Kilkenny Observer 2nd July 2021

EVERY FRIDAY

The Kilkenny

Observer FREE EDITION

Friday 2 July 2021

To the rescue State-of-the-art medical chopper 

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Staying on top Good food guide to healthy heart  See page 42

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EVERY FRIDAY

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Vicky’s cancer fears My cancer is not curable, says Vicky Phelan as she reveals tumour has grown.

Page 4

State ‘fails victims’

Heroes and heroines: the Irish Community Air Ambulance has taken delivery of a Leonardo 109S helicopter. It is the fastest civilian helicopter in the world and is ideally suited to the provision of a rural Helicopter Emergency Medical Service Full story, Page 6

The State is failing victims of domestic abuse, says Sinn Fein Page 18

Top of the world

To open up or not to open up: that is the dilemma COMMENT

The Editor --------------THE Government is on the horns of a dilemma as it considers advice on the current and projected development of both vaccination and the dreaded Delta variant.

And whether to put back the much heralded ‘open sesame’ day to July 19 pushed back from July 5.

It feels like we’ve been here before. Last Christmas to be EVERY FRIDAY

exact. The current dilemma is much like that in the run-up to last December, when all we had to worry about was a few cases of a strange new ‘Kent strain’ that quickly became known as the British variant. By the time it became officially known as B-117, it was already running rampant through Ireland — its deadly extra transmissibility missed until it was too late.

The country had already reopened for a meaningful’ Christmas. Like we are hoping

The Kilkenny

Observer 1 GARDEN ROW, TOP OF WILLIAM STREET, KILKENNY, CO. KILKENNY R95 X95A

to do likewise now and save summer; But it’s hoping against hope it would seem.

The full meaning of that misplaced optimism was delivered in January, the beginning of 2021 seeing the most deaths and the greatest cases and hospitalisations of the entire pandemic.

Now we are back in a similar place, albeit with differences. A new strain is charging and will soon take over here, according to Nphet in a free-for-all is

allowed. At the same time, there is huge hunger for reopening of society. People are fed up, mental wellbeing is not good, and businesses are suffering big time.

Pubs and restaurants want to reopen for indoor dining — and the Government wants that too, but in time and the anointed date keeps getting pushed back.

Jobs and livelihoods are gone, some for good. This years hoped for tourism’s bonanza is a nonrunner.

GETTING IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM

We need to repair the damage done to the economy but the dilemma is we also have to prevent another wave and more casualties.

It’s hard not to agree with Ibec who say that businesses, while recognising the health motivations behind the decision from Government to postpone the reopening, remain hugely disappointed with the outcome and are concerned about the workability of a system that prioritises fully vaccinated persons.

Kilkenny has been designated a World Crafts Council Craft City, one of only four regions to achieve this recognition..

Page 6

Our week of Pride Our LGBTI+ young people are Shining With Pride Page 19

The Big Apple

A visit to New York is every bit as exhilarating as you would expect.

Page 50

INSIDE

Paul Hopkins..........................P8 John Ellis..............................P10 Biance Rallis.........................P20 Picture Special.....................P34 Health & Science.................P42 Food & Wine.........................P43 Travel & Leisure..................P50 TV & Streaming..................P51

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This cancer is not curable, says Vicky as she reveals tumour has grown VICKY PHELAN has confirmed that her cancer has grown as she pledges to continue her fight for justice for those who were affected by the Cervical Check scandal.

The heroic mother-of two has revealed that sadly a new tumour has developed in her lung as she heaped praise on a miracle drug which she rigorously campaigned for.

Ms Phelan was diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2014, after receiving an incorrect smear test result that failed to detect any abnormalities in 2011.

Taking to social media she wrote: “So, I have been holding off on sharing news that my cancer is growing back (slowly, thankfully) I needed the time to absorb this news and for my family and friends to absorb it too.

“In addition to growth in three tumours, I have developed a new (tiny - 3mm) tumour in my lung.

“I knew this day would come, and that Pembro would stop keeping all of my tumours at bay. But I am so very glad that I fought for Pembro.

“It has given me almost three years of a quality of life I could never have hoped for on chemotherapy.

“I am actively researching options at the moment, and, apart from bouts of extreme tiredness at times, “I am very lucky to report no

other symptoms at the moment.”

The defiant activist went on to say that, despite the upsetting diagnosis, she will continue to campaign as she paid tribute to other victims of the CervicalCheck scandal.

“I will continue to campaign with the @221plus for a Tribunal that meets the needs of the women and families affected by the #CervicalCheck scandal because one of our main asks centres on providing for w o m e n

who suffer a recurrence, like me.

“This cancer is NOT curable. It affects primarily young women with families.

The State admitted failing these women in a State apology last year “They undertook to provide an alternative to the High Court for women & families affected to right the wrongs that have been visited on them through the failings of CervicalCheck. The State, through Minister Stephen Donnelly must do the RIGHT thing by these women and families.

“Listen to our concerns and address the needs of the women and families with grace and compassion. Honour those who have already passed away including Ruth, Emma, Orla, Julie and stop the cycle of prote cting the State or you will fail these women a second time.”

Vicky Phelan: ‘I knew this day would some...’

Six in 10 of us want a more sustainable diet SIX in 10 Leinster consumers would like to follow a more sustainable diet (61.9%), while the vast majority (84.5%) strongly believe that Ireland is a suitable place for dairy production, a growing issue for consumers with Covid-19 making them more conscious (62.1%) of the location of where their food is produced.

Nationally, Irish consumers say they would be more likely to follow a more sustainable diet if clearer sustainability labelling (55.3%) and increased accessibility (50.6%) to these products made this

‘sustainability switch’ easier.

Those are some of the key findings of new national research of over 1,500 Irish adults released today by the European Milk Forum (EMF) as part of its ‘Dairy in a Healthy and Sustainable European food system’ campaign.

The research also detected a significant increase in climate conscious actions by Leinster consumers, with recycling (90.8%), reducing food waste (83.7%), choosing regionallyproduced foods (52.9%) and purchasing Fairtrade products (50.7%) among the most

common activities undertaken this past year.

A sustainable diet is defined as one which balances nutritional adequacy, cultural acceptability, economic affordability and environmental protection*.

Zoe Kavanagh, spokesperson for the European Milk Forum in Ireland and Chief Executive of the National Dairy Council said the research underscored consumers’ desire to eat more sustainably, as well as the value they place on locally produced, Irish dairy.

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World finest craft honour for City KILKENNY has just been designated a World Crafts Council Craft City and Region, one of only four regions to achieve this recognition in Europe.

This prestigious internationally recognised award is the result of an application put forward by MADE in Kilkenny, a craft collective of designermakers and Kilkenny County Council. It will greatly enhance Kilkenny’s reputation as a craft destination.

The application, judged by an international panel of jurors, was the result of several months of hard work by MADE in Kilkenny members who had to demonstrate the region’s craft activities in the areas of making, education and training, and exhibition spaces.

The World Crafts Council, a non-governmental organisation founded in 1964, aims to strengthen the status of and promote crafts as a vital part of

cultural, social and economic life through their global network of members and affiliates.

Welcoming the announcement, Minister Malcolm Noonan T.D, Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform said that “Kilkenny has a long tradition of being a centre of craft activity in Ireland with its many craft workshops, home to the Design and Crafts Council Ireland, the National Craft Gallery and Centres of Excel-

lence in Ceramics and Jewellery.

“Kilkenny is also well known for other creative sectors including fine-art, animation and its many festivals including music, film, comedy and food.

This is great news for Kilkenny and is another prestigious award to add to the long list of awards achieved in recent years”.

Kilkenny has long had the reputation for being a centre

fers more speed but it also has additional room at the rear. That means that we can transport adult patients more comfortably and we

also have space for an additional medic on board, if necessary.”

The Community Air Ambulance works in tandem

of creativity, and the MADE in Kilkenny collective has actively contributed to this perception over the last decade. The group has striven to bring together the considerable wealth of craft talent found in Kilkenny to a wider audience and to foster excellence in craftsmanship.

“MADE in Kilkenny is a multidisciplinary craft group organised and run by its members on a voluntary basis. It’s mission is to promote Kilkenny as

the premier destination in Ireland for authentic hand-made Irish craft of exceptional quality”, according to Gus Mableson of MADE in Kilkenny.

Commenting on the designation, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr. Fidelis Doherty stated that “this designation puts Kilkenny on the international map and recognises the huge work carried out in the craft sector over many years”.

Life-saving medi-copter gets lift-off...

THE Irish Community Air Ambulance has taken delivery of a Leonardo 109S helicopter. It is the fastest civilian helicopter in the world and is ideally suited to the provision of a rural Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS).

The charity heli-med service has responded to almost 1,000 incidents from its base in Rathcoole, Co. Cork since it was established in July 2019. Cardiac arrests account for the most incidents so far this year, followed by road traffic collisions and farming accidents.

The new aircraft, which goes into full service from now offers more speed, greater patient comfort and

Sarah snaps it up...

CONGRATULATIONS to Media Studies student Sarah Brunel, of Ormonde College of Further Education in Kilkenny, who was shortlisted and runner up in the National Media Student Awards 2021, (The Smedia Awards) for Student Photographer of the Year.

Her photographic work examined the news category. Which focused on the lockdown and the inherent restrictions during the pandemic, exploring the play on light and colour.

We wish Sarah the very best of luck in her future photography and media career.

it has the capacity to take on more fuel increasing endurance and range.

The helicopter can travel up to 300 kilometres an hour. It is capable of flying the length of the country from Mizen to Malin Head in a little over 90 minutes. The same journey would take eight hours by road.

Irish Community Air Ambulance Chief Executive Mícheál Sheridan says: “We are often called to the most serious of incidents, in these situations where you’re dealing with a critical patient, the small gains can have the greatest benefit to the patient’s comfort and outcomes.

“This new helicopter of-

with the National Ambulance Service and brings patients to the hospital that best suits their life-saving needs. The Mater Hospital

in Dublin and Cork University Hospital (CUH) are the two major centres for the provision of trauma care in Ireland.

In memory of an angel, Béibhinn aged nine A NEW charity has been launched in memory of a young girl who died suddenly in September of last year.

The Heart Angel is inspired by nine-year-old Béibhinn O’Connor from Riverstick and Carrigaline in Cork and aims to celebrate and commemorate her life and the lives of other children who have passed away in Ireland.

The Heart Angel was launched at Cork City Hall by Cllr. Fergal Dennehy, Deputising for the Lord Mayor and Cllr.

Séamus McGrath, Deputising for the County Mayor Béibhinn suffered from a rare congenital heart defect, and died on September 16, 2020 after a routine procedure fol-

lowing open-heart surgery that triggered a fatal cardiac arrest.

The Heart Angel charity plans to create beautiful inspiring memory gardens in every county in Ireland and has already begun working with local authorities. The first Heart Angel garden is planned for Carrigaline, Co Cork, a second garden will be created in Cork City next year.

A special concert to celebrate Béibhinn’s life will also be held on September 4.

Said her mother Irene: “Béibhinn during her short life, inspired everyone around her to ‘Be Kind’. She lived everyday like it was her last and has left behind a powerful legacy of kindness, love and positivity.”

Dead Morto

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News Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter PAUL HOPKINS

Surely, it’s time to get down and boogie THE global music industry is worth more than €50 billion annually, with two major income revenue streams. Live music makes up over 50% of total revenues, derived mainly from sales of tickets to live gigs. The other, recordings, sees revenue from streaming, downloads, physical sales and synchronisation revenues, that is licensing of music for movies, games, TV and advertising. Streaming makes up almost half of that revenue.

In the wake of the pandemic, physical sales, which represent a quarter of recorded music income, are down by one-third – not surprising, given the closure of record stores – while digital sales have fallen around 11%. This aligns with general decreases in discretionary spending.

Spotify, which has added tens of thousand of followers during the pandemic, has noted a change in consumers’ routines, saying that daily habits are now reflective of

weekend consumption, as well as relaxing genres rising in popularity.

It seems we find daily solace in music in these times of uncertainty.

In terms of the amount of music consumed, initial data shows a reduction in streaming of 7 to 9% in some markets, although this appears to have recovered. At the same time, on demand music video streams have risen due to a change in our behaviours: the pandemic has intensified our focus on news media (especially TV), while fewer commuting and the gym closures have shifted listening to different times of the day.

Not just now, with the pandemic, but all my life has been as audience to music, of all genres.

I have an insatiable appetite and each period in my life has been soundtracked by it — Rock when I rolled with the punches as a young man, Country when in

the good years of a wife and children, Jazz when those years came unstuck and the melancholia of middle age kicked in. And always the Great Masters to which I have notably returned the past 16 months.

From early Baroque to the Romantics, they have been around a long time through many a plague and pandemic — and triumphed.

Indeed, from as early as ancient Egypt, Greece and the Babylonians, music has been an instrument for spiritual healing.

Whether live gigs and stadia sell-outs — which can account for 75% of an artist’s revenue — triumph again any day soon is anyone’s guess, although the Government is to examine the plausibility of such and already there have been a few concerts with limited, curtailed attendance.

There was a time, aeons ago, when you’d be lucky to get a major act to darken out doorstep, but in the last four decades every major

draw either kicks off or ends a world tour in Ireland. And, despite our size, we have more than our fair share of venues. Not least Nolan Park or the sylvan setting that is Slane Castle.

On August 16, 1981, 30,000 music fans converged on the grounds of Slane Castle. Thin Lizzy headlined Slane’s first concert, with other Irish bands such as U2 rounding out the bill. Henry Lord MountCharles worried that, as Ireland was on edge politically, violence might erupt. Thankfully, fears were unfounded and Slane Castle’s first concert was a joyous, peaceful smash hit that paved the way for decades of legendary concerts.

Until the time of the coronavirus, that is.

I like the story Henry was fond of telling about when the Rolling Stones first played Slane in 1982.

(They returned in 2007). Frontman Mick Jagger had asked Henry if he could visit the then

popular night club in the castle basement that was a regular for young people for some years.

When the gig had finished — legendary newspaper editor Vinny Doyle had sent Irish Independent classical music critic, the

We find daily solace in music in these times of uncertainty...’

”

late Mary MacGoris, to cover the concert, just for a ‘different angle’, and word was she was never the same afterwards — Henry took Jagger to his club, around midnight.

The venue, a renowned restaurant by day, was in full flow.

There was a local farmer who was, although no spring chicken, allowed saunter over the road and sit by the bar and avail of the late night extension; sitting there with his Guinness, eyeing up the young women dancing the night away.

As Henry and his guest passed the old farmer at the bar, MountCharles stopped momentarily to acknowledge his neighbour. The farmer returned the greeting and eyeing the lank Rolling Stone up and down said, matter-of-factly: “Do people ever tell ya, you’re the spit of that Mick Jagger fella?”

To which the Stones frontman replied: “Yeah, I get that all the time.”

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Opinion

The hidden costs of free education

BY JOHN ELLIS FINANCIAL ADVISOR

EDUCATION in Ireland is supposed to be free, but each year back-to-school costs are rising for families.

Research carried out by Zurich in the Cost of Education in Ireland report reveals what parents estimate the cost of education to be and what the actual cost is.

The research also highlights those expenses incurred for children in secondary school almost double that of primary and third level expenditure is triple that of secondary.

What parents estimate the cost of education to be and what the actual cost is, differs significantly.

According to the report parents think the annual cost of education for primary school is €668, but the actual figure is €1,100 per year.

The highest spend during a child’s primary school year is extra-curricular activi-

ties (€202) and then lunches (€194). The research findings also reveal that most parents (87%) don’t get a loan to pay their children’s primary school expenses.

The report highlights that parents sending their children to secondary school believe it costs them €1,207 each year, per child. However, the actual cost is €1,891 per year. The highest spend items for parents with children in secondary school are grinds (€368) and lunches (€224).

After that, the largest costs

Government failing to tackle skyrocketing childcare costs BY: DEPUTY KATHLEEN FUNCHION SINN FEIN TD FOR KILKENNY CARLOW SINN Féin TD Kathleen Funchion for Carlow Kilkenny has warned that the government is continuing to fail families through its ongoing failure to address skyrocketing childcare fees despite being in power for a year.

Teachta Funchion said: “Childcare costs are far too high and are simply unaffordable for families on normal incomes. The government needs to properly fund the sector, so that childcare fees will go down and families will get a much-needed break.

“This time last year in their Programme for Government, the coalition announced a series of promises to reform the childcare sector.

“However, we are now a year on and not only have childcare fees not fallen, but they have actually risen even further. This failure is letting down families here in Kilkenny who are faced with monthly fees north of €680 per month per child. Families with more than one child in full time childcare must meet this significant financial

burden on a monthly basis, it’s these families that urgently need childcare fees to go down.

“Parents are struggling to cope with skyrocketing childcare fees and change needs to happen urgently.

“The Government has dismally failed working parents who need affordable childcare in their first year. Families are crying out for this crisis to be

addressed, but the Government isn’t listening.

“The consequences of this childcare crisis are clear. Many parents want to return to work but cannot afford to and so leave their jobs or reduce their hours to stay at home with their children instead. This particularly affects women, who often feel forced to drop out of the workforce and this deepens inequality in our society.

“Sinn Féin in government would prioritise tackling the cost of childcare. We would take on the cost of staff wages, so that fees would go down for parents.

This would reduce fees by one third within the first year and then by two thirds over five years.

This would be a crucial investment in our children’s futures.

“Childcare should be affordable and it should be accessible locally. It’s a place where children go to learn, develop and grow – that’s why it’s vital we get it right.

“As they mark one year of being in government, the coalition marks a year of failing to act on the childcare crisis. There can be no more delays.

They must act and reduce childcare fees to give families a muchneeded break.”

are school trips and activities (€220) and books (€213).

The report also finds that in order to fund their children’s education, parents are sacrificing spending on holidays, summer camps and clothing to cover the cost of education.

Third level doesn’t come cheap and by the time a teenager reaches third level, parents are really feeling the cost of putting their children through university or college. The survey reveals the true cost of third level education in Ireland, and it’s

not surprising to learn that accommodation and college fees are the highest spend items during the college year.

The cost of accommodation for the college year ranges from over €3,000 to over €4,000, depending if you are paying for rented or student accommodation.

Then, looking to further your education? The cost of many Masters courses can reach over €7,000 a year (for a two-year course). And that’s before you add in costs such as books, laptops and other college material.

When it comes to financing children’s education, the need for sacrifices follows the same upward trend – the higher the educational level, the higher the necessity for making sacrifices to cover education costs.

For example, should your child start third level in 16 years’ time, and live away from home, you would now need to save approximately €250 per month to accumulate €48,000 by 2037.

Whereas, if your child is starting college in four years’ time, in 2025, you would now need to start saving €1,000 per month.

Here are some simple tips to help you save for your children’s education and alleviate some of the pain!

1. Start early. The earlier you start saving the less you’ll have to put away. 8 years is the average time parents

‘What parents estimate and what the actual cost is, differs significantly…

”

spend saving for their children’s education 2. Think savings. If possible, any money left over at the end of the month should be saved. Top up your savings whenever you can.

But better still save first; make your savings the first thing you pay into each month.

3. Open a separate savings account. As this reduces the temptation to dip into your savings for day-to-day expenses, and finally, 4. Monitor your savings. Keep an eye on your savings and always try to put away a bit extra each month.

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County’s Casual Trading bye-laws come in for scrutiny KILKENNY County Council has begun a review of the casual trading bye-laws for the county to complement the review of the casual trading bye-laws for Kilkenny City which was completed earlier this year. There has been an increased interest in casual trading since the onset of COVID restrictions with

more people now enjoying the great outdoors.

A casual trading licence is required from the council for the selling of goods in public places designated as casual trading areas. Under the council’s byelaws a number of locations in towns and villages across the County are currently desig-

nated as casual trading areas, for which an application can be made to the council for a licence to trade.

These are currently located in Graiguenamanagh, Thomastown, Inistioge, Hugginstown, Kells, Castlecomer, Kilmanagh, Gowran and Glenmore. The current bye-laws can be viewed on

the Council’s website at: www. kilkennycoco.ie/eng/Services/ Environment/Casual-Trading The main purpose of the review of the casual trading byelaws is to assess whether or not the number and location of casual trading areas across the county is sufficient. The Council’s Executive will engage with

each of the Municipal Districts in the coming months to ascertain their views. Draft Bye-Laws will be presented to the SPC at their meeting in September for consideration before being presented to the Council. The draft bye-laws will then be placed for public consultation.

In advance of the public con-

sultation, the council are now welcoming the views of local communities on the location of casual trading areas across the County.

Ideas on locations setting out why you think the area in question is suitable are welcome for consideration by emailing: environment@kilkennycoco.ie

Child care complaints fall but work ‘to be done’ THE Ombudsman for Children’s Office (OCO) received 24 or 2% of its complaints from Co. Kilkenny in 2020, its Annual Report has revealed.

The report, ‘2020 Childhood Paused’, reveals that the OCO received 1,187 complaints about services provided to children in 2020.

Ombudsman Dr Niall Muldoon said: “We do not know where every single one of our complaints comes from – some complaints relate to more than one area, or there can be more than one child involved. However, we know for sure that 24 complaints came from Co. Kilkenny.

“While this is not very surprising, based on population spread, it shows that we still have to work hard to let people in Co. Kilkenny know that we are here.”

In 2020, 6% of the complaints made to the OCO came directly from children, this is an increase from 3% in 2019. This increase can largely be attributed to those who contacted us in relation to education issues and is an indication of the level of upset among students. 100% of the children who contacted the OCO mentioned the impact of the pandemic on their mental health of children.

