News Four August 2004

AUGUST 2004

NewsFour Free Community Newspaper serving Sandymount, Irishtown, Ringsend, Docklands, Ballsbridge and Donnybrook Web: www.news4.ie • E-mail: newsfourscs@eircom.net • Local Newsdesk: Phone 6673317

DUBLIN BAY: WATER QUALITY – FINE AIR QUALITY – ?

S

By Frances Corr

andymount beach is a convenient and safe beach, within easy reach of the city centre. The Strand has been enjoyed for over a century and perhaps longer but it appeared deserted over the recent hot spell.

Locals who are used to see-

ing families using the beach at this time of year have attributed their absence to unreliable media reports on the quality of water in Dublin Bay. When asked about recent reports in the media that water quality in the Bay may not be within the requirements for bathing waters standards, Matt Twomey, Assistant City Manager, of Dublin City

Council (DCC) said that tests quoted in support of this contention are not valid since they only related to a presence or absence of e-coli and total coliforms whereas it is the persistent numbers present that determine water quality.

He added that in a period of heavy rain, pollution is brought down to the Bay through the rivers and streams, which feed

M AKING A SPLASH

Pictured during the Liffey Splash Week, left to right: Alison Rooney (Youth Leader), Community Garda Kevin Byrne, Breda Murphy (Youth Leader). Middle: Vivian Boylan, Laura Crombie, Ashley Ann Dunne. Front: George Murray.

into the sea. The limits may be exceeded for a very short period. DCC has recently erected signs at a number of locations in the bay; to show the results of the continuous monitoring as it progresses.

The testing is carried out in DCCʼs accredited Central Laboratory by highly qualified staff. Samples are taken from five locations in the Bay,

which include the designated beaches and areas used by swimmers such as the Half Moon Club. Matt Twomey says there is no scientific basis for the claims that have been made in the media. Photographs which were allegedly of dried sludge were, in fact, of seaweed.

Continued on page 3.

M AKING A HIT !

Deirdre Kane from Serpentine Avenue, Ballsbridge, who won third prize in the Ladiesʼ Day fashion competition at the Horse Show.

PAGE 2

NewsFour Managing Editor Ann Ingle Advertising Manager Grainne McGuinness Staff Rose Hogan Robert C. Diaz Frances Corr Maggie Neary Patrick Duffy Nicola McMahon Lisa Berigan John Hobson Contributors Derek Buckley Rodney Devitt Andrew Thorn David Keenahan George P Kearns Andrew Whittaker Christy Hogan Alex O’Hanlon Shay Connolly Michael Hilliard George Humphries David Carroll Music Correspondent Daniel Hegarty Web Designer Andrew Thorn Photography John Cheevers Design, Typesetting, Layout Eugene Carolan Support Tony Daly Community Services, 15 Fitzwilliam Street, Ringsend, Dublin 4.

Telephone: (01)6673317 E-mail: newsfourscs@eircom.net Affiliated to Comhairle, South-East Area Network, (SEAN) Local History Research, Community Resource Service, NewsFour Newspaper, FÁS Community Employment Programme.

Opinions expressed in News Four do not necessarily represent the views of Community Services.

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

The Letterbox Madam, It is not often that I have to disagree with Catherine Cavandish and Rodney Devitt, two stalwarts (I cannot describe Rodney as a ʻValkyrʼ as used by him in his letter) who have worked tirelessly over many years on behalf of our community.

However, I feel I must put the other side of the story of the little copse of trees and shrubs in Sean Moore Park. I wonder if Catherine and Rodney have seen from the Pigeon House side the gangs of youths who secrete themselves within the trees and bushes that look so innocent, attractive and appropriate from the Beach Road. The scattered aftermath of these evening gatherings leave nothing to the imagination as to what nefarious activities are carried out there.

The City Council obviously do (for, unfortunately, it is they who have to thanklessly clean up afterwards) hence their removal of the plantings that they lovingly placed there.

I donʼt know what their future plans for the park are but I am sure that there are many families who will be grateful for the removal of these locations of risk for their sons and daugh-

ters and a source of nuisance to those who like to take an enjoyable stroll in the evenings. I do not feel that this is giving in to vandalism and unlawfulness but I prefer to have less copse and more cops to resolve the problem in Sean Moore Park.

At the risk of offending some of your lovely readers, I would apply the same argument regarding the ʻNature Parkʼ in Newbridge Avenue.

Paddy Kavanagh Madam Editor Where has your crossword gone?!! I enjoyed the mental activation your crosswords gave, even though I didnʼt get quite motivated to enter your fab competition. I would really love to see them reintroduced.

Your fond Reader, B. Ryan (We have reinstated the crossword as many of you seem to be missing it Ed.) Madam ʻNewsFourʼ is definitely the best of the community newspapers. Keep up the good work. I liked the short story in the last issue.

Noreen (Sandymount)

Madam I am e mailing you from Canada. My sister, Evelyn, was home in June and brought back a copy of ʻNewsFourʼ. There is a photo in there that was taken around 50 years ago at the Ringsend Mission Hallʼs summer outing to Greystones. Susan Kenny and her sisters Ruth and Mary are there and Sylvia Wilson is sitting beside Dorothy Turner. I was around 5 years old in that picture and I went to the Ringsend Mission Hall (we used to call it the Tuesday night meeting) until I was about 14 years old.

Have you found out the names of any other people in the photograph? Please publish them in the next issue as it brings back so many good memories, happy times and simple times.

Thank you, Joyce OʼByrne (We have many of the names and they appear on page 17).

Madam We would like through ʻNewsFourʼ to express our gratitude to Sandymount Credit Union for their generous support. We hope this will be a long and fruitful partnership for all concerned.

We will be proud to wear their monogrammed track suits.

Sincerely, Patrick Healy and the players and committee of St Patrickʼs CYFC

The Editor’s Corner

THIS EDITION of NewsFour contains a variety of articles which we hope will interest all our readers. The sixth class of Ringsend National School sent us some great material and we have profiled Don Baker, well known musician and actor, our very own music correspondent Dan Hegarty, a 2FM DJ as well as Jim Driver, The Barber of Ringsend (page 19).

We received many calls from you over the past few weeks telling us how much you appreciated the new layout and colour of the June issue. We really appreciate your feedback and interest.

The picture of the children from the Ringsend Mission Hall in the 1950s caused great excitement and we now have the names of almost all those in the photograph (see page 17). I hope you will continue to keep in touch with us by letter, email or telephone because we depend on your enthusiasm and comments to keep the paper alive.

Have you looked at our website yet (www. news4.ie)? We now have the April and June edition up with an interim web only July section with lots of photographs of Bloomsday. By the middle of August, this edition will also be online. Please tell any relations abroad about us so that they can keep in touch with whatʼs going on at home.

On a personal note, I have as yet not fully recovered from my broken arm and am still in a sling. I will be in St Vincentʼs on Friday 13 August - letʼs hope thatʼs not a bad omen– getting another X-Ray so I will let you know how I get on.

Thanks again to all our advertisers and contributors. The next issue will be out in the first week of October and by then the summer will be well and truly over. Enjoy the rest of the sunny days and make the most of the holidays.

Ann Ingle, Managing Editor, NewsFour

Madam Editor With all the work on the roads, Ringsend is looking different and almost picturesque. Looks can be deceiving, however. One senior citizen remarked “wait till the winter and the bandy paths are covered in ice, sure people will be falling like nine pins.”

In the centre of the widened footpath there is a gully in which the rain is gathering instead of flowing away.

And where has the ʻgapʼ gone to, that special spot at the corner of the library with the two well-worn seats. A place where thousands of Ringsenders sat for hours and put the world to rights before going home for their tea. You canʼt tamper with a place like the ʻgapʼ without upsetting the mindset of a whole village.

The worst spot of all is from the Carlisle Cleaners to the turn into St Patrickʼs Villas. Lots of ballast is required in order to maintain equilibrium in this area. The path incline here is worse than the Vico Road. Letʼs hope that the small but annoying deficiencies that currently exist will be sorted out when the builders come back from their summer break.

Yours sincerely, Christy Hogan

SHELBOURNE PARK RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION LTD Swimming in Sportsco We have a Swimming Session Every Sunday Morning from 11am to 1pm in Sportsco.

Price: €25 per 3 Month Session or €5 for one Swim.

Children under 3 years are FREE! This Swimming Session is open to any one who wants to join. It is not just confined to people living in the Sth.-Lotts-Rd. area.

For further Info just call over any Sunday between 11am-&-1pm.

Ask for Mary or Billy.

Our new address: NewsFour, 15 Fitzwilliam Street, Ringsend Phone: 6673317 • Email: newsfourscs@eircom.net Visit our website at: www.news4.ie

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

PAGE 3

DUBLIN BAY: WATER QUALITY – FINE; AIR QUALITY – ? ( Catherine Cavendish (BSc) secretary of Sandymount and Merrion Residents Association (SAMRA) confirmed that DCC has erected water quality notices at five points around Sandymount Strand. She said that for the most part the level of the count is far below any indication of health risk.

Catherine contends that the quality of the water in the Bay is well above the standard required for safety and far cleaner than it has been for many years. She also added that the photographs, which accompanied the article in an evening newspaper, were Ectocarpus, fine seaweed, which is prolific in July. This together with Cladophora and Enteromorpha, which are both seaweed, are obviously not sewage sludge.

The Assistant City Manager said that since the 1990s DCC has had regular liaison meetings with residents associations representing almost 3,000 residents in Ringsend, Irishtown and Sandymount, at which all aspects of water quality and progress on the completion of the Water Treatment Plant are discussed.

Matt Twomey said “We greatly appreciate the time given by voluntary Officers of the groups concerned in a constructive way to deal with issues that arise directly with stakeholders. We very much regret and have pointed out to the media that no contact was made with these groups for their comments or observation on claims being represented in the media by a person claiming to represent local residents. We have pointed out to all concerned that these claims are vexatious.”

On the question of the bad smells, which have prevailed over the area in recent times, no elaborate laboratory equipment was needed to determine its quality or source. Matt Twomey agreed that the pungent odour in the air arising from the Plant first occurred during the summer 2003 and was severe. The DCC instructed consultants to carry out an examination of the entire odour control arrangements at the plant.

It was concluded following this examination that additional equipment was required to ensure that the standard provided

FROM P AGE

1)

for in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of having no odour at the boundary of the site was achieved. The target completion date was for the end of May 2004.

This target date was not met for a variety of reasons and the installation was completed by the end of June and a comprehensive audit was carried out after that date which showed that the Plant was operating satisfactorily.

A further audit will be carried out in the autumn and Matt Twomey emphasises that if this audit shows that additional equipment is required it will be installed. Mr Twomey stated: “I would like to thank all the Residents Associations in the area who worked with us to achieve what we all want, a plant that is working to the highest environmental standards with water quality in the Bay better than it has been for the entire of the last century.”

So those of you who wish to enjoy the last of the summer sun, can feel safe as you swim in the clean waters of Dublin bay and breathe the fresh sea air.

Guitar Lessons Professional Teacher Contact Tony at 087 9743775

Chris Andrews

My sincere thanks to all who voted for me in the recent local election.

It was a disappointment not to have been elected and I feel particularly for those who worked so hard on my behalf.

It was a tremendous honour to represent you for the last five years and I appreciate the kindness and courtesy shown to me by everyone during that period.

I will continue to be active in our community as I was prior to being elected in 1999. If you feel I can be of assistance on any issue, do not hesitate to contact me.

Chris Andrews 087-2851515 e-mail: chrisandrews2006@eircom.net

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NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

REBIRTH OF IRISHTOWN STADIUM

By Frances Corr

I

n 1997 the Combined Residents Association expressed in their submission to the Dublin Docklands Development Authority (DDDA) Master Plan, the communityʼs wish to see the Stadium at Irishtown, upgraded and developed as a state of the art Sports Complex. Their wish

came true this summer when the Minister for Sports and Tourism Mr John OʼDonoghue TD officially opened the new community amenity at Irishtown Stadium.

The facilities include a 400metre tartan style athletics track, a resurfaced soccer pitch on the infield and five five-a-side all-weather football pitches. A state of the art pavilion, which

A H ISTORY

OF THE

includes changing rooms with showers, gymnasium, aerobics studio, meeting rooms, kitchen and storage has also been provided.

Speaking at the opening, local TD Eoin Ryan welcomed “this wonderful addition to the sporting infrastructure of the area.”

He went on to say that when he was Minister for State at the Department of Community and

Family Affairs he became aware of a number of sports venues under development throughout Ireland and set about pushing the project for Irishtown.

Eoin Ryan also congratulated the local community and sporting groups and praised the contribution of the Chairperson of the group Charlie Murphy for helping to bring the project to fruition.

The Stadium development cost in excess of €6.5m. The Department of Arts, Sports and Tourism, under its Sport Capital Grants Scheme, Dublin City Council (DCC) and the DDDA provided the funding for the project. The lands are publicly owned and managed by DCC and the facilities will be managed directly by the City Council. The new facility is aimed primarily at the youth of Ringsend, Irishtown, Sandymount, Pearse Street and the surrounding areas. The local soccer clubs and schools will use it, as will community games. Crusaders AC will also be based there. It is also available to the general public and will operate on pay and play basis.

O RIGINAL I RISHTOWN S TADIUM

By Frances Corr

T

he original Irishtown Stadium was the brainchild of a local man Charles (Charlie) Kenny who lived in Ringsend Park up to his death in 1990. His daughter Phyllis Byrne, who still lives at the family home, told me he would have been thrilled to see the new development at the Stadium, which was built on the original footprint.

The story takes us back to the 1940s. Shelbourne Association, Football Club had to relinquish its lease on the grounds at Shelbourne Park. The club, which was the oldest professional football club in the 26 counties, found itself homeless.

They were, according to newspaper reports of the time, in a dire state and desperately trying to find new grounds for the club.

Charlie Kenny, who was a Director of Shelbourne AFC (Shels) and a member of the League of Ireland Management Committee, is reported to have said that at the time he was feeling very despondent as he prepared to attend a Board meeting of Shelbourne AFC. The main item on the agenda was the gloomy fact that the clubʼs lease at Shelbourne Park had been terminated.

While preparing for the meeting he was shaving himself in a backroom

of his home and as he looked out of the window what caught his eye was a vast stretch of infilled land which had been reclaimed from the sea.

It stretched from Ringsend across Irishtown and into Sandymount.

The reclamation of the site had been undertaken by the local authority through ʻdumpingʼ of waste to create the new ground. This, he thought, will make an ideal site for the new

The original Irishtown Stadium at this location was the home of Shelbourne FC in the late 1940s and 1950s. It had a cinder athletic track around it and such notables as Olympic champion Ronnie Delaney and high-jumper Brendan OʼReilly trained frequently there in preparation for their Olympic exploits.

In a message to all involved, Ronnie Delaney the 1500 metres Irish Olympic Champion in 1956 said “I competed in Irishtown Stadium in 1954, setting an Irish record in 800yards and that early success helped me towards my Olympic goals.”

He congratulated DCC, the local community and clubs and all those involved in this great sporting initiative for the city.

The development of the new athletics track, soccer pitches and sporting pavilion at Irishtown will help countless young people and hopefully be an inspiration for future generations to come.

Left: TD Eoin Ryan pictured at the opening of Irishtown Stadium with some enthusiastic patrons.

stadium.

A long lease was obtained on the land and the foreshore landlords, the Pembroke and Herbert estate, cooperated. The club obtained almost 21 acres of the reclaimed land. The builder enclosed approximately. 8 acres. Charlie and his fellow directors, who included A. Byrne, chairman; C.V. Herbert; W. Darby and J. L. Brennan decided that to achieve

their goal and invest in this ambitious venture they would have to channel as much money as possible into the project.

Shelbourneʼs expenses were cut drastically, the wage bill was kept at a minimum and no dividends were paid to the directors. But there was no expense to be spared on the stadium. Charlie was quoted at the time as saying “only the best is good enough,

no matter what the expense, for this is going to be Irelandʼs number one all-sport stadium.” This was to be a state of the art home for Shelʼs.

Studies of stadiums in Britain, Europe and America were undertaken.

A Leinster firm laid the cinder running track, on the model of that of the English Wembley stadium, and it was reputed to be even better as it was outside the football pitch, so it didnʼt have to be covered at any time during matches.

The stadium was capable of holding 100,000 people. It was to cater for athletics, open-air boxing, indoor tennis and be capable of facilitating a number of other events, which would attract large attendances. There were also plans to build a swimming pool.

A large car park for 2,500 vehicles was to be provided. The cost of the project was estimated to be £21,000.

Shelbourne signed the lease for the Irishtown stadium on 19th November 1950. When the boundary wall and a temporary pavilion were erected and the surface was ready, Shels moved from Glenmalure Park, which they shared with Shamrock Rovers. As well as many football and athletic legacies left to the area by those who chose to pursue a dream they also left us the site of the New 21st century state-of-the-art stadium.

Above: Signing on the line.

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

PAGE 5

ertisement feature - Advertisement feature - Advertisement feature - Advertisement feature - Advertisement feature - Advertisement featu

KEEP RECYCLING THIS SUMMER NEW RECYCLING CENTRE OFF ROUNDABOUT AT SEAN MOORE ROAD, RINGSEND Dublin City Council has opened a new Recycling Centre immediately adjoining the Council’s Main Lift Pumping Station, at the above address.

The facility which is for HOUSEHOLD WASTE ONLY is being managed by Thorntons Recycling.

The following materials will be accepted at the site:

IT Computer Equipment Brown Goods - Televisions, Radios, Video Players Timber White Goods - Fridges, Freezers, Washing Machines, Cookers, Tumble Dryers Mobile Phones Household DIY Rubble Green Garden Waste Waste Engine Oil, Cooking Oil Bulky Items e.g. Furniture Household Hazardous Waste e.g. Paint, Aerosols

Paper / Newspapers / Magazines Junk Mail Cardboard Beverage Cartons e.g. Tetrapak All Glass Bottles and Jars Aluminium, Beverage Cans Steel Food Cans Plastic Bottles Soft Plastic Packaging Textiles Electrical Equipment (tube lights, bulbs) Batteries (domestic & car)

The following Opening Hours Apply: February 1st to October 31st, Monday to Friday, 9.00 a.m. - 8.00 p.m.

Saturdays and Bank Holidays, 9.00 a.m. - 4.00 p.m.

November 1st to January 31st, Monday to Friday, 9.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m.

Saturdays and Bank Holidays, 9.00 a.m. - 2.00 p.m.

Any queries in relation to materials accepted should be directed to the Centre at phone number: 6144750 ertisement feature - Advertisement feature - Advertisement feature - Advertisement feature - Advertisement feature - Advertisement featu

PAGE 6

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

A ‘B LOW -I N ’ A ROUND R INGSEND

By Maggie Neary

T

hat Tuesday in June was a hot Summerʼs day. From the Waterways Visitor Centre the seaward spaciousness looked inviting so I crossed the iron bridge and set off. Down by the Ocean Bar people were sipping morning drinks in the still shaded outdoor area.

Rounding the corner a mighty gloom fell on the path as the sun was hidden by the towering buildings to my side.

The few boats moored further down along looked old and weather-beaten with names ranging from lofty-sounding ʻExcaliburʼ and ʻRoin Mhorʼ to ʻOverdraftʼ. The ʻNaomh Eannaʼ looked sad, like a skeletal creature much neglected and abandoned except for the unlikely watersports shop lurking in its belly.

A flurry of excitement arrived in the shape of the Viking Splash driving through the gates. As it approached the slip into the water the guide was instructing those on board, mainly schoolgirls, to lift their hands in the air and, he warned, the boat would not move until he was obeyed.

