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THURSDAY 11/12/2014
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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, Morris House, Douglas West, 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.
Ned O’ Keeffe T.D. Dear Editor, I had mixed feelings when I read about the imposition of a hefty fine and a suspended sentence on former Fianna Fail TD, Ned O’ keeffe. He had admitted to filing fake invoices to claim more than €3,700 in mobile phone expenses. Mixed because nobody is perfect and I recognize that it must represent a severe personal blow to him to be subjected to this public ignominy, even if he did bring it on himself. On the other hand, as a long time campaigner against animal cruelty in Ireland, I recall that as a TD Mr. O’ Keeffe was for years the most vociferous cheerleader for the so-called sport of live hare coursing. When the late Deputy Tony Gregory moved a Private Members Bill in June 1993 to abolish the cruel practice, Mr. O’ Keeffe mounted a ferocious attack on what he described as an attempt to remove one of the most edifying and delightful pastimes from the heart of rural Ireland. Brushing aside evidence of hares being mauled to death or agonizing injury by the dogs, and the screams of the hares that were relayed from a tape recorder in the Dail by a Green Party TD in defiance of Oireachtas rules, he eulogized an activity that has since been outlawed on animal welfare grounds in many jurisdictions, including Britain and Northern Ireland. In September 2009, when the Greens in government hinted that they would like to see a ban on hare coursing, Mr. O’ Keeffe again came to the rescue of his beloved “harmless rural pastime”, warning that he and like-minded TDs would block any move to end it. The spectacle of a political giant being brought low is not something to celebrate. But nor, in my opinion, should the spectacle of a hare being terrorized or tossed about like a broken toy by a pair of hypedup greyhounds, be celebrated. Mr. O’ Keeffe’s departure from Fianna Fail is unlikely to bother anyone in the greyhound industry. His position as the political mouthpiece of the pro-blood sports lobby has been filled by South Tipperary’s Deputy Mattie McGrath, who is gleefully trotting out the same old tired excuses for allowing hare coursing to continue in 21st century Ireland. As for Ned O’ Keeffe’s resignation, I would have preferred for the sake of our persecuted hare population that he had never entered politics in the first place.
Deirdre Waldron, Fuzion PR, Liam Sheehan, magician, and Paula Cogan, Director of Sales & Marketing of The River Lee Hotel, pictured at the it@cork Christmas party in the new riverside terrace of The River Lee Hotel. Pic: Diane Cusack
NOW OPEN!
Thanking you, John Fitzgerald (Campaign for the Abolition Of Cruel Sports) 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. The Douglas Post Magazine | Unit 29C| St Patrick’s Mills| Douglas West | 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. The Douglas Post is published every fortnight by South Link Publishing Ltd
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Ronnie McGinn’s
Poetry Corner Our poem this week comes from ShJ ClarckBeing, born in the Netherlands and growing up in the former Dutch colony Suriname, South America, has left ShJ Clarck with a keen sense of what’s different. The process of having to merge two dominant cultures and other small ones, has provided her with an uncanny insight into human nature and has outlined humanity’s role in the great scheme of things. From a young age ShJ. Clarck has been fascinated by the world around her -- expressing herself through writing came quite naturally.
Strong Arms to Keep Strong Arms to Keep Lost and lonely roads to travel Alone I watch my life unravel Security facing - problems galore Hauntingly facing visions of yore My life I am living with nothing to spare My heart so large, I have plenty to share And doing the best I possibly can Most moments it be the best I plan The concrete wall I’ve just run into The fact that I have nothing to give in to Weighing down with forces of nature I look and wonder how not to give up Closed doors so solemnly seem The time, the places where I have been The recesses of my mind Many times seem unkind Thus am mired in blissful misunderstanding Seems incomprehensible from where I am standing Thigh deep in gore Spread about me - galore Lights and tunnels not happening soon While waiting I reach for the moon The depth of relief stretched far and deep Begging am I - soft arms to keep Me – from falling fathomless deep Strong hands – steer me off the deep. ShJ Clarck Send your poem to ‘The Poetry Corner’ / Douglas Post, Unit 29 C, St Patrick’s Mills, 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. Ronnie McGinn
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Eoin Kennedy (principal) & Norma Corcoran (class teacher) with 5th class girls from Eglantine. Once again, the fifth class girls of Scoil Bhríde,Eglantine,are taking part in the ‘Discover Cork School’s Project 2015’. As winners in last year’s project, the school is enthused by this interesting and educational project on the history of our city. The project fosters a great sense of place amongst the girls and inspires them to explore the rich, cultural heritage of our wonderful city. We would particularly like to thank Cllr.Kieran Mc Carthy for his continuing and helpful support with this project.
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THURSDAY 11/12/2014
HOTEL OF THE YEAR 2014 - 2015
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Douglas Community Notice Board 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 John O’Sullivan’s (Business Centre), Douglas on Friday 12th Dec at 5.30 pm. The Douglas Writers Group meets on the 2nd Friday of every month at 5.30pm.
Toastmasters Club Douglas Sláinte Toastmasters Club meets on alternate Wednesday’s @8pm in Rochestown Park Hotel. The easy way to improve your communication & leadership skills. You are welcome to join us on Wednesday 17th Dec. So please come along if only to have a look at what goes on, you will be more than welcome!
