All posts by Christine Tubbritt

Bridge News, Parent and Toddler and Needles at the Ready

Bridge News

The Ballyduff/Portlaw bridge club played their latest game on Monday October 1st and the results were:
1st: Ann and William Tobin.

2nd: Breda Cowman and Mary Kennedy.

3rd: Sean Hennessy and Nano Fitzgerald.

4th: Peggy Murphy and John Fitzpatrick.

5th: Patsy Roche and Kathleen Collins.


Station Masses.

The Autumn station masses are begining and the first of the masses will take place on Thursday October 11th in Ballyduff church at 7.30pm and it will be the mass for the areas of Carrickphilip, Knockaderry, Carriganure, Ballygarron, Lisahane, Ardeenlone and Shanbally. On Friday October 12th the mass for Amberhill, Raheen, Powersknock, Blacknock, Carrigadustra and Fan Glas will be in the church at 7.30pm. The mass for Ballyduff Village, Ballyduff Hill, Ballyduff West, Ross, Kildermody, Kilmagemogue, Newtown, Cullinagh and Gortaclode will be held in Ballyduff Church at 7.30pm on Tuesday October 16th and on Friday October 19th the mass for Matthews Cross, Ballyduff East and Adamstown will be held in the home of Brian and Linda Spillane at 8pm.


Needles At The Ready.

Our local knitting and crochet group meet every Tuesday morning at 10am in Ballyduff Community Centre. This group is open to people of all levels so if you are interested in a cuppa and a chat while trying out some new knitting and crochet skills then pop in and join in the fun. If you would like some more information about the group you can contact Jeni on 086 8163101.


Parent & Toddler Group

Our local Parent and Toddler group meet on Friday mornings in Ballyduff Community Centre from 9.30am to 11.30am. This is an ideal opportunity for parents to meet up and have a chat over a cuppa while the children can play and make new friends. It is a lovely way for parents to get to know new friends especially those who are new to the area.


Notes Time

If you would like me to include an item in these notes for you please contact me Linda Spillane on 087 9838392 or drop me an email on spillanelinda2018@gmail.com. You are also welcome to drop something off at the house or stop me for a chat while I am out and about.

Family Tree Research, Autumn Stations and Autumn Wedding

Bridge News.

The Ballyduff/Portlaw bridge club played their latest game on Monday September 24th and the results were as follows:

1st: Geraldine McMahon and Nano Fitzgerald.

2nd: Breda Murphy and John Fitzpatrick.

3rd: Bridget Ahearne and Deirdre Phelan.

4th: Kate Hayes and Sean Hennessy.


GAA Lotto.

The numbers draw in the latest lotto draw were 6, 8, 9 and 26 and there was no winner of the jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were James Cuddihy, Margaret Prangnell and Martin Murray. The next draw will take place on Sunday October 7th and will have a jackpot of €11,900. Tickets cost just €2 or 3 for €5 and are available from all committee members and will also be on sale at Centra on Saturday October 6th. Choose those four numbers carefully and you could be winning that fantastic jackpot.

 


Family Tree Research.

Fr. O Byrne often receives emails from people looking to research into their family history from many years back. More recent baptism and marriage records are available through the parish but for older records you need to contact Waterford Heritage Services at Jenkins Lane, Waterford. The staff there will research your family tree for a small fee. The contact number for the office is 051 876123.


Autumn Stations.

It is that time of year already when the annual Autumn stations begin. On Thursday October 11th the mass for Carrickphilip, Knockaderry, Carriganure, Ballygarron, Lisahane, Ardeenlone and Shanbally will take place in the church at 7.30pm.

The mass for Amberhill, Raheen, Powersknock, Blacknock, Carrigadustra and Fan Glas will be in the church on Friday October 12th at 7.30pm.

On Tuesday October 16th at 7.30pm the mass for Ballyduff Hill, Ballyduff Village, Ballyduff West, Ross Kildermody, Kilmagemogue, Newtown, Cullinagh and Gotaclode will be held in the church.

