There was action, fun and entertainment in all corners of Connemara this summer on foot, on horseback and on the water. Ciara Connolly from Roscahill went well over the jumps at the Ballyconneely Show, while James Kiernan and his beautiful Sheltie got a ribbon at the Roundstone All Ireland Dog Show. Local racehorse Ronaldo beat off stiff
competition to romp home at the Omey Races and a huge crowd took to the water for the first annual RNLI Raft Race in Clifden. Last but not least, Andrey Casey and Dermot Hughes were just two of the hundreds of kids from all over Connemara that took part in sports summer camps this year. Photos by Tom Broderick Photos and Catherine Pryce
REGIONAL N59 Realignment Opened The traffic lights that were a feature of the N59 on the approach to Clifden from Derrylea have now been removed after many months of construction and delays and the new stretch of road was officially opened by Minister for Social
Clifden. Minister Ó Cuív, Mr. Gilmore and Cllr. Seamus Walsh then also took to bicycles for a photo opportunity, despite the downpour. (Photo left bottom). Photo left top: At the opening of the new stretch of road at Derrylea on July 19th were (l-r): Cllr. Eileen Mannion, Mary Corbett-Joyce, Galway County Council Director of Services Frank Gilmore, CEO of the National Roads Authority Fred Barry, Minister Éamon Ó Cuív T.D. and Mayor of Co. Galway Jimmy McClearn.
N59 Project Presentation
protection Éamon Ó Cuív TD on the wet morning of Monday July 19th. The 3.8km stretch of single carriageway is now complete and a stone marking the development was unveiled at a car park next to Derrylea Lake by Minister Ó Cuiv, Fred Barry, CEO of the National Roads Authority and Galway County Council’s Director of Services Frank Gilmore and Mayor of County Galway Jimmy McClearn.
The Galway National Roads Design Team made a presentation to the Connemara Electoral Area County Councillors recently on the proposed N59 Clifden to Oughterard Road Project. Now that the major interurban route projects are coming to an end, the NRA are shifting their emphasis to the National Secondary Routes. The Clifden to Oughterard project is part of a pilot programme for low volume national secondary routes. The proposed road development will provide a minimum paved road width of 7.0m with verges on both sides. It will provide a high quality road surface and will improve the road alignment and improve junctions along the route. The road development will also include pedestrian and cycle facilities. Welcoming the project, Cllr. Eileen Mannion said “The proposed road development on the N59 Clifden to Oughterard Road is long overdue and it will improve driving time and safety for road users. The drive from Clifden to Oughterard is one of the most scenic drives in the country and I have requested that viewing areas for tourists to pull in to view the scenery and take photographs be included in the road design”.
August. The walks which are lead by experienced and local marine biologists as well as ecologists, will look at various aspects of marine ecology. They will take in all different areas of marine life, exploring everything, such as seaweeds and shellfish to the rock pools teeming with life. All the walks are interactive and an excellent way to learn about the various habitats which can be found on our beaches from sand dunes to the shoreline. All walks are free and suitable for families; remember to wear suitable footwear and dress for the weather. All children must be accompanied by a parent/ guardian. This programme has being developed and funded by the Environment Sector, Galway County Council. Upcoming Connemara beach walks include: Dumhach, Inishbofin. Thursday August 12th, 12:30pm led by Dr. Dave McGrath. Dog’s Bay, Roundstone. Saturday August 14th, 1:30pm led by Dr. Noirin Burke. Trá an Dóilín, An Cheathru Rua, Sunday August 15th, 2:30pm led by Marine Biologist J.P. Tiernan. East End, Inishbofin.Friday August 27th, 12:30pm led by Dr. Dave McGrath. For more information on the time and dates of future walks log onto www.galway.ie or contact Sheila Murphy on 091-509-174 or smurphy@galwaycoco.ie.
Funds Raised for Intensive Care The Bag Packing Day in SuperValu, Clifden which was held over the June Bank Holiday weekend will make a difference in the lives of patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of University Hospital Galway and Beaumont’s Richmond I.C.U. Some €1,820 was raised and divided equally between the two units. A representative of G.I.C.U. Patient Comfort Fund said they were thrilled with their €910, as it will go towards the purchase of equipment to help patients out of bed
Road Closure Disruption
Representatives of the main contractors Wills Brothers were also in attendance at the official opening in addition to local elected representatives and members of the public. Local hoteliers Paul and Brian Hughes arrived at the opening on bicycles via the new cycle lane which begins at the Connemara Heritage and History Centre before crossing the road and then taking cyclists along the lake towards
Many motorists were forced to take long detours on the main N59 on Wednesday July 21st when the Galway Co. Council closed the road for emergency resurfacing repairs at short notice. Community Warden Thomas O’Sullivan indicated to the Connemara View on Thursday July 22nd that the road workers had been informed of the need to carry out the emergency repairs late on the evening of Tuesday July 20th and had contacted Galway Bay FM, MidWest radio, Connemara Community Radio, Raidio na Gaeltachta and AA Roadwatch immediately in an effort to get the notice into the public domain.
Connemara Guided Beach Walks To celebrate the wonderful beaches available in County Galway, a series of walks have been organised to explore and discover 11 of these magnificent beaches. This programme of events will take place throughout the month of
and walk for the first time during their stay in I.C.U. The funds sent to the Richmond I.C.U. Beaumont Dublin will be used for the services provided in the family rooms for the families of patients such as overnight accommodation. Photo: Úna Walsh and Catherine Walsh of Clifden, presenting a cheque to Catherine Lee, Clinical Nurse Manager 3, ICU, University Hospital Galway; Marie Dempsey, Business Manager, Critical Care; Caitriona Grealy, Clinical Nurse Manager 2; Margaret Brady, Assistant Director of Nursing, Critical Care; and Leonie Cullen, Staff Nurse 2, ICU, University Hospital Galway. Photo courtesy of Catherine Walsh
Youth in Action Calendar 2011 FORUM Connemara will shortly begin to compile the Youth in Action Calendar for 2011. They are looking for photos of sports, social events, gatherings, old school photos, historical events and old scenic photos from the North West Connemara Area. Please forward photos to Kathleen de Courcey at FORUM, Letterfrack, by August 30th. Please attach information on the back of the picture and your return address. Funds raised from the sale of the calendar support a variety of activities for young people throughout North West Connemara every year.
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August 2010
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August 2010
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RNLI Call Outs The Clifden Lifeboat was called out to investigate flare sightings in the Roundstone and Ballyconneely areas on the nights of Saturday July 24th and Saturday July 31st. Extensive searches of the area were carried out by the crews at the time of the call outs but fortunately no emergency situations were identified. Clifden Lifeboat Operations Manager John Brittain commended the crew members who were willing and able to attend a call out after taking part in the Raft Race fundraiser on Saturday July 31st and stated that members of the public should never hold back from reporting flare sightings and reporting of suspicious or unusual sightings at sea.
Warmer Homes Scheme The Warmer Homes Scheme administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), funds energy efficiency improvements in the homes of the elderly and vulnerable. The assistance includes the installation of: attic insulation, cavity wall insulation, draught proofing, hot water cylinder jacket and the provision of low energy light bulbs. Cllr. Eileen Mannion is advising people who are eligible for the scheme to apply before the closing date which is the 27th August. The scheme is available to homes which meet the following criteria: are privately owned, constructed before 2002 and an occupant of the house is in receipt of the Fuel Allowance as part of the National Fuel Scheme. If you meet the criteria, call 1800-250-204 to register for the scheme before the 27th August. Applicants will be processed on a first come first served basis.
Clifden Pony Show Queen August 13th The Clifden Connemara Pony Show Queen 2010 will be selected on the night of Friday August 13th at the Station House Hotel in Clifden at 8pm. Damian Manning will MC on the night and each girl will be interviewed and provide an individual piece of entertainment or demonstrate a talent. Three visiting judges will select the winner who will receive the Clifden Show Queen Tiara and Sash as well as a bouquet of flowers and a fantastic €200 cash prize. The Queen will then be present at the Clifden Pony Show on Thursday August 19th where she will present prizes at the famous annual event. An entrance fee will be charged on the night with proceeds raised going to the Clifden Playground group. Admittance will be €5 for adults, €10 for families and €2 for children. After the 2010 Connemara Pony Show Queen has been selected there will be a disco by DJ Mike O’Malley so a great night out is guaranteed for all. Photo: The participants in the Connemara Pony Show Queen 2010 are: Back (l-r): Fiona Foley (Matt O’Sullivan Auctioneers/ Connemara Florist), Triona King (Clifden Pharmacy), Hannah O’Sullivan (Love Vintage), Bronagh Flynn (Walsh’s Bakery and Coffee Shop), MC Damian Manning, Carrie-Ann DeLappe (Station House Hotel), Aimee Coyne (Connemara National Park), Tara Connolly (Noel Connolly Plant Hire), Laurane Galand (EJ King’s).
Front (l-r): Aine Hanigan-Dunkley (Paddy Coyne’s Pub), Chelsea Kane (Dr McLoughlin), Olivia Corbett-Joyce (Hehir’s Woollen Store), Christine O’Donovan (Connemara Pony Company), Sarah DeLappe (Sweeney’s Claddaghduff ), Shibéal O’Flatherty (Moran’s Pharmacy), Elaine Mc Cormack (Carna Nursing Home). Absent from photo: Edel Dowd (Tigh Mheaic).
Connemara Chamber News Pontoon Plans are continuing on the extension of the Clifden pontoon development at Clifden bay. In conjunction with Clifden Boat Club the plan is to extend the current landing platform approximately 75 metres out into the bay and to accommodate the short term berthing of crafts, creating a mini marina. Given the lead time of this development it is hoped to have the new structure (pending funding) in place for the new boating season next year, in time for the WIORA regatta which is making a welcome return to the Clifden boat club in 2011.
Marketing Drive The Chamber is supporting the marketing drive of Fáilte Ireland in the promotion of Connemara as a holiday destination. Fáilte Ireland run the national campaigns for the regions by matching the local contributions of the industry. The chamber have committed €5,000 to this campaign and we will be contacting our members and supporters to raise a fund to match this and also to plan for Christmas for the region and how to maximise the business in this critical period for the area.
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August 2010
Taoiseach Approach As he is a frequent visitor to this area, the Chamber are seeking a meeting with the Taoiseach to advance the major capital projects for Connemara. Projects like the N59, water and sewage works, the outer Galway ring road and the school building programme are critical infrastructural spends which need to happen in Connemara to soften the effects of the current recession. We need to press the case that these projects are critical and are not postponed or dropped altogether in the current capital spending review.
New Member Drive The Chamber with the invaluable assistance of Delia Whelan are embarking on a new membership drive. The chamber is the business organisation best placed to advance the business agenda for the area and new members are encouraged to join us in this effort and get involved for the benefit of the entire area. For more details please contact the chamber on 087-052-0295 to see how you can get involved. Declan Mannion
Running for Funds Once again on the June Bank Holiday Weekend, a group of Connemara women travelled to Dublin to take part in the annual Flora Women’s Mini Marathon in aid of their chosen charities. The main charities to benefit were Cancer Care West and RNLI Lifeboats and the group of ladies received great support as ever, for which they are extremely grateful. Photo courtesy of Ann Marie Bennett
Connemara View Newspaper
An Cheathru Rua
Childcare and After-School Grant Pat Carey, T.D., Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs, has approved a €500,000 grant for the development of a childcare and after-school services Centre in An Cheathrú Rua. This is a joint venture between his Department, Údarás na Gaeltachta and Coiste Comhfhiontar na Ceathrún Rua. Funds have been approved for Údarás na Gaeltachta on the basis that property within the Industrial Estate under Údarás ownership shall be leased to Cúram Leanaí na Ceathrún Rua Teo. The Board of the Údarás met on the 23rd July 2010. The property will be refurbished as a facility for a nursery, a playschool and an afterschool care centre. Emphasis was placed in the Comprehensive Linguistic Study of the Use of Irish in the Gaeltacht 2007 on the support which must be given to generations of young Gaeltacht parents to enable them to raise their children through Irish. Family support services including childcare services, pre-school services, language advice services for families, after-school services, Irish-speaking parent and child groups etc... are central to the recommendations made in this report. This is an excellent opportunity to integrate the services in question and to develop a good foundation for a Family Support Centre in the area. In announcing the grant, the Minister said that he was pleased to award this grant at this time in order to develop this important facility. “This is a wonderful development which will be central to the promotion of the Irish language in the coming years. It is important, as far as possible, that family support services of this kind are made available in one location and all parties should be praised for their devotion to the language,” he concluded.
Ballyconneely
Celebrating Granuaile On Friday August 6th, Ballyconneely will celebrate the life and legacy of the Pirate Queen Grainne O’Malley or ‘Granuaile’ with an exciting free event to educate and entertain both children and parents alike. At 6pm there will be a talk by Granuaile biographer and well known novelist and screenwriter Anne Chambers at Ballyconneely Hall followed by a play on the life and story of Granuaile by locals and visitors to the area at 7pm. While admission to the events is free of charge, there will be a bucket collection for the RNLI taking place throughout the day, and all donations will be gratefully accepted. From 7.30-9pm there will be a great fun disco and kids are encouraged to come dressed in their best pirate outfits as there will be prizes for the best dressed participants, so come and join the fun as pirates take over Ballyconneely!
Fundraising for Haiti Sinead and Fiona Duane, daughters of Dermot Duane of Aillebrack are currently raising funds to travel to Haiti to take part in a ‘Build It Week’ as part of the earthquake relief effort with Irish charity Haven. The girls will be travelling with 150 other volunteers and will be working in conditions of up to 40ºC to build communities in an area about 300 miles away from Port au Prince. To take part each volunteer is required to raise €4,500 which will pay for building materials, food, water and security.
They held a charity Table Quiz and raffle in the Connemara Golf Club on Monday the 2nd of July to help raise funds and are planning a four ball team Charity Golf Tournament at Bundoran Golf Club on August 20th, after which refreshments and evening entertainment will be provided. Anyone interested in taking part is asked to contact Fiona on 087-900-0659 or 0044785-866-2884. To support the fundraising go to www.mycharity.ie/event/sinead_fiona_ duanes_event.
Pigfest August 8th The annual Pig Fest fundraiser and family day out will take place in Ballyconneely village on Sunday August 8th from 1pm onwards. The now annual event is a hugely popular fixture on the calendar with activities for kids and adults including soccer matches, penalty shoot-outs, weight throwing and welly throwing, two bouncy castles and the ever popular Tug of War contests. Of course there will also be the delicious pig on a spit barbecue which gives the event its name and lots of fun guaranteed for all the family. Funds raised will go towards the Ballyconneely Playground and Sports Field. For more information contact Sean Nee on 087-664-2853.
Playschool and Afterschool The Ballyconneely Playschool and After School service will re-open on Monday August 30th for enrolling of children. It will be offering a free childcare place for playschool children and subvention/reduced rates for parents in receipt of social welfare payments. For more information contact Helen on 095-23601 or Caroline on 095-43074.
Clifden
Fire Brigade Car Wash The annual Clifden Fire Brigade Car Wash will take place at Clifden Fire Station on Saturday August 7th from 12-4pm. This year the proceeds will be going to Ability West (Croist Linn) in Clifden, so come along and get your car spruced while also donating to a great local cause.
Medical Changes in Clifden Two GP surgeries in Clifden have recently merged to become Clifden Medical Practice, a group practice of four general practitioners; Dr. John Casey Snr, Dr. Lynda Keaveney, Dr. John Casey Jnr and Dr. Niamh O’Brien. Postal notification of these developments was sent in advance to the patients of both practices. This newly merged and expanded practice is currently temporarily located on the Westport Road (at Dr Casey’s existing premises) providing a full range of GP services, including women’s health, cervical screening, well-man clinics, paediatric checks and immunisations, travel medicine, minor surgery and prevention screening. In the coming two years, it is planned that Clifden Medical Practice will re-locate to a new purpose-built primary care centre. Provisional plans are afoot for this state-ofthe-art centre to be developed close to the grounds of Clifden Hospital. It is envisaged that this exciting new development will further improve primary care services in Clifden, enhance specific areas of expertise, and lead to a more efficient in-house referral system between doctors and allied health professionals. The four local GP’s concerned wish to emphasise that the merging of their two practices and plans for the future primary care centre will not adversely affect their patients’ care in any way. Patients will continue to have their choice of doctor and out-of-hours
Connemara View Newspaper
arrangements will remain as previously. For appointments, surgery hours and queries, please contact Clifden Medical Practice on 095-22272 or 095-21224/5. www.clifdenmedicalpractice.ie.
Clifden Hurling Camp A summer hurling camp for kids will take place at the Clifden GAA pitch from Monday August 9th to Friday August 13th from 10am to 2pm daily. Coaches from the county will be on hand and hurleys, helmets and equipment for younger kids will also be provided. The cost is €10 per child for the full week of camp. For more information or to book contact Ann Mitchell on 086-172-8954.
Carna
Crossroads Campaign Continues Fóram Iorras Aithneach-the Carna Community Forum- were told at a meeting in July that efforts would be made to put temporary safety measures in place at the junction where the road goes to Carna and Cashel at Recess. A deputation from the Community Forum in Carna and Colm Redmond from the Zetland House Hotel in Cashel met Noel Grealish and an engineer from the National Roads Design Office. The dangers when cars are turning right on the way from Clifden at the Recess junction were explained at the scene. There have been a number of accidents and many near misses at this junction. There was a commitment given that a safety assessment would be carried out without delay and that a long term plan for the junction would be included in the scheme of work for the N59.
Sewerage Schemes Fóram Iorras Aithneach has again asked the Department of the Environment for an explanation as to why the plans for sewerage schemes for Cill Chiaráin and Carna were dropped from the latest 3 year works programme. These schemes were put in the Government plans in 2002 and were promised several times since then by Galway County Council. When Galway County Council were asked why the plans were taken off the works programme they replied that it was a decision by the Department of the Environment. The Carna Community Forum wrote to the Department of the Environment on the 3rd of June this year asking for an explanation, and asking for the sewerage plans for Cill Chiaráin and Carna be put back on the agenda. There has been no explanation from the Department since then and they have now been written to again.
Road Repairs Councillor Seosamh Ó Cuaig has said he now has an undertaking from Galway County Council that repair work will be carried out soon on the section from Cashel to Recess on the R340 regional road. This has fallen into bad disrepair and the Carna Community Forum had written to all County Councillors pointing out that over 80 bad spots could be identified on the two and a half mile stretch. Five of Connemara’s County Councillors had responded at the time of writing on July 28th: Councillors Ó Cuaig, Welby, Kyne, Mannion and Ó Tuairisg. A sum of €100,000 had been taken from funds for this road for 2010 to spend on other roads. A sum of €100,000 remains and will be spent soon. Cllr. Mannion said she personally examined the road and she also said that money would be spent there soon. Áine Máire Ní Flatharta
August 2010
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Cleggan NS Book
Cleggan/Claddaghduff Sea Queen
Cashel
Local GAA Sponsorship A presentation of training gear to Carna Caiseal CLG by Colm Redmond took place at the Zetland Hotel on Saturday July 31st. Colm is pictured here with members of the intermediate and junior panels wearing their new jerseys. Photo below: Carna Caiseal Vice Captain Marc Mac Fhlannacha, Colm Redmond of the Zetland Hotel and Club Captain Michael Ó Cathasaigh. Photos courtesy of Conor Coyne (Carna/Caiseal CLG P.R.O)
The crowning of the first Festival of the Sea Queen took place on Saturday July 24th in The Pier Bar in Cleggan. Gráinne O’Toole, Michelle Acton, Katelynn Mullen, Sarah Cosgrove and Edel Flaherty all took part in the event answering questions asked by MC on the night James Morrissey. The Queen on the night was Grainne O’Toole, who was presented with her crown, handmade sash, €200 and a beautiful necklace from O’Dalaigh Jewellers in Clifden by Judge Fiona Monaghan. Gráinne also got the whole bar singing along to her rendition of Mary Blacks ‘Katie’. Runner-up on the night was Michelle Acton who received €50. Photo above: The Cleggan Claddaghduff Festival of the Sea Queen 2010, Gráinne O’Toole.
In November 2011, the Cleggan National School will celebrate 150 years in existence. To mark this special occasion, a book is to be produced about the history of the school and anyone who attended or is connected with the school in any way is being asked to contribute. The following items are being sought for inclusion in the book: School memorabilia, photographs, newspaper clippings, stories and poems, memories of local events, local folklore, famous visitors, or any other information of interest. All materials received will be copied and the originals returned safely. The school principal will be happy to receive any items at the school from September 1st until September 24th 2010. For any further queries please contact Mary T. Aspell at 095-44808.
Leenane
Leenane Food Festival Plans are well underway for the Annual Leenane Food Festival on September 25th and 26th in Leenane Village. Stalls selling all kinds of food, drinks, vegetables and more will be on site and there will be cooking demonstrations by Derry Clarke and local chefs, entertainment, workshops and much more. Anyone wishing to take a market stall can download an application form at www.leenanevillage.com or contact Leenane Development at 095-42017 and places are strictly limited.
Gunnera Gone from Leenane As can be seen from the accompanying photographs, the Gunnera Eradication Project that has been undertaken by the Leenane Development Association in recent years has been very effective in removing and controlling the spread of the invasive species. The infestation of Gunnera has been a major issue in Leenane village in recent years. The project to eradicate and control the weed was instigated by Chairman of the Leenane Development Association Michael O’ Toole, who sadly passed away on September 5th 2009. Michael is pictured here at the N59 outside Leenane in September 2007 before the spraying process began. An aqueous solution of 3% ‘Mortone’ (Hygeia Chemicals Ltd), which is used to control broadleaved weeds in grassland, was used to spray the affected areas. The second photo shows the same area of roadside, now clear of Gunnera, as photographed by John Holmes of Leenane on July 7th last. Dead Gunnera can be seen in some locations in the area and there are some signs of re-emergent plants so periodic ongoing maintenance will be required to achieve complete eradication of the nuisance weed. Photos and report courtesy of John Holmes.
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August 2010
Connemara View Newspaper
Leenane
able at Connemara West (Portacabin 4) on Tuesday 10th and Tuesday 24th of August from 1:30-4:30pm. If you have any questions about Social Welfare, pensions, housing, consumer affairs, employment, education or any of your rights or entitlements call us on 087-130-1100 or just drop in. A wide range of application forms and booklets are also available. For more information call 095-22000 or 087-130-1100. Email:clifden@citinfo.ie or go to www.citizensinformation.ie.
Farewell to Íde Tynan Íde Tynan (see photo), principal of Leenane National School will be taking up a new post in a school for children with special needs in Dublin in September. A function was held in her honour at the Leenane Hotel on the 27th of June. In his speech Fr Kieran Burke P.P. stated that the community all wish her the very best even though she will be greatly missed, especially by the children of Leenane NS school and their parents. Fr Burke paid tribute to Íde for her great work above and beyond the call of duty as principal and teacher over the past five years in Leenane. Fr Burke said that Íde was held in great affection by parents and children alike and said that no matter what the occasion was she was always pleasant and helpful. The Leenane community wishes her every blessing as she begins a new chapter in her life in our capital city. On behalf of the parents of the children at Leenane National School a presentation of jewellery was made to Íde. Also on the night stand-in teacher Rachel Conneely was presented with pottery for her kindness to the junior school children after her too short stay.
Letterfrack
Birthday Greetings On Friday 9th July at a lunch at Ellis Hall Canteen in
Connemara View Newspaper
Maam
Heritage Day
Letterfrack, along with members of the Ballinakill Active Age Club, Nonie McDonnell of Tullymore, Renvyle celebrated her 90th birthday. To mark this great occasion a special lunch was served followed by music and song and storytelling. Nonie is a member of the club since 1992 and she received many good wishes from her many friends. Photo: Marie Conneely, Letterfrack, Nonie Nc Donnell, Tullymore, Renvyle and Nancy Taylor, Cashleen, Renvyle. Photos courtesy of Martina Gavin.
Ballinakill Active Age Club The members of Ballinakill Active Age Club are very grateful to Lisa Kane, Lettergesh for running The Flora Ladies Mini Marathon on 7th June and generously donating the proceeds of €391 towards the running costs of the club. The club wished Lisa every success in her future endeavours. Ballinakill Active Age Club meets every Friday for lunch and a wide variety of activities. At present the club is taking part in the Age Action Ireland Innocent Big Knit 2010. The group is also planning a trip to Leenane to sample the new Seaweed baths at Leenane Hotel in August. Members also hope to travel to Arigna and Lough Key in the future. The club is always happy to have new members and can be contacted at 095-41064.
Citizens Information Service The Letterfrack Citizen’s Information service will be avail-
August 2010
Maam Women’s Group are busy planning the programme for Heritage Day which will take place on Saturday 28th August at 11am in Maam Community Centre. Workshops on the day include baking, butter making, crochet and knitting, patchwork, carding and spinning. There will be displays of household and farming items from long ago. The Women’s Group are hosting an Art Exhibition and a raffle will also take place. There will be music, dancing and singing. The entrance fee of €5 includes refreshments so come along to Maam and enjoy a great day out! Everyone is welcome.
Tourist Office in Maam A chance conversation between a local FÁS supervisor Mary Teresa Nee and Martina O’Malley, a member of Coiste Forbartha an Mháma, led to the proposal of FÁS opening a Tourist Office in Maam. Mary Teresa and FÁS put the ‘wheels in motion’ and the Mám Tourist Office was opened for business on the 21st of June with the aim of promoting the local area/facilities. It is staffed on a rota basis by Stephen McDonough, Mags Weiss, Nuala Murphy and Mairéad Ni Dhonnacha. The office is open from Monday to Friday 10am-5pm. 091-571-192, cfmhama@gmail.com
Golden Mile This year the Bunnavockawn Road is being entered in the Golden Mile of Galway Competition. Every year awards are presented for Best Natural Heritage, Best Built Heritage, Mile showing the best potential, Community Effort, Road Safety and the Overall Golden Mile of Galway Award. Judging will take place later this year. R. Hanley
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Oughterard
Playground Officially Opened! The new playground for the children of Oughterard was opened on Saturday July 10th by Peter McDonagh and Katelyn Merrigan who were given the honour of cutting the
classes, Art classes, Drama and Writers Group and the Yarn Club which will resume on the first Monday in September. The parent and toddler group will also recommence on the first Wednesday in September. We are also hoping to begin Sean Nós dancing classes and guitar lessons for Adults during the month of September. The Rainbows Programme will also resume in October for bereaved children. All schools will be contacted and packs will be distributed to all families. A full programme of activities will be available from Clann at the end of August. For more information on any of the above please contact Clann on 091-557-633. Culture Night will take place on September 24th and this year it will feature a fashion show. We are looking for models of all ages to take part. Please contact Maria on 091-557-633.
Young People
tape. The County Galway Mayor Jimmy McClearn, several County Councillors, members of the clergy, parents and the past and present Playground Committee members also braved the inclement weather for the ceremony. Photo above courtesy of Tom Broderick Carmel Geoghegan and Patricia Prunty (photo left) were pictured at the official opening of the Oughterard Playground. Both ladies are the founder members of the Oughterard Playground Committee. On St. Patrick’s Day in 2006 they organised RTE’s Den TV crew to film live at the Oughterard Parade and thus began the fundraising which resulted in the Playground being developed. Photo courtesy of Kevin Prunty
Clann News Activities and Classes Clann will resume a new programme of activities in September. Computer classes for adults, beginners and intermediate, will begin the first week in September. Four classes will run per week for 8 weeks from 10am-12am Wednesday and Thursday mornings and 7pm-9pm Wednesday and Thursday evenings. A small fee will be applicable. For more information please contact Patricia on 086-401-5695. Other classes include French lessons, basic photography
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A new exciting girls group will beginning in Autumn. The group is looking for first and second years to participate and will be a space for girls to meet up and chat and undertake activities. A trip away will also be planned at the end of the programme. This will be a great opportunity to make new friends as well as have fun. A new hip hop dance group for young people will be commencing also in Autumn. All ages welcome. Contact Maria for more information on 091-557-633. Volunteers wanted for the Nearly New Shop and the Youth Café. Child Protection Training is offered as well as valuable experience for those who wish to work in the youth sector!
