2/7/2009
Birr's Intimidation Problem Has Quietened Down
The problem of intimidation on Birr's streets has quietened down in
recent weeks, which is good news for the town.
There was a real threat that people may have been tempted to take
the law into their own hands to deal with this issue, which would have
been a mistake, but thankfully that threat seems to have been averted.
A group calling itself the Concerned Citizens of Birr held a
meeting about Anti Social Behaviour on Monday evening last. About 35
people turned up and Cllr John Carroll chaired the meeting. It was a
follow up to a public meeting held in May, which attracted a very large
crowd at a time when there was great concern, anger and a certain amount
of fear, about a series of incidents around the town.
Cllr Carroll commented that things have calmed down in recent
weeks and a number of arrests have been carried out. He said the Gardaí
have been proactive on the streets and in the parks.
He pointed out that the troublemakers are hanging around now in
groups of two or three rather than in groups of ten or 12 and they were
engaging in far less intimidation, if any. Perhaps they came to the
realisation that they should stop their behaviour.
Sergeant Aidan Farrelly gave a report to the Monday evening
meeting of the Concerned Citizens in Dooly's Hotel. He said that since
the last public meeting about this matter on the 19th of May last there
haven't been many incidents of anti social behaviour. Six people were
arrested for public order offences and they were all Irish. He said the
Gardaí increased their foot patrols since the 19th of May meeting.
Cllr Carroll said the Concerned Citizens will no longer need to
meet. He said the Joint Policing Committee will be talking about
problems such as anti social behaviour and neighbourhood watch. The
JPC's next meeting will be in September. The meetings of the JPC are
open to the public.
2/7/2009
Crinkill National School Celebrates 50th Anniversary
Crinkill National School celebrated its 50th anniversary last Friday
evening, when an exhibition was opened in the school outlining the life
of the school over the last 50 years, through photographs and other
memorabilia.
Many former members of staff and past pupils attended on the
evening to take part in the celebrations and renew acquaintances with
old friends.
Principal Mary Dolan proudly noted the history of the school and
many of the exhibitions addressed the numerous activities the school has
been involved in down through the years. These ranged from the sports
field to All-Ireland quizzes.
To mark the occasion a celebratory Mass was held in the school
grounds.
Assembled on the walls of the school were photos and Tribune
cuttings stretching back to the 1950s. Amongst some of the many
achievements that were highlighted, Mrs Dolan alluded to the children
winning the Bord na Scoil championship and the U-13 Camogie
championship. They also got to an All-Ireland Credit Union Table
quiz challenge final.
Mrs Dolan added, 'children here are also heavily influenced by
handball not least by the fact that past pupils of the school have
become All-Ireland champions on not one, but on several occasions.'
The Principal recounted some of the history of the school noting
that a primary school was first established in Crinkill in 1851, the
money for which was provided by the Catholic Bishop of Killaloe, Dr
Kennedy. The school was located in School Road, in the premises which
later became the private residence of Danny and Noel Hogan. That school
provided the education for the children of Crinkill until 1958.
On 22nd September 1958 pupils moved into the new school built by
Mr. M. Loughnane. It must have been a very exciting and momentous
occasion, but no account of the occasion unfortunately exists in the
school records beyond the obligatory entry in the Daily Attendance book.
Enrolment on that day was 84 pupils - 53 boys and 31 girls. The Midland
Tribune published an account of the day in its publication 27th
September 1958.
In 1966 Fortal National school was closed and most of the pupils
came to Crinkill as a consequence. Enrolment steadily increased with the
developing village and in 1979 a fourth teacher was appointed. A
prefabricated building was sourced to accommodate the extra class.
Expanding enrolment over the next decade resulted in a further increase
in staffing bringing the number of teachers to six in 1991.
A second prefabricated class room was acquired to cater for the
increasing numbers. This particular prefab had already served its time
accommodating classes in the Presentation Brother Secondary School and
bore the scars having to accommodate adolescent boys. As Mrs Dolan
commented it proved to be the catalyst for a vigorous campaign aimed at
refurbishing the school. Parents and Board of Management campaigned
unrelentingly until the Department sanctioned an extension and
refurbishment of the existing building.
Builders, Frank Murray and Sons commenced work on the extension
in April 1992. Three teachers and their classes had to decamp to the old
St. John's Convent Secondary school while building was in progress. In
December 1992 they returned to the newly refurbished and expanded
school. Three new classrooms had been added. A general purpose room,
store and shelter which were financed by the local community completed
the complex. Oil fired central heating replaced the storage heating of
the original school.
An official opening of the refurbishments took place on June 18th
1993. Bishop Michael Harty of Killaloe performed the blessing and Brian
Cowen, then Minister for Transport and Energy and Communication
performed the official opening.
Michael Harty, Bishop of Killaloe celebrated Mass in the new GP
room with congregationn overflowing to an adjoining classroom where the
ceremony was relayed on CCTV courtesy of Peter Eastwood. The Principal
noted that pupils and teachers settled in to the new surroundings and
enjoyed the benefits of extra space which made the delivery of the
revised curriculum more feasible and the community benefited by having
the use of the new general purpose room for meetings.
