Back to School, Visiting the Sick and New Beginnings

Back To School.
I know all the boys and girls in our area are delighted that it is almost time to return to school after the Summer holidays. Many of the Secondary school students are returning this week and we wish them all the very best of luck especially those starting secondary school for the first time.

The children from Ballyduff NS will return on Monday September 2nd and we wish them all a wonderful happy year. We welcome all the new families to our school and hope that their experience is a pleasant one.

We were all told as we grew up that our schooldays were the best days of our lives and of course it sounded ridiculous at that young age but as we became adults we knew the real truth in it.

 

Our Sympathy.
We send our deepest sympathy to the Doyle family on the death of Don Doyle during the week. Don lived a quiet and private life in the family home at Blacknock. He and his beloved wife Bridget reared their children there and welcomed grandchildren in later years. Blacknock is of course a place of friendliness and good neighbours and a lovely place to live and I am sure Don and Bridget knew they had chosen the perfect family home. We hope that Don now rests in gentle peace and that his family will find comfort in their memories of him.

GAA News.

A big well done to the U11 footballers who recorded a great defeat over John Mitchells in a 3-7 to 3-5 in a rip roaring close encounter. While missing a good few regulars the team dug deep and came out on top. This group are admired for their never say die attitude.

A huge well done and congratulations to clubman Jack O Donnell who was part of the Waterford U15 football team who defeated Westmeath 2-10 to 2-8 to win the Dermot Early shield. This is a wonderful achievement for Jack and I have no doubt that his family are immensely proud of him as are his club and parish.

Congratulations to the Ballyduff GAA and LGFA players who represented their club and county so well in the All Ireland Community Games in UL. This talented bunch of ladies reached the All Ireland semi final and returned home with bronze medals in camogie. Their determination is an inspiration to us all.

Visiting The Sick

As you are well aware we have a custom here in our parish of visiting the sick people of the parish with Holy Communion after mass each Sunday. Volunteer Ministers bring the Eucharist to the person in their home and I know they are extremely grateful for this. If you or someone you know are sick at home and unable to attend mass but would like to receive the Eucharist then please contact Fr. Mick or Ann in the sacristy and they will make sure you are on the list.

The sick of our parish are very dear to both priests and they like to make sure that they visit them whether they are sick at home or in hospital. While they regularly call to the sick and elderly there are times when people from the parish are ill and the priest would not know. Due to all the new data protection laws etc it is not as easy for them to find out who is in hospital from their parish and so are reliant on family or friends of the person letting them know. If at any stage someone from the parish is sick in hospital or at home and would like a visit from the priest, Fr. Mick asks that you might let myself Linda Spillane 087-9838392 know and I can pass on the details to him.

 

New Beginings

Although we think of the start of a New Year as a time for new beginnings, I think that the month of September can bring great changes to peoples lives. Parents watch as children head back to school or begin primary or secondary school for the first time. Children head off to school hoping that they will fit in and find their place. Young adults head off in all directions to colleges and universities, leaving behind the security of home. Many begin new jobs, apprenticeships, courses hoping that they have chosen wisely. Your next step should always be the one you choose yourself not because its what you think others want or expect from you.Our lives on this earth are short enough so we must spend them doing what we are passionate about, what interests us most. Everyday we get up is a new beginning, a chance to learn something new, make a new friend, explore something new. September is a month of “firsts”, first day of playschool, first day of primary school, first day of secondary school, first day of college, first day of new adventures or just simply a first day!

Every Day is a new beginning. Treat it that way

Stay away from what might have been and look at what can be.

Notes Contact
Many activities and organiasations start up their activities and meetings again in the next few weeks. If you would like to let people about your group or meetings or events you are holding then please drop me a line at spillanelinda2017@gmail.com or call or text on 087-9838392 or if you see me out and about come over for a chat. A big thank you to all my regular contributors and I look forward to meeting many new ones in the coming months

Wedding Bells, Get your Coffee and New Venture

New Secretary.

Ballyduff AFC are delighted to welcome Joanne King as their new club secretary. We know that Joanne will give her very best to the job and we wish her every success.

We also say a big thank you to outgoing secretary Jenny Kirk who has given great dedication and committment to the club. The club are very grateful for all the hard work she has put into the club and wish her the very best for the future.

 

Wedding Bells.

We send our heartiest congratulations to local Ballyduff girl Edel O Keeffe who said “I do” to the love of her life Jimmy Quirke last weekend. Edel and Jimmy shared their day with their families and friends and the bride looked stunning as she arrived to meet her husband to be. Of course there is another young man in Edels life and that is their gorgeous son Alex who looked extremely handsome in his suit. We wish this happy little family the very best that life has to offer and we hope their future is full of love and laughter.

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 21,22,24 and 28 and there was no winner of the jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Peg Power, Stephen Torpey and Catherine Power. The next draw will take place on August 24th and there will be a fantastic jackpot of €12,500 up for grabs. Tickets cost just €2 or three for €5 and are on sale from all committee members and will be on sale at Centra on Saturday August 24th. Choose your four numbers and your luck may be in.

Results Time.

We congratulate all the young men and women who received their Leaving Cert results last week. We hope that everyone was happy and if not remember that its not the end of the world. There are always many ways to get to a destination so just take a breath, take advice and remember that you are worth ten times more than any exam tells you. Whether your next step is off to college, starting an apprenticeship, starting work, back to repeat, off on your travels or taking some time out to decide your next move, we all wish the very best for you and hope that whatever path you take in life it brings you happiness and contentment.

Get Your Coffee.

I headed down with some little friends of mine, well in fact if I am honest even though they were children they’re all nearly taller than me but anyway we headed down to the beautiful Suir Valley railway on Friday August 9th. Damien and the crew from WLR broadcasted their morning show and were delighted with the lovely Kilmeaden welcome. Unfortunately the weather wasn’t the best on the day but that didn’t take from the atmosphere on the day as local people gathered to join in the fun. Many locals and groups from the area were interviewed and given a chance to tell all about what their club or organisation was all about. It was a chance also for the railway crew and volunteers to showcase their great amenity and invite all to visit, have a spin on the train taking in the beauty of the scenic route, maybe stopping off for a visit to Mount Congreve gardens and then back to enjoy a lovely warm cuppa and a slice of one of the many delicious cakes on offer. We wish all the crew and many volunteers at Waterford Suir Valley Railway continued success and thank them for taking such pride in their place.

