CARDS RESULTS: Winners at the Hurling Club Progressive 25 Card Drive held in Guinans Bar and Lounge on Friday 20th were 1st with eleven games Robbie Maher and John Lanigan. Sharing second place with ten games were Joe Doyle and Bridget Cotterell and John Kenny and Paddy Barron. The table prize was won by Tom and Mary O’Connor. Other prize winners were Jimmy Coyne, Pat Burke, Laurence Foley, Bridget Cotterell, and Laurence Foley. The next game takes place on Friday 4th. December and all are welcome.

TIDY TOWNS: Following Tullahought Bronze Medal success in this year’s Tidy Towns competition, Fáilte Ireland the Department of the Environment, Community & Local Government have invited members of the local committee to the South East Region SuperValu Tidy Towns Awards event. It takes place on this Thursday in the winning Regional Centre of Clonegal, in Carlow. On the night the local group will be represented by Eamon Doyle, Dick Walsh, Kathleen Duggan and Eileen Norris. Best wishes are extended to the group’s secretary Mary Egan for a speedy recovery after a recent operation. 

HANDBALL AGM: Reflecting on one of the busiest year ever the dedicated few running the local Handball club reviewed a very successful year at the recent AGM. During it club players won titles during in the 40 x 20, one wall and 60 x 30 competitions from juvenile to master’s level at schools colleges, club, county, team, provincial and international level. Off the court great work has been done externally to prepare for the painting of the building and the installation of new guttering. On the coaching front all of the club coaches will be taking part in a foundation training course in the next few weeks, with the practical’s taking place in the alley and the theory being carried out in the GAA Club Rooms. The course will be delivered by a GAA Handball Tutor. With a small turnout the outgoing officers were re-elected with Sean Foley coming on board to look after the handball website. The line-up for the year ahead is Chairman Gerard Doyle, Vice chairman Jimmy Purcell, Secretary Michal O' Shea, Treasurer Michael Grace, PRO Jimmy Walsh, Website Sean Foley. Also in attendance were John Barron and Shane Doyle. The trainers will be appointed and the training rotas announced shortly.

WINNERS ALL: Amongst the players who won handball titles during the year were Roisin Foley, Áine Dunne, Sean Dunne, Sean Purcell, Jack Doyle, Robert Culleton, Pauric Foley, Adam O’ Shea, Eoin O’ Brien, Niall O’ Brien, Sean Barron, Conor Foley, Blade O Gorman, , Luke Ward Margaret Purcell Caoimhe O'Shea, Margaret Foley, James Purcell Conor Doyle, Cliodhna O Shea, Roisin Foley, Sonta Jackson, Emer Barron, Orlaith O’ Shea Emmet Landy Darragh O’ Shea, Robert Culleton, Shane Cullen Jack Hayes, Ml O’ Shea Eamon and Jimmy Purcell, Philip Lonergan, Eamon Hawe  PJ Barron, Darragh O Shea, Simon Walsh, Pat Foley, Shane Walsh and Deirdre Purcell

MEDAL WINNERS: At the Kilkenny County Board medal Presentation night in Cillin Hill on Saturday night Gerard Purcell was presented with his British Junior Football Championship Medal by the GAA President Aogán Ó Fearghaill. At the same event Niall Walsh was presented with his second Leinster Minor Hurling Medal by the Leinster Chairman John Horan and County Chairman Ned Quinn.

BOUNDARY COMMISSION: A public meeting on the potential effects of the Boundary Commission on the Carlow and Waterford borders with Kilkenny will take place in the RHU GLEN on Monday next 30th of November at 7.30pm.

TABLE QUIZ: The Suir Valley Environmental Group is hosting a table quiz in Robinson’s Bar, Kilsheelin on Friday 27th November at 8.30 pm. Tables of 4 players €20, As its one of our major fundraisers please make every effort to attend and bring a team or as many as you can.  There will be a festive raffle on the night. Proceeds from the night will go to the Suir Valley Environmental Group to help continue the fight against the imminent threat of industrial wind turbines on Carrigadoon and Curraghdobbin hills and so protect the iconic views of Slievenamon and the evening Solstice at Knockroe Passage Tomb.

CLUB MEETING: A meeting of the Hurling Club takes place in the Clubrooms on this Wednesday evening at 8pm.

BELGIUM OPEN: Over one hundred and sixty handballers from nine countries travelled to Huissignies for the EDTL International Belgium Open.  The Irish contingent with players from Longford, Tipperary, Clare, Roscommon, Galway, Limerick, Wexford, Tyrone, Antrim and Westmeath included Windgaps Shane Wash and Dan Breen ok Kells. At the one wall event they competed with players from Spain, Argentina, England, Holland, Belgium, France, America, and Italy which saw an Argentinean beat an English player in the final. Various Irish people did well, including sixteen year old Daniel Kavanagh winning the open doubles and Dan Breen the C competition. The event concluded with all the players attending a banquet on Saturday night.

EUROPEAN HANDBALL: Reporting from the handball courts in Europe local player and former Paris Gaels footballer Shane Walsh has found a strong handball culture where some versions are not played against a wall. Using the same skills as handball, it is more like tennis without the rackets. In Belgium the handball game is jeu de paume which means palmball is a two verses two game and Frisian handball in the Netherlands is five verses five on a seventy foot grass pitch.

DEVELOPMENT AGM: The AGM of the Windgap Community Development Committee takes place in the Club Rooms on Wednesday. Further details to follow.

SOUTH FINAL: There was widespread disappointment after the South Final clash with neighbours Dunnamaggin on Saturday afternoon in Callan when the side went down by a single point. See Sports pages for the match report.

TRACTOR RUN; The inaugural John Smith Memorial tractor run took place in aid of Windgap National School and Kilkenny Hospice on Saturday last. For the event a total of over two hundred and ten tractors of all makes and models were led by John’s brother George sons Adam and Wesley and his wife Jean. After a good feed and a produce sale in the hall the convoy left after midday and took to the byways and highways. On the way they pulled in for refreshments and a huge auction in Killamery.

