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Heavy flooding in Sallins over the weekend...
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Photos courtesy Gill Prenderville
Upcoming Entertainments at the Naas Court Hotel include:
Venue: Naas Court Hotel
Date: 2009-11-27
Title: Friday's in the court.
Description: Stevy T plays the best in charts and oldies, outdoor heated garden, Live music in the piano bar.
Clubs
Website: www.naascourthotel.com
Cost:
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Venue: Naas Court Hotel
Date: 2009-11-28
Title: Access All Areas
Description: Access All Areas, Night Club, Pian Bar, Disco Bar and heated garden.
Pubs & Clubs
Website:
Cost: 10
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Venue: Naas Court Hotel
Date: 2009-11-29
Title: The Lillies Live Music
Description: Brand new to Naas Court every Sunday night is our new House Band "The Lillies" starting this Sunday and every Sunday from 10pm till late...!! The Lillies play a mixture of tunes and are resident in Dublin Famous Lillies Bordello Club on a monday nite...!!
Live Music
Website: www.naascourthotel.com
Cost:
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Venue: Naas Court Hotel
Date: 2009-12-02
Title: Karaoke night with Carter D and friends.
Description: Kildare's best Karaoke night every wednesday, with Danny and Steven followed by DJ till late.
Clubs
Website: www.naascourthotel.com
Cost:
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Venue: Naas Court Hotel
Date: 2009-12-03
Title: Music Bar With DJ Till Late
Description: Music in the bar till late.
Website: www.naascourthotel.com
Cost:
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Venue: Naas Court Hotel
Date: 2009-12-04
Title: Friday's in the court.
Description: Stevy T plays the best in charts and oldies, outdoor heated garden, Live music in the piano bar.
Website: www.naascourthotel.com
Cost:
Riverbank Arts Centre is offering you a chance to WIN a pair of tickets to see Dead Cat Bounce.
Simply email your name and contact details to boxoffice@riverbank.ie with the answer to the following question:
Name the RTE 2 TV series which starred Dead Cat Bounce
Entries to reach us by 5pm Monday 7th December
Full details of Concert here...
REVIEWS:
"Tightly written, flawless timing, barnstorming."
The Sunday Times"Genius - Go see this comedy hour of power.”
Three Weeks"Comedically perfect: beautifully conceived, incisively written and superbly performed.”
The Dubliner"A sketch show with a brain and a black sense of humour"
Chortle"So spectacular that the audience were howling with laughter and begging for more”
Edinburgh Festivals Magazine.
Kildare North Fianna Fail TD, Michael Fitzpatrick has congratulated local woman Triona Byrne from Celbridge on winning a Science Foundation Ireland/Dell You Women in Engineering Scholarship Award.
“Triona is studying Engineering in Trinity College and is one of 10 winners nationwide. The Scholarship Award is designed to raise the profile of engineering among women and to encourage more women into the sector.”
“The Scholarship is worth approximately €20,000 to Triona which I know will provide great support to her as she continues her studies.”
“As well as financial support, Dell will provide Triona with a notebook computer and a research active mentor will also be assigned throughout her undergraduate career and she will have the opportunity to spend the summer months in a research internship in university or industry.”
“Triona was one of 56 applicants this year for 10 Awards so this really is a great achievement for Triona and for her teachers at St. Wolstan’s Community College in Celbridge.”
“I am delighted that the interest in the Scholarship Awards was so strong this year. Women are traditionally under-represented in the field of engineering so it is essential that every encouragement possible is given to them. The Government has recognised that the development of the smart economy is vital for our economic recovery and development in the future. The smart economy will require more engineers of all disciplines so it is fitting that women are being encouraged with these Scholarship Awards.”
“I wish Triona every success with her studies and her career,” concluded Deputy Fitzpatrick.
The Leinster Print studio annual exhibition will take place on Saturday and Sunday 28 and 29 November from 10 am – 6 pm in the new parish hall, Main Street, Clane, Co Kildare. The exhibition will be officially opened by the County Kildare Leader Partnership on Friday 20th November from 6- 8 pm with a wine reception.
The Leinster print studio, set up in 1998 by Margaret Becker of Loughanure, Clane, was originally housed in a small room upstairs in the old girls school and then moved to one room in its present location opposite the old convent which is now the new parish centre. This space was gradually refurbished and extended with the help of very generous grants from Kelt and Kildare county council and now boasts wonderful facilities for printmaking for its members and for members of the local community who are interested in printmaking techniques. The new parish centre has been extensively refurbished over the past year and the LPS is delighted to have such a suitable place in which to exhibit.
‘We are delighted to be able to host this exhibition in the newly refurbished parish hall,’ said Damian Mc Caffrey, the parish manager.
The LPS has 50 members from all over Kildare and the surrounding counties and the studio has facilities for etching, aquatint, photo etch, lithography and relief printing. It also prides itself on being a green studio in trying to use materials which are not detrimental to the environment.
In 2009, the studio has had very successful exhibitions in the Graphic studio, temple bar, the Space Factory, Capel St., Rua Red gallery, Tallaght, Stroud print Biennale in Gloucester, Impac International exhibition, Bristol, and its exhibition 'Le Cheile' is currently touring a number of prestigious galleries in south Australia in an international collaboration.
‘It’s also good to be able to show our work once a year in the community where the work is being developed and produced,’ said Pamela de Brí, from Prosperous. Margaret Becker said that it was wonderful to have such a lovely space in which to exhibit which is also so convenient to the studio and right in the centre of Clane and expressed her delight that the parish is so supportive of the arts.