GAA News

The club were delighted last week to visit the railway and be given the opportunity to speak to Damien Tiernan from WLR and showcase what the club is all about. It was a very special occasion and the club wish all at WSVR the very best of luck with their new coffee dock.

The U9 footballers had a great league game last week defeating John Mitchells 10-5 to 5-3. True sportmanship was on show as some of the Ballyduff lads had to play with the opposition because they were short players. There were some great skills on show and everyone got to take part and enjoy the experience.

The U11 footballers also recorded a great win over John Mitchells in a rip roaring close encounter ending in a scoreline of 3-7 to 3-5. Although a few regulars were missing the team really dug deep and came out on top. This team really have a never say die attitude which everyone admires.

New Venture.

It is wonderful to see another new business opening up in our area. We extend a warm welcome to Prim and Proper who have opened up in the Kilmeaden Business Centre. This ladies consignment boutique sell pre owned and new Couture, designer, high street brands, fashion accessories, jewellery, bespoke hats and fasinators. Something here for every occasion and every day wear. Call in and give them a warm welcome and a little browse around. We wish all at Prim and Proper the very best of luck and thank them for choosing Kilmeaden as their base.

Little Princess, Results Are In and Drop a Line

Little Princess.

We send our warmest congratulations to local couple Louise and Ian Doogue on the recent birth of their beautiful baby daughter Annabelle. This very lucky girl has the benefit of having big brother Eoin ready and willing to show her the ropes and the best ways to win mammy and daddy around if needs be. We wish this happy little family every happiness and look forward to meeting Annabelle in person.

Ruby Couple.

We send heartiest congratulations and best wishes to Pakie and Nell Ryan who recently celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary. The happy couple celebrated in the company of their sons and daughters and all their beautiful grandchildren. I know Pakie and Nell enjoy a dance or two so hopefully they got to enjoy a turn or two around the floor. We wish them many more happy and healthy years of wedded bliss.

Results Are In!
We wish the very best of luck to all those who are awaiting their Leaving Cert results. We hope that the work and committment that they put in will be rewarded. If for any reason you are disappointed in any way then please keep the head up there are many different routes to get to your destination. Some take the straight road through while others take a more scenic route. There is something out there waiting for all of you whether it is a college place, an apprenticeship, a job, travel, a year out. Whatever route you choose to take we wish you every happiness and a life that is full of good health, happiness and laughter.

 

Birthday Boy

We send happy birthday wishes to local celebrity Harry(Chops) Power, Adamstown who recently celebrated a milestone birthday. His milestone birthday of 21 plus a bit of vat was celebrated in The Sweep with friends and family and a few bottles of lemonade. We wish Harry many more happy birthdays to come.

Drop A Line.

If you would like me to include any item in these notes for you then please drop me an email on spillanelinda2017@gmail.com or you can get me on 087-9838392 or indeed we can go mad altogether and meet up for a chat.

First Class Welcome, Paddy the Gent and Wedded Bliss

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 21, 22, 25 and 27. There was no winner of the jackpot but the three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Neasa Cornwell, Miriam Daly and Seamus Connolly. The next draw will take place on August 10th and will have a terrific jackpot of €12,500 up for grabs. Tickets are available from all committee members and will also be on sale at Centra on Saturday August 10th. Tickets are just €2 each or three for €5. Choose those four numbers carefully and that wonderful jackpot could be yours to treat yourself or you can treat me if you want!!

 

Summer Concert.

On Saturday August 10th Fairbrook House will open their gardens and museum to the public and treat them to two concerts, the first from 1pm to 3pm and 5pm to 7pm. Both concerts will feature the same excellent programme. Vincent de Lange will lead things off. This Amsterdam based cellist/ singer/ composer will perform music from Neapolitan songs, parts of Bach suites, some of his own compositions and two Irish songs, accompanying himself on cello. During the interval you can enjoy a stroll in the garden or a view in the museum while enjoying some bubbles and nibbles.

Lithuanian/Israeli singer Raimonda Masiulyte will then begin the entertainment for the second half. Raimonda performs a great blend of music that transcends the boundaries of Jazz, Soul and Gospel. Her voice enchants and has taken her all around the world. She will be accompanied by Hugh Buckley on guitar. For more information you can call 051-384657 or email artmastenbroek@gmail.com or visit www.fairbrook-house.com

GAA News.

Our Intermediate hurlers recorded a fine win over St. Mollerans last week with a scoreline of 3-20 to 3-12. This was a huge win for the lads as they were missing a few regulars. The lads are really flying it again this year so keep up the good work.

A big well done and thank you to all who attended and supported the recent Table Quiz in aid of the Juvenile section of the club. A fantastic €1015 was raised for which the club are very grateful. A big thank you to all the generous sponsors on the night, to all at The Sweep, Quizmaster Gavin Whelan and all who took part.

First Class Welcome

As part of the world GAA games, Ballyduff were twinned with the ladies and gentlemen from South Africa. I popped along to Tom Cheasty Park last Tuesday night as the club invited their South African friends to meet with the players and community. I was thrilled to see such interaction between the teams,players showing each other different skills and asking each other questions.

It was then onto The Sweep for some light refreshments and music and chat. Unfortunately I couldn’t join the group here but I have it on very good authority that a wonderful night was had by all. The very talented Mia Whyte gave a tremendous display of Irish dancing and our new African friends also entertained the crowd with traditional song and dance.

