TV & Streaming

e historical drama series everyone is buzzing about

Net ix having debuted its spino /sequel of the History Channel’s wildly popular Vikings, fans of the franchise can judge for themselves whether this new series (titled Vikings: Valhalla, set more than 100 years after the original) meets the high bar of the original Vikings. e series certainly looks ambitious enough. Vikings: Valhalla is set in the early 11th century. And it “chronicles the heroic adventures of some of the most famous Vikings” who ever lived.

Including legendary explorer Leif Eriksson (Sam Corlett), his ery sister Freydis Eriksdotter (Frida Gustavsson), and the ambitious Nordic prince Harald Sigurdsson (Leo Suter).

As tensions between the Vikings and the English royals reach a bloody breaking point and as the Vikings themselves clash over their con icting Christian and pagan beliefs, these three Vikings begin an epic journey that will take them across oceans and through battle elds, from Kattegat to England and beyond, as they ght for survival and glory.

Executive producer Morgan O’Sullivan was also an executive producer on the predecessor series. He apparently approached Vikings: Valhalla showrunner Jeb Stuart about this new show three years ago. Along with Vikings creator and writer Michael Hirst (who write 89 episodes of the original series), they laid out a plan for doing something new. Something that wouldn’t be just another season of the original series.

“In a strange way — if you take massive violence out of the equation — the Vikings embody some of the elements that we still most want for ourselves,” Stuart said. “ ey were great explorers. ey were often very inquisitive and open to learning ... Women could not only divorce their husbands, they could also rule kingdoms and own property. If you could earn it, you could take what you wanted from life.

“It’s a timeless story. Our characters are dealing with relationships and issues that are just as relevant today as they were a thousand years ago.”

Because of that, he continued, such stories “will always excite and captivate us.”

Over at Rotten Tomatoes, the series has come out pretty strong, right out of the gate.

As of the time of this writing, the show has a 100 percent critics score. at’s thanks to praise like this, from e Hollywood Reporter: “Even if Valhalla never quite reaches the heights of the Vikings mothership, the show it settles into becoming is pretty strong and satisfying on its own.”

Catastrophe back for fourth season

THE fourth season of Catastrophe is coming to Amazon Prime Video this month. e show focuses on a couple — played by series creators Sharon Horgan and Rob Delaney — who got together after a onenight stand turned into a pregnancy. ey now live in London and grapple with marital issues, job demands and kids.

Coming in March: MARCH 1

A Sky Full of Stars for a Roof (E per tetto un cielo di stelle) (1968) A Woman Possessed (1958) Abduction (2017) Amelia’s 25th (2013) American Beauty (1999) Baba Yaga (1973) Basic Instinct 2 (2006) Big Night (1996) Black Cat (Gatto nero) (1981) Black Sheep (1996) Boomerang (1992) Carpool (1996) City of the Living Dead (Paura nella città dei morti viventi) (1980) Death at a Funeral (2007) Deep Red (Profondo rosso) (1975) Double Jeopardy (1999) Dude, Where’s My Dog?! (2014) Enter the Invincible Hero (Heugpyobigaeg) (1977) From Beneath (2012) Jig (2011) Karl Rove, I Love You (2007)

MARCH 8

Let Sleeping Corpses Lie (No profanar el sueño de los muertos) (1974) Major Payne (1995) A Man Called Blade (Mannaja) (1977) Nacho Libre (2006) Overkill (1987) P.O.E.: Project of Evil (2012) Prison Girls (1972) Rambo III (1988) Ride Out for Revenge (1957) Setup (2011) So Young So Bad (1950) Still Waiting... (2009) Tapeheads (1988) e American (2010) e Apple (1980) e Bank Job (2008) e Chumscrubber (2005) e Crazies (1973) e Dead and the Damned (2011) e Mighty Quinn (1989) UFO (2018) Us and the Game Industry (2014) Valerie (1957) Vice Squad (1982) Waiting... (2005)

You Did is to Me (2016) Boston Legal (Seasons 1- 5) Little House on the Prairie (Seasons 1-9) e Practice (Seasons 1- 9) e Unit (Seasons 1-4) Costume Quest, Prime Original Series (Season 1)

5

to watch right now on Netflix

Mudbound from 2017 gives you a historical look at class struggle through the lens of a Black veteran and a white veteran who both still have one foot stuck in World War II. Dealing with PTSD and racism in the Mississippi Delta, with a cast that includes Garrett Hedlund and Jason Mitchell, Mudbound’s tempest will rivet you to the spot.

More than a decade after her previous lm, Bright Star, extraordinary lmmaker Jane Campion has unfolded the director’s chair again to oversee e Power of the Dog (she wrote the script too). e 2021 movie centres on Phil Burbank, a rancher who uses the power of toxic masculinity to have his way, mocking his brother for falling in love. What happens when Phil starts to feel the same ridiculous sensitivities? e Power of the Dog is a mesmeric exercise in the subtle shifts of emotion and power in relationships, emotion that doesn’t feel subtle at all within each character. Benedict Cumberbatch, Jesse Plemons and Kirsten Dunst help bring Campion’s masterful vision to life. Oscar buzz is in the air.

