KILLARNEY ADVERTISER 2 DECEMBER 2022

Teens theory is a national winner

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Hotels, B&Bs and other accommodation suppliers in the Killarney area have secured contracts in excess of €13 million to accommo date Ukraine war refugees.

| By Sean Moriarty

The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth released figures to the Killarney Advertiser. Documents show that contracts totalling €13,852,255.00 are being shared be tween 13 premises in the Killarney urban area.

However, the department warned these figures are “indicative” only and the full value of the contracts depends on “occu pancy and actual usage”.

The Eviston Hotel has secured a contract worth €5,727,590.00, the Innisfallen Hotel in Fossa for €2,404,620.00 and The Killarney Hotel signed a deal worth €1,701,000.00. These are the three biggest contracts published in the docu mentation.

This is only the tip of the iceberg, and Department officials say more contracts could come on stream. Figures seen by the Killarney Advertiser only cover con tracted premises up to the end of Sep tember this year and updated figures are only released every three months.

“We are in contract with far more, but the formal exchange of contracts can take

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Homing refugees worth almost €14m

place sometime after the service com mences,” a department spokesperson told the Killarney Advertiser.

“The Department of Children, Equali ty, Disability, Integration and Youth is obliged to publish a list of contracts for mally signed off each quarter that have been awarded under a special EU Dero gation that permits the Department to enter into contracts in the context of the Ukraine accommodation crisis without going to formal tender.

“The values of the contracts shown are estimates; the actual value materialises upon occupancy and actual usage. Stand ard contracts have no-fault break clauses available to both parties so again, the figures are indicative rather than actual.”

These figures only cover Ukrainian refu gees fleeing the war and do not include International Protection Applicants.

The Department refused to release Inter national Protection Applicant figures to the Killarney Advertiser.

“The International Protection Applicant accommodation contract information is commercially sensitive information and is not available,” added the Department spokesperson.

PREMISES

CONTRACT VALUE

Innisfallen Hotel €2,404,620

Cherry Tree Guesthouse €180,180

Eviston Hotel, Killarney €5,727,590

The Hotel Killarney €1,701,000

Fairhill Holiday Homes €172,935

KDYS Killarney €636,870

Killarney Country Club Lodges €183,000

Killarney Inn €1,032,300

McSorley’s €823,500

Neptune's Hostel €515,520

Parkfield House €47,600

Three Lakes Hostel €1,250,640

Towering Hospitality Properties €564,480

TOTAL €13,852,255

Killarney hotels are still open for business

| By Sean Moriarty

Only a few of the town’s 37 hotels are homing displaced people - ac cording to Bernadette Randles, chair of the Kerry branch of the Irish Hotel Federation.

This week she said that there's still ac commodation to be found in Killarney for visitors. She was speaking in relation to the current accommodation situation facing International Protection Appli cants and Ukrainian war refugees.

She explained that there is a perception that Killarney has taken in too many ref ugees and that it is putting the tourism industry at risk as people are starting to think that the town is at full capacity.

“If you can’t get a room in Killarney there is something wrong,” she said. “Maybe with the exception of New Year’s Eve.”

She added that hotels that are providing emergency accommodation are helping off-season unemployment.

Many hotels remain in survival mode after two years of pandemic turmoil and

Garda investigate fatal accident

Killarney Gardaí are investigating the cause of a fatal road traffic col lision on Rock Road on Wednesday evening.

The single vehicle collision occurred at

approximately 5.40pm. The driver of the car, a female aged in her 60s, was pronounced dead at the scene. Rock Road was closed for a number of hours as Garda Forensic Collision Investigators

the additional off season business is im portant, she explained. “Many could be closed at this time of the year, others would not be operating at full capacity,” she added. However, she warned the Government needs to put a plan in place before the tourism season starts next year. Some hotels offering emergency accommo dation either have a three or six month contract. “I can see there will be tears next April – the Government must have a long-term plan,” she said.

conducted a technical examination of the scene. Gardaí in Killarney are appeal ing for any witnesses to come forward. “Any road users who were travelling in the vicinity of Rock Road between 5.15pm and 5.45pm and who have cam era footage, including dash-cam, are asked to make it available to Gardaí,”

said a Garda spokesperson. Anyone with information is asked to contact Killarney Garda Station on 064 667 1160, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station. We at the Killarney Advertiser send our deepest condolences to the family at this very sad time.

Bernadette Randles, chair of the Kerry branch of the Irish Hotel Federation.

Tragedy as local man dies in farm fall

Couple celebrate 50 years of marriage

| By Sean Moriarty

It only took 50 years of married bliss but one couple were finally able to invite one of their brothers to their wedding celebration.

him that day, I keep telling him he was home all alone,” Chris jokingly told the Killarney Advertiser.

“We made up for it, he was at our 50th celebration in the International Hotel on Sunday.”

| By Sean Moriarty

Willie (73) and his wife Anne ran the Avondale House B&B on the Tralee Road for the last 30 years – only retiring from the business after this year’s summer season.

A former ESB worker, in retirement Willie turned his attention to farming in his na tive Brosna.

Unfortunately he fell from a ladder while tending trees there last Friday evening and died as a result of his injuries.

“He was a hard-working man who loved nature and animals,” his son Kevin told the Killarney Advertiser.

“He was proud of his kids and we were proud of him. It is a warning that people need to take care while working alone in farms.”

Willie was laid to rest on Tuesday in Agha doe Lawn Cemetery following his Requi em Mass at St Mary’s Cathedral.

He is survived by his wife Anne, four chil dren, Nicola, Noel, Caroline and Kevin, his four grandchildren, extended family and friends.

Christmas in Killarney is just wander-ful

Christmas in Killarney, in associa tion with the National Parks and Wildlife Service, will host a very exciting virtual Christmas treasure trail in Killarney this year and it will greatly enhance the fun of the sea son of goodwill.

Wanderful Christmas is a digital orien teering experience for families who are invited to follow the map and scan the special markers placed around the town and in the National Park to meet hidden virtual Christmas characters.

Unlock all the characters to receive a sought-after Wanderful Certificate and the aim is to use technology to get chil dren outdoors and more active.

This is Wanderful’s second collaboration with the National Parks. Earlier this year they launched Ciar’s Quest in Ross Is land, enticing almost one thousand fam ilies to meet and learn about the hidden wildlife of the park.

Wanderful are once again delighted to partner with the NPWS and Christmas in Killarney to encourage families to get active and enjoy Killarney town and the 26,000-acre National Park during the festive season.

To download the App, view the map and for more information visit www.wan derful.ie/christmas/

• This is a free, daytime family activity with parental supervision required.

• The tail starts at the ANAM Cultural Centre on East Avenue Road and loops through the National Park and Killar ney town

• It involves a 2.7km easy buggy-friendly walk

• The App saves your progress so you can do the trail all in one go or come back again and again to complete the route.

Chris (nee Cronin from Aghadoe) and Christy O'Brien from Marian Terrace were married in the now disused Saint Lelia's Church in Fossa on December 9, 1972.

Chris comes from a large family; she has 10 sisters and five brothers.

The second oldest or “second in com mand" as she jokes herself, was 21-yearsold at the time of her wedding.

Her youngest brother, Michael had yet to celebrate his first birthday so he was unable to attend the ceremony or the celebration afterwards in The Gleneagle Hotel.

“He keeps asking me who was minding

It was a double celebration for the O’Brien clan. Not long after their mar riage they were one of the first couples to take up residence at the then newly constructed Pinewood estate in town. On Sunday last they also celebrated 50 years in their home.

Chris and Christy have one son, Alan, and he and his wife Denise recently cele brated 10 years of marriage.

“I keep telling them they have 40 more years to go,” added Chris, who will be 72 in January.

She paid tribute to the staff at the Inter national Hotel who organised a memo rable celebration for the golden couple and their extended families.

TRAGEDY: Willie Leahy died in a farm accident last Friday.

50 YEARS MARRIED: Chris and Christy O'Brien (seated centre) with their family at the International Hotel on Sunday celebrating their 50th Wedding Anniver sary. Front row l-r were: Denise McSweeney, Chris and Christy O'Brien and their son Alan O'Brien. Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

There was an air of sadness around Killarney when news spread that local man Willie Leahy died in a tragic farm acci dent.

Set against the relaxing backdrop of live piano music and served in the warm and contemporary surroundings of The Peregrine, expect a scrumptious feast of scones, cakes and pastries all with a seasonal flavour that pay tribute to the long standing tradition of Afternoon Tea.

T OWN TALK

Teens theory is a national winner

Watch out Dallas as three local students are ready to take their science theory and blow the competition out of the water.

| By Sean Moriarty

Liam Waldron, Rachel Griffin and Luke O’Sullivan, Sixth Year students from Kil larney Community College, were named SciFest STEM Champions 2022 for their Group Theoretic Approach to Pythago ras’ Theorem.

The national finals of SciFest Ireland were held at the Marino Conference Centre in Dublin last Friday and they were attend ed by finalists from across Ireland.

The amazing trio will now go on to rep resent Ireland at the Regeneron Interna tional Science and Engineering Fair (Re generon ISEF) which will be held in Dallas, Texas in May 2023.

The students secured their place at the national final after they won the overall prize at the SciFest regional competition at MTU Kerry in May this year.

Their project takes possibly one of the most well-known theorems that every one remembers from school, Pythagoras’ Theorem. It provides an alternate proof of it, while also highlighting how right-an gled triangles naturally provide a link be tween two coordinate systems and how this special case can naturally recreate the Pythagorean Theorem.

Supported by Intel Ireland and Boston Scientific, SciFest was set up 17 years ago by Sheila Porter and her husband George. It is the largest, most inclusive STEM fair programme for second-level students in Ireland.

Each year SciFest awards a ‘Teacher of Excellence’ and this year Máire Spillane was the recipient for her work with Luke, Rachel and Liam. She accompanied them to both finals and could not be prouder of this huge achievement at national level.

Killarney Community College held a whole school assembly to congratulate the SciFest champions in school and the SciFest STEM Champions 2022 were met with rapturous applause from all stu dents and staff.

Ms Spillane spoke about the importance of STEM subjects and acknowledged the fact that Killarney Community College of fers all students the opportunity to study all four of the disciplines, Science, Tech nology, Engineering and Maths and how our students are encouraged to submit projects every year into SciFest. It may be a competition run by science teachers, but in KCC cross-curricular co-operation by teachers of all subjects, is practiced on a daily basis.

064 6632215 or email: newsdesk@killarneyadvertiser.ie

Killarney Soroptimists are making a difference this Christmas

| By Michelle Crean

Killarney Soroptimist Club have once again banded together to provide a number of hampers for a Kerry charity.

ADAPT staff, which support hundreds of women and their children every year suffering from domestic violence, were delighted to receive the gifts yesterday (Thursday).

Killarney Soroptimist Club, together with family and friends, created Christ mas hampers for the fourth year in a row.

"We are very grateful to all the mem bers in Killarney who have again sup ported the women and children who use our service," Catherine Casey, Manager of ADAPT told the Killarney Advertiser.

"The refuge has admitted 65 families so far this year and we have reached out to hundreds more women across Kerry through our Outreach and Court Accompaniment services. This Christ mas will bring a lot of challenges for the families we support and it is thoughtful acts such as this, that can make all the

difference to women and children who have experienced domestic violence and coercive control."

The Killarney Soroptimist Club Rep resentative, Teresa Irwin, added that they are very happy to donate these Christmas hampers to ADAPT once again this year.

"We are thrilled with the response and the generosity of our members," she said.

"We wish to thank all those that donat ed. Hopefully the hampers will help lift the spirits of the women who avail of supports and let them know that they are valued and supported."

ADAPT Kerry and the Killarney Sorop timists have built a very good relation ship over the last number of years, Catherine added.

"There is no doubt that their work rais es awareness of our service and has contributed to many more women making contact with us for support by phone, through our outreach service and availing of refuge. You can support our services through the donation but ton on our website kerryrefuge.com."

If you would like to talk to ADAPT Kerry please ring 066 7129100 anytime.

Loreto road closures until Christmas

Residents of the Sheree area of Loreto Road near Muckross are ad vised of road closures in their area.

Over the next few weeks the L-3017 will be closed between 8am and 6pm from

Monday, December 5 until Friday, De cember 23.

The road is closed to allow Irish Water contractors install a new water mains in the area.

Diversions will be clearly signposted.

TEXAS HERE WE COME: Killarney Community College are SciFest STEM Champi ons 2022 and will now go forward to represent Ireland at the Regeneron Inter national Science & Engineering Fair in Dallas, Texas in May. From l-r: were Sixth Year students Liam Waldron, Luke O'Sullivan and Rachel Griffin, pictured with teacher Máire Spillane.

Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

HAMPERS: Manager of ADAPT, Catherine Casey, pictured with members of the Killarney Soroptimists Theresa Irwin, Noreen Browne, Mary Broderick, Tina Diggin, Sheila Casey, and Bridie Brosnan, who delivered hampers yester day (Thursday).

Give A Magical Gift Ex perience

Killarneyparkhotel.ie

Dare to dip for AWARE

Christmas morning may be chilly but locals will once again dare to dip for an annual fundraiser.

| By Luke Courtney

The Dundag Christmas Day Dip is back and starts at 11am.

For the past two years the event took a break due to COVID, and now organiser Niki McCarthy from Tiernaboul is once again inviting everyone along to come and support it.

She has been doing her annual Christmas Day Dip in Muckross since 2009 in mem ory of her sister, who tragically passed away in 2004 due to suicide.

“We all run in together,” she told the Killarney Advertiser. “It’s a great way to spread awareness for mental health.”

Niki also explained the marvellous pro gress her fundraiser has seen throughout

the years.

She says it started with few and is now between 100 and 150 people.

You can contact Niki if you wish to donate to the cause and receive a sponsorship pack on email nikimcmoney@gmail.com or phone 086 160 86 73.

She has also set up a fundraising page and said that people can set up their own pages and link it to the Killarney Christ mas Day Dip event on iDonate 'Killarney Christmas Day Dip 2022'.

"I truly believe it to be a wonderful way to balance remembrance and awareness of issues with mental health and illness," she said.

"We have raised just over €60k so far, so that is fantastic."

Rotary Youth Leader heading to Strasbourg

A Killarney student will represent Ireland at the Rotary Youth Leadership trip to Strasbourg in February.

Having progressed beyond the Killarney stages of the competition, Abbie O'Sul livan, a Fifth Year student at St Brigid’s Presentation attended for interview in Cork on Wednesday, November 23. Her success at this national stage of the interview process has meant that Abbie will be one of 24 students chosen from schools all around the country to repre sent Ireland at this prestigious event next year.

The Rotary Youth Leadership Competi tion is one of the longest running Rotary youth projects. It rewards young people with clear leadership potential based on their extra-curricular activities.

The finals were hosted this year by Bish opstown Rotary Club in The Lee Hotel, Cork. Abbie was interviewed by a panel of three who represented the private sector, the public sector and education. It was a tough interview but Abbie came out smiling and was happy with her per formance.

Abbie, daughter of John O’Sullivan and Aisling Crosbie from Faha, hopes to study politics in University.

The exciting six day team building trip in February begins in Belfast where the stu dents have a visit to The Titanic Centre, a tour of Stormont and they will meet with local politicians and business leaders. They then travel to Dublin where they are invited to an information seminar and lunch hosted by the staff of the European Parliament offices.

This is followed by a tour of Dáil Eireann and further meetings with politicians. Af

terwards the group fly to Strasbourg and prepare for the highlight of the trip which is a full day of debating a variety of mo tions at Euroscola at the European Parlia ment in Strasbourg along with about five hundred students from all over Europe.

Killarney Rotary Club have been hosting this at club level for many years and are delighted to say they have had many win ners in the regional finals over the years who have gone on this trip and say it is an amazing experience and one they will never forget.

President Rayla Tadjimatova said she is thrilled to see this young lady go forward representing both the club and her school in Strasbourg. She congratulated Mr Jer Lyons, Abbie's teacher and thanked him for preparing her. She wishes Abbie well in her future and hopes all her dreams come true.

Santa at Kate Kearneys Cottage

Santa will be at Kate Kearneys Cot tage over the next three Saturdays during his many stop offs in Killarney.

Mr Claus will be onsite from 3pm to 6pm tomorrow (Saturday December 3), Satur day December 10 and 17. This will be in aid of the Kerry Hospice

Foundation with a minimum donation of €5 per child to visit the big man himself. There will also be free face-painting for any child while they wait to see the big guy.

"Our elves will be on hand to take all your details and will also help with family pho tos," Sean Coffey said.

SWIM: Niki McCarthy is organising the Dundag Christmas Day Swim to raise funds for AWARE. Photo: Michelle Crean

SPECIAL VISIT: Santa will pay a special visit to Kate Kearneys Cottage.

REPRESENTING ROTARY: Abbie O’Sullivan from St Brigid’s has been chosen to represent Ireland at the Rotary Youth Leadership trip to Stras bourg in February 2023.

We look Great in Stockings!

Whether your brunching, lunching, sleeping over, grabbing dinner or enjoying the best cocktails in town, The Ross gift card gives you the gift of choice. Be it a weekend away or a midweek treat, our vouchers are the perfect gift to ensure a great time on your own time. Did we mention our gift cards are redeemable at our fancy-pants big sister property The Killarney Park?

Christmas at The Ross

Visit theross.ie Email hello@theross.ie Town Centre, Killarney, Co. Kerry. Ireland.

Marie Meets

Well-known and much loved photographer Marie Carroll-O’Sullivan chats to locals about their news, views and accomplishments in her monthly column ‘Marie Meets’.

Ho Ho Ho! Santa takes time to talk to the Killarney Advertiser

Totally ‘sleighing’ my inside information this week - I nailed an inter view with the big man himself, Santa Claus!

Santa was checking into the International Hotel for the weekend to launch the first Christmas in Killarney Parade on Saturday evening last.

Did you park the sleigh in the Glebe San ta?

“Ho-ho-ho not at all Marie, I arrived by steam train this evening. The reindeer must preserve their energy and need a full 28 days sleep to generate high speeds of up to 650 miles per second. Dasher by name and Dasher by nature is the fastest of the lot and is in top form this Christ mas,” Santa replied.

Is it the same route as always Santa? “Yes, it’s a race against the speed of light so beginning with the South Pacific, New Zealand and Australia. After that Japan, Asia, across to Africa, then Western Eu rope, Canada, the United States, Mexico, Central and South America. The route can sometimes be affected by weather but the reindeer and I have always got the job done!” Santa replied.

What do you prefer to be called; Santa Claus, Santy, Kris Kringle, Nick?

Oh my, I hope I don’t have as much ego as I have names. Santa or Santy will do me fine. Maybe Santa Claus on formal letters and correspondence, just to be sure to be sure you get the right man… I won’t tell you what Mrs Claus calls me!

Wow Santa, all that travelling, you must sleep for a month after your super ex press delivery?

VISIT: Santa Claus, pictured catching up with all things local with the Killarney Advertiser, at the International Hotel on his visit this week.

“Myself and Mrs Claus usually recuperate by February and we take off on a Super Valu break in disguise. Mrs Claus espe cially loves Killarney National Park and makes a point of visiting the reindeers' cousins, the red deer on occasion and I enjoy Torc Waterfall and taking a boat trip on the lakes with Dux. I also love a good hot chocolate and Killarney is elite when it comes to this,” Santa replied. With that Bar Manager Dara McCarthy ar rives with the most delicious looking hot chocolate complete with an abundance of marshmallows and topped with lash ings of cream!

“Are you making up for lost time?” San ta asked Dara. “I’m never going to make it onto that nice list am I Santa,” Dara

laughed. “Perhaps tonight is your lucky night Dara, this hot chocolate is a definite 12 and a half out of 10,” Santa slurped.

"People like to leave out all sorts of food items for you all over the world, dif ferent things like a glass of milk, some cookies, maybe mince pies… what is your favourite food to find when you go down a chimney?" I asked.

"To be honest, I’m becoming almost as jelly as I am jolly these days! I need to lose some weight, ho, ho, ho! So, the less I eat on Christmas Eve is probably better. If you really want to leave something out for me, I’d say just go with a small glass of water or milk, and perhaps one carrot for the reindeer to share at each house is plenty."

One last thing before we go. What would you say to any children out there who are reading this?

Oh, I’d tell them that it’s nearly Christmas time now, not long to go, so it’s good to be as nice as you can. Help your parents with anything they ask, take some time to remember others around you, and remember, Christmas is a time for under standing the magic held within the hearts of all that believe in the spirit of Christ mas. Thank you to everyone who has come to see me at the Christmas in Kil larney parade. It's one of my most special things to do in the lead up to my express delivery coming soon. Merry Christmas to you all and I hope I don't see you on the 24th, ho, ho, ho!

Christmas magic begins as Santa arrives in Killarney

He came dashing through the town on Saturday night and packed streets greeted him with huge excitement.

Yes, that's right - Santa Claus took some time out of his very busy schedule and arrived to town for the annual Christmas in Killarney switching on of the Christ mas lights and Christmas magic parade on Saturday night.

