Community & GAA Notes

LOTTO

Lotto Results 7th Feb. Numbers drawn 4, 7, 29. No Jackpot winner. €30 each to Regina D’arcy, Rachael Comerford, Adrian Murphy, Roisin Byrne, Michael Tobin. Next weeks Jackpot is €1900. Thanks to all for your support.

MEMBERSHIP

Clara GAA, Camogie & LGFA Membership 2023 is open. Thanks to those who have completed this to date. Please log in to Foireann or download the Foireann App to confirm your details & pay by credit/debit card.

Please note, as training is now resuming, ALL Players & Coaches must have membership paid before taking part in training sessions/matches.

If experiencing problems please contact Club Registrar, Brian Kennedy 086 7355856 / registrar.clara@gmail.com

FOOTBALLERS LOSE

A poignant minute’s silence preceded the first round Senior Football League match between Railyard and Clara in Moneenroe on Sunday morning, in what was Clara’s first adult fixture since the passing of the great James Nolan. Fittingly the first two scores of the game were provided by his cousin Kevin and his brother Peter, whose point and goal respectively had Clara four points to the good early on. Joe Connolly and the Railyard free taker then exchanged points before disaster struck for the Clara men when centre back Conor O Shea, who had been playing very well, picked up a shoulder injury and had to leave the fray.

From there to the interval the Railyard outscored their opponents by 1-4 to 0-0 and held a 1-5 to 1-2 lead with breeze assistance to come. Shane Staunton and Joe Connolly from a free scored two of the first three points of the second half to cut the deficit to two, but that was as good as it got for Clara and Railyard added a flurry of scores to run out easy 3-14 to 1-4 winners. Too many Clara moves broke down with the final pass and by contrast their well drilled opposition showed what can be achieved by practising with the big ball a little more.

One good thing about Sunday’s game was that a number of last years minors made their senior debuts. Ned Langton started and was joined later on by Sean Carrigan, Alex McDonald and Harry Boyle. All acquitted themselves very well and will be joined by another few before year’s end. Clara in general tried very hard and the game will bring them on but they had to give best to a good Railyard team in this one.

Team - Killian Phelan, Tom Ryan, David Langton, Sean O Shea. Dara Glynn, Conor O Shea, Liam Ryan. Jack Langton, Alan Coleman. Shane Staunton 0-1, Joe Connolly 0-2f, Martin O Connell. Ned Langton, Kevin Nolan 0-1, Peter Nolan 1-0. Subs Sean Carrigan, Alex McDonald, Harry Boyle, Brandon Ryan.

KILKENNY FALL TO TIPP

Paul Cody was an unused substitute, Conor Phelan was a selector and John Murphy was one of the trainers with the Kilkenny senior hurling team as they lost to Tipperary 2-24 to 1-21 in front of a bumper 10,458 attendance in Nowlan Park on Sunday. Again this televised game was preceded by a minute’s silence for the late James Nolan.

COURSING

The three day Meeting in Clonmel was a big success with ideal weather conditions and crowds exceeded previous years on the opening day. No local success but some great coursing was enjoyed by all, a bus from Kavanaghs Bar travelled for the final day. Sincere thanks to all who contributed to the Buster Draw and the following winners and runners up were; Derby winner Luke Kelly with Masonbrook Ger, Runner Up Ella Crosby with Ballymac Major. There was no final for Oaks as both dogs were owned by Dowling Family, Kerry, Ballymac Zena and Ballymac Pippin, so Keelan

O’Donoghue and Tom Hogan split the winnings! TA Morris Stake winner Mikey Murphy with Sore Loser, Runner Up, James Gorman with Gigantor. Kitty Butler Stake winner Lilly Lennon with Amirite, Runner Up Ned Cuggy with Granard Hail.

BIRTHDAY BOY

Special birthday wishes go out to local man Tom McGrath of Inch Freshford who celebrated a very special birthday at the weekend. Tom marked the big 60 at a get together with family and friends at the Avalon Inn, Castlecomer.

SQUASH

Congratulations and well done to a young local boy Nathan Walsh, Sart, Freshford who took part in the Leinster junior open held in Sutton recently. Nathan was taken part in the U13 section with over 21 boys in his group. Nathan went in to the competition seeded No.9 and took on the No8 seed in his first game and had a great win beating his opponent 3-0. He was unlucky to be drawn against the NoCo.1 seed in Ireland from County Galway but he put in a great fight against him only losing his first two games but minimum of 11-9 and the third game was a close one also but going to the Galway boy. In his next game on Sunday morning he played brilliantly to win 3-1 and then on Sunday a ernoon he took on the No.6 seed from Galway also and again Nathan played out of his skin with some fantastic squash to win 3-0 with the third game very tight indeed with Nathan coming out on top 16-14. Everyone in Freshford Squash club especially would like to say a massive congrats to Nathan who finished 5th overall in the Leinster Junior open – a great achievement for this young boy.

CAFE

The new Community Cafe at Buncrussia Street which opened just before Christmas is proving to be very popular in the village to date . The Loop Café is serving some beautiful homemade food. The Café which is run on a voluntary basis is open Tuesday to Saturday each week from 9.30am to 4pm, so why not go along for a co ee or a snack and meet your friends for a chat as well as supporting the new local business.