CAMOGIE NEWS: The postponed under twenty one game against Dicksboro took place in Danesfort on Sunday morning in Danesfort. In the game three early Dicksboro goals saw the side run out easy winners. On the day some of the very young players in Hennessey, Amanda Power, Deirdre Purcell and Elaine Power showed great potential. Also making steady progress on her return after a long break was Niamh Phelan. The game brings the season down on the on field activities.

OUT AND ABOUT: Blackberry Blossoms, green strawberries and occasional daisy’s lady fingers or foxgloves combined with an abundance of red berried holly have all added to the autumnal colours of beech trees and bracken. Also to be seen are finches in flocks with the arrival of the Mistle Thrushes from the continent adding hustle and bustle to the hedgerows.

NOT NOW DARLING: Shrughawadda Players, Kilmoganny will present their latest play` Not Now Darling` by Ray Cooney and John Chapman in St. Eoghan’s Centre, Kilmoganny from the 24th to 27th Nov 2015 at 8pm nightly. Nonstop laughter in store. Tickets are on sale at Kilmoganny Post Office or contact 051-648001

BRIDGE RESULTS: Winners at the Killamery Bridge Club game held in the Olde House recently were 1st. Sarah Crowley and Elizabeth Lanigan. 2nd Pat Arrigan and Margaret Comerford. 3rd. Kitty Meagher and Noreen Kinsella. Best Gross Noreen Hayes and Rita Phelan.

​CLUB NEWS: This Week’s Winning Numbers were 7, 19, 24, 25 and Bonus number 14. The result brought a match three cheque to Paddy Egan. Next week’s prize fund is €6,000.
KCAT QUIZ: A Table Quiz for KCAT takes place on Fri 27th Nov at 8 pm in Carroll’s bar, Callan. Come as long for a fun eve and great prizes. 
EXERCISE:  Six weeks of classes to get everyone fit n'fab for Christmas will take place on every Wednesday from 11th November at 10.30am in Windgap Community Centre. The classes for ladies only welcome all fitness levels. Classes will vary using kettle bells, dumbbells, steps and mats. All classes will work through three components of fitness, cardio/muscular endurance (tone & strength) & flexibility. All classes are pay as you go, so simply turn up that morning and join in. All enquiries welcome to Emer on (086)3743763
NUACHTLITIR: Information for the weekly Parish Bulletin at weekend Masses can be emailed to [email protected] or dropped into the Parochial House by Thursday evening. Mobile number (085) 8830756.
NOTES: Contributors and Clubs are invited to email items for publication with a name and contact number to [email protected] by Sunday evenings at 6pm. For all the local news and photos visit windgap.ie

Mass Times: Windgap: Saturday, 7.30 p.m. Tullahought: Sunday, 10 a.m.
Masses for 24-28 November Windgap: Tuesday, 9.30 am; Friday, 9.30 am.
Tullahought, Thursday, 7.30 pm. Windgap:
Readers: 31 Oct. Rita Phelan; 7 Nov. Caoimhe O'Shea; 14 Nov. Martin O'Shea; 21 Nov. Michelle O'Brien; 28 Nov. Sean Foley; 5 Dec. Larry O'Shea.
Eucharistic Ministers: Oct., 31, Ann O'Shea; Nov. 7, Breda O'Shea; 14, Margaret Mackey; 21, Joan Waters; 28, Liz Jackson..
Tullahought:  Eucharistic Ministers: Leo Conalty; Patricia Power; Mary Walsh; Eileen Grace.
Feast of Christ the King: Established by Pius XI in 1925 to celebrate the Jubilee Year & the 16th centenary of the Council of Nicaea. Instituting this feast, Pope Pius XI proclaimed: “Pax Christi in regno Christi” (“The peace of Christ in the reign of Christ”) – a pointed comment on World War I which had torn Europe apart just a few years earlier.
November Masses for the Holy Souls: in these Masses we remember those who are mentioned in the lists you have left on the altar.  We remember especially those who died during the past year, and let us remember also those who have passed to their eternal reward and who do not have relatives or friends to remember them.
Annual Collection for the sick and retired priests of the diocese: The Second Collection this weekend is for the Ossory Priests Society (founded 1846) which is responsible for the care of the priests in the diocese who are sick, infirm or incapacitated by old age and for retired priests. We have currently 10 priests of the diocese retired with some in nursing home facilities (Fr. Bob Raftice; Fr Joe Delaney; Fr. Denis Purcell, etc.). The collection is to help defray the cost of nursing home care. During the past year (2015) three priests of the Diocese died: Msgr. Thomas Maher, formerly PP Mullinavat; Rev. James Carrigan, formerly PP Aghaboe & Fr. Paddy Brennan, formerly CC Windgap and later PP Ballycallan and Muckalee.
Right4UFitness – Wednesdays, Windgap Parish Hall, 10.30 am; 6 weeks to get fit for Christmas. Enquiries to Emer (086)3743763.
South Kilkenny Historical Society: In Mullinavat Parish Hall, Thursday, 26 November 8.00 pm.  Dr. Pat McCarthy on: World War I - An Overview; Admission: €5 (members and students free).  All are welcome.
The Parents Association of Windgap N.S. which to thank sincerely all who contributed to the the John Smyth Memorial Tractor Run. They were delighted with the support of parents and the entire parish community. This has led to much-needed funds being raised for Windgap N.S. and the Kilkenny Home Care Team.  Nár laga Dia sibh.
Blood Transfusion Unit: Parish Hall, Callan – Monday, 23 November 4.30 – 8.00 pm. Your support is earnestly requested.
Coolagh Cards & Raffle: Pre-Christmas card games for hams and hampers each Thursday night until Christmas.
St. Mary's Cathedral Restoration Fund Super Auction: Saturday, 28 November, O'Loughlin Gaels Sports Complex, Hebron Road, Kilkenny: Original paintings, garden and household furniture, antiques, firewood, crockery, lamps, toys, etc. Viewing - 10am. Auction begins 11.30am. Catalogue €3. Enquiries re. advertisements in catalogue please contact 086 828 3478 (quarter page - €40; half page - €60; full page - €100).
Course for current and new Readers: St. Patrick’s Centre. Loughboy, 7.30 pm, Tues. 24 Nov. & Tues. 1st Dec.. The same course is being offered in Mullinavat Church at 7.30 pm Mon. 23 & 30th Nov. and Ballyragget Church: Wed. 25 Nov. & 2 Dec.
Special Collection: Sincere thanks for your continuing support for the Special Collection and a gentle reminder to those about to send in their contributions.
Forty Hours Adoration: For the Feast of Christ the King, organised by St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society, Sun 22 Nov., 10.00am–10.00pm in Bl. Sacrament Chapel, St. Mary’s Cathedral.
Callan before the Great Famine. Illustrated talk on Callan before the famine, the Workhouse Callan, Tues., 24 Nov., 8.00 pm. Speaker: Prof. Pierce Grace who has recently published a book on Callan (1825-45). All are welcome.
Windgap Annual Bazaar - Sunday, 13th December, in Windgap Community Hall, at 2 pm. More details to follow. The Raffle tickets will be distributed to every house in the parish in the coming week.
World Youth Day 2016, Kracow, Poland, July 2016. Pope Francis will attend. Ossory Diocese is inviting young people (over 18 years) to attend; contact [email protected] or Fr Richard Scriven ([email protected] / 087 2420033) or Derek Dooley (087 938 4242).
School of the Holy Spirit, Seville Lodge, Kilkenny: their annual coffee morning Sun., 29 Nov., 11am - 1pm, Seville lodge. Enjoy a cuppa with home bakeries and pick up a few bargains at the gift stall, books cds, dvds and perhaps win an amazing hamper or two. Anyone wishing to donate gifts etc to event can contact Therese Buckley @0879040208.
Priests of Windgap: Fr Nolan, whose early career we traced in the last nuachtlitir, was appointed Archdeacon and dean of Ossory by Bishop Marum and was a candidate for bishop after the death of Dr Marum in December 1827.  While PP Gowran and Clara he was appointed President of St. Kyran’s College in 1839. In addition to his parochial duties in Gowran and Clara the sixty-five year old Fr Nolan took charge of the secondary school and seminary (now on the same site) and remained in charge until 1842. Fr Nolan’s name is inextricably linked with the opposition to the English government having a veto on the appointment of bishops in Ireland.  He assisted Dean O’Donnell (PP St. John’s & hero of Banim’s Father Connell) in drawing up the famous anti-Veto address of the priests of Ossory to the Irish Bishops in 1808. The address received much publicity and was an important influence in the decision the Irish bishops eventually made to oppose the Veto.  When the controversy surfaced again six years later in 1814 Fr Nolan was secretary of the meeting in the “Old Cathedral” that again opposed the Veto. He was active in the struggle for Catholic Emancipation, the abolition of the tithes and the repeal of the union with our neighbouring island. He died on 29 May 1851. The long Latin inscription on his monument in Gowran recalls his extraordinary contribution to the church of Ossory.
Placenames: Baunfree is Bán Fraoigh as Gaeilge, Bán meaning fallow land, lea or grassland and Fraoch meaning heath. But the name associated with the place in 1550 was Knockandrowley, and versions of this name turn up in documents from 1550 right up to 1833. The Irish for this is possibly Cnoc an Dromhlaigh. While Cnoc obviously means hill, dromhlach can mean a wide, deep, wooden vessel or half-barrel, referring possibly to the shape of the place, or it could mean a gaunt, stooped person – the person who owned the place, perhaps!