Spectacular Christmas floats, Disney characters, amazing snow horses, danc ers, performers and famous US charac ters hit the town with a vengeance and, of course, Santa Claus himself, on his stunning reindeer sleigh.

Sam Maguire also took pride of place and centre stage in Killarney.

Each Saturday night the parade will leave from the Fitzgerald Stadium, heading

along Lewis Road, turning on to College Street, Plunkett Street, Main Street and High Street before heading back up to the stadium via St Anne’s Road.

There will be parades tomorrow (Satur day), Saturday next (December 10) and Saturday, December 17 so there will be plenty of opportunities for all the boys and girls – and the young at heart – to turn out to meet and greet Santa.

While he was in town on Saturday last Santa took some time off to have a chat with Killarney Advertiser columnist Ma rie Carroll-O'Sullivan - check it out on page 14.

ARRIVAL: Santa Claus pictured arriving in Killarney for the annual switching on of the Christmas lights and Christmas magic parade on Saturday night. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan

Killarney Municipal District Area Councillors, Cllr Niall ‘Botty’ O’Callaghan, Cllr Donal Grady, Cathaoirleach Killarney Municipal District Cllr John O’Donoghue, Cllr Brendan Cronin, Cllr Marie Moloney, getting into the atmosphere in Killar ney for the annual Christmas in the town with the switching on of the Christmas lights and Christmas magic parade on Saturday night. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan

Monastery Boys National School pupils taking part in the annual Christmas in Killarney parade in the town with the switching on of the Christmas lights and Christmas magic parade on Saturday night. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan

Grace O’Hare, pictured with her dad Conor, has the best position in the town to watch Santa Claus arriving. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan

The magic begins for the Patterson family, Alex, Irene, Catherine and Rob ert, in Killarney for the switching on of the Christmas lights and Christmas magic parade on Saturday night. Pho to: Valerie O’Sullivan

Let's celebrate Ukrainian-Irish Christmas together!

| By Natalya Krasnenkova

On Sunday, December 11 there will be a charity Christmas concert of Ukrain ian and Irish music in St Mary's Church in Killarney at 3pm.

The concert will include traditional Ukrainian carols - Christmas songs that are performed during many win ter holidays in Ukraine. In addition to solo songs, all guests will hear the performance of young violinists, the five Yershovy’s sisters and the perfor mance of Ksenia Rusnak, who mas terfully plays the ancient Ukrainian instrument - the bandura.

Bandura is a relative of the medieval lute, known in Ukraine since the 12th century as Kobza. Folk songs and Cos

sack poems are usually performed on the bandura. Residents of Killarney will have a unique opportunity to hear virtuoso playing on this instru ment and be transported back to the 16th century. It was during this period that playing the bandura became very popular in Ukraine.

At the invitation of Ukrainians, Irish musicians will take part in the concert - which ones are still a surprise.

The organisers say that for Ukraini ans, it is very important to share their Christmas traditions with the local community, and at the same time learn how Christmas is celebrated in Ireland. Despite seemingly differ ent cultures, we have many points in common. So, for example, the famous

Christmas song Carol of the Bells, which is performed all over the world, was written by the Ukrainian compos er Mykola Leontovych and is known in Ukraine as 'Shchedryk'.

With this concert, Ukrainians also want to thank the entire local com munity for their warm welcome and hospitality and also to collect funds for a shelter in the city of Khotyn in Ukraine. In this house, priests receive women and children who lost their homes and suffered violence during the war. The house is in dire need of electricity to keep the little refugees and their mothers warm.

Meanwhile, preparations for the concert are in full swing. The soloists rehearse their programme in the eve nings, attracting new voices to the choir.

“Ukraine was lucky to be among few European countries to preserve its authentic Christmas traditions with carol singing (kolyadky) and Malanka plays (vertep) - we will recreate this and other heritage at our concert. This is a great opportunity for you to get to know our culture better, and for us to bring our home closer during this fes tive time,” Yulia Spillane, one of the choir's soloists says.

An opportunity to meet Santa, Mrs Claus and the amazing elves at their magical grotto will be available in Killarney in the exciting leadup to Christmas.

The spectacular base will run from Thursdays to Sundays right up to De cember 23, with the doors open from 5pm to 9pm on Thursdays and from 12.30pm to 6pm on Saturdays and Sun days.

They are really looking forward to wel coming the boys and girls to their lovely grotto in the ANAM Arts and Cultural Centre on East Avenue Road, right in the heart of town.

Santa will spend some time with each family and he may even have a token Christmas decoration for each child to take home to keep in a special place to remind them of the day they met the most loved man in the world.

There will also be time for an optional

souvenir photograph which will be avail able for purchase separately.

Children that haven’t sent off their San ta letters yet can bring them along and post them in the special North Pole post office.

The Santa Experience is non-profit with all proceeds going back into the running of the Christmas in Killarney Festival. Those wishing to meet Santa are ad vised to book online and bring their tick ets with them at their scheduled time and to try to understand if things run a little over as each child reacts to Santa differently.

Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times and tick ets must be purchased for each family member with a maximum number of eight people per time slot.

Each visit will last approximately 20 minutes.

Visit www.christmasinkillarney.com for more information.

SEEING DOUBLE: It’s the most wonderful time of the year for newborn twins Jerry and Chloe O’Donoghue pictured with Santa Claus himself and their par ents, dad Jer (right) and mom Caragh (left), pictured at the International Ho tel, Santa’s residence for one night only ahead of Saturday’s Parade. Photo: Marie Carroll-O’Sullivan

N p delicious Christmas feast carefully created from the finest ingredients, using tried and tested recipes and expertly executed by Chad Byrne and his team of award winning chefs.

Appetizer

Selection of Brehon Breads

Hazelnut pesto Smokey tomato dip

Starter

Smoked salmon

Dublin Bay prawns

Apple and fennel salad Lemon yoghurt dressing

Spicy Marie Rose saucc Watercress to garnish

Mains

Glazed and sliced turkey breast

Smoked gammon Red wine jus

Cranberry Sauce

Creamy mash

Honey roasted root vegetables

Pancetta and brussel sprouts

Charred squash

Duck fat roasties

Wedge salad with ranch dressing

Dessert

Apple crumble with Baileys custard Christmas log with brandy caramel Mince pies

Get a closer look at Conservation Ranger's work

Getting up close and finding out about the detailed work Con servation Rangers do will soon literally be in your hands!

| By Michelle Crean

A glimpse of the work being done in the Killarney National Park will be made available online as Sam Bayley will be providing information and regular video features on his work as a Conservation Ranger.

One of the main roles of the Ranger is to monitor the wildlife within the Killarney National Park.

Sam’s particular focus is birds.

Some of this is through observation and other methods such as bird ringing, which requires lots of training and licens ing in the use of nets to catch the birds and ensuring their welfare.

“Bird ringing helps us to study particular individuals within the population, so we can learn about their movements, habi

tats and how long they live for," Sam said. "A series of measurements such as wing length, weight, ageing and sexing are key factors for us to record.”

Updates can be found on the Killarney National Park Facebook page: www.face book.com/killarneynationalpark.

Foul language to be banned

|

By Sean Moriarty

Foul language will be banned in town under new byelaws aimed at regulating busking and street performers.

The Street Performers ByeLaws 2023 will go out on public consultation ahead of being implemented next June in time for the next year’s tourist season.

Under the plans buskers will have to apply for a licence from Killarney Munic ipal District offices, busking will only be allowed between 11am and 9pm and a time limit of two hours at any one loca tion will be implemented.

Sound will be limited to 80 decibels and the use of foul language will be banned.

The new byelaws were put before elect ed members of the Killarney Municipal District recently after several of them issued notices of motion at previous Council meetings over the last year.

“I have no problem with busking but

you should have to apply for a licence. At least then you have control,” Cllr Niall ‘Botty’ O’Callaghan said.

He was one of several who called for better regulation of busking in the town centre. Mr O’Callaghan’s family run the Fáilte Hotel in College Street and he said at the time that he was getting complaints from American tourists as one town centre busker was singing an ti-Donald Trump songs.

Earlier in the year, Cllr Donal Grady brought the matter up at the March municipal meeting after receiving com plaints from businesses on Main Street. “The people working on that street have to put up with it for up to five hours some days. It’s a disgrace. The town can’t afford to have music blaring on the streets,” he said at the time.

Kerry County Council officials used ex isting byelaws in other towns like Ennis, Dublin, Galway and Waterford to decide on what was most suitable for Killarney.

WILDLIFE UPDATES: Sam Bayley, Killarney National Park and Wildlife Conser vation Ranger, will be providing information and regular video features on his work. He is pictured with Conservation Ranger Mary Sheehan. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan

Photo of Chiffchaff. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan

50 YEARS: Paddy and Mary O'Donoghue, Shronaboy, Glenflesk celebrating their Golden Wedding Anniversary with their family last Saturday. Photo: Seamus Healy

BYELAWS: The Market Cross in a popular location for buskers.

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End of an era as Moriarty’s Centra Farranfore changes hands

Tuesday marked the end of an era of one very popular Farran fore business.

By Sean Moriarty

Moriarty's Centra has changed hands and proprietors Mike and Margaret Moriarty are looking forward to retirement.

First opened in 1999, the landmark shop has grown to become a central part of the community.

There was always at least one member of the popular couple on hand to greet regulars and newcomers that walked into the shop.

And it was always a warm welcome, punctuated by a joke or some easy-going banter because both Mike and Margaret had an incredible knack for making every one feel welcome.

Their tenure at the shop, at the cross roads of Kerry, started on December 4, 1999.

Just five short days before their 23rd an niversary, their time has come to an end.

On Monday night they completed the final preparations ahead of the arrival of the new owner on Tuesday morning.

"I don't know what it feels like," said an emotional Margaret. "I want to thank our loyal staff, many of who have been with us for years and years and all the won derful customers we have met. 23 years is a long time, some customers first came to us in prams and now they are pushing their own prams through the door."

Moriarty's Centra grew to become a cen tral icon in the village of Farranfore. They supported several community activities, and Margaret's love of athletics ensured that Farranfore-Maine Valley AC was also looked after. Mike's love of motorsport meant their shop sponsored the county rally championship and their dual love of the GAA meant Firies GAA could always rely on support.

Margaret was, and is fiercely proud, of the village and often volunteered to litter pick Farranfore's streets and sideroads. That kind of local loyalty paid dividends and customers from all walks of life and sporting backgrounds rarely passed the door without calling in for a chat and to catch up on local news.

Sam Maguire, Liam McCarthy and the Rose of Tralee were regular visitors over the years.

The business has grown from humble be ginnings back in December 1999.

Mike was so determined that his new shop would open in time for Christmas shopping that he was stocking shelves while the builders were still putting the finishing touches to the building.

A memorable story from this era comes from a local who, while passing the pass ing the construction site in late Novem ber, asked if Moriarty's would be open for Easter.

END OF AN ERA: Mike and Margaret Moriarty have retired from the supermarket and now their landmark shop, Moriarty’s Centra Farranfore is under new own ership.

It was opened a few days later and the Moriarty family has not looked back since.

But the time is right for them to retire to allow them to spend more time with their daughters and sons-in-law and grandchil dren.

They have witnessed multiple changes in the locality, the ever-expanding airport and the relatively new Farranfore Busi ness Park are just two examples, but the shop remained a constant throughout

St Francis Christmas choir is back

| By Sean Moriarty

After a break of three years the pupils and staff of St Francis Spe

cial School are ready to burst out the Christmas carols. They will go busking in the Outlet Cen

tre from 11am to 12pm on Friday, De cember 9.

All funds performed by St Francis Spe cial School Choir will be donated to the

that period of time.

"The time is right," said Mike. "I will miss it, I will miss the people, but I won't be too far away as I will keep the car sales going across the road."

On Monday night Margaret and Mike locked the door of the shop that bears their name for the final time.

New owner Peter Keane of Keane's Su perValu in Killorglin turned that same key on Tuesday morning to begin a new era in one of the most famous shops in the county.

care facility.

“We are delighted to announce that our busking trip will take place on Decem ber 9 in the Killarney Outlet Centre. Our pupils and staff are so excited that we can go busking again. All welcome,” teacher Mary O’Riordan said.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL: St Francis Special School's choir is in the Outlet Centre on December 9.

Wine, art and lots of catching up!

| By Michelle Crean

Over 50 exhibitors gathered in the Great Southern Killarney as the Killarney Rota ry Club's fundraising event - which is one of the biggest in the town each year - was back after a COVID break.

During the afternoon the artists and crafters, many who travelled from all over Kerry, Clare, Cork and even Wa terford this year, organised their display for the event. Later that evening there were a lot of familiar faces but also some new people who absolutely loved the evening.

There were many wines available to taste as well as cheese and breads at the event which is run in conjunction with Daly’s SuperValu, Killarney and Killarney Brewing Company.

"There was a huge attendance and everybody was in good spirits to be back to normal," President of Rotary, Rayla Tadjimatova, said.

"Many of the patrons were buying some art as Christmas presents and the mem bers of Rotary were delighted to be kept busy packing these. A portion of all art sales goes to the fundraiser. One local young man, who is only 16, exhibited his beautiful photographs of local scenic areas. There was an auction of donated

works of art and a Kerry Jersey. All one hundred percent of the proceeds from this auction goes to the fundraiser."

Mike Neeson entertained the crowd on arrival and right until the end of the night.

"Mike is a great supporter of our events and we would like to thank him for keep ing everybody entertained."

The Irish Pilgrimage Trust ran the raffle and they had some wonderful hampers and gifts to be won.

Beneficiaries from this year's event are: Coolick NS, Gaelscoil Faithleann NS, Knockanes NS, Holy Cross Mercy NS, St Francis Special School, Kerry Stars, Kil larney Athletic AFC, and Killarney Cou gars Basketball Club.

She thanked everybody for attending and everyone for their help organising the event.

Some, she added, had never been be fore and said they did not know what exactly the night involved but will defi nitely be back again next time as it was "so enjoyable".

"We hope the money raised will help the beneficiaries to proceed with projects," she said.

"We are delighted for Rotary to be able to help these charities, community groups and schools through our fund raising event."

Spirits were high and the atmosphere electric at this year's Wine & Art Night which had a huge attendance on Wednesday night.

Lisa O'Connor, Ursula Coffey and Karen Smith, pictured at the Great Southern Killarney enjoying the Killarney Rotary Club’s Wine & Art evening on Wednesday night. Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

Enjoying the Killarney Rotary Club's Wine & Art evening at the Great Southern Killarney on Wednesday evening were: Heidi Grandeur, Cathal Walshe and No reen McGillicuddy. Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

Lisa Aherne, Niamh Williams and Emer Coffey, enjoying the Killarney Wine & Arts evening on Wednesday at the Great Southern Killarney. Photo: Marie Car roll-O'Sullivan

Artist Ailbhe Courtney (centre) pictured at the Great Southern Killarney, exhib iting her work at the Killarney Rotary Club’s Wine & Art evening, with Deirdre Courtney (left) and Jackie McCarthy (right). Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

Enjoying Killarney Rotary Club's Wine & Art evening at the Great Southern Killar ney on Wednesday from l-r were: Hannah Sheehy, Kathleen Coffey, Ellen Moyni han and Danielle Crowley. Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

Nancy Dineen (left) and Patricia Man gan (right). Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sul livan

Ellen Kovalenko (left) and Sophia Stebakova (right). Photo: Marie Car roll-O'Sullivan

Comedy drama ready for the stage

Get out your diary and book in these December dates as Dochas Drama Group is ready to take to the stage.

| By Michelle Crean

What does a hypochondriac, a grumpy fa ther and a confused visitor to the dentist, all have in common? You'll have to come along to the Killarney Avenue Hotel on Monday, December 12, Tuesday 13 and Wednesday 14 at 8pm to find out. The popular drama group will present

their three new comedies featuring the work of playwrights Brian Bowler, Ger Madden and Mary Quirke. Come along for a night filled with fun and laughter. Just the right beginning to the festive season. Doors open at 7.15pm and tickets are available at the door. All tick ets; adults, seniors, students and children are €10. Don't miss a great night out.

STAGE: 'Mary' played by Liz Ryan with 'John' played by Don Rohan from Dochas Drama Group who have three plays this month.

West End students showcase talent with local drama group

Students from Michael Fassbend er’s West End School of the Arts are getting the chance to showcase their talents through a local performing group.

Four Esquire Productions is a amateur drama group based at Courtney’s Bar on Plunkett St founded in 2019 by Pad dy Osborne and Brian Bowler.

This week the group’s November schedule featured a three-play run over three nights.

The upstairs section of the well-known music and arts bar was packed out for the three nights as audiences from near and far witnessed Four Esquires’ latest run.

All three plays are written, directed and performed by local enthusiasts.

Drama schools combine to offer youth theatre sessions

Siamsa Tíre has announced a new youth theatre residency with a local drama school.

Starting on January 14, classes will run weekly in Siamsa Tíre, led by drama professionals from the West End House School of Arts on New St.

Young people aged over 12 are invited to a free taster session on December 17 in Siamsa Tíre from 12 - 2pm with Jessica Plunkett.

Places are limited, so it is recommended to book early for both the taster session and the Youth Theatre term.

“It has been a priority for us to establish a Youth Theatre Club because it was Donie Courtney’s ambition to see this happen in

his home county. To have a residency at Siamsa Tíre for a group of young people who want to come together and create their own work is simply magic. It’s exact ly what we’re about at West End House and we’re already looking forward to see ing what this beautiful space inspires,” Creative Director at West End House, Jessica Courtney Leen, said.

The West End House School of Arts, which was founded by the late Donal Courtney (Jessica Courtney Leen's un cle), and actor Michael Fassbender, has been successfully running acting classes with secondary school students, visiting international students and adults since September 2021.

“There is a wealth of talent in this county. We are also very fortunate to have several actors who are training in the West End House School of Arts, involved in the new show,“ said Paddy Osborne. “It is great for them and fan tastic for us too."

The group were also joined by actress Myroslava Voronoska, a member of Killarney’s Ukrainian community, who made her debut in Osborne’s ‘Fishy Tale’.

“Courtney’s Bar has long been associ ated with dramatic events both sched uled and unscheduled. From the days of Bricru in the 1990s to the current Four Esquires, the building has hosted many varied, innovative and off the wall productions,” Brian Murphy of Courtney’s Bar said.

YOUTH THEATRE: Announcing the Siamsa Tíre Youth Theatre Taster Session on December 17 in conjunction with the West End House School of Arts l-r were: Roisin McGarr (Executive Director Siamsa Tíre), Jessica Courtney Leen (Crea tive Director West End House School of Arts), Olivia Howe (Creative Learning Assistant Siamsa Tíre), and Gemma Doorley (Creative Director West End House School of Arts).

ACTION: Killian Fleming and Martin O’Brien pictured in action during the Four Esquire’s play in Courtney’s Bar.

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Santa is coming to town - and the Outlet Centre!

Santa has made a special arrangement with Mrs Claus that he will spend every Saturday and Sunday afternoon at Killarney Outlet Centre in the build-up to the most magical time of the year.

It’s the type of seasonal opportunity that every child dreams of – a chance to meet and greet Santa Claus himself and to let him know what, exactly, is on that festive wish list.

The man in the red suit is planning a few whistle-stop visits to Killarney in the leadup to Christmas, just to ensure his naugh ty or nice list is up to date and to check that he hears, first-hand, what every body is hoping to find under the tree on December 25.

And, if they bring their own cameras or smartphones, they can get their own souvenir photographs with the most popular man in the whole world at this time of the year.

Santa will be in his cosy corner at the Kil larney Outlet Centre from 1pm to 5pm every Saturday and Sunday and there will

be gifts galore throughout the stores for that different shopping experience.

Great value special offers will be up for grabs and Killarney Outlet Centre gift vouchers can be used in all of the stores, with 16 outlets to choose from.

“We were thrilled that Santa accepted our invitation to spend every Saturday and Sunday afternoon with us between now and December 18 because we know just how busy he must be at this time of the year,” said centre manager Paul Sher ry.

“Luckily, he was very familiar with the Christmas in Killarney festival and just how magical the town is at this time of the year so he was only too delighted to travel down from the North Pole to meet all the boys and girls and their families and friends.”

Women's health the topic of conversation

| By Michelle Crean

A special women's health night turned out to be a winner as or ganisers HeartBeat experienced their largest ever attendance.

Held on Tuesday night in the Parish Centre, Park Road, the HeartBeat Spe cial Ladies Health Night kept the two nurses busy in the blood pressure clinic beforehand.

Dr Mary McCaffrey, one of the coun ty's most well-known obstetrician and gynaecologist, was at her best on the night. She covered all health sources of concern clearly and effectively.

And there was great interest from the floor during the Q&A session as women had many questions about their health concerns.

Then Mary and the two nurses, Anna O'Donoghue and Triona Casey, took time out to have one-to-one chats with people afterwards.

"It was a night where people who had worries or concerns about personal health issues got help and clarity and support," said HeartBeat treasurer Lucy Clifford.

"We were delighted with the numbers that came along, especially those who travelled from as far as county Limerick to be with us."

Proud parents celebrate Irish dancer's success

A local Irish dancer celebrated a very successful year by winning the Munster Championship in Kil larney last weekend.

