Every Sunday, 6pm at Urlingford GAA pitch. Gates open at 5pm.

Single books and 1 sheet €10; Double books and 2 sheets €15. Extra jackpot sheet €3 or two for €5. Please support.

EMERALDS URLINGFORD & GRAINE LOTTO July 5 prize fund was: €12,400. Jackpot: €10,400.

Numbers drawn: 6, 12, 21 and 28, bonus no 8. No winner, and no match three winners.

Promoters prize: J. O’Dwyer.

Five lucky dips of €20 each: K&N Doyle, Kila Mercado, Paula Scott, Mary O’Leary, Brian Gleeson.

Next draw takes place on July 12 in the Clubrooms. Results next week.

URLINGFORD ON THE MOVE WALKING TRACK Works are commencing shortly for Urlingford on the Move’s new Community Walking Track in Emeralds GAA Clubgrounds, Urlingford, Co Kilkenny.

The walk way consists of: Walking surface, lighting, fencing, wheelchair friendly and own access gate.

Our vision is to provide a facility in Urlingford where everybody has the opportunity to be welcomed, to participate, to grow and be inspired to continue with a lifelong engagement in our community.

Urlingford on the Move have been successful in raising funding from various sources but there is still a shortfall, therefore we need and value your support.

You can support this wonderful amenity by donating €20 on their GoFundMe page https://gofund.me/84e0e081 for your chance to win one of three prizes: 1st: €2021; 2nd: €200; 3rd: €50 Donate €50 - three chances to win; donate €100 - seven chances to win a prize.

We value your support, thank you.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE The Mill Allotments: The allotments and Community garden are open to the public from 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday each week.

Courses for September 2021: Health Care Level 5: We are recruiting for new learners for the Health Care Level 5 course commencing in September 2021.

Pathway to Employment Course, Level 4: We are also recruiting for the Pathway to Employment Level 4 course which will be commencing in September 2021.

Please contact Sue or Kevin in the Mill Family Resource Centre for more information on these courses and application forms on 056 8838466.

Community Bank Savings: Are available at the Centre.

Senior Alert: If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue or

Josephine on 056 8838466.

Counselling Services: Teens from age 12 upwards, adult and family low cost counselling services are available at the Mill Family Resource Centre, please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment on 056 8838466.

Appeal for Clothes Donations: Any clothes donations would be appreciated in aid of teen addiction and general counselling services. Donations can be left into the Mill Resource Centre. Contact Sue on 056 8838466.

Services at the Mill FRC: Family Support; One to One Support; Drop in IT Support - computers / laptops & mobile phones; Senior Alert; Community Savings; Room Rental; Social Welfare, HSE, Tax, Garda & Government Forms & advice on completing all forms.

Internet Access, Printing & Photocopying; Emailing; Scanning; Typing Service; C.V. / Cover Letters’ Homes for the Elderly.

URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT Draw takes place every Sunday evening in the Urlingford Arms Hotel. Last Sunday’s share of the pot was €266 and was won by Amanda O’Shea, well done Amanda!

Next week, half the pot goes to the Urlingford Tidy Towns and the other half could be yours, don’t miss out, get your envelopes in local shops or from any committee member in Tidy Towns.

URLINGFORD LIBRARY Urlingford Library is jam packed with new children’s books for all age groups. Just perfect for our Children’s Summer Stars Reading Challenge. Call in and pick up a registration card and get started! Telephone 056 7794182 to book a time for a visit.

Our opening times are: Tuesday 10-8pm.

Wednesday Closed; Thursday 10-5pm, Friday 10-1.30, Saturday 10-1.30pm.

GORTNAHOE BINGO The joint committee of the Gortnahoe/ Glengoole GAA and Gortnahoe Hall were delighted again with the massive support last Saturday evening’s drive in bingo. The car numbers were up again last Saturday night. There was a lot of new people there for the first time, from many parts of the country. The big pay out of over €3,500 is the reason why more people are coming to our bingo. It was great to see the support from the parish which is greatly appreciated.

This is a fundraiser for two organisations in the parish, the GAA and the Hall who are in the process of developing both facilities and to make the bingo a success we need lots of support from our own parish. Bingo continues again this Saturday night, 17th July. Gates open at 4.30 for a 6.00 start. Over €3,500 in prize money which includes €500 for one special game. There will be also a monster raffle for cash prizes on the night.

Looking forward to your support.

LOCAL LINK BUS SERVICE The Local Link Bus Service Urlingford area - Urlingford & Galmoy to Kilkenny services continue to operate at 50% capacity every Tuesday.

To book for either of these services please call 1890 424141 or 056 7715912 Monday to Friday 9am to 4.30pm.

RELAY FOR LIFE KILKENNY Relay for Life are inviting you to join them for a Celebration of Life and Remembrance of those we love and have lost on July 17 at 10pm virtually via our Facebook page.

This is also a remembrance of those still fighting their battle with cancer. Fighting back alongside them on their journey.

Our Candle Bags are now on sale and available from any Committee member or you can PM the Relay for Life Facebook page. Candle bags are €5 each and all monies go to the fundraising of Relay for Life Kilkenny in aid of the Irish Cancer Society.

Our fundraising link for any fundraising you may be doing on our behalf or if you would like to make a donation is https:// www.justgiving.com/campaign/RelayforlifeKilkenny.

URLINGFORD / GRAINE DEFIBRILLATOR GROUP In case of emergency, call: 085 2726396.

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Community & GAA Notes URLINGFORD NEWS Anyone wishing to submit news items, club events, announcements etc can do so by emailing urlingfordnotes@gmail.com. If you have any photos you wish to include, please forward them to the email address.

DUNNAMAGGIN LOCAL LOTTO DRAW 5TH JULY 2021 Winning Numbers : 10 , 11 , 20. No Winner. Draw for 5 xv€ 30. Nikki McCormack ( Jim McCormack Kells),Shauna Hayes ( John Hayes ),Benny Smyth ( Breda Smyth ),Jim McCormack ( Jim McCormack Kells),Michael O Keeffe ( Michael O Keeffe) Jackpot next week € 2,350. Draw next week 12th July at 9.00 pm. Venue St. Leonards’ Hall, Dunnamaggin All welcome DUNNAMAGGIN DEVELOPMENT GROUP Sli na nAingeal was formally blessed and opened last Sunday by Father Fearghus Farrell. Sli na nAingeal is a magical walkway through the trees adorned by small wooden doors, beautifully painted by the children of St Leonard’s National School. After the blessing the families present engaged in fun activities with tea/coffee available in Madge’s Cafe in the village. Sli na nAingeal is a welcome addition to the village. On July 25th our monthly market will take place.

Each month there are numerous crafts and food stalls. This month the Scouts will have a fundraiser BBQ for all to enjoy and as usual there will be activities for the kids to enjoy.

GAA DEVELOPMENT Exciting times ahead for the GAA Club.

Approval at our EGM for the 2021-2023 Development Plan. This allows for Land Purchase, Gym, Ball Wall, Scoreboard & 2 Walkways. This is a huge development for the Club and our members. Great plans ahead so best of luck to everyone This Development will start Thurs 15th – Mon 19th July with the walkways at Dunnamaggin & Kilmoganny. Help is needed – tractors, trailers & labour. (Please contact Billy Heffernan 0868236840). Anyone interested in sponsoring a load of stone for €220 – we need 30 loads – please contact Jim Hickey (0879667739).

KILKENNY VOLUNTEER CENTRE Kilkenny Volunteer Centre is now providing a Garda E-Vetting service for local non-profit organisations. If you need to obtain Garda Vetting for your volunteers or staff, please contact Kilkenny Volunteer Centre and we can offersupport.: Evetting@ volunteerkilkenny.ie Ph: 087 1165658 CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE Community Radio are looking for volunteers to help out in Reception/ Research/ Presenting.

St Canice’s Credit Union are looking for members living in the common bond area who are interested in becoming Committee Board Members. They are keen to get new ideas and any age / all walks of life are asked to register their interest.

Home Rule club is interested in getting a volunteer to help promote its activities on social media If interested, please contact us on info @volunteerkilkenny. ie or call 087 1165658 or register on www. volunteerkilkenny.ie

GOWRAN GOWRAN AC Well done to the boys and girls U9 and U10 who took part in the County Championships at the Watershed recently, this was there first time at a competition for most of these young athletes.

U9 Girls May Timmins in the girls U9 came a very close 2nd in the 60m sprint and a clear 1st in the Turbo Javelin. Orla O’Keeffe and Pearl Treacy both ran well in the 60m & 300m.

U9 Boys Seán Carroll won the boys 300m with Tommy Carrigan coming 2nd. The 300m is always a tough one and even more this year all the Gowran boys bunched to the outside of a huge field. Hard luck to Ted Kelsey, Jack Healy and Patrick Drennan who had a fall in the race.

No medallist in the 60m sprint but Patrick

Drennan and Oscar Langton qualified for the final. Jack Healy and Fionn Smith were also flying in the sprint heats.

In the Turbo, Sean Carroll was a clear winner with Ted Kelsey just out of the medals.

U10 Boys and Girls In the U10s we had just 3 athletes. Mia Kennedy came 2nd in the Turbo and qualified for the sprint final.

Bobby Coomey and Matthew Byrne both did well in the Turbo with Bobby securing 3rd place. Matthew had a fine run in the 60m sprint.