Science Week 
Zak Kennedy, Jack O’Shea, Liam Conalty, James Purcell, Killian Enright, Michael Butler
 
On Tuesday, 9th November some transition year students came to our school from Comeragh College. They did lots of experiments with us. They dissected a sheep heart and we explored the senses and re-created a volcano. On Friday 12th we went to W.I.T. to see a show called Gruesome Guts. There was a male and a female scientist presenting the show. The first thing we did was talk about fat, iron, calcium and carbohydrates. After that Ronan did an experiment using a blow torch, a hose, a funnel and cornflour. He put the hose in his mouth and put cornflour in the funnel and blew and fire came out. Then we saw a film showing Laura’s digestive system. It was really gruesome. After the show we went to Kilbarry Wild Life Park in Waterford. We did the 2km walk and used the equipment there. It was an excellent day.

Tractor Run
Sontae Jackson, Abby Dunne & Killian Doyle
On the 14th November the Parent Association of Windgap N.S. held their third annual tractor run in aid of the school and to raise funds for Carlow Kilkenny Home Care Team in memory of John Smyth who passed away during the summer. 209 tractors participated from New Hollands to the old vintages. Hundreds of spectators gathered in the village to see them off. It was due to start in Windgap at 12 noon but was running a bit late so all the tractors left at 1pm. In Windgap hall there was a bake sale, competitions, and refreshments. All the tractors drove off in convoy. This year they went to Killamery instead of Tullahought. Nearly all the tractors had a child passenger in it as they headed for Coolagh via Ballytobin. When they arrived at Coolagh they went up the hill and passed through Poulacapple and finally arrived in Kilamery. Many spectators drove in their cars to Kilamery where there was a raffle, auction and a barbeque. The busy chefs cooked 500 burgers which were all hungrily devoured. Auctioneer Michael Cunningham coaxed those in the crowded lounge to bid on donated items which in general were farming related. People enjoyed walking around admiring the tractors. On their way back to Windgap many tractors drove past John and Jean Smyth’s house to pay their respects. Overall it was a spectacular day of fun for all the family. We thought the tractor run was a great success and we can’t wait for the next one.

Our Buddy Bench
Emer Barron, Eimear Smith, Sarah Culleton, Nathania Jackson, Sarah Cullen, Niall O’Brien, Karl McCoy
On Friday, 23rd October pupils from 5th & 6th classes began working on a Buddy Bench for our school. The Buddy Bench will be used by children who feel lonely or unhappy. When someone sits on the Buddy Bench others will know that the person needs a buddy.
Breda Horgan and Michelle O’Brien, with a lot of help from Michael Grace and Trevor Horgan, helped the pupils construct and decorate the Buddy Bench. On 17th November Breda and Michelle, together with Sam Synnott from Buddy Bench Ireland, delivered the Buddy Bench to the school. Breda and Michelle will hold workshops with all the classes in the school around the concept behind the Buddy Bench. The construction of the Buddy Bench was generously sponsored by Eileen O’Gorman, Kilamery. We hope that the Buddy Bench will be a well used addition to our happy school.