Friday October 19th it is the turn of Matthews Cross, Ballyduff East and Adamstown in the home of Brian and Linda Spillane at 8pm.

On Tuesday October 23rd at 8pm the mass for Stonehouse, Whelansbridge and Lacka Road will take place in the home of Margaret and Seamus Nolan.

This is a full list of the station masses so you can check the date of your mass but don’t worry I will be reminding you each week so keep an eye out.

 


Autumn Wedding

I was honoured to have been invited along to the recent wedding of local lady Stephaine Power and her Westmeath fiance Ronan Hogan. Following a couple of miserable days the sun shone on a beautiful Autumnal Friday as this lovely couple got ready to recite their vows before friends and family. Many years ago Stephaine joined the church choir that I was running at the time as a shy, soft spoken little girl with the voice of an angel and after some time she treated me and many of you to some beautiful performances in masses and many talent competitions. This is why I felt such great pride as I watched this shy little girl walk up the aisle on the arm of her very proud father as the confident, beautiful young lady she has become.

The guests at the wedding are still talking about the wedding ceremony which is one I will not forget for a long time. It was full of joy, happiness and hope with music from the Ballyduff Church choir and the St.Pauls Gospel choir and solos from Eamonn O Leary, Sandra O Keeffe and there were some teary eyes(especially mine) when chief bridesmaid Caroline delivered a beautiful rendition of “Broken Road” especially for her sister and new brother in law. The happy couple captured the memories of their special day with some fantastic photos at the Waterford Suir Valley Railway. It was then on to The Woodlands for a gorgeous meal and then dancing to the sounds of Broadstreet followed by our very own DJ supreme the great John O Shea.

It was an absolutely brilliant day from start to finish and one I won’t forget for a long time. I genuinely wish Stephaine and Ronan the very best that life has to offer and hope that they enjoy sunshine and happiness throughout their married life.

 


Church News.

A reminder that adoration of the blessed sacrament continues in the church every Tuesday from 12 noon to 5pm and you are welcome to call in for a few minutes during any part of the day.

A date to mark in your diary is May 11th 2019 which will be First Holy Communion Day here in our parish.

We do not have Confirmation in this side of the parish this year but Confirmation Day in Portlaw will be on Thursday May 30th

Engagement Celebrations, Waterford Call and Music Maestro

Bridge News.

The Ballyduff/Portlaw bridge club played their latest bridge game on Monday September 17th. The results of the game are as follows:

1st: Peggy Murphy and Elizabeth Mooney.

2nd: Mary Shanahan and Pauline Fanning.

3rd: Ann Marie Brown and Breda Kirwan.

4th: Monica Sullivan and Breda Murphy.

 


Terry Butler Cup.

At Ballyduff soccer pitch recently Ballyduff took on Portlaw in a bid to retain The Terry Butler Cup. A huge well done to both teams who treated the spectators to a very entertaining game. Ballyduff led at half time with three goals by John Phelan, Dylan Murphy and Shane Dalton but Portlaw never gave up and scored two goals in the second half. At the final whistle Ballyduff emerged as winners and were delighted to retain the cup. Captain Alan Phelan accepted the cup from Darren Butler and Sam Masterson was named Man of the Match. Congratulations to Ballyduff and a big thank you to Portlaw for such a great game.

 


Engagement Celebrations.

We send our warmest congratulations to Joyce Foley from Ballyduff West on her recent engagement to Jason Alexander. Jason chose their holiday away as the perfect time to pop the question and I know all the family back home were delighted to hear the news. We wish the happy couple every best wish for the future and hope that they enjoy their wedding preparations. I’m sure their cute little son Charlie will have a few ideas.


Booking of Masses

We have taken the bookings for anniversary masses for the months of October, November and December. If you missed out on the bookings and would like to book a mass for a loved one during these months please contact Linda Spillane on 087 9838392 to book your mass.


Waterford Call

Huge congratulations to Scott Searson, Gortaclode who has been named as Goalkeeper for the Waterford U15 soccer team. Scott has been dedicated and committed to his sport for many years so this is a just reward for his hard work. I know his parents Shay and Edel and sister Amber are extremely proud of him and I’m sure that there is a very proud grandad in Ferrybank as the great Jimmy Searson sees his grandson carry on the Searson legacy.