EU Year against Poverty and Social Exclusion As part of the EU Year against Poverty and Social Exclusion Clann Resource Centre and uachtarARTS aim to produce a ‘book of inspiration’. We need your contributions of your own experiences and thoughts of poverty and social exclusion. We need drawings, photographs, paintings, sketches and symbols that remind you of social exclusion or poverty and also hopeful images that can inspire hope in desperate times. We also want memories, poems, short stories, one liners, useful tips, recipes, and remedies.
DVD
suit learners. For more information contact Clann Resource Centre, Oughterard on 091-557-633.
Rosmuc
FETAC Fishing Skills for Youths On Friday July 23rd, 14 second level students from South Connemara were presented with FETAC-accredited certificates following the successful completion of their FETAC Level 3 Modules in Navigation and Net Mending. The course has been running locally in both Rosmuc and Inis Mór for over fifty years. It is aimed at teenagers from 14 to 15 and gives them a solid grounding in the many skills and techniques required to become involved in commercial fishing. The course is run by County Galway VEC at Rosmuc in conjunction with Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), the Irish Sea Fisheries Board and Údarás na Gaeltachta. It covers a range of subjects over the four weeks from navigation, net mending, boat construction, marine engineering and radio communications. The indigenous seafood sector in Ireland currently contributes more than €700 million per annum to our economy and employs more than 1,300 people in the Galway area alone. Congratulating the students on their achievement, Bob Walsh, Training Instructor with BIM said, ‘The fishing industry is a vital contributor to many of our coastal communities and it is wonderful to see these young men and women taking an active interest over their summer holidays and educating themselves in order to get involved in the local seafood industry. The course offers a broad insight into the skills needed to become involved in a career in commercial fishing and each of these young students has successfully acquired this knowledge through their own hard work. I wish them all the best in their future careers.’ Photo bottom: Fourteen teenagers successfully completed their Introduction to Commercial Fishing at Rosmuc VEC in July and were presented with FETAC Level 3 Modules in Navigation and Net Mending. (L-r): Seán Bheilbigh, Seosamh Ó Curraoin, Patrick Ó Conghaile, Camila Ní Fhátharta, Catherine Ní Dhroighneáin, Eileen de Búrca, Sarah Ní Cheannabháin, Fionnán Ó Neachtain, Síle Ní Shuilleabháin, Antaine Óg Ó Mainín, Ciarán Ó Conaire, Aodán Ó Conaire, Páraic Óg Ó Conaire, Máirtín Bairéad, Badiul Alam, Micheál Ó Neachtain, Cathal Ó Conghaile, Ciarán Ó Dubháin, Bob Walsh, Bridie Uí Chonámha. Photo below: Michael Neachtain and Cathal Ó Conghaile putting the finishing touches to the boat building project. Photos courtesy of Boyd Challenger
Try something new-get involved in making a DVD. The aim of this project is to creatively explore the ‘simple things in life’ and how people utilise important resources by coming together to positively deal with poverty and social exclusion. Animation/creativity will be used to explore this important social issue. This DVD will also accompany and complement the book. To get involved contact Anne, Maria, Cliona in Clann Resource Centre 091-557-633
Beginner’s Computer Classes ‘Age Action-Getting Started’ Computer Classes for over 55’s are set to take place in Oughterard. This is a programme for older people to help them gain confidence and basic skills in computers and the internet. Absolute basics will be covered for 6-8 weeks with volunteer trainers. The classes will be fun with an emphasis on encouragement and support and run for about two hours each week and the learner to trainer ratio will be very low. The pace of class will be set to
August 2010
Connemara View Newspaper
Roundstone
Musical Evening It has certainly been a hive of activity in Roundstone in July with the two day rowing regatta, traditional music and a group of 70 American gospel singers from California who visited the village for two days. They sang in the Community Hall introduced by our Christina Lowry and joining her with were our own traditional musicians. As well as many others there were 8 young lads from Carna who are part of the Comhaltas under the eye of Marcus Hernon and they gave an incredible performance. Our own Joe McDonagh who by the way has just reached his 80th birthday, sang a couple of sean nós songs. It was an incredible evening and we were all seriously blown away by the cultural exchange of people with the music and song. Photos are up on the website www.roundstone.ie.
Roundstone St. Patrick’s Day Parade 2011 There is ongoing fundraising for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade which will be held in Roundstone next year in conjunction with Cancer Care West. 25th July saw a coffee morning after Mass in Eldon’s Hotel and there was a Poker night on the 28th July in the Shamrock Bar. On Saturday 7th August again in the Shamrock Bar at 8pm there will be a live auction with guest auctioneer Colm O’Donnellan. Colm will be setting up for auction a wide range of goods and services including a tractor load of turf, picnic bench, wide screen HD TV, top soil or a load of gravel or sand, car valet service, soft furnishing and upholstery cleaning, 4 days gardening and a bull calf called Boris! It is hoped that there will be lots more to come on the night, so meanwhile if anybody has some good or services to offer, I am sure Katrina Keane and Marion McDonagh the young organisers would love to hear from you for this really worthwhile cause.
20th Tour de Bog This year is the 20th Anniversary of the Tour De Bog which will be sponsored by www.2wheels.com. At the moment they are designing the T-shirts for the 20th Anniversary which will go on sale for €10. The monies collected will go to part three on the refurbishment of the Community Hall. Ted Sherwood has also sponsored a very different type of medal for riders in various categories.
Fr McCarthy Retirement Fr Mc McCarthy’s last Mass in Roundstone was a lovely but sad affair. Fr. John spoke kindly about his time in Roundstone and the goodness and kindness of his flock particularly during his term of illness. Richard spoke about the great legacy which Fr John has left behind him introducing ministers of the Eucharist and Mass readers in Roundstone and Cashel. Richard also read a poem that the poet Paul Durcan wrote after the “Fr McCarthy Mass experience” and he called it the fastest Mass in the west. Oh boy will we miss him. A presentation was made to Fr. John in the community hall after the mass; the ladies of the area did everyone proud with the spread that was provided. Fr John received a nice hand shake from his people and Roundstone visitors with a nice painting to remind him of his time here and also his retirement cheque collected from local and visitors. We wish him all the very best in his retirement and if you are in Knock keep an eye out for him! We welcome Father Jarlath Heraty to
Roundstone. We feel he is a very nice and caring man and he will do his very best to fill the needs of the parish with our help. There is no doubt about it that come September there will be changes. For example there will be no Saturday Masses; this has to happen as it’s a big parish. Also the Pastoral Council will have a lot more work to do so it is quite possible there will be a few more pastoral prayer services during the week. I feel sure it will all pan out in the end, it will of course all depend on the Archbishop of Tuam to look favourably on the parish and hopefully bring us a permanent priest and we just have to go with the flow.
Condolences We have sadly lost another character from the village of Roundstone. Nora King (Babie) of Inishnee, was buried in Gurteen. It has to be said the late Nora King was an extraordinary lady in so many ways. Our condolences on behalf of Roundstone to all her immediate family and relations. May she rest in peace. Bridie Doherty who died in New York was a sister to Chris De Courcey of Errisbeg. May she rest in peace.
Noyelle sous Lens Youth Visit As part of our Twinning village in France, ten French youth with their leaders arrived in Roundstone for a week as part of the cultural exchange and all stayed with me at Errisbeg House. We all went to the smoked salmon factory in Ballyconneely and were given a tour with Graham Roberts- it was impressive- then we went off to the Aillwee caves. We also took in Kylemore, Killary, shopping in Galway and cycle tours, luckily I did not have to be with them on the cycle tour, God gave me legs to walk! In August 42 adults will also spend a few days in Roundstone so there you are, the cultural exchange is really working, not only that but a few bob is being spent into the area.
ing of the Boats, the Harbour and its people. At the same time we will remember all those who lost their lives at sea and pray for those that enjoy and work on the sea.
Tidy Towns I gather that the adjudication for the Tidy Towns 2010 has now been done so let’s hope for really high results this year. The FÁS team have been with us for a considerable amount of time, with the help of the Galway County Council and the supervision of Donal Nee, who is responsible for Roundstone and Clifden. What an enormous contribution the FÁS team has made in Roundstone, enhancing the beauty of our unique and picturesque village over the years. They have worked so hard along with our tidy towns committee to ensure our village is looking its best for the summer season. Ann Conneely & Richard De Stacpoole
Roundstone Summerfest 2010 The annual festival of fun and craic will take place in Roundstone village from Thursday August 12th to Sunday August 15th in aid of the RNLI. Now in its eighth year the Summerfest provides music, fun, games and activities for the young and young at heart while also raising valuable funds for the Lifeboat service. For more details see www.roundstonesummerfest.com.
Monty Hall Talk
Congratulations to Paddy Connolly’s daughter Niamh who got married to John Joyce on Sunday August 1st.
A talk by BBC presenter Monty Hall and his crew who have been filming the wildlife and coastline of Connemara for the last three months will take place on Saturday August 7th at 5pm in the Roundstone Community Hall. Titled ‘The Story of the Great Irish Escape’, the talk will be a sneak peek of what will be featured in the upcoming BBC series. There will be a charge of €5 on the door and all proceeds raised will go towards purchasing a rescue pontoon for stranded dolphins and whales along the Connemara coast.
Birthday Wishes
Roundstone Water Supply
Congratulations to Amanda Keane who celebrated her 24th birthday recently.
Residents in parts of Roundstone are without water due to the increased demand over the August Bank Holiday Weekend. Despite the fact that for the last few weeks
70th Wedding Anniversary Congratulations to Agnes and Martin DeCourcey on their 70th Wedding Anniversary on Sunday August 1st .The whole family got together to celebrate the event so there were five generations of DeCourcey’s under the same roof for some food and wine.
Wedding
Roundstone Dog Show What started with a very wet morning, turned out to be a very successful day. Paddy the Yank true to form put on a very good show and I think it also has to be said that the success of the show was really down to an enormous amount of effort by local volunteers to ensure the smooth running of classes. It was a wonderful family day out as there were a lot more activities for children, including bouncing castle, go-karts etc this year. This is where our focus needs to remain, to ensure we nurture our community based spirit and make the day a great family outing for everyone with their pets. See photos on page 38.
the Roundstone Public Water Supply has been shut off nightly from midnight to 7am to conserve water many homes were left without water for over a week. Cllr. Eileen Mannion stated that over the August Bank Holiday weekend there was a big influx of visitors to the Roundstone area which increased the demand for water but unfortunately an adequate supply of water was not reaching some homes outside the village. The Roundstone water supply comes from the Carna-Cill Chiarain Water Scheme since 2009 and when the system was put in place it was believed that pumps were not necessary to get the water from Carna to Roundstone; that gravity would be adequate to get the water to the reservoir. However, when there is increased demand for water in the area the gravity feed is not strong enough and the solution to this problem is to install pumps. Cllr. Mannion said that Galway County Council are currently in the process of installing pumps and when the pumps are in place it is hoped that all homes connected to the Public Water Supply will have a satisfactory supply. The pumps should be in place within the next two to three weeks.
Memorial Mass & Boat Blessing On Sunday the 15th of August which is the feast of the Assumption of Our Lady, who is known as Our Lady, Star of the Sea, a special Mass will be said by Fr. Jarlath down by the Harbour Wall at 6pm with the bless-
Connemara View Newspaper
August 2010
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Adopt a Loving Pet
emissions of greenhouse gases from the burning of fossil fuels. “New building regulations coupled with a change in consumer behaviour and attitudes has led to a significant increase in the number of renovation and construction projects embracing energy efficient design”, Mr. Holohan stated. Projects entered in the competition must be fully completed by December 2010 and not more than 5 years old. Closing date for entries is October 8th 2010. The Irish awards ceremony will take place in December 2010. For more see www.isover-eea.com.
MADRA (Mutts Anonymous Dog Rescue+Adoption) is based in Camus, Connemara and is a volunteer dog rescue and adoption group run by qualified dog trainers. In 2009, MADRA rescued over 600 dogs of all shapes and sizes in need of good homes and always have dogs looking for good homes. This gorgeous, little Cocker spaniel Tigger is an unbelievable 9 years old! You would never know it, as Tigger is still very youthful and active and loves his walks. Tigger’s owner had to give him up as she was getting older than him and she felt he needed a more active lifestyle than she could give. He’s a very happy little guy and has obviously not
Conamara Thiar ar TG4
had a hard life. We think he’d make a lovely companion in most households. As he has not been around children much we don’t think it would be fair to start now, so adults only please. He was also an only dog and again, although he has no problem with other dogs, we’d like to see him as the only dog in a house. As with all our dogs, Tigger will be microchipped, neutered and vaccinated for his new home. All our dogs also come with a free training session to get you and your new dog as ready as possible. Please check out our website www.madra.ie or call 086-814-9026/087-910-3101 for more info on Tigger and some of our other pets-in-waiting.
North West Connemara enjoyed some great coverage when TG4’s popular show Féilte visited Clifden, Letterfrack and Renvyle for a show broadcasted on Thursday July 29th. Local contributors included Donal O Scanaill, Joe Coyne, J.J. Mitchell and Matt O’ Sullivan in Clifden, Liz and Yvonne Kane in Letterfrack and Emma O’ Sullivan and Johnny O’ Halloran in Renvyle. Chef Tim O’ Sullivan also demonstrated how to prepare a delicious scallop dish with Féilte presenter Síle Ní Bhraonáin.
Birthday Greetings Congratulations to Anne Walsh of Market Hill, Clifden who enjoyed a surprise 50th birthday party with family and friends at the Station House Hotel on Thursday July 8th. She is pictured here with her daughters Leanne and Gemma.
Walk with Connemara Geographic Connemara Geographic is a new walking guide service now available in Connemara. In association with the West Ireland Walking Centre based in Letterfrack, local professional, fully insured guides are now offering guided walks and hikes in many different areas of the Connemara mountain ranges. Some of the guides offering their services have undertaken the Professional Hill Walking Guide Course delivered in Letterfrack by Connemara Tourism, Failte Ireland, Co. Galway VEC and Forum Connemara Ltd and are now putting their skills to good use. The level of guides now available in the area has opened up the huge potential of walking tourism in Connemara and the local guides bring an intimate knowledge and understanding of the Connemara countryside to all walks. Daily walks depart from Letterfrack Lodge. For more details, call 087-222-8538 or go to www.connemarawalking.com.
Energy Efficient Buildings Award The considerable shift within the Irish construction industry towards energy efficient building design is being acknowledged by a newly launched awards scheme. Building professionals including architects, engineers, builders and developers, across Galway City and County are being urged to submit entries to the Isover Energy Efficiency Awards (EEA), which recognise new and renovated buildings that have been built with a very low energy demand. A €10,000 prize will be presented to the overall winner of the Irish finals who will go forward to represent Ireland at a European Awards ceremony in Madrid in May 2011. The winner will also be profiled in the internationally-distributed Isover ‘Best Of ’ book. According to Mr. Kieran Holohan of ISOVER Ireland: “The new awards scheme will celebrate Ireland’s most energy efficient renovation and new construction projects, both in the residential and non-residential sectors.” He pointed out that much of Ireland’s existing building stock continues to consume a considerable amount of energy for heating with significant
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August 2010
Connemara View Newspaper
Renvyle U-14s Division 3 Champs Renvyle captured the Division 3 U14 Championship in Pearse Stadium Galway on Friday July 23rd with a 1 point victory over a very strong and powerful Oranmore/Maree side. It was a fitting climax to a season in which they had already been crowned Galway Féile champions in their division. A 5 point defeat to Craughwell in the County League final denied them a hat-trick of county titles. Their achievement is even more remarkable given the total panel is made up of only 20 players and some of these are drawn from U12 and U13 panels. The championship final in Pearse Stadium was a tense affair from start to finish, ultimately settled by a two goal blast midway through the second half. Most of the players on both teams were playing at the home of Galway football for the first time and the nerves showed in the play early on. Defences were in control at both ends and Gary Mullen, Karl McConway and Captain Cathal Acton were to the fore for Renvyle. In mid-field Nathan Staunton and Brendan Regan had a great battle with the Oranmore lads right through the match. Against a tight marking defence, the usual sharp shooters Barry Salmon and Josh Lydon were finding space hard to come by. With 4 points each at half time and all to play for, the second half was as nerve-wrecking as the first for the Renvyle supporters that had travelled for the game. 12 minutes in, a brilliant run and shot by Brendan Regan gave the Connemara lads a crucial goal. This was followed a minute later by another Renvyle goal, when Gary Mullen finished a cracking shot after Josh Lydon won vital possession near the
Are You a Rough Diamond? Adventure racing comprising of different sporting disciplines has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many athletes, cyclists and activity enthusiasts regularly braving the elements of Connemara each year. So what if you are more of a ‘Try Anything’ than a ‘Tri-Athlete’? Maybe you’d like to take part in a fun outdoor event without the feeling of ultra competitive pressure and have some guaranteed laughs along the way as well as getting your heart pumping and muscles working? A new kind of homegrown adventure challenge has now been created by the Connemara Rough Diamond Adventure Race and Music Festival which will take place on Saturday August 28th, beginning at Lettergesh Beach at 12 noon and culminating on the lawns of Connemara West in Letterfrack, where the Rough Diamond Festival will party on until the small hours with music in all the bars and street entertainment. What will make the Rough Diamond different to all other adventure races will be the element of fun achieved by participating in running, biking, hiking and various obstacle challenges throughout the course, which is designed for all levels of fitness, with the focus on pure enjoyment. It is 60 years ago this summer since John Wayne rode the winning horse on Lettergesh beach in ‘The Quiet Man’. To commemorate this, the course features the John Wayne Steeplechase, but this time around it will be the Rough Diamond participants that will run and jump over the straw bale hurdles, water jumps, troughs and ditches over a 1 mile 4 furlongs distance! This will be a race like no other where humans take the place of horses-guaranteed to provide hilarity to both spectators and participants. One of the Rough Diamond organisers Michael Laffey remembers his grandmother proudly recalling John Wayne in the family kitchen in Lettergesh, where Wayne politely asked “Excuse me ma’am could I have another one of your black
Connemara SportsView
Oranmore goal. The Renvyle switches were working well, Mullen was doing great at full forward and Jack Kane was happy in his familiar fullback slot. With Renvyle leading 2-5 to 0-5, the game seemed secure but Oranmore rallied to the end and when the referee blew the final whistle, Renvyle had held on for victory on a scoreline of 2-5 to 1-7. They were all heroes in the last few minutes when only their team spirit kept them going. All the evenings training in wind, rain and snow and having to listen to Brendan, Joe and Benny had finally brought its reward! Cathal Acton was presented with the cup amid wild celebrations and Brendan Regan received the Player of the Match award. Renvyle Panel: Matthew McCarty, George Mullen, Gary Mullen, Dylan Barry, Karl McConway, Cathal Acton, Martin Joyce, Nathan Staunton, Brendan Regan, Tommy Mullen, Barry Salmon, James O’Farrell, Josh Lydon, Jack Kane, Nigel Walsh, Michael Faherty, Jordan Kearney, Aiden Mortimer, Dara Faherty. Selectors: Brendan Kane, Joachim Lydon, Benny Kane. Photo left: Renvyle U-14 Captain Cathal Acton with the Division 3 Championship Cup. Photo above: Brendan Regan receives his Player of the Match award from Tadhg O Conghaile after the Renvyle Under 14s side won the Division 3 Championship in Pearse Stadium on July 23rd. News & Photos courtesy of Joachim Lydon
beers?” as she refilled his glass from a bucketful of Guinness! After the beach gallop, a bike ride will take one past Lough Fee and Lough Muc and across the bottom of the Inagh Valley into magical Kylemore Woods for an obstacle course, the likes of which will have never been seen before! Over a terrain of mud, water, bogs and rivers the course will include local legends such as ‘Fear Gorta’ or the hungry grass-a supernatural legend in Connemara where locals believed in times gone and some still believe today, that certain fields and expanses of grass zap the energy from humans! Beam walks, high ropes, cargo net pyramids, tyre tricks and lots more will provide a giggle a minute and bonus points can be earned along the way with Garden Gnomes. After the assault course the final leg of the adventure race will be a quick bike ride to Letterfrack and a jaunt up and down the majestic Diamond Mountain before retiring to Letterfrack village for refreshments and entertainment for the evening. This adventure racing event will be achievable by anyone with a modest level of fitness and is guaranteed to put a smile on both participants and spectators’ faces. The West of Ireland Cardiac Foundation Croí will also benefit
August 2010
from funds raised by this truly unique Connemara event. For more information or to register go to www.connemararoughdiamond.com or join the Facebook page ‘The Connemara Rough Diamond Funventure’.
RNLI 10K Race 2010
Love a challenge-or just want a reason to get fit? Then why not enter the yearly Clifden Lifeboat 10k race, which will take place on Sunday 12th September, in Clifden. Runners, walkers and teams are all welcome and this year will see the addition of three age categories. The route which takes you up the famous Sky road has been billed as one of the most scenic areas in Connemara on a clear day. Enter as an individual, (you never know, you may get the prize for beating the previous best time), or as a team and compete against other businesses or clubs. An AAI permit has been applied for and chip timing will ensure accurate time. All money raised from the popular annual event 10k race goes to the Clifden Lifeboat. For more information call or text 085-168-0402 or email clifden10k@ irelandmail.com. Alternatively you can also enter online at www.runireland.com.
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Oughterard GAA News Oughterard Cúl Camp 2010 Cúl Camp ran from 12th-16th July and about 30 kids took part. Everyone really enjoyed the week and luckily we only had to shelter a couple of times! (See photo above.)
Lotto Win!
Clifden GAA Camp Clifden GAA Juvenile Club hosted the annual VHI Cúl Camp at the GAA pitch in Clifden in July. Once again it was a great success, with all participants greatly enjoying the week’s events. Head Coach John
West Coast Gear Up for New Season All West Coast teams are back in training for the 2010/11 season. We hope to continue the great work being done with the underage section but the club’s main objective is to get the Seniors up to Division 2. Last year’s success has generated huge interest in football in North West Connemara and West Coast Utd are becoming a real force in Galway soccer again. We are always looking for new players and volunteers, so anyone interested should contact the following managers: Seniors: Joachim Lydon 086-409-8814, Kurt Lydon 087-769-1947, Danny Coyne 086-398-9589. U14/15: Brendan Kane 086-103-8463. U13: Terence Mullen 086-350-1845 U11: Finian Sheridan 086-088-2941. U8/9 will be arranged at a later date as they
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Connolly and his coaches were excellent. Malachy ‘Bodhran’ Kearns very kindly provided refreshments and treats for the kids on the last day of the camp and the Station House Bar in Clifden provided lunch daily after the camps. The camp was also generously supported by James Sullivan, J.J.’s taxi, Johnny Wallace, Joe Lynch of SuperValu Clifden and the man from Cork Patsy O’Donoghue. As the camp week came to an end Head Coach John Connolly of Roscahill said “The children were a credit to their parents and their schools”. Mol an Óige agus tiocfaidh siad. Paul Fitzpatrick don’t play official league games. All head coaches are qualified to at least FAI level 2 standard and all coaches have been Garda vetted.
Aviva Stadium Trip 25 players from the underage section will be guests of the FAI for the opening game in the Aviva Stadium on August 11th when Ireland host Argentina. The invitation was extended by John Delaney CEO of the FAI when he attended the club’s 25th anniversary celebrations last January. It promises to be a wonderful occasion.
Summer Soccer Camp Now in its eighth year, the Summer Soccer Schools camp has always proved to be hugely popular with youngsters returning year after year. This year’s camp is for boys and girls aged 6 to 14. The highly trained coaches will work with both advanced players and complete beginners. All are guaranteed loads of football and a week of fun in a safe environment. Please book early as a late booking fee applies to applications in the week before camp and on the morning of camp. To book on-line go to www.fai.ie or phone 1890-653-653, or contact local FAI co-ordinator Joachim Lydon at 086-409-8814.
Congratulations to Aaron Molloy (See photo below) on recently winning the Oughterard GAA Lotto jackpot of €9600. Aaron was presented with his cheque by our
We are looking for any unwanted metal you may have and want to get rid of. A free skip will be available in the Corribdale car park to collect all metal, iron, copper, aluminium items, old cars and some farm machinery. For those with difficulty bringing the items to Oughterard, some Oughterard members will be available with a trailer to collect suitable items that Saturday morning. Free collection of larger items is available. Unfortunately we are unable to recycle plastics and white goods. For more information contact John Joe on 087-266-3048 for collection or further details.
Underage
club Chairman Matt Healy, Treasurer Liam Tierney and Secretary John Byrne in our club sponsor Faherty’s Bar. We would like to thank all the sellers and buyers for supporting our club lotto in the past and hopefully in the future. If you are interested in giving the club a hand or if you have any ideas to help develop the lotto feel free to contact John Byrne at secretary.oughterard.galway@ gaa.ie. It is now also possible to support our club lotto on line. You can purchase tickets at http://www.locallotto.ie/oughterardgaa/ and we really hope that some of our “international fans” will take this great opportunity to support our club.
Oughterard Intermediates After a recent run of good results in the Sweeney Oil league, Oughterard GAA exited the competition after being beaten by An Cheathru Rua 1-14 to 0-9. Oughterard Intermediates will be playing Glenamaddy in the next round of the Championship on the weekend of August 14th-15th and we all hope that the intermediates have a long run in the championship.
Oughterard Juniors Due to a lot of injuries and travelling both the Junior A and Junior C team have lost a lot of players but both are doing reasonably well in their respective leagues. Our Junior A team have 3 league games to play against St. Michaels, Fr. Griffins and Barna and our Junior C team has one league game against Renvyle and the first round of the Junior C championship against Aran on the 28th of August.
Scrap Collection Fundraiser Oughterard are organising a “Scrap Saturday” on August the 14th in Corribdale.
August 2010
The club hosted an U8 and U10 blitz on the 26th of June in Corribdale. It was run on a 7 or 9 a-side basis where kids get to play in several positions and everyone plays. The other participating clubs were Moycullen, Barna, and Killannin. Over 120 kids took part. We had great help putting up goals, refereeing, managing teams, selling tickets and making tea. The feedback was very positive and everyone enjoyed the day. The U8s also had a great blitz with neighbours Killannin on 5th July-thanks to Maria O’Halloran, Declan Darcy and Liam Tierney. The U11 team under Johnny Whittaker and Niall Walsh had a great day in Pearse Stadium where they won both their games against Clifden and Fr Griffins. Everyone played really well and enjoyed the day. Cúl Camp ran from 12th-16th July and about 30 kids took part. Everyone really enjoyed the week and luckily we only had to shelter a couple of times!