​HANDBALL AGM: Reflecting on one of the busiest year ever the dedicated few running the local Handball club reviewed a very successful year at the recent AGM. During it club players won titles during in the 40 x 20, one wall and 60 x 30 competitions from juvenile to master’s level at schools colleges, club, county, team, provincial and international level. Off the court great work has been done externally to prepare for the painting of the building and the installation of new guttering. On the coaching front all of the club coaches will be taking part in a foundation training course in the next few weeks, with the practical’s taking place in the alley and the theory being carried out in the GAA Club Rooms. The course will be delivered by a GAA Handball Tutor. With a small turnout the outgoing officers were re-elected with Sean Foley coming on board to look after the handball website. The line-up for the year ahead is Chairman Gerard Doyle, Vice chairman Jimmy Purcell, Secretary Michal O' Shea, Treasurer Michael Grace, PRO Jimmy Walsh, Website Sean Foley. Also in attendance were John Barron and Shane Doyle. The trainers will be appointed and the training rotas announced shortly.

WINNERS ALL: Amongst the players who won handball titles during the year were Roisin Foley, Áine Dunne, Sean Dunne, Sean Purcell, Jack Doyle, Robert Culleton, Pauric Foley, Adam O’ Shea, Eoin O’ Brien, Niall O’ Brien, Sean Barron, Conor Foley, Blade O Gorman, , Luke Ward Margaret Purcell Caoimhe O'Shea, Margaret Foley, James Purcell Conor Doyle, Cliodhna O Shea, Roisin Foley, Sonta Jackson, Emer Barron, Orlaith O’ Shea Emmet Landy Darragh O’ Shea, Robert Culleton, Shane Cullen Jack Hayes, Ml O’ Shea Eamon and Jimmy Purcell, Philip Lonergan, Eamon Hawe  PJ Barron, Darragh O Shea, Simon Walsh, Pat Foley, Shane Walsh and Deirdre Purcell

MEDAL WINNERS: At the Kilkenny County Board medal Presentation night in Cillin Hill on Saturday night Gerard Purcell was presented with his British Junior Football Championship Medal by the GAA President Aogán Ó Fearghaill. At the same event Niall Walsh was presented with his second Leinster Minor Hurling Medal by the Leinster Chairman John Horan and County Chairman Ned Quinn.

BELGIUM OPEN: Over one hundred and sixty handballers from nine countries travelled to Huissignies for the EDTL International Belgium Open.  The Irish contingent with players from Longford, Tipperary, Clare, Roscommon, Galway, Limerick, Wexford, Tyrone, Antrim and Westmeath included Windgaps Shane Wash and Dan Breen ok Kells. At the one wall event they competed with players from Spain, Argentina, England, Holland, Belgium, France, America, and Italy which saw an Argentinean beat an English player in the final. Various Irish people did well, including sixteen year old Daniel Kavanagh winning the open doubles and Dan Breen the C competition. The event concluded with all the players attending a banquet on Saturday night.

EUROPEAN HANDBALL: Reporting from the handball courts in Europe local player and former Paris Gaels footballer Shane Walsh has found a strong handball culture where some versions are not played against a wall. Using the same skills as handball, it is more like tennis without the rackets. In Belgium the handball game is jeu de paume which means palmball is a two verses two game and Frisian handball in the Netherlands is five verses five on a seventy foot grass pitch.

DEVELOPMENT AGM: The AGM of the Windgap Community Development Committee takes place on Wednesday 18th of November in the Club Rooms at 8pm.

CARDS: The next Hurling Club Progressive 25 Card Drive in Guinans Bar and Lounge in game takes place on Friday 20th of November.

SOUTH FINAL: In preparation for the South Final clash with neighbours Dunnamaggin this Saturday afternoon in Callan at 2pm. A second game scheduled with Ballinakill on Sunday morning was cancelled. All support is greatly appreciated for the Final

TRACTOR RUN; The inaugural John Smith Memorial tractor run took place in aid of Windgap National School and Kilkenny Hospice on Saturday last. For the event a total of over two hundred and ten tractors of all makes and models were led by John’s brother George sons Adam and Wesley and his wife Jean. After a good feed and a produce sale in the hall the convoy left after midday and took to the byways and highways. On the way they pulled in for refreshments and a huge auction in Killamery.

CAMOGIE NEWS: The postponed under twenty one game against Dicksboro took place in Danesfort on Sunday morning in Danesfort. In the game three early Dicksboro goals saw the side run out easy winners. On the day some of the very young players in Hennessey, Amanda Power, Deirdre Purcell and Elaine Power showed great potential. Also making steady progress on her return after a long break was Niamh Phelan. The game brings the season down on the on field activities.

TIDY TOWNS: Following Tullahought Bronze Medal success in this year’s Tidy Towns competition, Fáilte Ireland the Department of the Environment, Community & Local Government have invited members of the local committee to the South East Region SuperValu Tidy Towns Awards event. It takes place on Thursday, November 26th in the winning Regional Centre of Clonegal, in Carlow.

OUT AND ABOUR: Blackberry Blossoms, green strawberries and occasional daisy’s lady fingers or foxgloves combined with an abundance of red berried holly have all added to the autumnal colours of beech trees and bracken. Also to be seen are finches in flocks with the arrival of the Mistle Thrushes from the continent adding hustle and bustle to the hedgerows.

NOT NOW DARLING: Shrughawadda Players, Kilmoganny will present their latest play` Not Now Darling` by Ray Cooney and John Chapman in St. Eoghan’s Centre, Kilmoganny from the 24th to 27th Nov 2015 at 8pm nightly. Nonstop laughter in store. Tickets are on sale at Kilmoganny Post Office or contact 051-648001

BRIDGE RESULTS: Winners at the Killamery Bridge Club game held in the Olde House recently were 1st. Sarah Crowley and Elizabeth Lanigan. 2nd Pat Arrigan and Margaret Comerford. 3rd. Kitty Meagher and Noreen Kinsella. Best Gross Noreen Hayes and Rita Phelan.

