Connemara View September 2008 by Connemara View Publishing

In The View An Taoiseach at Golf Club Page 3 Clifden Show Domestic Arts Page 8 Clifden Show Queen Selection Page 9 Arts Week Listings & Previews Pages 17-21 Consumer WatchDog Page 25 Childhood Obesity Page 26 Eco Stain Removal Page 28 Sheep Destocking Page 29 Kids View Page 38 Oughterard Show Page 37

In spite of enduring one of the wettest Augusts on record in recent times, Connemara was a hive of activity as the “summer” reached its climax. Some events fell prey to the foul weather somewhat, but the biggest day of the year in Clifden, Show Day, was a surprise scorcher from start to finish. It wasn’t looking too good just a few days earlier however, as the flood scene at the Showgrounds captured by Sandy Glynn depicts. The unexpected fine day lifted spirits all around and surely added to the great atmosphere and spectacle of the event. Connemara Golf Club also became a media haven when An Taoiseach Brian Cowen conducted the official opening of the new Clubhouse. He is shown here under the intense scrutiny of the press, who expressed more interest in political grilling than asking about his

handicap! Although it has existed in various guises for over 30 years, the Clubhouse has never had an official launch before, and President Eddie Foyle remarked that the Club had decided to wait for longstanding member Brian Cowen to take office as Taoiseach to do the honours! However, as we all know by now, it would take more than a bit of rain to stop the craic in Connemara and the excellent Arts Week line-up will ensure that there’s plenty of action left in us yet! Highlights include Rob Strong on the Gig Rig (fingers crossed for a dry night!), the wry and legendary Kevin McAleer, and the Gate Theatre’s worldwide acclaimed production of Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot”. So plan early and expect to be entertained and impressed once again by one of the finest Arts events in the country. Catherine Pryce

All details and entry procedures are available on Scubadive West’s dedicated competition website www. competitionssdw.com.

REGIONAL Chamber Wins Heritage Award Galway County Heritage Awards ceremony took place in the Claregalway Hotel on Thursday 28th August. Speaking at the Awards Ceremony, Cllr. Peter Feeney, Mayor of the County of Galway, said “Our heritage belongs to each one

of us and it is vital that it is valued and appreciated at a local level if we are to manage, preserve and protect it. It is clear from the number, quality and calibre of the nominations for a County Heritage Award, that our built, natural and cultural heritage is valued at a local level.” Clifden Chamber of Commerce were the first place winners for their activities encouraging the preservation of local heritage. They also increase the awareness of the wealth of local heritage through a series of annual heritage weekends. They have reawakened interest to an existing and new audience both young and old. The benefit to the area is huge in developing a pride in our heritage. Among the 2007 activities was the hugely successful Marconi Centenery Celebrations which achieved international acclaim. Second place went to Pádraic Ó Biadha of Leitir Meallain. For the last 20 years in he has been collecting valuable jewels of heritage in the form of pictures of life, work and heritage of the islands that would be lost only for his understanding and handling of local history. There is a collection of calendars available from the year 1989 to date on life in farming, fishing, customs, pastimes, emigration, youth, the elderly, traditional houses, beliefs and cultural relics from the end of the 19th century years that gives the reader an insight into the culture of the Gaeltacht for over 150 years. Photo: Mayor of County Galway Cllr Peter Feeney with Michelle Hehir of Clifden Chamber of Commerce.

Community School Parents Association Clifden Community School Parents Association will hold its ﬁrst meeting of the school year on Monday September 8th at 8.00pm. The meeting takes place in the Community School. All parents are welcome to attend this meeting and your support would be most welcome.

Renvyle House Wins Treble For the third year in a row Renvyle House Hotel has received one of the highest accolades at the prestigious Food & Wine Awards, which took place at the Mansion House in Dublin recently, Executive Chef Tim O’Sullivan was declared Best Chef in Connacht for the second year in a row; the historic hotel also won the 2006 Food & Wine Award for Best Restaurant in Connacht. Tim’s latest award ranks him alongside the three other chefs to win regional awards on the day who are all household names. They were Neven Maguire, Dylan McGrath and Paul Flynn. Going on stage to accept his award, Tim received thundering applause from the event’s guests, which included the top chefs and restaurateurs in the country. The Food & Wine Awards are unique in that the Irish dining public and readers of Food &Wine magazine vote for their favourite establishments and only those restaurants and chefs who have earned suﬃcient customer approval are submitted to the judging panel’s list. The prestigious judges included restaurant critic Paolo Tullio and wine writer Raymond Blake. This is the latest award in a string of accolades for the historic Connemara hotel. Last year Renvyle House Hotel received a lifetime achievement award from the Georgina Campbell Guides in recognition of being “a very special place to stay”. It is consistently ranked in the Bridgestone Top 100 Places to Stay in Ireland. Bridgestone author John McKenna describes Renvyle as ”Magic – magically apart, magically unfussy, magically wonderful for families, magically wonderful for its stunning cooking, a magic chillout zone – and it is currently on a mighty, unstoppable roll… Tim O’Sullivan and Ronnie Counihan haul in so much silverware and so many glass trophies they could open a jeweler’s shop”. Commenting on its latest award, Renvyle House Hotel’s Chief Executive, Ronnie Counihan said: “We’re delighted that Tim has received this award for the second year in a row. Tim is one of a handful of chefs who are the best in Ireland and the food he produces at Renvyle speaks for itself.” Photo: Award Winning Renvyle House Chef Tim O’ Sullivan.

Scuba Dive West and National Geographic Scuba Dive West a leading PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) Centre in Renvyle has recently been recognized as a prestigious National Geographic Dive Centre. As the leader in international exploration and adventure reporting, National Geographic sought flagship locations with the PADI international training system. Scubadive West’s world-class training facility will now provide a complete service for adventure divers and underwater thrill seekers. Scubadive West is open year-round and offers courses from beginners through to experienced divers. Two bespoke diving boats conduct daily dives off the stunning offshore islands of Inish Turk and InishBofin.

Photo Contest Scubadive West has just launched their Autumn 2008 Photo Competition. With both underwater and seascape categories, this competition will appeal to divers and non-divers alike. Entry is free of charge and prizes include a guided walking tour to the Canary Islands and an Island Dive Safari for Two to the value of €500! This popular competition culminates in a prize-giving evening on Saturday 25th October in ‘The Bard’s Den’ pub in Letterfrack.

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Youthreach Graduates The smiling faces of success: there were great results from the Youthreach Leaving Certiﬁcate Applied group of 2008 with four distinctions and three merits grades. Photo (l-r): Daniel Mullen, David Canavan, Erinn Geraghty, Nicole Acton, Siobhan Allan, Michael King and Shane DeLappe.

Family Information Appeal Police in Manchester are trying to track down the relatives

September 4, 2008

of a Galway native who died there in July. 75 year old Patrick Joesph Laffey died at home in Manchester on the 28th of July, but Police have not been able to find any of his relatives. His parents were Margaret and Patrick Laffey of St. Finbar’s Terrace in Galway City and he has a brother, sister and a niece. Mr. Laffey was a former resident of St. Joesph’s Industrial School in Letterfrack and lived in the general Lancashire area in England before settling in Manchester. Anyone who may have known Patrick Joesph Laffey or any of his relatives is asked to contact Officer Patal at the Greater Metropolitan Police at 00441618561376.

Croi Connemara Ramble If you fancy a ‘heart healthy trek’ through scenic Connemara,why not take a ‘walk on the wild side’ for local heart charity Croi by taking part in their annual Connemara Ramble which take place this year on Sunday, September 21st. This 7-mile (oﬀ-road, trail walk) is a guaranteed fun day out, which involves walking over gentle hill terrain, taking in the Maumean trail. The event is open to all ages and abilities but under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult or guardian.Pre-entry is required for participation and the entry fee is €25 and each ‘Rambler’ is requested to raise a minimum of €150 in sponsorship. Refreshments will be provided on the day and each participant will receive a commemorative walk cap.For further information and entry form log-on to www.croi.ie or contact Sue now on 091-544331 / email: sue@croi.ie. Photo shows ex Ros na Rún Actor and outdoor enthusiast Darach O Tuairisg with Croí Connemara Ramble organiser, Sue Lohan at the launch of this year’s Connemara Ramble.

Failte Ireland Supports B&B Fáilte Ireland have noted the publication of the “Report on Standards and Quality Options for the Bed & Breakfast Sector in Ireland” on August 27th and described it as a useful contribution to Fáilte Ireland’s own comprehensive review of the sector which is currently under way. The report was published by the Town and Country Homes Association who represent almost 1,100 of the 2,500 B&Bs approved by Fáilte Ireland.Currently, Fáilte Ireland provides significant support and funding for the B&B sector - including over €1.5m of funding for a wide range of marketing and promotional initiatives during the last five years. Bed and Breakfasts have traditionally been a distinctive feature of Irish tourism, offering guests a close-up and personal taste of Ireland’s famed welcome and hospitality. For many visitors to Ireland, the Bed & Breakfast experience holds out the expectation of something distinctive and uniquely Irish. As such, Bed & Breakfasts are a valuable element of the Ireland brand. However, over the last number of years, increased competition from hotels, guesthouses and selfcatering accommodation, as well as changing tourism patterns, have led to a decline in the number of Bed & Breakfast operators, a trend which is continuing. Fáilte Ireland, mindful of the challenges facing this sector, has established the Irish Homes Bed and Breakfast Working Group with an independent Chair to develop recommendations on the strategic development of the sector. The group includes representatives of the B&B sector (including the Town and Country Homes Association) as well as officials from both Fáilte Ireland and the Northern Irish Tourist Board. This Group will develop and recommend an action plan to drive the growth of the sector in the context of the competitive tourism market and the evolving needs of consumers. It is expected that the Group’s final report will be available this November.

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

Taoiseach Opens New Clubhouse at Connemara Championship Links The official opening of Connemara Golf Links’ new clubhouse, in Ballyconneely took place on August 27th. Members from the local community gathered to celebrate the launch of the newly redeveloped clubhouse by An Taoiseach, Mr. Brian Cowen, T.D. The project which cost in excess of €2 million completely redeveloped the existing clubhouse. An extension to the restaurant and bar was added which includes an outside seating area taking full advantage of the stunning views over the internationally renowned golf course. A new improved Pro Shop and recreational facilities are also in place, and the addition of a coach car park will appeal to groups and golf societies. The project contractor was local builder, Martin Acton Construction. Interior designers, the Kaye Rice Partnership, oversaw the transformation of the restaurant and bar which features a unique, contemporary design which optimises use of the additional space. An Taoiseach is a long-standing member of Connemara Golf Links and regularly spends his holidays in the area. At the opening, Mr. Cowen said, ‘Completed at a cost of €2.3 million, the newly redeveloped Clubhouse at Connemara Championship Golf Links is the icing on the cake of this outstanding links course. Offering restaurant facilities, a new Pro Shop and other improvements - and spectacular views over the course and the Atlantic, I have no doubt that the club will continue to flourish and provide great entertainment – and challenges – for members and visitors for many years to come.’ General Manager, Richard Flaherty, commented, ‘We are delighted with our new clubhouse and improved facilities. With the ever-increasing number of visitors to the course, as well as a broadening membership base, we felt it necessary to improve our product offering. Now we have a facility that does justice to our legendary course and can be appreciated by members and visitors alike’. Connemara Championship Links is one of the premier links clubs in Ireland and has received worldwide acclaim for its 27-hole Championship layout. The uniqueness of the links product, its stunning location, and its proximity to Clifden, the ‘capital’ of Connemara, makes the course a great attraction for both Irish and overseas visitors. Photos (clockwise from top left): An Taoiseach Brian Cowen with

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

Club President Eddie Foyle; Lady Captain Bernie Ward, Captain Peter Veldon and Club President Eddie Foyle with An Taoiseach after the unveiling of the commemorative plaque; Club Manager Richard Flaherty, Paddy Mannion, An Taoiseach, Mary Mannion and Past Captain Paddy Flaherty; David Griﬃn with Brian Cowen; Patrick (Scrapper) King with wife, Mary, and daughter, Grainne; Artist Frank Clarke and Club Manager Richard Flaherty present a painting by Frank to Brian Cowen.

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of the research projects in other parts of the building, but conﬁrmed that a new building would be needed.

Carna Lifeboat

An Ceathrú Rua

€23,500 for Crib na nÓg Éamon Ó Cuív T.D., the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Aﬀairs has sanctioned a grant of €23,502 over four months for Crib na nÓg in An Ceathrú Rua, to enable them to employ one full time worker and two part-time workers in the centre. The Minister said that Crib na nÓg were doing excellent work in organising and running activities for teenagers in An Cheathrú Rua and indeed throughout Connemara. The Minister praised the ongoing and important role taken by Crib na nÓg in providing the teenagers of the Gaeltacht community with services in their native language, and said that the existence of a centre such as Crib na nÓg, providing a range of services to young people, was of vital importance to the region.

Ballyconneely

Playschool and Afterschool Fundraising A fundraising night was held on Wednesday 20th August, 2008, at Keoghs Bar. Music was by The Hogs, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for oﬀering their service free of charge on the night. I would also like to thank all our other sponsors Hehirs, Stanleys, Gannon Sports, J.T. Joyce Auctioneers, Schu Concept, Fioccos, Supervalu, Ciuin Beauty, Poplar Linens Westport, Harvest Oﬀ Licence Moycullen, Nice N’ Clean, Mannin Bay, McWilliams and Keoghs. A great night was had by all. Our funding has been cut, and this has serious implications for the continuation of the service. A meeting will be called to discuss this in early September. All parents will be asked to attend. Caroline Joyce

Carna/Kilkieran

Fire at Carna Lab A fire caused extensive damage to a marine studies laboratory in Carna in Co Galway on Saturday August 16th. Three sections of the Martin Ryan Institute of Marine Studies NUIG were damaged. It is understood these buildings held fish tanks, which contained seaweeds, shellfish and finfish, which will now be replaced. The alarm was raised at approx 6.30am. Two units from Clifden Fire Brigade and one from Galway city attended the scene and brought the fire under control. The main academic, administrative and laboratory buildings were unaffected by the fire. Employment at the centre will therefore not be affected and efforts will begin immediately to re-establish the research projects, which were being undertaken. The centre at Carna was established in the early 1970s and the part of the centre destroyed in the fire was built in 1990. Centre director Declan Clarke said that efforts would immediately be under way to continue some

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The Carna and Islands Lifeboat committee (Bád Tárthála Chárna agus na nOileán), after a great deal of work and fundraising, have obtained a new lifeboat. The RNLI was unable to support a Carna Lifeboat due to having stations in Clifden, Shannon and Aran and suggested that the Committee approach the Coast Guard for support. The Coast Guard required a boat, a boathouse, special equipment and trained crew and for the crew to pass a test in order to be aﬃliated with them. The Committee have since undertaken great fundraising work, including the Triathlon Chonamara and a monster car raﬄe. Along with generous private and business donations, the committee hopes to secure a grant from Roinn na Gaeltachta, and a site at Mace Pier for a boathouse has also been obtained. The committee are busily working on meeting the requirements needed by the Coast Guard in order to pass its test, as the journey towards Carna having it’s own dedicated Lifeboat service continues.

Carna –Cill Chiarain Water Scheme Éamon Ó Cuív T.D., Minister for Community, Rural, and Gaeltacht Affairs announced on August 12th that he has allocated CLÁR funding of €149,700 to the Charna Chill Chiaráin Rural Water Supply Scheme extension to Tuaim Beola (ED Binn an Choire). Meanwhile,Galway County Council has informed Cllr. Thomas Welby that they will try and expedite the contracts for the Extension to Carna- Kilkieran Regional Water Scheme which will facilitate a service to Lenanagh South and Rosroe. The contract was advertised in the local press recently. This extension will service houses that were involved with the Cashel Group Water Scheme. The other houses concerned with this scheme will be serviced with the mains that is been presently been laid to connect the Carna / Cashel RWS to Roundstone. At a meeting on Friday August 22nd last in the Carna Bay Hotel, Fine Gael Senator Fidelma Healy Eames met with local residents of the Letterard-Moyrus area of Carna to outline the extension of the public water scheme to include their homes. During the meeting, Galway County Council confirmed to Senator Fidelma Healy Eames that the extension of the public water goes to tender within the month, a contractor is expected to be appointed within two months and the community should have public water for the first time in their lives by Feb/ March 2009.

Clifden

Quick Garda Response to Hostel Destruction Richard Bartley, the owner and operator of the Brookside Hostel in Clifden, is very thankful to the local Garda Siochana. Two weekends ago, they promptly responded to his call in the wee hours after four guests turned destructive after arriving back in from a night of revelry. Richard was

September 4, 2008

awakened to find a trail that started with damaged light fixtures and a broken staircase spindle and appeared to escalate to a bedroom window facing the street on the first floor being knocked out (see photo). Richard wisely phoned the local Garda Station for help, which arrived within half an hour. The young men involved in the incident, who Mr Bartley said were from Co. Mayo, left the room in a shambles, but did make restitution the next day. He was so impressed with the handling of the situation by the Gardai that he made a donation to the Garda Fund in appreciation.

Chamber News Clifden Chamber of Commerce welcomed the news that John Gormley T.D, Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government that he has given approval to Galway County Council for the preparation of contract documents for stage 1 of the Clifden Sewerage Scheme. Stage 1 of the Clifden Sewerage Scheme, which has an estimated cost of €6.9m, will provide Clifden with a new wastewater treatment plant and an improved wastewater collection network. It will reduce pollution and improve local bathing water quality. Approval has also been received for the provision of additional grant assistance of €5.7m towards water conservation in County Galway. Since last December, Clifden Chamber of Commerce have met with the County Manager and oﬃcials twice, Minister Eamonn O’Cuiv three times, Junior Minister Tony Killeen and local TDs, and the sewerage and water schemes have always been top of the agenda. We will be continuing the pressure this year and next until the job is completed. Minister Ó Cuív in welcoming this news said “I am delighted that the go ahead has been given to Galway County Council to begin preparing contract documents for the Clifden Sewerage Scheme. I recently attended a meeting with the Clifden Chamber of Commerce and Galway County Council regarding the urgent need for the scheme and I am very pleased that approval has now been sanctioned. I am sure the residents of Clifden will also be delighted that the scheme has progressed to the next stage of development”. The Chamber of Commerce will be holding a meeting to discuss the calendar of events for 2009 on Tues Sept 9th at 7pm. We would urge all members to attend and become active in our community. If you would like to get involved in upcoming events such as Marconi or Christmas, please contact Michele Hehir on 087 0520295.

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

Clifden

continued

A Decade of Design Platform! Clifden’s premier centre of style, Design Platform celebrated its 10th Birthday recently, and marked the event with a special evening of cocktails and jazz on Saturday August 16th. Design Platform has been dressing the ladies of Connemara and further aﬁeld for a decade now, and remains one

customer service and stunning styles, it’s hard to imagine Clifden without this fashion haven, which has injected no small amount of glamour and fashion into the lives of ladies in the area. And as if any further confirmation was needed, the Irish Times featured Design Platform in it’s “What’s Hot” magazine section recently with the following endorsement: “Groovy and classic all at once: we love these boutiques in Clifden and Enfield with huge dressing rooms”. Even more praise was to follow when Design Platform was also included in the annual special Style issue of the Sunday Independent Magazine Style on August 31st last. So thanks for the fashion and the fun, Design Platform, and we look forward to many more years of it! Photo: Staff and management of Design Platform, from l-r: Amelia Whelan, Laura Cross, Bridget Keogh, Catríona and John Sweeney, Sharon Griffin and Tracey Nolan.

RNLI News Summer Call-Outs

of the best and most popular boutiques in the West. Even occasional shoppers will remember the legendary sales down through the years, where amazing designer pieces could often be snapped up at incredible reductions. The emphasis at Design Platform has always been on carrying high quality prestige labels by renowned Irish and international designers, many of whom often pop in to interact with customers and staﬀ at special events like this one. Lainey Keogh, Deborah Veale, Paul Costelloe and many other fashion luminaries have graced the outlet and it’s events down through the years, and are likely to continue to do so, as it’s popularity shows no signs of waning. From the fabulous fashion shows, to the excellent

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

Our crews were called out twice during the afternoon of Sunday August 17th. The first call-out was to Killary Harbour, where a diver had been seen taking shelter on rocks having become disoriented, and surfaced away from where he should have been. The “Atlantic 75” was on exercise at the time in Clifden Bay and went immediately to the diver’s rescue. The man was brought to safety to Glassilaun Beach and the Lifeboat returned to station. Around one hour later, the crew pagers went off again. As many of the crew were already at the station, the Lifeboat was launched in minutes and on its way. This time it was going to Inishbofin, where a person on board a yacht was reported badly injured. James Mullen, a trained ambulance man, was one of the crew on this call-out. Having assessed the injury and with the help of the island nurse, they asked for a helicopter to

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airlift the lady to hospital. When no helicopter was available, the ferry “Island Discovery” brought the casualty to Cleggan, where an ambulance was waiting. Earlier in the month, some children were blown offshore in an inflatable boat in Mannin Bay. They were brought safely to shore by the Lifeboat and Crew. There were also other callouts for boats that had broken off moorings in the very unseasonal weather. Donal O Scanaill

Barbecue The Clifden RNLI Station at the Boat Club was the venue for an excellent barbecue on the evening of Friday August 22nd. It even stayed dry for the evening, while Volunteers and their families tucked into steaks, burgers, salad and more. The kids enjoyed a bouncy castle too, and a great evening was had by all. (see photo)

Fundraising News The last two months were very busy with fundraising throughout Connemara and Clifden. It started in July with the church gate collection in Connemara. The ﬁnal amount is still not known, but it seems to be the best collection ever, especially in South Connemara. Continued on next page

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RNLI Fundraising News continued Our sincere thanks to all the people who donated so generously and most of all to the collectors, some of whom collect for 10, 20, even for 40 years! These people go unnoticed, they remain anonymous and yet they collect year in year out for the lifeboats- “We don’t mind, sure it’s for a good cause”. That’s all they say. The Flag Day on August bank holiday Saturday was also very well supported. The collection at the Roundstone Caravan Park, Roundstone village and Clifden came to € 3,500 for which we are very grateful. The caravan park at Roundstone gave very generously indeed. At the same time the caravan park at Ballyconneely organised a golf competition and Patrick King donated € 500 in the name of all the players and contributors. Well done! Thank you all very much. Also at the same time a little girl called Doireann, from the Ballyconneely caravan park, who loves the sea, saw all the leisure boats in action and suddenly decided she wanted to do something for the lifeboats too! So she and a friend sold drinks and sweets to the neighbours and managed to donate € 16 to the R.N.L.I. The Connemara Pony Show Queen Committee decided this year to ask for a voluntary contribution on the night. The sum collected was to be donated to a charity. They nominated the R.N.L.I. The total came to €330. It was a great idea and we are very grateful for the donation and the thought. From the 14th to 17th of August the Roundstone Summerfest was in full action. As many of you know this is in aid of the R.N.L.I. Unfortunately the weather was appalling, the lifeboats couldn’t come to Roundstone because they were up to there necks in call outs, so subsequently the fund raising was a little diﬃcult this year. But the organisers who worked so hard, tried their best again this year. No matter what the ﬁnancial outcome will be, we want to thank Mark Forsyth, Simon Ashe, Thomas King and all friends for all the tremendous work they put in (what happened to the poor cow?!) The month of September will also be very busy. On the 14th September the Clifden 10km run will take place. We thank Laurence Ingelbach and her helpers for the huge amount of work and preparation that is going into this event On the 17th of September the Connemara Darts Competition for “Mickey Mullen and all the lost souls of the sea” will be starting. Please support both of these events if you can.

Whenever there is news of a tragedy at sea, our thoughts are with the families of the missing people and also with the crew of the lifeboats, because they also put their own lives at risk in order to save others. The Clifden/Connemara Fundraising branch would like to thank all and every body who either help in fundraising or who have so generously contributed to this charity. Annemarie Bennett

10k Run September 14th The Clifden Lifeboat 10k Run/Walk will take place on Sunday 14th September. With just over 10 days left, we have had a great response with entries coming from all over Ireland and even as far as America. The entrants will be able to collect their race numbers in Mannion’s bar from 12 noon that day. The 1st race starts at 2pm and children of all ages will be able to enter into fun runs. With what has been an excellent response from businesses and individuals in the area, it is hoped that it will be a great day for everyone.

Library News Reader of the Month: Kevin Holmes. Winners of ‘Design a T-shirt’ competition: Francesca Mc Donagh and Shauna Horan.

The Summer Reading Challenge has come to a close; this year a record breaking number of children took part. The presentation of Certiﬁcates will take place in September. Congratulations to everyone who took part. The closing date for entries to the photograph competition is 30th August. The lucky winner will receive a fabulous digital camera sponsored by Youthreach Fun Run and Galway County Libraries. Check with the library for dates of the presentation of certiﬁcates and details of the photograph competition. Arts Week 2008: Clifden Library is delighted to be host to several events of music and poetry during Arts Week September 18th to 28th. Check with the library for details and times of events.

Dun Gibbons News A successful meeting was held on the 25th August, 2008 at Dun Gibbons between the residents and the support group. Those present benefited from a question and answer session on a wide range of issues being addressed with input from various NGO’s. Gavin Lavelle suggested ‘car pool’ as an idea for the children in the Community School from the centre. They walk the long distance to school from Westport Road and the financial outlay for Bus Eireann is beyond the reach of residents. The rural roads are dangerous and with the winter and longer nights approaching, the car pool idea would be greatly appreciated. Anyone willing to car pool for the centre on their way to the school kindly contact the centre. The County Galway VEC in conjunction with the Clifden VEC will look into the residents attending various courses during the autumn and winter and to provide a channel for the residents to discuss their training needs through their workshops held monthly in Clifden. Tadhg Crowley of Galway VEC gave a presentation and a couple of appointments were made with residents. On the 16th August a fun day was held at the centre where the children and adults alike at the centre jumped their way to smiles and laughter. A bouncing castle was erected at the centre thanks to the residents committee and also organised treats. The management served food outside and music from the residents was blasted throughout the centre; though the weather was not great the fun, music and laughter was sufficient and after well over six hours later everyone still wanted more. That was a great day to remember. Beatrice Mbogo

St. Anne’s CNU Nine residents with the help and support of Elisa-

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September 4, 2008

beth Wilschut, Alannah Robbins and Laura Melling won the first prize in the one of the arts sections, The Delia O’Toole Memorial Plaque, (see photo of Elisabeth accepting the award on their behalf )at the Clifden Pony Show. They are Henk Berings, Gertie Connelly, Mary Anne O’Donnell, Mary Downes, Barbara Joyce, Thomas Joyce, Mary Margaret O’Toole, Padraigh McGovern, and Sean Nee. The average age of the artists is 81 years. Alannah is our artist in residence sponsored by the Galway County Council Burning Bright Project and Laura is one of our volunteers. Elisabeth is the Play Therapist in St. Anne’s Community Nursing Unit in Clifden. The residents used the decoupage technique to refurbish a small side table. Using small strips of different coloured paper and pictures of fish they covered the top of the table and finished it with several layers of clear non-toxic varnish. We also entered the potato and shell competition with out homegrown potatoes and a hand-made waistcoat with shell buttons. We were not successful in these categories. There are also the usual activities in St. Anne’s so if you have time, pop in, you are most welcome. We offered St. Anne’s CNU as a venue for an exhibition in Clifden Arts Week. I would also like to say a heartfelt thank you to all staff for the hard work in St. Anne’s; they are doing a great job in looking after the residents. Marian Hanrahan

Cong

Quiet Man Pub Pat Cohan’s Bar in Cong in Quiet Man Country is now open for business, looking exactly as it did when it featured in the very famous movie starring John Wayne and Maureen O Hara. The bar will have an official opening on September 17th at 12 noon, and all are welcome for what is guaranteed to be a day full of fun, laughter and craic. Pat Cohan’s in Cong was actually a shop in real life but Hollywood director John Ford converted it into a bar for the Oscarwinning 1952 movie. The Quiet Man Movie Club, in association with Pat Cohan’s bar, are running a look-a-like competition to find a dead ringer for Michaleen the match maker, played by Hollywood Movie star Barry Fitzgerald to coincide with the official opening of the bar,on September 17. If you feel you are that look-a-like or know someone who is we would like to hear from you. Please send your photos to Pat Cohan’s Bar, Main Street, Cong Co Mayo Closing date for entries is Saturday13th September 2008. Further information from Paddy Rock 087-2439760 e:mail paddy@quietmanmovieclub.com Photos: Michaleen the Matchmaker of The Quiet Man. Owner John Connolly at the taps of a replica of the original pub that featured in The Quiet Man film.

Le tte r to the Ed itor Dear Editor, Having visited my late uncle on many occasions when he was resident in St Anne’s for a number of years, I was appalled to hear of bed closures and the possibility of the future of the hospital being questioned. Having had relatives in other nursing homes in the past I must say St Anne’s tops them all for care, cleanliness, friendly helpful management and staﬀ, to mention but a few. It should also be taken into consideration by the “powers that be” that it is “close to home” for people to visit their loved ones. Hopefully the eﬀorts made by management, local authority and local politicians will succeed in keeping this much needed great facility open and operating at full strength for many years to come. Yours Sincerely, Nancy (Nee) Hegarty, Killarney.

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

Inishboﬁn

€222,500 for Road Works The Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Mr. Éamon Ó Cuív T.D., has announced grant moneys of €122,500 from the Deparment and an additional €122,500 from Galway County Council to carry out on coastal defence improvements as well as the upgrading and improvement of roads, slipways and other minor works on Inishbofin between now and the end of 2008. The specific projects are: • 600m of the public road to be restored from South Shore towards the main quay. Department Grant: €50,000; County Council Grant: €50,000; Total Cost: €100,000. • A new surface to be laid on the road behind the Days Hotel, 200m, plus an outer wall.* Department Grant: €22,500; County Council Grant:€22,500. Total Cost: €45,000. • Pound Road to the Community Centre, 450m.* Department Grant: €50,000; County Council Grant: €50,000; Total Cost: €100,000. *N.B. The stonewalls of these roads need to be repaired also.