Kildare South Fianna Fáil TD Seán Ó Fearghail has welcomed the confirmation that 103 primary schools across Kildare are to receive grant funding this week to carry out small-scale structural and mechanical works.
The funding was announced by his colleague, the Minister for Education and Science, Batt O’Keeffe TD, this morning. More than 3,200 primary schools are to get grant payments across the country in the €28 million scheme.
“Each primary school in Kildare will receive a grant of €5,500. There is also a payment of €18.50 per mainstream pupil and €74 per student with special needs.”
“So, for example, a 50-pupil school will get €6,425.”
“The annual grant for all primary schools allows them to carry out minor works on school buildings without needing to deal directly with the Department.”
“The funds must be spent on the physical infrastructure of the school or on items of furniture and equipment for educational use including information technology-related equipment.”
“This is further proof of the Government’s commitment to investing in our schools and in our young people and I know that schools in south Kildare will put the funding to good use,” concluded Deputy Ó Feargháil.
Works covered include improvements to school buildings and grounds, improvements to or replacement of mechanical and electrical services, the purchase of standard furniture, physical education equipment, floor coverings, window blinds and information technology-related equipment.
SPECIAL OFFER - Riverbank Arts Centre and Music Network Promotion
**TWO Shows for the Price of ONE**
FIDIL
Award Winning Trad Trio
Saturday 28th November 8pm
Tickets €15/€12
AND
Carducci String Quartet
Saturday 5th December, 8pm
Tickets €15/€12
**TWO Shows for the Price of ONE**
*Offer based on purchase of a full price ticket
An unbeatable Offer…€15 for TWO Fantastic Shows
Don’t miss out
BOOK NOW!
Call Box Office on 045 448327
Join us for a Cranberry Open Day at the Bog of Allen Nature Centre on Sunday 29th November from 12 noon - 4pm.
Throughout the Summer and Autumn the Irish Peatland Conservation Council (IPCC) have hosted a series of wildlife talks and walks as part of their Féile an Dúlra (Festival of Nature). Cranberry day will mark the end of Féile an Dúlra for 2009 and there is something for everyone on the day.
Dr. Catherine O'Connell, CEO of IPCC will present a cranberry themed slide show followed by a cranberry tasting session, the peatland museum and gardens will be open all day for you to browse at your leisure, nature crafts making natural christmas tree decorations will be a fun activity for younger visitors and the nature shop will be open all day so you can pick up that perfect gift for family or friends this Christmas.
For further information contact the centre on 045-860133. All welcome.
From November 2009, a new service delivering one-to-one support for adults with learning difficulties will be available in North-Kildare and the surrounding areas. The Dara Community Support Programme will provide tailored supports to people who wish to develop an independent social life by becoming involved in their local community.
“Social inclusion has benefits for everyone” says Dara Community Worker Artur Skuratowicz “Whilst this particular programme is aimed at people who are not currently linked in with other special services, we anticipate that in the long-term, the outcomes will also impact positively on the wider communities involved”.
The Dara Community Support Programme is being provided by DARA Residential Services. It is being funded by HSE and led by Dr Bob McCormack. A core focus of the programme is to reach people who are socially isolated and to empower participants to build new friendships, develop new interests and explore ways in which they can enjoy rich and rewarding social experiences.
Under the new programme, a Dara Community Worker will meet individually with participants to discuss their needs and experiences and begin supporting them in their new community involvement at weekends and on week-day evenings. The role of the Community Support Worker is to help participants access information, plan activities, meet people and develop social pursuits that are sustainable into the future.
Each programme will be person-centred and led by the participants themselves, allowing people to lead the life of their choice and to reach their full potential by living and socialising according to their own abilities.
There is no fee associated with the support service however participants are expected to meet the costs of their own travel and expenses. The DARA Community Support Worker will help participants plan affordable and accessible activities in their local community.
To make a referral or to obtain further information, interested people can contact Dr Bob McCormack at the DARA Community Support Programme on 01 627 1484.
Homevalue have a very special occasion this Sunday (November 22nd). The Heineken Cup which was won by Leinster will be at their store in Christmas Clearance Store in Whitelands Business Park, Co Kildare from 4.30pm until 6pm.
We are inviting our customers and friends to come along and get your picture taken holding this much sought after sporting trophy. Don’t miss your opportunity to come along and see the trophy won by Leinster in a match that made sporting history.
2009 was the final season for for Kildare County FC as a member of the League of Ireland, as the club announced that it was going into liquidation.
The following message was posted on the club's website:
"The Board of Management of Kildare County F.C. regrets to announce that the Club has played its last game. Since the resignation of former members earlier this season, the remaining personnel of the Board of Management have worked night and day to try and resolve the Club’s problems.
The Club has examined all options to stay afloat but unfortunately have no option other than to put the Club into liquidation.
The inception in season 2002 of Kildare County F.C. was the realisation of the dreams of many people in the region to bring League of Ireland Soccer to Kildare. The Club commenced in a blaze of glory appointing Dermot Keely as manager and reaching the Final of the 1st Division Cup in its first year.
Unfortunately the Club was unable at various levels to establish a sufficient base of support. That combined with a number of legacy issues led the Club to its present position where it is no longer in a position to meet current liabilities.
The Board of Management would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the Club’s magnificent supporters who followed them through thick and thin and hope that they enjoyed some marvellous memories. We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to the Kildare County F.C. Official Supporters Club and to everybody at Newbridge Town F.C."
