27/9/2007
Birr Tradespeople Aiding Streetwise Project In Durban

By Padraig McIntyre

In 2005 a group of local tradespeople from Birr and surrounding areas ventured to South Africa to work on the Street-Wise hostel for street children located in Marianhill, Durban South Africa.
 The aim of streetwise is to provide a home for some of the thousands of children living on Durban’s streets. Children as young as five are lost to a life of hunger and despair. Street life is harsh. Children become victims of rape and sexual abuse, other physical violence and disease. Survival through begging and scavenging is almost impossible and many of the children are swept into a world of prostitution and petty crime.
  Almost all of Durban’s street children sniff glue in an attempt to take away the hunger pains and the depression of their existence. This temporary escape leads to a condition called Peripheral Neuropathy which destroys the central nervous system leaving the children crippled.
  The future for a child growing up in the streets is bleak. If a child survives the violence and abuse, there is a good chance they will end up in jail. However the biggest crisis facing children is AIDS. Durban’s street children live in one of the highest risk categories possible foe contracting the disease. Living on the streets is literally becoming a death sentence.
  Streetwise Durban is a project for street children that was set up in 1989. It is based on the principles of compassion, care and empowerment. 
  The residential rehabilitation centre is situated in Marianhill, Durban and cares for former street children whilst reconciliation work is done with their families. The children receive love and care and counselling from team of dedicated social workers and child care workers. 
  The streetwise home is little more than an old disused mill that is in poor condition which houses up to sixty Children. On our trip to Streetwise in 2005 we provided basic needs such as toilets, shower and electricity to the living area  of the building. The trip was a huge success and in only three weeks eight tradesmen managed to provide most of the basic needs for the staff and children, thanks to the generosity of our sponsors and many donors.
  Next week we propose to carry out a second phase of work to the Streetwise building which will include taking down of some of the old structure that is gone beyond repair and is now in a critical state, re-roofing part of the structure, which due to its age is about to fall, and constructing proper sleeping quarter for some of  the children.
  All tradespersons travelling on this trip are paying for their own flights and accommodation, However money is greatly needed, towards the purchase of materials for the project. A race Night in aid of the Streetwise Renovation Project is taking place on the 28st September in The Fighting Cocks Pub, Birr. This has been organised and run by Watkins family who have been one of our biggest supporters. Your Support would be greatly appreciated.
  Local People travelling to South Africa this October include, Declan Gleeson, Philip Corboy, Padraig McIntyre, Paddy McIntyre, Tom Smyth, Mary McKeon, Gareth Rooney, Edmund McEvoy, Eamon Dempsey, Ronan Lavery  Peter Clucas, Kieran Shine and Martin O'Brien.
  For Further information please contact Padraig Mc Intyre (057) 91 23809.

27/9/2007
A Humbling Experience In South Africa 

By Aoife O'Carroll

This summer I travelled to south Africa as a volunteer in a créche/preschool with underprivileged children. I travelled with a 'not-for-profit' organisation, EIL Intercultural learning. My first week in Capetown was spent with the other fifty volunteers on an orientation programme to learn more abou the social, political and cultural aspects of South Africa. 
  We visited some of the Township areas, starting out in a museum to learn more abut the history behind the townships and the people living there. We heard about District Six, the home of the black and coloured people before 1966, steeped in culture, music, adventure and tradition. The apartheid system forced people to move out to the Cape flats and declared District Six as a 'white only area'. Thousands of men, women and children were uprooted from their homes and forced to move out to informal settlements (Shacks) such as Langa, Guguletu and Khayelitsha. 
  Driving through some of the townships, namely Langa and Khayelitsha, was a very surreal experience. Lack of proper housing, sanitary provisions and amenities have resulted in these areas becoming impoverished slums. My project was to volunteer in a creche, called Liefdespoort in Philippi, a very poor farming community. Whilst volunteering here, I lived with a host family, Rita and Jonathan Cottle in Mitchell's plain, a suburb of Capetown. 
  My first day at the creche was an eye opener. The creche caters for fifty six children ranging from the ages of two to six. The children live nearby on the farms where their parents work for a pittance. Rita, my host mother, brought us on a journey to visit the area and to give us an insight as to where these children come from.
  I could see row after row of tiny shacks, built with wood and galvanised tin, mud and dirt everywhere. I could see small bonfires lit and people standing around to keep warm, children played with metal scraps, old tyres, hungry and impoverished. No i-pods or playstations here. 
  The first week was challenging, getting up at 6.15a.m. and travelling to the child welfare office. We would travel with our bus driver Mr Johannes to the creche and arrive at 8a.m. The children would arrive soon after. We would greet them and give them some breakfast. After eating, we would play games and care for the children. Many of them would require light medical attention for insect bites, others would have blisters from shoes which were too small for them or burns from open fires. Other cuts and bruises would result from horseplay and mischief. 
  After that it was art time painting pictures, colouring in or playing games. A lot of the children suffered from foetal alcohol syndrome as their parents are chronic alcoholics and so they could not concentrate for long periods, and it was very difficult for them to be calm, so learning was restricted to short periods. 
  The children loved to play in the playground area at the back of the creche, built by Irish volunteers two years ago. Dinner was served at around 12.15p.m. Afterwards the children would have nap time and then go home between 2p.m. and 3p.m.
  One little girl often visited the creche. Her name was Simone, nickname Nikki, and she was twelve years old. Usually she would come in her barefeet and threadbare dirty clothes. Her mother explained that Simone's father doesn't support her and she receives no financial aid from the government so life is very difficult for this family and many more in the same situation. 
  A pair of shoes for Simone cost 50 rand, the equivalent of €5. Mr Johannes, the man who works for child welfare, collects the children from the farms outside their shacks, delivers them to the creche and collects them again. He is paid 1200 rand a month, approx €120, not a lot to feed his family for a full month. The fund is now running short and if the creche does not receive assistance they will no longer be able to pay Mr Johannes which sadly means the majority of children will have no way to travel to creche. 
  Having witnessed at first hand the deprivation and suffering of these children and the little solace they get from the creche, it would be so sad to see it closing down due to lack of funds. Should any reader like to make a donation I will forward same on your behalf to the creche - Aoife O'Carroll, Sandyvalley, Syngefield, Birr. 

27/9/2007
Tánaiste Welcomes Funding For Estate In Crinkle 

The Tánaiste and Minister for Finance, Mr Brian Cowen T.D., has welcomed the news that funding of almost €50,000 has been approved under the new Sustainable Communities Fund for a project at the Grove Street Estate which is on the outskirts of Crinkle village.  The formal announcement was made by Mr Batt O’Keeffe T.D., Minister for Housing, Urban Renewal and Developing Areas.
  The Tánaiste explained that the Sustainable Communities Fund was set up to support local authority pilot projects which promote more sustainable communities through better use of housing renewal and improvement of the housing stock and living environments. The Fund is supportive of the objectives of the Government’s recently published housing policy statement – Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities. 
  The Tánaiste went on to say, “In the case of the Grove Street Estate, the Council propose to engage an architect to draw up an environmental improvement plan for the estate.  The plan will take into consideration open space regeneration for use of children, youth and older people; lighting provision and improvements; resurfacing of back lanes; landscaping; and small-scale infrastructural development.  Residents will have the opportunity to be involved in the planning, design and implementation of the project.
  The total cost of the project is estimated at €95,000 for which, the Sustainable Communities Fund will provide assistance of 50% of the costs incurred (€47,500).”
  The Tánaiste concluded by saying, 'Projects such as that proposed for the Grove Street Estate will be hugely important in developing new approaches to delivering the type of communities that are needed in today’s fast-changing society.  The Sustainable Communities Fund offers an opportunity to test new thinking on how to achieve an integrated approach where people are happy to live and in which all residents can participate and prosper.'

27/9/2007
Birr Irish Music Classes 

Classes in traditional Irish instrumental music will recommence in Birr later this month. An information and enrolment night will take place in the Marian hall on Monday next 24th September at 8pm (Sharp) at which details of the facilities available will be announced. Existing students should attend with a parent or other adult as well as new pupils. 
  These classes are being arranged by the Birr Branch of Comhaltas and provide an opportunity for young people of the area to learn a skill in playing a musical instrument. An indication of the popularity of Irish music amongst the youth of the country was the huge number of young people who took part in the recent All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in Tullamore. 
  It is hoped that these classes will be full availed of in the Birr area. Further information from branch secretary, Donal Morrissey at (087) 9347968. 

27/9/2007
Birr News Digest

Rambles in Eireann
  Sunday 7th October. Walk will be held in Clara. Meet at 2p.m. prompt at Fivealley or 2.30p.m. at the RC Church in Clara. Walk will commence at 2.30p.m. sharp. Guided tour of the town and light refreshments afterwards. Contact Noel Quegan on 9133128 or Ben Oakley on 9122141 if lift is required. New members welcome. 

Birr Resource Centre
  Birr Resource Centre is a facility for Community and Voluntary groups. We provide affordable meeting space for these groups. 
Also New Art classes with Judy Pearson are on a Tuesday afternoon and Kidz Kraftz will be starting again in October so watch this space for more details.
For more details plese phone Mary on (057) 9121912 office hours are 9.30-1.30 Monday to Friday

Camcor Bridge Club
  Bridge will resume on Wednesday September 26th at 7.30p.m. in the County Arms Hotel, Birr. A committee meeting will be  held on Wednesday October 3rd at 7.15p.m.

Wilmer Tennis Club
  Congratulations to the Wilmer Tennis Club's Division 4 team which won the Midland League title in Nenagh last Wednesday by defeating Athlone in the final. The tie was deadlocked at 2-2 after the mens and ladies doubles and the two mixed doubles so it went to a reversed mixed to decide the outcome and Wilmer held their nerve to win that and claim the title. The team members were Cathal Barber, Gary King, Noeleen Harding and Michelle Tierney, who was subbing for Karen Smith.
  This was the second Midland League title the club has claimed in a couple of weeks as the Division 5 team of Ann O'Meara, Catherine Barry, Ann Quinlan and Ann Coughlan had already won the Division 5 title.
  Congratulations to them all and best of luck to the Division 2 team which is just setting out on its quest for Midland League honours.
  The club championships are due to begin shortly. There will be mixed doubles, mens doubles, ladies doubles and mens and ladies singles. If you are interested in playing put your name on the sheets on the noticeboard in the clubhouse. Entries must be in by this Friday September 28th. The format will be slightly different for the championships this year. The mixed doubles will be run off first over a two week period, followed by the mens and ladies doubles over another two week period and finishing with the singles over a single week.
  The annual John Joe Sheeran tournament will be held on Friday October 5th. Anyone interested in playing can put their name on the sheet on the clubhouse noticeboard.

Irish Heart Foundation - World Heart Day
  Why not join with Birr Lions Club members and friends and the O'Donoghue Family (who are training for a record attempt for the number of siblings to complete a marathon) for a walk on Sunday September 30th? the walk will start from Emmet Square at 1p.m. and will last approximately two hour, 5-7km approx. All are welcome.

Birr Order Of Malta
  Birr Order of Malta will be holding a fully certified Basic First Aid Course commencing on Wednesday October 10th at 7.30p.m. in the old Health Centre, Birr. Any enquiries to (087) 9079617.

Last Week Of Sale
  Greg Smith Menswear, Green St, Birr, Tel (057) 9125472 - last week of sale. All Summer stock must go - Kartel, Remus, Magee, Andre, Farah and many more (Advert).

Blood Donation Clinic
  A blood donation clinic will be held at the Marian Hall Birr on Thursday and Friday October 4th and 5th. Times of the clinic on Thursday are from 2.30p.m. to 4.45p.m. and 7p.m. to 9.30p.m. and on the Friday from 10.30a.m. to 12.30p.m. and 2.30p.m. to 4.45p.m.

Gala Fundraising Concert
  'Rolling back the years' - Clonlisk National School celebration concert featuring past and present pupils in the Community Centre, Shinrone on Saturday October 6th at 8.30p.m. Admission adults €10, children €5. Book early to avoid disappointment. Tickets are available from Clonlisk NS (0505) 47421, Byrne's Shop, Dunkerrin, Mary at (087) 7461134 or Anne at (087) 2886265.

Cookery Demonstration By Darina Allen
  Darina Allen, Ballymaloe Cookery School will host a cookery demonstration on 11th October in the Shannon Oaks Hotel.  Tickets cost €30 each which includes a Cheese & Wine Reception and a chance to win an overnight Spa Break in the 'Temple Country Retreat & Spa', Moate. Tickets are on sale from Na Calai CDP (090) 9741887, Susan Royston (086) 2051346 and locally from Jonathan Haslam and Jillian Dagg, Brambles. All proceeds in aid of  Sign Out Youth Café Project, Na Calai CDP, Portumna. 

Community Support For Older People
  Applications are now invited from Community and Voluntary Groups for funding under the 2007 Scheme  of Community Support for Older People. This scheme aims to improve the security and social support of vulnerable older people in their homes by providing grants for :
  Window locks; door locks and door chains designed to strengthen points of entry to the dwelling; security lighting;  the once off cost of installing socially monitored alarm systems; smoke alarms.
  Voluntary or Community based Organisations working with or providing support for older people can apply to participate under this scheme. Birr Neighbourhood Watch have received funding in previous years under similar schemes and intend to apply again this year.
  Persons living within Birr Urban District wishing to avail of such assistance should apply as soon as possible, stating their requirements and supplying such information as is required by the Department.  It should be noted that the lower age limit for applicants is 65 years of age.  Those with younger people residing in the premises do not qualify.
  Applications to:- Michael Hough Tel.  (087) 6870713; Rosaleen Harding Tel  (087) 642 7506; Dympna Mackintosh  (057) 91 22274.
  Please Note : If you have applied for and completed the application form , it should be returned by 31st of October 2007. For further information please contact any of the above .

Poetry, Song, Comedy And Music At Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
  The weekend kicks off with an evening of poetry and song with The Creagh Family from Rathdowney on Friday 28th September.  Join comedian David O’Doherty on Saturday 29th September for a night of laughs.  Nyle Wolfe presents ‘Moodswings’ on Sunday 30th September – a night of Sinatra, Bennett, Elvis and more. Tickets available for all events just call: (057) 9122911.  For further info see www.birrtheatre.com 

Birr Harvest
  A service of Harvest Thanksgiving will be held at St. Brendan’s Church of Ireland Church in Birr this Sunday, the 30th of September, at 3.30p.m. The preacher will be Fr. David Carroll, Curate at St. Brendan’s Roman Catholic Church. There will be a cup of tea available in St. Brendan’s Hall after the service. All are welcome. There will be no 11.00a.m. service at the Church of Ireland in Birr this Sunday.

Marathon
  Why not take part in the Dublin City Marathon on October 29th on behalf of GROW, the Community Mental Health Movement?   Sponsorship cards and details from the Midlands office phone (057) 9351124.   Closing date for entry is October 8th.

St Brendan's Environmental Group
  St Brendan's Environmental Group has been the umbrella organisation for the FAS Community empoloyment Scheme in the Birr area for the past 15 years. The group includes many of the sporting, charitable and community bodies in the area. A new programme of work will start in October and a number of participants are required. Applications in writing to G. Sammon, Secretary, 7 Seffin Avenue, Birr.

Ormond Hunt
  Hunters trials on October 14th starting at 10.30a.m. at Gurteen College. All classes and under 12s. Contact David Masterson (086) 0722941.

Race Night
  Race Night in aid of Streetwise Renovation Project in The Fighting Cocks pub, Friday 28th September at 8.30p.m.

GROW
  A Grow Group meets each week in Birr. If you are someone who experienced depression or anxiety attacks or who is simply in need of company do come along. You will have an opportunity to meet others, share your problems in confidence, get support and make new friends. All are welcome. No fees. Meetings take place in the Community Health Centre, The Convent, Wilmer Road, Birr at 7.30p.m. every Tuesday. For further information please contact Ruairi on (087) 2510965 or (057) 9351124.
  Website:www.grow.ie  Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Dochas
  The Offaly Cancer Support Group is based at Teach Dóchas, Offaly St., Tullamore. They offer support to people living with cancer and their families and carers. Opening hours: Monday to Friday 10a.m to 2p.m. Telephone 05793 28268 email: dochasoffaly@eircom.net. 

Farmers Vegetable Market
  Farmers Vegetable Market will be in the Marian Hall Car Park every Saturday between 10a.m.-5p.m. (Advert)

Social Dancing
  There will be two nights of social dancing in the County Arms Hotel, Birr over the next week. On Tuesday September 25th the music will be provided by Liam O'Sullivan while on Wednesday September 26th dancing will be to Brendan Lee & Obsession.

Annual Ecumenical Harvest Thanksgiving
  Dunkerrin Church of Ireland Annual Ecumenical Harvest Thanksgiving Service will be held on Sunday September 30th at 7.30p.m.  Sister Mona Maher will give an interview on her work in Uganda with the Rev. Arthur Minion.  The collection on the night will go to Uganda Mission Fund.  All are welcome.

Pilgrimage To Knock
  The National Legion of Mary Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine takes place on Sunday 30th September. This is the last pilgrimage to Knock from this area for 2007. Booking early is essential with May Brussells (0505) 21422 or Mary McGee (086) 4055570.  Fare is €15, €7.50 for child under sixteen.  Bus leaves Roscrea at 9a.m. sharp via Sharavogue 9.10a.m. and Birr 9.20a.m.

Birr Travellers & Settled People's Group
  A meeting of Birr Travellers & Settled People's Group takes place on Thursday, 27th September at 8p.m. in the Methodist Hall, Emmet Street, Birr.  All are welcome.  

Book Club
  The next book club meeting will be held on Monday, 8th October.  The book for this month is 'The Gathering' by Anne Enright (chosen by Kate). New members welcome. Enquiries to (057) 9139028.

Garden Club
  Birr Garden Club will meet in Dooly's Hotel on Tuesday, 2nd October at 8p.m.  Guest speaker is Arthur Anders. New members welcome.

Bible Talks
  Bible talks are being held in Birr Resource Centre (Londis Carpark) every Sunday 7.30p.m.-8.30p.m. Meetings are free and non denominational. All are welcome.  

Four Seasons Gardening Club
  The next meeting takes place on Monday, 15th October at 8.30pm.  The venue is undecided, details next week. There is a Bring and Buy Sale, while Declan Costello will also give a talk on the night.
  There was no meeting in September as a mark of respect to our late PRO the late Jo Gath who passed away recently. Our sympathies are extended to the Gath family on their bereavement.  

Art - Not Just For Girls!
   Tin Jug Studio, Brendan Street, Birr: open Saturday afternoons, 2-5pm. Photography, prints, drawings for sale, for gifts, homes, offices. (Full proceeds of woodcarvings go to charity): High quality artworks of local, working artists, who have exhibited nationally and internationally are on display. Presently, featured artist Jackie Lynch, shows her superb photographs, woodblock prints and handmade paper. Next Saturday: drawing tuition for 10 - 12 year olds. Children's  art/craft classes, 'Kidzart' - for 6-9 year olds, begin Wednesday 24th October. Also art tuition for ladies and gentlemen - total beginners. Further info., please call Rosalind: 05791 21818 / 087 668 1783.

Missing Pink Bicycle
   A woman's pink mountain bicycle was stolen from a private premises in Birr recently. The owner, who uses the bike to keep fit, is also upset as it has sentimental attachment. Distinctive in colour, the Guards have been following a definite line of enquiry on the theft. They are making every effort to locate the bicycle, which was taken from a family home. The owner will be most grateful to anyone who has seen or knows the whereabouts of the bike, requesting that if spotted, to please bring it to the Garda Siochana office in Emmet Square. 

Kickboxing In Crinkle
   A reminder that the first session of kick-boxing for under 16' commences in the Handball Alley, Crinkle at 7.30 p.m. on Thursday.  A number of places remain for those not already booked.
 
Birr Town Soccer Lotto 
  Numbers drawn in the Birr Town lotto this week were 3, 5, 6,11, bonus 15. No winner of the €20,000 jackpot. Five people match 3 numbers. They were Helen Kenny c/o JK, Pauline Lynch Gaelic Bar, Johnny Mahon c/o Molloys, Ann Berry c/o Liam, Jimmy Winters Bulfin Park. All recieve €40 each. Next weeks draw is in the Swan. Thanks for your support. 

Marian Hall Notes
  Bingo; The jackpot on Friday night last was not won. The Jackpot this Friday night is €3000 on 48 calls with a top game of €300 if not won. Calling as usual is at 8.30pm sharp. 
  Progressive 25 Drive;  Top prize on Sunday night was won on 11 games by Tim Carey and Jack Kennedy. Second on 10 were Liam and Marguerite Shanahan. Two luck names winners were Michael and Dolores Ryan and Michael Carroll and Ray Horan. Last game went to Eugene and Peggy Martin while table prize winner were Jack Maher and Kieran Melaney. Raffle prize winners were Kieran Coughlan, Joe Cantwell and Coleman Loughnane. Cards continue on Sunday night with a jackpot of €100 on 14 games at 9pm sharp. 

Medical Herbalist 
  Emmett Walsh,  M.IIMH, M.NIMH, MSc (Herb Med), P.G.Dip (Herb Med),. B.Arg.Sc. (Hons) Clinic at Roscore, Blueball, Tullamore. Tel: 087 2613042 or 05793 55844 by appointment only. Clinic at O'Meara's Pharmacy, The Square Birr on Wednesdays. 

Cinderella
  In preparation for their forthcoming pantomine Cinderella, Birr Stage Guild is holding a workshop night this Thursday, 27th September at 8p.m. in County Arms Hotel. Come along and bring a friend!

Found
  Found in the Kilcormac area small dog, white with brown face and two brown spots on torso, female, contact (087) 9256112. 

Birr Social Club
  Teams Snooker Tournament in aid of Birr Voluntary Nursing Unit, (Sponsored by Buckleys Super-valu Main St. Birr)
  1st round draw as follows: Social Club v Sunrise Inn, Buckleys v Pilkingtons, Wilmer v S. Nevin, Buckleys v S. Fanneran, Pio Spillane v J. Ryan, J. Ryland v J. Hartnett, J. Feehan v Bank of Ireland, J. Dwyer v Grants, Tony Mac v Gardai, M. Whelehan v P. Dunphy, M. Nolan v Gardai, M. Parlon v Kennos, E. Sullivan v S. Whelehans, P. Mac v Sids, J. Reedy v J. Hickey, D. Kelly v Social Club 
 Golf Society Outing to Mountrath; Winner John Dwyer,. Runner-up John Carroll, 3rd Shamie Breen, 4th Tony mcCormack. In his speech Capt. Tony McCormack congratulated the winners, thanked all who travelled to make the outing an enjoyable day. He then announced the new Captain 07/08 John Carroll. 
  The committee and members wish to offer a vote of sympathy to the Cahill family on the recent death of their mother Mary and to the Pardy family on the recent death of their father Tom. 

Birr '66 Bridge Club 
  Bridge will resume on Monday 1st October at 7.45pm in County Arms Hotel. All members are requested to attend. New members welcome. 

Rosary Rally 
  Rosary Rally in St. Brendan's Church, Birr on Wednesday 3rd October at 7.30pm. followed by benediction and prayers for healing. Free rosaries and scapulars. All are welcome from inside and outside the parish. Organised by the Legion of Mary. 

O'Donoghue's Marathon Campaign
  The O'Donoghues continue their fundraising campaign for the forthcoming marathon. The next fundraising event is in Milnes Pub in Crinkle at 9pm this Saturday the 29th of September.

Birr Active Retirement Group
  Next meeting on Thursday 27th  at 7.30pm. Coffee evening in aid of hospice foundation on 27th also. All donations welcome.

Free Courses In VTOS Birr
  If you are over 21 and signed on for more than six months you can take a course free in VTOS Birr Outdoor Education Centre, Roscrea Road, Birr. Courses include: Introduction to Computers and the Internet; Basic Maths; English; and Art and Crafts. The new courses start in September. For more information call into the Outdoor Education Centre or phone 05791 21571 and ask for Mervyn Griffin.

Social Tea Dance
  There will be social dancing in Carrig Community Hall on Thursday September 27th  9.30-12.30. Music by Paddy Blanche.

Highfield Utd FC
  Numbers drawn in this week's Highfield United lotto draw were 9, 11, 12, 21. No jackpot winner. One match three winner receives €150 - Margaret Coughlan, 21 High St - seller Morgan Colohan. Next week's Jackpot €5,900.

Birr Mart
  Monday 24th September: Bullocks: 1 ch 525 €870, 1 sim 700 €1060, 3 ch 685 €1055, 1 ch 770 €1200, 1 ch 645 €920, 4 aa 488 €700, 3 lim 648 €1015, 2 ch 358 €645, 2 fr 693 €990, 2 her 423 €635. Heifers: 2 ch 558 €850, 3 ch 385 €580, 4 her 506 €720, 1 lim 580 €935, 2 bb 428 €650, 1 ch 610 €925, 2 ch 630 €965, 1 sim 490 €705, 1 ch 605 €950, 2 lim 355 €570, 2 her 433 €635, 1 lim 445 €685. Dry Cows: 1 her 785 €925, 1 sim 550 €695, 1 aa 710 €820. 
 Sheep Sale Thursday 20th September: Lambs: €25 to €33 over a kg. Cull Ewes: €42 to €55 per head. Breeding Ewes: €80 to €112  per head.  Please note sale of approximately 100 organic cattle at Birr Mart on Wednesday next 3rd October at 11.30am.

27/9/2007
Evening Of Poetry & Song With The Creagh Family

The Rhymes and Rhythms of the Creagh Family, an evening of poetry and song, will be held at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre on Friday September 28th at 8p.m.
  Michael Creagh is a past student of CCR (1971/76). His web site is rusticboy.com. His e-mail is merrymick@eircom.net. His Phone no. is (087) 9407573
 In 2003 having co-written Rathdowney Pantomime for 20 years with his friend Dr. Niall O’Doherty, Michael turned his hand to writing poetry. In December of that year he published his first book of 35 self-penned poems, The Rhymes of a Rustic Boy , to critical and popular success. In May this year Michael launched his follow up publication The Return of The Rustic Boy in Rathdowney library, that book is also selling well. His simple and relaxed delivery is very disarming. His easily accessible poetry touches on his life growing up in a small town, the people and places that he has known. His books can be bought on line at rusticboy.com
  Performances of The Creagh Family show, featuring Michael reading his poetry and the girls singing are as rare as hen’s teeth!The Creaghs may not be a household name but Michael says they are HUGE in  Rathdowney Co. Laois where they hail from! Michael will air many poems, from both of his books. His own quirky slant on subjects such as car-boot bargains and tooth decay, and horse nappies should also add a comic flavour to the evening.!
  Michael will be joined on stage by his sisters Ann on guitar, Margaret, Helen, their cousin Catherine on vocals and friends Vincent Crowley on keyboard and Vincent’s son Michael on bass guitar who will complement his poetry with some popular songs and close harmony singin.g The girls and the band cover many popular and well known songs. For two hours you will taken through many highs and lows of emotions as this group of musicians and poet do what they do best — Entertain! There are a limited number of tickets still available. Don’t say you weren’t told.
  BOOKING DETAILS: www.birrtheatre.com, Phone (057) 9122911.

