Sn issuu 42

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Slaneynews Serving Enniscorthy, Bunclody, and surrounding areas

Issue 42 - Tuesday - 1st October 2013

ItN’OsW 3F2 PRAGEES!E

Your local FREE community newspaper

Adamstown, Askamore, Ballaghkeen, Ballindaggin, Ballycarney, Ballyduff, Ballyedmond, Ballyhoge, Ballymurn, Blackwater, Boolavogue, Bree, Bunclody, Camolin, Castledockrell, Clohamon, Clonroche, Courtnacuddy, Curracloe, Enniscorthy, Ferns, Galbally, Glenbrien, Killanne, Kilmuckridge, Kilmyshall, Kiltealy, Marshalstown, Monageer, Monamolin, Oylegate, Oulart, Poulpeasty, Raheenduff, Rathnure, Screen, The Harrow.

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Jimmy Doyle (Enniscorthy Business Association) and Mary Bourke (Enniscorthy Chamber of Commerce) at the launch of the Enniscorthy Gift Voucher scheme on 13th September. Vouchers are now on sale at 4 outlets in Enniscorthy and can be used in over 70 outlets in the Enniscorthy area. Read the full story on page 4 inside.

A major solo exhibition of recent works by the acclaimed artist David Begley opens at The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, on Friday 11th of October and runs until Monday October 28th.

The exhibition features a selection of paintings and large charcoal drawings. Exhibition opening hours: Tues-Fri 10am-5pm. Sat, Sun & Bank Holiday Mon 12-5pm.

For further details see page 10 of this issue.

Tel: 053 92 33000. Email: thepresentationcentre@gmail.com or see www.facebook.com/thepresentationcentre and www.davidbegley.com.

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Slaneynews: November issue will be out on Tuesday 5th Nov 2013

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comment

WHERE CAN I PICK UP THE SLANEY NEWS?

Welcome to the bigger and better 32-page Slaney News. Please visit our Slaney News Facebook page and website and don’t forget you can read our recent issues online at: www.issuu.com/slaneynews/docs. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– A number of local, volunteer committees have been working hard to promote our town in different ways. The local committee behind the recent Council of International Investigators conference are to be commended for bringing such a major, international conference to Enniscorthy which has benefitted the town enormously in terms of retailing and tourism. Another committee that deserves our heartfelt thanks is the Enniscorthy Tidy Towns Committee. The huge work that has been put in is not reflected in the town’s marks this year – a gain of just one point overall. Any increase in points is to be welcomed and the fact that it was only a small increase is due to the fact that a sizeable number of ordinary citizens of Enniscorthy are simply not proud enough of our town to keep it clean and tidy. I hope the existing committee will stick with the task and not be too disheartened at being let down by some of their fellow citizens. Finally, the Blackstairs Blues Committee are to be congratulated for bringing the 19th instalment of this major national blues festival to Enniscorthy. It was a great weekend of top class blues. Looking forward to No. 20 next year.

– Frank Corcoran

We print 10,000 copies per issue of which 5,000 are distributed door-todoor in Enniscorthy town and 700 in Bunclody. The balance is distributed to over 170 drop-off points: ENNISCORTHY: Doyles Bar, The Duffry Gala Duffry Hope Centre Copper Pan MAD Serenity Place Storm Hair Design Cotton Tree Cafe Dawson’s Bar Crew Cuts George’s Hair Salon Landis Nosh+Coffee Galo Chargrill Hope Charity Shop Irish Wheelchair Association Charity Shop Bart’s Charity Shop Sue Ryder Charity Shop Millstream Fish Shop Polish Butcher Irish Street Bridget’s Hair Salon Brand U Get IT Fixed Rackards McG’s Danny’s Barber Shop

Darios Ultimate Nutrition –––––––––––––––––––– Greenville Stores Presentation Centre SuperValu Pettitts Mace/Maxol Bellefield Enniscorthy Cabs Quik Pick, Ross Road Doyles Checkout, The Duffry Bellefield GAA complex CWCWE Enterprise Centre Enniscorthy Voc. College Golden City Castle Bar Burger Macs The Bailey Shang Hai Riverside Park Hotel TOP shop/filling station Wickham Bros –––––––––––––––––––– Ziggys Hair Salon Smiles Dental The Barber Shop C&R Print Treacys Hotel Toss Kavanagh’s TK Cabs O’Callaghan’s Centra J Donohoe Hardware Chapel Lane Service Station Wilson’s Bar ––––––––––––––––––––

Main Post Office IFA Centre Wexford Local Development SuperValu Abbey Square Petopia Credit Union Enniscorthy Castle Post Office at Cathedral –––––––––––––––––––– Library St John’s Hospital 1798 Centre –––––––––––––––––––– Kavanagh’s Pharmacy Community Info. Service Uptown Kuts Aideen Vonno Hilltop Dry Cleaners –––––––––––––––––––– Town Council Offices River Restaurant Evolv Turkuts Citizens Advice Centre Paul’s Shoe Repair/Locks/Keys Toffee & Thyme Baked Potato O’Brien’s, Court Street Court Street Dental Clinic Court Street Medical Centre Pet Supplies Bega Barber Karl Martin Hairdressers Scissors Sisters Studio 5

Finishing Touches –––––––––––––––––––– Gala Express, Old Dublin Rd Moyne Veterinary Clinic Pump Palace Gym Co. Council Offices Kilcannon Garden Centre Enniscorthy Golf Club Martin’s Londis, Tomnalosset ADAMSTOWN: Cullen’s Gala.

BALLAGHKEEN: Donohoes Foodstore Sawdust Inn. BALLYCARNEY: Jenny’s Diner Brenda’s Hair Salon.

BALLYEDMOND/WELLS: Downes Gala Wells House.

BALLYMURN: Peter Doyle’s Costcutter.

BLACKWATER: Londis Post Office Blackwater Open Farm.

BOOLAVOGUE: Post Office Fr Murphy Centre.

BREE: BrĂ­ Beag Childcare.

BUNCLODY: Adult Learning Centre SuperValu Thirty CafĂŠ

Millrace Hotel Rivers Edge Library Post Office Sugar & Spice Daybreak, Ryland Road Eurospar Half Way House Credit Union Urban Barber Thirty CafĂŠ Chevue Studio Econ Fuels.

CAIM: Rackards.

CAMOLIN: C&K Takeaway Christy Byrne’s, Butcher Post Office.

CLONROCHE: Kavanagh’s Gala Greene’s Shop Post Office Larkin’s Shop.

CURRACLOE: Cloney’s Shop Post Office FERNS: Beauty by Sarah Centra Applegreen Ferns Barber Post Office Bolgers Hardware Courtyard

Forrest’s CafÊ & Bookstore Rynhart Hair Design Ferns Community Centre Ferns Castle Launderette Daybreak.

KILMUCKRIDGE: Londis Centra Sean Ă“gs Hotel.

KILTEALY/BALLINDAGGIN: Kiltealy Post Office.

MARSHALSTOWN: Murphy’s.

MONAGEER Monageer Tavern / Corner Shop.

OULART: Corrigan’s Londis Post Office.

OYLEGATE: Garrys Service Station.

RATHNURE: Post Office WEXFORD: Maldron Hotel O’Briens, Redmond Sq O’Briens, Main St Nosh & Dosh, Redmond Sq Yard Restaurant Wexford Arts Centre Wexford Service Station, Newtown Road.

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SLANEY NEWS, CLONHASTON, ENNISCORTHY Tel: 087-2403310 slaneynews@gmail.com PUBLISHED in Enniscorthy by Corcoran Print & Design PRINTED in Enniscorthy by Datascope Ltd. and READ in Enniscorthy, Bunclody and the surrounding areas by up to 20,000 people (based on estimated average readership of two people per copy).

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Every effort has been made to ensure that all articles published in Slaney News are true and accurate but if any errors do occur please let us know and we will gladly rectify them in our next issue.

Where details of future events are given in this newspaper, we recommend that you check these details directly with the organisers as event details may be subject to change.

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The Slaney News is now online at www.issuu.com/slaneynews so that you, and your friends and relations all over the world, can now read each issue online as soon as it is published.

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Slaney News

Enniscorthy’s new Gift Voucher Twenty Euro

.......

.......

Date:

Issued by: and This voucher can be used to purchase goods

rthy. It cannot be services from participating businesses in Ennisco ENNISCORTHY CREDIT UNION

..

cashed.

IN BUSINESS FOR BUSINESS

Enniscorthy’s new Gift Voucher ellers, DIY, dry cleaners and The vouchers are in €10 scheme was officially launched many more. and €20 denominations and on 13th September in the The President of Enniscorthy are on sale in four outlets: Riverside Park Hotel. It is a Chamber, Michael Bennett, said: Enniscorthy Credit Union, partnership b e t w e e n “We are really excited about Byrnes Bookshop, Hilltop Dry Enniscorthy Chamber of this venture and we are launch- Cleaners and Frizelle-O'Leary Commerce and the Enniscorthy ing it well in time before Solicitors. A list of particiwith the Christmas. We are confident it pating shops will accompany Business Association, € assistance of Enniscorthy Credit will be embraced by all the loyal each voucher. The shops and Union and is based on similar Enniscorthy shoppers and will businesses accepting vouchsuccessful schemes in other help support local business and ers Date: are: Issued by: thereby support local jobs."

Aideen towns, notably Dungarvan. be cashed.Salon rthy. It cannot Hair EnniscoVonno in es business ting participa to purchase goods and services from This voucher can be used Over 70 shops handling just Mark Kavanagh of Hilltop ATB Tyres& Batteries one voucher will make it easy Dry Cleaners, who along with Baked Potato CORTHY Billy Doyle's for customers to buy gifts and Mary Bourke of WalterENNIS Bourke CREDIT UNION services in the town thereby Jewellers, did much of the spade- Bolger's Hardware & DIY supporting local jobs and busi- work to get the scheme up and Breda's nesses. The list of outlets includes running, said: "The Chamber Bridget's Hair Salon boutiques, hair salons, shoe and the E.B.A. worked closely on Burke O'Leary's shops, restaurants, hotels, this very successful project and J.J. Murphy menswear, pharmacies, jew- we are delighted with the results." Hilltop Dry Cleaners

Ten Euro

10

Jimmy Doyle (Enniscorthy Business Association) and Mary Bourke (Enniscorthy Chamber of Commerce) at the launch of the Enniscorthy Gift Voucher scheme on 13th September.

Enniscorthy Gift Voucher

20

€

..

1 October 2013

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Enniscorthy Gift Voucher

IN BUSINESS FOR BUSINESS

Ibar Carty Karl Martin Kavanagh Giftware Kavanagh's Pharmacy Kilcannon Garden Centre & Restaurant Mahady Breen's Byrne’s Bookshop Modern Fashions Chris Kavanagh Antiques Monart Destination Spa Cloze & Shooz Murt Walsh Menswear Cooney's Home Bakery My Sport CWCW Bellefield Ottiva Boutique Danny's Angling & Outdoor Petopia Danny's Barbers Put a Bow On It Doyle's Butchers

Reid's Off Licence DV8 Riverside Park Hotel Elizabeth's Babatique Sam McCauley's English's Stores Saria Enniscorthy Castle Serenity Nails & Beauty Enniscorthy Electrical Siopa Brog Enniscorthy Golf Club Smyths Arro Eric Barron Sofia's Choice Evolv Healthstore Stafford's Butchers Farrell's Pharmacy Studio 5 Finishing Touches Tantrum Footprints

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Tech Tip

by Sam power

GeT iT Fixed enniScorThy

android Phone & tablet security According to Juniper's third annual Mobile Threat report, Android users are partly responsible for the increase in security attacks. The report analysed over 1.85 million apps and found the number of malicious apps rose by 614% over the past year, with 92% of these targeting android devices, compared to 24% in 2010.

With the rise in smartphone and tablet ownership, these devices are becoming more attractive than PCs to criminals. Juniper said the real danger here is that people don't take mobile security seriously. Many Android users don't bother to install security software or update it, even though it's often free.

They went on to say that 77% of threats would be eliminated if all Android devices were simply updated to latest version of operating system. Also, despite warnings from security companies not to, users continue to download apps from unofficial third party app stores instead of sticking to the Google Play Store.

Juniper says there are more than 500 stores selling malicious apps, 60% of which originate in China or Russia.

The company also found that at least 70% of the latest Android threats target flaws in mobile payment apps. An estimated 50% of people use banking or send payments from Android devices, a trend which criminals have been quick to exploit.

Gartner analysts have estimated that over one billion Android devices will be sold next year and that over 75% of all phones sold in 2013 will be android devices.

As ever if you have queries about this article or you’d like me to talk about a tech issue that interests or concerns you, then pop me an email at sam@getitfixed.ie, or you can phone the shop on 053 9238544. n

A private eye view of Enniscorthy On Friday 20th September I had the pleasure of attending the Black Tie Ball for the 59th Annual Conference of International Investigators at the Riverside Park Hotel – a first for Enniscorthy and County Wexford.

An elegant and most memorable occasion as the 120 strong group of International Investigators from across the globe gathered with notable locals including Minister Paul Kehoe, Bishop Denis Brennan, Chairman of Wexford Town C o u n c i l Te d H o w l i n , Archdeacon Chris Long, Tony Larkin, Padraig O’Gorman, Vice Chairman of Enniscorthy Town Council James Browne, Chief Superintendent John Roche and celebrity guest speaker Attorney General Marie Whelan for a Champagne Reception to launch proceedings.

There wasn’t a dishevelled Columbo in a tatty rain mac to be seen – the men looked dap-

per and polished in their dress suits and bow ties and the ladies wear was in the main black and sequined either long or short. There were one or two exceptions of brilliant blue, a most exquisite white designer ensemble and the Attorney General herself wearing a classy champagne coloured dress with black patterned jacket. The chat was friendly and animated with many Enniscorthians going to great efforts to be gracious and sociable and their International counterparts only too eager to reciprocate. By the time we adjourned to the ballroom for our sumptuous repast we were all bfs sharing life experiences – theirs I have to say in the main rather more entertaining and unusual than ours.

I had the good fortune of sharing my table with a PI from Sacramento by the name of Robert Wallace, his wife Shirley and niece Kathleen – none of whom had ever been to Ireland

The talented Lambert Sisters provided the music during the meal.

Pic: Maria Nolan.

before nor indeed had any Irish connections. They were completely taken with Enniscorthy saying what a truly picturesque place it is and they were equally overwhelmed with the friendliness of the people. In fact Kathleen said that she has already spoken with her husband (at home in Sacramento) about holidaying in Ireland in the near future. What an endorsement of Enniscorthy and Wexford!

Between main course and desert whilst the talented Lambert Sisters delicately plucked elegant airs from their harps, Robert Wallace spoke extensively about his area of expertise investigating the disappearance of children during and after divorce proceedings.

A most worthwhile and rewarding career in his opinion and one that he had enjoyed for the past thirty odd years he said recounting tales of broken homes and kidnapped children and his part in finding them and reuniting them with their lawful guardians. An eloquent and interesting man and the perfect dining companion.

Speaking of eloquent men our own versatile Jimmy Gahan did us proud as MC for the event as he introduced the speakers – Marie Whelan Attorney General who complimented the Organising Committee of Michael Bennett, Tony Fagan and Jimmy Gahan and expounded the virtues of main man Derek Nally for his ethics and high standards in Investigating and his ethos that there is ‘never a wrong time to do the right thing’. She went on to pay tribute to his life

Mingling in the foyer at CII Conference. Pic: Maria Nolan.

which she said was `a pursuit of justice and integrity and a battle against the abuse of power`.

Society Ms. Whelan said would always need its Derek Nallys.

The Riverside audience then witnessed outgoing President Mr. Eduard Siegrist from the Netherlands hand over his Chain of Office to the incoming President Mr. John Sexton from Donegal who was sworn in by local Solicitor and member of CII Tony Ensor and treated the audience to a 3 minute visual presentation on his home county to the strains of Paul Brady`s unusual interpretation of the song The Homes of Donegal. Mr. Galen Clements was bestowed with the Investigator of the Year Award and delegates from Singapore and Vietnam were applauded for travelling the

longest distances to the Conference.

Before concluding formalities and handing over to Sean Boland to provide the musical entertainment for the rest of the evening Mr. Gahan said that it had been a wonderful couple of days with delegates from over 16 Nations including Netherlands, Canada, Ukraine, Germany, France, Sweden, Finland, India, Singapore, Costa Rica, Vietnam, Switzerland and the UK and USA net working and establishing contact with each other. He hoped they had all enjoyed their stay in Enniscorthy and Riverside Park Hotel and that they would carry home many treasured memories of CII Conference 2013 and it would be his fervent wish that they would come back to see us again bringing

Call the Slaneynews Hotline on 087-2403310

family and friends with them.

At the end of the evening I was sad to take my leave of these most fascinating people who are sharp, proficient, intelligent, interesting, entertaining and well travelled but I was elated to hear their wonderful endorsement of my town and its people and excited to think that these positive vibes might be dispersed across their 16 nations which can only augur well for our tourist industry going forward.

Well done to anyone who had anything to do with bringing the illustrious event to Enniscorthy.

And finally one last thing next year’s Conference will be held in San Franciso – any chance that Slaney News would like me to cover it??

– Maria Nolan

8

Slaney News

The Pearl of Our Town Anyone who loves our wonderful, beautiful and historic town of Enniscorthy also loves our river Slaney. The Slaney is the “pearl” of our town and one of our most valuable assets and we the people of Enniscorthy want it to stay that way!

However, I wonder how many of us realise that much of our Slaney may soon be hidden from view! Yes, present plans are to build walls as high as 3 metres on the banks of the Slaney to stop future flooding! While nobody wants flooding to cause damage to anyone’s property, neither do we want the beauty of our town compromised by unsightly flood barriers. The future commerce of Enniscorthy is increasingly dependent on attracting tourists; therefore hiding our river will be detrimental to all our futures!

However, in conjunction with the Enniscorthy Business Association, we have formed a Committee and with the help of a professional Hydrologist (water engineer), we believe that some of the present plans can be modified. These will minimise the “hiding” of the Slaney and yet give all the necessary pro-

1 October 2013

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tection from flood damage.

Part of this plan is the proper dredging of the river. The present bed of the river could be lowered reducing the chance of future flooding. In fact, this is the way the river was tended down the past centuries and it is only in the last 100 years that the bed of the river has been allowed to rise increasing the flood risk.

As Harry O’Connor, Slaney Search and Rescue, puts it: “We do not want to change the Slaney but merely to restore it to the way it was”!

The sand and gravel which was dredged by scabbards (large wooden boats that removed sand by hand from the river), were used to build the Enniscorthy we know today.

By lowering the river bed, flooding will be minimised and the river used as an amenity for both boating and fishing as it always was.

Then, Enniscorthy will be visited by an increasing number of tourists, attracted by our beautiful river, not only to use it as a water amenity but also to visit the other amazing attractions such as the Castle, the 1798 Centre, Vinegar Hill and many other places of interest.

And so, as we reconsider the importance of the Slaney today, it’s also interesting to stand back and see what a vital part it has played since the foundation of our town over 1,500 years ago. No doubt St Senan decided to build his church because of the Slaney and the ford that was where the old bridge stands today.

Some four centuries ago, at the end of the 16th century, there were no roads, only tracks. Then, Enniscorthy was a mere hamlet and the Castle was in ruins! So, without proper roads, the Slaney was the only thoroughfare for the movement of goods and travel.

Our first industry, believe it or not, was started by Henry Wallop who had been sent over from England by Queen Elizabeth 1st. He immediately realised the great potential that the vast oak forest held extending west to the Blackstairs and north into Co Wicklow. However, this forest was inhabited by marauding and pillaging Kavanaghs who frequently raided the town.