Date: 1st December 2009
Celbridge Clinic
Venue: St. Raphaels, Clane Road
Times: 3:00pm - 5:00pm
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Date: 22nd - 23rd December 2009
Athy Clinic
Venue: Church of Ireland Hall
Times: 4:30pm - 8:30pm
Local Fianna Fáil TD and Convenor of the Oireachtas Enterprise Committee, Michael Fitzpatrick has confirmed that eligibility criteria of the Government’s Work Placement Programme are being relaxed from this December.
“This Programme is now aimed at providing nine months of work experience to 2,000 unemployed people, while they continue to maintain their social welfare entitlements.”
“The changes being introduced will improve the accessibility of the Programme by amending its eligibility criteria for both the participants and the firms providing the placements.”
“I know that the Minister for Labour, Dara Calleary has worked with the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Mary Coughlan TD, on this initiative to maximise the effectiveness of the Programme giving participants the opportunity to gain valuable work experience.”
“The changes will allow for applications from recipients of most social welfare payments, including Job Seekers’ Allowance and Job Seekers’ Benefit. Unemployed graduates who are not receiving a social welfare payment will also now be eligible to apply including 2009 graduates. In addition, the period, for which participants have to be in receipt of a social welfare payment in order to be eligible, has been reduced from 6 months to 3 months.”
“The criteria for firms providing placements have also widened. The Programme will be open to all sectors of the economy including, the private, public, and now the community and voluntary sectors. The Department of Finance will issue a Circular in the coming weeks on the operation of the Programme in the public sector. The requirement for a firm to have at least 10 employees has been removed. Previously firms could only participate if they did not have redundancies in the previous 6 months. This constraint has been reduced to 3 months, if level of redundancies in the last three months was less than 5% of the workforce. The duration of the work placement has also been increased to a maximum of 9 months.”
“This Programme offers jobseekers and graduates the opportunity to gain valuable experience in their chosen field which is crucial in the current difficult economic environment. We need to get people out working, in training and in work placements like this where possible so that they can upskill, retrain and be ready for the upturn when it comes.”
“FÁS will continue to manage the Work Placement Programme and interested parties should revert to the FÁS website, www.fas.ie, for further information or their local FÁS Employment Services offices or alternatively they can call the FÁS freephone number 1800 611 116,” concluded Deputy Fitzpatrick.
Kildare schools are to get a major ICT boost as each classroom will get a computer under the ‘smart schools’ programme launched by the Department of Education according to local Fianna Fail TD, Michael Fitzpatrick.
“Every Kildare classroom is to get a teaching laptop, software and a digital projector over the next three years as part of a €150 million ‘Smart Schools’ plan.”
“The plan is designed to ensure that there is effective investment in ICT in schools.”
“It will help pupils to become familiar with ICT at a young age and build their confidence and skills.”
“The ICT will work as both an educational and motivational tool for the pupils and will help to enhance their learning.”
“This kind of training and education is essential if we are to build the smart economy of the future.”
“I am delighted that the Minister for Education is working closely with Paul Rellis, the Managing Director of Microsoft Ireland, members of ICT Ireland, the Telecommunications and Internet Federation, the Irish Software Association, as well as Government Departments to identify the needs of pupils and teachers and maximise opportunities with this investment.”
“Primary schools in Kildare will be prioritised for grants, benefiting from the €22 million that will go to primary schools nationwide before the end of the year.”
“Funding for post-primary schools will be made available early in the New Year and these schools will be asked to prioritise the purchase of equipment for the classrooms used for teaching maths.”
“I am also pleased to see that in the future that Department of Education will put in place a central procurement arrangement for ICT equipment that will ensure the best possible value for money.”
“I look forward to seeing the positive results of this investment,” concluded Deputy Fitzpatrick
RTE CONCERT ORCHESTRA with CARA O'SULLIVAN: JOY TO THE WORLD
Joy to the World, a musical celebration full of classical and popular Christmas favourites, will take place on Friday 4 December in St Conleth’s Church, Newbridge.
Presented by the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, under its Principal Conductor David Brophy, with internationally acclaimed soprano Cara O’Sullivan and Irish chamber choir New Dublin Voices, the concerts will include much-loved songs Winter Wonderland and White Christmas, excerpts from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker and much more.
Tickets are €20 (concession €18) and are available to book from Newbridge Parish Centre, 045 431 121.
Cara O’Sullivan, one of Ireland’s premier sopranos will sing festive classics such as O Little Town of Bethlehem, Hark, the Herald Angels Sing and Silent Night.
Orchestral offerings of Christmas Fantasy and Sleigh Ride are sure to sound even more atmospheric in the peaceful setting of St Conleth’s Church. Harry’s Wondrous World, one of the recognisable pieces from the movie Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, will delight younger audience members while no Christmas concert is complete without a rendition of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.
Joining Cara O’Sullivan shall be New Voices, a leading Irish chamber choir that has represented Ireland at international choral festivals. Accompanied by the orchestra, the choir will evoke memories of Christmases past with their rendition of Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire and Joy to the World.
A blog containing up to date information about planning in Kildare
A new blog has been developed focusing on planning in County Kildare. Mr. David Mulcahy, a planning consultant in Athgarvan, Newbridge has established the blog to provide up to date information about planning in the county.