Tom Hanks in a 2020 Western directed by Jason Bourne’s Paul Greengrass. Enjoy Hanks going full Mandalorian single dad mode as Captain Je erson Kyle Kidd, a Civil War veteran who discovers a young girl years after she was captured by Native Americans as a baby. In between helping to return her to her family, he does his usual job of traveling to towns and reading newspapers for a small fee. Don’t expect high-octane action: is road movie is fuelled more by character development and the beautiful views. Still, you’ll want to settle in for a comforting ride with pure sympathetic Hanks at the steering wheel.

e Coen Brothers kick up the western dust with an 2018 anthology lm that gives you six vignettes all set on the American frontier. One of them is about the titular Buster Scruggs, a chipper singing cowboy who casually sets o a shoot-up in a cantina. But there’s a dark twist that keeps you on your toes. Sewing the rest of its stories together with a constant black humor, e Ballad of Buster Scruggs is a Coen Brothers winner.

Vampires vs. the Bronx is a unique comedy-horror in more ways than one. Set in the New York borough of the Bronx, the 2020 movie follows young Miguel Martinez, a big-hearted kid helping to raise money for his struggling local bodega before it’s forced to sell. But it’s not just new designer clothing stores threatening to move in: Creepy pale neck-chompers are eating up people and their properties. A commentary on gentri cation with goofy charm, twists and thrills, Vampires vs. the Bronx is a fresh, entertaining spin on the genre.

Plaque to remember innocent council worker shot dead after a prayer at the Friary

John Dullard, lays a wreath at the plaque on Friary Street where his grandfather Thomas was shot and killed. (Le ) John Dullard and Kitty Phelan, grandchildren of Thomas Dullard who was shot during The Friary Street Ambush on February 21st 1921. One hundred and one years later, John and Kitty visit the Friary Church, just as their grandfather did on that fatal day

PHOTOS BY PAT SHORTALL

e German philosopher Georg Hegel famously said, “ e only thing that we learn from history, is that we learn nothing from history”.

But history, depending on where it is sourced, can be blemished.

Often, stories that were handed down from father to son, or mother to daughter may or may not contain the full truth.

People might choose to omit that which they do not care to remember.

One wonders was such the case with Kilkenny County Council worker omas Dullard.

Indeed you would be forgiven if his name is not known to you.

Even the mention of, and his connection to, e Friary Street Ambush may not enlighten you.

You would not be on your own. anks to ‘ e Kilkenny Historical Re-enactment Group’, omas Dullard’s name, and the reason why he should be remembered has found its way onto a plaque on Friary Street.

THE FRIARY STREET AM BUSH

On February 21st, 1921, three men lost their lives in what has become known as ‘ e Friary Street Ambush’.

Two of those were members of the local IRA. e plaque which is positioned at the junction of Pennyfeather Lane and Friary Street reads as follows; ‘At this spot, Capt. omas Hennessy and Michael Dermody (NCO), two brave soldiers of e Irish Republican army, gave their lives in the cause of Irish Freedom on February 21st, 1921, during the War of Independence. To perpetuate their memories, this plaque was erected by the members of the 1st Battalion Kilkenny Brigade I.R.A.’ e third person to die was a local Council worker called omas Dullard, who was an innocent bystander.

But it is only in recent years that the name of omas Dullard has come to the fore. omas Dullard was a corporation worker and father of four who just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. He would die of his wounds.

At a brief gathering on Sunday 20th of February 2022, members of e Kilkenny Historical Re-enactment group, family members of Mr Dullard and a few friends gathered to remember the County Council worker. anks to research by Berni Egan, we can take a closer look at the aftermath of the shooting of omas Dullard.

Following the shooting of Mr Dullard, a military court of enquiry was held in Kilkenny on 22nd February 1921.

One witness who testi ed was Bridget Dullard, wife of omas.

At this stage, let us remind ourselves of the state of play in Ireland.

IRELAND DECLARED AN INDEPENDENT NATION In January 1919, following a landslide victory in the previous December’s election, a new government was set up in Dublin, called Dáil Eireann, which had declared Ireland an independent nation. By 1920, British authority was collapsing and in an e ort to regain control, Emergency powers, and later Martial Law was declared in much of southern Ireland.

Ireland was becoming an increasingly nervous and violent society as attacks and reprisals by the IRA and the authorised military apparatus of the Royal Irish Constabulary, the Auxiliaries and Army continued. Kilkenny, as a traditional barracks town, would not escape unscathed in these troubled times.

Each morning, following the same timetable and same route, a limber carrying rations for Kilkenny Gaol would leave the military barracks on Ballybought Street and travel via John’s St, Rose Inn St, High St, and Friary Street, making its way to Kilkenny Gaol.

Protecting this limber were seven soldiers of the Devonshire Regiment, divided into three groups. ese soldiers would be armed with loaded guns and xed bayonets. Such an obvious display of weapons would prove a tempting target for the local Volunteers, and a plan for an ambush was drawn up by the local IRA.

Monday morning, 21st of February was the agreed date to execute a planned ambush, and orders were given that they would not shoot the soldiers but instead attack and physically overpower them with the intention of disarming them. omas and Bridget Dullard, having breakfast were blissfully unaware of the events unfolding around the corner from their house.

All accounts in the British archives le agree that around eighteen civilians, men, women and children were also on the street that morning. Shots rang out in quick succession, and two IRA members, omas Hennessy and Michael Dermody fell to the ground. e people who had been on the street were running to escape.

