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Friday 17 September 2021

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Travel Special Look Sharp Giveaway Discover Bali Win shopping & Style & fitness Island of the Gods gym vouchers special feature  See page 19

 See pages 30, 34 & 35

 See pages 29 – 39

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

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EVERY FRIDAY

The Kilkenny

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St Luke’s baby blame BABY Laurence Somers from Kilkenny, died due to “medical misadventure” by St Luke’s General Hospital’s obstetric and gynaecological services, a coroner ruled this week. Baby Laurence died at the Coombe Hospital in Dublin on January 28, 2018, after being transferred from St Luke’s following complications suffered during his delivery by an emer-

gency Caesarean section. Coroner for the Dublin District Coroner Court Dr Crona Gallagher returned a verdict of medical misadventure in the case. She said this was not a comment on the standard of care or liability. Senior Consultant, Dr Trevor Hayes has admitted there were failures by St Luke’s in the care of the baby boy who died five

days after suffering an “acute event” at his birth as well as the treatment of his mother who was 11 days overdue. Dr Hayes offered a sincere apology on behalf of the hospital to the boy’s mother, Gráinne Somers and her family. Ms Somers, a mother of two other children who lives in Kilkenny, gave evidence on Monday when she criticised

the lack of information provided by medical staff at St Luke’s at the time about how seriously ill their son was or that he had to be resuscitated at birth. Dr Hayes said that now there is an overall consultant who runs the obstetric assessment unit. Ms Somers was not in his care at any time, when he was clinical leader there. He is now the Clinical Director for the

services. The inquest also heard that no ultrasound was performed when she was 10 days postterm, despite it being policy. A pathologist told the inquest that baby Laurence had suffered an episode of foetal distress and was found to have a shortage of oxygen in the blood. After the verdict, the Somers family said they had fought

Business awards up for grabs:

Young boffin alert: Deadline for the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2022 project entries is Monday, September 27, at 5pm. Project entry fees have been waived and qualifying projects will showcase at the virtual exhibition from January 12 to 14, 2022. Students can submit a onepage proposal in any one of four categories: technology, social and behavioural sciences, biological and ecological sciences, and chemical, physical and mathematical sciences. Photo: Fennell Photography

Nominations are open until September 29 for the return of Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce’s sought-after Business Gala Awards Night. The event will take place at Lyrath Estate Hotel this November. Full report, Page 6

Rooms for rent needed – WIT:

Huge demand for student accommodation in Waterford has prompted WIT to urge south Kilkenny residents with spare rooms to consider renting out to students via its accommodation e-platform. See Page 10

Calls for four-day working week LABOUR leader Alan Kelly believes that the introduction of a four-day working week in Ireland is ‘something we will have to strongly look at.’ Speaking after his party’s twoday think-in in Kildare, Kelly was insistent that Ireland can not return to the exact same working culture that existed before the pandemic, because Covid has “changed everything.” Speaking with Newstalk, Kelly said: “I think we are going to have to change our attitudes towards work. “I think Covid has changed everything – absolutely everyEVERY FRIDAY

thing. I know it has changed my priorities and how I look at things. My work-life balance and the time I spend with my children – I simply can’t go back to the way it was before. I have a nine-year-old and an 11-yearold and I am just going to have to get the balance right into the future, so everything is up for discussion in a positive way. “Many people dismiss the idea of a four-day week but my colleague Kevin Donoghue has proposed in Dublin City Council that it be looked at. I think this is something we will have to strongly look at.”

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endlessly for answers and the inquest had brought closure. Ms Somers said they now know the guidelines were not followed at St Luke’s. It was important for healthcare providers to listen to pregnant women and their concerns. She said she hoped the recommendations made by the coroner would be implemented at St Luke’s.

Man left with facial injuries A MAN was left with injuries to his face following an alleged assault in South Kilkenny on a recent night. Gardaí are investigating the incident, which occurred in Belline Close, Piltown. It’s understood the injured person was attacked from behind and had his iPhone 8 taken. The suspect, described as having black hair, was wearing a black jacket and blue jeans. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Mooncoin Garda Station.

Cash plea for food & drink sector FOOD Drink Ireland (FDI) is calling for “substantial Brexit funding” for the food and drink sector from Budget 2022. In its pre-budget submission the FDI Director, Paul Kelly, said that the industry is “deeply resilient,” but now faces “major disruption to its markets from Brexit, while still contending with the impact of a global pandemic.” “The EU/UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement has introduced significant additional costs for Irish food and drink companies at each step of production and distribution. “In addition to Brexit related

transport and logistics cost hikes, Irish food and drink businesses are also experiencing inflationary pressures across most cost headings due to a combination of macro external factors which include global and domestic supply chain constraints and raw material inputs as well as Brexit and Covid-19. “FDI’s Budget 2022 recommendations are framed to ensure that Ireland’s most important indigenous manufacturing sector can control its cost base whilst also innovating and improving both productivity and sustainability.”

‘Green’ car share more than double:

Share of new electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles of all new registrations in the first eight months of the year has more than doubled when compared with the same period of 2020. See Page 22

INSIDE

Paul Hopkins............................ P8 Marianne Heron ....................P12 Covid Update..........................P14 John Ellis ................................P16 Health & Science ...................P18 Travel & Leisure ....................P19 Picture Special ................P24 - 27 Food & Drink..........................P42 TV & Streaming ....................P43 Sport..................................P49 - 59

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GETTING IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

News Sorcha Kavanagh of Conscious Cup with Kathy Purcell from the Castlecomer Discovery Park, a participant of the Conscious Cup Campaign.

Choose to reuse for your next caffeine fix KILKENNY coffee-drinkers are being urged to ‘choose reuse’ during October by County Council officers. “We are calling on everyone in our community to “Choose to reuse” for National Reuse month,” says Bernadette Moloney, Environmen-

tal Awareness Officer with Kilkenny County Council. As society’s desire for convenience and “on the go” products continue to grow, single-use take-away coffee cups are high in demand. In Ireland alone, 22,000 coffee cups are disposed of every

hour - 528,000 every day equating to 200 million a year. The national Conscious Cup Campaign #WeChooseReuse is a non-profit organisation started in 2016 aiming to reduce and eventually eliminate single use

cups in Ireland. Sorcha Kavanagh, the campaigns co-ordinator will be hosting an information webinar in association with Kilkenny and Carlow County Councils on September 30. She says: “Many cafes temporarily paused accepting

reusable cups when Covid started. However, a system we call Contactless Coffee is being used by cafes all across the country whereby a customer brings their own cup, holds onto their lid and the barista provides a contactless pour; safe for cus-

tomer, barista and planet. “Coffee shops are currently experiencing difficulties in sourcing single-use cups right now due to high levels of demand, encouraging reusable cups provides a great opportunity for businesses to save on costs and reduces that pressure of trying to source single use packaging.” Bernadette says, “We are not suggesting that anyone goes without their regular cuppa, but we are appealing to consumers to consider using the ceramic cup in their favourite cafe or bring along a re-useable cup for their take away. Once the reusable cup has been used more than 15 times, it is more sustainable than a disposable cup. The uptake of the campaign has been slow in Kilkenny and we hope more businesses follow the footsteps of the Castlecomer Discovery Park who signed up to the campaign this summer.” Kilkenny and Carlow County Councils are hosting the free online webinar for the Conscious Cup Campaign on Thursday, September 30 at 7pm. The webinar is open to any individual, group or business and aims to increase awareness on how you can contribute to an easy climate action in your community. Registration link can be received by emailing bernadette. moloney@kilkennycoco.ie. Covid Update: Page 14.

Supporting your fitness regime CLAIR WHITTY

IT’S fantastic to be getting back into your fitness regime but you may have some issues with recovery after training, muscle cramps, or injury? Let’s start with muscle cramps, magnesium is my first choice to try. You can take it, or use BetterYou magnesium spray which you massage into the skin before or after training. Or, add BetterYou magnesium flakes to your bath after training. Whatever you choose, magnesium can help to relax muscles to relieve the pain and soreness. For recovery after intense or repetitive training try Lifeplan Montmorency Cherry Juice capsules. It has compounds with natural anti-inflammatory properties. It may help with faster recovery and reduces sore muscles after hard exercise, and may enable more frequent training sessions leading to improvements in performance. Essential fatty acids found in Omega oils support the heart, brain, and vision. Without these fatty

acids cells can’t function, renew, or maintain themselves properly. Omega-3s also play an important role in reducing inflammation throughout the body — in the blood vessels, the joints, and elsewhere. By reducing inflammation, you can shorten your recovery time by reducing soreness and joint stiffness after a workout. To aid muscle repair and growth and speed consider Glutamine. This is an amino acid which may support recovery time, your digestive system, and supports your immune system too. It’s a popular choice for muscle repair with these all-round benefits. Iron is

lost through exercise, and is an important nutrient used by the body’s muscles to help produce energy and for oxygen transport around the body and muscles. Maintaining iron levels can support your performance especially runners, cyclists, and rowers. A boost of Floradix Liquid Iron might be a good option for you to help support energy levels. Electrolytes are important, you can lose a lot if your exercise promotes sweating. Supplements like Viridian Electrolyte mix are a great choice, you simply add some drops to water and sip to replenish electrolytes. Coconut water can also help. Have a tube of A.Vogel Atrogel on hand, it can be used for sporting injuries such as joint sprains and strains. As well as for general relief of muscular aches, joint pains and stiffness. Make the most of your training, let us know if there is anything we can help you with. If you have any questions call in to have a chat with us. Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre. Email: info@ naturalhealthstore.ie Phone: 056 7764538 Products available at www.naturalhealth store.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

News

Budding female entrepreneurs surpass men by 50% NEW figures released by the Local Enterprise Offices (LEO) have shown that the amount of women asking for entrepreneurship and business supports continues to rise. In 2020, over 47,000 women took part in training and upskilling with their LEO. That was almost double 2019’s figure of 23,466 and 50% more than their male counterparts (30,000). This year’s National Women’s

Enterprise Day is aptly themed “Build the Future” and takes place online on October 7. The LEO initiative, now in its 15th year, will be hosted by founder and broadcaster Áine Kerr. The free event will feature some of Ireland’s best known female entrepreneurs including the likes of Aimee Connolly of Sculpted by Aimee, Rachel Doyle of The Arboretum and Sharon Keegan of Peachy Lean,

who was recently supported on Dragon’s Den UK. The day’s programme will cover a whole host of areas on how to build the future of a business covering topics like, how to get started, internationalisation, finding new markets, trading effectively online, sustainability and innovation. This will be coupled with breakout rooms for networking and a host of one-to-one advice

clinics for any business issues. Jacqui McNabb, co-chair of the National Women’s Enterprise Day committee, said: “National Women’s Enterprise Day has always been a day of celebration of the very best in female entrepreneurship and highlighting the strength of that community. This year is no different, but we are very much looking forward. How can we help female entrepreneurs sustain and develop their

businesses and ideas going into the future. “The last 18 months have created huge problems for businesses but also great opportunities and businesses have to grasp those. NWED is going to look at all those areas where you can build your business for the future, what areas you need to look at and what supports are there to help you do that. “Everyone who registers and

attends on the day will not only spend it with a fantastic community of female entrepreneurs and experts from around the country, but they will learn how to build their business or business idea for the future.” Those looking to attend National Women’s Enterprise Day can find more information and register for free here and join the conversation online using the hashtag #NWED.

Wanted: your top Kilkenny business nominations KILKENNY Chamber of Commerce’s sought-after Business Gala Awards Night is back this November. The glamorous event is the highlight of the business calendar and an important networking event in the lead up to Christmas socialising. Like much of Irish business life it had to adapt in 2020 because of Covid-19. So last year, the Chamber awarded the two awards in its gift: The President’s Award went to Bobby Kerr, and the Lifetime Achievement Award went to Kitty Donohoe of Goresbridge Horse Sales. This year, the Chamber is planning to return to the Lyrath Estate Hotel on Saturday 20th November. While some businesses struggled during the various lockdowns, and indeed some companies never traded and

have only recently re-opened, the Chamber said it has been constantly amazed by the resilience of Kilkenny’s businesspeople and their employees. “We seek to celebrate this resilience by returning to the Kilkenny Business Awards,” stated a Chamber spokesperson. Nominations are open until 29th September. You can nominate a business you admire, or you can nominate your own business. There are 19 categories open to the public which can be viewed at: www.kilkennychamber.ie. Businesses may be nominated for up to three different categories. Once your nomination is received, the Chamber will contact the business and invite them to make an application. The winners of each category will be announced at the Gala Awards Night in Lyrath Estate Hotel on Saturday, November 20.

An Post’s new Brain Busters schools programme puts Literacy and Numeracy at the centre of a fun-filled, educational challenge.

‘Great resignation’ coming : half of Irish workers want to quit

If you put your mind to it you can win big for your school

A NEW study has found 42% of Irish employees intend on resigning within the next 12 months – a figure that has jumped from 21% prior to the Covid-19 pandemic. The Workhuman Fall 2021 International Survey Report tracked 3,500 employees in Ireland, the US, Canada and the UK and found that Irish people are not alone in wanting to hand in their notice. Some 48% of people in the UK have plans to quit while the figure falls to 36% in the US and Canada.

KILKENNY students spanning Primary (5th and 6th class) and Secondary (up to Junior Cert) schools are invited to enter the inaugural, national An Post Brain Busters programme. Students must successfully complete a series of numeracy and literacy challenges to secure the opportunity to represent their school at the An Post Brain Busters National Final in April 2022. An Post Brain Busters

The drive for a new job has been spurred on by a desire for better pay and greater flexibility. For women, pay was a key issue with 36% saying their reason for wanting to move jobs was that their salary was too low. This compared to just under a quarter of men (24.5%). Some 36% of men said that more flexibility was their main reason for seeking change, compared to 27% of women. Derek Irvine, from Workhuman, said employers must take action now to prevent “unprecedented” levels of staff turnover.

takes a new, ‘gamification’ approach to literacy and numeracy, inspired by the format and excitement of ‘Escape Room’ challenges. The concept, tasks and materials have been developed by teachers in collaboration with mathematician Dr Finn MacLeod, scientist Niamh Shaw and author Oisín McGann. Speaking about the programme Niamh Shaw said: “An Post Brain Busters is designed to encourage cu-

riosity and gives school goers the opportunity to put their problem-solving skills to the test. As children return to the classroom after so much disruption, collaborative, enjoyable activities which develop interest and instil pride in numeracy and literacy are key to the development of their academic interests and of Ireland’s impressive STEM talent pipeline.” The An Post Brain Busters national final will see

20 teams of three students compete for the title of Primary and Post-Primary champions. Being crowned the An Post Brain Busters champions means winning a prize of €1,000 for your school along with a weekend break for the teacher of the top team. Full details of the An Post Brain Busters Challenge will reach schools over the coming week and are also available at www.anpost. com/Brain-busters.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

News Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter PAUL HOPKINS

Shopping centre addicts: sure, it’s a day out isn’t it FOR 16 years now, Amazon has changed how virtually every one of us shops, or at least 200 million of us in some 16 countries. In 2005, the company launched Prime, the first-of-itskind, lightning-fast subscription delivery service. Along the way Amazon assembled an army of couriers hauling your packages in the boots of their cars, and turned toilet paper into the kind of thing people have delivered to their homes by the case-load — a status symbol of sorts for burgeoning middle class Ireland — no more so than in the time of the coronavirus. Amazon’s Jeff Bezos has made enough money — a lot from yours truly — to launch himself into space. Now, the online giant’s next great innovation is to build an actual department store, in the belief that, ultimately, we all, despite the phenomenal success of home delivery, prefer to go traipsing throughout a shop-

ping centre. A day out, as it were. The Wall Street Journal has reported that Amazon is planning to test several locations with their brick-and-mortar concept. This might seem somewhat counterintuitive. Especially during a pandemic, when online shopping has grown explosively and millions of us have got used to ordering even those loo rolls on the internet, why would the world’s most powerful retailer opt for the bricks-and-mortar option? Perhaps, I would contend, that the more aspects of our lives move online, the clearer it becomes that some things are just better done in person; that we are more and more addicted to going to the shopping centre. It’s the tactile experience we crave. Have we become a veritable nation of shopping centre addicts? After all, such centres, which have sprung up everywhere, offer everything

from coffee shop to multiplex cinema to top brand stores to your everyday Penney’s for socks and jocks, and those pyjamas. My psychologist friend from Magherafelt thinks so. And I learned a new word from him, over coffee the other morning in, yes, a shopping centre. ‘Oniomania’ means pathological or compulsive buying addiction. “Shopping addiction in full flight can be devastating and its wider negative impacts can be, shall we say, shocking,” he tells me. “People with oniomania feel completely ruled by the compulsion to ‘shop and spend’. The time – let alone the emotional stress – involved in visiting shops, juggling credit card bills, hiding purchases from family and returning goods can take over our lives,” he says. This addiction can lead to serious debt, dysfunctional family life, even neglected or over-indulged children. And,

it’s a problem that exists on a worrying scale for, statistically, about one in every seven of us, my psychologist friend says. I’m now in Penney’s, my psychologist friend tagging along. I’m buying socks and jocks, even though I’ve more than I could need at home. Shopping, it seems, has a tangible effect on the brain; research shows that the chemical ‘dopamine’ surges when we are anticipating a new purchase. For some people, this ‘pleasure’ rapidly declines, sometimes as soon as they’ve made that purchase, and they need to repeat the process to experience the same ‘high’ again. This increase in dopamine conjures up powerful feelings of reward and motivation. For most with any common sense, this usually remains balanced by self-control and, eh, practical financial considerations. When the process gets out of hand, however, and we

become addicted to the pleasure sensation of spending, this can turn into a full-blown addiction. Says my friend, as we reach the cashier desk: “Any addiction is a way of coping with emotions – so shopping for some people is a way to avoid

‘Toilet paper delivered by the case-load...

”

confronting negative or uncomfortable feelings such as sadness, boredom, stress and anxiety. If you’re overloaded with work, for example, you feel you deserve that treat. But, if you become reliant on that ‘hit’, it can develop whereby your response to stress is always to buy something.” “Hmmm,” I say. “That must be awful for those people...” The girl at the check-out puts my three five-pack of boxers and two dozen socks, adorned with Bart Simpson, into the iconic brown bag and I swipe my debit card. It is declined. Insufficient funds. I’m embarrassed. And suddenly feel rather down. “I’ll leave them,” I mutter to no one in particular. We exit Penney’s and I say sheepishly to my psychologist friend: “I’ll order some online when I get home.” With the rider: “We need to boost the economy in this time of coronavirus...”

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

News

Leave No Trace and protect our natural heritage AN ambitious new Strategic Plan to inspire responsible outdoor recreation over the next three years has been launched by Minister of State for Heritage, Malcolm Noonan TD. Speaking on the launch of the new Leave No Trace Ireland Strategic Plan 2021 - 2024, Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan

TD, said the new plan reflects a changing relationship with the great outdoors and a need for stakeholders to work together in its stewardship. “We have all witnessed a remarkable reconnection to nature over the past year and this new Strategic Plan reflects that – and more. The ‘Great Outdoor’ has never been as impor-

Rooms for rent needed for WIT students HUGE demand for student accommodation in Waterford has prompted WIT to urge south Kilkenny residents with spare rooms to advertise on its accommodation e-platform. Individuals and businesses with comfortable rooms to rent are being asked to think about opening up their homes to needy students, so long as they’re located within driving distance of, or on bus routes to, WIT. If you would like some company or are interested in bringing in some extra money (tax-free) WIT can help. Derek Delaney, WIT Novus Accommodation Manager says there is high demand for accommodation in Waterford. “We want to get the message out to people who may not have considered renting out their spare room that they could be helping someone out by doing so – and there is a financial benefit. “People can earn up to €14,000 a year tax-free by renting out rooms in a home ‘rent-a-room relief’. There is a huge opportunity for anybody whether they have a number of bedrooms or one spare bedroom,” he says. All you need to do is advertise your spare room on WIT’s accommodation portal, witstudentpad.ie. “It is free to advertise using the witstudentpad.ie website, developed in conjunction with WIT Novus,” says Derek. “We understand not everybody who has a spare room is tech savvy, so if you can’t get a friend or family member to help you, we have set up a

phone line to take details of rooms available. If you have a room to rent and can’t use the internet, phone us on 087 0628322.” WIT is bringing students back on a phased basis – first years start college on Wednesday, 22 September, with other students having started on 8 September. Lauren English-Adams, Welfare & Equality Officer at Waterford Institute of Technology Students’ Union (WITSU) explains that while many WIT students live in commuting distance of Waterford, she has been contacted by students from across the country, who cannot commute and who urgently need a room. English-Adams outlines the benefits for home owners: “Renting a spare room to a student is a great way to have company if you’re on your own or have a large, empty house. It can also be a way to cover the cost of a son or daughter’s rent elsewhere while they are away during the week – to pay winter heating bills or save for a post-pandemic holiday. “There are a variety of students looking for a room – from first years and second years finding their feet, and international students studying for a semester in Ireland to apprentices on block study at WIT. You can choose whether or not you want to rent the room Sunday to Friday and for the academic term only.” To advertise your room/ property visit: www. witstudentpad.ie/Landlords.

tant to us as it’s been since the onset of Covid in 2020. “Where the pandemic confined us, nature freed us, and many of us sought sanctuary in nature, be it through general recreation to more adventurous hiking, boating and camping. Looking after our natural heritage is a collaborative endeavour; we all play a role, and that is why a far-reaching plan such as this

is welcomed.” Leave No Trace Ireland is Ireland’s only outdoor ethics programme, which promotes the responsible use of the outdoors. Leave No Trace Ireland Chief Executive, Maura Kiely said: “The new Strategic Plan will respond to Covid-19 as well as securing adequate resources to scale the organisation to deliver an accessible,

effective national framework on responsible outdoor recreation for all stakeholders.” Leave No Trace Ireland Chairperson, Paddy Doherty added: “During 2020, the organisation undertook substantial work to design a new Strategic Plan for the period 2021 to 2024. This was a major piece of work, which involved our core members, trainers, members and the

El Doraco serves up a slice of Mama’s Meatloaf

Six-year-old Daniel McGing from Bennettsbridge NS, is awarded a Special Merit for his artistic entry ‘House On A Hill With Trees’.