I must say that these World games were really something spectacular to watch. Carriganore was of course a perfect venue and the sea of different coloured jerseys that greeted you on your arrival was heartwarming. Nations interacting and enjoying the beauty of our native games which are so special to us. We all have friends or relatives now living abroad and the existence of these hurling, football and camogie teams must surely give them some grounding and feeling of home. The World Games really brought something special to our county with players, coaches, communities coming together, children looking on in awe and young and old enjoying our beautiful games.

Paddy the Gent.

We were all very saddened last week to hear of the untimely death of Paddy White from Oldcourt. Paddy was indeed a gentleman always up for a friendly chat and a bit of fun. Paddy was first and foremost a family man who just adored his wife Diane, their son Sean and their grandsons. The other great loves in his life were his garden and his model railways. Paddy was indeed a man who knew the plants and shrubs of his garden inside out he knew the best spot in the garden to plant each tree and shrub. He was also very generous with the produce of his garden and I myself was very lucky every year to receive a bag of the tastiest plums you could ever find. Paddy will be remembered as a private, quiet and unassuming man who simply loved his life with his wife and family in their beautiful home surrounded by everything that was special to them. We shall all miss Paddy and we hope that he now enjoys the peace and comfort of heaven and the Lord has now scored himself a gardening expert.

Our Sympathies

We extend our deepest sympathies to Alison Cornwell, Ballyduff West on the recent death of his beloved father. Tony Jacob was a resident of Dominics Place. Tonys funeral mass took place in the Holy Family Church and he was laid to rest in St. Marys cemetery, Ballygunner. Our deepest sympathy to Alison, Martin, Brianan and Neasa and all the Jacob family.

 

Fun Run/Walk.

Final training sessions are now under way for the annual Liz(Eilis) Hayes Memorial Fun Run/Walk. Friday August 9th will see all walkers and runners gather in Ballyduff Village for this much looked forward event. The walkers will head off at 6.45pm while the runners will leave at 7.30pm. The entry fee for adults is €10 and students and walkers are €5 with all proceeds going to the Ballyduff Community Centre Redevelopment Fund and Focus Ireland. Timings will be looked after by the West Waterford Athletic Club. There will be cash prizes for the first couple home in the individual categories and many spot prizes along the way also. After the race there will be plenty of tasty refreshments in the Community Hall followed by the prize giving.

Wedded Bliss
I would like to send heartiest congratulations to my own sister Mary and her husband Eamonn O Leary who celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary on August 5th. They were married on August 5th 1989 in St. Nicholas church, Ballyduff and then we headed to the beautiful park in Kilmacthomas for photos before heading on to The Park Hotel for a great night. At the tender age of 16 it was my first experience of a wedding so I can remember all the details carefully. Delighted to say that the happy couple are still enjoying every day in their beautiful home in Kilmagemogue with their daughters Jessica and Amy and of course Pepper the dog. On behalf of all the family I would like to wish Mary and Eamonn many more happy years full of good health, love and laughter.

I also heard on the grapevine this week of another young couple celebrating their wedding anniversary. Well known and loved Ballyduff couple Christy and Vera O Keeffe celebrated 47 years of marriage.They obviously must have got married straight after their Confirmation. We hope that this very popular couple enjoy many more happy and healthy years in the company of their children and their beloved grandchildren.

Birthday Girl, GAA News and Concert in the Garden

Birthday Girl.

We send warm 21st birthday wishes to local Gortaclode lady Amber Searson. Amber celebrated her milestone birthday with her family and friends, with parents Shay and Edel and brother Scott making sure that everything was perfect. We hope Amber enjoyed the celebrations and wish her many more happy and healthy birthdays.

 

GAA News.
Our U13 lady footballers got their season off to a great start with a tremendous win over Old Parish in their first game. It is wonderful to see these players play with such confidence and determination. Brilliant teamwork was on display with superb passing and support play on show.

Our U10 hurlers put on a superb performance against St. Saviours and came away winners on a scoreline of 7-1 to 2-6. With a few good players missing the team dug deep and showed geat teamwork. A big thank you to all the supporters.

Our local club are delighted to be part of the World GAA Games and both our male and female football teams are thrilled to be twinned with the South African mens and womens football. The South African teams will travel to Kilmeaden on Tuesday July 30th and Ballyduff will play host for the evening giving us a chance to showcase our club and community. The Sweep Bar will be the venue on Tuesday evening from 7.30pm to 9.30pm and all are invited to come along and enjoy some refreshments and entertainment.

The GAA World Games will bring a colourful, festive atmosphere to Waterford city and admission to all the games over the three days in Carriganore is free. Apart from being a great sports event the games give us a wonderful opportunity to showcase our city and county as a perfect tourist destination.

 

Memorial Fun Run/Walk

The annual 5 mile run/walk held each year in the memory of the wonderful Liz Hayes will take place on Friday August 9th. Walkers will head off from Ballyduff Village at 6.45pm followed by the runners at 7.30pm. Entry on the night will be €10 for runners and €5 for walkers and all proceeds will go to the Ballyduff Hall Redevelopment Fund and Focus Ireland.

The picturesque route takes you along by the beautiful Knockaderry Lake and there will be cash prizes for the first three males and females home along with the first over 40 and over 50 males and females. There will also be a cash prize for the first junior home and many other spot prizes along the way. The West Waterford Athletic club will take care of the timings and as always there will be a fine array of refreshments in the hall following the event along with the prize giving.

There is always a lovely atmosphere around for this event and all are welcome to come along and enjoy the event. To find out more and keep in touch why not take a look at their Facebook page Liz(Eilis) Hayes Memorial Fun Run.

Tractor Run.
A big well done to the Kilmeaden Vintage Tractor Club who held their annual tractor run last weekend. Although the weather wasn’t as kind as other years it didn’t stop the fun or dampen the spirits of those taking part. There was a fine display of vehicles on show to the delight of both young and old. They headed off from Haughtons in their convoy around the roads of the area and then returned back safely welcomed by the beautiful smell of the sizzling barbeque. Top DJ was also on hand to play some tunes and keep them entertained. Congratulations once again to the organisers who made sure everything ran smoothly on the day. All proceeds of course on the day go to The Solas Centre and I will have the final total for you in the coming weeks so stay tuned.