Volunteers/Newcomers welcome
very
Please come and join us! If you are new to the area or you have recently retired and you would like to get involved even in a very small way in the community, be assured you are very welcome to join in any of the voluntary activities that take place at the centre. A rota of people help to cook meals each week-day in the centre’s Meals-on-Wheels kitchen, and are always looking for people to help out. A crew of drivers deliver these meals. For further information, please contact Siobhan Murray at 087-2432521. Tidy Towns hold weekly clean-ups on Saturdays and now even have a crew on Sundays. They meet at the community park at 10.30 on Saturday morning and work until noon. Picks and highviz jackets are provided so there’s no excuse for not coming! Please visit
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their excellent newsy website at www. douglastidytowns.ie.
Events Committee
Enjoy the beautiful Christmas Lights as you puff and pant your way around! So take your pick – there’s great choice for exercise in the heart of Douglas!
We have an Events Committee who run regular events in the park such as St. Patrick’s Day and May Day festivals, a Harvest Festival, and they even brought Santa and Christmas lights to the park for the second time again this year. If you wish to join this group of people, please contact Marie Piper at 086 1732469. We are always looking for people to help out with fund-raising events to cover the costs of running our centre and to fund-raise for our new Meals-on-Wheels kitchen, such as bag-packing at supermarkets and collecting at local churches. Please make contact by e-mailing us at douglasca@eircom. net. For further information on all activities you may like to visit our website at www. douglascommunity.ie Embrace Exercise coming up to Christmas! With the Christmas season upon us, along with its stresses and strains, no harm to keep the body fit and well so we can enjoy the merriment to the full. There is now a new kick-about area for youngsters in the park which facilitates many types of ball games and there are a variety of exercise machines for all ages and stages. The Mangala area opposite the park has now been developed into a proper recreational and educational amenity for the people of Douglas with a proper marked trail through it – anyone interested in wildlife will totally appreciate it. A jogging path all around the park is available to people which is in regular use by walkers and runners alike.
Photos: Carrigaline United FFA did an information day in Douglas Village sc last weekend. Their Mascot “CARRIG” met Olaf and Elsa from Frozen as well as visiting Santa with one of their players Ronan O’Shea. They also spent some time promoting their End of year party in Carrigaline.
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THURSDAY 11/12/2014
Flying Colours for Students at Cork Airport Christmas Trade Fair as part of the Schools Enterprise Awards
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chools in the South Cork region had the opportunity this week to showcase their mini companies at the annual Christmas trade fair, which took place at Cork Airport on Tuesday December 9 as part of the Schools Enterprise Awards. During the trade fair, the groups were interviewed by a panel of judges and rated on their business acumen. Winners were awarded prizes by category in a ceremony which took place at the end of the event. The prizes were received by ‘Comhghairdeas. net’ from Midleton CBS for Best Exhibition Stand, ‘The Gadget Gang’ from Scoil Mhuire Fan Smal Blarney for Best Interview, ‘CC Games’ from St Coleman’s Community College for Best Innovation, ‘East Eats’ from Midleton CBS for Best Marketing and ‘Christmas Logs’ Glanmire Community College for Best Team Spirit. The intermediate prize was awarded to ‘Drithle Nollaig from Colaiste An Chroi Naofa, Carrignavar, Junior prize to ‘Colourful Candles’ from Colaiste Choilm, Ballincollig and The overall winner who scored highest in the five awards listed was ‘Adventoriousz’ from St. Coleman’s College, Midleton. Set up by the Local Enterprise Offices, the Schools Enterprise Awards (SEA) are open to second level students across the country and has had over 17,000 participants each year. The Christmas trade fair enables students involved in the programme to showcase their mini companies and facilitate inter-school learning and selling. Due to the huge increase of students in the South Cork region taking part in the programme this year, the event was held at Cork Airport for the very first time. There were over 300 students attending the event, with 100 mini company groups displaying their products and services.
our future economy and we are delighted to see such vibrant young entrepreneurs, who have brought the airport to life this morning showcasing their innovative ideas.” said Ciara McGee, Business Adviser, Local Enterprise Office South Cork “The South Cork Schools Enterprise Programme are delighted to be here at the airport today and are extremely grateful to Cork Airport for hosting the Christmas Trade Fair. There has been a magnificent turn out with over 380 pupils in attendance” added Katherine Corkery, Programme Coordinator, Schools Enterprise South Cork. The Christmas fair was open to the general public where they were able to see for themselves just how talented these young people were, as well as the opportunity to purchase some extra special Christmas presents.
“Cork Airport are absolutely delighted to host this year’s event. It is a unique showcase for fresh thinking and bright ideas and it’s great to see these take off at Cork Airport’ said Kevin Cullinane, Head of Communications, Cork Airport. Now in its 10th year, the SEAs is the biggest enterprise competition for students in Ireland. It helps students to grasp real life skills associated with running a real enterprise including working as part of a team, managing production and finances, organising a sales and marketing campaign and liaising directly with customers, judges and the media. “Youth Entrepreneurship is so vitally important to
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CARRIGALINE Community News
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s 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
Riverstick Hall to host Christmas Céilí On Saturday the 13th of December the Christmas Carrigaline Céilí Mór will be held in a new veune Riverstick Hall. Their regular dance hall has become unavailable for this month’s Céilí, due to unforeseen circumstances. Riverstick Hall is a fine venue to celebrate the Christmas Céilí and Birthday Party. Cork’s fabulous Abbey Céilí band have traditionally played the Christmas Céilí and draws the biggest crowd of the year from all over the country and abroad. Admission is still only ten euro including tea. Dancers will be out on the floor from 9.30pm to 1am, so why not come out Saturday night December 13th. Beidh fáilte ríomh cách. For more information contact Barry Cogan on 087 813 7990. See www.ceilimor.ie for more details.