Six-year-old Alexandria Scally started dancing with the Aine Murphy Dance Academy in Gneeveguilla less than two years ago

She made her competitive debut this year and has won competitions all over Ireland and Britain.

“She only started competing competi tively this year and has won every single under six championship she has danced in,” her mother Blathnaid said.

“We have travelled all over the UK and Ireland this year. She has won four majors

including The British National Champi onship, The All Scotland Championship, The Great Britain Championship and on Thursday of last week she ended her win ning streak with a Munster Champion ship title in her home town of Killarney. She works so hard and travels to Gneeve guilla four days a week to practice with Aine. We are so very proud.”

YOU BETTER WATCH OUT: Santa Claus will be in the Outlet Centre every Satur day and Sunday for the next few weeks.

HEALTH ADVICE: HeartBeat Nurse Anna O’Donoghue with Dr Mary McCaffrey (Obstetrician and Gynaecologist) gave great health advice at the HeartBeat Special Ladies Health Night on Tuesday night.

DANCER: Alexandria Scally has won competitions in Ireland, England and Scotland this year.

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This year, Sisu Clinic is lifting spirits by lowering prices on some of their most popular treatments with savings up to €250, and results that last for months, making it the gift that keeps on giving! Visit sisuclinic.com/seasonal-promo tions for more information. If you’re unsure of a specific treatment to

give to that special someone, treat them to a Sisu Clinic gift card, now with 10% added value.

Available in a wide range of denomina tions, and redeemable on any treatment and in-store purchases, a beautifully wrapped Sisu Clinic gift card is the per fect present this Christmas.

Visit sisuclinic.com or call 01 912 0429 for more information.

Give the gift of Sisu this year Rathmore students look to the future

Students in Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra, Rathmore looked to the future as they explored third level opportunities.

The teens took part in a number of ac tivities to mark College Awareness Week which was held in schools and other edu cation settings nationwide last week. The focus throughout the week in their school was to highlight the wide range of options open to them when they leave school and to realise that there are path ways to suit all types of learners.

Students from First to Sixth Year took part in activities to get them thinking about their future plans.

First and Second year students complet ed a module on ‘My Pathways’ and Third Years had an introductory talk on options after school.

Transition Year students worked on a display on all the options and pathways available after school which will remain up permanently.

Senior Cycle students attended the Ca reers Fair in Munster Technological Uni versity (MTU) where they got a chance to meet universities, colleges of Further

Education, agricultural colleges, appren ticeship and more education and training providers from around the country in cluding past student Aidan O'Mahony at the stand with An Garda Síochána. Leaving Cert and LCA students had a re ally informative talk in school on Further Education and apprenticeships from Ella O'Donoghue, Admissions Officer with Kerry College.

The week finished with a talk for Senior Cycle students on Business and Law op tions in UCC by Ian Wallace.

“A highlight of the week was the involve ment of past students, who sent us vid eo clips on their career stories so far and shared tips with students,” Niamh Dwyer, Guidance Counsellor at the school, said.

“It was fabulous to see how well our for mer students have done and it was really important for our current students to see the diversity of pathways they have taken including apprenticeships, Further Education courses, university, travel, setting up businesses and returning to education as mature students. We are really grateful to the past students who reconnected with us for this week, their input

was inspiring and invaluable.”

GIFT: The Sisu Clinic on High Street has a range of treatments available which can be pur chased as

for a loved one.

THE FUTURE: Students in Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra, Rathmore attended the College Awareness Week in MTU where they met Rathmore man Aidan O'Mahony.

COURSES: Students in Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra, Rathmore attended the College Awareness Week in MTU to see the range of courses on offer.

Students have fun on educational London trip

The 87 girls took a tour of London on their first day in the city after landing. They visited some of the famous loca tions on the journey, such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Trafalgar Square. They en joyed a night at the Lyceum Theatre in the West End watching 'The Lion King'. The girls went to The Natural History

Museum on day two, which has one of the world's greatest collections of histor ical artefacts. They took their time look ing around the massive cathedral-like structure's sculptures and frescoes. Four coloured zones that focus on topics in cluding the environment, evolution, the planet, and wildlife make up the muse um's divisions. They then took pleasure

in a trip to the fascinating Science Muse um. It was the ideal location for someone with an inquisitive mind, full of amazing things to do and explore.

The Victoria and Albert Museum was the next stop on the itinerary. The V&A's collection of art spans 5,000 years, from prehistoric periods to the modern era. The Mouse Trap, an Agatha Christie play, was the entertainment for this evening at the St Martin's Lane Theatre. The play's 70th anniversary was this week.

On day three, the girls boarded a cap sule for a 30-minute spin of the London Eye and marvelled at the breath-taking sights of London. After that, they went to the Royal Observatory Greenwich's Planetarium and Astronomy Centre, where they experienced an amazing ad venture through space. They went to the Prime Meridian in Greenwich, planting one foot on the eastern and the other on the western hemisphere of our planet. The girls ended their evening at what was a highlight for many at Winter Won derland in Hyde Park.

On the final day before flying home, the girls went to Oxford Street to do a spot of shopping.

"A great trip was had by all where many memories were made," said Sheree Mur phy, one of the teachers who travelled with them on the trip.

New meeting space opened at The Gleneagle Hotel

A brand-new meeting rooms fa cility has opened at The Gleneagle Hotel.

MoD Suites includes five meeting rooms in total, located adjacent to the hotel’s existing conference and events spaces.

“We have dedicated this new meeting space to our late father Maurice O’Dono ghue. Our dad spearheaded the devel opment of The Gleneagle Hotel and The Gleneagle INEC Arena. We especially re member him for his flair for innovation, foresight, and ability to realise projects. His influence is still very much a part of our ethos today,” said Patrick O’Dono ghue, CEO of The Gleneagle Group. “MoD Suites at The Gleneagle are de

signed to inspire innovation through col laboration. The design, layout, state-ofthe-art equipment, and IT solutions are the result of the culmination of over 60 years of experience in hosting conferenc es and events.”

As well as complementing the existing conferencing facilities, the MoD Suites can also be booked for exclusive hospi tality options for groups and private par ties attending concerts in The Gleneagle INEC Arena. By doing so, concert-goers can avail of fast-track access and pre and post-gig food and drinks options.

To find out more or to book a MoD Suite for your next meeting or hospitality event call 064 6671550 or email sales@glenea glehotel.com.

Leaving Certificate students from St Brigid's returned home Sat urday night after a hectic four-day tour to London.

The St Brigid's group in front of Big Ben and West Minister on a recent trip to London.

MEETING SPACE: A brand-new meeting rooms facility has opened at The Gle neagle Hotel. Pictured at the opening were: Brian Miley (left) (Group Business Development Manager), Patrick O’Donoghue (CEO The Gleneagle Group) and Margaret O’Donoghue. Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan

Staff celebrated for their long service

Stalwarts of the tourism industry in Killarney were delighted to celebrate their long term team members with a gourmet dinner in the Great Southern recently.

The event was held for all team members of the Great Southern and Killarney Royal who have over 10 years of service, and was hosted by Michael Jacobi, Managing Director, Hayfield Family Collection and Mark Scally, Financial Controller, Hayfield Family Collection.

32 employees celebrated on the night, with the Great Southern represented by John Fitzgerald with 53 years of service, Martina O’Leary with 44 years of service and Kathleen Bhuiyan with 31 years of

service. From Killarney Royal Joseph Hur ley celebrated 37 years of service with John Harrington celebrating 32 years and Nuala Doolan celebrating 30 years.

“It is an absolute pleasure for us to cel ebrate our long term staff members," event host and Hayfield Family Collection Managing Director, Michael Jacobi, said. "They have played such an integral part in achieving the high standards we are known to provide and are such familiar welcoming faces for our guests.”

Fitzgerald, Eamon Canty, Kamile Lyne, John Har rington, Joseph Hurley, Kathleen Bhuiyan, Martina O’Leary, Nuala Doolan, Cao imhe Spillane, Eugene McGillycuddy, Mark Scally, Aine McMahon, Maura McCa rthy, Michael Jacobi, Kathy O’Callaghan, Vera Mitchell, Michael Cronin, Joanne Brosnan, Pal Palfi, Catherine Fleming, Olga O’Donoghue, Maria Pfister, Massimo Mirabile, Roksana Malinowska,

Night of nostalgia for Muckross Rowing Club

A special evening of nostalgia and history was held at Muckross Rowing Club on Friday night.

It was the occasion of the 50th anniver sary honouring the winners of the Killar ney Regatta Senior four-oar race of 1972.

The crew welcomed back Donie Cronin who resides in Australia.

The original photo was replicated for old times sakes and includes John Lyne, Kathleen Murphy who was standing in for J O’Shea (Cox), Denis Horan, Donie Cronin and Pat Casey.

Rowing historian John Beazley gave the citation of the historical day in 1972. The presentation cup dates back to 1886, known as the ‘Great Southern & West ern Railway Hotel Cup’ and includes the first winners of that year - ‘The Drapers’ (Commercial Rowing Club) and every rowing club in Killarney has its name in scribed since the cup's inception over 136 years ago.

Family members of the crew were joined by Past Vice-Presidents, Dan Kelleher, Ulick Daly, Pat Casey and Gerry Murphy.

LONG SERVICE: Photo shows some of the long service award recipients in the local tourism industry: John

and Mariusz Nowaczyk. Photo: Don MacMonagle

ANNIVERSARY: A large group came together at Muckross Rowing Club Killarney on Friday night for the 50th anniversary honouring the winners of the Killarney Regatta Senior four-oar race of 1972. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan

OLD PHOTO: Muckross Rowing Club winners of the Senior Four-oar Race - 1972. Standing l-r were: D. Cronin, P. Casey. Front row: J. Lyne, J O'Shea (Cox) and D. Horan.

Credit where credit's due as long serving staff members acknowledged

| By Michelle Crean

Long standing staff members have clocked up over one hundred years of service between them.

Killarney Credit Union' Karena McCar thy, Elaine O’Shea, Mairead Brosnan and Jennifer McCarthy celebrated 25 years of service last week.

The presentation was made in recogni tion of their service and dedication to Killarney Credit Union.

Karena began working in Killarney Credit Union in April 1997, Elaine in September 1997 whilst Mairead and Jennifer both began in October 1996. Karena is Mar keting and Business Development in Killarney Credit Union, Elaine works in Credit Control and Mairead and Jennifer are both Loan Officers/Member Services Officers.

John Casey, Loans Officer/Member Ser

vices Officer in the Cahersiveen branch has 20 years' service, was also acknowl edged.

Emma Looney, currently on maternity leave, was acknowledged for 10 years service. Emma works in Member Ser vices and Accounts. Lastly Operations Manager Elma Culloty and Noreen O’Sullivan, Loan Officer, were both rec ognised for five years service.

Killarney CU CEO, Mark Murphy, thanked and praised all for their dedica tion, work ethic and professionalism.

“Each and every one of these staff have become an invaluable asset to the team and the credit union,” he said.

“They are widely known and respected by our many members and their dedi cation to the members is exemplary. It is not often we get to say thank you and we were delighted with the opportunity to say a huge thank you through these staff recognition awards."

100 YEARS’ SERVICE: Between them they have 100 years of service at Killarney Credit Union. From l-r were: Jennifer McCarthy, Mairead Brosnan, Karena McCa rthy and Elaine O'Shea. Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

FIVE YEARS: Celebrating five years of service at Killarney Credit Union is No reen O'Sullivan (left), pictured with CEO Mark Murphy (centre) and Elma Culloty (right). Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

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INSPIRED BY DANNY CASEY

Family reunited with missing daughter after 51 years

Melissa Highsmith (53) was reunited with her family this week after she was abducted in 1971 from her home in Fort Worth.

At the time she was just 22-months-old when taken by her own babysitter.

For years the mystery stumped Melissa’s family, police and other authorities as they searched in vain to locate her.

It turns out that Melissa was renamed ‘Melanie Walden’ and she was of course unaware that her real family were still looking for her.

‘Melanie’ ignored the attempts of a fam ily reunion through Facebook as she thought it was a scam.

However, everything changed on No vember 6 once the Highsmith’s were able to connect Walden to the family using an amateur genealogist Lisa Jo Schiele and the website ‘23andMe’. “It’s overwhelming, but at the same time, it’s the most wonderful feeling in the world,” Melissa Highsmith says. According to the family, their chase and eventual finding of Melissa was without police or any other federal authorities. It is also said that the family got a tip off where Melissa was back in September, which was South Carolina, over 1,000 miles away from where the family lived, in Fort Worth, Texas. Melissa was reunit ed with her mother, father, and two out of four siblings on Saturday.

"Our finding Melissa was purely because of DNA," the family wrote in a Facebook post. "Not because of any police or FBI involvement, podcast involvement, or even our family's own private investiga tions or speculations."

“Our family has suffered at the hands

of agencies who have mismanaged this case,” Sharon Highsmith, Melissa's sis ter, said. Sharon also says how she is especially happy for her mother Alta Apatenco, who she believes was “racked with guilt” and was originally accused of the murder of Melissa.

‘Je Suis une baguette’ fan goes viral

Even with the absence of a football team the Irish still made their pres ence felt in Qatar this week.

Limerick man Eddie O'Keeffe, who works for Amazon in Dubai, is now known as a famous broadcast gate-crasher, after hilariously uttering the words "Je suis une baguette" (I am a baguette) live on French television.

A French fan was speaking post France vs Tunisia on the broadcast, up until Eddie made his mark, and imprinted Ire land once again, at the World Cup. Declaring that he was indeed a baguette, the French fan looks on in confusion, and begins talking again as a laughing Eddie scurries off.

Perhaps Eddie was simply thinking of the first French words to come to mind, the very common ‘Je Suis’ and the most famous French food ‘baguette’.

“My phone has been hopping! I can’t even do a day’s work here!” Eddie said this week.

The reaction to the sly, seeming ly-drunken comment from Eddie has been nothing but laughs from Irish sup porters.

Ex-CIA agent makes unsettling death-bed confession

From flying saucers to grey aliens, all was explained when a former CIA agent detailed the happenings of Area 51 on his deathbed.

The information has now just come to light.

It is understood that the interview be tween UFO researcher Richard Dolan and the CIA agent, who who went by the name ‘Anonymous’ to protect his identity to go on the record, happened back in 2013.

At the time the then 77-year-old agent

was apparently feeling like his life was coming to an end.

He claims while working under the name ‘Agent Kewper’ from 1967-1970 he saw many extra-terrestrial gadgets, machines and even beings while work ing in Area 51. One of these, he said, was a flying saucer that had “crashed and landed in Roswell, New Mexico, 1947”.

He also claimed there was aliens taken from the hurtled craft and brought into the facilities of Area-51.

He explained how some aliens died and that the saucer had an outside of “what looked like heavy aluminium foil, and weighed between 150-300 pounds”. Dolan then asks the agent about the ap pearance of the grey alien, in which he details that he saw the film of the alien creature being interviewed. He said it "didn’t look human as far as skin tone”, and that “the brain was kind of a little bit bigger and the nose was very, very small and the ears were just like holes and the mouth was very small”.

A 51 year-old Texas kidnapping mystery has been solved thanks to a DNA test.

STRANGE: Alleged CIA worker ‘Agent Kewper’ talking about his experiences from 1967-1970.

REUNITED: A reunion of many emotions as mother Alta (left), Melissa (centre) and father Jeffrie Highsmith (right) are brought together after 51 years due to an abduction in 1971, Texas.

Who's in the mood for non-stop Christmas songs?

It’s finally time to break out the Christmas decorations and deck the halls as Christmas FM is back on air this week officially kicking off the 2022 festive season!

The much-loved station, which switches Christmas on in Ireland marking the start of the official Christmas season for many, will play round-the-clock Christmas tunes, spreading an abundance of festive cheer and seasonal goodwill in the run up to the big day.

Christmas FM, which is celebrating its 15th year on air this year, has raised over €3 million for a range of charities since it began broadcasting. This year, the radio station has launched a new fundraising initiative called ‘The Magic of Christmas,’ which brings together Barnardos, Bar retstown, Make-A-Wish Ireland and The

Community Foundation for Ireland as their official charity partners for the next three years.

Christmas FM is aiming to raise over €1,000,000 over the three years to help the charities support vulnerable children in our communities affected by traumatic life events such as poverty, abuse, ne glect and bereavement, as well as sup porting children whose lives are affected by serious childhood illness.

Listen on FM, log on to www.christmas fm.ie or listen on the App, your smart speaker or connected device at any time of the day to hear your favourite Christ mas hits.

Christmas FM will also broadcast on Vir gin Media Channel 900. Find out all the ways to listen at www.christmasfm.com/ listenin.

Theft of sporting medal in Wexford

Gardaí in Wexford are appealing for information following the theft of a sporting medal on Friday last.

The theft is believed to have occurred between 4pm and 7pm following a bur glary at a residence in Farnatrane, Oyle gate.

An All-Ireland Hurling winners medal from 1948 was stolen along with other items of jewellery and is of significant personal value to the victim.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Gardaí at Enniscorthy 053 924 2580, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

U2's Larry Mullen may quit band

U2’s legendary drummer Larry Mullen may be forced to call time on his career.

It is understood that Mullen, one of the founding members of the band, requires surgery if he is to continue drumming.

Mullen, who is adversely shy of pub licity, gave his first interview in seven years to The Washington Post this week.

All four members of the band were in terviewed ahead of a lifetime achieve ment award that will be presented this weekend.

The article was written by Washington Post journalist Geoff Edgers.

"He [Mullen] is largely self-trained as a drummer, a powerhouse who now struggles with the physical toll of a life time of pounding. He’s the least public of the group’s four members, by far. The interview he gave for this story was, he said, his first in seven years,” said Edgers.

"He’s blunt - he says if the band plays live in 2023 it will probably be without him, as he needs surgery to continue playing - and admits the dynamics in the band are not the same as they were decades ago."

Twinning agreement signed between Dublin and Kyiv

The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Caroline Conroy, has signed an agreement to begin a twinning process with the Ukrainian city of Kyiv.

The Lord Mayor and the First Deputy Head of the Kyiv City State, Mykola Pov oroznyk, signed the Dublin Kyiv Twin ning Agreement during the Lord May or’s visit to the 2022 Kyiv Investment Forum in Brussels.

The signing of the document gives effect to the Emergency Motion passed at the Dublin City Council meeting of March 7 this year to express the solidarity of the people of Dublin with the people of Kyiv. “I am delighted that we can now official ly begin the process of twinning with the city of Kyiv. I met with Mykola Povor oznyk and conveyed to him the support of the people of Dublin. I know every one in Dublin, and indeed across the country, hopes that this unjust war will be brought to an end as soon as possi ble. Our thoughts are with our friends in

Kyiv,” Caroline Conroy, The Lord Mayor of Dublin, said.

The two cities will work together on identifying areas where they can strengthen and develop common inter ests and solutions to challenges.

CHRISTMAS MUSIC: Pictured launching Christmas FM in the Clayton Hotel Liffey Valley were: Garvan Rigby (Co-Founder of Christmas FM), Zhi Ming Qiang (Bar nardos), Alex Moore (Barretstown) and Isabelle Leamy (Make-A-Wish Ireland).

TWIN: Lord Mayor of Dublin and the First Deputy Head of the Kyiv City State signing a twinning agreement.

Photo: Dublin City Council

Killarney tourism history features in new Sliabh Luachra Journal

The growth of facilities for visitors in Killarney in the 19th century is recalled in the newly launched Sliabh Luachra Journal.

| By Sean Moriarty

An article in the 20th edition of the popular publication features the ex periences of the authors of two guide books who were among the early tour ists who travelled from Cork to Killar ney, via Millstreet and Rathmore.

In 1822, George Newenham Wright, an Anglican clergyman, told of finding two principal streets in Killarney, Old and New Streets, and three "tolerable" inns. However, when William Balch, an American Christian minister and cam paigner, came in 1850 tourism had developed further and Killarney had at least seven hotels, including the Royal Victoria (now the Castlerosse) and the Muckross Hotel (now Muckross Park Hotel).

Balch was enraptured by the scenery of Killarney.

“It seemed to me there could not be found a more beautiful place on earth. I certainly do not recollect the sight of one in all my travels,’’ he wrote.

SHOWBAND ERA

Two veterans of the showband era, Neilly O’Sullivan of The Radiant, and Jim McAuliffe of The Specialists, are interviewed for an article which recalls the halcyon days of the 1950s and ‘60s

when ballrooms like the Gleneagle at tracted thousands of dancers, week after week.

The Radiant was based in Scartaglin and the Specialists in Rathmore.

Neilly O’Sullivan, who has lived for many years in Killarney, drove his band’s Volkswagen minibus to venues all over Munster. On the roof of the minibus was an illuminated sign with the band’s name.

“As the electric sign on the roof ‘radi ated’ for miles, dancers could see us coming over the hills of Kerry and the excitement began,’’ Neilly said.

Jim McAuliffe recounted how The Spe cialists played in many top ballrooms of the era, including the Television Club, Dublin, the Gleneagle, and the Bran don in Tralee, where they once shared a stage with world heavyweight boxing champion, Joe Frazier.

