Community & GAA Notes

LOTTO

Lotto Results 21st March. Numbers drawn 1, 3, and 27. No Jackpot winner.

€30 each to Jack O Kee e, Eileen Fitzpatrick, Patsy Whearty, Marjore Moore, Rachel Comerford. Thanks to all for your support.

CATS PURRING

Kilkenny Minor hurlers began their championship campaign with an emphatic 3-17 to 1-12 win over Laois in Portlaoise on Saturday. David Barcoe played the entire match at corner back in a game where Kilkenny limited their opponents to just two points from play over the 65 or so minutes. This happened in spite of Kilkenny playing with just 14 men for the entire second half, a er flying wing back Sean Bergin rather harshly received his marching orders before hal ime. Davy has another year eligible for the minor grade so it’s a fine achievement to start on this year’s team.

CAMOGIE

Well done to Aisling Curtis who was on the Kilkenny Senior camogie team that beat Tipperary 0-14 to 0-13 in the final round of the League in Piltown on Saturday. This was a much needed result for Kilkenny and it eliminated any possible threat of relegation, as well as giving them a bit of impetus in the buildup to the championship.

LORETO WIN

Congratulations to Lucy Boyd and Pia Langton who were on the Loreto, Kilkenny Junior camogie squad that won the All Ireland last week. They came out on top against St. Pats. Maghera on a 4-10 to 0-9 scoreline. The Loreto had already won the senior All Ireland and we’re completing a notable double here.

LOTTO

There was no winner of this week’s club lotto (March 21th). Numbers drawn were 8, 10, 13, 24 Bonus 7. Next week’s big prize will be €17,600. Play now at www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto

1 Ollie O Driscoll c/o Dan O Driscoll. 2 Sheila Foley c/o Ml Nolan. 3 Mary Deegan. 4 Ken Clancy c/o Neill Loy. 5 Tasha & Robbie c/o Paddy Greene. 6 Mary Tierney c/o Ml Nolan. 7 Jane Dineen c/o Hugh Mahon. 8 Rebecca Power c/o Online. 9 Michael Holohan c/o Online. 10 Deirdre Breen c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support

HANDBALL NEWS

It was a very busy and successful few days for O’Loughlins handball club. Five more county titles landed this week in St. John’s Parish. Ollie Morrissey and Robbie Geoghegan won the U11s in front of a packed house in O’Loughlins last night. Shane Comerford ventured down south to Glenmore and beat all in front of him in the U13 singles. Cian Byrne travelled north to Lisdowney in the U15s and came through a field of 26 to take the gold medal. And CJ McChamchue won the U17s on Thursday night a er a brilliant performance to beat Lisdowney in the final. Also a big well done to Cillian Skehan, Conor Geoghan, Conor McCormack, Andrew Holahan, Jack Stapleton, Dan Comerford and Sam McKenna who all performed admirably in their championships. Huge work going on in the club at the moment, well done to all involved. A big thanks to coaches Paddy Delaney, Eoin Brannigan and Frank Manogue all coordinated by John Morrissey.

PLAYER NEWS:

Well done to all club players involved with Kilkenny teams at present. Some great performances are yielding great results for the Black and Amber continuing to make our club proud.

EASTER EGG HUNT.

O’Loughlin Gaels GAA and Camogie Clubs will hold an Easter Egg hunt on Easter Saturday, April 8th. Keep that date free for your Diary. Full details on the clubs social media in the coming days.

CONFIRMATIONS

Congratulations to all those from St. Johns Senior School and from Johnswell NS who were confirmed on Saturday at St. John’s Church.

THE LATE NOREEN FRAZER RIP

Local people were shocked and saddened to hear last week of the passing of Noreen Frazer (nee Wilson) late of Woodview, Freshford. Although she had been in hospital her death was unexpected and caused widespread sorrow and regret. She spent many years in England before returning back to Freshford in the 80s. She was a lovely friendly and good living lady who took pride in keeping herself and her home so neat and prestige. She loved her style and her walks and was kind and caring to friend and neighbours. She will be sadly missed by all. Her funeral mass took place on Friday morning last in St.Lachtains Church Freshford and burial took place in St.Lachtains cemetery a erwards. She is mourned by her son, daughter, grandchildren, great grandchildren, brother, sisters, her dear friend Betty and the girls and her extended family to whom deepest sympathy is extended.

