55 minute read
Travel & Leisure
PART 1 OF A SERIES 1. London
London isn t known for having the best weather in the world but when the sun shines and you’re on the ames any city in the world would be hard pressed to beat beautiful London. When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life is the famous quote from Samuel Johnson. London is home to some of the world s most famous landmarks from Buckingham Palace to the just recently refurbished Big Ben to Westminster Abbey and well we could go on and on. ere are 35 di erent bridges in London along the ames from the beautiful pastel coloured Albert Bridge to world famous Tower Bridge. Experience some of the best art in the world at the Royal Academy, the Tate, Tate Modern, National Gallery and many more such institutions.
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A key part of London’s beauty is its lovely parks beloved by its residents. London has 3,000 parks and believe it or not 40% of the city is green. Hyde Park is the best known but don t miss stunning Richmond Park and its deers and views over London and gorgeous Holland Park.
Head o the beaten path and explore London s street art scene in the East, take a rubbish tour and see lesser known green spots such as the Isle of Dogs, visit the coloured houses of Notting Hill or enjoy a gourmet meal on a London bus whilst experiencing fantastic views of the city.
2. Paris
e city of lights, the city of love, whichever name you want to call it, love it or hate it there is no doubt that Paris is absolutely beautiful.
Sunrise in Paris from the Trocadero Fountains
Paris, of course, is known for its famous landmarks like the Ei el Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, Louvre etc. However, what makes Paris beautiful is the charm and detail in its 20 arrondissements. Cobblestone streets, beautiful buildings, atmospheric cafes with wicker outdoor chairs arranged just so it is the combination of these details that gives the average Paris street so much charm. e Seine River and its beautiful bridges are critical elements of Paris beauty. Indeed there are 37 bridges in Paris, more than the bridges in London, and one of the best ways to enjoy Paris is a cruise under those bridges on the Seine.
Although only 10% of Paris is green, when it is green it is stunning. From the Jardin du Luxembourg to Jardin des Tuileries to the Interior Garden at the Petit Palais Paris does a garden well.
Paris is at its most beautiful rst thing in the morning and heading into the evening as the light softens and changes and bathes this beautiful city in a glow. Sunrise in Paris, as well as the sunset in Paris, are not to be missed.
3. Rome
With over 280 fountains and more than 900 churches alone Rome is fully equipped with enough architectural landmarks to earn a spot on this list. en add the Colosseum, the Vatican and the Pantheon plus all the other signi cant buildings in this city and you have a shoe in for any list of the most beautiful cities in the world.
It often seems like Rome has enough spectacular buildings and tourist attractions in each block to support a separate city. However, like Paris much of the beauty of Rome is in the details
It is in the cobblestone streets, the beautiful Piazzas, a Vespa perfectly posed next to an ancient building and of course the beautiful inhabitants of Rome.
And don t miss some of Rome s beautiful neighbourhoods like Trastavere and Parioli for a quieter but just as atmospheric Roman experiences.
Norway is a great place to visit in the summer since the midnight sun o ers almost 24 full hours of daylight, but you don’t want to miss the magic of a winter cruise when the Northern Lights take over the sky and the snow turns everything into a fairy tale scene. It’s a completely di erent experience and one of my all-time favourite trips.
Even if your dream cruise involves lying on a ship deck in your bathing suit, don’t let the cold weather stop you. Here are 10 reasons you should buy yourself a warm jacket and book this winter wonderland of a cruise right now.
Seeing the northern lights tops so many travelers’ wish lists and, although there are no guarantees, chances are you’ll get to experience them on this itinerary. In fact, I think every passenger got at least a glimpse of them on the cruise I was on. You can even sign up to get a phone call in the middle of the night if there’s a sighting so you can head outside.
Because the route takes you so far north, crossing into the Arctic Circle and visiting places like Tromso and Alta – considered some of the best sites for viewing the aurora borealis – there are endless opportunities to catch those glorious dancing lights on both land and sea. Many of the activities and shore excursions are actually designed around that goal but are just as enlightening on their own. Even on sea days, though, you’ll get to enjoy Norway’s gorgeous scenery from the comfort of the ship, whether you head out on the decks to search for northern lights at night or just admire the snow-covered views from your stateroom’s oor- to-ceiling windows during the day. e Igloo Hotel is one of the most unusual hotels in the world, and you can spend a night there.
Tour the hotel, which is lled with creative ice sculptures, and enjoy a drink in a glass made of ice before settling in to your ‘bed’ which is surprisingly cozy, thanks to reindeer hides and a double layer of down sleeping bags. Don’t worry if you have to get up to use the restroom in the middle of the night. It’s located in the warm building next door and, because there’s so little light pollution, the northern lights just may illuminate the way.
What better way to enjoy the beautiful Norwegian landscape than on a sled pulled by huskies? ese dogs aren’t just cute, though. ey’re fast and hardworking, and they’ll happily take you on the ride of your life.
You’ll be given warm weather gear to bundle up in before getting comfortable in the sled and letting an experienced musher take the reins.
Afterwards, you’ll want to take sel es with your new furry friends.
Your guide to the great cities of the world
4. Sydney
Consider a winter cruise in Norway
ere is a clear rivalry between Melbourne and Sydney, with each city s inhabitants sure that their city is superior.
Whilst Melbourne is of course the superior city, we cannot deny that when it comes to beauty Sydney does it as well as most other cities in the world. e heart of Sydney is its harbour and its two iconic Australian landmarks, the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Sydney Harbour is extraordinarily pretty and often sparkles, particularly at sunset.
Sydney is a true waterside city that was built around the harbour and the desire for harbour views. Sydney ferries move inhabitants around town in what must be one of the loveliest commutes in the world.
Sydney is, of course, famous for its beaches. Bondi Beach is its most iconic beach and it really does have lovely sand plus some great restaurants. Many of the other best places to visit in Sydney are based around the water and beaches from Manly to Watsons Bay and many more. e most beautiful place in Sydney is the Bondi to Coogee coastal path. is is one of the most famous walks in the world for good reason. Virtually every step provides jaw-dropping scenery.
