Kilkenny Observer 27th September 2024

Houses are now €287,500

Second-hand three-bed semi in Kilkenny

The price of the average second-hand three-bed semi in Co. Kilkenny has increased to €292,500, up 1.7% from €287,500 in the last three months, according to a national survey by Real Estate Alliance.

Across the county, the average time taken to sell is currently seven weeks, the Q3 RE A Average House Price In-

The heart is safe in long-term Covid-19

As we approach World Heart Day, this Sunday 29th September 29, a SETANTA study by the CVRI in collaboration with Mater Private Network and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, undertook the task of understanding the impact previous Covid-19 infection had on our long-term heart health.  Results showed that, while long Covid symptoms have been seen to have an impact on our wellness, detrimental implications on the heart as a result of Covid were minimal, which is hugely encouraging news.

The largest study of its kind in Ireland, the research reveals that, while many Irish patients continue to experience cardiac symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath, advanced tests show no significant long-term heart damage.

The SETANTA study, conducted in collaboration with the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) enrolled patients voluntarily through their GP practices. Evaluating 100 Irish participants through rigorous testing, including cardiac MRI scans, blood tests, ECGs, and heart monitors, this new study confirmed that while over 80% of patients initially reported ongoing symptoms, results showed no signs of lasting heart damage — a hugely reassuring finding for the public.

dex shows.

“We are still seeing a strong market, and prices are continuing to rise due to a lack of stock,” said Robbie Grace of REA Grace, Callan.

The survey shows that across the county, 47p% of purchasers were first-time buyers and 13% of purchasers were from outside of the county.

A total of 18% of sales in the county this quarter were attributed to landlords leaving the market.

The REA Average House Price Index concentrates on the sale price of Ireland’s typical stock home, the threebed semi, giving an accurate picture of the second-hand property market in towns and cities countrywide.

The actual selling price of a three-bed, semi-detached house across the country rose by 2.7% in the past three months to €323,741. Time taken to reach sale agreed nationally has dropped to four weeks as low supply continues to drive sales.

A supply drought in Dublin has reignited the commuter

property market as buyers battle to secure affordable family homes, the Index has found.

Frustration in the capital has led to the return of the previously unheated commuter market, which has risen by 2.9% over the past three months to an average of €336,944.

And further afield, large

John is getting on, on his own

towns such as Ennis,

and

have experienced previously increases of €20,000 in the past three months.

Actual selling prices in Dublin city rose by 1.3pc in the last three months, and the average three-bed semi in the capital is now selling at €532,333 – an annual increase of 7.4%.

Our Enya still in Eurovision

Kilkenny star Enya Cox Dempsey’s journey in the Junior Eurovision competition continues.

The 14-year-old from Castlecomer made it to the Top 10 of the televised contest. Enya’s rendition of Olivia Rodrigo’s Drivers License ‘as gaeilge’ proved popular and kept her in the running with Safiya Devlin and Harry Greaney failing to advance. Overall winner will be revealed on Sunday, October 13.

Local Palestinian solidarity group

Kilkenny Community Palestine Solidarity Group came about through a weekly vigil, Wednesday 5.30 – 6.00 p.m. at the Town Hall, High Street, Kilkenny, asking for a ceasefire. The vigil was started last October and, originally called by Kevin Shore, it is being supported by people of “all parties or no party”. It may well be the longestrunning weekly Palestine support vigil in Ireland.

The Kilkenny group supports the national and local actions of the Irish Palestine Solidarity Campaign including boycotts of Israeli goods, it supported the Irish Government’s recognition of the State of Palestine and opposes any use of Shannon Airport for transit of war materials.

This Friday September 27th, the KCPSG will be giving a free showing of Five Broken Cameras at St Canice’s Neighbourhood Hall, Butts Green. The doors will open at 6.30 for teas and coffees and the film will start at 7 pm.

Tralee, Tullamore

Athlone

John Grace from Kilkenny features in a video to promote the Housing Agency’s Journey to Independent Living campaign and was in Dublin for the launch of their website along with Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien.

Pictured, from left, are Sarah Jane Lavin from Kildare, Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien TD, John Grace from Kilkenny, Susan Reynolds from Dublin and Claire Feeney, Director of Services and Inclusion at The Housing Agency.

Schoolgirls take a step into their future

The Shona Project, a non-profit organisation which strives to create a support system for Irish girls as they navigate their way through their teenage years, has announced details of a new mentorship programme which sets out to pair adolescent girls around Ireland with professional female mentors.   The businesses announced as taking part in the first year of the programme are Allianz, CBRE, Fitzgerald Power, McCann Fitzgerald, Salesforce, &Smyth Creative Communications and VHI. These companies will supply a total of 26 professional mentors who were paired with a teenage girl from schools around the country until the end of the this school year. Among the girls taking part in the pilot programme are Lily Ann Holden, Kia Fahy, Taryn Morant, and Hollie Gorman from Presentation Secondary School, Kilkenny.

For the 2024-25 academic year, The Shona Project are on track to reach almost 190,000 girls across Ireland through their workshops, events, and other projects.

According to Tammy Darcy, Founder and CEO, The Shona Project: “Research on the benefits of mentoring has shown that it can result in better academic performance, better school attendance, positive

attitudes, decreased likelihood of initiating illegal drug and alcohol use and decreased violent behaviour. It has also been linked in studies to social-emotional development benefits, improvements in youth perceptions of parental relationships, and better prospects for moving on to higher education.”

By facilitating connections between adolescent schoolgirls and women in the workplace, The Shona Project hopes that girls will have:

• Increased understanding of career options, journeys, and experiences of women in the workplace

• Increased career aspirations and an expanded

network of career support

• Increased confidence to find and implement solutions to the challenges they may face

• Enhanced understanding of how to create and implement a strategy for themselves and plan for future

The development of the initiative was supported by three

leading Irish businesswomen, Oonagh O’Hagan, Lucy Gaffney and Eva Pau who funded the research and refinement of the concept.

The programme will run across a nine-month period, which entitles the teenage girls to seven sessions with their assigned mentor. Each mentor will be provided with

the training and tools to help provide the best possible outcomes for each mentee. Alongside Presentation Secondary School, Comeragh College, Tipperary, Presentation Secondary School, Waterford, Presentation College, Carlow, and Coláiste Mhuire Askeaton, Limerick will also be taking part.

Back to the future: from left, Hollie Gorman, Kia Fahy, Tammy Darcy, CEO and Founder of The Shona Project, Taryn Morant and Lily Ann Holden from Presentation Secondary School, Kilkenny at the launch of The Shona Project’s new mentorship programme PHOTO: Chris Bellew / Fennell Photography

Páirc Uí Chaoimh ‘for Euro games’

Páirc Uí Chaoimh should be considered as alternative venue for 2028 European Championships, according to Kathleen Funchion MEP

The Sinn Féin MEP for Ireland South has invited all Irish MEPs to co-sign a letter to UEFA requesting they consider Páirc Uí Chaoimh in Cork City as an ideal replacement venue

and city for the Euro 2028 games that were designated for Belfast.

Ms Funchion said: “Today I have invited all Irish MEPs to co-sign a letter to UEFA with the aim of keeping the Euro 2028 fixtures which were to be designated for Belfast on the island of Ireland.

In the letter, we will be en-

A new adventure for Orla Donohoe running for The Freedom Party

Orla Donohoe is running for the General Election in the Carlow/Kilkenny constituency with the Irish Freedom Party.

This is her first time involved in politics, she says, “as I am not from a political family. It was like starting on a new adventure.

“While out canvessing I met the loveliest people and received the warmest wishes which meant a great deal to me especially being a first time candidate.”

She told The Kilkenny Observer: “For me I feel we are handing over a worse country to our children than our parents gave us and that’s not how society is supposed to work.

“Our current so called policical leaders are failing in their duties and they are not representing the will of the majority of people. Take the recent referendum results the people of Ireland spoke clearly but their

voices had not been listened to beforehand.

“All of our systems are failing like housing, education and healthcare etc. We have endless waiting lists for assessments like special needs and medical appointments.

“Look at the recent over spending on the children’s hospital which never seems to end and the blatant disregard for taxpayers’ money being spent on a ‘bike shed’ while many families out there are in desperate needs of services and assistance.”

She said she choose the Irish Freedom Party as it was a fairly new party and was full of fresh ideas and a real drive to try and do their best for our country and it’s people.

“The Irish Freedom is a national movement of the Irish people and a political party with the primary objective of re-establishing the national independence and sovereignty of Ireland,” she said.

couraging UEFA to consider Pair Uí Chaoimh in Cork City as an alternative venue for the fixtures, and ultimately keeping the island of Ireland as a central part of the Euro 2028.

“The decision not to proceed with Casement Park in time to host UEFA Euro 2028 is deeply disappointing and a missed opportunity not only

for local sport, but for the local economy. However, we believe it is important that the games remain on the island of Ireland.

“The island of Ireland has a great sporting history and culture, and international football has always been a source of unity in Irish society,” she said.

“Therefore, it is our view that

Páirc Uí Chaoimh in Cork City is the ideal replacement venue and city for the games designated for Belfast. Cork City not only has a stadium that would satisfy UEFA criteria, but also has an international airport and all the necessary amenities for hosting such a large international event.

“There has been calls locally

for Páirc Uí Chaoimh to be seriously considered, we are adding our voice to those calls, and understand the GAA is open to the idea and would welcome discussions, this is an outstanding opportunity for Cork and Ireland to show we have the capability to host international tournaments of this size and scale.”

Opening a chapter in our libraries

The crucial role of Kilkenny public libraries in local community life will be highlighted on National Public Libraries Open Day this Saturday, September 28.

Non-members and members alike are encouraged to ‘Take A Closer Look’ and visit their local public library on National Public Libraries Open Day to explore the myriad of free services on offer.

According to Dr Stuart Hamilton [pictured], Head of Libraries Development for the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA), part of the remit of public libraries is to provide assistance to society where it is required.

“Irish public libraries have

a proud and long-standing history of being integral within our villages, towns and cities in supporting people on an individual and a collective, community basis,” he said.

“They continue to fulfil an integral role in Irish life and, as their importance has continued to grow, the services provided have expanded to meet the needs of individual members and broader society.

“We aim to create a habit of visiting the public library among people who might not otherwise.

“Irish public libraries are important places of inclusivity within our communities.

“They provide a diverse range of resources and ser-

vices to appeal to people of all abilities across society.

“Public libraries are connectors in the community.

The local librarian will know the groups working to support learning, develop skills, support jobs seekers and those with special needs, and will be able to tell you who to talk to.

“Public libraries are community settings offering a broad range of free services which allow people connect, access information, receive support and browse and escape.”

Anna Marie Delaney, Chair of the National Libraries Development Committee, said National Public Libraries Open Day will highlight the crucial role of libraries in

communities.

“Public libraries are vibrant, inclusive community hubs providing all sorts of events and activities within our villages, towns and cities,” she said.

“Diversity of resources and services includes encouraging reading at all levels, improving digital skills and literacy, enabling formal and informal learning and supporting the provision of information and guidance on every topic.”

Libraries across the region will be showcasing their services throughout National Public Libraries Open Day.

*More information is available at: https://www. librariesireland.ie/nationalpublic-libraries-open-day

Cocaine traces found in two 400-year-old bodies

Traces of cocaine have been discovered in the brains of two people who died in Italy 400 years ago, revealing that the drug was being used in Europe much earlier than previously thought.

University of Milan researchers have discovered the remnants of the narcotic in two bodies buried in a 17th-century hospital cemetery in Milan.

The experts found three key molecules – cocaine, hygrine and benzoylecgonine – in the

brain tissue of the two individuals, who likely used the substance to self-medicate just before they died.

“It may have been administered as part of a medical remedy by healers not practising in the hospital,” researcher Gaia Giordano told Live Science.

The study, published in the Journal of Archaeological Science, said that the narcotic was likely consumed by chewing coca leaves known as Erythroxylum coca.

Previously, the plant was believed to have reached Europe from South America in the 19th century.

But the study said it was now clear it arrived almost two centuries earlier than that.

“These laboratory analyses not only backdate the arrival of the Erythroxylum spp by almost two centuries in Europe,” Ms Giordano said.

“They also demonstrate that some Milanese citizens came into contact with

this New World plant and chewed or brewed its leaves as tea.”

The Milanese hospital records don’t mention cocaine as a treatment until the 19th century, so it is likely that these two individuals had sourced coca leaves by themselves, the researchers said.

The presence of cocaine in the brain tissue hinted that the cocaine intake happened when the users were close to death, they said.

The Fact Of The Matter

Paul

Hopkins

TD or not TD, that is the question...

Meath West TD Damien English will not be standing in the General Election. Last year, he resigned as a junior minister following controversy over property declarations. His announcement brings to 17 Fine Gael TDs who will not be running again. The departures not only raises questions about the party’s ability to contest the election but also why so many politicians, still relatively young, are choosing not to make a lifetime career of the job.

For some it is a lifestyle choice. Donegal’s Joe McHugh was the first Fine Gael TD to announce that he would not be contesting the General Election. “The reason for this is a simple one. I have three children and, as they grow older, I want to be around more and available to them, [whereas] politics is a 24/7 job that demands absolute commitment,” he said.

Family reasons, too, played

a part in Kerry TD Brendan Griffin’s decision to step away. Griffin, who was elected in 2011, said: “The reason for my decision is very straightforward, I want to be around my children for the remaining years of their childhood.”

He also said that he had never envisaged having a long career in politics. “I wanted to give it everything I could while I could and the minute I felt that I couldn’t give it 100% commitment, I would step back.”

There can be other reasons for stepping down. CarlowKilkenny TD John Paul Phelan (45), first elected in 2011, cited his health as the main reason. He had had a heart attack during the Covid19 pandemic.

“Once I regained consciousness that day, a doctor asked about my work, lifestyle and the need to remove stress from my life and change

how I lived. When I told him my job we both laughed. In reality that prognosis has not changed.”

Despite many of those not running again being relatively young, when measured against political lifetimes, age can, obviously, be a factor.

Murphy. He was re-elected in 2007.

At the time of his notice to quit, he said: “Politics by its nature requires renewal and it’s time for me to move on.” He hadn’t really thought about his retirement, saying that he was “focused

Stanton, stepping down after more than 25 years in office, said: “You have to be realistic, you can’t keep going this way into your 70s.”

Retiring Dublin Bay North TD Richard Bruton is 70. His career in politics has spanned 41 years, having first been elected in 1982. Announcing his decision, he said: “This is the right time, as new constituencies are forming, to give others the chance to take on the role.”

Annual road hurling at Johnswell

Minister for Justice and Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan was first elected in 1987. The Laois-Offaly TD said it was the right time to step away. “It is 36 years since I was first elected to Dáil Eireann. Between my father Oliver J and myself that’s 80 years of public service and 23 General Elections. Now it’s time to pass the baton to a younger generation.”

Fergus O’Dowd (75) has served in the Louth and East

Meath constituency and been a public representative for 50 years. Talk about a week being a long time in politics. Others believe politics has changed – and not for the better. Stalking, and growth of the alt-right. Former junior minister and TD for Galway East Ciaran Cannon cited a “coarseness and toxicity” in politics in his decision not to run again. “What we are experiencing right now goes far beyond [public scrutiny] and can be deeply damaging to our wellbeing. At times it feels like it’s open season on you and your family. That’s not acceptable, nor indeed sustainable, if we want to have good people choosing politics as a career.”

In the final analysis, for those stepping down, perhaps many are reaching a point, as all of us can do in our careers, regarding what else they want to do with their personal lives. While they still have time...

A fantastic evening was had in Johnswell at the annual road hurling.

evening was attended by Senior Kilkenny Hurlers, Paddy Deegan and Huw Lawlor, also local Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick.

Kilkenny County Council Library Service to mark National Public Libraries Day 2024

Kilkenny County Council Library Service is one of 300+ libraries marking National Public Libraries Day 2024 on Saturday, 28th September.  This initiative aims to highlight the vital role of public Libraries in Irish society, raise awareness of the diverse services they offer and encourage people to become members.

To coincide with the day, the Take a Closer Look campaign is encouraging people to take a look at the wideranging free services open to them through their Libraries.  Over 784,000 people, equating to around one in six of the population, are members of the 330 libraries across Ireland, with membership free.

“National Public Libraries Open Day provides a unique opportunity to promote Library Services and celebrate their role in Irish life.  Ireland’s public Libraries have a proud and long-standing history of being integral within our villages, towns and Cities in supporting people on an individual and a collective, community basis. They also play a very important role in supporting people access services such as technology and educational supports to help them in their lives”, comments Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr. Michael McCarthy.

Programme of Events:

Graiguenamanagh Library: Talk with food nutritionist Anna Phelan at 11am,

exploring the food pyramid, practical advice on reading food labels, and busting common food myths. Drop-in craft activity for children, no booking required.

Ferrybank Library: Coffee morning from 11am-12.30pm for “Memories of South Kilkenny.” Bring along photos of Ferrybank or South Kilkenny to help digitise and preserve the area’s history. Family LEGO and Boardgame morning from 10am1pm. All welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult.

Castlecomer Library:  Tales and reflections from 2004.  Folklore exhibition showcasing local stories and reflections from 2004, created by pupils from four local schools (Firoda N.S., Lisnafunchin N.S., Covent of Mercy N.S. Ballyragget and Presentation Convent N.S., Castlecomer). Call into the library to revisit life as it was in 2004! We are delighted that this project will be added to the Kilkenny Digital Archive so that it can be enjoyed by future generations to come. You can also view this online from the 27th September.   There will be a special Bee-Themed Storytime and craft for children from 11.30am12.30pm.

Mayfair Library: Showcase of Kanopy, a new streaming service for movies, TV

series, and documentaries available exclusively to Kilkenny Library members.

Thomastown Library: Sustainable STEM Workshop from 10-10.45am, creating a wind turbine using recycled materials and learn all about renewable energy. Suitable for children aged 8-12 years, booking required. Contact Thomastown Library at thomastown@kilkennylibrary.ie or 056 7794331”.  Storytime and crafts at 11.30am, open to all, no booking required.

Callan Library: Children can enjoy Crafts, LEGO, and board games. Staff will be available to assist with membership and answer any questions.

Urlingford Library: Creation Station for children with some spooky surprises.   Drop in, no booking required. “I would encourage everyone to check out their local Library Service in Kilkenny where we have a network of 8 Branch Libraries, a Mobile Library Service and a Local Studies Service" comments County Librarian Josephine Coyne. “The services we provide are expanding all the time and we would love to see more people using their local Library - one of the best free resources that they have on their doorstep” she added.

Irish soldier dies in Ukraine

A former elite Irish soldier has been killed in combat in Ukraine. Robert Deegan (29), from Newbridge, Co Kildare, was killed in action fighting for the Ukrainian special forces on the front line on Thursday, September 19.

The Kildare man was a highly skilled soldier who served in the Army Ranger Wing and the Engineers Unit

of the Defence Forces Training Centre.

It is understood Mr Deegan joined the Ukrainian effort to combat the Russian invasion shortly after the outbreak of the war in 2022. However, he suffered extensive injuries in an explosion later the same year and was medically evacuated home to Ireland.

After undergoing reha-

Landless on the ground for Samhain at Visual

Kilkenny audiences set to enjoy the festival of Samhain at Visual when Landless [pictured] will perform as part of the festival which will take place at the end of October

The ancient Celtic traditions of Samhain, marking the end of the harvest season and the start of winter, will be revived in the VISUAL Theatre this Halloween.

Celebrated as the Celtic New Year, Samhain was believed to be the time when the veil between the living and the dead was especially thin—allowing spirits to visit the living.

VISUAL CEO and Artistic Director, Emma Lucy O’Brien, said this year’s programme has been crafted to bring in traditional Samhain elements and modern Halloween celebrations.

bilitation, Mr Deegan was "laser-focused” on returning to Ukraine and was "deeply committed” to the Ukrainian cause, a source said.

In his youth, Mr Deegan was a highly regarded cyclist and represented Ireland internationally.

A source in Newbridge described Mr Deegan as a "great young man”.

"You could always tell there was something different, quite special about him,” the source said.

"I haven't seen him in a long time but I did hear he was back in Ukraine and I remember thinking how difficult that must be on his poor mam.

"Now they get this news and it's just heartbreaking.

But they must be so proud of him and themselves for raising a man to be so selfless.”

It is understood his family are steeped in public service and have a long history in the Defence Forces.

A spokesperson from the Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed it is providing consular assistance.