“I enjoyed every minute of my time playing with The Specialists,’’ he said. However, signs of the demise of the showband era were apparent from the early 1970s as discos and more pop-ori entated bands began to take over.

“By 1975, changes in the entertainment scene were clear for all to see,’’ Jim said. As might be expected, traditional music features strongly in the journal, pub lished by Cumann Luachra, with articles by well-known trad musicians Michelle O’Sullivan and Emma O’Leary.

SHOWBIZ: Stories of the showband era are told in the latest edition of the Sliabh Luachra Journal. Photo: O’Sullivan Family Archive

Five-year destination plan underway

Those behind a destination development plan designed to build on a new collective vision for tourism in Killarney met earlier this week.

The Killarney Destination and Experi

ence Development Plan (DEDP) kicked off its 2023 planning on Monday morn ing at Fáilte Ireland’s Killarney Office. The Killarney DEDP was launched ear lier this year by Fáilte Ireland and out lines a new five-year strategy to pro

mote and maintain tourism in Killarney. By extending the tourist season and spreading business throughout the en tire region, the plan seeks to develop a tourist destination that is sustainable. At the meeting, representatives from

Fáilte Ireland, key stakeholders, tour ism industry members and the local community, discussed plans to help bring local experiences to life, including Muckross House and Killarney House along with festivals and events for 2023, as well as plans for welcoming domestic and international visitors to Killarney.

DESTINATION PLAN: Plans to promote and maintain tourism in Killarney were discussed at a meeting on Monday. From left: Conor Hennigan, Garret Power, Laura Tangney, Marcus Treacy, Pat O’Leary, Josephine O’Driscoll (Fáilte Ireland), Niamh O’Shea (Fáilte Ireland), Paul Sherry, members of the Killarney DEDP Implementa tion Group, absent from photo is Angela McAllen, Eamon Meskall and Mike Buckley. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan

Brehon staff help combat food poverty

Santa paid a flying visit to switch on the lights of The Brehon for Christmas yesterday (Thursday).

The annual event signals the start of Christmas festivities for many families in Killarney.

Guests were treated to mulled wine, hot chocolate, Christmas carols and a visit from the big man himself, Santa!

Each year The Brehon partner with a charity to support those in need during the festive season. The chosen charity partner for this year’s event is Foodshare Kerry.

Yesterday's event was the first one since 2019.

The not-for-profit organisation set up to help local charity groups combat food poverty.

Food Share rescue quality surplus food and make it available to organisations who know how best to redistribute it to those in need.

The Brehon are asking for you to donate food boxes where possible, of non-per ishable goods such as, canned foods,

peanut butter, jelly, canned or dry soups, tea bags, coffee, baby formula, bagged pastas and rice, cereal bars and granola bars. Food boxes can be donated to The Brehon for the next two weeks.

“The winter time can be challenging for

many families and we’re hoping this event will raise awareness and support those less fortunate than us this Christmas,” said Sinead McCarthy, General Manager. “We look forward to welcoming the local community and their families to our much

anticipated event, in person, for the first time since 2019,” she added.

If you'd like to help support this event, or find out more information on how you can donate please email info@thebrehon. com.

CARING: Staff from The Brehon Hotel are partnering with Foodshare Kerry to help families with food poverty.

Killarney Ploughing to host county’s biggest match

The delayed County Ploughing Match will go ahead in Fossa on Sunday.

Killarney Ploughing Association’s event was originally supposed to take place on November 13 but was postponed due to bad weather at that time.

The rescheduled match is set for 11am on Sunday morning at Coffey’s Farm in Fossa.

It is the first time that the Killarney Ploughing Association will host a County Ploughing Match – considered the big gest ploughing event in the county.

Qualifiers from Sunday’s event will go forward to represent Kerry at the All-Ire land Ploughing Championships in Rath eniska, County Laois in September next year.

“We have a strong entry,” Killarney chairman Tony Wharton told the Killar ney Advertiser.

“We are expecting 10 or 12 tractors, three horsemen, one each from Sligo, Cork and Kerry and an iron horse, which is a walk-behind plough with a small en gine.”

Further details are available from Tony on 087 206 9161.

PLOUGHING: Shane Godley represented Kerry at the National Ploughing Cham pionships in Laois in September.

SCHOLARSHIP: Pictured with his parents Catherine and Eamon Mulvihill at the recent Mary Immaculate College Awards Ceremony was Gearoid Mulvihill from Killarney, who received an Undergraduate Entrance Scholarship to the Bachelor of Arts programme at MIC. The scholarship, valued at €2,000, was awarded on the basis of high-level CAO points obtained in the Leaving Certif icate Examination. The annual MIC Awards Ceremony, held in the Lime Tree Theatre, saw 135 students, graduates and alumni from MIC being recognised for their academic and other notable achievements with almost €500,000 presented on the night in scholarships and bursaries.

Photo: Don Moloney

FRIDAY

DECEMBER 2nd

CAFE DU PARC

11AM - 9PM

Funky Brunch. Listen to soulful tunes by our resident DJ while enjoying an extensive brunch menu at Café du Parc 9PM - 12:30AM

Café du Parc at Dark. Enjoy moreish dishes with friends and enjoy seasonal cocktails in an intimate and funky setting

O'DONOGHUE

PUBLIC

HOUSE

7.45PM - 2AM

Rocking Jimmy & Tracey Live. O’Donoghue Public House is a place to enjoy a creamy pint while taking in the local tunes

SCRUFFY'S

7:30PM - 2AM

Late-night venue comes alive with a party atmosphere, welcoming live music with some of the best DJs and musicians

ANAM CULTURAL CENTRE

5PM - 9PM

To celebrate Christmas in Killarney, Santa & Mrs Clause are welcoming the children of Killarney to their lovely grotto at the Anam Cultural Centre. Tickets €5

GLENEAGLE INEC

7.30PM - 10:30PM

Tommy Tiernan bings laughs to the INEC with his new show "Tomfoolery". No holds barred from this world renowned stand-up. Tickets €35

SCOTTS BAR

9PM

Join us and enjoy the festive spirit with live music in the Courtyard from 9pm with Alan Flynn and in the main bar from 10pm with Ivan Ryan

SATURDAY

DECEMBER 3rd

CAFE DU PARC

11AM - 9PM

Funky Brunch. Listen to soulful tunes

by our resident DJ while enjoying an extensive brunch menu at Café du Parc

9PM - 12:30AM

Café du Parc at Dark. Enjoy moreish dishes with friends and enjoy seasonal cocktails in an intimate and funky setting

O'DONOGHUE PUBLIC HOUSE

7:30PM - 2AM

Rocking Jimmy & Tracey Live. O’Donoghue Public House is a place to enjoy a creamy pint while taking in the local tunes

ANAM CULTURAL CENTRE

12.30PM - 6PM

To celebrate Christmas in Killarney, Santa & Mrs Clause are welcoming the children of Killarney to their lovely grotto at the Anam Cultural Centre. Tickets €5

PLAZA'S PIANO BAR

9PM - 11PM

Our bar brings class with it’s beautiful interiors, and views of Killarney Park, enjoy melodies from our Resident Piano Bar

SCRUFFY'S

7:30PM - 2AM

Late-night venue comes alive with a party atmosphere, welcoming live music with some of the best DJs and musicians

GLENEAGLE INEC

7.30PM - 11:30PM

Gavin James has just announced his Irish headline tour to coincide with his upcoming third album. Tickets €35.65

MAGIC PARADE

6PM - 7PM

Experience the magic of Christmas in Killarney with a series of festive parades every Saturday until Christmas.

SUNDAY DECEMBER 4th

CAFE DU PARC

11AM - 9PM

Funky Brunch. Listen to soulful tunes by our resident DJ while enjoying an extensive brunch menu at Café du Parc 9PM - 12:30AM

Café du Parc at Dark. Enjoy moreish

dishes with friends and enjoy seasonal cocktails in an intimate and funky setting

GLENEAGLE INEC

8PM - 11:30PM

The Tumbling Paddies are a 6 piece band from Co. Fermanagh. Catchy originals and distinctive takes on classics that any music lover would enjoy. Tickets €20

ANAM CULTURAL CENTRE

12.30PM - 6PM

To celebrate Christmas in Killarney, Santa & Mrs Clause are welcoming the children of Killarney to their lovely grotto at the Anam Cultural Centre. Tickets €5

O'DONOGHUE

PUBLIC HOUSE

1PM - 3PM

O’Donoghue Public House is a place to experience local tunes. Bring your own instrument and join the Craic agus Ceol 9PM - 11PM

Rocking Jimmy & Tracey Live. O’Donoghue Public House is a place to enjoy a creamy pint while taking in the local tunes

SCRUFFY'S

3PM - 11PM

Late-night venue comes alive with a party atmosphere, welcoming live music with some of the best DJs and musicians

MONDAY

DECEMBER 5 th

O'DONOGHUE

PUBLIC HOUSE

9:30PM - 11:30PM

Rocking Jimmy & Tracey Live. O’Donoghue Public House is a place to enjoy a creamy pint while taking in the local tunes

SCRUFFY'S

9:30PM - 11:30PM

Late-night venue comes alive with a party atmosphere, welcoming live music with some of the best DJs and musicians

TUESDAY DECEMBER 6 th

O'DONOGHUE

PUBLIC HOUSE

9:30PM - 11:30PM

Rocking Jimmy & Tracey Live. O’Donoghue Public House is a place to enjoy a creamy pint while taking in the local tunes

SCRUFFY'S

9:30PM - 11:30PM

Late-night venue comes alive with a party atmosphere, welcoming live music with some of the best DJs and musicians

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 7th

O'DONOGHUE

PUBLIC HOUSE

9:30PM - 11:30PM

Rocking Jimmy & Tracey Live. O’Donoghue Public House is a place to enjoy a creamy pint while taking in the local tunes

SCRUFFY'S

7:30PM - 9:30PM

Late-night venue comes alive with a party atmosphere, welcoming live music with some of the best DJs and musicians

THURSDAY DECEMBER 8th

O'DONOGHUE

PUBLIC HOUSE

9:30PM - 11:30PM

Rocking Jimmy & Tracey Live. O’Donoghue Public House is a place to enjoy a creamy pint while taking in the local tunes

ANAM CULTURAL CENTRE

5PM - 9PM

To celebrate Christmas in Killarney, Santa & Mrs Clause are welcoming the children of Killarney to their lovely grotto at the Anam Cultural Centre. Tickets €5

SCRUFFY'S

9:30PM - 11:30PM

Late-night venue comes alive with a party atmosphere, welcoming live music with some of the best DJs and musicians

Sleigh Ride colouring competition winners announced

Lots of entries were received in the Killarney Sleigh Rides col ouring competition and this week the winners have been an nounced.

Oran Bartlett's colourful creation took 1st place winning a sleigh ride in the park, Chloe O'Connor received 2nd place winning a town sleigh ride, while Ben McMahon's arty work came 3rd place and he won a €35 voucher.

The Killarney Sleigh Rides is the perfect Christmas adventure for families big and small this festive season. Choose from a town sleigh ride through the twinkling lights of Killarney Town or a park sleigh ride through the winter wonderland of

the Killarney National Park. "The Sleigh Rides is a magical experi ence for children, so this year we really wanted to do something different to get them involved. The colouring com petition has had a fantastic response and we hope it's something that we can grow on for next year," Laura Tangney, Killarney Sleigh Rides, told the Killarney Advertiser.

The Killarney Sleigh Rides take place from December 2 to January 2, (var

ious dates and times) and all tickets and gift vouchers can be purchased on line at www.killarneysleighrides.com. Pre-booking is essential. "On behalf of all our Sleigh Rides crew,

we would like to extend a huge congrat ulations to our winners and we are look ing forward to welcoming you all this Christmas,” added Michael Tangney of Killarney Sleigh Rides.

Ben McMahon came 3rd place in the Killarney Sleigh Rides Colouring Competition.

Chloe O'Connor received 2nd place in the Killarney Sleigh Rides Colouring Com petition. Oran Bartlett won 1st place in the Killarney Sleigh Rides Colouring Competition.

New car brand has Killarney connection

A new car brand is set to go on sale in Ireland next year and there is a Killarney connection to the launch.

The Ineos Grenadier made its Irish debut at the National Ploughing Championships 2022 in Ratheniska, County Laois in Sep tember ahead of going on sale in January. Inspired by the long-serving Land Rover Defender, the Ineos Grenadier is a mod ern take on the old workhorse.

A dedicated sales unit will be set up at Carton House in Kildare and the off-road er will be available as a two-seat com

mercial, five-seat commercial or five-seat passenger car.

A choice of two BMW six-cylinder en gines, one petrol, one diesel will power the Grenadier.

The promotional videos, which will fea ture as part of Ineos’ online marketing campaign were all produced by Adrian McCarthy of Grandview Media on Pawn Office Lane.

McCarthy was working for a company called Orangeworks which has been appointed the Irish distributor for the brand.

NEW CAR BRAND: The Ineos Grenadier made its Irish debut at the National Ploughing Championships in September.

Photo: Sean Moriarty

221 Dacia Jogger Comfort TCE 110 7 Seats Silver 4km €26,490 211 Audi Q5 35 TDI SE Auto Blue 32km €57,900 211 Captur S-Edition dci 95 Desert Gold/Black 37km €27,900 192 Stepway 1.0 TCE 90 Petrol Slate Grey 36km €13,900 191 Captur GT-Line dci 90 Desert Orange/Black 40km €19,900

191 Duster 1.5 dci Comfort Mocha Brown 83km €18,750

191 Stepway Signature TCE 90 Petrol Cosmos Blue 48km €14,900

181 Kadjar 1.5 dci Dynamique S Nav White 63km €22,490

181 Stepway 1.5 dci Signature White 68km €12,900

181 Duster 1.5 dci Prestige Slate Grey 92Km €15,490

172 Stepway 1.0 TCE 90 Signature Slate Grey 63km €12,900

171 Ford Kuga 1.5 TDCI Titanium Blue 171km €18,950

162 Peugeot 2008 Active 1.6 HDI Black 111km €12,900

161 Transit Tourneo Connect 88km Black Wheelchair ramp €19,900

131 Audi Q3 2.0 TDI 140 SE Silver 163Km €16,900

COMMERCIALS

191 Master LM35 145 Business Van LWB White 107Km €19,500 + Vat

191 Master LM35 130 Business + Van LWB White 165Km €17,500 + Vat

182 Master LM35 170 Business Van LWB White 88Km €18,000 + Vat

182 Master LM35 135 Business +Van LWB White 94Km €18,000 +Vat 161 Master LM35 Business Van White 206km €11,300 +Vat 151 Transit 350 LWB Trend 125BHP FWD White 117Km €13,500 + Vat 04 LandCruiser Auto 3.0 D4D 5 Seat Commercial Silver 238km €9,950

The family of a Fossa woman who won a classic car in a raffle said the win was “totally unex pected".

| By Sean Moriarty

Killarney Valley Classic and Vintage Club drew the winning tickets for its annual raffle on Thursday evening (November 24) at Kelliher’s Garage in Tralee.

The top prize was a 40-year-old Toyota Starlet that was lovingly restored by the members of club earlier this year.

Members sold tickets over the past six months to support four local charities which included the Irish Kidney Asso ciation Kerry Branch, Killarney Valley Athletic Club, Recovery Haven and Cuan Mhuire.

The winning ticket was drawn by Ra dio Kerry DJ Brendan Fuller and Toyota brand ambassador Jordan Lee.

Mary Terry from Fossa was the lucky win ner of the car but she was not present at the draw.

However, members of the club contact ed her family and her daughter Meabh, son-in-law Alan and her two grandsons Finian and Keelan made their way from Fossa to Tralee just in time for the tail end of the celebrations.

“This is a big surprise, it is totally un expected,” said her daughter Meabh Swarbuck.

“We gave mam a ring on the way over, she is unsure what to do with the car. She is 77 and still driving.”

Her two sons are members of Killarney Valley Athletic Club, one of the benefi ciaries of the raffle and the winning ticket was sold by athletic club members Bree da Stack who has sold the winning ticket on three of the last four times the vintage club has run a fundraising raffle.

Killarney Valley Classic and Vintage Club chairman, James Looney, thanked every one who has supported this and other

restoration raffles over the years. “This is the fourth time that the top prize has not left the county,” he told the large crowd gathered in Kelliher’s Toyota showroom in Tralee.

Entertainment was provide by Killarney School Of Music and refreshments from Kathleen, Mags and Sylvia of Ross Cafe Killarney.

“Huge thanks go to Brendan Fuller as our Master of Ceremony and we were also honoured to have Paralympian Jordan Lee help us draw out the winning tickets on the night,” said club secretary Rich O’Donoghue.

“A huge thank you again to our many

sponsors and supporters who made the restoration possible.”

The other lucky winners on the night were:

• 2nd prize €1,000 cash - Lauren McGil loway

• 3rd prize €500 voucher - O'Callaghan Coaches, Ken Manley

• 4th prize €250 voucher - Castleisland Tyre Centre, Brendan O’Reilly

• 5th prize €150 voucher - Garret's Res taurant Killarney, Mary O'Shea

• 6th prize 30 bags of turf - Tommy Drumm

CLUB: Killarney Valley Classic and Vintage Club members and supporters at Kel lihers Garage in Tralee. Photo: Sean Moriarty

WINNERS: Alan and Meabh Swarbuck accept the Toyota Starlet on behalf of Meabh's mother Mary Terry. Photo: Sean Moriarty

FINANCESECTION

FINANCIAL ADVISOR DIRECTORY FOR KILLARNEY

McGuire Liston Lewis Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry liam@mcguireliston.ie 064 6632255

Dermot Cronin

Old Market Ln, Killarney, Co. Kerry kerrymortgagecentre@eircom.net. 064 662 2775

CALL US: 064 6632215 OR

EMAIL: SALES@KILLARNEYADVERTISER.IE

2023 Market Predictions

For me, investing is just a potent mix of optimism and paranoia - being optimistic about what the future holds but constantly paranoid about the landmines that you will undoubtedly trigger along the way.

Finding a balance between the two is key, but I have to admit, going into 2023, par anoia appears to have the upper hand.

EXPECTATION VS REALITY

Whether you are waiting on test results, or tentatively hovering over the phone for that all important call back from your potential new employer, it's the differ ence between expectation and reality that dictates the severity of your reac tion.

Regardless of how bad the reality turns out to be, if your initial expectations were set apocalyptically low, your reaction will probably be positive and vice versa. Financial markets work the same way. As I have said before, investing is nev er about things being objectively good or bad. The narrative is always based around better or worse. If the outlook for markets is exceptionally high and the per formance falls even slightly below these expectations, prices will fall as a result. The fact that performance and growth is

still strong in absolute terms is irrelevant if expectation were not met. With this in mind, in order to understand how mar kets will react in 2023, we must first an alyse the market's expectations.

THE YEAR AHEAD

On the equity side, 12-month forward earnings projections for the S&P 500 are set at 5%. In other words, analysts pre dict American companies will grow their profits by 5% next year.

While this represents a significant slow down in growth relative to what we have experienced since the pandemic pullback in early 2020, I view this as optimistic, given the considerable change in mone tary and fiscal policy in 2022.

Q3 2022 earnings season looks likely to finish at 2% year-over-year growth, the weakest since the height of the pandem ic. Ex-energy, performance becomes weaker still.

Looking ahead to Q4 2022, analysts are now predicting the first negative quarter

since 2020, with profit growth falling to -2%. These Q4 earnings predications from the same analysts were as high as +9% as recently as June.

While expectations for ‘23 are still at plus 5% earnings growth, I wouldn’t be sur prised to see 2023 earnings forecasts suffer the same faith as the Q4 2022 forecast.

In short, markets are a bit like the Irish weather, never believe the forecast.

As leading indicators continue to point towards a slowdown in economic activi ty, a base case of positive 2023 earnings growth becomes difficult to justify. In my view, this will result in some negative

earnings surprises in the second half of 2023.

In Fixed Income markets, the Fed has re iterated its plan to hold rates higher for longer, and this expectation is reflected in markets. According to the market-im plied Fed Funds Rate, investors are now expecting US short term interest rates to peak at 4.9% in six months and remain well above 4% into 2024.

In my view, the probability of the Fed maintaining a long pause as we enter more economically uncertain times is not as high as the market is predicting. I be lieve a pivot is likely before 2024 as earn ings and labour markets weaken.

SUMMARY

While the lows for multiples may already be in, a mild earnings recession in the second half of 2023 may result in a slow grind lower for the stock market.

This pullback in earnings and labour will prompt a pivot from the Fed, forcing them to cut rates in an attempt to avoid the re-emergence of the disinflationary forces that provoked a decade of QE through the 2010s.

While it is impossible to know the exog enous shocks that lie ahead, buying up short-term Treasuries and maintaining a tilt toward value-based equity will pro tect if the current economic slowdown persists.

For more tips on how to beat the market in 2023, simply scan the QR code above.

How to prevent oil escaping

Plastic oil tanks should be regularly checked and replaced immediately when any defects are identified.