Once again, the main area of the public service people complained about in 2020 Dr Muldoon: work still to be donex--

was education – making up 46% of complaints. In 2019, 49% of complaints were about education.

New issues that came up in 2020 included: • Remote learning and the digital divide • Lack of clarity about State examinations • Mental impact on young people • Calculated grades • Children in high risk households who feared bringing Covid-19 home • Impact on children with special educational needs

Dr. Muldoon said there can be no return to “normal” for children after the pandemic.

“Lasy year was a devastating year for children. We heard heart-breaking stories of children with additional needs regressing and about the turmoil the uncertainty caused. Children were grappling with the digital divide and they worried about parents who had lost their jobs as the pandemic wreaked havoc on the economy. We know that this impacted children in Co. Kilkenny and all over the country.”

Dr. Muldoon encouraged children, parents or those working with children in Co. Kilkenny to contact the OCO if they have an issue they office might be able to resolve.

Kilkenny’s very own Poster Boys!

A NEW Kilkenny based film called ‘Poster Boys’ will open in cinemas from July 9.

Described as the “road trip movie of the summer”, the comedy-drama tells the story of a dysfunctional uncle, played by Trevor O’Connell, who in a desperate attempt to save his job takes his 10-year-old nephew, played

by Ryan Minogue-Lee, on a cross country adventure in a stolen campervan. The film

features a host of familiar faces including Keith Duffy, Amy Hughes, Joe Rooney and Ian Dempsey.

Poster Boys had its premiere last year at the Galway Film Fleadh and speaking ahead of its cinematic release director Dave Minogue commented: “The film offers a feel-good comedy road trip experience, with a lot of heart, while showing off the beauty of Kilkenny. Viewers

will recognise scenes from Thomastown, Goresbridge, Graignamanagh as well as Stoneyford and Mullinavat. The film’s soundtrack includes hits from Bell X1, Horslips, Joe Dolan and an original score from the album ‘A Lifetime of High Fives” by Vyvienne Long”.

Poster Boys has another Kilkenny connection. It features entrepreneur Bobby Kerr who also happens to

be a financial backer of the project. “The film was made on a tiny budget,’’ explains Minogue, “we approached Bobby with the idea and he agreed to back us. He was incredibly supportive and gave us the freedom to follow our creative vision for the piece. Bobby also has a cameo role in the film as an Icecream man! We’re really looking forward to presenting this to Irish audiences”.

€100 billion fails to dent our gas emissions, according to audit DESPITE the vast amounts of EU taxpayers’ cash being poured into agriculture, including more than €100 billion earmarked to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the sector in the last seven years, the new report from the European Court of Auditors (ECA) has just confirmed that agricultural emissions have not come down at all since 2010.

Indeed, Irish agricultural emissions have actually increased.

This, according to the ECA, “is because most measures supported by the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) have a low climate-mitigation potential, and the CAP does not incentivise the use of effective climate-friendly practices.”

Livestock emissions account for around half of emissions from agriculture; they have not decreased since 2010 and have risen sharply in Ireland in this period due to national government policy.

These emissions, the ECA notes, “are directly linked to the size of the livestock herd, and cattle cause two-thirds of them.

The share of emissions attributable to livestock rises further if the emissions from animal feed production (including imports) are taken into account”.

The report also notes that the CAP supports climate-unfriendly practices, such as paying farmers who cultivate drained peatlands, representing less than 2%

of EU farmland but emitting 20% of EU agricultural greenhouse gases.

Drainage of peaty lands in Ireland to convert them to grass production to feed livestock is a major additional source of GHG emissions in Ireland. Overall, Ireland’s grassland soils are net emitters of approximately 7 million tonnes of CO2 per annum.

Crucially, the ECA report notes that “EU law does not currently apply a polluter-pays principle to greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture.” Were this to change, the high emissions and pollution-intensive Irish model of concentrating on large-scale dairy and beef production, primarily for export, would be liable

to pay for the pollution it creates.

This would likely render much of this sector unviable and calls into question government policies such as Food Harvest 2020, Food Wise 2025, and the upcoming plan for 2030, all of which are predicated on ever-expanding dairy herd numbers.

Dr. Elaine McGoff, Natural Environment Officer with An Taisce, said: “The Court of Auditors report really highlights the need for leadership from Government that recognises the scale of the challenge of reducing agricultural emissions and also takes serious steps to do this while protecting farmers and their livelihoods.”

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Music Generation Tipperary and Music Generation Kilkenny present

TRAD CAMP 2021

‘Magnificent opportunity for young traditional musicians in Co. Tipperary and Co. Kilkenny’

By: Sinéad Blanchfield Music Development Officer, Music Generation Kilkenny E: sinead.blanchfield@ kilkennycarlowetb.ie

28 JULY 2021, Kilkenny: Music Generation Tipperary and Music Generation Kilkenny present TRADCAMP 2021 - a week-long camp for young traditional musicians from both Tipperary and Kilkenny where they will get the chance to learn new tunes and an opportunity to come together and work on a new arrangement of those pieces with one of Ireland’s top professional performers, Lucia McPartlin - all in collaboration

with members of the Music Generation Kilkenny and Tipperary musician teams.

Those lucky enough to be part of this camp will also have the chance to be part of a LIVE video recording with Lucia onsite in both Tipperary and Kilkenny on Saturday 17th July, the final day of the camp. This is when the work from the week will come together and the young people will have the chance to perform together and with Lucia. This event will provide a magnificent opportunity for young traditional musicians in Co. Tipperary and Co. Kilkenny to receive advice from one of Ireland’s top professional performers, and above all else, to take the first steps in getting back to playing music together again.

Speaking about the workshop, Music Development Officer with Music Generation

Tipperary Aidan O’Donnell said “We are really excited to announce this opportunity for young people in Tipperary and Kilkenny. We’re delighted to have Lucia on board for the workshops, and the fact the young people involved will have the chance to actually play with her, and each other in real life as opposed to a virtual environment, is a really special moment in the context of our collective journey this year” Lucia McPartlin is a renowned and versatile traditional musician. She is most well known for her work with the band Strung, and the duo Lucia and Maria, as well as performing with Irish Women in Harmony. From Ballina, Co. Tipperary, Lucia is a highly decorated fiddle player having studied at both the Cork School of music and the University of Gothenburg.

Lucia is also an experienced

Ditch the diet – lose weight naturally!

ANDREW MCDONALD HYPNOTHERAPIST

EAT breakfast! Two simple words, one easy action but something which can radically alter your relationship with food and your weight with a minimum of effort.

Many people think skipping breakfast will help them to eat less and lose the pounds.

Actually the complete opposite is true! By not eating breakfast you’ll almost certainly end up eating more during the day. So make time to eat properly in the morning.

Choose liquids wisely!

Many people don’t realise the amount of calories in their drinks. An Americano is less fattening than a cappuccino or a latte. Tea with a splash of low fat or skimmed milk contains fewer calories than a full fat milky cup. Water or fruit juice are much better for your weight than fizzy drinks.

If you’re having an alcoholic beverage, wine and spirits generally contain less calories

than a pint of beer or cider. Be wise on the mixers if you’re enjoying a long drink though!

Perhaps a little more difficult but well worth the effort is changing your eating habits.

This can be relatively easy like switching sugary snack foods for fruit or require a bit of extra effort like deciding a cut off point in the evening after which you don’t eat anymore.

If you’re somebody who likes to eat big meals, eating smaller portions can be challenging but will definitely help.

Hypnotherapy can help massively with those tasks which are harder to achieve but which bring better results.

Through hypnosis you can programme your mind to naturally avoid unhealthy snack foods and seek out healthier alternatives. This then becomes part of your natural behaviour and you will lose weight without even noticing the effort you’re having to put in to get there.

Hypnotherapy can also help you with getting motivated to start exercising. If you can begin an exercise routine, you’re already a long way down the road towards

achieving your ideal weight.

Your eating habits are only part of the battle to getting yourself looking and feeling great. Starting exercising is often the trickiest part but through hypnosis you can steel your resolve to get moving! Hypnotherapy can also give you the benefits of a gastric band without the painful surgery. By convincing your mind that you have a gastric band fitted, your body will naturally be satisfied with eating smaller portions of food.

Switch to lighter versions!

The amount of calories in various condiments and dressings can often be astonishing. Low fat versions can make a big difference!

Eat protein with every meal!

It leaves you feeling fuller for longer as well as help to keep your blood-sugar levels steady.

This will naturally lead to you needing to eat less often and cutting out more snacks.

These are some far more successful alternatives to dieting. Try a couple of them and see how things work out for you! What have you got to lose other than the pounds?

teacher and facilitator, teaching both internationally and here in Ireland at various events and festivals.

Speaking about Tradcamp 2021, Sinéad Blanchfield, Music Development Officer with Music Generation Kilkenny said “I’m delighted to have the opportunity to collaborate with our Music Generation neighbours in Tipperary on this fantastic initiative. There is a wealth of young musical talent in both counties and the aim of the camp is to get young musicians together- playing, learning new tunes and skills, recording and having fun along the way.

Music Generation Kilkenny has been forging forward in 2021 with a great line-up of programmes and events across schools and the community in Kilkenny City and County.

Since its inception in 2019, over 6,000 children and young

people have participated in the programme.

The mission of Music Generation is to transform the lives of children and young people by giving them access to the breadth of high-quality performance music education, enabling them to develop their creativity, reach their full potential, achieve selfgrowth and contribute to their personal development within a vibrant music community.

Tradcamp is open to young traditional musicians aged 8 – 18 years, with a minimum of

two years’ experience on their instrument. All instruments will be catered for, including traditional accompaniment on guitar.

The cost is €50 per participant for the 5- day camp including the LIVE and IN-PERSON recording experience.

Limited spaces available due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Places will be allocated on a first come first served basis so register now to avoid disappointment! Registration closes on Thursday 8th July.

TO REGISTER CONTACT: Kilkenny: 087 176 5493 (SARAH) E: musicgenerationkilkenny@kcetb.ie Tipperary: 086 078 8016 (EILEEN) E: musicgeneration@tipperaryetb.ie or DM on Facebook (musicgenerationkilkenny)

Sage a helpful plant for memory CLAIR WHITTY

MANY of you will be familiar with the herb sage. It’s best known as a female tonic and is commonly associated with cooling hot flushes and night sweats. It can be used by both men and women who overheat, helping with sweaty hands and sweaty feet too.

But leaving the conversation there would do sage an injustice. Sometimes herbs can be put in one box with one health benefit when they can offer us much more help.

For example, sage can support cognitive function, reduce brain fog, improve sluggish memory and recall for both men and women.

I was reading some research which showed that those taking sage extract performed better on tests that measured memory, problem solving, and reasoning.

I’ve also read that it may be helpful to relieve stomach cramps and reduce anxiety. Its

antibacterial properties make it a useful herb to help sore throats and tonsilitis. You can gargle with sage tea or if you prefer you can use a herbal sage tincture like A.Vogel Menosan.

If you grow sage, you could make your own tea fresh from the garden. Or, if you prefer, you can get Sage tea bags, the brand I like is Salus – they’re quite potent. To make a tea using fresh sage add one or two teaspoons of the chopped herb into a cup of boiling water that has rested for a bit. Leave to infuse for 5- 7 minutes and then enjoy.

You can have two or three cups per day. If you’re on medication do be careful as it may increase the action of some medication.

You could also add some fresh sage to food: for example, food garnish, add to stuffing, make sage butter, simply add to your favourite pasta dish and enjoy.

If you don’t have sage in your garden or if you prefer to take a supplement you could try

A.Vogel Menoforce Sage supplements.

It’s great to know that sage which we can find in our garden can help alleviate some menopausal symptoms, help with cognitive function, and general health too. Like I said, it’s much more than just a coolant!

Stay cool and focused with sage, you don’t have to be a gardener to get the benefits!

For more information and advice why not call in and see us or give us a call.

Natural Health Store Market Cross Shopping Centre Kilkenny Phone: 056 764538 Email: info@ naturalhealthstore.ie Shop online at www. naturalhealthstore.ie

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

Community Group

Getting better everyday HOW great it is to see people walking up and down the High Street, and what a relief it must be to our retailers to see shopping bags in hand as both young and old enjoy the sunshine of the past few weeks. Our local hostelries are all gone Mediterranean, while serving the cappuccinos by day and reverting back to Pints of Porter after the 9 o clock watershed. Courtyards have tables and brightly coloured parasols to attract the natives like flies to the spider webs. In some

cases to have the Irish equivalent of a pro-European salad the slice of ham and a pinch of tae, the choice of many our leading lights of Kilkenny.

Now during the lockdown the Twilight Community Group volunteers worked tirelessly in their communities to ensure no senior felt isolated or lonely during the pandemic. Free laptops were distributed, house calls made, and great assistance offered to those who needed it most. Although, we may be seeing the re-

laxation of the restrictions we still must be careful not to jump back in or as some would say throw the baby out with the bath water and let Covid19 surge again through this Delta and now Delta 2 variant.

Our volunteers were out and about again this week in collaboration with the Kilkenny Recreational Sports Partnership calling to the Newpark Residents Association and the Senior’s alliance members. Hitting the streets of Newpark was

Mr Kieron Ellis as he delivered the Keep active packs.

Kieron was a great hit with the local women they as instantly recognised him as ‘Mr Superquinn’. The Tw i l i g h t Volunteer was the main man that opened Fergal’s Store in the Market Cross Shopping Centre., building up a retail trade that brought a new competitor to the city while providing job and career opportunities for our local men and women.

The Keep Well Pack contains a wide variety of goodies. As we all now venture back on the highways and byways to become more active after our long hibernation during the lockdown it offers high visibility jackets as we walk our way back to happiness, exercise balls and bands, Health and Wellness information all part of the Twilight Community Group’s Health & Wellness programme. For all those healthy eating gurus there is an excellent 101 Healthy Meals book to bring variety to all our diets. The Community Group Volunteers will be calling again during the coming weeks as their Health and wellness programme continues untill October 31 2021 Bank of Ireland Begin Together 2020/21 – Twilight Community Group

HANDS OFF OUR HOMES MINISTER Now we hear over the airways there is a new Government led initiative called ‘Housing for All’. One of the main trust of the proposed programme is the seniors would ‘Right-size’ Now that was called ‘Downsize’ in the last document but some young civil servant who may only shave on Saturday before hitting the town came up with this new term. There is a suggestion if we all give up our ‘big’ houses and downsize sorry!

Right-size we will create 68000 homes for young families. Now one major hurdle in this proposal is to get the seniors out of their homes 68000 new senior suitable ‘small’ dwellings must be built, or did they spend so much time coming up with the new right size term they left the calculator in the drawer.

Our seniors, I believe, have done enough and it is time to look elsewhere to solve the country’s woes. Remember the seniors of today were the people who suffered 17% and 18% interest rates, who queued

over night to get £2 of petrol as it was rationed during the oil crisis of the seventies.

The same people who work all the hours god sent them to keep food on the table and put their children and grandchildren through collage so as to have better opportunities for success in their lives. Now the powers that be are back calling for more blood sweat and tears.

The want us to move from the house we worked all our lives to pay for the mortgage, leave our friends and social hubs behind and move to new area where senior living is in a one bedroom apartment. Yes one bedroom is the plan, as a senior really doesn’t need anyone like a family member, or carer, to stay over to assist us in our golden years or maybe just for companionship. Why should the seniors of Newpark, or any estate be pressurised to do the ‘right’ for the good of the country again! And give up their Family home full of memories.

Hands off our Homes! But wait .... is it true that all the retired Ministers and TDs are going to lead by example and give up their mansions for the good of the nation? As that once great Air Lingus TV add did say “Look Up its Air Lingus” If any off our retired Public representatives on their over inflated pensions lead the way, they can re-design the tag line to “Look Up ....... is that a pig ????”

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Ireland must step up to climate mark, says Clune ALL Member States, including Ireland must “step up” and work towards new climate targets set by the EU. The European Parliament has voted to adopt the new EU Climate Law. They are calling for ambitious 2030 and 2040 emissions reduction targets.

The European Climate Law proposes a legally binding tar-

get of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Ireland South MEP Deirdre Clune said this is the first time the Parliament has passed such a bill and it is very ambitious.

The new law transforms the European Green Deal’s political commitment to EU climate neutrality by 2050 into

a binding obligation. The new regulation establishes a framework for achieving climateneutrality in the EU by 2050. It sets a 2030 target of reducing the EU’s net greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 55%, compared to 1990 levels.

Under current policies, the world is headed for a temperature rise above 3°C by

2100, according to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) emissions gap report 2020. Experts say that pursuing a green recovery from the pandemic could help cut global 2030 emissions by 25% below current projections, and so reach the Paris Agreement’s 2°C target.

MEP Clune said: “Climate

change affects everyone from households, farmers, the fishing industry, manufacturing and transport. We need to step up on our emission reductions across all sectors.

The prize of a safer and more secure planet is a vital one. If not for ourselves then for our children and our grandchildren.”

This Law now gives European citizens and businesses the legal certainty and predictability they need to plan for this transition.

MEP Clune noted how the Irish Government has also published a Climate Action Bill which sets a target to decarbonise the economy by 2050 at the latest.

State fails victims of domestic abuse, says Funchion VICTIMS OF domestic violence victims in Carlow and Kilkenny are being failed by the state, according to Kathleen Funchion TD The Sinn Fein spokesperson on Children was commenting on the distressing findings contained in this year’s Women’s Aid Annual Report which shows a 43% increase in contacts with Women’s Aid Services last year.

Thess findings are on foot of reports over the weekend in an internal Gardai probe that thousands of 999 domestic violence calls from children, migrants and women from the travelling community went unanswered.

Ms Funchion said: “The findings in this year’s annual report show in stark reality that Covid-19 has had an enormous impact on victims of domestic violence. Coupled with this is the distressing reports from an internal Garda probe into cancelled 999 calls that children and women were effectively ignored when seeking help.

“The data contained within this report shows that the issue of domestic violence continues to be a blight on our society. Services working in the area of domestic violence warned that the scale and level of the problem would intensify during consecutive lockdowns and depressingly they have been proved right.

“I am also extremely concerned to learn in recent days that the scale of the cancelled 999 probe reveals that women and children at risk, taking the brave decision to seek help and call 999 had their

calls cancelled and it seems not followed up.

“This disgraceful practice is beyond worrying, especially considering that women are reporting to domestic violence services horrific physical abuse and attacks inflicted on them and their children throughout the pandemic.”

Ms Funchion said Ireland also had a long history of letting women and children down within the family law courts system. The system was completely tilted towards a pro-contact model that benefitted the perpetrators of domestic violence and did not adequately consider the non-abusing parent and or child’s welfare.

“Unfortunately it also seems, that those tasked with serving and protecting our citizens and those residing here are letting our most vulnerable women and children down at the very first point of contact to emergency services by not answering their calls, deleting them or simply not following them up.

“I echo my colleague and Sinn Fein Justice Spokesperson Martin Kenny’s call for Commissioner Harris to appear as a matter of urgency before the Oireachtas Committee on Justice to explain why and how thousands of 999 calls to command and control centres went answered and what actions he as Commissioner is taking to address this serious issue and make certain this unacceptable behaviour cannot and will not happen again,” she said.

Hockey club on the ball with Texaco support KILKENNY Hockey Club, County winners in the recent Texaco Support for Sport initiative, has been presented with a cheque for €5,000 which will be used to purchase sports equipment for new starters, both adults and children, with any remaining balance to be used to increase participation.

One of almost 400 clubs countrywide to make application under the scheme, Kilkenny Hockey Club hosts mixed social hockey every summer

and encourages everyone of any experience or age to come out and get active.

Currently, the club fields three senior women’s teams and two senior men’s teams supported by an encouraging 337 underage members.

The presentation was made to the Club by Valero Energy (Ireland) Limited – the company that markets fuel in Ireland under the Texaco brand.

Under its Texaco Support for Sport initiative, launched last

September, a fund of €130,000 was set aside for allocation in equal amounts of €5,000 to successful applicants chosen on a county-by-county basis.

Overseeing the adjudication process was Texaco Support for Sport ambassador, former Irish rugby international and broadcaster, Donncha O’Callaghan.

Entries to the Texaco Support for Sport 2021 initiative will open this Autumn.

* Our photo shows tthe presentation to Kilkenny Hockey Club members Paula Farrell, Sarah Richardson, Eric Comerford, Liam Richardson, Eddie Dore and Robert Morris was made at a private ceremony held at the Texaco Service Station in Talbot’s Inch. Pictured with them were Texaco Dealer, John de Loughry (left) and Valero Area Sales Manager, Niall O’Rourke (second right).

Photo: Vicky Comerford

Cash bonus on cards for for farmers UP to 100,000 farmers nationally are set to receive Basic Payment Scheme Refunds.

The refunds will total more than €13.35 million and will commence today (Monday).

The money was deducted from their 2019 Basic Payment

Scheme (BPS) payments under the Financial Discipline rule and is now being reimbursed in line with the EU regulations.

Commenting on the refund, Minister McConalogue said: “I am pleased to confirm that these payments are now being reim-

bursed to eligible farmers.”

“These payments will bring the total paid to Irish farmers under the 2019 Basic Payment Scheme to over €1.194 billion.”

In the context of the annual budgetary procedure of the European Union, the financial

discipline mechanism which is implemented by the Member States involves a monetary deduction (1.4% for the 2019 reduction) from some direct payments thereby creating a financial Crisis Reserve for the European Union.