Kylemore

Mass at Kylemore Abbey Weekly Mass takes place at Kylemore Abbey chapel every Sunday at 11:30am and all are welcome to attend. Those attending should be present at the Abbey by 11:20am.

Day Retreat The next Day Retreat at Kylemore Abbey is Saturday 13th September. As always, all are welcome. The topic is “The Human Pilgrimage” and Abbot Celestine Cullen OSB will give the afternoon talk.

Letterfrack Galway County Council has informed Cllr. Thomas Welby that they hope to advertise in the next couple of weeks the contracts for an extension of the mains to service Dawros in Letterfrack. The works will involve the laying of mains to service approx. 30 houses. The contract will also include proposals for the upgrading of the rising main and pumps to service the Tullycross reservoir. This reservoir is currently servicing a large area between Tullycross and Letterfrack. Cllr Welby states “I have been pressing Galway County Council in relation to these works for a number of months and I would hope they can progress quickly”.

Maam

National Lottery Congratulations to Catherine Joyce, Carragarew, Maam, who appeared on the Big Money Game, RTE1 on Saturday August 23rd.Catherine won a cash prize of €29,000 and a holiday in Barcelona.

Birth Congratulations to Pat and Regina Keane, Maam, on the birth of their baby daughter, Elsie Rose, a sister for Patrick and Alex. Rosemary Hanley

Maam Cross

Mart and Pony Sales Some new and much anticipated dates have been added to the Connemara Pony Calendar in recent weeks with the re-launching of the Maam Cross Mart and Pony Sales and the establishment of a second outlet for sales of pure bred Connemara Ponies in the Connemara area. Although traditionally associated with the weekly sale of sheep and cattle Maam Cross Mart Manager Eoin Burke has, after consultations with owners and breeders in the Connemara and South Mayo area organised three Catalogue Sales in 2008. The next catalogue sales of Connemara Ponies and Foals at Maam Cross is scheduled for Sunday, 16th November 2008 followed by a sale at the end of December. Entry forms are now available for the November sales by calling Maam Cross Pony Sales on 091-552254 or by e-mail to: maamcrossponysales@gmail.com. Purchasers from overseas who buy a pony at Maam Cross Pony Sales will be entitled to reimbursements of travel to the equivalent value of the cost of an Apex air ticket from their country of origin. Application forms and further details available at the sale.

Moycullen The residents of Moycullen Nursing home were treated to some great fun during Race Week this year. The residents brewed, bottled and labeled their own Elderﬂower Champagne. They used the occasion to open the champagne during the Mad Hatters party at the Nursing Home, when they all got dressed up

Captain’s Prize Winner Congratulations to Terry Keenan, Maam, who won the (Peter Veldon) Captain’s Prize in the Connemara Golf Club on the 13th of July. Terry ﬁnished with a score of 104 to win by half a shot. This is the ﬁrst time that the Captain’s Prize has come to Maam Valley.

Joyce Country Echo The community magazine Joyce Country Echo is now on sale in shops in Leenane, Maam, Cornamona, Clonbur, Finney, Maam Cross and Recess. It contains photos, poetry, a competition, items on community events, sports, local news, etc.

Maam Womens Group Meetings resume on Thursday 4th September, in Ionad Pobail an Mhama at 8.30pm. Art classes begin in October and other classes, talks and outings are planned for the Winter months. New members are welcome.

Golden Mile of Maam The Tullaghy Road has been entered in the Golden Mile of Galway competition. The application form, map & photographs of the mile have been sent to The Heritage Dept., of Galway Co. Council. Judging takes place later in the year.

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

and wore some lovely hats. Our special guest for the day was Celebrity Judge Carmel Stephens aka Geraldine from Fair City, who judged the competition. Maura Horan, Director of Nursing, Moycullen Nursing Home. Photos: Sr Ida, Bessie Pryce of Coolacloy, Clifden and Carmel Stephens. Carmel Stephens and prizewinner Emer O Toole.

ber (7-8pm, weekday to be announced). Who can come? EVERYONE with at least a basic technical ability and a good understanding of their musical instrument. Next step? Ring/text Kerry E’lyn in Clann Resource Centre on 557633 or 087 684 2865 and tell us what instrument you play and what evenings suit you. Don’t delay! Ring Kerry E’lyn today! Rainbows is a peer support programme to assist children who are grieving a death or separation/divorce in the family. It provides a safe, conﬁdential setting in which participants can express their feelings with others who are experiencing similar situations. Clann will be running a Rainbows programme in Moycullen this autumn; please contact us for more information. Oughterard Club4U: The members of Oughterard Club4U, a club for teenagers 15-18 years old, have a number of ideas up their sleeve. Join up this September and get involved! The youth and adult committee members will be getting trained in the autumn. We are still seeking adults who would like to work with the club to do projects, take trips, run discos, and generally enjoy and develop themselves. The youth of Oughterard need adults to support them in positive activities!! Please, if you can spare a couple of hours every few weeks, call in to Kerry E’lyn for a chat about helping the Oughterard Club4U. Youth democracy group: The youth democracy group will take a trip to Portumna’s new youth café, and go kayaking, this autumn, as well as a trip to the Galway County Council’s County Hall. If you’re interested in getting involved in the group, contact Clann. (6th class and up). Firepoint, Oughterard’s dance troupe, is starting up in September! Ages 12-16. Do you love to dance? Want to learn more about dance? Get in touch! First come, ﬁrst serve, so don’t leave it too late! Radio documentary on racism: The radio programme on racism that some young people from Oughterard made in collaboration with youth from SPARK (Support Project for Adolescent Refugee Kids), the Galway One World Centre, and Connemara Community Radio was aired on Connemara Community Radio on 3rd June. It will also be covered in an article in the National Youth Council of Ireland’s youth arts magazine, In2. Spraoi, the Oughterard Youth Circus, launched in Oughterard on 5th June with a performance in the Community Centre, and performed with the Galway Circus Project in a big top in Galway on Sunday, 29th June. Spraoi will be starting up again in September, with a clowning college and rehearsals in juggling and other circus skills. We need adults to help out with Spraoi, to keep it going! If you’d like to help kids grow and develop through circus, and have great fun while you’re at it, please contact Kerry E’lyn in Clann. Continued on page 10

Oughterard

Oughterard Youth News BeatClub: Listen up, all you young musicians! Tired of sitting at home practising your music by yourself? Wanna try something new, fun, and (almost) free? Check out BeatClub! Get together with other aspiring musicians to jam in a fun and relaxed environment, with an eye to eventually performing publicly. What do we do? Mainly pop, rock, and blues. Where do we do it? Oughterard – venue to be announced! When do we start? 2nd week in Septem-

September 4, 2008

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Domestic Arts Winners Six Brown Eggs: Patrick Mannion, Barnanoraun. Six Duck Eggs: Mairead Nee, Renvyle. Marmalade: Mary Gough,Clifden. Jam or Jelly: Mary Gough,Clifden, Boiled Fruit Cake: Mary Gough, Clifden. Apple Tart: Mary Pryce, Bayleek, Clifden. Light Fruit Cake: Mary Gibbons, Clifden. Rich Fruit Cake: Mary Gibbons, Clifden. Six Brown Scones: Arlene Walsh Wallace, Clifden. Six Fruit Scones: Bridget Mannion, Cashel. White Soda Cake: Ellen Gannon, Moyard. Brown Soda Cake: Mary Pryce, Clifden. Porter Cake: Mary Gibbons, Clifden. 6 Biscuits/Cookies Made by Child Under 16: Nathan Molloy, Clifden. Homemade Candy: Grace King, Clifden. Jam Sponge Cake: Rosemary MacNaughton, Clifden. Woollen or Cotton Article: Regina Hopkins, Clifden. Cardigan or Jumper to Fit a Child Under 5: Mena Ryan, Clifden. Pair of Socks or Slippers: Nora Halloran, Clifden. An Article of Crochet: Heather Ward, Mary Conneely, Clifden. Winners of the Connemara View €100 new entry in crochet prize. Large Patchwork Quilt: Mary Hickey, Clifden. Patchwork/Applique/Quilting: Regina Hopkins, Clifden. Soft Toy: Aoife Mannion, Barnanoraun. Winner of the Connemara View €50 New Entry by a Child prize. An Article of Needle Waeving (Embroidery): Barbara Davies, Cashel. A Wallhanging: Jacquetta Nuthall, Clifden. Decoupage: St. Anne’s C.N.U, Clifden. Unframed Painting by Adult: Barbara Davies, Cashel. Framed Photo Taken by Adult: Sheena O’Brien,Castlelyons, Co. Cork. Winner of the Connemara View €100 New Entry in Photography prize. Stained Glass: Darwyn O’Halloran, Moyard. An Unframed Painting by a Child Under 16: Oisin O’Malley, Cleggan. Framed Photo Taken by a Child Under 16: Margaret Ann Mannion, Barnanoraun. A Drawing by a National School Child: Mairead Nee, Renvyle. A Painted Stone by a National School Child: Kevin Mullen, Moyard. A Handmade Article Decorated with Seashells: Anne/Ronan Mullen, Moyard. A Collage Made by a Child Under 16: Elise Galand, Clifden. Unclassiﬁed Craft Made by a Child Under 16: Anne/Ronan Mullen, Moyard. Six Kerr Pink Potatoes: Gearoid Heanue, Clifden. Six Potatoes: Lauren de Salvo, Clifden. Five Onions: Lauren de Salvo, Clifden. Five Stalks of Rhubarb: Bridget Mannion, Cashel. Three Heads of Lettuce: Kevin Mullen, Moyard. Three Heads of Garden Cabbage: Patrick Mannion, Barnanoraun. Three Parsnips: Joe O’Malley, Clifden. Three Carrots: Joe O’Malley, Clifden. Three Garden Beets: Mary Keenan, Clifden. Three Table Turnips: Mary Keenan, Clifden. Collection of Useful Vegetables: Bridget Mannion, Cashel. Five Apples: Aoife Keady, Furbo. Vase of Wild Flowers: Tamara Brooks, Clifden. Arrangement of Garden Flowers: Stephanie Brooks, Clifden.

The 2008 Clifden Show Domestic Arts Section saw a huge increase in entries this year. The Cup Winner was Mary Gibbons of Clifden (photo above with Mary Joe Heanue) for her numerous winning baked goods. Mary Keenan of Derrylea, Clifden (photo below) earned red ribbons for her turnips and beets. Arlene Walsh Wallace of Clifden delighted the judges with her scones. Patrick Mannion, Barnanoraun certainly rewarded his hens for laying prize winning eggs, and Grace King of Clifden was beaming over her winning truﬄes. Mary Pryce of Bayleek, Clifden is no stranger to ribbons for her baked goods, this year for her apple tart and brown soda bread. Another seasoned star, Mary Gough’s jam, marmalade and boiled fruit cake netted her even more ribbons. Ronan Mullen of Moyard used seashells to create a three dimensional world. Heather Ward and Mary Conneely won both the ribbon for crochet and the Connemara View €100 prize for a new entrant in crochet. The residents of St. Anne’s Nursing unit can be very proud of their decoupage table. Barbara Davies of Cashel painted her way to red ribbons with her horse and zebra portraits.

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September 4, 2008

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

Sun and Fun at the Show

The amazingly sunny and hot day made for record attendance at the 84th Annual Clifden Connemara Pony Show on August 21st. The Dog Show attracted a huge crowd where the Champion was Kevin Hillman’s Newfoundland, Keano. The Fancy Dress Winner, Patches, was a Jack Russell owned by Mary Kaighery. He kept his dodo throughout the entire judging process! The Noreen Mahon-Mangan Perpetual Cup for Irish Dancing was won by Shauna Keaney. Minister Tony Killeen oﬃcially opened the Show on the day, shown here with the Abbeyglen’s Paul Hughes, Clifden Chamber President Gerard King and Connemara Pony Breeders Society President, Dermot Power. Galway TD Frank Fahey was in attendance, shown here with Dr. John Casey and his wife, Brenda.

Clifden Connemara Pony Show Queen It was an evening of glamour, giggles and fun on Sunday August 17th, when the annual Clifden Connemara Pony Show Queen selection took place at the Station House Hotel. Eleven girls took part in the competition, and Damien Manning took on the role of MC for the evening. The judges were Louise Ryan, Paula Feeney of Feeney’s Equestrian Centre Galway, and Owen Loughney, who is aﬃliated

Queen for 2008 was Eva Coneys who performed the song “Angel” by Sarah McLachlan. She was presented with her prizes and tiara and sash by last year’s queen Aoife Burke. After the girls were presented with their prizes, and many photos were taken, all involved went on to enjoy a great night of dancing and fun. Once again the Connemara Pony Show queen selection was a night of great fun and entertainment, thanks to the hard work of Committee Organisers Lavinia Bray, Aoife Heanue, Paraic Heanue and Martin Vincent Mannion. Photos: (L-r): Jennifer Heﬀernan (Abbeyglen Hotel), Ashling Flaherty (Station House Hotel), Blathnaid McGuinn (Roger Finnerty & Sons Butchers), Michelle Conroy (Connemara Golf Club), Claire Mullen (Shanaheever Campsite), Della Davis (EJ Kings), Leanne Abery (Super Valu), Eva Coneys (Letterfrack Hardware), Fiona McDermott (Fiocco’s ), Aisling Kane ( Noel Connolly Plant Hire) and Michelle Acton (Ciuin Health & Beauty). Winner Eva with her parents Peter and Rosaleen Coneys.

with Catwalk Modelling Agency. The Station House Function Room was packed with family and friends of the girls, who made their entrances on stage to lively music provided by DJ Mike O Malley. Each girl was interviewed by Damien, who asked them about their general interests and hobbies, the people they admired most, and then each performed a talent piece. The performances from the girls ranged from reciting poetry,and guitar and concertina playing, to Irish dancing and even a tango/belly dance fusion display! The interviews were funny at times and entertaining throughout and Damien seemed to put all the girls at ease, despite some nerves. When asked who they most admired, the majority of the girls cited local people and their parents, friends or family members as their choice, which was a great indication of the down-to-earth attitudes of the girls taking part. Entertainment at the half time interval was provided by accomplished dancers Rebecca Sweeney, Amy Coyne and Teresa Gibbons who gave fantastic displays both individually and as a group. The prizes on oﬀer were truly ﬁrst class, with the winner set to receive a €500 prize, a specially commissioned crystal vase, a voucher for Ciuin Health & Beauty and of course the Show Queen 2008 Tiara and Sash. The 2nd place runner up received a €200 prize and a stunning Newbridge jewellery necklace and bracelet set. After all the interviews and performances had taken place, the judges deliberated before naming the winners. In 2nd place was Fiona McDermott, sponsored by Fiocco’s of Clifden, who gave a great display of Irish dancing. The Show

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

September 4, 2008

PAGE 9

Oughterard Youth News continued Oughterard Youth Arts Festival: We’re looking for people to develop the festival for next year! Have ideas for OYAF ’09? Want to work alongside youth and adults to create a fabulous Youth Arts Festival for Oughterard? Get in touch!! Planning will begin in the next week or two, so move fast! The Girls’ Group, just for 1st and 2nd year girls, will be starting up again in September; it will be a space for girls to get together on their own terms. Contact Kerry E’lyn for more info! The Oughterard Youth Café is still looking for volunteers to help run the café. We need a rota of adult volunteers who will be able to work one shift every couple of weeks or so, so we can open the youth café and keep it open! Training will be provided. We are also seeking new people for the youth café management committee (youth and adults), which will make decisions about the running of the café and manage it generally. Drop in to Clann to discuss it! Kerry E’lyn Larkin

Centenery Mass Mass was celebrated at the Corribdale GAA grounds, on Monday 25th August to celebrate the centenery of Cumann Peile Seamus O’Maille. The occassion was well attended and refreshments were provided. The weather was warm and ﬁne, apart from an occassional shower. Mass was celebrated by Canon Christy O’Connor, Canon Joe Keogh and F’r Jimmy Walsh. Photo (l-r): Canon Christy O’Connor, Canon Joe Keogh, F’r Jimmy Walsh , Sean O’Malley. Front - Gerry D’Arcy, Gerry Gibbons, Dennis Geoghegan (Gerry and Dennis provided the music and singing ). Photo by Tom Broderick.

Oughterard Sewerage Scheme Councillor Sean Kyne has taken issue with Cllr Seamus Walsh over comments made regarding the Oughterard sewerage scheme. Cllr Kyne stated that reading comments made by Cllr Walsh would make one believe that the fault for the delay with the Oughterard sewerage was due to poor workmanship within the Council Water Section whereas, says Cllr Kyne, the fault lies with red tape, bureaucracy and nonprioritisation of the scheme by the Department of the Environment. Cllr Kyne stated that Galway County Council has “lost” between 12 and 18 months in it’s Water Investment programme due to changes requested by the Department in the formatting and presentation of briefs regarding sewerage schemes across the County. Galway County Council sent the brief for the appointment of Consultants for the Oughterard sewerage scheme to the Department of the Environment in November 2007 and they returned it in June requesting revisions, according to Cllr Kyne. He added that the request was not relating to the quality of the documentation sent by Galway County Council but merely the format of the information presented. “In essence the Department wanted the information presented diﬀerently and have kept changing the template for these briefs” said Cllr Kyne. He added that it is disingenuous of Cllr Walsh to give the impression that the failure lies at the door of Galway County Council when it is quite clear the fault lies with his Government who have kept changing the goal posts in relation to the presentation of documentation for this important scheme and indeed all large schemes across the County. Cllr Kyne added that it had taken over seven months for the Department of the Environment to go through the original brief before replying to the County Council. Cllr Kyne stated that it is quite clear

PAGE 10

that the file lay sitting on a desk in the Department offices such was the priority been given to it by the Government, even with a green Minister. Cllr Kyne added he accepts that Cllr Walsh is now “well bedded in” with Fianna Fail but he finds it strange that any Councillor would feel the need to praise former Minister Dick Roche who was sacked from cabinet in 2007. Says Cllr Kyne, “It was Dick Roche as Minister who put a cap of €10,000 per house on Department funding on sewerage schemes across the Country, something which every Councillor in Galway has criticised, including Fianna Fail Councillors and yet Seamus Walsh defends Minister Roche.” Cllr Kyne has confirmed that Galway County Council have sent the brief for the Oughterard sewerage scheme back to the Department on the 8th of August. He added that he hopes the Department give it every priority but that under the present system, which can only be changed by Government, a sewerage plant being operational in Oughterard is still years away. Cllr. Thomas Welby has been informed by Galway County Council that they have responded to queries from the Department of Environment in relation to the Oughterard Sewage Treatment Plant. It is now up to the Department of Environment to assess the information and if it is satisfied it will inform Galway County Council to proceed with appointment of Consultants to draw up a brief for contract documents. Following representations by Galway West Deputy Noel Grealish, Minister for the Environment John Gormley has given assurances that the Oughterard Sewerage Scheme is to be expedited within the Department of the Environment. ‘The Minister recently assured me that when the amended brief is submitted by Galway County Council it will receive prompt attention within his Department,’ said Deputy Grealish. ‘Now that all documentation has been submitted by Galway County Council I have written to the Minister asking that he give this matter his personal attention and ensure that it is dealt with as a matter of priority.’ ‘The development of a new sewerage scheme for Oughterard is vital to prevent further environmental damage to Lough Corrib and the construction of a new plant should help reverse economic decline, which Ougherard has witnessed over the last number of years.’ ‘A meeting is also being held next week between landowners in Oughterard and officials in Galway County Council to secure land for the treatment plant and to proceed with its purchase. ‘Once completed the new sewerage scheme will protect water quality and allow for an increase in tourism in the area, which is heavily dependent on fishing and good water quality.’ ‘I will continue to liaise with Minister John Gormley to ensure that this project continues to progress as quickly as possible within the Department of the Environment and I hope that construction can begin before the end of 2008,’ Deputy Grealish concluded.

and spades then tear down to the beach again and get busy building sandcastles. Great prizes here and stiﬀ competition amongst those producing Creations of Sand. Sandcastles my eye! Sand sculptures more like! Towards evening all attention turned to the green for the Tug-O-War. Some teams had travelled quite a distance to partake in this age old sport. Kids formed teams to join in the fun. There were trophies for all winners and medals for runners up in the children’s event. So overall it was – yet again - a great day. People dropped by as always to say thank you on their way home. Granted it’s not easy cook burgers in the rain, sell drinks or direct traﬃc while it pours – or run any other event but - you know what – we managed to raise over €1,200 for ISPCC and Childline and continue to raise awareness of what it is all about, and we managed to have a good time! Thank you to all who helped in any way, to those who came out despite the weather, to all who encourage and support WaterSports Day every year, to new people who have come on board, to schoolchildren who colour our posters and to their teachers for their continuous cooperation. We look forward to seeing you all again next year. Patricia Keane

Lettergesh N.S. Pictured are some pupils of Lettergesh National School at some of the many events they took part in throughout the last school year. The Lettergesh Fun Run team who finished 3rd place in the School’s section. (l-r) Karen Walsh, Luke Walsh, Darragh Faherty and Brendan Regan. Lettergesh NS on their visit to Sonnagh Old Windfarm, Loughrea. Back (l-r): Aoife Gibbons, Karen Walsh, Martina Kelly (teacher), Kate Faherty and Charlene Glynn. Front (l-r) Luke Walsh and Daniel Kane. Prize winners for full attendance in the 07-’08 school year at Lettergesh N. S. (l-r) Niall King, Daniel Kane Fr. Gerry Burns (Chairperson B.O.M.), Grace Laffey, Darragh Faherty and Jack Laffey.

Renvyle

Annual WaterSports Day at Glassilaun With emphasis on the word ‘Water’, 2008 proved to be the year when WaterSports Day excelled. First there was the odd shower, then it rained a bit, then after a dry spell it rained a lot. However, that did not deter over 300 people from descending on Glassilaun Beach, Renvyle. There was the “faithful” who turn up every year to run events, plus some newcomers who looked a bit doubtful at times as cars arrived. We were half expecting them to turn around and take off again but – no such thing! They were intent on heading on down to the beach to enjoy themselves! Once down there, they proceeded to join in the activities and have a ball! Yes, numbers were down, money collected was down and the weather was disappointing but the point was proven – WaterSports Day is well established as one of the days not to be missed whatever the weather. Before long, boats were flat out speeding through the waves giving all aboard thrills and spills, while kayaks catered for the somewhat calmer approach to water. For those seeking out what lay beneath the surf, scuba-diving was the way to go. Back on shore, ponies walked the beach carrying their riders patiently – a first time on horseback for many children. Races, prizes and medals galore for ages of all sorts, then time to zoom up to the ever popular Bouncy Castle and Slide. Grab something to eat from the Barbeque, get your face painted and off to the shop to buy buckets

September 4, 2008

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

Renvyle continued Tully N.S

Music classes have been taught in ‘The Blue Room’ at Tully NS since September 07 and have consisted of a mixture of both exam and non-exam based lessons. Instruments taught are Piano, Violin, Guitar, Tin Whistle and more. This year students took R.I.A.M exams (Royal Irish Academy of

flew in to Brigit’s Garden in Roscahill last Sunday with their families for a magical afternoon. Children met the Fairy Queen, listened to her stories in the thatched Roundhouse and joined in a musical parade through the beautiful Celtic gardens. There was also a special treasure hunt to find the Fairy gold, face-painting and crown-making. And for once the rain held off and the afternoon was pleasantly sunny! The Fairies and Elves day was part of the summer family programme at Brigit’s Garden and a fund-raiser for the project, which is an educational charity. Photo: Matthew Marshall with the Fairy Queen.

Roadworks Progressive Democrats Councillor Thomas Welby announced that six tenders for work on the N59 at Roscahill have been received by Galway County Council. The preferred tender will be finalised within the next couple of weeks and that work can commence in early September. ‘This is a very dangerous stretch of road and resurfacing and realignment needs to be carried out as a matter of urgency,’ said Cllr. Welby. ‘€1.5 million was allocated by the NRA in the current year for the completion of these works and this was the largest allocation for any works on the N59 in 2008.’ ‘I am delighted that the project is proceeding at a steady pace and that work will soon be starting on this road. I am confident that the proposed works, when completed will significantly increase road safety in this area,’ he concluded.

Roundstone

Roundstone SummerFest 2008 Music). These exams take place three times per year all over the country, however, it is a first time experience for most Renvyle pupils of national school age. Pupils below took their grades in May and the instruments graded were Piano and Violin. RESULTS: Elementary – Piano: Rebecca Mullen-Honours; Mairead Nee-Distinction; Loretta Coyne-Honours. Preliminary – Violin: Charlene Glynn- Distinction, Karen Walsh- Distinction; Sinead Nee-Distinction; Triona Gannon – Distinction. Primary Grade: Jack Kane- Distinction; Karen Walsh-Merit; Roisin Heffernan-Merit. I would like to congratulate all the pupils for achieving such great results (especially to the first-timers!) and well done for sticking with it! Practice makes perfect! I would also like to say a huge thank you to all the parents who have been bringing their children up to the Blue Room. Children seem to have high flyin’ schedules these days so parents, well done! The certs are for you too! We ended the school term with our usual summer concert and it was wonderful to see pupils (exam or no exam) performing to an audience. This is a great way for the children to build confidence at a tender age. Well done kids and best of luck for your new school year! Shona Flaherty

Tragedy for French Tourists The two French tourists who lost their lives in the tragic accident on the Lettergesh Road in Renvyle on Tuesday August 12th have been named as Laurent Roy, aged 49, and Claude Chanterlaut, aged 67. The Ford Mondeo they were travelling in left the road and plunged into a river below, and despite their best eﬀorts, locals, local doctor Irene Nee, the Gardai and Fire Brigade were unable to save the two men, who died at the scene. The two female back seat passengers survived the accident and were treated at UCHG. A prayer service was held at the site of the accident on Sunday August 17th, which was attended by a large number of people, as a mark of respect to the men who died and to oﬀer condolences to their families.

Roscahill

A Magical Day at Brigit’s Garden Young elves and fairies looking for some late summer fun

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

The 7th annual Roundstone Summerfest recently took place in Roundstone.The popularity of Summerfest has been growing and it is now ﬁrmly established as one of the highlights of the calendar. The youngsters were fantastically well looked after, from the Teddy Bear’s Picnic to the Kiddies (and parents!) Afternoon Disco Party with DJ Mike, to the weird and wonderful Street Theatre and Puppets, along with many other fun and games. The Atlantic Hole-In-One Golf Competition, teeing oﬀ from the Quay nearest O’Dowd’s, was again one of the highlights of this years Summerfest. The elements conspired to make it more entertaining than ever, and no doubt even Padraig Harrington would have found it tricky to land on Connemara’s 19th Green! Musically, the reaction to the programme at this year’s Summerfest was the best ever. Bruce Foley and his band Guaranteed Irish travelled all the way from Pittsburgh, USA and received a huge welcome and warmth for their gigs. Roundstone native and legend Mickey Mac also pulled out all the stops with his Viking Invasion playing a fantastic blend of traditional Irish and folk tunes. Friday Night saw an intimate acoustic gig in Eldon’s Hotel with Nick Kelly (former front man of The Fat Lady Sings). Such was the reaction that it undoubtedly won’t be long until Nick is back for another show. Noelie McDonnell came all the way from Tuam and played one of the most uplifting gigs in Roundstone for a long time (anyone who starts a gig with an anthemic rendition of I Can See Clearly Now The Rain Has Gone deserves the massive acclaim he received!).

September 4, 2008

There was also a very strong local input to the music, something which the Summerfest organisers are keen to foster and are very proud of. Fiachra O’Regan organised a number of traditional gigs in conjunction with many young and up-and-coming stars of the future; Micky Martin and friends entertained the crowds with their great blend of music and a bit of craic thrown in. Michael Connelly, Richie Newman, John Walsh, Eamon McLoughlin, Mike Fahy, John Jo Forde, Marie Walsh and Some Like It Hot also played a huge part in the fantastic music that was on show. It was especially warming to see Noel Carroll back after an absence of a couple of years, and anyone who caught him this year really enjoyed his presence and the sparkle that he brings to proceedings. The Cow Plop and Culchie Competition also drew fantastic crowds. Mickey McLaughlin of Galway won the €500 for picking the correct square that the cow… “plopped” in! The Culchie Competition in its current guise will soon be rivalling the Rose of Tralee; competitors this year came from as far away as France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, England, Wales, USA, Australia, Canada and Norway! They were shown a fantastic time by Paddy and Brendan, and the Reindeer-Racing Segment even made the Scandinavians feel a little bit more at home! Newly crowned King of the culchies Mickey Mack (see photo) will represent Roundstone at the annual Culchie Festival on the October Bank Holiday Weekend in Kilnaleck, Co. Cavan. For more information go to www.culchiefestival.com. Roundstone Summerfest also undertakes a huge amount of fundraising on behalf of the RNLI. This year was no exception, and through bucket-collections, t-shirt selling, cows plopping and the hard work and sweat of a lot of people, the sum of €4,000 has been raised. Given the very challenging weather conditions, this was a fantastic result and brings the total of monies raised for charity by Roundstone Summerfest to over €40,000 since its inception. For more photos and reports from this years festival, log on to www.roundstonesummerfest.com. Simon Ashe

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Roundstone continued News from Richard de Stacpoole Tour de Bog The Tour de Bog, the family bike ride, started some 18 years ago with Ruari Quinn and family, Barry and Jackie Smyth and Robin Simpson. Eventually more and more friends were joining them, and as a result RDC was approached to take over this event because of insurance etc. Thank God RDC accepted as this has now become a popular event for Roundstone, with its social and fun side. Thanks to the originators of the Tour de Bog, it has now become one of the summer highlights of the year.This year there was a staggering 340 cyclists. Fund raising started in June to bring to the village of Roundstone, a Deﬁbrillator. Two to be exact, one to be placed in the lower part and one in the upper part of the village. One of them is placed with Seamus and Christina Lowry which we hope will serve the out skirts of the area. The Community of Roundstone played a major part in the start of this Project, raising €4,600. The Tour de Bog completed the last phase. The sum of €3,000 was raised on the day. Not only did it cover the t-shirts, but enough to raise the balance for the said machines, which was to be €5,250. Between local community and our visitors, the monies raised for this project, we did not have to ask any support from any government department, which makes it all the more sweet. We have done it our selves, so we appreciate everybody’s good will and generosity, and to all those that helped out on the day.