 

27/9/2007
Birr Ease Into Semi-finals With Comfortable Victory Over Tullamore

Aidan Bracken Building Design Offaly SHC Quarter Final; Birr 1-19 Tullamore 0-10

Birr were rarely troubled as they coasted into the semi-finals of the Offaly Senior Hurling Championship with a 12 point victory over Tullamore in the quarter final at O'Connor Park, Tullamore on Sunday last. 
  It will be a different matter next Saturday when Birr return to O'Connor Park to take on Coolderry in the semi-finals in a repeat of the last three successive county finals.
  Birr were on top from the very start on Sunday building up an early lead and they rarely looked under threat after that. They were 1-4 to 0-0 in front after 10 minutes and that cushion was to stand to them for the remainder of the game. It could have been more as Brian Mullins, who scored the goal from a well struck penalty, had another penalty saved after 12 minutes.
  Tullamore managed to get the lead down to five points just once in the first half but Birr quickly extended it again. They were eight points up at the break, 1-10 to 0-5 and well in the driving seat at that stage.
 Tullamore's biggest threat came in that third quarter. They scored four points in a seven minute spell and got the lead down to six at one stage. A goal at that stage could have ignited their challenge and their best chance came from a 20m free after 12 minutes but Shane Dooley's effort was well saved by Niall Claffey. That was their last real chance as they only added one more point after that and Birr pulled away with a string of points in the final quarter.
  While Birr will be pleased to have won and advanced to the semi-finals there are still areas of their game that need to be improved. They hit nine wides in the second half alone on Sunday, giving them a total of 12 over the hour, and some slackness in defence did allow Tullamore to get back into the game early in the second half.
  Tullamore got hit early and it took them too long to settle into the game. Shane Kelly played his part with three well taken points in the first half but overall their return from play was poor. They managed five points from play and five from placed balls over the hour, which was never going to be enough to win this game.
  After their early pressure in the second half Tullamore faded out of the game after that. They only hit one point from play in the second half and had no wides, which was a further indication of how much their attack was struggling.
  The Birr attack fared much better hitting 15 points from play. Gary Hanniffy hit five points from play with Simon Whelahan hitting six points, three from play, and five of the six forwards got on the mark. They did hit some bad wides as well but a tally of 1-19 was their most productive afternoon of the championship thus far.
  Birr made changes to their line up for this game with Paul Cleary starting at centre half back with Niall Claffey in the full back position. Brian Whelahan and Rory Hanniffy were on the wings and Paul O'Meara came in at midfield. Neither Dylan Hayden or Neil Rogers from the named fifteen in the programme started but both came on as substitutes in the second half.
  Five members of the Tullamore starting fifteen also started the club's recent senior football semi-final victory and following this defeat they can no concentrate on their forthcoming football final meeting with Shamrocks.
  Brian Mullins netted the Birr goal from a penalty and did well otherwise also, keeping his net intact for the third time in four games. The defence overall did well with Niall Claffey doing well in an unaccustomed full back role while Paul Cleary and Rory Hanniffy also impressed.
  Barry Whelahan and Paul O'Meara gave Birr the edge in the middle of the field while in attack Gary Hanniffy and Simon Whelahan both played very well and were supported by Paul Molloy and Stephen Brown.
  Alan Gleeson did well in goals for Tullamore making a couple of great saves. Killian Bane, Diarmuid Herlihy and Nigel Mannion worked hard in their defence, James Keane had some good moments in midfield while in attack Shane Kelly had a good first half while Shane Dooley and Francis Kerrigan also tried hard.
  Birr made a good start and Gary Hanniffy had their opening point from 50m in the second minute. Less than a minute later he soloed clear to pop over the second. After four minutes Stephen Brown made a good run and passed to Sean Ryan, who was deemed to have been fouled and a penalty was awarded. Brian Mullins came forward and drilled the ball to the net.
  Birr continued to dominate the early exchanges and Stephen Brown added another point after a good run by Gary Hanniffy and then Paul Molloy gathered a clearance from Paul Cleary and raised another white flag, making it 1-4 to 0-0 after 10 minutes.
  Tullamore got their first point in the 11th minute after their first attack of substance when Shane Kelly pointed. Birr were awarded a second penalty in the 12th minute when a good move involving Brian Whelahan, Paul O'Meara, Paul Molloy and Michael Dwane ended with Dwane being upended by Alan Gleeson as he tried to go around him. Brian Mullins came forward again but this time his low shot was saved. 
  Tullamore cut the lead to five points after 14 minutes when Shane Dooley pointed a free but Birr edged further ahead again when Simon Whelahan pointed a 20m free and then Michael Dwane and Simon Whelehan slotted over good points from play. From the puck out Shaun Martin picked up the break and pointed for Tullamore but Simon Whelahan was on target from another Birr free.
  Shane Kelly won the puckout and pointed for Tullamore and after a sustained Tullamore attack was cleared by Birr, Shane Kelly added another point to cut the lead to six. However Birr finished the half well and Stephen Brown sent over a nice point and Simon Whelahan pointed a free after Rory Hanniffy was fouled as he raced forward and that left it 1-10 to 0-5 in favour of Birr at half time.
  Birr made a blistering start to the second half. From the throw in Stephen Brown raced away and closed in on goals but his shot was well saved by Alan Gleeson. The ball wasn't cleared and Sean Ryan had another shot but Gleeson did very well to get his hurley to it to turn it away to safety. Eventually Michael Dwane put the ball over the bar and all that with just 25 seconds on the clock.
  Shane Dooley pointed a 60m free and then added a '65' to give Tullamore some hope. Simon Whelahan collected a good clearance from John Paul O'Meara and pointed but then Stephen Brown and Gary Hanniffy hit two wides each in quick succession.
  When Francis Kerrigan had a goalbound effort turned over the crossbar by Brian Mullins and Shane Dooley added another '65' after nine minutes the gap was down to six and the crowd was beginning to get behind Tullamore, who sensed there could be a comeback.
  Gary Hanniffy replied with a Birr point after a good ball out from the left corner by Simon Whelahan and then Tullamore got their chance. A foul on Francis Kerrigan led to a 20m free. Shane Dooley went for goal but his effort was blocked by Niall Claffey and Birr cleared. That seemed to take some of the fight out of Tullamore.
  Simon Whelahan added another Birr point but Shane Dooley replied with a pointed free for Tullamore, but that proved to be their only score in the final 21 minutes of the game.
  Gary Hanniffy scored a good point from 60m out and then Paul Cleary pointed a free from midfield. Gary Hanniffy then took a good pass from Stephen Brown on the run and added another point and Paul Molloy was on target after good work by Michael Dwane. 
  The game was as good as over at that stage with Birr 11 points up with eight minutes left and the only score in the remaining minutes was a good point from Paul O'Meara. Birr were through to the semi-finals but will expect a much tougher test from Coolderry next Saturday.
  BIRR: Brian Mullins (1-0, penalty); John Paul O'Meara, Niall Claffey, Michael Verney; Brian Whelahan, Paul Cleary (0-1, free), Rory Hanniffy; Barry Whelahan, Paul O'Meara (0-1); Gary Hanniffy (0-5), Simon Whelahan (0-6, 0-3 frees), Stephen Brown (0-2); Sean Ryan, Michael Dwane (0-2), Paul Molloy (0-2). Subs. Dylan Hayden (for Sean Ryan, 44 mins), Neil Rogers (for John Paul O'Meara, 53 mins), Liam Power (for Paul Molloy, 56 mins).
  TULLAMORE: Alan Gleeson; Alan Martin, Killian Bane, Diarmuid Herlihy; Jody Duffy, Nigel Mannion, Mark Conlon; Stephen Egan, James Keane; Shaun Martin (0-1), Shane Dooley (0-5, 0-3 frees, 0-2 '65s'), Shane Kelly (0-3); Danny Ward, Francis Kerrigan (0-1), Gearoid O'Grady. Subs. Kevin Martin (for Danny Ward, 24 mins), Benny Dagg (for Alan Martin, half time), Edwin Finnerty (for Mark Conlon, 44 mins).
  REFEREE: Noel Flynn (Kilcormac/Killoughey).

27/9/2007
Recent Champions Meet To Decide Place In Final

For the last three years Birr and Coolderry have been the dominant forces in Offaly hurling. They have met in the last three county finals with Birr winning on two occasions and Coolderry winning the other.
  However their strangehold on the final will be broken this year as they have been drawn to meet each other in the semi-final on Saturday next at O'Connor Park, Tullamore, so only one of them will get to experience county final day in 2007.
  Last year it took two games to separate them in the final. Birr led for much of the first game but wasted countless chances and a late Coolderry fightback saw them snatch the lead late in the game before Birr grabbed a last second equaliser to send the game to a replay.
  They met again the following Saturday and again Birr let chances slip by. When Coolderry went four points clear in the final quarter they looked set for victory but Birr hit back with a goal and two points and had just a single point to spare at the final whistle.
  That was Birr's second victory in a row as they had won comfortably in 2005 but the previous year Coolderry ended their hopes of a six in a row with a famous win which earned them a record 27th county title.
  Now the sides come face to face again in a bid to get back to the final once more. Neither side has really sparkled thus far this year but come Saturday afternoon, there is no doubt but that they will be both fired up for what could be another great contest.
  Coolderry's fortunes have fluctuated a little bit this year. They have had some impressive performances but a couple of hiccoughs along the way as well. In their opening game they were given a stern test by Tullamore but in view of Tullamore's performances afterwards, that was probably a better result than it looked initially. Coolderry won that game by 1-13 to 0-8 back in early May but at the end of July they really turned on the style when demolishing Drumcullen by 2-26 to 0-7.
  That put them well on their way to the knock out stages but they suffered a setback the next day out when a late goal gave Kilcormac/Killoughey a two point victory, 2-9 to 0-13, Coolderry's first defeat in the group stages of the championship for a number of years.
  They bounced back from that to secure top place in the group with a 1-16 to 1-7 victory over Ballyskenagh and set up a quarter final meeting with Shamrocks.
  Coolderry were hot favourites going into that game but they didn't have it all their own way. Shamrocks played well in the first half and their efforts were rewarded as they led by 1-7 to 0-7 at half time. However two goals early in the second half turned the game in Coolderry's favour and they didn't relinquish their grip after that as they went on to win by 2-14 to 1-10.
  Birr started out with a straightforward victory over Kinnitty in early May by 3-12 to 0-8. They were very fortunate to win their second game at the end of July as they trailed Seir Kieran by three points five minutes from the end but scored five points without reply to snatch victory by 0-11 to 0-9.
  They had another narrow escape in their final group game when Shinrone severely tested them. Birr fell nine points behind early in the second half but again they dug deep and fought them way back into the game in the last 10 minutes to win by three points, 0-18 to 1-12.
  That victory sent them through to the quarter finals where they met Tullamore at O'Connor Park last Sunday. This time they were much quicker out of the blocks and were 1-4 to 0-0 up after 10 minutes. They were never really troubled after that. They led 1-10 to 0-5 at half time and while Tullamore got it down to six points early in the second half Birr pulled away at the finish to win by 1-19 to 0-10.
  Coolderry had to line out in the quarter final without Joe Brady and Damien Murray and they will be hoping that both players will be fit to resume on Sunday as they are vital cogs in the Coolderry machine. 
  In Shane O'Connor, they have a good netminder, who got an extended run with Offaly in the Allianz League this year. Full back Brendan O'Meara has been a stawart for Coolderry and has also featured on the Offaly panel for the last number of years. The Corcoran brothers Alan and Trevor flanked him in the quarter-final and they are good tight markers who make it difficult for any corner forward.
  If Joe Brady is fit he will return at centre back with his brother Kevin on one wing and John McLoughney on the other.  Kevin moved to the centre for the quarter final with James Masterson dropping back to wing back. If Joe returns it wil certainly strengthen the team but it is still a strong line in his absence. 
  His return would allow James Masterson resume at midfield where they have used a number of different players. Barry Teehan featured early in the season, as did Alan Corcoran, while Andrew Hall has come back in of late and done well. They have options in this sector which will enable them to battle for domination around the middle.
  The return of Damien Murray would certainly boost the attack while Cathal Parlon has also come back into the reckoning after a long term injury. He came on as a sub in the quarter final and scored a point and gives them a further boost in the forward line. Brian Carroll has been in good scoring form this year and scored 1-10 of 2-14 in the quarter final and is a vital member of their attack. Paddy Teehan, Martin Corcoran, Barry Larkin, Mark Bergin, Kevin Teehan, John Kirwan and Niall Kirwan have all figured in attack at some stage and will be in contention for places in the starting line up.
  Brian Mullins added to his talents last Sunday with a goal from a penalty for Birr and he has rarely let the side down. They altered their defensive line up last Sunday with Paul Cleary at centre back and Niall Claffey at full back. John Paul O'Meara and Michael Verney will man the corner positions. Brian Whelahan is preparing for his 20th Offaly Senior Hurling semi-final in succession, which is a great record, while Rory Hanniffy completed the defensive unit last Sunday but with Dylan Hayden and Neil Rogers challenging for starting places, it will be interesting to see what formation starts out the semi-final.
  Barry Whelahan and Paul O'Meara formed a good midfield partnership last Sunday but Neil Rogers could be a contender for this sector also.
  Birr have mainly used the same six forwards but have moved the around positionally over the games. Gary Hanniffy, Simon Whelahan and Stephen Brown contributed 0-13 from the half forward line last Sunday while inside they used Sean Ryan, Michael Dwane and Paul Molloy.
  This should be another close and hard fought game. Both sides are likely to up their performances on previous games and they are likely to bring out the best in each other. Coolderry will hope to have Joe Brady and Damien Murray back in their ranks as their absence would be a major blow to their chances. Birr showed their best form of the year last Sunday and looked to be coming right at the right time and if they maintain that form they could have the edge on Saturday.

27/9/2007
Good Victory For Birr Over Neighbours

Midland League: Birr 27  Roscrea 10

On Sunday last Birr took on local neighbours Roscrea looking to build on their 33-12 victory over Edenderry the previous week, and after a good game the black and greens prevailed.
  Coach Liam Hogan used this fixture again to blood new players with many regulars unavailable and they didn't disappoint. Early season matches are usually sprinkled with errors but Birr seemed to be starting strong with both forwards and backs combining well from the off.  
  After ten minutes the home side worked their way to Roscrea's 22 where Jeff Pardy burst through would-be tackles to pass to the onrushing Kieran Campbell to surge over the line from ten metres. The outstanding Ozzy O'Meara had a hard day from the kicking tee due to the blustery conditions.
  Both sides lent themselves to good play with defences doing well, until Birr got a lineout, fifteen metres out from the line. Good work from Dermot O'Shea saw Christy Hogan ignore the sidestep option to straighten the line, draw and pop to Cronan Kennedy for a deserved try in the corner.
  The visitors countered with two tries next, with a few missed few missed tackles not taking from well worked moves, again with missed conversions.
  Ronan Joyce showing and selling more sidesteps and shimmeys than Daft Dave, again conjured a try from no room to give Birr a 15-10 lead at the interval.
  On the resumption the standard was maintained with near misses and stout defence keeping it interesting for the large crowd in attendance. Ronan Joyce crossed again for another fine try converted by Ozzy O'Meara from an acute angle. Christy Hogan iced the cake after a clever lineout move by Jeff Pardy to leave the final scoreline Birr winning 27-10.
  Whilst Jeff Pardy, Mick Keogh, Ronan Joyce and Ozzy O'Meara were again prevalent, a special word must go to Jordan Culbert, who was outstanding at number eight, and to Ronnie Kirwin, Stephen Dooley and Shane Broderick who showed the future is bright green and black.  
  Birr: Joe O'Loughlin, Emmet Scully, Danny Troy, Andrew Lally, David Nyland, Ozzy O'Meara, Ronan Joyce, Christy Hogan, Jeff Pardy, Evan Williams, Kieran Campbell, Mick Keogh, Cronan Kennedy, Dermot Duffman, Jordan Culbert, P.J. Kavanagh, Ronnie Kirwin, Stephen Dooley, Shane Broderick.
  Training continues on Tuesday and Friday night at 7.30p.m., all new members welcome.  

Birr 31 Edenderry 19  
  The previous Sunday Birr started their first game of the season away to Edenderry in the Midland League and despite the early rustiness, a good away win was secured.
  Unfortunately for Birr, the home side got flowing quicker working to within ten metres of the visitors line, where Ozzy O'Meara's kick was deflected backwards and dived on by the jet heeled Edenderry outhalf, who missed the conversion.
  The Black and Greens responded well. Birr forwards moved up the field picking and driving past midfield. Edenderry were penalised at the breakdown, O'Meara duly punished from the 10m line.
  Birr scored two tries in the first half, the first a great counter attacking move from the backs with David Nyland taking a high kick in his own half, racing forward he released to O'Loughlin who took it into contact.  After that fast ball from the ruck and fast hands right across the field to winger Danny Troy who beat three players with power and pace from 20m to touch down. 
  The second try was from good forward play. Birr mauled to the line, Christy Hogan saw a gap and dived over. O'Meara who didn't miss all day added the extras leaving the score 5-17 at half time.
  Birr continued to apply the pressure in the second half. Ronan Joyce took fast ball from the line out on Edenderry's '22'. He weaved in and out through the defence and scored a super try under the posts.  Edenderry hit back ten minutes later wuth their second after some sloppy Birr tackling.
  Soon after Birr sealed victory with a quality try from replacement wing Danny Shortt. Fast ball from lineout to ruck was spun right across the backline to Shortt, whose first touch was a try. Edenderry got a late consolation try to leave the scoreline 19-31. Birr have much to improve on before taking on tougher opposition in the Leinster League, but a very positive start to the season.
Birr: Keith Scully, Danny Troy, Joe O'Loughlin, Andrew Lally, David Nyland, Kevin O'Meara, Ronan Joyce, Evan Williams, Christy Hogan, Marek Czukiewski, C. Campbell, Mick Keogh, C. Kennedy, D. O'Shea, C. Larkin, E. Scully, D. Shortt, R. Kirwan, E. Nyland, M. Kennedy, PJ Kavanagh.  

Sympathy
  Birr RFC would like to offer its deepest sympathy to the Pardy family on the recent death of Mr. Tom Pardy, High Street, Birr.  RIP.

27/9/2007
Golfing In The Glenns

Justin Kehoe Classic
  A large turnout of members and visitors turned up for the Classic to celebrate Justin’s participation in the British Open. Brendan Kehoe, Justin’s father, apologised for the absence of Justin at the presentation and explained that he had to leave early to attend practice sessions in London for this week’s competition. Brendan was most appreciative for all the help Justin received from the Club, thanking in particular all who played and who sponsored the Classic.
  Captain Billy Donlon recalled standing on the 1st at Carnoustie when Justin’s name was called out. It was one of the proudest moments of his life. He stated that Justin is a great ambassador for our Club and his professionalism and dedication serve as a model for all golfers both young and old. He wished him every success in the future. He then presented Brendan and his wife Carmel with the substantial proceeds of the Classic.
  Prizes were also presented to the winners of the Michael Loughnane Scramble. Michael Jnr. recalled how much The Glenns meant to his father. He loved the Club and all it stood for. Even when he was seriously ill he worked with Francie Horan to organise the Course Development Classic and encouraged his many friends to enter teams. Members were delighted to hear that the family intends to place a seat in Michael’s memory in the new lands. 
  After the presentations a reception was held to honour the winning Tudenham Cup team and their Manager Michael Yates. Well done to all on a splendid victory.
For Your Diary
  Wednesday 26th September; Ladies Stableford competition sponsored by Michael Horan Golf Shop.
  Thursday 27th September; 10.30a.m. Seniors. Please note golf outing to Portumna on Thursday 18th October. Tee time is 10.30a.m. 
  Saturday 29th September; Societies. Also Ladies Stableford Competition sponsored by Michael Horan Golf Shop.
  Sunday 30th September; Ladies Open day. Hamper sponsored by Paschal and Eleanor Campbell.
  Monday 1st October; Start of Turkey Competitions. 9-Hole Stableford. 1st Nine.
  Tuesday 2nd October; Open Stableford. Full catering facilities.
  Wednesday 3rd October; Final of the Glynn Trophy. (Ladies)
  Saturday 6th/Sunday 7th October; Men’s Open Weekend.
Ladies
  Ladies Conquer Cancer 9-Hole runs until Saturday the 9th of September. Two best cards to count 1-9 holes. 
  8 Hole-Stapleford Competition sponsored by Michael Horan (Golf Shop) on Saturday 22nd and Wednesday 26th. Draws Wednesday 10-2 p.m.
  Sunday September 30th; Ladies Open Day. Hamper sponsored by Paschal and Eleanor Campbell. Team of two.
Results
  Saturday/Sunday 22nd/23rd September: Justin Kehoe Classic; 1st Michael Stephens, Dick Johnston, Seamas Coakley, Colman Loughnane. 109 pts. Sponsor: Paul Barber, Jeweller.  2nd Joe Slevin, Paschal Troy, Frank Kearns, Denis Flynn. 104 pts. Sponsor: Co. Arms Hotel. 3rd Matt Ryan, Sean Ryan, Damien Ryan, Denis Carey (Roscrea) 103 pts.  Sponsor: Liam Butler, Pharmacy. 4th Ollie Nugent, Eugene Hennessy, Martin Flanagan, Sean Flanagan 103 pts Sponsor: Michael Horan Golf Shop. 5th Francie Horan, Noel Lowry, Mary Bolger, Leilagh Hogan  101 pts. Sponsor:Loughnane Concrete. 6th Brendan Hogan, Simon Hogan, John Dwyer, Christy McGarry 100 pts. Sponsor Men’s Committee. 7th Eric Byrne, David Byrne, Gay Claffey, Enda Claffey 100 pts. Sponsor: Ladies Committee. 8th Jerome Molloy, Sean de Cleir, Seamas Maloney, Declan Hennessy  99 pts. Sponsor: Birr Social Club. 9th Michael Coughlan, Brian Guinan, Roger Byrne, Tony McCormack 99 pts. 10th John Fleury, Brendan O’Carroll, Frank Kenny, Paddy Hogan 98 pts. Sponsor: Juvenile Committee.
  Thursday: Seniors; 1st Colman Loughnane, Cam Finnerty, Michael Langtry  41 nett.
  Presidents’ Mixed: 1st Sheila Brennan, Pat Molloy, Margo Regan. 2nd Roger Byrne, Noel Lowry, Ena Guilfoyle. 3rd Michael Stephens, Aileen Watkins, Jim Madden.
Course Development
  Members will have seen tremendous progress over the past few weeks. On the new lands the grassing has been very successful and it is hoped to have the new first fairway seeded within the week. The Management Committee apologises for all the inconvenience caused to members and visitors. Be assured that the end result will be worth waiting for. There certainly is an air of excitement around The Glenns.
Social Cards
Members are reminded that the final date for the use of the Social Cards is next Sunday 30th September. After that date all unspent monies revert to the Club.
Antara Junior Putting Challenge
  Congratulations to Cian Harte on winning the 9 to 11 Age Group Competition at the National Academy, Carton House. Certificates will be presented at the end of October to all the Juniors from the Club who took part in the competition. Members are glad to note the Birr member, Bernard Quigley is doing the 3-year Professional Training Course at the National Academy and he hopes that many young members of the Club will visit the Academy and avail of the excellent coaching facilities on offer.  Bernard, an outstanding young golfer, is wished every success in his chosen career.

27/9/2007
Birr U-14's Put Four Past Killcullen

National Cup Schoolboys U-14: Birr Town 4  Killcullen 0

Birr U-14 schoolboys had a good win in the National Cup at home to Killcullen from Naas on Saturday last.  Birr were short some key players for their first match of the year, but those who came in stepped up to the measure with good performances.
  Birr started well and after ten minutes took the lead when a long ball by right back Mark Nolan was controlled by Christopher Guilfoyle who crossed for Paul Franks to put Birr 1-0 up.
  Birr went two ahead when Paul Franks again converted from close range for the second goal. Captain Shane Kerins was running the show in midfield for Birr and Kilcullen were finding it hard to make chances. Dean Nagle in goals did well to tip a fifteen yard shot over the bar in the 25th minute to keep Birr 2-0 up and they led by that margin at half time.
  Birr resumed the second half and didn't let up on the pressure. Sean Brady, Stephen Lyons, Mark Nolan and Kevin Brummell were rock solid in defence, as well as helping in attack. Robert McKenna replaced Dean Nagle in goals and he also made two fine saves to keep Birr ahead.  
 Ten minutes into the second half Jack Feeney set up his midfield partner Shane Kerins to make it 3-0 and the game was over as a contest.  Birr made more changes, with Molloy, Sullivan and Michael Spain all coming on for a taste of the action.  
  Birr had the last say when Jack Feeney crossed from the left and Bryan Dooley, who came on at half time, scored with a deft header to make the final score 4-0. A nice way to start the season.  
  Up front Christopher Guilfoyle was involved in everything and led the line well.  Paul Franks, captain Shane Kerins and Jack Feeney worked very well together.  Birr's backline and the goalkeeper were the real difference between the sides, with centre half Sean Brady winning the man of the match award.
  Training is at 6.45p.m. on Thursday evenings, all welcome. There is a league game on Saturday versus Banagher Utd.  

20/9/2007
Birr Family Aiming For World Marathon Record

A Birr family is aiming to earn a place in the record books by completing the Dublin City Marathon on the October Bank Holiday Weekend and in the process raising funds and awareness of Down Syndrome.
  Fifteen members of the O'Donoghue family from Moorpark Street, Birr, are hoping to complete the marathon and thus break the current record of 12 siblings to complete a marathon. 
  The O'Donoghue family is made up of 15 brothers and sisters ranging in ages from 52-32 and if they complete the 26 plus miles around the streets of Dublin in Monday October 29th, they will justly earn their place in the Guinness Book of Records..
  They are doing the challenge for two reasons. Firstly to raise money and awareness for Down Syndrome. The reason they choose the charity is because it is near to their hearts. Young nephew Mark was born with Down Syndrome two years ago. While he is in great health at the moment, it hasn't always been easy as he has had lots of ups and downs to date. Down Syndrome need their support, money to train speech therapists is vital in the progress of these children.
  'Everyone needs a voice to be heard and right now we are these children's voices.  We want them to be able to be able to communicate with the world.'
  The second reason is an attempt to achieve a world record as the largest amount of siblings to complete a marathon.
  'This is a big undertaking as none of us has ever done anything like this before,' they said. 'We would really appreciate your help with our campaign for these children.'
'If you wish to contribute to our fund you can contact any of the family members or donate directly to: Bank of Ireland, Birr, Co. Offaly, Account Name - The O'Donoghues & The Little Owl Fund, Account No: 78329199, Sort Code: 90-16-77.  
The O'Donoghues are made up of: Willie, Kieran, Therese, Joe, Pa, Robert, Mary, Margaret, Noel, Adelaide, Jimbob, Brenda, Kevin, Louise, Cronan. 
  They are running a number of other fundraising events for the cause. Last Friday they held an event in Enright's where Mundy gave them his support.
  Next Sunday night, September 23rd they have another event in the Thatch, Crinkle
  They thank you for your contribution and support to this worthy cause.  

20/9/2007
Comhaltas Tour Group To Visit Birr 

The Birr branch of Comhaltas has selected to host a concert by the 'Echoes of Erin' group which is touring Ireland during second two weeks of October. The group will play in the Birr Theatre and Arts Centre on Thursday 25th October. It will feature a top class group of instrumentalists, singers, dancers and a storyteller in a colourful and exciting show. 
  Birr last hosted a tour concert in 2003 and it was very well received. Booking will open shortly at the theatre box office and tickets will also be available from Comhaltas branches throughout Offaly and surrounding counties. 

20/9/2007
Cigarettes Stolen From Birr Filling Station

A large quantity of cigarettes was stolen from a Birr Filling Station on Thursday night last between 1.30a.m. and 4a.m.
  The burglary occurred at Londis Top Shop on the Banagher Road and the alarm wires were cut and a rear door forced.
  The Gardaí believe two to three individuals were involved as a number of silhouettes were picked up on CCTV. They are asking anyone who saw anything to call (057) 91 20016.

