Kilkenny Observer 18th October 2024

Our new nature reserve

State to purchase 67 hectares of land in Co. Kilkenny

A new nature reserve is coming our way in Co Kilkenny, according to an announcement by the Government. The State is to purchase just under 67 hectares (165 acres) of land within and adjacent to the Cullahill Mountain Special Area of Conservation.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) will

acquire the land on behalf of the State, and it will be designated as the county’s newest nature reserve, Gale’s Hill Nature Reserve.

The new parkland will be the fifth nature reserve in Co. Kilkenny. The others are Ballykeeffe Wood Nature Reserve, Fiddown Island Nature Reserve, Garryricken Woods Nature Reserve and Kyledo-

Kilkenny’s Leia wins €24,000 scholarship

Kilkenny Student Leia Hill has been awarded a Naughton Foundation Scholarship worth €24,000 at a recent ceremony in the Trinity Business School in Dublin. The award was presented by founding patrons of the Naughton Foundation, Dr Martin Naughton, and his wife Carmel, who were joined by An Taoiseach Mr Simon Harris [all pictured] to present winning students with their awards.

Leia Hill, a former student of Kilkenny College, has  accepted a place studying Mechatronic Engineering at Dublin City University.

Since its establishment in 2008, Naughton Scholarships worth over €6 million have been awarded to more than 450 outstanding students.

Leia joined 37 exceptional Irish students who were awarded third level scholarships towards their studies in the areas of engineering, science, technology, and maths.

The prize winner’s former secondary school Kilkenny College was awarded a prize of €1,000 towards their school’s science facilities, for their support of their winning student.

hir Wood Nature Reserve.

Announcing the plans at an event in Kilkenny City, Minister of State for Nature Malcolm Noonan described the site as a “haven for wildlife” and “a rare and precious gem”.

He said: “It is home to nationally important speciesrich grassland habitats, and features an amazing selec-

tion of wild native plants, rare invertebrates like the Marsh Fritillary Butterfly and unique fungi, such as waxcap mushrooms, as well as a host of bird species.

“At a time when 30% of our semi-natural grasslands have been lost in the past 10 years, this represents a hugely valuable investment,” he said.

Minister Noonan said the

site had been managed in a low-intensity, “traditional manner” for many years and had not been subject to “agricultural improvement” through the use of artificial fertilisers or re-seeding.

“As such, it is my hope that it will be an opportunity for the state to demonstrate how farmland can be managed for nature,” he said.

Cash, once more, will be king!

Finance Minister Jack Chambers has outlined to Cabinet that under the new National Payment strategy all Government departments and bodies under their aegis will have to accept cash or facilitate cash payments.

The minister told Cabinet colleagues that cash remained the preferred form of payment for many people, particularly older people, and it was important they contin-

ued to be able to use it in their day-to-day lives.

The strategy also sets out that any future contracts agreed between Government departments and their agencies with third parties which seek payment from the public must also include cash acceptance or facilitation.

The Department of Transport had to step in last year to clarify that the NCT must continue to accept cash after

the test’s operator announced that it would be going cashless.

Earlier this year, the Mater Private also defended the card-only policy in its restaurant, which is used by many elderly visitors and patients to its central Dublin hospital.

The question of cash came under the political spotlight in recent months as the Government announced it would legislate to protect its use in

Telling it like it is. And with no

certain settings, with pharmacies and shops selling groceries understood to be the most likely businesses targeted.

Cabinet will also be told that legislation at an EU level is also being progressed on mandatory cash acceptance and a key focus of the National Payments Strategy is to inform all sectors of the economy of the new rules coming in this area.

The strategy is separate from

Access to Cash legislation, which is being progressed and focuses on there being a minimum number of ATMs in towns and villages across the country.

The area of fraud prevention and the establishment of a cross sectoral anti-fraud forum consisting of online platforms, telecommunications firms and financial service providers is also contained in the new plan.

“I have no doubt that it will provide a wonderful resource for the local community, as well as for wildlife enthusiasts from near and far.”

Mr Noonan also confirmed funding for works to improve public access and safety at Ballykeeffe Nature Reserve, an oak-ash woodland located 12 kilometres from Kilkenny City.

Rinuccini takes top gong in wine awards

Kilkenny’s Ristorante Rinuccini has won the much-coveted Georgina Campbell 2024 Wine Experience of the Year Award.  The awards were presented by leading food and travel writer, Georgina Campbell and renowned chef Richard Corrigan at a gala event in Dublin.

Georgina Campbell said of Ristorante Rinuccini:

“Established in 1989 by Antonio and Marion Cavaliere, this well-known restaurant is in a semibasement in the impressive terrace opposite Kilkenny Castle, at the beginning of what is now known as the medieval mile.

“It is Kilkenny’s longest established Italian restaurant and, despite a recent extension, it fills quickly such is its enduring popularity. Still very much a family affair, with Antonio and Marian’s son Riccardo and his wife Orla also involved in the business and, as with many of the best restaurants, Rinuccini is a multi-faceted gem and the secrets of its success include consistently excellent classic flavour-focused Italian cooking of fresh, mainly local, ingredients, together with great service and outstanding value for money.

“All of which make it one of Ireland’s best Italian restaurants – and it has a wine list to match.”

For the little children Santa Claus forgot

Fresh from the success of Team Ireland in Paris earlier this year, TV sports presenter, mum, author and all-round good sport, Jacqui Hurley has picked up the baton for Team Hope and is calling on families, schools, businesses and communities across Kilkenny to join in the Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal.

Since 2010, the Appeal has delivered 2.5 million shoeboxes to children in countries across Eastern Europe and Africa who are experiencing poverty. These shoeboxes, filled with essential items as well as something fun, are lovingly created by people all across the country.  They are often the only gift these children receive.

Jacqui Hurley said: “Let’s get together and bring hope and joy to as many children as possible. It’s so easy to get involved and each year this simple act of kindness, filling a shoebox with gifts to bring a smile to a child’s face, lets these children know that they are in the heart and minds of the people of Ireland.”

To get involved, simply think about who your gift is for – a boy or girl aged between 2-14, wrap a shoebox in colourful, bright wrapping paper and be sure to include at least one item from the four Ws:

· Something to write with.  Perhaps include copybooks, pens or colouring pencils.

·  Something to wear. Maybe a hat, scarf and gloves, warm woolly socks or a t-shirt.

·  Something to wash with.  A lovely bar of wrapped soap, a facecloth, some toothpaste and a toothbrush.

·  Something wow. Think of a toy or game that will bring a smile to a child’s face –maybe a puzzle or doll or a toy car or soft toy.

Pop a Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal label on the front, include €5, close the lid and secure with an elastic band. If finding a shoebox is tricky, you can buy flat pack boxes in Dealz stores nationwide or, build a box online at teamhope.ie/ shoeboxappeal.

Shoeboxes should be dropped off at one of hundreds of drop-off points nationwide, or at your local Dealz store by November 10. Alternatively, you can build a box online at https://www. teamhope.ie/christmasshoebox-appeal/take-partonline/.

* Follow Team Hope on Facebook at www.facebook. com/team.hope.ireland

Boxing clever: Daisy Daisy-Bow Browne (8) and Matthew Harper (7) with Jacqui Hurley

New pension has hidden taxes

Changes made in the Finance Bill could see people who are signed into the new mandatory pension scheme facing a tax shock.

The last-minute change to the law underpinning autoenrolment has been described by a pensions expert as “sneaky” and has the potential to mean those drafted into the

scheme could end up paying more tax when they retire than people with other forms of pension.

The new auto-enrolment pension scheme is to be called My Future Fund and is due to start from the end of September next year.

The scheme has been 20 years in the planning and is

Flood shock for one in 20 homes

One in 20 homes and business premises are having difficulties getting flood insurance, with insurers either refusing or limiting cover, or charging extremely high premiums.

The Central Bank, which conducted the research, said the problem currently affecting 100,000 properties was going to get worse as climate change increases the frequency and ferocity of floods.

It has measured what it calls the “flood protection gap”, the difference between the cost of the damage caused by flooding and the portion covered by insurance.

set to benefit up to 800,000 workers who are without pension coverage. These are people who would have only the State contributory pension to rely on when they retire.

The new Finance Bill set out how the auto-enrolment scheme would work from a tax perspective.

The draft auto-enrolment

Bill presented to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Social Protection in 2022 provided for an employee’s auto-enrolment fund to be paid out fully tax-free at retirement.

People in the scheme will get their pension pot at the age of 66.

Under the Finance Bill, they will be entitled to 25% of

this tax free, up to a limit of €200,000, which applies to all pension schemes.

But the remaining 75% will be paid as a lump sum through the PAYE system.

This will be in addition to any work income up to the date of retirement.

A pensions expert said this means people in the auto-

enrolment scheme could be taxed at up to 47% on a larger part of their auto-enrolment pension money at retirement. This is made up of income tax at 40%, USC at 3% and PRSI at 4.1%.

But the auto-enrolment member will only get an effective tax relief on their auto-enrolment contributions of 25%.

A coastal flood would be much higher, it says, with losses “likely to rise significantly given the extent of buildings located around the coastline of Ireland and the additional damage done by salt water”.

With the country becoming wetter and experiencing more frequent intense rainfalls, the losses in both cases are expected to rise. A €510m inland flood is now expected at least every 25 years and a €2.5bn event will become twice as likely by 2050 under some of the more extreme climate-change scenarios.

The Central Bank says the direct knock-on effect will be hardship for individuals and increased pressure on the Government for financial assistance.

It says the average annual cost of damage to buildings from inland flooding is currently €101m, with €90m of that representing damage to buildings with little or no flood insurance.

Inheritance deadline for farmers’ families

There is an end of the year deadline for farmers and their families to formalise ad-hoc leasing arrangements to qualify for the key farm inheritance tax relief – Agricultural Relief.

Finance Minister Jack Chambers indicated in Budget 2025 that the person providing the land (‘the donor’) must meet the sixyear Active Farmer test for the beneficiary to benefit from Agricultural Relief. He said the change was to ensure the tax relief benefitted only genuine farmers amid concerns that high-net-worth individuals were using the tax break to

transfer wealth and inflating land prices in some areas.

However, in the days after the Budget, there were serious concerns that the proposed changes could have major consequences for some farm families, particularly elderly landowners, who are no longer active farmers and the beneficiaries of their estates would no longer be able to get Agricultural Relief.

After intense lobbying by agricultural stakeholders in recent weeks, Mr Chambers, in the Finance Bill which will underpin the changes, revealed what is

being dubbed ‘transitional arrangements’ and other amendments designed to ensure farmers can continue to access the relief.

However, significant concerns remain over the changes within farm organisations and among farm tax and legal specialists.

According to IFAC Head of Tax Marty Murphy, these changes are likely to negatively impact many farming families and arrangements that rely on agricultural relief for the seamless transfer of farmland from one generation to the next.

“The provisions, as they stand, represent a sig-

nificant change and require immediate and urgent action before December 31,” he said.

Under the new rules, the Active Farmer test now applies to the donor, the individual gifting the land, who must have satisfied the conditions for the six-year period prior to the date of the gift or inheritance.

The agricultural property must have been owned by the person who provided the gift or inheritance and have been used for the purposes of farming by that person or a person to whom the property was leased.

Girls’ gender inequality in science

The 2024 I Wish Report reveals that 60% of Irish teenage girls believe that gender inequality is the biggest barrier preventing them from pursuing careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), highlighting an urgent need for more inclusive and supportive environments.

While this figure has dropped from 83% in the 2021

annual I Wish Report, it underscores that, despite some progress, systemic change is still required in both society and education to ensure equal opportunities for girls in STEM.

The I Wish 2024 Survey of Female Students’ Perspectives on STEM also reveals that 33% of teenage girls say stereotypes — such as the belief that boys are inherently better at maths, engineering,

or technology — continue to discourage girls from entering STEM fields. Moreover, only 68% of all-girls schools offer STEM subjects beyond Maths and Science, compared to 87% in mixed schools and 96% in boys’ schools. The STEM subject gender gap is most evident in subjects like engineering, where boys represent 91% of those studying engineering at second level.

The report comes as I Wish

gears up for its largest-ever STEM Showcase on February 6 next the RDS Dublin. For its 11th year, 4,000 female students from across the entire island of Ireland will attend the event, offering them the chance to connect with inspiring women from leading global companies in STEM.

*

The Fact Of The Matter

Paul

Hopkins

The clocks go back ... and time moves on

Mark, the security man at my local supermarket, says:

“It won’t be long now.” Mark is an affable gentleman, and sometimes the only human contact I might have in a day – he and the lovely Nichole at checkout.

“Long ‘til when?” I say.

“Christmas,” he says. “Sure the clocks are going back, any time now.”

Oh, please, I say to myself, let’s not go there.

But Mark is right. The evenings are shorter, the nights longer and the temperature is dropping. The accompanying temptation is to stay snug indoors with heat – if you can afford such, that is – rather than making the effort to get outside.

With climate change continuously on the agenda, in one guise or other, it’s no wonder people on the road to the Winter Solstice get waylaid by Seasonal Adjustment Disorder (SAD). I feel

sad when the clocks go back, you might hear people say. Others, like Mark, might just as easily say: “Won’t be long now ‘til Christmas.” (Again, please, let’s not go there).

And, while those who are not affected by SAD dismiss it as some type of yuppie flu, more imagined than real, others will tell you they feel more often depressed during the dank, dark days of winter.

“People who truly have SAD are just as ill as people with any depressive disorder,” says my psychologist friend from Magherafelt, quoting research at the University of Copenhagen. It seems about one in every 10 of us suffers SAD. Such people struggle through autumn and winter and suffer from many of the same symptoms as what is termed ‘clinical depression’. And in the northern hemisphere, as many as one in three may suffer from ‘winter blues’ where we feel flat or

uninterested in things and, regularly, just dog-tired.

One school of thought for the existence of all this sadness is that it is as old as is celebrating the Winter Solstice and has its origins in the proverbial mists of time. Four out of five SAD sufferers are women, particularly – and strangely – those in early adulthood. In older women, the prevalence of the syndrome goes down and some researchers believe this pattern is linked to the behavioural cycles of our ancient ancestors.

“With it affecting such a large proportion of the population in a mild to moderate form, a lot of people in the field feel that SAD is a remnant from our past, relating to energy conservation,” says Robert Levitan, a professor at the University of Toronto.

It seems that when we had the Ice Age, 10,000 years

ago, a biological tendency to slow down during winter was useful, especially for women of reproductive age, with pregnancy being very energyintensive. But now, that we have a 24/7 society, we’re expected to be active all the time, all year round.

“I feel sad when the clocks go back, you might hear people say...

However, says the good professor, as to why a small proportion of people experience it so severely, that it is completely disabling, we just don’t know.

There are, though, a variety of biological systems thought to be involved, including those involving serotonin, that neurotransmitter that regulates anxiety, happiness and mood. Serotonin may be directly modulated by light.

In other words, the more light we are exposed to, the happier and more content we are. Like those long summer school holidays of old when every day seemed sunny and bright – and endless.

When you get to a certain stage in life, as I have, you embrace each season: you have, to paraphrase the poet William Henry Davies, more time to stand and stare. An invigorating walk in a winter wood can work wonders.

According to research at Dublin’s Royal College of Surgeons, exercising in the cold has been shown to stimulate the body’s ‘brown adipose tissue’ – that’s ‘brown fat’ to you and me. This fat is interesting because, unlike white fat which handles energy storage, the brown fellow is involved in heat production and energy expenditure. So as brown fat burns calories to generate heat, it can burn off your excess white fat. Some doctors even call it good fat.

Roaring fires and hot whiskies aside, we all have our own idiosyncratic way of dealing with the dark days of winter. My Aunt Evie would take to the overcoat and the hot-water bottle clutched close to her tummy for the duration – day and night. No talk of high energy bills back then.

In the meantime, it won’t be long now until... you know...

As we age, we need to look after our bones

As our ageing population grows, so does the risk of osteoporosis, which affects more than 300,000 people in Ireland. Osteoporosis is called the "silent disease" because there are often no signs or symptoms prior to a person breaking (fracturing) bones. With the expected rise in our aging population and osteoporotic-related fractures, the importance of raising awareness around osteoporosis prevention and early detection has never been greater. A person can look perfectly fine on the outside but can have significant bone loss on the inside, as no one feels bone loss occurring.

This October it is time to empower women 65+ to prioritise their bone health and take proactive steps to prevent, diagnose and treat osteoporosis. Bone health is a key part of women’s health and women over 65 are more at risk because of the secondary effects of the menopause which can result in significant bone loss.

Ahead of World Osteoporosis Day (Sunday, October 20), the ‘Unbreakable’ campaign is celebrating the indomitable spirit of women aged 65 +. Many of these women have endured the challenge of life, and emerged resilient, developing remarkable inner strength and determination. However, while their spirits may be unbreakable, their physical frames can become more fragile over time, especially as the effects of osteoporosis and other agerelated conditions start to take hold.

Ambassadors Jess Redden,

Linda Redden, Karl Henry and Orla Walsh are breaking the silence, and calling on daughters, sons, nieces, husbands and friends to

support the women in their lives over 65, encouraging them to take control of their health by speaking to their GP or healthcare profes-

sional and finding out their bone health status.

Studies show that one in five women die within one year following a hip frac-

ability, and one of the main reasons why older people lose their independence. Research shows that most fractures from osteoporosis are preventable and the key to preventing broken bones is early detection of those most at risk.

Pharmacist and content creator Jess Redden is encouraging meaningful conversations about osteoporosis among women and their loved ones. "My mum Linda is always looking out for my family and demonstrates an unbreakable spirit that is truly awe-inspiring. Her confidence, wisdom, and zest for life sets a shining example for our family. When Mum broke her arm last year, it was a wakeup call for the whole family that while her spirit may be unbreakable, her bones are not."

In some cases, osteoporosis can be preventable. Lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise influence how healthy your bones are, says Dietician Orla Walsh. "Staying active is key to preventing osteoporosis," says Personal Trainer and bestselling author Karl Henry "Strength training and resistance exercises help build muscle mass and strengthen bones. Simple exercises like walking, low-impact aerobics, light weightlifting and even gardening can be highly effective in maintaining bone health."

ture. A hip fracture has a significant impact on a patient’s physical and social wellbeing, resulting in pain, reduced mobility, dis-

Women aged 65 and over are urged to visit their GP to discuss what risk factors they have for bone loss and book a DXA scan. A DXA is a low-dose X-ray to see how dense or strong your bones are.

Stallion worth €2.4m. in Hight Court case

A businessman and a company have claimed in the High Court that a stallion estimated to be worth €2.4m is wrongly and unlawfully held at bloodstock expert Joe Foley's Ballyhane Stud in Leighlinbridge, Co Carlow.

Sands Of Mali, a successful racehorse who finished his racing career in 2020, now covers mares which have produced progeny that have won 13 races in Britain as well as one each in Ireland and France.

Jersey-based Steven Parkin, and a UK-registered company he is a member of, Clipper BCS LLP, who say they bought the stallion for €323,000 in August 2020, say Mr Foley and Ballyhane Stud Ltd are now claiming a 50% share in the horse.

Mr Parkin, in an affidavit, said the defendants never purchased any share in the stallion.

He said the defendants claimed that he (Mr Parkin) indicated acknowledgement of shared ownership in a What-

sApp message in November 2023.

Mr Parkin says: "I sent no such WhatsApp message and deny the contents and indication of such an allegation.”

Mr Parkin and Clipper BCS are seeking injunctions and orders requiring the defendants to deliver up possession of Sands Of Mali.

Mr Justice Brian Cregan has granted Robert Beatty SC, for Mr Parkin and Clipper BCS, permission to bring short service of the proceedings on the defendants.

The application was made with only the plaintiffs side represented and the judge said the matter could come back next week.

Mr Parkin said the row over Sands Of Mali is part of a wider dispute between the parties concerning his side's claims about outstanding covering fees due to them for the stallion and four other thoroughbred breeding stallions which were stabled at Ballyhane.

Make no bones about it: Karl Henry, Linda Redden, Jess Redden and Orla Walsh

PHOTO: Photocall Ireland

As I See It Marianne

Heron

Why Irish apples are ripe for development

Apples have quite a juicy reputation ranging from their temptation of Eve in the Garden of Eden to their connection with immortality in Celtic mythology. Before burly pumpkins muscled in on the act, apples had a leading role in Halloween tradition: featuring apple bobbing, toffee apples and the game of divining your future love in the initials formed by apple peel.

But do you ever stop to think before you take a crisp bite where your eating apple comes from? It’s a pity that in the heart of apple growing counties like Kilkenny, Tipperary and Waterford there is a 95% chance that rosy cheeked fruit is an import. Despite apples being our No. 1 favourite fruit, (95% of us eat them) and that our climate is well suited to apple growing, there aren’t enough Irish apples on our supermarket shelves.

It wasn’t always so, according to Cornelius Trass of the

Apple Farm, Cahir, Co. Tipperary where his family farms 40 acres and grows both eating and cooking apples. “When Ireland joined the Common Market we became open to competition from imports where countries like France have lower costs than ours.”

Some of the 15 red eating varieties grown on the Trass’s farm have names like pop stars: Red Elstar or Red Prince. Old favourites like Cox’s Orange Pippin and the ubiquitous cooking apple Bramley Seedling, which dominates the Irish market, are also grown. There are about 40 Irish apple growers in the 26 counties with orchards varying in size from three or four acres to up to 100 and over 60 varieties of Irish apples. Several Irish growers got together a while back under the marketing banner Celtic Orchards to increase awareness of Irish apples and later disbanded. With a domestic market worth

€173 million last year, there should be room for Irish apple farmers to grow their share of it but this depends on several factors.

Research carried out by Bord Bia found that awareness of where apples come from is low, that quality was perceived as being more important than price alongside a preparedness by shoppers to

support premium Irish apples and a desire for greater emphasis on origin.

“There is demand for Irish apples but at what prices does that begin to drop off and, if the price is lower than the cost of production, then there is no point in trying to supply that demand,” says Cornelius, pointing out apples aren’t the most profitable of crops.

A check on the apples available at my nearest Dunnes store, where Pink Ladies (aka Cripps Pink) are giving the Grannies Smith a run for their money, revealed a few trays of Irish apples among the banks of imported apples originating from France, Italy and New Zealand.

Apples have a lot going for them, that claim ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’ has a sound basis for apples are good for both our own health and environmental health. They are full of vitamins, fibre and anti-oxidants and they promote cardio-vascular health. Apple trees are good for carbon sequestration and locally grown produce helps cut down on carbon emissions from transport.