Music Maestro

Local BA Honours Music student Jack Kennedy goes from strength to strength with his musical career. Jack has been selected to perform as part of the Feis Ceoil young platform series in the National Concert Hall. Jack is the current Feis Cheoil senior classical guitar winner and this is a fantastic and well deserved opportunity for Jack. We wish him the very best in what promises to be an exciting future.

 


GAA News

Unfortunately our intermediate team bowed out in the semi final to Clonea. What a great year they have had though treating us to some great games and bags of mixed emotions. A huge thank you to all the team and the management who put in such a huge effort and committment. A big thank you also to the fabulous supporters for chering them on at very game.

In our nursery and academy section our U7 and U8 teams were in action recently having some great games and fun. They are really coming on in leaps and bounds thanks to their great coaches.

A big well done to the 50 children and parents from the academy section who completed a litter pick on Saturday in Kilmeaden. The place looked spick and span after their work. Thank you to all who helped and best of luck to the Tidy Towns committee who do such wonderful work all year round, the academy hope to join them again sometime.

Parent and Toddler, Birthday Girls and Zumba Time

Golden Days.

We send our warmest congratulations and best wishes to Ballyduff couple Jim and Eleanor O Brien who recently celebrated their Golden wedding anniversary. Jim and Eleanor celebrated their day surrounded by their children and grandchildren. We wish the happy couple many more years of wedded bliss in their beautiful home in the heart of the village.

 


Junior Cert Results

Huge congratulations to all the young men and women in our community who received their Junior Cert results during the week. We hope that they are all proud of themselves and that they enjoyed the celebrations.


Bridge News

The Ballyduff/Portlaw bridge club played their latest game on Monday September 10th and the results were:

1st: Elizabeth Mooney and Michael O Donovan.

2nd: Patsy Roche and Peggy Murphy.

3rd: Eileen Kirwan and Breda Cowman.

4th: Anna Harney and Anna Ryan.

 


GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 13, 21, 22 and 28 and there was no jackpot winner. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were John Cunningham, Vincent Behan and Meabh Ni Fhuarthain. The next draw will take place on September 23rd and will have a jackpot of €11,750 up for grabs.

Tickets cost just €2 each or 3 for €5 and are available from all committee members and will be on sale outside Centra on Saturday September 22nd. Choose those 4 numbers carefully and you could be the lucky winner.

 


Back To School

We wish all the students and staff of Ballyduff NS a warm welcome back to school and hope that they all enjoy a happy and safe year. We of course welcome two new members of staff to the school. Miss Tyrrell joins as the new Senior Infants teacher and Mrs Kavanagh joins the Senior Special Class.

Exciting plans are afoot in the school for a new classroom. Plans have been approved by the Department of Education and it is now at the planning stages.


Parent and Toddler Group

Our local Parent and Toddler group have returned to their activities after the Summer break. The group meet every Friday morning in Ballyduff Community centre at 10am till 12 noon. There is always a warm welcome waiting for any new members wishing to come along. There is no committment needed you can pop along any time that suits you.

This is a great way for both parents and children to get to know others. The children enjoy some play and activities in a safe and happy environment while the parents can have a nice relaxing cuppa and a chat. Why not drop in and join in the fun.


Coffee Morning.

The annual Hospice coffee mornings will take place around the country next week and we here in our area will have our chance to support this wonderful charity, on Thursday September 20th, O Donnachas will host a coffee morning from 9.30am to 12 noon. This is always a lovely morning with warm cuppas, delicious scones and lovely conversation. Come along and join in this nice relaxing morning while supporting a fantastic charity.


Birthday Girls.

Two local ladies celebrated their 21st birthdays last week. Aisling Power, Ballyduff East and Amy O Leary, Kilmagemogue both turned 21 within days of each other and we wish both ladies a very happy birthday. We hope that they both enjoyed their celebrations and wish them every best wish for their future.

