31/12/2009
Birr Woman Killed In Durrow Crash

A 30-year old Birr woman died tragically just two days after Christmas when the car she was driving collided with a tree at Durrow outside Tullamore last Sunday morning December 27th.  
Sarah Nugent, Green Street, Birr, was on the Tullamore to Kilbeggan road when the accident happened at 8.30a.m.
Gardai say Ms Nugent lost control of the car due to icy road conditions at the time. No other vehicle was involved in the crash.
Sarah Nugent was pronounced dead at the scene and she was later removed by ambulance to Tullamore Hospital.
Gardai say the stretch of road where the crash happened has been the scene of many accidents and is a particularly dangerous area.
The funeral of Ms Nugent takes place in Birr today (Wednesday, December 30th), at St Brendan's Church at 12 noon.
She is survived by father Paddy and her mother Sally, brothers Jim and William, sister Clare, brother-in-law Greg, nephew Oisin, uncles, aunts cousins and her wide circle of friends, colleagues and neighbours, to all of whom deepest sympathy is extended on their tragic loss.. 
Meanwhile Gardai say the roads around Offaly were extremely treacherous over the Christmas weekend with icy conditions resulting in huge problems for motorists. 
However even before Christmas frosty roads were causing motorists to skid. In Clara the freezing weather conditions led to a serious road accident last Wednesday, December 23rd.
The accident occurred when two cars collided on black ice outside The Monastery cemetery on the Kilbeggan road.
The occupant of one of the cars had to be cut from his vehicle before being removed to hospital. The three occupants of the other car were unhurt. 
There were a number of other minor accidents around the county causing material damage to vehicles.
In a pre-Christmas message to road users, An Garda Siochana said that an analysis of road fatalities for 2009 reveals that almost one fifth of those killed on our roads were pedestrians.
The gardai said that pedestrians, cyclists and other such road users 'must take steps to ensure their safety on the roads and wear high visibility and fluorescent clothing. Motorists are urged to be extra vigilant and more conscious of pedestrians and cyclists on the roads.' 
'Drivers are urged to plan all journeys, check that their vehicles, lights etc are in working order and if they feel tired while driving they should stop in a safe place and take a short break.'
Gardai are now warning people to be extremely careful on the roads in the days ahead. Met Eireann are forecasting more wintery conditions and roads are expected to be hazardous. Forecasters say there will be widespread frost with icy conditions on New Year's Eve and on New Year's Day.
On Saturday January 2nd, 2010, there is a possibility of scattered heavy sleet or snow showers, with freezing fog in places. Temperatures are expected to fall to -5 C or lower in places.
So the advice from Gardai is unless absolutely necessary do not drive. 

31/12/2009
Innovative Birr Men Launch Decontamination Company

Two Birr men have launched a new company to decontaminate medical equipment and in turn will reduce the spread of Healthcare Associated Infections (HCAI's) in hospitals and nursing homes across the midlands and beyond
  HCAI's, such as MRSA and C Diff, can prove fatal for those people infected by them and their spread is a constant challenge to the management and staff of our healthcare institutions.
Birr men Robert Parkinson and William Harding say theirs is the first privately owned company based in the midlands which will provide this essential service.
They are calling their company Hygiene Plus Solutions Ltd and are now ready to commence trading. Constructed in a 6000 sq ft puropse built unit in Axis Business Park in Tullamore, this is a fully equipped, spacious and modern facility employing the latest decontamination technology. The size of the facility also lends itself to service, repair and storage of product if required.
The investment in this Company has been substantial with the main piece of equipment - The Aquaphase PT 4000 sanitiser - coming in from the US at a cost in excess of €50,000. This is a multipurpose machine carrying out chemical decontamination of equipment including beds, hoists, walkers, wheelchairs and commodes.
William and Robert both have many years experience in the Health Service industry. William is 47 years of age and is working as a Quality Manager for the HSE in Mullingar Regional Hospital. He previously worked in cable manufacturing in the Birr company LD Intercon which relocated several years ago. In its heyday the Birr plant employed over 400 people.
Robert is 43 years of age and also worked in LD Intercon. After the factory closed he worked in Greencore Banagher for a couple of years. He's currently Manager of a company called Lifestyle Mobility which supplies mobility equipment to people with special needs.
Hygiene Plus Solutions Ltd has set its sights on the midlands region and will offer different decontamination packages to the Public and Private hospitals and nursing homes within the counties of Laois, Offaly, Longford and Westmeath. Other areas like doctor surgeries and health centres will also be considered as will other companies outside the health sector
Apart from decontamination, storage, service and repair, the company will also be making a Product Tracking service available to all its customers via its website which will be going live in January 2010. This service will allow any location to review their own decontamimnation records and will in turn alert them when their equipment will need to be decontaminated again    
Robert and William warmly thanked the developers - Flanagan Group-of Axis Business Park in Tullamore who were most accomodating in meeting the Company's needs at a very competitive rate. 'The Flanagan Group offered us a very good deal and were very professional and flexible in their approach,' said Robert.
  They also thanked Offaly County Enterprise Board who were instrumental in the whole project and provided much needed financial and mentoring support.
William said Hygiene Plus Solutions Ltd is a 'state of the art' facility and will provide the customer 'with a comprehensive, reliable, and prompt service while meeting the needs of the latest Infection Control Standards.'
Robert said they want to become the top supplier of a decontamination service in the Midlands. He also recognises that the HSE and other related businesses are under enormous pressure to reduce costs. To support these businesses in cost saving he feels Hygiene Plus Solutions Ltd will be well positioned to offer the customer significant cost saving incentives thus allowing them to meet the challenges of new standards and requirements facing them in the coming years . He commented that their premises in Axis Business Park is designed to prevent cross contamination which is a key selling point of the business. He added that both he and William have many years experience in the Health Service Industry and feel they can put this operational and commercial experience to good use in this new venture .
Hygiene Plus Solutions Ltd will employ the latest technology in decontamination processes which will include High Pressure Washing, High Temperature Drying and Dry Steam Decontamination.

31/12/2009
Offaly Has A New Millionaire

ONE lucky Offaly resident struck gold just in time for Christmas when they scooped the top prize of €1 million in the Prize Bonds Draw.
The person whose identity will remain a mystery unless they chose to reveal themselves, was informed following the draw on Wednesday, December 23rd. 
The number of the winning bond which was drawn in the GPO, Dublin, was FE 895223 and it was purchased in 2004.
Prize Bond winners are automatically contacted following each draw. In order to ensure the confidentiality and security of the prizes, winners are contacted by post in a plain envelope.
While one lucky resident from Offaly won the €1 million prize, other Offaly Prize Bond holders have been very lucky in 2009 with cash prizes totalling €1.8 million won in the county this year. Last year Offaly residents won €136,000 in prizes.
Chairman of the Prize Bond Company Mr Michael O'Keeffe congratulated the winner, saying 'It was a great winning year for Prize Bond holders nationwide, who have won almost €28 million in 2009'.
The total number of prizes awarded by the Prize Bond Company increased by 50 percent this year with almost 223,000 prizes to winners. 
People with prize bonds can track their numbers online by using the Bond Tracker service. 
If the prize is not claimed within six months of the draw the bond number is entered into the unclaimed prizes database, so it is very important for holders to inform the company of any change in address. 
Prize Bonds are a way of savings which instead of paying interest, offers bond holders the chance to win cash prizes every week.
All winnings are tax-free, and Prize Bonds can be cashed in at any time after the minimum holding period of three months.
 The total value of prizes awarded by the Prize Bond Company this year amounts to almost €28 million. This is the largest annual prize fund ever awarded by the Prize Bond Company and represents a 37% increase on the value of prizes awarded in 2008. The total number of prizes awarded in 2009, increased by 50% on 2008, to almost 223,000 prizes.
In addition to the €1 million prize awarded on the last draw of every month, at the other weekly draws the top prize is €20,000 with five additional cash prizes  of €1,000, 10 of €250 and over 4,000 of €75.

31/12/2009
Birr Stage Guild’s Spring Musical Production

Announcing its Spring musical production, Birr Stage Guild is delighted to have yet again acquired the rights to an Irish premiere. ‘The Wiremen’, with music, lyrics and book by Shay Healy, will have its first ever amateur production in Birr Theatre & Arts Centre in March 2010!
The Wiremen is set in Co. Mayo in the 1950’s and tells of the bringing of electricity to the West of Ireland and the impact the ‘Lightning Jacks’ had on rural communities.
An information evening and workshop for The Wiremen will take place on Monday 28th December at 8p.m. in Birr Theatre & Arts Centre. So polish up your vocal chords and come along on the night – new and old members welcome! 
For more information see www.birrstageguild.com .

31/12/2009
‘Keep the Home Fires Burning’ Annual Fundraiser

On Saturday the 12th of December three climbers from Birr Rugby Football Club took part in the second annual ‘Keep the home fires burning’ campaign. The fundraiser was started last year by Camillus O’Meara and involves a campout on Carrauntohill, Ireland’s highest peak. Last year proved a fantastic success and so it as decided to continue the fundraiser as an annual event. Emmet Scully, Denis Shine and Camillus O'Meara, all members of Birr RFC, took the trek up Carrauntohill this year. 
The mountain is Ireland’s highest peak standing at 1,039m or 3,406ft and forms part of the Macgillycuddy peaks. The walk up the mountain is relatively straight forward; however, it is the ‘sleepover’ at the mountaintop which usually tests the hiking party’s endurance. Temperature decreases with altitude, at a rate of approximately 2-3°c per 300 metres height gained. In reality this means that the temperature on the mountain top may be as much as 10°c lower than that at the valley floors, and when increased wind chill is taken into consideration, winter temperatures may fall as low as -20°c.
Thankfully this year the party had relatively mild temperatures which coupled with low winds made for a relatively ‘calm’ night. Temperatures were still however well into the minuses and with nightfall coming at 4.30pm and the sun not breaking till 7.30am it amounts to an uncomfortable 15 hours in a tent. 
This discomfort thanks to the support of families, friends, Birr residents and members of Birr RFC was turned into €’s. These will be used to buy briquettes that will be circulated around the town in the run up to Christmas by players from the club.
As part of the fundraiser a night was run in Birr RFC clubhouse on Sunday December 6th when a voluntary collection was taken. Many thanks to all those who turned up and supported what proved to be a very enjoyable night. Anyone who missed the night but still wishes to make a contribution to this excellent cause can still do so by calling Camillus O’Meara on (086) 3215301. 

31/12/2009
Birr News Digest

Birr Comhaltas
At their Annual Christmas/New Year Session to be held in The Moorpark Room at The County Arms Hotel on Monday next 4th January, commencing at 8.30pm, the members will honour two of their members who have given outstanding service to the organisation over the years. They are traditional accordionist Tommy Boyle and current branch treasurer Mary Darcy and they will receive the official Comhaltas medallion in recognition of their work over the years. A full night’s entertainment has been arranged and local and visiting artists will contribute to the programme, while the more energetic can dance to the music of Davy Joe Fallon’s Ceili Band. The usual cup of tea will be provided. All are welcome to be part of the occasion.

Ramblers In Eireann
On Friday 1st January at 2p.m. (not 3rd January as previously posted), meet at the GAA pitch Kilcormac for the annual New Year's Day link up with our friends in the Kilcormac Ramblers for an enjoyable walk ending with refreshments at Dan and Mollie's, Ballyboy. An enjoyable day out for the New Year, and all in aid of Offaly Hospice. All welcome.
 
Birr Photography Group
The next meeting after the Christmas break will be on Thursday 7th January 2010. New members always welcome. Call Joe on (087) 657 4820 or online at www.birrphotogroup.org for more information.
 
Crinkle Sports & Recreation Centre 
Class timetable for 2010 at Crinkle Sports & Recreation Centre is as follows:
Monday (start date January 4th 2010): Handball - Children 3p.m.-4.30p.m.; Handball (Teens 12+) 6p.m.-7p.m.; Fitness pilates 7p.m.-7.45p.m.; Boxercise-adults 7.45p.m.-8.30p.m.
Wednesdays: Ladies handball 7p.m.-8p.m. Full training for novices, a good way to get fit for 2010.
Thursdays: handball children 3p.m.-4.30p.m.; Kickboxing 7p.m.-8p.m.
Fitness pilates: eight weeks - €40.00.

Birr Town Soccer Fixtures
Thursday 31st of December: U-11 Boys: Birr Town vs Abbeyleix 11a.m. (Birr). U-12 Boys: Birr Town vs Mountmellick 12.15pm (Birr). Saturday 2nd of January: U-11 Boys: Gallen vs Birr Town 9.45a.m. (Ferbane). U-12 Boys: Birr Town vs Tullamore 9.45a.m. (Birr). U-14 Boys Birr Town vs Portlaoise 11a.m. (Birr). U-16 Boys Birr Town vs Longford 12.15p.m (Birr). U-12 Girls Killavilla vs Birr Town 9.45a.m. (Roscrea). U-14 Girls Killeigh vs Birr Town 11.15a.m. (Killeigh).

Offaly Writers Group
The next meeting of Offaly Writers Group will take place in Birr on Thursday January 7th at Birr Resource Centre (Costcutters Supermarket car park). Meeting starts at 7.30p.m.

Variety Concert
A variety concert in aid of the Friends of the Children of Chernobyl, will be held in the Community Hall, Carrig, Birr on Friday January 8th at 8p.m. Tadhg Maher and his traditional group will perform, along with other well known artists. Please support.

Women Return To Learning Programme
Co. Offaly VEC will run a part-time 'Women Return to Learning' programme in Scurragh Community Centre from January to June 2010. The aim of this Programme is to improve access to training and education by giving women the confidence and skills to take the next step on the educational ladder. The Programme will run two mornings per week (Monday & Wednesday) and is free of charge. Subjects covered include Food & Cookery, Computers, Personal Development, Colour Me Beautiful, Parenting, Budgeting and many other subjects. For further information, please contact Alison/ Margaret in Co. Offaly VEC on (057) 9352280.
This Programme is financially supported by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform through the Equality for Women Measure, the National Women’s Strategy and the European Social Fund (ESF)
 
Marian Hall Notes
Bingo; The jackpot this Friday night is €3,000 on 48 calls with a top game of €300 if not won. Also on offer is a free game of €100. Calling as usual at 8.30p.m. sharp.
Progressive 25 Drive: Top prize on Sunday night was won by 11 games by Joe Colgan & Pascal Ryan. Second on 10 games were Jimmy Byrne & Jack Ryan. Three pairs had lucky nines, Joe Kerins & Frank Mulvey, Charlie Daly & P.J. Nevin, Kieran Guinan & John O'Brien. The last game went to Mick Hogan & Mary Kerins while the table prize was won by Seamus O'Grady & Eugene O'Connor. Raffle prizewinners were Pat Smyth, Terri Keenaghan, Tony Butler. Cards continue on Sunday night with a jackpot of €100 on 14 games at 9p.m. sharp.
The Marian Hall would like to wish all bingo and card players a very happy, safe and peaceful new year.

Highfield United FC
The winners in the Highfield United Christmas draw were as follows: Hennessy - Nellie Gallagher; Powers - Valerie Ferguson; Baileys - M. Wrafter; Beer Pack - Gareth Hensey; Wine Pack - Jason Murphy; Tin Biscuits - Ger Hart; Tin Sweets - Gail Spain; Hamper - James & Helen Hayes; Seller prize €50 - Simon Dempsey; Paddy, sponsored by Swan Bar - Andy Pardy.

Social Dancing 
Social dancing in Rath Community Centre on New Year's Eve with music by Brian McDermott. January 7th - Peter Burke. They would like to wish all their patrons a prosperous New Year.

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. Also there are Heneghan's Nursery and Athenry Foods. (Advert).
 
St Brendan's Market
There will be no market on New Year's Day. They will be back as usual on Friday 8th of January 2010 at 2.30p.m.

Birr Book Club
The next Book Club meeting will be held on Monday January 11th. The book for this month is 'The Winter Ghosts' by Kate Mosse (chosen by Pauline). New members welcome. (057) 9139028.

Birr Art Group
Birr Art Group begins on the 12th of January at Birr Resource Centre and every Tuesday from midday to 3pm. €60 for six sessions. Refreshments provided. Contact Kathleen Gormley (057) 91 25660 or (087) 6819990.

HSE Suicide Prevention Service
If you are concerned about a family member, friend or colleague and would like some advice, support or information, you can contact the HSE Suicide Prevention Service on (086) 8157320 at any time.
Suicide is everyone's business and we can all play our part in preventing it happening by being vigilant, concerned and supportive to those we love and care about.

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 John (086) 8033126 or (057) 9351124. Website: www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Sue Ryder Foundation
The Sue Ryder Foundation is the largest provider of accommodation for the elderly in the country. They support this activity through their charity shop in Birr. If you have clothes or furniture to donate for the support of their work, contact them on (057) 91 21227 or call to the shop.

Services For Deaf And Hard Of Hearing People
Services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing People on Wednesday 6th & 20th January, at the Old Health Centre, Johns Terrace, Birr, from 10a.m. to 1p.m. This is a free service where you can get advice about hearing aids, equipment for your home to help you hear the doorbell, phone, smoke alarm, television. Also information on Irish Sign Language, Tinnitus and Lip-reading. 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. Appointments can be made for a private consultation for hearing aids in Tullamore; hearing aids are competitively priced at €950 or €1,250 each, or you can phone 1800 256 257. 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 .

Helpline Charities
AWARE; Helping to defeat depression and prevent suicide. Lo-Call Helpline 1890 303302
TEEN-LINE IRELAND; Alone, worried or distressed - it just takes one phone call. Freephone 1800 833634.
SAMARITANS; Always available 24/7 for confidential emotional support. Telephone 1850 60 90 90.
I.A.S. Irish Association of Suicidology. Managing grief and loss after suicide. Telephone (094) 9250858
LIVING LINKS; Providing practical help, advice and support to persons bereaved by suicide. Helpline; (087) 9693021.

31/12/2009
Golfing In The Glenns 

Jack Frost
Not content with causing havoc on the roads Jack has been exceptionally busy closing down golf courses over the Christmas season. Hopefully the New Year will bring some respite with the prospect of returning to the fairways within the week. Otherwise we may have to resort to skating on our new lakes. Happy New Year to all.
Special Offer
A special surprise for golf beginners is this year’s offer from Birr Golf Club. All first time golfers can now avail of 2010 single membership for €500 and family membership for €800. This is an exceptional offer to first timers who can avail of all the facilities of a very friendly club and take part in all the activities and competitions throughout the year. This is your opportunity to join one of the Midland’s finest golf courses. There is no entry fee and all details can be had from the office: (057) 912 0082.
Membership Vouchers
Membership vouchers are available from Joan Grimes in the office. No doubt a voucher is a very acceptable present for your family and friends as subscription fees for 2010 are now due. Please ring (057) 912 0082 for further information.
Open 3-Ball Competition
An Open 3-Ball Competition is up and running until April 2010. The response has been very encouraging with a great turn-out over the past two weeks. The competition will be over 18 holes with the best two scores to count at each hole. The teams are composed of any combination ladies/gents and the competition is sponsored by Michael Horan of Birr Golf Shop and Driving Range, Callaway and Trackman. Three teams will qualify each month with the Grand Final in May 2010. Play will be from Monday to Saturday with the handicap limits of men/20 and ladies/30. Entry is €10 for members and €20 for visitors. This will be an exciting competition over the winter and spring and no doubt will prove attractive to all golfers.
Texting
The Club is in the process of setting up a texting service for members. We hope to have this up and running in the New Year. If you have not already done so, please give your mobile number to Francie Horan. 
Kevin McGrath
Kevin McGrath is offering great winter coaching for the members. Special gift voucher packages are available for the New Year. Call Kevin on (087) 237 9234 for more details.
For Your Diary
Open 3ball Competition 18h. Ongoing
14h Stableford into New Year
9h Hamper for Juniors (boys/girls) over Christmas holidays.
Juniors
Juniors should note that a special 9h Christmas Holiday Hamper is being run over the next couple of weeks. Organiser Christy McGarry hopes that many juniors will turn out for this seasonal competition.
Sympathy
The members extend deepest sympathy to Hubert Rigney and his family on the death of his wife Marie in Banagher at the weekend. Also to Tom Lynch and his family on the death of his father Michael in Banagher at the weekend.

18/12/2009
No Funds Available To Salt Roads In Birr

It became apparent from the remarks by Town Engineer Willie Ryan at the monthly meeting of Birr Town Council on Monday night last that the only funding available for winter maintenance in Offaly was for national routes. 
The Engineer noted that any measures to ensure the salting of the roads in Birr area would require substantial funding. He stated that no such funding existed. He added that any salting in the Birr area undertaken in the past was done only as a matter of emergency, 'Last year, for instance, it was the Gardai Siochana that sought the emergency salting of the roads in the worst affected areas in Birr.'
Cllr Bernie Fanneran noted that last year there was a three car collision at Wood Lane and Nurses for the Hospital were finding access extremely difficult due to the severe ice on the road, and a similar position existed at Pound Street. She submitted that a survey of the black spots in the town should be carried out. 
The Town Engineer re-iterated the fact that regardless of carrying out surveys there was in fact no funds available for winter maintenance for Birr or indeed for Offaly. 'Funds are only made available for national routes but I can tell you right now that to ensure salting of roads throughout the Birr area would be a very expensive enterprise.'
Cllr Fanneran remarked that this perhaps would not be as expensive as loss of life on the roads. 
Cllr John Carroll suggested that perhaps works for salting could be put out to tender by the Council to a private enterprise. 

18/12/2009
Wildflowers Of Offaly A Stunning Publication

A fascinating new book on the wildflowers of Offaly was launched in Tullamore on Monday night.
The author John Feehan, who hails from Birr, is a UCD ecologist and writer. Mr Feehan's passion for wild flowers and plants is evident in this stunning 500 page production.
Taoiseach Brian Cowen, described the book as a masterpiece of clarity and said it was of the highest class in terms of science, contents and in terms of giving people an understanding of the tremendous variety of our natural flora and how it feeds into a wider diversity study. Mr Cowen said it was a timely publication especially in the light of the talks on climate change taking place in Copenhagen. The Taoiseach spoke of how we must be mindful of the plants that surround us, 'we cannot presume of their continuance unless we take action to ensure they are taken care of'.
Speaking at the launch John Feehan, said he had been working and researching the project for the past four and a half years, having been approached by Amanda Pedlow the Offaly Heritage Officer. He said 'we knew we would have to produce not just a book, but a superb book'.
With reference to the letters BIFFO in bold type across the top of the front cover, Mr Feehan, explained back in the 60s when it was approaching Christmas, one of the things he looked forward to was the annual Christmas issue of the Beano. Continuing he said 'until 1965 the front cover of the Beano featured its lead character BIFFO, as you know in subsequent decades it found a new connotation which the Taoiseach has tried successfully to get a more appropriate attribute for... but this is the real BIFFO for 2010, Beautifully Illustrated Flora From Offaly.'
Mr Feehan said he would love to think of the Taoiseach with a copy of the book on his desk, however he said it might cause him some embarrassment so Mr Feehan presented Mr Cowen, with a beautiful bound version of the book, in a box.
Chairman of Offaly County Council, Noel Bourke, also praised John Feehan, for his book and recommended it to everyone.
'Wildflowers of Offaly' by John Feehan, is available in shops in Tullamore and Birr and costs €40.

18/12/2009
100,000th Patron Celebrated At Birr Theatre & Arts Centre

Saturday 12th December 2009 was a hugely significant day in the history of Birr Theatre & Arts Centre when it welcomed its 100,000th patron through the doors of this historic venue.  
This dedicated, purpose built Theatre which dates from 1888 fell into disrepair in previous decades but now restored to its original glory is a high quality facility, which since its grand re-opening in July 2000, caters for local, national and international talent in music, drama, dance and visual arts.  
The lucky winner was Jock Nichol, an Offaly based Scottish artist who lives in Killyon, Co. Offaly. He received a beautiful bouquet of flowers, a bottle of champagne, Friends Membership of the Theatre for 2010 along with two tickets to an event of his choice during each quarter.

18/12/2009
Enright Concerns Over Flooding Repeat If Immediate Action Not Taken

Laois/Offaly Fine Gael TD Olwyn Enright has voiced serious concerns that the devastating flooding in the Shannon area could be repeated if Minister Martin Mansergh does not take swift and immediate action.
Deputy Enright questioned Minister Mansergh about actions he will take to address to the hardship caused by the recent flooding of the Shannon area and if a management programme will be put in place to minimise future flood risk in this region.
'In this reply, Minister Mansergh told me the Office of Public Works will in 2010 commence a Catchment Area Flood Risk Assessment and Management study that will identify the areas in the Shannon catchment that are at significant risk from flooding, and will produce a prioritised list of measures of addressing the risk in those areas.
'Another study is of little comfort to those, who were under several feet of water only last week. They can not afford to wait until then to have measures put in place to address this devastating issue,' she said.
'Minister Mansergh is only too well aware of the difficulties being experienced by people living in the Shannon region, having personally visited the area on several occasions. It's a shame he did not act after these visits and initiate this study then and he would be in a position to take action now.'
Deputy Enright pointed out that in the Minister's reply he stated that it is pending the completion of this Study that only then through the minor works scheme, will the OPW work with the relevant local authorities to identify areas that may benefit from interim localised mitigation measures.
'This is not acceptable for those living in this area, who are living in fear that this exceptional flooding is now going to become the norm,' she added.
Meanwhile, Deputy Enright also sought clarification from several Ministers about what assist will be provided to flooding victims.
'I understand from the Minister for Social & Family Affairs that the community welfare staff are providing support to people affected by the recent flooding and a Humanitarian Assistance Scheme is being set up to provide a means tested financial support to people who have suffered damages to their homes.
'I welcome this scheme. However, I would be conscious that Community Welfare officers are already working under a huge work load and I have asked the Social Welfare Minister to outline what additional supports she has provided to Community Welfare Officers in assisting them to handle this additional scheme.'

18/12/2009
Birr News Digest

40th Annual Ecumenical Carol Service
The Ecumenical Carol Service is being held in St. Brendan's Church of Ireland this Sunday night, 20th December, starting at 7.30p.m. The singing will be led by Birr Choral Society with the readings by members of the Roman Catholic, Methodist and Church of Ireland congregations. St Brendan's Communiity School Choir will also be taking part. This marks the 40th anniversary of an annual event bringing the churches together. The first event all those years ago was also held in St. Brendan's Church of Ireland. This is also the 40th anniversary of Birr Choral Society and that is being celebrated as well. So everyone is invited to come and celebrate a wonderful milestone and to join in the singing! The collection will be given to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Birr.

4th Annual Birr GOAL Mile
The town of Birr is getting ready to stage it's 4th Annual GOAL mile on Christmas Day, starting at Emmet Square at 1p.m. Many top athletes have already confirmed their intention to run a fast mile, while most people will be content to exchange festive greetings and Walk and Talk their way around the course, as an expression of their support for the GOAL organisation, which is dedicated to helping the poorest of the poor in the developing world.
So, come on out and join in the Fun. All your friends will be there, there will be Music and Craic, and a nice hot beverage at the end, courtesy of the County Arms Hotel. Do good, feel good.
Looking forward to seeing  you in the Emmet Square before 1p.m., and please wear something Festive.  

Friends Of Birr Community Nursing Unit
Friends of Birr Community Nursing Unit, residents and staff would like to thank all those who supported their recent fundraisers and sale of work. It was much appreciated. Congratulations to all the winners of the various prizes.
They would esepcially like to thank all their sponsors, Tesco, Costcutters, SuperValu, Fox's Pharmacy, Butler's Pharmacy, Hennessy's Pharmacy, Barber's Jewellers, Frawleys, Guinan's, Glennon's, Sunflowers, The Thatch, Jerros and also relatives and staff who donated prizes and time. 
A merry Christmas and happy new year to all from the residents and staff.

Social Dancing 
The programme for the Christmas and New Year dancing in Rath Community Centre is as follows: St Stephen's Night - Midnight Melodies. (Party Night). New Year's Eve - Brian McDermott. January 7th - Peter Burke. They would like to wish all their patrons a happy Christmas and prosperous New Year.

Guide Dogs For The Blind
Christmas Cards & Calendars in aid of Irish Guide Dogs for the blind are available from Mary Burns (057) 91 25676, Arnold Walsh (087) 6114373 (Lorrha) & Ann Hogan of Hogans Pub, Market Square, Birr.

Strawberry Hill Antiques
Strawberry Hill Antiques & Fine Jewellery, Main Street Banagher. Christmas opening times are Thursday to Saturday 12 noon to 5p.m. Sunday 2-5p.m. or by appointment (087) 2941597. New, exclusive and unusual giftware at affordable prices (Advert).

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. Also there are Heneghan's Nursery and Athenry Foods. (Advert).
 
Blood Transfusion Clinic
The Irish Blood Transfusion Service will be holding a clinic in Birr this week. They will be in the Marian Hall, Birr on Thursday December 17th from 2.30p.m. to 4.45p.m. and 7p.m. to 9.30p.m. and on Friday December 18th from 10.30p.m. to 12.30p.m. and 2.30p.m. to 4.45p.m. Give blood and join Ireland's most extraordinary club.

St Brendan's Market
Customers please note the Christmas Market will be on Wednesday 23rd December and there will be no market on New Year's Day. They will be back as usual on Friday 8th of January 2010 at 2.30p.m.

Birr Town Bag Pack Tesco 
Birr Soccer Club are holding a bag pack in Tesco's Birr on this Friday December 18th and Saturday December 19th. Please support as all funds are to offset running costs of their underage boys and girls teams.

Birr Soccer Club 
Are there any parents who could give an hour or two to help at the bagpack this weekend. They need your help if you have an hour to spare. Please ring the Secretary on (086) 8892429 to book an hour with them. 

Marian Hall Notes 
Bingo; The jackpot 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. Lots of Christmas prizes to be won, starts at 8.30p.m. sharp. 
Progressive 25 Drive; Two pairs shared top prize on Sunday night with 12 games. They were Joe Cantwell and Peter Darcy, Joe Kerins and Frank Mulvey. Two pairs had 11 games - Pat Craven and Kieran Guinan, Marguerite and Liam Shanahan. The last game went to Tom Carroll and Bridget Reddin while the table prize went to Chrissie Hogan and Ena Loughnane. Raffle prize winners were Joe Kerins, Charlie Daly and Frank Mulvey. Cards continue on Sunday night with a Jackpot of €100 on 14 games. Cards at 9p.m. sharp. 

Birr Town Lotto 
Numbers drawn in the Birr Town Lotto this week were 1, 17, 21, 29, bonus number 27. No jackpot winner or no match three winner. Five names drawn receive €40 each. They were Bernie Cahill, Parkrise, P. Bennett, c/o E. Pardy, C. Cooke, Crinkle, Ryan Cahill, Forest View, Betty Connole, Crinkle. Turkey winner Betty Pardy, Cappeneale, Ham winner, Liam Grimes, Woodlands. Next week's Jackpot is €4,800 and with bonus number €7,800. Draw in the Fighting Cocks on Monday December 21st. Also Monster Christmas Draw with numerous prizes. 
Thanking all for your continued support. 
No U-8 training this Wednesday December 16th. Christmas break now in operation. U-8 training resumes on January 13th 2010. Wishing all parents and players a very Happy Christmas. 

Highfield Utd Lotto 
Numbers drawn in this week's Highfield United lotto draw were 9, 11, 18, 22. No jackpot winner. Six match three winners receive €25 each. They were Conor Hernon, c/o Stella, David and Robert Murragh, Shinrone, Valerie Ferguson, Five Alley, Leona Spain, c/o L. Spain, T. Pardy c/o J. Pardy, Kathleen Hogan, c/o seller. Turkey winner Ger Daly, Ham Winner Betty Pardy. Next week's jackpot is €10,650 and the draw takes place on the Cherry Tree. Thanks to Nolans and everybody who support the Lotto every week. 

Social Dancing In Carrig Hall
Social Dancing in Carrig Hall will take place on Thursday December 17th. Music by Brian McDermott 9.30p.m. to 12.30am. Christmas draw and refreshments served.

Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
Organised and produced by Legitimate Bodies Dance Company, I.F.O.N.L.Y., a contemporary dance festival dedicated to solo is an incredible opportunity to see some of the best dance artists from Ireland and abroad. Come along this Thursday 17th December and be surprised by the amazing beauty, breathless expertise, enchanting atmosphere and provoking twists of this wonderful programme.
Brake-Thru, on Friday 18th December showcases young emerging bands before they break through onto the national music scene. This could be your chance to say 'I heard them when they started!'
The new Theatre programme for January, February & March 2010 is now available so be sure to pick up your copy! 
Box office opens 1p.m.-5.30p.m. Monday-Friday. (057) 9122911 or check out www.birrtheatre.com for further details.

Birr Book Club
The next Book Club meeting will be held on Monday January 11th. The book for this month is 'The Winter Ghosts' by Kate Mosse (chosen by Pauline). New members welcome. (057) 9139028.

Camcor Bridge Club
Camcor bridge club results for last week were as follows: 1st nett Mary Kelly and Sadie Leonard; Gross Denise O'Hare and Ann Smyth; 2nd nett Tommie Nee and Ann Ritchie.

Birr Photography Group
'What is it?' fun photo night at 8p.m. Wednesday 16th December in Tin Jug Studio, Brendan Street, Birr. Bring along your strange and wacky photos of close-ups or strange angles for everyone to guess the mystery subject. New members always welcome. This will be the last meeting of 2009. The next meeting after the Christmas break will be on Wednesday 6th January 2010. Call Joe on (087) 657 4820 or online at www.birrphotogroup.org for more information.
 
Ramblers In Eireann
On Saturday 19th December at 8p.m.. enjoy a great night out at the Ramblers Christmas Dinner at the Thatch, Crinkle. €45. All welcome. Names and money are now being taken by Sinead at tel. (057) 91 23794 (H); (086) 05 48143 (M) after 6p.m.
 
Christmas Social Dancing
There will be a Christmas Dance in Shinrone Community Centre on this Saturday night, December 19th. Music will be by 'The Ranchers' and dancing will be from 9.30p.m. to 12.30a.m. Light refreshments will be served and there will be prizes on door tickets. All are very welcome to come along and get in the mood for Christmas! 

Aghancon Parish Christmas Whist
Aghancon Parish Christmas Whist Drive will be held in Ballyegan Hall (by kind permission until further notice) on Saturday December 19th at 8.15p.m. Everyone welcome. Prizes galore.

Birr Art Group
Birr Art Group begins on the 12th of January at Birr Resource Centre and every Tuesday from midday to 3pm. €60 for six sessions. Refreshments provided. Contact Kathleen Gormley (057) 91 25660 or (087) 6819990.

Birr Active Retirement Group
Birr Active Retirement Group are taking their Christmas break and are holding their Christmas dinner in the County Arms Hotel on Thursday 17th December at 3.30p.m. Their meetings will resume in January 2010.

Birr Social Club
Teams snooker tournament in aid of the Birr Community Nursing Unit is drawing to a conclusion at Birr Social Club. The last quarter-final was finished on Sunday with Buckley's Super Valu winning 4-1 overall over Emma's Café. The first semi was played on Saturday night between Miley's and Corrigan's. B Kennedy lost to R Donnelly in game one, D Nolan beat Jeff Corrigan game two, Miley Jnr beat John Corrigan game 3, Miley Snr lost to Spud Corrigan game four, and in the decider A Sullivan beat Mark Whelahan for an overall 3-2 win for Miley's. The second semi will be played this week.

Birr Mart
Bullocks: 3 ch 483 kgs €820, 2 ch 625 kgs €895, 1 lim 555 kgs €880, 1 fr 615 kgs €840, 1 her 575 kgs €795, 2 ch 670 €950, 3 aa 390 €550, 1 sim 480 €760, 1 her 545 €760, 4aa 400 €570. 
Heifers: 1 lim 470 kgs €695, 1 ch 570 kgs €890, 1 her 510 kgs €705, 1 bb 445 €700, 2 lim 248 €400, 1 ch 635 €935, 1 ch 495 €730, 1 lim 460 €705, 1 ch 475 €730, 2 aa 580 €755. 
Opening sales of 2010: Roscrea Sheep - 6th of January. Roscrea Cattle - 15th of January. Birr Cattle - 18th of January. Nenagh Cattle - 19th of January. Wishing all customers a happy Christmas and peaceful New Year.

Birr Leisure Centre
Birr Leisure Centre are now taking bookings for Swim Lessons, and Gym Classes for 2010. Saturday Child Lessons will have an extra session added due to demand from January 2010. Aquafit continuing Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, at 7.00p.m., Friday 11.00a.m.
They also teach one to one Swim Lessons for Children, and Adults, booking is essential.   
New Timetable now available. Gift Vouchers available at reception, ideal Christmas gift. Various Membership options available. 
 
HSE Suicide Prevention Service
If you are concerned about a family member, friend or colleague and would like some advice, support or information, you can contact the HSE Suicide Prevention Service on (086) 8157320 at any time.
Suicide is everyone's business and we can all play our part in preventing it happening by being vigilant, concerned and supportive to those we love and care about.

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 John (086) 8033126 or (057) 9351124. Website: www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Sue Ryder Foundation
The Sue Ryder Foundation is the largest provider of accommodation for the elderly in the country. They support this activity through their charity shop in Birr. If you have clothes or furniture to donate for the support of their work, contact them on (057) 91 21227 or call to the shop.

Services For Deaf And Hard Of Hearing People
On Wednesday 16th December, at the Old Health Centre, Johns Terrace, Birr, from 10am to 1p.m., this is a free service where you can get advice about hearing aids, equipment for your home to help you hear the doorbell, phone, smoke alarm, television. Also information on Irish Sign Language, Tinnitus and Lip-reading. 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. Appointments can be made for a private consultation for hearing aids in Tullamore; hearing aids are competitively priced at €950 or €1,250 each, or you can phone 1800 256 257. 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 . 

Helpline Charities
AWARE; Helping to defeat depression and prevent suicide. Lo-Call Helpline 1890 303302
TEEN-LINE IRELAND; Alone, worried or distressed - it just takes one phone call. Freephone 1800 833634.
SAMARITANS; Always available 24/7 for confidential emotional support. Telephone 1850 60 90 90.
I.A.S. Irish Association of Suicidology. Managing grief and loss after suicide. Telephone (094) 9250858
LIVING LINKS; Providing practical help, advice and support to persons bereaved by suicide. Helpline; (087) 9693021.

Santa's Visit To Log Cabin
It's that time of year again and we can now tell all the boys and girls from Birr Scouts and Cubs that we have just received confirmation about a very special visit from Santa Claus. He will be arriving on at the Log Cabin on Sunday 20th December around 2.30p.m., but as usual, this will depend on weather conditions from the North Pole. He has told us that he is really looking forward to seeing all the good boys and girls from The 3rd Offaly Cub Scout and Scout group, along with their family members. He was very sad to hear about the damage to our Log Cabin and is really looking forward to seeing the newly refurbished Cabin. He is really impressed with all the hard work the adults have done to make sure it is all spick and span for his visit this year. Everyone at Birr Scouts would like to express our very grateful thanks to all who have helped us in our fundraising for the repair to the Log Cabin. The kindness and generosity shown to us by local businesses and the local people was exceptional and is gratefully appreciated by everyone concerned, not least of all by the boys and girls who still have their very special Log Cabin back for their use again. All the Leaders and the Parents Committee would like to take this opportunity to thank all the parents who attended the recent AGM. The great turnout is appreciated by the Leaders and the outgoing Committee who were delighted to see so many new faces. The Leaders and the Committee would also like to take this opportunity to wish all the Venture Scouts, Scouts, Cub Scouts and their families a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year

18/12/2009
South Offaly Special Olympics Club

It has been a great few months for the South Offaly Special Olympics Club. Since they resumed in September, they have been bowling, swimming and playing basketball in Cloghan Hall.
They had their Christmas disco last week and a gift of swim towels was presented to each athlete for use on their club nights.
On Saturday last volunteers in the Swim Club attended a very informative and enjoyable course run by Offaly Sports Partnership in Birr Lesiure Centre. Thank you to Marian and staff of Birr pool for accommodating the club yet again. It is very much appreciated.
The course was also attended by volunteers of Camcor Capers Special Junior Olympics Club, who are also training in Birr Pool.
They take this opportunity to wish all members, volunteers and parents a peaceful Christmas and New Year, with a reminder that the next club night will be on Wednesday January 6th in the Swimming Pool, Birr from 7p.m. to 8p.m.