With the dawn of a new millennium increasing numbers yet again
created a demand for extra accommodation. The Department responded by
providing a prefabricated extension to the rear of the school. Completed
in 2002, it provided two new classrooms, a staffroom and a learning
support room.
Later the Board of Management applied to the Department for a
permanent structure which was sanctioned in 2005. Mrs Dolan continued,
'Planning permission was granted in January 2008 and now the school is
awaiting the generosity of the Minister for Education and Science
before entering a new phase of development.'
The Principal remarked that over the years the school has
responded to and been moulded by the needs of the community, the demands
of the Department of Education and the many and diverse talents of the
staff.
The first Board of Management was established in October 1975
with Monsignor Patrick Hamell as Chairperson. In 1997, Mrs Ming
Loughnane, was appointed as the first lay Chairperson and she served the
school in this capacity until November 2007.
A school uniform was adopted in September 1994, along with a
school logo designed by student Diarmuid Donegan and a Parents
Association was established in 1995. In 1993, Caretaker, John O'Gorman
joined the staff and since then the school and the grounds have been
maintained to a very high standard. The administration of the school was
further enhanced in 2004 with the appointment of Secretary, Mrs Fiona
Guinan.
2/7/2009
New CD By International Flautist To Be Launched At Birr Library
Karin Leitner, the Austrian flautist who has played around the world,
has her concert fans around Ireland too: North, South, East and West.
But in the Midlands she has not only performed a number of times at Birr
Castle and Birr Theatre and Arts Centre, but also found inspiration in
Birr to become a composer.
As with another well-known international musician,
singer-songwriter Luka Bloom, it was staying in a chilly, damp, but
nevertheless charming period cottage in 'woodsie' parts of the vast
demesne that triggered her to write her first pieces. Surrounded by
greenery, wildlife and nature's less visible presences, and from the
well of her long-held feelings of a deep emotional and spiritual bond
with Ireland, Karin has recently brought 'Earthmagic' to fruition. This,
the latest of about five CDs she has recorded, is for flute, harp,
orchestra and voice.
Karin, who plays flute, piccolo, tin whistle and the Mayan flute,
chose other renowned musicians to contribute to the CD. Earthmagic
features recordings with Vienna-based Bulgarian harpist Krassimira
Ziegler and Italian harpist Duccio Lombardi. They too have toured in
Ireland on a number of occasions. Irish musicians have also added
special qualities to this glorious album: uillean piper Eamonn Galldubh
(who plays with Moya Brennan) and Aileen Dullaghan, who is a violinist
with the Radio Symphony Orchestra of Vienna. Superb soprano, Barbara
Karolyi, who has soloed in Lloyd-Webber's 'Cats' and 'Phantom of the
Opera' sings on two tracks, and a more unusual international musician
features as well: Jas Marlin is a didgeridoo and drum player from Bhakti
Tribe, Hawaii. Karin's own belovéd partner, jazz pianist, David Punshon
(of British and Hungarian descent) recorded several synthesizer tracks
for the album. He of course, has his own career in music-making, and as
a member of the famous 1980's group Babe Ruth. David recently composed
Pavane for The King of Thailand, and Starflight Concerto performed by
the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.
With international influences there are occasional skittish
echoes of World music in Earthmagic but overall, the Celtic theme and
spirit is strong and cohesive. Youthful Karin has confidently
entwined the 'Irishness' in her music with her classical tradition, as
only she can. Her playing is as rich, mellow and passionate as more
mature and hallowed flautists and her music reaches into your heart and
uplifts totally. It takes you on journeys: it dances you across wild
countryside; flies you over the sea voyages of ones gentler than
Gráinne Mhaol - (like Brendan the Navigator in his wave-soaring currach
or indeed, traveller and visionary, Brendan The Elder, of Birr); it re-atunes
you, through her way of listening, to our musical heritage. From the
triumphal opening overture to the whimsical, poignant and fey, you are
all emotion and joy - from crying with a smile to laughing through
teardrops! It is music to be surrounded by; to be creative in; to
be thankful for. Think of your favourite adjectives for music you
already love and add this album of lovely sounds to your treasured
collection.
It is obvious that Karin has composed some of the pieces with
film scores in mind but sound-tracked or not, these glorious
compositions will get plenty of playing time. As Karin Leitner's agent
now works in conjunction with Universal, she is hoping that Universal
Ireland will be taking up the album and backing it with promotion. But
with or without them, it could so easily become a worldwide hit.
With her strong friendships formed in and around Birr and it
being the centre of her will to compose, this was the natural choice for
the Irish launch of Earthmagic. So, come and get your signed copy - all
are welcome to gather for the launch at Birr Library on the 2nd July!
Along with extracts to be heard from the CD, Birr poet Raymond Flanagan
will also be giving a short reading.
