Issue 1149 by Rose Harris_DouglasPost

The Douglas Post

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ISSUE # 1037 1038

Letters To The Editor frontdesk@douglaspost.ie

We’d love to hear from you. If you have any news, views or issues you’d like to see covered, write to the Douglas Post, Douglas Community Centre, Church Road, Douglas, Cork or by e-mail to frontdesk@douglaspost.ie Please include your name and address and a contact number. Letters may be edited due to space considerations.

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Super Trawlers must be monitored - Department of the Marine needs to get off its backside.

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Dear Editor

Let’s get the facts right in the super-trawler debate: • Super-trawlers use the same size nets, with the same size mesh openings, as Irish trawlers; • Super-trawlers don’t fish the sea floor and are not wrecking the Irish sea bed. Let’s get some bigger facts right: • Biggest single fact of all – Ireland gave away its fishing rights in 1974. • Second-biggest fact – in this instance, the Irish Department of the Marine is not doing its most basic job right – super-trawlers fishing in Ireland’s so called Exclusive Zone are not being monitored. They fish 24/7, could be exceeding their quota by multiples – this is surely a problem. The department of the Marine must do one or (preferably) all of three things: 1. Put observers on board the super-trawlers. Currently it is up to the ‘flag’ nation (the nation where the super-trawler is registered) to supply observers; this needs to change, install observers from Ireland; 2. Require the super-trawlers to dock at an Irish port for inspection before they leave for their landing port; 3. Send inspectors to the super-trawler’s landing port to inspect the catch as it’s landed. We know from experience the trawler operators break the rules, and the Irish courts have already handed out large fines in two cases. We know also they can evade the Navy and that in any case boarding in the high seas is a dangerous task. Monitoring, then, is where it’s at, but monitoring is NOT where our Department of the Marine is at. Bottom Line – Minister Coveney and his staff in the Department of the Marine need to get on top of this. Immediately, as in right now, he must introduce proper monitoring; in the meantime he can – he MUST – take the case and make the case, very strongly, for national observers to the EU fisheries meeting in December.

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Disclaimer: Any views or opinions expressed in these letters are solely those of the individual author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of The Douglas Post.

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The Douglas Post Magazine | Douglas Community Centre, Cork | Ireland Tel: 089 4408242 | Email: frontdesk@douglaspost.ie | www.douglaspost.ie The publishers have made every effort to ensure all information is correct at time of print, however no responsibility is accepted for errors or omissions. The views expressed in the articles herein are not necessarily those of the editor or the publisher of The Douglas Post Magazine. Issue 1149 The Douglas Post by Douglas Community News Ltd The Douglas Post is published every fortnight 2

The Douglas Post

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ISSUE # 1037 1038

Is there a community event or fundraiser in your area? Email to – frontdesk@douglaspost.ie. Douglas Writers Group The next meeting of the Douglas Writers Group will be held in Frankfield House on Friday 11th December at 5.30 pm. The Douglas Writers Group meets on the 2nd Friday of every month at 5.30pm. Young at Heart Young At Heart Douglas Seniors Group will be hosting A Remembrance Tree in Douglas if you would like to volunteer an have a hour or two to help operate the tree contact Phil on 087-2987161 Our Annual Coffee Morning and Cake Sale will in the Parish Hall on the 4th December from 10am until 1pm we look forward to seeing you there.

Santa arrived at the Community Park!

It was a fantastic day in the park, what with storm force winds gusting around and a slight bit of rain, creating the ideal wintry atmosphere, Santa’s arrival in a gorgeous red firetruck lifted the hearts of all the children who had waited so patiently for his arrival. Chief Fire Officer of Cork Fire Brigade, Eddie Buckley, drove him all the way from Cork city, along with his little grandson, Sam, and he arrived very punctually as promised at 2.30. Santa jumped down from the fire engine and in no time at all was chatting to the children and listening to their Christmas wish lists. Cameras, i-pads and i-phones to the ready, the magic of the moment was captured by lots of visitors to the park who came to witness Santa’s arrival to kick off the festive season for all the good children of Douglas. There were several brave stall holders at work, selling books, hot chocolate, and very colourful wooden garden ornaments. Alvin and the Chipmunks arrived and mingled with their usual friendly banter, while inside the centre three lovely ladies in festive attire provided tea and a great array of home-baked cakes for anyone needing a quick boost of cheer! Sharon Piper set up her Candy Shop but unfortunately couldn’t put up the carousel for safety reasons because of the very high winds on the day. With Storm Clodagh puffing her best, the kite-flying activity also had to be canned.

Penny Dinners One of the stalls at the park was Penny Dinners, one of Cork’s oldest caring organisations located at Little Hanover St. They are now providing over 1,000 meals per week compared to 150 a week two years ago. Everyone who calls to them is provided with a hot nourishing meal and they are open 7 days a week. Volunteers are very welcome and donations also can be made through their website which is www.corkpennydinners.ie. Their phone number is 021-4275604. Christmas Lights turned on! At 5 p.m. when darkness had descended, the much-awaited event of turning on the Christmas lights took place. The gloomy darkness turned into magic festive sparkle when several of the trees were lit up. A great cheer erupted from the enthusiastic watchers who had so patiently awaited that very special moment to finally arrive. We have to thank the very hard work put in by the Events Committee and their volunteer helpers and staff at the centre to make this happen. A big fundraising raffle was held, with tickets being sold at central locations in Douglas over the last several weeks to cover the cost of buying extra lights this year to make the park more spectacular than ever. Our thanks also to the people who came along to support this very special day in the park and the local business people who made generous donations to the raffle. Tidy Towns Church-Gate Collection This was held on Sunday last and was very generously supported. Many people expressed their appreciation and gave words of encouragement for the work being done throughout Douglas village and its environs. We thank all who contributed so generously and assure them that the proceeds, which were almost €1,400 will be put to good use in our campaign to make Douglas a most attractive place in which to live. We will now be able to buy new, more durable planters to replace the rotted wooden tubs where needed and undertake many other improvements. The Douglas Post

Christmas Demo at Cork Flower Club Cork Flower Club will be holding their Christmas Club Night on Tuesday, 8th December, at Canon Packham Hall, Douglas at 8 p.m. A visiting florist will give a Christmas flower demonstration and there will be a hot mulled apple drink and mince-pies afterwards. All are welcome. The cost to non-members is €5.

Above: Santa & Mrs. Claus with three very good boys

Above: Fire Chief Eddie and grandson

Balloon making Issue 1149

The Douglas Post

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ISSUE # 1037 1038 Magical Sunday sees Douglas Community Christmas Lights Sparkle Frank Hanover

brave and n u m e r o u s group of Douglas folk weathered the inclement conditions in Douglas Community Park between the hours of 1pm and 5pm last Sunday to see Santa Clause and Mrs Clause flick the switch to transform the Park into a stunning Yuletide version of itself. The event saw the return of the volunteers of Fort Camden Meagher at Crosshaven, Teresa and Cait on the toy stall, lovely volunteers from MacDonalds with twisty balloons and face paints, Angela and Mary whose tea, coffee, marshmallows in chocolate and cakes were much desired by everybody as were the waffles of Roman, Dorota and their lovely girls. Jason brought his garden ornament stall and drew the admiration of the green-fingered in the park. Sharon Piper and family including Jensen did a roaring trade in Slushies, Popcorn and Candy Floss. Jerry Buttimer TD told us of his admiration for the Events Team at Douglas Community Association and the efforts made to increase the feeling of community that was obvious on the day. County Councillor Seamus McGrath also visited and remarked on how impressive it was that the Community Association put such an effort to give families such a celebratory occasion. Michael McGrath TD also visited to see the lights and also praised the efforts of the Events Team and the Association. People were hugely entertained by three junior class dancers from Nicky’s Dance Studio whose creativity and impeccable dress sense matched the REM ‘Man on the Moon’ soundtrack chosen. Inevitably, Santa’s arrival on a fine older fire tender from Anglesea Street was the start of the magic. Damien played every known Christmas song in the western hemisphere and Santa as well as Mrs. Clause drew several crowds of happy and laughing children and their parents throughout the afternoon most of them anxious to have a photograph with the jovial couple. Gradually as dusk descended the atmosphere in the park grew more excited and more expectant until finally at 4.55 with the sky sufficiently dark DJ Damien did a 10-1 countdown and...hey presto, the Park burst into light with the specially imported and magical snow swirling among the mutifaceted shafts of bright white light from the trees. The effect was mesmeric and prolonged and people left the Park with a feeling of having participated in their town as a community. The Raffle was also well subscribed to and the benefit of it to the Community Centre is gradually becoming more and more apparent. You should take a walk in the Park for a feeling of festive magic.

