Local Notes

Showing below local notes from the Saturday September 4th, 2010 issue of The Southern Star.

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Skibbereen

SKIBBEREEN and District Historical Society’s next field trip will take place in and around Baltimore. They will depart Casey’s hotel at 6pm on Wednesday next, September 8th. Their guide will be Gerald O’Flynn. His plan is to walk and talk them through parts of Baltimore about which they may not know a great deal. The walk will commence at Tullagh Cemetery and thence to The Beacon and places in between. The walk should take about one and a half hours and will cover about two miles. This promises to be a most enjoyable and informative ramble and all are welcome.
DISCOVER ARTS
Are you unemployed and looking for ideas? Discover Arts is an innovative four-week course, delivered by artists and offered only to unemployed people with no previous art experience. The course will deliver some basic art skills in printmaking and painting, ways of thinking creatively, generating ideas and inspiring the imagination. Participants will be encouraged to collect ideas in a journal and follow them through to create an artwork. The course will also offer a social opportunity and a space to share and discuss creative ideas. Invitations to a film screening and an art exhibition opening are included. Discover Arts, on Fridays, will be delivered by visual artists John Simpson at West Cork Arts Centre, Skibbereen, and Julia Pallone at Adult Learning Centre, Clonakilty, and is supported by West Cork Development Partnership. Applicants do not need previous experience of art and need to be unemployed and in receipt of Social Welfare payment for a minimum of six months. There is a single fee of €10 at enrolment. The course takes place from October 1st to 22nd on Fridays, from 2 to 4pm at West Cork Arts Centre, North Street, Skibbereen, and on Fridays from 11am to 1pm at Adult Learning Centre, Casement Park, Clonakilty. For more information, or an application form, contact West Cork Arts Centre, North Street, Skibbereen, tel: 028-22090, or e-mail: Justine@westcorkartscentre.com
UNDER-AGE GAA
On Tuesday evening last the U12 hurlers took on Barryroe in the championship. Played in perfect conditions in Rossmore, Kevin S O’Donovan opened the scoring for Skibb with a free before Barryroe struck for a goal. Dylan Hourihane replied with a goal and Shane O’Driscoll added another before half time to leave Skibb ahead by 2-1 to 1-2. Skibb were first to score in the second half with a free, Eoghan O’Connell followed with another from play. Barryroe found the net with 13 minutes left and then tacked on a point to draw level. With seven minutes left, Barryroe scored two goals as Skibb appeared to fade. Kevin S O’Donovan got a late pointed free and a long-range shot made it all the way to the net to leave just two points between the sides at the end of a very exciting contest. Credit to Alan Foley and Gene O’Donovan, who did great work with a good bunch of players who included Rory Byrne, Sean Fitzgerald, Killian Lane, Kevin C O’Donovan, Shane O’Driscoll, Kevin S O’Donovan, Eoghan O’Connell, Dylan Hourihane, Kevin Hurley, Paul Minihane, Sean Walsh, Oscar Egan, Dan Crowley, Dylan O’Donovan, Ross Fitzgerald, Daniel O’Donovan, Charlie Deasy, Niall O’Regan, Ronan Herlihy, Donal Hurley, Eoin Leahy and Mark Deasy.
BASKETBALL
Skibbereen Eagles’ new basketball season is now getting under way and the following training times have been arranged: U12 girls, Tuesday 5 to 6pm; U12 boys, Wednesday 5 to 6pm; U14 girls, Saturday 10 to 11am; U14 and 16 boys, Wednesday 4 to 5pm; U16 and 18 girls Monday 4 to 6pm. All training sessions will commence on the week of September 6th in Skibbereen Sports Centre. New members are always welcome. The club thanked all who helped with and supported its recent fundraising flag day.
SOCCER LOTTO
The numbers drawn last weekend, in the Skibbereen Soccer Club lotto for a jackpot of €1,250 were 13, 34 and 35. No entry matched all three numbers drawn and the winners of the two consolation prizes were Jo Dwyer, c/o Fields, Skibbereen (seller: Pat Collins) and Dietrich Ledluski, 54, Mariner’s Cove, Baltimore (seller: Brian McCarthy). On Saturday, September 4th, the draw will be held in Kearney’s Well, North Street, for a jackpot of €1,500 and tickets are on sale in the usual places.
BALTIMORE SOCCER
The Baltimore and Aultagh game ended as a draw Sunday morning. It was a game that Baltimore deserved all three points from – yet the Crabs were lucky to get away with a draw in the end. Baltimore dominated both halves, but an early second half goal from an Aultagh free kick forced Baltimore to go on the attack and after Shane Holland won a free kick in 90th minute, R O’Donovan sent it in for M Murphy to knock home his second goal of the season, Baltimore have no game this Sunday due to the league having an odd number of teams.
TIDY TOWNS
Baltimore Tidy Towns had a most successful coffee-morning at the Sailing Club on August 10, raising a grand total of €1,745. The committee would like to convey a very sincere thank you to the Sailing Club and to all of the helpers, supporters, business sponsors and donors and to congratulate the winners of the photographic competition. First prize in the under-13 section went to Declan Coffey; second was Luke Carthy and Sally Boylan was highly commended. The over-13 and adult section winner was Serena Weldon; Breffny Pye came second and Phyllis O’Sullivan was highly-commended. Thanks went to everyone who took part.
ATHLETIC CLUB
The West Cork cross-country championships will take place Sunday, September 12th, in the show grounds at Dunmanway. There will be U20, senior and master men’s and women’s races, which are also open to non-West Cork athletes. Training is on Monday and Wednesday nights, as usual at 7pm, on the track at the Baltimore Road, Skibbereen.
FUSE THANKS
Fuse, Skibbereen Youth Cafe committee, volunteers, staff and teenagers have extended their thanks to all those who gave so generously to their annual flag day last Friday, August 27th. The amount of €1,172.48 was collected. Thanks also went to everyone who so kindly gave their time for collecting on the day. This ongoing generosity to the youth cafe from the community is greatly appreciated.
UNION HALL
The judges had a very difficult job picking the winners from the karaoke finalists on Saturday, August 21st last. The winners were Jessica Rixon, Elaine Whelton and Mark Wearon. Thanks went to all their family and friends who supported them. The Irish Knights will play in the Community Hall on Friday, September 3rd, from 9.30pm. They hail from Galway and have a reputation as a great dance band. The up-and-coming band Hell for Leather will play on the street towards the end of September to celebrate the end of a wonderful summer – watch this space for a confirmation of the date. On Monday, September 6th, there will be a public meeting in the Community Hall to decide whether the club bar licence should be renewed for 2011. A ballot vote will be taken and as many people as possible are urged to attend.
TODDLER GROUP
The Aughaville Parent and Toddler Group will resume on Tuesday, September 7th. This year, there is a change of venue and the group will no longer meet in the Aughaville Hall, but in the Caheragh Hall instead, from 11am to 1pm. Everyone with babies and pre-school age children are welcome to attend. For further information, contact Eleanor on 086-8400987.
CYCLE APPEAL
Anyone with outstanding sponsorship money from the recent West Cork Emergency Services Cycle is asked to hand it into Roycroft Cycles, Skibbereen, or contact Garry Minihane 086-8328394, as the committe would like to fix a date to hand over the proceeds of the cycle to the various beneficiaries.
MEN’S GOLF
Skibbereen men’s golf results for Thursday, August 26th: lady president’s prize to men, 1st Alan Byrne (8) 43 pts; 2nd Brian Hamilton (12) 41 pts; 3th Pat Calnan Jnr (13) 41 pts; front nine: Tim Collins 23 pts; back nine: John Collins 23 pts.
LADIES’ GOLF
The lady president’s prize was played for on Sunday last under perfect conditions and many good scores were recorded. The eventual winner was Helen Quirke with 69 net. The lady president Mrs Ann Bailey celebrated her day with her husband Harry, children and grandchildren and a large crowd turned out for the evening presentation, where Ann gave a delightful speech which everyone appreciated. Full results: 1st Helen Quirke (19) 68 net; 2nd Siobhan O’Donovan (27) 69 net; 3rd Carmel O’Driscoll (23) 69 net; 4th Bernie O’Regan (19) 70 net; 5th June Ring (29) 72 net; past president – Kay O’Sullivan (26) 72 net; best 33 to 36 Handicap – Doreen Moloney (34) 73 net; front nine – Marion Pattenden (26) 33 net, back nine – Anne Price (22) 33 net. Other results – Hilda Hegarty and Kay Roycroft prize: Category A – Hilda Hegarty Prize, 1st Betty Chapple (16) 37 pts; Category B – Kay Roycroft’s Prize 1st Eithne Barry (34) 37 pts; 2nd Kay O’Sulllivan (26) 35 pts; 3rd Carmel O’Driscoll (23) 35 pts; 4th Mary Dineen (20) 34 pts. Blue Shop prize: 1st Catherine Moloney (25) 39 pts; 2nd Catriona Buckley (32) 38 pts; 3rd Eithne Barry (34) 37 pts; 4th Catriona Moloney (16) 36 pts; 5th Phil Conway (28) 35 pts.
SENIORS’ GOLF
Michael O’Sullivan sponsored Tuesday’s three ball-better ball competition. As the entry was not divisible by three, Joe Connolly drew the short straw and had to play in two teams – one as a member, the other as the ‘mystery man’; concentrating on your game should be enough without worrying about the vagaries of another coupling. “Tiger” Smyth regained his magic touch this week; no “eagles” for Dan McCarthy’s partners, as non-playing captain he guided Tim Meehan, Bob Whooley and Stan Rispin, 39 points, to a famous victory. Pat Connolly, Peter Costelloe and Sid Scott, 38 points, came second, in third place were Tim Seymour, Barry Egan and Gene Callanan, 37 points. Next Tuesday, there is an outing to Castlemartyr; anyone wanting information should contact Stan Rispin on 028-20349. There will also be the normal weekly competition at Skibbereen for those not able to travel; draw as usual 9.30am.