Concert In St Mary’s Church Saturday August 16th we had a lovely concert with the Corrib String Quartet in St Mary’s Church organized by Ted and Donna Sherwood, as a another fund raiser for the badly needed repairs, and was informed that just over €2,000 was collected. The Corrib String Quartet hail from Galway, they are principally a wedding quartet, and all their instruments is the violin and Viola, it was a wonderful mixture of music from Cole porter, Lennon and McCartney, Puccini and Irving Berlin, just to name a few.

Irish Nights

Well the summer season seems to be slowing down, with the ﬁnal Irish night last Wednesday, but what an ending to a packed House. The musicians were enhanced with our own All Ireland Champion on the Uilleann pipes Fiachra O’Regan, who incidentally was presented with a portrait of himself painted by Rosie McGurran. The whole program for the evening was recorded with Ann Conneely for the Connemara Community Radio, and with Mattie Joe Shermais for Radio na Gaelachata. Fiachra is having a well-earned celebration in Paddy Festie’s this coming Saturday September 6th, as, he says to ﬁll the cups. Fiachra has done so well with his musical persistence. Well done Fiachra! Christina asked me to thank all the volunteers who helped out with the Irish Night during the summer and a special thanks to all those that made sandwiches, brewed the tea, or helped to serve out a glass of wine on the last night.

was ideal. Johnny Sheehan was the man of the day, with his great organisation. Finally to end oﬀ the day, there was a disco with D.J Mike O’Malley for the adults at Eldon’s Hotel, what a great night that was. It was interesting to note that throughout the whole event there were very few visitors. The vast majority was local, which is exactly what the community games represents, so thanks to everybody who gave a helping hand. Photos: Splash the Roundstone Clown at the Community Games. Doing the limbo for the Community Games. Community Games Fun.

Champion of Champions Pony Show

CPR training will take place on the 20th September in the lower Community Hall from 2pm to 6pm. The cost will be €50 with a certiﬁcate, and various books. We have to date four volunteers, we still need ﬁve more to come forward. If any body else from Cashel, Ballyconneely, and Recess want to be instructed in CPR, just let me know, the people from other areas, all the better.

We are now getting close to one of the last big events of the year, 14th September, the Roundstone All Ireland Champion of Champions Connemara Pony Show. It will include the judging and sale of the all Ireland Black Face Connemara Rams which will be most interesting, as these rams are very impressive to look at, so just pray for another good sunny day.

Community Games Sunday August 31st saw the fourth year of the community games on the tennis courts. This year there were a few more diﬀerent activities for the kids and adults, such as the hole in one and splash the Roundstone clown. This was great fun- someone had to put their face through a hole on a big board, and the kids had three goes with wet sponges to throw at their face! Then we had the limbo, wheel of fortune, face painting and of course the sports. Mary Banotti and Chef Maurice Ryan presented medals at the B/Q stand. All in all, a very successful day, and the weather

Ferron Family On behalf of the community and of course myself, we would like to wish Róisín Ferron and Kevin Burke (who hails from Clonberne) the very best of luck for their forthcoming wedding day this coming Friday September 5th, at the Star of the Sea church. Congratulations to you both and we hope you will have a very happy life together.

CPR Training

McDonald Family A quick extraordinary fishy story- Frank Mc Donald and his son Niall with various grand children were on the Shannon on a boating trip for a few days recently making their way to Fermanagh to do some fishing. To their surprise, a large fish was hooked of enormous proportions. I am told it was a pike, which took some time to play. Now here is the not so funny part, no gaff or net, Frank grabbed the pike to bring it aboard. The bloody thing bit him and made quite a mess of the top part of his thumb. I had no idea they could be quite so dangerous! Anyway all is well with Frank, but not for the pike, I might add! You may remember Frank’s daughter Marion broke the record for the largest brown Trout on the Corrib a couple of years ago. Nothing like keeping these big fish catches in the family so to speak, but Frank- a trout is a much nicer fish!

SummerFest 2008 The lads who run the annual Fest, Thomas King, Simon Ashe and Mark Forsythe and friends, put a lot of time and eﬀort into the organisation of this event but nobody was prepared for the week-end of torrential rain that we witnessed.

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September 4, 2008

Sunday afternoon fared out the best and a lot of the events were crammed into that. The outdoor music had to be moved into the pubs over the weekend, therefore losing a bit of the atmosphere of what the Fest is all about. This year we saw an inﬂux of a much younger crowd who would not get served in the pubs but nevertheless got access to drink. What is the answer? The lads are doing a great job, bringing a lot of good folk back to the village for the weekend of festivities and fundraising for the great service that is the RNLI. Last year they made a donation of €10,000. The Guards should have played a bigger part in patrolling the village. Their presence would have put a stop to some of the goings on. Parents of young teenagers should know where their teenagers are and whose company they are in. If they are under 18 they most certainly should have to account for their movements. All concerned should sit down and discuss next year’s events with a lot more help from the community, anyway, well done to the lads for their eﬀorts.

FunFair The funfair, which moved in 10 days ago, has ﬁnally traveled on. Again this is something that will have to be discussed with the people of the village before permission to return next year is granted. They caused disruption to the events running in the hall i.e. the Irish night and the children’s workshop with the Knowlands, not to mention the loss of car parking space for the 10 days.

Community Hall The Lower hall is ﬁnally completed and looking fantastic. So we are looking forward to many events over the winter. The senior citizens can have their weekly get together, same with the youth club. We will also look forward to the talks from NUI, with hopefully many more events to come in the Community Hall.

Boat The village may be busy with cars, but we can say the same about the harbour. On Saturday morning we counted 30 ribs moored, and I think many of them went on an outing to the Aran Islands for a day trip. It is in the Roundstone Vogue at present to own a rib or a boat of some sort. It is such a shame that the government is not pulling their weight in getting us our Marina. We really need to look to the water for an increase in business within the village.

Water The water works is slowly making its way to the village, despite the hold ups and the disruption they are doing a good job, although traﬃc is ﬂowing slowly. The Cashel road caused some controversy by being closed. There are a few Cashel people working in Roundstone that have the extra journey twice a day. We feel that we are also missing out on some passing tourists who go straight into Clifden when they go on to the main Galway Rd. Why did they not use the lights like we have here in Roundstone? In that way at least after a little wait you get on your way. Richard De Stacpoole

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

Women’s Football

Conamara Ladies

The Conamara Ladies Football squad was honoured at the West Galway Association Development Draw at the Connemara Gateway Hotel on Saturday August 16th. The team received their Connacht Junior Championship Runner-Up Medals and Commemorative certiﬁcates and were presented their awards by Galway senior players Lorna Joyce (Clonbur) and Sinead Burke (Killanin). Conamara Captain Aisling Egan was recognised as the Player of the Connacht Junior Championship. Team manager Paul Gannon also received a special award in recognition of the team’s fantastic achievements in 2008. Photos (l-r): Sarah Conroy presents Aisling

Egan with her player of the Connacht Junior Championship special award. West Galway Ladies Football Development Association Treasurer Sarah Conroy presents Conamara manager Paul Gannon with a special award in recognition of the teams achievements in 2008. Some of the Conamara Squad who received

Strong Quarter Final Show from Coohill Grainne Mhaols player Lisa Coohill had an impressive game when she came on as a sub against Laois in the TG4 All-Ireland Women’s Senior Football quarter ﬁnal on Saturday August 9th in Longford. The former All Star joined the game at 23 minutes, and quickly made a massive impact on the run of play. Having struggled with injury issues in recent times, she displayed an impressive return to form. After just 3 minutes on the ﬁeld, she gained possession and blasted a cracking goal past the Laois keeper to put Galway ahead by 1-4 to 4. She then added another two points to the Galway tally in the second half, and contributed to a classy second half

Rugby

Connemara RFC

Connemara RFC are already preparing for what will hopefully be another exciting and entertaining year for the club. Thursday July 17th saw the ﬁrst pre-season training session with Connacht Captain Andrew Farley who will coach the Connemara forwards for the coming season. New additions to the club this year include Jason East and Frank Leonard. Jason is a member of the Connacht Rugby academy, and joins Connemara from Buccaneers. He plays prop forward. Hooker Frank Leonard is formerly of U.L. Bohemians. Last season’s recruits Troy Nathan, Aden Kelly and Bennie Bester will all return to the club for the forthcoming season, and another new player is expected to join from New Zealand in the coming weeks. Meanwhile Clifden’s John O Brien has

Connemara SportsView

their medals and certiﬁcates from Galway Senior Players. Back (l-r): Philomena Ní Fhaithearta, Sinead Egan, Aisling Egan, Áine Breathnach, Máire Cloherty. Front: Mairead Bhreathnach, Sinead Burke (Killanin), Lorna Joyce (Clonbur) and Helen Moran. Photos courtesy of Philip Smyth.

performance from the Galway side. The comprehensive 2-15 to 0-10 victory set up the Galway team for a semi-ﬁnal clash with Cork, but it was always going to be a tougher contest to beat the in-form Champions. Lisa started for the Galway side on August 23rd, but Cork eventually prevailed by 2-11 to 1-7 in their quest for a fourth successive title. Photos courtesy of Sportsﬁle.

been signed by Division One Club Buccaneers, where they are well aware that Connemara’s loss is their gain. The Westmeath Examiner reported that Senior Coach Tony Dolan regards the signing as somewhat of a coup. John is a current Connacht academy member who has represented Ireland at under-18 and under-19 levels, and was a member of Galway’s All-Ireland winning minor football team last year. He can play at full-back or at centre. “John O’Brien is a talented young lad and has lots of potential which we hope will come to the fore with Buccaneers. Obviously he has commitments with Connacht too, but we’re hopeful he’ll be available for most of the upcoming season,” he said. John will have local company at the club in Trevor Conneely from Ballyconneely, who played in the U-20 Irish side last year. Connemara easily defeated Monivea 30-0 in a pre-season match on Sunday August 24th, but were defeated by Corinthians 20-3 in the ﬁrst of three Connacht Senior League Fixtures on Saturday August 30th, where they led by 3-0 at half time. The two remaining Connacht Senior League Matches are on September 6th away to Galwegians and at home

to Buccaneers on Saturday September 13th. Connemara RFC will then begin this year’s AIL Division Three campaign on October 4th at home to Sunday’s Well. A full list of the year’s ﬁxtures, sponsorship details, membership details, photos and more can be found at the club’s website www.connemararfc.ie.

September 4, 2008

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Connemara Ladies 02/08/08 18 Hole Stableford. Sponsored by Belle Blu (Clifden). 1st: Ann O’Donoghue (30) Galway, 2nd: Margaret Lavelle (11) Athenry 36pts (B9), Gross: Maurethe Jackson (12) Milltown 23pts, 3rd Marilyn Kelly (26) Galway36pts. CSS 72 (36pts). 03/08/08 18 Holes 4Ball Betterball. Sponsored by Agnes Stokes & Deirdre Murphy. 1st: Deirdre Murphy (14) & Bridie Conneely (22) Connemara 39pts. 2nd:Mary O’Reilly (12) & Marie Bourke (30) Connemara 37pts (B9). 3rd: Therese O’Buachalla (13) Old Conna & Maurethe Jackson (12) Milltown 37pts. 06/08/08 18 Holes Stableford.1st: Frances Corless (36) Connemara 42pts. 2nd: Mary Sands (15) Connemara 40pts. Gross Zara O’Reilly (11) Castle 22pts. 3rd: Kathleen Burke (36) Connemara. CSS 72. 10/08/08 18 Holes v Par. Sponsored by Time Mark. 1st Zara O’Reilly (11) Castle.1up 2nd Julie Donnellan (17) Connemara Level (Back 9). Gross Sarah Faller (2) Galway -6. 3rd Anne O’Donoghue (28) Galway Level. 17/08/08 18 Holes Stableford. Sponsored by Celtic Crafts (Clifden). 1st: Deirdre Murphy (14) 34pts.2nd:Daire Coﬀey (33) 33pts. 3rd: Margaret Shaw (34) Connemara 32pts. (CSS 34pts). 20/08/08 18 Holes V Par 1st Grace Mullaly (30) Connemara 5up.2nd Helen Royliston (21) Galway 4up.3rd Ruth Shaw (36) Connemara 3up (B9) CSS 1up. 24/08/08 18 Holes V Par. Sponsored by Kinnegar Wines (Eilis Cryan). 1st: Treasa Ui Chartuir (26) Connemara 4up.2nd: Evelyn King (20) Connemara 1up. Gross Zara O’ Reilly (11) Castle 13down. 3rd:

Veronica Sanderson (35) Connemara Level. (CSS Level). 31/08/08 18 Holes Stableford, Sponsored by Seamus Kelly Butchers (Clifden).1st Ann Murphy (26) Oughterard 38pts.2nd Fionnuala Walsh (21) Milltown 36pts (back9). 3rd: Pat Dooley (21) Galway 36pts. CSS 71. 9 Holes Stableford (36 Club) 1st Eily Joyce (36) Connemara. Mens 10/08/08 18 Holes V Par, Sponsor: Time Mark, 1st: Eamonn O’Loughlin(10) 1up, 2nd :Terry Corcoran (13) level, Gross: John Mahon (10) 10 down, 3rd: Michael Fitzpatrick (17) level , CSS 1 down. 17/08/08 18 Holes Stableford, Sponsor: Mannion Meats, 1st: John Malone (9) 39pts, 2nd: Terry Forsyth (15) 36Pts, Gross: Tom O’Reilly (7) 29Pts, 3rd: Brian Foley (9) 35Pts CSS 35Pts 24/08/08 18 Holes V Par, 1st: Greg Rogan (16) 2up, 2nd: Cyril Joyce (11) 1up, Gross: Rory Sweeney (4) 4 down, 3rd: Killian Walsh (10) Level. CSS 1 down. 31/08/08 18 Holes Single Stableford, Sponsor: Mannion Lochrin & Co.,1st: Graham Roberts(14) 42pts , 2nd: Richard Moggio (16) 40 Pts, Gross: Gareth Anthony (6) 31pts, 3rd: Aidan Griﬃn (13) 38Pts. CSS: 36Pts.

Manager, Serena Guiheen and Winner Jerry Gore. 17/08/08 President’s Prize. President Carmel Morahan: 1st Cathal Jordan (5) 63 Nett. 2nd Michael H Walsh (11) 64 Nett.1st Gross Mairtin O’Cearra (5) 71 Gross. 2nd Gross: Sean O’Reilly (6) 72 Gross. 3rd Richie Lee (15) 65 Nett, 4th Frank Kyne (22) 66 Nett. 5th Ciaran O’Flatharta (9) 67 Nett (31.5b9). 6th Sean McHugh (27) 67 Nett (32.5b9). 7th Jim Carr (21) 67 Nett (32.5b9). 8th Michael Heaney (13) 67 Nett (35.5b9). 9th JJ Faherty (13) 67 Nett (35.5b9). 10th Tom Durkin (18) 67 Nett (36b9). CCS 70.

Oughterard 10/08/08 Intermediate and Junior Scratch Cup Sponsor: McCanns Supervalu,Moycullen. 1st Gross: Mike Walsh (11) 80(40B9). 2nd Gross: Pat McEvilly (11) 80(41B9). 3rd Colin Turke (14) 83 (42B9). 1st Net: Gerry Kelly (18) 69 Net. 2nd Net John MacAlinney (13) 71 Net (35.5B9). 3rd Padraic Murphy (15) 37.5B9). CSS 71. Junior Scratch Cup: 1st Gross: Gerry Gore (9) 72. 2nd Gross: Cathair Connelly (6) 75(36B9. 3rd Gross: Martin O’Cearra (5) 75(38B9).1st Net: Ger Cunningham (7) 69 Net. 2nd Net: Niall Faherty (6) 70 Net. 3rd Net Maurice Power (7) 71 Net. CSS 71. Photo: Winner of the Junior Scratch Cup (l-r): Captain Pat McEvilly, Sponors:Supervalu, HR

Photos: Cathal Jordan with President Carmel Morahan. Grace Morris with President Carmel Morahan Presidents Prize to the Ladies: 1st Grace Morris (16) 73(B9). 2nd Bridie Duane (34) 73. Gross: Bridget Walsh (17) 91. 3rd Kathleen Burke (30) 74. 4th Jodie Coughlan (23) 74. 5th Barbara Buckley (19) 76 (B9). 6th Laura Gore (16) 76 (B9). 7th Ursula Hernon (16) 76. Category 0-20. 1st Patricia Lee (19) 77. 2nd Marguerity Fallon (14) 70. 3rd Maire Ni Mhaille (15) 81. Category 21-28. 1st Betty Clancy (26) 77 (B9). 2nd Kathleen O’Connell (23) 77. 3rd Bridie Kennedy (22) 78. Category 29-36. 1st Bernie McTigue (36) 76. 2nd

Clifden Regatta This year, due to bad weather conditions, Clifden yachts raced for four days for the infamous ‘Clifden Cup’. We started on Saturday 16th but with winds blowing up to 40 knots, races were postponed until Sunday. The winds had died down quite considerably on Sunday when we actually started our first race, but by the time we had finished it had blown up again to about 35 knots. It was decided after this race that we would need to extend the regatta to achieve the minimum of three races. Over the next two weeks, with eight entries, we got in our three other races. Jackie Ward and crew on ‘Hallmark’ led the fleet all the way through the regatta on IRC and hadsecured the Clifden Cup by race 3. David Griffin on ‘Egalite’ won the Kingstown Cup for overall on Echo. Well done to all involved for persevering despite the terrible weather. Full results and details of boat club news and events can be found at www.clifdenboatclub.com. Bobbi O’Regan

Running Success

Congratulations to Noel King of Clifden who won the over 60’s category in the Streets of Galway 5 Mile Road

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Brenda Derham (35) 77. 3rd Eileen Dixon (28) 80. CSS 75 19/08/08 18 Hole Stableford. 1st Alan Deacy (15) 43 pts, 2nd Pascal McDonagh (12) 42pts, 3rd M. O’ Connor (G. Abbey) (19) 39pts, (21B9) 4th Jeﬀ rey Lee (11) 39pts, (19 B9)5th Vivian Noone (G. Abbey) (18) 38pts, (21B9) C.S.S 36 pts. 20/08/2008 C.S.S. Fourball Stableford. 1st Mary Molloy 13(10) & Kay Hayes 27(20) Score: 41. 2nd Rita Jordan 14(11) & Fionnuala Hackett 28(21) Score: 38 3rd Phil Kavanagh 21(16) & Bridie Kennedy 22(17) Score: 34. 4th Aine Bhreathnach 20(15) & Eileen Dixon 29(22) Score: 41. 24/08/08 1st Joe Donnelly (14) 41 pts. 2nd Ciaran O’Flatharta (9) 39 pts (21b9, 15b6) Gross: David Nash (5) 31 Gross pts. 3rd JJ Faherty (13) 39 pts (21b9, 14b6). Cat A (0-11) 1st Eugene Thornton (10) 39 pts (20b9) 2nd Gay Ryan (9) 35 pts (19b9) Cat B (12-17 1st John Morley (13) 38 pts. 2nd Padraid Conroy (17) 36 pts (21b9). Cat C (18+) 1st Richard O’Brien (19) 37 pts. 2nd Garry McDonagh (26) 36 pts. CSS 36 pts. Photo: Captain Pat McEvilly and Winner Joe Donnelly.

race on Saturday August 9th. Noel has been running for over 40 years, and was a founder member of the London Irish Athletics Club in 1969. We look forward to many more victories from Noel and wish him continued success.

26/08/08 Open Day Competition 18 Hole Stableford. 1st Chris Butler (7) 38 pts, 2nd Jones Ferriss (7) 35pts, (19B9) 3rd Hugh Walsh (3) 35pts, (17B9) 4th Richard McNamara (7) 34pts, C.S.S 34 pts. 27/08/2008 Ladies 18 Hole Stroke Competition: Galway Crystal C.S.S. 75 1st Niamh Keogh (14) 72(B9) , 2nd Ann Kavanagh (28) 72 Gross Bridget Walsh (16) 91 3rd Ruth Cunningham (28) 73 4th Bernie McTighe (36) 75 5th Peggy Blehein (24) 76(B9) 6th Alice Naughton (34) 76. 31/08/081st Jones Ferriss (7) 68 Nett (32.5b9), 2nd Michael O’Keane (5) 68 Nett (33.5b9), Gross Michael Darcy (4) 75 Gross, 3rd Matt Donoghue (15) 68 Nett (35.5b9). Cat A (0-10): Richard McNamara (7) 70 Nett, Cat B (11-17): Michael Walsh (11) 69 Nett, Cat C (18+): Kevin Thornton 6(23) 69 Nett (33.5b9). CSS 70 Nett. Photo: WinnerJones Ferriss with Captain Pat McEvilly.

Darts The Mikey Mullen and All the Souls of the Sea Memorial Cup Singles Darts Competition begins on Wednesday September 17th in aid of Clifden Lifeboats. Registration to play is at 7:30pm sharp on the evening of competition. The venues and dates are: Wednesday Sep 17th: Teach Daingean and D’Arcy Inn. Saturday Sep 20th: Tir Na Nóg. Sunday Sep 21st: Boat Club, Clifden Wednesday Sep 24th: Veldons and Keoghs. Sunday Sep 28th: Festy’s and Molly’s Wed Oct 1st: Rock Bar and Moran’s Sun Oct 5th: Pier Bar and Diamonds

September 4, 2008

Wed 8 Oct: Renvyle Inn and Gaynor’s Sun 12 Oct: Angler’s and Leavy’s All Heat Semi Finalists qualify for the Grand Final, which will take place at the Atlantic Coast Bar on Sunday October 19th, with registration at 3pm sharp on the day. 1st prize is the Memorial Cup Trophy and €200. 2nd is Trophy and €100, 3rd is Highest Checkout Trophy and €50. The All Heat Finalist Winners Trophy is presented on the Final Night.

Connemara SportsView

Clifden Pony Show Beneath a blue sky and sunshine, Clifden is about beauty and tradition. This, the 84th year of the annual Connemara pony show belonged to the Gorham family from Kingstown stud in Clifden, and Malachy Gorham’s eight year old mare Kingstown Dana by Monaghanstown Fionn out of Kingstown Silver, exhibited by his brother Joe, was awarded the Bank of Ireland Supreme Championship. Unfolding

in our midst was an odyssey of dreams and passion, that commenced sixty-one years ago in 1947 when Joe Gorham senior attended his first show at Clifden, In 1991 he won the championship with Belle of the Ball and later with his wife Annie, Joe bought the wonderful foundation mare Silver Fort who was foaled at Aras an Uachtairan. In addition to several champions, she produced Dana’s Dam Kingstown Silver and the 1991 Clifden champion Rocky. Aged 33, she died a few months ago in the same field where she lived her life, and left her great legacy at Kingstown. As the judges gave the nod in favour of Dana, it generated impulsive applause from the huge crowd at the ringside, as they witnessed three generations of people and ponies. An emotional Joe junior hugged the champion “to day is something we can never forget, it is just beyond words ”he said. Awarded reserve supreme champion was Eamon Burke’s stallion, and current Dublin champion Currachmore Cashel, exhibited by his son Joseph from Castlegar in Galway who also received the Mullen cup for the best visiting pony at the show. The junior champion comes from a bloodline that is precious to Ireland. The judges awarded the sash to Dymphna O’Brien from Oughterard with the two-year-old homebred colt Clooshgreen Prince by Frederiksminde Hazy Match out of Emloughan Beauty by Aran Flight out of Noel Sweeney’s Irishtown Beauty, who has proved herself a prolific dam line for both mares and stallions. Padraic Hynes from Canal Stage and John Joe Bolton from Scariff commenced judging the young stock at 8.30 am. For openers, Seamus Keady from Spiddal produced a true traditional dun colt, Shanna Larry, (El Larry- Skousboe Shamrock) who moved like a dream and held his place at the top of the line ahead of council member Cailin Conneely with Letterdyfe Rira, Geoff rey Heanue was awarded third for his nice colt Derrylough Dan. Peter Molloy from Claddaghduff presented his quality bay yearling filly, Dooneen Starlight (Silver Shadow-Dooneen Castle) in peak condition, a true example of quality and presence, she moved up a place to snatch the red rosette from Roger Bradys Vinnura Leona (Fairyhill TomboyVinnura Lola)

Connemara SportsView

The two-year-old mares, looked like a vintage year as quality dominated. Henry O’Toole’s Castle Jewel (Frederiksminde Hazy Match-Castle Urchin) was best ahead of Peter Molloy’s Dooneen Stephanie Rose by Hazy Match and his great brood Jennifer Rose, with Gearoid Curran’s Glencarrig Rose (Coosheen Stormboy-April Rose) in third. Pat and Mary Rabbitt from Monaghanstown stud in Castletowngeoghegan maintained their good reputation at Clifden, taking the three year old mare class with last years Roundstone junior champion Beech Honey (Monaghanstown Boy-Beech Girl) bred by Paddy McCormack in Athlone. Michael and Deirdre Holmes from Goulane, Clifden collected second prize with the well-coupled filly Blackforest Vivienne (Frederiksminde Hazy MarvelPatty’s Vanity Fair). The three-year-old colt Coolillaun Cuushlawn (Currachmore Cashel-Glencarrig Aishling) exhibited by Joseph Burke from Castlegar looked the part with his movement and presence and deserved his red rosette plus the reserve junior championship, and Mullen cup for the best visiting pony at the show. In the class Patrick Joyce from Castlebar was awarded second prize with Maghera Fadda Lad (Rynn Richard-Lettercallow Lady) who won at Clifden last year. The stallions, as usual, provided the large crowd with some nice ponies. Currachmore Cashel duly won this class for the third time ahead of Michael Igo’s well balanced and quality Frederiksminde Hazy Merlin (Hazy Dawn-Oxenholm Movie Star) with former Clifden junior champion Inverin Rocky owned by Sean Faherty from Spiddal placed third. A very popular winner of the four and five year old mares was Vinnura Lola (Drymills Bridgeboy-Cloonboy Lady) owned by Roger and Laura Brady from Claremorris who are seen at shows all over Ireland throughout the season, Olivia Staunton’s. The six or seven year old mare class produced some of ‘the best in the west’. Ronan Francis Mullen from Moyard in Galway was awarded first with Lakeside Lassie by Streamstown Larry and Hilltop who held off a strong challenge from Malachy Gorhams Lemonfield Lass, and Padraic and Nicola Heanue’s Grange Ruby Surf. The Mullen family from Roundstone had plenty of support in the ten to fifteen year old mares section, Independent (Murphy Rebel-Gorteen Star) owned by Cathal, and exhibited by Brian Mullen took the spoils from Gearoid Currans April Rose. The sixteen year old and over mares was a chip ‘off the old block’as Eddie Madden’s Gloves Misty Queen by Abbeyleix Fionn out of triple Clifden winner Gloves Misty held her place ahead of Padraic & Nicola Heanue’s Castle Cailin Ard (Rocky-Castle Dame). The progeny class saw the return of last year’s champion Henry O’Toole’s Castle Urchin who looked every bit a champion and was a proud mum with her daughter Castle Jewel and son Castle Admiral. Briget Snow from Bog Road Clifden produced her great old friend Whitegate Joy looking a picture as she proudly received her red rosette. Alex and Mary Humble came from Southampton to win the gelding class with the Joe Gorham bred Kingstown Barney. Breda Horan and Joe McNamara judged the foals, and awarded the championship to Eddie Fleming from Moate who flew the Midland flag with his strong colt by Monaghanstown Prince and Gneevebrack Belle exhibited in the

September 4, 2008

championship by John Moran from Tubber. Jackie Walsh from Rosmuc took the filly foals with a well coupled grey by Linsfort Barney and Owens Coral Lady. Judged second was Feichin and Kerry King’s Bunowen Castle Johnny.Fox. Mister What, ridden by Elizabeth Lyons from Naas, Co Kildare was the ridden champion on Thursday while the working hunter championship on Friday had many top performers. Judged champion was Lady Hemphill’s Tulira Katie Daly, outstanding in her group. She was ridden to perfection by Emma Craven from Headford. Great credit must go to the office staff, stewards Sean Heanue and Michael Philbin and the Curran brothers, Gearoid and Kieran, they did a superb job all day. There were many winners and losers, but two third prizes were special, It was nice to see James Naan from Newtownbutler, Co Fermanagh in the ribbons with a fine two-yearold dun colt Galloon Ceol. James contributes much of his time promoting the pony in his neck of the woods, likewise the legendary Bobby Bolger looked fitter than ever as he trotted out Coral Misty’s Ciara, and finished third in the three year old mare class. On Wednesday, a lovely presentation of Connemara ponies in their different roles was staged at the Showgrounds. A most informative commentary by Emer McNamara gave the visitors an insight into the versatility of the breed and perhaps the society should consider a parade through the street next year. The showdown at the Station House was as always a great success and those with stamina and staying power danced the night, and another year at Clifden away. Ruth Rogers Photo by Andrew Downes

August Pony Sales The annual August Connemara Pony Sales at Clifden Livestock Sales took place as usual the day after the Clifden Connemara Pony Show, on Friday the 22nd. The sales yard was full to capacity with buyers, sellers and onlookers from every corner of the globe. There were 298 lots catalogued which included ponies from the UK, notable among which was a mare belonging to the well known race horse trainer Henrietta Knight which sold for €7,000. The highest price of the day was paid for Fairyhill Fort, a 5 year old Class 1 registered Connemara Stallion, which was sold to Finland for €12,000. He is by the well known stallion, Monaghanstown Fionn, and has been a proliﬁc prize winner in the show ring for his previous owners. Broodmares were once more very much the order of the day and prices fetched averaged between €7,000 and €11,000, with a sizeable number of mares changing hands on the day. Well known buyer, Bob Sweeney from Ballina, who is always on the lookout for nice quality riding ponies, purchased 22 ponies on the day which ranged in price from €2,900 to €5,500. Many of those purchased by him are bound for Sweden. Of the 298 ponies catalogued 247 lots went through the ring with 167 changing hands on the day. The next catalogue sales of Connemara Ponies in Clifden will take place over 5 days from Thursday the 23rd of October to Monday the 27th, 2008. Entries are now being taken and as there is a huge demand for entry forms it is recommended that you enter early. Forms can be downloaded or you can enter on-line at www.connemaraponysales.com or contact Padraic at 095 21861. Padraic Heanue

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Fantastic 46th Oughterard Show

Saturday 30th August arrived with some fog and a little light drizzle, but turned out to be a most pleasant day for the start of the Oughterard Show’s week-end events and the International Connemara Pony Performance Championships with a large number of entrants as well as nine ponies from the UK. We were honoured to have with us two top judges, Matthew Lawrence and Jackie Webb, who had previously judged at the Horse of the Year Show and at Olympia. On the following day, throngs of enthusiastic spectators, keen to take advantage of the unexpected summer sunshine, headed for the Corribdale Grounds where ponies, sheep, cattle, dogs, pets, horses, donkeys, vintage cars and machinery were exhibited. From an early hour the stewards of the Dog and pet sections were busy dealing with over a hundred entries, which was by far the best ever seen to date. The cattle section was also one of the most successful held in recent times with well over eighty entries of first class livestock. The event, professionally organised by the local IFA branch members, had been relocated to a new area of the GAA grounds where, with the help of a rare sunny day it turned out to be a wonderful spectacle for the large crowd attending the show. Mr Pat Egan of Strokestown, Co Roscommon, who was the Judge on the day, had his skills well tested with as many as fourteen exhibits to choose from in some classes. The event concluded with a most interesting demonstration given by Mr Egan on how to prepare an animal for show purposes. The organisers wish to thank all sponsors as well as those who gave of their time to set up and run the event. There was great interest in our first Farmers’ Sheep Dog competition which was confined to farmers from Connemara. It was good to see ten dogs competing for first prize.