The blog includes a list of newspaper articles concerning planning in Kildare, synopsis of decisions by An Bord Pleanála regarding appeals in the county and details of important dates for making submissions to the review of the County Development Plan and various Local Area Plans.
In addition, the blog also includes a section where members of the public can submit general queries on planning in Kildare.
Mr. Mulcahy says “Keeping up to date with planning issues in Kildare can often be very difficult and many people don’t know where to start looking. The blog streamlines information from a range of sources, allowing people to quickly find out about
any significant planning issues where they live in the county”.
The web address for the blog is www.kildareplanner.wordpress.com
The biggest ever field for a round of the Jondol Junior Rallycross championship lined up at Mondello Park on Sunday, but despite the increased competition it was Naas racer Simon Quinn who once again proved to be the class of the field. The fourteen year old, one of the youngest drivers in the championship, won all four of his races to take his third outright win from three starts this season and finish 2009 on a high.
With sixteen drivers lining up for the heats, for the first time there would not only be a capacity grid for the 'B Final' but also one driver would not make it through to the finals at all. With the larger entry the Junior heats needed to be run in three groups and it was Tallaght's Niall Murray with his Starlet who set the pace in group one. Quinn won the second race with a time four seconds quicker than Murray's to take the lead and then had to wait while Northern Irish visitor Andrew Patterson, back in his Mini after a number of events driving a Micra, took victory in the third race. When all three heats were run the order was Quinn quickest ahead of Murray, Newry's Mark Francis (Micra) and Maynooth's Paul Barrett (Mini), with Patterson's time only good enough for fifth.
In the second round of heat's Barrett drove well to win the first race from third on the grid setting a time quick enough for third place. Quinn came from behind in the second race to beat Francis and both drivers were fast enough to eclipse Barrett. Another impressive drive from Patterson in the third race saw him move from fifth on the grid through to third place early on, before passing two more cars on the final lap to take his second win of the day. Patterson's time however was once again only good enough for fifth. Naas resident Sam Kinirons, who had retired from the first heat took fourth place with his Mini to boost his hopes of overcoming his non-finish and qualifying for the 'A' Final.
The first race of the third heat saw Barrett add another win to his tally, but only just, as he was less than a second ahead of Murray at the line. Barrett set his quickest time of the day on his way to victory, four seconds better than his previous best, but in the second race the flying Quinn took advantage of a clear track ahead of him to beat that time by a hugely impressive five seconds. With Patterson missing form the grid in race three, Meath man Michael Cahill, who had followed him home in two earlier races, took his first win of the day and sixth place in the times. Ahead of him were Quinn, Barrett, Murray, Francis & Kinirons.
The 'B' Final battle which would decide the last place on the 'A' Final grid, got off to a bad start when two separate incidents on the first lap led to a red flag. The restart looked like it could have been heading the same way as Aaron Clarke and James Fleming then set about each other on the way to turn two. Clarke came off worst in the incident getting stuck on the grass but the Marshals got him going again to keep the race alive. The remainder of the race was unusually processional apart from Clarke's recovery drive which saw him snatch seventh place on the last lap. The remainder of the order was static from lap one and it was Paul McArdle who took the win and progressed into the main event.
Despite the drivers best efforts and some close racing on lap one, the 'A' Final was also very processional. At the front Quinn led away from pole and set fastest lap after fastest lap on his way to a huge winning margin of five and a half seconds. Mark Francis and Paul Barrett filled the podium positions ahead of round two winner Niall Murray as all three circulated close together but without any serious challenges materialising. Quinn now heads the standings with three maximum scores ahead of a tightly grouped pack made up of Barrett, Patterson, Murray and Francis. The championship now takes a break until early 2010, with the remaining three races being decided during February and March.
NATIONAL CAMPAIGN FOR THE ARTS AIMS TO PRESENT PETITION OF 10,000 SIGNATURES TO GOVERNMENT
November 2009 - The National Campaign for the Arts is looking for 10,000 signatories for its online petition calling for the maintenance of current levels of funding to the Arts Council as well as full representation of the arts at senior cabinet level. The petition, which has already been signed by over 5,000 people, is to be presented to Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Martin Cullen TD, prior to budget day on Wednesday 9 December 2009.
The Campaign, which launched in late September, asserts that the arts are fundamental to Ireland’s economic recovery and notes that thousands of arts workers and others will be out of a job should funding levels to the Arts Council be dramatically reduced.
Tania Banotti of Theatre Forum, the organization which has spearheaded the Campaign, states, “The extensive impact of the arts on the Irish economy can not be under-estimated. Recent economic reports have shown that nearly 27,000 jobs are created through the arts and that this sector plays a significant influential role across all creative industries. Funding the arts in Ireland is not solely about supporting an outlet for our society’s creative expression or maintaining an industry for which we’ve gained a glowing global reputation. It’s about investing in the future of our country.”
Speaking about this campaign, Hugh Murray, manager of Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge, urged all Kildare residents to log on and support this petition, ‘Arts and culture play a vital role in all towns and villages throughout Ireland. It is important to make the government realise that people in Newbridge, Naas and throughout Kildare want to maintain a high quality arts sector in the county.’
Those interested can sign the petition at http://www.petitiononline.com/ncfa/petition.html or find out further information about the National Campaign for the Arts on www.ncfa.ie
Grow It Yourself Ireland (GIY) recently established a Kildare group that will hold its first meeting next Tuesday, 17th Nov at 6pm in Athy library.
GIY meetings are free and open to people interested in food growing at all levels, they meet monthly to talk, exchange tips, knowledge and skills.
