THE SOCIAL NETWORK:Christmas came early on Thursday evening when the Solomon Gallery on Balfe street held the private preview opening of its Christmas exhibition.

The banker John Cunningham said he has to decline an invitation for lunch with Bill Clinton for lunch today. He said JP McManus has invited the former US president to the University of Limerick to attend and speak at the All Ireland Scholarship Awards, but Cunningham had to send his regrets as he promised that he’d spend time with a friend. Presidents come and go; friends are for life.

Norma Smurfit left early to attend the opening night of My Cousin Rachel at the Gate Theatre. Christine Ryall of Christies and her husband, Patrick, are looking forward to going to the US to celebrate their wedding anniversary.

’Tis the season of bazaars, sales of work and bring and buys. The Royal Hospital Donnybrook is holding its Christmas sale in the concert hall of the hospital from 10am-2pm today. Gifts, jewellery, bric-a-brac and cakes await, all in a good cause.