Competition was strong in the ponies section with more than twenty entries in some classes and huge increase in the number of foals on show. A total of fourteen ponies took part in the 25th Power’s Quarry International Performance Championship for the Cannonball Perpetual Challenge Cup, the winner being Blackwood Fernando with Alicia Devlin Byrne in the saddle, and just ahead Elaine Creaven on Tulira Katie Daly for the second year in a row. The Championship was preceded by a special event to mark the 25th anniversary when special medals were presented to all past winning owners and riders. Entries in the Donkey section were up by 100% and the classes here were followed by a Donkey Derby which was the first to be held for several years. Nuala Ni Chonaire scooped the top prize in the Best Dressed Lady Competition and went away carrying a fine leather handbag from Leather World, and wearing a diamond necklace kindly donated by Central Jewellers in Moycullen. The Mature Lady prize, sponsored by the Design House in Barna and the Abbeyglen Hotel and Spa in Clifden, went to Bríd Ridge while the winners of Little Mister and Little Master Oughterard were brother and sister, Brian and Maebh Walsh. The Best Dressed Teenager was Maeve Larney who had travelled all of the way Co. Louth. There was no shortage of entertainment with live music by the Kane sisters from Renvyle as well as four piece band, Allela, and a few good songs from Jim Walsh. Queues quickly gathered for the hook-a-duck competition as the mini digger drivers tried their skill at removing the ducks from the pond in record time. What a pity that one over enthusiastic competitor managed to damage the liner so that a permanent supply of water was needed to keep the ducks afloat. The result was major chaos in the tea tent when water was needed to quench the thirst of those who arrived for tea or coffee! In the Community Centre the Domestic

Arts section was again a great success with attendance well up on last year and lots of interesting displays for those who chose to leave the sunshine and venture indoors. Leslie Lyons PRO Oughterard Show

Oughterard In-hand Results

Yearling filly: qualifier for All Ireland championship at Clonaslee-1, Thomas Mullen’s Garraunbawn Lady, by Glendine Kestral-Hilltop. Yearling colt or gelding: Kieran McGrath’s Glencarrig Romeo, by Bunowen Bobby-Fairyhill Helen. Yearling filly: Thomas Mullen’s Garraunbawn Lady, by Glendine Kestral-Hilltop. Two year old colt: Patrick McGrath’s Lucky Rebel, by Currachmore Cashel-Lucky Mavourneen. Two year old filly- qualifier for two year old All Ireland championship at Ballinasloe: Pat O’Neill’s Illaunurra Heather, by Silver Shadow-Illaunurra Mist. Three year old colt: Raymond Conneely’s Bay Shadow, by Silver Shadow-Twan Ballinvoucher. Three year old mare: Peter Molloy’s Dooneen Alice, by Hazy Match-Jennifer Rose. Junior Champion: Dooneen Alice Reserve:Illaunurra Heather. Filly foal: John Joe O’Neill’s, by Caherlistrane Robbie-Silver Gillian. Colt foal: Tom Burke’s by Coosheen Stormboy-Bright Star. Champion foal: Tom Burke. Reserve: John Joe O’Neill Best filly/colt foal owned by resident of Oughterard: Mary Nee’s by Gwenic de Goariva– Mountain Primrose. Four year old mare: Jarleth & Joanne Grogan’s Mountain Heather, by Laerkens Cascade

Dawn-Mountain Lady. Smaller type pony: Bridget Snow’s Whitegate Joy, by Windy Day-Sheen Lass. Bay mare class: Pat O’Neill’s Illaunurra Heather, by Silver Shadow- Illaunurra Mist. Five to ten year old mare without foal at foot: Patrick Curran’s Glencarrig Maria, by Glenvalley Grey-Glencarrig Aedin. Five to ten year old mare with foal at foot: Dermot Dunne’s Fairyhill Morning Mist, by Fairyhill Tomboy-Kingstown Molly 2nd. Eleven to nineteen year old mare without foal: Patrick King’s Pride of the West, by Slisenoir-Silver Lady. Eleven to nineteen year old mare with foal at foot: Gearoid Curran’s April Rose, by Streamstown Larry-Errisbeg Dolly. Mare twenty years and over: Grace Maxwell Murphy’s Lakeside Lady, by Abbeyleix Fionn-Kits Bay. Mare owned by resident of Oughterard parish: John Tierney’s Tia, by New Beginning-Nessa. Stallions: Seamus Keady’s Skousboe Morning Rock, by Hazy Dawn-Frederiksminde Mellow. (See photo) Champion of the show: Skousboe Morning Rock Reserve: Glencarrig Maria Connemara gelding two years and over shown in hand: Elizabeth Lyons’ Mr What by Village KingMeadow Harp.

FAI Summer Soccer Sc hool West Coast UTD hosted the FAI Summer Soccer School at Tullycross from August 18th to 22nd. This was the 7th year West Coast have hosted the camp and this was also the most successful with over 80 kids from ages 7 – 15 taking part. While the focus at the camp is on the fun side of football, the highly qualiﬁed FAI coaches imparted loads of tips and knowledge on how the beautiful game should be played. Each day had its special focus from passing, dribbling and shooting skills to heading and ball control, ﬁnishing with games after lunch. Judging by the tired legs and bodies on Friday, it seems everyone had a great time and we look forward to seeing them all again next summer. A special word of thanks for all the FAI Coaches who made the camp so enjoyable and successful for everyone. The head coach for the week was Damon Kearney from Roscommon. Damon is a rising star with Longford Town FC and one of the brightest young coaches in the FAI. The oldest group, the over 12’s were coached by John Hannon, another Roscommon man. John is widely regarded as the top coach in his county. Johnny Carrol from Mervue Utd has a wealth of experience in the game and his energy was just incredible. Aoife Burke is a member of the Galway ladies soccer team and she worked

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with Colm Cassidy-McDonagh coaching the younger kids at the camp. Diarmuid Keady from our near neighbours and rivals MacDara’s coached with the 10’s and 11’s. The kids all want Diarmuid back next year as this group had so much fun and improved a lot during the week. Local FAI qualiﬁed Coaches Lucy Lydon and Joachim Lydon also worked with the groups during the week and hopefully some more local coaches will be involved next year. West Coast Utd would like to thank all the parents who brought the kids to camp each day. A very big thank you goes to all of the kids for their participation and a special mention to the kids from outside of the locality who attended and added to the success of the week. The challenge now is for the club to keep these young players in the game and playing soccer with a smile on their faces. This year there were 23 girls at the camp and they were all brilliant, so next year we want at least 30 girls at the Summer Camp. Finally a thank you to the local press for helping advertise the Summer Schools for helping advertise the event. To the Connemara View, Connemara Community Radio and all the shops and businesses where we put posters. Story and photos courtesy of Joachim Lydon Local Co-ordinator FAI Soccer Schools

September 4, 2008

CONNEMARA SportsView

31st Clifden Arts Week September 18th-28th

Beginnings & Endings 18 September

Oﬃcial Opening of Arts Week by Dr. Martin Mansergh, Minister of State at the Department of Finance and at the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism. Elected to the Dail in May 2007, he was former Head of Research for Fianna Fail and Special Advisor to An Taoiseach. His books include ‘The Legacy of History, and the Memoirs of Senator Joseph Connolly co-written with Joseph Connolly. Great night of music, song and dance with John Gerard Walsh, Marie Walsh, Richie Newman, Eileen O’Malley, Eamon Mc Loughlin and Ellen Mc Donagh. West Connemara Leisure Centre, 8pm.

Brendan Collins, Baritone, conductor David Brophy. €20, concessions €18. West Connemara Leisure Centre, 8pm. Fergal Scahill (Fiddle, Guitar, Mandolin) and Micky Martin (Vocals, Irish Harp, Bouzouki, Low D Whistle). J. Conneely’s Bar, 9pm. Niwell Tsumbu & Eamon Cagney. €8. Mullarkey’s, 10pm. Stewart Agnew. €8. Guy’s Bar, 10pm. Music with The Evergreens. M D’Arcy Bar, 10pm. D

‘N ‘Notes from Home’, double-album launch by lod cal singer-songwriters Aidan ca Ward (Stones) and Paul W Mulligan (Angels and HeartM aaches) with a host of other guests. (Photo left : Aidan g Th Ward) Station House Theatre, 10pm.

27 September

20 September

Grand Finale Parade: A celebration in the streets with the fabulous spectacle of our end of week parade and fireworks display. including this year a stunning aerial performance from the incredible Fidget Feet Aerial Dance Company, also including Shanbo Eire. The magnificent talents of the students from our local primary and secondary schools joined by many of our local groups must be seen! An army of wonderful and tireless volunteer workers makes it all possible. The night will reach its climax with our mind-boggling fireworks display over the quay and the town. The Square, 8pm.

Music workshop with Marie Walsh, past pupil and multi-award winning musician. €5. Central, 10am. Mark Keane will perform from the works of Oliver Messiaen, perhaps the greatest composer for the organ since Bach, in this his centenary year. €8. Church of Ireland, 1pm. Music session with Fiachra O’Regan and friends. Tom King’s Bar, 3:30pm. Trad music with Sean Halpenny, Michael Carey, Aidan Curran and Phil Coyne E.J. King’s, 4:30pm. Concert with Lunfardia, featuring the music of Buenos Aires. Tangos and Milangos from South America. €10. Station House Theatre, 8pm.

Music & Dance 18 September

Some Like it Hot’ with Eithne & Richard. Atlantic Coast, 10pm.

19 September A Night of Traditional Sean-Nós Dancing. Dancers include the Cunningham Family, Devaney Family, Colm Learai Family, Hopkin Family, Hernon Family, John Joe Geraghty, Maire Aine Ni Iarnon, Tom Moran, Risteard MacAodha, Roisin Ni Mhainin, Patricia Ni Fhartharta, Aine Marie Ronan, Emma O’Sullivan, Clare and Collette King, Seosamh O Neachtain not to be missed! €10 Alcock and Brown Hotel, 10pm. Niwel Tsumbu and Eamon Cagney. (See photo) Raised on the traditional Soukous and Rhumba music of his Congolese homeland, Niwel Tsumbu began playing from an early age, and went on to study both oth jazz and classical guitar. Niwel is currently working with percussionist Eamonn Cagney. Having studied Guinean and Irish percussion, Cagney worked intensively in Ghana with members of the ‘Kake Ensemble’ and brings an instinctive understanding of Niwel’s musical vision-together they have what has been described as a ‘unique meeting of minds’. E.J. King’s, 4pm. ‘Golden Oldies of Opera and Operetta’. Concert with the RTE Concert Orchestra. The concert will include pieces from ‘The Barber of Seville’, ‘Traviata’, ‘Don Giovanni’, ‘Porgy and Bess’, ‘Carousel’, ‘The Pirates of Penzance’, ‘Carousel’ and others. The soloists will be Majella Cullagh, Soprano and

Connemara ArtsView

perform Mozart Requiem with Mark Keane on organ and conducted by Maire Ni Dhuibhir. €8. Church of Ireland, 11pm. Invoke. Graphics and film blended in VJ style by Jym Daly (Loop Guru), who provides the eclectic pulsing music behind the eastern scales of Indi Kaur, the lyrical punch bowl of inventive rapper and singer ‘Baba Shakespeare’ with special guests. €10, Mullarkey’s Bar, 11:30pm.

21 September Coﬀee morning in aid of Mental Health Association. Betty and the Baby Boomers - Betty Boomer, Jean Mc Avoy, Paul Rebeo and Stevee Stanne.

(See photoo right). They return with th their th i lovely, l l robust b t and d stirring ti i melodies, singing songs inspired by their work with Pete Seeger in New York State’s Hudson Valley. €5. Foyle’s Hotel, 11:30am.

Aslan with Christy Dignam, lead vocals; Tony Mc Guinness, bass guitar; Alan Downey, drums; Billy Mc Guinness guitar and vocals and Joe Jewell guitar,, backing vocals. (See photo right) €15. :30pm. Clifden Town Hall, 8:30pm. Fergal Scahill and Micky Martin J. Conneely’s, 9pm. L’Attisée. Sophie Lavoie (fiddle, voice), Stéphanie Gagnon (fiddle, voice) and Pierre- Antoine Gauthier (guitar, podorythmie). Songs, reels and original music all coloured with the traditional music of Québec and Ireland. Mullarkey’s Bar, 10pm. Music with John Joe Forde and Mike Fahey. Vaughan’s Bar, 10:30pm. Concert with Cantoiri Chonamara, performing Mozart by Moonlight, (Director Aodhan Mc Glynn) will

September 4, 2008

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Music & Dance continued

Concert: Thomas Moore – My Gentle Harp. A concert featuring the glorious melodies including ‘The Ministrel Boy’, ‘The Meeting of the Waters’, ‘Believe Me if all Those Endearing Young Charms’ and ‘The Last Rose of Summer’, beautifully interpreted by Ireland’s finest young vocalists with one of Ireland’s leading pianists Una Hunt. €8. Church of Ireland, 1pm. Concert with composer and artist Bernard O’Scanaill. €5. Church of Ireland, 3:30pm. Jazz Piano Extravaganza with Colm ‘Stride’ O’Brien paying tribute to the great composers including Chopin, Gershwin, Fats Waller and Scott Joplin. €5. Rock Glen Hotel, 5pm. Gloria, a musical journal with Tim Thurston of Lyric radio who has brought a huge treasury of sacred music to our airwaves for over 10 years. €8. Church of Ireland, 6pm. Betty & the Baby Boomers. Station House, 6:30pm. Francophone singer-songwriter Denise Dallaire writes songs like she would write a poem. Her music plants itself in arabesque on the words she sings. J.Conneely’s, 6:30pm. Fergal Scahill and Micky Martin J. Conneely’s, 9pm Trad Connections: (See photo below) Martin Tourish, aaccordion (winn ner of the TG4 G Gradam award), H Hugh Buckley, g guitarist, Liz C Coleman, fiddle, D Dave Flynn guita tar and mandolin jo joined tonight by C Ciaran Swift on g guitar, banjo and m mandolin. €10 Alcock and Brown Hotel, 10pm. Traditional music with Ardvarna - Gerry D’Arcy, Pat Conneely and Denis Geogeghan. Keogh’s Bar, Ballyconneely, 10:30pm.

22 September Steve Stann and friends. Steam Coﬀee House, 5pm. The Border Collies. The Sligo-based band have been compared to The Bothy Band and Planxty, having a

ssimilar interpretation of the muta ssic and blend of instruments. The in band is Colm O’ b Donnell, Declan D Payne, Theresa P O’Grady, Shane O Mc Gowan, M Maria Lynn and M Siobhan O’Donnell. (See photo above). €10. Alcock and Brown Hotel, 10pm. Peter Byrne & the Glass Onion Band. Griﬃn’s Bar, 10pm.

23 September Betty and the Baby Boomers. Walsh’s Bakery and Coffee Shop, 4:30pm. Pianist Philip Martin. Pieces by Chopin, Henri Herz, Louis Moreau Gottschalk and Philip’s own Prisms (2007). €15. Church of Ireland, 8pm. Country sensation Mike Denver and band. Mike’s new single, the original ‘Everyday is a beautiful day’ co-written by Shay Healy has just been released. €15. Alcock and Brown Hotel, 10pm. Aidan Reid and Band. Griﬃn’s Bar, 10pm. Betty and the Baby Boomers. Abbeyglen, 11pm.

24 September Guitar Recital: Redmond O’Toole. (See photo right) O’Toole was the first to adapt to Paul Galbraith’s new groundbreaking technique and instrument; he plays an 8-string ‘Brahms guitar’ in the cello position connected to a special resonating box. He has performed a number of major Concerti with Orchestra and has collaborated with many performers including the Chi Chieft ftains i and d Elizabeth Eli b th Cooney. He has been selected as the National Concert Hall’s ‘rising star’ for 2009. €5. Clifden Library, 1pm. Betty & the Baby Boomers. Clifden Support Centre, 1:30pm. Micky Martin, Mick McNamara and friends. The Square, 2pm. The Dixie Micks. The Square, 2pm. Betty and the Baby Boomers. €5. Cullen’s Bistro, 4:30pm. Concert with Zoë Conway, fiddle and John McIntyre, guitar. ‘Mainly Irish traditional, but touching also on jazz, bluegrass and classical.’ €12. Station House Theatre, 10pm. Betty and the Baby Boomers. Lowry’s Bar, 10pm. The Lazy Blues Band. Guy’s Bar, 10pm. Aidan Reid and Band. Griﬃn’s Bar, 10pm. L’Attisée. J.Conneely’s, 10pm. Noelie Mc Donnell and band. (See photo above) €5, Mullarkey’s Bar, 10:30pm. Jazz with Les Follies. Arts week welcomes our great friends back from France. Playing exclusively New Orleans Jazz in the pure tradition. Featuring Alan Kelly,Francis Guero, Alain Fouga, Bernard Brimeur, Jean Dufour, Jacques Silvert and Francois Cotin. Their instruments include trombone, trumpet, banjo, doublebass, clarinet and drums. Abbeyglen Castle Hotel, 11pm.

25 September Escale Dedale. The trio from Finistère in Brittany come back to Clifden with guest Armenian musician Vasken Solakian for a unique blend of world music and songs. With instruments as diverse

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September 4, 2008

as the sanza, the shakuhachi, the ‘ud, the buzuk, the bombard, they share their own traditions as well as their own compositions. €12 . Mullarkey’s Bar, 9pm. Traditional Sean-Nos evening. Honouring the great tradition. With Proinsias NicDhonncha and Tomas O’Flaithearta, and this year featuring among many others Joe Steve O’Neachtain, Roisin Ni Mhainin, Johnny Mhairtin Learrai Mac Dhonncha, Treasa Ni Mhaoilain, Eibhlin Ni Conghaile, Roisin Elsafty and Johnny Connolly. €10, Ardagh Hotel, 10pm. L’Attisée. J.Conneely’s, 10pm. Jazz with Les Follies. Station House Hotel, 10:30pm. Blues night with singer/songwriter Sharon Murphy. (See photo below). Sharon comes from Clifden. Her m music could be d described as Ir Irish-soul-folk m music with reggae in uences, due to infl S Sharon’s Caribb bean heritage. €8, A Atlantic Coast H Hotel, 10:30pm. Griffin’s 10 Music in Griffi n’s Bar Bar. Griffin’s Griffin’s Bar Bar, 10:30pm.

26 September Jazz with Les Follies. E.J. King’s, 4:30pm. The West Awake. Cora Smyth, fiddle, low whistle; Breda Smyth, fiddle, whistles, low whistles; Pauline Scanlon, vocals; and Donogh Hennessy, guitar. Sisters Cora and Breda from Co. Mayo have both toured the world with Michael Flately’s shows but it was in Galway City that they met Donogh and Pauline, both from Dingle, Co. Kerry. Donogh, one of the founder members of Irish supergroup Lúnasa, is a much sought after guitarist on the contemporary trad scene. Meteor award nominee Pauline Scanlon’s highly-acclaimed debut album ‘Red Colour Sun’ also displayed a healthy disregard for musical boundaries, but it’s her voice that lingers in the mind. €12. Church of Ireland, 10pm. Blues with Rob Strong and band. Ireland’s legendary blues and soul vocalist. (See photo right). €8, Mullarkey’s Bar, 10pm. Canadian Bluegrass with Hungry Hill, a contemporary, acoustic bluegrass unit with a focus on original material. €8, Mannion’s Bar, 10pm. The 2K’s. D’Arcy Bar, 10pm. nal Irish Music with father and Homegrown Traditional daughter team John G Walsh, Marie Walsh and friends. Lowry’s Bar, 10pm. Jazz with Les Follies. Tom King’s Bar, 10:30pm.

27 September Open-Mic. Annual musicians and writers get together chaired by poet and teacher Gabriel Fitzmaurice. Participants will include Martin Conroy, Brian Smeaton, John Gerard Walsh, Marie Walsh, Tom Healy, John Dunne, Tommy Kenny, Michael Coady, Tony Curtis , Thomas Lyden, Maurice O’Scanaill. €5. Foyle’s Hotel, 12pm. Triocca. (See photo below). Riona O’Duininn, flute; Nancy Johnson, viola and Geraldine O’Doherty, harp. P Performing w works by A Arnold Bax, H Hamilton H Harty, Faure, Z Zabel and the Ir Irish Premiere o of ‘Beyond the D Dark’. €10. C Church of Ir Ireland, 1pm.

Connemara ArtsView

27 September continued Jazz with Les Follies. Foyle’s Hotel, 3:30pm. Traditional music with Joanne O’Connor: banjo, fiddle, piano; Seamus Meehan, piano, accordion with Mary Corcoran on fiddle and piano. E.J. King’s, 4pm. Cois Cladaigh Chamber Choir. The mixed voice chamber choir specialises in European music from the late 15th and early 16th centuries and also performs a formidable repertoire of contemporary choral music, particularly from Ireland. The choir was a multiple winner at the Cork International Choral Festival in 2007. €10. Church of Ireland, 6pm.

Rob Strong with his band Outdoors on the Rig. The Square, 9pm. Traditional Music: Joanne O’Connor, Mary Corcoran, and Seamus Meehan. Central Hotel, 10pm. Jazz with Les Follies. Griﬃn’s Bar, 10pm. Dave Sheridan and friends. Vaughan’s Bar, 10pm. Grand Finale h Concert with Blues singer,, Miranda Rosenberg (See photo right). and her band. €10, Alcock and Brown, 11:45pm.

28 September ber One for the Road. This year’s guests for the final concert are Joanne O’Connor –banjo, fiddle and piano; Mary Corcoran – fiddle and piano and Seamus Meehan in piano and accordion. €5, Foyle’s Hotel, 12:30pm. Killary Sound. D’Arcy Bar, 10pm. Garrett Wall & Band. (See photo below).

Garrett Wall, singer-songwriter, native Dubliner and Madrid resident, presents his latest album ‘Sky Pointing’. The unusual format – buzzing with the brilliant dynamic of the four members – guitar, trumpet, bass and cajón (flamenco box drum) is powerfully well-rounded: intimate, through the use of the cajón yet sharply defined by the trumpet. All of which provides a crafted platform for Wall’s soaringly lyrical voice. Mullarkey’s Bar, 10:30pm.

Words

18 September Poetry reading by Jarlath Fahy whose book, ‘The Man Who Was Haunted by Beautiful Smells’ was recently published by Wordsonthestreet Press. €5 Clifden Library, 4:30pm.

Connemara ArtsView

‘A Guide to Connemara’s early Christian Sites’ by Anthony Previté will be launched by archaeologist and author Michael Gibbons. Foyle’s Hotel, 5:30pm. (See review next page).

19 September A Showcase Reading by Galway Arts Centre’s Advanced Poetry Workshop. (Facilitator Kevin Higgins). Readers include Lorna O’Shaughnessy, author of ‘Torching the Brown River’ , Mary Madoc, winner of the 2008 Hennessy Award for Poetry, Mary Mullen and Des Kavanagh. €5 Clifden Library, 1pm. ‘The Sea and the Shore’- Derek Mahon’s water music. Talk by Hugh Haughton. Author of ‘The Poetry of Derek Mahon’. Dr Haughton is Professor of English and related Literature at the University of York and his previous books include ‘The Letters of T.S.Eliot’ , which he co-edited with Valerie Eliot. €5 Clifden Library, 4pm. Reading by novelist and short-story writer Carlo Gebler from his just published book, ‘My Father’s Watch’, written with Patrick Maguire.€8 Station House Theatre, 6pm.

20 September Creative Writing Workshop with poetin-residence, Tony Curtis. €5 Foyle’s Hotel, 10am. ‘Something of Myself’, a talk by author and journalist Mary Kenny. Mary Kenny talks about life and writing in Dublin and London. €10. Station House Theatre, 11:30am. Book Launch: ‘Love in a Time of Broken Heart-Healing from Within’, by Benig Mauger, will be launched by journalist and author John Waters. A discussion with John and Benig will follow. Station House Theatre, 4pm. (See review next page). Conor Bowman’s ‘The Last Estate and the Redemption of George Baxter Henry’, launched by Rev. Anthony Previte. Foyle’s Hotel, 5pm. Reading by one of Ireland’s greatest poets Paul Durcan. Since 1974 when he won the Patrick Kavanagh Award and published his first collection, ‘O Westport in the Light of Asia Minor’ Paul has published many volumes and won numerous awards. His most recent collection is ‘The Laughter of Mothers’ (2008). He lives in Dublin. €10, Foyle’s Hotel, 6:30pm.

21 September Joint reading by local poets Thomas Lyden and John Dunne. €5 J.Conneely’s, 3:30pm. Jackie O’Grady’s book, ‘From the Green Road to the Lighthouse’ will be launched by author Anne Chambers. (author of among many others ‘ Grainne Mhaol’ and ‘La Sheridan, Adorable Diva.’) Abbeyglen, 5:30pm. ‘Celebrating 30 years of Poetry Ireland’. Reading by one of our greatest poets writing in English, Derek Mahon, introduced by poet and publisher Peter Fallon. Derek Mahon’s poems, highly praised at home and abroad range in time and space from the early ‘Beyond Howth Head’, and ‘A Disused Shed in Co. Wexford’ to ‘The Hudson Letter’ and ‘The Yellow Book’. €12. Station House Theatre, 8pm.

22 September Reading by poet Dr. Robyn Rowland. Music by harpist Lynn Saoirse. €5, Clifden Library, 1pm. Reading by poet Louis de Paor, Director, Centre for Irish Studies, NUI Galway. His books include a study of narrative technique in the short fiction of Martin O’Cadhain and an anthology of 20th poetry in Irish coedited with Sean O’Tuama. €5, Clifden Library, 4:30pm. Poetry reading with poets Moya Cannon and Bernard O’Donoghue. Moya’s collections include ‘The Parchment Boat’ and last year’s ‘Carrying the Songs’. She is a member of Aosdana. Bernard is currently a teacher and Fellow in English at Wadham College Oxford. His latest work is a verse translation of ‘Sir Gawain and the Green Knight’ and ‘A Selected Poems’ was published in 2008. Sean Ryan will provide the music. €10. Foyle’s Hotel, 8pm.

23 September Reading by Letterfrack Writers’ Group. €5, Clifden Library, 1pm. ‘The Self Inventor’: talk on Michael Mac Liammoir by Des Lally. Editor of ‘Captivating Brightness’, which has just been published. €5, Clifden Library, 4pm. Readings: Poetry Ireland. National School participants will present their work through readings, art and music following their eight week writer-inresidence programme, sponsored by Poetry Ireland and Galway County Council. West Connemara Leisure Centre, 6pm.

24 September

of her husband Raymond Carver. €8 Foyle’s Hotel, 6pm.