GOWRAN RESULTS U9 GIRLS 60m - 2nd May Timmins Turbo - 1st May Timmins U9 BOYS 300m - 1st Sean Carroll, 2nd Tommy Carrigan Turbo - 1st Sean Carroll U10 GIRLS Turbo - 2nd Mia Kennedy U10 BOYS Turbo - 3rd Bobby Coomey Congratulations also to the U12 and U13 & U16-19 3000m who took part in the Leinster Championships. 21 athletes participated.

Overall we won 6 medals- 2 Golds, 3 silver, 1 bronze - and two close 4th place positions for Gowran.

U12 girls 1st Rachel Duff - 60m U12 Boys 2nd Evan Ryan- Turbo and 4th in High Jump 4th Robert Coogan - 600m U13 Girls 3rd Aoibhlinn Steger - High Jump U13 Boys 1st Tomás Carroll - High Jump 2nd Odhran Prendergast - Long Jump 2nd Odhrán Prendergast - 80m Rachel Duff ran with determination in the U12 60m sprint, finally getting to show her talent in her 1st Leinster individual race.

Rachel’s best heat time was 8.69 putting her the favourite for the final and giving her the nickname Rachel the Rocket. Speedster Odhrán Prendergast was a close 2nd in the boy’s U13 80m. Odhrán also jumped to success coming 2nd in the U13 Long jump with a jump of 4.29m. Evan Ryan was leading in the U12 Turbo for most of the competition with a throw of 28.06m and was narrowly beaten into 2nd in the final stages of throwing. 1st for Tomas Carroll in the high jump U13. While Evan Ryan and Robert Coogan just missed out on the medals coming 4th in the High Jump and 600m U12.

In the U17 Boys, Billy Coogan came 9th in a stacked race where the first 7 athletes beat the championship best time of 9:12 set in 2013. Billy ran a strong and steady race with a fantastic time of 9:25.

We had lots more quality performances and personal bests from all our athletes.

All the athletes competing were a credit to the club and we are very proud of each and every one of them. Also, a huge thanks to the parents who were so vigilant getting athletes to start lines and keeping them hydrated between heats.

Well done to David Denieffe, Shane Aston and all at Carlow IT for facilitating the day with the top-class venue and Athletics Leinster officials for organising the day.

FULL GOWRAN RESULTS U12 Girls Sprint 1st Rachel Duff Heats: 3rd Eimear Cottrell, 4th Lucy Cunningham U12 Girls 600m Heats: 9th Daisy Coomey 10th Orlaith Carroll U12 Girls Shot Putt 5th Niamh Brennan 12th Anna Kelsey U12 Girls Turbo 5th Anna Kelsey 8th Daisy Coomey 9th Niamh Brennan 15th Orlaith Carroll U12 Girls Long Jump 30th Eimear Cottrell 37th Lucy Cunningham U12 Boys Turbo 2nd Evan Ryan 5th Darragh Carroll

U12 Boys High Jump 4th Evan Ryan (losing out on countback) U12 Boys 600m Final 4th Robert Coogan 9th Darragh Carroll 12th David Timmins U12 Boys 80m 8th Robert Coogan Semis: 9th overall in the semis just outside of qualification - David Timmins Heat: 5th Cillian Murphy U12 Boys Long Jump 14th Cillian Murphy U13 Girls High Jump 3rd Aoibhlinn Steger U13 Girls Javelin 8th Eilish Keating U13 Girls 60m Heats: 5th Kate Hayden, 6th Eilish Keating U13 Girls 600m Heats: 7th Kate Hayden 11th Eve Doyle U13 Girls Long Jump 21st Aoibhlinn Steger U13 Boys High Jump 1st Tomas Carroll U13 Boys Long Jump 2nd Odhrán Prendergast U13 Boys 80m 2nd Odhrán Prendergast U13 Boys Javelin 6th Conor Carroll 7th Joe Hayes U13 Boys 600m 12th Conor Carroll Heat: 6th Tomas Carroll (missing out on the final by milliseconds) U17 Boys 3000m 9th Billy Coogan Link to full results: http://live.athleticsleinster.com/menu.html MOLLY’S TEA ROOM Molly’s Tea Room is open again every Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm.

KILKENNY VOLUNTEER CENTRE OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE Community Radio are looking for volunteers to help in Reception/ Research/Presenting.

St Canice’s Credit Union are looking for members living in the common bond area who are interested in becoming Committee Board Members. They are keen to get new ideas and any age / all walks of life are asked to register their interest.

Home Rule club is interested in getting a volunteer to help promote its activities on social media. If interested, please contact us on info @volunteerkilkenny. ie or call 087 1165658 or register on www. volunteerkilkenny.ie GOWRAN PARISH Mass is being streamed every morning on Gowran Parish Facebook page, masses this week Gowran Sunday at 11.30.am, Monday at 9.30.am, Wednesday at 9.30am, Thursday at 9.30.am and Friday at 9.30.am.

GOWRAN HOUSE Gowran House is open to the public at weekends from 2pm till 6pm. New items have been added, and the 3 keystones from the Alms will be on display. Masks are required unless exempt, social distancing can be always maintained.

Gowran Park The restaurant is serving food and beverages on the balcony area on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Booking is advised at all times due to limited amount of outdoor space. To book a table please call William on 0860230255 or Edwina on 0830345224.

GOWRAN PITCH AND PUTT Juvenile evenings have return from 9th July.

YOUNG IRELANDS GOLF CLASSIC Two great days of golfing at the Annual Golf Classic in Gowran Park. Many thanks to all who participated & to the corporate sponsors. Your continued support is greatly appreciated. Prize winners will be announced in coming days.

SPORTS ROUND–UP - MICHAEL O’LEARY Heartbreak as minors lose out to late rally

Young Irelands Gowran 1-15 James Stephens 1-17 There was heartbreak for the Minors as they lost out 1-17 to 1-15 against James Stephens in Gowran last week. The Gowran lads played the better hurling, but unfortunately a number of missed chances - 12 wides & missing goal opportunities - proved to be their detriment, and they were denied on numerous occasions by the brilliance of James Stephens Goalkeeper Daniel Power.

Lining out minus Killian Carey & Patrick Langton, the Village made a bright start & they led 1-4 to 0-3 at the first Water Break.

However, the Gowran lads responded & a well taken goal from Daniel Manning narrowed the gap to a point (1-4 to 1-3) & it was mainly point for point for the remainder of the half as the Teams were all square at the interval, 1-7 each.

They finished the half strongly with points in quick succession from Manning (2), Mikey Knox(Free) & a Superb effort from play by Ben Phelan, Young Irelands had actually led on the stroke of Half-Time before the Village levelled with a pointed free.

In a closely contested third quarter, Young Irelands outscored their opponents 0-5 to 0-4, as Knox added four further points (3 frees and a ‘65), while Padraig Naddy pointed superbly from play as he brilliantly fetched a puckout before sublimely striking over.

Following the final Water Break, When Young Irelands stretched the lead with points from a Mikey Knox & another Superb inspirational long-range effort from play by Ben Phelan, it appeared that they were closing in on victory - 1-14 to 1-11 - but James Stephens dug deep to outscore Young Irelands 0-6 to 0-1 over the final 10 minutes with five of those points coming from placed balls.

It was certainly a game that Young Irelands will have felt they left behind.

Goalkeeper Barry Dunne gave a highly accomplished performance, Bobby Brennan was strong, authoritative & dominant at Full-Back, while Ben Phelan, Sean Fitzpatrick & Rory Farrell all performed extremely well in defence.

Top Scorer Mikey Knox had a 100% accuracy from frees, while in an attack that often endured a frustrating evening, Padraig Naddy & Daniel Manning in the first half did their utmost to lead the way, while Ray Lawson worked very hard without getting his just rewards.

VALIANT EFFORT TO A STANDSTILL THAT COMES UP SHORT In their Second Match played in the U-15 Roinn A League, Young Irelands of Gowran gave a massive effort but ultimately fell short against James Stephens at a dull & dreary Gowran last Tuesday Evening, as their luck deserted them in front of goal.

Playing against a strong wind throughout the opening-half, the Village led 1-3 to 0-3 at the Water Break during the midway point of the half.

They began to accelerate & they had built up a 1-7 to 0-4 lead by the 25th minute, with Young Irelands very wasteful shooting throughout the opening-half with 9 wides against just two for their opponents.

However, the Gowran lads finished the half strongly with points from Jim Conlon (2 frees) & Thomas Langton, as they now trailed by just three points at the interval(1-7 to 0-7) & having to faced into the wind for the Second-Half.

To their credit, Young Irelands continued their momentum into the restart & further points from Cian Phelan & Jake Kelly(free) narrowed the gap to just the minimum - 1-7 to 0-9 - & they were now the ones showing the greater intent & playing the better hurling.

However, James Stephens steadied the ship with consecutive points to restore their three point advantage (1-9 to 0-9), before substitute Billy O’Keeffe pointed from play in the 46th minute. 1-9 to 0-10.

That point was Young Irelands final score as James Stephens added two points late on to secure victory. 1-11 to 0-10 As mentioned, the Gowran produced a massive effort throughout the Second Half, but most importantly they couldn’t manufacture that all important goal.

They created several chances & enjoyed plenty of possession, but a combination

of a lack of composure at vital moments & strong defending from their opponents was to be their undoing.

Overall, It was a low scoring Second-Half with scores difficult to come as defences were on top.