Macroom

Macroom will be the venue this weekend for the third annual Bikers Marymount Run and the town will be invaded this Saturday by hundreds of bikes and their powerful machines. The bikers are assembling in the Dunnes Stores car park in Ballyvolane in Cork on Saturday at 11am and the convoy of bike’s will depart from Cork at 12 noon with an anticipated arrival time in the Mid Cork capital of 1pm. Complimentary tea and coffee will be provided in Penns Bar in the square on arrival and there will be live entertainment provided in the town in the various hostelries: Penns Bar will feature The Taxman; TP Colters, 3 Piece Suite, Ui Cronins, Linda Cullen; Mary Annes, Billy Singleton; The Bridge Inn, Sea Captain, The Gearagh Mishap; Castle Hotel, traditional music Ahdat Dineens. There will be food stalls in the town square and kids entertainment in the Castle grounds. A bike display, which is sure to be a big attraction, will be held also in the Castle grounds and a free camp site for bikers is being provided. It is known that overnight accommodation in Macroom is at a premium this weekend due to the heavy influx of bikers and there should be a festival atmosphere in the town with such a large group coming. Bikers are traditionally a colourful group who exude an air of freedom and non conventionalism, though many of course are quite conventional in their weekday occupations and lifestyles! The purpose of the bike run is of course to raise money for Marymount Hospice in Cork and many people in Macroom, and indeed all over the South of Ireland, are very aware and appreciative of the great work being done by Marymount and its dedicated staff.
Adult Education
The Autumn term at McEgan College Macroom will see many interesting courses on offer for those who wish to pursue further education. A computer course and ECDL course are on offer and this year a special computer courses for farmers. Advanced course in supervision in childcare for those wishing to pursue a career in childcare management as a special needs assistant course will be on offer. For those with artistic tendencies there will be courses in art, flower arranging, digital photography, organic gardening and guitar available. Practical courses in sewing, dressmaking, image and style, cooking for beginners, baking and woodturning are also on offer. Enrolment night is next week on Thursday, September 9th from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Mc Egan College. Full details on all courses and fees are available in the college brochure which can be picked up at the college or at Macroom library in the Briery Gap.
Macroom scouts
Macroom Venturers’ Robbie Lillis and Simon Henleywillis, took on the challenge of a lifetime in August when they participated in Challenge Cymru 2010, an expedition located in Wales and Ireland. The teams of two persons met up at Dublin Ferry Port and were dropped off in different parts of North West Wales. Challenge was designed to help young people develop a real understanding of the environment in which they live, by travelling through a country, in this case Wales, working as a small team to complete a series of projects, and most importantly, by meeting local people. The basic elements of the Venture Scout Challenge Expedition are: five to six days of travelling, covering a minimum of 100k of countryside through towns and villages, keeping a log of the journey and experiences, completing a number of prescribed projects, completing a number of personal learning objectives and living on a limited budget. Great excitement ensued when the Macroom team of Robbie Lillis and Simon Henleywillis were awarded the certificate, badge and challenge woggle as they successfully satisfied all the requirements of the challenge and in addition completed all the prescribed and personal challenges. Macroom scouting are very proud of Simon and Robbie’s achievements.
Stage school launch
Macroom Stage School held its official launch on Saturday last in the Briery Gap Theatre. The open day attracted a huge crowd of parents and children and they all received a flavour of what the stage school, the first of its kind in Macroom, is all about. There were numerous workshops during the open day for the children and the parents met with artistic director Angela Murray for answers and questions. The school will operate every Saturday from September 11th onwards and there will be enrolments up to that day for those who wish to join a class in the performing arts, dance, drama and singing. The director stressed that confidence building and encouraging creativity is also the aim of the school with fun being an important part of all activities. The school will run from 10am to 12.30pm for students aged 5-12 years and from 1-3.30am for teenagers aged 13-18years. There will be a large scale production in the second term where students will be able to put their acquired skills and talent on public display. Angela Murray can be contacted on 086-0693630.
Film society
Sulan Film Society winter season of film will commence at the Briery Gap cinema on Monday, September 20th next. The 2010 French romantic comedy Heartbreaker is the opening night film. The admission charge is £6.50 per night and the season will run fortnightly until the Spring.
Briery Gap
The Briery Gap theatre has a strong line up of quality performances for the coming months. Brendan Shine, Do you want your old hubby washed down will be on stage on Friday, September 10th at 8pm for (tickets £20) and a week later Carrigadrohid tidy towns present National Gas (tickets £15). On Saturday, September 25th Mick Flannery will be on stage and the following night 26th the Cha and Miah show should have the audience rolling in the aisles. The Randon Theatre Company returns to Macroom on Saturday, October 2nd with Brian Friels Lovers and Losers and JC Lynch’s Marrying Mary and on Friday, October 8th. Frank McNamara and family will be performing as part of their Irish tour. Foster and Allen will appear on Sunday, October 10th, Paddy O’Brien on Wednesday, October 13th, Sandy Kelly in a Patsy Cline concert on Sunday, October 17th and Rebecca Storm on Friday, October 22nd.
LOTTO NEWS
The jackpot in the Macroom GAA weekly lotto keeps rising, as the punters failed to come up with the winning three numbers again this week. The jackpot for next Tuesday’s draw at the Castle Hotel will stand at §6,600. In the Macroom Soccer Club lotto the jackpot was not won either and now rises to §3,800. The winners of the main consolation prizes were Irene O’Shea in the GAA lotto and Martina Foley in the soccer club draw.
MID CORK GAA
There has been plenty of championship action in Mid Cork in recent weeks and the football and hurling championship semi-finalists are all known and also two finalists. In football Clondrohid defeated Kilmichael but then lost to Ballincollig in the semi-final. On the other side of the draw, Iveleary surprised Dripsey last weekend and now play Blarney, the champions, in the second semi-final at Coachford on this Sunday evening, 6.30 throw-in. In hurling, Cloughduv had a three-point win over Inniscarra and are through to the final. Grenagh and Ballincollig meet in the second semi-final on this Saturday at Ballyanley; throw-in at 4pm. The football finals will be played on Sunday week, September 12th, at a venue to be announced.
INTERMEDIATE FOOTBALL
Macroom had a comfortable 2-10 to 1-5 win over Fermoy in the quarter-final of the County Intermediate Football Championship last week at Pairc Ui Rinn. It was Macroom’s first championship game since mid May and it was not a vintage performance by the winners, at least they are now through to the county semi-final and a meeting with Castletownbere. The Macroom defense was excellent with Rory Buckley in fine form at full back and his two flankers, Peter Lynch and Barry O’Donnell very sharp. Fintan Goold was outstanding at centre back and at midfield, and Michael Cahill made a sound return after a year out through injury. Ciarán Murphy was having a fine game on the other wing before receiving a red card on half time, which will rule him out of the semi-final. Macroom had many problems up front despite conjuring up two excellent goals, and the overall team display would not be enough to win the semi-final. The task before all involved now is to work for the improvement necessary over the coming month. Macroom play their third last County League division 3 game at home to Glanmire on Sunday next at 12 noon in Macroom. Macroom are still in with a chance of making the final but cannot afford any further dropped points, as there are four teams contesting for two final places.
HURLING CHAMPION
Macroom U16 hurlers won a hurling trophy for the club on Monday evening last, defeating Dripsey in the Mid Cork U16 D Championship final at Rusheen. The final score was 6-10 to 3-4 and this is the first underage hurling win for Macroom since the days of Brs Stanislaus in the late 1960s early 1970s era. Team trainer was Mikey O’Briend and the team was John Murphy, Cathal O’Mahony, Robert Downey, Shane Creedon, Eoin Walsh, Michael Cronin, David Horgan, Darren McKenna, Emmett Quinlan (captain), Adam Gray, Dylan O’Brien. Subs: Sean Burke, Brendan O’Sullivan, David Crowley, Tim Kelleher, Trevor Costin-Healy (all used) and Olan O’Mahony, Deckie Keily and Jason Leah.
UNDERAGE FOOTBALL
Macroom U16 footballers played a thrilling draw with Millstreet in the Msukerry Duhallow League final back in early May. The replay will take place next Tuesday evening at a venue to be announced. Macroom U15s and Macroom U13 footballers are preparing for their upcoming league championship campaigns. The U13s played Cill na Martra in a practice game on Tuesday evening at Tom Creedon Park and recorded a good win.
SOCCER
Macroom had six team in action last weekend; two in the AUL and four schoolboy teams. In the Mossy Linnane Cup, group D, Macroom A, were beated 4–1 at home on Sunday morning by Leeds and are out of contention for a semi-final spot in this competition. Macroom B were in action on Saturday afternoon and had a comfortable 4–0 win over Waterloo at the Town Park, giving them their second win out of three games in the division 2A league. Macroom B are now only a point behind the league leaders Cresent, with no team on full points after the opening three games – an indication of how competitive the league will be. In Saturday’s tie the teams were scoreless at half time but Macroom took the lead in the 52nd minute when Brendan O’Mahony converted a penalty kick. Andrew Hegarty made in 2–0 in the 69th minute and also scored the third seven minutes later, both goals set up by Patrick Burns. Burns himself scored the fourth goal, eight minutes from the finish. The team was: Peter Burns, David Murnane, John Ronan, Stephen Crowley, Darragh Crowley, Darren Burns, Brendan O’Mahony, Barry Fitzgerald, Denis Cronin, Patrick Burns, John Corkery. Subs: Andrew Hegarty, Alan O’Connor, Stephen Murphy. On Tuesday evening Macroom A lost 4–0 to Kilumney in the Linnane Cup. Fixtures: Macroom A v Wilton Utd, Linnane Cup at Murrays Field, Sunday 10.45am. Macroom B v Innishvilla at Innishannon in the Saxone Cup first round, Sunday at 10.45am.