 


Home To Rome
Following Arthur and Jordan Curry’s triumphant return home from their “Home To Rome” charity cycle, the boys were given a night of celebration in O Donnachas on Saturday September 8th. The crowd enjoyed the live music and finger food while they supported the raffle and auction. All money raised on the night went to the Waterford Hospice who of course as we all know provide wonderful support to many patients and their families every day.

Arthur spoke on the night and thanked everyone sincerely for all the support and encouragement which they received before, during and after the trip. He told of the hard conditions they faced at times, the worries and pains and the pure and honest feelings of achievement and contentment as they reached their destination and they stood in the place that their mother and grandmother had wished to travel to. They most definetly felt her presence there with them and throughout the journey and know that she pushed them on when they felt like giving up.

This was a lovely way to round off their trip and a big well done to Michelle and Seamus Dunphy for hosting the night and a thank you to all who attended.

 


Yoga Time

If you are thinking about taking up some yoga to help you relax and unwind, there are a choice of times and venues coming up for you. Classes will begin on Monday October 8th in Cheshire Homes at 11am and in “Woodside”, Whitfield at 6.30pm. If you would like some more information please contact 086 2427565.

 


Zumba Time

Zumba with Lada has begun in Ballyduff Community Centre. For those aged 7 years to 12 years classes take place on Wednesday evenings from 4pm to 4.50pm and for those aged 12 years to 110 years its Wednesday nights from 7pm to 7.50pm. If you would like some more information please contact Lada on 089 4929672.

 


Our Sympathies

We extend our deepest sympathies to Christine Murphy, Powersknock on the death of her beloved father Mr. Michael Barrett. Michael resided in Analeentha, Mourneabbey, Co. Cork and although I didnt have the pleasure of knowing him, I know from the way Christine spoke of him that he was a man of great character and strength and was deeply admired by all his family and friends. We pray that he now enjoys the peace of heaven and that his gentle soul may rest in peace.

What a Success, Great White Motor Run and Get Moving

Bridge News.

The Ballyduff/Portlaw bridge club played their latest game of bridge on Monday September 3rd. The results were as follows:

1st: Kathleen Collins and Patsy Roche.

2nd: Breda Cowman and Mary Kennedy.

3rd: Ann Marie Brown and Mary Prendergast.

4th: Ann Cox and Margaret White.

5th: Geraldine McMahon and Joan Hartley.


What A Success.

On Sunday July 22nd the Kilmeaden Vintage Tractor club held their annual tractor run in aid of the Solas Cancer Support Centre. This was a great day from start to finish and a very enjoyable day was had by all. I was present recently at Haughtons when the group presented the cheque to representatives from The Solas Centre. A fantastic amount of €5,906.72 was raised and the group are very grateful to everyone who contributed to the fund and took part in the fun on the day. May I also say a big well done to the organisers who always put such a huge effort into this event and make sure that everyone has a wonderful day.


Needles To The Ready.

Our local knitting and crochet group will return to their group on Tuesday September 18th at 10am and are inviting you all to come along and join them. No experience is needed as all levels are welcome. If you would like some more information please contact Jeni on 086 8163101. If you fancy some nice company, nice chat while knitting or crocheting some beautiful items give Jeni a call and she will fill you in on all the details.


Great White Motor Run.

On Sunday September 16th the Airport Business Park will be awash with white vehicles. This unique event is being run in aid of the fantastic charity Touching Hearts and lots of fun and laughter is guaranteed. Registration will begin at 12 noon with an entrance fee of €20 per vehicle. The run will begin at 2pm. All entrants will also be entered into a draw for an amazing helicopter flight for two. There will also be a raffle for some brilliant prizes and a delicious barbeque.

A added attraction for the young children coming along to the event is a small vehicle run in the business park before the main event. They are asked to bring along their bikes, trikes, tractors, scooters or any vehicle with wheels and join in the spirit and fun of the day.

This is a unique and special event in aid of a great charity and promises to be a day to remember so get your vehicle sorted or come along as a spectator and join in the fun.

 


Soccer Club News.