 

Concert in the Garden

Fairbrook House will host their yearly Summer concert on Saturday August 10th. There are two chances on the day to enjoy this concert, firstly from 1pm to 3pm and also from 5pm to 7pm. The first part of the program will see internationally performing cellist/singer/composer Vincent de Lange perform a selection of music from Neapolitan songs, parts of Bach suites, some of his own compositions and two Irish songs accompanying himself on cello.

During the interval you are invited to take a stroll in the garden or the museum while enjoying some bubbles and nibbles. For the second part of the concert you can enjoy Lithuanian/Israeli singer Raimonda Masiulyte perform a great blend of music that transcends the boundaries of Jazz, Soul and Gospel. Her voice enchants and she will accompanied by Hugh Buckley on guitar. If you would like any further information please contact 051-384657 or www.fairbrook-house.comor drop an email to artmastenbroek@gmail.com

Summer Concert, A True Character and Halley on Fire

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 3, 19, 20 and 27. There was no winner of the jackpot but the three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Rose, Susan and Kathleen O Toole, Renee Power and Michael Power. The next draw will take place on July 28th and there will be a fantastic jackpot of €12,500 up for grabs.

Tickets cost just €2 each or three for €5 and are on sale from all committee members and will also be on sale at Centra on Saturday July 27th. Choose those four lucky numbers carefully and you could be planning your shopping spree.

Newcastle Graveyard Mass

The annual graveyard mass at Newcastle cemetery takes place on Wednesday July 24th at 7.30pm. This is a wonderful opportunity for us all to remember our ancestors and pray for all those buried in the graveyard, some of them in unmarked graves. Of course our ancestors would have always walked to mass so in their memory a faith walk will leave Ballyduff church at 6.30pm and make its way to Newcastle cemetery for the 7.30pm mass.

Summer Concert

On Saturday August 10th Fairbrook House will host their yearly concert in the garden or in the museum in case of rain. The organisers are delighted to welcome international performing cellist,singer and composer Vincent de Lange. Based in Amsterdam he will perform a selection of music from Neapolitan songs, parts of Bach suites, some of his own compositions and two Irish songs, accompanying himself on cello.

During the interval you are invited to enjoy a stroll in the garden, a view in the museum and some bubbles and nibbles.

The second half of the show will see Lithuanian/Israeli singer Raimonda Masiulyte perform a wonderful blend of music that transcends the boundaries of Jazz, Soul and Gospel. Now based in Dublin her voice enchants and has taken her all over the world. Accompanying her on guitar will be Hugh Buckley.

There will be two chances on the day for you to enjoy this concert, the first from 1pm to 3pm and the second from 5pm to 7pm. For more information please call 051-384657 or email artmastenbroek@gmail.com or visit www.fairbrook-house.com

GAA News

The U10’s put in a great performance in the league as they defeated Ferrybank 5-2 to 1-2. There were some superb performances and a big thanks to all their coaches for the time they put in.

The U16 County Football panel saw some great club men taking part in the Munster Tournament. A big well done to Cian Bolger, Aaron Cheasty, Devin Keogh and Keith Millea who are a credit to their parents and their coaches.

A great morning of fun was had by the boys and girls from the academy section as they welcomed Kilmacow for a blitz. It is amazing to see the way this young group are developing their skills every week. A big thank you to all who provided the wonderful selection of cakes and refreshments.

Our Junior Footballers had two impressive wins last week beating St. Mollerans 4-14 to 3-9 and Dunhill 5-5 to 1-7. This team are looking good for the final stages and hopefully they will bring home some more silverware.

How wonderful to see almost 90 children in Kildermody last week enjoying the annual Cul Camp. What a wonderful experience for them all to enjoy the freedom to run around having fun with their friends, making new friends and learning the skills of the games. I must say I have been dropping and collecting two little friends of mine from it and they are full of praise and compliments and had an absolute ball everyday. I have to say also that the gear and bags that they received looked brilliant.

Quiz Time Beckons!

I have met many of you during the week who are busy getting ready for the Quiz Night which is fast approaching. Of course some of you didn’t even see me because you had your heads stuck in a book. The Juvenile section of our local GAA club will host this quiz in the hope of raising some money to purchase some equipment. The Sweep Bar and Restaurant is the venue on Friday July 26th with a start time of 8pm. A team of four will cost €20 and there will be prizes on the night and of course the customary raffle. Quizmaster will be Gavin Whelan and this promises to be a brilliant night for club and community.

Halley On Fire

I’m sure as you are out and about you will have often met Ballyshunnock man Eamon Halley out cycling. Mind you if you did happen to blink as he was approaching you probably hadn’t a hope of seeing him.

As well as being a proud member of the Portlaw Village Wheelers Cycling Club, he is also a member of the Waterford Racing Club. Last week he headed off to Golden for the Willie Slattery Memorial series of races hosted by Tipp Wheelers. I am delighted to report back that Eamonn had a great race and returned home in 4th position. A big well done to Eamonn who puts a lot of work into his training. We wish him continued success.

A True Character

We were all saddened this week to hear of the death of Arthur Curry Snr, Ballyduff. Arthur was definetely a character and a half never afraid to speak his mind and always ready with a story to tell. Hailing from Liverpool he was always proud of his roots. However once coming to Ireland and meeting the love of his life Cait there was no going back for him and it was here in Ballyduff that they would make their home and raise their children Arthur and Elizabeth and in later years enjoy the company of grandchildren Jordan, Emily and Ali.

Arthur spent his working life as an electrician and spent many years working in Kilmeaden Cheese Factory which of course was a great employer here for many years. Arthur when in good health loved to socialise with friends and enjoyed nothing better than a good pint and a chat.

Arthur of course is predeceased by his wonderful wife Cait and we hope that the family will draw comfort from knowing that the two will now be reunited once again. We pray that they both now rest in peace where pain and suffering is no more and they will enjoy the peace and comfort of heaven.