Up shot the arms and away dove the vehicle into the water to the accompanying squeals and shouts from the passengers. I found myself giggling in glee.

Continuing along the roadway I went down the steps at Ringsend Bridge. Along this rather litter-polluted patch the open water spaces were so filled by the dinning echoes

of demolition machines that I felt I might be in the middle of a great noisy battleground.

A little hint of calmness came as the space opened out and the Point Depot appeared across the water, elegant and gentle on the eye from where I stood on the footbridges between the Camden, Buckingham and Westmoreland locks. Iʼd read that these locks, opened in 1796, were designed to hold 600 ships at any one time but rarely held more than a few dozen.

I carried on along Hanover Quay, passing red brick

warehousing to my right and to my left the newly laid paving at the waters edge, still cordoned off. Further along walking became treacherous

W AVE

A charity benefit in aid of

The Children’s Medical and Research Foundation, Crumlin Children’s Hospital Railway Union, Park Avenue, Sandymount 5.30 pm on Sunday August 15th.

Events on the day will include 5-a-side football league, champagne reception, live jazz band and full barbecue Tickets cost €35 per person or €75 for a family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) Tickets are available at the door.

For further information call Jenni Whelan on 087 2897465

By Frances Corr

T

he Blue Flag is a recognised ʻEco Label. It is owned and run by the independent non-profit organisation, the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).

It is operated in Ireland by the environmental education unit of An Taisce.

It is a symbol of high environmental standards and is an award given to communities that make a special effort to keep their beaches and marinas clean

as, trapped on a narrow street between high walls, I competed for space with the large lorries that roared by. I escaped this to walk again on the wa-

THE

terʼs edge at a safer distance from the construction site that much of this whole area currently seems to serve as.

I regained the busy Iron Bridge. Looking back, I saw a very pretty house fronting onto the waterside on that hazardous walk along Hanover Quay. From where I now stood it appeared to me that some of the lush green garden in front of this building might now occupy a space that may once have offered public access alongside the waterʼs edge.

Overall I felt that the view that had prompted this walk had not quite lived up to the calm quietness I had anticipated. Perhaps when all the construction is completed the once-open spaces of these 25 acres of water and the towering blocks might marry well.

Turning to look inland beyond the Box in the Docks, I cast a thought towards the promised pleasures that might await a walker along the canal towpaths that lead across Dublin and into the far-off green fields of the countryside. Maybe another day the sun might shine again and tempt me further afield.

B LUE F LAG

and manage them with consideration for the local environment.

The flag is awarded annually and is valid for one year only.

Dublin City Council (DCC) monitors the quality of the water in Dublin bay on a monthly basis.

The water in Dublin bay may reach blue flag standards but there are 27 criteria which must be complied with in order to achieve this award, some are imperative others are guidelines.

In brief what is required to achieve blue flag status

include: • Easy and safe access • sufficient and clean public toilets • first aid must be available • access to dogs must be controlled • access for people with disabilities • proper maintenance of beach facilities • bathing water quality must be posted • recreational activities on the beach must not endanger any beach use • sufficient litter bins must be available and the area cleaned on a regular basis.

• no camping, unauthorised driving or dumping on the beach.

Maybe we should aim to achieve this coveted award for the beaches in Dublin 4 by 2007, which will be the 20th anniversary of the awarding of the Blue Flag.

In the words of a wellknown politician “a lot done more to do.”

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

PAGE 7

A P LACE

FOR

J AMES J OYCE IN

THE

G REEN ?

By Rodney Devitt

S

andymount Green rightly hosts a fine bust of William Butler Yeats, one of the greatest poets of the twentieth century. His father had lived in Castleville, beside the Green, and when he got married he moved around the corner to Sandymount Avenue, where William was born.

We in this unique village of Dublin can be justifiably proud of our association with the Great Man. But there is another equally famous penman, whose reputation is amongst the most famous in the canon of Irish and world writers, and in whose works Sandymount has achieved a universal recognition, and who I believe should be appropriately honoured with a similar bust in our Green. I refer of course to James Joyce.

Of Joyceʼs three major novels: Portrait of the Artist, Finneganʼs Wake, and Ulysses, it is the latter which has probably gained the most world-wide renown because of its universal all-humanlife-is-there theme, its ability to reduce its readers to tears of laughter or tears of emotion be-

cause of its perceptiveness, and its vast range of classical and literary styles and allusions which frighten off the faint-hearted.

But Ulysses is also the book which puts Sandymount on the lips of professors and plumbers alike, though they may never have trod the leafy avenues of Dublin Four. The book deals with the peregrinations of Mr. Leopold Bloom, and a thousand other characters, throughout Dublin on one day, and is liberally sprinkled with references to and incidents taking place in and around Sandymount.

Of the three main scenarios set in our hallowed suburb, the first takes place about mid morning. Stephen Dedalus has parted company after a row with stately, plump Buck Mulligan out in Sandycove, and has walked along the coast towards the city, the final part of his journey being along Sandymount Strand. Here he stops to think.

This is the first chapter in Ulysses in which Joyce makes extensive use of his famous device, the stream of consciousness. His long and vivid description of the strand: sea spawn and sea wrack, the nearing tide, that rusty boot, snotgreen, bluesilver, rust, crackling mast and razor shells, sandflats breathing upward sewage breath, a porter bottle stood up in the sandy dough, a dog further out chasing a low skimming gull, could have been written last week, let alone a hundred years ago. And Stephen asks himself that immortal question: Am I walking into eternity along Sandymount Strand?

At about the same time, and about half a mile away, Mr. Bloom is stepping into a carriage with Simon Dedalus, Stephenʼs father, Martin Cunningham and Mr. Power, outside Number Nine, Newbridge Avenue, from where poor Paddy Dignam, who died from drink-induced apoplexy, is to be brought in his horse drawn hearse to Glasnevin Cemetery.

Joyce traces in some detail the route: Tritonville Road, Irishtown, Ringsend Road, tram tracks, Watery Lane, Wal-

lace Bros. Botttleworks, Dodder bridge, Gasworks, and on through the city. But it is not just a litany of familiar road names. It is Mr. Bloomʼs inner thoughts and comments on the places passed which etch them into vivid life.

Dusk on a warm summerʼs evening, and Mr.Bloom is back in Sandymount, this time down on the Strand behind the Star of the Sea Church, whose East gable wall in those days was only feet from the sea wall.

The menʼs temperance retreat is concluding with rosary, sermon and benediction celebrated

by Canon OʼHanlon, and the Tantum Ergo is audible over the strand wall. Cissy Caffrey, Edy Boardman and Gertie McDowell are sitting on the sand minding the twins Tommy and Jacky, and Baby Boardman. They too, and Bloom resting on a rock a little away from them, can hear the hymn and smell the incense wafting out of the open church.

Gertie, unwittingly, reveals more leg and stocking and thigh as she leans back to watch the sky, Bloom becomes more aroused, until the fireworks display from the bazaar in Ballsbridge climaxes with a Roman candle stream of golden rain in the sky above them.

Most of this chapter is written in the flowery, simpering style of the novelettes and magazines of the day, yet it encompasses a vast range of conflicting and complementary conditions including sex, religion, innocence and carnality, and all with that superb use of language, parody,

satire and the understanding of human nature.

These chapters contain more than just incidents that happen to be set in a particular location, namely Sandymount. As he did with the whole of Dublin, Joyce brings the real Sandymount, living and breathing, into the readerʼs congnizance.

Of course, it is not just in Ulysses that Sandymount features frequently. A Painful Case, one of his Dubliners series of stories, features Mrs. Emily Sinico, who was knocked down and killed by the engine of the ten oʼclock slow train from Kingstown, while attempting to cross the tracks at Sydney Parade Station.

One could continue fine combing Joyceʼs works for such references, but I think it sufficient to

say that the incidents, anecdotes and characters portrayed, fictional though they may have been, have given a more lively vitality to Sandymount in the mindʼs eye of generations of his readers than many other real-life writings.

Yeats is rightly honoured here, but in truth Sandymount always had more of a Joycean flavour than a Yeatsean one. Every Bloomsday for quite some years, a dedicated group of enthusiasts have paid homage to Joyce and entertained the assembled crowd in the heart of our village. Is it now time to consider honouring James Joyce with a matching bust in Sandymount Green?

Above: Spectators enjoy Bloomsday activities on Sandymount Green in June, while ʻJames Joyceʼ gives voice.

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PAGE 8

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

N EWS F OUR ’ S ( AND 2FM’ S )

D AN H EGARTY

By Andrew Thorn

“I

remember wandering into the Seafort Avenue ʻNewsFourʼ office. This guy came out, who turned out to be Dennis McKenna. I asked him ʻDo you have anyone writing about music? Would you give me a go?ʼ” Ten years ago the then-editor of NewsFour, Dennis McKenna, was asked if he had anyone writing about music, the person inquiring about journalistic opportunities was, of course, Dan Hegarty. Ten years later Dan is still writing for us.

Dan Hegarty hails from the Sandymount area. Heʼs 29 and a successful DJ with 2FM. As he has become a more experienced journalist, his NewsFour music section has grown. When he started, he had a single column.

Now, he has two pages to fill.

“Love of music came long be-

fore I even knew what journalism was.” For Dan, it is obvious that music is what captured his imagination at an early age. “Some people love football, some people love rugby, some people love boxing or whatever it is. I just discovered this thing called music.”

Dan was attracted to music, not only by the sound but also by the image of it, how the people were so ʻcoolʼ. Danʼs early music experiences were supplied by, among others, 2FM, Radio Nova and Top of the Pops. Even to this day Dan can still remember the first time he heard the sound of U2 and Prince.

But liking music is not enough: you have to have the drive to follow through on your dreams. For Dan, one of the greatest formative influences was not a band on the radio, but his mother, who put the question “what are you going to do after school?”

As it turned out, Dan spent two

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years studying Radio Broadcasting, at the Dun Laoghaire College of Art and Design, and two years studying Journalism, at Colaiste Dhulaigh.

After getting a break through ʻNewsFourʼ, Dan worked at a variety of publications, before landing a position with 2FM. He did college radio and community radio with a number of different stations. He also wrote for magazines and a number of papers in America, mainly for free, in order to improve his portfolio.

One of the magazines that Dan worked for was Revolver, an Australian publication, during the year he spent in Australia.

Dan calls Revolver “one of the cooler alternative magazines.”

He considers it to be the Antipodean version of the NME. Dan

feels that his time spent in Australia was a positive experience, both personally and professionally.

Dan did not neglect his ʻNewsFourʼ responsibilities while living in Australia. He sent back his articles via post for every issue.

After his sojourn in southern waters, Dan worked for two years with Localireland.com, which he considers his grounding as a professional writer.

Today, Dan is hosting the Midnight to 2 am slot, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, on 2FM. Heʼs been doing this for about 6 months now. As he puts it, “Iʼm doing exactly what Iʼve always dreamt about. Iʼm a full time presenter on 2FM, which is a dream come true.”

Danʼs show includes a lot of

music that wouldnʼt necessarily get coverage. Both Irish and international acts are played.

“I think itʼs really needed because there are so many people out there who have a hunger for listening to new music.” Dan chooses the play list for his show himself. “My thing is good music and hopefully people are enjoying it.”

Dan gets in contact with most of the unsigned Irish bands that he plays. He reads and researches what he is going to play before each show. Dan also gets a huge amount of material sent in.

For him, itʼs a matter of sifting through it and getting the time to listen to it. Dan considers “the sifting” to be a labour of love.

“Its always a pleasure to listen to something, I mean some stuff that youʼd put out you would say to yourself ʻI donʼt like that at allʼ, but when you put on something and it is just fantastic, thatʼs great.”

Dan, if he had to choose between the two would choose radio broadcasting over journalism. But that is not to say that he would ever consider giving up on either of them. “Both areas are cutting edge. There are rules as there are with everything else.

Pretty much within those rules you can be dynamic or cutting or as safe as you want, you can really put across your personality.”

Dan had not arrived where he is now purely by chance. He has worked his way up the career ladder for the past 10 years and he is well aware that there are those less fortunate than himself.

“I feel so incredibly fortunate, I donʼt know if there are many people around who feel as happy as I do about their job.”

Above: Danʼs the man.

S PORTING S PIRITS

Contact

Beach Road, Sandymount Crofton Place, Dun Laoghaire

Tel: 668 6011 Tel: 280 0341

www.crawfords.ie Some of the participants who took part in Multi Sports day at Ringsend Park.

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

PAGE 9

M ARIAN C OLLEGE 1954 – 2004

By Rose Hogan

T

his year Marian College proudly celebrates 50 years teaching in Irish second-level education. On 8th September 1954 its doors opened

to the first students offering them and their families an approach to education which instils faith, culture and harmony in young people from all walks of life.

Located by the River Dodder and nestled in its own leafy surroundings, Marian College has

been responsible for the transformation of so many young boys into fine young men throughout the years.

The academic programme aims at the highest standards while the College also provides a wide range of physical, social and cultural programmes in keeping with its mission. The College motto is ʻOptimum Optareʼ which means ʻthe pursuit of excellenceʼ.

Over the years Marian College has reached a very high standard of academic success, and is particularly proud of the happy, disciplined and caring environment which has always been the hallmark of the College.

A keen interest in sport is encouraged and this year proved to be a very rewarding one with the Senior Gaelic football team winning the Dublin Championships and becoming the Leinster Championship Finalists. The

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Senior Basketball team also had reason to celebrate when they won the All Ireland Basketball championships.

The College was opened by the Marist Brothers, who originated more than 200 years ago in a little village in the south-east of France. A young country boy named Marcellin Champagnat who tended his sheep under the slopes of Mount Pilat without the advantages of an education dreamed of becoming a priest.

Later he dedicated his life to the establishment of a congregation of teaching Brothers who would give to hundreds of thousands throughout the world, the educational advantages he himself did not have.

He opened the first school in May 1818, and despite many

setbacks and disappointments throughout the years Marcellin remained enthusiastic and his interest in the progress of the institute remained undiminished into the last year of his life. Marist communities are now established in 74 countries around the world.

Marcellin Champagnat passed away on June 6th 1840. He was proclaimed Blessed by Pope Pius XII on May 29th 1955, and was canonised on April 18th 1999. ʻThe Heart That Knows No Boundsʼ was written by Ned Prendergast a former teacher at Marian College and tells the story of Marcellinʼs life.

A special 50th anniversary mass will take place at 12 noon in the Star of the Sea Church on 2nd October.

At St. Matthew’s

At St. Matthewʼs Church, Irishtown, Rev. Ted Ardis is pictured with members of the congregation. Rev. Ardis recently celebrated 25 years ordination as a priest in the Church of Ireland by singing in plainsong 150 psalms. See page 20.

PAGE 10

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004 my friend Jessica was in the Baka tribe. We all had a great time and I hope Ciara comes again

By Sinead OʼKeefe

A T RIP TO A FRICA IN R INGSEND L IBRARY

T

he children had a day off school on 3rd June and they were at Ringsend Library at 10am waiting for the ʻTrip to Africaʼ workshop. When Ciara McParland arrived in her colourful clothes, a drum under her arm and a wonderful smile, she got a great welcome. Here are some comments from Sinead OʼKeefe

and George Murray: On Thursday I went to an African workshop in Ringsend Library. A girl called Ciara brought us on an imagination trip to the Rainforest. We played a game called ʻevil witch doctorʼ.

It was fun, but it was hard too.

We also learned how to play the djembe drum. It

looks really easy but it is really hard and nearly everyone could not do it. Ciara was very good at the djembe but I wasnʼt.

When we first came Ciara put us into two tribes. One was called the Pygmy tribe and the other one was called the Baka tribe.

My friend Kelly and I were in the Pygmy tribe and

I went to the African Workshop with Ciara McParland. We imagined we went to Africaʼs rainforest. I got taught to sing African songs and we played the djembe, and the djembe is made with animal skin, rope and wood.

They carve the wood with stones.

They hunt down animals with spears, rocks and arrows. They take off the skin and use it as clothes, and they use smoke signals to contact people. The Africans eat animals and plants leaves and bugs.

They get bit by snakes and other animals. You have to be quiet in the forest. You get crushed by hippos and they knock down villages.

By George Murray

Carmelite Community Centre Citizens Information Centre (Beside Whitefriar St Church) Aungier Street

New Citizens Information Centre to open on Tuesday 10th August 2004 from 10am to 1pm.

Citizens Information Centres have access to up-to-date information on all matters of public concern, e.g. Health, Social Welfare, Taxation, Housing, Consumer Affairs, and other matters including information on local organizations and services CARMELITE CITIZENS INFORMATION CENTRE(CIC) IS STAFFED BY TRAINED INFORMATION PROVIDERS. WE PROVIDE A FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL SERVICE, All information is up to date and accurate.

The service will be open every Tuesday For further information please contact 014053760/4754673 Supported and funded by Comhairle.

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

PAGE 11

Credit Where it’s Due!

Vacancy for Part-time Child Care Worker in Ringsend Creche This is a Community Employment position and applicants should be eligible for CE. Further enquiries to Ann Ingle 6673317/0876771724

Michael Byrne would like to announce that he has acquired the

Golden Apple Vegetable Shop in Sandymount Village.

Michael would like to thank Paddy Doyle for all the years he has served in the community and wish him all the best on his retirement.

SANDYMOUNT CREDIT UNION presented St Patrickʼs Football Club, Ringsend with sets of monogrammed track suits for their three soccer teams.

St Patrickʼs this year took over the Cambridge Boys Club under 17s. To bring their extended squad to peak fitness they have hired additional all-weather training facilities at the new Irishtown Stadium.

Sandymount Credit Union and St Patrickʼs share a common bond in that they are both run by dedicated volunteers who are willing give their time and talents for the good of the local community.

Above: Michael Whelan (Treasurer) Sandymount Credit Union, Patrick Healy, Derek Bowden, Paul Behan, Thomas Behan of St Patrickʼs Football Club.

The Oarsman

C ONGRATULATIONS AND C OMMISERATIONS

By John Hobson

W

e here at News Four would like to offer our warmest congratulations to the successful candidates in the recent Local and European elections and our commiserations to those who did not quite make it, good luck in the future!

It was an interesting and enthralling election with quite a few surprising results for the major parties which hopefully will motivate our elected officials

to do all they can for their constituents and fulfil their election promises. Another bright spot to come from the election was the increase in voter turnout on a national level.

In the Local Elections the six councillors elected were: Pembroke: Lucinda Creighton (Fine Gael), Dermot Lacey (Labour) and Wendy Hederman (Progressive Democrats) South East Inner City: Kevin Humphreys (Labour), Daithi Doolan (Sinn Fein) and Garry Keegan (Fianna Fail) Over the next five years these

councillors will be part of setting the policy agenda for the whole city and in particular the South East Area and we wish them all the best in doing so.

In the European Elections the four candidates for Dublin elected were: Gay Mitchell (Fine Gael), Eoin Ryan (Fianna Fail), Proinseas De Rossa (Labour) and Mary Lou McDonald (Sinn Fein).

Special congratulations must go to Eoin Ryan who is one of our local TDs and we wish him all the best on his new European position.

Bridge Street, Ringsend Telephone: 668 9360

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PAGE 12

Parent and Baby/ Toddler Groups Parent and Baby/Toddler Groups are great outlets for parents and children to interact with each other.

They are very useful for finding out information regarding things to do in the area, reputations of créches, playschools and schools. Meeting with other parents helps build a new parentʼs confidence that what theyʼre doing or going through is normal. They are particularly helpful for people who are new to an area and perhaps donʼt have family around.