Michael Kelly, founder of GIY will be the guest speaker at the first meeting.
Information:
Mary Ledwidge: 087 2372664 or thewoodenhouse@live.ie
Web: www.giyireland.com
Kildare firms should examine if they are eligible for a new Government offer to support jobs which are viable but under threat by the current economic challenges, according to Fianna Fáil TD and Convenor of the Oireachtas Enterprise Committee, Michael Fitzpatrick.
“Following confirmation that 435 firms nationwide are to receive support to maintain over 7,400 jobs the Government is now opening up a second round of the scheme. Kildare firms which are considered vulnerable but viable can receive €9,100 over 15 months for each qualifying employee.”
“The scheme is aimed at helping firms to avoid making people redundant by offering financial support to retain jobs. The new round will be open to a broader range of Kildare firms and will take on board a number of points made by the business community.”
“Details will be announced next week, but it has been confirmed that the support will be open to both exporting and non-exporting companies. It will be managed by Enterprise Ireland which has been working hard to support medium and small sized firms in Kildare and throughout the country. These firms traditionally form the backbone of our economy.”
“A special website has been established at www.employmentsubsidy.ie and details of the second round will be made available here in the coming days as well as through Enterprise Ireland offices.”
“I would encourage all Kildare companies, especially those who may have not been eligible for the first round, to examine the new conditions and see if they are eligible for a scheme which is aimed at keeping jobs in our communities”, concluded Deputy Fitzpatrick.
It’s all about music at Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge, Co. Kildare from Friday November 20th to Sunday 22nd.
On Friday 20th Riverbank Arts Centre kicks off the weekend in style with a solo performance from the superb David Kitt. With his album The Big Romance in 2001, David Kitt accelerated to fame with double-platinum gusto, filling out large venues and conducting euphoric festival highlights. Touring Britain and Europe he graced the stage with record collection heroes such as Television and Yo la Tengo, befriended tourmates Arab Strap and Tindersticks, and discovered during a crazy weekend at Glastonbury that The Magic Numbers were his biggest fans. He was even invited by David Bowie to perform at the Meltdown Festival he curated in 2002 at the Royal Festival Hall. Now, with his sixth lp, The Nightsaver, David Kitt is set to delight at an intimate gig at Riverbank Arts Centre. With tickets only €12/€10, it’s sure to be a great night.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. For music lovers and those with ambitions to make it in the music industry, Riverbank Arts Centre will play host to a FREE Music Conference Weekend on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd of November. Featuring some top names in the world of music and publishing in Ireland and the UK, these two days offer musicians and budding stars the opportunity to meet with the experts, pass on their demo and seek advice on how to further their music career. The National Music Industry Clinic runs on Saturday 21st from 12pm to 4pm and features a panel of the best from the world of radio, management, publishing and more from Ireland and the UK. Speakers include Keith Johnson IMRO, Alison Curtis Today FM, Ben Leahy Playwrite Publishing, Angela Dorgan, First Music Contact and Alexis Vokos, The Delphi Music Company. Musicians and other interested parties will have a chance to book 10 minute ‘Speed Sessions’ with the panel members. These sessions will provide an opportunity to pass on demos, talk about how best to get your music out there and ask about the next step in your music career.
On Sunday 22nd from 11am to 5.30pm, FILTER- Irish Electronic Music Festival, is a day-long music conference aimed at the Electronic and Dance Music scene. The day features a combination of hardware and software workshops as well as a forum with Industry insiders and experts to discuss topics relevant to Irish DJ’s and Producers. Irish Scratch mixing champion DJ Flip will give a demonstration on various turntable techniques while workshops include Logic Audio Workshop with Jeff Timony AKA Kid Handsome and an Ableton Live performance workshop with Enda Rochford AKA Captain Random.
For more details on all events see www.riverbank.ie. Saturday and Sunday’s events are free but advance booking is strongly advised. Contact boxoffice@riverbank.ie or call 045 448327 to reserve a place.
Tickets for David Kitt, Friday 20th November, 8pm are €12/€10 and are available online at www.riverbank.ie or call box office on 045 448327.
Tues 17th November at 8 p.m. in the The Council Chamber, Áras Chill Dara, Devoy Park, Naas promises to be an historic occasion. The Mayor of County Kildare, Councillor Colm Purcell will launch two key County Kildare Archaeological Resources - The County Kildare Archaeological Society Journal Vols. I-XIX (1891-2007) on DVD (fully searchable) and the Directory of archaeological sources relating to County Kildare (A County Kildare Heritage Forum Publication). These two unique resources will be of immense value to researchers and people with an interest in the history and heritage of Co. Kildare.
The Directory, compiled by Jason Bolton, lists all archaeological resources relating to Kildare bringing the list of resources right up to date, but indeed is a marvelous publication in its own right. Beautifully illustrated and presented it will be a much sought after addition to people’s collections and will direct people to relevant source material for years to come.
The publication of the Journal of the Co. Kildare Archaeological Society on DVD brings the single most valuable resource relating to Co. Kildare into the 21st century and will appeal to a new generation of researchers. Since complete sets of the Journal, which was originally published in 1891, are impossible to acquire it will be a chance for people to enhance their collection and their knowledge at the click of a mouse. Most dramatically it allows the user to search the complete run of the first 19 volumes (1891-2007) and so enhances the usefulness of this key primary resource.