DEATH

Local people were saddened last week to hear of the sudden passing of Ned Tighe of Castle Gardens Ballyragget. Ned who was originally from County Cavan was well known in the area and worked in the locality for some years. Burial took place in St. Finnans Cemetery Ballyragget following mass in St.Patrick’s Church, Ballyragget. Sympathy is extended to his family, relatives and friends

FITNESS

Fitness sessions

Boxing/fitness sessions at Community Hall

Freshford. Have you had a diagnoses of Parkinsons, Alzheimers or other neurological conditions? If so maybe you are keen to get some level of fitness back or work on you balance or upper body strength? If so, these classes are just what you need. Classes take place each Tuesday from 11am to 12 noon, sessions cost just €10 each and are facilitated by a boxing coach. They will also give you the chance to socialise and meet other people. For more information or to sign up please contact Brenda Cooper on 0871369253

COMMUNITY ALERT

Freshford /Threecastles Community Alert Group remind people that the annual text Alert scheme membership is due. It cost just €10 per phone number for this service and to enroll or pay your fee you can contact any of the following committee members:John Bergin, Jacinta Power, Anna Morrissey, Mick Cormack. New members are always very welcome and the group thank all those for their continued support. They would like to remind people that during these dark evenings to be vigilant towards your property and that of your neighbours and keep an eye out for anything suspicious and report same to Kilkenny Garda Station on 056 775500

PLAYGROUND

Work can be seen to be well underway on the local Playground at Kilkenny Road. Great credit is due to the hard working committee who fought for this amenity over past couple of years. It is hoped that the Playground will be ready for this summer.

CABARET

Conahy Vintage Club will hold a Cabaret in aid of Crumlin Children’s Hospital in Conahy Shamrocks GAA Clubhouse on Friday 3rd March . Music will be by The Dooley Bros and there will be a special door prize and ra le on the night. You are asked to please support this very worthy cause. Tickets are available from any member of the Conahy Vintage Club.

GAA

LAST MAN STANDING

With the national hurling league back into action St Lachtain’s are running a Last Man Standing competition with fantastic prize of €350 for the winner and €50 for the seller of the winner. It started on the 4th of February and entries must be in at 12 noon on the day of the first game each weekend entries can be given to any player or committee member.

DRUG AWARENESS

St Lachtains GA club are delighted to host a drugs awareness night on Monday Feb 27th in the Community Hall at 8pm. There will be guest speakers on the night including Conor Harris, former Limerick hurler Ciaran Carey and members of An Garda Siobhan. All welcome.

TREE JOB

The Woodview residents association have through their Chairman expressed satisfaction for a job well done by Treeline. The trees have got a well earned pruning and topping in a most environmentally clean manner. The Association also paid tribute to the Parks Department of Kilkenny County Council and singled out Local Cllr. Mick McCarthy who coordinated the work and ensured the topping was carried out to a very high standard.

SOCCER

Freshford Town Junior side had no game last weekend. In the schoolboys section the U11boys had a good 3- 1 win over Callan Utd.

The U17 boys were beaten 1-0 by Spa Utd at the weekend.

NEWS Mass is held in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and each Sunday morning at 11am.wiith Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 7.30pm.

Notice s

The parish newsletter is available on their website every week and also on the website you are free to pay your dues and make donations or any other contributions and you can find out more about it on the website or feel free to contact in the Parish O ice. Please note community notices for the parish newsletter should be le in or emailed to the Parish O ice by 11am on Thursdays. Parish o ice hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 1pm.

Mass Cards

Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish O ice or from Annette at Tulla Church signed by Monsignor Kennedy. You can contact the Parish o ice on 056 8832843 or by email – freshfordd@ossory.ie. Contact Mongr. Kieron Kennedy on that number or on 087 25235 21

HELP FOR ALL

Are you struggling with anxiety or depression or finding life di icult or feeling isolated at this time GROW is there to help you. Their Mental Health support Groups are free and confidential and open to all no referral or booking is needed. For more information on same you can contact Mary on 087 284342

If you can’t cope and need support text HELLO to 50808.

SAMARITAN - Whatever you’re going through a Samaritan will face it with you – available 24 hours a day 365 days a year –

Freephone 1161Alone is available for older people who need support and you can call them on 0818 222222024 (8am to 8pm ) AMBER

KILKENNY WOMENS REFUGE – is available for confidential support relating to domestic violence - call them on 1850 424244 (24/7) or on 056 7771404 or email into@amberwomensrefuge.ie.

Like that party guest who just won’t leave, Declan outstayed his welcome for more than two decades with Kilkenny Pantomime Society. Holding tenure as lead panto boy and finally being promoted to camp villain, he is delighted to have duped Andrew with a claim of ‘experience’ to land the role of the Dame, the enormous cartoon-Saxon Frau Ploppy Schmidt. Now he finally has a valid excuse for wearing pink kitten-heel boots!

MEET THE CAST: Linda Delaney as Mommy Bear! Having been in every production since the age of four, Linda just couldn’t ‘bear’ to miss out on this year’s production. Linda graduated from her first ‘leading role’ as the non-speaking Baby BooBoo (The Snow Queen 2014), to, this time out, playing the ‘polar’ opposite as the passive-aggressive Mommy Bear. Linda has been very busy of late making numerous bowls of porridge for Daddy Bear and Baby Bear as well as her contractual obligation to make caramel squares for Andrew. Be sure to visit www.gowranpanto.com to book your tickets! The Panto runs til this Sunday the 19th Feb

GOWRAN GIRLS GO IN SEARCH OF ALL-IRELAND GLORY

Very Best Wishes to Julie Lennon and Marie O’Kee e who go in search of All-Ireland glory for Loreto Kilkenny on Saturday in The All-Ireland Senior Colleges Camogie Final in Blanchardstown. Loreto Kilkenny will play St. Pats Maghera of Derry a er having defeated Ursuline Thurles following an epic battle by a solitary point in The Semi-Final (3-13 to 3-12).

Julie scored the winning point in that thrilling Semi-Final, while Marie will hope to feature having been sidelined through injury en route to the final.Throw-in on Saturday is at 1pm.

DANNY DELIVERS SURPRISE GRADE 1 TREBLE

All eyes locally will focus on Red Mills Day in Gowran Park on Saturday A ernoon, but on the recent St. Brigids Bank Holiday Weekend, Danny Mullins had a weekend to remember with a surprise Treble of Grade 1 Triumphs at the Dublin Racing Festival all for his Uncle.