Ballinlough Community news

Ballinlough Writers Group

The next meeting of the Ballinlough Writers Group will be held in The Ballinlough Community Centre on Fri 18th December at 5.30 PM. Ballinlough Writers Group meet on the third Friday of every month and its open to all people, including beginners, interested in writing. So even if you’re only half interested please come along and check us out. We look forward to meeting you ! (Inquiries 086 8839392)

Ballinlough Community Indoor Short Mat Bowling Club

Every Monday and Tuesday night at 8.00pm in the Community Centre New members welcome

45 Drive

Every Thursday night at 9.00pm

Annual Christmas Concert

Ballinlough Youth Club Events will hold their annual Christmas Concert on Sunday December 13th at 7.30pm in the Ballinlough Community Centre. This years concert will be headlined by award winning classical singer Amanda Neri and promises to be the best yet. New to our concert this year will be the Aluminata St Aloysius Alumni Choir, Shannon Buckley a new upcoming singing sensation, Pat Speight storyteller and the Crossshaven Ukuladies singing group. We will also have returning favourites including Kieran Mc Carthy, accompanist David O’Sullivan and the youth club children. As always the intermission will have a fabulous raffle and free tea, coffee and mince pies to get you in the festive mood. Tickets are €5 and available from Ballinlough Credit Union and O’ Driscolls Superstore. Find us on Facebook @BallinloughYouthClubEvents for further info.

Ballinlough Cub Scouts play Bo01ean Logic Games at CIT-BCO CEIA

2015 is the bicentenary of the birth of George Boole, the first professor of Mathematics at UCC, and Cork’s Technology Network, CEIA.ie, have devised a Bo01ean Logic Role-Playing game to introduce Boolean logic to young people. The impact George Boole has had – and is still having – on the modern world we live in, is nearly impossible to overestimate. If you look around you nowadays, you will see everybody from primary school children to senior citizens using smart phones. All of these are based on Boolean logic which was invented by George Boole during his time at UCC. At CIT-Blackrock Castle Observatory today, Ballinlough 38th/40th Cub Scouts took on the role of being a sensor, a logic gate or a data decoder to decode graphical information (weather symbols) and eventually find a hidden word. The Bo01ean Logic Game demonstrates how logic can be used to encode and transfer information, and make decisions. Boolean logic is based upon possibly one of the simplest concepts we will come across – it has only 2 possible states: for example 1 / 0, True / False, High / Low, and ON / OFF to name just a few. It is amazing that such a simple concept is the basis for every single computer, laptop, tablet, smartphone and even robot on the planet! The Bo01ean Logic Role-Playing Game is available to download at www.ceia.ie For more information please contact: Dr. Eamon Connolly Electrical and Electronic Engineering PO/ Schools Liaison Officer Cork Electronics Industry Association Mobile: 086 2228339 Email: connollye@ceia.ie

The Douglas Post

Issue 1149

Back2Back ART EXHIBITION IN ON THE PIG’S BACK CAFE, DOUGLAS Back2Back artists Ber Murphy and Anne Browne’s second joint exhibition was recently launched in On The Pig’s Back Cafe, Douglas. There was a great buzz on the night, with delicious food and refreshments supplied by Isabelle Sheridan and the On The Pig’s Back team and music courtesy of members of Cork band The Shed. The exhibition is running until the end of December, so loads of time to call in to check out the paintings, drawings and prints which are proving to be very popular with customers.

A Christmas Celebration Featuring

Dundanion Singers and

Junior Cork Youth Orchestra (conductor Terry McCarthy)

MC: Seán Ó Callanáin 3pm December 6th 2015 St. Michael's Church, Blackrock Free Entry Donations in aid of Tír na nÓg, Blackrock

Family Ties Elva’s Special Job By Brenda Keating

t was the day before Christmas Eve and all of the elves were very excited. Christmas Eve is a very important day for Elves. And do you know why this day is so special to the Elves? Because on Christmas Eve, the elves put all the toys on to Santa’s sleigh. All the elves were bustling around, making sure that the toys would be would be ready for Christmas Eve so Santa could deliver them to boys and girls all over the world. Well not quite all the elves. Elva, the littlest Elf, did not have a special job in Santa’s workshop. Elva thought that she might help the Builder Elves. The Builder Elves were very busy hammering and all of the toys together. ‘Hello, Elva.’ said the Builder Elves. ‘Can I help please?’ Elva asked. ‘Of course, Elva! You can hand us the nails!’ The Builder Elves replied. But Elva was so busy telling stories that she kept dropping the nails! ‘Maybe you can help the Wrapping Elves?’ The Builder Elves suggested. So Elva went to see the Wrapping Elves. The Wrapping Elves were very busy tying brightly coloured ribbons on to all of the presents. ‘Hello, Elva.’ said the Wrapping Elves. ‘Can I help please?’ Elva asked. ‘Of course, Elva! You can hand us the ribbon!’ The Wrapping Elves replied. But Elva was so busy singing songs that she kept getting tangled up in the ribbon! ‘Maybe you can help the Paintpot Elves?’ The Wrapping Elves suggested. The Paintpot Elves were very busy pouring red paint, blue paint, yellow paint, green paint into little pots. ‘Can I help please?’ Elva asked. ‘Of course, Elva! You can hand us the paints!’ The Wrapping Elves replied. But Elva was laughing so hard at the jokes that she kept spilling the paint! ‘Maybe you can help Mrs. Clause?’ The Paintpot Elves suggested. ‘Hello, Elva.’ said Mrs. Claus. But before Elva could say hello big tears started to roll down her face. ‘What’s the matter, Elva?’ asked Mrs. Claus and she sat down and put her arm around Elva. ‘I have no special job to help Santa Claus. I tried to help the Builder Elves but I kept telling stories and I dropped the nails. Then I tried to help the Wrapping Elves but I kept singing songs and I got all tangled in the ribbon. Then I tried to help the Paintpot Elves but I kept telling jokes and I spilled all of the paint. I am a very bad Elf.’ Elva said. ‘You are not very bad! You are a very good Elf, Elva and I can think of a very special job just for you.’ Said Mrs. Claus. ‘You can?’ asked Elva with a watery smile. ‘Of course! Santa Claus has a very long night every Christmas Eve. Last year, he got so tired that he nearly fell asleep while he was flying the sleigh! If Santa Claus had a little Elf for company who could tell him jokes and stories and sing him songs while he is delivering toys all over the world, I am sure he would be very happy!’ Mrs. Claus said. ‘Wow!’ said Elva. ‘That is a very, very special job!’ And so that Christmas Eve, Elva climbed aboard the sleigh with Santa and told him lots of jokes and stories and sang him lots of songs. Santa was very happy to have Little Elva for company and Elva, the littlest Elf in the Santa’s workshop had a very, very special job.