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Our LGBTI+ young people are Shining With Pride FORÓIGE, the National Youth Development Organisation, unveiled their Shine With Pride mural. The artwork was created in collaboration with SUBSET. LGBTI+ young people from across Ireland engaged in a series of virtual sessions with the artist KinMx to share their lived experiences of growing up LGBTI+ in Ireland and come up with the messages they wanted the mural to communicate.

Kilkenny LGBTI+ Young People from Identify, which is an LGBT+ youth group supported

by The Foróige Drum Project, took part in the collaboration with SUBSET. Their participation in the mural project was funded by Tusla, with seed funding under their Child and Youth Participation Strategy.

The artwork tells the story of how the young people found deep solace in nature during their coming out journeys. The central character in the mural embodies LGBTI+ young

people as they come out and blossom with pride into who they truly are as boundless, hopeful citizens of the world.

The progress Pride flag colours; symbols for male, female and transgender people, as well as representations of the bonds of friendship, creativity and the arts are also evident throughout the piece.

Speaking about the collaboration and creation of the mural, CEO of Foróige Seán Campbell said: “It’s vital that all young people be able to express their individuality. To mark Pride month we’re delighted that LGBTI+ young people from Foróige got the opportunity to tell their stories and have their voices heard in such a creative and positive way. We’re grateful to have been able to collaborate with SUBSET on this important initiative.”

Foróige submitted this artwork for inclusion in the Government of Ireland’s Live Out Loud campaign, which promotes how LG-

Shine With Pride: Róisín Coffey Duff, 15, from Tyrrelstown Dublin 15 and Rhys Kennedy, 15, from The Kilkenny Foróige Drum Project attended the unveiling of their Shine With Pride mural in collaboration with SUBSET PHOTO: Leon Farrell/Photcall

BTI+ young people are visible, valued and included in Irish society, culture and sport.

Foróige’s submission includes a micro documentary which shows the journey from begin-

ning to end of the collaboration between the LGBTI+ young people and artist KinMx.

The Shine with Pride mural can be seen on Camden Row Dublin 2.

Lamb prices stay low as beef outlook good

Taking a walk on the wild praise side ...

THE pedestrian boardwalk through Silaire Wood has ‘come into its own’ during lockdown and is a hit with visitors from around the country.

On a recent walk along the boardwalk, Cllr Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere said he met families

from Donegal and Kerry who ‘couldn’t get over’ the facility.

They were also full of praise for Woodstock Gardens.

Cllr Cleere said Silaire Wood has also been mentioned in the Irish Times recently and is getting national coverage and respect.

Director of Services, Mary Mullholland, said Silaire Wood had “come into its own” during Covid.

The re-vamped boardwalk opened last November, after several months of work.

The 400m long boardwalk along the River Barrow, with

the exception of screws, nuts and bolts, is made from 100% recycled plastic. As well as demonstrating the council’s commitment to sustainability and the reuse/repurposing of materials, the material also provides for an attractive, low-maintenance, rot-proof

and vandal-resistant piece of leisure infrastructure.

Funding was secured by Kilkenny County Council under the Outdoor Recreational Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) earlier this year to undertake the enhancement works to the existing boardwalk.

IFA Sheep Chairman Leeson Neale said strong farmer resistance and tight supplies of suitable lambs means factories are not succeeding in getting lamb prices back to the lower levels quoted.

“Buying has started for the EID festival and factories are very anxious to secure supplies including competing strongly in mart sales for lambs and cull ewes,” he said.

Leeson Neale said factories were paying €7.00 to €7.20/kg, with deals to €7.30/kg to secure lambs. Cull ewes are making €3.30 to €3.60/kg.

Last week’s slaughter figures were back almost 3,000 head on the same week last year at 49,325, with the slaughter figures for the year back 81,551 head or 7%.

The IFA Sheep Chairman said farmers should sell hard as factories look to fill orders for the EID festival.

Meanwhile, IFA Livestock Chairman Tom (Moss) Mulhall said beef prices had risen a further 5c/kg this week.

Steers are making €4.15/kg to €4.25/kg; heifers €4.20 to €4.30/ kg; cows are starting at €3.40/kg for P grades with flat prices for mixes of Os and Ps of €3.60/kg and top-quality beef cows pushing to €3.85/kg and over in cases.

Young Bulls are ranging from €4.15/kg to €4.30/kg.

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What does the Holistic approach really mean?

BY ERICA DALTON-JOYCE

S

ometimes we are all consumed by our everyday goings on. The Covid restrictions, will the pubs ever open again! The current climate has certainly knocked some of us sideways and created a lot of worry about

work, job stability, isolation and health. The Holistic approach focuses on our wellbeing not just being one about physical health and wellness, but our emotional, spiritual, social and mental health supports.

We often focus on the negative, one negative thought, our aches and pains. This is important to,

as it is the warning system of our body, telling us that something needs looking at. However, its important too, not to unpack and move into the negative mindset.

Taking time to list what we are grateful for daily, even the smallest things can help immensely. Go for that short walk surrounded by nature.

Spend time or a phonecall with people who make you laugh.

Look after what fires the spirit and soul, grow the wellness, not the illness and look after yourself as a “whole”, especially during the difficult times. You might find it was worth that few extra minutes every day. What creates Wellness for one might not work for another. Looking at oneself as a whole, identifying what gives you pleasure, relaxation, stress relief, for instance will identify what works Holistically for you.

For some it might be reading in a quiet spot or walking the dog in the woods or by the river. It might be quiet moments of meditation or simply the scent of incense.

It might be tending the garden or it might be going to a Sound or Reiki healing session. To introduce the Holistic approach to your life is to introduce balance, joy, harmony and fun.

And who doesn’t need that.

Lower back pain: Fix the problem and you won’t have to worry about the pain EOIN EVERARD

IT’S gotten a bit confusing how we sometimes look at our health. When pain strikes the low back we usually think we just got a new problem or injury. But why then was coughing, shaving, or doing the laundry, so different this time? These are things we do every day.

Rarely is a new episode of low back pain brought on by a well-defined injury or trauma. Trauma in most cases is usually quite trivial.

We confuse pain as a signal for something that is physically changing each time.

So what is the problem?

The problem is joint sprain or subluxation. This is a ligament problem and occurs with small micro traumas over many years, or sometimes with acute events such as car accidents or falls.

Over time the ligaments stretch, causing the joints and vertebrae to displace, irritating the delicate nerve fibres. But over a few days or weeks, the pain that accompanies this injury gradually lessens, and in many cases goes away all on its own. But has the problem also gone away? Likely not, because when ligaments are traumatized, the repair mechanism involves scar tissue, which is less elastic than the original, and makes the joint vulnerable to re-injury and sometimes impairs the free and symmetrical motion of the spine. Physiotherapists examine for this type of joint sprain using palpation for tenderness and oedema, and a G.P can also help confirm this by x-rays to see the directions the vertebrae have moved towards. These specific analyses can tell us the vulnerable directions and how the vertebrae need to be repositioned to promote good alignment and good posture.

The adjustment is de-

signed to reduce this misalignment, and induce more symmetric motion.

When movements are asymmetrical in the spine, they can lead to premature degeneration of the spine and arthritis. This may be why a simple task such as lifting a laundry basket can flare up the back so easily.

You may be lifting with good form and posture but with an asymmetrical spine, the loading is very off balance.

Sometimes the disks are so damaged that a simple sneeze is enough to cause excruciating pain. So when these trivial events seem to trip you up, it means there is an underlying problem that is not getting corrected.

Email everardpilates@ gmail.com to get our free book Secrets to a Healthy Spine or for more information about back Pilates and availing of a free trial.

Visit everardpilates.com/ backfreetrial.

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Three-bed semi up 5% to €221,500 in the county THE price of the average second-hand three-bed semi in Co Kilkenny has risen 5% to €221,500 in the last three months, according to a national survey by Real Estate Alliance.

Across the county, the average time taken to sell has fallen from six weeks to three this quarter, the Q2 REA Average House Price Index shows.

The price of the average three-

bed semi in Kilkenny city rose 5.3% to €258,000 this quarter, with time taken to sell falling from six weeks to two.

“We are seeing a market that is really strong and active,” said Michael Boyd of REA Boyd’s, Kilkenny.

“One particular property went on the market last week and there were 70 mortgage approved parties ringing to view it

in three days. We are also seeing the early stages of new homes developments projects.”

Callan prices this quarter rose 4.5% to €185,000, with the average time to sell falling from six weeks to three.

“There is a lack of supply coupled with a positive market and huge demand, with many people moving from Dublin to County Kilkenny,” said Robbie Grace of

REA Grace, based in Callan.

“There is a distinct difference in the market. People are prepared and more knowledgeable. Purchasers are a lot more focused.”

Average house prices have risen by almost €1,000 per week nationwide since the end of March, the REA Average House Price Survey has found.

The survey concentrates on the actual sale price of Ireland’s

typical stock home, the three-bed semi, giving an accurate picture of the second-hand property market in towns and cities countrywide.

Fuelled by pent-up demand and the return of physical viewing, the marketplace is also seeing the lowest supply and the shortest time taken to sell in recent history.

And as multiple buyers bid for scarce supplies, the average three

bed semi is now reaching sale agreed after just four weeks on the market across the country – less than half the ten-week average this time last year.

The price of a three-bedroomed semi-detached house across the country rose by €10,000 in the past three months and now stands at €253,685 – representing an annual increase of 8%., accorfing to the report.

Meeting on future infrastructure of South East region is productive

Survivor: Peter Bradley – a survivor of brain injury and one of the first persons to avail of the life-changing services of national non-profit Acquired Brain Injury Ireland – celebrates 21 years since the organisation’s formation, with his sister, Chief Executive and Co-Founder Barbara O’Connell.

Photo: Mark Stedman

52 suffer brain injuries a day ACQUIRED Brain Injury Ireland (ABII) has just celebrated 21 years empowering survivors of brain injury to rebuild their lives. The organisation was set up in 2000 to meet a vital need to provide lifechanging, specialised neurorehabilitation for individuals in Ireland whose lives had been shattered by brain injury.

This includes those acquiring brain injury from falls, road traffic accidents, concussion and stroke living in Kilkenny.

From a single assisted living service providing a homefrom-home for three brain injury survivors, ABII has since grown to serve 1,100 individuals nationally every year.

The 21st birthday milestone is particularly significant in the year of publication of the Ombudsman’s ‘Wasted Lives’ report, which recently highlighted the inappropriate placement of young people in nursing homes.

Chief Executive and CoFounder of ABII Barbara O’Connell drove the organisation’s foundation after her brother, Peter Bradley, suffered two brain injuries as a result of two serious road traffic accidents before the age of 42. No longer able to live independently, and without access to any appropriate rehabilitation services, Peter was transferred from acute care

and inappropriately placed in a nursing home.

Commenting on the occasion of the 21st birthday, Barbara said: “Brain injury is a hidden phenomenon in our society and nobody ever thinks it will happen to them.

But it happens to 52 people in this country every day, often leaving them with a chronic and ongoing condition that can affect their lives and those of their family for months and years after the initial injury.”

ABII is now Ireland’s leading provider of clinically-led community rehabilitation for individuals with brain injury aged 18 to 65. In addition to operating 16 rehabilitation residenc-

es around Ireland, including Kilkenny and Tipperary, the organisation provides a broad range of in-home community, day and vocational rehabilitation programmes alongside family supports in every province in the country.

This past 18 months, and in the wake of the pandemic, ABII has also extended its services and its reach by incorporating ‘telerehabilitation’ through the use of online and digital technologies.

Kilkenny/Tipperary. Local Services Manager: Evelyn Norton.

Telephone: 052 691255.

Mobile: 087 7730 721.

Email: enorton@abiireland.ie .

A GROUP representing the South East First Citizens’ Forum met recently with Minister for Transport and the Environment Eamon Ryan TD, to discuss were key infrastructural needs for the region. These include the development of the N24 from Waterford to Limerick, optimising the economic and renewable energy opportunities from Rosslare and Waterford ports, and growing the network of South East Greenways for the benefit of locals and visitors alike.

In a full and frank discussion, the group impressed the importance of these three key areas for the future economic and sustainable development of the South East.

The Forum brings together the First Citizens from Kilkenny, Carlow, Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford with the key goal of addressing the structural challenges faced by the South East.

The five First Citizens in the Region that were also present at the meeting were: Cllr Fintan Phelan, Carlow; Cllr Fidelis Doherty, Kilkenny; Cllr Michael Smith, Tipperary; Cllr Damien Geoghegan, Waterford; and Cllr Ger Carthy, Wexford.

Speaking on behalf of the people of Kilkenny City and County, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr. Fidelis Doherty

said: “As a member of the South East First Citizens Forum representing the people of Kilkenny, I welcome this opportunity to discuss the key priorities for the future infrastructural development of the South East with Minister Eamon Ryan.

“The delivery of projects like the upgrading of the N24, investment in the South East Ports of Rosslare and Belview and the expansion of the South East Greenways is essential as these are major pieces of infrastructure for future job creation, improved connectivity and economic develop of the region.”

Marc Ó Cathasaigh, TD who was present at the meeting stated that “I was pleased to be able to facilitate the attendance of Minister Ryan at this meeting, and had briefed him on the issues that would be arising. The First Citizens’ Forum is a very welcome initiative in terms of co-ordinating and mobilising political support on a regional basis in the Southeast.

“For too long, we have been pulling against one another – increasingly now we see the region pulling together to the benefit of all. I found the meeting informative and constructive and will be pressing the minister on a number of the questions raised,” the TD said.

Beat at 18 years celebrates in style BEAT 102-103 is celebrating its 18th birthday in style with two huge promotions.

The South East regional broadcaster will be whisking two friends off to the White Isle in ‘Ibiza Uncovered’ before giving away a massive €1,800 in cash in what will be the culmination of its ‘Birthday Bucks’ promotion.

The South East’s No.1 youth radio station made headlines at 1.02 pm on July 1, 2003, by becoming the first regional radio station in Irish broadcasting history.

Since then, Beat has become a household name across the South East. Since 2003, it has consistently increased its audience reach and share, with 159,000 people tuning in every week* and close to 900,000 people following online.

Head of Station Sound and Beat Breakfast presenter Niall Power said: “We’ve been sparking ‘water-cooler’ conversations for the last 18 years and one of the highlights for us is coming up with the next big idea to present to our listeners.”

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New Beauty

Simply Skin

Laser and Beauty

Ailish Laser and Skincare celebrated 24 years of keeping Kilkenny beautiful last March. In addition to traditional beauty salon services such as tanning and waxing you will find an expert skincare clinic and a state of the art laser clinic in the heart of Kilkenny City. Laser is the modern alternative to shaving and waxing. Safe and inexpensive, it gives longer lasting results.

What’s not to love?

STARTING a business is a challenge at the best of times, never mind during a pandemic. Owner Lorraine Tinney has many years of experience in the beauty and laser industries. With this knowledge, expertise and a lot of bravery she was able to realise her dream of opening a laser and beauty clinic last September.

Simply Skin are dedicated to providing a professional service. Experience a luxurious and welcoming ambience in this new and exciting five star laser and beauty clinic in the heart of Kilkenny City. Lorraine and her team of highly qualified therapists will look after your skin and beauty needs with expert service.

Simply Skin opened on Friary Street last September. In addition to the daunting uncertainty around Covid, Lorraine was faced with additional challenges caused by Brexit which resulted in difficulties sourcing furniture and equipment. Open, then closed again, then open for Christmas before been closed again until recently, Lorraine credits the support of the community in getting the business through; “Locals were great, the repeat business really gave us the support and encouragement we needed to keep going. I love being on Friary Street, the neighbouring businesses have been so supportive and helpful with anything we needed.” Having the perseverance to power through the most difficult times indicates only good things for the future of Simply Skin Lorraine is a highly experienced professional, she is CIDESCO, ITEC and CIBTAC qualified and also teaches

these qualifications at the Sharon Leavy Academy in Portlaoise. Being both an employer and an educator certainly benefits both the business and her students. As a business owner Lorraine is able to teach her students how to apply the technical skills they learn, to the real life working world. As an educator, Lorraine ensures her own employees are always up to date with the latest developments in the beauty industry.

“Professional development is hugely important in the beauty industry, I want to make sure Simply Skin is always able to offer the most up to date services to our clients.”.

Molly Travers who is now manager at Simply Skin completed her qualifications with Lorraine at one of

the top beauty schools in Ireland. Out of fifteen girls Molly was hand-picked

by Lorraine for her passion, drive and 360° approach to beauty. Instilling the knowledge she learnt to motivate her clients to feel better in their skin is key for her as a therapist. Molly specialises in all things brows including tint and shape but also brow lamination which is the latest trend in beauty treatments.

Brow Lamination is a semipermanent treatment that gives instantly thicker looking brows.

At Simply Skin, Dion Fleming is a fully qualified therapist who specialises in eyelash extensions.

She can do amazing coloured lash extensions in an array of colours which will be very popular once we can get back to festival season. She also offers lower lash extensions which is not something many salons can do. Dion also specialises in pedicures, manicures and callus peels. Her gel nail extensions will give you the perfect pop of colour for summer.

The Manicure Company and Semilac are both used by Simply Skin. A full make-up service is also available

and the team can’t wait to help you get glammed up for a night of outdoor dining (for now!)

Lorraine is the Laser expert and services available include hair removal, thread vein removal, rosacea reduction and skin rejuvenation. Also offered is Microdermabrasion, a non-invasive facial skin treatment.

A diamond tip wand is used to sand away the very top level of skin. The machine’s vacuum system sucks away dirt,

debris and dead skin cells. It minimises large pores and helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Microdermabrasion will reduce pigmentation irregularities and acne scars and can be a hugely beneficial treatment for a range of skin types. She is also highly qualified in massage therapy for full body treatment.

Irish women are one of the world’s biggest consumers of fake tan. Knowing this, Simply Skin decided to choose Vita Liberata as their supplier of spray tan.

Vita Liberata is a top quality tan which contains ingredients that care for the skin. The spray tan always looks natural with a streak free fade. Founded in 2007 it is a trusted brand of tan and receives only positive reviews from clients. There is no bad smell, stickiness or tangerine tones. Vita Liberata has become well known as being an innovative leader in the skincare and tanning world.

Simply Skin offer a complimentary full skin consultation to first determine your skin type and any skin issues or concerns. Your therapist will then put together a tailor made skincare plan using the highly respected Dermalogica products. There is a full menu of Dermalogica Facials available to address any skin problems.

Dermalogica is focused on skin health rather than just the superficial look of skin. Simply Skin don’t just care about how skin looks, but also how it feels. The team want to help clients feel better and more confident in their own skin. Skin positivity is the ethos.

It is clear Lorraine and her team love what they do. “We help clients solve a whole range of skin issues at an affordable price. There is great satisfaction in knowing you have helped a person feel more confident in their skin and therefore more confident in life.” The salon itself is bright, airy and spacious with plenty of luxurious touches including a shower-room. With wide doorways and no steps the salon is accessible for everyone.

You can visit the online shop at www.simply-skin.ie to view the full range of Dermalogica products stocked. Give Simply Skin a follow on Facebook and Instagram @ simplyskinkilkenny. Visit the website or call 087 4097600 for more information or to make an appointment. You can also email info@simply-skin.ie.

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New Beauty

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

Community Group

The house of pretzels story with Stefan Cadare

Life in Ireland and how to build up a great business

BY CRISTINA MUSAT

IRELAND-ROMANIA BUSINESS RELATIONS The Embassy plays an important role in fostering the strong and close relationship that exists between Ireland and Romania in the political, economic, and cultural fields. The two Governments cooperate closely on many issues, particularly as partners in the EU, where we continue to work in solidarity with one another and with our fellow EU Member States to ensure a full and sustainable economic recovery in both countries and in the Union as a whole.

The relationship also en-

joys a series of two-way high-level visits, including the State Visit to Romania by the former President of Ireland, Mary McAleese, in September 2008.

THE HOUSE OF PRETZELS – STORY WITH STEFAN CADARE We had a lovely conversation with Stefan about how he started his business and how smooth and easily was the process.

We asked Stefan a few questions to tell us what he did and what he received when he started to develop his business.

Stefan told Cristina there are some great investor and entrepreneur programmes available for non-Irish nationals, for example, the Immigrant Investor Programme or STEP and the Citizens’ Information website are

useful to find out how to gain access, but more can be arranged. His advice to someone moving to Ireland to embrace it and trust your instincts. Most importantly it is vital to treat everyone you encounter with respect and courtesy.

When Asked why Ireland “I think Ireland is a more favourable place to do business than many countries. It is easy to set up a company, and open bank accounts provided all your documentation is in the right order.”

Says Stefan. Also, he received plenty of support, Overall, for Stefan to open his business in Ireland is very satisfying.

Taking the leap into business ownership leads you through the gamut of emotions, from exciting to terrifying, all at once. Before finalizing your decision to

opening your own business, take the time to review the consumer need for your product or services, as well as your ability to fulfil that need. At the same time, consider the advantages as well as the disadvantages of owning your own company.

One big enticement for business ownership is reaping the bigger financial rewards. Successful business owners can make more money for the risks they take. Business owners enjoy lifestyle flexibility because they are creating their own schedule. This looks different for everyone, but it often includes the ability to attend kids’ school and sports functions, take vacations when desired and adjust a work week to accommodate other personal needs.

Building a new business that becomes successful

provides business owners tremendous personal satisfaction. For some, the business becomes the pursuit of a life-long dream. It allows individuals to grow beyond a particular skill set and to learn business and leadership skills that provide continued personal growth, pride and fulfilment.