Memorial Fun Run/Walk

The annual Liz(Eilis) Hayes Memorial Fun Run/Walk is now getting close and the training is stepping up. On Friday August 9th the walkers will leave Ballyduff Village at 6.45pm while the runners will take off at 7.30pm. Entry is €10 and €5 for the walkers. All money raised will go to Ballyduff Community Centre Redevelopment fund and Focus Ireland. Timings will be kindly taken care of by the West Waterord Athletic Club and refreshments will be served after the race in the community centre. Prizegiving will also take place in the community centre with lots of prizes up for grabs. This is always a wonderful community event in memory of a lady who not only was a great athlete herself but also a true community spirited person who always put others needs in front of her own. Come along and join in the fun.

All Ireland Final

A reminder that Waterfords U16 lady footballers will take on Longford in the All Ireland final on Wednesday July 24th at 7pm in St. Brendans Park, Birr, Co. Offaly. We wish the very best of luck to all the girls, their coaches and background team with a special mention to their mentor Fiona Crotty Laffan. We will be cheering you all on

Tractor Run, Keep up the Training and All Ireland Awaits

New Appointment.

We send our warmest congratulations to Fr. Richard O Halloran who has been appointed as Parish Priest of Ballyduff/Portlaw. This is a just reward for Fr. Richard who gives such committment and dedication to the people of the parish. This is not to say that he has pushed Fr. Mick out of his position, Fr. Mick is absolutely thrilled to have gotten his wish to become an AP (assissting priest) which will mean he will still be saying masses etc but can take a step back from the book work and running of the parish. He and Fr. Richard have built up a very good working relaionship and friendship so Fr. Mick is happy to hand over the reins and take a back seat. Both priests will remain living in their present houses and we wish them both every happiness. We are very thankful that we get to keep them both and look forward to their continued ministery.

Tractor Run.

The countdown is on to the annual Kilmeaden Vintage Tractor Club’s tractor run in aid of The Solas Centre. These fine vehicles are getting their final touches, crankshafts are being oiled up, bumpers polished and the overalls and peaked hats are being freshly washed. At 1pm on Sunday July 21st this fine selection of vehicles will take off from Haughtons and travel a lovely scenic route around the Kilmeaden area. On their return the barbeque will be fired up and Gerry and Margaret have promised to have a few cold bottles of lemonade ready for the thirsty travellers. If you feel a bit bloated after the burgers and lemonade then don’t worry as John O Shea will be on hand to get you dancing the night away. What a great way to spend your Sunday with great entertainment, chats and laughs. This is always a wonderful day with a great atmosphere from start to finish. The extra added bonus is of course that you are supporting a fabulous charity. The Solas Centre give unbelievable support to both patients and their families. Please come along and support this very worthy event.

Newcastle Mass.

The annual graveyard mass at the old cemetery in Newcastle will take place on Wednesday July 24th at 7.30pm. Buried in this graveyard are many of our ancestors many in unmarked graves. It is important that we remember these people who played such a huge part in our history. Of course all these people would have walked to mass each week and so in remembrance of them a faith walk will leave Ballyduff Church at 6.30pm and will make its way to Newcastle in time for mass. The chalice which will be used on the night is over 100 years old and would have been used at the Newcastle masses.

Thinking Caps.

The Juvenile section of our local GAA club will host a table quiz on Friday July 26th at 8pm in The Sweep Bar and Restaurant.The entry fee is €20 for a table of 4 and Quizmaster on the night will be Gavin Whelan. All are welcome to come along and join the fun. You still have a bit of time to head to the library and study but remember to choose your team carefully cause you dont want someone saying the capital of France is F.

Recent Deaths.

We extend our deepest sympathy to Al Bowman, Stonehouse on the recent death of his sister Joan Flynn of Mount Sion Avenue. Joans funeral mass took place in Ballybricken and she was laid to rest in St. Otterans cemetery. May she rest in peace.

We also send our sympathy to Paul Millea, Newtown on the death of his uncle Seamus Flynn who lived in Mallow. Seamus was a retired Garda and his funeral mass took place in the Church of the Ressurection, Mallow followed by cremation to the Island Crematorium, Ringaskiddy. Ar Dheis De Go Raibh Se

Our sympathies go to the family and friends of Michael(Mixie) O Brien of Raheen. Michael was a native of Mooncoin but has lived this side of the river for many a year. His funeral mass took place in the Church of he Sacred Heart, Dunhill with burial in the adjoining graveyard. May he rest in peace.

Keep up the Training.

The Liz(Eilis) Hayes Memorial Fun Run/Walk will take place on Friday August 9th leaving from Ballyduff Lower Village and travelling 5 miles around the beautiful scenic Knockaderry Lake.It is hard to believe that this is the 8th year of this event and we are very grateful to se2 who have once again come on as sponsors.

Entry is €10 and €5 for those wishing to walk the route. All money raised goes to the Ballyduff Community Centre and Focus Ireland. There will be cash prizes for the first three males and females home along with the first over 40’s and 50’s males/females. The frst junior home will also receive a prize and there will be lots of spot prizes sponsored by local businesses along the way also. Come along and join in this wonderful atmosphere.

All Ireland Awaits

Waterfords U16 lady footballers headed to Offaly on Wednesday July 10th to take on the Connacht champions Roscommon in the U16 All Ireland semi final. Twelve clubs from across Waterford are represented on this panel . One of their mentors is our own Fiona Crotty Laffan who herself is an All Ireland winner in ladies football. Fiona praises these girls for their tremendous work ethic and dedication to their sport. They have a great team of people around them and when talking to Fiona she was very hopeful that this group of girls would make it through to the final. Well that’s exactly what they did. The girls were one point down heading in at half time but came back out on a mission to win. Even when they were reduced down to 14 after their mid fielder was sin binned for 10 minutes they kept fighting and were rewarded with two goals ,one from Hayley Phelan from a free on the 21 yard line and Maeve Sheridan sent in another goal during injury time and secured their place in the final. The final scoreline was Roscommon 1-11 Waterford 5-06.