20/9/2007
Birr News Digest

Birr Resource Centre
  Birr Resource Centre is a facility for Community and Voluntary groups we provide affordable meeting space for these groups. 
Also New Art classes with Judy Pearson are on a Tuesday afternoon and Kidz Kraftz will be starting again in October so watch this space for more details.
For more details plese phone Mary on (057) 9121912 office hours are 9.30-1.30 Monday to Friday

Rambles In Eireann
  Sunday 7th October. Clara. Meet at 2.00p.m. prompt at Fivealley or no later than 2.30 p.m. at Clara Church for a guided tour of the town led by Mary Fitzsimon. Contact Noel Queegan on 9133128 or Ben Oakley on 9122141 if a lift is needed or preferred. Visit: www.ramblesinririnn.org

Camcor Bridge Club
  Bridge will resume on Wednesday September 26th at 7.30p.m. in the County Arms Hotel, Birr. A committee meeting will be  held on Wednesday October 3rd at 7.15p.m.

Wilmer Tennis Club
  Congratulations to the Wilmer Tennis Club's Division 5 team which won the Midland League title in Nenagh recently by defeating Puckane. This is a great achievement for the team and well done to all involved in the success.
  The Division 4 team will be endeavouring to match their achievements on this Wednesday night when they take on Athlone in their final in Nenagh. Best of luck to the team and all support for them would be appreciated on the night.
  For those enjoying the social tennis nights there will be another night on this Friday night September 21st at 7.30p.m. Come along and enjoy a good night of tennis and fun.
  The annual John Joe Sheeran tournament will be held on Friday October 5th. Anyone interested in playing can put their name on the sheet on the clubhouse noticeboard.
  Deepest sympathy is extended to the Barber family and to the Pardy family on their bereavements over the last week.

Mobile Phone Lost
  Lost in Rath GAA pitch at Birr/Kilcormac Under 14 match on Thursday evening, a black mobile phone belonging to a child. If found could you please ring (087) 2283772.

Massive Sale Now On
  Greg Smith Menswear, Green Street, Birr, massive sale now on. All summer stock, suits, jackets, chinos, shirts, polos, Kartel, Remus, Magee, Andre, Traffic and many more (advert).

Gala Fundraising Concert
  'Rolling back the years' - Clonlisk National School celebration concert featuring past and present pupils in the Community Centre, Shinrone on Saturday October 6th at 8.30p.m. Admission adults €10, children €5. Book early to avoid disappointment. Tickets are available from Clonlisk NS (0505) 47421, Byrne's Shop, Dunkerrin, Mary at (087) 7461134 or Anne at (087) 2886265.

Cookery Demonstration by Darina Allen
  Darina Allen, Ballymaloe Cookery School will host a cookery demonstration on 11th October in the Shannon Oaks Hotel.  Tickets cost €30 each which includes a Cheese & Wine Reception and a chance to win an overnight Spa Break in the “Temple Country Retreat & Spa”, Moate. Tickets are on sale from Na Calai CDP (090) 9741887, Susan Royston (086) 2051346 and locally from Jonathan Haslam and Jillian Dagg, Brambles. All proceeds in aid of “SIGN OUT” Youth Café Project, Na Calai CDP, Portumna. 

Community Support For Older People
  Applications are now invited from Community and Voluntary Groups for funding under the 2007 Scheme  of Community Support for Older People. This scheme aims to improve the security and social support of vulnerable older people in their homes by providing grants for :
  Window locks; door locks and door chains designed to strengthen points of entry to the dwelling; security lighting;  the once off cost of installing socially monitored alarm systems; smoke alarms.
  Voluntary or Community based Organisations working with or providing support for older people can apply to participate under this scheme. Birr Neighbourhood Watch have received funding in previous years under similar schemes and intend to apply again this year.
  Persons living within Birr Urban District wishing to avail of such assistance should apply as soon as possible, stating their requirements and supplying such information as is required by the Department.  It should be noted that the lower age limit for applicants is 65 years of age.  Those with younger people residing in the premises do not qualify.
  Applications to:-  Michael Hough Tel.  (087) 6870713; Rosaleen Harding Tel  (087) 642 7506; Dympna Mackintosh  (057) 91 22274

Neighbourhood Watch
  Members of Birr Neighbourhood Watch, please note a meeting is arranged for Wednesday19th September at 8p.m. in Dooly's hotel.  New members are very welcome to come along.

St Brendan's Environmental Group
  St Brendan's Environmental Group has been the umbrella organisation for the FAS Community empoloyment Scheme in the Birr area for the past 15 years. The group includes many of the sporting, charitable and community bodies in the area. A new programme of work will start in October and a number of participants are required. Applications in writing to G. Sammon, Secretary, 7 Seffin Avenue, Birr.

Birr Swimming Pool
  Children's lessons started on Saturday at 10a.m. and 11a.m. Booking essential. Children's lessons starting Tuesday/Thursday at 5p.m., booking essential. 
  Adult lessons continuing, again booking essential.
  The Swim Club starts back on Tuesday at 6p.m. and they are delighted to have M.J. Grogan as Coach once again.
  Aquafit continuing Monday/Wednesday at 9.30p.m., Tuesday/Thursday at 7p.m. and Friday morning at 11a.m.
  The Gym schedule is as follows: Monday/Wednesday Spin Class 1p.m. and 8p.m. each day. Body conditioning, Tuesday/Thurdsay 8p.m. Dynamic Dance Friday 12-12.45p.m. All of the above take place in the new air-conditioned Class Studio. Places limited to 10 people per class.
  The Winter timetable is now available at reception or on their website at www.birrleisurecentre.ie or on (057) 9120343.

GROW
  A Grow Group meets each week in Birr. If you are someone who experienced depression or anxiety attacks or who is simply in need of company do come along. You will have an opportunity to meet others, share your problems in confidence, get support and make new friends. All are welcome. No fees. Meetings take place in the Community Health Centre, The Convent, Wilmer Road, Birr at 7.30p.m. every Tuesday. For further information please contact Ruairi on (087) 2510965 or (057) 9351124.
  Website:www.grow.ie  Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Dochas
  The Offaly Cancer Support Group is based at Teach Dóchas, Offaly St., Tullamore. They offer support to people living with cancer and their families and carers. Opening hours: Monday to Friday 10a.m to 2p.m. Telephone 05793 28268 email: dochasoffaly@eircom.net. 

Farmers Vegetable Market
  Farmers Vegetable Market will be in the Marian Hall Car Park every Saturday between 10a.m.-5p.m. (Advert)

Social Dancing
  There will be two nights of social dancing in the County Arms Hotel, Birr next week. On Tuesday September 25th the music will be provided by Liam O'Sullivan while on Wednesday September 26th dancing will be to Brendan Lee & Obsession.

Reminder
 Enrolment for kick-boxing and badminton classes takes places on Wednesday 19th September at 7.30 p.m. at Crinkle Ball-alley. Open to children from 10 to 16 years.  Adults also needed to supervise even one hour per month will be welcome. Crinkle Sport & Recreation centre is working to provide recreational opportunities for our youth. Support them by your active involvement.

Annual Ecumenical Harvest Thanksgiving
  Dunkerrin Church of Ireland Annual Ecumenical Harvest Thanksgiving Service will be held on Sunday September 30th at 7.30p.m.  Sister Mona Maher will give an interview on her work in Uganda with the Rev. Arthur Minion.  The collection on the night will go to Uganda Mission Fund.  All are welcome.

Pilgrimage To Knock
  The National Legion of Mary Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine takes place on Sunday 30th September. This is the last pilgrimage to Knock from this area for 2007. Booking early is essential with May Brussells (0505) 21422 or Mary McGee (086) 4055570.  Fare is €15, €7.50 for child under sixteen.  Bus leaves Roscrea at 9a.m. sharp via Sharavogue 9.10a.m. and Birr 9.20a.m.

Birr Travellers & Settled People's Group
  A meeting of Birr Travellers & Settled People's Group takes place on Thursday, 27th September at 8p.m. in the Methodist Hall, Emmet Street, Birr.  All are welcome.  

Birr Chocolate Saturday
  Tin Jug Studio - Saturday 22nd September,  3p.m. to 4.30p.m.: "Chocolate Saturday" - an afternoon of creativity for children. Adults are welcome too. Fee €15 including refreshments and chocolate treats. Bookings - tel: (087) 6681783.

Book Club
  The next book club meeting will be held on Monday, 8th October.  The book for this month is 'The Gathering' by Anne Enright (chosen by Kate). New members welcome. Enquiries to (057) 9139028.

Marian Hall Notes
  Bingo; The jackpot on Friday night last was not won. The jackpot this Friday night is €3,000 on 48 calls with a top game of €300 if not won. Calling starts at 8.30pm sharp.
  Progressive 25; Top prize on Sunday night was shared on 11 games by Michael Gaffney and Jimmy Dolan, Michael Carroll and Ramie Horan.  One pair had ten games Kieran Daly and Elsie O'Halloran.  The table prize was won by Alex and Tom Kennedy, while Michael Hogan were the last game winners. Raffle prizes went to Tom Carroll, Kieran Coughlan and Jimmy Byrne.  Cards continue on Sunday night at 9pm sharp.  

Birr Town Soccer Lotto
  Numbers drawn in the Birr Town lotto this week were 6, 12, 25, 26, bonus 20.  No winner, one person matched three numbers Seamie Brien, Presentation Place who wins €200. Prizemoney stands at €2,000 including bonus. Next week's draw is in the Market Tavern.  Make sure and have your ticket.

Training Schedule For Birr Town Underage Teams
Mondays U-10 Boys 6p.m.-7p.m.; U-12 Girls 7p.m.-8p.m.; U-11 Boys 8p.m.-9p.m.
Tuesday - 6.30p.m.-7.30p.m. U-13 Girls.
Wednesday - U-9 Boys - 5p.m.-6p.m.; U-12 Boys 6p.m.-8p.m.
Thursday U-8 Boys 5p.m.-6p.m.; U-10 Boys 6p.m.-7p.m.

Highfield Utd Lotto Draw
  Numbers drawn in this week's Highfield United lotto draw were 6, 12, 17, 22.  No jackpot winner and two match three winners receive €75 each, Sheamy and Gary, c/o Willie McKenna, Michelle Cotter, c/o seller. Next week's draw is in Whelahan's for a jackpot of €5,750.

Down Syndrome Fundraiser  
  The O'Donoghues & The Little Owl Fund continue their fundraising campaign this Sunday night, September 23rd in the Thatch, Crinkle in aid of Down Syndrome. Please support.  

Cinderella
  Don't forget the information evening at which details of Birr Stage Guild's 50th Anniversary production of the Pantomine Cinderella will be given.  Do come to the County Arms Hotel on Monday, September 24th at 8p.m. and bring a friend. You will be made feel very welcome.  

Auction
  Auction of Office furniture at the Community Centre, Kinnitty on Saturday, 22nd September at 4pm.  Chairs, Desks, Lockers, Filing Cabinets in perfect condition.  Viewing from 2p.m., no reserve everything to clear. Contact Ivan Sheppard (086) 4082118.  

Clareen ICA
  The next meeting of Clareen ICA Guild will be on Monday, 24th September at 8.30p.m. There will be a discussion on the forthcoming ploughing match and other items.  

Birr Mart
  Bullocks; LIM 805, €1,190; 3 LIM 720, €1,090; HER 345, €580; SIM 540, €855; 2 SIM 558, €840; LIM 495, €780; SIM 755, €1,145; CH 545, €870; SIM 605, €955; 3 LIM 388, €680; 4 HER 481, €705; CH 755, €1,135.
Heifers; CH 535, €770; 4 CH 463, €725; 320, €590; SIM 365, €600; 2 BB 408, €660; SIM 390, €640; 2 LIM 390, €595; SIM 405, €630; 3 LIM 375, €655; CH 390, €660; BB 690, €1,045; LIM 585, €885.
Dry Cows; CH 500, €465; FR 600, €500; AA 670, €900; FR 585, €485.
Sheep Sale;  Sale on Thursday, 13th September.Lambs: €40 to €60 over a kg. Cull Ewes: €40 to €52 per head.Breeding Ewes: €97 to €106 per head.

Free Courses In VTOS Birr
  If you are over 21 and signed on for more than six months you can take a course free in VTOS Birr, Outdoor Education Centre, Roscrea Road, Birr.  Courses include: Introduction to Computers and the Internet; Basic Maths; English; Art and Crafts.  The new courses start in September.  For more information call into the Outdoor Education Centre or phone (057) 91 21571 and ask for Mervyn Griffin.

Irish Epilepsy Association
  The Annual Church gate collection in aid of the Irish Epilepsy Association will take place next weekend, 22nd and 23rd September. Please give generously.

Garden Club
  Birr Garden Club will meet in Dooly's Hotel on Tuesday, 2nd October at 8p.m.  Guest speaker is Arthur Anders. New members welcome.

Bible Talks
  Bible talks are being held in Birr Resource Centre (Londis Carpark) every Sunday 7.30p.m.-8.30p.m. Meetings are free and non denominational. All are welcome.  

Ballyeighan Gardening Club 
  The Gardening Club would like to extend a very big thank you to Angela Jupe, Garden Designer on her wonderful presentation last Wednesday night.
  A large attendance of over thirty members enjoyed her slides on designs of formal gardens in the Midlands, as well as exotic places like Japan as well as Berlin and the UK.  Her knowledge and expertise on using vibrant colours when planting her gardens is second to none. A lovely evening concluded with a raffle, a cup of tea and a chat. New members always welcome. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of every month. Next get together is on the 10th October.  

20/9/2007
Birr Woman To Undertake Charity Walk In Mexico

  Birr woman Catherine Walsh is to undertake a walk in aid of Cystic Fibrosis to Mexico shortly. She flies out to Mexico on the 29th September next and returns on 9th October.  
  Catherine's daughter Natalie was going to go on the trip but she is unable to, so she will be joined by her sister Patricia Brussells. She will do a walk of a 100 miles while visiting different areas of the country. 
  Catherine extends her grateful thanks to all the people who helped out her family, her friends, the various sponsors who all helped out to fund the project.  She said the help she got is much appreciated which will make it possible to raise money for research for a cure for Cystic Fibrosis. 
  Cystic Fibrosis (also called mucoviscidosis) is Ireland's most common life-threatening inherited disease.  Approximately 1 in 19 people are carriers of the CF gene and where two carriers parent a child together, there is a 1 in 4 chance of the baby being born with the disease.
  CF affects the glands, damaging many organs including the lungs, the pancreas, the digestive tract and reproductive system.  It causes a thick sticky mucus to be produced, blocking the bronchial tubes and preventing the body's natural enzymes from digesting food.
  All funds raised on the walk go to the Cystic Fibrosis Association of Ireland which is a voluntary, non-profitable, charitable organisation. It was set up in 1963 to increase knowledge and awareness of CF and to give advice and support to people with it and their families.
  The Association is also funding five research projects which are helping in the vital search for a greater understanding of Cystic Fibrosis with the main aim being to find a cure.
  The areas in Mexico she will visit include Chichen Itza, Merida, Playa Del Carmen.  Chicen Itza is found in the heart of the Yukatan Peninsula in Mexico and is surrounded on all sides by a vast rain forest.  It is a ruined ancient city taking up an area of about four square miles, which was first populated around the sixth century AD by the Mayans.  They were famed for their advanced mathematical knowledge and understanding of the solar system.
  Merida is a city of one million people. It is a wonderful mixture of a colonial city and a cosmopolitan destination. With Merida as a base, one can visit cathedrals and churches, Mayan ruins, museums, haciendas and cenotes.
  Playa del Carmen is a living vibrant part of the Maya world (Mundo Maya).  It is located on the beautiful Mexicana Caribbean coast some forty miles south of Cancun, where one can explore sites along the Cancun.
  Catherine arrives in Cancun on Saturday, 29th September. On Sunday she will do a walk in Chichen Itza and on Monday, 1st October will visit Cuzama Cenotes and walk. She will undertake walks during the next three days in Uxmal and Kabah for walks and onto Celestun on the 3rd October. The next day Thursday she transfers to see the Franciscans convent route (villages of Mani, Oxcuttzcab) with a walk.  The final few days of the trip finishes with activities and walks before her return home.  




  
  

20/9/2007
History On Leinster Regiment Now At Birr Library

As part of the ongoing Birr Library lecture series an informative and historical talk was presented last Friday by local historian, Sean Cooke, on the history of the Leinster Regiment whose head-quarters and barracks were located at Crinkill, Birr. 
  The launch of a special collection of Books and Media relating to the Leinster Regiment was also presented by Librarian, Ann Coughlan, giving invaluable research facilities to both the inquisitive historian and visitor alike. 
  Speaking to mark the occasion, Offaly County Council Chairperson, Mr Eamon Dooley commented that the landscape of Birr and its monuments are a constant reminder of the past and previous generations. 'We are far more conscious of these monuments today than we were in the past when we used to take such old buildings for granted almost.' 
  Cllr Dooley pointed out that there is hardly a person he knows of living in Ireland that doesn't have a relative, even if distant, who fought in the First World War. 'Families whose relatives fought in the Great War will find here in Birr Library an excellent and growing database of information concerning the history and background of the Leinster Regiment.' 
  Birr Town Chairperson Cllr Michael Loughnane complimented Birr Library's staff under the leadership of Ann Coughlan. 'We have a rich diversity in this area that has true tourist potential; from the Old Union Workhouse and other such various buildings of architectural heritage in the area.' Cllr Loughnane further complimented Sean Cooke who he stated had always shown a keen interest in his community from Tidy Towns to his keen interest in the history of the Leinster Regiment.
  A few words were spoken on the occasion by Major General, Michael McGoona of the Leinster Regiment Association concerning the commencement of the Association. 'I came to the Leinster Regiment Association through the fact that my father and two brothers were in the Leinster Regiment in World War I.'
  Initially the Leinster Regiment Association was started in England by people who had relatives in the Leinster Regiment. 'I was quite determined to bring the Association back home to Ireland - England was no place to have hosted it but it was a great place to support it. I think we really have achieved our goal in bringing the Leinster Regiment and its history back home to Birr. I am delighted on behalf of the Leinster Regiment Association to have placed its archives, documents and memoirs in the capable hands of Birr Library.'
  Now on display at the Library from the National Archives are the war diaries of the soldiers and officers from the 1914-1918 period offering an incredible insight into horrors of life on the killing fields that were Flanders, Somme and Yprés, 'Now anyone can have the opportunity to read the hopes, fears and the terrifying and inhuman traumas that these soldiers underwent.'
  As Maj Gen Michael McGoona added, ' We really are immensely grateful for the opportunity to preserve the noble memory of these people who served in the Regiment. There is now a place where people can come to find out about their relatives who fell in battlefields of France and the Great War or who lived and fought at some point in the Regiment's long history.'
  After the speeches people moved to St. Brendan's Church where a few words were spoken by Very Rev. Tony Cahir and Brian Kennedy regarding the commemorative stain glass window erected in memory of those soldiers of the Leinster Regiment in 1964. Lord Rosse provided some water from St. Brendan's well which was blessed Fr Cahir.
  Librarian Ann Coughlan thanked Mr Dunne (Roscrea) who kindly donated several original artefacts concerning the Leinster Regiment to the Library, including a 1st edition copy of the history of the Leinsters, fragments of uniforms, insignia and badges worn by the men. 
  Sean Cooke gave an enlightening talk starting with Birr Barracks which were built in 1803-1813 by Mr Bernard Mullins. This was the same man who also built Templemore barracks, Crinkill house, Ballyegan house and all the railway stations in Ireland. As Sean observed the barracks had accommodation for 1,400 men and up to 60 officers. It had two barrack squares, and it could hold two regiments which at times it did. There was a hospital, school, two married quarters, an NCOs mess, a junior mess, a corporal's mess and a wet and dry canteen within the walls plus stables for 30 horses, latrines, a wash house and a large armoury.
  In a series of photo-slides of the barracks taken from the time period, Mr Cooke pointed out an interesting piece that 'miraculously' survived the burning down of the barracks in 1922. He commented that the fine piano once played at functions and reception in  the officer's mess, which was one of the few main entertainments of the day, did in fact survive and worked its way into private household collection. 
  The last of the buildings were demolished over 20 years ago, however, as Mr Cooke noted the magnificient clock tower was taken out and has now become the landmark and bell-tower for a Cistercian monastery in Australia.
  Mr Cooke highlighted the military cemetery beside the barracks that is still there today and is maintained by the local tidy villages. Mr Cooke commented that it was historically reported throughout the Regiment's existence in Birr that the local people got on very well with the soldiers. Mr Cooke added, 'the Brosna and the Camcor afforded great fishing and the bogs and Slieve Blooms were ideal for game shooting. It was a wonderful posting for any soldier and all regretted leaving it. It was called the healthiest barracks in the kingdom.'
  Mr Cooke also gave some insight into life in the Barracks in Birr as it must have been at the earlier part of the 20th century, 'Soldiers had to wear uniforms at all times in and out of barracks and they also had to have a pass to get in and out. Curfew time was 10pm but I am sure knowing soldiers if their mates were on the gate they would be able to get in at any time. 
  In 1842 a soldier named, George Jooby shot Captain Mackey of the 42nd regt. as he claimed that he was cruel to his men. He was hanged in Tullamore. Mr Cooke noted on this point that the barracks had a guardroom and a jail with 30 cells. 
  The 1st Battalion of the Prince of Wales Leinster Regiment (100th foot) was formed in 1760 and the 2nd Battalion (109th foot) in 1761. The first battalion largely saw posting and action in India where the first of five Victorian crosses won by the Regiment was achieved. The Victorian cross is the highest distinction and award for bravery and valour in battle to be awarded to members of the British armed forces. A large proportion of these awards were won by Irish regiments, particularly in the First World War.
  One these VCs was awarded in action to a Private F. Whirlpool during the Regiment's operations to suppress the famous Indian Mutiny in central india. The citation read that a Private Whirlpool rescued a number of men under heavy enemy fire, including a Lieut. Dunne, during the regiments attack in April 1858 on Jhansi. To give an idea of the levels of courage involved it was reported that Mr Whirlpool had received 17 separate sabre and gunshot wounds, including one that nearly severed his head from his body. Though he survived with these shocking injuries he remained invalided for the remainder of his life. 
  Four soldiers of the 2nd battlion were awarded the Victoria Cross during the 'Great War.' Corporal John Cunningham from Co. Tipperary, for conspicuous bravery on 12th April 1917 at Bois-En-Hach, France. Sadly he died from his wounds on 16th of April.
  Two men were awarded the Victoria Cross at the last battle of Yprés. One to Private M. Moffat from Sligo on 14th October 1918 near Ledeghem, Belgium. Private Moffatt was advancing with five others across the open terrain when they suddenly came under heavy rifle fire at close range from a strongly held house. Moffatt threw bombs (grenades) and then, working to the back of the house, rushed the door, killing two and capturing 30 of the enemy. 
  Another VC was awarded to Sergeant John. O'Neill, who was also awarded the Military medal for bravery on the assault of 'Hill 63'. Sgt. O'Neill won the Victoria Cross on the same day as Pte Moffatt. On 14th Oct. 1918 near Moorseele (France),  Sgt. O'Neill at the head of 11 men charged a battery of two field machine guns through a heavy enemy battery firing down and around him. He captured four field guns, two machine guns, and 16 prisoners. A few days later, with one other man, he rushed an enemy machine gun position, routing about 100 enemy and causing many casualties. It was reported that he displayed, 'the most remarkable courage and powers of leadership.'
  Earlier in the war Lt John Vincent Holland, 3rd Bn, who came from Co. Kildare, was also awarded the Victorian Cross for most conspicuous bravery at Guillemont, France, on 3rd September 1916. Both his brothers fought in with the Leinster Regiment in the disastrous engagement by Allied forces at Dardenelles (Gallipoli) one was killed and another wounded. 
  Overall men from the Leinster regiment had served gallantly at Flanders, the Somme, Ypres, Dardenelles (Galipoli). They had fought in the America wars in 1814. The 1st battalion in America were reduced to as little as 400 men, yet nonetheleses they thwarted an American force numbering some 6,000. Such was the tenacity of these 400, that following the battle it was reported that, 'it was impossible for men to have done more...with greater courage.' 
  The Leinster had fought throughout the Indian mutiny in the 1858 and took part in some four years of campaigning against Hyder Ali and TIppo Dahib. To give some idea of the scale of involvement, during this period the 1st battalion lost 1,230 members. 
  In 1887 the 1st battalion was in South Africa during the Boer War, being part of the 8th Division led by Sir Leslie Rundle, alongside the 2nd battalion Grenadier Guards.
  During the First World War the 1st battalion had also been transferred to the Middle theatre of war in 1915. They were in Egypt in 1917 and Palestine towards the end of 1918. 
  Both battalions made their last journey home for disbandment in 1922 at Birr Barracks. The founder members of the Leinster Regiment Association are its secretary David Ball, Major Jim McCloud (also chairman of the combined Irish regiments association) and Vincent McGought (former chairman of the Leinster Association). 
  Further information regarding the Leinster Regiment can be viewed at Birr Library, in particular, Mr Cooke recommended people to view the diary accounts of the regiment at Flanders, France.   

20/9/2007
St. Brendan's Park Development Night At The Dogs In Mullingar

As you may be aware Birr GAA Club have undertaken a massive development of upgrading the playing surface. This work entails the installation of drainage piping and stone chippings throughout the ground, re-levelling the existing surface to a high level using existing and imported topsoil, sanding of top layer of playing surface, finishing designated area to a very high level with appropriate slopes, laying of pipes for flood lighting and reseeding designated area with sports field mix.
  In addition they are installing state of the art floodlighting specifically designed to facilitate hurling matches and TV cameras for high profile National League Games.
  As you will appreciate the cost of carrying out these works is considerable and could not be undertaken without funding from the National Lottery.
  However, as with most major projects they will require to fundraise a percentage of the overall cost themselves and one of the projects will be a Night at the Dogs in Mullingar Greyhound Track on Saturday, 13th October.
  This is considered to be a huge night's entertainment where friends, colleagues, wives and girlfriends can wine and dine over a four course meal while they consider a 'punt' on the next race taking place below on the floodlit track.
  Over the next couple of weeks members of the development committee will be calling on you to play your part in what promises to be a 'Night To Remember.'
  So if you wish to be associated with this venture by sponsoring a race, taking an advert or purchasing a buster ticket contact John Ryan (087) 9786210, Mary Bolger (087) 9354456, Dermot Horan (087) 6887076, Gary Cahill (086) 3702960, Gerry Sammon (086) 6071429, or any member of their executive - your generosity will ensure the success of this much needed facility to assist in the promotion of sport in our county.  

20/9/2007
Birr Community Games

Swimming
  Congratulations to Padraig Connolly who represented Offaly in the National finals held recently in the National Aquatic Centre.  Padraig swam in the U-16 backstroke competition and reached the semi-final.  Well done.
Art & Model Making
  Congratulations to all the competitors who represented Offaly in Mosney recently.  This was a great achievement for them all to reach this level.  Well done to Laura Sampson (Girls U-8 Art), Roisin Burns (Girls U-16 Art), Conor Sampson (Boys U-10 Art), Ciaran Cooney (Boys U-12 Art), Stephen Lyons (Boys U-10 Art), Orla Plunkett (Girls U-10 Model Making), Katie Harding (Girls U-12 Model Making), Jessica Spain (Girls U-14 Model Making).  Thanks to Alan Hoare and to all their parents who helped out on the day.
Athletics 
  Congratulations to all the children who competed in Mosney recently. The standard was very high this year, but everyone gave it their all.  Well done to Rachel Daly (Girls U-8 60m), Clodagh Hanniffy (Girls U-10 Hurdles), Ronan Murphy (Boys U-12 600m), Shannon Quegan, Zoe Field, Kirsty Patel, Bronagh Rigney and Jasmine Patel (Girls U-14 Relay). Also to Ronan Murphy, Barry Hehir, Niall Dolphin-Murray and Peter Corbett (Boys U-12 Relay).  Thanks to all the parents who helped out on the day and to Margaret Irwin, Catherine Barry and Josephine Rigney.  