Ballyduff AFC have asked me to say a big thank you to Donal Hickson of Centra Kilmeaden for his sponsorship of a full set of gear for the U14 girls team. His generosity is much appreciated.

The academy section of the club are also back in action. The U5/6’s train on Mondays at 6.30pm and the U7/8’s are on Wednesday at 6.30pm. New players are always welcome so just come along and join in.

 


A Gentleman Supreme

We were all very saddened to hear of the death of a most cherished parishioner Billy Heffernan recently. Billy lived in the very heart of the village, in the shadow of our church which was very important to him. A native of Fethard in Co.Tipperary he never forgot his roots especially when it came to the hurling but was also a great supporter of the Ballyduff and Waterford teams.

Having spent many years as a painter and decorator, he then ran the famous Heffernans shop with his wife Maureen. He kept a beautiful home and an immaculate garden. He showed me on a couple of visits the wonderful array of plants and flowers he had and told me how he loved the days while working in the garden that he would hear the children in the school out playing on their lunch break.

A quiet unassuming gentleman with a friendly smile and a chat for everyone is how I will remember Billy and we shall miss him from our community. Ar Dheis De Go Raibh Se.

 


County Final Awaits

Congratulations to the Ballyduff LGFA U12 team who have made their way into the County Final. Last week they made their way through following a great win over St.Pats with a final score of 3-5 to 2-4. A big thanks must go to all the parents and supporters from both Ballyduff and Portlaw who came out and gave brilliant support to the girls. They now have a chance to rest their voices and build up the stamina to cheer again for the County Final on September 22nd.


Get Moving!
If you are looking for some get fit ideas for the Autumn/Winter months then why not get along to Ballyduff Community Centre on Tuesday and or Thursday nights at 7.15pm and enjoy an hour of kettlebell workouts, cardio workouts and weight and resistance training classes. These workouts are for all levels and if you would like any further information please contact Emmet on 087 6635236.

 


GAA Success

Ballyduff GAA club are certainly enjoying some exciting time with the intermediate hurlers displaying great skill and determination to overcome Ballygunner in the quater final with a final score of 2-20 to 1-16. They now go on to meet Clonea in the semi final in Waish Park on Saturday September 15th at 4pm. This promises to be a great game and it would be great to see a big crowd there to cheer on the team and support them in their quest to reach the final.


Home To Rome.
We are all in awe of the amazing achievement of father and son duo Arthur and Jordan Curry as they arrived home from their cycle from Ballyduff to Rome. They took on this task not only for personal reasons but also to raise some much needed funds for Waterford Hospice. They arrived back to a heroes welcome on Thursday September 6th and their community and friends came out in force to show their admiration and pride. Well done to the guys for taking on such a challenge and showing such selflessness and courage to raise funds and awareness for such a fantastic charity.

Birthday Girl, Community Tidy Up and The Great White Motor Run

Birthday Girl

Warmest birthday wishes go to May McGrath in Ballygarron who recently celebrated turning the young age of 80. May enjoyed her special day with the three fine gentlemen in her life Tom, Paul and Jack. I was delighted to meet May the other day for a chat and to be able to wish her a happy birthday in person. We all hope that she enjoys many more happy birthdays.

 


GAA Lotto.

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 2, 5, 14 and 25 and there was no winner of the jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Helen Power, Brian Power and Bridie Power. The next draw will take place on Monday September 10th and there will be a fantastic jackpot of €11,600 up for grabs. Tickets cost just €2 or three for €5 and are available from all committee members and will also be on sale outside Centra on Saturday September 8th.

Choose those four numbers carefully and you could be lucky enough to get your hands on that jackpot prize.


GAA News.

Lots of games going on in recent days. The U12 girls football semi final against St. Pats will go ahead in Tom Cheasty Park on Wednesday 5th. This team are a credit to their coaches and parents and we wish them the very best of luck.

Our intermediate hurlers have really bounced back from a disappointing start to the season with a great win over Ferrybank securing a place in the quater final against Ballygunner. We wish all the team and mentors the very best of luck and hopefully we will be reporting good news next week.