So as Henry Wallop needed protection, he rebuilt the castle we believe more or less as it stands today. The Castle had originally been built in the 13th century to guard the

Picture taken of people enjoying the river at Enniscorthy Bridge on 21st July 2013. Note the sand banks at the Templeshannon Quay. Pic: Ger Carty.

David Hasslacher is a member of a committee looking at alternatives to the existing flood relief plan for Enniscorthy. ford that crossed the Slaney. So right from the start our beautiful Slaney was the centre and most important part of our ancient town.

The Wallops, soon to become the Earls of Portsmouth, began cutting the huge oak baulks and floating them down the Slaney to be fashioned into barrel staves and exported to England.

Henry Wallop also made some of the oak into charcoal to smelt iron, importing iron ore from England, as by the end of the 16th century England

had used much of its oak and so he had a ready market on his doorstep.

Whilst Henry Wallop rebuilt the Castle he actually lived in the old Franciscan Abbey beside the Slaney, as by this time dissolution of the monasteries had taken place.

When the Franciscan monks built their Abbey, they realised the importance of being beside the Slaney, because it contained plenty of fish, was beside a growing population and was the main method of travel in those far-off days.

But Henry Wallop also needed the river to supply his garrison with food, arms and provisions. So he built two gun-boats armed with cannons that plied the Slaney from Enniscorthy to Wexford.

So just as the Slaney was vital to Henry Wallop, the Franciscans and the people of Enniscorthy then, it is just as important for us today for our town to remain attractive, useful and beautiful. May the Slaney continue to be the “Pearl of Our Town”!

– David Hasslacher

“Getting to Know You” in Enniscorthy Many of the groups, clubs and organisations of the Enniscorthy Community Forum came together for an informal ‘Getting to Know You’ event at Bellefield GAA Complex on Thursday 19th September.

Over refreshments the various bodies introduced themselves and said a little about the organisations they represented and what they hoped to achieve in conjunction with the Forum.

The new Chairperson of the Enniscorthy Forum Maria Nolan welcomed everyone from Strawberry Fair, Oylegate Community Development, Enniscorthy Camera Club, Friends of St. Johns, Enniscorthy Parish Council and Finance C o m m i t t e e , R a p p a re e s / Starlights, Enniscorthy Drama, GAA Social Initiative, Blackwater Tidy Towns and Scouts, Bunclody Active Retirement and Residents Association, Disabled

Association, Visually Impaired, FDYS and more. She said a special thank you to County We x f o rd Community Chairperson Lucy Medlycott for attending.

Maria said that the purpose of the evening was to revamp and in some ways reinvent the Community Forum in the Enniscorthy area. The Forum came into being she said in the good times when there was funding available and this was obviously a huge attraction with a lot of groups, areas and communities doing well from it. Since then unfortunately, a lot of the funding had dried up and interest among the groups had waned but she said there was still a lot to be gained through participation. Maria said that she wanted the groups now to concentrate on other aspects of membership where the Forum would be an opportunity for them to network, build linkages, consult and be

Social Inclusion Grants – County Wexford Community Forum Applications are invited for grant assistance for Social Inclusion Projects. This is open to all Community Groups affiliated to County Wexford Community Forum.

Interested groups should apply to Community Development, Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford before 5.00pm Wednesday, 16th October, 2013.

Contact details 053 9196557 maryt.kehoe@wexfordcoco.ie

Some of the ladies who attended the recent Enniscorthy Community Forum Get Together. L-R: Anne Gilpin (Strawberry Fair), Maria del Pilar (FDYS), Lucy Medleycott (Chairperson of Wexford Community Forum), Theresa Casey (Parish Council), Breda O’Sullivan (Visually Impaired), Catherine Murphy (People with Disabilities), Maria Nolan (Chairperson of the Enniscorthy Community Forum).

consulted on a wide variety of topics relating to social, economic and cultural development of their areas and the county. There was a wealth of information, experience, expertise and knowledge between the 600 groups that make up the County Wexford Community Forum and the sharing of this was its real asset.

Maria then called on Lucy Medlycott to address the meeting. Lucy reiterated all that Maria had to say and thanked her for her initiative in organising the meeting. Lucy out-

lined her wishes as the new Chair to the County Forum and said that there was a lot of work to be done and she was happy and willing to work with the Enniscorthy area along with New Ross, Gorey and Wexford. She said that plans were being formulated to roll out a Training Programme for all the organisations under the following headings: 1. Committee Skills 2. Communication/ Marketing 3. Corporate Governance in each of the areas.

Lucy also informed the meeting that applications for Social Inclusion Grants would be sent out to the groups shortly and also a comprehensive update of the database had just been completed – a massive body of work – and she handed out copies to all in attendance saying that this information would be invaluable to them. Lucy had also compiled an Information Pack for the groups which included the Forum Constitution and Membership Application Form. Lucy said that it was through the Forum

that groups and organisations were given a voice with members of the Forum sitting on County Enterprise Board, Joint Policing Committees, Housing Committee, Sports Active Wexford, Transportation, County Childcare Committee, Regional Drugs Taskforce and Wexford County Development Board.

The meeting concluded with members happy to have attended and pleased that the Enniscorthy Community Forum was moving forward in the right direction.

Slaney News

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9

donohoes hArdwAre the Home & Hardware Experts

toolbox tips: sweep a chimney Advice & hints from your locAl hArdwAre teAm HOW TO sWEEp a CHiMnEy… As the evenings draw in your thoughts may turn to stocking up on winter fuel. But sometimes we forget a very essential part of the autumn/winter routine. When you burn solid fuel you need to clean your chimney at least twice a year. A clean chimney will help burn fuel more efficiently; help prevent smoke from entering a room from down draughts, remove the build up of soot and reduce the chance of a chimney fire.

So if you haven’t done it already, now is the time to clean your chimney. It’s a dirty job, but someone’s got to do it, and a bit of preparation will prevent soot from going everywhere! Also a dust mask, gloves and goggles are handy to have when doing this kind of work. Always check your chimney sweeping brush and rod kit. You wouldn't want one coming apart halfway up your chimney!

We have sets in-store and replacement rods. We also have all the other essentials you need together with a huge selection of fireside accessories and winter fuel.

1. When cleaning a chimney, the first and most important safety concern is that you should not have any fires going when starting the cleaning process. Remove the fire fret & grate, old ash and any other items which might get in your way.

Lower Templeshannon, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford T: 053 924 2432 or 924 2433 f: 053 924 2435 E: hardware@jdonohoe.com

2. Clear a good work space and put a plastic sheet or drop cloths to keep flooring, carpets and furniture clean.

3. Firmly screw the brush head on to one of the rod sections.

4. Cut a slit in the centre of a plastic sheet or cardboard panel wide enough for the rod of the brush head to fit in.

5. Place the brush side on the inside, inserting the brush into the chimney.

Leave the rod sticking out through the hole.

6. Securely tape the plastic sheet or cardboard to fire surround. Make sure there are no little holes for the soot to escape. The taped up barrier will help contain the soot and debris as you sweep and minimise the amount of dusting after the job is done.

7. Work the brush and rod ‘up & down’ pushing it straight up the chimney, add the next section of rod.

8. Never force the brush kit too hard. If you hit a blockage try removing the brush head and passing just the rod up the chimney. If in doubt, call a registered professional.

9. Attach the next rod and continue to work the brush 'up & down' (don't twist it or it may come undone!) and attach additional lengths work-

months. It just tells you how bad the litter problem is – in spite of all the efforts by Council S t a f f , t h e Ti d y To w n Community Employment Scheme and the extra Volunteers, litter is still a major problem. I have seen the Tidy Town FÁS workers (soon to known as SOLAS) picking all the litter off the Esmonde Road only for it to be almost as badly littered the next day. Solving the

The attractive side of our town – Enniscorthy in bloom

litter crisis in Enniscorthy is still a major uphill struggle.

The headings Litter Control and Tidiness remain our worst performing areas. In my opinion one of the main issues we have to address is the lack of attention to detail. We who live in the town and walk around it each day might not notice small things but an Adjudicator seeking out our blemishes will notice them even if he does not record all of them in his Report.

An example of what I’m talking about: the other day I was visiting Ibar Carty’s Photographic Studio in Castle Street and when I left I crossed over the street to go up Church Street and I stopped at the Tourist Information Display Panel before I turned into Church Street and lo and behold what do I see underneath the display panel at the base of the wall but a collection of weeds, including 12 ragwort, and tufts of grass. Any Adjudicator worth his salt should spot such a gross insult to the tidiness of any town. He didn’t mention it in his Report but I’m sure he took on board the thought that if he could find such neglect of tidiness in the centre of the town that it was general throughout the town and approach roads.

We a re l o s i n g o u t t o t h e

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ing the brush ‘up & down’ with each rod addition until the brush head finds fresh air.

Be fairly gentle when brushing out the top chimney pot. Old pots can often have very weak mortar holding them in place and there may be a cowl or crow guard fixed to the top of the pot.

Start to pull the brush back down and remove each section of rod as you go.

After cleaning, use a flashlight to check the chimney to see if it is completely clean. Use an Ash Vac or an old vacuum to clean up all of the dust, grime and soot in the fireplace. Remember to sweep or vacuum out any debris from the top of the fire back. Once you are sure it is clean, remove the screen and clean around the hearth.

Clean and wash the outer fireplace surfaces, if necessary. Replace the fire grate & fret.

Now when you sit you can toast your toes to your heart’s delight.

If you are unsure about any of these tasks or if you have concerns, call in a registered professional.

for more hints & toolbox tips… facebook.com / jdonohoeproviders

free pArking … free delivery … free professionAl Advice Open 8am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday & through lunch every weekday and 8.30am to 1pm on Saturdays

2013 Tidy Town Report by Sean Doyle After some delay we have received the 2013 Tidy Town Report as a result of the Tidy Town Adjudicator visiting Enniscorthy on Friday, 28th June.

Our marks went up by one overall. We gained the extra mark under the heading ‘Litter Control’. No doubt some people are disappointed, particularly after all the work put in

by Volunteers over the summer

10.

Walter

Kenmares and Killarneys by our lack of attention to detail.

During our summer activities of picking litter we noticed another major problem in Enniscorthy, the prevalence of cigarette butts in public places, which was mentioned by the Adjudicator. A short account of some other issues mentioned by the Adjudicator – painting of the Athenaeum not carried out, planting at the Fire Station and Garda Station needs attention, letting down buildings old and new was the Courthouse with its rotting, wooden doors, leaking drain pipes and weeds, and some housing estates strewn with drinks containers. I haven’t included all the negative comments of the Adjudicator and, of course, there were many positives he listed in his Report which would take another article to cover. I have gone through the Adjudicator’s Report and I have created three separate lists – (1) negatives listed in the Report (2) positives listed and (3) Adjudicator’s recommendations and general comments.

I can make them available to anyone interested.

Any rational person, particularly a person familiar with all the streets, buildings and approach roads of Enniscorthy

couldn’t disagree seriously with 2013 Tidy Town Report as it applies to the town. If we are serious about achieving a bronze or gold medal we will have to get tougher on litter louts and open our eyes and pay attention to detail. We should also realise that litter pickers will not lift grit, debris, and weeds. The shovel

and a good strong yard brush are still very useful in 2013.

The Government should have a hard look at existing Litter and Dumping laws and strengthen them where it is necessary.

– Seán Doyle Secretary/ Treasurer, Enniscorthy Tidy Town Association.

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Thursdays 5.30pm and 7.30pm Millrace Hotel Main street

contact Maria 086 4141212

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Looking forward to seeing you there SW on

10

Slaney Entertainment

1 October 2013

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The Presentation Centre Adult Art Classes Painting with Julie Moorhouse There is still space available on the Wednesday morning class with award winning local artist Julie Moorhouse. Classes run 11am-1pm and cater for all levels.

For further information contact the centre on 053 92 33000.

A Solo Exhibition of Recent Works

by David Begley Opens at The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, on Friday 11th of October and runs until Monday October 28th.

Bunclody-based Begley’s paintings are inspired by mythological, art historical and literary themes, utilising classical and contemporary techniques and drawing upon invention as much as observation. This exhibition features a selection of paintings and large charcoal drawings.

Exhibition opening hours: Tues-Fri 10am-5pm; Sat, Sun & Bank Holiday Mon 12-5pm.

David Begley Reading Sunday 27 October, 3.30pm To coincide with the exhibition David will be reading from his work-in-progress ‘Bone Black’. ‘Bone Black’ is a work of fiction which David began writing earlier this year. The reading is a free event, booking is essential: contact The Presentation Centre at 053 92 33000 or thepresentationcentre@gmail.com

David Begley and his painting ‘The Fifth Song for Mark’

About ‘Bone Black’ – David Begley began writing ‘Bone Black’ in 2013. Set in the villages of Splum and Bladderwrack, the story features a gardener who yearns to paint and a doctor who paints in his spare time but desperately wishes to fly. www.facebook.com/thepresentationcentre and www.davidbegley.com

Life Drawing Workshop with David Begley Saturday 9 Nov 10am - 4.30pm [€65 nine places only].

Intensive one-day workshop working from a model including demonstration of tools, mark-making exercises, short poses and fixed pose. For all levels.

Anatomy, proportion, composition and the figure in space.

Contact David Begley Tel: 087 1227310 www.davidbegley.com

Room to Record Workshops October mid-term break An introduction to the principles of music production, sound recording and live sound for fledgling artists, aged 15 – 18 years.

The course is sponsored by Co Wexford Arts Department, The Presentation Centre and Enniscorthy Town Council so participation is FREE (places are limited to 10 participants).

The next course will take place during the Halloween mid- term break, Tues 29 Oct to Sat 2 Nov 2013 and auditions for places will be held at The Presentation Centre Enniscorthy on Sat 19 October.

To book an audition or for further information please contact info@orchardrecording.ie or www.facebook.com/theorchardrecordingstudio

Learn to Draw with Desmond McCarthy Learn the wonderful skills of drawing in pencil, graphite and charcoal; tackle simple and what may seem difficult subjects. Suitable for beginners and experienced artists, your new skills will be of immense value for your compositions and paintings (dates to be announced).

Enquiries 053 92 33000.

Youth Arts Programme

What’s On at a Glance 03 Oct

The Wexford Song Project presents The Song Collectors Collective a presentation by James McDonald Thursday 3 October, 8pm London-based James McDonald, a traditional singer from Gorey, will present an illustrated presentation on the newly launched website of the Song Collectors Collective.

In 2012 and 2013, the collective undertook recording trips in Britain and Ireland amongst Traveller and Gypsy communities, revealing ancient and previously

unknown songs kept alive in oral tradition by some of the finest singers James around, now featuring McDonald on the www.songcollectorscollective.co.uk All are welcome and admission is free.

Some participants in the Wexford Song Project

The Wexford Song Project A new initiative dedicated to promoting traditional song in County Wexford, will continue to meet fortnightly up to January 2014 and new participants are always welcome. The first half of each session focuses on resources, collections and individual Wexford songs, while the second half takes the format of a back-toback singing session.

The Wexford Song Project is supported by the Arts Department of Wexford County Council.

Further information contact Aileen Lambert 087 7552593 or aileenlambert@gmail.com or see www.facebook.com/wexfordsongproject Next meeting Thursday 10 October, 8pm.

03 Oct Spaces still available. Please contact the Centre about enrolment.

Tuesdays 9-11am St Aidan’s Parent & Toddler Group with artist Oonagh Latchford Evening Wexford Artist Community Theatre 5-6pm 5-8yrs 6-7pm 8-12yrs 7-9pm 12+yrs Wednesdays 4-5.30pm Creative Kidz Dance Project with Myriad Dance (8-12yrs) Thursdays Evening Red Moon Theatre 4pm Drama U12s 5pm Art U12s 6-7.30pm Youth Theatre 12+yrs

11 Oct 19 Oct 25 Oct

27 Oct

ME time Coffee Time - a coffee morning to promote positive mental health. In advance of World Mental Health Day on 10 October, all proceeds to Mental Health Ireland. Welcome address at 11am

by Linda Thorpe, Development Officer Mental Health Ireland.

Artwork from the Link group will be on show. All are welcome.

10am-12pm.

Wexford Song Project hosts the Song Collectors Collective, Adm Free. 8pm.

Launch of David Begley exhibition.

Room to Record auditions.

Camross Drama Group presents three one-act plays: ‘Losers’ by Brian Friel as their festival play plus ‘Last Panto in Little Grimley’ by David Tristram and ‘When I was God’ by Cónal Creedon.

Tickets: 053 92 33000. Adm €10. 8pm.

A reading with David Begley, 3.30pm.

For FurTher inFormaTion:

email: thepresentationcentre@gmail.com to subscribe to e-newsletter.

Tel: 053 92 33000.

See ‘The Presentation Centre’ on Facebook and don’t forget to ‘Like’ us!

Slaney Entertainment

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Jamie’s Good News I would like to apologise for the lack of a column last month but I was very, very busy. The newly formed Enniscorthy Drama Group, of which I am a proud member, were putting on their inaugural performances.

And I am delighted to say that the production I tread the boards with, Ritual For Dolls, is heading to the All-Ireland Drama Festival! The dates of the performances are: Dundrum, 7th November.

Goresbridge, Kilkenny, 15th November.

Rossmore, Clonakilty, 16th November.

Gorey, 22nd November.

Hope to see some or all of you on the road!!!

No Place like Home In the first of my Wizard of Oz pieces, I went into detail about the pre-production and filming of said film. Now it’s time to focus on the sometimes torturous post-production, reception and endurance in popular culture!

Test screenings of the film began on June 5, 1939. Oz initially was running nearly two hours long. LeRoy and Fleming knew that at least a quarter of an hour needed to be deleted to get the film down to a manageable running time, the average film in 1939 running just about 90 minutes. Three sneak previews in Santa Barbara, Pomona and San Luis Obispo, California helped guide LeRoy and Fleming in the cutting.

Among the many cuts was "The J i t t e r b u g " n u m b e r, t h e Scarecrow's elaborate dance sequence following "If I Only Had a Brain", a reprise of "Over the Rainbow" and "Ding Dong the Witch Is Dead", and a number of smaller dialogue sequences. This left the final, mostly serious portion of the film with no songs, only the dramatic underscoring.

One song that was almost deleted was "Over the

View From The Nosebleeds Rainbow". MGM had felt that it made the Kansas sequence too long, as well as being far over the heads of the target audience of children. The studio also thought that it was degrading for Judy Garland to sing in a barnyard. Producer Mervyn LeRoy, uncredited associate producer Arthur Freed, and director Victor Fleming fought to keep it and eventually won. The song went on to win the Academy Award for Best Song of the Year. In 2004, the song was ranked #1 by the American Film Institute on AFI's 100 Years…100 Songs list.

After the preview in San Luis Obispo in early July, The Wizard of Oz was officially

released in August 1939 at its current 101-minute running time.

Beginning with the 1949 reissue, and continuing until the film's 50th anniversary VHS release in 1989, the opening Kansas sequences were shown in black and white instead of the sepia tone as originally filmed (this includes television showings). This was done despite the fact that the sepia had been specifically chosen for the picture to help mask the switch to Technicolor. The actual switch occurs before the door is opened from the transported house onto the Land of Oz. In the sepia prints, one doesn't notice any colour until that door is opened, because the door itself is a shade of brown which matches the sepia. In black and white, one cannot help but notice the switch to colour before the door is opened, which was precisely what the film's producers wanted to avoid. For the film's 50th anniversary [VHS] restoration, the sepia was brought back to the opening and closing Kansas scenes and beginning in 1990, the film was shown on CBS television in the U.S. as originally released in 1939, with the opening and

closing credits and the Kansas scenes in sepia.

1955 saw the release of a widescreen 1.85:1 aspect ratio version to theatres, with portions of the top and the bottom of the film removed via soft mattes to produce a widescreen effect.

The re-release trailer falsely claimed that "every scene" from L. Frank Baum's novel was in the film, including the rescue of Dorothy, despite there being no such incident in his novel.