Young Irelands were best served by the brilliance of Shane Simpson at Centre-Back who gave a masterclass from start to finish, the equally outstanding Ruairi Phelan alongside him, while David Langton & Tim Brennan were highly immaculate also with Jim Conlon, Sam Brennan & Thomas Langton very effective around the middle sector.

Young Irelands now play away to Dicksboro next Friday Evening.

Former Young Irelands Senior Hurler James McDermott is part of the James Stephens Management Team who currently top the League Table with three wins from three on scoring difference ahead of their James Stephens Green counterparts.

LANGTON GRABS GOLDEN BRACE After close calls against the James Stephens Minors & U-15 As, Young Irelands U-15 B Team prevailed in a Superb Contest where they had to ride their luck following a pulsating conclusion on Thursday night.

At the Water Break at the midway point of the first-half, the Sides were level at 0-3 each with the outstanding Tadhg Ahern(2) & Thomas Langton contributing to the scoreboard.

Ahern who scored 0-6(0-1 free) in total - 0-5 from play - pointed his free in the 23rd minute to put Young Irelands ahead, & they remained a point in the descendancy at the interval - 0-6 to 0-5 - as Michael Keating & Sam Brennan added further points.

O’Loughlin Gaels pointed twice in quick succession after the Half-Time break to edge in front(0-7 to 0-6), before Tadhg Ahern replied with the levelling point. 0-7 each.

Thomas Langton was a thorn in the O’Loughlins defence all evening & having been denied a goal on at least three occassions, he got his ultimate & deserved reward with a brilliantly taken goal in the 40th minute. 1-8 to 0-7.

However, O’Loughlins responded moments later as their Full-Forward smashed home a powerful goal.

Young Irelands refused to panic though showing great character throughout & Tadhg Ahern (2) with further points in the 46th & 52nd minutes respectively helped stay ahead heading towards the final 5 minutes. 1-11 to 1-9.

Victory appeared to be assured when Thomas Langton brilliantly finished off a superbly well worked move for another fantastic goal. 2-11 to 1-9.

However, they had to withstand a Grandstand finish as O’Loughlin Gaels added three late points to narrow the gap to two points - including blazing over a goal chance - to leave the Gowran lads on tenderhooks entering the closing stages.

Deep into stoppage time, O’Loughlin Gaels had a close range free in which a goal was required to snatch victory, The Young Irelands defence held firm as they did throughout -with Aaron Fenlon in particular superb - to hang on for a priceless victory as they have now made it three wins from 4 matches.

Meanwhile, also on Thursday night, the Young Irelands Intermediates were defeated 1-18 to 0-11 by Carrickshock in Hugginstown.

Carrickshock led 0-11 to 0-6 at the interval and 1-16 to 0-7 at the three quarter stage, & maintained control throughout the final quarter.

Before the match started, their was a minutes silence held in honour of the late Ollie Roche who passed away recently.

Ollie was a proud Carrickshock man & Treasurer of the County Bord Na Nog. Deepest Condolences to his Family on his Untimely Passing.

The Intermediates next game is next Thursday night at home to Conahy Shamrocks night.

KEATING & CARROLL LEADS THE WAY TO VICTORY An outstanding individual performance from Aidan Keating inspired Young Irelands to their Second straight victory in the U-13 A1

Hurling League against Rower-Inistioge in Gowran on Friday night.

Keating scored 1-6 - 1-4 from play - as they built up a sizeable lead at half-time, with his goal coming in the 9th minute, while a late rally of 1-3 in the final 5 minutes of the firsthalf proved highly significant.

Ciaran Carter pointed superbly from play in the 26th minute, while Aidan Keating & Conor Carroll added points to conclude the scoring for the half, but the undoubted highlight came in between those sequence of points.

Conor Carroll brilliantly pulled an unstoppable volley that flew past the goalkeeper, after great work from the FullForward line in the build up to the goal.

It was a sensational goal that produced a moment of brilliance & helped gain establish control.

The Second Half saw scores restricted to a premium, as Young Irelands remained in control playing into the wind.

Defensively, they were dominant & authoritative & it was only when RowerInistioge grabbed a goal near the end, that their advantage was narrowed.

Aidan Keating scored another superb point from play to conclude the Young Irelands scoring, as try & all Rower-Inistioge tried, they couldn’t reel them in further.

The Young Irelands U-13s made it the perfect weekend as they produced a blistering performance in an 8-14 to 4-1 win away t to Mooncoin on Sunday.

They will have another trip to South Kilkenny to look forward to away to Piltown on Friday night.

Gowran girls play part in reaching allIreland final The Kilkenny girls featuring 4 Young Irelands members qualified for next weekends All-Ireland U-16 Final after a pulsating 4-17 to 4-11 victory over Tipperary in a Superb Contest in Banagher on Sunday.

Marie O’Keeffe had a good solid consistent game at Full-Back, as she effectively dealt with the constant potent threat that the Tipperary forwards provided throughout.

Julie Lennon was introduced as a sub during the Second-Half & scored a point near the end of the match, while Ella Middleton also saw action when introduced in the final few minutes.

Ciara Byran is the 4th Young Irelands member of the panel, & they now have an All-Ireland showdown with Cork to look forward to next weekend.

Congratulations to them on their Semi-Final win & Very Best Wishes to them, the rest of the Playing Squad & Management in their pursuit of All-Ireland glory.

Meanwhile, there was further disappointment for the Young Irelands Senior Camogie Team as they were defeated 2-17 to 1-7 by Conahy Shamrocks at a dull & drizzly Gowran on Sunday morning.

The Gowran girls made a quick start with 0-2 inside the opening two minutes, & they led by 1-3 to 0-4 at the first Water Break courtesy of a Nessa Farrell flicked goal from an Eimear Naddy free.

However, the Conahy girls began to dominate & two goals late in the first-half gave them a 2-10 to 1-4.

Unfortunately, the timing of those two goals proved hugely significant & the Gowran girls were always chasing an uphill struggle despite their best efforts.

They will now play away to Piltown next Friday night.

ALL-IRELAND FINAL HEARTBREAK FOR MINORS Heartbreak for the Kilkenny Minors as they suffered All-Ireland defeat for the third consecutive year against Galway. Killian Carey was brought on for the final 10 minutes, as he won the penalty in which Billy Drennan brilliantly converted to bring Kilkenny.

Killian played his part in the build up to a Denis Walsh point that gave them the lead heading towards injury-time. 1-14 to 0-16.

However, the Tribesmen replied with the levelling point before Galway starman Liam Collins rifled home a goal to snatch victory & secure a 4th All-Ireland Minor in a row.

We welcome all GAA Club and Community notes for publication in The Kilkenny Observer email to sales@kilkennyobserver.ie

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

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Travel

Seduced by Zanzibar Forty years ago this week, Queen’s Greatest Hits topped the album charts, and it’s back again this month. Paul Hopkins recalls a visit to the birthplace of Freddie Mercury and the exotic romance of this beautiful East African island that never fades IT is the smells of Africa that get to me: the scorched, ochred earth at sunset, the strong smoke of sinewy stew, the oscillating breeze of the Indian Ocean. The air is rich now with aromatic spices wafting around me. I inhale: aniseed and anise, basil and bayleaf, cardamom and chilli.

Now tell me, says the old man with skin like parchment, what is this? And he proffers me a sliver

of berry he has pared with his knife from a small flowering crocus.

Cumin, I say in my flat Irish tone, twitching my nostril past it.

Yes, it is common, very common, he says, but what is it?

This is a small co-operative farm six miles north of Stone Town, capital of the island of Zanzibar, East Africa. In the predominantly industrial town of

BuBuBu, a collective of peasant folk eke out an existence by selling their fruits and spices. It’s a tough, competitive business and relies heavily on the purchasing power of neighbours and the casual curiosity of tourists.

There is no shortage of these intoxicating condiments. They grow in abundance: dill and fennel and ginger, lavender and liquorice, nutmeg and neem, and

saffron, the one that slipped past my senses — silly me.

We lunch 10 miles further up, in Mangapwani at The Serena Beach Club, backed by coconut palms, fronted by secluded white sandy beaches and rocky coves, looking out over an expanse of translucent turquoise ocean where dolphins arc, turtles potter and curtains of fish drift among rainbow coral gardens. Is this the

Have a free hotel night in great city of Manchester!

FINALLY, hotels across the UK have flung open their doors to visitors again. And Manchester – home many of the country’s ritziest places to stay – is no exception.

Now, according to a report in Time Out, in an effort to boost tourism over the coming months, the city has launched a campaign to pump life back into its neglected hotels by offering free nights to visitors.

The ‘Have a Night on Us’ scheme will grant visitors a free third night when they book a two-night stay at 12 of the city’s top hotels. At the more luxurious end, for example, you could try out Kimpton Clocktower and the Lowry Hotel, or if you’d prefer to go cheap, the likes of Holiday Inn and Roomzzz are also getting involved.

Because let’s be honest: there’s plenty else to spend your money on in Manchester this summer. Manchester International Festival makes a splashy return in July, and then you’ve also got Sounds of the City, the brand-new RHS Garden Bridgewater, Manchester Jazz Festival,

ultimate island paradise, I ponder.

There is much to do for the holiday-maker or honeymooner: swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, diving, dhow (that Arabic-like boat) trips and nature trails plus visits to the brooding caverns of the Mangapwani Slave Caves where the kidnapped were hidden after the abolishment of slavery made their shipment illegal, only to be smuggled down to the waiting ships at the dead of night.