80 children from the nursery and academy section of the club headed off to Castlecomer Discovery Park recently for a much deserved day out. I am told that the kids enjoyed a brilliant day and that the big kids enjoyed themselves too. It was great for everyone to get a chance to switch off and enjoy lots of fun together.

Work is really moving along at a steady pace on the new ball wall and running and walking track development at the club. The club are very grateful for all the support they have received so far and information leaflets are available from all committee members about how you can offer your support to your clubs future.


Community Tidy Up.

The Nursery and Academy section of our GAA club will join forces with our local tidy towns group on Saturday September 15th at 11am for a litter pick in Kilmeaden Village. This is a great opportunity to show the children the importance of community pride and giving back to your local area. They would like to invite you all to join with them for the clean up. They will meet in the carpark at the back of Centra so come along and join in the fun.


Knitting Group.

Our local knitting and crochet group will resume their meetings on Tuesday September 18th at 10am in Ballyduff Community Centre. This group proved very successful and popular over the past months with lots of knitting and crochet projects as well as many chats and laughs along the way. You do not have to have experience to join up as all levels are welcome. If you would like some more information about the group please contact Jeni on 086 8163101.


Home To Rome.
Arthur and Jordan Curry as I write these notes on Thursday August 30th have reached the city of Florence and hope to arrive at their final destination in Rome by Sunday or Monday. I like many others look forward each night to reading the guys update on facebook. Their detailed description of their travels is so interesting and their courage and determination is to be admired. While taking on this challenge for their own personal reasons the guys are also raising much needed funds for Waterford Hospice.

The guys are due to arrive back to Ballyduff on Thursday evening September 6th. I can’t give you a time but would ask you to stay tuned to the Home To Rome facebook page for updates and please come out that evening to welcome this heroic father and son team. Arthurs wife Karen has promised to keep me informed so if any of you would like to contact me on 087 9838392 I will let you know the latest news and the estimated time of arrival.

To celebrate this epic journey taken by the guys there will be a night to welcome them home in O Donnachas on Saturday September 8th from 8.30pm with live music, finger food and a raffle. Come along and welcome them back and hear all about their journey.

 


The Great White Motor Run

Calling on all of you owners of white vehicles to get yourself along to the Airport Business Park, Waterford on Sunday September 16th for an unique event in aid of a very worthy cause. Registration will take place at 12 noon at a cost of just €20 and the run will start at 2pm sharp. Each entrant will be in with a chance of winning an amazing prize of a helicopter flight for two. The Touching Heart charity will be the beneficiaries on the day and after the event you can enjoy a lovely barbeque and a raffle with some fantastic prizes on offer. So hope to see you there in your white car, van, jeep, motorized wheelbarrow or whatever you have.


Silver Celebrations.

We send warm congratulations and good wishes to Thomas and Breda Fogarty of the the famous Fogartys shop in Portlaw who recently celebrated 25 years of wedded bliss. We hope they enjoy many more happy years of marriage.

 


Your Notes

Lots of clubs and groups are beginning to resume activities now following their Summer break and so you need to let people know what is going on and how to get involved. I have it on good authority that a few people read these notes and they are also uploaded each week on to the parish website so please contact me Linda Spillane and I will be delighted to pass on the information for you. You can phone or text me on 087 9838392 or email me on spillanelinda2017@gmail.com or drop in for a cuppa if you’re passing sure the kettle is always on.

Ready to Help, Knitting and Crochet Club and Home to Rome

GAA News.

The club would like to say a huge congratulations to Rory Dobbyn and Jack O Donnell who represented their county in the U14 Tony Forristal and Sonny Walsh tournaments at the weekend. This is a great achievement for the lads and reflects well on their team mates, coaches, parents and the club. The club are very proud of the lads and hope that they enjoyed the experience.

The club is also very proud of club player Keith Millea who was part of the U15 Waterford Football panel who competed in the Mangan Cup. The club is very honoured to have another Ballyduff man line out in the county jersey.