At these groups, parents take it in turns to organise the room, tea and coffee. The children will then play with some of the toys there and with any luck they will eventually learn some social skills to enable them to play with one another! There is usually some nursery rhyme singing so both young and old can learn some songs and the accompanying actions.

The Sandymount Parent and Toddler group meets behind Star of the Sea Church on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings between 10.30am and noon. On Thursdays they also meet at the same time for parents and babies. There is a waiting list for these so if you are interested contact one of the following local public health nurses who are best contacted before 11 am: Patricia Dolan in Ringsend (6683897), Ann Larkin in Baggot Street (6606997) and Margaret Donovan in Donnybrook (2698997).

The €1.50 that is collected each morning goes towards insurance, tea, coffee and biscuits. The use of the room on these mornings is given by the local parish council.

There is another Parent and Toddler group that meets in the Pembroke Library on Thursdays from 10.30–11.30am. There are jigsaws and books to be played with, and again, this provides valuable interaction time. This morning is free, but there is no tea, coffee or biscuits and no nappy changing facilities.

Baby and Me Doing the most boring things have become interesting of late as Little Sunshine adds her special twist to everything we do. Sometimes itʼs just a funny walk or dance as weʼre going down the street. Other times she makes up a song about things that are going on around her, tells me itʼs my song and asks “You like that one Mammy?” Of course I love my song, so then she sings me other ones.

The latest one has been about her using her potty and its contents– “Poo-poo, wee-wee in my potty,” she sings before giggling. Wonderful, until whoever is beside us at the supermarket figures out what sheʼs singing and in turn they laugh which is just the extra attention she needs to continue in a louder fashion! Then in further acts of utter freedom of spirit (or award winning acting) she twirls and spins around and jumps and skips. All

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004 this entertainment, itʼs fantastic!

I have to admit these are the good days. There are other days with scenes taken exactly from ʻThe terrible twos– a toddlers guideʼ that all children must secretly be given lessons in. Frequently this irrationality is as we near the end of the shopping and are queuing. I suppose there are more people watching then so itʼs better for her, but Iʼm sure those people are counting their blessings that sheʼs with me!

I know the election was a while ago now but I have to say I was so very thankful when the election posters were gone as throughout the campaign I was getting an earful of “Thereʼs the picture of the lady” or “Thereʼs the picture of the man”. If it had gone on much longer I may have had to tell sunshine their names and party just for some variety, but she really is too young for politics just yet, so thankfully weʼve avoided that scene for this year!

Of course I was tempted to say to her that, yes I know what the picture is, thank you very much. I refrained and focused instead on her wonderful command of language and how she managed to put all those words together in a way that actually made sense. Not bad for a two year old. I studied French for five years in school and still my sentences didnʼt always make as much sense!

We went to the seaside recently in the southwest. We spent one sunny afternoon building sandcastles on the beach, well, by build I mean I built one and she stood on it. I built another; she stood on that, so eventually I decided weʼd bury each otherʼs feet instead. The sound of the waves was very enticing so I thought weʼd take a stroll down to the waterʼs edge and go for a paddle. Thatʼs where it ended though!

Iʼm not sure which scared her more; it could have been the freezing cold water, the sound of the waves or the strange feeling underfoot when the sand is being dragged back into the sea so that you begin to sink. I had expected my little sunshine to take to the water like a mermaid. She is so brave with so many things; sheʼs great with heights and going fast and upside down and so on, so I just expected this to go smoothly too.

I think her imagination may have got the better of her though, she probably thought the ground was swallowing her! The result of this was that she not only had to come up into my arms, she wouldnʼt even allow me to wade along the waterʼs edge with her clinging to me like glue. There was no way I could pry her from my neck until we were at a very safe distance up in the dunes and I had promised the waves wouldnʼt come up where we were.

Back in Dublin the sea really is very different without the crashbang-boom of the waves but for the moment weʼre going to keep practising for next time at the beach down in Clare. We may yet have a paddle before the summer ends!

Mother and Child Profile Profile– Margarita Gruber

By Nicola McMahon

F

or the last few issues I have profiled mothers and their children who are now living locally to see just how they have integrated into the area, eventually becoming ʻlocalsʼ themselves.

Although, unless you are born and bred in an area you will always be a ʻblow-inʼ to those who need to have known your great grandmother!

Name: Margarita Gruber Daughterʼs Name: Kate Gruber Walsh Daughterʼs Age: 22 months Where are you from?

Iʼm from Madrid.

How long have you lived here?

I have lived in Ireland seven years, but Iʼm only in Ringsend two months.

Why did you move here?

Ringsend suited for getting to work.

I work in Accounts, although I studied fashion in Madrid.

Do you like living here and why?

Yes, I really like living here. Itʼs like a little village or close community which is different to some other places in Dublin.

What differences do you find between home and here for bringing up your daughter?

Well, I tried to move back to Madrid last September but I only managed one month. This is because it is very difficult to find a job there, and if you do it doesnʼt always pay enough to cover both childcare and an apart-

O UTINGS

FOR THE

By Nicola McMahon

S

ummer time and the living is easy– well, it could be easier if there was something to do with our lively and energetic children.There are a number of outings that are suitable for toddlers, and many of them are practically at your doorstep.

If the weather is dry at all, pack a picnic and try any of these places as an alternative to Sandymount Strand.

At least being outdoors means plenty of fresh air and space for burning up energy. To commemorate the outing and to have something to do later, encourage your child to collect a few flowers, leaves, seaweed and other small items of interest that can be stuck into a scrap book.

If you regularly go the park you might consider pointing out how things change throughout the year, how the leaves change colour in the autumn and how buds appear in the spring and so on.

Ringsend Park is great to walk around with a stroller as it is quite large. It is also useful for children to ride safely on their bikes and, of course, older children can go on roller blades under supervision.

Herbert Park has an excellent enclosed playground, which is great for safety and keeping dogs out. Another bonus for this playground is the fact that there are picnic tables, the area is clean and there are quite a few things to play on. Across the road in the other part of the park there are ducks to be fed.

Sean Moore Park is nice for a short stroll, and then if you feel like going further you can carry on to the nature trail. However, going with a stroller can get difficult the further you go unless you have one of those three-wheeled joggers with suspension that can cope with rougher terrain! The surroundings are really special, and you could always point out the wildlife and different wildflowers.

Booterstown Park is good for a

ment. Also, over there you have to organise your life around where you get a job which isnʼt always possible. Here there are more jobs and you can usually get a place to live and childcare relatively close to your job. However, Madrid has nicer weather for children to play outside a lot. Then you can make better use of the parks.

What things do you like to do here with Kate? I like to go swimming.

We used to go more when I lived in Blanchardstown because we went to the National Aquatic Centre. I also like going to the parks and travelling around Ireland when we can.

C HILDREN

nice long walk by the sea and has a lovely playground area.

The National Botanic Gardens cover a total area of 19.5 hectares and contain a large plant collection outside and in the glasshouses. This place is great for a picnic, although only the keenest of mini-gardeners will be interested in the plants. Most kids like the pond with the goldfish, though. The Gardens are in Glasnevin, Dublin 9 and further details can be obtained from 8377596/8374388.

Airfield Trust, Dundrum, is a great place to visit as there are cows and calves, a mare and a foal, sheep, goats, ducks, hens and beautiful flowers and gardens. There is also a picnic area, shop, outdoor cafe and indoor tearooms (probably not the best idea for very young children unless it starts raining!) Opening times are 11am–5pm through Tuesday–Sunday, from April 2–September 29. Admission charges are now €4 for adults, €2 for children, and €3 for concessions. Season tickets are €40.

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

PAGE 13

100 Y EARS OF T ENNIS C LAREMONT R AILWAY LTC C ELEBRATES ITS C ENTENARY IN 2004

By David Keenahan

C

laremont Railway LTC was originally two separate clubs existing side by side, which merged to form one club in 1982. The facilities are now excellent and are enjoyed by an active membership of nearly 300. Many members live locally in Sandymount, but many also come from all over Dublin.

The Club is proud to be one of the few still providing real grass courts for lawn tennis. The enjoyment of playing on a real lawn on a summerʼs day with a gentle sea breeze has to be experienced to be truly appreciated.

Many a happy childhood was spent in this little oasis in suburban Dublin. Many a romance began at the tennis club dance that Railway Union and Claremont LTC were famous for in bygone years.

Some players went on to representative honours including Davis Cup tennis. Others players went on to be famous at other sports like Ronnie Delaney, who won an Olympic Gold Medal in Melbourne in 1958.

The facilities include six grass courts, five all-weather courts (omni-court pro), floodlighting, pavilion with bar. Members participate in a wide range of events, from the competitive to the social.

One member, Michael Crowe, has won the Club championship on seventeen occasions (a feat not likely to be rivalled by many).

The Douglas family has another distinction: Clive, now in his twenties, won the Menʼs Singles Championship that his father, Paul won in 1970 and his grand-father also won in the 1940s.

The Club championships on grass take place in August each year, culminating in the competitive and social highlight of the season– the Club ʻAt Homeʼ. Thursday night American tournaments in summer and coaching programmes at intervals through the season are just a few of the many activities for members.

There is an active Junior membership, offering great recreational opportunities under supervision throughout those long summer holidays from school. Summer camps for children are organized in the club

by Claire Kirwan (086-8120886).

The Club is proud to be associated with the success of the local primary schools in the Schools Tennis Leagues.

Membership is open and very affordable and offers the added attraction of a range of other sports (including Rugby, hockey, cricket,

100 Y EARS OF C RICKET IN P ARK A VENUE

soccer, bowls) in Railway Union for a little extra.

Enquiries regarding membership may be made to Ms. Cariosa Kearns Ph: 2983364.

Top right, left to right: Robert Collins, President of Claremont Railway LTC, Clive Douglas, Club

Champion in 2000 and Michael Crowe who has won the Menʼs Singles Championship 17 times.

Below, left to right: Tadgh Kennelly, David Fassbender, Derek Collins and Peter Witke, finalists in the Menʼs Doubles Championship at Claremont Railway LTC.

Beach Road Tyre Services (Rear Kilroy College)

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FREE FITTING A Cricket Week took place recently at Railway Union, celebrating 100 years of cricket in Park Avenue.

Shown above is popular Railway Bar Manager, Brendan Boland (second right) getting some last minute advice on the finer points of the game.

ALL WORK DONE WHILE-U-WAIT Open 6 Days a Week • Phone 6683805

PAGE 14

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

T HESE B OOTS WERE MADE FOR W ALKING !

By Maggie Neary

A

lmost every Sunday I head off into the Wicklow hills with walking boots and water to hand and a healthy supply of clothes for all weathers.

A few weeks ago I became quite worried when a protest organised by a group of walkers in the Enniskerry area against what they saw as an impingement of a local right of way brought media attention to not only that specific event, but also to the whole area of so-called rights of way and access routes.

Access routes seem to be those sections of walks which may pass through private land. I like to walk without fear of being somewhere I am not supposed to

be. I decided to set my mind to rest that I was not heading into a summer season of walking with nowhere much to walk.

The Mountaineering Council of Ireland (MCI) is the national representative body for hill walking, climbing and rambling.

I spoke with their Development Officer and gained much comforting information.

It appears that this access issue has always been with us and may indeed always be with us.

The legalities around all of this are too baffling for this particular layperson to attempt to explain.

The MCI emphasises that it respects the farmerʼs rights to own private property and to earn a living from it and also believes that a co-operative approach is the best way forward in all ef-

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forts to satisfy the farmersʼ needs and to also achieve reasonable access to the countryside.

To date, the many access routes in place have been established only with the goodwill of the owners and it is of the utmost importance that the public using these routes should remember that they are passing through property no less private

than their own back garden and show due respect for that.

A countryside council, Comhairle na Tuaithe, has been established by the Government to address the difficulties that may be created by the ever-increasing numbers of recreational users.

The members of this Council are made up of recreational users, landowners, tourism pro-

moters, sports people and environmentalists. They consult with each other on such issues as the need for a sustainable approach to be taken in the management and development of all related resources, ensuring that rural communities see the benefit from this increased use of the countryside and providing a forum for resolving disputes in relation to access.

Within the Irish Republic, there are already five National Parks with public access to almost all open land. We have 32 national waymarked trails. Waymarked trails have posts by the sides of the walkways pointing in the direction it is best to take and these ways total 3,300 kilometres.

To access information about the waymarked trails use their excellent website at www. walkireland.ie, where you will also find advice on safety, countryside code and contacts and links. Information about walking in Northern Ireland can be found on www.countrysiderecreation.com and for information on the MCI see www.mountaineering.ie which also has a list of walking clubs.

People who like to become involved at a different level might consider doing volunteer work with an organisation like Mountain Meitheal, who repair erosion damage caused by walkers and climbers. Their website is www. pathsavers.org and includes a calendar of their activities.

Above: A Summerʼs day near Lough Dan, Co. Wicklow.

Y OUTH A WARD W INNERS

At the Youth Recognition Awards in Ringsend Community Centre, left to right: Sarah Mullen, Alison Rooney (Youth Leader), Carly Mitchell, Aisling Wickes, Breda Murphy, Nikita Nulty, Cllr Kevin Humphreys, Stephanie Mitchell, Natasha Moylan and Wesley McGrath (Youth Leader).

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

PAGE 15

Y OGA W ARM - UPS I

By Nicola McMahon

tʼs been a while since the last issue, and Iʼm sure everyone has been practising his or her yoga postures in the heat of the glorious sun, oh yeah, that beautiful weather is just in my imagination!

I am going to introduce a couple more warm-ups and then, still staying with the cat pose, I will give further variations that can lead onto the first warrior pose, which is very useful for opening the front of the body, especially the groin area. It is a very energising posture but people with heart problems or high blood pressure or heavily pregnant women should not raise the arms over the head.

Always remember that warming up is important for the body to be able to achieve postures safely and comfortably. Never go further than is comfortable for you, be especially aware of any injuries and get a doctorʼs approval to continue if necessary.

Warm-up Stretches: 1. Lying on the ground on your back, slowly stretch your arms up over your head whilst at the same time stretching the legs away from the hips and pointing the toes.

As you breathe out sigh ʻhaaʼ and bring the arms back down to the sides and relax the legs. Repeat.

2. Still lying on your back, bend the knees and place them hip-width apart with the ankles directly under the knees. As you breathe in press the waist into the floor and slightly lift the hips and pelvic area. Hold this for a few seconds, then as you breathe out, roll the hips down and relax. Repeat, then hug the knees to the chest and rock from side to side to gently massage the spine.

Cat Pose Variation 2 * Begin as in variation 1 from the June issue, with shoulders and knees directly under the hips– table position. * Follow the same instructions, however this time in addition to raising the right leg from the floor as high as is comfortable, also slowly raise the opposite arm. * Lift the head and look forward, if this strains your neck in any way, remain looking at the ground. * Hold the pose for as long as is comfortable, then return to the table position and repeat on the other side.

SANDYMOUNT HOME HELP SERVICE

Warrior 1 * Step the feet about 4ft apart and rotate the entire right foot and leg 90º out to the right, then lift the toes of the left foot and swivel it slightly inwards. * Turn the body to the right and try to keep the hips parallel. * Raise the arms to shoulder level with the palms facing upwards then bring them overhead keeping them shoulder width apart * Bend the right knee and lower the body as far as is comfortable, first making sure that the knee is a straight line above the ankle. (This protects the knee joint.) * Keep the shoulders relaxed and lift the chest upwards. * If you have no neck problems you can look up at the ceiling, otherwise remain looking to the front. * Breathing in, come out of the posture and turn to the centre before repeating on the other side. To relax, stand with feet together then bend forward slowly from the hip joints (at the top of your legs) keeping the front of the body long. When you have reached as far as is comfortable for you, place your hands wherever they reach on your legs or the floor and relax the head and neck for a few breaths.

F UNDRAISING D RIVE FOR D EBRA I RELAND

SHAY DOYLE watched a television programme on Channel 4 ʻThe Boy Whose Skin Fell Offʼ and was so moved by what he saw that he wanted to help. He found out that 1 in every 18,000 newborn children in Ireland are affected by Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) a distressing and painful genetic skin disorder causing skin layers and internal body linings to separate and blister at the slightest touch. EB can be fatal in early childhood.

Shay got in touch with Debra Ireland which is the charity researching the disease and they told him that they were organising Trek Mexico 2004 to raise much-needed funds. Shay and his friend Frankie King decided that they would try to raise the sponsorship money of €3,400 each for this very worthy cause. The trip to Mexico takes place in November 2004 and they need help to raise funds.

Sponsorship cards can be obtained from Shay at RDRD (6677666).

They would appreciate any fund-raising ideas that would help them in their mission to help the research done by Debra Ireland. Please telephone Ann Ingle at 6673317 if you feel you can help them reach their target. We will let you know how near they are to their goal in the next edition of NewsFour. More information about EB can be found on www.debraireland.org, telephone 6776855.

R INGSEND R EGATTA R OWERS R ELAX

Do you have two to four hours free every week and would you like to earn some extra money?

We pay you €10.23 per hour (gross) to visit and care for vulnerable elderly in the community For further information, phone Brenda Dempsey at 087- 9292119

At St Patrickʼs Rowing Club: Ken Cunningham, Damien Jenkins, Philip Murphy and Brian Dunphy took part in the Regatta dedicated to Thomas Murphy RIP.

PAGE 16

By Nicola McMahon

D

ublin Zoo membership is a great idea for a birthday or Christmas gift.

Once you are a member there is a yearʼs free admission to both here and Fota Wildlife Park, Cork. Other advantages include discounts on summer camps and childrenʼs events.

Both summer and winter opening times are 9.30a.m. Monday to Saturday and 10.30a.m. on Sunday but winter closing is at dusk whereas in summer it is 6p.m.

The last admission is one hour before closing time and the African Plains and Houses close at 5.30p.m.

If you are tired by the time you get to the African Plains, then you can go on the Nakuru Safari Train so that you can see the animals and hear some interesting information from the guide. The last trip is usually around 3p.m.

The best times to see animals is usually when they are being fed, so bearing this in mind it is often useful to phone beforehand to check the ʻMeet the Keeperʼ times. At the moment there are many ʻbabyʼ animals in the zoo.

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

A GRAND DAY OUT AT DUBLIN ZOO

A firm favourite with most children is Lucy, the baby chimpanzee who is being hand-reared because her mother didnʼt know how. Lucy is usually in the chimpanzee house enjoying the attention of her adoring fans. There are also three playful tiger cubs to be seen and a relatively new sea lion pup.

A map is given upon entry to the zoo, so after gathering the facts, you might plan your day around the most enticing exhibits or the animals your child already recognizes and loves. You can also plan where you will stop to eat, although there is no shortage of picnic spots. In general, opt to view the bigger or more active

animals which are easier for little children to see– some that sit way up in tree branches or lizards that are too well camouflaged and donʼt move may not catch their attention.

It can be useful to introduce pictures of animals found in a zoo beforehand to help them understand what it is they are seeing

on the day and therefore make it more exciting.

By continuing to talk about the zoo, the experience can live on long after you leave. Questions like “What was your favourite animal?” or “Which animal had the funniest ears/nose?” and reading stories with animals they have seen will help children understand, remember, and most importantly learn.

If your child is inclined to ask lots of questions, it might be useful to have a pen and a piece of paper so you can find out the answers later. It is also important that if you have a slight phobia about an animal or reptile, that you at least try to hide these fears so as not to pass this fear on. Maybe someone else can go see the bats with your child while you go to the toilet!

Many parents and children spend much of their time at the many play areas, so by the end of a day at the zoo toddlers are usually exhausted. Membership is useful for this reason too– you donʼt feel you have to fit everything into one day.