Lunch is billfish, lobster, shrimp and curried peppers and potatoes, charcoaled in their jackets, and chapati bread. Fruit is in fine supply, paw-paws and mangoes, washed down with chai, the local tea served sweet in small glasses, and bottles of Safari, the kick-ass local lager.

Sated, by late afternoon, and still in the high 30s, it is time to head to Stone Town and settle in for the night in the colonial splendour of The Serena Inn. It is an exotic romance of sorts that increasingly draws visitors to Zanzibar. Last of the great slave colonies and once home to the sultans and conquerors of Arabia, the very name conjures up images of treasure chests, romantic dinners in perfumed court- yards and those dhows with their billowing sails, one of which I capture magnificently against a fierce and fiery setting sun.

Birthplace of Freddie Mercury,

Zanzibar — or Unguju in Swahili, the Arabic-derived language of the ethnic peoples of East Africa — is one of an archipelago or cluster of islands off Tanzania (and part of that country since soon after independence in the 1960s) that left the explorer David Livingstone “mesmerised’’ 100 years before that, and today has me and my fellow travellers soundly se duce d, as if by the wiles of a wanton woman.

Unquestionably the best hotel in the capital, the Serena Inn is a pervading property set in two historic seafront buildings that have been respectfully restored into what is now Zanzibar’s only member of the ‘Small Luxury Hotels of the World’ group.

The hotel has a prime location at the end of Shangani Street, less than five minutes meander from the heart of Stone Town.

As well as a very good seafront restaurant, there is a comfortable bar and lounge area and a grand swimming pool overlooking the ocean. There are 51 air-conditioned rooms, colonial in style and all en suite with mini-bars, satellite TV (shame on you), and a balcony, though the giant palms outside of mine sadly obscure a better view.

A walking tour of Stone Town is a must, with its winding, sometimes-cluttered side-streets, hawkers and stall holders and colourful characters, the predominant Muslim influence in dress and etiquette; its rich architecture, the Sultan’s palace, the giant ornate doors of the old Arabian and colonial buildings and the choral chant of those called to prayer in the local mosques.

Silks, perfumes, paintings and local trinkets entice one to entreat for a bargain and I bag one, an antique silver bangle with inlays of opal.

Music and traditional dance and long, iced-cold G&Ts under a starry, balmy sky and dinner and fine wine at Serena — though a better curry, for which the island is renowned, awaits me further up the coast — finds my appetite and senses richly rewarded and by midnight has me sleeping soundly to the light of the moon and the gentle lapping of the Indian Ocean, the bobbing dhows drifting homeward.

GETTING THERE...

Pride, and the well-received ‘Grayson’s Art Club’ exhibition at Manchester Gallery as well.

Several other hotels are planning to join the campaign, and with Manchester’s restaurants, bars and attractions all now

gearing up for return to something like normality this summer, there’s no better to time discover this properly marvellous city. Now you’ll have an extra day to take it all in, too.

With Aer Lingus using

Manchester a a main hub since the easing of lockdown, there is the added value for Irish visitors to the UK or those traveling further afield via this hub but fancy a few days in this great Northern England city.

Mahlatini, the Northern Ireland based travel specialists, offer a package from Dublin to Dar Es Salaam return flights, including: • Three nights at Selous Luxury Camp in Tanzania, (full board and game viewing) • Two nights at The Serena Inn Stone Town, Zanzibar (Half Board) • Five nights at the tropical Blue Bay Beach Resort, Zanzibar (Half Board).

• Low Season €3,495pp — High Season €3,965pp.

Connecting flight from Dar Es Salam extra. Mahlatini can also package a deal to suit your needs.

PLEASE NOTE; Prices may have varied and travel is pandemic dependent.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

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TV & Streaming

5

to watch right now on Amazon 1. THE MAN IN THE HIGH CASTLE

The Man in the High Castle imagines an alternate history where the Axis powers (RomeBerlin-Tokyo) win World War II. Based on a Philip K. Dick novel, the series follows characters in the ‘60s who live in a parallel universe, where Nazi Germany and the Empire of Japan control the US. But there’s impossible newsreel footage surfacing of a world where Germany and Japan lose the war, causing some to rebel. To really hammer home its dystopia credentials, The Man in the High Castle is steered by producer Ridley Scott. Fully realised and with a focused plot, this is gripping TV.

2. UNDONE

Exclusive: aliens are here on earth IF Netflix ends up revealing the truth about extraterrestrial life as it hints at in the trailer for Top Secret UFO Project: Declassified then they surely will have won the streaming wars once and for all.

The logline for the show claims that it is an “original factual television series featuring the most recent infor-

mation and proof exposing the most top-secret government projects that handled contacts with and cover-ups of, extra-terrestrial presence” on Earth.

Adding: “Though claims of extra-terrestrial encounters have long been dismissed, many believe the existence of UFOs is not just likely, but a certainty.”

The show aims to present “proof” that we are not alone, and seemingly that our alien overlords are only detectable on blurry cameras by men called Bob with a perm. In fact, the show is so certain that aliens are out there that the question is not if, but rather what is their intent?

The show is focused on re-

cent government reports on UFO’s, as well as interviews with experts in the field, in a noble pursuit to figure out why we are visited by banal discs that don’t seem to be up to much, year in year out.

Ultimately though, the show has hooked me and I will look forward to learning the truth on August 3 when the show arrives on Netflix.

Three streaming on Netflix OXYGEN (2021)

You’ll be spending a lot of time with Mélanie Laurent (Inglorious Basterds) in this contained sci-fi thriller. Inside a coffin-like medical cryo unit, Laurent’s Elizabeth Hansen wakes up to find that she’s trapped, running out of oxygen and can’t remember why she’s there.

Claustrophobic and high on tension, Oxygen is a solid sci-fi

entry, efficient and satisfying, without breaking any ground.

STOWAWAY (2021)

Adjust your expectations for this astronaut sci-fi. With only a handful of main characters played as the most normal of people, this is grounded space fare focused on a moral dilemma: When ship captain Marina (Toni Collette) discovers a stowaway (Shamier Anderson),

a life or death decision must be made. Oxygen’s running out and won’t be enough for their two-year trip to Mars. Anna Kendrick’s medical researcher Zoe emerges as the heart of the crew, though Collette’s intense deliberation as captain makes it all believable. Watch out for a divisive ending.

I AM MOTHER (2019)

I Am Mother might cover famil-

iar sci-fi territory, but if you’re after some James Cameron and Ridley Scott-channeling thrills, you’re in the right place. We follow a young girl named Daughter, who lives in a post- apocalyptic bunker with her robot, named Mother, whose purpose is to aid the repopulation of Earth. This intriguing premise and setting is ripe for suspense and dark twists, which I Am Mother delivers in style.

This unique series uses the Rotoscoping animation technique to tell the story of a young woman who, after suffering a near-fatal car accident, discovers she can manipulate time. Intriguing, right? It gets better: Bob Odenkirk plays Alma’s dead father, who enlists her help in investigating his murder. Bending both time and space, Undone is surreal and beautifully existential for those looking for deep material.

3. A VERY ENGLISH SCANDAL

A sex scandal in the UK Parliament? Starring Hugh Grant and Ben Wishaw? You can thank Russell T. Davies for dramatising this slice of late-’70s British politics. Jeremy Thorpe, a Liberal member of Parliament, wants to silence unhappy ex-lover Norman before his career ends up in tatters. Watch the murder conspiracy, big trial and media scrutiny through A Very English Scandal’s darkly funny lens.

4. FLEABAG

If somehow the Fleabag train passed you by, it’s time to let it hit you at its full, incredible force.

Phoebe Waller-Bridge writes and stars in the play-turned extraordinary comedy series. A 30-something woman who runs a cafe lives a sex-filled life with a sense of humor that hides the tragedies she hasn’t yet come to terms with. Just about wordfor-word perfect, with a fourthwall breaking device, Fleabag frequently does its best to both shock and devastate you, while being ridiculously funny.

5. CATASTROPHE

Featuring Carrie Fisher’s final TV role, Catastrophe is a rom-com about messy, chaotic people.

Londoner Sharon (our own wonderful Sharon Horgan) and Bostonian Rob have a oneweek stand that results in an unplanned pregnancy and Rob moving to the UK so they can start a family. The tricky part: Sharon and Rob don’t know the first thing about each other.

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Summer days

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

DAYS

Bricks 4 Kidz Does your child dream of a wonderful world of imagination and discovery? A Bricks 4 Kidz camp just might be the perfect place for your Master Builder to grow and learn and make new friends! Suitable for girls and boys aged 5 – 12, a Bricks 4 Kidz camp encourages learning through LEGO®-based play activities BRICKS 4 KIDZ is one of a select few educational play facilities accredited

by Science Foundation Ireland. This accreditation ensures that all our activities are in-line with the current

Irish curriculum for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths). The unique Bricks 4 Kidz LEGO® Kits and builds are designed by an education team including STEM professionals

and teachers to promote STEM engagement and active learning.

This year, Bricks 4 Kidz will be running their fun educational camps in venues around Kilkenny, Carlow, and Waterford. These camps will be even more fun than before, as there is a range of brand- new themes and builds within each camp! Whether your child dreams of piloting a rocket or a pirateship, exploring the jungle or the oceans, or becoming the greatest Pokémon trainer in the world, there is sure to be a Bricks 4 Kidz camp for them!