(Contact the library for details.) [NB 10% of each CD sale are donated
to TREES FOR CITIES: www.tree-athlon.org/supporters/]
The vibrant and energetic little flautist will be back to the
country shortly, playing at Longueville House, Cork on the 1st July;
Temple House, Sligo on the 3rd; Glenlo Abbey on the 4th and Ballymaloe
House on the 5th July. Her CD is presently available for purchase online
at http://www.karinleitner.com/CDs.php
2/7/2009
41st Annual Birr Vintage Week & Arts Festival
The next meeting of the Birr Vintage Week & Arts Festival Committee
takes place on Thursday 2nd July at 8.15p.m. in Dooly’s Hotel.
Preparations for the forthcoming Festival are well under way with
letters being sent out to local clubs, societies and groups asking for
their participation during the Week. Anyone who would still like to be
included in the Festival Programme should contact Emma on (086) 6024432
or Janine on (087) 2071258 immediately.
As the Festival is entirely reliant on sponsorship and voluntary
contributions a number of fundraisers are planned over the coming weeks.
These include a Cocktail Night in the Thatch, Crinkill on the 10th July
at 9p.m. Tickets are €10 and are available from Dawn on (086) 4032462
or at the door on the night. A great night is promised so be sure to get
your tickets early! All funds raised will go towards the many free and
subsidised events held during the Festival.
The Festival Committee are very grateful to all those businesses
and individuals who have already responded so positively to their appeal
for sponsorship. The Committee would also like to urge anybody who would
like to support the Festival and have not yet had a chance to do so, to
please contact any Committee member. For further information on upcoming
fundraisers and the Festival itself please contact info@birrvintageweek.com
or check out www.birrvintageweek.com.
2/7/2009
Birr News Digest
Upcoming Events In Birr Library
CD Launch – Karin Leitner July 2nd; Karin was a resident in
Birr for many years. Karin will launch her solo CD in Birr on 2nd
July. All the music was composed in Birr. The concert will
begin at 3.00p.m.
4th July - Travelling the Mediterranean with Carol Drinkwater;
Carol has connections to the area – her mother is from Ballyfin. Due
to popular demand, Carol is returning to Birr Library with more tales of
romance and adventure. Carol will begin her reading at 3.00p.m.
Please contact Birr Library to book a place - (057)
9124950.
Wilmer Tennis Club
The annual Parks Tennis Summer Camp will take place at the Wilmer
Tennis Club from Monday July 13th to Friday July 17th. It will be the
same format as previous year's with one hour's coaching per morning for
different age groups. Fee is €30 which includes membership for the
year. If you don't have a racquet or ball, they can be provided that
week. If you still want to register please contact (086) 4052559.
The club's senior open week will be held from July 12th to July
18th. Entry forms are now available. There will be singles and doubles
events for men and women and handicapped mixed events. The closing date
for entries is Wednesday July 8th.
The Midland League will be starting next week when teams in
Divisions 4, 5, and 6 are all scheduled to play their first games.
Division 3 will start the week after the Wilmer Open Week.
Membership is now due. Fees remain the same as last year -
Single adult €125; family €175; junior €30.
Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
Now in its fifth year the Children’s Theatre Summer Camp takes
place from Monday 6th July to Friday 10th July inclusive. There are
morning sessions for children aged 7-9 years and afternoon sessions for
10-12 year olds. Places are limited and application forms are available
from the Box Office.
Quantum Theatre presents Alice Though the Looking Glass at Birr
Castle Demesne on Saturday 4th July. Gates open at 6p.m. and advance
booking is strongly encouraged.
On Sunday 12th July Kerstin Doelle (soprano), accompanied by
Kathrin Elizabeth Zobel (pianist) will perform pieces of the Italian Bel
Canto/Verismo and music of German romantic expression. Kerstin has
performed all over the world throughout her singing career in concert
and opera galas and this delightful evening in one not to be
missed!
Box office opens 1p.m.-5.30p.m. Monday-Friday. (057) 9122911 or
check out www.birrtheatre.com for further details.
Unique Physique Fitness Centre
Opening hours Monday-Friday 9a.m. to 7p.m. (ladies only).
Saturday 9a.m. to 1p.m. Special offers for new and existing members.
Call in and see Sarah or Bridget. Phone (057) 9125831 or (087) 7739079.
(Advert).
Clareen Cemetery Evening
Clareen cemetery evening will be held on Sunday 19th July at
7p.m.
Services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing People
Services for deaf and harding of hearing people are available on
Wednesday July 1st and Wednesday July 15th, at the Old Health Centre,
Johns Terrace, Birr, from 10a.m. to 1p.m.
Do you have difficulty with hearing the doorbell or telephone
ringing, people talking on the telephone, hearing the television? They
have equipment available to help you with these tasks. Do you have
difficulty in hearing in group situations, would you be interested in
learning some new communication and lipreading skills to help improve
this situation. They also have information on Irish Sign Language and
Tinnitus – ringing, buzzing or noises in the ear. Come in and have a
chat, see some of the equipment and information leaflets available. No
need for an appointment. HSE hearing aids can receive minor repairs and
batteries for all hearing aids can be purchased for €3 for a packet of
six.
For more information please contact: DeafHear.ie Midlands, Church
Street, Tullamore, Co. Offaly. Tel: (057) 9351606 Fax: (057) 9326425
Text: (057)9326421 email: tullamore@deafhear.ie (See advert).