The downside? losing money is one of the biggest risks of owning a business. There are start-up costs, monthly obligations. Costs vary, and many business owners take out a loan when starting a business, which means they are in debt from day one, while also trying to generate revenues High levels of stress as well as health issues. Not having a consistent paycheck means experience significant variations in monthly income and have potentially higher debt ac-

cumulation. Starting a business requires a time commitment.

In conclusion to start up a business can be rewarded but you need to take in consideration above aspects.

We would like to thank Stefan and the House of Pretzels for all information because they have let us discover how to start up a business in Ireland and how to maintain it. We wish you all the best and hope to have a close relationship between Twilight Community and all small business here in Kilkenny and Ireland, we are inviting all owners to share their thoughts and encourage them to let us to go inside the scene.

The article is supported by the Romanian Twilight Community Group. Contact: kclw.ro@twilight.ie

Bacon maple ice cream Yep, you read that right!

Where else other than Cakeface in Irishtown would you expect to find this combo?

A

trip to Cakeface’s new Pop-Up Ice Cream Parlour, offers an array of made in-house toppings, from meringues to mint crunch, caramelised nuts to maple bacon crumble and everything in between.

This is a truly unique experience that promises to enhance any mood whether on a trip down the new Riverside Garden in the Abbey Quarter or strolling, ice-cream in-hand, through the city.

If ice cream isn’t your craving,

call in to the Café and grab a coffee made from their own roasted beans or sneak a peak at the roasting process in full swing in the roastery.

Cakeface Patisserie is the brainchild of pastry chef duo Laura & Rory Gannon.

Returning home after years working with some of the best pastry teams in France and London, namely The Savoy and Café Royal, Laura & Rory wanted to create their own special brand in Ireland.

Cakeface was born out of the

desire to create unique, quirky and unusual cakes pastries and desserts. Cakeface specialise in the unexpected and delicious, their range of desserts is designed to wow and surprise.

Laura and Rory are constantly experimenting with new and unusual flavours, ingredients and modern techniques, to ensure that their creations astound and delight.

Cakeface Patisserie, 16 Irishtown, Kilkenny tel: 056 7739971 email: info@ cakeface.ie

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Feature

“You’ll want more than tea and ye going to play Tipperary!”

Heading for the Village in a Trap.

Bill Hennessy Tullaroan, chauffeurs Dick Walsh in a horse and trap.

The three Dick Walsh’s from Tullaroan

Pictured at The Lory Meagher centre in Tullaroan are: Mick Walsh, Dick Walsh, Paddy Clohossy, and Frankie Walsh

It doesn’t fall to many people in a generation to be recognised by a short version of their name or a nickname. Internationally, the names JFK and Mother Teresa easily conjure up images.

Nationally, the names Dev and Peig are also examples which inspire easy recall EDITED EDITEDAND AND COMPILED COMPILED BY:

BY GER CODY GER CODY

IN Kilkenny, similar recognition tends to be associated with hurling or camogie. The names Fan, Pa and D.J. conjure up familiar faces. Enquire

about the Twins and you’ll be asked “Is it Angela and Ann?” The late Dick Walshe of Tullaroan fell into this category.

He was known to all as Dick of the Church. The church in question is the 17th century ruin called Grace’s Church after the builder whose family held the nearby Courtstown

Castle for over 500 years. The Walshe family farm is adjacent to the church and, for well over a century, Walshes of the Church have been distinguished from other Walshes with this distinctive address.

STEEPED IN HISTORY Dick’s family was steeped in

the history of Tullaroan. His grandfather Edmond was secretary of the local Land League branch and was jailed for agrarian activities.

His grandmother, Mary Josephine, was secretary of the local branch of the Ladies’ Land League. When Charles Stewart Parnell canvassed

for the North Kilkenny byelection in December 1890 he broke his journey from Callan to Tullaroan with a visit to the Walshe family home. The family has in its possession, to this day, a medal, one of three, left by Parnell to Dick’s mother Dorothy and her two sisters that day.

RESPECT FOR TIPP’’ EXCEPT WHEN PLAYING THEM Dorothy, married Larry Walshe who won a county title with New Bermingham in Tipperary which meant Dick had a close affinity with the Premier County and a high regard for the people of Tipperary except,

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Feature and cigarettes for him and the other prisoners.

Politics was a lifelong interest for Dick. He recalled a different, bitter time when local politics was partisan. He remembered collecting for Fianna Fáil outside the parish church when the table holding the box was kicked down the street by none other than the local parish priest.

Dick Walshe with Kilkenny Hurler Tommy Walsh pictured in Tullaroan with the Mac Carthy cup

part of the United Kingdom; a Tullaroan man, Michael Meagher of Rathmacan, was M.P. for North Kilkenny in the House of Commons and Bishop Abraham Brownrigg was Bishop of Ossory.

Family affair: Dick and his wife Kitty pictured with family members Dor and Richie.

of course, when they were playing Kilkenny. In fact, Dick’s father, Larry, holds a unique place in hurling annals in that he played with the American Invasion team of 1911. When their game against Limerick came around, the Americans were short a number of players because of injuries in earlier games. Pierce Purcell of Johnstown recruited Tullaroan’s Sim Walton and Larry Walshe to play with the Americans.

Dick was a mine of information on events which happened prior to his birth because early

TIMES PAST In Kilkenny in 1918 you could have cold luncheons and afternoon tea in the newly opened “Royal Tea Rooms” on High St. You could attend the cinema with a choice of seats from 4d., 8d., 1s. or have a balcony seat for 1s. 3d.

However, change was coming. The tricolour was now seen more often than the Union Jack. Ten days before Dick’s birth the leader of the Irish Party, John Redmond, died in London and a week after Dick’s birth a large meeting took place in Tullaroan to form a branch of Sinn Fein. We hope the new born baby in The Church, not far from the village, wasn’t disturbed that day by the “loud and prolonged cheers” which greeted the speakers.

in his life he spoke to witnesses and remembered what they had to say or to others who had heard the details and passed them down. He had a story connecting Walshes of the Church to the 1798 Rebellion.

He told us that the field where the new school was built in Ballybeigh is the Yellow Meal Field because it was exchanged for a bag of yellow meal during the famine. He remembered seeing a Famine Pot in Kerwick’s of Oldtown.

Dick was born on 15 March 1918 when Ireland was still

ENCOUNTERED THE BLACK AND TANS One of Dick’s earliest memories was of seeing the Black and Tans in his farmyard in 1921.

This frightening situation is not something which a young boy was likely to forget and happened on 13 May. This was the day of the Knocknagress ambush when two volunteers, Sean Quinn and Pat Walsh, lost their lives in the fight for Irish freedom close to Tullaroan village. So Dick was a link with that important day in Tullaroan’s history.

As a young boy Dick would have seen Tullaroan policed by the Royal Irish Constabulary.

Later as a five year old boy, he saw the first Gardai arrive in 1923.

On the kitchen wall in the family home is an old print of General Liam Lynch in the uniform of Chief of Staff of the

IRA. Dick’s admiration for the War of Independence patriots wasn’t confined to one side.

He had equal admiration for Michael Collins and had a fascinating connection with the death of the Big Fellow at Béal na mBláth as his cousin, Edmond Foley, was a driver in the Collins travelling party that fateful day. Of course, Dick had his own theory about who fired the fatal shot but that revelation must wait for another day.

FIRST COUNTY FINAL In September 1925, Dick attended his first county final and saw his native Tullaroan beat Dicksboro by 3-4 to 3-3 in the Freshford Road grounds.

Little did he think that day that he would become president of Tullaroan Hurling club and reign well into the 21st century.

KILKENNY GAOL DEMOLISHED As well as farming, Dick held other jobs during his lifetime one of which was helping to demolish Kilkenny Jail. When asked if he enjoyed his work, he said: “I enjoyed that one anyway because my grandfather was a prisoner there!”

LDF CALLED TO THE BORDER In the 1940s Dick joined the LDF, the Local Defence Force.

One year they were training in Tramore when word came through that the army had been called from the Curragh Camp to the border. So the LDF were detailed to go the Curragh to guard the barracks and the IRA prisoners. The money was good and Dick volunteered.

While there he met the late Con O’Shea who was a “Guest of the Nation”. The pair became lifelong friends when Con later settled in Kilkenny. One day Con called over another Kerryman who was also a guest of the state. It turned out to be the famed footballer John Joe Sheehy. Dick befriended him and often brought in sweets

STRAIGHT TALKING MAN Dick was also proud of the fact that Tullaroan often produced politicians to represent Kilkenny even though he may not have voted for all of them.

Indeed he admitted as much when President Mary Robinson officially opened the Lory Meagher Heritage Centre in 1994. As she entered the avenue up to the house, Dick was one of the first to step forward and shake hands with her and said: “You’re welcome to Tullaroan.

I didn’t vote for you but there’ll be another day!”

While Dick had an opinion on all topics of the day, hurling was the subject dearest to his heart.

The first All Ireland final he attended was the second replay of the famous 3 game saga to settle the 1931 decider eventually won by Cork.

The following year Kilkenny beat Clare in the final. Dick remembered meeting his schoolmaster, Mr. Brennan, on the pitch after the game when their neighbour, Lory Meagher, introduced them to the bespectacled Clare hurler John Joe “Goggles” Doyle.

TEA! YOU WANT TEA? Dick cycled to Killarney for the 1937 All Ireland final. That year he had to suffer the Tipperary taunts not just in Killarney but all the way home as he cycled back through the county. The rivalry was long in existence.

He recalled a story about a Tullaroan team in the early years heading over to Urlingford to play a team from Tipperary.

They were to meet at his grandmother’s house in Rathealy and some of them asked her to make tea. “Tea!” she exclaimed.

“Tea is it? And ye going to hurl Tipperary!”

That story features in the book “Hell for Leather”, written

by Dermot Crowe and Ronnie Bellew and published in 2014.

Since Kilkenny’s climb to the top of the Roll of Honour, many hurling journalists made their way to The Church to interview Dick. He appeared on national television and in the Sunday newspapers with tales from the old days and opinions on modern times.

Dick was on the Tullaroan team which won the 1948 senior hurling championship and he was a selector when Tullaroan won again in 1958.

He was a supporter when Tullaroan last won the championship in 1994 and derived great pleasure from the celebrations which followed.

He featured in the acclaimed series “The Game” broadcast on RTE1 in 2019. Time and again Dick was prevailed upon in his interviews to name a team of the past as the great-

est but he kept returning to the modern era as the greatest hurling he had seen. He might have been a little biased as a neighbour’s child, Tommy Walsh, was one of the great stars of the present day. In fact Dick supplied Tommy with a plank of ash for his first senior All Ireland final appearance in 2003.

DEATH OF DICK AND KITTY. Dick passed away on May 27, 2019 aged 101. His loss was all the more poignant as he was predeceased only a week before, on the 21st, by his beloved wife Kitty. She was a member of the Lalor family from Urlingford. They made a supportive couple as they ran their farm together and reared their family for over fifty years.

Kitty was ahead of her time as a farmer and displayed a particular capability in animal husbandry. Cattle marts are not for the faint hearted but Kitty and, her friend Mrs Crowley, were often the only women in Kilkenny mart buying calves while Dick was working in Avonmore. She was wise to the basics of buying well and the principle of value. Her hospitality was legendary especially in retirement as visitors queued up for an interview with Dick but if there was a doubt about any fact or date it was Kitty who cleared it up. If chastisement was needed she wasn’t shy either. On the Sunday prior to the 2012 All Ireland final, Tommy Walsh was at Mass in Tullaroan with his father when in beside them came Dick of the Church. As Tommy recounted later, even though Kitty was scowling across at the two of them, there wasn’t much praying done as Dick and he hurled their way through Mass that day.

Dick and Kitty were a wonderful team in life and were only separated for a week in death. Leaba ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh acu.

ONLY ONE DICK OF THE CHURCH Over the years, if a visitor to Tullaroan village enquired for Dick Walshe’s house, he or she was asked: “Which of them do you want?” However, if they asked for “Dick of the Church,” they were directed immediately to Huntstown. There were numerous Dick Walshes but only one Dick of the Church.

SOURCES: Text and research Ned Kennedy. Thanks also to Kilkenny Archaeological Society, “Sunday Serendipity”, Pat Shortall, Community radio Kilkenny.

Special word of thanks to Frankie Walsh for photos

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New poems I

N 2019, ‘The Kilkenny Involvement Centre’ published a book of poems with the wonderful title ‘Poems from a Kilkenny Laneway’.

The ninety page publication features forty poems with contributions from members at the centre as well as work from Kilkenny’s wider writing community.

In conjunction with The Involvement Centre, The Kilkenny Observer newspaper will reproduce these poems over the coming weeks.

The Kilkenny Observer is delighted to promote this project and we hope you enjoy the poems.

Week three poems come from Bridget Cody, Eoin Coffey and Frances Cotter

Night Dust Night dust settles on an empty field Wild mice cast shadows on the thorns and leaves In the milk and honey of a lone beam And the night’s already won Nights like these are a slow blur of indigo Dreamy blues will take you from your home To the far off corners of your spinning globe And the night’s already won The moon like a wounded paper crane Folds once down the middle, then back again Framed inside your window pane And the night’s already won Dusk descends as a welcome friend And a world unknown reveals itself Wings, gold strings and dappled things And the night’s already won Street cats roam and a drunk walks home Through the rain and the winding cobblestone Now he owns these streets, they are his kingdom come And the night’s already won And the night’s already won Bridget Cody

Names

Link

Let me be Kurt Frank and to the point Not tryin’ to be Sly Cuttin’ right to the Chase Not to Skip the facts Or go over the Cliff While walkin’ down the Ward Usin’ your very own Will Playing on the Tom While you Dash on the Rocks Bein’ Rich in Spirit With just a Buck Solid as a Rock Which is the Norm While leavin’ your Mark Flyin’ down the Glen Just to Rob your time And Grant your wishes While wearin’ blue Jeans So it won’t Peter out While signin’ the Bill of Rights During the Art of War Livin’ in a state of Grace Just in the Nick of Time Without bein’ a Door Matt Holdin’ the Lance in combat While Collecting the Precious Pearl With a Chip on your Shoulder The Hood Cap is up While travellin’ for Miles And obtainin’ the Mason skills While you Wade through the Swamp

I secure the billowing clothes to the line, pegs between my lips.

Through the window I watched you expertly filling a line shuffling and pulling against you pegs clamped in your mouth.

It was a habit I thought old fashioned, unnecessary; a housekeeper’s way.

Now those whitened, worn pegs are as precious as a touch of your fingertips.

My lips impress upon those anchoring hinges that knew your lips too.

Link to our last kiss when, in my house, I helplessly gave you mouth to mouth frantic lips on still ones.

Frances Cotter

Eoin Coffey

Artwork courtesy of Marie O’Driscoll

Photo by Task Camera Club Kilkenny

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

New Café

PENNYFEATHER COFFEE & KITCHEN

Same Same...but different, Pennyfeather on High Street has been reimagined with a fresh take on the hugely successful Kilkenny establishment that has been around for over 30 years

ABOVE The Book Centre on High Street is the location of the new Pennyfeather café. It is bright, plush and very cool.

Pennyfeather is a visual delight and it is clear an immense amount of thought and attention to detail has been put into the refurbishment.

An Instagrammers dream – the decor includes graphic pink wallpaper and industrial lampshades which are perfectly juxtaposed against the original wooden beams and art deco style floor tiles. “Same Same but different” in glowing neon pink adorns the wall above the coffee machine, reassuring customers this is the same Pennyfeather they know and love, just reignited in a new way. In this age of social media the power of a tag and a share can’t be underestimated so including these photogenic features was a wise move.

The guys that took over Pennyfeather say they saw a great opportunity in the midst of Covid19; “The world pandemic has changed everyone’s way of thinking and working. We saw this as a great opportunity to add a new exciting space for the people of Kilkenny and all visitors and tourists to come.

Knowing the great success of the business and the perfect location in the heart of Kilkenny city it was an opportunity we could not turn our backs on. We would like to thank Celine (the

previous owner) for this amazing opportunity and wish her all the best for the future.” They have added an outdoor dining space with room for up to 10 tables which is a completely new dynamic to Pennyfeather but definitely necessary and will only add to the great vibe and energy in Kilkenny city centre.

Pennyfeather is all about great coffee, the worldwide trend that appears to be here to stay. The house coffee is a specialised blend from Trá Coffee Roasters in Tramore. “We tried Trá Coffee in another café in Kilkenny and instantly fell in love. Immediately we knew the texture and taste was the right fit for us. We got

in contact with Tom Weldon, owner of Trá Coffee Roasters. He created an expert blend that is exclusive to Pennyfeather”. The coffee is rich and nutty, full of flavour and hits the spot.

When creating the menu, the move towards a healthier lifestyle was kept in mind with options like the rustic chicken salad

sandwich or a smoothie bowl.

Those that have been missing the famous Penny Fry need not worry though as it’s still on the menu! There is something for everyone including kids who are considered by the Pennyfeather team to be just as important as the adults.

Pennyfeather’s ethos is evident with an obvious effort to support Irish businesses by using exclusively Irish and mainly local suppliers. C.J. O’Loughlin Quality Foods based in Wexford supplies most of the produce. Sweet treats come from a Kilkenny based company, The Cookie Co Op. All the take-away items are 100% compostable and are supplied

by Down2Earth Materials from Cork. There is a contactless and paperless loyalty card system in place facilitated by Squid which is an Irish owned and developed loyalty app. Supporting Irish business has never been more important; “Coronavirus has affected us all both mentally and physically but also financially. It’s important to contribute to getting Ireland back on it’s feet as a place to visit so that both businesses and people can prosper after a

tough, unprecedented time.”

As well as supporting Irish business, Pennyfeather supports Irish artists with a dedicated exhibition wall. It is a space for artists to show their work for a 2 to 3 month time period which will hopefully result in a few sales. Customers can purchase their chosen piece in Pennyfeather but 100% of the payment goes to the artist with no commission taken by the café. Kevin King is currently the artist with work on display. He is a Dublin born, Kilkenny based print artist who specialises in pen and ink drawings on a variety of subjects but most notably his dreamy cityscapes of Kilkenny. Dropping in for a coffee and a look at some great art is highly recommended.

It is fantastic to see a fresh and innovative business like Pennyfeather emerging in Kilkenny. Predicted to become one of the city’s busiest coffee spots, be sure to follow Pennyfeather on Facebook and Instagram @pennyfeathercoffee and pop in for a look next time you pass.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

Picture special Ken and Liz Kinsella and Bellathe dog

Sinead Hehir and Ray Pierick

Kevin Casey with his bird Frieda

t u o b A nny Out &

WITH

Da rt Laha

Brendan Kiely

Patrick, Christopher, Christine and Conor Mcloughlin

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Picture special

JB Vendamme feeding a little Robin

Stephen Clarke Jonboy Wallace Sarah Kennedy, Martin Treacy,Liam McEvoy, Gar Reidy

Great to see the Kilkenny torist train back around town

Mary and Mingha Flannery

Bernie and John fromDublin enjoying a weekend away in Kilkenny

Ber and Pierce Scott

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

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Community & GAA Notes

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news CLARA GAA A BRIDGE TOO FAR Clara seniors were well beaten by Bennettsbridge in the St. Canices Credit Union Senior Hurling League in Clara on Thursday evening. The first quarter was even enough until a late Bridge goal and a point left them 1-6 to 0-5 ahead at the break.

Clara didn’t score in the second quarter while the Bridge added 3 points to increase their lead to 1-9 to 0-5. They continued to dominate for the second half and the game petered out long before the final whistle sounded, with Bennettsbridge 1-18 to 0-10 ahead. In a lacklustre performance Conor O Shea, Chris Bolger and Martin O Connell offered most resistance for Clara.

Team - Kevin Nolan, Paddy Bolger, Jack Langton, Bill Carrigan. John Murphy, David Langton, Gary Kehoe. Lester Ryan, Conor O Shea 0-1, Stephen Quinlan 0-1,Martin O Connell 0-2, 0-1f, Jim Kehoe. Chris Bolger 0-6, 0-5f, Rory O Keeffe, Liam Ryan 0-1.

Subs used James Casey, Tom Ryan.

JUNIOR D St. Martins had the upper hand in their meeting with Clara on Sunday in Clara.

But to illustrate how quickly a game of hurling can change, Clara were awarded three 21 yard frees in the last 5 minutes. All three were kept out, the last one by Noel Kehoe with the help of a post. But in truth if Clara had scored two of those and stolen the win, it would have been rough justice on St. Martins, who were slightly better throughout. They scored ten points from play to Clara’s 1-1, which was a reflection of their superiority.

Conor Cody was the only scorer for the losers in a 0-14 to 1-7 result. Clara could not be faulted for effort but they just didn’t have the firepower to trouble the Saints.

Best for Clara were Evan Whearty, Dermot Nolan, Padraig Staunton, Alan Coleman and Conor Cody.

Team - Bill Cody, John Brennan, Evan Whearty, Nick O Keeffe. Noelie O Brien, Dermot Nolan, Padraig Staunton. Conor Phelan, Conor Booth. Alan Coleman, Mick McDonald, Adam Barcoe. Conor Cody 1-7, 0-6f, Boru Bergin, Noel Kehoe. Sub used Brandon Ryan.

MINORS SUFFER TOUGH LOSS Clara minors had their first home game of the year on Monday of last week when Mooncoin made the long journey north.

Both teams had won their first games and were anxious to keep it going. It was Clara who enjoyed the better start with an early Rory Glynn goal keeping their noses in front until just before the water break, when a Mooncoin goal left the teams level at the sos uisce. Parity was retained at half time at 1-6 each.