FAMILY AFFAIR

Well done to Walsh family from Sart who took part in a Squash competition in Carlow at the weekend. Noel Walsh and his two young sons Jamie and Ethan all competed. This is the first time a family have all taken part together and the first time the competition has been held in Carlow for a number of years. Noel came out winner in his section while Ethan met his older brother Jamie in the final with the younger brother coming out victorious. Well done to all on their sporting achievements

BALLYLARKIN CHURCH

The first event of Feile Lachtains 2023 will take place on this Saturday at Ballylarkin Church when the “Bishops Tree” will be replanted. Local tradition states that seven Bishops were hanged at this spot during the Cromwellian invasion. Ossory Historian Canon Carrigan suggest the event occurred during the Viking era. The tree fell during the 1950s and local resident Mick Burke remembers that event though firewood was scarce in the area at the time not a twig or a branch was taken from the tree which eventually rotted away.

All are welcome to attend at Ballylarkin Church on Saturday evening at 5pm for this special event

CHEF AWARD

Congratulations to Marc Leahy of the Square, Freshford who was awarded a bronze medal at the National Chef Apprentice Skills Competition at CATEX, Irelands largest foodservice and hospitality event held in the RDS. Marc who is son of Paul and Oonagh Leahy of The Corner Shop, Freshford and is an apprentice commiss chef training with KCETB. He scooped the prize having just completed his first year of the programme. Well done Marc and keep it up .

DARTS

The first semi-final of the B league of the Freshford and District League took place on Friday night last in Farrells Bar when Kavanaghs took on Killeens. Kavanaghs went into a 4-2 lead but Killeens pulled it back to 4-4 and it went to the final game and the last two players in were 1-1 and so it all went down to the final leg which saw Kavanaghs come out winners by the narrowest of margins with some great darts on the night by both sides. Farrell’s A beat rivals The Valley Inn A in the A League final recently on a 5-2 scoreline. The C final saw Killeens C claim the League when they defeated Farrells C .

The second B semi finals takes place this week with Farrells taking on the Rock Bar B in Killeens.

CAMOGIE

St.Lachtain’s Camogie club were represented on the Kilkenny U16 team that beat Dublin at the weekend with Abby Whitty picked at corner forward. Sinead Farrell was sub keeper on the Kilkenny Intermediate side that were defeated by Cork.

The local club will be represented at county level in the 2023 season. Saoirse Hickey and Mia Phelan will be representing the club at U14 level while Emma O’Connor, Ciara Hickey and Aoibheann McCarthy will be on the U15 panel and Katelyn O’Connor, Abigail Whitty and Michelle Killeen will be on the U16 panel. Meanwhile Sinead Farrell is part of the Kilkenny Intermediate panel.

FITNESS SESSIONS

Fitness sessions boxing/fitness sessions at Community Hall Freshford – Have you had a diagnoses of Parkinsons; Alzheimers or other neurological condition? If so maybe you are keen to get some level of fitness back or work on you balance or upper body strength. If so, these classes are just what you need. Classes take place each Tuesday from 11am to 12 noon - sessions cost just €10 each and are facilitated by a boxing coach. They will also give you the chance to socialise and meet other people. For more information or to sign up please contact Brenda Cooper on 0871369253

GAA

St.Lachtains were represented on Sunday last in Nowlan Park when they defeated Cork in the semi final of the league. Local player Darren Brennan was sub goalkeeper.

EASTER CAMP

St. Lachains GAA Club will once again host an Easter camp this yea.

The camp will run from Monday 10th April to Thursday 13th from 10am to 2pm at GAA Grounds. The camp will be for all boys and girls from 6 -13 years old and great fun is guaranteed with Top quality coaches. Fee is €50 per child or first 2 children per family and €40 for third child and upwards. Places can be booked online .

PARISH NEWS

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

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 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 on that number or on

087 25235 21

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 on 087 284342 If you can’t cope and need support text HELLO to 50808.

SAMARITAN - Whatever you’re going through a Samaritan will face it with you – available 24 hours a day 365 days a year – Freephone 1161Alone is available for older people who need support and you can call them on 0818 222024 (8am to 8pm)

AMBER KILKENNY WOMENS REFUGE – is available for confidential support relating to domestic violence - call them on 1850 424244 (24/7) or on 056 7771404 or email into@amberwomensrefuge.ie.

PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK

The Apostolate of Eucharistic Adoration Pilgrimage to Knock will take place on Sunday 23rd April. Coach leaves from Woodies Carpark, Kilkenny at 7.00 a.m. Cost: €25.00. Please contact 086 166 6547 for details.

TRAD THANKS

The organisers of the trad night held in The Pound on the 16th of March would like to thank all who supported the event. It was a great success. A word of thanks to the McGrath family for the use of their premises. Thanks to those who sponsored prizes and to the ticket sellers for all their help. To our MC, to Comhaltas, to singers and musicians who made the night so enjoyable, a big ‘Thank you.’ The amount raised was €1,675.

EASTER RAFFLE River Rangers AFC are holding an Easter Ra le with some fantastic prizes on o er. Ra le lines are now available from every player, parent, club committee, club members, Ryan’s Bar, The Pound and Mary O’Connor’s Shop. We will be holding the ra le in Ryan’s Bar Kilmanagh on Saturday 8th of April. Please keep it available for another great night of entertainment.

LOTTO RESULTS

RESULTS 13TH MARCH. Numbers drawn were 16: 18: 23: 26. There was no winner. Lucky Dip winners were Cillian Hoyne, Declan Walsh and Ruby Millea. Sellers’ prizes went to James O’Connor and Michael Murphy.

RESULTS 20TH MARCH. Numbers drawn were 2; 3; 13; 26. There was no winner. Lucky Dip winners were Patrick Hayes, Danny Butler, Dooley Kids. Sellers’ prizes went to John Robinson and Jerry Ryan.

YOGA AND PILATES

Yoga and Pilates classes with Roisin will take place in Naomh

Aodhán Community Centre, Kilmanagh commencing a er Easter. Monday 6:30pm to 7:30pm – Pilates. Tuesday 6:30pm – 7:45pm –Yoga and Relaxation. Thursday 9:30am – 10:45am – Yoga and Relaxation. Thursday 11.00am – 12.00pm – Chair Yoga.

Cost of 5 week Yoga Block €45, 5 week Pilates Block €50, Combo of Pilates and Yoga Block discounted price of €80. Booking for any or all of these classes is essential on 085 272 6047.

TABLE QUIZ

The Annual Mary McGrath Table Quiz will take place in the Pound Ballycallan on Holy Thursday night 6th April in aid of St Brigid’s Camogie Club commencing at 9pm. Tables of four €20. A great night of fun and laughter. So get your thinking caps on. Refreshments and finger food served on the night.

GOING TO THE DOGS

St. Brigid’s Camogie Club are going to the dogs on Friday 2nd June at 7:30pm at Kilkenny Greyhound Track, James’ Park, Freshford Road, Kilkenny. Come join us on the night, €10 entry which includes race card. Children welcome also but need to be accompanied by an adult. A fun night out for all the family, looking forward to seeing you all there.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

The following volunteers are required:

Callan Tidy Towns: The Tidy Towns Committee is very active in the community, striving to keep the town tidy and attractive to visitors and residents. They would love to hear from anyone living in the Callan area who would like to get involved.

The Good Shepard Centre - Easter Ra le Volunteers : The Good Shepherd Centre works with homeless men, women, families and those at risk of becoming homeless in Kilkenny and o er emergency accommodation, transitional housing and resettlement services with the aim of returning people to sustained independent living. They are raising much needed funds this easter and need some volunteers in McDonagh Junction selling ra le tickets.

Amber Womens’ Refuge - Go Purple Day Volunteers : Go Purple Day 2023 is a national day for raising awareness and funds for local Domestic Abuse services. On Friday 28th April 2023 Market Cross Shopping Centre will Go Purple in aid of Amber Womens Refuge. Volunteers are needed on the day for 2-hour shi s to collect money. Kilkenny County Childcare Committee - Board Member : Kilkenny County Childcare Committee (KKCCC) are looking to recruit new directors to the board of management.

The CCC is a Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration & Youth (DCEDIY) funded support for families and early learning and care and school age childcare providers in relation to childcare matters at local county level. The board meet 6 times per year and are responsible for the oversight of HR, governance, and finance matters within the organisation. Volunteers with experience in these areas would be most welcome to apply.