First up on Saturday, The Gowran Native was aboard Gala Marceau as she defeated Stable companion - 1/3 favourite - Lossiemouth to land The Spring Juvenile Hurdle and it got better on Sunday. Deputising for the injured Mark Walsh, Danny was aboard Gentleman de Mee who lowered the colours of 1/4 shot Blue Lord in with an emphatic 7 length victory in The Ladbrokes Dublin Steeplechase.

The Grade 1 hat-trick was complete courtesy of 14/1 shot Il Etait Temps who ran out a 9.5 length winner in The Tattersalls Ireland Novice Hurdle.

GOWRAN PARISH

Hire and Use of Parish Halls. A reminder to clubs or organisations who use Gowran Parochial Hall. The Hall is not available for use for activities on any Sunday until a er Sunday Mass (12.30pm).

There are very few Eucharistic Ministers for Gowran Church. If you would be willing to be part of this service please contact Fr Dalton during the next fortnight as a ‘course for new Eucharistic Ministers is being prepared. Commissioning of Eucharistic Ministers is at Holy Thursday mass.

CLUB LOTTO

Results 9th Feburary. Nos: 7 17 31 32. Jackpot: €7400 Not Won

Draw Prizes. €50: Mark Mullaney c/o online. €25 each Rita Long c/o Rita Long €25 each Brian Hayes c/o Deirdre O’Reilly. €25 each Bridie Kennedy c/o Joe Phelan Hurlers Co Op Brendan Cullen c/o Online. Promotors prize Declan

Gough New weeks draw €7550.

Thank you for your continued support.

CLUB REGISTERATION

Members can now renew their membership directly through ClubZap for the 2023 season and instalment options are available. The club asks that all members renew their membership as soon as possible and in particular before teams return to training or games over the next number of weeks.

MASS IN PALMERSTOWN

Mass will be celebrated in Palmerstown Clubhouse, Thursday 23rd Feb at 7.30 for all our deceased members.

U13’S FOOTBALL

Dicksboro u13 C kicked o their 2023 season playing O’Loughlins and came out with a good win. Our u13 A team had a walkover by Ballycallan. Lots more games to be played and we wish them all the best for the upcoming season.

SCHOOLS CAMOGIE ALL IRELAND

We wish our Boro Girls and Loreto Secondary School the very best as they take on St Pats Maghera in the All Ireland Senior Colleges this Saturday at 1pm at St Peregrine’s Blanchardstown. We are very proud of the 11 boro girls who are on the Loreto Panel. Best of luck to Rose, Aisling, Rachel, Amy, Angela, Caoimhe, Tara, Amy, Isabelle Fahy, Izzy and Isabelle Roberts.

PAULINE DOWLING RIP

Sympathy is extended to the Dowling and Carroll families on the death of Pauline last week.

Pauline died peacefully at home on 8th February 2023, surrounded by her loving family. She was predeceased by her husband James. Beloved mother of Tom, John, Kay, Angela, Edel, Olive, James and David. She will be sadly missed by her brother Sam, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends. Family, friends and neighbours gathered to pay their final respects to one of Bennettsbridge’s oldest parishioners. A guard of honour organised by the local GAA club escorted the co in to the church. Requiem Mass was celebrated in St Bennett’s Church by Canon Pat Duggan. Fr Duggan welcomed all to the celebration of Pauline’s life, a life lived to the full. She reared a large family, all of whom settled in Bennettsbridge. As well as her family her religion was an important part of her life.

Family members took part in the liturgy, Prayers of the Faithful and O ertory Procession. The O ertory Gi s represented Pauline’s many interests. Music throughout the ceremony was provided by Ben and Monica, Thomastown Folk Choir.

Pauline’s granddaughter, Jane, thanked all who had cared for Pauline and shared some special memories of her grandmother. Rest in peace Pauline.

CHURCH NEWS

Mass times this week, Wednesday and Friday mornings 10;30 am.

FIRST COMMUNION PREPARATION MASS

On Sunday last Fr Duggan welcomed First Communion children and their parents to a Preparation mass. First Communion will take place on Saturday, 13th May. Parents were involved in the Liturgy and the children’s special candles were lit on the altar during the mass. The ceremony was enhanced by the beautiful music from Billy, David and Deirdre.

SUPERVISED STUDY

Supervised Study will return to the Bennettsbridge Community Centre on February 25th from 9 until 1pm and will continue each Saturday. Continuation of the service, for secondary school students, will depend on interest levels. Anyone interested should contact Josephine on 087 7871110.

GATHERING GROUP

The Gathering group continues each Wednesday from 11am. Members enjoy catching up on news while having a cuppa and biscuits. Some gentle chair exercises follow and a Table Quiz is planned for this week.

LOTTO

No winner of Jackpot last week. Jackpot now €5.200.00. Consolation Prizes, Rosie c/o Fr Duggan, Carmel Egan, Castlegarden, Damien Grimes, Bennettsbridge, BB Syndicate, Eileen Phelan, Bennettsbridge.

EASTER CAMP

Advance notice of the Bennettsbridge Easter Camp which will take place from the 11th to 14th April this year. A registration night will be held on Thursday 9th March at the GAA Grounds. Forms will be delivered to the Bennettsbridge Mixed school in the coming weeks. The camp runs from 10 to 2pm daily. Cost €50.00.

ST PATRICKS DAY

Date for your diary. The Annual Irish Dancing Display will be held this year on St Patrick’s Day in the Community Centre. This event is a collaboration between Stella Carroll School of Dancing and Bennettsbridge Ladies Club. Dancers will compete for the Kathleen Conway Memorial Trophy. Proceeds will go to the Carlow Kilkenny Homecare Team.

BENNETTSBRIDGE HEALTHY CLUB

Let’s get Bennettsbridge walking. Download my life app. Follow instructions on flyer.We will walk as a group Wednesday nights 7pm to 8pm. Meet at GAA grounds. Alternate between pitch and village streets weather dependent. Let’s get walking and light up Bennettsbridge. Ireland lights up is in conjunction with RTE Operation Transformation. All welcome to join at any time, simply download the app and join in.