Two Harry Boyle points and one from Sean Carrigan edged Clara two clear again in the early stages of the second half but Mooncoin responded with 1-2 of their own to regain the initiative. A late Clara surge came up just short and the final whistle sounded with the visitors 2-10 to 1-12 ahead.

This was a game which could quite easily have gone either way and Clara could consider themselves slightly unlucky. But these are the games when you need to find a way to win, and this young side will learn how to get over the line in such situations.

It certainly wasn’t lack of effort that cost them here anyway.

Team - Cian Kelly, Alex McDonald, Ben Crow, Alex Firbank. Tommy Delaney, Zach Lawlor, Ben Murphy. Harry Boyle 0-2, Conor Hoyne. Ned Langton, Sean Carrigan 0-1, Eoin Corr. Rory Glynn 1-8,0-4f, Jamie Agar, David Barcoe 0-1. Subs used Luke Lawlor.

U15s BOUNCE BACK Clara’s U15 hurlers recovered from their opening day loss to record a relatively easy victory over Mount Leinster Rangers in Clara last Wednesday evening. The relocation of David Barcoe to centre back really shored up the winner’s defence and the forwards took most of their chances

to put this game to bed early. The Rangers had given as good as they got for most of the first half, but still found themselves 11 points adrift at the interval, as Clara took most of the chances that came their way.

Both teams more or less doubled their first half tallies in the second half, with two John Bergin goals in the fourth quarter really embellishing the scoreline. It finished 4-20 to 0-6. However a game Mt. Leinster Rangers side are not nearly as bad as the result would indicate.

Team - Sean Cooke, Daniel Ryan, James Cody, Alex Firbank. Dillon Cummins, Davy Barcoe 0-1, Philip Carrigan. Hugh Kelly, Tommy Delaney 0-2. Conor Hoyne 0-12, 0-4f, 2x65s, Luke Lawlor, Eoin Corr 0-1. Bill Kealy, Liam Carrigan, Joe Power 2-3. Subs used John Bergin 2-0, Tom Murphy, Tom Boyle, Sean Byrne, Daniel Murphy.

U13s WIN AGAIN Clara U13s had another easy win over Carlow opposition in Clara on Friday evening. 3-12 to 0-4 was the margin on this occasion as Naomh Bríd were unable to match a free flowing Clara outfit.

Team -Mícheál Meaney, Ruairí Bowden Mullen, Lukas Healy, Darragh Kenny, Peter Firbank, Orí Phelan, Sam Lawlor, Padraic Meaney , Jack Murphy, David Lannen, Niall McCarthy, Dara Leamy, Jim Carrigan, Aidan O’Connell, Adam Lakes.

Subs: Sam Corr, Ollie Butler, Ciaran Gibbons, Liam Treacy.

CAMOGIE The Clara senior camogie team prepared for the new season with an easy victory over a very understrength Ballyhale Shamrocks on Sunday of last week in Ballyhale. Team - Rachel Whelan 0-1, Anna Walpole, Aine McDonald, Katie Ryan.

Tamsin English, Claire Nolan 1-3, Laoise Nolan. Aisling Nolan 0-2, Rebecca Nolan 0-1. Gráinne Glynn 1-2, Niamh Ward 0-1, Keara Ryan 0-10, 0-2f, 1x45, Emma Shortall 1-3, Siobhan Curtis 1-4, Aoife Glynn 1-0.

The U14s suffered their first defeat this Summer in their Round 3 league match v Ballyhale Shamrocks in Ballyhale on Wed 23rd June. A strong, balanced Ballyhale team put it up to the Clara girls and up to the final quarter it was still anybody’s game. After the second water break, Clara reshuffled the team following a Clara injury. The coaches were again delighted with the determination shown by the Clara players, especially some of the younger squad members who really stepped up.

However Ballyhale proved too strong and with a couple of late goals sealed the win.

Final score Clara 1-5 Ballyhale 5-5. Clara team -Ava Kenny, Katie Boyd, Maria Hogan, Caragh Brennan, Onagh Fitzgerald, Sarah Dunne, Ceola Leamy, Pia Langton, Lucy Boyd, Katie O’Connell, Jessica Brennan, Aisling Hayes, Aoibhe Callery, Danica Tervit-Krueger, Amy Lynch, Faye Morrissey, Aoibheann McDonald, Lucy Kealy, Moya Kelly, Brooke Flynn, Amy Bergin(inj).

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS O’LOUGHLIN GAELS LOTTO The O’Loughlin Gaels Club Lotto has topped €16000 and rising. The draw takes place every Tuesday evening. All proceeds will fund maintenance and development of facilities at St. Johns Park.

Buy your ticket at www.oloughlingaels. com/lotto Thank you for your continued support CLUB SUPPORT. We wish to wish all our players the very best of luck for their upcoming games.

From u6 to minor, junior D to senior, to all our boys and girls, for club and county.

Please support all our teams and our club sponsors.

KILKENNY VOLUNTEER CENTRE Newly established Kilkenny Volunteer Centre : www.volunteerkilkenny.ie Recruiting for Kilkenny Welcome Volunteers / Ambassadors for Summer Months.

If you love Kilkenny and passionate about helping visitors around the city please get

in touch.

Call 08087 116 5658 or email info@ volunteerkilkenny.ie FRESHFORD CONGRATS MICK Special Congratulations go out to Local Cllr Mick McCarthy who was recently elected Vice Chairman of Kilkenny County Council.

This is a great achievement for the local Councillor and all the work he has been doing for the people and area since his election to the Council and he is wished all the best in his new role.

JOHN QUINLAN RIP The death occurred recently of John Quinlan late of The Rock, Threecastles . The deceased who was in his 70s was a member of a widely known and respected family. A quiet and inoffensive gentleman he had been unwell in recent times. Funeral mass took place in Tulla Church followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. He is mourned by his brother, sisters, nieces, nephews and extended family to whom deepest sympathy is extended.

Michelle Killeen who is granddaughter of the late Peggy Dowling. Presentation was made to the winning captains on the day by camogie stalwart Ann Dalton and Paula Murphy (nee Dowling). A huge thanks was paid to the organisers, mentors, referees and the Dowling family for their generous sponsorship of the trophies and medals.

Local St.Lachtains player Lydia Fitzpatrick was part of the Kilkenny Senior Camogie Panel which beat Tipperary recently in the League Semi-final. Lydia was on the bench but played a big part when introduced the previous week.

Well done to the local girls who represented Kilkenny U14s at the weekend Michelle Killeen, Katelyn O’Connor and Abigail Whitty and also to Emma Daly, Caoimhe Hickey, Tara Kenny Launders, Ava Dermody, Mary Bolger and Edel Martin who took part in Kilkenny U15 Development.

BRONZE MEDAL Congrats to Eva Holmes who got a Bronze medal recently at Cork Agricultural Virtual show – Murmurs of a Summer day.

TWINS Congratulations to proud parents Eoin and Carol Bergin of Inch Freshford on the birth of their twins, a boy and a girl last weekend at St..Lukes Hospital, Kilkenny.

5K CHAMP Congrats to local lady Claire Dermody who won the Senior Ladies 5k county Championship recently – a member of Kilkenny City harriers.

WORKS Local Cllr Michael McCarthy is delighted that macadam overlay and associated works have taken place at Clashacrow and Saar Road Freshford also on the LS5010 at Ballinamara. These works will be of huge benefit to the residents and road users.

Great credit is due to the Area Engineer and his staff for their efforts

SOCCER NEWS Freshford boys took on Highview B on Thursday evening last and came out 4-0 winners.

Training for 5-8 year olds which was held each Saturday morning at the sportsfield at Woodview has ceased for the summer holidays and will resume in September .

Freshford Junior side have been drawn against Thomastown B in the Cup competition. They are drawn against top of the league side Freebooters A in the McCalmount cup competition. Another tough encounter.

BAPTISMS Congrats to Breda and Shane McGree, the proud parents of Harry McGree of Millars Lodge Freshford who was baptised recently at St.Lachtains Church Freshford Also baby Abbi Long of Garnamanagh baptised St.Lachtains Church recently and congrats to the proud parents Denis and Catriona.

DEATH The death occurred last weekend of James (Jim ) Walsh Rathbeagh following a short illness. He was widely known and respected in the locality. He was predeceased by his wife Mary and his daughter Mary Beth. Funeral Mass took place in Clontubrid Church on Sunday morning last followed by burial in Rathbeagh Cemetary. He is mourned by his sons, daughters, grandchildren, great grandchildlren, daughters in law, sons in law, brother, brothers in law, sisters in law, nieces, nephews and extended family to whom deepest sympathy is extended.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Mrs. Pattie McCarthy of Buncrussia St., Freshford on the recent death of her brother in law IRISH FARMERS MONTHLY Local girl Anne Marie Butler Walsh was featured recently in this month’s Irish Farmers monthly. Anne Marie from Cooleshall, Freshford was elected President of the Association recently and she said this was a wonderful opportunity to showcase Agricultural science association and it was great to detail achievements across her Presidency and Conference 2021 plans.

FITNESS CLASSES Fitness classes are resuming outdoors on Mondays and Wednesday evenings catering for all levels of fitness. Individual and group sessions available also. For further information please contact Tommy on 083 1069291 CAMOGIE NEWS The Peggy Dowling camogie tournament was held in Pairc Lachtain last week . Four teams took part in the competition. The winning team captained by Grace Cleere and the shield winners were captained by

GAA NEWS St Lachtains Intermediate hurlers had a hard fought win by the narrowest of margins over Dunamaggin in the second round of the all county league on Thursday evening last Played in very tough conditions the local lads ran out winners by the narrowest of margins on a final scoreline of 1-17 to 1-16. No intermediate league on this Thursday.

On Saturday evening last the Junior B hurlers continued their winning start to the season with a victory over James Stephens. A tough game throughout saw the local lads come out on the right side of a 0-16pt to 1-12 scoreline. Next up for this team is a trip to Tullogher on Thursday evening with throw in at 7.45pm Meanwhile on Sunday evening the Junior F side had a two point victory over Glenmore in game played at Pairc Lachtain and meet Dickboro in their next game.

Upcoming fixture –Thursday – Jnr B –v-Tullogher at 7.45pm Friday U13—v Burren Rangers at Pairc Lachtain at 7.30pm Sunday - Junior F –v- Dicksboro at Palmerstown at 7pm.

KINANE & McGREE TOURNAMENTS The annual Philip Kinane Cup and Colin McGree Shield Tournaments were held recently at Pairc Lachtain. Four teams participated with Jack Dalton’s team, Jamie Denieffe’s team, Colin McGree’s and Cian Donnelly’s all in action. The finals took place on Bank Holiday Monday.

The Colin McGree shield final played first saw Jack Daltons team face up to Jamie Denieffes side and saw Jamie’s side take the honours. The Philip Kinane cup final saw Colin McGrees team take on Cian Donnelly’s side with Colin’s side coming out winners. Thanks goes to all the organisers and mentors for their help in the running of the tournaments.

PARISH NEWS Masses and Church services are one of the restrictions to be lifted recently.

During lockdown the church has always been open for private prayer each day.

Mass continues in St.Lachtains Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and each Sunday at 11am with a limited number of 50 people. Mass resumed in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 8pm with numbers limited to 25 due to social distancing requirements. It is however most important that we continue to wear masks, main social distancing and sanitise our hands and it is very important that you do not attend if you are experiencing any symptoms of Covid 19.

Freshford Parish website is now live and can be found at www.parishoffreshford. com. They will continue to add content in the coming weeks and if you have any suggestions as always just send an email to the Parish office and thanks to all those who have contributed to date.

NOTICES The parish newsletter continued to be issued each week during the restrictions.

The Parish office is open each morning 9.30am to1pm (except Wednesdays).

If you have a community notice you would like included in the weekly newsletter you should submit details of same in person to Freshford Parish office before 1pm on Thursdays or you can email same to Freshford@ossory.ie 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 COMMUNION AND CONFIRMATION There will be no celebration of First Communion or Confirmation for months to come Children of second class due to receive their first Communion may now have to wait till later in the year.

DICKSBORO UNDER AGE HURLING Great to see Palmerstown and James Park buzzing this evening with our youngest hurlers back in the Boro! Well done everyone involved. Parents are advised to download Clubzap to follow the Covid Protocols. Please see relevant clubzap groups for training schedules.

SENIOR HURLING The Senior Hurlers had a very good win on Thursday night V Rower Inistioge in St Canices Senior league played in Inistioge. 2-14 to 0-13. They also played Na Fianna on Saturday morning in a very good challenge played in a glorious Palmerstown pitch.

JUNIOR F HURLING The Dicksboro Jnr F hurlers got their year off to a great start with a win vs Mullinavat in the sunshine down south this evening.

This is the first time the club has entered a 5th adult hurling team in Kilkenny GAA competition. A nice blend of Youth & Experience. Well done lads JUNIOR E HURLING The 4th adult team game had a very good win V Mooncoin on Friday in Palmerstown.

This was the lads second game and ran out winners in the end. 2-15 to 2-09.

MINOR HURLING A Superb contest between in the minor roinn A league honours saw our Minor Hurlers overcome a Young Irelands 5-13 to 2-17 in Gowran (Monday).

The Minor B team had their second game on the season on Sunday night were defeated by a strong Barrow Rangers side.

4-15 to 0-07 U15 HURLING Dicksboro U15 Teams have been divided up in Dicksboro Maroon and White for the Roinn A League campaign. Both sides played each other in Palmerstown on Wednesday night with great quality on show.

U13 HURLING The U13 Hurlers made it two wins from two in the League with a very good win against O’ Loughlin Gaels on Friday night in

Johns Park. With both sides well matched and some quality hurling on show, our lads ran out winners on a scoreline of 5-08 to 3-03.The B team suffered defeat in Hugginstown against Carrickshock.

CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results JUNE 24th 2021 Nos: 11– 03– 13– 22Jackpot: €3,300– not won Draw Prizes – €50: mandy butler c/o joan and tom knox €25 each alan gallagher c/o online €25 each tom lynch c/o online €25 each nicky morrissey c/o niall morrissey €25 each orla neary c/o ned buggy Promoters prize - p & j cody Next week’s (July 3rd) Jackpot – €3,400 We are encouraging every Dicksboro family to support the Clubs Fundraising efforts by signing up to the Club Lotto. https:// dicksborogaa.com/categories/lotto/ products MEMBERSHIP REGISTRATION Registration is now due and should be in place prior to resumption of play. This needs to be paid before entering the pitch. https://www.dicksborogaa.com/ membership_products SUMMER CAMP DICKSBORO SUMMER CAMPBOOKING SYSTEM Reminder: Closing date for registering for week 1 of our Summer Camp is June 30th.A small number of places are still available. To register please use the following link BOOKING SYSTEM Please see link below https://www. dicksborogaa.com/summer-camp DICKSBORO GAA ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC Dicksboro GAA will host its Annual Golf Classic in the Kilkenny Golf Club on Friday 23st of July 2021. This event has been a very successful event in the past and we are encouraging all members, supporters, former players, and friends of the club to support this fundraising event.

Please see link on how to register https:// dicksborogaa.clubzap.com/product PITCH SIDE BUSINESS ADVERTS Should your business want to arrange an advertising hoarding at our Club grounds click here for details: https:// www.dicksborogaa.com/products For any queries contact any committee member. https://www.dicksborogaa.com/contact (Camogie contact runai Ted Carroll (086) 837 6544) KILMANAGH PRETTY WEDDING Happiness and excitement reigned supreme in our parish on Saturday afternoon last with the wedding of Maeve Murphy, Killeen and Shane Murphy, Kyle, Ballykeeffe in St. Brigid’s Church Ballycallan. Celebrant was Fr. Liam Taylor, P.P. Maid of honour was Katie Fitzpatrick while Zoe Murphy and Kathleen Lonergan were Maeve’s bridesmaids. Shane’s bestman was his brother Darragh and his groomsmen were Brendan Hayes, Billy Fitzpatrick and Aidan Brett. The Avoca String Quartet provided beautiful music during the ceremony. After the celebration many relatives and friends of Maeve and Shane were outside the church to congratulate and wish them well. Both Maeve and Shane are popular members of our parish community. We wish them many years of peace and happiness in their married life.

KEEPING OUR VILLAGE CLEAN If anyone has a few hours to spare and they would like to complete a community project, please get involved in cleaning the ivy off the bridge in the village and clearing the weeds which have built up at either end of the bridge. This would greatly improve the visual impact of the bridge in the village and complement the flowers which are already growing beautifully on

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Community & GAA Notes the bridge.

KILKENNY VOLUNTEER CENTRE Kilkenny now has a new Volunteer Centre established to help promote volunteering throughout the county through a variety of initiatives. We are passionate about the benefits of volunteering both for individuals and notfor-profit organisations. At the moment we are helping recruit Welcome Team Volunteers for the summer months to act as ambassadors throughout the city . Volunteers will be available to offer helpful information to visitors and play a supporting role in getting businesses and local attractions open after months of closures. Other roles can also be seen on our website: www.volunteerkilkenny.ie.

You can email info@volunteerkilkenny.ie or Telephone 087 116 5658 for any further information required.

GBC ATHLETICS Our next C25K (Couch to 5 kilometres) starts on Thursday, July 1. We would love for you to join us. It does not matter if you ran before or if you walk sometimes or if you don’t exercise. This is your chance to do something for YOU and make great friends while you’re at it. Get in touch with any of the enthusiasts and make that commitment today! You won’t regret it.

Running for everyone else is at 7pm every Tuesday & Thursday . Wear hi-vis & fill in your covid form please.

BINGO Unfortunately, the start of Bingo in Ballingarry has been postponed to a later date. Never fear, we will keep you posted, when it recommences.

RIVER RANGERS SOCCER Kilkenny and District League Div 2 Ken & Michael Byrne Cup Results.

Castlewarren Celtic 3; River Rangers 1 (James Gleeson, pen) All at River Rangers wish Maeve and Shane Murphy many years of happiness following their recent wedding.

SCRAP METAL COLLECTION The annual Scrap Metal Collection in aid Naomh Aodhán Community Centre, Kilmanagh will take place on Saturday 10th July & Sunday 11th July. Thanks, as always, to the Harris Family for the generous use of their yard for this fund raiser. All metal can be delivered to the Yard (Eircode R95VO50 ) on these TWO DAYS ONLY from 9am to 5pm. If you have some scrap metal you want rid of and have no means of transporting it, please contact any of the committee members.

All funds from this event will go towards the completion of refurbishment works at the community centre.

For further information contact Pat on 087 673 7727 or Alan on 087 756 7643.

LOCAL LINK BUS SERVICE The Local Link Bus Service from Kilmanagh to Kilkenny continues to operate at 50% capacity every Tuesday. To book on for this service please call on 1890 424 141 or 056 771 5912 Monday to Friday 09.00 to 16.30pm.

NEW WALKWAY The construction of the new walkway around Tom Ryall Park starts on Wednesday 16th June.

For Health and Safety reasons during your child’s training times, we ask that only those boys and girls who are training are dropped and collected. We ask that No unsupervised kids be left in the field during these two to three weeks while the walkway is in progress. Thank you for your continued co-operation.

AN POST An Post is providing extra services for older and more vulnerable people during these trying times. You can register with An Post to have a postman or postwoman call to your house during their delivery route. Postal workers can contact the Alone helpline on your behalf, if you need help to access local services. You have to register for this service. If you have post that you want delivered, you can put a

sign in your window that says I HAVE MAIL, and the post person will collect it and send it for you. An Post has a newspaper delivery service. You can get your daily newspaper delivered for no extra charge.

You can register for this service on the An Post website. Cards and letters can be sent for free to and from Nursing and Care homes in Ireland through An Post until 31 December 2021.

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

URLINGFORD EMERALDS GAA CLUB Mega Bingo: Every Sunday at 6pm at Urlingford GAA pitch. Gates open at 5pm.

Single books and 1 sheet €10; Double books and 2 sheets €15. Extra jackpot sheet €3 or two for €5.

Please support.

EMERALDS URLINGFORD & GRAINE LOTTO June 21 prize fund was: €12,200. Jackpot: €10,200.

Numbers drawn: 8, 13, 26 and 30, bonus no 27. No winner, and no match three winners.

Promoters prize: M. Peters.

Five lucky dips of €20 each: Jimmy Darcy, BHCM, Emer O’Dwyer, Katie Doheny, B. Lanigan.

Next draw takes place on June 26 in the Clubrooms. Results next week.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE The Mill Allotments: The allotments and garden are now open to the public from 9am to 6pm Mon to Fri each week.

Courses: Health Care Level 5: We are recruiting for new learners for the Health Care Level 5 course commencing in September 2021.

Pathway to Employment Course, Level 4: We are also recruiting for the Pathway to Employment Level 4 course which will be commencing in September 2021.

Please contact Sue or Kevin in the Mill Family Resource Centre for more information on these courses and application forms on 056 8838466.

Community Bank Savings: Has now recommenced at the centre. Please contact the centre for more information, if required.

SENIOR ALERT If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue or Josephine on 056 8838466.

COUNSELLING SERVICES Teenagers from age 12 upwards, adult and family low cost counselling services are available at the Mill Family Resource Centre, please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment on 056 8838466.

Services that the Mill FRC provides to the public: Family Support; One to One Support; Drop in IT Support computers / laptops & mobile phones; Senior Alert; Community Savings; Room Rental; Social Welfare, HSE, Tax, Garda & Government forms and advice on completing all forms; Internet Access, Printing & Photocopying, Emailing, Scanning, Typing Service, CV / Cover Letters; Homes for the Elderly.

Urlingford Community Garden Urlingford Community Garden has allotments available if anyone is interested contact the centre, two sizes are available 30x30 for €40 per year and 28x15 for €20 per year.

URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT Draw takes place every Sunday evening in the Urlingford Arms Hotel. Last Sunday’s share of the pot was €372 and was won by Katie Kavanagh, well done Katie!

For the next two weeks, the draw is for the Emeralds Camogie Club.

Get your envelopes in local shops for your chance to share half the pot. Please support!

URLINGFORD LIBRARY Children’s Summer Stars Reading Adventure 2021 has started at Urlingford Library. Get your summer stars reading card at the library and read 8 books over the summer time and be in with a chance to win great prizes.

Need to print something? Just to let you know that you can now connect to Urlingford Library Printers via WiFi and the Internet no matter where you are. Follow the instructions on our Library notice board and collect your prints from the Library.

Our opening times are; Tuesday 10-8pm.

Wednesday Closed; Thursday 10-5pm, Friday 10-1.30, Saturday 10-1.30pm.

GORTNAHOE BINGO The joint committee of the Gortnahoe/ Glengoole GAA and Gortnahoe Hall were delighted with the support again last Saturday evening at the drive-in bingo. The evening was dry and we had the biggest support so far. It was great to see the support from the parish, some for the first time ever to play bingo. Bingo continues this Saturday night, July 3. Gates open at 4.30 for a 6pm start. Over €3,500 in prize money which includes €500 for one special game. There will also be a monster raffle for cash prizes on the night.

LOCAL LINK BUS SERVICE The Local Link Bus Service Urlingford area - Urlingford & Galmoy to Kilkenny services continues to operate at 50% capacity every Tuesday.

To book for either of these services please call 1890 424141 or 056 7715912 Monday to Friday 9am to 4.30pm.

URLINGFORD / GRAINE DEFIBRILLATOR GROUP In case of emergency, call: 085 2726396.

URLINGFORD NEWS Anyone wishing to submit news items, club events, announcements etc., can do so by emailing urlingfordnotes@gmail.com. If you have any photos you wish to include, please forward them to the email address.

DUNNAMAGGIN ST. LEONARD’S NATIONAL SCHOOL The school’s traditional hurling league was held again this year with Edward Moylan and Grace Denny captains of the two teams that made it to the final. After a thrilling match, Edward’s team were the winners and Edward received the cup!

The14 pupils of sixth class graduated this week and head off to secondary school in September after a lovely graduation ceremony last Wednesday. We wish them the best of luck in their future.

LOCAL LOTTO DRAW 21ST JUNE 2021 Winning Numbers : 6, 12, 16 - No Winner. Draw for 5 x €30 prizes: Adam Comerford ( Pat Comerford), Hannah, Mia & Emily ( Cis Ryan ),Adam Comerford ( Pat Comerford ),Zoe Kenneally ( Jackie Kenneally ),Pauline Flynn ( Pauline Flynn ).Jackpot next week ( 28th June 2021 ) € 2,050 Draw in St Leonard ‘s Hall @ 9.00 pm. All Welcome DUNNAMAGGIN DEVELOPMENT GROUP A second very successful Garden Market was held in Madges Garden last Sunday.

Thank you to everyone who supported the day. Again the sun shone for us, neighbours and friends gathered to chat and catch up with tea/coffee from the Café and avail of the lovely produce from the stalls and burgers from Eamo’s BBQ. Ciaran and Laura from Islander Architects along with Rosie of Workhouse Union were there to engage with the community and explain the process for a five year plan. They are hosting two workshops to get the ideas and views of the community of Dunnamaggin to further the five year plan ‘A Vision for Dunnamaggin’. The workshops will take place in Madges Garden tonight June 30th at 7pm and Saturday July 3rd at 11am. Please come along and have your input into how you

would like to see Dunnamaggin develop.

The workshops are open to everyone, of all ages. See you there. Follow us on facebook to keep up to date on all that is happening Dunnamaggin Community News.

playschool, Chinese, chippers, Cleere’s, Loughlin’s and Mullins’s. Thanks everyone for your ongoing support and best of luck. All proceeds in aid of community playground and park.

KELLS SCOUTS 6th Kilkenny Kells Scouts is accepting new members of all ages from 6 years old, starting in September 2021, safely in line with any ongoing health restrictions.

To get your child started on the scouting adventure and register your interest please email, text or call the Group Leader Francis as soon as possible: Francis. denny@gmail.com 086 2841468. To find out more about Scouts, see https://www. scouts.ie/

GOWRAN HOUSE Gowran House is open to the public at weekends from 2pm till 6pm. New items have been added, and the 3 keystones from the Alms will be on display. Masks are required unless exempt, social distancing can be always maintained.

PRIDE IN KILKENNY 2021 June is Pride month and to mark this special occasion Kilkenny Leader Partnership is teaming up with the Butler Gallery to programme a series of events and activities which will be just the start of a prolonged process of mutual cultural and artistic engagement with LGBTQ communities across Kilkenny and further afield. Visit butlergallery.ie for events.

NEWLY ESTABLSIHED KILKENNY VOLUNTEER CENTRE www.volunteerkilkenny.ie are Recruiting for Kilkenny Welcome Volunteers / Ambassadors for Summer Months. If you love Kilkenny and passionate about helping visitors around the city please get in touch. Call 08087 116 5658 or email info@volunteerkilkenny.ie Congratulations to Kilkenny Community Traveller Movement who were successful in their application for the new Community Development Programme. On 24 June Minister O’Brien announced the 7 successful applicants to share in the €1m pilot Community Development Programme Fund, of which Kilkenny Community Traveller Movement was one. The aim of this €1m pilot programme is to trial community led interventions that address poverty, social exclusion and inequality, and promote human rights.

The fund will advance a Programme for Government commitment. Applications to take part in the programme were received from over 120 community development organisations. The projects chosen are based in Donegal, Clare, Dublin, Kilkenny, Longford, Wexford and Meath/Louth and will provide supports to Travellers; women living in poverty, migrants and people with disabilities.

GOWRAN DEFIBRILLATORS FOR OUR COMMUNITY Last Saturday, 15 locals ran a half marathon around Gowran and Dungarvan to raise much needed funds to buy community defibrillators, one for Gowran village and one for Dungarvan village.

Thanks to all who came out to support, left out water and to all who have contributed towards the fundraising. Well done to all the runners. All community residents are encouraged to contribute to this fund as the Defibrillators are a much-needed resource in both Gowran and Dungarvan.

Please logon to the link to donate to this very worthwhile cause https://gofund. me/69bcbea2 or donate in person to any of the runners, or you may donate in Hennessy’s filling station, Gowran Pharmacy or John Irelands butchers.

MOLY’S TEA ROOM Molly’s Tea Room is open again every Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm.

GOWRAN PARISH Mass is being streamed every morning on Gowran Parish Facebook page, masses this week Gowran Sunday at 11.30.am, Monday at 9.30.am, Wednesday at 9.30am, Thursday at 9.30.am and Friday at 9.30.am.

GOWRAN ON THE MOVE Split the pot is back in Gowran. Tickets can be bought in the shop, butchers, chemist,

GOWRAN PARK The restaurant is serving food and beverages on the balcony area on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Booking is advised at all times due to limited amount of outdoor space. To book a table please call William on 0860230255 or Edwina on 0830345224.

SPORTS ROUND-UP – MICHAEL O’LEARY Conlon Stars as Gowran U15’s Complete Double Victory Young Irelands 2-13 and Naas 2-8 Following the B Teams victory on Wednesday night against St. Mullins, The A Team completed a double of wins for the U-15 Teams, as they overcame Naas following a hard-fought contest played in very heavy rain on a wet miserable night.

A very low scoring first-half saw the Gowran lads ahead 0-4 to 0-2 at the interval, but the scoring rates improved dramatically afterwards with Jim Conlon leading the way.

Conlon was superb as he accounted for 2-8(2-6 frees) of the Teams totals, & his overall general play was top class as he was a leading presence constantly surging forward towards the opposition goal, while also doing an awful lot of good work to positive effect without possession.

He was a leading shining light particularly throughout the first half, when it was difficult for players to stand out with scores at a premium.

The Second Half was a completely different contest with both teams throwing caution to the wind, & three points apiece were added throughout the opening 10 minutes of the restart, before Jim Conlon brilliantly struck a goal from a free as his low unstoppable pile driving effort flew past the Naas Goalkeeper.

However, the Kildare Men replied almost immediately with a goal, but shortly afterwards, Young Irelands Scorer-in-Chief repeated the trick with another superb goal from a free that was similar to his first.

It was a shot that again was too hot to handle. 2-8 to 1-5.

Naas displayed great fighting spirit throughout & they added 1-3 in quick succession to quickly draw level entering the Water Break prior to the Final Quarter.

The Naas Centre-Forward in particular was causing Young Irelands plenty of problems and having had a dominant spell prior to the Water Break, they appeared to be the more likely victors.

Credit though to Young Irelands, who dug deep when the pressure was at its greatest, and five pointed frees from Jim Conlon in the final 10 minutes sealed the deal with the final margin of victory perhaps slightly flattering.

Significant to Young Irelands victory was how they narrowed space considerably around the middle third area & preventing Naas making any sort of headway.

Defensively, they stood up well considering they were often under most intense pressure particularly in the Second Half with Matthew Murray, Andrew Corbett & Shane Simpson, while the introduction of Ben Drennan provided a new lease of life to their attack as he constantly posed a potent threat.

Full credit to Naas for their trojan efforts & on Thursday nights evidence, they have every right to feel confident of claiming a scalp or two throughout the League.

Young Irelands 1-11 St. Mullins 1-10 The Young Irelands U-15 B Team made it two wins from two in the Roinn C League on Wednesday night, as they held off a last

gasp goal scored by St. Mullins to win a solitary point.

In a low scoring first-half, the Gowran lads led by 0-6 to 0-3 at the interval.

Tristan Nolan got the ball rolling with a Superb long distant point from the Wing-Back position, while Ben Drennan & the always lively Philip Middleton (2) were among the scorers also, as Young Irelands were wasteful shooting 9 wides in the first half & 14 in total The scoring rates improved dramatically throughout the Second Half, & St. Mullins started the second-half very brightly, & they added four points to draw level by the 40th minute Young Irelands were very much in a battle, but they manage to conjure up a well worked goal involving Philip Middleton & Michael Keating in the 40th minute as they led 1-7 to 0-7.

St. Mullins though displayed great fighting spirit in abundance & no little skill & they remained very firmly in touch trailing 1-9 to 0-9 inside the final 10 minutes.

Young Irelands added two further points inside the closing 10 minutes to stretch the lead to a five point gap, 1-11 to 0-9, but the Saints weren’t finished yet.

A pointed free narrowed the deficit, before an injury-time goal left them anxiously sweating it out.

However, that anxiety was briefly lived as John Minogue blew the Full-Time whistle much to their relief.

Overall, frustration would appropriately sum up Young Irelands performance as they played a lot of good hurling & their build-up play was very good, but unfortunately their end product let them down on numerous occasions as evident by their wides tally.

They will certainly require a more consistent performance against Fenians in Johnstown on Wednesday Night who have been the form team in the competition so far.

Fenians have had two comprehensive victories in their games winning 5-15 to 0-4 against St. Mullins followed by a 3-10 to 0-6 win over Carlow Town/Setanta. & it will be good proper test against the League leaders.

ROUND-UP Their was huge disappointment for the Intermediates as they were well beaten 0-22 to 1-9 against Glenmore in Round Two of the Senior League Division Two last Wednesday Night.

They will have another trip South of the County for their next game away to Carrickshock on Thursday 8th July.

The Junior Team will be looking for their first win on Thursday night following defeats against Carrickshock & St. Patricks Ballyragget as they host GraigueBallycallan with a 7.45pm throw-in.

Meanwhile, the U-13 13-a-side got their League campaign off to a winning start as they defeated James Stephens 4-3 to 2-2 in Gowran on Saturday Evening.

They will play Dicksboro in James Park next Friday Evening at 7.30pm, while the U-13 A Team travel Suirside to play Mooncoin at the same in the latest round of the League.

The Minor(U17) game due to be played Monday between Young Irelands and Naas has been postponed, as Naas are without 13 players because of their commitment with the Kildare Minors They will now play a challenge game instead against Emeralds on Monday.

Finally, there was heartbreak for the U-14 Camogie girls as they came up short by a solitary point against Emeralds in Urlingford on Wednesday Night.

The Urlingford girls produced a strong second-half performance to win out 5-1 to 4-3 & deny Young Irelands their first win.

The Gowran Girls travel South of the County to play Kilmacow on Tuesday Evening at 8pm, while in a busy week for the Camogie Club, the Minors play their first away in Callan away to John Lockes on Wednesday also at 8pm, while the Seniors also have an away game against Tullaroan next Sunday Morning 4th July at 11.30am.

We welcome all GAA Club and Community notes for publication in The Kilkenny Observer email to sales@kilkennyobserver.ie

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

kilkennyobserver.ie

Golf

Golf NOTES

Fundraising Classic Congratulations to all the Classic prize winners. The Classic was a huge success with 135 teams participating.

Thanks very much to the course staff for having the course in brilliant condition. Thanks to all the volunteers for their help preparing for the classic and their work over the course of the weekend. Thanks also to our staff in the bar and to Cathal O Dowd for the excellent food from the BBQ. Massive thanks to the classic organising committee for all their efforts. Thanks also to all our sponsors for their continued support. Finally, thanks very much to all our members for giving such great support to the competition Classic Results 1st James Bergin, Nicky Walsh, Paul O’ Neill, Jonny Dowling (98 pts) 2nd Pat Kirwin, Adam Condon, Liam Dowling, Lucy Condon (96pts) 3rd Nicholas Walsh, Bernard O’ Flatherty, Ian Hawe, Doc O’Connor (95pts) b6 4th Noel Rothwell, Cian Rothwell, Jack Rothwell, Eamon Breen (95pts) 5th Margaret Ruth,

Aine O’Shea, Theresa Sheeran, Marie Kelly (94pts) Ladies Maureen Holohan, Magella Deevey, Siobhan McEvoy, Phil Dowling (92pts) Over 55’s Tom Staunton, Maria Downey, Shamus Malone, Joan Brennan (93pts) Non-Golfers Jerry Callinan, Declan Dunne, Gavin O’Mahony, Sean Buggy (86pts) Ladies News Dick Dooley Family Butchers has once again kindly offered to sponsor one of our Ladies Stableford Competitions.

Located on Barrack Street, Castlecomer, the shop stocks locally produced quality food. A hot and cold deli counter service is available with a variety of meal options on offer. The establishment is proud to have been named the Best Overall Business in the “Kilkenny Loves Local Business Awards.” So, call in and support this local enterprise!

Competition Results: First: Eileen Gunner 47 pts Second: Bridget Kealy 40 pts

Third: Ellen Phelan 36 pts Great interest was shown in the 11 Hole Mixed Scramble which commenced Friday June 18th. (6.30 -7.30 p.m.) The event was very well supported and new friendships were formed.

Callan Ladies Results Tipperary Ambush in Callan Honorary President Murt Duggan’s Shield a Tipperary native was held in superb weather and course conditions on Saturday June 19th.

Scoring was extremely high on the day and to the delight of all the Ladies it was won by fellow Tipp. woman Mary Norton in a true Tipperary Ambush. Hot on Marys heels was Black and Amber native Rita O’Neill another popular lady member.

Results: Overall Winner: Mary Norton 46 pts Div. 1 Rita O’Neill 42pts Best Gross Ross Holden 35pts Div. 2 Pierce Scott 42pts, Div. 3 Joe Pollard 42pts Granard Cup Scotch Foursomes 1st Eileen McGrath, Caroline Somers 47pts c.b.

2nd Joan Phelan,

Catherine Gibbons 47pts 9 Hole 1st Margaret T. O’Shea 22pts 2nd Marie Costello 20pts Senior Ladies Results 12 Hole Competition 1st Mary Barry 32pts c.b.

2nd Rose Brophy 32pts 3rd. Marie O’Riordan 30pts 4th Ann McEvoy 29pts 5th Sheila Kirby 27pts It wasn’t a great week for our Ladies Club teams who lost out to Castlecomer in the fourball and to Baltinglass in the Challenge Cup. The Minor Cup team lost out to Kilkenny having lost 2 matches in Kilkenny having won one won in Callan and with one lost on the 16th the other was called while two up after 16 holes. Very well done to all who represented the Club proudly and to the managers. Rita O’Neill, Rose Brophy, Ena Kennedy, and Ann McEvoy. All the very best to our Intermediate team managed by Catherine Davis who having overcome Mt Juliet will now face Castlecomer in their next round.

Booking online for Play in Pink July 9th in aid of Breast Cancer Research.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

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Community Group

Its time to rock and roll Polska / Eire Festival style 2021 ALL the filming is done, interviews are in the ‘can ‘and the local Polska Eire festival contributors and volunteers are ready to rock and roll.

Yes, this weekend we see the Polska Eire 2021 Kilkenny festival hit the airways. Due to the ongoing public health Guidelines this year’s festival will be a ‘virtual event’ broadcasting worldwide on the Twilight European Network (TEN) YouTube Channel. Going virtual may have presented some problems but it also opened many doors and gave Twilight and opportunity to add another branch to their Tree of life programme. The very progressive Charitable organisation based at their Hebron House intercultural headquarters have now invested in a Media Centre.

This now gives access to all the community groups in Kilkenny many exciting opportunities

to record and broadcast their own Pod Cast programmes to their Community members and around the world on the web.

Twilight will give professional advice and guidance to all their users to ensure what is broadcasted will be of the Highest standards.

The Polska Eire Festival recorded its programmes in the new TEN studio 10 since it was decided to go online for this year’s event. This weekend will see the fruits of the labour.

A special programme on the excellent Polska Szkoła im. św.

Jana Pawła II w Kilkenny. The students of all ages did their Teachers and Parents proud as the showed the world their wonderful local school culture and heritage classes that take place weekly under the guidance of Jolanta Górnicka. This will be on the TEN YouTube channel Sat-

urday as part of the Polska Eire’s Children’s Day 17.00 GMT Also, on the Saturday we will see the National Youth Council of Ireland sponsor a programme for youth and young adults 17.30 GMT. Earlier in the day we will see the FAI and their top professionals give coaching lessons that you can do in the comfort of your home call ‘Home Skills’.

This programme will be introduced by the FAI Integration officer Mr Des Tomlinson who will be interviewed live in the Twilight European Network’s Studio 10 .

Our Supporters in the Irish Human Rights & Equality Com-

mission have a sponsored slot on Diversity 19-15 GMT Friday July 2nd followed by ‘Let’s talk climate’ NYCI programme with Twilight & Erasmus+ Connecting Cultures bring this segment to a close 20.30 GMT ‘Coffee with Ania’ will see local Polish Diaspora talk candidly about their experiences in Kilkenny and this 3-part programme will go out daily over the weekend.

Music has always a big part of the Polska Eire Festival. In 2016 we had the national launch in Kilkenny and the closing ceremony that year included the ‘Three Sisters’ from Carlow and

all the way from Poland The Family Group Kapela Maliszow.

This concert can be seen on Friday night, as part of the documentary of the 2016 National launch, with the programme starting 21.40 GMT. The High Kings will be performing right though the 3 days and great thank you goes out to the 4 balladeers for the continuing support and as Ambassadors of the Twilight Community Group never been found wanting when the group needs their support. Traditional Irish group Danu will close the programming on July 3rd with an incredible concert specially recorded for ST Patrick’s Day

2020 by kind permission of their management team and our good friends DANU and Alliance Artist Management 579 West 215th Street, #2B. New York, NY 10034. What a night of traditional Music is in store for our viewers.

The final night’s concert remains a secret. If you want to experience an incredible concert by a band that has sold out concerts in Europe, Scandinavia, the States and of course Ireland you must tune in 19.30 GMT All these world-famous groups are great supporters of the Twilight Community group, and we are proud and to have permission to rebroadcast their materials as without the support of others the Twilight Community Group would not be able to fulfil all their ambitious projects.

Remember’ Communities Are Stronger Together

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

Science & Wellbeing

News but don’t forget cruciferous vegetables, like cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower (which isn’t green at all).

A lot of the heart-healthy qualities of leafy greens come from fibre. It can lower bad cholesterol and your chance of heart disease. But pigments (things that provide colour) found in many of these vegetables, also provides antioxidants that can protect your heart against disease.

In addition, because veggies are low in calories, you can load up your plate, which helps keep calories down and your weight in check. (Obesity is a major red flag for heart problems.)

The good food guide to a healthy heart

WE all know, or should know, that a good diet is critical to good heart health. You should eat plenty of: • Fruits and veggies • Fish and skinless poultry • Whole-grain foods • Nuts • Protein-rich beans • Low-fat dairy products • You should also limit salt and avoid: • Sugar and sugary beverages • Saturated and trans fats

• Refined grains • Red meat But even if you know all of that, you probably still have questions. Finding the best heart-healthy foods takes some doing.

“Typically, what you see on your plate is maybe like a big piece of protein, and some type of grain — so let’s say a steak with potatoes — and then a small side salad,” says Roxana Ehsani, a registered dietitian

and nutritionist and a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

The Mediterranean diet is a good template to follow, as is the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (or DASH) diet.

Both incorporate the basics above, though Mediterranean diets often use a lot of olive oil, and DASH diets mix in more meat and dairy products.

No matter which plan you choose, there are a few foods

that should be on every heartconscious eater’s shopping list.

SALMON The omega-3 fatty acids in salmon and some other fatty fish — like Atlantic mackerel, canned light tuna, and sardines — are heart-health superstars.