This is especially important after periods of extreme hot or cold weather as tanks that are outside and exposed to the ele ments may have been damaged.

Regardless of the oil tank’s age, you should check your tank at least twice a year for signs of cracking and/or failure. This damage is often a result of weather ing or poor installation.

If an oil tank is installed without full hori zontal support, it can cause the tank to

become warped over time and eventual ly lead to cracks and leakage. If in doubt refer to the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

In the event that defects are discovered, the tank should be immediately replaced to prevent any further oil from escaping.

If an escape of oil occurs it may cause damage to the environment, which can result in your property being uninhab itable, and you may require temporary accommodation.

An oil tank should be refilled before it runs completely empty. This is because

they accumulate grit over time. Refilling the tank early causes the grit to become diluted, meaning that it won’t create low grade fuel which will cause damage to your home’s supply piping.

Oil levels can be monitored easily by simply using a long stick.

More advanced methods of calculating how much oil is left in a fuel tank such as a Watchman System will not only tell you how much oil remains in the tank itself, but will signal you with an alarm when it is time for you to refill it.

When purchasing oil, always be sure to

do so from a reputable and trustworthy source as this will ensure that you are getting quality fuel. Fuel purchased from unlicensed sources may be of very poor quality, and not necessarily be what it is labelled as, so could potentially do more harm than good to your piping and fuel supply system.

John Healy of Healy Insurances.

Michael O’Connor CFA is an investment consultant with a decade of experience within the financial industry.

Three bedroom semi detached property superbly located within minutes of Killarney town and on the doorstep of Killarney National Park.

Positioned overlooking a green area to the front and boosts a private east facing rear garden which is not overlooked.

The property has been well maintained by its current owners and would be an ideal starter home / retiree home / downsizer.

Superbly located semi detached bungalow within walking distance of Killarney town.

Ideally positioned to the rear of the much sought after Millwood development with southerly views of Mangerton mountain & St Marys Cathedral. Enclosed private rear garden.

Quiet residential area convenient to the town, National Park and all amenities.

Residential Zoned Land Tax

The Residential Zoned Land Tax (RZLT) is a new tax aimed at in creasing housing supply by acti vating zoned, serviced residential development lands (including mixed-use lands) for housing.

It was introduced by Government in the Finance Act 2021. The process to identify land to which the tax applies is underway and the tax will be payable from 2024.

The annual tax will apply at a rate of three percent of the land’s market val ue and will operate on a self-assess ment basis.

WHO PAYS

Those who own lands, identified in the local authorities’ Residential Zoned

Land Tax Maps, which are: zoned for residential or mixed-use (including residential) purposes in a Local Authority Development Plan, and serviced sufficiently or capable of being serviced sufficiently to support residential development, and are not excluded from the tax, as set out within the legislation.

Homeowners will not have to pay the Residential Zoned Land Tax if they own a dwelling which appears on the Local Authorities’ Residential Zoned Land Tax Maps, but the property is subject to the Local Property Tax (LPT).

WHEN TO REGISTER

Each Local Authority will publish a Final Residential Zoned Land Tax Map by De cember 1, 2023 indicating what lands

are subject to the Residential Zoned Land Tax. A draft map is currently avail able to view from Kerry County Council. The tax will first fall due on February 1, 2024, with a filing and payment date of May 23, 2024.

WHAT NOW

A draft Residential Zoned Land Tax Map showing lands that will be subject to the Residential Zoned Land Tax is avail able from Kerry County Council. Submissions are invited by January 1, 2023 to make a suggested correction to the draft map, request a change of zon ing or identify other land that should be subject to the tax.

If you disagree with the Local Authority decision with regard to your land, you may appeal to An Bord Pleanála.

REA Coyne & Culloty

2 Main St, Killarney

E: info@rea.ie T: 064 663 1274

Ted Healy

11 New St, Killarney

E: killarney@dng.ie

T:064 639000

Billy Hennigan Auctioneers

66 New St, Monearmore, Killarney, E: info@henniganauctioneers.com T: (064) 663 4582

Property Partners Gallivan

Killarney Business Centre, High St., Killarney, Co Kerry

E: killarney@propertypartners.ie T: 064 6634177

TO LET: Rooms to rent in Tralee town. Con tact 087-2944505.

TO LET: 4 bedroom house in Coolick, Kil cummin, Killarney. 1 Bedroom apartment in Glenflesk area. Phone 086-8136888.

TO LET: Storage unit to rent in the Killar ney area. Please contact Sheila on 0872944505 for further details.

TO LET: 1 bedroom apartment, suitable for

CLASSIFIEDS

FOR SALE

FOR SALE: 2012 Caddy van (red), in mint condition both inside and out. Fully serviced, 79,000mls. Many extras, taxed and NCT for one year. Never been on a building site. Call 087-2725471.

FOR SALE: Mobile home, ex works, in Killar ney area. Viewing by appointment only. Tel: 086-3630266.

AVAILABLE

AVAILABLE: Music lessons- piano, violin, fiddle, guitar, banjo. Garda vetted. ONLINE OPTION ALSO AVAILABLE. Tel John: 0876801392 or Maggie: 087-6961681.

AVAILABLE: Top Quality Cleaner for both commercial and domestic premises. All jobs considered, all Kerry areas covered and refer ences on request. Call 085-2051008.

AVAILABLE: Worker with safe pass, manu al handling, groundworks experience in the Killarney area. Available one/two days or full week, whatever suits. Day rate. Call or text Sean on 089-4444841.

AVAILABLE: Removal service – house, of fice… with local and nationwide deliveries.

Sherry Fitzgerald Coughlan

95 New St, Killarney E: info@sfmc.ie T: 064 663 1892

Its4rent.ie

Property Letting & Management Agent, Killarney Business Centre, Upper High St, Killarney T: 064 6634177 • E: info@its4rent.ie

David O’ Driscoll

Muckross Road, Killarney E: info@dodriscoll.com T: 087 795 8386

Maine Valley Property

Old Chapel Lane, Milltown, Kerry

E: info@mainevalleyproperties.com

T: 066 9765577 or 087 6738210

All Ireland Properties

Main Street, Rathmore, Kerry E: allirelandproperties@gmail.com T: 087 243 8182

professional person, 5 minute drive from Killarney town. Private parking. Call 0877924834.

TO LET: 5 bedroom house on Tralee Road, 5 minute drive from Killarney. Unfurnished. Call 087-7997564.

WANTED: Houses and apartments to rent in the Killarney area. Contact 0868136888

Did they leave it too late?

Anytime, anywhere, 7 days a week. Also, all kinds of clear-outs etc. Call 087-2600407.

AVAILABLE: Cleaning Services: Move in/ move out cleaning, General housekeeping, One time deep clean, Seasonal cleaning, Small and medium office cleaning with own cleaning supplies. Call me for more info call 086-3306816.

ANIMALS

ANIMALS: HUG: Homes for Unwanted Grey hounds. For further details please contact us on 087 9822695 or email homesforunwant edgreyhounds@eircom.net.

ANIMALS: KLAWS (Kenmare and Locality Animal Welfare Society) We have a number of adult cats (all colours) awaiting homes. 0879729240 or 087-9704480.

MOTORING

Pat Collins Car Sales: 171 Renault Captur, 2012 Renault Clio, 2012 Fiat Punto 1.3 Diesel, 2011 Nissan Pixo 1.0 5 door, 2010 Citroen C3 diesel, 2009 Kia Rio 1.4, 2009 Hyundai i10, 2005 Nissan Micra and 2004 Mazda 3 Auto matic. Call 087 2630218.

Transition Year student Luke Courtney from St Brendan's Col lege received his Junior Cert results last Wednesday. And al though he was happy with them overall, he explains why he felt getting them at the end of November was very disheartening.

Back in the months of March, April and May, the lead up to the Jr Cert was nerve-wracking, stressful and tense. The junk-load of study for many differ ent subjects only added to the pressure as the days went by; the countdown to the first couple of tests disintegrating slimmer and slimmer.

It was a colossal deal. Teachers elabo rating on the importance of the tests only added to our impending anxiety, our parents only piling on the inevitable gravity that the whole Jr Cert week was going to infuse in us.

However, as the months passed after we got through the week-long ordeal of tests, clicking clocks and check backs, the nerve-inducing doom we once had, in seeing our results, slowly faded, espe cially in my eyes.

An entire five months - nearly half a year - had passed since we did our tests. Throughout the summer there were many suspicions, predictions and estimates on when our results would be revealed; all of them different. Most said that it would be in September, this wasn’t that long away, so of course I still had that stressful fear that I had once I had finished the tests. But two and a half months of school went by. I had gotten fully used to Tran sition Year so Third Year was merely now a thing of the past. Since we hadn’t seen how we got on in the exams, the Jr Cert had no influence on our subject choice that we made at the start of the year.

I believe that the exams in general be came less important. Over time the thought of the Jr Cert slowly evaporated away until even some of my year-mates forgot about it. The uneasy, creeping

Luke Courtney from St Brendan's College gives readers his perspective on the Junior Cert results delay.

suspense did return in the chapel of St Brendan’s College the day of our results last Wednesday, but certainly not to the extent perhaps if we got them in Sep tember. Maybe that is a blessing in dis guise, but for me, I am not sure.

This isn’t an outcry to the establishment, a sparking revolution, but just my per spective on why I believe they left it too late.

The biggest factor I believe is that the satisfaction and joy was no longer at the level it would be if they were released in September. The Jr Cert was now just an old memory, the stakes and importance had slowly faded until it didn’t matter.

OPINION:

Photo: Michelle Crean

SPECIAL VISIT: Kerry footballer Shane Ryan with the Sam McGuire Cup pictured in Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra, Rathmore during a visit on Mon day afternoon with principal Denis Kerins and staff and students.

Kerry Parents & Friends Association

Advertisement

•

Board members

KPFA

Kerry Parents & Friends Association (KPFA) wishes to appoint new Directors and Committee Members to ensure we have the capacity and skills to oversee the organisation’s work The roles are unpaid voluntary positions. Reasonable, agreed expenses may be claimed. Directors are expected to attend eight board meetings per year, but also to participate in the life of the organisation between board meetings, advising the executive team and acting in an ambassadorial role for KPFA.

Board meetings are currently held Mondays, monthly. Positions are advertised for a period of 3 years (term may be renewed).

Kerry Parents & Friends Association (KPFA) was founded in 1973 and provides community based services for adults with intellectual disability and autism in the county. In partnership with stakeholders and with our funders, we strive to develop services which are guided by best practice and the belief that people with intellectual disability are full and equal members of society.

• About the roles

1. We wish to recruit a number of Directors, and expect that candidates will bring a range of skills and experience to KPFA.

2. We are also seeking to recruit a number of Committee Members with various skills and experience to KPFA.

• Expertise & knowledge

• Finance / Business Expertise

• Charity Sector / Charity Law and Regulation / Governance / Compliance and Housing

• Skills

• Ability to understand and interrogate financial reports

• Strategic planning skills

• Risk management skills

• Management / project management

• Ability to operate as part of a team

•

How to apply

Please submit a CV and a cover letter by Friday, December 16th 2022, stating why you wish to be considered for either of the two roles, to the Company Secretary by email to Josephine.spring@kpfa.ie

Prospective board members’ applications will be presented to the Board in January 2023 and those who best meet our requirements will be invited to speak to some of our existing Directors at a later date tbc.

SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL

Beauty - By Jill O'Donoghue

Jill is available for advice and beauty consultations, at Killarney Toning & Beauty Studio. Call 064 6632966

Taking care of

skin at home

In Part 2 of taking care of your skin at home it's important to do the fol lowing steps after cleansing, toning and exfoliating your face, neck and décolleté.

Serums, eye creams and moisturisers: Moisturising provides a protective layer to the skin that locks in moisture and keeps skin hydrated. This hydration is what gives your skin a smooth and lumi nous appearance. This is the step in your skincare routine you don't want to skip. We always apply the serum closest to the skin as it's water based and needs to be absorbed on the deepest layer of the skin; the basal layer which is the active layer. It's where the collagen and elastin start to grow and move up towards the surface of the skin. The more hyaluronic acid, peptides, ribose, and active ingre dients in your serums the better. We need to keep our fibroblasts, melano cytes healthy as they are the source of plump, juicy skin.

An eye cream to me is the most impor tant cream as the eye area is a place that doesn't have any sebaceous glands (oil gland). These glands help remove old skin cells, keep the skin lubricated and prevent tissues drying out. Therefore,

for me, I always use an eyelid lifting se rum, eyecream in the night time and eye roll-on gel in the morning. Our eyes can make us look older then we are so it's important to look after them. It's very important not to go too close to the eye when applying creams as the skin is very thin. A little bit often makes a big differ ence.

When applying your serum and cream rub upwards and outwards; be careful not to tug the delicate skin around the eyes.

Apply SPF all year round, it's the most important step in preventing skin cancer and keeps your skin healthy as you age.

Protecting your skin from the sun's dam aging UV rays helps maintain a healthy youthful visage. However, it's important to remember the best form of sun block is to keep your face in the shade.

With all skincare routines, it's impor tant to keep it consistant. Do it twice a day every day and follow with monthly facials. Your skin is the largest organ on the body. This means that it's important to take good care of it.

For more information, or to book a skin consultation or facial, call Jill on 064 6632966.

What do we mean by ‘Employability’?

According to experts in the area of career development, the term ‘employability’ refers to a set of achievements that makes graduates more likely to gain employ ment and be successful in their cho sen occupations.

This in turn benefits themselves, the workforce, the community and the econ omy. At this stage in the year Leaving Cert students are well into the process of try ing to decide what step they want to take next. It is a daunting task for many of you because of the variety of choices availa ble and the challenge for young people at 17 or 18 years of age to really know what career they might like. It is important to remember that you aren’t choosing a ca reer for life, you are taking the next step and you will be building on that as your career develops. A big concern for many students and parents is whether they will get a job at the end of their chosen course or pathway. While we have some indica tions of where there will be skills shortag es in the short to medium term, the jobs market is subject to change.

PATHWAY

One thing we can be sure of is that, re gardless of what pathway you take after the Leaving Cert, be that Further Edu cation courses (FET), traineeships, ap prenticeships or university courses, on completion of your training and educa tion you will want to be ‘employable’. In simple terms ‘employability’ depends on your knowledge (what you know) your skills (what you do with what you know) and your attitude (how you approach things). As you research the various op tions open to you after you finish school, remember you are heading into a work ing world that values transferable skills which include specialist knowledge in the

She is also a Career Consultant. For details see www.mycareerplan.ie or follow MyCareerPlan on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

subject, field of study or technical area you have chosen to follow. It also places huge emphasis on having the ability to analyse, evaluate and use information ef fectively to problem-solve and to organ ise and communicate knowledge well. Furthermore, your personal qualities are a core part of your offering to a potential employer – your ability to work on your own initiative, to self-manage, to man age time and meet targets and deadlines. Central to all of this of course is the ability to collaborate, to work and study as part of a team.

If you are struggling to decide between courses or options, focus on finding an area that you really want to find out more about. You will develop a set of transfera ble skills which will give you flexibility and adaptability as you grow and develop in your career. All of the other things you do will add value to your degree/qualifi cation and that is what will ensure your ‘employability’!

Sports Journalist: Adam Moynihan, Sean Moriarty Sports Columnists: Adam Moynihan, Eamonn Fitzgerald, Liam Murphy, Eamonn Keogh Journalist: Sean Moriarty

Contributing Columnists: Jill Duggan, Niamh Dwyer, Natalya Krasnenkova

Photographers: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan, Valerie O’Sullivan, Dylan Clifford, Eamonn Keogh, Don MacMonagle, Sally MacMonagle

Niamh Dwyer is a Guidance Counsel lor in Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra, Rathmore, and Chairperson of the Kerry Branch of Guidance Counsel lors.

In loving memory of Nellie Myers

Barleymount East, Killarney 18th May1937 - 26th November 2021.

As we lovingly remember Nellie on her first anniversary, we her family wish to express our sincere thanks and gratitude to all those who extended their suppport, kindness and sympathy on our great loss this past year.

Special thanks to Dr. Donal Coffey and his team at Ross Medical Centre, to the doctors and nurses at CUH and UKH, to Killarney Community Hospital, to the Dialysis Units, to the home help, to the Pallative Care units and to Kennelly’s Pharmacy.

We want to thank family, neighbours and friends who made phone calls, sent letters, mass cards, flowers, perpetual enrolments and left large numbers of condolences on R.I.P.

We extend our sincere gratitude to all those who lined the roads enroute to the church and afterwards to the graveyard in Aghadoe. To the guards of honour from Fossa GAA and Fossa Rowing Club.

Finally, we thank Mike and Mary O’Shea of O’Shea’s Funeral Directors for their kindness and professionalism, and to the grave diggers. Thank you to Fr. Niall Geaney, parish priest, Fossa and Canon Tom Looney for the beautiful requiem mass and the musicians Paud and Mary for the touching music.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere gratitude and appreciation to all. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

8TH ANNIVERSARY

HEALY-RAE

27TH ANNIVERSARY CRONIN

In loving memory of Daniel Cronin

Late of Bendameer, Old Deerpark, Killarney

Who died on 4th December, 1995.

He never looked for praises He was never one to boast

He just went quietly working For the ones he loved the most

His dreams were seldom spoken His wants were very few And most of the time his worries Went unspoken too

He was there, a firm foundation

Through all our storms of life

A sturdy hand to hold on to In times of stress and strife

A true friend we could turn to When times were good or bad One of our greatest blessings The man that we called Dad

Dad you are loved and remembered always by your daughters Margaret and Annette, grandson Daniel and son-in-law Owen.

XXXX

Anniversary Mass is on Saturday 3rd December at 6.15pm in St Marys Cathedral. www.killarneyparish.com

3RD ANNIVERSARY

O’ GRADY

5TH ANNIVERSARY CROWLEY

In loving memory of Our dear

Late of Gortdarrig, Headford, Killarney Whose anniversary occurs on 1st December.

In God’s care you rest above In our hearts you rest with love Never more than a thought away Loved and remembered every day.

Sadly missed by your parents Denis & Grace and brother Shane.

Anniversary Mass is on Friday 2nd December at 7.00pm in Shrone Church.

7TH & 2ND

ANNIVERSARIES

FLEMING In loving memory of My dear parents Jim and Mary Fleming, Late of Clydine, Kilcummin, Killarney Whose anniversaries occur on 6th October and 7th December.

At the rising of the sun And as it goes down ‘We remember them’

6TH ANNIVERSARY

FAVIER

In loving memory of Dympna Favier

Late of Glen-Ford, Glenflesk Who passed away on 3rd December 2016.

As I sit in Heaven

As I sit in heaven and watch you everyday I try to let you know with signs I never went away I hear you when you’re laughing and watch you as you sleep I even place my arms around you to calm you as you weep I see you wish the days away begging to have me home

So I try to send you signs so you know you are not alone Don’t feel guilty that you have life That was denied to me Heaven is truly beautiful just you wait and see So live your life, laugh again enjoy yourself, be free

Then I know with every breath you take You’ll be taking one for me.

Always remembered by husband Pat and children Fergal, Enda & Aoife.

Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Agatha’s Church, Glenflesk on Christmas Eve at 6pm.

6TH ANNIVERSARY

FAVIER

In loving memory of Crohane O Grady Whose anniversary occurs on 7th December.

We’ll always remember that smile That caring heart, that warm embrace You always gave us. You being there for us Through good and bad times No matter what

We’ll always remember you Dad Because there’ll never be another one To replace you in our hearts And the love we will always have for you.

Always loved and remembered by your son Dermot and daughter-in-law Brid.

11TH ANNIVERSARY

BROSNAN

In loving memory of Margaret Brosnan

Lovingly remembering Dympna Favier Late of Glen Ford, Glenflesk, Killarney, Who passed away on 3rd December 2016.

Dympna you were someone special Someone set apart Your memory will live forever Engraved within our hearts.

Sadly missed by Peggy, Paudie and all the family.

In loving memory of Jackie Healy-Rae (RIP) Who died on 5th December 2014.

A smile for all and a heart of gold

Never selfish, always kind These are the memories you left behind

Beautiful gifts to last a lifetime It’s impossible to repay Or tell you how much you meant But Christmas seems like the perfect time

To remind you

To have that wonderful time With all your family and friends That are gone to Heaven Before you and since then.

We love and miss you dearly.

Kathleen, Anton & Katie xxx

You will be prayed for in Our Lady of Lourdes Church Kilcummin on Wednesday 7th December at 7.30pm.

Sadly missed by Theresa, Bernie, Brendan and his 6 grandchildren Kelly, Chloe, Emily, Jaida, Calum and Ted.

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN

O most beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, Faithful Vine, Splendour of Heaven, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in this my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother.

O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succour me in this necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your powers.

O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. (3 times) Sweet Mother, I place this cause in your hands. (3 times). Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. Amen. Say for three days and request will be granted . Prayer must be published. E.O.C.

Late of Ross Road, Killarney Who died on 1st December 2011.

God saw you getting tired And a cure was not to be So He put His arms around you And whispered “Come to me”

With tearful eyes we watched you As you slowly slipped away And though we loved you dearly We couldn’t make you stay

Your golden heart stopped beating Your tired eyes put to rest God broke our hearts to prove to us He only takes the best.