A civilian male suddenly appeared about twenty- ve yards down the street near the Friary.

Another shot was red and he too fell. A search of the bodies found one dead from a shot to the abdomen and the other two with severe head wounds, unlikely to survive.

Bridget Dullard soon discovered that the third casualty was her husband omas, who had just left their house to go to work in the corporation. e Next morning Bridget had to attend Kilkenny Barracks for an enquiry in lieu of an inquest into the shootings, and formally identi ed her husband’s body.

After many witness statements, the ndings concluded that both omas Hennessy and omas Dullard had died due to gunshot wounds.

Shots had been red at Dullard thinking he was one of the attacking party. e Military refused any responsibility for his death stating ‘he had only himself to blame as he was running away from the scene of the ambush.’

It was recorded that Dullard went to work each morning as a corporation worker at seven a.m., returning home for breakfast at nine a.m.

He returned to work at about quarter to ten. He had a habit of stopping into the Friary on the way to say a prayer. It was while leaving the Friary on the morning of 21st February that the ambush occurred, and as he ran away he was shot.

Witnesses from the Military party that day were called and stated no arms were found on his person.

A Captain Sinclair declared that his wounds had been caused by a ricochet bullet.

After deliberation, his Honour came to the conclusion that the death had been accidental and expressed his sympathy to Mrs Dullard, but no compensation would be awarded to her. e widow’s plea for aid had fallen on deaf ears.

On Christmas Day, 1931 Bridget herself died of kidney failure. omas Dullard’s tragic demise as part of the events in Friary St had almost been forgotten.

A plaque to commemorate the death of omas Dullard was erected by Kilkenny County Council last week.

Congratulations to e Kilkenny Historical Re-enactment group for instigating the idea and following through with it.

Special word of praise to Gargan sculptors, Friary Street, for their professionalism in creating the plaque and for the restoration of Mr Dullard’s grave stone in Patrick’s Graveyard.

Patrick Phelan (right) grandson, and Kian Phelan (great grandson) of Thomas Dullard visited The Friary Church in Kilkenny 101 years to the day that Thomas was shot and killed. Thomas Dullard had just le the Friary when he was shot

Ronan Maher, Fidelis Doherty and Marian Flannery

All pix: Danny Lahart

Tadgh Buckley and Pat Crotty

Hilary and Catherine Lennon Alana Dragic

Martin Bridgeman

THIS WEEK, in our look at the recently published book of poetry and prose by e Kilkenny Involvement Centre and e Recovery College, we feature work from Martha Woodcock, Izzy Tiernan and Mary Woods

Much More Than Words

If ever a book deserved the award for ‘ e Perfect Title’ surely that accolade must go to a new compilation of poetry Much More an Words. Indeed its very title describes comprehensively the diversity of the treasures to be discovered within its covers. is volume of carefully crafted poems, interspersed with prose and enhanced with well-chosen images, is the second collection produced by e Involvement Centre Kilkenny and the rst in a joint venture with e Recovery College. e Kilkenny Observer Newspaper is delighted to promote the work of e Involvement Centre and e Recovery College, and so, will publish a selection of their work over the coming months. ‘Much More Than Words’ can

be purchased at the following Kilkenny outlets: Bargain Books, The Butterslip Khans Bookshop, James’ Street & The Book Centre, High Street. Price: €10

Martha Woodcock Remember

I remember my mam; her smiles, her good humour. I remember my mam; people said she was ahead of her time And she was. I remember her famous sh dish; she won a competition for it. I remember by the time she won we were very sick of cod and parsley sauce and scalloped tomatoes and cucumbers cut in spirals with a gadget she bought at the Spring Show. I remember her calm in a crisis – for anyone who needed her calm in their crisis. I remember when she stopped remembering. e worst remembering of all.

Martha Woodcock

Royalty Izzy Tiernan

e young are royalty When you are that full of exuberance On top of the world In every sense of the word You are a queen without a throne. Branding a cigarette as Joan Brandished her sword. Martyrs of the good times Chalices lled with cider Shitty wine in the cinema; Hail to the reckless youth

Izzy Tiernan

It’s Time Mary Woods

It’s time to move on Evolve and forgive Not necessarily forget ose people who did not live. But our paths are entwined roughout harsh history e famine, the troubles and the wars All brought us down to our knees. And we must remember ose people, on both sides, Who gave up their lives, With respectful empathy ere will always be disagreements As we are as di erent as snow akes But we will build bridges It is all give and take…..