18/12/2009
Update From Fr Colm Hogan In Ecuador

Hola Folks,
Ecuador calling here again and just updating you on the latest goings on here. 
Whereas in Ireland you are all getting plenty of rains, we have a severe drought here presently. The country's electricity is worked on the hydroelectric system, so what has happened is that many of the rivers have run dry which is causing powercuts throughout the whole country. For the last few weeks, power has been cut for eight hours every day. It is causing a lot of chaos and plenty of problems within the city, such as internet and computer services and traffic lights being out of action. The powercuts are expected to continue for the forseeable future, until our rainy season begins which is due to start in early January. 
On the parish level, the powercuts slow down any construction or building work and as you can imagine, very little can be done without power. It is only when one is without it, that one realises how many things we take for granted.
Another crisis which happened since I came back from Ireland, was that the water trucks went on strike for ten days. They refused to come into the parish, because they wanted to increase the price of the water, from eighty cent for a barrel of water to one dollar. As a result of the strike, many people were without water for those days - another sign of how much we take for granted.
Thank God, the situation was resolved and the strike re-emphasised how important it is to try and get the basic need of running water into the area.
  Consequently, for the parish, we bored a well for water. It took a while because the house and church are built on a hill, but we found water and so if the strike happens again, we will have a ready supply of uisce.
On the building front, we are putting the finishing touches to the parish church. You will see from the attached photos, the bamboo styled church and also inside we have a baptismal pool, where we celebrate our baptisms. For the last month, over sixty baptisms have taken place. 
We are also building six classrooms for religious instruction for the children, which takes place every Sunday before Mass. Up until now, the children were receiving catechesis out in the fresh air or I should say, in the heat and severe humidity, so it is great now that they have some shelter from the heat.
The school continues to run well, under the management of the nuns from Colombia and we hope to have two more classes available to the children for next year. The school year here runs from April to mid January and they have their holidays from then to the end of March.
The stark reality of life for the poorest of the poor is always evident in their daily lives. They have a chicken and rice diet and that is basically their food intake. Basically chicken and rice are the cheapest things they can buy.
It is a very common sight to see people changing their toilet from one hole to another in their space behind their bamboo shack which is their house and also to see people in the mornings washing their teeth from the window space in their home. I use the word space because that is what it is exactly, because they have no glass in the window. Such empty space in their houses can cause many infections and sickeness, as the dust and the mosquitos can get into the houses very easily and cause a lot of health problems.
There are a huge amount of children in the area and recently I had to accompany a family with their child to hospital and the conditions there, were terrible. Tragedies can occur too where there are a lot of bamboo shacks built together. We had a very sad funeral of a little baby recently who was burnt to death, after three houses in close proximity burned down.
We are approaching our Advent and Christmas season now and as well as that, it is the tradition here to celebrate first confession and holy communion in the month of December, so we have our first holy communion here on the Sunday before Christmas day. 
On the 10th of January next, we are having the official blessing of our parish church on the feast of the Baptism of the Lord, as the parish bears the same name, it will be appropriate to have the celebration then. 
So the next months will be busy and I will send an update of all towards the end of January or so. The poor people love to share in these celebrations as it gives them a sense of dignity about their own worth and also reminds them that they are not totally abandoned and that they have a parish church now for the first time which they call their own. 
Everything that has happened since my arrival here, could not have been done without the huge support of all of you and may the infant Jesus of the Christmas season bless all of you and your families for such great generosity and goodwill towards looking out for those less well off than ourselves. Your prayers and financial support have been second to none and a real source of encouragement during my time here.
I will close for now and take the opportunity to wish you all of Gods blessings for the Advent and Christmas seasons and we will be thinking of each other and praying for each other in the time ahead.
 
Amigo siempre, Colm - Up Tipp.

18/12/2009
Crinkle Tidy Villages And Development Association

Church Gate Collection
Thanks to all who generously contributed to our recent church gate collection. This is an important source of funding to the Association and helps to defray regular expenses, such as maintenance and replacement of equipment, purchase of trees and flowers and insurance. 
Barrack Street Lighting
The heritage style lampposts are now in place on Barrack Street. This project would not have been possible without funding from Offaly Local Development Company Ltd and support from local people.  
The Association is working closely with Offaly County Council and the ESB to have the new lamps switched on and we hope to achieve this in the very near future. We will then be working to make progress on the removal of the old poles and overhead wiring.   
We wish to express our sincere thanks to all local residents and businesses for the great support received this year in our fund raising efforts. We also wish to thank the Offaly County Council engineers, supervisors and workers for their co-operation in assisting us in making progress with our objectives. Also thank you to our RSS team who did trojan work this year to keep the grass under control and filled dozens of bags of litter. Finally, thanks to all the householders who play their part by maintaining the public space outside their own homes. 

18/12/2009
Christmas Mass Times At St. Brendan's RC Church 

Christmas Eve - Vigil Mass at 9p.m.
Christmas Day - Masses at 8.30a.m., 10.30a.m., 12 Noon.
Church of the Annunciation, Carrig - Christmas Eve Vigil Mass at 8p.m., Christmas Day Mass at 9.30a.m. 
Confessions will be heard at St. Brendan's Church, Birr on Christmas Eve between 10.30a.m. to 12.30p.m. and 2p.m. to 4p.m. 
The Community Carol Service will be held in St Brendan's Church of Ireland Church on Sunday December 20th at 7.30p.m. This is the 40th anniversary of the first Ecumenical Service. The singing will be led by Birr Choral Society, who are also celebrating their 40th anniversary this year, and St Brendan's Community School Choir, will also be taking part.
The Parish Crib is on display and people should take some time to visit the crib and tell the story of Christmas to their children. 
Sunday Masses in Birr Parish are as follows: Saturday 7.30p.m. (Vigil), and Sunday 8.30a.m., 9.30a.m. (Carrig), 10.30a.m. and 12 Noon.  

18/12/2009
Golfing In The Glenns 

Special Offer
A special surprise for golf beginners is this year’s offer from Birr Golf Club. All first time golfers can now avail of 2010 single membership for €500 and family membership for €800. This is an exceptional offer to first timers who can avail of all the facilities of a very friendly club and take part in all the activities and competitions throughout the year. This is your opportunity to join one of the Midland’s finest golf courses. There is no entry fee and all details can be had from the office: (057) 912 0082.
Christmas Vouchers
Membership vouchers are available from Joan Grimes in the office. No doubt a voucher is a very acceptable Christmas present for your family and friends as subscription fees for 2010 are now due. Please ring (057) 912 0082 for further information.
Texting
The Club is in the process of seting up a texting service for members. We hope to have this up and running in the New Year. If you have not already done so, please give your mobile number to Francie Horan. 
Kevin McGrath
Kevin McGrath is offering great winter coaching for the members. Special gift voucher packages are available for Christmas. Call Kevin on (087) 237 9234 for more details.
Santa In Club
The House Committee are delighted to announce that Santa will be making his traditional visit to the Club on Friday December 18th at 6p.m. Since back in the ‘70s this has been one of the most enjoyable evenings of the year when children of all ages come to see Mr. and Mrs. Claus. So please come along and join in the fun.
Open 3-Ball Competition
An Open 3-Ball Competition is up and running until April 2010. The response has been very encouraging with a great turn-out over the past two weeks. The competition will be over 18 holes with the best two scores to count at each hole. The teams are composed of any combination ladies/gents and the competition is sponsored by Michael Horan of Birr Golf Shop and Driving Range, Callaway and Trackman. Three teams will qualify each month with the Grand Final in May 2010. Play will be from Monday to Saturday with the handicap limits of men/20 and ladies/30. Entry is €10 for members and €20 for visitors. This will be an exciting competition over the Winter and Spring and no doubt will prove attractive to all golfers. .
For Your Diary
Open 3 Ball. Any combination. Ongoing
14 Hole Hamper and 9 h Turkey. Ongoing.
Thursday 17th December; 10.15a.m. Seniors. Christmas Dinner at 7p.m. followed by music and craic. Contact John Gilmartin or Michael Ashe for booking.
Friday 18th December; 6p.m. Santa in Club. All welcome.
Wednesday 23rd December; 5p.m. Presentation of Hampers and Turkeys. Please come and collect.
Monday 28th December; Carrig and Riverstown Outing. 
Results
Winners of 9h Turkeys. Seamas Breen 24 pts. Dick Quinn, Pat Maher 23 pts. John Conniffe, Ger Gath, Padraig Moylan, Cormac Moylan and Michael Lyons 22 pts.
Seniors: 1st D. Johnston, S. Bergin, T. Nestor 36; 2nd D. Quinn, J. Hynes, J. Lynch 36.
Still awaiting confirmation from some members re attendance at dinner
Bridge: 1st Phonsie/Maura Kerrigan. 2nd Eileen Grogan/Phyllis Landy and Frank Doorley/Joanne Loughnane (tie)
Ladies’ Golf
Results: 4th Turkey – 9 Hole Stroke: 1st Jo Conniffe – 33 points, 2nd June Carroll 35.5, 3rd Patricia Guinan 36.5.
5th Turkey – V Par. 1st Lady Captain Kathleen Doorley 2 up, 2nd Liz Nolan 1 up, 3rd Kay Kelly All Square.
6th Turkey – Stroke – ongoing to next Saturday 19th December.
Party Sunday is next Sunday December 20th. Golf from 12 noon to 2p.m. A draw for partners will take place on Wednesday 16th December at 4p.m. Please have your name down prior to this if you wish to play golf on Party Sunday. The list if also posted in the Ladies’ Locker Room for the Party Sunday Evening Food. Please ensure you have your name down for food also.
Santa In The Glenns
Don’t forget that Santa will be in the Glenns on this Friday (December 18th) evening for all the little ones where Santa, Mrs. Claus and all their helpers will be on hand to ensure an enjoyable evening for all the children.

11/12/2009
Birr Chamber Urges People To Support Local Shops During Recession

Birr Chamber of Commerce President Adrian Haines has urged everyone to be patriotic about their town and shop here rather than going to larger towns or cities to do their Christmas shopping. He said 2009 has been a very difficult year for Birr's retailers because of the recession and they need the support of local people and to maintain jobs in the retail sector.
Another year has flown by and Adrian said the Chamber wished to acknowledge and thank all the individuals who had attended meetings throughout the year.
Like all voluntary organisations it is solely through the commitment of its members year after year that the Chamber is able to exist and function as a very important part of the community.
Adrian said the chamber was planning to drive business in the community through advertising campaigns, with its members, and also through dialogue with other groups locally.
2009 was not a happy time for the town's businesses with retailers suffering reduced returns. 
Birr Chamber firmly believes that Birr is a vibrant town which offers a wide range of facilities and shopping alternatives to rival any town.
Thanks to Birr Town Council we have two convenient free car parks at Wilmer Road and the Marian Hall within three minutes from the main shopping area.
With Christmas now upon us it is important to recognise what the businesses locally contribute to making this town come alive for the Festive season, not only through their generous contributions towards the Christmas lights in the town, but also through the decoration of their premises. The retailers try to make the Christmas shopping experience fun and accessible to all.
Adrian thanked all who took part in the recent Fashion Show. The night proved to be a great success and raised much funds for the Christmas lights.
Adrian said the Chamber plans to organise training courses for next year in conjunction with the Offaly Enterprise Board. These courses will be for retailers and business people and will include such subjects as Customer Care and Marketing, and business development.
Shops in Birr will be open seven days a week until later times during the period leading up to Christmas Day. The main retailers will be open on Sundays from 2p.m. to 6p.m.
Finally, Adrian thanks all shoppers for their support throughout the year and wished everyone a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

11/12/2009
Three In A Row For Cavanagh Foundry

For the third year in a row, and despite very strong competition, Cavanagh Foundry attained the 2009 NISO Midland Region award in October. 
Participation in the NISO awards competition allows Cavanagh Foundry benchmark the company’s performance at a national level. Each year entrants for the NISO awards include the leading Irish companies from all sectors including pharmaceutical, chemical, construction, manufacturing and service industries.  
The company has participated in the NISO annual Health & Safety awards on three occasions to-date. Their achievement in receiving major category awards on each of these occasions is testament to the commitment of all employees in providing a safer workplace. 

11/12/2009
Birr Review Will Be 'A Social Record Of Our Time' 

The 9th edition of the Birr Review was launched last Friday evening at Dooly's Hotel following the turning on of the Christmas lights at Emmet Square. The latest Review contains a total of 172 pages with nine separate sections of information, from stories of local events to clubs, groups and community meetings. It also reveals photographs both past and present that will no doubt prove a treasure to behold for future generations.
Acting MC and Editor of the Review, Michael Donegan commented, 'The Birr Review editions are like good wine - the older it gets the better it gets. I would just like to thank all those who contributed to the Review with stories, photos etc these are the people who make the Review what it is.'
Mr Donegan extended thanks to all those who contributed to the Review from the advertisers to those who contributed articles. In particular he thanked committee member Emer Dolphin Murray who was one of the main technical compositors of the Review. 'I think the time and energy that she has put into this Review is clearly reflected in the excellence of its presentation.' 
Mr Donegan also thanked those who contributed photographs namely Pat Cleary (Midland Tribune), Camillus King, Sean Hanniffy and the Cotter family. He thanked the hard working Birr Annual Review committee 2009 and also Enda Manzor and Tim Walsh for their help.
Mr Donegan emphasised crucially that the Review was a non profit venture and all monies obtained in excess of publication costs are redistributed back into the community through the Birr Lions Club.    
Launching the Review was Scout Master, Jack Ryan who in his own inimitable style remarked that there were over 44 clubs and organisations contributing to the publication. In particular he thanked the Lions Club. 'From my standpoint I have to pay a lot of credit to the Birr Lions Club who were always helpful. They were in fact the first organisation that helped us to organise the scouts here in Birr back in the 70s. I'm sure I speak on behalf of all the other clubs and organisations when I say to the Lions thank you very much.' 
Mr Ryan underpinned some of the vision behind the Review. 'Our hope is that at some stage these Reviews will act as a historical record of the past. Perhaps, as we hope, as the editions roll on in the years to come, people will be able to look back and see pictures and stories relating to their grandparents, relatives and friends. We hope it will be a social record of our time.'
Jack Ryan, who wrote an article in the Review on the Birr Post Office, 'A Brief history' was keen to relate some of the story to whet the appetite for those interested in the Review.
The Post office building at Emmet Square was constructed by John Hickey in 1903 and the article outlines some of the more interesting episodes and facts surrounding the post office's operations. As Mr Ryan commented, 'like so many of the stories in the Review they truly are a blast from the past.' The Post Office service has recently been relocated to Main Street in Birr. 
At the launch Jack Ryan related a humorous story regarding the manual telephone exchange at the Post office which closed down in 1984. This little anecdote was related to Jack at a recent Historical Society meeting. The story Jack recalled was about a particular individual who attempted to make a person to person call from Tokyo, Japan to Birr. The first problem he had to negotiate was trying to explain to the Japanese exchange operators that there was in fact no directory number in Birr. However, when he was in fact put through to Birr exchange from Tokyo a little surprise awaited him. 
As Jack explained the man was trying call his wife and told the Birr operator the number he was looking for, when the operator responded, 'Sorry Sir, She's not at home at the moment, but I see her coming across the street from the bank. If you wait a minute I will go and get her for you.' Classic Ireland of the past. As Jack pointed out all the operators seemed to know where everyone was.
Concluding the launch Cllr Tony McLoughlin, Chairman Birr Town Council, congratulated the hardworking review committee and in particular Michael Donegan who he described as a very meticulous person and ideal to edit the publication. Cllr McLoughlin re-iterated the point that the proceeds from the Review go back into the community in Birr. Cllr Mcloughlin thanked all who contributed to the Review but in particular extended a warm thank you to Birr Lions Club and their President Michael Coghlan and, indeed, to all the previous Presidents of the Lions Club who have supported the community for many years. 

11/12/2009
Calendar To Raise Funds For Birr Skate Park

The launch of the Birr Community Calendar 2010 in aid of the Skate Park funds was held last Friday evening at the Coffee shop in Dooly's Hotel. 
The Birr Community Calendar 2010 is currently on sale for €10 and will be available from the following outlets over the coming weeks. The Sk8 park committee provided musical entertainment and a slide show depicting a number of skating enthusiasts enjoying their sport, hitting some daring gravity defying aerials and flips.
The Committee will be selling the calendar on the following dates; Friday 11th December at Tesco’s from 11a.m. to 7p.m.. It will also be on sale from Saturday December 12th, Friday December 18th and Saturday December 19th from Londis, between the 10a.m. to 6a.m. on each of these dates.
The Sk8 park committee is continuing its enterprising work towards its dream and goal of providing Birr with a Skate park facility. As Ann Hynes Spain noted, the group have raised some €29,000 to date through a variety of events, including €1,500 which was raised via the Offaly VEC Youth Grant Scheme. The success of their community based calendar 2009 was a great highlight for the committee, so much so, that they decided to bring out a 2010 calendar.  
Speaking on behalf of his committee Isaac Smith and his colleague Damien Gormley stated that it was hard to fathom that it's been a year since they launched their first edition of the calendar. 'Last year's calendar proved a great success and we have produced an even better product this year, building on that success. We as a committee hope this year's calendar will be a delight with its pictures and scenes from Birr and its community.' 
The calendar's theme is a colourful look at the widespread variety of activities available throughout our community for all ages. As Isaac pronounced, 'We as a Committee are proud to be associated with this year's and last year's idea for this type of calendar which promotes the organisations and clubs in our Community. It shows the great skill, enthusiasm, fun, commitment and dedication of all involved.'
Isaac thanked a number of groups which helped to make their fundraising endeavours a reality. Amongst many the Sk8 committee thanked most sincerely the following for all their help and co-operation with this year’s calendar - Birr Active Retirement Club, Birr Lions Club, Birr Swimming Pool, Birr Social Club, Birr Vintage Week Committee, The Wolftrap Cycling Club, Sarah Molloy, School of Speech and Drama, Birr Scouts, Birr Fishing Club, Birr Bridge Club, Birr and Offaly Camogie Championns. Cliona O Brien who helped with the graphic design, Brendan, Paula and the staff at the Print Factory and Sharon Grant and her staff at Dooly’s Hotel for the venue, finger food and light refreshments. Thanks again to you all for your continued support and attendance here tonight.' 
Isaac added on behalf of his industrious committee a word of gratitude and sincere thanks to the management of both Londis and Tesco’s for the use of their premises for the above dates and also Supervalu for the use of their premises earlier on this week.

11/12/2009
Birr News Digest

Ecumenical Carol Service
This is a note to let everyone know that this year marks the 40th anniversary of the ecumenical carol service and also of Birr Choral Society. The service this year will be held on Sunday, 20th December, in St. Brendan's Church of Ireland, Oxmantown Mall, beginning at 7.30p.m. and all are very welcome.

4th Annual Birr GOAL Mile
The town of Birr is getting ready to stage it's 4th Annual GOAL mile on Christmas Day, starting at Emmet Square at 1p.m. Many top athletes have already confirmed their intention to run a fast mile, while most people will be content to exchange festive greetings and Walk and Talk their way around the course, as an expression of their support for the GOAL organisation, which is dedicated to helping the poorest of the poor in the developing world.
So, come on out and join in the Fun. All your friends will be there, there will be Music and Craic, and a nice hot beverage at the end, courtesy of the County Arms Hotel. Do good, feel good.
Looking forward to seeing  you in the Emmet Square before 1p.m., and please wear something Festive.  

Wilmer Tennis Club
The annual Christmas tournament was held on this Friday last and it turned out to be a very enjoyable night. Despite the inclement weather, a large crowd turned out to play in the tournament, which was won by J.P. Savy and Jacquie Jordan, who defeated Liam Cashen and Catherine Barry in the final. There was plenty of seasonal cheer in the clubhouse, which was suitably decorated for the occasion. Well done to everyone who organised the night and helped to make it a success.
The prizes for the Club Championships were also presented on Friday night. J.P Savy won the men's singles and became the first recipient of the Michael Delaney Memorial Cup, with Ann Delaney making the presentation on the night. Brian Mullins was the runner up. Christine Bruce defeated Therese Haverty in the Ladies Singles final. The men's doubles winners were Brian Mullins and Paul Smith and runners up were Jim Bob O''Donoghue and Joe Harding. Suzanne Dwyer and Sinead Watkins were the ladies doubles winners with Margaret Feeney and Jacquie Jordan as runners up. Brian Mullins and Siobhan Smyth won the mixed doubles with John Lynch and Sinead Watkins as runners up.

Birr Book Club
The next book club meeting will be held on Monday the 14th of December. The book for this month is 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak (chosen by Maureen).

Foot Health Practitioner
Foot health practitioner for all your foot needs. Do you suffer from corns, callus, athlete's foot, fungal infections? Call Anne Sherlock, RGN, SAC, Dip FHPT, SAC, Dip FHPP. Registered member of Chiropody/Podiatry Association. Available evenings and Saturdays. Phone (086) 2113494. (Advert).

Santa Is Coming To Frawley's Superstore
Santa will be coming to Frawley's Superstore on Saturday 12th December from 12 noon to 6p.m. For more details see in store or telephone (087) 7649804. All boys and girls are welcome. Special family concessions.

Birr Historical Society
Birr Historical Society will have a pictorial view of their two seminars when Jack Ryan will show photos at the next meeting on Monday 14th of December at 8p.m. in Dooly's Hotel.

Christmas Trees For Sale
Christmas trees for sale at Ward's Garden Centre, Tullamore Road, Birr. Also pots of paper-white daffodils and Christmas decorations. Tel (086) 3051697. (Advert)

Friends Of Children Of Chernobyl
The Friends Of Children Of Chernobyl wish to thank all the people who very kindly donated cakes for their cake sale and also all those who supported them by buying on the day. They raised €1,060 towards Vadzim's operation. Also a big thank you to those who helped on the day in every way.

Birr Methodist Church
The annual Christmas Sale will be held this Friday 11th December in the former Junior Junction shop, Main Street (by kind permission of Buckley's Super Valu) from 10a.m. to 4p.m. Cakes, jam, holly, crafts, etc. Any support would be appreciated.

Services For Deaf And Hard Of Hearing People
On Wednesday 16th December, at the Old Health Centre, Johns Terrace, Birr, from 10am to 1p.m., this is a free service where you can get advice about hearing aids, equipment for your home to help you hear the doorbell, phone, smoke alarm, television. Also information on Irish Sign Language, Tinnitus and Lip-reading. 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. Appointments can be made for a private consultation for hearing aids in Tullamore; hearing aids are competitively priced at €950 or €1,250 each, or you can phone 1800 256 257. 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 . 

Guide Dogs For The Blind
Christmas Cards & Calendars in aid of Irish Guide Dogs for the blind are available from Mary Burns (057) 91 25676, Arnold Walsh (087) 6114373 (Lorrha) & Ann Hogan of Hogans Pub, Market Square, Birr.

St Pio Mass
St Pio Mass will be celebrated in St Brendan's Church, Birr on Tuesday December 15th at 7.30p.m. Rosary at 7.15p.m.

Busy Bodies Christmas Play
Busy Bodies Christmas play takes place in Carrig Hall on Sunday December 13th at 3p.m. All donations given at the door will be given to the Spina Bifida Association and Duchenne Ireland (Muscular Dystrophy). If you want a laugh, why not go along and support these little people.

Ladies Hockey Moves Indoors
Every Tuesday for the coming months, hockey for fun and fitness comes indoors to the Sportshall at St. Brendan's Community School, Birr. All new and past players are very welcome and equipment is supplied, just bring clean dry runners. The indoor game is similar to the full game except that the push is used in place of the hit and the ball may not rise ay any time. It is a fast game and coach Dervilla Kirwan gives a great workout each night, finishing with a game.
So a date for your diary: 7.15p.m. to 8.45p.m., Tuesdays, Sportshall, Community School, Birr. More info: (087) 2836675  

Birr Parent And Toddler Group
Christmas is here!! Birr Parent and Toddler group meet every Tuesday morning 10.15a.m.-12:30p.m. in the Family Resource Centre in Glebe Street. Next Tuesday 15th December, Santa is coming! There's lots of fun and toys for your toddlers and babies. Come and have a coffee while getting to know other parents and guardians. Cost is €5 per family this week. They will be back after Christmas on 12th January. Merry Christmas everyone!

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. Also there are Heneghan's Nursery and Athenry Foods. (Advert).
 
Birr Photography Group
Christmas Party Night: Wednesday 9th December from 8p.m. in Haverty’s Pub, Moorpark Street, Birr. Come along and celebrate Birr Photography Groups 1st anniversary. New members always welcome. Call Joe on (087) 657 4820 or online at www.birrphotogroup.org for more information.
 
Ballyegan Gardening Club Diaries
Ballyegan Gardening Club will celebrate the festive season on Wednesday 9th December at 8p.m. in Ballyegan Hall. Majella's Flowers will do their Christmas Presentation. €10 per person. Mulled Wine & Mince Pies served on the night. All Welcome.
 
Ramblers In Eireann
On Saturday 19th December, enjoy a great night out at the Ramblers Christmas Dinner at the Thatch, Crinkle. €50. Names and money are now being taken by Sinead at tel. (057) 91 23794 (H); (086) 05 48143 (M) after 6pm.
 
Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
Santa’s Magical Christmas takes place on both Thursday 10th and Friday 11th December. This musical fantasy full of fun, singing and dancing is the perfect kick-off to Christmas and early booking is highly recommended!
Nutcracker, the fairy-tale ballet with original music by Tchaikovsky is the culmination of the hard work throughout the Autumn semester by Offaly Youth Dance, First Footing, Yummy Dance and a number of adults.
The wonderful Oxmantown Singers perform their sixth annual show on Sunday 13th December with a programme that features music favourites from the worlds of opera and musicals along with a selection of Irish music. All proceeds from this concert go to local charities.  
Organised and produced by Legitimate Bodies Dance Company, I.F.O.N.L.Y., a contemporary dance festival dedicated to solo is an incredible opportunity to see some of the best dance artists from Ireland and abroad. Come along and be surprised by the amazing beauty, breathless expertise, enchanting atmosphere and provoking twists of this wonderful programme.
Brake-Thru, on Friday 18th December showcases young emerging bands before they break through onto the national music scene, this could be your chance to say 'I heard them when they started!'
The new Theatre programme for January, February & March will be available over the coming days - be sure to pick up your copy! 
Don’t Forget: Birr Theatre & Arts Centre are looking forward to welcoming their 100,000th Patron before Christmas – the lucky individual will receive a beautiful bouquet of flowers, a bottle of champagne, Friends Membership of the Theatre for 2010 along with two tickets to an event of the winner’s choice during each quarter. Have you got your ticket yet????
Box office opens 1p.m.-5.30p.m. Monday-Friday. (057) 9122911 or check out www.birrtheatre.com for further details.

CRK Active Retirement Group
Carrig Riverstown and Killeen Active Retirement Group will hold their next meeting in Carrig Community Hall on Monday December 14th at 7.30p.m. All members are requested to attend. This will also be the party night. Bowling every Thursday evening at 6.30p.m.

Strawberry Hill Antiques
Strawberry Hill Antiques & Fine Jewellery, Main Street Banagher. Christmas opening times are Thursday to Saturday 12 noon to 5p.m. Sunday 2-5p.m. or by appointment (087) 2941597. New, exclusive and unusual giftware at affordable prices (Advert).

The Bandstand Christmas Specials
The Bandstand, Market Square, Birr, Christmas specials - Casio lk-230 keyboard 149, also 22% off all Stagg electric guitars. Great Christmas ideas (See Advert).

Blood Transfusion Clinic
The Irish Blood Transfusion Service will be holding a clinic in Birr next week. They will be in the Marian Hall, Birr on Thursday December 17th from 2.30p.m. to 4.45p.m. and 7p.m. to 9.30p.m. and on Friday December 18th from 10.30p.m. to 12.30p.m. and 2.30p.m. to 4.45p.m. Give blood and join Ireland's most extraordinary club.

Dooly's Hotel Christmas Party
Last minute availability for Saturday 19th December. Christmas Party, €39 for meal, live music & DJ. Call Dooly’s Hotel on (057) 9120032.

Coffee Morning
A coffee morning has been arranged for Sunday 13th December in Whigsborough House Fiveally Birr from 11.00a.m. to 2.00p.m. Proceeds in aid of Offaly Domestic Violence Support Service. Come and enjoy refreshments in a relaxing atmosphere. Meet the service providers, find out about the service or maybe you would like to become a volunteer For further information contact ODVSS (057) 93 51796.
 
Women Return To Learning Programme
Co. Offaly VEC will run a part-time 'Women Return to Learning' programme in Scurragh Community Centre from January to June 2010. The aim of this Programme is to improve access to training and education by giving women the confidence and skills to take the next step on the educational ladder. The Programme will run two mornings per week (Monday & Wednesday) and is free of charge. Subjects covered include Food & Cookery, Computers, Personal Development, Colour Me Beautiful, Parenting, Budgeting and many other subjects. For further information, please contact Alison/ Margaret in Co. Offaly VEC on (057) 9352280
 This Programme is financially supported by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform through the Equality for Women Measure, the National Women’s Strategy and the European Social Fund (ESF)
 
Santa's Visit To Log Cabin
It's that time of year again and we can now tell all the boys and girls from Birr Scouts and Cubs that we have just received confirmation about a very special visit from Santa Claus. He will be arriving at the Log Cabin on Sunday 20th December around 2.30p.m., but as usual, this will depend on weather conditions from the North Pole. He has told us that he is really looking forward to seeing all the good boys and girls from The 3rd Offaly Cub Scout and Scout group, along with their family members. He was very sad to hear about the damage to the Log Cabin and is really looking forward to seeing the newly refurbished Cabin. He is really impressed with all the hard work the adults have done to make sure it is all spick and span for his visit this year. Everyone at Birr Scouts would like to express our very grateful thanks to all who have helped us in our fundraising for the repair to the Log Cabin. The kindness and generosity shown to us by local businesses and the local people was exceptional and is gratefully appreciated by everyone concerned, not least of all by the boys and girls who still have their very special Log Cabin back for their use again. All the Leaders and the Parents Committee would like to take this opportunity to thank all the parents who attended the recent AGM. The great turnout is appreciated by the Leaders and the outgoing Committee who were delighted to see so many new faces. The Leaders and the Committee would also like to take this opportunity to wish all the Venture Scouts, Scouts, Cub Scouts and their families a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year
 
Mount Melleray Conference
Scout Patrol Leaders and Venture Scouts attended the Scouting conference in Mount Melleray Scout Centre last weekend from Friday 4th December until Sunday 6th December. During their stay they took part in Forums, Challenges and had a talk on the 22nd World Scout Jamboree in Sweden during the summer of 2011. Loads of information to pass onto their fellow scouts on Wednesday night and, of course, something to look forward to in 2011!

Birr Social Club
Teams snooker tournament in aid of the Birr Community Nursing Unit is heading towards the final stages at Birr Social Club. Results: Quarter finals: J. Corrigans beat J Rylands 4-1, POCG beat The Sunrise Inn 4-1. The last quarter final will be played this week between Emma's Café and Buckley's Super Valu. The first semi-final will be played on Saturday night between J. Corrigan's and Miley's.
Congratulations to the SK8 Park Committee on their excellent presentation of next year's calendar.

Highfield Utd Lotto
Numbers drawn in this week's Highfield United lotto were 5, 19, 20 and 21. No Jackpot winner or no match three winner. Five names drawn receive €30 each: John Joe O'Rourke, c/o Jimmy Kelly, Paula McGarry, c/o Palace Bar, Kathleen Kelly, c/o C&P, Gina Hehir, c/o Noel and Geraldine Kelly. Turkey winner: Shamie Brien, 32 Presentation Place. Ham winner: Sean and Daisy, c/o Palace Bar. Next week's Jackpot is €10,500 and the draw takes place in Nolan's. Thanks to the Palace Bar and everybody who supports the lotto every week.

Birr Town Lotto
Numbers drawn in the Birr Town FC lotto this week were 6, 7, 8, 28. Bonus number 15. No jackpot winner or no match three. Five names drawn receive €40 each: Johnny C, c/o John Cahill; Paul Johnson, Emmet Street; Bridgeen Martin, 13 Cappaneale; Richie Nolan, 21 New Road; Mikey Cunniffe, c/o 20 Cappaneale. Turkey winner: Winnie Kavanagh, c/o JK. Ham winner: Anne OC Rowan, c/o PJ. Next week's jackpot: €4,600 and with bonus number €7,600. Draw in Sunrise Inn Monday December 14th. Thanking all for their continued support.

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. Lots of side prizes also to be won. Calling as usual 8.30p.m. sharp. 
Progressive 25 Drive: Top prize and Jackpot winners on Sunday night with 15 games were Joe Kerins and Frank Mulvey. Congratulations. One pair had 12 games Pat Craven and Kieran Guinan while lucky 10s were Teresa Bennett and M. Kelly, Joe Cantwell and Peter Darcy. The last game went to Michael Burke and P.J. Nevin while Bertie Coleman and Tim Hough won the table prize. Raffle prize winners were Mary Kerins, Tony Larkin and Joe Cantwell. Cards continue on Sunday night with a Jackpot of €100 on 14 games. 9p.m. sharp.

Social Dancing In Carrig Hall
Social Dancing in Carrig Hall will take place on Thursday December 17th. Music by Brian McDermott 9.30p.m. to 12.30am. Christmas draw and refreshments served.

Birr Mart
Bullocks: 1 lim 405 €645, 1 lim 425 kgs €710, 2 AA 595 kgs €840, 1 her 600 kgs €835, 2 her 403 kgs €590, 1 lim 515 kgs €800, 2 ch 503 €765, 1 lim 640 €930, 2 her 595 €890, 1 bb 455 €700. 
Heifers: 2 ch 530 €830, 1 ch 505 kgs €850, 1 ch 550 kgs €800, 1 ch 464kgs €695, 1 ch 540 kgs €865, 1 ch 690 €1,040, 1 sim 500 €820, 1 lim 415 €620, 3 lim 240 €390, 2 lim 423 €645. 
Dry Cows: 1 ch 920 kgs €1,105, 1 fr 665 kgs €620, 1 ch 905 €1,065, 2 fr 595 €540. 
Final cattle sale of 2009: Next Monday 14th December and first sale of 2010 on Monday 18th of January.

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 John (086) 8033126 or (057) 9351124. Website: www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Sue Ryder Foundation
The Sue Ryder Foundation is the largest provider of accommodation for the elderly in the country. They support this activity through their charity shop in Birr. If you have clothes or furniture to donate for the support of their work, contact them on (057) 91 21227 or call to the shop.

Birr Parent And Toddler Group
Birr Parent and Toddler group meet every Tuesday morning 10.30a.m.-12.30p.m. in the Family Resource Centre in Glebe Street. Lots of fun and toys for your toddlers and babies, come and have a coffee while getting to know other parents and guardians. Cost is €3 per family. See you there!

St Brendan's Athletic Club
 Athletic training every Monday evening 5.30p.m. - 6.30p.m. in Birr Rugby Club House. Fee €2. New members always welcome.
 

11/12/2009
Birr GOAL Mile - Let's Do It For Darren 

The 4th Annual GOAL Mile in Birr gets underway from Emmet Square at 1p.m. on Christmas Day. Since its inception in 2006, supporters of the GOAL mile in Birr have donated a staggering €40,090, much to the delight of local Treasurer Margaret Hensey and Chief executive of GOAL John O'Shea, who started the humanitarian organisation as a sports journalist 32 years ago. John is amazed that, per head of population, supporters in Birr have contributed more than any provincial town in Ireland. 
In a recent speech celebrating the release of Sharon Cummins from captivity in Darfur, John said: 'In good times and bad, two things have remained constant, the generosity of the Irish people and the unstinting commitment of our workers in the Third world.' 
GOAL is dedicated to the alleviation of suffering, among the poorest of the poor, in the developing world, those affected by war and by natural disasters, such as flood, earthquakes, landslides and droughts - resulting in famine and death. 
In its great humanitarian work, GOAL is helped by volunteers such as Birr Civil Engineer Darren Hanniffy, who give of their time, energy and expertise to help the most vulnerable in our unequal world. Great credit is due to Darren, who is currently working in Honduras, an underdeveloped country. Darren hopes to fly home on Christmas Eve to be with us at the start of the GOAL mile on Christmas Day. 
Among the athletes taking part this year will be former Olympic 200m and 400m runner Gordon Kennedy, Leinster Schools 3000m champion Liam Brady and of course Birr athletes Michael Verney, Stephen Lonergan and Sean Ryan as well as GOAL Patron, Millennium man Brian Whelahan. 
"The young, the old, the brave and the bold 
Christian duties they will fulfill 
and all will join in Emmet Square 
In festive joy and thrill.' 
Again you are assured of good music from members of Birr Choir as well as the MacDara Deery Yuletide Band, and what nicer way for the adults to celebrate after the walk than with a nice hot beverage courtesy of the County Arms, Hotel. 
So let's Do Good, Feel Good, and Do It For Darren. Give Others A Life and please wear something festive.  

11/12/2009
Birr And South Offaly Community Health Needs Assessment

Last Wednesday evening in the Marian Hall the public was updated on the progress of the Birr and South Offaly Community Health Needs Assessment which has been taking place in the area over the last few months.
The project is a joint initiative between the communities in the area, Birr Primary Care Team, HSE and the Offaly Local Development Company. The aim of the initiative is to establish what are the positive and negative impacts on people’s health in South Offaly and to establish what changes people would like to see happen to make the area a healthier place to live. The findings of the research, which is at draft stage, is already outlining a number of defects that need addressing.
The project focuses on the ‘social model’ of health which acknowledges that most of the factors that impact on our health lie outside the remit of health services. This proposes simply that if we want healthier communities and individuals, focus needs to be placed on the broad range of factors that determine our health e.g. education, the environment, employment etc.
During the presentation that was given at the Marian Hall by the working group that oversees the project ,studies and surveys were outlined from some sixteen groups which have been consulted to date in the area. These included amongst others youth, elderly, non Irish, unemployed and people with a mental disability.
The findings of the project discovered that a range of needs have been identified such as access to information on services and entitlements, the need for additional youth facilities/supports in the area and supports for older people living alone in the area.
The next steps in the project will be to prioritise some projects that a group of volunteers in the area can work on to address these needs over the coming years. Work will commence on this in January. It will be necessary for this group to work with local support agencies to make the South Offaly area a healthier place to live.
It is expected that this group will work closely with the Birr Primary Care Team and in time, with the planned Shinrone/Moneygall Primary Care Team.
For further information on this project please contact Birr Primary Care Team on (057) 9125 857 or Offaly Local Development Company on (057) 9151 622.