In 1986, the film was acquired by Tu r n e r Entertainment as part of a deal involving a majority of MGM's pre-1986-87 library. In 1996, Turner merged with Time Warner, and since then Warner Bros Pictures has been handling distribution for all media on Turner's behalf.

The film was re-released again in U.S. theatres by WB on November 6, 1998. The version was a newly restored and remastered print with a remixed stereo soundtrack. It also featured restoration and sound remixing credits at the end (none of these extra credits have appeared on any home video release).

On September 23, 2009, The Wizard of Oz was re-released in select theatres for a onenight-only event in honour of the film's 70th Anniversary and as a promotion for various new disc releases later in the month.

However, an encore of this event was re-released in theatres on November 17, 2009.

You know, i have always loved being scared, whether it was jumping off a wall ten times my height, running through the darkness or watching that film that you shouldn’t watch.

There are certain films that consistently give me the scares such as The Exorcist, The Texas C h a i n s a w M a s s a c re , T h e Grudge, films that tear at your brain, your heart and your nervous system. The first Insidious movie was not terrible, it maintained my interest and delivered some scares in the first half but then it disappeared into a load of mumbo jumbo and debunked all the good work done in the first half. The second time around, the scares maintain consistency and the mumbo jumbo makes complete sense this time around!

Let’s go back in time for a bit for those uninitiated or unfamiliar with the film. The first film tells the tale of a young boy who mysteriously falls into a coma and weird stuff happens in his family home causing his parents to call in a paranormal

On June 30, 2012, the film had a theatrical re-release in the U.S. at the Saban Theatre in Beverly Hills. It was hosted by the Los Angeles Conservancy using an original copy of the film from the 1939 release. An IMAX 3D theatrical re-release was played in theatres for one week beginning September 20, 2013, as part of the film's 75th anniversary. Warner Bros. has spent $25 million on a campaign, including extensive advertising, for the film's 75th anniversary, which opens the newly restored and remodelled Grauman's Chinese Theatre, now called TCL Chinese Theatre (the site of the Hollywood premiere of The Wizard of Oz seventy-five years ago), and to be shown as a special presentat i o n a t t h e 2 0 1 3 To ro n t o International Film Festival.

So that just goes to show that they don’t make films like that anymore, the enduring appeal of this film is still felt today.

Writer Salman Rushdie said of the film, "The Wizard of Oz was my very first literary influence. When I first saw The Wizard of Oz it made a writer of me." Indeed his first short story, written at the age of ten, was titled "Over the Rainbow".

Do yourself a favour and go dig out your copy of the film.

Every house should have one, and if you don’t get one! Dig it out, turn down the lights, strike a match on the fire and take a trip over the rainbow….

investigator. Not to give too much away but it builds to a huge climax and people bite the bullet!! Now the second time around, we begin in the 1980’s with the father of the Lambert family, Josh (Patrick Wilson) as an eight year old who is also experiencing weird phenomena in the home and his mother is at her wit’s end. You with me so far? Good, because that’s all you’re getting. Cut back to the present day and Josh is back in

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Your “cut out and keep”

OCTOBER ENTERTAINMENT All venues are in Enniscorthy unless otherwise stated.

Oct 3-5 Fri 4 Fri 4 Fri 4 Fri 4 Fri 4 Sat 5

Tuesdays wiTh Morrie. Drama. Wexford Arts Centre. disCo Bar. Vinnie’s Bar & Lounge, Island Road. house TeChno. The Bailey. See page 30. nero. DBar. ronan Quigley. Temple Bar, Treacy’s.

KaraoKe with Julie. Castle Bar. roho nightclub Bunclody. Doors 10pm. 18+. www.facebook.com/rohobunclody.

Sat 5 Bees Knees. Temple Bar, Treacy’s.

J90. Benedicts.

Sun 6 reillys Men. DBar. Carlsberg Music Trail.

Sun 6 JaCK The lad. Temple Bar, Treacy’s.

Sun 6 hiTs froM The MusiCals. EMS. Riverside Park Hotel.

Sun 6 CaThy davey. Music. Wexford Arts Centre.

Thur 10 Fri 11 disCo Bar. Vinnie’s Bar & Lounge, Island Road.

Fri 11 feel The pinCh. DBar. KaraoKe with Julie. Castle Bar. Fri 11 session aMeriCana. Music. Wexford Arts Centre.

Fri 11 des Browne. Temple Bar, Treacy’s.

Fri 11 JaCK Kavanagh TrusT - gala ConCerT. St Aidan’s Cathedral.

Fri 11 Sat 12 roho nightclub Bunclody. Doors 10pm. 18+. www.facebook.com/rohobunclody.

BeaTle Mal. Drama. Wexford Arts Centre.

Sat 12 live Band. Temple Bar, Treacy’s.

Sat 12 TransMiTTer. Benedicts.

Sun 13 Sun 13 woodsToCK. Temple Bar, Treacy’s.

Sun 13 aBhrainn duBh. DBar. Carlsberg Music Trail.

Fri 18 disCo Bar. Vinnie’s Bar & Lounge, Island Road. sCoTTy T (geordie shore). roho nightclub Bunclody.

Fri 18 Doors 11pm. €10. Tel: 085-7050404.

Bernard o'shea. Comedy. Wexford Arts Centre.

Fri 18 Blues Band. DBar. Fri 18 Fri 18 derMoT power. Temple Bar, Treacy’s.

Fri 18 KaraoKe with Julie. Castle Bar. Sat 19 roho nightclub Bunclody. Doors 10pm. 18+. www.facebook.com/rohobunclody.

Joe 90. Temple Bar, Treacy’s.

Sat 19 wexford iMprov group. Bellefield GAA Complex.

Sat 19 Oct 19-20 larry Kirwan (Black 47). Music & Talk. Wexford Arts Centre.

Sun 20 sTarMan. Benedicts.

Sun 20 hoT ash felT. DBar. Carlsberg Music Trail.

TouCh of Class. Temple Bar, Treacy’s.

Sun 20 Oct 23-27 da. Drama. Wexford Arts Centre.

23-Nov 3 wexford fesTival opera. Wexford Opera House.

23-Nov 3 wexford spiegelTenT fesTival. Wexford Quay.

Thur 24 aThenaeuM opereTTa. Riverside Park Hotel.

Fri 25 disCo Bar. Vinnie’s Bar & Lounge, Island Road.

KaraoKe with Julie. Castle Bar. Fri 25 afTer hours. DBar. Fri 25 paT Bolger. Temple Bar, Treacy’s.

Fri 25 Fri 25 CaMross draMa group PRESENTS Three one-aCT plays: The Presentation Centre. 8.00pm. 053 92 33000. Adm €10.

Sat 26 roho nightclub Bunclody. Doors 10pm. 18+. www.facebook.com/rohobunclody.

Sat 26 The inMaTe. Temple Bar, Treacy’s.

Sun 27 reillys Men. DBar. Carlsberg Music Trail.

Sun 27 KiCK ass CooKoo. Temple Bar, Treacy’s.

Mon 28 eQuinox. Music. Wexford Arts Centre.

Oct 28-31 hiTs froM The MusiCals. WLOS. Ferrycarrig Hotel.

Oct 30-31 Kennedy's Children. Drama. Wexford Arts Centre.

It would be prudent to check all events locally with the organisers and/or venues. Check www.wexlive.com for updated listings.

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Over The rainbOw ParT 2

11

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See Joseph Doyle’s column on page 30 for details of upcoming charity and other events.

his maternal home with his wife and kids and stuff starts to go bump in the night again!

I know what you’re thinking, “Ah, here we go. Door creaks, walls scratch and we get jump scared out of our pants.”

Now, I will admit you wouldn’t be far wrong but unlike the first one, the scares seem genuine and really hit home on more than several occasions. The best part of the somewhat convoluted story is the explanation

of the “Bride in Black” from the first film. It is masterful and a g re a t , g re a t b a c k s t o r y.

Convoluted, but enjoyable story aside, a lot has to be said about the colours used throughout the film. Josh’s maternal home is swathed in red light before during and after all major set pieces and scares. And when the action moves outside the home, there are grey, black and blue pastels, a marvellous job which adds to the already brimming tension.

If you don’t know who director / writer James Wan is, you must be living under a rock.

For those of you familiar with his work, you will not be disappointed. I enjoyed this film a lot more than the first one and the whole thing seems less disjointed and patchy. The film drags a bit in the middle and is only let down by an unsurprising ending. Overall, a very enjoyable thriller, it would be an i n s u l t t o c a l l i t a h o r ro r.

Recommended.

3.5 / 5 – Jamie Murphy

12

Slaney Entertainment

1 October 2013

Wexford Improv Group live in Bellefield

WexFactor Targets Youth Talent

WexFactor 2013 is well underway with the WexFactor Youth committee planning the judging process, the venue, bands, performers to play while votes are cast, sound and stage production and more! The stage is set ... now they are calling for artists!

WexFactor is a competition for any musician from soloist to band aged under 25 to compete for the prize of sound recording studio time and the opportunity to play on the same stage / billing as a headline band at the Strawberry Festival 2014. Last year was brilliant ... the entertainment was worldclass and the audience had hands red raw from clapping. At any given moment, any one of the acts could have been the winner. Entry forms can be downloaded from www.strawberryfestival.ie or available from FDYS, Island Road. It is only €10 per person to enter and entries close on Friday 18th October at 5pm.

To ensure the final is packed with talent, there will be a panel of three judges plus a peoples choice with voting on the night, with a minimum of 3 acts from each heat going forward to the final. The heats are set for Saturday 2nd and 9th November and final night announced later. The Strawberry Festival and FDYS Music Box are supporting the Youth Committee who are creating a top event that old and young will want to be in and see.

Keep up to date by checking out the page www.facebook.com/wexfactor 2013

STRAWBERRY FAYRE AFTERNOON TEA DANCE A great way to spend an autumn afternoon … dancing, chatting, eating and relaxing in the beautiful ballroom of Riverside Park Hotel overlooking the Slaney River.

One of the new events of Strawberry Festival 2013 was “A Taste of Wexford Strawberries”. Various homecooks competed for an Award as judged by Masterchef Paolo Tullio and Award winning local chef Phelim Byrne. The Award winner was local Anne Sinnott who created a mouthwatering strawberry cheesecake.

This winning cheesecake will be available as part of the Afternoon Tea Dance being held on Sunday October 13 at Riverside Park Hotel 3pm – 5pm. Also, those who are watching their diet can savour the best gluten free delights created by local New Ross chef Mary of Tasty Parlour!

The band, Duffry Stompers, thrilled locals during the Strawberry Festival at the Hope Centre’s afternoon tea and also in Market Square. Their brassy sound and perfect dance beats make dancing easy! Tickets are available at Riverside Park Hotel and at the door. All ages are welcome and at only €5 entry, it is fantastic value even if you can’t dance! Get your friends together for a cuppa because if you buy 5 tickets, you get one FREE!

“A Taste of Wexford Strawberries” winner, Anne Sinnott, with Strawberry Festival Chairperson, Cyril Wheelock.

Fresh from the Vodafone Comedy Festival and a sell-out show at the Wexford Arts Centre the Wexford Improv Group is now ready to take on the World – starting with Enniscorthy!!! The group will be live in Bellefield GAA Complex October 19th at 8pm.

Wexford Improv Group’s World Tour of Enniscorthy is set in the style of "Whose Line Is It Anyway". This show can only be described as comedy on the spot!! Fuelled by the audience’s crazy suggestions. No scripts and nothing rehearsed, and no idea what will happen! It’s a show that is not to be missed by anyone. This is their last Irish date before they jet off to THE BIG IF Festival in Barcelona!!

Tickets are available from Bellefield GAA Complex. For more information on the show or ticket information call Eddie on (087) 286 8341 or Matt on (085) 822 8029. https://www.facebook.com/events/436517883121407/?ref=2 https://www.facebook.com/WexfordImprov

on october 12th at 8.30pm the atmospheric courthouse arts centre in Tinahely will host an evening of Gallic charm delivered by the very talented caroline moreau.

The French chanteuse has just released her second album amour Toujours etc.

French chanteuse – a passionate performer caroline moreau’s music has been described as “that perfectly pitched combination of French sultriness and quintessentially european insouciance.” Moreau grew up in the north of France without TV or radio, in a region rich in popular culture. Later in the dark and forgotten music archives of Montmartre in Paris, she spent a lot of time hunting down some of the lost gems that are rarely sung anymore. She feels the best way to resurrect these songs is to sing them directly to the public. And so she brings us her songs, singing with warmth, passion, humour and musical excellence.

Moreau has performed as a solo artist, in a double-act with acclaimed gypsy violin virtuoso Oleg Ponomarev, and with a range of internationally respected musicians in venues all across Ireland, the UK and France. On this occasion she will be performing alongside Irish classical accordionist Dermot Dunne and Argentinian jazz guitarist Lucas Gonzalez.

The Courthouse Arts Centre is a wonderful venue for all types of music: the structure of the building lends itself to excellent acoustics.

For a performer like Moreau the Courthouse has the added benefits of being an intimate and theatrical space.

TueSdaYS WiTh morrie Drama - 3 Oct, 4 Oct, 5 Oct Back By Popular Demand. Based on the No.1 international bestseller autobiographical story of Mitch Albom, an accomplished journalist driven solely by his career, and Morrie Schwartz, his former college professor.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––– CaThY daveY Music - 10 Oct Irish Singer/songwriter Cathy Davey Choice Music Prize nominee and Meteor Ireland Music Award winner.

Her album The Nameless, debuted in poll position on the Irish Album Charts, the Independent Release Charts and the iTunes Charts on its first week of release.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––– SeSSion ameriCana Music - 11 Oct This Boston-based folk-rock band sit tightly around a small round cafe table with a suitcase drum kit, an old electric bass, a field organ and a collection of acoustic instruments.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BeaTLe maL Drama - 12 Oct An entertaining one-hander about The Beatles’ best friend with witty, original songs.

Bernard o'Shea Comedy - 18 Oct Resident roving reporter and Georgia Salpa’s love interest on RTÉ’s hugely popular Republic of Telly, Bernard returns to the Wexford Arts Centre to his first love, stand up.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––– LarrY KirWan (Black 47) Music and Talk 19 Oct, 20 Oct See www.wexfordartscentre.ie.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 'da' Drama - 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 Oct Wexford Drama Group presents Hugh Leonard’s hilarious comedy exploring the relationship of a successful playwright with his adoptive father.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––– equinox Music - 28 Oct Based in the Netherlands the band plays a mix of vivid original pieces, personal arrangements of standards and classical jazz repertoire.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––– KennedY'S ChiLdren Drama - 30 Oct, 31 Oct Robert Patrick’s Tony Award-winning play. A strident, funny and moving piece marking the 50th anniversary of the assassination of President John F Kennedy. This production is not suitable for persons under 16.

T: (053) 9123764 www.wexfOrDarTScenTre.ie

Slaney Entertainment

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13

Support Local this Christmas Christmas by

The Riverside Park Hotel & Leisure Club

CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS Fri 13th & Sat 14th December Mince Pies Cupcakes Christmas Pudding Chocolate Log Cheesecake – Small Cheesecake – Large Black Forest Gateau Pavlova Pavlova Roulade Filled Meringue Biscuit Cake Christmas Cake

per dozen per dozen

half dozen

€15.00 €8.00 €15.00 €12.00 €10.00 €25.00 €15.00 €25.00 €25.00 €15.00 €10.00 €20.00

from Orders taken now for Christmas

Toffee and Thyme Rafter Street, Enniscorthy. Tel: 053 9237144.

Email: maguire.pauline@gmail.com

During these recessionary times the Christmas party provides a welcome relief for both management and staff and affords everyone the opportunity to relax without formalities and enjoy the Christmas season.

When organising your Christmas party please consider staying local. every euro spent locally helps maintain much-needed employment in our local hotels and restaurants. luckily there are lots of great options on our own doorstep – several of them are featured on this page.

So when booking your Christmas party this season please stay local (and give the local taxi businesses a welcome boost also!)

SpeCiAl Offer Advertise in this quarter page size for €120+VAT

in either of our two remaining pre-Christmas issues (5th November, 3rd December) or opt for half this size for just €70+VAT Call 087-2403310

Entertainment & Mulled Wine on arrival 4 Course Gala Meal Music by American Heart & DJ Only €42 Enniscorthy Co. Wexford Tel: 053 92 37800

www.RiversideParkHotel.com

14

Slaney Entertainment

Recently Buddy mondlock did a fantastic gig in enniscorthy’s Toss kavanagh’s pub – the place was packed.

Buddy played a full set of his old and new songs. His new album (The Memory Wall) is quite like any other CD, or is it? Well let’s see, if you think Simon & Garfunkel, or Seals and Crofts, or James Taylor, you might be in the ballpark.

However don’t kid around here – Buddy is something special and that’s the difference.

Buddy Mondlock has a loving heart for the melody and being a worthy storyteller within his songs is a warm approach to the craft.

Buddy has written songs with Art Garfunkel, Janis Ian and Garth Brooks, indeed A Canary’s Song turns up on his latest album The Memory Wall – a sad but happy song.

Buddy is Nashville based and is well endowed with charisma – the very essence that gives a songsmith words of wisdom that gives the listener something great from a tune.

Buddy says of his new album that a remarkable thing happened – this album was founded and made possible

1 October 2013

by nearly 200 friends, fans, family members and supporters including Joan Katz, Mike Brooks, Kathy Price, Bruce Ziegle, Larry Goeb, and Susan Swofford.

Buddy says the album was fun to do and so many friends and family turned up to give a lending hand and most of all loving support; and thanks to Guy Clark for believing in him and giving his very inspiring love and support and making him try even better. And not forgetting Mondlock’s own, family – they are so very cool.

I asked Buddy to tell me about how his songs come about. donal: Buddy, what is it that gives you influence to write a song. Is it if you’re in the city you see someone or something you like or want?

Buddy: Well, if I’m in the mood for it I’ll do it, write it down, or I will sit with family or on my own and write. donal: Buddy, who were you influenced by when when you were growing up?

Buddy: Well, everyone with a good melody. Lennon & McCartney come to mind although I’m not quite as old

Donal Meets

Buddy Mondlock Buddy Mondlock

as them I still remember them when I was a kid. donal: Buddy, is this album your special one?

The Rev. Tenors Wexford Male Voice Choir Lorna Mahon, Ted Quinn & Family, Stephen Murphy, Colm O’Tiarnaigh, Stephanie & Clodagh Kinsella, Niall & Grace Kehoe.

Buddy: I like it, I hope my fans do.

The Memory Wall is a real fresh album and as the title

suggests after you play it you want to hear more and you will definitely remember it, all of these little gems stand out, one by one.

Track 1, The Ugly One, in this he sits around the fire taking in all his surroundings. The valleys and peaks in his thoughts gel together and he seems well at home in his own skin. It’s a perfect opening track for the album.

There are 13 tracks. Track 2 What Do You Want to Leave Out is about the holes in you or the holes in your soul, whatever you do.

On No.3 Buddy is looking for hope but it’s Track 5 A Canary’s Song that’s written

by Buddy and his friend Mr Garth Brooks, yes folks it’s really him. Picture Buddy and Brooks riding their stallions on the prairie or some such place rambling and taking in their surroundings.

They are two cowboys enjoying nature, the mountains, and A Canary’s Song.

The track A Canary’s Song sees the two friends, Buddy and Brooks, at their best.

As well you might guess, Buddy has a host of friends including Art Garfunkel and

Enniscorthy Musical Society

Hits from the Musicals Sunday 6th October at 8pm in the Riverside Park Hotel. Tickets €10.

Door prize and raffle.

AND

Dinner by Candlelight

St Aidan’s Cathedral, Enniscorthy.

Friday 11th October, 8pm. Tickets: €10.