27 September Where do we go to from here?’ Talk by author and artist Gerard Mannix Flynn. ‘Nothing to Say’, a novel was published in 1983 and he has written many plays and screenplays since. His play ‘James X’ was published in 2003. ‘Extallations’ were held in 2004 at Leeson Street Dublin site. He is a member of Aosdana and is on the board of IMMA. Admission: €10 (Sponsored by Alan and Mary Hobard). Station House Theatre, 11am. Open-Mic. Annual musicians and writers get together chaired by poet and teacher Gabriel Fitzmaurice. Participants will include Martin Conroy, Brian Smeaton, John Gerard Walsh, Marie Walsh, Tom Healy, John Dunne, Tommy Kenny, Michael Coady, Tony Curtis , Thomas Lyden, Maurice O’Scanaill. €5. Foyle’s Hotel, 12pm. Clifden Writers Group. €5. Foyle’s Hotel, 3pm. The Inaugural John Moriarty Memorial Lecture. David Lorimer, author, teacher and philosopher. After his career as a merchant banker, David became a teacher of philosophy and modern languages at Winchester College. He is a member of the International Futures Forum and editor of its digest, ‘Omnipedia-Thinking for Tomorrow’. He is also a chair of the Wrekin Trust. His books include ‘Prophet for Our Times: the Life and Teachings of Peter Deunov’. David has always been a great Admirer of the late John Moriarty’s writings. €10. Station House Theatre, 4pm.

Reading by Terry McDonagh €5, Clifden Library, 4:30pm. Readings by Gerald Dawe and John J Quinn. Gerald is a native of Belfast. He has published six collections of poetry. He is currently directing the graduate writing programme and also presents the RTE Poetry programme. ‘Points West’ has just been published by Gallery Press. John J Quinn, writer and RTE broadcaster will read from his childhood memoir ‘Goodnight Ballivor, I’ll Sleep in Trim’. €10. Foyle’s Hotel, 8pm.

25 September Reading: ‘Something About Mary’. Mary Banotti reads from her book about Irish women politicians. €5, Clifden Library, 1pm. Reading: Poet Pat O’Brien. €5, Clifden Library, 4:30pm.

26 September Book Launch: ‘Captivating Brightness.- Ballynahinch’, edited by Des Lally with Peter Fallon and John Fanning. Lunchtime readings with poet-in-residence Tony Curtis, Michael Coady and special guest poet and Michael Gorman. €5, Clifden Library, 1pm. Reading by one of America’s leading writers Tess Gallagher, a poet, essayist, novelist and playwright. Her honours include 2 National Endowment for the Arts Awards. Her book ‘Moon Crossing Bridge’ is her collection of poems written after the death

September 4, 2008

Page 19

Arts Week Book Reviews ‘A Guide to Connemara’s Early Christian Sites’ by Anthony Previté

‘A Guide to Connemara’s Early Christian Sites’ opens with a quote from John O Donohue, “Ruins are not empty. They are sacred places full of presence.” As someone with a passion for history, I feel that this is a very apt quotation. The tumbled stones of any b building, be it castle, h house or church, can g give us an insight in into the life and lives o once lived in those su surroundings. I have o often felt this presen ence in diﬀerent places b but particularly in th the many church and C Christian sites which aare scattered around th the coast and on the islands of Connemara. This sense of the sacred is particularly true in those places where the present connects with the past. I am thinking of sites such as Macdara’s Island or Saint Cailin’s Well. These sites are still living, even if they are deserted, and no longer used for the purpose for which they were constructed. People from far and wide or sometimes just from the locality of the site, visit regularly, often for religious ceremonies of various kinds or other times to bury their dead. These early Christian sites are not forgotten in the locality, nor are the saints associated with them. Like most people in Connemara, I would be familiar with many of the Early Christian sites, especially places such as Omey, High Island, Renvyle, and Macdaras, but would be ignorant of a lot of the others. Also, like most people I would know where most of the church sites were but would know very little about the history of the sites. So it was with great excitement that I picked up this new book from Anthony Previte. (See photo) This is as they say ‘hot oﬀ the presses’ and is published by Oldchapel Press. The first thing which struck me was the size, it is ideal for carrying in a rucksack or to keep in the glove compartment of the car. This is a reference book, a guide to help anyone of us find these various

Page 20

sites. Next I was thrilled by the photographs, clear and concise. These photographs, mostly taken by Anthony himself matched the text perfectly. The whole format is easy to read, with plenty of information on each of the twenty five sites. As well as the various sites, Anthony has given a short introduction which helps put the sites into perspective and a section on the early monastic era which gives an insight into the lives of these monks. One very useful part of each section is the GPS reference and the map which show where the site is located. This will make it easier for anyone trying to locate the various places mentioned. One thing which I felt was missing from the book was an explanation of some of the words used, a lot of people would not be over familiar with church architecture. I have to say that there are very few of these words, and even when they appear, they do not interrupt the flow of the text, but some help would have been useful. That being said I found this book fascinating and it certainly opened my eyes to the richness of early Christian site which we have around us. I look forward to getting out to a few of these sites and studying them with this valuable guide. Breandan O Scanaill, Chairman of Clifden and Connemara Heritage Society

Healing from Within by Benig Mauger Benig Mauger is a psychotherapist specialising in human emotions. That may sound glib, but therapy is often more “news worthy” if it concerns the bad or even evil side of human behaviour and the impulses behind it. Mauger’s latest book is about “the healing of love wounds” and how to cope with the pain. Ten years ago, Clifden n Arts Week was delighted to introduce this most interesting of writers to the listening community. Her first book, “Songs from the wom Womb”, examining the impact of birth upon a woman’s psyche received international acclaim. “Reclaiming Father: the search for Wholeness in Men, Women and Children” was at the very least a clarion call to divorced men to address a problem that aﬀected them. But inevitably, this opened more closed doors, and in this, her latest book, Mauger is following logically from the split of the family unit to the feelings of bereftness - even bereavement - that follow. “Love in a Time of Broken Heart” is precisely about love and relationship-breakdown and how we deal with it “from within”. Perhaps the furore surrounding “Fathers4Justice” - the fathers’ rights movement (which may well have found inspiration from Mauger’s work) - led the author to examine more deeply how we learn to help ourselves through times of pain. The topic of heartbreak is universal. And Mauger’s writing is very accessible. Despite her impressive credentials, she has constructed a most readable book which is far from the “psycho-babble” with which we are confronted on daytime television (an in-depth look at trauma from 9.01am to 9.03........). Here, theory interweaves with case histories presented as short stories. Far from an academic tome, this approach will interest and intrigue the careful reader. John Waters, journalist, writer and a personal friend of Mauger, is introducing the book at its launch on 20th September, 4pm in The Station House Theatre. As a founding member of Fathers4Justice, Water’s contribution is bound to enliven as well as entertain the proceedings . Eithne Hannigan

September 4, 2008

Comedy

18 September Comedy with internationally acclaimed comedian David O’Doherty. Ever popular, he comes to Clifden with 2 small keyboards and a low stool! €12 Station House Theatre, 10pm.

21 September Late night comedy with Kevin Mc Aleer. In this quirky and surreal show he lets you into his private world of hallucinations, surreal interpretations and pure nonsense. €12 Station House Theatre, 11pm.

Theatre

20 September Performance by Children’s Workshop’s participants. Central Hotel, 12:30pm. Street fun with Circus Project from Galway City. The Square, 2:30pm.

25 September Little John Nee presents Dead Roosters’ Blues. Little John invites you to “leave behind the dubious comfort of another night cocked in front of the television and travel with him up into the wild hills for the grand re-opening of an isolated singing lounge- The Mothers’ Arms.” Suitable for 14yr olds and older. €12 Station House Theatre, 8pm.

26 September ‘Waiting for Godot’. To celebrate its 80th birthday, the Gate Theatre is embarking on a unique national tour, which will see its acclaimed production of Waiting for Godot for one night only in 40 venues throughout the 32 counties of Ireland. The tour, which will also mark the 20th anniversary of this legendary production, will star members of the original cast including Stephen Brennan, Barry McGovern, Johnny Murphy and Alan Stanford. Tickets Tel: 095-30303, Station House Theatre, 8pm.

27 September Street Theatre. Jugglers, mime artists, buskers, acrobatics and all manner of street performers with mind-boggling circus skills from the Streetwise Theatre Company, Belfast. Face painting on the Square. Samba music with Shanbo Eire from Drumshanbo and many more delights. The Square, 2pm. Camaelon Theatre and Dance Company present ‘Alice in Wonderland’. €5, Clifden Town Hall, 3pm.

Talks, Walks & Other Things 19 September

Exploring Bronze Age Inisbofin, an archaeological field trip with author and archaeologist Michael Gibbons. Booking @ 095-21379 . The Square, 12pm. Herb walk with herbalist Dr. Nicolas Kats. Starting point: Church of Ireland. Church of Ireland, 5pm.

20 September Arts on the Air’, Renowned historian and activist Dr. Margaret Mc Curtain in conversation with Professor Gearoid O’Tuathaigh. This public interview will be broadcast at 5pm on Connemara Community Radio (87.8 & 106.1 fm), Arts Week wishes to thank Mary Ruddy, Barbara O’Shea, Grainne O’Malley and Linda O’Malery. €8, Station House Theatre, 2:30pm.

25 September Celebration of older persons’ contribution – Clifden Arts Week, in conjunction with Forum recognises and celebrates older persons’ contribution to arts, culture, traditional arts and crafts in the wider community. Lunch will be followed by music, dance and entertainment with Peter Carey, Liam Aspell and guests. Special thanks to Geraldine Kelly, John Coyne, Martina Gavin and Yvonne Kane. Alcock and Brown Hotel, 1pm.

Connemara ArtsView

Art Exhibitions

Many of the artist exhibitions throughout Clifden Arts Week will be holding Opening Receptions. At publication, we had been informed of the following:

Thursday, September 18th Oﬃcial Opening of Clifden Arts Week at the West Connemara Sports and Leisure Centre:. Exhibitions at Clifden Community School and West Connemara Sports and Leisure Centre: Eithne Carr R.H.A.; Rosaleen Coneys; Peter Hynes; Yvonne King; Pamela Lacey; Alannah Robins; Cliona Sheehan; Jimmy Lawlor; Lisa O’Donnell; Joe Boske; John Behan; Jay Murphy; Leonie King; Margaret Irwin; Rosemary Carr; Padraic Rainey; Sean O’Flaithearta; Cathal O’Malley; Sr. Declan; Dolores Lyne; Padraic O’Sullivan; Mark Thomas; Pat O’Connell; Seamus Devitt; John Brennan; Sean Halpenny; Rosemary Kearns; Rosie McGurran A.R.U.A.; Nancy Whelan; Pam Berry; Herman Buytenhuys; An Exhibition of Photographs and Celtic Sculpture (assembled by Lycee Behal, Lens, France, under the European Schools Programme ‘Socrates’); Kate Noonan; Br. Oswald; Tom Kenny; Miriam Kavanagh; Marie Feeney and Connemara Adolescent Support Group; Martin Staunton; Tracey O’Malley, Joi McCarthy; Eunan Gill, Sean O’Farrell (photography); Brian Kelly. Three new artists from Galway organized by James Harrold, Brian Kelly, Sandy Glen, Galway City Arts Oﬃcer. Jane Queally, Ruth Hogan, Gena Lynam, Ben Geoghegan. There will also, of course, be an extensive exhibition of work by Clifden Community School students themselves!

Friday September 19th 5pm: Anne Merrin and Kate Noonan. Clifden Antiques at the Station House. 6:30pm. ‘Close Up’ - an exhibition of new paintings by Reingard Gahan. Opened by Lol Hardiman. Alcock and Brown Hotel.

S Saturday 20th September S 5 5pm. Roundstone native Yvonne King paints the Y raw beauty of Connera mara’s land and coastline m in its diﬀerent light and ccolours. (See painting Heaven & Earth - - The H Bog Road below). Upstairs B Downstairs. D 77pm. Clifden-born Bernard O’Scanaill is B back from Australia b to present his latest ccollection in an exhibition he calls ‘MISTYCH’. Painting in his beloved acrylics, this exhibition has been a year in the making and includes work completed in Australia, France and Ireland. In Ireland, Bernard has been working outdoors between the showers - or was until he lost a few to the Connemara weather. ‘I was determined to ignore the elements and was frustrated by the rain at first until I decided to go with it, and since then, have had a wonderful experience, allowing the elements to have their way with my work.’ The resulting paintings are spontaneous, organic and elemental. Bernard’s paintings are as vibrant as ever but now humoured by forces over which he has no control. ‘I’ve always considered my art as channelling something external, something ethereal, but this work carries the mark of the immediate atmosphere as well.’ This is Bernard’s 5th solo exhibition and follows his very successfull ‘Stable Collection’ show at The Art Factory Gallery in Brisbane, Australia in March 2008. The exhibition n will be opened by local archaeologist, chaeologist Michael Gibbons. Gibbons (Photo: The sun shines on Bernard as he paints in the garden)

Sunday 21st September 6:30pm. Rosie McGurran, Mo West and Kathleen Furey. Signal Restaurant, Station House Courtyard.

Monday 22nd September 5pm: Chris Munnia’s new exhibition entitled ‘Far-Flung Corners of the Earth’ Landscapes of the Orient and the Occident. Cullen’s Bistro, Market Street.

Connemara ArtsView

More Exhibitions

Sculpture and paintings by local artists Johnnie Fitzpatrick and Liz Audigier. New premises next to Stanley’s, Market Street. Lorraine Tuck - photographic exhibition ’The Great Western Sleeper’. Photographs that follow the path of the old Galway - Clifden railway line. Choo Choo, Station House Courtyard. Clifden C Leisure Centre: Group Exhibition: Local, ca National and International Artists at from 18th 1 September, during school hours:9:30am– 4pm 4 weekdays only. Photography P by Clare Cashman. The Grain Store, S Bridge Street Paintings P & Collage by the residents of St Joseph’s Jo Court/Cluid Housing Association. Alcock A and Brown Hotel. Watercolours W entitled ‘Flowers and Plants’ by Patricia P Morrison. Steam Café, Clifden Station House H Courtyard. Paintings P by Hardy Langer. The Atlantic Hotel, Market Street. M Cast C and welded bronze by renowned sculptor John Jo Coll entitled ‘Bone Idols and Bird Dreaming’.(Photo left: “Sung Thrush”). Old Gannon in Sports Shop (beside the Clifden Tourist Oﬃce). S

Additional Exhibition Venues (Artists not specified at time of publication)

Chriost Linn, Station House Courtyard - The Lavelle Art Gallery, Main Street Clifden Art Gallery, Main Street - St Anne’s Nursing Home, Westport Road - Elm Tree Centre.

2nd Annual Art Trail

Clifden Community Arts Week is celebrating its 31st year of bringing the arts to the public. Coinciding with this momentous occasion, Clifden Community Arts Week will present its second annual Art Trail. Through the use of window space kindly provided by homeowners and retail outlets, the Art Trail will have the effect of turning the town into a public art gallery. A map outlining the Art Trail route will be available during Arts Week and will give locals and visitors alike an opportunity to explore and discover more of what Clifden has to offer. The success of last years Art Trail has allowed the concept to evolve and consolidates the aim of complementing the always astounding exhibition at the Connemara Leisure Centre. Both offer a facility for artists who do not always get the opportunity to display their work to exhibit in tandem with others who have. The Art Trail will include paintings, sculpture and photography and is a reflection of the creative activity going on in the community. Make it a point to attend the exhibition at the Connemara Leisure Centre and all other exhibitions and events in this the 31th Clifden Community Arts Week programme. John Durning

Clifden Arts Week Event Bookings RTE Concert Orchestra: Credit Card Booking Call: 1 850 357 035. General Information: 9am-1pm - (095) 30776 / 087 0520295

Ticket Outlets for All Other Events Joyce’s Newsagents, The Square: 095 22611. The Clifden Tourist Oﬃce, Galway Road: 095-21163. The Paper Shop, Main Street: 095 21119.

September 4, 2008

Page 21

Arts in Connemara All Ireland for Fiachra

Book Launch Miraim Moﬀet’s new book “Soupers and Jumpers, The Protestant Missions in Connemara, 1848-1937” will be launched by an Minister Eamon O Cuiv in Foyle’s Hotel, Clifden on Saturday, September 6th at 7.30pm.

Farmlane Gallery, Oughterard Mary Horan is a full time artist living in Moycullen. She has recently opened her own gallery called ‘Farmlane Gallery’ in Main Street, Oughterard, where she is

Ceol Theatre: Annie Auditions Congratulations C t l ti to t Fiachra Fi h O’Regan O’R (see ( photo)of h t ) f Roundstone who won the All Ireland in the Uilleann pipes at the recent Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2008 in Tullamore. Fiachra has been immersed in traditional Irish music from a very young age and he started playing at the age of 11 on the tin whistle. He used to travel the 30 miles to Carna, South Connemara every week to Noreen O Sullivan, for those ever important first lessons, which shaped the unique and relaxed style that he plays in now. Soon after he became interested in the banjo and the local priest gave Fiachra a banjo to set him on his way. So now, equipped with his tin whistle and his banjo he traveled all over the country to summer schools and festivals, where he developed his technique and personal style. In 1997, Fiachra once again enrolled in Scoil Acla, but having played both tin whistle and the banjo, he wanted to try a diﬀerent instrument. The uilleann pipes. He didn’t have a set but borrowed a practice set from the NPU (Na Píobairí Uilleann). The class of beginner pipers followed their workshop teacher Mick Kilbane down to Keel, Achill Island, and in the local chip shop, Fiachra had his first Uilleann pipes lesson. He took to this instrument with such enthusiasm and it just seemed to fit with him. Soon after the summer school in Achill, Fiachra travelled to Kinvara to Eugene Lambe, who made him his first set of pipes. There was no one teaching the instrument in the local area so Fiachra travelled great distances for lessons, some of his teachers being Tommy Keane and Eamon Brophy. For more information on this talented musician, go to www.fiachrapipes.com.

Alannah wins People’s Award Sculptor Alannah Robins from Moyard has become the first joint winner of the People’s Award at the Outside:Insight sculpture exhibition in Brigit’s Garden, Roscahill. In the first award of its kind in the West, visitors to the exhibition were invited to follow the sculpture trail around the Celtic gardens and nature heir favourite piece. The two most walks and vote for their popular sculptures were Robins’ ‘The Outsider’, a 10-foot high structure of rhododendron branches specially created for the exhibition, and ‘Pollen Hotspot’ by Dublin artist Michelle Maher, an installation of brightly-coloured ceramic spheres that appear to float alongside water lilies in the lake. This was the second award for Alannah , who was also joint winner of the Adjudicator’s Award at the opening of the exhibition.

Page 22

Thanks to all who attended and performed in our last Musical Review Night which was a night of Irish songs in EJ Kings on Friday August 15th. We will of course be having more musical review nights throughout the coming year. They are always great fun so if you or anyone you know would like to take part contact John on 087 7504697. We will also be holding auditions for our Christmas production of Annie starting this month. There are lots of roles for adults as well as kids. Open auditions will take place at the Station House Theatre at the following times: Mon 8th Sept 6:30 – 7:30 pm; Tue 9th Sept 6:30 – 7:30 pm; Sat 13th Sept 12:30 – 2:30 pm & Sun 14th Sept 12:30 – 2:30 pm. John Amenhauser

Literary Festival The Oliver St. John Gogarty Literary Festival is running again this year between the 6th - 9th November. This year a Poetry Writing Workshop will take place at the Teach Ceoil on Saturday the 8th of November from 2.30pm to 5.30pm which will be led by the poet, John O’Donnell. Numbers are limited to a maximum of 12 participants. Both published and unpublished poets are invited to apply. A completed application form, together with three poems should be sent to John O’Donnell c/o Renvyle House Hotel, Renvyle, Connemara, Co. Galway before the 1st of October 2008. The fee for successful applicants will be € 40.00. Application forms can be received by contacting by email: gogartysociety@gmail. com or from Renvyle House Hotel, 095 43511.

Art Exhibitions Eggliving, Oughterard Eggliving presents ‘Poached’, an exhibition of work by artists from Engage Art Studios in Galway from 24th August until 28th September. The idea of ‘Poached’ came about as a title for a show that would b launched during Heribe ta Week, and implying tage that th some city heritage c could be ‘poached’ for a c county village, showing a rural ru community a cultural h heritage apparent in Galway c that they might not city have h been aware of before n now. Featuring a mix of work in various media the artists ‘P ‘Poached’ for this show are L Leah Beggs, Alice Collins, Michelle Doyle, Emma M F Fisher, Sharon Lynch and H Hana Tesar (see right). Eng gage Art Studios is an artist le organisation that has exled is isted in Cathedral Building, M Middle Street, Galway since 2 2004. For further details p please email info@eggliving. ie or phone 091 557914.

September 4, 2008

exhibiting her own paintings. Mary’s new exhibition opens on Thursday the 11th September at 7pm. Mary has exhibited all over Ireland including the RDS in Dublin, the Lahinch Art Gallery in Clare, the Russell Art Gallery also in Clare, Artists Direct in Limerick and many others with great success. www.farmlanegallery.com.

Rave Reports on Renvyle Repertoire The rain this summer did not deter journalists, radio reporters and people of literary renown from flooding to Paddy Coyne’s pub in Renvyle on Wednesday nights to enjoy a unique evening’s entertainment of theatre, music, song and dance. Irish Times journalist Ben Murnane wrote a full page article on Tegolin’s Tales Theatre Company’s play ‘The Donkey’. Following on from this, they were contacted by a Boston journalist who is writing an article on the play ‘Kylemore - from castle to abbey’. Then, to cap it all a reporter from Newstalk 106 – 108 drove down from Dublin to see ‘Gogarty’s House’ a play about Renvyle Hotel and Gogarty. This reporter subsequently requested Tegolin (locally know as Ros Coyne) should travel to Dublin to record her stories for children, which she performs using specially designed masks, for the art show on Newstalk 106 – 108. All of these plays are written by B.A. Knowland who has been coming to Renvyle for 55 years. The plays packed the beer garden in Paddy Coyne’s pub. After the plays, Frank Coyne and Shona O’Flaherty played music while Jackie Coyne ‘The Culfin Angler’ got everyone out dancing. On a couple of nights we were treated to a wonderful evening of Sean Os Dancing by champion dancer Emma O’Sullivan and her pupil Amy-Anna Coyne and Teresa Gibbons and Rebecca Sweeney with young star Mairéad Salmon. Ros and husband, Sean, are currently working with Eamon Grennan, Irish Professor and poet based in Vassar University in New York on a dramatisation of J.M. Synge’s ‘The Aran Islands’ which they hope to have ready for Clifden Arts Festival 2009 Tegolin is a professional actor and fully qualified drama teacher with 15 years experience teaching. Last year she completed six outreach community projects in England working with the Oxford Concert Party in disadvantaged schools. Starting this October, Tegolin will be running a drama club for children at the Station House Theatre, and also at the same venue she will be running a Speech & Drama Certificate Course in association with Victoria College London.(This certificate carries a worldwide recognition). For further information you may contact Ros Coyne on 095 43589, tegtale@ eircom.net.

Send in your news, views & photos to news@connemaraview.com Connemara ArtsView

AUTOMOTIVE

TRADES & SERVICES DIRECTORY PETS

SAND & STONE

CATERING TILES

PLANT HIRE HEADSTONES WINDOWS

HOUSEHOLD

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September 4, 2008

PAGE 23

CLASSIFIED ADS Properties Apartment to Let Clifden. Two bedroom, modern, bright. Fully furnished. Available now for long rental. References required. Contact Connie on 086-165-9065. For Rent: 2 & 3 bedroom apartments and rooms to let, 5 minutes walk from Clifden town centre, fully furnished. 095-44924 or 087-249-8097. For Rent: 3 bed (1 ensuite) apt, Station House Complex, Clifden. All mod cons and minutes from town centre. Contact Mary 087-231-2193. 3 bedroomed house to let: (near Cleggan). All mod cons, fully ﬁtted. Newly decorated with wooden ﬂooring, careful tenants appreciated. Contact 086 343 8900. House to let: River Falls, Clifden. Beautiful 3 bedroomed house. Immaculate condition and convenient location. Contact 086-607-7001.

Items for Sale or Rent

Connemara Bouncing Castles for hire for all occasions, supplied with rain covers, delivered, erected and collected. 095-21219. Prefab Horse Stables for sale or rent (see photo): Delivered to your door. Two or four horse stable available. Call for appt to see on site. 086-346-9372.

Wanted

Wanted: Roundstone Connemara Pony Show are putting together a Calendar of Connemara Ponies. We are looking for anyone that has old photographs or any other sort of information relating to Connemara Pony Shows or Pony Owners in the early years. Please send all information to Bernie Mullen, Foreglos, Ballyconneely, Co. Galway or email to berniekenny_5@hotmail.com.

Animals/Pets

Animal rescue: 7 month old male collie/ husky cross needs a good home(see photo). Also, beautiful 1 year old female collie dog requires a good home, contact 087-249-9849. Attention all pet owners!! Wide selection of dog/cat accessories, premium pet foods, professional advice on nutrition, pet maintenance, radio fence pet containment systems, micro-chipping, cat boarding service, grooming and lots more at Western Veterinary clinic, Galway Road, Clifden. Tel 095 22209. Veterinary emergencies only, call 087-917-9248. Mare Scanning service now available at Western Veterinary Clinic. Ring the oﬃce on 095 22209 for an appointment.

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It’s Better To Neuter! Neutering is far better for your pet’s health, whether male or female. The good news is that you could be eligible to have your dog or bitch neutered for only €20.00! Phone Dog’s Trust Ltd on 1890 946 336. Are you feeding stray cats? Feeding is not enough! Cats are very successful breeders, and one or two cats can soon turn into a whole colony. So, don’t delay! Help fight the problem of stray cats: phone 01 4163030 to find out if you are eligible for a ‘Blue Cross’ Cat Neutering Voucher. Is your cat or dog overweight? Did you know that obesity in pets can cause serious health problems? Western Veterinary Clinic, Clifden, offers a FREE ‘weightwatcher’s’ programme for pets. Ring WestVet on 095 22209 for an appointment.

Employment Waiting Staff required for café in Clifden. Day-time hours only. Call 087 903 4142 for more details. Child Minder required to care for 2 young children in their home 5 days a week, must have own transport. Phone Karen on 086-8460009. Pub staff required for busy Irish pub in Naples, Florida, U.S.A. For details call 086 346 9372 Part-time TEFL teacher required in Clifden. Minimum Relsa/Celta qualification required. Apply with CV to: Improve Your English, Above the Grove Medical Centre, Mill Street, Westport, Co. Mayo. Phone Muriel Barry @ 087 9130613 or email improveyourenglish@eircom.net. Child Minder wanted to look after 3 children in own home. 1 Baby, 1 Pre-school and 1 school-going. 5 days per week. Experience and References essential. For more information contact (095) 33409 or (087)2989291. Assistant Head Chef Required, with experience. Kindly send CV to Jasmine Garden Chinese Restaurant, Market St, Clifden or call (095) 21174.

Information Services Does your partner? Call you names, constantly criticise you? Control your access to money/ phone/car etc? Monitor your time, threaten you and the children? If so you may be in an abusive relationship. For free, friendly, confidential advice and support call D.V.R.@ 091-866-740. Clifden Citizens Information Centre provides a free and confidential service to the public. We are in the VEC offices above the Statoil Garage, Galway Rd, Clifden, and can be contacted on 095 22000 & 087 1301100. New Opening Hours! Thursday 7pm-8pm & Friday 10:30am3:30pm. Information is also available online at www. citizensinformation.ie and LoCall 1890 777 121.

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Health Reiki/Seichem. Experience the calm and healing energies of this treatment, which is drug free and non-invasive. These powerful energies can heal on a mental, emotional, spiritual & physical level. Qualiﬁed Reiki/Seichem Master Practitioner, call Yvonne on (086) 3653266. Exercise: A mixture of classes commening this month in Letterfrack,Claddaghduﬀ and Oughterard Halls,includes Step Aerobics, Exercise To Music And Circuits. Contact Kelly on 0876180622.

Services Traditional Irish Music classes by Marie Walsh now enrolling for new classes starting in September, Button Accordion, Piano/Keyboard, Fiddle, Whistle, for more info and to book now call 086 4015342. Website Design: original design and professional layout, tailor-made graphic design, ﬂash animations, online retailing, content management system, search engine submission, domain registration and web hosting. Visit www.cuanmaradesign.com. Email: caroline@ cuanmaradesign.com or phone Caroline on 086-0791918.

September 4, 2008

WEDDING SERVICES

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

C o n s u m e r Wa t c h D o g Survey of Clifden Eateries Alcock & Brown Atlantic Cullens Derryclare E.J. King's Foyles Griffin's Guy's J.Conneely's Lowry's Mannion's Off the Square Station House Steam The Central The D'Arcy Tom King's Upstairs Downstairs Walsh's Bakery

Cup of Coffee 1.80 1.50 2.00 1.80 1.85 2.00 1.70 2.00 1.70 1.70 1.70 2.00 2.20 1.90 1.50 1.60 1.50 2.00 1.85

Pot of Tea 2.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.85 1.50 1.60 1.50 1.50 1.70 1.70 1.30 2.20 1.70 1.50 1.40 1.50 1.20 1.70

Ham & Cheese Bowl of Sandwich Soup 3.80 3.95 5.50 3.80 4.90 4.50 x 3.95 4.50 4.95 x 4.95 3.75 3.75 3.75 3.75 x 3.70 4.00 3.90 4.95 3.60 3.50 4.95 4.50 4.50 x 3.80 3.95 3.50 3.00 3.50 2.40 x 3.00 3.10 3.50 3.95

x = Did not have comparable item Survey conducted in person from August 29-Sept 2.