GAA MEMBERSHIP 2023

Membership for 2023 is now being collected by registrar Samantha McGarry or any commit-tee member. Membership remains the same as last year. 120 for adult players, 80 for student players and 40 euro for non-playing members. Early payment would be most appreciated as the bills for 2023 start to come in.

INTERCOUNTY HURLING

Hard luck to David Blanchfield and the Kilkenny team who lost out to Tipperary in the sec-ond round of the league.

BUY A BRICK CAMPAIGN

We are in our fourth year of our buy a brick campaign. Thanks to everyone who has supported so far . Anyone new who wishes to contribute please see BBGAADEV@gmail.com. All contributions go towards club development and repayment of the loan on the club house as quickly as possible.

FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Bennettsbridge footballers are in action at junior, minor and under 13 level at the moment. The minors play Conahy away in the championship semi-final this Sunday at 10 am. See the Kilkenny GAA website for details of the upcoming fixtures.

COLLEGE HURLING

Best of luck to Bill Hughes, Timmy Kelly and James Hughes who are part of the St Kieran’s panel who take on St Raphael’s of Galway in the All Ireland quarter final on Satur-day. Best of luck also to Jamie Harkin and his Waterford teammates in the semi- final of the Fitzgibbon cup.

SPLIT THE POT

Well done to Alan Flynn who won 139 euro, Maria Dunne, 30 euro and to Eileen McCarthy, 20 euro. Envelopes to enter are available around the village. If you want to play on-line with club force please see the clubs Facebook page for details. Thanks again for the continued support.

GBC GAA CHARITY WALK

A massive thanks to everyone who took part in the GBC GAA Charity Walk in aid of The Samaritans which was held in Tom Ryall Park recently. A total amount of €800 was raised for our Charity Partners. Thanks to all who helped in any way with the organisation of this enjoyable event, the event stewards, parking attendants, those who looked a er the refreshments, took photos, bucket collectors and those who assisted with the clean-up. All proceeds will be presented to the Kilkenny Branch of the Samaritans.

50 YEARS OF KILMANAGH CHURCH

We have chosen Thursday, June 22nd as the day we will celebrate the Church’s Golden Jubilee. Bishop Niall Coll will join us for this celebration.

SPECIAL COLLECTION FOR TURKEY/SYRIA

As we watch the tragedy unfold in Turkey and Syria, with over 35,000 people losing their lives and hundreds of thousands more injured and homeless, we wonder how we can help. Next weekend, 18th and 19th, at our Masses, we will hold a special collection to provide much needed aid to the stricken. Your support would be greatly appreciated. Money donated will be sent to Trócaire who are on the ground helping those in the most dire need.

ALTAR SERVERS

We are contemplating the return of altar servers to our Masses, most likely in September, but could be earlier. There are a number of questions that need answering however: Is there an interest among young people to serve? We don’t have very many attending Mass. Are parents willing to commit to garda vetting and a full days training in order to supervise and organise a rota? If you think your child might be interested, and you’re willing to help, then get in touch.

RESILIENCE CARE

Support Workers required for 2 x 4 bed Residential Houses in Tullaroan. Full time, part time and relief contracts available. You can send your CV to careers@resilience.ie. Visit our website at www.resilience.ie to view their work.

LOCAL LOTTO

Results for 30/01/2023. Numbers drawn were 8; 16; 17; 29. No jackpot winner. Lucky Dip winners were Christina Murphy, David and Linda and Casey Cleere. Seller’s prizes went to John Robinson and Patricia O’Halloran.

Results for 06/02/23. Numbers drawn were 1; 9; 14; 28. No jackpot winner. Lucky Dip winners were Thomas Fitzpatrick, Joshua Malone and John McGrath. Seller’s prizes went to Michele Comerford and Pat Robinson. Next week’s jackpot will be € 10,600. Draw takes place each Monday at 9pm.

SOCCER NEWS

Junior Division 3 Emerald Tiles League: River Rangers B – 0

Evergreen 46 – 3

A good game today from Clonard Park as Evergreen 46 were the visitors. Things started even enough with Rangers defence going really well. It took Evergreen 15 minutes to break the deadlock with a decent strike to make it 1-0. Ten minutes later and Evergreen got their second and just before hal ime they made it 3. 3-0 down at hal ime Rangers could have easy thrown in the towel but that was not the case. Some great defending was key here. Midfield organised themselves and really put in a good e ort to leave the score at full-time 3-0 with neither team able to score in the second half.

Team: Charlie Cleere, Ben Young, Peter Murphy, Jake O’Brien, Conor Hogan, Martin Doheny, Dean O’Brien, Jack Fitzpatrick, Philly Doheny, Ben Hayes, Martin Murphy, James Casey, Joey Brennan, Pat Purcell, Kieran Dowling.

Junior Division 2 League : River Rangers A – 2 Freshford Town - 3 Rangers started well with a goal from Billy O’Neill a er 20 min. A good game was unfolding when a Freshford attack ended in a penalty when goalkeeper Tommy Minogue over-stretched and just caught the Freshford striker. Freshford converted the penalty to make it 1-1. Another attack by Freshford from a throw brought a great save from Tommy but the rebound went to Freshford and a good finish meant Rangers were down 2-1 at half time. In the second half Rangers were pushing to get the equalizer and got their reward when a Freshford goalie mistake placed the ball for Ryan Corcoran to make it 2-2. A close game now and with 15 mins le a Freshford cross came through the defence for a handy tap in.

Unfortunately that was the final result.

Team: Tommy Minogue, Jack Doyle, Charlie Cleere, Willie Brennan, James Gleeson, Shane Murphy, Stephen Keoghan, Jack Walton, Billy O’Neill, Ryan Corcoran, Dylan Lanigan, Brian Kearney, Martin Murphy, Peter Murphy.