THURSDAY 11/12/14 Ceili Fit move to St. Mary’s For the month of December, the Carrigaline Ceili Fit will be in St. Mary’s School Hall, Waterpark Est. in Carrigaline each Thursday from 8.30pm. The ceili and set dancing class is open to all levels and beginners or Au-pairs are very welcome. See www.ceilifit.ie for more details or contact Fionan Cogan on 087 818 5111 MENS SHED There are now 23 Mens Sheds registered with the National Association in the County & City. On Saturday morning work on the relocation of the woodworkshop benches and equipment to the new prefab commenced. The cookery course with Catherine Foley continues on Monday from 11.00 am to 1.00pm. The Carrigaline Men’s Shed is located on the LHS of the Roberts Cove road. Enquiries Pat Byrne 086 192 4375, Dick 0862058916 or Pat Dineen 087 7755841 or Facebook mens.shedcarrigaline
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. TIDY TOWNS The Carrigaline Tidy Towns committee is busy this weather planting bulbs and shrubs. The Clubs of the parish that have adopted the approach roads to the town centre are planting over a half-ton of daffodil bulbs again this year. All the schools and churches in the parish are also planting more daffodil bulbs. Residents associations and volunteers are encouraged to do some planting. If everyone does a little the net result would ensure that Carrigaline will be a blaze of colour next spring. Volunteers always welcome. For further information contact Maura Allen 437 2479 or Ger O’Hara 086 166 1049. WREN BOYS St Stephen’s Day 26th December seems a long way off but the organizers of the annual WrenBoys street festival in Carrigaline are planning ahead for the event. This year it is hoped to get more people dressed in costume for the festival season. St Stephen’s Day is always a great family day in Carrigaline with the colour, music and dancing in the street added to by the annual Meet of the South Union Hunt with up to a hundred horses and riders making a great spectacle as they ride through town.
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Science, Explained (a school exam answer from college students in the U.S) “Three kinds of blood vessels are arteries, vanes and caterpillars.”
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STOP ANXIETY AND PANIC ATTACKS – FAST!
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anic has been described as being “as slippery as an eel”! It is hard to pin down and sometimes can happen even when we are relaxing, on holiday or in the supermarket. Sometimes we can trace back these feelings to a particular event such as a recent vehicle accident but sometimes we don’t have any idea why we are feeling as we do. A panic attack is a sudden intense feeling of fear and symptoms can include shortness of breath or hyperventilation, racing heart, chest discomfort, trembling, choking sensations, feeling unreal or detached, sweating, nausea or upset stomach, feeling light-headed and having a sense of losing control.
Generally speaking panic attacks arise from a build-up of stress, anxiety, feeling overwhelmed and the constant firing off of the ‘fight or flight’ response. And what can happen is that the next time that you are in a situation where a panic attack previously occurred (or a situation resembling it), another one is triggered by the emotional memory. You then feel as though you are “walking on eggshells”, constantly vigilant in case you get another attack. The good news is that you don’t have to go on suffering in this way! Alison uses effective techniques to break the pattern of the unconscious processes that are sustaining the occurrence of panic attacks, and she can help you to eliminate them quickly and easily in just a few sessions. To make an appointment or talk with Alison, call
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087 9934541
THURSDAY 11/12/2014
ISSUE # 1050
Gardening Things to do This Week
(Who’s really thinking about working in the garden this week ? Well a few of us are. In spite of the weather, there is something very soothing and relaxing about being out in the garden, even if it’s only to feed the hungry birds. Because of the time of year even the smallest of chores tend to remain undone, but helping the wildlife brings its own quite reward. This article might give you a few ideas. Now not everything in this article may apply to your garden - but there might be something, if not this week maybe next week.)
Flower Garden: Peg down trailing ivy stems to root as
Douglas Court Shopping Centre, Cork
Kitchen Garden: Net brassicas securely against pigeons.
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CHRISTMAS TREES ∙ Fitted To Stand ∙ Netted ∙ Range of Sizes & Prices Planted Containers & Hanging Baskets ∙ Seasonal Colour ∙ Range of Wreaths ∙ Holly & Mistletoe Gift vouchers
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layers. Continue planting roses when the ground is suitable; soak for a few hours if roots are dry. Prepare new heather beds and plant up with acid or lime-tolerant varieties according to soil type. Assess the winter garden as a whole for impact, and make plans to add more colour and interest
Take root cuttings for seakale, inserting thick segments vertically in pots, just covered with compost or grit, and keep in a frame. Save a few mistletoes berries to rub on the underside of old apple tree branches
Lawns & Hedges: Check lawns after heavy rain (or snow) and spike to improve drainage wherever water lies in pools. Repair damaged edges of lawns whenever the weather is suitable.
Greenhouse: continue potting up hippeastrums and
restarting into growth. Transfer boxes of chrysanthemum stool from a frame to the greenhouse, to accelerate growth. Sow onion seeds in warmth for large bulbs. In heated greenhouses sow dwarf French beans, 6 per 20cm (8ins) pot, for April or May harvest.. Stand azaleas coming into bloom on saucers of pebbles.
Water Garden; In hard weather keep part o9f the pond surface ice-free for fish.
In General: Bring under cover any empty clay pots and The Cowboy Code
Love is a moment of stillness that sometimes a word can shatter to fragments, or love can be a thing that endures, a rich deep current that flows unending down the years.
containers to avoid frost damage. Clear away all garden debris where slugs and snails can lurk, including under greenhouse staging. Order seeds early, especially if unusual varieties are wanted. Harden off pot grown Christmas trees in a sheltered spot before planting out at the end of the season.