Climate change, incidentally, given uncertain weather and earlier flowering associated with the risk of frost damage, isn’t helpful to apple growers either here or overseas.

Increased awareness of

home-grown apples may help to boost demand. Also, Teagasc have a horticultural development plan which aims to increase Irish apple production, studying different types of apples, methods of production and disease control.

There is nothing like growing and eating your own plump apples straight from the tree.

Tom English of English’s Fruit Nursery at Adamstown, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford which supplies both the public and the nursery trade has some suggestions for small gardens. “Discovery, a red apple that ripens before the kids go back to school is ideal and Katy is another red apple that ripens early,” he says. Grown on a M26 root stock these grow to 10 feet or on an M9 to under five , there is also a Twin apple tree, grafted to produce two different kinds of fruit. Time to get the spade out, this is the right season to plant fruit trees!

Cleanmarine MenoMin rebranded

Menopause can come with a wide variety of symptoms, so many in fact that you can think you are going crazy. Over the years it has been put to me that all these symptoms cannot possibly be all the menopause. But the truth is, they can be. And this is because of the decline in oestrogen levels and changes in other hormones as we age. I think we are hormonally challenged for half of our lives.

Hot flushes, increased worry, and low mood are such common symptoms some of you might think that if you don’t have these symptoms, then you are not going through the menopause. Today we know that declining oestrogen can also contribute to aches and pains, concentration and brain fog, insomnia, skin problems including itchy skin and this is just a few. Many women find that a fog they feel in their brain is affecting their ability to perform well at home and at work. It can be surprising to learn that this may also be a symptom of the menopause. Hormonal changes may affect your physical, emotional, and mental health.

You don’t have to wait until you have a number of debilitating symptoms to do

something about balancing your hormones. Cleanmarine MenoMin a supplement to help with these changes in hormones from age 40. Many customers have told me that it helps them feel better each day and look great too. Some of you find it great for energy and have fewer hot flushes. For others reduced brain fog means better clarity and focus on daily tasks. I want to let you know that Menomin has been rebranded as you might not recognise it on the shelf. It’s now in a white box with a purple colour circle on the box. It is still the same

wonderful product that you love. Cleanmarine MenoMin is scientifically formulated with vitamin B6 to support hormonal balance and psychological function, Biotin to support hair, skin, and mucous membrane. It contains Omega 3 DHA which contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function. You can take MenoMin alongside HRT too. There is light at the end of this journey, at least there was for me. I have never felt better than I do now. Why not give us a call if you have any questions.

CLAIR WHITTY

Connolly’s RED MILLS & Leader Dog Food present “Madra Monday” at Savour

Kilkenny Food Festival

2024

A free dog-friendly extravaganza on bank holiday Monday, October 28th! At the Parade, Kilkenny City from 12-4pm

Connolly’s RED MILLS and its Leader Dog Food range are excited to sponsor “Madra Monday,” a free, dog-friendly celebration as part of the Savour Kilkenny Food Festival.

On Bank Holiday Monday, October 28th, The Parade in Kilkenny will transform into a haven for dog lovers and food enthusiasts, with an exciting line-up of dog shows, activities, and expert talks tailored for the entire family, including our four-legged friends!

From show-stopping dog demonstrations to pet nutrition advice, “Madra Monday” offers something for everyone in a welcoming and scenic setting. Dog lovers and their pets can enjoy a fun-filled day, with plenty of treats, activities, and adorable photo opportunities. Connolly’s RED MILLS invites everyone to experience the best of Kilkenny’s festival atmosphere with their furry companions in tow.

Event Highlights Sponsored by Connolly’s RED MILLS and Leader Dog Food Include:

• Dog Shows and Demonstrations: Get ready to cheer on talented pups as they compete in a range of friendly dog shows. Don’t miss your chance to participate! Register your dog online for their moment in the spotlight.

• Expert Talks on Dog Health and Nutrition: Led by specialists from Connolly’s RED MILLS, these sessions provide valuable insights into canine

wellness, nutrition, and training tips to keep your pet healthy and happy.

• Puppy Playground: A special area

for young dogs to play, socialize, and let off some steam. Perfect for puppies to build confidence and for

owners to enjoy watching their pups make new friends.

• Doggy Pick ‘n’ Mix & Toys: Spoil

your pet with a selection of dogfriendly treats from the Leader Dog Food range.

• Puppuccino Station: Treat your pet to a delicious, dog-friendly puppuccino, making sure they don’t miss out on the festival’s treats!

• Face Painting and Balloon Making for Kids: Young festival-goers can get their faces painted as their favourite animals and balloons created of their furry friends adding to the familyfriendly atmosphere of the day.

• Pawsome Photo Booth: Capture memories with your pet at the Pawsome Photo Booth, complete with fun props for dogs and their owners alike.

This unique event promises to deliver a day of bonding, learning, and endless fun, all while reinforcing the commitment of Connolly’s RED MILLS to supporting animal wellness and community initiatives.

How to Register for Dog Shows

While entry to “Madra Monday” is free, spaces in the dog shows are limited. Dog owners are encouraged to register their dogs for participation by visiting the Savour Kilkenny website or Connolly’s RED MILLS event page to secure their spots.

For more information, registration details, and event updates, please visit: https://redmillsstore.ie/ pages/madra-monday

Chloe Scally and Duke pictured at the launch of Madra Monday as part of the Savour Kilkenny Food Festival taking place at the Parade, Kilkenny City on the Bank Holiday Monday the 28th of October from 12-4pm.

Photo by Helena Hatton

SPECIAL REPORT

Are you a food or beverage entrepreneur with a vision to disrupt the industry? Do you have a product, food technology solution or ingredient that has the potential to make a global impact? Food and drink companies from Co. Kilkenny are being encouraged to apply for Food Works 2025, Ireland’s leading investment accelerator programme for high-potential food and drink companies – now accepting applications for its 2025 cohort.

Combining the resources of Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Teagasc, Food Works has been a fundamental driver of innovation in the food sector in the last decade.    It helps to drive scale and enables participants to become investor-ready in order to achieve success in domestic and international markets. The 10-month programme offers entrepreneurs the unique opportunity to access expert mentorship and development of an investor ready business plan, connect with potential investors and buyers as well as gain valuable marketing and production insights.    Successful applicants in 2024 included Chimac, Reso Health Ltd, Blynk Drinks, Ireland West Distillery - Shaker & Co. Brand, ELEMENT Irish Whiskey, Fire&5th, Mór Taste, SomaTech Limited and FemFuelz, all of whom will complete the programme in the coming months.

Speaking about the benefits of the programme, Mary Maguire from Fire&5th, said: “The Food Works programme has come along at an absolutely critical time in our business. The structure of the programme around the key elements of financial planning, route to market, and marketing strategy has been crucial and has

Thought for food: Kylie O’Donoghue, Mary Maguire, Sofie Rooney, and Fionn Cox are currently taking part in Food Works, the investment accelerator programme for highpotential food, drink, ingredients, food science and technology companies.

Kilkenny food & drink firms required for leading accelerator programme

enabled us to articulate a clear and compelling business plan for the future.”

Kylie O’Donoghue from FemFuel said: “Food Works has been an incredible opportunity for us because sometimes when you’re in the business it’s very hard to focus on the business itself. The programme forces you to think outside the box and do all of things you know you should be doing when you are stuck in the day to day.

“I couldn’t recommend it enough for start-ups or anyone who is in business for a couple of years to focus on what you really need to.”

Food Works was established in 2012 and since then has welcomed over 120 companies through the programme, including hugely successful food and drink brands such as Nobó, Grá Chocolates, Zingibeer, Valentia Island Vermouth and Lismore Food Company, to name just a few. Since the programme began, Enterprise Ireland has invested over €6.67 million in Food Works companies including 21 High-Potential Start-Up (HPSU) and 23 PSSF/CSF investments.

Food Works runs annually from February to November. Participating start-ups take

part in workshops with national and international industry experts across various disciplines such as strategy, finance, manufacturing and marketing. Successful applicants are supported to get investor-ready by developing a comprehensive business plan focussed on scaling internationally. They also receive customised support from business advisors, facilitated peer-topeer learning and may have the opportunity to receive feasibility grant funding of up to €30,000.

The three State agencies, Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Teagasc, work jointly to

deliver the Food Works programme.

Bord Bia provides strategic insight and support, assisting participating companies in their understanding of consumers, competitors, trends, opportunities and both domestic and international markets.

Enterprise Ireland focuses on helping entrepreneurs to start and grow their business internationally. It works collaboratively with the High Potential StartUps (HPSUs) taking part in Food Works to develop a robust funding strategy to drive growth and supports them to prepare an investor

ready business plan.   Teagasc provides technical support to companies in the development of high-quality, sustainable products, processes and packaging solutions.  State-of-the-art food centres in Dublin and Cork provide participants with access to facilities, equipment, and specialist expertise.  The closing date for applications for the 2025 programme is November 29.

*Full details and an application form are available at FoodWorksIreland.ie

Why your DNA is only one piece of the puzzle

Someone’s DNA is simply an instruction manual for who they are and is not generally their “destiny”, an expert has said.

Geneticist and ancient DNA specialist Professor Turi King explained that DNA was only one piece of the puzzle, and people have a lot of choice in who they are.

The scientist, who led one of the biggest forensic DNA cases in history – the identification of the remains of England’s King Richard III – said she would like people to know that who they were was a complex mix of their genetics and environment.

Dr King said: “Our DNA is not generally our destiny.

“It’s like an instruction

manual for making a person, running that individual, and then having them go on to make their own new little people.

“But it’s just part of the picture of who we are.

“So when, as a geneticist, people say ‘oh, it’s in their DNA’, I just kind of go, ‘ahh’ because our DNA is just part of who we are.

“DNA is just part of the picture - we have so much of our own choice in who we are, and our health, and this kind of thing.”

Dr King, co-presenter of the TV series DNA Family Secrets, said something she would like to get across to people was that there were very few genetic diseases where if someone

had a particular genetic make-up they were going to get a particular disease.

“There are some genes that we know have a very big impact, but for the vast majority, it’s way more complex,” she said.

“It is a mixture of our genetic makeup, also our environment, and that will be everything from how we are brought up to what we’re eating to where we’re living – and we have our choices in that.”

Dr King, director of the Milner Centre for Evolution at the University of Bath, gave a talk at New Scientist Live about the use of genetics in the fields of forensics, history, genealogy and archaeology.

PHOTO Chris Bellew, Fennell Photography

Opinion

Some spooky takes on turnip and pumpkins Your Money & You

Back in the day I remember my Granda turning a humble turnip into a lantern. The smell of that turnip burning from the inside out with a candle was something else — a smell that still sticks with me. But today, the pumpkin has stolen the show, becoming the very symbol of Halloween. Forget the turnip’s smoky smell and welcome the seasonal fragrance of pumpkin spice!

What you may ask have turnips, pumpkins, and Halloween to do with a financial article. Believe it or not there is a financial aspect to the lowly turnip and more recently the pumpkin. In recent years pumpkins have exploded in popularity. Last October, more that 40,000 people searched for “pumpkin,” and “pumpkin patch” rising to 513% — the highest in four years.

People are already planning their décor, costumes, and buying in the sweets, but there is one thing we might

John Ellis

forget amid all this pumpkinmania: waste.

For all the joy pumpkins bring, they also contribute to a huge amount of waste. After the carving is done, most of those seeds, pulp, and left

over bits end up in the bin becoming a mouldy mess.

But fear not, John Girvan from Alliance Online Ireland has stepped up to share some quirky, fun, and easy ways to make sure no part of your

roast the leftover

pumpkin seeds, skin, and pulp until soft, and blend into a smooth puree. Then add it to your latte for an authentic, sustainable pumpkin flavour.

Once the children have carved their masterpiece, why not turn the leftovers into something delicious – pumpkin soups, cakes, muffins, stews, pies — take your pick and this will help reduce food waste while cutting down on your household costs. The seeds; roast them with salt, pepper, or even a dash of cinnamon for a healthy pre-trick-or-treat snack.

If you are not up for pumpkin-flavoured meals or lattes, there is still a way to give your leftover pumpkin bits a second life — composting!

“Pumpkin scraps make brilliant compost as they enrich the soil and reduce the need for chemical fertilisers,” explains John Girvan. Rather than sending “that organic goodness” to a landfill,

spread it on the garden. You will feel good knowing you have done your bit to reduce food waste while helping the environment.

Lastly, if you are in the mood for a snack that is a little off the beaten path, try making pumpkin crisps.

“Simply shave the pumpkin skins into bite-size pieces, toss them in olive oil, salt, and spices, and bake until crispy,” John Girvan suggests. It is a vegan, crunchy snack that is both nutritious and a clever way to use up every part of your pumpkin. So, while Halloween would not be the same without the glow of the lantern grinning at people as they pass your house let us not forget that the pumpkin itself has a lot more to offer than simply good looks. And who knows, next year if we take a stand, turnips could make a comeback.

john@ellisfinancial.ie

086 8362633

pumpkin goes to waste this Halloween and save money. Become your own Barista and make your own Pumpkin Spice Latte while saving money and the planet. Simply

Science & Wellbeing

AI-powered assistants are set to become a part of daily life, offering guidance and reminders through body-worn devices that blend artificial intelligence with augmented reality. While these technologies will provide users with useful “superpowers,” they also raise concerns about privacy and the potential for manipulation. Louis Rosenberg, an AI and augmented reality researcher, argues we must balance innovation and user protection, and that policymakers should set regulations prioritising user agency over targeted advertising.

Within the next few years, an AI assistant will take up residence inside your head. It will do this by whispering guidance into your ears as you go about your daily routine, reminding you to pick up your dry cleaning as you walk down the street, helping you find your parked car in a stadium lot, and prompting you with the name of a coworker you pass in the hall. It may even coach you as you converse with friends and coworkers, giving you interesting things to say that make you seem smarter, funnier, and more charming than you are. These will feel like superpowers.

Of course, everyone else will be “augmented” too, creating an arms race among the public to embrace the latest features and functions. This is the future of mobile computing. It will transform the bricks we carry around all day into body-worn devices that see and hear our surroundings and covertly whisper useful information and friendly reminders at every turn. Most of these devices will be deployed as AI-powered glasses because they give the best vantage point for cameras to monitor our field of view, though camera-enabled earbuds will be available too. The other benefit of glasses is that they can be enhanced

History and sociological research have shown that in decades past, many couples partnered up understanding that the man would provide financial security, while the woman would take care of the home and manage the emotional components of raising a family.

Now, a new study is showing that our collective movement toward a more equitable approach to partnership is finally rooting down.

Published last month in Sage Journals: Evolutionary Psychology, the study, which was led by a team of Polish and Italian researchers, analysed reported dynamics between 148 heterosexual couples. Data showed kindness, anger, and intelligence all played a pivotal role in attraction, and also had an effect on relationship satisfaction after people coupled up. In particular, kindness was determined to be the most important trait in a potential

The future is an AI voice inside your head

to display visual content, enabling the AI to provide silent assistance as text, images, and realistic immersive elements that are integrated spatially into our world. This future is the result of two technologies maturing and merging into one: artificial intelligence and augmented reality. Their combination will enable AI assistants to ride shotgun

in our lives, observing our world and giving us advice so useful that we’ll quickly feel like we can’t live without it. Of course, there are serious privacy concerns, not to mention the risk of AI-powered persuasion and manipulation, but what choice will we have? When big tech starts selling superpowers, not having these abilities will mean being at a disadvantage

What attracts us to each other

socially, professionally, economically, and intellectually. Whatever we call this technology, it is coming soon and will mediate all aspects of our lives, assisting us at work, at school, or even when grabbing a late-night snack in the privacy of our own kitchen. If you are skeptical, you’ve not been tracking the massive investment and rapid progress made by Meta on this front

partner. “People have various preferences in who they would like to pair-up with romantically. However, both

men and women most value compassion in their partners. Specifically, they prefer partners who are kind and under-

standing,” the study authors wrote.

Though both men and women ranked kindness as a

important mobile device sold today. That’s because it follows the new paradigm that will soon define mobile computing. It has onboard cameras and microphones that feed a powerful AI engine and pumps verbal guidance into your ears.

Just the other week at Meta Connect, the company showcased new consumer-focused features for these glasses, like helping users find their parked cars, translating languages in real-time, and naturally answering questions about things you see in front of you.

and the arms race they are stoking with Apple, Google, Samsung, and other major players in the mobile market.

It is increasingly clear that by 2027, this will become the big new battleground in the mobile device industry.

The first of these devices is already on the market — the AI-powered Ray-Bans from Meta. While currently a niche product, it is the single most

top priority in their potential mates, the researchers also found that women had a more nuanced reason to consider kindness so desirable. The study explains that women value intelligence in their male romantic partners more than men value intelligence in female romantic partners, and that women were also more likely to view kind men as intelligent. Conversely, “women perceived angrier men as less intelligent, which impacted relationship satisfaction of both partners,” the study adds. Their findings seemed to reframe the researchers’ initial hypothesis: Prior to the study, they believed that there might be a “tension” between kindness and intelligence. “Theoretically, mating might be considered as a process of bargaining between two higher-order attributes: compassion and competence,” they’d anticipated. Instead, this study seems to

Of course, the Meta RayBans are just a first step. The next step is to visually enhance your experience as you navigate your world. Meta unveiled their prototype Orion glasses that deliver highquality visual content in a form factor that is finally reasonable to wear in public. The Orion device is not planned for commercial deployment, but it paves the way for consumer versions to follow. So, where is this all headed? By the early 2030s, the convergence of artificial intelligence and augmented reality will be sufficiently refined that AI assistants will appear as photorealistic avatars that are embodied within our field of view. They will not be displayed as human-sized virtual assistants who follow us around all day. That would be creepy. Instead, they will be rendered as cute little creatures that fly out in front of us, guiding us and informing us about our surroundings. On the other hand, deploying intelligent systems that whisper in your ears as you go about your life could easily be abused as a dangerous form of targeted influence. And when this is coupled with the ability to visually modify the world you see around you, these AI-powered glasses could unlock the most powerful tools of persuasion and manipulation ever created.

confirm that these two desirable traits can often go handin-hand—as the researchers report: “Competence and compassion might be regarded as an internally balanced construct of partners’ value.” Though more research is needed, a 2019 study published in the journal Intelligence suggested that most studies on the topic have found a positive association between prosocial (empathetic) behavior and innate cognitive abilities. In other words, being in-tune with others is a sign of intelligence. So, based on recent research, women might be encouraged that they don’t have to choose between kindness and intelligence in a partner. And, there’s an equally important message for men: emphasizing kindness could make an even bigger and better impression on your dates than trying to display overconfidence or a cool exterior.

PHOTO: Priscilla DuPreez / Unsplash

Travel & Leisure

Seven most walkable cities

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam [pictured], the capital of the Netherlands and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, is the world’s most walkable city. The area’s average elevation, elevation range, and overall difficulty influenced its impressive 20.1 score. The Netherlands is flat, so it is unsurprising Amsterdam scores well in that department.

Amsterdam’s unique urban landscape also helps, like the city’s easily navigable Canal Ring and pedestrian-only streets. Constructed in the 1600s, the Canal Ring spans approximately 60 miles with more than 1,500 bridges. These connections make it easy to travel from one tourist attraction to the next. For example, the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum are only five minutes apart.

Rotterdam, Netherlands

Rotterdam takes the second spot with a difficulty score of 20.7. This eclectic Dutch city is also flat; Its average elevation score is 1, the same as Amsterdam’s, signifying the practically zero elevation above sea level.

Visitors can stroll among art galleries and modern skyscrapers without worrying about steep climbs and steps. The historic centre of Rotterdam fell in 1940, and the reconstruction resulted in wide sidewalks. The main shopping street, Lijnbaan, is one of the first pedestrianised streets in the city centre.

Among the impressive lineup of Spanish cities is Córdoba – a charming city that often finds itself overlooked.

Córdoba, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, has a rich history, with Roman roots that date back to its founding in 152 BC, which visitors can still find remnants of its past today.

Once the capital of the Moorish Empire during the ‘Islamic Golden Age’ in the 10th century, the city flourished under the rule as a centre of art, science, and philosophy, becoming one the most advanced cities in Europe.

Nowadays, it’s often bypassed in favour of more popular Andalusian destinations. But those who explore will be treated to its stunning architecture and rich cultural scene, including the MezquitaCathedral, the ancient Roman bridge, and the winding streets of the Jewish quarter. It’s even been named in Skyscanner’s annual report of the hottest destinations for 2025.

Venice, Italy

All Clear Travel Insurance and Tourlane declare Venice third among the world’s most walkable cities. Like Amsterdam, Venice’s low elevation helps. Its flat walking paths and grand canal system comprising 472 bridges earned an overall difficulty score of 22.8. Better

yet, the city is predominantly pedestrian-only, so tourists don’t have to worry about encountering traffic.

Besides being flat and car free, Venice ranks as one of the world’s most walkable cities because the main tourist attractions are close together. It takes less than 10 minutes to walk between world

famous attractions like Rialto Bridge and St Mark’s Square, St Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, and Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs. Not to mention, walking Venice’s charming streets is exceptionally romantic.

New Orleans, Louisiana, US

The best way to explore the

sights, sounds, and tastes of bustling New Orleans, Louisiana, is on foot — which, luckily, is incredibly easy.

New Orleans might be a large city, but getting around isn’t difficult. In fact, a difficulty score of 25.1 makes it the world’s fourth-most walkable city.

Some things that help make New Orleans highly walkable include its low elevation, minimal elevation change, and compact tourist areas. Tourists can easily walk between popular attractions in the French Quarter, such as Jackson Square and the New Orleans Jazz Museum, in approximately 10 minutes. Meanwhile, some streets, like Fulton Street, have pedestrian-only blocks to encourage walking.

Kolkata, India

Kolkata might be one of the largest cities in India, but that doesn’t stop it from being one of the world’s most walkable cities. Formerly Calcutta, this fascinating port city is the capital of West Bengal State. It’s home to iconic Indian attractions, including the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Science City, and Birla Mandir.

Admittedly, tourists might have to walk further between Kolkata’s main tourist attractions. However, it’s easy, as this city ranks well for elevation, elevation range, and overall difficulty. Its score of 29.3 makes Kolkata the world’s fifth-most walkable city. A number of available

walking tours allow tourists to get a true sense of what the city is like.

Cancún, Mexico

Cancún claims the sixth spot with a difficulty score of 29.7. The Hotel Zone, the main tourist area, has wide sidewalks with several shops and restaurants along the way. Although Cancún is known for its stunning beaches, it is also incredibly walkable. The city is mostly flat, and the elevation range is minimal. With an elevation range score of 18.8, it is easy to explore on foot.