11/12/2009
Birr Comhaltas AGM

The members of the Birr Branch of Comhaltas held their annual general meeting recently and had a very active year to review. There were successful reports from outgoing secretary Donal Morrissey and treasurer Mary Darcy. Highlight of the year was the annual Set Dancing Festival which continues to go from strength to strength, attracting dancers from all parts of Ireland as well as overseas. This is due in large part to the high standard of the tuition provided in the various workshops and the excellence of the bands chosen to provide the music for the Ceilis. As the treasurer reported the event was also a success financially thanks to some generous local sponsorship.
The members recognise that the most important work of the organisation is the passing on of the tradition and this is being done through the weekly music class conducted by Olivia Douglas and set class by Donal Morrissey. It is encouraging to note that, of late, there has been an increasing interest in both but numbers still fall far short of what might be expected in a town the size of Birr. The annual concert continues to bring top class entertainers to Birr Theatre and Arts Centre as well as giving local artists an opportunity to showcase their talents, a fact which is appreciated by the public by providing a full house each year.
As a consequence of a generous grant received from through the Comhaltas development programme the branch was able to organise an excellent workshop. This was held in St. Brendan’s NS and brought a number of the leading music and singing tutors to impart their knowledge to a large number of pupils from the county.
Members of the branch played their part in helping to organise the All Ireland Fleadh in Tullamore and the county Fleadh in Rahan as well as making a significant contribution to the funds of the latter.
The following officers were elected for the coming year: Chairman Padraig Kinsella; Vice Chairman Andy Masterson; Secretary Donal Morrissey; Treasurer Mary Darcy; PRO Padraig Duffy; Auditor Helena Spain; Youth Officer Olivia Douglas; Delegates to Co. Board Andy Masterson, Mary Darcy, Donal Morrissey; Committee: Tom Douglas, Sean Brown, Nan Grimes, Aoife Kinsella, Tony Molloy, Frances Teehan.
  Tributes were paid to the outgoing Chairman Jim Kinsella who was appointed President of the branch
Thanks were returned to various people and organisations who facilitated the branch during the year, including The Marian Hall for facilities for the music class, The County Arms Hotel for meeting facilities and The Midland Tribune for generous coverage to all branch activities.
The next event on the agenda is the monthly youth session which the branch will host on behalf of the County Board in the County Arms Hotel on Sunday 13th December commencing at 4.00pm. It will be followed on Monday 4th January by the annual Feile na Nollag also in The County Arms Hotel.

11/12/2009
Spirit Of Christmas Alive And Well In Birr Castle 

Birr Castle has once again shown its support for the local community by joining forces with Midlands Simon Community to help raise some much needed funds towards the fight against homelessness.
On this Saturday 12th December Birr Castle Demesne are hosting a wonderful Christmas Coffee Morning from 11a.m. until 1.00p.m. in the coffee shop in the courtyard. 
Come along and sample all the delights of Christmas and sample all the goodies on offer in Birr Castle and also show your support for those experiencing homelessness.
All donations received at the coffee morning will go directly to the Midlands Simon Community and their fight to eliminate homelessness right across the Midlands. The funds raised will also assist those who have had to leave their homes as a result of the recent flooding which has been so devastating for so many people.  
Midlands Simon Community helps people to move out of homelessness by providing emergency accommodation, supporting people to source suitable accommodation, assisting people to move into their new home and providing a range of supports to people to help people maintain their new home. Midlands Simon also helps people to overcome the many other issues faced by those who are homeless such as health and welfare needs, poverty, loneliness and isolation.   
Cormac P Lally, Development Officer, Midlands Simon Community, said 'This is a fantastic opportunity for people to show solidarity with some of the most vulnerable and marginalised people in our society this Christmas. I would like to sincerely thank Lord and Lady Rosse, Jacquie Jordan and all in Birr Castle for choosing Midlands Simon to benefit from this fantastic initiative. Without this type of support, and the goodwill and generosity of the wider community we simply could not survive. It is wonderful to see that the true meaning and spirit of Christmas is alive and well especially in these very difficult times. It goes to show what can be achieved by working together.'

11/12/2009
Santa And His Elves Visit Birr Castle Demesne

Santa and his Elves return to the Magical Winter Gardens to spread Christmas cheer from 10th-15th December. The grounds will feature beautiful twinkling fairy lights, festive music, face painting and more. Children will have the chance to meet Father Christmas and his team of merry elves and receive a special Christmas present. Please note this is an outdoor event, so wrap up warm! Booking is essential on (057) 91 20336. Children €15 and Adults €2.

11/12/2009
Comhaltas Youth Event

Each month the youth wing of Offaly Comhaltas organises a session of traditional music, singing and dancing at a different venue throughout the county. The Birr Branch has been chosen to host the December event and this will take place in The County Arms Hotel on Sunday afternoon next Commencing at 4.00p.m.
Although this is organised by the youth group, it is not exclusively for youth and adult musicians have a very important role to play in encouraging the youth. All young people in the area, whether they are performers or not, are invited to come along and enjoy a couple of hours of Irish entertainment. The same, of course, applies to adults.

11/12/2009
Golfing In The Glenns 

Club AGM
The Club AGM, a lively affair, was held on Tuesday 1st December. The Secretary’s report was given by Tony Hogan while David McDowell gave a thorough explanation of the accounts. David noted that due to the closure of some of the course’s fairways and holes during the recent developments, our finances had been affected. He noted with the full course in operation since May he had seen a significant increase in income and expected the trend to continue. He was certain that we should see an increase in membership this year and that societies will be keen to experience our newly developed course.
Outgoing Captain Tom Rigney thanked the various staffs with special thanks for our course staff who had to keep the course in shape during extraordinarily difficult weather conditions. Tom also thanked the Committees and especially Lady Captain Mary Sullivan for all her hard work over the year. He then introduced incoming Presidents David McDowell and Doreen McKenna and incoming Captains Bernard Kennedy and Kathleen Doorley.
The Management Committee for 2010 is: Presidents David McDowell and Doreen McKenna, Captains Bernard Kennedy and Kathleen Doorley, Vice Captains Joe Slevin and Tori Baker, Hon. Sec. Tony Hogan, Hon. Treas. David McDowell, Liam Delaney, Ann Frawley, Michael Horan, John Irwin, Ann McIntyre, Bernie McTague, Tom Rigney.
Santa In Club
The House Committee are delighted to announce that Santa will be making his traditional visit to the Club on Friday December 18th at 6p.m. Since back in the ‘70s this has been one of the most enjoyable evenings of the year when children of all ages come to see Mr. Claus. So please come along and join in the fun.
Open 3-Ball Competition
An Open 3-Ball Competition is up and running until April 2010. The response has been very encouraging with a great turn-out over the past two weeks. The competition will be over 18 holes with the best two scores to count at each hole. The teams are composed of any combination ladies/gents and the competition is sponsored by Michael Horan of Birr Golf Shop and Driving Range, Callaway and Trackman. Three teams will qualify each month with the Grand Final in May 2010. Play will be from Monday to Saturday with the handicap limits of men/20 and ladies/30. Entry is €10 for members and €20 for visitors. This will be an exciting competition over the winter and spring and no doubt will prove attractive to all golfers. The result of the November competition is available this week.
For Your Diary
14h Hamper and 9h turkey ongoing.
3 Ball Open Competition ongoing.
Thursday 10th December; 10.15a.m. Seniors.
Thursday 17 December; Seniors’ Christmas Dinner.
Friday 18th December; 6.00p.m. Santa in Club.
Results
Open 3 Ball November Qualifiers. 1st John Kelly, John Conniffe, Thady Clancy 89 pts. (43 on last 9); 2nd Enda Carroll, Matt Feenane, Michael Nolan 89pts. (40 on last 9); 3rd Terry O’Connor, Mike Gilligan, Sean Grady (Ballinasloe) 78 pts.
Seniors
Thursday December 3rd; 1st J. Wims, J. Lynch, C. McGarry, D. Kealy 25; 2nd M. Ashe, B. Wilks, B. Dermody, A. Joyce 26. 
Re Christmas Dinner on Thursday December 17th; Names to be given to Mick Ashe (057) 912 1316 or John Gilmartin (086) 875 9258 as soon as possible.
Golf as usual Thursday at 10.15a.m.
Membership
Membership of the Glenns is now open for the 2010 season. Now is the time to apply and join a friendly and active club with a wide range of facilities. There is no entry fee and all details can be had from the office. (057) 912 0082.
Christmas Vouchers
Membership vouchers are available from Joan in the office. No doubt a voucher is a very acceptable Christmas present for your family and friends. Please ring (057) 912 0082 for further information. Members should also note that subscription invoices are being posted at at present.
Texting
The Club is in the process of setting up a texting service for members. We hope to have this up and running in the New Year. If you have not already done so, please give your mobile number to Francie Horan. 
Kevin McGrath
Kevin McGrath is offering great winter coaching for the members. Special gift voucher packages are available for Christmas. Call Kevin on (087) 237 9234 for more details.
Sympathy
The members extend deepest sympathy to John Gilmartin and his family on the recent death of his sister Marie Donovan in Sligo. 

4/12/2009
Birr Review Is Now In The Shops

Birr Review 2009 is now in the shops. It is packed with all the news of people and events in Birr over the past year. 
As usual it features reports on the activities of the many clubs and organizations that contribute to the life of the town, as well as many articles about personalities who live in and about the town. Birr people abroad have contributed accounts of life in places as diverse as China, South America, USA, Italy, Africa and New Zealand.
The work of local photographers present and past is dotted throughout the book and many of the photographs will reawaken memories of people and times now sadly past. 
All the people who have died in Birr during the past year are commemorated in a special obituary section. 
The school photograph pages which feature National School starters and finishers for 2009 will surely prove a valuable record in future years. There is also a beautiful full-colour page spread showing many of the newlywed couples who tied the knot during the year.
The Birr Review editorial committee has worked hard at the task of compiling the book over the past few months and are absolutely delighted with the final result. They are very grateful for the support they have received from everyone who has purchased the Review in the past and are confident that their regular customers will not be disappointed with this year’s issue. 
Birr Review is a completely non-profit venture and all proceeds from the sale of the book go to Birr Lions for their charitable causes. Birr Lions are extremely grateful for the support they receive from the local businesses which contribute to the costs of production through their advertising sponsorship. 
Over the years the book has proved a very welcome Christmas gift for Birr people abroad or living elsewhere in Ireland as it helps them to keep abreast of all the latest from their home town. It retails at €10 and is to be found in shops throughout the town. Please note that due to the cost of production a limited amount of copies are published and The Review is usually sold out each year. 
The ‘Birr Review 2009’ will be officially launched by Mr. Jack Ryan in Dooly’s Hotel on Friday next December 4th after the official turning on of the Christmas lights. All are welcome.4/12/2009
Calling All Offaly GOAL Mile Enthusiasts!

Offaly people of all ages are gearing up to run, walk or crawl a Mile for GOAL this Christmas in Birr and Tullamore.
Toddlers, teenagers and all those young at heart will have the opportunity to join in the festive fun in Birr and Tullamore and raise as much money as possible for GOAL’s many life-saving projects in the Developing World.
Now in its 28th year, the annual GOAL fundraiser has become an integral part of Christmas for thousands of people and families across the country. Last year, GOAL Miles were held at 72 locations nationwide and generated over €370,000 for the poorest of the poor.
And the event promises to be even bigger this year, with new GOAL Miles scheduled for places such as Rosslare, Leixlip, Kenmare, Listowel and Kells.
'The GOAL Mile is always a very popular community event and a wonderful way for people in Offaly to show their support for the world’s most vulnerable children and families this Christmas,' said GOAL CEO, John O’Shea.
This year’s Offaly GOAL Miles take place at Emmet Square, Birr (Christmas Day, 1 p.m.) and Tullamore Harriers Running Ground (Christmas Day, 10 a.m.).
The first GOAL Mile was the brainchild of former GOAL chairperson and international athlete Noel Carroll and took place in the Phoenix Park in 1982. Since then, it has grown to become one of GOAL’s most successful annual fundraisers.
To find out more information about your local GOAL Mile, please visit www.goal.ie or call GOAL on (01) 2809779.4/12/2009
Ceramic Art Project Launched At St Brendan's CS

The launch of the St. Brendan's Community School Ceramic project took place last Friday evening it the school, which was pleasantly adorned with a wonderful display of brightly coloured pottery. 
Transition year students took part in creating these eye catching abstract pottery pieces under the guidance of arts teacher Yvonne Claffey and ceramic artist Niamh Hickey. Derek West (National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals) made a special presentation of a certificate to Yvonne Claffey, Arts Department St. Brendan's Community School, on behalf of the NAPD for creative engagement. 
The pieces have a dual function acting both as works of art in the form of colourful abstract sculptures but also as dwellings in the form of bird baths. One is immediately struck by the contrast of the scene. Enclosed behind glass panes with their dark ebony coloured borders emerges a peaceful scene with young trees surrounded by brightly coloured ceramics pieces on stands. As Derek West (NAPD) remarked, 'whether intended or not the effect is quite striking, Japanese almost, delivering a touch of an oriental flavour to the two main entrances of the school.' 
Principal Tom Foley remarked that encouraging the arts in the schools was underpinned through the formation of the National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals whose goals can be clearly seen in the works portrayed in the school today, and indeed in other schools throughout the country. 
Mr Foley himself was amongst the founders of this association which was set up back in the late 70s to try to bolster funding for the arts within the Irish educational system. The arts, as Mr Foley commented, are clearly so dominant in Irish culture and society, but back in the 70s this scene was not very well reciprocated in the schools. 'As a consequence we set out to further bring the arts to the forefront of secondary education in the Irish educational system - a somewhat ambitious project that started small but eventually led to the newly formed NAPD in securing funding from the department for their proposed programme for the creative arts. This entailed bringing into the school an Artist who would work in tandem with the school's Art department with a specific goal or project in mind. 
The current project undertaken by Transition Year students encapsulated that vision and received funding for an out of school artist to take part in training and directing art classes within the school along with Arts teacher, Yvonne Claffey. 
As Mr Foley pointed out, 'Arts has a central role to play in education as it helps to create bonds amongst the students, nothing could demonstrate that more clearly than the success of the recent school show 'Grease' this year.'
Mr Foley added that this project also marks a year of celebration for the school as it is 30 years since its foundation. 'We are currently expanding the school with building underway for three new classrooms and a music department.' 
Yvonne Claffey thanked the NAPD for the sponsorship of this project and their support throughout the project. In particular she thanked the great enthusiasm displayed by the students who attended after class in the evenings to see the project through to its completion.
'You can be very proud of the pieces you have created here.' On a contemplative note she added, 'Who knows perhaps they may be still here when your children attend the school in years to come?' Yvonne thanked all members of staff who support the project and Romaquip who generously supplied the stands or plinths on which the pieces have been placed. 
Yvonne attended college with artist Niamh Hickey and thanked her for her tremendous input into the project. 'I think that the work created here is a credit and testament to you and the enthusiasm and endeavours of the Transition year students.'

4/12/2009
Cars Vandalised On Birr Street

Two cars were vandalised on Emmet Street, Birr, on Sunday night last.
The cars belonged to residents of the street and windscreen wipers were pulled off the vehicles.
The Gardaí are looking at CCTV to try and discover the culprit(s) and are asking any possible witnesses to telephone the Station at (057) 91 20016.

4/12/2009
Turning On Christmas Lights
The Christmas lights turning on ceremony will be on Friday 4th December at 5.30p.m. Bring the children for a fun evening. Free mulled wine and mince pies at Dooly's Hotel.
 
Birr Chamber Of Commerce
Birr Chamber of Commerce will hold the December meeting on Thursday 3rd December at 9p.m. in The County Arms Hotel. Agenda includes Tom Ryan talk on Marketing. Hope to see you all there.
 
Free Management And Marketing Training
Birr Chamber of Commerce have arranged a 'Unique Training Programme for Retailers' afternoon with O'Maille Group Management & Training Consultants. The event is free, and is designed to help business achieve their potentional in sales and marketing during these difficult times. Contact Sinead Ryan on (057) 9120111 to book a place.
 
Wilmer Tennis Club
The annual Christmas tournament will be held on this Friday December 4th at 7.30p.m. So come along for the last big night of the year at the tennis club. Dress up in festive gear, enjoy some social tennis and plenty of seasonal refreshments in the clubhouse.
The prizegiving for the club championships will also take place on that night.
Sympathy is extended to former Club President, Kathleen Roe, and all the Breen family, on the death of Michael Breen.

Birr Book Club
The next book club meeting will be held on Monday the 14th of December. The book for this month is 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak (chosen by Maureen).

Foot Health Practitioner
Foot health practitioner for all your foot needs. Do you suffer from corns, callus, athlete's foot, fungal infections? Call Anne Sherlock, RGN, SAC, Dip FHPT, SAC, Dip FHPP. Registered member of Chiropody/Podiatry Association. Available evenings and Saturdays. Phone (086) 2113494. (Advert).

Eglish/Rath Sale Of Work
Eglish/Rath parish sale of work will be held on Friday December 4th at 8p.m. in the Community Centre, Rath. Sale will include all kinds of everything - firewood, turf, briquettes, farm produce, local farmers vegetable stall, cakes and jams. Collectors will call to houses in the area. All money raised will go to Parish Funds.

Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
Seir Kieran Drama Group presents their Annual Drama Production from Thursday 3rd December until Saturday 5th December. See How They Run promises to be a great night’s entertainment!
Conversations with My Gardener is the Film Club’s presentation on Tuesday 8th December. This French language film begins with a successful painter leaving Paris to return to the village he was born in. There he hires an old school friend as his gardener and a mature, friendly bond develops between the two men that is enriched by the different experiences they have both had in life.
Santa’s Magical Christmas takes place on both Thursday 10th and Friday 11th December. This musical fantasy full of fun, singing and dancing is the perfect kick-off to Christmas and early booking is highly recommended!
Nutcracker, the fairy-tale ballet with original music by Tchaikovsky is the culmination of the hard work throughout the Autumn semester by Offaly Youth Dance, First Footing, Yummy Dance and a number of adults
Don’t Forget: Birr Theatre & Arts Centre are looking forward to welcoming their 100,000th Patron before Christmas – the lucky individual will receive a beautiful bouquet of flowers, a bottle of champagne, Friends Membership of the Theatre for 2010 along with two tickets to an event of the winner’s choice during each quarter.  
Have you got your ticket yet????
Box office opens 1p.m.-5.30p.m. Monday-Friday. (057) 9122911 or check out www.birrtheatre.com for further details.

Santa Is Coming To Frawley's Superstore
Santa will be coming to Frawley's Superstore on Saturday 5th of December and on Saturday 12th December from 12 noon to 6p.m. on both dates. For more details see in store or telephone (087) 7649804. All boys and girls are welcome. Special family concessions.

Birr Active Retirement Group
Birr Active Retirement Group will hold their next meeting on Thursday the 3rd of December in the Resource Centre Londis Car Park, Glebe Street Birr at 7.30p.m. All members are requested to attend as it is party night.

Birr Town Table Quiz
Birr Town Schoolboys / Schoolgirls are running a Table Quiz to aid in funding their 12 teams which provide football for nearly 200 players. Your support is greatly needed to ensure that they can continue to provide gear, footballs and transport for all these children. Please support this fundraiser. Venue: Craughwell's bar. Date: Friday 4th December at 9.30p.m. Table of four: €20.

Fivealley Community Alert Group
Fivealley and District Community Alert Group are holding a meeting in the Enroute Bistro Fivealley on Thursday 3rd of December at 9p.m. A wide range of security issues for the Winter months will be discussed and in attendance will be Garda Vincent Hogan and Ms Theresa Maloney from Laois / Offaly Task Force. New members are always welcome.

ASI Table Quiz Results
The annual table quiz which was held in the County Arms on Sunday evening was won by Aidan, Pauline and Eoin McIntyre and Maria Brophy. There was a tie for second, so a playoff saw it going to P.J. and Mary Delaney, John Rothwell and John Lawlor. But well done to Andrew, Patrick, Jeffery and Lauren who did so well also and to all who attended and made it such a great evening.
The beautiful inscribed plaque and €100 was presented by Margaret Maher HCC with Offaly ASI to Pauline McIntyre, and Mary Delaney received €60 for her team. Thanks to them for their kind gesture.
The ASI would like to thank the County Arms for all their help, for the lovely food provided, that was very much appreciated by all. The ASI also really appreciate the work done by Quiz Master Ger Nolan, and Marie Marshall for keeping the scoreboard. The ASI in Offaly would like to wish all their fundraising supporters a very happy Christmas and a great 2010.

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. Also on offer lots of Christmas goodies as side prizes, two lines and full house. Starting as usual at 8.30pm sharp. 
Progressive 25 Drive: Top prize was shared by three pairs on 12 games: Bertie Coleman and Mary Maher, Teresa Bennett and Pat Tumulty, Pat Craven and Kieran Guinan. The last game went to Kieran Daly and Elsie O'Halloran while table prizes were won by the Larkins and Mick, Dolores Ryan. Raffle prizes were won by Turkey - Peter Darcy, Ham - Jack Kennedy, P.J. Nevin, John Burke, Jack Maher and Jack Ryan. Cards continue on Sunday night at 9p.m. sharp with a jackpot of €100 on 14 games.

Birr Methodist Church
The annual Christmas sale will be held on Friday 11th of December in the former Junior Junction shop Main St (by kind permission of Buckley's Super Valu) from 10a.m. to 4p.m. Cakes, jam, holly, crafts, etc. Any support would be appreciated.

Tres Belle Shoe Boutique Christmas Customer Evening
Come along to our Christmas Customer Evening this Thursday the 3rd of December from 6p.m. to 8p.m. Discounts and treats available on the night. (Advert)

Birr Social Club
Teams Snooker Tournament in aid of the Birr Community Nursing Unit is still continuing t Birr Social Club. Only one match played this week. In the first quarter final - Miley's beat Simon W 4-1. This week's fixtures: Emma's Café v Buckley's Super Valu, POCG v Sunrise Inn, J. Rylands v J. Corrigan's. 
The committee and members would like to offer a vote of sympathy to the Mellsop family and club member Johnny on the recent death of their mother.

Highfield Utd Lotto
Numbers drawn in the Highfield United lotto this week were 6, 7, 8, 14. No Jackpot winner. No match three. Five names drawn receive €30 each: Mary Grimes, c/o Pilkingtons, Pop Cotter, c/o seller, Ben Tierney, c/o D. Cotter, Damien Cotter, c/o D. Cotter, Yvonne Joyce, c/o G. Carroll. Turkey winner: John Kirwan, Ham Winner: Jackie Duffy, c/o T Granger. Next week's Jackpot is €10,350 and draw takes place in the Palace Bar. Thanks to the Swan and everybody who supports the Lotto every week.

Birr Town Lotto
Numbers drawn in this week's Birr Town lotto were 1, 4, 27, 30. Bonus number 9. No Jackpot winner. No Match three. Five names drawn receive €40 each: Michael Murphy, Riverstown, John Loughnane, c/o Willie, Annie Pardy, High St, Eamon O'Meara, c/o 31 High St, Fidelma Hayes, Crinkle. Turkey winner: Paddy Gibbons, Glebe St. Ham Winner: The Four of Us, c/o J. Cahill. Next week's Jackpot €4,400 and with bonus number €7,400. Draw in the Cherry Tree Monday December 7th. Thanking all for your continued support.

Services For Deaf And Hard Of Hearing People
On Wednesday 2nd & 16th December, at the Old Health Centre, Johns Terrace, Birr, from 10am to 1p.m., this is a free service where you can get advice about hearing aids, equipment for your home to help you hear the doorbell, phone, smoke alarm, television. Also information on Irish Sign Language, Tinnitus and Lip-reading. 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. Appointments can be made for a private consultation for hearing aids in Tullamore; hearing aids are competitively priced at €950 or €1,250 each, or you can phone 1800 256 257. 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 . 

Guide Dogs For The Blind
Christmas Cards & Calendars in aid of Irish Guide Dogs for the blind are available from Mary Burns (057) 91 25676, Arnold Walsh (087) 6114373 (Lorrha) & Ann Hogan of Hogans Pub, Market Square, Birr.

Thanks
Teresa Williams, Cloughjordan, would like to thank all who sponsored her recent participation in the Dublin City Marathon. Teresa raised the impressive total of €13,200 for the following Helpline Charities;
AWARE; Helping to defeat depression and prevent suicide. Lo-Call Helpline 1890 303302
TEEN-LINE IRELAND; Alone, worried or distressed - it just takes one phone call. Freephone 1800 833634.
SAMARITANS; Always available 24/7 for confidential emotional support. Telephone 1850 60 90 90.
I.A.S. Irish Association of Suicidology. Managing grief and loss after suicide. Telephone 094 9250858
LIVING LINKS; Providing practical help, advice and support to persons bereaved by suicide. Helpline; 087-9693021.

Camcor Bridge Club
Camcor Bridge Club results this week were as follows: Turkey winners - Ann Smyth and Sadie Leonard; Whiskey - Maura Kerrigan and Mary Ruttledge; Sherry - Judy Craig and Ann Ritchie.

Birr Leisure Centre
Birr Leisure Centre is now taking bookings for Swim Lessons, and Gym Classes for 2010. Saturday Child Lessons will have an extra session added due to demand from January 2010. Aquafit contuining Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, at 7.00p.m., Friday 11.00a.m.
They also teach one to one Swim Lessons for Children, and Adults, booking is essential. New Timetable available on Monday 14th December. Gift Vouchers available at reception, ideal Christmas gift. Various Membership options available.
 
Birr Photography Group
'Night Photography' talk at 8p.m. on Wednesday 2nd December in Tin Jug Studio, Brendan Street, Birr. Learn new photographic skills, enjoy chat and share information. New members always welcome. Call Joe on (087) 657 4820 for more information.
   
Ramblers In Eireann
Sunday 6th December - The walk at Clonfert has had to be postponed due to the unfortunate severe flooding there. Best wishes to the families who are affected. An alternative walk has been arranged for Cloghan Lake. Meet at 2p.m. on December 6th in the car park at Cloghan Lake for a visit to the nature reserve and lakeside walk. Cloghan Lake is located approx 2 miles from Cloghan on the R357 Cloghan-Tullamore road. All welcome. Non-members €3.
Saturday 19th December. Ramblers Christmas dinner at the Thatch, Crinkle €50. Names and money are now being taken by Sinead at tel. (057) 91 23794 (H); (086) 05 48143 (M) after 6p.m.
 
Sarah Molloy School Of Speech And Drama
Sarah Molloy School of Speech and Drama presents 'That 90's Show' on Saturday December 5th at 8p.m. and Sunday December 6th at 4p.m. in the Marian Hall, Birr.

St Pio Mass
St Pio Mass will be celebrated in St Brendan's Church, Birr on Tuesday December 15th at 7.30p.m. Rosary at 7.15p.m.

Social Dancing
Social dancing in Rath Community Hall on Thursday December 3rd. Music by Sam O'Doherty. Watch out for details of the Christmas dancing programme, which will be announced in the coming weeks.

Strawberry Hill Antiques
Strawberry Hill Antiques & Fine Jewellery, Main Street Banagher. Christmas opening times are Thursday to Saturday 12 noon to 5p.m. Sunday 2-5p.m. or by appointment (087) 2941597. New, exclusive and unusual giftware at affordable prices (Advert).

Birr And South Offaly Community Needs Assessment
The Birr and South Offaly Community Needs Assessment has been taking place in the area for the last number of months. At this stage a lot of information has been gathered from various groups on the needs of the area. The findings are now being collated and they plan to present them to the public on this Wednesday 2nd December at 8p.m. in the Marian Hall. By presenting back the needs that have been identified they aim to ensure that all views have been accurately recorded. They will also discuss what steps can be taken to address the identified needs. All are welcome to attend the above event. Tea and coffee will be served. For futrther information please contact Steve O'Donohue, Offaly Local Development Company on (057) 9151 622.
 
Table Quiz
Table Quiz in Aid of Offaly Hospice in The Cherry Tree on Saturday 5th December starting at 9p.m. sharp. Table of four €20. Followed by traditional music. A fun night is guaranteed and all proceeds going to the Offaly Hospice.

Busy Bodies Christmas Play
Busy Bodies Christmas play takes place in Carrig Hall on Sunday December 13th at 3p.m. All donations given at the door will be given to the Spina Bifida Association and Duchenne Ireland (Muscular Dystrophy). If you want a laugh, why not go along and support these little people.

Sending Christmas Greetings 
The much loved Snow Scenes of Birr Christmas cards by Emma Nee Haslam are available at Emma's Café for €6 per pack or directly from Emma on (086) 6024432. With best wishes to all this Christmas.

Offaly Singing Circle
Offaly Singers Christmas Singing Session in the The Thatch, Crinkill on Monday December 7th. All welcome.

Ladies Hockey Moves Indoors
Every Tuesday for the coming months, hockey for fun and fitness comes indoors to the Sportshall at St.Brendan's Community School, Birr. All new and past players are very welcome and equipment is supplied, just bring clean dry runners. The indoor game is similar to the full game except that the push is used in place of the hit and the ball may not rise ay any time. It is a fast game and coach Dervilla Kirwan gives a great workout each night, finishing with a game.
So a date for your diary: 7.15p.m. to 8.45p.m., Tuesdays, Sportshall, Community School, Birr. More info: (087) 2836675  

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.
Beaded Jewellery Course - Tuesday nights 7.30 -9.00pm.
Adult Art Classes Mondays 5-7pm 
Childrens Art with Tatiana on Wednesdays from 5p.m.
Kidz Kraftz Thursdays for 4-8year age groups and Fridays for 8-12 year age group both classes are now full. 
Birr Resource Centre operates a Children First Policy.
They will be holding a Bazaar on 5th December 2009 this year. With the Bazaar they will be holding a Car Boot Sale outside the centre. There will be space for approximately 20 cars. Sort out your old things and earn some cash for yourselves for Christmas. If anyone would like to donate books or toys to the bazaar the office will be open every morning this week to take donations.
Ba Bog parent and Toddler group meet on Tuesdays at 10.15am. .
For more information on any of the above please call Mary on (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. Also there are Heneghan's Nursery and Athenry Foods. (Advert).
 
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 John (086) 8033126 or (057) 9351124. Website: www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Sue Ryder Foundation
The Sue Ryder Foundation is the largest provider of accommodation for the elderly in the country. They support this activity through their charity shop in Birr. If you have clothes or furniture to donate for the support of their work, contact them on (057) 91 21227 or call to the shop.

Birr Parent And Toddler Group
Birr Parent and Toddler group meet every Tuesday morning 10.30a.m.-12.30p.m. in the Family Resource Centre in Glebe Street. Lots of fun and toys for your toddlers and babies, come and have a coffee while getting to know other parents and guardians. Cost is €3 per family. See you there!

Ballyegan Gardening Club Diaries
The final meeting will be held on Wednesday December 9th at 8p.m. in Ballyegan Hall. Majella's Flowers will do the Christmas Workshop this year. Cost is €10 per person and anyone interested must ring Marie at (087) 7461203 as soon as possible so they know the numbers attending. You can pay on the night. They will also have their mulled wine and Christmas goodies to celebrate the festive season. Looking forward to a great night out.

St Brendan's Atheletic Club
 Athletic training every Monday evening 5.30p.m. - 6.30p.m. in Birr Rugby Club House. Fee €2. New members always welcome.
 
Four Seasons Gardening Club
Four Seasons Gardening Club are holding their Christmas Party on Monday night, 7th December in O’Sullivans, Kilcormac at 8.00p.m. There will be music on the night and all are welcome. Santa will also be in attendance and you are asked to bring something small for the ‘Santa Bag’, not more than €4 to €5. It would be appreciated if some food was also brought for the table. Santa will attend and there will be music playing. Everybody welcome.
 
Community Alert 
Carrig, Riverstown, Killeen Community Alert Public meeting on Wednesday 2nd December at 7.30p.m. All are welcome. 4/12/2009
'Grease' A Smash Hit For St Brendan's Community School

Twenty years since they previously staged the show, St Brendan's Community School, Birr presented a memorable production of 'Grease' to packed audiences in the school gym recently.
It was a performance packed with vitality, energy, colour, great singing and acting, a terrific cast and they thoroughly deserved the standing ovation they received from an enthusiastic audience at the end.
With strong performers and good interaction between all the leading cast members, backed up by a big cast, the show moved with great pace and fluency. It was a slick and professional production that was full of energy, colour and life and it had everyone tapping their toes to those familiar musical numbers.
Grease shot to fame when the film version featuring John Travolta and Olivia Newton John hit the screens 30 years ago. As a result most of the musical numbers were well known to everyone, with the likes of 'Summer Loving', 'Greased Lightning', 'Hopelessly Devoted To You' and 'Sandy' all hitting the charts.
It is the type of show that suits school productions as the students are playing characters of their own age, with modern and rock numbers that they are familiar with and plenty of lively action.
Set in an American High School in the 1950s, it focuses on the frustrations, tensions and peer pressure caused by the interaction between two groups, The Pink Ladies and the Burger Palace Boys. During the Summer holidays, the leader of the Burger Palace Boys Danny falls in love with Sandy. Her famlly then moves to the area and she starts at Rydell High, not knowing that Danny is a student there.  
All does not run smoothly when they meet at the school, as Danny, giving in to peer pressure to live up to his macho image, turns his back on Sandy. After several other difficult encounters, Danny has to decide between Sandy and the gang.
The cast playing the two gangs, The Burger Palace Boys and the The Pink Ladies, were both very strong and that played a major part in the success of the show. They interacted very well together, showed great confidence and poise on stage and they were also very good singers. The split stage scene in the cafeteria at the start worked very smoothly and set the trend for the rest of the show.
That high standard was maintained throughout, as the cast remained in character well, maintaining good American accents and showing plenty of excellent acting ability. The colourful costumes added to the spectacle and brought up back to the era of the 1950s.
The set was excellent and set changes were performed swiftly and without fuss. One of the highlights of the show is the arrival of the car - 'Greased Lightning' - on stage. They managed to get a real car on stage for this and it was whisked on an off stage with ease, which added authenticity to the production.
The pace of the production was well maintained throughout and the singing and dancing was of a high quality. The choroegraphy for the number at the conclusion to the first half with the full cast on stage was a trumph in itself. To see so many performing a difficult routine in unison was a credit to everyone involved. 
Director Rufina Recks and choreographer Sophie Bailey, backed up by Musical Director Enda O'Connor and the orchestra, combined to produce a terrific spectacle that had everyone rocking in their seats.
The lead roles of Danny and Sandy were played by Reuben Noyce and Lisa Connors respectively. Both were excellent in these parts. Reuben played the the part of the cool gang leader with a great swagger and confidence, displaying good acting and strong singing ability. Lisa was the angelic 'goody two shoes' Sandy, who found it difficult to fit in with the others, but turned into a more feisty and more of a 'rocker' Sandy before the end. Lisa sang beautifully, particularly her solo numbers, and she and Reuben combined very well together. 
The Burger Palace Boys worked very well together. They were good strong singers and that added to their performance. They worked very well together as a group and complemented each other and came across as your typical school gang. Ciaran Keane played the role of Kenickie and acted and sang very well. Stephen Lyons filled the role of Roger with ease and style. Sean Hogan showed great confidence and assurance as Sonny, while David Sheils acted very well in the role of Doody.
They were back up well by The Pink Ladies, who were also a strong group. Niamh Scully was a strong and forceful Rizzo and displayed a fine singing voice. Robyn Luttrell had great stage presence as Marty, and acted strongly throughout. Jodie McKenna was very much at ease in the role of Frenchie and also sang well, while Alison McDowell was excellent as Jan, maintaining her character's mannerisms very well throughout.
In other roles, Sean Stone caught the eye as the 'nerdy' Eugene and he generated a lot of laughs. Dearbhaile Sheils performed strongly as the leader of the school Cheerleaders, while Fionn O'Carroll and Owen Dunne, made a good impact as Johnny Casino and Vince Fontaine respectively. Ronan Murphy as Teen Angel, Niamh Finnerty as Cha Cha, Rachael Corboy as Miss Lynch and Caitriona Nolas as the Prom Singer, completed a strong line up.
This will go down as another success for St Brendan's Community School. It was a lively and spectacular production and most importantly the students seemed to be very much enjoying themselves in performing it. Long may that continue.

Cast
Danny - Reuben Noyce; Sandy - Lisa Connors; Burger Palace Boys: Kenickie - Ciaran Keane; Roger - Stephen Lyons; Sonny - Sean Hogan; Doody - David Shiels; Pink Ladies: Rizzo - Niamh Scully; Marty - Robyn Luttrell; Frenchie - Jodie McKenna; Jan - Alison McDowell; Johnny Casino - Fionn O'Carroll; Vince Fontaine - Owen Dunne; Teen Angel - Ronan Murphy; Eugene - Sean Stone; Patti - Dearbhaile Sheils; Cha Cha - Niamh Finnerty; Miss Lynch - Rachael Corboy; Prom Singer - Caitriona Nolan.
Students Of Rydell High: Clodagh Bergin, Jonathan Bourke, Alice Breslin, Aoife Cashen, Hazel Cavanagh, Orla Cleary, Ciaran Cooney, Elaine Corrigan, Jason Daly, Zoe Field, Kevin Fleury, Dillion Hansbury, Cian Hart, Eoin Hayes, Lisa Hogan, Shaun Hogan, Catrina Houlihan, Cliona Hunt, Evan Hunt, Iola Kawala,, Orla Kealey, Ruairi Keane, Amy Kelly, Rebecca Kennedy, Paul Kinsella, Orlagh Kirwan, Clodagh Lawlor, Eva Liffey, Vivienne Maher, Emma Maloney, Katie Masterson, Emer Middleton, Colm Mulrooney, Aoife O'Brien, Diarmuid O'Carroll, Ciara O'Connor, Sean T. O'Connor, Jasmine Patel, Kirsty Patel, Sam Pearson, Kenneth Rice, Laura Roddy, Lucy Ryan, Nicole Sarin, David Shanahan, Amy Spain, Donal Spain, Conor Walsh.
Angels And Cheerleaders: Ceire Bluitt, Danielle Boyd, Sarah Cleary, Jessican Davis, Amy Deegan, Laura Dunne, Eimear Delaney, Ava Haines, Nicole Kelly, Megan Lavin, Hannah McLoughlin, Leanne Madden, Aine Murray,, Patricia Nolan, Kara Sampson, Rachel Spain, Roisin Watkins, Dawn Whelahan.
Grease Monkeys: Jonathan Bourke, Jason Daly, Kevin Fleury, Cian Hart, Dillion Hansbury, Eoin Hayes,, Shaun Hogan, Evan Hunt, Ruairi Keane, Paul Kinsella, Colm Mulrooney, Diarmuid O'Carroll, Sean T. O'Connor, Sam Pearson, Kenneth Rice, David Shanahan, Donal Spain, Conor Walsh.
Production Credits
Director - Mrs R. Recks; Musical Director & Conductor - Mr E. O''Connor; Choreographer - Ms S. Bailey, Show Co-Ordinator - Mr J. Dunne.4/12/2009
Entertaining Comhaltas Concert

The Annual Comhaltas Concert organised by the Birr Branch in Birr Theatre and Arts Centre lived up to its reputation as one of the best of its kind in the area. A full house thoroughly enjoyed a variety of entertainment provided by a large cast of musicians, singers, dancers and storytellers.
The special guest on the night, noted accordionist and singer Seamus Begley from Kerry was very entertaining with some witty introductions to his various songs and tunes. He was most at home singing Ballads in Irish from his native Ballyferriter. He was backed by an excellent guitarist in Jim Eady. When playing the accordion he was put under pressure by the two local stars on the box, Olivia Douglas and Amy Murphy.
Singing was one of the strongest points of the night with the two All Ireland Senior Champions Shauna McGarrigle and Tadhg Maher demonstrating why they are the best in Ireland. Shauna contributed two excellent ballads, 'The Blackbird of Sweet Avondale' and 'Down the Moor' as well as a couple of tunes on the concertina, while Tadhg’s choice was the popular 'Flowery Kinnitty' and the rousing Irish Ballad 'Mo Gille Mear'.
The equally talented Martin Delaney proved he is a worthy All Ireland under 18 singing champion with a splendid rendition of 'The Ballad of John Mitchell'. He was joined on stage by his father, also Martin, who also added a ballad of his own. There was a special welcome for old favourite Nora Butler who showed she has lost none of her charm or singing ability as she demonstrated with one of her favourite ballads 'The Mall of Lismore'.
This year’s concert featured an exhibition of traditional set dancing by the renowned Galmoy Set Dancers and there was a fine display of solo step dancing by James Mounsey. The light entertainment was provided Vincent Pierce who regaled the audience with his hilarious stories.
Two excellent family groups completed the programme. The well known Kinsella Family have taken part in every concert run by the branch in recent years and as usual turned in a faultless performance. They were joined by their great friend, bodhran champion, Martin McHugh. Less well known is the Corrigan Family from Clareen. This group consists of five sisters each of whom plays at least two instruments, with a song thrown in. All are excellent performers in their own right and with guitarist Ciaran Cooney form a fine musical ensemble with plenty of potential.
This annual event gives audiences in the area an opportunity to hear and see top class entertainers as well as up and coming local talent. The next event being organised by the committee is the annual Christmas/New Year Session, which takes place in The County Arms Hotel on Monday 4th January.