Athenaeum Operetta

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Miss Janis Ian, she will love me for that. Janis met Buddy years ago and Mondlock never forgets a friend. When I met Mondlock he talked at length about his friendships, his family, friends and fans. Buddy is a real loving guy and no doubt he and I will meet again, I do hope so.

I have met lots of artists, movie stars and writers etc but Mondlock is probably the most charming and loving one. Indeed I could not turn away after the interview. I stayed for the whole gig. I must say it was a treat to see such an artist in our own little town. Buddy is my new best friend, we exchanged numbers, emails and swapped smiles. Buddy you’re a rich man in heart – that’s the best part.

Now I can count Mondlock as another fine friend.

Get The Memory Wall and give it a listen, see what I mean.

Buddy is your friend to visit on www.buddymondlock.com.

Thank you Buddy from Donal.

– Donal cullen

Thursday, October 24, 2013, is the date for the fifth Athenaeum Operetta, a proud part of the Wexford Festival Opera fringe programme.

The evening comprises champagne reception at 7.30pm, four-course meal, the cream of musical talent and dancing ‘til late with The Duffry Stompers. Tickets €40 from Maura in Siopa Céird, Castle Hill 087 3550085; Helen 087 2637178; Tony 053 9235353; Riverside Park Hotel 053 9237800, athenaeumoperetta@gmail.com

We’ve heard great reports about an up-and-coming young, rock band – Tiberium, consisting of Jason Findley, Enniscorthy, Luke O'Connell, Carrowreagh, Jonathan Hayes, Ballymurn and Aaron O' Leary, Clohass.

They're playing in Whelans of Campile on October 20th from 6pm and in Micko's Bar Taghmon on November 2nd from 10.30pm.

Remember the name, check them out on Facebook, and watch out for them at a venue near you – soon.

Slaney Entertainment

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15

spiegeltent wexford

The Spiegeltent Festival Wexford will take place on Wexford’s Quay from Weds October 23 to Sun November 3, and is shaping up to be one of the biggest entertainment festivals ever in the South East.

Confirmed acts include Alabama 3, Bell X1, Cry Before Dawn, The Dublin Gospel Chor and The Celtic Tenors, Jack L, Pierce Turner, Tommy Fleming, John Spillane, Camille O’Sullivan and Scottish star Eddi Reader.

Local artists are to have their own featured show. The comedy side of the Spiegeltent Festival will include Jason Byrne and David McSavage, and film fans are expected to flock to Phantom of The Opera.

To add to the international flavour there will be two performances from the PanGottic Circus whose fresh approach combines physical theatre and circus for indoor, outdoor and street performance. Spiegeltent Festival Wexford will also include adult burlesque, a food fair, a business conference and, for the first time, a dedicated Carnivale space with vintage carnival-style attractions from the early part of the last century.

The Spiegel Fringe will offer free lunchtime and early morning entertainment in key locations, eateries and pubs around Wexford town, plus a electric mix of daytime and street theatre, including acrobats, fire breathers, jugglers and contortionists. There will be twice-daily children’s show each Saturday and Sunday during the festival, as well as a special Halloween show featuring Dr Sketchy.

Each night the Paradiso Spiegeltent itself will host two main events, one at 7pm and the other at 10pm. Shipped on demand to Wexford from Holland, the Paradiso Spiegeltent will accommodate 450 seated and 600 standing. The interior will be decked out with bevelled mirrors, stained-glass windows, velvet ceilings and glittering chandeliers. It will arrive in Wexford in more than 3,000 sections and will take two full days to assemble on Wexford Quay.

Wexford Light Opera Society news wexford light opera society (wlos) is delighted to have secured, direct from the west end, the performing rights to “sister act the musical” as its show for 2014.

This is a major coup for WLOS who are the first in Ireland to be offered the show. Sister Act is a feel good, hilarious, smash hit musical, full of choral, soul and dance music.

The production team for the show is the same successful team as this year i.e. Director – John Donnelly, Musical Director – Fintan Cleary, Choreographer – Nicole McDonald and Chorus Mistress – Eithne Corrigan.

The show will be staged in Wexford Opera House from Monday 28th April to Saturday 3rd May 2014. Auditions are due

to take place in November – further details in due course.

But before all of that the Society will host its annual sell-out run of hits from the Musicals in the Ferrycarrig Hotel nightly from Monday 28th October through to Thursday 31st October. This annual show is a must-see for all music lovers. Priority booking will commence at WLOS House, 38 High Street, Wexford on 14th October, and on the 16th for general bookings. These shows ALWAYS sell out so book your tickets early.

Finally, congratulations to WLOS on winning the Dick Meany Trophy at the first Carrick-on-Suir Musical Theatre Festival which was held last weekend.

Out and About in Enniscorthy and beyond

Strawberry Queen Leanne Hore with her sponsors from Scissor Sisterz, Tanya and Ciara.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny (centre) and Mr Derek Nally (extreme right) with representatives of the Council of International Investigators at the recent CII Conference in the Riverside Park Hotel.

We t wan ics! p r u o y

A very happy Anthony Molloy and his daughter receiving their BBQ from Dermot which they won in the recent Smyths Arro Facebook Like and Share Competition.

Kimberly O’Connor, winner of the Strawberry Festival Literary Award sponsored by Byrnes Bookshop, being presented with her prize by Cathy Murphy. Pic: Donal Cullen.

Please email your pics to: slaneynews@ gmail.com.

Thank you.

Kerry Morrissey and Mark Cooke enjoying the recent Arthur’s Day in Doyles the Duffry.

Pic: Joe Doyle.

Richie Cotter, Basia Dunio, Eamonn Doyle, Sean Doyle at the Enniscorthy Drama Group performance in August in The Presentation Centre. Pic: Maria Nolan.

Enjoying the recent “Onesey” Party in Caim Youth Club.

L-R: Maria Nolan, PRO Wexford Supporters Club, Eamonn Fortune, Stena Line, and Tom Boland, Wexford Supporters Club Secretary.

Wexford Supporters Club would like to express its thanks to Stena Line for their generous sponsorship in the annual Wexford Supporters Membership Draw.

Maura Flannery and Anne Gilpin at the Enniscorthy Drama Group performance in August in The Presentation Centre. Pic: Maria Nolan.

Slaney Food & Drink

www.slaneynews.com

17

Oonagh’s baking brilliance Training for food businesses The Great Irish Bake Off started on Thursday 19th September on TV3 – the beginning of the journey to see who will be crowned Ireland's best amateur baker.

One of the participants is Oonagh Barret who has vivid memories of baking going on in her family’s house when she was growing up, with her mum always baking everything from scratch. Her mum is Mary Bourke of Enniscorthy’s Walter Bourke Jewellers.

Oonagh has done remarkably well so far in the competition and is now one of the remaining 10 bakers. In the most recent episode Oonagh was presented with a tough technical challenge – a Bakewell Tart with raspberries, pistachio nuts and an apricot glaze. Some contestants failed to meet the high expectations of judges Paul Kelly and Biddy White Lennon, one tart being described as “a bit sad looking”. But Oonagh was not phased as she conjured up a tart which was considered

Oonagh Barret

“very very nice” by Biddy and “great” by an impressed Paul.

This earned her first place in the technical bake, afterwards a clearly delighted Oonagh described herself as “really pleased”.

There wasn’t time to dwell on her success as the first “showstopper challenge” was the following day giving the competitors the chance to show the judges what they could really do, having free reign to show off their skills which have been honed in their own kitchens all

over the country. They were challenged to create a savoury tart and a sweet tart using their own recipe. On this occasion Oonagh opted for a sweet tart containing shortcrust, peach, ameretto and almond; for her savoury tart she opted for a black pudding and pear tarte tatin with a balsamic and thyme caramel, the prospect of which excited Paul.

Although the judges were sceptical at the difficult task Oonagh chose for herself they couldn’t be anything but amazed at Oonagh’s tarts which Paul described as “delicious”, “beautiful”, “fantastic” and “refreshing”.

What really topped it all off for Oonagh was being announced the episode’s Star Baker, a magnificent achievement. Afterwards Oonagh described herself as “gobsmacked” and was refered to as “some lady” by Biddy.

We wish Oonagh the best of luck for the rest of the competition and let’s hope she can earn another All-Ireland success for Enniscorthy.

New training programme to provide start up assistance to small food businesses…

The Food Academy Start programme is targeted at start-up food businesses and current Wexford County Enterprise Board food business clients. It is centred on workshops, designed by Bord Bia and SuperValu, that will roll out from October of this year. The workshops will be run by Wexford County Enterprise Board, with local SuperValu retailers participating in a 'Dragons' Den' style pitch process.

Mr Tom Banville, CEO of Wexford County Enterprise Board commented: "Food Academy Start is a unique opportunity for ambitious food entrepreneurs looking to build sustainable businesses.

The programme will support participants from the challenging initial phases through

FOCUS

Clonhaston, Enniscorthy Contact Billy at (087) 2749493

MAD Sunday at Market Square, Enniscorthy

Stock up on chicken for your freezer: Chicken Fillets  Chicken Goujons  Chicken Kiev Chicken Maryland  Whole Chickens And many more items at wholesale prices

Ask about our great deals and special offers ✔ Focus on Quality… ✔ Focus on Service… ✔ Focus on Value…

ENNISCORTHY COUNTRY MARKET in a comfortable indoor setting in the IFA Centre, Mill Park Road

Fresh, local, seasonal produce direct from our gardens and ovens to your table…

Now open 9am to 1pm every Friday in IFA Centre Mill Park Road

For more information: Catherine on 087-2988459

to business development plans to assist with future planning. The combination of expertise from both the commercial and marketing fields will give invaluable

Wexford wins two gold medals Two Wexford establishments were rewarded on Monday 23rd September at the Annual Gold Medal awards run by leading hospitality industry magazine, Hotel & Catering Review.

Judged by an independent jury of experienced industry practitioners, the Gold Medal Awards are widely regarded as the most prestigious and coveted awards in the business.

The gala dinner and glittering award ceremony attended by over 300 leading hoteliers, restauranteurs and

FOOD

Mr Tom Banville, CEO of Wexford County Enterprise Board

insight for the companies involved."

The intensive workshops will provide companies with long-term business supports including consumer insight, technical advice, resource planning, commercial advice and marketing development. The output has a core commercial focus whereby all participants will have the opportunity to pitch their product or idea to their local SuperValu, with a view to securing an initial local listing and the potential to build from there. A suite of follow up supports will be exclusively designed by Bord Bia under the Food Academy banner to ensure the continued development of the companies.

For more information or to register your interest in Food Academy Start, contact Breege Cosgrave breege@wexfordceb.ie 053-9122965

bar & restaurant

Sunday Lunch in October

1 x Free MAD Dessert with every 2 x Main Courses purchased between 12.30pm–4.30pm * A yummy, summery dessert made from strawberries, cream and crushed meringue

caterers from across Ireland took place in the Double Tree Hilton (formerly The Burlington Hotel) in Dublin and was hosted by TV3’s Sybil Mulcahy.

Aldridge Lodge in Duncannon received the “Best Fine Dining Restaurant”. The Gold Medal Awards judges were very impressed as comments included: “With imaginative menus which reflect contemporary Irish food culture at its very best. Ultra-comfortable and elegant restaurant with a winning combination of warmth and professionalism.

Visit here and you are assured

of a memorable fine dining experience.”

The Oceo Spa @ Seafield Golf & Spa Hotel near Gorey scooped the “Best Spa” award coming out on top over nine other finalists and the judges commented: “This spacious, beautifully designed and impeccably maintained Hotel Spa is truly a place where you can relax in a serene atmosphere.

Run in a highly professional manner by a team of experienced therapists, there is an exceptionally wide range of spa and beauty treatments to choose from”.

18

Slaney Wexford Scene

1 October 2013

The Wexford Scene

Flotation Tank – see story on next page.

Michelle Dooley Mahon has the attention span of a flea. This has manifested throughout her life in an abundance of appointments, abodes and amours. Born in Wexford in Aul God’s time (when people still stepped off paths for priests) – she has variously been employed as a gynaecological receptionist / breakfast chef / au pair / pub landlady / tourist information officer / hostel warden / café owner / ship’s stewardess / film production assistant and hotel manager. She appears to have forgotten the remainder. She is an introverted socialite and conducts her assault on humanity through her facebook posts (http://facebook.com/michelle.d.mahon) and a Blogger account (Shellakeypookey@blogspot.com), and is the admin on the Facebook page she created to document the progression of Alzheimers in her beloved mother, Siobhan (“Alzheimer Association of Ireland”).

The Haemorrhaging Humourist Michelle performed the following piece at the recent Culture Night cabaret in Wexford Arts Centre…

Following my Uncle Ollie’s advice I had in fact “put the white on the window” and closed the door of the Tookay Café in the arts centre for the last time.

I was exhausted from running away from Denis and Jackie and the committee, who were trying to have a quiet word in my ear about little things like rent, bills, esb, Imro.

Stuff.

I should have been having a little word in theirs about telling the punters they could leg it to the Thomas Moore at the Interval and that Billy would ring the bell for them to come back. Chopped liver, I thought as I ran back downstairs to chop liver and whip cream after Juliet Turner had sung “Burn the Black Suit”. With hindsight, it would have been easier to dispense with the middle man and just throw the money over the quay. I may as well have been nailing jelly to a tree.

I was sitting in the foyer of an adjacent hotel when my phone rang.

Can you join a ship this evening as a chef? says a man.

Begob and I can, says I. This was when I still used to say yes to life. Nowadays, I am more likely to respond Hell, no - or not in these heels. I packed an overnight bag and a book, and took a train to the Harbour. In the breeze blocked hallway of the Irish Ferries offices, I follow the suited man down a warren of carpeted hallways as he hands me out sets of whites and checks. We thought you were a man says he, as he hands me the giant XXL jackets and pants. I am loving the neckerchiefs and aprons, the shoes - not so much.

They are white and steel capped and size 7.

I can get into a 3 if I have to.

“You can swap onboard” says he with a hopeful smile.

I believed him. He leads me aboard like a lamb to the slaughter. A man in a high- viz shouting into a walkie -talkie nods me over to the lift while the boys fly around on the cherry pickers, doing doughnuts in the new cars, emptying the decks. I arrive out into the passenger entrance on deck 7 and

a man takes me to my cabin and tells me to come back downstairs when I am dressed.

I am on nights.

I stare around the cabin.

Twin pink bunks, pink blankets, pink sheets. It is 2001 but this is not a space odyssey. I put on the clothes. I am in a lather from rolling up things and from pulling down things. The sleeves, the legs - the sleeves.

The shoes are massive. There is no way on Gods little green

First of all it is not a kitchen and second of all you need to know this.

Ships are bizarre places.

They are like floating hotels that serve weddings all day every day. They are crewed by wildly disparate people who are used to packing a bag and heading to Africa following a phone call. They are hard as nails and unshockable. If 1000 people drive on board they are with you all day, and demand Michelle performing at the recent Culture Night cabaret in Wexford Arts Centre.

Pic: Alan Mahon.

appled earth they will stay on. I undress again, re-dress in mufti and march around the ship looking for the duty free shop to buy socks. £15 sterling on my visa later I have purchased and donned 3 pairs of Guinness socks to be sold to second generation septic tanks wearing mustard leisure suits.

They were beside the Shillelaghs and cans of Irish air. I pressed a few hundred pens that played When Irish eyes are smiling just for fun. The blonde at the desk looks at me in disbelief.

She thinks I am a passenger.

“Just think what Toucan do” I proclaim and scooch the shoes on over them and limp up the stairs. At reception the girl hands me a giant hat that makes me look like the Pilsbury dough boy and I try to restrain my hair under it. She directs me along the deck where I hope to meet someone to show me where the kitchen is at.

to be fed and watered and entertained. They can’t just wander off and have a walk or a bag of chips and come back for a nap. So ships are staffed differently and there is always cooking and drinking and cleaning up going on. You are either turned in or turned to. Turned in being turned to the wall for a kip and turned to being shoulders to the wheel.

There is never a time when you can march down a crew alley without being told to whisht a thousand times. Big Mick is turned in, they will roar at you. Bernard is on splits.

Paddy is on watch, Ronnie is on the wheel. The only time the whole ships company is present and correct, from the old man to the galley boy’s cat and the ship’s Mary, is when there is a fire drill happening.

I walked in on it.

400 eyes saw me framed at the top of the stairs looking

like a miniature Krusty the Klown via Popeye, my oversize jacket rolled up, the legs of the navy checks folded up a thousand times, at half mast, the giant white clown shoes , the toucans on the socks. There was a split second of silence and then a wave of laughter. The man who is lecturing about the Marine Evacuation System stops talking about inflating systems and pressure gauges and looks up at me. I could not be more purple. There is so much blood rushing around my body I feel faint and can hear a roaring in my ears. The crew are motley and varied and from all corners of the world but the humour here is ALL Dublin. It is savage.

Oh, Mrs your hair is only bleedin’ massive, shouts up a chef the same size as me, but from the safety of a uniform that fits. There is nothing uniform about me. An hour later we are sailing away from the quay wall into the teeth of a gale that the captain calls a bit of weather. I am skidding around the galley trying to remember which hot box is mine, and how I keep a tsunami of 600 eggs from slipping out of a cooker built like a metal coffin when she rolls again. The shoes are a distinct hindrance. I am the only female in the Galley.

I survive the seasickness by eating tiny cubes of chilled melon.

In the morning I crawled into the small pink bunk and slept. In the night, I did it again.

I stayed on board for a week and had to take a ship to shore call from my Father who did not know where I was. I did not know where I was, as I had left my phone charging at home.

After a number of months, I changed watch,trips, block, the colour of my hair and titles. I worked in every area of the ship. I loaded stores and learned about Man United from the store man flying around the bowels of the ship on a trolley, signed articles to consent to be transported and given enough fruit not to get rickets, carted linen to the cabins, brought steaks and pepper sauce to tables of toothless welsh truck drivers, poured pints for travelers at 8am, cleaned skidmarks off the backs of jacks , made a million bunks, wiped up a lot of sick, and stood like a relic of aul decency in the Captains

mess, awaiting instruction, my hands folded behind my back, my waistcoat buttoned.

I watched a Maitre’d so drunk he waited a table in his underpants with his trousers folded across his arm like a tea towel.

It is because of this and my baptism of fire onboard that I could spot a new man at a thousand paces.

He had a head the length of a reticulated Python.

He had the face of the man from “One flew over the Cuckoos Nest”, as long as a Kardashian at a mirror, with 2 tufts of hair at the side. It was a cartoonish face. The only thing missing was a punchline. He stood 6ft 7” at the desk and signed in with the crew. I saw the tips of giant white shoes sticking out the top of his giant hold-all.

It was ironic that he was the Clown.

He had the saddest face I ever saw.

Every day he dressed in his cabin and made his features different with make- up and lipstick, drawing on a smile, presenting himself to the world and the children he was paid to please. He blew up balloons and fell over and took pies in the face and all the time when I passed him I could feel it, the palpable sense of otherness from him, the loneliness , a feeling of being cut adrift, loosened, all at sea. All at sea.

I watched him sit alone at the table staring out at the waves while his meal cooled in front of him. He was polite, with a refined accent, and a mild stoic air. I tried to include him or engage, but I was too busy drawing on my own face and presenting myself to the world.

Chuck Palahniuk once said, when somebody’s blood is lapping at your feet, you WILL step back.

We only noticed he was missing when the children went berserk and ran amok and someone had to be paged to hoover up the popcorn and wipe down the bulkheads. I was on Cabin accommodation that week, which meant I could wear a T shirt and not have to deal with the general non-

sense of the general public, hiding below stairs, if you will.

“That bleedin’ Clown is missing and the place is in a jocker below” says the small chef when I walk through the crew galley dragging a gash bag after soojeying a cabin. I knew where the bleedin’ clown was. He had a laminate hanging on the door saying please do not disturb or he would have been woken everytime we passed a lighthouse, which was a lot. I walked to his cabin and knocked. No answer. I knocked louder. I called out but the only sound was the roar of the engines and the sea.