To ensure that every Master Builder stays safe and healthy, Bricks 4 Kidz have taken additional COVID-19 prevention measures at their camps. A “building pod” system keeps all children in small groups throughout

the week and limits their interaction to the other children in this pod. Social distancing measures are in place in all venues, as well as a contactless drop-off and collection system. Enhanced hygiene measures ensure that there is no sharing of equipment between pods during the camps, and each child will have individual and pod use of all equipment throughout the camp. In

addition to these measures, Bricks 4 Kidz management and staff have undergone the appropriate training and risk assessments to ensure the safety of all their activities.

The LEGO®-tastic Bricks 4 Kidz camps will be taking place in Kilkenny on the following dates: July 5th – 9th (St Canices Neighbourhood Hall), and July 19 th – 23 rd (St Canices NS), along with another week to be added

in August. All camps take place from 10am – 1:30pm Monday – Friday. Full details can be found on the website bricks4kidz.ie/carlowkilkenny-waterford. For more information on their camps, other venues, or to book a place, contact Kealan on 085 144 2783 or by email at ktyrrell@bricks4kidz.com.

Spaces are limited on camps, so call today to book your space!

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

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Summer days

DAYS

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

Health

The Code:

Rules and guidelines for back health EOIN EVERARD

Successfully avoiding future back pain, managing current pain and achieving full potential from your back requires that you adhere to the “code”, that is, the “code” required for a resilient back and a pain-free lifestyle.

As Captain Barbosa stated in that famous line in the film “Pirates of the Caribbean” upon reneging his deal with Elizabeth, “Ah, the Pirate’s code - they’re more like guidelines!”

The following principles aren’t the absolute rules for recovery but rather set of wise guidelines intended to be adaptable to you.

Here are some guidelines that form the code for achieving better back health.

Guideline #1: Dedicate yourself to practicing healthful back activity everyday.

Appropriate movement positively influences the health of every body system. Make a conscious effort to engage in healthy movement every day, and soon enough this will become a habit.

Guideline #2: Get the big picture right maintain balance.

You will achieve optimal health and healing by creating a balance of appropriate sleep, good diet, and a matched activity/training program.

Those who fail to recognize the importance of this balance will continue to rob Peter to pay Paul. Peter is opportunity and Paul is a lead weight dragging you down and thwarting your progress.

Guideline #3: Remove the cause. Avoid painful and weakened postures.

There is a direct correlation between posture, position and pain. Avoiding painful and weakened postures is one of my paramount principles.

Prepare the spine to bear load successfully by seeking and maintaining neutral spine posture.

Common sense corollary guideline #3: if certain postures and movements induce pain, identify these painful and weakened postures and avoid

them!

The trick is in performing “spine hygiene”. This means moving well throughout the day, avoiding painful movements, expanding your pain-free repertoire of activity capacity, and building some capacity for corrective exercise.

In other words, what you don’t do is just as important, if not more, as what you do do. With the Back-Aware Back plan we go over these movements in detail and show you how to use your belt to avoid the painful triggers for your spine.

Guideline #4: Beware of clinicians whose “treatments” require numerous return visits.

If you are injured and in pain and seek professional help, expect the competent expert to address and heal the problem within a reasonable amount of time. If a clinician’s expertise lies in relieving pain without curing the cause of the pain, the patient ends up seeing the clinicians business, they do nothing (other than possibly offering temporary relief) to address the overriding issue.

The best clinicians see you fewer times, as they teach you how to take responsibility for your healing, and give you the tools to do so.

Guideline #5: Be aware of “passive treatments”.

Treatment falls into two broad categories: • Passive treatment: designed to cure the pain (the symptom) • Active treatment: designed to address and cure the cause

Passive treatment is having somebody do something to you. For example, having an ultrasound machine rubbed over your back is passive treatment: the patient simply sits, stands or lies down while someone does something to the patient. Passive therapies administered from devices Importance of key core exercises for your back

movement pattern is before you can start prescribing it.

There is nothing in the training of family doctors that provides insight into the world of cutting-edge back health.

Shows the importance of lifting technique in spine hygiene

do not address or correct the cause of the pain. Passive treatment rarely increases the likelihood of a long-term back pain cure. In contrast, there is occasion where passive approaches such as certain chiropractic manipulations, or muscle based treatments address part of the cause.

They can enable a window of opportunity to enjoy a period of pain-free movement. But they must be combined with active patient engagement in enhancing movement quality to cure a patient.

Active treatment requires the patient to participate in some manner or fashion that works toward a cure. For example, learning to move in a way that avoids the pain triggers is an active treatment. Avoid becoming an ATM machine for ineffectual or incompetent clinicians: reserve your right to walk away if the clinician focuses all their efforts on relief and none on cure.

Guideline #6: Buyer beware - not all clinicians are competent.

Many back pain sufferers presume all clinicians are competent. Just as there are good auto mechanics and bad auto mechanics, good professors and terrible ones, there are good clinicians and poor ones.

Patients tend to place medical professionals on a pedestal

and a few will use this to their advantage. They adopt authoritarian attitudes that subtly or overtly imply, “How dare you ask questions about my professional methods!” But the patient is the consumer, you have full right to question why, and how a particular treatment plan is best for you.

Ultrasound, for example, a very popular passive technique, has never been shown to cure back disorders better than placebo. Surgery rarely cures the individual if after the surgery the patient continues to repeat the faulty movement patterns that caused the original disorder. I believe it should be legislated that no surgery can proceed until the mechanical cause of the pain been shown to the patient - I will couch you to find the cause in the next chapter. There is no questions that some soft tissue treatments such as a trigger-point therapy, Active Release Technique and topflight chiropractic treatment can assist in a fully successful program - assuming the treatments are few in number and they are combined with active treatments.

Guideline #7: If you’ve left the Doctor’s office with only pain pills and no plan for active treatment, you did not see a back expert.

Truth be known, many family doctors admit they don’t know what to do with back pain patients. They mean well, however, prescribing pain medications is what they know. Unfortunately, patients who have pharmaceutically numbed their pain often make matters worse in that they are able to continue using flawed and perturbed movement patterns. This makes a bad situation worse.

You need to know what good

Guideline #8: Establish the subtle balance between strength, power and endurance, mobility and stiffness.

If you add too much strength, you can “overpower” your back. The counterbalance for too much back strength and power is endurance and control. Endurance enables you to maintain perfect movement patterns as you get fatigued, repetition after repetition. Injury occurs when the perfect movement form is lost, causing stress and pain.

Spine conserving movement requires spine stiffness (or firmness), coordinated with the centered motion of the hips and shoulders.

Guideline #9: One therapeutic size does NOT fit all!

We all are unique creatures, we all have different backs and different hips that influence the back. The idea that a single magical exercise program exists that can be used in every instance is a ridiculous myth.

Too often medical professionals and physical therapists use a single mode or method for every single patient regardless of individualized circumstance. While that is easy and convenient for the doctor or therapist, it is disastrous for the patient.

It is critical that the healthcare provider delve deeply into the patient’s injury history and create a customized remedial strategy: • The first order of business is to make the right functional diagnosis - determine the motions, postures and loads that cause the pain.

• The second is to remove the cause.

• The third step is to choose the appropriate rehabilitative strategy that includes movements that avoid pain and heal damaged tissue.

• The fourth order of business is to enhance and broaden pain-free activities.

Be aware that there are fundamental patterns of movement. This book is loaded with guidelines for pain-free ways to sit, walk, lift, drive, sleep and live life. If you seek professional guidance to help execute this plan, demand determination,

care, and great attention to finding the cause, the corrective starting points, creating logical progressions of exercises and selecting an appropriate dosage. Upon completion of this book, however, most will be able to successfully direct their own plan.

Guideline #10: Success is achieved through continued personal re-assessment.

As recovery progresses, the program must evolve. Painfree movement patterns will expand, as will the “dose” of the training. Your pain-free tolerance will increase. The objective is to create training regimens that operate below the threshold that causes pain.

If your training session leads to pain, you’ve done too much, too soon. Thus, the final state of a program should be directed towards reducing pain. Subsequent stages are designed following re-assessment to increase pain-free activity.

Consider this case: The patient can find very few painfree activities. Getting up out of a chair and walking five steps might be painless, however six steps causes pain. Hence, their current pain capacity is five steps.

In this particular instance, the individual’s five-step pain capacity is so low that it is not feasible for them to work with a rehabilitative specialist. The patient does not have sufficient pain tolerance. One method for increasing this particular individual’s pain tolerance capacity is a common sense approach: every hour get up and walk five pain-free steps.

Slowly, over time, the patient will build capacity and be able to walk six steps, then seven, then eight and so on. Once the patient is able to walk say twenty steps, we might begin walks up and down the patient’s driveway every hour. When the driveway is no longer challenging, walk around the block three times per day. The work/ rest ratio changes to fewer, but more demanding sessions. The progression is guided by taking stock and reviewing progress through each stage.

We have now reviewed the guidelines that form the code!

Simply put, as you take your own journey away from back pain and toward back health, the more of these guidelines you can follow, the more successful you will be.

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Golf

Golf NOTES

CALLAN GOLF LADIES Callan Ladies Results Hole in One: When Eilish Ahearne scored a Hole in One on the 15th during the annual Geraldine Cup Competition cheers could be heard wafting around the course. The winner of the cup was Brid Brett with 43pts and the inform Ann O’Shea took 2nd place.