4/12/2009
‘Keep The Home Fires Burning’ Annual Fundraiser

Saturday the 12th of December this year will see the second annual ‘Keep the home fires burning’ campaign take place. The fundraiser was started last year by Camillus O’Meara when two hikers climbed and camped on Carrauntohill for 24 hours. The camp out was in aid of charity and was very well supported last year; being run essentially by the players and members of Birr Rugby Football Club whose efforts ensured it was a great success. 
Carrauntoohill is Ireland’s highest peak and is located in Kerry at the centre of the Macgillycuddy peaks. The mountain stands at an impressive height of 1,039m or 3,406ft. The walk up the mountain is relatively simple with only some light scrambling up a short central passage of the climb known as the ‘Devil’s ladder’. 
However it is the camp over which will test the endurance of this year's hiking party. Temperature decreases with altitude, at a rate of approximately 2-3°c per 300 metres height gained (known as the lapse rate). In reality, what this means is that the temperature on the mountain top may be as much as 10°c lower than that at the valley floors, and when increased wind chill is taken into consideration, winter temperatures may fall as low as -20°c.
Last years party camped in -17°c for the night. With darkness setting in at around 4p.m. and day break typically about 7.30a.m., it can make for an uncomfortable 16 hours in a tent, typically in snowy conditions. 
This year four 'volunteers' from Birr Rugby Club will complete the campout. Their discomfort will be turned into €’s which will be used to buy briquettes that will be circulated around the town in the run up to Christmas by players from the club. 
As part of the fundraiser a night is being run in Birr RFC clubhouse on Sunday December 6th. This corresponds with the first team’s last game before Christmas against Arklow. A Christmas themed party (we know it’s still early) will follow the game with music by Paddy Buckley from 8p.m. All members, players, past players, partners etc are encouraged to attend and donations will be collected on the night. The night corresponds with the senior team's Christmas party before the break up till the New Year. As such it is a great opportunity to have a bit of craic while raising money for a good cause. 4/12/2009
Leinster Regiment Association Meets In Birr

For the first time in its history the re-constituted Leinster Regiment Association met in Birr, the historic home of the regiment, on the 21st November at the Community Resource Centre. Although the Association holds regular meetings in London and Dublin, this was the first occasion that it returned to the historic roots of the regiment by holding a members meeting followed by a public lecture. 
The formal connection with the town goes back to 1881 when the 100th and 109th Regiments of Foot came together with the Kings and Queen's County Militias and the Royal Meath Militia to form the Prince of Wales Leinster Regiment (Royal Canadians) with their headquarters at Crinkle Barracks. The Regiment recruited extensively in these counties and many local families will have relatives who served in the Leinster Regiment prior to its disbandment in 1922. Subsequently the Old Comrades Association was active in the area until time took its inevitable toll on the original membership. 
The present day membership comprises of descendants of the original Leinsters and anyone who is interested in preserving the memory of this fine old Regiment. Although membership is concentrated in Ireland and the United Kingdom the Association has members scattered throughout the world including South Africa, Malaysia and Australia. 
Over 40 people braved the worst the weather could throw at us to listen to local secondary school teacher Mr Brian Kennedy give a talk on the background and the exploits of the Regiment. He started by tracing the antecedents of the Regiments in the form of the 100th Regiment to Canada at the time of the Crimean War in the 1850s and the 109th India with its involvement in the Indian Mutiny during the same period giving rise to the unique element in its title Royal Canadians and the strong connection with India. He considered the reasons why young men choose being a soldier as a career and pointed out the attractions to a young man growing up in rural Ireland of the time including the chance of adventure and travel to places that most of us can still only dream of, in addition to the more prosaic motives of regular employment, food and accommodation. He went on to describe the Regiment's involvement in the Boer war of 1899-1902 and described how this conflict was carried out and influenced the conduct of future wars. 
Mr Kennedy went on to describe in some detail the involvement of the Regiment in the 1st World War and how it expanded with an extra two service battalions being added to meet the needs of a world wide conflict. He pointed out the Regiment was present at virtually every major battle in the Western Front and how they took part in the campaigns in Gallipoli, Macedonia and Palestine. He described how four members of the Regiment won the Victoria Cross, the highest award for gallantry, including towards the end of the war how two were won during the same battle. This was the Battle of Courtrai during which the Leinster led the capture of the Belgian town of Ledegem with whom the possibility of twinning with Birr is now being discussed. 
The meeting, which was attended by many well-known personalities including the Cathaoirleach of Birr Town Council Mr Tony McLoughlin, concluded with a lively question and answer session. 
If you would like to know more about the Leinster Regiment Association and its activities you can contact Mr Sean Cooke of 5 Grove Street, Crinkle. There is also an extensive range of information on the history of the Regiment available in Birr Town Library. 

4/12/2009
Birr Camogie  

Club Convention
The AGM of Birr Camogie Club will take place on Tuesday 8th December 2009 at 8p.m. in Dooly's Hotel, Birr. All players, parents and anyone interested in becoming involved in the club in any small way are very welcome to attend. The numbers of girls playing are increasing every year thankfully, therefore we are asking parents to come along and give a helping hand for the coming season.
It has been a good year for Birr Camogie Club, winning the Junior Championship and the Minor B Championship and hopefully 2010 will bring more success.

4/12/2009
Golfing In The Glenns 

Captains’ Dinner
Congratulations to both Lady Captain Mary Sullivan and Captain Tom Rigney on a hugely successful night to honour the 2009 Captains held in the Golf Club on last Saturday Night. Lady President Mary Ryan and the House Committee are to be congratulated on a very well organised night. The catering provided by Cathal McIntyre and his staff was excellent and with music, song and dance by Paddy Buckley, a good night was had by all. The Lady Golfer of the Year Lena Guinan and Men’s Golfer of the Year Michael Lyons both received their awards on the night. Congratulations to Lena and Michael on their successful year from all members. 
Open 3-Ball Competition
An Open 3-Ball Competition is up and running until April 2010. The response has been very encouraging with a great turn-out over the past two weeks. The competition will be over 18 holes with the best two scores to count at each hole. The teams are composed of any combination ladies/gents and the competition is sponsored by Michael Horan of Birr Golf Shop and Driving Range, Callaway and Trackman. Three teams will qualify each month with the Grand Final in May 2010. Play will be from Monday to Saturday with the handicap limits of men/20 and ladies/30. Entry is €10 for members and €20 for visitors. This will be an exciting competition over the Winter and Spring and no doubt will prove attractive to all golfers. The result of the November competition will be available next week.
For Your Diary
3-ball Open Competition Ongoing.
Ongoing 14h hamper and 9h Turkey. 
Seniors’ Golf as usual on Thursday December 3rd at 10.15a.m. Christmas Dinner, Thursday Decembeer 17th.
Santa in Club. 18th December. 
Membership
Membership of the Glenns is now open for the 2010 season. Now is the time to apply and join a friendly and active club with a wide range of facilities. There is no entry fee and all details can be had from the office (057) 912 0082.
Christmas Vouchers
Membership vouchers are available from Joan in the office. No doubt a voucher is a very acceptable Christmas present for your family and friends. Please ring (057) 912 0082 for further information
Texting
The Club is in the process of seting up a texting service for members. We hope to have this up and running in the New Year. If you have not already done so, please give your mobile number to Francie Horan. 
Kevin McGrath
Kevin McGrath is offering great Winter coaching for the members. Special gift voucher packages are available for Christmas. Call Kevin on (087) 237 9234 for more details.
Ladies Golf
Ladies Branch AGM. The ladies branch held their AGM last Friday week. Lady Captain Mary chaired an efficient and well attended meeting. The meeting saw a close to Lady Captain Mary Sullivan and Lady President Mary Ryan’s successful year. The 2010 Lady Captain Kathleen Doorley and Lady President Doreen McKenna took office and we extend best wishes to both ladies in their posts for the year. The following officers were appointed for 2010: Tory Baker, Rita Delaney, Colette O’Brien, Mary Sullivan, Kay Kelly, Evelyn Lynch, Georgina Chambers, Ann McIntyre, Maura Flannery, Mary Bolger and Vera Smyth. We also wish them well for the year.
9 Hole Conquer Cancer – Ann Broderick. (2 best Cards) 1st Mary Lonergan – 39 points 2nd Pauline Needham – 37 points 3rd Liz Pardy – 36 points
9 Hole Turkey, 2nd. 1st Maura Flannery 21 points 2nd Vera Smyth 20 points 3rd Bernadette McTague 18 points
9 Hole Turkey, 3rd Ongoing.
Sympathy
The members extend deepest sympathy to Ann Kenny and her family on the recent death of her brother Charlie Phelan in Ballyfin.

27/11/2009
Birr Man Drowned In Windsurfing Accident

A Birr man was tragically drowned in a windsurfing accident over the weekend.
46 year old Fintan Hoare was surfing on Saturday last when he got into trouble off Banna Beach, Co Kerry at about 4.30p.m.
The Shannon coastguard helicopter and Fenit lifeboat were launched in an attempt to save Fintan. Other windsurfers tried to help as well but were driven back by the powerful winds.
Fintan's body was later recovered on Ballyheigue shore at 8p.m. and he was flown by helicopter to Banna where medical staff tried to revive him, but unfortunately without success.
Fintan was a married man with one child and had been living in Abbeyfeale, Co Limerick. He is the son of Gerry and Mary Hoare who live on Railway Road in Birr and is also survived by his brothers, Kieran, Aidan and Cormac, sisters, Maureen and Grainne, relatives and friends, to whom deepest sympathy is extended on their tragic loss.
The Hoares are a very well known, longstanding and popular family in the town. Fintan was raised in Birr but left the town many years ago. Fintan was known as a very skillful windsurfer who normally would have been able to cope with poor weather and stormy conditions. The coastlines around Tralee are a popular spot for windsurfers.
His Funeral will take place in Abbeyfeale this Wednesday morning.

27/11/2009
Worst Floods In Living Memory Afflict Midlands

The worst floods in living memory afflicted parts of the midlands over the last few days with rivers breaking their banks in many areas.
November has been an extremely wet month and the rain reached deluge proportions during the last week with the west and south of the country being especially badly hit.
Offaly and North Tipperary weren't as badly affected as Galway and Cork but all the same flooding like it hasn't been seen in generations.
At the time of writing four houses were flooded in the village of Shannonharbour and the families have all relocated to the homes of relatives.
Dermot McIntyre of McIntyre's pub in Shannonharbour said the River Shannon is normally quarter of a mile from the door of his pub but now it is only a couple of yards away.
He said he was putting out sandbags at his door in the hope they will prevent the rising water breaching his premises. These sandbags were given to him by the County Council.
'The road is impassable from the Banagher side of the village,' said Dermot. 'There is three feet of water on the road.' He said the four houses were breached by floodwater on Friday night. Dermot added that his pub was still open for business.
Ten houses in Banagher are presently under threat from the Shannon's rising waters.
A resident in Portavolla housing estate said ten houses had water lapping at their thresholds and sandbags were being put in place. He commended Banagher Concrete which had filled the bags with sand.
There are 30 houses in the estate and several elderly people living there. A few families have already left their houses and moved in with relatives.
The local fire brigade was onhand, the resident added, pumping out water. 'The County Council wanted to get rid of our fire brigade,' he said, 'which would be a stupid thing to do. They are invaluable at times like this'. He added that the firemen won't be paid today because of the nationwide strike.
'The Shannon has been rising steadily over the last few days and this morning (Tuesday) it was very threatening with several houses in danger of being breached.' The roads in the estate are also flooded but cars can still drive through. If the water rises much more they won't be able to do so.
A spokesman in Birr Gardaí said Shannonbridge was impassable due to flooding in the Church / National School area but there is now a diversion for motorists through the ESB power plant site. Waterpumps are currently in operation in the village.
He said the marina in Banagher is now flooded and the offices there (including Silverline Cruisers) have placed sandbags to try and prevent waterbreaches. He said no one in Banagher can remember the flooding ever being so bad. 
Willie Ryan, Area Engineer for Birr Town Council, commented that the Birr / Roscrea N62 road was closed last Thursday at Boveen due to flooding and there was a diversion through Shinrone. He said the flooding at Boveen wasn't caused by a river but simply because the land was so saturated the water had nowhere else to go. The road at Boveen is now open once again.
He added that the road between Lusmagh and Banagher is impassable, as is the section of the Cloghan to Borrisokane road at the Angler's Rest.
The Ferry Bridge on the N65 leading into Portumna from the Lorrha side is closed. The N65 Portumna / Borrisokane Road is impassable at Carrigahorig.
Mr Ryan pointed out that in the Birr area there are only 16 outdoor Council workers covering a region from Lusmagh to Birr to Moneygall to Kinnitty and there are not enough workers to tackle the situation. He said farmers and landowners can help greatly if they clear any drains which are blocked.
He said the Council has given out 100 sandbags to people concerned about being flooded.
'We have received many calls over the last few days from people saying they are worried that their property may be flooded and asking what we can do to help them. The Council has been working tirelessly in recent days to try and lessen the effects of the flooding. We have been clearing out drains and creating drains.'
He added that the ESB has been releasing water at Ardnacrusha Dam with the aim of releasing some of the water from the Shannon system.

27/11/2009
Oak Tree Planted At Birr Fire Station 

Members of Birr Fire Brigade together with family and friends of the late Joseph Feehan, remembered their colleague who was killed in a tragic accident on 10th November 2004 by planting an oak tree in his memory at Birr Fire Station. Joe was a member of Birr Fire Brigade. His Father, Johnny Feehan, his uncle Miley Feehan and cousins Tom Barnwell and John Powell were all members of Birr Fire Brigade. 
An Oak tree was chosen as it symbolises strength and endurance and can live over 200 years. In Celtic mythology, the Oak tree is the tree of doors and it is believed to be a gateway between worlds. Members of Birr Fire brigade have been serving the community for several years and they have witnessed many changes since it was founded. 
Andrew Flanagan, Chief Fire Officer, Birr Fire Brigade spoke about his colleague, the late Joseph Feehan, his commitment and dedication to the Fire Service and the sadness felt by the team of fire officers by the loss of their colleague in a tragic accident. Andrew also recalled how much Joe loved the environment, nature and a tree being planted in his memory is very appropriate. 
Retired Chief Fire Officer, Charlie Brophy, commented that members of Birr Fire Brigade were an extension of family and that Joe was like a brother to him. Charlie remembered the last time he had seen Joe alive, which was the night before he died. Joe together with members of Birr Fire Brigade had met Tuesday night for regular fire practice, returned home and then 10 minutes later the beeper went of and called the team back for duty to respond to an emergency. Little did the team know that night, their colleague would be killed in an accident whilst working a machine for his Garden Waste business the following morning.
Teresa Ryan Feehan spoke about her late husband's dedication to the Fire Services and how teamwork, commitment to the community and being part of the extended family of the fire crew made for the success of the service. She thanked Joe's colleagues in the Fire Brigade for remembering Joe by planting a tree in his memory. This oak tree is also a tribute to the contribution made by past members of the Fire services who had retired, those who had passed on and for the present members of Birr Fire Brigade who provide an important and vital service to the community. 
Joe's son, Simon, who was only seven months old when his father died, proudly and with great strength and energy happily helped to plant the oak tree which was kindly donated by Mick and Maura Sheahan and M. and M. Nursery, Derrinsallow, Birr. 

27/11/2009
Birr Group Built Houses For Haiti Poor

A number of people from the Birr area travelled to Haiti recently and built houses there for 40 impoverished families.
Haiti is in the Caribbean and is the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. Half the country is illiterate, crime is a terrible problem and corruption is rife.
Peter Darcy works in Grant Engineering in Crinkle and he was one of the people who travelled to this suffering, benighted country. Speaking to The Midland Tribune he called the visit an 'eyeopener', adding that he had never visited a Third World country before and much of what he saw was disturbing.
The group visited the Dominican Republic first which is in better shape than Haiti and once they crossed the border they noticed a significant difference. 'There was a lot more rubbish for a start,' said Peter. 'We drove through densely populated regions and most of the houses were in a very poor condition. Life for many people in Haiti is like hell.'
Peter is 37 years of age and has been working for 17 years in Grant Engineering as a Research and Development Engineer. His boss Stephen Grant is involved in a charity called Soul of Haiti Foundation and Stephen has been out in Haiti a few times before. On every occasion that he has visited the country Stephen has taken part in charitable endeavours and Peter was inspired to go along on this occasion when he heard Stephen talking about his trips.
The most recent trip was organised by Haven, which is a charity based in Dublin, and 250 Irish volunteers took part in the week-long project.
The 40 new houses were built in north-east Haiti near the town of Ouanaminthe. This north-eastern region is very rural, undeveloped, lacking in agriculture and possessing little manufacturing enterprise. The average per capita income in Haiti is about 400 US dollars and in the Ouanaminthe area over 90 per cent of people live in tiny two or three room homes made of concrete block or recycled wood, and have no piped-in fresh water, sewage disposal system or electricity. Nearly all streets and roads are dirt and travel between towns is very difficult and slow because of deep ruts and mud holes.
Peter worked as a plumber in the construction of the houses and he said precious little could be bought locally and the Irish volunteers had to bring a great deal with them including equipment, food and drink. 'We brought in all our plumbing equipment from abroad,' he commented. Keith Scully took part in the project as well and he too works in Grant Engineering. John Paul Manning and Louise O'Brien are both from Birr and they also participated in the Haven project. Louise provided her medical expertise.
All 40 houses were two bedroom buildings with one living area each. The cooking area and toilet were located externally.
A local liaison officer chose the building site (which was a greenfield site) and the 40 families that would be rehoused.
Peter commented that there is a huge UN presence in Haiti and whenever they left their building site they were accompanied by security staff. He found most Haitians to be friendly despite their very difficult circumstances.
The temperatures rose steadily throughout the week but despite the heat the Irish contingent continued working and managed to complete their targets which along with constructing 40 new houses including creating a new classroom and basketball court for the local school, and a central playground.
Haven's 'Build it Week' was a great success and the 40 families who have been given new houses will all be in their new homes by Christmas. They leave behind them ramshackle, primitive dwellings.
Many of the 250 volunteers had hidden talents, including singing, dancing and reciting poetry, which kept everyone entertained in the evenings.
Peter said they visited an orphanage in Ouanaminthe and there was just one person there looking after 400 children. The orphans sang and danced for the visitors.
There will be two Build it Weeks next year, one at the end of April and one at the end of October. Haven is looking for 250 volunteers for each trip.
At the end of the Build it Week a Haven organiser praised all those involved. 'You have changed the lives of many people in Ouanaminthe who had lost hope that they would ever live in a decent home. Your generosity to the children in the local school and orphanage will also certainly dramatically improve their lives.'
'The week,' said another volunteer, 'carried an immense amount of laughter, banter, good humour and very, very hard work. We were a self-contained community living and working in and around a small compound. A dedicated team prepared our meals. With little structure and a lot of creativity we made our own entertainment and we quickly became cohesive teams intent on meeting the goals that had been set.'
For more information have a look at www.havenpartnership.com.

27/11/2009
Birr News Digest

Ramblers In Eireann
On Friday 27th November at 9p.m. a Table Quiz will be held in Enroute, Fivealley. Come along and enjoy the fun. Raffle and spot prizes. €20 per table of four. All welcome.
On Sunday 6th December, meet at 2p.m. in the main car park at Clonfert for a walk led by local archaeologist Christy Cuniffe. The walk includes the unique 12th century cathedral, ancient Yew Walk and Bishop's Palace. All welcome. Non-members €3.

Wilmer Tennis Club
The club championships are due to conclude this week and anyone still involved is advised that all finals are to be played by Saturday November 21st.
The annual Christmas tournament is scheduled for Friday December 4th so remember to keep that date free in your diary. The prizegiving for the club championships will also take place on that night.

Homeopathy
Homeopathy is a gentle safe system of medicine, which can treat all kinds of conditions and is suitable for all the family including pregnant women and babies. For information or an appointment contact Jackie Lally - Registered Homeopath on (086) 1965415. (Advert)

Birr Garden Club
Birr Garden Club will meet in Dooly's Hotel on Tuesday 1st December at 8p.m. Susan Jackson will give a demonstration of Christmas arrangements. All are welcome.

Birr Book Club
The next book club meeting will be held on Monday the 14th of December. The book for this month is 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak (chosen by Maureen).

Foot Health Practitioner
Foot health practitioner for all your foot needs. Do you suffer from corns, callus, athlete's foot, fungal infections? Call Anne Sherlock, RGN, SAC, Dip FHPT, SAC, Dip FHPP. Registered member of Chiropody/Podiatry Association. Available evenings and Saturdays. Phone (086) 2113494. (Advert).

Eglish/Rath Sale Of Work
Eglish/Rath parish sale of work will be held on Friday December 4th at 8p.m. in the Community Centre, Rath. Sale will include all kinds of everything - firewood, turf, briquettes, farm produce, local farmers vegetable stall, cakes and jams. Collectors will call to houses in the area. All money raised will go to Parish Funds.

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.
Childrens Art with Tatiana on Wednesdays from 5p.m.
Kidz Kraftz Thursdays for 4-8year age groups and Fridays for 8-12 year age group both classes are now full. 
Birr Resource Centre operates a Children First Policy.
They will be holding a Bazaar on 5th December 2009 this year. With the Bazaar they will be holding a Car Boot Sale outside the centre. There will be space for approximately 20 cars. Sort out your old things and earn some cash for yourselves for Christmas.
Ba Bog parent and Toddler group meet on Tuesdays at 10.15am. .
For more information on any of the above please call Mary on (057) 9121912 or email birrresourcecentre@eircom.net

Art Exhibition 
Local artist Martin Spillane exhibits his collection of Art for the month of November in Birr library. All are very welcome to come and view his work. Exhibition is open during normal Birr library hours Tuesday to Friday 9.30a.m.-5.30p.m., Saturday 9.30a.m.-1p.m. and late night opening on Wednesday until 8p.m. Birr Library is part of the Civic Offices on Wilmer Road, Birr. 

Sale Of Work In Aid Of 'Friends Of Birr' Community Nursing Unit
A Sale of Work will be held on Sunday 29th November from 2.30p.m. to 4.30p.m. in the Main Dining Room at Birr Community Nursing Unit, Sandymount. 
Items for sale include cakes/confectionery, Christmas treats, second hand books, good quality board games/toys, handmade Christmas cards, jewellery, paintings and arts and crafts by the residents of BCNU, rugs made by Day care clients, raffles and competitions for prizes on the day. Everyone is welcome and all support is appreciated. 

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. Also there are Heneghan's Nursery and Athenry Foods. (Advert).
 
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 John (086) 8033126 or (057) 9351124. Website: www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Sue Ryder Foundation
The Sue Ryder Foundation is the largest provider of accommodation for the elderly in the country. They support this activity through their charity shop in Birr. If you have clothes or furniture to donate for the support of their work, contact them on (057) 91 21227 or call to the shop.

Birr Parent And Toddler group
Birr Parent and Toddler group meet every Tuesday morning 10.30a.m.-12.30p.m. in the Family Resource Centre in Glebe Street. Lots of fun and toys for your toddlers and babies, come and have a coffee while getting to know other parents and guardians. Cost is €3 per family. See you there!

Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
City Theatre, Dublin presents A Wish for Santa on Wednesday 25th November. Santa’s Magic Book of Wishes containing the names of every boy and girl has been stolen and he needs your help to get it back. Join him and his trusty elf Jack B. Nimble in doing this with plenty of music and song for all.
Don’t miss an absolute first for Birr, the Nemian Dance Company, direct from Mexico who will present an exhilarating programme of top quality performance on Thursday 26th November. This promises to be a spectacular evening not to be missed!
An evening of nostalgia with Johnny McEvoy takes place on Saturday 28th November featuring all of Johnny’s 'Hit Songs'. His songs are haunting, evocative and beautifully presented with many in the folk and ballad style. Book early to avoid disappointment!
The Film Club are showing Anvil! - The Story of Anvil on Tuesday 1st December. This film tells of Sasha Gervasi regaining contact with his old heroes and documenting Anvil’s last ditch quest for elusive fame and fortune after their slip into obscurity.
Seir Kieran Drama Group presents their Annual Drama Production from Thursday 3rd December until Saturday 5th December. See How They Run promises to be a great night’s entertainment!
Conversations with My Gardener is the Film Club’s presentation on Tuesday 8th December. This French language film begins with a successful painter leaving Paris to return to the village he was born in. There he hires an old school friend as his gardener and a mature, friendly bond develops between the two men that is enriched by the different experiences they have both had in life.
Don’t Forget: Birr Theatre & Arts Centre are looking forward to welcoming their 100,000th Patron before Christmas – the lucky individual will receive a beautiful bouquet of flowers, a bottle of champagne, Friends Membership of the Theatre for 2010 along with two tickets to an event of the winner’s choice during each quarter. Have you got your ticket yet????
Box office opens 1p.m.-5.30p.m. Monday-Friday. (057) 9122911 or check out www.birrtheatre.com for further details.

Birr Photography Group
Upcoming events: 'Early History of Photography' talk by Swedish photographer Carolina Gustavsson (€2 admission) at 8p.m. Wednesday 25th November; and 'Night Photography' talk at 8p.m. Wednesday 2nd December. Meeting every Wednesday at 8p.m. in Tin Jug Studio, Brendan Street, Birr (unless otherwise stated). Learn new photographic skills, enjoy chat and share information. New members always welcome. Call Joe on (087) 657 4820 for more information.
 
Birr Methodist Church
Birr Methodist Church will be holding a Praise Service at 7.00 p.m. this coming Sunday, November 29th. The speaker will be Mr. Glenn Jordan of the East Belfast Mission.
Following their rapturous reception at the recent Methodist Harvest Festival service, the ‘Ecumaniacs’ (assorted local clergy) will again lead the singing!
 People of all denominations are welcome to attend this and all subsequent services, and to stay for a cup of tea afterwards.

Ballyegan Gardening Club Diaries
Ballyegan Gardening Club Diaries would like to say a big thank you to Dermot Ward, Tree Surgeon, on his most wonderful presentation last Wednesday week. Everyone found it very informative and most interesting.
The final meeting will be held on Wednesday December 9th at 8p.m. in Ballyegan Hall. Majella's Flowers will do the Christmas Workshop this year. Cost is €10 per person and anyone interested must ring Marie at (087) 7461203 as soon as possible so they know the numbers attending. You can pay on the night. They will also have their mulled wine and Christmas goodies to celebrate the festive season. Looking forward to a great night out.

Charity Walk
Mary Teehan, 25 St Mary's Terrace, Shinrone, would like to thank most sincerely all those who kindly supported her in her charity walk for cancer on 18th October. They are Liam Butler Birr, Jim Lynch Birr, Joe & Marie Rowland Birr, Vozzas Chip Shop Roscrea, Treacy Ann Egan Post Office Shinrone, John & Tanya Maher Castle Bar Shinrone, also Teresa Williams Cloughjordan. Mary raised the sum of €312. Well done.
 
St Brendan's Atheletic Club
 Athletic training every Monday evening 5.30p.m. - 6.30p.m. in Birr Rugby Club House. Fee €2. New members always welcome.
 
'Cash On Delivery'
Coolderry Amateur Dramatic Society presents 'Cash On Delivery' a farce, by kind permission of Samuel French Ltd. Written by Michael Cooney, the play is both produced and directed by Roscrea man Paul Spencer, well known in dramatic circles. Performing on Friday, Saturday and Sunday 27th, 28th & 29th November at 8.15p.m. This production is a must for anyone that enjoys an entertaining evening of laughter. It is a great family night out. Cost €8 per adult, €3 per child.  

Christmas Presents
Large selection of new toys and games for girls and boys together with family board games will be on sale at the Car Park Entrance of SuperValu, Birr on Saturday 28th November ’09 11.30a.m.- 4.30p.m. (if not previously sold out!!). Proceeds will be given to: The Birr Community Nursing Unit, Oncology (Cancer) Unit for Children at Portlaoise Hospital and Offaly Cancer Friendship Circle, Birr.

Camcor Bridge Club
Camcor bridge results for last week were: 1st Nett Ita Cavanagh and Ann Smyth; Gross Tommie Nee and Ann Ritchie; 2nd Nett Phonsie Kerrigan and Phyllis Byrne.

Four Seasons Gardening Club
Four Seasons Gardening Club are holding their Christmas Party on Monday night, 7th December in O’Sullivans, Kilcormac at 8.00p.m. There will be music on the night and all are welcome. Santa will also be in attendance and you are asked to bring something small for the ‘Santa Bag’, not more than €4 to €5. Also something for the party table would also be appreciated.
The Club would also like to thank David O’Meara, of O’Meara Pharmacy, Birr who gave a very interesting and informative talk at their last meeting.
A reminder also that membership of the Club, €10, is now due.
 
Keratin Complex
Smoothing therapy (also known as the 12 week blowdry), as seen on Off The Rails and Xposé, now available at Classic Cuts Hair Salon. Also Gift Boxes, Matrix Gift Sets, Revlon Equave Gift Sets. Deposit taken. Tel: 05791 21266. Email: classiccuts@eircom.net. (Advert)

Birr Community Games
Birr Community Games are holding the local heats of the Draughts competition in the Marian Hall on Thursday November 26th at 4.30p.m. This event is open to both boys and girls, ranging in age from U-10 to U-14, who live in the Birr parish. Please bring boards if possible.

Highfield Utd Lotto
Numbers drawn in this week's Highfield United lotto draw were 2, 10, 21 and 23. No Jackpot winner. One match three receives €150 - Ger Hart, 4, High St. Next week's draw for a jackpot of €10,200 takes place in the Swan. Thanks to the Market Tavern and everybody who supports the lotto every week.

Birr Town Table Quiz
Birr Town Schoolboys / Schoolgirls are running a Table quiz to aid in funding their 12 teams which provide football for nearly 200 players. Your support is greatly needed to ensure that we can continue to provide gear, footballs and transport for all these children. Please support this fundraiser. Venue: Craughwell's Bar. Date: Friday 4th of December at 9.30p.m. Table of four: €20.

Monster Table Quiz
A Monster Table Quiz will take place on Sunday 29th November at 5.30pm in the County Arms Hotel Birr. Winners: €100 plus Perpetual Trophy. Second: €60. Random table prizes. €20 per table of four. Food served / no raffle. Proceeds to the Alzheimer Society.

Birr Social Club
Teams snooker tournament in aid of the Birr Community Nursing Unit is progressing at Birr Social Club. Results: Simon W. bt Kenno 5-0; POCG bt P Ryans 3-2; Sunrise Inn beat Pilkington's 3-2; Buckley's (Super Valu) beat Costcutters 3-2 in the battle of the supermarkets; Emma's Café beat Snowball's 3-2, Eamon Coughlan (Scissors') starring on the night for Emma's. Fixtures: J. Ryland v J. Corrigan's, Miley's v Simon W., Buckley's v Emma's Café, POCG v Sunrise Inn.

Birr Mart 
Bullocks: 1 lim 645kgs €965, 1 ch 710kgs €1,050, 6 ch 444kgs €765, 1 lim 755kgs €1,165, 1 ch 775kgs €1,185, 4 fr 470kgs €550, 1 lim 585kgs €885, 1 aa 410kgs €630, 3 aa 430kgs €550. Heifers: 1 ch 405kgs €615, 3 lim 443kgs €580, 6 ch 604kgs €935, 4 ch 581kgs €870, 1 lim 685kgs €995, 1 sim 510kgs €740, 2 lim 480kgs €690, 1 aa 590kgs €845, 1 ch 435kgs €635, 1 ch 635kgs €920. Dry Cows: 1 her 700kgs €750, 1 sim 655kgs €615, 1 lim 675kgs €640, 1 her 645kgs €590. 
At Roscrea Mart on Friday 4th December Clearance sale of 55 suckler cows - due to calve from January 2010. 

Birr Town Lotto 
Numbers drawn in this week's Birr Town lotto were 14, 19, 21, 30. Bonus number 5. No jackpot winner. Two match three winners receive €100 each. They were Peter Bennett c/o E. Pardy, Henry Haverty, Moorpark St. Next week's jackpot €4,200 and with bonus number €7,200. Draw in County Arms Hotel Monday November 30th. Thanking all for continued support. 

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. Lots of side prizes on offer this week and every week until Christmas - Turkeys, Hams, Sweets and biscuits. Starting 8:30pm sharp. 
Progressive 25 Drive; Top prizes on Sunday night was shared by three pairs on 11 games - Dolores and Michael Ryan, Tom Carroll and Bridget Reddan, Stephen Lonergan and Jack Maher. The last game winners were Jack Kennedy and Mary Kerins while Tony and Mary Larkin won the table prize. Raffle prize winners were Elsie O'Halloran, Derek Johnston and Ena Loughnane. Cards continued on Sunday night with a Jackpot of €100 on 14 games at 9pm sharp. 

Marian Hall
Birr Marian Hal are holding a €10 progressive 25 Drive on Sunday 28th November at 9p.m. €50 per table guaranteed. Separate raffle for some very good prizes. 

Community Alert 
Carrig, Riverstown, Killeen Community Alert Public meeting on Wednesday 2nd December at 7.30p.m. All are welcome. 27/11/2009
Work Progressing On Birr Column Conservation

Birr Town Council Cathaoirleach, Cllr Tony McLoughlin and Offaly Heritage Officer Amanda Pedlow climbed up the column in Emmet Square, Birr to observe the conservation works being undertaken on the column.
Undeterred by the weather, Tony McLoughlin climbed up the ladders at the Birr Column to be able to give a first hand account of the condition of the column and the work being carried out by the stone masons. Well renowned steeplejacks, Raineys have their specialised stonemasons working on the column. They are assisted by Rory Young who is an expert in very specialised lime mortar repairs. This is necessary as the column is made of sandstone and over the last 260 years has suffered considerable weathering. The metal L shaped cramps holding the structure together have rusted and as they rust the expand and they are 'popping' sections of the column off. The stonemasons have identified and strenghtened a number of areas which were coming loose.
While an inspection had been carried out before works began, the full extent of the works was not known until the whole column was scaffolded. Following last week's inspection it has become clear that the top of the column was more precarious than known and the top six layers or courses of stone will have to be taken down and reset. This will involve the works extending into 2010.
It is a real tribute to the designer, Chearnley, that it has survived to be Ireland's oldest monumental column. However this work has been carried out just in time to keep the structure and to ensure everyone's safety. For more details and the full report on the column in Birr see www.offaly.ie/heritage .

27/11/2009
Large Crowds Attending Birr Novena

In spite of the inclement weather this week, people are turning out in great numbers for the Novena at St Brendan's Church, Birr, which continues until Tuesday next December 1st.
Three members of the Redemptorist Order are conducting the Novena, which is the first such Novena since 1998 when a similar one was conducted also by the Redemptorists. It is being organised by the Parish Pastoral Council in conjunction with the Parish Clergy.
Three sessions consisting of Mass, a brief homily, Novena prayers and hymns will be held on each week-day at 7.30a.m., 10.00a.m. and 7.30p.m. The Sunday sessions will coincide with the regular Mass times of 8.30a.m., 9.30a.m.(Carrig), 10.30a.m. 12.00 noon with an additional Mass at 7.30p.m.
The theme of the Novena is 'Lord that I may see' and the team will explore how Christians should respond to the present changes in our country and world and the challenges they are encountering. It is a nine day celebration of faith and hope and all are invited to attend just one session on each of the nine days. Of particular interest is the Day of Reconciliation, Thursday 26th November when the retreat team will be joined by other priests in administering the Sacrament of Reconciliation at all three sessions. There will be Anointing of the Sick at the 10.00a.m. Mass on Saturday November 28th whilst on Sunday November 29th at 3.30 p.m. there will be a special Blessing of Babies and Small Children ceremony.
The Novena is directed primarily at the parishioners of Birr and Carrig but all are welcome to come and join in the ceremonies, including those who may not be regular churchgoers.
The team will consist of Fr. Tadhg Herbert (Leader), Fr. Ciaran O’Callaghan and Fr. Adrian Egan (music). They will work closely with the Parish Clergy and the lay members of the Pastoral Council to ensure the spiritual success of the Novena.
Large crowds are expected and those who, can are advised to attend the morning sessions. The parish is privileged to be able to host this special Novena and is grateful to the Redemptorist Community for making a team available to conduct it.

27/11/2009
Crinkle Tidy Villages And Development Association AGM

Church Gate Collection
The Association will hold its annual church gate collection next weekend Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th November. Your support will be greatly appreciated.  
Environmental Grant 
The Association was recently awarded an Environmental Grant of €655 by Offaly County Council. This represented 50% of the Association’s outlay on plants, shrubs, materials and equipment in the twelve months to 31st August 2009.   
New Lamp Posts On Barrack Street
The ESB will be working on Barrack Street in the very near future, installing seven Georgian style lamp posts, which will greatly improve the lighting on the street.  

 27/11/2009
Plans For Birr Sk8 Park Submitted To Council

Birr Sk8 Park Committee's proposed plans for a Skate Park facility were submitted to Birr Town Council and have now gone to Part 8 Planning. 
These are exciting times for the committee, especially the teenagers who were involved in designing the skate park. The skate park will be made out of concrete. This has advantages over the modular skating equipment. Firstly it was the preferred option of all of the skateboarders consulted because of the smooth seamless riding surface. Secondly, concrete skate parks are far more durable and require much less maintenance than modular skateboarding equipment.
Skateboarding has both physical and health benefits. It commands concentration, hand/eye co-ordination and balancing. The skate park is providing a much needed facility for young people in the area. It gets the skaters off the streets, supports newcomers, and encourages a healthy outdoor social scene. The skateboarders in turn will bring extra colour and life to the park as well as a a sense of fun and gives them a state of the art facility to pursue their skillful sport.
Upcoming Committee fundraising events to support the launch of the 'Birr Community Calendar 2010' on Friday 4th December in Dooly's Hotel's coffee shop at 8 .m. Dooly's Hotel will kindly sponsor the finger food and light refreshments on the night. All are welcome.
An end of term Teenage Christmas disco on 22nd December in Dooly's Hotel, music by D.J. Dill admission €10. Strictly no alcohol, mineral bar only and adult supervision will be present on the night.

27/11/2009
An Evening Of Nostalgia With Johnny McEvoy

Johnny McEvoy has always been highly acclaimed for his excellent concert shows and his return visit to the Birr Theatre & Arts Centre on Saturday next November 28th is eagerly awaited by his legion of fans.
This nostalgiac evening of 'Song and Story' features all of Johnny's many 'Hit Songs'. His songs are haunting, evocative and beautifully presented with many in the folk and ballad style. Johnny's New Album 'Never smelt The Roses' is proving to be one of the most popular albums of 2009.
This is a two hour concert...not to be missed. No Support..just simply 'An Evening with Johnny McEvoy'
Birr Theatre & Arts Centre this Saturday November 28th. Tickets €20 at Box Office Tel (057) 9122911.