20/9/2007
Birr Irish Music Classes 

Classes in traditional Irish instrumental music will recommence in Birr later this month. An information and enrolment night will take place in the Marian hall on Monday next 24th September at 8pm (Sharp) at which details of the facilities available will be announced. Existing students should attend with a parent or other adult as well as new pupils. 
  These classes are being arranged by the Birr Branch of Comhaltas and provide an opportunity for young people of the area to learn a skill in playing a musical instrument. An indication of the popularity of Irish music amongst the youth of the country was the huge number of young people who took part in the recent All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in Tullamore. 
  It is hoped that these classes will be full availed of in the Birr area. Further information from branch secretary, Donal Morrissey at (087) 9347968. 

20/9/2007
Birr Scouts Annual Camp

A meeting of all Cubs, Scouts and Venturers was held in the Scout Hall, Birr recently.  Adults who are prepared to help are most welcome as every year they have to limit the membership due to shortage of leaders. The minimum age for cubs is seven years and for scouts is 11 years.
  The group joined the Slieve Bloom region for their Annual camp at Crawfordsburn, Co Down in July and all went well as they were fortunate in getting fine weather during their stay in Northern Ireland.  The programme activities included Archery, Abseiling, Rafting, Ice Skating, Grass Sledging Caving and Bowling with trips to the Giant's Causeway and Belfast, which included Stormont.
  The leaders wish to express their sincere thanks to the parents committee for their fundraising during the year to finance their programme and last but by no means least the people of Birr for their support.  Scouting and friendship unlocks the pathway to peace and meeting their fellow scouts in Northern Ireland will help to create a better Ireland.  

27/7/2007
Vibrant Vintage Week Promised For 39th Birr Festival

The launch of the 39th Annual Birr Vintage and Arts Festival, one of the longest running and most successful festivals in the country, took place last Friday evening at the new dining area in the County Arms Hotel. 
  Vintage costumes were worn by a number of people setting the scene and adding a vintage ambience to the launch. Some light refreshments and musical entertainment was provided to mark the occasion interspersed with marvellous displays of agility and dexterity from fire jugglers, clowns and entertainers on stilts.
  From Friday 10th to Friday 17th of August the town of Birr will welcome local and visitors, old friends and new to enjoy the historic atmosphere of this beautiful Georgian Heritage town and to celebrate its contemporary culture through an all-inclusive programme of vintage and modern events for the whole community. 
  Chairperson of the Vintage Week Festival Committee, Michelle De Forge, stated that with annual favourites and new events, vintage flavour and modern entertainment throughout, the 39th Annual Birr Vintage Week & Arts Festival promises to be an exciting and vibrant festival celebrating Birr's remarkable heritage and culture, inspiring participation and enjoyment in everyone who makes the effort to come out and sample the events. 
  Launching the Festival for the third time as Vintage Week Chairperson was Michelle de Forge who highlighted some of the attractions, events and treats in store this year. 
  She commented that in accordance with tradition the opening weekend will see the Olde Time Fair Day taking place in the Courtyard of Birr Castle offering a range of curios, bric-a-brac, flowers, books, food and medieval arts and crafts. There will be a Children's Vintage Costume Competition, Lunchtime Concert by Birr Stage Guild and both Cricket and Croquet taking place in the Demesne. 
  'The Festival is proud to announce Duke Special as the headline music performance in Birr Theatre and Arts Centre on Friday 10th. Aptly named he is musically ambitious, bracingly eccentric and once heard never forgotten. A musical treat not to be missed!,' she said.
  The Ormond Flying Club present their Annual Fly In at Birr Airfield with aircraft from Ireland and England involved in live exhibitions and on static display. 
  The Vintage Parade promises to be bigger and brighter than before, transforming sleepy Sunday streets into a carnival of vintage cars, engines and bikes, horses and carriages, floats, a wonderful array of music and street theatre for all ages to enjoy. The carnival atmosphere continues throughout the afternoon with a variety of family entertainment including Bouncing Castles, Face Painting, Live Music, Jugglers and Clowns. 
  The 38th Annual Antique and Fine Art Fair has been a central part of the festival since its launch in 1969. Furniture, silver, clocks, garden furniture, jewellery, linen and pictures will be on display and for sale. The largest provincial Fair in the country returns to County Arms Hotel for three days during the Festival. 
  Written and directed by Campbell Black 'And they used to Star in Movies', a surreal comedy reuniting three former Disney superstars: Mickey, Minnie and Donald takes place in Birr Theatre and Arts Centre on the Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. 
  Thity years after their world famous celebrity days they recall past glories, dreaming of a comeback in this hilarious comedy set in a seedy LA bar. This 50-minute satire was sell-out success at Dublin's Theatre Fringe Festival, 2006. 
  The Donkey Derby welcomes all the family to a fun filled evening at County Arms Hotel grounds on Wednesday, to support local businesses, pubs, clubs and societies as they hee-haw their way to what is unquestionably the Derby Title of the Year!!
  Free daily children's events include Scooter and Go-Kart races, a Scavenger Hunt, Pavement Art competition and opportunities to take part in Sunday's parade. There are also Arts/Crafts and Percussion workshops, Storytelling Sessions and Teddy Bear's Picnic. 
  Sports enthusiasts have the Choice of Vintage Tennis, Mixed Tag Rugby, Heritage Cycles, Walking Tours, Basketball and Beach Volleyball Competitions and a Swim Gala at Birr Leisure Centre. 
  The banks of the Camcor River are the setting for another fantastic evening of family entertainment on Thursday - The Camcor Capers, Enjoy children's entertainment, Mongrel Dog Show, Bonnie Baby Competition, Bouncing Castles, Giant Climbing Wall etc. A live Salsa Band will keep all ages entertained and a spectacular Fireworks display will close the evening with a bang!
  For music lovers there are a wide range of events. Live music on the Streets of Birr include aspiring musicians of the future competing in Saturday's Busking Competition. Birr Stage Guild's lunchtime Concerts run daily whilst the Guinness Singing and Swinging Pubs takes place in local pubs across the town. There will also be a performance of 'O'Carolans Dream' by renowned flautist and harpist duo Karin Leitner and Cormac De Barra. 
  At the Guinness Festival Finalé. Pop-Idol wannabes (18 yrs +) sing for the prestigious Vintage Idol crown. Fans must be there to vote by text message for their favourite performer. A guaranteed path to Stardom... or just for laughs!
  The Finalé will also tie up the final rounds of the Guinness Bulls Eye Quiz and Guinness Charades competition, with the prizegiving for these and the Guinness Singing and Swinging Pubs, along with the announcement of the winner of the Photographic Competition. A great night's entertainment with late night DJ. 
  Chairperson, Michelle de Forge emphasised the point that since the Festival began the Arts have played a central role. 'Following the successful expansion of the Arts Programme the Committee is delighted to welcome Paul Murnaghan as Curator of Synesthesia Sat, a specially commissioned exhibition of contemporary art specifically developed for the week long visual arts programme. 
  Michelle explained that the artists were selected through contemporary art practice. 'Many of the artists involved are of international standing and were attracted to Birr by the opportunity of working in such a beautiful historic surroundings, with an eclectic group of artists in a place noted for its positive attitude to the arts.' 
  In conclusion, Michelle thanked and acknowledged the sponsors, the organisers and the manpower that has greatly increased in recent years. 'We wish to express sincere thanks to the Arts Council and Offaly County Council Arts Office for Festival funding; to Guinness, Cavanagh Foundry, Shannon Development and each and every local business sponsor for their generous financial contribution to fuel the Festival - please support those who support the Festival!'
  'Thank you to all clubs, societies and venues who host fun filled events; Birr Town Council, Birr Garda Siochana, Birr Fire Brigade, Civil Defence, Central Fire Station (Tullamore), Order of Malta and FCA for assistance and co-operation with all matters; Birr Chamber of Commerce and Tom Parlon for encouraging financial support of the Festival; Paul Murnaghan, Emma Nee Haslam, David Manzor, Ann Quinlan, Birr Active Retirement Group, St. Brendan's Environmental Group, Birr Lions Club and all groups and individuals for their vital volunteering spirit and enthusiasm both before and during the Festival!'

27/7/2007
Stephen Grant In Final Of Entrepreneur Of Year Awards

Inventor Stephen Grant from Birr has secured a place in the finals of 2007 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards.
  Stephen, CEO and Founder of Grant Engineering which manufactures market leading oil fired boilers, is a self-taught engineer. His award winning and patented designs have set the gold standard for domestic boiler design in both Ireland and UK for fuel efficiency, cost savings and significantly reduced emissions. His brilliant design skill

27/7/2007
Riverstown Man Responsible For Overall Management Of Ireland's Largest Aid Agency

Paul O'Brien from Riverstown outside Birr is Concern's overseas director and is responsible for overall management of the work Ireland's largest aid agency is doing in the 30 countries around the world where it is engaged.
  As I arrive in Paul's office he is reading over Concern's country strategic plans for the next five years in Haiti and Liberia.
That quickly puts me in the picture in understanding that Concern is not just an agency that comes alive when an emergency occurs and Paul, right through our chat, keeps stressing that Concern is deeply involved in long-term developmental work.
  'Yes, I admit that our emergency work gets higher profile in the media but if you break down our work, you can say that 50 per cent is development and 50 per cent emergency.
  'It is only natural that the emergency side of our work gets more attention, the general public are naturally more interested when it comes to natural disasters or major crises as they are shown on TV. And indeed, when there is not a crisis it can be difficult to get the energy of people going,' Paul explains.
  Part of Paul's job is to appoint top Concern staff in the countries around the world where it is working and he points out that there are always five to seven directors to appoint. 'It's a little like a chess board,' he smiles.
  But he is clinically clear in pointing out that Concern makes it its business that the agency is always and everywhere working as a facilitator. 
  'We link people together. We find ways and solutions together with the people with whom we are working. We don't just give things to people.
  'And in that context I believe we are making a huge difference, though it may be small and pragmatic in ways. We respect people,' he says.
  Paul O'Brien has no doubt that Concern is making a huge difference where it is working.
  'Great progress is taking place in Tanzania. There are many reasons for this, including the work of the present Tanzanian government. The government is interested in helping its own people. The legacy of Julius Nyerere also plays an important role. He was a great leader.
 'Nyerere's policy of "Ujamaa" best translated from Swahilli as "villagisation" may have failed but it gave the people a pride in Tanzania, it gave them one language - Swahilli.
  'Even today I am always impressed when I meet Tanzanians and how they first identify themselves as Tanzanians, rather than as a particular tribe within the country,' he explains.
  Concern has just moved into Chad where in the next six mon

27/7/2007
Birr News Digest

Wilmer Tennis Club
  Last Friday night's Social Tennis Night at the Wilmer Tennis Club was another very enjoyable occasion and thanks to everyone who is supporting this event. It is good to see the crowds coming along and having a fun night and long may it continue.
  The annual Kit Kat Parks Tennis week will take place next week from Monday July 30th to Friday August 3rd. Hopefully all those who have signed up for this will have a very enjoyable week.
  The Junior Open Week will take place from August 6th to August 11th. Anyone interested in entering please see details on club noticeboard. 
  The Midland League has now started. Teams in Divisions 3, 4 and 5 were all in action away from home last week. Division 3 lost 3-1 in Templemore, Division 4 drew 2-2 in Loughrea, while the Division 5 team drew 2-2 in Roscrea. The teams will be in action again this week and best of luck to them all.
  Membership is now due and should be paid to treasurer Tory Baker or any committee member as soon as possible.
  Sincere sympathy is extended to Betty & Eddie Hogan on the death of Betty's father, Tommy Hynes.
  Sympathy also to Tommy Geraghty on the death of his brother Sean.

Lifeguard Course
  Lifeguard course starting on Saturday July 28th at 10a.m. at Birr Leisure Centre. Enquiries to (057) 9120343.

Book Club 
  The next book club meeting will be held on Monday, 13th August. The book for this month is 'McCarthy Bar' by Pete McCarthy (chosen by Sheila). New members welcome. Enquiries - 057 9139028. 

Sunrise Inn Golf Society
  Coming up is the Sunrise Inn Golf Society annual fundraiser to sponser a child to Lourdes. This year they are hoping to send three children. They have an outing to Abbeyleix Golf Club on 28th July (Saturday). Tee times are 10-11a.m. They would like to welcome any visitors who would like to support this worthy cause. They also have 'The Elvis Show' in the Sunrise that Saturday night. Any sponsorship for this great cause would be greatly appreciated. See you all on the 28th.

Carrig And Riverstown Annual Outing
  August 1st to Emo Court House and Gardens with evening meal included. Cost €10 per person. Bus leaving Carrig at 9.30a.m. Please contact Mary Keeshan at 9121201, Dorothy Nolan 91 22413, Margaret O'Brien 91 20555 before Wednesday 25th July. 

Exciting Programme At Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
  A special treat for Ballet lovers on Friday 27th July with Ballet Ireland’s Showcase 2007 and for film enthusiasts a Mini Film Festival, Film Shots on Sunday 5th August. (Please note change of date from that previously advertised). With a diverse range of events throughout Birr Vintage Week & Arts Festival there’s something for everyone. See more information www.birrtheatre.com or call the box office on (057) 9122911:  1p.m.-5.30p.m. Monday-Friday. 

Rambles In Eireann
  Sunday 5th August. Meet at 2.00pm at Fivealley - or no later than 2.30pm at the Library Car Park Banagher - for a walk to Victoria Lock (Lusmagh) led by Jim Madden. Tea afterwards at Crank House.
  Sunday 9th September. All day outing to Croagh Patrick by bus leaving Fivealley at 7.30a.m. Bring a pack lunch and drinks. Cost €25 per head. Names and money to Sinead (086) 0548143 (after 7.00p.m.) by 9th August, please.
  Note that there will be no walk on Sunday 2nd September.
  Visit www.ramblesineirinn.org

Thanks
  Mary Teehan from Shinrone would like to thank most sincerely all those who very kindly supported her in her charity walk for cancer on the 7th of June. She raised €500. She would particularly like to say thank you to Vozza's chip shop Roscrea, Jimmy Noonan, Ballingarry, John Smyth, Birr, Joe Rowland, Birr, Post Office Shinrone, Clover Lodge Nursing Home Shinrone, Claire McNamara Shinrone. 

Parish Sale of Work
  The Annual Parish Sale of Work will take place on this Saturday, July 28th, at Cloughmoyle School, Shinrone, commencing at 3p.m.
  All the usual stalls and attraction will be present and the afternoon guarantees something for everyone in the family.  Adults can enjoy the Lucky Dip and a delicious Cake Sale among other attractions, while the kids can enjoy free pony rides and lots of other fun events especially for them.
  The annual raffle is currently underway with the first €600 raised going, as always, to the Special Care Room at Birr Hospital.  Tickets for the raffle are available from parishioners and your support for this very worthwhile local cause will be very much appreciated.

Exhibition
  Bramber Studio is holding an exhibition of paintings by Hazel Greene and the students of Bramber Studio at Birr Technology Centre during Vintage Week, which run from August 10th to 17th.  All students, past and present, are invited to take part.  Please contact Cyril on (087) 2889616 for details.

Bus To Knock
  A bus will travel to Knock Shrine on Sunday, August 19th. For further details contact James O’Connell on (0505) 46811 or (087) 6627410.

Marian Hall Notes
  Bingo; The Jackpot on Friday night last was not won. The Jackpot this Friday night is €3,000 on 47 calls with a top game of €300 if not won. Calling 8.30p.m. sharp. 
  Progressive 25 Drive; Top prize on Sunday night was shared on 11 games by Paddy Delaney and Frank Mulvey, Kieran Coughlan and Sonny Ryan. Two pairs had lucky tens Eugene and Peggy Martin, Jimmy Byrne and Jack Ryan. The last game went to Jack Corrigan and A. O'Donoghue while the table prize was won by Tom Carroll and Paddy Tumulty. Raffle prize winners were Vincent Cordial (x 2) and Kieran Meleaney. Cards continue on Sunday night with a jackpot of €1,000 on 14 games at 9p.m. sharp. 

Chiropody/Accupuncture
  Ann Lovett, Chiropodist and accupuncturist will attend the County Arms, Birr each Tuesday and Wednesday. Consultation by appointment, phone (087) 7990066 on (068) 27993. (Advert)

Crazy Sale Days 
  Three crazy sale days this Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Massive clearance - all summer stock must go at Zandra Fashion House (Prop. Mary Rigney), Main St. Birr (057) 91 20400. (See Advert).

Highfield Utd Lotto
  The jackpot in this week's Highfield United lotto was €4,400. Numbers drawn 1, 21, 26, 28. No jackpot winner. One match three winner receives €150 - Tracy Kinsella, c/o Stephen Pardy. Next week's draw takes place in the Market Tavern for a Jackpot €4,500. 

New All Weather Facility For Birr Town 
  Birr Town Football Club have just started their new project to build a new all weather synthetic grass surface at Woodfield Park at a cost of €130,000. Birr's intention is to have this facility ready for use for the coming season. Emerald pitches Edenderry are the engineer's for the project and work with the new drainage system starts this week.

Soccer Camp 20th August to 24th August
  Due to the huge success of the 1st FAI Summer Soccer Camp in Birr in July, a second camp is being held at Woodfield from 20th August to 24th August. Entry forms are available in Birr Post Office. Any enquiries ring (086) 8892429. 

Birr Town Lotto 
  Numbers drawn in this week's Birr Town AFC lotto were 15, 20, 24, 29 and bonus 27. No winner. Five lucky dips drawn were: Charlie Ritchie, Emmet St., Martin O'Brien Cappaneale, Phyllis Landy, Westgate, Anne Whelan, Moorepark, John Guinan, Newbridge St. All receive €40 each. Next week's prizemoney is €16,800 with star prize €19,800. Next draw will be in Whelahan's. Thanks for your support. 

Birr Mart 
  Bullocks: 2 ch 485kgs €655, 2 ch 395kgs €620, 1 lim 245kgs €500, 2 sim 653kgs €960, 3 lim 645kgs €975, 1 sim 350kgs €540, 1 ch 500kgs €765, 2 ch 535kgs €775, 2 ch 388kgs €705, 1 her 630kgs €800. Heifers: 1 her €575kgs €790, 3 her 477kgs €640, 1 ch 435kgs €630, 1 lim 475kgs €635, 2 lim 335kgs €560, 1 her 565kgs €740, 1 ch 480kgs €650, 2 her 493kgs €645. Dry Cows: 1 sim 680kgs €640 1 her 795kgs €800 1 fr 685kgs €755 1 lim 620kgs €785. 
  Sheep Sale on Thursday 19th July 2007. Lambs: €25 to €30 over a Kg. Cull Ewes: €30 to €49 per head. 

Ladies Mini Marathon 
  Presentation of cheques from funds raised in the Ladies Mini Marathon to St. Luke's Hospital and Neo Natal Unit, Ballinasloe will take place on Friday 27th July at The Palace Bar. For a night of fun and games spot prizes, singing and dancing, be at the Palace Bar at 8p.m. Many thanks to all who have supported them in their fundraising efforts. 

Adult Social Dancing
  Adult Social Dancing takes place in the County Arms Hotel, Birr every Tuesday night at 9.30p.m. sharp. Next Tuesday, July 31st music will be provided by Patrick O'Sullivan.

Birr Citizens Information Services 
  Birr Citizens Information Services, The Courtyard Office Centre, Emmet St, Birr, call 05791 21017. Normal opening hours are - Monday to Friday 10a.m.-2p.m. 
  Currently they have information from the Health & Safety Authority, the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Scheme, and Third Level grant application forms.
  Lo-Call 1890 777121 or visit www.citizensinformation.ie. 

GROW
  A Grow Group meets each week in Birr. If you are someone who experienced depression or anxiety attacks or who is simply in need of company do come along. You will have an opportunity to meet others, share your problems in confidence, get support and make new friends. All are welcome. No fees. Meetings take place in the Community Health Centre, The Convent, Wilmer Road, Birr at 7.30p.m. every Tuesday. For further information please contact Ruairi on (087) 2510965 or (057) 9351124.
  Website:www.grow.ie  Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Dochas
  The Offaly Cancer Support Group is based at Teach Dóchas, Offaly St., Tullamore. They offer support to people living with cancer and their families and carers. Opening hours: Monday to Friday 10a.m to 2p.m. Telephone 05793 28268 email: dochasoffaly@eircom.net. 

Farmers Vegetable Market
  Farmers Vegetable Market will be in the Marian Hall Car Park every Saturday between 10a.m.-5p.m. (Advert)

Birr Resource Centre 
  The Birr Resource Centre and Community Facility provides affordable meeting space for community and voluntary groups. Also free typing service available to local groups. More details please phone 05791 21912 or call into office in Londis Car Park. Open Monday to Thursday 9.30a.m. to 1.30p.m. and Friday 9.30a.m. to 1p.m. 

Birr Parent/Toddler Group 
  Birr Parent/Toddler Group will re-open on Tuesday August 7th next. Looking forward to seeing everyone back after the July break.

Youth Disco
  A youth disco will be held every Thursday until July 26th at Melba's Nite Club, Birr. 8p.m.-10p.m. Admission €5. 10-16 year olds welcome. All proceeds go to the Midland branch of Cystic Fibrosis.

Eglish/Rath Cemetery Sunday
  Eglish/Rath Cemetery Sunday will be held this Sunday July 29th. Blessing of graves in  Rath Cemetery at 7.15p.m. and in Eglish the blessing of the graves will be at 8p.m. 
  Please note parish pilgrimage to Knock is arranged for Sunday August 19th. Further details later.

27/7/2007
Late Phyllis O'Callaghan, Crinkle & Northampton

  The death occured of Phyllis O'Callaghan (nee Cooke) at her home in 10 Victoria Promenade, Northampton
on the 12th June last aged 68 years in the loving care of her sons and daughters. Phyllis breathed her 
last breath by declaring 'I am going home'. Phyllis was daughter of the late Thomas and Bridget Cooke,
The Terrace, Crinkle. She attended school at Crinkle National School and on leaving there she worked in
Egan's Hotel before going over to England.  She worked in a textile factory in Bolton. After that she
relocated to Northampton where she was to meet her husband to be Jeremiah O'Callaghan of Cork. They combined to manage a public house in Northampton over a number of years. They had four lovely children. Phyllis never lost contact with the people of Crinkle. She went to England in 1953 and only missed the last two years of not visiting the village of Crinkle, a unique record of coming home for a holiday for over 50 years. Her yearly holidays in Birr and Crinkle ensured that she didn't lose contact with her neighbours and school
mates and the business people of Birr. She was laid to rest beside her late husband Jeremiah in Northampton
on the 26th June, 2007 after Concelebrated Mass at Northampton Cathedral. Sincere sympathy is extended to her sons Barry and Philip, daughters Carol and Geraldine, her brothers Noel, Tony, Michael, sister Diana, nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, neighbours and friends.  

27/7/2007
So Long, Farewell . . .

  Best wishes and every blessing to Fr Pat Greed who has been appointed Parish Priest in Clonlara, Co. Clare. The parish thank him for his dedicated commitment over the last six years and hope he will have many happy and fulfilled years in Clonlara. 
  A thousand welcomes to Fr. David Carroll who is coming to Birr from Nenagh. He will take up duty this coming weekend. 

27/7/2007
Ballet Ireland At Birr Theatre & Arts Centre This Friday Night

Ballet Ireland Choreographic Showcase 2007 - DON’T MISS IT!  We are promised an evening packed with surprises and innovation together with more traditional beauty and grace when Ballet Ireland perform at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre this Friday night at 8p.m. 
 Through the choreographic showcase platform, aspiring young choreographers are given time and encouragement to develop their ideas. They work with the cream of Ballet Ireland's dancers, are provided with studio and rehearsal facilities and finally, their work is presented to the public in a professional setting. This professional performance will also include two pieces taken from Ballet Ireland’s main repertoire, Bamboo Spring and Irish Rhapsody with music by Charles Villiers Stanford.
  Friday 27th July, 8p.m. €12/€10. 
 Box Office open Monday–Friday, 1p.m.-5.30p.m. (057) 9122911.

27/7/2007
Gallant Kehoe Fails To Make Cut In British Open

Justin Kehoe's dreams of glory in the British Open ended in disappointment when he failed to make the cut on Friday last.
  Kehoe could only look on enviously as Irish golfer Padraig Harrington captured his first major title on Sunday with a sensational play off win over Spain's Sergio Garcia. 
  His ambitions went up in smoke on Thursday and Friday when he posted rounds of 78 and 79 for a 15 over par total.
  The Shinrone native had performed very well to quality for the open when he came through the local qualifying tournament in Montrose in Scotland.
  A member of Birr Golf Club, Kehoe turned professional in January of 2004. He was a very talented amateur before turning pro and won the South of Ireland championship in 2001 while he also made the Great Britain and Ireland Palmer Cup team. The highlight of his career was winning the World Universities Championship in Taipei in 2002.
  Kehoe has represented Ireland at boys, youths and senior level and now competes on the Europro and Challenge Tours.
  The British Open is the holy grail of the golfing majors and Kehoe actually started off positively last Thursday in Carnoustie. He parred the opening eight holes but it then fell apart for him. On the next four holes, he posted bogey, double bogey, bogey and bogey and had a further two bogeys on the 15th and 16th for a round of 78.
  Kehoe needed a super round on Friday to achieve his ambition of making the cut and he got two birdies in the first sixth holes, along with three pars and one bogey. He then had four disastrous holes, hitting two double bogeys and two bogeys and it was all over bar the shouting.
  On the back eight, Kehoe had five pars and three bogeys but he will still look back with fondness on the experience of playing in the company of some of the golfing greats.
  From August 2nd to the 5th, Kehoe will compete in a European Challenge Tour event in Glasson Golf Club, just outside Athlone.

27/7/2007
Birr Camogie Notes

U-12 Match Versus Lusmagh
  We travelled to play Lusmagh last week in a very sporting game and came out as winners on a scoreline of 2-3 to 0-0. Well done to all involved.
Senior Match Versus Lusmagh
  We travelled to Lusmagh on Sunday last, with some regulars missing due to injury and holidays. A good display was given by all.  The final scoreline was 2-11 to 1-1. Scorers for Birr were Arlene Watkins 1-8, Danielle Ryan 0-2 and Orla Carey 1-2.
  Training is at usual times for all teams.
  A speedy recovery to Mick Hough. We hope he is back on the sidelines soon.  

27/7/2007

Birr Exit Intermediate Football Championship

IFC; Birr 2-7 Raheen 1-12
  Birr Intermediate footballers suffered a second defeat in this years championship at the hands of Raheen. The match was played in Rath, which given the recent inclement weather, was in top condition.
  Raheen went into this match as strong favourites (as last year's beaten county finalists) and approached the match in a very confident and determined fashion. Raheen were out of the blocks very quickly and had Birr on the backfoot with their strong play and interpassing. They went ahead following good play and were two points ahead after ten minutes.
  Birr gradually got to the pace of the game and set about their task in determined fashion. Following a good passing movement involving five players Sean Ryan scored a stunning goal from 20 metres. This brought Birr back with a bang and rocked Raheen to the core. Birr got great heart from this goal and registered a further two points courtesy of Sean Ryan. Raheen got back on top in the last ten minutes of the half and went in at half time leading by 1-8 to 1-2.
  There was great determination evident in the Birr camp at half time. All involved realised that the six point deficit did not reflect their efforts in the first half.
  Birr played with the elements in the second half and played with composure, determination and no little skill. Dave Coffey, who displayed great fielding ability and leadership skills all day, caught a huge ball on the Raheen 14 metre line, broke the tackle and kicked a rocket to the Raheen net. This left just one point between the sides.
 Birr tried manfully to get the equaliser and despite their best efforts came up short on the day. It was a heartening display by a gallant Birr team, who on the day were missing a few regulars. The game was highly skilful, entertaining and fast paced.  Birr lost nothing in defeat and finished the stronger team on the day.
  Best for Birr were Clifford McDonald who gave a masterclass in defending, Bryan Lonergan, Sean Ryan, who finished with 1-5 and displayed the talent which has made a him a County Senior star,  Dave Coffey (who turned the clock back to a previous era), Neil Rogers and Michael Verney.
  Birr lined out as follows Liam Kirwan, Simon Whelahan, Clifford McDonald, Frank Gallagher, Aidan Delaney, Gareth Doorley, Michael Verney, Joe O'Loughlin, Shane Carter, Donal Ryan, Dave Coffey (1-1), Sean Ryan (1-5), Bryan Lonergan (0-1), Neil Rogers, Barry Harding. Subs Used: Declan Ryan, Alan Corboy, Martin Skeffington, Liam Power.
  We wish Raheen well in the latter stages of the competition.  
  