Mary Woods

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news

CAMOGIE Best wishes to Peter “Chap” Cleere as he takes the reins as the new Clara Senior Camogie manager for 2022. Clara have been beaten narrowly in county semi finals in each of the last two seasons and hopes are high that Chap is the man that can take the girls that extra step. Chap’s familiarity with big day dressing rooms will definitely be a help to the girls. Good luck to all. FOOTBALL The Clara minors progressed to the quarter finals of the 2022 Roinn B Championship on Sunday by virtue of a resounding 6-8 to 2-6 win over hosts Ballyraggett. Playing with a strong first half breeze, Clara conceded the first point before Rory Glynn goaled a er four minutes. Two minutes later the same player added another goal and although Ballyraggett replied with a point the rest of the half belonged to Clara. Further goals from Alex McDonald and Joe Power as well as two points each from Harry Boyle and Rory Glynn and a pointed free by Ned Langton le them 4-5 to 0-2 ahead at the break. Ballyraggett opened the second half with a goal but their hopes were dashed with an immediate Joe Power goal response. Ned Langton tacked on a free and then Luke Lawlor goaled from his new full forward position to quash any notion of a comeback. In fairness to Ballyraggett they never stopped trying and added 1-4 to their tally before the end. Conor Hoyne and Ned Langton kept the scoreboard ticking with a point each from play and David Barcoe saved a penalty and also made another great stop that he tipped out for a 45. It was a great display by the Clara boys in their first outing of the year. They were disciplined in their tackling, worked hard for each other and were committed throughout. With attitude like this they will be hard to beat. Team - David Barcoe, Tommy Delaney, Cian Kelly, Ben Murphy. Alex Firbank, Ben Crow, Sean Carrigan. Luke Lawlor 1-0, Zach Lawlor. Harry Boyle 0-2, Ned Langton 0-3, 0-2f, Alex McDonald 1-0. Conor Hoyne 0-1, Rory Glynn 2-2, Joe Power 2-0. Subs Philip Carrigan, Hugh Kelly, Dillon Cummins, John Bergin, James Cody, Tom Murphy, Bill Kealy, Tom Boyle, Eoin Corr, Orí Phelan.

CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of this week’s club lotto ( February 22nd) Numbers Drawn were Next Weeks Big Prize will be €6,400 ( March 1st). Play Now at www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto Promotors Draw: 1. Mark Ryan c/o Neil Loy. 2. Beth Holohan c/o Peter Dowling 3. Theresa Trehy c/o John Joe Cullen. 4. Jimmy & Ann Doyle c/o Esther Maher 5. Marie Hogan c/o Hugh Mahon. 6. Amy & Eileen c/o Eileen Kinchella 7. Jackie Tyrrell. 8. Mary O’Neill c/o Willie O’Neill (On-line) 9. Sarah Burke c/o Online. 10. Con Moore c/o Online Thank you for your continued support of O’Loughlin Gaels Club Lotto. All monies raised continue to support the maintenance and upgrade of facilities to benefit all our players for many years to come. Your support is greatly appreciated. Should you know anybody else who you feel we may have lost touch with or may be interested in supporting the club, please forward contact them asking them to play and support the club JUVENILE TRAINING RETURN This weekend will see our youngest Gaels return to St. Johns Park. Coaches have been getting ready, grounds are in top shape and our boys and girls from around St. Johns Parish are eager to hit the ground running. Camogie returns on Saturday March 5th at 10am and Hurling on Sunday at 10:30am. All the registration details can be found at www.oloughlingaels.com/ membership JOSEPHINE BURKE Our condolences to the Burke family on the passing of their beloved Josephine. We extend our sympathies to Josephine’s husband Liam, past secretary of O’Loughlin Gaels and one of the clubs founding members. Ar dheis dé go raibh a anam dílís. EASTER CAMP Easter Camp runs April 18th to the 22nd. For all the details and advance bookings contact Mark at 087 299 5892 or Stephen at 085 718 1325. Lovely Hurling . #GaeilUíLochlainnAbú TEAM NEWS Well done you our Senior Footballers who had a good win over rivals James Stephens at the Kells Road on Saturday in tough conditions. Our Juvenile footballers are not having the same fortunes however as both the u13s and Minors found it tough going against James Stephens and Dicksboro last weekend. Well done to Mikey Butler, Paddy Deegan and Conor Heary who all played their parts in Kilkenny’s win over Laois in the National Hurling League. Finally well done to minor hurler Jack Johnson who put in a big performance that saw him box his way to becoming IABA Leinster Champion and looks forward to competing in the national finals in two weeks time representing Marble City Boxing Club . Well done Jack