It has been a long road – work on the Directory and the DVD began in 2007 – but it is hoped that the wait has been worthwhile. The Directory is free and the DVD will be offered at a special introductory price on the night. It is also intended to provide copies of both resources to the libraries and schools within Co. Kildare. Whether you have an interest in history, archaeology or heritage or you are simply interested in County Kildare in general or re looking for that perfect Christmas gift, we urge you to come to the launch and enjoy this truly historic occasion. The launch is open to the public and will begin promptly at 8 p.m.
Mondello Park is the venue this Sunday for the final Rallycross event of the year as the ‘09/’10 Motorsport Ireland championship passes its half way point. The County Kildare Motor Club will preside over round four of the series which looks set to continue the recent upward trend in Rallycross entries.
With the UK championship now completed the Irish series will once again be bolstered by entries from across the water. ‘Mad’ Mark Watson returns to Mondello having missed the last event to take in the Rallycross Superprix and will be hoping to mount a stronger challenge than his last visit where he came home a fortunate third despite a below par performance, by his standards. Making a first Supercar appearance at Mondello will be Scottish visitor Andy Scott in a car which will be very familiar to Irish Rallycross fans, the ex George Tracey and Ollie O’Donovan Peugeot 306. Also expected is Ford Focus driver Kevin Proctor bringing the visiting field to three and the Supercar entry to a dozen cars.
The overall championship this season has had three different winners from three events. Reigning champion Michael Coyne took round one with his modified class Nova, while round two went to Supercar driver Tommy Graham with his Fiesta. Coyne and Graham then failed to score at round three, leaving the way open for Andrew Morris to take victory, but they still sit one and two in the series. Coyne leads the way from Graham and Supercar newcomer David Dempsey, who is followed by giant killer Kieran Curran, with his 1600cc 2wd Corsa and the Supercars of Morris and Watson.
While the Supercar entry is always the focus for fans the supporting cast of Modified Cars, Stockhatch, Junior Rallycross and Rallycars continues to provide excellent entertainment. The Modified grid continues to move towards the twenty mark, and with entries still coming in this level could be reached this Sunday for the first time in many years. Following his problems at round three Michael Coyne finds himself off the top of the points table in this division for the first time in many years as he trails Tigra driver Dessie Tierney in second, tied on points with his brother Brendan. Round two winner Ian O’Connell returns having missed the last event at Mondello and he too could cause problems for Coyne making this the most difficult season yet for the perennial modified class dominator.
Having shelved his European Rallycross ambitions for the moment Derek Tohill has returned to his Stockhatch roots to once again lead the series. Two wins for Tohill have enabled him to move ahead of fellow race winner Gordon Lynch and former champion Michael Duke who share second place. Proving the worth of the Junior championship is Robert Critchley who has picked up two podiums on his graduation from the junior class to sit fourth in the standings.
The Junior class which Critchley has left behind is still as busy as ever producing future stars with two sons of former competitors emerging as the top dogs in the series. Simon Quinn and Niall Murray have shared the wins between them, two to Quinn and one to Murray but despite their dominance neither sits on top of the points. While Quinn and Murray have both missed a round Andrew Patterson has scored consistently to lead the way ahead of rookie Paul Barrett. All four plus at least four more drivers are all capable of finishing on the podium this Sunday in a class which is regularly providing some of the closest Rallycross competition despite the youth of its competitors.
Sunday’s event gets underway with the first round of heats at 10:15. The event takes a break for half an hour following the second runoff heats and then finishes off the day with the third runs commencing at 13:45 and the finals at 15:30.
TIMETABLE
09:15
Practice Commences
10:00
Practice Finishes
10:15
Heats Run 1
11:45
Heats Run 2
13:15
Lunch Break
13:45
Heats Run 3
15:30
Finals
17:00
Prizegiving
Fianna Fail TD for Kildare North, Michael Fitzpatrick, has welcomed the news that a permanent site has been secured for St. Patrick’s National School in Celbridge.
“The Minister for Education, Batt O Keeffe has informed me that Kildare VEC who have been acting on behalf of the Department has secured a permanent site for St. Patrick’s National School.”
“The VEC are about to close on the transaction and the Department of Education will instruct the VEC to formally acquire the site in the coming days.”
“This is great news for St. Patrick’s. I will be in continuing contact with the Department and the VEC to see that every effort is made to progress the new school as soon as possible,” concluded Deputy Fitzpatrick.
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And every Saturday and Sunday leading up to Christmas
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VENUE
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Kildare Enterprise Park (Ex Blackendecker)
Melitta Rd
Kildare Town
The Curragh (Exit 12 off M7)
Co. Kildare
Call Rachel if you need further details. 086 3320141
We look forward to seeing you there.
Minister of State, and Fianna Fail TD for Kildare North, Áine Brady met with the Minister for Education Batt O’Keeffe today regarding the delay on the Kill National School.
“The Department of Education received confirmation from the Contractor on the Kill National School that the company had been put into receivership.”
“This is a real blow for the school as the new 32 classroom school and ancillary accommodation had begun.”
“The Minister assured me that as soon as the Department heard of the receivership that contacted the Design Team who in turn liaised with the Contractor, the Receiver and the Bondsman.”
“A site meeting was held this morning to discuss the situation and agree how to progress. The Design Team is on site to assess the work that has been done so far and to ensure that the site is secured.”
“The project is Bonded which means that there is an form of security in place in case of the Contractor going bankrupt or going into receivership. It is vital that the taxpayer in projected in this way.”