Omega-3s can: • Lower your chances of stroke and heart failure • Ease your blood pressure • Help keep your heartbeat

How walking with your partner can slow you down WE all know walking, daily where possible, is healthy for mind and body. However, couples decrease their speed even further when they hold hands while out walking, according to the new study from Purdue University.

Researchers looked at walking times and gait speeds of 141 people from 72 couples.

Participants ranged from age 25 to 79 who walked together, walked together holding hands, and walked individually. Settings included both clear and obstacle-filled pathways.

“In our study, we focused on couples because partners in committed relationships often provide essential support to promote one another’s healthy lifestyle behaviours, including exercise,” says Melissa Franks, associate professor of human development and family studies at Purdue University.

“We were hoping that there would not be a reduction in speed where partners walked together,” says Libby Richards, associate professor of nursing.

“We hoped that slower partners would speed up to

regular Two servings a week can lower your odds of heart disease, including heart attacks BERRIES The ones with brilliant colours, like raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, and cranberries, are excellent sources of antioxidants. Those are compounds that help ease inflammation and help your heart.

Fresh berries are the best, when the antioxidants are plentiful and most active. But frozen berries are great substitutes and readily available, especially when fresh berries are out of season.

You can’t go wrong with berries. They are so easy to include in your diet. Smoothies, your morning cereal, in yogurt.

Not a berry person? Grapes can give you a lot of the same benefits.

GREEN, LEAFY VEGGIES You know the so-called “green leafies,” like spinach and lettuce,

NUTS Nuts also have the added benefit of omega-3 fatty acids.

That’s one reason choices like walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, pecans, and peanuts are a great addition to any healthy diet.

Other things that make nuts a smart snack include fiber, unsaturated fat, and other heartboosting nutrients.

Adding nuts to your diet can: • Lower your ‘bad’ cholesterol • Strengthen the lining of your blood vessels • Lower your chances of blood clots • Ease inflammation related to heart disease Nuts can be high in calories.

So it’s easy to get too much of this good thing. Shoot for four servings of nuts a week. A serving is a small handful.

FLAXSEED AND CHIA Flaxseed and flaxseed oil boast omega-3s too. Flaxseed may help lower “bad” cholesterol and blood pressure. Chia seeds also have some of the same fatty acids and nutrients, plus their high fiber content can help you feel fuller longer.

Like nuts, flaxseeds and chia seeds (and other seeds like hemp, pumpkin, sesame, and sunflower) don’t come without calories. So enjoy them in moderation, either as a snack, on a salad, or sprinkled over a main dish.

Not so fast on that intermittent fasting

match the faster partner, but that was not the case. However, it’s important to note that any physical activity or walking— regardless of speed—is better than none.”

Prof. Richards says it’s common for people to walk or exercise with a spouse, partner, or friend and doing so increases the likelihood someone will be active. Americans are encouraged to meet a goal of 150 minutes of moderate activity every week.

“If someone substantially slows down when they are

walking with someone else, that could negate some of the health benefits recognised if they walked alone at a faster pace,” Richards says.

There are many reasons to measure gait speed, says Shirley Rietdyk, professor of health and kinesiology who specializes in biomechanics.

“Gait speed is important to measure because it is related to overall health,” Rietdyk says.

“Typical gait speed is predictive of fall risk, functional ability, disability recovery, and mortality.”

INTERMITTENT fasting (IF) is not new. Many religious traditions, including Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, and Orthodox Christianity have practiced forms of it. These methods were predominantly due to food shortages or spiritual pursuits.

Today IF is most often promoted as a weight-loss regimen, and there is some evidence that it is useful in that capacity. One extensive review found that it not only helps with obesity, but also hypertension, inflammation, and insulin resistance.

Proponents swear by its efficacy. In reality, intermittent fasting is just about closing your feeding window: don’t eat first thing in the morning (or breakfast at

all), don’t eat for two hours (or longer) before bed. It’s a practical approach to eating, yet, as with everything in our time, it has to be packaged and marketed to be sold as a lifestyle.

That’s not to say that IF isn’t effective. It’s just not miraculous.

One honest debate that has persisted for years is how long to fast for. Twelve hours? Sixteen? Twenty? A new study, published in the journal ‘Brain And Behaviour’, set out to answer this question.

It appears that restricting your feeding window to eight hours a day can have profound effects on cognitive behaviour. So, think twice before embarking on a reign of intermittent fasting.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

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Dine Me Come

Food & Drink

Learning about wine Part 1

With

Sticky barbecue chicken

PREPARATION AND COOKING TIME Prep:10 mins Cook: 30 mins - 40 mins INGREDIENTS • 8 chicken thighs • 2 tbsp plain flour • 1 tbsp olive oil • 8 rashers streaky bacon , chopped • 400ml stock • 500g bag baby new potatoes , halved • 200g pack full fat soft cheese • 200g broad beans , podded • 200g sweetcorn (frozen, fresh or from a can) • 200g cherry tomatoes , halved METHOD STEP 1 Dust the chicken in the flour and some seasoning. Heat the oil in a lidded pan and brown the chicken, in batches if needed, then transfer to a plate. Throw in the bacon and fry for 5 mins, until crisp.

STEP 2 Return the chicken to the pan. Add the stock, cover and simmer for 30 mins, adding the potatoes after 10 mins.

STEP 3 Make sure the chicken is cooked and

the potatoes are tender, then stir in the cheese, the rest of the vegetables and some seasoning. Simmer for 5 mins more, uncovered, then serve.

RECIPE TIPS Chicken thighs make a good-value alternative to breasts, however, if you prefer the white breast meat, then swap for 4 skinless breasts, and simmer for just 20 mins with the potatoes.

Barbecued chicken fajita skewers Preparation and cooking time Prep: 30 mins Cook: 10 mins

and mix together. Dice the chicken, then get your child to stir it through the marinade, and set aside.

Easy Makes 6-8 skewers

STEP 2 Prepare the vegetables. Deseeding the peppers and halving the onion is tricky, so do this yourself.

Children aged from about seven or above can cut them into chunks using a child-friendly knife.

INGREDIENTS For the fajitas • 2 limes , plus wedges to serve • 1 tsp dried oregano • 1 tsp ground cumin • 1 tsp smoked paprika • 1 tsp olive oil • 2 garlic cloves , crushed or finely grated • 4 chicken breasts • 3 mixed coloured peppers • 1 red onion For the guacamole • 2 ripe avocados • 1 lime • 6 cherry tomatoes , halved

• warmed tortillas , chopped coriander, soured cream or yogurt, plus chilli sauce for the grown-ups, to serve

Method

STEP 1 Make the marinade. In a large bowl, juice both the limes. Add the oregano, spices, olive oil and garlic,

STEP 3 Make your skewers. Carefully thread alternate pieces of chicken, peppers and onion onto your skewers. Smaller children might find this a little hard, so the best way is to stab the ingredients and push them up the skewers. When you’ve used up all the ingredients, set aside. Can be made several hours ahead and chilled until ready to cook.

STEP 4 Prepare the guacamole. Stone and peel the avocados, then tip into a bowl with the other ingredients. Get your child to use a potato masher to mash everything together and tip into a serving dish.

STEP 5 Cook the skewers. Heat a barbecue or griddle pan. Cook the skewers for 10-12 mins, turning, until they are cooked all the way through. A child from the age of eight can watch over a griddle and turn the skewers with a pair of tongs. Serve the skewers on heated tortillas with the guacamole, soured cream, chopped coriander, lime wedges on the side and chilli sauce for those who like a touch of spice.

Good wine is one of life’s greatest pleasures.

Whether you are a novice or a connoisseur, interested in simply sipping or expertly analysing, enjoying a glass of wine can be a sublime experience.

Unfortunately, many people find wine and how to choose, serve, and describe it more intimidating than enjoyable. The very scope of the topic seems daunting. But never fear -you don’t have to take a class to appreciate the subtleties of fine wine.

Still, as with many things in life, a little knowledge goes a long way. Just as a musical performance is enhanced by knowledge of the composer or the piece, a bottle of wine is more enjoyable if you know something about it.

Learn to taste the story in the wine, and you can transcend the intimidation.

To appreciate wine as somex===thing more than mere drink, all you’ll need is conscious, deliberate awareness. Let’s face it: It makes little sense to pay the premium for wines of character only to swallow them unconsciously.

Each wine has a personality waiting to be discovered: You just need to decide whether you like it.

This is a very personal endeavour. Responses to wine are as individual as fingerprints. An aroma or flavour that is pleasing to you may not be so to another. The trick is translating your preferences into words. Accomplish this, and you will add new dimensions to your enjoyment of wine.

So, how to begin? You begin by understanding what’s in your glass, tasting what’s in your glass, and evaluating what’s in your glass. Sampling wine and recording your impressions is an effective (and festive!) way to gain confidence choosing and evaluating wine. In this article, you will learn about all the aspects of wine and wine tasting. You will learn about the various varieties of wine and how they are made, as well as how to taste and appreciate wine.

In many ways, beginning a quest for wine knowledge is like entering a whole new world: a new language to learn, new techniques to master, and so many wonderful selections of wine to sample. Enjoy the journey!

TO BE CONTINUED

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Summer days

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

DAYS

Nore Valley Park Are you a family looking for a fun outdoor activity in Kilkenny?

Well look no further, Nore Valley Park is a great choice for a safe and fun day out. Located just ten minutes outside of Kilkenny City.

There are a number of amenities and activities to take part in for the whole family to enjoy

T

hey are a family run pet farm which has been passed down through the generations and they do their utmost to ensure their visitors have a great fun filled time at their park with their animals. Nore Valley Park offers a gorgeous trail around the outdoor pet farm with a fort overlooking the entire park. They

have both indoor and outdoor petting facilities, the indoor facilities include petting baby animals such as fluffy bunnies, chicks, lambs and piglets. They have dedicated feeding times throughout the day to let you and the kids get a chance at bottle

feeding the animals and make amazing memories. This gives a chance to find out all about the baby animals and ask any questions in which you may have. The outdoor petting facilities include animals such as goats, baby goats, ducks, peacocks, sheep, deer, ostrich, and many more.

The baby animals love being cuddled by people of all ages and it’s a relaxing therapeutic experience for everyone involved. There is a wide range of beautiful birds as well as farm animals on the farm, these birds include a Bengal eagle owl, guinea fowl and pheasants. The piglet Winston loves getting all of

the attention from his visitors.

As well as the pet farm amenities, Nore Valley Park also offers a range of outdoor activities such as go karts, mini golf and a tractor ride around the farm.

There is a scenic two mile river walk and nature trail to enjoy and be at one with nature. Relax at the picnic benches whilst the kids play at the playground and enjoy some freshly baked goods baked on the farm. They offer a huge range of breads, cookies and a delicious carrot cake. A fun filled day out in the sunny south East, guaranteed to make you smile. The animals at Nore Valley Park hope to see you all very soon.

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Summer days

DAYS

Bricks 4 Kidz Does your child dream of a wonderful world of imagination and discovery? A Bricks 4 Kidz camp just might be the perfect place for your Master Builder to grow and learn and make new friends! Suitable for girls and boys aged 5 – 12, a Bricks 4 Kidz camp encourages learning through LEGO®-based play activities BRICKS 4 KIDZ is one of a select few educational play facilities accredited

by Science Foundation Ireland. This accreditation ensures that all our activities are in-line with the current

Irish curriculum for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths). The unique Bricks 4 Kidz LEGO® Kits and builds are designed by an education team including STEM professionals

and teachers to promote STEM engagement and active learning.

This year, Bricks 4 Kidz will be running their fun educational camps in venues around Kilkenny, Carlow, and Waterford. These camps will be even more fun than before, as there is a range of brand- new themes and builds within each camp! Whether your child dreams of piloting a rocket or a pirateship, exploring the jungle or the oceans, or becoming the greatest Pokémon trainer in the world, there is sure to be a Bricks 4 Kidz camp for them!

To ensure that every Master Builder stays safe and healthy, Bricks 4 Kidz have taken additional COVID-19 prevention measures at their camps. A “building pod” system keeps all children in small groups throughout

the week and limits their interaction to the other children in this pod. Social distancing measures are in place in all venues, as well as a contactless drop-off and collection system. Enhanced hygiene measures ensure that there is no sharing of equipment between pods during the camps, and each child will have individual and pod use of all equipment throughout the camp. In

addition to these measures, Bricks 4 Kidz management and staff have undergone the appropriate training and risk assessments to ensure the safety of all their activities.

The LEGO®-tastic Bricks 4 Kidz camps will be taking place in Kilkenny on the following dates: July 5th – 9th (St Canices Neighbourhood Hall), and July 19 th – 23 rd (St Canices NS), along with another week to be added

in August. All camps take place from 10am – 1:30pm Monday – Friday. Full details can be found on the website bricks4kidz.ie/carlowkilkenny-waterford. For more information on their camps, other venues, or to book a place, contact Kealan on 085 144 2783 or by email at ktyrrell@bricks4kidz.com.

Spaces are limited on camps, so call today to book your space!

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Summer days Build skills, confidence, friendships Art It – In & memories at a Designer Minds everyone there is a creative streak Kilkenny summer camp waiting to emerge

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

DAYS

T

he first of Designer Minds three actionpacked Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Maths Summer Camps in Kilkenny is just over a week away. These exciting camps are a great way for children to learn new skills, build their confidence, make memories and friendships, and

have lots of fun…. All at the same time!

Designer Minds will be inspiring, educating and entertaining young minds at Loreto College for three whole weeks this Summer (July 5th-9th, July 19th-23rd and August 9th-13th). If you are on a staycation in another county for any of these weeks, then be sure

to look out for a Designer Minds Summer Camp there too. They run their camps nationwide!

“My daughter attended the camp in Kilkenny. She bounced home every evening, full of enthusiasm from the activities she took part in. There was great variety during the week, so thank you to all the team at Designer Minds” – Denise, Kilkenny Summer Camp 2019 Designer Minds is one of Ireland’s leading STEAM camp providers. They have been featured on TG4, recommended by The Sunday Times, The Irish Times, The Irish Independent, and thousands of parents and children around Ireland.

This year’s camps are full to the brim with fun games, exciting experiments and team-building challenges. All camps will be run outdoors where possible. This year’s topics include Sports Science, Minecraft, Coding, Team Building, Architecture, Robotics, Engineering, Circuit Building, Art & Design and so much more….

You can secure your place with a €10 deposit today, at www.designerminds.ie/ camps. Sibling discounts are available.

DiDi’s Walk In Studio for All Ages ART It is a wonderful airy space at MacDonagh Shopping Centre run by artist DiDi Dobree-Wilson that offers a walk-in art experience for all ages. You can have fun decorating an artwork with your child or you can drop him/her off while you catch up on your shopping. Children from the age of 5-13 can enjoy the excitement of DiDi’s summer camps.

They are always stimulating, educative and fun, and often include other activities such as sewing, cooking, crystal art, string painting and much more. For the 8-13 year children bring a packed lunch for a full day’s entertainment.

Parties at Art It are great craic and are for all ages!

Paint, glitter, gem a piece from a very wide selection of objects, draw a live model, paint pottery, paint a canvas and so much more. Pick what appeals to you, find your

inner child and have fun!

Art It also runs art classes in acrylic and oil painting, first experience classes for the young and fun art Saturday classes during the school term.

To check us out you can either call DiDi at 086 3085270, Facebook us at Art It Kilkenny, Instagram us at artitkilkenny, website us at www.artit.ie or look DiDi up at www.contemporaryartandpaintings.com.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

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Summer days

DAYS

Secret Valley Wildlife Park

Come and enjoy a day out in the Sunny Southeast and experience wildlife from all around the world

S

ecret Valley Wildlife Park is located on fourteen acres with over 40 species from farm animal favourites to exotics. We have implemented new regulations for the safety of our visitors, staff and animals. Upon arrival you will receive feed for the baby goats, Llamas and Alpacas. Get up close with Toby the Tortoise as he walks around the park and animal encounters shed.

Our one way system brings you

around the paddocks to the ponies, capybara, ring-tailed lemurs, capuchin monkeys, and Rhesus macaques. The animal encounters shed homes the meerkats, prairie dogs, bunnies, reptiles, macaws, our raccoon and much more! Visit the old farmyard where our pigs, donkeys, goats and Shetland ponies live. Our outdoor play area, obstacle course and picnic area, located by the farmyard remain open and sanitized daily. The Quad Train runs

all day long and takes you on a seven minute during all around the farm through the paddocks, the farmyard, down by the pond and the hawthorn lane. This is an additional €2 a head. Our coffee shop, The Hungry Tortoise, offers a menu of speciality sandwiches and hot food. Why not get a gormet McCabes Coffee and enjoy in our picnic area beside the peddle tractor park. We also sell all our furry favourites in a teddy from our gift store. Other merchandise also available.

Visit our Instagram and Facebook for daily updates on our animals @ secretvalleywildlifepark. You can buy and book tickets on our website secretvalley.ie. Booking is essential. Adults €10 Children €9 and family rates available see website for more. Group bookings and birthday parties available call 0872050069 or 0539244023. We are constantly growing and expanding with lots of new and exciting features to come. Watch this space!!

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Summer days

DAYS

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

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Summer days

DAYS

Bundoran ready to embrace staycationers From the famous Fairy Bridges to the stunning Tullan Strand to being the surf capital of Ireland, Bundoran, County Donegal is the ultimate family destination this summer for your staycation! Nestled in the southern most tip of Donegal, beautiful bracing Bundoran by the sea has become synonymous with its tradition of hospitality right across the seaside resort for many centuries.

E

njoying stunning views of Donegal Bay, the first stop in the county on the Wild Atlantic Way has something for the whole family who are looking to fill every moment or that someone who just wants to relax and let the world go by. Five hotels, numerous self catering apartments and holiday homes, B&Bs and hostels ensure that every budget is catered for while attractions and entertainment options won’t leave you

wanting for something to do.

Check out our impressive Fairy Bridges and make a wish on the Wishing Chair.

Enjoy a stroll on the Rougey Walk and embrace that sea air. Settle down for the day on our Blue Flag beach or spend the afternoon experiencing the fun of the fair at Bundoran Adventure Park including the View Wheel lifting you to a height of 36 metres above ground.

For the sports enthusiast there’s surfing with our surf

schools showing you how to get to your feet and facilities for beginners, intermediates and professionals right across the coastline. The golfer is looked after with our 18 hole championship links course and with sea, lake and river fishing close at hand the angler in your life is well catered for as well!

How about a horseback ride across a golden strand and through sandy dunes? Look no further than Bundoran. On calm days you can experience

the coastal nooks and crannys from a sea kayak on the Atlantic.

Nearby there’s hill walks and hikes and Bundoran provides the perfect base for an adventure to explore the surrounding areas including the Gleniff Horseshoe, Mullaghmore, Ireland’s Oldest Town – Ballyshannon, Donegal Town and further west to the highest accessible sea cliffs in Europe – Sliabh Liag.

When the hunger pangs

are at you, you’ll find many of Bundoran’s cafes and restaurants open for takeaway from your traditional fish and chips to your full dinner with options from Irish to European, Chinese to Indian.

Many will have outdoor dining in place this year too.

Finally, end your day with a loved one and take in one of Donegal’s stunning sunsets across Donegal Bay. Want to check it out before you get here? See our brand new webcams streaming live 24/7

at discoverbundoran.com/ webcam and when you get here, we’ve made it even easier for you to upload that treasured photo memory with free wifi at our Main Beach and Tourist Office.

Things will be a little different this year and some things may be subject to change, but we are gearing up this year to give you a staycation to remember – for more see www.discoverbundoran.com and check us out on social media.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

Travel

A bite of the Big Apple A visit to New York is every bit as exhilarating as you would expect, discovers Paul Hopkins

NEW YORK, New York. So good, they named it twice; the City that never sleeps; the Big Apple, Capital City of the World, the Centre of the Universe.

We’ve heard it all before, of course, but, to paraphrase Samuel Johnson, he who tires of

New York, is he who tires of Life.

I love great cities: Paris, Barcelona, Rio, Kuala Lumpur, Edinburgh. New York City, though, takes some beating, hands down. Anything in the world you might fancy, be it food, fashion or fetish, you can find it — or

they’ll fetch it for you. There’s the famous and the fabulous too, and the forlorn, the raggedy street people: stand on Bleecker and Canal or indeed 5th Ave long enough, and all humankind will traipse by.

NYC has changed some-

Ryanair to roll out 16 new destinations

By Fionn Davenport ittn.ie RYANAIR will increase its services from Shannon Airport from this month to 16 destinations. In addition to its current services to Barcelona-Reus, Stansted, Gatwick, Kaunas, Krakow, Wroclaw, Warsaw and Manchester, Ryanair will add new services to Alicante, Corfu, Faro, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Malaga, Palma and Tenerife.

A new service from Shannon Airport to Turin will start on December 18.

In all, a total of 72 weekly flights will operate through Shannon from July up to the end of October.

In a statement Shannon Airport said: “Airport staff are delighted to welcome back the scheduled flights and we look forward to the easing of restrictions and the beginning of the recovery of aviation.

“In a further boost to services, Ryanair this week announced a new weekly flight to Turin commencing on the 18th December for the winter-ski market.”

“As the vaccine roll-out programme increases and

we look forward to the lifting of the non-essential travel ban on July 19th , people can again begin to plan for muchdeserved holiday breaks.”