From the ridiculously photogenic Bondi icebergs pool at the Bondi end to the Waverley cemetery with a view to end all views to lovely Coogee this is a walk you won t forget.
5. Venice
Canals, waterways and bridges are a bit like good bone structure when it comes to making a city beautiful. And Venice has a lot of all three of those. Venice is actually 117 di erent islands that are linked by 150 canals and about 400 bridges or pieces of pavement.
Venice is literally built on water. e base of its buildings go deep into the ground. As the soil is so water logged there is no oxygen in it and thus no decay.
Venice and its delights are best explored on foot or by water. e Piazza San Marco is the centre of Venice and home to the magni cent Basilica San Marco which also has some fantastic views of Venice.
Don’t miss the Rialto Bridge, the many Venetian Palaces, the Accademia Gallery and the Bridge of Sighs. Or a trip to the home of beautiful coloured glass Murano.
Continues next week
In these times of constant doom-talk, it’s nice to go back to youthful days, simpler times, and think of the bonds between country people and their dogs. e canine pal back then had a useful part to play in human lives, be it fetching idle-minded cows for milking, keeping manners on deceitful and deadly bulls, or the chasing down of the tasty bunny, who gave his little life {unwillingly} so that we could continue ours in some kind of a vertical state.
Somehow, when there was no TV or fancy gadgets – or even a wireless – the links were that much stronger, as there was no better playmate than the faithful madra.
But no matter how much a ection, their life term was shorter than ours, so we often lost them when we most loved them. Such is life and fate.
But like a shooting star in the dark, the shortest love often burned brightest, and contained a great happiness that is remembered as fondly as long summer days in the woods and elds and rivers………….
Many years ago {about seventy ve of the wretched things!} I was working for Mick Costello – a good amiable farmer. He had a great mare, who had foaled a horse that went on to win a huge race in England called the {Caesarwich?} or some name like that. e name of this ying gee-gee might have been Blu King. Anyway, he was owned by a Lord Bicester, with whom Mick was friendly. is racing horse’s daddy lived up at Kilvemnon Stud, near Mullinahone, in Tipp. So, when the mare became a bit frisky, and her delightful little equine thoughts turned to matters romantic, I was given the job of leading her up there, from Goodwinsgarden. A fair oul trip, but nothing much in those days.
We walked along, the two of us, with not many alarms from cars, as they were few and far between then, and you’d hear their iron-boxy clattering a mile away. Over the hill at Coolagh, and then you’d see a long white ribbon of dusty road, straight to Poulacapple. e side of this road was a great haunt for the tinker clan – noble tinsmiths by trade and tradition – and well respected then in all communities.
Anyway, I’m passing one of their tents, and a fellow comes out to talk to me. Of course, he was making o ers to buy the mare! “Will you sell that mare, surr?” - but I decline – telling him who owned her. He knew Mick’s farm; “I’ve mended many a pot for that dacent man, surr!” en I spied a tiny pup tied to a caravan wheel. A little beauty. “How much is that pup, there?” I asked. “How much money have you got, surr?” “Half-a-crown” I go. “ at’s exactly what I’m asking for that royal animal – that ne Yorkshire dog!” he cried. I was amazed – and a bit curious – about this coincidence – but I handed the coin over, picked up the tiny bundle, and carried on to Kilvemnon.
Having handed over the mare, I walked o into Mullinahone – birthplace of my good mother – and called to see her brother, who had a house there. Having told him I’d walked up from Baurscoobe to see him, I was rewarded with ve bob! A small fortune then. Alec would always give a few bob to a cheeky little chiseller! And gave me a pound for my mother, too, as well he knew her poverty-stricken state. e long walk home then, and the little creature snoozing in the oxter of my shirt. After a few months, ‘Fang’ became adept at catching the rabbits, sneaking up on them like a mongoose. Many a good feed resulted from her expertise, and she operated famously with a mongrel dog I had. I loved them equally, they were in my company sixteen hours of every day. e mongrel rejoiced in the name of Doggo Dog, and was as clever as they come. He’d wait down the road for me to come home from work. Sometimes I’d cod him by crossing elds and coming in the back door, then watching him dgeting his bum around on the road, and giving a few impatient barks. Eventually he’d give up and come in, and when he’d see me in the kitchen would launch a big ‘attack’ on me, forcing me to lie down and beg for mercy! en, one day, a shopkeepers son – a dire sour alcoholic brute – poisoned my mongrel. So I was left with Fang. One day she went a bit mad, running around in circles. I had no money for a vet, but we knew it was ‘the ts.’ Sometimes the animal recovered.
I tied her up in the shed that night, went out to see her several times. But in the morning, she was gone, having chewed through the rope that held the chain to the butt of the post.
I searched the countryside for her. My two pals were gone in two weeks. No sign anywhere. So I buried her old feeding tin beside where lay my dear old Doggo Dog.
A couple of years went by. I never got another dog. I just went out with the gun and a borrowed terrier.
One winters day, a dry one with the wind roaring through the trees and bushes, I was getting over a ‘double-ditch’ down near McEnery’s bog. As I was going to jump down, a shiny object caught my eye, near the bottom of the ditch I was standing on.
I climbed down to see what it was. It was a shiny metal chain, and attached to it was a small rotting leather dogcollar.
And in the collar was the tiny skeleton of my little Fang. e other end of the lead was snagged around a bush on top of the bank, so she had starved away to a lonely little death.
I had passed within yards of her in all the weeks searching. Maybe fate had decreed she was strangled. Not much consolation, but the better of two rotten deaths.
I brought her home, every little bone of her. I lifted the sods o the top of my dear old mongrel, and interred her amongst the chest bones of her faithful pal, the good old Doggo Dog.
Together now in death, as they had been in life.
I was sad to nd her, and I was glad to nd her.
Nothing lasts forever; only memories…..
Two little dogs
Ned E
Disclaimer
e opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily re ect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of e Kilkenny Observer.
Relay for Life Returns for 10th Anniversary
The popular fundraiser for the Irish Cancer Society returns after a 2 year break
All pics by Amanda Burke
e committee of Relay for Life invited dignitaries, sponsors and team members to the Rugby Club to Launch the fundraising event on Friday night. After a 2 year hiatus the popular fundraiser is back for its 10th anniversary.