Top art prizes for Kilkenny and Bennettsbridge students TWO Kilkenny students have won top prizes in this year’s 67th Texaco Children’s Art Competition, the results of which were delayed until now due to the Covid-19 pandemic. They were Rose Smyth (15) from Kilkenny College for her work entitled Woodwork Tools’ and Daniel McGing (6) from Bennettsbridge National School for his work entitled ‘House On A Hill With Trees’. Both were winners of Special Merit Awards for artworks that Final Adjudicator, Professor Declan McGonagle said: “demonstrated high levels of skill and imagination”. The Texaco Children’s Art

Competition is popularly regarded as the longestrunning sponsorship in the

Rose Smyth’s ‘Woodwork Tools’ earns the Kilkenny College student a Special Merit Award in this year’s Texaco Children’s Art Competition.

public in the process.” This plan will direct the work of Leave No Trace Ireland for the next five years and will build on the development of Leave No Trace Ireland, from a voluntary initiative in 2006, to the vibrant national organisation that it is today. You can view the full Strategic Plan 2021-2024 at: www. leavenotraceireland.org

history of arts sponsoring in Ireland, with an unbroken history that dates back to the very first Competition held in 1955. This year, as has been the case throughout its life, it has been a platform on which young artists from Kilkenny and counties throughout Ireland have had their talents recognised and their creativity commended. From September 14 to October 2, Drogheda’s Highlanes Municipal Art Gallery is hosting an exhibition of the top 126 winning paintings in this year’s Competition. Admission is free and further information is available at: www. highlanes.ie

KILKENNYBASED El Doraco have released a new single. This time it’s a “feel good” country song called Mama’s Meatloaf. El Doraco is the collective name of several incredibly talented musicians and singers. Pat Coughlan from Kilkenny writes the lyrics and collaborates with his musician friends to bring the songs to life, reaching audiences far and wide. To attract even more listeners, Pat is inviting Radio Stations and Music Agents to download his songs from his server available 24 hours a day. For the address to download either MP3 or VAV versions send an email to eldoraco@westeuro.eu El Dorado is a passion project, a band which Pat describes as “a band of our time”, with the song lyrics written by Patrick during the Covid 19 global pandemic. One such song is Universal Healthcare Workers, a tribute to those who work in the service either within a hospital, care home or as a community service, co-written with Mick Walsh. Mama’s Meatloaf is a country type song influenced by Pat helping his wife make a Meatloaf and discussing with her where she got the recipe. All the songs are available wherever you buy or stream your music, or you can listen online at www.jango.com/ music/El+Doraco

Signs of Life in Ballykeefe ampitheatre LEMONCELLO, Aoife Nessa Frances, A Lazarus Soul and more are set to appear at Ballykeefe ampitheatre in Kilmanagh this weekend. Signs of Life is a minifestival running across three weekends in September and October at various Kilkenny and Dublin venues. The music will celebrate all that’s great about Ireland’s vibrant music scene today, taking in folk, tra-

ditional, neo-soul and afrobeat artists, with disco, hip hop and house music DJs performing at the weekend finale weekend parties. The first part of the festival takes place this Saturday and Sunday and features traditional, folk, electronic, and rock Irish acts such as Landless, Lemoncello, Maija Sofia, Rachael Lavelle, A Lazarus Soul, Aoife Nessa Frances,

Brigid Mae Power and Cormac Begley. Following the recent guidelines provided by the Taoiseach on September 1, ticket prices for the first weekend have been reduced due to increased capacity for live events. To complement the musical programme, analogue photography is part of the festival proceedings, with artists, at-

tendees and production crew encouraged to make use of the free cameras and 35mm black and white film supplied, to document their experiences throughout the day. A Super8 recap film shot by artist/ filmmaker Moira Tierney will include participant’s photographs. Signs of Life is part funded by the Live Performance Support Scheme. See: signsoflife.click

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

Opinion

Tuning in to the great television turn off ... AS I SEE IT MARIANNE HERON

GRAND isn’t it when, thanks to the dawning of a new normal, you can stop zooming and start meeting up and really talking with people. But it wasn’t the discussion about a book at the first live Book Club I was at recently that stuck most vividly in my mind but a lament about TV. “I sat down around 9.30 to watch TV, this is my time of day to relax and be entertained, and there was nothing on!” said one of the members. That remark just encapsulates the sense of disappointment, betrayal even, about the abysmal programming on our TV screens. The other book clubbers joined in the lament and talked about the way that they and people they know were switching off the TV and turning on to streaming channels like Netflix, Amazon and Apple. Someone mentioned several friends who had given up TV altogether and now used their sets for streaming. There are times — work finished, kids in bed, evening meal over or whatever — when you feel you have earned your time to turn off

and switch on as a couch potato. But what do you get? Wall to wall tacky soaps across the networks without even a choice of not watching a soap if you are not a fan, or cookery shows where frantic competitors whizz up the kind of dishes you would be afraid to try in a restaurant, never mind in the kitchen if you could ever find half the ingredients. Even a shake up of scheduling so that TV stations aren’t all screening the same or similar programmes would offer more choice. Maybe current affairs programmes - where presenters might as well be interrogating at Guantanamo Bay minus the waterboarding - have begun to pall. Maybe you ask yourself why movies you might actually like to watch are screened long after those with salaries to earn and families to raise are fast asleep. During lockdown and cocooning we were a captive audience, a time when good TV programming would have been seriously welcome. But did the stations rise to the occasion? Sadly not. But decent — or indecent depending on your point of view — programmes can be screened. Look at the soaring viewing figures for Normal People, the mini series based on Sally

Rooney’s novel of the same name. TV viewing figures are going down throughout the Western World, according to Neilsen’s Total Audience report, and when audiences decline advertising revenues go down (public service broadcasters like RTE depend for their revenue partly on TV licences and partly on advertising revenue.)

DANCEWISE is back! AFTER a very difficult 18-month break, Dancewise Academy are finally back to class and they couldn’t be more excited. While they are so grateful for technologies such as zoom which allowed them to see students on occasion, there really is no substitute for

dancing together and doing what they love. Dancewise was established by local Kilkenny choreographer, Michele Wise over 18 years ago following her dance and performing arts training in Cork. Michele has always had a huge passion for all things

dance and regularly choreographs for local school shows/ panto groups as well as charity events and fundraisers. Michele is joined in Dancewise by a team of very experienced local Kilkenny teachers who have been dancing with Michele for many years

You could be forgiven for wondering whether those responsible for programming and scheduling on TV are kept locked up in the dark completely unaware of what is happening thanks to their lack of imaginative input on our screens and whatever happened to audience research, telling them our views on their offerings. Meantime, the revenues including Castlecomer natives, Lisa Coogan and Sarah Brennan. Lisa studied dance in University of Limerick and recently furthered her studies in the prestigious Broadway Dance Centre, New York and Millennium Dance Centre, Los Angeles while Sarah studied Acting & Musical Theatre for many years and is an experienced singer & theatre performer who regularly performs in panto and musicals at the Watergate. Dancewise offer students from the age of 3+ the opportunity to learn various styles of dance and express themselves in a fun, supportive environment whilst gaining confidence and developing performance skills. Classes range in styles from Jazz, Disco, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Street dance and Contemporary. All students showcase their talents and hard work in an annual show at the fabulous Watergate theatre. This is the highlight of the year for so many students as they get the opportunity to work with a professional team in a live theatre venue. Dancewise regularly run workshops where students get a chance to work closely with top industry professionals and an opportunity to learn from guest teachers. Recent guests have included the amazing Zacc Milne from Ireland’s got talent and international movie star, Adam Garcia. In recent years, Dancewise

for streaming services, especially Netflix, are going up exponentially enabling them to put on spend big budget money on productions. More viewers turn on to watch series like the Queen’s Gambit or Clickbait, currently Netflix’s No. 3 in Ireland. Then there’s the attraction of being able to watch what you want, when you want without advertisements and if you

have to leave the programme you are watching you can pick up where you left off. The shift to streaming becomes a self-perpetuating circle – the more we are turned off TV the more likely we are to switch over and enjoy streaming services. A pity: it would be good to have attractive choices from both and it’s much easier to do the ironing while watching TV.

senior students have travelled to Pineapple studios, London for workshops with west end professionals and take in a show or two. The team are so happy to be back in action after a long break. Dancewise have campaigned for the safe return of performing arts classes for the last number of months and are delighted to have been given

the green light by the government last week. Dancewise will operate classes in Kilkenny City on a Tuesday evening in Loreto school Hall and in Castlecomer on a Wednesday evening in the community hall. For further class information or to enrol, you can contact Michele or Sarah on dancewisekilkenny@ gmail.com

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

News

ACCORDING to a new poll, one in five people in Ireland have distanced themselves from family or friends due to a disagreement about the Covid-19 pandemic. An opinion poll carried out for thejournal.ie by Red C Research found 39% of people had disagreements with friends or family about how to behave during the pandemic and 39% had disagreements about Covid-19 vaccines. Those in younger age groups were more likely to have had a disagreement about the pandemic or Covid-19 vaccines. More than half of those aged 18-24 fell out with family or friends about how to behave during the pandemic and 30% of people in this group have distanced themselves from family or friends as a result. Almost half of those aged 3544 said they had argued with a family member or friend about Covid vaccines. Just 10% of those aged over 65 have distanced themselves from family or friends due to disagreements about the pandemic. There was little difference

Loved ones split over virus and vaccine between male and female responses, with 20% of both males and females who were

surveyed stating that they had distanced themselves from a loved one.

Women were slightly more likely to have had a disagreement about Covid vaccines

Under-12s worst affected since returning to school CHILDREN between the ages of five and 12 have been the most affected by Covid-19 since their return to schools. During the first week back to school, there were 3,292 cases among children up to the age of 18, according to new data released by the HPSC (Health Protection Surveillance Centre). Of these, 1,461 cases were in the five- to 12-year-olds group, compared to 1,247 cases in the 13- to 18-year-old group and 644 in those aged up to four. At the start of September, the HSE said nearly 12,000 schoolchildren were out of class because they were a close contact of someone with Covid-19, A new plan sets out steps to end mass testing for Covid, starting with children It comes as an infectious disease specialist said she fears most children under 12 in Ireland will contract Covid-19 by early next year if more isn’t done to make schools safer. Prof Cliona Ni Cheallaigh, a consultant in St James’s Hospital, also said the country is letting the disease “rip through primary schools”. “That said, we’ve got Delta, everybody under 12 is not vaccinated, and they’re in classrooms with no masks and there hasn’t really been

with a friend or family member. This month a more significant period of easing restrictions

began, with the return of live music and larger indoor events – albeit with capacity limits in place and a requirement to show proof of immunity in indoor settings. The next significant date for the easing of restrictions is September 20, when organised indoor group activities such as sports and dance classes can resume. This date will also signal the return to workplaces on a phased and staggered basis. According to the latest Amárach public opinion survey, carried out in conjunction with the Department of Health and published last week, 61% of people believe the reaction of the government to the pandemic is appropriate, while 22% believe it is insufficient and 17% believe it is too extreme. One third of people surveyed said they think Ireland is trying to return to normal too quickly, with 45% stating they thought easing was moving at about the right pace and 23% said the return to normal was moving too slowly. From October 22 onwards, the majority of remaining Covid restrictions will be lifted including the requirements for physical distancing and wearing masks in indoor private settings.

Vaccine booster jabs ‘not right’, says WHO chief THE head of the World Health Organisation (WHO) is once again calling for wealthy countries to postpone the rollout of Covid-19 vaccine boosters. Instead, Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said at a press briefing earlier this week that richer nations should distribute extra doses to lowincome countries facing vaccine shortages, especially those in Africa where less than 3.7% of people are fully vaccinated. It is the third time Tedros has spoken against vaccine booster shots being distributed by wealthy nations, calling for a pause on distribution of the

third shots through the end of September and then through the end of the year. In Africa, vaccinations against the virus are low because many poorer nations on the continent do not have enough doses or the infrastructure necessary to put together a massive operation the way many wealthier nations have. African countries have fallen way behind the global vaccine pace. Chad is among the worst, with less than half-of-a-percent of residents having received at least one shot of a vaccine. Less than 6% of Africans have gotten at least one shot overall.

400 children confirmed after restrictions lifted

the type of work in ventilation done that would make the schools safer,” she told RTÉ Radio earlier this week. “So if I were a betting woman, I would probably be betting that most kids in Ireland

under 12 will be getting Covid before the spring, the way we’re going on now.” Her view was not shared by HSE chief Paul Reid. “If you look at the cases that we have had, it’s a much smaller per-

centage than total children in school,” he said on RTÉ Radio One’s This Week He added that what is happening in schools at the moment is what the HSE would have projected.

FOR the first time in living memory, Kilkenny GAA allowed confirmations to go ahead in the county grounds when 400 primary school children received the sacrament last Thursday. The hour-long ceremony was held at Nowlan Park, following the lifting of rigid Covid-19 restrictions. Apostolic Administrator and Bishop of Ossory Denis Nulty and GAA officials had been working on the logistics and organisation of holding the en masse confirmations for several months.

Plans to hold the ceremony on the pitch had to be moved to several of the stands in the grounds at the last minute due to the threat of rain, but that did not dampen the enthusiasm. Up to 2,500 excited children and adults gathered at the grounds from 5.30pm. Bishop Denis Nulty led proceedings from the pitch as the scoreboard told the story of the Saints winning out over the Sinners. Photo special, pages 24-27

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News

Don’t blame Covid for hospital waiting lists - Funchion SINN Féin TD for Carlow Kilkenny, Kathleen Funchion has criticised the Taoiseach for putting spiralling hospital waiting lists down to the Covid-19 pandemic. She said that the major rise in waiting times came before the pandemic, and is a result of a failed approach in health

that over relies on private medicine. Teachta Funchion said: “The Taoiseach is fundamentally wrong to say that spiralling wait times are down to Covid-19. “The major increase from 385,781 in December 2014 to 556,770 in January 2020

cannot be blamed on the pandemic. “St Luke’s Hospital which services Kilkenny and Carlow has seen its waiting lists increase by 21% since 2017 to just under 900 now waiting for an appointment. “The real effect of Covid has yet to be felt from a

major drop in referrals and other factors related to the pandemic. “As normality resumes, we will see a tsunami of missed care swell waiting lists further as hospitals are already at capacity. “I cannot see how this Government will fix the

Scrap planned tax cuts calls ICTU THE Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) has called on the Government to increase public spending and scrap planned tax cuts in its pre-Budget submission. Calling the permanent cuts unaffordable and unjustified the congress also said that increases in employer PRSI should be used to bolster “chronically low levels of Government revenue in Ireland”. However, it adds this should only begin when the economy is in recovery. According to the union body, the pandemic has shown that basic services and the welfare state have proven themselves to be the indispensable bedrocks of people’s economic well being. It welcomes the Government’s decision not to pursue an austerity strategy in the years ahead. However, it wants priority given to expenditure on housing, health, childcare and education and believes planned tax cuts should be abandoned. It proposes that the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme should become a permanent scheme to support employment in industries going

through temporary downturns. ICTU also wants to make bogus self-employment a criminal offence. Its pre-budget submission says job losses during the pandemic were concentrated amongst lower skilled workers, young workers and part-time workers. Adding that the crisis showed up “weaknesses in Ireland’s pre-pandemic economic model” and that there should be no going back to the “old low tax and low spend model”. It suggests the Brexit Adjustment Reserve be used to retrain workers. ICTU also wants the minimum wage to be raised to €10.50 an hour from January as part of a commitment to reach the Living Wage of €12.30 an hour. Social welfare rates should also be given an above inflation rate increase. The submission recommends that the Government introduces statutory paid training leave for all workers. Any business which avails of Government support schemes should be bound by commitments to labour laws and to promote collective bargaining, ICTU added.

problem if they don’t understand it. “The only solution to waiting lists is major investment in capacity measures as we will outline in our Alternative Budget this year. “That means more beds and, crucially, more staff, as well as major investment in

IT modernisation to develop a centralised referral system and an integrated waiting list management system. “I will also be proposing a major fund to expand theatre capacity and diagnostic equipment to boost hospital capacity to cut down waiting times.”

Walk your way for Alzheimer fundraiser

Entrepreneur Pamela Laird issues rallying call to Kilkenny public.

KILKENNY folk are being asked to make every step count for the second Virtual Alzheimer’s Memory Walk taking place this Sunday. The Memory Walk is for all ages and abilities to unite together with their families and communities to raise awareness and funds for dementia supports. There are 1,413 people living with dementia in Co. Kilkenny and the Alzheimer Society Ireland is hoping that 5,000 walkers across Ireland will help

them raise €250,000 for vital services to support them and their family carers through the Covid-19 public health emergency and the aftermath of the lockdown. Virgin Media TV presenter Martin King, is a firm advocate for the charity. He shared his family connection with dementia in a moving documentary called ‘We Need to Talk About Dementia’, which formed part of the successful Donate for Dementia Week on Virgin Media TV

last March, and received a warm reception for its honesty and sensitive portrayal of dementia. Martin’s mother, Christina, was diagnosed with dementia and passed away in 2019. Pamela Laird, the former Dragons Den and the BBC’s Apprentice contestant, is also backing the event. Her father, Sylvester, was diagnosed with dementia in 2016, which has been challenging for her family to deal with especially during the

pandemic. Walk on your own, with your household or your pet dog, it’s guaranteed to be a feel-good and uplifting occasion. It’s up to you where you walk from the back garden to the local park – It’s Your Walk, Your Way. Family-friendly prices €7 for kids and €18 for adults. Follow these 3 easy steps to take part: 1. Visit www. memorywalk.ie; 2. Register for your pack and tshirt; 3. Plan your route for Sunday, September 19.

Kilkenny volunteers tackle Beach Clean OVER 100 volunteers will help tackle marine litter in County Kilkenny this weekend. After a break in 2020, six volunteer groups have signed up for Clean Coasts’ Big Beach Clean 2021 and are ready to tackle litter in County Kilkenny. The event launches today and will run until Sunday, the same weekend as International Coastal Clean-up. This year sees the involvement of the National Spring Clean programme with regis-

trations open nationwide to all residents of Ireland, no matter how far from the coast they are based. The Big Beach Clean is an annual call-to-action organised by Clean Coasts that calls volunteers from communities all over Ireland to get involved and remove litter from our beautiful coast at the end of the bathing season, as part of the International Coastal Clean-up (ICC), operated internationally by Ocean Conservancy.

The initiative is also an opportunity for the over 100 registered volunteers to get involved in a worldwide citizen science project, which will entail collecting the amount and types of litter on Irish beaches and filling in Clean Coasts’ Marine Litter Data Cards that will help heighten awareness about the issue of marine litter serving as an indicator of the magnitude of the problem. For more information visit www.cleancoasts/org.