WON AWARD Congratulation are extended to our local Takeaway Brennans sisters in the village who were finalists in the Yes Chef Takeaway awards last weekend. The winners were announced at a Gala Dinner held at Raddison Blu Hotel, Athlone on Friday night last. The establishment won the award for Best Kebab. Well done to Rahim and his team of workers. They were celebrating ten years in business in the village last week and the award was a nice bonus to mark the occasion. They run a successful business and have stayed open and facilitated customers all during the pandemic and are wished many more years of success in the village. SQUASH Congratulations to two local men Pat Morrissey and Noel Walsh who took part in the Munster Senior Close last weekend. Pat finished in 3rd place in the A Section while Noel finished in 2nd place in the B section. SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to the family of Brother Michael Mackey late of De La Salle, Castletown, County Laois and formerly of Graigueswood, Freshford on his death recently. His family were well known and respected in the local area. Funeral mass took place on Wednesday of last week at The Pastoral Centre Chapel Castletown followed by Burial in the adjoining cemetery. Sympathy is also extended to MS. Betty O’Connor, Clashacrow and all her family on the recent death of her mother Mrs. Anna Cummins late of Ballybeigh Tullaroan. Funeral mass took place in Tullaroan church on Friday morning last followed by burial in Tullaroan Cemetery. CAMOGIE St. Lachtain’s Camogie Club were well represented on the Kilkenny Senior and Intermediate panels at the weekend. Lydia Fitzpatick was on the senior team while Sinead Farrell, Emma Bergin and Chloe Dooley were part of the Intermediate panel. St Lachtain’s Camogie Club Registration for the coming 2022 season is now open. Registration is online via Foireann. https://www.foireann.ie/. For any new members that may be unsure on how to navigate the system please don’t hesitate to contact Emma Hickey (Registrar) (086) 1930214 for any assistance. The Club look forward to seeing you all back on the pitch over the coming weeks! DEATH The death took place last week of Liam Dermody late of Coollcashin, Gathabawn. Liam who was in his 70s and his passing caused widespread shock and regret. Both he and his family are widely known and respected in the area. Funeral Mass took place on Sunday morning last in Gatabawn Church followed by burial in St.Lachtains Cemetery Freshford. He is mourned by his brother Michael, sisters Breda Betty and Peggy, Nephews, brother in law and extended family to whom deepest sympathy is extended. CAFE Freshford are to get a new Community Café. Work has commenced on the premises at Buncrussia Street Freshford, and the volunteers are making great progress. The subcommittee are so grateful for the very generous donations of building materials from local families and business and greatly appreciate all the materials, time, labour, advice been given and they say that they are well on their way to having a fabulous community café by the community and for the community. ROAD SAFETY CLLR Michael McCarthy says that a pole is now in place to accommodate a new Feeder Speedback Sign on the Ballyragget Road at Bohergloss, Freshford. This should lead to increased safety for Road users and residents of Bohergloss. These are a welcome addition to the Road safety measures in the Village and thanks is due to the Area Engineer and his sta for their help HOME FROM THE USA Thomas Bergin formerly of Woodview Freshford is on a visit to his native Freshford from the USA at present. Thomas and his family have been living in the USA for many years and this is his first visit home since before the pandemic. Thomas and his family celebrated a very Special birthday at the weekend. It was his Mams Cissie Bergin of Woodview Freshford birthday and she was joined by her family at a lovely meal to mark the occasion. LOTTO WINNER Our local corner shop here in the village O’Sheas Newsagents had massive news during the past week when they learned they were sellers of a Lotto winning quick pick for €10,000. Congratulations to the lucky winners. PLAYGROUND NEWS The Freshford Playground Committee got some bad news recently. Despite having got Planning permission recently, there has been an appeal lodged to An Bord Pleanala regarding the Playground and the Committee now have to wait a further six months before they know if they can proceed. SOCCER Freshford Town had as number of teams in action at the weekend. On Sunday morning the Juniors were in action against Castlewarren in a home league game. The local side came out winners on a 1-0 scoreline with Michael Kenny getting the all important goal. In the schoolboys section the U11 boys were away to River Rangers and came out 5-0 winners. The U13 boys were at home to Evergreen and this game ended in a 2-2 draw with Cian Dalton and Paddy McCarthy scoring for Freshford Town. The U17 boys took on Bridge United at home on Saturday and came out winners on a 4-3 score line. Jerry Bergin got a hat trick with Shane Culleton getting the other goal. Meanwhile the U9s side took on Callan at home. The training sessions for U8s continues each Saturday morning (weather permitting) from 12noon to 1pm at the Sportfield at Woodview. All boys from 5 to 8 years old are welcome so go along and join up. MACRA NA FEIRME Macra na Feirme are looking to establish a new club in the Freshford area. Macra na Feirme is an organisation for young people between the ages of 17 and 35 who are interested in getting involved in sports, travel, drama, debating or just want to meet new people and have some fun. To be a member of Macra you must join a Macra club in your area. This will open the door to new fiends and new activities. There are hundreds of clubs across Ireland bursting with activity who always welcome a new face. For more information please contact Training and Development O icer. Michael Wall on 0868359891 or email him at mwall@ macra.ie DARTS This year’s darts leagues are back and in full swing again. Kavanaghs 2 beat The Valley 2 in Mackey’s on Sunday evening, while The Valley 1 beat Farrell’s 1 in Kavanaghs also on Sunday. (full reports next week) GAA NEWS St.Lachtains Bord na nOg AGM will be held on Friday evening next the 25th Feb at 7:30pm in the Clubrooms. All are Welcome especially Parents,Guardians,Coaches. If at all possible the Club ask can one parent from each family attend. The Clubs shop is open and 2022 range is soon to be uploaded onto the O’Neills club shop. Details can be found on St.Lachtains Social media pages or by O’Neills sportswear and searching for St.Lachtains GAA. PARISH NEWS