Louis L’Amour (the Walking Drum)
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The Traditional SHARE Christmas Campaign begins, as students from 20 of Cork’s schools fast and fundraises, for Cork’s elderly.
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HARE (Students Harness Aid for the Relief of the Elderly), the organisation for the care of Cork’s elderly, launches its traditional fast and fundraising campaign at the SHARE Crib, Daunt’s Square, Cork, (near Grand Parade), on Sunday next, 14th December 2014 at 6pm. The Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Mary Shields, together with Bishop John Buckley and Bishop Paul Colton, will join the young students of SHARE at the opening ceremony at the specially erected Christmas Crib at Daunt’s Square, Cork. The Army band of the First Southern Brigade will play Christmas carols to entertain the crowds that will gather to support the youngsters. 1,800 students will be participating in the fast and fundraising, with their bright yellow sealed collection boxes and yellow jackets, encouraging people to donate to SHARE and help sustain and enhance the important work of this beloved Cork charity. The SHARE boys and girls will collect in the city centre only up until Christmas Eve, as many of their parents and brothers and sisters have done before them. The general public will also have an opportunity to give donations at SHARE cribs in specific shopping
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centres around the city and suburbs or at the Brother Jerome Kelly Day Care Centre in Sheare’s Street, Cork. ‘SHARE has provided almost 156 secure and comfortable housing units throughout Cork city during its 45 year history. The homes are of a high standard, are warm and homely and have all the necessary aids to ensure our SHARE people can live in safety and comfort. At the Day Care Centre they are provided with a range of practical services, including meals, a laundry service, and a network of support to help them to live comfortable, healthy lives in the heart of the community. Visit the SHARE Crib at Daunt’s Square, or visit their cribs at Mahon Point, Merchant’s Quay, Wilton, Blackpool, Bishopstown Court, Douglas Court and Douglas Village Shopping Centre. Alternatively, donations can be posted or delivered in person to SHARE, The Brother Jerome Kelly Day Care Centre, Sheare’s Street, Cork where acknowledgements will be issued immediately. www.sharecork.org
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Our Wedding Day Sinead & Paddys Wedding
Photos: Joleen Cronin photography
Bridesmaids: Erin Cantwell, Amanda Clarke, Sarah Murphy, Nicole Harris Grooms men: Olan Quinlan, Dave quinlan, Hughie callnan, Shay Cantwell
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THURSDAY 11/12/14
ISSUE # 1050
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
THURSDAY 11/12/2014
The Youth Guarantee
By Blackrock Citizens Information Service
QUESTION: What is the Youth Guarantee? ANSWER:
The Youth Guarantee aims to provide young people under the age of 25 with a good quality offer of employment, education, training or apprenticeship within a short time of leaving education or becoming unemployed. It is an EU initiative developed in response to the youth unemployment crisis across Europe. In Ireland the Youth Guarantee is being introduced on a phased basis and a range of initiatives were recently announced. Jobseekers under 25 who have been unemployed for over 12 months will be prioritised and given additional support during the Department of Social Protection (DSP) Intreo process for jobseekers. JobsPlus is an initiative that pays a cash incentive to employers who employ jobseekers on the Live Register. The qualifying period for JobsPlus for jobseekers under 25 has been reduced to four months. It will remain at 12 months for other jobseekers. Eligible young people, who are in the Live Register, will be given certification that they qualify for JobsPlus and they can use this when applying for jobs.
JERRY
BUTTIMER TD CONSTITUENCY OFFICE:
8 Douglas West, Douglas, Cork CLINIC DETAILS: Monday: 5pm Togher Community Centre, Togher Road 6pm Ballyphehane Community Centre, Tory Top Road Friday: 12:30pm Mahon Community Centre, Avenue de Rennes, Mahon. First and Third Fridays of each Month: 5pm Johnny’s Return, Crosshaven
A Youth Developmental Internship (YDI) is currently being put in place. Internships are expected to start from March 2015. The YDI will be aimed at young people aged between 18 and 24 who have little or no experience of work. The YDI is similar to JobBridge but offers more support to interns including a work preparation course and a shorter internship week of 4 days. YDI internships will not be publically advertised. DSP staff will select candidates and refer them for interviews with organisations that have offered internships. Other activities under the Youth Guarantee include a new Experience Your Europe (EYE) programme which offers sponsored internships in other EU countries, support for jobseekers who want to work in Europe and an apprenticeship programme in Germany. Employment schemes such as Gateway and Tús will have places reserved for young people who are long-term unemployed. Further information is available from the Citizens Information Centre below. Know Your Rights has been compiled by Blackrock Citizens Information Service which provides a free and confidential service to the public. Tel:0761 076930
Funding for Cork Festivals will help drive tourism
Cork South Central Fine Gael TD, Jerry Buttimer, has said €110,000 for Cork festivals will help to drive tourism. Deputy Buttimer was commenting following an announcement by Tel: 021 484 0652 Minister of State Michael Ring, TD, of funding for festivals Email: jerry.buttimer@oireachtas.ie including Cork International Choral Festival, Cork Midsummer Web: jerrybuttimer.ie Festival and West Cork Chamber Music Festival. “Festivals are an important part of our tourist attractions and this latest round of funding will ensure that in 2015 festivals continue to bring visitors to Cork. It is very welcome that €110,000 has been allocated to three Cork festivals which have a successful history of contributing to the tourism package across our city and county. “The Cork International Choral Festival has been providing entertainment and attracting people to Cork for over 60 years. It brings together leading amateur choirs from many countries in one of Europe’s premier international choral festivals. Each year about 5,000 people take part in the festival with many more coming to Cork to enjoy the performances. The €45,000 allocated by Minister Ring will help to ensure that the 2015 festival will be another success. “Since 1997 Cork Midsummer Festival has been delivering an impressive array of theatre, dance, music and artistic events. Each June the festival programme has many offerings, providing great entertainment for locals and visitors alike. The €25,000 provided to the festival will help to deliver another programme that will boost tourism in Cork during the month of June. “Festivals not only attract visitors to Cork but they also create and sustain employment. Research by Fáilte Ireland shows that almost 11,000 people are in paid employment in festivals and almost 50,000 people engage with festivals on a voluntary basis. Minister Ring’s announcement of almost €2 million for 16 festivals will help to sustain these jobs and support the efforts of all of the volunteers who make these events a success.”