The Douglas Post

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Ciarán Lynch TD Constituency Office 29 St. Patrick’s Mills Douglas Tel: 021 4366200 Fax: 021 4366202 ciaran.lynch@oir.ie

MADRID - LATEST DESTINATION FROM CORK AIRPORT I welcome the news that there will be flights to Madrid from Cork Airport between June and September, adding to what is fast becoming a busy Summer Schedule in 2016. This new Spanish service will be operated by Iberia’s Group low-cost carrier Iberia Express every Saturday and Wednesday from Cork Airport, starting on June 18. It will operate until September, so sun-seekers from Cork and the Munster region will have even more choice next summer. Flights between Cork and Madrid will be operated by an A320 aircraft with 180 seats in Business and Economy cabins. Visitors to the Spanish capital will be able to fly via Madrid to many of the Iberia Group’s destinations in Spain, such as Alicante, Malaga and Tenerife, Lisbon and Porto in Portugal, Marrakech in Morocco and Buenos Aires, Mexico City, Montevideo, Sao Paulo or Santiago de Chile in Latin America. The announcement of the Madrid flights adds to other great news for passengers from Munster last week that Menorca has been added to Cork Airport’s bumper Summer 2016 Schedule. The new Cork – Madrid route is also good news for inbound traffic, given the volume of Spanish students who come to Cork and surrounding counties each year to learn English. Close to 100,000 overseas students come to Ireland every year to learn English so the Cork to Madrid flight will be very popular and convenient for those planning to study English in the South West. This is more good news for Irish tourism in 2016 and will expand travel options for Spanish holidaymakers wishing to visit Cork and the South of Ireland. As an island destination, the importance of convenient, direct, non-stop flights cannot be overstated – they are absolutely critical to achieving growth in visitor numbers. As our economy recovers, it is good to see that Cork Airport is offering more flights both to Irish holidaymakers and visitors from overseas.

THOUGHT OF THE WEEK “It requires strength to stand up for yourself. It requires even greater strength to stand up for others”

George Clooney with his family, Age 7, 1968.

The Douglas Post

Issue 1149

The Magic Sweet Store

he Magic Sweet Store recently opened its doors in Cork City’s Maylor St directly opposite Smiths Toys. It is run by a very enthusiastic young couple who are dedicated to providing a suburb level of customer service, giving time to help with customising gifts for any occasion or to advise on their range of their Retro, American, Novalty and old time sweets. They even have the eagerly awaited Bean Boozled games on the way and will be instore in the next few days. The Store also specialising in corporate treats and candy carts for weddings etc. One of the things that is important to the Magic Sweet Store is that everyone should be able to enjoy the treats so they also have an impressive range of sugar free and dairy free chocolate and also treats suitable for vegetarians and vegans and they believe strongly that every child should be made a fuss of when they walk into the shop so you can be sure of a very warm welcome indeed. The store as its name suggest specialises in Magic props for all those little up and coming magicians out there. Their gift vouchers “The Golden Ticket” has been a huge success this year and you can choose values of €10 or €20 so if anybody is stuck for a Christmas present this would be a ideal gift for young or old. Call in to say hello to Ryan & Aishling and they will be delighted to show you around. You can also find the Magic Sweet Store on Facebook. The Magic Sweet Store – 6 Maylor St, Cork City. Tel 085 8426421

Is snoring becoming an issue?

REVIVE SLEEP CLINIC OPENS IN CORK

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Always consult your GP as OSA can cause significant long term health problems

5 Lavitts Quay, Cork City 021 4248820 Call in confidence 9

orks first sleep disorder awareness & screening Clinic is holding free consultations in the hope of educating and screening the general public who may have a sleep disorder such as OSA. Obstuctive Sleep Apnea can be a serious condition if left untreated and unfortunately a growing proportion of the population still go undiagnosed. Many patients don’t realise why they wake up feeling groggy and unrested. They can’t put their finger on why they have excessive daytime sleepiness. OSA could well be the cause. If you or your partner has witnessed load snoring (pauses, gasps, snorts) daytime sleepiness and severe reduction in short term memory then you may have OSA. Revive Sleep Clinic offer a state of the art overnight screening in the comfort of your own home. They have an in house respiratory physiologist who analyses the results. Patients who have a positive reading will be offered a referral to the appropriate healthcare practitioner and will be advised on the different treatments available. Revive Sleep Clinic will be kick starting their educational program with a sleep awareness week in early 2016. If you have concerns about snoring and restless sleep contact Revive Sleep Clinic at 021 4248820 5 Lavitts Quay, Cork City (Egans Opticians Building)

The Douglas Post

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Health

Ask your Phamacist By Garvan J. Lynch

Depression Depression is one of the most common health conditions in the world. Depression isn’t a weakness, nor is it something that you can simply “snap out of.” Depression, formally called major depression, is a medical illness that involves the mind and body. It affects how you think and behave and can cause a variety of emotional and physical problems. You may not be able to go about your usual daily activities, and depression may make you feel as if life just isn’t worth living anymore. Most health professionals today consider depression a chronic illness that requires long-term treatment, much like diabetes or high blood pressure. Symptoms Symptoms of depression include: Loss of interest in normal daily activities, Feeling sad or down, Feeling hopeless, Crying spells for no apparent reason, Problems sleeping, Trouble focusing or concentrating, Difficulty making decisions, Unintentional weight gain or loss, Irritability, Restlessness, Being easily annoyed, Feeling fatigued or weak, Feeling worthless, Loss of interest in sex, Thoughts of suicide or suicidal behavior, Unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches. Depression symptoms can vary greatly because different people experience depression in different ways. A 25-year-old man with depression may not have the same symptoms as a 70-year-old man, for instance. For some people, depression symptoms are so severe that it’s obvious something isn’t right. Others may feel generally miserable or unhappy without really knowing why. It’s not known specifically what causes depression. As with many mental illnesses, it’s thought that a variety of biochemical, genetic and environmental factors may cause depression.

Lifestyle and home remedies Depression generally isn’t an illness that you can treat on your own. But you can do some things for yourself that will build on your treatment plan. In addition to professional treatment, follow these self-care steps for depression: Take your medications as directed. Even if you’re feeling well, resist any temptation to skip your medications. If you stop, depression symptoms may come back, and you could also experience withdrawal-like symptoms. Learn about depression. Education about your condition can empower you and motivate you to stick to your treatment plan. Pay attention to warning signs. Work with your doctor to learn what might trigger your depression symptoms. Make a plan so that you know what to do if symptoms return. Contact your doctor if you notice any changes in symptoms or how you feel. Consider involving family members or friends in watching for warning signs. Get active. Physical activity and exercise have been shown to reduce depression symptoms. Consider walking, jogging, swimming, gardening or taking up another form of exercise you enjoy. Avoid drugs and alcohol. Alcohol and illicit drugs can worsen depression symptoms. If you are showing some of the above symptoms, contact your G.P. for immediate evaluation. If you would like more information on depression, or lifestyle choices to combat depression, contact Garvan at Lynch’s Pharmacy on 4366923.

For more information contact Garvan Lynch at Lynchs Pharmacy on 4366923.

WARNING

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HollyJohnsonYogaCork www.douglasyogacentre.com

The Douglas Post

Issue 1149

Remember loved ones this Christmas at Douglas Court Shopping Centre’s Remembrance Tree

hristmas is special at Douglas Court Shopping Centre, and in particular the Remembrance Tree which offers people the opportunity to remember their loved ones in a simple yet poignant way in the midst of the Christmas shopping rush. This year the Remembrance Tree will be decorated by Young at Heart Douglas Seniors’ group on Thursday, 10th December. The public are invited to write a card in memory of a loved one, place it on the tree, and enter their loved one’s name in a book which will be placed on the altar in St. Patricks Church, Rochestown, to be remembered at a special mass in January. All proceeds raised from donations at the Remembrance Tree will go towards the Cork Association for Autism, which provides a range of services to adults with autism, some of whom are members of Young at Heart Douglas Seniors. Young at Heart gives older people a sense of belonging in their own community by providing services and skills to assist them to lead a more fulfilling and healthy life, and maintaining high activity levels that promote engagement and helps reduce loneliness. Throughout the Christmas period, families are also invited to visit Santa’s Grotto free of charge at the Centre to say hello to the Big Man himself as he prepares for his busiest time of year. Santa says “Don’t forget to bring your letters along and post them in my special Santa Mail post box at Douglas Court – I’ll guarantee that all the boys’ and girls’ letters will be delivered to the appropriate elves back at my workshop in time for my Christmas Eve journey.” And for those hoping to pick up some great gifts for all the family this Christmas, well they are sure to find what they’re looking for at Douglas Court’s 50 stores including Dunnes Stores, Next, Kilkenny, Verso, Carraig Donn, Art & Hobby, Boots, Sam McCauleys, Cummins Sports, and New Look, all in one convenient location. For the latest Christmas news and updates find Douglas Court Shopping Centre on Facebook or visit www.douglascourt.ie.