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News Your Money

Time to be a pension detective BY JOHN ELLIS FINANCIAL ADVISOR

IT’S pension time again. Advertising is being ramped up across all media streams encouraging us all to either start a pension or increase our contribution to existing plans. As we discussed before, a pension is a long-term investment. Its value can go down as well as up and could be worth less than was paid in. Laws and tax rules may change in the future. Your own circumstances and where you may have lived will also have an impact on the tax treatment of the plans. If you’ve worked multiple jobs over the years, you may have been added to several pension plans by your past employers. You might also have a few personal pension plans that you opened yourself. As a current advertising bill board states, “We

believe small actions can have great impacts,” so decide this is the year you will track down your old pensions. With a pension transfer, you can combine all your pension plans into a new, single plan. This will help you see the total amount you have saved for later life much more clearly and it could even result in lower annual charges. You can also factor your combined pension plan total with the old age state pension thereby having a clearer picture of how much pension savings you might have to live on in later life, giving you the option of whether you choose to retire fully or simply reduce the amount of hours you work. Here are some other reasons to consider combining pension plans: Better planning - once you can see your savings in a combined pension pot, it should be easier to know how much you have to live on in later life. More value - you could have a better range of investment choices and lower management charges.

Better management - with all your pension savings in one place, you can cut back on paperwork by focusing on a single plan Better retirement options - knowing exactly how much you have in pension can make it clearer when deciding how to take your money when you retire. But transferring pensions isn’t for everyone. There are a few things you should think about that can help you decide if it’s the right choice for you: There’s no guarantee that your retirement income will be better after transferring your pension plans into one place. That’s why it’s best to contact your Financial Advisor to carefully make an informed choice. Your existing pension plan may give you benefits or guarantees that the new plan might not offer and/or you might also find that the new plan doesn’t offer the same investment choices that you’re currently invested in. Remember, speak to your Financial Adviser if you’re unsure about pension transfers.

How long does it take? From start to finish, pension transfers can take a matter of weeks or months. The more information you have, provider’s name, policy numbers etc. the faster the process will be. Typically, you will be asked for the following information about each plan you’re thinking about transferring: Your latest pension statement for each provider and /or a recent valuation statement if you have one. If you don’t have that information not to worry, information can be gleaned using previous address, dates of birth and names of previous employer. Once you know who your pension plans are with, you can contact them to get the relevant information we need before we start your transfer. This can be time consuming, and you may not know where to start, but with a letter of authority from you to your Financial Advisor the process will begin. John@ellisfinancial.ie 0868362633.

Community Group

Ciężki i lekki or Trom agus Éadrom

LANGUAGE or lack off is one of the greatest barriers to inclusion. A great way to understand a language is to possibly speak it bilingual. Who can forget the great Broadcaster Liam Ó Murchú of RTÉ Television’s Irish language chat show ‘Trom agus Éadrom’. We may not have been fluent Gaelic goers but with his format of b lingual interviews we knew enough to enjoy the shows Sometimes we can highlight the beauty of language especially when we read the prose of some of the great authors of this and past generations. On the 30th of September this year we celebrate European Day of Languages. This year we have an incredible event where part of the day’s itinerary is the chance to meet Ireland’s leading writer

Colm Tóibín in conversation with selected translators of his prose into European language Joining Colm Tóibín and his French, Greek and Polish translators, Anna Gibson, Athina Dimitriadou and Jerzy Kozłowski, to celebrate the European day of Languages from a Polish perspective renowned Polish translator Jerzy Kozłowski being one of them. This year’s event will take place

in the Trinity Centre for Literary and Cultural Translation. On a lighter note but still one of importance our great friend JOXER GOES TO PL POLAND! To discover new, this groundbreaking video go to www.joxergoestopoland.ie Join Joxer on his trip around Poland and help him get the best possible score! There is no download needed, just type www.joxergoestopoland.ie and enjoy the experience on any device! At the end of the game, register your score in and see if you get on the Top 10 Scoreboard. The highest scorer each week receives a prize! As we said at the beginning, these weeks, two events are Ciężki i lekki or Trom agus éadrom

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Science & Wellbeing

Heavy metals put a sting in the tail TO latch onto a deer, ticks must first pierce a thick, furry hide. Scorpions use their tails to inject venom into prey several times larger than themselves. How do these tiny creatures deliver such an outsized punch? Such marvels have long in-

trigued University of Oregon physicist Robert Schofield, reports National Geographic. The answer, according to his new paper published in Scientific Reports, lies in the very atomic structure of their tools. Scientists already knew that the mandibles, fangs, and

stingers of several invertebrate species contain large amounts of heavy metals, such as zinc, copper, and manganese—up to 20% by weight in some species. But they didn’t know how the metals related to durable proteins that are also found in these invertebrates’ body parts.

By analysing the proteins and heavy metals at a molecular level, Schofield and colleagues learned that individual metal atoms are woven into the proteins to create a strong, longlasting composite material, which they’ve dubbed heavy element biomaterials.

Animals have evolved another way to form a hardy natural material. Known as biomineralisation, this widespread process occurs when proteins in an animal’s body wrap around large mineral crystals, such as in bones or some seashells. But this has its limits: “Creat-

What do Putin and Bieber have in common? HUMANS are so good at identifying faces that we see them in places where they do not exist, such as on the moon or Mars or in combinations of circles, line segments, and dots, writes bigthink.com. It is a particularly useful skill for a social animal. Yet, how exactly we recognise faces and process them is not exactly known. Now, a new study published in the journal Cognition shows that what we think of a person influences our perception of their facial features. In other words, we think people with similar personality traits look the same. Knowledge of a person’s personality can warp the perception of a face’s identity and bias it toward alternate identities that are ostensibly unrelated. For example, if Vladimir Putin and Justin Bieber have more similar personalities in your mind, then they visually appear more similar to you The initial study, carried out with the help of roughly 200 volunteers, had famous faces placed next to each other above a test picture of one of them.

Volunteers had to then move their cursor from the test picture to the image of

the same person as quickly as possible. Subjects then rated the likelihood that

each famous person in the study had particular personality traits. The

people used in the study, all white men for the sake of consistency, were Justin Bieber, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Jimmy Fallon, Ryan Gosling, Matthew McConaughey, Bill Murray, Bill Nye, Vladimir Putin, Keanu Reeves, John Travolta, and Mark Wahlberg, among others. The results showed that the volunteers were inclined to think that people with similar traits looked more alike than those with differing traits. Three more studies followed to confirm the original findings. Why volunteers think that Justin Bieber and Vladimir Putin look alike remains a bit of a mystery, perhaps they should have gone to Specsavers…

ing something sharp with a biomineral would be like making a knife out of bricks,” says Schofield. Biominerals aren’t the answer for many invertebrates, because they need sharp, sturdy body parts that can withstand continual usage. A shattered stinger, for instance, would be a death sentence for a scorpion. So they found another way, Schofield says. For his latest study, Schofield and colleagues from the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and Oregon State examined body parts of ants, spiders, scorpions, mollusks and a type of marine worm, atom by atom. They found that heavy metals, such as zinc and manganese, were evenly distributed throughout an invertebrate’s body part, unlike the matter in bone and other biominerals. This atomic structure allows the body part to be sharper and undergo more wear and tear than if the proteins didn’t have the metals. The discovery could create new potential for human tools. For instance, engineers are always looking for better strategies to create objects that are small but don’t break easily, such as smartphones and wearable medical devices like insulin pumps. Making tools with this same atomic arrangement of proteins and heavy metals could lead to products that are light, strong and resistant to everyday handling. yet another example of how nature knows best.

Palliative care, it’s time to talk A SURVEY of 1,000 Irish people has highlighted some of the misconceptions that exist about end-of-life care and the need for clearer information regarding palliative care from our medical professionals. The report found that 4 out of 5 people, if living with a serious illness, would like their doctor to talk to them about palliative care if it could help them. The finding is from a new survey of the public’s perceptions of palliative care commissioned by the All Ireland Institute of Hospice and Palliative Care (AIIHPC) to highlight Palliative Care Week (12 – 18 September 2021). Misconceptions still exist. For example, 1 in 4 people would think they only have days to live if their doctor or healthcare professional talked to them about palliative care, whereas palliative care may be appropriate for several years, not just for weeks and days at a person’s end of life. Palliative Care also recognises the role of all our healthcare professionals who come together, even throughout a global pandemic, to provide palliative care services and support in communities all across the island of Ireland.

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Travel & Leisure

Discover Bali Island of the Gods LOOKING for a slice of paradise? Bali is exactly that. Whether you come to relax, explore or party ‘til dawn, the ‘Island of the Gods’ has no end of beaches, nature reserves and landmarks to discover. From the idyllic stretches of golden coastline to the picturesque mountains, volcanoes and hillside temples, there’s always more to explore. With its dramatic shoreline and scenic fishing ports, Bali’s coast is full of postcard-perfect spots to visit. The wide, sandy beaches are naturally a big draw, as are the crystal-clear

waters – ideal for spotting the island’s exotic marine life. Jimbaran is a quaint fishing village located south of Kuta. Its breath-taking white beaches are the perfect place to while away a few hours with a book. Be sure to test the delicious local fish dishes. Despite its popularity with tourists, Bali has some of the most undisturbed natural beauty spots and historic temples in Indonesia. From water gardens to places of worship, these landmarks are the perfect escape from the shore when the sun’s at its

highest. Discover Bali’s local blend of Hinduism and animism at Pura Geger, a clifftop temple perched over the ocean in Nusa Dua. As you go inside, take a moment to stop and admire the intricately carved gate guardians and gilt detailing over the doorways. Tirta Gangga is a peaceful water garden in an enchanting former royal palace. Its pools meander through mini pagodas, fountains, pavilions and statues. Don’t forget to try the stepping stone pool. While away an hour studying the ceiling of the Hall of Justice

Top 5 travel apps for a well-planned holiday IF you love to travel, you know how chaotic planning and taking a trip can be. That’s where a great travel app can help you get organised. Here are some of the best travel apps to help you plan your next adventure. 01 KAYAK Award-winning travel app Kayak allows you to search for flights, hotels, and car rentals. The clean interface gives you a full list of possible options, including reduced hacker fares, where you book outgoing and returning flights with two separate airlines.

02 PACKPOINT A delight for anyone who hates packing, PackPoint tells you exactly what to bring. First, enter where you’re going, when, and for how long. Choose business or leisure, then select the types of activities you’ll be doing. 03 GOOGLE MAPS Google Maps is great for finding your way around in your city or anywhere in the world. Get the best route with automatic rerouting based on live traffic updates and road closures.

04 XE CURRENCY This currency converter and money-transfer tool allows you to determine exchange rates quickly and easily. Type an amount in one denomination and see the results in as many other denominations as you want. 05 ITRANSLATE Use this app to type or speak your sentence, and get the translation in your chosen language. A handy expand feature lets you display the result on your full screen to show to locals you’re trying to communicate with.

at Klungkung temple. Its unique frescoes, painted in the local wayang style, depict different punishments in the afterlife – a warning for convicts as they came to hear their sentences. The iconic Tanah Lot temple, situated on an island near Kuta and devoted to the sea god Dewa Baruna, is a must-see. Catch the sunset from here for a great photo op. If you’re visiting during the day, don’t miss the local markets to pick up presents and souvenirs. The awe-inspiring Besakih Temple sits 1,000 metres above sea level on the hillsides of

Mount Agung. It’s the largest religious site on the island – actually a complex consisting of 23 temples and pavilions, built

on six levels. Parts of the site date back over 2,000 years and it’s now the centre of Balinese Hinduism.

GETTING THERE…

• Abbey Travel offer a package from Dublin to Bali Denpasar International including: • Seven nights at Lumbung Sari Cottages & Spa in Ubud, Bali (bed & breakfast) • Room service • Transport to and from airport • Massage • Bike rental • Swimming pool * €977 per person PLEASE NOTE: Price may vary and travel is pandemic dependent.

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Community Group

How to buy a home in 2021

A Romanian couple’s journey to buy their first home in Kilkenny, Ireland BUYING a house should be exciting, but during a Pandemic, things can go downhill. Our journey started a few years ago when we

decided that we would love to have our own place to call Home. It was just a thought, a dream, if you will. But after

the baby came, back in 2019 we knew we had to fight to make our dream come true. Just when we thought we were close to raise the 10% and

apply for a mortgage, Covid 19 Pandemic started. I can remember it well, because Icame back from maternity leave the exact Monday the

Pandemic started. We had so many mixed feelings about everything; having a small

baby in the house, I was working from home, and my husband, just like half of the country was at home on Covid 19 payments. It was stressful and hard, because I can say I had 2 babies. My husband was not used to being at home all day, and a 7 month old who needed constant attention. I’ll be honest and say it felt like I had 3 full time jobs. What initially was thought to be a 3 week situation, ended up to be months of lockdown and not leaving your house for more than 5 km distance. Our dream of owning a house seemed to be impossible. Fast forward to March 2021 we approached a bank and spoke with the Mortgage agent to start the process of applying for a loan. If you intend to get a mortgage, most of the banks will ask for: • 10% deposit • Last 3 payslips for you and your partner/spouse • Utility bills and ID We were lucky to have the mortgage approved in principle in a week. Hurray!!!! And our dream was nearly a reality but not yet and check next week’s edition and we will tell you what came next

Community Group

From migration to integration WRITTEN BY NATALIA CAULFIELD FOR TWILIGHT COMMUNITY GROUP 085 1229664 LAST week we gave you a brief overview of the Programme the Twilight Community Group and partners from Migration to Integration international Erasmus + project. This week we wish to give you a more detailed insight into the activities involved for our partners Over several afternoon sessions, the groups teamed up and worked on traditional sports games from their respective countries. A wide range of games were demonstrated, some familiar and some that caused hilarious confusion. The aim of this activity was to compile a manual of different sports games that could be used to play with children from migrant camps and in our work

when we return home. Using sport as a tool, participants were encouraged to develop simple instructions that could be communicated non-verbally. Having completed several interesting workshops earlier in the week that served to enhance our

non-verbal communication skills, we learned how meeting people from other nationalities can pose many different communication challenges, the main one being a language barrier but there are also many cultural differences that need to be respected. In our national teams we discussed the realities of the migrant situation in each of our countries and presented our findings to the group. Our partner teams from Malta,

Turkey, Portugal, Serbia, Italy and Lithuania spoke about the realities of the crisis in their counties. There are both wonderful initiatives happening and heart-breaking situations but one of the main takeaways was that here in Ireland, we are extremely sheltered from the realities of the movement of people across a continent that is home to three quarters of a billion people. There is no better way to learn about nationalities that differ from our own than with a special evening dedicated to culture, food, drink and music etc. We had a wonderful time sampling tasty treats from each country and learning about their cultural history during Intercultural Night.

Some highlights included feasting on delicious hazelnuts that travelled from one participants grandmothers garden in Italy, learning a

traditional Turkish dance and delighting in a traditional Serbian alcoholic drink called Rakija. Team Ireland presented an exciting slideshow that highlighted all of our best bits. Following that, we had a demonstration of hurling tricks by Mursaleen, our honorary Kilkenny man for the day and a video showing the myriad of skills involved. The participants loved to learn about the fastest field game in the world and some even tried their hand at a few tricks! We gave them some Jameson and Baileys to sample too, sure it’d be rude not to! We had a presentation on the Bosnia and Herzegovina Balkan migrant route from the course leader and he gave an extremely insightful lesson on the history of the area and how it has ended up as a migration bottle neck. We then worked in our teams to focus on how we can disseminate the information learned in our own respective countries when we return home. We have had many great ideas relating to Twilight Community Group so watch this space! In next week’s edition Natalia Caulfield tells us of a trip to a Migrant Camp.

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News

New ‘green’ car share more than doubles THE share of new electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles out of all new registrations in the first eight months of the year has more than doubled when compared with the same period of 2020, the latest figures from the Central Statistics Office show. Electric and hybrid cars con-

Beef farmers need access to China market PRESIDENT of IFAC, Ireland’s farming, food and agribusiness specialist professional services firm, said the decision by the Brazilian authorities to stop exports to China presents a huge opportunity for our beef sector. Tim Cullinan, IFAC President said: “The Taoiseach Micheál Martin, the Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue and the Government must now redouble their efforts to secure an immediate return of Irish beef to the Chinese market. “We should be making the most of this decision by Brazil. It’s a chance to gain a foothold in a market where demand is growing for quality food,” he said. Brazil exported nearly 400,000 tonnes of beef to China in the first six months of this year, underlining the scale of the market that exists there. IFA Livestock Chairman Brendan Golden said the Chinese market for Irish beef for the first six months of 2020 had grown in value by over 60% to €22.5m, compared to the previous year. This is a clear indication of the strength of demand and potential for Irish beef exports. “There’s huge demand for beef in China. It’s critical that Irish farmers who produce to the most exacting standards in the world are in a position to avail of this,” he said. The Livestock Chairman said the Government can not let the opportunity pass and must immediately secure the return of access for Irish beef to this strong and growing market. In May, it was announced that Ireland had attained official status from the OIE of negligible risk status for BSE. If you need any further support, speak to your financial advisor or contact ifac’s team of specialist advisors who are available to help you plan for your future. Visit www.ifac.ie or call 01-4277400.

tinue to grow in popularity. Just over a quarter (25.5%) of all new cars licensed in the first eight months of the year were electric and hybrid cars, compared with 15.3% of new cars licensed in the first eight months of 2020. When electric and hybrid cars that both plug in and do

not are combined, the number of new electric and hybrid cars licensed in the first eight months was 105.4% greater than in the same period in 2020. Electric or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles alone constituted 14.9% of all new cars

licensed for the first time in the first eight months compared to 6.6% in the first eight months of 2020. In August, 8,563 new private cars were licensed in Ireland, compared with 7,360 in August 2020, which was an increase of 16.3%. This com-

pared with 7,202 new private cars licensed in August 2019. Volkswagen (1,088) was the most popular make of new private car licensed followed by Hyundai (849), Toyota (830), Kia (708) and Skoda (672). Together these five makes represented almost half (48.4%) of

Shine a light on homelessness

all new private cars licensed in August. In the first eight months of the year, 34.4% of all new private cars licensed were diesel, compared with 43.4% in the same period for 2020. Some 81.3% were in the A/B CO2 emissions bands.

FOCUS Ireland and Bord Gáis Energy are appealing to business leaders, companies, employees and individuals to sleep out for one night in October to help raise funds for vital homelessness services. As a result of the Covid-19 impact across Ireland, people experiencing homelessness are more vulnerable than ever before. In 2021, Focus Ireland’s Shine a Light Night campaign, supported by Bord Gáis Energy, is aiming to raise €1.5 million to support people experiencing homelessness. This year’s event will take place on Friday, October 15, and it is open to everyone to get involved by joining virtual and in-person sleep out events across the country to give one night in solidarity with those experiencing homelessness in Ireland. There are 930 homeless families in Ireland. 2,129 are children. With your support, Focus Ireland can move a family out of homelessness into a secure home of their own. The charity reaches families who are facing critical situations early to help prevent them from becoming homeless. They also offer long term solutions to people experiencing homelessness to ensure they do not reenter homelessness. Sign up now on shinealight.focusireland.ie or call 01 881 5900. Give just one night to change a lifetime.

Focus Ireland CEO Pat Dennigan (right) with Dave Kirwan, CEO of Bord Gáis Energy

Safety concerns for permanent Market Yard seating A KILKENNY publican has warned of safety issues if permanent Market Yard outdoor seating isn’t properly managed. JD Flynn from the nearby Kytelers Inn told KCLR.FM that Kilkenny County Council must manage the area

closely Fáilte Ireland announced €650,000 in funding earlier this week to make the outdoor dining area permanent and weather proof. Almost €200,000 was also announced for Tullow Street in Carlow and Main Street in

Borris to upgrade the amenities that were put in when indoor dining at local pubs and restaurants was restricted during the pandemic. JD Flynn from the nearby Kytelers Inn says it was such a welcome move when introduced at Market Yard by

Kilkenny County Council. But he says it’s now taking business from local pubs and could cause problems in the future. ”They’re taking drink from off-licenses and setting up camp on the tables and enjoying the nightlife that would have been in a pub or

nightclub. ”But they’re doing it right there in the Market Yard and it’s having a consequence on the cleanliness of the area and also the safety of the area as well. There is a consequence to this funding...this area needs to be managed.”