Sadly missed by your loving family Sean, Jeannette, Brian & Mary, and grandsons Ross, Harry & Dylan.

Anniversary Mass is on Saturday 3rd December at 6.15pm in St Marys Cathedral.

22ND & 27TH ANNIVERSARY

DOOLAN

In loving memory of Tim & Kathleen Doolan

Late of Knocklebede, Kilcummin, Killarney Who died on 23rd November 2000 and 5th December 1995.

Your presence we miss Your memory we treasure Loving you always Forgetting you never.

Always remembered by your sons Pat and Tim, daughter Nora, daughters-in-law, son-in-law, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

daughter Denise Crowley

16TH ANNIVERSARY & BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

FLYNN

In loving memory of Daithi Patrick Flynn

Late of St. Mary’s Terrace, Killarney Who died on 10th December 2006.

I’ve asked the angels to keep A watchful eye on you on this sad day But the reply I got was simply That they were watching anyway

They had a request from a new angel Who is being fitted with new wings Who like all angels in Heaven Will do such wonderful things

So when you feel your sorrow Is a burden too great to bear Remember beautiful angels And your loved one will be there.

Always loved and missed by your Mom and Dad xx

8TH ANNIVERSARY

HEALY-RAE

7TH ANNIVERSARY GRIFFIN

In loving memory of My darling wife

Kathleen Griffin

Late of 21 Park Drive, Killarney

Who died on 4th December 2015.

Softly the leaves of memory fall Gently I bend to gather them all Unseen, unheard, you are always near So missed, so loved, so very dear I miss you now, my heart is sore

As time goes by I miss you more Your loving smile, your precious face No-one else can fill that space

In secret I weep, in silence I cry As each lonely hour and day passes by There’s only thought that eases my pain And it’s knowing someday I’ll see you again

Beautiful memories treasured forever

Of the love and happiness We shared together Your presence I miss Your memory I treasure.

Loving you always, forgetting you never Your loving husband Tim.

7TH ANNIVERSARY

GRIFFIN

In loving memory of Jackie Healy-Rae, Late of Killgarvan, Co. Kerry Who died on 5th December 2014.

Our hearts are so full of memories With pride we speak your name Though life goes on without you It will never be the same.

Sadly missed by Danny, Eileen, Johnny, Patie, Dan, Maura, Elaine, Theresa, Caroline, Linda and Emma.

Anniversary Masses are being held in Kilcummin on Wednesday 7th December at 7.30pm. Kilgarvan on Sunday 18th December at 10.30am.

14TH ANNIVERSARY

COFFEY

In

Late of 51 Marian Terrace, Killarney

Who died on 30th November 2008.

As each day dawns We think of you

As each night falls We pray for you.

Deep in our hearts you will always stay Loved and remembered every day.

Sadly missed by your loving daughters, Breda, Nono, Mary, Eileen and Josie. sons-in-Law, grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.

In loving memory of

A wonderful mother, grandmother and great-grandmother

Kathleen Griffin

21 Park Drive, Killarney

Who died on 4th December 2015.

Mother

God looked around his garden and saw an empty space

He then looked down upon the earth and saw your tired face

He put his arms around you and raised you up to rest His garden must be beautiful because he only takes the best.

He knew you were in pain and that a cure was not to be So he closed your weary eyelids and whispered “come to me”. With tearful eyes we watched you and saw you slip away And though we loved you dearly we knew you could not stay. It broke our hearts to lose you, But you did not go alone, For part of us went with you On the day God called you home. Always remembered by your loving son Tom and daughter-in-law Sheila. XXX

Grandmother

As we look upon your picture Sweet memories we recall Of a face so full of sunshine And a smile for one and all Sweet Jesus take this message To our dear Nana up above Tell her how we miss her And give her all our love.

Your loving grandchildren Ian and Jess, Mark, Sandra and Tommy, Kevin and Emer.

XXX

Great-grandmother

No matter how life changes No matter what we do A special place within our hearts Is always kept for you.

Your great-grandchildren Evan, Ewan, Hayden, TJ and Millie. XXX

7TH ANNIVERSARY

GRIFFIN

In loving memory of A wonderful mother and grandmother Kathleen Griffin

Late of 21 Park Drive, Killarney Who died on 4th December 2015.

We miss your smile, your joking ways We miss the things, you used to say And when old times we do recall It’s then we miss you most of all.

Loved and missed by Kevin, Brid, Bryan, Kyle and Emma.

7TH & 16TH ANNIVERSARY

FLEMING

In loving memory of Tommy and Annamarie Fleming

Late of Daltons Avenue, Killarney

Tommy who died on 3rd December 2015. and Annamarie who died on18th December 2006. R.I.P.

Happy, smiling and always content Loved and respected wherever they went Always willing helpful and kind What a beautiful memory

They left behind Close to our hearts They will always stay Loved and remembered everyday So treasure them Lord In your garden of rest For the Mam and Dad you gave me Were simply the best.

Always remembered and never forgotten by your loving son Thomas.

Anniversary mass will be held on Tuesday 6th December at 9.30am in the Church of the Resurrection.

2ND ANNIVERSARY

CROWLEY

Late of Old Bridge, Headford

Who passed away on 4th December 2020.

The

Missed so much by all the friends you made during your time working at Penneys, Killarney

WHELAN

In loving memory of Richard Whelan St. Brendan’s Place, Killarney, Who passed away on 3rd December 2021.

As we lovingly remember Richard on his first anniversary, the family wish to thank most sincerely all those who supported us in our sad loss.

Those who sympathised, sent Mass cards, letters, phone calls, texts and online condolences. To those who called to the house and attended the Funeral Mass and burial.

To the staff at the Palliative Care and Dialysis Unit in UHK.

A sincere thank you to Fr. Jim Lenihan for the beautiful and meaningful celebration of Richard’s funeral mass. To Maura Reen and organist for the beautiful music and hymns.

To Liam Sheehan and staff, to Mike and Mary O’Shea for their compassion and professionalism at such a difficult time.

To the Great Southern Hotel for the Guard of Honour. Richard would have been so proud.

As it is not possible to mention everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of Mass will be offered for your intentions.

Anniversary Mass for Richard is on Saturday 3rd November at 6:15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

17TH ANNIVERSARY

Sadly missed by all your family.

NOVENA TO ST. CLAIRE

Ask St. Claire for 3 favours, one business, two impossible and say nine Hail Mary’s for nine days with lighted candle. Pray whether you believe or not. Publish on ninth day. Powerful Novena. May the sacred heart of Jesus be praised, adored, glorified and loved today and every day throughout the whole world forever Amen. Say six times daily for nine days. Your request will be granted no matter how difficult it may seem. Favour publication must be promised. J.O.R.

loving memory of Our dear father Donie Coffey

In loving memory of Our dear friend

Catherine Crowley

O’LEARY Precious memories of Donie O’Leary

of Knockeragh and Plunkett Street, Killarney Whose anniversary occurs on 4th December.

You had a smile for everyone

had a heart of gold

4TH ANNIVERSARY

O’SULLIVAN

In loving memory of Bridie O’Sullivan

Late of Woodlawn Drive, Killarney Who passed away on 3rd December 2018.

Today we light a candle And say a special prayer We take a trip down memory lane And know that you are there

This is your anniversary You wouldn’t want a fuss Just to be remembered And loved by all of us .

Lovingly remembered & sadly missed Your husband Eddie

*

A loved one never leaves you They’re never far away They watch you from a distance And guide you every day They do become your angel And look down from above A loved one never leaves you Because you always have their love

Forever loved and always remembered Noreen, Pat, Patrick, Frances, Deborah Ann, Pat, Edmund & Juliet

*

You gave us all you had to give Gifts both big and small But most of all you gave us love

The greatest gift of all

So may the winds of love blow softly And whisper for you to hear that we still love and miss you As it dawns another year

Always loved & greatly missed by All your grandchildren.

Anniversary mass will be held on Sunday December 4th at 10.30am in St Mary’s Cathedral.

https://www.churchservices.tv/ killarneycathedral

16TH ANNIVERSARY

WRENN

5TH ANNIVERSARY

O’NEILL

5TH ANNIVERSARY

O’NEILL

In loving memory of Michael O’Neill

Barleymount West, Killarney, Co. Kerry Who passed away on 2nd December 2017.

A place in my heart Is yours alone

A piece of love No one can own

Deep in my heart Your memory is kept Of a husband I will never forget.

Love and always remembered from Nora.

Michael’s Anniversary Mass will be on Friday 2nd December 2022 at 7:30pm in Fossa Church.

5TH ANNIVERSARY

O’NEILL

In loving memory of Michael O’Neill

Barleymount West, Killarney, Co. Kerry Who passed away on 2nd December 2017.

Dad, if I could write a story It would be the greatest ever told Of a kind and loving dad Who had a heart of gold.

I could write a million pages But still be unable to say Just how much I love and miss you Each single day.

I will remember all he taught me I’m hurt and won’t be sad Because he will send me down the answers And he will always be my dad.

From Shane and Bridgid.

5TH ANNIVERSARY

O’NEILL

In loving memory of James Wrenn

Late of “Woodlawn House”, Woodlawn Road, Killarney Who died on 4th December 2006.

As each day dawns We think of you As each night falls We pray for you.

Deep in our hearts you will always stay.

Sadly missed and never forgotten by Anne, Cara, Patrick, Wayne, Jamie, Pooja and grandchildren Finn and Lachlan.

MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked You for many favours. This time I ask you this very special one (mention favour). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within Your own Heart where Your Father sees it. Then, in His merciful eyes it will become Your favour not mine. Amen. Say for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. E.O.C.

In loving memory of Michael O’Neill

Barleymount West, Killarney, Co. Kerry Who passed away on 2nd December 2017.

You were always there When we needed you No task too great or small With loving heart and helping hands For us you did it all.

Fondly remembered by your son Micheal, Treasa, Eabha, Kate and Clodagh O’Neill.

MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked You for many favours. This time I ask you this very special one (mention favour). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within Your own Heart where Your Father sees it. Then, in His merciful eyes it will become Your favour not mine. Amen. Say for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. A.L.

In loving memory of Michael O’Neill

Late of Barleymount, Killarney Who passed away on 2nd December 2017.

Remember him with a smile today He wasn’t one for tears Reflect instead on memories Of all the happy years

Recall to mind the way he spoke And all the things he said His strength, his wisdom, the way he was Remember them instead.

Sadly missed and always remembered by his brothers, sisters and their families.

11TH ANNIVERSARY O’GORMAN

In loving memory of Mary O’Gorman

Late of Danesfort, Killarney Who died on 5th December 2011.

Though we need to weep your loss You dwell in that safe place in our hearts Where no storm, or night Or pain can reach you Now that you have left us these 11 years We hope that heaven is filled With everything you deserve and more.

Sadly missed and forever loved by Maureen, Eileen and Mike and grandchildren Adrian, Stephen, John, Marie and Mary.

Anniversary Mass is on Saturday 3rd December at 6:15 in St. Mary’s Cathedral.

24TH ANNIVERSARY

GEANEY

In loving memory of Mary Geaney

Late of Woodlawn, Killarney Who died on 6th December 1998.

You always had a smile to share A laugh, a joke, a time to care A wonderful nature, warm and true These are the memories I have of you.

Fondly remembered by your husband Denis and family. Anniversary Mass will be held on Monday 5th December at 6:15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral.

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. R.F.

5TH ANNIVERSARY WARREN (NEE CROWLEY)

In loving memory of Sheila Warren (nee Crowley)

Late of Annaghmore, Headford, Killarney Who passed away on 10th December 2017.

Each of us in our own way Have special thoughts of you today Your name is often spoken We talk about you still You haven’t been forgotten And by us you never will.

Always loved and remembered by your daughter Theresa and son-in-law David.

Anniversary Mass will be on Friday 9th December at 7:30pm in Barraduff Church.

5TH ANNIVERSARY

WARREN

In loving memory of Sheila Warren

Late of Annaghmore, Headford, Killarney Who died on 10th December 2017.

Our hearts are full of memories With pride we speak your name Though life must go on without you It will never be the same

Those special days will not return When we were all together But the love and memories in our hearts Will stay with us forever.

Never forgotten your son Gerard, daughter-in-law Lylia, and your loving grandchildren Tom, Sarah and Conor.

Anniversary Mass will be on Friday 9th December at 7:30pm in Barraduff Church.

5TH ANNIVERSARY

MURPHY

In loving memory of Bridie Murphy

Late of “The Forge” Kilquane, Headford, Killarney, Who passed away on 1st December 2017.

You had a smile for everyone You had a heart of gold You left the sweetest memories This world could ever hold.

Lovingly remembered by son Owen, Kathleen and family.

MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked You for many favours. This time I ask you this very special one (mention favour). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within Your own Heart where Your Father sees it. Then, in His merciful eyes it will become Your favour not mine. Amen. Say for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. M.O.S.

www.killarneyadvertiser.ie

SPORT

@AdamMoynihan

ADAM MOYNIHAN

E: sport@killarneyadvertiser.ie

SEE OUR COLUMNISTS’ COVERAGE OF THE WEEK IN SPORT EAMONN FITZGERALD & SEAN MORIARTY

FINAL FOUR

- Town rivals Legion and Crokes set for O’Donoghue Cup semi

-

Last year’s beaten finalists Spa to take on Gneeveguilla

O’DONOGHUE CUP SEMI-FINAL

Killarney Legion v Dr Crokes Saturday at 2pm Fitzgerald Stadium

This is what the East Kerry Champion ship is all about. On Saturday afternoon we will see a repeat of the 2019 final as Killarney neighbours Legion and Crokes go head-to-head in the Fitzgerald Sta dium, and just before that, across the Lewis Road, Spa face Gneeveguilla in the other semi-final. Two exciting games are in store.

Defending champions Dr Crokes will be hoping to reach the finale for the fourth year on the bounce. They were victori ous in two of the last three finals – last

year (the delayed 2020 edition) against Spa and in 2018 against Kilcummin. In between came a rare O’Donoghue Cup final defeat, and that came at the hands of Saturday’s opponents, Legion.

It has been a hit and miss year so far for the Crokes, who are in a period of tran sition under new bainisteoir Brian Mc Mahon. Victory over Austin Stacks saw them avoid the relegation playoff in the Club Championship but their Kerry SFC campaign came to a disappointing end when they lost to Dingle by 10 points in the quarter-final.

They arrive in this district semi-final on the back of a comprehensive 2-21 to 0-6 win over an understrength Fossa team.

Tony Brosnan scored 1-9 and Gavin O’Shea added 1-2 in that one-sided affair a fortnight ago.

The Crokes still have to be considered fa vourites for this competition but the ab sence through injury of key players Fionn

Fitzgerald, Gavin White and Micheál Burns is naturally a concern.

As for Legion, they too will be anxious to finish the season on a high. Ned English’s side narrowly missed out on a spot in the Intermediate Club Championship final when a late comeback by An Ghaeltacht scuppered their hopes of bouncing back to senior at the first time of asking.

The Derreen club had a fine six-point win over Kilcummin in the last eight, James O’Donoghue registering 0-9 of their 0-15 total.

It’s not often that supporters get the opportunity to take in two games at two different venues in quick succession but that will be the case tomorrow. Just be

fore the Killarney derby, Killarney’s other club, Spa, play Gneeveguilla in the first semi-final just a short walk away at Dr Crokes’ grounds on Lewis Road. Throwin is at 12.30pm.

Spa are aiming to advance to their sec ond consecutive O’Donoghue Cup final and the senior club will be fancied to get over the line against intermediate oppo sition.

Goals by Niall McCarthy and Evan Cronin made all the difference in Spa’s quar ter-final victory over Listry (2-8 to 0-8). They’re not a million miles away from full strength at this point, although they are sure to get a good challenge from last season’s the All-Ireland Junior Club finalists.

Gneeveguilla are hoping to reach their first O’Donoghue Cup final since 2009. Their last senior East Kerry Champion ship title came in 2003 when they de feated Kilcummin.

RIVALS: Killarney Legion veteran Jonathan Lyne gives chase to Dr Crokes defender Michael Potts. Photo: Don MacMonagle.

| By Adam Moynihan

Follow Adam on Twitter

Wacky stories from the World Cup in Qatar

OPENING GAME SCANDAL

The World Cup in Qatar was always going to have some underlying controversy, interlaced with corruption, human rights violations and more. Even in the opening game, which happened on November 20, there were allegations. According to Amjad Taha, the regional director of the British Middle East Centre for Studies and Research, Qatar had bribed eight Ecua dorian players a sum of €7.4 million in an effort to win the opening game against Ecuador in the tournament. Throughout each World Cup in history no host nation has ever lost the opening game. More suspicions arose as Ecuador were con troversially disallowed a goal in the sixth minute of the game. However, the game ended Qatar 0-2 Ecuador, debunking many of the myths that included bribery. Qatar’s 1-3 loss to Senegal in the second match didn’t help either, as the host na tion became the first team to play in the World Cup, and the first team to leave.

FAKE FANS

In the build up to the cup, videos began to emerge of somewhat ‘superficial’ fans of countries such as Argentina, England and Germany. Most of these fans were of Indian and Bangladeshi origin and a lot of claims have been made of Qatar and FIFA paying these people to support in order to install atmosphere. Both Qatar and FIFA have denied these allegations. According to The Daily Mail, TikTok co median Jon Bernard Kairouz confronted some of these fans, this time branding

Brazilian attire. In one of the interviews, Jon asks ‘Did FIFA pay you to be here?’ The fan replies with ‘yes’. Another Brazil supporter even claims that he is ‘actually a fan of Argentina’.

Moroccan Mishap

Controversy surrounded the game on Sunday between Morocco and Belgium as goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was ini tially named and featured in the coun try’s national anthem. This is before he was quickly subbed off moments before kick-off. It is noted that Bounou felt dizzy and was quickly replaced with substitute

goalkeeper Munir El Kajour. This caused confusion, especially with the commen tating team on the BBC. Renowned commentator Guy Mowbry apparently believed Bounou was still between the sticks, up until the 38th minute.

SAUDI ARABIAN SHOCK

As many know, Saudi Arabia played red hot favourites Argentina on Tuesday, No vember 22 as the opening game of group C. It ended in a shock 2-1 win, after Argen tinian captain Lionel Messi put his team 1-0 ahead before the Arabian’s fired back with two quickfire goals from both Saleh

Al-Shehri and Salem Al-Dawsari. The shock was even more seismic for the fact that Argentina were 36 games unbeaten before the match. Already it has gone down as one of the most historic and shocking upsets in World Cup history, right up there with the likes of Germany 7-1 Brazil, in the Semi-Final of the World Cup 2014.

LAST SECOND SPECTACLE

Group H had Portugal vs Ghana on Thursday last, November 24. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal side had a good dis play against the Ghanaians as goals from Ronaldo, Felix and Leao saw them having a cushioned 3-1 lead, even from push backs from Ghana player Andre Ayew in the 73rd minute. The game was looking comfortable for Fernando Santos’s side until an Osman Bukari header in the 89th minute made the game 3-2. Looking to make a stunning last minute equaliser, it wasn’t until 10 seconds before the fi nal whistle that Ghana would have their best chance of the entire game. An un suspecting Diogo Costa (Portugal goal keeper) was unaware of a preying Inaki Williams. As the goalie dropped the ball, this allowed Williams to steal possession, facing almost an empty net with the ball at his feet. However, the Ghana player slipped, allowing defenders Dias and Periera to rush back and clear the danger. A crazy scramble in the 100th minute of the game, where a mere slip saved Costa and the entire Portugal squad’s blushes.

Luke Courtney is a Transition Year student in St Brendan’s College, Killarney. This week he joined the Killarney Advertiser team on work experience and has been busy reviewing some of the bizzare stories from Qatar so far.

On-field success driving Kerry’s global brand

It was a sad day for the parish when Killarney’s famous Nike Factory Store closed its doors in March of this year. That big, white Swoosh had attracted locals and visitors to the Killarney Out let Centre since both the store and the centre first opened in 1999. Having a brand that large in a town so small was pretty cool. We were all sorry to see it go.

It wasn’t the only sports brand to call the Outlet Centre home, though. As Nike shut up shop, just across the way, on the other side of the escalator, the Kerry GAA Store was gearing up for what would turn out to be their best year ever.

The official retail outlet of Kerry GAA racked up €200,000 in profits in the fi nancial year up to November. Not quite Nike numbers – the US sportswear gi ant made €21 billion globally – but the store’s record revenue certainly came as a welcome bonus for the county board.

Preparing intercounty teams has be come hugely expensive (Kerry spent almost €1.5 million on their footballers and hurlers in 2022) and plans are in place to redevelop the Fitzgerald Stadi um at an estimated cost of €72 million. Every cent counts.

The unprecedented success of the business is also a sure sign that the Ker ry brand, which has been developing in one way or another for over 100 years, has now slipped into overdrive.

I recently called into the Kerry GAA Store to speak to manager Luke Quinn and find out more.