Masters The Galway Masters (Over 40) football team played the Oughterard team on Tuesday the 6th of July in an enjoyable challenge. Pat Burke, Eamon Walsh and player/manager Harry Walsh played for the Masters. It ended in a draw: Galway 3-8 to Oughterard 2-11. Mayo beat Galway the following Thursday in Shrule on a scoreline of Mayo 1-16 Galway 1-5. Since this game the GAA Competitions Control Committee (CCC) has stopped the Masters competition. It is not clear why. Harry Walsh, Oughterard GAA
Send in your news, views & photos to news@ connemaraview.com or phone 095-22888 Connemara SportsView
Connemara Pony Shows Claddaghduff Show August 8th The Claddaghduff Show will be held on 8th August in the Showfield with the first class commencing at 10.30am sharp. Entries have now closed with exception of the crafts which will be taken on the day so get your creative hats on! Judging for the sheep commences at 1pm, followed by cattle. The Dog Show starts at 2pm sharp and entries can be made between 12.30 pm to 1.30 pm and will feature classes for pedigrees, cutest puppy, terriers, working dogs, best dressed dog, toy group and many more including one for the veterans, so bring your faithful friend whatever breed or age-there is bound to be a class to suit. Face painting, bouncy castles and dancing for the kiddies will round up a great day out. For information contact Susan Cockburn 087-676-8584.
Clifden Connemara Pony Festival August 16th- 22nd The Connemara Pony Festival 2010 was launched in July when Currachmore Cashel, last year’s Supreme Champion owned by Eamonn Burke visited the Coral Strand. Joe Burke and Eamonn’s grandson Jack look set to make sure that the family’s Connemara pony tradition will continue for many years to come! Photo below courtesy of Andrew Downes.
mara. Huge thanks must go to the Show Committee under the chairmanship of Henry O’Toole for initiating and overseeing this work. Following on the success of the Puissance competition last year it is now firmly fixed as an annual event at the Performance Show on Friday. In addition there will also be working hunter classes, a musical ride organised by Judy Cazabon and a parade of all the champions of the show from Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Connemara Pony sales will take place in Clifden Mart on Saturday and Sunday commencing at 11am each day. There will be a large selection of top quality registered Connemara ponies on offer for those of you interested in buying a pony. To view the Gearoid Curran from Glencarrig Stud with the Supreme Champion Connemara Pony catalogue visit www.connemara at the R.D.S. Coosheen Lisa by Cian Geoghegan from Blakehill Stud in Cong, bred by ponysales.com. Mrs Elizabeth Petch, and purchased at the Clifden Mart Sales last May. Ruth Rogers For more details on any of the above events please visit our gmail.com or check out the show web-site: www.oughtewebsite www.cpbs.ie , find us on Facebook or contact the rardshow.com where entry forms may be downloaded. CPBS Office on 095-21863. Leslie Lyons P.R.O.
Big Win at Dublin Show
Dog Show The annual Dog show will be held at the Connemara Pony Show on Thursday 19th August. Classes will commence at 2pm with entries being taken from 12 noon to 1.45pm. The Champion Dog will receive the Diana Geddes Perpetual trophy and the first three places in each class will receive Rosettes and Brandy Complete Dog Food. Entry fee is €5. To view the list of classes and decide which is most suitable for your pooch visit www.cpbs.ie .
Oughterard Agricultural Show August 28th & 29th
The annual Connemara Pony Festival will run in Clifden from Monday 16th August to Sunday 22nd August. Monday 16th August will see the festival commence with an educational seminar in the National Park in Letterfrack at 3pm. Tuesday will have an international theme, with the international AGM and international conference taking place in the Station House Hotel at 1pm. Abbeyglen Castle Hotel will host the international reception on Tuesday evening where the overseas breeders will get the opportunity to meet with the Irish breeders. On Wednesday 32 3-year old ponies will compete to gain the title of Champion Loose Jumping Connemara Pony at 2pm. Thursday August 19th is the highlight of the festival when ponies from all over Ireland will travel to Clifden to compete at this internationally renowned show and 2010 sees a record number of entries. There will be 24 in-hand classes and 10 ridden classes. For the first time the stallion class will be split in two with one class for 4, 5 and 6 year olds and another class for stallions aged seven years and over. The Bobby and Bridie Bolger Memorial Cup will be presented to the winner of the 4, 5 and 6 year old stallion class. A special prize sponsored by Diamond’s Equestrian of Renvyle will be presented to the champion pony handler of the show, who will receive the William J. Diamond Memorial Trophy. The official opening of the show will be performed by Minister Brendan Smith. During 2010 extensive work has been carried out on Ring One in the Showgrounds, ensuring it is now one of the best show rings in the country. Some of this work was kindly funded by Forum Conne-
Connemara SportsView
The Show schedule is out, the closing date for entries is Thursday August 19th and it is now just a few weeks until the 48th Annual Oughterard Show which takes place on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th of August. Saturday will see the 9th Connemara Pony Performance Championships which have been taking place in Oughterard for eight years but which had their beginnings at Mountbellew Show in 2002. Last year’s championships were the most successful to date, with entries well up, and approximately 80 ponies competing. Sunday’s schedule of events will see the arrival of boxes, lorries and trailers and containers of all sorts carrying ponies, foals, sheep, cattle, donkeys, dogs, cats, pets and horses ready to take their places in the rings for scrutinising by the judges. If your preference is for vintage machinery, cars or for seeing a tractor being assembled in less than ten minutes you will not be disappointed. For the past few years the working sheep dog demonstrations and competitions have been a major attraction and these are taking place again on this occasion. A new full pedigree section organised by the Western Simmental Club has been added to the cattle section and included are two qualifiers for the Western Simmental Corby Calf Finals at Ballinrobe on the fifth of September. Something not to be missed will be the Domestic Arts Section of the Show in the Community Centre. There will be found a wide array of produce from the farm and garden as well as fruit, flowers, flower arrangements, bread, cakes, tarts, jams, sandwiches, desserts, biscuits and butter together with homecrafts, artwork and photographs. On the field there will also be a selection of stalls selling all kinds of items ranging food to crafts while, in addition to music, song and dance, there will be the usual “Bonny Baby” and “Little Miss and Little Master Oughterard” competitions. We look forward to two bright sunny days as well as some good weather leading up to the event so that the grounds will be in perfect condition. For further information please contact Secretary, Maria O’Neill, Show Office, Camp Street, Oughterard, Tel:086-151-7289, Email: oughterardshow@
August 2010
Midlands Show Results The Midlands Connemara Pony Show 2010 took place at Annaharvey Farm just outside Tullamore on July 25th. The Junior Champion was Tom MacLochlainn’s two year old filly Ashbrook Orga, by Hazy Match-Blue Rose, with Kieran McGrath’s Hazlerock Star, by Glencarrig Prince-Smokey Star in reserve. The Midlands All Ireland Broodmare Championship and the Lady De Vesci Perpetual Cup, which had a very large entry, went to Sean Dunne’s Banks Vanilla, by Teglstrup Duke-Squares Do Do, while the Supreme Championship was claimed by Pat and Mary Rabbitt’s Monaghanstown Prince, by Glencarrig Prince-Monaghanstown Sheeba. Connemara class winners at Midlands were Cathal Mullen’s Gurteen Eimear, Ann Conroy and Patrick Conneely’s Errismore Rocky, Caillin Conneely’s Glencarrig Rosemarie and Bridget Snow’s Silver Queen. Photos from top: At Midlands show, Cathal Mullen’s Gurteen Eimear qualified for the final of the All Ireland two year old filly class at Ballinasloe. Noel Noonan of Manor Connemara Ponies in Clifden, who was the overall show sponsor at the Midlands Show, presents the Supreme Championship to Pat Rabbitt and Monaghanstown Prince. Results & photos courtesy of Ruth Rogers
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Roundstone Regatta 2010
Clifden Regatta August 6th-8th
At the Roundstone Regatta 2010, the Mens’ Senior 6 Oar Canvas Currach Final winners were the Maharees 1 Team of Micheal O’Leary, Declan Griffin, and Tommy Griffin. (See photo below top).
Hosted by the Clifden Boat Club, 20 yachts are expected to attend the Clifden Regatta 2010 which takes place in Clifden Bay on August 6th, 7th and 8th. The Clifden Boat Club’s dinghy fleet will also be racing, but in closer proximity to the clubhouse (which makes a good viewing base), while the yachts will be racing out in the bay. Clifden Regatta was recently quoted to be “as usual, the regatta to be at” on the West Coast. That was from a regular visiting competitor’s point of view. Clifden Regatta 2010 is once again a ‘West Coast Superleague Event’. This means it is one of six events on the West coast which holds valuable points to determine the ‘Superleague Winner’ at the end of the Sailing Season. A Clifden yacht, ‘Hallmark’ has won that title for the last three years in a row but unfortunately that yacht is taking a break from the Superleague this year. The Committee of the Clifden Boat Club are always working away, either at the front line or in the background trying to make the most of what can be done here. All regatta information can be got at www. clifdenboatclub.com. Clifden has recently won their bid to host the “WIORA West Coast Championships” in 2011, which is now just 11
Results Hookers: 1st Naomh Cailin, 2nd American Mor, 3rd Truelite, 4th Tonai, 5th Maidean Mara, 6th Capall, 7th Morning Star. Leath Bad: 1st Blaith Na Hoighe, 2nd Volunteer, 3rd Naomh Antoine, 4th Colmcille, 5th St John. Gleoiteog Mór: 1st Naomh Ciaran, 2nd Naomh Ina, 3rd St Katherine, 4th Widgeon. Gleoiteog Beag: 1st Ceol Na Mara, 2nd McHugh, 3rd Nora Beag, 4th Lady Chantelle, 5th Naomh Anna. Midgets: 1st St Peter, 2nd Noel Connolly. U-16 4 Oar Currach Confined: 1st Cian Conneely and Dylan King, 2nd Alan Conneely and Patrick Creane. Fear agus Bean: 1st Kerry: Brian Kennedy and Ailish Dean, 2nd Paul McGonagle and Joanne Boyle, 3rd Carraroe: Sean Boyle and Annie Lee, 4th Rosses 1: Oscar Duffy and Annie Duffy. Junior Final U-18: 1st Oughterard/Tooreen: Paraic O’Malley, Michael Naughton, James Butler, 2nd Oughterard: Stephen Tierney, Enda Tierney, Michael Forrester, 3rd Dingle 1: Kevin Granville, Sean Kavanagh, Eoin Griffin, 4th Dingle 2: Eoin Greaney, Ciaran Wholohan, Roisin Bhreathnach. Ladies Senior 6 Oar Canvas Currach: 1st Carraroe: Peggy Folan, Mary T Griffin, Annie Lee. 2nd Rosses: Joanne Boyle, Annie Duffy, Fiona Mc Gonagle, 3rd Dingle: Maunza Heidke, Gillian Ni Bhrian, Marie Danagher, 4th Clare/ Kerry: Ailish Dean, Ann Potter, Leah O’Sullivan. Under 21 Naomhog: 1st Maharees 2: Danny Scanlon, Kieran Browne, Vincent Wyles, Sean Scanlon, 2nd Oughterard: Phelim Butler, Dara Kelly, Jamesie Butler, Michael Walsh, 3rd Maharees 1: Michael Hennessy, P.J. Griffin, Christopher Griffin, Pat O’Malley, 4th Inis Mhic Chionnaith : Shane McDonagh, Michael Loftus, Stephen McDonagh, Stephen McDonagh, 5th Dingle : Kevin Granville, Eoin Greaney, Eoin Griffin, Sean Kavanagh, 6th Portacarron: Stephen Tierney, Enda Tierney, Michael Forrester, AN other. Mens Senior 6 Oar Canvas Currach Final: 1st Maharees 1: Micheal O’Leary, Declan Griffin, Tommy Griffin, 2nd: Rosses: Paul McGonagle, Sean Boyle, Oscar Duffy, 3rd: Carraroe: Michel Folan, Jason Folan, Paul Folan, 4th: Oughterard 2: Eamonn Molloy, Brian Kennedy, Kevin Molloy. Ladies Naomhog: 1st Carraroe: Peggy Folan, Annie Gavin, Mary T Griffin, Annie Lee, 2nd Rosses: Joanne Boyle, Annie Duffy, Fiona McGonagle, AN. Other, 3rd Clare/Kerry: Ailish Dean, Leah O’Sullivan, Ann Potter, Eileen Quirke, 4th Dingle: Monza Heidke, Roisin Bhreathnach, Gillian Ni Bhrian, Marie Danagher. Mens Naomhog: 1st Maharees 3: Micheal O’Leary, Declan Griffin, Tommy Griffin, Stephen McDonagh, 2nd Oughterard: Kevin Molloy, Eamonn Molloy, Michael Kelly, Michael Walsh, 3rd Carraroe: Michael Folan, Jason Folan, Paul Folan, Coilin Naughton, 4th Rosses: Oscar Duffy, Sean Boyle, Paul McGonagle, James McGonagle, 5th Maharees 2: Danny Scanlon, Kieran Browne, Vincent Wyles, Jackie Goodwin, 6th Maharees 1: Michael Hennessy, P.J. Griffin, Christopher Griffin, Sean Scanlon. 4 Oar Timber Currach: 1st Maharees 1: Micheal O’Leary and Declan Griffin, 2nd Rosses: Paul McGonagle and James McGonagle, 3rd Maharees 2; Brian Kennedy and Tommy Griffin. Single Man Final: 1st Tommy Griffin, 2nd Brian Kennedy, 3rd Declan Griffin, 4th Michael Loftus. Timber Racers Under 20 ft: 1st Maharees: Micheal O’Leary, Declan Griffin, Tommy Griffin, 2nd Inis
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months away. It will be ‘all hands on deck’ from now until then to make it as good as it can be once again. Clifden hosted the WCC in 2007 and 2008 with over 40 yachts attending each year. As this brings 40 plus yachts with their crews and families for at least one week, many arriving the weekend before and not leaving until the week after, we will once again be looking for financial support from the local business community. Can anyone do the math here-how many beds, nights, lunches, dinners, pints etc... does that make?! We hope everyone enjoys this year’s Clifden Regatta and safe boating. Damian Ward, P.R.O. Clifden Boat Club
Oughterard Currach Regatta The annual Currach Regatta at Baurisheen Bay, Ireland’s only inland event of its kind took place in Oughterard on Sunday August 1st. There were various racing categories and entertainment for all the family, including a novelty rubber duck race. Photos from top: Mary Theresa Griffin, Annie Lee and Peig Folan, winners of the senior Women’s Currach class at the annual Regatta in Baurisheen Bay, Oughterard. Billy Molloy presents the first place cup to Aiden and Eoin Kelly, winners of the Double Scull class. Peter Kelly presents the first prize to Joe Joyce and Annie Lee from Connemara, winners of the Fear agus Bean class Currach race. Photos by Tom Broderick Photos Mhic Chionnaith : Shane McDonagh, Michael Loftus, Stephen McDonagh. Results & photos courtesy of Michael King Photos below from top: In the Timber Racers Under 20ft race were the team Inis Mhic Cionnaith, Shane McDonagh, Michael Loftus and Stephen McDonagh. The Oughterard team in the Mens’ Senior 6 Oar Canvas Currach Final was Eamonn Molloy, Brian Kennedy and Kevin Molloy. The Rosses team of Joanne Boyle, Annie Duffy and Fiona McGonagle in the Ladies Senior 6 Oar Canvas Currach race.
August 2010
Connemara SportsView
Ti g h t L i n e s Clifden Family Fishing Competition The Clifden Trout Anglers Association will hold its Annual Charity Family Fishing Competition on Derrylea Lake on Sunday August 22nd from1-5pm. The methods will be Fly, Worm and Spin with a 9” limit. There will be loads of fantastic prizes followed by a weigh-in at Station House Hotel at 5.30pm where there will also be a raffle and spot prizes. Entry Fees are €20 per family or €10 per individual. For more details contact Danny Vaughan at 087-654-2551 or Joe Acton at 086-677-7695. All proceeds raised will go towards Galway Hospice.
Cashel Sea Angling The Annual Cashel Sea Angling Competition took place on Saturday July 24th with an entry of 16 boats. The winning crew was Cormac Walsh, Johnny Faherty and Eamon Mannion with an overall catch of 215.5 kilos. In second place were Marty Keaney, Paraic Cloherty and Seamus Cloherty with 198.5 kilos and third were Mairtin Jennings, John Jennings and Oscar Folan with 172.5 kilos. The species prize was won by the crew of Gerry Linnane, James McDonagh and Mikey Staunton with 12 species caught. The ladies prize was won by Annie O’Carroll. The Under 18 category was won by Paul Lee Junior and the heaviest fish of a great day’s competition was a 6lb pollock caught by John Cloherty. Photo below: Annie O’Carroll receives the Ladies Cup from Cormac Walsh, Chairman of Cashel Sea Anglers. Photo right: Sean McDonagh pres-
ents the Cashel Sea Anglers Perpetual Cup to winning crew Eamonn Mannion, Cormac Walsh and Johnny Faherty. Photo bottom: The assembly of boats at the beginning of the 2010 Cashel Sea Angling Competition. News & Photos courtesy of Bernard Lee, P.R.O. of Cashel Sea Anglers.
Next Issue: Thursday, September 2nd Ad Space Reservation Deadline August 21st News Deadline August 25th Directory Classified Deadline August 25th
Spectacular Catches! Brittain Junior Reels in Shark & Ling The 12th of July was a good day for Peter Brittain aged 14, son of Clifden skipper John Brittain. While drifting off Slyne Head Peter caught, tagged and released a blue shark. The fish was his first ever and also Clifden’s first for 2010 so there were smiles all round. During the day Peter also had a specimen red gurnard of .930 kgs and a fine ling weighing around 7kgs plus 6 other species bringing his count for the day to 9. No pressure Dad! (See photos above).
Oughterard Youth Competition On Sunday July 18th, the Oughterard Anglers and Boatmen’s Association held the annual Kevin McQuinn Memorial Cup for their U16 membership. There were 31 entrants to the competition on what was a beautiful day on Lough Corrib with 13 anglers catching fish. All competitors went home with a prize, which were presented by Conor McQuinn. The competition was sponsored by McGeough’s Butchers who provided wonderful trophies and by Tommy Tuck, Tucks Angling Supplies and Oughterard Angling Club. Jimmy and Sara McGauley also kindly provided their garden
Connemara SportsView
095-22888 www.connemaraview.com First salmon for Young Casey Andrey Casey of Clifden was thrilled to land his first salmon ever with his Dad Eugene in July. (See photo above). for the weigh-in and presentation of prizes. Results: 1st Martin Molloy, 2nd Ryan Gibbons, 3rd Ben Clegget, 4th Rob H. Vard, 5th Lee Clegget, 6th Shane Joyce, 7th Owen Gibbons, 8th Malachy Lowry, 9th Rob Naughton & Ross Gibbons, 10th Lara Walker. Photos below from right: Conor McQuinn presents the Kevin McQuinn Memorial Cup with trophy and prize to Martin Molloy. Ryan Gibbons is presented with his second place trophy and prize. Ben Clegget is presented with his third place trophy and prize. Kevin Prunty - Sec. Oughterard Angling Club
August 2010
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Connemara Golf Club 11/07/10 Strokeplay, Lady Captains. Ladies: 1st E Cryan (27) 67, 2nd M Shaw (31) 69, Gross M Lavelle (11) 81, 3rd G McGettigan (19) 70, 4th M O’Reilly (14) 70, 5th M Jackson (12) 71, Past Captains D Murphy (15) 73, CSS: 72. Mens: 1st D Mannion (18) 68, 2nd K McGeough (17) 68, Gross D Collins (6) 73, 3rd F Joyce (14) 68, 4th K Coyne (20) 70, CSS: 73. 25/07/10 4 Ball, Ladies: 1st: M Jackson (12)/M Gannon (21) 40, 2nd B Barry (13)/O Breen (20) 37, 3rd J Donnellan (15)/M Brennan (20) 37, 4th A Walton (23)/C Williams (26) 36. Mens: 1st C Shanahan (12)/P Keane (19) 42, 2nd P Flaherty (8)/MJ Ruddy (18) 40, 3rd D Stapleton Snr (21)/D Stapleton (2) 40. 31/07/10, 4 Ball, Ladies: 1st M Lavelle (10)/M Brennan (20) 39pts (b9), 2nd D Murphy (15)/M Bourke (27) 39pts, 3rd: L Daly (8)/D McNicholl (24) 37pts (b9). Mens: 1st: R Joyce (17)/P Joyce (18) 39pts (b9), 2nd: M Gannon (18)/H Monaghan (17) 39pts, 3rd: C Hanratty (7)/B Scully (20) 38pts (b6). 01/08/10 Singles, Ladies: 1st A Hanratty (32) 32pts, 2nd D Tyrell (22) 38pts, Gross: M Jackson (12) 23pts, 3rd C Hurson (36) 37pts, CSS: 36pts. Mens: 1st P O’ Donoghue (16) 44pts, 2nd: L Booth (16) 41pts, Gross: G O’Donnell (6) 33pts, 3rd P Joyce (18) 39pts, CSS: 73.
(33b9), 3rd Nett Padraig Moran (Galway) (12) 67 Nett (30.5b9) CSS 70 Home, 71 Away. 13/07/10 18 Hole Stableford Open Day Competition: 1st Gerry Kennedy (11) 37pts, (B9 21) 2nd Tom Gallen (14) 37pts, (20B9, 4B2) 3rd Noel Tierney (20) 37pts, (20B9, 3B2), C.S.S 36 pts. 14/07/10 Ladies 18 Hole Stableford Sponsor: Open Dixon Carpets C.S.S. 73. 1st Kathleen Payne (28) 34pts, 2nd Mary O’ Grady (26) 33pts B9, Gross: Maire Ni Mhaille (14) 19, Gross Pts 3rd Eileen Dixon (29) 33pts. Category 0-20 1st Ursula Hernon (16) 32pts B9, 2nd Monica Power (20) 32pts, Category 21-28 1st Barbara Richardson (21) 33pts, 2nd Margaret O’ Donovan (24) 32pts, Category 29-36 1st Mary Hall (36) 32pts B9, 2nd Serena Butler (36) 32pts. Front Nine: Noreen Joyce Barna (33) 20pts, Back Nine: Mary Kyne (32) 18pts (B6). 20/07/10 Open Day Competition, 18 Hole Stableford. 1st David Byrne (16) 41pts, 2nd David Joyce (10) 40 pts, 3rd David Higgins (12) 38pts, (20B9), 4th Sean Frehan (11) 38pts, (19B9) C.S.S 36 Pts Home, 35 Pts Away. 21/07/2010 Ladies 18 Hole Stableford, Sponsor: Breathnachs Bar Oughterard, C.S.S. 76 Reduction Only.1st Bernie Heffernan (29) 37pts, 2nd Bernie McTigue (29) 36pts, Gross Maire Ni Mhaille (14) 19, Gross Pts 3rd Ann Kavanagh (17) 33pts. Category 0-20 1st Ursula Hernon (16) 31pts B9, 2nd Rita Jordan (16) 31pts, Category 21-28 1st F. White (27) 31pts, 2nd Ruth Cunningham (21) 30pts, Category 29-36 1st Mary Hall (36) 28 pts, 2nd C. O’ Keane (34) 24pts, Nearest the Pin: T. Butler. 27/07/10 Open Day Competition 18 Hole Stableford, 1st A. O’ Domhnaill (C. Isles) (25) 40pts, 2nd Niall Faherty (7) 39 pts, 3rd Christy Nyland (14) 38pts, (20B9). 4th C. McFadden (P, Salen) (20) 38pts, (19B9) C.S.S 36 Pts Home, 36 Pts Away Reduction Only. 28/07/10 Ladies 18 Hole Stroke, Captains Prize to Ladies, 1st C. Hosty (21) 69, 2nd K. Payne (28) 70, Gross: L. Gore (14) 88 Gross, 3rd Ruth Cunningham (21) 71, Category 0-20 1st M. Power (20) 74, 2nd Isolda Claffey (14) 75, 3rd R. Deacy (12) 77, Category 21-28, 1st A. Murphy (28) 73, 2nd E. Ruane (24) 75, 3rd B. McEvoy (22) 76, Category 29-36, 1st Mary Mylotte (29) 74, 2nd M. Hall (36) 76, 3rd P. Deacy (35) 77, Front 9 Mary Kyne (33) 35.5, Back 9 Ursula Molitor (30) 35.
Maam/Leenane Golf Society The Maam/Leenane Golfing Society had their second outing of the 2010 season at Cregmore Golf Club on Saturday 26th June where the clubhouse and staff were fantastic throughout the day. This was Captain’s Day for the society under our Captain for the Year, Des Larkin. Members: 1st Darren Joyce, 2nd Joe Donnelly, 3rd Des Larkin, 4th Terry Keenan. Guests: Packie Kellegher. Longest Drive: Terry Keenan. Nearest the Pin: Martin McDonnell. The next outing of the Society is on the 9th of October at Oughterard Golf Club. For information about playing or sponsorship contact Tomas at 087-205-0292.
Rugby Club Outing Photo above: Lady Captain Marie Bourke presents Eilish Cryan with the 2010 Lady Captain’s Prize at the Connemara Golf Club on July 11th. Photo below: Marie Bourke and Donal Mulcahy who achieved a hole in one at Connemara Golf Club in July. Photos courtesy of Padraic Lyden
The Oughterard Rugby Club held its annual golf outing at the Oughterard Golf Club on Friday July 23rd. The winning team of the day were Gerry Donnellan, Sean Daly and Eugene Thornton, seen here being presented with their prizes of three laptops and a plaque by Eoin Bresnihan (second from left). Photo below by Tom Broderick Photos
Oughterard Golf Club 11/07/10 18 Hole Competition, Junior Cup: 1st Gross Jones Ferriss (7) 75 (38b9), 2nd Gross Niall Lynch (Galway) (8) 75 (39b9), 3rd Gross Cathal O’Byrne (C. West) (8) 76 (36b9), 1st Nett Gerry Burke (9) 68 Nett (31.5b9), 2nd Nett Maurice Power (8) 68 Nett (32b9), 3rd Nett Richard McNamara (8) 68 Nett (35b9), CSS 70 Home, 71 Away. Intermediate Cup: 1st Gross Cathal O’Malley (14) 77 (40b9), 2nd Gross Luke Bohan (11) 77 (41B9), 3rd Gross Pat McEvilly (12) 78, 1st Nett Pascal McDonagh (13) 66Nett (32.5b9), 2nd Nett John Waters (16) 66 Nett
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RUGBY Connemara Rugby Round Up Players Meeting Connemara Rugby players had their first meeting in preparation for the upcoming season on Friday evening the 9th of July. They decided that training will recommence during the last week of July. Also a fitness programme is being organised for the Community School Gym. It is hoped that John Hartnett and John Malone, two recognised coaches, will help out - enquiries to Joe O’Connell. Pre-season games have been arranged with Castlebar, Loughrea and Monivea. Connacht League games will be held in September with some home fixtures.
Pitch Chairman of the Pitch Committee Tommy Coyne has reported on the excellent shape of the pitch. It was recently cut and fertilised and will be reseeded and further fertilised and should be in top shape for the new season. Herbicide has been sprayed on the surrounds to clean up and enhance the grounds. Well done Tommy.
Seven-a-side Tournament Connemara R.F.C will have a very special seven-a-side tournament at the Monastery field next July. It is proposed to accept the first 16 applicants for the Men’s section and the first 6 teams for the Ladies section. There will be a panel of 12 per team and payment of €120 per team at time of acceptance. The Connacht Branch are very supportive and agreed with the organisers’ selected dates of July 1st, 2nd and 3rd, 2011. The games will run on Friday evening, all day Saturday and the finals on Sunday. It is hoped that local businesses, Chamber of Commerce and the Tourist Board will be very supportive. The first week in July this year was quiet tourist wise and this fixture should be of some help locally. Chairman James Staunton has a committee of Irene King, Matt O’Sullivan, Pete Smyth and Kevin Keogh. It is hoped to make this tournament an annual fixture. There is interest already from teams from the U.S.A, South Africa and England.