Dublin Zoo, Phoenix Park: 01 4748900, http://www.dublinzoo.ie

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

PAGE 17

G ONE , G ONE

By George P Kearns

T

wo well-known Dublin landmarks are gone, and I would believe almost forgotten, both of which were prominent features of the Dockland Area. One was situated on the Northside of the River Liffey and the other on the Southside.

Gone: The first to go was the 100 Ton Crane that was sited on the North Wall Quay Extension. The erection of this crane took place in 1904 and in July 1905 it began operations, and there it stood and worked for some 81 years.

One of its last jobs was the unloading of the Dart carriages in the early nineteen eighties, and in 1986 the crane was decommissioned and some time later demolished.

What a sad ending for one of Dublinʼs famous landmarks.

Pictured above is the 100 Ton Crane being tested in 1905 and note the beautiful sailing ships in the background

AND

Gone: The second, of course was the joint gasholder , known to one and all as ʻThe Gasometerʼ.

This structure dominated the Dublin Skyline for many years from where it stood proudly in the grounds of the Alliance and Dublin Consumers Gas Company at the corner of Sir John Rogersonʼs Quay and Cardiff Lane.

This gasholder was built in 1934 and demolished in 1993.

It may have been demolished a

R INGSEND MISSION HALL PHOTO (C .1955)

G OING

little earlier were it not for the arrival of two Peregrine Falcons that decided to nest on the roof of the Gasometer for a while.

What a pity they didnʼt take up permanent residence there.

Pictured below is the Gasometer. I believe the Peregrine Falcons were in residence when I took this picture.

On the right is Misery Hill which was blocked with large pipes, heaps of rubble and litter of all descriptions. Gone too is this street and this is probably the last view of Misery Hill in its original state.

Going or What?

The Hailing Station. Another well-known River Liffey landmark, which today is in total ruin.

This building which served the Docklands Area well, is now a listed building according to the Dublin Draft Development Plan, and if the powers that be donʼt take it in hand soon, it will be reduced to a pile of rubble and possibly end up in the Liffey, that is if some of it has not already en-

Do you want to get FIT?

By Grainne McGuinness Do you want to get fit? No, not the running, jogging or aerobic fit but the fast track to information technology kind of fit.

I recently took a three-week taster course to update my computer skills in Ringsend Tech. In the three short weeks they covered word processing, desk top publishing, Excel, basic PC maintenance and communications.

It has been four years since I did IT exams and not having the need or the opportunity to use most of these programmes I thought I would have forgotten them. It was amazing how quickly it all came back to me with the help and support from teachers Maura Walsh, Marie Kilbride and Sean Keogh. They made learning so easy and succeeded in getting me up to speed with the latest IT applications.

If you are interested in doing a FIT course, which is a full-time programme running from September to June, you can contact Ringsend Technical Institute (Tel: 6684499) or FIT Ltd on 8571474. The course is free and available to persons over 21 years of age who qualify under any number of categories including over six months unemployed, lone parents, etc.

Back to School 1941 IN OUR february issue we published a school photo from 1941.

We received a call from John OʼReilly, pictured here as a nipper. He says he was being restrained by teacher Mr. Roy as he wanted to join his friends at the front of the group!

John also won a CYMS competition to sing on Radio Éireann about this time. He wondered if a recording of his singing existed.

It may seem a long shot, but you never know what our readers can come up with!

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Some of the people included in the photo are: Joyce and Evelyn OʼByrne, Susan, Ruth and Mary Kenny, Sylvia Wilson, David Archer, Betty Turner, Billy Ellis, Celeste Smith, Bella Turner, Randal Elliot, Jean Elliot, Hazel Elliot, Amy Stewart, Grace Esbey, Dorothy Mullin, Teddy Bradfield, Monty Blay, Hazel Archer, Victor Esbey, Dorothy Turner also Eric, Amy, Moira and Donald Boardman. A special thanks to Joyce Byrne and Alex Colvin, who rang us with more information.

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PAGE 18

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

A FFORDABLE H OUSING

By Frances Corr

D

ublin City Council (DCC) is now inviting applications from persons interested in being considered as purchasers of affordable homes in private residential developments, through part 5 of the Planning and Development Acts 2000-2002.

DCC has established a scheme, which is primarily aimed at first time buyers, but certain limited exceptions may apply. The closing date for completed application forms for the initial list is 4pm on Friday 20th of August 2004.

DCC will compile and regularly update a list of all eligible applicants for part five affordable housing. There are a number of apartment blocks under construction or which have received planning permission to build in the Dublin 2 and 4 area. If you

are interested in these homes and you feel you meet the criteria set down by DCC, phone Lo-call 1850 946506 and register your interest.

Another scheme, which DCC administers, covers newly constructed houses and apartments in areas where prices have created an affordable gap for lower income house purchasers. These properties are sold to eligible purchasers at prices less than actual value. These are available to first-time buyers only.

These units are usually built on land banks owned or acquired by DCC. Examples of these houses are those built in areas such as Ballyfermot and also under the Ballymun regeneration programme. There are also a number of new schemes under consideration and DCC will advertise these schemes in the daily papers when they become available.

In parts of Dublin postal areas 1, 2, 3 and 4, known as the

Docklands area, another form of affordable housing is also available. These housing units will be available under the Dublin Docklands Development Authority (DDDA) section 25 Planning.

The DDDA master plan provides for the development of a minimum of 20% social and affordable units. These homes will be developed over the coming years. These units are available in the developments that have re-

ceived planning permission under section 25.

The loan scheme for the purchase of these units is administered by DCC and the purchaser must meet the DCC criteria for loan approval as well as the DDDA criteria, which is aimed at favouring locals from the Docklands area.

The criteria for allocating these homes is based on a point system which it is hoped will positively

discriminate in favour of local applicants. Points are allocated to those who were born, live and work in the Docklands area.

Those interested in purchasing these homes need to express their interest to the DDDA by contacting the Housing Development Manager Una Merriman at 8183300.

Some of the criteria required

by DCC for loan approval are that the purchaser must be in permanent employment for at least one year prior to application and their income on their current P60 form must be within the limits to meet the loan approval.

Minister of State Mr Noel Ahern announced an improvement to the loan and income limit for shared ownership and affordable housing in July. The maximum loan advanced for local authority house purchase was €130,000 and it has been raised to €165,000.

The eligibility limit for applying for affordable housing and shared ownership schemes has also been reviewed. A single person can now earn up to €36,800 and €92,000 for a two-income household.

The period that DCC can advance loans for is now up to thirty years. Previously the maximum length for the repayment of a loan was 25 years.

T HE G REAT G RAEME P OLLOCK

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A

ccording to batting averages for cricketers to bat 20 times in Tests, Bradmen leads the field but next best is Pollock, at 60.97, from 2256 runs Pollockʼs international career was prematurely terminated by sporting bans placed on South Africa because of apartheid policies of the South African government so it is difficult to access Pollockʼs greatness. At the age of 26, he played the last of his 23 Tests.

Born in Durban on 27th February 1944, he, like his elder brother Peter, was recognised as a fine talent and scored his first hundred at the age of nine playing in the under 11s.

At 19 years 318 days, he became the youngest South African to score a Test Century in the third Test against Australia in Adelaide, having failed to get past 25 in the first two Tests.

But it was in the fourth Test that he made his reputation, join-

ing Eddie Barlow at the wicket when South Africa won 2-70 in reply to 345. Barlow was out for 201 Pollock for 175 and South Africa went on to 595, then their highest-ever innings against Australia.

The debate was whether Gary Sobers, then representing South Australia or Pollock was the more talented and attractive left hander. Sobers hit hard because his back lift was an arc, but Pollock never seemed to lift his bat up (31lbs, almost a pound heavier than the willow Broadman used) and hardly followed through. Bill Lawry (an Australian batsman) called Pollock “the finest dispatcher of a loose ball I have ever seen.”

The cocktail of politics and sport kept South Africa out of world cricket from 1970 to 1992.

Pollock played Corrie Cup cricket in South Africa and occasionally played for World invitation teams. In July 2000, his nephew Shaun, son of Peter, became South African captain and in January 2000 Graeme Pollock

was named South African cricketer of the century.

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

PAGE 19

J IM D RIVER THE

I

B ARBER

By Maggie Neary

stood in Cecilʼs Barbers Shop on Thorncastle Street in Ringsend with the feeling of being in a heritage museum.

Jim Driver, the proprietor and barber proudly pointed to the chairs saying, “those chairs are about 43 years old, hydraulic and still going strong.

I have been standing 55 years at this middle chair. Iʼve always worked the middle chair. Originally, there were only two chairs, the third one is like a spare and they all match up. Yes, I am 55 years seeing people coming and going.”

Jim guides my attention around the shop, which is one of the oldest barbers in Dublin. It is akin to a short, nostalgic but pertinent history of a familyʼs trade and connection with the local community.

A collage mounted on one wall is a dedication to Jimʼs brother, who died in the Vietnam War in 1969. Jim once removed this collage but rehung it on the request of his customers who see it as part of the ʻestablishmentʼ.

A sepia coloured black and white photo of two young boys catches my eye, “Yes,” Jim says, “that was taken way back, they were two local boys and one still comes to have his hair done here.”

Certificates adorn the walls, proof of Jimʼs continuing interest in updating and retraining himself on his customersʼ behalf.

“I try not to change much about the décor of the shop and do only

OF

R INGSEND

gradual improvements so people are not put off.

“I did my first shave at eleven years of age, it was on my father and I had to stand on my schoolbag. I was not much of a scholar, so at fourteen I was taken out of school and started to serve my time with my father right here in this shop, which he had opened in 1939.

I also attended Capel Street Tech for two years, doing gents hairstyling. In the 70s I took fourth place in the All-Ireland Hairdressing Championships in Belfast. I have attended courses in England also, even having two hours one-to-one with the great Vidal Sassoon.

Jim digresses and with a great show of emotion says, “you know, Iʼd like to say that it was through the Ringsend Dockers that I learned my trade. What I mean is that mostly when people go into a barbers they really donʼt want the junior working on them, but the Dockers had faith in me when I was a junior, theyʼd say ʻcome on jemmieʼ and so I was able to build up my experience.

“Ringsend was basically a working class area but now it has switched to being semi residential. A lot of the factories and the boatyards and small engineering works have all departed. We get people from all over, north south, east and west.

People home visiting from America and Canada come into Jimʼs, and they want to know the news. “Iʼm lucky enough I have a good memory and indeed this is the kind of thing that keeps me

going, I have seen people who are very good hairdressers but they did not like that social aspect of it. Itʼs one thing cutting a personʼs hair, itʼs another thing to get them back.

“You have to build up a relationship with the clients. I could bash haircuts out in three or four minutes but thatʼs no good. We keep moving with the times as well as catering for all ages.

The client comes in, you listen to them, they tell you what they want and you do it.

“I had one young lad came into me lately, maybe thirteen. He got out the comb and parted his hair in the middle and says to me ʻI want you to take all that side off and just leave the other side thereʼ, and I said to him ʻWhat?ʼ ʻJust take all that off,ʼ he repeated. So I went straight at it and took all the one side off with the clippers and marvellous, out he goes, happy as Larry”.

Jim laughs saying, “It can be very enjoyable. Our clientele come from all walks of life but clients value privacy and I respect that. The age group of the clients ranges from 9 months to

4 September 2004

ʻKnow your placeʼ, A local history day at Dublin City Library and Archive, Pearse Street.

All are welcome but it is advisable to book in advance (Eithne Massey 6744999, email: eithne.massey@dublincity.ie)

ninety and we do our best for them all.”

I asked what he does in his time off. “I still play golf though Iʼm getting a bit stiff. I have one great secret. I love to get up and listen to the seven or eight oʼclock news and to what they say in the papers. That sets me up for the day with things to talk about.

“So Iʼm still going strong. At the moment I donʼt have any

intentions of retiring, I donʼt think Iʼd like to retire anyway.

I do take things a bit easier but Iʼm always here because people coming in often ask for me, and I see myself being here for a long time to come.”

So if you need a haircut in a nostalgic setting, Jim is waiting for you with just the right mixture of professionalism and chat that helps make a body feel on top of the world.

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PAGE 20

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

ARCHBISHOP WAS SCOURGE OF PRESBYTERIANS

By Andrew Whittaker

T

he archbishop, who built ʻThe Royal Chapel of St Matthewʼ, in order to serve a booming Church of Ireland population in the main port of Dublin 300 years ago, was a scourge of Presbyterians.

Archbishop William King was the son of a Scots Presbyterian family who had emigrated to Co. Antrim. When he left Ulster to study in Trinity College, Dublin, he became a convert to the ʻestablished churchʼ, as the Church of Ireland was then called because the government was behind it.

King retained a Scots accent to the end of his life. It was said to have delayed his promotion, while men with English accents, or at least southern Irish ones, were promoted ahead of him.

About 1688 the Catholic King James II fell out with so many of the wealthy landowners in England that they sent to Holland to invite his Protestant son-in-law to take over the English, Scottish and Irish thrones. There was civil war. One of the people imprisoned in Dublin Castle by Jamesʼs government on the claim that they were spies for the Prince of Orange was Dr. William King. He was let out after the battle of the Boyne, when King James fled to France. A few months later the new King William made William King Bishop of Derry, not just as a reward but because he was one of the most learned men in the church.

In Derry, Dr King sought to convert the Presbyterian majority to Church of Ireland beliefs. It was a tough contest. Even Dr. Kingʼs own father refused to pay tithes (a form of tax) to his sonʼs church.

After twelve years of scourging the

Presbyterians of Derry he was promoted Archbishop of Dublin.

In the capital he set about building churches and appointing clergy to serve the astonishing physical and population explosion of the early 18th century. It was the era of the first Celtic Tiger. He decided that the port was a haunt of people who needed more church services.

Also, it was often cut off from the city by high tides and storms, so it needed its own church. Dr. King got the legal paperwork in order in 1704. It took two years to get all the preliminary works organised and started. He travelled to Ringsend in August 1706 to bless the corner stone of his new church.

Andrew Whittaker is the author of a book of historical essays to commemorate the 300th Anniversary of St Matthewʼs Church. Andrew lives in Sandymount and is a member of the parish vestry. He was the London Editor and Business Editor of the Irish Times. For the last 12 years he has published a journal of business law. The book will be available in local book shops after the launch in the Mount Herbert Hotel on 9th October.

TO

150 P SALMS BENEFIT S TAR OF THE S EA

ON TUESDAY 29th June Rev. Ted Ardis celebrated 25 years ordination as priest in the Church of Ireland by singing in plainsong 150 psalms. Sponsorship raised by this event amounted to over €3,000 and went to the Star of the Sea Church Restoration Fund.

St. Matthewʼs Church hosted this event as part of their programme celebrating 300 years since the foundation of the Church.

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NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

PAGE 21

D UBLIN CAMERA CLUB’ S PHOTO 2004 AT D UBLIN C ITY L IBRARY , P EARSE S TREET

F

ounded in 1945 and based at its own premises at 10 Lower Camden Street, Dublin 2, the Dublin Camera Club is Irelandʼs largest nonprofit making club for amateur photographers. It is funded soley by membersʼ subscriptions and the proceeds of running photographic classes and receives no grants or subsidies.

Every year the club holds an exhibition of membersʼ photo-

graphs. This yearʼs exhibition, Photo 2004 is currently running at the exhibition centre just inside the magnificently renovated Dublin City Library in Pearse Street and will continue until the 22nd August.

The exhibition contains 284 mounted photographs and 84 colour slides, shown continuously and entry is free.

The Camera Club also runs Beginnersʼ Classes, which are

in great demand. These run from 22nd September to 1st December and again from 19th January to 30th March of next year.

Enquiries about joining the Club or taking Beginnersʼ or Advanced Darkroom or Digital Classes, can be made at our regular Tuesday night meetings, beginning at 8.00pm, or by ringing 6624464, or by emailing via our website, www.dublincameraclub.ie

From left: Viewing the photographs at photo 2004 and two colour slide exhibits, ʻUntitledʼ by Sean Gillard, and ʻOld Ladyʼ

by Helen Hanafin.

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PAGE 22

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

THE OLYMPIC GAMES– A BRIEF HISTORY

By Robert C. Diaz

A

thens was the first city to host the Olympic Games in April 1896.

There were only 10 events and athletes came individually, at their own expense wearing their Athletic Club uniforms rather than a National Team one.

In 1900, Paris hosted the Games. The discus and hammer

throwers often found that there wasnʼt enough room to throw so their shot landed in the trees; the hurdles were made out of the broken telephone poles, and the swimming events were conducted in the Seine River.

Four years later, St. Louis (USA) hosted the games. European athletes had to make a transatlantic voyage plus a long train ride to Missouri. No athletes represented England, France and

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Sweden.

London hosted the games in 1908. Britainʼs recent refusal to give Ireland independence caused Irish athletes to boycott the Games. The exact distance of the marathon was established as 26 miles. The Royal Family needed a better view of the finish line, so organizers added an extra 385 yards to the race, so the finish line would be in front of the Royal Box. In 1912 the Games were held in Stockholm and the use of electric timing devices and a public address system were first used at these Olympic Games.

The Olympics stopped for eight years, due to the First World War. In the summer of 1920, Antwerp was the host to restart the Olympic Games. Though Germany, Austria, Bulgaria, Turkey and Hungary were not forbidden to come, they were also not sent an invitation by the Organizing Committee.

In 1924, Paris hosted the Games.

Winter sports were added. Because, of problems determining amateur status, tennis was taken off the list of events after this Olympics and were not readmitted until 1988.

Four years later, the Olympic flame made its debut in the games celebrated in Amsterdam.

It was in 1928 when track-andfield events and gymnastics for women were included. Ireland as an independent nation had its first Olympic gold medal with Dr Pat Oʼ Callaghanʼs victory in the hammer event.

Los Angeles hosted its first Olympics in 1932 and the very first Olympic Village was constructed and the first photo-finish camera was used.

In 1936, Berlin organized the

Games and the Nazis saw the event as a way to promote their ideology. They built four grandiose stadiums, swimming pools, an outdoor theatre, a polo field, and an Olympic Village. These Games were the first ones televised.

In 1948, after World War II, London hosted the very modest eleventh Olympics. No new facilities were built for these Games, but the Wembley Stadium had survived the war and proved adequate. No Olympic Village was erected.

The Soviet Union, after having been out of the Games since 1912, rejoined at the Helsinki Olympics in 1952. Soviet athletes were chaperoned by Soviet officials everywhere they went in an effort to prevent communication with athletes from the West. The Irish welter weight John McNally took a silver medal in boxing.

The 1956 Melbourne Games saw Egypt, Iraq, and Lebanon boycotting the Games to protest at the invasion of Egypt by Israel. The Netherlands, Spain, and Switzerland also boycotted the Games to protest the Soviet Unionʼs invasion of Budapest.

Ireland had a rich harvest of five medals. Ron Delaney was gold medal winner in the 1,500 metres.

The other medals all came in boxing with silver for Fred Tiedt, and bronze for Tony Byrne, Freddie Gilroy and John Caldwell.

In the summer of 1960 Italy opened the fourteenth Games.

Abebe Bikila of Ethiopia won the gold medal in the marathon with bare feet. Cassius Clay, later known as Muhammad Ali, won a gold medal in light heavyweight boxing. These were the first Olympics to be fully covered by television.

Tokyo celebrated its Olympics in 1964. These Games were marred by the absence of Indonesia, North Korea, and South Africa, which was banned from participating in the Olympic Games because of its of apartheid.

Only ten days before the 1968 Olympic Games were to open, the Mexican army surrounded a group of students who were protesting against the Mexican government at the Plaza of Three Cultures and opened fire into the crowd.