27/7/2007
Golfing In The Glenns

Lady Captain’s Prize
  Congratulations to Lady Captain Yvonne Boland on a very successful Captain’s Prize run over two days, Wednesday and Sunday. Luckily the sun shone on both days which meant some very fine scores were returned by the large number of players. 
  President Mary Darcy introduced the Lady Captain. In her speech Yvonne expressed deep gratitude to the organising committee who guaranteed that everything ran smoothly without a hitch. She thanked the course, bar and catering staffs who were keen to make the day a resounding success. 
  Yvonne Claffey, a very popular winner, stated how delighted she was to accept Yvonne’s prize especially on a day when Padraig Harrington’s performance at Carnoustie left one breathless. She will treasure the prize, a painting from the 11th tee in Springtime by Wink Foreman from Borrisokane. The presentations were followed by a very enjoyable social evening.
For Your Diary
  Wednesday July 25th; Ladies.
  Thursday July 26th; 9.00a.m. to 9.30a.m. Juveniles. 18-Holes and 9-Holes for beginners.
  Saturday July 28th; Ladies 18-Hole Stroke.
  Sunday July 29th; 18-Hole Stableford. Men.
  Monday July 30th; 5.00p.m. Presidents’ Mixed.
  Tuesday July 31st; Open Stableford. Full catering available.
  Wednesday August 1st; Ladies 18-Hole Stroke. 
  Sunday August 5th; Matt Spain Cup.
  Monday August 6th; Grennan Open 4-Ball.
  Saturday/Sunday August 11th/12th; Captain Billy Donlon’s Prize. First round. Timesheet in locker room.
Results
  Lady Captain Yvonne Boland’s Prize. 1st Yvonne Claffey (73+71) = 144 nett. 2nd Vera Smyth (73+72) = 145 nett. Gross: Gemma Butler (85 + 83) = 168 Gross. 3rd Tori Baker (75+74) = 149 nett.  Past Captain. Mary O'Gorman (80+70) = 150 nett. 4th Dor Dempsey (75+76) = 151 nett. 5th Martina O’Brien (79+73) = 152 nett. 6th Emer Hanniffy (77+75) = 152 nett. Cat. A (0-18) Sheila Grennan (82+72) = 154 nett. Cat.B (19-28) Maie Tooher (79+75) = 154 nett. Cat. C (29-36) Margo Regan (81+80) 161 nett.  Wednesday. 1st Susan Reidy 75 nett. 2nd Bernie McTague 77 nett. Sunday. 1st Ann Kenny 73 nett. 2nd  Mary Grennan 74 nett. 9-Hole Men. 1st John Glennon  Ladies. Carmel Kelly. Putting sponsored by Allure Banagher. 1st Evelyn Lynch. 2nd Marie Corcoran. 3rd Mary Sullivan.
  Presidents’ Mixed. 1st Michael Stephens, Kathleen Tooher, Fran Quinn. 2nd Tom Wright, Margo Regan, Michael Liffey. 3rd Seamas Guinan, Aileen Watkins, Mick Graham.
  Juvenile Results; Boys 18- Hole 1st David Sheils 44 pts. 2nd Brendan Heffernan 39 pts. 3rd Conor Nolan 37 pts. 4th Conor Grimes 33 pts. 5th Emmet Nolan 33 pts.
  Girls 18 Hole.1st Hazel Cavanagh. 35 pts. 2nd Niamh O’Brien 28 pts. 3rd Eimear Delaney 23 pts. 4th Niamh Cavanagh 20 pts. 5th Alison Cavanagh 19 pts.
Interclub Matches
  Heartiest congratulations to the Ladies’ Miele team on a splendid victory over Tubbercurry last Monday. Despite thunder and lightning and long delays at the Sligo venue our away players did the needful and have now qualified for the regional finals in Mallow. Well done to the manager Mary O’Gorman and her team of Ann Kenny/Tori Baker, Ann Frawley/Kathleen Doorley, Gemma Butler/Mary Grennan and Martina O’Brien/Mary Ryan. 
 Our Provincial Towns’ team put up a mighty fight against Gowran, last year’s winners. The away players were very unlucky to lose two matches on the 19th. Managers Paschal Troy and Joe Slevin have had some fine wins over the season but this one just escaped by the odd match. At home were Tommy Hogan, Jonathan Kelly, P.J. Lowry and Albert Kelly. Away were Tony McCormack, Padraig Freeman, K.P. Kelly, Darragh Claffey and Conor Murphy. Better luck next year.
Justin Kehoe
  Well done to Justin on some fine golf at the Open. What a privilege to be there and to be part of those stunning Irish victories of Padraig Harrington and Rory McIlroy. Our Captain Billy Donlon , Michael Ashe (Hon. Sec. Men) and several other members were there to support Justin. Let’s hope for many more exciting days on the Tour.
Thanks
  The Management and Members wish to thank Cavanaghs Foundry and Manager Padraig Freeman for their generous sponsorship of the new distance markers on the course. The markers are to the centre of the greens and are: Blue (200 Metres). Yellow (150 metres) and Red (100 metres).

19/7/2007
New Irish Game And Country Fair Launched In Birr

Birr Castle, which will be the setting of the all new Irish Game and County Fair, hosted a reception last Thursday evening to officially launch the new Irish Game and Country Fair which will take place on 25th and 26th August 2007. The new Fair, The Irish Game and Country Fair, has been marketed and promoted as the Great Games Fair of Ireland. The Fair will incorporate a continuous programme of events from traditional country sports, displays and exhibitions. There will be unrivalled demonstrations of shooting, angling, Medieval displays, gundogs, falconry, Cochise Horses Western Riding and exhibits. But it also sets in place the largest prize funds ever seen at any Game Fair in Ireland. Albert Titterington, the Marketing Director for the Fair, remarked on the ideal location that Birr provides for such as event. 'When I first visited Birr Castle some years ago I thought it was a truly magical place and with its myriad existing attractions and central location, it is a superb venue for a National Irish Game Fair. When we decided to join up with our colleagues in the South to launch a new Game Fair in the Republic of Ireland, we simply could not think of a more suitable venue. We are delighted that Lord and Lady Rosse have agreed to make our vision a reality and host the inaugural Irish Game and Country Fair in a venue that truly and literally espouses the town meets the country theme.' Mr Titterington, whose expertise in organising events and marketing Country Fairs spans three decades, emphasised local community involvement as the lynchpin to the success of the Fair. Mr Titterington stated that the organisers wanted the local community and businesses to take pride in this fair as their own. 'We know that the core to the success of this Game Fair will lie with the involvement of the local community both from the people and the businesses. I would emphasise strongly that we want to foster an atmosphere whereby the people of Birr can take pride in this being their Fair.' To gain as much interest and involvement from local businesses as possible Mr Titterington commented that they are offering specially discounted Exhibition rates for County Offaly exhibitors in the tented village. For further information on this point local business enterprises can contact for further details by e-mail irishgameandcountryfair@yahoo.ie or by calling 048 90483873. Speaking to mark the occasion Lord Rosse commented that as hosts they are absolutely delighted to be given the chance to welcome to Birr the launch of this new Game and Country Fair. He added that this was not just a simple resurrection of the National Country Fair that they were privileged to have in Birr in previous years, 'we hope to offer much more variety and exciting events to the programme.' Town Council Chairperson, Mr Michael Loughnane re-iterated Lord Rosse's sentiments adding, 'as you all know we have had in the past a National Country Fair here in the Castle which proved to be a great boost to the town and I am sure this new Game and Country will attract an equal number of tourists in August this year.' Mr Loughnane commented that this was another great asset to the town and surrounding areas. 'Birr has achieved a lot on tourism. Whilst we don't have the sea we have many other attractions which have been promoted for years by organisations such as Shannon Development and Ely O'Carroll. As you all know we have the Telescope here and the Scientific Centre which are great assets for the town.' Mr Loughnane concluded by stating, 'I am sure that the help and expertise of the Game Fair, based in the North, who have hosted a successful Game Fair in Antrim each year, that we likewise will have a successful event here in Birr for many years to come.' The event organisers, Albert Titterington, David Wilkinson, Philip Lawton and Irene Titterington who are amongst some of the most experienced Game Fair organisers in the world have put in place a wide range of competitions, displays, demonstrations, trade stands and exhibits to appeal to anyone who lives, works or plays in the countryside. Mr Titterington proudly commented that there will be unrivalled Medieval displays, exhibits, demonstrations of shooting, fishing , gundogs, falconry, Cochise Horses Western Riding. In the Main arena will be a Fly casting championship with an attempt on the Irish and World Records, gundog demonstrations to name but a few of the attractions. The Clay shooting will be feature an imaginative layout with a range of competitions to suit most tastes but also give the more novice shot a chance to get into the prizes. A top quality Beretta EELL shotgun and other quality prizes can be won at the Birr Fair's inaugural day's shooting championships. The competitions at Birr are organised by the team from the Birr Castle Shooting Syndicate headed up by Seamus Glennon and Seamus Pierce. Angling Director Philip Maher, will host the the Angling section of the Fair in the picturesque setting of the lake. There will be a programme of demonstrations, coaching and tuition and casting competitions including attempts on the World and Irish Trout distance casting records.

19/7/2007
39th Annual Birr Vintage Week & Arts Festival Update

A highly successful Sponsored Cycle took place last Sunday. Over 40 cyclists of all ages turned out (plus Willow the dog), together with a large number of supporters lending a festive air to the afternoon outing. All made it safely to Kinnitty where there was a well earned rest in Percy Clendennens. A hardy few even made the return journey by bicycle, whilst others gratefully accepted lifts. The only reported casualties were bicycle tyres but the back-up crew were on hand with the pumps! The Committee would like to say a big Thank You to all participants and sponsors and to Kelly’s of the Green for laying on a fantastic BBQ upon return back to Birr. The Official Launch of the 39th Annual Birr Vintage Week & Arts Festival Programme of Events will take place in the County Arms Hotel this coming Friday, 20th July. All our Sponsors, Advertisers, Artists, Festival Event Hosts and Festival Volunteers are invited to attend. The Programme will be distributed to all local businesses across the midlands and to Tourist Offices nationwide over the next week. A paid Work-Experience is available with the Festival this year. There are a variety of duties involved, including being a public representative of the Festival. Please contact Michelle on (086) 8551937 for further details. Festival organisers are working on an exciting exhibition trail, showcasing visual and performance art by local and invited artists. Venues varying from local cafes and shop windows to offices and unoccupied buildings will be used. To facilitate maximum exposure of these talented artists, it is hoped that exhibitions will be open daily from Friday 10th– Friday 17th August. Volunteers are needed to supervise the exhibitions and the Festival committee are appealing for assistance in this regard. Duties will include opening up, welcoming members of the public, supervising the venue and enjoying the art on show! Offering a few hours of your time is all that is required to ensure the successful continuation of the Exhibition Trail. The arts programme has expanded and developed considerably over the past few years due to public demand and positive feedback from visitors and artists alike. Voluntary assistance is vital and will be gratefully received by any committee member. Please contact Michelle de Forge on (086) 8551937 for further details.

19/7/2007
Local Golfer Competes At British Open

Justin Kehoe from Shinrone, who is attached to Birr Golf Club, will be rubbing shoulders will all the top golfers in the world, including Tiger Woods, Padraig Harrington, Phil Mickelson and Ernie Els, when he takes part in the British Open at Carnoustie this week. Justin, who has been a professional since 2004 after a successful amateur career, will enjoy the greatest experience of his career at the Scottish links and will hope to do himself justice against the world's best. Justin had to come through two stages of qualifying to earn his place at Carnoustie and now has the opportunity to make a mark on the world stage and to measure himself against the top professionals. The British Open is one of just four Majors played annually, along with the US Masters, US Open and USPGA, and it is the oldest of them all. Traditionally played on a links course it attracts all the leading players from around the world. Members of Birr Golf Club are delighted and proud of Justin's achievement of qualifying for the British Open. Club captain Billy Donlon and a number of other members are travelling over to support him in his quest for glory and he will also be joined by members of his family. This is a tremendous achievement for Justin, who has been playing on the EuroPro tour in recent times. He hasn't played a full tour event before so to make his debut at this level in the British Open will be a huge experience. Justin's first qualifying round was regional qualifying at Royal Dublin where he finished joint second with a round of 74. That qualified him for final qualifying at Montrose, which was one of four venues being used at this stage. A total of 96 golfers teed off at each venue with just the top three earning coveted places at Carnoustie. The 27 year old Shinrone man secured his place in the Open by shooting super scores of 67 and 68 for a seven under par total, just two shots behind Matthew Zions of Australia and David Shacklady of Mossock Hall. Justin had a successful career at amateur level and actually made his senior international debut for Ireland at Carnoustie in 2000, when he won four points in a very successful week. He would be looking to be equally as successful this week. In 2001 he had his best success to date, winning the South Of Ireland championship at Lahinch by defeating Stephen Browne in the final. The following year he won the World Universities Championship in Taipei. As well as representing Ireland at all levels he was also a member of the eight man British & Ireland Palmer Cup team, the Universities equivalent of the Ryder Cup. Justin studied commerce in UCD on a golf scholarship before he turned professional in January 2004. He has played the bulk of his golf on the Europro and Challenge Tours, though he spent the early part of this year in the Arizona desert in the USA on the Gateway Tour. This will be the biggest week of his golfing career thus far and he will be hoping to make the most of this great opportunity. On Thursday, he will tee off at 10.59am and is playing in a three ball alongside Mattias Eliasson of Sweden and David Gleeson of Australia. Eliasson qualified through the European qualifying round while Gleeson got there in the Asian qualifying round. He will play with the same players on Friday, this time teeing off in the second last three ball at 4.10pm. His ambition will be to survive Friday's cut but this will be a big challenge for the Shinrone man.

19/7/2007
Birr News Digest

Wilmer Tennis Club The next Social Tennis Night at the Wilmer Tennis Club will take place on this Friday night July 20th at 7.30p.m. Come along for a fun night of tennis and entertainment. The annual inter-firms BBQ was held at the Chestnut on Friday night last. Despite the inclement weather all day, it turned out to be a very enjoyable night with a good crowd present. Thanks to everyone who helped organise the event and made it a success. The chief organisers were Liz Maloney and Mary Horan and thanks to them for their efforts. The club is grateful to Clodagh Fay of the Chestnut, Deirdre Hanniffy and Mary Walsh for their kind sponsorship of food for the barbecue. Prizes were presented to the winning teams in the Inter Firms tournament. This event has been sponsored for a long number of years by The Sportsman's Dream, Nenagh, and sincere thanks are extended to Siobhan Tynan for her continued support of this event. The tournament organisers were John Lynch and Paul Smith and thanks to them for their help. The prizes for the club championships were also presented on the night. Thanks to Eddie Hogan for organising this event. Membership is now due and should be paid to treasurer Tory Baker or any committee member as soon as possible. The annual Kit Kat Parks Tennis week will take place from Monday July 30th to Friday August 3rd. VIVIDance At Birr Theatre & Arts Centre Weekend two of three dance weekends throughout the summer with dance facilitators, Myriad Dance, takes place on Friday 20th– Sunday 22nd July. Following the success of weekend 1 at the end of June many more people have registered for the remaining workshops. This weekend is about making new dance from single ideas from participants. An ideal opportunity for students interested in learning about choreography, with dancers Deirdre Grant and Cristina Coletti of Myriad Dance. Further information and registration at Box Office: (057) 9122911 or on www.birrtheatre.com.   Birr Polocrosse Club   Birr Polocrosse club annual tournament will be held at Birr Equestrian Centre on the weekend of the 21st and 22nd of July. All are welcome to come and watch this the fastest growing equestrian sport in the world. Play will start at 9a.m. both days. For information contact Paul at (087) 1263179. Adult Social Dancing Adult Social Dancing in Shinrone Community Centre on Saturday next July 21st. Dancing 9.30p.m. to 12.30a.m. Light refreshments. Music by Midnight Melodies. Spot prize on door tickets. Emporium At The Stables Sale Emporium At The Stables (Oxmantown Mall, Birr) sale now on. Reductions of up to 50% on a large selection of furnishings and gifts. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10.30a.m. to 5.30p.m. Food served all day. (Advert). Lifeguard Course Lifeguard course starting on Saturday July 28th at 10a.m. at Birr Leisure Centre. Enquiries to (057) 9120343. Adult Social Dancing Adult Social Dancing takes place in the County Arms Hotel, Birr every Tuesday night at 9.30p.m. sharp. Next Tuesday, July 24th music will be provided by Checkers. Parish Sale Of Work The Annual Parish Sale of Work will take place on Saturday, July 28th, at Cloughmoyle School, Shinrone, commencing at 3p.m. All the usual stalls and attraction will be present and the afternoon guarantees something for everyone in the family. The annual raffle is currently underway with the first €600 raised going, as always, to the Special Care Room at Birr Hospital. Tickets for the raffle are available from parishioners and your support will be very much appreciated. Book Club The next book club meeting will be held on Monday, 13th August. The book for this month is 'McCarthy Bar' by Pete McCarthy (chosen by Sheila). New members welcome. Enquiries - 057 9139028. Sunrise Inn Golf Society Coming up is the Sunrise Inn Golf Society annual fundraiser to sponser a child to Lourdes. This year they are hoping to send three children. They have an outing to Abbeyleix Golf Club on 28th July (Saturday). Tee times are 10-11a.m. They would like to welcome any visitors who would like to support this worthy cause. They also have 'The Elvis show' in the Sunrise that Saturday night. Any sponsorship for this great cause would be greatly appreciated. See you all on the 28th. Carrig And Riverstown Annual Outings August 1st to Emo Court House and Gardens with evening meal included. Cost €10 per person. Bus leaving Carrig at 9.30a.....m. Please contact Mary Keeshan at 9121201, Dorothy Nolan 91 22413, Margaret O'Brien 91 20555 before Wednesday 25th July. Birr Mart Bullocks: 4 her 526kgs €740, 1 bb 425kgs €700, 1 lim 730kgs €1,120, 3 ch 503kgs €745, 1 aa 630kgs €875, 2 lim 355kgs €560, 1 her 595kgs €915, 1 ch 755kgs €1,185, 1 ch 630kgs €915, 1 ch 595kgs €925, 1 ch 765kgs €1,150, 1 ch 695kgs €1,125. Heifers: 1 sim 580kgs €825, 1 ch 595kgs €915, 1 ch 570kgs €855, 2 her 355kgs €525, 2 lim 400kgs €690, 2 ch 460kgs €720, 1 ch 405kgs €665, 1 lim 510kgs €790. Sheep sale on Thursday 12th July 2007. lambs: €30 to €35 over a Kg. Cull Ewes: €40 to €61 per head. Highfield United FC Numbers drawn in this week's Highfield United lotto were 2, 9, 20, 29. No jackpot winner. No match three. Five names drawn receive €30 each. They were Jimmy Kelly, c/o Jim Kelly, Stephen Pardy, c/o Seller, Mary Nolan, c/o Aidan Kinahan, Gerry Hough, c/o Alan Cooney, Ann O'Connor, c/o Nolans. Next week's draw is in Craughwells. Jackpot €4,400. Birr Town Lotto The numbers drawn in the Birr Town FC lotto were 10, 12, 22, 29 and bonus 9. No jackpot winner. One match three winner gets €200 - Frances Davis, c/o Supervalu Birr. Next week's jackpot is €16,600 with star prize of €19,600. Draw will take place in Molloy's Connaught St. Thank for all your continued support. Birr Town's AGM The AGM of Birr Town FC will take place in the Clubhouse on Wednesday 18th July at 8p.m. sharp. All are welcome. Training Training for Birr Town FC senior players continues on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 7.30p.m. Marian Hall Notes Bingo; The jackpot on Friday night last was not won. The jackpot this Friday night is €3,000 on 47 calls with a top game of €300 if not won. Calling takes place at 8.30pm sharp. Progressive 25 Drive; Top prize was won on 12 games by Pat Heenan and Ramie Horan. One pair had 11 games Tommy Carroll and Pat Tumulty while three pairs had lucky 10s. They were Liam and Marguerite Shanahan, Bertie Coleman and Tim Hough, Carmel Nugent and Michael Stephens. The last game was won by Joe Kerins and Frank Mulvey while the table prize went to Tim Carey and Johnny Kinahan. Raffle prize winners were Bessie Fleury, Mary Larkin and Bertie Coleman. Cards continue on Sunday night with a jackpot of €100 on 14 games. Starts at 9p.m. sharp. Australian Challenge Match Melbourne Shamrocks Hurling Club from Australia will be playing St Rynagh's in a challenge match in Banagher on Friday July 20th at 6.30p.m. Birr Citizens Information Services Birr Citizens Information Services, The Courtyard Office Centre, Emmet St, Birr, call 05791 21017. Normal opening hours are - Monday to Friday 10a.m.-2p.m. Currently they have information from the Health & Safety Authority, the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Scheme, and Third Level grant application forms. Lo-Call 1890 777121 or visit www.citizensinformation.ie. GROW A Grow Group meets each week in Birr. If you are someone who experienced depression or anxiety attacks or who is simply in need of company do come along. You will have an opportunity to meet others, share your problems in confidence, get support and make new friends. All are welcome. No fees. Meetings take place in the Community Health Centre, The Convent, Wilmer Road, Birr at 7.30p.m. every Tuesday. For further information please contact Ruairi on (087) 2510965 or (057) 9351124. Website:www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474. Dochas The Offaly Cancer Support Group is based at Teach Dóchas, Offaly St., Tullamore. They offer support to people living with cancer and their families and carers. Opening hours: Monday to Friday 10a.m to 2p.m. Telephone 05793 28268 email: dochasoffaly@eircom.net. Farmers Vegetable Market Farmers Vegetable Market will be in the Marian Hall Car Park every Saturday between 10a.m.-5p.m. (Advert) Birr Resource Centre The Birr Resource Centre and Community Facility provides affordable meeting space for community and voluntary groups. Also free typing service available to local groups. More details please phone 05791 21912 or call into office in Londis Car Park. Open Monday to Thursday 9.30a.m. to 1.30p.m. and Friday 9.30a.m. to 1p.m. Birr Parent/Toddler Group Birr Parent/Toddler Group will be closed for the month of July. They will re-open on Tuesday August 7th next. Youth Disco A youth disco will be held every Thursday until July 26th at Melba's Nite Club, Birr. 8p.m.-10p.m. Admission €5. 10-16 year olds welcome. All proceeds go to the Midland branch of Cystic Fibrosis.

19/7/2007
Festival Seeks Council's Support

Birr Vintage Week Committee are seeking Birr Town Council's support regarding funding towards their public liability insurance bill, which has greatly increased this year, Cllr Ann Spain said at the monthly meeting of Birr Town Council. A figure of €1,500 was requested by the Committee. 'It is acknowledged that Birr Town Council are always supportive of the festival which attracts a wide audience both locally and nationwide and encourages tourism in to the town for the week long festival,' she said. 'As a member of Birr Vintage Week Committee I see first hand the committee’s hard work in organising the festival. The months before the run up to the festival are compact. This Voluntary Committee and previous Committee Members who give their time and enthusiasm to such a successful yearly event are to be complimented,' said Cllr Spain.

19/7/2007
Tributes Paid To Retiring Court Clerk

At last week's sitting of Birr court tribute was paid by the Judge Michael Reilly, the Solicitors and Officers of Birr District Court to Mr John Buckley who is officially retiring as District Court Clerk. Mr Buckley will be sitting as Court Clerk for last time on July 27th in Nenagh. Judge Reilly stated that Mr Buckley had served as court clerk since 1971, and had served with distinction throughout that 36 year period: 'Mr Buckley has been a court clerk since 1971 serving with distinction under several other judges including amongst others Willie O'Connor, Michael McGrath, Oliver Macklin and Jim Sullivan.' On a personal note Judge Reilly commented that he would count Mr Buckley not just as a excellent professional colleague but also as a very close friend. Paying tribute to Mr Buckley on behalf of the Solicitors of Birr was Ms Bernadette Owens. Ms Owens stated that she had been asked and was delighted to say a few words on behalf of the solicitors of Birr who have known and worked with Mr Buckley over the many years of his distinguished career and service as Court Clerk. She stated that unequivocally Mr Buckley was the cornerstone of the Court. 'He has served loyally and unflinchingly proving to be a lynchpin of the District Court.' Ms Owens added that Mr Buckley's attitude and efficiency fostered a professional working of the court that has been unsurpassed. 'The hallmark of Mr Buckley's tenure as court clerk has also been his vast and endless knowledge of the working of the District Court. Mr Buckley has had to embrace numerous changes over the years in practice and procedure but has always done so with the utmost professional enthusiasm.' Ms Owens stressed the point of gratitude in this regard on behalf of numerous solicitors, both young and old, who down through the years have been guided by the expert knowledge of the Mr Buckley. 'We have all tapped into his bottomless well of knowledge at some point.' On a personal noted she added, 'John's humanity is unquestioned, of that I am quite certain. He is so courteous to members of the public and he has shown his excellence when serving at the coalface of Family cases.' Ms Owens added that there were certainly many memories to fill pages of Mr Buckley's Diary., 'As Oscar Wilde said "Memory is the Diary that we all carry about with us".' Garda Superintendent Morris Regan re-iterated Ms Owens' sentiments adding on behalf of the Gardai, 'It has been people like yourself Mr Buckley that have been a great inspiration for the Gardai who you have always been an excellent assistance to.' On behalf of the Probation Service (Athlone), Ms Alna Galvin stated that they have always found Mr Buckley to be very diligent and always a gentleman. In acknowledgement of the praise bestowed on him by his colleagues and friends Mr Buckley remarked 'I can assure that it has always been a pleasure to come to Birr. I appreciate all of the comments that were made here on my behalf today and I shall be opening that Diary you spoke of occasionally.'

19/7/2007
Birr Community Games

Silver Medal For Hurling Congratulations to the Birr U-11 hurling team who managed to come away with a silver medal in the Leinster finals held in Carlow recently. Earlier in the day they met Portmarnock and the team gave a very impressive performance and Birr were easy winners. The boys had just a couple of hours to recover for the final against Kilkenny. The match started well and at half time there wasn't much in it 2-3 to 2-1 the score. However, Kilkenny got two quick goals early in the second half, which was a blow to Birr. Old rivalries between Offaly and Kilkenny make for a very exciting match. Kilkenny took the gold medal in the end 5-9 to 4-3 the score. Birr were disappointed, however many of the team will be underage again next year. Well done to the team - Craig Taylor, Ruairi Claffey, Cormac Kenny, Darragh Pilkington, Eoghan Cahill, Stefan Shalloo, Shane Donovan, Cathal Kirwan, Daniel O'Meara, Dylan Quegan, Mark Haines, Dylan Watkins, Jack Regan, Rian Dempsey, Ronan Murphy, Kenneth Taylor, Brian Hynes, Mark Nolan, Conor Daly, T.J. Talbot. Many thanks to their coaches and managers Gary Cahill, Ollie Nolan and Noel Russell. Athletics Athletic training for those children who have qualified for Mosney will resume this Wednesday, July 18th at 7.30p.m. in Highfield Soccer grounds.