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

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Feature

Field and place names in and around Bonnettstown

With thanks to Cois Ceim and the Saturday Walkers group Ardboy: Ard Bui A yellow eminence Bonnettstown: Baile Bhoineis, Bonneys homestead. It was anciently called Cronog, a little hill or slope. Bonnettstown Hall was built in 1737 by Samuel Matthews. Anne Cuffe, the wife of Samuel Matthews was an aunt of the first Lord Desart. A castle in ruins in the stable yard belonged to Robert Shee in 1539, but was Ormonde property previously. There were two raths and a raithin and the name of the passing stream is the Cloichrean, meaning the stony stream. Fields are Caitheanmh siar, Cuilin a little angle. Pairc an Tobar field of the well, and Scairt a thicket. Booleyshea: Buaile Ui Sheadghdha, O Shea’s Booley, O’Shea’s Dairy. The O’Shea or Shee family originated in Co. Kerry figured in civic affairs in Kilkenny city. They were recorded as one of the ten civic families of Kilkenny. The Booleyshea ruined castle stands beside the Cloran stream.

One field is referred as Pairc na Pise the field of the peas or vetches. Cappagh: Ceappagh na gCaorach, the Sheep Plot, Ceappagh means a tillage plot of land on a dry hill side. There is a slugaise, slugaire, a swallow on the Cloran stream. Cloranshea: Cloichrean Ui Sheaghdha, O’Shea stony place. The ruined castle adjoins the Rafter homestead which has been the home of the family for over300 years. There is a raithin here and fields are Ban Ard the high field, Bawn na Coille, meaning wood bawn, Cro beag a small enclosure, glean na gabhair the goats field, Gort na muc the pigs field, Gort an sionnac, the foxes field. Gort an Bhaile the site of an old village. Pairc na gcaapaillini little field of the ponies. Riasc a sedgy field, Tigh faille, house of the slope. Gold was found in the castle about 300 hundred ago. A little boy was playing in the castle and found a Sovereign and ran to show it

to his father. It is said a shovelful of sovereigns were found. Dunningstown: Baile Ui Dhuinin meaning Duinnings homestead. The castle hill probably indicates the site of a former castle. Aoibhdhearc meaning a pleasant view. Gort na ngiollai the servants field, Mullan an null meaning the apple tree hill. Pairc na sceithe, field of the whitethorn. Dreelingstown: Baile Ui Dhraoileain, O’Drellings homestead. An old road runs through the town land called Closheen meaning Cloichrin, a little stoney road. Gort an Tobair the well field. Garrai Lochlainn Loughlins garden. The Breagha river rises here in the high lands to join the Nore in Kilkenny. Ballydunne: Baile donn, a place of brown soil. Fields here the Beithin meaning the burnt land. Caitheamh siar (causheer) meaning a throwback. That is a field left fallow for a season after being reclaimed by digging. Clias

bui, a yellow trench. Cul dearg a red soil angle. The Faiche a sporting green. Holdensrath: This was also known as Fowlings rath. The Fowlings held these lands until 1544. The family changed their name to Howling later to Holden. The entire property was forfeited in 1653 to two Cromwellians, Overington Blunden and Thomas Evans. The ruins of the castle stand close to the quarry which was operated by Hearnes of Waterford for church and monmental stone work.

Kingsland: Fearann Ui Chiogna, Lacken: Leicean also Lackenalonty meaning a hilly slope, there was a castle in the castle field. The base of Grace’s cross known anciently Cros Eamon de Gras is by the road side at Whites gate. It is recorded that the cross was erected to the memory of Edmond Grace of Courtstown and Catherine Archer, a newly married couple where Edmond was killed by his wife’s former suitor.

New town: Baile Nua meaning a new land division. Cuilin a little angle. Kylenaboul Coill na bPoll wood of the hollows. In a field named Old Gardens are the remains of a church and church yard long destroyed. Ballyfinan castle in this townland belonged to the Selingers or St. Ledgers. Poll an tSughaidhe is a slugaise or

swallow hole on the Clochog stream rising in the Northern hills which disappears completely underground in Castle Blunden townland. Palmerstown: Baile Almaire, Palmers homestead. The name could also translate Baile an phalmaire, meaning the pilgrim’s homestead.

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Bishop Nulty confirms 400 Kilkenny Children in Mass Ceremony at Nowlan Park

“Our faith does not need to be limited to some sacred location” - Bishop IT had all the appearances of an ordinary Thursday night on the Hebron road in Kilkenny. G.A.A. stewards lined the gates at the entrance to ‘Árdán de Grás’ stand at Nowlan Park. One would be forgiven in thinking that there was a club match ready for throw in. Mind you with the number of ‘maor’ bibs in view you would be equally forgiven in believing that big numbers were expected. In fact, Thursday September the 9th was a special occasion for the two thousand plus people in attendance. Nowlan Park was the venue for the Confirmation of almost four hundred children from Kilkenny city schools.

Children and their families will no doubt look back on this wonderful night as a very rare and special occasion when Bishop Denis Nulty and priests from the four Kilkenny city parishes welcomed the Two thousand stong attendance. Speaking prior to the Confirmation, Denis Nulty, Apostolic Administrator of Ossory, spoke of his delight at being able to come together in a safe environment to celebrate their faith and the faith of those for whom this was a very special moment. “Our faith is not, and should not be, limited to the Church or some other ‘sacred’ location”, said the Bishop.

All pix: Danny Lahart The Bishop also said that he believed that by having the Confirmation at UPMC Nowlan Park, that they could speak in a very special way to the children. “It is”, the bishop continued, “not only a very special occasion for the children to remember, but also, we hope that it will be a teaching that will leave an impression”. Denis Nulty thanked the Kilkenny G.A.A. for their support and also the priests from the four parish. He paid a special word of thanks to the principals and teachers of the city schools, who in spite of the pandemic and in the midst of an extraordinary year of education, had done so

much to support and help the children on their journey to this celebration. “Most importantly, I want to thank the children and their parents and guardians for the work and preparation they have put in to this celebration”, concluded the Bishop. Music on the evening was provided by James Rice with some beautiful singing by Orla Phelan. Readers on the night were Michelle Ní Bhuachalla, and David Ryan. The sacrament of Confirmation was performed by Bishop Denis Nulty, Fr Richard Scriven, Fr Jim Murphy, Fr Tom Norris, Fr Lorcan Moran, Fr Dan Carroll,

Fr Raymond Dempsey, Fr Peter Muldowney, Fr Willie Purcell, Fr Dermot Ryan. Participating schools included: Saint Canice’s National school, Saint John’s Senior National School, Johnswell National School, Kilkenny Model School, CBS Primary School, Presentation Primary School, Gaelscoil Osraí, Kilkenny School Project, Saint John of God National School, Saint Patrick’s De La Salle National School, Stewards were supplied by Nowlan Park and volunteers from the four parishes. Gemma Mulligan, the Pastoral Coordinator of Ossory acted as MC on the night

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Bishop Nulty confirms 400 Kilkenny Children in Mass Ceremony at Nowlan Park

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

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Picture special Caoimhe and Leo Dunne

The Oakman Family

All pix: Danny Lahart

The Roche family

A historic event Gary and Ryan O’Donoghue

Bishop Nulty confirms 400 Kilkenny Children in Mass Ceremony at Nowlan Park on Thursday, September 9th

The Brannigan Family The Moore family

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

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Picture special

The Kenny family

The Walsh family

The O’Neill family

The Butler family and Billy O’Neill

The Butler family

THe Neradie family

The Maloney family

The Ibrahaim family

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

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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 eleven sees poems from John Sheahan, Andrew Small and Isobel Ní Thighearnáin *We are delighted to feature a poem by John Sheahan who launched the poetry book. John was a member of The Dubliners Ballad group.

Timescape When time was young and plentiful I squandered it on hop, skip and jump And dallied in every byway. Now I move with measured pace, Pursuing punctuality; Timing tasks in microseconds; Saving precious minutes in a bank of time. One day, when clocks have stopped And the banker has absconded, I’ll arrive, neither late nor early, But dead on time. John Sheahan

Solas an Earraigh (Spring Light) Lying within it holds me in its grasp. My winter wait in light, in silence, is over. My resurrection has begun. Hands into earth, head searching, I emerge, gentle, silent. Shadows break the dawn, morning mist hangs over my head. My grasp releases and beauty unfolds. Fragrance fills the air. I am with bowed head, penitent to spring sunlight. Andrew Small

Mo Chreideamh Is duine mé Duine casta, dúnárasach Duine le croí, Ach dúirt siad liom nach bhfuil sin ceart Gur caithfidh mé guí. Ar an Dia,ar an Mac, chun an Diabhal a imeacht, Ó m’anam,a bhfuil gránna, Níl,nach grá, ach gránna,ùafásach, mícheart, Homaighnéasach. A scread siad i m’aghaidh le deora i mo shúile, dúirt mé,ar a laghad, Is féidir liom buachaill a thabhairt abhaile, chuig an mháthair A béal ag magadh, nach cailín ceart mé,tada Is feidir liom a dhéanamh. Ná bíodh focal as do bhéal” A dúirt an sagart liom, Ach tá an lá sin fós ann, An lá a bhriseadh mo chroí, Síos ar mo ghlúine,ag guí, Chuig an Dia nach néisteann Do sna páistí a seineann Ceol gan ainm. Ghuí me go nach mbuailfeadh An Máthair mo chroí bocht briste, Ach anois tá gach rud scriosta. Toisc gur labhair mé mo chreideamh, Ní creideamh an séipéal Nó creideamh mo chlann shaol. Ach creideamh mo chroí. Mo chroí bocht,briste Mo chroí gránna,úafásach, mìcheart Agus Homaighnéasach. John Sheahan

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The Kilkenny

Observer

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

Fashion

Style & Fitness

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

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Fashion, Style & Fitness

All a girl could want this

Autumn GOODS of Kilkenny are delighted to announce that Whistles is now open on their 1st Floor

WHISTLES is a shopping destination for the busy, dynamic woman and have timeless pieces with an intelligent sense of design. Understated yet cool, throw on

but never throw away – this is real life fashion. Goods have also opened an Accessory department on their ground floor featuring Handbags, Purses, Jewel-

lery, Hosiery and Gift idea’s adding variety to their ever-expanding Cosmetic department. Here you will find new brands such as INKY, INDEED, Embryolisse and

hot off the press new releases from SOSU and LUNA by Lisa. Across their existing De-

partments Autumn is well and truly the in season. Lots of new Shoes and Boots in the Shoe Suite and the most beautibeauti ful Kids coats all available in their basement. Plenty of cosy Nightwear has arrived in their Lingerie Department on the 2nd Floor along with a whole new range from Beaumont and Via Appia in their Gardeur

Department. Choice on the ground floor have moved across the store to a larger area and have added a new leisurewear brand ART. Express Beauty, offering Threading, Waxing, Massage, Nails, Make Up, Piercing, Braiding is now available for a walk-in service and you have the convenience of booking your appointment on-line with your favourite therapist on @goods.ie. At Goods they say, first and foremost, find the beauty that you carry within you and let Express Beauty @ Goods do the rest! Shop this wonderful store 24hours a day on goods.ie.

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Fashion, Style & Fitness

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

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Fashion, Style & Fitness MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre IT’S that time of year again…a new season means time to transition our wardrobes as we change from summer to autumn. Find all the newest fashion trends at MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre to help you switch up your wardrobe. If you’re still holding on to a little bit of summer this beautiful brown floral dress from River Island combined with a longline denim jacket and beanie hat makes for the perfect autumnal outfit. Or add a pop of colour to your autumn wardrobe with a vibrant, patterned dress from Carraig Donn. For a trendier look, pair these fab trousers from H&M with black boots and an oversized knit top to complete the ensemble. For a more casual look swap out the boots for a pair of trainers from Skechers. No autumn wardrobe is complete without a coat and Regatta’s lightweight soft shell is ideal as the weather starts to cool down, but don’t worry if you like to feel that bit warmer as they have a range of quilted coats in store too. A new season doesn’t have to be all about changing your wardrobe, perhaps a space in your home needs a little refresh too. TK Maxx have an amazing selection of homewares to choose from to create that perfect cosy autumnal feel. Once you’ve finished redecorating make sure to light a nice autumn scented candle to relax and enjoy your new revitalised space. For more autumn inspiration make sure to follow MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre on Facebook and Instagram.

Hello Autumn!

H&M €19.99 u

u River Island Denim Jacket €135, Dress €6, Hat €18 H&M €29.99 u

t Carraig Donn €39.95

q Skechers €80

*All prices correct at time of print

q H&M €39.99

TK Maxx €26.99 u

TK Maxx €79.99 u t Regatta €40

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Fashion, Style & Fitness

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

National Fitness Day 2021

one and enough equipment to cater for everyone. 2021 has seen us continue our investment in the facility, this time we have improved our studios adding in a new dedicated spin studio offering the very best in lighting and sound to bring our members the very best spin experience possible. Our two previous studios have now been combined into one large studio and we are just finishing off a fantastic lighting and sound experience in this space also. We are very excited to be bringing the very best in classes to our members and we know they will love the new classes we have in store for the autumn. We have devised a brand new program of classes for our members and we are looking forward to welcoming our members back into our studios over the next few weeks and months. T.j. Reid’s also has a team of experienced and friendly Personal trainers at your disposal, we would encourage everyone to try this service. Our team of personal trainers are among the very best in the country and we are delighted to have them as part of the T.J. Reid team. To speak to a personal trainer please email pt@ reidfitness.ie.

Fashion, Style & Fitness

On Thursday 23rd September T.J. Reid’s Health & Fitness club will be taking part in the Ireland Active National Fitness Day celebration

Community Footcare... what I can do for you! IM a fully qualified and insured Foot Health Practitioner, holding a diploma in Foot Health Care from the Same Institute UK. As a Foot Health Practitioner I specialise in the care and maintenance of your feet and I deal with all sorts of foot issues including Corns, Callus(Hard Skin), Heel Fissures, Ingrowing nail problems, Fungal Nails, thickened nails, Athletes foot and Verrucas. Continued Professional Development (CPD’s) are an Important part of refreshing my skills and keeping up with new treatment options and techniques. I have a special Interest in both the Diabetic foot and the elderly foot. Most people benefit from foot care maintenance to keep their feet healthy and pain free. Our feet go through a lot and it is important to care for them from birth and throughout each phase of your life, whether you are a fitness fanatic, a busy professional or enjoying retirement. While foot problems are very common and affect people of all ages, being elderly, overweight or diabetic increases problems and also the need for a footcare routine. Also impractical or ill fitting footwear can also lead to feet being neglected and not maintained. I accommodate with home visits and will now be offering a clinic setting also. I assure all my patients they will be dealt with in a kind, understanding and confidential manner. Please feel free to contact me anytime with any queries via phone 0874139475, email catdon80@ gmail.com or Facebook.

WE will be running classes throughout the day where members will be invited to bring along a friend to experience the very best that Kilkenny has to offer in Health & Fitness. Our experienced and friendly staff will be on hand throughout the day to meet & greet everyone offering our advice on all your health & fitness needs. We are delighted to be celebrating National Fitness day 2021, it has been a long road to re-opening for everyone and we are very excited to be able to welcome our members and guests back through our doors again. We have been very busy over the past while adding to our Fitness facilities, in late 2020 we added our new strength and conditioning area to the gym, but we were unable to properly let our members experience this as we were closed very shortly after completing the €70k investment in the area. Our Gym floor has now been extended to over 15000 sq ft offering plenty of space and equipment for everyone, from treadmills to, cross trainers and the world famous Concept two rower and ski’erg’s our cardio areas has something for every-

To Contact T.J. Reids Health & Fitness club call us on 056- 4449015 or email us at info@ reidfitness.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

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Fashion, Style & Fitness

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

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Fashion, Style & Fitness

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Fashion, Style & Fitness

The benefits of a hot cup ANDREW MCDONALD HYPNOTHERAPIST

WRITE a list of stereotypically Irish things and it’s guaranteed “a cup of tea” features prominently. In recent years this has changed with coffee becoming more popular. Almost 60% of Irish adults drink the bean-based beverage at least once a day with about a third consuming several cups on a daily basis. Tea is still the clear winner though with Ireland’s population downing four to six mugs of the leaf infusion every 24 hours. There aren’t many situations where a cup of tea isn’t a perfect accompaniment. Whether sitting down to chat, grabbing a quick break at work, working through a difficult issue with friends or family, tea is there as a crutch. Well, except for oddballs like me who actually don’t like the stuff (give me coffee or yerba mate – more of that later) but I’m very much in the minority. There are several reasons why tea is good for both

body and mind which help explain why it has such an important role to play in daily life. It hydrates the body and none of us can function properly without taking sufficient liquid. Secondly, it’s a good source of anti-oxidants which can help to prevent heart disease. Tea, the green variety at least, is also known to protect against dementia and Alzheimer’s. It can help to lower the stress hormone cortisol and guard against depression. Some scientists suggest it is also anti-carcinogenic. Coffee does many of these things too including preventing fatigue and depressed mood. It also helps the body ward off diabetes, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and cancer. Furthermore, coffee leaves you feeling energised and, perhaps by virtue of that fact, helps burn fat. It’s no wonder then that Ireland is so keen on cups of tea and coffee. The actual action of consuming a warm drink is in itself soothing, particularly given we’re not blessed with the greatest weather in the world. Additionally, there are all the other positive health benefits.

Comforting drinks don’t stop there though. Obviously there are the old cold remedies of hot whiskey for adults and warm blackcurrant for children. However, Irish people are also opening up to other beverages enjoyed in parts of the world which have, until recently, had less influence on our dietary habits. Japanese matcha’s popularity is growing quickly. It’s a powdered green tea, in form a bit like instant coffee though the similarity ends there, matcha being much healthier and more natural. Yerba mate is probably a bit behind matcha in terms of becoming a go-to drink for many people in Ireland. However, health stores are catching onto it and it is extremely popular in South America. Both drinks are known for helping mental health as well as being powerful dietary aids in addition to providing many other mental and physical health benefits. Whatever you choose to put in your cup, you’re sure to be helping boost your overall wellness in both mind and body! Another reason to put on the kettle!

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Fashion, Style & Fitness

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Arts

Prima Materia marks a time when we are ready to review, renew and rebuild PRIMA MATERIA WILL BE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FROM 17TH SEPT  10TH OCT.

Kilkenny Arts Office is delighted to announce Prima Materia, a solo exhibition of work by Irish installation artist Helen Mac Mahon

Prima Materia has been curated and designed to be viewed through the gallery windows and online. This exhibition sees work being exhibited in 76-77 John Street Lower, Online at kilkennyartsoffice. ie and on Instagram @ kilkennyartsoffice. The past 18 months have seen our world rocked to its core. Contrary to what our senses would have us believe, the world we inhabit is not solid or fixed but exists in a state of perpetual creation. Institutions, structures, and supports that once seemed unassailable have crumbled in the face of an invisible enemy. Prima Materia, the name given by alchemists to the formless substance that is the essence of the beginnings of all things, is a primordial chaos existing in a state between energy and matter containing all possibilities. Carl Jung believed it to be the unconscious mind. Prima Materia, therefore, seems a

fitting metaphor at a time we find ourselves poised at a point of infinite potential, ready to review, renew or rebuild our inner and outer worlds. Mac Mahon’s art practice is concerned primarily with the phenomena of light, movement, perception, and space. The work strives to observe and reveal the ecosystem that exists between the viewer and these intangible elements that exist in a perpetual state of transformation. Changes occurring in each element have a perceptible impact on the others, revealing previously overlooked properties and characteristics. Prima Materia is the second installment in a three-part curatorial project that explores the shifting of perspectives in three chapters: Past, Present, and Future. Positioning othered voices to the fore and providing new lenses with which to view our world, each exhibition will focus on an artist or artists whose work teases out alternative

histories, hidden narratives, and speculative futures. This exhibition is part of Kilkenny County Council Arts Office’s ‘Emerging Curator in Residence Programme’. This programme is enabling Aoife Banks to gain direct experience in the field of curating exhibitions for the Arts Office in Kilkenny. This opportunity provides Aoife with the platform to further develop her career, expand her artistic and creative networks, and avail of a mentoring programme with curator Eamonn Maxwell.

to provide their payment card details upfront. The victim then becomes tied into a fixed period contract unbeknownst to them and have provided their payment card details to an unknown individual.

in order to obtain the payment card details of victims and steal money from their bank accounts. These sites look genuine and often offer discounts to attract victims. It is only when the victim does not receive their goods that they become suspicious but at this stage their payment card details have been compromised.