Callan Ladies secured a great win over a very strong Castlecomer team in the Intermediate Club Competition on Sunday 11th . Having lost 2 in Castlecomer and winning two in Callan it took the last match to the 18th hole where Claire Hendriques finished the job off.

Team: Mandy O’Brien Noelle O’Driscoll Claire Hendriques Ann Croke Betty McGrath Manager: Catherine Davis PLAY IN PINK The Course was fully booked on July 9th when the Play in Pink Competition to raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Research Institute took place.

The course was in top condition which led to huge scoring on the day.

Outright Winner was Father and Son duo of Bernard and Ben Moore 54pts 2nd Jamie Kavanagh/Adam Comerford 49pts Best Ladies Team: Miriam Fennelly/ Eleanor Moore 47pts Best Gents Team: Ross Holden/Shane

Kenny 44pts Best Mixed Team: Evelyn Murphy/ Tom Walsh jnr. 47pts 6th Mary D / John Grace 47pts Front 9: Stella Tennyson/Josie O’Gorman 27pts Back 9: Charlotte Booth/Lottie Booth 26pts Best Dressed Lady: Anna Starr Best Dressed Man: Seamus Foster Scramble Winners: Kim Mulqueen/ Ann Neary/Suzanne Edwards Full list of winners on website Thanks to all sponsors and to everyone who helped make this such an enjoyable day in aid of a very worthy cause.

CALLAN GOLF MENS South Leinster Callan’s match against Gowran on Thursday 8th July went down to the wire in this competition where 7 players take part in Singles match play so the first team to win 4 matches gets through to the next round.

With 4 matches at home and 3 away, Callan looked in good shape with 2 wins in Gowran from Tony O’Driscoll and P J Farrell and 1 from Patrick Dalton at home. Shane Kenny lost on the 17th in Gowran.

Two of the home matches were decided on the 18th Green with Joe Tierney and Brian O’Donnell missing out so it was down to the last player where Stephen Kelly was unlucky to be beaten on the 20th (2nd extra hole). Well done to all involved in managing and playing for this team, they were so close to winning in all of the 4 matches that were lost.

Jimmy Bruen This match was played on Saturday afternoon with 3 matches in Carlow and 2 at home which was a tough task given the large membership Carlow can draw on and their course being one of the most challenging in the region. The away pairs proved up to the task with James Logue and Sean Lyster winning 3 and 2.

James Holden and David Morris were beaten by the same score while Nicky Morrissey and Eoin O’Sullivan were all square after 18 and heading off down the 19th.

Meanwhile back in Callan both matches were ding dong affairs the whole way. Any advantage was soon dragged back and there was no time where either side could be picked as likely winners. After 18 holes the first pairing of James Donovan and Johnny Kennedy were tied and so headed off down the 19th and then the 20th. Meanwhile our 2nd pairing of Keith O’Dwyer and John Mitchell were 1 up on the 18th tee and halved that hole so we finally had 1 winner in Callan.

Back to the 1st match which by now was on the 21st which was halved as was the 22nd. Finally on the 23rd (5th extra hole) following a great drive

by Johnny Kennedy and a good first putt by him, James Donovan holed the most important putt for a deserved win for Callan.

The final match in Carlow was then called in so the overall result is 3.5 to 1.5 and on to the quarter finals to be played on or before July 25th against either Gowran or Rathdowney.

Barton Cup. This brought Callan up against Borris who had despatched Kilkenny in the previous round and so were a side to be given full respect. Callan had 3 matches at home and 2 away.

Niall O’Sullivan and Niall O’Connor won the 1st match in Borris on the 18th while James Holden and David Morris were beaten. At home in Callan, Ross Holden and Liam Rafter won 2 and 1, Denis Murphy and Sean Lyster won on the 18th and Richie Condon with Eddie Culleton were called in while looking like they would win their match so the overall result was 3.5 to 1.5. The next round is against Rosslare to be played on or before August 1st.

Upcoming matches

The Duggan cup 2nd round is Tuesday July 13th at 3.30 pm V Wicklow.

The next round of the Pierce Purcell against Rosslare is provisionally on Saturday 17th at 3.00pm.

Best of Luck to all involved and your support would be appreciated.

Men’s club Results.

Midweek July 7th Overall Brendan Grace (39) 55 pts Division 1 Nicky Morrissey (8) 41 pts Gross Patrick O’Hara (1) 36 pts Division 2 Alan Coleman (33) 43 pts Weekend Sat 10th / Sunday 11th Players competed for one of the most coveted of prizes in a Golfer’s year with the Junior (handicaps 4 to 9) and Intermediate (handicaps 10 and over) Scratch Cups format stroke play.

The Junior cup winner is a former member of Callan Liam O’Hara(4) with a score of 77 while another visitor Aaron Ronan(9) picked up best nett of 72.

The Intermediate cup results are: Winner Adam Comerford (10) of Castlecomer G.C. with 78.

Second Michael Murphy (10) Callan 82 back 9 Third Sean Hennessy (10) visitor 82 Jim Wellwood (13) Callan 83 Best Nett Billy Irwin (18) visitor 67 Upcoming Events July 24th / 25th Denis Lawlor’s Captains prize.

July 25th to Aug 2nd Open week check website for list of daily events and booking details.

Open Week this year includes the prestigious Golfers Digest Event on Saturday 31st July with very attractive prizes, booking via the Golf Digest Website.

CASTLECOMER GOLF Last week some of our lady members including Lady Captain Patricia and Lady Vice Captain Helen were busy marshalling the Dubai

Duty Free Irish Open at Mt Juliet Estate. They thoroughly enjoyed the event and had an opportunity to get a glimpse of the top golfers among them McIlroy, Lowry, Sharvin, Veerman and Lucas Herbert The Irish Open Champion 2021.

Our Friday Mixed scramble is well supported by club members. Entries to be submitted by Thursday 6 p.m.

RESULTS July 2: 1st Tommy Kealy Terry Boland Majella Deevy Bernie O Brien 26 5/8 2nd Eamonn McEvoy Joan Coonan Ann Breen Anna May Mullins 27 1/8 Congratulations to our All Ireland Women’s Fourball, Minor Cup, Intermediate Cup, Junior Foursomes and Irish Mixed Foursomes Teams on progressing to the next round of their respective competitions.

Competition Secretary Noreen Curry informed the ladies that commencing on July 6 there will be a weekly qualifying 9 hole competition which may be played each Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mr Vice Captain’s Prize to Ladies: Our ladies were most eager to enter this stroke competition hosted by Mr Paddy McGuinness our Mr Vice Captain. The event was very well supported, and the course once again was in pristine condition.

Many thanks to our hard working, dedicated ground staff who always ensure that members and visitors enjoy a memorable experience when playing the course at Drumgoole.

RESULTS: 1st: Patricia Doheny 70 2nd: Helen Murphy 71(b9) 3rd: Patrica Brennan LC 71 4th: Mary Brophy 73 Congratulations to all the Classic prize winners. The Classic was a huge success with 135 teams participating.

Thanks very much to the course staff for having the course in brilliant condition. Thanks to all the volunteers for their help preparing for the classic and their work over the course of the weekend. Thanks also to our staff in

the bar and to Cathal O Dowd for the excellent food from the bbq. Massive thanks to the classic organising committee for all their efforts. Thanks also to all our sponsors for their continued support. Finally thanks very much to all our members for giving such great support to the competition RESULTS 1st: James Bergin, Nicky Walsh, Paul O;Neill, Jonny Dowling. 98pts 2nd: Pat Kirwan, Adam Condon, Liam Dowling, Lucy Condon 96pts 3rd: Nicholas Walsh, Bernard Flaherty, Ian Hawe, Doc O’Connor 95pts 4th: Noel Rothwell, Cian Rothwell, Jack Rothwell, Eamonn Breen 95pts 5th: Margaret Ruth, Aine O’Shea, Theresa Sheeran, Ann Marie Kelly 94pts Ladies: Maureen Holohan, Majella Deevy, Siobhan Mc Evoy, Phil Dowling 92pts Over 55: Tom Staunton, Maria Downey, Shamus Malone, Joan Brennen 93pts Non Golf Irl: Jerry Callinan, Declan Dunne, Gavin O’Mahony, Sean Buggy 86pt Results of the Blue Monster singles (BF Construction & Creative Developments LTD) 1st Damien Kmox (7) 40pts 2nd Robert Brennan (7) 38 pts 3rd Colin Dunne (6) 38pts Best Gross: Padraig Currey (1) 33pts Class 1 (0-10) Thomas Breen (60 37pts Class 2 (11-18) John Phelan (12) 36pts Class 3 (19+) Stephen Allen (24) 37pts Seniors Golf results for Wednesday, 30th June.

1st - John Mulcahy (9), Ger Comerford (27), Phil Shore (27), 82 points.

2nd - Tom Mooney (18), Jerry Mullaly (20), Tommy Brennan (33), 78 points.

3rd - Tommy O Neill (10), John Shore (38), Eileen Fogarty (26), 77 points.

39 cards returned and teams selected at random by Leo Conway.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

Hurling Matters

Sport TJ’s tally see’s Cat’s Reach Provincial decider where they will face Dublin

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

KILKENNY set up a Leinster final showdown with the metropolitans after eventually see off a spirited Wexford challenge in an unforgettable contest at headquarters which needed extra-time before the black and amber booked their place in the final on a score line of 2-37 to 2-29.