Alone - Befrienders Needed: Make a di erence to someone’s life by visiting an older person living alone who may be experiencing isolation & loneliness and bring them friendship and company for an hour each week. Alone need befrienders in all locations in Co. Kilkenny.

Girl Guides in Graiguenamanagh - Leaders Needed : Irish Girl Guides are looking for Volunteer Leaders in Graiguenamanagh, Co. Kilkenny to help with the running of the programme. Volunteers are needed weekly to assist during activities. Full training is provided.

Darkness into Light - Darkness into Light is an annual walking event and fundraiser held in support of Pieta House. Each year, participants meet before dawn and walk or run for 5 km to meet the sunrise. They need some committee volunteers to help organise the event in Kilkenny this year. For more information contact info@ volunteerkilkenny.ie or Paula on 089 258 49 46 or register online on www.volunteerkilkenny.ie.

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.

EMERALDS GAA CLUB

Mega Bingo: Every Sunday, 4pm at Urlingford GAA pitch. Gates open at 3pm. Single books and one sheet €10; Double books and two sheets €15. Extra jackpot sheet €3 or two for €5. Please support.

EMERALDS URLINGFORD AND GRAINE LOTTO March 29th prize fund was: €12,100. Jackpot: €10,100. Numbers drawn: 4, 14, 20, 30, bonus no 9. No winner and one match 3 winner: Jimmy D’arcy. Five lucky dips of €20 each: John and Joan Norton, Mary O’Leary, Nicholas Healy, Conor Curran, Bertie Tobin. Promoters prize: Mgt Peters.

COFFEE TO A TEA MINI MARKET DAY

There will be a Mini Market Day held at Co ee to a Tea (Main Street, Urlingford E41 X5D0) on Saturday, April 1st from 10am to 3pm. There will be a number of local stall holders displaying their o erings including: jewellery, flowers, baked goods, handmade cra s and clothes. Grab some lunch, treats and a co ee at Co ee to a Tea while you browse. We would love for everyone to come out and support. See you there. Cathríona and Mairead - from Co ee to a Tea.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE

LTI Pathway to Employment course QQI Level 4: LTI is recruiting for the new programme in the Centre commencing shortly. If anyone is interested in completing this full-time course, please contact us for an expression of interest form. More details can be found on our website www.millfrcurlingford.com

Defibrillator: Please note that there is a defibrillator located in the Mill Family Resource Centre if and when it may be required.

Senior Alert: If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue or Josephine.

Counselling Services: Our low cost Counselling Services, includes one-to-one, family and teens, aged 12+.

General Counselling: Bereavement, stress, anxiety and depression. Other counselling services available: Drug, substance and gambling addictions.

Play therapy is now also available.

Please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment.

Appeal for Clothes Donations: Any further clothes donations would be greatly appreciated in aid of our counselling services. Donations can be le into the Centre, please call before dropping o . Contact number for the Centre 056 883846.

Co ee Morning: We are having a Co ee Morning here at the Centre on Wednesday April 5 from 11am. Easter ra le will be held also. All are welcome.

SET DANCING

Due to refurbishments in Urlingford Community Hall, Set Dancing will take place in Graine Hall for the foreseeable future, every Tuesday at 8.30pm. Dancing to live music with Danny Webster. Sets called by Paddy Martin. Come along for a great night of dancing!

URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT

This week’s winner of Split the Pot is Margaret Webster (The Commons) who will receive €504. Congrats Margaret. Tickets €2 on sale in participating businesses in town with proceeds this week going to Urlingford/Johnstown Irish Dancing Club, thanks to everyone for their support.

SUPERVISED STUDY

In Graine Hall every Saturday from 9am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm. Cost: €5 half day, €8 full day. For enquiries, please contact Siobhan 087 2601490.

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.

CHURCH NEWS

Envelopes for Lenten o erings are due now. Trocaire envelopes should be returned between now and Holy Thursday. Church services for Easter are Holy Thursday, Crosspatrick 7pm, Graine 8.30pm. Good Friday, Urlingford 3pm, Johnstown 3pm, Galmoy 7.30pm, Stations of the Cross Johnstown 7.30pm, Holy Saturday, Urlingford 6.30pm, Johnstown 8pm, Easter Sunday. Crosspatrick 9am, Galmoy 10.15am and Graine 11.30 am.