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Dr Stefan Billing, Functional Neurologist & Chiropractor
Dr Stefan Billing, BSc, B. Chiro, DACNB Functional Neurologist Consultant Chiropractor The Truth About Neck Adjustments There are many chiropractic techniques that focus specifically on the neck because of its benefits.Chiropractor adjusting womans neck If you’ve tried to refer a friend or family member to our practice, you may have encountered some incorrect views or ideas about chiropractic. Here’s the truth about one of the safest, most effective forms of natural health care:
Here are the facts:
• A study published in the journal Spine observes, “There is no increased risk related to chiropractic treatment in the heated debate about whether neck adjustments can trigger a rare type of stroke. Researchers say patients are no more likely to suffer a stroke following a visit to a chiropractor than they would after an appointment with their medical doctor.” • Current research shows there is no scientific evidence establishing a causal relationship between stroke and chiropractic adjustments. • Chiropractic malpractice insurance premiums are among the lowest of health care professionals because chiropractic patient risk is so low. • Research recently published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal reports the risk at one in 5,000,000 patient treatments. These estimates are far below the risks commonly associated with many other medical and pharmaceutical interventions. Chiropractic has helped millions of people over the years and many experts agree that neck adjustments may be critical in relieving many patient conditions. There are even types of chiropractic that focus specifically on the neck because of its benefits. There are times when adjusting the neck is not warranted and we will know when that is. At the same time, disallowing a chiropractic adjustment on the neck when warranted could be like allowing only one or two of your car’s wheels to get aligned. As with any procedure performed on a human’s body there are risks, but with chiropractic adjustments rest assured that risk is proven to be minimal and is considered safe.Woman receiving a therapeutic massage. If you’re suffering from neck pain, let us do an examination and together we can determine if chiropractic might help you!
Call (021) 429-2445 and book a half hour exam with Dr Stefan Billing at Koru Chiropractic, Ardfallen Medical Centre, Douglas Rd Koru Massage is back at Koru Clinic! • Remedial • Sports Injury • Therapeutic • Indian Head • Reflexology • 30 min €40 • 1 hr €75
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World Health Organisation Certificate for Cork City
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ecently the Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Mary Shields accepted a prestigious certificate from the World Health Organisation on behalf of Cork City. The Certificate acknowledges Cork city’s commitment and contribution to the World Health Organisation European Healthy Cities Network during 2009 – 2013 and is signed by Dr Agis Tsouros, the Director of Policy and Governance for Health and Wellbeing. Cork city has been awarded such a Certificate, as a result of the hard work and commitment of Cork Healthy Cities steering group. Cllr Kieran McCarthy noted; “The Certificate is a reminder that health and well being is everyone’s business and we in Cork will continue to strive to make Cork a healthier place to live in and grow old in”. Katherine Harford, Healthy Cities Chair, commented that “this is a really exciting time for people involved in Cork Healthy Cities, we have supported a number of city wide initiatives to improve health outcomes for people of the city, and as well ensuring that health is on all our minds when designing and planning for activities and services. Cork Healthy Cities is centred on social inclusion, I am very proud to be involved in a structure where community and voluntary organisations have an equal voice in working together”. In January 2012 Cork city was designated by WHO as a healthy city. Cork Healthy Cities is a collaborative partnership between representatives from Cork City Council, Health Services Executive, University College Cork, Cork Sports Partnership and community and voluntary organisations. To date Cork Healthy Cities has supported a number of initiatives including. Age Friendly City, EcCoWell, Cork Food Policy Council and Feed the City Event, Cork City Profile 2014, Implementation of Cycleways, and the Traveller Horse Project Proposal. Cork City Council has applied to participate in Phase VI of the WHO European Healthy Cities Network 2014 – 2018.
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31a/b St Patricks Woolen Mills Douglas, Cork
Tel: 021 489 0101
www.decthevet.com info@thevillagevetdouglas.com Open Mon-Fri 8.30am to 7.00pm Sat 10.00am to 3.00pm Sunday: Emergency only Tel: 021 4 890101
Getting Ready for ‘Battle’! – Puppy Prep! Having considered all that is involved in getting a puppy at Christmas time and deciding that you can make this lifelong commitment, below are several things that will make the transition easier and help your puppy develop into a healthy, happy member of your family. Ten essentials for your new addition.
Food and Treats: Puppies need certain
nutrients to grow strong bones and muscles, to feed their developing brains, and to build their immune systems. You will want to choose the food that is tailored to meet your pet’s needs during this crucial stage, or you may have to pay for it in veterinary services, medications and special diets later in life. Treats should also be healthy and nutritious.
Bowls: This is a must since puppies need
to eat about three times a day and require a bowl of fresh water nearby most of the time.