CLUB NEWS: This Week’s Winning Numbers were 7, 19, 24, 25 and Bonus number 14. The result brought a match three cheque to Paddy Egan. Next week’s prize fund is €6,000.

EXERCISE:  Six weeks of classes to get everyone fit n'fab for Christmas will take place on every Wednesday from 11th November at 10.30am in Windgap Community Centre. The classes for ladies only welcome all fitness levels. Classes will vary using kettlebells, dumbbells, steps and mats. All classes will work through three components of fitness, cardio/muscular endurance (tone & strength) & flexibility. All classes are pay as you go, so simply turn up that morning and join in. All enquiries welcome to Emer on (086)3743763

NUACHTLITIR: Information for the weekly Parish Bulletin at weekend Masses can be emailed to [email protected] or dropped into the Parochial House by Thursday evening. Mobile number (085) 8830756.

​NOTES: Contributors and Clubs are invited to email items for publication with a name and contact number to [email protected] by Sunday evenings at 6pm. For all the local news and photos visit windgap.ie

​Windgap Community Development Company will have its AGM on Wednesday next the 18th of November in the GAA Club Rooms at 8pm, all are welcome.
Novembe

DEVELOPMENT AGM: The AGM of the Windgap Community Development Committee takes place on Wednesday 18th of November in the Club Rooms at 8pm. The meeting will review all of the successful projects that were carried out during the year including the new playground, walks, forge restoration, tidy towns and village renewal. Also on the Agenda will be the plans for renovation works on the Glanbia store Community Centre, progress on a community shop and the forge and walk openings. The list of nominations will be circulated in the next couple of days and all are welcome to attend.

CARDS: Winners at the monthly Hurling Club Progressive 25 Card Drive in Guinans Bar and Lounge in Windgap on Friday last were. In 1st with were thirteen games John Lanigan, Robert Maher. In second place with twelve games were Martin Madden and Eamon Doyle. Christy and Pat Power won the table prize with other prizes going to Tom O’Connor, Michael Cunningham, Eamon Doyle, Michael Power and Dean Madden. The next game takes place on Friday 20th of November.

SOUTH FINAL: Following the win over Kilmacow in Danesfort on Saturday afternoon the Galmoy Windgap under twenty one team will play the winners of the Dunnamaggin verses Graiguenamanagh game in the south final on the weekend of the 21st of November. For all the match details see Jerry Drennan's match report in the sports pages.

TRACTOR RUN; The inaugural John Smith Memorial tractor run takes place in aid of Windgap National School on Saturday 14th of November. Leaving the hall at midday the entry fee is €20. At the end of the journey there will be refreshments, an auction and a raffle. In its fourth year it recalls the memory of John Smith.

TIDY TOWNS NEWS: Planning for the 2016 competition in Tullahought has brought good news on two fronts. Just a point away from a silver medal award in 2015, a big push is being made to improve next year’s results. In the Built Environment, Residential Areas and Streets section Coleen Johnson, Richard Walsh and Brian Hennessey have agreed the replacement of a painted block wall with a more traditional local stone one. In the Wildlife Habitats and Natural amenities section, clarification has been received of the moving of the Wildlife Sanctuary that was set up many years ago around the Village and the Wildlife Area. As a result plans are being put in place in the locality to create a new protected area under the Wildlife Habitats and Natural amenities section of the competition.

CAMOGIE NEWS: The Windgap Under twenty one game against Dicksboro was postponed on Sunday owing to the inclement weather conditions. To date no date is available for the re-fixture.

BRIDGE RESULTS: Winners at the Killamery Bridge Club game held in the Olde House were 1st. Mary Walsh and Mary Joy. 2nd Catherine Burke and Helen Lanigan. 3rd. Rita Phelan and Noreen Hayes. 4th. Pat Arrigan and Margaret Comerford. Best Gross Mary Lonergan and Josie O’Gorman.

CAMOGIE COUNTY FINAL: In John Locke Park resplendent with its newly painted stand in the club colours on Saturday morning Windgap and St. Brighids Ballycallan provided a cracking game in the under fourteen Camogie county final. Having started well Windgap led by four points to two at half time as Graigue Ballycallan failed to convert many of their scoring chances. After the break side got their shooting on line and tied the game eight minutes into the new half, before going on to lead by three with eleven minutes to go as a long range free found the Windgap net. In the remaining minutes as scores were added at both ends goals by Kathy Long and a well worked earlier one by Aine Wall, Molly Walsh and Jade Butler for Windgap saw the sides tied 2-5 to 1-8 with two minutes to go. In the final minutes a late rally by the St Brighids girls saw a late goal by Eadaion Murphy give her side victory with a full time score of Windgap 2-5, St Brighids Graigueballycallan 2-8.  For all the scores visit windgap.ie or WindgapGAA on Twitter. The Windgap side under Michael O’Shea and Jimmy Purcell was Grace Foley, Laura Hennessy, Jane Walker, Elaine Power, Margaret Purcell, Deirdre Purcell, Claire Kirwan, Caoimhe O’Shea, Amyleigh Cahill, Kathy Long, Aine Dunne, Katelyn Brett, Molly Walsh, Jade Butler, and Emily Murphy. Subs: Aisling Butler, Heather McLoughlin, Alana Dunphy, Lisa Power, Margaret Foley, Ciara Byrne, Lucy Culleton. St. Brigid’s: Siún Corcoran, Lisa Hogan, Caoimhe Murphy, Kayleigh Nolan, Therese Purcell, Ciara Murphy, Laoise Prendiville, Tara Walsh, Anna Robinson, Éadoin Murphy, Charlotte McCluskey, Eimear Keoghan, Kym Ryan, Niamh O’Connor, Ann Doheny. Subs: Aisling Kelly, Amy O’Brien, Lauryn Corcoran, Leah Lanigan, Claire Kelly, Christine Caldbeck, Celine O’Dwyer, Rebecca O’Neill, Claire Quigley.