Attendance at indoor settings are now back to full capacity and attendance at Mass almost back to normal here to. Mass in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and on Sunday morning at 11am.with Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 7.30pm. Some Safety measures remain in place which includes wearing of masks, sanitising and you have the option to be seated without any seating restrictions in the top and middle section of the church or with seating restrictions elsewhere. This year is the 1400 year celebration of St.Lachtain and it is fast approaching beginning with a special liturgical celebration at 3pm on March 19th when we will be joining with our Church of Ireland Brothers and sisters on that special day. Further details will be published nearer to that date. The Stations of the Cross in the Church have now been completely refurbished. Help to complete this special project of restoration through donation or contriubution is more than welcome . Yours also very welcome to sponsor a station either as a family or with a group The sum involved is €2,000 per station. This month the safeguarding reps are competing their Safeguarding training and refresher courses. This in service is important in maintaining the safeguarding standards in the Parish especially for vulnerable and for children. NOTICES The parish newsletter is available on their website every week and also on the website you are free to pay your dues and make donations or any other contributions and you can find out more about it on the website or feel free to contact Jennifer in the Parish O ice. Please note community notices for the parish newsletter should be le in or emailed to the Parish O ice by 11am on Thursdays. Parish o ice hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 1pm. MASS CARDS Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish O ice or from Annette at Tulla Church signed by Monsignor Kennedy. You can contact the Parish o ice on 056 8832843 or by email – freshfordd@ossory.ie. Contact Mongr Kieron Kennedy COMMUNITY ALERT Freshford Threecastles Community Alert Group remind you again that the annual text alert scheme membership is now due. It cost just 10euro per phone number and you can pay membership to any committee member. If unsure or for more information please call Jacinta on 0877658671 or Anna on 0858277965. New members are always very welcome and the group wish to thank you all for your continued support.You are reminded to take care of yourself and take care of your elderly neighbours and friends. PILGRIMAGE Pilgrimage to Lourdes will be held from 9th to 13thMay 2022. Staying at the 4 star Hotel Astrid the trip costs €645 pps (single room supplement payable). Accompanied by spiritual director. Includes return direct flights from Dublin to Tarbes, coach transfers breakfast lunch and dinner each day, full religious programme, services of a Marian pilgrimage guide, mass daily and spiritual activities, all taxes and travel insurance. For more details contact C.Flynn on 089 4638769. HELP FOR ALL Are you struggling with anxiety or depression or finding life di icult or feeling isolated at this time, GROW is there to help you. Their Mental Health support Groups are free and confidential and open to all no referral or booking is needed. For more information on same you can contact Mary If you can’t cope and need support text HELLO to 50808. SAMARITAN - Whatever you’re going through a Samaritan will face it with you – available 24 hours a day 365 days a year – Freephone 1161Alone is available for older people who need support and you can call them on 0818 222024 (8am to 8pm) AMBER KILKENNY WOMENS REFUGE – is available for confidential support relating to domestic violence - call them on 1850 424244 (24/7) or on 056 7771404 or email into@amberwomensrefuge.ie.

Sta and management of Brennan Sisters Takeaway. Award Winners

Kilmoganny Tidy Towns will participate in the National Spring Clean from Friday 4th March to Sunday 6th March. Meeting each morning at 11 am at the St Eoghans Church. Please come along to volunteer and be part of this litter pick. Tell your neighbours and friends to join in . All bags, gloves and pickers will be provided. If you have any questions please contact Lorraine Moore on 0876414147. LOCAL LOTTO Local Lotto Draw for 21st February. Winning Numbers: 5,9,31. No Winner. Winners of Draw for 5 x € 30. Mags and Shane ( Mags Cahill ),Eileen Gerard (Jimmy McCormack ), Olive and Alan Buckley ( Jim Dalton ), Roy Ellis ( Niamh O Donovan ),Phena He ernan ( Mary He ernan ) Jackpot Next Week (Monday February 28th) € 5,800 Venue Delaney’s Bar Kells at 9pm. All welcome. DUNNAMAGGIN DEVELOPMENT GROUP Our next Community Gathering on Sunday the 13th March at 11.30am will be followed by our AGM and the launch of the five year Vision for Dunnamaggin. Everyone is welcome to attend and we look forward to seeing you all there. We are encouraging everyone to come along and see the outcome of the consultations that have taken place over the last twelve months despite Covid-19. The monthly markets will return to Madge’s Garden on Easter Sunday April 17th and will continue until December. DUNNA DASH The Dunna Dash takes place next Sunday March 6th. Dunna Dash isn’t just for runners,it’s the perfect chance to get on your walking shoes, grab a friend and get out the door for a stroll or power walk around our scenic Dunnamaggin loop!! Registration at St Leonards NS at 11am. Adults €10, Children €5, Families €20. Prizes for first male, female and juvenile. This year will see the return of the “Kiddies 1km Dash” for school children from 3rd class down and will start at 11.45am. All children will receive a medal for this event. The main Dunna Dash will start at 12 noon. Refreshments a erwards in the school. SAINT JOSEPH’S HOME Saint Joseph’s Home: a fundraising ra le in aid of St.Joseph care home Kilmoganny Tickets 3 for €5, available from Mary Moylan, Denise Kirwan, Jackie Kennelly and will be in local shops. DUNNAMAGGIN LADIES FOOTHBALL CLUB Well done to our U16s who played their 2021 League Final in James Park V Kilkenny City last Saturday February 26th. Harsh weather, injuries and strong opponents made for a tough match. Despite the girls best e orts it was not to be our day and City ran out convincing winners. The same day in Carlow our U14s had their first championship blitz day. They faced Meath, Laois and Wexford winning one out of three encounters. Well done to our club mentor Séamus Knox who manages the squad. They are out again next Saturday at Leinster Championship blitz day 2 when they will face Dublin, Wicklow and Westmeath. Well done to all involved this group can look forward now to a well deserved end of season presentation night very soon. Don’t forget the LIDL STAMP REWARDS FOR LGFA CLUBS are back!!! Please support Dunnamaggin LGFC when shopping in Lidl.