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, sits on a small island in the Persian Gulf. The city is best known for breathtaking architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning resorts. However, despite temperatures reaching an incredible 108°F (42°C), the city is also known as one of the world’s most walkable cities.

Abu Dhabi’s rank as the world’s seventh most walkable city is largely due to its low average elevation. All Clear Travel Insurance scores the city 6.7, better than number five Kolkata. The city also has many pedestrian-friendly places, such as Corniche, a beautiful waterfront promenade that span eight kilometres. Meanwhile, Downtown Abu Dhabi is compact, so tourists can easily get from A to B quickly.

October, in particular, is a great time to visit. While it’s cooler than the intense summer heat, temperatures can reach up to 27°C –perfect for some last-minute sun-seeking.

Winter also has pleasant temperatures, between 1016°C, and there are fewer tourists for those who want to escape the crowds.

Visit Córdoba: a charming city

The city ranked fifth on the list of places that have seen the biggest increase in searches over the past 12 months, standing alongside other stunning spots from Tromsø, Norway to Siem Reap in Cambodia.

The nearest airport to Córdoba is Seville, located

around 130 kilometres southwest of the city.

From Seville, there are several options for getting to your final destination, including renting a car, with the drive taking around 90 minutes. Alternatively, you could catch a direct train, which takes around 45

minutes to an hour.

The best time to visit Córdoba is during the spring (April to early June) or in Autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild but pleasant enough to explore comfortably.

Being inland in the south of Spain, Córdoba

experiences more extreme temperatures than coastal areas, and its summers can be unbearably hot.

As such, tourists may want to avoid visiting between July and August when temperatures can soar to extreme highs, often exceeding 40°C.

Due to its UNESCO World Heritage Status, the city is brimming with history and culture, offering plenty to see and do.

A trip to Córdoba would be remiss without a visit to the Mezquita Cathedral, one of the ‘world’s greatest works of Islamic architecture’, according to Lonely Planet. The city’s Roman sights are plentiful too – perhaps the most breathtaking is the Roman Bridge of Cordoba, originally built during the 1st century BC under the reign of Augustus. Although it has undergone several renovations over the years, many of its original features remain intact, and visitors have described the bridge as ‘marvellous’ and ‘fascinating’ on Tripadvisor.

Opinion

Food for thought and thoughts of food Furthermore Gerry Moran

Autumn – season of mists and mellow fruitfulness –and if you live in this beautiful city of ours a season of marvellous menus, fabulous food, and wonderful presentations about food, of course, by celebrity chefs.

Yes, It’s that time of year again, folks, Savour Kilkenny time when the Parade and the Castle Road, are alive with the seductive smell of sausages, burgers and, of course, the exotic odours of foods that tantalise the taste buds, teasing us mercilessly until we succumb to some calzone, chowder or couscous. It’s that time of year when foodies from near and far descend on this city of ours, the Marble City, the Medieval Capital of Ireland and, who knows, but, judging by the success of Savour, possibly the Food Capital of Ireland in time to come. And why not?

Already we are the Festival Capital of Ireland: we have the

Cat Laughs Comedy Festival, the Roots Festival, the Animation Festival, our famous, and unique, Arts Festival, the Gowran Park Horse Racing Festival, the Kilkenomics Festival which is growing in popularity each passing year and the festival of the moment – Savour Kilkenny. Oh, and I may even be forgetting a festival or two. If so, my apologies. In the meantime, here are some tasty morsels about food:

The style of restaurant service we are all used to –individual plates pre-filled and served – is called Russian service, and originates from the table of the Czar of Russia. In French cuisine it was traditional for all food to be prepared in advance and dis-

played in copious amounts on side tables; the result was that much food was wasted and it wasn’t always hot. Russian service caught on very fast, was very convenient and is now the primary way food is served.

******

When the Greek singer Demis Roussos visited the once famous Mireabeau

Restaurant in Dublin he tucked into five dozen oysters, three lobsters, three ducks off-the-bone and a variety of fresh vegetables followed by an unspecified amount of Demis Surprise pudding, a soufflé with a delicate cinnamon sauce and a mixture of liqueurs. After that he ate bowls of coddle and Irish stew!

******

If you weigh yourself immediately before a meal and then four hours later, you will often find you are lighter as a result of moisture loss through the skin during the process of digestion.

******

Honey doesn’t go off. It is the only known food source that keeps indefinitely in its raw form. In fact, Archaeologist T.M. Davies discovered a 3300-year-old jar of honey in an Egyptian tomb; to his amazement, the honey was in remarkably good condition. I

eat my peas with honey, I’ve done it all my life, it makes them taste quite funny, but it keeps them on the knife.

******

Every year in Japan numerous people die from eating fu-gu, a fish considered a delicacy. It has a poison in its guts and only licensed cooks are allowed to prepare it. There is a live-minnow eating festival held every year in Geraardsbergen in Belgium. Minnows are dropped into a chalice of red wine then drunk.

******

“Anyone who saw those poor creatures would have done the same,”said Arlene Harris. She was speaking after rescuing five lobsters from a party she was attending in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. “I went by the pot where they had the lobsters,”,she explained, “I peeked in and saw them wiggling their tails. They were saying: take me to the beach.” Arlene snatched

on.

******

The couple had just finished their expensive dinner in an exclusive restaurant. The waiter was pouring a third glass of port when he noticed the gentleman slide off his chair and disappear. “Excuse me, madam,” he said. “Your husband is under the table.” “No he’s not,”she replied ashen-faced. “My husband has just come in the door!”

******

Finally, Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in the afterlife in a well-preserved body; rather one should skid in sideways – Chablis in one hand, chocolate in the other, body totally worn out and screaming: “WOO-HOO, what a ride!”

the lobsters and drove to the harbour where she returned the lobsters to the sea. Meanwhile her husband ate his lobster pretending nothing was going

Kilkenny man running 6 Ultra Marathons across 6

Gowran native bids to raise €60,000 for three local & national organisations

counties in 6 days

Kilkenny man, David Carter, will undertake the Ultra 300 Challenge from 4th to 9th November 2024 which will see him run 50km every day with a total of 300km covered across routes in Kilkenny, Carlow, Kildare, Wexford, Waterford & Tipperary.

David is undertaking this challenge in memory of his late father, Charlie Carter, who

passed away in 2010. The final day of his run takes place on 9th November, the date his late father would have celebrated his 75th birthday. The epic challenge will finish in his home village of Gowran, Co. Kilkenny alongside family and friends.

David is aiming to raise vital funds for 3 organisations, the Dillon Quirke Foundation, The

Alzheimer Society of Ireland and Young Irelands GAA & Camogie Club in Kilkenny. Speaking at the official fundraising launch David explained his reasons for taking on this challenge.

“These causes are all close to my heart for different reasons and I wanted to do something in Dad’s memory

and to celebrate what would have been his 75th birthday to create awareness and raise vital funding for them. The Ultra 300 Challenge will contribute towards continuing their significant community impact.”

David was joined at the launch event by local sport stars, including legendary Kilkenny hurler, Henry Shefflin; former Kilkenny hurling coach & hurler, Conor Phelan; and Paralympian; Mary Fitzgerald, alongside Dan Quirke from the Dillon Quirke Foundation, Eila Flynn from The Alzheimer Society of Ireland & representatives from Young Irelands GAA & Camogie Club.  On the day, the Dillon Quirke Foundation also provided essential cardiac screening for 45 young boys and girls from the Young

David will document his entire fundraising journey on social media via Instagram & TikTok (@ultra300challenge). As well as family, friends and colleagues from Ornua, owner of the world-famous Kerrygold brand,  joining him along some of the routes, David is asking people around the globe to run in unison to help raise funds via www. ultra300challenge. com and sponsor him through iDonate (Young Irelands GAA & Camogie Club Kilkenny | Online Fundraising (idonate.ie)

Pictured at the fundraising launch were: Eila Flynn from The Alzheimer Society of Ireland; Dan Quirke from the Dillon Quirke Foundation; Paralympian; Mary Fitzgerald; David Carter; former Kilkenny coach and hurler, Conor Phelan, and former Kilkenny hurler, Henry Shefflin.

Photo Dylan Vaughan

With hope in our hearts, we will thrive... The Last Word Pat Coughlan

Hope, it’s the lifeblood that keeps us all pushing on. Would you agree? Maybe not but anyway without it, we’d be stuck in the mud, dragging our feet through every rut life throws at us. I’ve always seen hope as the spark that lights up our path, especially when everything feels like it’s closing in. It’s that small voice whispering, “Try again, keep going,” even on the roughest days. Without hope, there’s no drive, no oomph to get things done. This feeling is what fuels progress and keeps society ticking over. I’ve seen firsthand how hope works its magic in bringing people together. For instance, in Berlin, after the wall came down, the city faced immense challenges in reunifying. But the hope for a better, united future brought people together, fostering a spirit of collaboration and rebuilding that transformed Berlin into the vibrant me-

tropolis it is today. When a community rallies behind a shared dream or faces a challenge together with a glimmer of hope, it’s like watching a football team play with heart. Everyone’s in sync, helping one another, and that hope creates a bond stronger than any concrete. Without hope, we’d be scattered, lost even. But with it, we stand resilient, shoulder to shoulder, building something grander than ourselves. It’s that shared spark of hope that makes all the difference in thriving communities.

During Covid-19, the Government’s Pandemic Unemployment Payment supported jobless individuals, and the efficient vaccine rollout offered security. When the Government listens and acts on our needs, it inspires us. Conversely, when they fail, it’s disheartening. Hence, clear communication and proactive support are essen-

tial to help and uplift us.

While supporting people financially in times of economic difficulty is both welcome and a source of hope offering multiple supports in an election year will be seen as an abuse of hope and people might very well form the opinion that, if a Government plays fast and loose with the people’s desire for hope, maybe they cannot be trusted with a vote.

I’ve seen it myself, the way a lack of hope can tear people apart. When hope vanishes, despair takes its place, and you can feel the weight of it in the air. Communities crumble, folks stop caring about each other, and innovation grinds to a halt. I remember reading about towns that lost their industries; without hope, they became ghost towns. For example, the closure of coal mines in Castlecomer could have led to the entire community

disbanding. But it did not. The people had hope. But in the United States, cities like Detroit suffered immensely when the automotive industry declined, leaving many neighbourhoods deserted. People gave up, and the sense of togetherness just disappeared. It’s a stark reminder

“A heart fuelled by hope is one that thrives...

that, without hope, society can’t thrive. We need to learn from these stories and make sure we never let hope slip through our fingers.

So let’s look at how we can give hope through the Apple windfall tax. We all know the crisis we’re in. The cost of living is out of control, housing is a nightmare, and healthcare is a mess.

It’s enough to make anyone lose hope. But what if the Government decides not to use that €14 billion windfall from Apple to address these crucial issues?

Without investing in housing, homelessness and overcrowded living conditions will spike. Failing to improve primary care will lead to longer wait times and untreated illnesses.

Ignoring the rising cost of living will erode financial stability, making necessities harder to afford. Without targeted investment, hope for

a brighter future dims. The consequences are severe: a neglected and disillusioned population, with growing anxiety about living conditions, health, and expenses. Leaders must invest wisely to light the way towards better days.

Hope serves as the foundational element of our society. It functions as both the catalyst for transformation and the cohesive force binding us together. Without it, our path forward becomes unclear. Responsibility lies with everyone — from community members to policymakers — to ensure that this fervour remains vibrant. By fostering an environment where hope is shared and support is extended, we collectively cultivate a vision of a promising future. A heart fuelled by hope is one that thrives, and this vitality is essential for our collective progress and prosperity.

Kilkenny hurling supporters throughout the county and elsewhere were saddened last week when they heard of the passing of Mick Crotty, one of the county's finest hurlers during the seventies.

The James Stephens clubman enjoyed great success with Kilkenny, winning four senior All-Ireland medals, one National Hurling League medal, and was named as an All-Star in 1974. He was chosen as an All-Star "for his ability at playing on both the left and right wing, and for his flair and earnestness that he displayed in attack."

Mick who had played minor hurling with Kilkenny in 1963 and 1964 without medal success, and won his first medal with Kilkenny with the Nore-siders in the Oireachtas Final of 1969. This competition, which ceased in 1999, was usually played shortly after the All-Ireland final by the AllIreland finalists.

Mick Crotty had many great days with both Kilkenny and James Stephens, when he scored many vital goals and points. Many of these scores are worth remembering, but the vital point that he scored for Kilkenny at the very end of the drawn Leinster final against Wexford in 1972 has to be the real stand out score. He hit the ball over the bar from fifty yards while surrounded by three Wexford players. This score earned Kilkenny a replay, and it is hard to believe that the final score in that 1972 Leinster final was 6-13 each, and then Kilkenny won the replay, and of course the All-Ireland against Cork. This earned Mick his first All-Ireland medal, with Kilkenny scoring 2-9 without reply in the last twenty minutes to win what is still regarded as one of the greatest finals ever.

I also well remember with joy, Mick Crotty’s wonderful long hand pass to Eddie Keher, who then scored Kilkenny’s second half goal during the 1975 All-Ireland final against Galway. This was not Mick's only contribution on that particular day in Croke park as he scored no less than five points himself to round off an almost perfect display.

Mick Crotty was also part of the great Kilkenny team which demolished Clare in the National Hurling League final of 1976, with Michael O'Hehir writing an article a couple of weeks afterwards under the headline ‘Are Kilkenny going to take over?’. That situation seemed very likely at the time following Kilkenny’s great win over Clare, but sadly it was not to be, as they went down badly against Wexford in the Leinster final just a few short weeks afterwards, on one of the warmest days ever at 28- 29 Centigrade in Croke Park. Wexford also dominated Kilkenny in Leinster in 1977, but 1978 was different. Kilkenny were in some trouble for a while in the Leinster

Mick Crotty

- one of Kilkenny’s finest hurlers

final, but the introduction of Mick Crotty at the interval proved to be a master stroke. He played really well during that second period, with Matt Ruth tipping the ball to the Wexford net after Pat Nolan had parried a wonderful strike by Crotty. Kilkenny won that Leinster final by a single goal, but later went down to Cork in the All-Ireland final.

Kilkenny were never down for too long, and they returned to win the Leinster final the following year with Crotty having a fine game at full forward. He then collected his fourth  and last All-Ireland senior medal

when Kilkenny again defeated Galway in that year of 1979. Mick, however, was far from finished playing hurling, as he also enjoyed great success with his beloved James Stephens during this period. He had the satisfaction of being part of the Village team that won the County final in 1975 and who went on to win the club All-Ireland in 1976. This was a notable victory by James Stephens as they became the first Leinster team at the time to win the club All-Ireland title. The Kilkenny City club were also victorious in the county final of 1981, and then went on to win the Club All-

Ireland title again with Mick collecting his second club All-Ireland medal.  Mick Crotty who enjoyed a very successful hurling career with both Kilkenny and James Stephens was a younger brother of Kieran who at the age of 20 played full back on the successful Dicksboro County final team of 1950. This meant that 31 years separated Kieran’s county final win of 1950, and Mick’s win with James Stephens in 1981.  Mick Crotty "won two county Senior Championship finals in 1969, one with UCC earlier in the year when he was a student there,and the second

with James Stephens later on." Mick, who has gone to his eternal reward, is sadly missed by his wife Evelyn, and family Paddy, Catherine, Mick, Olivia, and James, and siblings Patricia, Pat, Nuala, Bernard and Jim as well as 15 grandchildren, in-laws, and many neighbours and friends. A large crowd attended his removal from his home on last Monday morning and also for his Requiem Mass in St Patrick's Church Kilkenny. Later, he was laid to rest in St Kieran's cemetery.

L.J.B.

1975 CHAMPIONS Back: Brian Cody, Tom McCormack, Mick Crotty, Pat Henderson, Eddie Keher, Frank Cummins, Pat Delaney, Phil ‘Fan’ Larkin. Front: Liam ‘Chunky’ O’Brien, Noel Skehan, Billy Fitzpatrick (captain), Mick ‘Cloney’ Brennan, Pat Lawlor, Kieran Purcell, Nickey Orr.

(Photo with thanks to The Stripy Men: Kilkenny Hurling History)

James Stephens – All-Ireland Club Champions 1982 Kneeling: J McCormack, J Byrne, P Brennan, T Hogan, B Leahy.

Sitting: S Brennan, M Neary, S Tyrrell, L Tyrrell, J O’Brien, W Cody, B Madigan, B Walton, F Larkin. Standing: M Flynn, D Brennan, J Hennessy, M Moore, J Leahy, D Collins, D McCormack, B Cody , E Kelly, B Brennan, A Larkin, Back: J McCarthy, JJ Cullen, T Brennan, M Hennessy, T McCormack, A Egan, P Neary, M Crotty, M Leahy, V Malone

Mick Crotty

Alison Hehir Studio celebrates 30 years

Alison O’Keeffe (née Hehir) embarked on her hairdressing journey above Pauls on Friary Street, training under the skilled guidance of Des Rush. Her early experiences laid the foundation for a successful career, leading her to refine her talents at Peter Mark. Over the past 30 years, Alison has cultivated a reputation that resonates throughout Kilkenny, becoming a well-known figure celebrated for her artistry and expertise in the beauty industry.

Alison never strayed far from Friary Street. Her mother, Breda Hehir - the beloved owner of Breda’s Traditional Chippy, a fixture on Friary Street until it closed around 2007 - encouraged Alison to seize the opportunity to open her own salon in a vacant unit just across the street, which now houses Lily Rose Boutique. In 1994, this encouragement transformed into reality when Alison opened ‘Alison Hehir Studio’, a brilliant play on her maiden name, suggested by her mother. Starting as a onewoman operation, she poured her heart and soul into the salon, establishing a warm and welcoming atmosphere that drew in clients from all around. Alison soon welcomed talented individuals into her team, including Stephanie Power, Ann Doyle, and Claire Kavanagh - who is still with her to this day. Together, they have created a tight-knit community that not only offers exceptional hairdressing services but also fosters lasting relationships with their clients.

After 20 successful years in her initial location, Alison made the bold decision to move to Unit 8 on Friary Street, where she has been thriving for the last 10 years. Her salon was forced to shut down three times during Covid-19 lockdowns and she has navigated through several economic recessions. Yet, through resilience and determination, she has just kept bouncing back! The survival and continued growth of a small hairdressing business for three decades is no small feat and speaks volumes about Alison’s dedication and hard work.

Two of her daughters, Jenny and Sara, work

Snip, snip, hooray! Alison Hehir Studio celebrates 30 years

alongside her, each bringing their own unique flair to the business. Alison’s experience and nurturing spirit blend seamlessly with her daughters’ fresh ideas and youthful energy, making the salon a beloved community hub. Her daughter Jenny has gathered a plethora of awards, including; the Irish Hairdressers Federation Star

Team 2023, 1st place in the Colour and Cut Competition and 2nd place in the World Skills Trade competition. To express gratitude to her staff - both past and present - as well as her loyal clients and supportive family and friends, Alison Hehir Studio is hosting a special 30th birthday celebration.

Join us on Saturday 26th October at 3.30pm for an afternoon of celebration, complete with drinks, canapés, and photos. Everyone is welcome to be a part of this remarkable milestone in Alison’s journey. We look forward to celebrating with you!

The crewJenny O'Keeffe, Liz O'Connell, Leagh Cody, Julie Murphy, Emma Stewart and Alison O'Keeffe. Missing is Sara O'Keeffe

Like mother, like daughter - Jenny and Alison

Main: Sara, Liz, Jenny, Claire and Alison at the Irish Hairdressers Federation Awards 2023

Inset: The collection of awards won by Jenny

Small beginnings - Alison O'Keeffe, Mary O'Driscoll (RIP), Claire Kavanagh and Ann Doyle

Claire Kavanagh

Coolagh Pattern -1987

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

The day started unpromisingly, with black clouds threatening to unleash a deluge, but these gradually gave way to a clear blue sky and the balm of warm sunshine- real pattern weather, as the man on the gate put it.

There was excitement among pattern committee men and women. Donnacha O’ Dualin, Radio Eireann’s noted folklorist and presenter of the Highways and Byways programme-a broadcasting legend in his own lifetime- had stated his intention to honour the Coolagh community with his presence at their open-air festival.

When he arrived at Jamsie O’ Neill’s field, his “take me to your leader” request was answered with a helpful gesture from a gate man at the entrance.

“There’s your man”, he indicated, pointing to a lone figure holding a microphone and rattling off at breakneck speed a commentary on a “close-run” pillow fight. The blow- by-blow account reaching the seasoned RTE broadcaster’s ears sounded

more, he thought, like a report on a tense and nerveracking showdown at the Olympics, so seriously did this ginger-haired commentator take the action he surveyed through binoculars from a makeshift wooden platform in the field.

Sean Holden had to take a break from his pillow fight report to introduce Donnacha to the Coolagh Pattern. Wiping the sweat from his furrowed brow, Sean guided the high profile visitor around the bustling happy venue.

In one section of the field, a camogie match was in progress. Strapping young women from the rival teams of Graigue-Ballycallan and Mooncoin wore deadly serious expressions as they zigzagged athletically and curvaceously around a mud sodden pitch.

Chanting supporters maintained a constant barrage of catcalls, slogans, heartfelt applause, and spontaneous-if less than helpful- hurler on the ditch advice to Kilkenny’s future sporting elite.

Jockeys for the Donkey Derby paraded beside their humble charges for the next race in another corner.

The Callan Primary School Brass band, lined up dutifully inside a red and blue weatherproof tent, was belting

out its own rendition of The Moon behind the Hill.

The pillow fights raged on without the benefit of Sean’s thrilling commentary. The combatants faced each other sitting on a long steel pole, belting away at their opponents. Feathers flew in all directions from burst pillows and cushions, wafting across the field on a light autumn breeze.

Defeated contestants fell off the pole into a soft bed of straw. Waves of laughter, cheering, and elated exclamations swept over the field from the pillow fight arena, blending with roars of encouragement to the camogie teams.

Neddy Walsh had invented the “pillow pole”, Sean informed Donnacha. It had taken him three years to get his design off the drawing board and into service at Coolagh. It was proving a success, much to the relief of the Pattern Committee whose members wondered how it would stand up to the rough and tumble of a hectic day’s usage. Field trials had pointed to a probable satisfactory performance, but even the best-laid plans could “misfire”, critics had warned.

But Neddy’s invention worked like a dream. Seasoned pillow fighters, many of whom had travelled from the far corners of Ireland to test their skills-praised the texture and quality of the pole, which had been oiled to render it slippery and therefore more challenging for them.