FACING THE “BRIDGE” On Sunday in Arklow a handful of Kilkenny natives lined up with Wicklow’s Bray Emmets against Bennettsbridge in the Leinster Intermediate Hurling Championship. Led by a Windgap man in Club Chairman Dermot O Brien who hails from Garryricken he was joined by former inter county player John Henderson as team manager whose sons John Junior and Darragh were playing. In addition former Piltown and Kilkenny player Liam Kenny was one of the selectors whilst former Windgap player Noel Enright was a member of their championship winning sides in recent years

CLUB NEWS: This Week’s Winning Numbers were 5, 15, 16, 18 and Bonus number 6. The result brought a match three cheque to Maureen Foran and Gay Doyle. Next week’s prize fund is €6,000.

EXERCISE:  Six weeks of classes to get ye fit n'fab for Christmas will take place on every Wednesday from 11th November at 10.30am in Windgap Community Centre. The classes for ladies only welcome all fitness levels. Classes will vary using kettlebells, dumbbells, steps and mats. All classes will work through three components of fitness, cardio/muscular endurance (tone & strength) & flexibility. All classes are pay as you go, so simply turn up that morning and join in. All enquiries welcome to Emer on (086)3743763

CRAFT FAIR INVITATION: Camphill Community for Special Needs, invite you to their Annual Craft Fair in Kyle Coolagh, on Sunday next the 15th of November from 1pm- 5pm. On the day there will be lots of glorious food, waffles and pittzas, so the advice is come hungry and enjoy the homemade selections of confectionery in the community tea room. Produce of the year for including Home grown vegetables Pottery Weavery and Baskets sale i.e. In addition there will be raffles, kid’s games and much more. All are welcome 

TRUMERA VISIT: In preparation for the championship game against Kilmacow in on Saturday last the Galmoy Windgap U21's played Trumera in a challenge on Sunday last. The Club of the last GAA President Liam O'Neill, Trumera are the Laois representatives in Leinster Intermediate Club Championship. The Galmoy Windgap team was: James Culleton, Darragh Morrissey, Darragh O Shea, Martin Duggan, Josh Price, Jason Stanley, Kieran Phelan, Sean Phelan, Frank Phelan, Peter Hennessy, Kevin Duggan, Patrick Grace, Brandan Phelan, Niall Walsh, and Jack Delaney. The Referee was Brochan O Reilly (Portlaoise)

OUR CLUB OUR FUTURE: Windgap Club members Simon Brophy, PJ Egan, Matthew O’Shea, John Enright, Brian O’Rourke, Declan Kennedy and Tom Egan joined delegates from  Mullinavat, Mooncoin, Windgap, Piltown, Slieverue, Ballyhale Shamrocks, Blacks and Whites at the Kilkenny GAA Club Regional Meetings for Coaches, Mentors, and Officers at Juvenile level in Mullinavat Community Centre on Tuesday last.

PARISH BULLETIN: Information for the parish bulletin at Sunday Masses can be emailed to [email protected] or dropped into the Parochial House by Thursday evening. Mobile number (085) 8830756.
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NOTES: Contributors and Clubs are invited to email items for publication with a name and contact number to [email protected] by Sunday evenings at 6pm. For all the local news and photos visit windgap.ie