OFFICE

After selling a half-zip tracksuit top to a customer and handing over to his as sistant, Luke invites me into a narrow office down the back. Myself and Luke actually know each other a long time. As kids we were neighbours down in Whitebridge Manor. I recall borrowing his Schmeichel-era Man United keeper jersey once so I could play in goal. It wasn’t the last jersey he gave me (al

though, in fairness, these days I pay).

A popular figure at his club, Dr Crokes, Luke experienced great success as a player and he is currently part of Brian McMahon’s senior management team. After chatting a bit about football, we get down to business.

I get the impression that I’m embarrass ing him somewhat when I ask for the official amount that the store handed over to the county board, but he readily admits that he is delighted with the 12 months he and his team have put down.

“I think with the new jersey being re leased, and with Kerry reaching and winning the All-Ireland final, all those things combined and led to a very prof itable year,” Quinn says. “Any time you bring out a jersey, especially a home jersey, it gains traction - not alone in Kerry but all over the world.”

The popularity of that new O’Neills home jersey is an interesting one be cause it actually received quite a poor reception when it was unveiled in Jan uary. For his part, Quinn attributes that initial reaction to the imagery that ac companied the release. The sublimat ed background graphics on the body of the shirt were exaggerated in the launch photos, which made it look far louder than it actually was in real life. “When people saw it in reality and when the team wore it, sales went through the roof. I remember the first weekend they wore it on TV against Kildare, the jersey gained unbelievable traction. I think people’s minds were changed.

“I know that O’Neills were very confi dent that it was going to sell well and, to be honest, we were as well. It’s like anything when it’s new, it takes a bit of

time to seep in.

“I think the return of white trim was a factor. The bit of white just makes everything pop. It’s subtle enough but it makes a huge difference; it makes the green and gold more prominent.”

Perhaps even more significant than the design of the jersey itself was the talent wearing it. Kerry ended their eight-year drought by defeating Galway in the All-Ireland final in July with Man of the Match and Footballer of the Year David Clifford to the fore. At just 23 years of age, Clifford is now the sport’s standout superstar and Quinn says that he and semi-final hero Seán O’Shea are now driving the Kerry brand on a national and global level.

“Kerry is a worldwide brand at this stage. It’s a known brand and it’s not only Ker ry people who want to buy the shirt, it’s

BESTSELLER: Luke Quinn shows off the 2022 Kerry home jersey at the Kerry GAA Store.

Adam Moynihan caught up with Kerry GAA Store manager Luke Quinn to find out how the Killarney-based business made record profits in 2022

people in the midlands, up the north, all over the world really.

“This Kerry team is relatively young and they’re after building a nice rela tionship with the public. The more you win, the more you’re going to be in the news and the media and the likes of David Clifford and Seánie and these guys, they’re box office now. The boys really do give [the brand] that extra push.

“It’s very hard to quantify but one thing you’d notice is that this year we had parents coming in who might have no interest in the GAA, in par ticular foreign nationals from places like Eastern Europe, and they had kids who were mad to get the jersey. They would actually point to the photos of David and Seánie and say they wanted the jerseys that those guys wear.

“You can’t really put a figure on it but you can see that these players are reaching out to a large audience be cause of who they are. At this stage, if they wore a black plastic bag, the kids would want a black plastic bag.”

The GAA is different to sports like soc cer in that players don’t have squad numbers or their names printed on the backs of their shirts. If the GAA went down that road, Quinn has no doubt about which jersey would be the most popular.

“You’d just be stocking up on Clifford jerseys, wouldn’t you?” he laughs. “I’ve heard squad numbers being mooted but intercounty GAA is so different. The panels change so often, especially the higher numbers. Kerry could have 40 different players training with them throughout the year so it would be hard to nail down numbers.

“We possibly will bring out a number 14 and a number 11 shirt ourselves (Clifford and O’Shea’s usual numbers). Maybe a number 8 too. The more prominent ones. There is a demand for that. But as for names on the back, that might be a bridge too far.”

BOX OFFICE: Star players David Clifford and Seán O'Shea are driving the Kerry brand on a global scale. Photo: Daire Brennan/ Sportsfile.

These players are reaching out to a large audience because of who they are. At this stage, if they wore a black plastic bag, the kids would want a black plastic bag.

LUKE QUINN KERRY GAA STORE MANAGER

Aside from the jerseys, many items from Kerry’s leisure and training wear collections are also big sellers. The store receives four ranges from O’Neills every year, two of which are exclusive to the shop (i.e. the National League range and the Championship range). These collections include the same hoodies, jackets, half-zips and polo shirts the players wear travelling to games, as well as the clothing that team manager Jack O’Connor wears on the sideline.

The training jerseys sported by the players when they warm up before matches are also popular.

STRONG RELATIONSHIP

After a turbulent period in the nine ties when they changed kit supplier three times (adidas to Emerald Active Wear, then to Millfield, and then back to adidas), Kerry have now been with O’Neills for 22 years straight. The re lationship between the two parties is strong. Quinn certainly doesn’t see it ending any time soon.

“O’Neills are a great company to deal with. They have a lot of stuff in the pot – 30 or 31 counties – but they’re good at what they do. They wouldn’t be at the top of the game for this long otherwise. Their production is very streamlined, they have a good market ing team, and a good design team. The reps on the ground are very helpful and I can see them going from strength to strength to be honest with you, and further afield in other sports as well.

“The issue with another company com ing in instead of O’Neills – for example if we took on another smaller producer – I think the bottom line is that if the team gets to an All-Ireland semi-final or final, the demand for jerseys and lei surewear goes through the roof. I don’t think there’s any other company in the country that could accommodate that demand in such a short space of time. Especially with the season being short ened, I just can’t see anyone else being able to take on that production.

“O’Neills have a monstrosity of a fac tory up in Strabane as well as the one in Dublin, which is no small factory ei ther. And even at that, when it comes to the summertime, they would be at capacity. I can’t imagine another com pany taking on a county like Kerry or Dublin or Mayo who are GAA mad and are always at the business end of the season. Other companies will find it hard to dip into the big hitters.”

At a national level, O’Neills jersey sales were actually down 16% in 2022, something the company has attribut ed to the shorter intercounty window. Thankfully for Quinn and for Kerry, the Kerry GAA Store didn’t experience the same drop in sales once the season ended in July.

“I suppose with Kerry getting to the fi nal and winning it, we weren’t affected as much,” he reflects. “There was a nice

little buzz after the final. We brought out some different bits of merchandise on the back of winning as well so that’s always going to help. I also think peo ple are getting ahead of Christmas that bit earlier this year.

“It would be different if Kerry lost ear lier in the year but I can’t say the split season affected us too much.”

SEVEN DAYS A WEEK

Quinn took the reins five years ago and although he describes it as a busy job, it’s one he’s massively enjoying.

“I’m loving it. I took over from Botty (Niall O’Callaghan) and Seán O’Sullivan so I had big boots to fill but the boys were great on the handover. I’ve got some good bosses who help me out big time. The county board leave me to my own devices but they’re always there when I need any help.

“It’s busy and we’re open seven days a week. The only days we’re closed are Christmas Day and New Year’s Day so it’s gung-ho all the time. With new ranges and new jerseys and new fashion trends, you have to keep your finger on the pulse at all times. So it is busy but it’s the way I like to be.”

What does a normal day look like?

“It’s always about planning ahead. To day I’m ordering next year’s Christmas range. I don’t even know how exactly Christmas is going to go this year in terms of sales but O’Neills need to plan so far ahead in their production that I’m already ordering for Christmas next year. You’re always trying to keep ahead of the game.

“There are new training jerseys coming out pre-Christmas. There’s a National League range coming out pre-Christ mas. There’s an away jersey coming in January. You have to get your numbers right, get your system set up to take in all that stock, organise staff, and make sure everything is streamlined.”

That mention of a new Kerry away jer sey will no doubt pique the curiosity of our readers. The outgoing away top, an eye-catching blue and lime green effort, has been in use since 2020. I pressed Luke for details.

“I haven’t even seen samples yet. If you’re talking to O’Neills tell them to send them down as soon as possible! I genuinely don’t know what it will look like. The design team at O’Neills will develop a good few prototypes, they’ll be sent down to ourselves and the county board, and we’ll go through them. O’Neills will give us a good idea of what they feel will work.

“Some of the players will have an input and then a final decision will be made. At the end of January, Kerry will be out against Donegal and hopefully we’ll see the new away jersey then.”

It's hard to imagine Kerry footballers from bygone eras having (or wanting to have) too much say in the design of the kit but, generally speaking, the modern player is more into fashion than his predecessors. In that regard, it makes sense for them to have their say.

“There would definitely be an input,” Quinn reveals. “Some of the players just want to concentrate on the football or the hurling but other guys would be very style conscious in what they want to wear. Colm Whelan, the kit man for the footballers, and Tim Daly with the hurlers have a big interest in what ranges and training jerseys and playing jerseys are coming in. They know the guys [on the panel] who would be into the fashion side of things and we have a couple of WhatsApp groups to get the players’ opinions.

“O’Neills would definitely take it on board,” Quinn says, before jokingly adding, “I suppose if the best football er in the country wants a certain thing then you’re going to have to go with it, aren’t you?!”

FOOTBALL TALK

One thing I’ve noticed from my trips to the Kerry GAA Store is the constant flow of GAA-related chat between the customers and the staff. Admittedly you could probably overhear football talk on any premises in a town like Kil larney, but the store is the perfect set ting for it. And that’s something Quinn and his employees relish. “You have all these business things go

ing on in the background but the main thing in all this is the customer. We can’t lose sight of that. You still want to give the customers coming in the best experience, to chat about Kerry football, and engage with the public. That’s what it’s all about.

“This shop is bucking the trend. We do have an online store but it’s still very much a kind of ‘shop local’ set-up. All profits raised go back to the county board and we have so many repeat customers. Some people don’t even buy stuff, they just come in and shoot the breeze about how bad the Crokes were last weekend or whatever. From my point of view, I love it.

“My staff are great too. Seán House from Tralee is the assistant manager. He has been here a year and a bit and he has been excellent. We have eight or nine part-timers and most of them are in college but they’re all very in vested in the place. They’re all here four or five years which is a good sign. They get excited when new stuff is coming in, they get a kick out of that.”

As a Kerry native who played the game to a high level, Quinn is naturally a massive fan of Kerry football. I was cu rious to know if the nature of his line of work, specifically the fact that the for tunes of the business depend so heav ily on the fortunes of the team, affects the way he watches the games.

“A couple of years ago Kerry lost to Cork and we were out so early. Maybe not during the game but shortly after you’re saying to yourself, revenues are going to be a lot further down now. So definitely after the game it would be one of the first thoughts to come into your head. But it's more the county board and the revenues that go back that I’d be thinking of.

“It would pop into your head after wards but I’d be a normal Kerry sup porter as the game is going on.”

Ultimately, it’s all about facilitating the continued growth of football and hurling in the county and Quinn is full of praise for his bosses who help make that happen.

“The chairman Patrick O’Sullivan - the store was his idea first day – as well as John O’Leary, John Joe Carroll and Liam Chute, they’re all very success ful in their own professional careers. They’re very much doing this on a vol untary basis because they’re so proud of the shop and how well it has done. We’re all in it together.

“When you have a successful year fi nancially it means you can develop Currans further, you can develop the pitches, you can bring in more Games Development Administrators. You can keep pushing on.”

The brand has a long way to go to reach Nike levels but with talented individu als on the pitch and in the boardroom, Kerry GAA appear to be ticking all the right boxes.

DETAILS: The new Kerry shirt got a frosty reception upon its release but it grew in popularity as the year wore on. Photo: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile.

Eamonn Fitzgerald reports as Kerins O’Rahillys, Rathmore and Fossa progress to the fi nals of their respective Mun ster Club Championships

Getting to Croke Park is now the focus for Fossa, Rathmore and Kerins O’Rahillys. Winning an All-Ireland medal in any grade - in football, hurling, or camogie, or in the men’s or ladies’ game - is the pinnacle for club players.

Clanmaurice are the only Kerry winners of a hurling or camogie All-Ireland; their camogie title came at the intermediate level in 2019.

Castleisland are the only Kerry winners of the senior ladies football championship, annexing titles in 1983 and again in 1986. At intercounty level Kerry won All-Ire lands in 1976, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990 and 1993. I have no doubt that if the senior ladies club football competition was en vogue during the reign of that outstand ing Beaufort footballer Mary Jo Curran, Beaufort would have been winners.

For such a successful football county, Kerry clubs have only won six All-Ireland senior club men’s football titles in the 51 years of the competition. East Kerry won the title in 1971, the inaugural year, and Dr Crokes lead the way with two (1992 and 2017). Castleisland (1985), Laune Rang ers (1996) and Austin Stacks (1977) also have one apiece.

In contrast to the senior competition, Kerry clubs have dominated the interme diate and junior football series.

In the intermediate competition, which started in 2004, Kerry lead the way with six titles. Ardfert won in 2007 and again in 2015. Other winners were St Michael’s/ Foilmore in 2009, Miltown/Castlemaine in 2012, St Mary’s Cahersiveen in 2016, and Kilcummin in 2019.

Spa lost the final of 2010 to Cookstown Fr Rock’s and Finuge lost in the 2013 final. The junior competition commenced in

Kerry trio march on in Munster

2002 and Kerry clubs have reigned su preme. Ardfert, Skellig Rangers, Castle gregory, St Mary’s Cahersiveen, Brosna, Templenoe, Glenbeigh/Glencar, Beaufort and Na Gaeil are all past champions. Gn eeveguila were beaten in the 2022 final. Why have Kerry clubs been very success ful at junior and intermediate levels, yet comparatively unsuccessful at the senior level? Must get back to that conundrum in future articles.

Meanwhile, the focus is on the current journeys of Kerins O’Rahillys, Rathmore and Fossa. They all came through their first hurdles in Munster last weekend.

MUNSTER SENIOR CLUB SEMI-FINAL

Kerins O’Rahillys 1-9 • Éire Óg Ennis 1-8 Rahillys are representing Kerry in light of becoming Kerry club champions (as dis tinct from county champions) and they needed home advantage to outwit a very plucky Éire Óg side in Austin Stack Park.

They got off to a great start, leading by 1-1 after three minutes. Big Tommy Walsh was the goalscorer.

The Tralee team were reduced to 14 men from as early as the 22nd minute when their star midfielder David Moran was sent off for a second yellow card offence. Éire Óg were now back in contention and were in with a great chance of winning. However, their shooting was poor and Strand Road were grateful that they were able to fly home Jack Savage and Cormac Coffey from Dubai and Gavin O’Brien from New York. They scored six points between them.

It was a gritty display by Rahillys, but I do not expect them to make it to Croke Park, not to mind winning the All-Ireland. They have a great chance in Munster with Nemo Rangers and Clonmel defeated, leaving Newcastle West between them and a Munster crown.

MUNSTER INTERMEDIATE CLUB SEMI-FINAL

Kanturk 2-6 • Rathmore 1-17

It was all too easy for Rathmore as they demolished near Cork neighbours Kan turk in a one-way contest at Páirc Uí Chaoimh.

They dominated from the start and it came as no surprise when chief striker and consistent goalscorer John Moyni han found the net after just five minutes of play.

The game was out of the reach of Kanturk at half-time when they trailed 1-10 to 0-2. The Rathmore defence, well marshalled by Paul Murphy and Andrew Moynihan, denied Kanturk when they tried to whit

tle down that unassailable lead. In fact, Rathmore led by 16 points at one stage. Top scorer was deadly marksman Chrissy Spiers with seven points from frees. With no fewer than six Walshes starting for Kanturk, the Cork side disappointed, but Rathmore shone and will be confident of defeating Na Piarsaigh of Limerick in the Munster final - and hopefully an All-Ire land title to boot.

MUNSTER JUNIOR CLUB SEMI-FINAL

Fossa 1-22 • Castlemahon 0-5 There is more to Fossa than the marvel lous Clifford bothers. They were the lead ers who brought them through Kerry, es pecially in Kerry final when they snatched victory from the better Listry side. Nei ther David nor Paudie sat back on Satur day last but it was the O’Shea brothers, Emmett and Tadhg, who grabbed the headlines. Emmett scored 1-7 and Tadhg chipped in with three points.

Fossa controlled this game from the throw-in and led by ten points to one with just 20 minutes on the clock. By halftime it was 1-11 to 0-1. There was no way back for Castlemahon, but in fairness, to them, they tried very hard.

Fossa gave a well-earned break to David Clifford in the 48th minute when he has beckoned ashore for a rest. After all, they didn’t want to risk injury to their star play er for the Munster final versus Kilmurry. A great display by Fossa and they will have realistic hopes of a Munster crown and to maybe add to Kerry’s domination of the All-Ireland junior club competition.

JOB DONE: Barry John Keane of Kerins O'Rahillys celebrates after his side's victory over Éire Óg in Tralee. Photo: Eóin Noonan/Sportsfile.

Killarney Athletic

U17 LEAGUE: Castleisland 1-1 Killarney Athletic. Our 17s drew yesterday 1-1 to Castleisland. Hugh Dorian scored from a corner with a powerful header.

U13 DIVISION 1: Killarney Athletic B 0-2 LB Rovers. Super game of football at Woodlawn this afternoon LB Rovers running out the winners in a very close ly run affair. Thanks to LB Rovers for a sporting game.

U12 GIRLS NC SHIELD: Killarney Athletic 9-2 Mastergeeha (Lillian 4, Ella 2, Rea gen 2, Elle). Great performance & result again today for our U12 girls. Thanks to Mastergeeha for a sporting game.

DIVISION 3A: Elton Wanderers 0-4 Kil larney Athletic C (Aaron O’Sullivan 2, Murt Shea, Gavin Moriarty). Despite the scoreline, this was a very evenly matched game with Athletic very clinical in front of goal. Athletic were 1 up after 3 minutes with a quickly taken corner to the oncoming Aaron o Sullivan who had a fine finish to the top of the net. Murt O’Shea got the second and his sec ond in 2 games 3 minutes later before Gavin Moriarty was fouled and stepped up with a deft free kick to the bottom right corner of the goal before Aaron o Sullivan got his second and Athletics fourth before half time, going off on the stroke of half time with an injury. Elton never gave up but with a fine defensive display from the back 4 and midfield 3, Elton were kept at bay. An outstanding performance from 1-14 making it 2 wins from 3 in the division and building great momentum.

UNDER 13 LEAGUE: Killarney Athletic 4 Ballyhar Dynamos 5. Unfortunately Athletic rolled the dice but just came up short. Fair play to Ballyhar and we wish them the best of luck going forward.

Killarney Celtic

RESULTS: FAI Junior Cup - Killarney Celt ic 4 Coachford 2 (Stephen McCarthy 2, Lee Downing, OG). Premier B - Killarney Celtic B 3 AC Athletic 1 (Conor McCarthy 3). U15 Div 1 - Mastergeeha 7 Killarney Celtic 1 (Samuel Scroope). U15 Div 2Mastergeeha B 6 Killarney Celtic B 1. U13 Premier - Killarney Celtic 1 St Brendans Park 6 (Pa McCarthy). U13 Div 1 - Lis towel Celtic 1 Killarney Celtic 4 (Tristan Murphy 2, Ben O’Sullivan, Simon Siroti ak). U12 National Cup - Killarney Celtic 1 Avenue Utd 2 AET (Noah Brosnan).

GIRLS: U16 National Trophy - Regional Utd B 1 Killarney Celtic 4 (Maeve Court ney 2, Abbey Cronin, Aine O’Sullivan). U12 National Trophy - Regional Utd 5 Killarney Celtic 0.

Mastergeeha

LOTTO: There was no winner on No vember 25 of the Jackpot for €6,000. Numbers drawn were 9, 15, 21, 28. Con solation prizes of €50 went to Neilus McCarthy, Kilbrean, Aisling Moynihan, Corner Bar, Paul Cahill, Knocklebede,

Brian & Micheal Kelly, Gullane. Next Draw is December 2 for a Jackpot of €6,200.

MEK Galaxy

GIRLS U12 NATIONAL CUP: Round 3Mungret Regional (Limerick) 0-5 MEK Galaxy. In the game of the weekend an excellent effort from the U12 girls beat ing one of the top teams in Limerick County. Such a positive performance from everyone, we cannot pick out one player for Player of the Game! Scorers were Ava Harty 2, Megan Quigg 2 and Emily Allen. Round 4, here we come!

BOYS U13 PREMIER: Killorglin 3-1 MEK Galaxy. Despite being very under strength our boys put in a great shift against a well drilled Killorglin side. We went behind after 3 minutes to a well taken free kick. Went 2 down mid-way in the second half but shortly after Harry O’Mahony pulled us back into the game with a well taken goal. Killorglin got a third late in the second half, but we kept fighting to the end. Ryan Van Der Mer we was excellent in defence, but Man of the match goes to Conor McKeon in goal who made some outstanding saves and had the referee and Killorglin coaches singing his praise. Well done, Conor!