I took out my pass key and opened the door.

The cabin was pink.

The entire cabin was pink.

Even though I was trying to process what I was looking at, I was simultaneously trying to write it in my head. My eyes scanned the small space, the intrusion, the violation as he laid there. His clothes strewn around, wallet and papers on the deck, vulnerable and laid bare. I entered his space and stepped through the pink stuff, and walked to where he lay on his back and cradled his giant head in my hands. Beside me at the bedside was a glass of water with pink stuff in it, like jelly, his teeth on the locker, pink gloopy jelly clinging to the shiny white enamel, and on one of his giant white shoes, there was more of the same. It was alien and bizarre. It looked like someone had upended a giant strawberry trifle all over the room. There was a scream from the door, a flurry of faces, then the sound of pounding feet as they ran to get the Master At Arms and the Purser. I wondered if he felt the blood roaring in his ears as he bled out. I wondered if he felt his heartbeat in his throat. I wondered a lot of things about him. He was going, or gone, but I was there.

The next time I looked up the Chief Purser is standing framed in the door with a face like thunder on him.

“Michelle - he says - what have I told you before about the gloves?”

– M.D.M.

Email Michelle at: mchllmahon@yahoo.ie

Slaney Wexford Scene

www.slaneynews.com The first reference to the word Floater was in the U.S.A. in 1890.

It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon and I walked through the Bullring-Market to say hello and tell them I would be back for my usual – coffee, flowers, herbs, cake. I am on my way to lie down in a dark space filled with warm water and turn off for a while.

“You have NO off switch, Michelle” shouted a man once as he hurled clothes into a case.

For some the idea of floating in a soundproof tank completely cut off from the world sounds like nirvana, but for others it sounds like a claustrophobic nightmare. This treatment was first developed more than half a century ago, yet there is still an air of mystery surrounding it. Understanding what the treatment involves will help you to determine if you would love it all up or prefer to eat your own foot.

Flotation therapy is a process of sensory deprivation. It was developed in 1954 by an American psychoanalyst and Neuro-physicist called Dr. John C. Lilly. He developed the isolation tanks after he discovered that when immersed in the tanks, rather than going into a sleep state, the mind becomes active.

I had heard about these tanks back in the 80’s on a radio programme and thought – those crazy Calafornian hippies ! What will they be at next?”

And now I am DOING it.

During the process your body is placed into a state of total relaxation. The water in the tank is specially made up with salts and minerals which allow the body to float. The theory is that while we are living our day to day lives we are prone to experiencing stress and conflict, and we therefore develop coping mechanisms to

Despite tweeting that a menopausal spinster required a lift to the Ploughing Match with the hashtag #notmakinganymoreland and #farmerwantsawife, and being assured that there were grown men sobbing in drills looking for a woman like me, I did not make it to the field in Laois where all the gallantry was going on until the last day.

Record numbers visited the three day event this year with over 230,000 people flocking in their droves to Co Laois. They came in baby buggies, on mobility scooters , in cars, buses and tractors. If they hadn’t come ready prepared for the muck with walking sticks, they bought walking poles for making their way about . There were wild eyed men reeling from stand to stand clutching Done Deal bags, Farmers Journal bags, Stihl baseball caps, calendars and anything else that was free. The event was well organised with plenty of NPA (National Ploughing Association) stewards on hand for car parking - one particular steward so vigorously waving his arms to direct traffic to the other side of a field, that bemused drivers smiled,and parked drivers commented on the imminent liklihood of his having a heart attack or stroke.

You could get an arse for a cat at this event. There were Fashion

FloTaTion handle these strains such as smoking or drinking alcohol. Ahem.

Because you are cut off from interference like the sights and sounds of your every day waking life, your body has a chance to break these habits and regenerate while you are still conscious.

Firstly, it is NOT like a coffin and you will not panic and claw the walls frantically while screaming yourself hoarse. It’s more like a room, and you have a separate shower and can lock the door while you are in your nudiness. I had thought my togs might be in flitters from the salt anyway, but I am told it is more freeing.

Quineta. Pic: MDM. Quineta, the therapist talks me through the process, the cleaning and maintenance of the unit, and explains about the salts in the tank and that you must shower before and after to rid oneself of the tell tale tide -mark of white powder that will be in your hairline and ears if

you are not vigilant.

She opens the glass door and I expect a deluge similar to the parting of the Red Sea to come thundering out and I stare at the tank and say – “where is the water?”

It is so flat calm as to be almost undetectable and is less than a foot deep.

You couldn’t drown in this if you tried. So, that’s an added bonus.

I strip and get in. It is warm.

There is a mat under your feet to stop you sliding around the gaff while the body attempts to float. I wait for something to happen. And then I realise that my arms and legs are raised and floating and the only part of me anchored to the water is my head on the neck pillow.

The week before, I had been standing under a jet in the thermal suite of a spa, shouting at my sister over the roaring of the white noise that I am doing her “worst nightmare” at the weekend. She has had a lifelong fear of enclosed spaces, which she attributes directly to me locking her in a wardrobe and terrorising her with a flat faced doll named Roberta, as a child.

And yet she applauds me as I float around the thermal suite, a skill I have only added to my repertoire in the last week. Despite preaching and ranting about surrender , acceptance, being and trust, I had never let myself fully relax in the water since almost drowning as a child, and would never put my face in.

Apart from once in a MineralBade in Stuttgart to the delight of hundreds of naked Germans who gave me a standing ovation.

During the August heat-wave, I had been submerged in the waters

Holy Plough

Cheese tractor! Pic: MDM.

Shows, ICA home-baking and needle craft. There were lads demonstrating milking mats, pumps, hoses, generators, gates, trailers, SUV’s, buggies and jeeps.

There were reams of tickets for Raffles for Ipads, weekends away and Tractors. There were fine lumps of bastes in the form of Aberdeen Angus, Limosuines, Charolais lying around the place chawing hay.

Someone had made a cow out of cheddar cheese with grated cheese strewn around its feet for grass, a man on standby guarding it in case someone took a lump out of it with the starvation.

On display were Antique tractors, thrashers, agricultural tools, fans, and a mock up old

style cottage on trailers – on invitation I found myself sitting inside having a cup of tea and a cake by the coal fire – how surreal? Bill, the cottage owner informs me he has made a full dinner of bacon/cabbage and spuds and fed a considerable number of hungry people that day.

A number of men gave me the eye. I gave it back. “Bring down the suckling heifer with the red water beside the far gate” says one to the other.

Spotted marching around in the crowd was Celebrity Gardener Diarmaid Gavin, and Gerry Adams.

Enda Kenny was like a one man combine harvester as he stormed through the crowd, high

off St. Helens Bay and after some quiet words of encouragement, for my very first time on the planet, in this lifetime, had relaxed and let GO and felt myself supported by a presence, an energy, the sea.

My mind races in the tank, and then slows and stills and I regulate my breathing and tear the pillow from under my neck. I submerge my head and unclench the muscles in my neck and lay back completely, my ears filled with the soft silky water.

It is bliss.

After roughly an hour has passed I sit up to have a bit of a play.

Splashing the water up and down with both hands like a 3 year old, feeling the magnetic pull, the surface tension making it look as if my fingers are plunging into a gel, surveying the size of the hill of my stomach in the half light. Quineta has turned off the blue bulbs so that I am in darkness but there is a sliver of light coming under the door. Enough for me to see the stomach and whisper “It’s been a blast baby, but goodbye”.

The treatment can take up to two hours, during which time you are completely cut off from physical stimulation. Because the body has no stimuli to react to stress levels drop. Production of adrenaline and cortisil in the blood is reduced and endorphins are released acting as a natural painkiller and creating a sense of deep relaxation. The therapy is beneficial to anyone suffering from chronic pain, hypertension, muscle tension, headaches, anxiety and psycho-physiological problems.

I did not go back to the market, I went home and slept.

– MDM WEXFORD FLOATATION THERAPY – Commercial Quay, Wexford (053) 91 21050.

fiving children and pressing housewives arms, a lone protester shouting in his face, ignored.

I spotted a signpost for “Batchelors in Trouble” (you couldn’t throw a kerrs pink without hitting 50 of them ) and assumed it was some kind of dating agency for farmers - on inspection, it turned out to be two old codgers dressed like the Wurzels selling CD’s.

There was not a lovely girls competition but one can only assume that there were a number of them there. Daithi O Se came down from the Wesht for the Craic. There was a lot of apple tart consumed and various and vicarious earnest conversation about grants and subsidies leaning over railings of display gates, hitching up trousers and whistling.

Sheep were corralled and inspected, horses were jumped and children were spinning hysterically on the hurdy gurdys.

Chats were had, alliances forged and broken, but as a lesson in Irishness, and in displaying a heritage, a culture and lifestyle we seem to have forgotten that we came from, it was a whore of a day out.

I’m off to squeeze a few bullocks in my house coat and wellingtons, just leave the few hundredweight of calf nuts beside the slatted shed door.

– M.D.M.

19

From Wexford town to the olympic village. Billy Walsh (left) and friends, Whites hotel, Friday 13th September. Pic: Patrick Hogan.

Lisa Christine Somers at the Red Chair, Crescent Quay Wexford. Pic: Patrick Hogan.

The legendary Freddie White at Wexford Arts Centre.

Pic: Patrick Hogan.

Sinead Barden, County Wexford Arts Officer, and Elizabeth Whyte, Wexford Arts Centre, at the official launch of the Wexford Festival Opera Fringe. Pic: Patrick Hogan.

The Wexford Rounding Trial, September 2013, with Ronnie O’Toole, Madeleine Quirke (Chief Executive Wexford Chamber of Commerce) and Senator Feargal Quinn. Pic: Patrick Hogan.

20

Slaney Motoring

1 October 2013

www.slaneynews.com

Caroline gets motoring The new Opel Insignia made its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show last month. The new car has undergone some subtle exterior styling changes most noticeably the redesigned front headlamps, grille and a revised rear lights. Inside there is a new infotainment system that integrates many smartphone functions into the car and can be operated via a touchpad, touchscreen or steering wheel controls, as well as by voice command.

There are new engines including two turbo petrol units, a 2.0l SIDI Turbo (250bhp) and 1.6l SIDI Turbo (170hp), and a new 2.0l CDTi turbo diesel (140bhp) with CO2 emissions of just 99g/km and an annual road tax bill of €180 per year.

“The successful Insignia has already won over more than 8,000 Opel drivers in Ireland since it launched in 2009. The new Insignia will thrill even more – with a highquality and sleek cockpit, intuitive operation of infotainment systems, exemplary powertrains and even more expressive design than before,” says Dave Sheeran, Managing Director, Opel Ireland.

E

neW oPel inSignia

Every month Bunclody native Caroline Kidd brings you the best motoring content, including features, car reviews, news and more. Caroline has been a car enthusiast since her teens. She now combines her love of cars and writing and contributes a weekly column to www.wheelsforwomen.ie. She has also published motoring content in The Sunday Independent and Irish Country Magazine.

SWaPPage

A new Opel Insignia Country Tourer will also be joining the Insignia family. The Country Tourer is an off-road estate car with four wheel drive for traction in low grip conditions and a raised ride height.

Cosmetically the Country Tourer is finished with extra plastic cladding on the wheel arches and lower body to give it a more off-road look.

The new Opel Insignia range will be on sale in Ireland from November 2013 and prices for the range will start at €24,995.

Opel Insignia Country Tourer

nniscorthy car wash

The SIMI (Society of the Irish Motor Industry) has launched its proposal for Budget 2014.

The SIMI are calling the new proposal ‘Swappage’ and if introduced next year they say it could boost the motor industry in Ireland and help new car sales reach 90,000.

Under the scheme, car buyers trading in a car of six years of age or older would get a €2,000 reduction in VRT on the purchase of a new car.

In turn, they claim that Swappage would create 2,200 new jobs and generate €129 million for the Exchequer.

Speaking on the new proposal, Alan Nolan, SIMI Director General says, “Similar to Scrappage but much more beneficial to the Exchequer, Swappage has the potential to deliver an even greater benefit but at no greater risk to tax revenues, the Industry or the State.

If Swappage is introduced next year, it could help new car sales reach 90,000. On top of that, there would be an increase in used car sales and servicing due to the cycle of business generated by the resale of trade-ins and local jobs and businesses in 400 towns across the country would be protected.”

More information on the SIMI proposal can be found at www.swappagescheme.ie

SIMI Director General Alan Nolan with SIMI Press Officer Suzanne Sheridan at the launch of 'Swappage'. Pic: SIMI.

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Slaney Motoring

www.slaneynews.com

21

audi brings back an eighties icon The Gerard Murphy This month Caroline Kidd takes a trip down memory lane and looks at the history of Audi’s quattro badge.

Memorial Vintage & Classic Car Road Run

2013 Audi Sport quattro concept

Last December I was walking by the train station car park in Gorey when I spotted a red Audi quattro. It was one of the originals from the early 1980s.

I went over and had a look.

The car was in a bad state and looked as if it had been abandoned. It was sad to see such a legend of a car looking so unloved and forlorn.

I remember thinking to myself if people walking by here realised that they had just passed an example of one of the greatest, most iconic cars of the last 30 years? I was doubtful.

Then last month while scanning through press releases coming from the different carmakers ahead of the Frankfurt Motor Show, I spotted one from Audi announcing an Audi Sport quattro concept to be unveiled at the show.

The accompanying photos showed a concept car sharing a similar side profile to the original car. The resemblance was

unmistakable. Here was a twenty first century interpretation of an Eighties classic.

The quattro badge has adorned many Audis and is synonymous with Audi’s four wheel drive system. In fact Audi

four wheels the traction and cornering of a four wheel drive car is superior to front wheel drive and rear wheel drive cars.

Combined with a powerful engine, Audi were onto a winner.

ro The orginal Audi quatt has sold more than five million cars with permanent four wheel drive since 1980 (‘quattro’ models) and today quattro four wheel drive technology is offered on all Audi models.

In the late 1970s, Audi began experimenting with building a four wheel drive performance car. Because the propulsion power is distributed between all

In March 1980, the 200bhp Audi quattro made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show and in a speech Audi Development Director, Dr. Ferdinand Piëch, said, “This is the dawning of allwheel drive in road going passenger cars”. In 1984, the compact, short wheelbase Sport quattro version with 306bhp was also added to the Audi line-up.

Motorsport has a knack of attaching legend status to cars and the Audi quattro performed extremely well in rallying in the 1980s. In the hands of world class rally drivers like Michele Mouton, Hannu Mikkola and Stig Blomqvist it won four world rally titles.

Production of the car ended in 1991 with a total of 11,452 units built but its pioneering quattro technology has been honed and developed and can be found today across the Audi range.

The Audi Sport quattro concept show car continues the grand quattro tradition. But it is a true twenty first century reincarnation of a classic – with 700bhp and a plug-in hybrid powertrain combining a petrol engine with an electric motor, it is a car of our time despite the nostalgic looks. No doubt the concept car shown at Frankfurt will form the basis of a production Audi model in the near future.

Driven to distraction…

Caroline Kidd introduces her report from the Irish Motoring Writers’ Association’s 2013 Automotive Forum on how advances in automotive technology could do more harm than good.

The car of the future will communicate with the road infrastructure and other road users to warn you about traffic jams or an accident up ahead, allow you to stream music and video material from the internet through your car’s audio-visual system, and make it easy to consult apps from the

dashboard that provide information about restaurants, hotels or shopping options on your route.

But as car manufacturers respond to the demands of the ‘connected’ world, the danger is that our eyes will be anywhere but on the road. In other words, will we be driven to distraction?

This was the topic for discussion at the 2013 Automotive Forum organised by the Irish Motoring Writers’ Association (IMWA) and sponsored by Continental Tyres.

Driven to Distraction. L-R: Pim van der Jagt, Head of Research and Development at Ford of Europe; Dr. Natasha Merat, Associate Professor at the University of Leeds-based Institute for Transport Studies; Gerry Murphy, Chairman IMWA; and Tom Dennigan, Continental Tyres Ireland.

The potential for some developments in technology which take over driving and emergency reaction from the driver to actually cause drivers to pay less attention to

the road and driving conditions was also discussed.

We will be carrying Caroline’s full report in our next issue of 5th November.

The Gerard Murphy Memorial Vintage & Classic Car Road Run will take place on Sunday 6th October in Ferns, Co. Wexford.

This promises to be a fun day out with entertainment for all the family. The Pre Run Event Night in The Courtyard in Ferns is on Saturday night 5th October from 9pm, music

by Cupla and The Madcaps.

Cover charge €5, door prizes.

This is the third year of what has become a very successful event with vintage enthusiasts travelling from all over the country to take part.

This event is run as a

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Registration for vintage and classic vehicles will commence from 10.30am. Car run will leave Ferns at 1.30pm.

The official start will be by Joe Duffy of RTE. – F.C.

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22 10 12

Slaney News

1 October 2013

Nowth wiltin’ about Wilton Pics: Maria Nolan

Wilton Castle owner, Sean Windsor, and Archaeologist Colm Moriarty. Pic: Maria Nolan.

Compliments of owner Sean Windsor and an edifying addition to the Bree Harvest Festival Programme, a guided tour of Wilton Castle took place on Saturday 14th September attracting 120 historical, cultural and photographic enthusiasts who were delighted with the opportunity to view up close and personal this wonderful fairytale castle of turrets, towers and terraces.

Looking graceful and stately in the September sunshine despite being yet another of our glorious ruins Wilton has a long and chequered history with association to some of Wexford’s most illustrious families among them the De Denes, Furlongs, Butlers and Alcocks.

Local Archaeologist Colm Moriarty was on hand to impart a comprehensive and interest-

ing account of its varied past ably assisted by owner Sean Windsor who was eager and willing to answer any questions that punters might have in relation to its restoration and his own families involvement with the Castle.

Sean told me that his grandfather had come to work at Wilton as a Dairy man in the early 1900s all the way from Wicklow making the journey by motor bike with his wife and first child in the attached sidecar. After the burning of Wi l t o n i n 1 9 2 3 t h e L a n d Commission divided the property and gave local tenant farmers the opportunity to buy portions of it - Sean`s grandfather bought the land attached to the castle. Having seen some photographs recently of the interior of Castleboro another tragic casualty of those turbu-

lent times I enquired if Sean had any photos of the interior of Wilton but like the large collection of books in the castle`s extensive library, none seem to have survived the flames of freedom.

In medieval times Wilton was owned by William De Dene and was known as Kayer or Caher and incorporated much of the parishes of Bree, Davidstown and Glynn as we know them today. William De Dene was an important member of the emerging AngloNorman aristocracy and held the position of Sheriff of Wexford between 1241 and 1245 progressing to the office of Chief Justicar or the King of England`s Chief Minister in Ireland – mightily prestigious beginnings for our Wilton ……..eh?

William was succeeded by

his fourth son Reginald who held the title of Baron of Kayer/Keir until his death in 1302.

In 1356 Kayer passed out of De Dene hands to Faulk Furlong through his mother Ismay Dene. Faulk after whom Foulksmills is named built a castle at Kayer sometime around 1400. The De Denes were back at Wilton again before the end of the 15th century and in the early 16th century the castle and lands at Kayer were sold to Sir Richard Butler who was the younger brother of the Earl of Ormonde one of the most powerful men in Ireland at the time.

Indeed, Richard was a prominent man in his own right with extensive holdings in both Wexford and Kilkenny. In 1550 h e w a s c re a t e d Vi s c o u n t Mountgarret by King Edward V1 and that same year he was also made Constable of Ferns Castle and the onus was on him to defend the northern part of the County from attacks by the O`Byrne and Kavanagh Clans.

He was also a trusted ally of the Catholic Queen Mary of England and in March 1554 he was sent to Spain to help arrange her marriage to Phillip 11.