Community Group

‘Together we can prevent fraud’ says Murty OVER the past number of editions, we have talked about social, and community supports and topics of interest and concern for

our senior communities. We looked at financial abuse of our elders and how we can bring our seniors online. Un-

fortunately, they are fraudsters waiting around every corner. Social media and our text services are no strangers to scammers who perfect the ‘trade’ to look like professional associations and defraud us of our hard-earned cash and savings. Today we are going to discuss such fraud schemes. This week you may have received a text message(s) claiming that a parcel is waiting for you to collect. The message, which comes from an Irish mobile number and a link to a website to claim the package, is part of a new wave of phishing scams. Gardaí are calling on people to remain vigilant against these messages. The link on the message will, when opened, ask for a payment for delivery of the item. This allows the scammers to take large sums of money from your account. If you receive a text message like this, do not open the link. If you are awaiting delivery of a package and you receive one of these messages, do no open the link and instead go back to your original order and contact the supplier/deliverer directly. • Free Trial Products: Social media sites are often used to lure people into signing up for free trials on products. These scams usually involve the participant signing up for a free trial of a product which is often not genuine instructing them

• SOS or HELP Messages: This scam involves social media account holders receiving messages from persons in their “friends” or “contacts” list saying that they are in trouble in a foreign country and need help. This message usually requests that they transfer money to an account in a foreign country. The content of the messages varies but popular ones tell the story that the person has been arrested and needs money for bail or that they have fallen ill and need money for hospital treatment. These scams are also perpetrated by email. • Clickbait: This is a post on social media which is worded in a way to attract the users’ attention and persuade them to click on the link to find out more. Often times these links are to bogus websites which seek to compromise your personal or security data. • Online Shopping Fraud: Criminals set up fake online shopping sites

Crime Prevention Advice • Never send money to a third party unless you can trust their bona fides. • Be wary of unsolicited contacts or where the contact appears to be based in other jurisdictions. • Be wary when the avenues for contacting the other party are limited. • Push for direct answers and if responses are vague disengage immediately. • Never give personal, financial or security information to persons who are unknown to you. • If it sounds too good to be true it probably is. • Do your research and accept nothing as fact until you have satisfied yourself that it is genuine. We hope this article is of benefit to you, if you are unsure, worried you may have been defrauded of your money? Always contact your local Garda station on 0567722222.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

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Dine Me Food & Drink

Come

Knights and roosters… a Classico tale

With

Tasty salmon traybake Buy a whole piece of salmon for this traybake if you’re feeding a family and cut into adult and children-sized portions. It’s cooked in a delicious teriyaki sauce.

Preparation and cooking time Prep: 10 mins Easy Serves 4 Ingredients • 4 salmon fillets (or a 500g piece to cut up yourself) • 100g green beans, ends trimmed • 1 lemon, cut into wedges • 2 tbsp soy sauce • 1 tbsp honey • 1 tbsp mirin (substitute with

dry sherry or a sweet marsala wine) • 1 garlic clove, crushed • noodles or rice, to serve Method STEP 1 * Heat oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. If you have a whole piece of salmon, cut it into four fillets. Place a sheet of baking parchment on a baking tray and lay the salmon diagonally across it. STEP 2 * Cook the beans in boiling water for 1 min and drain.

Arrange the beans in piles around the salmon and add the lemon wedges to the baking tray. Mix the soy sauce, honey, mirin and garlic, and pour half of it over the beans and salmon.

STEP 3 * Cook for 15 mins, then pour the rest of the sauce over the salmon. Cook for another 5 mins. Squeeze over the lemon and serve with noodles or rice.

Cheers to Irish Farmhouse Cheese and craft beer IN Ireland, we’re very lucky to have two complementary industries in farmhouse cheese and craft beer, whose products can be paired together for the simplest of snacks, a delicious meal or a tasting session to wow your senses. Irish craft beer and farmhouse cheeses are linked by having the very simplest of ingredients which are transformed in the hands of the brewers and the cheesemakers, and through the fermentation process, to give us products which reflect the characters of the makers, the ingredients, and the landscape. It is often said of pairing food and drinks that what grows together goes together and this is most certainly the case with our beers and cheeses here in Ireland. Cheese and beer pairing If you’re trying a few pairings,

always try and start milder or lighter and work your way up to the stronger flavours, so as not to overwhelm your palate. Whether you taste the cheese first and follow with the beer or vice versa may depend on your own allegiances, but a good idea is to try and have a taste of each

separately before combining them, to see in what way the match works in changing the overall flavour profile. Make sure to take a few seconds to savour the flavours in your mouth and bring in a little air if possible. What you serve your cheese with can also have an effect on

the overall match, so think about whether your cheese should be on a light cracker, some brown bread or a wheat biscuit. Before moving on from one pairing to another it is a good idea to cleanse the palate, and a plain dry cracker or some neutral crispy bread does the job well for this. Cheat Sheet for the perfect matches: • Light beers such as lagers pair best with milder and soft cheeses • Hoppy beers such as IPAs pair best with fuller flavoured goat or sheep’s cheese, or hard cheeses • Malty beers such as red ales pair best with fuller flavoured nutty hard cheeses • Dark beers, stouts and porters work well with strong hard cheeses or blues • * Strong beers need very full flavoured robust cheeses

THROUGHOUT Tuscany, wine bottles and many a restaurant feature a black rooster, the famed ‘Gallo nero’, a marketing logo for the region’s world famous Chianti Classico fine wines with a ‘history’ that stretches back to the Middle Ages. As the story goes… Once upon a time, a knight from Siena and a knight from Florence were chosen by their respective cities to race against each other to mark the boundaries of their lands. The race was to start at first light and in order to be the first to wake-up they both used what was considered the alarm clock of the time, a rooster. The evening before the race, the Sienese knight treated his white rooster to a sumptuous banquet hoping to please him. The Florentine knight decided not to feed his black rooster at all. The next morning, when first light gently touched the countryside, only one rooster broke the silence. The black rooster of Florence, desperate for food woke up extra early allowing the biggest advantage to the Florentine knight. The white rooster, still fast asleep, failed in waking up the Sienese knight. The Florentine knight succeeded in marking the boundaries of Florence well into the Chianti area. Ever since this day, the black rooster has become a well-known symbol for great quality wine and Florentine victory. Tenuta di Carleone Chianti Classico 2018, Tuscany, Italy A great example of the region, both classical and expressive. It’s a beautiful translucent ruby in the glass with tints of brick dust to the edges. The fruit is bright and has great acidity, but also that delicious depth of baked plums and spice. A great friend to almost any meal that features salumi, pasta and a hefty slow-cooked joint of meat. Around €27 from good wine shops. San Felice Il Grigio Riserva 2017 Typical of the style that made Chianti wines world famous. Complex and concentrated, this Riserva is balanced and elegant, it boasts the brooding dark cherry and black tea character typical of the Sangiovese grape, allied to wonderful fresh acidity that makes this such a wonderful style of wine to match Italian cuisine. An authentic Chianti Classico from a top estate. A slightly more affordable option, again, available at good retailers.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

kilkennyobserver.ie

TV & Streaming

Schumacher - the man behind the visor FOR lovers of F1 or Netflix documentaries, Schumacher (released this week) is an essential watch. Cataloguing Michael Schumacher’s storied career, the documentary highlights some of the driver’s career highlights and neverbefore-seen moments. It paints an intimate portrait of the racing driver, his legacy, and what led him to become a seven-time Formula One champion. The documentary will show Schumacher’s personal life, including interviews and footage with friends and family. In the trailer, his daughter Gina-Maria Schumacher says: “Well, he is my dad, and I’m glad that he is.” Mick Schumacher also features in the documentary, seen in the trailer saying: “When I look at him, I think ‘I want to be like that.’” Mick is now a Formula One driver himself and is currently racing in the 2021 season. The documentary builds on the success of Netflix’s F1: Drive to Survive series, which has been following the past few Formula One seasons. Similar to the new documentary, the series has catalogued the events seen in F1 over the past few years through exclusive interviews. F1 series and films continue to be popular, with 2010s Senna going on to receive various awards. This documentary isn’t a retelling year on year of his racing results but rather a peeling back of the curtain

to watch right now on Netflix

Clickbait is a reminder of why Netflix series became such hits in the first place. A cast of recognisable, serviceable actors dive with melodrama and zeal into a narrative that defies logical sense but moves at a breakneck pace, ends on cliffhangers like clockwork, and incorporates just enough zigs and zags to keep viewers guessing. Clickbait grabs you, whizzes you along, and leaves you feeling satisfied before you forget everything you just watched. It’s not sophisticated, but it is highly bingeable.

He’s All That, is a sweet little end of summer sorbet with appealing young performers and a script that refreshes the original without overdoing it. There are a few nods to She’s All That, starting with Rachel Leigh Cook, the “She” of the 1999 film, as the mother of the main character, a popular high school senior and social media influencer named Padgett Sawyer. Matthew Lillard, from the cast of the original, shows up, too. Updates like a more inclusive storyline and the stress of social media are understated but meaningful.

Can you put a price tag on a life? Worth delves into that question by telling the story of the 9/11 Victims’ Compensation Fund. The fund was created by an act of Congress to ease the suffering of families who lost loved ones in the attack and keep them from suing the two airlines whose planes were hijacked. Is a janitor’s or schoolteacher’s life worth less than a Fortune 500 CEO’s because the CEO earns more money and owns multiple houses and cars and has stocks and so forth?

to a driver who enjoyed unparalleled success and experienced all the weight of expectation that came with it. From his debut to his maiden Ferrari title in 2000, the film

picks out several key moments in his career in which to focus on. Schumacher’s current condition is addressed: in an emotional interview, his wife

Corinna, explains how he is being kept happy and comfortable after the ski accident that left him with serious head injuries, but there is no recent footage of him.

Though definitely not for all tastes, Brand New Cherry Flavour is a delightfully deranged trip anchored by an incredible performance from Rosa Salazar. Daring to tackle material that recalls David Lynch’s deconstructions of the surrealism of Hollywood in projects like Mulholland Dr., it’s as ambitious as anything Netflix has produced this year. It’s not a show in which everything “works,” but it’s also quickly easy to forgive its missteps because it’s clearly the product of a showrunner willing to take risks.

One to watch out for on Amazon AMAZON has two musical films coming out this month, but we highly encourage you to watch this one over the other one. Based on the stage musical of the same name, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie (available from September 17) follows a

teenager who wants to become a drag queen and with a little help from his friends and family he just might get there. Max Harwood plays Jamie himself but Richard E. Grants joins him as his mentor and local drag queen legend Miss Loco Chanelle.

A legend playing a legend. How fitting. Set in Sheffield, England, this working-class fantasy blends a Billy Elliot-style uphill battle with the vibrant energy and colour of mid’90s misfit indies such as Muriel’s Wedding and Ma vie

en rose. If you thought it was tough for a mining-town kid to be a ballet dancer, imagine one lip-syncing in six-inch heels. It’s shallow, it’s simplistic and it all works out a little too easily, but the movie’s very existence remains a cause for celebration.

The Netflix international action thriller Hit & Run tells the gripping story of one man who is on a perilous mission to discover the truth about the love of his life. The story follows Segev Azulai a tour guide in Tel Aviv who is taking care of his young daughter and his American wife Danielle. His life is good until the day Danielle is killed in a horrific hit-and-run crash on her way to the airport to go to New York. His devastation and grief soon morph into rage when he realises it was no accident.

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

News Community & GAA Notes

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news MAJOR SUCCESS FOR MINORS Six of our minor girls were part of a great Kilkenny victory over a fancied Cork outfit in Limerick on Sunday of last week. Clara had the largest representation of any club in the squad and it was great to see six All Ireland medals coming to the parish. Laoise Nolan, Rachel Whelan, Gráinne Glynn, Emma Shortall, Katie Ryan and Keara Ryan were all part of this magnificent win. Super stuff girls. BACK TO EARTH The girls were brought crashing back down to Earth just three days later when losing 6-6 to 3-10 to the Village at the Kells Road. This match featured the welcome return of Peig Carrigan after a long injury enforced absence but it was the Village who were more fired up for the points on the night and they produced a spirited fight back to take the spoils. Clara got off to a flyer and led 2-1 to 0-0 after just 4 minutes, the goals coming from Emma Shortall and Keara Ryan. Two pointed Village frees kept them in touch at the water break and when play resumed the home team signalled their intent with an unanswered 2-1 of their own. Helped by another Emma Shortall goal, Clara went in at half time 3-3 to 2-4 in front. Three Village goals in the third quarter more than compensated for 4 Clara points, and the Village led 5-5 to 3-7 at the break. They kept Clara at bay during the fourth quarter and were full value for their 5 point win. Team - Peig Carrigan, Rachel Brickell, Katie Ryan, Laoise Nolan 0-1. Alva Power, Rachel Whelan, Anna Walpole. Gráinne Glynn, Emma Corr. Keara Ryan 1-5, 0-3f, 0-1 x 45, Siobhán Treacy, Niamh Brickell. Katie Agar, Emma Shortall 2-4, Claire Murphy.

Happy Clara girls on the Kilkenny minor panel that won the All Ireland. L to R Katie Ryan, Emma Shortall, Gráinne Glynn, Rachel Whelan, Keara Ryan, Laoise Nolan.

U14 Clara Camogie U14s had a good start to their Roinn C Championship with a first round win against St. Martins in Muckalee, Thurs 9th Sept. St. Martins got off to a strong start in the first quarter with Clara trailing at the water break 0-2 to 2-1. That however was the end of the St. Martins dominance. Following the late introduction after the water break of one of Clara’s defensive stalwarts and subsequent moving a player forward, Clara quickly took control of the game. Clara finished the first half down by only two points. In the second half Clara continued to press hard in what was an entertaining, even and physical encounter. It was the final quarter before the Clara girls finally took the lead, finishing out the stronger with a winning scoreline of 3-7 to 3-4. A good first championship test for the Clara girls and progression to a quarter final v Carrickshock. Well done to the whole team. Clara : Ava Kenny(c), Katie Boyd, Maria Hogan, Caragh Brennan, Onagh Fitzgerald, Sarah Dunne, Ceola Leamy, Pia Langton, Lucy Boyd, Katie O’Connell, Jessica Brennan, Amy Bergin, Aoibhe Callery, Danica Tervit-Krueger, Aoibheann McDonald, Moya Kelly, Lucy Kealy, Brooke Flynn. JUNIOR HURLING LOSS The Clara Juniors found the Village too strong for them on Sunday of last week in Larchfield. With the seniors playing

the day before the Juniors, they found themselves down a few players for this one and were not as strong as in previous games. They battled hard but lost out 2-26 to 2-11. Team - Bill Cody, Evan Whearty, Tom Ryan, Dermot Nolan. James Casey, Peter Nolan, Alan Coleman. Brian Nolan, Gary Kehoe 0-1. Killian Phelan 0-1, Joe Connolly 0-7, 0-5f, Luke Whelan. Dara Glynn 2-1, Noel Kehoe 0-1, Conor Booth. Subs used James Dowling, Noelie O Brien. On Sunday Clara bounced back by beating Ballyhale Shamrocks in Clara. Having played senior the day before the lads were down to the bare bones and when James Casey and Brian Nolan were both injured early on Clara had used up their full complement of subs. Happily they didn’t endure any more injuries and were able to eke out a 1-18 to 2-12 victory. The scoring honours in this game went to Killian Phelan and Joe Connolly, who scored six points and seven points respectively. There were other good performances from Dermot Nolan, Tom Ryan, Alan Coleman and Garry Kehoe. Team - Bill Cody, James Casey, Dermot Nolan, Evan Whearty. Alan Coleman, Tom Ryan, Brian Nolan. Garry Kehoe 0-2, Killian Phelan 0-6, 0-1f. Noel Kehoe, Peter Nolan 0-2, Dara Glynn. Conor Booth 0-1, Joe Connolly 0-7, 0-4f, Noelie O Brien 1-0. SENIORS DRAW Clara seniors played out a draw against Dicksboro on Saturday in Gowran. This was a good result for the club and leaves them in a good position to top the group if they can manage to beat Graigue Ballycallan in their final group game next weekend. However GBC will be highly motivated for this one as they will be in relegation trouble should they lose. MINORS The Clara minors bowed out of this year’s championship, but not before giving League finalists St. Martins a huge scare in Muckalee on Sunday. With Conor Hoyne in impressive shooting form the visitors got to the half time break only one point adrift 0-7 to 0-6. The Clara boys were holding their own and when they scored a goal in the third quarter to go four points up a huge shock looked imminent. However the goal was disallowed after a long discussion between the officials. It was a huge boost to the Muckalee boys but this was offset soon after when they had a player dismissed. However as is often the case it seemed to galvanise the St. Martins efforts and they scored two goals in the last few minutes to seal this victory 2-14 to 0-14. This young Clara team had tried everything in their power to cause a big upset here and could not be faulted for their efforts. Only captain Jamie Agar is overage for next year and with further improvement they should give a very good account of themselves. All 17 players used on Sunday did everything in their power for the Clara cause and on behalf of manager Barry Power, selectors Chris Bolger, Noel Kehoe and myself I would like to thank the entire panel for their dedication and commitment during the year. In all 22 or 23 players were used and the numbers at training bodes very well for Clara fortunes going forward. Onwards and upwards for 2022 lads! Team - Cian Kelly, Alex McDonald, Ben Crow, Ben Murphy. Luke Lawlor, Zach Lawlor, Sean Carrigan. Alex Firbank, Conor Hoyne 0-11, 0-9f. Jamie Agar (capt) 0-1, Harry Boyle 0-1, Davy Barcoe. Rory Glynn, Tommy Delaney, Ned Langton 0-1. Subs used Hugh Kelly, Joe Power. James Cody, Philip Carrigan, Dylan Cummins, Daniel Ryan, Conor Galvin, Tom Boyle, Tom Murphy, Eoin Corr, John Bergin, Liam Carrigan. U15s BOW OUT Despite getting a great start, Clara U15 hurlers were knocked out of the championship by a bigger St. Martins outfit on a balmy Tuesday evening in Clara last week. Davy Barcoe opened

the scoring with a super goal and Clara led by 2-3 to 0-2 at the first sos uisce, the second goal arriving courtesy of Liam Carrigan, who scored some amount of goals this year. However, St. Martins closed to within a goal by half time and, backed by the breeze in the second half, they led 2-10 to 2-9 at the end of the third quarter. Clara fought gamely in the fourth quarter but only had two pointed Conor Hoyne frees to show for their efforts as Martins ran out 2-13 to 2-11 winners. Great credit is due to the Clara effort and most of this team are underage again next year. Well done too to mentors Johnny Shortall, Mark Galvin, Dara Glynn and Shane Staunton. Team - Orí Phelan, Alex Firbank, James Cody, Dillon Cummins. Joe Power, Philip Carrigan, Hugh Kelly. Conor Hoyne 0-9, 0-6f, Luke Lawlor. John Bergin 0-1, Davy Barcoe 1-0, Eoin Corr. Bill Kealy, Tommy Delaney 0-1, Liam Carrigan 1-0. Subs used Sean Byrne, Daniel Ryan. CLUB LOTTO There are no winners of this weeks Club Lotto (September 7th) Next Weeks Jackpot will be €6, 800 ( September 14th) www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto HEARTBREAK FOR U13s Result: U13s Roinn A Championship Semi-Final O’Loughlin Gaels 1-11 to 2-10 Dicksboro. The large following gathered at Kells Rd this evening definitely got their monies worth. It was end to end stuff from start to finish with neither team prepared to give an inch. The Boro got a timely boost in the second quarter when they netted their first goal which helped them to a four point lead at the end of a first half that was mostly nip and tuck throughout. The second half however saw the Gaels get the better of the exchanges kick-started by a well taken goal by Conor Holohan. He was unlucky not to get a second earlier but the strike just skinned the wrong side of the posts. Adam Quigley converted two superb frees earned by the relentless work rate of forwards that included himself, Eldon Sheridan and Bill Trehy and the scores were level. Superb work by Andrew Glennon earned him a point to put the Gaels ahead for the first time and set up a final quarter in which both teams exchanged the lead in a frenetic end to a pulsating game. Full back David McGee absorbed much of the pressure throughout while centre back Esosa Dowling always put in that extra mile to add to the cause. Ronan Treacy was excellent between the posts pulling off three brilliant top drawer saves. With the game in the balance a long clearance from the aforementioned Sussa into the corner saw Bill Trehy turn his man and pop pass for Adam Quigley to swing a point over his shoulder. With advantage to the Gaels now the resulting puckout was broken by Cian Byrne, the resulting melee earned Byrne a free out at midfield which he duly converted. A massive moment that gave the St. Johns Parish supporters hope that a county final was in the offing. But the Boro would get it back to the minimum soon after and it was shoulder to the wheel time. For the next two minutes the Gaels dug in and fought for every ball and smothered out every Boro assault. As the game came to a close a ruck formed in midfield with the desire to win apparent in both teams, it was all hands on deck. The ball broke to a maroon jersey however and the path to goal was open... The run seemed like an age but when the opportunity presented the young rival dropped shot the sliotar to the net and knocked the wind out of the Gaels sails. It was a heartbreaking sound to hear the final whistle on the resulting puckout but each boy can hold their heads up and be proud of an epic effort in the greatest jersey. They’ll earn the respect of club stalwarts and have already made a name for themselves