19/7/2007
The Chestnut Hosts Aces Wild

On Saturday July 21th the Chestnut, Birr, presents the highly acclaimed rockabilly band Aces Wild. Admission €7 plus fancy dress competition. From the Liffey Delta, Aces Wild are a staple of the Dublin rockabilly scene. This hot rockin' quartet play traditional rockabilly with that shot of Aces Wild magic. With wailin' guitar, dawghouse bass, this band are a hard working outfit playing infectious rockabilly. Aces Wild have just released their long awaited debut album. Called 'Get Gone', the album features 13 tracks of original material steeped in traditional 50s Sun Studios era rockabilly with killer riffs and infectious grooves. Popular in the 1950s - Elvis - with a revival in the early 1980s - Shakin Stevens - it has endured to the present. The Chestnut is also having a fancy dress competition for best dressed rockabilly. The look ranges for boys from Teddy boy, animal print to motorcyle greased back hair. For girls poodle skirts to fishnets and capri pants! It's going to be one of the best nights of the summer !!!!

19/7/2007
Ballet Ireland Bring Choreographic Showcase To Birr

Ballet Ireland bring their annual Choreographic Showcase to Birr Theatre & Arts Centre on Friday 27th July at 8p.m. While just a century ago, a choreographer was considered simply ‘he or she (normally ‘he’) responsible for putting various dances together’, today’s great choreographers are recognised as true artists and visionaries. Great choreographers have a physical language and style of their own, and often one that is instantly recognisable. But choreographers aren’t just are, they develop. Ballet Ireland’s annual choreographic showcase and the ensuing showcase performances are important events on Ballet Ireland’s calendar. Through the platform, aspiring young choreographers are given time and encouragement to develop their ideas. They are able to work with professional dancers, are provided with studio and rehearsal facilities and finally, their work is presented to the public in a thorough and professional setting. Like all art forms, ballet needs to be constantly developing, but in a discipline so firmly rooted in tradition, this development needs to be carefully nurtured. A process of analysis, re-thought and re-creation of existing work is one way in which this development can take place and another way is through innovation, new thought and new choreography. By encouraging young artists to explore the world of making dance in an atmosphere conducive to inspiration and creativity, Ballet Ireland remains at the vanguard of the development of ballet in Ireland. This professional performance on Friday 27th July at 8p.m. will also include two pieces taken from Ballet Ireland’s main repertoire, Bamboo Spring and Irish Rhapsody with music by Charles Villiers Stanford. It promises to be an evening packed with surprises and innovation together with more traditional beauty and grace! The box office will be open: Monday-Friday from 1p.m.–5.30p.m. (057) 9122911. www.birrtheatre.com for full details of all events.

19/7/2007
Birr Camogie Notes

Our U-16 team played their first game in this year's championship on Sunday morning in Crinkle against Lusmagh and came away with a very good victory after some fine displays from our girls. Siobhan Rogers, Emily Quinlan cleared the backs with ease and Julie Stephens and Jane McCarthy along with Orlagh Kirwan picked off some lovely scores. Dearbhaile Sheils got a lovely goal when introduced in the second half. Eimear Teehan did well also. Shauna Carroll had little to do in the goals and was brought out field with ten minutes to go and got a lovely point. Team: Shanna Carroll, Jane Ryan, Emily Quinlan, Laura Roddy, Siobhan Rogers, Gillian Molloy, Sarah Pilkington, Julie Stephens, Kelly Ann Milne, Caroline Soupe, Jane McCarthy, Katie Masterson, Orlagh Kirwan, Tracey Milne, Rebecca Hoctor. Subs: Dearbhaile Sheils (for Sarah Pilkington); Eimear Teehan (for Tracy Milne). Our U-12's play Lusmagh on Sunday evening, 22nd July at 6p.m. in Lusmagh. The seniors play after them at 7.30p.m. in Lusmagh also. Our U-8's and 10's are playing in a Go Games Blitz hosted by St. Cillian's in Carrig on Saturday, 28th July. Training continues at the usual times this week.

19/7/2007
Golfing In The Glenns

Justin Kehoe Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to our very popular member Justin on qualifying for the British Open at Carnoustie. We are delighted for Justin who is one of the most pleasant and unassuming members of our club. All those hours of practice have obviously paid off and Carnoustie should not faze him. Kevin McGrath, professional at Birr Golf Driving Range points out that Justin has a very good short game, is an excellent putter and cool under pressure. Having won the South of Ireland and the World Colleges Strokeplay Justin will not be put off by the distinguished company. Both Tiger Woods and Tom Lehman feel that the course is not as treacherous as in 1999 when it was referred to as ‘Carnasty.’ Three interesting scores from that year at the end of the second round were: Singh +19, Mediate +13, Garcia +30. Famous winners at Carnoustie were Ben Hogan in 1953, Gary Player in 1968 and Tom Watson in 1975. Who will forget Van de Velde in 1999 with the title in his grasp on the 18th? Golf has been played there since 1527. What a great honour it is to have Shinrone’s famous son taking his place up there with the greats of golf. Go neiri go geal leat, Justin. For Your Diary Wednesday 18th July; First day of Lady Captain Yvonne Boland’s Prize. Thursday 19th July; 9.00a.m.–9.30a.m. Juveniles. Sponsor Michael McGarry. Thursday 20th July; 10.30a.m.– 11.00a.m. Seniors. Friday 21st July; St, Rynagh’s GAA Classic. Contact: Willie Gavin. Saturday 22nd July; 9.00a.m. Societies. Saturday 23rd July; 3.00p.m.–4.00p.m. Provincial Towns. Birr v Gowran. Four Home. Five Away. Sunday 24th July; Final of Lady Captain’s Prize. Also 9–Hole after 2 pm. For ladies and men. 18-Hole Putting Competition sponsored by Allure of Banagher. Tuesday 24th July; Open Stableford. Full catering available. Wednesday 25th July; Ex-Captains and Presidents. Saturday/Sunday 11th/12th August; Captain Billy Donlon’s Prize. (First Round). Timesheet in locker room. Ladies A great turnout of ladies on Wednesday evening for the 9-Hole Scramble, despite the rain. The prizes sponsored by Zandra Fashions and Cathal McIntyre were presented later in the evening. Lady Captain Yvonne Boland’s prize is on Wednesday 18th and Sunday 19th. Bookies are open for business so get your bet on. Allure of Banagher are sponsoring a putting competition and on Sunday there will be a 9-Hole competition for Ladies and Men. All wish our popular Lady Captain Yvonne the very best of luck on her two days and we hope the sun shines The Miele team met Tubbercurry on Monday 16th. Home: Ann Kenny/Tori Baker, Ann Frawley/Kathleen Doorley. Away: Gemma Butler/Mary Grennan, Martina O’Brien/Mary Ryan. Manager is Mary O’Gorman. Best of luck to all. Winners of Wednesday Scramble were: 1st Jo Conniffe, Carmel Ryan, Vera Smyth. 2nd Gail Kelly, Mary Bolger, Rita Delaney. Results Tuesday 10th July; Open Stableford. 1st John Pilkington (12) 43 pts. 2nd Stephen Brummell (7) 39 pts. Gross: John O’Donnell (4) Dundrum. 38 pts. 3rd Robert Ryland (6) 37 pts. Sunday 15th July; Austin Gleeson Mixed. 1st Aileen Watkins/Enda Carroll 62.5 nett. 2nd Mary Grennan/Tony McCormack 65 nett. 3rd Colette O’Brien/ Michael Stephens 65 nett. Birr GAA Classic; 1st Michael Yates, John Yates, Fintan Dolan, Jonathan Kelly 97 pts. 2nd David Hughes, Adrian Sheils, Leslie O’Meara, Brian Grogan 91 pts. 3rd Brendan O’Carroll, John Fleury, Patrick Hogan, Frank Kenny 89 pts. Juveniles; 18-Hole. 1st Robert Lynch (22) 41 pts. 2nd Stephen Brummell (6) 39 pts. 3rd Hugh Connolly (18) 38 pts. 9-Hole. 1st Aaron Flanagan. 2nd Paul Daly. Interclub Matches This Saturday our in form Provincial team takes on Gowran Park, last year’s winners. Our team has had a very successful run so far and are quietly confident facing the Kilkenny outfit. Paschal Troy and Joe Slevin have a tough managerial task but they have a strongly motivated team that will not give in easily. Best of luck to all. On Sunday the Tudenham Cup team defeated the holders, Mullingar by 3/2. The matches were closely contested with the three home pairings leading the way. Well done to Seamie Breen/ K.P. Kelly, Michael Yates/Jonathan Kelly and Albert Kelly/Leslie O’Meara at home. Robbie Shiels/Fintan Dolan and Pat Madden/P.J. Lowry were away. Michael Yates was their manager. Next match is against Delvin.

12/7/2007
Minister Opens Birr Leisure Centre

The official opening of the new extension to the Birr Swimming Pool and Leisure Centre took place amidst balmy sunshine and enthusiastic crowds last Saturday afternoon. Officially opening the outstanding new facilities was the Tanaiste and Minister for Finance, Mr Brian Cowen. The new state of the art facilities represent the culmination of many years of effort and hard work by the Swimming Pool committees and the fervent support of the local community. Some light refreshments and musical entertainment was provided to mark the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, Cllr John Carroll, who previously chaired the swimming pool committee, enthusiastically welcomed the successful completion of the €2.3 million investment in the new facility. The new facility includes a jacuzzi which takes pride of place in the extension to the south together with steam room and sauna room, each served with their own showering facility. The new extension includes a new under floor heating with all the under ground piping having been completely replaced and refitted. New tiling has been installed all over and the roof has been fully up-graded. At the entrance there is a beautiful foyer space with views of the pool where parents can keep an eye on children in the newly installed toddlers pool. There also is a new changing village, showers, toilets and lockers. Upstairs also contains a multi purpose room and two treatment rooms. There is the new addition of the state of the art gymnasium with self contained changing rooms, showers etc, - this provides of view over looking the swimming pool. The East side of the new extension incorporates new staff and managment facilities, a first aid room and storage and mechanical room. Cllr Carroll commented that there has been a huge undertaking by a voluntary committee who managed to successfully prioritise the pool for grant aid from the government. €1.3 million of the necessary finance came from the Department of Arts & Tourism, €360,000 from national lottery funds, €280,000 from Offaly County Council. €115,000 came from Birr Town Council and the remaining €240,000 from local funding including €50,000 from Birr Credit Union and many generous local benefactors. Cllr Carroll added that less €60,000 now remains outstanding. An ecumenical blessing of the facilities took place from local clergy as Cllr Carroll invited Very Rev Tony Cahir, PP, Rev. Ruth Gill, Rev. Colin Gracie to perform the honours. On a poignant note following the blessing Cllr Carroll asked the gathering to remember all those involved in the pool down through the years including the founding committee. 'We also today remember Vincent Carney who died tragically in this pool and whose anniversary is tomorrow the 8th July and we are both happy and delighted that his parents have come along today to join with us in remembering him. Down through the years the committee have always been driven to succeed here in honour of his memory.' A number of trees were planted at the end of the opening ceremony to commemorate and recognise the work that was carried out by the founding committee, a second tree was planted in memory of Vincent Carney and a third tree to mark the opening of the new extension. As Cllr Carroll remarked, 'Today is a joyous occasion and celebration. However this joy has been marked with some sorrow as today our chairman Pat Connolly has laid his father to rest. We very much appreciate his presence here today.' Vice-chairman of the committee Cronan Grennan re-iterated Cllr Carroll's sentiments adding, 'the seeds of the success here today were sown by the foresight of the founding committee members and subsequent committees from the late 60s onwards.' Mr Grennan commented, 'we know that there is a huge task ahead in the management of these facilities but we all have complete faith in the management team. I must mention one individual in particular whose efforts and commitment have ensured the successful extension of these facilities came to fruition. That we are here today is a testament in particular to the dedication of Cllr John Carroll.' He also paid tribute to the work of Marian Carter and her staff, whom he complimented for the hard work they have continously put in. On a final note he stated, 'to you the patrons. I hope that you enjoy what is available here. This is your centre, owned by the people of Birr, run by the people of Birr, for the people of Birr and its environs. Be proud and enjoy.' Cllr Eamon Dooley, Chairman Offaly County Council, said 'I am delighted that Offaly County Council could be associated with the successful launch of the this extension here today. I recognise that John Carroll was probably the driving force behind this. He had the dreams for this extension here today and I am delighted that it has come to fruition.' Birr Town Council Chairperson Cllr Michael Loughnane said 'looking at this building here today you would be forgiven for thinking that it was a brand new building rather than an extension and upgrade. I think it is great value for money and I would like to thank the Department of Sport who ensured the money for this development.' Cllr Loughnane paid special thanks to Swimming Pool committee Chairperson, Pat Connolly. 'Pat has been a friend of our family down through the years and in particular in recent weeks. I would also like to sympathise with him on the death of his father.' Cllr Loughnane expressed his delight with the fact that a local builder, Paddy McIntyre was commissioned to undertake the building of the extension. 'Keep business in the town if you can at all and Paddy employed local contractors meaning that money was going back into local jobs. The quality of the work is a credit to all involved and indeed to the design team headed up by Project Manager Chris Murphy and his team.' Cllr Carroll joined Cllr Loughnane in complimenting the workmanship adding, 'we were trying to get as much value as we could for as little money as we could. In other words, we wanted a Rolls Royce but we only wanted to pay the price of Mini. There is as good a value of money here as any project done anywhere in the country.' Cllr Carroll introducing the Swimming Pool committee Chairman Pat Connolly extended again their appreciation for his presence at the opening ceremony. 'Your presence here today is very much appreciated by the committee. While I have got praise here today I believe that Pat is the leader of that team as Chairperson who put in a huge amount of work and commitment.' An emotional Chairperson Pat Connolly stated that he was most proud to witness the successful completion of the Birr Swimming Pool extension. 'Ladies and Gentlemen I am very proud to be here, I couldn't let it pass and I know that my father was very interested in this project and was very proud of my involvment here as Chairman. We talked many times about the progress of the work here and he always lent his support and confidence. I would like to thank Minister Cowen for his unwavering support. Minister Cowen is a man of his word and we appreciate that very much.' Mr Connolly joined with his colleagues in thanking the numerous persons, Councillors, staff, builders, the local community and all those involved in the project's delivery. Officially opening the Birr Swimming Pool Leisure Centre the Tanaiste and Minister for Finance, Mr Brian Cowen announced, 'Can I first of all say that this is a tremendous day for the town of Birr and I think great credit is due to everyone who has been associated with bringing this project to a successful conclusion.' He added, 'I think quite rightly tribute has been paid to the foresight of the original founding committee who had the vision of bringing a swimming pool to the town of Birr. And quite rightly tribute has been paid to those persons on various committees down through the years who in far less prosperous times kept the swimming pool open.' Minister Cowen highlighted the fact that only ten years ago there was barely €20 million spent on leisure facilities nationally and there is now almost 15 times that figure to nearly €300 million. The Minister pointed that without voluntary effort and without a voluntary committee and the people who having been working here on a fulltime, 'without that sort of effort it is not possible to run a local amenity centres such as this. I commend the town of Birr.' On final note before the cutting of the ribbon to officially open the facility Minister Cowen concluded with the remarks, 'It is great to see this day come. I recall some years ago coming around to have a look at the progress here and certainly there was a lot of work to be done and it required a lot of co-operation amongst a number of people who showed great faith in their own ability to make sure that this could happen. I think that the local community now can best repay that effort by ensuring that this facility has its full use by as many people as possible - not only of the swimming but also of the gymnasium facilities that are necessary now to make these projects work on a viable commercial basis.'

12/7/2007
Birr Curate To Be New PP In Clonlara

Birr curate Rev. Pat Greed will be leaving the parish after six years to take up a new appointment as Parish Priest in Clonlara, Co. Clare at the end of the month. Most Rev. Willie Walsh, Bishop of Killaloe, announced the annual clerical appointments earlier this week and these appointments take effect from Friday 27th July 2007. Fr Greed will be replaced in Birr by Rev. David Carroll, who is currently curate in Nenagh and he will be replaced there by Rev. Kevin O’ Boyle (SSC), Member of St. Columban’s Missionary Society. Lorrha native Rev. Colm Hogan, currently curate in Shannon, who servied in Roscrea prior to that, is to join St. James Missionary Society on temporary mission to Ecuador. The Killaloe diocese is also to get a Chaplain to the Polish community in the diocese with the appointment of Rev Tomasz Daukszewicz, Diocese of Elk, Poland. Five parishes will have a change of Parish Priest/ Administrator / Priest in Residence. Theses parishes are: Clonlara, Corofin, Co. Clare; Crusheen, Co. Clare; Bodyke-Tuamgraney, Co. Clare; Feakle, Co. Clare. Fr. Pat Greed is a native of Clonakenny, Roscrea. He studied for the priesthood at St. Patrick’s College, Thurles and was ordained in the Cathedral, Thurles in 1988. After ordination he assisted with the Irish Chaplaincy in London before taking up an appointment as Assistant Priest in Doonbeg, Co. Clare. From 1989 until 1992 he served in Kilkee, Co. Clare. He was then appointed to the staff of St. Flannan’s College, Ennis, where he served until his appointment as curate in Birr in July 2001. Speaking on the occasion of the annual clerical appointments in the diocese Bishop Walsh said 'the Killaloe Diocesan Pastoral Plan 2004 spoke of moving towards a new model of Church where priests and laity work together in a collaborative way. While this model of Church is based on our common responsibilities arising from our Baptism, moving towards it becomes all the more imperative as the number of priests available for pastoral ministry in the diocese becomes smaller.' 'The Lenten Pastoral earlier this year (“Hope in a Changing Church”) focussing on the aging profile of our priests further emphasised the need for laity to take their rightful place in the life of the local church. This need is reflected in the appointment of Fr. Brendan Quinlivan as priest in residence in Feakle. While residing in Feakle he will have duties across the three parishes of Feakle, Killenana-Flagmount and Bodyke-Tuamgraney. 'Earlier this year a new Diocesan Pastoral Council was established to oversee the continued implementation of the Pastoral Plan,' said Bishop Walsh. As of July 2007 there are 124 priests belonging to the Killaloe diocese. 94 are aged under 75 years and 46 are aged under 55 years. 96 Killaloe priests are in fulltime parish ministry (Parish Priests and Curates), five Killaloe priests are engaged in fulltime school chaplaincy, teaching, diocesan administration and other pastoral work, nine Killaloe Priests serve overseas in various ministries and nine Killaloe priests are fully retired from active ministry. In addition to the above numbers of priests of the diocese of Killaloe there are eight priests from other dioceses or religious congregations serving as priests in parishes of the diocese at present. The diocese also benefits from the ministry of the clergy based at the Franciscan Friary in Ennis and the Cistercian Monastery at Mount St. Joseph’s, Roscrea. The diocese of Killaloe at present has one student studying for priesthood in seminary. In this coming September they expect to have two further students preparing for priesthood. Total Catholic Population of the diocese is 114,000 approx and the total number of Parishes in the diocese is 58. Referring to Pastoral Care of Immigrants Bishop Walsh said 'the increasing number of immigrants coming to the diocese in recent years has been very significant. In particular we now have a Polish population estimated to be in the region of 3,500. Their liturgical needs have been served by visiting Polish Priests up to this point. The diocese will now have a resident Polish priest based in Ennis who will serve the Polish Community across the diocese. We welcome Fr. Tomasz Daukszewicz from the diocese of Elk in Poland.' 'While we welcome Fr. Tomasz among us, we bid farewell to Fr. Colm Hogan, curate in Shannon, who leaves us to work with St. James’ Missionary Society in Ecuador. Colm is the third priest of the diocese who will serve in South America. Frs Tony Casey and Des Hillary are already working with the Irish Columbans in Peru. This missionary outreach at a time when the number of priests available to us is decreasing is a statement of our commitment to the wider church where the need is greater than ours,' said Bishop Walsh. The following is the full list of clerical appointments in the diocese, which takes effect from Friday 27th July. V. Rev. Brendan Cleary, Parish Priest, Clonlara, Co. Clare to be Assistant Priest, Clonlara. V. Rev. Patrick Carmody, Parish Priest, Cooraclare, Co. Clare, to be temporary Administrator, Cooraclare. V. Rev. John O’ Donovan, St. Catherine of Siena Parish, Clearwater, Florida, to retire from active ministry. Rev. Patrick Greed, Curate, Birr, to be Parish Priest, Clonlara. Rev. Ger Nash, Imeall Bóirne Parishes, Priest in Residence, Corofin, Co. Clare to be Priest in Residence, Crusheen, Co. Clare. Rev. Damien Nolan, Curate, Ennis to Imeall Bóirne Parishes, to be Priest in Residence at Corofin with continuing chaplaincy work at St. Flannan’s College and with ACCORD. Rev. Brendan Quinlivan, Adm., Bodyke-Tuamgraney, to be Priest in Residence at Feakle with responsibilities in Killanena –Flagmount and Bodyke-Tuamgraney. Rev. Maurice Harmon, Primary School Catechetical Team to be Priest in Residence in Bodyke-Tuamgraney. Rev. Colm Hogan, Curate, Shannon to be a member of St. James Missionary Society on temporary mission to Ecuador. Rev. David Carroll, Curate, Nenagh to be Curate, Birr. Rev. Kevin O’ Boyle (SSC), Member of St. Columban’s Missionary Society to be Curate, Nenagh. Rev Tomasz Daukszewicz, Diocese of Elk, Poland to be Chaplain to the Polish community in the diocese of Killaloe and to reside in the parish of Ennis.

12/7/2007
NRA Advocating Traffic Lights At Birr Problem Spot

The National Roads Authority is now advocating the erection of traffic lights at a problem spot in Birr. The residents of Seffin have been complaining for many years about the danger of living in the area. They say there is a strong possibility of pedestrians being knocked down by traffic when crossing the road at Seffin, a problem that is exacerbated by the blind spot created by the rise in the road. Cllr Michael Campbell raised this issue once again during the July meeting of Birr Town Council, an issue that he called a 'hoary old chestnut' as it has been brought up so many times by the Council. He said he had in his possession a letter from the NRA agreeing to the introduction of 'synchronised traffic signals' at Seffin with an aim of solving the problem there. He said that the Council should now act immediately on this matter and erect traffic lights. The Director of Services, Michael Roche, did not agree with Cllr Campbell. He said that traffic lights would increase the traffic congestion on the road. 'It may seem that the solution to this problem is an easy one but the matter is more difficult than it first appears.' Cllr Campbell replied that this issue has been going on for at least 30 years 'and during that time the blame was always laid at the door of the NRA. The County Managers down the years used to say that the NRA was blocking the erection of traffic calming at Seffin. But now the NRA is not blocking anything, so what is the problem? 'I am willing to create a delay in traffic if it means saving lives. The people in Seffin have been crying out for 30 years for traffic lights at Seffin. Now the matter is firmly back in the laps of the Council.' Cllr John Carroll remarked that he has a problem with traffic lights and he feels that a roundabout would be a better solution. He pointed out that it had proven difficult to get roundabouts at Wilmer Road / John's Mall junction and at Syngefield / Kinnitty Road junction, but eventually the roundabouts had been created and have been great successes. 'It is a daily nightmare for the people living in Seffin,' commented Cllr Campbell. 'We are frustrated with this,' remarked Cllr Michael Loughnane, Chairman. 'It is the most frustrating aspect of this Council.' The Director of Services pointed out that 'at no stage did the Council ever say that the problem lay with the NRA being against traffic calming.' 'I see old ladies standing on the pavement in Seffin,' commented Cllr Denis Sheils, 'terrified because they are trying to cross the road. I looked at old files recently and saw that this matter was first raised in this Council chamber in 1969. We have to once and for all solve this issue this year.' Cllr Loughnane felt that a roundabout might prove to be the answer to the problem. In other business, Cllr Sheils said a Tidy Towns competition will be held during the week after Vintage Week and there will be an awards night in September. There will be awards for Best Kept Street, Best Garden, Best New Street, and Best Shop Window. The area engineer said it is hoped to complete the new cemetery during the Autumn. He said work on this has been seriously hampered by the poor weather. Cllr Seamus Fanneran said there are a number of chimneys in Scurragh which are leaking. Cllr Noel Russell pointed out that park furniture needs to be painted and some of the Castle's trees need to be made safer. 'If there is any wind at all then branches are falling down onto the road.' Cllr Campbell remarked that there has been a lot of vandalism in recent weeks in the girls' primary school, which has 'become a drinking den at the weekends.' He said trees need to be removed at the school and this may improve matters. He said the Superintendent commented recently that the Gardaí will be going down regularly to the school with the aim of catching the vandals and drinkers. He added that speeding traffic is another large problem and he believed rumble strips would be the solution. The Director of Services didn't think rumble strips would work: 'They are noisy and don't slow down the serious offenders.' Cllr Noel Russell pointed out that on Pound Street drivers are speeding the long length of the street in order to reach the green traffic lights in time. Cllr Sheils said one of the Market Square hanging baskets, with flowers in it, was vandalised during the weekend. Cllr Seán Doorley said that two cars have been abandoned at Cappaneale and are full of tyres and shoes. Cllr Sheils commented that there is too much signage around the town. Cllr Fanneran said there are 19 signs on one pole. Cllr Carroll agreed, saying that the signage's look doesn't reflect the town's heritage status. Cllr Ann Spain asked that the loose cobblelocking beside the Post Office be repaired and also pointed out that there are problems with chimneys in Bengal Lodge. Mary Gaughran, Town Clerk, said a tourist information desk will be opened in the Civic Offices during the next couple of weeks and Shannon Development will be erecting a tourist information kiosk in Emmet Square. She said that people can deal with their motor tax on-line in the library in Birr Civic Offices. Cllr Carroll pointed out that that online system was available in the old Birr Library. Cllr Campbell supported Cllr Carroll: 'We are not looking for five days a week, rather a couple of half-days per week. A lot of people don't want to deal with computers but rather with real people.' The Town Clerk and Chairman said they will look into the possibility of giving €1,500 to Birr Vintage Week. The festival's public liability insurance has gone up this year and sponsorship is down. Cllr Seán Doorley asked the Council to assist in finding a site for a community creche.