This is a fabulous achievement for these girls and now look forward to their All Ireland meeting with Athlone on Wednesday July 24th. If at all possible I urge you to get out and support these girls. Best of luck to all the girls and Fiona and all the fabulous support team they have around them

Graveyard Mass, Wedding Bells and Pretty little Girl

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 11, 20, 22 and 24 and there was no winner of the jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Michelle Dunphy, Eleanor O Brien and Miriam Daly. The next draw will take place on July 14th and the fantastic jackpot of €12,500 will be up for grabs.

Tickets cost just €2 each or 3 for €5 and are on sale from all committee members and will be on sale outside Centra on Saturday July 13th. The biggest job you have to do is to choose those four lucky numbers and then decide how you will spend your winnings.

More Success

Congratulations to Kilmeaden man Matteo Mary who has been selected to represent the Irish School Athletic Association Team at the upcoming SIAB Track and Field Championships which will take place on Saturday July 20th in Swansea, Wales. Matteo will compete in the 1500m representing his school, St. Declans Community College, Kilmacthomas.

Matteo has always given great committment and dedication to his sport and so it wonderful to see it being rewarded. We will all be wishing Matteo the very best as he heads for Wales and hope that he enjoys the experience.

Graveyard Mass

We were certainly blessed with glorious weather for our annual graveyard mass in Ballyduf last Wednesday. Beautiful rays of sunshine beamed down on our extremely well kept graveyard. During the mass in fact Fr. O Byrne asked those attending to give a round of applause to the wonderful Michael Junior Power who looks after the graveyard grounds and keeps them in such fine order. Junior always puts 110% into every job he takes on and carries out his work with a warm hello for everyone and a song to accompany the whistling birds. Also during his sermon Fr. Mick reminded people to bring home old flowers and wreaths in a rubbish bag as there are no dumping facilities in the graveyard.

Concelebrating mass with Fr. Mick was our very own Fr. John Harris and it was lovely to have him on home ground for the evening. The mass was beautiful and was enhanced greatly by the singing from St. Nicholas church choir.

Once mass was over it was back to the community centre for some tea and light refreshments. I would personally like to thank all those who dropped in some home baking and donated cakes, biscuits etc. A big thank you to all who helped me serve and wash up also. I am very grateful to Christine, Aisling, Siobhan, Ava and Adam. This is always a lovely evening and nice for people to meet up after mass for a cuppa and a chat.

A Real Character

There was only one heading I could have chosen when writing about this gentleman as he was most definetely a real character. Last week we all mourned the loss of Jack(Jackie) Connolly from Knockaderry. Jackies family were employed by Waterford County Council as caretakers of Knockaderry Lake. He met the love of his life Joanie and they married in 1954. They lived and raised their children by the scenic Knockaderry Lake and Jackie cared for the lake with great pride and care just as his father and grandfather had done before him.

My first meetings with Jackie were in my childhood years when he would call to my own father regularly and even though I was young I could spot a rogue and knew I had met a messer and a joker. Following on a few years I spent many a happy time when I worked in the shop and Post Office laughing and joking with the “bold” Jackie as I called him. He had a rogues eye and one of the most contagious laughs you’ll ever hear.

Following the death of his beloved Joanie he moved to Ballyvalican and was very happy sharing a home with Elizabeth and her family. Jackie loved his family dearly and was always on hand to help with anything they needed. He was most certainly a peoples person loving a chat and a laugh with all he met. He also loved a good game of cards and of course never cheated!! He told me that himself so it must be true !! His other great loves were his dogs who were always his companion so I thought it was very fitting on the morning of his funeral mass that a little terrier came into the church for a little walk around, he also joined us down in the graveyard for the burial.If that’s not a sign I don’t know what is.

Our deepest sympathy to Jackies daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren, brothers, sisters and all his family and many friends. We pray that Jackie is now reunited with his beloved Joanie and will enjoy the peace and happiness of Gods heavenly kingdom. Ar Dheis De Go Raibh Se

Tractor Run.

The Kilmeaden Vintage Tractor Club will host their annual tractor run on Sunday July 21st. The run will leave from Haughtons at 1pm and will head out and about through our beautiful scenic surroundings. This is always a great day out with some fine machines on show. There is always a brilliant atmosphere and something for all ages to enjoy. On returning back to Haughtons, Gerry and Margaret will have the barbeque fired up and a few cold lemonades on ice. Of course if that wasn’t spoiling you enough, our very own DJ supreme John O Shea will be on hand to have you up and dancing round your Massey. Of course all money raised on the day goes to The Solas Centre in Waterford. Nobody reading this needs me to tell you about the wonderful work this charity not only for patients but for their whole family. Buckets will be passed around on the day and I ask that you be as generous as possible. If you would like any further information about the Tractor Run please contact Pat on 087-2216589.

 

Newcastle Mass

The annual cemetery mass in the old graveyard in Newcastle will take place on Wednesday July 24th at 7.30pm. Many of our ancestors are buried in Newcastle and many in unmarked graves. In honour of our ancestors whose only way to get to mass was to walk, a faith walk will leave at 6.30pm from Ballyduff and walk to Newcastle cemetery. All are welcome to join in.

 

Wedding Bells
I was thrilled and delighted this week to hear of the engagement of Ciara Larkin, Powersknock to the love of her life Kevin Burns. Kevin is of course is very well known in sporting circles but this is most definetely the match of his life and he is a winner from the very beginning. This lovely couple have been dating for 8 years and it was on this 8th anniversary that Kevin decided to pop the all important question and thankfully she said yes.

This happy couple really are a match made in heaven and we wish them both all the happiness in the world.

Memorial Run/Walk

The 8th annual Liz (Eilis) Hayes Memorial Fun Run/Walk will take place on Friday August 9th. Entry to this event is €10 for the race and €5 for the walkers. This 5 mile race takes off from Ballyduff Community Centre and takes you around the stunning Knockaderry Lake. There are prizes for the first three males and females and also prizes for the first over 40 and over 50 male and female and a prize for the first junior.