The Douglas Post

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Christmas In Douglas ISSUE # 1037 1038

The Douglas Post

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The Douglas Post

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ARTS

ISSUE # 1037 1038

Writers Group Meetings

Ronnie McGinn’s

Poetry Corner Of a poet’s technical resources, one of the most important is rhythm. It is connected with the most primitive, the most deeply ingrained impulses in our nature. You have only to consider the singing games of children or the tribal dances of primitive peoples or the rhythms of music to realise this. Rhythm is the very pulse of poetry. In this week’s poem Marion Rose Horgan of Cobh, treats us to a lovely example of rhythm in poetry. Marion is no stranger to this column and we have often featured poems from her highly entertaining book “My Road”

MELODY OF LIFE I’m feeling in a minor mood, But I think that’s OK, ‘Cos there’s nothing major happening In my world today. Life can’t just be a symphony, Of movements loud and strong, Sometimes it’s a subtle tune That keeps me holding on.

Bishopstown Writers- Bishopstown Library Thurs 10th December at 6.15 PM Douglas Writers Group, - Frankfield House - Friday the 11th December at 5.30 pm Mallow Poetry Group – Mallow Library - Tuesday 15th December at 12.30 p.m Frankfield House – Around the Fireside – Tues 15th December from 8.30 pm Ballinlough Writers - Ballinlough Community Centre Fri 18th December at 5.30 PM Midleton Writers – Cork Marts House – Market Green Thurs 7th January at 8.00pm Carrigaline & District Writers’ Group meet at the Stables Bar in Carrigaline, on the first Saturday of every month at 11:30am. Writers in all genres are welcome to come along to our meetings, where like-minded people share their ideas & experiences in a relaxed environment. Further information is available on 021 432 0042. Ó Bhéal – Open mic every Mon at The Hayloft (upstairs at The Long Valley), Winthrop Street Writers Workshop - every Tuesday 3pm – 5pm Bishopstown Library. It’s not for beginners, but for people who are already committed to writing and have quite an amount of work already written. Writers Corner –Cork City Community Radio 100.5 FM – every Sunday at 3.30PM

There won’t be perfect harmony, In the melody of life, There’ll be discord in the tune, And jarring notes of strife. And sometimes, in the solitude, I hear a plaintive air, Reflective tones that haunt me, With a rhythm rich and rare. Yes, life’s a complex melody, And, be it short or long, Its notes of rich diversity Create a wondrous song. A dance, a fugue, a lullaby, I know they all belong, Each one has its season, And suddenly….. they’re gone. Marion Rose Horgan Send your poem to ‘The Poetry Corner’ /Douglas Post, Douglas Community Centre, Church Road, Douglas, or you can email it direct to frontdesk@douglaspost.ie If possible keep your poem to 20 lines. You may choose any subject you like, in any form you like as long as it’s original. We look forward to hearing from you. RonnieMcGinn

The Douglas Post

Issue 1149

A Christmas Carol’ at the Cork Arts Theatre

he greatest Christmas classic of all time, ‘A Christmas Carol’, comes to life this December in a sparkling production at the Cork Arts Theatre. Dickens’ tale of the power of the Christmas spirit to soften even the hardest of hearts has been adapted and directed by renowned Cork director, Marion Wyatt and will run from Tuesday 15th to Saturday 19th December. With a cast of over 20 actors including children and adults, Marion has woven a lovely version of this Yuletide story that includes all of the unforgettable characters – the Cratchits, the Fezziwigs, the Spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Yet-toCome – and, of course, the mean-spirited Scrooge himself. Taking on the role of the miser who has a major change of heart is Eoin Hally, who has trod the boards of theatres in Cork for many years. Eoin described the role as, “one of those roles that every actor yearns to play at least once in his career” and stated, “This is a very special adaptation of ‘A Christmas Carol’ that will appeal to audiences of all ages”.

Marion said of the production, “We set out from the very start to re-create the Dickensian atmosphere as closely as possible for this production. It will hopefully transport audiences back to a simpler time to enjoy a truly traditional Christmas. The show obviously tells the tale of Scrooge’s redemption but also includes some beautiful choral singing of well-known Christmas carols. And we encourage everyone who attends to join in with the songs”. The production has assembled a beautiful array of period costumes to further enhance the traditional atmosphere and has even commissioned some new musical pieces to make this a very memorable Christmas treat for all the family. There are a variety of show times available to suit everyone with morning shows at 11am for schools, an early evening show on the Friday at 6pm, a matinee on the Saturday at 2.30pm and evening shows with complimentary mulled wine and mince pies at 8pm from Tuesday to Saturday. And there’s even a Christmas sing-along after the evening shows so that you can make a real night of it. The show runs for just over an hour so you still have time to fit in your Christmas shopping or get the little ones home to bed after an exciting time at the theatre! The 8pm show on Saturday 19th is a Gala Performance with all of the proceeds going to support ‘Cork Penny Dinners’ so that you can have a wonderful night out and support a great cause at the same time. Tickets for all shows are €12 for adults, €10 concessions, €5 for children (under 12) and there’s a group rate for adults of €10 per person for 10 or more people. The show is suitable for children 8 years of age and older. The morning shows are sold out already and early booking is advised for all other times. Call the Cork Arts Theatre box office on 021 4505624 to book. Full details can be found on www. corkartstheatre.com

Tuesday 15th December

The Douglas Post

Issue 1149 15

Young at Heart

ISSUE # 1037 1038

ow that we are in the winter months it is vital for older people to keep warm “Being Cold” even for a short time increases the risk of health problems, it is a fact older people die from the cold. Wearing several layers of thin clothing maybe more effective than one thick one, you can stay warm by eating well and staying active. There can be a heightened sense of loneliness and isolation around this time, the dark evenings can be an anxious time for older people living alone.’ Less than 5% of Medical Card holders are over the age of 65yrs are using their free dental check-ups, Dr Eleanor O’ Sullivan Senior Lecturer in Oral Surgery at Cork University Dental Hospital, warns that many people are missing out on a vital medical procedure. People with bad teeth go to the dentist people with no teeth think they don’t have to. Most people are not aware of the important role that dentist’s can play in terms of diagnosing illness early on. Immune system deficiencies, Leukaemia, Heart Diseasethese can all be present symptoms can be easily identified by a dentist. Ordinary check-ups include examinations of the neck as well as the mouth and teeth and these can identify other issues that need to be checked. Remembrance Tree will be in the Douglas Village Shopping Centre this weekend and Douglas Court from 10th December if anyone has a little time to volunteer to cover the tree it would be much appreciated ,contact me on 087-2987161 or drop into the office 17 Morris House to put your name down. Come along to the Coffee Morning-Cake Sale on Friday 4th December in the Parish Hall, next week is a busy week, Tuesday 8th we go to Bord Gais Theatre to see Mary Poppins with an overnight stay in the Grand Canal Hotel. Thursday 10th we off to the Naval Base for our Annual Christmas Party. Personal Pendant Alarm Forms can be got in the office in Morris House, Douglas. These alarms are vital for anyone living alone and over 65yrs the alarms are free, you pay an annual fee to have it monitored. A Pendant Alarm can save your life in the event of an accident, fall or any other emergency. Our Christmas Party in the Naval Base is on the 10th December. Our trip to Dublin, to Bord Gais theatre to see Mary Poppins the Musical, with overnight in Grand Canal Hotel is on 8th December.

Thanksgiving The Miracle prayer Sacred Heart Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask for a special one (mention favour). Take it dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own Broken Heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful Eyes it will become your favour not mine.