27/11/2009
Birr & District Motor Club Autocross

The annual Birr and District Motor Club's loose surface autocross takes place this Sunday 29th November at Glasshouse Shinrone, Co Offaly by kind permission from A & R Poole.
This event is a counting round of the Jerry Murphy Hankook Tyres Munster Autocross championship.
Preparations are well underway and the track is just completed, with a lovely testing surface for the competitors.
Some of the local entries include, Mick Nevin in his famous Garahy tractors Mk2 Escort, Whitby Moynan in his Sunbeam, Birr’s Garry Higgins in another Mk2 Escort, and Aglish crew Pat and Tristan Horan will be in their Horan Campers backed Ford Ka. Also making an appearance to the quarry this weekend will be the Borris-in-Ossory crew of Barry Foyle and Frank Dwyer in a Peugeot 206, and Mark Kane in the Midland Tyres Citroen C2. The R.A.E Evo 7 of Eoin Fogarty is also due to make an appearance in the pit on Sunday.
The Galway crew of Thomas Leonard (Civic), John Kenny (Civic), Gerard Hodgins (Peugeot 205) and Ger Dervan (Civic) are also on Sunday's competing list.
Some of the specials that are to compete on Sunday include, David Forde, Benny Kennedy, Alan Higgins, and John Cavanagh.
Mountmellick's Chris Culleton will also be competing in his Opel special. 
The route to the pit will be arrowed from Dunkerrin (N7), from Roscrea and also the Black Bull to Shinrone.
Mechanical Scrutiny will take place in the pit at 9.30a.m.,with drivers briefing at 10.45a.m., followed by a practice run at 11.00a.m. and first timed run at 11.30a.m.
Help will also be required for setting up the track and also on the day.
For further details and information on this event contact the entries secretary Eoin Longworth on (086) 8179297, or Clerk of the course Ronan Shanahan on (087) 6931369.
Regulations and entry form are also available on line at www.birrmotorclub.com
The club's AGM is also taking place on Monday 14th December in Grant's Hotel, Roscrea, at 8.30p.m.

20/11/2009
Big Crowds Expected For Birr Novena

Three members of the Redemptorist Order will conduct a Novena in St. Brendan’s Church, Birr from 23rd November to December 1st. This is the first such Novena since 1998 when a similar one was conducted also by the Redemptorists. It is being organised by the Parish Pastoral Council in conjunction with the Parish Clergy.
Three sessions consisting of Mass, a brief homily, Novena prayers and hymns will be held on each week-day at 7.30a.m., 10.00a.m. and 7.30p.m. The Sunday sessions will coincide with the regular Mass times of 8.30a.m., 9.30a.m.(Carrig), 10.30a.m. 12.00 noon with an additional Mass at 7.30p.m.
The theme of the Novena is 'Lord that I may see' and the team will explore how Christians should respond to the present changes in our country and world and the challenges they are encountering. It is a nine day celebration of faith and hope and all are invited to attend just one session on each of the nine days. Of particular interest is the Day of Reconciliation, Thursday 26th November when the retreat team will be joined by other priests in administering the Sacrament of Reconciliation at all three sessions. There will be Anointing of the Sick at the 10.00a.m. Mass on Saturday November 28th whilst on Sunday November 29th at 3.30 p.m. there will be a special Blessing of Babies and Small Children ceremony.
The Novena is directed primarily at the parishioners of Birr and Carrig but all are welcome to come and join in the ceremonies, including those who may not be regular churchgoers.
The team will consist of Fr. Tadhg Herbert (Leader), Fr. Ciaran O’Callaghan and Fr. Adrian Egan (music). They will work closely with the Parish Clergy and the lay members of the Pastoral Council to ensure the spiritual success of the Novena.
Large crowds are expected and those who, can are advised to attend the morning sessions. The parish is privileged to be able to host this special Novena and is grateful to the Redemptorist Community for making a team available to conduct it.

20/11/2009
Art Exhibition Opens In Birr

A large attendance gathered at the Birr Library last Saturday morning for the official opening of an exhibition of paintings by local man Martin Spillane. 
The opening was performed by the chairman of Birr Town Council, Mr Tony Mc Loughlin. Mr Mc Loughlin welcomed everybody in attendance and complimented Martin on the high standard of paintings in the exhibition. He also complimented Martina and the library staff on the excellent facilities and for making them available for exhibitions like this one.
The art exhibition will continue until the end of November, during Library opening hours: Monday-Friday: 9.30a.m. to 5p.m.; Saturday: 9.30a.m. to 1p.m.; Wednesday: Late opening until 9p.m.

20/11/2009
All Star Line Up For Birr Comhaltas Concert

The members of Birr Comhaltas have completed the line up for their Annual Concert to be held in The Birr Theatre and Arts Centre on Sunday next 22nd November commencing at 8.00p.m. A formidable list of artists has been assembled from a wide area in an effort to cater for the tastes of all patrons. Supporters have come to expect a high standard at Birr Comhaltas concerts and on this occasion they should not be disappointed.
The special guest artist on this occasion is the famous accordion player and singer Seamus Begley. Seamus is one of the most popular of Irish traditional musicians, coming as he does from one of the most acclaimed Irish families in West Kerry. In addition to being an excellent and energetic accordion player and a fine singer of Irish and English Ballads, he is an eager storyteller known for his sharp wit. The official storyteller is Roscommon man Vincent Pierce. He possesses a unique blend of humour and is much in demand at concerts and other events throught the country.
The popular Kinsella Family has been an integral part of the branch for many years and as usual will be making a significant contribution to the programme. This year organisers have invited along an established troupe of Set Dancers to add some additional colour to the event. The Galmoy Set Dancers are known far and wide for their specialist dance the Threshing Set and with the ever increasing interest in set dancing locally they are sure to prove very popular.
Some of the stars from Bru Boru will also be attending. These will include the two current All Ireland Senior Ballad Singing Champions, both of whom come from Offaly. Ladies winner Shauna McGarrigle lives in Daingean and Men’s champion Tadhg Maher is from Ballyskenagh. Also coming from Bru Boru are Padraig Stapleton, flute player, and local man James Mounsey from Redwood among others.
Every concert must have a good Fiddler and fulfilling that role in Birr will be young Kilcormac man Cathal Guinan. Cathal comes from a fine musical tradition and is an excellent musician in his own right.
The above are just a few of the large number of talented artists waiting to entertain the audience at the Birr Theatre on Sunday night. For those who would like to reserve their seats in advance full details of booking etc are in our adverting columns in this issue.

20/11/2009
Summer Nights In November At St. Brendan’s Community School!

GREASE, the world's no.1 musical, will storm onto the stage of St. Brendan’s Community School this week bringing with it all the unforgettable hit songs from the movie including We Go Together, Greased Lightnin’ and Summer Nights. 
Grease tells the story of a high school romance between greaser Danny Zuko (Reuben Noyce) and wholesome Sandy Dumbrowski (Lisa Connors).
Join the Danny and Sandy along with the groovy T-Birds, those sassy Pink Ladies and the whole gang from Rydell High at St Brendan's high-octane rock 'n' roll party!
Performances run from Wednesday 18th November at 7.30p.m., and from Thursday 19th – Saturday 21st November at 8p.m. in the gym of St Brendan’s Community School. Booking is available at (057) 9120510.

20/11/2009
Birr News Digest

Ramblers In Eireann
On Friday 27th November at 9p.m. a Table Quiz will be held in Enroute, Fivealley. Come along and enjoy the fun. Raffle and spot prizes. €20 per table of four. All welcome.
On Sunday 6th December, meet at 2p.m. in the main car park at Clonfert for a walk led by local archaeologist Christy Cuniffe. The walk includes the unique 12th century cathedral, ancient Yew Walk and Bishop's Palace. All welcome. Non-members €3.

ROSCAM - Foróige Club
The ROSCAM Foróige Club are currently looking for adult leaders. Foróige Clubs offer young people the opportunity to run the club themselves in co-operation with their adult leaders. The Leader's role is to enable members to do things for themselves, build relationships with members based on trust and respect, work in partnership with members in the running of the club, encourage members to reach their full potential, share their knowledge and skills with the members, to be a positive role model and to make sure that the Club is a safe place for everybody. Full training will be given by Foróige, so if you are over 18 and have a couple of hours a week to spare then please contact Gerri on (087) 2497771.  

Alexa Boutique Birr
Alexa Boutique Birr are holding a fashion show on Friday 20th November in Dooly's Hotel, Birr at 8.30p.m. Glass of wine served on arrival. The show is in aid of Birr Lions Club and OSPCA. A fun filled night of fashion is guaranteed and Alexa will be introducing four new labels.

Wilmer Tennis Club
The club championships are due to conclude this week and anyone still involved is advised that all finals are to be played by Saturday November 21st.
The annual Christmas tournament is scheduled for Friday December 4th so remember to keep that date free in your diary. The prizegiving for the club championships will also take place on that night.

Birr Historical Society
A public meeting of Birr Historical Society and the Georgian Society will be held on Thursday November 19th at 8p.m. in Dooly's Hotel. James Howley, conservation architect, will discuss the pillar in Emmet Square and the Birr Workhouse in Syngefield. All are welcome.

Birr Active Retirement Group
Birr Active Retirement Group will hold their next meeting on Thursday 19th November in the Resource Centre Londis Car Park, Glebe Street at 7.30p.m. New members are welcome.

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 8.30p.m. sharp. Patrons please note start of Christmas prizes this week - turkeys, hams and sweets. 
Progressive 25 Drive: Top prize on Sunday night was shared by three pairs on 11 games Frank Mulvey and Pat Tumulty, Tim Carey and Kieran Coughlan, Tommy Carroll and Bridget Reddan. The last game went to Peter Darcy and Dolores Ryan while the table prize went to Mary and Michael Moran. Raffle prize winners were Mary Moran, Liam Shanahan and Stephen Lonergan. Cards continue on Sunday starting at 9p.m. sharp. Jackpot of €100 on 14 games.

Scor Na nOg Final
The final of Scor na nOg will be held in the Marian Hall Birr on Sunday 22nd of November at 5p.m. A great evening of entertainment for all who come along.

Homeopathy
Homeopathy is a gentle safe system of medicine, which can treat all kinds of conditions and is suitable for all the family including pregnant women and babies. For information or an appointment contact Jackie Lally - Registered Homeopath on (086) 1965415. (Advert)

Highfield Utd Lotto
Numbers drawn in this week's Highfield United lotto were 1, 5, 19, 21. No Jackpot winner. Two match 3s receive €75 each, Emer Cooney, c/o A Cooney, Joan, c/o Palace Bar. Next week's Jackpot is €10,000 and draw takes place in the Market Tavern. Thanks to Craughwell's and everybody who supports the lotto every week.

Birr Town Lotto
Numbers drawn in the Birr Town lotto this week were 4, 6, 8 and 22. Bonus number 30. No Jackpot winner. Two match threes receive €100 Euros - Cronan O'Donoghue, c/o The Thatch, Anne Taylor, Bulfin Park. Next week's Jackpot €4,000 and with bonus number €7,000. Draw in Dooly's Hotel Monday November 23rd. Thanking all for your continued support.

Tesco's Information Day
An Information Day in Tesco's will take place on Thursday 19th of November from 10a.m. to 4p.m. A medical representative will give a talk on Breast and Cervical Cancer and the importance of attending check-ups for these cancers. The information day is free of charge and is open to all.

Birr Social Club
Teams snooker tournament in aid of the Community Nursing Unit is taking place at Birr Social Club. Results: J. Rylands beat Tony Macs 3-2, R. Donnellys beat A. Sullivans 4-1, Mileys beat Verney's 3-2. This week's fixtures: Simon W. v Kenno, Snowball v Emma's Café, P. Ryan's v POCG, Sunrise Inn v Pilkington's, Cost Cutters v Buckleys (Super Valu).

Lecture On Leinster Regiment
A lecture on the Leinster Regiment will be given by Brian Kennedy at the Resource Centre located at the back of Cost Cutters Car Park. The lecture will be this Saturday 21st November at 1p.m. Brian is an excellent speaker and advice on individual research will also be available. All are welcome.

Birr Soccer Club Bag Pack
Birr Town Soccer Club are hosting a bag pack in Buckley's Super Valu this Friday and Saturday 20th and 21st of November. Anybody that has some time on their hands (players or managers, parents) please contact (086) 8892429 and let them know what time you could help. One or two hours would be great. Any support would be greatly appreciated.

Birr Garden Club
Birr Garden Club will meet in Dooly's Hotel on Tuesday 1st December at 8p.m. Susan Jackson will give a demonstration of Christmas arrangements. All are welcome.

Birr Book Club
The next book club meeting will be held on Monday the 14th of December. The book for this month is 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak (chosen by Maureen).

Sunrise Golf Society
A good crowd turned out in Portumna last Saturday for the final outing of the year. The following are the prizewinners: 1st G. Claffey, J. O'Rourke, P. Scully, J. Shortt. 2nd K. Mitchell, D. Byrne, M. King. 3rd I. Smith, N. Tierney, P. Stapleton, R. Mitchell. Nearest Pin 5th Hole: M. Talbot. Nearest Pin 18th Hole: I. Smith. Visitor's Prize: N. Russell. Most improved golfer: J.J. O'Rourke. Many thanks to John and Ray (Romaquip) for their kind sponsorship on the day.

Birr Mart
Bullocks: 1 ch 600kgs €910, 5 lim 372 kgs €600, 1 ch 520kgs €850, 1 lim 475 kgs €755, 1 sim 510 kgs €825, 1 fr 665 kgs €860, 1 ch 580 kgs €885, 1 sim 620kgs €925, 8 lim 499 kgs €740, 2 lim 463 kgs €730.
Heifers: 1ch 410 kgs €630, 1 her 590 kgs €810, 1 ch 435 kgs €715, 2 her 545 kgs €780, 3 ch 475 kgs €740, 2 aa 565 kgs €775, 1 ch 450 kgs €740, 1 sim 460 kgs €730, 2ch 485 kgs €770, 1 lim 480 kgs €715.
Dry Cows: 1 her 720 kgs €770, 1 her 675 kgs €695s, 1 lim 690 kgs €730, 1 ch 550kgs €650.
At Roscrea Mart on Friday 4th of December clearance sale of 55 sucklers cows due from January onwards.

Birr Photography Group
Learn new photographic skills, enjoy chat and share information. New members always welcome. Upcoming events include: 'Night Photography' outing in Birr, meet Phil with your camera and a tripod, if you have one, at the Reception of Dooly’s Hotel, Emmet Square, Birr, 8p.m. Wednesday 18th November; and 'History Early of Photography' talk by Swedish photographer Carolina Gustavsson, at 8p.m. Wednesday 25th November at Tin Jug Studio, Brendan Street, Birr. Call Joe on (087) 657 4820 for more information.
 
Cameo Beauty Salon
Cameo Beauty Salon, Birr (057) 9122182 November Specials.
Detox for Christmas with the Universal Body Contour Wrap. Book a course of wraps and receive a fourth one Free!
Microdermabrasion course of treatments now half price. Helps ageing skin, acne/acne scars.
Terms and conditions apply.
Valid until November 30th, 2009. (Advert)

Foot Health Practitioner
Foot health practitioner for all your foot needs. Do you suffer from corns, callus, athlete's foot, fungal infections? Call Anne Sherlock, RGN, SAC, Dip FHPT, SAC, Dip FHPP. Registered member of Chiropody/Podiatry Association. Available evenings and Saturdays. Phone (086) 2113494. (Advert).

Aghancon Whist Drive
Aghancon Whist Drive, by kind permission, will be held in Ballyegan Hall on Saturday next November 21st at 8.15p.m. until further notice. All welcome, good prizes.

Chamber Of Commerce Meeting
Birr Chamber of Commerce November meeting will be held on Thursday November 19th at 9p.m. in the County Arms Hotel.

Camcor Bridge Club
Camcor Bridge Club results from last week: Turkey winners, Mary Glendenning & Joanne Loughnane, whiskey winners, Ann Richie and Tommy Nee, Sherry winners, Liz Edge & Judy Craig.

Eglish/Rath Sale Of Work
Eglish/Rath parish sale of work will be held on Friday December 4th at 8p.m. in the Community Centre, Rath. Sale will include all kinds of everything - firewood, turf, briquettes, farm produce, local farmers vegetable stall, cakes and jams. Collectors will call to houses in the area. All money raised will go to Parish Funds.

Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
Young at Heart is the Silver Screen presentation on Friday 20th November. British film-maker Stephen Walker has created a sweet-natured documentary about the Young@Heart Chorus, a singing ensemble from Massachusetts, whose members’ ages range from 75 to 93, and who specialise in full-blooded versions of rock standards. The movie is valuable in that it tackles head-on subjects that are verboten in our fastidious pop culture; old age and death.
Don’t miss the cream of local and national talent at the Comhaltas Annual Concert on Sunday 22nd November featuring Irish music, singing, dancing and storytelling. A night not to be missed.
Flame & Citron, a sprawling WWII epic about the Danish resistance against Nazi occupation is the Film Club’s presentation on Tuesday 24th November. This film is one of the highest grossing pictures in Danish film history.
City Theatre, Dublin presents A Wish for Santa on Wednesday 25th November. Santa’s Magic Book of Wishes containing the names of every boy and girl has been stolen and he needs your help to get it back. Join him and his trusty elf Jack B. Nimble in doing this with plenty of music and song for all.
A first for Birr, the Nemian Dance Company, direct from Mexico will present an exhilarating programme of top quality performance on Thursday 26th November. This promises to be a spectacular evening not to be missed!
An evening of nostalgia with Johnny McEvoy takes place on Saturday 28th November featuring all of Johnny’s 'Hit Songs'. His songs are haunting, evocative and beautifully presented with many in the folk and ballad style. Book early to avoid disappointment!
Box office opens 1p.m.-5.30p.m. Monday-Friday. (057) 9122911 or check out www.birrtheatre.com for further details.

Neighbourhood Watch
Neighbourhood Watch Meeting will be held this Wednesday night November 18th .in Dooly's Hotel at 8p.m. All members are asked to attend. Neighbourhood Watch are a voluntary organisation, and therefore the more bodies they have the better. They welcome new members of all ages, so please come along.

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.
Childrens Art with Tatiana on Wednesdays from 5p.m.
Kidz Kraftz Thursdays for 4-8year age groups and Fridays for 8-12 year age group both classes are now full. 
Birr Resource Centre operates a Children First Policy.
They will be holding a Bazaar on 5th December 2009 this year. With the Bazaar they will be holding a Car Boot Sale outside the centre. There will be space for approximately 20 cars. Sort out your old things and earn some cash for yourselves for Christmas.
Ba Bog parent and Toddler group meet on Tuesdays at 10.15am. .
For more information on any of the above please call Mary on (057) 9121912 or email birrresourcecentre@eircom.net

Knitting Circle With Mary Kinsella
Mary will hold the first meeting in Birr Library on Wednesday 18th November at 5.30p.m.–7.30p.m.

Social Dancing 
Social Dancing in Carrig Hall, Birr on Thursday November 19th. Music by Pat Conlon and Ritchie Burke. 

Art Exhibition 
Local artist Martin Spillane exhibits his collection of Art for the month of November in Birr library. All are very welcome to come and view his work. Exhibition is open during normal Birr library hours Tuesday to Friday 9.30a.m.-5.30p.m., Saturday 9.30a.m.-1p.m. and late night opening on Wednesday until 8p.m. Birr Library is part of the Civic Offices on Wilmer Road, Birr. 

Sale Of Work In Aid Of 'Friends Of Birr' Community Nursing Unit
A Sale of Work will be held on Sunday 29th November from 2.30p.m. to 4.30p.m. in the Main Dining Room at Birr Community Nursing Unit, Sandymount. 
Items for sale include cakes/confectionery, Christmas treats, second hand books, good quality board games/toys, handmade Christmas cards, jewellery, paintings and arts and crafts by the residents of BCNU, rugs made by Day care clients, raffles and competitions for prizes on the day. Everyone is welcome and all support is appreciated. 

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. Also there are Heneghan's Nursery and Athenry Foods. (Advert).
 
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 John (086) 8033126 or (057) 9351124. Website: www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Sue Ryder Foundation
The Sue Ryder Foundation is the largest provider of accommodation for the elderly in the country. They support this activity through their charity shop in Birr. If you have clothes or furniture to donate for the support of their work, contact them on (057) 91 21227 or call to the shop.

Services For Deaf And Hard Of Hearing People
On Wednesday 18th November, at the Old Health Centre, John's Terrace, Birr, from 10a.m. to 1p.m., there is a free service where you can get advice about hearing aids, equipment for your home to help you hear the doorbell, phone, smoke alarm, television. Also information on Irish Sign Language, Tinnitus and Lip-reading. 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. Appointments can be made for a private consultation for hearing aids in Tullamore; hearing aids are competitively priced at €950 or €1,250 each, or you can phone 1800 677 247. 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).

Birr Parent And Toddler group
Birr Parent and Toddler group meet every Tuesday morning 10.30a.m.-12.30p.m. in the Family Resource Centre in Glebe Street. Lots of fun and toys for your toddlers and babies, come and have a coffee while getting to know other parents and guardians. Cost is €3 per family. See you there!

20/11/2009
Will You Be 100,000th Patron At Birr Theatre & Arts Centre

Birr Theatre & Arts Centre is getting ready to welcome its 100,000th patron which is scheduled to happen before Christmas!  
The lucky individual will receive a beautiful bouquet of flowers, a bottle of champagne, Friends Membership of the Theatre for 2010 along with two tickets to an event of the winner’s choice during each quarter.
This will be a momentous occasion for this dedicated, purpose built Theatre which originally dates from 1888. Unfortunately it fell into disrepair over the past few decades but has been restored to its original glory and is now a high quality facility. 
Since its grand re-opening in July 2000, this venue not only caters for theatre and music events, but also children’s contemporary dance and ballet classes, an adult film club with rehearsal and workshop space for Birr Stage Guild and Offaly Drama Project. It gives the opportunity to rural drama groups to present their productions in a professional theatre with its lighting and stage equipment and is also widely used for visual arts exhibitions in the dedicated exhibition area; Suas an Staighre. These run throughout the year and artists are selected by way of an application and selection process.
In addition Birr Theatre & Arts Centre provides rehearsal/studio space for Legitimate Bodies Dance Company – resident dance company since October 2007 who run year round classes for all ages and abilities along with performances and displays. Birr Theatre & Arts Centre has truly become the centre for entertainment and culture in both Birr and the surrounding locale.  
Full details on all upcoming events can be found on www.birrtheatre.com or from the box office: (057) 9122911 Monday-Friday 1-5.30p.m. Purchases can also be made online – all tickets must be paid for at time of booking (credit cards accepted)-tickets non-refundable.
Have you got your Ticket yet?

20/11/2009
Offaly Drama Project To Focus On Leinster Regiment

The Offaly Drama Project are presenting a new play this year based around the Leinster Regiment once situated at Crinkle Barracks. 
For their last three projects, the group just picked a play and produced it, but this year the play will be based on themes surrounding the Leinster Regiment. Due for launch at the Birr Theatre and Arts Centre next year (2010), this is community theatre at its best whereby the project will bring together real life stories and aspects of the community, pooling these resources and putting together those interesting anecdotes and stories into a period play format. 
Critically acclaimed Playwrights Michael James Ford and Bairbre Ní Chaoimh have been commissioned to write the script and have already encapsulated some stories surrounding the Regiment. The play is set as a 1914-15 period piece based on actual anecdotal evidence from people in Birr. For example, one such story that are pursuing at the moment surrounds the Hitchcock brothers who were educated at Kinnitty Rectory. One of the brothers became a lieutenant and his brother became known as one of the greatest movie directors in the silent movie era. 
As project co-ordinator Fiona Breen pointed out the Offaly Drama Project's aim is to gather as many stories from the local area as possible to weave into the play and with this in mind they are asking people to come forward with their stories about their grandfathers., grand uncles, friends, neighbours etc. 'We are interested in the all sorts of stories and leads, we are looking for anyone who has stories surrounding the Leinsters whether it be stories or indeed artefacts, objects of interest, relatives of the people who died etc.'
'Ultimately we want it to be our story for the people from the area. A story about their relatives, neighbours or friends who can recount life as it was in the area, lives that were intrinsically tied to the Leinsters. I can go meet them or interview them, anything no matter how small may have a significant imput into the play.'
Fiona added that they are running a workshop in the County Arms Hotel on Sunday next 22nd November, from 11a.m. to 5p.m. working with Bairbre Ni Chaoimh and James Ford and all are most welcome to attend. Casting for role of the Hitchcock brothers in the play will commence and the project co-ordinators are looking for two young males in their early 20s for these parts. 
Fiona commented on some of the background to the previous successful plays undertaken through the Offaly Drama Project that have helped to inspire excellence in community theatre.
In 2002 the Birr Players under the chairmanship of Salters Sterling, embarked on an innovative project, the Offaly Drama Project 2003. The core concept behind the Offaly Drama Project was to audition all interested actors and community theatre practitioners from Offaly based drama groups for a production of The Marriage of Figaro by A.C. Beaumarchais. This group was then to be mentored by way of workshops and masterclasses in order to improve the skills base – thus training would be transferred to other local drama groups through the participant’s knowledge.
It was expected that the process of developing such a project would harness the creative talents in set design, costume, acting, directing etc. of as many existing groups as possible within the Offaly area, while at the same time encouraging new talent and interest from those who had not been involved with any group.
In October 2003 Figaro was performed in Birr Theatre and Arts Centre to full houses and the project was declared a resounding success by the cast, technical crew and audiences alike. All were inspired by the project to excellence in community theatre. On evaluation of the 2003 Drama Project it was interesting to note that the participants came from as wide an area as Tullamore, Birr, Crinkle, Athlone, Borrisokane, Clara, Nenagh and Templemore.
Encouraged by the phenomenal success of Offaly Drama Project (ODP) 2003 the group, again under the chairmanship of Salters Sterling and directorship of Fiona Breen, embarked on ODP 2005 with Michael West’s adaptation of Moliere’s 'Tartuffe'. Again in 2007 the group followed the same principles and produced 'Cat Among The Pigeons' by Georges Feydeau, once again considered a success. The aspiration of the group is to repeat the achievements of the previous projects, where the value of the workshop process is equal to the production.
To date their Masterclasses and workshops have been taken by Patrick Mason, Lynn Parker, Mikel Murfi, Monica Frawley, Andrea Ainsworth, Tina McHugh and many more highly respected theatre practitioners. John Rocha also became involved in costume and set design.
 On a final note Fiona emphasised, 'it is the ambition of the group to further push out the boundaries of the 2009/10 Offaly Drama Project which is one of a kind nationally. This will be achieved by commissioning our own script about The Leinster Regiment from Michael James Ford. This play will then be directed by Bairbre Ni Chaoimh for the ODP production 2010.'
For further information or to put forward your story or memorabilia contact Fiona Breen on (086) 890 4828.20/11/2009
Mexican Dance Comapny In Birr Theatre And Arts Centre

Come and experience an absolute first for Birr. Nemian Dance Company directly from Mexico City and in association with Legitimate Bodies Dance Company will present an exhilarating programme of top quality dance performance in Birr Theatre and Arts Centre on Thursday 26th November at 8p.m. This will be a night to savour and remember as we welcome one of Mexico’s top modern dance companies to the theatre. 
Nemian is directed by Isabel Beteta De Cou and comprises of six incredibly talented dancers from different corners of the country. The members use a solid academic dance basis combined with a strong personality on stage. For Nemian dance is in essence a song of life. This song can manifest itself in a thousand ways and in the most diverse themes, provided that there is honesty in the feelings, clarity in the intention and a clean execution.
The group has distinguished itself for its variety, originality and creativity and has a vast repertoire that includes full evening pieces as well as short pieces. While most of the repertoire is made up by choreographies from the company’s director, it also comprises pieces by young Mexican choreographers as well as acclaimed international choreographers from the USA, Chile, Italy, Ecuador and Canada.
The group has performed in Mexico’s most important theatres and has toured to Ecuador, Peru, Canada, Cuba, Colombia, Germany, USA and now Ireland also thanks to the support of the Mexican Embassy based in Dublin. This promises to be a spectacular evening right down to the last pointed toe. Don’t miss it!
Birr Theatre and Arts Centre on Thursday 26th November at 8p.m. €15/€10.

20/11/2009
'Whatever Jones' Return To Perform In Birr

Described as the sound of heartfelt indie rock, Whatever Jones are returning to the perform some of their new material in The Fighting Cocks in Birr on Saturday next November 21st. It will be their first show after their support to John Spillane in the Market Square at the festival last July.
The Offaly based band have focused their attentions for the last couple of months in the studio, preparing for their debut album for release in mid Summer of next year. They have already established their rebellious but grooved sound in various different venues nationwide, supporting the likes of The Chapters, The Aftermath, Wayne Brennan, John Spillane and the Dirty Epics of the Raw Sessions fame, just to name a few.
Killeigh local singer and songwriter Damian Farrell, aka Farlo, has been itching just to perform some of the new songs, which had led to this being one of two special gigs lined up this year.
'We have spent a lot of time writing and rehearsing solid just to get the desired effect for the studio, just so we know we have pushed ourselves to get the result we wanted, but as any musician should strive to unleash their creativity on stage, that's where I feel at home, and we all feel the same,' Farlo adds.
The band consists of four members. Leading from the front is Farlo on guitar and vocals, Alan Mannion on drums, Damien O'Connor on Bass, and Kevin Connelly on Guitar.
The songs are written on topics such as modern life, love, heartbreak, and pure festival elation and other such taboo experiences that some bands tend to ignore, and trying to be as sincere and honest about lyrics in this light is Farlo's belief.
Farlo also adds 'there are so many bands out there that take other band's song ideas and stories, because they are maybe afraid of the vulnerability and sheer fear of their own lyrics. Anything we write, we try and relate to them as much as we can. I think for me it's the only way you can truly get satisfaction when performing or listening to the song'.
The band cites their influences and liken their sound to such acts as The Foo Fighters, The Doors, Weezer, The Stone Roses, U2, The Cranberries, The Dropkick Murphys, Jet, Pearl Jam and Muse, just to mention a few.
It was only last April the band got a surprise message from British eighties icon John Waite who in 1984 had US and UK number one with the song 'Missing You'.
'Whatever Jones' had recorded an up tempo version of the same song and a publishing contact who knew both parties sent the song to John Waite, and it made its way to his home in Malibu, California. Bass player Damien O'Connor recalls the shock message.
'At first I thought, oh God, we're in trouble here,' he laughs, 'but when I opened his e-mail I couldn't believe what he had written. He was delighted and loved the version and asked us what our plans were as regards the song and could we forward on some of our own material. We were chuffed to say the least.'
The song was recorded as a warmer for the studio and it was a song that Farlo remembers as probably one of his first memories of a music video, which he holds his late sister Sylvia responsible for as a huge influence on his early love for for music. 'She loved really cool and out there music. It was unavoidable in my house and I remember her always singing and playing that song.'
The tragic story of Sylvia's untimely death is the focus of the band's first single 'Broken'. 'I basically wasn't there the night she died. It was a neighbour that broke the news to me,' Farlo recalls, 'but the devastation it left behind is evident in the song. It's as honest as I can be, the whole day is still as clear as it was twelve years ago.'
The band hope to have this song released early February 2010 and their remaining gig of the 2009 calendar will be in a Childline gig at the end of December in the prestigious Trinity Rooms in Limerick city, date to be confirmed.
You can preview the band's songs on their website www.myspace.com/whateverjonesband or www.bebo.com/whateverjones

20/11/2009
Birr 2nds Defeat the League Leaders in Thriller

Birr 19 Co Carlow 17
Birr 2nds continued their good run with another victory over the league leaders Co Carlow at Ballyeighan. Birr started the match without four of their regulars who were out sick or injured. This match was going to be a tough contest as Co Carlow had scored an average of 30 points plus per game prior to this game.
Birr started well by taking the game to Co Carlow from the start and after six minutes Co Carlow conceded a penalty which Sean Ryan converted expertly. For the next twenty minutes Birr came under extreme pressure but good hard work and defending by the team helped to withstand this pressure. Jamie Flynn and Danny Shortt were tackling anything that moved which gave the rest of the team confidence. 
Then Co Carlow turned the game on its head by scoring two tries after 30 minutes and 34 minutes. Birr regrouped and started to play attacking rugby with scrum half Barry Whelahan driving them on. With all this pressure Co Carlow conceded another penalty on 39 minute and Sean Ryan converted. This left the half time score Birr 6 Co Carlow 10.
At half time Birr were forced to make a change with Eoin Garry going off with an injury and being replaced by Ciaran Campbell. Birr started the second half as they did the first half by attacking from the kick off with John Keirns settling in well at No. 10. After 42 minutes a break by the impressive Brian Carroll and Jordan Culbert led to another penalty being conceded by Co Carlow which Sean Ryan converted. Sean Ryan scored another penalty on 46 minutes.
Birr were playing well and leading by two points. Co Carlow were beginning to edge their way back into the game. On the 56 minutes Co Carlow kicked the ball into Birr's 22, which Sean Ryan collected and started to run at the Co Carlow. With the sideline encouraging Sean to kick the ball, he kept running and he did not stop until he placed the ball under the posts to score a try and then stood up to kick the conversations. 
From that score on the 56th minute to the end Birr were under extreme pressure. Co Carlow played most of the last 15 minutes in Birr’s 22. Birr were conceding a lot of penalties but defended like their lives depended on it. A lot of Birr players stood up and were not going to be beaten. On 72 minutes Co Carlow pressure had them on Birr’s try line and within inches of the line but Danny Shortt won back the ball which Sean Ryan kicked over 80 yards into touch to give the Birr players a deserved break.
On full time Co Carlow got over to score a try and converted. This left the full time at Birr 19 Co Carlow 17. This match was a thriller and will stand to Birr 2nds as the season continues. Birr were delighted to have Conor Larkin back in the squad after an injury lay off to add his many years of experience to this young team.
The man of the match was Sean Ryan who scored 19 points and did not miss any kick at the posts. 
All the Birr players and replacements played their part in this victory. Also best for Birr were Rory Dunne, Brendan Hynes, Danny Shortt, Jamie Flynn, Barry Whelahan, Jordan Culbert, John Kerins and Brian Carroll.
Next week match is away to Edenderry. Training continues every Tuesday & Friday night at 7.30p.m.
Birr line up: Sean Ryan, John Tooher, Brian Carroll, Jordan Culbert, Stephen Molloy, John Keirns, Barry Whelahan, Michael Hernon, P.J. Kavanagh, Maurice Rigney, Brendan Hynes, Rory Dunne, Danny Shortt, Jamie Flynn, Eoin Garry. Replacements: Barney Egan, Ciaran Campbell, Stephen Dooley, Conor Larkin, Lesley Armitage, Oisin McCormack, David Maxwell, Keith Scully.
The club would like to extend its sympathy to P.J. Kavanagh on the death of his grandmother.

20/11/2009
Golfing In The Glenns 

Captains’ Dinner
Menbers please take note that the Annual Dinner in honour of our Captains Tom and Mary will take place on Sat. 28 Nov. at 7 pm. It is advisable to book early as this is always a most enjoyable night in the Club. This year’s music is provided by Paddy Buckley and his band. Tickets are available from the office and from any member of the House Committee. All welcome.
Open 3-Ball Competition
An open 3-ball competition is up and running until April 2010. The response has been very encouraging with a great turn-out over the past two weeks. The competition will be over 18 holes with the best two scores to count at each hole. The teams are composed of any combination ladies/gents and the competition is sponsored by Michael Horan of oran ofBirr Golf Shop and Driving Range, Callaway and Trackman. Three teams will qualify each month with the Grand Final in May 2010. Play will be from Monday to Saturday with the handicap limits of men/20 and ladies/30. Entry is €10 for members and €20 for visitors. This will be an exciting competition over the winter and spring and no doubt will prove attractive to all golfers. 
For your diary
On- going 14h Hamper and 9h Stableford turkeys.
Until end of April; 3-Ball Open 18h.
Tuesdays at 10.30. Bridge. All welcome.
Thurs. 19 Nov. 9.30. Mass for deceased members. Followed by Seniors and Glenn Eagles Golf.
Sat. Nov. 28. 7.00. Dinner in honour of Captains.
Tues. 1 Dec. 8.00. Club AGM.
Fri. 18 Dec.   
Santa Claus in Club.
Results
14h Hamper sponsored by Seniors, 1st Dick Johnston (16) 33pts. 2nd John Kelly (14) 32pts. Gross: Billy Donlon 27pts. 3rd Jerome Molloy (12) 31pts.
9h Turkeys. Winners: Pres. Tony McCormack 23pts. Eamon Lowry 22pts, John Kelly 22pts, Seamas Coakley 22pts,
Bridge. 1st Mary O’Gorman and Catherine Morris. 2nd John and Roma Gilmartin.
Membership
Membership of the Glenns is now open for the 2010 season. Now is the time to apply and join a friendly and active club with a wide range of facilities. There is no entry fee and all details can be had from the office. 057 912 0082.
Christmas Vouchers
Membership vouchers are available from Joan in the office. No doubt a voucher is a very acceptable Christmas present for your family and friends. Please ring 057 912 0082 for further information.
LMC
The AGM of the LMC will take place in Grant’s Hotel, Roscrea on Tues. 24 Nov. at 8.00pm.
Ladies’ golf
14-Hole Hamper. The results of the second Hamper Competition kindly sponsored by Hanlon’s Butchers, Birr are as follows: 1st Tessa Foreman 29 points; 2nd Emer Hanniffy 28 points; 3rd Angela Hough 27 points.
2nd Nine Hole Turkey ongoing due to inclement weather.
Dates for your diary. Ladies Branch A.G.M. Friday 20th November 2009 at 8.00 p.m. Your attendance and support would be appreciated.
Captain’s Social Night. Saturday, 28th November. A good night guaranteed; good food and dance the night with Paddy Buckley and his band. Do come out to support Captain Tom and Lady Captain Mary.
18th December 2009. Santa in the Glenns.
20th December 2009. Christmas Party Sunday. Details later.
Kevin McGrath
Kevin McGrath is offering great winter coaching for the members. Special gift voucher packages are available for Xmas. Call Kevin on 087 237 9234 for more details.