Kinsale

SUNDAY September 12th will be a very special day in Kinsale, with a Family Open Day at the new Saile sports facility. While golfers and sailors are spoiled for choice of facilities in Kinsale, there has been a great lack of dedicated training and sporting facilities, a problem that was recognized by local solicitor Virgil Horgan. While others were content to lament the situation, he was determined to remedy the situation and gathered a number of like-minded residents under the banner of Saile. The results are now to be seen at Cappagh, where an all-weather pitch facility with four 5-a side pitches, with the capacity to be combined into one large one, is now available. There are ten recessed goals in the facility to accommodate all booking options and it is fully floodlit. The synthetic surface is IATS certified and FIFA 2-star approved. It has properties similar to that found in natural grass pitches, is non-abrasive, so that players do not suffer from carpet-burns, giving the perfect mix of practicality and performance. There is also a basketball court and a tennis court available for casual hire. A large kick-about grass area will be ready early next year, that can also be used for training. It is ideal for sports and social clubs, summer camps, schools, and sports clubs of all types. For pricing information, please contact Saile on 021 4773929 or email info@sailesportsandleisure.ie. Members of the public are also invited to join Team Saile and jog, walk, run, or skip in the Evening Echo Mini-Marathon on Sunday September 26th to help raise much-needed funds to complete Saile Kinsale Community Sports and Leisure Project. For a fundraising pack, please contact Saile on the above number.
HARVEST PARTY
Following on the successful harvest day on Sunday last, there will be another open day in Ringrone this Sunday. The Kinsale Greengrowers will be hosting a ‘harvest party’ from 1pm, the culmination of a series of open days and garden tours for members all spring/summer. This is now seen as going a step further by sharing food and good cheer in the same place where everyone’s food is grown. Spokesperson Aimi Pindar hopes that these kind of events strengthen people's connection to where their food is coming from as well as creating a community feeling. They will also be having a competition for the children, ‘best dressed vegetable’ and getting the members involved in helping biodiversity in the garden by building an ‘insect hotel’ to create homes for beneficial insects that help keep pests in check in the garden.
SCHOOL RETIREMENT
As the schools reopen this week, the biggest change is undoubtedly at the Community School, with the retirement of the most popular member of staff, caretaker Terry Santry. Two heartfelt tributes from staff members say it all. ‘Terry Santry greatly enriched our lives when he joined the staff of Kinsale Vocational School in September 1980’, said Mary Lynch. ‘He endeared himself to one and all with his good humour, his great jokes, his honesty and sincerity. No task was too great for Terry. Staff and students admired and cared about him. One and all were appreciative of Terry and the wonderful gifts he brought with him. In 1996 Terry proved change may be a wonderful challenge to expand one’s horizons when the vocational and convent schools amalgamated to form Kinsale Community School, which has grown and flourished in the past fourteen years. Terry rose to the challenge of change admirably and continued to impress both familiar and new colleagues with his constant good humour and wonderful work ethic. He bonded brilliantly with the students, who, on a regular basis, chatted with him during their school breaks. We wish Terry, his wife Mary and his family many years of happiness and the best of health. We hope he enjoys to the full his well-earned retirement and that he will spare a thought for those of us who will miss his presence so very much. We also hope that he will enjoy his boating and fishing pursuits. Terry, go néiri an bóthar leat, and may all your dreams come true.’ Her colleague, Dan Forde, is equally enthusiastic. ‘After thirty years looking after the grounds, buildings, staff and students, Terry Santry is retiring. Terry started as a caretaker in the vocational school on the Bandon Road in 1980. Prior to this he worked in the fishing and building industries. A caretaker in a school must have a lot of different talents, of which Terry has in abundance, with general maintenance, gardening, and interacting with students and staff. Terry always got great respect from the students and made friendships with them that lasted long after they left school. During his time in the vocational school the garden was always colourful with flowers and roses, and the grass perfectly trimmed. ‘Keep off the grass!’ was a familiar cry during lunch and break times. Then came the move to the new community school and everything was on a much larger scale but Terry proved himself equal to the task. A caretaker’s job is a very difficult one as they must have an in-depth knowledge of all the school requires to run efficiently, from minor matters to very important tasks, to keep the school operating from day to day. Terry’s quick wit and pleasant manner will be missed by students and teachers alike. We wish him and Mary many years of sailing, fishing, fine mornings and pleasant sunsets.’
DRAMA TIME
Kinsale actors, musicians and artists are invited to visit the Lifetime lab on the Lee Road in Cork this Sunday from 1pm to 7pm, when Yvonne Coughlan’s Red Sandstone Varied Productions will hold open auditions. These are in preparation for a Culture Night on September 24th, entitled River of Imagination, and a Halloween play on October 30th and 31st. Bookings taken on 085 1798695, calls only/no text. Headshots and CV may be emailed in advance. Email rsvpireland@gmail.com or see www.rsvpireland.webs.com.
SWIMMERS BEWARE
The Irish Coast Guard has urged swimmers to be on the look-out for the Lion's Mane jellyfish, the most venomous of the indigenous Irish species. A number of the jellyfish, which are known for their nasty sting, were spotted on Sunday in the Garretstown Bay area near the Old Head. The jellyfish came in with the sea current and it is expected that they will remain in the area, as fine weather is forecast for the rest of the week.
RNLI SWIM
The organisers of a charity swim in aid of the RNLI on September 4th (12pm) between The Speckled Door and Sandycove are looking for help. One of the safety ribs and two of the kayakers have had to pull out of safety cover for the event, so they are looking for anybody who would like to volunteer rib or kayak cover for next Saturday afternoon. The number of swimmers is likely to be twenty to twenty-five and all have been vetted and have completed a minimum of a 3k swim in open water this year. The swim is due to start around twelve and is likely to last about two hours. Anyone available to help should call 086 2308318.

TRANSITION TOWNS
Depending on demand, the Community Powerdown Course will next be run in the areas of Bandon, Kinsale and Cork city on Mondays and/or Tuesdays. These ten week sessions will begin at the end of September or early October. The overall aim is to deliver the course to as many groups and communities through West Cork as can be reached. The course facilitators are Sustain West Cork founder members Caz Jeffreys and Matt Mills, and Klaus Harvey from Transition Town Kinsale. You can book a place or find out more by contacting Klaus at 087 6763516 or klausharvey@gmail.com, Caz at 028 25978 or cazjeffreys@gmail.com.
KINSALE SEMINAR
The noted emotional technique practicioner, Robert G Smith, returns to Ireland this weekend with a two-day seminar at the Trident Hotel. Ken and Rosita Kingston are the local representatives and they are just back from a five week training session in Seattle and say that it was a very special experience! They can be contacted at 087 2671897/023 8849943 and further information is available at www.fasterstressrelease.com.
WALKERS WANTED
Walking has become very popular in and around Kinsale in recent years, with a number of groups doing regular weekly walks, so there should be lots of interest in the first Cork Walking Month this September. The month will see organised walking events spread throughout the county. The theme for the month is ‘A Walk for All’ and with over 40 organised events, the month will not disappoint. Speaking at the launch of the Cork Walking Month, Michael Crowley, coordinator of the Sports Partnership, said he was ‘delighted’ to be able to offer such an exciting calendar of events for the month. ‘We have walks to suit everyone, ranging from Oldcourt Wood in Rochestown to the Healy Pass and Sheep’s Head Way in West Cork. We would encourage everyone to try and avail of this opportunity, even if it’s just for one of our shorter mid-week walks.’ Indoor climbing classes for all are being delivered by the Mardyke Arena and Mountaineering Ireland through introductory classes at the state of the art climbing wall facility at the Mardyke Arena. Also on the calendar of events is the Health Promotion Department HSE South’s ‘Introduction to Trails Walking Workshop’. It’s designed specifically for the Cork Walking Month, with a particular emphasis on targeting beginners interested in getting involved in trail walking. A treasure trail based on scouts activities will take place on Saturday 18th, which will incorporate a family fun treasure trail. This has been coordinated by Kilbrittain’s 102nd scouts. ‘This is a great way for the scouts to give people the opportunity to participate in and learn a little about scouts through organised fun events’, said Nuala Dinneen of Kilbrittain Scouts. ‘We’re meeting in Kilbrittain Hall at 11am on Saturday September 18th and the day’s events will ensure a fun day for all’. Anyone interested in any of the Cork Walking Month events or anyone who would like a brochure should contact Maurice in the Sports Partnership on 021 4665081 or email mosullivan@corksports.ie. Alternatively, see www.corksports.ie and follow Cork Walking Month 2010.

Dunmanway

THE Sam Maguire Festival weekend is a celebration and tribute to the man whom the All-Ireland football cup is named after. It involves events for both young and old and this year’s programme is as follows: On Friday September 10th at 6.30pm, Pipe Band playing in Town Square. At 7pm Parade of County Colours, Flags and Jerseys, from St Patrick’s Hall, involving children from all schools of the parish. 7.30pm opening ceremony at Sam Maguire Plaza by Niall Cahalane, former Cork and Castlehaven football player, followed by parade to the GAA Pavilion. At 8pm there’s fun and games for children in the GAA pitch. At 9.30pm, a traditional night of music and song by Dunmanway CCE in GAA Pavilion – everyone welcome, admission free. On Saturday September 11th at 10.30am, an underage GAA blitz for boys and girls. At 11am, coffee morning in GAA Pavilion. 8pm mass in St Patrick’s Church with choir and traditional music. At 9pm, the usual Saturday night dance, with Finbarr Dennehy. On Sunday September 12th, 11am service in St Mary’s Church followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at Sam Maguire’s grave. 12.30pm Vintage Car Run through the town. 2pm old-time threshing at Sam Maguire Homestead in Mallabraca – enjoy music, song and dance, with refreshments also provided (proceeds in aid of CoAction). At 6pm a barbecue at the GAA pitch, with music by The Screaming Celts. At 9.30pm, live music by John Spillane at GAA Pavilion (admission €10, with tickets available at the door on the night).
CARDIAC SUPPORT
The monthly meeting of the Clonakilty Cardiac Support Group will resume after the summer break. The meeting will take place at the Emmett Hotel, Clonakilty, on Wednesday September 8th at 8.30pm. The meeting will focus on information about cholesterol and will organise a walk for World Heart Day in line with the Irish Heart Foundation Day. The meeting is open to and welcomes people who have had a cardiac event such as angina, a heart attack, had angioplasty with or without stents inserted, or who have had cardiac surgery (by-pass surgery, mitral valve surgery, etc). It is an opportunity to share experiences, fear and anxieties in a confidential setting. It is also is a source of contact for people waiting for heart surgery. For information, please contact Catherine Cahalane, Cardiovascular Public Health Nurse, HSE, on 086 7871552.
DRINAGH RANGERS
The O33s took on Clonakilty Town in the cup final last Saturday but had to be content with the runners-up position. Drinagh scored deep into the first half with a wonderful Michael Doolan goal but Clonakilty drew level with a penalty within minutes to leave the sides 1–1 at half time. This was a very equally matched game with both sides challenging the keepers and both teams coming close to scoring on several occasions. Clonakilty scored late into the second half and Drinagh produced some great team work but could not get the equaliser. This O33s team provided some great entertaining games this season and it is hoped to see them all out in force again next season. In the Premier Division Drinagh lost 3–2 to Ballydehob, while the Drinagh B team drew 1–1 against Durrus in division 2. The ladies got their league campaign off to a great start with a 3–2 win over Knockavilla.
FORESTRY FOUNDATION
The Irish Natural Forestry Foundation will hold its next open day on Sunday September 5th with the following events being held: family activity (pond dip – life under water) – meet at the Education Centre at 11.30am. Guided walk (managing invasive plant species in woodland: INFF’s experience at Manch) – meet at the Education Centre at 2pm. Workshop (hedgerow establishment and seed collection workshop with Pete Barnard) – ongoing from 12 noon to 4pm. No dogs allowed. For further information please go to inff.ie, call 023 8822823 or email enquiries@inff.ie.
FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE
Parent and Toddler Group will be back at the Family Resource Centre on Tuesday September 7th from 10.30 to 12.30. The group meets every week and is open to any parent/guardian and their preschool children; new members are always welcome.
TRAINING FORUM
A public information day will be held on Monday September 6th, from 11am to 7pm, in Dunmanway Community Council Offices, Main Street. Dunmanway agencies, organisations and services will be present to meet with members of the public. Come along and find out what training and support opportunities are available to you. Watch video clips of local people telling their own stories of training and support which they received. Light refreshments will be provided. Training opportunities and job seeking support includes information from the following: Dunmanway Adult Basic Education Service, Maria Immaculata Community College, FÁS, West Cork Development Partnership, West Cork Enterprise Board, National Learning Network, Employability Service West Cork, West Cork Career Guidance and VEC, Dunmanway Enterprise Network, The Hollies and UCC/CIT. Information on the following support services will be available at West Cork Counselling and Support Service Office, Main Street, Dunmanway (next to La Vie Café), Dunmanway Family Resource Centre, West Cork Citizens Information Service, Money Advice and Budgeting Service and Community Welfare Services. The Dunmanway Training and Development Forum is made up of organisations who are represented on the Interagency Group. For more information you can contact any of the following: Tracey Holt, co-ordinator, Dunmanway Family Resource Centre (023) 8856818; Anna Moynihan, job coach, Employability Service 086 8101795; Dorothy Beamish, co-ordinator, Return to Education Centre 086 8239149.
COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
The Matron and staff of Dunmanway Community Hospital extended thanks to the Ardcahan Sports Club for the wonderful food hamper they recently donated to the hospital. It is enlightening to see a club work together to support the older people in their community. Special thanks went to Mr Pat Lordan, a founding club member, for his enthusiasm in making this happen.
CITIZENS INFORMATION
From September 1st, West Cork Citizens Information Service will hold its weekly information, advice and advocacy service at Ross House, Main Street, Dunmanway (next to La Vie Café). The service will be available on Wednesdays from 10am until 1pm. The service was formerly located at the Family Resource Centre. The Citizens Information Service provides a free and confidential service. No appointment is necessary. There is a full-time service based in Bantry each day from Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm. The helpline number is 027 52100.
CLAY TARGET CLUB
Dunmanway Clay Target Club results for Sunday August 29th are as follows – (25 Bird Sporting) Senior: 1, Ian Fish, 2, Thomas Murray, and 3, Eugene O’Sullivan. Novice: 1, Tom Nyhan, 2, John Halifax, and 3, Donie O’Shea. Next shoot on Sunday September 12th. New members always welcome, contact Mike on 086 8777859 or Thomas on 086 8540852.
ATHA CAOIRE CCE
The junior and senior members of Áthá Caoire branch of CCE had a successful weekend at the All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in Cavan on August 21st last. The U18 team of Denise Kingston, Tara Murray, Jemma Shorten, Collette Fraser, Helen Crowley, Ivor Sweetnam, David Collins, Brendan Crowley, Aidan Williamson and Padraig Crowley were placed second in the mixed eight-hand ceilí dance. The senior team of Tommy Crowley, Tadgh Cronin, Joe Mannix, Mark Bryan, Shirley Kingston, Maura Crowley, Lorraine Coughlan and Rosemary Flynn gained a third in the mixed eight-hand ceilí dance and the senior team of Tadgh Cronin, Joe Mannix, Lorraine Coughlan and Rosemary Flynn gained a third in the four-hand ceilí dance.
RECENT DEATHS
The death took place recently at her home, Acres, Dunmanway, of Ann Wilson (nee O’Sullivan), wife of the late Jack and mother of Donal, Margaret and John. She is sadly missed by her family, son-in-law Geoffrey, daughters-in-law Maura and Kathleen, grandchildren, sister, sister-in-law, nephews, nieces, grandnephews, grandnieces, relatives and friends. Following funeral mass at St Patrick’s Church, burial took place in St Joseph’s Cemetery.