Riverstown Tidy Towns
Riverstown Tidy Towns held a very succcessful fundraiser in
Gleesons recently. The committee would like to thank all who helped with
the organising and especially all of the following sponsors: Gleesons
Riverside Inn, County Arms Hotel, Riverbank Restaurant, Sunrise Inn,
Dooly's Hotel, House of Beauty, Fayles, Costcutters, Supervalu, Kellys
Pub, Hanlon Butchers, Eugene Gleeson, David O'Meara, Whelahans shop, and
Brosna Press. Everybody very kindly donated prizes which added
greatly to the night. A special thanks to Gleesons for providing food
and entertainment on the night.
Many locals, with help from Birr Environmental Group, are working
steadily to improve the village and surrounding areas. They are
continuing with their weekly Monday night clean-ups and would love if
more people came to join them at 7p.m. The tidy towns judges will be out
soon and all hands will be needed to help them make a good
impression.
They are happy to announce that two swans with their five cygnets
have returned to the village and are usually around in the morning or
evening for people to visit.
BBQ
Melissa Eades is holding a BBQ in the Mill House on Saturday July
4th starting at 9p.m. in aid of Playing For Life. Melissa is travelling
to Arusha in Tanzania in October to help with orphans and
underprivileged children. Tickets €5 each and are available on the
night and also from Melissa or committee members of Ballyskenagh GAA
Club. Your support would be greatly appreciated for this worthy cause.
Singing Session
Traditional singing session in The Thatch, Crinkill, on Monday
July 6th at 9.30p.m. All welcome. (See advert).
Social Dancing
Social dancing in Rath Community Centre on Thursday July 2nd.
Music by Checkers.
Birr Photography Group
On this Wednesday 1st July at 8p.m., Portrait Workshop at Tin Jug
Studio, Brendan Street. Bring your camera; learn, exchange ideas. €3
charge for non-members includes refreshments. New members always
welcome...16 years and up! Contact Rosalind (057) 91 21818/(087) 668
1783 for details
Art/Craft Workshops at TJS
Delightful creative mornings at Tin Jug Studio with Bernie:
Chocolate Saturdays for 11-16 year olds (10th & 18th July) &
Chocolate Saturday for 6-9 year olds (25th July). Times: 11am - 1pm. For
bookings call Rosalind: (057) 91 21818 or (087) 668 1783.
Birr Town Lotto
Numbers drawn in the Birr Town lotto this week were 1, 5, 6 and
16. Bonus number 22. No jackpot winner. Three match three winners
receive €70 each, Anne Byrne, c/o PJ, Tommy Rohan, Connaught Street,
Mary Rigney, Main Street. Next week's jackpot is €10,200 and with
bonus number €13,200. Draw in Craughwell's Monday July 6th. Thanking
all for continued support.
Marian Hall Notes
Bingo: The Jackpot on Friday night last was not won. The Jackpot
this Friday night is €2,300 on 45 calls with a top game of €300 if
not won. Calling as usual 8.30p.m. sharp.
Progressive 25 Drive: Top prize on Sunday night was won on 11
games by Joe Kerins and Frank Mulvey. Two pairs had ten games Vincent
Cordial and Rodge Molloy, Eugene and Peggy Martin. The last game was won
by Michael Burke and Elsie O'Halloran while Paddy Daly and Colman
Loughnane won the table prize. Raffle prize winners were Peter Darcy,
Michael Ryan and Frank Mulvey. Cards continue on Sunday night with a
jackpot of €100 on 14 games, at 9p.m.
Highfield Utd Lotto
Numbers drawn in the Highfield United lotto this week were 1, 21,
25 and 27. No jackpot winner. No match three. Five names drawn receive
€30 each Brendan Brophy, c/o D Cotter, Mark Pardy, c/o Seller, Jamie
Cummins, c/o Seller, Leah Spain, c/o Seller, Tracey Kinsella, c/o
seller. Next week's jackpot is €7,080 and the draw takes place in
Nolan's. Thanks to Whelahan's and everybody who supports the lotto every
week.
Birr Active Retirement Group
To all members - there will be a music evening in the Birr
Library on Thursday the 2nd of July at 3p.m. And on Saturday the 4th of
July there will be a reading by Carol Drinkwater. All members are asked
to attend.
Birr Social Club
Summer snooker tournament (sponsored by Costcutters Townsend St
Birr) - Results: Paul Cleary beat Jack Feehan; Tony McCormack beat Alan
Naylor; Paul Cleary beat John Yates. Fixtures: D Kavanagh v R Donnelly;
M Nolan v S Whelahan; B Whelahan v M Parlon; P O'Callaghan v B Guinan; J
Ryland v J Yates. The games are the remaining games in round one and
they need to be played this week so please arrange and play your
matches.