Chew Toys:A new puppy will chew anything
in her path: furniture, plants, your shoes! Avoid this by offering her plenty of toys to chew instead. It may take some trial and error to figure out what your dog likes best, so start with a multipack of puppy bones, squeak toys, furry toys, and rubber balls. However, nothing that may accidentally be swallowed or choked on.
Collar: Your puppy should start off with a flat leather or nylon collar that is equipped with a buckle closure. Then, after about a month, replace it with a perfect fit collar -neither loose nor tight around the neck.
Leash:The leash is one of the most effective tools for keeping the puppy in place and maintaining his attention. Choose one that feels right for both you and the pup, not just one that is sparkly all over.
Bitter Spray: After puppy-proofing your
home, there may still be a few items you can’t just place out of puppy’s reach, like the corners of your furniture. Pet-friendly bitter spray can be applied to most household
items. It’s scentless for humans, but tastes nasty to dogs, and keeps their curious mouths away. Baby Gates: You’ve probably seen these used to block doorways and keep certain areas in the home off-limits to toddlers. They can be used for your puppy, too. It’s important, however, that the openings on the gate walls not be large enough for the puppy to stick her head in. This may lead to an accidental strangulation.
Training Pads: Sometimes referred to as
wee-wee or pee pads, these are essential for puppies not fully immunized and not yet allowed outside. They may also be a permanent solution for apartment dwellers or others who find outdoor housetraining impractical
Crate and Bedding: Though it may take
a little training, puppies love the comfort and security of their own crate. The crate should have three “walls” and a front gate she can see through. It should also not be too large, but not too small either. Ideally, your puppy should have enough room to sit up or stretch out. Then add some bedding.
68,612 CORK FAMILIES GET CHILD BENEFIT BOOST Some 68,612 of families in Cork will receive a €5 monthly increase in their Child Benefit in January. Deputy Ciarán Lynch said it is an example of how local people are beginning to share in the economic recovery that Labour is delivering. “Child Benefit helps people meet the everyday costs of raising a family. The monthly €5 increase in Child Benefit for each child will make a positive difference to 68,612 families in Cork, benefitting 131,437 local children in total. Ciarán Lynch TD Constituency Office 29 St. Patrick’s Mills Douglas Tel: 021 4366200 Fax: 021 4366202 ciaran.lynch@oir.ie
“It means a family with two young children will receive an additional €120 a year in child benefit. I am pleased that we were in a position in the Budget to do this and there is no doubt it is down to recent positive news on the economic front. “The Government has also committed to increase the rate by a further €5 for each child in 2016, provided that the circumstances allow. “Tánaiste Joan Burton has set as her aim ensuring people feel the economic recovery in their everyday lives, and the Child Benefit increase is yet another example of how the Labour Party is making that happen.”
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THURSDAY 11/12/14
Ask your Phamacist
By Garvan J. Lynch
rest is OK, but more than a couple of days actually does more harm than good. If home treatments aren’t working, your G.P. may suggest stronger medications or other therapy.
Back pain Back pain is a common complaint. Most people in Ireland will experience lower back pain at least once during their lives. Back pain is one of the most common reasons people go to the doctor or miss work. On the bright side, you can take measures to prevent or lessen most back pain episodes. If prevention fails, simple home treatment and proper body mechanics will often heal your back within a few weeks and keep it functional for the long haul.
Alternative medicine A number of alternative treatments are available that may help ease symptoms of back pain.
Herbal treatments
Some herbal supplements with anti-inflammatory properties may ease back pain. Although more research is needed to reliably determine their safety and efficacy, some studies suggest that the following herbs may be helpful: Willow bark and Devil’s claw. Hands-on therapies Chiropractic care, Acupuncture and Massage have all proved to be useful in treating back pain.
Symptoms
Mind-body techniques
Symptoms of back pain may include:
Cognitive behavioral therapy. Chronic back pain is commonly associated with emotional stress and mental health conditions, such as depression. In cognitive behavioral therapy, you learn to identify and change negative thought patterns that have a damaging impact on your mental and physical health. Research has found that this type of therapy may significantly relieve chronic low back pain.
• Muscle ache • Shooting or stabbing pain • Pain that radiates down your leg • Limited flexibility or range of motion of your back • Inability to stand straight Back pain that lasts from a few days to a few weeks is considered acute. Pain that lasts for three months or longer is considered chronic. Your back is an intricate structure composed of bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons and disks. Disks are the cartilage-like pads that act as cushions between the segments of your spine. Back pain can arise from problems with any of these component parts. In some people, no specific cause for their back pain can be found.
Treatments and drugs Most back pain gets better with a few weeks of home treatment and careful attention. A regular schedule of over-the-counter pain relievers may be all that you need to improve your pain. A short period of bed
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Progressive relaxation. This relaxation technique involves systematically tensing and relaxing different muscle groups in your body. Progressive muscle relaxation boosts your ability to recognize and counteract muscle tension as soon as it starts. Evidence suggests this technique helps ease back pain. In addition, a type of yoga called Viniyoga — which emphasizes both postures and breathing exercises — may help ease back pain and reduce the need for pain medications. You may be able to avoid back pain by improving your physical condition and learning and practicing proper body mechanics. If you would like more information regarding back pain, contact Garvan at Lynch’s pharmacy, Broadale on 4366923.