Richard died in 1571 and was buried at St. Canice`s cathedral in Kilkenny where his impressive tomb can still be seen.

The Butlers continued to reside at Kayer until the arrival in Ireland of Oliver Cromwell in 1649 when they lost all their lands to the marauding conqueror – described as over 2,000 acres of land as well as a ‘fayre castle, diverse houses and offices, a good water mill and a coneyborough’ (rabbit warren).

The entire Kayer Estate was granted to a Captain Robert T h o r n h i l l – a n o ff i c e r i n Cromwell’s army who never really warmed to the estate or the area complaining in 1659 that wolves were causing havoc in the district and so in 1695 sold it on to a one William Alcock who set about immediately to repair and improve the property, building a new mansion and renaming the estate Wilton – (noone has any idea where the name came from).

The Alcocks remained at Wilton and the next major refurbishment work was carried out at the castle between 1836 and 1838 when a Harry Alcock commissioned Daniel Robertson to redesign the castle the same Daniel Robertson who designed Castleboro.

However, this impressive and intriguing saga all came to an end at 9 o’clock on a Monday night in March in 1923 when as the Irish Times reported:

‘Wilton Castle, the residence of Captain P.C. Alcock, about three miles from Enniscorthy was burned by armed men. Nothing remains of the beautiful building but smoke-begrimed, roofless walls, broken windows and a heap of smouldering debris’.

So it is with delight that Slaney News can now report that this is no longer the case and restoration is once again happening at Wilton. Sean Windsor was only too happy to walk us through the elegant ruin detailing work carried out and work planned. I did ask if they had ever considered tracing their family name as they may be related to some very wealthy Windsors across the Channel to which Sean replied with a smile ‘Actually our family name of Windsor goes back a lot further than theirs’.

Well said Sean and well done.

Wilton – this distinguished ruin of prominent history and illustrious past is in extremely safe hands and I would personally like to thank Sean for the opportunity to enjoy it and also for his trojan efforts to care for and preserve this precious gem stone of yesteryear on our Enniscorthy doorstep.

– Maria Nolan

Johnny to run for County Elections

Below: A proud moment… The Chairman of Enniscorthy Town Council, Cllr. Johnny Mythen, with his father, Jim, at the recent selection convention where Cllr. Mythen accepted the nomination to run in next year's County Elections.

Enniscorthy Sinn Fein has announced that Johnny Mythen, Chairman of Enniscorthy Town Council, has accepted the nomination to run in next year’s County Elections.

taxes on essential items like coal and home heating oil. We in Sinn Fein, believe things have to change, we must put the people first. I have been selected by my peers as a candidate to

Johnny is a life long republican who has worked tirelessly for the party over the years.

Friends and supporters congratulated him at the recent convention held in The Bailey.

Speaking at the convention, Johnny said, "I am proud to be nominated and to stand for Sinn Fein, people are fed up of the broken promises of this government. Every day we

hear that the country is broke, yet we still pay millions back to bondholders, young people have to leave their families and travel overseas to make a life, the government are increasing

run for the County local elections next April/May. I would be very honoured and privileged to represent the people of Enniscorthy and Co. Wexford, if they so wish".

Slaney Business & Finance

www.slaneynews.com

Grid Link can help growth IBEC is the national voice of business and employers and is the umbrella body for Ireland’s leading sector groups and associations. It provides a wide range of direct services to its 7,500 members, which range from the very small to the largest enterprises, employing over 70% of the private sector workforce in Ireland.

IBEC has welcomed last month’s publication of EirGrid’s report on the Grid Link Project (www.eirgridprojects.com/projects/gridlin).

The report outlines a number of route corridor options for a new 400kV overhead power line linking Leinster and Munster. The €500 million Grid Link Project will connect substations in Knockraha, in Cork, to Dunstown, in Kildare, via Great Island, in Wexford.

Over the next two months the public are invited to give feedback. The consultation will assist in identifying a ‘least constrained’ corridor to avoid social, environmental, technical, and other constraints.

IBEC South East Regional

President, Anne Marie Caulfield, said: “The Grid Link Project has the potential to drive economic growth and facilitate job creation. It will further enhance security of supp l y, w h i c h i s a k e y consideration for likely investors in the region.”

“I would urge members of the local business community to engage in the consultation process, as identification of the best corridor route is linked with inputs and feedback from stakeholders and the public.”

Britain’s Offshore Windfarm

by Sean Doyle B R I TA I N ’ S O F F S H O R E W I N D FA R M F O R T H E IRISH MIDLANDS? Earlier this year the Irish and British governments signed a m e m o r a n d u m o f u n d e rstanding for electricity to be exported from Ireland along undersea cables, and a formal agreement is due to be finalised in 2014. The details of the project are virtually unheard of in Britain and have received litt l e p u b l i c i t y i n I re l a n d .

Apparently the plans are well advanced to erect a jungle of giant wind turbines over three times higher than the Monument of Light (The Spire) in O’Connell Street, Dublin, in the level countryside of the Irish Midlands.

Over the next few years, some 2,000 wind turbines (40 wind farms) – more than have been constructed in the whole of England – are due to be condensed into the counties of Meath, Westmeath, Offaly, Laois, and Kildare and parts of Tipperary and Kilkenny.

Britain is falling behind in its efforts to supply 30 per cent of electricity from renewable sources by 2020, due to ever-increasing opposition to onshore wind farms. By contrast it is expected that hostility to the venture in Ireland will not be as strong, although groups are now organising resistance to the proposed project when they discovered the overwhelming scale of the

proposals. There are now about thirty different groups involved and the whole Midlands is about to be alerted that the area is to become a vast ‘British off shore wind farm’ A spokesperson for one of the groups said: “We are normal people who have never objected to anything in our lives. But we have been compelled to resist something that is being imposed on us as Britain tries to export its environmental problems to us”.

It is expected that opposition will grow to try to defeat proposals to build a forest of wind farms in the Irish Midlands to produce electricity for Britain.

– Seán Doyle

Water Meters – a cautionary tale!

Commercial water charges are levied on all businesses and must be paid to the local authority. There are two types of commercial water charges – flat rate or metered.

Metered accounts are subject to a minimum charge per year as well as a rental charge for the meter itself. The rental charge is usually paid on a quarterly basis. The minimum charge

can vary in different local authority areas. The meter is installed by the local authority and is read by water inspectors on a quarterly basis. A forthcoming EU directive will make it necessary for all commercial premises to have a meter.

The Slaney News met recently with a local business person who had a word of caution for all of us who will be get-

ting domestic water meters installed in the near future…

“Our meter was fitted nearly 3 years before we even knew it was up and running, plus we had a leak along with our general usage. We ended up with a bill for nearly €10,000 which took years to fight with Wexford County Council.” This person advises: when installed read your metre on a weekly basis

to monitor if a leak is present as if the leak is on your side of the meter it will cost a fortune.

“Our metre is covered with water so we have a little scoop to take out the excess water to aid reading. Also for every unit (1,000 litres) of water used we get charged a waste charge.

The charges are 1.21 per unit usage, 1.45 per waste unit, €150 rental of meter per year.”

Offices for Rent ➤ Enniscorthy Enterprise Centre offers suitable and affordable office space with competitively priced reliable high speed broadband. ➤ Whether you are a one person or more operation, Enniscorthy Enterprise Centre has a suitable space for you to grow your business. ➤ The centre offers more than office space. Its support structures are specifically aimed at new businesses. One of the reasons why new businesses choose Enniscorthy Enterprise Centre is for networking opportunities.

Meeting of like-minded entrepreneurs on an informal basis, sharing problems and discussing opportunities. ➤ The centre also advises potential start-ups e.g.

Enniscorthy Enterprise and Technology Centre advice on funding and financing for their business.

Certificate of Professional Competence in Road Transport Management A Certificate of Professional Competence is a Certificate that is issued by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in Ireland, on behalf of the Department of Transport, to a candidate who has successfully passed the examination at the end of this course.

The Certificate is proof that the candidate is professionally competent to act as a transport manager. In order to apply for an operator’s license the candidate must meet the requirements of good repute, appropriate financial standing and professional competence.

The course covers both national and international requirements for professional competence and successful candidates are issued with a Certificate which also meets both requirements.

Start Date: Thursday 3rd October

For more information contact: Enniscorthy Enterprise & Technology Centre Milehouse Road, Enniscorthy Web: www.eetc.ie E-mail: info@eetc.ie Phone: 053-9237499

Every Monday and Thursday evening 6.30pm to 9.30pm until January 2014.

Cost: €1,200 / Part funding maybe available if working in the private sector Contact: Enniscorthy Enterprise & Technology Centre Milehouse Road, Enniscorthy, Phone: 053-9237499 Web: www.eetc.ie E-mail: info@eetc.ie

To advertise in Slaneynews please call the Hotline 087-2403310

23

24

Slaney Ads

1 October 2013

www.slaneynews.com

Advertise here for as little as €30+vAt HILLTOP CROSBIE’S DRY CLEANERS FUNERAL HOME Repairs: Duffry Hill, Enniscorthy Tel: 053-9233893

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Gabrielle would be delighted to welcome you to her new little haven where calm, tranquility & a lovely sense of peace abound.

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All upSTylES: €30, by appointment only. great hair, tan and makeup packages available if required.

Whatever your requirements DTS can provide everything you might need:

Saorview – Authorised SKY Agents – Freesat – Saorsat www.digitaltelevisionservices.ie Askinvillar Upper, Kiltealy, Enniscorthy.

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Great facilities and services onsite • Low maintenance • Energy efficient (B3) Rent covers: Grass cutting, bin collection, saorview, caretaker, etc.

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Angel card readings by appointment, figurines, gift cards, incense & scented oils/burners, healing stones, dream catchers, chimes, candles, books, angel cards, jewellery, one-off gifts and curiosa.

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ber certificates Harte Building, Selling, Renting a residential property or have grant approval and require BER Cert or are thinking of upgrading your dwelling.

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Advertise here for As little As €30+vAt Next issue out tuesday 5th Nov. 2013. Contact us on 087-2403310 to ensure your ad is included.

Slaney News

www.slaneynews.com

25

St. Pio draws the crowds – again!

pET approVEd

VET DIARY FOR OCTOBER with the Moyne Veterinary Clinic In this issue of the Slaney News Jennifer O’Rorke looks at the topic of Aloe Vera and animals.

Although the complimentary medicinal properties of Aloe Vera have been known for some 4,000 years, it wasn't until the 1800s that it started to be commonly used for animals.

Whilst it is always advisable to see a vet before using any form of complimentary preparations, research has shown that Aloe Vera can help with many conditions affecting apparently unrelated bodily systems such as the skin, the digestive system and the respiratory system in animals (and humans).

For most skin problems the cause needs to be addressed before any treatment is given. Once this is done the animal can be treated orally, and or, topically with Aloe Vera gel drink and gelly. If the rash is persistent the Aloe Vera Propolis cream can be helpful too. Aloe Vera Gelly is also widely known to help with wounds and burns.

Orally it can be very useful with digestive problems, especially if inflammation is involved. Conditions such as stomatitis, gingivitis and even vomitting and diarrhoea can often respond, although if symptoms persist consult your vet.

Immunological problems have also been known to improve with oral administration of Aloe Vera – conditions such as arthritis, asthma, hay fever and other allergies.

The 5th Annual St. Pio healing Mass took place on Thursday 19th September 2013 in St. Aidan's Church, Ferns.

Large crowds from all over the County and beyond poured into the church to be present at this special Mass and to receive an individual blessing with St. Pio's 1st Class relics. It was a tall order to even get standing room inside the church and those that had seats were there as early as 6pm for the 7.30pm start.

The Mass was concelebrated

by Fr. Terence Harrington O. F. M Cap, the Very Rev. Fr. Paddy Cushen P.P and Fr. John Byrne P.P. St. Senans, as well as newly ordained Capuchins who travelled down with Fr. Terence for the occasion. It was a most

uplifting evening both musically and by the nurturing words of the sermon that was given by Fr. Terence. He explained each part of the Mass beautifully and said that this was central in St. Pio's life. Mass, Holy Communion and Confession were the three things that he lived for, and it was these that sustained him throughout his immense suffering. Many people feel close to St Pio and pray to him for help because he knew what it was like to suffer both physically and mentally throughout his lifetime.

Fr. Terence said he was extremely impressed by the crowds that turned up and said that the Faith of the people in

Wexford was indeed very strong. Author Colm Keane and his wife Una O Hagan were in attendance and Colm signed copies of his new book ' The Scent of Roses' – Irish Miracles and cures of St. Pio. His book has climbed to No. 1 bestseller and the proceeds from the sale of the book go to the Capuchin Daycentre for the homeless.

Copies of the book are available at the parish office in St. Aidan’s Cathedral and also in the parish office shop in Ferns.

A big word of thanks to each and every person who helped out on the night. Your help was greatly appreciated and it made this a very special evening for all.

– Patricia McNally

With ear conditions an examination by a vet, to rule out causes such as grass seeds and tumours, is always advisable. However, once these have been ruled out Aloe Vera gelly combined with bee propolis cream can prove very soothing where infection and inflammation develop in the vertical and horizontal ear canals.

So, in summary, Aloe Vera has a wide range of uses when used in conjunction with traditional medicine so it is always wise to seek veterinary advice to ensure the correct diagnosis is made and the most beneficial treatment selected.

– Jennifer O’Rorke

Our Services include: ✓ Full blood analysis - haematology - biochemistry ✓ Gas anaesthetic ✓ Digital X-rays ✓ Ultrasound ✓ Dermatological testing ✓ Kinesiology ✓ Bioenergy ✓ Prescription diets ✓ Herbal remedies ✓ Homeopathy ✓ Allergy testing

L-R: Fr. Woijek, Sean Davitt, Fr. Benigmus, Patricia McNally, Fr. Paddy Cushen PP, Fr. Terence Harrington and Joe Harney.

MOyNE VETERINARy CLINIC Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy.

T: (053)9233187, 9236674. F: (053)9236674.

E: moynevetclinicenniscorthy@gmail.com

OPENING HOURS (6 DAyS A WEEK): 9.00am–1.00pm and 2.00pm–6.00pm Small animal clinic (please tel. for appointment): Daily 9.30–10.30am, 2.30–3.30pm, 5.00–6.00pm.

24-hour, on-call, Emergency Service: (053)9233187.

If you have a topic you’d like our vet to address please text us at SLANEY NEWS 087-2403310 or email: slaneynews@gmail.com

Enniscorthy Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals The ESPCA would like to congratulate the winner of their recent Trolley Draw held at Pettitts SuperValu, Enniscorthy, Ms. Lexi Carthy and thank everybody for their support.

The society has taken in many unwanted and neglected cats and dogs over the summer months and find themselves in a difficult place financially. They are holding a

Table Quiz on Friday 1st of November in Toss Kavanagh’s pub, Enniscorthy, in order to raise much needed funds. A table of 4 will be just €20 with lots of great prizes on offer.

ESPCA has lots of animals in need of forever homes. If you think you can offer a home to one, please call Shelly on 087-6105480 or Sinead on 0877723010.

To advertise in Slaneynews please call the Hotline 087-2403310

This Bichon is currently looking for a home. ESPCA has had several bichons and poms lately with new dogs coming on a weekly basis and many going to specialist rescues according to breed. Two special needs dogs secured places in the UK last week.

26

Slaney History

1 October 2013

www.slaneynews.com

Ibar Carty chronicles the 20th century in Enniscorthy & beyond Ibar Carty has opened up his vast photo archives to the Slaney News.

In this 27th of a series, Ibar shares some photos taken 25 years ago.

If you can supply the names of any of the people in these photos, Ibar and the Slaney News would be delighted to hear from you.

For our convenience can you email the names to: slaneynews@gmail.com.

Thank you.

Left: Rapparees GAA Club Dinner Dance held in Murphy Floods Hotel 1988.

Below: Red Cross Awards in Murphy Floods Hotel 1988.

All pics copyright Ibar Carty.

Ibar Carty can provide high quality prints of all photos in this series. Simply ring Ibar on 087-6729969 or email: ibar_carty@yahoo.ie or call into his premises on Castle Street (beside the Athenaeum).

If you mention the Slaney News he’ll give you 20% OFF the price!

Pic: ©Joseph Doyle

View from the Hill The budgeT Yes folks, it’s on the way again, the dreaded budget. We don’t know yet what it will contain but one thing we can be sure of is that it will hold further measures of austerity. Our well protected, by huge salaries and massive expenses, politicians will glibly tell us that the country’s finances must be put right and that we the common people must pay.

They don’t give a fiddlers about the finances of the rest of us as long as the country’s situation is remedied. This is because whatever cutbacks, extra charges and reductions in benefits are introduced they know that it will have no effect whatever on themselves.

Whether they are in government or opposition they are well padded against austerity and will never in their lives want for anything. The only thing on their minds is “ Will I hold my seat the next time or if I’m not standing will my son or daughter or some other family member be able to get on this gravy train.” And folks they will, unless people like you and me take a deliberate and conscious decision to severely punish those presently and formerly in government who are responsible for the destruction of our families and

our businesses by the vicious pursuit of austerity. The people must rise and use the only power which we possess and be sensible when the time comes to vote. There is little point in spending five years complaining about what is happening and then going into the polling station and voting for someone just because they are ( on the face of it at least ) nice people , or your mammy and daddy always voted that way. These politicians have shown little in return for your loyalty over the years and only you and I have the power to return the favour come election time.

Our next opportunity to wield the axe will be the Local and European elections in May next year.

Hopefully as we listen to and read about the budget later this month we will be mentally deciding which party candidates not to support in these elections also bearing in mind that our next property tax bill will arrive just before Christmas, due for payment in January, and that in January 2015 we will be hit with water rates on top of all this.

WATer AdverTisemenTs By now everyone will have heard the radio and seen the television advertisements pointing out the

A local contributor looks at life today in Enniscorthy and beyond through our taxes. We now will have to pay again. So every time you hear or see these advertisements bear in mind what they really mean. More Taxes.

value of our water. ( as if we didn’t know. ) These advertisements with the lovely soft voice urging us into a sense of awareness are not being run without a reason.

They will run for another 14 months or so with the intention of persuading us that we are in receipt of a water supply for which we should be paying. Come January 2015 we will receive water bills through the post which quite honestly are going to sicken us the charges will be so high. Not only will we be paying for the water we use but we will have to pay for these advertisements, the highly paid Chief Executive Officer and all his back up staff with their guaranteed jobs, high salaries and pensions, luxury offices and all the perks to which these people have become accustomed. If we don’t pay we will be cut off. It doesn’t matter that we are already paying for this water

And TAlking of TAxes I read recently in the Sunday Business Post that the Revenue Commissioners are about to commence an investigation into those who are in receipt of blind pensions and widows pensions to ensure that the recipients are tax compliant. This to me is a clear signal that the forces of the establishment in this country intend to pursue the most vulnerable in society in their ruthless efforts to improve the tax take.

When I read the article I was filled with disgust towards those directing this policy, particularly when I looked at what the bigwigs in this country get away with.

Our top county officials such as County Managers and Directors of Services in every county are being paid salaries of up to €3,000 per week in the cases of Managers and €2,000 per week to Directors of Services and on top of that are allowed claim 73c for every single mile that they drive in their cars during working hours. This is

a scandal in these times as we all know that the cost per mile in any car is no more than 20c at most and much less in modern reasonably sized cars. Therefore allowing for so called depreciation etc. the most these people should be getting is 30c per mile. The rest of us get nothing other than our wages (if we’re lucky) and no travel allowance and if you are on a widows pension or a blind pension you or your carer can hardly afford to keep a car on the road. But it is you and not the public officials who is going to be audited to make sure that you are not in receipt of a euro or two over your meagre entitlement.