Courtmacsherry

Courtmacsherry rowing club are celebrating the end of a very successful season which saw an increase in both adult and underage participation, with a total of 12 crews competing each week in the highly competitive West Cork rowing circuit. All teams represented the club admirably with a number of impressive results recorded at regattas in West Cork and also at the County and All-Ireland championships. After a strong showing in Castletownshend, seven crews won qualification for the county final held in Cuskinny. Here, the senior men and senior mixed took silver medals and junior men the bronze, with the U12 boys, U12 girls, pre-vet men and senior ladies all finishing in the top four. This success continued throughout the championship season at Union Hall and Glandore. Club history was made at Baltimore regatta with a double win for the junior and senior men’s crews in what were the most tightly contested races of the season. There was further celebration after Schull regatta where the Courtmacsherry senior men’s crew of Pa Harte, Daniel Whelton, Denis Griffin and Brian Whelton, coxed by Fiona Hurley, rowed a blistering race to become the 2010 West Cork champions. The impressive and ever-improving junior men’s crew consisting of Joe O’Leary, Damien O’Leary, Tony O’Regan and Anthony O’Driscoll took championship silver with the pre-vet men and senior mixed crews claiming the bronze. Hot on the heels of this success the club travelled to Aghada for the All-Ireland Coastal Rowing Championships. With stiff competition from over 40 clubs, the Courtmacsherry crews fought hard to qualify for the finals. The U12 boys, U16 boys, senior mixed, junior men, senior ladies and senior men all earned a place in the final 12 boats. In what was again the most hotly contested and exciting races of the day, Courtmacsherry’s senior men crew scooped All-Ireland silver, much to the delight of club president Paddy Barry and the large contingent of supporters who travelled from the parish. The final regatta of this season took place in Sherkin where the underage crews showed their potential for next season. The U14 ladies and senior mixed crews came third while the U16 mixed and senior ladies clinched silver. The newly formed pre-vet mixed team struck gold as well as the men’s crew, who won in convincing fashion to bring home the O’Driscoll Perpetual Cup, adding to the silverware acquired by the club this season. The committee thanked and congratulated all club members who have worked so hard and contributed to the successes and achievements of this year. A special word of gratitude also went to the Courtmacsherry and greater Barryroe communities who have shown unwavering support for all club activities. The club’s annual church gate collection takes place this weekend.
ISLAND MASS
Leaving the artistry and the glamour of Barryroe Church behind us, we journeyed out to Heir Island on Sunday morning in the company of Fr Queally for the annual open-air mass on the island. Fr Queally has a certain attachment to this special mass since his grandparents are natives of the island. We were ferried across from Cunnamore Pier by our good friend John Harte, who lived in Courtmacsherry for over 30 years, while fishing out of the port, and he showed us the ruin of the house where Fr Queally’s grandfather Peter Cotter was born. Heir Island is attached to Aughadown Parish and concelebrating the mass were its PP Fr Donal Cahill, Fr Danny Pyburn (PP Caheragh), who is a native of the island, and Fr Peter Queally, who preached the homily. Fr Queally, who is attached to the Holy Ghost Fathers in Rockwell, does weekend duty on Cape Cleire Island. With its beautiful sandy beaches, Heir Island is a haven for tourists.
Blackberries
With the brilliant sunshine, the blackberry crop is exceptionally good this year. While many people will curse the briar for its thorns, just spare a thought for the bountiful supply of fruit which it can produce, and fruit of a high quality, as blackberry jams and jellies are top of their class in every household menu, due to the high content of iron.
Abbey Road
A massive upgrading job has been done to the Abbey Road from Ahawadda Cross to Peter’s Point. In the distant past this was an extremely popular bowling road, as there were a few bowlers in every house along the way. Some of the most famous bowlers of the time played there and, who knows, the sport may return to this popular venue again.
Fishing
Contrary to expectations, with the mackerel season at hand there seems to be an extreme scarcity of the species this year. At this time of year, the harvest mackerel would always arrive in shoals near the shore. However, the general belief is that their stocks have been cleaned out by the big Icelandic fleet, who show little respect for ‘the man with rod and line’, or those who are spillering from their small boat, like John Flynn and Thady Donovan in olden times.
The Ferry
Proof of the success of the resumption of the Cork Swansea Ferry can be gauged by the noticeable increase in the number of GB cars around the area. The fact that it has struck a fine summer for its initial run, is undoubtedly a great boost to the operation, and let’s hope that the Julia will justify its existence to boost both the tourist trade and commercial life of the region.
The Satellite
The 2010 edition of the Courtmacsherry satellite is now on the shelves of all the local newsagents. With a strong photographic inclusion of events and personalities who made the headlines during the year, this 36-page magazine has been described by many critics as the best yet. It is fronted with a beautiful photographic display and feature of Barryroe Church.
Back to School
After the long summer holidays it was back to school for all pupils during the past week. September 1st has always been a dreaded day for primary school pupils, and more so when the sun is shining brightly. However, after a few days it will be down to the books, as many will be starting off in infants and more going into their final year as sixth-formers, and preparing along the way for the jump into secondary this time next year. During the past week all the emphasis has been on the Leaving Cert results and the subsequent CAO placings. We hear of success rates from Dublin University to Tralee IT and from Galway University to Waterford IT, so let’s hope that everything will work out well for the school leavers in the end. With an increase in the number of students, points have gone up for most faculties, especially agriculture, which has taken the biggest jump – no doubt recognition of the important roles that agriculture and farming in general plays in the economy of the country.
WEATHER
The exceptional fine weather is continuing unabated and no doubt making up for the disappointment of the past three years. Tourists and holidaymakers of all kinds and nationalities are delighted with the sunny days as they cram the beaches getting the maximum number of natural swims in the beautiful sea water. Likewise every farmer is overjoyed with a harvest day to save the hay and grain and with the cattle basking in the meadows. For those of the vintage years, we go back to 1947 to experience so fine a month of August. Courtmacsherry was swarming with visitors at that time and very few had cars. Captain William Barrett of Kincraigie had an old Wolseley car tied up during the war and Ned Murphy and some of his compatriots (the young visitors at the time) bought it off him for £7, and every day during the month this open-top vehicle would make two trips to Dunworley with a full complement on board each time, and the noise from the banger would provide healthy excitement along the route.