"The Department of Foreign Affairs is aware of reports and is providing consular assistance. As with all consular cases, the department does not comment on the detail of individual cases,” the spokesperson said.

Mr Deegan's death brings to five the number of Irish people killed during the war between Russia and Ukraine.

A new civil society alliance, launched recently, is demanding a 40% gender quota for local election candidates as a key measure to address gender inequality in the next programme for government.

The group is dedicated to addressing the imbalance of representation of women at all levels of politics and wants to keep this critical issue front and center as the General Election approaches.

Led by the National Women’s Council (NWC), the Alliance brings together leading academics, and advocates for Traveller, migrant, and disabled women, all united in their call for fairer political representation.

Rachel Coyle, Head of Campaigns and Mobilisation at

NWC, said: “The numbers of women in politics matter. At local level they tell a stark story of gender inequality. Women make up just 26% of local authority members, with only 247 out of 949 councillors being women. Only nine out of 31 local authorities have reached the critical 30% threshold for female representation. Women are reshaping politics and driving vital issues — like genderbased violence and reproductive health — onto the agenda, but progress is painfully slow.

"The poor results for women in June’s local elections are a wake-up call and we cannot wait another local election cycle for political parties to take this seriously."

As I See It Marianne

Heron

You can pedal but you can’t piddle ...

Do you ever get the feeling that the Government gets some of its priorities wrong? If you or I got an amazing windfall we would most likely spend it on something that would really make a difference rather than put it towards general expenses where it would get swallowed without trace. Not so with the Government’s €14 billion Apple w indfall. As individual Ministers write their wish lists like letters to Santa, we have been told that the windfall is to be spent on infrastructure. I have a few suggestions about how it could be spent to deal with things we have been putting up with for much too long. It might seem trivial but take an everyday inconvenience and you are out in a town or city and you need to pee but where do you go when you need to go?

Millions have been spent on cycle lanes (sometimes in places where cyclists aren’t to be seen) and on racks to hold electric bikes for hire. But public conveniences are in woefully short supply. Toilets usually hidden in some distant corner of a shopping mall requiring a sat nav to find them or you buy a coffee so you can use the facilities in a café. The way things are you can pedal but you can’t piddle. Moving on to tragic issues: the situation at Limerick University Hospital (LUH) has been an ongoing scandal for years. How many more avoidable deaths – like 16 year-old Aoife Johston who died because of lack of attention and life-saving antibiotics to treat meningitis – w ill there be in the chronically over-crowded, poorly managed hospital if there isn’t a remedy? How much would it cost to get one of

the hospitals in the region, where their closures contributed to the crisis at LHU, repurposed and running again? Surely only a fraction of the €2.3 billion spent so far on the troubled National Children’s Hospital (NCH). Why not tackle some of the issues which have been dragging on through the headlines in a way that shames a country as wealthy as ours?

There are nearly 300 children in need on scoliosis/ spina bifida surgery on waiting lists, some of them for years. Why not beef up the unit to treat them, bringing in additional specialists and nurses, instead of kicking the can down the road and sending these children with their parents overseas for treatment in the US or UK , especially when some families involved are not in a position to travel. What about the H word?

Cllr Joe Lyons welcomes funding

Cllr Joe Lyons was very proud to announce the awarding of the following funding under the Sports Capital Grants, Callan Golf Club €186,869, John Lockes HC €89,724, Windgap GAA €55,814, Dunnamaggin HC €102,404, Stoneyford Development Association €97,901. These grants may be used for the purchase of equipment and furniture, the renovation or refurbishment of facilities, and the restoration or construction of a building.

The Sports Capital Grant Programme aims to allocate funds to sports clubs for the establishment, enhancement or renovation of sports and physical recreation facilities. The creation or improvement of facilities such as playing fields, training grounds, lighting installations, artificial turf fields, and clubhouses, as well as the acquisition of sports equipment like fitness machines and accessories.

Counsellor Lyons expressed the importance of these grants to local communities especially with regards to sports and fitness. “with ever increasing numbers of people from children to young adults and indeed

the elderly becoming more involved in sport and fitness activities this money is well spent, as it encourages people to become fit and stay fit which has a huge positive result on their health and pays back enormous dividends to the health sector by getting people healthy and staying healthy” he told the

can, and to be of assistance to each of the recipients in how they invest these grants in their local clubs and communities.

He congratulated the Committee of each club and association and had great praise for the Government especially John Paul Phelan for their insight into such an important scheme and the

There are more than 2,000 homeless families, two thirds of them Irish and over half of them are single parent families. Even at the

“A few suggestions about how €14bn could be spent...

exorbitant €500,000 cost of building a house in Dublin (or €400,000 elsewhere), it would take €1,000 million to clear the housing list, less than a tenth of the Apple money. It could cost a great deal less if different housing systems were used. What people want is their own front door rather than being asked to spend around €1,500 a month or more for non-existent rental property. How much would giving everyone cut-price transport or even free transport – assuming that there are busses or trains available – to cut down on carbon emissions?

Or promote a share car system like the successful Open Fleet system used in France?

One of the great things about a windfall in private life is that you can meet needs that you couldn’t afford before. Wouldn’t it be worth investing in consul-

tants to set up a new body and sweep away the bureaucratic Augean Stable of our planning system which blocks progress? Might be an idea to do the same with the Health Service Executive (HSE). We spend well above the EU average per capita on health, yet we have we have among the lowest number of beds and doctors, although surprisingly perhaps, we have the best life expectancy at 82.

More radically still, how much would it cost to create a national health service rather than our two-tier system, where if you are insured you get treated and if you aren’t you wait for treatment?

Or how about a purposebuilt reception centre to process asylum seekers rapidly with an integration or a return system to their country of entry. I can always wish…

Support your physical performance with Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine by both men and women. The herb’s adaptogenic properties may help to improve energy levels and reduce fatigue associated with stress and low mood. It may help balance mood swings and enhance emotional well-being.

Ashwagandha may also support testosterone levels. Men particularly like it for this reason. Higher testosterone levels can help improve muscle mass, energy, and libido. Some studies suggest that it may improve sperm count, motility and overall fertility, making it a useful supplement to consider for those experiencing infertility issues.

Both men and women use Ashwagandha to help support their physical performance by increasing muscle mass strength and endurance. It may also help increase energy and reduce muscle fatigue. And importantly it helps aid muscle recovery after exercise which can help if you are doing strength training or high-intensity workouts.

Ashwagandha is a popular choice to help reduce stress levels, and to help the body

deal with stress. With reduced stress, you may notice that you have better focus, memory and can think more clearly. It may have a calming effect on the body which can also help lead to better quality sleep.

There are lots of types of Ashwagandha supplements available. Take a look at KSM-66 Ashwagandha this is a specific, highly concentrated full-spectrum form of Ashwagandha root extract. It is known for its high potency and standardised production process. This is the most researched and widely used form of the herb and is known for its potency and is a trusted form of Ashwagandha.

One of my favourite supplements is One Nutrition Ashwagandha. It contains 600mg

of KSM-66 Ashwagandha per two capsules, I like that it also contains Magnesium and Zinc for additional benefits. Magnesium contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system, the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, and to normal psychological function. Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal cognitive function, normal testosterone levels in the blood, and contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress.

If you are looking for a supplement to support energy, sleep, mental clarity, and stress levels, that may help boost libido, physical performance, and recovery, then One Nutrition Ashwagandha with Magnesium and Zinc may be the supplement for you.

CLAIR WHITTY

SPECIAL REPORT

Representatives from community mental health teams and services across HSE Dublin and South East attended a regional meeting in Waterford’s Granville Hotel to discuss the implementation of Sharing The Vision, Ireland’s national mental health policy.

Mary Butler, TD, Minister for Mental Health and Older People, addressed the audience and acknowledged the significant work happening in mental health in the region.

The 100 recommendations in Sharing The Vision cover the full spectrum of mental health supports across the entire life span from mental health promotion and wellbeing, through primary care and community supports, to specialist mental health services.

Among the areas highlighted are:

• Crisis Resolution Services: These are currently in development across five locations and will provide a further pathway to care for people who are experiencing a mental health crisis.

• Social Prescribing: In 2023, 5,589 people accessed social prescribing services nationwide. 65% of referrals related to social isolation and 15% related to mental health, with all age groups from 18 to over 75 years of age represented. Social prescribing has been demonstrated to have a positive impact on a very wide range of outcomes, including decreases in loneliness and improvements in mental health, social connections and in overall wellbeing.

• CAMHS Hubs: A new service development, which provides brief intensive supports to children and young people who are experiencing a mental health crisis. By ensuring timely access to help, these services play an important role in supporting the young person and their families in their recovery journey. Five CAMHS Hubs across the country aim to reduce hospital admission

South East discuss Sharing The Vision mental health policy

by providing intensive supports during times of acute mental health crisis.

Minister Butler said: “I am really pleased to be here in Waterford with colleagues from across the health region to hear about the progressive work happening locally in line with Sharing the Vision. The examples of work showcased here display how we are making progress in addressing people’s mental health needs, from community-based supports all the way through to specialist mental health services.

“The implementation of this policy is a key priority for me and today represents

an opportunity for national and local teams working on the implementation of the policy to come together, share learnings, seek input, and consider how we can continue to work together to overcome challenges.”

Sinead Reynolds, incoming Integrated Healthcare Manager for HSE Dublin and South East, said: “This event is a significant one within the new HSE Dublin and South East Health Region and highlights the importance of collaboration. We are delighted to welcome representatives from mental health teams across the Health Region as well as members of the

National Implementation and Monitoring Committee of Sharing the Vision who are holding their second regional meeting here today in Waterford. This is a great opportunity for people who have oversight of the implementation of the policy to meet with frontline staff and hear about opportunities for, and challenges to, implementation.”

Dervila Eyres, Chair of the HSE Implementation Group, highlighted the importance of frontline staff in the implementation of Sharing The Vision: “With its 100 recommendations, Sharing the Vision is a considerable undertaking

and implementation is only possible with the support and collaboration of our mental health colleagues and those working across the wider health service, as well as our community and voluntary sector partners. We know there are a number of aspects of our mental health services that need to be improved and Sharing the Vision provides a framework in which we can implement real and meaningful change which will have a positive impact on people’s lives long into the future.”

*Pictured above, from left, are Anne Donaghey

(Head of Service for Mental Health, South East Community Healthcare), Niamh McAlinden (Head of Service for Mental Health, Community Healthcare East), Derek Chambers (Policy Implementation Lead, HSE Mental Health), Minister of State for Mental Health Mary Butler, TD, Catherine Brogan (Chair of the National Implementation and Monitoring Committee), Dervila Eyres (Head of Operations, HSE Mental Health) and Sinead Reynolds (Incoming Integrated Healthcare Area Manager Waterford/Wexford, HSE Dublin and South East)

Women ‘embarrassed’ to discuss cancer signs with GP

One in seven women in Ireland said they would not attend a doctor with cancer warning signs as they find it embarrassing to discuss symptoms, and one in five would not go to the doctor as they do not want to talk to the GP receptionist about symptoms. Furthermore, one in three would not attend if they found it difficult to get an appointment with a particular doctor.

Dr Claire Thompson, consultant gynaecologist at The Mater Hospital said:”Early detection is crucial for improving survival rates among

those with gynaecological cancers. Women need to attend their GP as early as possible if they are worried about potential cancer symptoms. There is no reason to feel embarrassed when speaking about gynaecological issues, especially with medical professionals.”

In the Republic of Ireland, more than 1400 gynaecological cancers are diagnosed annually, representing 12% of female cancers. In Northern Ireland on average 587 gynaecological cancers are diagnosed a year, also representing 12% of female cancers.

Public awareness of gynaecological cancers remains worryingly low. This lack of awareness is also impacting women’s GP attendance.

Symptoms of gynaecological cancers vary, depending on the type of cancer. A broad spectrum of gynaecological cancer symptoms may include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding

• Pelvic pain

• Vaginal bleeding during or after sexual intercourse

• Persistent abdominal swelling or bloating

• Unintended weight gain

or loss

• Persistent bowel changes, like diarrhoea or constipation  These are common symptoms of gynaecological cancers, but there are more symptoms that relate specifically to each type. If you have persistent symptoms for longer than two weeks, then you should talk to your GP.

The Irish Network for Gynaecological Oncology (INGO), a voluntary coordination body consisting of 30 of Ireland’s foremost gynaecological cancer campaigners, researchers and patient

advocates aim to educate people about the importance of sharing information in relation to prevention, symptoms, early diagnosis and treatment.

Research commissioned by INGO shows that stigma surrounding gynaecological cancers and their symptoms can prevent some women from attending their doctor with warning signs.

Dr Úna Kennedy, GP advisor to the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP), said: “The CervicalCheck screening programme tests for certain types of

human papillomavirus (HPV) that cause 9 in 10 cervical cancers, and provides for further tests and treatment, if needed. Cervical screening is not a test for cancer, it’s a test to see if you are at risk of developing cervical cancer.

“While it is incredibly important that women choose to go for cervical screening when they are invited, it is also essential that they never ignore symptoms. Even if you have had a normal screening test result, it’s important to be aware of all five gynaecological cancers, and their symptoms.”

Class day for Pres’ ladies as they celebrate 59th reunion

For those of a certain age, The School Around the Corner aired on radio and later RTÉ television will evoke many happy memories.

After a run of eight years on Radio Éireann, The School Around the Corner was moved to television in 1962.

Again, hosted by Paddy Crosby, it ran for four years. It was the most popular programme of Teilifís Éireann in the early 1960s. Popular, because it created an atmosphere of happiness. And that was the atmosphere that was in Harry’s Bar at Langton’s recently, when the former students of the Presentation Convent gathered for a class reunion.

And this was a special reunion. The ladies present had completed their Intermediate Certificate in 1965 and their Leaving Certificate in 1967. And you don’t have to be an Archimedes type to work out that fifty nine years have elapsed since these Pres’ girls sat their Inter’.

Over thirty of the ladies gathered at Langton’s, with some travelling from America, Canada, England as well as various parts of Ireland.

Speaking to The Kilkenny Observer, Nuala Culleton paid a special word of thanks to all who travelled for the occasion and also paid tribute to The Presentation Sisters who contributed so greatly to education in Kilkenny.

Former Mayor of Kilkenny Betty Manning- Nee Burke, told the paper that she wanted to thank Langton’s for the wonderful service on the day and said a special word of appreciation to Breda Farrell for her help.

Lilian MacDonald remembered former classmates who had gone to their eternal reward.

A great day was had by all. Here’s to the 60th!

1. Kathleen Farrell and Patsy Imm

2. Joan Delaney, Teresa Dowling and Breda McDonald

3. Margaret Stubbs, Nuala Dowling and Bernie Hickey

4. Happy days for former Presentation convent reunion. Front: Maura Kenneally and Breda Beirne. Back: Ann Morrissey and Brid Myers

5. Front: Nuala Culleton and Betty Manning. Back: Mary Jo Joyce and Lilian Moran

6. Front: Sheila Jarratt and Mary Brannigan. Back: Patsy Walsh and Ann Morrissey

7. Front: Ann McEvoy and Maura Townsend. Back: Maura Murphy and Teresa Trait

8. Eileen Cantwell, Mary Rose Fitzpatrick and Mildred Ryan

9. Front: Ann McEvoy and Breda Beirne. Back: Maura Townsend and Teresa Dowling reminiscing about days gone by

10. Helen Byrne and Carmel Rothwell share a joke at the Presentation class reunion

Photos: jbs photos kilkenny

Attending Langton’s Hotel on John street, were ladies who had completed their Intermediate Certificate in 1965 and their Leaving Certificate in 1967 at the Presentation Secondary School, Kilkenny

Opinion

Ireland second-best for work-life balance! Your Money & You

Ireland has been ranked the second-best country in the world for life-work balance in a recent study by Remote, a global employment expert, and is seen as a major success story. This notable jump from 21st place in 2023 to 2nd place in 2024 places Ireland ahead of every other European country, with New Zealand keeping the top spot globally.

The study is based on a range of factors, including minimum wage, statutory sick pay, maternity leave, employee safety, and public happiness.

The United Kingdom, on the other hand, has seen a decline in its life-work balance ranking, falling from 8th to 15th place. The drop is attributed to an increase in average working hours and a decline in public happiness, leaving it 13 places behind Ireland. This gap highlights Ireland’s growing strength in ensuring better working conditions and personal well-

being for its workforce.

John Ellis

The significant rise in Ireland’s ranking is due to the introduction of statutory sick pay, a key factor that has pushed the country ahead of many of its European peers. Ireland’s overall score is 77.89 out of 100 with New Zealand scoring 80.76.

According to Barbara Matthews, Chief People Officer at Remote, the focus should be on creating environments that support both personal and professional success. She praised Ireland for embracing a progressive approach to life-work balance and prioritising employee well-being, which has made a measurable impact.

European countries overall continue to perform well in the rankings, with seven of the Top 10 spots going to nations on the continent. Belgium, Denmark, and Germany have also shown strong performances, with Belgium and Denmark tied for 3rd place. These coun-

tries all offer high wages, substantial leave entitlements, and strong safety measures, making them attractive places to live and work.

The study also draws attention to the United States, which ranked 55th out of 60, making it one of the lowestscoring countries for lifework balance. This marks

a two-place drop from last year, driven by an increase in average working hours and a low safety score. The findings suggest that while many European nations are making strides in improving work-life balance, countries like the United States are struggling to keep up.

For Ireland, the jump in the rankings is a positive

sign of progress, it also signals that the country’s focus on worker rights, safety, and support systems is beginning to bear fruit.

Matthews notes that, while countries like Ireland and New Zealand are leading the way, many nations still have a long road ahead to create balanced, sustainable working environments.

In the broader context of global employment, the demand for better life-work balance is becoming a crucial factor in attracting and keeping talent. With increased awareness of burnout, stress, and mental health, people are looking for more than just high salaries. They want the flexibility to enjoy life outside of work, and countries like Ireland are showing that it is possible to strike that balance. However, as Matthews points out, there is still more to be done to ensure that every nation can offer its citizens the opportunity to thrive both personally and professionally. As the global competition for talent grows, countries that prioritise life-work balance will continue to stand out, and Ireland’s rise in the ranks proves it is becoming a leader in this crucial area.

john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

It has long been a contention – and an ongoing debate in Ireland – that spending a lot of time with digital technology correlates with poorer mental health in teens. Now, it turns out, so does spending too little.

These findings led psychologists Andrew Przybylski and Netta Weinstein to propose the ‘Digital Goldilocks’. Psychologist Pete Etchells recommends parents think in terms of “screen habits” and not “screen time” to better navigate the challenge of raising a teen in the digital age. Turns out, getting your child a smartphone — or any digital technology — isn’t the end of a difficult decision. It’s the prologue to the many difficult decisions to come.

On the one hand, teenagers need to engage with their peers during these years of social development, and digital technologies have become an inseparable part of building and maintaining those relationships. Teens chat with their friends over text, play games online, and build entire communities of like-minded people on social media. Not letting your child connect through these platforms is potentially shutting them off from the shared cultural experiences that strengthen social bonds.

On the other hand, parents must care for their children’s health — physical and emotional — and many worry that digital technologies are harmful on both fronts. Not only do these technologies compete for our limited attention and make our lives more stationary, but they are also gateways to vast amounts of misinformation, disturbing content, abusive drive-by encounters, and harmful social comparisons. The teenage mind is not equipped to handle all that cultural sewage. (I mean, it’s not like the adult mind handles it all that well either).

So, what are parents to do? A potential answer comes from the work of Andrew Przybylski and Netta Weinstein, psychologists at the Oxford Internet Institute. In 2017, they published the results of a large-scale, preregistered study in which they reviewed data on the tech habits of 120,000 adolescents. They found that heavy, daily technology use was correlated with poorer mental well-being in teens.

More surprising was the correlation for teens who spent little to no time with digital technology. Like their tech-heavy peers, they also reported worse mental health scores than those who spent a few hours surfing the internet, texting their friends, or playing video games.

Since then, other researchers have replicated Przybylski and Weinstein’s findings.

The ‘Digital Goldilocks’ hypothesis argues that a certain amount of digital technology use isn’t intrinsically harmful to teens and may even be advantageous. As the name

Kids on screens: a guide to help concerned parents

suggests, that amount is not too much, not too little. While the study didn’t reveal a one-size-fits-all prescription, other research has suggested ways to help families craft their Goldilocks zone around digital technology. The internet can be a scary place. We’ve all taken that

blind turn online and come face-to-face with something we’d rather forget — to say nothing of making our children deal with it. Unless you’re some digital dictator who can build a personal ‘Great Firewall’, this reality means letting your child go online entails risks. The ideas, images, and opinions

they encounter will affect their mental health.