Lotto Please promote and support our weekly lotto as the funds raised are needed to run this club in a professional way.
Sales Online Our Secretary Irene King is doing trojan work in organising our sales online network. Hoodies, t-shirts, polo shirts, manager’s jackets, rain wear etc... will all be available. It is hoped that much needed funds can be generated from this merchandise. Connemara R.F.C has support in many countries including Canada, France and the UK.
Tag Rugby Connemara R.F.C are hoping to organise a tag rugby tournament on Omey Beach next summer and to make it an annual outing. The Omey Beach is a magnificent and popular venue. Matt O’Sullivan, P.R.O. Connemara RFC
2010/2011 Fixtures October 2nd Connemara v City of Derry October 9th Banbridge v Connemara October 23rd Connemara v Greystones October 30th Navan v Connemara November 13th NUIM Barnhall v Connemara November 27th Connemara v Suttonians December 4th Naas v Connemara January 29th Connemara v Seapoint February 5th Connemara v Sunday’s Well February 12th Wanderers v Connemara February 19th Connemara v Rainey Old Boy’s February 26th Ards v Connemara March 26th Connemara v Nenagh Ormond April 2nd Instonians v Connemara April 16th Connemara v Highfield Fixtures courtesy of Irene King
August 2010
Connemara SportsView
Computers & IT
Lost Nokia 95 phone lost after Mass in Clifden on Sundy August 1st. Reward for finder. 087-696-4738.
Automotive D&N Auto Store. Full selection of oils for marine, motor and agriculture. Motor and tractor parts. Specialising in number plates: custom, legal and personalised for weddings, hens, birthdays etc. www.irishnumberplates. ie. Open Mon-Sat. New location on the Galway Road. 095-30615. 087-274-4165. info@irishnumberplates.ie.
Bike Rental Mannion’s Bikes. Bridge St, Clifden. 095-21160. Adult & children bikes (new & used), rentals, service and accessories. Mon-Sat 10am-6pm and Sun 10am-12pm.
Catering A la Carty Catering: For all your home catering needs contact Joe and Olive Carty. 095-22842. 087-260-5961. alacartycatering@gmail.com.
Childcare / Creche
theConnemaraDirectory
Education & Courses Shooting Lessons: From the complete novice to the most experienced gun with Shane Bisgood. Coaching for over 30 years in Ireland & the Americas. Call 086-279-5118 or email: shanebisgood@eircom.net. Art School in Roundstone. 10th-12th September. Drawing and painting in visual artist Rosie McGurran’s studio. Learn to draw and paint or improve your skills. Weekend’s tuition includes 10th September induction session at 6pm, introduction and walk and talk around the village exploring the visual arts heritage and history of Roundstone. Saturday: Full day tuition in still life drawing 10am-4pm. Sunday: Full day tuition in painting 10am-4pm. Fees €175 euro per person, includes light lunch. Limited places, contact 095-35076 or 087-679-9559. This is a unique opportunity to work in a professional artist’s studio and learn about the visual arts heritage of Roundstone. “Introduction to Dry Point Printmaking”. Four two-day courses offered over the summer by Margaret Irwin (Mo West). August 28th & 29th. September 4th & 5th. Duration: 10-1pm and 2-4pm each day. All materials included except paper for final editioning according to amount used. Cost for each course: €250 per person. Courses will take place in Claddaghduff. For details phone 095-44739 or email: margaretirwin@eircom.net.
August 2010
Martial Arts classes at the Connemara Judo Academy in the Clifden Town Hall on Saturdays. We cater for children from 7 to 14 yrs, youth and adults 15 to 60 yrs. Contact Paraic on 086-356-5590, or enrol for classes on Saturdays between 2pm and 4pm in the Clifden Town Hall. “Dusty Banjos” Trad session for beginners/improvers (adults). Learn tunes, play music with other people. Friendly relaxed atmosphere, slow pace. Suit all melody instruments. The Bens Music Shop, Clifden. Heather: 095-44845. Dusty Banjos session is on a summer break and will be back on September 21st. New faces welcome!
Employment & Opportunities Part-time Administrator required to work in Clifden Town Hall. CVs please to ARC Clifden Limited, Clifden Town Hall, Clifden, Co. Galway. Kings Paper Shop, Main St, Clifden requires a part-time Sales Assistant for a long term position. Must be flexible for all shifts. Some experience an advantage but not necessary as training will be provided. Please e-mail CV to Joan.king@hotmail.com
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Farming Livestock Haulage to Factories. Best quotes given per lb. for all types of cattle. €30 per animal. Call Kevin on 087-968-1950. Diamonds of Renvyle, 095-43486 Farm supplies - Animal feeds - Builders supplies – Free delivery throughout Connemara. Diamonds Equestrian Centre & Connemara Pony Farm, www.theconnemarapony.com Home of many prizewinning Connemara ponies. Ride the Renvyle Peninsula on horseback: beach, mountain & bog trails. Top Class Connemara ponies for sale. Get Henpecked! Coops & runs for your chickens. Visit our website at www.henpecked.ie or call Brian Casey in Cleggan on 087-249-8097 or 095-44924. Hay & Straw. Top quality. Square and round. Call Kevin on 087-968-1950.
Financial / Legal Recession Busting Review: Why not avail of our Free financial review to see if we can save you money on all your insurances. Then you will know for sure you are getting the best deal. Call Hennelly Finance on 091-586-500 or call Helena on 086-809-5607. Hennelly Financial Services Ltd. T/A Hennelly Finance is regulated by the Financial Regulator. Bookkeeping & Accounts service for self employed and small businesses. Very experienced financial administrator is available for all your bookkeeping requirements. VAT/ PAYE/PRSI returns, payroll, monthly accounts etc. Contact: Marian Herriott 087-647-8303. email: mherriott4@ gmail.com. Cashel-Connemara Credit Union. Clifden Office: 095-21101. Cashel Office 095-31128. Therese Thornton, Solicitor, Clifden, Co. Galway. Professional, comprehensive legal service at reasonable rates. Call 087-262-5385 or email ThereseThornton@gmail.com for advice or a quote with no obligation.
Information Services & Media
Pets, Animals & Ponies
Does your partner? Call you names, constantly criticise you? Control your access to money/phone/car etc? Monitor your time, threaten you and the children? If so you may be in an abusive relationship. For free, friendly, confidential advice and support call D.V.R. 091-866-740. Connemara AA. Tuesdays, Old School, Recess, 8.30 pm. Wednesdays, Clifden Day Centre, (behind the hospital) 8.30pm. Thursdays, Clifden Day Centre, 8.30pm. Fridays, Ellis Hall, Letterfrack, 9pm. Saturdays and Sundays, Clifden Day Centre 12 noon. Clifden Citizens Information Centre. Free and confidential service to the public. Galway Rd, Clifden. 095-22000. 087-130-1100. Thurs 7-8pm. Friday 10.30am- 3.30pm. Connemara Community Radio. Letterfrack. 095-41616. Connemara View Newspaper. Clifden. 095-22888. AWARE Depression Support Group meetings take place at the FORUM Office (upstairs), Ellis Hall, Letterfrack on the 1st Thursday of every month at 8pm. Contact Margaret 095-21741 afternoons except Tuesday for more details.
Connolly’s Boarding Cattery near Rossaveal. Open all year for long or short stays. Designed for the safety and comfort of cats following FAB guidelines. All cats must be vaccinated and males neutered. Tel. Maureen on 086-398-8179 or 091-572-000 or visit www.purr.ie. Going on vacation and not sure who to rely on for proper pet care? The Dog Walker can help! For more information about dog walking and dog sitting or if you have any queries, contact Marta at 087-297-0137 or martathedogwalker@gmail.com.
Items for Sale or Rent Connemara Bouncing Castles for hire for all occasions, supplied with rain covers, delivered, erected and collected. 095-21219. Black Lexus, 2001, IS200 SE for Sale, 96k, Bury Handfree Kit, NCT Nov 2011, Air Con, Tax end July, €5,000 ono, can be seen. Phone Terry 087-778-4856. 095-22824. 1998 VW Golf .Black 5-door. Good condition. NCT DEC 2011. €900 ono. 169,196 miles. Call Stephen on 086-191-9755. For sale: Diving equipment: 5mm neoprene dry suit in excellent condition for quick sale. Hood, gloves, thermals, two pairs of ankle weights all included in sale. Circa €600. 087-137-9695.
Local Books
Photography & DVD Services
New Book: Commemorating the 1916 Easter Rising ‘My Great Walk Across Ireland’ by Daniel Sammon. www. walkacrossireland.com. 095-43492 or 087-260-2717. Second edition of ‘Recipes from the Connemara Loop’ . The book contains stunning pictures & makes a very affordable gift or keepsake. €2.95. Available from outlets along the Connemara Loop. Order on-line from www. goconnemara.com. All proceeds from the sale of this book are invested back into the Connemara Loop.
Video Vault. Main St, Clifden. 095-22033. VHS to DVD transfer. Disc repair: 5 discs repaired for €10. Photos restored, rescued & reprinted. Have your photos digitally scanned, burned to CD, ready for print. Open 7 days until late.
Marine Home Furnishings & Electronics Broderick’s Electrical Centres. For the BIGGEST selection of electrical appliances and LCD TVs in the West. Lodge Road, Westport 098-28130. Moneen, Castlebar. 094-904-4735. Free Delivery to anywhere in Connemara. Teach & Baile Furniture. 087-280-3563. “Quality everyday furniture at great prices” Enjoy your summer in Connemara sitting on one of our outdoor garden benches starting at €60. See our summer sizzlers. Memory foam mattresses 3’€135, 4’6” €180. Whistlestop “Gifts & Interiors”. Station House Courtyard. 095-21532. 086-230-4210. whistlestop@eircom.net www.whistlestop.ie. Design-led home accessories at affordable prices. Lamps, mirrors, throws, glassware sourced world-wide. Baby gifts including award winning Organics for Kids babygros and an eclectic range of jewellery & silverware. Wedding list & personal shopping source available.
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Office Supplies & Photocopying Video Vault, Main Street, 095-22033. More than just movies. A4 and A3 colour photocopying. Internet access, VHS / camcorder transfer to DVD, faxing, laminating and disc repair. Open 7 days until late. King’s Paper Shop. Main St, Clifden. 095-21119. A4 and A3 colour photocopying. Faxing. Laminating. Extensive selection of office supplies.
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theConnemaraDirectory
Photography & DVD Services
Quads Galway Quads. Quads, buggies, repairs, servicing, accessories. Boley, East Barna. Contact Keith Trill on 087-988-6514. www.galwayquads.com.
Restorations Church-Castle and Monument. Architectural and ecclesiastical restoration and conservation. Our service: statues repair and repainting. Marble altar works. Stained glass windows. Outdoor statues. Towerbells and clocks. Fountains. Crypts. Church furniture. Stations of the Cross. Vestments. Chalices and monstrances. Grotto statues. Also sandblasting and metal engineering works etc. Purchasing-Statue showroom. Michele Thierbach G.R.A.D. www.ars-ecclesia.com. 091-556-735.
Trade Supplies & Services Alternative Energy & Plumbing Airflow Renewable Energy Solutions, Ballybrit, Galway. 091-764-761.www.airflowireland.ie. Daikin air to water heat pumps. Ground source geothermal heat pumps. IVT heat recovery ventilation. Solar panels. System design & project support. Domestic & commercial. SEAI approved. Cut your oil bill by two-thirds with solar powered water heating. Call Michael Carey for a free no obligation quote. Testimonials from satisfied customers available. SEAI grants available. Carey Solar Powered Systems. Sky Rd. Clifden. 086-603-9299. www.careysolar.com.
Signs Traditional Irish sign writing by ‘Studio Nicholas Connemara’. Moycullen-Tullokyne. www.studio-michele. com. www.nicholas-antiques.com. 091-556-735. 087-220-3898.
Taxi Service
Building Contractors
Properties 1 Bedroom flat to rent. 2 miles from Clifden town centre. Available end of August. Please call 087-653-9184 for more details. For Rent: 2 & 3 bedroom apartments and rooms to let, 5 minutes walk from Clifden town centre, fully furnished. 095-44924 or 087-249-8097. Large cottage unfurnished Rosleague, Letterfrack: long let. 2 double 1 single bedrooms, bathroom, large sitting room & kitchen (cooker & wood burner), utility (washer, dryer & fridge freezer). Garden. Would suit professionals or mature student. Contact lucia.smith@btconnect.com.
Tyres Omey Tyres. Connemara’s 1st complete mobile tyre fitting centre. Recession Beater: Wholesale prices on new tyres. Best prices guaranteed. 24 Hour - 7 Days. Service throughout Connemara. Now stocking wipers, bulbs, batteries and oil. Contact Daniel Ryan on 095-44979 / 086831-3462 or omeytyres@hotmail.com.
TV/Satellite/Broadband The National Broadband scheme is rolling out in your area soon, for more info contact Frank 083-408-2480. Free to to air satellite service from Harrington Electrical Connemara. Full standard installation with box and dish €160. Hundreds of free to air channels. Call Paul on 087-144-1118. Wireless broadband. Aerial and satellite installation and repair. Peter Keane, Clifden. 095-21827. 087-668-7468.
Websites
Carpentry Newman Carpentry Services. All carpentry work undertaken by experienced tradesman. Fitted doors, kitchens, stairs, decking, built in wardrobes, PVC fascia and soffit, wooden floors, 2nd fixing and general maintenance. Competitive rates – Display units made to order. Contact Paddy Newman on 086-316-5978 or 095-44931.
Gardening & Landscaping Neighbourhood Gardening. Lawns mowed. Tidy beds and borders. Hoeing and weeding. Hedge planting and clipping. Lawns raked and seeded. Tree holes dug. Light pruning duties. Garden labour assist. Kerbing around lawn. Sleepers laid. Base for garden sheds. Compost areas created. Raised bed built. Fence posts replaced. Broken paving fixed. Stone pointing. Servicing all of Connemara. Contact Peter 087147-3308. NeighbourhoodGardening@gmail.com. Tree pruning, crown reductions, crown thinning, deadwood removal, tree removal, hedge cutting & chipping, est 1998. Alan Linnane. West Coast Tree Surgery. 086-284-8340.
Gates Book now for your Building Energy Rating certificate. If you are buying or renting a new house or apartment now, you are entitled to a BER. Carried out by specially trained BER assessors, registered by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI). Call Sinead at Matt O’Sullivan Estate Agents on 095-21066 or e-mail property@mattosullivan.com www. mattosullivan.com. Listing properties for long term rental. Selling your house, renting long-term or applying for SEAI Grants? Then you must have a Building Energy Rating. Contact Oliver Coyne today! 095-35813. 086-238-4195. olivercoyne@gmail.com. Listed on the SEAI Register of BER assessors.
Public Notices Councillor Eilleen Mannion. August clinic times available by appointment. 087-955-5645.
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Website Design: Creative, professional and affordable websites by Cuán Mara Design, Letterfrack. To view portfolio visit www.cuanmaradesign.com. Phone Caroline Herriott on 086-079-1918 or email caroline@cuanmaradesign.com. Two Dog Computer & Business Solutions. Bridge St. 09522194. 086-404-3125. Website design & development.
Wedding Services
Connacht Gates Moycullen. Manufacturer of wrought iron gates domestic and commercial. Side gate, railings, balconies, stainless steel handrails, glass balustrades, customised stairs, fire escapes. Registered contractor. 091-868-803. 087-261-6947. Email: conncoatfab@eircom.net.
Gutters Connemara Seamless Gutters. Suppliers of roof line cladding and guttering systems. Over 17 years experience. Aluminum, UPvc. Wide range of colours. Free quotations. 095-41180. Gerry: 086-103-1053. Peter: 085-760-4130. Gannon Gutters. Ivan Gannon. Roscahill. 087-777-0903.
Vintage and modern cars available for weddings, social or corporate travel and airport transfers. Our rare and unique cars are fully PSV licensed and insured. Special midweek rates. Visit our website or call us on 091-506-896 or 087-990-2294. www.getawaylimos.com. Wedding Videography by Pat Coyne. Professional, friendly service. Two camera operators digitally capture your big day while blending into the background. Portfolio and references available. Package includes 4 copies of the edited video. Packages to suit every budget. Renvyle. 09543756. 086-406-2394. email: fiddisco@mac.com www. fiddisco.com.
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Trade Supplies & Services continued Insulation West Coast Insulation. Your local cavity wall and attic insulation specialists. Eco bead Platinum. The ONLY SEAI Grant Approved Installer in Connemara. Call us on 087142-1414. Patrick & John Folan, Letterfrack. westcoastinsulations@gmail.com.
Painting Painting and Decorating: Interior and exterior, timber floors sanded and varnished. Neat and tidy job guaranteed. Also offering garden and lawn maintenance service. Competitive rates. References available. Contact Johnny Coyne, Renvyle, 086-857-0302.
Plant Hire Noel Connolly Plant Hire. Site work & land drainage. Top quality graded topsoil. Large volume of material available at €70 per load. Prices on extensions and renovations. Keenest prices around. C2 Reg. 095-23781. 086-247-6610.
Plastering & Tiling Tiler specialising in all types of floors & walls; Ceramic, mosaic, marble, terracotta, porcelain, slate, paving. Call for FREE quote & advice. Commercial & residential. Competitive rates, professional throughout. Paul Davis. Tel: 095-23803 Mob: 085-110-3035.
Sand, Gravel & Stone Stonetech, Clifden. Call Seamus on 087-668-7437. The Original bagged sand supplier. Soft & sharp sand, washed gravel & decorative chippings, Bark mulch. Corbett Stone. Natural Connemara building stone. 09521744. 086-247-5619. www.corbettstone.com. Cut stone by the bag or hand picked at rock bottom prices. Any quantity. Flag stones for paving. Unusual shaped stones for your garden. Good quality topsoil by the truck load or 1 ton bags. Delivered promptly. Our prices won’t be beaten. Washed and graded sand and gravel. Decorative stone chippings in a variety of colours for pathways, driveways and patios. Choice gardener’s bark mulch. Free delivery. Headstones. Surrounds, cleaning, inscriptions. Mongan’s Stonecraft. Derryinver, Letterfrack. 095-43473. 087-130-7752. 086-199-1988.
Windows
Next Issue: Thursday, September 2nd
Ad Space Reservation Deadline: August 21st News Deadline: August 25th Directory Classified Deadline: August 25th
095-22888 www.connemaraview.com Page 20
Arts & Antiques
Connemara ArtLink is an online gallery showing work by local artists and crafts people. To visit the website go to www.connemaraartlink.com. Details of exhibitions and events available on the Connemara ArtLink Facebook page. Email: connemaraartlink@gmail.com. Proprietor Noreen Allen welcomes you all to her fabulous Clifden Antique Shop & Irish Art Gallery in the Station House Courtyard. Specialising in 18th & 19th Century Furniture etc. Antiques are the oldest ‘Green’ in the business, you can enjoy beautiful pieces of Georgian furniture whilst knowing you have made a good investment. Paintings from names such as Cecil Maguire, Kenneth Webb, Maurice Wilkes. 095-22230. Prendergast Antiques. Lower Market St., Clifden. For that unique gift or special piece for your home why not peruse our extensive collection of antique furniture, silver, ceramics, collectibles, antique and reproduction glassware, prints, mirrors. Best prices, 32 county delivery, worldwide shipping, trade welcome. www.clifden.biz. Phone 087-629-6195 anytime. Roundstone Ceramics. Michael Killeen Park. Open daily 10am-5pm. We make a wide range of functional stoneware and unique hand decorated porcelain. We also make porcelain jewellery, all sold exclusively from our workshop. We welcome individual orders for commemorative pieces, house signs & original commissions. 095-35874. roundstonepottery@eircom.net.
Fashion & Gifts
Belle Blu. Market Street. Clifden. 095-21321. sales@belleblu.com. 2 for €20 Mineral Makeup offer, select a Mineral shadow and mascara for only €20. Opening hours MonSat 11-6, Sundays 1-4. Join us on Facebook at “Belle Blu” for coupons and offers and remember you can always shop online at www.belleblu.com. Brats of All Ages. Market Street, Clifden. Games Workshop agents, childrens clothing – Ben 10, Hannah Montana, Dora the Explorer, Spiderman plus much more. Beach wear, inflatables from €5, toys and accessories, sun hats, ponchos and wellingtons! 095-22952. The Clifden Bookshop, Main St, Clifden. Stockists of a wide selection of maps, walking books, guides, memoirs, local histories and an extensive range of latest titles, art materials, cards & stationery. Find that hidden gem that will make your visit so memorable. theclifdenbookshop@ eircom.net. 095-22020. Mon-Sat 9.30-8pm. Sun 11-7pm. The Connemara Pony Company. Market St, Clifden. Exclusive Connemara Pony Ireland clothing. Everything for the pony and rider. Baby and childrens clothing. Feed, wormers, tack, and riding wear. Embroidery service for clubs, restaurants etc. or personalize your gifts. No order too large or small. 095-30779 or 085-771-6322. Info@ theconnemaraponycompany.com. Cottage Handcrafts. Moyard. 095-41029. Wrap yourself up in traditional yet contemporary knitwear and jewelry collections, inspired by the local landscape, with a variety of subtle styles, textures and colours that reflect the everchanging seasons. Gifts by Grace. Courthouse Square, Clifden. 095-22101. New: Tractor Ted DVDs and books, baby ‘s World Cuddle Laps, sleeping bags, music mobiles, rattles and bedroom accessories. Lots of new kiddies gifts, great for birthday’s. New: LIR birthday, wedding and anniversary Champagne flutes and candleholders with candles. See all our special offers instore. Hehirs Woollen Store & Design Studio. Market Street, Clifden. Now stocking new Autumn collections- exciting new ranges: Peruzzi, Steilmann, YaYa & welcoming new range One O One, catering up to size 24. Wearable fashion & footwear at affordable prices- all you need for Winter now in stock! Check out Facebook “Hehirs, Clifden”! Call in for a look. You never know what you might find! Open 7 days a week until 8pm. 095-21282. Homeware Plus. The Square, Clifden. 095-21348. Everything at discount prices!! Homewares, gardening supplies, games, toys and now in stock all you need for a fun day at
August 2010
the beach. Gach rud ar phraghas iontach, taobh le SuperValu. King’s Paper Shop. Main St, Clifden and a new store in the Station House Courtyard. Newspapers, magazines, lotto, greeting cards, postcards, stamps, toys, sweets, ice cream, gifts … and more! Contact 095-21119. La Femme Bleue. The Square, Clifden. 086-129-5548. Jtmchantal@hotmail.com. Fill up your summer wardrobe with our fabulous and unique felt and silk coats, jackets, flower, poppet, broche. Special occasions shawls, scarves, bags, jewellery, accessories, original gifts for everyone. Ní Ráighne Opticians. Bridge Street. Offers an extensive range of designer sunglasses, optical products and services. Stockists of high quality fashion eyewear. Prices to suit everyone! Special offers in store. 095-30995. niraighneopticians@eircom.net Ohh! By Gum. Nestled in the Water Tower of the Station House Courtyard is a real treasure trove. Hand knitted baby clothes, woo organic childrenswear to ethically made clothing for women with a fashion conscience. Many locally made creations and collections from afar. Check out our sweetie corner and give yourself a treat! 095-21334. Stanley’s. Market Street, Clifden. FitFlop, Geox, Ecco, Keen, Timberland, Riker, Brasher, Dubarry, Saint James, Armourlux, Lyle & Scott, Tivoli, Carraig Donn, Aran knitwear from €29, Rugby jerseys €29.95, Paramo, Berghaus, Aigle, Helly Hansen, Columbia, Barbour, Puddlehunters, Magee, Robbie, Mustang, Wrangle, Baleys. Fishing tackle including Grays/Hardy, all in one shop plus so much more. Whistlestop “Gifts & Interiors”. Clifden Station House Courtyard. 095-21532. 086-230-4210. whistlestop@ eircom.net www.whistlestop.ie. Design-led home accessories at affordable prices. Lamps, mirrors, throws, glassware sourced world-wide. Baby gifts including award winning Organics for Kids babygros and an eclectic range of jewellery & silverware. Wedding list & personal shopping source available.
Food, Flowers & Wine
An Bhean Feasa Health Store. Market Street, Clifden. Organic wholefoods, nutritional supplements, herbs, natural remedies, organic face and body care. Clinics in kinesiology, acupuncture, Bowen Therapy and massage. professional, confidential and expert service in both shop and therapy centre. 095-30671. Clifden Fruit & Veg. Main Street, Clifden. 086-836-5864. Full selection of fruit and vegetable at great prices. Now selling an extensive range of animal feeds. Connemara Florist. Main Street, Clifden. Fresh flowers for all occasions: birthdays, anniversaries, births, funerals and weddings. Great gift ideas - whatever your budget! Delivery throughout Connemara. All budgets catered for! Monday -Saturday 10am-5.30pm. Contact 095-21565 or see www.connemaraflorist.net. Connemara Hamper. Lower Market Street, Clifden. Large selection of Irish and European farmhouse cheeses. Organic wines, fruit and vegetables. Freshly baked breads and baguettes. Gourmet lunches and Illy coffee to go. Open all year. Mon-Sat 10-5pm. 095-21054. Des Moran Family Butchers. Main Street, Clifden. 095-21232. Home of the national award winning sausages, white pudding and black pudding. Catering to all of your meat and poultry needs. Duanes Fish Shop. Main Street, Clifden. 095-21804. Large variety of locally caught fresh fish and shell fish. Fresh crab. Live lobster. Fresh oysters. Connemara Smokehouse smoked products. Having a BBQ try our tuna steaks, prawn skewers, crab claws, scallops and salmon steaks. Tues-Sat 10-6. Mon 12-6. Special offers daily! Jagur Organic. Get your organic fruit and vegetables from your local organic grower. Our produce is available in the Countryshop Letterfrack, Connemara Hamper and Duanes Fishmonger in Clifden. Look for our stall at the Clifden Market on Fridays. 095-44855. SuperValu. The Square, Clifden. 095-21182. Opening hours: Monday-Thursday/Saturday 8am-9pm. Friday 8am-10pm. Sunday & Bank Holidays 9am-7pm.
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Beauty
Anna’s Nail Bar & Tanning Salon. Bridge St., Clifden. 095-30001. Summer Glow offer: Mini-manicure, Minipedicure and full body spray tan ONLY €75. Get bikini ready! Vibroplate – One hour workout in 10 minutes just €5. Wow Brown Full Body Spray Tan €30. Now available: Good-bye nicks, chips and smudges… Hello Shellac! UV colour coat that lasts at least 2 weeks ! Only €30. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10-5pm. Late evenings by appointment. Hair Gallery. Bridge St. 095-21901. Monday to Saturday 10 – 6. Late night Thursday and Friday by Appointment only. Now available the ‘The Brazilian Blowout’ – This celebrity favoured treatment gives the effect of a “permanent blowdry” and tames softens and smoothes even the frizziest locks! Call in for a free style consultation. Don’t gamble on your hair. Ring Hedz at the Station House Courtyard on 095-22202 and you’ll pick a winner every time. The stylists are Damian, Andrea, Margaret & Junior Stylist Ashline. See www.hedz.ie. Grand opening of the ‘Clifden Hedz Academy’ August 20th at 6pm. The Treatment Rooms at Abbeyglen Castle, Sky Road. Offering hot stone massage, indian head massage, reflexology, Zen spa pedicure/manicure, waxing and California tanning. Summer specials: 15% off all treatments every Wednesday, Shellac ‘The two week manicure’ – Special Offer €30 and Yonka Facial plus free starter pack €65. Open 9-6 Monday to Saturday. Sunday 12 – 5. Non residents welcome. For appointments call 095-21306.