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

September 4, 2008

Getting to Shannon Airport

I conducted a phone check of ten taxi/hackney services last week since I needed to get there myself this week. The range of prices for this trip was huge. I requested a price for 2 people going one way to Shannon Airport from Clifden. The lowest price received was €140 and the highest was €230. Connor McDonough-Flynn

Consumer Watchdog Petrol Survey Service Station

Petrol Diesel

Cosgraves, Castlebar Sweeney ESSO Clifden Clifden Service Station Actons, Moyard Rogans, Renvyle Welbys, Oughterard Maam Cross Kylemore Filling Station Joyce's, Recess Ferrons, Roundstone

124.90 127.90 127.90 127.90 128.90 128.90 129.90 129.90 132.90 134.90

130.90 137.90 137.90 137.90 137.90 137.90 139.90 139.90 137.90 147.90

Phone survey conducted 01/02 September 2008

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Health Problems & Natural Medicine Childhood Obesity

Every now and then someone comments on the plump waistlines in kids. Bulging bellies. Girls and young women without waists. Gargantuan love handles. This pattern is new. It was uncommon a generation ago. Now it is very common. What we are seeing on the streets is an explosion of obesity. Why? There are several factors. I’m going to talk about the two big ones. The first is highly refined carbohydrates. This means refined sugar, or foods and beverages rich in refined sugar. And highly processed foods from grains, like biscuits, cookies, white bread. Some background. The basic unit of energy in the blood is glucose. Blood glucose comes from carbohydrates, protein and fat. It gives muscles and tissues energy. The key to a healthy pattern of energy from food is a slow and long lasting supply of blood sugar. A diet of protein, fat and whole carbohydrates give this pattern. Protein and fat and take a long time to be digested, absorbed and converted to blood glucose. They provide a moderate and steady supply of blood glucose. The energy from these foods lasts a long time. There is plenty of time to burn off the glucose from dietary protein and fat. Whole carbohydrates (fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables, whole grains and seeds) also yield a moderate and long lasting supply of blood glucose. This is because whole carbohydrates are rich in fiber. Fiber slows down the absorption of sugars from food. Whole carbohydrates can be rich in protein (legumes) and fat (nuts). These help. Refined carbohydrates have little or no fiber, and are low in protein and fat. Blood glucose shoots up, then comes down quickly – essentially a spike. This pattern of blood glucose spikes is impossibly high and fast.There is no

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time to burn this high blood sugar off. The body hates wasting blood glucose. It has to go somewhere. Unused excess glucose is converted to fat and deposited in fatty tissues for future use. This reflects the ancestral days of feast and famine, of the cave man eating mammoths and mushrooms,when available. Fast forward to the 21st century, enter highly refined carbohydrates. When ‘worms’ like biscuits and Lucozade meets Cave Man, the result is obesity. The current explosion of obesity is just a symptom of the problem of cheap, sweet, highly refined carbohydrates. The other factor is the obesity epidemic is lack of exercise.Today’s kids have it much easier than their parents. Exercise burns off calories, obviously. But there is more. The tissues that receive blood glucose for energy have insulin receptors on the cellular surfaces. Insulin receptors control the amount of glucose leaving blood and entering the tissues. When there is adequate exercise, relatively few insulin receptors are needed and the flow of blood glucose to tissue is harmonious. But when there is lack of exercise, eg a couch potato, this affects the insulin receptors. They can lose sensitivity, and the number of receptors can go up dramatically. Blood sugar has problems getting into tissue, and gets too high. This excess of blood sugar either gets converted to fat and stored away resulting in obesity. Or it doesn’t get converted leading to prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes. Which foods mess up insulin receptors? Highly refined carbohydrates. They cause chronically elevated blood glucose which adversely affects insulin receptors. When I see young people with no waists, walking out of shops with armfuls of “worms”or other highly refined carbohydrates, I can’t help thinking in certain ways. Cut out those highly refined carbohydrates.Couch potatoes,perhaps? Those kids are addicts.They need to drop their yummy refined carbohydrates. Switch to whole carbohydrates, protein and fats. Turn off the bleeding TV and video games, get out there, get those insulin receptors back to normal. That should work wonders with those love handles. Nick Kats ND, Lic. Ac., uses acupuncture, diet, herbal medicine, supplements, massage and chiropractic. His clinics are in Galway (091583260) and Clifden (087-7714710). Website: www.drnkats.com.

Acting against Arthritis

Arthritis can affect as many as one in ten of the population and there are over ninety different types. Arthritis is Greek, meaning inflammation of a joint and there are a number of causes of and types of Arthritis. A joint is the place where two bones meet but are protected from rubbing against each other by cartilage and by synovial fluid which lubricates the joint on movement. So what can cause Arthritis? Simple wear and tear, post traumatic stress, e.g. surgery among other things, genetic factors, imbalance of hormones and poor diet can all impact on the joints.The different types of Arthritis can include simple inflammation of a joint; Gout which is the build up of uric acid and crystals in the joints; Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease which occurs when the body’s immune systems mistakes the body’s own tissues as an enemy to be eradicated; extensive wear and tear of a joint, caused by high levels of physical activities, sporting activities or being overweight can cause the ends of bones to rub together creating pain due to inflammation. Sometimes the bones can fuse together causing immobility of the joint which is known as Osteoarthritis. Unfortunately, there is no accepted conventional cure or even effective treatment to be had for arthritis, apart from anti -inflammatory medication and steroids which can have serious side effects for many. Strangely enough the prescribed antiinflammatory drugs suppress the symptoms but accelerate the progression of osteoarthritis and are “known to damage connective tissue, increase uric acid levels and inhibit cartilage repair”. (A Vogel Institute) and can also cause “digestive ulcers and increase the likelihood of strokes and heart attacks”! It makes me wonder why people would take such medication especially as it will, in the long term, only exacerbate the problem. There are alternatives though, which can relieve pain and inflammation and there are many self-help techniques that a person can follow as well. One very effective and natural remedy for relief of inflammatory pain is Arnica Gel or Atrogel. It offers swift results and does not lose its effectiveness when used long term unlike con-

September 4, 2008

ventional topical medications and is of use in all cases of arthritis as well as easing muscular strains and sprains. It has as much effect as Ibuprofen but no side effects. Glucosomine Sulphate can rebuild cartilage and ligament and can be found in several forms. It can take a few months to work and build up in the body so it is a good idea to take the herbal supplement Devil’s Claw.This herb is a very powerful antiinflammatory and can reduce pain and increase mobility within the first few weeks of taking. Fortunately, Devil’s Claw has none of the adverse and unpleasant side effects of conventional drugs and can be taken long term without any damage to the digestive system or the cardiovascular system. It can also be used for sports injuries and rheumatic complaints and is particularly of benefit if you have osteoarthritis. For those with Gout, where uric acid or crystal deposits have built up in the joints, Devil’s Claw can also be taken as well as Knotgrass. This herb works to dissolve calcified deposits found in the joints as well as strengthening the soft tissue around the joints. Urtica will also reduce uric acid in the boy and has a cleansing effect on the blood stream, (which is responsible for carrying uric acid and crystals and depositing them in the joints) as well as gently detoxifying the body. EFAs or Essential Fatty Acids such as those in Omega 3 oils can be taken as they can help rejuvenate synovial fluid around the joint thus reducing stiffness and they also work to reduce inflammation due to their involvement with the endocrine system. Natural anti-histamines such as Quercetin can reduce inflammation by preventing the release of histamine in the body due to allergic reaction, perhaps because of a sensitivity to a certain food. About 50% of those afflicted with Arthritis are sensitive to the nightshade group of foods, a group which includes tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, aubergines and tobacco and should therefore be avoided. Acidity of the body is a big factor in the level of pain and inflammation so “acidic” foods such as dairy, wheat and red meat should be replaced with green leafy vegetables, oats, figs, whole grains and oily fish such as salmon, cod, mackerel or tuna. Complementary therapies such as Acupuncture, Bowen Therapy and Kinesiology can also help reduce pain. Please call in to An Bhean Feasa for help and information. Terri Conroy

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

Indonesian Royal Treatment We reported last month that Renew Beauty and Spa at the Station House has undergone quite a revamp after ten years of existence. Of the new treatments available, the Indonesian inspired LuLur rituals sounded heavenly, and I was lucky enough to get to sample this newest spa method in Connemara recently-yet another tough assignment I hear you say! The Lu Lur Ritual treatments are inspired by a traditional Indonesian ritual, where brides to be would be beautified for a period of 40 days before their wedding. This practice has now been adapted for use as a spa treatment incorporating massage, body scrubs and intensive moisturizing and uses products like traditional LuLur Dry Oil, Sacred Tamanu Anointing Oil with Jasmine, and Mandi Susu Rose Bath Soak. The treatment package I experienced (and enjoyed immensely) was a Lu’Lur exfoliation using Hibiscus and Turmeric Body Scrub followed by a Coco Cream body Moisturizing Wrap. While wrapped and relaxing, I also had a Dermalogica Hydrating Facial to ensure total body radiance. To begin the treatment package, I first took a seat at the facial skin scanning machine. This technology uses ultraviolet light to see past the surface of your skin, and show up areas that need special concern, which will then be addressed in your skincare treatment.

Signs of Menopause

Seeing past the surface would shock the vast majority of us I suspect, and I was no different as I realized the slight sun burn I had got on my nose a couple of months ago on a rare hot day, had left behind a little reminder of sun damage. The main problem Rose found with my skin was serious dehydration. There was no denying this either, as my eye sockets looked like two purple sunken hollows, and when Rose asked me how many caffeinated drinks I would normally have in a day, I guiltily admitted to 4 or 5. A point of interest here; in order to counteract the diuretic effect of one cup of coffee, you need to drink 8 glasses of water. Throw in a few cigarettes a day, and neglect your SPF in your daily moisturizer and you’re on the road to dull and aging skin. It seems to me though, that just by making yourself aware of how much better you could look, you get a great incentive to make more of an effort. The skin scanning allows a detailed Dermalogica face mapping, and the subsequent facial can then be tailored to your needs. In the luxurious and relaxing treatment room , the first step in my journey towards beauty and relaxation was the Lu’Lur Hibiscus and Turmeric Body scrub. Tumeric is a potent antioxidant, and the scrub was a bright yellow colour. The massage and exfoliation was invigorating and thorough, and I certainly feel that exfoliation is more effective and enjoyable when administered by another person, in this case, therapist Marcella O Malley. I then showered that off in preparation for being smothered in velvet soft Coco Cream body moisturizer. It consists of organic coconut oil, cocoa butter and kukui

Menopause marks the end of reproductive capacity of women and results from the permanent cessation of ovarian function. Natural menopause is a gradual process that occurs for most women between the ages of 47 and 55 years. It is confirmed by absence of menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months, excluding other obvious causes. (Some women have had chemotherapy or surgical procedures removing the ovaries.). It is a natural part of life marking the end of fertility. The peri-menopause, a time of changing ovarian function, precedes the final menses by 2 to 8 years , it is a time were the woman’s cycle becomes sometimes irregular and for certain women the periods can become troublesome, heavy or painful. The symptoms of this transition to menopause are not well understood; however, some symptoms such as hot flushes (feeling of heat in the face, neck, chest and sometimes associated redness or dizziness) and night sweats (hot flushes at night) begin before the menopause and increase as women progress through the menopause. The hot flushes can happen out of the blue or be triggered by heat, caffeine, spicy food, alcohol, or stress. They are caused by changes in the body temperature control mechanisms. They can lead to poor sleep, tiredness the following day thus altering your energy levels and memory and concentration abilities Nonspecific symptoms including, irritability, insomnia, headaches, palpitations, and mood swings or depression have been commonly reported. They can be caused by symptoms of the menopause or have other causes at this time of life. Among other common complains are: dryness in the genital and urinary area and loss, decrease or increase of libido. Another silent problem at this time of life is the speeding up of the decrease in bone density leading sometimes to osteoporosis (brittle bones). However, the prevalence of symptoms differs widely and their relationship with the menopause transition varies. In addition, the specific symptoms associated with menopause vary among cultures, race/ethnicity, social groups, and persons. In the most recent studies in the US, the most prevalent symptoms reported by all women were joint/muscle pain and headache which are not symptoms specific to the menopause. A lot of menopausal women think they are too old to get pregnant. Pregnancies after 40 are usually trouble free but they need

nut oil and softens, hydrates and nourishes the skin. The texture of the cream was light and non greasy, despite its intense moisturizing properties, and the smell was subtly sweet, not overpowering like many coconut products. I was then wrapped in a light plastic sheet and covered with a plush blanket, while my own body heat accelerated the intake of the Cocoa cream moisturizer. Marcella then began the hydrating facial using Dermalogica products, which contain no alcohol or artificial colours and are non comodegenic (they don’t block pores). Two ladies I complimented for their glowing skin in recent years both swore by Dermalogica, and are serious devotees, so I looked forward to trying the range for myself. The facial began with a double cleanse and gentle exfoliation and massage. This was followed by an oxygenating serum and essential oil of lavender and sandalwood, which I found particularly enjoyable and soothing. Many of us worry about blotchy skin after a facial, where blackheads or blemishes have been removed, but I was astounded to see a glowing face with no redness or evidence of blemishes looking back at me in the mirror afterwards. In fact, I went to a meeting later that night having put nothing else near my face-the brightness and glow of healthy skin reminded me what my complexion should really look like, without the need for foundation or cover ups. After a wonderful few minutes of just lying there relaxing after the treatments, I reflected on how much we wear ourselves down, particularly at busy times of the year. The demands of daily life can take a serious toll on

more antenatal care, carry more chromosome abnormalities and miscarriage risks. Diabetes and hypertension happen more often, thus creating more risks for mother and child. Very often at this age women seek advice following a scare or use contraception intermittently. Some women are unaware of the advances in contraception in the last 10 years. All methods are increasingly effective with age. In 2006 50% of Irish women did not use contraception at all. Among the couples using contraception methods, half were sterilised, a quarter used condoms and a quarter used hormones, coils or diaphragms. Of course, emergency contraception has no age limit and the most effective at this age is the IUD (intrauterine device or coil). If there are no medical contra-indications, the classic pill (as well as the patch and ring) can be used until 50. It has many benefits but the increased risks of cardio vascular diseases, clots and breast cancer have to be discussed with the prescribing doctor. The progesterone only pill is highly effective in this age group and can be used until 55. It does not increase cardiovascular disease and clots.The “injection” and the implant are suitable also and can be used until 55.There is an increased risk of osteoporosis if the injection is used for a long period of time. The IUD (coil) is highly effective and convenient and if inserted after 40 can stay until the menopause and be removed 1 year after the periods have ceased. The IUS (Mirena) is ideal in case of heavy periods and is highly efficient. The barrier methods (condoms, diaphragms and spermicidal) are still very popular. The condoms are efficient: after 40 people are getting good at using them. Older women are more reliable users of diaphragms reducing the failure rate. Spermicidals can be used on their own after 50 if there is no other suitable alternative. The natural methods of family planning are effective if you are motivated, but it is more difficult to start this method after 40 and the menstrual irregularities can create difficulties. These methods should be used until the periods have disappeared for at least 2 years if you are under 50 and 1 year if you are over 50. Don’t forget HRT is not contraception. Sexuality For some women, but by no means all, menopause brings a decrease in sexual activity. Reduced hormone levels cause subtle changes in the genital tissues and are thought to be linked also to a decline in sexual interest. While changes in hormone produc-

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

September 4, 2008

one’s face and body, whether it’s 4 coffees a day in an effort to keep you on the go, or being in too much of a rush to moisturize after a shower as you run out the door to work. The benefit of treatments such as the Lu’Lur rituals is that they can take you out of your humdrum routine, and make you feel pampered and special. Despite its origins as a pre-wedding treatment for brides, trust meyou don’t need a prospective husband to really get the most out of this treat! For some, Dermalogica and it’s benefits are already well known, but many would be converted after a facial skin treatment. Meanwhile, Lu’Lur Rituals are a new delight for tired bodies and minds to enjoy. One thing is for sure though, a package like this reminds you that we all need a treat once in a while, and just how important it is for your overall wellbeing. With the addition of this exciting new range of treatments, Rose and her staff certainly know how to give you that exact feeling. Renew can be reached by calling 095 21881 or for more information and descriptions of treatments available go to www.renewbeauty.com . Catherine Pryce

Photo shows Renew Staff Roisin O’Sullivan, Marcella O’Malley and proprietor Rose Greene.

tion are cited as the major reason for changes in sexual behavior, many other interpersonal, psychological, and cultural factors can come into play. For instance, a Swedish study found that many women use menopause as an excuse to stop sex completely after years of disinterest. Many physicians, however, question if declining interest is the cause or the result of less frequent intercourse. Some women actually feel liberated after menopause and report an increased interest in sex. They say they feel relieved that pregnancy is no longer a worry. Some men go through their own set of doubts in middle age. They, too, often report a decline in sexual activity after age 50. Remember, at any age, sexual problems can arise if there are doubts about performance. If both partners are well informed about normal genital changes, each can be more understanding and make allowances rather than unmeet able demands. Open, candid communication between partners is important to ensure a successful sex life well into your seventies and eighties. In recent years the medical diagnosis and treatment of “menopausal syndrome” has come under a barrage of criticism. Critics of the conventional clinical approach claim that menopausal syndrome is largely a social role foisted on middleaged women in this society. The physician plays a very active part (albeit an inadvertent one) in recruiting. In contrast, those organic changes directly associated with estrogens insufficiency do lead in some women to definite pathologies, e.g., osteoporosis and an increased rate of bone fractures.Whether these organic concomitants of aging in women should be viewed and treated medically are a moot question, and one which involves values and politics more than medical facts. Our change of life, the menopause is given its very substance and meaning by our society’s evaluation of ageing, medicine and choice.‘The hot flushes’,‘the contractions’(in labour) or menstruation are something that you ‘get’or ‘have’, or would like to ‘lose’or ‘give away’. It is as if women (and men) should not, however, be ‘prey’to their bodies, but ‘beat’their disease or symptoms with large doses of drugs and aggressive operations. In the next issue we will review common sense methods of self help and life style adjustments to get through this transition harmoniously. A very good booklet has been published by the HSE recently in conjunction with the women’s council. It can be obtained at your gp’s or at www.healthpromotion.ie. Dr. Sophie Faherty

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E c o - Fr i e n d l y S t a i n Re m ova l

Hopefully, some of you Connemara View readers out there have rid yourself of some of those horrible chemicals in your households and tried going back to basics with our guide to cheap and eco-friendly household cleaning. Since researching and writing the articles I have adopted a number of the tips myself, and I truly no longer feel the need to splash out on piles of chemical filled expensive cleaning products. It's better for your pocket and better for the environment, and it can actually be very satisfying to see how effective a tip can be. Having already covered specific aspects of the kitchen and bathroom in previous issues, this concluding article consists of natural methods of stain removal and a number of general household tips, that are ingenious at times, and can become invaluable if you decide to use them. The “Holy Trinity” of natural cleaning products, as I like to call them, vinegar, lemon juice and baking powder once again feature regularly and you will find even more uses for these household staples. Stain Removal Tips When trying to remove a stain from a fabric, always check the washing care advice first. Delicate materials may not be suitable for any treatments apart from water. Lemon Juice has been used as a natural stain remover for centuries. •It will remove rust and stains from plastic, either neat or diluted. •Diluted with water, lemon juice will remove curry stains from carpet. •Rust Stains can be removed by applying a layer of salt, then pour lemon juice on top and rub it in. •In fact, a simple clothing stain remover paste can be applied to most types of fabric. Half a teaspoon of lemon juice mixed to a paste with a quarter of a teaspoon of Cream of tartar can be spread over a stain and allowed to dry before a normal wash. This is very effective on a number of

PAGE 28

common stains. Here is a list of some common stains and some natural tips for getting rid of them. Oil, Grease and Butter: Sprinkle some cornflour or baking soda onto the stain. Place the garment, stain side down on top of a large rag on an ironing board. Iron with a hot iron on the wrong side of the stain and most oil and grease stains will come right out. This method will only work for oil as it need heat to dissolve. Greasy laundry, for example a mechanic's overalls, can be brilliantly treated by adding a can of Coke to the wash, as well as the normal detergent. It will not damage your machine or clothing and is incredible at lifting out grease, asphalt and creosote stains. Fruit: First apply lemon juice to the stain before trying any soap bar stain removers. Some stains from fruit, including wine and tomato sauce will disappear when boiling water is poured over them in a bowl. Again, this might not be suitable for some fabrics. Tea : These stains can be hard to get out, but should be soaked in cold water before using soap. Wine: The first line of defence against spillages on carpets and rugs is to immediately put a good helping of salt or baking powder on the spill as quickly as possible. It will soak up a lot of the moisture and prevent it from spreading if you want to immediately try to scrub it . Once it has dried, hoover it up, and treat the remaining stain with soda water. Wine stains on cotton can be treated effectively by rubbing with neat white vinegar, before cleaning in accordance with the label instructions. Crayons: If your children fancy using your walls as canvas to practice their art, don't worry, there are a couple of tricks for get-

ting rid of the marks left. Heat the crayon marks with a hairdryer and blot as you go with kitchen paper. Crayon can also be removed by dipping a kitchen towel in baking soda, and applying a bit of elbow grease. Pen Ink: This is a difficult one, but it is worthwhile to soak it in milk for a couple of hours. It may take a bit of time and a top up after a while, but it is effective. This is also worth trying on chocolate and even blood. Chewing Gum: One approach is to pour straight white vinegar over it to saturate, and will work even better if you heat the

vinegar first. Then wash as normal. You could also try using basic shampoo (without inbuilt conditioner) on washable fabrics. Work it well into the fibres and follow with normal wash. Gum can also be frozen off a surface by using ice cubes. The trick is to be patient and keep applying the ice cubes until it literally lifts right up. Sticky Price Tag Adhesive: A fairly common household product, WD-40, can be used to easily remove the pesky glue that's so hard to get rid of when you peel price labels off plastic items. Just spray it on, and rub it off with a cloth. It works brilliantly without harming the plastic. Sweet Orange Essential Oil is also an excellent adhesive remover. Use on a soft cloth to remove sticky gum residues. Sweat Stains: These are a common nuisance and are best treated by applying stain remover soap. However the best way to prevent them is to dry shirts on a washing line when possible. It is the heat of the dryer that sets sweat stains and makes them harder to shift. The combination of sunlight and drying at a lower temperature keeps the stains from turning yellow. Candle wax: The best way to get wax off fabric is to place brown paper over the affected area and iron on a medium to hot setting. The brown paper will absorb the wax leaving the fabric perfect in the vast

September 4, 2008

majority of cases. You could also try the ice method until the wax dries and cracks bit I have always found the brown paper method to be the most effective. If the problem is wax on carpet, use a good thick brown paper and iron over also. And finally, here are some random, weird and wonderful hints and tips for general household cleaning that have come my way in recent times. •To clean leather shoes, rub them with the inside of a banana peel, then wipe off and buff with a soft cloth. Strange, but effective! •Water marks on wooden surfaces can be removed by rubbing half a Brazil nut on the area, but make sure the surface is completely dry first. •Mayonnaise on a soft dry cloth or toothpaste on on a damp cloth can also get rid of water marks on wood. Of the above methods for water mark removal, one is bound to work. •A great wooden floor cleaner can be made from ¼ cup of olive oil, 2 tbsp vinegar, 2 tbsp vodka and a small amount of beeswax. It is completely natural and safe and will leave wooden floors and surfaces sparkling. •To remove static cling, scrunch a good size piece of tin foil into a ball, and place with load in dryer. Try this one-it really does work. •Grubby smudges and kids fingerprints can be removed from walls by rubbing the offending marks with slightly moist, stale white bread. •Use vegetable oil instead of paint thinner to remove paint from hands and skin. It may take a tiny bit longer but is much kinder to the skin. •To remove musty smells from a wooden cabinet, place some ground coffee in the drawers or inside. Baking powder is also good for this, and removing odours from almost everywhere in the house. It can also be sprinkled on a musty mattress and hoovered off to freshen it up if it has not been used for a while. To conclude, it's fairly apparent that many home cleaning issues can be dealt with very well by using natural, cheap, tried and tested methods. In a society where convenience is promoted as the most obvious choice, we would do well to be more aware of all the unnecessary chemicals and solutions that we breathe, touch and ingest on a regular basis. Our homes and bodies will feel and look better if we put just a little more thought into our household routines.

Catherine Pryce

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

Char it able Mission To Moldova Before I headed off for Moldova (a small country nestled between the Ukraine and Romania), I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was going to work with an Irish charity who have taken up residence in a Moldovan orphanage for abandoned girls suffering from physical or mental disabilities. Outreach Moldova is a young charity, set up 6 years ago by Suzanne Connelly, with the help of her father Des. Suzanne had gone out to work in the orphanage after her 3rd year of medicine and never really went home. Back then, the orphanage housed 180 girls at any one time, with 60 girls a year dying, mostly of malnutrition. Now the orphanage houses 367 girls and 7 girls have sadly been lost in the past 6 years. One of these girls, Natascha, had died of a heart condition a couple of months before I went to visit, and the other girls were still in mourning, mentioning her often and cosseting photos of her. The girls here suffer from a wide range of conditions. Most suffer from moderate to severe mental delay and a high percentage are wheelchair bound but some were institutionalised for what we would consider simple complaints here; asthma, diabetes... Mariana is a perfect cheeky little girl except she was born without a left eye. These children are left in institutions as their families cannot afford their medications, or due to the poor attitude within the community towards any child which is perceived as having a defect. Suzanne is slowly trying to deal with the prejudice these girls encounter in the community. Each year, most of the girls get to visit McDonalds and the zoo or amusement park. This allows the girls to see some of their country, outside the walls of their orphanage and also means local people must acknowledge the existence of these children. Despite having been refused treatment in the local hospital for a child that was described as “sub human” she is trying to improve the local hospital, which would obviously benefit the whole community. Also if antenatal and perinatal care were improved, the number of babies requiring special care would hopefully fall. As you are reading this, a shipment of second hand Cork hospital beds are making their way to Hinceist community hospital. The first day was very upsetting: Though I had known there were 367 girls in the orphanage, it is only when you walk through room after room of children, who can’t walk, speak, see, that you realise what a big number that really is. It is humbling to see the daily battles some children go through. It didn’t take long though, before you just saw them as kids. Natascha, a beautiful 19 year old suffering

Sheep De-stocking Now U navoidable

Hill sheep farming in Connemara is now facing inevitable change, as the Department of Agriculture and National Parks and Wildlife Service currently prepare to significantly de-stock the Twelve Bens and Maam Turk SAC’s (Special Areas of Conservation).The initial proposal of removing sheep from the hills for 5 months of the year to counteract the effects of overgrazing in the area was emphatically rejected by farmers of the area and their IFA representatives and this will not now be enforced. However, large scale de-stocking is still required if farmers are to avail of the compensation packages offered by the government and avoid severe penalties for non-compliance. All farmers to be affected have been informed in writing of the need to have consulted with their planners and have appropriate arrangements in place by October 1st, with either the NPWS Farm Planning Scheme or REPS. Failure to do so will mean they will not qualify for the compensation offered for this year. Approximately 80% of the farmers in the area are already in a REPS Scheme and the remaining number will have until November ‘09 to comply with the regulations or face severe penalties.The NPWS Farm Plan Scheme offers compensation of €27.50 for each de-stocked sheep taken off the hills for 5 months or €50 if the sheep is sold. REPS farmers will have €2000 per year payment added to their payment for the next 5 years. After a series of meetings, discussions and negotiations between the IFA, NPWS and Government officials, the situation and compensation deal was explained in detail at a meeting at Peacockes of Maam Cross on Friday August 8th. Conor O Raghallaigh and Andy Bleasdale of the NPWS outlined the situation from their point of view and put it to the crowd that due to the failure of the land to recover from overgrazing in recent years, strict monitoring of the situation and significant destocking is now an unavoidable reality. The atmosphere of the night ranged from indignation to resignation, but the general consensus was that the IFA and their representatives had done their very best to obtain a suitable deal for all involved. Speaking after the meeting Connacht IFA Vice President Michael Silke described the meeting as a success, despite the hesitation of

some. “The issue of de-stocking is going to cause great pain for farmers, but there is compensation available and we need to get agreement from both sides. There’s definitely a greater understanding of it now and as time progresses there will be acceptance” he said. Martin Gavin of Connemara IFA said “ Bringing down numbers and lessening farming activity goes against the grain in all of us. But we had to try and get what we could in compensation”. He also urged farmers to interact with their planners without delay. While the NPWS recommends a maximum stocking level of a maximum of 1.5 ewes/ hectare, the IFA believe that a 2 ewe/hectare ratio would be sustainable. It is understood that the Government bodies will monitor the situation closely however and there will be inspections of land carried out after the farmers and planners have made arrangements to ensure the regulations are being adhered to. Minister Éamon Ó Cuív, who attended the meeting, expressed that while the majority of farmers accepted that the compensation package was reasonable, many were concerned that they would end up with a non viable number of sheep, and that it would effectively put them out of business for good. Maam Cross Mart is certain to see a great deal of activity and special sales in the very near future as farmers are forced to sell off their stock, a bitter pill to swallow for many. Negotiations on this matter have been practically exhausted by now, and all involved will be watching closely to see how the situation plays out over the coming months and years.

from cerebral palsy and severe scoliosis was my responsibility to feed each day. She had the mental age of a 6 month old baby and that was how I saw her. She loved being tickled and kicking things with her left leg, which was the only limb she had much control over. She was happy. And that was exactly why I had a good time, it was such a cheerful place to live and work as nearly all of these kids are happy. This wasn’t always the case though. When Suzanne arrived in 2002, the orphanage was very quiet, as many of these children had never really been spoken to and so never learnt to speak. Two speech therapists are now employed fulltime by ORM. There were no paths outside the orphanage so the wheelchair-bound children were never brought outside. Among the first acts of Irish builders was to remedy this. There was no heating despite temperatures of -15º Celsius in winter. What particularly impressed me though, is how forward thinking this charity was. Before ORM took over, state law was that these girls be sent to mixed sex adult institutions once they turned 18. I heard a lot of unpleasant stories about these institutions which I was asked not to put into print but at best they could be described as dismal. Four years ago, ORM said they wouldn’t allow any more of their girls to be taken away as they planned on setting them up in sheltered housing adjacent to the orphanage. The building of this village is currently a major goal of Outreach Moldova. Another prerogative is to prepare these girls for this integration into the community. They have started those kids that are able in school at the orphanage and they are starting to pass the state exams. They also have sewing and cookery classes. (If you go along to help out at cookery, they make you eat a very large bowl of whatever tasty dish is on the menu, personally this was my favourite spot in the orphanage!) Leaving the orphanage was very hard. Most of these children will never grow up. But I shouldn’t be sad for them, as long as there are charities like Outreach Moldova and Irish volunteers making sure they get the love and attention they deserve, they will be happy. Thank you so much for all the local support, particularly from Western Veterinary Clinic, the Fruit and Veg shop, Supervalu, EJ Kings, Clifden Supply Centre, the Atlantic Hotel, Clifden Book Shop and Faoin Tuath, who made this possible. Further information about Outreach Moldova can be found at www.outreachmoldova.org or by phoning (01)2751842.