ISSUE # 1050
THURSDAY 11/12/2014 of what is happening in the community centre and around the Mahon Community, not to be missed! www.facebook.com/mahon.centre
Two Time Polka at the Rockies Club on Sat. Dec. 20th. Two Time Polka, one of the most popular and talented band’s we have ever featured at the Rockies Club, will make a welcome return on Saturday Dec. 20th. In the midst of the hustle and bustle of preparations for Christmas, this will be an ideal way to escape from it, all and really have some fun into the bargain. So, why not treat yourself to a Christmas Bonus and come along on the night. It will start at around 9.30pm and as usual----admission is FREE. Happy Christmas to everyone, and thanks for all the support during the past year.
Above: Santa in Mahon Community Centre
Blackrock Hurling Club Weekly Bingo in the Club Pavilion every Thursday Night at 8.15pm Mahon Community Bingo continues every Tuesday night at 8pm – All welcome. Anam Cara Cork Parent Evening Anam Cara support groups are situated throughout Ireland and provide parents a safe, comfortable environment where they have the opportunity to connect with other bereaved parents. Anam Cara is an inclusive organisation where parents do not identify themselves by their children’s age, how they died, or if their death was recent or many years ago. What Anam Cara provides is a safe place for bereaved parents to connect with others who understand the intensity of the grief and loss. For further information please see our website at www.anamcara.ie email us at info@anamcara.ie or call 01 4045378. BEGINNINGS PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP Beginnings parent and toddler group have a number of places available to parents and children who would like to join the group. We meet each Wednesday at the Mahon Family Resource Centre between 10am – 12pm for activities which include painting, play dough, song time and friendly chat over a cup of tea/ coffee. To join our group or for more info please contact Christine on 021-4358866 Mahon Community Centre Check out our new Facebook Page for daily updates
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CINEMA
PUZZLES Mental Problems to solve
Crossword
Local Cinema Listings
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
THE HOBBIT: THE BATTLE OF THE FIVE ARMIES (12A): 2.00 5.15 5.45 8.30 8.45PM TINKERBELL AND THE LEGEND OF THE NEVERBEAST (GEN): 2.00 4.00 + SAT & SUN @ 11.30AM PENGUINS OF MADAGASCAR 2D (GEN): 2.00 4.15PM + SAT & SUN @ 11.30AM GET SANTA (GEN): 2.00 4.15PM BLACK SEA (15A): 9.00PM ST. VINCENT (12A): 9.00PM THE PYRAMID (16): 6.30PM PADDINGTON (GEN): 2.00 4.15PM + SAT & SUN @ 11.30AM
Brain Teazer You are walking down the road when suddenly there is a terrific bang. A bomb has exploded. You look round and, to your horror, you see a scene of dreadful carnage with bodies lying all over the road. Miraculously, through you are only a few feet away, you are completely unscathed. How could this be ?
Last Week’s Answers
HORRIBLE BOSSES (15A): 6.30PM THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY PART 1 (12A): 6.30 9.00PM NATIVITY 3 (GEN) SAT & SUN @ 11.30AM
Last Week’s Teazer: A frog sits in
the centre of a circular pond with a radius of 6 metres (19ft). He jumps straight towards the edge of the pond, a distance of 3 metres (9ft 6 ins.) but this tires him and every subsequent jump is exactly half the distance of the jump before i.e. 1.5 metres (4ft 9ins, 75cm (2ft 4 ins), etc How many jumps does it take for him to reach the edge of the pond?
Last Week’s Answer: The frog will never reach the edge
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Last Weeks Crossword Answer:
FROZEN SINGALONG (GEN): SAT & SUN @ 11.30AM
WIN 2 Cinema tickets! email: “cinema” with your name and contact details to competitions@douglaspost.ie
ISSUE # 1050
THURSDAY 11/12/2014
Ballinlough Community News With Mary Cremin
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
Ballinlough Writers Group
The next meeting of the Ballinlough Writers Group will be held in The Ballinlough Community Centre on Fri 19th Dec at 5.30 PM. The Ballinlough Writers Group meets on the 3rd Friday of every month at 5.30pm. We look forward to seeing you there! (inquiries 086 8839392)
Ballinlough Youth Clubs
The Ballinlough Youth Clubs hosted their annual Christmas Concert on Sunday December 7th in the Community Centre. The audience were treated to a spectacular evening of entertainment. The Ballinlough Junior Youth Club opened the show, followed by Terry McCarthy and Donal Ring. Lorraine Manley and Terry sang some duets. Then Jerry (the Liar) Millar had people falling off their seats with laughter at his whimsical life lessons and tall stories. At the interval everyone was treated to tea/coffee biscuits, cakes and the most gorgeous mince pies, The raffle took place, they were a lot of lucky winners. The second half was superb beginning with Frank O’Connell sang accompanied by his guitar. Then Lorraine Manley accompanied by Eddie Fuller performed to an audience completely captivated by her sweet songs. Local Councillor Kieran McCarthy followed, he was in fine voice. The night finished with the fabulous Memory Lane singing olden goldies and Christmas songs to put us all in the festive mood. Our M.C. for the night was Noelle Corbett. It was a great nights entertainment well done to the Ballinlough Youth Club Events Committee.
Bingo
Bingo every Friday in the Community Centre at 8.15p.m.
45 Drive
45 Drive every Thursday night in the Community Centre at 9.00p.m.
Our Lady of Lourdes N.S
Our Lady of Lourdes N.S. recently launched a Christmas CD entitled Seoithin Seo”. The girls were delighted to have been given the chance by John Gibson, the well-known Cork composer and pianist, to record his songs and carols on a CD. This venture has created great excitement in the school as every child in the school is involved. The CD’s are retailing at a cost of €5 and are available in the school office on the Ballinlough Road.
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THURSDAY 11/12/14 “Thank you Douglas Post I received several calls since advertising with you”.