In June 1972 the Olympic Games came to Munich. These

Games will probably be best remembered for the murder of eleven Israeli Olympians. Mark Spitz (US) dominated the swimming events and won seven gold medals.

In 1976 the Olympics took place in Montreal. These Games were marred by boycotts and drug allegations. Most of the allegations were not proven. The East German women swimmers were accused of using anabolic steroids.

The 1980 Olympic Games in Moscow were most notable for the largest boycott of an Olympics in history. Following the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in December 1979, the United States and 61 other countries decided to boycott the Olympics.

The Soviets, in retaliation for the US boycott of the 1980 Olympic Games, boycotted the 1984 Olympics celebrated in Los Angeles. Along with the Soviet Union, East Germany, and Cuba, fourteen other countries boycotted the Games. Hugh Russell won a silver medal in boxing for Ireland.

North Korea boycotted the Seoul Games in 1988. The amateur rule, which had plagued athletes and officials alike since the beginning of the Olympic Games, was finally overturned in 1986.

This new rule allowed tennis to return to the Olympic Games.

In 1992, Barcelona hosted the first Olympic Games in three decades without a boycott. Also it was the first time since 1964 Germany competed as a unified country. South Africa also rejoined the Games having eliminated apartheid. The Dubliner Michael Carruth became the first Irishman to win an Olympic gold medal in boxing.

1996 saw Atlanta hosting the Games. 10,000 athletes participated, representing 197 countries.

The last millennium Olympics were held in Sidney in 2000.

They were the largest Games, with 10,651 athletes competing in 300 events.

Pictured above: Jesse Owens of the USA severely puntured Nazi notions of racial superiority by winning yet another of his four gold medals in the 1936 Berlin Olympics.

(This article appears in full on www.news4.ie)

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

PAGE 23

T HE D ON B AKER P HILOSOPHY I

By Nicola McMahon

met Don Baker, Irelandʼs renowned musician, songwriter, actor and author in the rather informal setting of a small pub as he suggested. Having read ʻThe Winner in Me– Don Bakerʼs Storyʼ by Jackie Hayden, in which all the different types of therapy he has gone through to overcome alcoholism are documented, I am surprised at the choice of a pub for our meeting.

He tells me “I didnʼt drink for sixteen years. I was suffering from depression and I was drinking very heavily because of depression. I spent years and years in therapy and I finally discovered that my problem wasnʼt with alcohol. Alcohol was a symptom of the depression, a manifestation of my panic attacks. I labelled myself an alcoholic for a long time, but I have to watch my step. I only drink a pint or two of Guinness these days.”

Don was born 26th August 1950 and lived his first years in Whitehall, Dublin. His father and mother had a turbulent relationship and his father was an alcoholic.

He went to hospital at the age of seven because he contracted TB and here he met a harmonica player who taught him the basics.

He spent much of his youth in and out of prison and institutions. It was during his last time in jail that he began to learn the guitar from Jeweller Roe, another prisoner, on a plastic toy guitar that he put strings on using catgut from a tennis racket.

A good friend introduced Don to the blues while he was living in the Corporation Buildings. He spent the next ten years travelling and playing the blues across Europe. It was during this time that he began drinking excessively until, years later, he finally sought help.

In 1979 he was asked by the ʻLate Late Showʼ to write a song about inner city Dublin sung by ʻThe Jolly Beggarmenʼ which went to number 2 in the Irish charts.

Nowadays Bono regards him as “the greatest harmonica player in the world” and Charlie McCoy described him as “the best rock and blues harmonica player.”

Don always seems to have something on the go so it comes as no surprise when he tells me, “Iʼve been studying piano for four years– I started when I was fifty.

Iʼm up to grade three now. I enjoy it immensely– lately I discovered the musician Debussy and he just blows my mind. Itʼs very humbling to listen to someone like him. It makes you realise how much you donʼt know.”

His time is constantly occupied with acting, practising, writing songs and music books. He is the author of several instruction books on the harmonica, which are distributed around the world in several languages in addition to five teaching videos.

He also adjudicates bi-annually at the World Harmonica Championships in the blues category. He says the reason for his demanding schedule is, “Iʼve got this craving for learning. Itʼs why I read so much and write so much. Itʼs just I have this thing in me– I donʼt know what it is but Iʼm happiest when Iʼm learning something.”

“The root of us humans is the spirit” Donʼs honesty in response to questions about his music surprises me. “Itʼs strange for me to say this, being involved in music, but I donʼt like the music business because music is the last thing the business is about. Itʼs about hype and glamour, I mean Iʼve been to Hollywood but I couldnʼt stand the place. I auditioned with people like Gene Hackman and Den-

zil Washington.” Don obviously wasnʼt impressed by these Hollywood superstars.

Don has been entertaining audiences all over the world for nearly 35 years so he has finally reached a point of contentment with his many accomplishments. “Iʼm fifty-four. Iʼm not craving notoriety or fame and Iʼm not materialistic.

If Iʼve enough money to get me through the week Iʼm as happy as Larry.

“Iʼve no financial ambitions. I sell albums going from gig to gig and I have my own record company so Iʼm under no pressure to record. It took a lot of years to get to this point: in the beginning I made albums that I was told to make because it was the right thing to do and I went along with it.”

His acting career commenced after he played the part of Joe McAndrew (head of the IRA) opposite Daniel Day-Lewis in Jim Sheridanʼs ʻIn the Name of the Fatherʼ. He has since played parts in other films such as ʻMysticsʼ and ʻOn the Noseʼ with Robbie Coltrane and Dan Ackryod.

His first television soap role was in ʻFair Cityʼ where he played gangster Thomas Flynn. “I enjoyed the first few films I did but then after that it got boring. Thereʼs no organisation on most sets, itʼs just a bit ridiculous.”

He tells me about one movie where he had to be on location.

“I had to get up every morning

at 5 am and hang around the set all day long and then finally at 7 pm that evening I did a walk-by scene. When you are actually doing scenes itʼs brilliant. Waiting around is a nightmare. I like to act and I think Iʼm a good actor.”

The fame that goes with his career bothers Don most though. “I canʼt go anywhere, not just in this country. I was in Africa last year for the month of January and I was walking down the beach when this guard said to me, “Papa from Hollywood.” Thatʼs in Africa: imagine what itʼs like in America.

“I love people, I love conversation and I donʼt mind signing autographs. The difficulty with the fame thing is that people donʼt realise they are interviewing you.

Theyʼre not having a conversation with you. Life is like one constant interview. It is hard to cope with sometimes. I find it hard to get a bit of peace. No matter where I go there will always be somebody.”

On ʻStates of Fearʼ, the documentary detailing Irelandʼs industrial schools, Don spoke about the horrific abuse he and others suffered at the hands of the Catholic religious order running the notorious Daingean institution in Co.Offaly.

Don Baker may not be inclined towards religion, but he is interested in the spiritual aspect of life, as he says himself, “You would have to be pretty arrogant to deny Godʼs presence, and Iʼm not even religious. I donʼt go to Church and Iʼm not part of any persuasion. I think people need to understand the difference between religion and

spirituality. If you want to water a plant you donʼt water the leaves, you water the root. The root of us humans is the spirit.”

“I donʼt think there is any such thing as death. Not only do I lean towards reincarnation, but also I think that, on a real practical level, we could be being reincarnated every week. A miracle is just a shift in perception– itʼs not like the river opening up or a mountain falling down or Lourdes or any of that kind of thing. But there are miracles happening all the time. A miracle really is a shift in perceiving what is correct for you.

Everything around us started with a thought, thatʼs what the Bible means by “the word became flesh.” I studied all this stuff and whatever sat well with me, I bought it and whatever didnʼt, I rejected.”

Don has lectured in philosophy in All-Hallows College and was to give a talk the following night on the subject of depression.

Recently he has been touring around Ireland playing smaller, more intimate venues like The Green Room, Holiday Inn, Pearse Street.

Don Baker will be appearing at the Holiday Inn on August 13th, 20th and 27th. During his final show he will be playing with Finbar Furey and Ronnie Drew.

The three of them are fondly known as ʻThe Three Legendsʼ, which Don jokingly says really means ʻThe Auld Onesʼ. Further information can be found on Donʼs website www.donbaker.ie or by phoning the Holiday Inn at 6703666.

Little Bo Peep Preschool At ESB Sportsco Preschool: 9.30–1.00pm, 2.00–5.00pm.

Preschool open all year round Also available: Easter Camp and Summer Camp Birthday Parties (with a difference) If interested contact Eimer/Pauline on: 086 3335079

PAGE 24

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

The Jukebox Review MUSIC

By Daniel Hegarty

S

omeone said recently that CD manufacturers should impose a quality control on the CDs that they press. Itʼs nothing to do with the technical quality of CDs these days, more whatʼs being programmed onto them!

This isnʼt one of those typical rants about modern music, more an observation of some of the absolute crap thatʼs being passed off as acceptable. Now that thatʼs out of the way, letʼs take a look at some of the decent stuff.

The band formerly known as Empire have returned under a new guise - The Radio. Whatʼs better is theyʼve brought a new album with them. ʻKindnessʼ (Reekus) reveals its power and depth from the first time you hit play. Featuring tracks such as ʻEmpireʼ, ʻPromenade Star ʼ, and the single ʻRemember Me Remember Youʼ; youʼd be crazy not to want to listen to The Radio.

One of the biggest problems for acts these days is hype. It starts off as a positive but inevitably turns into a negative– Oasis, Travis, and countless others have experienced both sides of hypeʼs blade. Razorlight are the mediaʼs latest darlings. Their debut album ʻUp All Nightʼ (Mercury) is a potent batch of guitar pop/ rock. Maybe itʼs cynicism, but you can almost sense the calm before the storm.

There was a lot of fuss made over Albert Nilandʼs version of ʻWuthering Heightsʼ, why is the question? Nilandʼs latest album ʻDowntown Exitʼ (AN) is a perfect exercise in how to take absolutely no risks, and in the process make a record that is so middle-of-the-road that itʼs likely to cause an accident! ʻDowntown Exitʼ

Former members of Rollerskate Skinny, Chicks, and Johnny Pyro unite as The Radio. brings back the chill that engulfed Irish music for a number of years back in the early to mid 90s.

While weʼre on the subject of Irish music (and the 90s), former Mexican Pets frontman Pat Clafferty has re-

turned with his debut album after what seems like decades. ʻA Prayer To St. Judeʼ (Purdy) is quite a surprise - gone is Claffertyʼs trademark snarl, and in its place a sweet heartfelt voice. The pick of the ten songs is the

beautiful ʻDonʼt Hurt Butterfliesʼ. ʻNo Rootsʼ (BMG) from Faithless offers no huge surprises, yet it doesnʼt disappoint either. Maxi Jazz, Sister Bliss, and friends serve up a delicious blend of ambient attitude, which is kicked into gear by the lead single ʻMass Destructionʼ.

My Chemical Romance state their intent firmly with ʻI Bought You My Bullets, You Bought Me Your Loveʼ (Eyeball/Polydor). Itʼs frantic and powerful from the start to the finish. Theyʼve even got time for some humour along the way with ʻHoney, This Mirror Isnʼt Big Enough For The Two Of Usʼ. The only hitch here is, My Chemical Romance could find themselves washed away with this wave of rock bands, as there isnʼt quite enough here to distinguish them from acts like Hell Is For Heroes and Billy Talent.

If youʼre a Thin Lizzy fanatic, the latest ʻGreatest Hitsʼ (Universal) package will be a certain purchase.

The two-disc set includes just about everything you could hope for, along with previously unreleased live versions of ʻThe Boys Are Back In Townʼ and ʻCowboy Songʼ.

IN BRIEF: Dubliner Steve Fanagan proves that his prolific musical output isnʼt slowing down. Northstation is his latest project, and ʻBearsʼ (Compactrisc) is a sublime created for late night consumption.

Jesse Malinʼs latest album hasnʼt received the fanfare that his debut was showered with. ʻThe Heatʼ (One Little Indian) is a nice record– the only remarkable thing about it is it manages to slip by without anything outstanding sticking with you.

Irish noise minimalists The Last Sound will be quietly celebrating the release of ʻSkidsʼ (Sinkorswim). The 11 tracks hover somewhere between Future Sound Of London and the outer limits.

Another lo-fidelity collection worth investing in is ʻIf Just Today Were To Be My entire Lifeʼ (Talitres) from Tex La Homa. Mixing lush vocals and beautifully layered beats and melodies– this is a truly special record.

Finally, BJ Cole has enlisted some serious talent on his latest outing. ʻTrouble In Paradiseʼ (Cooking Vinyl) features Groove Armada, Luke Vibert, Alabama 3, and other guests– the only trouble here is picking which track to play!

The Siam Collective ʻMy House On Neptuneʼ (Siam Collective) The genre-jumping, weirdly wonderful Waterford band have struck gold with ʻMy House On Neptuneʼ. Recorded well over a year ago, itʼs amazing that more people havenʼt picked up on this excellent self-released gem. Think Jon Spencer Blues Explosion meets Jimi Tenor meets Beck.

Charlotte Hatherley ʻGrey Will Fadeʼ (Double Dragon) Ashʼs Charlotte Hatherley has found time to record her debut solo record amidst her bandʼs relentless touring schedule.

Hatherley certainly has her own voice, and is skilled in penning catchy tunes. Itʼs unlikely that sheʼll embark on a fulltime solo outing just yet, but when she does, things sound promising. www.charlottehatherley.com

ESSENTIAL LISTENING

Orbital ʻBlue Albumʼ (Orbital) They may have said their farewells at the Oxegen festival last month, but what a wonderful album theyʼve signed off with.

The ʻBlue Albumʼ isnʼt the big fanfare record that many acts would have delivered; itʼs simply the final piece in the history of an important and engaging duo. www.loopz.co.uk

Republic Of Loose ʻThis Is The Tomb Of The Juiceʼ (Big Cat) Letʼs not stray from the facts - you either love them or hate them. Having been critical of the band in the past, ʻThis Is The Tomb Of The Juiceʼ has proven the point once and for all; Republic Of Loose are a seriously potent force - this could be one of the yearʼs strongest debut albums. www.republicofloose.com

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

PAGE 25

Spinal Crap or Hair Band Heroes?

B

reak out your jumpsuits and sweatbands; stadium rock, air guitar rock (or whatever you want to call it) has reared its blow-dried head once again!

Itʼs official– Stadium Rock is no longer a term of abuse.

With the arrival of acts like The Darkness and Young Heart Attack, spandex, screeching guitar solos and theatrical posturing are once again welcome with open arms.

Since the early 90s, and the arrival of acts like Nirvana and Alice In Chains, the outlook for the once untouchable rock

The Darkness and Hayseed Dixie. stars (Motley Crue, Poison, Skid Row, etc) seemed to dim quicker than a firework falling out of the sky. The fickle hands that had once applauded these make-up/jump-suit clad artists, were the ones that promptly gave them the two-fingered salute!

In fairness, the popularity of Rock/Metalʼs Glam side never fully diminished, especially in the US where many offshoot acts prospered at a smaller level. However, as with fashion, Glam Rockʼs revival seemed to catch on as quickly as its initial explosion. It would be wrong to

say that the arrival of ʻPermission To Landʼ by The Darkness was the key factor, although it did have a significant impact on younger music fans.

If you have time to search the Internet, youʼll even find studies that various individuals have written up about Glam Rockʼs sudden revival. Some have put it down to the lack of innovative new music about, but this can hardly be the case– would you really reach for your old Van Halen or Bon Jovi records if you were looking for something new and inspiring?

While The Darkness have

replicated what groups like Def Leppard and ZZ Top did in decades past, Hayseed Dixie have brought their own take on Glam Rockʼs songbook. Their album ʻLet Their Be Rockgrassʼ is one of the funniest records youʼll hear.

Hayseed Dixie describe themselves as ʻa Hillbilly Tribute To AC/DCʼ. Itʼs not just AC/DC songs that get the Bluegrass treatment– Kissʼ ʻDetroit Rock Cityʼ gets a once over, as does Motorheadʼs ʻAce Of Spadesʼ and ʻI Believe In A Thing Called Loveʼ by The Darkness!

If an endorsement was need-

ed, it came earlier this year when AC/DC stumbled across ʻLet There Be Rockgrassʼ, and invited the band to play at their tour-wrap party. The Hayseed boys were even joined onstage

by AC/DC bassist Cliff Williams for a rendition of ʻHave a Drink On Meʼ!

With music and fashion being so fickle, itʼs conceivable that Glam Rock and all of its peculiar offshoots could be back locked in bargain bins in twelve months time. For now though, itʼs fun listening to the tunes in all their inflated and often ridiculous glory.

NEWS • NEWS • NEWS • NEWS • NEWS • NEWS • NEWS • NEWS • NEWS • NEWS

T

he Verve are finally going to be given the Best Of treatment later this year. Although the band split up more than five years ago, tracks from their 1997 album ʻUrban Hymnsʼ have remained hugely popular.

The compilation will include tracks from the bandʼs three studio albums, and will appear in time for Christmas.

God Is An Astronaut are back in studio working on their second album. The Braybased act, who were one of the highlights of last monthʼs Oxegen festival, are expected to release a new single in September.

Former Crocketts vocalist Davey MacManus has formed a new band called The Crimea.

MacManus and his new cohorts have completed their debut album, which has a working title of ʻTragedy Rocksʼ. Track

titles include ʻLottery Winners On Acidʼ, ʻBad Vibrationsʼ, and ʻThe Miserabillist Tangoʼ.

You can find out more by accessing www.thecrimea.net.

If youʼre still hungry for music festivals, then take note of The Boutique Music Festival.

The Boutique Music Festival takes place on September 4th at Stradbally Hall (50 minutes from Dublin). The line-up includes Super Furry Animals, Groove Armada, David Kitt, Grandmaster Flash, along with comedians like Tommy Tiernan, the Apres Match guys, Des Bishop, and Colin Murray (of The Blizzard Of Odd).

Lastly, if you didnʼt manage to catch her performance at Oxegen, PJ Harvey will play two headline dates at The Olympia on August 31 and September 1. Missing her this time will be deemed inexcusable!

God is an Astronaut.

PAGE 26

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

Film Scene •••By Michael Hilliard ‘Spider-Man 2’ SET TWO years on from the events of the first film, ʻSpiderMan 2ʼ focuses on Peter Parkerʼs (Tobey Maguire) struggle to cope with his dual identity.

Simultaneously a gift and a curse, he is reminded that with great power, comes great responsibility.

Desperately trying to balance his time between crime-fighting and living a normal teenage life, Peter finds that his relationships with all those close to him are in danger of imploding.

Harry Osbornʼs (James Franco) growing hatred of Spider-Man, whom he blames for the death of his father, takes its toll on Peter.

The love of his life, Mary Jane Watson (Kirsten Dunst) has found a new boyfriend in the form of John Jameson, astronaut and son of Parkerʼs boss Jonah. Even Peterʼs beloved Aunt May (Rosemary Harris) has fallen on hard times, unable to meet her mortgage repayments after the death of Uncle Ben. Cult director Sam Raimi (Evil Dead Trilogy) improves upon the first film in almost every way. First time around, Raimi was under huge pressure to deliver a competent film, which had to satisfy the generations of fans the character had acquired since his first appearance in Marvel Comicsʼs Amazing Fantasy #15 in 1963. Raimi has clearly gained confidence from both the critical and recordbreaking financial successes of

film one.

Undoubtedly allowed more freedom by the studio and with a whopping rumoured budget in excess of $200 million, Raimi has delivered a fantastic film.

Although focusing more on characterisation and story development than would be traditionally expected from a comic book movie, the visuals are nothing short of stunning.