There is always a great atmosphere at this event and all are welcome to join in. Walkers will head off at 6.45pm while the runners will go at 7.30pm. All money raised will go to the Ballyduff Community Centre Redevelopment fund and Focus Ireland. The good people from the West Waterford Athletics club will once again take care of the timings etc. All are welcome to come along and join in the fun and I will have more details in the coming weeks so stay tuned.

Pretty Little Girl
We send warm congratulations to Gavin and Nicola O Rourke, Ballygarron on the recent birth of their beautiful daughter Emma. Emma is a very lucky girl to have big brother Sean and big sisters Lexi and Ciara ready to teach her the ways of the world. We wish this happy little family the very best of health and happiness.

Kilmeaden Beauty, Fantastic Achievement and Graduation Day

Kilmeaden Beauty

Heartiest congratulations to Kilmeadens own Katie Keogh who last week won the title of Miss Waterford. Katie was persuaded to enter the competition as a representative of Coach House Coffee in Kilmacthomas and did so thinking it would be good fun and a good experience. She was in shock when she was announced as the overall winner. I have known Katie for a number of years and to me she radiates beauty both inside and out.I know her parents and brothers and sisters are very proud of her and of course her gorgeous niece Erica will be able to give lots of tips for hair and make up as I met her the other day sporting some great blue hair extensions. We wish Katie the very best for the future and hope that she enjoys the whole experience and adventure.

Graveyard Mass.

Our annual graveyard mass in Ballyduff cemetery will take place on Wednesday July 3rd at 7.30pm. This always draws a large crowd and we ask you to please let those outside the parish who have relatives or friends buried here know about the mass. If you are visiting your loved ones grave in the coming days to perhaps freshen up flowers etc please bring along a bin bag or box with you so you can take home any rotten flowers, wreaths etc. We do not have bins at our graveyard and work hard to keep it looking clean and tidy.

Tractor Run.

Our local Kilmeaden Vintage Tractor Club are pleased to announce that they will hold their annual tractor run on Sunday July 21st. This is always one of favourite days out in the year and it always draws a crowd. The run will leave from Haughtons at 1pm and will then follow a beautiful scenic route. Following their arrival back two Haughtons, the barbeque will be on the go and there will be lots of chat going and maybe a lemonade or two. All proceeds every year goes to The Solas Centre and we are all aware of the wonderful work they do every day of the year. If you would like any other information about the run please call 087-2216589.

Running Shoes.

A big well done to all from our locality who took part in Viking Marathon, half marathon and quarter marathon last weekend. We also had locals who headed off to Cork to take part in the Iron Man. Well done also to my own husband Brian and his teamates from The Village Wheelerswho took part in The Tour of the Burren cycle.

 

Fantastic Achievement!

A big well done to local boy Charlie Laffan who travelled to Bratislava last week to take part in the WUKF World Karate championships. Charlie is a member of the Pat Rockett Karate and Kickboxing academy and he competed brilliantly in his age group. There were 38 competitors n his group and Charlie emerged as 5th in the world in his group. This really is a fantastic achievement at the tender age of just 12 and we congratulate Charlie.

The Pat Rockett academy returmed home with 9 Gold,2 Silver and 15 bronze World medals which is just fantastic. Well done again Charlie we are all so proud of you.

GAA News.
In the Intermediate hurling championship Ballyduff had a good win over St. Saviours on a scoreline of 2-24 to 2-10. There was a great display of hurling with some fantastic scores. A big thank you to all the supporters who cheered them on . They remain unbeaten at this stage.

It has been a busy time in the Juvenile Section with the U8’s playing a couple of blitz competitions and have done very well and have had lots of fun. The U11’s continue to battle through a difficult league. The U10 hurlers were defeated by Portlaw but were missing some players. The U14 girls put in a stellar performance and narrowly missed out on the County Final.

There was a great day in Ballyduff N.S last Wednesday with a visit from the great Kevin Moran. Kevin dropped into present the victorious U11 hurlers with their medals and also to the boys and girls who were winners and runners up in the lunchtime league. The club would like to acknowledge the work put in during the year by Mr. Stapleton, Mr. Carey and Ms. Sinnott and Ms. Power for facilitating this. The relationship between the club and school is very strong and that can only benefit the school, club and kids. Mr. Carey took lots of photos so there will be plenty available to have a look at.

Bundle of Joy

We send our warmest congratulations to Ballyduff N.S teacher Karen Power and her husband John Paul Browne on the recent birth of their beautiful baby daughter Mia. We welcome Mia into the world and look forward to meeting her. We wish the happy little family every happiness for the future.

Graduation Day

As I write these notes I am just home from the 6th class graduation mass and celebration. It was a very emotional night and a wonderful night of memories. My own son Adam was one of the students graduating and it is my own time to finish with primary school.

The night began with a beautiful mass celebrated by Fr. O Byrne and each of the students played a part in the mass. The St. Nicholas’s church choir joined the students and sang beautifully throughout the mass. Their principal Ms. Power spoke to the students and congratulated them on being such a great class and such a good example to the younger students. Each student was presented with a lovely certificate and then it was back to their school hall to enjoy some lovely refreshments thanks to the parents and the wonderful Parents Council. A big thank you to all who baked and donated cakes and a special thank you to Martina in Milestone Coffee House who donated some lovely cakes. The students then received a new red hoodie with their fellow classmates names on them and I must say they looked fantastic. Mr. Carey really got the emotions going when he showed a video collection of photos from the last 8 years. It really was a wonderful night for a great bunch of kids. A big thank to Mr. Carey who made their last year so special and to all the school staff who have made their time in primary school comfortable and hassle free. As a former pupil of Ballyduff NS I have always said that we are very lucky to have such a brilliant school with lots of opportunities and great facilities. It has been an honour to send my two children to Ballyduff NS and I hope that all the students of 2018/2019 go on to have more wonderful years in secondary school. Thank you Ballyduff NS for all the memories and friendship and for giving our children the best possible start in life.