Amen

Say this prayer for 3 days promise publication and favour will be granted how impossible

Amen Say this prayer for 3 days promise publication and favour will be granted how impossible

Upcoming Events: Monday’s 11.00 – 12.00 Exercise class in the Gym 2.00 – 4.00 – Painting and Drawing in the GAA Hall 2.30 – 4.30 – Rings GAA Hall Tuesday’s 2.00 – 400 Knitting and crochet Parish Hall Wednesday’s 11.00- 12.30 Kurling Douglas Gaa Hall 2.00 – 4.00 Bingo, Parish Hall , Thursday 11.00 – 12 Tai-Chi in Library Thursday 3.00 – 5.00 In-Door Bowls, Boys National School Cherish your Yesterdays Dream your Tomorrows Phil The Three Amigos enjoying the Douglas Village Shopping Centre

The Douglas Post

Issue 1149

Use of housing funding is about people & families waiting for homes

ork South Central Fine Gael TD Jerry Buttimer has said that questions about the use of housing funding by Cork City Council must be about the people of waiting for homes. “The figures provided to me by the Department of the Environment show clearly that €6 million in housing funding available to Cork City Council was not drawndown. In the same years and under the same categories of funding Cork County Council was able to draw down more than its initial allocation. So far the replies from the Council have not explained the reasons why the funding was not used. Both Councils operate under the same systems, they both access the money under the same conditions from the Department, so why was one able to use its allocation and the other not? “Attempts by Fianna Fail Councillors to make this a party political spat are uncalled for. This is about securing the maximum available funding to meet the housing needs of people in Cork. This is too serious an issue not to speak about; the people waiting for a house, the people waiting for an adaptation to their home need public representatives that ask tough questions and get answers. Since I have been elected I have been standing strong for the people of Cork and I make no apologies for that. “Before I raised this issue in the Dáil I emailed my concerns to the CEO of the Council. I look forward to meeting with the CEO and her team to see how we can ensure that Cork City maximises the money that it gets for housing.”

The Douglas Post

Issue 1149 17

ISSUE # 1037 1038

Are you entitled to €1,000 Home Carer’s Tax Credit?

any families in Cork, who are entitled to a €1,000 tax credit, are currently not claiming it. In Budget 2016, the Home Carer’s Tax Credit was increased from €810 per year to €1,000. However, it also emerged that only 81,000 taxpayers claimed the tax credit in 2015. The Home Carer Tax Credit can be claimed by a couple in a marriage or civil partnership where one spouse or civil partner is a home carer and cares for one or more dependent persons (including children). The couple must be jointly assessed to tax. The Home Carer must care for one or more dependent persons and the Home Carer’s income must not exceed a certain amount. A dependent person is a child for whom Child Benefit is payable, a person aged 65 or over, or a person with a disability that requires care. In addition to increasing the Tax Credit to €1,000, the home carer’s income threshold will also increase from €5,080 to €7,200 from 1 January 2016. Other reliefs that people are often entitled to but do not claim include the Incapacitated Child Tax Credit (€3,300); Single Person Child Carer Credit (€1,650); Health and Medical Expenses Relief; and Relief from DIRT tax for certain pensioners. For PAYE taxpayers, the Revenue can be contacted at 1890 222 425 or by emailing SWPAYE@revenue.ie Alternatively, please contact my office if you have any queries and I would be glad to help in any way I can.

Paul McCartney, age 8, with his father, 1950.

The Douglas Post

Issue 1149

ISSUE #935- 936

Friday 06.09.2013

St Anthony (Patron of lost things) By Fr Ben Hodnett

Curragh Oil

The Zip Yard hands over cheque for over €10,000 to The Irish Cancer Society

ork November 2015. The Zip Yard, Ireland’s leading clothing andMobile: alterations087 boutique delighted to have 929 is3419 raised over €10,000 for a second year in a row to support the Tel: 021 436 1080 Irish Cancer Society’s Paint it Pink campaign. The amount was raised through a range of activities in each of Jerry O’Donovan the 26 shops nationwide including a Sew Pink Day on October Curraghconway South, 30th when 50% of turnover in each shop was donated to the Irish Cancer Society. Douglas, Cork Commenting on the partnership, Ciara Murphy of The Zip Yard Church St, Douglas says, “We’re delighted to join up all with our at The Zip Yard throughout the country Smcolleagues nts u o to support worthy cause and look forward continuing to am this red veIrish i l support the e d ardCancer Society into the future” dit cHead e r Mark Mellett, t of Fundraising at The Irish Cancer Society C men y a p comments “This tedis the second year that The Zip Yard has cep c a come on board as one of our Pink Partners and we very much appreciate the effort in raising this significant amount. This money will make a real and lasting difference to the lives of people affected by breast cancer and will help fund more research into better ways to AND diagnose and treat the disease” 6 DAY SERVICE EMERGENCIES For more information check out The ZipYard on facebook & www.thezipyard.ie

KEROSENE HOME HEATING OIL ROAD DIESEL AGRI DIESEL

Just recently, I lost my pocket diary, therefore, my life was on hold until I found it again! In the midst of the panic, a friend suggested that I should pray to St Anthony (patron of lost things). She then gave me this never ageing prayer “Tony, Tony, turn around, something’s lost and must be found!”. I prayed this prayer, and with divine inspiration, I found my diary a few hours later. Now amazed by St Anthony’s intercession, I had to find out more about him. Born Ferdinand in 1195, he was given the name Anthony when he entered the Franciscan Order. He died at the young age of 36. Most statues and pictures show St Anthony holding a bible and the infant Jesus. Tradition tells us that one evening, while studying the bible, a great light shone in the room, and Jesus appeared to St Anthony in the form of an infant. The light of the Christ Child illuminated the room, but it also brought great light to St Anthony’s studies. He is the patron of all people, situations and things that may be lost. Anthony once had a very special prayer book, and when a novice was leaving the community, knowing how much it meant to Anthony, he robbed it in anger. Anthony prayed and prayed for his book to be returned, and the thief, affected by the prayers returned the book to Anthony. Hence he is the patron of lost things. If someone belonging to you, or something belonging to you is lost, why not pray to St Anthony. “Tony, Tony, turn around, something’s lost and must be found!” Keep praying this prayer and St Anthony will help find that diamond ring!

Ardtech Industries Ltd.

PVC GATES, RAILINGS & FENCES Kilnahera West, Drimoleague Co. Cork TELEPHONE 028 31410 EMAIL ardtech@eircom. net

www.ardtech.ie

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The Douglas Post

Issue 1149 19

The Return of Penny Dinners

ISSUE # 1037 1038

M28 Carr’s Hill Interchange Update I want to update you in relation to the M28 Carr’s Hill Interchange. You may have seen my letter to Michael Nolan, CEO of Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII). I subsequently sought and have had a meeting with him to convey the views of residents. It is fair to say that the TII acknowledge the huge interest and deep concern held by residents on the range of varying issues raised during the public consultation. The enormous level of interest from residents was acknowledged and it was accepted by the TII that it cannot be ignored. As a result of concerns arising via the public consultation meeting and subsequent submissions, the TII are now going to review existing plans with a view to working up alternative options. It may take some time to work up these options but once they have done so they will then be put back out for further public consultation. The vigorous participation by residents and commuters in the process so far has played a major role in convincing the TII to review their original plans. As we continue with this process, it is vital that residents maintain the same level of interest and attention to the revised plans when they are back out for public consultation. For my part I will continue to support residents in this process and I will remain in contact with you with any further updates that I receive. Should you have any further queries or wish to contact me please do not hesitate to do so on 021 4320088 or micheal@ michealmartin.ie Micheál Martin