Cancer Care Clifden Outreach Service by Cancer Care West at the Clifden Health Centre opposite Clifden Hospital on the 4th Thursday of every month. Drop-in, information and support service. 091-545-000. www.cancercarewest.ie.
Dental
MPT. Sports, Deep tissue & relaxation massage, dry needling, physical therapy. Change sensations in your body. 087-125-2578. Clifden Holistic Centre. Kinesiology, food testing, acupuncture, Bowen Therapy, massage and hypnotherapy at An Bhean Fheasa Health Shop, Lr Market St, Clifden.095-30671. Open Mon-Sat 10-5 p.m. Connemara Seaweed Baths Leenane. Set at the waters edge overlooking Killary harbour in the picturesque village of Leenane, here you will find a tranquil setting with candlelight and soft music to take your stress away. Relax in the only saltwater seaweed baths in Connemara. Open Daily 11-8pm. Contact 095-42408. Reiki / Seichem. Experience the calm & healing energies of this beautiful treatment, which is drug free & non-invasive. These powerful energies can heal one on the mental, emotional, spiritual & physical levels. Qualified Reiki / Seichem Master & Practitioner. Call Yvonne for appointment. 086-365-3266.
Counselling Counselling and psychotherapy. Úna McKeever M.Sc., M.I.A.H.I.P., M.I.A.C.P. is a fully accredited Psychotherapist/Counsellor who offers private and confidential counselling. For an appointment call 087-250-5015. email: unamckeever21@gmail.com. Psychotherapy and counselling, Diploma in Psychotherapy. For further enquires or appointments. Contact Monica Lydon on 087-641-1625. monicalydon@hotmail.com.
Fitness Martial art classes at the Connemara Judo Academy in the Clifden Town Hall on Saturdays, we cater for children from 7yrs to 14yrs, youth and adults 15yrs to 60 yrs, contact Paraic on 086-356-5590, or enrol for classes on Saturdays between 2pm and 4pm in the Clifden Town Hall. Clifden Station House Leisure Centre. 095-30433. leisure@ clifdenstationhouse.com. Fitness classes, swimming lessons, Aqua aerobics, circuit training, Pilates, personal training.
Health Insurance Why pay more than you have to for your health insurance? No penalties if you switch. All served waiting periods are recognised by Hibernian Aviva Health. Call Hennelly Finance on 091-586-500 or call Helena on 086-809-5607. Hennelly Financial Services Ltd. T/A Hennelly Finance is regulated by the Financial Regulator.
Opticians
Complementary Health Bio Energy Healing. Physical, mental & emotional dis-ease shows up as resistance in our energy field. Bio Energy Healing helps re-establish your own natural healing process through releasing energy blockages in and around the body. Four day treatment €200 in Moycullen or Clifden. Contact Jason 085-770-7237 or jason@dreaminglove.net Acupuncture Clinic. Maara Mulgrew Lic Ac. Gentle treatment for all types of pain, boosts immune system & reduces stress. Wide range of conditions treated. Ciúin Health & Beauty, Bridge St, Clifden. 087-970-1648. www.acupunctureclinic.ie “Relax with Uncertainty” 5 Rhythms Movement Meditation Practice with Caitriona Nic Ghiollaphádraig. Take a day out to relax, de-stress and learn to manage uncertainty. A day of movement, good food and a beautiful venue. Sunday 17th October. Tranquillity Room, Kylemore Pass Hotel. €65 including lunch. Send a deposit of €30 to Deora Dé, Finisglen, Recess, Connemara, Co. Galway. 095-34664. info@deorade.com. www.deorade.com Damien Stoney. Neuromuscular Therapist AN-
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August 5th: James Morrissey, author of book ‘On the verge of want’. Slideshow and talk about the lives of the people in the west of Ireland in the early 1890s. Claddaghduff Hall. 8pm. 5th: Art Exhibition with cheese & wine reception. Local artists. Sweeney’s, Claddaghduff . 9.30pm. 6th: 3-Ball Scramble at Ballyconneely Golf Club 5pm. BBQ and presentation of trophies at Oliver’s bar. 6th: Celebrating Granuaile. Ballyconeely Community Hall. Talk by Anne Chambers at 6pm followed by play. Fun disco 7.30-9pm with prizes for best pirate outfit! 6th to 8th: Clifden Regatta. Details page 14. 6th: The Fureys & Davey Arthur. Station House Theatre. €25. 9pm. 7th: Annual Car Wash at Clifden Fire Station. 12-4pm. 7th: Auction in the Shamrock Bar, Roundstone. 8pm. Fundraiser for the Roundstone St Patrick’s Day Parade 2011. 7th: Peter Lydon Memorial Trophy. Omey Strand. 12pm.Presentation at the Country Music Hoe Down in the Pier Bar. 7th: Claddaghduff traditional tug-of-war competition. Male and female. 4pm. 7th: Talk by BBC’s Monty Hall. Roundstone Community Hall. €5. 5pm. 8th: Pig Fest 2010. Lots of family events. Contact Sean Nee on 087-664-2853. In aid of the Ballyconneely playground and sports field. 8th: Claddaghduff Pony Show. Come along and see a selection of beautiful ponies, home crafts, dog show and lots more. 087-676-8584. erriswhiterock@hotmail.com. 9th to 13th: Clifden GAA Hurling Camp. 10am-2pm. One week for €10. Contact Ann Mitchell on 086-172-8954. 9th to 13th: Annual Ceol na Locha Music Festival, Coláiste Mhuire Tourmakeady. 087-744-3531 or 094-954-4163 after 5pm. www.ceolnalocha.com. 10th: The Letterfrack Citizen’s Information service will be available at Connemara West (Portacabin 4) 1.30-4.30pm. 087-130-1100 or 095-22000. www.citizensinformation.ie. 11th: Clifden Comhltas. Claddaghduff Hall. 9pm. 12th: Connemara guided beach walk. Dumhach, Inishbofin. 12.30pm. Led by Dr. Dave McGrath. 091-509-174. www. galway.ie or asmurphy@galwaycoco.ie. 12th to 15th: The Roundstone Summerfest Weekend. www. roundstone-summerfest.com. 13th: The Clifden Connemara Pony Show Queen 2010. Station House Hotel. 8pm. Adults €5, family €10, children €2 (proceeds in aid of the Clifden Playground group). 13th: ‘Oh Me Oh My’! The Official Joe Dolan Tribute Show.
The Connemara Gateway Hotel, Oughterard. www.joedolan.com. 091-552328. 14th: Connemara guided beach walk. Dog’s Bay, Roundstone. 1.30pm. Led by Dr. Noirin Burke. 091-509-174. www.galway.ie or asmurphy@galwaycoco.ie. 14th: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs by The Lambert Puppet Theatre, Ballyconneely Community Hall. In aid of Ballyconneely Pony Show. €10 per child (accompanying adult free). 3pm. 14th: Scrap Saturday: GAA Fundraiser, Corribdale car park, Oughterard. All unwanted metal. 087-266-3048. Details page 12. 14th: Connemara 100. 091-565-154. info@connemarathon. com. www.connemara100.com. 15th: Connemara guided beach walk. Trá an Dóilín, An Cheathru Rua. 2.30pm. Led by Marine Biologist J.P. Tiernan. 091-509-174. www.galway.ie or asmurphy@galwaycoco.ie. 15th: Watersports Day. Glassilaun Beach, Renvyle. 095-41024. 15th: A Day of Fairy Magic. Brigit’s Garden, Roscahill. Young elves and fairies are invited to dress up and join a special day of fairy fun. 091-550-905 or see www.brigitsgarden.ie. Adults: €7.50, child: €7, family ticket(5): €28. 15th: Crystal Swing. Station House Theatre. €25. 9pm. 16th to 22nd: Connemara Pony Breeders Society presents the Festival of the Connemara Pony & The Clifden Connemara Pony Show. 095-21863. 095-21851. enquiries@ cpbs.ie. www.cpbs.ie. Details page 13. Events include: 16th: Seminar and CPBS herd viewing at Connemara National Park. 3pm. 17th: International Breeder’s AGM, Seminar and reception at Abbeyglen Castle Hotel. 18th: Loose Jumping Championships. 2pm. 19th:The Clifden Pony Show 2010, Dog Show, Domestic Arts & Irish dancing. 8:30am. 20th: Pony Performance Show. Working Hunter, Dressage, Puissance and Parade of Champions. 10am. 16th to 20th: West Coast United Summer Soccer Camps. Joachim Lydon. 086-409-8814. www.fai.ie. 16th to 20th: Rugby Summer Camp with Peter Bracken. Connemara RFC. Closing date for registration Friday August 13th. 086-056-6806. www.thescrumdoctor.com. 20th: Launch of ‘Clifden Hedz Academy’. 6pm. 20th: Launch of ‘Side by Side’, new album from Liz & Yvonne Keane. Molly’s Bar, Letterfrack. More information: www.thekanesisters.com 21st: Martin Hayes & Dennis Cahill. Church of Ireland. 8pm. €20. boxoffice@clifdenartsweek.ie. 21st to 22nd: Connemara Pony Sales. Clifden Mart.
21st to 29th: Heritage Week. See listings on next page. 21st: Gaelforce West. 095-42006. info@gaelforcewest.ie. 22nd: Clifden Trout Anglers Annual Charity Family Fishing Competition at Derrylea Lake. 1-5pm. Details page 15. 24th: The Letterfrack Citizen’s Information service will be available at Connemara West (Portacabin 4) 1.30-4.30pm. 087-130-1100 or 095-22000. www.citizensinformation.ie. 27th: Connemara guided beach walk. East End, Inishbofin. 12.30pm. Led by Dr. Dave McGrath. 091-509-174. www. galway.ie or asmurphy@galwaycoco.ie. 28th to 29th : 48th Oughterard (Agricultural) Show. 086-151-7289.www.oughterardshow.com. Details page 13. 28th: The Connemara Rough Diamond Event. ‘Adventure Racing with a Twist’ www.connemararoughdiamond.com. Details page 11.
29th: Roundstone Community Games. 095-35044. destacpoole@eircom.net. www.roundstone.ie.
September
10th to 12th: Art School with artist Rosie McGurran, Roundstone. 095-35076 or 087-679-9559. 12th: All-Ireland Supreme Champion of Champions Connemara Pony Show. Contact Paddy ‘Yank’ McDonagh 095-35833, 086-346-9372 or paddyyank@yahoo.com. www.roundstoneevents.com. 16th to 26th: Clifden Arts Festival 2010. www.clifdenartsweek.ie. 18th: Roundstone Registered Connemara Pony Fair. Contact Paddy ‘Yank’ McDonagh 095-35833, 086-346-9372 or paddyyank@yahoo.com. www.roundstoneevents.com. 24th: Culture Night including fashion show. Clann, Oughterard. Contact Maria on 091-557-633. 25th to 26th: Leenane Food Festival. Leenane village. www. leenanevillage.com or contact Leenane Development at 095-42017.
Activities
Glendalough 18 hole Pitch and Putt. Recess. Enjoy a family outing to the Pitch and Putt suitable for all ages. Clubs and balls supplied. Located just off N59, (1km west of Joyces shop). For details contact 095-34669 or email glendalough08@gmail.com. Pony Trekking at Errislannan Manor. 095-21134. See Ad next page Cleggan Beach Riding. 095-44746. See Ad next page Killary Adventure Centre. 095-43411. 095-42276. See Ad next page
Weekly Events Mondays All-Ireland Champion Marie Walsh presents ‘Trad in the West’. Featuring a host of Ireland’s finest musicians and performers including All-Ireland Sean Nos Dancer Emma O’Sullivan. Station House Theatre. 9pm. €10.
Tuesdays J.M. Synge’s stage play The Aran Islands, staged by Connemara dramatists Sean Coyne and Tegolin Knowland. Station House Theatre. Tickets: €10. 9.30pm. Irish Music sessions at the Teach Ceoil. Tully, Renvyle. Until 31st August. 9pm. Irish Nights, Dolphin Hotel, Inishbofin. Every Tuesday in August. 9.30pm.
Tuesdays & Thursdays Irish Nights at Clifden Town Hall. 9pm. Childrens activities at Connemara National Park, 11am.
Wednesdays Kids Magic Variety Show by Ed Masters. Every Wednesday afternoon for August. Tickets: €10. 5pm. Irish Nights at Roundstone Community Hall. 8.30pm10pm. Until 25th August. 095-35865. Until August 18th: Derek Warfield & the Young Wolfe Tones. Alcock & Brown Hotel. 095-21880. Bond Movie Nights. Watch a James Bond movie at the Station House Theatre Cinema for August. €5. 9pm. continued on next page
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August 2010
theConnemaraDirectory
On the last week of August, National Heritage Week celebrates its 20th anniversary. A superb selection of events are running from the 21st – 29th August. It is a great excuse for local communities to showcase their natural and cultural heritage and many events are free of charge! For more information go to www. heritageweek.ie, phone 1850-200-878 or email events@heritagecouncil.ie. 21st: Flag making workshop. 11am (materials supplied, booking essential). Connemara National Park, Letterfrack. 095-41323 or siobhan.geoghegan@environ.ie. 21st: Wildlife Garden Talk. 3-4pm. Connemara National Park, Letterfrack. 095-41323 or siobhan.geoghegan@ environ.ie. 21st: Medieval Madness. Aughnanure Castle, Oughterard, 12-5.30pm. Medieval Tournament bringing history to life. 091-552-214 or aughnanurecastle@opw.ie. 21st to 29th: The ‘Discovery Box’. The Sheep and Wool Centre, Leenane. 10-6pm. Exploring wool crafts and sheep facts through the ‘discovery box’. 095-42323 or leenane@eircom.net. 21st to 29th: Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden. Kylemore. Discover the history of Kylemore. Adults €12, seniors €9, students €8, family day pass €32 (under 12yrs
Weekly Events
continued
Thursdays Adrian Knight, Comedy Hypnotist. Throughout August at the Station House Theatre. €20. 9pm.
Thursdays & Sundays Sheep Shearing Demonstrations. Throughout August in the Sheep & Wool Centre, Leenane. 10-4pm. A rare opportunity to see the traditional technique of hand - shearing sheep. Watch the wool being carded and spun into yarn! 095-42323.
Sundays Sizzling Summer BBQ’s in The Station House Courtyard, Noon-5pm. Complimentary face painting for kids.
Daily Kids drama workshops at the Station House Theatre. Monday-Friday 2pm and kids movies daily at 3pm (except Wednesdays). Connemara National Park. Visitor Centre open daily 9am to 5:30pm. 095-41054. See how a bodhran is made at Roundstone Musical Instruments, daily talks and displays take place at the craft Centre in Roundstone village. www.bodhran.com.
theConnemaraDirectory
free entry). 095-41463 or brid@kylemoretourism.ie. 21st to 29th: Window on The Past. Clifden Town. Local history display designed to make visitors and locals aware of the rich history of Clifden. 095-21148 or breandanoscanaill@eircom.net. 21st to 28th: Talk & demonstration: Spinning On The ‘Big Wheel’. Sheep & Wool Centre, Leenane. 2-3pm. Join Orla O’Toole for a talk and demonstration. 095-42323 or leenane@eircom.net. 22nd: Feltmaking workshop for children. Sheep & Wool Centre, Leenane. 12-4pm. Fun feltmaking workshop with textile artist Deirdre Duffy. Children accompanied. 09542323 or leenane@eircom.net. 22nd: Bug Day. Brigit’s Garden, Roscahill. 2-5pm. For all things Bugs!! A fun day for children of all ages: Adult €7.50, child €5, concession €6 and family €22. 091-550905 or info@brigitsgarden.ie. 22nd: Bat & Bird Box workshop. Noon. Connemara National Park, Letterfrack. 11am. 095-41323 or siobhan. geoghegan@environ.ie. 22nd: Intergenerational Group with a demonstration of local traditional skills. 12-2pm. Connemara National Park, Letterfrack. 095-41323 or siobhan.geoghegan@environ.ie. 23rd: Guided Nature Walk. 11am. Connemara National Park, Letterfrack. 095-41323 or siobhan.geoghegan@ environ.ie. 23rd to 27th: History & Management of Connemara Ponies. Connemara National Park, Letterfrack. 2-4pm. Learn about the history and management of these wonderful ponies. 095-41323 or siobhan.geoghegan@environ. ie. 23rd: Sheep Hill Walk. Sheep and Wool Centre, Leenane 12- 2pm. Guided walk to learn about hill sheep farming in the local area. Limited places. 095-42323 or leenane@ eircom.net. 24th & 26th: Fun With Nature For Kids. Connemara National Park, Letterfrack. 11-12.30pm. Learn about nature through practical work and arts and crafts. Children must be accompanied. 095-41323 or siobhan.geoghegan@environ.ie. 25th: Wild Colours: Natural plant dyeing workshop. Sheep & Wool Centre, Leenane. Learn about natural dyeing in this workshop with Patricia Kirwan Doyle. 11- 1pm & 2.30-4.30pm. Spaces limited. Age 12yrs+. €5. 095-42323 or leenane@eircom.net. 25th: Talk “Birds of Connemara”. Connemara National Park, Letterfrack. 8pm. 095-41323 or siobhan.geoghegan@environ.ie. 25th & 27th: Guided walk of Connemara National Park. 11–1pm. Learn about the flora and fauna of the bogland. Suitable clothing and footwear advised. 095-41323 or siobhan.geoghegan@environ.ie. 26th: Tracing Your Galway Ancestors. Oughterard VEC, Camp Street, Oughterard. 8-9pm. Presentation and dis-
August 2010
cussion. 091-860-464 or galwaywestroots@eircom.net. 27th: Guided nature walk. 11am. Connemara National Park, Letterfrack. 8pm. 095-41323 or siobhan.geoghegan@environ.ie. 27th: Frame weaving workshop. Sheep & Wool Centre, Leenane. Workshop with Patricia Kirwan. 11- 1pm; 2.30-4.30pm. Spaces limited. Age 7+. €5. 095-42323 or leenane@eircom.net. 28th: Flag making workshop. 11am (materials supplied, booking essential). Connemara National Park, Letterfrack. 095-41323 or siobhan.geoghegan@environ.ie. 28th: Wildlife garden talk. 3-4pm. Connemara National Park, Letterfrack. 095-41323 or siobhan.geoghegan@ environ.ie. 28th: Maam Heritage Day. Ionad Pobail an Mháma (Community Centre), Maam. 11–6pm. Art exhibition and traditional skills workshop. Followed by Traditional Irish music. 091-571-108 or anita.hanley@hotmail.com. 28th: Sean nós dancing workshop (Ceardlann damhsa ar an sean nós). Brigits Garden. 1- 2.30pm. Learn sean nós steps & have some fun with Marian Ní Chonghaile. Kids 7+ and adults welcome. Children €5, adults €10. Spaces limited. 086-853-3397 or mlconneely@eircom.net. 29th: Open workshop. Connemara West Centre, Letterfrack. 10-5pm. Conservation and restoration of furniture and wooden objects. Special workshop for children. 09541036 or sven@conservationletterfrack.ie. 29th: Knit-Along Sunday. Sheep & Wool Centre, Leenane. 10-6pm. Knitting challenge, how much can be knitted in one day! 095-42323 or leenane@eircom.net. 29th: Oughterard historical walk. Catholic church car park. 10.45-12.15. Guided cultural & historical mile walk in Oughterard. 091-552-128 or kynemary@gmail.com. 29th: Traditional music and dance with local artists. 12 noon - 2pm. Connemara National Park, Letterfrack. 095-41323 or siobhan.geoghegan@environ.ie. 29th: Bat walk. 8.30pm. Connemara National Park, Letterfrack. 095-41323 or siobhan.geoghegan@environ.ie. 29th: Dawn bat swarm at 5am. Aughnanure Castle carpark. Wear warm clothes and bring a small hand torch. See www.batconservationireland.org.
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Abbeyglen Castle Hotel. Sky Road. Open for dinner 7 nights a week. Summer restaurant special: Four course dinner €35pp (Early booking advisable) and Tuesday is Irish Night. 095-21201. www.abbeyglen.ie. Alcock & Brown Hotel. The Square, Clifden. 095-21880. Vickers Coffee House: Lunches from €6.95.Childrens lunches from €3. Essence coffee. Delicious homemade apple pie, cakes, scones and desserts. Access to outdoor decking area. Open 9am to 6pm. 7 days a week. Brown’s Restaurant open daily 6-10pm. Summer special: 3 Course set menu for 2 with bottle of wine €60 - Vickers Bar great value new bar menu served 12 noon to 9pm. 6 TVs for viewing all sporting events. LIVE MUSIC at weekends. Join us Tuesday to Friday from 12.30 to 14.30 for ‘Lunch with the Fiddler’. Derryclare Restaurant. The Square. Long-established family restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining. Traditional and contemporary cuisines. Specialising in fresh local seafood, prime meats, pizza and fresh pasta dishes. Enjoy a 3 course meal for two including a bottle of wine for only €58. Takeaway menu available. 095-21440. Griffins Bar, Main Street, Clifden. 095-21370. Food served Mon-Thu 12-4pm, Friday 12-5pm, Saturday 10-4pm & Sunday 11-4pm. Experience sporting events on big screen & in glorious HD both inside or out in the heated beer garden with smoking area. Live music seven nights a week - Mondays: Trad with Barry Brady & Friends, Tuesdays: Trad with Anders & Friends, Wednesdays: Traditional music, Thursdays: Trad with The Heron Brothers & Conleth Farthey, Fridays: Traditional music with Johnny Connolly & Johnny Óg Connolly . Saturday nights – Country/Rock with Buck’Em , Sundays: The Heron Brothers followed by DJ Pat Fiddler 11 till finish. Regatta Weekend: Friday 6th August SKAZZ - ska vibes with jazz roots and Saturday 7th Rock with Buck’Em. Guy’s Bar. Main Street. Food served daily 10.30am to 9pm. Traditional music daily from 7-9pm, Live music Friday nights with Michael Carey, DJ every Saturday night from 10pm and music with Aidan Ward every Sunday night. Snug available for private parties. 095-21130. info@guysbarclifden.com. Kylemore Pass Hotel Restaurant. Appetizing home-cooked meals using only the best local produce. The Sailors’ Bar which is a popular haunt for locals and visitors alike, serves an excellent variety of bar meals and bottled beers from all around the world. 095-41141. www.kylemorepass-hotel-connemara.com. Mannion’s Bar. Market Street. 095-21780. This traditional family run Irish Pub is a very popular lunchtime meeting
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spot serving a large food menu daily until 9pm. Pool table, Juke Box and traditional Irish music Nights through out the Summer. Craic and Ceoil!! Marconi Restaurant at Foyle’s Hotel. The Square. 09521801. Open 6 days. 6-9pm. Early Bird specials from 6-6.45pm. €25.95 for 3 courses from our main menu. Reservations are recommended. www.foyleshotel.com. Mullarkey’s Bar. The Square. 095-21801. Basket House on Thursday Nights - Live music every Friday and Saturday night. Check out our billboard on The Square for gig listings or visit Mullarkeys Bar Facebook page. O’ Dowds Bar & Seafood Restaurant. Open daily from 10.30am. Award winning traditional pub. Early Bird special 2 courses + tea/coffee €19.50 (available until 7pm). Evening restaurant menu served from 5pm9.30pm, Bar food served Noon-9.30pm. Fresh seafood daily. 095-35809 or see www.odowdsrestaurant.com. Portfinn Lodge & Fjord Restaurant. Family run since 1977. Overlooking the majestic Killary Harbour. Specializes in locally sourced fish, lobster, lamb, beef and
August 2010
mussels with their Portfinn‘Famous’ bisque. Early Bird menu is offered from 6-7pm with 3 courses for €20 and a Taste of India every Thursday €25 pp. 095-42265 or see www.portfinn.com. The Station House Bar. Station House Courtyard. Food served daily noon -9pm. Relax with a pre-theatre drink! Live music: Thursday nights - Irish music, Friday nights with Gerry Curran and Saturday nights with Barry Ryan. 095-21699.
theConnemaraDirectory
Connemara Community Radio Weekly Schedule Broadcasting 11 am to 9 pm each day on 87.8 FM & 106.1 FM Weather Forecast & Community Notices at 3pm, 4pm and 8pm. Sponsored by Broderick Electric, Sweeney Oil, Gannon Sports and The Oil Company.
Blast from the Past A flyer for the Clifden Cinema from 1957 was sent to the Connemara View by Marty Conneely of Errislannan. It shows some interesting glimpses into the past. Big names of the time included Dirk Bogarde, Charlton Heston, Jack Palance, Dean Martin, Olivia De Havilland, James Stewart, Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh and the popularity of westerns at the time can also be seen from the old listings. The Clifden Cinema was one of the most popular pastimes for locals and visitors alike at the time, bringing some of the glamour and drama of Hollywood to an Irish rural audience.
Guess Who? This young man was pictured in front of the Twelve Bens on Toby the donkey in 1972 and we wonder if readers might recognise him nowadays-if you think you know, call us at the Connemara View on 095-22888 or e-mail news@connemaraview.com.
Death Notices Maura Bán Ní Curraión, Cnoc an Glas, Spiddal PJ Barry, Ballynew, Cleggan Peter Culley, Ross, Moyard Bridie Doherty (née De Courcey), New York & formally Errisbeg Damien Geoghegan, Murrurundi, Australia and formerly of Oughterard Nóirín Hayes (née Ní Chéidigh), Saile Chúna, An Spidéal, formerly of Mountbellew. Dermot Joyce, Ardvarna House, Oughterard Nora (Baby) King, Inishnee, Roundstone Barbara McDonagh, Tamhna Bhig, Turlough, Rosmuc Tomás O’Cualain, Teach Mor East, Inverin John O’Toole, Fahy, Kingstown, Clifden The Connemara View would like to extend sympathies to the family and friends of the deceased. This list is compiled from various sources and we apologise for any errors or omissions.
Corrections and Clarification In the June edition of the Connemara View newspaper which covered the AIB Better Ireland Programme branch presentation for AIB Clifden the following error occurred: In the article and photo caption the piece described Mr. Dave Beecher as Branch Manager, AIB Clifden. This was an error and Mr. Dave Beecher should have been referred to as Acting Branch Manager, AIB Clifden as Mr Declan Maher is the Branch Manager, Clifden. We regret any confusion this may have caused. Mary Crotty PR. Ltd.