DEATH NOTICES

Lorna Maher (nee Moroney), Nenagh, Co. Tipperary. Oliver Coyne, Gowla, Cashel. Agnes Lee, (nee McDonagh), Yorkshire, formerly of Inishturk. Con McGrath, Cork and Clifden. Peter Conneely, London, formerly of Derrygimbla, Ballyconneely. e Connemara View would like to extend sympathies to the family and friends of the deceased. is list is compiled from various sources and we apologise for any errors or omissions.

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

September 4, 2008

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The Cr ystal Ball By John Amenhauser The Sun crosses the celestial equator at 15:44 UT on Monday September 22nd, the Autumn Equinox. At that point, night and day are of equal length. After this the Sun moves into the southern half of the sky, and for the next six months nights are longer than days. The Moon is Full at 09:13 UT on Monday September 15th, in Pisces. At this phase the Moon is on the opposite side of the sky to the Sun; so it rises in the east at sunset, shines throughout the night, and sets in the west at sunrise the following morning. The September Full Moon is often called the “Harvest Moon”, because it continues to rise around sunset for several evenings in succession, and its light used to help farmers to continue harvesting their fields after the Sun had set. The Moon is New at 08:12 UT on Monday September 29th. We may be able to see the waning “crescent” in the east before sunrise, any morning up to about Sunday 28th. But we won’t see the new crescent in the south-west at sunset until about Sunday October 4th.

Constellation Map

tion); they reappear from behind the dark edge of the Moon, with startling suddenness, about a hour later. Surprisingly, the Moon is not large enough to cover the whole cluster; on this occasion only some of the most northerly (upper) stars will be hidden. The last one will reappear about 5 a.m., just as the sky is beginning to grow light towards dawn. Mercury is at its greatest elongation east of the Sun on September 11th. But throughout the month, it sets less than an hour after sunset, so we won’t be able to see the elusive little planet this month. Venus is also setting less than an hour after sunset, but it’s such a bright planet we may just be able to see it this month, given an unobstructed horizon and a very clear sky. If you can find the crescent Moon low in the southwest at sunset on Saturday September 6th, Venus should be the same distance above the horizon, but about 60 degrees further right. It will appear like a bright, star-like point of light; binoculars may help to locate it. Mars appears to be close to Mercury in the sky this month, and it’s fainter than Mercury, which again means that we won’t be able to see it. Gradually the Red Planet is slipping behind the Sun, though it won’t be directly behind it until December. Jupiter is low in the south at sunset, and sets in the south-west about four hours after the Sun. The giant planet is almost stationary in Sagittarius; this is where the Sun is in January, so it’s not very high above our horizon. Jupiter looks like a very bright, steady star, brighter than any of the genuine stars. But conditions won’t be favourable for making any close observations of it. On the evening of Tuesday September 9th, the gibbous Moon will be almost directly below Jupiter; the two objects will be less than four degrees apart, and should fit together into the same field of view, in a pair of binoculars. Saturn is directly behind the Sun on September 4th; by the end of the month, it should be emerging into the dawn sky. Look for it in the east, just as the sky is beginning to brighten (around 6 am). Relative to the stars, Saturn is moving slowly south-eastwards in Leo; it’s about 15 degrees to the lower left of the bright star Regulus. But Saturn appears brighter than Regulus, or any other star in that part of the sky. Before dawn on Saturday September 27th, the narrow waning Moon will be to the right of Saturn and just a little higher. The two objects will be about 6 degrees apart. Meteors: There are no major meteor-showers in September, though there are various minor showers producing a few meteors an hour from radiants in Cassiopeia, Auriga, Aquarius and Pisces. But this is generally a good time of the year for seeing sporadic meteors, which may appear at any time, in any part of the sky. John Claro

S E P T E M B E R TA RO T R E A D I N G

Past The Tower

Present Knight of Pentacles

Future 5 of Swords

The Tower in the past position is letting you know that the time of change that you did not want is coming to end. Through change we grow. The Knight of Pentacles in the present position is letting you know that by trusting yourself you will choose the right thing or correct path. The 5 of Swords in the future tells you that you will have to fight for what you want and that you will lose supporters as a result of your victory.

SEPTEMBER RUNES READING

There will be surprises coming up for you and you need to do some surprising of your own, have some fun with it. The challenge is that there will be some obstacles in your way as you try to surprise others, go around or over them. The overview says that most of Action Challenge Overview this month will be out of your Initiation Defence Disruption control, hence the need for the (Perth) (Eihwaz) (Hagalaz) surprises and a little fun.

SEPTEMBER HOROSCOPES “You Are Never Without Power”

Aries (Mar 21 Apr 20) Love is in the air this month but think before you act. Rash actions on your part will cause problems in the future. Taurus (Apr 21 – May 20) The Connemara Night Sky on 15 September, 22:30 Your body is telling you one thing, your brain another and your intuLunar Occultations: As the Moon orbits around the ition a completely different thing. Listen to your body this month. Earth, it passes between us and the distant stars. It’s Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21) surprisingly rare for the Moon actually to occult (hide) It’s a bit bumpy out there for you this month Gemini, not to worry, any of the brighter stars. But in the early morning of there will be some highs and lows, take them all in stride. Saturday September 20th, it passes in front of the Cancer ( Jun 22 – Jul 22) Pleiades or “Seven Sisters” star-cluster. Trust in your intuitive capacity to tell right from wrong, black from The Moon will be waxing gibbous, so its eastern edge white, good from bad, you will need to rely on it this month. will be brightly lit, and it moves slowly against the stars Leo ( Jul 23 – Aug 23) from west to east. Binoculars will help to pick out the Someone has done you a good turn in the past and is now in need of stars in the dazzle of moonlight. The first stars in the your support. Make sure you are there for them. cluster will begin to disappear behind the bright edge Virgo (Aug 24 – Sep 22) HAPPY BIRTHDAY! around 2:45 am (the exact time depends on your locaThis is a powerful and spiritual month for you Virgo. Trust your own self and let it guide you in all you do as turn another year wiser. Libra (Sep 23 – Oct 23) Test your knowledge with our new quiz . e person who sends in the ﬁrst correct Even though it feels like all you do is work, work and more work, be set of answers in our 12 categories will receive €10. If nobody wins this month, the proud of the work that you have done, and know that you will be remoney will roll over into the next month...and so on. Send entries to Connemara warded. view, Clifden, Co. Galway or drop in the View Box at the Paper Shop. Scorpio (Oct 24 – Nov 22) Geography: Give the Longitude and Latitude of Ballina, Co. Mayo Time to haul in the benefits of lots of hard work on your part. Make History: When did the Vikings ﬁrst settle in Ireland? sure that you clean up after yourself and do not leave any loose ends. Local Interest: How many salmon were caught in Connemara in 2007? Sagittarius (Nov 23 – Dec 21) Sports: Which county holds the record for most successive camogie titles? The goals and plans that you have set in place will take off like wild Maths: What are all the factors of the number 10? fire this month. Get ready to experience some goodness. Science: What are the top 3 most popular internet activities in 2007? Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 20) Cooking: is common household product was known by 2000 B.C. and was Not really sure what to do this month, maybe this, maybe that, try it originally used as ointment, medicine or illuminating oil. all and see what returns in a positive way. General Knowledge: Bill Gates stopped working at Microsoft full Aquarius ( Jan 21 – Feb 19) time when? (date and year). Romance for you Aquarius, dream of the one you love and see how it Politics: Who was the last US president to be impeached? takes for them to turn up or do something nice for you. Music: Who’s the highest grossing American Idol winner? Pisces (Feb 20 – Mar 20) Art: The famous Van Gogh painting “Look out on a summers day” was Pick a path! There are lots of options open to you right now, don’t painted where? worry about the scope. Just start and if you find a block, change paths. Entertainment: What actor was Al Gore’s freshman roommate at Harvard?

NEW: What Do You Know?

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September 4, 2008

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

What’s the Deal with... In the last month,a significant number of 17 and 18 year olds from all over Connemara got their Leaving Cert results,and put a good deal of time and thought into what to do next.For some of them,the decision had already been made for them,when a parent or friend helped them fill in the CAO form.Others will have known what they wanted for quite a while now,and will stick to their planned trajectories,even if all is not as it seems,as is often the case when embarking on a course of study at university or college. As someone who got her Leaving Cert results 11 years ago, without a great deal of fuss or drama, I am becoming increasingly bored and frustrated with the hysteria and levels of obsessiveness that accompany this event every year.The endless newspaper supplements and radio show discussions would have you believe that the Leaving Cert and its results are the single most important and far-reaching events of a year in the entire spectrum of education. While the event of leaving school is certainly a milestone in life, the levels of scrutiny, judgment and pressure that young people are now put under is truly mind boggling. What’s worse is that they are not doing it to themselves-it is largely adults who compile the endless statistics, write the study guides, write the news articles, dole out the advice and suggestions, praise the successful and pity the underachievers. It was also educated adults who created a system where ability and intelligence are judged by a ridiculously unfair points system, where a number is actually placed on someone’s academic worth, based on how they perform in a sequence of exams. Occasionally, someone sticks their neck out and criticizes the point system, but the Dept of Education seem to be experts at avoidance when taken to task. Fob-offs like the “Applied”leaving

Leaving Cert Madness? Cert make little or no difference to the thousands of students that are forced to undertake a course of study and action that can realistically be of little use or help to them. No significant alternative to the current points system has been properly offered or taken seriously, despite the undeniable fact that those who benefit best from it are the middle and upper classes. In Clifden Community School in 1997, it was not possible to take two science subjects at the same time, due to conflicting timetables, and lack of teaching staff. I will stress that this was not the fault of the school itself, but of the budget and framework it exists within. Courses of study like Pharmacy, Veterinary, Medicine or Dentistry require a minimum of two science subjects. Therefore a student of Clifden School was automatically denied access to these courses, unless they or their parents were in a financial situation to pay for private tuition outside of regular school.To my dismay, I find that this is still the case, with many teenagers going to extra lessons in Galway in evenings or weekends, just as they were doing 10 years ago. The staff of Clifden School have always been of a high quality and I honestly believe that it a truly unique institution in the country with regards to its rich cultural and artistic influences. That its students are graded by points on a slip of paper at the end of six years there irritates the hell out of me, just like it did when I was there.The difference is that with the hindsight of having gone to university, I can now see the current system for what it really is, and express it. It is an unfair, disproportionate practice of judging and grading young people. I would argue the point with anyone that it is absolutely not representative of someone’s intelligence, ability or skill. It’s never been easy being a

Still in the

Q: We have just returned from a package holiday in Spain. Unfortunately the holiday was a disaster as we did not have the hotel facilities that were promised in the brochure. Is there anything I can do about it in terms of making a complaint and getting our money back? Yes, there is.The Package Holidays and Travel Trade Act 1995 gives you a certain level of protection if the package holiday is not be satisfactory or if the operator goes out of business. A package holiday is defined as one sold at an inclusive price that covers a period of more than 24 hours or overnight accommodation, and is made up of a combination of at least two of the following pre-arranged by the operator/organizer: transport; accommodation; or other tourist services accounting for a significant proportion of the package. You are entitled to compensation if you suffered a financial loss as a result of relying on the information given to you about your package holiday. You can also claim compensation if you are disappointed at thequality of the holiday. If the brochure was inaccurate, or things went wrong during the holiday itself, you can look to the tour operator and/or the travel agent for compensation. If you return from your holiday and your complaints have not been resolved you must lodge a complaint to the tour operator in writing within 28 days. If you are not satisfied with the response, you can take the complaint to the Small Claims Court for a fee of €15 if your claim is for €2,000 or less. For larger amounts you will need to take your claim to the District Court or the Circuit Court. If your holiday is altered or canceled, you have the right to either a replacement package of similar or superior quality, a lower grade package plus compensation up to the cost of the original package, or a full refund. Alternatively you can sue for breach of contract. If, however, cancellation was caused by factors beyond the organizer’s control, or the minimum number for the package was not reached and you were given the required notice of this in writing, you will not be entitled to any compensation. If a travel agent or tour operator becomes bankrupt, the Commission for Aviation Regulation will make refunds to customers or arrange to transport them home if necessary. Further information is available from Clifden Citizens Information Centre, which provides a free and confidential service to the public.Thursdays 7pm to 8pm & Fridays 1030am to 330pm. You can leave a message anytime on 095 22000 or 087 1301100 / Email: clifden.cic@comhairle.ie Address: c/o VEC Offices, Statoil Apartments, Galway Road, Clifden. Letterfrack Information service: If you have any questions about Social Welfare, Housing, Consumer Affairs, Employment, Education or your rights and entitlements in general, contact us on 095-22000 or 087-1301100 or call in.130pm to 430pm / Venue: Connemara West, September 2008 Tuesday 9th & Tuesday 23rd. Citizens Information is also available online at www.oasis.gov.ie and from the Citizens Information Phone Service, Lo-Call 1890 777 121.

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

teenager and probably never will be, but surely they could do without being made to feel like the course of their entire life is going to be mapped out by two week of exams, and that success or failure is everything. There is far, far more to life than college and the Leaving Cert , and it might be refreshing to see that point put across a little more in the national media. I seriously doubt that the GCSE’s in the U.K. or equivalent exams in other European countries incite quite the same level of national or media exposure, for such a prolonged period of the year.To be cynical though, one also might consider the vast amount or revenue generated by “cramming schools”and private tuition, and consider the interests of those businesses.They have made passing exams a business , just like any other, and certainly ply a lucrative trade. It would certainly not be in their interests for the current system to change. The Leaving Cert looms ahead of almost all young people in this country. We hear very little about the amounts of students who drop out of school to work, or for poverty or family related reasons, or out of sheer frustration.The Irish Times dedicated Leaving Cert diarist this year was a girl who was doing the exam for the third time in an effort to get into Dentistry or Medicine in Trinity College, the only courses she was willing to consider. Is this a good representation of the average Leaving Cert student in Ireland today? Having been one, I don’t think so.Thankfully the whole shambles of a system is a distant memory for me now, but I would never discourage anyone from following their career dreams, and taking whatever steps are necessary to achieve that. However, life in general is full of twists and turns, good and bad surprises and discoveries. Pinning all your hopes and feelings of self worth on a number of points obtained in an exam seems hollow and meaningless to me. Catherine Pryce

Slow Lane...

Years after all the promises, most of Connemara is still waiting for long-promised Government-sponsored MANS (Metropolitan Area Networks) broadband penetration. Progress seems to wax and wane like the phases of some irritating moon, distorted occasionally by the pull of a local (gas-giant) election. Remember when they dug up Clifden’s streets to lay fibre-optic cable? Well, it’s still not connected to anything. Letters, please, to all local politicians. Critical infrastructure should not be left to market forces, Connemara and Ireland need this NOW! To find out what type of broadband is available there is a Government broadband website http://www.broadband.gov.ie. Choose your location and it will tell you what type of services are available to you. Unfortunately, when I did this for the Clifden/Ballyconneely/Cleggan areas, the information displayed was pretty inaccurate, a waste of time really. What we have in rural Connemara is basically two providers, Lighthouse Networks and DigiWeb: for 1Mb: Lighthouse: €200 installation, €35/month; DigiWeb: €146.41 installation; €34.99/month. Broadband types are: DSL Broadband: Broadband over copper wires, a broadband signal is also sent down your phoneline. The further you are from your phone exchange, the weaker the signal and the slower the speed. Still, pretty bullet-proof. Cable: This is broadband over the same fibreoptic cable or cable network that brings you your TV signal. You don’t need a phone line. NTL and Chorus are the main providers of cable broadband in Ireland. NTL makes you sign up for their TV service. Wireless: Companies like Clearwire and Irish Broadband offer services where all you need is a small device plugged into your computer to receive

September 4, 2008

a broadband signal. No wires and no aerials are needed for their basic services. For those that don’t want a phone line, this will save you paying over €25 just for a copper line. Higher-end services do require an antenna on the roof. Other providers such as Digiweb also offer wireless services and again you need an antenna on the roof but don’t need a phone line. Wireless 3G: Using a small USB modem, you can receive relatively fast broadband, no matter what your location. Many wireless and telephone broadband blackspots are able to receive 3G signals so if your line fails the broadband test, look at maybe getting 3G. Wireless WiMax: A still developing wireless technology, Irish Broadband have been claiming to be offering it of late. Their equipment supplier has it alright, not sure has it actually been deployed to their customer base. Beware-Not Broadband:Some providers claim to supply “broadband” services or broadband-like services. Unless something is an always-on, two-way service with proper service and without lag, then it cannot be called broadband. Satellite Internet: This is high speed Internet. Expensive to install for two-way. Speeds range from 512k down 128up to 2mb down (theoretical) and 1mb up. Other services (rotten mutton dressed as lamb) offering “satellite broadband” but are in fact one way broadband services, where you have to upload over dialup which will either cost you per minute or cost you the price of a flatrate dialup package, which only allows you 150-210 hours per month usage. A rip. ISDN: Just about faster than dialup, this very expensive service is still offered to people who want broadband. A complete rip-off, where are you are charged the price of two phone calls if you want to use the 128k version of this. Avoid like a lead surfboard. John Claró is an international I.T. Consultant with over 20 years experience offering all kinds of computer sales, training, websites, services and repairs at Two Dog Computers,The Square, Clifden. He can be contacted on 095 22194 or kennel@twodogcafe.ie.

PAGE 31

This is a busy time in the garden, the spring bulbs will be appearing in the shops and we have all that planting to think about. I know it is a little early, but as I always say, buy early to get the best selection. They may not necessarily be the cheapest but there is a chance of finding something different if you shop early. I like to buy at least one big sack of mixed daffodils/narcissi, which work out at good value. If you do purchase bulbs and don’t intend planting them straight away, make sure that you keep them dry and cool, and in a fairly dark place. If they get wet they can rot, and if they are in a sunny and warm place they can start sprouting. I will talk about bulbs and the planting possibilities in more detail next month. A couple of gardening questions which have come to me since last months issue. One concerned vine weevil; what is this and how does it affect the plants?

PAGE 32

The vine weevil is a fat white larvae of a beetle, which hatches out in the soil after the beetle has deposited eggs in spring and summer. Most of the damage occurs between the autumn and spring. They grow to about 1 cm. long and are usually curved, they have brown heads and no legs. They attack plants in the soil and so often healthy looking plants will suddenly wilt and die. It is important to check new plants for the pest. If you find an infested plant it is best to remove all the soil and wash the roots thoroughly in water, perhaps with a little disinfectant. The infested soil should be destroyed-throwing it into a flower bed or in the compost is only asking for trouble. You can buy nematodes which can be watered onto the compost late in the summer. The adult vine weevil which is a greyish black beetle about 9 mm long, is not always easy to see as it tends to feed at night and sleep by day. The most obvious damage it causes is to leaves,

where it cuts irregular holes in the edge of the leaves making them look unsightly but not causing as much damage as the juvenile. Containers are particularly affected and it is not a bad idea to change the soil in containers every year or so. Care must be taken that you don’t re-introduce the pest again when you replant. The second question comes back to one which I was asked last year. What are those tall grey plants with the yellow flowers? The are verbascum or mullion, a wild flower which looks great at this time of the year. It is a biennial which means that it flowers every second year. The trick with biennials is to have some flowering each year. This plant which you can see in various places around Connemara should never be dug up, this goes for all wild flowers but seed should be collected. You only need a few and once they start in your garden you can take as much seed as you like. They like growing on gravel and so it is good to plant them in well drained sandy soil. You can also buy different types of verbascum at garden centres. These come in various colours and sizes and are great for the herbaceous border. Another question asked concerned a blank wall, and plants which would be suitable to grow in front of or on this wall? Climbers and wall plants offer a new dimension to the garden, they don’t take up much ground space yet can grow high and wide, covering very large areas and offering you the opportunity to grow other plants through them. They can cover up the ugliest wall fairly quickly or be trained up dead trees or through boring hedging adding a touch of exotic to a plain surface. There are a vast number of climbers, literally something for every situation. There are evergreen plants, deciduous ones, ones with flowers and or fruits and very colourful leaved ones. The most obvious climbers are ivies. Any old ruin, tree or telephone pole will eventually play host to the common ivy, love it or hate it, there is no doubt that it covers everything fairly quickly and disguises whatever is underneath. But there is no need to stick to the plain green, there is a wonderful silver/white one Hedera helix ‘Eva‘, and two superb gold/yellow ones Hedera helix ‘Goldheart’, and Hedera helix ‘Buttercup’. There is even a couple of purple coloured ones- my favourite is Hedera helix ‘Atropupurea’. Ivy can take up to a year to establish itself, but then it grows rapidly. It is happy being cut back, so you can clip it into shape around windows or doors. Of course they also self cling so there is no need to put up any supporting wires. Once the plants have established themselves fully they are the ideal location for planting climbing roses

September 4, 2008

sweet pea or clematis. These other plants need support and the ivy provides that. For drama it is hard to beat Parthenocissus tricuspidata or Boston Ivy, this plant

also self clings and will cover a large expanse of wall fairly quickly. Its spectacular crimson colour in autumn is the highlight for many gardens. Its main drawback is that it loses its leaves and the bare stems look a little strange against the wall. Another favourite is Hydrangea pertiolaris or the climbing hydrangea, this also self clings and has wonderful white flowers. Unfortunately it also loses its leaves, but there is an evergreen variety. One of my favourites is Wisteria, this has the most wonderful purple/ blue flowers in spring, these look like bunches of grapes hanging down from the twining stem. The leaves are great throughout the summer and into autumn, but it also loses its leaves. This is not 100 per cent happy in Connemara, but I have an ancient plant growing around the house which seems to be happy where it is. One drawback is that it takes a long time to establish. There are also white flowering varieties. One way to cover up the bare branches would be to plant an evergreen clematis such as Clematis armandii which would be happy scrambling through the bare branches. Clematis and Wisteria need support so you will have to put in wire or trellis for them. I am not going to go into clematis or roses as there is such a variety of both of these other than to suggest that if you want to make an impact in spring, Clematis Montana, can’t be beaten and the wonderful red Rose Dublin Bay is striking throughout the summer. Another group of plants which can be useful in this situation are wall shrubs. These are plants which like the shelter and warmth from walls and one of my favourite of these is Garrya elliptica which is grown for its evergreen leaves and long catkins a well grown one is spectacular. I recently came across an interesting idea for a wall shrub, a fuchsia trained against a wall and clipped around windows, its was very effective and I would like to explore the idea. I hope that this has given you some ideas for your bare walls. Happy Gardening. Breandan O Scanaill

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

On the Grapevine… Wines with an Irish Flavour

the Pic St. Loup and close to the cities of Nimes, Montpellier and Avignon. They have 145 acres of grapes and produce about 300,000 bottles of various wines each year. The grapes are organically grown, using liquid seaweed from Co. Donegal as fertiliser which also protects the vines during the hot Summer months. The wine is produced using no additives. The Galway Bay was their first offering to the home market. The location of their wine cave is on a little hill called “Colline d’Espere” meaning “Hill of Hope” and this is the name on most of their labels. There are 11 different grape varietals, all of which are blended, with excellent results. “The Hooker”, their newest offering, which should be available soon, is an oak aged Merlot, blended with a special Grenache which is a rich ripe fruity and full-bodied wine, classic like the boat it is called after. This summer, my biggest selling wine was their white ‘La Petite Colline d’Espere’, a delightful and somewhat unusual blending of Sauvignon, Rousanne, Chardonnay and Picpoul. Priced at €10.50, it was excellent value for money and the most expensive GWP wine is €12.95. Wine has been produced in Languedoc for more than 2000 years. The Greeks, and later the Romans, established colonies to produce wine and olives. In later times the area produced high volumes of weaker wine to blend with the strong wine imported from the North African colonies. During the 1960’s the vines were replanted with the high volume, stronger, but undistinguished Carignan grapes. With the worldwide excess production of wine, the Languedoc area has been actively replanting with varieties which produce quality wines. Today, increasingly, Grenache, Syrah, Merlot, Cinsaut, Mourvedre, Sauvignon and Viognier are used for wine making. Languedoc has become a highly respected producer of quality wines, and many domains now produce wines that command high prices. The “appellation” Wines of the Languedoc covers 120,000 acres of vines on the slopes and garrigues of Languedoc producing red, rose Photos: and white wine. Four departments of Above: A Languedoc vineyard the Languedoc-Roussillon, Gard, Below: Noel O’Loghlen, founder of Galway Wine Herault, Aude and Pyrenees OrienProducers testing the casks. tales share the biggest French vineyards.

To the disappointment of many overseas visitors to Clifden, I am forced to admit that I do not sell any local wines or, for that matter, Irish wines. This summer, while experiencing our climate, it was somewhat easier to explain why. But, in true Irish fashion and following the path of the famous Wild Geese, we now have Galway Wine Producers, a group of Galway investors, headed by Noel O’Loughlen, making some wonderful, well-priced wine in the south of France. Noel, originally from Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare, has worked for over 40 years in the wine trade and many may have met and enjoyed his expertise on wine in the Noble Vine in Galway. To say Noel has an encyclopaedic knowledge of oenology is not an exaggeration. In the past few years, this knowledge has been put to practical use and the results are outstanding. Deep in the Languedoc, at the foothills of the Cevennes, are the villages of Saint Jean De Serres , Canaules , Savinargues and Saint Theodorit . On the slopes around this cluster of villages is the location of their vines. This part of the Languedoc is steeped in history and has a long tradition of vine growing and making wines. Their vineyards are adjacent to the famous wine district of

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

Fabulous Freezer Food For most people, freezer food conjures up images of boring shop-bought frozen meals. In fact, used wisely, a freezer can be a cook’s most useful tool. With a little imagination and organization, the freezer can be the key to healthy hassle-free cooking. Simply follow these handy hints and get fabulous freezer food fast. •Invest in some equipment; plastic containers in various sizes and some adhesive labels. •Divide freezer into sections; one for cooked foods, one for raw foods and one specifically for ingredients. •Label and date everything you put into your freezer. Also keep an outside master list. This will help to remind you of when individual items may be going out of date. •Become familiar with foods that can be frozen. Most recipes now contain footnotes outlining their suitability to freezing. Here is a list of some everyday food items that can be frozen, in addition to the obvious breads and meats. •All nuts. Just wrap tightly, then simply toast on a dry pan directly from frozen. •Most cheeses, especially soft cheeses such as mozzarella, goats and feta cheeses. •Oriental products, such as chillis and lemongrass. Wrap individually in cling film for a handy addition to your cooking. •Freeze berries before they spoil, then add directly to smoothies and crumbles. •Herbs don’t freeze very well. However, if they are mixed with some butter they can be frozen in individual portions to create a tasty sauce in seconds. •Put leftover wine in ice-cube trays and freeze for sauces. This also works well with coconut milk, lemon or lime juice. •Whizz up leftover breads in a food processor and freeze for instant breadcrumbs to add to recipes. •When making time consuming meals such as bolognaise, casseroles or soups, make double or triple the quantity and freeze the excess for future meals. As far as desserts are concerned, why not take the hassle out of entertaining by making it in advance and freezing it. Sponges, crumbles and tarts all freeze perfectly. •Finally, experiment with what works for you. After all, Eskimos have been freezing their food for thousands of years, so why not give it a go! Claire Griffin, Steam Café.

Between them they produce. 40% of the French production, with 18% in A.O.C and 70% in Vins de Pays. Currently, there are 6 different wines available from Galway Wine Producers. Noel and the wine he is making in St. Jean de Serres was featured this year on the RTE program, Ear to the Ground. I have no doubt but that we’ll be hearing lots about these wonderful well-priced wines. Helen Ferguson, Ferguson Fine Wines

September 4, 2008

PAGE 33

The Connemara View Crossword No. 48 !