The Douglas Post

n extraordinary outpouring of kinder feeling and absolute altruism happened in Cork city late last week. Following a superb refurbishment which is the subject of Francis and John Brennan’s Christmas Day RTE television spectacular, Cork Penny Dinners is now looking wonderfully restored and beautifully updated. The media scrum that attended to the re-opening last Friday had hundreds of people visiting and wishing the volunteers success in the future. The spectacular was enhanced by the extent to which everybody who visited to express their congratulations, showed the generosity of Cork in discernible and delicious ways. Cork Penny Dinners, which has its own page on Facebook, is a voluntary service that’s become a frontline service under the austerity policies of the FG/L government and it’s a service that’s never been so busy. Cobh County Councillor Clare Cullinane visited with the Victorian-dressed ladies of the Cobh Animation Group and commented, “The refurbishment is stunning and that’s very heartening but I understand people who might want to question why Cork Penny Dinners is as hard pressed as it obviously needs to be. Cork Penny Dinners serves 1800 hot dinners every week and could not do so without the volunteers who give so freely of their time. I spoke with several of them. Maisie comes in once a week to help and I asked her what she thought of the big reveal; “I think it’s wonderful. Look at the stacking and the new equipment, the windows, the dishwasher. This is really going to help us produce food much more effectively.” Sean O’Shea has been a volunteer chef at Cork Penny Dinners these past four years. The Tower/ Blarney man tells me, “I had a great working life and when I retired I made the decision to give something back for all the good fortune. What I’ve found is that giving something back has been a great enjoyment. It’s some transformation that’s happened and as you can see it’s going to help a lot.” Among the descending media crews, for the RTE crew were still filming Francis Brennan while the reopening happened, I met a cameraman from Donegal by the name of Donal Glackin who opined that the refurbishment had produced a, “Great facility. You can see that it’s a very necessary service but it’s one that’s nicely sensitive to its users regardless of whether you’ve been down on your luck or otherwise.” While at Penny Dinners last Friday who should I meet but my sister Carey Hanover who’s a member of the High Hopes Choir that recently recorded the ‘Fairytale of New York’ Cork Penny Dinners Christmas single with Christy Moore. I wondered how the recording went, “Oh it was amazing. The recording took four hours and very few takes. And Christy Moore was just beautiful to work with. He’s very nice and posed for photographs with us too.” The High Hopes Choir also performed a gig at Cork City Hall in aid of Cork Penny Dinners. “It was a great gig. Very much a live event and in a very good cause.” So the Cork Penny Dinners refurbishment has been a resounding success and the charity that’s become a frontline emergency service is set to enhance its service delivery. Unquestionably, the wisest people are going to make the link between the increasingly busy charity and the austerity policies emanating from the people’s representatives in Leinster House. Undoubtedly there’s a cost to pay for that. Cork Penny Dinners is located at Little Hanover Street where Washington Street becomes Western Road. It’s an extraordinary service and welcomes everybody in the best possible way. Issue 1149

Midleton Community news

Is there a community event or fundraiser in your area? Please let us know and we will be delighted to publish it for you. Email to – frontdesk@douglaspost.ie. To ensure publication your entry should reach us before 5 PM on Mondays Up there with the best of them and in many cases we were the best of them! We know what it takes to win medals at local, County and All Ireland level.” The East Ferry Christmas Panto has also become a big part of theMidleton Writers Group The next meeting of the Midleton Writers Group will be held in Mart Office. Mart Building, Market Green on Thurs 3rd December and Thurs 7th January at 8.oo PM. The Midleton Writers Group meet on the first Thursday every month and its open to all people, including beginners, interested in writing. So even if you’re only half interested please come along and check us out. We look forward to meeting you! (Inquiries Anne Healy [AnneFHealy@Eircom.net]) East Ferry Rowing Club, East Cork.

Learn basic CPR and & Save a life!

ave you ever wondered what you would do if you came upon an accident or worse again found a member of your family unconscious? Would you know what to do? Would you like to know what to do? Can you use a defibrillator? It is generally recognised that getting to a person in Cardiac arrest within 4 minutes could make a huge difference to them. Only a few classes are needed to teach you to be able to do what is necessary. A series of basic first aid CPR classes are being offered free of charge in order to teach people of Douglas how to deal with such situations. St Luke’s school in Douglas has kindly donated their Canon Packham Hall for training. John Clifford, a Cardiac trainer, has also offered his training expertise free of charge. It would be ideal for a number of people from each park to get involved, so get a number of your neighbours interested. We can train you as a team and offer advice on setting up your own group. lf you did one thing this year that could have a profound effect on someone’s life then do this. Even if you don’t want to, come along and see how it’s done, then decide later. 6.45 for beginners 8,00pm for Regulars

East Ferry Rowing Club accepting The Club of the Year Award recently at the Annual Coastal Rowing Dinner Dance.

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY ! It won’t take long and you could save someone’s life and it will cost you nothing!

Last Tuesday evening 24th November, East Ferry Rowing Club held their annual AGM. Chairperson Eileen Triggs spoke about the outstanding season the club had and how everyone should be so proud of what the club has achieved in 2015. Ms Triggs said, “I’m going to start by asking you all here tonight to remember and recognise the outstanding year that 2015 was for East Ferry Rowing Club. I’ll kick off with some of the sporting highlights - 6 Teams winning All Ireland medals and 19 of our teams qualifying for finals in Waterville, Co Kerry. 6 teams winning County Medals and also winning the Club of the Day at the Counties too which was just the icing on the cake. Cast your memory back to early on in the season when East Ferry won their very first club of the day award at the local Championships at the Rushbrooke Regatta. And as if that was not enough, East Ferry Rowing Club scooped the prestigious Club of the Year Award at this year’s annual Coastal Rowing Association dinner dance held recently at the Raddison Blue Hotel. No doubt that this has been a very exciting year for both rowers and spectators and supporters of East Ferry Rowing Club. Ms Triggs went on to say, that it is no understatement to say that the standard of rowing in Ireland is getting higher every year and I am proud that we as a club are club and once again this year it all kicks off Thursday the 3rd to 6th December at Aghada Community Hall.

Canon Packham Hall Douglas

Tuesday 8th Dec

Further details available from: John Clifford at 087 246 2629 Or Ronnie McGinn 086 883 9392

Fidel Castro, playing high school basketball at 17, 1943.

The Douglas Post

Issue 1149 21

ISSUE # 1037 1038

Cllr Joe Harris Independent

089 2210574 Email. joeharriscork@gmail.com

Xmas Wish List 1/. Return of control of water to Councils....at least there would be some public control then. 2/. Proper funding of Councils so they could do their job of looking after Housing Estates / Repairs / etc. 3/. End the double taxation by abolition of property tax. 4/. End the culture of jobs for the boys, political patronage, that is rife in our political system. 5/. Obscene pensions paid out to politicians to be outlawed. 6/. Bank executives income to be capped at 150k a year. Currently it’s 500k to 2 million. 7/. No one to be paying more than half their income on their Mortgage or Rent. 8/. Free education meaning exactly that...not the ad hoc system we have now. 9/. Medical cards for those earning less than 20k per annum. 10/. Declaration of a national emergency on Housing thus doing away with some of the crazy red tape . 11/. Zero or low hours contracts for workers to be illegal. 12/. Regulation of the legal profession.....where one law for the rich and another for everyone else is a thing of the past. 13/. Gardai to be paid a decent income in keeping with the dangers they face on a daily basis. 14/. Proper funding of the Health Service especially the Mental health services. 15/. Major Campaign against ageism . 16/ Multi-purpose agency set up to help people in financial trouble ,the working poor, the asset rich but cash poor, the people struggling to pay their mortgage or rent, the people who have financial and mental health problems. Regards Cllr Joe Harris ,Independent member Cork County Council Member of regional health forum Member joint policing committee Vice Chair of Carrigaline/Douglas/Ballincollig Municipal District Mob 0892210574 joeharriscork@gmail.com