12/7/2007
Birr Teacher Injured In Staircase Collapse At Museum

A Birr Primary School teacher was among a number of people injured with a granite staircase collapsed at the National History Museum in Dublin last Thursday. Therese Haverty, a teacher at Birr Girl's Primary school was amongst the 11 victims who were on the 150 years old granite staircase at the Natural History Museum that had stood the test of time until it came inexplicably crashing down last Thursday morning. This week she recalled her ordeal and also her lucky escape in only sustaining minor injuries in the accident. 'I just remember being about five steps up on the staircase when it completely gave way. It felt like we were falling for a long time. It was as though everything was in slow motion. I remember a muffled sound and falling forward into thin air as the staircase gave way beneath.' Despite some reports claiming pandemonium Therese recalled that there was a eerie moment of silence due, she said, most probably to the initial shock of what had just occurred. 'Everyone was in shock, but not too long after the collapse I remember one guy screaming out in agony.' Therese learned latter that that particular individual had smashed both his ankles. Therese commented that he either had broken his ankles in the fall itself or had sustained the injury when parts of the large granite staircase crashed into him. After the fall Therese recalled feeling a good deal of pain about her chest and there was good deal of bleeding from a cut on her leg. 'Apart from that,' she said, 'I guess I was lucky only to suffer bruising on my legs and arms. I guess I was both lucky and unlucky in a way.' Her friend, Therese noted, was the most fortunate as she managed to avoid the incident entirely. 'As it turned out she happened to be only a few feet behind from me on the safety of the landing.' Therese commented that she was up about five steps when it staircase gave way. 'I think the first step remained intact. I don't know if it all came away in one piece but some of the steps did seem to break-off individually. I do know that most people fell down precariously on their backs.' 'I was one of the few who fell forwards which I suppose must have been lucky. Everyone received a neck brace and were carried out on stretchers. We were all given oxygen. I think the emergency services were taking as many precautions against back and neck injuries as possible. I do know that one girl sustained serious back injuries with a couple crushed vertebrae.' Therese was at the Natural History Museum as part of a five day Summer Science course for Primary school teachers. She and a friend that she had not seen since they were at college had just spent the first three days of the course with a group of about 20 other Primary school teachers at Dublin Zoo. The course involved lectures and talks about the Science of living things. The group consisted nearly entirely of Irish Primary school teachers except for one individual who was a Brazilian music teacher. They were scheduled to have a further two days in the National History Museum. 'We were doing ecology, ornithology and getting talks and tours - it was all very pleasant and quite fascinating.' Therese recalled that it quite ironic, as it turned out, that one of the lecturers who had been giving them a tour of the museum had been telling them about its planned refurbishment. 'He was telling us that they were going to shut the museum for two years. They were going to undertake a number of small refurbishments to the museum such as making it more wheelchair accessible. He was telling us that the foundation of the building was quite shallow and something may need to be done with it. But above all he was explaining that whatever refurbishments they did carry out they would ensure that they maintained the aesthetics of the museum.' Therese remembered that they started their lectures and tours of the museum at around 10a.m. on Thursday morning. The incident itself occurred at about 11.30a.m. after a tea break. 'We were going up stairs to do an activity. We had gone up the main stairs and onto the main landing and then proceeded up a second flight when the whole thing collapsed.' She recalled that the ambulance crew arrived very quickly and they were tending people with first aid. Therese was brought to St. Vincent's Hospital. Therese continued, 'I have bruises everywhere but luckily nothing is broken. I know there is one guy with two broken ankles and a girl with a serious spinal injury. I guess that we fell about 20 feet of stairs and it was extremely fortunate that nobody was underneath at the time.' Therese explained to the 'Tribune' that this stairs was the original entrance to the museum and this stairs wasn't used by the public anymore. The only people permitted to use the staircase were staff and teachers such as themselves on the course. In the aftermath Therese recalled that the museum was cleared out straight away. 'We were all very well treated and looked after by the ambulance crew.' Therese was discharged from hospital later that same evening. 'When I was in hospital a nurse read out a message from the Natural History Museum apologising for what had happened. They sent every person involved in the incident a bunch of flowers and stated they will be getting in contact with us personally.'

12/7/2007
Birr Scouts Celebrate Centenary Of Scouting

This year we celebrate one hundred years of scouting which began with a camp in August 1907 on Brownsea island in Poole harbour England. The camp was organised by Baden Powell and 'Scouting for Boys,' was published in January 1908. Today Scouting has gone from strength to strength here in the midlands and to celebrate the centenary the Birr unit are joining with other groups on their annual camp to Crawfordsburn Co. Down on the 14th July. The following are the final arrangements: Meeting of scouts at 7.30p.m. on Wednesday 11th July in the hall where parents are asked to hand in the completed medical form. Scouts to report to the hall at 6.30p.m. on Friday 13th July with personal gear for camp which will be transported to Roscrea. Departure by bus for Crawfordburn from the Scout Hall at 9a.m. on Saturday 14th July returning to Birr on Sunday the 22nd July at 6p.m. This will conclude the programme for scouting. Boys or girls wishing to join the group who are 11 years and over can contact the leaders in September when recruitment will take place.

12/7/2007
Birr News Digest

Wilmer Tennis Club The Wilmer Tennis Club's Senior Open Week was a great success last week. There was good support from surrounding clubs and some great tennis was played during the week. There was a great spread of prizewinners with the home club picking up a number of the titles. Full report and pictures next week. The annual inter-firms BBQ will take place this Friday July 13th in the Chestnut. Tickets are available from team captains or from Mary Horan or Liz Maloney. The prizes for the inter firms tournament plus the club championships will be presented on the night. This has been a very entertaining and successful night in recent years and this year's promises to be equally successful. Membership is now due and should be paid to treasurer Tory Baker or any committee member as soon as possible. Dates To Remember At St Brendan's Church July 12th: Blessing of graves. Mass in Clonoghill at 7.30p.m. July 15th: Blessing of graves after 9.30a.m. Mass in Carrig. July 29th - Mass for Polish Community at 5.30p.m. Australian Challenge Match Melbourne Shamrocks Hurling Club from Australia will be playing St Rynagh's in a challenge match in Banagher on Friday July 20th at 6.30p.m. Sponsored Cycle 39th annual Birr Vintage Week & Arts Festival Sponsored Cycle from Birr to Kinnitty will be held this Sunday, 15th July. Departs from Kellys, The Green at 4p.m. Refreshments in Kinnitty and BBQ at Kelly's upon return. Get on your bike and join us along the way. Funds raised will go towards the c.€60,000 costs of running your festival. If you wish to sponsor the festival the closing date for acknowledgement in the programme of events is this Thursday at 12 noon. Of course, the festival organisers would be delighted with any donations received over the coming weeks.  Call Festival Info Line: (087) 9226961.   Ballyegan Gardening Club Final note at the end of the first year of our Club is to say a very big thank you to all members and non-members who have supported the Club through the first year. Notably, the committee and members are grateful to all visiting speakers and for the presentations and demonstrations given. Also, the Club extend their thanks to the Hall Committee for the use of the excellent facility. Their AGM took place in June and the Committee were voted in for the new year as follows, Denise Ryan - Chairperson, Fidelma Carroll - Secretary, Marie Marshall - Treasurer, Caroline Corboy - PRO. Each and every month has proven very successful. The last event of the year took place on a very sunny Saturday, 7th July 2007 as the Club took a trip to St Brigid's Garden, Roscahill, Co. Galway. The full bus travelled to Galway and with several pleasant stops took in a guided tour of the Gardens, followed by an excellent organic lunch and then into Galway for a couple of hours shopping, relaxing or generally soaking up the sun in Salthill. Stopping for supper on the way home an exhausted but very happy group arrived home around 10p.m. The trip was a huge success and bodes very well for future trips. The Club would like to strongly recommend to any schools or groups to visit St Brigid's Garden as one of the hidden secrets of Ireland, which is more than well worth a visit. The Club will now take a break and shall resume again in September, 2007 in Ballyegan Hall – meetings will take place on the second Wednesday of each calendar month. New members are always welcome and they look forward to continuing to build on the success of their first year. They look forward to seeing everyone for another year's gardening from September 2007. Host Families Host families are required from July 19th until August 9th in Birr Town. Students will attend school Monday to Friday from 9.30a.m.-4.30p.m. and will have a full day excursion on a Saturday. For details please phone Marie Brady on (087) 4154983. St. Pio Mass St. Pio Mass takes place on Tuesday, 17th July at 7.30p.m. in St Brendan's Church. Rosary at 7.15p.m. Little Pixies Playschool Little Pixies Playschool, Scurragh Community Centre, Birr opening September 11th. Bookings are now being taken. Contact Geraldine (PSPAC), (NCAC), (087) 9890714 or Sybilla (086) 2045309. Early booking essential as only a limited amount of places remaining. Birr Mart Monday July 9th: Bullocks; 2 HER 635 €895; CH 685 €1,095, CH 475 €740; HER 425 €655; CH 580 €910; CH 535 €835; 3 BB 663 €1,050; 5 CH 582 €825; CH 605 €975; SIM 525 €830; CH 330 €615; LIM 555 €890, 2 SIM 393 €685; 3 FR 685 €985. Heifers; CH 410 €625; 2 HER 580 €805; 3 AA 502 €660, SIM 440 €665; CH 315 €495; BB 590 €915; SIM 535 €810; CH 545 €870; 3 LIM 263 €435; SIM 420 €580. Dry Cows; FR 700 €695; FR 630 €720; SIM 715 €680. Sheep Sale: Sheep Sale on Thursday, 5th July 2007. Lambs: €28 to €34 over a kg. Cull Ewes: €25 to €66 per head. Highfield Utd Lotto Numbers drawn in this week's Highfield United lotto were 4, 5, 12, 22. No jackpot winner and five match three winners receive €30, Louis Vaughan, c/o The Swan, Sharon Egan, c/o Mick Halvey, Violet Kelly, c/o Greg Carroll, David Patrick Cotter, c/o Damien Cotter, Kathleen Stones, c/o John Pardy. Next week's draw takes place in Pilkingtons for a jackpot of €4,250. Marian Hall Notes Bingo; The jackpot on Friday night last was not won and the jackpot this Friday night is €3,000 on 47 calls with a top game of €300 if not won. Calling as usual at 8.30p.m. sharp. Progressive 25; Top prize on Sunday night was won on 12 games by Jack Kennedy and Stephen Lonergan. Second on 11 games were Jack Maher and Kieran Melaney. Five pairs had 10 games Kieran Coughlan & Sony Ryan, Tom Carroll & Pat Tumulty, Crissie Hogan and Ena Loughnane, Tony and Mary Larkin, Jimmy Byrne and Jack Ryan. The last game went to Vincent Cordial and Tom Ryan, while Dolores and Mick Ryan won the table prize. Raffle prize winners were Liam Shanahan, Dan Foley and Elsie O'Halloran. Cards continue on Sunday night with a jackpot of €100 on 14 games. Birr Town Lotto Birr Town Soccer lotto's numbers drawn this week were 10, 11, 23, 24 and bonus 1. The prizemoney was €16,200 with €3,000 extra on the bonus €19,200, No jackpot winner. One lucky person matched 3 numbers, Nancy Moody, who won €200. Next week's prizemoney is €16,400 with €3,000 extra on the bonus. The draw is in the Sunrise Inn. Thank you for your support. Birr Town AGM Birr Town FC's AGM will take place on Wednesday 11th July at 8p.m. at the Clubhouse. All members and new intending new members are invited to attend. Training for the new season will commence on Friday 13th July at 7.30p.m. at Woodfield Park. All are welcome to start training with the club on this date. Any information with regards to training please contact John at (087) 4161621. Birr Citizens Information Services Birr Citizens Information Services, The Courtyard Office Centre, Emmet St, Birr, call 05791 21017. Normal opening hours are - Monday to Friday 10a.m.-2p.m. Currently they have information from the Health & Safety Authority, the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Scheme, and Third Level grant application forms. Lo-Call 1890 777121 or visit www.citizensinformation.ie. GROW A Grow Group meets each week in Birr. If you are someone who experienced depression or anxiety attacks or who is simply in need of company do come along. You will have an opportunity to meet others, share your problems in confidence, get support and make new friends. All are welcome. No fees. Meetings take place in the Community Health Centre, The Convent, Wilmer Road, Birr at 7.30p.m. every Tuesday. For further information please contact Ruairi on (087) 2510965 or (057) 9351124. Website:www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474. Dochas The Offaly Cancer Support Group is based at Teach Dóchas, Offaly St., Tullamore. They offer support to people living with cancer and their families and carers. Opening hours: Monday to Friday 10a.m to 2p.m. Telephone 05793 28268 email: dochasoffaly@eircom.net. Farmers Vegetable Market Farmers Vegetable Market will be in the Marian Hall Car Park every Saturday between 10a.m.-5p.m. (Advert) Birr Resource Centre The Birr Resource Centre and Community Facility provides affordable meeting space for community and voluntary groups. Also free typing service available to local groups. More details please phone 05791 21912 or call into office in Londis Car Park. Open Monday to Thursday 9.30a.m. to 1.30p.m. and Friday 9.30a.m. to 1p.m. Birr Parent/Toddler Group Birr Parent/Toddler Group will be closed for the month of July. They will re-open on Tuesday August 7th next. Youth Disco A youth disco will be held every Thursday until July 26th at Melba's Nite Club, Birr. 8p.m.-10p.m. Admission €5. 10-16 year olds welcome. All proceeds go to the Midland branch of Cystic Fibrosis.

12/7/2007
Late Michael Loughnane, Birr

The death of Michael Loughnane, Woodlands Park, Birr recently after a short illness evoked widespread grief not only in Birr but throughout the country. Michael was very well known around Ireland through his involvement in business, politics, the GAA and golf and was a very popular individual wherever he went. Michael had a great personality and his friendliness, good humour and his ability to sit down and chat with people made him welcome in any company. He was always keen to promote Birr and what it has to offer and he was a great ambassador for the town. His death at the comparatively young age of 61 leaves a void in the community that will be hard to be filled. Michael was a member of a prominent Birr family and he was very proud of his roots. He was also very proud of the success of the family businesses including his own Loughnane Centra, Loughnane Concrete (which is run by his brother Seán) and the County Arms Hotel (which is run by another brother, Willie). Loughnane Centra and Filling Station on Tullamore Road was first opened in February 1997 and it was expanded significantly in March 2004. During the last year Michael took a backseat in the business and began to really enjoy his golf. Michael had a great interest in politics and was heavily involved with the Fianna Fail party both locally and nationally. He was a member of Fianna Fáil's National Executive for the last 11 years. The National Executive is basically the Ard Comhairle and Michael attended this on a monthly basis in the Dáil. Meetings are chaired by the Taoiseach. The National Executive deals with national issues, for example the planning of General Election campaigns. Michael was very proud of the fact that his son Michael Junior was elected Chairman of Birr Town Council a few weeks ago during the Council's AGM. Michael Snr was delighted to be able to attend that meeting, which was just over a week before he passed away. He was also Chairman of the Offaly Comhairle Dáil Ceantair (FF), a position that entailed meetings with Minister Brian Cowen, local Cumanns and councillors regarding a range of issues. The current chairman of the Dáil Ceantar is Padraig Boland and he said that the Ceantar had a meeting on Monday July 2nd last and over 100 delegates turned up for it, many of whom paid fond tribute to Michael's work in the Fianna Fáil family over the last 40 years. Michael was also very much involved in the GAA and served as chairman of Birr GAA Club for a number of years. He took great pride is seeing the club win the All-Ireland club title during his term in office and he was a regular attender at matches all over the country. He was one of the driving forces behind the building of the stand at St Brendan's Park in Birr and that will serve as one of his legacies to the club and county. He was also a prominent member of Birr Golf Club. He had been a member of the club for over 50 years and devoted many hours to the development of the Glenns. He was a committee member for over 20 years, captained the club in 1979 and was president in 1992. During his captaincy year, Birr won two major titles; the Provincial Towns' Cup and the prestigious All Ireland Mixed Foursomes in Galway. In recent years he was a trustee of the club and was ever keen to represent the members throughout the region. In a tribute to Michael, the club said, 'He had a deep regard for the traditions of the club, was noted for his generosity and was especially pleased to see the progress of the new course development. Despite his illness he worked tirelessly for the recent classic and spent many hours organising teams and sponsorship. He will be sadly missed by all, but especially by his family and innumerable close friends.' Speaking to The Tribune Michael Loughnane Junior commented that his father 'liked to visit people, drink tea and coffee and chat with them and he often lamented the fact that this kind of sociability was disappearing from Ireland. 'During his recent illness he was delighted to see the many people who came to his house to visit him. 'He never spent a night in hospital and died in his home in Woodlands Park.' During the final weeks he was cared for by his wife Mary, son Michael, daughter in law Anne and Mary's brother John O'Shea. Michael's illness lasted 11 weeks until his death and during that 11 weeks he packed a great deal into his life. 'He enjoyed going for a drive,' said Michael Junior, 'and someone drove him somewhere every day during the 80 days of his illness. We visited such places as Knock, Spanish Point in Clare, and Dublin.' 'He was very proud of his family tradition and took it upon himself during his illness to go around the midlands and take photos of buildings, churches and schools that his own family firm had built since the 1950s. One of these buildings was Gloster Convent which Michael visited five days before his death.' Fianna Fáil Cllr Noel Russell paid tribute to the man he described as 'a larger than life character.' Cllr Russell said Michael had a good word for everyone and would be sadly missed. 'Michael was the person who got me involved in local politics in Birr and he was always very encouraging and gave me great support and advice in the council and in business,' he said. 'As well as being an employer and advisor, he was a friend as well.' He added that Mr Loughnane had contributed greatly to the business community in Birr over the years. All aspects of Michael's life were represented at his Funeral, which was one of the biggest in memory in Birr. The Taoiseach was represented by his Aide de Camp Cmdt. Murray and also present were Minister for Finance, Brian Cowen and Minister of State Maire Hoctor, along with other TDs, Senators, County Councillors, including the chairman of Offaly County Council, Cllr Eamon Dooley, and the members of Birr Town Council along with Town Clerk Mary Gaughran. Fianna Fail was represented by the party's Secretary General and members of the National Executive. The attendance also included former President of the GAA, Joe McDonagh, chairman of the Offaly County Board Ollie Daly and officers and members of Birr GAA Club. Birr Golf Club was represented by the officers and many members while many of the other golf club in the Midlands were also represented. Also present were the chairman of Shannon Development, John Brassil, along with the Chief Executive and other members of staff, the President of the Hotels Federation, Annette Devine, the Chief Executive of the Vintners Federation, Tadhg O'Sullivan, the chairman of the National Ploughing Association, Michael Mahon, representatives of Texaco, Musgraves, the Construction Industry Federation and the Concrete Manufacturers Association. Michael was predeceased by his father, Michael, brother Seamus and sister Brigid Balfe. He is survived by his wife, Mary, son, Michael, mother Madge, daughter-in-law, Anne, grandson, Charlie, brothers, Willie, Paddy (Northampton), Sean, Brendan (Dublin), sisters Mary O'Gorman (Birr), Josephine Nealon (Sligo), Kate Kelly (Dublin), brother-in-law and friend John O'Shea, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, aunts, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends, to all of whom deepest sympathy is extended on their loss. His remains were removed from his home to St Brendan's Church and a guard of honour was provided by Birr Golf Club and Birr GAA Club. Funeral Mass was celebrated the following day at St Brendan's Church and a Guard of Honour was provided by Fianna Fail as the Funeral proceeded to Clonoghill Cemetery. The Guard of Honour was led by Michael's two great friends, Finance Minister Brian Cowen and former TD, Ger Connolly. Minister Cowen also delivered the graveside oration.

12/7/2007
Birr Tidy Towns Launch Incentive Awards

Birr Tidy Towns Committee would like to remind all residents associations, shopkeepers, gardeners and all who would like to be involved, about the Birr Tidy Towns/Birr Credit Union Incentive Awards night. This Incentive Awards Scheme is a competition for the (1) Best New Street, (2) Best Kept Area, (3), Best Kept Garden, (4), Best Shop Front. The four category winners will be notified by post. The Adjudication will take place in August. The Chairman of Birr Tidy Towns Cllr Denis Sheils would like to urge all people to help Birr become a better town, a cleaner town and would also like to see more shopkeepers put out more flowers on their window sills. The Tidy Towns Committee would also like to thank all shop owners for keeping up the good appearances of shop fronts. Please help to make our beautiful town a tidier town. Clean up every Wednesday night 7p.m.-9p.m., meeting at Emmet Square. They would like to thank the outdoor staff of Birr Town Council for all their help during the year.

12/7/2007
Golfing In The Birr Glenns

Presentations President Fintan Dolan presented his prizes on Sunday evening. In his introduction Captain Billy Donlon thanked sponsor Brendan O’Carroll of Premier Insulations and all who made the day a resounding success. He stated that Fintan had devoted many hours to the running of the club since his appointment and spent much time both playing with and supporting the teams in the Interclub competitions. Fintan thanked all who played and helped to make the day a success, especially the course, bar and restaurant staff and the House Committee. He congratulated the winner Jim Spain and all who collected prizes. Brian Guinan Also on Sunday evening a presentation was made to retiring bar staff member Brian Guinan. Captain Billy Donlon thanked Brian for all his work over the years and especially for his courtesy and hearty welcome for the many visitors to our club. In reply Brian recalled the wonderful memories he had since joining in 1962. Late night sessions, now a thing of the past, were then part of the golfing scene. He rarely found any problem getting a lift home at four in the morning. Fortunately Brian is still very much an active member of the club and has the difficult tasks of organising teams and offering much needed advice and encouragement to the Thursday Seniors. For Your Diary Monday 9th July; Birr Ladies v Castlecomer. Boyne Trophy. Wednesday 11th July; 9 a.m. Juveniles. Also Ladies. Draws at 10a.m. and 2p.m. Scramble at 5.30p.m. Presentation afterwards. Thursday 12th July. 9.30a.m. to 2p.m. LMC. Friday 13th July; Birr GAA Classic. All day. Saturday 14th July; Societies. Saturday 14th July; Senior Cup v Moate at The Heath. Qualifying rounds. Sunday 15th July; Austin Gleeson Memorial. Mixed foursomes. Draw on Friday 13th. Entry sheet in hallway. Sunday 15th July; 4p.m. Birr v Mullingar in Tudenham Cup. Monday 16th July; Miele Cup. Birr v Tubbercurry. Monday 16th July; 5p.m. Presidents’ Mixed. Tuesday 17th July; Open Stableford. Full catering available. Wednesday 18th and Sunday 22nd July; Lady Captain Yvonne Boland’s Prize. Also 9-Hole Stableford and putting competition sponsored by Allure, Banagher. Friday 20th July; St. Rynagh’s GAA Classic. All day. Saturday 21st July. 3.30p.m. Birr v Gowran in semi-final of Provincial Towns. Five away. Four at home. Results Monday 2nd July; Presidents’ mixed. 1st Pres. Fintan Dolan, Kathleen Doorley, Tony McCormack. 2nd Paddy O’Brien, Michael Stephens, Carmel Ryan. 3rd Therese Kennedy, Frances Ashe, Michael Ashe. Tuesday 3rd July. Open Singles. 1st John Dwyer (5) 39 pts. 2nd Robert Sheils (4) 36 pts. Gross: M.J. Ashe (6) 34 pts. 3rd. Thomas Hogan (10) 33 pts. Sunday 8th July; Hi/Lo. Paddy McDermott Trophy. Sponsored by AIB Birr. 1st Tony McCormack/Enda Carroll. 65 nett. 2nd Denis Duffy/Dick Johnston 67 nett. Gross:Tom Rigney/P.J. Lowry 79 nett. 3rd Declan Ryan/Matt Feenane 70.5 nett. Thursday 5th July; Seniors. 1st Colman Loughnane, Eamonn McDonagh, Michael Stephens. 2nd Ambrose Hughes, Seamas Coakley, Tom Wright. Ladies Golf Members’ Prize; 1st Siobhan Tynan 66 nett. 2nd Emer Hanniffy 67 nett. 3rd Mary Grennan 72 nett. 4th Maura Flannery 73 nett. Gross. Ann Frawley 72 gross. Zandra Fashions Prize; 1st Mary Grennan 36 pts (qualified for Valerie Doyle). Cat. A. Susan Reidy 34 pts. Cat. B. Marie Keane 32 pts. (Qualified for Valerie Doyle). Cat. C. Margaret Regan 31 pts. (Qualified for Valerie Doyle). Best of luck to the Boyne team managed by Gemma Butler and the Miele team managed by Mary O’Gorman in their matches this week. Ladies scramble on Wednesday July 11th at 5.30p.m. followed by presentations of outstanding prizes. Interclub Matches Our Tudenham Cup team under manager Michael Yates take on Mullingar on Sunday next. Playing away are Pres. Fintan Dolan/Robbie Sheils and Pat Madden/P.J. Lowry. At home are Seamas Breen/K.P. Kelly, Michael Yates/Jonathan Kelly and Leslie O’Meara/Albert Kelly. The Senior Cup team plays Moate in the qualifying round at The Heath on Saturday morning. Managers Stephen Grant and Michael Horan have selected a strong panel for this tough competition, namely: Capt. Billy Donlon, Seamas Breen, Declan Gath, John Dwyer, Simon Stephens, Stephen Grant and Michael Horan. Best of luck to both teams. The McDowell team bit the dust against Tullamore last week. Better luck next year. The Provincial Town’s team has now reached the semi-final where they come up against Gowran, last year’s winners. The match has been fixed for Saturday July 21st with five away and three at home. Managers Paschal Troy and Joe Slevin are very confident. Swipe Cards Members are reminded that Swipe Cards are now available in the Club. Please collect your card as soon as possible. Juniors Juniors are reminded that they must in future use their swipe cards in the weekly competitions. This week’s competition takes place on Wednesday at 9a.m. Junior Results Thursday 5th July: 9-Hole Boys; 1st Craig Taylor 25 nett. 2nd Brendan Heffernan 26 nett. 3rd David Sheils 30 nett. 4th Eric Byrne 30 nett. 18-Hole Boys; 1st Conor Nolan 43 pts. 2nd Cian Harte 40 pts. 3rd Conor Slevin 37 pts. 4th Tomas Bolger 37 pts. Girls. 1st Niamh O’Brien. 2nd Kate Flynn. Greetings Greetings to our many overseas followers who keep in touch each week via the Internet. Sympathy The members extend deepest sympathy to Pat Connolly and his family on the death of his father John in Newbridge, Ballinasloe, at the weekend.

12/7/2007
Birr Town/FAI Summer Soccer Camp Enjoyed By Over 150 Children

Birr Town FC played host to over 150 children at their grounds at Woodfield Park last week. The hugely popular camp, run in conjunction with the National Irish Bank/FAI Summer Soccer Schools, was found to be in such demand that to cater for the numbers wishing to attend, another camp will be run at the same venue on Monday, 20th August until August 24th. Birr has also made great inroads into girls soccer in recent years. This has resulted in a huge turnout in the girls attending the camp (over 40 at the first camp). Ages ranging from 7-14, both boys and girls, attended the camp and found it to be highly enjoyable. With activities from drills to matches provided on the camp daily from 10.30a.m. to 3p.m. an action packed week was had by all. For any information required for the next camp at Birr in August, ring lo-call 1890 653653 or book online at www.fai.ie. Application forms are available at the Post Office in Birr.

12/7/2007
Birr Camogie Club Birr Camogie Club

Senior Camogie Game We played Drumcullen last Tuesday night in Crinkle. We were disappointed with only scoring one point and this will have to be worked on. We gave away too many frees and there is room for improvement all over the pitch. Audrey had a great game in goals, Kate and Grace Ryan did well also in the backs and Kady McKenna did well at midfield. The scorers in the match were Arlene Watkins (1-1), Orla Masterson (1-0), Deirdre Ryan (1-0). The U-12's were beaten by Tullamore. Thanks to St. Cillian's for the use of the Carrig pitch. It was great to see many young girls taking part. Thanks to the parents who brought cars on the day. Blitz in Banagher for the U-8 and U-10's was a great success. Thanks to St. Rynagh's for the invitation to play. Training for all teams on usual nights. A Committee Meeting takes place on Wednesday (tonight) at 8.30p.m. in Dooly's Hotel, please all attend.

6/7/2007
Birr Leisure Centre To Be Officially Opened This Weekend

The final touches are been added to Birr Swimming Pool as we go to press in preparation for its official opening this weekend. Having received a €2.3 million investment the committee believe the public will be impressed by the new facility. The pool hall has been completely refurbished with new under floor heating, all under ground piping replaced, new tiling all over, the roof upgraded and a new toddlers pool.  The new extension to the North contains new foyer, new changing village, showers, toilets, lockers etc. Upstairs is a new state of the art gymnasium with self contained changing rooms, showers etc. Upstairs also contains a multi purpose room and two treatment rooms, all of these facilities can be accessed by stairs or lift. The new extension in the Eastern side incorporates new staff and management facilities, a first aid room and storage and mechanical room. A new Jacuzzi takes pride of place in the extension to the South together with steam room and sauna room, each served with their own showering facility. Now that they have all these new additions the committee has decided on a name change for the facility and hence what did trade as Birr Swimming Pool will in future trade as Birr Leisure Centre. This has been a huge undertaking by a voluntary committee who have given tremendous commitment, firstly in working to have it prioritised by the government for grant aid, which involved firstly winning the support of Offaly County Council and secondly putting the necessary finance in place. €1.3 million came from the Department of Arts & Tourism, €360,000 from national lottery funds, €280,000 from Offaly County Council. €115,000 from Birr Town Council and the remaining €240,000 from local funding including €50,000 from Birr Credit Union and many generous local benefactors. Less than €60,000 now needs to be raised and the committee are working tirelessly to raise this as soon as possible. So all donations are still welcome. The official opening will be preformed on Saturday next July 7th by Minister for Finance and Tainiste Mr Brian Cowen T.D. and the committee invite the public to come along for conducted tours of the new facility from 4p.m. to 6p.m. on Saturday and again Sunday from 11.30a.m. to 4p.m. Birr Leisure Centre will be officially opened to the public from business from Monday morning July 9th and the committee are looking forward to seeing all of their old patrons and hopefully many new ones. There will be a special welcome for all from all their old staff as well as new members of staff. To find details of opening times, new timetable, entry fees, membership charges etc log on to birrleisurecentre.ie or birrswimmingpool.com which was compiled and developed by biorradesign@biorra.com.