Under 14 League Division 2 : Paulstown 06 FC - 2 River Rangers - 3 River Rangers won 3-2 away to Paulstown, a hard earned win for the lads. 2-2 at hal ime with both goals from new player Ethan Russell, he added a third midway through the second half to claim his hat trick .The boys fought hard and held out for the win.

Team: Donncha Kenny, Dara Barut, Martin Wall, Joshua Malone, David Holland, David Walton, Dean Smith, Rory Buckley, Nathan Power Young, Sean O’Dea, Ethan Russell, Luke Hayes, Tom Brennan, Charlie Teehan, Conor Egan, Billy Ronan.

Under 19 League Division 1A : River Rangers - 2 Bridge United - 3 River Rangers started with just 11 players today as players were otherwise committed. Early on we had great chances and were unlucky not to take the lead. Half way through the first half some good play by Eanna Cassidy playing Ryan Corcoran through who finished well to give Rangers the lead. That lead did not last long as soon a er Bridge made it 1-1. An injury to a player put Rangers down to 10 men. Billy O’Neill in goal was excellent and was playing like a sweeper. Soon we went 2-1 down. Second half was a tight a air but a er Ryan Corcoran’s corner it was Charlie Cleere with an excellent header to make it 2-2. Again Rangers conceded a er scoring themselves, following a misjudgement from the goalie allowing Bridge to take the lead again 3-2. Soon a er Rangers were down to 9 players as another player had to go. With no subs we were always going to be under pressure. These guys were brilliant today and a goal disallowed for o side would have given them their reward with 9 players on the field for the last 20-25 minutes, it would have been some result. As managers over this team we could not have asked any more from these guys and would acknowledge the huge e ort they put in today.

Team: Billy O’Neill, Aiden Cahill, Dean O’Brien, Pat Purcell, Charlie Cleere, Dylan Teehan, James Casey, Ben Young, Jake O’Brien, Ryan Corcoran, Eanna Cassidy.

Under 13 : River Rangers - 1 Lions Ath - 2 Home game against Lions. Game started and the boys were straight into it. Great run a er 10 mins saw Tommy Butler put through on goal, who was brought down in the box, and from the resulting penalty, Ranger’s goalkeeper David Walton made no mistake from the spot to put us 1 up. Rangers were very unlucky not to score a second when Tommy Butler struck the upright which was certainly a contender for goal of the season had it gone in. Ten mins before hal ime Rangers conceded a corner and Lions scored the equaliser with a header. Half time 1-1. Little between the two teams, Rangers were unlucky to lose Billy Ronan to an injury. With 10 mins to play, a certain o side was not given and Lions took an undeserved lead. As much as Rangers pressed for an equaliser it wasn’t to be. Game finished 2-1 to Lions. Full credit to the Rangers boys today, who put in a huge performance. Best on the day were Charlie Teehan, Charlie McCluskey, John Hoyne and Tommy Butler.

Team: David Walton, Conor Egan, Charlie Teehan, John Hoyne, Joe Bourke, James O’Connor, Leo Clarke, Charlie McCluskey, Martin Wall, Billy Ronan, Tommy Butler, Joey Young.

Junior Division 2 League : Thomastown United B - 1 River Rangers A - 1

Junior Division 3 Emerald Tiles League : River Rangers B - 0

Newpark - 4

Under 15 St Canice’s Credit Union Division 1A Stoneyford United4 River Rangers - 0

Under 13 League Division 1 : Spa United Ath - 3 River Rangers - 0

SOCCER FIXTURES

Saturday 18 February

Under 14 League Division 2 : River Rangers v Evergreen Dynamo’s in Clonard Park at 11:00

Under 19 League Division 1A Stoneyford United v River Rangers in Knocktopher

Sunday 19 February

Junior Division 2 League : Stoneyford United v River Rangers A in Stoneyford at 11:00

Junior Division 3 Emerald Tiles League : Newpark v River Rangers B in Newpark at 11:00

CLOGHOGE MONTESSORI

Cloghoge Montessori in Ballycallan Hall is now enrolling for September 2023. Limited ECCE places available. Beautiful indoor and outdoor environment. Open Mon to Fri 9am to 12pm. Contact: Carmel Everard 086-3768305.

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.

CHURCH NEWS.....

CATHEDRAL DRAW

Money for the February Cathedral Draw will be collected next weekend Feb 18/19th.

CROSSPATRICK CEMETERY

A collection for the caretaker is now due. Envelopes for same are available in the church.

MRS DELIA BRIDGET O’DONOVAN(nee Gannon) RIP

The death has taken place of Mrs Delia O’Donovan, Ballyellis House, Crosspatrick, peacefully and with great dignity. Deeply regretted by her husband Paddy and sons J.J., Finbar, David and

Michael Paul, sisters Sr. Cait, Lena, Mary, Gretta and Madeleine, daughters in law, grandchildren and extended family. Requiem Mass was celebrated in St. Mary’s Church, Rossmore, Clonakilty with burial a erwards in the adjoining cemetery.

JOHNSTOWN HERITAGE GROUP

Johnstown heritage groupwill hold a talk in St. Kieran’s Hall on Saturday evening next Feburary 18th at 8.30pm entitled Battalion (Johnstown) and Kilkenny Brigade , the Civil War and other related stories. The talk will be given by Comdt. Larry Scallon (Rtd) formally James Stephen’s Barracks.

GALMOY COMMUNITY HALL

The AGM of the Galmoy Community Hall will take place on Sunday Feburary 19th at 8pm. Election/re-election of o icers will take place and anyone willing to volunteer please give your name to Brendan Delaney.

ENROLMENTS FOR SCHOOLS

Enrolment for St. Kieran’s National school, contact 0568831611 or email johnstownns@gmail.com. For St. Michael’s National School, Crosspatrick contact 0568831753 or email o ice@crosspatrickns. com.