Birr Mart
Bullocks: 2 lim 678 kgs €1,030, 6 fr 535kgs €795, 1 lim 630
kgs €960, 1 ch 660kgs €1,030, 1 sim 315 kgs €560, 1 ch 445 kgs €780,
2 her 638 kgs €920, 4 aa 490kgs €740, 1 ch 650kgs €1,030, 1 her
520 €760. Heifers: 2 ch 618kgs €1,090, 1 ch 590 kgs €1,045, 1 lim
650 €1,095, 2 sim 395 €625, 2 ch 568 €965, 2 sim 615 €1,025, 2
lim 528 €885, 1 lim 555 €950, 3 ch 440 €690, 2 aa 495 €765. Dry
Cows: 1 ch 690kgs €915s, 1 lim 755 kgs €1,080, 1 fr 650 €865, 1 fr
740 €1,050, 1 fr 686 €870, 1 fr 700 €930.
Special entries: At Roscrea Mart on Friday the 10th of July - 18
quality Limousin and heifers, and 8 second calvers. All due late July to
September to a purebred limousin bull.
At Birr Mart on Monday 13th of July - 26 limousine x weanlings.
All weaned and dosed and eating meals.
Birr Book Club
There will be no Book Club meeting in July. The next Book Club
meeting will be held on Monday, 10th August. The book for this month is
'The New York Trilogy' by Paul Auster (chosen by Denise). All are
welcome. Phone (057) 9139028.
Cycling For Beginners In Birr
The Wolftrap Cycling Club wants to encourage people to take up
cycling. If you've just bought a bike and want to get a bit fitter, or
have a bike in the shed that you've only ridden once, try their
supervised Beginners' Cycles. They will be run on Monday evenings,
starting at 7p.m., and they'll cycle for 45-60 minutes. Beginners only,
short distances and gentle pace. You don't need to wear lycra; a
tracksuit or ordinary shorts is fine. A roadworthy bike and a helmet is
all that you need. Contact Bernie Grennnan on (085) 1500519.
Birr Parent And Toddler Group
Birr Parent And Toddler Group meet every Tuesday morning between
10.15a.m. and 12.30p.m. at the Family Resource Centre on Glebe Street,
Birr. All parents and guardians with toddlers and babies are welcome.
The children play in a safe environment with a wide selection of toys.
Parents and guardians can enjoy a coffee and a chat. Light refreshments
are provided for everyone. Total cost per family is €3.
The parent and toddler group will not be on in the first week in
July (7th July). They will meet for the rest of July and take August
off. Back as usual in September.
'To Russia With Love'
A barbecue in aid of 'To Russia With Love', a charity helping
Russian orphans, will be held at the Black Bull on Saturday July 4th at
9p.m. This will be the third annual barbecue fundraiser to support this
charity. Music will be provided by Jason Simmons. Tickets are now on
sale (€8 or two for €15). Please contact Eithne on (086) 1923850.
Thank you for your continuing support.
Aerobic Classes
Aerobic Classes in Rath Hall are on this Wednesday at 7p.m. for
this week. All welcome.
Eglish Drumcullen Parish Outing
Eglish/Drumcullen parish outing will be on Thursday July 9th
(weather permitting) to Salthill and Spiddal. If you are interested in
going, please give your names to Oonagh's shop or to Bridie at (057)
9133006. All are welcome.
They are planning their parish pilgrimage to Knock on Sunday
August 16th. The annual Knock novena will have commenced by that date.
Richie's Barber Shop
Richie's Barber Shop, Connaught Street, has now re-opened. Sorry
for any inconvenience caused during recent closure. (Advert).
Start Your Own Business – Free One Day Course
Are you thinking about setting up your own business and don’t
know where to begin? Then the one day Start your own Business course
taking place in Birr on Wednesday 8th July is the perfect opportunity to
kick start your business. The course is free but booking is essential.
For more information and to reserve a place, please contact Offaly
County Enterprise Board, on (057) 9352971 or download an application
form from their website www.offalyceb.ie
Sustain Your Business Course
Offaly County Enterprise Board is running a three evening
programme for existing businesses which aims to help and coach
businesses through this difficult period. At the end of the programme,
participants will know how to market their business on a tight budget,
review their finances and plan for the future. The course takes place on
Wednesday 8th, 15th and 22nd July from 7-10 p.m. each evening in the
Tullamore Dew Heritage Centre. Course fee only €40. Booking is
essential. For more information and to reserve a place, please contact
Offaly County Enterprise Board, on (057) 9352971 or download an
application form from their website www.offalyceb.ie
10km Sponsored Walk For Vintage Week
A 10 kilometre sponsored walk in aid of Birr Vintage & Arts
Festival will take place on Sunday 19th July next. Cards are available
from The Chestnut, The Stables, Emma's Café, Brambles, The Granary, The
Courtyard Café. This fundraising event is being co-ordinated by The
Chestnut. The walk will depart Emmet Square at 3p.m. and the walkers
will head for Syngefield; turn left at Met Station for Kinnitty; turn
right for Fortal via the Red Bridge; turn right for The Mile Tree and
home to Birr via the Cemetery. Festival dates: 14th to 21st August. For
more information have a look at www.birrvintageweek.com.
Rambles In Eireann
Sunday 5th July. Meet at 12 in Fivealley for car pooling and
departure at 12.30 sharp for Moate. Alternatively, meet at the RC Church
Moate no later than 1.15pm. They will be visiting Ballymore House where
a member of the Moate Historical Society will give a talk on the history
of the area. That will be followed by a two hour tour of the Hill of
Uisneach. Suitable footwear needed. The final visit will be to
Togherstown House for a guided tour of approx one hour. Refreshments
will be available in Dempsey's pub - opposite the Courthouse in Moate.