A Holy Hour of prayer, reflection and music in St. Kieran’s Church on Sunday April 2nd at 3pm with prayers for healing.

MRS JOSIE TOBIN (nee Beehan) RIP

The death has taken place of Mrs Josie Tobin peacefully at her daughter Margaret’s residence. Predeceased by her parents Thomas and Margaret, she will be sadly missed by her heartbroken husband Jimmy, family Mary, Siobhan, James and Margaret, sons in law Brian, Seoirse and Stephen, daughter in law Julia, grandchildren Joanne, Allannah, Farrah, Ross, Cori, Beibhinn, Fionan, Ollie, Mark and Eoin, sisters Anne and Mary, extended family and friends. Requiem Mass was celebrated in St. Kieran’s Church with burial a erwards in St. Kieran’s Cemetery. May she rest in peace.

HERITAGE GROUP

The Heritage group will shortly be erecting a stone monument honouring all the hurlers and camogie players who brought such credit to the Johnstown/Crosspatrick area since hurling was mentioned as being played at Ballyspellan Spa in 1742. The group are aware that many people would wish to make a contribution to the project and would be very grateful for any support, including from people living away from the parish. To facilitate this a circular with envelopes will be delivered to each house in the parish and committee members will call at a later date to collect the envelopes if you wish to contribute. A model of the monument is in Tynan’s window (Molly Burkes)

JOHNSTOWN NUTRITIONAL CLUB

Johnstown Nutritional Club are holding a free nutritional menopausal workshop on Friday March 31st at 8pm in St. Kieran’s Hall. Caroline will host the topic, a topic in which nutrition plays a big part.

FENIANS HC

Well done to two club members Rory Garrett and Jerry Henderson who lined out with the Kilkenny Minor team who defeated Laoise at the weekend.

SPA UNITED AFC.

Weekend results Junior Division 3 River Rangers 1 Spa 1, U14 girls League Division 1 Spa 3 Lions 1, U12 girls League Division 1 Spa

1Highview Athletic 1, U12 girls League Division 2 Spa 1 Highview Athletic 1, U13 boys League Division 2 Paulstown 4 Spa 2. The U9 boys travelled to Thomastown and showed o their skills .

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO

Winning numbers 12,14,23,29 two match threes Sean Whyte and Tom Kirwan.

CHURCH NOTES

Eucharistic Adoration will continue on Wednesdays in Glengoole church from 10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. and on Thursdays in Gortnahoe Church from 11.00 a.m. to 1.00 p,m. All are welcome to come and spend even 5 or 10 minutes in quiet prayer in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament.

APRIL FAMILY MASS

April family mass will take place this Sunday the 2nd of April at 10.30am in Gortnahoe Church. The theme of the family mass is Beginning Our Easter Journey. This is also Palm Sunday. All families are welcome.

EASTER CEREMONIES

Mass times for the Easter period are as follows: Spy Wednesday Mass in the Cathedral at 7.00pm, Holy Thursday Glengoole 7.00pm, Good Friday Gortnahoe 3.00pm, Easter Vigil Glengoole Saturday 7.30pm and Easter Sunday Gortnahoe 10.30am.

TROCAIRE BOXES

Boxes are available at the back of both churches. Please support Trocaire because it is only when we work together that we can build a truly just world.

CASHEL AND EMLY DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES

The annual pilgrimage will take place from the 17th - 22nd June 2023, anyone interested in the Parish please contact the Parish council for further information.

TUESDAY BRIDGE

Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information please contact this number 089 4349106

MINI MARKET DAY

There will be a mini market day at Co ee to a Tea (Main Street, Urlingford, E41 X5D0) on this Saturday the 1st of April from 10am-3pm. There will be a number of local stall holders displaying their o erings including jewellery, flowers, baked goods, handmade cra s and clothes. Treat yourself to a co ee at the Co ee to a Tea stall while you browse. Your support would be very much appreciated.

GORTHNAHOE BINGO

Bingo continues this Saturday night at 7.00pm with doors opening from 6.00pm and will continue each saturday night at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on o er, including a special €500 game. We look forward to the many visitors and family members home with their family, it will be a great nights entertainment for all.