Brian Cody’s charges led by a point at the break in normal time after an exhilarating first half, that was played at championship tempo in front of 8,000 lucky Gael’s who witnessed an amazing encounter.

But the game went to extratime when Davy’s troops responded to a late Kilkenny goal with three points in the closing stages of undoubtably the best game of the year to date, before the cats stronger bench edged them to victory at Croker.

The sides traded points four times in the opening ten minutes with the lively Eoin Cody denied a goal after an

Walter takes aim

excellent block by the Wexford sweeper.

The cats were creating some excellent goal-scoring chances but Wexford keeper Mark Fanning came to the rescue on these occasions, and it was the yellow bellies who opened up a 0-07 to 0-04 lead after 13 minutes, after points from the talented Lee Chin, Rory O’Connor and Matthew O’Hanlon.

But with Richie Leahy, TJ Reid and Cody registering the flag for Kilkenny, they drew level at 0-10 apiece after 27 minutes before Ballyhale sharp shooter Cody’s second point edged the Cats in front for the first time in a game that ebbed and flowed in front of the raucous crowd.

Wexford replied with scores from Morris, a second from Conor McDonald and O’Connor landed his third of the match in what was definitely a purple patch for Davy Fitzgerald’s men.

Wexford were certainly on the front foot, but the cats showed great fight and continued to reel the opposition in. The imperious Reid pointed then Tullaroan’s Martin Keoghan equalised before Cody’s third point and another Reid free put them two ahead but his nemesis, Chin reduced the deficit to the minimum at the interval when

Watch and learn - TJ Delivers

Extra.... Ex t Reid all ab

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Hurling Matters Shamrocks sharp shooter Eoin Cody

Thou shalt not pass

tra... out it!

he landed another free, his fifth of the half.

Kilkenny raced out of the blocks after the restart, two more points from Reid and one from substitute Conor Fogarty left the cats leading 0-18 to 0-14 after 40 minutes but Wexford again replied, with three points from

free’s before a great point from distance brought the rivals level for an EIGHT time!

The teams couldn’t be separated by the second water break – the tension inside Croke Park was palpable.

This game of cat and mouse continued – Wexford edged two ahead, but the cats hit the next four scores before sub-David Dunne made an immediate impact and raised the green flag just seconds after entering the fray. further scores from the yellow bellies had them three up with just 12 minutes remaining, but the cats again dug deep and hit the next four scores only to see Wexford draw level 2 minutes from time.

The impressive Eoin Cody appeared to win it for

A helping hand

Kilkenny when he latched on to a puck-out to find the net, but Wexford hit back with three points in a row to force extra-time, the equalising score coming from a long way out by full-back Liam Ryan. Glenmore net minder Eoin Murphy tried to bat out only for McDonald to slot the rebound to the net, but referee Fergal Horgan went to Hawk Eye – the players and fans alike waited – the decision -the point rather than the goal was awarded and the game went to extra-time.

If Eoin Murphy thought the drama was finished – he was mistaken! Murphy was sent to the sin-bin for dragging down Wexford’s Flood, denying a clear goal scoring opportunity.

Step forward Mark Fanning, the keeper slotting home the resultant penalty, despite the best efforts of replacement cat’s keeper Darren Brennan.

The cats dug deep and despite Wexford’s man advantage, trailed by just one point at the interval in extra time.

Brian Cody’s words of wisdom struck a chord with his team and they would go onto to hit 1-6 without reply in the final period. James Bergin hit two lovely scores to accompany others from TJ and Billy Ryan.

One of the biggest cheers from the Kilkenny faithful came courtesy of a lovely solo goal from Walter Walsh.

Cody’s cats were not to be denied a final appearance.

Relief at the whistle. What a game of Hurling.

Kilkenny: Eoin Murphy (0-1, 0-1f); Tommy Walsh (0-1), Huw Lawlor, Paddy Deegan; Darragh Corcoran, Padraig Walsh, Conor Browne; Richie Reid (0-2), Richie Leahy; Adrian Mullen (0-1), Martin Keoghan (0-1), Alan Murphy (0-1); Eoin Cody (1-5), TJ Reid (0-16, 0-11f, 0-1 ‘65), Billy Ryan (0-1).

Subs: Conor Fogarty (0-1), James Maher, John Donnelly (0-1), Walter Walsh (1-1), James Bergin (0-2), Michael Carey (0-1).

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

Hurling Matters

Sport 18,000 Gaels permitted for Leinster showdown Brian Cody Kilkenny Manager (Stepping into the Final)

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

TOMORROW will see Kilkenny attempt to secure a 17th O’Keefe Cup of Brian Cody’s reign when they take on Dublin at Croke Park (Throw–in 7.30pm).

Whether or not the final can live up to the semifinal feast that the Cats and Wexford served up, remains to be seen, but one thing is guaranteed – Kilkenny will not take the metropolitans for granted.

Truth be told, most pundits and fans expected the final to be a winner takes all battle between Galway and Kilkenny, with the outright league title crown accompanying the Leinster title.

Dublin boss Mattie Kenny clearly didn’t get that memo, as his side claimed an unexpected win over the fancied westerner’s.

Galway were simply not only out-thought, but out-fought by the capital side.

Of course, a case can be made for the home side.

Their semi-final win saw great displays from many players, but the standout performances were the Burke’s - Conor and Donal, Danny Sutcliffe and Ronan Hayes.

Conor Burke covered as lot of ground in the defensive third from his midfield berth, while Donal’s accuracy from placed balls was key. In Sutcliffe they have an undoubted talent. He provides much drive from the half forward line, and finished the game with three points the last day. At full forward, Ronan Hayes provides a focal point for attacks, and brings the on-running players nicely into the game. Worth mentioning also that Daire Gray notched two points from wing-back.

On the evidence of the dubs last outing, Galway native Kenny will not be found

Cody’s Cats seek capital gains The great TJ Reid

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Hurling Matters

We have lift Off

Brian Cody Mattie Kenny Dublin Manager

wanting in the tactical battle with his opposite number Brian Cody. However, if this, their first Leinster Final appearance since 2014 is to end in victory, it will take a shock of epic

proportion.

The Dub’s can’t afford this game to turn into a shoot-out – Kilkenny have too much quality in whatever starting XV take to the turf along with an extremely strong bench. In defeating Wexford, seven subs registered scores – and this undoubtably helped Cody’s mean reach tomorrow’s final.

Kenny’s men will know that any free’s conceded will

be punished by TJ. The Ballyhale man finished the Wexford game with a 16-point haul. That’s just two points less than the Dublin total against Galway.

How the sky blue’s defence cope with the Shamrocks trio of TJ, Eoin Cody and captain Adrian Mullen will have a huge bearing on proceedings at headquarters.

When Kilkenny supremo Cody sits down to pick his side, he will be faced with some tough decisions.

Walter Walsh, fresh from his lovely solo effort in the semifinal and the impressive James Bergin will have given the boss plenty to ponder. Either way, the talent is there.

Eoin Murphy will hope for a more relaxed day at the office with no trips to the sin-bin!

In front of the Glenmore man, O’Loughlin Gaels duo of Deegan and Lawlor ably supported by Tullaroan’s two Walsh’s will hope to be less troubled by the Dub’s attack than the Lee Chin lead Wexford threat.

Croke Park awaits for the finalists, hopefully not long before Bob comes home.

>> SHERRY SAYS...........

Danny Sutcliffe Dublin

FORGET about three lions, it’s all about the real Cats. Having re-watched the semi-final win over Wexford, there’s definitely only one game in town. What a game. At this stage all the cliches and superlatives have been used. Whether or not they will ever do justice to what was one of the great hurling games ever remain to be seen.

Great game as it was, it will only live long in the memory if the job is completed at headquarters tomorrow. Yes, it’s a banana skin, the Dub’s have nothing to lose and everything to gain. I expect Mattie Kenny’s charges to bring the fight and give it a good lash.

Leinster titles shouldn’t be easy pickings. Brian Cody’s men will have to earn the right to lift the cup and collect the medals.

This squad have been questioned over the past few years, the manager too. Now is the time to show that Kilkenny are still dining at Hurling’s top table. A 17th O’Keefe Cup of Cody’s tenure is the perfect stepping stone to what we hope will be more days out in the capital.

VERDICT – It’s coming home.

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kilkennyobserver.ie

Camogie news

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

FOLLOWING a successful Littlewoods League campaign, Brian Dowling will be hoping his players can take recent form into their championship opener against Clare.

The Cats crowning as League champions has certainly whet the appetite as our ladies seek to secure back-to-back All-Ireland titles. Of course, it won’t be easy, but early indications are that the team have the necessary hunger and desire to have a successful championship.

First up the ladies is the challenge of Clare. Ger O’Connell’s team recently secured Division One League status following a muchneeded play-off win against Dublin. O’Connell has since see his team lose in Munster to Limerick, but will be hoping that an early meeting with the current O’Duffy cup holders will bring out the best in his troops.

It will be interesting to see the starting XV that the O’Loughlin Gaels clubman selects, at the time of writing, Dowling is keeping his cards close to his chest. Undoubtably Kilkenny possess enough strength in depth to secure an opening day win against the Banner, but you can guarantee that the manager will have been preparing his charges with the same attention to detail as he would for the likes of Galway.

The end of the league campaign saw the return to action of 4-time all-star Katie Power, and I would imagine Dowling will be keen to get more minutes into Power ahead of more testing encounters.