“It would be really weird if it didn’t,” Pete Etchells, a psychologist at Bath Spa University, told Freethink in an interview.

“That’s also different to saying that social media or smartphones or whatever are the predominant drivers of

other cases, those same technologies may offer a mental balm. The reason for these divergent outcomes, as with most things related to mental health, is a complex interplay of personalities, environment, social support systems, life experiences, and good old-fashioned luck. The challenge for parents is working with their teens to determine what they require to thrive and how to set healthy boundaries around technology to promote those needs. But parents can’t meet that challenge if they approach the online world like a dark wood in a fairy tale, one full of unspeakable horrors where children dare not tread.

A better approach, Etchells says, is to consider the ‘ecosystem of factors’. Ask yourself: What factors do you think your child will be most vulnerable to? How do you help them avoid those or offer support should they encounter them? What factors will enliven your child emotionally, socially, and intellectually? How do you create the conditions to help them find and enjoy those?

Think “screen habits,” not “screen time”

If the Goldilocks hypothesis is true, then you’d think a simple solution would be to set a daily timer. Let’s say an hour on school days and — what the heck — three on the weekends. Problem solved, right? If only. This “screen time” approach may have worked for your mom and dad when it came to getting you outside and away from your PlayStation. However, the days when screens are used primarily for passive or non- social activities are long gone. Today’s teens use screens to do homework, read books, socialize with friends, video chat with out-of- state grandparents, and many other mentally and socially stimulating pursuits. Sometimes, they even watch TV on them.

“How much we use [screens] isn’t as helpful as considering both the content we consume and the context in which they play a part in our lives,” Etchells writes in his book Unlocked: The Real Science of Screen Time (and how to spend it better). Instead of thinking in terms of screen time, he recommends approaching conversations with your teen with a mind toward “screen habits”.

poor mental health [among teens].” Etchells points out that digital technologies do have the potential to amplify teens’ mental health problems in some cases — the news media and your social media feed are right about that. However, such coverage is often one-sided. In

Consider all the ways your teen uses their digital technologies. Where are they using their screens and when? Is the screen use intentionally geared toward enriching pursuits, such as learning, connecting with friends, or engaging in a hobby? Or are they scrolling through YouTube recommendations and social media feeds in mindless, disconnected ways?

“In answering those questions we’ll be able to better understand where we’re getting benefits, and where there are things that we would like to change,” he writes.

PHOTO: Annie Spratt / Unsplash

Paris, France’s capital and one of Europe’s prime tourist destinations, is famous for its beautiful architecture, including the iconic Eiffel Tower, high-class fashion, rich culture, and delicious food. However, Paris city breaks are hardly renowned for being budget-friendly.

Accommodation in popular areas can be extremely expensive, especially during holiday seasons or during Paris Fashion Week.

Therefore, if you’re a budget traveller, you’ll be better off visiting somewhere as beautiful as Paris but more affordable. To learn more, here is the first part of 12 cities that are just as beautiful as Paris but way cheaper. These places are more budget-friendly in terms of factors like accommodation and food.

1.Valencia, Spain

Valencia [pictured], on Spain’s eastern coast, is one of the country’s oldest cities, with a history that dates back more than 2,100 years. As such, it’s home to some of Spain’s most exciting and unique architecture, including Valencia Cathedral from the 13th century and Serranos Towers from the 14th century.

Another major point of interest in the city is the River Park. Home to Turia Gardens, this park stretches nine kilometres through the city’s centre.

Regarding affordability, accommodation, attractions, food, and transportation are cheaper in Valencia than in Paris. For example, you can book stunning hotels in Valencia for as little as €60 a night.

2. Montpellier, France

Montpellier is another French city you can explore and spend less than you would in Paris. Often referred to as the gateway to France’s

12 cities as beautiful as Paris but costing less

Travel & Leisure

southern coast and the Mediterranean, Montpellier is a gorgeous city filled with ancient buildings, natural spaces, and picturesque neighbourhoods. As you stroll through the city, you’ll step back through 1,000 years of history.

To ensure you feel those dreamy Parisian vibes in Montpellier, the city is even home to its own Arc de Triomphe. Montpellier Cathedral and Place de la Comédie are two other historical landmarks you don’t want to miss. Montpellier is more expensive than, say, Nancy, but you can still find accommodation and cheap eats in the city for a fraction of the price of central city hotels and restaurants in Paris.

3. Krakow, Poland With hotel prices as

low as $60 per night for stunning hotels in Krakow’s magnificent Old Town and low day-to-day costs for travellers, especially compared to Paris, Krakow is a top choice for budget backpackers. The Historic Centre of Kraków is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, so you can rest assured you’ll find an array of impressive historic sights. Situated at the foot of Royal Wawel Castle, this 13th-century merchant town has Europe’s largest market square, a Gothic cathedral, historical houses, pristine temples, and magnificent churches. The addition of the city’s medieval Kazimierz site and 14th-century fortifications only enhance the city’s appeal.

4. Trieste, Italy

Trieste is a vibrant port city

Italy’s

Often called ‘Venice’s Little Sister’ because of its charming canals and classic architecture, this city is an excellent place to visit if you’re looking for affordable accommodation, high-quality yet cheap food, and access to a wide range of attractions.

Tourists can comfortably enjoy a holiday in Trieste for as little as €90 a day. With this budget, you’ll find beautiful accommodation in a central location that allows you to easily explore Trieste’s picturesque waterfront promenades, jaw- dropping architecture, and fascinating castles. Don’t miss Castello di San Giusto, Cattedrale di San Giusto Martire, and Unity of Italy Square.

5. Athens, Greece

Athens is easily one of the

most influential cities in the world, never mind Europe. Famous for its political innovations, historical figures, and breathtaking art and culture, it’s no surprise millions of tourists flock to the city yearly. Add to that hot weather and long sandy beaches, and you’re in for a real treat.

Some of the best sights to see in Athens include the world-famous Acropolis of Athens, where you’ll find the Parthenon, the Plaka neighbourhood, and Monastiraki Square. Beachgoers will enjoy visiting Kalamaki Beach and Voula Beach.

Aside from its apparent beauty, Athens is also known for its affordability. In the city, you’ll quickly find affordable accommodation and cheap eats that cost a fraction of Paris prices.

architecture, a medieval

stately bridges, and narrow cobblestone streets lined with small cafes, houses, and authentic Portuguese stores. In Porto, you can spend your days eating good food, drinking even better wine, and exploring the most popular attractions.

We recommend spending a lot of time walking around the medieval Ribeira district. This riverside district is home to some of the best architecture and views in the city. Don’t miss São Francisco Church, the 19th-century Palácio de Bolsa, or Luís I Bridge, either! Budget backpackers can find excellent private rooms in the city for just €60 and cheap eats for as little as €6.

Continues next week

The Top 10 hotels in the world are not cheap

The World’s 50 Best just released its ranking of the 50 best hotels for 2024, and the list is full of places that are perfect fodder for travel inspiration. The Top 10 hotels featured in the 2024 list are destinations across nearly every continent, offering luxuries for every type of traveler and imaginer.

This list is not like other top hotel lists — it is the result of a lengthy and complicated voting process that means the selected hotels have earned unique distinction. Here’s how the selection process works: Each year, a panel of nine Academy Chairs from the organisation chooses a voting panel of travel journalists, experienced luxury travellers, and hoteliers.

This year, the best hotel in the world is Capella Bangkok in Thailand. The hotel has just 101 rooms, and rates start at around €600 per night. World’s Best calls it a “masterclass in serenity and calm”. The property features high-end dining, villas and suites, and a staff of local experts to help curate a “bespoke” Bangkok experience.

“This extraordinary hotel is a rare oasis in the middle of Thailand’s bustling capital, offering world-class service while retaining the intimacy and personality of a boutique hotel— making it a worthy winner of the top prize,” Emma Sleight, Head of Content for The World’s 50 Best Hotels, said. “This year’s dynamic list underscores the appetite for a range of

experiences, from busy city breaks to far-flung escapes, and honors the dedication and passion of the staff who make these exceptional experiences possible, while highlighting the remarkable breadth of talent in the industry worldwide.”

Following behind Capella is Passalacqua, a 24-room hotel on Lake Como in Italy. The price for this hotel is significantly steeper than Capella’s, with rooms starting at €1,300 a night. It’s obvious why this 18thcentury villa that formerly housed Pope Innocent XI is in the Top 10 and was last year’s best hotel in the world. Every element of the hotel has a careful designer touch, and it looks out onto one of the most Pinterested views in the world.

Here are the Top 10 hotels in the world for 2024:

1. Capella Bangkok Bangkok, Thailand

2. Passalacqua Lake Como, Italy

3. Rosewood Hong Kong Hong Kong

4. Cheval Blanc Paris, France

5. The Upper House Hong Kong

6. Raffles Singapore Singapore

7. Aman Tokyo Tokyo, Japan

8. Soneva Fushi Maldives

9. Atlantis The Royal Dubai, UAE

10. Nihi Sumba Sumba Island, Indonesia

in

Friuli Venezia Giulia region.

6. Porto, Portugal Porto is a mind-blowingly beautiful coastal city in Northwest Portugal. It has vibrant

district,

PHOTO: Northleg Official / Unisplash

PHOTO: Nik Lanus / Unsplash

Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Back to black Matthias, Kai and Tómas

I am walking up High St. when I see him coming towards me. I don’t know who he is but I know what he is. He is wearing a three-piece black corduroy suit, white shirt and tie, and he is carrying a rucksack and a large stick not at all unlike a good old Irish shillelagh. I stop him. “Excuse me,” say’ “but are you a Zimmerman?”

“I am that,” he replies in a slight foreign accent and surprised that I know what he is. “How you know this?” he asks.

“Because I met three Zimmermen here in Kilkenny almost 10 years ago.”

“Where you meet them?”

“In a pub just down the street.” He laughs. Under normal circumstances I would have bought him a coffee, a meal even, but I was late for an appointment. I wished him well on his travels as part of his

apprenticeship to carpentry.

“And how you know this?” he asks. I explain. And here’s how I first met the Zimmermen and an insight into who, and what, they are.

Over the years I have brought the odd person back to our home from the pub. Recently I brought home, not one, not two, but three men I had never met in my life, three strange men in rather strange dress. I met them in my local around 10.30 pm. They were dressed identically, in threepiece black corduroy suits with white shirts and ties. On the table, beside their drinks, were three black bowler-type hats while at their feet was a collection of knapsacks and three large unusual looking walking sticks. I assumed they were Morris dancers. They were not – they were Zimmermen, three travelling apprentice carpenters from Germany. They explain that

Zimmerman comes from the German zimber for room and that they are apprentice carpenters.

Over a few drinks, Matthias, 24, Kai, 23 and Tómas 25, explain how travelling for three years is part of their apprenticeship; they seek out work in various towns and are paid in cash or in kind. Tómas shows me his travel book in which I read the following: “The possessor of this travelbook is on his traditional walk in order to get acquainted with the practices of work and way of living in other countries and thus improve his knowledge about his profession and extend his experience of life. The companion is bound to behave at all places in an honest and respectable manner.”

The Zimmermen hitch from town to town and came to Ireland because of its friendliness.

Curious about their outfits, they explain that they wear corduroy because it’s easily

“Because I met three Zimmermen here in Kilkenny almost 10 years ago...

cleaned, their trousers are flared to avoid dust getting into their shoes, their waistcoats have four buttons on each side, representing the eight hours a day that they work while their jackets have three buttons on each sleeve, symbols of their six-day week. The walking sticks they cut themselves in the wood and carve with their own personal design; the sticks are used to help carry their knapsacks and to fend off unruly canines.

Matthias tells me that there are five stipulations for becoming a Zimmerman: You must be under 30, must not be married, must have a clean police record, have your diploma in woodwork and you must have no debts.

Regarding money, the Zimmermen fund their travels by saving hard prior to travelling while on the day of their departure, they walk the length

of their village as people tuck money into their pockets. They then pool their resources which they share equally among themselves.

I am hugely impressed by these young men’s work ethic and their trusting outlook on life. When I enquire where they are staying I am astounded to discover that they have not arranged any accommodation! When I express my concern, Matthias casually remarks that they will find a “not so windy shed”. That’s when the ‘good Samaritan’ breaks out in me and I offer them a bed which they gladly accept. Then I text my wife: “Don’t be shocked but you may find three young men all dressed in black at the breakfast table. Good guys, honest, respectable, they’re called ‘Zimmermen’ and may even fix those chutes I keep meaning to get round to.”

Premiere of Teddy by Wexford playwright Sheila Forsey at Eugene O’Neill International Festival of Theatre

The Eugene O’Neill International Festival of Theatre is delighted to announce the world premiere of Teddy, an original play by Wexford playwright and Irish Times best-selling author, Sheila Forsey. This red carpet premiere, set for Friday, 11th October 2024, at St Michael’s Theatre in New Ross, is poised to be a major highlight of the festival, showcasing the extraordinary talent emerging from our local artistic community. Sheila Forsey is making history as the first female playwright featured in the

Eugene O’Neill Festival in New Ross following in the footsteps of acclaimed playwrights such as Eoin Colfer and Billy Roche. She shares her journey in bringing Teddy to life:

“I’m delighted to say that my first full-length play is heading to the stage as part of the International Eugene O'Neill Festival in St. Michael’s Theatre in New Ross,” said Sheila. Many theatre goers in Kilkenny will remember Sheila during her time working in Kilkenny where she performed with Watergate Productions. Teddy is set on a farm in Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford,

during the 1980s Christmas season. The play follows the poignant and powerful story of Rose, who returns to her childhood home for Christmas with the life-changing news that she intends to take her developmentally challenged adult son, Teddy, to live with her. As the traditional Irish Christmas carol ‘Wexford Carol’ echoes throughout the play, old tensions between Rose and her mother are reignited, leading to a dramatic confrontation over what is truly best for Teddy and who is fit to be his mother. The play delves deep into themes of family, responsibility, and love, with a heart-wrenching narrative that will resonate with audiences on both sides of the Atlantic.

Reflecting on the play's development, Sheila said “The play began with the Wexford Playwrights Studio and had a professional recorded reading under the direction of Ben Barnes, funded by Wexford Arts Council, The Arts Council, and Wexford Arts Centre. There were many fantastic mentors as part of this process, including our very own Billy Roche, who was truly inspirational as a mentor.” She added “But now

a new chapter for the play is in progress. After many drafts with the wonderful guidance of its director, the play will finally premiere on October 11th under the direction of Eric Fraisher Hayes, Artistic Director of the Eugene O'Neill Foundation, Tao House, California.”

Adding to the unique appeal of this premiere is its cast, which features a blend of Irish and American

actors, reflecting the festival’s theme of ‘Two Countries, One Family’. Directed by US Director Eric Fraisher Hayes, the cast includes local actors Margaret Rossiter as Lily, Sean O'Brien as Bobby and Kevin Phelen as Teddy, well-known award winning Co Wexford actor Andy Doyle as Jim and Californian actress Isabel Siragusa as Rose.

Sheila Forsey, already well-known for her bestselling historical fiction, brings her nuanced understanding of character and emotion to her work.

Her three historical fiction novels, set in 20th-century Ireland, explore the themes of emigration to America and the repercussions of separation—a longing for home, but always with an eye on distant places.

Her writing has received numerous acclaimed reviews for providing a visual and textured insight into Ireland’s past. In addition to her work as an author, Sheila is also a playwright and a tutor in creative writing. She was a finalist in the Scripts Ireland Playwriting Festival 2021 for her play The Memory Room.

Eugene O’Neill Festival Chair, Sean Reidy, reflects "This premiere is not just the debut of a new play; it’s a celebration of Wexford's

artistic talent and a powerful testament to the deep cultural connections between Ireland and the United States. The Eugene O'Neill Festival has always been about bridging cultures through theatre, and this event embodies that mission beautifully. We invite you to join us for this extraordinary occasion as we honour the creative spirit of our community and experience the world premiere of ‘Teddy’."

Event Details: Friday, 11th October 2024 8:00 PM

St Michael’s Theatre, New Ross, Co. Wexford, Ireland

For more information about the festival and to book your tickets, please visit https:// eugeneoneillfestival.com/ or contact Sean Reidy 087 271 3776.

About the Eugene O’Neill International Festival of Theatre: The Eugene O’Neill International Festival of Theatre in New Ross is a cultural and civic celebration of the strong ties between Ireland and the United States, exemplified by Eugene O’Neill’s Irish heritage. The festival promotes the art of theatre in New Ross and County Wexford, showcasing both established and emerging talents in the theatrical world.

Author of ‘Teddy’, Sheila Forsey

Californian actress Isabel Siragusa who plays Rose in Teddy

Sean O'Brien who appears in the role of Bobby

Discovering a story of personal and collective significance The Last Word Pat Coughlan

On a recent visit to Salamanca I discovered ‘Remember You Are A Wiley’ by Maya Wiley [pictured] among the few books in the shop in English. I suppose I should not be surprised as Salamanca is a university city. The title intrigued me, and the cover promised a story of personal and collective significance. Flipping through the pages, I felt its urgency and relevance, especially given the current social and political upheavals in the US. The book was more than just a memoir; it is a call to remember one’s roots and resilience in adversity. I left with a copy, eager to see how Wiley’s narrative might resonate with the world around me.

Maya Wiley’s was born to civil rights activists. Her father, George Wiley, significantly influenced her writing. Growing up, she witnessed the challenges and victories of advocating for justice. Her career in law, academia, and public

service reflects her commitment.

As a civil rights lawyer and former counsel to the Mayor of New York City, she fought significant battles. These experiences enrich her book, making her perspective vital in today’s United States. She writes: “The legacy of activism is not just in grand gestures but in everyday acts of courage and conviction.”

One striking event is her father’s relentless civil rights fight, passing down a legacy of resilience crucial in today’s social climate of racial injustice and inequality. As Wiley reflects: “My father’s unwavering commitment to justice was like an unbreakable thread, binding our family together through any storm.”

Identity is also central to Wiley’s journey of self-discovery, deeply intertwined with her heritage and the broader African American experience. Her narrative underscores the importance of knowing one’s roots,

prompting reflection on how our past shapes our present and future.

Reading ‘Remember You Are A Wiley”’was an emotional journey. Maya Wiley’s depiction of her father’s dedication to the civil rights movement profoundly touched me, evoking memories of my own father’s steadfast beliefs. Wiley writes: “My father’s unwavering commitment to justice was the heartbeat of our home; it shaped my very being and purpose.”

Wiley’s recounting of her identity struggles mirrored my own experiences in Dublin, leading to confusion about my beliefs. Her expressions of confusion, acceptance, and eventual pride were heart-wrenching and uplifting. She says: “Navigating the spaces between identities is like walking a tightrope.

“True resilience is the courage to rebuild and transform.”

The book’s themes echo

today’s socio-political climate. Struggles for racial justice, the rise of Black Lives Matter, and political divisions reflect Wiley’s battles. Her father’s civil rights activism parallels recent global protests for systemic change. Wiley’s recounts of her father’s 1960s marches reflect ongoing protests demanding justice. Wiley writes: “His determination to walk those dangerous marches never wavered, even in the face of violent opposition.”

Maya Wiley’s narrative, rich in personal and collective history, reflects resilience and identity. Her story calls for present action and is not just about past struggles. In a world filled with social and political upheavals, Wiley’s insights provide a guide for navigating these waters. Her emphasis on remembering one’s roots and drawing strength from them is crucial today. As Wiley states: “In drawing strength from our history, we shape our future.”

Fresh on the heels of a OneAct Season at Visual, Carlow on 2nd and 3rd October 2024, and ahead of a major fulllength production of Da at the same Venue less than two weeks later, Carlow Little Theatre Society presents two new One-Act plays by acclaimed Carlow author and playwright, Barry McKinley. His plays 3 KINGS, and WATERMARK will be performed at The Home Rule Club (Barnstorm Theatre Studio), Kilkenny, at 8pm, on Saturday 5th October 2024.

Tickets are €15 and can be purchased via eventbrite or the adjacent link: https:// shorturl.at/7XwSV

3 Kings is set against the backdrop of a wintry Montana. Three convicts plan to break out of a penitentiary by scaling a Christmas tree and jumping the prison wall. Things don’t go according to plan during the breakout.