“Do you think I could have a word with the donkey trainers and jockeys, Sean?” the visitor tentatively asked. “No sooner said than done”, retorted the darling of Coolagh Pattern Day. Forty years of commentating at Coolagh had made Sean an acknowledged expert on the revived tradition.

Donncha learned immediately that Mansion Harry, trained by James Mylan, had won a race by ten lengths. The secret, according to James, was to achieve a “quick away” and to feed the asses well.”

A donkey called Knockbutton Flyer had run nicely too, as had Sam’s Delight, introduced by Sean as a “grand

old piebald ass”. But the main talking point and centre of attention at the Pattern Derby was Jessie, a light greyish donkey with a pleasant, unassuming friendly temperament.

The RTE man approached a delighted teenage girl who was standing beside a triumphant Jessie, clapping the animal on the back. “And what’s your name”? he asked.

“Claire Ducey”, she replied shyly. Claire told Donnacha that this was her first race and she could hardly believe she had won. Jessie had seemed to come out of nowhere to take the lead.

She further informed the folklorist that this multi-prize winning donkey, trained

by Paddy Condon, had three Coolagh classics to her credit. “A sterling achievement”, Donnacha conceded haughtily.

Admiring the action too was Jim Conway, one of the stalwarts of the Kells Pipe Band. He had procured his present set of pipes fifty years before, and he said he wouldn’t part with them for “a bag of emeralds”. He had piped in Dublin at the Talton Games in the 20s with the band. The Kells pipers had been playing marches and hymns since 1900.

(To be continued)

My book Callan in Pictures and Words is available from Amazon.

Tug of war at the Pattern of Coolagh

Paddy Brennan of Bauntha training foor the 1930 Coolagh Pattern

Bill Maher Ned Leahy and James O Neill at the Coolagh Pattern

Clogh writers to read from ‘Where I am’

Clogh writers are never ones to sit on their laurels. After their recent performance to coincide with Culture Night in September, the scribes from the North Kilkenny village are to take to the boards yet again. Reading from their publication Where I Am, the Clogh members will assemble at Castlecomer library on Tuesday October 22nd at 6pm.

The publication is just one in a number of publications produced by the Clogh writers. Where I Am evolved over a year where like minded people joined forces to write down ideas and in doing so compiled a beautiful publication. Coordinator of the group, Jane Meally, explained that the publication Where I Am evolved over the past year where like minded people joined forces to write down ideas and in doing so compiled a beautiful publication. Jane explained that the writing from the group was inspired through

exploration of themes such as place, mining traditions, heritage, farming and anything that was significant to people of the area.

Speaking to The Kilkenny Observer,the Project coordinator Denise Curtin Dunne said she was thrilled to have been involved with such an enthusiastic group of writers.

“I noticed a flow and growth of material that came from memory, chat, love of place and people, and from an appreciation of the ordinary moments that our days are built on,” said Denise.

The group, which was founded in 1995, continues to meet regularly where they read and write poems and short stories.

The reading at Castlecomer is open to all and if people wish to read on the night, they would be very welcome . We are happy to print a copy of one of the Clogh poems which will be read on the night .

Chimney of Life

Shafted in sturdy black seams

You stand high above a Basin shaped valley

Looped in a rim of hilly landscape

Stone by stone you stretch heavenward

Your tall elegance a testimony

To a culture born in tunnels of darkness

In breathless miners

You depict a unique heritage

That aired earthy body space

Miles beneath the surface Of Laois soil

Now, roads of stories

Of men and boys stooped In pitch black dungeons

In inky black waters

Old workings shape new life

Beneath green fields as Crevices form fossils dating History, mystery and evolution.

Mai Dormer

The Chimney of LifeMai Dormer

Insightful and personal poetry book long overdue as Kin is launched

By Ger Cody

“Romany and Traveller voices can often be overlooked. KIN is a long overdue collection of insightful and personal poetry that goes some way to collating the female experience of nomadic ethnicities both historically and in the present day.”

These words, from JohnHenry Phillips, author, film-maker and television presenter, perfectly describe a new book of poetry just recently launched at the Kevin Street Library in Dublin. The book of poems – aptly named Kin was well received by a large contingent who turned out to praise this latest book which will grace many a shelf in book stores all over the country.

Readers of The Kilkenny Observer may recall that a few months ago, we carried an article on a celebration of Traveller Culture which took place in the Neighbourhood Hall at the Butts Green, Kilkenny. In that edition, we highlighted a young traveller woman poet; Samantha Joyce. Samantha, a local Traveller woman worked with Butler Gallery to explore her writing with an artist from the Gallery. Samantha is a writer who seeks to reflect the worldview of a young Traveller woman in her own community and wider society. Her writing reflects the themes of identity, gender, culture, and the effects of discrimination.

Samantha produced a beautiful piece to read at the Traveller Pride Gathering and performed in the gallery during Traveller Pride Week. We are delighted to announce that at the launch of Kin, Samantha’s poem ‘Pavee Lackeen’ was performed by its author and received praise from all in attendance. KIN is a trail-blazing,

diverse anthology of poetry and prose writings and artworks by roughly fifty women writers and artists from Romani, Traveller and Nomadic Communities with a most helpful editorial note

by Raine Geoghegan and an enlightening introduction by Dr Rosaleen McDonagh.

Eva Bourke, Poet and member of Aosdána had this to say “The editors and Salmon Poetry have done an invaluable job gathering

of the work should not be underestimated,” said a proud Ms Joyce. Samantha paid special thanks to the books co-editor Fiona Bolger who was instrumental in having her submit the poem ‘Pavee Lackeen’.

the material for this book from contributors who are dispersed to places as far apart as Europe, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, the US and Europe—testimony to the transnational character of this ‘non-territorial cultural nation’ (Celia Grigore). Many of them are prize-winning poets, novelists and short story writers, academics, teachers, community workers and activists, taking to the page with confidence and stated pride in their Romani or Traveller origin, producing works of dazzling literary and artistic standard, thereby challenging stereotypical narratives that have been imposed on them.”

Speaking to The Kilkenny Observer, Samantha said that she was thrilled to be included in the anthology. “It is a lovely production, and first off I want to congratulate Salmon Poetry for their work on this publication. This is the culmination of the work of over 50 female writers and artists from all over the country and the enormity

Lucy Collins, Associate Professor, University College Dublin spoke of the book's bond of kinship “This is a book shaped by the bonds of kinship—the joy of authentic connection and the grief of sustained loss. By giving voice to memory and tradition, and by mourning and celebrating those who have gone before,

Pavee Lackeen

By Samantha Joyce

these works explore ideas of belonging across time, even when they are speaking from places of pain and discrimination. In their rich and varied forms, they reveal what it is like to be ‘misplaced bodies in a misplaced city’ and yet to refuse to be silenced. It is impossible not to be carried to new worlds by this book, and to be transformed by the energies of its language.”

The Kilkenny Observer wishes to congratulate all involved with this publication and of course to Samantha Joyce, whose poem we include.

I am a proud Pavee Lackeen, even though you may not see. When it comes to discrimination, it ain’t no game with me. I am a proud Pavee Lackeen, can’t you see?

Despite the animosity, I’m a proud Pavee Lackeen. I wish the world would seek to understand me.

I am proud to be me regardless of society, and what faces me.

I know I’ve got the backing of my community. Being individual is hard , but I will always seek to be unique in a world where being different is wrong .

I was always taught to stand out and be strong. My life sometimes prevents me, But I will always fight for what is right And for my right to not have to fight to be me.

In a world where my unity unites me

I strive to be the best version of

Pavee Lackeen Me.

Samantha Joyce pictured with Editor and curator, Raine Geoghan

Kin; an anthology of poetry, story and art

Lebanon: A chronology of key events

PART TWO

2008 October: Lebanon establishes diplomatic relations with Syria for first time since both countries gained independence in 1940s.

2009 March-April: International court to try suspected killers of former Prime Minister Hariri opens in Hague. Former Syrian intelligence officer Mohammed Zuhair alSiddiq arrested in connection with killing, and four pro-Syrian Lebanese generals held since 2005 freed after court rules there is not enough evidence to convict them.

2009 June: The pro-Western March 14 alliance wins parliamentary elections and Saad Hariri forms unity government.

2010 October: Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah calls on Lebanon to boycott UN Hariri tribunal, saying it is “in league with Israel”.

2011 January: Government collapses after Hezbollah and allied ministers resign.

2012 Summer: The Syrian conflict that began in March 2011 spills over into Lebanon in deadly clashes between Sunni Muslims and Alawites in Tripoli and Beirut.

2012 October: Security chief Wissam al-Hassan is killed in car bombing. Opposition blames Syria.

2012 December: Several days of deadly fighting between supporters and opponents of the Syrian president in Tripoli. UN praises Lebanese families for having taken in more than a third of the 160,000 Syrian refugees who have streamed into the country.

2013 March: Syrian warplanes and helicopters fire rockets into northern Lebanon, days after Damascus warns Beirut to stop militants crossing the border to fight Syrian government forces. Najib Mikati’s government resigns amid tensions over upcoming elections.

2013 April: Sunni Muslim politician Tammam Salam

2011 June: Najib Mikati forms cabinet dominated by Hezbollah. The UN’s Special Tribunal for Lebanon issues four arrest warrants over the murder of Rafik Hariri. The accused are members of Hezbollah, which says it won’t allow their arrest.

is tasked with forming a new government.

2013 May: At least 10 people die in further sectarian clashes in Tripoli between supporters and opponents of the Syrian regime. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah vows victory in Syria. Parliament votes to put off elections due in June until November 2014 because of security concerns over the conflict in Syria.

2013 June: A number of people are killed in clashes between Hezbollah gunmen and Syrian rebels within Lebanon. At least 17 Lebanese soldiers are killed in clashes with Sunni militants in the port city of Sidon.

2013 July - European Union lists the military wing of Hezbollah as a terrorist organisation. This makes it illegal for Hezbollah sympathisers in Europe to send the group money, and enables the freezing of the group’s assets there.

2013 August: Dozens of people are killed in bomb attacks at two mosques in Tripoli. The twin attacks, which are linked to tensions over the Syrian conflict, are the deadliest in Lebanon since the end of the civil war in 1990.

2013 September: The United Nations refugee agency says there are at least 700,000 Syrian refugees in Lebanon.

2013 November: Double suicide bombing outside Iranian embassy in Beirut kills at least 22 people. It is one of the worst attacks in Shia southern Beirut since the conflict in Syria began.

2013 December: Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah says the Saudi intelligence services were behind the bombings outside the Iranian embassy in Beirut. Senior Hezbollah commander Hassan Lakkis is shot dead near Beirut. Hezbollah accuses Israel of assassinating him. Israel denies any involvement.

Former Lebanese minister and opposition figure Mohamad Chatah – a Sunni Muslim who was also a staunch critic of Syrian President Bashar alAssad – is killed by a car bomb in central Beirut.

2014 February: Sunni Muslim politician Tammam Salam finally assembles new power-sharing cabinet following 10 months of talks.

2014 April: UN announces that number of Syrian refugees registered in Lebanon

has surpassed one million. The accelerating influx means that one in every four people living in Lebanon is now a refugee from the Syrian conflict.

2014 May: President Suleiman ends his term of office, leaving a power vacuum. Several attempts are made in parliament over subsequent months to choose a successor.

2014 August: Syrian rebels overrun border town of Arsal. They withdraw after being challenged by the military but take 30 soldiers and police captive.

2014 September: Prime Minister Salam appeals to world leaders at the UN to help Lebanon face a ‘’terrorist onslaught’’ and the flood of refugees from Syria.

2014 October: Clashes in Tripoli between the army and Islamist gunmen, in a spillover of violence from the Syrian conflict.

2014 November: Parliament extends own term to 2017, citing Syria-related security concerns.

2015 January: New restrictions on Syrians entering Lebanon come into effect, further slowing the flow of people trying to escape the war.

2016 June: Suicide bombings in Al-Qaa, allegedly by Syrian nationals, aggravate already strained relations between Lebanese and more than one million Syrian refugees in the country.

2017 June: New electoral law approved by Parliament after much delay.

2020 January: Mass protests against economic stagnation and corruption bring down the government of Saad Hariri, who is succeeded by the academic Hassan Diab.

2020 August: Diab government quits after months of protests over falls in the value of the currency and the impact of the Covid-19 lockdown culminate in rioting after a massive chemical explosion in the Beirut port.

2015 January: Israel launches air strikes on Syrian side of the Golan, killing Hezbollah fighters and an Iranian general. Several clashes ensue across Israeli- Lebanese border.

Concluded

An unsung hero of Kilkenny hurling history

BY LIAM BURKE

Danny O’Connell managed the Kilkenny senior hurlers to eleven All-Ireland victories, beginning with the 1904 championship and continuing right up to, and including 1939. His very successful record stood the test of time until 2015 when the great Brian Cody also managed Kilkenny to eleven All-Ireland victories. The above Kilkenny managers stand apart from all the others, with Fr Tom Maher in third place having  seven All-Ireland successes. It can now be said that Danny O’Connell played a major part in laying the foundation for Kilkennys wonderful success on the hurling fields over the years.

Danny was born in Blackmill Street in Kilkenny City in 1875. His father, a native of Ballingarry in County Tipperary owned a licensed premises in what is now Campions public house, and his mother was from Dublin. From an early age Danny took a great interest in Gaelic Games, and was soon to become involved in every aspect of GAA activity, from being a founder member of Erin’s Own Club in Kilkenny City, to refereeing both hurling and football games on a regular basis.

Danny's son, Danny junior, a retired veterinarian who lives in Bagenalstown, is still hale and hearty, told me a few years ago that the Erins Own club later morphed into what became known as the Dicksboro club.

Danny was elected the Secretary of the Kilkenny County GAA board in 1902 at the age of 27, and he held this position until 1913. When the County Board appointed Danny as the Manager of the Kilkenny team for the 1904 championship, he had a big task on his hands as the Noresiders had been defeated in no less than five All-Ireland finals up to then. The All-Ireland final of the previous year, 1903, is significant, but not remembered with pride in Kilkenny, as Cork had a very easy win in Dungarvan on a scoreline of 8-9 to 0-8. Little did Kilkenny supporters realise at the time that the county would be AllIreland champions for the very first time in 1904, following the Cork heavy defeat the previous year, but that was it, and since then ,as you know, we have been senior hurling champions for another 35 times.

Dominated

Under the skilful leadership of Danny O’Connell, Kilkenny went on to dominate the hurling scene for the next decade or so, winning the All-Ireland finals of 1904, 1905, 1907, 1909, 1911, 1912 and 1913 competently beating teams from Cork on four occasions, and Tipperary three times.

Dispute

Kilkenny might also have won the 1908 All-Ireland but for a dispute. It had been decided that provincial teams would be picked, and the winners would be presented with the Railway Shield, and as the Leinster team had been represented by 15 Kilkenny players, and the fact that they had won the competition, they felt that they should be allowed to keep the Shield.

Above right: The highly popular ‘Matt the Millers’ on John’s Bridge, Kilkenny was once run by Danny O’Connells brother and was named O’Connell House. Indeed, Danny himself ran a public house on the corner of Chapel Lane on Kilkenny’s High Street. It later became a pharmacy run by the O’Neill family.

Inset: Kitty Rice, daughter of Danny O’Connell, who was married to Jim Rice, chairman and selector of O’Loughlins GAA, during the early years and who was also a trustee of the Kilkenny GAA board from 1981 to 1996

However, the Leinster Council did not agree, so Kilkenny were ruled out of the Championship, as they refused to play against Dublin in the Leinster Final.

Tom Ryall in his book Kilkenny the GAA Story 1884- 1984 wrote that Kilkenny had been beaten by Wexford in the first round of the Leinster Championship but they objected to a Wexford player who had been sent off during a football match which had been played before the hurling match. Kilkenny wanted a replay, but Wexford were thrown out of the Championship. Kilkenny was eventually given custody of the Shield, and it can be seen in Nowlan park. Despite his wonderful success with Kilkenny, business commitments forced Mr O’Connell to step down as County Secretary and hurling manager following the 1913 All Ireland victory. He did however, stay closely associated with the GAA in Kilkenny at club level, both as a referee and administrator. Tom Ryall also wrote that "Danny returned in 1932, and completed another year as County Secretary. He also served as a trustee of the County Board from 1906 to 1913 and later in 1919, and again from 1932 to 1937. Danny was also an outstanding man on financial affairs, and helped in no small way to ensure that the County Board was financially solvent during those particular years. He was also appointed Chairman of the Kilkenny Camogie board which was formed in 1932."

After Danny O’Connell

a good hurler at under age level and when they matured, every player was treated as fair as possible.

Legend

Danny O’Connell is a legend in Kilkenny's hurling history, and the fact that his memory is not commemorated by either a cup, or a ground, or indeed a local championship should have been put right long before now. Danny's son, Danny junior, still lives in Bagenalstown, and one daughter Kitty was married to Jim Rice who was the first Chairman of O'Loughlins, and he was also a trustee of the Country Board for a long number of years.

stepped down as the Kilkenny manager, the Noresiders did not win another All-Ireland until the 1922 final (delayed until 1923 because of the Civil war) when they beat Tipperary with a last minute goal. Paddy ‘Icy’ Lanigan, a former All-Ireland winning hurler and Mick Dalton were in charge of the Kilkenny team during that particular year. Kilkenny also contested the All-Ireland final of 1926, when they were beaten by Cork who also emerged victorious in 1931 following two replays.

It has to be said that Cork ‘butchered’ Kilkenny in 1931 when many players were badly injured during the course of the three finals. Dick Morrissey’s back was broken and he never played hurling again, while Lory Meagher suffered three broken ribs. Paddy Larkin, and Martin White were also badly injured. Kilkenny played with a very under strength team the third day.

Back Again.

Danny returned as manager the following year with Kilkenny beating Clare in the 1932 final. This began another very successful run by Kilkenny who came out on top to win the AllIreland finals of 1933 and 1935, with Danny at the helm. They also won the 1939 final, which was significant because it was won with many new players, including six from the great All-Ireland Minor winning team of 1935. Many of the great players from the early years of that decade had retired. O'Connell's skill and determination was proven by driving this team to victory and he retired following that great success.

Danny's retirement was lamented by many and it was said that maybe if he had stayed on for another year Kilkenny might have beaten Limerick the following year in the 1940 final. It was claimed that his secret as manager was his ability to motivate team members and to make changes quickly on the field of play. He also had the ability to spot the makings of

Danny was also a breeder of Greyhounds for a time, and he helped to form the Seven Houses coursing club in 1922. He was also instrumental in the formation of the Ballyragget Coursing club. He ran a very successful licence premises in High Street, and was uncle of Jimmy O'Connell the Kilkenny goalkeeper during the very successful thirties. Danny died in 1960.

Thanks: The Kilkenny Observer wish to thank the following for their help with photos for this article: ‘The Stripy Men: Kilkenny Hurling History’, jbs photos Kilkenny, Joe Rice of Ballyrafton and Jenkinstown, a grandson of Danny O’Connell.

manage the Kilkenny

for the All-Ireland final of 1946 when

and Jack Lynch won his sixth All-Ireland medal in a

Dan O’Connell Jnr, son of Danny, helps to serve the players with fresh hurleys in 1946

Above: 1932-33 LEAGUE CHAMPIONS

Back: Danny O’Connell (County Board Secretary), Fr Matt Doyle, Podge Byrne, Tommy Leahy, Jimmy O’Connell, Lory Meagher, Peter O’Reilly, Paddy Phelan, Fr William Brennan, Seán Gibbons (County Board Chairman).

The Kilkenny team of 1939. Back row (L-R): Danny O’Connell ( manager) Peter Blanchfield, Billy Burke, Jimmy Kelly, Jimmy O’Connell, ( nephew of Danny) Terry Leahy, Paddy Phelan, Jimmy Walsh Middle row (L-R): Mick Dalton, Bobby Hinks, Jimmy Phelan, Jack Mulcahy, Sean O’Brien, Paddy Larkin, Paddy Grace, Bobby Brannigan, Mick Oakes. Front: Jim Langton.

Photo taken before Kilkenny beat Galway in the 1939 All Ireland semi-final on a score of 1-16 to 3-1. The match was played in St Cronan’s park, Roscrea.

Danny O’Connell gives some advice to members of the Kilkenny hurling team during training before the 1946 All-Ireland final. L-R: Jack Mulcahy, Bill Walsh, Jack Gargan, Jimmy Kelly, Dan Kennedy. Jim Langton and Jimmy Heffernan. Danny was called on to return to

team

Cork were victorious,

row.

A photograph of the O’Connell family taken in Dublin in 1957. Daughter Kitty, son Liam, his wife Cathy, Daughter Sr Mary Louise, Danny, daughter Bridget, and son Danny Jnr., a retired Vetinarian who lives in Bagenalstown

mein

Prep:25 mins

Cook:15 mins

Serves: 4

This Taiwanese-style chow mein uses a combination of stir-frying and steaming, so there’s less oil involved. Pork would also work well instead of chicken.

Ingredients

• 1 large skinless chicken breast (approx. 175g), sliced into 1cm-thick strips

• 1 egg white

• 2-3 tbsp vegetable oil, plus 1 tsp for the marinade

• 1 shallot, finely chopped

• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

• ½ white onion (approx. 50g), thickly sliced

• 2 pieces dried shiitake mushrooms, rehydrated with ½ cup of warm water for 15 mins, then sliced into 1cm strips

• 1 carrot (approx. 80g), thickly sliced into ½ cm thick matchsticks

• 2 tbsp light soy sauce

• 1 tbsp cooking rice wine

• ½ tsp ground white pepper

• 1½ tsp chicken bouillon

• 1 tsp caster sugar

Buffalo chicken Come Dine WithMe Chicken chow

Prep: 20 mins

Cook: 1 hr and 5 mins plus at least 2 hrs brining

Serves: 4

These spicy wings are ideal party food for any celebration. The chicken is brined to make it extra juicy and the smoky sweetness of the sauce adds heat.

Ingredients

For the brine - to make them

juicy

• 1 ½k g chicken thighs and drumsticks

• 180g s ea salt flakes

• 90g s oft dark brown sugar

• 2 t bsp chilli flakes

For the spice mix - to make them

tasty

• 2 t bsp sweet smoked paprika

• 1 t bsp ground cumin

• 1 t bsp sea salt flakes

• 1 t bsp dark brown sugar

• 2 packs ready-cooked egg noodles (approx. 557g)

• ½ sweetheart cabbage (approx. 200g), thickly sliced

• 1 spring onion, cut into 2cm pieces

• 1 tbsp black vinegar or Worcestershire sauce

STEP 1 the sliced chicken in a mixing bowl and add the egg white, 1

tsp salt and 1 tsp oil. Massage into the chicken to make sure it’s thoroughly coated. Set aside.