George Candler was emcee for the evening and welcomed Kathleen Funchion TD, Councillor Maria Dollard and Mayor Andrew McGuiness who arrived in support. Andrew McGuiness spoke in glowing terms of the work that has been carried out by the volunteers who spearhead the unique 24 hour long event. Committee Chairperson Patsie Cummins echoed his sentiments and explained to the attendees that all monies raised as part of Relay for Life Kilkenny stays in the local area to provide services such as transport and the provision of night nurses. e concept of Relay for Life is based around teams, formed weeks in advance, teams register online and then organise various fundraising activities to raise money for the Irish Cancer Society. is culminates with the 24 hour Relay event where teams must have one member on the track at all times.
While people take to the track there is a family festival feel at the venue where the committee have a stage for live entertainment, a wellness tent and a hospitality area to keep the crowds well nourished.
Despite being called Relay for Life there is no level of tness required to take part. People take things at their own pace and give as much or as little time on the track as they feel comfortable. If you are not a member of a team you can still come and enjoy the day and support those who are participating. After a break of 2 years the committee is strongly encouraging people to come out and visit because Relay is the type of event that you need to experience to fully understand the impact. is year’s event starts at 3pm on July 2nd and continues until 3pm on July 3rd in the Rugby Club. ere is still plenty of time to register your team and start your fundraising e orts. You can register at www.cancer.ie/ways-tohelp/fundraise/relay-for-life/ register or contact the team on Facebook or Instagram or send an email to r kilkenny@ gmail.com
Queues at airport no laughing matter says O’Briain
Lengthy queues at Dublin Airport are pushing it towards the “bottom rung of international airports” with passengers left furious once again over queues at security reportedly lasting up to two hours.
Comedian Dara Ó Briain has criticised airport management on Twitter – slamming the “insane queues” and labelling the facility a “mess”.
He said he was queuing for around 70 minutes to get through security, noting that the queues in Terminal 2 stretched out of the building and into the car rental area.
DAA has insisted the queues were less than an hour, even at peak times.
On Newstalk’s e Hard Shoulder, businessman Declan Ganley said the situation could end up putting people o visiting Ireland. “When it is functioning the way it is, it gives a very bad impression, especially when people are trying to leave,” he said.
“I have to say the arrivals experience is OK but the departures, particularly around sort of busy times, transatlantic ights etc, is a disaster and it puts itself on the bottom rung of international airports.
“It is not somewhere people would want to hub through and it is the sort of airport that is getting a reputation as a place to avoid – which is not a reputation you want to be getting for yourself when you’re running an international airport.”
He said the airport was building a “very, very bad reputation” that will discourage people from wanting to do business in Ireland.
“ e thing is Ireland has a fantastic reputation and it has been and is a place that people want to go,” he said.
“So, if you say to people, let’s meet in Ireland; let’s do a meeting, they generally would like to do that – but the airport experience, for somebody that has got a very busy schedule, they don’t want to be spending hours and hours going through airports,” the telecoms entrepreneur said.
Make-A-Wish is official charity for Irish Open at Mount Juliet
Make-A-Wish Ireland has been announced as the Of cial Charity of the Horizon Irish Open until 2027, with the tournament’s title sponsor Horizon erapeutics committing to long-term support of the charity which brings hope, strength and happiness to children with life-threatening conditions through granting their wishes. e deal will see an annual fundraising drive at each of the next six editions of the island of Ireland’s national open, with Horizon promising to provide a match to the donations raised on site at Mount Juliet Estate for Make-A-Wish Ireland – which celebrates 30 years of granting wishes in Ireland.
To launch the partnership, Horizon and the DP World Tour have extended an invite for Peter McEnery – whose dreams came true as a 14-year-old by playing alongside Pádraig Harrington at the 2010 Irish Open thanks to Make-A-Wish Ireland – to play once again in this year’s ProAm alongside his golf hero.
McEnery, who lives with Cystic Fibrosis, was 14 years old when his wish came true to play alongside the threetime Major winner at Killarney Golf Club 12 years ago, when he also received a once-in-alifetime VIP experience at the historic national open.
Now 26, McEnery is a four handicap golfer and credits his experience 12 years ago through Make-A-Wish Ireland as the primary reason for his continued love of the game. He will represent the charity at the Horizon Irish Open Pro-Am with the hope of raising awareness of its incredible work. ere will be multiple fundraising activations on site at the 2022 Horizon Irish Open, which takes place at Mount Juliet Estate from June 30 – July 3, including the Mega Putt Challenge in the Championship Village.
Two in three only get health check-ups when GP advises
Only 66% of people only have routine health checks done when advised by their GP, while a dismal 3% of people avail of health check services in their local pharmacy, according to a new survey.
Research by McCabes Pharmacy also shows that 55% of people say the pandemic affected their access to health check services, while 37% of people say appointment availability has prevented them from getting health checks.
Also 21% of people have never had their cholesterol checked. e research has highlighted just how much the pandemic a ected people’s access to routine healthcare services, with more than half of those surveyed saying that the Covid-19 pandemic a ected their access to health checks, either in the hospital, or with their GP.
Some of the reasons listed were ‘appointment availability’ and ‘fear’ of catching the virus.
In addition, 66% of people admitted to only having routine health tests done when advised by their GP, something which McCabes Pharmacy would like to see change.
Lisa Byrne, Superintendent Pharmacist with McCabes, said: “With appointment availability still an issue in many GP’s and hospitals, we would advise people to put themselves rst and proactively look after their own health. We would encourage everyone to book an appointment at their local pharmacy for these routine health checks.”
What next? from le , Izzy Keane of Izzy Wheels, Pamela Laird and Ailbhe Keane of Izzy Wheels, last year’s winners
Entrepreneur support for women in business
Visa is bringing the She’s Next Grant Programme back to Ireland, to support women entrepreneurs to run, fund and grow their business.
Due to the success of the inaugural programme last year, and the continued need to support women business-owners, Visa is also doubling the funding for the programme. Womenled businesses in Kilkenny are invited to apply for one of ve grants, totalling €50,000, and accompanied with one year of coaching provided by IFundWomen, the go-to funding marketplace for women-owned businesses.