Commenting on the service enhancements at Shannon, Declan Power, Head of Aviation Development said “We expect to see an increase of passengers through the airport over the coming months and with the closure of Cork Airport for three months, from September to November, we will be open to facilitate and serve any holidaymakers from the Cork region who wish to travel during this time.”

what since I last set wary feet on Broadway, but maintains its familiarity, perhaps, in part, because of its casting role in TV and cinema. The Twin Towers have gone, given way to Ground Zero with its seeping shroud of sorrow and sustained shock and curiosity-seekers; bad crime is but a memory, thanks to onetime mayor (and now sadly disgraced) Rudy Giuliani, with more cops on every block, posing for photos not punishing perps; and it’s a city that seems far cheaper to eat and shop in than I remember.

Happy hour is daily and runs in most bars from 4 to 8pm. I find refuge in Johnny Utah’s on 52nd, between 6th and 5th Avenues, a dive bar where the music’s loud and the beer flows. Even the outof-town visiting cowboys have changed — checked shirt and Stetson are still in tow but the denims are designer and torn or skinny and the boots have given way to Puma or Vans or Italian loafers, which lend themselves to walking a city that was made for walkin’.

The Subway is good though, cheap and convenient, a ride from one extremity to the other a steal at $2.50 (£1.70). And there’s always, always, the buskers and late-night jazz combos on platforms, entertaining the shuffling souls that people a city

24/7. The city’s famed yellow taxis are also as cheap as, if not cheaper than, Dublin.

In Johnny Utah’s, my draught Miller is $4 a pop, bourbon just $5, its measure solely down to the discerning young barmaid.

Jenny and Johnny Utah give me respite when the sun’s going down and my wary, and now weary, feet are blistered from walking this city’s sidewalks, taking in the neon lights of Broadway and Times Square, the imposing Rockefeller Centre, the how-longhave- you-got-to-spend-there Museum of Modern Art, hallowed St Patrick’s Cathedral, Radio City and The New York Times building. And then there’s the Village, SoHo, Chinatown and Little Italy.

At Grand Central Station — 44 platforms serving 67 tracks with 22 million annual visit I sit down and, if not weep, then certainly find peace and earnest reflection amid the fast-forwarding quick-stepping commuters through its main concourse.

Brunch or lunch can be Italian or Mexican with extra salt on the Margarita, or the popular Halal street food; here you can expect long queues that move fast, like everything in this frenetic city.

Or maybe just grab a 99c slice of pizza, as only Americans can make it, and keep walking, and

looking up, forever gazing at the changing and captivating skyline.

Lunch will set you back $6 to $15. For dinner, a good steak in midtown will divest you of $27. I go shopping with the world and his wife on 5th Ave. I buy the lady a dress, down from $250 to $100. I go to pay. Your lucky day, says sales girl Jazz, there’s another $30 off today.

I take a room by Central Park at the Hotel Beacon, in leafy and pleasant 72nd and 6th. I get a suite on the 17th floor, courtesy of genial general manger Tom Travers (now retired and I wish him well), a regular visitor to Dublin for the Holiday Fair.

“Tell ‘em I said hi,” he says. And then tells me Bette Midler, when unknown, once had a residency gig at the Beacon, accompanied by an unknown piano man named Barry Manilow.

And Tom tells me the Dalai Lama is in town next week at the theatre and he and his entourage have taken the hotel’s two top floors and suites.

Only in New York, I think: the Dalai Lama strutting his stuff on stage, the night after the awesome Drive By Truckers play. * Paul Hopkins traveled to New York courtesy of American Holidays and Air France/ Delta Airlines.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

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TV & Streaming

5

tear-jerkers to watch now on Netflix 1. PIECES OF A WOMAN

The Crown’s Vanessa Kirby stars in this heartbreaking movie about a woman whose life changed forever when her child, delivered at home, dies shortly after birth. Pieces of a Woman explores the emotional complexity of grief, marriage, and blame while telling a devastatingly real story of loss.

2. ALL THE BRIGHT PLACES

Now, Ghislaine gets her say in sordid affair A FOUR PART Netflix documentary miniseries last year, Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich, told his abusive, paedophilic, sex-trafficking story. Now it is the turn of his partner in, it is charged, all things, Ghislaine Maxwell.

She gets a three-hour Sky Documentaries series, Epstein’s Shadow: Ghislaine Maxwell, which itself feels like a shadow of Filthy Rich.

The latter was not laden with original insight but did deliver a dense, compact history of the proliferating tales, evidence, rumours and reports that had swirled for decades before Epstein’s

arrest for trafficking minors, and subsequent suicide while awaiting trial.

This documentary tells the story of Maxwell’s upbringing as the youngest child of media baron and notorious bully Robert Maxwell, her socialite years and her introduction to and subsequent long relationship with Epstein, which included, many claim, procuring underage girls for him who were then often passed round a network of like-minded men.

A number of talking heads are interviewed who are billed as her “former friends”.

The waffler-in-chief is

Anna Pasternak, “Oxford contemporary” rather than “former friend”, which does not seem to have put a brake on her willingness to deliver unsearing and repeated insights into the workings of the Maxwell mind. We return to her approximately every seven minutes, so she can tell us – again and again – that Maxwell grew up under a monstrous father, became used to pleasing corrupt and awful men and thinking this – and money – was the way to be protected.

Thus she was drawn to Epstein when he first entered her father’s circle.

Thus she clung to him after Daddy died and the family finances suffered (upon the discovery that he had left the Mirror Group pension fund and other business holdings hundreds of millions of pounds short). And thus – if the allegations by multiple survivors are true – she became his enticer of minors and procurer of the three young women a day he liked to have sex with in his wiredfor-covert-surveillance townhouse or Palm Beach mansion, depending which coast they were on at the time.

Screening date yet to announced.

For the kids ... and the kid-ults WRECK IT RALPH is the definition of fun. In this animated comedy, the dejected video game villain of Fix-It Felix Jr. attempts to win a medal in the popular racing game Sugar Rush in hopes of gaining respect from his peers back home.

This means most of the story takes place inside a candycoloured arcade world loaded with kooky characters and

creative locations. Thanks to the film’s major feels and retro gaming nostalgia, the narrative has a wide appeal.

Wreck-It Ralph is streaming on Disney+.

An enchanted French castle, a clever young maiden, and a spell in need of breaking? Beauty And The Beast is a classic for a reason. With witty songs like ‘Be Our Guest’ and ‘Gaston’, wistful hand-drawn animations,

and heart-grabbing emotional depth, it hits all the right notes.

What’s not to love about a sweeping romance that’s just as entertaining as it is memorable?

Beauty And The Beast is also streaming on Disney+.

More so than any other movie, The Incredibles caters to a large audience. For the kids, there’s superhero action and relatable family dynamics.

For the adults, there’s Mr Incredible struggling through his mundane job and Mrs Incredible questioning whether there’s been infidelity in her marriage.

These heavier subjects will go over the heads of young viewers fascinated by the zippy savethe-city adventure, but more mature audience members will be pleasantly surprised by the film’s emotional weight.

Fans of The Fault in Our Stars will like All the Bright Places, another tearjerker about teens who find love through their personal sufferings. Elle Fanning and Justice Smith deliver heartbreaking performances from a screenplay co-written

by Jennifer Niven, who also wrote the novel upon which the movie is based.

3. OTHER PEOPLE

Molly Shannon and Jesse Plemons star as mother and son in this semi-autobiographical movie about a young gay man who returns to his childhood home to help take care of his dying mother. Other People finds the humour and beauty in the moments that lead up to experiencing loss and features one of Plemons’ best performances.

4. THE SKY IS PINK

The Sky Is Pink is told from the perspective of Aisha, a girl who died young and narrates the story of her parents’ lives from the afterlife. So yeah, it’s pretty sad. This Hindi language film is one of many Indian gems on Netflix and is a sure tearjerker starring Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Farhan Akhtar.

5. MARRIAGE STORY

Writer-director Noah Baumbach’s tense tale of a couple ending their marriage divided audiences, with some viewers reporting they were surprised by whose “side” they ended up on. But critical reception for the film was almost universal in its praise of the story’s execution and impact, with leads Scarlett Johannson and Adam Driver singled out for their magnetic scene work. This artful depiction of intimacy remains a triumph of romantic storytelling, venturing far beyond the Happily Ever After audiences know so well.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

Hurling Matters

Sport Headquarters hosts semi-final battle supremo. Perhaps the cats had one eye on the championship, with top spot in their league division already secured, but more steel will be required against this in-form potent Wexford attack.

The hurling faithful are very aware of the talent of Lee Chin, who made his 100th appearance for Wexford hurlers last weekend at Nowlan Park.

Discipline will be key, as any

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

ALL roads lead to Croke Park tomorrow for the Leinster Championship Semi-Final meeting of old foes Kilkenny and Wexford.

(Throw-in 4:30pm) The Leinster Council gave the goahead last Monday for both semi-final’s to take place at headquarters. This will give the teams a chance to cast an eye over their potential final opponents.

No doubt Brian Cody has been planning for Davy Fitz’s men for some time now. In truth it would have been a monumental upset had Cheddar masterminded a Laois victory over Wexford.

It has been widely mooted that this will be the Clare natives last year in charge of the Yellowbellies, and if

this is the case his troops came out of the championship traps quickly.

If nothing else, Wexford’s Nowlan Park stroll will have given them a much-needed boost heading into this semifinal clash. The Kilkenny defence, questioned by some quarters this season, will have taken note of the 5-31 total registered by tomorrow’s opponents.

In Championship hurling, 5-31 is a big total to amass, but the most interesting stat from the game was that 5-28 of that total came from play. Padraig Walsh will need to ensure his defence are alert and on-point tomorrow.

As mentioned, some pundits have questioned the solidity of the cat’s defence in recent times. In the final league fixture in Ennis, Cody’s team shipped four goals, and that will have been of great concern to the Kilkenny

TJ Reid scores again

TJ scores

Cat’s seek purr-fect start

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Hurling Matters

Davy Fitzgerald Wexford Manager

Brian Cody

indiscretions will be punished

by Chin. It will be interesting to see how the O’Loughlin Gael’s duo of Huw Lawlor and Paddy Deegan deal with the opposition threat, particularly Rory O’Connor and Conor McDonald, who scored 3-11 from play between them against Laois.

Should the black and amber defence come out on top in their battle with the Wexford forwards, this should provide a decent platform for the other players to express themselves and give the opposition plenty to worry about.

Glemmore net-minder Eoin Murphy will be a key component in both defensive and offensive terms. His re-starts will be crucial, and has he has shown during the league campaign, he can be a vital cog in instigating wave after wave of attack.

One thing we have witnessed in the season so far, is Kilkenny’s determination to work the sliotar through all lines of the team at times – no doubt this variation from the longer delivery into the forward line is designed to engineer more goal scoring opportunities, over the course of the 70 plus minutes.

What we do know is that should Kilkenny have to go

long, the personnel should be available to exploit this. One such player is Walter Walsh, who returned for his first run-out of the season in the defeat to Clare. The towering forward certainly needed match time ahead of the championship, and despite leaving the field injured, should be available, and his manager will certainly look to use him at some stage of this battle. Obviously the Ballyhale forward duo of TJ Reid and captain Adrian Mullen will be out to wreak havoc amongst the Yellowbellies defenders, and no doubt Tullaroan’s Martin Keoghan will hope to continue his impressive league form on the bigger, more important stage.

The engine room of midfield should see Richie Reid reunited with Dicksboro’s Cillian Buckley, and they will look to come out on top in this vital sector, again providing the basis for the attack to flourish.

Again, the introduction of players from the bench could prove crucial and if push comes to shove, our strength in depth should see the Nore-siders progress to the provincial decider.

VERDICT: Cody’s charges to march on

>> SHERRY SAYS...........

Padraig Walsh

Eoin Murphy

SINCE Fitzgerald took control of the Slaney-siders, matches with Kilkenny have generally been close affairs, and the sometimes-controversial figure has enjoyed success at provincial level against the cat’s, notably the 2017 semi-final win, Davy would go one better and claim the Leinster title in 2019.

Cody will be hoping that defeating Wexford will set up a tilt at securing the 17th O’Keefe Cup of his reign, possibly against Galway, in a match that will also act as the league final decider.

Expect tomorrow’s encounter to be a little tighter that this year’s league meeting. The Black & Amber should be ready to meet the challenge and rise above whatever Davy’s boys throw at them.

Safe to say that Tullaroan’s Padraig Walsh and Ballyhale’s TJ Reid will bring bigger performances to Portlaoise than last time out in Ennis.

Both teams and their respective supporters will be acutely aware that failure to get over the line at Croke Park will result in their team dropping into the qualifiers, very much on the back foot.

For now, defeat in not contemplated. Time for the Cat’s to purr.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

Camogie news

Sport

Meighan Farrell

Sensational strike from Doyle seals win as Power returns!

Cats edg in Crok

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

KILKENNY’S camogs delivered yet more silverware following an exhilarating encounter with Galway at Croke Park recently.

Brian Dowling’s charges secured a three-point win at headquarters, following an inspired second half comeback.

The game was a repeat of December’s All-Ireland Final, and thankfully the cats again emerged victorious.

Like previous league matches this season, the cat’s started sluggishly and found themselves behind at the first water break. Galway were proving to be difficult opponents, with Carrie Dolan picking off some lovely scores.

However, our camogs are nothing if not resilient, and just like the quarter-final and semi-final wins over Limerick and Tipperary respectively, the girls dug deep and responded in the manner of All-Ireland champions.

Trailing at the interval, Kilkenny hit 1-5 without reply, turning a three-point deficit into a five-point advantage.

Mary O’Connell opened the scoring in the second half, but it was an absolutely outstanding goal from Aoife Doyle that lit the fuse for the black and amber camogs.

Having picked up the sliotar on the ‘40, Doyle showed a blistering turn of pace before unleashing an unstoppable shot to the roof of the net.

Galway kept fighting and drew level, before a wonderful score from Steffi Fitzgerald edged the cats ahead, two more scores would settle the affair.

Player of the match was Kilkenny net-minder, Aoife Norris who made 3 great saves in her sides victory.

Captain Meighan Farrell raised the trophy aloft and the players and management team celebrated a hard-fought but deserved win.

In the aftermath of his side’s victory, manager Brian Dowling paid tribute to his team: “The girls really upped the ante in the second half, especially the first 10 minutes after half-time,” a delighted

Aoife Doyle

Team with trophy

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

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Camogie news

e Galway e corker

Denise Gaule and Laura Murphy celebrate after the game

Brian Dowling

Aoife Norris

Dowling said after the fulltime whistle. ”We showed huge character there, Galway scored a goal and probably could have pushed on. But we got a score back which is great. Look, it was tough at the end. It could have gone either way and I thought it might be heading for extratime at one stage.

“I suppose we were fouling a lot in the first half and we wanted to cut that down as well, and wanted to run at Galway a bit more in the second half and I think we did that, and caused them problems.”

“Look, we’re delighted to get over the line and any time you win up here is great.”

As with the previous two comeback victories over Limerick and Tipp, the cats boss hailed the impact of the Kilkenny bench, citing Steffi Fitzgerald’s impact and the much-anticipated return of star player Katie Power.

“It’s brilliant to get Katie Power back on the pitch,” Dowling said of the Piltown forward who has struggled with injuries in recent years.

“I suppose we hadn’t planned for it but she went very well in a challenge

game last Sunday with the intermediates and Tuesday night at training.

“We said we’d get her on for 10 minutes no matter what way the game is going.

Katie has been through absolute hardship the last two years with injuries. I don’t think people would believe you if you explained what was going on.

“Just the work she’s after putting in, and we just wanted to get her back on this pitch. She had a positive impact which was brilliant.

“We’ll get another four weeks [of] tough training into Katie and hopefully she’ll be ready for championship.

“This time last year, she was in the stand and she was crying. She found it very tough to watch the girls winning. Just to get her back on the pitch and get 12 or 15 minutes into her is great.”

The camogs have now begun preparation for the championship, and will once again face-off against the tribes-women of Galway on the group stages. Based on this showing, the two sides may well meet again with more silverware at stake.

>> SHERRY SAYS...

WHAT a game! What a performance! Our camogs know how to put their fans through the mill!!

It was fitting that our national broadcaster had decided to televise the league decider live from Croker.

With this match also acting as a ‘test event’ for the re-introduction of spectators, 3,000 lucky Gaels were in attendance and witnessed an unbelievable advert for the women’ game.

‘Keeper Aoife Norris was outstanding, pulling off a string of fine saves. Denise Gaule, supported by others kept the scoreboard ticking over, but Aoife Doyle’s second half goal was a thing of beauty. The speed, the control, but most importantly the finish – BOOM! Winning the league title wasn’t the only victory – getting the talented Katie Power back on the pitch was the icing on the cake. Hopefully the injury-ravaged star can sustain a healthy campaign which we all hope will end in more glory at Croker!

Like their hurling counterparts, Brian Dowling’s panel now focus their minds on the championship.

This resilient bunch have plenty more in the tank – let’s hope we see the tank emptied many more times this season.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

kilkennyobserver.ie

Skate boarding competition

Go Skate Day is celebrated internationally on 21st June, and this year Kilkenny Skate Park decided to mark the occasion by hosting their very own competition in the new skate park on Sunday 27 June.

All images: Danny Lahart

Go skate at Kilkenny Skate Park Renamed Go Skate Day in 2004, the original event called Go Skateboarding Day, started in the USA. It’s an annual event organised by the International Association of Skateboard Companies but grew from the All Star City Skate Jam held by Kerel “Srikala” Roach and Bryan Chin in 2002 in New York City. Promoting skateboarding accessibility was the reason Go Skate Day was founded, and for this

reason, the longest day of the year was chosen to celebrate. The day quickly became an international event with many skate companies and skate shops sponsoring local events around the globe.

In Kilkenny, organisers felt the event should definitely be marked especially as we now have our very own skate park in the Abbey Quarter. It was a sunny day and lots came down to get involved with

the various events organised. There was a mini-ramp competition, boys and girls kids competitions, street skate, flatland and a massive game of SKATE (a similar concept to DONKEY) which rounded up the day nicely. It was a great day and the amount of people who showed up and got involved shows there is a real appetite for the sport in Kilkenny. Organisers hope it will become an annual event.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

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Skate boarding competition U18s Winners:

BOYS: Street: Victor Zorzan Mini Ramp: Dylan Lynch Game of Skate: Victor Zorzan, 2nd Oram Grace GIRLS JAM: Aislin Konings Ferrari

O18s Winners:

Mini Ramp: Russel Enigma 2nd Jayface Game of Skate: Łuki, 2nd Michael Deen Street: Isaac Burke, 2nd Daniel Pikurs

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Motoring

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 July 2021

Motors Classifieds

Classified section To advertise your business in our classified section call in or telephone: 056 777 1463, or email: accounts @kilkennyobserver.ie

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Classifieds Motors

NOW OPEN SATURDAY MORNINGS 9.30am to 12.00pm

CAR WASH – 056 7726289 TYRE BREAKDOWN SERVICE

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

FRANK AND NELLIE MALONE ANNIVERSARIES Frank Malone 20th Anniversary

Nellie Malone 14th Anniversary

In loving memory of Frank and Nellie, late of Wolfe Tone Street, Kilkenny whose anniversaries occur at this time.

Time and years step gently by But love and memories never die Always remembered by Val, Marie Lily and Families.

GERALDINE RYAN BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE Birthday remembrance of Geraldine Ryan, Greenfields, Freshford Road, Kilkenny whose birthday occurs at this time.

Missed and loved daughter Nini, sons Eoghan & Niall sisters & brothers, grandchildren, daughter-in-law Jenny and her many many friends.

R.I.P

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. J.ON

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

A prayer to the Blessed Virgin

JOSEPHINE RYAN 7TH ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Josephine Ryan, Greenfields, Freshford Road, Kilkenny whose 7th anniversary occurs at this time.

Loved and missed every day.

Phil, Fran, Martin, Anne, Richard grandchildren and great grandchildren R.I.P

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

Beloved St. Clare,

by your trust in God’s providence, obtain help for all the poor and needy; by your love for the Infant Jesus, obtain the protection of our families; by your love for Jesus crucified, obtain for us courage in every trial; by your love for Jesus in the Eucharist, obtain our request……….. by your attentiveness to the Holy Spirit, obtain for us the grace of prayer and devotion; by your likeness to Mary our Mother, obtain peace in our hearts our homes and our world.

Amen. A.ON

(never known to fail).

O most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, O Star of the sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to grant my request.

(Please state request). There are none that can withstand your power. O show me herein you are my Mother. I place this cause in your hands (three times). Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. Amen.

This prayer must be said for three days and after this the request will be granted. This prayer must be published immediately. M.B

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Memoriams/Miracle prayers

News Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL I, David Gay intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Planning Permission to retain 2no. sheds to the rear of my site and all associated site development works at 5 Marian Place, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9.00 a.m. – 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL I, Michael Brennan intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Planning Permission to retain a garage and all associated site development works at Grange Upper, Gowran, Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9.00 a.m. – 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application 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 Retention permission is sought by Ger Cullen for the following: (1.) To retain single storey dwelling house, (2.) relocation of the existing dwelling, (3.) retention of existing single storey Shed/Log store, (4.) retention of existing single storey Gym/store building, (5.) relocation of site entrance and (6.) Alterations to site boundaries from previously granted planning permission ref. no. P. 00/490 and all associated site development works at Woollengrange, Thomastown, 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.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL Planning Permission is sought for the construction of a new replacement foul water treatment system and for Retention of the change of use of an existing office to a standalone 2 bedroom apartment and for Retention of the conversion of an existing standalone games room building to a 1 bedroom apartment both of which are ancillary and associated with the main residence at Lyrath, Dublin Road, 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. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Applicant: Eamonn and Kathleen Tynan.

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