STEP 2

Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large

lidded wok or a deep frying pan set over a medium heat on your largest hob ring. Once the oil is slightly glistening, add the chopped shallot and stir until slightly golden in colour, about 3 mins. Add the chopped garlic and fry for 30 seconds.

STEP 3

Still on medium heat, add the marinated chicken to the wok. Keep stir-frying until 70% of the chicken has changed from opaque to white. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet. If the chicken is sticking to the pan, add another 1 tbsp oil.

STEP 4

Add the onion, mushrooms and carrots and toss with the chicken. Using two spatulas makes this easier. Stir-fry for another 30 seconds, on medium heat.

STEP 5

Turn off the heat, then add the soy sauce, rice wine, white pepper, chicken bouillon, sugar and 150ml water. Stir gently then turn the heat back on to high.

STEP 6

Add the egg noodles and, using tongs, gently toss for about 15 seconds to make sure they’re thoroughly coated with the sauce. Add the cabbage on top of the noodles without mixing it in, put a lid on and let it steam for 30 seconds. Remove the lid, then mix the softened cabbage in with the noodles for about 10 seconds. Replace the lid and steam for another 30 se

STEP 7

Remove the lid and gently toss, being careful not to break the noodles. Add the chopped spring onion on top and splash in the 1 tbsp black vinegar or Worcestershire sauce on the wall of the wok, in a half circle motion. Give a final gentle toss to work in the spring onion. Serve straightaway on a platter.

• 75g b utter

• 125ml hot c hilli sauce

• 1 t bsp maple syrup

Method

STEP 1

Put the chicken in a big bowl. In a pan, heat 1 litre of water with the salt, brown sugar and chilli flakes. When it’s dissolved, add 2 litres of cold water and pour over the chicken. Put in the fridge and leave for at least 2 hrs, but ideally a day or two. When you’re ready to cook, take the chicken out of the water and pat dry all over with kitchen paper.

STEP 2

Heat oven to 180C/160C fan/ gas 4. Put the smoked paprika, ground cumin, sea salt and dark brown sugar on a baking tray. Mix them together, then roll the dried chicken pieces in the spices, making sure everything

• For the sauce - to add some heat

is covered. Roast the chicken for 1 hr or until crispy and caramelised.

STEP 3

Meanwhile, for the sauce, gently melt the butter in a small pan with the hot sauce and maple syrup.

When the chicken pieces come out of the oven, drizzle this sauce all over them and give them a shake. Serve with a side of creamed corn.

Multi-million dollar franchise saved with must-see show

Amazon was likely hoping that 2023 spy series Citadel would be a hit. With a reported budget of $300 million (making it the second most expensive TV show ever) and multiple sequel series and spin-offs greenlit before it even hit Prime Video, it was almost definitely a shock for the company when Citadel was poorly received. It currently stands at 51% on Rotten Tomatoes, which usually likely wouldn’t be enough for a follow-up.

However with the first spin-off teased at the end of the first season of Citadel, the company had no choice but to plough on with the franchise... great, because Citadel: Diana is the action-packed spy show. Set at the same time

One

of

as the main show (and featuring some nods to it, like memorials to certain characters), Citadel: Diana is about an Italian woman who was hired to spy agency Citadel and placed as a double agent for its rival Manticore... shortly before the former fell. She’s been working since to maintain her cover until an opportunity arises for her to try and escape.

We also learn about how this Manticore agency, the Citadel universe’s version of Spectre, works. Citadel itself is about an everyday man who slowly regains his memories and realises that he was a secret agent for Citadel who had his memories wiped after it fell to Manticore, and he begins to piece things back together. Over six episodes

we learned a lot about the back story of the agencies but there was surprisingly little spy work or action in the spy action series.

Our heroine of Citadel: Diana, the titular Diana, apparently took that to heart, because she undertakes more infiltration, detective work and combat in one episode than in half of Citadel. In episode one alone we see her spearheading a long-winded investigation into a plane crash, deceiving her sister and her fellow agent among other people, and engaging in gun-and fistights as well as a car chase in Switzerland.

As a result, Citadel: Diana is everything that Citadel should have been — it’s a bona fide spy show. Despite being set in a

relatively limited locale (it’s known as the Italian Alps spin-off of Citadel, as each is distinct geographically) you see a fair bit of globetrotting; there are loads of semi-futuristic gadgets that the characters use (one of our baddies seems to be an Italian version of James Bond’s Q) and there’s a league of baddies with evil representatives from around the place.

Hopefully, Amazon uses the high quality of Citadel: Diana and continues it for Citadel season 2, which is expected to come out at some point in 2025. If that series can maintain all the key pillars of a spy story like espionage, gadgets, travel and great action set pieces that Diana has, it could really improve on the first series.

the great books gets a Netflix adaptation

It has been revealed that Netflix is adapting one of the greatest books of all time as a TV show. According to Variety, Pride And Prejudice is the next big show being created by Netflix. Pride And Prejudice is no stranger to being adapted, the seminal novel from Jane Austen was a successful TV series back in the ‘90s – the one with Colin Firth and his

see-through blouse! It was also a 2005 movie starring Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Bennet and Succession’s Matthew Macfadyen as Mr Darcy. While no cast is yet attached to the show, it is being written by Dolly Alderton who wrote the rather brilliant Everything I Know About Love and also adapted it into a TV show.

Pride And Prejudice is, quite rightly, seen as one of the greatest novels of all time and often mis-categorised as simply a romance novel.

It’s way more than that, mixing up the titular themes of pride and prejudice to create a vibrant look at what class and love meant in 19th Century England, through the lens of the Bennet family

Bond movies to stream on Amazon Prime 5

and their five daughters.

Netflix previously adapted Persuasion, another Austen novel, as a movie in 2022. That one starred Dakota Johnson and was directed by Carrie Cracknell. Netflix fans need a bit of good news on the TV front, given the streamer has decided to cancel Kaos, its big show that was based on numerous Greek tragedies.

1. Dr No

This sees Sean Connery step into the role for the first time and is a hugely entertaining classic.

Bond squares off against the titular villain, an elusive genius with an evil scheme to disrupt the US space programme. This dangerous mission takes 007 to Jamaica to investigate the disappearances of another British agent. Once in the exotic location, he encounters the beautiful Honey Ryder (Ursula Andress) and learns of Dr. No’s island headquarters.

2. Goldfinger

Goldfinger was the peak of the Sean Connery era of James Bond, and introduced characters such as Pussy Galore (Honor Blackman) and Oddjob (Harold Sakata), who have instantly become legendary figures within the franchise. To this day, it’s ranked by many fans as one of the best Bond movies ever and was also the first in the series to win an Oscar (for Best Sound Editing). It perfectly blends all the elements to create a thrilling caper. Tasked by MI6 to observe a gold-obsessed tycoon Auric Goldfinger (Gert Fröbe), Bond jets off to Miami, Florida where he encounters the magnate for the first time, and following subsequent meetings, and a few threats from Goldfinger’s assistant Oddjob, the spy learns of Operation Grand Slam, a dastardly scheme to contaminate the Fort Knox gold reserve.

3. On Her Majesty’s Secret Service

Arguably the ugly duckling of the Bond franchise. It saw Australian actor George Lazenby take up the tricky task of replacing Sean Connery (though the Scot would return for 1971’s Diamonds Are Forever”), and in the end proved to be Lanzenby’s only time in the role. This is one of the most underrated Bond movies, and Lanzenby makes for a pretty strong incarnation of the spy. It’s also noted for being one of the most faithful adaptations of Bond author Ian Fleming’s work. A playful Bond movie that sees the MI6 agent perform some genuine spy work for once.

4. GoldenEye

Following a tumultuous six-year hiatus, Bond returned, this time played by Pierce Brosnan (who was a great Bond unfortunately seen in most terrible movies). “GoldenEye” was the first Bond flick to strike out on its own and not take any elements from Ian Fleming’s work, and to this day remains a riveting spy thriller with an especially impactful opening. It’s also added Judi Dench to the mix as Bond’s handler M.

5. Casino Royale

Casino Royale is another Bond movie that kickstarted a new era as Daniel Craig — the most recent Bond — stepped into the role. Like most of his predecessors, his first mission under the 007 codename proved to be his most successful, and Casino Royale”isn’t just Craig’s best, but the best the franchise has yet to offer, at least, in my opinion. Framed as a franchise reboot, things are a little more grounded here, with Bond less experienced, and more vulnerable than we’ve ever seen him before.

White Twine and Old Suitcases

The Kilkenny Involvement Centre and Recovery College South East have produced a wonderful anthology of poetry and prose. ‘White Twine and old suitcases’ comprises of 128 pages and 60 authors and is complemented by some wonderful photos and artwork by TASK camera club. It is printed by Modern Printers. It is definitely recommended reading for all lovers of poetry. The Kilkenny Observer is happy to run the poems each week to promote creative writing and to highlight these wonderful centres. Available in all Kilkenny book shops. €10

I was Born in 1954

I was born in 1954 and look I’m still alive

I used to drink water straight from the tap

Lord only knows how I survived

I went out without a mobile phone

And didn’t come home until dark

I played in the street in the winter

And in summer played over the park

I got in the bath every Friday,

When my mum dragged it in from the yard

I walked to school every morning

And never thought that was too hard

We only had two telly channels

And they were both in black and white

And the highlight was watching The London Palladium,

At 8 o’clock on Sunday night

The nearest I got to an iPad

Was one time when I got a stye

And of course I wore National Health Glasses

On account of this turn in my eye

My Nan lived upstairs in our house

And the toilet was out in the back

We used to pick up empty lemonade bottles

And get tuppence when we took them back

We went to Canvey Island for our holidays

And stayed on a Caravan site

Again with the outside toilet

We hated that walk late at night

We set off all our own fireworks

And in Winter we made our own sleds

We learned all life’s lessons and counted our blessings

When Mum tucked us into our beds

But above all of this we were happy

,specially when Mum learned to drive

I was born in 1954 and look I’m still alive

Chris Ross (The East

Ar Meisce

i gcuimhne Mary Walsh O Keefe agus John Walsh

Ar meisce ar bhord loinge ag fágaint Queenstown

Ar meisce ag teitheadh ó chleamhnais, eaglaisí agus

alcólaithe foreigneach

Ar meisce ag an dtonntaoscadh, scread an fiolair

Bhíomar lagaithe nuair a scaoileadh isteach an Tír Nua sinn

Ar meisce ag an jazz, amoré, hallejluia

Ar meisce ag síoda, cadás, líneadach

Ag déanamh leapacha i dtithe na n-uasal

Ar meisce ach gan a bheith ar meisce ar chor ar bith

D’ólamar an t-airgead ar lá an Luain

Ar eagla ná beadh aon faoiseamh amárach ná aon lá eile

Ar meisce d’fhéachamar i dtreo na spéire

Ar meisce chaill cuid again gach aon ní, ár n-ainm

Shiúlamar siar amach go Wisconsin ag lorg cúnamh

Ar bhundúchasaigh na tíre

Ar meisce leis na fáinleoga a thagann agus a imíonn

Ó Chathair Nua Eabhrach, Maraon leis na fiacha dubha a ghreamaíonn a gcrúba

De chraiceann na h-áite is a dhéanann a leaba dhi

Róisín Sheehy

Safe in my Mind

I was only five years old, though I could have been just four.

She stood in our cottage kitchen, relaxing, one hand on the dining table as if forgetting, what she was about to do next.

I don’t remember her brushing her hair or comforting me in my early years.

I am without vividness of her lighting the fire or having her breakfast porridge.

Yet she seemed master of this room of activity as she stood there on that particular day. Just as she does today in my monochrome memory.

Rays of sunlight entered the doorway, Illuminating her working face.

In that brief moment of my misunderstanding, She soaked all the solar warmth on offer, Then quickly gathered her thoughts.

I see the humble dwelling and the faded colours of a bygone age, yet a vision of clarity, I see it with regularity. Who was she?

Perhaps just a memory, a trick of the light

Or was she truly or really my mother?

When a young mother is suddenly called from this world. In addition to every other emotion

There is confusion for family and friends They must bear and mourn the loss.

Pat Shortall

End Poet)

Kilkenny Sport Focus

Michael O’Leary

Castlecomer Golf Club

BY PAUL BOLGER

The discs in our spine have a bit of a bad reputation. We only ever hear about them when something goes wrong (I suppose why would we need to think about them otherwise?). Is it possible to care for these structures? To keep them healthy and to reduce the risk of them causing issues for us?  The short answer is yes –there is plenty that we can do.

Your Discs – Strong. Mobile. Alive.

Before we skip ahead, let's look at what our discs do. Each disc is actually an organ. They are incredibly robust structures formed from a mix of thick, strong yet semi-mobile multilayered fibrocartilage outer (think about tyre rubber) and a semi-gelatinous inner (the disc’s very own shock absorber and force distributor). These structures gradually blend into one another, with no real distinctive border between them.  These discs of ours are incredible structures. Alongside many other structures, they allow the spine to be flexible yet stable and strong.  Our discs are very much

Spinal disc health – What matters?

Caring for the health of the discs in the spine

A month ago, Castlecomer Golf Club were celebrating when the Ladies Team won The All-Ireland Intermediate Foursomes competition for the very first time. It was a phenomenal acheivement by the Castlecomer Club, who came out on top from a list of 220 entries when the competition commenced back in April.

Castlecomer won the Leinster Final against Carlow as they progressed through to the All-Ireland stages, and they defeated Foxrock of Dublin 3-1 to advance to the All-Ireland Finals weekend in Gort Co. Galway.

Both their Semi-Final and Final wins required a play-off, as both matches were won on the 2nd play-off hole. They won their Semi-Final match against Ennis in the play-off after the match finished 2-2 to set-up a final showdown with Athenry, and a similar situation transpired in the Final. The match in the final finished 2-2, and that meant a play-off was required.

Theresa Manning and Emma Walsh would represent Castlecomer in the play-off, and hopes were high they could pull off All-Ireland glory

alive. Being alive, they adapt and respond to their environment – the movements and forces we subject them to, as well as the biochemical environment of the body.

A Healthy Environment for Your Discs

How might we cultivate a healthy environment for

our discs? While we know that mechanical factors like movements and strain have an influence on our discs, biochemical factors play a key role in disc health.  With this in mind, it might not surprise you to hear that smoking impacts disc health. Non-smokers tend to have more youthful, healthy discs. Having a

healthy body weight and being fit also help to keep our discs healthy and vibrant. All these things help to maintain a healthier biochemical balance within the body – promoting tissue health and normal, healthy function of the body’s processes.

Another important factor is regular movement. Discs

as they were a partnership in form having won both their matches in the Semi-Final and Final in normal time.

Theresa and Emma actually forced a play-off in winning their Semi-Final match against Ennis, and it was a must win game for Castlecomer who were trailing 2-1 before going on to win on the 2nd play-off hole.

They had the opportunity to bring All-Ireland glory back to Castlecomer in the play-off, and they duly obliged as the celebrations began in earnest. Castlecomer Golf Club were emulating the feat by Gowran Park Golf Club, who won the All-Ireland Intermediate Foursomes competition last year also for the first time. Castlecomer Golf Club Squad: Team Managers: Honoria Fogarty and Marie Gannon

Captains: Anne Breen and Mick McGrath

Playing Squad: Helen Murphy, Ita Madigan, Joan Brennan, Bessie Brophy, Maureen Norton, Margaret O’ Keeffe, Emma Walsh, Theresa Manning, Margaret Furlong, Nuala Mahon, Caroline Conway, Helen Dunne, Cara Doyle.

living structures.

Physical factors do play a role here too. While our backs are robust and well able to take regular strain, injuries do impact the health of the discs. Next week we will explore this more and consider how we might best care for our back health from a physical perspective.

Small, steady changes

The factors mentioned above are some of the things we know affect disc health. Many more things do play a role.

These bodies of ours are living – in a constant state of change and regeneration. Our discs aren’t separate from us – they are a part of us. While they are not as quick to adapt as other organs and tissues that have a large blood supply, like bone and muscle, they are still a product of their physical and biochemical environment.

don’t usually have a direct blood supply – they rely on diffusion of nutrients from their connection to the vertebrae (spinal bones) on either end. Regular movement in all directions (bending, twisting, compressing, stretching) helps to pump these nutrients throughout the discs and nourish their

All that said, our discs, just like the rest of us, do change with time and as we age. Not all these changes are a bad thing – in fact, the majority of people with absolutely no pain will have scan findings that can sound a little bit scary (like ‘degeneration’ or ‘arthritis’).

As always, if you are looking for help with a back issue, it is best to get in touch with a registered healthcare practitioner.

Community & GAA Notes

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news

CLARA

CLUB LOTTO

Lotto results for 8th October. Numbers drawn 23, 24, 30, no Jackpot winner.

€30 each to Coogan Family, Joe Casey, Kay Hogan, Helen Kenny, Donal Murphy.

Thank you for your continued support.

HURLING

Clara U21s warmed up for this year’s championship with a competitive challenge game away to Tullaroan on Sunday morning. They suffered a narrow two point loss at the hands of a last minute goal by the home team but hopes are high that the young Clara team can go well this year.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS WIN SENIOR HURLING SEMI-FINAL

The O’Loughlin Gaels reached the final of the St. Canice’s Credit Union Kilkenny Senior Hurling Championship thanks to a victory over Bennettsbridge in the semi-final in UPMC on Sunday last by 2-17 to 1-14. A goal from a Fionán Mackassey free in the first half helped OLoughlin’s lead by 1-9 to 0-7 at half time. Despite their best efforts Bennettsbridge could not close the gap and a goal from Sammy Johnston sealed the victory having been set up brilliantly by a Jack Nolan run from midfield. Stephen Murphy made a number of crucial saves when Bennettsbridge came with a late rally.

The final in a fortnight’s time will see O’Loughlin’s try to retain their title when they play Thomastown who had a very impressive win over Mullinavat in the other semi-final.

CAMOGIE TEAM REACHES COUNTY FINAL.

Congratulations to O’Loughlin Gaels Camogie team on reaching the county final of the Abbot Kilkenny Intermediate Camogie Championship. They defeated Mullinavat in a very exciting semi-final played in Thomastown on Saturday last winning by 1-23 to 2-12 after extra time. They now meet Mooncoin in the county final. The final will be played next weekend (19th or 20th October), Details of day, time and venue will be on the club’s Facebook page as soon as they are available.

The successful semi-final team and scorers were Kate Furlong, Ailbhe Galwey, Neasa Galwey, Jen Holohan, Hanbah Quinn, Danielle Quigley, Abigail Egan, Laura Greene (1-4), Jen O’Keeffe, Emma Poyntz (0-2), Laura Murphy (0-15, 0-10 frees), Kate Lawless, Eva Collins (0-1), Ruth Crowley, Ena Lawlor (0-1). Hard luck to the O’Loughlin Gaels Junior C camogie team who were beaten by Conahy in round 1 of the Cup last Sunday at Jenkinstown. Great effort by the girls and management this year. Well done all.

LET’S GET THE GREEN AND WHITE FLYING

With both the camogie and hurling teams featuring in county finals over the next two weeks it is essential that the St. John’s parish community gets behind our teams. Let’s get the green and white flags, bunting and car flags flying and show our great teams that we are 100% behind them as they seek to bring glory to the club and the parish.

FIONÁN ON TEAM OF THE YEAR

Congratulations to Fionán Mackessy on being selected on the Joe Mc Donagh Cup Team of the Year 2024, from all in O’Loughlin Gaels.

Fionán was recognised for his performances with his native Kerry throughout the Joe Mc Donagh Cup competition. It is the fifth year in succession that Fionán has been recognised as a member of the Team of the Year. Well done Fionán!

CLUB LOTTO

There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated October 8th. Numbers drawn were 1, 4, 7, 24 and Bonus 13.

Play now at www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto. Thank you for your continued support. Promotors Draw. 1. Phil Gargan c/o JJ Cullen. 2. Jim and Mick c/o P Dowling. 3. Leah Tyrrell c/o D Tyrrell. 4. Siún Doyle c/o E Doyle. 5. R Mulcahy c/o JJ Cullen. 6. J McGarry c/o E Maher. 7. Geoff Doyle. 8. Michael Kinchella c/o Online. 9. Michael Butler c/o Online 10. N McEvoy c/o Online

ST. MARY’S CATHEDRAL CAFÉ

St. Mary’s Cathedral Café is now open every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm, offering a welcoming space for the community and visitors alike. Whether you’re in Kilkenny for a stroll or a visit, we invite you to stop by and enjoy a relaxing time at our café. All profits from the café support the vital work of Teac Tom, providing suicide prevention and mental health services. Your visit not only nourishes the soul but also helps make a difference in the lives of those in need. www.facebook. com/stmaryscathedralcafe”

NOTES

If you wish to have any item included in the St. John’s Parish notes please email it to pro.oloughlingaels.kilkenny@gaa.ieWin

FRESHFORD

SQUASH

Congratulations to local lad Nathan Walsh of Sart, Freshford a member of Freshford Squash Club who came second overall in the U15 Ulster Junior Open squash tournmant. Nathan is a very bright hope for the future in squash.

Freshford squash club are presently taking memberships. New members are also very welcome and you can contact any member of the Squash committee for details.

DEATH

The people of Freshford were saddened recently to hear of the death of Eamon Hayes after a long illness, formerly of Bennettsbridge who died in London. Eamon lived in Freshford for some time and was well known in the County and further afield especially in the music business. Eamon’s funeral took place in London and burial took place in Woodburn Cemetery Bourne, East London.

FLOWER POWER

Congratulations to Eva Holmes and Maura Hickey member of Kilkenny Flower Club who got firsts in the competition in Wexford last week.

GAA St. Lachtains Junior hurlers are taking on James Stephens in the JJ Kavanagh and Sons JHC semi final on Saturday next in UPMC Nowlan Park at 3.15pm. You are asked to please go along and support the team’ St. Lachtains U16 and U14 teams each have a county final and shield final coming up in the next few weeks. Please keep an eye on the Kilkenny GAA website and their social media page for the latest fixtures.

There was great excitement in Pairc Lachtain on Sunday morning last when the U6, U8 boys and U6 girls played a blitz among each other as they approach the end of the season. The young players got a guard of honour from the Junior hurling team and got presented with medals and goodie bags after the games.

BIRTHDAY

Special birthday wishes go out to Aaron Maher, Woodview, Freshford who celebrated his 21st birthday last weekend. Aaron celebrated with family and friends at a party in Kavanagh’s Bar on Saturday night last, joined by his cousin Shay who was celebrating the big 30.