Clonakilty

AFTER ten years in business in Clonakilty, the popular Hickey’s Music Shop at Rossa Street closed its doors for the last time on Saturday. Over the decade, Hickeys was a popular spot for local musicians to drop into for all things to do with musical instruments, tourists to buy a souvenir bodhrán or a tin whistle and for many people the place to pick up their favourite CD, tape or songbook. Most of the time, people were greeted by Tony O’Donovan, owner and manager, who regardless of the nature or value of the enquiry or transaction, was always pleasant and helpful to customers or people simply browsing. Hickey’s was also the place in Clonakilty where people could buy tickets for local concerts and other such events run in the general West Cork area, and the front door usually displayed a couple of posters of some music-related event coming up in the area. However, the last while have been challenging for many small family run businesses like Hickeys and the younger generation now download their music from the internet rather than go in to buy CDs. Coupled with this, one sees the trend of the convenience stores and supermarkets ever-expanding their range of products for customers, putting further pressure on speciality businesses whose survival depends on a small range of products. These factors, as well as the recession, all contributed to Hickey’s closing down after providing great service for over a decade. As we face into a winter with more challenges for everyone, it is hoped that people will think seriously about where they spend their money and on what. Supporting small family-run businesses and purchasing where possible local and Irish-made and produced goods can make a difference both locally and nationally, and may mean the difference between survival and closure of many businesses over the coming lean months. In the meantime, Tony O’Donovan and his staff were wished well for the future, as Clonakilty says ‘thank you’ for everything over the last decade.
CARERS’ SUPPORT
West Cork Carers’ Support Group will hold a meeting for family carers in Clonakilty Day Care Centre, Hospital Grounds, Clonakilty, this evening Thursday (2nd) from 8 to 10pm. All family carers are welcome. The group has also organised a mental health first aid course for carers in Rehab Care, Bantry, on Mondays, September 20th and 27th. This is a certified course and participants will receive a certificate upon completion of both days. The cost of the course will be €20 per person. To book your place, please call 027-53848.
MODEL VILLAGE LOTTO
Results of Model Railway Village weekly lottery draw for Thursday, August 26th: Jackpot €3,550 – no winner. Numbers drawn were 10, 14, 15 and 17. ‘Lucky dip’ winners of €50 each were Kitty and Rosie, 023-8834652; H O’Donovan, 086-1568053; Catherine Banville, 16 Park View, Clonakilty, and D O’Sullivan. Next draw is on this Thursday, September 2nd, for a jackpot of €3,700.
LISSELAN GOLF
Results for Saturday and Sunday, August 28th and 29th, Crowley McCarthy, Accountants, singles: 1st J Cullinane 39pts, 2nd R Fitton 38pts, 3rd M Buckley 38pts; Thursday, August 26th, scramble: 1st K Hurley, M Harrington, S Cody 27.1; 2nd E Hurley, P Hurley, R Coombes, D Roche 27.1; 3rd G Leahy, R Hayes, D Collins 31.1. Fixtures: Thursday and Friday, September 2nd and 3rd, mixed foursomes All-Ireland semi-final v Clontarf GC and final at Castlerock GC, Co. Derry, tee off 11.35am; club gents’ fixture, Saturday and Sunday, September 4th and 5th, Longfellow Restaurant singles. Ladies’ results: Tuesday to Sunday, August 24th to 29th, singles; 1st P Cooke 36pts, 2nd G McManus 35pts, 3rd B O’Crowley 34pts. Lisselan Golf Club and all involved with the mixed foursomes team thanked Ger Harte and the staff of the Courtyard Bar and David Condon of Spar supermarket for their generous sponsorship and the use of their facilities for making last Friday night’s fundraiser a night to remember for all and those who kindly purchased raffle tickets were also thanked
RUGBY LOTTO
Results of the Clonakilty Rugby Club weekly lotto draw for Saturday last: Jackpot €2,000. Numbers drawn were 3, 4, 9, and 27. No jackpot winner. ‘Lucky dip’ winners were Owen Hickey, Mia Cleary, Kevin O’Sullivan, Kevin O’Callaghan and Norma Harte. Next draw is this Saturday, 4th, in Scannell pub at 10pm; jackpot €2,100.
ADULT EDUCATION
Congratulations went to the students from the adult education class of 2009/2010 in Sacred Heart Secondary School. In addition to a record number of distinctions, five students have been offered places in UCC, CIT and UCG and a sizeable number of students have found employment. If you would like to upskill and improve your chances of finding employment, why not enrol for some of this year’s classes? The courses on offer include certificates in Health and Community Care, Special Needs Assisting and a new course, which is proving to be very popular, is the Certificate in Youth Work. All courses are FETAC Level 5 and are fully certified and accredited For further information please contact the school on 023-8833737 or 085-1352285.
RING O’ ROSES
Ring o Roses, Children's Music and Movement Classes commence next Wednesday 8th, Thursday 9th and Friday, September 10th, at 10am and 11am in O'Donovan's Hotel, Clonakilty. Places are limited; call Tracy Henderson on 087-6874151 to reserve your place. Ages from eight months to four years.
MUSIC SHOWS
Anyone interested in getting involved in any capacity in proposed music shows to be staged at Christmas and in March, 2011 is invited to a meeting with Eileen Murphy, BMus, at the Allegro Music Shop, Spiller's Lane, Clonakilty at 8pm next Wednesday, 8th, for a general discussion. All are welcome.
AMNESTY
The next meeting of Amnesty International is next Wednesday, September 8th, at 8pm in O’Donovan’s Hotel, Clonakilty. Further information is available at 023-8840010.
ACAPELLABELLA
Acapellabella – Clonakilty’s world music community choir will be starting back their weekly classes on Wednesday, September 8th, at 8pm in O’Donovan’s Hotel. The group members have been meeting and performing together for many years now, and the beginning of a new term is always a good time to welcome new members. All are welcome to come along and meet the group and to join in with the singing to get a feel of what they are about. Or, perhaps, you have already seen them performing some place and are secretly wishing you could join in! Well you can, and they are particularly keen to receive more male and lower voices. Each term brings more songs, and the opportunity to input into decisions around styles and activities to be incorporated into the weekly work, which is facilitated by their musical director, Caz Jeffreys. These activities sometimes include opportunities such as working with other voice facilitators, musicians, dancers, festivals and recording projects. There's much fun to be had, so come along and join in. For more information you can phone Rachel on 026 49254 or email rachellac@gmail.com or check out their myspace page at www.myspace.com /acapellabellawestcork
CARDIAC SUPPORT
Monthly meetings of the Clonakilty Cardiac Support Group will resume after the summer break. The first meeting will take place at the Emmet Hotel, Clonakilty, next Wednesday, 8th, at 8.30pm. The meeting will focus on high cholesterol and what to do about it. It is planned to organise a walk for World Heart Day in line with the Irish Heart Foundation day. The meeting is open to and welcomes people who have had a cardiac event such as angina, a heart attack, had angioplasty with or with out stents inserted, or who have had cardiac surgery (by-pass surgery, mitral valve surgery, etc). It is an opportunity to share experiences, fears and anxieties in a confidential setting. It is also is a source of contact for people waiting for heart surgery. For information, contact Catherine Cahalane, cardiovascular public health nurse, HSE, on 086-7871552.
WRITERS’ GROUP
A large gathering of writers met once again in Clonakilty Library on Thursday last under the mindful and efficient facilitation of Bob Amberson. The opening exercise, always positive literary stimulation, was to write a short piece to describe a favourite hero or villain; the latter were in the minority and the both groups were drawn, with varying degrees of imagination, from both the world of fiction and non-fiction. Presentations were then given by most members on the previous week's exercise, which provoked much debate and good-natured critique. The Writers’ Group will meet again on Thursday next, September 9th, at 11am in Clonakilty Library. The writing exercise for the next meeting, for those who wish, is 500-600 words, selected from one of these titles: ‘Visitors,’ ‘The Anniversary,’ ‘.....and we have a special surprise for you...’ or a submission of one’s own choice. Contact Clonakilty Library on 023-8834275 or www.clonwriters.blogspot.com for further details.
BRIDGE RETURNS
Clonakilty Bridge Club will commence play for the new season on Thursday, September 9th, at Fernhill House Hotel. Play commences at 7.45pm. New members are welcome; enquiries to Gerard O’Driscoll at 086-8337776 or Ann O’Driscoll at 023-8840361
COFFEE DAY
A coffee day in aid of the COPE Foundation will be held at the home of Bernie Harrington, Ballyduvane, on Saturday, September 11th, from 10.30am onwards. Everyone is welcome and there will also be a raffle.
FORÓIGE
Clonakilty Foróige Club will have a registration night on Friday, September 10th, at 8pm in the Parish Centre. Any child between 12 and 16 years of age is welcome. The club will reopen at 8pm on Friday 17th from 8 to 9.30pm. Any person willing to become a leader should come along on any Friday night. Present leaders are Ann O'Donovan, Pauline Coakley, James White, Anthony McDermott, Valerie Hurley, Marion Lynch and Chloe Burke.
BUCKLEY’S ART
As the summer ends and the leaves change colour, it’s a great time to consider the working environment where we have to feel our most comfortable and inspired to get the best from ourselves and co-workers. This occurred to me recently while reading a discussion on Linked-In about working in an office environment, where some points were made about the power of branding a space properly. And how true it is, the work space is a reflection of the business that is carried out there. A poorly lit dungeon is never going to produce the quality of a clean, comfortable well decorated space that mirrors the name over the door. The art within this space is essential as the visual glue that gels this together. Quality paintings and the brand is potent, poorly framed cheap prints and it’s obvious that this operation cuts corners. In between these two extremes lies a world of potential, for the range of work out there by artists has something suited to every budget. So as the kids head back to school and your time becomes your own again, think about making that work space a place you enjoy. With this in mind, Buckley’s Fine Art Clonakilty are delighted to welcome Ella Kavanagh to their studio on Convent Road. Ella’s work has such deft lighting and a homely quality about it that it exudes a warmth of comfort. Her wonderfully-evocative still lifes pay homage to Jean Baptiste Chardin and yet maintain a distinctly Irish feel.
CAMERA CLUB EXHIBITION
Clonakilty Camera Club's Exhibition continues in the Round Tower at the Celtic Ross Hotel in Rosscarbery until the end of September. There are a wide variety of photos on display – all of which are for sale, with proceeds going the COPE Foundation. The photos in the exhibition both reflect the life and landscape of West Cork, but also there are scenes and portraits from further afield. For further information about the club, check their website: www.clonakiltycameraclub.net
CLON AFC
Clon AFC’s first team suffered defeat at the hands of Beamish Cup winners Bunratty United in their first league match of the season. A disappointing result saw the juniors suffer a 3-1 defeat, however a note for optimism was promising young player Conor McKahey marking his competitive debut for the first team with a goal. The B team also suffered defeat on Sunday, going down 4-0 to Cloughduv at Ballyvackey. Three excellent strikes and a late goal from the visitors gave a slightly embellished gloss on the scoreline with the AFC side acquitting themselves well and deserving more from the game. Encouraging signs of progress suggest that this season should reward greater success for the B team in this their second season. Registration for players from under six years (born 2004) upwards will take place on Saturday, September 18th, from 9.30 to 11am at Clonakilty Sports Complex (convent astro-turf). Clonakilty AFC is look forward to welcoming new members, along with past members to this year’s 2010/’11 season. The Forristal’s Pharmacy-sponsored over-35s’ indoor Futsal five-a-side league has been run over a number of years and is designed to give the more mature player a chance to compete, partake and keep fit. Futsal is played with a reduced bounce ball, this enables close control and quick passing movement – a game that suits all levels; enquiries 087-7810564