Applications are now open until August 16 at IFundWomen.com/VisaIreland.
In Ireland, for every woman that is an early-stage entrepreneur, there are nearly double the number of men. is is well above the average across the OECD. Con dence continues to be a barrier to achieving parity, with only 38% of Irish women perceiving they have the necessary skills to start a business compared to 58% of men.
For those that have started their own venture, this disparity in con dence remains, with 43% of women business owners, surveyed by Visa, stating they were very con dent in evolving their business compared to 65% of men. e lingering impact of the pandemic is also being felt and businesses run by women are again disproportionately a ected, with over half (58%) saying 2021 had been a challenge and their business is still recovering, compared to 33% of men.
Mandy Lamb, Managing Director UK & Ireland, Visa, said: “Women who own and manage businesses face a unique set of challenges including access to capital and peer networks. at’s why we’re excited to help make a di erence to women business-owners across Ireland today through the second She’s Next Grant Programme.
“Our research also shows women are less con dent than men in growing their business which is why we’re particularly proud to o er access to coaching and support through IFundWomen as well as that injection of €10,000 in capital.” To enter, applicants are asked to submit details about their business and online presence at IFundWomen.com/VisaIreland.
Applications are invited under ve di erent categories:
General awards for: • Micro business: sole proprietorships or microbusinesses with no more than two employees • Early-stage business: Businesses founded and incorporated within the last 24 months • Small business: Any small business with less than 50 employees • Additional two categories for: • Innovation: Businesses in science, technology, engineering or medicine that are focused on developing new technologies. • Sustainability: Businesses that show recognisable achievements in sustainability e orts e.g. sustainable energy, climate resilience, environmental and social best practice, environmental and social innovation, and gender and economic inclusion.
Karen Cahn, Founder & CEO at IFundWomen, said: “It’s an honour to partner with Visa on the second She’s Next Grant Programme in Ireland. It was encouraging to see the amount of interest in last year’s programme and we’re con dent that with continued funding and resources, each woman-led business will be able to take the steps to grow with con dence.”
Globally, female entrepreneurship is growing, with 153 million women operating established businesses. Since March 2020, She’s Next empowered by Visa has awarded more than €1.25 million in grants and coaching scholarships.
Prestigious conducting award is cherry on top as Council Award Civic reception to Violinist Patrick Rafter
e Kilkenny Observer caught up with the multi-talented Patrick Rafter this week and spoke to him of his recent achievements.
Patrick Rafter, international award winning violinist is no stranger to accolades and momentous occasions. However, for the reecastles man and former St Lachtain’s hurler, there have been some recent exciting moments.
Patrick was honoured by Kilkenny County Council with a Civic reception on 25th April 2022.
A Civic reception is the highest honour that the people of Kilkenny can bestow upon one of their own, and his nomination was unanimously accepted by the entire Council.
Patrick was joined by a multitude of representatives
Family members of Patrick Ra er photographed with his award from Kilkenny County Council. From le : Sean, Nicole, baby George, Charlotte Ra er ( Patrick’s wife), Paddy (dad), Maura, ( mother) Alexander Carly.
of Kilkenny County Council, and his proud family comprised of his wife, Charlotte, parents Paddy and Maura, brothers and sisters Sean, Isabelle, Alexander and Nicola.
Patrick was congratulated for his musical achievements in violin and conducting, and commended for bringing his talent home to Kilkenny as well as representing Kilkenny with pride in all his international appearances. this civic reception, and that being recognised in his home city is greater than winning any international award”. Patrick and his mother, Maura Duggan Rafter treated those in attendance to a short recital full of reworks and violinistic acrobatics!
It is unsurprising that Patrick has such an immense gift for music as his mother
Patrick Ra er conducting the RTE orchestra
Maura, and father Paddy, are two long standing bastions of music making in Kilkenny. e Rafter family, from reecastles, undoubtedly have music in their veins.
Maura, a pianist, and Paddy, a Tenor have supported and shaped their son into the musician he is today by exploring all genres of music in the home.
When asked about his favourite music, Patrick shares that he loves all great music from Bach, Mozart and Beethoven through to Freddy Mercury and Leonard Cohen.
Patrick is set to have a jam packed 2022/23 season with concerts and recordings across Europe, and he is delighted that normal life seems to be resuming again.
You can follow him on Facebook and Instagram or at www.patrickrafter.com.
MASSIVE CAREER DEVELOPMENTS AHEAD
And for the other exciting career development for the young musician.. A case of “if life gives you lemons, make lemonade”...
Like most musical artists, Patrick was faced with insurmountable career changing obstacles as a result of Covid-19 restrictions.
It was a pivotal period of time which allowed him the freedom to dedicate time to studying his ‘forbidden’ discipline - conducting. Patrick describes his yearning to learn the art of conducting from a young age, but had the wisdom to recognise that he needed to be an outstanding musician prior to commencing his studies as a conductor.
In his early 20s, Patrick recognised that conducting was an avenue he desperately wished to explore, to add another string to his musical bow. When it became apparent that Covid would have long lasting rami cations on live music making, and international travel, Patrick decided that the stars had aligned to create the perfect circumstances to begin his conducting journey. roughout Covid, he commenced studying with the best of the best conductors of today through zoom, immersed himself in literature, became artistic director of his beloved choir, Carlow Voices, was awarded the Conducting Fellowship at UCD under Ciaran Crilly and Amy Ryan. e cherry on top of these accolades and experiences came in March 2022 when he won the prestigious Feis Ceoil Conducting competition in association with the RTE Concert Orchestra.
Patrick is ‘forever grateful and humbled to have had the opportunity to conduct Ireland’s leading musicians’, as the nal round saw him making music with the RTE Concert Orchestra. His prize will be a recording and performance with the Concert Orchestra in 2023 Season.
Other exciting plans for Patrick are debuts with London Mozart Players(UK), Bad Nauheim Symphony Orchestra (Germany), RTE Concert Orchestra, Ulster Orchestra among others and performances at a host of International and National Festival.. ere is even a special trip home for Kilkenny Arts Festival this summer.