SYMPATHY

Sympathy is extended to The Delaney family Cross Patrick on the recent death of David Delaney late of Bayswell House, Crosspatrick.

Sympathy is also extended to the Phelan family, Ballyragget

on the death last weekend of Dick Phelan late of Smiths Road, Ballyragget.

Sympathy also goes out to McGree family Lisdowney on the recent death of Sean McGree in County Tipperary.

BINGO

The weekly bingo sessions continue each Friday evening in Freshford Community Hall at 8pm with some good prize money and a raffle each week. All proceeds go to the Irish Wheelchair association. The Committee thank all the people who have turned up each week so far and ask you to please support this weekly fundraiser and tell your friends and spread the word around.

LOOP CAFÉ

Why not go along and improve your computer skills at the Loop café. Kilkenny Adult Learning services ate offering everyone in the area FREE classes in basic and intermediate computer courses. Classes start at 9.30am in the Green Room at the Loop Café on Tuesdays. Everything you need including laptops are provided. So why not go along and improve your knowledge and skills. For more information please contact 056 7763149 or email info@KilkennyAdultLearning.ie

With summer holidays behind us and community activities starting up again, the Loop Community Café is looking for new pairs of hands to help out. Chopping veg, washing plates, cleaning counters, making coffee – you name it, we need it! If you can take part any time from Monday to Saturday, even for an hour or two, please stop by or call the café at 056 8832650

SOCCER

Freshford town had a number of underage teams in action at the weekend. The U14 boys were defeated by Freebooters on a scoreline of 4-2 with Patrick O’Connor scoring the two Freshford goals. The U12 were beaten 3-0 by a strong Clover Utd side. The Juniors are due to start off their season next weekend. The soccer academy for young boys 5/6 upwards continues each Saturday at 9.30am and will continue each week.

The Club is presently looking for volunteers across all levels and if you can help or give a bit of your time they would be most grateful. You can contact any member of the Committee or just turn up at the training sessions

Freshford town soccer club were one of the clubs who received Sports Capital funding recently in the region of €150,000 a welcome boost for the club for their regeneration project

IONAD LACHTAIN

St. Lachtains Church Museum and Arts Centre is open every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30 am to 4.30pm. The next event in the centre is on Friday 18th October – a talk on a local farmhouse restoration project and the “Heritage Council Traditional farm Building Grant Scheme” that funded it. Then on Sunday 27th October at 3pm when they will host the inaugural Ned Kennedy Memorial Lecture. In honour of their late committee member and local historian Ned Kennedy and they will be hosting a special historical talk each year. This year historian Turtle Bunbury will give a talk on “The Irish Diaspora: Tale of Emigration, exile and imperialism”.

SPLIT THE POT

Last week’s winner of split the pot was Joan Maxwell, Woodview who won €464. This month’s split the pot proceeds is in aid of Freshford Playground and you are asked to please support this project which is a great addition to the village. Entry cost just €2 and envelopes are available in all local shops and pubs. Freshford Playground received an LCDC grant recently for new outdoor recycled inclusive furniture that arrived at the Community Playground recently and they thank the Kilkenny County Council re same.

KNIT AND KNATTER

You are invited to Knit and Knatter every Wednesday morning in the Loop Café. There is a knit and knatter session from 10am two 11am. Fee is €6 per person which includes tea/coffee and sweet treat. No experience is necessary and guidance is given. New members are always welcome so why not go along and gain a new skill and more importantly have fun.

TRAD MUSIC

Lisdowney Traditional music group resumed recently and continues each week in the Community Hall Lisdowney each Thursday. Children from six upward are also welcome.

PARISH NEWS

On Saturday morning, senior club members and former team-mates were saddened to hear of the unexpected death, overnight, of Michael (Mick) Crotty, Ashley Court, Kilkenny. Mick passed away peacefully on Friday night with his wife Evelyn and family by his bedside having bravely fought a long terminal illness. For decades, Mick ran a successful educational supply business and sponsored the Kilkenny primary school’s Cumann Na mBunscoil school league competitions. Never one to court publicity, nevertheless, fame came his way via his spirited match winning contributions to James Stephens and Kilkenny championship winning sides over a 20-year playing career. Having joined the James Stephens club in the late 1960’s, in 1969 he created his own snippet of hurling history when winning senior hurling championship medals with both U.C.C. in Cork and his home club, James Stephens. In the club’s golden era of the 1970’s Mick was a vital contributor to the club’s Kilkenny County Championship victories in 1975, ’76 and ’81. With his highly competitive spirit and ability to convert scoring opportunities Mick was a vital member of the club’s 1976 Leinster club championship winning team that went on to become the first Leinster club team to claim the All-Ireland club title with a memorable victory over Blackrock (Cork). Again, as a member of the 1981/82 Kilkenny championship winning side the club repeated the 1975/76 All Ireland title run with Mick to the fore in a thrilling victory over Mount Sion (Waterford). After being selected for the Kilkenny senior hurling team in 1969 he had to wait until 1972 to collect his first All-Ireland senior hurling medal going on to add three more McCarthy cup medals in 1974, ’75 and ’79. Mick’s performance in the 1974 final earned him a GAA All-Star award for, as the citation reads, ‘the flair and earnestness he demonstrated in attack’. In a stellar sporting career Mick also won an Oireachtas medal in 1969, a National League in 1976 and a Railway Cup medal in 1975. A keen hurling fan sensibly commented “every championship team needs a Mick Crotty”. We extend our sympathies to his wife Evelyn, his family Paddy, Kathryn, Michael, Olivia and James, his siblings Patricia, Pat, Nuala, Bernard and Fr. Jim and the extended Crotty families. On Monday morning, as a tribute for his service to club and county a large gathering of club members and former team-mates formed a guard of honour for his funeral procession from his home to St. Patrick’s Church for Requiem Mass after which he was laid to rest in St. Kieran’s cemetery. “Air dheis Dei go raibh a anam dilis”.

MINOR ‘A’ HURLING FINAL

Mass

is held in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and each Sunday morning at 11am.with Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 7.30pm and 11am Mass in St.Lachtains Church on Sundays. The parish newsletter is available on their website every week and also on the website you are free to pay your dues and make donations or any other contributions and you can find out more about it on the website or feel free to contact in the Parish Office. Please note community notices for the parish newsletter should be left in or emailed to the Parish Office by 11am on Thursdays. Parish office hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 1pm. Mass Cards

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

Are you struggling with anxiety or depression or finding life difficult or feeling isolated at this time GROW is there to help you. Their Mental Health support Groups are free and confidential and open to all no referral or booking is needed. For more information on same you can contact Mary on 087 284342 If you can’t cope and need support text HELLO to 50808.

SAMARITAN - Whatever you’re going through a Samaritan will face it with you – available 24 hours a day 365 days a year –Freephone 1161Alone is available for older people who need support and you can call them on 0818 222024 (8am to 8pm)

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

On Saturday afternoon last, 12th. October, our minor hurlers set out to defend their minor county title, a position last achieved by our club in ‘91/ ’92. The ’23 title was won when the competition was run at U-17 but this year reverted to the ‘traditional’ U-18 which meant we would work from the same panel as the successful squad of ’23. Standing in our way were local city rivals Dicksboro. The game was preceded by a minute’s silence to mark the death of our great clubman Mick Crotty. The James Stephens lads settled into what would become a close and tense game throughout and registered their first score after 90 seconds, a point from the stick of Ruairi Harrison. This was followed by points from Bill McDermott (2) and Daniel Ring to give us a 0-4 to nil lead at the 8th minute. From here to the 25th. minute, our forwards were struggling to retain possession and, we failed to raise another flag while the ‘Boro registered 7 points. Trailing by 3 points as we approached half time, our midfield pairing of the hard-working Sean Bergin and Ed Lauhoff added a point each followed by a pointed free from Conor McEvoy to leave us with a one-point advantage at half time, James Stephens 0-8, Dicksboro 0-7. The Village lads were first out of the blocks at the start of the second half when Ed. McDermott tapped over his first point but a well worked goal by the ‘Boro on the 3rd minute gave them a one-point lead. Daniel Ring responded with a point to level matters and a further point from Sean Bergin, after 8 minutes, in response to a pair of ‘Boro points ensured that victory would he hard earned. From here to the 22nd. minute the ‘Boro failed to score, similar to the scoreless patch endured by the Village in the first half, while the Village added points through Sean Bergin, Jacob Breslin (2 frees) and Bill McDermott. Jacob had replaced Conor McEvoy in the 9th. minute of the second half. At the midway point James Stephens now held a 2 point lead and were given a further boost when the hard working Zac Scanlon finished a well worked move to the net to leave the score, after 17 minutes, at James Stephens 1-14, Dicksboro 1-09. Tensions were now running high as the ‘Boro upped their game but, a well taken point from Ruairi Harrison followed by 2 from the ‘Boro was followed by a further point from Ed. McDermott, our final score on the 23rd. minute. With

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB

MICHAEL (MICK) CROTTY R.I.P

O’Loughlin Gaels club player and Kerry county player Fionán Mackassey. Nathan Walsh

Mick Crotty

the score standing at James Stephens 1-16, Dicksboro 1-11 and 7 minutes plus stoppage time to be played Dicksboro added a further 2 points but the resolute defending of full back line Tuan Hyland, Noah Manogue and Darragh Behan plus the hardworking half back line of Larry Phelan, Sean Deely and Conor Heffernan ensured that the ‘Boro would not, despite some near misses, get that all important goal. Goalkeeper, Billy O’ Sullivan, was rock solid throughout. Diarmid Behan replaced Ed. Lauhoff, who had run himself to a standstill, for the final few minutes. The final score was James Stephens 1-16, Dicksboro 1-13. Well done to our 2024 minors and management team Joe Murray, Niall Tyrrell, David Tyrrell, Matthew Ruth and Paddy O’ Brien. MINOR ‘C’ HURLING FINAL

Following our hard-won Roinn A victory that afternoon, our second minor team headed to Dunmore on Saturday. evening to take on Ballyhale Shamrocks in the Minor ‘C’ final. Shamrocks had the brighter start and had 2 points on the board before James Long scored a point for James Stephens in the 3rd. minute. A further point from James Kavanagh in the 11th. min had the teams back on level terms but this was short lived as Shamrocks tagged on 1-3 before Darragh Power added two pointed frees to leave the score at James Stephens 0-04 to 1-05 for Shamrocks after 18 mins. From here to half time James Stephens added a point from James Kavanagh and two more pointed frees from Darragh Power while Shamrocks added 4 points to leave the half time score at James Stephens 0-7, Shamrocks 1-9. Due to the delayed start in the game, and with the daylight fading, the lights were switched on at half time.

On the restart, Shamrocks again got off to the brighter start adding four points while, top scorer, Darragh Power (9 points) added a further point from play and one pointed free for James Stephens. By the 15th minute Shamrocks added a further 3 points but from there on it was the Village lads who did all the scoring with points from Darragh Power (2 frees) and a wonderful score from play, Rory O’ Carroll, Rory Glynn, Ruairi Power, Rory O’ Carroll. Unfortunately, the strong finish was not enough to close the gap and, the final score was James Stephens 0-16, Shamrocks 2-15.

A brave display by the Village lads and hopefully we will see all of them in action at adult level for many years to come. From goalkeeper Padraig Joyce, hard working full back line Conor Millea, Liam Rea and Ruairi Walsh to Colm Byrne, Darragh Power and Ryan Burke, on a tenacious half back line, the work rate never dropped. The midfield pairing of Ben Blanchfield and Matthew Kavanagh contributed greatly in attack and defence while the forward lines of James Kavanagh, Rory O’ Carroll and James long, on the half line, together with a full forward line of Cameron McFarlane, Allen Larkin and Sam Mackey worked tirelessly throughout. Substitutes Metthew Kiely, Ronan Hanrahan, Andrew Brennan, Rory Glynn and Ruairi Power also contributed to a very good and honest performance.

SENIOR CAMOGIE SEMI-FINAL

Our Senior Ladies bowed out of the championship at the semifinal stage against local rivals Dicksboro in Castlecomer on Saturday on a score line of 1-12 to 0-12 after a storming second half come-back. The Boro girls, with the aid of the breeze, attacked from the off and put the Village defence under pressure running up a 7pt lead before a first score by Rachel Leahy from an Emily Smith pass got the Village girls on the score sheet. Two brave saves by Tara Murphy in goal kept them in touch but the defence was breached 5 minutes before half time and two points, one

from Emily Smith and a free from Sophie O’Dwyer left the score at halftime 1-10 to 0-3 with a mountain to climb. Whatever was said at half time had the desired effect and with the introduction of Tara McGuire and Lucy Coomey the Village girls stepped up their work rate and aggression in the tackle to begin the second half brightly with a couple of frees from Sophie O’Dwyer. With Niamh Deely now operating at centre forward the half forward line were winning a lot more ball and forcing the Boro backs into conceding a number of frees on both Rachel Leahy and Niamh Deely with Sophie converting and continuing to reduce the arrears. Two further points from play, one from Anna Doheny and the other from Sophie O’Dwyer brought the girls within 4pts with five minutes to go. Try as they might the Village girls were unable to trouble the Dicksboro goalie for that elusive goal and one further point finished the match 1-12 to 0-12. Tara Murphy excelled in goal along with the full back line of Niamh Leahy, Michelle Teehan and Emma Gaffney. Aoife Cantwell and Hannah Scott had a great second half and Emily Smith and Anna Doheny worked tirelessly in midfield throughout. Niamh Deely and Rachel Leahy fought for every ball on the half line and Hannah Larkin made good use of the limited ball at full forward. In only their second season in the Senior grade it was a step in the right direction and the girls can be proud of making the semifinal and winning the league shield. A big thanks to manager John Scott and the backroom team of Philly Larkin, Chuck O’Connor, Angela Downey, Jim Smith, Brian McEvoy and Derek Brennan for their work with the girls all year.

JUNIOR CAMOGIE

The Junior Ladies were beaten by a strong Windgap team on Sunday morning in the Kells Rd. 2-8 to 0-8. As they say, goals win matches, and this was particularly true in this match as two quick fire goals in the first half was the difference between the teams in the end and while the Village girls didn’t give up and had a number of goal opportunities thwarted and last-ditch tackles and saves it was not to be their day. Best for the backs were Niamh Leahy and Sophie Meagher, outstanding at centre back. Tara McGuire and Molly Burke worked hard in midfield with Caoimhe Moran, Roisin Leahy, Anna Doheny best of the forwards. Thanks to Philly Larkin, Michael Leahy and Derek Brennan for looking after the team.

END TO THE SEASON AT K-BOWL

A great end to the season with an evening of fun and laughter for our U12 girls at K-Bowl. A picture paints a thousand words and this one really does with a great bunch of girls who represented the club all year with pride. Huge thanks to Manager Dermot Grogan and all the coaches, Brian Dunlop, Adrian Kelly, Brian Dooley, John Treacy, Enda Roberts, Mickey Cashin and Niall Lyons for all their work and commitment to the girls all year.

CLUB SHOP – CHRISTMAS SHOPPING

Please support our club shop this Christmas! Stocking all sizes in star hurls, our new Skoda Laharts jerseys, new training tops coming end of November, black padded jackets, half zips, skinny bottoms camogie crew necks. We have loads for stocking fillers, sliotars, bullet balls, grips, football gloves, hats, togs & socks. Opens Tuesday nights in Larchfield from 8-9pm. Check out our social media pages for any updates.

LOTTO

Last week’s numbers were 8, 13, 19, 21. There was no winner.

Consolation prize winners of €40: Laurance Foley, Anne Larkin, Geraldine Molloy, Tomás O Dowd, Nicole Humphries. This week’s jackpot is €19,200. You can play on Clubforce any time before 6pm on any Tuesday.

PARK

Get ready for an action-packed Monday at Gowran Park on October 21st! Free admission for all – treat your friends and family! Top-class racing to keep you on the edge of your seat

Live music to keep the energy high all day long. Full bar and restaurant to fuel up between races.

INTERMEDIATE COUNTY FINAL

Very Best Wishes to The Young Irelands Intermediate Hurling Team in next Sunday’s County Final against Lisdowney. There is plenty of colour and excitement around Gowran in the build-up to next Sunday’s Final, having not been in an Intermediate Final since 1992. The post match meal is scheduled to take place in Langtons, and if you wish to donate ahead of the County Final you can go to http:www.gofundme.com/f/young-irelands-trainingfund. Cash or Cheque - Can be dropped to Treasurer Niall Walsh or Assistant Treasurer Billy Carroll, Gowran Pharmacy, Gowran CAMOGIE

The Young Irelands Senior Camogie Team lost 2-13 to 1-3 against Piltown in The County Semi-Final last Saturday. It was a very strong and dominant performance from Piltown who are attempting to win their first County Senior title. It was Young Irelands second County Senior Semi-Final appearance since been promoted from Intermediate in 2018.

Young Irelands Gowran: Hannah Brennan, Amy Lennon, Eimear Naddy, Aisling Rudkins, Marie O’Keeffe, Tiffanie Fitzgerald, Mia Murphy, Nicole Carter, Ciara O’Keeffe, Emma Farrell, Steffi Fitzgerald, Ciara Byran, Sarah O’Donnell, Julie Lennon. Subs: Eimear Brennan, Kate Drennan, GOWRAN LITTLE THEATRE

Gowran Little Theatre is sincerely delighted that Declan Taylor, a seasoned theatre director and actor, is set to bring his extensive experience to our upcoming production of Brian Friel’s Dancing at Lughnasa. Running from October 18th to 21st, 2024, in Gowran Parish Hall, this production marks Declan’s third time directing with the group, following his work on The Communication Cord in 2022.

With over 30 years in the theatre scene across the South East, Declan has been deeply involved in every aspect of the art, working with esteemed groups like KATS, Watergate Productions, Kilkenny Pantomime Society, Kilkenny Musical Society, Oyster Lane Theatre Group, and others. He has contributed to numerous award-winning productions, including Forward to the Right, which he directed for KATS, earning second place at the All-Ireland One Act Drama Finals in 2006. As a performer, one of his career highlights was being part of the ten-timesnominated and winning cast of Michael Collins: A Musical Drama with Kilkenny Musical Society.

Declan’s connection to Dancing at Lughnasa runs deep. He admires how Friel’s play celebrates strong, complex female characters, drawing parallels to the powerful women in his own life. For him, this production is a passion project, and he’s thrilled to collaborate once more with Gowran Little Theatre, a group he praises for its heart, dedication, and sense of community. With this play, he aims to offer audiences a memorable, heartfelt evening that showcases not only Friel’s artistry but also the exceptional talent of the cast. Book tickets at: www.gowranlittletheatre.com

GOWRAN AC

Kilkenny Cross Country Uneven Ages. Not only were our seniors successful in the rescheduled Uneven age XC races in Ballycurran, but our juveniles enjoyed another great day of racing too. Again this week we had superb performances with Abigail bronze, Bobby bronze, Gearóid bronze, Conor silver, and Michael gold all medaling individually whilst our three teams also took home medals in the Girls U13 gold, Boys U13 gold, Girls U15 gold. Great running from everyone in preparation for the upcoming Leinster Cross Country days.

Results as follows, U7 Maeve Moseley gold. U9 Girls. Aoife O’Keeffe gold. Annie Kennedy.

U9 Boys Tom Hunt gold. U11 Girls. Emma Hayden 14th. Laoise Moseley 19th Kate Kennedy 24th. U11 Boys. Darragh Glynn 8th

Henry Kelly 9th. George Doran 12th U13 Girls Team gold. Abigail

Hunt bronze. Mia Kennedy 6th Sara Mulrooney 7th. Roisin

Moseley 12th U13 Boys Team gold. Bobby Coomey bronze. Ned Óg Kelly. Peter Grimley 6th. Jay Pollock 11th. Matthew Byrne 12th. Cian Larkin 15th. U15 Girls Team gold. Emily O’Keeffe 4th. Heidi Ryan 5th. Lucy Cunningham 6th. Orlaith Carroll 9th

Daisy Coomey 10th. Anna Kelsey 13th

U15 Boys. Gearóid Farrell 3rd. David Carroll 5th

U17 Girls, Kate Hayden 4th

U17 Boys Conor Carroll, James Kelsey 6th

U19 Boys, Michael Holland gold.

PULSE OF THE NATION

Pulse of the Nation is a celebration of the GAA’s 140 years at the centre of Irish life, from its foundation in November 1884 to the present-day institution that has expanded massively at home and abroad.

It zones in on the greatest players in football and hurling, ranking them one-to-ten, accompanied by profiles, in each of the fifteen positions in both codes. Congratulations to former inter county hurlers, Noel Skehan and Seamus Cleere who made it into this important publication.

Written by award-winning sports journalists Martin Breheny and Donal Keenan, this is the ultimate publication for the GAA’s 140th anniversary.

LOTTO

Results 7th October. No winner of Jackpot. Numbers, 6, 11, 20, 26. Consolation Prizes, David McGrath, Kilfane, Margaret O’Donnell, Main Street, BB, David O’Neill, Ballinamona, Mary Simpson, Goresbridge, Maura Huggard, Bishopslough. MASS TIMES

Masses during the week:-Tuesday evening 7,30pm, Wednesday and Friday morning, 10.30am. Saturday(Tullaherin) 8pm. Sunday(Bennettsbridge) 10.30am.

OCTOBER STATIONS

Offerings are welcome through the month of October. Your contributions throughout the year are much appreciated. MISSION SUNDAY

Special collection in support of the missions next weekend in both churches.

FIRST COMMUNION

The programme for the 2025 First Communion Class will shortly get underway. A meeting for parents of children who will make their First Communion this year will be held on Wednesday night at 7pm in the church. Enrolment Mass will be held next Sunday at 10.30am mass.

SYMPATHY

Sympathy is extended to Thomas (Toddy) Nolan on the death of his wife, Margaret who died at Gowran Abbey Nursing Home on Friday, 11th October. She is survived by her husband, Thomas, daughter,Helena and sons, James and Gerard. She is deeply regretted and sadly missed by her loving husband, daughter, sons, daughter-in-law Yvonne, son-in-law Sami, grandchildren Stephen, Cian, Clodagh and Riona, sisters Eileen, Maura and Cathy, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Margaret lay in repose in the Mercy Side Chapel of the Church of the Assumption, Thomastown on Sunday with Rosary and prayers. Requiem Mass was celebrated on Monday followed by interment in Bennettsbridge Cemetery, Co Kilkenny.