TRADES & SERVICES
PILATES
Tuesdays 7.30pm Fridays 5.30pm, 6.30pm and 7.30pm
GARRYDUFF SPORTS CENTRE PHYSIOTHERAPIST LED
6 Weeks €75
8 Weeks €100
Beginners, Improvers and Advanced
Contact: Niamh 087 9355776
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The Douglas Post For Great Advertising Rates Contact Marie, 0894408242 or marie@douglaspost.ie
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THURSDAY 11/12/2014
ISSUE # 1050
SPORT Raffeen Creek Pitch and Putt By Brendan Hayes
Saturday 27 hole scramble results Overall Nett winners were that man again Jimmy the Leak John O Grady and David Howard Sunday morning turkey competition results 1st Nett Sean O Sullivan Charlie Morrissey 1st Gross Weeshie Murphy and Barry Morrissey(looks like the Morrisseys are going to have a bumper Christmas) Saturday the 13th @ 8pm in the Stables Bar Carrigaline for our Christmas night out club man and player of the year will be announced also turkey winners can collect their prizes. Meeting Thursday night 6,16pm in clubhouse.
Short Mat Bowls Results & Fixtures –Cork Zone. With Michael J. O’Shaughnessy
Short Mat Bowls Results & Fixtures – Cork Zone) (8th December 2014) Ladies Inter Zone Shield (Match) played on Saturday 6th December 2014 in St. Anthony’s School Hall, Ballinlough, Cork. ( Cork Zone defeated the Northern Zone by 65-shots to 33-shots). (Match report in next weeks notes) The first round of the Mens Inter Zone Shield Competition was played on Saturday 29th November 2014 between the Cork Zone and Mid Antrim Zone and was held in St. Anthony’s School Hall, Ballinlough, Cork. The home team made an impressive start and led by a single shot after two ends but over the next three ends, the away team scored ten shots and conceded four to leave the visitors ahead by five shots at the end of the first quarter. In the second quarter of the match the Mid Antrim team scored a ten in the sixth end and increased their lead to fifteen shots (24/9) but the next three ends were very close but in the final end of the first half the visitors scored a further nine to the home team’s single to finish the first session, leading by twenty four shots (41/17) In a keenly contested third quarter the home team scored 11-shots for and their opponents scored 12-shots to increase their
lead by a further shot (53/28) In the final quarter of the match the away team gradually increased their overall lead and ran worthy winners by thirty three shots. It was a dissappointing performance by the home team on the day ,only winning one game out of the six played. Congratulations to the Mid Antrim team and wishing them every success in their next match. The Umpires on duty for the match were as follows:- Eddie Bannon, Tom Liston, Michael J. O’Shaughnessy and Seán O’Suilleabhain.
(1st Session):(Match Details – Cork Zone versus Mid Antrim Zone with the Cork Zone names first):(Rink 1):- ( T. Kenneally , S. O’Regan , D. Crowley & Conor Middleton) lost to (J. Graham, A. McCombe, D. McCullough & A.Calawell)(5/12) (Rink 2):- (Rink 2):(K. Middleton , L. Conlon , H. Burrowes & Con Middleton) lost to (T. Morrison, S. Alexander, D. Duncan & N. Booth)(7/9) (Rink 3):- (G. Tanner , S. O’Riordan , D. Feeney & M. Sisk) lost to (A. Booth, T. Lithco, A. McCullogh & A. Morrison) (5/20) (2nd Session):-
Frankfield Golf Club 3 Man Team, 6th and 7th of December 1st - Frank O’Shea (19), Joe O’Neill (16), Jim Barrett (16) - 70 pts 2nd - John Scott (8), Patsy Harte (8), Mick Dowling (9) - 69 pts Fixtures 13th & 14 Dec - Singles Sunday 14th @ 9.30am - AGM Frankfield Committee, Frankfield Golf Club, Cork. Tel: 021 4363459 Email: frankfieldgc@gmail.com Web Page: www. frankfieldgolfclubmembers.com Like us on Facebook -www.facebook. com/FrankfieldGC.
Soccer in your area! Grangevale AFC are looking for new players for the new year. This local club has served Grange and Douglas since 1976 and now we want you to help forge it’s future. Adult players wanted immediately from 18 upwards. Experienced players especially sought but all welcome. Contact Anthony at 0833164300 or check us out on Facebook, Grangevale AFC.”
(Rink 1):- (P. O’Regan , T. Healy , T. Murphy & D. Twohig ) lost to (P. Miller, R. Rodgers, I. Craig & A. Cohoon)(6/11) (Rink 2):- ( M. O’Regan , P. McCarthy , J. O’Donoghue & J. Kirby) lost to (G. Maybin, A. Bonnar, M. McCullough & Morrison) ((2/13) and (Rink 3):(C. O’Sullivan, J. O’Driscoll , J. Long , & Adrian Tanner) beat (M. Craig, A. Graham, M.McMaster & W. Morrison) (10/3) (Match Result):- (Cork Zone 35-shots) and (Mid Antrim Zone 68-shots) (Fixtures):- Christmas Fun Bowls Tournament on Sunday Above: Pictured at Youghal Golf Club for the start of the annual drive in are the officers for the 2015 14th December at St. season; Philip Crowe, Captain, Breeda Fitzgerald, Anthony’s School Hall, Lady Captain, and Peter Murray, President. Ballinlough.
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hotel & leisure centre
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Carrigaline Court Hotel & Leisure Centre, Carrigaline, Co. Cork Tel: 353-21-4852176 Email: leisureclub@carrigcourt.com Web: www.carrigcourt.com