Along with Raimi, veteran visual effects supervisor John Dykstra (Star Wars), has crafted the most exciting action set piece of the year in the form of an exhilarating clock tower/ train top fight sequence.

Tobey Maguire delivers a subtle performance as Peter Parker, convincingly conveying the range of emotions with which the young photographer is forced to struggle.

The standout performance here though is Alfred Molina (Frida, Identity) as Doctor Otto Octavious, a scientist working on an infinitely renewable energy source, and one of Peter Parkerʼs idols. Hamming it up when required, but also portraying the conflicted nature of ʻDoc Ockʼ, Molina provides a far more effective and entertaining villain than Willem Dafoeʼs ʻGreen Goblinʼ of film one.

Kirsten Dunst is respectable enough as M.J, while J.K. Simmons steals every scene heʼs in as Peterʼs hilarious boss at the Daily Bugle. ʻSpider-Man 2ʼ is the best summer movie of 2004.

Highly recommended.

4 out of 5

‘King Arthur’ ʻLet me sing with inspiration Of the man born of two nations, Of Rome and of Britain... ... Arthur the blessed Led his assault from the Great Wall...ʼ by the 6th century Welsh poet, Taliesin DIRECTED BY Antoine Fuqua (ʻTraining Dayʼ), this version of the King Arthur tale claims to be ʻthe untold true story that inspired the legendʼ. Starring Clive Owen (ʻCroupierʼ, ʻThe Bourne Identityʼ) as the titular hero, Fuqua attempts to separate the man from the myth, with varying degrees of success.

A man of Roman and British parentage, Artorious is sent on one last mission with his knights Lancelot, Galahad, Bors, Tristan, Dagonet and Gawain, in order to receive their discharge papers, and well-deserved freedom.

As the Saxon army is steadily progressing toward Hadrianʼs Wall, the Romans decide to retreat from Britain, giving Arthur and his knights the option to return to Rome or their ancestral homeland in Sarmatia. Indigenous guerilla armies called ʻWoadsʼ see themselves as the true rulers of Britain, devastated by generations of Roman rule.

Despite some inventive action set pieces, including a battle atop a frozen lake, King Arthur is ultimately nothing more than an exercise in mediocrity. Clive Owen sleepwalks his way through what could have been a breakout role, while Keira Knightley as Guinevere is given surprisingly little to do, despite covering most of the filmʼs poster.

Obviously the marketing depart-

ment decided to try to capitalise on her ʻnext-big-thingʼ status. By far, the standout character is Ray Winstoneʼs knight Bors, providing occasional comic relief, a welcome alternative to the gloomy tone.

Stephen Dillaneʼs brief screen time as Merlin is effective if inconsequential.

No doubt inhibited by a 15PG certificate, the battle scenes are mostly stale and uninventive ʻBraveheartʼ clones. The complete lack of crucial conviction from the actors is the filmʼs real downfall. Uninspiring locales, average performances and a lead character drowned out by plot exposition also contribute.

From the moment the heavily worded prologue appears on screen, you will most likely experience that unshakable feeling of deja vous.

Painfully Average.

2.5 out of 5

Previews ʻI, Robotʼ Directed by Alex Proyas (ʻThe Crowʼ, ʻDark Cityʼ), ʻI, Robotʼ is very loosely based on Isaac Asimovʼs book of short stories of the same name. Will Smith is detective Del Spooner, on the case of the suspicious death of Alfred Lanning, head of U.S. Robotics.

Set in a future Earth (2035 A.D.) where robots are common assistants and workers for their human owners, one such worker named Sonny is the primary suspect. Contradicting the three rules that are built into every robot which forbid them from harming humans, Spooner realises that humankind may be in great danger.

Released on August 5th.

The Village This is the latest movie by M. Night Shayamalan, the man who gave us ʻThe Sixth Senseʼ, ʻUnbreakableʼ and ʻSignsʼ. Set in rural Pennsylvania in the 1800s, this is the story of a small self contained village, to which the inhabitants are bound, as mythical creatures living in the surrounding woods prevent them from leaving. Starring Sigourney Weaver, Joaquin Phoenix and William Hurt.

Released on August 20th.

News

* ʻBatman Beginsʼ will be released in May 2005. Directed by Christopher Nolan (ʻMementoʼ, ʻInsomniaʼ), this restart of the Batman franchise looks to be even darker in tone than Tim Burtonʼs vision, which can only be a good thing. After reading the script, my money is on ʻBatman Beginsʼ to be the biggest movie of 2005. View the teaser trailer online now at http://batmanbegins.warnerbros.com * The new title for the final Star Wars movie has been announced as ʻRevenge of the Sithʼ. The film will be released around the same time as ʻBatman Beginsʼ. 2005 will be a hugely profitable summer for Warner Brothers. * Frank Millerʼs ʻSin Cityʼ, one of the most critically acclaimed graphic novels ever, is being filmed for the screen.

Starring Bruce Willis, Mickey Rourke and Jessica Alba among others, the film is being directed by Robert Rodriguez of ʻFrom Dusk Till Dawnʼ and ʻEl Mariachiʼ fame.

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

PAGE 27

WE

DID IT FOR

Paul Tyrell got in touch with the young talent in the area, the likes of Liam Kelly, John Young, Paul Delaney and Paul Delmar, to name but a few and this was the start of the famous club Quayside. Father Tyrell had his hands full and no better man did he call on only, yes, our Noel. After two seasons Father Tyrell moved on to another parish and Noel was left holding the reins.

Quayside, by now in the CYC League, was under Noelʼs guidance promoted to the AUL League.

By Derek Buckley

Y

et again our summer seniors football competition was a major success and I must tell you that if it wasnʼt for Stanley from Alasta Autos this event would not have gone ahead.

Prior to Alasta Autos, Dublin Docklands were our sponsors.

Thanks are due to them for their help in the past.

I am sure everyone knows the competition is now called the ʻNoel Fox Memorial Tournamentʼ.

With Markievicz Celtic being runaway winners, 3:0 over St Patʼs CY, with goals from Luke Egan (2) and Philip Crow (1). Goal of the tournament went to Paul Whelan with his quality overhead kick, and player of the tournament going to the man of many words– Alan Farrell.

On talking to the Markievicz Manager, Joe Coleman, after the game (whoʼs back as top man), he said that the players won it for Noel. I dedicate this article to Noel Fox who recently passed away.

The inspiration came from his son

Paul and myself.

Noel, like any child, was football mad. At the age of 17 he signed for Markievicz Celtic, where not only was he a key figure in the centre of the pack but, believe it or not, he played more as centre half. For those who lined up against him thinking, because of his height, that they were in for a handy one, well they were way off. Noel could win any ball regardless.

Unfortunately, Noel hung up his boots at the age of 28 years. This was due to back pain which is a common complaint among footballers. Typical Noel, in 1974, although he had stopped playing he wanted to be involved with sport and young people.

Over the next couple of years Noel was involved in summer projects, schools sports and community games. He was also active in a local running club who ran in Belgium. To add to Noelʼs excitement and enthusiasm one of his daughters participated in Belgium.

He was the kind of man who would help out any cause.

It was in 1977 that Noel was really missing his ideal sport. Father

I played with Quayside and to me Noel was not only a manager but a friend. Noelʼs memory will always live on because every time I see the Liffey it comes back to me and I am sure many others. I remember it was there that he made us run around to wind down after training.

Unfortunately, Quayside folded in 1996 and now it was time for Noel to fall back to his old roots, yes Markievicz Celtic. Over the years, Noel with Markievicz, saw the good and bad times, but to be honest there was more good than bad.

Noelʼs son, Paul, remembers his father through thousands of things but mostly through football. He remembers his dad being present at

his very first game– something he will never forget.

Noel is survived by his beautiful wife Mae, daughters Laurenta and Alison and his son Paul, also, as Noel would say, his ʻoutlawsʼ and seven lovely grandchildren.

Noel, from players and people who knew you, you will always be in our hearts.

Y OU

Left: Noel Fox (RIP) Below: Markievicz Celtic Alan Farrell (Player of the Tournament) and Joe Coleman (Markievicz Manager) Bottom: Samba Soccer Stars in Railway Union

Always a winning team

Ringsend and District Credit Union Ltd. 5 Irishtown Rd., Dublin 4.

Phone: 6686676 • Fax: 6686288

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PAGE 28

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

The Fontenoy Files Minister Launches Partnership with Dublin Port Company

5 remaining matches. Training has been going particularly well under Albert Hannon and with a very young side there is every reason to be optimistic for the future.

By Shay Connolly

T

he partnership between Dublin Port Co. and the Club was formally launched by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Mr Michael McDowell TD. The partnership arrangement will see Dublin Port Co. providing significant support to the Club in the future in the promotion of football, hurling and camogie in the areas of Dublin 4 and Dublin 2 and in promoting positive community relations.

Over several generations the Club has been home to football and hurling in this part of Dublin and has earned the loyalty and respect of local communities.

Now, with 27 teams across all age groups, upgraded playing and changing facilities, the partnership arrangement with the Dublin Port Co. is seen as providing a key platform for the further development of the Club– both on and off the playing field.

Chairman Pat Kane emphasised that Clanna Gael Fontenoy sees itself as much more than a club but as an integral part of the community and he warmly welcomed the Dublin Portʼs commitment of support.

Speaking for the Dublin Port Co., Chief Executive, Enda Connellan, expressed his delight that they would be working closely with a Club so enmeshed in the local community that has both a chequered history and a vibrant future.

In formally launching the partnership arrangement, Minister Michael McDowell pointed to the arrangement as a model of how sports clubs and the private sector can successfully find common cause.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, the Ladies adult footballers had quite a successful season to date. They reached the championship semi-finals, where they lost out to Thomas Davis after a magnificent second half performance saw them really threaten the hosts.

This team has some great young players in Orla Bolton, Kim Flood, Siobhan Joyce and

Catherine Murray. They finished half way up in their league and considering that this section is only running a few years the future looks healthy. This section is always looking for new personnel so if your daughter canʼt take her eyes of MTV, why not send her down to the club where she can see some real stars.

There is a competition for this sector, which involves 16 clubs and will be held over the weekend of August 22nd and 23rd at the Club. Ford Crawfords Garage on Beach Road who will present the winners and runnersup with their trophies sponsors this competition. Meanwhile the U16 ladies team are currently lying second in the campaign and have not ruled out going all the way this season.

Juvenile section has some success to record. U16 footballers have won their league having lost just one match in all their outings. Congrats to captain Ger Griffin and all the lads. U16 hurlers have reached the knockout stages of the league and eagerly await the championship in a couple of weekʼs time.

U15 hurlers are in the exact same position and great credit is due to Mark Moore, Thomas Neville and Colm Reynolds in bringing superb back-up to this team. U14 hurlers are back in action and have some great wins to their credit.

Also on their winning ways are the Minor Footballers who captured league honours this season and in doing so brought home a Minor trophy for the first time in many a year. Congratulations to all concerned as they too enter the Championship fray shortly in hurling and football. U10s have had a great season and are very well placed in their league. U8s, U9s, U11s and U12s continue to compete healthily.

Inter hurlers have not had the best of seasons. Their campaign was severely handicapped with the loss of such players as Mark Campbell and Mark Moore.

However, since the introduction of Joey Dalton as coach there has been a marked improvement in their recent outings. Joey, a former Dublin senior hurling star in the 90s knows the landscape very well and while it may seem doom and gloom in certain quarters Joey is optimistic for the future.

Speaking with Joey recently he told me that a good team does not become a bad team overnight and that last year there was much talk about this team in hurling circles in the capital. “A few unlucky results can dent a teamʼs confidence but there are some wonderfully skilled individuals in this team.

We should keep chipping away at it in training until it returns to

us but above all we should not drop our heads. Everybody gets a setback in life but it is a test of oneʼs character how one reacts to that setback and how one can bounce back. I believe that this team has plenty of character.”

Staying with hurling, a task force consisting of Nicky English, Tony Dempsey, former Wexford hurling Manager and Seamus Colleymore have met to discuss the way forward for hurling at the Club. They have many inspiring ideas and this report will be ready for the end of September. They invite anyone interested in hurling, members or non-members, to share their ideas with them. This is an opportune moment for all to bring the club back to its glory days of the past.

Anyone who may be interested please contact Shay Connolly at 087-9011716. Hurling is a special brand of sport and attracts a special brand of person. If you feel you can offer anything to this great game of ours, give Shay a ring.

Inter footballers reached the second phase of the Championship where they fell to a very strong St Brigidʼs side who fielded some of their Leinster Championship winning campaign. They are still in there with a chance of reaching the playoffs in the league but cannot afford another slip-up in their

BACKCHAT * The legendʼs return to the Junior hurlers has not reached the dizzy heights expected. As explained in the last edition, the news had hit the GAA world that the legend had returned and all teams put out their strongest side to counteract such an historic development. In one of the recent matches against St Olafʼs in Sandyford, St Olafʼs took such drastic action as to remove their Clubhouse signposts in an effort to thwart the arrival of the legend.

After many manoeuvres down the M50 with Pat Kane piloting they were not to be outdone and arrived one minute before the throw-in. The legend was soon in action. Receiving a pass from a lesser mortal he danced through three defenders in an amazing fleet of foot to send a powerful swivelled shot towards the net.

Sandyford stood still. Traffic came to a halt The Dublin Mountains sat up and waited.

Paddy Joyceʼs heart stopped.

Jack Nicholson froze in time.

Frank White wasnʼt there but sensed it all. Neither were Mick Kerins or Brendan OʼBrien but they still seethed with envy as the sliothar whizzed toward the little rope squares.

St Olafʼs goalkeeper, who was practising all week at seven in the morning in anticipation of the legendʼs arrival somehow received inspiration from the legend himself and dived into the air to send the shot around the posts for a 65.

In true sporting appreciation, the legend acknowledged such a wonderful feat by giving the goalkeeper the butt of his hurley stick in the ribs (an ancient hurling tradition). The referee, who was keen to show his appreciation of the legendʼs mastery and stick work, asked him for his name so that he could enter it into his little book of hurling legends. After this, he took a lemon from his top pocket and

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004 raised it to the gods.

But unfortunately the game was marred by the reappearance of a sniper. This same sniper who downed Paddy Joyce some years ago on his hurling return struck again. The victim this time was veteran Paul Kennedy, he of refereeing and Oarsman fame as he was in full flight to nowhere.

Paul pulled up in such agony and moaned in such wails that one would think he was a junior footballer. Paul was duly dispatched and flung into the nearby bushes with a large bottle of Cider as the futile search for the sniper commenced and the points were conceded.

(Would someone please tell Albert Hannon who they think the legend is. Albert has been walking the boards during the night as it has emerged that the legend is a former master of football as well.) * For the first time ever, the Club holds its own Summer Camps in football and hurling this year and to date there have been encouraging numbers applying. Dublin Port Co. has put up some lovely prizes for the participants. As we go to print the football camp is underway and the hurling starts the following week. Want to send your child down? Well just pop in any morning at 10.00 or ring the club at 6604064. * Yankee Saunders ran a very successful Golf Outing for the Club recently in Donabate.

Amid screams of cheating about handicaps, The Yacht Tavern ran away with the competition with 28 handicap. Charlie Bowden collected the top prize of a fivefigure sum. Yankee tells me that he is fed up running this very

PAGE 29 worthwhile function on his own and that unless someone gives him a hand next year heʼs off to the San Francisco Bulls or the Chicago 49ʼers. (sic) * The Tuesday Club is looking for new recruits and membership opens in September for those from Belfast or Sligo only. * Our sincere condolences too the Nicholson, Boylan, Kemple and Learmouth families on their recent sad bereavements. * Second new Prunty pitch is all set to open and by late autumn we hope to have both pitches complimented with floodlights. * Dermot Nicholson has joined the army and is posted to some far-flung barracks up the canals. Dermot was in two minds as to whether he should join the Legion of Mary or the Army. Hearing that the Legion of Mary is only starting up hurling next year he opted for the Army instead. * James Doyle has recently joined the cast at Warner Bros where he has taking up the post as Chief Stuntman. * The Club raised €1,700 for People in Need. The night kicked off with a sponsored football match where Domo Nangle and Robert Larkin stole the show (and the beer later).

Jack Nicholson, used to sheep shearing himself in Wicklow, got a taste of his own medicine when he got sheared himself.

However, Jack raised the most money. * Watch out for the ʻWarriorsʼ (U16 hurlers) new tee shirts.

They are bound to walk the catwalk before the year ends. * Thursday 19 August 8.30 pm. Table Quiz at Clanna Gael

Fontenoy, Sean Moore Road in aid of the Under 15 Hurlers trip to Glasgow.

Far page, left to right: Shay Connolly, Enda Connellan, Michael McDowell TD, Eoin Ryan TD, Pat Kane, Frank White and Gerry Kelly (DDDA) with representatives of the juvenile section of the Club.

Above: Gerry Barry, Michael Sheery and Charlie Murphy, Dublin Port Co, with Kevin Humphreys and Frank White with the recipients of the Summer Camp.

Below: Enda Connellan, Chief Executive Dublin Port Co. ratifies the Partnership Agreement with Chairman Pat Kane, witnessed by Eoin Ryan TD and Minister Michael McDowell TD.

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PAGE 30

The Dunne’s Footballing Tradition Continues

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

New Lord Mayor and Admiral of the Port!

By Frances Corr

T

CONGRATULATIONS TO the Dublin District Schoolboysʼ League Under-13 representative side, who won the Kennedy Cup Final, when they defeated the Cork Schoolboys League 5–4 on penalties at the University of Limerick campus.

Local boy, Simon Dunne, captained the Dublin District Schoolboys League team in their bid to win the prestigious Kennedy Cup. Simon is following in the footsteps of distant relation Jimmy Dunne from Ringsend. Jimmy died in 1949 at the early age of 44.

He played for Shamrock Rovers before he moved on to the English Third Division club, New Brighton and then he was noticed

by Sheffield and moved on to Bramall Lane in 1926.

He ended his career as a full-time coach for Shamrock Rovers.

Jimmyʼs nickname was ʻSnowyʼ because of his very fair hair.

There is a definite resemblance between him and young Simon.

he new Lord Mayor of Dublin was elected to office on 21st June 2004.

Cllr. Michael Conaghan left Donegal in 1969 and has lived in Dublin for over 40 years. He resides in Ballyfermot although his present address is the Mansion House Dawson Street, Dublin 2.

He is married to Marian and has two grown-up children. One is married and living in Australia and the other is a teacher in a school in Castlenock who lives at home. Michael Conaghan is a teacher by profession and is the assistant principal of Inchicore College of Further Education.

The Lord Mayor joined the Labour party in 1990 and was elected to Dublin City Council in 1991 to represent the Ballyfermot ward. He topped the poll on three separate occasions. He has been Chairman of the City of Dublin, VEC for many years.

A passionate supporter of issues relating to the Arts, Heritage and Culture, Cllr. Conaghan has published various articles of research into local heritage matters and local history, particularly within Inchicore/ Kilmaninham and Ballyfermot areas.

He admitted he was not too familiar with our neck of the woods,

but had visited the VEC College in Ringsend on a number of occasions and was impressed with the rejuvenation of the area. He intends over the coming months to familiarise himself with all aspects of the City.

The history of the City and the Port of Dublin is familiar to him and this is just as well because in addition to his title of Lord Mayor of Dublin he was also conferred with the role of Admiral of the Port of Dublin at a ceremony in St Andrewʼs Resource Centre at the opening of the South Docks Festival on July 19th.

During his term in office Cllr.

Conaghan intends paying particular attention to community policing issues, and hopes to establish a specific Council Committee to deal with issues relating to social justice and equality.

The Lord Mayor would like to see a new charter for the City.