Another Katie that will be hoping to continue excellent form is St Martin’s Katie Nolan.

Recently she picked up the PwC GPA Women’s Player of the Month Award in camogie for the month of June.

Nolan hit three crucial scores on the league final win over Galway at headquarters last month and is acutely aware that very little separates the teams in the ladies code.

“Playing senior inter-county camogie, there’s nothing in it between a lot of the teams,” she says.

“We’ve been lucky enough to get to the [All-Ireland] final the last two times, but a small thing and it could have been another team. One thing when we do play Galway is that we’re two hurling sides. It makes for a good match.

“Preparation is going well.

Training is intense. We’re taking lumps out of each other, the way it should be. It’s enjoyable as well. That’s an important part

Dowling: Let’s beat the Banner of it.”

Along with Nolan, Kilkenny have plenty of scoring threat all over the field, but in Aoife Doyle and Denise Gaule, they possess high caliber scorers. Expect the cats to really test Clare keeper, Doireann Murphy.

Clare will look to Sixmilebridge attacking star Chloe Morey to carry the fight to the Kilkenny defence. Morey top scored for the Banner with a tally of 1-9 in their league play-off victory over the Dub’s.

Morey will look to Becky Foley and Eimear Kelly for scoring support.

With further games against Westmeath and nemesis Galway to come, Dowling will demand a winning start in Kilkenny’s bid to retain the O’Duffy Cup.

Brian Dowling

Aoife Doyle

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Camogie news Davina Tobin

>> SHERRY SAYS...

I hope our camogs don’t put management and supporters through the mill like their hurling counterparts did recently!

While many eyes will be on the much-anticipated rematch against Galway in the final group game, Brian Dowling will have his team focused on the task in hand – and that’s the Banner.

In an ideal world, the selected XV will perform well from the start and give the manager the opportunity to get some much-needed championship minutes into the wider squad, including Katie Power. Fans across the county will be hoping that Power can have an injury-free campaign, and I’m sure Katie wouldn’t mind that either!

The resilience this squad has shown over the last 18 months has been incredible.

Hopefully they won’t need to dig too deep into their reserves tomorrow. Beat the Banner, then switch the focus to Westmeath, we’ll deal the tribeswomen when the time comes.

VERDICT: Cats to secure victory. ** Don’t forget our U16 Camogs have a rather important game this weekend too. Seamus Kelly’s team take on Cork in the All-Ireland Final, following an impressive 4-17 to 4-11 win against neigbours Tipperary. Best of Luck to Seamus and the team!

Bring it home!!!!

‘Look Who’ s Talking’

Player Name: Katie Nolan Club: St Martin Position: Forw s ard Sporting high light so far: Winning senior Ireland 2020 All

Aoife Norris

If you could on to 1 singer or ly listen for the rest of band life, who wou your ld you choose?

Macklemore Pet Name: Maize- Dog. Ch Tina, Turner, ickensRo Bernie, Serena se, Alice, and Venus Best Holiday Destination do ne & to do: San Diego do ne Thailand to do and Sporting Idol Lindsay Peat & why: at the top leve- Played sport she ever l of every played If you had to yourself in 3 describe words: Bogger Honest Sporty

Party of 6

Denise Gaule

You are allow 6 chosen guesed to invite 6 famous pe op • Michael D H ts & reasons for inviting le for dinner.....name th e • Katie Tayler iggings so I could see his ! dogs fo r ba ck up • Ronaldo - be if dinner isn’t • Serena Will cause his lifestyle is men going well ia tal m s to try ge • Michael Va n Gerwin to get some Wimbledon tickets • Lindsay Pe at to talk about some dart tips

t her sporting career Team mates!

• Best traine r - Philly Lark • Worst traine in • Queen of st r - Pat Neill yl e Kellyann Doy • Best Taste le • Worst tast in music - Mary O’Connell e in music - Co • Most diffic ult opponent llette Dormer - Davina Tobi n

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James Stephens v O’Loughlin’s U6

Sport

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

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James Stephens v O’Loughlin’s U6

James Stephens v O’Loughlin’s U6 blitz in Larchfield Great evening’s hurling with some future Kilkenny stars. Great to see so many youngsters involved with both clubs at such a young age

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Motoring

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

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Motoring

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Motoring

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

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Memoriams/Miracle prayers

News Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL Aine & Eugene Brennan intend to apply for Planning Permission to construct a 51 square meter single storey extension to the rear of an existing dwelling, elevational changes and all associated site development works at Kilkiernan, Ballyfoyle, Co. Kilkenny. R95 YR77 The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application.

The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Gittens Murray Architects Ltd , 5 William Street Kilkenny Tel: 056 7753933 www.gmarch.net KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We BIGbin Waste Tech Ltd. intent to apply for permission for placement of a portable, pay-to-use waste compactor for the acceptance of residual and food waste and a portable, pay-to-use compactor for mixed recyclables at Crehan/ McCabe’s Supervalu Callan, Green Street, Callan, Co. Kilkenny R95 N40P. This activity requires the developers to possess a waste collection permit/certificate of registration.The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John St. Kilkenny during its public opening hours, 9am – 2pm and 2pm – 4pm Monday to Friday.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing, on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks, beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL I ,Susan Dowling, wish to apply to above authority for permission for the following at Fairview Baurnafea Castlewarren Co.Kilkenny (a) Extension to side of Dwelling House (b)Associated Works The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application.

The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Susan Dowling

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCILRETENTION PERMISSION I, Wayne McKenna, hereby apply to the above Planning Authority for Retention Planning Permission for a Front Porch (2.55M2) Rear bedroom/bathroom extension (42.75M2) and side boiler house (1.71M2) erected to my property with associated site works located at Old Road, Mooneenroe, Castlecomer, Co Kilkenny – R95E20V The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application.

The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Michael Condon MRIAI, Architect, MRC Design Ltd – 1 City Wall, James Street, Kilkenny Ph. 087 2032869 KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL I Aidan Kelly Agricultural Design & Planning Services (085 7466211, www.adps. ie) intends to apply to Kilkenny County Council on behalf of my client Matthew Hogan . Permission to construct (i) cubicles shed extension with slatted tanks (ii) Loose shed (iii) walled silage slab and all associated site works. Retention for (i) cubicle shed (ii) walled silage slab is also required at Gaulstown, Ballyfoyle, Co. Kilkenny.The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9.00 a.m. - 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL Retention Permission is sought by Ger & Phil Walsh for the following: (1.) To retain elevational changes and amendments to existing dwelling house from previously granted planning permission ref. no. P. 08/279, (2.) retention of existing domestic garage, (3.) retention of existing shed and all associated site development works at Finnan, Ballyragget, Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application.

The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

Motors Classifieds

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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Classifieds Motors

NOW OPEN SATURDAY MORNINGS 9.30am to 12.00pm

CAR WASH – 056 7726289 TYRE BREAKDOWN SERVICE

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

PAUL DAWSON 11TH ANNIVERSARY

PAULINE KENNEDY 19TH ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Pauline Kennedy, late of 12 Hazel Grove, Kilkenny who died on 10th July 2002.

In loving memory of Paul Dawson, late of 447 Mill Street who died on July 16th 2010.

It was a sudden parting Too bitter to forget Those who loved you dearly Are the ones who can’t forget.

Beloved St. Clare,

Always remembered by your loving husband Colm daughter Caroline, sons J.P and Decky

Anniversary Mass in Church of the Assumption, Callan on Saturday July 17th at 6.30p.m May he Rest in Peace

by your trust in God’s providence, obtain help for all the poor and needy; by your love for the Infant Jesus, obtain the protection of our families; by your love for Jesus crucified, obtain for us courage in every trial; by your love for Jesus in the Eucharist, obtain our request……….. by your attentiveness to the Holy Spirit, obtain for us the grace of prayer and devotion; by your likeness to Mary our Mother, obtain peace in our hearts our homes and our world.

Amen. A.ON

The Miracle Prayer

The Miracle Prayer

The Miracle Prayer

We miss you from your fireside chair Your loving smile and gentle face Your vacancy no one can fill We miss you Pauline and always will

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M

We often sit and think of you And think of how you died To think you could not say goodbye Before you closed your eyes.

Fondly remembered by Mam Dad and family.

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.B

Beloved St. Clare,

by your trust in God’s providence, obtain help for all the poor and needy; by your love for the Infant Jesus, obtain the protection of our families; by your love for Jesus crucified, obtain for us courage in every trial; by your love for Jesus in the Eucharist, obtain our request……….. by your attentiveness to the Holy Spirit, obtain for us the grace of prayer and devotion; by your likeness to Mary our Mother, obtain peace in our hearts our homes and our world.

Amen. M.OB

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. J.M

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021

63

kilkennyobserver.ie

Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.B

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.ON

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.B

The Miracle Prayer

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.B

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. T.B

A prayer to the Blessed Virgin

A prayer to the Blessed Virgin

(never known to fail).

O most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, O Star of the sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to grant my request.

(Please state request). There are none that can withstand your power. O show me herein you are my Mother. I place this cause in your hands (three times). Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. Amen.

This prayer must be said for three days and after this the request will be granted. This prayer must be published immediately. B.D

(never known to fail).

O most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, O Star of the sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to grant my request.

(Please state request). There are none that can withstand your power. O show me herein you are my Mother. I place this cause in your hands (three times). Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. Amen.

This prayer must be said for three days and after this the request will be granted. This prayer must be published immediately. M.B

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 July 2021