The Ra er Family , pictured at St Canice’s Cathedral where they have performed their music and song. Included, Patrick with parents Maura and Paddy.
Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council Cllr. Fidelis Doherty, presents Patrick Ra er with his certificate.
Ireland’s most trusted alarm system
FEELING safe and comfortable in our homes is essential. We all deserve the right to be worry free when we hear a knock at the door, a rustling noise in the garden, the honk of a car, but we can’t help wondering what or who it is. ankfully most of the time it’s a friendly neighbour but at PhoneWatch we want to put your mind at ease. We give you peace of mind by being fully in control of your home when you’re inside and outside, whether you’re alone or with family and friends.
PhoneWatch’s award-winning, 24/7 monitored home security is a system you can trust, with over 30 years of experience and an average 22 seconds response rate, you’ll know your home is fully protected with us, 24/7.
We can all ensure we’re more secure by following simple but e ective safety tips, such as the below.
Safety tips for you: 1. Always lock your doors, even when you’re at home. 2. Don’t leave windows opened when you’re away, even for a short time
period. 3. Leave a light on when you’re away. To be energy e cient, you can use our smart plugs and set on a timer. 4. Ask a neighbour to bring in your post and bins, so it doesn’t look like you’re away for long. 5. Always arm your alarm at night and when you’re away. 6. If you have a garden and are going away, cut the grass before you leave.
PhoneWatch safe guards you against burglary, re and leakage emergencies that may happen. We tailor our o ering to suits your needs, as we know every home is di erent but staying protected always remains the same priority for everyone. We even have key tags to give family members and friends access to your home as you wish, as we all love to see a friendly and familiar face at our doors.
Our skilled local professionals are always there to o er our customers free call outs, free technical service and free personal support. For further details and a personalised quote call us on (01) 912 8916 or visit www. phonewatch.ie to request a call back.
Put a pepin your step!
Pembroke Podiatry, part of the award-winning dental group, Pembroke Dental, are encouraging the people of Kilkenny to take care of their feet.
Pembroke’s in-house Podiatrist, Raquel Fernandez is quali ed to treat a variety of foot problems, such as corns and calluses, verrucas and ingrown toenails. When painful foot conditions arise, they can be uncomfortable, a ecting your health and a ecting your health and wellbeing.
Foot care is important for Foot care is important for all of us – for our health, all of us – for our health, comfort and quality of life. comfort and quality of life. However, foot care is espe However, foot care is especially important for diabetic cially important for diabetic patients, pregnant women patients, pregnant women and older people. and older people.
Pembroke’s Podiatrist, Pembroke’s Podiatrist, Raquel said: “I can examine Raquel said: “I can examine your feet, how you walk, and your feet, how you walk, and assess any concerns that you assess any concerns that you may have. I will also take may have. I will also take you through the traditional, you through the traditional, non-surgical treatment op non-surgical treatment options that we o er here at tions that we o er here at Pembroke Podiatry. Our Pembroke Podiatry. Our feet need to be com feet need to be comfortable and pain free fortable and pain free to keep mobility and to keep mobility and balance at maximum balance at maximum levels - feet have levels - feet have a lot of work to a lot of work to do!”
Pembroke Podiatry are welcoming new and existing patients new and existing patients to book in for a consulta to book in for a consultation with the Podiatrist, tion with the Podiatrist, Raquel, who can also carry Raquel, who can also carry out treatment on the day of out treatment on the day of the consultation. e clinic the consultation. e clinic is located in the heart of is located in the heart of Kilkenny city, in Provincial Kilkenny city, in Provincial House on Patrick Street. House on Patrick Street.
If you su er from any foot If you su er from any foot issues, or if you have any issues, or if you have any concerns relating to feet, concerns relating to feet, you can email the clinic at you can email the clinic at patientcare@pembroke patientcare@pembrokedental.ie or call the dental.ie or call the
Patient Care Team on Patient Care Team on 0818 211 211 to book a 0818 211 211 to book a consultation. consultation.
A Degree from the University of Life
IN today’s busy world of the life of our students and graduates while striving to achieve success in their chosen elds of their ambitious careers. em chasing degrees and master’s degrees, year after year. Finally, leaving university with an education that was not available to our current seniors of society. eir chosen careers were decided by the needs of the family unit, the family farm and sometimes in the unfortunate case of a sick and ailing parent. ey had to become the main breadwinner of the house sometimes as young as just becoming a teenager.
So while the men and women of today have more letters after their names than in their names themselves! Head out into the working world of today, the one degree they lack, the one that you can only get while you travel through life. A degree from the “University of Life”. is degree is possibly the most important lesson anyone can gain. It is what our elders have in abundance. Our masters and degree holders could do a lot worse to improve their education than go and seek advice from students of the “University of Life”. As they head out ready to run down every avenue left and right why not stop! Take a breath! Go ask the advice of those who have travelled all the roads and avenues that you are now about to embark on. Wise heads can direct you down the right road and avoid the roadblocks and obstacles that they encountered on their journey. Our students of today have acquired skills that they could trade in exchange for this advice. While our seniors will tell you how every motor runs, every plant or vegetable grows. In return our graduates can pass the necessary that will help our seniors expand their knowledge of technology that can be an incredible help to all in the senior years.
All our degrees
are valuable to the one who holds it, and to the employer who wishes to hire you for the knowledge you have learnt as you passed through all levels of our excellent education system. But, imagine how valuable you would be to the workforce and your society in general if you also had a degree from the “University of Life”. Where your lecturers are more than willing to educate you as these seniors you see and pass everyday have a wealth of knowledge no book or computer can teach you. Talk to the seniors in your neighbourhood and towns to get the most valuas just becoming a teenager. able degree of all, “A Degree of Life”. letters after their names than degree from the “University education than go and seek head out ready to run down seniors expand their knowl edge of technology that can be an incredible help to all in the senior years. All our degrees towns to get the most valu able degree of all, “A Degree of Life”.