They expect to be there by 6.30p.m. Queries to Brian on (086) 0479152 or
Ben on (057) 91 22141. Visit www.ramblesineirinn.org.
Emporium…. At the Stables
Emporium…. At the Stables, Oxmantown Mall, Birr, Co. Offaly
Tel: (057) 91 20263.
Home Furnishings, Guest Accommodation and Delicious Food in our
Tearooms. Tuesday – Saturday 10.30a.m – 5.30p.m
Avail of our Customer Loyalty Cards where we give something back
to you! (Advert).
Tag Rugby
Tag Rugby every Wednesday night at Birr Rugby club from 7p.m. Non
contact version of the game for both sexes. Great way to stay fit and
have fun. Strictly adults only.
Citizens Information Service
Citizens Information Service is open Monday to Friday 10a.m. to
2p.m. Opens during lunch. Contact (057) 91 21017.
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 Assumpta on (086) 8114135 or (057)
9351124. Website: www.grow.ie . Infoline: 1890 474 474.
Dochas Offaly Cancer Support Group
Birr Outreach Service is located in Health Centre, St John's
Terrace. Open on Tuesdays from 10.30a.m. to 2p.m. They offer support and
information to people living with cancer and their families and friends.
Drop in for a chat and a cuppa. All welcome. Totally confidential.
Volunteers needed. Training provided. Application forms can be
obtained from Teach Dochas on (057) 93 28268.
Birr Resource Centre
Birr Resource Centre is a community facility, providing
affordable meeting space for community and voluntary groups. There is a
free administration service available to local groups.
Ba Bog parent and Toddler group meet on Tuesdays at
10.15a.m.
For more information please call (057) 9121912 or email
birrresourcecentre@eircom.net
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 (057) 93 55844 by appointment only. Clinic at O'Meara's
Pharmacy, The Square Birr on Wednesdays. (Advert).
Farmers Vegetable Market
Farmers Vegetable Market will be in the Marian Hall Car Park
every Saturday between 10a.m.-5p.m. (Advert)
2/7/2009
Birr Targets Chinese Tourists
Birr played host to a group of leading Chinese journalists over the
weekend. Their fact-finding visit, organised by Tourism Ireland in
China in conjunction with Fáilte Ireland and Virgin Atlantic Airways,
included a stop in Birr and a guided tour of Birr Castle. The
journalists represent some of the leading newspapers in Shanghai
including the Daily News, Oriental Morning Post and Daily
Business.
Michael McCormick, Tourism Ireland’s Manager Asia, said: 'There
is no substitute for being able to come here and experience what Ireland
has to offer at first-hand. The group was extremely impressed by
Birr Castle, the wonderful scenery in this part of Ireland and the
friendliness of the people. Media visits such as these are
extremely important to help build awareness of Birr, and the island of
Ireland in general, among potential holidaymakers in China. The
publicity value of the articles these journalists will write is
fantastic – they will be read by thousands of potential
holidaymakers.'
2/7/2009
Charity Auction To Aid Haitian Project
Haven was founded by Leslie Buckley and aims to tackle poverty in the
developing world by building homes and implementing community
development programmes. Haven is starting this work in Haiti by having
its’ first ever Build-It-Week. It is aiming to attract 250 volunteers
who will work alongside the Haitian community building homes.
Louise O’Brien will be one such volunteer, heading to Haiti on
the 25th October. Each volunteer must raise a minimum of €4,000.
The project will be taking place at Ouanaminthe which is in
northeastern Haiti, close to the border of the Dominican Republic. Haiti
is the poorest country in the Western hemisphere, less than three in ten
people have access to basic health care and 40% of people often go
hungry.
Volunteers will be staying in tented military style accommodation
for the week. They will also be cooking for each other during the week.
There will not be any luxuries during Build-It-Week, but the reward at
the end, seeing a poor Haitian family move into their first proper home,
will be great.
To raise the much needed funds Louise will be holding a charity
auction in the Fighting Cocks’ bar in Birr on Friday 3rd July at
9.30p.m. Goods for auction include; weekend on a Silverline cruiser,
tradesmen for a day, makeovers, signed jerseys, meal vouchers, green
fees in Glasson, Leinster and All-Ireland hurling and football final
tickets, passes to Galway races and lots more. There will also be a
barbeque and a raffle on the night.
If you can’t make it on the night and would like to donate,
however big or small you can give directly to Louise. You can also phone
Haven on (01) 4333930 or online at www.havenpartnership.com and quote
Louise O’Brien.
2/7/2009
'Alice Through The Looking Glass' At Birr Castle Demesne
'Alice Through The Looking Glass' will be performed at Birr Castle
Demesne on Saturday next July 4th.
This incredible outdoor musical theatre production takes place in
the gardens at Birr Castle Demesne, and is performed by London’s
Quantum Theatre on their second visit to Birr. Join them on
Saturday and follow Alice's fantastical adventures in the strange world
she enters through the mirror above her drawing-room fireplace. What she
finds there is a world laid out in the form of a giant chess board and
before long Alice finds herself entering the game as a white pawn.