Our Sympathies, Tractor Run and Pink for Cancer Research

Bridge News.

The Ballyduff/Portlaw bridge club played their latest game on Monday June 17th and the results were:
1st: Nano Fitzgerald and Kate Hayes.

2nd: Theresa Phelan and Ann Marie Brown.

3rd: Elizabeth Phelan and Iris Graham.

4th: Joan Hartrey and Patsy Roche.

GAA Lotto.
The numbers drawn in the latest GAA lotto draw were 7, 12, 26 and 27. There was no winner of the jackpot but the three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Alice O Brien, Eoin Cummins and Catriona Dunphy. The next draw will take place on Sunday June 30th and there will be a fantastic jackpot of €12,500 up for grabs. Tickets cost just €2 each or 3 for €5 and are available from all committee members and will also be on sale at Centra on Saturday June 29th. All is left for you to do now is to choose those four lucky numbers and then plan your spending spree.

Our Sympathies.

We extend our sympathies to Michael Connolly of Cullinagh on the recent death of his brother Maurice. Maurice was of course a native of this parish but died at his home in Foulksmills, Co. Wexford. He was a gifted author and playwright and also spent some years as an auctioneer with his brother Michael. We send our condolences to all the Connolly family on their sad loss.

We also send our heartfelt sympathies to Jenny Doyle, Ballyduff West on the recent death of her mother Anna Hennessy. Anna lived in Borris, Co. Carlow and I can say that I had the great pleasure of meeting her many times. I can honestly say that she was without doubt a real lady who was always happy to meet you and have a chat and absolutely adored her family. Her and her husband Peter were constant companions and made many visits to Ballyduff West. We pray that Anna now enjoys the peace of heaven and that her husband Peter, children Jenny and Austin, son in law Noel and beloved grandchildren Hannah and Finn will find comfort in their memories. May her sweet gentle soul rest in peace.

Mass Bookings

Anniversary mass bookings for the months of July, August and September have now been taken but don’t worry there are still dates available. If you would like to book a mass for a loved one during those months please contact myself Linda Spillane on 087-9838392 and I will try to accomodate you.

Tractor Run.

The date for the popular annual tractor run hosted by Kilmeaden Vintage Tractor has been announced. Mark your diary for Sunday July 21st when at 1pm the convoy of tractors will leave Haughtons and take on a scenic route around the area. This is always a much looked forward to event and is always a great day out. Following the run its back to Haughtons for a tasty barbeque and a few lemonades. All of the proceeds from this day goes to The Solas Centre so please support by coming along and enjoying a great event. I will be reminding you of this date in the coming weeks so stay tuned for more details. In the meantime if you want any further information please contact Pat on 087-2216589.

New Wheels

We send warm congratulations to Mrs. Carmel Nugent, Matthews Cross who recently won a Toyota Yaris Hybrid in the St.Dominics Credit Union monthly members car draw. We wish Carmel the very best and congratulate her on this fantastic win.

 

Little Princess.

Heartiest congratulations to Mark Scannell and Aoife Kearns on the recent birth of their beautiful baby girl. Baby Cara arrived into the world happy and healthy and ready for action and that she better be as big sister Erina is ready and willing to show her new sister just how to get on in this world. This happy couple are truly blessed with two beautiful girls and we wish the happy little family a lifetime of health and happiness.

 

Pink For Cancer Research

Silage season is well and truly underway and while driving around different parts of the county I am delighted to see so many fields full of beautifully wrapped pink bales. For the fifth year Glanbia Agribusiness have joined with Breast Cancer Ireland to raise funds for this very worthy charity. For every single roll of limited edition pink Mastercrop Agristretch purchased across all Glanbia Agribusiness and Glanbia Countrylife branches a donation will be made to Breast Cancer Ireland.

It is heartwarming to see so many farmers embracing this worthy cause and I was delighted this week to see my good neighbour and friend Michael Power pledging his support by wrapping his bales in pink. Hopefully the good people in the papers have included a photo of these bales that I have sent in with these notes. Well done to Michael and the Power family who are always such great supporters of charity and thank you on behalf of all who benefit from the services of this charity.

Graveyard Mass.

The annual graveyard mass in Ballyduff will take place on Wednesday July 3rd at 7.30pm. This is always very well attended so please spread the word to all those who may have friends or relatives buried in our graveyard. We are very proud of the beautiful way our graveyard is kept and so we ask that if you are replacing flowers etc on your loved ones grave please bring a bag for the old flowers and rubbish as we do not have any bins on site.

Following the mass we will have a cuppa and some light refreshments in the community centre. If you would like to offer some homebaking or bought items we would be very grateful. You can let me know or I will be in the hall on the night of the mass from 6.30pm.

GAA News.

A big well done to all the LGFA U8 girls who competed in a football blitz and came out as winners in all their matches. With some great performances a great mornings fun was had by all.

The U14 ladies had a great win over Ballysaggart which brought them through to the County Final. Hopefully I will have some good news about that next week.

The U8 hurlers hosted a blitz last week with some great individual performances on display. A big thank you to the three young whistlers who helped out on the night, Cathal, Keith and Aaron and also to the coaches for all the time and effort they put in.

The club would like to thank everyone who came along to their funday which incorporated the Tom Cheasty Cup, Derek Ryan Memorial Cup and official opening of the clubs ball wall. The new ball wall is dedicated to the late great Ollie Harris , a man who gave his life and soul to the club. The Ballyduff U11’s took the Tom Cheasty Cup defeating Carrigeen and Modeligo captured the Derek Ryan memorial cup defeating the Ballyduff intermediates. The club would like to thank everyone who attended and all those who brought food and helped out. A special word of thanks to the Cheasty, Ryan and Harris families without whom the day would not have been possible.

In the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore in the southeast of Ireland, Ballyduff and Kilmeaden are about 23 miles from Dungarvan and 5 miles from Waterford.