6 Ways to be fit and healthy in retirement
It is important to look at ways to stay t and healthy in retirement. Without good health while in retirement, you may nd yourself spending more time in doctors’ o ces and resting at home than doing what you planned. e good news is that you can do many things to take care of yourself in retirement to enjoy it to the fullest. I have developed a list of 5 things I would recommend
EOIN EVERARD
1. Exercise e bene ts of exercise for people who retire is well documented. It can help regulate mood, manage stress, and increase self-esteem. In addition, exercise can prevent disease and help improve circulation of blood to the extremities. It also helps keep bones strong and improves balance to help lessen the chance of a fall. And exercise does not have to be scary or vigorous. A nice brisk walk around the town or down to shops is a good start. Also, if you can arrange it with a friend it is even better which I will talk about next.
3. Do classes and have a set routine
ere is a good quote “ e problem with retirement is that there are no days o !”. While this is funny line, there is a little truth in it. It is important to slow down and enjoy retirement, but habit and routine are essential to keeping active and good mental health. Make it a point to try some classes to help structure your day. ese do not have to be tness related but having activities that keep routine in your week is vital. Warren Bu et had a line about how much money he is going to leave his kids when he dies and says “Enough so they can do anything they want but not so much they can do nothing!”. is is true for a happy and healthy retirement; you can do anything but not nothing!
4. Socialise
According to the senior citizen association of America, lack of socialisation as in retirement can lead to negative impacts on health and mental well-being. Doing classes in addition to improving your tness can also increase your socialising. Sometimes retirement can be a little isolating, so it is important to make new ties and bonds. Like I say in a previous point, maybe arrange a set walk each week with friends. Join or create a book club, join a club or do a class. In particular, when you are newly retired, it is important to set these habits early.
5. Eating healthy food
e bene ts of eating healthy and nutritious food are well researched and wide reaching. Eating healthy promotes energy and helps reduce the risks of heart disease. It also helps with weight control, which is important as we age. Being less active and gaining weight at an older age can lead to higher chances of heart-related diseases such as strokes and type 2 diabetes. ese can hamper any plans in retirement permanently. Eating well does not have to be complicated. Try to get a mix of food from on your plate from all food groups at each meal and start small. Try eliminating one thing or adding one thing at a time. In retirement you might have a little more time to focus on cooking healthy and tasty dinners so try a few new recipes out.
6. Stay safe
While this may be a consideration many overlook, safety is important when you retire. is does not mean learn karate or carry a hurl around with you! is means preparing your home with an alarm if it is just you in the house or other emergency alert equipment, make your home comfortable and especially have good lighting as well as a clear and clean oor to avoid accidental slips. I did an Emergency First Responder course recently and could not believe how cheap a de brillator is to buy. No one wants to think of the worst but with a little training on this it could be the best thing you ever spend money on. Follow these tips above and enjoy what research tells us is the time we can feel happiest in our lives.
Denis (Dency) Walsh, a great local character who died on May 17th
A pall of sorrow hung over Callan this month. A great singing voice had fallen silent when Denis Walsh of Mellows Park, better known to his friends as Dency, said goodbye to the world. He passed away peacefully on May 17th at St Luke’s Hospital. He was in his eighties.
For decades he blazed trail as a popular local entertainer. He had performed at charity functions since 1951 and livened up many a journey for Callan folk heading to All-Irelands.
Nolan’s bus was the place to be when Dency sang his repertoire of hurling songs. It was better than the Albert Hall as Jackie or Eddie drove the bus and our very own tenor with the voice of an angel lifted the spirits of expectant fans en route to a Clash of the Ash in Dublin or an inter-county showdown.
I wrote about Dency in the 2004 book Callan through the Mists of Time, recalling his exploits, and in particular the events of April 1999, which was a tense and fretful month for Callan because Dency announced he was to end his long singing career.
He revealed to a saddened and disbelieving group of drinkers in the Cozy Inn that a performance due to be staged at a Search for a Star nal the following month would be his last public appearance as a singer of traditional and operatic songs.
He had entered hundreds of competitions over a span of ve decades, winning an impressive 38 of them. But, owing to health problems, he felt obliged to give his vocal chords a rest and take life easy.
He decision to retire coincided with his well-deserved selection to represent Callan’s Cozy Inn in the second round of the Smithwick’s Singing Pubs event, which was held on May 6th 1999 at the Springhill Court Hotel. He believed this might be an apt occasion on which to “bow out” of singing.
I spoke to Dency before the musical event. He looked back with a mixture of nostalgia and pride on his career. His happiest memories included the night he sang alongside the great Ruby Murray.
It was on the stage of the old cinema in Callan. e “softlysoftly girl”, he called Ruby, referring to her sweet voice. And she took Dency to her heart, praising his interpretation and rendition of both classical hymns and rousing Irish ballads.
She told her Callan audience that Dency had “more captivating charm than Clark Gable in Gone with the Wind.”
Dency complimented her too, and she appreciated his kind remarks about her high pro le visit to Callan. “Ruby and I were the dream duet”, he joked.
He also took part in the Vic Loving Show when it came to Callan. He almost put Vic and her professional entourage in the shade with his own performance, though the visiting celebrity was gracious enough to acknowledge Dency as “a great entertainer.”
“Dennis is a man after my own heart”, Vic enthused, pinning a single red rose on Dency’s lapel after the Callan man’s “class act.” at was a rare compliment from a performer who had packed the ballrooms and parochial halls of rural Ireland.
In the 60s and 70s, locals happily joined in the chorus when Dency sang on bus trips to the matches. He always kicked o a singsong with the Rose of Mooncoin, to which he famously added his own line: “Where the thrush ate the robin and the three balls of twine.”
By the time the fans got to Croke Park or the other major venues, they were well and truly psyched up for the game.
An admirer of Dency’s recalled for me an occasion that underlines the esteem in which he was held locally. Sometime in 1989, a large number of Callan men were on a restoration scheme at Tullamaine graveyard when one of them, Jack Condon, called for silence. ere was somebody about to sing on Radio Kilkenny. It was Dency Walsh. Everybody downed tools. Shovels were abandoned, trowels fell to the ground, sprongs were put aside.