MICHAEL CROTTY RIP

Sympathy is extended to the Crotty family on the death of Mick on 11th October at his home.

He was predeceased by his baby son Michael. Mick will be deeply missed by his loving wife Evelyn, children Paddy, Kathryn, Michael, Olivia and James, siblings Patricia (Walton), Pat, Nuala, Bernard and Jim, his cherished 15 grandchildren, sons-in-law Bill and Paddy, daughters-in-law Ana-Mari, Caoimhe and Susan, nephews and nieces, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.

As he lay in repose at his home on Sunday, family, friends, neighbours and former team mates called in large numbers to pay their respects. Requiem Mass was celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Kilkenny with burial in St. Kieran’s Cemetery.

GATHERING

Meetings continue each Wednesday in the Community Centre from 11am until 1pm. Cards, Rings, Bingo tea and chat and gentle chair exercises are the order of the day.

KILKENNY VOLUNTEERS

Community First Responders Callan are seeking for Volunteer working and/or living in Callan or surrounding area of 5km. The team would love to hear from any volunteers who would be interested and fit in becoming a CFR. Clean full-driving licence are required.

Butler Gallery seeks Gallery Invigilator Volunteers to assist visitors and provide information. Shifts are four hours per week, with a focus on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons. Applicants must be over 18, fluent in English.

Barnstorm Theatre seeks a Volunteer Assistant for their Youth Theatre program, supporting the Youth Theatre Leader in delivering drama workshops. Commitment is from September to May, with sessions on Mondays, 5-7 PM, Tuesdays, 5:30-7:30 PM, and Wednesdays, 3:45-5:15 PM and 4-6 PM. Training will be provided.

Kilkenny Care Centre is seeking Pen Pal Volunteers to write letters or cards for elderly residents, providing joy and companionship. No special skills are needed—just kindness and a willingness to connect. This opportunity is flexible and allows to

GOWRAN

GOWRAN

BENNETTSBRIDGE

UNDER 12 CAMOGIE

Bennettsbridge All-Ireland Captains

KILKENNY MINOR ROINN ‘A’ CHAMPIONS 2024

Community & GAA Notes

work from home.

Kilkenny CoderDojo is volunteer-led club seeking for Volunteer Mentors to support children in creative computing coding at Dunmore Community Centre on Fridays from 6 PM to 7:30 PM. Volunteers must be over 16 and have basic English skills. SpunOut is an online hub aimed at helping young people to reach their potential and access quality health information are seeking, Kilkenny Youth Volunteers, who are based in Kilkenny and aged 16 to 25 to guide their work by sharing insights on issues relevant to this age group, including mental health, climate, relationships, and employment.

For information on any of the above contact www.volunteerkilkenny.ie.

ART GROUP

As we approach the First Anniversary of the death of our friend and fellow artist Moss Kharaghani, Moss’s wife, Elma has come up with an idea to mark the occasion. She has gathered together a vast collection of Moss’s art supplies and these will be on sale during the Art Group Christmas Fair for a donation. Monies raised will be donated to “Doctors without Frontiers”, a cause which was close to Moss’s heart.

BORD NA N-OG

U8s on tour!! Our U8s were invited down to Ballygunner for a blitz. They played Tramore and Ballygunner. Boys showed off their skills that they have been working hard on all season. They had a great days hurling followed by food in Jack Meades. Thanks to @ballygunnergaa for hosting. Thanks to coaches and

parents. A great day out had by all and a lovely way to end the season for our U8s. U10s,.A big well done to our U10s who had their very first Go Games Gaelic football match against Danesfort on Friday evening. They really enjoyed it and had great fun. Well done boys. GAA Senior Semi-Final. Bennettsbridge bowed out of the senior hurling championship at the sem-final stage with a defeat against O’Loughlin’s in Nowlan Park last Sunday. O’Loughlin’s got a goal just before half time and one half way through the second half to establish a cushion they would not relinquish despite the best efforts of the ‘Bridge lads who fought to the end. The final score was 2-17 to 1-14. Thanks to all the players and management team for their efforts during the year.

Lucky Dip Raffle. The senior players are running a fundraiser at the moment. Tickets cost 1 cent to 20 euro in a lucky dip, for example a ticket pulled could cost you one cent or up to 20 euro maximum. Prize money is 1000 euro first prize, 500 euro second prize, 300 euro third and 200 euro fourth prize. Please contact Michael Shiel on 0868856810 or David Blanchfield on 0860529386 if you would like to take part.

Split the Pot. Well done to Sam Carroll who won 82 euro, to Pauline Keating who won 30 euro and to Niamh Whelan who won 20 euro. Thanks again for the continued support.

O’Neill’s Club Shop. A new range has been added to the Bennettsbridge online shop on the O’Neill’s website. Simply enter Bennettsbridge into the search box to access the full range of

adult and kids club gear.

GRAIGUENAMANAGH

GRAIG NOTES

In the vent that you desire to have any news items, club events, announcements etc., you would like to have published in The Kilkenny Observer you can do so by emailing them to graignotes@outlook.com. Deadline is Saturday 6pm.

LOTTO GAA AND SOCCER

The Jackpot numbers drawn on 30/09/24 were 6, 11, 14 19 and there was one winner. Diarmuid Barron won €20,000, Congratulations on your great win Diarmuid. Tickets are available from any club member.

GRAIG TIDY TOWN DRAW

The winners for the draw that took place on10/10/ 2024, were

First Prize Anna Naylor €433, Second Prize € 50 Ellie and Darra Flynn, and 3rd Prize €25 Judy 3. Money raised through Tidy Towns Jackpot will be used to keep the town looking well all year round. Draw takes place at 4pm on Thursdays.

RAMBLING HOUSE

The Monthly Rambling House Session is held on the second Friday of the month in Newtown Hall, where you can enjoy music and song from local artists and also from many of the surrounding district’s artists who also join. The next Session is on Friday November 8th at 8.00pm.

MASS TIMES FOR DUISKE ABBEY GRAIGUENAMANAGH

Monday to Friday 10 AM, Saturday 7,30 PM, and Sunday 11AM

CLINIC

Cllr Peter “Chap” Cleere will hold his clinic on Monday evenings from 7pm at his office in Main Street, Graiguenamanagh.

GORESBRIDGE AND PAULSTOWN

ACTIVE RETIREMENT

A group has been set up for Paulstown and Goresbridge. It costs €1 to join and €2 per meeting you attend. A cup of tea/coffee and treats at every meet up, a walking morning, a cards morning and plenty more planned for all who attend. Continuing every Thursday - 11am at Paulstown Community Hall. Everyone is welcome.

BADMINTON Badminton takes place every Monday 8-10pm in the Community Hall in Paulstown. Currently,

there is interest in setting up a Badminton club, as well, in Goresbridge. More information next week.

BARROW RANGERS

Congratulations to the Under-14s Camogie team who won the county final last weekend. Results: Barrow (3-15) vs Piltown (3-14).

Upcoming match: Barrow Rangers vs Emeralds at 2pm on Saturday 2nd November.

The Rangers draw takes place each Tuesday. Tickets may be purchased locally or at lottoraiser.ie

BRIDGE UNITED

A Halloween soccer camp for boys and girls aged 4-13 will take place from 10-1pm on Tuesday 29th and Wednesday 30th October. Contact Conor English 085 132 1589.

In Division 3, Paulstown 06 lost to Bridge United 0-7. Bridge scores: Evan’s Wallace (2), Mikey Barcoe (1), Eddie English (1), Kieran Carey (1), Mikey Keating (1), Alex Kenny (1). In the FAI Junior Cup, Bridge won with a scoreline of 6 to 2. Bridge scores: Marty Dalton (3), Kieran Timmons (1), Eoin Kavanagh (2).

Well done to Under-10 girls on their first game with a win against Stoneyford. Bridge scores: Adie Maher, Sarah Carroll and Ciara Doyle.

Well done to Under-14 girls team with a good away win against Clover Utd. Bridge scores: Lucy Brennan, Avery Hayes, Lucy Kavanagh, Sadbh Tuite and Caitlyn Corcoran.

BRIDGE UNITED LOTTO

This week’s lotto numbers drawn are 3. 16. 20. 21. There was no winner. Tickets cost €2 each and can be bought locally or on Clubforce.

CHURCH SERVICES

Join one million children around the world praying the rosary every Friday in October. Starts at 3.15pm this Friday in Paulstown church. Contact Niamh 087 9596273. Weekend masses will be celebrated in Goresbridge at 7.30pm on Saturday and at 10.00am on Sunday. In Paulstown Mass is held at 11.30am. Weekday mass is at 10am in Paulstown on Tuesday and Thursday Friday. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament takes place in Paulstown every Tuesday after morning mass and lasts until 6pm. The rosary will be prayed every Monday at 5.45pm in Paulstown church for the remainder of this month. Church of Ireland,morning prayer at 10am this Sunday in Shankill (Paulstown).

DRAMA FESTIVAL (GORESBRIDGE)

For your diary – Thursday 24th, Friday 25th and Saturday 26th October in Ionad Dara, Goresbridge. Tickets are €12 nightly. Concessions are for €8.

FORÓIGE YOUTH CLUB (PAULSTOWN)

New members always welcome (aged 12-17) as well as volunteers. Contact Aidan Gleeson tel. 086 067 4485. Weekly gatherings resumed on Friday 11th October at 8pm. Contact Trish 086 3347 426

MEN’S SHED GORESBRIDGE

An information evening to explore the possibilities for a local men’s shed will take place on Tuesday 29th October at 8pm in Ionad Dara, Goresbridge. Information - Tom Healy at 087 9181436.

NATURE’S WAY (BORRIS AND GORESBRIDGE AREAS)

A pre-school and after-school service operates from 8.30am to 6pm daily at Scoil Bhríde in Goresbridge from this week onwards. Information: Ann O’Kelly (085 752 9485) or Michelle Cummins (089 947 3317).

PIONEERS

80 years of the Pioneers will be celebrated, this year, in Goresbridge. Further information is available from Eileen 086 166 4471.

SISTER ACT MUSICAL

For your diary – 23th, 24th and 25th October in the Presentation

De La Salle in Bagenalstown.

SPLIT THE POT

In aid of Goresbridge Rural Development has gone online. Simply go to lottoraiser.ie

TAR ISTEACH SHOP

Tar Isteach Shop is looking for mugs, dishes, cutlery, pots, pans, water glasses, pictures, vases, winter dresses, knits, if you are doing a clear out, we are also back taking ladies clothes, if you are planning a new wardrobe and want to get rid of winter clothes. We’ll take handbags, belts, scarves.

DICKSBORO

CLUB LOTTO

Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results 10th October 2024. Nos: 7 10 16 26

Draw Prizes, €50: Sarah Rochford c/o Seamus Rochford. €25 each Liz Holohan c/o Online €25 each Tommy and Deirdre c/o Deirdre O’Reilly. €25 each Patrick Noonsn c/o Rita Long Hurlers Co Op Rita Long c/o R Long. Promotors

Sunday 20th in UPMC Nowlan

so

behind these girls and their mentors and support

Junior Team were in hard luck Sunday morning where they were defeated by Tullogher by 1point in the Shield Final. The girls put in huge effort and left nothing behind them. They progress to the Junior Championship Quarter Final which will take place on Saturday afternoon at 3.30pm in Palmerstown.

PALMERSTOWN CLUBHOUSE

Dicksboro Clubhouse Bar is opened every Thursday from 8.30pm. Thursday nights is Lotto Draw and Cards Night. All are welcome out for a social drink, a chat and if there is interest, a beginners card table. We would be delighted to see you out to the club for a chat. We have a selection of non-alcoholic beers, barista coffee also available so come along and enjoy.

BALLYRAGGETT BALLYOUSKILL

SYMPATHY

Sympathies are sent to the Phelan family of Smiths Road on the sad passing of Dick, to his daughter Biddy, sons, Paddy, Richie, Jimmy, and Murt, sisters Biddy Myles (England) and Mary Comerford (Galway), grandchildren, daughters-in-law, son-in-law, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. May he rest in peace.

GAA The Under 14 St Patricks Fenians side were victorious in the Roinn C County Final on Sunday morning in Dunmore defeating Erins Own on a scoreline of 1-12 to 1-08. It was a tight game a toughly fought with a mere point in it at half time. Team: Mark Boland, Padraig Tobin, Adam Staunton, Conor Holohan, Jack Cummins, Jack Renehan, Billy Kennedy, Niall Foley, Julian Biletskyy, Alex Hickey, Jack Diver, Aaron Phelan, Adam Hogan, Adrain Biletskyy, Harry Phelan Subs: Oisin McCormack, Will Walsh, Aedan Summer, Pj Phelan, Roan Donovan, Kieron Fagan, Tom Renehan Team Management Ciaran Diver, John Hogan, Tomas Healy, Annmarie Ryall, Noel Cummins, Paul Phelan. St Patricks Club shop is now available all year round via the O’Neills website supplying a wide range of gear with more being added. Search their website under the Clubs and Education Tab. BINGO Bingo is being held in the CYMS Hall each Wednesday night starting at 8pm.It is a great night out and so enjoyable so why not go along, bring family and friends?

MENS SHED

Ballyragget Men’s shed continue to meet Tuesdays in the Cannon Malone hall at 10am for their healthy eating programme and Thursday evenings at 8pm. Work is continuing on their shed and new members are always welcome.

CAMOGIE

Naomh Brid Camogie were in action against Thomastown on Sunday at home in the Junior C Cup Round 1, they were defeated on a scoreline of 2-13 to 0-3.

CHRISTMAS

The annual Christmas Craft fair and turning on of the Christmas lights will be held on Friday December 6th this year. The market will begin at 5pm and run until 7pm with the lights been turned on in the square at 7.30pm. If you wish to have a craft stall at the market please contact Juanita via WhatsApp on 087 295 5864 tables cost €15.

CANCER SUPPORT

Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre Kilkenny have an Outreach Service available for the community of Ballyragget and the surrounding areas every Monday morning. Call in for a chat, support, and registration to The Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre in Kilkenny. The Cois Nore Outreach service will be held at Dr Hogan’s Rooms on the square in the morning - from 10 am to 12 pm. Please do not hesitate to drop in or, for an appointmentcontact 087-4833941.

PROGRESSIVE 25’S

Conahy progressive 25’s has started back every Sunday night at 8pm, in the club house. All welcome.

JOHNSTOWN

CHURCH NEWS

First Holy Communion in St. Kieran’s Church has been fixed for Saturday. May 3rd 2025 at 11am for the children of the parish. October Stations for the support of the priests are now due. Envelopes in the packs.

RETIREMENT MASS

A great crowd filled the church on Friday evening last to celebrate the retirement of John Curran, principal of St. Kieran’s N.S. for the past 26 years. Celebrant of the Mass was Fr. Ollie Maher P.P., the beautiful singing of the schoolchildren led by Miss Leahy greatly enhanced the celebration, with

music by Ed-

U8s played a Blitz in Ballygunner

U 10s played Go Games Football against Danesfort

The Bridge under-10 girls on their first game with a win against Stoneyford

Tom Healy

die Cullinane, Noirin Ryan and Breda Campion The communion reflection was sung by John’s daughters Sarah and Ella. John was thanked for his dedication to the pupils of the school over his 26 years and presentations were made from the Parents Council, the Board of Management and the Parish. He is wished a long and happy retirement.

CHURCH CONCERT

A Church Concert is being held tonight Friday 18th in The Church of the Assumption, Urlingford showcasing amazing local talent and presented by the Emeralds H.C. in aid of their new training facility. Concert starts at 7.30pm and tickets are adults € 20 and children U16 € 5.

PRIDE OF PLACE

On Friday October 25th in the Community Hall, there will be a screening of the Pride of Place video showing the contributions of many members of the community who were interviewed as part of the Pride of place competition. A copy of the video will be placed in the time capsule which will be buried in the Square (with special thanks to Kilkenny Co.Co) in December 2024, to be opened in 50 years time. A cup of tea and some light refreshments will be served afterwards and a chance for everyone to see the refurbishments carried out in the Hall over the past year.

HALLOWEEN DISCO

All the movers and shakers are invited to a Disco in St. Kieran’s Hall on Sunday November 3rd from 5 to 7pm for U14’s and younger. Donation € 3, D.J, dancing, facepainting, nail art and treats. So get your spooky costumes ready.

CAMP

A Halloween Kids Camp will be held.in the Hall on October 29th/30th from 10am to 2pm. Class facilitated by art teacher Alliyah Stapleton and local artist Louise Walsh, includes art/craft supplied, multiple Halloween art and craft activities/games and an exhibition showing all the creations at the end of the camp. Contact Alliyah on 0857449496 or Louise on 0851150715.

BINGO

Congratulations to the winner of the jackpot last week, the jackpot starts back at € 1300 this week and the Split the Pot in aid of the Heritage Group.

LIBRARY

Storytime with Helena Byrne on Tuesday Oct 29th at 6.30pm for ages seven and over.

As part of the witch trials event there is a creative art workshop with Rachel Burke on Thursday 31st October at 11am,for ages 7 to 10 years. This workshop uses collage and puppets to tell the story of the Kilkenny Witch Trials. There are flower arranging workshops with Eva Holmes on Wednesday November 6th and 13th. All information from the library at 056 7794182 .

ST. KIERAN’S HALL

The Town Team has received a grant from Kilkenny Co.Co. of € 15,000 for the restoration of the balcony seats as a result of participating in the Pride of Place. The total amount needed is € 30,000. The Hall Committee are now launching a fundraising initiative “Balcony Seat Donation” to raise the extra money needed. Families, individuals or members of our Diaspora who would like to sponsor the restoration of a seat in their own name or their family name can do so for € 200. The capacity of the balcony is 75 seats and if interested please confirm by November 29th. One name will be assigned to each seat, and it is felt that it will be a fitting gesture to all in Johnstown, who over a period of 100 years have enjoyed events in the Hall, and for everyone in the community who will use it now and into the future. If you would like to sponsor a seat please contact any of the committee or you can talk to them at the Pride of Place open evening on October 25th.

MR. DAVID DELANEY RIP

The death has taken place of David Delaney, Bayswell House, Crosspatrick after a long illness borne with tremendous courage at St. Vincent’s Hospital. Dearly missed by his heartbroken wife Mary, adored children Gerard, Daniel and James, parents Stephen and Carmel, sisters Sinead, Claire and Nora, brothers Paul and Stephen, father in law Gerry (Cumiskey), brothers in law, sisters in law, nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts, cousins, extended family , neighbours and friends. Requiem Mass for David was celebrated in the Church of the Assumption, Galmoy with burial in the adjoining Cemetery

SPA UNITED AFC Weekend results U16 girls league Division 1 Evergreen 2 Spa 2, U14 boys league Division 1 Spa 4 East End 2, U12 boys league Division 2A Spa 1 Bridge Utd 3, U12 girls league Division 1 A Spa 6 Deen Celtic 2. Also in action were the U8’s travelled to play Freebooters and the U10 boys made a trip to play Clover United.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO

The winning numbers were 11,13,22,23. Four lucky match three winners Billy Dermody, Robert Bennett, Pat Delaney and Frances Delaney.

URLINGFORD

EMERALDS URLINGFORD AND GRAINE LOTTO

October 7th Numbers drawn: 11, 17, 24, 28, bonus no 18. Match

3 winners: Cliodhna O’Toole, Gwen Broderick. Five lucky dips of €20 each: Tuesday Club, Shane Pollard, Hailey Ryan, Ann Burke, Grace Fitzpatrick. Promoters prize: B. Tobin.

KILKENNY LIONS CLUB:

Many thanks to Team Leader Joe Hickey and also to PRO Philip O’Neill from Kilkenny Lions Club, who presented a cheque for €1,500.00 to Mill FRC, Urlingford.

Funding will be used to support local Maths and Irish grinds.

SET DANCING

Set Dancing continues in Graine Hall every Tuesday at 8.30pm.

Music by Danny Webster. Sets called by Paddy Norton. New members welcome, young and old.

URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT

The October 13th winner of Split the Pot is Jackie Boles who received €586. Congratulations to Jackieon behalf of Clomantagh Squash Club. Tickets €2 on sale in participating businesses in town, or Revolut 086 8221832. Thanks to everyone for their continued support.

Next week’s draw is for Clomantagh Squash Club.

GRAINE CARDS

Progressive 25’s card game are held in Graine Hall every Wednesday night at 8.30pm sharp. All are welcome.

CANCER SUPPORT

Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre has an Outreach Service available to the community of Urlingford and the surrounding areas every Friday morning. Call in for a chat, support, and registration to The Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre in Kilkenny.

The Cois Nore Outreach service will be held at the Mill Family Resource Centre from 10am to 12pm. Contact 087-4833941.

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.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE

ST KIERAN’S HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY

Applications are invited for the Vacant Tenancy of a onebedroom house at St Kieran’s Place, Urlingford.  To be eligible to apply you must be on the Kilkenny County Council Housing list.  Applications are available from the Centre.

LOCAL TRAINING PROGRAMME L.T.I.

FREE L.T.I. Course, which includes Safe Pass, Manual Handling, Driving Theory/Driving lessons and much more. Course starts end of October, please contact us for further information.

COIS NORE

Outreach Advice Clinic, at the Mill every Friday Morning from 10am to 12pm

COUNSELLING SERVICES

Our low cost Counselling Services, includes One-to-One, Adult and Teens. General Counselling: Bereavement, Stress, Anxiety and Depression.Other Counselling Services available: Drug, Substance and Gambling Addictions. Play therapy is now also available. Age 4+. Please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment.

SENIOR ALERT

If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue or Josephine.

KILKENNY LIONS CLUB:

Many thanks to Team Leader Joe Hickey and also to PRO Philip O’Neill from Kilkenny Lions Club, who presented a cheque for €1,500.00 to Mill FRC, Urlingford. Funding will be used to support local Maths and Irish grinds.

DEFIBRILLATOR

There is a defibrillator located in the Mill FRC if and when it may be required. For further information please contact us on 056-8838466.

GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

Glengoole Wednesday 10am to 2pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 10am to 1pm. The rosary is recited before Mass in Glengoole every Saturday evening.

SACRAMENTAL DATES

The dates have been announced for the following sacraments in the parish. Confirmation will take place on Friday 28th February at 11am and First Holy Communion will be held on Saturday 17th May at 11am.

GORTNAHOE COMMUNITY HALL CHRISTMAS DRAW

Gortnahoe Community Hall is holding their Christmas draw on Sunday 22nd December in Gortnahoe Hall. Further details of prizes and the distribution of tickets will follow in the coming weeks. The Christmas Draw is an important fundraiser for the

Many thanks to Team leader Joe Hickey and PRO Philip O Neill from Kilkenny Lions Club, who presented a cheque for €1,500.00 to Mill FRC, Urlingford

upkeep of the Community Hall.