Carrigaline

Despite the unforeseen difficulties of their builder going out of business before the contract was complete the new Carrigaline Naoinra opened this Wednesday. Great credit is due to Linda Glennon and her team who ensured the preschool was ready in time to open this term. The Naoinra, which is located adjacent to the Communiy Complex, is purpose built to cater for preschool children through the medium on Irish.
CÉILÍ MÓR
The Allow Céilí Band the 2008 All-Ireland champions are back in the Carrigaline GAA for the Céilí Mór on Saturday September 11th. The 10-piece band play a great variety of tunes for dancing from 9.30pm to 1.30am. The pure music of the Allow Céilí Band (in this age of electronically designed sounds) is a joy to dance to or even just to listen and is sure to draw one of the biggest crowds of the year to Carrigaline. Táille isteach €10 including tea. Fáilte roimh chách.
ACTIVE RETIRED
The Carrigaline Active Retired Association are back after the summer break on this Thursday September 2nd from 2.30 to 4.30pm in the Parish Centre. At a recent meeting the appeal for volunteers to help with Childline was discussed and a representative from Childline has been invited to address a meeting during September. It was decided that this year’s annual Christmas draw would support the Childline charity. Anyone retired and over 50 years of age interested in joining is welcome to come along. CARA have a varied programme of activities lined up for the month ahead and new ideas or proposals are always welcome. For further information contact Pat 086 387 1108 or Barry 087 813 7990, 021 437 2035.
DOUGLAS COMHALTAS
Douglas branch of Comhaltas Ceoltoirí Éireann are busy for the month of September. This Saturday September 4th the branch will be helping the County Board with the annual City Flag Day in the Douglas Court Shopping Centre. Members of the branch will be playing music at the centre during the course of the day. The Branch will be enrolling its existing members next Wednesday night September 8th (new students on Wednesday 15th) from 7pm to 9pm at Gaelscoil na Dúglaise. Tin whistle, flute, bodhrán, harp, banjo, mandolin, accordion, concertina, fiddle and singing are all catered for. Enquiries to Aislinn 021 437 2035 or 087 9699 488.
TIDY TOWNS
While many were holiday making away from home the Tidy Towns volunteers in Carrigaline continued with the good work to keep the town tidy with their weekly clean-up and watering the plants. Many of the Tidy Towns projects enhance the appearance of the town, which is looking very well. The Shannon Park roundabout, which was resurfaced and replanted by Cork County Council, is in full bloom and it gives a great impression at the entrance to the town. It is also greatly appreciated by visitors on their way to and from the Port of Cork. The Gáirdín Fiadhúlra is a beautiful place to just sit and relax and watch the river Owenabue flow by or watch the swans and signets that have been there recently. The Maritime Garden project by the Bridge on the Crosshaven Road has transformed that area of Carrigaline. The Maritime garden is completed and will be a great addition to the trail of gardens developed by the Tidy towns committee. This year the maintenance and continued development in the Suaimhneas Garden in the grounds of the Church of Our Lady and St John will be the Carrigaline entry in the Muintir na Tire competition. The public at large is asked to be litter conscious and avoid dropping bits of paper or cigarette butts.
ADDICTION COUNSELLING
Carrigaline Addiction Counselling: one-to-one confidential support to young people and families affected by drug or alcohol misuse. Community Addiction Counsellor available for assessment and referral to other services where necessary. Free non-judgmental service. Contact Community Drugs Worker Deirdre Nagle at 086 3837390.
RECENT DEATH
The death of Bridie Dineen, Grange Heights, Douglas and late of Cummeen, Carrigaline, took place peacefully at the South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital recently. A native of Kiltulla, Co Galway, she came to live in Carrigaline in the mid 1950s when she and her late husband Diarmuid took over the running of the family farm at Cummeen. A quiet hard-working woman she was a great family person and a wonderful neighbour. In later years she moved to live with her daughter Mary in Grange. She will be sadly missed by her loving daughters Sheila, Anne, Mary P, Eileen and Mary, sons-in-law Declan, Dieter, Matt and Pat, grandchildren Daire, Oona, Alison, Luke, Sinead, Leah, David, Rachel and Sean, brother Mick, sisters Margaret and Josie, nephews, nieces and a very wide circle of family and friends to whom widespread sympathy is extended. She was buried in St Mary’s Cemetery, Carrigaline, after requiem mass in the Church of the Incarnation, Frankfield.
INTERMEDIATE FOOTBALL
Carrigaline 3-8 Glenville 1-10: A two-goal salvo in injury time brought joy to the Carrigaline supporters as they snatched victory from the jaws of defeat in this fourth-round replay premier interdmediate football championship game played at Pairc Ui Rinn last Sunday. Carrig are now into the quarterfinals of the PIFC against Newcestown. Team: S Mellett, B Irwin, J Keohane, C Lynch, E O’Sullivan, G Harrington, W O’Brien, N Murphy, P Murphy, E Murphy, R Keohane, E O’Keeffe, T O’Sullivan, B O’Keeffe, D Drake. Scorers: B O’Keeffe 2-0, P Murphy 1-0, D Drake 0-4 (0-2 frees), W O’Brien 0-2, E O’Sullivan 0-1, E Murphy 0-1. Subs: J Moran for J R Keohane, K Forbes for B Irwin, N Coakley for T O’Sullivan, T Murphy for E Murphy.
UPCOMING FIXTUREs
Junior B Hurling Championship Ballygarvan v Carrigaline takes place Thursday September 2nd at 7pm in Ballygarvan. Junior B Football Championship Tracton v Carrigaline takes place Monday September 6th at 7pm in Tracton.
MEMBERS’ DRAW
There was no overall winner in the GAA members weekly draw this week with a jackpot of €5,000. The winning numbers were 2, 12, 25 and 31. The €100 winner was: Dave Harrington c/o Rosies. The €20 winners were: Con Russell and the Ross Family c/o Finbarr O’Leary, Pauline Collins c/o Sean O’Brien, Christine Jenkinson c/o Club and Margo Forsythe c/o Bingo. Next week’s jackpot is €5,200.
RECENT DEATH
The death of Margaret (Peg) Mc Carthy (nee O’Sullivan), took place peacefully, at Cork University Hospital recently. A member of the farming community Peg was a native of Ballinvarrig near Robertscove, she married Miah Mc Carthy a native of Nohoval and they settled in Kilmoney where they worked hard and farmed all their lives. Her husband Miah predeceased her but she reached the great age of 91. She will be sadly missed by her family Billy, Mary (Wright), Donal, Michael and Jerry, brother Dan, son-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nephew, relatives and friends to whom widespread sympathy is extended. She was buried in St Mary’s Cemetery after Requiem Mass in Our Lady and St John’s Church, Carrigaline.
COLLECTION FOR PAKISTAN
The response in Carrigaline to the Trocaire collection in aid of the Pakistan flood victims was fantastic. A collection box was placed at the back of the Church of Our Lady and St John and a total of €7, 630 was contributed to the fund. The money has been sent to Trocaire to help the victims. More donations have been handed in since by eople who missed the collection on that day.
YOUTH CLUB
The Carrigaline Youth Club is back in action again after the summer. The junior members return on Monday September 13th from 6pm to 7.30pm for 7 to 10-year-olds. The senior members return Wednesday September 15th from 7pm to 9.00pm for 11 to 17-year-olds. All are welcome to come along and bring your friends. Helpers welcome; for further information phone 085 762 5419.
RECENT DEATH
The death of Maureen (Emily) Fitzgerald, Fosters Cross, Carrigaline, took place recently in the Montenotte Care Choice. A native of Cobh, Maureen travelled to many parts of the world before retiring here to Carrigaline. She was an active member of the St Joseph’s Young Priests Society and was a very devout religious woman. Many will remember her as she walked up and down Church Hill up to quite recently. She will be sadly missed by her sisters Gerrie Doyle and Kitty, her nieces Geraldine, Claire, Liz, Eimear and Niamh, grand nephews James and Michael to whom widespread sympathy is extended. Cremation followed Requiem Mass in Our Lady and St John’s Church, Carrigaline.
Eco Exhibition
A unique exhibition is at present on show in Carrigaline Library. Produced by the girls of St John’s Girls National School it is made up of costumes made from recyclable materials and also an eco-tent made up of hundreds of patchwork squares, each one designed by a pupil of the school. This tent has been used for storytime and is a great attraction to the children. The project was directed by Mary Murphy, artist in residence at the school. A fashion show was also held at that time and the DVD of this is part of the exhibition. This project was officially opened by Cllr Derry Canty Mayor of Cork County Council last June and is well worth seeing. It will be open during library hours until Saturday September 11th.
HARBOUR OPEN DAY
Dreamer, the fastest rigid inflatable boat (RIB) in Ireland will be on show on Saturday September 4th as part of Cork Harbour Open Day. The 10-metre RIB which can reach a speed of 65 knots will be at the Port of Cork City Marina from approximately 2pm onwards for people to see. Further free family events are planned to take place around the harbour as part of Cork Harbour Open Day, such as the World Rescue Challenge on North Custom House Quay, the Irish Navy’s LE Aoife will be open to the public for tours of the ship on Horgan’s Quay. Cobh Tourism have organised a crab fishing event along the promenade in Cobh, while ten free tickets for a tour on Spike Island are being given away by tour guide Michael Martin, see www.corkharbour.ie for more details. In Crosshaven there will be farmers’ markets, coastal rowing championships, Camden Fort will be open to the public and an art exhibition by John Adams in mad Fish Blackrock Castle Observatory will be open to the public for free tours of the tower, where people will get a bird’s eye view of the boats as they pass Blackrock. Details of all events can be found at www. corkharbour.ie. To get involved in Cork Harbour Open Day or to organise an event on the day, please visit www.corkharbour.ie or contact Sara Dymond at harbourevents@corkharbour.ie or 021-4625375.