​Nuachtlitir/Newsletter 1.18
Mass Times: Windgap: Saturday, 7.30 p.m. Tullahought: Sunday, 10 a.m. 
Masses for 16-20 November Windgap: Tuesday, 9.30 am; Friday, 9.30 am.
Tullahought, Thursday, 7.30 pm.
Windgap:    Readers: 31 Oct. Rita Phelan; 7 Nov. Caoimhe O'Shea; 14 Nov. Martin O'Shea; 21 Nov. Michelle O'Brien; 28 Nov. Sean Foley; 5 Dec. Larry O'Shea.
Eucharistic Ministers: Oct., 31, Ann O'Shea; Nov. 7, Breda O'Shea; 14, Margaret Mackey; 21, Joan Watter; 28, Liz Jackson.
Tullahought:    Eucharistic Ministers: Leo Conalty; Patricia Power; Mary Walsh; Eileen Grace.
November List for the Dead: Please leave your list in the basket on the altar. They will be remembered in the masses celebrated during the month.
Windgap Camogie: The Under 21s are playing the semi-final against Dicksboro in Danesfort on Sunday 15th Nov at 11am. All support welcome  
Right4UFitness – Windgap Parish Hall Hall, 10.30 am; 8 weeks to get fit for Christmas from Wed., 11 Nov. & every Wed. thereafter. Ladies only. All fitness levels welcome. Kettlebells, dumbbells, steps & mats will be used. Classes will work through 3 components of fitness. You pay as you go - so turn up - bring mat & bottle of water. Enquiries to Emer (086)3743763.
Workshop on Forgiveness, 18 Nov 2015. 8-9pm by Br. Michael Heffernan at Blessed Edmund Rice Centre, Callan. All are welcome.
The John Smyth Memorial Tractor Run in aid of Windgap N.S.and the Kilkenny Home Care Team was a marvellous tribute to the late John Smyth with over 200 tractors - from splendid blue and green ‘behemoths’ to Massey Fergusons – truly a sight to behold.
Annual Fair Camphill, Kyle, Coolagh takes place on Sunday, 15th November 2015, from 1pm to 5pm. Crafts, Wheel of Fortune, Children’s games & activities, vegetable stall, live music etc. 
Windgap Community Development Company will have its AGM on Wednesday next the 18th of November in the GAA Club Rooms at 8pm, all are welcome.
November Offerings: A Gentle Reminder that the November Offerings are now due.
Mount Carmel Annual Open Day: Mt. Carmel is holding its Annual Open Day on Sunday 15th Nov. 2-5pm; with music, refreshments, raffle etc.; admission €2; the McCarthy Cup will be there with some of Kilkenny heroes reliving their experiences ar páirc na himeartha.
Coolagh Cards & Raffle: Pre-Christmas card games for hams and hampers get under way in Coolagh Hall on Thur. 17 Nov. and continue each Thursday night until Christmas.
Jubilee Year of Mercy: Talk in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre, 7.30 p.m. Wed.18 Nov. Fr. Sean McDonagh – “Pope Francis’ Encyclical on caring for the environment ‘Laudato SI’”.
Special Collection: Sincere thanks for your continuing support for the Special Collection and a gentle reminder to those about to send in their contributions.
Progressive 25 Cards: Progressive 25 cards in Guinan’s, Friday, 20th November, at 9 pm. 
St. Mary’s Cathedral Fundraising: Monster Auction being organised for Saturday, 28 Nov. in O’Loughlin Gaels Sports Complex. Advertisements for auction catalogue: €40 quarter page, €60 half page. €100 full page. Auction items sought - Contact Fr Patrick Dalton at 0868283478.
Course for current and new Readers: St. Patrick’s Centre. Loughboy, 7.30 pm, Tues. 24 Nov. & Tues. 1st Dec.. The same course is being offered in Mullinavat Church at 7.30 pm Mon. 23 & 30th Nov. and Ballyragget Church: Wed. 25 Nov. & 2 Dec.
Ossory Priests Society Annual Collection – 22 November, Feast of Christ the King. The Ossory Priests Society (founded 1846) is responsible for the care of the priests in the diocese who are sick, infirm or incapacitated by old age.
Free  Electrical Recycling Day - Weee Ireland¬ www.recyclefree.ie - Carrick on Suir Fair Green Car Park, Sat., 21 Nov. 10.00am - 4.00pm TVs, Aerials/Microwaves IT Equipment/ Dishwashers/Fridges/Freezers/Power tools/Battery operated toys/Kettles, Toasters / batteries.
Upcoming: Windgap Annual Bazaar - Sunday, 13th December, in Windgap Community Hall, at 2 pm. Expect to receive more details go luath.  The Christmas Raffle is also about to be launched.  By the way, “bazaar” seems to be a loan word from Persian (bāzār = “a market”), entering the English language in the 1580s via Turkish and Italian perhaps.
Children’s Bereavement Awareness Day on 20 November is aimed at those supporting bereaved children, whether parents or carers, teachers, sports groups, faith communities or friends in their local communities. Kilkenny Bereavement Support will have a stand with trained volunteers in McDonagh Junction Shopping Mall (Nov. 20th) to support the initiative.
Priests of Windgap: Edward Nolan was born in Inch (Talbot’s Inch) in 1774 in St. Canice’s, Kilkenny. The family has headstones and monuments in the churchyard of St. Canice’s Cathedral.  He was uncle of Patrick Kelly, bishop of Waterford (1822-29) and grand uncle of the historian Fr Mathew Kelly.  He began his studies in the Old Academy (later St. Kieran’s) in 1793, went to Maynooth in 1797 but in 1798 was “rusticated”, suspected (not unreasonably) of showing disaffection towards his Majesty’s government.  Ordained in Kilkenny in 1801 he spent a year in his native parish, most likely living at home. He worked in his Alma Mater (1802-5). in Freshford (1805-07), St. Mary’s (1807-8) and Thomastown (1808-11) before returning to teach theology in the seminary, then in Maudlin St. Which had about 250 students. The seminary moved to Birchfield in 1814 and in August or September the following year he was appointed PP of Windgap and Dunnamaggin.  After 2½ years, Dr Mansfield, wishing to return to his old parish, exchanged parishes with Fr Nolan who became PP Gowran and Clara in March 1818. He remained there for the next 33 years. [Dr Mansfied probably brought with him from Gowran the French chalice now in Windgap that once belonged to Bryan Kavanagh PP Gowran].  The old chapel of Tullahought (taken down in 1890) was erected during Fr Nolan’s time in Windgap.  Until then the people had gone to Mass in Coolhill or Windgap. Fr Nolan was later Archdeacon and Dean of Ossory and a candidate for bishop after Dr Marum’s death in Dec. 1827. While PP Gowran and Clara he was president of St. Kyran’s College for three years (1839-42).
Reflection for Holy Souls: “You can shed tears that they have gone or you can smile because you have lived. You can close your eyes and pray that they’ll come back, or you can open your eyes and see all they have left. Your heart can be empty because you can’t see them, or you can be full of the love you shared. You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday. You can remember only that you have gone, or you can cherish their memory and let it live on. You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back or you can do what they’d want: smile open your eyes, love and go 