13/11/2009
After Decades Waiting Birr Lights To Be Switched On

The contentious traffic lights at the junction of Seffin, on the Roscrea Road in Birr, are scheduled to be switched on this week after decades waiting.
The issue of Seffin was first raised by Birr's councillors back in the late '70s when they pointed out that the junction was on a main, busy road and it was very dangerous, especially for pedestrians trying to cross. Nothing was done.
The problem was raised many times throughout the nineties and noughties but still nothing happened. The councillors said they were particularly concerned about elderly pedestrians trying to cross the road.
Finally, last year the NRA promised that they would do something and that something would come in the form of traffic lights. Still the residents, after having waited so long, remained sceptical about anything happening.
However a few weeks ago the traffic lights actually did go up but they are not yet operational as the ESB haven't connected them to the power grid.
During the recent November meeting of Birr Town Council the area engineer Willie Ryan told the councillors that the lights will be operational during the coming week as the ESB have said they will connect them.
In response to this good news Cllr John Carroll joked that a bonfire, fireworks and a major celebration should be held by the residents and councillors on that day!
In other business the Area Engineer Willie Ryan remarked that resurfacing of Wilmer Road will begin next week. This will entail traffic diversions through Crinkle for a period of three weeks as the workers dig down to the base of the road surface and rebuild it from there. Previous work on the road was only superficial and it deteriorated quickly afterwards, but this work will go deeper and therefore will be longer lasting.
Cllr John Carroll said the traffic should be allowed to flow in both directions on Wilmer Road during the night at least while work is going on. Mr Ryan said he would look into that, adding that the road is in a very bad condition.
Cllr Michael Campbell commented that a major Novena is taking place in the Catholic Church from the 23rd of November onwards and the Wilmer Road works will not be good timing. It was agreed however by the councillors that the work should begin next week as it has been talked about for long enough. The work will be from the roundabout to the pedestrian crossing beside the church.
The councillors were still not sure whether moving the bus stop to Wilmer Road from Emmet Square was a good thing or not. Mr Ryan said the idea for this move came about when Bus Eireann approached him last February and said the stop in Emmet Square was in a dangerous location. However one of the councillors pointed out that Bus Eireann will no longer be running a service through Birr and it wasn't certain whether the new stop would suit Kearns or not.
Cllr Michael Loughnane pointed out that a number of businesses in the town are finding the recession very difficult and are struggling.
Cllr Denis Shiels said the cobblelocking on the town's footpaths and in Emmet Square is lifting up and is dangerous. He said there had been five quite serious accidents this year involving pedestrians and the cobblelocking.
Cllr Campbell commented that Orchard Lane needs to be cleaned up as rubbish is blowing out onto it from Tesco's. He said the pedestrian crossing at the Emmet Square / Emmet Street junction is dangerous and should be discontinued, and added that the road beside the Sunrise Inn needs to be resurfaced. The councillor remarked that he almost saw a serious motorbike accident on the road near Sunrise Inn.
Cllr Campbell said the Drumbane residents would prefer to see improvement work carried out at the rear of their houses first.
He asked who should he call if there is flooding at the weekend and there is a need to open the new sluice gates on Mill Island. He added that the sluice gates are working very well.
Cllr Denis Tierney said there had been good feedback from residents following the works on Newbridge Street and Oxmantown Mall. He commented that the junction on Wilmer Road for the swimming pool is dangerous.
Cllr Noel Russell said a couple of 'idiots' moved the traffic cones at the new Eden Road / Pound Street roundabout at 3am during the weekend. The councillor added that last week the Director of Services Michael Roche spoke on Radio 3 about a plan for preventing water loss. Cllr Russell wondered if Birr is part of that plan. He said the picnic table area on Banagher Road needs to be cleaned up.
Cllr Carroll said the Mart is in an unsuitable location in an urban area and needs to be relocated. He said the Mart has been busier in the last few weeks and the traffic warden issued 10 parking fines to owners of tractors, jeeps and trucks.
The councillor said the chicane in High Street is not working. Cllr Tierney disagreed pointing out that most people are happy with it.

13/11/2009
Birr Post Office To Move Premises

Birr Post Office will be moving part of its operations to another area of the town shortly, which will be the end of an era.
The people of Birr have been buying stamps from the same building since 1904 but now they will have to do so in a new premises on Main Street beside Super Valu.
No one is losing their job because of this move and the present employees (Pauline McGarry, Seamus Breen and Pat Madden) serving the public will continue to do so in the new offices.
It's been An Post's policy in recent years to outsource its financial services to a contractor with the aim of saving costs. This is what happened with Roscrea Post Office a few years ago. The contractor in this instance is Enda O'Connell, the son of the late Frank O'Connell who worked for 40 years in the Birr Post Office and passed away earlier this year.
Gary Cahill will continue to be manager of the delivery side of things and the post will continue to be sorted in the present Emmet Square premises prior to being delivered by the postmen. 
All the financial services will now take place in the new Main Street building and this will include such services as Prize Bonds, Saving Certificates, the buying of stamps, pensions, payment of ESB and mobile phone bills, social welfare, post bank, etc.
The move was discussed during the November meeting of Birr Town Council. Cllr Tony McLoughlin, Chairman, said it was the end of an era as the public had used the present Post Office for almost a century. This fine redbricked building was constructed by Mr William Hickey, a Birr contractor, in 1903-04 at a cost of 5,000 pounds. Prior to that the town's postal services were located in Post Office Lane which is a lane leading off High Street. Cllr McLoughlin added that it was also a good thing when a number of the town's services were located in one central location in Emmet Square. It was a good thing to see the bank, the Garda Station, the Post Office, a hotel, etc all located in the one area.
Cllr Denis Tierney said he felt the move would be a positive thing. It is planned to make the move prior to Christmas.
The new premises will be a larger area and there will be four people serving behind the counter rather than the present three. This means there will be less queuing for customers.

13/11/2009
Councillors Worried About Loss Of Grants For Birr

Councillors commented during the recent meeting of Birr Town Council that they were concerned about the possible loss of grants for Birr.
They said this could happen if the contract for the Offaly Arts Officer position is not renewed.
Sinead O'Reilly was the county's Arts Officer but her contract has finished and the councillors pointed out that the Council executive has not been renewing contracts in recent months because of the recession.
Cllr Tony McLoughlin, Chairman, praised Ms O'Reilly saying that she had done a great deal of work for Birr and the county as a whole and had always been friendly and approachable. 
He said if the county has no arts officer then grants of money for projects may not be forthcoming.
Cllr Michael Campbell commented that it is very important that the councillors lobby the council executive as much as possible about this matter. He pointed out that Offaly County Council is the only council in the state which doesn't have a permanent arts officer.
He said Birr was synonymous with the arts and in the Theatre and Arts Centre the town had a marvellous facility. 
Cllr Denis Tierney remarked that there is a great arts culture in Birr and that should be nourished and cultivated. He said this arts tradition is needed now more than ever.
Cllr McLoughlin commented that the Theatre and Arts Centre is a very popular facility.
In other business, Cllr McLoughlin said he was always against ramps but he felt that ramps are now needed in Hillside (where cars are coming at speed down the hill); in Sandymount (where the view of cars driving quickly along the road is obstructed); and on High Street.
Cllr Campbell said many people don't obey the rules of the road and are lacking in road manners.
'The other day I saw a man driving the wrong way down a oneway street. When I talked to him about it he said "I am only going one way!" '
'People behind the wheel,' remarked Cllr McLoughlin, 'seem to lose the run of themselves to the detriment of everyone else.'
Cllr Shiels said people are driving too fast down High Street and a ramp is needed there.
Mr Willie Ryan Area Engineer said the County Council has a no ramps policy except in housing estates.
Cllr Michael Loughnane commented that the organisers of the Birr Game Fair are looking for a permanent entrance to be made into Birr Castle from Croghan Road, and this could facilitate other events such as openair concerts.
Cllr Bernie Fanneran pointed out that following the recent spell of wet weather there is a great deal of flooding around the town. She asked if the Council could alleviate some of the floods.
Mr Ryan replied that it is an offence for someone to allow surface water from their land onto the road or vice versa. 'If people didn't commit these offences then there would be less flooding.'

13/11/2009
Hullabaloo! – The 3rd Annual Offaly’s Children’s Arts Festival

Birr Theatre & Arts Centre were delighted with the success of the 3rd Annual Offaly’s Children’s Art Festival; Hullabaloo! which took take place from Wednesday 28th to Saturday 31st October.
Over 850 people attended the 30 workshops, five live performances and children’s films that were held in a variety of venues, including the belly of a large pig! The organisers would like to extend a special thank you to all who provided venues for the numerous activities. Sessions held included Dance, Art, Crafts, Circus Skills, Storytelling, live Performances, Kids Photography, Writing Scary Stories, Children’s Films and Puppet Workshops with a Halloween Party in Birr Castle rounding off this year’s Festival.
Each year there are always loads of ideas on the table but due to manpower and logistics not all of them can be taken on. The Balloon Launch had been on the back-burner for a few years but the Festival organisers were delighted with its great success this year. Children from the Mercy Primary, St Brendan's Boys and Oxmantown Schools wrote wishes which were attached to the balloons. As this event was in aid of Barnardos they provided the balloons, Square News kindly provided helium and Central Office Supplies the tags for the wishes. Therefore, the event didn’t cost any money to run and the total raised was sent directly to the charity. Birr Library also reported an 80% increase on footfall during the Festival week.  
The success of this Festival clearly demonstrates the importance of the Arts in Birr and the surrounding area, and its role in fostering the creativity of our young people.
Offaly’s Children’s Arts Festival was kindly supported by Offaly County Council, Birr Theatre & Arts Centre and the Arts Council. It would also like to acknowledge the assistance of Birr Town Council and Access Cinema.

13/11/2009
ROSCAM - Foróige Club
The ROSCAM Foróige Club are currently looking for adult leaders. Foróige Clubs offer young people the opportunity to run the club themselves in co-operation with their adult leaders. The Leader's role is to enable members to do things for themselves, build relationships with members based on trust and respect, work in partnership with members in the running of the club, encourage members to reach their full potential, share their knowledge and skills with the members, to be a positive role model and to make sure that the Club is a safe place for everybody. Full training will be given by Foróige, so if you are over 18 and have a couple of hours a week to spare then please contact Gerri on (087) 2497771.  

Birr Stage Guild AGM
Birr Stage Guild are holding their AGM on Thursday 12th November at 8.00p.m. in Dooly's Hotel Birr. All members of Birr Stage Guild are invited to attend.
 
Alexa Boutique Birr
Alexa Boutique Birr are holding a fashion show on Friday 20th November in Dooly's Hotel, Birr at 8.30p.m. Glass of wine served on arrival. The show is in aid of Birr Lions Club and OSPCA. A fun filled night of fashion is guaranteed and Alexa will be introducing four new labels.

Wilmer Tennis Club
The club championships are near conclusion and anyone still involved is advised that all finals are to be played by Saturday November 21st.
The annual Christmas tournament is scheduled for Friday December 4th so remember to keep that date free in your diary.

Birr Photography Group
Meeting every Wednesday at 8pm in Tin Jug Studio, Brendan Street, Birr (unless stated otherwise). Learn new photographic skills, enjoy chat, share information, demonstrations and talks. New members always welcome. Call Joe (087) 657 4820 for more information.
 
Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
The Film Club will be showing Rachel Getting Married on Tuesday 17th November in which Jonathan Demme (director) skilfully navigates the audience through a rollercoaster of emotions in this bittersweet serious comedy. 
Young at Heart is the Silver Screen presentation on Friday 20th November. British film-maker Stephen Walker has created a sweet-natured documentary about the Young@Heart Chorus, a singing ensemble from Massachusetts, whose members’ ages range from 75 to 93, and who specialise in full-blooded versions of rock standards. The movie is valuable in that it tackles head-on subjects that are verboten in our fastidious pop culture; old age and death.
Don’t miss the cream of local and national talent at the Comhaltas Annual Concert on Sunday 22nd November featuring Irish music, singing, dancing and storytelling. A night not to be missed.
Flame & Citron, a sprawling WWII epic about the Danish resistance against Nazi occupation is the Film Club’s presentation on Tuesday 24th November. This film is one of the highest grossing pictures in Danish film history.
Box office opens 1p.m.-5.30p.m. Monday-Friday. (057) 9122911 or check out www.birrtheatre.com for further details.

Birr Group Of Parishes - Church of Ireland
This Sunday, 15th November, parishioners from all the parishes in the Church of Ireland Diocese of Limerick and Killaloe will gather at St Mary's Cathedral in Limerick for 'Celebrate Together', a day of worship, fellowship and fun. There will be no Sunday services in the Birr Group of Parishes, but there will be a special celebration of Holy Communion in St Brendan's Church, Birr on Saturday, 14th November at 7.30p.m.
 
Table Quiz
Birr Camogie Club are holding a Table Quiz in Kellys on Friday night next 13th November at 9.30pm. Table of four €20. It is very important for the club that as many parents as possible of the girls playing with the club come along and lend their support. The club is doing great work the all the girls but they need financial support from the parents to continue coaching the teams.Your support would be very much appreciated. It promises to be a great night out.

Camcor Bridge Results
Camcor Bridge results for this week were 1st nett, Michael Dolan and Michael Stephens; Gross Maura Kerrigan and Gladys O'Meara; 2nd nett Ann Ritchie and Tommy Nee.

Birr Historical Society
A public meeting of Birr Historical Society and the Georgian Society will be held on Thursday November 19th at 8p.m. in Dooly's Hotel. James Howley, conservation architect, will discuss the pillar in Emmet Square and the Birr Workhouse in Syngefield. All are welcome.

Sponsored Slim Down
A sponsored slim down in aid of Ronald McDonald House at Crumlin Children's Hospital will be launched at Milne's pub in Crinkle on Sunday night next Novembe 15th at 9.30p.m. Four locals are embarking on the sponsored slim down, Des Corboy, Ray Nolan, Brian Harte and Mick Ryan. The event will be running until Easter and sponsorship cards will be available in the local shops and businesses. Your support would be appreciated for this worthy cause. Why not go along and give your support at the launch on Sunday night.

Shinrone NS Parents Association
Shinrone NS Parents Association will be holding their annual table quiz this Friday November 13th in the Castle Bar, Shinrone starting at 9.15p.m. Table of four €20. Raffle will take place on the night for hampers, wine, etc. Come along to support the school and to have a great night also. All welcome.

Relocation Sale
Relocation Sale at Mannion's TV and Electrical, Syngefield, Birr. A sale not to be missed. (Advert).

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.
Beaded jewellery course starts 10th November 2009, €90 for the six weeks, includes all materials make your own Christmas presents.
Adult Art classes start on Monday 16th November 5-7pm for six weeks, cost €75.
Childrens Art with Tatiana on Wednesdays from 5p.m.
Kidz Kraftz Thursdays for 4-8year age groups and Fridays for 8-12 year age group both classes are now full. 
Birr Resource Centre operates a Children First Policy.
They will be holding a Bazaar on 5th December 2009 this year. With the Bazaar they will be holding a Car Boot Sale outside the centre. There will be space for approximately 20 cars. Sort out your old things and earn some cash for yourselves for Christmas.
Ba Bog parent and Toddler group meet on Tuesdays at 10.15am. .
For more information on any of the above please call Mary on (057) 9121912 or email birrresourcecentre@eircom.net

Ormond Hunt Prints And Promises Auction
The organising committee would like to sincerely thank all the local businesses and those who attended the auction on Friday 6th November 2009 for their support.
They would like to take the opportunity to also thank Dooly's Hotel and everyone who contributed and purchased on the night.The night was a great success!!

Knitting Circle With Mary Kinsella
Mary will hold the first meeting in Birr Library on Wednesday 18th November at 5.30p.m.–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. Also on offer this Friday night is a free game for €100 starting as usual at 8.30pm. sharp. 
Progressive 25 Drive; Top prize was won on 11 games by Pat Craven and Ciaran Guinan. Second on 10 games was Mary and Michael Moran. Four lucky 9s - Maura Guilfoyle and John O'Brien, Alex and Tom Kennedy, Tom Carroll and Bridget Reddan, Eugene O'Connor and Seamus O'Grady. The last game was won by Denis Glennon and John Melia while the Table prize went to Tony Butler and Johnny Coughlan. Raffle prize winners were Michael Moran, Eugene O'Connor and Dick Johnston. Cards continue on Sunday night with a jackpot of €100 on 14 games at 9p.m. sharp. 

Social Dancing 
Social Dancing in Carrig Hall, Birr on Thursday November 19th. Music by Pat Conlon and Ritchie Burke. 

Art Exhibition 
Local artist Martin Spillane exhibits his collection of Art for the month of November in Birr library. All are very welcome to come and view his work. Exhibition is open during normal Birr library hours Tuesday to Friday 9.30a.m.-5.30p.m., Saturday 9.30a.m.-1p.m. and late night opening on Wednesday until 8p.m. Birr Library is part of the Civic Offices on Wilmer Road, Birr. 

Sunrise Golf Society 
Sunrise Golf Society are traveling to Portumna Golf Club next Saturday 14th for their final outing of the year. As this is the last outing for 2009, they would like all members and friends to play and finish of another great year for the Sunrise Golf Society. 

St. Pio Mass 
St. Pio Mass Tuesday 17th November at 7.30p.m. Rosary 7.15pm..

Sale Of Work In Aid Of 'Friends Of Birr' Community Nursing Unit
A Sale of Work will be held on Sunday 29th November from 2.30p.m. to 4.30p.m. in the Main Dining Room at Birr Community Nursing Unit, Sandymount. 
Items for sale include cakes/confectionary, Christmas treats, second hand books, good quality board games/toys, handmade Christmas cards, jewellery, paintings and arts and crafts by the residents of BCNU, rugs made by Day care clients, raffles and competitions for prizes on the day. Everyone is welcome and all support is appreciated. 

Highfield Utd Lotto 
Numbers drawn in this week's Highfield United lotto draw were 4, 13, 17, 20. No Jackpot winner or no match three winner. Five names drawn win €30 each. They were Leonard Grainger, c/o seller, Davina Dempsey, c/o seller, Tracey Kinsella, c/o seller, Pop Cotter, c/o seller, Jamie Spain, c/o seller. Next week's Jackpot is €9,900 and the draw takes place in Craughwells. Thanks to Haverty's and everybody who supports the lotto every week. 

Birr Social Club 
Teams Snooker Tournament In Aid Of The Birr Voluntary Nursing Unit is ongoing at Birr Social Club. Results: Sunrise Inn beat Carey's Butchers (Nenagh) 3-2, POCG beat Social Club (c) 3-2 and P. Ryans beat Cherry Tree 3-2. This weeks fixtures - A. Sullivan v R. Donnelly, J. Ryland v Tony Mac, M. Verney v Mileys, Simon W v Kenno. 

Birr Mart 
Bullocks: 1 lim 535kgs €800, 1 fr 550kgs €710, 2 ch 483kgs €770, 1 lim 695kgs €1,035, 1 ch 695kgs €1,020, 1 lim 665kgs €1,000, 1 lim 750 €1,120, 2 ch 598kgs €955, 1 bb 490kgs €805, 1 ch 480kgs €790, 6 fr 498kgs €645, 4 lim 533kgs €850. 
Heifers: 1 sim 530kgs €795, 3 lim 358kgs €580, 1 ch 600kgs €915, 1 her 585kgs €830, 2 ch 600kgs €915, 1 her 585kgs €830, 2 ch 440kgs €690, 1 ch 630kgs €1,000, 1 ch 645kgs €980, 1 ch 590kgs €930, 3 lim 512kgs €835, 1 lim 610kgs €975. Dry Cows: 1 ch 720kgs €795, 1aa 680kgs €745, 1 sim 630kgs €710, 1 sim 630kgs €615, 1 fr 810kgs €835, 1 sim 660kgs €830. 

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. Also there are Heneghan's Nursery and Athenry Foods. (Advert).
 
Ballyegan Gardening Club Diaries
Their next meeting will be held in Ballyegan Hall on Wednesday 11th of November at 8p,m. Dermot Ward, tree arborist will be the speaker on the night. He will speak on trees for Autumn colour and small tree pruning.
Don't forget your plant for the plant table! Please bring your surplus fruit, veg bulbs, house and garden plants and buy what you need to increase your collection.

Boxercise
Reebok Martial Art (Boxercise) for over 16's in Crinkle Sports & Recreation Centre on Monday November 16th from 7p.m.- 8p.m.
 
Table Quizzes
The series of table quizzes in Kelly's, The Green, on Friday nights are nearing a conclusion. Next Friday's quiz is in aid of Birr Camogie Club.

Kilcoman Set Dancing Classes:
Set Dancing Classes will take place in the Blackbull, Sharavogue every Tuesday night at 9pm.
Feár an Tí is Pat O’Toole and steps will be demonstrated by Billy and Teresa Hynes. All are welcome to attend especially beginners. Fee only €3.

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 John (086) 8033126 or (057) 9351124. Website: www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Sue Ryder Foundation
The Sue Ryder Foundation is the largest provider of accommodation for the elderly in the country. They support this activity through their charity shop in Birr. If you have clothes or furniture to donate for the support of their work, contact them on (057) 91 21227 or call to the shop.

Services For Deaf And Hard Of Hearing People
On Wednesday 18th November, at the Old Health Centre, John's Terrace, Birr, from 10a.m. to 1p.m., there is a free service where you can get advice about hearing aids, equipment for your home to help you hear the doorbell, phone, smoke alarm, television. Also information on Irish Sign Language, Tinnitus and Lip-reading. 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. Appointments can be made for a private consultation for hearing aids in Tullamore; hearing aids are competitively priced at €950 or €1,250 each, or you can phone 1800 677 247. 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).

Birr Parent And Toddler group
Birr Parent and Toddler group meet every Tuesday morning 10.30a.m.-12.30p.m. in the Family Resource Centre in Glebe Street. Lots of fun and toys for your toddlers and babies, come and have a coffee while getting to know other parents and guardians. Cost is €3 per family. See you there!

13/11/2009
Birr Parish Novena

For the first time in many years, the parish of Birr is hosting a novena in honour of Our Lady of Perpetual Help – a title of Our Lady which is some 500-600 years old. 
The novena is being prayed instead of the usual mission. It is being held over nine consecutive days from November 23rd to December 1st inclusively. The word novena comes from the Latin for nine, and the novena, as a prayer form, is very old and is derived from Holy Scripture: after the Ascension of Jesus, the Blessed Virgin, the Apostles and others went to the upper room where they were staying in Jerusalem and prayed for nine consecutive days, which then culminated in the descent of the Holy Spirit (Pentecost – Acts 1:14). 
In the coming weeks each home in the parish will be visited with an invitation to the novena led by the Redemptorists. For more information see www.stbrendansbirr.ie .

13/11/2009
Halloween Photography Exhibition Winner

'Halloween: A Scary Photographic Tour' was Birr Photography Group's 3rd public exhibition, following 'Winter' and 'Broken Beauty'. 
Showing at Emma’s Café, Main Street, Birr from 24th October 2009, the exhibition coincided with 'Hullabaloo', County Offaly’s Children’s Art Festival. The exhibition's objective was for the members to display a wide range of shiver-making themes, whether by location, atmosphere, or turning something familiar into something frightening.
During the exhibition, customers at Emma’s Café were invited to vote for their favourite 'Scary' image and enter the free draw to win that photograph. On Saturday last, at Emma’s Café, Lisa Carroll was presented with the photograph 'Wolf Eyes' by Philomena Jordan as winner of the free draw. 

13/11/2009
Santa And His Elves To Visit Birr Castle Demesne

Bookings are now being taken for Santa Claus and his Elves in the Magical Winter Gardens at Birr Castle Demesne. This year’s event will run for six nights from Thursday 10th December to Tuesday 15th December. Booking is essential on (057) 91 20336. Please note this is an outdoor event, so wrap up warm!

13/11/2009
Champion Singers For Birr Concert

Traditional Singing will feature prominently on the programme at Birr Comhaltas Concert to be held in Birr Theatre and Arts Centre on Sunday 22nd November commencing at 8.00pm. Uniquely both All Ireland Senior Ballad Singing Champions in 2009 hail from Offaly and both have agreed to participate in the concert.
Shauna McGarrigle, the ladies winner, comes from Daingean and is a member of both Rahan Comhaltas and Bru Boru and has previously sung in the theatre as a member of the Mol an Oige group. 
Tadhg Maher who won the men’s section is from Ballyskenagh and is no stranger to audiences in South Offaly both as a singer and amateur actor. He is also a member of Bru Boru and part of Roscrea Comhaltas and leader of The Tipperary Youth Ensemble.
They will be joined by 'veteran' singer Nora Butler from Nenagh and Junior All Ireland Champion from Laois Martin Delaney. Also the special guest Seamus Begley in addition to performing on the accordion is a fine singer of both Irish and English Ballads. The programme will be completed by top class musicians, dancers and a storyteller.
Tickets can be booked at the theatre box office each day 2.00p.m. to 5.00p.m., phone (057) 9122911 and if that’s not convenient branch Treasurer Mary Darcy, Church St., Birr will arrange tickets.

13/11/2009
Birr 2nds Great Victory Over Tullamore 

Birr 30 Tullamore 0
Birr 2nds secured their first win of the season with a great victory over Tullamore at Riverside. Birr were unlucky not to have won a match before this after narrow defeats to Cill Dara & Athy. Birr have being making great progress this season with a settled squad. 
Fergus Shortt & Rory Dunne, making their first starts of the season, brought strength to the team to play our local rivals. Birr's scoring started after three minutes with the Birr backs creating a move from the training ground with James Rafferty scoring under the posts and Stephen Browne converting. 
Tullamore came into the game and were putting Birr under pressure but great defending by John Tooher and Stephen Molloy saved two certain tries. Birr forwards started to gain momentum and put pressure on Tullamore who conceded two penalties and Stephen Browne scored the two penalties. This left the half time score Birr 13 Tullamore 0. 
At half time Birr made two changes bringing on Brian Carroll and Brian Noonan to keep the pressure on Tullamore. Tullamore started the second half with great pressure but with Birr defending well and Sean Ryan starting to take the ball on at full back and running at Tullamore, Birr sapped up the pressure. 
With the match in the melting pot Ciaran Campbell was sprung from the bench to bring his experience and calmness to this youthful team. Ciaran replaced the impressive Stephen Browne who had to leave the field with a dead leg. 
Birr upped the pressure and it was not long before Sean Ryan had cut open the Tullamore defence and scored a try and Fergus Shortt converted. Birr's scoring had not stopped there with Brian Carroll being moved to centre and he took on a ball and scored in the corner. The last try was a great team effort starting with the forwards bringing the ball into the Tullamore 22 and Barry Whelahan moving the ball between the backs and with Jordan Culbert heading for the line, he popped the ball to P.J. Kavanagh to score the fourth try and secure a bonus point. 
Best for Birr were Danny Shortt, Stephen Browne, Barry Whelahan, Fergus Shortt, Jordan Culbert and Sean Ryan. 
Next week's match is against County Carlow at home. Training continues every Tuesday and Friday night at 7.30p.m. 
Birr Line Up: Sean Ryan, John Tooher, Jordan Culbert, James Rafferty, Stephen Molloy, Fergus Shortt, Barry Whelahan, Michael Hernon, P.J. Kavanagh, Maurice Rigney, Brendan Hynes, Rory Dunne, Danny Shortt, Jamie Flynn, Stephen Browne. Replacements; Ciaran Campbell, Eoin Garry, Brian Noonan, Brian Carroll, Eamon Murphy, Darra Culbert, Oisin McCormack, Kevin Purcell. 
We would like to congratulate Denis Shine and Stephanie Keogh who recently got married. 

13/11/2009
Birr Town Soccer Notes

Quiz Night 
Our Quiz night in Kelly's of The Green was well supported last Friday night. Many thanks to all our parents and players who turned out on the night. Thanks to John Kelly for hosting the event and to our committee for running the event. 
Inclement Weather 
The bad weather is playing havoc with our fixtures at the moment. Four games were called off last weekend and six the weekend before. We have to be patient and hope the weather will improve. 
Match Abandoned 
The girls U-16 game was abandoned 15 minutes into the second half last Saturday in Birr due to the heavy rain. Birr and Killeigh were deadlocked at 1-1 when the referee decided the pitch was unplayable. 
Bag Pack In Buckley's Supervalu
The Club have arranged a bag pack at the end of the month (21st/22nd November ,a Friday and Saturday) in Buckley's Supervalu, Main Street, Birr. Any one in the club interested in helping out please contact the club secretary John Kenny at (086) 8892429.
AGM 
At the recent AGM the following Officers and Committee were elected - Chairman P.J. Hoctor, Secretary John Kenny, Treasurer Dermot Horan, Vice-Chairman John Corboy, Committee Eamon Pardy, Sean Lowry, Liam Maloney, John Cahill. 
Signs 
There are some slots available in the field for sponsorship signs. Anyone interested should ring (086) 8892429. 

6/11/2009
Met Station Closure Marks End Of An Era In Weather Forecasting In Birr

Met Eireann has announced that the Met Station in Birr has been closed and the operation transferred to Gurteen, a few miles down the road.
People have greeted this news with regret because it brings to an end a connection between the town and weather forecasts that dates back to 1872.
The name Birr will no longer feature in national forecasts and instead we will be hearing the word Gurteen.
Met Eireann is gradually phasing out any stations run by people and replacing them with automated set-ups. Because of its urban location the Birr set-up had for a long time been in a far from ideal place and it's more appropriate that the region's forecasting will now be done in a rural area.
Joe Kerins lives in The Crescent, Birr, and he worked in Birr Met Station from 1957 to 2002. When he began in '57 there were five men in the facility including former Midland Tribune photographer Paddy Cotter who started working in the station in 1954.
'We had to report to Dublin every hour,' said Joe recalling his daily schedule, 'and we had to keep a constant observation on the weather changes. We read the temperature, humidity, rainfall level, the cloud cover. Cloud cover was read in octaves. If it was completely overcast then we would call it eight eighths of cloud. We also measured the wind's speed and its direction, and the atmospheric pressure.'
They initially reported to Dublin using a telephone. Telex replaced this mode of communication and then computers. Desmond O'Connor was in charge of the station and the other employees included Seamus Spellman from Kinnitty and John Roberts. After some years Ted Foley took over from Des O'Connor as the person in charge.
Joe remembered Paddy Cotter fondly. 'Paddy took me under his wing when I first started working there and showed me the ropes.' Joe saw the job advertised on the school noticeboard when he was a student in Tralee CBS (he recalled that all the subjects were taught through the medium of Irish). This was in the 1950s when unemployment was high and the economy was in a bleak place, shackled as it was by the insularity of the ruling classes. Joe was happy to get a decent job which wasn't too demanding.
Three men were working in Birr Met Station until a couple of months ago when Joe retired at the end of August. Joe Bergin and Aidan Martin are still working in the station but are not taking weather forecasts. They are doing alternative work for Met Eireann.
Liam Keegan of Met Eireann said the Birr station is owned by the OPW and the new automated station is located in Gurteen Agricultural College. It is located a good distance from the college buildings, in a field.
Mr Keegan said Met Eireann is not making its employees redundant as it pursues this policy of making all of its 14 weather stations person-free and automated. However, when people retire the company is not replacing them, something which is covered by the unpleasant term 'natural wastage'.
He said Met Eireann would have liked to keep the Birr station open but couldn't do so because the readings would be more accurate in a rural setting.
Finbar Maher worked in the station since 1964 and retired earlier this year. Finbar was originally from Bagenalstown, County Carlow, and pointed out that this civil service job was sometimes very strict. 'I remember one instance in the '60s when one of us broke two thermometers by accident and as a result wasn't given his promised payrise. There was a similar incident back in the '90s.'
Management could sometimes be strict, unsympathetic and 19th Century in its approach, which created an element of fear. 
Finbar recalled that Birr was a 24 hour station manned by five people and sometimes the employees had to work more than the legal limit of hours per week.
He pointed out that there hasn't been man-operated weather stations in England for several years.
Birr Meteorological Station began observing the weather on the 1st of October 1954. Prior to that Birr was one of four Irish telegraphing stations reporting for the British Meteorological Office which was operated by part-time observers who transferred to the Irish Meteorological Service on the 1st of April 1937. (The other stations were Malin Head, Blacksod Point and Roche's Point). The Fourth Earl of Rosse was interested in observing the weather and they started taking readings in Birr Castle from 1872. Readings may have been taken from high on the walls of the giant telescope. The closure of the station brings to an end 137 years of the town being connected with weather observation.
There have been several comments on the internet about the station's closure with all the contributors saying it's a pity to shut down the facility.

6/11/2009
Baby Boy For Laois/Offaly Dail Deputy

Dáil Deputy Olwyn Enright gave birth to a baby boy on Sunday evening last.
The child, who has been given the name Darragh Thomas McHugh, was born in Portiuncula Hospital Ballinasloe. He weighed a healthy 7lbs and six ounces.
The father Joe McHugh said both mother and baby were doing well. 'He is lovely,' commented Joe, 'and we are delighted.'
Joe and Olwyn were married back in July 2005 and they became the third married couple to be elected to sit in the same Dáil. They were both elected to Dáil Eireann in May 2007. Joe won a seat in the Donegal North-East constituency. This is their first child.

6/11/2009
Shoplifters Knock Staff Member To The Floor At Lidl

Staff confronted two shopliffters who entered the Lidl premises, Birr carrying rucksacks last Sunday evening around 5.30p.m.
Gardai stated that a Lidl staff member grew suspicious of one of the individual's and went to confront the suspect as he was passing the till. The man, in his bid to evade capture, pushed the female member of staff to the ground. Gardai reported that the staff member suffered a blow to her head when she fell and was subsequently taken to Tullamore Hospital as a precaution. 
The two individuals were then spotted running from the premises by a lorry delivery driver who attempted to tackle one of the men. However, despite the driver's valiant efforts, the two males both managed to escape. 
A Garda spokesperson stated that they are following a definite line of enquiry and are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or have any further information to contact the Birr Garda Station at (057) 91 20016.

6/11/2009
Two Men Arrested Following Birr Break-In

In the early hours of Tuesday morning October 27th last, the Shannon Development Technology Centre in Birr was broken into and a large flatscreen television was taken. 
Gardai reported that later that same day they arrested two local males in connection with the incident and recovered the stolen property. 
The two males were subsequently brought before Tullamore Court last Wednesday and were remanded in custody on charges of theft. They will appear before Birr District court on 10th November. 6/11/2009
Birr News Digest

Fashion Evening For Christmas Lights
Birr Chamber of Commerce are organising a special Fashion, Fun and Entertainment night as a fundraiser for this year's Christmas Lights in the town. The evening will be held in the County Arms Hotel on Thursday 5th November. Starting with a wine reception at 7.30p.m., you can browse through the lobby where fashion products will be on display. The show itself will start at 8.30p.m. and it should be an enjoyable evening, with a raffle and auction taking place later that night. Tickets are €15 and are available from most retailers on Main Street.

Comhaltas Concert
In addition to providing top class Traditional Musicians, Singers and Dancers for their annual concert, the members of Birr Comhaltas like to include some light entertainment and for this year’s event they have been lucky enough to secure one of the country’s leading Storytellers, Vincent Pierce from Roscommon. Vincent has been taking part in Comhaltas Tours for years and has built up a huge store of traditional stories and has a unique form of delivery. He can certainly be counted on to get the audience in good humour.
A novel item on this year’s programme is a troupe of Traditional Set Dancers. They are the renowned Galmoy Set from Laois and they specialise in dancing a local Set called the Thrashing Set.
 These are just two items in a fantastic line up for the concert which takes place in The Birr Theatre and Arts Centre on Sunday 22nd November. Booking has already opened at the theatre, phone (057) 9129911 and tickets are also available from members of the Branch Committee. Enquiries are already coming in and early booking is advisable.

ROSCAM - Foróige Club
The ROSCAM Foróige Club are currently looking for adult leaders. Foróige Clubs offer young people the opportunity to run the club themselves in co-operation with their adult leaders. The Leader's role is to enable members to do things for themselves, build relationships with members based on trust and respect, work in partnership with members in the running of the club, encourage members to reach their full potential, share their knowledge and skills with the members, to be a positive role model and to make sure that the Club is a safe place for everybody. Full training will be given by Foróige, so if you are over 18 and have a couple of hours a week to spare then please contact Gerri on (087) 2497771.  

Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
Internationally renowned psychic to the Stars, Lydia Lyne comes to Birr Theatre & Arts Centre on Friday 6th November. Her great gift is her clarity of insight and her ability to bring forward evidence and messages from the Spirit world. Lydia understands the problems of everyday life and her humanity and humour shines through in her stage performance. Don’t miss her!
The Film Club will be showing Rachel Getting Married on Tuesday 17th November in which Jonathan Demme (director) skilfully navigates the audience through a rollercoaster of emotions in this bittersweet serious comedy. 
Young at Heart is the Silver Screen presentation on Friday 20th November. British film-maker Stephen Walker has created a sweet-natured documentary about the Young@Heart Chorus, a singing ensemble from Massachusetts, whose members’ ages range from 75 to 93, and who specialise in full-blooded versions of rock standards. The movie is valuable in that it tackles head-on subjects that are verboten in our fastidious pop culture; old age and death.
Don’t miss the cream of local and national talent at the Comhaltas Annual Concert on Sunday 22nd November featuring Irish music, singing, dancing and storytelling. A night 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.

Birr Stage Guild AGM
Birr Stage Guild are holding their AGM on Thursday 12th November at 8.00p.m. in Dooly's Hotel Birr. All members of Birr Stage Guild are invited to attend.
 
Camcor Bridge Club
Camcor Bridge Club results: Turkey winners, Gemma Butler and Lena Guinan; Whiskey, Ann Hough and Sadie Leonard; Sherry, Ena Loughnane and Mary Ruttledge.
Winners from the previous week: 1st nett, Ita Cavanagh and Mary Kelly; Gross, Gemma Butler and Lena Guinan, Tommie Nee and Ann Ritchie (tie for gross); 2nd nett, Collette O'Brien and Margaret Feehan.

Alexa Boutique Birr
Alexa Boutique Birr are holding a fashion show on Friday 20th November in Dooly's Hotel, Birr at 8.30p.m. Glass of wine served on arrival. The show is in aid of Birr Lions Club and OSPCA. A fun filled night of fashion is guaranteed and Alexa will be introducing four new labels.

Wilmer Tennis Club
The club championships are progressing with action continuing in all five competitions. Those still involved are encouraged to arrange their games to keep the events moving smoothly.
The annual Christmas tournament is scheduled for Friday December 4th so remember to keep that date free in your diary.

'Grease' Reunion
Attention all past pupils who were involved in St Brendan's Community School's first production of Grease in 1989. Anyone interested in attending this year's production of Grease on Saturday November 21st, please contact Val on (086) 3584715 or Jackie on (086) 4021537 (after 6p.m.) for booking of seats before Monday November 9th to guarantee seats. Post show get together at County Arms Hotel for music and craic. Partners welcome. 

Relocation Sale
Relocation Sale at Mannion's TV and Electrical, Syngefield, Birr. A sale not to be missed. (Advert).

Birr Choral Society
So you enjoy singing? Would you like to join a choral group and take part in their activities. Birr Choral Society are currently on the look out for new recruits and would be delighted to her from anyone who might be interested in getting involved. Their next meeting is on Friday next November 6th in the hall at the back of the Methodist Church on Emmet Street. Currently they are preparing for Christmas and there will be a concert in the new year, which will feature music from the shows and other favourites. If interested go along on Friday night and join in.

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. Also there are Heneghan's Nursery and Athenry Foods. (Advert).
 
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 John (086) 8033126 or (057) 9351124. Website: www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Sue Ryder Foundation
The Sue Ryder Foundation is the largest provider of accommodation for the elderly in the country. They support this activity through their charity shop in Birr. If you have clothes or furniture to donate for the support of their work, contact them on (057) 91 21227 or call to the shop.

Services For Deaf And Hard Of Hearing People
On Wednesday 4th & 18th November, at the Old Health Centre, John's Terrace, Birr, from 10a.m. to 1p.m., there is a free service where you can get advice about hearing aids, equipment for your home to help you hear the doorbell, phone, smoke alarm, television. Also information on Irish Sign Language, Tinnitus and Lip-reading. 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. Appointments can be made for a private consultation for hearing aids in Tullamore; hearing aids are competitively priced at €950 or €1,250 each, or you can phone 1800 677 247. 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).

Birr Parent And Toddler group
Birr Parent and Toddler group meet every Tuesday morning 10.30a.m.-12.30p.m. in the Family Resource Centre in Glebe Street. Lots of fun and toys for your toddlers and babies, come and have a coffee while getting to know other parents and guardians. Cost is €3 per family. See you there!

Pilates In Rath
Pilates class every Monday at 8p.m. in Rath hall. Pilates is great for toning, strengthening, posture, flexibility and relaxation. This is a drop in class, it's €10 per class, come and join the fun!

Birr Photography Group
Meeting every Wednesday at 8p.m. in Tin Jug Studio, Brendan Street, Birr. Learn new photographic skills, enjoy chat, share information, demonstrations and talks. New members always welcome. Call Joe (087) 657 4820 for more information.
 