The ethos of the new council will be policy driven, working for change with the City Manager and delivering on peopleʼs rights in policing through high level contact with the Gardai.

Cllr. Conaghan said he wanted to see a democratic alliance for change immediately for the people of Dublin which he hoped will be published in the coming weeks. The charter will cover citizenship rights in relation to

policing, housing which is a basic human right, planning, the environment services and access to the planning system. He said, at present it is in the hands of a few.

When asked what he meant when he spoke of social justice, he said the fancy word is now ʻInclusionʼ. He is very strongminded on community building. There is a huge emphasis on building the city, but, in his opinion very little on rebuilding communities. A lot of communities have gone through a very difficult time through unemployment, drugs and inadequate housing and services.

The old enduring values of community building and of solidarity, people helping people, these values are either lost or under attack. It is very important he said to maintain and build on these values and access and inclusiveness is vital to the regeneration of Dublin. The Lord Mayor stated unless we pay as much attention to these issues we will have a very lopsided city, a city that has lost its heart and its soul.

Lord Mayor of Dublin Cllr.

Michael Conaghan is pictured with, from left: Pauline Boland, Joe Burke, Chairman of Dublin Port, Betty Ashe and Enda Connellan, CEO Dublin Port.

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

PAGE 31

O VER AND

U NDER

By Christy Hogan

T

THE

he crowd at the junction of Ringsend Road and South Lotts Road was swelling by the minute. Friends, colleagues and neighbours of the deceased had gathered to pay their last respects. The remains would, according to The ʻEvening Heraldʼ, be arriving at St Patrickʼs Church, Ringsend, at 5.30.

“Will ʼe be cominʼ down South Lotts?” a voice from the crowd enquired. “I think so,” came the reply. “I thought it was the Mater he died in”. “No, sure wasnʼt he carted off to Vincentʼs in the ambulance.”

At this juncture a man with the ʻEvening Heraldʼ, obviously an intellectual, read aloud from the death column. “Suddenly at St Vincentʼs Hospital, Elm Park,– St Vincentʼs Hospital, Elm Park,” he emphasised. He sounded like Fred Elliot out of Coronation Street.

“Heʼll be coming South Lotts so,”

B RIDGE

THE

M ERC !

said a lone voice. A man on the periphery of the crowd said “do ye think the deceased would ʻpreferʼ the scenic route?” Smiles and a muted chuckle filled the air.

It was almost twenty past five and some people were getting worried. As if ʻanythingʼ let alone the ceremony could start without the main participant. “Here it is now, here it is,” they said.

The hearse approached and came gently to a halt. The rear door was then opened and the coffin withdrawn. Six pallbearers lifted the deceased shoulder high. They then commenced the short journey over the bridge to Ringsend church.

They walked behind the hearse slowly and respectfully. About one hundred mourners saying farewell to their departed friend.

Behind them came the mourning coaches with the bereaved family.

Some family members had got out and were mingling and accepting condolences from neighbours and friends. Small groups of people talked and reminisced of happier

times spent with the deceased.

Those who knew him from his working days brushed shoulders with those who spoke of his football prowess. Others recalled his jollity while having a few pints in his company in Fitzerʼs. Many just recalled him as a nice man from Stella.

Every thirty yards the coffin would stop and a fresh group of pallbearers would take over. Precision was essential. Two men, one at the head, the other at the foot, would hold the coffin in a steady position while six replaced six as pallbearers.

I had been walking at the rear of the cortége and was standing still during one of these changeovers when suddenly my knees buckled.

Initially, I was unaware of what was happening to me as I lost control and was pushed to the ground.

I remember shouting out “Jesus whatʼs happening” as I found myself ʻprostrate on Bridge Streetʼ.

The mourning coach was driving over me.

The driver had taken his eyes of the cortége in front of him.

And when the coffin stopped for the changing of pallbearers, he kept going. Eventually the Merc stopped and I was helped to my feet. I felt sore and I could feel blood on my jeans at the knees.

Bloodied but unbowed I continued on over the bridge to St Patrickʼs.

As the cortége turned into Thorncastle Street, a large crowed assembled. Some people were proppinʼ up the chipper while others stood outside the post office. Fitzerʼs closed their doors; they always did when a coffin went past. Respect was paramount. The driver of the

offending Merc apologised to me.

I accepted his apology.

As I sat in the pew during the ceremony I covered my bloodied knees with my hands. I laughed to myself despite my discomfort, at the thought of being knocked down at a funeral by a mourning coach.

While walking home after the funeral service I couldnʼt help but chuckle to myself. I thought about my friend, who had made me laugh on many an occasion. I felt that with the help of some ʻdivine interventionʼ he had plotted in my unfortunate funeral experience just for the last laugh.

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NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

Law Abiding

By Alex O’Hanlon

H

arry Lester opened his mail and examined the diploma he had received from law school. At last he had achieved what he always wanted and it had all been worth while.

He had wondered at the beginning if he would regret it, but time had proved to him that he had done the right thing.

While stuck in a dead-end job, faith had handed him an opportu-

nity to acquire the funds needed to study full-time without the burden of having to earn a living.

It all started one evening in autumn as Harry was on his way to the library. An attractive, wealthy looking woman in a well-kept car had parked just round a corner and picked up a passing taxi.

Unusual, he thought, to park a car and take a taxi. With that a bus arrived. He ran to the stop and

caught it.

By sheer coincidence the woman he had seen park the car was in the library. Harry had to stop himself watching her as she moved through the shelves. Moments later he removed a book and noticed her in the next aisle searching for a book. She found the one she was looking for and looked round suspiciously to see if anyone could see her.

Harry was intrigued. She was acting very strangely. Satisfied that no one was watching, she took a piece of paper from her pocket and slipped it into the book. She replaced the book and left in a hurry.

Harry found the book with the paper without much difficulty.

Unfolding the paper he read the note. “Do not ring me at the house again, I will pay, but you must give me more time, it is too much money to raise at such short notice without drawing undue attention.” It was not signed.

Harry replaced the note and hurried from the library. He hailed a passing taxi. The wellkept car was pulling away as he arrived. He noted the registration number and went home to figure aout what to do.

Next morning he had made up his mind to follow things through.

Obviously, the woman was being blackmailed. She was paying someone off and the price was high. He made a few enquiries and found the car was registered to a Mr Douglas Price-Burrows, undoubtedly the husband. He had a vague recollection of seeing the name in the society pages.

For the next few days Harry kept a close watch on the library from a nearby coffee shop. On the fourth evening he saw Mrs PriceBurrows enter the library. Harry followed discreetly. She went to the same bookshelf and when she left he checked the book again.

This time there was no note.

As he replaced it he noticed a thick envelope pushed in behind the books. Making sure no one was watching he looked inside.

Money! Lots of money. Certainly enough to give him a good start in law school. He could take it now and no one would ever know, but that could cause complications.

Instead, he replaced it and moved away to think.

Passing a window he saw Mrs Price-Burrows leave the building. Of course! The blackmailer would be doing the same thing

from some other vantage point to make sure she had gone before touching the money.

He sat down to read, wait and watch. People came and went.

The librarian passed several times with her trolley replacing books on the shelves. The librarian worked replacing and rearranging books, then, almost unnoticed, with a quick glance in both directions, she slipped the envelope onto her trolley. Harry was surprised, but on reflection reasoned that if she was caught at this point she had good reason to remove any unauthorised item from the shelves.

He watched as she returned to the counter and casually placed her prize on the desk. After a discreet delay she took some negatives from her handbag and put them in a small envelope, addressed the envelope and sealed it.

Harry waited about half an hour until she left the counter unattended. He moved swiftly.

Leaving the library he quickly reached over the counter picked up the two envelopes and went on his way. He posted the letter with the negatives and enrolled in law school next day.

BILL’ S CELEBRATION

BILL (JOCK) MCBRYAN with great grandchildren David, Nathan and Shaun. Bill is from St Patrickʼs Villas, Ringsend. He celebrated Celtic FCʼs League and Scottish Cup win with his great grandchildren.

Billʼs great grandchildren are following in their great granddadʼs footsteps and are proud supporters of Celtic FC, even little Nathan who is only 6 months old.

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

PAGE 33

YOUNG PHOTOGRAPHERS SHOW INITIATIVE

By Frances Corr

U

nder the instruction of professional photographers, over 1,200 students and teachers from 19 schools in the Docklands were encouraged to take part in the photographic initiative.

Their remit was to look deep into the life of the community in which they live and work and to highlight and celebrate the varying mix which is now very much part of Dublinʼs Docklands. Over 1600 cameras were distributed by joint sponsors the DDDA and Agfa, of which over 1200 were returned.

Speaking at the presentation, Gerry Kelly, Director of Social Regeneration for the DDDA said, “We are delighted with the response to the Docklands Photographic Initiative and

very impressed indeed with the range and high standard of the images captured on film of all the contestants.”

Among the students who received citations were Aoife Barnes of Ringsend, a pupil of St Maryʼs Holy Faith Haddington Road.

Other Winners were Amanda Hickey-Hedberg, Junior Infants, St Matthewʼs National School, and Paul Oglesby, Amy Kelly, Keith Symes, Sara Kinsella, Gavin Wheelock, Leon Bannerman, James OʼKeefe, Michelle, Jordan Scurry, Aideen Mc Carthy, Kasie Howard, Chantelle Caffrey.

The overall winner was Chloe Knowd, preparatory class St Laurence OʼTooles Infant Girlsʼ School.

On left: Photograph taken by Aoife Barnes.

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PAGE 34

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

Councillor Garry Keegan

FLAT BREAD OF LIFE – CHAPPATI

Mobile: 086 235 8913

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Advice Centres St. Andrew’s, Pearse Street, Dublin 2 Tuesdays 7pm–8pm Community Centre, Ringsend, Dublin 4 Councillor Garry Keegan Would like to thank all those who supported him in the local elections If you want to contact me please do so on 086 235 8913

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ice, millet, barley, oats, wheat, buckwheat, rye, corn can all be milled into flour and made into bread, even beans like soya or aduki etc can be ground. Some nature food shops do this or one can buy a little mill and have fresh flour.

Are palhiri a rice flour bread is a muslim speciality bread particularly associated with Ramzan or Ramadan festival (time of fasting).

It is to the Malabar region what chapatti is to North India. Millet

bread is also called dhebra.

Flat breads or unleavened (no yeast or raising agent used) such as Nan (naan), pitta and chapatti are very easy to make. Nan is a Persian word and Nan or Naan is the white bread of the Muslim North West of the Punjab and Kashmir and beyond that, Afghanistan and Central Asia.

The large breads in restaurants are cooked in tandoories– beehive domes arching over a charcoal oven with food being introduced through an opening on the top and sticking to the clay sides of the tandoori.

Pitta is a modern Greek word for bread of a flat, round unleavened type of middle Eastern countries, which can be opened like nan to insert a filling.

Chappati 225g chappati flour (ata) 175 ml water Sea salt Add the flour and salt to a mix-

ing bowl and add a little of the water at a time, blending in with the fingers. Gently work all the flour and water into a soft dough.

Knead the dough for a couple of minutes, slightly moisten the surface and leave to rest for about 20 minutes.

Divide the dough into about 10 small pieces and roll into small balls. Dust with extra flour and roll out into small circular shapes, dusting both sides with flour to prevent sticking. They will probably end up about 15 - 20cm in diameter.

Heat the metal pan until it is quite hot and then place a chappati onto the surface. It should cook for about 20–30 seconds. If the chappati sticks, the pan isnʼt hot enough. If the chappati burns then it is too hot! Turn the chappati over and repeat the treatment on the second side.

Place the chappati on a serviette on a warm serving dish and then repeatedly cook the remaining chappatis.

Place them to form a pile on the napkin and serve warm.

I NCINERATION U PDATE

O

R EPORT FROM THE COMBINED RESIDENTS A GAINST INCINERATION (CRAI)

n the day of the local elections in June, the Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government directed the local and regional authorities to review the Waste Management Plans. On the 25th June an advertisement appeared in the Irish Times, on behalf of the Dublin City Council and the three other local authorities. It stated: “Notice is hereby given in accordance with Section 22 of the Waste Management Act, 1996 as amended, that Dublin City Council along with the other three local authorities in the region intends to review the existing Waste Management Plan for the Dublin Region.”

Dublin City Council will be the co-ordinating authority for the proposed review of the existing plan and the preparation of a new Plan.

Written representations in relation to this matter may be made to the local authority by 4pm on Friday 31st of August 2004.

At a recent meeting of CRAI to which all public representatives in the South East Area and Pembroke electoral areas were invited, the following question was asked: “As there is a review of the Waste Management Plan for the Dublin Region taking place at this time, what input do you and your po-

litical party intend to make to this review and the making of a new plan?”

The Labour Party, who was fully represented at the meeting, assured us they would be making a submission. A representative for the PDs stated they too would make a submission, as did the Green Party. CRAI requested that copies of their submission should be supplied to them. The CRAI group together with the assistance of their legal team will also make a submission.

Another issue raised was the recent mysterious survey carried out in the area on what it would take for the community to accept an Incinerator. None of the politicians present was aware of this survey.

Elizabeth Arnett in a letter to CRAI states: “Neither Dublin City Council nor any member of the Dublin Waste to Energy Project team was contacted in advance of this research being carried out and we had no input into defining the questions or the objectives of the exercise.”

The most extraordinary aspect of the questionnaire was the suggestion, repeated several times, that a sum of €2,000,000 was available to compensate the residents of the area for the problems that would arise from the location of the pro-

posed incinerator in the midst of their community.

The way the incinerator proposal is being progressed seems to be concealed from the very public who will be the most affected if it is ever built. This is not an acceptable situation, and we await further developments with great interest.

The pressure has been put on people in the area to accept a mass burn Incinerator, while no actual decision has been made to site the Incinerator for the entire Regional Authority in Poolbeg. At the moment it is still the preferred or proposed site.

It is now five years since the proposal was first announced, and CRAI will continue to monitor the situation.

It could be that the object of the long process is to wear opposition to the Incinerator down and to try to instil the idea in the locals that this is a fait accompli. It is not; CRAI will take every avenue available to stop this proposal.

You can help, by either making a submission to the Waste Management Review or contacting your local political representative and telling them to stop this plan. Let them know you oppose it. Remember our health is our wealth and this is not for sale at any price.

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

PAGE 35

HOW QUICKLY CAN YOU DO OUR CROSSWORD?

A €20 book token for the first correct crossword opened. Please send your entry to Ann Ingle, NewsFour, 15 Fitzwilliam Street, Ringsend, Dublin 4.

Name ____________________ Address______________________________________________ Tel No. ________________

ACROSS

DOWN

1. Urban guerrillas (9) 5. _ _ _ _ as a coot (4) 9. Endearingly pretty (4) 11. Michael McAuliffe wore one on 16 June (6) 12. Tea for _ _ _ (3) 13. Tasteless and shoddy articles (3) 14. Commonly used term for a toilet (3) 15. City of Tribes (6) 17. Come together (5) 18. A poem expressing noble feelings (3) 19. Informal modern expression to greet someone (2) 20. An old Ford perhaps (6) 22. Donʼt spoil the ship for a haporth of _ _ _ (3) 24. Fifth sign of the Zodiac (3) 25. His most famous book was 100 years old this year (5) 26. An extensive group of states ruled over by a monarch (6) 29. Exclamation which may be followed by ʻupʼ or ʻwhizʼ depending on the circumstances (3) 30. To tie the knot (3) 31. Do nothing for the moment, lay _ _ _ (3) 33. Pointed horny nail on a bird (4) 34. A French person might be this when sad (4) 35. This saintʼs day is 18 October (4) 36. War memorial (8)

1. Low class woman or piece of confectionery, maybe (4) 2. To bring to mind (9) 3. Small deer or fish eggs (3) 4. A short, sharp sound made by a horn or trumpet (4) 6. Aim for the target with this (5) 7. Fair or fight? (10) 8. Hot and humid (6) 10. Suit often worn by smart professional women (7) 11. The symbol of this saint is a knife (11) 16. Very large or impressive (9) 21. Praise the Lord (8) 23. Old cinema in Ringsend (5) 27. Letʼs hope you are not as thick as one of these (5) 28. To accompany curry (4) 30. A bundle of banknotes (3) 32. The _ _ _ _ is father to the thought (Shakespeare) (4) 34. A high mountain (Scottish) (3)

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PAGE 36

By George Humphries

I

discovered this place by chance while looking at the Garden Heaven programme on television some time ago and have made many visits since. The Steam Museum is only a short drive from Dublin. It is situated 16 miles from Dublin off the N7 and is signposted from Kill.

One of the many interesting aspects of the museum is the Guinness family connection. The grounds belong to the last of the sons Richard Guinness and the museum is right beside his residence. The Richard Guinness Hall displays his collection of historic prototype models built at the beginning of the era.

The Steam Museum Building is rebuilt from the Great Southern and Western Railway Church of St Judeʼs removed from Inchicore in Dublin. There was a huge CIE engineering works on Inchicore Road where a lot of steam engines, trains and all kinds of heavy machinery were produced up until a few years ago.

The Church of St Judeʼs was

L EARNING

By Nicola McMahon THERE ARE basically two kinds of night courses. One involves doing or learning something for leisure purposes and the other type involves getting a certificate/diploma/degree.

With both types of courses an important benefit is the social aspect– meeting new people with similar interests and having fun. There are a number of different types of courses offered in the Dublin 4 area, so there should be something for everyone.

Computer Courses Ringsend Technical Institute on Cambridge Road has the following: Foundation ECDL, ECDL (25 weeks certificate), Internet and EMail, Microsoft Office Specialist certificate, Spreadsheets/Excel certificate, Photoshop– beginners and improvers, Web Design, Desk Top Publishing using Quark, AutoCAD beginners and certificate.

Ballsbridge College on Shelbourne Road has a course called Computers for Beginners for those with no previous knowledge and another basic course, Keyboarding skills/Text production. They also have Foundation ECDL, ECDL(20 weeks certificate), Introduction to Web Design, Troubleshoot Your Own Computer, Book Keeping.

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

T HE S TEAM M USEUM , S TRAFFAN , C O . K ILDARE

used by the workers and when the workforce dwindled the church was removed. It lay derelict until the trustees of the steam museum bought the church, took it down stone by stone and brought it to Straffan. It was then rebuilt in the grounds of Straffan House.

All that remains at Inchicore is the

BY

spire.

On several of the window sills some of the names of the great engineers who worked in the Inchicore works are engraved. There are also lots of early models of steam engines that were used in breweries, distilleries, factories and ships throughout Ireland.

The Walled Garden of eighteenth century origin at Straffan House is exquisite with a breathtaking roserie and lots of unusual shrubs and plants. To round off your visit go to The Steaming Kettle Teahouse situated across the courtyard. These are lovely tea rooms with home baking and very good service.

June, July and August: Wednesday to Sunday and Bank Holidays 2.00 - 6.00 pm (Steam up every Sunday. May and September by arrangement in advance. Admission rates to Steam Museum and Lodge Park Walled Garden: Adults €7.50, Child/OAP/Student €5.00 Family Admission €20.

While you are in the area, you should visit the Donadea Forest Park. ʻTake nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprintsʼ are the words that greet you when you approach the Woods. The road

from Clane over to Kilcock is where this beauty spot is located.

I fell in love with the place and I have visited the forest several times in the last few months.

The tranquillity that exists there is magic. I went in the evening and spent an hour or so rambling through the woods. The only sounds I heard were birds chirping and a few rabbits running around.

The hustle and bustle of the city is left far behind.

N IGHT

Languages Spanish and Italian– beginners.