BOYS U15 PREMIER: MEK Galaxy 2-3 St Brendan’s Park. Goals scored by Feargal Murphy and Jayden Fennell. Man of the Match Dylan O’Meara was outstanding at the back. Strong displays also from David McCarthy, Danny Murphy and Feargal Murphy. We played well from the start, taking the lead from a great finish from Feargal Murphy, match was very even throughout the half with the St Brendan’s Park left back scoring from a long range looping shoot just before half time. We went behind from a corner in the 2nd half and later to a near post shot. Jayden pulled a goal back with 10 mins left but we couldn't force an equal izer.

SENIOR: MEK Galaxy 2-3 St Brendan’s Park. A late goal gave St Brendan’s Park visitors in the Charleville Cheese Premier B Scorers for MEK were Liam Roche and Aaron Coffey. Well done to Aaron who made his first start for the team and played very well with a super goal.

Killarney Legion GAA

CLUB AGM: The Clubs AGM was held last Friday, November 25 in the club house with a slightly disappointing attendance present. David Randles chaired a comprehensive review of the clubs activities this year and paid tribute to all those who undertook various roles from officers to coaches to all the vari ous sub committee members. He paid particular tribute to Sharon O'Grady for her role as chair of the Social commit tee as Sharon is stepping down from her role. She will no doubt keep herself busy on the coaching side. The club finances were also discussed with par ticular emphasis on a renewed effort to

fundraise. With our facilities upgraded in recent years it comes with an increased maintenance cost. The ever busy Field and Facilities committee were rightly lauded for their efforts in keeping our playing surfaces in top conditions and everyone from grass cutters to pitch liners were suitably praised. Donal O’Leary gave a comprehensive round up of the Club Juvenile activities and with over a dozen teams between boys and girls it certainly is a busy department. The need to recruit new members and retain existing ones is of course of the utmost importance and all club mem bers are being urged to pay their part on that count. A sub committee headed up by Vice Chairperson Liam McGuire will also be established to research and nominate a Club Coaching Officer. This process will commence shortly with the hope of being completed by early 2023. The following will serve as officers for the year ahead. President: Tommy Regan. Vice Presidents: Noel Wade, Donie Fleming, Joan Culloty, Joan Fog arty, Johnny Culloty, Mary Regan, Sean O’Grady, Jimmy O’Leary. Chairperson: David Randles, Secretary: Lara O’Brien, Vice Chair: Liam McGuire, Treasurer: John Foran, Registrar: Fiona Ni Chon chubhair , PRO: Enda Walshe, East Kerry Board Delegate: John Hegarty, County Board Delegate: Donal Culloty, Juvenile Committee: Chairperson Donal O’Leary.

Spa GAA

O'DONOGHUE CUP: Quarter-Final - Spa 2-8 Listry 0-9. Semi-final Spa v Gneeve guilla this Saturday, Dec 3 at 12.30pm in Dr Crokes pitch.

31 CARD DRIVE CHAMPIONSHIP OF KERRY: Postponed 2020 finals took place at the Torc Hotel on Friday night. Patrick Cahill and Dan Morris were the winners and were presented with the John Kelly Memorial Shield. Well done to all competitors and the volunteers that organise the competition each year - Dave Herlihy, Paddy O'Keeffe and Pad dy B Lynch. The next 31 Card Drive will begin again in the spring.

DONIE O'SULLIVAN BOOK LAUNCH: This Friday, Dec 2 in Spa at 7.30pm. Everyone welcome.

SANTA IS COMING TO SPA: For your chance to meet Mr & Mrs Claus please join us in the clubhouse at Spa on Sun day, December 4 between 4-6.30pm. CAIRDE SPA DRAW: We need your support. We are calling on everyone to support our Cairde Spa fundraising draw that’s running at the moment. This is a once-off draw to raise funds towards the development of our grounds and fa cilities. There are 10 great prizes up for grabs, including over €20,000 in cash prizes, and the draw will take place this December. Tickets are on sale through our website spagaa.com or from club members and officers. Any queries pls contact Andy on 087 2236754 or Deir dre on 085 1216359.

LOTTO: No winner and next Monday's jackpot is €10,000. Play on spagaa.com or tickets on sale in usual outlets. Thank you for your support.

Dr Crokes GAA

U15 EAST KERRY DIV 1 FINAL: Dr Crokes 1-9 Kenmare Shamrocks 3-11. Played in excellent conditions in the Fitzgerald Stadium this keenly contested final was in the balance into injury time when a well-executed Crokes penalty had the margin down to just 4 points. Credit must be given to Kenmare who scored a late goal and point deep into injury time which earned them a deserving win in a fine sporting contest. The game had everything, some fine scores by both teams and a penalty save from Kerry Minor panellist Kacper Robak but in the end the physically stronger Kenmare team just about edged out a youthful Crokes team in a really good game of football where 5 Crokes U13s played. This was the third final for this fine group of players and while defeated in all three finals the development and progress the team has made all year has been huge. The U14 lads in the group won the super 10 county final county final a few weeks ago. Well done to the player for their hard work and dedication throughout the year.

JUVENILE AGM will take place in the clubhouse on Monday, December 5 at 7.30pm. The juvenile section covers all underage players from academy level to U17. All welcome to attend, observe, to volunteer and participate.

CHRISTMAS PARTY: Our Juvenile Christmas Party will take place in the clubhouse on Wednesday, December 14 from 5-6.45pm. Come along and get your photo taken with Santa and the Sam Maguire.

BOOK LAUNCH: Two authors with Dr Crokes connections are launching their books this Friday, December 2. Donie O’Sullivan launches his biography Do nie O’Sullivan, A Footballer, Once in the Spa Clubhouse at 7.30pm. Earlier in the evening, Patrick O’Sullivan Greene launches his book, Revolution at the Waldorf, in the Great Southern Hotel at 6pm.

Fossa GAA

SENIOR MEN: Congratulations on our senior team in qualifying to the Munster Junior final. A great team performance especially up-front from Matt Rennie, Harry Buckley Emmett O'Shea 1-7, and Tadgh O’Shea. Next up Kilmurry of Lis sarda in two weeks time. There will be a supporters bus details to be confirmed.

Glenflesk GAA

CONDOLENCES: Sincere condolences to the Moynihan family Shronedraugh on the death of Nuala. May her gentle soul rest in peace. Condolences also to John ny Roche and the Roche family Lisbaby on the death of Johnny’s sister Lynda,

SPORT NOTES

may she rest in peace.

LOTTO: No winner of Glenflesk Lotto which took place on Nov 28 in Glenflesk Hall. Jackpot €10,100. The numbers drawn were 10, 19, 25, 27. There was no winner. Consolation prizes of €50. Clio na Moynihan, Headford; O’Donoghue’s Shop (Sellers’ Prize); Katie Crowley, Knockanes; Eileen Dennehy, Lisbaby. Next draw will take place in Glenflesk Hall on December 12. Jackpot will be €10,200. Thank you to all who support our lotto and to our sellers. Lotto tickets including annual tickets can be bought from our ticket sellers, in local pubs, in O'Briens and O'Donoghues shops, in Frankies or online via Clubforce.

MEDAL PRESENTATION: Congratula tions to Darragh Roche who was pre sented with his All-Ireland senior medal last Friday night. Well done Darragh. O’DONOGHUE CUP QUARTER-FINAL: Gneeveguilla 1–13 Glenflesk 1–9.

GLENFLESK CCE: Massive congratula tions to our members who competed in the group competitions yesterday to great acclaim. Nóirín Healy & Col leen Angland took home 1st place in the U14 duets. Olivia & Seán Angland were awarded 1st place in the U11 duets. Nóirín, Olivia, Seán & Colleen came to gether to take 1st place in the quartets.

Kilcummin GAA

AGM: Kilcummin Club AGM (incorpo rating juvenile club) will take place this Friday at 8pm in Clubhouse. Everyone welcome.

COUNTY BOARD ELECTIONS: Con gratulations to Paudie Healy who was elected to Assistant Treasurer of Kerry County Board. Commiserations to Tim Ryan who despite a great campaign just came up short in the Munster Delegate contest.

PINK NIGHT: This charity fundraiser returns again since pre-covid on Jan uary 6. Please put it in your diary and support the ladies of the club in their worthy cause. Raffles games and music are part of a great occasion on "Ladies Christmas" Proceeds go to "Comfort for Chemo".

East Kerry GAA

RESULTS: East Kerry Senior Champion ship O’Donoghue Cup Quarter-FinalsGneeveguilla 1–13 Glenflesk 1–9. Spa 2–8 Listry 0–9.

EAST KERRY U15 DIVISION 1 FINAL: Dr Crokes 1–9 Kenmare Shamrocks 3–11.

FIXTURES: Dr O’Donoghue Cup Semi-Fi nals - Spa v Gneevguilla (Saturday 12.30pm, Dr Crokes GAA). Dr Crokes v Legion (Saturday 2pm, Fitzgerald Sta dium). Intermediate Championship Fr Galvin Cup - Preliminary Round - Listry v Cordal (Sunday 12 noon, Listry). Semi-Fi nal - Fossa v Kilgarvan (Saturday 2pm, Fossa). Extra time and winner on the day in all games.

SYMPATHIES to families of Lynda O’Connor RIP Tralee, Nuala Moynihan

RIP Headford, Margaret Cronin RIP Kil cummin, Doreen O’Connor Rip Scarta glen, Philomena Jameson RIP Castleis land, Nora Phil Privett Tralee/Currow. May they all rest in peace CONGRATULATIONS to Kerins O’Rahil lys on reaching Munster Senior Club final and Rathmore on reaching Munster In termediate Club final and Fossa reaching Munster Junior Club final we wish them all Best luck in their Finals.

MEDAL PRESENTATION DINNER: Senior and U21 championship winning teams. Friday, January 6 at Killarney Heights Hotel.

Beaufort GAA

RESULTS: Congratulation to Beaufort senior men and management who have retained the Mid Kerry senior champion ship title with a win over Milltown/Cas tlemaine on a score line of Beaufort 1-11 Milltown/Castlemaine 0-9. The game was also doubled up as the Mid Kerry senior League. This was the last game of the season. Thank you to the players of all teams, managements, supporters and anybody who helped in any way during the year.

LOTTO: There was no jackpot winner on Sunday, November 27. Numbers: 1, 5, 18, 27. Consolation Prizes: €80 Jimmy Lucey, Ballymakeera. €50 Mary Anne Leane, Coolroe, Kayleen Curtin, Kilgob net Close, Conor and Tadhg Lucey c/o Danny. The next draw for a jackpot of €10,800 will be on Sunday, December 11. This is also the Christmas draw with extra prizes of hampers and bottles. Tickets are available from usual sellers, shops, and public houses and online at beaufortgaa.com. Thank you to every body who supports the lotto.

EXERCISE CLASSES continue in the Clu brooms. Spring timetable will be availa ble shortly. Please contact Club at 087 9975737 for further details.

CLUB DEVELOPMENT: Beaufort GAA Club are embarking in a Club Develop ment in the form of an All-Weather Play ing pitch and are holding a fundraising draw. Prizes will be a Ford Focus car and

cash prizes. Tickets are €25 each, 3 for €60 and are available from local sellers, shops, and public houses and online at www.beaufortgaa.com.

ONLINE CLOTHES ORDERS: A reminder that clothes needed for Christmas pre sents to be ordered now to ensure de livery on time. The link for the O’Neill’s online shop is on right of home page of www.beaufortgaa.com. Club gear is also available in the Club shop. Please con tact Mary at 086 0640065 or Maurice at 087 8234319.

Milltown/Castlemaine GAA

LOTTO: Sponsored by Almas Takeaway, Milltown. The fortnightly club lotto draw took place on Monday, November 29 at the club grounds. There was no jackpot winner on this occasion. The numbers drawn were 4, 18, 21 and the bonus ball was 2. Lucky Dip winners were as follows: €50 - Marian Burke, Castle maine. €50 - Tricia and Kevin Fitzgerald, Dingle. €25 - Ollie McSweeney, Cork. €25 - Gene and Madeline Kelly, Tralee. €25 - Michael Colgan, Castlemaine. €25 - Charles O'Connor, Killorglin. Our next club lotto draw is scheduled to take place on Monday, December 12 at 8pm in the Clubhouse where the jackpot will be €12,600. Get your draw tickets or renew your yearly tickets online on Clubforce or get your tickets for the next draw from all the usual local outlets. Mile búiochas do gach duine for playing Milltown/Castlemaine Clubs Fortnightly Fundraiser, the money raised is vital to the day to day running of our club and your support is sincerely appreciated.

TABLE QUIZ: Congratulations to the winning team of Brendan O'Connor, Karen O'Connor, Josephine O'Connor and Nora Herlihy who emerged victo rious in our Milltown/Castlemaine GAA Fundraising Table Quiz which took place in Griffin's Bar and Restaurant, Cas tlemaine on Friday night. The winners came out on top with a score of 66 after 8 rounds of questions from our excellent quizmaster Susan Sheehan. The club would like to thank all who attended and

supported the event, our hosts (Helen, Frank and staff from Griffin's Bar & Res taurant), Tom Hanafin for his assistance with sound and special mention to our many volunteers both in the lead up to the event and also on the night who en sured that it ran smoothly.

Ross Golf Club (Men)

RESULTS: On Sunday, Nov 27 we held a 12 hole champagne scramble. The following were the winners: 1st Peter Wickham,Jimmie Smith, Niall O'Brien. 2nd Alan Flynn, Maurice Coffey, Brian Hickey.

GOLF LESSONS: Please note that golf lessons/tuition are always available from Gordon Howard. For further information please contact Gordon in the Clubhouse.

Deerpark Pitch & Putt Club

CHRISTMAS TURKEYS: Christmas Tur keys (Sponsored by Tim Jones Butch ers) Round 3 Results Two Ball Scramble: Overall Nett: Brian Moloney & Aidan O'Keeffe 32½, Overall Gross: Declan Kelly & Brian Moloney 42, Second Nett: Hugh O'Sullivan and Bobby Kelly 36 and Hole-in-One: Dave Spillane 10th Hole. Round 4 this Sunday 9am and 10.45am. €5 per draw.

CHRISTMAS HAMPER: This will be played on Sunday, December 11. More details nearer the time. All Christmas related prizes will be presented this year after the December 18 competition.

U16 CHRISTMAS COMPETITION: Sched uled for Saturday, December 10 at 1pm over 18 holes. Entry €5 per player. Fur ther details next week.

MEMBERSHIP VOUCHERS: Anyone that is stuck in deciding what present to give this Christmas. Please keep in mind that a Deerpark Membership voucher would make an ideal gift. All types of vouchers catered for. Please contact Sean at 086 0508686 or Margaret at 087 9265747.

NIGHT IN MURPHYS: We look forward to returning to Murphys tonight (Friday) for our pre-Christmas get together for the first time in three years. We ask the Club Matchplay and Willie Parker prize winners to be present for 9.30pm.

WINNERS: The Killarney RFC U14 girls team who defeated Tralee 35-25 at O'Dowd Park.

Killarney Rugby

WINTER SOCIAL: Killarney Rugby win ter Social returns after being cancelled because of Covid! Our Winter Social takes place on Saturday, December 10 at the Killarney Avenue hotel, starting at 6.30pm. Dress code is formal and all are very welcome, partners included. Tick ets cost €45 per head which includes a 3 Course meal with 2 glasses of Wine, and finish the night on the dance floor. This will be a truly enjoyable night and should not be missed. Tickets can be booked via the Clubzap app.

MINIS: This Saturday our Minis host our friends from Rugbai Chorca Dhuibhne at Aghadoe and the action kicks off at 10am. Can all parents please bring some goodies for the blitz if possible. This promises to be a great morning of rug by so be sure to get along to Aghadoe to support our next generation.

RESULTS: U18 Girls: Tralee 1 -34 Killar ney. U16 Girls: Killarney 10-30 Listowel. U14 Girls: Tralee 25-35. U14 Boys: Killar ney 26-14 Tralee. Senior: Castleisland 6-3 Killarney.

FIXTURES: U16 Girls: Skinbereen v Kil larney, Sat at 12. Seniors: Killarney V Bantry, Aghadoe, Sun at 2.20pm

Muckross Rowing Club

REUNION: It was a special evening of nostalgia and history at the club’s boat house on Friday night last, November 25. We were delighted to welcome the winning Muckross crew of the Killarney Regatta Senior Four Oar race of 1972, to mark the 50th year anniversary of their historic win. The reunion was made pos sible by the return visit of Donie Cronin, who resides in Australia and was visiting his native Kerry last week. Joining Donie

were his crewmates of old, John Lyne, Pat Casey and Denis Horan. The crew was welcomed by Club Chairman, Sean Daly and John Beazley spoke of the his toric race day in 1972. The club had not won a Mens race at the annual regatta in 11 years nor a Senior race in 20 years and the Four oar victory was a momentous occasion for the club. The photograph taken of the winning crew in 1972 was recreated, with the late coxswain Jack O’Shea represented by his niece and Club Vice President, Kathleen Murphy. The crew were once again pictured with the perpetual race trophy, which itself dates back to 1886 and is inscribed with the names of winning crews since. Along with family and friends, the reun ion adjourned to the Lake Hotel and the occasion was greatly enjoyed by all in at tendance. Our thanks to the four men of the winning crew and their families for celebrating with us and to all involved in the organisation of the event.

Killarney Cougars

U16 BOYS: Killarney Cougars 58 Rathmore Ravens 31. The Cougars wel comed the Ravens to the Sem Gym on Thursday Evening last and the Cougars took the points after finally overcoming the Rathmore challenge with a big final quarter. The home side led by 5 points at the end of the quarter and by 7 pts at halftime 25-18, Cougars Andí Catha saigh and Dylan Bowler impressing for the Cougars. Cian Fitzgerald Rathmore's best performers were in fine form with some excellent baskets. Cougars in creased their advantage by the end of the third to lead 40-25 with Bowler and Mark Kennelly despite Paul Togher working hard for the visitors against the

big Cougars defenders under the boards. The Cougars dominated the last quarter with a great spread of scores with Evan Cox impressing with two big three point ers to leave no way back for Rathmore as Cougars finished strongly. Best for Cou gars were Andí Cathasaigh, AC Padrillian and Mark Kennelly. Rathmore's best performers were Alex Thomson, Cian Fitzgerald and Paul Togher. U18 BOYS: St Bridget's Currow 54 Killar ney Cougars 55. The final quarter was end to end basketball with both teams quickly into foul trouble and the lead changing through out, it looked set for a home win as the Currow boys lead by four points in the final minute with Luke Twomey and Mark O'Connor baskets, the Cougars had to press up and they reduced the arrears with quick baskets before Nathan Cox scoring two of four free throws in the final minute gave Cou gars the lead with Currow missing their opportunity from the line in the last sec ond in a thrilling finish with neither side deserving to lose this exciting contest it was Cougars that held out for the win.

Killarney Valley AC

AWARDS: The 123.ie National Athletics awards were held in Dublin last Wednes day. Killarney Valley AC were honoured to have been selected as The Develop ment Club of the year. Also our sprinter, Sarah Leahy was a nominee for Irish Uni versity Athlete of the year. Well done to all our athletes, coaches and committee.

IRELAND: Congrats and well done to Jason O’Reilly and his team mates on the Irish team in taking the team bronze medal in the SSAA International Pen tathlon held in Glasgow last weekend.

RAFLE: Finally, the 1982 Toyota Starlet

Raffle took place last Thursday, Novem ber 24 in Kellihers, Tralee. Congratu lations to Mary Terry from Fossa who was the winner of the car. All the prize winners are on our Facebook page. We would like to thank everyone sincere ly for buying tickets for the raffle and helping us sell tickets during the last few months. Please email killarneyvalleyac@ gmail.com for any queries.

Gneeveguilla AC

LOTTO: No winner of our lotto draw November 25, numbers drawn were 9, 21, 25 & 26. Sellers prize winner Mike O’Donoghue Shop, €50 y/t prize winner JP Lucey Mastergeeha, €50 to Aiden & Ryan O’Connor Knockanes, €40 each to Edel Keating Lisrobin, Tess Crowley c/o Centra Rathmore & Patricia Cronin Kilcummin. Bonus not won numbers drawn were 1, 9, 13 & 29. Next week’s jackpot €9,300 plus €1,000 bonus.

CHRISTMAS HAMPER: We will also be drawing for our First Christmas Hamper of 2022. Make sure you have your ticket to be in with a chance to win.

Kilcummin

KILCUMMIN GAA: Looking for Kilcum min merchandise for Christmas? All sizes available for juveniles. Contact Marie Le hane (087 9181973). Thank you for your continued support.

KILCUMMIN ICA: Craft Classes contin ues every Wednesday night at 8pm in the Rural Development Office. New members always welcome.

O’SHEA’S OF KERRY: There will be a coach to Knock shrine on Wednesday, December 7 for a night vigil to celebrate the Feast of The Immaculate Concep tion. For more information contact O’Shea’s at 066 7180123.

KILCUMMIN LADIES: Kilcummin Ladies Football received tops for all officers and coaches from sponsors Kieran Counihan Concrete Supplies, Marie and John Dev ane, and John Paul Lyne Gas Supplies Also pictured are U12 mentor Geraldine Pigott and club officers Colm Brosnan and Ger Healy