The story follows her travels across the board until she is
crowned queen at the eighth square and along the way she encounters some
of Carroll's most memorable and enduring characters, among them
Tweedledum and Tweedledee, the Walrus and the Carpenter, The Lion and
the Unicorn, and the Jabberwock. The piece is also filled with many fine
nonsense poems and songs which are still quoted today.
The show begins at 7p.m., and gates open at 6p.m. Guests are
encouraged to arrive early and bring a picnic to enjoy in the gardens
before the performance. As this is an outdoor event, blankets and
folding chairs are recommended and remember to dress for an evening in
the great Irish outdoors!
Tickets are still available by contacting (057) 91 20336,
or may be purchased on the night, Saturday 4th July, beginning at 6p.m.
Adults €10, Children €8, three years and under are free. Visit
www.birrcastle.com for more information. Don’t miss out on this
wonderful family show!
2/7/2009
West End Broadway Performers Come To Birr
Broadway musical theatre actress Yvonne Brennan and her sisters Sinead
and Paula will bring a touch of Broadway and the West End to Offaly when
they appear at
Birr Theatre & Arts Centre on 25th July.
The three sisters Yvonne, Paula and Sinead are originally from
Dublin. Yvonne now lives in America and has played lead roles in
Broadway productions including the role of ‘Eliza’ in ‘My Fair
Lady’. Before moving there, she played in musicals all over
Ireland and performed numerous times with the RTE Concert Orchestra. Her
sister Sinead worked in West End Musicals such as ‘Pirates of Penzance’
and ‘Aspects of Love’ playing opposite John Barrowman whilst Paula
has played roles such as ‘Nancy’ in ‘Oliver’ as well as many
appearances on RTE Radio and Television.
Director Daniel Coll, who played Frank Blackmore in Emmerdale and
‘Dad’ in the original cast of ‘Billy Elliot’ in London’s West
End, said 'It promises to be a wonderful evening full of lots of songs
from the musicals the Brennans have starred in, including; My Fair Lady,
Carousel, Les Miserables, Oliver, The Sound Of Music and Company.
This show marks the launch of The Brennans first album together and will
also include Classical, Celtic and Contemporary pieces taken from it.
These ladies are very funny and not at all stuffy so it promises to be a
great night. Anyone who likes music by The Priests, Elaine Page, Maria
Callas or Celtic Women will simply love this show.'
For more information or to listen to their music go to
www.brennansisters.com
2/7/2009
Golfing in the Glenns
Captain’s Prize
As in all golf clubs the Captain’s prize is the highlight of the year.
This year our Captain Tom Rigney’s prize will be centre stage on the
weekend of 11/12 July. Without doubt there will be keen competition for
this year’s prize it being the first over the newly developed lands.
All agree that the newly designed greens and the water hazards have made
the course much tougher and challenging. It will be interesting to see
how many scores in the low sixties are returned. Members are asked to
have their names on the entry sheets on or before 8pm on Wed.8 July.
Shannon Development who have done so much to promote industry,
tourism and sport in the region have very kindly agreed to
sponsor Tom’s prize. The members are looking forward eagerly to a
splendid two days of golf when all will be keen to display their
prowess.
President’s Mixed
Presidents Tony McCormack and Mary Ryan were absolutely delighted with
the huge turnout for the first Presidents’ Mixed of the season. They
were especially happy to see so many beginners and new members taking
part. This mixed has been an attraction in the club for many years now
and it is heartening to see the welcome afforded to the new members.
Both 9’s were called into use on Monday which augers well for the rest
of the Summer. Please note that the competition has a 5.30 start
For your diary
Tues. 30 June. Open 18h Singles.
Wed. 1 July. Open day for juniors (boys and girls) in Tullamore.
Organiser:Seamas Dolan.
Thurs.2 July 10.00 Seniors.
Fri. 3 July. Cistercian College Classic. Shot Gun Start. Contact
Ann McIntyre.
Sat. 4 July. 4.00 Tudenham Cup v New Forest. 2 Home. 3 Away
Sun. 5 July Intermediate Scratch Cup (10-20) Sponsored by Topaz.
Mon 6 July 9.30 to 10.30 Juniors. Presidents’ Prizes to Juniors.
Mon. 6 July 5.30 Presidents’ Mixed. New members and beginners all
welcome.
Tues. 7 July Open 18h Singles. Visitors very welcome.
Fri.10 July. Lorrha GAA Classic. Contact Michael Liffey.
July11/12. Captain Tom Rigney’s Prize sponsored by Shannon
Development.
Fri. 17 July. Birr GAA Classic.
Results
Sun. 18h Singles. 1st Aidan Farrelly(17) 42pts. 2nd Conor
Slevin (14) 41 pts. Gross:Billy Donlon (2) 34 pts 3rd Liam
Grogan (14) 41 pts.
Open Tuesday. 1st Paddy Byrne (27) 39 pts. 2nd Ger Gath (7)
37 pts. Gross: John Kennedy (5) 29 pts. 3rd Paul Bennett (12) 36 pts.
