SAN Francisco expats Maeve Slattery and Robbie and Barbara Fallon had an opportunity to compare West Coast notes at the launch of the Clarecastle Show recently. Another back from America and at last Thursday’s launch was Michael Blake and his brother John, whose local show in Scarrif is on Sunday, September 6th this year.

“Florida was wonderful for the winter. I’m delighted to be here tonight to support my good friend, Michael Slattery,” said Michael. “What he has is an energy that he creates and that energises people. I remember my mum telling me that, when Michael refereed an All-Ireland, it was the first time the linesmen and umpires were all properly dressed for the Final. That’s the kind of professionalism and perfection in the man. He brings that to everything he touches.”