“When I met with Minister O’Keeffe I emphasised to him that the pupils and staff of Kill National School have needed this new school for many years.”
“These developments will mean that the project will be delayed for 4 to 6 months. This is a very disappointing set back for the pupils and teachers at Kill National School but I am confident from talking to the Minister that the Department is committed to progressing the project as soon as possible and I will be monitoring developments very closely,” concluded Minister Brady.
The show, "Cirque du Cheval" will run from the 3rd - 6th of December in the Alliance Arena in Kill International Equestrian Centre, in County Kildare, just a short distance from Newlands Cross. The event promises to be an unforgettable production and will appeal to all ages and tastes - and not just those who love horses. There are limited performances left in matinee and evening shows, click on www.ticketmaster.ie to book.
This world class production will offer the family something different this Christmas. The audience will be treated to a choreographed performance, which will combine dramatic action, humour, and awe-inspiring lighting effects.
This equestrian theatrical extravaganza will feature the world's greatest performers, the Devils Horsemen, Vaulters, Cossack riders, Western Show and Santa Claus, plus much more. Centred on a Christmas theme, the event will feature a pantomime element throughout the show, which will keep the younger audience entertained. There will also be an opportunity to visit Santa before the matinee performances on Saturday and Sunday.
The feature act, the Devils Horsemen weaves the magic of myth and legend of the horse. With their unique style, flair and passion for the best in equestrian performance is second to none. This act will thrill audiences with a musical mystery and mind blowing horsemanship as never seen before in the Republic of Ireland.
The Cossack performance will be a dazzling display of dare devil stunts. The once military acts have been transformed into acrobatics on horseback which will keep spectators on the edge of their seats. Riders will perform acts hanging at impossible angles from its back, or vaulting, or even standing on the saddle!
The Vaulting display, will see top class riders demonstrate acrobatics on horses, that will thrill the audience.
Western displays from Flaming Hooves (River dance on Horseback) will just amaze the audience as they demonstrate their horsemanship skills to a unique performance.
A full dog agility course will test our canine friends over a range of difficult obstacles. Speed, accuracy and care is required for a clear round here!!.
The show combines the theatrical performances along with top class acts and it is one not to be missed.
Another top class show in County Kildare this Christmas.
The Community Support for Older People Scheme that was suspended has been re-opened pending the consideration of a comprehensive review of the operation of the Scheme according to local Fianna Fail TD Michael Fitzpatrick.
“The Community Support for Older People Scheme was a very popular way of providing grants to local organisations who worked in the community to assist older people.”
“The grants helped to pay for small security measures for older people including the once off cost of installing monitored alarm systems, security lighting, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.”
“I am pleased that Kildare’s community and voluntary organisations participating in the Scheme will once again be able to receive this valuable funding. I understand that local groups have been notified and have been advised of the conditions attaching to the reopening of the current Scheme.”
“I would like to commend the hard work by those community and voluntary organisations who work so hard to assist our local older people. I am delighted that this Scheme is re-opened as I know that the measures that are paid can give increased sense of personal security to older people and allow them to remain in their own homes living independent lives for longer,” concluded Deputy Fitzpatrick.
The Allenwood Community Development Association can be proud of the facilities and training it provides in North West Kildare. Over 300 participants completed FETAC and ECDL courses in 2009.
Speaking at the presentation of FETAC Certificates on Thursday 29th October, Michael Fitzpatrick T.D. highlighted the importance of Allenwood Community Development Association's involvement in providing facilities for jobs, training and education in the Enterprise Park since it was taken over in 1999 from the ESB after the closure of Allenwood Power Station.
He added that the facilities provided there give fantastic support to a range of agencies delivering a Community Development Programme in North West Kildare. They also provide Enterprise space to business start ups and developing businesses along with flexible terms and affordable rates. He went on pay tribute to Hilary Ann Murphy, FETAC Co-Ordinator for Allenwood Community Development Association, her staff and supporters for their work and for their contributions to the success of this programme.
Allenwood Community Development Association have invested heavily in providing facilities in the Enterprise Park. The success of these courses and the large number of participants are a positive return from this investment.
The Country’s Arts Venues Collaborate To Tempt Audiences
As part of a national arts campaign, top venues in Ireland have announced Take Your Seat week, which runs from 9th to 14th November, promising to offer discounted tickets and fantastic promotional offers for venues across the county including Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge, Co. Kildare.
Upon booking a ticket for a show at a participating venue, on www.takeyourseat.ie, consumers will be offered a range of promotions and incentives to come back to see another show at a later date at the same venue.
This is the first of many initiatives being planned under Arts Audiences, the Arts Council-backed initiative designed to encourage more people to attend the many world-class plays, concerts, dance and other performances taking place across the country.
Linda Geraghty, PR and Marketing Coordinator at Riverbank Arts Centre said: "Take Your Seat is something theatres and venues across the country have been talking about for years – a national campaign promoting the fantastic range of live performances happening in venues all around Ireland. Our own programme for the week includes cinema with the Irish surfing documentary Waveriders, theatre with JP Miller’s Days of Wine and Roses and the entertaining children’s show Blenny.
We’ll be delighted to welcome audiences in with this innovative promotion and with the special offers up for grabs, we hope that trips to Riverbank Arts Centre will become an even more regular habit”.
‘Take Your Seat’ has united over thirty venues around the country and their representatives have vowed to collaborate for the long-term to encourage existing customers to come back more often, and tempt more newcomers through their doors – in spite of the recession.