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ACROSS 8. Unflinching intrepid (8) 9. Fuel ignited by compression (6) 10. Underling (6) 11. Omit (5,3) 12. U.S. gasoline (6) 13. Downhearted (8) 15. Direction (4) 17. Impedes (7) 19. Birds of prey (7) 22. Mate could be pacified (4) 24. Ocean (8) 27. Kidnap (6) 29. Kids love this veg (8) 30. Dried grape (6) 31. Meteor is distant (6) 32. British vehicle marque. Irish Opel (8)

DOWN 1. Popular Volkswagon or insect (6) 2. Protected from armed attack (8) 3. Dealer in gems (8) 4. To no avail (7) 5. Warded off this prince (6) 6.Flash photography problem (3-3) 7. Firmly. Immovably(8) 14. Minute particle (4) 16. Italian wine (4) 18. World wide web (8) 20.Once plentiful fish species (3-5) 21. This means stop (3-5) 23. Accomplish (7) 25. Mooring device. Mainstay (6) 26. Gardeners implement (6) 28. Cool (6)

ACROSS 8 This would sound long for it? (4) 9 Is Soho, corpse mutilated? They show signs of the stars’ involvement. (10) 10 I act strange in extremely true fashion. (8) 11 Stitch to repair damaged womb in other words. (6) 12 Retains protective structures of old? (5) 13 Cone crumbled, but not for a second time? (4) 15 Thus, father became known as Pop in America. (4) 18 Colourful flower dance? (4,6,5) 20 Express happiness on getting the drink just about right? (4) 21 It’s quite simple when viewed in true asymmetry. (4) 22 It’s a cold craft, this, whichever way you look at it. (5) 25 Put mongrel dog on old lamb meat. (6) 27 After fifty one for Caesar, give out the rest free? (8) 28 It’ll be ludicrous if I get involved. Ludicrous! (10) 29 Though no longer young, fit a foreign agent about right? (4)

Bogman 42

17 18

24 25

DOWN 1 Though confused, I recall new booze store. (4,6) 28 29 2 About the seductress, you can carry out a major overhaul. (6) 3 It’s cleaner when I am in it, sitting. (5) 4 How to ask the powers that be, that your salary will be about right. (4) Enter answers into draw of correct anwers for a voucher 5 Erroneously see coils when there is just a for Homeware Plus in Clifden by September 24th. triangle of sorts. (9) Winner Bogman41 : Hubert Delappe,Cleggan.ConnemaraView47 : Mairtín OMaille,Maam 6 Possibly shot near an area roughly to the east of Yorkshire. (5,3) Answer s to Bogman 41 & Connemara View 47 7 Rush up for the beast. (4) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 S H O C K I N E D U C A T E D S U F F E R 14 Have words with the sisters about nothing? (5) S L I G H T I L E L N W N I R O O E A 16 Broken cart stored with those who are 9 10 P O L L E N F R U I T F U A S T H M A D I A M O N D S 11 highly critical of one. (10) M V E O F E L E A B V M S I P 17 During reconstruction, uncovers a huge 12L E G A L 13O P E 14R A T I N G H A S T E M A N I F E S T 15 space. (9) T N E E C T O R A F T I L N I 19 The real genius of the troubled nineties? (8) 16W E A R Y 17T I 18M B 19E R R O A D S R E C E D E 20 21 R E G U A A 23 A +? Shouldn’t this be in the previous S L A O E X D R E 22 23 24 O S T E N D L A T H section? (6) E N A M E L C R I M E 25 26 27 C A G U M T 24 When the bay is choppy, the ship is on 28U C C O R E S L B 29 30 31 A M A Z P L A S T E R E D L I T R E A B O R I G I N E the deep. (5) R N R L T C H E Y L A A D 26 Unhealthy beginning with lousy sign, but 32W N 33 G A N G S T E R P I C K L A N O R E X I A T E N N I S just the one. (4) E E N A E R E R N N C E E 27 I leave the county for the country. (4) 34 35 R A R I T I E S E N E R G D I S P E R S E

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September 4, 2008

A T T E N D

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

G A L L O N C E M E T E R Y

FINANCIAL ADVICE - Recession proof your business Now that the autumn is almost upon us, we can relax (somewhat) and take stock of where the business is, as we head into the traditionally quieter periods of the Connemara business cycle. Based on the prognostications of the various economists and business commentators, we are potentially heading for a very challenging time both in consumer spending, employment prospects and the general health in the government finances. This will be the first taste of such unpalatable economic news for many younger people. In fact, we have been living through, almost without interruption, a period of quite spectacular growth in our economy and government tax receipts for the last 16 or so years. Well, like all good parties, they eventually come to an end, and like all good parties one of the keys to surviving the period after the party is to have a good hangover cure. Make no mistake, there will be a deal of pain to be taken by many businesses and individuals until the dust settles and sustained growth returns to the Irish economy in general. It is clear that in an open economy like Ireland’s, things can change very quickly for the worse, and to postpone or long finger changes to the way you do business may lead to the potential downturn having a much greater impact on your financial health and well being, that might have been the case had you been better prepared. There are a few things which you can do to ensure that your business sees though the more challenging times ahead. What is important is that a review of current operations and practices is taken at the earliest opportunity. But first, what exactly is a recession and what does it mean for business customers? Firstly, the technical definition of a recession is where a national economy has negative growth for a period of 6 months. This is termed a recession. On the ground, what it means for a lot of businesses is that there will tend to be fewer customers, and the customers you do

Lawyer’s Corner A Will May Not Be Enough

We all know that we should make our Will and that the Will should be reviewed regularly. There are many advantages to having made a Will and these advantages centre around preventing chaos and confusion on your death. A Will, however, only speaks from the date of the death and only deals with our possessions at that time. But what happens to us when we continue to live and maybe live without the benefit of good health? We are apparently living longer now. We will be living a greater portion of our lives as older people and this can bring challenges that earlier generations didn’t have to address. As a solicitor however, it seems to me that old age is not always or necessarily the problem. Many older clients are living very independently and healthily. The problem would appear to be incapacity when we can no longer live independently. Incapacity isn’t always age related, though often is. In this article, I will outline some of the challenges that incapacity presents and will suggest some possible safeguards that can be put in place. However, it is very much the case that there are many challenges for which currently there are no adequate solutions, legal or otherwise. As a solicitor, I find that increasingly, many people are finding themselves in very vulnerable positions as their health deteriorates and they can no longer live independently. Even if the vulnerable person has sufficient funds to pay for care (whether residential or in-house) it may prove difficult accessing these funds when the vulnerable person has lost capacity. So, what should we do? For many carers who are already

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

have will tend to be spending that bit less. A recession will tend to change the spending habits of all except the very rich and the poor, who studies have shown tend to be unaffected in reality by the cyclical nature of the economy. But for the majority of the customers we have in Connemara, there has to be a recognition that spending habits are on the move and businesses need to look at their own operations to see that they are well equipped to meet the needs of the new consumer. Not all businesses are adversely affected in a downturn. In fact some businesses do better when there is less money around. McDonald’s have recorded one of their strongest months performance in recent years in July. Why? Well families still want to go out and be fed but don’t necessarily want to pay a high price for it any more. McDonald’s fits that need and so are perfectly placed to meet the needs of the new consumer. The key is peoples’ desires don’t necessarily change in a recession, but the amount they are willing to pay for it does. There will still be holidays, eating out, and clothing purchases etc, but it needs to be at a price which is attractive to a consumer that has their confidence shaken a little in the last 12 months. The first rule of business never changes. Give the customer what he wants! So what should businesses do? The first thing is to look at the customer base and estimate to what extent your core group of customers might be affected by a downturn. If you identify a grouping that is important to the business then estimate how sensitive they are to your current pricing structure. If there is likely to be a cut in their spending then you need to look at your product mix and see if there is anything that can be done to make the product mix more affordable. People will still like to shop but if everything in your shop is high quality and therefore, expensive; unless you have the necessary inflation-proof high net worth clientele, you might find sales dropping off in the looking after incapacitated or elderly dependent relatives, it may be too late. Such carers are left providing the care themselves, with the benefit of home help arrangements (which may be patchy) or trying to ascertain the best residential options available. It is a thankless job in many cases. Many carers are left wondering who would care for them should they become ill. There have been some improvements at governmental level. In December, 2006, Minister for Health, Mary Harney, announced a package to develop services for older people and the bulk of this money will be used to develop home care packages, home help, day care services and sheltered housing. While these developments are long overdue and are to be welcomed, we should aim to plan ahead for, and take control of our own futures! There is no guarantee that one will receive home help, even if one satisfies the HSE’s means test as much will depend on staffing levels in the area. There are, however, some basic arrangements that can be put in place and should at least be considered. Since 1996, there is an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) option available in place of the Wards of Court procedure. This allows a person (known as the donor) to appoint another person (known as the Attorney who is usually a family member, not a legal practitioner) to deal with their affairs should they later become incapacitated. You will need to engage a solicitor to put it in place. It also helps to have a plentiful supply of family members as there are roles for Attorneys, Substitute Attorneys and Notice Parties! Ensure that your Attorney is trustworthy and sufficiently skilled or appoint two Attorneys to act jointly and thus limit the opportunity for abuse. Please note that an Attorney cannot make decisions under an EPA that extend to medical treatment. But what if you are mentally healthily but your mobility is severely restricted? You should consider executing a “simple Power of Attorney form” appointing an Attorney to look after your affairs while you are immobilised. This Power would be effective until such time as your mental capacity diminishes and the Enduring Power of Attorney form (previously executed) can be activated. It is a very simple form but is very useful.

September 4, 2008

coming months. All businesses need to add a value range to their offering to ensure the till keeps ringing. For example, if you are a restaurant this could be an early bird menu or putting something cheaper on the main menu, just to allow consumers to go out and not feel they have overspent. One of the key components of a business being able to deal with reduced sales, but maintain business profitability, is to tackle costs. This column has often referred to the needs of business to control what leaves the till as opposed to being totally consumed with what goes into the till. In any business, the key benchmark of how much money it makes is not its sales but its net profit (after tax). In fact, a business which has controlled its costs (purchases, payroll, insurance, banking, tax, etc) will be in a much better position to offer its customers more value than a badly run business which needs to charge more because its costs are so high. In the current climate, value equals survival and a business which is run inefficiently and has accumulated bad and costly practises over the years may struggle to continue in business without a radical new approach being developed. A recession (if it eventually arrives) poses challenges and opportunities for everyone. Those businesses that embrace the challenge and identify and tackle the potential problems will be able to steer through the choppy waters until growth in the economy returns. It was once remarked that the definition of stupidity was to keep doing the same thing over and over but to expect a different result. Every business should be constantly reviewed by the owners to see how well they are doing and if things could be better. Successful business people tend to set goals and constantly review the performance against them. They use their professional advisors to help run the business into the future not just telling them how the business was 12 months ago. The world is constantly changing; your business needs to keep up. Declan Mannion Mannion Lochrin & Co, Chartered Accountants, Market Street, Clifden. 095 30030. e-mail: declan@mannion-lochrin.com Many people in Ireland today want to have some input into the medical treatment they are to receive should they not have sufficient capacity at the appropriate time to state their wishes. There is much talk in the USA about “living wills” or, as they are also called, “Advance Directives”. In Ireland, there is no legislation yet in relation to Advance Directives and so the legal position is somewhat unclear. This is a document whereby a person sets out the basis upon which medical and health care decisions can be made if he or she becomes mentally incapable. It is not an option that will appeal to everyone. Most of the wishes expressed relate to treatment in certain extreme situations and it might prove of some persuasive value in those situations. In summary, EPAs, Simple Powers of Attorney forms and Advance Directives are some of the arrangements we should consider putting in place as a form of later life planning and incapacity management. It would also be useful to find out about the care options available too, including residential homes. Make sure to let your family and friends know your preferences in this regard. And of course, don’t forget to make your Will! Sara Horan, Solicitor, BA (Mod.), Diploma in Legal Studies, Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge, Diploma in Property Tax. Oughterard. 091-866992

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Wedding Bells

Christening

Congratulations to Gráinne Berry and Seán Gavin of Kingstown, who were married on August 23rd at Kingstown Church followed by a reception at the Station House Hotel, Clifden. Photo by Padraic Lyden. John Conneely of Roscahill and Pauline Walsh of Leam were married at Oughterard Church on the 8th of August, and were joined by family and friends at a reception afterwards at Oranmore Lodge Hotel. Photo by Padraic Lyden. Martin Early of Ballyconneely and Maria Clerkin of Roslea were married at St Tierneys Church in Fermanagh on 25th July. The reception was held at the Four Seasons Hotel and was attended by 250 guests from all over Ireland, England and the U.S.A., where Martin and Maria live. Lavinia Bray and Brian O Malley of Clifden were married at St. John the Apostle Church, Galway on the 19th July with a reception afterwards at the Galway Bay Hotel.

Ella Coohill was christened at Ballyconneely Church on Saturday August 30th with proud parents Michael and Eileen.

Mini Marathon Fifteen women from North Connemara took part in the Flora Women’s Mini marathon in Dublin on June 2nd. They raised €4,118 for Cancer Care West and €1,095 for the Lifeboat Station in Clifden. The ladies would like to extend special thanks to all who supported them, especially Michael Nee Bus Hire.

Cornamona Debs The Scoil na gCeard Naomh Fheicin, Cornamona Debs ball took place in The Connemara Gateway Hotel on Thursday August 14th last. Photo: Back (l-r) Ciaran Waters, Eamonn Keane, Christopher Walsh, Stephen Lydon, Tomas Joyce. Front: Sarah Flynn, Maria Gorman, Annmarie Heward, Karen Keane, Aisling Keegan, Jennifer Mannion, Ailish Glynn, Michelle Cosgrove and Sinead Coyne. Photo by Tom Broderick.

Sean Nos Dancing Award Teresa Gibbons (16) of Ardbear, Clifden, came second in the Under 17 Sean Nós dancing category at the World Fleadh, Ireland’s biggest Irish and Celtic music festival in Portlaoise in early August.

Another All-Ireland for Galway! Tommy Sheridan of Roundstone won 1st in Electrical Installation Award in the National Skills Competition of Ireland in Cork which was held in June. His sponsors were Peter Curran Electrical in Galway and Sally and Gerry Lyons of Molly’s Bar in Letterfrack. Photo: Receiving the Award, Tommy is shown with (l-r) Brendan J Murphy, President of the Cork Institute of Technology; Batt O’Keefe, Minister of Education; and Michael Hourihan, Chairman of the National Skills Organising Committee. The Sheridan family; John, Carole and John Jr.; and Deirdre Lyons.

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September 4, 2008

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

Oughterard Show: Ridden Championships

“All of the British riders have had the most wonderful time and enjoyed success and weather here at Oughterard.” The seventh annual Performance championships at The senior Derby was won by Oughterard show last Saturday had five Performance Joan Dahill’s Grainagh Meade championships and two derbys sponsored by Horse ridden by Pauline Dahill who Sport Ireland who provided beautiful rugs and sashes, presented by Breeding manager Nicholas Finnerty to the looked at ease over a lovely course winners. Nine ponies with riders travelled from the U.K. built by Martin Sweeney. The under sixteen Derby class to participate over two days. On Saturday the Supreme was staged as dusk was falling. International Performance championship provided Lady Hemphill’s Tulira Katie owner Sara Hodgkins from Oxford with the winners Daly ridden by Elaine Creaven prize as Golden Island Star who qualified in England from Headford was well produced and won the working hunters (O.16) Ridden by Sonya by Geraldine Gallagher and Pat Fitch Peyton from Berkshire who also collected the Dillon at Corrandulla. She was leading overseas rider over sixteen said “It is my first foot perfect over a tough course visit to Ireland and this Connemara experience is more much to the delight of her owner than ever we expected - just wonderful”. The eight year by Monaghanstown Fionn and Golden Girl was bred in who was present to see all the classes. Creaven also finished Athlone by John Galvin and exported to Wales where second on her fathers Rinneharley his owner found him three years ago. The working hunter under 16 championship was won Michelle and earned herself the leading rider under sixteen award. by last years reserve champion Ceide Rose owned by Emily McCann from Wicklow Clare Brown from Downpatrick Co.Down and ridden received the over sixteen equivaby her daughter, Nicola. She was bought as a foal at lent award and Becky Goodwyn Maam Cross nine years ago. Frank Creaven from Headford watched his Rinnehar- from the British tean won the leading under sixteen overseas rider sash. Elizabeth Lyons was on the champion ridden pony at Clifden, Mister What, ney Michelle ridden by Elaine Creaven take the the andcame second in both the senior working hunter and ridden classes. working hunter (U.20) section. The big event on Sunday was the 25th Anniversary of the Ridden Performance In the junior Ridden championship (U.16) Padraig Championship sponsored by Powers Quarry. Seventeen qualifiers from Ireland Caferty from Swinford had the seven-year-old gelding and Britain lined up for top honours and it was evident that all riders were on Emers Boy in fine form and rider Philippa Scott from Ballina was at her best, and duly collected the all-impor- alert that perfection was essential. Alicia Devlin Byrne on the Ballinalee qualifier Blackwood Fernando never put a foot wrong but got a very close call from tant red ribbons. The senior ridden championship went across the sea to the Claremorris qualifier Lady Hemphill’s Tulira Katie Daly and rider Elaine Creaven, two super ponies with riders who could fly the Irish flag in any part of owner/rider Katherine Wilkinson from Shipley, YorkEurope. Ruth Rogers shire with Delmrose Applejack by Village Canal Beau Photos: Aime FitzSimons on Killary Cashel, winner of the over 14 International who performed with elegance and presence. The ridden stallions are always of interest. British Chef Connemara Performance Championship with Nicholas Finnerty ( CEO of Horse board ), Eamonn McGeogh (Chairman of the Oughterard ShowSoc) de Quipe Peter Fitzimons watched his daughter Amie and Geraldine Gallagher (Performance Secretary). Emir’s Boy ridden by EmFitzimons in total control of her mount Killary Cashel ily Wilkinson, who came 1st in the U/16 in the Working Hunter Group. Tulira ahead of Celtic Moy Sailor owned by Paddy Havens Katie Daly,rider Elaine Creaven, (Owner: Lady Anne Hemphill) came 1st from Monastrevin. Afterwards a very proud father said

in the U/16 Derby and 2nd in the U/16 International Connemara Performance Championship Working Hunter. Golden Island Star won the Supreme Champion of the Performance Class. Pat Dillon presenting the Michael Dillon Perpetual Cup to Sonya Fitch Peyton. Photos by Tom Broderick

Oughterard Show Sports U/6 ball throw: 1st Gavin Walsh, 2nd Jessica Connor, 3rd Cian Diviney. U/12 100 m: 1st Gary Heﬀernan, 2nd Ultan Larney, 3rd Colm Molloy. U/10 girls: 1st Sinead Heﬀernan, 2nd Becky Ni Eallaithe, 3rd Aisling Boyle (whose brother, Niall, accepted the medal on her behalf ). Photos by Tom Broderick

Oughterard Dog Show Photos from top left: Adam Kelly and Emily Loughnane with 2 setters and a pointer which were placed. Sheepdog trials. Paddy O’Flaherty presents the perpetual trophy to Joe Joyce who came 1st and 2nd with Roy and Gwen. In the photo (l-r) 6th: Christy Duggan with Sheba, John Tunney ( Judge ), 5th Paddy Hopkins with Fay, 4th Paddy O’Flaherty with Ben, 3rd K. Doherty with Craig, and 2nd & 1st Joe Joyce with Roy & Gwen. Supreme Dog Champion: Martin Fallon from Clareview, Tuam, with an English Cocker Spaniel called Susie. Back (l-r): Janine Donner ( Judge), Roger Thomas (Chief Steward) and Patrick Donner ( Judge). Carmel Marzouk with Otto, a boxer who received 1st in the working dogs class. Photos by Tom Broderick

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

September 4, 2008

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Kids View

Book Review: Marley & Me

Marley & Me the movie (coming soon to a cinema near you!) is from the book I am reviewing this month. It is the movie that Hollywood stars Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson were filming when they were in different places around Connemara last month. I would place this book for 12’s and over. The author writes in a cushioned way so it would still be suitable for naive or younger readers. It traces the story of John and Jenny’s life and how it is affected by a hyperactive dog called Marley. It goes through certain memorable moments in Marley’s life from when he was adopted to his old age. Marley is a highly mischievous pup who causes destruction wherever he goes, ripping pillows, crashing through screen doors, eating fine jewelery, shredding doors and much more. That is not to say that Marley was a bad dog. His loyalty never wavered and he was extremely kind hearted, in fact the author wrote, “A person can learn from a dog, even a loopy dog like ours,” and “mostly he taught me about friendship and selflessness and above all else, unwavering loyalty”. Telling the ‘tail’ of this loyalty comes easy to John Grogan. Any animal lover will enjoy this book but keep the Kleenex handy. The book is in Clifden Library and the movie will be out soon. Muireann McGlynn

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Jokes What’s the difference between chopped beef and pea soup? Everyone can chop beef, but not everyone can pea soup! What did the grape say to the elephant? Nothing, grapes can’t talk. What does the lion say to his friends before they go out hunting for food ?’ Let us prey! What happened to the girl who wanted a puppy for Christmas? She had to have turkey like everyone else. How do you keep a moron in suspense? I’ll tell you tomorrow. What’s brown and sounds like a bell? Dung! How do you turn soup into gold? Put 14 carrots in it! Our teacher talks to herself; does yours? Yes, but she doesn’t realise it; she thinks we’re actually listening! Teacher: You missed school yesterday, didn’t you? Pupil: Not very much ! What did the hat say to the scarf? “You hang around - I’ll go on ahead”. Compiled by Adele Biddulph Sources:http://www.thejokeyard.com, http://www.azkidsnet.com, http://www.aaaugh.com, http://www.geocities.com/ http://www.schooljokes.com, http://ask.metafilter.com

We ird & Cool Random F acts

•In Cleveland, Ohio, it’s illegal to catch mice without a hunting license. •Elephants can’t jump. Every other mammal can. •The name Jeep came from the abbreviation used in the army for the “General Purpose” vehicle, G.P. •The world’s termites outweigh the world’s humans 10 to 1. •In Singapore, it is illegal to sell or own chewing gum. •The oldest animal on Earth was born in 1830. Her name is Harriet, she’s a Galapagos land tortoise.

•More food is thrown out each day in the United States than is needed to feed its hungry-by McDonalds. •The Pacific island of Tonga once issued a stamp that was banana shaped. •A pig in Japan says “moo-moo”. •If you yelled for 8 years, 7 months and 6 days, you would have produced enough sound energy to heat one cup of coffee. •Most lipstick is partially made of fish scales. •Being unmarried can shorten a man’s life by ten years. •A pineapple is a berry. •Right handed people live, on average, nine years longer than left handed people do. •Laughter is a proven way to lose weight.

September 4, 2008

•Intelligent people have more zinc and copper in their hair. Copper is a brownred colour, correct? This is scientific evidence to back up blonde jokes! •The most common name in the world is Mohammed. •Walt Disney was afraid of mice. •25% of a humans bones are in its feet. •Donald Duck’s middle name is Fauntleroy. Compiled by Adele Biddulph Sources: http://www.randomfacts.org/random-facts.html, http://www.amusingfacts.com, http://lessandjess.tripod.com, http://www.randomfunfacts.com/

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

Connemara Properties

Market St., Clifden

This large three bedroomed town house just beautifully renovated, boasts great privacy and views of Clifden bay and harbour. The property comes with a large courtyard and private parking area. This property is ﬁnished to a very high standard and is an ideal residence for someone who wants to enjoy Clifden town and all its amenities. An opportunity not to be missed! Price: Oﬀers on €390,000. Matt O’Sullivan Auctioneers, The Square, Clifden. 095-21066 email: property@mattosullivan.com www.mattosullivan.com.

Errislannan, Clifden Unique house designed by the Architect Rory Brooks, set

on the grounds of an old Mission School site. It’s commonly known as ‘The Round House’ and takes advantage of natural light throughout the day. A house that’s both family friendly and maintenance free with accommodation as follows: Large living room, open plan with kitchen & dining, sun lounge, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Large garage combined with utility. €790,000. Connemara Properties, Bridge St. Clifden. 095-21473. email: connprop@iol.ie. www.connemaraproperties.com

The Old House’, Sheeauns, Cleggan ‘The Old House’ is a period country house dating back to c. 1756 situated in a wonderful coastal area between the sea and the mountains at Cleggan. The house in recent years has been fully renovated and tastefully decorated yet retaining some of its old world characteristics with its magnificent feature stone built fireplace of local stone. On a site c.0.75 acres the house enjoys excellent views across the countryside to the hills while from the upstairs study Cleggan village and harbour can seen. There are many fine beaches in the area, probably the finest in the country namely Omey, Aughrus and Ballinakill all within a 10 minute drive. The property is very well maintained and it enjoys a landscaped garden and a large parking area, in the paddock there is a large storage shed. The accommodation comprises an entrance hall, large living room, sun lounge, guest WC, utility, spacious kitchen / dining room, 5 bedrooms (1 en-suite) & bathroom. €550,000. DNG Martin O’Connor Auctioneers & Valuers on 091 866708 or e-mail oughterard@dng.ie.

Gowla, Cashel A lovely stone fronted house with views over Bertrahboy Bay, The Twelve Pins and Cashel Hill. Located on the road to Carna, the property includes access to an inlet of Bertrahboy Bay. Bounded by local stone walls, the grounds have been well maintained. Accommodation includes 4 bedrooms,

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER

kitchen, living area, dining room ,study and bathroom . Cashel is a popular area being centrally located and equal distance from Clifden and Roundstone. There are many renowned hotels and restaurants in the locality and the

rugged natural beauty of Connemara surrounds you. Cashel and the Ballinahinch area is world famous for its fresh water angling and hill walking. €295,000. Sherry FitzGerald Kavanagh, Main Street, Clifden 095-21888. clifden@ sfkavanagh.com. www.sherryﬁtz.ie.

62 Creig na Coille, Oughterard A deceptively spacious semi detached residence ﬁnished to a high standard located at the top of a quiet cul

Connemara View Newspaper 7,000 copies distributed monthly throughout Connemara 095-22888/087-290-9351 de sac. This property is ideally located within minutes of all amenities and with a neutrally finished interior. The accommodation comprises lounge, kitchen/dining room, utility, cloakroom, 3 double bedrooms (one en suite), office/ bedroom 4 and bathroom. For sale freehold. Offers on €305,000. Spencer Auctioneers, Main St., Oughterard, 091 552999 email: info@ spencerauctioneers.com www. spencerauctioneers.com.

August Planning Applications

082414 Ni Chualain, A, Maumeen, 01/08/08. Chun teach conaithe agus coras searachais a thogail. 082424 Coyne, Darren, Tullycross, 05/08/08. To construct a dwelling house, garage, proprietary treatment plant, percolation area and ancillary site works. 082455 King, Francis & Christine, Errisbeg East, 07/08/08. To construct a dwelling house, domestic garage, septic tank and percolation area. 082466 Aspell, Kevin, Knockbrack, 08/08/08. For the construction of dwelling house, garage, septic tank, percolation area and ancillary site works. 082472 Mac Donnacha, C, Carrowroe West, 08/08/08. Chun cead imline a fhail ar theach conaithe, garaiste agus coras searachais. 082475 Deacon, Caroline Carrowroe, 11/08/08. Chun teach conaithe, garaiste agus coras searachis a thogail (gross ﬂoor space 365sqm) 082498 West, Richard Cushatrough, 14/08/08. To replace existing septic tank with a new treatment plant and a raised percolation area on enlarged site. 082508 Folan, Seamus, Carrowroe 15/08/08. Chun athru a dheanamh ar phlean ti a bhi ceadaithe faoin uimhir tagartha 03/5862 agus chun garaiste agus coras searachais a thogail. 082527 MacDonnacha, Michael, Carrowroe South, 19/08/08. Le haghaidh coras nua searachais Kingspan Envirocare. 082538 Launay, Richard, Ballyconneely, 19/08/08. To construct a new detached garage. Source: www.galway.ie.

September 4, 2008

news@connemaraview.com www.connemaraview.com Editor-in-Chief/Publisher: Ellen McDonough News Editor: Catherine Pryce Feature Writer: Connor McDonough-Flynn Distribution Mgr: John Dunne Graphic Design/Layout: Marie-Noelle Biddulph Contributors: John Amenhauser, Gareth Anthony, Simon Ashe, Jenny Beale, Ann Marie Bennett, Tom Broderick, John Claró, Terri Conroy, Richard de Stacpoole, John Durning, Dr. Sophie Faherty, Helen Ferguson, Shona Flaherty, Paul Gannon, Sandy Glynn, Claire Griﬃn, Rosemary Hanley, Eithne Hannigan, Marian Hanrahan, Michele Hehir, Sara Horan, Bernie Jeﬀ ries, Caroline Joyce, Nick Kats, Patricia Keane, Kerry E’lyn Larkin, Joachim Lydon, Leslie Lyons, Declan Mannion, Beatrice Mbogo, Muireann McGlynn, John O’Neill, Bobbi O’Regan, Breandan O’Scanaill, Donal O’Scanaill, Maurice O’Scanaill, Ruth Rogers, Philip Smyth, Declan Weir, Tricia Wilder.

plus many local schools, groups & organisations. Photography by staﬀ unless credited otherwise. Send the Connemara View to friends & family: Annual Subscriptions - Ireland €36; Overseas €45.

NEXT ISSUE:

Thursday, October 2nd Display Ad Reservation Deadline: Friday, September 19th News Deadline: Wednesday, September 24th Classified Ad Deadline: Friday, September 26th

Classiﬁeds Ad Rates: Up to 20 words-€5.00

21-40 words -€10.0041-60 words - €15.00 additional words at 25 cents/ word. If you are giving it away - no charge. Post in with cheque or drop in the Paper Shop, Main Street, Clifden.

Display Ad Rates: Business Card-€50.00; Eighth Page-€120; Quarter-€200, Half-€350, Full-€550 Colour: Add 30%. Prices exclude VAT. FREE On-line Directory Listing with All Ads

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Here at Kavanaghs SuperValu Clifden, we value our customer comments. We have listened to what you are saying and our aim is to bring you the best value for money on a wide range of products.

We have extended our “Nice Price” range to give you, the customer a great choice of everyday products at unbeatable prices!!!

Nice Price 2ltr Water ONLY 29c Nice Price Bread ONLY 60c Nice Price Mixed Veg ONLY €1.49

Joe Lynch Store Manager

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Check in store for all our Great Offers!! More lines coming soon. September 4, 2008

CONNEMARA VIEW NEWSPAPER