The men realise that everything has changed and their ‘heroic’ escape on Christmas Eve has turned into a murder ballad. Only two men will survive in this frozen backcountry. But which two?

3 Kings keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, shifting seamlessly between laughter and heartfelt drama as the escaped convicts try to affect their escape and navigate the difficulties of life on the run.

The cast features: Jamie Dockery as Mover, Paul Dunne as J.I, Paul McManus as Big Boy and Paddy O'Byrne as the Guard. Directed by Deirdre Fleming. Running time: Approximately 35 minutes. Also on the bill for the evening is Watermark, which follows the journey of Maura, an enigmatic Irishwoman who arrives in London during the 1950s. Confronted with a dire illness, Maura resolves to live each day as if it were her last. Her quest leads her into the shadowy corners of West London's demi-monde, where she encounters a peculiar celebrity known only as the Old Beast. This man, marked by his serpentheaded walking cane and his unsettling fondness for silkworms, offers to grant Maura's wish—but with a chilling condition. "I want to hold something young and watch it die," he tells her. "I want to squeeze the spark until it becomes a cinder."

At the heart of the story is Maura's response to this dark request. And lest you think her words are those of an old woman dreaming, Maura has something to show you— something that still carries the aroma of a bygone era and proof that the devil can be beaten at his own game. Featuring Deirdre Fleming as Maura.

Directed by Barry McKinley. Running time: Approximately 15 minutes.

Carlow Little Theatre perform at the Home Rule club, Kilkenny

published in 2017 by Old

Publishing

A Ton of

is a chronicle of chaos from the late 1970's when McKinley, a young punk at the time, worked for

British Nuclear Fuels Ltd. He is currently working on two new novels: Rainy Town and Manhattan Lovers.

CLTS performing on the 2024 All-Ireland, One Act Festival circuit

Less than a week later, Carlow Little Theatre begin their All-Ireland, One Act Festival circuit run with '3 Kings', a new play written by acclaimed Carlow author and playwright, Barry McKinley, which will be directed by Deirdre Fleming. The play will embark on what the society hopes will be a successful festival circuit run at 5 festivals, and eventual qualification for the finals in Naas in early December.

The five festivals are: Goresbridge, KilkennyFriday, 25th October Bangor, Down - Saturday, 26th October

Tallaght, Dublin - Friday, 1st November

Carrigallen, LeitrimSunday, 17th November

Tubbercurry, SligoSaturday 23rd November

The society returns to George Bernard Shaw theatre later with Hugh Leonard’s, hilarious, Tony-award winning memory play, Da. Da explores the relationship of Charlie, a successful playwright, with his adoptive father. In this semiautobiographical play set in 1960s Dublin, we find Charlie in his childhood home just after Da’s funeral. While he sorts through his father’s things, he is visited by Da’s ghost, who stubbornly refuses to leave the house or his son’s mind. As Charlie revisits his past, we get to share in the tender, frustrating and very funny moments that defined the complex relationship between father and son. Winner of the 1978 Tony Award for Best Play, New York Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Play, the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding New Play, and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Play. This will be the second time the society has produced ‘Da’, having also done so in 1996, when it performed at the now defunct Bridewell Lane Theatre. Audiences may remember John Brady giving a memorable performance in the titular role, with Paddy Behan playing the role of Charlie. This time, Paddy will be in the director’s chair, with Rory Moran playing the role of Da, Garry McHugh as Charlie, the return of multiaward winning, legendary Little Theatre actress Jo O’Donovan to our stage in the role of Mother, joined by a talented cast of Scott Cooper, Evan McCormack, Paddy O’Byrne, Pauline Hayes and Zoë Hayden.

Barry McKinley

Barry McKinley has spent a large chunk of his life travelling and working in

different parts of the globe; London, Paris, Sydney and Los Angeles; he spent a dozen years in New York City before returning to Ireland with his wife and twin sons

in 2006. His plays have been performed in the US, UK, and Continental Europe. He has written for the BBC and RTÉ and was nominated for Best New Play at the Irish

Theatre Awards (Elysium Nevada) in 2010. His stories were twice shortlisted for the Hennessy Literary Award and his novel, A Ton of Malice, was

Street

(UK).

Malice

Set design is by Tadgh McSweeney, with lighting by Ann Nolan. Da is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd.

The Hugh Leonard play Da coming to The George Bernard Shaw theatre in Carlow

3 Kings will be performed at The Home Rule Club (Barnstorm Theatre Studio)

Featuring Deirdre Fleming as Maura, Watermark follows the journey of Maura, an enigmatic Irishwoman who arrives in London during the 1950s

Paddy Behan, who will direct Da for Carlow Little Theatre Society pictured in the role of the Bull McCabe with Watergate Productions (Photo Ken McGuire)

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

A little piece of Heave fell from out the sky one day… so went the old song that warmed many an Irish heart. A sizable chunk of that piece must have fallen in the part of our county now occupied by the village of Windgap and its bucolic hinterland.

It has some of the loveliest loop-walks to be found in Ireland, or anywhere else. Haunting relics of the past confront you at every turn…a well that served the community before taps were heard of in those parts, an old forge, specially commissioned statues symbolizing or recalling aspects of local heritage, and, even if you haven’t a religious bone in your body, you’ll be riveted by the spectacle of a grotto considered to be the largest of its kind in Europe.

There’s a lot of what used to be in Windgap that you won’t find there. You’ll have to visit the National Museum to view the array of priceless artifacts unearthed in the district over the decades and thankfully now preserved for all to see.

On Saturday, I accom-

Windgap… A little piece of heaven

panied the Kilkenny Heritage Walkers on a journey into Windgap’s past, one that is steeped in all the dizzying twists and

millennia.

Guide for the day was local man Noel Ryan, who has an encyclopedic knowledge of his native area

Though I’d been on other walks this one had a kind of “lost in time” feel to it, thanks to the impeccable and heart-felt attention that locals have given to conserving their culture and

At the starting point of the walk, just a few yards from Windgap’s renowned Community Centre, we could look across the road at the old schoolhouse, still standing mutely, empty now of pupils or teachers; all its windows replaced by artwork displaying the cultural highlights of the area. We were guided to the League House, one of the finest buildings of its kind in Ireland; a potent monument to the Land War, the titanic 19th centu-

ry struggle of tenants against the tyranny of landlordism. The impetus for its con-

struction was the shocking eviction of the Brophy family from their lands. A local

curate, Fr James Brennan, rallied the people in support of the Brophys and the result was the League House, built in just five days by thirty-seven masons, a little miracle in itself. The Brophys remained in the dwelling until their triumphal return to the paternal family residence in 1890.

Entering a dense forest humming with birdsong we descended a stone stairway. This led to a little plaque denoting Feehan’s well, named in honour of Patrick and James Feehan who occupied a little roadside cabin beside the League House.

The well played a pivotal, life-enhancing role in the life of the community. A laneway extended from the Feehans’ humble abode to the well and up that hilly path the village folk daily dragged their buckets of water, a tradition that persisted until the arrival of the Village Pump, a day of great liberation and celebration for Windgap that ended the toil and drudgery of the “bucket traffic.”

Not quite for everyone though…The well continued to serve the old schoolhouse and the teacher’s residence, and teachers gleefully sent pupils to fetch water in buckets to keep the school supplied…from 1848 all the way up to 1964. To be continued…

A statue recalling the people who carried buckets of water from Feehans well to the village

The Old League House

Windgap provides a portal into Irelands past

Noel Ryan with the Heritage Walkers in Windgap

Welcome

to Prague House Care Company Comfort, and Community in the Heart of Freshford

Located in the beautiful village of Freshford, Kilkenny, in Ireland’s sunny southeast, Prague House Care Home provides a peaceful, caring environment surrounded by lush countryside. Our commitment is to offer a home away from home, where residents can enjoy their independence, receive personalized support, and live fulfilling lives.

At Prague House, the wellbeing of our residents is our highest priority. We are a careled environment with weekly nursing oversight to ensure all residents’ health needs are met. In addition, we maintain strong external links multidisciplinary teams as required.

Our Services Include:

• Capacity for 15 Residents: Offering low-support care for individuals aged 60+ with minimal care needs.

• Long-Term, Convalescence, and Respite Care: Full care services at a nominal fee, including bed, board, and laundry.

• Comprehensive Medication Management: Safe and accurate medication administration for all residents.

• Assistance with Medical Appointments: We help arrange and accompany residents to medical

appointments to ensure continuity of care.

• Links to Healthcare Professionals by Referral:

° Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy (OT) support for mobility and rehabilitation.

° Advocacy Services to assist residents in making informed healthcare decisions.

° Public Health Nurse involvement to oversee residents' overall health and ensure proper care plans are in place.

° Mental Health Services accessible through external links, providing additional emotional and psychological support when needed.

Activities & Amenities

We believe that staying active and engaged is key to living well. Our 7-day activities programme offers a variety of options, all at no additional cost:

• Regular outings and day trips

• Beautiful enclosed garden for

peaceful relaxation

• Hairdressing services

• Religious services, including Mass, Communion, and Rosary

• Bingo, music, art &crafts, quizzes, cookery, and more

• Hand massages and wellbeing activities

• Media access, including telephone, Nintendo Wii, smart tablets, and internet

• Community Programmes.

Why Prague House?

• Personalised Care in a small, welcoming community

• Nursing oversight with external links to healthcare professionals

• Comprehensive activities and services to support an independent and fulfilling life

At Prague House, we believe that care goes beyond meeting daily needs—it’s about creating a space where residents can thrive and live their best lives. For more information or to arrange a visit, please contact us at 056-8832281 or praguehousefreshford@ gmail.com

Kilkenny Men’s

Shed, Ireland's

longest established Men’s Shed

“I love helping in the timber shed, we make bird boxes. I help to paint them and find it all very interesting”…….

“there’s no clocking in and out, it’s a lovely place to spend time, chat and tell stories!”…… “it gets me out of the house for a few hours.

I don’t feel the time pass-

ing”…… “we always have a laugh here in the shed”. Just some of the positive things the members of Kilkenny Men’s Shed have said about their time in the shed.

We aim to provide a relaxed space where men can come together and work on differ-

ent projects. Over the years we have upcycled 1000’s of bicycles as well as completing many woodwork projects ie. benches, planters, tables, signs etc.

We also have several day trips throughout the year where members pick the destination. These trips have been much enjoyed by the members.

Members in the shed range in age from 20’s to 80 yrs young!

We believe that all men have skills which they can pass on to other members. The shed is a relaxed and friendly space where members can learn these new skills.

We are centrally located (R95 DW32) in Kilkenny City and are open every Tuesday afternoon. Sometimes we will be open other days depending on the tasks at hand. If you have a few hours to spare why not call up?... perhaps you are retired or working shifts/part time or maybe even between jobs. Whatever the case may be a few hours spent helping out will not only benefit the shed and the wider community but you too!!

If you would like to join or just call for a visit. We are on site every Tuesday from 2.30pm. Alternatively contact Ann on 085-8381653 (please leave a message) or email kilkenny@ menssheds.ie

St Joseph’s Home Dignity - Peace - Security

St. Joseph's Supported Care Home is a supported care facility in the picturesque village of Kilmoganny, Co. Kilkenny. We provide low to medium dependency long term and respite care to individuals who wish to avail of these supports in a home away from home environment.

The home itself can cater for up to 20 residents. There are 16 single bedrooms and 2 double shared bedrooms. It promotes independent living in a safe and comfortable environment for the older people of the parish and surrounding parishes and is established as an integral part in the provision of a comprehensive service to the elderly in the community. We provide dinners for those in our community who may not be able to cook at home. Our dinners are freshly cooked every day with the finest and freshest produce and ingredients. We have a daycare service every Wednesday for the elderly local parishioners. There are garden areas on 1 acre of land with seating available for residents to sit and relax outside and we are a short walking distance to all amenities in the village. The residents who reside here

enjoy daily activities that vary from bingo, bowling, art classes, music, pet therapy, flower arranging and many more hobbies and interests.

St. Joseph's Home is funded by a grant from the HSE, resident’s fees and fundraising in the community. The home relies

greatly on fundraising and in recent years we have been able to install new windows, paint interior areas, purchase infection prevention items for the staff and residents, update the bedrooms and maintain our gardens.

St. Joseph's home prides itself on providing local employment to the area and we always try to support our local businesses and trades people. Community is extremely important to the staff and residents and we are always very grateful for the continued support of the people of Kilmoganny and the entire parish of Dunnamaggin. We also are very grateful to our residents and their families who continue to champion our work which is so important to us as an

If people wish to receive any further information about the home, please do not hesitate to contact Nurse Manager, Ms. Lisa Prendergast or our Staff Nurse, Ms. Nicola Brophy on 051 648 091 or email sjhome15@gmail. com.

Positive ageing – a new agenda for later life

Positive Ageing Week 2024 is a time for all our local authorities and Older People’s council to organize events for our seniors. Events that encourage interaction and activities to keep seniors active. But what is Positive ageing?

Positive ageing is for those who want to do ageing differently. The traditional approach tends to be passive, fatalistic and rather downbeat. The new positive approach is very different. It understands that the ‘mind’ can have a significant impact on our physical and emotional wellbeing and positive ageing therefore focuses on the emotional and psychological aspects of ageing.

Research has shown that negative beliefs, thoughts, ideas and attitudes about ageing can have a detrimental impact on our physical, emotional and mental wellbeing as we age. This negativity about ageing is evident in the stereotypes about older people which are prevalent in society. These attitudes tend to become internalised as we age and can generate rather defeat-

ist, de-motivating and self-limiting ideas about ourselves and our journey through later life. This can undermine our health and wellbeing as we get older.

To counter this, a positive ageing approach proposes three principal strategies to prevent these negative outcomes. We are encouraged to: -

• 1. Develop a more balanced understanding of the reality of ageing which recognises the positive aspects of ageing as well as the more challenging ones

• 2. Apply techniques drawn from humanistic psychology to gain a degree of control over negative mental states

• 3.Consciously build our emotional wellbeing and inner resilience so that we are better able to negotiate the significant challenges in later life.

Positive ageing is more

than a philosophy – it is a practical way of improving the chances of having better life as we age. A positive ageing approach is underpinned by the following presuppositions: -

• A. It is not what happens to us in later life, but how we respond, which will determine our wellbeing as we age.

• B. External conditions and life events are obviously influential, but the choices we make on how to interpret and react to events in our lives is what makes the difference to our experience.

• C. It is important to develop and maintain a positive and optimistic mindset which rejects self-limiting beliefs based on what is considered ‘age appropriate’ or ‘normal’ for some of our age.

• D. Such age-related limitations should be chal-

lenged.

• E. Age denial, the attempt to resist or cover up our ageing process, is a form of rejection of our future selves and needs to be challenged.

• F. We should be proud of whatever age we are and not succumb to age denial through anti-ageing potions or flattery about ‘not looking our age’. We are the age we are, and we look the age we look, at the age we are. #BeAgeProud

• G. Acceptance of getting older, including our mortality, is key to our wellbeing and happiness. Equanimity about this part of life’s journey is more beneficial than resistance and despair. So, there we have it. For the past number of years, the South East had come together and put together programmes for our seniors. This year that group unfortunately did sit or collaborate and coordinate

events. The week or two week of positive ageing events gives us an opportunity to show society age is just a number on a piece of paper. Therefore, Lets get out there and enjoy this period of our life and avail of the services we have. Join an active retirement group, Seniors Forum group, Residents groups and keep going till we can’t! And hopefully that is years or even decades away.

It could be instructive in this Positive Ageing Week to look at the town of Roseto, Pennsylvania, USA.

In the 1850s, a community from Roseto, central Italy, emigrated to the US North East state. These new residents replicated the life they had left behind. They built close-knit houses, grew vegetables and fruits in their gardens, made wine from their own grapes, built schools, churches, bakeries, so that over time, Roseto grew into a bustling city.

One hundred years later a local doctor began to notice that very few of his Roseto patients suffered from heart disease compared to the general population in Pennsylvania. During the 1950s, drugs to lower cholesterol levels were not readily available, and heart diseases were rife. But not in Roseto. Simply put, their residents only died of old age. What was the secret?

Academics started to conduct research and discovered that Roseto residents were only half as likely as their neighbours to be stricken with heart attacks, hypertension and strokes. Further records revealed no suicides, no drug addiction, no alcoholism, and a virtually non-existent crime rate.

At first, it was thought that their diet was superior, and the inhabitants must be physically very fit. But no, they loved pasta, oils and creamy foods, many had a poor exercise routine and were overweight. Further examination revealed

The Roseto Effect in Positive Ageing Week

that rather than genetics or diet, the social structure and culture of the Roseto residents was the core reason for their long, healthy and happy lives. These people expressed themselves in a family-centred social life. Families were close knit and independent. People shopped locally and supported family businesses. Several generations of a single family often lived together under the same roof. No one was alone. Older people were not marginalised but valued as informal arbitrators in everyday life. There was constant intergenerational contact, a unique relationship between neighbours, with older citizens knowing there was always someone looking out for them.

Local clubs and organisations were well-attended and people reached out to those across the street rather than locking themselves in. Every evening in Roseta was like a festival – people cooking for one another often outdoors, lively stories, and conversation went on til the stars came out. In short, the quality of interpersonal relationships was the reason for long and happy lives.

What can we learn from this lifestyle in Positive Ageing Week? The Irish climate, particularly as we move into winter, will not lend itself to mass outdoor living. We probably can’t grow our own grapes and our homes are generally not large enough to accommodate three generations. However,

we too can become more aware of the potential in our own neighbourhood whether it be giving a lift to an older neighbour, helping with their shopping, or bringing in their fuel. We could investigate the value of social engagement as demonstrated in the HSE Social Prescribing scheme now widely available. These days if you visit your GP feeling low, you may well be offered a proposal rather than a pill. The scheme gives professionals a means of referring people to a range of non-clinical community supports which can have significant benefits for their overall health and wellbeing. Social prescribing suggestions from your GP could include joining a walking group or book club, enrolling in an autumn course, checking out what’s available locally in clubs and associations, see if there is a local Men’s or Women’s Sheds group, try a hand at community gardening, the arts, or creativity. Social Prescribing recognises that health is heavily determined by social factors such as isolation and loneliness, and that looking out for each other in a more open and caring way is a real aid to positive ageing. The residents of Roseto knew that over a hundred years ago. Positive Ageing Week is promoted in SeniorLine, Ireland’s national confidential telephone service. Freefone 1800 80 45 91, open 10am10pm daily.

A home from home

Rosedale Residential Home is located in the upper village of Kilmacow in County Kilkenny, just kilometres from Waterford City. It is set on 3 acres of gardens within walking distance of all amenities, including a Church, Post Office, Sports Grounds, Supermarket, Bar, and Community Centre.

Rosedale is a voluntary non-profit organisation with Board of Management comprising of members from the local community and was founded in 1986 to provide care for the elderly of the area who could no longer live safely at home.

Rosedale Residential Home is registered as a support home for the elderly and is regulated by HIQA. The Complex is managed by a competent and professional team of carers providing a high level of personal support and companionship in a family-oriented atmosphere and offers:

1. Assisted Living for up to fifteen low dependency residents needing help with the activities of daily living, but still wishing to live as independently as possible.

2. Sheltered Housing facilities comprising sixteen

independent living homes especially designed to suit the needs of elderly tenants. All homes are semi-detached and single storey, opening onto well-manicured gardens. Rosedale provides a warm, safe and caring environment for each resident, while they are being helped with the activities of daily living. The quality of personal care assures families that they are doing their very best for their elderly parents or relatives. Rosedale certainly delivers on its mission of providing a ‘home from home’ residence for low dependency older persons in a friendly, caring, and sharing environment.

6 Tips for boosting a senior loved one’s emotional wellbeing

Changes brought on by ageing frequently put elderly people at risk for difficult feelings like melancholy or apathy. Even while you might not be able to shield your elderly loved one from painful feelings like loss, you can put procedures in place to support their mental health. By following these suggestions, you can assist your loved one in preserving their emotional well-being as they face the difficulties of ageing.

1. Encourage Socialisation

Friendships are vital in life, and after retirement, older persons may need to put in more effort to discover social activities. Throughout the week, make sure your loved one receives frequent visits from friends or relatives. Next, keep an eye out for community social events, such as senior dances, that your loved one might be interested in attending.

2. Ask for Input

It is always important to involve older individuals in significant decisions about their care. Always get your loved one's input on any changes to their care plan. By getting your loved one's opinion on other circumstances, you can also assist them in maintaining a feeling of purpose. For example, if your loved one has experience

in construction, you could ask them to assist you in planning a home improvement.