Ballyegan Gardening Club Diaries
Ballyegan Gardening Club would like to express a big thank you to Johnny Burke who gave a wonderful presentation last Wednesday week. They hope to visit Johnny's garden next year. 
Their next meeting will be held in Ballyegan Hall on Wednesday 11th of November at 8p,m. Dermot Ward, tree surgeon will be the speaker on the night. He will speak on trees for Autumn colour and small tree pruning.
Don't forget your plant for the plant table! Please bring your surplus fruit, veg bulbs, house and garden plants and buy what you need to increase your collection.

Karaoke Night
Karaoke night on Saturday 7th November in McNamara's pub Shinrone. This event is to raise funds for the playground in Shinrone. All welcome.
 
Crinkle Sport And Recreation Centre
Crinkle Sport and Recreation Centre invite all parents and toddlers in the area for a chat and refreshments on Tuesday next November 10th from 10a.m. to 12 noon.

Boxercise
Reebok Martial Art (Boxercise) for over 16's in Crinkle Sports & Recreation Centre on Monday November 16th from 7p.m.- 8p.m.
 
Social Dancing
Social dancing in Rath Community Centre on Thursday November 5th with music by Dermot Lyons.

Thank You
Fighting Blindness would like to extend sincere thanks to Brian Colohan and the members of Birr GAA Club for assisting at their recent church gate collection in Birr. The amount raised was €946.76 and thanks to everyone for their kind contributions.

Table Quizzes
The series of table quizzes in Kelly's, The Green, are continuing on Friday nights for the coming months in aid of different clubs and societies each night. Next Friday's quiz is in aid of Birr Town Soccer Club.

Kilcoman Set Dancing Classes:
Set Dancing Classes will take place in the Blackbull, Sharavogue every Tuesday night at 9pm.
Feár an Tí is Pat O’Toole and steps will be demonstrated by Billy and Teresa Hynes. All are welcome to attend especially beginners. Fee only €3.

Birr Neighbourhood Watch 
Birr Neighourhood Watch Committee have expressed how much they appreciate the generosity of all those who contributed and supported their Fund Raising Raffle held on Friday 23rd October in the Marian Hall. Thanks to all the Bingo Patrons, it was a very successful Fund Raising Night. Thanks are extended to Marian Hall Committee for allowing the raffle to take place and especially to Martin Walsh who kindly compered the event. Many thanks to Birr Golf Club, Zandra's Fashions, Marian Hall Committee, Dooly's Hotel & Hanlon's Butcher's who kindly sponsored the prizes.
 
Birr Active Retirement Group
Two members of the group St Roberta and Lily Tait attended the General Council meeting on Wednesday 14th of October in the Green Isle Hotel Dublin. The next meeting will be on Thursday the 5th of November in the Resource Centre Londis Car Park at 7.30pm. New members welcome.

Birr Town Quiz Night
Birr Town Soccer Club are holding a Quiz Night in Kelly's of the Green this Friday night 6th of November starting at 9.30pm. All players and parents are urged to support this fundraising event. Please come along and test your knowledge in this fun event. For info call (086) 8892429.

Birr Book Club
The next book club meeting will be held on Monday 9th November. The book for this month is 'Rush Home Road' by Lori Lenson (chosen by Sandra) All are welcome. (057) 91 39028.

Birr Social Club
Teams Snooker Tournament in aid of the Birr Community Nursing Unit is taking place at Birr Social Club. Results: Jeff Corrigans beat Sids 3-2. This was sweet revenge as Sid's beat Corrigan's 3-2 in last year's final. Snowball beat Gardaí 4-1. Fixtures: This week: POCG v E Nolan, Sunrise Inn v Grants, Careys Butchers (Nenagh) v Simon W, Cherry Tree v P Ryans. 
The committee and members extend a vote of sympathy to the Donnelly family on the recent death of Brendan, first cousin of club member Richie Donnelly.

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 8.30pm sharp. 
Progressive 25 Drive: Top prize on Sunday night was won on 12 games by Stephen Lonergan and Jack Maher. Two pairs had 11 games Pat Craven and Kieran Guinan, Jarlath Tobin and Pat Tumulty. The last game went to Tom and Alex Kennedy while the table prize was won by Jim Gallogly and Pat Heenan. Raffle prize winners were Carmel Nugent, Michael Burke and Paddy Daly. Cards continue on Sunday night at 9p.m. sharp with a jackpot of €100 on 14 games.

Birr Town Lotto
Numbers drawn in the Birr Town lotto this week were 4, 15, 18, 29. Bonus number was 16. No jackpot winner or no match three winner. Five names drawn receive €40 each: N & P, c/o PJ, David Mullen c/o County Arms, Aisling and Kids, Fergal Mulrooney c/o Franks, Assumpta Hogan, Hawthorn Drive. Next week's Jackpot €3,600 with bonus number €6,600. Draw in Kelly's Green Street Monday November 9th. Thanking all for continued support.

Highfield Utd Lotto
Numbers drawn in this week's Highfield United lotto were 2, 11, 12, 28. No Jackpot winner. One match three winner receives €150, Marian Grainger, c/o seller. Next week's Jackpot is €9,750 and the draw takes place in Haverty's. Thanks to Pilkington's and everybody who supports the lotto every week.

Four Seasons Garden Club 
The Four Seasons Garden Club will have their next meeting on Monday 9th of November in Rath Hall in the supper room at 8p.m. David O'Meara, (O'Meara's Pharmacy, Birr) will attend and deliver a talk on the topic of 'Health and Lifestyle'. There will also be a ten minutes meeting on the night. Everyone is welcome. 6/11/2009
Fundraising Fashion Night For Birr Christmas Lights

Birr Chamber of Commerce are organising a special Fashion, Fun and Entertainment night entitled 'Light Up the Night' as a fundraiser for this year's Christmas Lights in the town. It will be held in the County Arms Hotel on this Thursday November 5th.
Mairead & Dom, Elvis and Tina Turner will be among the entertainment provided. There will be a raffle and action with fantastic prizes and fashion and fun thrown in for an evening packed with activity. 
The night will be fun and entertaining with 11 fashion shops from Birr showing their style, with special guests through the night. 
Start off the evening at 7.30p.m. with complimentary wine (sponsored by Emma's) and nibbles (Midland Fine Foods and the County Arms Hotel). Browse the foyer of the hotel with stands from local businesses. Then into the ballroom for an evening packed with entertainment and brilliant prizes donated by local retailers.
It's all in aid of the Christmas Lights fund. Birr Chamber of Commerce invites you to join them on the night. Tickets are €15 are are available at the local shops and on the door.
The organisers say there is a great sense of teamwork and co-operation among the business community working on this event. They add that the idea for the evening arose because of the substantial, once-off, additional cost this year of wiring Main, Connaught and Castle Streets for the Christmas lighting. This rewiring was a requirement of the ESB on safety grounds.
The organisers say people's support for this fundraising evening will be much appreciated and the lights are an essential part of Christmas in the town.

6/11/2009
Birr Community Nursing Unit

The Birr Community Nursing Unit celebrated Halloween in style with a full week of events, including Pumpkin carving, decoration making, barn brack cooking, film evening, halloween games, storytelling and music with Barbara and Blaithin and their friend John. A big thank you to them from all residents and staff. 
There were Halloween games/competitions between all the units for best halloween decorations which was won by Camcor suite - well done guys. The Halloween quiz was won by our brainy Suzie O'Meara. 
On Saturday evening the unit was visited by 'Pookies' of all ages, for trick and treat which was much enjoyed by everyone. A big thank you to Mary from Birr Tesco's who donated all our treats for our 'Pookies'. It was much appreciated by the Nursing Unit and finally a thank you to all who took part in the fun and games during the week. 

6/11/2009
Brian Cody In Birr

Brian Cody will be in Birr next Sunday, not with his All-Ireland four-in-a-row champions, but as part of the promotion for his recently-published autobiography.
He will be signing copies of his book in the County Arms Hotel, Birr from 5p.m. to 7p.m. and will no doubt be available to answer questions as to why he believes the Leinster and Munster championships should be scrapped in favour of a new format.
That's one of the very forthright views expressed in 'Cody - The Autobiography' which also reveals the philosophies behind the amazing success of his great Kilkenny team while also delving back into his own playing career which lasted 13 years at top level. The book also feaures Cody's diary of the 2009 season, which ended in triumph as Kilkenny clinched the four-in-a-row in September.   
'I promised an honest book and that’s what I’ve written. I hope it appeals not just to hurling people but to the wider community too,' said Cody.
'Cody - The Autobiography' is published by Irish Sports Publishing and co-written with Martin Breheny, GAA Editor of the Irish Independent. 6/11/2009
Birr Stage Guild Hosts Third One Act Drama Festival

Birr Stage Guild hosted its third annual One Act Drama Festival in Birr Theatre & Arts Centre over the October Bank Holiday weekend. 
Nine different groups travelled from various parts of the country to take part over the three nights, providing a varied and entertaining selection of plays.
The adjudicator was Tom Doherty, ADA, who provided constructive criticism and encouraging words for the different groups in his summation at the end of each night's performances. At the end of the final night he also selected prizewinners in the various categories.
On the opening night, the festival was opened by Corofin Dramatic Society with 'The Key' written by Gerard Kennedy, who was also the co-director.
Camross Drama Group then presented 'Spring' by T.C. Murray, which was directed by Des Waters.
The final play on opening night was 'Mickey Kannis Caught My Eye' by Geraldine Aron, which was performed by Shannonside Drama Group and directed by Pauline Moloney. 
The second night began with 'Virtual Reality' by Alan Arkin. This play was presented by Dark Horse Drama Group and was directed by Carol Ryan.
Swan Music and Theatre Group then performed 'The Extraordinary Revelations Of Orca The Goldfish' by David Tristam. The play was directed by Donal Howard.
Saturday night concluded with Bray Arts Group performing James Prideaux's 'The Librarian", directed by Derek Pullen.
On the final night Eden Drama Group opened the proceedings with 'A Galway Girl' by Geraldine Aron, which was directed by Gay Veitch.
Bradan Players Leixlip then presented 'The Quality of Boiled Water' by Jason Milligan. The play was directed by Tom Byrne.
The final play of the Festival was Barry McKinley's 'Small Box Psychosis', performed by Backstage Theatre Group Longford and directed by Gus Hanley.
The winners of the various categories were announced at the end of the final night. The Dr John Lucey Award for the Best Play in the Open Section went to Bradán Players Leixlip with 'The Quality Of Boiled Water'.
The Best Play in the Confined section and recipients of the Birr Stage Guild Award were Backstage Theatre Group with 'Small Box Psychosis'.
The James I. Fanning Award for the Best Director Open went to Tom Byrne of Bradán Players Leixlip, while the Best Director Confined, went to Gus Hanley of Backstage Theatre Group.
The Anne O'Meara Award for the Best Actor Open was won by Rosary Morley-McPhillips for her performance in Bray Arts Group's 'The Librarian', while the Best Actor Confined and recipient of the Tony & Margaret Hogan Award went to Benny O'Brien of Backstage Theatre Group Longford.
This was a very entertaining weekend of theatre and provided plenty of enjoyment for patrons who turned up at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre.

6/11/2009
Golfing In The Glenns 

Open 3 Ball Competition
Starting on 9th November and running until April 2010, Birr Club will run an open 3-ball competition over 18 holes with the best two scores to count at each hole. The teams are composed of any combination ladies/gents and the competition is sponsored by Birr Golf Shop and Driving Range, Callaway and Trackman. Three teams will qualify each month with the grand final in May 2010. Play will be from Monday to Saturday with the handicap limits of men/20 and ladies/30. Entry is €10 for members and €20 for visitors. This will be an exciting competition over the winter and spring and no doubt will prove attractive to all golfers. 
Club Trophies
The elements turned nasty over the weekend and caused the postponement of the club finals. They will now take place next Sunday. Tee reserved from 12.30p.m. to 1.10p.m. First up are Conor Slevin v Gavin Young for the Loughnane Cup. 2nd are Seamas Breen v Pat Madden for the Hackett Cup. 3rd Michael Kilcommins v Enda Carroll for the Kenny Cup and finally at 1.10p.m., Billy McGarry v Declan Gath for the Club Championship. Good luck to all on the day.
Ladies’ Golf
Results: 14-Hole Turkey: 1st Marie Tooher 29 points; 2nd Carina Gleeson 29 points; 3rd Lady President Mary Ryan 26 points.
9 Hole v Par: 1st Maura Flannery 1 up; 2nd Thérése Kennedy 1 down
14 Hole Hamper Ongoing, sponsored by Hanlon’s Butchers, Birr.
Glenn Eagles, 22nd October. Lady President Mary Ryan, Roma Gilmartin, Valerie Coleman and Margaret McDonagh 46.1. Next Outing Thursday 5th November.
Ladies AGM is on Friday 20th November.
For Your Diary
Monday November 2nd to Sunday November 8th: 18h. Hamper sponsored by Thursday Seniors. 
Saturday November 7th/Sunday November 8th: Open Hamper.
Monday November 2nd to Sunday November 8th: 9h Turkey. Stableford. First 9.
Thursday November 5th: 10.15a.m. Seniors.  
Monday November 9th: 8.30a.m. to 1.00p.m. Garda Christmas Hamper.
Tuesday November 10th: 10a.m. Bridge in Club House. All welcome. Contact: Mary O’Gorman.
Thursday November 19th: 9.45. Mass for deceased members.
Tuesday November 17th: 8p.m. Men’s AGM.
Friday November 20th: 8p.m. Ladies’ AGM.
Tuesday December 1st: 8p.m. Management AGM.
Results
9h Turkeys: 1st Joe Rowland (12) 23 pts. 2nd Pat Molloy (13) 21 pts. 3rd Dick Johnston (16) 21 pts. 4th Dan Kealy (21) 21 pts.
Seniors Outing to Rathdowney. Cat 1. J. Wimms 43, D. Johnston 38, T. McTague 36, P. McGuinness 34, B. Guinan 33; Cat 2. M. Stephens 42, P. Walshe 35, M. Hynes 35, T. Duffy 35, J. Hynes 33; Cat 3. T. Nestor 40, D. Kealy 37, C. McGarry 36, T. Rosney 33, J. Madden 33; Cat 4. D. Quinn 39, E. McDonagh 38, S. Coakley 37, P. Byrne 35, B. Wilks 33.
Seniors Golf in future will commence at 10.15a.m. Changed from our original time of 10a.m.
Midland Alliance
Next Sunday’s Midland Alliance will take place in Moate. Time: 9.00a.m. to 12.30p.m. Contact: C. Malone at (086) 805 3203.

6/11/2009
Birr Camogie Club

Two Birr Players Receive Soaring Star Awards
It has been a great week for the Birr club as on Monday week last Audrey Kennedy and Arlene Watkins were named among the six Offaly players to receive Soaring Star Awards after their All Ireland Junior Camogie victory. The girls will be presented with the awards at the All Star Awards in Citywest Hotel on this Saturday November 7th. Well done girls this is just reward for all the work you have put in over the year and the club are very proud of you as we are of the other girls on the team who won All Ireland medals, Sheila Sullivan, Katie Bergin and Orlagh Kirwan. Well done and congratulations also to the other Soaring Stars Michaela Morkan, Fiona Stephens, Karen Brady and Elaine Dermody. 
 
Minors Victorious In B Final
Our minor girls took on Kilcormac/Killoughey in Banagher on Sunday week last. This was always going to be a tough game as the sides have always been evenly matched over the years. The Birr girls are a young team and they are all underage again next year so it was a test for them but most of these girls have been together for over four years and have improved steadily along the way. Some of the girls from the Feile panel were brought on to give them experience and they proved to be well able to cope at this level and played a vital role in getting to the final. Nadia Feehan, Ria Harding, Jessica Spain and Fiona Guinan have all stepped up to the mark with ease.
The game was played in mixed weather conditions with a cross field wind and some rain showers also. K/K were first to score with a point from play after seven minutes, Birr replied with a well taken point by sharp shooter Orlagh Kirwan. Orlagh also got the next point from play after some good work by Jane Ryan in defence. K/K then got a goal and Birr were under pressure at midfield but the defence was excellent and Emily Quinlan and Jessica Spain kept the forwards from scoring more and Shauna Carroll made some good saves also. Jane McCarthy and Julie Stephens were both doing good work at midfield and Rebecca Hoctor who was beginning to get into her stride delivered a great ball to Sarah Pilkington and a great strike on the ground hit the back of the net. K/K pointed again before half time to leave it all square at the break at 1-2 each.
The second half saw Birr step up the pace of the game. Kelly Ann Milne and Caroline Soupe along with captain Gillian Molloy took control of the half back line and K/K had to strike from out the field. Shauna Carroll coped very well with these balls and delivered them back to the half forward line and Angela Ryan gathered one and strode through for a lovely point from play.
Julie Stephens did excellent work and her accurate pass to Orlagh Kirwan sent her on her way which resulted in a goalmouth scramble but when the ball broke Orlagh's strike was unstoppable and hit the top of the net. Orlagh then pointed a 45m free which Fiona Guinan had won and Birr were now five points in front midway through the half. 
K/K fought back with a point from play and one from a free to leave only three points between them again. That was to be K/K's last score and Birr went on to add another excellent goal by Angela Ryan after great work by Dearbhaile Sheils who had replaced Nadia Feehan who had picked up a hand injury. Eimear Teehan repaced Fiona Guinan and Sarah Pilkington almost got her second goal of the day but she got hooked as she was about to strike. The clearance came to Orlagh Kirwan and she took her point to end the scoring. Final score Birr 3-5 K/K 1-4.
Team: Shauna Carroll, Jane Ryan, Emily Quinlan, Jessica Spain, Kelly Ann Milne, Gillian Molloy(capt), Caroline Soupe, Angela Ryan (1-1), Jane McCarthy, Orlagh Kirwan (1-4), Julie Stephens, Rebecca Hoctor, Nadia Feehan, Sarah Pilkington (1-0), Fiona Guinan, Dearbhaile Sheils, Eimear Teehan, Ria Harding, Laura Roddy.
Birr played lovely camogie and did the simple things well. They grew in confidence as the game went on and each girl played the best they could and it was a total team performance. This was a great way to end the season as most of the girls have been training since January with the senior panel and they can now enjoy the break and look forward to the presentation of medals as most of them have junior medals to collect also.
Well done to the management team of Patrick Hoctor, Mick Hough, Des Ryan and Pat Ryan who have worked well with the girls.
We wish Nadia Feehan, Fiona Guinan and Ria Harding speedy recoveries.
 
Congratulations
Very best wishes to Gail and Jim Spain on the birth of their baby boy Peter. We all hope that Gail will continue her great work with the underage teams next season and she will have no bother getting babysitters over the year ahead!!!29/10/2009
Birr Native Killed In Road Crash

A 24 year old Birr native was one of two men who died following a two car crash in Co. Cork in the early hours of Monday morning.
Brendan Donnelly, with an address at Old Tramore Road, Waterford, was originally from Mill Street, Birr, and was a member of a popular Birr family. 
Brendan, along with his friend Lee Stalkeld, aged 26 years, also from Old Tramore Rd, Waterford, died following the collision on the N25 at Caherulton, Castlemartyr, Co. Cork at approximately 2.45a.m. on Monday morning.
Two cars travelling in opposite directions collided, resulting in the death of the two men. Two other females in the car, one of whom was driving, were injured and were taken to Cork University Hospital where they are being treated for their injuries. Their conditions are described as being stable. The four of them were heading towards Cork Airport where they were due to depart on a holiday break.
The other car had a male driver as it's sole occupant. His car was left at the scene but he left the area.
Following an investigation of the collision he was arrested later at Ballinacurra, Midleton.
He is in his 20's and was detained at Midleton Garda Station under section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act.
Brendan Donnelly is survived by his mother, Christine, brother, Sean, partner Laura, uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, relatives and friends, to all of whom deepest sympathy is extended on their tragic loss.
His remains will be removed from Boyd's Funeral Home, Birr, on this Wednesday evening at 5.30p.m., arriving at St Brendan's Church, Birr at 6.30p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday at 11a.m. and burial will follow in Clonoghill Cemetery.

29/10/2009
Carrig School Children Win Top Award At Film Festival

Carrig National School in Birr won an award for most Outstanding Achievement in Film Making for 'Choreography' with their film ‘Commercial Chaos.’ The event took place last week in the Helix at Dublin City University.
Twenty-five awards were presented to schools to celebrate their outstanding film achievements in areas such as animation, acting, editing and direction. Over 700 children and their teachers from around Ireland attended the special award ceremony as The Helix buzzed with excitement.
Commenting on the National FÍS Film Festival, Anne White, National Co-ordinator with the National Centre for Technology in Education (NCTE), said, 'FÍS truly is a visionary approach to learning and inspires children to let their imagination and creativity take control and allows their ideas come to life in their films. Through the use of digital video they are exploring film-making and their magical minds.'
This is the fifth year the National FÍS Film Festival celebrates outstanding film achievements by primary school children. FÍS is managed by the National Centre for Technology in Education (NCTE) in collaboration with the Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art Design and Technology (IADT).

29/10/2009
Council Shouldn't Spend Money On Birr Monument Says Councillor

A Councillor told the recent meeting of Birr Town Council that the Council shouldn't be spending its money on the restoration of the 18th Century pillar in Emmet Square.
The Birr Monument is a national treasure and an item of great cultural significance but had fallen into disrepair. Work on its restoration recently began. The statue of the Duke of Cumberland, aka the Butcher of Culloden, once stood on its top before it was pulled down by Scottish soldiers in 1915.
Town Clerk Mary Gaughran commented that Birr Town Council will contribute €24,000 towards the restoration of the monument.
Cllr Denis Shiels remarked that €24,000 is a lot of money to spend on the monument and he believed this money should be redirected elsewhere.
'This year because of the recession,' he said, 'we have far less funds for our projects, and there are many projects around the town which need to be done and are not being done.'
Cllr Michael Loughnane disagreed. 'I was pleasantly surprised to see the scaffolding go up around the pillar. I think it is definitely a step forward and I would like to commend all involved especially the Heritage Officer Amanda Pedlow who managed to secure funding for the restoration.'
In other business the Area Engineer Willie Ryan told the meeting that repair works on a number of footpaths in the town had started, and the traffic lights on Seffin are close to completion but there will be a delay of a couple of weeks while waiting for the ESB to connect power to them.
Mr Ryan added that the construction of the two Tesco roundabouts will start at the beginning of November. These roundabouts will be located at the Roscrea Road and Westgate entrances to Tesco's.
Ms Gaughran said the restoration work on the gate to Syngefield House will be completed by the end of this year, and Tesco's had promised to move their recycling bins to a more suitable and less noisy site.   
Mr Ryan pointed out that buses stopping in Emmet Square were not suitable and bus-stops will be created on Wilmer Road, where all bus companies including local and national companies will be expected to stop in future.
Cllr John Carroll commented that Bus Eireann will no longer be coming through Birr and therefore the Wilmer Road stops won't be used as much.
Cllr Michael Campbell suggested the Council talk to Kearns, who he called the biggest bus company in Offaly, and see what they think about the proposed move to Wilmer Road.
He added that the zebra crossing at the junction of Emmet Square and Emmet Street is extremely dangerous and should be removed. Cllr Tony McLoughlin, Chairman, agreed, saying that drivers' vision of pedestrians is impeded at that crossing.
Mr Ryan said he will carry out a safety audit of the crossing and the general traffic situation in Emmet Square needs to be looked at again.
Cllr Shiels pointed out that the traffic situation is sometimes dangerous at the junction boxes at the entrances to McAuley Drive and Sandymount.
Cllr Carroll said the rear of the Drumbane houses will have to be improved because it doesn't look well and is not creating a good impression. They could also improve the area around the statue of the hurler, which commemorates the fact that the first All Ireland Senior Hurling Final was played in Birr. He said handrailings are needed on the steps going down to the Camcor River walk.
Cllr Noel Russell said road resurfacing needs to be carried out at the Cherrytree Junction. He said railing was removed at the Rugby field and needs to be replaced.
'Some of the grass cutting at a number of places in the town wasn't done to a satisfactory level,' Cllr Russell continued. 'For example the grass in the Crescent and Fairview needs to be cut again.'
The councillor said some of the footpath paving is lifting up and someone could trip over it and hurt themselves.
Cllr Bernie Fanneran said that Minister Dempsey announced this week that the rural transport bus service would be saved. 
She added that the grass at the entrance roadways to the town needs to be cut, as does ivy in Bulfin Park which is blocking light going into a pensioner's kitchen.
Cllrs McLoughlin and Carroll mentioned the poor quality of the fencing at the rear of Scurragh.
Cllr Loughnane said there's a gap between railings leading out onto Wilmer Road from the playground and this needs to be closed off as it could prove dangerous.
Mr Ryan said he wasn't aware of that and would treat the matter as urgent.
'The playground is one of the best facilities we have in the town,' said Cllr Campbell. 'It is hugely used and the misbehaviour that was occurring there has now stopped.'
Cllr Campbell put the following motion to the Council: 'That this Council calls on the Minister of Social and Family Affairs to change the regulations to include families of people who because of physical or mental disability have not ever been part of the PRSI system to claim the Death Grant on their demise.' The councillors supported the motion and Cllr Shiels said many people have had a problem with this issue.
Ms Gaughran said the Chamber of Commerce is very concerned about this year's Rates and had requested a meeting with Birr Town Council.
Cllr Campbell said he attended an alcohol conference in Killarney which he found very interesting and which looked at the problems associated with alcohol.
Cllr Denis Tierney commented that the proposed town-twinning with Ledegem in Belgium was a positive thing, and the councillors recently visited Ledegem at their own expense.
Cllr Campbell proposed a vote of sympathy to Council official Deirdre Delaney on the death of her uncle.

29/10/2009
Birr Chamber Hosting Fashion Evening For Christmas Lights

Birr Chamber of Commerce are organising a special Fashion, Fun and Entertainment night as a fundraiser for this year's Christmas Lights in the town. 
The night will be fun and entertaining with 11 fashion shops from Birr showing their style, with special guests through the night. The evening will be held in the County Arms Hotel on Thursday the 5th of November.
Starting with a wine reception at 7.30p.m., you can browse through the lobby where fashion products will be on display. The show itself will start at 8.30p.m. and it should be an enjoyable evening, with a raffle and auction taking place later that night. 
Tickets are €15 and are available from most retailers on Main Street.
The organisers say there is a great sense of teamwork and co-operation among the business community working on this event. They add that the idea for the evening arose because of the substantial, once-off, additional cost this year of wiring Main, Connaught and Castle Streets for the Christmas lighting. This rewiring was a requirement of the ESB on safety grounds.
The organisers say people's support for this fundraising evening will be much appreciated and the lights are an essential part of Christmas in the town.

29/10/2009
Birr News Digest

Carrig/Riverstown Foróige Club  
Carrig/Riverstown Foróige club registration night will take place on Monday 2nd November at 8.00p.m. sharp. All young people 12-18 years are invited to attend. Parents/Guardians must attend with their child to register and pay the affilliation fee of €15 per person or €25 per family on the night. The Foróige club will meet on Monday evenings from 8.00-9.00p.m. during the school term. There will be a charge of €2 per night. Activities in the club will include sports, drama, music, inter club events and much much more.
 
Ramblers In Eirinn
On Sunday, 1st November 2009, meet at 2.00p.m. at Eglish RC Church for tree planting ceremony in memory of deceased former members followed by walk to Old Eglish cemetery where a talk will be given on some of the local families and on interesting headstones. All welcome. 
For your diary please note - A table quiz will be held in Enroute, Fivealley on Friday 27th November. 
 
Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
Hullabaloo! the 3rd Annual Offaly’s Children’s Arts Festival begins on this Wednesday 28th and runs until Saturday 31st October. There are over 35 workshops in eight venues throughout the town and it promises to be a highly entertaining event for all participants, children and parents alike. Sessions include Dance, Art, Crafts, Circus Skills, Films, Storytelling, a number of live Performances, Kids Photography, Writing Scary Stories, Puppet Workshops and a Halloween Party.
Music lovers are in for a treat on Sunday 1st November when Opera UK present 'A Night At The Opera'. Six talented soloists will perform well loved favourites and selections from music theatre and operatta from Lehar, Gilbert & Sullivan, Gershwin and Bernstein. A narrator will guide you through the mystery and mayhem of those complicated opera plots. What more could you want?
Cherry Blossom (Kirschblüten-Hanami), a German/Japanese language film deals with the inevitability of death on Tuesday 3rd November. Exquisitely made, this gentle intelligent film, which is full of warm humour, requires and solicits a certain generosity of spirit and an openess to experience, but what it offers in return is something remarkable. 
Internationally renowned psychic to the Stars, Lydia Lyne comes to Birr Theatre & Arts Centre on Friday 6th November. Her great gift is her clarity of insight and her ability to bring forward evidence and messages from the Spirit world. Lydia understands the problems of everyday life and her humanity and humour shines through in her stage performance. Don’t miss her!
Box office opens 1p.m.-5.30p.m. Monday-Friday. (057) 9122911 or check out www.birrtheatre.com for further details.

SPCA Enhanced Neutering Scheme
Roscrea Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is running an Enhanced Neutering Offer from Monday 19th October to Saturday October 31st.  
Last year 15,000 unwanted dogs were euthanised in pounds in Ireland - many of these were handed in by their owners. Be a responsible pet owner - neuter your dog or cat now.
Female dogs cost €35 (normally €60+), male dog/female cat/male cat €25 (normally €40). Ring (086) 3582440 for further information.

Pet Owners Alert!
Pet owners - please remember to keep your dog in a safe environment as bangers and fireworks are being let off at the present time. A number of pet owners have reported missing or traumatised pet to the SPCA. It is very important if you find a dog straying to contact SPCA, the Gardai and vets so that these dogs can be reunited with their owners.

Birr Photography Group
'Halloween: A Scary Photographic Tour' exhibition at Emma’s Café, Main Street, Birr from 24th October. Vote for your favourite 'Scary' picture and enter the free draw to win that photograph. Call Joe on (087) 657 4820 for more information.

Halloween Fancy Dress
The annual Halloween Fancy Dress party will be held at The Chestnut, Birr, on Saturday night next October 31st. Music by Ducky Fuzz. €150 prize for best costume on the night.

Clareen ICA Meeting
A meeting of Clareen ICA will take place this Monday 2nd November at 8.30p.m.

Birr Garden Club
Birr Garden Club will meet in Dooly's Hotel this Tuesday 3rd November at 8p.m. The speaker will be from Moore's Garden Centre. All are welcome.

Marian Hall Notes
Bingo: The Jackpot on Friday night last was not won. The Jackpot on Friday night next is €3,000 on 47 calls with a top game of €300 if not won. Calling as usual 8.30pm sharp. 
Progressive 25 Drive: Top prize winners with 13 games on Sunday night were Stephen Lonergan and Jack Maher. Joe Kerins and Frank Mulvey had 11 games while four pairs had lucky 10, Michael Caffrey and Frieda Tierney, Mary and Tony Larkin, Eugene and Reggy Martin, Tom and C. Kennedy. The last game went to Joe Colgan and Pascal Ryan while the table prize went to Tom Carroll and Bridget Reddan. Raffle prizes were won by Pat Craven, Tom Kennedy and P.J. Nevin. Cards continue at 9p.m. sharp with a jackpot of €100 on 14 games.

Birr Social Club
Teams snooker tournament in aid of the Birr Community Nursing Unit. Results: Tony Macs w/o from Declan Murrays, Pilkingtons bt Brian Guinans 3-2. 
Fixtures for this week: Sids v R. Donnelly, Gardaí v Snowball, Careys Butchers v Simon W, POCG v E. Nolan, Wed 4th: Sunrise v Grants. 
The club's committee and members would like to offer its congratulations to Chairman Derek Kelly and Denise on the recent birth of their daughter Aimee. 
The committee and members would like to offer a vote of sympathy to the O'Callaghan family on the recent death of Nancy. Nancy was the aunt of club secretary Junior O'Callaghan.

Classic Cuts Hair Salon 
As seen on Off The Rails and Xposé the Keratin Complex and Smoothing Therapy and the 12 week blowdry are now available in Classic Cuts Hair Salon, Main Street, Birr. For appointment contact (057) 91 21266. Christmas Giftsets are also available including Revlon 2 Phase plus Matrix. (Advert)

'Grease' Reunion
Attention all past pupils who were involved in St Brendan's Community School's first production of Grease in 1989. Anyone interested in attending this year's production of Grease on Saturday November 21st, please contact Val on (086) 3584715 or Jackie on (086) 4021537 (after 6p.m.) for booking of seats before Monday November 9th to guarantee seats. Post show get together at County Arms Hotel for music and craic. Partners welcome. 

Highfield United Lotto
Numbers drawn in this week's Highfield United lotto were 3, 4, 6 and 27. No Jackpot winner. Two match 3s receive €75 each, Shane Kelly c/o S Taylor, Stephen Pardy c/o Seller. Next week's jackpot is €9,600 and the draw takes place in Pilkington's. Thank you to all who support the Lotto every week.

Birr Town Lotto
Numbers drawn in the Birr Town FC lotto this week were 2, 16, 22 and 26. Bonus number 19. No jackpot winner. One match three winner receives €200 - Kathleen Kelly, 21 New Road. Next week's Jackpot is €3,400 and with bonus number €6,400. Draw in Craughwell's Monday 2nd November. Thanking all for their continued support.
  
Fashion Evening For Christmas Lights
Birr Chamber of Commerce are organising a special Fashion, Fun and Entertainment night as a fundraiser for this year's Christmas Lights in the town. The evening will be held in the County Arms Hotel on Thursday 5th November. Starting with a wine reception at 7.30p.m., you can browse through the lobby where fashion products will be on display. The show itself will start at 8.30p.m. and it should be an enjoyable evening, with a raffle and auction taking place later that night. Tickets are €15 and are available from most retailers on Main Street.

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. Also there are Heneghan's Nursery and Athenry Foods. (Advert).
 
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 John (086) 8033126 or (057) 9351124. Website: www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Sue Ryder Foundation
The Sue Ryder Foundation is the largest provider of accommodation for the elderly in the country. They support this activity through their charity shop in Birr. If you have clothes or furniture to donate for the support of their work, contact them on (057) 91 21227 or call to the shop.

Services For Deaf And Hard Of Hearing People
On Wednesday 4th & 18th November, at the Old Health Centre, John's Terrace, Birr, from 10a.m. to 1p.m., there is a free service where you can get advice about hearing aids, equipment for your home to help you hear the doorbell, phone, smoke alarm, television. Also information on Irish Sign Language, Tinnitus and Lip-reading. 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. Appointments can be made for a private consultation for hearing aids in Tullamore; hearing aids are competitively priced at €950 or €1,250 each, or you can phone 1800 677 247. 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

Birr Parent And Toddler group
Birr Parent and Toddler group meet every Tuesday morning 10.30a.m.-12.30p.m. in the Family Resource Centre in Glebe Street. Lots of fun and toys for your toddlers and babies, come and have a coffee while getting to know other parents and guardians. Cost is €3 per family. See you there!

29/10/2009
Camcor Warriors Enjoy Halloween Party

The Birr Junior Special Olympics Club, The Camcor Warriors, recently took time out from training to enjoy their Halloween party.
The club was set up in June by families and volunteers and encourages children aged 6-16 with intellectual disabilities to participate in sports adapted to meet their needs.
The Camcor Warriors train once a week in the wonderful facilities generously provided by St Brendan's Community School, Birr.
Thanks to the generosity of Birr Leisure Centre, the club has just commenced an eight week swimming programme.
As a new club, they are grateful for any support from the local community and wish to thanks Butlers Pharmacy and Dooly's Hotel for their kind donations. 
The club welcomes new athletes and volunteers. Anyone interested in this rewarding experience please contact chairperson Susanne Dwyer or secretary Catherine Fogarty on (085) 2407748.29/10/2009
Birr Photography Group's 'Scary' Halloween Exhibition

Birr Photography Group was established in November 2008 at The Tin Jug Studio, Brendan Street, Birr, by a small group of photographic enthusiasts. The purpose of the group is to promote photographic skills and knowledge in Birr and the surrounding area. 
The members are keen amateur photographers with skills ranging from beginner to advanced. All members are encouraged to expand their knowledge and abilities as photographers by learning from and teaching their fellow enthusiasts. The group has regular meetings, talks, discussions and demonstrations on a variety of topics at The Tin Jug Studio. Professional guest speakers have also been invited to give presentations on their work and to share some of their knowledge. More talks are planned for the Winter and Spring schedules. These are open to the wider public, and when larger crowds are to be accommodated, the venue will change to the Birr Theatre and Arts Centre.
'Halloween: A Scary Photographic Tour' is Birr Photography Groups 3rd public exhibition, following 'Winter' and 'Broken Beauty'. Showing at Emma’s Café, Main Street, Birr from 24th October 2009, the exhibition coincides with 'Hullabaloo', County Offaly’s Children’s Art Festival. There are over thirty photographic images on show. 
The exhibition's objective was for the members to display a wide range of shiver-making themes, whether by location, atmosphere, or turning something familiar into something frightening. A few of these digital camera images have been manipulated through Photoshop and a few are alarming macro-images of multi-legged creatures. To add to the fun, the latter have been thoughtfully covered with black flaps for the non-phobic public to peep under. The exhibition has been created by the following members: Robert Revill; Joe Kearns; Sara Sothern; Julien Kennedy; Philomena Jordan; Rosalind Fanning; Terry Smith; and Jack Feehan. (With special thanks to Aideen Kearns, and Adrian Shine.)
Customers at Emma’s Café are invited to vote for their favourite 'Scary' image and enter the free draw to win that photograph.
For more information on Birr Photography Group or 'Halloween: A Scary Photographic Tour' exhibition, please contact Joe on (087) 657 4820 or www.birrphotogroup.org website. 

29/10/2009
Children's Book Festival Events At Birr Library

There are a number of events at Birr Library this week as part of this year's Children's Book Festival, which is aimed at promoting books, reading and the world of the imagination to children.  
Children can join their local Offaly library for free and there’s no time like Children's Book Festival time to see what your local library has to offer!  
For further details about becoming a member, branch opening hours and library services to young people, visit or contact your local library, call Offaly County Library Headquarters on (057) 9346834 or visit Offaly County Council’s website at www.offaly.ie.  
The following are the events at Birr Library. 
Exhibition on Wednesday, 28th-Saturday 31st October 
An exhibition of project work completed by local primary schools as part of a competition organized by the library. Each school submitted one project on the myths, customs and traditions surrounding the festival of Halloween. This project was open to all 5th & 6th classes in the local primary schools. The exhibition is both colourful and informative.  
Colouring Competition on Thursday, 29th October, 9.30a.m.-5.30p.m. 
The library will have a number of special Halloween colouring sheets for children of all ages to express their artistic ability. There will be a special treat for their colouring efforts. There is only one entry per child. All are welcome. 
Children’s Book Club on Friday, 30th October, 3.00 p.m.-4.00 p.m. 
The Children’s Book Club is a regular event in the library calendar and, this year, will hold their first meeting during the October mid-term break. This is a club for readers or people interested in books. They will be reviewing – Derek Landy’s Skulduggery Pleasant: the faceless ones. This book is available in Birr Library before the event. New members welcome. 
Story-time for the under 6s on Saturday, 31st October, 11.30 a.m.-12.00 p.m. 
This story-time is filled with laughter, songs and stories. Listen to the classics or the world according to Dr. Seuss. There is something for everyone. All are welcome. 