as future club stars. Well done to all involved. .players, mentors and families. Tomorrow their u13 colleagues will play in the Roinn C Qtr Final v Mullinavat. Throw in there is at 11am. Expect all the boys to support their team mates.. because that’s what they do. Lovely hurling. Ronan Treacy AJ O Keeffe David Magee Rian Delaney Conor McDonald Esosa Dowling Tom Glennon Diarmuid Considine Adam Maher Andrew Holohan Conor Holohan Cian Byrne Bill Trehy Eldon Sheridan Adam Quigley TJ Comerford Sponsors: McCarthy’s Eurospar Ireland U15s TO COUNTY FINAL Congratulations to our u15s who now advance to the Roinn A county final in the coming weeks. The lads overcame Carrickshock in last week’s semi final at Dunmore. The very best of luck to the all the lads and mentors as they prepare now for the final. Please support them and encourage them in the lead up. Thanks to our Juvenile Sponsors McCarthy’s Eurospar Ireland for their support of all our teams. In other team news our u15s B team and u13s B team both exited their respective championships after good efforts. It was the end of the road for our minor teams also. The effort all those juvenile players put on this year was phenomenal, aided by some great coaching. Thanks to all of those who volunteer their time to promote our gaelic games. Best of Luck to all our teams CLOTHES COLLECTION Good quality clothes for recycling can be dropped to O’Loughlin Gaels GAA Club at any of the juvenile training times - Thursdays 6:30pm, Saturday & Sundays at 10:30am. All money raised will be used towards juvenile training equipment. Please Support OFFICIAL OPENING OF NEW DRESSING ROOMS Saturday September 25th is set aside to have the clubs official opening of our newly extended and refurbished dressing rooms, just in time for the lifting of restrictions in October. The day will include exhibition games and juvenile street leagues finals and all are invited to attend and celebrate. The club wish to thank all those who volunteered to make these facilities available for our players. 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. Piltown tickets: Are available from the usual sellers or any committee member. Total prize fund of €115,000. First draw takes place on September 28. EMERALDS URLINGFORD & GRAINE LOTTO September 6 prize fund was: €4,500. Jackpot: €2,500. Numbers drawn: 3, 8, 21 and 24, bonus no 2. No winner and one match three winner: R & R Guilfoyle. Promoters prize: Thomas Kavanagh. Five lucky dips of €20 each: Ber Troy, Julie Minogue, Tuesday Club, Anna Mockler Ryan, Donal Hughes. Next draw takes place on September 13 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. Envelopes have also been distributed to households in the locality, please return these envelopes to the Post Office. Draw takes place on October 3. Next week the Split the Pot is for the Walking Track so please support, thank you. MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE Courses Beginning Soon: QQI Level 4 LTI, Pathway to Employment course: We are enrolling for the QQI Level 4 LTI course which will be commencing soon. Please contact the centre on 056 8838466 for further information. Health Care QQI Level 5: We are also recruiting new learners for the Health care QQI Level 5 course commencing soon. The Mill Youth Club: Has now resumed at the centre every Wednesday evening from 5pm to 6.30pm for children 9-12 years. The Mill Allotments: The Allotments and Community Garden are open to the public from 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday each week. Community Bank Savings: Are available at the Centre. Please contact the Centre for more information on opening an account. 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, 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 Centre. Contact Sue on 056 8838466 Services that the Mill FRC provides to the public are: 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, CV / 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 a massive €636 and was won by Theresa Dollard, well done Theresa! Next week half the pot goes to Urlingford on the Moves Walking Track and the other half could be yours. So don’t miss out, get your envelopes in businesses in town or from any member of the Walking Track committee. URLINGFORD / GRAINE DEFIBRILLATOR GROUP In case of emergency, call: 085 2726396. 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. WELL DONE THOMAS Congratulations nd well done to popular young local man Thomas Fortune of Ard Lachtain Freshford who completed his first 10km race at Blessington lakes last weekend finishing in a very good time. Thomas took part in his very first race /triathlon type event recently and received a medal afterwards. Thomas is now keen into fitness and recently took part in charity night walk in support of the Night Nurses around Kilkenny. All donations go directly to the Irish Cancer society He thanks all those who donated and said it means so much to support such a great service. DEATH The death occurred last week of Michael Anthony McCabe late of Cascade, Freshford. Tony as he was known was formerly from Derrygonnelly County Fermanagh and spent many years in Middlesex UK until he retired back to settle in Freshford. He was a quiet and good living gentleman. Both he and his wife were great in the garden and with the flowers and plants and provided flowers for the church on a regular basis. Funeral mass took place in St.Lachtains Church, Freshford on Thursday morning last followed by burial in St.Lachtains cemetery. He is mourned by his wife Theresa, aunt, nephews, nieces and extended family to whom deepest sympathy is extended. COLIN McGREE TOURNAMENT The Colin McGree Memorial Soccer Tournament was held at the Sportsfield at Woodview recentlyt. This was the 24th year of the tournament which is held each year in remembrance of Colin who was a talented young footballer. Over 50 boys and girls took part. Captains on the day were Cian Donnelly, Marty Campion, Noah Scott, Jamie Walsh, Colin McGree, Jamie Denieffe, Evan Ryan and Michael Bergin. After the opening games the Semi finals saw Cian Donnelly’s side take on Marty Campion’s side and the second semi final saw Noah Scott’s team face Evan Ryan’s team in exciting games. The Final saw Marty Campions v Noah Scott s and Martys side came out winners on a score of 5-4 Player of the Tournament was Katleyn Dermody and Player of the match went to Bill Looby The Cup was presented to the winning caption by Liam Mcgree and Liam thanked all the kids who took part and all the parents who attended. He also paid a Big Thanks to Colin’s friends Johnny Flynn and Darren Burke who organize the tournament ever year in his memory. WELL DONE ANNE MARIE Well done to local lady Anne Marie Walsh(nee Butler ) Cooleshall, Freshford who led the Agricultural Science Association for the past year and did so with confident and pride . Ann Marie who worked for the Ulster Bank wishes the Association continued success. She takes up a new roles with Teagasc in the near future. CAMOGIE Well done but hard luck to local girl Sinead Farrell, Kilkenny Street who was on the Kilkenny Intermediate Camogie team who were defeated by Antrim in the All Ireland at Croke Park on Sunday last. Sinead was in goal and played well despite been beaten. Another Freshford/Lisdowney player Laura Hegarty was also on the team. Also playing a role as selector was another local girl Marie O’Connor, Clashacrow Congratulations to Kilkenny minor camogie team who defeated Cork in the All Ireland final recently. On the panel was local girl Claire Maher while Paula Murphy (nee Dowling) was a selector with the winning side.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

kilkennyobserver.ie

News Community & GAA Notes TIDY TOWNS Freshford tidy towns committee continue to do tremendous work around the village. With entry having gone in for the Supervalu Tidy Towns competition the committee meet each Wednesday evening at 7pm on the Green. They are always looking for helpers so if you have an hour to spare why not go along and help keep the village looking well. Clashacrow gardens Congrats to Peter and Frances Theloke Clashacrow who had their Gardens shown on the weekly TVShow recently. Some areas of the gardens were shown but there were many other areas which weren’t shown.

page and we’ll be in touch.

SOCCER With the season now started the first game of the season for Freshford Town saw the U15 boys take on Stoneyford at home on Sunday last with the local side coming out winners on a 3-2 scoreline. Scorers for Freshford Town were Cian Donnelly getting 2 and Colin McGree getting the other one. The training sessions for U8s will resume on Saturday next at the Sportsfield at Woodview from 12noon to 1pm with Gary in charge as usual. All boys from 5 to 8 years old are welcome so go along and join up. The Club are at present looking for new members to join their U9, UI10 U13 and U15 teams. Registration can be paid through the Clubforrce app or you can get in touch with the Club for further details. The clubs facebook page has all the details. As well as boys underage The Club are intended to enter girls soccer teams also in U9s and U11s . For U11 – born in 2011/2012 and for U9 those born 2013/20114. Anyone interested should get in touch with the Club on facebook page or freshfodtownfc@gmail.com Going forward the Club hope to have U9, U10, U11, U13, U15 and U17s with registration opening in the coming week or so . So keep and eye out on the Clubs facebook page for updates.

THE SROTYTELLING SERIES The Storytelling Series - Free Communications Training for Community and Voluntary Groups The Storytelling Series is an exciting FREE training series which will enable us all to feel confident about communicating our value! Public awareness is vital to maximising the work we do, and this series is all about amplifying our impact. Whether you’re a large charity or a voluntary group with limited time and no budget, this training is open to you! Pitching to Press: How to Get your Story Out There with Claire Brennan (BBC, Irish Daily Mirror, Donegal Post) | Weds, 22 September, 11.00am - 12.30pm Making Videos: Basics of Scripting & Filming with Jack Deacon (spunout.ie) | Weds, 29 September, 11.00am - 12.30pm Making Videos: Basics of Film Editing with Tommy Flavin and Kevin O’Regan (The Reelists) | Thurs, 30 September, 11am – 12.30pm Easy Graphic Design with Canva with Ronny Hermosa (Canva, Fair Trade Connection) | Weds, 13 October, 10.30am - 12noon How to Be a Spokesperson for your Organisation with Eleanor Kelly (UCD Innovation Academy, Open Society Foundations) | Weds, 20 October, 11am – 12.30pm. All workshops are delivered online and are free of charge. Any queries, please email Claire McGowran: claire@wheel.ie.

CIRCUS The circus visited Freshford last weekend after 18 months off the road. The big tent was erected on the village Green and they put on three shows on Friday, Saturday and Sunday with a good crowd attending and a long awaited treat for all the kids. Local Lotto Results: for September 6th Winning Numbers : 12, 28, 36. No Winner. Draw for 5 x € 30. Mags Cahill ( Mags Cahill ), FP ( Malachy Hogan ), Margaret Cummins (Jimmy McCormack Kilm. ) The Dream Machine ( Pat Comerford ),Brid Moylan ( James Moylan ) Jackpot Next Week September 13th : € 2,200. Draw takes place in St Leonards Hall, Dunnamaggin every Monday at 9pm. All Welcome. DUNNAMAGGIN DEVELOPMENT GROUP Islander Architects, Ciaran and Laura will be back to us on Thursday September 16th at 2.30pm to discuss ideas for Madge’s Garden. Claire Goodwin landscape architect from Kilkenny County Council will also join us. At 7pm a meeting with Workhouse Union will take place to discuss the ongoing Vision for Dunnamaggin plans. All are welcome to both. On Saturday September 25th join us and the lovely members of Adele’s Gazelles for a 5km Run (or Walk) Registration is at 9.30am in the Old School, Dunnamaggin. Bring a friend, meet others & enjoy the fresh air and Dunnamaggin countryside. There will be spot prizes and refreshments afterwards. (The run/walk is limited to adults & teens). Then on Sunday September 26th our Harvest Festival and Market takes place from 11am to 4pm with a Scarecrow competition for families and individuals to enter. More information about the Harvest Festival here next week but watch the facebook page- Dunnamaggin Community News - for updates. We are always looking for new members so if you are interested in being involved please message us on our facebook

Droichead Family Resource Centre are holding a Woman’s Group on Thursday mornings throughout Autumn. If interested in joining us for fun social activities contact Jess on 085 8564950. Kilkenny County Council Mobile Library Service The mobile library is returning, following an absence of eighteen months. On Oct 6th, Nov 3rd, Dec 1st, it will visit Kilmoganny from 3.30-4.00 and Kells from 4.10-4.30 Membership is free. Just bring ID. The staff look forward to meeting all the locals. Enquiries to Library Reception 7794160

RECOVERY COLLEGE SOUTHEAST Recovery College SouthEast is offering workshops to improve your mental health in September. All are free but you need to book. See their timetable at https://www. recoverycollegesoutheast.com/ workshops.html or call them on 086 1746330 PATTERN MAKERS Free Intercultural textile printing workshops for women in Callan, Thomastown and Ferrybank Woman with children who work from home in Callan, Thomastown and Ferrybank are invited to take part in a series of free textile printing workshops. The workshops and creative activities will be led by artist Liz Nilsson and explore pattern making and our sense of place. Workhouse Union extend a special invitation to women from the Syrian Community in County Kilkenny. Places are limited. If you are interested in taking part please contact Hannah McCormick to book a place: hannah@workhouseunion. com or on 0874497868 GOWRAN PTICH and PUTT Congratulations to Dylan Hanrahan and Tom Fitzpatrick who played in the National Strokeplay at Stackallen and Navan and to Stasia Heafey ,Chrissie Keating,Ina O Donnell ,Ann Hanrahan and Marie Power who played in Tullamore. GOWRAN AC Well done to Billy Coogan who finished 2nd in 1500m steeplechase in all Ireland schools Tailteann games yesterday. He has been selected for Irish team to compete in Derby,UK on 25th September. Billy is still eligible for this event next year. 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. An evening of prayer will take place in St. Mary’s Abbey Church, Gowran on September 17th at 7.30pm. This will be led by Bishop Denis Nulty. GOWRAN PARK Restaurant remains open. All guidelines adhered to at all times so please remember to bring photo ID /vaccination card as it is required, outdoor space is also operating, All staff are fully vaccinated, You do not have to be a member to dine with us and walk ins are accepted. Call William (0860230255) Edwina (0830345224) UGAIRISH This Kilkenny/Carlow charity organisation will be holding their fundraising walk along the barrow track from Carlow to Milford on Saturday 18th September. The walk begins at 11-00 on Saturday morning at the Town Hall Car Park, Carlow Town. Fund raising has been difficult over the past year, however Ugairish has continued to support the needy in Baale Uganda enabled through the generosity of our supporters. Our programme of providing food and medical support together with education and sanitation projects has given the people we work with and support much hope in these difficult times. We invite you will joins us on Saturday. Refreshments will be available at the picnic site at Milford Weir. Anybody with energy to spare may want to continue to walk further on the beautiful Barrow Track to Leighlinbridge, Muine Bheag, Goresbridge and further to Borris are welcome to do so. http://www.ugairishproject.org/ SPORTS ROUND-UP – MICHAEL O’LEARY Brave battling intermediates fall short Young Irelands Gowran 1-15 Thomastown 1-19 The Young Irelands Intermediates put up an encouraging performance against the defeated County finalists of the past two years Thomastown in Bennttsbridge. Thomastown managed by Henry Shefflin are among the favourites to win the Intermediate Championship, & the Young Irelands Men gave it as good as they got but ultimately came up short. Henry’s Men were quick out of the blocks & they built up a 0-4 to 0-1 lead, before Patrick Brennan fired home a goal in the 6th minute to draw them level. 0-4 to 1-1. Michael Carey pointed to edge Young Irelands ahead, but Thomastown replied with a 12th minute goal as they led 1-7 to 1-2 by the first Water Break. They extended their lead by the interval to lead 1-13 to 1-6 as further points came from the stick of Paul Holden(frees), Sean Carey & Sean Farrell. Young Irelands started the Second-Half brightly as Holden added two further frees, while Paul Delahunty struck over a sublime long range point from play. 1-14 to 1-9. Thomastown replied to restore their seven point lead (1-16 to 1-9) & they maintained their 7 point advantage until the final 5 minutes. 1-19 to 1-12. Holden kept the Scoreboard ticking over with three further pointed frees to narrow the gap, but despite Young Irelands valiant attempts, Thomastown were never in any serious danger from an early stage as they made it two wins from two. The Gowran Men now have a must win game against St. Martins in two weeks’ time to give themselves a chance of avoiding any relegation scenario. It will be a tough task against a Team who have won both their Group games. Meanwhile, there was disappointment for the Kilkenny Intermediates featuring Ciara O’Keeffe & Tiffany Fitzgerald as they lost out 2-21 to 2-13 in the All-Ireland Final after a battling performance. Kilkenny made a bright start & built up a 0-4 to 0-1 lead early on with Ciara among the pointscorers. However, Antrim grew their way into the game & once they got the first goal, they

never looked back. Despite the disappointment, the Kilkenny Intermediates can look back on a terrific year of progress, & the fact it’s a very young squad gives them strong optimism to compete for silverware in 2022. It’s a busy week ahead for the Young Irelands Juvenile Teams with 4 Teams in Championship action including three Camogie Teams playing in QuarterFinals. On Wednesday Evening, the Minor girls host Piltown in the Roinn B Championship Quarter-Finals at 6pm, while on Thursday the U-14 girls travel to Lisdowney for their Roinn D Championship Quarter-Final clash also at 6pm. Meanwhile on Sunday Morning, the U-13 Boys continue their attempts to win a League/Championship double as they travel to Thomastown to play Rower-Inistioge in the A1 Championship Semi-Final with an 11am throw-in, while also on Sunday, the U-16 Camogie girls are scheduled to host John Lockes of Callan in the Roinn A Championship Quarter-Final in Gowran with a time still to be confirmed. Major disappointment as boro minors prove too strong Despite the realistic nature of the task they faced on Monday Evening in glorious September Summer Sunshine in Gowran, there was hopes that the Young Irelands Minors could give Dicksboro a good game similar to the corrosponding League clash in June, where they lost out by 5 points in a highly entertaining contest. Unfortunately, it was clearly obvious from a very stage that they were in for a very difficult evening & that is what transpired. Dicksboro had 0-6 on the scoreboard, before Young Irelands registered a score courtesy of a pointed free from Mikey Knox in the 10th minute. However, the Boro were completely dominant in every department & they added 9 consecutive points over the next 15 minutes to build up a staggering 0-15 to 0-1 lead in the 25th minute, & it would have been an even a greater margin only for the brilliance of Young Irelands netminder Barry Dunne who pulled off a host of top class saves. The Half-Time score was 0-16 to 0-4 with Mikey Knox & Killian Carey adding pointed frees, while Daniel Manning added a point from play at the start of the Second-Half. 0-16 to 0-5. A Dicksboro goal a few minutes later confirmed their overall superior domiance, & they remained in dominant control. They outscored Young Irelands 0-11 to 0-4 afterwards - 0-8 to 0-1 in Final Quarter - as Knox & Carey added further points, but it was all one way traffic & Dicksboro who now play James Stephens in the Minor Semi-Final will take an awful lot of beating in their attempts to win three-in-a-row. UPMC Sports Medicine Offical Health Partner of Dicksboro GAA Club Dicksboro GAA Club are delighted to announce UPMC Sports Medicine as