3. Promote Physical Health

There is a close relationship between mental and physical wellbeing. An insufficient diet, insufficient sleep, or neglecting physical activity can all affect your loved one's mood. Assist your loved one in making a routine that incorporates all the essential elements of preserving physical well-being. To prevent a decline in your loved one's emotional state due to their physical health, offer to drive them to the doctor or food shop if needed.

4. Reminisce Together

Positive thinking replaces negative thought patterns that could harm your loved one. Grab some photo albums and spend a few minutes gazing back on your fond est family experi ences. By en courag ing the grand children to compile an album of the priceless

times they have spent with their grandparents, you may even turn this into a family affair.

5. Help with Grooming

A brand-new hairstyle or outfit has a certain effect that makes people feel good. Seniors can confront obstacles that interfere with the capacity to maintain their look, such as incontinence or mobility issues. To ensure that your loved one always feels up to receiving visitors or going out in the community, help them discover solutions by employing dressing aids or hiring a professional carer to help with bathing.

6. Provide Mental

eniors who maintain a busy schedule with interests and activities are less prone to dwell on unpleasant memories. Give your loved one crafts, puzzles, and reading materials so they may pass the time engaging in fun activities. Encourage your loved one to engage in these activities with their companion if they have one in order to maximise the feeling of wellbeing that eing busy brings.

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 See the Ghosts

I see the ghosts of yesteryear, I hear them in the wind, in an infant’s smile, I spy, past people who were kind. In a wrinkled brow I ken, the lights of dawns ago, the happy faces that have flown, beyond these mortal woes. I know the places where they go, in an olden part of town, as every eve’ they congregate, before the dark drops down. And when, alone, my tears drip down in grief, my heart is torn, but, in a hundred thousand smiles are hid, their missing human forms. For I do not know why I live, or why I have to die; but, I live in hope to see them all, beyond that final sigh.

Jim Murray

It is Here Within

We’re always searching for peace, for love, for what we haven’t got. We struggle to feel good to let go fear and anger and to be good enough. We fight for what we need to be happy. The harder we try, the more out of reach it becomes.

But then we realise, we have it all inside, the answer, the light, we look inside and stop seeking outside. We have always been at peace, calm and loved. It’s here, so close when we look, He has given it all to us, He is always here within.

Se Nicholson

Candles

I’m lightning candles with my grandmother in the cathedral in Thurles.

We remember our dead and the son that she lost twenty years ago.

Her sister in Roscommon gone too soon. She blessed herself and stood back and gazed awhile at the flame. Each year more candles needed to be lit for the souls in Purgatory. They need our prayers she said. For life is a valley of tears. Not all the darkness in all the world can blow out a single candle.

She smiled down at me.

My child hand could feel her rings.

Her ancient hand.

Now you are gone from me, and without you, I light a candle in the empty church under a statue of our Lady.

I whisper out your name. Claire.

Eoghan O’ Driscoll

Photo: Padraig Comerford

Photo ; Task Camera club

Food & Drink

lasagne Dine MeWith Come

Macaroni cheese

Prep: 10 mins

Cook: 1 hr and 20 mins plus resting

Serves: 6-8

Feeling a bit fuzzy or need some comfort? Mac ‘n’ cheese and lasagne are sure to do the trick –and here we’ve combined them for the ultimate indulgent dish.

Ingredients

• 2 t bsp olive oil

• 400g le an beef mince

• 50g smoked pancetta, chopped

• ½ onion, finel y chopped

• ½ celer y stick, finely chopped

• ½ carrot, finely chopped

• 1 garlic clove, crushed

• 150ml red wine

• 1 t bsp tomato purée

• 400g can chopped tomatoes

• 250ml b eef stock

• 2 b ay leaves

• 1 rosemary sprig

• 1 ts p sugar

• 400g macaroni

• 80g grated mozzarella

• a few whole b asil leaves, to serve (optional)

For the cheese sauce

• 50g butter

• 50g pl ain flour

• 2 ts p English mustard

• 800ml s emi-skimmed milk

• small grating of nutmeg

• 100g grated parmesan

• 100g mature cheddar, grated

STEP 1

Heat half the oil in a large, heavybased frying pan or casserole dish over a medium-high heat, and fry the mince and pancetta until golden. Transfer to a bowl using a slotted spoon and set aside.

STEP 2

Add the remaining oil to the pan and fry the onion, celery

and carrot for 10 mins until just softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 min more, then return the meat to the pan.Tip in the wine, bring to a simmer and cook until the mixture is reduced by half. Stir in the tomato purée, tomatoes, stock, bay, rosemary and sugar. Simmer, covered, for 30 mins, then remove the lid and simmer uncovered for another 10 mins until reduced. The ragu will keep in the freezer for up to two months. Leave to cool completely before freezing.

Sticky toffee pudding

Prep:3 0 mins

Cook: 8 hrs plus 30 mins soaking

Serves: 8

Leave our slow cooker sticky pudding to cook all day so it’s ready to serve in the evening with ice cream. Rich and indulgent, it’s the ultimate comforting dessert.

Ingredients

• 250g pitted dates, chopped

• 100g butter, plus extra for the basin

• 4 tbsp treacle

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 250g light brown soft sugar

• 300ml double cream

• 2 eggs, lightly beaten

• 200g s elf-raising flour

• 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda

• vanilla ice cream, to serve

Method

STEP 1

Put the dates in a heatproof bowl, cover with 150ml boiling water, and leave to soak for 30 mins. Butter a 1-litre pudding basin and line the base with baking parchment.

STEP 2

Tip half the butter, half the treacle, the vanilla, 75g of the sugar and the cream into a pan set over a medium heat. Cook for 4-5 mins, stirring, until the sugar dissolves. Turn up the heat, bubble for 3 mins, then whisk in a pinch of salt. Pour a third of the sauce into the basin.

STEP 3

Beat the remaining butter, treacle, sugar and the eggs together, then fold in the flour, bicarb, ¼ tsp salt, the dates and their soaking liquid. Spoon into the basin and smooth the surface, leaving a 1cm gap from the top. Cover with a double layer of baking parchment and foil, making a pleat in the middle so the pud can expand. Secure with kitchen string.

STEP 4 Set the slow cooker to low. Sit the basin inside, then add boiling water so it comes halfway up the basin. Cover and cook for 7-8 hrs. Run a knife around the edge of the pudding and turn out onto a plate. Reheat the remaining sauce and pour over. Serve with ice cream.

STEP 3

Meanwhile, make the cheese sauce. Melt the butter in a saucepan until foaming, then stir in the flour and cook for 2 mins. Stir in the mustard, then remove from the heat and gradually whisk in the milk in small additions. Return the pan to the heat and simmer for 5-6 mins, whisking continuously until thick and smooth. Add the nutmeg, parmesan and 80g of the cheddar, then season to taste.

STEP 4

Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6, and cook the macaroni in a large pan of boiling water for 5 mins. Drain, then stir into the cheese sauce. Spread the ragu into the base of a large rectangular baking dish (ours was 28 x 22 x 5cm), then spoon over the mac ‘n’ cheese and gently spread out using the back of a spoon to cover the ragu. Top with the remaining cheddar and the mozzarella, and bake for 25-30 mins until golden and bubbling. Leave to rest for 5 mins, then scatter over a few basil leaves to serve, if you like.

The gritty world of organised crime and law enforcement

American Gangster is finding a new audience on Netfllix. With an impressive cast, including Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe, the movie brings you into the gritty world of organised crime and the complexities of law enforcement. This crime thriller was actually considered underrated during the 2000s due to the overwhelming focus on blockbuster franchises. However, it’s getting the attention it deserves now.

American Gangster is a crime drama loosely based on the true story of Frank Lucas, a Harlem drug lord in the 1970s. Lucas (Denzel Washington), rises to power by smuggling heroin directly from Southeast Asia into the S, bypassing the traditional Mafia-dom-

inated supply chains. His operation is incredibly profitable, as he brings in purer and cheaper drugs than his competitors.

The movie also follows Richie Roberts (Russell Crowe), an honest and relentless detective tasked with bringing Lucas down, and Detective Trupo (Josh Brolin), a corrupt narcotics officer who colludes with drug dealers. He embodies the moral ambiguity within law enforcement.

American Gangster is relentless, and the on-screen violence won’t be for those who seek a relaxing watch. It easily stands out as a gritty, unflinching depiction of the drug trade. Even from the first scene, when Lucas watches as his mentor, Bumpy Johnson (Clarence Williams III), commits a

horrifying crime, he shows no emotion, despite this being one of the most brutal moments ever. This movie isn’t for the faint of heart, since most of the action doesn’t shy away from showing the harsh realities of the drug trade. But that’s not to say it isn’t worth watching. Denzel Washington’s performance alone makes this movie a standout (and a worthy addition to your list). He plays such a complex man who is both ruthless and shrewd, yet he doesn’t stray too far into the villain category. The movie does have its weak points, and those mainly come down to its unnecessarily long length (a whopping two hours and 56 minutes). James Kendrick from Q Network Film Desk agreed that the

1. Agatha All Along

Stripped of her powers by Wanda Maximoff in WandaVision’s final episode, Agatha Harkness must cobble together her own coven of misfit witches to traverse the Witches’ Road, a dangerous realm that, if successfully navigated, will turn a traveler’s long-held dream into reality. No pressure, then.

This Marvel Phase 5 show looks like it could be another MCU TV project that dominates online discussions throughout its nine-episode run. Campy, catty, chilling, and cackle-inducing two-episode premiere on Disney Plus.

duration often dampened the narrative: “An intriguing crime saga that is long on atmosphere and short on momentum.”

So, now that it’s in the Top 10, is American Gangster actually worth a watch? Yes, this crime drama is definitely worth seeing for its powerful performances alone, especially from Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe, along with its intense action (that can get brutal, keep in mind). However, be aware of its lengthy runtime; at over two and a half hours, some moments can feel a bit dragged out. If you don’t mind a longer viewing experience and appreciate deep, character-driven stories, then American Gangster is definitely a movie to add to your streaming list.

Three underrated Amazon Prime movies

Please note, despite having an Amazon Prime Video account, these three movies are only available to rent at €3.99 – but worth the few bob!

Please note, despite having your Dead Ringers (1988)

A creepy, brilliant movie featuring an amazing central performance from Jeremy Irons, Dead Ringers follows a gynaecologist who is attracted to many of his patients and proceeds to sleep with them. After he loses interest, he passes these women off to his identical twin brother, who works at the same practice, without the women being any the wiser. The movie spirals out from there as the twins find themselves getting played, but the real reason Dead

Ringers is worth watching is because of Irons’s duelling central performances. Few actors are asked to do as much as Irons is here, and even fewer manage to pull it off.

Five Easy Pieces (1970)

A classic of one of Hollywood’s most experimental eras, Five Easy Pieces follows a young man who stands to inherit a great fortune, but has turned

away from that life in favour of a more workingclass existence. When he discovers that his father is dying, though, he decides to make a trip back to his family’s estate to confront the man.

The movie plays like a bit of an odyssey, but the whole thing is anchored by the coiled rage that Jack Nicholson‘s central character expresses throughout the film. Few actors do rage

like Nicholson, and this movie allows him to deliver one of his most important performances.

House Of Games (1987)

A thriller filled with twists and turns, House of Games follows a psychiatrist who finds herself embroiled in a con game that she doesn’t totally understand after she’s charmed by a con man. House of Games is smart both about the way that running a con can be a game in and of itself, and about the real emotional stakes that being conned and made to feel a fool can create.

The movie is sharply written and well-acted from its very first frame, and it may not be widely known as others of its kind, but it deserves to sit alongside some of the best of them.

2. His Three Daughters

His Three Daughters already promises to be one of the best Netflix movies of 2024 with its 99% Rotten Tomatoes score – and that’s before it has even started streaming on Netflix. His Three Daughters features a starstudded cast of Elizabeth Olsen, Carrie Coon, and Natasha Lyonne, who play three estranged sisters that reunite in New York City to care for their ill father. As the sisters wait at their father’s bedside during his final days, they confront past resentments and face fresh struggles in their relationships.

Strap in for the emotional rollercoaster ride with one of September’s new Netflix movies.

3. A Very Royal Scandal

Just like Netflix’s Scoop, which aired earlier in the year, A Very Royal Scandal on Prime Video is another bombshell drama about Prince Andrew’s explosive 2019 Newsnight interview. A Very Royal Scandal is a retelling of Newsnight journalist Emily Maitlis’ journey leading up to her interview with Prince Andrew on the BBC Two news and current affairs programme. Michael Sheen takes on the role of Prince Andrew, while Ruth Wilson plays Maitlis, so if the two leading stars are anything to go by, there’s a possibility that this could end up as one of the best Prime Video shows.

4. Twilight Of The Gods Zack Snyder needs no introduction around these parts, but the beloved/divisive director’s (delete as applicable) partnership with Netflix got off to an inauspicious start with the arrival of his two-part Rebel Moon movie. Despite pulling in viewers when Rebel Moon Part 1 aired last December, both films’ critical and commercial receptions left a lot to be desired, and it’s unclear if Snyder’s epic sci-fi franchise will be given the time, effort, and money it demands to turn its fortunes around.

Twilight of the Gods stars Sylvia Hoeks as Sigrid, an iron-willed warrior who, after assembling a ragtag group of crusaders, embarks on a death-defying mission of revenge.

Community & GAA Notes

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news

CLARA

CLUB LOTTO

Lotto results for 17th September. Numbers drawn 5, 6, 26. There was no Jackpot winner.

The following won €30 each to Ken and Sharon Breen, Hugh Kelly, Noreen Brennan, Ed Mulrooney, Isabella Prendergast. Please continue to support.

RELEGATION AVERTED

The Clara seniors ladies staved off the threat of relegation in Gowran on Sunday morning with an emphatic 5-11 to 0-8 win over Paulstown. They now march on to a quarter final. They were missing Rachel Whelan and just before the throw in they were also shorn of the services of Grace Barcoe who pulled up during the warmup. They never allowed it to affect them however and dictated the terms of this from the outset. Siobhán Treacy came in at centre forward and did an excellent job of curtailing the influence of her cousin Shauna Treacy while Katie Ryan and Tamsin English did likewise on dangerwomen Colette Dormer and Miriam Bambrick respectively. Lucy Cody and Aine McDonald were very solid in their corner back positions and Laoise Nolan and Gráinne Glynn defended tigerishly and delivered loads of good ball into a grateful forward line. Rebecca Nolan and Aisling Curtis foraged tirelessly around midfield and were helped out a lot by auxiliary midfielder Keara Ryan. Mary O Connell was back to her very best, chipping in with five from play, while Lucy Boyd belied her years on the other wing with a fine showing, her physicality really shining through. Niamh Byrne worked very hard and brought all her experience to bear on the game, scoring a fine goal while Emma Shortall tormented the Paulstown defence with her pace every time she gained possession and added three goals and a point to her name. Netminder Aoife Glynn capped a very assured display with a late penalty save from Róisín Breen. All five Clara subs brought something to the fray with Margaret O Connell getting her name on the scoresheet with a goal.

Clara led 2-7 to 0-3 at halftime and really just needed to keep the scoreboard ticking in the second half. They did more than that however as they kicked on impressively and, but for a mini Paulstown purple patch during which they hit their only three points from play in a row, Clara dominated the second half too. They now look forward to the next round and if their injuries come right management will have the welcome headache of picking their best team. Team - Aoife Glynn, Lucy Cody, Katie Ryan, Aine McDonald. Tamsin English, Laoise Nolan, Gráinne Glynn. Rebecca Nolan, Aisling Curtis. Mary O Connell 0-6, 0-1f, Siobhán Treacy, Lucy Boyd. Keara Ryan 0-4, 0-2 x 45s, 0-1f, Niamh Byrne 1-0, Emma Shortall 3-1. Subs used Niamh Ward, Margaret O Connell 1-0, Róisín Kealy, Sarah Dunne, Peig Carrigan.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS

CAMOGIE VICTORY

O’Loughlin Gaels camogie team enjoyed a victory by 2-15 to 0-7 over St. Claire’s in the Intermediate championship first round in Slieverue on Sunday morning last. It was a strong team performance by O’Loughlin’s who backed by the breeze were dominant from the start. Laura Greene and Laura Murphy shared the first half scoring between them and both had a goal to leave their team 2-8 to 0-3 in front at the interval. When play resumed O’Loughlins continued to dominate and Danielle Quigley and Siofra O’Leary joined Laura Greene and Laura Murphy on the scoresheet as O’Loughlins added a further seven points to their total to finish comfortable winners in what was a very good team performance.

Team and scorers: Kate Furlong, Ailbhe Galway, Neasa Galway, Jan Holohan, Riona Crowley, Danielle Quigley (0-1), Abigail Egan, Laura Greene (1-6), Laura Murphy (1-7, 0-2 frees, 0-1 65’), Iveta V. Kate Lawless, Emma Poyntz, Ena Lawlor, Ruth Crowley, Jennifer O’Keeffe. Subs: Siofra O’Leary (0-1), Hannah Quinn, Aoife Shealy, Eva Collins, Sheena O’Keeffe, Aoife Dillon.

BUSY WEEKEND

It was a busy weekend for O’Loughlin Gaels juvenile Camogie players as the Under 12 Camogie Black and Red teams competed in the finals day in Inistioge on Saturday Morning last. The black team were triumphant in their final while the red team came up that little but short after a good game with the hosts. It was much enjoyed by this group and thanks go to their mentors. Thanks also to Rower Inistioge Camogie for hosting the event.

Saturday was also a busy day for O’Loughlin Gaels Under 10 Camogie players as one hundred girls came together to St. John’s Park on Saturday for the Under 10 Blitz with James Stephens and Dicksboro joining the hosts and taking part. There was some great displays of Camogie from all the teams. Well done to all.

JUNIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP WIN

O’Loughlin Gaels junior hurlers enjoyed another win in the JJ Kavanagh and Sons Junior Hurling Championship when they defeated Erin’s Own in the semi-final of Section B. The game was played in Jenkinstown on Sunday last and O’Loughlin’s won by 2-16 to 0-11. The first half was evenly

contested until the eighteenth minute when Jack Sheridan scored a very good individual goal. His side dominated from there to the interval when they led by 1-8 to 0-5. They maintained a lead throughout the second half and a second goal scored by Ruarc Sweeney with ten minutes remaining in the game put his team in full control. They now play James Stephens in the Section B final with a place in the Junior Championship for the winners.

Team and Scorers Declan Murphy, Ben Leydon, Barry Lawlor, Jamie Young, Jay Leahy, Finn Hogan, Matthew Russell (0-1), Oisín Murphy, Sammy Johnston ( 0-8, 0-5 frees), Robbie Buckley (0-1), Greg Kelly (0-3), Alex Sheridan (0-1), Jack Sheridan (1-1), Ryan Poyntz (0-1), Kevin Murphy. Subs: Ruarc Sweeney (1-0). John Mc Namara, John Doyle.

HANDBALL NEWS

O’Loughlin Gaels’ Ollie Morrissey was part of a successful Leinster Handball team last weekend in Croke Park which played against their Munster counterparts. The competition was held to celebrate 100 years of handball. The winners received a specially commissioned medal to commemorate the Anniversary. A big thanks to the organisers and to Croke Park for their hospitality, a great days handball was had. Well done Ollie.

ALL STAR NOMINATION FOR HUW

The release of the nominees for this year’s All Star awards saw Kilkenny receive four nominations. Everyone in O’Loughlin Gaels was delighted to see our own Huw Lawlor receive a nomination in the back division . Well done Huw from all in O’Loughlin Gaels.

CLUB LOTTO

There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto held on September 17th. The numbers drawn were 5, 10,11, 26 bonus 18. Play now at www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto Promotors Draw, 1. The Sunday Six. 2. Eugene Phelan c/o P Dowling. 3. Chris Goulding c/o D O’Driscoll. 4. Mucky Murray c/o JJ Cullen. 5. The Sunday Six. 6. Jimmy Walsh C/o Ml Doran. 7. Eileen and Eve c/o E Kinchella. 8. Lindsey Lehane c/o Online. 9. Noeleen Breene c/o Online. 10. Barry Power c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support.

NOTES

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

BENNETTSBRIDGE

CULTURE NIGHT

Culture Night was marked in a special way in Callan with a lecture on Thomas Kilroy, the renowned, playwright, novelist and academic who passed away on December, 7th 2023. Callan Heritage Society organized the evening with Dr. Patrick Mason delivering the lecture. The title of the talk was, ‘Kilroy, the Abbey, and the High Ambition. Held in the Brother Rice Centre, Westcourt, Callan.