SPA UNITED AFC

Weekend results Junior League Division 3. Evergreen 2 Spa 1, U17 boys league division 1A Freshford Town 0 Spa 1, U13 boys league division 1 Spa 3 River Rangers 0, Callan Utd 1 Spa 0, U13 boys league division 2 Bridge Utd 3 Spa 0, U12 boys league division 1 Bridge Utd 0 Spa 0, U12 boys league division 2A Callan Utd 0 Spa 5, U11 Doran Cup Lions 2 Spa United Black 1, U11 Doran Shield Spa United Green 0 Stoneyford 1, U12 girls league division 2 Spa 1 Freebooters 3.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO

Lotto winning numbers 7,11,24,27. Two match threes Sarah Brophy Ryan and Jim Quinlan. Next week’s jackpot €19,300.

CHURCH NOTES

MASS TIMES

From the start of this month, evening Mass will begin in Glengoole at 6.00pm & Mass in Gortnahoe on Sunday morning at 10.30am. Please note the change of time for Glengoole.

PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES

The Cashel and Emly Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place from the 17th - 22nd June 2023, anyone interested in the Parish please contact the Parish council for further information.

TELECOMMUNICATION MAST MEETING

An Bord Pleanala have now granted permission for a 60 Telecommunications mast in Gortnahoe village. A public meeting will take place this Friday 17th February at 7.30pm in the community hall in Gortnahoe to discuss our options. It is important that we have a large attendance at the meeting.

TUESDAY BRIDGE

Bridge is played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information please contact this number 089 4349106

GORTNAHUE BINGO

Bingo continues each Saturday night in Gortnahoe Hall. The hall committee are delighted that the return to the hall is proving successful with a full attendance last Saturday night, the prize money of over €2,660 is a huge attraction. Bingo continues this Saturday at 7.00pm with doors opening from 6.00pm and will continue each Saturday night at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on o er including a special €500 game. Parish support would be appreciated.

SPLIT THE POT

Congratulations to Mary Healy from Longford Pass, a member of the Bridge Club who won €152 in last Sunday’s draw. Envelopes are available at the usual outlets. Split the Pot will be in support of the purchase of card tables for the Bridge club in the Hall. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated

JOAN EGAN RIP

The death took place of Joan Egan (nee Cahill), Kilvemnon, Mullinahone and formerly Gortnahoe, Thurles, Co. Tipperary. Predeceased by her parents William and Hannah, brother Noel, sister Alice, nephew Damien and niece Caroline. Joan is deeply regretted by her adoring daughter Lisa, son-in-law Darragh, grandchildren Alanah, Ava and Will, brothers Tom, Seamie and Dick, sisters Catherine and Brid, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, her companion Ned, Lisa’s father William, relatives and a wide circle of friends. Joan reposed at Doyle’s funeral home, Urlingford, last Saturday evening followed by removal to The Church of the Sacred Heart, Gortnahoe. Requiem Mass took place last Sunday morning followed by burial in the Mill Cemetery, Urlingford. May she rest in peace.

JOHN EWAN O’SHEA RIP

The death took place of John Ewan O’Shea, Budapest, late of Ballinastick, Glengoole. Deepest sympathy to his wife and children, his mother Rosemary and the extended O’Shea family. Mass will be celebrated for John and Anniversary Mass for his father John, on Wednesday 1st March at 7.30pm in Glengoole Church. May he rest in peace.

VINTAGE CLUB CABARET

Conahy Vintage Club will hold a cabaret in aid of Our Lady’s Childrens Hospital Crumlin, in Conahy Shamrocks GAA Clubhouse, on Friday March 3rd. Music will be provided by the Dooley Brothers. There will also be door prizes and a ra le on the night. Please support this very worthy cause, with tickets available from any Vintage Club member and also in the GAA Clubhouse.

CAMOGIE

Best wishes to Emma Mulhall, Amy Lawless and Ava McCabe who were part of the Loreto Convent panel who will play in the AllIreland Post-Primary Schools camogie final against St. Patrick’s, Maghera (Derry). The game will be played in St. Peregrine’s GAA Grounds, Dublin, on this Saturday a ernoon at 1.00 p.m.

FOOTBALL

The intermediate footballers travelled to Glenmore for their latest game in the JJ Kavanagh & Sons Intermediate Football League, and produced a good performance in winning by 1-8 to 0-7. The teams were level at half time, but the key score came late on when Eoin Cahill found the net for Conahy. The locals will next take on Carrickshock in Jenkinstown this coming weekend.

TEAM: Karl Downey, Padraig Gunner, Eoin Carroll, Donal Cass, Liam Cass, Stephen MacNamee, Darragh Hennessy, Eoin Cahill, Edmond Delaney, Darren Cuddihy, Dara Dooley, Bill Murphy, Padraic Delaney, Adam Dempsey, Tom Rice. Subs: Sean Brennan, Paul Buggy, Mark Gunner, Damien Cuddihy.

CLUB LOTTO

The numbers drawn in the Conahy Shamrocks GAA Club Lotto were 1, 27 and 42. There was no jackpot winner so the consolation prize winners were Siobhan Hennessy, Jim and Caitriona Tierney, Jack Fitzpatrick, Paudie Brennan and Helen and Mick Cahill. The promoters’ prize winners were Teresa Dollard, Nora Delaney and Kay Phelan. This week’s jackpot now increases to €1,900.

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL

The members of the Conahy Conference of St Vincent de Paul wish to thanks all in the locality who contributed to their recent Christmas Church Outdoor Collection at all parish masses. They also wish to remind all in the local community that if anybody finds themselves in di iculty, please do not hesitate to contact them on (086) 0519893 in strictest confidence.

MASS TIMES

Aghaviller Parish: Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m. Vigil - Saturday 18th. at 8.00p.m.; Sunday 19th. at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford: Wednesday 15th. at 7.00p.m. Vigil - Saturday 18th. at 6.30p.m.;

PRAY FOR

Anniversary Masses next weekend: Alice Murphy, Lismatigue; Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday 18th. at 8.00p.m. Paddy Joe

Rohan, Carraigetna: Mass in Hugginstown Church on Sunday 19th. at 10.00a.m.

