McKenna's former staff at the book launch and Wrenboys' Night in Listowel in September 2018

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To Celebrate Listowel's win in the Tidy Town Competition 2018

Here are some more photos from our lovely town.
These were  taken last Tuesday by the Feale.

" My heart, tonight, is lonely for my sire land
Though many miles of ocean lie between
My heart tonight is home again Ireland
Upon thy banks, my silver river Feale'

These lines from Bryan MacMahon's Silver River Feale are a thank you mention to all the emigrants who have contacted me to tell me how they long to be in Listowel to celebrate the town's victory in the Tidy Town competition.
Listowel has a very proud diaspora.

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At the Launch of Spoilt Rotten

Former staff, former customers, family and friends were on hand to congratulate Jack McKenna on reaching the 100 and on starring in this book about his life, Spoilt Rotten

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Wrenboys Competition, Listowel, Sept 14 2018

As I came out of Allos after a delicious meal in great company following an enjoyable day at the Races, what is making its way down Church Street but a procession of wren boys  on their way to the Square for the annual Harvest Festival Wrenboy competition?

I learned later that this was the Ballybunion troupe who were first up on stage.The spectacle was amazing with the procession being led by 2 men with lighted sods of turf on pitchforks leading the way. The colour, the music and the sheer joy of it all was magical to behold.

A good crowd had gathered on the streets to cheer them on.

The "king' was resplendent in crown and cape.

Bean an Tí for the night was Frances Kennedy. She played her part to perfection and she and the fear an Tí told stories to beat the band.

It was a joy to see so many talented young people among the dancers, singers and musicians. The future of Irish culture is in safe hands.

Frances won the overall prize for the best individual performance.

Owen MacMahon was an inspired choice as M.C. He did a super job.

The night was wet and cold so I didn't stay to see the others groups. Kileedy won and they were excellent as were all the performers on a great night in town.

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An Invitation

 In St. John's on Monday evening next at 7.00p.m. Dillon Boyer is planning an information evening about Palliative Care and the work of the Palliative Care Unit in KUH.

The evening will also feature an exhibition of Dillon's photographs.