Cork makes Lonely Planet's top 10 cities

Cork City has been named among the top 10 in the best cities to visit in the Lonely Planet guide's 'Best in Travel 2010'.

The guide praises the city saying 'Cork is at the top of its game right now: sophisticated, vibrant and diverse, while still retaining its friendliness, relaxed charm and quick-fire wit.'

The book's editor said : 'Cork has been in Dublin's shadows for far too long, it has emerged as a fantastic destination in its own right with great restaurants, galleries, bars and shops as well as stunning scenery on its doorstep.'

{Read the full article here}

Large Gathering for Christie Hennessy Unveiling

Over a thousand people gathered in Tralee Town Square on Saturday for the unveiling of a life-size sculpture of the famous Tralee-born singer/songwriter Christie Hennessy (1945-2007) by his friend Christy Moore and Christie’s widow Gill Hennessy Ross. Christie’s music filled the air as the crowd congregated. The large gathering included family and friends from Tralee and the UK, celebrities, politicians, a large press corps, fans from all over Ireland and those who had appreciated Christie’s music.

Town Clerk Mike Scannell sketched the background of the project which had overwhelming support from the people of Tralee. Within two months of Christie’s untimely death in December 2007 the Council was working on a ‘fitting tribute to the gifted son of Tralee’. An international sculptural competition was organised and the commission awarded to Nicholas Dimbleby from Devon. He thanked all those who had helped including Hennessy/ Ross family, Mark Leen, Cllr. Johnnie Wall, Kate Kennelly, the Kerry County Arts Officer, Nicholas Dimbleby, Sharon O’Keeffe, Council staff and, in particular, Gerry Riordan, Tralee Town Engineer who had overseen the work from its inception.

Deputy Mayor Cllr. Mairead Fernane welcomed Christie’s family and other visitors including his friend Christy Moore...

Read the full article and view photos of the event on the Tralee.ie website.