It is rumoured that over many years some of the public officials who run this country are able to get enough out of their expenses to live without touching their generous salaries. This may be true or false but I believe that the Revenue would be better employed investigating this rather than terrorizing widows and blind people.

Well done Despite all of the above which is generally depressing there are still a lot of positives. For instance Enniscorthy again did particularly

well in the Tidy Towns competition this year with an improvement in the marks awarded. The voluntary efforts of the all those involved has to be commended.

Also tribute has to be paid to the Town Council for their presentation of the town for the recent international investigators conference. The Council’s work aided and abetted by the Tidy Towns people ensured that Enniscorthy looked its best for the occasion.

In business terms County Wexford seems to have done reasonably well over the long hot summer. The weather helped create a great atmosphere which encouraged locals and visitors alike to get out and about and spend a few euro in establishments from catering to retail which in turn has helped employment and the economy generally. Let’s hope the improvement continues to gather speed. sTrAnge fAcTs In the last 4,000 years no new animals have been domesticated. And did you know that foxes sometimes nip the heels of cattle so the stomping of the beasts drive mice and other rodents out of the ground for the fox to eat.

Slaney Around the Region

www.slaneynews.com

NEW ROSS NOTES…

BUNCLODY NOTES WHIST Every Monday night in St. Aidan’s Hall.

and an experienced beekeeper will give a talk on the practicalities of keeping bees and producing honey.

All welcome. Booking essential. Tel: 053 9375466

SLImmInG WoRLD Join a warm and friendly group.

Thursdays 5.30pm and 7.30pm in Millrace Hotel. Contact Maria 086-4141212 who’s looking forward to seeing you there. See ad page 9.

BunCLoDy CREDIT unIon Bunclody Credit Union’s new opening hours: Tu e s d a y, We d n e s d a y & Thursday: 9:15 – 16:15.

Friday: 8:15 – 18:15.

Saturday: 9:15 – 14:15.

BRIDGE CLuB Bridge has resumed in Redmond’s every Wednesday evening at 7.30pm. New members welcome. Contact Liz at 053 9377118 or 087 6450867.

ALCoHoLICS AnonymouS Meetings are held on Tuesdays and Saturdays at 8.30pm in Brennan’s, Market Square.

BunCLoDy LIBRARy: Talk on mount Leinster & Blackstairs region Thursday 10 October at 7pm.

Barry Dalby, cartographer, map publisher, and owner of East West mapping will give a talk on Mount Leinster and the Blackstairs mountain region.

Barry will talk about the various aspects of these hills, some of the people that live(d) there, local placenames etc. with a focus on the landscape, geography, wildlife, local interest etc. All welcome. Booking essential. Tel: 053 9375466 manage your digital photographs Saturday 19 October 11.0012.30am.

Learn how to upload, save, print and organise your digital camera photos. All welcome.

Booking essential. Tel: 053 9375466 Talk on Beekeeping Thursday 24 October at 7pm.

Ger Williams, registered lecturer with the Federation of Irish Beekeepers Associations

Wexford Local Authorities Photographic Society Exhibition 1-30 October.

Wexford Local Authorities Photographic Society was founded in January 2012, by a group of motivated photographers working within the local authorities. Part conventional camera club, part photographic co-operative, the Society provides a frontline photographic service to Wexford Local Authorities.

Regular Events: Internet Skills Classes for adults Tuesdays 11.30-12.30pm & Thursdays 2.30-3.30pm.

Booking essential.

Adult Reading Circle, Friday 11 October at 11am-12 noon.

‘Drop of Ink’ Creative Writing Group, Thursday 17 October 7.008.45pm.

Junior Book Club, Thursday 24 October at 4.005.00pm.

Toddler Story Time Fridays at 12-12.30pm. n

FERNS NOTES …

The Gerard Murphy Memorial Vintage & Classic Car Road Run will take place in Ferns on Sunday, October 6th, with

proceeds to Console. This is a free family day out and all are welcome with plenty of live entertainment for all the fam-

27

ily, and a display of vintage cars starting at 1.00pm.

See page 21 for more information.

Edel Sherwood, Cris White, Sean Ferguson, Murt Joyce and Fr. Hugh O Byrne pictured at the coffee morning in aid of HCPT – The Pilgrimage Trust – held at Joyce's Wexford, on Saturday 14 September 2013.

KEnnEDyS ComE HomE AGAIn To nEW RoSS As Enniscorthy rocked to the rh y t h m a n d b l u e s o f t h e Blackstairs, The Hook was awash with sea shanties and fishy tales of Lighthouse Keepers from around the world and Bree basked in the sunshine and opulence of a Harvest Festival, New Ross was once again playing host to another influx of Kennedys as Ted Kennedy, son of the late Ted Kennedy, and Rory Kennedy, daughter of Bobby Kennedy, came to call on their Wexford relatives and be part of the Programme of this year’s Kennedy Summer School.

In its second year the Kennedy Summer School created an exciting Programme of Events highlighting the strength of political, historical and cultural links between Ireland and America through a series of presentations and discussions over a three day period beginning on Thursday 12th Sept and culminating on Saturday 14th with a `behind the scenes documentary` by RTE telling the story of the New Ross JFK50 Celebrations in June of this year and featuring a special video message from the Kennedys called `Thanks for having us`.

With over 20 Speakers in 13 events located at St. Michaels Theatre, the Brandon House Hotel and the newly opened Kennedy Homestead Visitor Centre this was an ambitious and impressive schedule with guests the calibre of Mary O`Rourke, Miceal Martin, George Hook, Richard Bruton, Michael Taft, Peter Cassells, Margaret Ward, Leo Enright, Nora Owen, David Harney to name but a few and of course the aforementioned Ted Kennedy Jnr and Rory Kennedy. The cost per event was €15 with a variety of packages available to include multiple events and the Kennedy Summer School Dinner.

The highlights of course were the Irish Premiere of the five times nominated `Ethel` - the personal untold story of Ethel Kennedy and The Edward M Kennedy Lecture given by Ted Kennedy Jnr. `Ethel` an intimate, funny and deeply moving account of Ethel Kennedy’s life with Bobby Kennedy and the trials and tribulations of raising their 11 children on her own after his death is directed by her Emmy Awardwinning daughter Rory and offers an insight into the political dynasty that was the Boston Kennedys.

In his lecture about his father Ted Kennedy refers many times to that dynasty and to the strength of the family bonds that made it what it was. Dinner in the Kennedy household he

Ted Kennedy Jnr. Pic: Maria Nolan.

told us used to last several hours – about half an hour to eat the meal and the rest of the time was spent with the family debating and discussing political issues. They were a family who deeply loved each other in fact many of their friends and acquaintances would regularly complain that even when they were socialising they tended to stay together preferring each other`s company more than anyone elses.

Ted said that his father often referred to his own growing up as being `in a constant state of catch up`. As the youngest of 9 children in a family who competed with each other for everything and in every possible way Ted Kennedy felt that his entire life was spent trying to catch up with his siblings.

He told a very humorous story about his grandmother Rose taken from his father`s book True Compass. Rose had a practice of giving her children a signed copy of a book written by a Head of State each Christmas. During the Cuban missile crisis Rose Kennedy sent a letter to Russian Premier Nikita Khrushchev asking him to sign his book for her son John F Kennedy for Christmas. A stunned Khrushchev called in the KGB to examine the letter and decipher what must surely be a coded message, the CIA then got word of it and only when the matter was brought to the Presidents attention and he explained that his mother was the type of woman who went

ahead with her plans regardless was the incident dropped.

Ted also spoke about his grandfather Joseph Kennedy and his all consuming determination to get one of his family – an Irish Catholic - into the White House.

If there was one word Mr. Kennedy said that would epitomise the Kennedy dynasty and his father, it would be perseverance. This was the philosophy they all grew up with, it was the Kennedy ethos to never give up - to strive for what you want and to work harder and harder until you achieved it.

He recalled a day that his own son Teddy hadn’t done well in his chosen sport of sailing and his grandfather Ted sat him down and said ` Us Kennedys might not be the best Teddy but we can work harder than anyone else`. `That is what made my father such a good arbitrator and negotiator he stuck with a problem until it was resolved`.

To conclude he told us about the greatest moment in his father`s life which wasn’t as one might think in the political arena but rather on the field of play when he lined out for his college Havard and scored a touchdown. Havard lost the game to Yale and the dressing room afterwards was silent and subdued when in burst Joseph Kennedy flanked by Kennedy brothers Jack and Bobby to congratulate their sibling almost oblivious to the fact that the game had been lost. Nothing he said was more important to the Kennedys than each other and the honour and pride of the family.

A most entertaining address by an excellent orator it was scintillating, warm, humorous and totally enjoyable and in true Kennedy mode Ted held the audience in the palm of his hand throughout – the Kennedy charisma still lives!

Compliments to the Kennedy Summer School under Director Noel Whelan on a most excellent Programme of Events that has me already looking forward with relish to next year.

– Maria Nolan

Ted Kennedy arriving with wife Kiki. Pic: Maria Nolan.

Email slaneynews@gmail.com and let us know what’s happening in your area

28

Slaney Sport

1 October 2013

www.slaneynews.com

Rapparees/Starlights news…

Multi-Sports Facility in Cherryorchard The proposed multi-sports facility at Cherryorchard is moving ahead with the 8-lane running track expected to be operational by Easter. In addition this facility will incorporate a 100m sprint track and will cater for 110m hurdles, steeplechase, long jump, triple jump, javelin throw, pole vault, discus throwing, hammer throwing, shot put, high jump and a natural playing pitch in the centre. This development, given the range of facilities, has the potential to be not just of benefit to the town but to the whole region.

The U-10 Rapparees team who participated in the Martin Doyle Memorial Hurling Tournament. Pic: Maria Nolan.

Well done to our Senior Footballers who beat Duffry Rovers in the Relegation Final to stay Senior Footballers! on a scoreline of 1.18 to 1.6 it was a comprehensive victory to secure our place once again in the senior ranks of next year ’s Championship - so well done to all concerned.

Our U-14s had a tremendous win at Killurin on Saturday to take the Division 1 hurling title beating Oylegate 3.7 to 1.6. A terrific effort was put in by both team and mentors to reach this final and a great performance was needed to take the honours and a great performance was what we got.

From beginning to end all these players hurled well and were determined to come away with nothing less than the County Cup - this is a perfect example of how hard work pays off - a huge amount of work was put into this team and done by this team and that’s why they were successful and got what they deserved.

Our thanks to all the players and all the parents who supported them throughout this campaign and also to our extremely hard working selec-

tors Willie Peare, Padraig Doyle and Pat O’Brien.

Our U-10 Tournament in memory of the late Martin Doyle took place at Bellefield recently with Ballyhogue, St. F i n t a n s , C ro s s a b e g a n d Rapparees participating. Well done to all the young players who performed. Martin Doyle would have been delighted with the level of skill displayed and the spirit in which the games were played. Thank you to Willie Peare and Ger McVeigh for organising the tournament and to Majella Murphy and all the ladies who provided the refreshments in the clubhouse afterwards.

Because of the new ethos of the GAA no trophies or cups could be presented but every child got a game and every child was presented with a medal by Maeve Doyle.

Padraig Doyle thanked the club and the participating teams on behalf of the family and said that his father who loved hurling and spent his life imparting that love to the youth of Enniscorthy would have been well pleased with the day.

– Maria Nolan

Wexford Ladies Footballers

Wexford Supporters Club Chairman Arthur Quinn making a presentation of a cheque for €3,500 to Ladies Football Secretary Breda Curran in recognition of their achievement in reaching this year’s Junior All Ireland Final.

Ul i

The Medcalf family with son Daithi and the U-14 Cup. Pic: Maria Nolan.

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i i

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Billy Redmond and Darragh Doyle with their Martin Doyle U-10 Memorial medals.

Pic: Maria Nolan.

Selector Padraig Doyle with son William.

Pic: Maria Nolan.

Unfortunately, the Wexford Ladies Footballers were not able to overcome Offaly in the Junior Football All Ireland on Sunday 29th Sept in Croke Park. With over 25,000 people in the Jones Road stadium and TG4 televising the event it is indicative of the tremendous rise in popularity all over the country for Ladies Football and nothing less than these young women deserve who give the same level of commitment to their clubs and counties as their male counterparts. On the day it has to be said that Offaly were the stronger side but full credit to our girls who fought to the bitter end in true Wexford tradition – they can hold their heads high and as a young and talented team look forward to next season with relish.

The girls were joined by the President of the Ladies Football Association Mr. Pat Quill at their post match reception in Bewleys Hotel, Leopardstown, where many tributes were paid to them by Tom Boland on behalf of the Wexford Supporters Club, Rachel Hogan as Secretary of their Camogie colleagues, Michael Bernie son of sponsor Dave Bernie, and finally by their Manager Billy Donnelly who said that he had no doubt that they would return to the same venue in 2014 with the All Ireland Junior Cup. – Maria Nolan

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Then call in to:

Ultimate Nutrition Ireland or call 087 743 2851

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To advertise in Slaneynews please call the Hotline 087-2403310

Slaney Leisure

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Rosemount in Bellefield The GAA Social Initiative was in full swing at Bellefield on Thursday 5th Sept as we hosted 50 members from Rosemount GAA club in Westmeath. There was ri ra agus ruaille buaille as the 50 strong group danced and sang the night away to music from Johnny Doran from Westmeath and our own guitar slinging, soft singing Willie Kearns from Ferns. And the Rosemount crew were on the floor all night including some of their older and livelier members who are octogenarians!

The trip scheduled under the Social Initiative Project was a huge success with Rosemount spending the night at the Riverside Park Hotel and enjoying all that Enniscorthy has to offer including the Castle, the 1798 Centre, Vinegar Hill and Ferns. And the feedback was thoroughly uplifting with many complimentary remarks about the hotel, its picturesque location and its exquisite cuisine.

They also had high praise for the entertaining and innovative tour of the ‘98 Centre and its friendly and informative staff … especially Rory.

John Bourke making a presentation to Rapparees/Starlights’ Maria Nolan.

Enniscorthy take a well deserved bow!

At Bellefield GAA Complex the clubs exchanged presentations as well as greetings and pleasantries and a good night in good company was had by all.

Before heading back to Westmeath the group plan to visit other Wexford attractions

including Johnstown Castle, The Dunbrody Famine Ship and the Kennedy Homestead.

As Social Initiative representative for South Leinster I was delighted to see Rosemount avail of the excellent offer from Enniscorthy Tourism to stay in the town and enjoy its amenities – historical, cultural and social at very competitive rates.

Glory days…

Starlights U-14 football panel.

Pic: Maria Nolan.

on a day when the amazing game of hurling reached even greater heights as Clare and Cork dished up yet another c r a c k e r i n C r o k e r, t h e Rapparees minor hurling team were taking on Crossabeg/ Ballymurn in Hollymount in the quest for a position in this year’s minor final.

And I think it would be fair to say that those in Hollymount were as well entertained as the Croke Park spectators with this wonderful game of hurling.

Two evenly matched teams hurling with passion and determination and the will to win – you just can’t beat it and there’s nothing quite like it!

The Hollymount crowd witnessed some great displays of skill with some fabulous scores taken, some lovely control and use of the ball and some excellent defending coupled with one or two exquisite saves - a game that had it all. And tremendous credit is due to the Rapparees who came off with

a scoreline of 1.20 to the oppositions 3.7 to secure their place in the final giving them the chance of doing the double at this level. Great credit to the lads on the field and the men over them – well done all and now we can look forward to both County Final days!

Speaking of county finals our U-14s contested their second county final in the same week having won the hurling final last Saturday they lined out against the Sarsfields in the football semi final and after a dreadful start where they went 8 points down and looked to be dead and buried they fought with heart and hand to claw their way back into the game which ended with the sides level at 5.2 each. Well done to all concerned who kept chipping away at it until they were back in contention and indeed could have won it in the closing stages. There was some confusion at the end as to whether it should go to extra

time or a replay but both teams agreed that a second day out was no more than the chaps deserved and so we will go into battle once again at a date to be decided. Well done all.

A very good day for the club with our U-16 camogie team securing their place in a county final winning the semi by a single point 1.7 to 1.6.

Great result girls and well done to you and your hard working mentors.

– Maria Nolan

Rapparees full back Liam Ryan coming forward with the ball.

Pic: Maria Nolan.

In July I forwarded the Enniscorthy Tourism package brochure to all of the 200 clubs around the country involved with the Initiative and I very much hope that Rosemount will be the first of many clubs to visit Enniscorthy and Bellefield GAA over the coming months.

We have such a lot to offer in Enniscorthy and its hinterland all we really need to do is get the word out.

A sincere thank you to John Bourke who organised the trip from the Westmeath end and Rosemount for the lovely visit – they are a pleasant group of warm, friendly, enthusiastic people who just want to bond and connect with other GAA people around the country sharing experiences, some tall tales and many happy memories.

– Maria Nolan

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MOVE Week monday october 7 to Sunday october 13, 2013.

The European MOVE WEEK is an annual Europe-wide campaign week promoting sport and physical activity and their positive impact on European societies.

Find out more at: www.nowwemove.com

Lots happening in Caim on 20th october in Caim there will be a 100 Vehicle Road Run starting at 12.30pm and afterwards a Threshing Day/ Vintage Rally. There will be entertainment and something for all the family to enjoy. It all takes place at Rackards Pub/Hardware.

There will be entertainment, stalls, vintage cars, tractors, lorries, motorbikes, steam engine and lots more.

Entry to the day is through donations on the gate. The donations for the day will be for Wexford Hospice Homecare.

So be there and have an enjoyable day with colleagues, friends and family.

Golf Notes As the inter-club tournaments and club competitive finals by now have been decided, it heralds the end of what was a fabulous golfing season.

The glorious summer saw an increase in visitor numbers and the great stay 'n' play offers in conjunction with the local hotels proved that Enniscorthy remains a favoured tourist destination among discerning golfers.

Recently, a large group of Welsh arrived – many were members of our twinned club, Carmarthen in North Wales. As the favourable weather continues it looks like golfers will be enjoying many more days of healthy exercise out on the course.

Nationally, clubs have recorded a decline in the number of members since the peak in 2004 with a loss of 37,000 affiliated members (G.U.I. stats for gents golf only) up to the end of October '12. However, looking at the car park in Enniscorthy golf club any day of the week full to the brim, it seems like golf, at least in Enniscorthy, is as strong as ever.

The introduction of the 5day membership proved to be very attractive and many are taking up full membership now that they've caught the golf-bug. For many who have time on their hands because of redundancy or retirement it has become a life-line to retaining their sanity through socialising, meeting and making friends while keeping in touch with local news.

There are also the healthy physical side-effects of exercise in the open air playing as many or few holes as you're up to.

Enniscorthy ladies have recently introduced a new initiative to introduce new com-

ers to other lady members who want to come out and see what ladies golf has to offer. With a strong and vibrant ladies section having recently brought a Leinster title home to Enniscorthy with the Senior Foursome who were just pipped for an All-Ireland title last week.

The social calendar in the club includes wine tasting, singing, pilates, bridge and cards with a full Sky Sports TV package to name just a few.... oh yes... and there's the golf!

If you’re interested in having a look around without obligation feel free to contact Jim 087-2507330.

Above: Pearl Deane, Lady President Stella Byrne and Marie Frizelle. Below: Group of Carmarthen Golf Club members.

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Slaney News

EnnISCoRTHy EyE a column by Joseph Doyle

SucceSSful BlueS feST The 19th Blackstairs Blues Festival held in Enniscorthy this year was the best one we have had so far – these words were spoken to me by the committee’s Richie Cotter.

Chairman Ibar Carty told me that the numbers in attendance this year were up on the previous years and it was a great success. I can certainly tell you readers if you missed this year you missed a cracker of a festival. I said last month in the Enniscorthy Eye that I wasn’t a massive blues fan but this festival is one of the best in Ireland in my book.