Months Mind Mass: Maureen Connolly, Stonecarthy: Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 18th. at 6.30p.m.

ROTA

Rota for next week-end: 18th. and 19th. February 2023 . (Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time)

Readers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Sheila Raggett. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. John Barron; Sunday 10.00a.m. Mary Carroll.

Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Natalia

Smolen. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Teresa Broderick; Sunday 10.00a.m. Lillian Carr.

FIRST PENANCE AND FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PREPARATION

All children and families are invited to attend the weekend Masses during Lent as part of this preparation. Parents will be involved in the Readings and the Communion Reflection while the children will be involved in the Prayers of the Faithful and the O ertory Gi s. Mass in Stoneyford on Saturdays at 6.30p.m. and in Hugginstown on Sundays at 10.00a.m.

NEWMARKET SCHOOL

The School is now taking enrolments for September 2023 and for A er-School Care. Please contact 089 257 2031 or mbrennan@ newmarketns.ie

LOTTO

Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 6th.

February 2023 Numbers: 12; 17; 16; 20. No Winner First 3

Numbers Drawn: One Jackpot Winner: €6,000.00. Winner: Jimmy Holden, Station Road, Ballyhale. €200.00. Seller of Jackpot Ticket: Trish Power, Hugginstown. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers): James Irish, Teresa Fitzgerald, Jimmy Sheehan; MONROE SCHOOL

Monore School is now taking Enrolments for September 2023. Please phone 056 776 8931 or email school on snmoinruadh@ gmail.com for an Enrolment Form.

SAFEGUARDING CONTACTS

Diocesan Designated Liaison Person: Ms. Kathleen Sherry Tel: 087 100 0232.

Aghaviller Parish Representatives are: Teresa Broderick and Carmel O’Toole

GROUNDS PERSON (CE SCHEME)

The Community Employment Scheme is looking to recruit a Groundperson for the area around Hugginstown and Newmarket.

Duties to include: General Up-Keep and Cleaning of Community Areas, Walkways, Graveyards and Flower Beds, Cutting Grass, Hedge Cutting and Litter Removal.

If you are interested, Please contact the Supervisor, Paul Kealy, Tel. 087 958 2709. at St. Canices Community Employment Training CLG. Eligibility to participate on CE Scheme is generally linked to those who are 21 years or over and in receipt of a qualifying Social Welfare Payment for over one year or more.

ONLINE LENTEN RETREAT

The Priory Institute is delighted to o er a free of charge Online

Retreat ‘Reflecting on the Sunday Gospels of Lent as Stepping Stones on our Journey to Easter. Visit the websiteprioryinstitute. com or click on this link https://bit.ly/3DWrTkx to register/find out more.

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

A Lecture on “County Kilkenny and Some Links to 100 Years of the Revenue Commissioners”. The Speaker will be Mr Brian White. Venue: Mullinavat Parish Hall (opposite Church) on Thursday, February 23rd. at 8.00p.m.

OSSORY PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES

Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes in association with Joe Walsh Tours will take place from May 23rd to 28th. This is the first return of Ossory to Lourdes since Covid. Accommodation is in three hotels Agena, Padoue and Solitude. With capacity limited it is strongly advised to book early. For information and booking forms contact Joe Walsh on 012410800 or email info@joewalshtours.ie.

Local Dialect

A recent chat amongst a couple of local men highlighted some of the local dialect exclusive to Callan and Kilkenny and how unique it is to the area and county. It got this writer thinking about the di erent old sayings that seem to have faded away but for those of the mid 1960’s and 1970’s eras, old sayings were common. A local garage man back in the nearly 50 years ago was a funny man and when he was having di iculty with some car he was working on at his garage, he would fire o a saying, rather than an expletive. One of his favourites and exclusive to him was “Where are we now, said Dave Grant”, meaning what to do next. Dave Grant was a mechanic at Limerick Motor Works who had worked as a mechanic when the same said garage man was Foreman there in the late 1950’s and early 1960’s. Dave would say “where are we now” when he was in bother working on a car, and the Callan garage man just used the saying rather than blowing his top. To many it may read as being corny, but if you knew the local garage man, his sayings were so funny. It was also a warning that a spanner or hammer could be fired across the floor, in frustration. Another saying from him when in even bigger bother “we’re in the Fukalties now”. Make your own interpretation of that one but funny and lovely memories. Probably the most well-known saying exclusive to Callan is “Hu Bo” meaning “Howya Boy” or “Well boy” which is a well-known Waterford saying. According to locals the saying originated from Collins Park going back many years. It’s a saying that has faded away, but still used by some local characters in and around Collins Park to this day. Another one o en used was “Abroad” like Abroad in the yard, meaning they were or it was out in the yard. The Callan dialect is unique and has a mix of Kilkenny City flatness and dare I say some South West Tipperary. “How are tricks” is not exclusive to Callan but much used and would come with answer “On the Ball” or “flying it” A saying that originated from coalminers of Ballingarry and also used by Castlecomer miners was a person “was a bit of a Hammer” which was used to describe certain characteristics of a person. It is said the saying may have been created a er Sir Hammer Greenwood who burned Cork City during the War of Independence. Another saying commonly used is “Ah Wouldja Gway Wi Yerself” which translates as telling tall stories or lying. The Irish it is said have the best command of the English language and the way we portray the language its hard to argue against. We have our own way of speaking and also creating mystery in the way talk. A Waterford friend was telling related his experience when walking recently in Waterford city. He heard two ladies saying, while walking in opposite directions to each other “You wouldn’t know what it was going to do would ya”? “You wouldn’t girl”. Now most Irish people would understand they were talking about the weather, but if it was an American or a British person or any others from the English speaking world, they wouldn’t have a clue what they were saying. Perhaps the mystery originates from the times when we were an occupied country and didn’t want the English to know what we were talking about and even today we continue to confuse others with our great sayings. There are so many and maybe some other time this columnist will dig out more.