GOWRAN BINGO Bingo in Gowran Parish Hall on Thursday’s at 8.30pm. Jackpot €700 in 42 calls GOWRAN ON THE MOVE Gowran’s new playground and outdoor hub was awarded €250,000 under the Town and Village renewal scheme. The new flagship outdoor space will be an inclusive space for all ages and abilities to play, exercise and socialise in the heart of our beautiful village. Congratulations to everyone involved. THE KILKENNY COUNTY MUSIC FESTIVAL The festival is back this year in Gowran Park, and it will take place on Sunday 3rd July featuring a host of top-class Country Singers. Performing on the day will be Mike Denver, Cliona Hagan, Robert Mizzell, Trudi Lalor, Jimmy and Claudia Buckley with backing band The Conquerors. Tickets now on Sale and for further information, check out kilkennycountrymusicfestival. ie or email kkcountrymusic@gmail.com SEAN NOS WORKSHOP The dancing workshop will take place with Laura Ganley on March 6th from 2pm to 4pm at Ionad Dara, Goresbridge. Entry is €10. For more information, please contact Majella on 086 354 3539. SPORTS ROUND-UP MICHAEL O’LEARY GOWRAN GIRLS FEATURE IN NARROW CLARE VICTORY Gowran Girls featured prominently in Kilkenny’s narrow one point victory (1-8 to 0-10) against Clare in Ennis in Round Two of the National Camogie League on Saturday A ernoon. Ti any Fitzgerald who is making the step up from the Intermediate Team last year, started her Second Senior Match at Full-Back having made her Senior debut three weeks ago against Limerick, while her sister Ste i also started as she scored an important point that drew Kilkenny level near the end of the match. Ciara O’Kee e who was also part of the Intermediate Team last year was also part of the Kilkenny Squad last Saturday a ernoon, and she made her Senior Inter-County debut while coming on as a substitute in the opening round victory against Limerick.Kilkenny’s next League match will be away to Cork, their conquerors in last year’s All-Ireland Semi-Final. FITZGERALD SISTERS NAMED ON ALL-STAR TEAM The Fitzgerald Sisters Ti any and Ste i have been very busy lately, and they were rewarded for their performances with their respective 3rd Level Colleges by being named on the 3rd Level Camogie All-Stars 2022. Both were named in the two wing-forward positions, with Ti any part of the NUIG Team that lost the Purcell Cup Final, while Ste i played a prominent role as DCU strolled to their very first Ashbourne Cup Camogie title. U-13 FOOTBALLERS PUT FIVE PAST DANESFORT The U-13 Young Irelands Footballers had a great win in Danesfort as they won 5-3 to 1-1 last Sunday morning. It was there Second game of the competition having lost out to John Lockes of Callan the previous Sunday. Very best wishes to the Minor Footballers who play St. Martins in the County Minor Roinn A Semi-Final next Sunday morning in Gowran at 10.30am. CAREY FEATURES IN LANDSLIDE LAOIS VICTORY Mikey Carey played another game for the Kilkenny Seniors as he started at corner-back in their landslide 2-28 to 0-17 win against Laois on Sunday. Kilkenny now turn their attention to their next game on Saturday evening away to Dublin in Parnell Park at 5pm. It’s a repeat clash of last year’s Leinster Final in which Mikey scored a point from play. CRUELTY FOR IT CARLOW There was cruel devastation for IT Carlow, as they lost out to subsequent winners University of Limerick in the Fitzgibbon Cup Semi-Final a er Extra-Time with the last puck of the game.DJ Carey was manager of the IT Carlow Team, while Jason Brennan was part of the playing squad. The Limerick College won the Fitzgibbon Cup Final in a dramatic finish against NUIG. 2022 DRAWS The Draws for the 2022 Senior, Intermediate and Junior Leagues were made last weekend with the Young Irelands Intermediates drawn in the same group as St. Martins, Conahy Shamrocks, Carrickshock, Rower-Inistioge, Dunnamaggin, and Thomastown. The Young Irelands Junior 1sts Team will compete in Group B of the JJ Kavanagh & Sons Junior A Hurling League, and they have been drawn with O’Loughlin Gaels, Carrickshock, Mullinavat and Thomastown, while in the Championship they have been drawn at home to Thomastown. Meanwhile, the Junior B Team will compete in the JJ Kavanagh & Sons Junior F Hurling League, and they have been drawn with Tullaroan, Blacks & Whites, Conahy Shamrocks, St. Lachtains and Rower-Inistioge, while in the Championship they have been drawn at home to Mooncoin. The League Sections will commence around Easter (Mid-April), with the Championships scheduled to get underway in Mid-July. The League Sections of the Senior, Intermediate competitions will more than likely start in August, with Pre-Season competitions taking place prior to that.

CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results February 24th. Nos: 26–5– 20– 31.Jackpot: €8,050– not won. Draw Prizes – €50: Joan knox c/o Herself. €25 each P and J Cody c/o P and J Cody €25 each Kay Fitzpatrick c/o Anne.Kerwick. €25 each Laura Quinn c/o Billy Walsh Co Op draw ticket Ada Grace Hackett c/o Tommy Hackett. Promotors prize Gina Gaule New weeks draw €8,200 4th of March 2022 SENIOR FIXTURES Rd 1 31/07/22 - v Bennetsbridge. .Rd 2 07/8/22 - v Glenmore. Rd 3 14/08/22 - v O Loughlin Gaels. Rd 4 28/08/22 - v Graigue Ballycallan. Rd 5 04/09/22 - v James Stephens U21 HURLING FINAL Dicksboro defeated Shamrocks Ballyhale on Saturday in John Locke Park. Final Score 1-24 to 2-14. This was great result which has come on the back of u17 and u19 success in 2021. Well done to all the players (41 players in total) and Manager Michael Walsh who managed the three teams to success in the one season. MINOR FOOTBALL Our Minor footballers had a great start to the season with a good win over O Loughlin Gaels. PALMERSTOWN CLUBHOUSE REOPENS Dicksboro Clubhouse Bar has reopened Thursday from 8.30pm and every Thursday going forward. Thursday nights is Lotto Draw and Cards Night. All are welcome out for a social drink, a chat and if there is interest, a beginners cards table. We are o ering a particular welcome to all of our senior citizens members, it’s been a di icult past two years and we would be delighted to see you out to the club for a chat. We have a selection of non-alcoholic beers, barista co ee and all the usuals. We look forward to seeing you all CLUB REGISTER 2022 We are delighted to announce that Registration for Dicksboro GAA and Camogie Club for 2022 is now open. There are a number of ways for existing and new members to register with the club. Click on the link below (For existing members enter your e mail address to retrieve all details from last year’s registration process ). Go to the membership page on Clubs App and sign up, https://dicksborogaa.com/membership_signup

Dicksboro - Under 21 County Champions

Mark Nolan receives the trophy from Junior Board Secretary Pat Dunphy

ROADWORKS CLLR Michael McCarthy informs us that the poles are now in place to accommodate the erection of the three Driver Feedback signs, which will take place in the coming weeks. These should lead to increased safety for Kilmanagh Village, its road users and residents. These are a welcome addition to the existing road safety measures. Great credit is due to the Area Engineer and his sta . MICHAEL LYNCH The death has occurred of Michael Lynch, Ballycallan and California. Sympathy is expressed to his brothers, sisters and other relatives. Mass and burial of ashes will take place in Ballycallan church on Saturday next at 11.00 o’clock. JIM CODY Jim Cody, Kilkenny, whose death has occurred recently, along with the late Pat Shortis, regularly entertained active retirement clubs including our own P.A.L. club. Sympathy is extended to his family and friends. MOUNT CARMEL DRAW Results of the February Mount Carmel draw are as follows: 1st Prize: Martin Gleeson c/o Promoter; 2nd Prize: Eddie Kennedy, Crossoge, Callan; Other prize winners include Carmel & Eddie Ryan, Monassa, Callan; Breda Somers, Blacksta ; Ann Walsh, Abhainn Ri, Callan; Liam Sanders, Knockbutton; Droichead FRC, Callan; Joe Kearney & Nancy Power, Callan; Michelle O’Rourke, Killeshin; Sarah Power, Maxtown; Claire Fogarty c/o Sally Brett and Marie Gorey, Burnchurch. Promoters’ prizes went to Tom Maher, Margaret Ryan and Frank McKenna. TABLE QUIZ The Annual Mary McGrath table quiz in aid of O icial St. Brigid’s camogie club is back in The Pound on Friday March 18th, which this year is a new bank holiday. Looking forward to seeing everybody there, it’s been a while. KILKENNY VOLUNTEER CENTRE Kilkenny Volunteer Centre is a support service which aims to match anyone interested in Volunteering with local not for profit organisations who engage Volunteers. Our Volunteering Development O icer is available to discuss all things volunteering with anyone interested in finding out more. We also o er support, guidance, an opportunity to network, training and a Garda Vetting service for our registered organisations. We are delighted to now be able to o er appointments to anyone wishing to avail of our services. Please contact us on info@volunteerkilkenny.ie or call 089 258 49 46 to make an appointment to discuss your needs. KILMANAGH NOTES Anyone wishing to submit news items, events, announcements etc. can do so by email only to elanigan18@gmail.com. If you have any photos that you would like included, please send as an attachment. CALLAN GOLF CLUB LADIES NEWS RESULTS February 8th. 12 Hole Competition. 1st Mary Manning 23pts. 2nd Ena Kennedy 22 pts. 3rd Rita O’Neill 22pts. February 15th. 1st Brid Brett 25pts 2nd Rita O’Neill 22pts. 9 Hole Competition. 1st Rose Brophy. 2nd Claire Hendriques With Eunice and Franklin taking ownership of the course last week the only hole open was the 19th. On Thursday 17th the senior ladies held their A.G.M.. There was a very positive vibe for the year ahead where Mary Croke has taken over as Seniors Captain from Ann O’Shea. The feeling of being back as a group indoors and enjoying the refreshments and chat was warmly welcomed by all. The Spring League having not taken place the last two years due to the virus is back and proving to be very popular. Format a two person team event mixing high and low handicaps . All details and pairings can be found on the notice board in the ladies locker room. Date for Diary: Saturday March 12th, Captains Drive In. Captain John Ryan/Lady Captain Anne Croke. Junior Boys Captain Charlie Grace/Junior Girls Captain Anna O’Brien,will show us all how its done! Hoping for good weather and great support