Billhooks stopped slashing at a forest of weeds, and the men using them froze to the spot when the work supervisor emitted a loud “hush”! e engine of a growling chainsaw being used to cut down a tree in the graveyard suddenly cut out.
A deferential silence descended over the ancient cemetery. For a few precious moments, the workers rested amid Celtic Crosses and moss-covered gravestones, and wiped the sweat from their weary brows under a blazing midday sun. e frowning work supervisor mellowed and broke into a beaming smile at the prospect of hearing her favourite tenor perform for the county. She granted special dispensation to the workers, allowing them a break to hear Dency. ey gathered around a tiny transistor that was mounted on a wall beside the entrance to the graveyard. ey started to cheer as Sue Nunn announced that their pal and fellow worker was about to sing. But the beaming supervisor cried “hush, lads, he’s on”!
An angelic voice became audible, rising and swelling by the second to a heart- uttering crescendo. e strains of the Holy City (more commonly known as Jerusalem) pierced the calm air of a hot summer’s day like a trumpet blast from Heaven. e long-time friend of Dency’s who recounted for me said it reminded him of a scene from e Shawshank Redemption, in which a group of workers react in a similar way when an Italian soprano is heard over a public address system. e workers at Tullamaine were tongue-tied, overwhelmed, and transmogri ed by the heavenly tones of the man from Mellows Park.
Give his popularity; one can appreciate the near panic that greeted his retirement declaration in 1999. A bus had to be hired to bring locals to Springhill hotel to hear what many feared would be his Dency’s swansong.
Following his Singing Pubs performance, dozens of fans from Callan and neighbouring districts approached Dency and pleaded with him to re-think his decision to quit. Candles were lit in the Parish Church. Prayers winged their way to Heaven from a small town in Ireland, beseeching the Almighty himself to intervene. e prayers were answered! After hours and days of consultations and appeals, Dency agreed to postpone his retirement “inde nitely.” He continued to entertain, right up to a few weeks ago when illness interjected, singing Hosannas to the Most High and hurling songs with equal relish, and crooning the best of Irish ballads in the pubs and by the resides… in the town of his birth and countywide. roughout his colourful life and singing career Dency had a special reverence for the Holy City, and you could visualize the New Jerusalem looming on a far shimmering horizon when he gave it his all, whether he sang it on radio, in a church, in a pub, or at a charity fund-raiser. Regardless of the venue his audience caught a glimpse, be it ever so small, of the divine.
Now, the man from Mellows Park has passed through the gates of that celestial home from home that he honoured in song.
And I suspect that out there, somewhere, he’s still singing… in the place where the music never dies.
Pre-deceased by his parents Martin and Brigid, brothers Sonny and Jim his sister Margaret. Missed by his loving family, his nieces and nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends, especially Ann and Roland Komar and Bosco and Elaine Bryan.
-John Fitzgerald
Grief is not a sign of weakness nor a lack of faith. It is the price for love
Kilkenny Bereavement Support is a voluntary organisation o ering a listening support service since its foundation in 1989. In that time thousands of people of all ages have been supported in their grief.
Most people manage their grief with the support of families, friends and work colleagues. For some, it is di cult to adjust to a life without their loved one. Whereas many people experience a sense of shock and disbelief when a death occurs and have strong feelings of guilt, fear and loneliness, these tend to subside gradually. For others, these symptoms can persist for a long time. It is at times like these that Kilkenny Bereavement Support is available to the bereaved person. e volunteer seeks to accompany the bereaved person on their grief journey as they try to make sense of what has happened while trying to live life without the loved one.
Kilkenny Bereavement Support is currently looking for volunteers to help and continue to provide their invaluable service. With the lifting of Covid restrictions in recent months there has been an increased demand for this listening service which is con dential and free of charge.
Kilkenny Bereavement Support is made up of volunteers drawn from all walks of life. e recruitment includes an application form and an interview. is is followed by a 30 hour training course in September/October. Certi cation follows experience of bereavement support work. Trained volunteers will be asked to commit for two years to the service.
Most of the support work takes place in a one-toone situation although since our experience of Lockdown, we have incorporated phone calls and Zoom In general, the bereaved person and the volunteer meet at a time that is convenient to both in Villa Maria, Talbot’s Inch, Kilkenny.
For a volunteer application form, please contact Kilkenny Bereavement Support at 056 7756538 or apply on line at www. kilkennybereavementsupport.com.
“ e truth about loss is that I have found a balance between remembering and living” Niamh Fitzpatrick (sister of Dara, Irish Coast Guard Helicopter crash victim).
Co ee Morning at Statham’s Bar, Pembroke on June 1st
Courtney Cass (our Rooms Division Manager) is an ambassador for this year’s ‘100km in 30 Days’ event throughout June to raise funds for Breast Cancer Ireland e hotel is going to support her next Wednesday 1st June by ‘going pink’ for the day We will have a co ee morning in Statham’s Bar at Pembroke Kilkenny, 10am – 12.30pm on the day and will have pink themed food & drinks, décor and ra e prizes
Mint will also have a ‘Pink Massage’ which will be available from 1st June -30th June 50% of the price of the massage will be donated to Breast Cancer Ireland e Massage will be: 30 min Back, neck & shoulder massage with a bespoke 10 min add-on treatment, including options such as Indian Head Massage, Soothing Foot Massage or relaxing Hand and Arm relief €60 is massage is suitable for everyone, including those going through their treatment journey or need help with relaxation, sleep and anxiety
Bishop Nulty is chief celebrant as altar is consecrated at St Mary’s cathedral
Photographer Grzegorz Janta
St Mary’s Cathedral Kilkenny, 162 feet in length, 100 feet wide and 186 feet tall, has stood over the city of Kilkenny for 165 years. e Cathedral tower stands proud over the city of Kilkenny a familiar landmark which can be seen from many parts of Kilkenny City. ere have been a number of times in its rich history when the interior has been transformed: in the 1890s Bishop Brownrigg signi cantly changed the sanctuary; in the 1930s Bishop Collier added the mosaics and a new organ; in the 1970s Bishop Birch oversaw the re-ordering of the Cathedral in accordance with the changes in the celebration of Mass following the Second Vatican Council. Bishop Freeman commenced the present phase of work in 2011 when the sanctuary mosaics and windows were cleaned and restored.