Beara & District

THE Bere Island GAA Club is making final preparations for the arrival of teams of both women and men to the island. The 13th annual Inter Island Football Tournament, which islanders call ‘the real All Island’, will take place from Friday September 10th to Sunday 12th. This year’s tournament will be hosted on the new GAA Ground Bere Island. Teams from at least eight islands – Aranmore, Inishturk, Inishboffin, Clare Island, Inishmore, Inisheer, Inishmaan and Bere Island – will compete in men’s and women’s competitions and hopefully Sherkin and Cape Clear will come together as one team if enough of a squad cannot be rousted from the small island populations individually. Mayo’s Clare Islanders will be looking to repeat last year’s performance, when they won both the men’s and women’s tournament in Inis Mor, and returned home to huge celebrations with crowds and bonfires to welcome them on the pier. Hundreds of islanders are expected to travel to the tournament which consists of a round-robin series of matches. The order of play is decided on Friday night, and games begin early on Saturday and continue till evening, with the women’s and men’s finals played at 11am and noon on Sunday. The competition offers islanders from all round the country a great chance to meet up, socialise and compare notes on island living. It’s been a great success to date.
Sea Rescue Search
On Friday evening of last week, air sea rescue services were alerted following news that a there was a missing man in a kayak off the Kenmare Bay area. The Castletownbere Lifeboat and the Shannon-based helicopter took part in the search. The search was called off when it was reported that the lone sailor, a man in his 50s, had come ashore on the Ardgroom coast at Claondaire shortly before 8am on Saturday morning.
Back to School
Hundreds of Beara children will this week pass one of life’s landmarks as they start school for the first time. The Castletownbere Scoil Na Chroi Ro Naofa opened its doors on Monday last, August 30th, for a new school year. Another sixth class group have said slan to the school and will be starting in on their second-level education in the Beara Community School, West End, Castletownbere. Many new pupils have enrolled in the local primary school and this number is very satisfactory. The arrival of a few new families in the parish over the past few years have helped to maintain the attendance average. Parents have been busy over the past week or two outfitting their young scholars in their new school uniform. With many children nowadays progressing from preschool it makes the transition easier for the pupils, but the parents in most cases still feel a teardrop appearing. With the Leaving Certificate results having being issued last week, the education system and particularly the third-level sector is again prominent in the national media, with the annual analysis of results, college places and grants delays hogging the limelight.
Fish farms Virus
Irish fish farmers have been hit by an outbreak of herpes virus in oysters. Fourteen cases around the country have been reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health by the Department of Agriculture. Herpes virus has also affected aquaculture in France and Britain this year. In 14 bays in Ireland, mortalities have been considerable, particularly in seed. The disease has stemmed from introduction of stock from an infected area, or latent infections in existing populations. Although mortalities now appear to be at an end, reinfection of stocks which will be introduced between now and next summer is anticipated when temperatures begin to climb again. Mortality ranging from 30% to 100% has been recorded at Castlemaine Harbour and Cahersiveen, Co Kerry; Lough Foyle, Lough Swilly, Dungloe, Donegal Bay, Trawbrega Bay and Loughreas Beag, Co Donegal; Clew Bay and Achill Sound, Co Mayo; Ballymacoda Bay, Co Cork; Dungarvan and Wood stown Strand, Co Waterford; and Carlingford Bay, Co Louth. Movement control is the main action being taken against the disease and a close watch is being kept by the few Beara oyster fish farms. In the old days oyster farming was common in the Castletownbere area with licences for oyster beds given to Lord Bantry of Bantry House and Thomas John Leahy, South Terrace, Cork, in that part of Berehaven outside or adjacent to the townland of Dinish Island, Derrymihan West, Foildarrig and Cametringane. After three years this licence was revoked by the Inspectors of Irish Fisheries.
Great Expectations
With the results of the annual National Tidy Towns competition for 2010 due, there is an air of expectancy in Castletownbere. There is no doubt that the current campaign has been the greatest ever in the town. Credit for this must go to the Tidy Towns Committee, the County Council and to the great work in the various areas which were literally transformed in the course of the campaign. After a magnificent effort last year, the town obtained its highest ever score, a mere three marks advance. Despite the disappointment felt by locals at the time this year’s campaign has been comprehensive, well planned and clearly successful. So there is confidence in the town that 2010 will bring a big reward. To achieve such a result would be the most fitting tribute to the work of the many who have laboured so earnestly and unselfishly. Passing through the village of Eyeries last Wednesday, we noticed it looking lovely and as always brightly painted in so many colours. After winning silver medals in the last few years, they are hoping to go further this year.
Wedding Anniversary
Congratulations and good wishes were extended to Dan and Mary (Flor) O’Sullivan, Scrivogue, Garnish, who will be celebrating their Golden Wedding Anniversary, this Friday.
Blood Pressure Clinic
There will be a Blood Pressure Clinic held at the Bantry Health Centre on Tuesday September 14th from 2pm to 4pm. All are welcome to attend this free, confidential service being offered by your local Public Health Nurse with the Health Service Executive (South). It is important for people of all ages to have their blood pressure checked on a regular basis. The Blood Pressure Clinic will be held on alternative Tuesdays of every month from 2pm to 4pm.
Heritage Centre
There will be a Watercolour Weekend with Jenni White on September 18th and 19th at Bere Island Heritage Centre. Learn to paint with watercolours: floral painting of fuchsia, skies and mountains. Two days’ painting including light lunches, teas and coffees §160 per person. The National Retreat with Fr Laurence Freeman on October 8th to 10th is now full, but they are taking names on a waiting list for a possible additional retreat weekend. Contact the Heritage Centre on 027 75956.
Beara Toastmasters
Beara Toastmasters will resume fortnightly meetings later this month, so now is an ideal time for new people to get involved. Club President, Teddy Black looks forward to welcoming new faces, as well as old. All active Toastmasters experience personal growth, but, for the club to grow, new members are needed.
Issie on Nationwide
A Castletownbere business, Issie’s Handmade Chocolate will feature on Nationwide on RTE 1 in the coming weeks. The Nationwide crew spent a full day in Castletownbere recently filming local business woman Isabel O’Donovan from Issie’s Handmade Chocolate. The programme will show Isabel making, wrapping, packing and delivering her chocolate to Murphy’s SuperValu in Castletownbere. Issie’s Handmade Chocolate has grown rapidly since it started in March of this year. It now supplies almost 30 shops in Cork, Kerry and Dublin. It is great to see a new and successful business based entirely in Castletownbere.

Bantry

BANTRY Agricultural Show press and sponsors’ night was held at The Mariner last Thursday night. Guest of honour was Bridget Garry, chairman of the Munster Council of Shows from Kildysart, Co. Clare, with her husband Councillor Oliver Garry. Bridget congratulated the Bantry Show committee on their on-going success with the show, while stressing the importance of fairness in judging. She also commented on the beauty of the area and the awesome setting at ‘The Beaches’, promising to return for show day on September 5th.
In attendance also was Mayor of Cork County Councillor Jim Daly, who hailed the show as a triumph for the organisers and all concerned. Canon Paul Willoughby and Fr. Con Cronin were on hand to pray for fine weather and the safety of everyone, both on land and on the water. The chairman John Connolly expressed his gratitude to his own hard-working committee and the sponsors without whom the show would not be possible. Even in recessionary times, their donations are magnanimous and deeply appreciated. (See show feature in this issue.)
fidil concert
There’s a wonderful opportunity to hear traditional Irish music as you’ve never heard it before when the exciting young traditional band Fidil make their Bantry debut on Friday, October 8, at 8pm. This concert is presented by West Cork Music and Music Network. CD of the week and the first ever traditional music album to receive a five star review in the Irish Times, Fidil’s new CD ‘3’ has been described as “...a milestone in Irish Music!” and a “timeless album and a truly essential addition to your collection”. What makes Fidil’s achievement even more remarkable is the fact that they don’t use any conventional accompaniment such as guitars, bodhrans, piano’s etc. It is their diverse and groundbreaking use of fiddles coupled with the depth of lore and tunes of the Donegal fiddle tradition which make Fidil one of the most unique entertaining ensembles in Irish traditional music. Complimentary cheeses and biscuits will be served in the interval and tickets are e17 (e12 students) from West Cork Music online from www.westcorkmusic.ie or by ringing the office on 027-52788. Book before September 10th and buy one ticket, get the second half price! (Please note, it is not possible to avail of this offer when booking online, you will have to ring the office). Fidil’s line-up is composed of three Donegal fiddle players: 2010 TG4 Young Musician of the Year Aidan O’Donnell, Ciarán Ó Mhaonaigh, a former TG4 Young Musician of the year and nephew of Altan’s Mairead Ní Mhaonaigh, and Damien McGeehan whose unique ability to bring different sounds and techniques to the fiddle helps Fidil go boldly where no Trad band has gone before. This concert is generously supported by the Arts Council of Ireland, Fáilte Ireland, Music Network and Cork County Council.
Think about it!
This week’s quote comes from Fuller “Follow the river and you’ll get to the sea”. Think about it!
engagement
Congratulations has been extended to Niamh Lynch of The Boutique, daughter of Kathleen and the late Richard Lynch, and Brian Murnane, son of Bob and Mary Murnane, who have announced their engagement.
Autumn’s here!
Autumn is here, and you may be looking for some new interest or activity. Mety Zantingh, life coach and colour consultant, has been in touch with the following news: Going back to normal after summer holidays is always a shock to the system, but it is also a good time to think about fun things to do in the autumn and winter. Of course, we are all hoping for an Indian summer again, but since the evenings are getting shorter, planning indoor things for the long nights ahead is becoming more attractive. If you are looking for a fun way to learn something new a number of courses and workshops are available this autumn and winter. Starting from the first week of October - different dates and times are available in Kenmare and Bantry areas. All the courses and workshops are available for individuals, existing groups (women’s groups for example) and groups specifically formed for the occasion (friends, colleagues, neighbours etc). Courses/workshops can be tailor-made to suit the needs of each group. Prices depend on group size and are available on request. For more details, call 087-2465132 or visit the website www.colourandcoachingfor confidence.com
athletics club
Bantry AC training has started again and is on every Monday and Thursday between 6 and 7pm. New members welcome, eight years and upwards.
Bantry Bay Golf
Men’s results from Bantry Bay Golf Club: Lady President Mrs Anne McGrath-Coughlan Prize to gents, 1st John White 42pts, 2nd Billy Coakley 40pts, 3rd PJ Pigott 39pts. CSS 37 Sunday Club competition 1st John Lynch 41pts, 2nd Zafer Guray 40pts, 3rd Jim Kingston 39pts. CSS 37. Occasional golfer’s competition, Wednesday, August 25th, 1st Stephen Byrne 19pts, 2nd Pat Mulhall 18pts, 3rd Seamus O’Connor 15pts. Fixtures: Bantry Blues GAA Classic Saturday, September 4th. Kaddyshack golf gents comp Sunday, September 5th. Also Monday and Friday night competitions. Occasional golfer’s competition every Wednesday, 6 to 6.30pm tee-off. Presentation Friday 3rd at 9pm. Senior men results: Wednesday, August 25th, 1st Cornie O’Neill, Mick Sullivan, Bernard Bosonnet, 2nd Steve McCormack, Pat O’Donovan, Declan Sievewright. Fixtures: Senior Open Tuesday 14th, Wednesdays draw at 12.15 and start at 12.30pm. Ladies results: Lady President Mrs Anne McGrath-Coughlan Prize, Saturday, August 28th, winner Eileen Twomey 41pts, 2nd Gretta Scully 39pts, Best gross Mary Flynn, 3rd Eileen Hopkins 38pts, 4th Mairead Cronin 38pts, 5th Olivia O’Shiel 37pts, 6th Mary Carley 36pts, Best High Handicapper, Kathleen Cronin 28pts. Best 1st 9 Sheila Williams 22pts, Best 2nd 9 Helen O’Leary 19pts, Best past captain/president Joan McCarthy 34pts. Nearest the pin, Mary Flynn, longest drive Geraldine McCarthy. Fixtures: Lady President Mrs Anne McGrath-Coughlan prize, Saturday, August 28th, graded timesheet at the bar. Celebratory dinner in clubhouse at 7pm, limited spaces available, book now. Ladies Open Day Team of three event, August 26th, sponsored by Myrtle Beach Ireland Connection timesheet open. Senior ladies results: Wednesday 25th, 1st Mary Flynn, Caroline Rothwell; 2nd Kathleen Cronin, Eileen Twomey, Geraldine O’Connell. Fixtures: Wednesdays draw at 1.30pm, all welcome. Mixed results: Tuesday 24th, 1st Almut Deicke, Thomas Beneke, Mick Sullivan; 2nd Phylis Foley, Diana Laing, Eileen O’Sullivan. Fixtures: Open Mixed Scramble draw 2pm Tuesdays, visitors welcome. Friday Monster Mixed Foursomes and barbecue, September 3rd, from 5.30pm; bring a friend!
UNEMPLOYED?
Have you been unemployed for some time and would you like some support in getting back into employment? There is a Job Support Group starting up in the Bantry area and, if you would like to be part of this, come along to a meeting at 11 o’clock next Tuesday morning in the Maritime Hotel. See more details about this in the advertisement on this page
FLOWER CLUB
‘Plants that look good in September’ is the subject of the talk by Phemie Rose to open the new season at the Bantry Flower and Garden Club on Monday, September 6th. As usual, the club will meet at the Westlodge Hotel, Bantry, at 8pm. Visitors, along with old and new members, are all welcome. The evening will include a raffle, flower arranging, horticultural and photographic competitions. To find out more about the club, visit its stand at the Bantry Agricultural Show this Sunday, September 5th.
KARATE COLLECTION
Bantry and Glengarriff Karate Club are travelling to Poland on September 23rd to compete in the World Karate Championships. This is a very expensive event to travel to and to compete in. Therefore, they are going to be present at key locations in Bantry this Friday, September 3rd, collecting money to help finance competing in this world-class event. All contributions will be gratefully appreciated.
MACRA NOTES
Bantry branch of Macra na Feirme recently held its AGM in the Maritime Hotel, Bantry. The following members were selected: chairman Ger O’Mahony, vice-chairman James Murphy, secretary Elaine Johnston, treasurer Anna Ward and PRO Vicki Murnane. Plans were also made to partake in Bantry Agricultural Show, in which the club will be running some fun competitions, all in the name of fundraising for the Niall Mellon Trust. While the going was good, the club also decided to host an inter-Macra raft race in September, followed by a barbecue in aid of a deserving local cause. More details will be made available at a future date. Anyone interested in joining Bantry Macra Club can contact them through Facebook, www.facebook.ie / BantryMacra, e-mail: BantryMacra@gmail.com, or contact Ger on 086-1734633.