Seniors. 1st Fergal Boland Paul Walshe Thady Clancy 41; 2nd
John Carroll Brian Guinan Dan Kealy 46.
Presidents’ Mixed. Mon. 22nd. 1st Valerie Coleman Angie Hough Michael
Ashe 28.3 2nd Bernie Kennedy Therese Kennedy Enda Carroll 28.3 3rd Capt.
Tom Rigney Ita Cavanagh Yvonne Claffey 4th Leilagh Hogan Ann McDowell
John Yates 29.3 5th Lena Guinan David McDowell Michael Stephens
29.3.
Wed. 24th. Sisters Mothers and Daughters. Sisters; 1st Kay
Maher/josie Burke (Templemore) 38 pts. 2nd Sarah Baker/Tory Baker (Birr0
37 pts. 3rd Hannah Fogarty/Margaret Ruth (Castlecomer) 37 pts.
Mother/Daughter Maura/Gemma Byrne (Nenagh) 36 pts. 2nd Sheila/Kate Flynn
(Birr) 32 pts. Friends: Yvonne Claffey/Corina Gleeson (Birr) 35 pts. 2nd
Leilagh Hogan/ Liz Nolan 35 pts. A sum of 1,150.00 euro was
donated to a schools project in Kenya where Sara Gene Loughnane is
working during the Summer.
Juniors
On Tues. 23rd our Juniors played exceptionally well in the Irish Junior
Foursomes in Gowran Park. Unfortunately they were pipped by 2 points in
order to progress to the next round. Many thanks are due to Managers
Paddy O’Brien and Brian Guinan for looking after the boys on the day.
The team was: Stephen Brumell/Eric Byrne and Simon Hogan/Gavin Young.
The Monday morning competitions are very successful with large numbers
turning out. With the primary schools due to close this week no doubt
Paddy, Brian and Liz Nolan will be glad of any extra help. Juniors
should note that the Presidents’ prizes will be played for on Mon. 6
July. Also there is an open day for juniors in Tullamore on Wed.1 July.
The organiser Seamas Dolan invites the Birr golfers (boys and girls) to
come along and enjoy the day.
Junior Results. 1st Shane Claffey 45 pts. 2nd Eric Byrne 42 pts. 3rd
Ronan Murphy 42 pts. Congratulations to Eric on gtting a hole in one at
the 2nd . Girls: 1st Amy Spain. 2nd Roisin
Watkins.
Inter Club
Heartiest congratulations to Bernard Kennedy, John Kelly and Paddy O’Brien
and their Central Towns team on their victory over Carlow at the
weekend. At home Aidan Hogan won on the 12th, John Yates on the 16th and
Mark Corrigan on the 18th. Playing away were Bernard Kennedy,John Daly,
Martin Young and Enda Carroll who won on the 19th. The team has
reached the semi-final stage where they will take on Cill Dara within
the next two weeks with four at home and three away.
The Tudenham Cup team take to the field against New Forest next Sat. at
4pm. Captains Tom Rigney and Paddy O’Brien are confident that Birr
will retain the trophy which they won so convincingly for the past two
years. Playing at home are: Michael Yates/Jonathan Kelly and Seamas
Breen/Mark Corrigan. Away are: Fran Quinn/Matt Feenane, Pat Madden/Kevin
McNamara and Robbie Sheils/Tony McCormack.
Ladies’ Golf
Patrice Delaney wins Munster Championship
Congratulations to our own Patrice Delaney who won the Munster Girls
Championship held in Killarney (Lackabane) from 23rd to 25th
June. All members of Birr Golf Club extend good wishes to
Patrice and wish her continued success over the summer.
Results
18-Hole Stableford sponsored by John & Mary Grennan. 1st. Patricia
Guinan 41 pts; 2nd Eileen Grogan 39 pts; 3rd Therese Kennedy 39 pts; 4th
Vera Smyth 36 pts.
18-Hole Competition
The second day of the 18 Hole Competition sponsored by Geranne’s
Ferbane and Mountrath will take place on Wednesday, 1st
July. Draws at usual times – arrange for after 4.00 p.m.
Ladies Semi-Open
Ladies Semi-Open will take place on Wednesday 15 July sponsored by
Monaincha Health and Spa Roscrea. An ideal opportunity to invite
your friends to play the new development at The Glenns.
Midland Girls Competition U. 18
Congratulations to Sinéad Daly who was placed 6th overall with 40
points in the Midland Girls U. 18 competition in Kilkenny last Monday.
This was a huge achievement for Sinéad who was playing Kilkenny for the
first time and also a fine score on a difficult and tricky course. We
wish Sinéad continued success
Miele Fourball
Congratulations to Rita Enright and the Miele team who returned a great
win over Moate on last Saturday. The team of Gemma Butler / Mary Ryan,
Susan Reidy / Tory Baker away and Emer Hanniffy / Kathleen Doorley and
Martina O’Brien / Ena Guilfoyle at home, spectators were treated to
some spectacular golf. The next round is the Regional
Semi-Final and will be played before the 21st July.