Thomas Kilroy, the renowned playwright, novelist and academic passed away on December 7th, 2023. He was born and raised on Green Street in Callan. Over the course of his literary career he produced a significant number of new plays and adaptations. He published one novel, The Big Chapel, which was shortlisted for the 1971 Booker Prize. He published his memoir, Over the Backyard Wall in 2018. Following his passing, President Michael D Higgins said: ‘Thomas will be remembered as one of the most significant of a generation of playwrights’.

The large attendance included,Thomas’s brother, John Kilroy, with his family. Members of the Bennettsbridge Men’s Shed of which John is an enthusiastic member were there to support their friend. Refreshments were enjoyed in Fennelly’s following the lecture.

MICKEY KELLY ANNUAL TOURNAMENT

The annual Mickey Kelly Hurling tournament took place on Sunday 15th September. Taking part were, Tullaroan, Graigue-Ballycallan, Erins Own, Barrow Rangers , Holycross-Ballycahill (Tipperary)and Bennettsbridge. Super hurling was served up with lots of talent and the makings of future stars.

Barrow Rangers were winners of the Mickey Kelly Cup, with Bennettsbridge Shield A winners and Graigue-Ballycallan Shield B winners.

Timmy Kelly, grandson of Mickey Kelly and David Blanchfield presented medals to all the players. The future of the club is all about underage hurling so well done to all JOSEPHINE DUNNE RIP

Josephine Dunne who died recently in London was one of seven children born to Johnny and Alice Dunne, Bennettsbridge. Sympathy goes to her family. Predeceased by her parents, brother Kevin and sister, Marie. Josephine is survived by her siblings, Johnny (Thomastown), Angela, Evelyn, Billy (London).

Their late father, Johnny Dunne (of lovely Johnny Dunne fame) won two All-Ireland Hurling Medals with Kilkenny in 1930 and 1932.

O’Loughlin Gaels Under 12 Camogie Team Black

O’Loughlin Gaels Under 12 Camogie Team Red

Workshop Flower Pressing in Thomastown

Flower pressing workshop in Thomastown Biodiversity Garden

EAMON HAYES RIP

Sympathy goes to the Hayes family, Bennettsbridge on the death of Eamon Hayes in London. Eamon was one of seven children born to Edward and Catherine Hayes, The Ring. Pre-deceased by his parents and sister, Kitty, he is survived by siblings, Maura, Christy, Frank, Siobhán and Fionnuala

and extended family.

BEREAVED

Kathleen O’Neill, Gowran Road, has been bereaved by the death of her brother, Paddy Brennan, in Boston recently.

Paddy had reached the great age of 89 and he and his wife had recently celebrated 64 years of marriage.

CHURCH

Weekday Masses, Wednesday and Friday,10.30am

CATHEDRAL DRAW

The St Mary’s Cathedral Restoration Fund Draw got underway last Wednesday night. Bishop Niall has thanked all who have supported the draw and has asked priests and promoters to continue to enroll people to support this. Since it was introduced over nine years ago the draw has raised over €750.000. Contact usual promoters or Fr Pat Dalton if you would like to take part.

LOTTO

This Draw was held on September 16th the numbers drawn were, 4, 17, 23, 27.There was no winner of the Jackpot. Consolation Prizes went to, Michael and Anne Dobbyn, Gowran Road, Mary Wemyss, Gowran Road, BB Syndicate, Erin and Freddie, c/o Mandy Simpson, D’Bally Boys.

GATHERING

The Gathering Group met for their weekly session with a good attendance. All the usual activities were enjoyed including tea and biscuits followed by gentle chair exercises, bingo and skittles. The Gathering Group is open to all.

ART GROUP

Local artists returned to classes yesterday after their break. Appreciation to is extended CKETB for their welcome funding for the next number of classes.

GAA

Senior Hurling; We wish the very best of luck to our senior hurlers and management who play Tullaroan in the championship quarter final in Castlecomer next Saturday at 4.30pm. All support greatly appreciated for the lads in their quest to make the semi-finals for the second year running.

All Star Nominee; Huge congratulations to Bennettsbridge club man David Blanchfield who was nominated for an All Star last week. This is hugely deserved after David played some great hurling for Kilkenny this year. We at the club wish David good luck on the night and we should all be proud of his achievement.

Underage Games; Hard luck to our under 14 A team who lost out to a very strong Mooncoin team in the championship quarter final last week. The young ‘Bridge lads gave their all but were up against a physically stronger team on the day.

Our under 12s took part in a tournament in St Martin’s in Wexford and performed extremely well. They played Oulart, Gowran, Ballyboden, Oylgate and St Martins. The under 12 camogie team also played in a tournament and also did very well. Our Under 8s and under 6s were in

action in Callan and played some great hurling. Well done to all.

Our minors and under 14 B team are in shield action on Saturday against Tullaroan and Dicksboro respectively. Please see the Kilkenny Gaa website for details. Best of luck to both teams.

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 0868856810or David Blanchfield on 0860529386 if you would like to take part.

Split the Pot; The next draw takes place this Friday at 6 pm in the clubhouse. Thanks again for the continued support. 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.

FRESHFORD

BRIDGET O’REILLY RIP

The people of the area were saddened last week to hear of the death of Mrs. Bridget O’Reilly late of Inch, Freshford. Although in her mid 80s Bridget was still out and about and her passing was unexpected. She was widely known and respected in the area. A very quiet and good living lady she was predeceased by her husband Christy and her son Gerry. Her funeral mass took place in Clontubrid Church followed by burial in St.Lachtains Cemetery, Freshford. She is mourned by her daughter Kathleen, her son Brendan, grandchildren, great grandchildren, brother, son in law, daughter in law, and extended family to whom deepest sympathy is extended.

WEDDING BELLS

Congratulations and best wishes go out to James Bergin Blackwood, Freshford and Bridget Brennan who were married in St Canices Cathedral Kilkenny followed by reception in the Rivercourt Hotel. They are wished all the very best in their new married life together.

COFFEE MORNING

Bewleys Coffee morning for Hospice was held in Threecastles Hall on Saturday last with all proceeds from the event going to Waterford Hospice and every cup counted. The organisers would like to thank all those who supported the event or donated in any way.

Freshford Squash Club would like to congratulate one of their young members Nathan Walsh who finished third in the first junior open of the year in the U15 section last weekend. Well done Nathan.

GAA

St Lachtains minor hurlers were defeated by James Stephens in the Roinn C championship semi-final last Sunday evening in Pairc Lachtain. The local boys were well ahead in the second half but the city side came back into it and finished the stronger. The game finished all square after 60 minutes, two periods of extra time were needed to separate the sides. The Freshford side led in the last stages of extra time but the village lads put in a late rally which saw them over the line on a final score of St Lachtains 1-22 James Stephens 2-22.

The U14s defeated Piltown in the Roinn B shield semi-final on Saturday morning. The Freshford lads were in fine scoring form and now go into the final against Carrickshock. St Lachtains U16 hurlers take on Galmoy/Windgap in the Roinn C championship semi-final on Saturday next. In the Junior Championship, the knockout stages of the championship season is here for the Junior team.

St Lachtains have been drawn against Galmoy in the quarter final which will take place next Sunday at 12oon in Urlingford.

BINGO

The weekly bingo sessions resumed last Friday night after been cancelled the previous week as a mark of respect to the late Gerry Watson. The bingo will continue each Friday evening in Freshford Community Hall at 8pm with some good prize money and raffle each week. All proceeds goes 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.

SYMPATHY

Sincere sympathy is extended to Mrs. Mary Neary, Bootstown on the death last week of her mother Mrs. Christina Grace late of Assumption Place, Kilkenny. Funeral mass took place in St. John’s Church Kilkenny, followed by burial In St.Kieran’s Cemetery.

CAMOGIE

Congratulations to the U14 girls who won the Shield Final on Sunday last when they defeated O’LoughlinGaels on a score of 9-7 o 4-9. Well done to the girls and their management team on a great success.

St Lachtains Intermediate camogie girls were in action on Sunday last also and were defeated by Conahy Shamrocks in the Shield Final.

LOOP CAFÉ

Why not go along and improve your computer skills at the Loop café? Kilkenny Adult Learning services are 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

Thomastown Scouts holding up their pressed flowers made at the Culture Workshop in Thomastown

Young Bennettsbridge players who took part in the Mickey Kelly Tournament

Community & GAA Notes

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

The soccer season has now resumed. The Junior side have no games for the next few weeks but underage were already in action.

The U13 boys were in action at the weekend and won 4-2 against Clover Utd with Max O’Neill netting all four goals. The club are presently looking for players to sign up for the U12 girls as they are short players at the moment. So go along and put down your name if you are interested in playing as if they don’t have sufficient numbers they will not able to put in a team.

The soccer academy for young boys 5/6 upwards continues

each Saturday at 9.30am and will continue each week. The Club are 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.

COLIN MCGREE TOURNAMENT

The annual Colin McGree soccer tournament was held at Woodview on Sunday last. The tournament is run each year in remembrance of Colin who was a great footballer himself. All boys and girls from U10 to U13 were invited to participate. In the first semi-final Jamie Kavanagh’s side beat Sean Yeardley’s side by 3-2 and the second semi final saw Patrick O’Connors team beat Max O;Neills team by narrowest of margins 1-0.The final saw Jamie Kavanaghs side come out winners over Patrick O’Connors side on a scoreline of 3-2

Teams:

J.Kavanagh (Capt) B.Looby, L.McCarthy, K.Grant,J.Kavanagh, F.Cullen and N.Barnaville.

P O’Connor (Capt) T.Dalton, C.Grant, DJ Walsh, C.Gleeson and H.Hughes.

S.Eardley (Capt) N Flynn, B.McGree, C.Byrne, S.Geraghty and K.Deacon

M.O’Neill (Capt) A Dalton, J.Nolan, J.Curley, R.Dalton and L Deacon.

The presesntation was made to the winning captain by members of McGree amily who thanked all who participated and those who organised the event each year John and Darren and all who helped out in any way.

IONAD LACHTAIN

St.Lachtains Church Museum and Arts Centre is open every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30am to 4.30pm. .

SPLIT THE POT

Last week’s winner of split the pot was Esther Kennedy who won €340. This month’s split the pot proceeds was in aid of Freshford Coursing Club. Entry cost just €2 and envelopes are available in all local shops and pubs. Please support your local clubs.

KNIT AND KNATTER

Every Wednesday morning in the Loop Cafe there is a Knit and Knatter session from 10am two 11am. Fee is €6 per person which includes tea/coffee and a 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 on 15th September in the Community Hall Lisdowney and continues each Thursday at 7pm. Children from six upward are all welcome.

PARISH NEWS

Mass

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

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB

ALL-STAR NOMINATION

Congratulations to Cian Kenny on being nominated at midfield for the 2024 GAA All-Star awards. Cian earned the nomination on the back of an outstanding year for Kilkenny plying his skills at midfield throughout the 2024 National League, Leinster and All-Ireland championship campaigns. We wish him the best and hope that the nomination will turn into an award when the All-Star team is announced which would bring the club’s total of All-Star award winners to eleven.

MINOR HURLING SEMI-FINAL

Defending minor County champions James Stephens took on Erin’s Own in the championship semi-final played at Dunmore Park on Sunday. The Village lads ran into a four points to one lead after nine minutes with Conor Mc Evoy, a late replacement for the injured Ed McDermott, getting the scoreboard moving with an early free and had added two more before Bill Mc Dermott added the fourth. With strong performances from the Village half back line of Larry Phelan, Sean Deely and Conor Heffernan the supply of ball going into the Village forward line was constant. The ball winning ability of Bill McDermott, Rory Harrison and Jacob Breslin caused the Erin’s Own defence endless problems, with strong support from a dominant midfield pair of Sean Bergin and Ed Lauhoff. By half time the lead had stretched to 7 points on a scoreline of 0-11 to 0-4. The second half continued in the same vein with the Village lads taking most of their chances to extend their advantage to 0-17 to 0-6 by the midway mark. ‘Comer kept trying but the Village defence stood strong from goalkeeper Billy O’ Sullvan and his full back line of Tuan Hyland, Noah Manogue and Darragh Behan in no mood to give up any scoring opportunities. With that, a late penalty for Erin’s Own resulted in a goal. With the final points of the match coming from the stick of Daniel Ring and Ed Lauhoff the final score stood at James Stephens 0-25 to Erin’s Own 1-7. The final, versus Dicksboro, is fixed for Saturday 12th. October. at a time and venue to be decided.

JUNIOR HURLING

In Section B of the JJ Kavanagh Junior Hurling championship James Stephens took on Thomastown on Sunday evening in Bennettsbridge. In the first 15 minutes both sides traded points with the Village scores all coming from play thanks mainly to a pair of points from Mikey Drennan, Oisin Bateman and Sean Deely, in for the injured Shane Guilfoyle, to leave the score at James Stephens 0-6 Thomastown 0-4. Thomastown then scored a goal following a very incisive run through the Village defence leaving just the minimum between us, 0-8 to 1:4. The Village response was positive with Mickey Drennan adding another 3 points from play and a long range free and helped greatly by Sean Casey, Jamie Byrne and James Tyrrell to leave the Village leading at the break on a scoreline of 0:15 to 1:7. On the resumption Thomastown took the game to the Village and had six unanswered points on the board after 12 minutes before Sean Casey settled matters with a great point from play. By the 24th minute James Stephens had opened up a two point gap when Thomastown struck for their second goal from a high dropping ball that was finished to the net that gave them a one point advantage with six minutes to play. Mikey Drennan drew the game level from a free. With defenders Dinny Stapleton, Eoin Deely, Adam O’ Connor and goalkeeper Daniel Power standing firm heading to the final minutes and the teams level on 0:21 to 2:15, substitute Ruairi Harrison, who had played in the minor victory earlier in the day, gathered the sliothar on the 21 meter line and beat two defenders before unleashing a shot to the back of the Thomastown net. This was quickly followed by another long rang point from midfielder James Tyrrell, his second of the day, to leave the final score of Jame Stephens 1:22 Thomastown 2:15. The result brings us into a Section B Junior Final against neighbours O Loughlin Gaels to be played on Saturday 28th. September at 6:15 in Danesfort. The winners of section B will join the three qualifying Junior club teams in the semi-finals of the Junior Championship.

SENIOR CAMOGIE

Our senior ladies contested the league shield final on Saturday evening in Gowran against Young Irelands. Both teams work rate was evident from the off with the Village girls adding the first couple of scores with Hannah Scott, Niamh Deely and Aoife Cantwell providing the launch pad from the half back line. A well worked goal by the Gowran girls drew them level but the Village girls finished the first half strongly with 2pts each from Sophie O’Dwyer and

Roisin Leahy. Half Time 0-7 to 1-1. The second half saw the Gowran girls up the ante and after some pressure on the Village defence brought the game level. The Village girls weren’t going down without a fight and with Emily Smith and Anna Doheny excelling in midfield the Village girls added scores from Sophie O’Dwyer with 2 frees and a great score by Niamh Deely to give a Village a hard-earned victory on a scoreline of 0-12 to 1-5. Apart from those mentioned the fullback line of Niamh Leahy, Michelle Teehan, Emma Gaffney along with goalie Lucy McGrath were solid throughout and Rachel Leahy at centre forward getting through a mountain of work it was a well-deserved win for the clubs first piece of silverware at Senior level. U-16 CAMOGIE

Our U16 team made the short trip to St John’s Park for the championship quarter final reply against city rivals O’ Louglins. Unlike the first game the Village girls set their stall out from the start and well worked points from Maura Barton (1), Laura Leahy (2) set them on their way. A long-range goal from Emily Lauhoff and a brace of frees from Mia Dunne left the half time score at 1-5 to 0-3 in favour of the Village. The O’Loughlin girls came back strong but found strong opposition in the Village half back line of Caoimhe Egan, Aoibh Lawlor and Daisy Coomey. Lucy Coomey worked tirelessly in midfield and when Lucy Lennon found the back of the net which ultimately closed out the match. Final score 2-10 to 1-06.

U12 CAMOGIE

Final day of U12 championship was held on the Kells Road on Saturday morning. Both teams had a great year and have shown massive improvement. The Green team had a great win over city rivals Dicksboro and the red team were beaten by Ballyhale Shamrocks.

CLUB SHOP

Shop supervisor Breda Manogue advises that the Red and Green shop reopens for business on Tuesday evening. The shop has an extensive stock of James Stephens Sports and Leisurewear including the new “Away Jersey”. The shop also has a full stock of “Star” hurleys across the sizes.

BONUS BALL

Congratulations to the winners of the September Bonus Ball, Margo Grace and Breda Ryan, with number 32. Next Draw October 19th

OUTDOOR RECREATION

Rosemary Bergin, Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership, will be conducting a survey to formulate a strategy “to ensure the future of our outdoor spaces are accessible to enjoy and meet the needs of everyone in the county”. Rosemary suggests that it is a great opportunity to share thoughts and help shape how all might experience Kilkenny’s outdoor facilities. For Kilkenny city folk interested in making recommendations the meeting will take place in the Zuni Hotel, Patrick Street on Friday 27th September at 2.30pm. All are welcome. Contact Rosemary at 085 8048137 or in the office at 056 7794383 for further details.

LOTTO

Last week’s numbers were 1, 3, 20, 27. There was no winner. This week’s jackpot will be €18,600. The €40 consolation winners were Denis Lanigan, Mary Tierney, James and Larla, Malcolm Good and Dinny Lanigan.

GOWRAN

GOWRAN AC

Well done to all who travelled to Kilmacow for St.Senans XC Open Day. There was great running from everyone and a good experience for the athletes as they prepare for the Kilkenny Cross Country races in the coming weeks. Kate Hayden had a great race to place 3rd in the U16 Girls, with Martin Desgrandchamps placing 2nd in the Men’s Senior. The men’s senior team was also 2nd with Martin first home followed by James O’Reilly, Joe Bollard, and Adrian Cunningham.

U9 Girls Aoife O’Keeffe Bronze, Roisin Grimley Bronze. U10 Girls, Emma Hayden Bronze Layla Coady. U12 Girls,Orla O’Keeffe. U12 Boys. Darragh Glynn, Henry Sheehan, Sean Cummins, Noah Grimley. U14 Girls, Emily O’Keeffe. Heidi Ryan. Mia Kennedy. U14 Boys Peter Grimley, Matthew Byrne. U16 Girls, Kate Hayden Bronze, Lucy Cunningham. U16 Boys, Michael O’Keeffe. Senior Men (2nd). Martin Desgrandchamps Silver, James O’Reilly, Joe Bollard, Adrian Cunningham

GOWRAN PITCH AND PUTT

Well done to inter club team who qualified today from Leinster in McDonagh Co Kildare. National Final next in Tullamore at end of October.

GOWRAN LITTLE THEATRE

Gowran Little Theatre presents Dancing at Lughnasa by Brian Friel. Directed by Declan Taylor, this is indeed going to be a special production, to book tickets go online now at www.gowranlittletheatre.com

INTERMEDIATES EASE TO VICTORY

In the end it was straightforward but for three quarters of the match it was closely fought between the two neighbours in Clara on Sunday, before a Sean Carey goal put The Gowran men in the driving seat as they ran out 10 point winners. 2-20 to 0-16.

Blacks and Whites deservedly led 0-10 to 0-7 at half-time, as Young Irelands were struggling to make headway against a tight marking and hardworking outfit who were applying a high application and strong work rate.