In January 2019 Bishop Farrell invited liturgical architect Paul O’Daly to visit the Cathedral. Paul, a native of Dublin, has vast experience in the restoration and reordering of many churches and religious houses in Ireland and has designed several new churches. Paul brought an understanding of liturgy and the concept of ‘sacred space’, including the interaction between language, ritual, and the appropriate furnishing of a church. Paul met with local architect Brian Dunlop of Kilkenny and together they began the planning and design process that culminated in the celebration on Sunday 27th March.
Bishop Denis Nulty, Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese, was the chief celebrant at Mass in the Cathedral on Sunday 27th when the Altar was consecrated and the Ambo was blessed. Bishop Denis was joined by 20 priests of the diocese including four previous administrators of the Cathedral: Canon Pat Duggan, Fr Noel Maher, Fr Oliver Maher and Mgr Kieron Kennedy. e new altar and ambo are in integral part of the celebration of Mass. e Ambo, or often called the Lectern, is the place where the Word of God is proclaimed. e Altar is the place of sacri ce where the Bread and Wine become the Body and Blood of Christ. e new altar and ambo are the work of Mr omas Glendon and his son Philip. omas is a renowned Irish craftsman specializing in in sculpture, letterform, ecclesiastical work and design in stone, wood and bronze. St Mary’s Cathedral is the second cathedral where omas’ work can now be seen; he is the sculptor of the new altar in St Mel’s Cathedral in Longford. omas visited St Mary’s Cathedral numerous times and took his inspiration for the new altar and ambo from the curves and designs of its magni cent pillars. Listening to omas speak
Fr Jim Murphy, a native of the Cathedral Parish, reads part of the Eucharistic Prayer.
Bishop Nulty adds incense to the charcoal in the brazier; “Let my prayers rise before you like incense” (Psalm 141)
Bishop Nulty greets Mr Paul O’Daly (Liturgical Designer), Mr Thomas Glendon (Sculptor of the Altar and Ambo) and Mr Brian Dunlop (Architect).
of stone and its form is poetic. Watching him at work in his workshop in Loughrea and in the Cathedral was magical: carving, chiseling, shaping, curving – the chisel in his hands used with the ease of years of experience.
Locally Kevin Moore and his team provided services to the work over the past three months. Local stonemason Donal McDonald restored the side altars reinstated the marble reredos that have been cleaned and repaired. Jody O’Dwyer repaired the mosaic oors and Pat and Robert Walsh restored the magni cent black and white tiles of the centre nave.
Bishop Denis welcomed all to the Cathedral for the blessing and consecration commenting that
“Ours is but a small contribution to its long history; ours are but some of many prayers that have been, and will continue to be, placed before the Lord in this magni cent place. We shall pass, and generations of people will pass after us, and still these stones and timber will be standing here, an enduring memorial of our brief stay on earth but our abiding and enduring faith.”
At the beginning of the Mass water was brought from the River Nore, the Breagagh, the elds of Clonmoran, Kenny’s Well and the Well of St Kieran in Seir Kieran. As the water was poured into the Baptismal Font in the Baptistery Ger Cody, Commentator of the Liturgy, remarked: is evening water is brought from where we live. e water from these wells and rivers represents our backgrounds, our stories that become one when we gather as the people of God, water from holy places where our stories and lives are blended.
Bishop Denis blessed the water which was then sprinkled upon the new ambo and altar.
After the homily Fr Richard Scriven intoned the litany of saints. Bishop Denis poured the Oil of Chrism upon the altar and he was assisted by Lucy Culleton (St Canice’s Parish), Dwayne Joyce (St John’s Parish), Kyle Tanap (St Mary’s Parish), Orla Dowling (St Patrick’s Parish) all who have been con rmed this year. A brazier of charcoal and incense was placed on the altar symbolically representing our prayers which ascend to heaven.
Sacred Music was provided by the Cathedral choir under the leadership of John O’Neill and organist Joy Bibby. Readings and prayers were read by Tina Lawler and Michael Whelan who are regular readers in the Cathedral; Pat O’Neill sang the psalm. e o ertory gifts were presented by the O’Neill family; Rebecca was the bell ringer for the Mass.
After communion the choir sang the anthem to Our Lady: e Ave Maria. During this hymn the new lighting in the side chapels of Our Lady and St Joseph was lit. e sacristans lit two candles in the Lady Chapel recalling those who had died of Covid in the past two years and also the people of Ukraine at this time.
At the end of the Mass Fr Scriven, Administrator of the Cathedral, saluted the work of the various tradespeople and in particular the architects Brian Dunlop and Paul O’Daly for their work and dedication to the project. He acknowledged the work of Bishop Farrell, now Archbishop of Dublin, who during his time in Ossory had initiated this phase of work. Fr Scriven thanked Bishop Denis for his time and energy in this interregnum period as we await the appointment of a new bishop. He invited all present to take some time to stroll around after Mass to admire the work and then to gather for a cup of tea in the Chapter Room of the Cathedral.
Two months on and the new sanctuary is a wonderful sacred space in which to celebrate the sacraments. Already ve of the seven sacraments have been celebrated: Con rmation with the boys and girls of the parish schools; Eucharist each day and on special days such as First Communion in this month of May; e Sacrament of Penance during Holy Week, two weddings since the dedication ceremony has taken place and four baptisms using the font which is now relocated in the Baptistry. e cathedral has welcomed visitors from all over the world. Each day visitors from near and far come to stroll around the beautiful building that sometimes we may take for granted: St Mary’s Cathedral in the heart of our city and the heart of our diocese.
The O’Neill Family bring the O ertory Gi s to Bishop Denis in the O ertory Procession.
Fr Michael Reddin, Administrator of Seir Kieran, and Dáire Mahon, a student of St Kieran’s College, bring water from the Well of Saighir Kieran which was used to bless the new altar and ambo.
Bishop Nulty pours the Sacred Chrism upon the Altar during the Prayer of Consecration. He is assisted by four 6th class boys and girls who were confirmed this year.