Bandon

Cork County Council is satisfied that the €9.6 million Bandon Flood Relief Scheme will finally resolve the serious flood risk to Bandon Town. The scheme is being advanced by the OPW in partnership with the Council. The scheme will take a number of years to implement going through feasibility, planning, procurement and finally construction. In the interim Cork County Council has completed the removal of debris and gravel from the river channel so as to maintain the existing channel capacity to the fullest extent permitted by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) and the South West Regional Fisheries Board. The current low water levels have facilitated carrying out this work. The work has been completed outside the spawning season to minimise potential impacts to fish stocks. IFI have communicated to the Council that hydrogeological data, assessment of the sedimentology and environmental assessments would be required prior to consideration of any additional proposed works. This would include any proposed deepening or dredging of the river channel. This scientific data will become available through the course of the feasibility stage of the Flood Relief Scheme. The Council is also commissioning a flood early warning system for Bandon to be operational this winter. The feasibility of such a system for Bandon has been confirmed by UCC and will have the potential to raise flood alerts with up to six hours warning.
ICA
Gaggin ICA Guild is holding its next meeting on Thursday September 9th, at 8.30pm in the Community Hall. All members are welcomed back and a céad míle fáilte to anyone wishing to join them.
Cope
The Bandon branch of Cope will hold its next meeting in the Brogan Inn on Monday September 6th, at 8.30pm. All members are requested to attend.
Lotto
There was no winner of the €1,900 jackpot in the Bandon GAA lotto draw of last week. The following received €40 each: Gerard and Rhea Tobin, O’Mahony Avenue, Bob Burns, c/o Kilmichael bar, Elaine Murphy, The Old Still, Michael Nolan, 10 Whitethorn. Next week’s jackpot will be €2,250.
Cardiac Support Group
The Bandon Cardiac Support Group meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Town Hall, Bandon from 2.30 to 4pm. Its aim is to provide encouragement, advice, support and information to heart patients. Spouses/partners are also welcome. Further information may be had by contacting Imelda O’Connor, Cardiovascular Public Health nurse, at 021-4872626 or Martin Scully, Community Worker, at 021-4923136. Both are available from 9am until 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Fundraiser for St Peter’s
Vocal Arts Ensemble, Davis, Califiornia, with director Tracia Barbieri, the Cork Garda Male Voice Choir and the Carrigaline Singers, director Mary O’Brien, will front a major fundraising concert at St Peter’s Church of Ireland on Tuesday September 2nd, at 8pm. Admission is €10 adults, children €5. The proceeds are in aid of the Restoration of St Peter’s Church Organ Fund.
Car Boot Sale
Bandon Rugby Football Club is hosting a car boot sale at Old Chapel, Bandon, on Sunday September 5th, from 10am until 3pm. The car boot sale will feature arts, crafts and local produce. For further information on the above, contact Tom at 087-9416966.
Open Evening
The various groups that use the Town Hall, Bandon, are holding an open evening on Tuesday September 7th, from 6.30 unitil 8.30pm where visitors can view stands, meet facilitators of classes and activities, and, of course, enrol in a wide range of classes commencing in early September. The classes and activities are suited to the interest of the young and not-so-young.
Hosfords
Barbara Barrett’s month-long exhibition of paintings at Hosfords, Cappa, Enniskeane, was launched on Wednesday September 1st, at 3.30pm and Hosfords will also host the September farmers’ market on Sunday September 5th, from 12 noon until 5.30pm. Torc will appear in concert at the Blue Geranium Café at 2pm on the same day.
Brinny Pitch and Putt
The President’s Prize (John MacCarthy) was played for on Sunday last. Results: overall winner Conor O’Sullivan); 1st nett, Lorcan O’Donoughue, 1st gross, Michael Meade, 2nd nett, Jonathon O’Regan, 2nd gross, Pat Smith, 3rd nett, Jimmy Gabriel, 3rd gross, Kieren Lawlor. Ladies’ results: 1st nett, Margaret White, 1st gross, May Tobin, 2nd nett, Mary Rice, 2nd gross, Rita Cullinane, 3rd nett, Noreen Fehilly, 3rd gross, Maureen Quill. Fixtures: Sunday next, fourball at 10am, Tuesday and Wednesday night game at 7pm. Schering-Plough cups to be played on Saturday September 11th and Sunday 12th. More details next week.
Road Reopens
Town Manager Noel O’Keeffe has confirmed, through Town Clerk Pat Moore, that the N71 Bandon-Innishannon road was reopened on Monday August 30th, from 7am until 7pm, the scheduled works having been completed on Sunday August 29th. However, the road will remain closed for the next four weeks from 7pm until 7am.
Bandon AC
Bandon Athletic Club had two members on the Irish team for the recent Celtic Juvenile International held in Athlone where Ireland competed against teams from Wales, Scotland and Ulster. Brother and sister Patrick and Laura McSweeney were selected after winning gold in the All-Ireland Juvenile Championships in July. Patrick was competing in the U18 shot putt and finished in third place with a new personal best throw. Laura was competing in the U16 shot putt and she finished in second place, also with a new personal best throw. Patrick had last year been part of the Irish Schools U17 team and Laura had earlier this year been on the Irish Schools U16 and U17 teams for internationals in Cardiff and Glasgow. The club congratulated both on their great achievements.
3 TOUR
The ‘Big Broadband Switch-on with 3’ continues in Cork with the arrival of the 3 National Broadband Scheme Bus in Bandon (shopping centre car park) on Wednesday September 1st, before heading to Kanturk on Thursday 2nd. The ‘Broadband Experience’, which is currently touring National Broadband Scheme areas, will provide Cork people with the chance to drop in and be part of the ‘Big Broadband Switch On with 3’, and learn about the fantastic benefits of 3 Broadband. Calling on all Cork people interested in broadband to come along and drop into the 3 National Broadband Scheme Bus, Damien Gallagher, National Broadband Scheme Project Director at 3 commented: ‘It’s fantastic news for the county that people of all ages can now come along and test out broadband. Anyone who visits will be in with a chance to win giveaways, surf the web and get tips and advice from 3 on how to make the most of broadband.’ Gallagher continued, ‘Full rollout of our world-leading mobile broadband technology is almost complete in Cork and should be finished by October of this year. We are already seeing the benefits in many rural areas throughout the country with small businesses, rural community groups and households now online thanks to 3 and The National Broadband Scheme. We are bringing a quality broadband service to hundreds of rural communities, a service which has always been taken for granted in our towns and cities.’ Home users will have access to high-speed and high-capacity broadband, with enhanced voice, data and multimedia services, providing everything you’d expect from the web, whether it’s simply surfing or downloading music, booking flights, or making free Skype calls abroad. The National Broadband Scheme sees an estimated €223m in investment by 3 of which a maximum of €79.8m will be contributed by the Government and EU. For more information, visit www.three.ie or contact 3’s customer service team on 1800 949 519.
Film Club
The third season of Bandon Film Club will kick off this year with three film screenings at ‘Engage’, the Bandon Art Festival on Sunday September 26th. Each screening will cater for a different age group, with the first of the day, the Oscar-nominated animation, The Secret of Kells being aimed at children, followed by a selection of Irish short films geared at a youth audience while the late evening screening of the recently made and critically acclaimed His and Hers is aimed at an older audience. The screenings will be held at 3pm, 5pm and 8pm respectively. All films will be shown in the Town Hall in Bandon and the two earlier screenings will be free. Children attending the children’s film require a cushion. Membership of Bandon Film Club for the 2010-2011 season, which runs from September to June, will include entrance to the ‘Engage’ Films. Monthly screenings will be held on the second Wednesday of every month in the back of Brogan’s Inn, Kilbrogan Hill, Bandon. New members welcome! For further information, please contact 086 3819939.
Bumps to Babies
Brookes Pharmacy, Bandon, invites you and your baby to a free information morning at the Town Hall, Bandon, on Tuesday September 7th, from 10am until 2pm. Experts from a number of pharmaceutical companies will give information on a number of topics, including first aid in the home for toddlers, breastfeeding, teething, asthma, baby food, nappy rash, dry skin, etc. A midwife, public health nurse and a GP will also be in attendance. The emphasis is clearly on babies and baby products with a few treats on offer especially for mothers. You can enjoy some light refreshments and enter a free draw to win a €100 voucher for Inchydoney Lodge and Spa hotel. Full details may be had from Breda Carey or Olivia Clifford at Brookes Pharmacy (023-8841152), South Main Street.

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