6/7/2007
North Tipp Councillors Oppose Western Bypass For Birr

A number of North Tipperary councillors have stated that they are opposed to a Western Bypass for Birr. The matter was raised by Cllr Michael O'Meara during the July meeting of Borrisokane Area Committee. He said this matter first came to his attention due to a report in 'The Tribune' a couple of weeks ago. He said he was shocked to see the amount of work that Offaly County Council has done on this matter. Offaly County Council is presently looking at two options to bypass Birr, a Western route and an Eastern one. The latter runs through Offaly and the former through North Tipperary. The timeframe for the commencement of the construction of the bypass is 10 to 15 years in the future. Cllr O'Meara said he is very opposed to the bypass going through North Tipperary for a number of reasons. 'It will bring huge volumes of traffic through this area and it will pass through a huge part of North Tipperary. It will be more expensive than the Eastern option and it will also be going through an environmentally sensitive area. It will be going through a lot of housing and will tear up the land of ten farmers. 'There was no consultation with North Tipperary County Council on this matter at all and the Birr councillors are proposing to make a decision on this matter in the near future and will choose one or the other route.' Cllr Jim Casey, Chairman, remarked that as far as he is concerned the Western Bypass is not going to happen. 'I would say they were just looking at options but we wouldn't tolerate the Western route. It is not something that is ever going to happen. It is not a practical option. 'The Eastern Bypass from Roscrea Road over by Crinkle and then on to the Tullamore Road would be a much better option. 'We are putting down this marker today that the Western Bypass for Birr is not going to happen.' Cllr Ger Darcy said the Western Bypass would divide the Killeen area from Riverstown. 'Obviously planners in these matters look at all options but this is not a practical option.' Cllr O'Meara pointed out that there are at least two Birr Town Councillors who would prefer the Western route to the Eastern one. In other business Cllr O'Meara pointed out that surface water is a problem in Borrisokane and the town needs better drainage. The Area Engineer commented that a substantial pipe is badly needed in Borrisokane. He said the brickpaving of the Cloughjordan footpaths should be completed in the near future. He said there are also funds to surface dress the Ballingarry Walk. Cllr Casey said the Council dug up a drain beside new houses on the Nenagh Road Cloughjordan and in the process dug up an attractive grass area which wasn't subsequently restored by the Council. Cllr O'Meara said a carpark is needed at Redwood Church to provide parking for those attending vigil services on Saturday nights and for the school. Cllr Casey said he first raised the issue of creating a carpark at Redwood Church seven years ago. The Area Engineer said the road that is the Ballyquirk entrance to Lorrha is narrow and it will be strengthened and widened as part of the Council's next three year plan which starts next year.

6/7/2007
Killeen NS Celebrates Raising Of The Green Flag

The Killeen National School recently became the deserving recipients of the coveted and prestigious Green Flag award. Last Wednesday morning the inclement weather remained at bay long enough for most of the ceremonies to get under way. Present for the official raising of the Green flag was the Mayor of North Tipperary County Council, Mr Jim Casey, Minister of State Maire Hoctor, Very Rev. Tony Cahir, PP, Birr, Cllr Michael O'Meara, Cllr Ger Darcy, Laurie Brereton, North Tipp Environmental Officer, Cllr Tony McLoughlin, Padraic Connaughton, Board of Management and Offaly hurler Ger Oakley. Chairperson of the Green school's Committee, Sinead O'Sullivan invited the children to read out a few points on what the school undertook in its programme towards achieving the Green flag. An interesting statistic shared with the parents and friends gathered for the occasions was that waste in the school was reduced by nearly 50% through organisation of events and enterprises such as Spring Clean day, acquiring school compost and recycling bins. Mayor Jim Casey congratulated the children on their outstanding achievement. 'On behalf of North Tipperary County Council we wholeheartedly congratulate the children and the school on achieving the Green Flag.' Mayor Casey emphasised the point that this was not just simply a national competition but a European one. Mayor Casey added, 'I would hope that the principles that the children have acquired here will extend to and be adopted by them and their parents in their own homes as well. In recent times we have become very conscious of the environment and the total unacceptability of littering. Certainly this generation has educated our generation in this regard.' Mayor Casey pointed out the extremely high standards that are currently being imposed at Landfill sites but also emphasised that everything can not be indefinitely placed into landfill. 'I would be delighted for you to take part in a school trip to a landfill site to see for yourselves the excellent standards that are now being employed at those sites. Perhaps the school Management and committee might consider such a trip in the not too distant future.' Mayor Casey added that he hoped the children of Killeen National school will continue with their endeavours and work towards the next milestone. 'The next Green flag award is for energy and I hope the Killeen National School will become one of first schools in an elite group to achieve a second Green Flag.' The Mayor mentioned the supportiveness of the North Tipperary County Council including his colleagues present for the raising of the Green Flag, namely Cllr Ger Darcy and Cllr Michael O'Meara. But he also mentioned Cllr Tony Mcloughlin. 'I am always so impressed at Cllr McLoughlin's support and attendance and Tony is always prepared to work with others towards protecting our environment. I would also like to welcome here our new Minister, Maire Hoctor.' Speaking on the occasion Cllr Michael O'Meara re-iterated Mayor Casey's remarks and joined with him in congratulating the Parents, Board of Management, the teachers and in particular the students. 'In the chamber environmental matters are to the fore and indeed with the wider community and it is great to see the young people here who have embraced the environmental issues that are challenging this country and countries worldwide.' Cllr O'Meara referred to the fact that Killeen NS has always been situated in a predominantly rural area, a fact, which he commented was changing at an extraordinary pace. 'Over the past 10-12 years the number of children attending the schools has trebled, if not quadrupled. This presents tremendous challenges to parents, teachers and children who live in this area.' Cllr O'Meara stated that they must continually endeavour to ensure that the proper infrastructure is in place for the future. 'We as a Council have a very important role to play in that. It is up to us as elected representatives to ensure that such infrastructure is never overlooked and is put in place and proper facilities, such as, amenities and playground areas are provided for.' Cllr Ger Darcy joined his colleague in congratulating all concerned in achieving the Green Flag. 'We have to continue with the work of educating our children into the importance of rural Ireland which goes hand in hand with a respect and understanding of the environment.' Minister of State Maire Hoctor pointed towards the hard work involved in achieving this accolade. 'It is remarkable the number of schools in the Midlands that are achieving this award given how difficult it is to acquire. I am delighted and proud to congratulate Killeen NS on their splendid achievement. It points towards a very healthy outlook for the future and I congratulate all those involved in particular the children who deserve our applause wholeheartedly.' Cllr Tony McLoughlin stated that the Green Flag Award epitomises the great civic spirit and team work within from the parents, the teachers of the school, the board of Management and in particular the children. 'I would hope that the community and in particular Tidy Towns would take a leaf from the children's book here and aspire towards similar heights within the community as a whole.' Fr Tony Cahir said 'the raising of a Green Flag by a school is a very special event and I want to sincerely congratulate the school on behalf of the parish on this wonderful achievement. The message is to remain conscious of the environment for life. So I encourage the children, parents, staff and all involved to keep up the good work and indeed help others towards a more environmentally conscious mindset.' Padraic Connaughton emphasised on behalf of the Board of Management that this day represents the reward for all the hardwork put in. 'It is unbelievable that in the short space of one year this school has achieved this award. It reflects the immediate enthusiasm and action undertaken by the staff, and in particular the fantastic efforts of the children.'

6/7/2007
Birr News Digest

Wilmer Tennis Club The Wilmer Tennis Club's Senior Open Week is taking place this week. There has been a good entry this year and there will be plenty of action before the finals on Saturday night next. The weather hasn't been kind but hopefully it will improve before the end of the week so that spectators can enjoy a high standard of tennis. The annual inter-firms BBQ is scheduled for Friday July 13th in the Chestnut. Tickets are available from team captains or from Mary Horan or Liz Maloney. The prizes for the inter firms tournament plus the club championships will be presented on the night. This has been a very entertaining and successful night in recent years and this year's promises to be equally successful. Another very enjoyable night was had at the social tennis night last Friday. There was another good entry and plenty of fun for everyone. The next social night is scheduled for Friday July 20th. Membership is now due and should be paid to treasurer Tory Baker or any committee member as soon as possible. At last week's committee meeting votes of sympathy were extended to the Loughnane family on the death of Michael Loughnane, and the Bruce family on the death of Bill Carr. Dates To Remember At St Brendan's Church July 12th: Blessing of graves. Mass in Clonoghill at 7.30p.m. July 15th: Blessing of graves after 9.30a.m. Mass in Carrig. July 29th - Mass for Polish Community at 5.30p.m. Swimming Lessons Birr Swimming Pool are starting their intensive child lessons for the Summer. Dates are as follows: July 9th to July 13th; July 16th to July 20th; July 23rd to July 27th; July 30th to August 3rd; August 6th to August 10th; August 13th to August 17th. Times 10a.m. to 10.45a.m., 11a.m. to 11.45a.m. Places are limited. Please book early on (057) 9120343 or (087) 1208044. Book Club The next meeting of the Book Club will be on Monday, July 9th at 8p.m. The book for this month is 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald (chosen by Mairead). New members welcome - (057) 9139028. Programme Of Events At Birr Theatre & Arts Centre Forthcoming events at Birr Theatre and Arts Centre include; Thursday 5th July, Local Artist -Judy Pearson, official opening of art exhibition at 7p.m. Monday 9th- Friday 13th July; Birr Stage Guild’s Children’s Theatre Summer Camp (some places still available). Fri 20th–Sunday 22nd July; Weekend 2 VIVIDance Monday 2nd July, tune into Shay Flannery on Midlands Radio 3, broadcasting from Birr Theatre and Arts Centre 7p.m.-8p.m. Or come along and join in the fun! Contact (057) 9122911 or check out www.birrtheatre.com for further details.  Box office opens 1p.m.-5.30p.m. Monday-Friday   Australian Challenge Match Melbourne Shamrocks Hurling Club from Australia will be playing St Rynagh's in a challenge match in Banagher on Friday July 20th at 6.30p.m. Birr Kenpo Karate Club Birr Kenpo Karate Club is now open two nights a week including Monday 6p.m.-6.45p.m. and 7p.m.-7.45p.m. and the usual Thursday class. For any enquiries contact Tom on (087) 9982899. Laois/Offaly Friesian Breeders Laois/Offaly Friesian Breeders invite all dairy farmers to the farm of Francis O'Brien, Streamstown, Killyon for the final field evening of the season this Wednesday July 4th at 7.30p.m. Computers For Kids Computers for Kids summer camp will run for a limited number of weeks in Crank House, Banagher. For further information or to book a place on the course call Carmel on (057) 9152003. Order of Malta Birr Order of Malta wish to thank most sincerely the people of Birr and surrounding areas for their generous contribution to their Church Gate Collection on Saturday and Sunday last. Your generosity is greatly appreciated. Adult Social Dancing Adult Social Dancing takes place in the County Arms Hotel, Birr every Tuesday night at 9.30p.m. sharp. Next Tuesday, July 10th music will be provided by Peter Burke. Birr Town Lotto The numbers drawn in the Birr Town lotto last week were 4, 9, 13, 15, and bonus was 24. There was no jackpot winner. Two match three winners each get €100 - Eamonn, c/o Seller, Oliver Craughwell. Next weeks jackpot is €16,200 with star prize of €19,200. Next week's draw will take place in the Sunrise Inn. Thanks to everybody for their continued support. Birr Town AGM Birr Town FC's AGM will take place on Wednesday 11th July at 8p.m. at the Clubhouse. All members and new intending new members are invited to attend. Training for the new season will commence on Friday 13th July at 7.30p.m. at Woodfield Park. All are welcome to start training with the club on this date. Any information with regards to training please contact John at (087) 4161621. Marian Hall Notes Bingo; The jackpot on Friday night last was not won. The jackpot this Friday night is €3,000 on 47 calls with a top game of €300 if not won. Calling as usual at 8.30p.m. sharp. Progressive 25 Drive; Top prize on Sunday night was won on 12 games by Joe Kerins and Frank Mulvey. Two pairs had 11 games. They were Patsy Lynch and Eugene O'Connor, Michael Carroll and Ramie Horan. The last game was won by Johnny Keenahan and P.J. Nevin while the table prize winners were Des Foley and Pat Smyth. Raffle prize winners were Joe Cantwell, Johnny Keenahan and Pat Smyth. Cards continue on Sunday night with a jackpot of €100 on 14 games at 9p.m. sharp. Highfield Utd FC The numbers drawn in the Highfield United lotto draw this week were 2, 17, 25, 28. No jackpot winner, No match three winner. Five names drawn receive €30 each. They were Cian Nolan, c/o Kevin Nolan, Pop Cotter, c/o Stella, Lynne Kinahan, c/o A. Kinahan, Mrs M. Hanlon, c/o James Hayes, Karen Cotter, c/o Damien Cotter. Next week's draw in the Cherry Tree for a jackpot €4,100. Birr Mart Monday July 2nd: Bullocks: 2 sim 385kgs €590, 1 ch 745kgs €1,115, 1 sim 730kgs €1,080, 3 her 358kgs €615, 1 her 350kgs €610, 1 sim 640kgs €885, 1 lim 480kgs €750, 2 her 590kgs €790, 2 lim 440kgs €760, 2 lim 450kgs €830. Heifers: 1 lim 495kgs €815, 1 lim 370kgs €585, 1 sim 380kgs €630, 1 ch 510kgs €750, 2 lim 345kgs €585, 1 lim 445kgs €760, 1 ch 570kgs €840, 1 lim 390kgs €730, 1 her 645kgs €885, 1 ch 455kgs €695. Dry Cows: 1 fr 505kgs €510. Cows with Calves: €1,075 to €1,340 per head. Sheep Sale Thursday 28th June 2007. Lambs: €29 to €34 over a Kg. Cull Ewes: €42 to €62 per head. Clareen ICA Guild The Guild will be having a meal in Bloom's Clonaslee on July 18th. Non members welcome. Names to Bridie on (057) 9131198, Ruth (057) 9131375 or Joyce (057) 9131077 by 9th July or any members. Some seats left for the trip to Kilkenny on Thursday 26th July. Contact above immediately with payment of €15 for adults. Reduced fare for children. Men can travel also if they wish. Sunrise Inn Golfing Society Although they had a much depleted turn out for their recent golf outing to Fernhill a great time was had by all. Much appreciation to Michael Bowe and his staff. Sincere sympathy to the Loughnane and Regan families on their recent bereavements. Social Dancing Social dancing in Rath Community Hall on Thursday 5th July. Music by Sam O'Doherty. Birr Social Club Banner Scratch Cup, sponsored by Flaherty's Birr Oil, is taking place at Birr Social Club. In the 2nd quarter final Simon Whelahan beat Barry Whelahan 2-1. Simon had the rub of the nap as with Barry having the first he went in off the black in game 2 and Simon easily won game 3. In the 3rd quarter final Richie Donnelly suffered a similar fate at the hands of Brian Nolan going in off the black in game 1 winning game 2 and losing out to Brian on the black in Game 3. Social Club Golf Society The outing to Thurles last Thursday was a great success with Alan Naylor winning. Captain Tony MacCormack finishing 2nd, John Dwyer the Gross and Eddie Nevin 3rd. Next outing will be the Captain's Prize held shortly in Birr GC. The Committee and members would like to offer their condolences to the Loughnane family on the recent death of Michael, the Regan family on the recent death of Alf, and the Kirwan family on the recent death of Elizabeth. Birr Citizens Information Services Birr Citizens Information Services, The Courtyard Office Centre, Emmet St, Birr, call 05791 21017. Normal opening hours are - Monday to Friday 10a.m.-2p.m. Currently they have information from the Health & Safety Authority, the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Scheme, and Third Level grant application forms. Lo-Call 1890 777121 or visit www.citizensinformation.ie. GROW A Grow Group meets each week in Birr. If you are someone who experienced depression or anxiety attacks or who is simply in need of company do come along. You will have an opportunity to meet others, share your problems in confidence, get support and make new friends. All are welcome. No fees. Meetings take place in the Community Health Centre, The Convent, Wilmer Road, Birr at 7.30p.m. every Tuesday. For further information please contact Ruairi on (087) 2510965 or (057) 9351124. Website:www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474. Dochas The Offaly Cancer Support Group is based at Teach Dóchas, Offaly St., Tullamore. They offer support to people living with cancer and their families and carers. Opening hours: Monday to Friday 10a.m to 2p.m. Telephone 05793 28268 email: dochasoffaly@eircom.net. Farmers Vegetable Market Farmers Vegetable Market will be in the Marian Hall Car Park every Saturday between 10a.m.-5p.m. (Advert) Summer Camps At Resource Centre Birr Resource Centre is holding two Summer Camps in the coming weeks. The first camp will be a two day event on Monday and Tuesday next, July 9th and 10th, for 4-8 year olds. It will run from 10a.m. to 2p.m. each day and costs €10 including lunch for two days. On the following week, Monday and Tuesday July 16th and 17th, the Camp will be for 8-12 year olds. Again it will be from 10a.m. to 2p.m. each day and the cost is also €10, including lunch. Birr Resource Centre The Birr Resource Centre and Community Facility provides affordable meeting space for community and voluntary groups. Also free typing service available to local groups. More details please phone 05791 21912 or call into office in Londis Car Park. Open Monday to Thursday 9.30a.m. to 1.30p.m. and Friday 9.30a.m. to 1p.m. Birr Parent/Toddler Group Birr Parent/Toddler Group will be closed for the month of July. They will re-open on Tuesday August 7th next. Youth Disco A youth disco will be held every Thursday until July 26th at Melba's Nite Club, Birr. 8p.m.-10p.m. Admission €5. 10-16 year olds welcome. All proceeds go to the Midland branch of Cystic Fibrosis.

6/7/2007
Birr Stage Guild Children’s Theatre Summer Camp Birr Stage Guild Children’s Theatre Summer Camp Birr Stage Guild Children’s Theatre Summer Camp Birr Stage Guild Children’s Theatre Summer Camp Birr Stage Guild Children’s Theatre Summer Camp Birr Stage Guild

The Children’s Theatre Summer Camp at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre from Monday July 9th to Friday July 13th is presented by Birr Stage Guild, which most recently staged a very successful production of 'Some Enchanted Evening'. Other upcoming events from the Stage Guild include Vintage Week Lunchtime Concerts and a one-act play 'And They Used To Act In Movies' (written and directed by Campbell Black). For nearly 50 years Birr Stage Guild has presented theatre in all its forms from drama and musical to pantomime and pageant. Many outstanding performers, directors, musicians, designers, technicians, both professional and amateur, have worked with the Guild over the years, enriching young and not so young with their expertise! The Children’s Theatre Summer Camp will run daily from 10a.m.–1p.m. for 7-9 year olds, and from 2p.m.– 5p.m. for 10-12 year olds. Children should bring a healthy snack with them for a supervised break in the theatre. A limited number of places are still available so if interested call Birr Theatre on 05791-22911. Course Fee: €60. Drama And Improvisation – Jared Madden Jared Madden received his Licentiate Diploma for Speech and Drama through the Royal Irish Academy of Music. As a local drama teacher for the past three years he has produced and directed many school musicals and drama productions at both Primary and Secondary school level. His productions at second level were with St. Rynagh’s Community College, Banagher and Garbally College , Ballinasloe. Using a combination of drama, song, comedy and recitation Jared’s Primary School productions were with Banagher, Dromakeenan, Kinnitty and Borris-In-Ossory. He has also worked in Community Development and with Youth Clubs. He has guided students through speech and drama exams at all grades with both the Royal Irish Academy of Music and the Leinster School of Music. Jared is an active member of Banagher Drama group, having appeared in 'Move Over, Mrs. Markham' in 2007, and previously in productions 'Run for your wife' and 'Thy will be done'. Creative Dance – Derval Kirwan From an early age Derval has had a huge interest in music and dance. Having danced in numerous concerts and competitions as a member of the Windsor School of Irish Dancing she continued her love for dance through participation in numerous local and school musical productions such as ‘The New Mikado’, ‘Godspell’ and ‘The Good Olde Days’. Having completed her National Certificate and Diploma Derval graduated from the Institute of Technology, Tralee, with an Honours Degree in Health Fitness and Leisure in October 2006. Throughout her years at Tralee she learned and taught many new dance forms including Creative Dance, Argentinian Dance, Hip-Hop, Gymnastics, Basic movement, Aerobics and Step Aerobics. Derval was awarded her Postgraduate Diploma in Physical Education at the University of Limerick and hopes to continue teaching dance as part of her future career as a teacher. Music – Jean White Jean has been involved in various choirs and musicals since a very young age, including Mater Dei Chorale and the semi-professional choir Mater Dei Schola. She is also interested in solo singing and has had her voice trained for many years. She has studied Piano with both the Royal Irish Academy of Music and The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music. She has studied Violin, performing as part of the Mater Dei Sinfonia Orchestra. She has also studied Music Theory and Harmony with both the Royal Irish Academy of Music and The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music. Jean has a Bachelor of Religious Education with Music from the Mater Dei Institute of Education.

6/7/2007
Birr Community Games

Chess The Birr U-12 Chess team were up against tough opponents in the Leinster quarter finals held last week. The team was made up of: Megan Byrne, Kerrie Byrne, Gillian Irwin, Andrew Ryan, Cathal Guilfoyle, Patrick Parsons. Their opponents Gainstown from Westmeath were the worthy winners, the final score being 3-2. Thanks again to Dooly's Hotel for providing a venue and to the Mercy Primary School for providing boards. Hurling Birr U-11 Boys hurling team had a very impressive victory over Westmeath in the Leinster quarter finals last week. It was a dull evening in Carrig, but the team put in a great performance against Tubberclair/Glasson. The score at half time was 3-8 to 0-0 in Birr's favour. The final score was 4-9 to 0-1. Congratulations to the team. Thanks to Carrig for providing a pitch. Best of luck in the Leinster semi-finals on the 7th/8th July in Carlow.

6/7/2007
Seven Deadly Skins At The Chestnut

Seven Deadly Skins play The Chestnut on Saturday July 7th. Deadly by name, deadly by nature, the Skins have been knocking out the best of reggae and ska for seven deadly years to much acclaim. Playing a mix of both original and classic cover material, their back line includes tenor sax, trumpet, bass and keyboards. Doors for the garden gig at The Chestnut open at 9p.m. Admission €7.

6/7/2007
Golfing In The Glenns

Hi/Lo Trophy This weekend the Hi/Lo stroke competition takes place for the Paddy McDermot Trophy. AIB are the sponsors with the time sheet booked from 9.10a.m. to 11.50a.m. The ladies also play for their members’ prize. At 8.30p.m. there will be presentation of all outstanding prizes including the President’s. After the presentation there will be music, song and dance provided by DJ Ray Kennedy. For Your Diary Wednesday 4th July; Ladies 18-Hole Stableford sponsored by Zandra Fashions. Thursday 5th July; 9a.m. to 9.30a.m.. Juveniles. Thursday 5th July; 10.30a.m. to 11.00a.m. Seniors. Friday 6th July; Frankfort Soccer Club Classic. Contact: David Lowry (087) 678 3424. Sunday 8th July; Lady Members’ Prize and Hi/Lo for Paddy McDermot Trophy sponsored by AIB. Please refer to timesheet. Presentation of prizes at 8.30p.m. followed by music by DJ Ray. Monday 9th July; 3.30p.m. to 4.30p.m. Boyne Trophy v Castlecomer. Monday 9th July; 5p.m. to 7.30p.m. Presidents’ Mixed. Tuesday 10th July; Open Stableford. Full catering available. Friday 13th July; Birr GAA Classic. Sunday 15th July; Austin Gleeson Mixed. Timesheet in hall. Results 18-hole Stableford sponsored by Greg Smyth, menswear; 1st Pat Maher (4) 37 pts. 2nd Martin Young (15) 37 pts. Gross: Stephen Grant 35 pts. 3rd Barry Davis (4) 36 pts. Vintage Week 3-Ball Scramble; 1st Billy Donlon (Capt), Rev Eamon Foley, Paddy Grealy 61. 2nd Lena Guinan, Francie Horan, David Mcdowell 62.2. Interclub Matches Congratulations to the Provincial Towns’ Team on a splendid victory over Mount Wolseley on Sunday. The team under Paschal Troy and Joe Slevin won easily with our two juniors Simon Hogan and Darragh Claffey again in winning mode. At home were P.J. Lowry, Tom Hogan, Jonathan Kelly And Albert Kelly. Away were Paschal Troy, Darragh Claffey, Conor Murphy, K.P. Kelly and Simon Hogan. They have now reached the semi-final stage where they will meet either Gowran Park or Enniscorthy. We wish them every success. Our Junior Foursomes and O’Moore Teams failed to make progress over the weekend. The juniors have time on their side while the O’Moore’s are not lacking in ambition. Ladies Golf 18-Hole Stableford. 1st Maura Flannery 34 pts. 2nd Gemma Butler 32 pts. Wednesday July 11th Semi Open 4-Ball. Sponsored by Monaincha Spa Roscrea. Presentation including outstanding prizes after golf. The Miele team had a great victory over Tullamore last Monday. At home: Ann Frawley, Kathleen Doorley. Ann Kenny, Marie Tooher. Away: Martina O'Brien, Mary Ryan. Gemma Butler & Mary Grennan. Manager Mary O' Gorman. Next match against Tubercurry on the 16th July. The Boyne team play Castlecomer on the 9th July. At home: Kathleen Doorley, Mona Collins. Rita Delaney, Mary Ryan. Sue Reidy, Marie Tooher. Away: Ann Kenny, Frances Ashe. Emer Hannify, Mary Sullivan. Manager Gemma Butler. Members’ Prize on Sunday 8th of July. G.O.Y. Draw on Wednesday evening. Sympathy The members offer sincere sympathy to Daithi Regan and his family on the death of his father Alf last week. Alf was one of the longest serving members of the club, having joined in 1956. He was a dedicated Sunday morning player and few people in the club enjoyed the game as he did. May he rest in peace.

6/7/2007
Birr Town Soccer Club Underage Awards

Birr Town held their Annual Awards Night in Dooly's Hotel last week. A large attendance of boys and girls and parents enjoyed the evening and players from eight years of age to 16 years of age received awards. Birr Town Secretary Liam Lennon took the mike for the evening and league secretary Carl Bond presented all the awards. All the players, boys and girls, were congratulated on their performances throughout the season. The parents who helped with transport during the season were also thanked for their efforts to keep costs down. All the managers of the underage teams were thanked for their efforts. After the presentation of medals the club's Annual Player of the Year were given out much to the delight and excitement of all in attendance. Players to receive Players of the Year were Boys U-8 - Barry Kealy; Under 9 - Odhran Dickson; Under 10 - Niall Dolphin Murray; Under 11 - Cian Hart; Under 12 - Eoin Pilkington; Under 13 - Sean Brady; Under 14 - Darragh Lenihan; Under 16 - Shane Pardy. Girls U-11 - Emma Hart; Under 12 - Nadia Feehan. Many thanks to the staff of the Midland Tribune for their coverage during the year, and to Pat Cleary, Photographer for his many pictures. Many thanks to Doolys Hotel, Jo Duignan and all the staff for the use of the hotel for the awards.