GORTNAHOE BINGO

Bingo continues this Saturday evening at the earlier time of 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm and will continue each Saturday evening at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game.

SPLIT THE POT

Congratulations to Seamus Doheny, Freshford who won €230 in the Split the Pot draw last Sunday. Envelopes are available in Cahill’s Gortnahoe, Hogans Grange and at the usual outlets, you can also Revolut to 0876777220. For the month of October Split the Pot will be in support of the Gortnahoe Christmas lights. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

VEHICLE RUN

A sincere thanks to everyone who supported the vehicle run organised by Lauren Ryan and Hannah Hearn in support of the Hope foundation. A special thanks to all the local people who helped in any way.

SYMPATHY

Sympathy to Carmel Delaney former principal of Glengoole school and the extended Delaney family on the death of David Delaney, Bayswell, Crosspatrick. May he rest in peace. Also sympathy to Father James Walton on the death of his uncle Michael Crotty, College Road, Kilkenny. May he rest in peace.

CATHERINE HOLOHAN

The death has occured of Catherine (Cathy) Holohan (née Pollard) Gurteen, Gortnahoe, October 11th, peacefully in the presence of her loving family in her 101st. year. Predeceased by her husband John, daughter Ann, son-in-law Billy and brothers and sisters. Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her family, Ciss, Marian, Margaret, Helen, Johnny and Michael, sonsin-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, sisters Nell and Bridgie, nieces, nephews, extended family and a wide circle of friends. Catherine reposed at Doyle’s funeral home Urlingford .Removal took place last to St. Patrick and St. Oliver’s Church Glengoole arriving for Requiem Mass. Interment took place afterwards in the adjoining Cemetery. May she rest in peace.

KILMANAGH

HALLOWEEN DISCO

St Aidan’s N.S. Parents Association presents a Halloween Disco in Ballycallan Hall on (Bank Holiday Weekend) Friday, October 25th from 6-8pm. Fancy Dress, Tuck Shop, ‘Tattoos’, Tea and Coffee. Entry Fee €5. All Little Spooks must be supervised.

HALLOWEEN FANCY DRESS

Wish to invoke your inner Vincent Price and do The Monster Mash, alongside your Ghoulish Friends ?? Well now is your chance, as River Rangers present a Halloween Fancy Dress in Ryan’s Pub, Kilmanagh on (Bank Holiday Weekend) Sunday Night, October 27th at 8pm. There’s a Raffle Draw and “Walk On” Rings Competition. Rings is €10 and Raffle Lines are €2 each, and are available from all players and committee members.

SINGING CIRCLE

The next Singing Circle in Naomh Aodhán Community Centre, Kilmanagh takes place on (Bank Holiday Weekend) Saturday, October 26ht. All Traditional Music enthusiasts are more than welcome. €2 entry, refreshments will be served and the fun continues from 7.30-9.30pm.

SOCCER FIXTURES

Saturday, October 19ht - U17 Schoolboys League: Evergreen v River Rangers Junior League Div Two: Thomastown v River Rangers

RUNNING

With the advent of winter darkness, the Running Club outings on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm, have reverted back to Callan. The new gathering point is at the Handball and Racquetball Club, beside the Primary School.

BAINISTEOIR NUA

Ballyline man Mike Wall has recently been appointed to the role of Leitrim Senior Hurling Manager for the upcoming 2025 season. Mike has had extensive experience with Kilkenny Camogie teams over the past decade, leading them to All Ireland and Leinster titles, at both Minor and Intermediate grades. He was also Kildare Senior Camogie Team Manager in 2024. Leitrim ply their trade in the Lory Meagher Cup and Division Three of the National Hurling League, playing their home games in Páirc Seán Mac Diarmada, located in the county town of Carrick-onShannon. We wish Mike the very best wishes in his task ahead.

DARTS

Ryans Pub, Kilmanagh make their inaugural bow in the Freshford and District Darts League on October 25th when they entertain Farrell’s Bar in their opening tie. Best of luck to the arrows aces.

DANCING WITH DECLAN

Social Dancing lessons in Ballycallan Hall on Monday nights.

Total Beginners : 7 - 8pm

Others : 8 - 9.30 pm. For Details contact Declan on 085 708 9128.

BODY CONDITIONING

Body conditioning classes, set to music, continues on Wednesday evenings, 7-8pm in Ballycallan Hall. Details : 087 916 1996. SET DANCING

Set Dancing classes have returned to Ballycallan Hall on Fridays from 6.30pm. Details : Mary Dunphy 086 401 0914

HOSPITAL REMEMBRANCE MASS

St. Luke’s General Hospital Annual Remembrance Mass will take place on Tuesday 22nd October at 7:30pm in St. Canice’s Parish Church, Kilkenny for families and loved ones of patients who have died in our hospital. The Mass, organised by the End of Life Care Committee, particularly remembers the patients who have died between 1st September 2023 and 31st August, 2024.

LORETO SECONDARY SCHOOL

First Year Enrolment, Autumn 2025. Closing day for applications for 1st Year is 22nd October, 2024. Applications via school website at www.loretokk.ie. Further information on our website (above).

FLOWER ARRANGING

Flower arranging course with Eva Holmes on Thursday, 17th October in Ballycallan Hall, for four consecutive Thursdays, 6.30 to 9.30. Cost €20 per person. Contact Siobhán on 087 288 7292. NAOMH AODHAN COMMUNITY CENTRE

The Naomh Aodhán Community Centre in Kilmanagh is available to hire for meetings, social occasions, etc. Contact Naomh Aodhán on 083 3413 024 for details of availability.

BALLYCALLAN COMMUNITY HALL

Ballycallan Community Hall is available for hire and events. Contact Jimmy Lynch, or any of the committee members for details. KILMANAGH NOTES

Anyone wishing to submit news items, events, announcements etc. can do so by email only to elanigan18@gmail.com. If you have any photos that you would like included, please send as an attachment.

CONAHY

HURLING

The under-16 hurlers qualified for the Roinn C County Final on Saturday last in Freshford with a good win over Tullaroan in the Roinn C semi-final. Conahy led by 1-9 to 0-7 at half-time having played into a strong breeze, with the goal coming from Brian Phelan. They scored some excellent points during the second half to gradually increase their lead, eventually winning by 1-25 to 0-9. Conahy will face St. Lachtain’s in the county final this coming weekend, with the date and time to be confirmed at the time of writing.

TEAM: Neil Webster, Rory Dunne, Tadhg Hennessy, Bobby Dooley, Darragh Horgan, Patrick Kennedy, Finn Sherman, Rory Rhatigan, Billy Rowe, Adam Morrissey, Jack Rhatigan, Joe Boland, M.J. Buggy, Brian Phelan, Rory Sherman, James Byrne, Camryn Kenehan, Padraig Quinn, Jack Gamble.

CAMOGIE

The junior camogie girls scored a good win over O’Loughlin Gaels in the opening round of the Junior C Cup in Jenkinstown on Sunday morning last. Conahy led by 2-6 to 0-4 at half-time and increased that lead further in the second half to eventually win by 4-8 to 0-6. Conahy will now face Mooncoin in the Cup quarter-final this coming weekend.

CLUB LOTTO

The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Club Lotto were 14, 15 and 17. There was no winner of the jackpot, so the consolation prize winners were Ciara Byrne, Billy Coyle, Grace Butler, Tony and Claire Gunner and Michael and Mairead Bergin. The promoter prize winners were Nora Delaney, Helen Cahill and Peter Mulhall. Many thanks to everyone who supports the GAA Club Lotto.

SPORTS CAPITAL FUNDING

Conahy Shamrocks GAA recently received €132,750 in funding via the Sport Ireland Capital Programme. This welcome support will go toward the future development of the Polo Grounds in Jenkinstown, which will be starting in the coming weeks. Many thanks to everybody in the locality who supported the application.

CONAHY BOOK CLUB

The Conahy Book Club is flying along in recent times. Books read this year include Lessons in Chemistry, Year of the Locust, A Thread of Violence, The Lost Dressmaker of Paris, Hannah Coulter, to name but a few. The Club don’t just read books, they listen to audiobooks too. So if you like to read or listen to books, why not join them for their Christmas night (they know it’s early) on Friday, November 22nd at 7.00 p.m. at The Orchard, Kilkenny, they would love to see you. The next book is “All the Colours of the Dark” by Chris Whittaker. If you would like to join the book club app, please text Marion O’Dornan on 087-1649567.

St Patrick’s Fenians Under 14 Roinn C County Champions

Loughs rule as Bridge fall to Kingdom star! Mackessy

top scores as Ryan shines

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR

UPMC Nowlan Park

O’Loughlin Gaels 2-17

Bennettsbridge 1-14

It was fairly plain sailing for reigning county champions

O’Loughlin Gaels as they secured their place in this year’s decider with a 6-point win over Bennettsbridge in UPMC Nowlan Park. In a game that promised much, it never really lived up to its billing and the holders will know that bigger challenges lie ahead, should they retain their crown when they meet Thomastown next weekend. Missing the suspended Mikey Butler and captain Mark Bergin, Brian Hogan’s outfit had big showing’s from Fionan Mackessy, Paddy Deegan and the lively Jamie Ryan.

Both sides started the first of the last four battles nervously, hitting a couple of bad wide’s, before Bennettsbridge opened the scoring in the seventh minute. Some nice play by Ciaran Brennan saw him give a pass to Hugh O’Neill, and the big midfielder split the posts. Brian Hogan’s men got off the mark shortly after, thanks to a free from Kerry star Fionan Mackessy, after Sean Bolger was fouled. The ‘Bridge retook the lead from the restart when Kevin Blanchfield took the catch and was halted illegally by a combination of Jordan Molloy and Conor Heary. Nicky Cleere stepped up and converted the placed ball from out on the right side of the pitch.

One of O’Loughlin’s best performers this season Jamie Ryan then notched what would be the first

of a 4-point haul for the midfielder, having taken a nice pass from Conor Heary. The champions then took the lead with ten minutes on the clock.

After a little bit of a shemozzle, David Fogarty emerged with the ball before striking over a stunning effort close to the right sideline, near on half way. Things got a little better from the restart when after a little bit of pinball, Jamie Ryan ran onto the loose ball before striking over another lovely score. Tim Dooley’s side needed a score and they got one, courtesy of a free from Sean Morrisey after Nicky Cleere had been fouled. The same player then drew his side level after taking a pass from Liam Blanchfield with sixteen minutes played at UPMC Nowlan Park.

The Bennettsbridge No.15 was very much to the fore for his side, and he struck his third point on the bounce when he took a short pass from Shane Byrne, before rifling over from distance. With a spring in their step, they went two clear thanks to a lovely point from James Hughes, who benefited greatly from a great break out of defence by David Blanchfield.

The Lough’s stopped the run of scores when Ronan Buckley, in for the suspended Mikey Butler found Jamie Ryan in Space and the midfielder sent over another classy score. Owen Wall was then fouled as he tried to wriggle clear of David Blanchfield’s grasp. Fionan Mackessy stood over the free just beyond the 21-yard line and struck a fierce daisycutter style shot that evaded all on the Bridge goal line to nestle in the net.

O’Loughlin Gaels then went three points clear, thanks to the quick reactions of Conor Kelly, in for suspended skipper, Mark Bergin, capitalised on some poor control from Corner back Timmy Kelly to split the posts. The Bridge were then penalised for a touch on the ground and most expected placed ball taker, Mackessy to strike for a point, but the Kerry man played the ball short to Paddy Deegan in space, and despite fumbling his pick-up first time

round, last year’s county captain sent over a booming score to leave is side firmly in control with half time only a few minutes away. The impressive Fionan Mackessy then popped over another free after Owen Wall was stopped in his tracks as he looked to drive forward. A second major almost arrived before the short whistle sounded, as Enda Cleere advanced quickly off his line to snuff out the danger from Sean Bolgers attempted strike on goal. Bolger then set up Conor Heary for a fine point as he slipped the ball to the hard-working Heary who batted over to make it double scores. Brian Hogan was then forced to make a change before the interval, when Luke Hogan pulled up sharpish with what looked like a hamstring injury and was replaced by Eoin O’Shea. The last score of the first period came from the hurl of Nicky Cleere from a ‘65 as O’Loughlin’s went into the changing rooms with a 5-point lead. When play resumed, Bennettsbridge struck first, a free from half way, converted by Nicky Cleere. The same player reduced his sides deficit to three points shortly after, intercepting Tony Forristal’s clearance before striking over. Just the start that Tim Dooley and Dan Shanahan would have wanted from their charges. O’Loughlin’s got the scoreboard moving in the second half from their top scorer, Fionan Mackessy who struck over another free, effortlessly from distance. A second burst forward from midfield by Kevin Blanchfield saw the Bridge man impeded and Nicky Cleere did the rest from the resulting free. Owen Wall then took a great score, having taken a whack from Conor Murphy and escaping the clutches of Ciaran Brennan. Referee Conor Everard issued a yellow card to the former before play resumed. Another barnstorming run from Conor Heary resulted in the O’Loughlin’s man being fouled, and this gave Fionan Mackessy a chance to increase his personal tally, a chance that he wasn’t going to

miss. The Bridge responded with a monstrous effort from play by Nicky Cleere. They built on this score by striking the next as well, another booming point, this time from Kevin Blanchfield, as the gap was back to three points again. Mackessy, again was the man to respond for Brian Hogan’s outfit, once more from a free after Bridge keeper Enda Cleere had made a mess of a free of his own placed ball. The Kerry Native notched the next score as well, from a ‘65 after more slack play from Bennettsbridge.

Jason Cleere then got his name on the scoresheet, pointing after taking a nice pass from David Blanchfield. Some neat play out of defence from O’Loughlin’s saw Ronan Buckley find Jack Nolan in acres of space centrefield, and the midfielder struck over a fine point. Then came the second major for the holders. A powerful direct burst through the middle of UPMC

Nowlan Park by Jack Nolan saw the Loughs man leave all in his wake. As he approached the danger zone, he flicked a pass to substitute Sammy Johnston who unleashed a fierce shot across Enda Cleere to the Bennettsbridge net. O’Loughlin’s now 8 points to the good with about five minutes of normal time remaining. A couple of bad wide’s followed for Tim Dooley’s side before Owen Wall passed to Jamie Ryan, who spun beautifully before rifling over.

Bennettsbridge then raised a green flag of their own as the clock approached 60 minutes. A long searching delivery into the O’Loughlin’s defence was collected by Jack Campion who struck his shot

well, but he was denied by Stephen Murphy. The rebound was collected by David Blanchfield who gave Murphy no chance with his bullet of a shot. The Bridge hit the next score also, Jack Campion passing to Timmy Kelly who split the posts with the game in injury time. The final score of the game came from the hurl of Fionan Mackessy, after Kevin Blanchfield conceded a late free. The long whistle sounded; O’Loughlin’s were through to a second consecutive county final. Final score, O’Loughlin Gaels 2-17, Bennettsbridge 1-14.

Scorers: O’Loughlin Gaels: F Mackessy (1-7, 0-7 frees); J Ryan (0-4); S Johnston (1-0); D Fogarty, P Deegan, J Nolan, O Wall, C Heary, C Kelly (0-1 each)

Scorers: Bennettsbridge: N Cleere (0-6, 0-3 frees and 0-1 ‘65); D Blanchfield (1-0); S Morrissey (0-3); T Kelly, H O’Neill, K Blanchfield, J Cleere, J Hughes (0-1 each) O’LOUGHLIN GAELS: S Murphy; T Forristal, H Lawlor, R Buckley; D Fogarty, P Deegan, J Molloy; J Ryan, J Nolan; C Kelly, O Wall, F Mackessy; S Bolger, L Hogan, C Heary.

Subs: E O’Shea for Hogan (31), S Johnston for Bolger (49), P Butler for Nolan (56), J Young for Molloy (59).

BENNETTSBRIDGE: E Cleere; T Kelly, E Morrissey, S Byrne; B Hughes, D Blanchfield, C Murphy; H O’Neill, K Blanchfield; N Cleere, J Cleere, J Hughes; C Brennan, L Blanchfield, S Morrissey.

Subs: J Campion for Brennan (42), D Murphy for O’Neill (47), R Lennon for L Blanchfield (54).

Referee: Conor Everard (Graigue Ballycallan)

James Hughes under pressure from Jordan Molloy & Paddy Deegan

Bend it like Blanchfield ! David gets his block in on Jamie Ryan

‘Town end Vegas Boys run to set up O’Loughlin’s decider

Injury to netminder Diarmuid Galway sours ‘Vat demolition Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY

UPMC Nowlan Park

Thomastown 1-27

Mullinavat 0-12

For a second consecutive year, Thomastown will contest a county final, only this time it’s the Tom Walsh Cup that will be up for grabs when they face-off against holders O’Loughlin Gaels in just over a week’s time. It will be the first time that the ‘Town will contest the senior final since their 17-point defeat to Shamrocks Ballyhale in1988. Noel Doherty’s outfit showed their ruthlessness and class as they dismantled a Mullinavat team that had surprised many be reaching the last four of this year’s championship.

By the long whistle, there were 18 points between the sides, and at no stage did it look like The Vat would repeat their shield final heroics and claim another famous scalp. The only negative on an otherwise superb performance was the injury sustained by Town netminder, Diarmuid Galway, who was replaced in goals during the second period by Paul Barron, following a collision

The All-Ireland intermediate winners came out of the blocks quickly and established a 5-point

lead with just over 10 minutes played at headquarters with scores from Robbie Donnelly (0-4), Colm Treacy, John Donnelly and captain, Peter McDonald. The Vegas Boys were struggling to get any foothold in the game, and only had one player on the scoresheet, a couple of efforts from John Walsh. Stephen Donnelly got in on the act with a lovely brace, while Robbie’s radar was definitely in, as he also added to his growing tally.

While Colm O’Byrne’s side did try to remain in the contest, they struggled

to tag on more than two scores in a row, which against the free scoring Thomastown was proving to be a big problem. Robbie Donnelly kept taking his opportunities, while Peter McDonald and Colm Treacy also doubled their tallies as their side found themselves in a commanding position at the interval, leading 0-16 to 0-7.

Mullinavat knew that a fast start was needed to the second period and they would need to minimise scores for their opponents, but Stephen Donnelly got the scoreboard moving, and while The Vat replied, Thomastown were relentless. Robbie popped over another score, while Connellan’s, Luke and Rory also notched scores as Noel Doherty’s men went 12 points up. The Vegas Boys then reeled off two scores on the bounce, but again the superior firepower of their opponent was evident. Zack Bay Hammond fired over a lovely point while Robbie Donnelly added another, but then any potential or lingering doubts of a comeback were quashed. Robbie Donnelly struck a free from out the park and as it dropped short of its intended target, Tucker O’Hanrahan used all his nous to bat the sliotar to the net. Thomastown’s lead was now 15 points with about eleven minutes of normal time remaining. Like all good teams do, the

’Town stuck the next two points via Donnelly’s, John and Robbie. Colm O’Byrne’s charges hit a couple of consolation points, but Luke Connellan, Robbie Donnelly and goal scorer O’Hanrahan notched further points to leave the final score at UPMC Nowlan Park, Thomastown 1-27, Mullinavat 0-12.

Scorers: Thomastown - Robbie Donnelly (0-10, 9f, 1 65), Thomas O’Hanrahan (1-2), Stephen Donnelly (0-4), Peter McDonald, Colm Treacy, John Donnelly, Brian Staunton, Luke Connellan (0-2 each), Rory Connellan (0-1)

Scorers: Mullinavat - John Walsh (0-7, 5f), Oisin Knox (0-3), Mick Malone, Willie O’Dwyer (0-1 each).

Thomastown - D Galway; P Connellan, J Burke, N Kirwan; B Staunton, E Donnelly, Z Bay Hammond; JJ Farrell, P McDonald; R Donnelly, L Connellan, J Donnelly; R Connellan, S Donnelly, C Treacy. Subs – N Dempsey for E Donnelly, D Prendergast for P McDonald, T O’Hanrahan for R Connellan, P Barron for D Galway, J Holden for S Donnelly.

Mullinavat - S Fitzpatrick; B Dempsey, T Aylward, R Davis; I Duggan, P Dempsey, G O’Connor; A Mansfield, J Gahan; M Malone, J Walsh, C Walsh; O Knox, G Malone, B Phelan. Subs - W O’Dwyer for C Walsh, P McDonald for R Davis, P Gahan for B Phelan.

Referee: Michael O’Sullivan (Shamrocks Ballyhale)

Planning notices

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Further Information/ Revised Plans

We, Helen and Mike Philips, Reference number of the application:2360547, have applied to the above authority for full planning permission for proposed works to our existing dwelling. The works include modifications to existing front elevation, construction of extension to side and conversion of existing attached garage to habitable space together with all associated site works at Moonarche Commons, Callan, Co. Kilkenny..

Significant Further Information/Revised Plans has/have been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development, and is/are available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the Offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours of 9:00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the Planning Authority within a period of 2 weeks from the date of receipt of the revised public notices. A submission or observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee of €20, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Helen and Mike Philips.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Bríd Mackey, wish to apply to the above authority for full planning permission to construct a detached domestic garage and all associated site works at Clonassy, Mullinavat, Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Bríd Mackey

KILKENNY

COUNTY COUNCIL

We, John and Denise Lawlor intend to submit Significant Further Information to Kilkenny County Council subsequent to Planning Application Ref Number 24/60366, to retain (a) roof profile of existing dwelling (b) location of existing dwelling (c) the position of entrance from previous permitted planning permission ref number 98/830 and all associated site development works at Raheen, Dunnamaggin, Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 2 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Michael Morris intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for permission to erect a temporary new garden storage shed at 41, Clonkil, Callan, 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.

Signed: Michael Morris

KILKENNY

COUNTY COUNCIL

Significant Further Information/Revised Plans

We, Rebecca Maher and Brian Fitzpatrick intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for planning permission for a Proposed new two storey dwelling, proposed vehicular entrance, driveway, borewell, wastewater treatment system with percolation area, stormwater soakaways, detached garage, landscaping and all associated site works at Ballydowel Little, Rathmoyle, Co. Kilkenny. Ref. No. of the application: 2460304.

Significant Further Information/Revised plans have been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development, and is available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the Offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours of 9:00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the Planning Authority within a period of 2 weeks from the date of receipt of the revised public notices. A submission or observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee of €20, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

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.K..

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. B.H.

The

Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.S.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.C.

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. D.C.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.B.

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. P.OD.