Ringsend also has improvers in these two languages. English as a Foreign Language is taught in both colleges at intermediate level but Ballsbridge also has an advanced level. French– beginners and improvers and Irish Sign language can be found in Ringsend Technical Institute. Ballsbridge College teaches beginners Chinese.

Leaving Certificate Subjects and General Education Ringsend Institute teaches a 25 week Leaving Cert English and Maths. The basic courses are free: Numeracy and Spellwell Arts and Crafts Drawing and Visual Exploration is an introduction to drawing techniques that is taught in Ringsend.

Ballsbridge College teaches the following introductory courses: Watercolour Painting and Acrylic Painting. There is also a mosaic course where students learn the basic techniques of mosaic for mirrors, tables and other items using ordinary, broken household tiles.

Other craft courses taught in Ringsend include; Woodwork, Metalcraft, Jewellery making, Stained Glass techniques and Pottery.

Dressmaking is taught in both

colleges, as is Digital Photography.

Photography (using a single lens reflex (SLR) camera) and dark room procedures are also taught in Ringsend Tech.

Dancing and Movement Yoga and Tai Chi are taught in both colleges and are great for flexibility, toning and training your mind to relax. Ringsend Technical Institute also provides the following courses: Salsa/Latin American Dancing, Ballroom Dancing, Hip Hop, Stretching and Toning (BLT), Aerobics and Badminton.

Hobby Courses The following are taught in both colleges: Creative Writing, Bridge and Coastal Yacht Master Certificate. On a similar note, in Ringsend Tech there is also a course in Marine Engine Maintenance.

Interior Design is taught in Ballsbridge, whereas House Maintenance is taught in Ringsend. Dinner Party Ideas is taught in Ringsend by an experienced chef.

You can learn how a car engine works and how to identify the different pieces under the bonnet by doing the Motor Car Maintenance

course in Ringsend Technical Institute.

Drama and Theatre Studies are taught in Ringsend. There are also various evening acting for camera courses available at the Film Actors Studio in The Courtyard Film & TV Studio, Irishtown, Dublin 4. For further details contact John Cantwell, Film Actors Studio office at: (01) 269 1949, 10am-1pm & 25pm, Mon-Fri. A guitarist is never lonely because no party is complete without someone there playing the strings. Ringsend Technical Institute has both a beginners and an improvers course in guitar but you need your own instrument.

For helping alleviate the stresses of life, two courses in Ringsend will help you on the way. Aromatherapy Massage teaches body massage techniques using essential oils. Destress and Empower Yourself covers Reiki methods and how it works.

Ballsbridge College has the following personal development courses: Neuro-Linguistic Programmingenables people to learn patterns of excellence and is one of the fastest growing areas in applied psychol-

ogy.

Introduction to Counselling– gives an introduction on what exactly counselling is.

Assertiveness– teaches communication skills.

The School of Philosophy and Economic Science will also run a twelve-week evening course in Practical Philosophy. The course covers subjects such as developing and expanding reason, realising our limitless potential, living in the present and various other aspects. Further details can be found at 47/49 Northumberland Road, D4; 01-6603788 or freephone 1800 324 556.

Enrolment Dates for Ballsbridge can be made by post until 1st September, or on Monday 13th, Tuesday 14th and Thursday 16th September between 6-7:30p.m. Further information and class times can be found at www.ballsbridgecollege. com or call 668 4806 / 668 2361.

Ringsend Technical Institute enrolments can be made by post or by attending 7–8:30p.m. from Monday 13th to Thursday 23rd September.

Further details and class times can be found by e-mailing info@ringtec. cdvec.ie or phone 668 4498/668 9591.

NEWSFOUR JUNE 2004

PAGE 37

‘T HE S IXTH C LASS F LASH ’ F ROM R INGSEND N ATIONAL S CHOOL

sinated or else being terrorised.

However, Bertie Ahern, I think is being a bit too soft. He doesnʼt sit down and think about it, and think about the dangers that he is putting us in. If we do get bombed, Bertie would be at fault for not thinking about the threats and dangers.

The reason why I do want him here is that he is helping us in a way, because America buys loads of our produce, which makes us money. He also helped Northern Ireland a lot and we canʼt forget that.

So I do not know if I will welcome or protest against George Bush coming to Ireland, but one thing I do know is that I hope everything will be ok. Bye for now!

By Warren Behan, Liam Brennan, Ryan Moloney, Paul Neville, Craig McGrath, Andrew Murran, David Ashmore, Keith Hopkins, Ben Scott, Andrew Byrne, Michael Egan and Eric Byrne D.D.D.A. Photography Award Ceremony Before Easter a man came to the school and told us about a photography competition that the Dublin Docklands were holding.

He gave everyone a camera and told us to take loads of pictures during the holidays and then bring them back in. Our teacher sent them away and then about a month later we were told that six people had won prizes for their brilliant photos. Three were in our class. They were Ryan Moloney, Keith Hopkins and Michael Egan. So off they went to the Dublin Docklands building and they got certificates to say they were in the top 100 best photographs. It was a great day, especially because the chicken was gorgeous!

By Liam Brennan, Paul Neville and David Ashmore Stretch for Success Award Ceremony Boys from Fifth and Sixth Class were invited to a special ceremony in the NCI because they had done so well at their

work throughout the year, especially at the S.R.A. kits. The boys were awarded a certificate and a voucher for €20 for Easons from the college. We also got coke and sweets, yummy!

By Andrew Byrne and Michael Egan D.D.D.A. Music in the Classroom Awards In September last year a man called Tim Stynes came to the school and worked with fourth, fifth and sixth classes. He let us play loads of different instruments. We made up different rhythms and we also made up a rap that we sang at the concert.

Tim worked with another school, called St. Laurence OʼToole CBS and our school for six weeks.

At the end of the six weeks, we came together at the National Concert hall and performed our different rhythms and raps. It was brilliant, especially when everyone cheered and clapped for us. Then Mr Coyle came up to our class last week (14th June) and told us we got a special award for being so good in the concert. So we all arrived at the D.D.D.A. building and our school was presented with a certificate and a trophy. We were all very proud and happy!

By Keith Hopkins and Andrew Murran

Pats Rap Rap/say once His name is David Beckham, He has hairy legs, Rubbish because he ate too many sausages and eggs.

In Real Madrid on bail, He never gets fan mail.

Run on the pitch, fall in a ditch, heʼs better off in jail.

Sing Once His name is David Beckham, He has hairy legs, Rubbish because he ate too many sausages and eggs.

In Real Madrid on bail, He never gets fan mail.

Run on the pitch, fall in a ditch, heʼs better off in jail.

Chorus Oh 1 2 3 (clap clap) I play my football much better than he, (Clap Clap) Beckham canʼt even count 1 2 3 (clap clap), The gameʼs all over and heʼs just drinking tea (clap clap) We donʼt want him here.

My Opinion By Warren Behan Should George Bush come to Ireland?

I am in two minds about George Bush coming to Ireland. On the one hand, the reason why I donʼt want George Bush to come to Ireland is because we could be in danger of getting bombed, assas-

My Prayer to the Holy Spirit T is for my talents that you gave to me, H is for Holy that you make me, E is for everybody who likes to pray.

H is for His Lord Jesus Christ, who I will follow, O is for obeying the Lord with the help of the Holy Spirit, L is for love you have for me, Y is for the young children, who are making their Confirmation.

S is for the seven gifts I will receive from you, P is for preparation for my confirmation, I is for inspiring all of us to be good people, R is for reverencing the Lord, I is for the importance of my Confirmation, T is for teachers, who inspire and guide us.

Amen

By Ben Scott Poem for Bishop Drennan Welcome Bishop Drennan, Do you like our class?

Are you really serving our Confirmation Mass?

Itʼs that time of year when Advent begins, I hope you will forgive me for all my bad sins.

I hope that on our Confirmation day, I get the sacrament and pray, I canʼt wait to say, I love you God Hip Hip Hurray!!

Creative Writing By Ryan Moloney It has been 81,074 years since the banana turtle invasion and Ping-Pong has died about three seconds ago. You remember Ping-Pong, the collie, beagle, Great Dane, but fear not for his great great great great great great great great great great great great great great great great great grandson Ping-Pong the 15th is here to save the day. He is with Twiggy the hamster, who is afraid of small spaces and lives in a shoebox and Ralph, the Rat, who lives in a sewer and is afraid of water. They are protected against Atilla Zircon Ding Donkey Dorff, who plans to steal everyoneʼs lampshades and sell them for lamp stands. They started their journey at 22:47am.

Just outside the town of Patrokalotuss was Merlin Migiver, the Magic Mountain of Minkar. The mountain had told them that a man named Duduces of Duducurse Castle knew where Atilla Zircon was. Thus Ping-Pong, Twiggy and Ralph only heard what to do when a giant banana robot attacked and sent Twiggy Flying into the mountain.

To be continued.

My Favourite Sport By Craig McGrath My favourite sport is football. I started playing football, when I was about four and I have loved it ever since. I play with friends nearly every day and I have played for the local football team for the past year and a half. I especially love going to Ringsend Park because there is a really big Gaelic football pitch. I love Gaelic football, but I really love soccer. I even love watching it on television. Thereʼs only one Man Utd! Chess to Success by Eric Byrne One of our favourite games in Sixth Class is chess. In fourth class out teacher, Mr Booth taught us how to play chess.

It was difficult at the start but then Mr. Booth started a Chess League and we played lots of games and started to understand it better. Now we play it all the time and we even get to teach it to other people, like our teacher Miss Sherry. Itʼs a very challenging game that needs loads of concentration but once you get the hang of it, itʼs a deadly game!

Above: Music in the Classroom Awards. Performing in the National Concert hall.

PAGE 38

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

F UN D AY O UT

ON THE

B OUNCY C ASTLE

S UNDAY 15 A UGUST 2004

competition as well as face painting, football matches for all ages, penalty shootouts, D.J and much more.

I would like to thank all those people who helped to make this event so successful. Pato Walsh, our programme designer and printer, deserves special thanks.

By Derek Buckley

O

ur fun day out has been going on now for 10 years. What once started out as a bunch of lads from Murrayʼs Bar and the Lansdowne

Bar coming together to play a knockout five-a-side competition has grown immensely over the years. This year our beneficiaries are St. Michaelʼs House and previous years weʼve helped football teams and some seven years ago we donated all our

In the future we could do with a lot of help in the build up to the event to keep this special day successful. Thanks to everyone who has agreed to help out and I hope you will all enjoy the day.

Photos are from a previous ʻBouncy Castle Dayʼ.

income to help the cause of a major operation in the USA for an individual in the area.

Nowadays, children are our target and the ʻBouncy Castle Dayʼ, as the event is now nicknamed, has plenty to offer. There is a Bonny Baby

What’s Going On ••• What’s Going On ••• What’s Going On August Tuesday – Friday Afternoon 2.30 pm – 4.30 pm Why not treat yourself and visit Overends restaurant, Airfield House, Upper Kilmacud Road, Dundrum, Dublin 14 for Afternoon Tea with waitress service in these beautiful and relaxing surroundings. €15 for two people (Tel: 2984301) www.airfield.ie.

August 13, 20 and 27 Don Baker is performing at The Green Room, Holiday Inn, Pearse Street. During his final show he will be playing with Finbar Furey and Ronnie Drew. (Booking Holiday Inn at 6703666).

14 August 9.30 pm Open Air Cinema The Piano (1993 Jean Campion) at the Meeting House Square, Temple Bar. Admission Free.

Tickets must be collected during the week of the event from the Temple Bar Information Centre, 12 East Essex Street.

15 August Larry Coryell, US jazz and rock singer/guitarist is performing at The Green Room, Holiday Inn, Pearse Street. Admission €20. (Booking Holiday Inn at 6703666).

18 August 8 pm Padre Pia Prayer Group have organised a Reconciliation and Healing Mass in St Patrickʼs Church, Ringsend. All Welcome.

19 August 11.30 am – 12.30 pm Childrenʼs Tour – Have you ever seen a wallaby in Ireland?

Age 7+. National Museum of Ireland, Merrion Street. Admission Free. (6486362) 19 August 1 pm Michael Collins – ʻThe Big Fellaʼ. Join education assistant Selina OʼRegan on special lunchtime tour of the ʻRoad to Independenceʼ exhibition to commemorate the 82nd anniversary of Collinsʼ death. All ages welcome. National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street. Admission Free. (6486332) 19 August 8.30 pm Table Quiz at Clanna Gael Fontenoy, Sean Moore Road in aid of the Under 15 Hurlers trip to Glasgow.

21 August 9.30 pm Open Air Cinema Reservoir Dogs (Quentin Tarantino) at the Meeting House Square, Temple Bar. Admission Free. Tickets must be collected during the week of the event from the Temple Bar Information Centre, 12 East Essex Street.

22 – 26 August Rose of Tralee International Festival, Tralee, County Kerry 26 August 8.30pm Annual Pub Quiz in aid of RNLI in John Clarkeʼs, Irishtown.

Tables of four, €30.

28 August 9.30 pm Open Air Cinema Amadeus (Milos Foreman) at the Meeting House Square, Temple Bar. Admission Free. Tickets must be collected during the week of the event from the Temple Bar Information Centre, 12 East Essex Street.

29 August – 5 October Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival, Lisdoonvarna, Co. Clare Irelandʼs biggest singles event offers the opportunity to meet the matchmaker—and perhaps even your match. For couples and singles alike, music, dancing, horse racing, a barbecue championship, and the selection of Mr. Lisdoonvarna and the Queen of the Burren add to the fun.

29 August 3 – 4 pm Flying High, Join Falconer Eoghan Ryan and experience an up close and unique encounter with some magnificent birds of prey. Age 4+. National Museum of Ireland, Merrion Street. Admission Free.

(6486362) Sundays in September Farmersʼ Market at Farmleigh, Phoenix Park, Castleknock, Dublin 15 with producers from around the country.

To complement the market a number of leading food writers and chefs will share their favourite recipes and ideas.

(Farmleigh is accessed through Phoenix Park and is clearly signposted) www.farmleigh.ie.

3 September Sean Tyrell folk singer is performing at The Green Room, Holiday Inn, Pearse Street. Admission €12. (Booking Holiday Inn at 6703666).

5 September 3 pm Recital of Irish Traditional Music with Peter Browne, internally renowned musician. All ages welcome. National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street. Admission Free. (6486332) 14 September All Ireland Hurling Final, Croke Park, Dublin

19 September 10.30 am Harvest Festival takes place at St Matthewsʼs Church, Irishtown.

Archbishop John Neill will be in attendance. It should be a great occasion as this year celebrates the 300th Anniversary of St Mathews. All are welcome.

22 – 24 September Irish Times Higher Options, RDS, Ballsbridge. The definitive forum for third level choice for Irish Students.

2 October 12 noon A special 50th anniversary mass for Marian College will take place at the Star of the Sea Church.

11 September 12 pm Not for the Squeamish – skeletons, bog bodies, mummies, join Selina OʼRegan as she investigates the gory details. Age 7+. National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street. Admission Free.

(6486332) 26 September 3 – 4 pm Art Workshop, join Pamela Hill for an arty afternoon. Age 7+. National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street. Admission Free.

(6486332)

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

PAGE 39

The Poetry Place Mweenish Island The weather changes in a flash In the early morning the waves they crash In between the silence On this breath taken Mweenish Island I look across and thereʼs Medara The tiny church of famine days Where hundreds gathered to sadly pray Willing this scourge to go away As I sit on stones of ancient times What do they know as they gently wind In bitter winters and summers of gold So many stories to be told At Johnnyʼs cottage thereʼs the Galway hooker The Morning Star she such a looker Sheʼs been in so many places A winner in so many races Iʼm proud to have met her if only for a while As they fish these waters round the West Coast Looking so small in their tiny black boats Their hands like shovels but gentle and thorough With Salmon of silver and lobsters of blue Theyʼre coming home to you A visitor to this wondrous place To a million stars I turn my face Knowing as I laugh with glee One day soon I will be free This Island that I love so much In time to come will belong to me.

By Mary Lou Dent

Ferry Ferry Good morning Paddy not a bad day As onto the ferry they made their way Fifty men on a boat built for ten Ah sure that was back then As I stand on the jetty and stare out to sea Knee deep in water and wish it was me Hard working men in caps of grey Starting out another day Ah sure that was back then Weʼll have one in OʼConnorʼs first This sea breeze gives us a terrible thirst Sand boats cattle boats and boats from Japan Come on Noely youʼre in our gang Waiting for the whistle to blow Along the north wall they would go Staring at a lonely gull Heʼs comin to take them home They see him in the distance As down the steps go the button men Tired and weary with hooks in hand He ferries them back to Ringsend Ah sure that was then

By Mary Lou Dent

Why Worry There are only two things to worry about Either you are well or you are sick If you are well, then there is nothing to worry about But if you are sick, there are two things to worry about Either you will get well or you will die If you die then you have two things to worry about Either you go to Heaven or to Hell If you go to Heaven then there is nothing to worry about But if you go to hell You will be so darn busy shaking hands with old friends You wonʼt have time to worry.

By Anon

I Had I had some money I was pleased with that I had some success I was pleased with that I wasnʼt the money I wasnʼt the success What was I then?

I was some thing else

By Carmel McCarthy

Opinions “Opinionated as we are We cannot see things, as they are” “How do we see things then?” asked she “We see things, as we are,” said he “With tinted glasses on we go Behaving like we somehow know What others think and how they feel As if ours were, the only real reality.

And in their turn and whoʼs to blame?

They perceive us, just the same”

By Carmel McCarthy The following poem is based on all the poems from your last issue. It is my tribute to the poetry place. I hope you, your readers and your poets enjoy it. Yours Poetically Arron Noan OʼDythe

The Poetry Place (June 04) Who owned my house? Asks Carmel Mac. I be here now, You canʼt have it back.

Granny Marie minds a child Who seems to me, be very wild Nadine declares the spire is fine Sheʼs very good for a child of nine Thoughts in her head, Ailish has many For just one Iʼll give you a penny So many languages what can we do?

My dear Mary, I agree with you Jonny and India his love affair My envy of him is so unfair Michael cries for war to cease As us all he just wants peace Mr. Maherʼs, flowing black vein Perhaps the Liffey, or our criminal domain Ease her pain, a pain so blue Try and improve Doleresʼ view Be it gray or be it green Robert tells of all heʼs seen All the poets, so much talent I sense I do not wish to cause offence.

Brigid After her two bachelor brothers died, Brigid Lived on her own, never Went a place, feeding hens, Milking cows, cooking daily Meals, she enjoyed listening To the radio, hearing the News about other towns, Other cities, other countries And the weather forecast.

Walking around her small Farm, wearing a round tam Cap tightly covering her Head, she lived quietly, Close to the land, never A cross word from her lips, She never gossiped, Borrowed or stole, living Contentedly in her home.

Five people at her funeral Her passing not worth A mention, no politicians No votes, no show-offs Here, rushing to be seen.

Yet, it makes no difference, We all end up in the same Grey earth and cold clay, No matter how we live our Lives or make ends meet.

By Mary Guckian

Melody Exposed Where the path goes Lively nature flows Sun stroke stones Heavenly tones Yellow gorse explodes A naked sun transposed Soft green boughs Sweet sounds Natureʼs map a free pass Great mass rolling back Plants rocks open planes Whisper names Brown bark mustard paths Rising high in a tide of joy Mature roots pretty blooms Musical tunes Gypsy blue crashing Through silent force A rugged coast Melody exposed

By Imelda Kearney As always, we welcome contributions to The Poetry Place, which can be sent to the NewsFour offices at 15 Fitzwilliam Street, Ringsend, Dublin 4.

PAGE 40

NEWSFOUR AUGUST 2004

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