Picture Special

Ken and Liz Kinsella and Bellathe dog

Kevin Casey with his bird Frieda

About WITH Danny Lahart Out &

Brendan Kiely Sinead Hehir and Ray Pierick

JB Vendamme feeding a little Robin

Jonboy Wallace Stephen Clarke

Sarah Kennedy, Martin Treacy,Liam McEvoy, Gar Reidy

Great to see the Kilkenny torist train back around town

Bernie and John fromDublin enjoying a weekend away in Kilkenny Mary and Mingha Flannery

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news

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.

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.

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

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 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.

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

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.

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. 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

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.

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/

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, 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.

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.

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.

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 LovesLocal 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 the11 Hole Mixed Scramblewhich 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.

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 Commission 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