Mass Times: Windgap: Saturday, 7.30 p.m. Tullahought: Sunday, 10 a.m. 
Masses for 8-13 November: Windgap: Monday, 9.30 am; Friday, 9.30 am 
Tullahought, Thursday, 7.30 pm
Windgap:    Readers: 31 Oct. Rita Phelan; 7 Nov. Caoimhe O'Shea; 14 Nov. Martin O'Shea; 21 Nov. Michelle O'Brien; 28 Nov. Sean Foley; 5 Dec. Larry O'Shea
Eucharistic Ministers: Oct., 31, Ann O'Shea; Nov. 7, Breda O'Shea; 14, Margaret Mackey; 21, Joan Watter; 28, Liz Jackson.
Tullahought:    Eucharistic Ministers: Leo Conalty; Patricia Power; Mary Walsh; Eileen Grace.
November List for the Dead: Please leave your list in the basket on the altar. They will be remembered in the masses celebrated during the month.
THE  JOHN SMYTH MEMORIAL TRACTOR RUN in aid of Windgap N.S.and the Kilkenny Home Care Team takes place on Saturday 14th November at 12 noon in Windgap; entrance fee €20 per tractor; to book a tractor ring 0872527722 or just turn up on the day with tractor. At the stop in Killamery refreshments will be provided and an auction and raffle will take place; the tractors will return to Windgap via Oldcastle passing by John Smyth’s house. Those wishing to donate home produce - buns, cakes, vegetables, jams, etc for the event, should leave same in Windgap Hall by 11am on Sat. 14th November.
Right4UFitness – Windgap Parish Hall Hall, 10.30 am; 8 weeks to get fit for Christmas from Wed., 11 Nov. & every Wed. thereafter. Ladies only. All fitness levels welcome. Kettlebells, dumbbells, steps & mats will be used. Classes will work through 3 components of fitness - cardio/muscular endurance (tone & strength) & flexibility. You pay as you go – so turn up & join in; bring mat & bottle of water. Enquiries to Emer (086)3743763.
Annual Fair Camphill, Kyle – change of date: The Annual Fair of the Camphill Community, Kyle,  Coolagh, will take place on Sunday, 15th November 2015, from 1pm to 5pm. Crafts, Wheel of Fortune, Children’s games & activities, vegetable stall, live music etc. 
Knit and Stitch Show in RDS: A Bus will be travelling to the Knit and Stitch Show in the RDS on Thursday, November 12th.  Cost, €30, including entry fee. 
St. Brigid’s College, Callan 5k Fun Run: Sun 8th Nov at 12.30. Registration from 10.30 am. Beat radio are hosting the event with giveaways, face painting and promotions, etc.. 
Irish Catholic: Please note the price of Irish Catholic has been raised to €1.80.
November Offerings: A Gentle Reminder that the November Offerings are now due.
Mount Carmel Open Day: Mt. Carmel is holding its Annual Open Day on Sunday 15th Nov. 2-5pm; with music, refreshments, raffle etc.; admission €2; the McCarthy Cup will be there with some of Kilkenny heroes reliving their experiences ar páirc na himeartha.
Coolagh Cards & Raffle: Pre-Christmas card games for hams and hampers get under way in Coolagh Hall on Thur. 17 Nov. and continue each Thursday night until Christmas.
Jubilee Year of Mercy: Talks in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre, 7.30 p.m. each night: Wed. 11th Nov. Fr.  Albert McDonnell – “the new, less cumbersome marriage annulment process as ‘justice tempered with the sweetness of mercy’”; Wed.18 Nov. Fr. Sean McDonagh – “Pope Francis’ Encyclical on caring for the environment ‘Laudato SI’”; admission free.
Course for current and new Readers: St. Patrick’s Centre. Loughboy, 7.30 pm, Tues. 24 Nov. & Tues. 1st Dec.. The same course is being offered in Mullinavat Church at 7.30 pm Mon. 23 & 30th Nov. and Ballyragget Church: Wed. 25 Nov. & 2 Dec..
St. Mary’s Cathedral Fundraising: Monster Auction will be held on 29th November, in O’Loughlin Hall. Advertisements for the auction book and lots for sale are being sought costing  €100 for full page, €60 half page and €40 quarter page. Concerts are planned for 2016 in Langton’s, John Street, Kilkenny, on 19 February, 15 March, 28 April and 18 May.
Free  Electrical Recycling Day - Weee Ireland¬ www.recyclefree.ie - Carrick on Suir Fair Green Car Park (side of Library), Sat., 21 Nov. from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm TVs, Aerials / Microwaves /IT Equipment / Dishwashers / Fridges / Freezers / Power tools / Battery operated toys / Kettles, Toasters / batteries.
Special Collection: Sincere thanks for your continuing support for the Special Collection.
Priests of Windgap: Dr Richard Mansfield: was born in Rathbeagh (Lisdowney) or its immediate neighbourhood in 1744 and is said to have been the nephew of Mark Mansfield, P.P. Danesfort.  He was ordained by Bishop Burke at Edward Staunton’s house in Leggetsrath, on 28 May 1768.  He then went to France to the College of Nantes to read the usual five year course in Philosophy and Theology.  It was customary at the time to ordain men before sending them to the continent to study so that they would be able to support themselves with mass offerings.  Having completed his studies he was ordained but stayed in University of Nantes where he was for many years professor of Theology.  He returned to Ireland about 1780 and was appointed parish priest of Muckalee.  He was appointed parish priest of Windgap and Dunnamaggin on 15 November 1783.  He was made Canon of Kilmanagh on 5 December 1783 and Chancellor of the diocese around 1790.  When Bishop John Dunne visited the parish in 1788 Dr Mansfield gave the following account of what was in each of his chapels: “one blue vestment with linnen, altar stone and chalice etc. at the Chappel of Dangenmore, and one green vestment with linnen, altar stone and chalice at the chapel of Windgap, with a Missal belonging to each Chappel”. 
 Dr Mansfield was president of the diocesan college in Kilkenny from 1791-93. He was appointed to this post by Bishop Lanigan to oversee the beginning of a seminary course in the college, The course which began in 1792 was the first such course in Ireland after the repeal of some of the penal laws.  He probably kept a watching brief over Windgap and Dunnamaggin from Kilkenny while curates looked after the spiritual needs of the parishioners. He returned to full duty in 1793.
Dr Mansfield was appointed Dean of Ossory in 1811.  He was appointed Vicar Capitular after the death of Bishop Lanigan in 1812 and governed the diocese until the appointment of Kyran Marum (a native of Galmoy) as bishop in 1814.  During his time in charge he became embroiled in a dispute with Fr Morrissey in Owning over the building of a new chapel in Templeorum. The dispute became very heated with Dr Mansfield favouring the building of a chapel that would cost £3,000 (the present chapel in Templeorum), while Fr Morrisey favoured a smaller chapel costing only £600.  Dr Mansfield continued as vicar general and dean of the diocese under Bishop Marum. He was translated to the parish of Gowran and Clara in Aug. or Sept. 1815 but returned to Windgap and Dunnamaggin in March 1818.  
Dr Mansfield seems to have lived at first in the townland of Shrughavadda - in a house occupied in 1890 by Mrs Crowley – but later moved to the house built in Kilmoganny by his predecessor Dr Phelan (now St. Joseph’s Home).  He died in this house in Kilmoganny on 13 September 1826 in his 82nd year and was buried in Windgap chapel.  After his death Windgap and Dunnamaggin, which had been united since the 1620s, were divided into separate parishes.

​INTRODUCTION TO FREE HEALTHCARE SUPPORT CLASSES 

The Back to Education Initiative (Kilkenny and Carlow ETB) are currently recruiting for a range of part-time courses in Sth. Kilkenny.

Subject to interest, we plan to commence with a FREE part-time course in Piltown Community Centre in January 2016 for all those interested in working towards a Major Award in Healthcare Support at QQI Level 5.

Classes are scheduled to run 2 mornings a week from 9.20 am - 1.40 pm. If you would like to find out more, please attend at our upcoming Information/Registration Session as follows: 

Date: Tuesday, 24th November 2015 Time: 12.00 - 1.30 pm Venue: Piltown Community Centre 

Please bring the following information with you to this session (as relevant): PPS Number Medical Card Proof of Residency Status (non-EU citizens) 

Mary Butler BTEI Co-ordinator Kilkenny and Carlow ETB 
Tel: 056 7701020 
Email: [email protected] Webpage