However, a turning point arrived at the start of the secondhalf as Young Irelands were awarded a penalty that was

Nathan Walsh who finished third in the first junior open of the year in the U15 section.

converted by Sean Carey to bring them level. 1-7 to 0-10. Both Teams exchanged points on four occasions up until the 42nd minute - 1-11 to 0-14 - but Young Irelands began to start turning the screw afterwards with points from Seamus Farrell, Ted Drea and a Sean Carey ‘65 putting them three points ahead entering the final quarter (1-14 to 0-14). They put themselves firmly in the driving seat, with a brilliantly taken goal by Sean Carey in the 51st minute following a long range delivery by his brother Michael. That goal put them 6 points up (2-15 to 0-15), and from there till to the finish it was plain sailing as they outscored Blacks and Whites 0-5 to 0-1 for the remainder of the contest as Sean Carey added three further points to his tally - including two frees - while Tommy Phelan and Ted Drea kept the scoreboard ticking over. A first Semi-Final appearance since 2019, and Young Irelands are on merit with Danesfort awaiting them in The Semi-Finals on the week ending 6th October. Young Irelands - Jason Brennan, Geoff Brennan, Bobbie Brennan, Sean Farrell, Michael Walsh, Michael Carey (Captain) (0-1), Paddy Langton, Killian Carey(0-2), Padraig Naddy (0-1), Jimmy Lennon, Seamus Farrell (0-1), Padraig O’Neill, Sean Carey (2-10 0-8 frees 1-0 penalty 0-1’65), Ted Drea (0-4), Pat Farrell, SUBS: Jim Conlon, Tommy Phelan (0-1), Paddy Brennan MINORS LOSE TO BORO IN THRILLER FOLLOWING BRAVE ATTEMPT

The Young Irelands Minors lost 5-17 to 3-15 against Dicksboro in an 8 goal thriller in The Minor Roinn A Semi-Final at The MW Hire Centre in Dunmore last Saturday. It was a brave effort by the Gowran Minors who fought tooth and nail right to the bitter end, as they trailed by just three points with five minutes remaining.

However, a 5th goal by Dicksboro put the match out of Young Irelands reach who contributed enormously to one of the great Minor matches played.

Dicksboro have been a dominant force at Minor level in recent years having won four in a row from 2019-2022, and for The Gowran Minors to have given their best performance against Dicksboro in Championship Hurling shows the evidence of the great progression that they have showed at underage level.

The Quarter-Final match against League finalists Thomastown will live long in the memory where they came from 10 points down to force a replay, before winning an epic contest in the replay in Thomastown.

Their highly honorable performance against a very good team shows that they belong at Roinn A level, and above all and most importantly they are a respectable force up there competing with Kilkenny’s best.

Meanwhile, Young Irelands Minor Hurling B Team lost 0-25 to 2-10 away to Carrickshock in The Quarter-Final in Hugginstown on Sunday Morning.

SENIORS LOSE TO STRONG VILLAGE OUTFIT IN SHIELD FINAL

The Young Irelands Senior Camogie Team lost out to a very strong James Stephens outfit 0-12 to 1-5 in the Michael Lyng Motors Senior League Shield Final in Gowran on Saturday Evening.

Playing with wind advantage in the opening-half, the village girls led 0-7 to 1-1 at half-time with the Young Irelands goal coming from Steffi Fitzgerald.

The Young Irelands dominated the first 10 minutes of the second-half with points from Ciara O’Keeffe and Steffi Fitzgerald (0-2 0-1 free) bringing them level - 0-7 to 1-4 - but James Stephens steadied the ship as they outscored Young Irelands 0-5 to 0-1 over the final 20 minutes to run out 4 point winners.

It was James Stephens Team backboned by plenty of InterCounty experience with Michelle Teehan, Niamh Deely, Hannah Scott and Sophie O’Dwyer all featuring. Defensively, Young Irelands were solid with Amy Lennon, the returning Mia Murphy and Tiffanie Fitzgerald doing a lot of good work along with Nicole Carter, but the forwards apart from Steffi Fitzgerald struggled to make an impact and improvement will be required ahead of their QuarterFinal clash.

U-14 HURLING

Young Irelands U14 A Team lost their Roinn A Championship Shield Semi-Final 4-17 to 3-8 away to James Stephens on Saturday.

U-12 CAMOGIE

Well done to The Young Irelands U12 girls who finished off their season with a great performance against Lisdowney.

DANNY MULLINS

Danny Mullins teamed up with his Uncle Tom Mullins in Tramore for a double on a glorious Indian Summer evening. They got the ball rolling when C’est Rien owned and bred by Tom’s wife Helen Mullins won The Free Streaming All Racing Handicap Steeplechase, before the double was complete when Kimy upset the long odds on favorite Picture Of You to win The Download The New Tote App Maiden Hurdle.

GRAIGUENAMANAGH

GRAIG NOTES

Should you wish to submit news items, club events, announcements etc you can do so by emailing them to graignotes@outlook.com. Deadline is Saturday 6pm.

LOTTO GAA AND SOCCER

Jackpot numbers which were drawn on 16/09/24 were 17, 23, 28, 30, there was no winner. The following have won €30 each. Nula Barrren, Ann Keating, Val Lonergan, Ann Spinerller, and Ray Healey, Tickets are available from any

club member.

GRAIG TIDY TOWN DRAW

The winners of the draw held on 20thSeptember 2024. were First Priz€430, Statia Heffernan, 2nd Prize € 50 Jenny Butler, 3rd Prize €25 Breda 1 and Breda 2. Money raised through Tidy Towns. The Jackpot will be used to keep the town looking well all the year round. Draw takes place at 4pm on Thursdays.

RAMBLING HOUSE

The Monthly Rambling House Session is on the second Friday of each month in Newtown Hall, where you can enjoy music and song from local artists and also many artists from the surrounding district. The next Session is on Friday October 11th at 8.00 pm.

MASS TIMES FOR DUISKE ABBEY GRAIGUENAMANAGH

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

CEMETERY MASS TINNAHINCH

The Annual Cemetery Mass will be Celebrated At St Micheal’s Cemetery Tinnahinch on Sunday September 29th at 2pm (Weather Permitting)

CLINIC

Cllr Peter Chap Cleere will hold his clinic on Monday evenings From 7.00pm at his office on Main Street Graiguenamanagh.

GORESBRIDGE AND PAULSTOWN

MR WILLIAM HANLON RIP

The death has occurred of William (Billy) Hanlon on the 18th of September 2024 under the wonderful care of the staff at Aut Even Hospital, Kilkenny, peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Predeceased by his sister Eileen Brennan. Beloved husband of Brenda and loving father of Martin, Margaret, Mary, John and William. Billy will be sadly missed by his wife, sons, daughters, 10 grandchildren, brothers Greg, Marty, Jim, daughters-in-law Collette, Jean, Rachel, sons-in-law Sean and Terry, nephews, nieces extended family and friends.

MRS MARGARET KAVANAGH

The death has occurred of Margaret Kavanagh (née Brennan) of Paulstown on September 18th 2024. Margaret (Peg) died peacefully surrounded by her loving family in the wonderful care of Borris Lodge Nursing Home. Predeceased by her husband Andrew (Andy), mother, father, brothers, sisters, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law and grandson. Margaret will be dearly missed by her loving sons Padraig and John, daughter Sheila, daughters-in-law, son-in-law, her much loved grandchildren, brothers Des, Liam and Sean, sistersin-law, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

MEN’S SHED GORESBRIDGE

Would you be interested and available to help set up a ‘Men’s Shed’ in Goresbridge? Alternatively, would you know someone who might be interested or available? If so, phone Tom Healy at 087 9181436. Subject to numbers and interest we are planning on holding an information evening in October with a speaker from one of the men’s sheds in County Kilkenny. The catchment area could include Goresbridge, Paulstown and Gowran.

ACTIVE RETIREMENT

Those interested are invited to a meeting in Paulstown Community Hall on Friday 27th September at 12 midday.

BRIDGE UNITED

Bridge Uniteed won their tie against Highview in the FAI Junior Cup (6 – 2). Bridge scores were taken by Marty Dalton (3), Eoin Kavanagh (2), Tommy Bolger (1).

In the LFA Youths Cup, Bridge United lost to Hanover Harps (3-1). Bridge score was taken by Alex Kenny.

CHURCH SERVICES

Weekend masses will be celebrated in Goresbridge at 7.30pm on Saturday and at 10.00am on Sunday and in Paulstown on Sunday at 11.30am. Weekday mass is at 10am in Paulstown Friday and Tuesday. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament takes place in Paulstown every Tuesday after morning mass and lasts until 6pm.

OUTDOOR

You are invited to take part in an online survey as part of developing the next County Kilkenny Outdoor Recreation Strategy and take part in a public consultation meeting. The new strategy is key to ensuring the future of our outdoor spaces is accessible, enjoyable, and meets the needs of everyone in the county. https://www.surveymonkey. com/r/RJJ37GT

SPLIT THE POT

In aid of Goresbridge Rural Development has gone online. Simply scan the QR code or go to lottoraiser.ie

TAR ISTEACH SHOP

Quality dresses for Autumn/Winter wear as well as cardigans, tops, jumpers, handbags household items are welcome.

YOGA

In Paulstown community hall has started each Monday from 7-8pm. Contact Caroline 087 9371939.

ZUMBA FITNESS Takes place at 7.30pm until the end of October. €10 pay as you go. Dance your cares away, it’s fitness, it’s fun and all are welcome!

DICKSBORO

CLUB LOTTO

Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results 19th September 2024. Nos: 6 21 28 30. Jackpot not won. Draw Prizes, €50: Pat Kenny c/o Paddy Maher. €25 each Ann Brett c/o Online. €25 each Terry c/o Seamus Rochford. €25 each Eddie Corr c/o Jimmy Murphy. Hurlers Co Op Tom Beirne c/o T Beirne. Promotors prize Deirdre O’Reilly

SENIOR CAMOGIE LEAGUE FINAL

Our Senior Team lost out to Piltown in the Senior League Final on a scoreline of 2-12 to 0-12. The quarter finals will now take place weekend of 28th/29th of September, they girls will play Tullaroan with a venue TBC.

GO GAMES

Well done to our fantastic young girls who got to play in UPMC Nowlan Park Saturday at half time of the Senior Camogie League Final. A great experience and thanks to Kilkenny Camogie for organizing it.

MINOR HURLING

The Minor A Team defeated a good Young Irelands Team Saturday morning at MW Hire Dunmore, down by a point at half time the boys came out strong in the second half and goals from Mikey Stynes (P), Thomas Treacy and Brian Moore secured their place in the Minor A County Final in two weeks’ time.

BEST OF LUCK

Best of luck to our u14 and u16 squads and their Management Teams as they will both line out in UPMC Nowlan Park for the Duggan Steel Roinn A County Finals. First up is our u14 Team at 11am followed by our u16 Team at 1pm. We would love to see a huge support in Nowlan Park for the boys.

PALMERSTOWN CLUBHOUSE

Dicksboro Clubhouse Bar is opened every Thursday from

8.30pm. 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.

BALLYRAGGET BALLYOUSKILL

CARDS ARE BACK

Cards are back after the summer break. New players are welcome. The start back date is Friday the 27th of September at 8pm (start time). With the return of cards on the last Friday of the month, the Ballyouskill Hall Committee would like to thank all those who sponsored the prizes for the previous year. Attanagh Post office c/o Julie Dorgan, Midland Grass Machinery, Ballyouskill Welding Supplies, Tom Phelan Plant Hire, Tynan Brothers Contractors, Glenview Plant Hire, Dan Gleeson DGM systems, Daltons Mills Kilkenny, B n R Electrical. Your support is much appreciated #supportloc

CAMOGIE CHAMPIONS

Naomh Brid Camogie U12s defeated Carrickshock in the U12 final.

The Street league takes place this week concluding on the 27th.

ST PATRICK’S GAA

St. Patrick’s minors played Graigue Ballycallan at home on Saturday in a tightly fought contest and narrowly missed out progressing on a scoreline of 2-15 to 1-15. The under 14 side played Kilmacow at home on Sunday winning on a scoreline of 0-16 to 2-9

BINGO

Bingo continues to be held on Wednesday nights in the CYMS Hall at 8pm.

CANCER SUPPORT

Happy Group in Nolan Park

Tom Healy

Section of the girls who played at half time in Nolan park

Community & GAA Notes

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, or to get support. 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 appointment - contact 087-4833941.

MUSIC LESSONS

Traditional Music lessons resumed for kids on Thursday 26th Septmber at Lisdowney Community Centre, County Kilkenny. R95 NN93, with our new Adult Trad music lessons starting the same night. Instruments taught are Tin Whistle, Fiddle, Flute, Banjo, Mandolin, Bodhran, Button Accordian and Concertina. Lessons are €10.00 per night. Lisdowney Traditional Music Group is a not for profit local Community group.

MEN’S SHED

The Men’s Shed continue to meet Tuesday mornings at the GAA pitch and Thursdays in the Cannon Malone hall while they continue to work on their own premises. They will shortly commence a lifestyle course which will include cooking and exercise information. All welcome.

URLINGFORD

EMERALDS URLINGFORD AND GRAINE LOTTO

The numbers drawn for the Lotto on September 16th were 6, 9, 14, 21, bonus no 11. Jackpot winner: Arvydas Zebrauskas, who won €17,800 congratulations Arvydas. Five lucky dips of €20 each: Niall Bowden, Margaret Scully, Mary Burke, Eilish Doyle, Dermot Dunphy. Promoters prize: B. Troy.

SET DANCING

Will resume in Graine Hall on the first Tuesday of October 1 at 8.30pm. Music by Danny Webster. Sets called by Paddy Norton. New members welcome, young and old.

URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT

The September 22nd winner of the Split the Pot is Liam O’Reilly who received €1,746. Congrats Liam on behalf of Urlingford Christmas Lights.

Tickets €2 on sale in participating businesses in town or Revolut 087 9841006. Thanks to everyone for their continued support. Next week’s draw is for Urlingford Christmas Lights.

GRAINE CARDS

Progressive 25 card game are taking place in Graine Hall every Wednesday night at 8.30pm sharp. All are welcome.

COIS NORE

Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre Kilkenny has the 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, Urlingford in the morning from 10 am to 12 pm. Please do not hesitate to drop or, for an appointment contact 087-4833941.

URLINGFORD / GRAINE DEFIBRILLATOR GROUP

In case of emergency, call: 085 2726396. Write this number down

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 Driving Theory/Driving lessons starting soon, 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.

DEFIBRILLATOR

There is a defibrillator located in the Mill FRC if and when it may be required.

APPEAL FOR CLOTHES DONATIONS

Any clothes donations would be greatly appreciated in aid of our counselling/play therapy services. Donations can be dropped off during our opening hours. Please call before dropping off.

JOBS – TRAINING BOARD

We have a Jobs Board, feel free to call in and take a look, we also offer help and support with CV’s and cover letters if required.

For further information please contact us here at the Centre on 056-8838466.

JOHNSTOWN

KIDS CAMP FOR HALLOWE’EN

A kids camp for Halloween will be held in St Kieran’s Hall on Oobert 29th and 30th from 10am to 2pm ages 5 to 13 years with local art teacher Aaliyah Stapleton and local artist Louise Walsh. Contact Louise on 0851150715 or Aaliyah on 0857449496.

BRIDGE

The Freshford Bridge Club is held each Monday Night in Tulla Hall at 7.30pm. Classes for beginners can be arranged if there are sufficient numbers.

SYMPATHY

Sympathy is extended to the Phelan Family, Pinchback, Galmoy, the McGree family, Lisdowney and Fr. Tom McGree on the untimely death of his nephew Marcus Phelan, Dublin and Roscommon.

Sympathy also to John and Marie Wilson and family, Canal Road, who have been bereaved by the death of John’s mother Sheila, Clogh, Castlecomer.

FR. TONY LITTLE C.S.Sp. (RIP)

The death has taken place of Fr. Tony Little C.S.Sp, Kimmage Manor, Dublin and Johnstown, son of the late Bridie (Murphy) and Sean Little. Fr. Tony’s father Sean was sergeant in Johnstown Garda Station, (he died suddenly in Lourdes where he is interred). Fr. Tony is survived by his sister Clare, relatives and friends and was laid to rest in Dardistown Cemetery after Funeral Mass in the Holy Spirit Parish Church, Kimmage Manor, Dublin.

SET DANCING

Set dancing will resume in Graine Hall on Tuesday Oct 1st at 8.30pm. Music by Danny Webster and sets called by Paddy Martin. All welcome.

KILKENNY OUTDOOR RECREATION STRATEGY

Do you enjoy walking, swimming ,kayaking or spending time outdoors, KRSP would like to hear your thoughts and to that end there will be meetings for North Kilkenny in Zuni, Kilkenny Sept 27th at 2.30pm and in Castlecomer Community Hall on the same day at 7pm.

SPA UNITED AFC

The weekend results Junior League Division 1 East End 5

Spa 1, U15 boys League Division 2 Spa 1 Deen Celtic 3, U15 girls League Division 1 Spa 2 Evergreen 2, U13 boys League Division 1 Spa 1 East End 1, U12 boys League Division 2A Spa 1 Highview Ath. 5.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO

The winning numbers 4,5,6,22. Congratulations to the local winner of the jackpot.

GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE

Eucharistic Adoration

Glengoole Wednesday 10am to 2pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 10am to 1pm. The rosary is recited before Mass in Glen-

goole every Saturday evening.

CELTIC BROTHERS

Celtic Brothers are in concert in Thurles Cathedral this Friday 27th September. Tickets available from the Parish Centre, Bookworm and Holycross Abbey Shop. All proceeds to the Cathedral Reroofing Project.

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.

LEGION OF MARY

Cashel Curia Legionaries will be visiting the parish this Saturday 28th September from 2.30pm - 4pm.

MEN ON THE MOVE CLASSES

Men On The Move Classes will take place every Monday morning 11:15 - 12:15 in Millenium Family Resource Centre Glengoole. Gentle fitness with a focus on Men’s Health, Nutrition Advice, Maintaining Mobility Levels and Positive Ageing. To book contact Alice at 083 1014313

YOGA CLASSES

Yoga classes is taking place on Monday’s and Wednesday’s from 7-8pm in Gortnahoe Community Hall. 4 week block €50 or €15 drop in fee. Booking essential, contact Jenny via text/Whatsapp 0879420826.

GORTNAHOE BINGO

A sincere thanks to the large attendance who came to the anniversary bingo last Saturday evening. The committee appreciated the support from the parish and surrounding counties. Bingo continues this Saturday evening at 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm. Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game.

SPLIT THE POT

Congratulations to Biddy Coady, Gortnahoe, who won €189 in the Split the Pot draw last Sunday. Envelopes are available at the usual outlets, you can also Revolut to 0876777220. For the month of September Split the Pot will be in support of Ballysloe Community Group. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

GORTNAHOE COMMUNITY EMPLOYMENT SCHEME

Is looking to recruit a full-time paid supervisor. Details of the position and application are on Jobs Ireland. Participant vacancies on the scheme for Caretaker, Maintenance Operative and Eldercare Kitchen Assistants are also on Job Ireland.

CONAHY

HURLING

The intermediate hurlers’ fate for 2025 will be decided on Saturday at 2.30 p.m. in Páirc Sheamuis Stiopháin when they face Carrickshock in the Michael Lyng Motors IHC Relegation final. The loser will drop down to the junior grade in 2025, so this is a must win game for Conahy. All support for the team would be appreciated and best of luck to all involved.

The minor hurlers enjoyed a hard fought win away to Mullinavat in their Roinn D championship quarter-final on Saturday afternoon last. An early goal from Daniel Mooney was a boost for Conahy, but the home side fought back well to reduce the deficit as the first half progressed. It wasn’t until the final quarter that Conahy managed to open up some breathing space, with two goals from Eoin Dunne and Finn Sherman ensuring a 3-13 to 1-12 victory for the locals. Conahy will now face Carrickshock in the semi-final, with the time and venue to be confirmed at the time of writing.

TEAM: Tommy Mulhall, Tadhg Hennessy, Conor Hennessy, Ben Duggan (Capt.), Harry Lawlor, Jack Rhatigan, Patrick Kennedy, Darragh Horgan, Andrew O’Connor, Evan Staunton, John Kennedy, Eoin Dunne, Rory Rhatigan, Daniel Mooney, Jake Dooley. Subs.: Finn Sherman, Billy Rowe.

CAMOGIE

The intermediate camogie girls had a good win over St. Lachtain’s in the Intermediate League Shield Final in Freshford on Sunday last. An Amy Brennan goal helped Conahy to a 1-8 to 0-4 half time lead, and some good points throughout the second half saw Conahy secure a 1-18 to 1-4 win. The Conahy girls will now look towards a championship quarter-final this coming weekend - the details were not confirmed at the time of writing.

TEAM: Niamh Delaney, Caoimhe Hennessy, Sofia Kerr, Aislin Comerford, Aisling Maher, Roisín Phelan, Amy Morrissey, Danielle Morrissey, Katie Brennan, Emma Mulhall, Ellen Gunner, Aisling Downey, Hollie Brennan, Grace Mulhall, Amy Brennan.

A big day lies ahead for the under-14 camogie girls when they play host to Clara in the County Shield Final on Saturday next at 10.30 a.m. in Jenkinstown. Best of luck to all involved, and all support for the girls would be welcome.