Next Issue:
Thursday, September 2nd DEADLINES: Ad Space Reservation: August 21st News: August 25th Classified Ads: August 25th
095-22888 www.connemaraview.com Connemara View Newspaper
Connemara View Newspaper 7,500 copies distributed monthly throughout Connemara 095-22888 087-290-9351 news@connemaraview.com www.connemaraview.com Editor-in-Chief/Publisher: Ellen McDonough News Editor: Catherine Pryce Distribution Mgr: John Dunne Graphic Design/Layout: Marie-Noelle Biddulph Advertising/Admin: Paula Bann Contributors: John Amenhauser, Anne Marie Bennett, Steve Breen, John Brittain, Sue Brittain,Tom Broderick, Boyd Challenger, John Cláro, Susan Cockburn, Ann Conneely, Marty Conneely, Mary Corbett-Joyce, Conor Coyne, Gerard Coyne, Richard De Stacpoole, Daniel Diaz, Andrew Downes, Sinead Duane, Marina Fiddler, Brendan Flynn, Paul Fitzpatrick, Martina Gavin, Rosemary Hanley, Lol Hardiman, Aoife Herriot, Lorna Hill, John Holmes, Patrick Howard, Grainne Hyland, Laurence Ingelbach,Caroline Joyce, Yvonne Kane, Ness Kelly, Alice Kennelly, Irene King, Michael King, Mike Laffey, Bernard Lee, Joachim Lydon, Padraic Lyden, Leslie Lyons, Declan Mannion, Paddy ‘Yank’ McDonagh, Nora McHugh, Eamonn McLoughlin, Maria McLoughlin, Priscilla McNamara, Ann Mitchell, Eileen Mulkerrin, Sean Nee, Áine Máire Ní Flatharta, Saghlóg Ní Chualáin, Seán Ó Mainnín, Lavinnia O’Malley, Breandan O Scanaill, Maurice O Scanaill, Matt O’Sullivan, Sinéad O’ Sullivan, Terence O’Toole, Niamh Philbin, Marie-Helene Poudebigne, Kevin Prunty, Alan Pryce, Ruth Rogers, Rose Rima, Edel Savage, Ann Schley, Melissa Wallace, Catherine Walsh, Gemma Walsh, Harry Walsh, Joan Walsh, Marie Walsh, Damian Ward, Declan Weir.
Plus many local schools, groups & organisations. Photography by staff unless credited otherwise.
August 2010
12-4pm: Repeat of previous evenings broadcast. * Indicates Sponors
Monday: 11am-12 Noon: The Chat Show with
Heather Heanue and Colleen Curran. 4-5pm: Listen Here with Pete Ball. 5.05-6pm: Hooked on Music with John Duane. *Clifden Chamber of Commerce. 6-7pm: Alternate Weeks - As Gaeilge with Caitriona Nic Ghiollaphadraig OR Heyday with Bobbi O Regan. 7-8pm: Talk Sport with Bernard Lee. *Galway CoCo. 8pm: Roundstone Report with Richard de Stacpoole and Anne Conneely. 8.15-9pm: Ann’s Mixed Bag with Ann Conneely. Tuesday: 11am-12 Noon: Magazine Programme with Cliona Sheehan. *Connemara View Newspaper. 4-5pm: Gateway Hour with Peter Hamilton. 5.05-6pm: Jack’s Spot with Jack Tomlinson. 6- 7pm: Live with John Dunne. 7-8pm: Community Matters with Pat Walshe. *Tullycross and Cashel Credit Unions. 8pm: Cashel Report with Bernard Lee. 8.15-8.25pm CIC. 8.25-9pm: Community Matters continued. Wednesday: 11am-12 Noon: FORUM Programme with Cathy Keane and Brendan O’Malley. 4-6pm: Gateway Hour with Mickey Mac. 6- 7pm: My Kind of Music with Martin Conroy. *ClifdenSupply Centre.7-8pm: Lift the Latch with Michael O’ Neill and Helen King. 8pm: Clifden Report with Breandan O’Scanaill. 8.15-9pm: Music with Pat Keaney. Thursday: 11am-12 Noon: Magazine Programme with Mary Roe. 4-5pm: Gateway Hour with Kathleen O’Brien. 5.05-6pm: Fáilte with Mary Corbett Joyce. 6- 7pm: The Food Show with Janet O’Toole. 7-8pm: The Great Outdoors with Breandan O’Scanaill. *Acton Construction.8 pm: Cleggan Claddaghduff Report with Mary Gordon O’Toole. 8.15-9pm: Specialist Music with Breandan O’Scanaill. Friday: 11am-12 Noon: Friday Fix with Samantha Heanue & Priscilla Diamond. 4-5pm: Gateway Hour with Tonya Ni Chuirínn. 5.05-6pm: The Friday Feeling with Margaret Sheehan. 6-7pm: Lyrical Allsorts with Linda O’Malley. 7-8pm: Injury Time with Dave O’Halloran. *AIB Clifden. 8pm: Ballyconneely Report with John O’ Malley. 8.15-9pm: American Country with Brendan Ridge. Saturday: 11am-12 Noon: Monkeying Around with Heather Kearney. 4-5pm: Gateway Hour with Tommy Roe. 5.05-6pm: Pretty Good Day so Far! with Sean Halpenny. 6- 7pm: Blue Highways with Lol Hardiman. 7-9 pm: Music Spectacular Alternate Weeks - Shelter from the Storm with Dave O’ Halloran or Coast to Coast with Paul Phelan. Sunday: 10-11am: Sounds a Bit Irish with Eamonn McLoughlin.11am-12noon: Mass from Clifden. 4-5pm. Listen Here with Pete Ball. 5.05-6pm: Words & Music with Kathleen Faherty. 67pm: Footappin’ Time with Tom Mongan. 7-8pm: Senior Side of the Street with various presenters. *FORUM. 8pm: Ballinakill Report with Paddy Gannon. 8.15-9pm: Decades of Hits with Michael Coyne.
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Roundstone Pony, Sheep, Dog & Domestic Arts Show
Quality Sheep Stock at Roundstone Photo left:Stephen King claimed the prize for Champion Black faced sheep with David Regan in Reserve. The sheep classes were conducted and judged by Damian Connolly and Cailin Conneely who are also pictured. Photo right: The Champion Cross Breed sheep was owned by Mickey Mannion, with Paddy Sullivan in Reserve. (L-r): Mickey Mannion, Cailin Conneely, Paddy Connolly, John Joyce and Damien Connolly.
Pony Show 1st place results
Clooneile Cashel (Cloonisle Cashel-Tolka Bridge) owned by Eamon Burke from Castlegar was named Champion of the Roundstone Connemara Pony Show on Sunday July 11th, seen here with Roundstone Show Queen Roisin McQuinn of Oughterard.
Photo above: Noel and Kitty Noonan’s mare Rosscon Windy Lady (Laerkens Cascade Dawn-Winnie) won the Reserve Championship shown by Johnny Conneely. Photo right: Hazelrock Star (Glencarrig Prince-Smokey Star) was Junior Champion at Roundstone Show. Kieran McGrath was presented the Mary and Mickey McDonagh Perpetual Cup on behalf of the McDonagh grandchildren by Michael McDonagh from New York.
Yearling filly: Patrick King’s Derryeighter Freya, by Linsford Barney-Pride of the West. Yearling colt: Mairtin Nee’s Doonreghan Marty, by Coolilaun Cushlaun-Doonreghan Star. Two year old filly: Kieran McGrath’s Hazlerock Star, by Glencarrig Prince-Smokey Star. Three year old filly: Feichin and Kerry King’s Grey Realtin, by Tempo Active Atlas-Realt na Mharda Two & Three year old colt: Anne Conroy and Patrick Conneely’s Errismore Rocky, by Currachmore Cashel-Gold Label. Junior Champion: Hazlerock Star. Reserve: Doonreghan Marty. Open Youth Class: Noel Noonan’s Rosscon Windy Lady, by Laerkens Cascade DawnWinny (Maeve Conneely). Filly foal: John Joe O’Neill’s by Caherlistrane Prince-Laragh Bay. Colt foal: Michael and Deirdre Holmes’s Carnane Commander by Skousboe Morning Rock-Robe Moonlight. Champion foal: Carnane Commander. Reserve: filly by Caherlistranne PrinceLauragh Bay. Four year old and over stallion: Eamon Burke’s Clooneile Cashel, by Cloonisle Cashel-Tolka Bridge. Four to six year old mare: Noel Noonan’s Rosscon Windy lady, by Laerkens Cascade Dawn-Winnie. Seven to twelve year-old mare: Eamon Burke’s Manninard Sprigeen, by Tulira Robuck-Tara IV. Thirteen years and over mare: Tom Burke’s Misty, by Carraroe Handy Andy-Bright Star. Geldings: Liam Diamond’s Ballyshell Tommy, by Loughlum Sadat-Killane Queen. Bay mare two year old and over: Peter Molloy’s Dooneen Starlight, by Silver ShadowDooneen Starlight. Supreme Champion: Clooneile Cashel. Reserve: Rosscon Windy Lady.
Domestic Arts Show Ronan Mullen’s handcrafted seashell lamp (see photo right) was chosen as the ‘Best in Show’ by the judges. There was a great turnout for seventeen classes with prizes from Anna’s Nail Bar, Ohh! By Gum, Homeware Plus and the Alcock & Brown Hotel. The Connemara View was the overall event sponsor. Photo below left: Ann Molloy won first prize in the 3 Garden Roses class and her granddaughter Ciara Hewitt won first place in the Fruit Scones and Unclassified art classes. Photo below right: Ellen Gannon won first place for her brown soda bread and apple tart.
Sheep Show Results
Pair cross ewe lambs: Paddy Sullivan Pair blackface ewe lambs: Dean Kerrigan Any cross single ram lamb: Fintan Joyce Single blackface ram lamb: Dean Kerrigan Any age pair suffolk cross ewes: Fintan Joyce Pair hogget ewes: David Regan Any age pair cheviot cross ewes: Thomas Walsh Pair of old ewes with or without lambs: Steven King Cross bred ram any age: Mickey Mannion Hogget ram: Brendan Joyce Old Ram: Steven King Champion cross breed: Mickey Mannion Champion blackfaced: Steven King.
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August 2010
George McQuinn’s Pomeranian Scruffy took the Champion title in the Dog Show and was presented with his trophy and prize by Judge Sir Roger Thomas.
Connemara View Newspaper
Ballyconneely Pony Show
Henry O’Toole of Clifden (photo left) with the E. McGonagle Cup for his Champion calf. Ciaran Roche of Fahy, (photo right) Clifden had the Reserve Champion calf.
Pony Show 1st place results
Henry O’Toole’s mare Village Linnett was named Champion of the Ballyconneely Pony Show 2010 on Sunday July 18th, pictured here with Ballyconneely Show Queen Rachael Lowrie.
Photo above: The Reserve Champion at Ballyconneely Show was Raymond Conneely’s stallion Bay Shadow. Photo below: Damien Gorham’s mare Doonhill Queen, seen here with Triona Gorham and Judges Sylvia Henry and David McCann took the title of Junior Champion.
Ridden Classes First Place Results Photo below: The McDermott Perpetual trophy was presented by John McDermott, wife Marion and children Ciara, Mar-
Connemara View Newspaper
Yearling Colt: Martin Keaney’s Murvey Hector,by Currachmore Cashel-Sarena. Yearling Filly: Caroline Lydon’s Golden Miriah by Lehenagh Lad-Scully. 2 or year old: Colt Damian Gorham’s Connemara Eile by Cloonisle Cashel-Connemara Lady 2 year old Filly: Kieran McGrath’s Hazelrock Star by Glencarrig Prince-Smokey 3 year old Stallion: Ann Conroy Conneely & Patrick Conneely’s Errismore Rocky by Currachmore Cashel-Gold Label 3 year old Mare: with or without foal at foot Damian Gorham’s Doonhill Queen by Currachmore Cashel-Connemara Lady Junior Champion: Damian Gorham’s Doonhill Queen. Reserve Junior Champion: Kieran McGrath’s Hazelrock Star Colt Foal: Joe McCann, Ballyconneely. Colt by Glencarrig Prince-Celtic Moy Streams Filly Foal: Michael Conneely, Clifden. Filly by Currachmore Cashel-Ardbear Belle Best Parish Foal: Joe McCann. Best Visiting Foal: Michael Conneely, Clifden 4 to 6 year old Mare: with or without foal at foot Gearoid Curran’s Glencarrig Rose by Coosheen Stormboy-April Rose Stallions 4 years & over: Raymond Conneely’s Bay-Shadow by Silver Shadow-Twan Ballyvougher 7 to 11 year old Mare with or without foal at foot: Henry O’Toole’s Village Linnett by Cascade Dawn-Village Girl 12 to 19 year old Mare: Dry Mare Breda Horan’s Killmeen Jane by Cloonisle Cashel-Rhylin Saoirse 12 to 19 year old Mare with foal at foot: Tom Burke’s Misty Bright Star by Carraroe Handy Andy-Bright Star Mare 20 years and Over with or without foal at foot: Triona Gorham’s Sliabh Rua Carra by Ardravinna Andy-Lettercallow Lady Champion Of the Show: Henry O’Toole’s Village Linnett. Reserve Champion: Raymond Conneely’s Bay Shadow.
tha, Sean Óg and Úna to Catherine Gorton of Oughterard who won the title of Overall Ridden Champion. Lead Rein: Meadhbh O Neill, Ballyconneely Gelding: Mary & Michael Connolly, Rosscahill Young Handler: Noel Noonan, Clifden-Maeve Conneely Side Saddle: Catherine Gorton, Oughterard Local Ridden Pony: Alana Cazabon Sullivan, Inishnee Rider U/16: Emma O’ Toole, Clifden Rider O/16: Jack & Erin O’ Neill, Bunowen, Ballyconneely Open Ridden: Catherine Gorton, Oughterard Working Hunter: Mary & Michael Connolly, Rosscahill Champion Ridden Pony: Catherine Gorton, Oughterard. Reserve: Emma O’ Toole, Clifden.
August 2010
Champion of the Ballyconneely sheep classes was Jonathon Molloy’s blackface ram selected by Judge Charles Tinny (see photo left).
Winner of the St. Cailín cup and Champion dog of the Ballyconneely Show was Emmett Moran’s Akita Bailey, seen here with Judge Roger Thomas.
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Keeping Busy with Bees The Cumann Beachairí Chonamara (Connemara Beekeeping Association) was formed in January 2010 after an open meeting was held in Oughterard, spearheaded by a small group of Connemara beekeepers and enthusiasts. The association was constituted in March and is affiliated to the Federation of Irish Beekeepers Associations (FIBKA). It has been a resounding success to date, bringing together experienced keepers and complete beginners from every corner of Connemara to share knowledge and experiences, while enjoying the rewarding pastime together. I recently spoke to Chairman Gerard Coyne of Baille Nua Apiaries in Cleggan who filled me in on the buzz about bees.
How long have you been keeping bees Gerard and how did you begin? I have been beekeeping now for about 20 years. I was always interested in it as when I was a young lad most houses would have had a couple of hives but then it was kind of forgotten about for years. Beekeeping had virtually died out in Connemara in recent decades; it seemed there were only a few people here and there continuing to do it.
So how did you learn to do it? Well, over the years I would always try to make my way to other people who were doing it, for example the Co. Galway Association, of which I’ve been a member for years. They are affiliated with the Federation of Irish Beekeepers Associations, and in that way you meet beekeepers from all over the country. There’s also a course in Gormanston in Co.Meath around the last week of July every year that I attend.
The Connemara Beekeeper’s Association was formed at the beginning of this year-how did that come about? Myself and a few more dedicated beekeepers including Sean Finnerty from Spiddal, David Geoghegan from Oughterard and Sean Osbourne from Moycullen organised a public meeting in January in Oughterard to see what kind of feedback or interest there would be. We were hoping for about 20 people and ended up with around 45, so it was a really fantastic turnout. There was a mixture of people; some who had perhaps done it before and wanted to return to it; regular keepers like myself and complete beginners. There were some who might have tried before and had problems so they stopped, and they were delighted to meet others who could help and advise them. We also discovered people who were already keeping and had hives that we previously did not know. We have a good enough spread of members all over Connemara now that people in the same area can help each other out and compare experiences which is great.
How accessible is beekeeping as a hobby and does it require a lot of time? It requires a lot of time for a short period of the year, mostly May and June. That’s your busy time and swarming season, and you have to be on the ball for those months. In Connemara we would usually only have one harvest around the end of July or August. If we had good summer weather we might get a heather harvest later on.
What is Connemara honey like? Connemara produces a floral honey without any one particular flavour as there is such a variety and diversity of flowers here. We don’t have the amount of chemicals present in the environment that you would find where intensive farming goes on, so that is a real advantage. Connemara honey is really a beautiful pure honey.
What is the situation with Irish bees and the general population? Well there aren’t as many bees in Ireland now as there used to be since the arrival of the Varroa mite in the late 1990’s. I have been monitoring and watching out for it since it arrived in Ireland and we are now using an organic treatment on hives. There’s a special mesh floor in the hive and if mites drop onto it then we can determine the population of mites in the hive. If you don’t treat a hive it will die out
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within a couple of years. We then have to treat when the honey crop is off, as otherwise it would taint the honey. It’s a manageable problem but it is an extra chore.
Can you tell us how to start a hive? If you find a swarm of bees, they will usually go into a hive if one is present. A complete beginner should go to an experienced beekeeper to acquire a nucleus. It’s better for a beginner to start off with a ‘nuc’, so the beginner and hive can develop together, rather than beginning with an established hive, where you could be out of your depth. By the time the ‘nuc’ has grown, so will the beekeeper’s experience and confidence.
If more people kept hives would it improve the prospects of Irish bees? Well we certainly have to be more organised in our beekeeping than in previous years. The days of keeping a hive at the end of the garden and hoping for honey in September are really a thing of the past with the diseases and challenges that are out there today. That was one of the reasons for starting the organisation-our motto is to promote beekeeping in Connemara and also to protect our native black bee, which in our harsh climate and conditions is a superior bee. Bees can be brought in from other places but it’s the ones who have survived and adapted here that we try to breed from.
welcome anyone interested to have a look. Having started up in March of this year, we had two lectures in March and April by lecturers from other associations and had a field day on June 13th to John Summerville’s apiary in Tullamore which was a great success. Our next meeting will be in the Autumn and we’ll also have beginners courses in the winter, one in Oughterard in December and one in Letterfrack in January. We will also have a display and demonstration at the Oughterard Show on Sunday August 29th and in Spiddal on September 5th. We are delighted that our membership is so well spread out all over Connemara, with members from Spiddal, Carraroe, Cleggan, Ballyconneely, Maam, Inishbofin, Oughterard, Moycullen and Clifden, so the variety of people from different villages is really great. Photos: A group from the Connemara Beekeeper’s Association on their field day in Tullamore in June and a working hive. For information on the Connemara Beekeeper’s Association including courses, events, photos and more go to www.connemarabeekeepers.ie Gerard Coyne was in conversation with Catherine Pryce.
How important is safety and the need to wear protective clothing? Safety is certainly a big issue; it’s surprising the amount of people that have allergies that they may or may not be aware of. You need to be very, very careful. Prolonged stings over the years can build up in your system. I get stung occasionally, but for me personally I wouldn’t be too bothered about the odd sting. Anyone who swells up and get nauseous after a sting should really think twice about progressing further with the hobby as it could be very dangerous.
What becomes of the different quantities of honey produced in Connemara every year? Well, the majority of beekeepers in the country would be hobby/recreational, and there’s very little commercial beekeeping in Ireland. But you can always be sure that whatever extra honey that’s produced would find a home! There are plenty of country and town markets nowadays and I have never yet had honey left over any year! However the bad weather for the last three summers can affect output. One wet summer affects the bees right through to the next summer; they don’t like rain which again brings us back to conserving and looking after our resilient native bee.
So if people are interested to learn more, the first step would be to contact other established beekeepers or the association? Yes, our new website is now up and running and we
August 2010
Connemara View Newspaper
Well our need for water has surely been satisfied and now we need the sunshine again. I think that this year will go down as the year of the extremes. I lost a few plants during the extreme frost but luckily not as many as other gardeners. I heard of one inland garden not far from here which lost a lot of its trees. I then lost some more plants due to the drought so I hope I won’t lose any to a flood! Although we have had a fair amount of rain the ground has remained fairly dry due to the leaf cover. This is a busy time for all gardeners, the grass will be growing very quickly and you have to keep on top of it. Even if you have a wildflower meadow a section of mown grass shows it off best. I like to isolate the rough areas so that it doesn’t look as if I forgot to cut that part. I will be cutting the wildflower sections shortly and allowing the normal grass to come to the fore. This will hopefully give the seeds of the wildflowers a chance to get established for next year. I have been very pleased with my rockery which I planted this year. The spring flowers were very good and the summer ones are starting to grow well although there is not as much colour as earlier; this might have something to do with the weather. I suppose I haven’t put as much effort in either so I will have to wait and see. Ideas for Banks A number of people have asked me about what they could do with a fairly steep bank in their gardens. This is always a problem as to keep this looking well requires a lot of attention. Grass works well if the slope is not too steep but cutting grass on a sharp incline is both difficult and dangerous. It is best cut with a strimmer although this can also present problems, especially if the area is wide. Another option would be to plant a good selection of shrubs and small trees. If the slope is going to be viewed from only one side, say the front, it is a good idea to graduate them; smaller at front and larger at the back. Of course this plan would have to be reviewed if the slope was seen from above as well.The other big problem with such a project is weed control. Even if you plant very densely there will always be weeds, and if the slope is steep, climbing and pulling weeds and keeping your balance can be difficult. I know a good many people will cover the ground with some form of weed suppressant and cover it with bark or gravel. This tends to look fairly awful with time as gravity tends to draw the covering and often the material towards the bottom. Rocks or timber placed on top to help keep everything in place tend to go the same way. That being said, there are many plants which can be grown which will cover the slope and give you an elegant tapestry of colour. These include Juniperus squamata ‘Blue carpet’ (photo right top) This conifer grows into low mounds of blue grey foliage that act as a foil to other plants. Ceanothus thyrisflorus, variety repens gives a good effect, with lovely blue flowers as an added bonus. The Cotoneaster
American Bishops Return to Bofin
family (photo below middle) is also very useful, especially as it is generally evergreen. It has white to pink flowers and red fruits in autumn. Moving away from the woody plants there are a number of worthwhile plants including Hypericum Calycinum (photo botom) or ‘Rose of Sharon’, which spreads well and has beautiful yellow flowers. Vinca major or ‘Periwinkle’ is also a good spreader. It has the bonus of having blue or white flowers
climbing roses. These can be allowed to scramble about or you could put in a low lying network of wires which could be used to train the plants. I saw an example of this at Ilnacullin garden in Glengarriff recently where a network of wires trained the plant over a rocky outcrop. At first the wires would look a bit bare, but they would soon get covered. It is still most important to keep watering and feeding containers. Also check these for weeds; you would be surprised as to where you would find these pests. As well as being unsightly, they can take nutrients from the other plants. Weeding is still important and now that the ground is wet there is no danger to the good plants. Remember, a weed is any plant growing in the wrong place, so don’t be afraid to take out even precious plants. They can be planted somewhere else. I have had a huge crop of seedlings from the Laburnum tree. I am taking these out and potting up. I know I have mentioned it before but now as I look around the garden I am struck by the beauty and usefulness of Hydrangea. The two that I planted last year Hydrangea serrata ‘Maiko’ is doing well with its pink flowers contrasting with the red leaves. Hydrangea paniculata ‘Pinky Winky’ (sorry I don’t make up these names!), is flowering profusely with flowers that I must say are more white than pink. These have now been joined by the latest Hydrangea ‘Seemannii’ which is an evergreen climbing hydrangea with a curious habit when in bud. These look like large snowballs but open to the usual lace cap type flower. You could be excused for mistaking it for a camellia, I know I was. Houseplants need a lot of care at present as it is generally their growing season. Water regularly, re-pot if necessary and don’t be afraid to take cuttings. Watch out for bulbs and seeds which will appear in shops towards the end of the month or early next month. To get the most interesting varieties of winter or spring flowering varieties you need to get in early. Happy gardening. Breandan O Scanaill
Summer Tick Awareness
in the winter or early spring. The variety Variegata also has interesting leaf colour. Alchemilla mollis or ‘Lady’s mantle’ is a super plant. It spreads well, has good leaf cover and lovely green flowers. Another good plant is Lamium maculatum or ‘painted nettle’. This comes in a variety of colours and none of them are fussy. A very popular idea recently has been the use of grasses and sedges to cover large areas. Included in these are Bouteloua gracilis or blue grama and Stipa Gigantea or golden oats; as the Latin name suggests this is a large plant but very dramatic. Phalaris Arundinacea or Gardener’s Garters is an easy to grow plant. Hordeum jubatum or squirreltail grass is another popular variety. For an interesting effect, you could try using clematis or
Three American clergymen recently re-visited Inishbofin island on a trip to Ireland where they returned to the site of the tragic loss of two of their friends in a drowning accident in the 1970’s. Auxiliary Bishop for the Archdiocese of Denver, Colorado, James Conley and Bishop of Salina, Kansas, Paul Coakley were among a group of students from Kansas University who visited Inishbofin in February of 1976 when two of their friends Richard Mathes (23) and Edward Moll (21) drowned off the coast of the island, just two days after their arrival. The tragic event bonded the visiting group with the local community at the time and after entering religious life the two men have returned to the island many times in the years since. In December of 1977 a group of over 60 Americans including the parents and families of both deceased men attended a mass and blessing of three dedicated memorial windows at St. Colman’s Church by the then Archbishop of Tuam, Most Rev. Joseph Cunnane. This most recent visit also marked Bishop Conley’s 25th
anniversary of his ordination and the group enjoyed a stay at Murray’s Doonmore Hotel and lunch with Mrs. Day as well as visiting Paddy O’ Halloran who transported them to and from the island on their first trip many years ago. Bishop Conley, Bishop Coakley and Father Gerry Baker also returned to the site of the tragedy at the ‘Stags’ on Inishbofin where a bronze cross by John Behan stands as a memorial to their friends. On departing Inishbofin they also visited Úna Walsh of Clifden, whose brother Monsignor Charles Walsh of the diocese of Wichita, Kansas, was a close friend and colleague of Bishop Conley. Monsignor Walsh gave Bishop Conley the gift of a chalice during the last year of his seminary in 1985 and was a dear friend and mentor until his death in 2008. The trio left Connemara for Knock and Donegal on July 22nd, having greatly enjoyed the opportunity to see friends and once again enjoy the lasting bond forged with the local community
Connemara View Newspaper
August 2010
As the summer season often leads to increased outdoor activity, the risks incurred by tick bites also increases. Tick bites can and do lead to incidents and diagnoses of the seriously debilitating Lyme disease (or Borreliosis) in Ireland every year and in recent years the counties of Kerry and Galway have been identified as areas where significant clusters of incidents have been recorded. A crucial step in the prevention of Lyme disease is the correct removal of ticks. To remove a tick safely: wear surgical gloves, use a tick puller or fine nose tweezers, use disinfectant, wash your hands afterwards and make a note of the date. To remove the tick with an O’Tom Tick Twister: Slide the puller around the head of tick, twist and pull straight up, and disinfect the bite site. If using fine nosed tweezers: Approach the tick from the side, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, and pull straight up. Do not twist. Disinfect the area. Do NOT use the following to remove a tick: Vaseline, cream, gel, liquid, powder, cigarettes, matches, lighter, your fingers or teeth or anything that squeezes the body of the tick. If in doubt, cut out and keep this guide to deal with tick bites safely. Ness Kelly many years ago in the sad circumstances of the time. Photo (l-r): Bishop James Conley, Una Walsh, Bishop Paul Coakley and Fr. Gerry Baker.
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August Bogman 63
Across
1 It’s clear, the wrapping on a cell phone has been tampered with. (10) 6 Knocks back train in ring. (4) 10 ELN. That’s worn. (5) 11 After last month, I had sex 10% less. (9) 12 Isn’t it wonderful how chopped log is our answer? (8) 13 Give something old of yours to me and Herb. (5) 15 Heckle if it sounds like POTUS will prohibit torture device. (7) 17 Initially the Attorney General never was involved, but now he delivers retribution. (7) 19 Disfiguring scar I’ve got from having my innards exposed. (7) 21You and I are quite unbending in this direction. (7) 22 Animals that are worth money to the common man in America. (5) 24 When upset, soar into long, fancy speeches. (8) 27 For such aquatic creatures, life hangs precariously. (9) 28 It’s alright to be in a state of reverence when one came to. (5) 29 Common threads that just don’t work. (4) 30 After a mixture of hay and corn, you need a drink! (10)
Down
Enter crossword answers into a draw of correct answers for a voucher for Homeware Plus in Clifden by August 25th.