FIRST RESPONDERS

Callan First Responders held a fundraiser on Saturday 11th February 2023. Congratulations to Kay and Kevin Ga ney along with Paul Croke who won fantastic Valentines Hampers. Thank you to everyone who supported us. The fundraiser accumulated at total of €556 and all proceeds will be going towards a public access AED/defibrillator available 24/7 on Green Street. This will be placed outside Super Valu supermarket. They also held their first community CPR Course last month with a full group. In due course the CPR will advertise their next course on their Facebook page and local press. They can o er certified courses and non-certified awareness sessions. E ective CPR combined with an AED/ Defibrillator can double if not triple the chance of survival of a witnessed cardiac arrest. 74% of cardiac arrests happen in the home (ONCAR Annual report 2021), so please invest the time to learn this life saving skill. You never know when you might need it. Email to callanfirstresponders@gmail.com for more information.

GREEN STREET PHOTO

A wonderful photo of Green Street in the 1960’s was recently posted on the Callan Pictorial Facebook page by John Lannon from Kilbride. The photo set o some discussion about how the street looked back then. The most notable part was the lack of cars parked or driving down Green Street. In fact, from the Photo the amount of vehicles parked on either side was eight and just a tractor driving up the street. The car nearest in the photo was a Volkswagen Beetle belonging to Jack Gardiner who used to own the Steppes Bar. Jack loved his Beetles and drove one up to a short time before his passing. In the photo you can also see the big Caltex sign and petrol pumps on the path outside Egan’s Cycle shop which was later bought by Christy and Helen Vaughan who sadly both have now passed to their eternal rest. One thing missing from the photo is the telephone box which was outside Rose Kerwicks shop beside Egans. Apparently the phone box was only installed in the late 1960’s. If that phone box could have talked it would certainly have told some great romantic stories or how you could make phone calls without having to put money into the ‘A’ slot and wait for the call to be answered and pushing the ‘B’ button for the money to drop. Those of us could make the ‘free’ calls was by inputting the number we were calling like morse code. People over 40 will understand what the old phones were like. That phone box was a source of fun for some of us and one night comes to mind around Halloween in 1975. Crow Bangers could still be purchased at the old Co-Op store on Green Street, they were later banned because they contained explosive powder and it was during the height of the Troubles. Back to the phone box and inside chatting to a few girls were two friends who will remain nameless and my late brother Jim. So for the craic, those of us out on the street placed a few bangers in the vent slots in the floor of the phone box and o the went, the phone box filled with smoke and out staggered the three lads dazed and holding their ears. Of course at the time we thought it was funny, but thankfully no one was injured and the two surviving of the trio have perfect hearing to this day. That was the 1970’s and we had great craic on Green Street, it was our playground and many a Sunday evening we played soccer on the path outside the old burned out cinema where Super Valu is today. Vivid memories and as its said, a picture paints a thousand words.

Macra

Callan Macra Impromptu debating team took part in the regional round of the competition at the weekend. The motion on the night was “Ireland should increase the size of its defence forces”. Callan were proposing with Moynalty from Meath opposing. Each team had 30 mins to construct their argument. The Callan team of Deirdre Purcell, Lisa Delaney and Jimmy Lynch were victorious on the night, with Jimmy taking home best speaker. The tem now progresses to the national semi-final on the 4th March. Thanks to those who organised and supported on the night and to Moynalty for a great debate.

Race Night

A er three years due to the pandemic the John Lockes came back with a bang with their huge race night fundraiser over the new Saint Brigid’s Bank Holiday weekend. The Steppes bar was literally packed to the ra ers on the Saturday night for the big event. But the night is always the opportunity to showcase the e orts of the work put into making the event a success. Since before Christmas a dedicated committee put a huge amount of work into making what turned out to be the clubs biggest ever and most successful race night. So successful the event was that each race was sold a minimum of six times over. But the icing on the race night cake was the amount of sponsors who supported the event. The race night book that was printed for the night was likened onto the Kilkenny GAA year book such was its size. Barrie Henriques was the main MC for the night along with his junior MC Bosco Bryan. When it came to the auction race Barrie roamed the full bar coaxing and a little friendly harassing of people into bidding and buying horses. The organisers changed the format this year in such a way punters didn’t get a preview of the race coming up, so it was pot luck, which certainly made it interesting as well as plenty of fun. In past race nights the Tote handlers were some what mean with their odds for the winners, but a new group of people were in charge on the night and the odds were very generous. Well done to all who organised the night and when the final count comes in the amount raised will certainly break all records of similar fundraisers. We all love a night out and being entertained as well as supporting the John Lockes in raising money. Its far better than buying tickets and getting no fun or return.

Heritage Society

Callan Heritage society hosted a memorable talk at Coolagh Hall last Friday night. Quite a large gathering turned up to listen to Mary Alice Wildasin speak about her Coolagh ancestors who emigrated many years ago in the early 1800’s to Canada. Mary Alice Wildasin was accompanied by her Mam, Danielle Wildasin and John Mulqueen and met with many Coolagh, Callan and Mullinahone natives to hear her trace the Family roots from Summerslane, Coolagh to Canada and on to Maine where they currently live. It was a most interesting talk, where some locals supplying additional information to add to the story so far. The original name was Doran of Summerslane, where 22 Families of the same name resided once upon a time. The Doran name is well known today in the Windgap area and best known is Councillor Matt Doran. Mary Alice will meet some of her ancestors neighbours in the coming weeks to study the extra pieces supplied Friday night which will hopefully complete the jigsaw for Alice and her family. The night was complete with a warm cuppa and home cooking by the ladies committee of the Coolagh Pattern where Alice, her mother Danielle and John chatted late into the night.