Official Health Partner of the club with immediate effect. Providing high-quality healthcare in the Ireland since 2006, UPMC’s operations in Ireland now include UPMC Whitfield Hospital in Waterford, UPMC Kildare Hospital in Clane and UPMC Aut Even Hospital. Outpatients care available at the UPMC Carlow Outreach Centre, UPMC Hillman Cancer Centre radiotherapy locations at UPMC Whitfield and in Cork and The UPMC Sports medicine Clinic at WIT Arena and the UPMC Concussion Network. The goal of being a Health Partner is to support and compliment the work being done by the clubs medical team and offer access to express diagnostics and consultant services if required. It also provides access to specialists in the area of concussion, sports medicine and other medical specialties. UPMC Sports Medicine aims to ensure that players of Dicksboro GAA have access to world class sports medicine services that will support player welfare. Benefits of being a Health Partner of UPMC Sports Medicine. Players from Dicksboro GAA can gain access to UPMC Sports Medicine services and clinical specialists to assist in optimising performance, injury prevention and rehabilitation protocols throughout the season. · UPMC Sports Medicine at WIT Arena hosts a suite of advanced equipment and is supported by Physiotherpay services in UPMC Aut Even – paired with experienced clinicians – to offer Dicksboro GAA players best in class sports medicine care. · Building on UPMC’s established international Sports Medicine Programme, an array of multidisciplinary support services will ensure to cater for all screening, rehabilitation and performance pathways. · Suitable packages for preseason medicals, physical screening and fitness testing can be provided based on the team requirements to include 1. Health screening reviewed with UPMC Sports physician. 2. Cardiovascular and Lung function analysis including VO2 Max, FEV and FVC to monitor exercise capacity and performance parameters. 3. Blood profiling analysis. 4. ImPACT baseline concussion testing, evaluation of normal neurocognitive function. 5. Cardiac screening program with ECG and echocardiogram if required. 6. Body composition metrics and movement analysis. 7. Strength and endurance testing using our advanced Biodex Isokinetic System 8. Evaluation of power, using force plates and WATT bike testing. 9. Endurance evaluation with shutt We are delighted to welcome UPMC to Palmerstown and look forward to working with them in the years ahead. Our partnership is an excellent fit for Dicksboro GAA Club. Health and wellness are an integral part of UPMC’s mission, as they are of key importance to Dicksboro GAA Club.” Thanks to UPMC’s sponsorship, which will see all Juvenile Teams have UPMC Sports Medicine on all Juvenile Team Jerseys in the club DICKSBORO ONLINE SHOP Following on from our new partnership

with UPMC, we are delighted to announce Dicksboro GAA and Camogie gear can now be purchased online. 6 of our underage hurlers were present yesterday to model our new design for our 1st and 2nd strips that our now available in the link attached. You can now purchase directly from our O’neills club shop online and at Hennessy Sports our local retailer of Dicksboro products based in the Newpark Shopping Centre. Please see the link below to view the new range https://www.oneills.com/shop-byteam/gaa/ireland/dicksboro-gaa-andcamogie-club.html SENIOR HURLING The Senior Hurlers drew their second game in the League Championship v Clara on Saturday in Gowran. Both sides had chances to win this game at the end a Cillian Buckley long range effort gave both teams a share of the spoils. JUNIOR HURLING The junior hurlers had a great win over Erins Own on Sunday in Palmerstown 4-22 to 2-12. Our lads have now finished second in the Section B League and will face James Stephens in the League Final before the first round proper. MINOR HURLING A fantastic display of hurling over 65 minutes was enough for Dicksboro Minor Team to win the Kilkenny Honda Centre Roinn A 1/4 final versus Young Irelands in Gowran on Monday Evening. Next up for our lads is semi final versus James Stephans Dicksboro B team had two great championship wins v Shamrocks and St Lachtains to go into the Roinn C Semi Final. U15 HURLING Hard luck to the u15s who lost to James Stephens in the U15 Duggan Steel Roinn A Championship played on Saturday in Dunmore. Our lads gave it everything and were really unlucky to lose a tight affair by four points at the end. Well done to the players and team management who put in a great effort this year. The B team had a good championship win over O Loughlins on Thursday played in Johns Park. U13 HURLING The U13S Had a terrfic win on friday night on the kells road v O Loughlin Gaels in the Roinn A Semi Final. Both teams were well matched and this encounter was nailbiting from minute one. Our lads scored a late goal to win it by the narrowest of margins. The B and C teams had good championship games against a strong St Patricks and Blacks and Whites sides. Well done to all three teams. Club lotto Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results sept 5th Nos: 1– 5– 24 – 14 Jackpot: €4400– not won Draw Prizes – €50: mary gaffney c/o online €25 each seamus mulrooney c/o online €25 each ann earley c/o joe phelan €25 each dan o neill c/o gerry o neill Promoters prize - paddy maher, declan furlong Next week’s (sept 5th) Jackpot – €4,500 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

Pictured in a jersey presentation to John Windle of UPMC are the following, Back row left to right ,Conor O’ Grady (PRO) Davy Ryan (Players Rep), John Windle (UPMC), Eddie Holohan (Dicksboro Club Chairman) Fergal Murphy (Dicksboro Juvenile Chairman) Front row left to right , Cillian Hackett, Harry Shine, Aran Murphy, Billy Fitzpatrick, Johnny Keane, Christy

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)

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

kilkennyobserver.ie

News Sport

Golf

the third Thursday of each month. Those interested in joining the alliance should contact Emma Walsh

NOTES

CASTLECOMER GOLF CLUB Friday, September 3 saw the conclusion of this season’s Mixed Scramble. The competition was a huge success, enjoyed by long standing and new members alike. The event was an occasion where golfers could meet new people and reacquaint with those not seen for many months. Lady Captain Patricia, Committee and the lady members are most grateful to Seamie Brennan and Honoria Fogarty who organised this weekly competition. A special thanks to those who assisted them and those who participated in the event. Results: 15 1/2 net Clodagh O’ Reilly Hanna Pedini Marty O’ Shea 18 1/2 net Helen Hennessy Terri Boland Donie O’ Neill

Murty Coonan The ladies are looking forward to LVC Helen Murphy’s outing to Rosslare GC on September 25. It promises to be a memorable occasion. Millicent GC was the venue for The Granard Cup Regional Finals held on Thursday September 2. Freida Campion and Maria Downey represented the club. Both golfers thoroughly enjoyed the experience of playing in the competition and supporting NCBI. The next meeting of the Ladies Committee will be held at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, September 21. Many thanks to Honorary Secretary Nuala Mahon who gives freely of her time and ensure the lady members are informed of ongoing events. Silver Alliance ( up to 25 hcap) Outings will take place on

Supervalu Ballyragget was the generous sponsor of our ladies weekly competition. SuperValu is part of the Musgrave Group, Ireland’s largest grocery and food distributor. With 223 stores throughout Ireland, SuperValu has served the people of Ireland for over 30 years and has become a well established landmark across Irish communities. Supervalu has earned a reputation for fresh food quality, strong value offering, consistent support of local producers and the expertise and customer service across our stores. We sincerely thank Supervalu for the ongoing sponsorship and support given to the ladies at Castlecomer GC. Results: Maureen Norton 39 pts (b9) Margaret Furlong 39 pts Theresa Manning 37 pts Singles Match play and Plate competitions to be played by Sunday, September 12. Everyone at the club would like to wish Ms Anna Mai Mullins a happy and healthy retirement from her position as Post Mistress of Castlecomer Post Office. We hope to see much more of Anna Mai on the fairways at Drumgoole. Our competition last week was proudly sponsored by Miss Designer Golf. Lady Captain Patricia would like to thank the company for coming on board

and supporting our club. Miss Designer Golf is the leading lady when it comes to providing top quality women’s golf apparel at unbeatable prices. Since 2013, the company grown to become one of the premier provider of women’s golf clothing and customers come from all over the world. Miss Designer Golf carries the biggest brands in golf, including Calvin Klein, Green Lamb, Adidas, FootJoy, Puma and many more. The range has expanded quite significantly over the years, and Miss Designer Golf now offers the largest selection of ladies’ golf and activewear around catering for all shapes, sizes, seasons and tastes. So, whether you are looking for a stylish slipover, performance polo or a waterproof pants, you are covered. Results: Thereas Manning (ph 20) 39 pts Maureen Norton (ph19) 37 pts Breda Phelan (ph15) 36 pts (b9) 9 Holes Terri Hackney (ph 27) 23 pts Our lady members are looking forward to the outing to Rosslare GC on September 25. It promises to be a wonderful occasion. We wish Lady Vice Captain Helen Murphy an enjoyable and memorable day, and we thank her for organising the event. All eyes were on the Solheim Cup last week and what a performance by the European Team especially Leona Maguire. She gave a master class in the game of golf. Let*s hope many young girls will be inspired by her stellar ability and follow in her footsteps.

Results of the Two Person Team event 11th & 12th September (Sponsored by Lawler Builders, Athy) 1st. Matt Dooley (25) Brendan Dooley (7) 46 pts 2nd Colm Meagher (12) Catriona Meagher (31) 44 pts CALLAN GOLF CLUB Results 18 Hole S/F Tuesday 1st Miriam Fennelly 42pts 2nd Rose Brophy 42pts 3rd Joan Phelan 41ots 9Hole Anna Corr 19 pts Patsy Murphy 18 pts Seniors Thursday Sept 10th 1st Eileen Cuddihy 2ns Mairead Blanchfield 3rd Bridget Holohan 4th Rose Brooh Social Mixed The final evening of the Social Mixed Competition was held on Friday 10th. Great Credit goes to the organisers Shiela Kirby, Catherine Dore and Rose Brophy who did super work each Friday evening in organising this event. It is one of the most friendliest but competitive of Golf Competitions. And Friday lived up to all it was hoped to be with one of the biggest number of members taking part. The winners on the evening were 1st John Holden Ena Heron Anna Starr 2nd Tom Maher Bridget Holohan Mary D Grace The Winter Social Mixed will begin on Friday 17th at new time of 2.30 3rd Michael Grace Anne Croke Ann McEvoy Competition Results Wednesday Sept 8th O’ Dwyer

Open singles. Weather played a big role in restricting numbers but still some great scores returned especially the winner. No divisions this week due to the smaller entry. Winner Frankie Butler (25) 47 pts Runner up Eoin O’Sullivan (10) 41 pts Gross Peter Byrne (4) Visitor 33 pts Gross Sunday Sept 12th Singles Stableford Winner Sean Millea (9) 42 pts Runner up Ross Holden (1) 40 pts Gross Billy Walsh (5) 39 pts ( 34 pts gross) Upcoming Events • Next weekend sees the Ballingarry GAA classic running over Friday and Saturday. • On Sunday 19th we will be running the Monthly medal singles stroke. • We are holding a Course Development Fundraiser on 24th, 25th and 26th September. First Prize of Hotel accommodation and two Rounds of Golf in the South East. With many other Prizes on the day. Teams of Four any Combination, €20 for Visitors and €15 for Members. Booking available on the Club Web site callangolf.net or on the phone at 056-7725136 Your support of this and all our events is much appreciated. Lotto Results 9th September 2021, Numbers were 20, 29 and 32, No winners and no match two’s €30, Next Draw €850

A goal is a dream with a deadline EOIN EVERARD

Get SMART about your plan for getting fit! “I must do more this year.” That’s it. That is about as much planning as most of us put into our fitness plan every January. Then we find ourselves baffled and frustrated in April when we have neither improved our routine nor our fitness levels This year make a change. When motivation is high in January and you have time (there is always a bit of downtime at the start of January), award yourself 5 minutes to set up 2015 for success. The plan we will use for setting goals this year will be the SMART plan. This is a five point plan that has been used by both elite athletes and people just getting back into fitness to help them achieve their goals. Setting SMART goals can improve motivation and according to the Association of Applied Sports Psychology athletes that set goals and regularly monitor them are more suc-

cessful than those who don’t. In this article I will explain what SMART stands for and will then help you to set your own SMART plan for 2014. Take 10 minutes now to set up the next 365 days for success. SMART stands for the following; Specific: Get specific; you need to be as specific as possible in order to be successful with your goal setting. No more, “I’m going to do more” or “I’m going to get fitter or healthier”. That is too vague and tells us nothing about what will be achieved. You need to be as detailed as possible when setting your goal and “I’m going to get fitter by doing more” is sadly not going to cut it anymore! Instead you want to think about exactly what you hope to achieve. Would you like to run 6 miles by the summer? Would you like to lose half a stone? Is the goal to run a 5k this year in under 30 minutes? Whatever you choose you have to be specific. Measurable: The next step, very linked to being specific, is to make sure you can measure whether you have achieved your goals. There is no point making goals if we are not able to check to see

how we are doing. For weight loss it is simple but harsh, you have to first step on the scales. Face reality. What weight are you now? I would not advise weighing yourself every day but maybe every 2 weeks to check how your are progressing to losing that half a stone for example. Achievable/ Action Orientated: This is crucial. I cannot set your goal for you. You know your own body and determination. My dad is just getting back into jogging by doing 10 minutes every second day (sometimes the gaps are longer than a day!). Setting out to run a marathon in under 3 hours is not achievable. Set out goals that are challenging but are manageable. Too small a goal will not excite you and too big a goal will discourage you. I will say one thing. Don’t be afraid to fail. If you set out to run a 5k in 25 minutes and you end up running 27, as long as you tried your best you’re a success. Barely missing a goal gives you great determination to get out there and try again. Denis Waitley said it best, “ Your goal should just be out of reach but not out of sight”. The A can also stand for action orientated. The journey

of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Have bite size goals along the way to help make the big goal more manageable. For example, if you want to run 6 miles by May, then first set a goal that by the end of January you are walking 2 miles 3 times per week. By the end of February you may aim to be doing one run a week of 3 miles. By March that might be up to 4 miles with the other runs at 3 miles and so on. By breaking it up we make it manageable and maintain our enthusiasm for the end goal. Relevant: This is linked to the point above. Yes the goal has to be realistic but it also has to mean something to you. There is no point saying you want to run a 5k in 30 minutes if you have absolutely no interest in doing that. Look up an adventure race, plan a race abroad or with friends, set a strength and conditioning programme. Do something that will excite you. If you don’t really want to get fit and healthy, accept that, but don’t complain in April. We all make our own choices, choose something that excites you! Time: The last thing is that you have to set a date of when you will achieve your

goals. This is so crucial. When do you want to achieve this goal? Set the date and work backwards from that to set the smaller goals you need to achieve to give yourself the best chance of accomplishing the big goal that was set. See the example of a 6 mile race below for an example of small time set goals. I have made a sample of questions for you to answer to help you set SMART goals this year. I have filled out an example to help guide you. Every person who reads this will have different goals, but I believe that if you use a SMART approach then you give yourself the best chance of achieving a goal that is realistic and meaningful for you. Good luck. Give yourself 5 minutes and write out the answers to the questions below to get you prepared for a new year of better fitness and health. Specific: What is my aim for this year? Example: I hope to run a 6 mile race this year in under 1 hour. Measurable: How will I judge whether I have achieved my goal? Example: The Great Limerick Run is on May 6th. I will

time myself in that and see if I broke the 1 hour mark for the 6 mile run. Achievable and Action orientated: Before I begin, have I asked myself is this goal realistic and what steps will I take to achieve it? Example: I have run a 10k in 1 hour 10 minutes last year when I did not train so I believe I can do it! To achieve this goal I will run 3 times per week. I will start by running 5k a night and build it up gradually I will have a one hard run, one easy run and one long run in my schedule I will run a 5k to see if I can do that in less than 30 minutes. Relevant: Is this something I really want to achieve or am I doing it for someone else? Example: Yes I will be buzzing if I can say that I ran 6 miles in a race. If you are active at least 3 times per week and want something to keep you strong and injury free then our Beginners Sports Pilates could be perfect for you. For a free trial to see if it is right for you visit www.everardpilates.com/sportpilates

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021

Camogie news

Sport

Danielle Quigley is tackled by Catrine Dobbin

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

OUR intermediate camogs season ending in disappointment following Sunday’s defeat to Antrim in Croke Park, on a score line of 2-21 to 2-13. John Scott’s team headed to the Capital with victory in mind, but Antrim hadn’t read the Kilkenny script, and the northern ladies put on a wonderful display to run out deserved winners. The Saffrons had stars all over the pitch, but the stand-out performers were the attacking terrors of Roisin McCormick and Maeve Kelly, who contributed 14-points of the winner’s total. On the evidence of this performance, Antrim will be a fantastic addition to the senior camogie roster. The scoring got off to a fast start at headquarters with Maeve Kelly registering the first point in the opening minute. Thomastown attacker Sarah Walsh levelled matters soon after with a nice point. Not to be outdone by her clubmate, Eva Hynes then got the black and amber’s second point soon after, before Leann Fennelly’s nifty footwork found Walsh, who slotted over her second score to leave Kilkenny 0-3 0-1 ahead after just four minutes. Young Irelands Ciara O’Keefe, fresh from an eyecatching semi-final display against Meath, then pointed to give the cats a three-point lead in the fifth minute. Everything was looking rosy for the Noresiders. Things could have gotten even better had Hannah Scott’s strike on goal been a couple of inches the other side of the post. This near miss appeared to prompt Antrim into action as they quickly found their scoring groove. Loughgiel Shamrocks Roisin McCormick hit a hat-trick of points, without reply, before Saffrons captain Lucia McNaughton and a second score from Maeve Kelly left Antrim one point to the good at the first water break, 0-6 to 0-5. When play resumed, Sophie O’Dwyer hit her first score of the day from a free to draw the sides level. Dunloy midfielder Nicole O’Neill then scored, only for the reliable Eva Hynes to respond in kind, before Ballycastle’s Kelly surged through the Kilkenny defence before firing to the net, leaving Sinead Farrell no chance as Antrim took a three-point lead. From the sideline, it appeared that Antrim were going to build further on their lead, but to their credit, Kilkenny’s forwards rallied to keep their side in touch, with points from James Stephens Sophie O’Dwyer and another from Eva Hynes leaving just the minimum between the sides. The game was flowing, however neither side appeared to be capable of assuming total control. Paul McKillen’s team then produced another scoring burst, a second point from Nicole O’Neill, two more from McCormick and a lovely one from Loughgiel’s Catrine Dobbin saw the yellow’s reach the interval with a 5-point lead, 1-11 to 0-9.

Slick Saffrons claim title as cats fall short

McCormick & Kelly star in croker victory

Roisin McCormick at the final whistle

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Camogie news Roisin Phelan gets away from Roisin McCormick

Maeve Kelly awarded the player of the match award

Sophie O’Dwyer and Maria Lynn battle

As the second period got under way, Maeve Kelly hit a lovely point to extend Antrim’s lead. Kilkenny appeared to becoming more reliant on the accuracy of placed balls from corner-forward O’Dwyer, who knocked over a couple more. In what was to prove the most crucial period of the game, the match exploded just ahead of the second water break. Sophie O’Dwyer stunned the Antrim contingent with a wonder strike from a 20 metre free, raising a green flag to bring hope to the Kilkenny faithful. John Scott’s side now trailed by four. In what was to prove to be the sign of champions, the Ulster side responded with points from those twin terrors McCormick and Kelly along with their full-forward line partner Dobbin. Any hope of Kilkenny comeback was well and truly crushed when a wonderful Antrim move resulted in McCormick finding her Loughgiel clubmate Dobbin, who rifled an unstoppable shot to the back of the

net to raise her sides second green flag of the day. Try as they might, the stripey-women couldn’t claw back the deficit. Further scores from O’Dwyer, Therese Donnelly and a late consolation major from Mooncoin’s Sarah Crowley brought some respectability to the score line, but by this stage the result was beyond doubt. The final score of the game came from Nicole O’Neill, as she hit her third point of the day. Jack McGrath was going to the Glens. There was to be no silver lining for our camogs this time. SCORERS FOR KILKENNY: S O’Dwyer 1-5(0-4fs); S Crowley 1-0; S Walsh, E Hynes 0-2 each; C Phelan, C O’Keeffe, D Quigley, T Donnelly 0-1 each KILKENNY: S Farrell, N Leahy, R Phelan, C Murphy, S Crowley, L Fennelly, T Fitzgerald, L Hegarty, C Phelan, E Hynes, S Walsh, C O’Keeffe, S O’Dwyer, H Scott, D Quigley. Subs: J Leahy for Hegarty (36), T Donnelly for Quigley inj (43), S O’Keeffe for Fitzgerald (46), C Dowling for Scott (55), R O’Keeffe for C O’Keeffe (57) SCORERS FOR ANTRIM: R McCormick 0-9(4fs); M Kelly 1-5; C Dobbin 1-2; N O’Neill 0-3; L McNaughton, A Magill 0-1 each ANTRIM: C Graham, C Drain, N Donnelly, M Lynn, C Patterson, C Conlon, M Connolly, L McNaughton, N O’Neill, M Kelly, A Boyle, A Magill, R McCormick, C Laverty, C Dobbin. Subs: A Connolly for Laverty (38), K Carey McAleese for Magill (50), S Devlin for Patterson (60), L McKenna for Boyle (60+1), K McKillop for M Connolly (60+1) REFEREE: Conor Quinlan (Galway)

>> SHERRY SAYS... Manager John Scott

Lucia McNaughton lifts the Jack McGrath Cup

AS the curtain comes down on the inter-county camogie season, there was to be no Jack Mc Grath Cup residing in Kilkenny. I think it’s fair to say, and John Scott has alluded to it since Sunday’s game, that our camogs, didn’t play to their potential in the final. It may be a case of if’s, but’s and maybes, but the bottom line is that the winners were thoroughly deserving of their victory. Antrim will now take a seat at the top table of camogie, and if their final performance is anything to go by, they will be an excellent addition to the ‘elite’ section. Not many counties will relish travelling to Dunloy, or Loughgiel to tackle the Saffrons. In Roisin McCormick and Maeve Kelly, they had two wonderful attacking performers. Kelly finished the day with a tally of 1-5 – all from play, her partner in crime, McCormick 0-9. Throw Catrine Dobbin’s 1-2 into the mix, along with midfielder Nicole O’Neill’s 0-3, and you begin to see the foundations for this victory. Enough about Antrim. John Scott, while disappointed at his side’s performance, will take great heart from the developments his team has made this season. Sophie O’Dwyer, along with Danielle Quigley, Eva Hynes and Ciara O’Keefe have all shown up well. More is certainly expected next season.