Connemara Crossword 69
1 It’s found a little lower on the leg. (4) 2 Louse’s head and cricket’s home get rent. (9) 3 He has to be in low nervous state. (5) 4 Had place to tie up boat to land fish. (7) 5 Is a coin tossed in this town? (7) 7 Sounds like wound on the leg keeps in the pain, we hear. (5) 8 It makes you think, wrongly, how ruby-coloured the lady’s jewellery is. (3,7) 9 Overcomes totally by having a parent in the Schutzstaffel. (8) 14 There’s nothing shady about the position of chairman. (10) 16 Mixing ales very likely will affect you in a bad way. (8) 18 At the go-light, blow it, being on an L-plate. (9) 20 Damage Hisbola. In fact, get rid of it altogether! (7) 21 Are you and I at her, hail, rain or snow? (7) 23 A hundred is old to be behind bars. (5) 25 State that in a case of candida, hope for a solution. (5) 26 Serbia’s leaders find the male chromosome to be physically very attractive. (4)
Across
1. Large, overpowering, destructive force (10) 6. Fish sounds deep (4) 10. English city is ahead (5) 11. Copy (9) 12. Mad rush (8) 13. Regions (5) 15. Small fish preserved in oil (7) 17. Ribbon shaped pasta (7) 19. Glass flasks (7) 21. Large edible mollusc (7) 22. Nationality (5) 24. Large nocturnal anteater (8) 27. Come first to win this (4, 5) 28. Roman God of underworld and cartoon dog (5) 29. National Assets Management Agency (4) 30. Conductors for current (10)
Send in your Crossword and Quiz answers!
Down 1. Seventh month (4) 2. Irish speaking region (9) 3. Derby racecourse (5) 4. Room for young children (7) 5. Countless (7) 7. Entertain (5) 8. Relation (10) 9. Popular drink (4, 4) 14. North Dublin town (10) 16. State of the U.S.A. (8) 18. Reconnoitre (4, 5) 20. Disgrace (7) 21. Artist’s medium (7) 23. The Muslim world (5) 25. Type of snake (5) 26. Bereavement (4)
Winner of July Bogman 62: Billy Gilmore, An Mám. Winner Connemara Crossword 68: Mary Walsh, Moyard.
Drop to the Connemara View Drop Box at King’s Paper Shop, Main St, Clifden, post to Connemara View, Clifden, Co.Galway or e-mail to news@connemaraview.com.
I’m hoping to go to college this September. When do I apply for the maintenance grant? This year prospective students are being encouraged to apply now for a maintenance grant and not to wait until they have been accepted on a course. To be eligible for financial assistance under the student grant schemes, you must be entering an approved full-time course in an approved institution. You must also satisfy the eligibility conditions for the relevant scheme which include age, nationality, residence, academic progression and means. This year the rules about residence have changed. From 2010 there is a new requirement that you must have lived in Ireland for three of the previous five years. There is one application form for all student grant schemes. These include the Higher Education Grant, the Vocational Education Committees’ Scholarship, the Third Level Maintenance Grant for Trainees and the PostLeaving Certificate Maintenance Grant. You can download the student grant application form for 2010/2011 and guidance notes from studentfinance.ie, the form is also available from your local vocational education
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committee (VEC) or Galway County Council. If you are applying for the Higher Education Grant you should send the completed form to Galway County Council; if you are applying for the other grants you should send the completed form to your local VEC. You must apply to the local authority or VEC in your home area, not the area where the college is located. Return your completed application form as soon as possible (the closing date is 31st August 2010). When you have accepted your place on a course, you will need to fill in the course acceptance form that applies to you and return it to the local authority or VEC where you applied for a maintenance grant. Further information is available from Clifden Citizens Information Service which provides a free and confidential service to the public. Tel: 095-22000 or 087-130-1100. Email: clifden@citinfo.ie. Open: Thursday 7pm to 8pm, Friday 10:30am to 3:30pm. Please note our new address: 2nd Floor, Cashel/Connemara Credit Union, Seaview, Clifden. Information is also available online at www.citizensinformation.ie and from the Citizens Information Phone Service, Lo-call 1890 777 121.
August 2010
What Do You Know? Quiz 22
No winner of Quiz 21. Prize money is now €20. Send your answers to Connemara View, Clifden, Co.Galway, e-mail to news @ connemaraview.com or drop to the Drop Box at King’s paper Shop Main St. Clifden Geography: The earth orbits the sun at how many miles per hour? History: What was the first soft drink consumed in outer space? Sport: What natural substance is sometimes used for antifreeze mixtures in the centre of golf balls? Math: How much would a hundred pound person weigh on Mars? Science: In order to be tasted food has to be mixed with what? Cooking: Almonds are a member of what fruit family? General Knowledge: Do forest fires move faster uphill or downhill? Politics: When and where was the system of democracy first introduced? Art: How many paintings did Van Gogh sell during his lifetime? Entertainment: Who were the first TV couple to sleep in the same bed? Literature: What is the world’s longest non-fiction work? Local Interest: Galway hookers are subdivided into how many types?
July Quiz Answers Geography: The New Hebrides Islands are currently known as? The Vanuatu Islands. http://en.wikipedia.org/ wiki/Vanuatu History: In which Jewish month is Passover held? Nisan. http:// parenting.ivillage.com/tp/ tcelebrations/0,,44cm,00.html Sport: How many counties in Ireland do not have a Gaelic Football Team? 0. http://www.funtrivia.com/submitquiz. cfm?quiz=316589 Maths: What is the oldest mathematical text(s)? Plimpton 322. http:// en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_ mathematics Science: Who was the first scientist to describe the magnetic-needle compass used for navigation? Shen Kuo. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_science Cooking: When was the first American cookbook published and what was its name(s)? “The Complete Housewife” or “Accomplish’t Gentlewoman’s Companion” by Eliza Smith. http:// cookingwhiz.com/cookhistory.htm General Knowledge: What is the most common mammal in the US? Mouse. http://www.knowledgebase-script. com/demo/article-485.html Music: When and where was Bob Dylan’s first professional performance? The opening act for John Lee Hooker at Gerde’s Folk City in New York, 1961. http://didyouknow.org/fastfacts/music.htm Art: It is estimated that Edward Degas made 15,000 paintings, pastels, prints and drawings of what? Dancers. http://www.theartgallery.com.au/ DidYouKnow.html Entertainment: What is the most recorded song in history? The Beatles ‘Yesterday’. http://www.opendb.net/ element/2129.php Literature: The sole surviving written record of the Mayan Culture is written on what? Bark Paper. http://www. sentex.net/~ajy/facts/literature.html Irish Interest: What were The Pogues originally called? Pogue Mahone. http://www.ireland-fun-facts.com/ ireland-facts.html
Connemara View Newspaper
August Horoscopes Aries (Mar 21-Apr 20) Stick to what you know is right and true this month and that way you will not go wrong. Taurus (Apr 21-May 20) In order to know the truth about something you need to be open to what the truth is. Gemini (May 21-Jun 21) This is a great month for you to try something new. Just get some help along the way. Cancer ( Jun 22-Jul 22) Sometimes you need to be bold in order to get things done. This is one of those months. Leo ( Jul 23-Aug 23) Happy Birthday! This will be a good month for you because you will get the benefits of some hard work. Virgo (Aug 24-Sep 22) Happy Birthday! There are whispers of love all around you. Are the whispers about you? Libra (Sep 23-Oct 23) There is something that you have been saving up for or really want. Treat yourself this month. Scorpio (Oct 24-Nov 22) Something radically different is coming your way. Just go with the flow when it arrives. Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21) It’s a month for kicking back and relaxing a while so that you can wait on something that’s coming. Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 20) This is family or home month for you so spend as much time as you can with those you care for. Aquarius ( Jan 21-Feb 19) If you have been planning a new path then this is your month to try out anything. Pisces (Feb 20-Mar 20) Fight the good fight: not in a literal sense but you will need to pursue what you want.
Tarot
The Emperor is all about the father figure or strong dominant side of yourself, so in the past you have had to rely on that aspect of things. Now the 4 of Swords is indicating that a dream or hope is on the table and in the cards. There is a possibility that it may come to be. With Temperance in the future position you must trust your internal instincts to guide you towards what it is that you want.
runes
The rune of messages as the action tells you to wait on the advice of someone who is wiser then yourself before taking any action. With the gateway as the challenge you will have to come to terms with the fact that you can take any action and that all the work to be done is inside yourself. The overview warns you that there will be frustration in this situation so that you can and will be prepared for it.
New Moon is on Tuesday August 10th. We probably won’t see the new waxing crescent till about Sunday 15th, when it will be low in the SW sky after sunset. Full Moon occurs at 17:05 UT on Tuesday 24th. At this phase the Moon is on the opposite side of the sky to the Sun; so it rises in the E at sunset, shines all night, and sets in the W at sunrise the following morning. All through the following week, it continues to rise at about the same time in the evening; but its rising-point shifts northwards along the horizon from one night to the next. Mercury is at its greatest elongation east of the Sun on August 24th, so in theory it should be visible in the W after sunset. But in practice it sets only minutes after the Sun. We’re unlikely to see this elusive little guy this month. Venus is low in the W sky as soon as it starts to get dark; it sets before the sky is properly dark, and will get increasingly difficult to see as the weeks go by. But the “Evening Star” is so brilliant it can be seen even in bright twilight, if the sky is clear. Relative to the stars, Venus is moving rapidly SE, across the constellation of Virgo-but Venus far outshines any of the stars and any of the other planets too. Venus passes 3 degrees south of Saturn on August 8th, and 2 degrees south of Mars on the 20th. Mars is low in the W sky at dusk. It looks like a moderately-bright star, with an orange tint. At the start of August, Mars is 2 degrees to the lower left of slightly-brighter Saturn, and 7 degrees to the upper left of brilliant Venus. During the month, Mars draws away to the left from Saturn but Venus catches up from the right, appearing directly below Mars on the evening of Thursday 19th. Mars sets earlier every evening, and by the end of August we will lose sight of it altogether. Jupiter: This month, Jupiter is the only planet visible in the night-time sky. The giant planet is rising in the E in the late evening, and it’s well up in the S by dawn. Although
it’s not as brilliant as Venus, Jupiter can be seen even when the sky is growing bright. Relative to the stars, Jupiter is moving slowly SW in Pisces. In the telescope, Jupiter shows a disc growing to more than 48 arc-seconds in diameter, and it should be possible to make out its dark belts of cloud, though in May, the South Equatorial Belt faded, leaving the North Equatorial Belt as the only strong, dark band. The famous Great Red Spot, normally visible as a hollow in the edge of the southern belt, should be near the centre of the disc late on the evenings of August 2nd, 9th, 14th, 16th, 21st, and 28th. In binoculars, Jupiter’s four major moons may often be seen as tiny points of light, in a near-straight line to either side of the planet. On the evening of Thursday August 26th, our own Moon, just past Full, will be above Jupiter, and slightly to the right. Saturn is yet another planet which is low in the W immediately after sunset; it looks like a bright star, though it won’t be easy to find in the twilight. The famous rings around Saturn can only be seen in a telescope. At the start of August, Saturn is to the upper left of much brighter Venus. As the days go by, Venus moves closer, passing directly below Saturn on the evening of Saturday 7th when the two planets will appear less than 3 degrees apart. Saturn sets earlier every night, and by the end of the month we will lose sight of it completely. Meteors: It’s here again! August always brings the well-known Perseid meteor-shower. They all seem to radiate from a point in the constellation of Perseus, which is well up in NE during the evening, and high in the E by dawn. Perseid meteors may be seen any time from late July to late August, but the peak this year is expected on the evening of Thursday August 12th. Good numbers of Perseids should be visible throughout the night of the 12th-13th; we could hope to see at least one every minute or so, if the sky is clear-and there will be no interference from moonlight this year, so get out there! John Claró
“Recognise Where the Truth Comes From”
August DVD Releases Clash of The Titans The mortal son of the god Zeus embarks on a perilous journey to stop the underworld and its minions from spreading their evil to Earth as well as the heavens in this action packed blockbuster! Stars: Sam Worthington, Liam Neeson and Ralph Fiennes. Shutter Island When U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels arrives at the asylum for the criminally insane on Shutter Island, what starts as a routine investigation quickly takes a sinister turn. As the investigation unfolds and Teddy uncovers more shocking and terrifying truths about the island, he learns there are some places that never let you go. Stars: Leonardo DiCaprio, Mark Ruffalo and Ben Kingsley. The Blind Side The story of Michael Oher, a homeless and traumatised boy who became an All American football player and first round NFL draft pick with the help of a caring woman and her family. Stars:
Sandra Bullock and Tim McGraw. Legion After a terrifying biblical apocalypse descends upon the world, a group of strangers stranded in a remote truck stop diner in the Southwest unwittingly become humanity’s last line of defence when they discover the diner’s young waitress is pregnant with the messiah. Stars: Dennis Quaid and Paul Bettany. Ondine is a lyrical modern fairy tale that tells the story of Syracuse, an Irish fisherman whose life is transformed when he catches a beautiful and mysterious woman in his nets. His daughter and he come to believe that the woman is a magical creature. However, like all fairy tales, enchantment and darkness go hand in hand. Stars: Colin Farrell and Stephen Rea.
Connemara View Newspaper
Connemara Dressage The Cleggan Beach Dressage League provided a demonstration of dressage at the Roundstone Pony Show on July 11th. Siobhan Cazabon is pictured here on her German horse during a superb display which was much enjoyed by the crowd. “A Musical Ride” by the Dressage League, co-ordinated by Judy Cazabon, will entertain at the Connemara Performance Show in the Clifden Showgrounds on Friday August 20th.
August 2010
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Ballynahinch Castle, Ballinafad The official description of Ballynahinch Castle Hotel is ‘a castellated three storey house with projecting entrance bay, crow-stepped gables and half-dormers, c1815. The rendered facade has stone dressings including hood mouldings. The interior retains some decorative ceiling plasterwork and panelled mahogany doors. Extensive additions added during 20th century. Set within picturesque wooded demesne’. The story of how the castle came to look like that is a long one. Ballynahinch Castle stands as the centrepiece of what was once O’ Flaherty territory. These lands stretched from the Atlantic to Galway, although at different periods throughout history this estate was divided amongst cousins. The eastern branch held the upper hand at times, while at other times it was the western branch. Gaelic lordships were very fluid and kinship could count for everything or nothing. There are many stories throughout the country of these inter-family wars and massacres. In or around the 13th century the O’ Flahertys built a stronghold, presumably on the island which still has a ruined castle, although these ruins are from a later castle. This castle was built by Donal O’ Flaherty of Bunowen, sometime in the 1560s. Donal was the husband of Grace O’ Malley. They also founded a Carmelite monastery; the site of this is unknown although it is possibly where the castle now stands. After the Cromwellian wars the estate was forfeited and eventually passed into the hands of the powerful Martin family. They were one of the Tribes of Galway, wealthy merchants of Norman origin and already owned land in Connemara. By careful management they ended up controlling a vast estate of around a quarter of a million acres. The estate was the largest privately owned estate in Britain or Ireland. It was said that their avenue, which started just outside Galway, was the longest in Europe. The building now known as Ballynahinch Castle was built in the mid 1700s by Robert Martin and was originally an inn. Perhaps Robert saw the potential of the estate as a tourist destination, most likely for the fishing and shooting. There are suggestions that it might also have been a cover for smuggling. By the end of the 18th century the building became the Martin home. At that stage the estate belonged to Richard Martin, probably the most colourful character within the family. He was known as ‘Humanity Dick’ for his love of animals and his work as a Member of Parliament led to the setting up of the RSPCA. He was also referred to as ‘Hair-trigger Dick’,
Business Notes Marinot Millinery
The unveiling of Isobel Marinot-Wood’s first collection of millinery pieces and bespoke handmade hats took place over the summer in Ohh! By Gum at the Station House Courtyard in Clifden. Following on from that first public exhibition, some of Isobel’s creations were also on display in Judy Greene’s of Kirwan’s Lane, Galway, and were featured on RTE’s Festival Road Show with Kathryn Thomas. Having studied jewellery design and goldsmithing for several years, Isobel’s creative flair has now taken a new and exciting direction to that of millinery. After undertaking a workshop with milliner Linda McKay in Kilkenny, Isobel successfully completed
Page 32
because of his love of duelling. His family lived for the most part near Galway where they were very much part of society. For some time, Theobald Wolfe Tone was a tutor to the children. In the early 19th century, the house was enlarged making it more suitable as a family home, but it still didn’t have the form we see today. Extensive planting took place and the grounds were laid out with walks and rides cut through the forest. The Martins entertained lavishly and there are many reports from travellers telling of their treatment. One of the visitors was Maria Edgeworth who wrote a wonderful report of her visit. Many of the writings have less than glowing reports about the house and accommodation but all are full of praise for the food and drink. It was said that the Martins kept the best table in Ireland, and why wouldn’t they? One of the best salmon and trout rivers in Ireland flowed just outside the house, fish and shellfish abounded in the sea a few kilometres away and the surrounding hills and mountains were well stocked with animals and game. If the smuggling stories are true there was also no shortage of wines and spirits. Richard died in 1834 and the estate passed to his son Thomas. The Martins were considered good landlords but probably not very efficient ones as the estate ran up huge debts and during the famine the estate was bankrupt. Thomas died in 1847, having contracted fever while visiting his tenants in the Clifden workhouse. The estate had been mortgaged to the Law Life Insurance Company who eventually bought it. They carried out major renovations in order to make the property more saleable. They eventually sold the estate to Richard Berridge and that family lived there for many years. During the years when the castle was in their hands, further improvements were made, including the addition of a third floor and the construction of a terrace which overlooks the river. Many improvements also took place around the estate, most especially the giving of land for the construction of the Galway to Clifden railway line. A train station was built very close to the castle to facilitate themselves and their guests. This station was also used by the estate for the export of fish to the markets of Dublin and London. Also at this time the two gate lodges were built; these were designed by Samuel U. Roberts who was associated with Kylemore Castle.
The Berridge family was different from the Martins. They didn’t live at the castle permanently and treated the estate more as a business. They were well liked in the area and gave much employment on the various projects they undertook. They did eventually take up more permanent residence. The Berridges kept what were probably the most unusual pets in Connemara, two black bears. These were kept on an island but eventually went to Dublin Zoo. In 1924, the first Head of State to visit the newly formed Irish Free State was the Maharajah of Nawanager, Prince Ranjitsinhji. He was one of the best know cricketers of his day. After his visit to Dublin, he travelled to Ballynahinch as a guest of the Berridges. He fell in love with the place and bought the estate in 1925. As well as being a cricketer and an avid sportsman, he had a passion for fishing. The castle was just what he wanted, good fishing, its own railway station and enough space for him to entertain royally. He was one of the most colourful characters associated with the castle and was known as Ranji. There are dozens of stories about Ranji and his prowess at fishing, or sometimes lack of it. Others tell of his private train, but this seems untrue; he did have a private carriage, and locals tell how firecrackers were placed on the tracks to welcome him home. Another local story tells how he would have two brand new cars awaiting his arrival and before his departure at the end of the fishing season he would present the cars to the parish priest and doctor in Roundstone. He undertook major works around the estate, but his lasting legacy is the fishing piers and huts along the river. After Ranji’s death the castle had a number of owners, eventually returning to what it had been built as, an inn. Now a luxury hotel, it still retains its old world atmosphere and is still known for its food, drink and especially its fishing. Breandan O Scanaill. Photo courtesy of Lol Hardiman
two more courses with Jaime McElaney at GMIT, Galway. All hats are unique, using prime materials, preferring pure wool felt and the traditional millinery technique of blocking and are hand finished. They are inspired by the elegant styles of the 1920s to the 1950s, complete with Isobel’s own individual twist. The winter collection may be viewed in Clifden in September. For more information contact Isobel at 087-269-0806/095-21683 or see www.marinotmillinery.com.
10 Years of Whistlestop Whistlestop Gifts and Interiors in Clifden, and its proprietor Gráinne Hyland are this year celebrating ten years in business at the Station House complex. From its beginnings in 2000, Whistlestop was at the forefront of a national trend of design led gift and interiors shops and while some may have come and gone in the turbulent economic climate in the years since, Whistlestop still enjoys the loyalty of many returning customers and has a unique identity of its own. Gráinne initially focused on Irish products and quality designs, but due to the limited size and scope of the Irish industry she
tlestop currently carries that has drawn great interest since its arrival to the Clifden store last year. Whistlestop Gifts & Interiors is open 7 days in the summer season. For more information or enquiries contact Gráinne at 095-21532.
Business Networking Event
travelled to design and retail fairs in Europe, particularly Paris, where she lived for some years, in order to source the right selection of quality designed items for the shop. The result is a cornucopia of attractive and unusual items of gift and homeware that make the shop a true haven for anyone with an eye for interior style. Regular favourites over the years remain popular, for example the Jersey Pottery Fruits de Mer range of plates and crockery, and Gráinne is constantly on the lookout for new additions to enhance the appeal of the range of products available. The Alfa range of Fabergé egg inspired jewellery creations is an exclusive range which Whis-
August 2010
A collaborative business planning and social event for entrepreneurs, start-ups and creatives will take place in Connemara on Friday August 27th and Saturday August 28th when Féile Icarus, organised and promoted by local man Chris Mortimer will be held in Letterfrack at the GMIT campus. A full day workshop (either Friday or Saturday) will provide a supportive platform for the people taking part to identify their strategic challenges and devise practical ways to unlock their business potential. During the workshop, participants will work through a number of business critical questions, drawing on the expertise and insights of the group. All delegates will develop a ‘flight plan’, and identify a ‘tag-team’ partner, who they will continue to collaborate with after the event, as they put their plans in place. continued on next page
Connemara View Newspaper
Planning Applications June & July 10827 Ni Chualain, B, Maumeen, 03/06/10. Chun athru a dheanamh ar phlean ti pl ref. 09/1710. 10830 O Dubhain, M, Muicineach Idir Dha Shail. 03/06/10. Chun athru a dheanamh ar phlea ti (uimh thag pleanail 06/3690) 10831 O Rainne, S, Lettercallow, 03/06/10. Chun sineadh a chuir as teach conaithe agus coras nua searachais a thogail. 10832 O Cualain, P, Maumeen , 03/06/10. Chun cead coinneala a dheanamh ar teach conaithe agus seallai le spas conaithe ar theorainn nua. 10833 Hubert Martni, Sally Faherty, Slieveaneena 03/06/10. For dwelling house, garage, septic tank/effluent treatment system and percoaltion area and all associated services. 10847 Tyler, Bob & Sue, Murvey. 04/06/10. For the retention of a house and a new effluent treatment system. 10850 Wallace, B, Ballynew. 04/06/10. For alterations and extension to existing dwelling house, to include removal of unauthorised elements, retention of unauthorised window to West elevation and completion of associated site development works. 10851 Cumann Peile Bhearna, Cloghscoltia. 04/06/10. For construction of temporary all-weather playing facility with three ball playing pens, two tennis courts, fencing, lighting and associated site development works facilitating sports pitches. 10852 Cumann Peile Bhearna, Cloghscoltia. 04/06/10. For construction of a two storey building comprising of multiuse gymnasium/hall, changing facilities, function room, external stands, effluent treatment plant and percolation area, lighting, culverting of existing stream and associated site development works facilitating sports pitches 10857 Elsafty, Roisin 08/06/10. Chun teach conaithe, coras searachais agus oibreacha laithreain gaolmhara cui a thogail. 10858 Lyons, John, Kilkerrin, 08/06/10. To construct 1 no. single storey detached dwelling and detached garage/shed on site no’s 1 & 2 of previously approved development pl. ref. no. 09/2230 along with associated siteworks/services. 10867 McWilliams, Leo, Ballyconneely, 10/06/10. For a development comprising of a single house dormer style complete with waste water treatment system and percolation area, new site entrance and provision for future connection into previously approved sewerage treatment scheme. 10871 Comharchumann F Arainn, Killeany, 10/06/10. Chun cuirt Aon bhalla a fhorbairt. 10877 na bhForbacha, Coiste Pairce, Knockavoddy, 11/06/10. Chun seastan do lucht feachana a thogail. 10883 Conroy, Kevin & Sinead, Belleek. 14/06/10. For a front porch extension to dwelling house and for a garage/shed. 10884 Faherty, Michael, Killagoola. 14/06/10. To realign existing access road and for a new access point. 10885 Faherty, Tom, Killagoola. 14/06/10. For a dwelling house, garage and private wastewater treatment system. 10890 Ni Churraoin, Aine, Boliska Eighter, 16/06/10. For the retention (of minor external alterations from previously granted pl. ref. 05/4370) and completion of a dwelling house and garage. 10891 O Curraoin, Peadar & Marian, Boliska Eighter, 16/06/10. Le haghaidh teach conaithe, seirbhisi agus coras coireala Kingspan Envirocare a thogail. 10895 Wallace, Eileen, Ballynew, 16/06/10. For the construction of a single storey extension with attic room to the side of existing dwelling. 10899 Cadhain, Mairtin, Ballynahown, 17/06/10. (1) chun teach nua conaithe a thogail chomh maith le (2) garaiste nua
Business Notes continued
The structure of the workshop means participants will meet a lot of people and exchange information about their activities. It will be an opportunity to build excellent contacts with other people involved in innovative and unpredictable work and so is ideal for someone who wants to run a start-up, has invented something or is wondering what to do next. Looking forward to the event, Chris Mortimer said “Entrepreneurs are driven by their passions and learn from their failures. Through this event, we endeavour to make use of those learnings and devise actionable plans that will capitalise on the passions. Traditional training programmes tend to overlook these elements, whilst at Féile Icarus we aim to harness them as a springboard for business and creative planning.” Initial and growing participant lists can be seen on LinkedIn and Facebook, search for ‘Féile Icarus’. To book places or for further information, go to www. feileicarus.com.