GREYHOUND NIGHT

Many thanks to everyone in the locality who supported and attended the Greyhound Night in St. James Park on Friday last, organised by Conahy Shamrocks GAA and Conahy Shamrocks Camogie Club. It was heartening to see such a large crowd from the parish attending on the night. All funds raised will go towards the future development of the Polo Grounds in Jenkinstown.

CLUB LOTTO

The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Club Lotto were 9, 24 and 26. There was no jackpot winner, so the consolation prize winners were Diarmuid Healy, Eamonn and Ann Delaney, Paddy and Kate Rafter, Holly Walsh and

Matty Brennan. The promoter prize winners were Toddy Lacey, Nora Delaney and David Maher. This week’s jackpot now increases to €3,200. Many thanks to everyone who supports the GAA Club Lotto.

BRIDGE

Conahy Bridge Club resumed lastnight (Thursday, September 26th) in Conahy Hall at 7.30 pm. New members welcome.

COIS NORE CANCER SUPPORT

Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre Kilkenny have an Outreach Service 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 in the morning from 10 am to 12 pm at Dr Hogan’s Rooms, The Square in Ballyragget. Please do not hesitate to drop or, for an appointment contact 087-4833941. Cois Nore Outreach is also available in Castlecomer on Monday mornings at The Old Courthouse, Kilkenny Street, Castlecomer from 10 am to 12pm.

HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET STONEYFORD).

MASS TIMES

Hugginstown, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m. Vigil – Saturday at 8.00p.m. Sunday at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford, Wednesday at 7.00p.m. Vigil – Saturday at 6.30p.m. Friday 27th. Feast of St. Vincent de Paul. PRAY FOR Anniversary Masses, The Kelly Family, Lawcus, Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 28th. September at 6.30p.m. Toddy Tennyson, Mabbistown, Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday 28th. September at 8.00p.m. ROTA (26TH. SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME) Readers, Stoneyford, Saturday 6.30p.m. Tony Roche: Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Tommy Murphy; Sunday 10.00a.m. Deirdre O’Shea. Eucharistic Ministers, Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Bernie Grace. Hugginstown, Saturday 8.00p.m. Mary Cuddihy, Sunday 10.00a.m. Lillian Carr. ST. MARY’S CATHEDRAL RESTORATION FUND DRAW: The first draw for St. Mary’s Cathedral Restoration Fund 2024/2025 took place on Wednesday 25th.September 2024. The draw year 2024/20225 will run from September 2024 to August 2025. Draw will be held at 8.00p.m on the last Wednesday of each month. Tickets are available at the Parish House, Hugginstown: Telephone contact 056 776 8693. All Tickets to be bought by Monday 23rd. September if you wish to be part of the First Draw on Wednesday 27th. Subscription €10.00 per month. Prize Money €5,000.00 per month.

Roman Catholic Diocese and Parishes of Ossory - Registered Charity No. 20015831

COFFEE MORNING:

A coffee morning in aid of Waterford Hospice will be held in Mullinavat Community Centre on Saturday the 28th. September from 10.00a.m. to 1.00p.m. All support gratefully appreciated. All money raised locally stays locally. FAITH SEEKING UNDERSTANDING

A Course over the winter months in St. Kieran’s College to allow people the opportunity to understand their Faith. The course is free; Further information from 056 776 8693 or email afd@ossory.ie.

LOTTO

Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 16th. September 2024. Numbers: 23; 31; 12; 26.No Winner First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner: €30.00. Winners, Mary T. Power, Rathduff. Ber Doyle, Ballintee Adrian Hudson, “On Line”. Paddy Egan, Dunnamaggin. Eugene O’Neill “On Line”. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers), Caitlin Roche; John Power, Deirdre Rohan.

OLDER PEOPLES INFORMATION SERVICE

Kilkenny Older Peoples Council has arranged a series of information presentations, to be professionally provided, for people aged 55 and over, in the Mayfair Library, Parliament Street, Kilkenny. The Presentation given by (Kilkenny County Council Consultants). on “Kilkenny Age Friendly Strategy for next 5 years”; on Friday 27th. September. Time 11.00a.m. to 1.00p.m. There will be plenty of time for questions and answers and a cup of tea. Booking is not required. When there, why not avail of an opportunity to see the new modern. Library facilities that Kilkenny has to offer? All are welcome.

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

A Lecture on “Murder and Justice in 19th. Century Kilkenny” will be given by Donal Cadogan on Friday, 27th. September at 8.00p.m. in Mullinavat Parish Hall. All are welcome. LORETO SECONDARY SCHOOL

First Year Enrolment for September 2025. The closing date for applications for First Year places is Tuesday 22nd. October 2024. Applications can be made via the school website www.loretokk.ie. Further information will be on their website at www.loretokk.ie

Naomh Brid Camogie the U12s defeated Carrickshock in the U12 final

Kilkenny Sport Focus

Michael O’Leary

Danielle Morrissey

Last week, Danielle Morrissey was nominated for Intermediate Camogie Player of the Year following her outstanding performances in helping Kilkenny reach the All-Ireland Final.

Unfortunately for Danielle and her Kilkenny teammates, they suffered heartbreak in losing the All-Ireland Final by a point to Cork, but her efforts throughout the year have seen her rewarded for her performances, as she returned to action earlier in the year following a lengthy lay-off.

Following a disappointing League campaign, Danielle's return to action improved Kilkenny's fortunes greatly and they went on a winning run during the group stages of the Championship, before

BY PAUL BOLGER

Exercise goes far above and beyond giving us stronger muscles and healthier hearts – it plays a key role in maintaining a healthy chemical balance within our brain and body. A lot of us have experienced the moodboosting effects of exercise, but have you ever considered why it has such potent effects on our general wellbeing? Your mood, energy levels and motivation rely heavily on the balance of chemicals (neurotransmitters and hormones) in your body, particularly those acting in your brain.

Feeling Good

People get into exercise for various reasons – from wanting to lose weight, to improving health and meeting new people. But the main reason that people stick with exercise is often the same – it makes them feel better. Chemicals in the brain play a key role in this.  Serotonin is one such chemical. It has many different effects within the body – one such effect is as a mood booster, giving a sense of wellbeing. Serotonin also plays a role in memory, as well as many other processes in the brain and body.

Exercise, whether lifting weights, dancing, swimming or

qualifying for an All-Ireland Semi-Final showdown with Kerry in Semple Stadium, Thurles.

Danielle was Player of The Match in Kilkenny's epic two point victory (2-14 to 2-12) against the Kingdom that went to extra-time as she scored 0-9(0-4 frees).

She was Kilkenny's goalscorer in the All-Ireland Final against Cork as they held a two point lead heading towards the final 10 minutes, but a late Cork rally denied Kilkenny as they came up short by a solitary point.

Danielle plays her Club Camogie with Conahy Shamrocks and she won the Camogie Skills competition at the Féile na nGael in 2013, and she would progress onto the Inter-County set-up over

Exercise changes your brain chemistry

Motivation, mood and pain can all be improved with regular exercise - brain chemistry is part of the reason this happens

the next few years before making her Senior InterCounty debut in 2017.

She was captain of the Kilkenny Team that won the Leinster Minor Championship in 2017 after Conahy Shamrocks won their first Minor Roinn A title the previous year in 2016, while also in 2017 she was named in the starting 15 and scored a point as Kilkenny defended their National League title with victory against Cork.

Unfortunately for Danielle and her Kilkenny Teammates, they suffered heartbreak as a winning point deep into stoppage time by Julia White gave Cork the O'Duffy Cup.

However, the year would end on a high for Danielle as she gave a Player Of The Match performance to inspire Conahy Shamrocks to win the Junior Final against Blacks and Whites.

Danielle scored 3-11 in an exceptional individual performance as part of an exceptional team performance, as the Conahy girls made amends for losing the final to Young Irelands Gowran the previous year.

jogging, helps to regulate a healthy balance of serotonin in each of us.

Motivating

Finding the motivation to exercise can be a challenge, particularly for people who are inactive. But did you know that

exercise promotes the release of a chemical in the brain that can supercharge motivation?

Dopamine is often thought of as a mood enhancing chemical, but it seems to predominantly affect motivation. Instead of acting as a reward in the brain,

dopamine acts to drive us towards obtaining a reward – it motivates us. The gambling industry knows this well –dopamine levels spike when playing games of chance in casinos. This is part of the reason why gambling can be so addictive.

Many anti-depressant drugs act by increasing dopamine in the brain. Feeling unmotivated, sluggish and stagnant is common in depression, and an imbalance of dopamine plays a role in some people. Exercise helps to give us a dopamine boost and promotes a healthier

She made a late appearance as a substitute as Kilkenny won the National League Final against Cork in 2018 in Nowlan Park, but further disappointments followed in The All-Ireland Finals in 2018 and 2019.

However, 2020 was a year to remember on the playing field as Danielle was part of the Conahy Shamrocks team that won the Intermediate Camogie Final against St. Annes, while she was part of the Kilkenny Panel that won The O'Duffy Cup following three consecutive years of All-Ireland Finals defeat.

Having returned to the Inter-County set-up last year, disaster struck as she suffered a cruciate ligament injury in June of last year while playing with the County Seniors, but she bounced back a year on from that setback and she proved that she lost none of her sharpness from previously.

With her outstanding performances for the Kilkenny Intermediates this year resulting in a Player of the Year nomination, a recall to the County Seniors is an increasing possibility ahead of 2025.

balance of dopamine in our system.

Pain Relieving

Anyone who has experienced the wonderful sense of wellbeing during a “runners’ high” can thank another group of chemicals that exercise promotes – endorphins. Endorphins are the body’s very own pain relievers (the word endorphin means “endogenous morphine” i.e. morphine created within our own body). This might partially explain why exercise can become so additive!

Regular exercise can be an effective way to manage persistent pain. Shifting us towards a healthier balance of endorphins and other similar chemicals in the brain and body is one of the reasons why exercising helps those suffering from chronic or persistent pain.

Two other ways to promote endorphin release include meditation and laughter – so don’t forget to get your daily dose of laughs, it’s good for your health!

Practical Tips:

• When lacking motivation, a bout of exercise can give you a boost

• Exercise regularly to help to relieve pain, particularly persistent pain (work with a qualified exercise specialist like a physiotherapist if you find it difficult or painful to exercise)

• Fit exercise into your day for a boost in mood and energy –without negative side effects

Hurling matters - St Canice’s Credit Union Kilkenny Senior Championship Quarter-Finals

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Four intriguing encounters lie ahead this weekend as the St Canice’s Credit Union Kilkenny Senior Championship reaches the QuarterFinal stage. Current Tom Walsh cup holders, O’Loughlin Gaels are in action on Sunday in UPMC Nowlan Park as part of a double header that see’s surprise packages, Mullinavat and Erin’s Own get things underway at 1:30pm, with the clash of Dicksboro and the County champions two hours later. Ahead of Sunday’s double bill, Saturday has two mouth-watering clashes of its own, which begins in Callan with the meeting of Thomastown and Shamrocks Ballyhale (Throw-in 1:30pm). Later tomorrow afternoon, Tullaroan will face-off against Bennettsbridge in what could be a real shoot-out in Castlecomer, (Throw-in 4:30pm).

THOMASTOWN & SHAMROCKS

So, first up is the Thomastown vs Shamrocks clash in John Locke Park. Noel Doherty’s charges had settled in to life at the top table of club hurling on Noreside, and looked every inch a seasoned senior side, but a trio of defeats on the bounce have sharpened the focus of the current All-Ireland Intermediate champions. Having started their campaign well, the Town have suffered losses to Glenmore, Dicksboro and most recently Mullinavat in the shield final. As usual, much will depend on the performance of All-Star nominee, John Donnelly. Undoubtably one of the best hurlers on the island over the last 12 months, the Kilkenny star will want to continue his brilliant form and push his club as far as possible Fellow Donnelly’s, Stephen and Robbie will also need to keep the scoreboard ticking over for their side and will relish the prospect of tackling the illustrious Shamrocks Ballyhale. Thomastown have a great mix of youth and experience, and are led brilliantly by Peter McDonald from midfield. The energetic Connellan’s, Luke and Peter will bring plenty of drive to the team, as will the dynamic Zach Bay Hammond.

No Quarter given!

Eight teams bid for last four spots

Tomorrow’s opponents will know the threat that Thomastown pose as they seek to get back to the top on Noreside. It’s been somewhat of a stuttering season for Shamrocks, and they had to dig deep last time out against The Village to avoid the relegation decider. Richie Reid referenced this after they win over

Brian Cody’s team, and talked about how TJ and Adrian Mullen were just two of the players that took to the field with injuries to help out, when ordinarily they would have sat the game out, but needs must, and both those players will hopefully be all the better for the rest before this weekend’s quarter final.

Two players that impressed against James Stephens were Killian Corcoran and Niall Shortall. The former was a real presence in the engine room while the latter showed real class in his movement and score taking. The

nippy forward was a constant thorn in The Village defence and that performance should give him plenty of confidence ahead of the Thomastown clash. With Joey Holden back in the fold at full back and Colin Fennelly racking up the air miles to and from Dubai, James Meagher has probably as strong a hand to choose from as he’s had this season. Paddy Mullen also put in a decent shift in the last round, and hit a couple of booming scores also, and his presence could be vital in Callan tomorrow afternoon. Eoin Cody looked very

sharp and took a couple of good scores and will face another battle against Noel Doherty’s defensive unit. Shamrocks half back line looks strong and they will hope that this trio continues to hurl with authority and class.

TULLAROAN & BENNETTSBRIDGE Canon Kearns Park will provide the setting for the encounter between Bennettsbridge and Tullaroan. Both these

sides will have design’s on making a county final and as mentioned, this could be a real shoot-out. When the ‘Bridge click, they can be an awesome outfit, but clicking on a consistent basis has been a big problem for Tim Dooley’s panel. With a spine of Blanchfield’s running through the side, they also have a sporting chance in games. County star David usually operates from the’6’ position and keeps a close on all things defensively, while hitting the long range free’s and is more than adept at striking over from distance in open play.

Gearoid Dunne showing great control

Liam Blanchfield shows his skill as he takes control from Niall Mullins and Andy Parsons

Hurling matters - St Canice’s Credit Union Kilkenny Senior Championship Quarter-Finals

Kevin has been one of the standout midfielders in the county for the last couple of seasons, which has earned him some minutes in the black and amber. There will definitely be more intercounty appearances to come. The eldest of the brothers, Liam will cause problems for most defences and brings a real physical presence and a goal scoring threat. His experience will be vital in the clash with The Sash.

Don’t be fooled, there’s more to this Bridge side than the Blanchfield’s. There are a couple of Cleere’s that know where the

rearguard and will not give an inch to his man, who will know whose marking him. Keeping Shane Walsh company in the attacking third will be a quartet of scoring forwards, that have shown plenty so far this season. Led by Mossy Keoghan, who is always buzzing round annoying defenders, he has the young and talented Dylan Simpson and Gearoid Dunne and the more experienced John Walton, providing an equal dose of menace. Simpson, especially has been thriving under Ken Coogan during this campaign and will certainly test the ‘Bridge defence tomorrow. Those in attendance in Castlecomer will be in for a treat if both teams play to form.

MULLINAVAT & ERIN’S OWN

posts are, and in Nicky, they have a reliable placed ball specialist. The ‘other’ midfielder is usually Hugh O’Neill and he is another that loves to tag on a score or two and is the perfect partner for Kevin Blanchfield. Other prominent attacking threats include Sean Morrissey and Ciaran Brennan, both will also relish the physical tussle with Padraig Walsh and co. Get past The Sash defence, and one of the most impressive netminders this season, Paull Buggy awaits, and he has been terrific in the games to date. This Bennettsbridge side

are in decent shape, thanks to Dan Shanahan’s training and will still be motoring at the long whistle.

Tullaroan have been maturing as the season progresses. Like The ‘Bridge, The Sash are built around the Walsh’s. Padraig rules the roost from centre back and despite retiring from the county scene, is still one of the classiest hurler’s on Noreside and is normally good for a score. Shane is a real talent and one of the main scorers in this exciting team, both from the placed ball and play. Current Kilkenny defender, Tommy adds some muscle to the

Sunday’s first action at headquarters see’s senior league shield winners, Mullinavat take on Erin’s own.

The Vegas Boys have been a real breath of fresh air and don’t look to have any inferiority complex about them. They don’t care for bigger, more prominent, successful opponents, they just play what’s in front of them. On Sunday it’s the men from ‘Comer that will be in opposition to Colm O’Beirne’s outfit. His opposite number, Joseph O’Callaghan has somehow pulled Erin’s Own from the seemingly inevitable relegation final to this last eight clash.

The ‘Vat will look to key men Ger Malone, John Walsh and Oisin Knox as they try to reach the last four. In their shield victory over Thomastown, Malone and Knox shared 0-12, while Joe Gahan (0-5), Adam Mansfield (1-1) and Conor Walsh (0-3) contributed magnificently to their win. Erin’s Own defied the odds to send Glenmore to the relegation decider and hit an impressive 5-14 in the game held at Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan. The scoring of Jack Buggy (2-6); Michael Brennan (2-1); Chris Korff (1-1) and Conor McMahon (0-3) saw O’Callaghan’s charges make quarter finals and, they will fancy their chances of progressing, especially with stalwarts, Conor’s Fogarty and Delaney ploughing their furrow for the cause.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS & DICKSBORO

The last of the quarter final battles, and the second part of Sunday’s doubleheader see’s the Tom Walsh holders and seemingly rampant O’Loughlin Gaels pit their wits against Dicksboro. No doubt, Michael Walsh and his management team will have been working on a plan to try and stifle O’Loughlin’s, but it looks to be a tall order for the Palmerstown outfit. Their opening round win over Graigue Ballycallan will have given them some confidence ahead of this tussle, but in truth, Dicksboro were home and hosed by the short whistle. Cillian Buckley was in commanding form for the men in maroon, while Harry Shine (0-7), Matthew Kelleher (1-2); Cillian Hackett (0-4) and Liam Moore (0-3) all put in impressive shifts as they ran out 13-point winners in Freshford.

Brian Hogan’s troops are unbeaten entering Sunday’s clash, and he will be hoping his side continue to show the hunger and desire to defend their Tom Walsh crown, and this last eight game is another step on that journey for the St John’s Park team. The first piece of silverware was collected when they put Tullaroan to the sword in the league final, but as the saying goes, ‘The league’s for playing, the championship’s for winning’. Luke Hogan and Owen Wall were hugely impressive for the champions, while their newest recruit, Fionnán Mackessy put in his best display in the Gaels jersey to date.

The likes of Paddy Deegan, Huw Lawlor and Mikey Butler will all be determined to get another crack at All-Ireland club glory, and will remain focused on getting over the various hurdles in their quest to do so. Their strength in depth looks to be a major factor in the consistency of displays, and the likes of Conor Kelly, Paddy Butler and Eoin O’Shea coming off the bench is a vital weapon in their arsenal.

Good luck to all eight teams this weekend, we’re lucky to have such a cracking, competitive championship that will no doubt throw up some fascinating headlines for next week!

Fionan Mackessy gets away from Michael Malone

Stephen Donnelly Blasts home Thomastowns First Goal as Timmy Kelly attempts to Stop him

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning notices

Planning permission sought for change of use from former convent to administration and training centre, including alterations to existing car park layout, provision of additional carparking spaces and ancillary related works at Reviewfields, Kells Road, Kilkenny.

Applicant: SOS Kilkenny Housing Association

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. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Architects: BLUETT & O’DONOGHUE www.boda.ie

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Michael Hennessy intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Planning Permission to retain existing leanto timber shed to the side of existing dwelling house and all associated site development works at 44 Clonkil, Callan, Co. Kilkenny R95 YD83.

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.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Take notice that we intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for planning permission to construct a 53 m2 single story extension to the existing dwelling and all associated site works on lands at The Yellow House, Dungarvan, 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: Sylvia and Eamon McLoughlin

PAT O’NEILL 2ND

In loving memory of Pat O’Neill, late of 38 Castle Avenue, Thomastown, whose anniversary occurs on 4th October.

Gone are the days we used to share

But in our hearts you are always there

The gates of memory will never close

We miss you more than anyone knows With tender love and deep regret

We who love you will never forget

Sadly missed by all his family

Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 6th October at 10.30am in The Church of the Assumption, Thomastown.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.B.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Must promise publication of prayer. N.F.

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. 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. 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. 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. A.S.

ANNIVERSARY