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Camogie news

Sport

Mary O’Connell bursts through wexford defence

Camogs story a case of what might have been BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

WHEN John Scott’s side left the Croke Park stage on Sunday past, it brought to a close the inter-county camogie season. As the dust settles, the players and management teams will take stock and review what has gone before. We should probably start with our senior team this week. Brian Dowling’s charges came into the action as AllIreland champions, with serious aspirations of claiming backto-back O’Duffy cups. It’s not an easy feat to achieve, but the O’Loughlin Gaels clubman will have known that his panel was capable of doing just that. The training ground for championship action is the league, and our seniors certainly laid solid foundations in the Littlewoods Division one section. Victories over Dublin and Offaly were workman-like if not spectacular. Clara’s Mary O’Connell one of the newer additions to show her worth in the early rounds. Topping the group set-up, a quarter-final clash with Limerick in Birr. In hindsight, the Noresiders bid for a first league title since 2018 should probably have ended that day. Limerick should have won that game. They probably would have; had it not have been for two magnificent saves from Piltown stopper Aoife Norris. Coupled with two Miriam Walsh assists for goals, Kilkenny just about got over the line against a younger and hungry Treaty County side. The league semi-final saw Tipp roll into Nowlan Park. Again, warning signs emerged. Bill Mullany’s side brought a championship style intensity to the game and dominated physically for large periods of the game. In Cait Devane, they had a wonderful attacking talent and although she finished on the losing team, her tally of 0-11, we will be hearing a lot more from her in the seasons ahead. It took a 2-8 salvo from Windgap’s Denise Gaule and an uncharacteristic error from All-Star keeper Aine Slattery to turn the tie in favour of the black and amber. Final berth secured – and guess who awaited – yes... Galway. Headquarters staged the Littlewoods League final, and for good measure, 3,000 spectators attended.

Special K - It was great to see KP back

Again, Dowling’s side had to dig deep and turn around another deficit. Trailing at the interval, Kilkenny hit 1-5 without reply, meaning the 3-point Galway lead was gone, our cats lead by five. When your goalkeeper is player of the match, that generally indicates defensive weakness. Aoife Norris was called upon again, several times to deny the tribeswomen. When the final whistle sounded, Kilkenny were crowned league champions. Winning at Croker is a good habit to get into and no doubt this group had designs on returning to the Capital at the business end of the season.

DEFENDING O’DUFFY Sealing the league title was ideal preparation for the championship season. First up was the Banner in Sixmilebridge. A solid start to their O’Duffy defence saw Dowling’s team run out 0-22 to 0-16 winners. Next stop on the road was Cusack Park and a game against Westmeath. Routine enough you would have thought. Darren McCormack’s side clearly hadn’t read the script. Trailing by 4-points at half-time, Brian Dowling rung the changes. The stripeywomen would eventually win out on a score line of 2-17 to 1-11, but that didn’t stop the cats bainisteoir describing his side’s performance as the worst of his tenure. A timely reminder ahead of Galway’s visit to Noreside. Both Kilkenny and Galway knew that they would qualify for the closing stages of the championship, but the direct route to a semi-final would mean winning the final group game in Callan. Despite playing with 14 players for 45 minutes in the battle to top their group and so secure an automatic semi-final place, Galway edged out a thrilling game with Kilkenny at John Locke Park, Galway secured a huge psychological blow against their main rivals as they overcame the dismissal of corner-forward Catherine Finnerty to pick up the away win by the minimum, 1-13 to 0-15. The defeat saw Kilkenny hit the road again, this time to the banks of the Lee, where they would face-off against

Camogie Season Review

Minor success the major plus of season

Denise Gaule - The ‘Windgap Wonder’

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Camogie news Grace Walsh battling hard

Miriam Walsh outnumbered, but never outfought

Defensive Diamond - Davina Tobin

St Martins Sharp=shooter Katie Nolan

The Right Man! Manager Brian Dowling

neighbours Wexford in a battle to reach the semi-final stage and keep the dream of reclaiming the O’Duffy alive. Páirc Uí Chaoimh welcomed our senior camogs, and this was probably one of the most convincing score lines of their championship season. The young Wexford team never really got grips with their more experienced opponents, and our ladies racked up an impressive total of 3-19. Once again, Denise Gaule was instrumental and almost acted like an NFL quarter-back, dictating play and setting the tempo for those around her. As they boarded the bus home, thoughts no doubt had turned to the upcoming semifinal tussle with Cork. All roads would lead to Croker again, but this time it was championship. It was a semi-final. While many had earmarked Kilkenny as favourites for the semi-final tie at headquarters, the rebels desire to reach their first final in three years was evident. It was a rip-roaring affair, that could have gone either way, but over the course of the near 65 minutes, Cork probably just about deserved

their victory. Paudie Murray’s team were five ahead at the short whistle. Cork were playing with a great desire, hunger and intensity. Kilkenny were in trouble. Despite going to the well again during the second half, Dowling’s side couldn’t drag themselves over the line, despite Cork having the influential Orla Cronin red-carded following an altercation with Grace Walsh. On the final whistle, Cork erupted. Kilkenny plunged in despair. The cats grip on the O’Duffy had been released. I think it’s fair to say that over the course of the season, our senior ladies never quite managed a complete 60-minute performance. Like we have said in reports throughout this season, warning signs were possibly there. Following the defeat to Cork, Brian Dowling spoke of possible changes ahead, let’s hope that he remains at the helm next season, as I believe he is best placed to extract the best from this panel of highly talented camogs. The future is bright, and it can be black and amber.

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St. Canices Credit Union Kilkenny Senior Hurling League Group B

Sport

James Stephens go top, but early days yet JAMES Stephens defensive unit was the difference between the two sides, as James Stephens went top of the St. Canices Credit Union Kilkenny Senior Hurling League Group B table with a three point win over Ballyhale Shamrocks. After a some what edgy start in wet conditions Ballyhale Shamrocks went two points clear after points by TJ Reid (f) and Joe Cuddihy, before points by Tadhg O’ Dwyer and Cian Kenny brought things back to an even par. A TJ Reid pointed free from the 65mt was countered with an excellent point by Luke Scanlon, just before Owen Cody raised a green flag to put some daylight between the sides. Ballyhale Shamrocks pushed on from this and another free by TJ Reid had Ballyhale Shamrocks looking prominent, but with Luke Scanlon causing problems for Ballyhale Shamrocks the sides only managed to swap wides. With good quality hurling and with even exchanges the sides remained level into the tenth minute before TJ Reid opened a gap in the scores with another pointed free. Ballyhale Shamrocks looked the more eager side up to now and had kept James Stephens scoreless for seven minutes until Eoin Guilfoyle added a pair of points from frees and Luke Scallon a point from play brought the match back to a two point game. Ronan Corcoran slotted over a point to bring the score to 1:6 — 0:6 at the water break. After the break Luke Scallon started causing problems for Ballyhale Shamrocks, and during this time Eoin Guilfoyle (f) and TJ Reid (f) exchanged points, TJ Reid’s going over off the upright. Eoin Guilfoyle added another pointed free and at this stage James Stephens started to run at the Ballyhale Shamrocks defense with

Scallon showing . James Stephens were rewarded with two points, both frees by Eoin Guifoyle. Owen Cody broke Eoin Guilfoyle’s scoring run with a point before Eoin Guilfoyle put over his seventh point of the day. Evan Shefflin pointed a 65m and Luke Scallon exchanged points with Brian Cody to bring the score at half time to Ballyhale Shamrocks 1: 10 to James Stephens 0:12. The second half started with a free by TJ Reid pointed from the half way line which was immediately countered by a pointed free by Eoin Guilfoyle. Colin Fennelly was stopped when he was goal bound, earning Niall Brassil a yellow card. An additional point by TJ Reid on 35minutes extended Ballyhale Shamrocks narrow lead and with both sides equally matched and neither side allowing the other room to maneuver, a point by Niall Brassil and a free by Eoin Guilfoyle on his own 65mt two meters in from the touch line brought the scores level. Hard work by James Stephens gave them the advantage and with the tension upped they created enough space to score three unanswered points and take a two point lead. Ballyhale Shamrocks upped their own effort and good interaction between their midfield and forward lines saw a Brian Cody point from a 65mt and two pointed frees by TJ Reid level the scores again. A disputed point which was excellently taken by William Spencer gave James Stephens the lead. Then on forty eight minutes a Eoin Guilfoyle point was the start of James Stephens moving away from Ballyhale Shamrocks . Owen Cody pulled a point back for Ballyhale Shamrocks to make it a one point game, but James Stephens appeared to be getting the upper hand and it was seen that a strong finish was going to be needed for Ballyhale

Shamrocks with five minutes to go. Strong pressure by James Stephens led to a Jeffrey Coyne point and with James Stephens defensive unit holding so strong Ballyhale Shamrocks were finding it hard to create openings. The clock ran out with TJ Reid and Eoin Guilfoyle both scoring two points each from frees. A final flurry saw a brilliant save by James Stephens goal keeper Sean Manogue from TJ Reid after a pass from Coiln Fennelly .The resulting 65mt dropped into the square by Evan Shefflin was cleared to the sound of the final whistle leaving a score line James Stephens 0:24 Ballyhale Shamrocks 1:18 Scorers. James Stephens ; Eoin Guilfoyle (0:14 14fr), Luke Scanlon (0:3),Cian Kenny(0:2),Micky Drennan, Niall Brassil, Tadgh O’Dwyer, Jeffery Coyne, William Spencer .(0:1) Ballyhale Shamrcks; TJ Reid(0:11 0:10 fr)Eoin Cody (1:2),Brian Cody(0:2),Evan Shefflin,Ronan Corcoran,Joe Cuddihy(0:1) Teams. James Stephens. Sean Manogue, Luke Hicky, Diarmuid Cody,Shane Dunoghue, Niall Delaney,Niall Brassil, Niall Mullins, William Spencer, Luke Scanlon, Matthew Ruth,Tadhg O,Dwyer,David Hennessy,Cian Kenny,Mikey Drennan, Eoin Guilfoyle. Used Subs;Jeffery Coyne,Matthew McWhey, Ben Lawler. Ballyhale Shamrocks.Dean Mason,KevinMullen, Joey Holden,Brian Butler,Darragh Corcoran,Richie Reid, Evan Shefflin,Ronan Corcoran,TJ Reid,Adrian Mullen, Brian Cody,Eoin Reic, Colin Fennelly,Joe Cuddihy. Used Subs;Liam Barron,Patrick Hearne, Gavin Butler.

All images: Danny Lahart

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St. Canices Credit Union Kilkenny Senior Hurling League Group B

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Hurling matters

Sport

Liam on his mind... Cody needs AllIreland title now, more than ever

What is your earliest memory of hurling with Tullaroan? When we went to Tullaroan Senior Training as 10 year olds in the early 90s, Danny Norton use to give out tea and biscuits. Even though the senior players were the most important recipients, he always looked after us first. He was a great man. Declan Connolly brought this beautiful bread with icing on the top. The spirit was great around the hurling field. They were great times on cold October nights.

A 24th term in charge for BC

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

FOLLOWING Monday night’s County board meeting, it was announced that Brian Cody would again take charge of the Kilkenny senior hurling team for the 2022 season. PRO Paul Fitzgerald released the following statement after proceedings had finished. 13th September, 2021 Press Release – Inter- County Hurling Managers 2022 Following a meeting of the Kilkenny GAA County Board on Monday night, Brian Cody has been ratified as Kilkenny Senior Manager for the 2022 season. James McGarry, Martin Comerford and Conor Phelan will be selectors for the season ahead. At U-20 Derek Lyng has been ratified as manager for the season ahead, with Peter Barry, Michael Rice and Peter Donovan on board as selectors. At U-17 Niall Bergin has been ratified as manager. A management team to assist Niall will confirmed at a later date. Kilkenny GAA would like to take this opportunity to wish all our management teams and panels the best of luck in the season ahead. With the ratification, the James Stephens clubman will surpass Meath legend Sean Boylan’s tenure as the Royal’s boss. Following the last two

Not Walking Away... Brian Cody

– QUESTIONS & ANSWERS How important is club championship to young hurlers? It’s a privilege. It’s a test. And when you pass that test there is no better feeling.

Cody continues cats’ quest championships, there had been murmurings of discontent in some quarters, the collapse to Waterford in 2020 and the extra time defeat to Cork this season, coupled with the county’s inability to challenge Limerick, the reasons cited for those in the ‘time to change’ camp. There may be some support for change, but think about it – do you want to be the manager to replace the living legend that is Brian Cody? It’s possibly akin to stepping into Alex Ferguson’s shoes, and we know how that went. In the media, online and in print, names are now being bandied about – Heny Shefflin, Eddie Brennan, Michael Fennelly, to name but three. Former players, teammates and pundits have all had their say – but I imagine the County Board would prefer if the manager called time himself, rather than someone assuming the role of Alan Sugar in ‘The Apprentice’ and delivering the punchline. When Kilkenny Chairman John Healy appointed Cody

TOMMY WALSH

Any pre match rituals? I always stay busy the day before a game and the day of a game.

on November 16th 1998 to take over from Kevin Fennelly, little did the hurling world know the success that would follow, or the period that Cody’s reign would span and continue to do so. A winner as a player, both at schools, club and county level, it was inevitable that Cody would improve Kilkenny when he took the job. But by God, I don’t believe for a minute that the honours gained with Brian at the helm could have been imagined in our wildest dreams. Let’s break it down. 11 (ELEVEN) All-Irelands. 10 (TEN) League titles. 17 (SEVENTEEN) Leinster titles. That’s just a brief summary of the majors. But as we know, that’s all history. Liam McCarthy has not resided in Noreside since 2015. Let’s face it, when push comes shove, it’s all about Liam. Cody was appointed with the clearest of mandates – bring Liam home. That’s what the Kilkenny faithful demand, it’s what they expect. There’s no doubt that the

Treaty County are Cody’s cats of the late noughties. They are dominant. They are physically superior. They have a real bond as a team. They have a sprinkling of stars. When Cody took over in 1998, the county’s last AllIreland title had been in 1993. That unthinkable drought was ended in the Milennium year. It’s certainly a tall order to reclaim Liam in ‘22, but if the black and amber fall short next season, life without Liam will extend to seven years, and that will mean the longest separation from the top prize since the spell between 1983 and 1992. Cody’s task as he prepares for 2022 will be to win the AllIreland. Closing the gap and getting closer to Limerick may not suffice. Semifinals are not the holy grail down Kilkenny way. The natives are restless. It remains to be seen if this is the last dance for Brian Cody.

Who has been your toughest hurling opponent to date? Ben O Connor from Newtownshandrum and Cork. He was first and foremost a fierce competitior. To win a ball off him you would have to be at your best. After that he had great speed and skill.

He produced big performances for both club and county on the biggest stages. I never marked Eoin Kelly from Tipperary. I was lucky enough to play on a St.Kierans Team with him. When he arrived in Kierans in 4th year, it was like Ronaldo coming back to Manchester Unitied. We had heard great stories about him before arriving and to show his quality, I felt he was even better than the stories we had heard. Who do you look up to playing hurling? I looked up to our own club men, Bill Hennessy, Liam Keoghan and Liam Simpson. They showed us all the characteristics to succeed at the top. Skill, Fitness, Dedication, Bravery and they gave us great encouragement as youngsters at the start of our careers. What was the best hurling game you ever played? The best hurling game I played in was either the 2009 All Ireland Hurling Final vs Tipperary or the 2020 Club All Ireland Final vs Fr O Neills. Both were thrillers. But my favourite was the county final in 2019. Jimmy Coogan instilled an incredible culture in the club.We couldn’t allow emotion come in to it until after the whistle was blown, there was a job to do. It was an incredible evening, to be champions at last. What made it so great was that it didn’t feel like we won the championship as players, a team or a panel. It felt like we won it as a parish. Coming up to the latter stages, half the parish were in the team meetings. This wasn’t the norm but we knew that to finally become champions, we needed everyone. After a game of racquetball and a chat with Ray Keogh the night we lost the league final, he pointed out

one area we needed to improve as forwards in the coming championship. Ray wasn’t a hurler but he was a Tullaroan man and it was a massive help, and showed the importance of everyone.

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Kilkenny & District Soccer League

Fort Rangers on top despite Evergreens impressive display

Fort Rangers: Jim Nugent Snr, Robbie McCarthy, David Forristal, John Cahill, Dion Fitzpatrick, David Kenny, Stephen McKenna, Chris Keane, Eoin Burke, Emmet Nugent, Mick O Neill. Subs: Tony Moran, Dylan Walsh, Jim Nugent Jnr, Aidan O Sullivan, Joe Sinnott, Morgan Thomas, Kenny Morris, Charlie Moran, Roy Cullen. LEFT: Evergreen C: Vinny O Grady, Dylan Smithwick, Richie Brennan, Gerry Walsh, Steven Thompson, Sean Lowery, Jeff Kealy, Stephen Dowd, James Kearney, Patrick Leahy. Subs: Adrian Kealy, Colin Walsh, Fran McShea, Jack McAuliffe.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

EVERGREEN C 1 FORT RANGERS 3 THE first league outing for both these sides took place last Sunday morning and those who went to watch were treated to a good game played by two sides playing a nice brand of football. The first twenty minutes were quite even with each side sussing each other out. The hosts took the lead on 25 minutes when good play out on the left saw a great cross headed superbly to the net by James Kearney. Rangers struck back almost immediately however with Emmet Nugent finishing from close range following good approach work from Eoin Burke. The rest of the first half was end to end with neither goalkeeper unduly troubled. The visitors started the second half on the front foot and had a goal disallowed for offside on fifty minutes. It didn’t take long for the early second half dominance to count, and Rangers took the lead when great teamwork saw Emmet

Nugent find Mick O Neill in the penalty area and the ex: East End player finished with aplomb. The visitors continued to dominate and went close again when Stephen McKenna fired over, again after excellent approach work lead to a corner. Rangers made a triple substitution on sixty eight minutes and within three minutes they had a third. One of the introduced players,Tony Moran finished to the net from 18 yards, leaving the hosts with a mountain to climb. They pushed on looking to pull one back, and James Kearney, who was a threat all day, forced a fine save from Jim Nugent from a free kick. Rangers continued on the front foot, but they couldn’t extend their lead before the finish. This was a good performance by Fort who will be hoping to get back to the Premier Division with the squad they now have. Evergreen C were quite impressive and on this showing can look forward to a good season ahead.

NAME: JAMES KELLY CLUB: FREEBOOTERS POSITION: MANAGER FAVOURITE LOCAL PLAYER (EXCLUDING YOUR OWN CLUB PAST 15 YEARS): JOHN O’HARA FAVOURITE PREMIERSHIP TEAM: MAN UTD FAVOURITE GOALKEEPER: PETER SCHMEICHEL FAVOURITE STRIKER: RONALDO (BRAZILIAN) FAVOURITE WORLD PLAYER: CRISTIANO RONALDO FAVOURITE WORLD MANAGER: ALEX FERGUSON FAVOURITE OTHER SPORT: HURLING FAVOURITE FILM: SIR ALEX FERGUSON NEVER GIVE IN FAVOURITE FOOD: BANGERS AND MASH FAVOURITE DRINK: BUDWEISER/ ROCKSHORE

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Picture special

Rás na mBan Ireland’s premier women’s stage race

t u o b A Out &

WITH

y n n a D art Lah

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Picture special

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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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News

Memoriams/Miracle Planning notices prayers

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL I, Alan Rowe intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning permission for a change of house type, and all associated site works, to the previously granted planning permission Ref. No P. 17/833, at Coontraght, Cuffesgrange, 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. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

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The Kilkenny Observer are delighted to announce that we are now an approved newspaper to publish planning applications covering the entire county of Kilkenny.

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

PADDY DAWSON 20TH ANNIVERSARY

In loving memory of May and Paddy, late of 34 Collins Park, Callan, Co. Kilkenny, whose anniversaries occur at this time. Sadly missed along life’s way Quietly remembered everyday No longer in our lives to share But in our hearts, you are always there Sadly missed by your loving sons, daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday 19th September at 11.00am in the Church of the Assumption, Callan

PETER GAULE 20TH ANNIVERSARY

In loving memory of Peter Gaule, late of 3 Kenealy Avenue whose anniversary occurs at this time.

As each day dawns We think of you As each night falls We pray for you And throughout our lives No matter where In our hearts, You are always there.

A butterfly came floating by and I thought I knew its face It landed just in front of me and spread its wing of lace As it winked and flew away I’m sure I heard it whisper I’m with you ever day

From your friends Des and Carmel

A prayer to the Blessed Virgin

MAY DAWSON 10th Anniversary

Loved and remembered always by Gerry and Marian

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.D.M

St. Anthony Prayer,

O Holy St. Anthony gentlest of Saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures, made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Encouraged by this thought, I implore you to obtain for me (request). O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms. The gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Amen M.B

(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

The Miracle Prayer

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 September 2021