29/10/2009
Big Traditional Names For Birr Concert

One of Ireland's leading entertainers in the traditional field, Kerryman Seamus Begley, will head up the cast for Birr Comhaltas Annual Concert in Birr Theatre and Arts Centre on Sunday 22nd November next. 
Seamus has built up an international reputation as an accordionist and traditional singer and has a number of recordings to his credit, the latest which was issued earlier this year under the title 'Eiri go La'. He will be accompanied on the occasion by Tim Eady, popular guitarist also from the Kingdom.
Many other well known entertainers, as well as up and coming local artists, including some All Ireland winners, will be included in the programme and details of these will be announced in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile booking is now open at the theatre box office phone (057) 9122911 and tickets are also available from branch members.

29/10/2009
Super Second Half Performance Wins Minor Title For Birr

Minor ‘B’ Camogie Championship Final; Birr 3-5 Kilcormac/Killoughey 1-4

In the final game of the season for Offaly camogie board, Birr Minor camogie team were crowned County champions after they had seven points to spare over Kilcormac/Killoughey in the final which took place in Banagher on a showery, blustery Sunday afternoon last.
Throughout the first half, Birr never looked like winners, chasing the game till the break and forcing a draw just before the teams left the pitch, but their total transformation at the interval saw them produce a storming second half performance that completely diminished the Kilcormac/Killoughey challenge.
The winners took control of the second half at an early stage and Kilcormac/Killoughey simply had no answer as the Birr managerial side made positional changes that worked well for them. While both sides had some fine players that stood out, the winners can thank their keeper Shauna Carroll who saved and cleared many attacks over the last half hour. The defence also played heroically while the forwards were in great form scoring all but one point from play.
Over the first half hour, this game looked as if it was going to go right down to the wire and with 1-2 apiece on the board at the break. A gambler would have placed their bets on Kilcormac/Killoughey who looked physically stronger and much more sharper with their scoring and getting a better result from their efforts. Emma Fogarty was causing havoc by winning a lot of possession in midfield while Orla Murray on the wing was crossing vital ball to where it mattered. Their backs were on top of the game while their keeper Katie Murray, while rarely tested, was unable to stop the goal that Orlagh Kirwan set Sarah Pilkington up for just as the referee called for the break. 
It took nine minutes into the game before a score was registered, coming from K/K’s captain Shauna Flynn who sent over a placed ball and five minutes later Birr had a chance to draw level when a high challenge on Julie Stephens saw Orlagh Kirwan’s shot go narrowly wide. However, Kirwan made no mistake one minute later when she latched onto a dropping ball and sent it back and over to level. 
K/K fought back and went one ahead from Sarah Hennessy who took the pass from the hard working Grainne Gonoude. K/K were looking for a goal and had attacks forced wide with great Birr defending, but Debbie Flynn’s great effort getting through and blasting into the corner of the Birr net, gave keeper Shauna Carroll no chance as she dived to block and K/K were on their way….or so it seemed.   
Birr responded quickly at the other end with an Angela Ryan point which seemed to lift her team's spirits and another attack was sent narrowly wide. With time fading Ryan had the ball with Kirwan who offloaded to Sarah Pilkington who in return struck for Birr’s equalizer on the break.
What a transformed Birr side took to the pitch for the last half as they began to win more possession and tried to make better use of the ball. This persistence paid off when a sea of players built up pressure in the K/K goalmouth and as Birr attacked, K/K were under pressure defending but eventually the green flag went up for Birr after Orlagh Kirwan claimed the result. Kirwan was back converting a free when Angela Ryan was fouled and Birr were now in the driving seat. 
K/K fought on but Birr won a ‘45’ which Kirwan dropped in the square where Shelly Jackson cleared and another effort from Birr saw Claire Currams bring out but Orlagh Kirwan was waiting, and gathering she made no mistake to give her side a cushion of five points. 
Shauna Flynn kept K/K in touch when she converted a placed ball but her effort one minute later to draw the sides closer went narrowly wide of target. However, Triona McDonald who came up from the back line left one goal separating the sides with less than six minutes remaining. 
The girls in the red and green upped their attacking strength and Orlagh Kirwan gave them back their insurance lead when she fired over with Julie Stephens, Jane McCarthy and Rebecca Hoctor doing the spade work in the build up. The alarm bells were ringing loud and clear for K/K as they seemed to lose concentration but Birr on the other hand grew in confidence and deep into injury time Orlagh Kirwan crossed to Angela Ryan who took off on a solo run and making her way through the K/K back line she struck low and hard and Birr were crowned deserved County minor 'B' champions. 
Player of the match: Orlagh Kirwan. (Birr). 
Scorers: Birr: Orlagh Kirwan (1-4, 0-1 free), Angela Ryan (1-1), Sarah Pilkington (1-0). 
Kilcormac/Killoughey: Debbie Flynn (1-0), Shauna Flynn (0-2 frees), Triona McDonald, Sarah Hennessy (0-1 each).
BIRR: Shauna Carroll, Jane Ryan, Emily Quinlan, Jessica Spain, Kelly Ann Milne, Gillian Molloy (Captain), Caroline Soupe, Angela Ryan, Jane McCarthy, Orlagh Kirwan, Julie Stephens, Rebecca Hoctor, Nadia Feehan, Sarah Pilkington, Fiona Guinan. Subs used: Dearbhaill Shiels (for N. Feehan), Eimear Teehan (for F. Guinan). 
KILCORMAC/KILLOUGHEY: Katie Murray, Shelly Jackson, Claire Currams, Mary McDonald, Katie Hand, Triona McDonald, Niamh Troy, Emma Fogarty, Debbie Flynn, Orla Murray, Roisin Feighery, Brigid Behan, Grainne Gonoude, Shauna Flynn (Captain), Sarah Hennessy. Subs used: Rebecca Killian (for S. Hennessy), Laura Melia (for B. Behan), Brigid Behan (for M. McDonald, inj.). 
REFEREE: Joe Cahill (Kilruane).    

21/10/2009
€70,000 Cocaine Seized In Birr

Cocaine with an estimated street value of €70,000 was seized in Birr last Thursday afternoon after Gardai stopped and searched a suspicious vehicle.
The major drugs seizure occurred at 3.15p.m. at Railway Road, Birr when a vehicle in the vicinity aroused the suspicion of Gardai on patrol. Gardai subsequently pursued and stopped that vehicle.
After conducting a routine check on the vehicle Gardai discovered large quantities of cocaine with an estimated street value of approximately €70,000. The occupants, two Irish males, were arrested and detained under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
Gardai confirmed that one male was charged and is due to appear before Birr District Court on the 10th of November. Gardai have also submitted a file to the DPP regarding the other individual.
A Garda spokesperson confirmed that both Individuals were Irish nationals but stated that they did not come from the local area. The drugs in question are believed to have been on transit through the Birr area en route to the South of the country.

21/10/2009
Crinkle Handballer Wins World Title

Crinkle Handballer Micheal O'Brien returned from the World Handball Championships in America last week as a newly crowned world champion.
Micheal and his partner, Ciaran Neary from Kilkenny, won the Mens 'C' doubles title at the championships, which were held in Portland, Oregon, to become the first Offaly handballer ever to lift a world handball title.
Remarkably this was the first time that Micheal and Ciaran had played in a competition together. Ciaran was looking for a partner to compete with in the World Championships and asked Micheal if he would be interested and the Crinkle man accepted.
Clearly they gelled together very quickly as they embarked on a great run of victories to capture the world title.
Micheal has been a member of Crinkle Handball Club since his schooldays and has enjoyed success in national and provincial championships over the years but this was the pinnacle of all those successes.
 The event was played at the Multnamah Athletic Club in Portland, which has 16 handball alleys. The club overall has about 20,000 members and about 2,000 of those are handball members. Micheal said the facilities were really impressive and said it was one of the biggest handball venues in the United States.
David Hope from Rhode was also competing in Oregon and he reached the final of the 'B' singles. Micheal said that there were 12 men's finals at the World Championships and two of them featured players from Offaly, which was a great achievement. He became the first Offaly man to win a world title but he said he hoped he wouldn't be the last.
The next World Championships will be held in 2012 and Ireland will host them. Micheal said he hoped to compete again in 2012 but in the meantime hopes he will be able to challenge for more All-Ireland titles and club championships.
There were 45 pairs in all in the Mens 'C' doubles and Michael and Ciaran had to play six rounds to capture the world title. In the early rounds they beat partnerships from America, England and Mexico to qualify for the quarter finals, where they came up against a pair from Roscommon.
This turned out to be their toughest match of the event. 'We were blessed,' recalls Micheal. 'They beat us in the first game 21-10 but we beat them 21-20 in the second game so we had to play the tiebreaker to 11. They were 10-4 up in that but we came back to beat them 11-10, so we were blessed,' he said.
In the semi-final they beat a Meath partnership before coming up against a pairing from Limerick in the final. 'It was neck and neck in the first game,' Micheal recalled. 'They were 20-16 up in that but we came back to 20-20 and snatched it at 21-20.'
That comeback seemed to break the spirit of the Limerick lads and Micheal and Ciaran won the second game easily by 21-3 to be crowned world champions.
This was Micheal's first time to compete at the world championships. He earned the right to participated by getting to the Irish Open Final in 2007. In all there were 980 competitors at the world championships, including juveniles, masters and women, and 250 of those competitors came from Ireland.
Over the years Micheal has picked up a number of noteworthy successes. He won the Junior 'B' All-Ireland in the 60 x 30 court in 2007 and that year proved to be a big one for him as he won the Leinster Junior singles and doubles at 40 x 20, reached the Irish Open Final and two other national finals. He also won the Leinster Junior Club title.
Micheal's three brothers, Conor, Noel and Patrick, are also talented players and all three have also won All-Ireland titles.
His success is a great boost to the Crinkle club and they hope it will help encourage more people to take up the game of handball. At present the club has 10 adults and 28 juveniles regularly playing competitively, while there are many more who play the game for pleasure.
Kevin Cooke, secretary of the Crinkle Club, explained that this gives them great encouragement and they hope to see more young lads playing handball as a result. He explained that Crinkle hosted the Feile na nGael Finals this year and it was the biggest Feile ever with 64 teams taking part. He said through the success of Feile and work in the schools, it has given handball a higher profile and they hope to see more people taking up the game.
Currently the handball alley is offering the classes for ladies handball, mens beginners, children's handball and kick boxing classes for children and they are encouraging as many as possible to join them. 21/10/2009
Man Threatens Staff With Hatchet In Birr Café

A man who threatened staff in a Birr cafe with a hatchet in an attempted robbery last week got away without any money.
A male approximately 6ft tall and of average build wearing a grey hoody with black strips and whose facial features were concealed behind a mask entered Emma's Café, Birr last Tuesday evening brandishing the hatchet. The attempted robbery occurred at approximately 6:25pm just after business had terminated and staff were in the process of cleaning up the premises.
Gardai confirmed that a masked individual entered the premises carrying a plastic bag out of which he produced a small hatchet and proceeded to make threatening motions towards two female members of staff whilst demanding money.
However, the staff were not in a position to accede to his demands as business had concluded and the day's takings had already been lodged off premises by the Café Manager. Garda sources stated that once the individual discovered there was no cash available he left the scene.
Enquiries are still ongoing and gardai are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has any information regarding the attempted robbery to contact Gardai on (057) 91 20016.

21/10/2009
Yvonne O’Toole First Runner-Up In Face Of Fuschia Competition

Yvonne O’Toole from Birr has been awarded first runner-up in the Face of Fuschia 2009 competition at a special invite-only event at Hilton Dublin last week.
 Now in its second year, the Face of Fuschia competition aims to reflect the brand’s ethos of celebrating natural beauty. Yvonne is 22 and is currently studying early childhood care and education. For her prize she won a hamper of Fuschia products and the chance to take part in a professional photo shoot.
The overall winner of the competition was 18 year old, Amy McEvoy from Drogheda, Co. Louth who is currently completing a degree in Human Nutrition at UCD. As part of her prize, Amy received a hamper of Fuschia product, a weekend break at Hilton Dublin, a stunning necklace from Swarovski and an eye catching outfit from French fashion label, Manoukian.
Third place was awarded to Cork finalist, Laura Murphy. Laura is from Douglas in Cork and recently completed a post grad in on-line marketing and advertising. 
The other Face of Fuschia finalists included Megan Farrell and Jayne Fahy from Drogheda, Niamh Andrews from Artane, Co. Dublin, Geraldine McCormack from Mullingar, Co. Westmeath and Karen Kivlehan who is originally from Sligo.
The judging panel charged with the difficult decision of choosing the finalists and overall winner comprised of TV personality, Laura Bermingham, top beauty blogger and journalist, Kirstie McDermott, Andrea Byrne from the Sunday Independent who were joined by Gillian Moore-Brady and Claire Lynch from Fuschia. 
Speaking at the event, Gillian Moore-Brady said, 'This is the second year of the competition and we are delighted that the calibre of applicants has been exceptional once again. We found it incredibly difficult to choose just eight finalists and it proved even more difficult to select our overall winner. I would like to congratulate all of our finalists and hope they have enjoyed the experience.' 

21/10/2009
Birr News Digest

Carrig Killeen/ Riverstown Community Alert Meeting
A Community Alert Meeting will take place in Carrig Hall on Wednesday night 21st October at 8.30p.m., to reform the Community Alert. There has been a spate of break-ins and robberies in this area in the past few months and the local community see the formation of an active community alert as an effective way to combat this. Local gardai from both Borrisokane and Birr stations will be in attendance and a community alert liaison officer will also be available to answer your queries and concerns. If you are concerned about your own security and the security of your neighbours please attend.

Comhaltas Annual General Meeting
The annual general meeting of the Birr Branch of Comhaltas will take place in the County Arms Hotel on this Wednesday 21st October at 8.30p.m. In addition to all existing members, the committee would like to see all the parents of those attending the music class in attendance. They would like to welcome anyone interested in supporting the organisation, or perhaps there are some new people who have come to the area who would like to become involved. All will be very welcome.

Birr Stage Guild One Act Festival
Birr Stage Guild host their 3rd Annual one act festival from Friday 23rd October to Sunday 25th October. Enjoy some of the best drama groups from around Ireland as they bid to reach the All Ireland finals. With three plays per night it is a very enjoyable weekend. Contact Birr Theatre box office at (057) 91 22911. €12 per night/€20 for three nights.

Carrig/Riverstown Foróige Club  
Carrig/Riverstown Foróige club registration night will take place on Monday 2nd November at 8.00p.m. sharp. All young people 12-18 years are invited to attend. Parents/Gaurdians must attend with their child to register and pay the affilliation fee of €15 per person or €25 per family on the night. The Foróige club will meet on Monday evenings from 8.00-9.00p.m. during the school term. There will be a charge of €2 per night. Activities in the club will include sports, drama, music, inter club events and much much more.
 
Birr Neighbourhood Watch
Birr Neighbourhood Watch are holding a Fundraising Raffle on Friday night 23rd October. It will take place with the kind permission of Marian Hall Committee during the interval at the weekly Bingo in the Marian Hall. Tickets will be on sale in the foyer prior to Bingo commencing. All prizes have been donated by the following: 1. Four Rounds of Golf, donated by Birr Golf Club; 2. Lunch for Two, donated by Dooly's Hotel; 3. Voucher, donated by Hanlon's Butcher's; 4. Voucher, donated by Zandra's Boutique; 5. Free Bingo Book & two Cards, donated by Marian Hall Committee; 6. Two Bottles of Wine, donated By BNW Committee Member.
Birr Neighbourhood Watch Committee would like to say a big 'Thank You' to all the above for their support and contributions in this fundraising event.
 
Birr Neighbourhood Watch AGM
Birr Neighbourhood Watch are holding their AGM on this Wednesday October 21st at 8p.m. in Dooly's Hotel. All committee members are asked to attend please.
 
Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
Birr Stage Guild hosts a One Act Drama Festival from Friday 23rd– Sunday 25th October. Enjoy a wide and varied selection of one act plays performed by well known award winning drama groups from around the country as they compete for a place in the All-Ireland One Act Finals. There will be three plays per night professionally adjudicated. This is being held in association with the joint committee of Amateur Drama Council of Ireland and Drama League of Ireland.
The Film Club is showing Lemon Tree (Etz Limon) on Tuesday 27th October. This multifaceted drama straddling the Palestinian-Israeli divide is full of irony, generosity, anger and pure crowd-pleasing optimism. The gradual love story which develops between the two main characters provides a strong emotional underpinning. Winner – Audience Award, Berlin International Film Festival, 2008.
Hullabaloo! the 3rd Annual Offaly’s Children’s Arts Festival takes place from Wednesday 28th–Saturday 31st October. With over 35 workshops in eight venues throughout the town this promises to be a highly entertaining event for all participants, children and parents alike. Sessions include Dance, Art, Crafts, Circus Skills, Films, Storytelling, a number of live Performances, Kids Photography, Writing Scary Stories, Puppet Workshops and a Halloween Party.
Music lovers are in for a treat on Sunday 1st November when Opera UK present A Night At The Opera. Six talented soloists will perform well loved favourites and selections from music theatre and operatta from Lehar, Gilbert & Sullivan, Gershwin and Bernstein. A narrator will guide you through the mystery and mayhem of those complicated opera plots. What more could you want?
Box office opens 1p.m.-5.30p.m. Monday-Friday. (057) 9122911 or check out www.birrtheatre.com for further details.

Birr Leisure Centre
Halloween Intensive Swim Lessons starting Monday 26th October to Friday 30th October from 10.00a.m.-10.45a.m.
Aquafit on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday at 7.00p.m. on Wednesday at 9.30p.m. and Friday at 11.00a.m.
Adult and Children Swim Lessons Tuesday, Thursday 5.00p.m., Saturday 10.00a.m. and 11.00a.m., Sunday 10.30a.m. and 11.15a.m. Adult Swim Lessons Tuesday and Thursday 9.30p.m. Sunday 12.00 noon. Booking is essential.
Pilates, Bums and Tums, Circuit Training, Step Aerobics, Gymnastics, Spin, continuing. Please book at reception on (057) 91 20343.
 
Birr Photography Group
'Halloween: A Scary Photographic Tour' exhibition at Emma’s Café, Main Street, Birr from 24th October. Meeting every Wednesday at 8p.m. in Tin Jug Studio, Brendan Street, Birr (unless otherwise stated). Learn new photographic skills, enjoy chat and share information. New members always welcome. Call Joe on (087) 657 4820 for more information.
 
Ramblers In Eirinn
On Sunday, 1st November, meet 2.00p.m. at Eglish RC Church for tree planting ceremony in memory of deceased former members followed by walk to Old Eglish cemetery where a talk will be given on some of the local families and on interesting headstones. All welcome. Thanks to Noel McMahon for an excellent and enjoyable outing to Glasshouse in September.
Condolences to the Maher family Ballybritt on their recent sad loss.
For your diary please note - A table quiz will be held in Enroute, Fivealley on Friday 27th November.
 
St Brendan's Church Of Ireland
Starting this Sunday, 25th October, the Sunday morning service at St Brendan's Church of Ireland Church in Birr will start each week at 11.30a.m. This Sunday morning will also be the Harvest Thanksgiving service, when the special speaker will be Mr Tony O’Riordan of Midlands Simon, part of the Simon Community that provides ministry to homeless people in Ireland.

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. Also there are Heneghan's Nursery and Athenry Foods. (Advert).
 
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 John (086) 8033126 or (057) 9351124. Website: www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Sue Ryder Foundation
The Sue Ryder Foundation is the largest provider of accommodation for the elderly in the country. They support this activity through their charity shop in Birr. If you have clothes or furniture to donate for the support of their work, contact them on (057) 91 21227 or call to the shop.


Trés Bell Bank Holiday Special
15% off all stocks this Friday and Saturday only at Trés Belle Shoe Boutique, Main Street, Birr. (Advert)

Pilates In Birr
Sign up for pilates again this week. A six week course of level 1 and level 2 classes with Amanda Martin in Dooly's Hotel starts on the 28th October. Improve your flexibility, your strength, strengthen your back and flatten your stomach. Call (087) 7557201 to book your place. See you there!

Birr Parent And Toddler group
Birr Parent and Toddler group meet every Tuesday morning 10.30a.m.-12.30p.m. in the Family Resource Centre in Glebe Street. Lots of fun and toys for your toddlers and babies, come and have a coffee while getting to know other parents and guardians. Cost is €3 per family. See you there!

Camcor Bridge Club
Camcor Bridge Club results for last week: 1st nett Maureen Hayes and Sadie Leonard; Gross Ann Hough and Ena Loughnane, 2nd nett Phyllis Byrne and Joe Kerrigan.

Sk8 Birr
On Friday last Birr Sk8 Committee had a table quiz in Kellys of The Green, It was a great success. Thank you to Gail and John Kelly for hosting the night and donating the winning prize which was very kindly donated back to the Skate Park.
Thanks to Tom Murtagh, John Cahill and Sean Lowry who looked after the collection and marked up the scores. Also thanks to Hanlons Butchers for the spot prize. They raised €565. Thanks to everyone for coming out to support the committee on the night.
On Saturday October 24th Sk8 Birr will be organising an End Of Term Teenage Disco in the ballroom of Dooly's Hotel 9p.m. to 12 midnight. D J. Dill. €10. Strictly no alcohol. Mineral Bar Only.
On 20th November a launch of the SK8 Calendar 2010 will take place in the Coffee Shop of Doolys Hotel. All welcome. Look out for faces and places we all know.
 
Art Class
Two hour art class, oil painting wet on wet, at Bramber Studio on Tuesday October 27th at 8p.m. All materials provided. Contact (0505) 47025 or (087) 2889616.

Alexa Boutique Birr
Alexa Boutique Birr Mexx promotion - 20% off all Autumn Winter stock this Thursday, Friday and Saturday only (Advert).

'Grease' Reunion
Attention all past pupils who were involved in St Brendan's Community School's first production of Grease in 1989. Anyone interested in attending this year's production of Grease on Saturday November 21st, please contact Val on (086) 3584715 or Jackie on (086) 4021537 (after 6p.m.) for booking of seats before Monday November 9th to guarantee seats. Post show get together at County Arms Hotel for music and craic. Partners welcome.

Ladies Clothes Sale
Ladies clothes sale in Racket Hall, Roscrea Bank Holiday weekend, Saturday October 24th, Sunday October 25th, Monday October 26th, 10a.m.to 6p.m. Items from €10. (Advert).

Sunrise Golf Society
Sunrise Golf Society were in Portarlington Golf Club last Saturday on a beautiful day for golf. A good crowd turned out for the second last outing of the year. Congratulations to the following - 1st M. King 43pts, 2nd K. Mitchell 37pts, 3rd C. McDonald 36pts, 4th B. Beale 35pts. Nearest pin - M. Carter and B. Beale. Visitors prize - D. Beale. Many thanks to Paddy Mac for sponsorship on the day.
On Sunday last they played the Swan Bar for the Swanrise Cup. A great crowd of 36 players took part. In the end the cream came to the top and the Sunrise came out easy winner. Thanks to all who took part. Finally they are making a collection to buy a Sat Nav for a certain member of the the society who seems to thinks that Portarlington is in Co. Galway and Portumna is in Co. Laois!

Friends & Children Of Chernobyl
Friends and children of Chernobyl would like to thank every one who supported them on Friday night. A special thank you to Dooly's Hotel and all their sponsors. Annual door to door fundraising collection 2010 now taking place.

Mother & Toddler Group
Would you like a Mother and Toddler group in Crinkle. Interested contact - Marguerite on (086) 3339311.

Dance For Alzheimer Society
Dancing at the County Arms Hotel, Birr on Sunday 25th October. Music by Michael Cleary and Breege Kelly Country band. Dancing between 10p.m.-12.30a.m., tickets €10. Proceeds to the Alzheimer Society. To book call (057) 91 25909

Birr Social Club
Team Snooker tournament in aid of the Birr Voluntary Nursing Unit is continuing at Birr Social Club. Results: Andrew Sullivans beat the Social Club Golden Oldies with Paul Barber leading Barry Kennedy 21 on the brown only for Barry to clear the table for a one point win and 3-2 overall. Kennos beat the Roscrea Mafia 3-2. Fixtures: Tony Macs v Declan Murray, Pilkingtons v B. Guinan, S. Whelahan v Carey Butchers. On Wednesday 28th Gardai v Snowball. Best wishes to Mickey McGarry, you were sadly missed by the Golden Oldies.

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. Also Halloween bracks on offer each side of two lines and full house. 8.30p.m. sharp.
Progressive 25 Drive; Top prize on Sunday night was won on 11 games by Mary Kerins and Mick Hogan, 2nd on 10 games were Mary and Mick Moran. Two pairs on 9 were Carmel Nugent and Michael Stephens, Teresa Bennett and Michael Burke. The last game went to Jimmy Byrne and Jack Ryan while the table prize winners were Johnny Kinahan and Kieran Melaney. Raffle prizes were won by Carmel Nugent, Kieran Guinan and Eugene O'Connor. Cards continue on Sunday night at 9p.m. sharp with a Jackpot of €100 on 14 games.

Highfield Utd Lotto
Numbers drawn in the Highfield United lotto this week were 10, 18, 27, 28. No jackpot winner. No match three. Five names drawn receive €30 each. They were Tom Wynne, c/o T. Grainger, Mark Pardy, c/o S. Pardy, Brendan Stapleton, c/o Palace Bar, Noel Quegan, c/o T. Grainger, Betty Flanagan, c/o A. Flanagan. Next week's jackpot for €9,450 takes place in the Cherry Tree. Thanks to everybody who support every week.

Crinkle Sports
Mens pitching and Boccia (50 plus and age group) starting early November. Contact Marguerite (086) 3339311.

Birr Mart
Bullocks: 6 ch 680kgs €100, 2 ch 730kgs €1,120, 1 lim 730kgs €1,090, 2 ch 460kgs €800, 1 ch 435kgs €750, 1 ch 465kgs €760, 2 aa 712kgs €995, 4 her 529kgs €775. Heifers: 1 ch 445kgs €725, 1 her 670kgs €1,075, 1 sim 640kgs €1,015, 4 ch 509kgs €830, 3 her 602kgs €870, 1 lim 615kgs €910, 3 ch 507kgs €840, 5 lim 455kgs €695, 1 sim 395kgs €620, 1 lim 430kgs €665. Dry Cows: 1 ch 755kgs €890, 1 lim 610kgs €880, 1 sim 810kgs €1,025, 1 bwh 620kgs €800, 1 aa 685kgs €890, 1 aa 545kgs €495. Cattle sale as usual next Monday 26th October (Bank Holiday).

21/10/2009
Youthreach Birr Host Breakfast Morning

Students from Youthreach Birr held a Cheerios Childline Breakfast morning recently to raise money for Childline. Childline is Ireland’s only multi-media listening service for children providing daily round-the-clock support. There are just over one million children in Ireland, and Childline received over 650,000 calls for often critical advice and support in 2008 alone.
The breakfast morning proved to be a huge success and provided the students with an opportunity to display their skills in catering. Students cooked and served a full Irish Breakfast to all who attended. Over 60 people attended the event and the students raised €320 for Childline.  

21/10/2009
Belgium Cemetery Is Named After Birr

The large town of Ledegem is located in western Belgium and is the home of about 9,000 souls. 91 years ago the town was the scene of ferocious and ghastly fighting as the madness of World War One came to the region. On a happy day in October 1918 the town was liberated from the hated 'Boche' by an Irish regiment and the people of Ledegem have never forgotten those liberators.
The Irish regiment was the Leinsters and their training barracks were located for many years in Crinkle, Birr, until after Independence when thankfully all that kind of thing became history.
When the Leinster Regiment liberated Ledegem it had been after some terrible fighting, because the Germans although fighting a war they couldn't win, combatted grimly on.
There is a cemetery not far from Ledegem which is called Birr Crossroads, and here rest the remains of about 850 soldiers killed during World War One.
Birr and Ledegem are now planning to twin with each other and a couple of weeks ago Birr councillors visited Belgium with the aim of furthering this project.
Cllr Michael Loughnane told the October meeting of Birr Town Council that the councillors were treated extremely well by the people of Ledegem. He referred to the fact that some people in Birr are cynical about this proposed twinning, but he pointed out that such cynicism and sarcasm disappears when you visit the place itself and reflect upon the human tragedy which occurred here 91 years ago.
Cllr Loughnane commented that Cllr Tony McLoughlin, Chairman, represented Birr very well in Ledegem. 'Our next step now is to discover if there is EU funding available for the kind of twinning we are proposing.'
Cllr McLoughlin said many thousands of Irishmen were killed during World War One. It's estimated that 51,000 were killed during the war.
In 1918 Ledegem was a small village and had been occupied by the German army since 1914. On the 1st of October 1918 the inhabitants of Ledegem thought their day of liberation had come when the 12 Battalion Royal Scots had briefly entered the village, but their happiness turned to disappointment when the Germans fiercely defended their positions and beat the Royal Scots back to the line of the railway.
The allies' 'last big push' began in the early hours of the 14th of October 1918 and it was the Leinster Regiment that fought its way into and through the village, pushing the German front line backward and setting the people of Ledegem free from occupation.
This success had not been without a cost. There was a heavy lowlying fog on the morning of the 14th of October and this hid from view German machine gun emplacements that were passed by and then were fired upon the support troops as they followed the first wave.
Seventy seven men of the regiment were seriously wounded, some to die from wounds a few days later, and thirteen men died in the initial advance. The second line of the advance was undertaken by the Worcestershire Regiment who knocked out the machine guns. The route of the Leinsters' advance started from a position adjacent to an area known, on British maps of the time, as Raymond Farm and just north of the Heulebeek River.
The people of Ledegem held a special commemoration day on Sunday 12th of October 2008 which remembered the allied soldiers who fought and died to liberate the village. Seán Doorley, former councillor, then Chairman of Birr Town Council, attended the commemoration.
Town twinning has long been an important mechanism for developing active European citizenship and a sense of shared identity. The idea of town twinning in Europe was born as a grassroots initiative in the aftermath of World War II to heal the wounds of that traumatic conflict.
Twinning promotes mutual understanding, and is a conduit for cultural exchanges across the social spectrum. Twinning creates among people a sense of belonging and of a common European identity.
Some critics say it is an excuse for politicians' junkets, but the Birr councillors pointed out during their recent monthly meeting that they paid for their own trip to Ledegem.

21/10/2009
Game Fair To Feature On Country Channel TV

Were you at the Game Fair at Birr in August? Did you notice the television crew from Country Channel TV who were there on both days of the event to make a programme about the Fair. Maybe you were even interviewed or caught on camera at the event.
Now the editing has been done and the first programmes are about to be broadcast on the Country Channel - Sky Channel 171.
Great Game Fairs Director Albert Titterington is delighted with the development for his brand - the Great Game Fairs of Ireland: 'The Irish Game Fair and County Lifestyle Festival at Shanes Castle and the Irish Game Fair at Birr, Co Offaly are recognised as the national Game and Country Fairs of their respective parts of Ireland. Now the Country Channel will showcase these spectacular events to a worldwide audience through digital TV broadcasts and programmes on the Internet. Our goal of international status is now within reach through the worldwide audience that these programmes will attract.
'Not only will the audience see why the Shanes Castle and Birr events are simply unmissable in the game fair calendar with their unique attractions and huge competition prize funds, but international traders will see why the Great Game Fairs offer marketing opportunities too good to be missed with over 30,000 visitors over two days at Shanes and in spite of poor weather a similar audience at Birr.'
Albert added: 'With our growing international reputation, it was always on the cards that a worldwide television producer like Country Channel would want to focus on the Great Game Fairs - at Shanes Castle and at Birr, County Offaly and we were delighted to co-operate with them fully to make these important programmes.
'This is indeed a unique development for the Great Game Fairs brand that no other organisers in Ireland can claim for their show. Some people say that other fairs are just pale copies of what we do, but no other promoter can claim the worldwide audience generated by these programmes - although it is likely with their track record of apparently imitating most of what we do they may try to at some stage. But by then we will have moved on to offer even more to the public.'
 The programme will be shown in two parts in one of the Country Channel’s Country Pursuits half hours. Part One will be broadcast on Wednesday 21st October at 19:30, repeated on Thursday 22nd at 06:00 and 12:30, and again on Sunday 25th October at 12:30.
Part Two will be broadcast on Wednesday 28th October at 19:30, repeated on Thursday 29th at 06:00 and 12:30, and again on Sunday 1st November at 12:30.
They will also have a worldwide audience through Internet access. The programme will also start running online at www.countrychannel.tv this week, and we will make sure it has a prominent position on the front page!
Finally, Albert confirmed that editing of the Birr Castle programme is well under way and that he would shortly be able to release details of that programme as well.
The organizers of the Great Game Fairs of Ireland acknowledge the support of the the Events Unit of DCAL and Shannon Development.

21/10/2009
Birr Stage Guild Host Third One Act Festival

Birr Stage Guild will host their 3rd annual One Act Festival from Friday 23rd October to Sunday 25th October 2009 at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre.
There are high hopes for the nine groups performing as they travel the country on the one act circuit hoping to make it to the All-Ireland Finals.
In previous years we have had groups from all over the country, from Cork to Derry and Galway to Dublin. Most notable of these would probably be Causeway Productions from Kilbarrack in Dublin who performed in Birr last year. Their production of Pressman Taylor’s 'Address Unknown' went on to win the All Ireland.
This year we welcome groups from Cork, Clare, Kildare, Wicklow, Wexford and closest to home Eden Drama Group from Edenderry. 
The adjudicator is the well known ADA member Tom Doherty from Derry. Tom is one of Ireland’s best known adjudicators and drama teachers. He has conducted workshops for drama groups and teachers all over Ireland and is, by some distance, the longest serving tutor at the Gormanston Summer School having been a regular there for the last 23 years. As an adjudicator he has had a run of finals in recent years. He adjudicated the All-Ireland Confined Finals in Claregalway; the Scottish One-Act Finals in Greenock; the Northern Ireland One-Act Finals in Belfast and the All-Ireland One-Act Finals in Carrickmore. Future engagements include the Northern Ireland One-Act Finals and the All-Ireland Final in Athlone in 2010 and the Ulster Finals in 2011.
Groups will compete in the open and confined sections for Best Play, Best Director and Best Actor, with two adjudicator’s special awards.
Birr Stage Guild has five perpetual trophies.
Best Play – Open Section – Dr. John Lucey Perpetual Award.
Best Play – Confined Section – Birr Stage Guild Perpetual Award.
Best Director – Open Section – J. I. Fanning Perpetual Award.
Best Director – Confined Section – Isobel Fanning Perpetual Award.
 And new this year is Best Actor – Open Section – Ann O’Meara Perpetual Award.
Many thanks to the Fanning family, the Lucey family and Anne O’Meara for their continued support.
From light hearted dramas to the more serious, and tragedies to comedies, this weekend will have something for everyone to enjoy.
Booking at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre (057) 9122911. Tickets €12/€10 – and a three night rate of €20.
In association with the joint committee of Amateur Drama Council of Ireland and Drama League of Ireland.

21/10/2009
Grants Scheme For Community And Voluntary Groups Relaunched

Cllr Bernie Fanneran would like to remind people that the government has relaunched a scheme that provides grants to community and voluntary groups that assist the elderly in their own homes. The closing date for the grants that provides for the cost of installing security monitored alarm systems and smoke carbon monoxide alarms is the end of this month.
'I have these application forms left into the Fianna Fail office for representatives to collect. I would like to commend the work of these volunteers, their input really makes a difference to the community,' said Cllr Fanneran.
'I would also like to appeal to the people of Birr and surrounding areas to be aware of their elderly neighbours. With the changing of the clocks this weekend the evenings will be getting darker from now on and the long cold Winter setting in. I would like to ask you to call in on your elderly neighbour or make a phone call now and then to see if they are ok,' she said.

21/10/2009
Call For Two Junction Boxes

Cllr Denis Sheils has asked the Town Engineer to put a junction box on the Tullamore road leading up to McAuley Drive in Birr and also one on Newbridge street leading up to Sandymount.
Cllr Shiels has pointed out these are for safety reason and need to be addressed urgently.
Cllr Sheils has also asked that the footpath on Military road be improved. There is grass and nettles growing on the footpath and this needs to be addressed by way of edging and week killer.
Cllr Shiels has also pointed out that a number of gullies in the town are blocked and this needs immediate attention as we are into the time of year where leaves are falling and they cause the gullies to become blocked.

21/10/2009
Birr's Sterling Display Falls Just Short

First the bad news! Birr firsts were in action on Sunday against Rathdrum losing by the narrowest possible margin, 14-13. This was their third Leinster League fixture of the season after Birr got their season on the road with a win over North Meath the previous weekend.
Unfortunately the win could not be repeated this week but the manner of the performance was infinitely superior against much stronger opposition. Birr’s set plays which have been strong all season were again solid, however it was their loose play and the threat going forward, that was most notable.
Rathdrum could not cope with Birr’s counter-rucking and were beaten in the forward battle for large periods of the game. It was from this platform the Birr drew first blood. Good recycling of the ball and multiple phases ultimately forced Rathdrum into conceding a penalty about 10 minutes in just outside their 22. The kick was expertly dispatched by number 10 Garech Doorley.
Rathdrum tried to respond by moving their ball trough their backs. However Birr’s defensive line was much more organised than in pervious matches this season and little real progress was made. Great tackling from the back line especially from Ray Walsh, Garech Doorley, Joe O’Loughlin and Eoin Reddan kept Rathdrum at bay. Unfortunately however a couple of missed tackles, in an otherwise great defensive display, made the hole that Rathdrum needed and they crossed the line to touch down. The resulting conversion was duly taken to leave the game at 7-3.
Shortly after Birr were given a good chance to reduce the gap with an award of a second penalty a long way out and slightly left of the posts. The kick was taken by full back Eoin Reddan but went narrowly wide. Birr did however draw next blood; a breaking ball was well chased up the pitch by Mick Keogh, ultimately leading to Birr establishing themselves well into the Rathdrum 22. The ball was spun through the hands to winger Shane Broderick who showed fantastic strength to stay in play and get over the line. The kick, from a very difficult angle could not be made but the score returned Birr into the lead at 7-8.
It looked like the half would finish this way but unfortunately Rathdrum managed to smash over the line with the last play of the half. The conversion was well taken to leave the half blown up at 14-8.
To their credit Birr did not allow the late score affect their morale and started the second half by far the stronger. Fresh legs were introduced in Evan Williams and Jeffy Pardy with Brendan Molloy and Denis Shine coming off for a double change in the front row. Birr's dominance started to tell with their runs penetrating deeper into Rathdrum territory with both substitutes strong with the ball in hand.
With about 20 minutes remaining Stephen Niland came on at wing forward, moving Andrew Lally to number 8 in place of Ronan Joyce. This further reshuffling in the pack in no way interrupted Birr’s rhythm and dominance. For the last 10 minutes Birr were encamped on the Rathdrum line and managed to crash over the line after some great forward forays by Chrity Hogan, Cronan Kennedy and Evan Williams. Fittingly however it was scrum half Simon Rudd who got the ball down. His play and distribution was excellent all day and it was just reward for his sterling display.
A very difficult kick could not be converted and there was only time for the game to restart and the ball to go straight to touch before the final whistle was blown to leave Birr dejected. Although the manner of the defeat was cruel especially considering Birr’s dominance there are many positives to take from the game. This was the best performance of the season against a team currently topping the table. Also the scores were excellently worked team moves and on a different day Birr could have and would have won this fixture.
Birr firsts next play on Sunday 1st of November at home. All support is greatly appreciated.
Birr Team: Christy Hogan, Brendan Molloy, Denis Shine, Cronan Kennedy, Michael Keogh; Diarmuid O’Shea, Andrew Lally, Ronan Joyce, Simon Rudd, Garech Doorley, Emmet Scully, Joe O’Loughlin, Ray Walsh, Eoin Reddan, Shane Broderick. Replacements: Evan Williams, Stephen Niland, Jordan Culbert, Jeff Pardy, Declan Loughnane and Tommy Lyndon.