SPLIT THE POT

Congratulations to Richie Corbett from Gortnahoe who was the winner of €286 in the Split the Pot draw. Envelopes are available at the usual outlets. Split the Pot for the month of April will be in support of the Gortnahoe Senior Citizens. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated

EASTER BINGO

A special Easter bingo will take place in Gortnahoe Hall on the 8th of April at 3pm, doors open at 2pm. Over €3,460 in prize money , includes a €500 special game & €800 Easter special game plus numerous Easter eggs on every game. Please note the date for your diary.

CLUB LOTTO

Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results 23rd March. Nos:12 13 19 20.

Jackpot: €8300 Not Won

Draw Prizes – €50: Ber Shanahan c/o Paddy Maher. €25 each Ber

O’Leary c/o Rita Long

€25 each Jack Brennan c/o Tommy Hackett. €25 each Ber Long c/o

P & J Cody

Hurlers Co Op Dick Curtin c/o Tom Beirne. Promotors prize Paddy

Maher

Thank you for your continued support.

CLUB REGISTRATION

Members can now renew their membership directly through ClubZap for the 2023 season and instalment options are available. The club asks that all members renew their membership as soon as possible and in particular before teams return to training or games over the coming weeks.

EASTER CAMP

Registration now Open for our Easter Camp. Skills and drills and lots of fun. For ages 5-12. €30 1 Child. Discounts for Multiple Children from same family. 10am to 1pm. 3rd, 4th & 5th of April. See ClubZap to secure your booking.

KILKENNY GAA

Congratulations to both Kilkenny Minors and Kilkenny Seniors over the weekend and our club Hurlers representing Kilkenny GAA. Best of luck to Kilkenny Seniors in the League Final the weekend of the

8th April.

KILKENNY CAMOGIE

A bumper weekend for Kilkenny Camogie and well done to our boro ladies representing Kilkenny at u16, Minor, Intermediate and Senior Levels.

CLUB GAMES

We welcome back the bright evenings and all our underage games please see ClubZap for tr

CHOIR NOTICE

The choir will sing in Bennettsbridge for Easter this year. Easter Saturday Night and Easter Sunday morning. There will be a choir practice on Tuesday night a er Mass. It would be nice to have a good few in attendance and members of the Tullaherin are welcome to join us, Mollie will play on the two occasions.

CONGRATULATIONS everyone involved and should help the Gowran pitch secure further matches in future.

Congratulations to Jack Forristal and his SETU Carlow teammates on winning the Electric Ireland Fresher division 2 hurling all Ireland final against Ulster University in Abbotstown, Dublin on 23rd March.

Irelands Monday Night Gaa Coaching

YOUNG

The Young Irelands Monday Night GAA Coaching is scheduled to commence next Monday Night 3rd April, as it will make a welcome return following its Winter hiatus. It will be perfectly timed as it’s The first day of The Easter Holidays. For further information, check out The following link www.facebook.com/gowrangaa Via The Young Irelands Facebook Page.

CAMOGIE

There is lots of camogie action over the next week with the under-14, under-16, minor and senior teams taking to the field. The under-14 girls already have one match under their belt, having played Lisdowney last Sunday, but were unfortunately defeated.The under-16 girls will face Graignamanagh on Saturday next at 12.00 in Jenkinstown. The senior girls will also get their season underway with a trip to Tullaroan on Sunday next at 11.00 a.m.

Roisín Phelan, Danielle Morrissey, Ellen Gunner and Emma Mulhall continued to represent the club on the Kilkenny intermediate team which was narrowly defeated by Cork on Saturday last. Ruth Phelan (Captain), Sofia Kerr and Katie Brennan were also in action for the Kilkenny minor team who defeated Waterford on Sunday, while Siofradh Kennedy and Mary Dowd were part of the Kilkenny Under-16 A and B squads who won their respective matches on Sunday.

The camogie club is also holding a fundraising table quiz in the GAA Clubhouse on Sunday, April 23rd at 5.00 p.m. Tables of 4 cost €20 and all support would be most welcome.

HURLING

The minor hurlers faced Dicksboro in Palmerstown on Sunday a ernoon last in the Kilkenny Motor Centre Roinn C League, and despite an excellent second performance in spite of being short a number of players, were beaten by the city side by 6-13 to 2-12. They will now face St. Lachtain’s in their next league outing on this coming Monday evening at 6.30 in Páirc Lachtain.