Connemara View Newspaper
a thogail agus (3) coras searchais nua Kingspan Envirocare. 10902 Joyce, Rodger, Cregg, 17/06/10. To construct a dwelling house, sewage treatment system and domestic garage. 10907 MacDonnacha, Paraic, Carraroe, 17/06/10. Chun teach conaithe agus garaiste a thogail. 10908 O Neachtain, Paraic, Cornarona, 17/06/10. Chun teach conaithe, garaiste agus coras searachais a thogail. 10909 S Bhreathnach, Conor MacEoin &, Rosaveel. 17/06/10. Chun athchoiriu a dheanamh ar teach conaiathe agus sineadh a chuir as, chomh maith le coras searachais a thogail. 10916 Conroy, John, Belleek.18/06/10. For retention of dwelling house, garage/shed, boiler house and private wastewater treatment system. 10917 Griffin, Laura, Killymongaun, 18/06/10. For a dwelling house, garage and private wastewater treatment system. 10919 Ryos Ltd, Carrowmanagh, 18/06/10. For four dwelling houses with ancillary services and associated works. 10922 Ballyconneely Playgroup, Ballyconnneely. 18/06/10. To construct playground facility and ancillary works. 10925 Connemara Golf Club Ltd, Creggoduff. 18/06/10. For revisions to the proposed layout of the treatment plant and polishing filter previously granted permission. 10944 Misteil, Tony Og, Carna, 24/06/10. (1) chun athraithe ata deanta ar phlean cogaslann ceadaithe faoi uimh tag 09/1843 a choinneail (2) cead chun an obair a chriochnu. 10947 Gamondi, G & L, Ballynahinch, 24/06/10. Chun sheid baid a thogial. 10951 O Donoghue, Thomas, Lissoughter, 25/06/10. For retention of dwelling house and septic tank as constructed. 10956 O Halloran, Aidan, Ardbear, 28/06/10. Outline permission for a dwelling house and private wastewater treatment system. 10981 De Bhailis, Seamus, Keeraunbeg, 01/07/10. Chun foirgneamh talmhaoichta a thogail anseo. 10986 Folan, Oliver, Clynagh, 02/07/10. To construct a domestic garage previously granted under planning reference number 01/2526 on a revised site boundary. 10998 Ni Chualain, Mairead, Bealadangan. 07/07/10. For a change in elevations to a previously granted planning application ref no 10/210 101005 Curran, Rachel, Gortacleva 08/07/10. For the construction of a dwelling house with a separate private garage, wastewater treatment unit along with all associated ancillary works. 101006 Curran, Aisling, Gortacleva 08/07/10. For the construction of a dwelling house with a separate private garage, wastewater treatment unit along with all associated ancillary works. 101007 McDonagh, Teresa, Fough East. 08/07/10.For dwelling house with ancillary services and associated works. 101008 Lee, Bernard, Tawnbawn. 08/07/10. For a dwelling house, garage, private wastewater treatment system and a mobile home. 101009 McMahon, Margaret, Barraderry. 08/07/10. Chun teach nua, garaiste agus coras searachais a thogail. 101010 Fitzpatrick, Marie, Cashleen. 08/07/10 To construct a dwellinghouse, sewage treatment system and domestic garage. 101011 Seoighe, Lorraine, Eochaill. 08/07/10. Chun teach nua, garaiste agus coras searachais a thogail. 101012 O Flatharta, Mairtin, Eochaill. 08/07/10. Chun teach nua, garaiste agus coras searachais a thogail. 101014 Brosnan, Shane, Barraderry. 08/07/10. For the construction of a new site entrance from the public road, including the construction of a visitors parking area. 101017 O Conchubhair, N Lettermore. 08/07/10. Chun uasghradu a dheanamh ar choras searachais chomh maith le oibreacha eile coimhdeach. 101018 O Conchubhair, N Lettermore. 08/07/10. Chun cead
athru a dheanamh ar spas siopa agus storala go dha uimhir arasain chomh maith le oibreacha eile coimhdeach. 101019 O Griofa, Tomas, Clynagh. 08/07/10. Chun teach conaithe and coras searachais a thogail 101019 O Griofa, Tomas, Clynagh.08/07/10 01/09/10 New Application Description chun teach conaithe and coras searachais a thogail. 101020 Canavan, Sabrina, Ballygally. 08/07/10. To construct a house and effluent treatment system. 101021 Misteil, Tony Og Carna. 08/07/10. Chun cead sineadh a chuir as Cogaslann ceadaithe faoi unimh thag. 101022 B.O.M. Clifden Community School, Ardbear. 08/07/10. For demolition of the existing school building and associated pre-fabricated classroom structures and the construction of a new, part two storey and part three storey school building along with a new school entrance and associated internal access roads, parking spaces, landscaping and drainage works including an on site waste water treatment plant 101024 Feirm Mara Chonamara Teo, Cornamona. 09/07/10. Chun leathnuchan a chuir le monarchan proiseail eisc ar na Eastait ag Dubhachata. 101025 Colaiste Chamuis, Rosaveel. 09/07/10. Chun an coras eisilteach ata athraithe on ait a bhi ceadaithe agus an scagaire gainimh a chuaigh isteach in ait scagaire ithreach a choinneail. 101033 Folan, Mary Ann, Lettermullan. 12/07/10. Chun teach conaithe agus coras coireala fuiolluisce a thogail. 101041 McWilliams, Leo, Ballyconneely. 13/07/10. For retention for an existing entrance gatewate and access road to a proposed sewerage treatment plant, previously approved under planning ref.05/776. 101042 Spellman, Enda, Gortnaclassagh. 13/07/10. For retention of existing utility store and fenced enclosure as shown on plans together with all ancillary site development works. 101054 Joyce, John, Breenaun. 15/07/10. To demolish an existing agricultural shed and rebuild a new shed and domestic garage. 101055 Ni Dhonaill, Maire Bn, Teeranea. 15/07/10. Chun teach nua le dabhach searashas agus ionad ‘puraflo’ a thogail. 101058 Yuan Masson, Roisin Ni Loingsigh & Carrowroe. 16/07/10. Chun teach conaithe, coras searachais agus garaiste a thogail. 101062 Joyce, Michael, Glengowla West. 16/07/10. To construct an agricultural livestock shed. 101067 Rev Mother Abbess, Kylemore. 20/07/10. For a change of use of the school gym hall from a school assembly building to a place of public assembly and for its use as a chapel by the Benedictine nuns. 101089 Ni Domhnaill, Karen, Pollagh. 22/07/10. For a change of house type granted under planning ref 07/1434 including all ancillary site works and services. 101097 Ui Mhaoilain, J, Carrowroe. 22/07/10. Chun teach conaithe, garaiste agus coras searachais a thogail. 101103 Delaney, Gerard, Derrylea. 23/07/10. For minor changes to the front elevation of the existing dwelling house as well as a material change. 101119 Leonard, Andrew, Fough West. 27/07/10. To renovate existing dwelling house to form two no. town houses and to construct two no. town houses to rear of site. 101131 O Droighneain, Sean, Spiddle West. 28/07/10. Chun (a) 125sqm do bunurlar an fhoirgneamh ata a usaid mar cuid don teach loistin faoi lathair a athru go miondiola (b) an dion ata ar an teach faoi lathair a bhaint anuas agus dion nua a chuir air (c) 40sqm d’achar breise a chuir ar an dara hurlar (d) staighre ealaithe nua a chuir on dara hurlar agus (f ) athruithe a dheanamh ar na clonna.
Auto Store Move
unlike other similar treatments is formaldehyde-free. The entire treatment takes just 90 minutes and it can be used on natural or colour-treated hair. You can shampoo your hair the next day and the results last up to 12 weeks leaving hair smooth, shiny and frizz-free. For further information or a free consultation please contact the Hair Gallery on 095-21901.
D and N Auto Store and proprietor Pat O’ Dowd have recently moved to a new premises. The motor accessory and parts business is now located at Unit 5 (formerly Office Chat) on the Galway Road, between Carr’s Carpets and The Oil Company. The business has now also launched its new online Irish Number Plates service where customers can design their own license plates for weddings, birthdays, and all kinds of special events. Users can also see a preview of what their finished number plates will look like and postage and packing is included in the price. More information is available from Pat in store at D and N Auto Stores at 095-30615, online at www.irishnumberplates.ie and also on Facebook.
New Hair Treatment The ‘Brazilian Blowout’ is a new state of the art hair treatment for frizzy or unruly hair that is now exclusively available in Connemara at the Hair Gallery in Bridge Street. It is the only professional smoothing treatment that actually improves the health of the hair as it contains no harsh chemicals and
August 2010
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Lambert Puppets in Ballyconneely The acclaimed Lambert Puppet Theatre are making their first visit to Connemara this August when they will perform at Ballyconneely Community Hall on Saturday August 14th, in what promises to be a very special treat for local and visiting youngsters. The Lambert Puppet Theatre, featuring Paula Lambert, is now widely recognised as the Premier Touring Puppet Theatre Company in Ireland and also internationally renowned for its many fine productions in theatres throughout Ireland, the UK and Europe. From the beginning the Lambert family has been involved with RTÉ, working hugely ki on the h h l popular series Wanderly Wagon featuring Eugene Lambert as Judge. Paula Lambert was the ‘Bosco’ voice on TV for 17 years and indeed Bosco is still a firm favourite with the younger children and will make a nostalgic appearance in part of the show. ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ is a beautifully produced show with large puppets, colourful sets and exquisite lighting and is suitable for children up to ten years of age. The event has been organised by Alice Kennelly on behalf of the Ballyconneely Pony Show Committee in order to raise funds in support of this year’s 25th Anniversary Show which took place in July. Tickets are €10 per child with accompanying adult free and will be on sale from 2pm with the show starting at 3pm.
Local Author Meets Taoiseach
An Taoiseach, Brian Cowen T.D. took time out from his very busy schedule in July to meet with local author, Daniel Sammon of Renvyle. Daniel, whose book,
joined with Daniel and his extended family to reiterate what the Taoiseach said regarding the book. A tour of the Dáil was then provided by Frank Fahey T.D. and this was very much appreciated by the Salmon family, some of whom had travelled over from England for the great occasion. Photo: (L-r): Frank Fahey T.D., Mary Corbett-Joyce, Minister Éamon Ó Cuív T.D., An Taoiseach Brian Cowen and Connemara author Daniel Sammon. Photo courtesy of Mary-Corbett Joyce
Kane Sisters New Album
Liz and Yvonne Kane’s new album ‘Side by Side’ was launched at the Catskills Irish Arts Week in upstate New York in July. ‘Side by Side’ was not recorded in a studio; in fact most of it was recorded in Liz’s house in Letterfrack by producer Ronan Browne. They are joined by Patsy Broderick on piano, Mick Conneely on bouzouki, Dáithí Sproule on guitar and Ottawa Valley step dancer Nathan Pilatzke. Liz and Yvonne have kept this latest album very much local, with design
Hayes and Cahill in Concert
Masters of their crafts, fiddler Martin Hayes and guitarist Dennis Cahill are stopping in Clifden on their current tour on Saturday August 21st at 8pm in the Church of Ireland. Hayes is regarded as one of the most extraordinary talents to emerge in the world of Irish traditional music and is the recipient of major national and international awards: most recently the prestigious Gradam Ceoil, Musician of the Year 2008 from the Irish language television station TG4. Previous awards include Man of the Year from the American Irish Historical Society; Folk Instrumentalist of the Year from BBC Radio; a National Entertainment Award (the Irish ‘Grammy’); six All-Ireland fiddle championships before the age of 19. Dennis Cahill is a master guitarist, a native of Chicago born to parents from the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry. His spare, essential accompaniment to Martin Hayes’ fiddle is acknowledged as a major breakthrough for guitar in the Irish tradition. Music from the duo’s latest album ‘Welcome Home Again’ will feature as part of what promises to be an evening of superb entertainment for music lovers. Tickets are €20 and can be reserved by e-mailing boxoffice@clifdenartsweek.ie or will be available on the door on the night.
Irish Writing Workshops
and photography by local sisters Caroline and Aoife Herriott. On returning home from their US tour in August they will head straight into an Irish tour with Clare concertina player Edel Fox. ‘Side by Side’ will have two local launches, on Friday the 20th of August in Molly’s Bar in Letterfrack and on Monday the 20th of September at the Clifden Arts Festival. Their new
My Great Walk Across Ireland is selling very well, was invited by the Taoiseach to Government Buildings for a photo shoot in a trip organised by Frank Fahey TD. Daniel was accompanied by his wife Sheila and their family and extended family, together with Fianna Fail National Executive Member, Mary Corbett-Joyce to the Taoiseach’s Office. Brian Cowen was delighted to be associated with the book and praised Daniel for the manner in which he has commemorated all those who took part in the 1916 Rising. The Taoiseach said that it was a very long walk from Renvyle to Dublin but the result, the book, was a very interesting account of history both past and present. Minister Éamon Ó Cuív and Frank Fahey
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album can now be found in The Ben’s Music Shop, Clifden, Connemara Cottage Handcrafts, Moyard and Avoca, Letterfrack. www.thekanesisters.com.
As part of the ongoing Cló Iar-Chonnacht 25th Anniversary Celebrations the Connemara Publishing Company are running two National Workshops for Irish-language writers, one in Trinity College Dublin on September 18th and one in Connemara on Saturday October 2nd. These workshops will be geared mainly towards young and/or new writers who haven’t had a book published but who display writing ability. Spaces will also be given to a handful of established writers to the mutual benefit of both groups. Writers who are interested in participating in the workshops are invited to submit a sample of their work: a short story, five to six poems or a short excerpt from a novel (novels for teenagers included) to Cló Iar-Chonnacht’s Assistant Editor, Aodh Ó Gallchóir at the address below before Friday 3rd September, 2010. Each workshop will accept ten participants. Applicants are asked to indicate which workshop they wish to attend, Connemara or Dublin, on their application. Space permitting some writers may be able to attend both workshops. There is no charge for the workshops, however, participants will be responsible for any costs incurred in attending, travel, accommodation etc. should such expenses arise. For more information contact Aodh Ó Gallchóir or Micheál Ó Conghaile, Cló Iar-Chonnacht, Indreabhán, Co. na Gaillimhe 091-593-362.
September Art School
Roundstone based artist Rosie McGurran is hosting a two day Art School event in Roundstone village from September 10th-12th. Learners and improvers will have full day tuition in still life drawing and painting as well as a walk and talk through the village and its visual arts history and heritage. For more information contact Rosie on 095-35076 or 087-679-9559.
August 2010
Connemara ArtsView
Ealain í gCasla
Seoladh Macalla Ceoil, taispeántas de shaothair ealaíne le Meadhbh Ní Eidhin in Aonad Cart-
attended the classes during the week all taking part. Further information from 087-744-3531 up to 5 pm and 094-954-4163 after 5 pm or go to www.ceolnalocha.com.
Joe Dolan Tribute
The Official Joe Dolan Tribute Show featuring Adrian and Ray Dolan, nephews of the late great entertainer and members of Joe’s backing band will perform many of the late great singer’s hits at the Connemara Gateway Hotel in Oughterard on August 13th. The Dolan Band features the vocal talents of Karen Karroll performing four decades of Joe’s hits and more and more. As the old saying goes ‘there’s no show like a Joe show’, but this is the next best thing! For more information see www.joedolan.com or contact the Connemara Gateway at 091-552-328. an Oi Oireachtais Co. na G Gaillimhe, llainne i ht i í gCasla, C l C illi h Dé Céadaoin, 14 Iúil. Roghnaíodh Meadhbh Ní Eidhin mar Evalaíontóir na hÉireann 2010 le haghaidh Féile Idircheilteach Lorient sa Bhriotáin agus seo é an chéad léiriú den saothar a bheidh ar taispeáint aici ag an bhféile. Pictiúr le Seán Ó Mainnín.
Fureys & Arthur Return
The Furey Brothers and Davey Arthur will be making their second appearance in the Station House Theatre, Clifden on Friday 6th August. George and Eddie Furey and Davey Arthur have delighted audiences on their tours in recent years and have been releasing a
new CD every year. They are currently touring with superb musicians Luke Crowley and Dominic Leech. The Fureys & Davey Arthur are responsible for some of the most stirring music ever to capture the public imagination. Their folk based music has received standing ovations in some of the biggest concert halls of the world and they credit their musical ability to their parents, Ted and Nora, who were well known musicians themselves. Over the years some of their greatest admirers have ranged from the neighbours they grew up with in Ballyfermot to the top sports people and politicians of the world and they have performed for leaders such as former Australian Prime Minister John Howard, Irish President Mary McAleese and Pope John Paul. Tony Blair has publicly stated that his favourite peace song of all time is the Fureys “Green Fields of France”. Tickets are €25 and can be booked in advance at 095-30303.
Féile Ceol na Locha
The annual Ceol na Locha Music Festival takes place in Coláiste Mhuire Tourmakeady from Monday 9th -Friday 13th August. Students come from various parts of the country to attend classes and take part in the various workshops and music sessions held in the local pubs during the festival. The aim of the Festival is to preserve the Traditional culture and language of Tourmakeady and the surrounding areas. Classes in the following instruments take place during the week: accordion, tin whistle, fiddle, banjo and mandolin, flute, bodhrán, concertina and Irish songs and conversation. A Country Market will be held in the Halla Pobal on Monday, as well as workshops in woodturning, bodhrán and Sean Nós Dancing. The festival ends with a concert in Coláiste Mhuire on Friday with the students who
Connemara ArtsView
Hit Magic Show
The Ed Masters Magic Variety Show at the Station House Theatre has been delighting both kids and parents alike every Wednesday and is a perfect distraction for kids looking to be entertained. Ed has been practicing magic since he was 12 years old and is constantly updating his tricks. He also adds a unique comedy aspect to his show to help draw the children in, although one part of the show in particular drew a lots of gasps and murmurs of “how did he do that?” from
starting at 8:30pm, followed by adults and a great mix of music and dance. September 10th will see the Comhaltas taking the ferry to Inishbofin for a session at Day’s Hotel and we hope as many members and followers as possible will join us there for the night, which promises to be might craic! Marie Walsh
Hilarious Hypnotism
The comedy hypnotist Adrian Knight has had audiences rolling in the aisles and shaking with laughter as he involves participants in his hilarious stage show weekly at the Station House Theatre. To date, audience members have danced like ballerinas and marched like soldiers while hypnotised . The intrigue of Adrian’s hypnotic powers quickly turns to laughter as the show how really gets gogo ing. As Adrian himself says “The audience turn out to be the true stars of the show!” Adrian Knight is performing at the Station House Theatre every Thursday in August at 9pm, with tickets at €20 for a guaranteed great night out.
Super Valu Photo Contest
While it may not have been a face one would expect to see, this Neolithic tomb in Cleggan was chosen as the winner of the July Kavanagh’s SuperValu Photo Contest. On close inspection the outline of a face can be clearly seen in the stone, and it prompted John Claró, who took the photograph, to ponder whether it might be a sailor from the Falcon Blanco Mediano, an Armada ship which was wrecked there in a storm.
the older audience members! The show features many well loved characters, live animals (a personal family favourite was Bentley the Macaw Parrot) as well as a large amount of audience participation. Ed and his team present a really fun and exciting magic show that is highly recommended for both young and old. It will continue to run at the Station House Theatre every Wednesday in August at 5pm with doors open at 4.30 (early arrival is advised). Paula Bann Photo: Nicole and Jake Bann were lucky enough to have their photo taken with magician Ed Masters, Dora the Explorer, Fifi and Barney after seeing the Magic Variety Show at the Station House Theatre in July.
Comhaltas Sessions
The Clifden Comhaltas July monthly session at Vickers Bar was a great success and enjoyed a fantastic turnout. Mick, Declan and Sharon ensured that everyone was very well looked after and a great time was had by all. The Comhaltas will perform in Claddaghduff Hall on Wednesday August 11th as a finale to the Cleggan Claddaghduff Festival of the Sea 2010. With many musicians and dancers of all ages and talents taking part it promises to be a great night, with the entertainment starting at 9pm. The Clifden Comhaltas August monthly session will take place at Mullarkey’s Bar in Foyle’s Hotel on Friday August 27th with as usual, the youth session
August 2010
The theme for August is ‘Connemara Pony Shows’ and with some already over and more to come there should be plenty of great photo opportunities, so get snapping! As usual the great prize of a €50 Super Valu Shopping Voucher is on offer and the winning photo will be displayed in Super Valu, Clifden and online at www.connemaraview.com. Photos must be original, have not been previously published and be relevant to Connemara. It is open to all ages and copies of photos should be kept as they will not be returned. Entries may be dropped to the Photo Competition Box next to the express till at Super Valu Clifden, posted to Connemara View, Clifden, Co. Galway or e-mailed to news@connemaraview.com (approx 1MB in size) by Wednesday August 25th.
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Paddling & Tugging for Clifden Lifeboat!
There were thrills and spills galore at Clifden Beach on Saturday July 31st when hordes of competitors descended on the bay to take part in the first annual RNLI Raft Race fundraiser. There was stiff competition in three heats before the grand finale, which was won by ‘The Unsinkables’ with the Clifden Lifeboat’s own Robert King at the helm. They were presented with their trophy by Nessa Joyce and MC Peter Carey. (Top two photos left). The Pub Team competition was won by Team Mullarkey’s (photo below left). The Junior section was won by Team Murtagh (photo below right). An equally competitive Tug of War between members of the Clifden Lifeboat Crew and the Clifden Fire Brigade followed, with the RNLI lads prevailing 2-0 in a sporting and highly entertaining contest. The professional Connemara Tug of War teams headed by Des Wallace and Jack Lydon also competed, displaying the impressive and exciting skills of all the participants in the popular sport. Live music was provided throughout the day and dancing and prize giving finished up the day’s events. Due to the support of all participating individuals, local businesses and the efforts of all the Clifden Lifeboat crew and fundraising volunteers involved, the day was a tremendous success and to date has raised in the region of €4,000 for the Clifden Lifeboat.
Photo above: Dancing on the gig rig. Below (l-r): RNLI Fundraisers Geraldine Heanue, Bernie Davis and Anne Marie Bennett.
Tug of War
Photos top (l-r): The Clifden Lifeboat Crew vs. the Clifden Fire Brigade. Photos bottom: Professional Connemara Tug of War Teams compete led by Des Wallace (left) and Jack Lydon.
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August 2010
Connemara View Newspaper
Racing Fever Hits Connemara
Huge crowds descended on Connemara’s two homegrown racing events at Errismore in Ballyconneely and Omey Strand on the August Bank Holiday weekend. Large numbers of visiting horses, jockeys and trainers joined a significant number of local participants ensuring that two great days of racing action were enjoyed by all, leaving many happy punters and spectators satisfied. Photos right (l-r): The local pony race at Errismore had a thrilling finish as TJ Berry from Kingstown, Clifden on board Sean King’s Darragh, held on to take the win by a nose from Eve Bassac on Joey for the second year in a row. Also taking part were Josephine Conroy Baker, Laura Bassac and Ross McNamara and the race was as thrilling as any other on the day for the local heroes and the huge crowd roaring them on. King Kenny (No. 11) mainly owned by Emer McNamara (also involved Kate McNamara and Liam Nugent) was placed in the 15h at Errismore ridden by Ross Coakley, but was beaten by Megan Carberry on Bins n Kids. In a close and exciting contest, Ronaldo owned by the McNamara’s of Goulane won the 1 ¼ at Omey in what was his last race as he is now set to retire. (L-r): Mickey McNamara, Kate McNamara, jockey Ross Coakley, Emer and Joe McNamara. Photos below (l-r): The bookies were doing great business but were forced to pay out when local winner Ronaldo romped home at Omey. The youngest rider at Errismore was Ross McNamara from Ballyconneely who rode Battleship in the local race. Gabriel McNamara’s local Ballyconneely horse Pebble Beach finished second by a length to Monday’s Joy in the Open Horse Race 1 mile finish at Errismore. Jim’s Girl (far right) won the 14.2 at both Errismore and Omey with Ricky Doyle on board and owned by Kevin O’Toole (right) of Oughterard. Below right: The sand of Omey was taken over by huge crowds and many youngsters who were as interested in building sand castles as the adults were in the racing! Photos by Patrick Howard Photography, Aoife Herriot Photography, Catherine Pryce, Tom Broderick Photos and Priscilla McNamara.
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August 2010
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Pooches on Parade in Roundstone
The popular Roundstone All Ireland Dog Show took place at the Farrell’s Field Showgrounds on Bank Holiday Monday August 2nd. After 20 classes featuring four legged friends of all shapes and sizes, the Supreme Champion was eventually named as ‘Mossy’, a rare Polish Lowland sheepdog owned by the Farragher family of Clifden. There were also great activities for kids including monster bouncy castles and a go karting track which were a big hit on the day. Photos by Tom Broderick Photos
The Reserve Champion at the Roundstone all Ireland Dog Show was Martina Keenan’s Rottweiler Ella, while Martin Farragher’s Polish Lowland Sheepdog Mossy was named as Supreme Champion of the show. They are pictured here receiving their prizes from Show organizer Paddy ‘Yank’ McDonagh.
Above: George McQuinn from Leam, Oughterard with his Pomeranian Scruffy who won First Place in the Toy Dog and the Dog I’d Most Like To Take Home classes. Rica Farragher and Bonnie, winners of the Dog Handled by a Child under 8 class. Above l-r: Kieran Molloy and Trigger who won the Retrievers class. Claire O’ Brien and Ruben, winner of the Cross Bred dog class. Natasha Nee and her winning Labrador Hera. Left: Norma Campbell and her Lhasa Apso Hayley, winners of the Veteran Dogs (8 years+ class). Right (l-r): Tara Lally and Trigger, winners of the Puppy class - Klaus Freitmann and his winning Weimaraner Islay. Below: Karting at the Roundstone Dog Show.
Photos (l-r): Yvonne Casburn from Moycullen won first place with her Tibetan Terrier Sophie . Paddy Joe Lydon from Letterfrack whose Jack Russell Buddy won the Jack Russell class. Buddy is a 3 times All Ireland Champion and won the Connacht Champion’s prize at the Maam Cross Sheep Shearing event’s Dog Show earlier this year. Tory Irvine and her winning Bassett Hound Hugo.
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August 2010
Connemara View Newspaper
Carna Debs 2010 The students of Scoil Phobail Mhic Dara, Carna celebrated their Debs Ball at the Claregalway Hotel in July. Back (l-r): Donal Lydon, Seán Einniu, Colm O Cathain, Mícheal O’Cualáin, Paraic O Gaora, Stephen Keaney, Paul Flatherty,
Ciarán O’Cillín, PJ Canavan, Joseph Mullkerins, Ronan Canavan, Paraic O’Cualáin. Middle (l-r): Keith Ridge, Gary Dundass, Bryan Nee, Mairtin John McDonagh, Sarah Mullkerins, Muiread Breathnach, Colm O’Neasa, Joe Breathnach, Murchadha O’Cualáin, Ciarán Bolger.
Front (l-r): Siobhán Joyce, Anne McDonagh, Sadhlóg Ní Chualáin, Adrienne Ní Chualáin, Shibeal Flatherty, Brenda Mullkerins, Linda Flatherty, Marie Ridge, Martina Ní Fhlatharta, Mairead Joyce, Kate Ní Chualáin. Photo courtesy of Tom Broderick Photography
Birthday Success (photo right): Leona Savage of Goulane, Clifden recently received a Distinction in Childcare. She is also wished a very Happy 30th Birthday by her family. Photo courtesy of Edel Savage. 94th Birthday (photo below right): Mary Courcey of Cleggan recently celebrated the great milestone of her 94th birthday. She is pictured below right at a celebration at her home with her family (l-r) Marty, Brian, Eileen and Michael. Photo courtesy of Eileen Mulkerrin. Bonny Baby (photo below): The winner of the Bonny Baby under 12 months at the Ballyconneely Pony Show on Sunday July 18th was Maeve Mitchell, daughter of Leigh Birchmore and Sean Mitchell of Calla. Photo courtesy of Ann Mitchell
Wedding Bells Above left: Paul Clancy of Clifden and Karen O’ Connor were married on July 10th in St. Joseph’s Church, Clifden with a reception afterwards at the Westwood Hotel in Galway. Photo courtesy of Padraic Lyden Above right: Olivia Kerrigan and Stephen McDonagh of Renvyle were married on July 3rd in Christ the King Church in Tullycross with reception at Mulranny Park Hotel in Westport.Photo courtesy of Padraic Lyden Left: Congratulations to Kevin Gavin of Goulane, Clifden and Laura Griffin of Dooneen who were married on June 25th in St Remy de Provence, France, where they were joined by a large contingent of family and friends who travelled for the occasion. Photo by Daniel Diaz Below: Patricia Coleman and Pat Phelan were married in the Church of St. James, Cashel on July 9th with reception afterwards in Rosleague Manor Hotel. Photo courtesy of Padraic Lyden
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