According to Pat Moylan, Chairman of the Arts Council:
“A focus on audiences for the arts is essential in these difficult economic times. There are fantastic opportunities for arts venues and organisations right now to collaborate on marketing, to promote and sell, to expand audiences and encourage people to return more often. An initiative like ‘Take Your Seat’ sends a clear signal that Ireland is a highly creative and competitive place – and it will benefit performers, artists, venues and the public alike.”
Ms Moylan’s view is borne out by recent research. An average of 67 percent of people who attend events go to a cultural venue only once a year; if all of these were to return again and purchase a ticket for a show, it would put approximately €20m back into the economy.
The concept for Take Your Seat came from those working in the industry, and is being co-ordinated by Arts Audiences, with the support of the Arts Council and Temple Bar Cultural Trust, which aims to help arts organisations maintain and increase their audience and revenues by undertaking audience-focused initiatives and improve their ability to market themselves effectively. Supporters also include Fáilte Ireland and RTE Radio while private sector interests have also rowed in, providing considerable pro bono promotional support for an initiative hoped to be the first of many.
Take Your Seat provides a model of innovative practice for public and private interests working together to address the issues which arise in difficult times.
Full details about the venues and arts centres taking part in Take Your Seat will be published on www.takeyourseat.ie from today.
For more information on Arts Audiences log onto www.artsaudiences.ie
Naas Teenager Simon Quinn continued his emergence as the star of Junior Rallycross last weekend with dominant victories on either side of the Irish Sea. Quinn finished off his UK championship season with victory on Saturday at Croft before returning to home soil at Mondello Park to take his second win of the year in the Irish championship the following day.
Sunday saw Ireland’s youngest motor racing drivers head once again to Mondello Park for round three of the 2009/10 Jondol Furniture Junior Rallycross Championship. For the second meeting in a row the event began with a record number of starters with fifteen cars taking to the track split into two groups. As usual, grid positions for the finals would be decided over three runs of heats for each group and it was Niall Murray from Tallaght who made the early running taking fastest time from the first run with his Toyota Starlet. Championship favourite Quinn was bumped down to seventh in his first race but recovered well with his Mini to take fourth behind Murray, Micra driver Mark Francis and the Mini of Paul Barrett. The second race was a lights-to-flag win for Paul McArdle in another Micra and the Dundalk youngster had a huge winning margin of seven seconds from the Peugeot of Seamus Curran and Naas driver Sam Kinirons who did extremely well with his Mini to climb to third from seventh on the grid.
The second pair of races resulted in wins for Quinn and the Micra of Andrew Patterson with Quinn taking the overall victory courtesy of a time two seconds faster than Patterson. The Newry driver sneaked into second place ahead of Niall Murray with a big gap back to the reminder of the top six, made up by Barrett, Francis and Kinirons. By the third run Quinn was really into his stride and he led from start to finish again ahead of impressive newcomers Murray and Barrett with the more experienced Mark Francis in fourth. In the other race Patterson also took his second win of the day from Kinirons and McArdle but once again could not match the earlier time of Quinn. With the final heats complete Quinn, Patterson and Murray were once again the top three ahead of Kinirons, McArdle and Barrett.
A strong run in the heats may be important but in Junior Rallycross when it comes to championship points the finals are all that matter. With fifteen entries the grid for the ‘B’ final was full for the first time but the field was quickly reduced due to an incident which required the race to be restarted. On the restart James Fleming, who was sharing the car of Niall Murray took off into the lead and was never troubled. Behind him Carlow’s John Murphy held second until an error on the last lap dropped him down to fourth and last place in the much reduced field. Robert Comerford inherited second with Steffan Schmieder third in an unusually spread out field.
With his ‘B Final’ win, Fleming should have progressed to the ‘A Final’, but as he was sharing the car with front row starter Murray just seven cars made the grid. When the lights changed Quinn made the best of his pole position to lead from a very fast starting Francis who slipped into second from fourth on the grid ahead of Murray. As Quinn motored on into the lead, round two winner Murray, again impressed as he passed the much more experienced Francis for second. At the same time fellow front row starter Patterson was enduring a nightmare race and had dropped back to sixth. Up at the front Quinn again showed his class as he built up a massive winning margin by Junior Rallycross standards to take the flag nearly seven seconds clear of Murray. Murray also drove well to break clear of Francis who finished third but under enormous pressure from Maynooth’s Barrett. Kinirons finished fourth more than fifteen seconds behind the winner with Patterson and McArdle rounding out the results in sixth and seventh.
Quinn’s second win of the season moved him into the championship lead despite him missing round two completely and has now placed himself firmly as the man to beat in the championship chase. The youngster has shown himself to be a real talent in his very short career so far and currently looks unstoppable. His ability was underlined the day before the Irish championship event when he travelled to Croft in the north of England to compete in the final round of the British Open series which he also dominated to add to his impressive win tally since taking up the sport earlier this year.
With the British series now completed Quinn’s attention will turn to securing his first Irish championship in his first full season of competition. The Irish championship continues in two weeks time at Mondello Park before taking a break for the winter months and completing its seven event schedule in February and March.
The Heritage Council's Grants Programme represents the most tangible manner in which the Council can help individuals, groups and agencies to manage, develop and conserve those aspects of their heritage that they value the most.
The Council has revised its grants system; three new grant schemes are now open for applications for 2010:
Full details on making an application are now available on the Heritage Council website.