There were some acts that stood out for me head and shoulders above the rest. Kenny Blue & The Soul Machine did not disappoint the crowds.

They blew me away. They are a new band from the Wexford, New Ross, Kilkenny area and consists of Kenny Blue on vocals/guitar/harmonica. Kellie Campbell on vocals/tambourine. Rob Kp on bass/vocals.

David Gormely on alto sax.

Adam Nolan on tenor sax and Alex Furlong on drums.

Backing singer Kellie was a joy to watch – she is an excellent backing singer and has a lovely voice. The two saxophone players add to this band and with Kenny fronting and Kellie on backing vocals they’re definitely a candidate for next year’s late night gig. I’d love the

Strawberry Fair to book these guys for the Sunday night slot.

Among their set was some non blues songs like Lonely Boy and Sex on Fire. The band also did three of their own songs Wednesday Night being one of these. They may be a newly formed band but they’re going places.

They are about to record their first EP which will be launched around Christmas time this year. For more info on this band check out Facebook or YouTube for Kenny Blue & The Soul Machine.

The second band that drew my attention was a band called BabaJack. This band have very good stage presence and had some excellent songs. I had the privilege of interviewing them and they were a really laid back pair. The lead singer Becky Tate is a joy to watch on stage and her long flowing red hair adds to the performance. Trevor the guitarist and harmonica player made a guitar out of an old wine box. This band have their third album out on the 7th October called Running Man. The 68s packed out Holohans and were superb.

The last band that impressed was Crow Black Chicken.

Well done on an excellent blues festival.

– Joseph Doyle

 Happy 40th birthday Anthony Breen who had his birthday party in Enniscorthy Rugby Club recently.  Happy birthday to Tim Connaughton.  Happy birthday to Garry O’Flynn in MAD and two fellow staff celebrating significant birthdays – Fidelma Hogan and Clare O’Neill.  Significant birthday – Anne Ryan, John Ryan.  New baby congratulations to Fiacra Ryan Jnr and Bernie Coleman on the birth of their son Fiacra Jnr. Baby Fiacra is the 5th generation of Fiacras born into the Ryan family.  Wedding bells for Aideen and John Connolly who were married in Glenbrien church recently and held their reception in the Ferrycarrig Hotel.

Also Mark and Jenny who

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DaTeS for your Diary STRAWBERRy FAIR AGm – 1st october Riverside Park Hotel at 8pm. mEnTAL HEALTH IRELAnD CoFFEE moRnInG - 3rd october See details on page 10.

coNgraTulaTioNS were married in Co. Cork recently.  Celebrity birthdays: Katy Perry, Julie Andrews, Julia Roberts, Arthur Guinness.  Congratulations to Johnny Mythen on his election as Town Council Chairman.  Wexford Ladies Junior Football team almost achieved All Ireland glory.  Congratulations to Sean MacDonald (shocky) and Anita Kennedy who will be getting married on 26th October.

If you have a birthday, wedding or christening or any special occasion email your details to Joseph Doyle (doyleduffry @gmail.com) and we’ll try and accommodate you. Also a picture of the occasion would be most welcome.

– Joseph Doyle

LoCAL TEnnIS CLuB TABLE QuIz - 4th october Hillbrook Lawn Tennis Club (Enniscorthy) is holding a quiz night in The Bailey in Enniscorthy on Friday 4th of October. Each team will consist of 4 and the cost per team is €40. There will be lots of spot prizes on the night so it should be good fun. mICHEAL ByRnE mEmoRIAL CuP – 5th october Castledockrell vs Enniscorthy VEC Dream Team, Ajax pitch, 3pm, adm €3, all proceeds go to Pieta House.

LoVE HATE – 6th october Drama fans don't forget to set your sky box recorder, if you have one, for the 4th season of Love Hate. This award winning crime drama will hit our screens earlier then usual as it returns on 6th of Oct. It would be a crime to miss it. I’ll be doing a small feature on this in next month’s Enniscorthy Eye. ConCERT FoR JACK - 11th october A major concert in aid of Jack Kavanagh who was paralysed as a result of a swimming accident will take place in St Aidan’s Cathedral on Oct 11th. See page 14.

CLASS oF 1993 REunITED – 12th october The class of 1993 of Colaiste Bride will reunite at D Bar, Templeshannon on Saturday Oct 12th. Tickets are available from Denise Murphy Kehoe on 087-7703967 or from Nessa Byrne at Annettes Flowers, Court Street.

HALLoWEEn “THRILLER” FAnCy DRESS – 26th october In aid of Alzheimers. The Bailey. See full details page 32.

HoPE CAnDLE DAy - 1st november See details below. as event details may change, it would be prudent to check all events locally with the organisers and/or venues.

See our entertainment listing on page 11. n

STricTly coMe DaNciNg

BabaJack taking time out from performing in the Blackstairs Blues to enjoy the Slaney News! Pic: © Joseph Doyle.

Hope Cancer Support Centre fundraising

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1 October 2013

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Local GAA clubs are seeking some fun loving dancers to take part in this competition. The clubs involved are Rapparees/Starlights, Shamrocks and Rathnure.

The final will be in the Riverside Park Hotel in January so get your dancing shoes on for your club and good luck!

opereTTa The operetta in aid of The Athenaeum Restoration Fund is a fringe event of Wexford Festival opera and is now in its 5th year. It will take place on Thursday 24th october in the Riverside Park Hotel.

I attended this event a few years back and it was a great night. I am not an opera fan but it’s a good cause and always a great night with dancing afterwords to the Duffry Stompers.

This year, folks, you have five very talented ladies to entertain you and each with a different flavour to tickle your musical taste buds. All five female singers have different vocal ranges and have different styles. Among those on this year’s bill are Aisling Williams – a professional singer who has a varied range of songs in her collection one of which is The Rose. Aileen Donohoe is another pro who sings beautifully. She tends to sing songs from the musicals she’s been in so expect something from Les Miserables or Wicked. Another voice from the musicals world is Therese Canavan Bolger – a brilliant singer who can sing anything from any show to modern songs.

Stephanie Kinsella – this youngster is a cross between Charlotte Church and Catherine Jenkins and has a bright feature ahead of her and could do very well also in the pop world or fronting a rock band.

Tickets €40 from Maura in Siopa Céird, Castle Hill 087 3550085; Helen 087 2637178; Tony 053 9235353; Riverside Park Hotel 053 9237800, athenaeumoperetta@gail.com, – Joseph Doyle

Slaney Arts

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Drama comes home Following hot on the heels of our recent 3 night sell-out production of The Tinker’s Wedding and ritual for Dolls at The Presentation Centre we are delighted to announce that Enniscorthy Drama is once again ready to hit the road in the quest for glory on the All Ireland Drama Circuit!

Siobhan Duggan’s production of Ritual for Dolls has been confirmed for four One Act Drama Festivals: • Dundrum, Dublin, 7th Nov. • Goresbridge, Kilkenny, 15th Nov. • Rossmore, West Cork, 16th Nov. • Gorey, Wexford, 22nd Nov. An ambitious undertaking for such a new group, having to win 3 out of the 4 festivals to qualify, but director, Siobhan Duggan, is quietly confident that Ritual for Dolls will perform well in each of the venues and hopes to achieve a placing in the All Ireland Finals in Roscommon.

“My cast are excellent” she said. “Ritual got a very good reception in Enniscorthy recently and I am thrilled that they are now getting a chance to take the play to a wider audience after all their hard work and dedication.”

Chairman of Enniscorthy Drama and fellow director, Colm Coomey, said that he was excited and enthused with the prospect

Eoin Colfer to officially open 62nd Wexford Festival Opera

“Ritual for Dolls” L-R: Caroline Busher, Jamie Murphy, Director Siobhan Duggan, Tim Connaughton, Marguerite Casey.

of competing for All Ireland success so soon after the formation of the group and the staging of its inaugural productions but he added “nothing breeds success like success” so its onward and upward for drama in Enniscorthy!

As part of the preparation for the One Act Circuit it is planned to stage Ritual for Dolls again in Enniscorthy with another one act production in the coming weeks so for those of you who didn’t see it first time round – watch this space!

And good luck and congratulations to Siobhan and her cast.

Go n-eiri an Ta libh.

– Maria Nolan, pro, enniscorthy Drama group

Enniscorthy Drama Group Wishes to thank the people of Enniscorthy for their massive endorsement of The Tinker’s Wedding & Ritual for Dolls at The Presentation Centre on 24th/29th/30th Aug & All Patrons/Sponsors/ Friends/Backstage/ Front of House/ Mairead Linneen/ Presentation Staff & All who contributed in any way to the success of their inaugural productions.

Bestselling author and Wexfordian, Eoin Colfer, will officially open the 62nd Wexford Festival opera on Wednesday, october 23 at 7pm in a special quayside ceremony and fireworks display, which attracts up to 20,000 people annually.

Eoin, a native of Wexford, showed a keen interest in writing from an early age, writing exciting stories of Vikings, which inhabited his home town once upon a time.

Since then, the majority of his published works have been New York Times bestsellers.

Recently it was announced that Eoin’s hugely popular Artemis Fowl series is to be adapted for the big screen.

Produced by Walt Disney Pictures and Harvey Weinstein, the film is set to cover the events of the first two books of the series.

However, it wasn’t just writing that interested the

Pic: Patrick Browne

young author. As a child, Eoin also performed in the children’s chorus of Wexford Festival Opera. Commenting on being asked to officially open the festival this year, Eoin said, “I am thrilled to be opening this year's festival. The festival has played an important role in every stage of my life in Wexford, and the people the festival has brought together in the town have been an inspiration to me and countless

Support the artS… Wexford arts Centre 053-9123764. the presentation Centre, enniscorthy 053-9233000.

New Slaney Writing…

Regular poetry contributor martin Joseph Byrne has finished a second book – a ghostlike two-year period where he was the ghost revisiting old places.

‘After August’, part of a two-year dual project, is in Martin Joseph’s own words “…an intimate reflection on past relationships steeped in scatological parallels. It develops around an earnest approach to the self-same and the impious self-centre. An experimental advance on life in which a sense of self-discovery and fearless regretting divulge.

The myriad envelopes of spirituality and forceful lyrics are an escape from the hushpuppy existence of the contemporary Irish poet. In adhering to the philosophies of Rimbaud and in searching for what he called a ‘real poet,’ I have made myself look as low as possible. Lewd and crude as it may be, ‘After August’ is courageously honest.”

LoVER ComE To mE

BALLyCARnEy BRIDGE

by Donal cullen

by Mary cotter

Lover come to me let me hold you Let me hold you in my dream, Take you down to the meadow.

Today you’re hot, have I lost the plot I’m crazy on you, lover come to me Boy loves girl, and girl loves boy Please come back to me, Give love a chance, save the last dance.

Ballycarney Bridge is old, Even the swans know The stones are the grey of aging.

Coffee for one is not so great When you don’t have the one you love In your corner to hold hands.

To smile back at you, I’m living a life without you You tease to please.

I’m crazy on you, lover come to me I love you give me a chance And save the last dance. n

How many pikemen marched, Or ran or listened?

To the water noises.

Thinking of what they had left What lay before And no one to work the fields.

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other budding artists.

Opening the Festival is the perfect way to celebrate the core connection that I feel with the opera.”

The Fireworks display is undoubtedly the climax of the ceremony and Energia, Ireland’s leading independent energy supplier has come on board to light up the skies over Wexford as the sponsor of the opening night fireworks display.

LIBRARy nEWS… See: www.wexford.ie/wex/ Departments/Library/Whatson/ for details of what’s on in your local library. you can also check out your local library on Facebook.

AuSTERE

by Martin Joseph Byrne A spiritually vacant piece of psychotic love.

Dawn and Latin chorus’s gather, The fire belt along the mountain Rim burnished, Foggy dell and hinterland, The raven seduces heavy air, Wingspan upon wing lap upon wing, Across the meadow ferries the bleat Of a mothering ewe, Christ walks these grass track laneways, I delve through an old iron trunk, Looking for letter and old annotation, I find you there, shimmering fane, Dressed in word and bound in prose.

Were you ever there?

Did desire perish in design?

What the Slaney knows The Slaney keeps Close to her watery chest.

As we walked the shore, Egyptian sandals, English garden hat, and flushed summer dress, Seaweed lag softly green apathy, From my satchel, I placed a gift into your hand,

They jump in the Slaney And die, at Ballycarney Scarawelsh and Enniscorthy.

The coroner's court Records the facts And no one to work the fields. n

You wore it each day, amorously, the scent Arousing my senses, I took you where You stood at every opportunity, the scent Intoxicating, Eternity, an emblem of love, The scent, her perfume. n

“The First Song” by Martina McAteer.

Martina’s exhibition is in An Tobar, Wexford Heritage Centre during Wexford Opera Festival.

Third time lucky?

Will it be third-time lucky for Enniscorthy writer Colm Tóibín?

Colm is one of six writers to make this year’s Man Booker shortlist for his 112-page novella The Testament of Mary which concerns the life of Mary, mother of Jesus, in her old age. Colm was previously shortlisted for the prestigious prize in 1999 with The Blackwater Lightship and again in 2004 with The Master.

The novella, which was adapted and staged on Broadway earlier this year, is one of the favourites to scoop the Stg£50,000 first prize.

Please send your poetry, prose, pics, reviews etc to: slaneynews@gmail.com

32

Slaney News

Recently, on a trip to the Capital I decided that I would like to experience the much talked about and extremely popular Tenement 1913 Lockout Experience only to find to my dismay that it was so popular that it was completely booked out! not a spot to be had for the foreseeable future.

Not to be thwarted and not to waste the `last of the summer wine` days of a sultry September wandering expensively in and out of overheated city shops I opted instead to head to Sandycove and visit James Joyce`s Martello Tower, something I had been meaning to do for a while now - and might I say an excellent choice it was too!

The weather was sublime and Sandycove was dazzling in the late summer sun with bathers of every age and assortment enjoying the cool blue waters of the infamous 40 foot stretching out as far as the eye could see to rows of tiny white sails shimmering like a string of pearls on the quivering horizon. Some Americans who were gathering to enter the Martello Tower were asking what kind of temperature the water in the 40 foot would be at and I told them that we only do two cold and colder! They were also amazed to hear that the 40 foot had been a male only bathing place until the late 70`s when several young Dublin feminists decided to challenge the antiquated tradition by arriving in bathing suits ready to take to the waters. The nude males who were swimming there at the time thought that they might intimidate the young ladies into leaving by brazenly walking out of the water in their nakedness. The ruse failed

1 October 2013

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Bloomin Brilliance The room in the Martello Tower in Sandycove that James Joyce shared with Oliver St. John Gogarty and Trench. Pic: Maria Nolan.

The infamous 40 foot at Sandycove.

Pic: Maria Nolan.

however as they obviously forgot the effect cold water has on parts of the male anatomy leaving them anything but intimidating.

Today male and female swim happily in the cool, clear gender free waters of the 40 Foot.

The welcome in the Martello Tower was warm and inviting and we were told by a smiling lady behind the front desk that the Tour Guide was just finishing with a group and would be with us as quickly as possible. In the meantime we were free to browse all the artefacts and gathered memorabilia, including James Joyce`s walking stick, waistcoat, tie and guitar – as Joyce it would appear

was quite an accomplished musician and singer causing Nora Barnacle to remark once when things were not going well on the literary scene for him `You should have stuck to the singing Jimmy` .

I asked how much the tour would cost and was told that it was free of charge another surprise for our American visitors. The Martello Tower is actually run by a group of Joycean volunteers who wanted to preserve the memory of both Joyce and the tower and have managed to do so excellently.

Our Guide, appropriately enough named James, was a jovial fellow and imparted great chunks of information with slivers of humour which

made the 30 minute tour effortless and enjoyable. He began by explaining that the Martello Tower was one of 28 towers erected around the Dublin coast by the English - 16 on the south side and 12 on the north side of the city to keep Napoleon and his armies out of Ireland. These towers took their name from the place in Corsica where Napoleon was born and housed large cannon ready to defend against the French invader.

They obviously did what they said on the tin remarked our Guide James - ‘otherwise I’d be giving this tour in French’.

And no thanks to Napoleon or the English, the

most famous of the towers is the one at Sandycove - with all acclaim and eminence coming from the fact that the first chapter of James Joyce`s celebrated book Ulysses takes place here.

T h e To w e r i n f a c t belonged to another literary persona of the era – Oliver St. John Gogarty who bought it to establish and foster a house of entertainment for Dublin`s intelligencia of the time. Joyce stayed there for 6 nights in September 1904 and left it rather rapidly following an incident when himself, Gogarty and a rather obnoxious English man called Trench were sharing the same room after a nights drinking together. At some stage dur-

ing the night the Englishman awoke and thought that he saw a black Panther in the fire place, drew his revolver as you do and began shooting at it. Gogarty wakened abruptly and wrestled the revolver from him and instead of calming him down and putting the weapon away began firing shots over James Joyces head - no doubt Joyce took the hint that he had outstayed his welcome and left immediately never to return.

In the room where the 3 men slept they have placed a figure of a black Panther in the fireplace – which certainly adds to the telling of the story.

Although Gogarty and Joyce were for a time close friends the friendship deteriorated with each resenting the other and Joyce frowning on Gogarty as a conformist and Gogarty in turn attributing paranoia to Joyce.

But it would appear that Joyce had the last laugh with Gogarty’s Martello Tower enjoying fame and prominence through its portrayal in the first chapter of his renowned Ulysses.

On the 16th June – or Bloomsday – as it is now known Joyceans from all over the world gather at the Martello Tower in Sandycove clad in stylish Edwardian garb having enjoyed a breakfast of ‘inky inner organs’ to celebrate with readings, dramatisations and musical recitals the genius of James Joyce and the utter brilliance of Ulysses.

As the great man puts it himself: ‘I’ve put so many enigmas and puzzles that it will keep the professors busy for centuries arguing over what I meant and that’s the only way to secure one’s immortality’.

– Maria Nolan

Halloween tHriller Fancy Dress

A local message to the people of Co. Wexford from The Alzheimer Society of Ireland…

Fundraising is a vital source of funding for The Alzheimer Society of Ireland. The funds you have raised will be used in Wexford to provide important services to support people with dementia and their families. Donations such as yours go a long way in helping us to provide these services to those who really need them.

Dementia affects almost 44,000 people and touches the lives of 50,000 carers and hundreds of thousands of family members in Ireland. It presents one of the greatest population health challenges both

here in Ireland and globally.

With our ageing population and longer life expectancy, prevalence rates for dementia are going to dramatically rise in the years to come. Because of this, demand for our services is rising, with more than 1,400 people currently on The Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s waiting list for services.

Donations and Fundraising like this help us to continue tackling these waiting lists and make our vital services available to more Irish families.

The Alzheimer Society of Ireland has over 126 specialist services including Day Care, Home Care, Respite Care and our National Helpline which

offers information and support to people with dementia, their families and carers.

Donations such as yours are vital to ensure we can keep

up this important work.

In County Wexford we provide county wide home care, day care in Enniscorthy, New Ross and Wexford town

on Saturdays, an Alzheimer café and social club.

Thank you from all of us, for your support. Please remember if you need further information or details of services in your area, do not hesitate to telephone our Alzheimer National Helpline on 1800 341 341.

–––––––––––––––––––– Rosaleen Casey and colleagues i n P e t t i t t ’ s S u p e r Va l u i n Enniscorthy are organising a Halloween “Thriller” Fancy Dress night on Saturday 26th October in aid of The Alzheimer Society of Ireland in The Bailey, Enniscorthy at 9pm. Tickets €10, available from Rosaleen Casey or Paul Robinson in Pettitt’s or at the door on the night.

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The four Pettitt’s stores in Co. Wexford will support the “Thriller” event by having a Staff Halloween Fancy Dress work day on Thursday 31st Oct. There will be a bucket collection at all checkouts on this day and your support would be most welcome.