TEAM: Tommy Mulhall, Killian Lacey, Conor Hennessy, Tadhg Hennessy, Darragh Horgan, John Kennedy, Rory Rhatigan, Jake Dooley, Finn Sherman, Joe Boland, Andrew O’Connor, Patrick Kennedy, Billy Rowe, Daniel Mooney, Adam Morrissey, Brian Phelan, Camryn Kenehan, Neil Webster.

CLUB LOTTO

The numbers drawn in the Conahy Shamrocks GAA Club Lotto were 15, 29 and 40. There was no jackpot winner so the consolation prize winners were Ella Rossiter, Dermot Mulhall, Michael Harding, Shane and Niamh O’Loughlin and Kay Mooney. The promoters’ prize winners were Larry Bergin, Margaret Buggy and Nora Delaney.

MASS TIMES

Hugginstown. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m.

Vigil - Saturday 1st. at 8.00p.m. Sunday 2nd. at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford. Vigil - Saturday 1st. at 6.30p.m. Palm Sunday 2nd. April

2023:

Palm will be blessed at the beginning of all Masses next week-end 1st. and 2nd. April.

Timetable for Holy Week Masses and Ceremonies. Hugginstown Church:Holy Thursday 6th. April at 8.00p.m. Good Friday 7th. April at 3.00p.m. Holy Saturday 8th. April at 8.00p.m. Easter Sunday 9th. April at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford Church: Holy Thursday 6th. April at 7.00p.m. Good Friday 7th. April at 7.00p.m. Holy Saturday 8th. April 6.30p.m. Pray For.Catherine Barron, Catstown. Maura Brennan, Lawcus, Stoneyford.

GOWRAN AC

Great performances by Gowran AC athletes at National Indoors. The U12 boys relay team ran really well in a hugely competitive timed event to place 9th overall. Well done Sean, Ross, Matthew.and Daniel and coach Marie Deegan. In the U18 Boys Shot Putt, Andrew Cooper threw 16.65m to win the event. Incredible performance!

EIMEAR KEEPS CLEAN SHEET AS LORETO EASE TO ALL-IRELAND

Congratulations to Young Irelands Eimear Brennan who was goalkeeper on The Loreto Kilkenny Team that won the Junior Colleges All-Ireland Final against St. Pat’s Maghera in Blanchardstown last week.

Loreto Kilkenny won 4-10 to 0-9 as Eimear had the added bonus of a clean sheet and playing against a very strong wind in unseasonal conditions, The Kilkenny School were ahead 2-5 to 0-5 at the interval having led 2-1 to 0-4 midway through the first-half.

Loreto Kilkenny were completing The Senior/Junior All-Ireland double against The Ulster School having won The Senior Final in February also against St. Pats Maghera.

CIAN PART OF MINOR PANEL WIN

Young Irelands Minor Hurler Cian Phelan was part of The Kilkenny Minor Panel that eased to a 3-17 to 1-12 win away to Laois in the opening round of The Leinster Minor Championship last Saturday.

Kilkenny will now play Antrim in their Second game of The Leinster Championship in Abbotstown this Saturday at 2pm.

MICHAEL PERFORMS SUPERBLY TO FINISH SECOND IN SCOR

STAITSE

Congratulations to Michael Holland who performed superbly to finish 2nd in The Scor Staitse in Nowlan Park last week.

BUFFET AND BOOGIE NIGHT

The Bu et and Boogie Night for Young Irelands Camogie Club will take place this coming Friday Night (31st March) in Gowran Park from 7.30pm.

FENCING

Huge work has been done in Young Irelands Grounds throughout the Winter Months ahead of the start of the new season, and the fencing situation has now been solved. Trojan work has been done in particular by The Young Irelands Field Committee, with The Fencing situation dealt with to prevent spectators entering the playing field. Also, plenty of Businesses and Individuals have generously contributed to sponsorship around the pitch, with their Business and name now on display The Fencing area.The Fencing is a huge credit to

Anniversary Mass next weekend. Agnes Kenny, Stoneyford; Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 1st. April at 6.30p.m

ROTA

Rota for next week-end. 1st. and 2nd. April 2023 . (Palm Sunday) Readers. Stoneyford. Saturday 6.30p.m.Tony Roche. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Catherine Dwyer. Sunday 10.00a.m. Mary Foran. Eucharistic Ministers. Stoneyford. Saturday 6.30p.m. Pat Kenny. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Mary Cuddihy, Sunday 10.00a.m. Ann Power.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PREPARATION

We complete our Family Masses this weekend. Many thanks to the Pupils and to the Parents and Families for taking part during Lent. Special thanks to the parents who organized the rota for Readers, Prayers and O ertory Gi s. First Holy Communion will not take place until May, so it is important for pupils and families to attend weekend Mass.