Kieran’s New Book – Ring of Kerry, The Postcard Collection

he third of three books Kieran McCarthy has been compiling and penning this year is entitled Ring of Kerry, The Postcard Collection. Vibrancy, a wild vibrancy, is perhaps the best way to describe the Ring of Kerry. Exposed by raw elements, the landscape is windswept and awe inspiring. This book follows on from Kieran’s previous work of exploring the nature of postcards in the south west region and how they helped to place-make and construct local, regional and national identity. The book explores the fascination of landscapes around the Ring of Kerry or the Grand Atlantic Tour as it was known a century ago and comprises what could be genuinely described as stunning images. Many could be printed in large sizes and hung on walls and I have no doubt many have over the decades. They are beautiful images made to entice the viewer to remember, to visit and not forget. These postcards were the preferred souvenirs for connoisseurs of the landscape. They framed a world for people to view, consume, keep a part of, send to other people and mass produce. The mass production of such images helped advance the narrative in promoting the south west Iveragh peninsula. The communication of the message behind these postcards in the early twentieth century was important and the messages were and still are numerous and strong. They showcase extraordinary and geologically ancient but desperate spaces in an artistic narrative – our countryside, a sense of adventure, ideas of self-discovery, true, honest and valuable experiences, the 40-shades-of-green package, concepts of Irish culture and identity, and ultimately the collective memory of a country and what it stands for. The postcards contain representations of an Ireland to draw people to the country and into the country’s regions. The images are collective representations and visual metaphors of the power of landscape in the culture of the time they were produced – they all spin a political narrative of sorts on the selection of memories, stories, legends and their meanings, the role of natural and built landscape in shaping the Irish psyche – what should be remembered more so than forgotten, what images are deemed important in the construction of local and national belonging in the early twentieth century. The postcards are all romantic and poetic odes to landscape – by photographers and artists – their awe and respect can be viewed as well as their devotion to nature and the quest for a vision of the idyllic. Ring of Kerry, The Postcard Collection by Kieran McCarthy is published by Amberley Press and is available in any good book shop.

The Douglas Post

Issue 1149

CINEMA

PUZZLES Local Cinema Listings

CINEMA

Local Cinema Listings

Mental Problems to Solve

Crossword

DOUGLAS CINEMA

LINK ROAD, DOUGLAS, CORK DOLBY DIGITAL SOUND BOOK ONLINE @ WWW.CORKCINEMAS.COM

021 4895959

DIGITAL PROJECTION IN ALL SCREENS 11.30AM SHOWS: 2D TICKETS ONLY €5.30 3D TICKETS ONLY €5.50

STAR WARS VII: THE FORCE AWAKENS (TBC) TICKETS ON SALE NOW SNOOPY & CHARLIE BROWN: THE PEANUTS MOVIE 2D (GEN): SAT 5TH & SUN 6TH 11.30AM 2.00 4.15PM KRAMPUS (15A): 7.00 9.15PM VICTOR FRANKENSTEIN (12A): 1.30 4.15 9.15PM CHRISTMAS WITH THE COOPERS (12A): 1.45 4.15 9.15PM + FRI-SUN & TUES 11.30AM THE GOOD DINOSAUR 2D (PG): 1.45 4.15 6.40PM + FRI-SUN & TUES 11.30AM BRIDGE OF SPIES (12A): 8.45PM BLACK MASS (15A): FRI, MON-THURS 1.30 6.45PM SAT & SUN 6.45PM THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY PART 2 2D (12A): 2.15 5.30 8.45PM + FRI-SUN & TUES 11.30AM BROOKLYN (12A): 6.30PM SPECTRE (12A): FRI, MON-THURS 4.00PM HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 2 2D (PG): FRI-SUN & TUES 11.30AM

Brain Teazer A hiker came to a fork in the road and does not know the way to go to his destination. There were two men at the fork, one of whom always tells the truth while the other always tells lies. The hiker does not know which is which, though; he may ask one of the men only one question to find his way. Which man does he ask and What is the question?

Last Issue’s Answers Last Week’s Teazer

Dave and Anne moved into their new home and then went to the DIY Store to make an important purchase. “How much is one?” asked Dave. “€3” came the reply. “What about 20?” “That’ll cost you €6 “ What were Dave & Anne buying?

Last Week’s Answer They were buying digits for their house number. Two at €3 each, cost €6

The Douglas Post

Issue 1149 23

ISSUE # 1037 1038

Gardening The huge trumpet flowers of hippeastrum, often called amaryllis, are sure to brighten up the dark days of winter. You might get one as a Christmas gift, but it’s also worth treating yourself to one (or more!) of the massive bulbs which are available in a wide range of colours. And they couldn’t be easier to grow. Not everything in this article may apply to your garden - but there might be something, if not this week maybe next week. Flower Garden It’s time to clear away annual climbers, like sweet peas and morning glory, growing on obelisks. Pick seedheads and evergreen foliage and mix with fruit such as clementines or limes to make a fresh Christmas wreath. Move tubs of shrubs or winter bedding to a sheltered spot if conditions turn very cold. Take root cuttings of oriental poppies and other perennials. Look for earlyflowering snowdrops to pot up and bring into the house. Prepare soil well before planting new roses. Cover branches of holly berries with netting to keep birds away. Prune overgrown laurel, yew and camellias back hard to rejuvenate them. Wrap straw or bracken around the base of tender shrubs and climbers to protect them the from cold Check stakes and ties are secure on trees and climbers Kitchen Garden Make a composting trench to enrich soil where beans will grow next spring. Make compost from spent crops. Dig over vacant areas. Lift and divide congested clumps of rhubarb. Cut down asparagus fronds and the tops of Jerusalem artichokes. Buy in rotted farmyard manure or other composted green waste. Use cloches to protect winter peas, beans and salads. Lift and pot up chicory roots to force chicons. Plant new fruit trees, bushes and cane fruits. Bring potted bay trees under cover if conditions turn very cold Lawns & Hedges In a very mild winter, mow the lawn if necessary, only when dry and with the blades set high. Greenhouse Keep potted herbs on the staging to crop over winter. Move potted bulbs into the greenhouse to develop before bringing into the house . Clear out old crops and growing bags. Water sparingly and aim to keep the atmosphere as dry as possible over winter to reduce the spread of disease. Check dahlia tubers and bulbs in store for signs of rot. Pick off fading or diseased leaves from pelargoniums and other plants. Continue ventilating the greenhouse on warm days. Cut down chrysanthemums after flowering. Prune dormant vines Water Garden In hard weather keep part of the pond surface icefree for fish. In General Sow tree seeds and berries such as cotoneaster and sorbus in pots in a frame outdoors; protect against mice. Hang bird feeders in fruit trees and roses to encourage birds that eat insect pests Install or check plastic tree guards where rabbits are a problem. Check new trees and shrubs after heavy frost, and firm if they have been loosened in the ground

Know Your Rights Budgeting for Christmas

Question:

This Christmas I will struggle to find money for food and gifts. Is there any help available with budgeting and finding some extra cash for all the additional costs at this time of year?

Answer:

MABS – the Money Advice and Budgeting Service – supports families with budgeting all year round. They have useful suggestions about how to cope over the festive season on their website, mabs.ie. First of all, make a list of what you need to buy for Christmas. Divide it into gifts, food, clothes and socialising. You can then decide what things are essential and where you can cut back and save money. You can use the MABS Christmas planner to help you work this out. Having done this, you may decide that you need to borrow to cover the extra costs over Christmas. However, you should only borrow what you truly need. If possible, try to pay back this loan before the middle of next year, otherwise you will find it difficult to save for next Christmas. When you borrow you should always: • Work out what the weekly or monthly repayments are going to be and see how this will affect your budget next year – can you afford that amount, and still pay your regular bills and expenses? • When looking for a loan, try to get the best value you can. Generally, loans from a money lender will cost you much more than a loan from your credit union or bank. Using a credit card is also a very expensive way of borrowing money. You can check whether an It Makes Sense loan is available from your local credit union. This is an easy-to-access loan aimed at people on social welfare. It is a pilot scheme so it is not currently available nationwide. • Remember to read the terms and conditions of any credit application so you understand what you are getting into. Get advice before you sign. Before you borrow you can contact MABS to see what options are available to you and look again at your list – is it worth it? Are you sure this is what you and your family need?

Further information is available from the Citizens Information Centre below. Tel: 0761 07 6950 Citizens Information is also available online at www.citizensinformation.ie and from the Citizens Information Phone Service 0761 07 4000. Supported and funded by the Citizens Information Board.