OSSARY PILGRIMAGE

Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes 2023. Lourdes Pilgrimage will take place from May 23rd. to 28th. this year. Accommodation in the Agena, Solitude and Padoue Hotels. Price includes return bus journey to/from Loughboy Shopping Centre Car Park to Dublin Airport. Return flights from Dublin to Lourdes; Transfer to/from Airport to Hotel; Full board and hotel accommodation for the 5 nights. For further information and bookings contact niamh@ jwttravel.ie or Phone 01 685 2244

EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS

New Eucharistic Ministers needed in both Hugginstown and Stoneyford Churches for weekend Masses. Preparation Training can be done on-line in your own home with just a meeting in the local church for practical help. Please let me know if you can help. It is also recommended that Present Eucharistic Ministers be involved in this training.

OSSARY ADULT FAITH DEVELOPMENT

Ossory Adult Faith Development – Lenten Programme: What does Pope Francis intend by calling us to be a Synodal Church?

We are hearing the words Synodal Church being used today. We know that Pope Francis has asked us to be a Synodal Church, but what does that mean? A Synodal Church is the Church of our time. Please join Bishop Niall Coll on Monday, 27th. March 2023, at 7.30p.m. in St Kieran’s College, as he leads in a Reflection on what this means for each one of us as members of the Catholic Church today. Bishop Niall extends an invitation to all. ..

Has Catholic Education a Future in a Modern Ireland? Join key people from the Irish Education World for a frank discussion on the future of Catholic Education in St. Kieran’s College on Tuesday 28th. March at 7.30p.m

LENTEN STATION

Many thanks to all who have contributed to the Lenten Stations in recent weeks. Your contribution is for the support of the priests of the Parish and the Diocese.

LOTTO

Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 20th.

March 2023 Numbers: 23; 30; 17; 10. One Winner First 3 Numbers

Drawn. No Jackpot Winner: €500.00. Winner. Caitlin Roche, Lawcus, Stoneyford. €25.00. Seller of Ticket. Caitlin Roche, Lawcus. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers) Pat Power, Deirdre Rohan, Jimmy Sheehan.

STONEYFORD SCHOOL

Meeting of the Board of Management will be held in the school on Wednesday 29th. March at 8.00p.m.

STONEYFORD ACTIVE RETIREMENT

Stoneyford Active Retirement Group is planning a 5 day/4 night holiday to Dundalk from 11th. September 2023. Bus to/from Stoneyford; Tours every day; Nice relaxing Itinerary. For further information visit www.stoneyford.ie

COMPUTER COURSE

Course will start in April in Gairdín an Ghorta, Newmarket. Laptops and Smartphones

If interested please contact Willie Barron 086 839 4349 or Stephen Cassin 085 726 3393.

Kilquan Drama Group, Coon are delighted to announce that donations from their play Anyone Could Rob a Bank 2023 have been made to the following: Friends of the District Hospital, Castlecomer, St. Martins - Coon Field Committee (fundraiser for Astro-Turf), SOS Castlecomer, Brow Rangers Athletic Club, Knockbeg Secondary School, North Kilkenny Wheelchair Association, Coon Community Club, Coon National School Parents Council, Leighlinbridge New Autism Spectrum Disorder Unit, Muckalee Ladies Football for Mothers and Others. Thanks to all who supported and helped out in any way.

Thanks to Una who sent in this photograph which was enhanced to colour by Pat Comerford. The photograph shows the scholars and sta 1966. Una also included this story

It was Ballyline one room school house 1966, with two out houses on either side of the school, one for the boys and one for the girls. I remember my father, Paddy Larkin [RIP] from the shop in Ballycloven, taking the tractor and the trailer and picking many of the school children up when it flooded between the two bridges. He was probably a hero to the parents but not so popular with the kids Do you have any photographs and/or stories ? Send them to me at jack@kilkennyobserver.ie for publishing in our upcoming notes section.

Ballyline School 1966