The Douglas Post

Issue 1149

Alpha Dr Stefan Billing, BSc, B. Chiro, DACNB Functional Neurologist & Consultant Chiropractor Here comes... cold and flu season... and I want to make sure YOU don’t fall prey to it! So first of all, and as with most infectious diseases, one of the best ways to stay well is to build your defences naturally by eating a healthful diet … fruits, vegetables, little or no sugar, healthy protein and fat, and get yourself adjusted, your nervous system is integrally connected with your immune system and chiropractic adjustments stimulate you nervous system. You’ll want to keep that stress under wraps, too, and make sure you’re getting plenty of sleep. These are the cornerstones to a healthy immune response, which is your first defence against cold and flu. Here in countdown order, from #9 to #1, are the best natural defences and remedies... 9. Zinc Zinc has been shown to reduce the length and severity of the common cold, but you have to take it within 24 hours of your first symptoms. 8. Vitamin C Taking vitamin C regularly may help to (modestly) reduce the length and severity of cold symptoms (although it does not seem to help if you just start taking it once a cold hits). In people under physical stress, such as marathon runners or skiers, regular vitamin C actually cut the incidence of colds in half. 7. Echinacea Echinacea, and specifically Echinacea purpurea, may help to shorten the duration of the common cold and lessen the severity of symptoms in adults 6. Probiotics Beneficial bacteria known as probiotics have been found to help prevent upper respiratory tract infections, including the common cold 5. Garlic Garlic naturally improves the production of white blood cells and optimizes the efficiency of your antibodies, possibly due to the sulfur-based compounds like allicin, allium and N-acetylcysteine. Garlic has both antibacterial and antiviral properties 4. Exercise People who exercise regularly get up to 20 percent fewer colds than those who do not 3. Vitamin D Vitamin D plays a role in your body’s innate immunity, including the prevention of respiratory tract infections like colds and flu, but many are deficient. 2. Elderberry Elderberry extract has also been shown to shorten the duration of flu symptoms by more than 50 percent. 1.Proteolytic Enzymes Proteolytic enzymes not only have very potent anti-inflammatory properties, they also fight viruses and support your immune system.

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If you’re ready to start preparing for the upcoming cold & flu season and get your psycho-neuro-immunological system (nervous system) ready then call us today on

(021) 429-2445 and book an exam with Dr Stefan Billing Koru means: Life, Growth, Movement

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ISSUE # 1037 1038 TRADES & SERVICES

“Thank you Douglas Post I received several calls since advertising with you”. The Douglas Post For Great Advertising Rates Contact Marie, 0894408242 or marie@douglaspost.ie

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Ann and Aoife Quinlan at the Cork City Community Radio reception in their studio at Lancaster gate

The Douglas Post

Rare old photo: Paul Newman joins the navy, age 18, 1943. Issue 1149

SPORT

PASSAGE WEST GAA NEWS By Noel Collins

Raffeen Creek Pitch and Putt Notes by Brendan Hayes

The AGM was held on Sunday morning 29th on November and the attendance was moderate. Before the meeting commenced a presentation was made to Weeshie Murphy by out going cap tain Christie Wade on Weeshies continued success on the international scene representing the club, county and country his most recent success was runners up in the world matchplay doubles in Spain. The officers elected were Weeshie Murphy was reelected chairman Mark O Riordan moves in to be secretary Ger O Sullivan and John Tett are joint Treasurers Donal Field reelected as Juvenile officer Brendan Hayes PRO and club captain is John Hughes Dave Ahern is the new competition secretary. The first meeting of new committee is fixed for the 10th December. The hamper competition commenced immediately after the AGM in atrocious weather conditions and this reflected in the scores Winners of the Nett with 49 points (one ahead of Donal Field and myself) were Mark O Riordan and Billy Venner Winners of the Gross were Dave Ahern and Richard O Flaherty -9 Usual competition next Saturday 2,30pm and Sunday morning Turkey competition.

Results for Rebel Og Central With Cian O’Briain

Rebel Og Premier 1 U18 Hurling League: Blackrock 4-13, Sarsfield 0-9 Final; Rebel Og Premier 1 U16 Football League: Nemo Rangers 2-17, St Finbarrs 2-8 Semi Final off 15/11; Rebel Og Premier 2 U16 Football League Grp1: Mallow 2-10, Midleton 4-7 Final; Carrigaline Court Hotel C3 Fe 15 Football Championship: St Finbarrs -, Mallow - Conceded by St Finbarrs; Rebel Og Premier 1 U15 Football League: Eire Og 3-5, Nemo Rangers 4-18 Final; Rebel Og Premier 2 U15 Football League: Sam Maguires 1-9, Ballincollig 1-8 Final; Rebel Og Premier 2 U15 Hurling League: Eire Og 2-9, Fermoy 3-10 Final; Rebel Og Premier 2 U14 Football League Grp1: Carbery Rangers 3-4, Castlehaven 5-8 Final; Rebel Og Central 3 U13 Football League: Carrigaline Gorm 0-6, Nemo Rangers 3-10 Final Autumn L; Carrigline Court Hotel Premier 2 Fe 12 Autumn Football League 2A: Valley Rovers 4-3, Youghal 2-2 Final;

Passage West Gaa Juvenile Section held a very successful Annual General Meeting at the Billy Cotter Pavilion last Thursday evening. Before a very large attendance, Chairperson Damien Taaffe congratulated all the teams and mentors that took part in competitions from Under 8 through to Minor. He said it was a very successful year for the Juvenile section with the Under 13 Football team winning their league, Under 14 Football team winning East Cork Championship, County Championship and league. Under 15 Hurlers winning the County championship, which was the first County Hurling Title to the club in 45 years. The Minor hurling team performed well throughout the season and were unlucky not to bring back a title to the club, like wise the Minor Football team performed very well and were unlucky in the championship after putting in some great performances. Indeed the numbers are so strong at Minor football level, that the club will have two Minor teams taking part in competitions next season. He thanked the coaches and mentors of the Under 8/10 teams in hurling and football. The Under 8/10 group attended various blitzes throughout the year and it was a great learning curve for the young boys. The Under 11/12 teams took part East Leagues and once again improved as the season went on. There was also high praise for the coaches and mentors who looked after the very successful Pasaiste Og Under 5/6/7 age group throughout the year. The dedication put in to teach the up and coming hurlers and footballers the skills of the game was much appreciated and it is hoped that more Parents will get involved at this age group next season. He said that the Juvenile section is very strong in the club which, will only benefit the senior section of the club in the next few years. He asked that members get behind all the teams in the club and work hard to put Passage up there with the best in Cork. The Chairperson congratulated all the Passage Players who represented the Club on Seandun/Cork City regional squads throughout the year. A special mention to Ronan Harrington Under 17 Hurling, Thomas O’Neill Under 17 Hurling, Scott Coughlan Collins Under 16 Football, Callum Finnegan Under 14 football who wore the Red Jersey of Cork this season. He thanked outgoing Hon secretary Ian Lester for the dedicated work put in over the past five seasons. Election of Officers, Chairperson Damien Taaffe, Vice Chairperson Eoin Barry, Hon Secretary Hugh O’Neill, Hon Treas Colin Lester, PRO, Board delegates Tom Harrington, Ian Lester, Committee members, Kieran Harrington, Dave Hefferan,Kevin Barry, Keith Maxwell. Following coaches were appointed, Minor, Tom Harrington, Under 16 Damien Taaffe, Under 15 Kieran Harrington, Under14 Tim Killen, Colin Lester, Under 13 Jason O’Byrne, Under 12 Keith Maxwell, Under 11 Ian Lestor, Under 10 Conor Calnan. Each coach will be supported by various club members. Presentation of medals A presentation of medals will take place to the successful Under 13 Under 14 and Under 15 teams that won their various leagues and championships this season. Also Passage players that represented the club on Cork County teams will be honoured. The function takes place at our clubhouse Manning Park on Sunday 6th December at 6pm.It is hoped a large crowd will attend to thank the various teams for their hard work during the season.

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ISSUE # 1037 1038

The Douglas Post

Issue 1149