The U5,6,7,8,9 and 10 teams have been enjoying some great games in hurling and football with some super performances. A big well done to the coaches who are doing a fantastic job which is made much easier with the enthusiasm shown by the children and their parents.


Ready To Help.

The nursery and academy section of our GAA club are eager to give back to the community who support them so much. Together with our local tidy towns group they will conduct a litter pick in Kilmeaden Village on Saturday September 15th at 10.30am. This is a great opportunity for the children to witness what goes into keeping a village clean. You are all very welcome to come along and join in the fun and the community occasion.


Back To School/College.

It’s hard to believe that the Summer has passed already and that everyone is packing school books and ironing uniforms. We wish the very best to all students whether they are starting playschool, primary school, secondary school or college or any of the inbetween years. We hope they all enjoy a safe and enjoyable school year.

 


Knitting/Crochet Group.

As the school year returns you may be thinking of starting a new interest or reconnecting with a past interest. Our local knitting and crochet group will resume their activities in September with the potential for an evening class also. If this is something you may have interest in or would like to find out more about then please contact Jeni on 086 8163101.


Home To Rome.
As I was writing these notes Arthur and Jordan Curry were making great headway with their charity cycle trip from Ballyduff to Rome. I have been following their daily updates on Facebook with great interest and at this stage they were travelling through the Alps. The guys have witnessed many different weathers along their journey and faced many difficulties aswell as seeing some fantastic scenery and enjoying some wonderful hospitality. While this is a very tiring trip it is also a trip that they will never forget and time for them to reflect and enjoy their time together.

I would like you all to mark Thursday September 6th in your diaries because that will be the evening that these heroic men will return from their journey. If you tune back into these notes next week I will be able to give you an approximate arrival time. It would be lovely to see as many of you as possible come out and welcome the guys back home to Ballyduff.


Notes Contact

With many clubs and organizations getting back into activities it is important to let people know what is going on in their community. A good way to get the message out there is to send me on some details and I will include the information in these notes. I am reliably informed that one or two people read them. You are welcome to contact me by call or text on 087 9838392 or by email on spillanelinda2017@gmail.com or indeed you can really be modern and stop me out and about for a chat. I would love to hear from you and it will be my pleasure to let people know what your club or group are up, about a birthday or family occasion you celebrated, charity events you are promoting or whatever else you feel your community should know about. I look forward to hearing from you.

Silver Celebrations, Results Time, Cycling for Emma

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 1, 10, 14 and 17 and there was no lucky jackpot winner. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Maurice Flynn, Renee Power and Donnacadh O Fuarthain. The next draw will take place on Monday August 27th and there will be a fantastic jackpot of €11,450 up for grabs. Tickets cost just €2 or three for €5 and are available from all committee members and will also be on sale outside Centra in Kilmeaden on Saturday August 25th. Get your ticket early and choose those four numbers very carefully.


Silver Celebrations

We send our warmest wishes to local Knockaderry couple Trevor and Helen Harris who recently celebrated 25 years of married bliss. I’m sure they celebrated in style as they are a couple who know how to party and I bet there was plenty of music and song thrown in. I have no doubt that this lovely couple will celebrate many more happy years of marriage and we wish them lots of love and laughter along the way.


Results Time

Congratultions to all the young men and women of our area who received their Leaving Cert results last week. We hope that whatever path they decide to take will bring them happiness and satifaction in their choice. Remember that not everyone travels the same road otherwise there would be a lot of congestion and the scenic route is always available.


Birthday Boy

Many congratulations and good wishes to well known Blacknock man Mossy O Keeffe who recently celebrated his 70th birthday. We hope Mossy enjoyed his special day and we wish him many more happy and healthy years.


A Little Princess.

Huge congratulations to John and Joanne Whelan, Matthews Cross on the recent birth of their beautiful daughter Penny. I’m sure her big brother Tom is ready to teach her all the tricks and will be a great big brother. We wish this happy little family every happiness and welcome baby Penny to our community.


Theatre School Return
Star Struck Theatre school will return for their next term on Monday August 27th in Ballyduff Community Centre. Any boys and girls aged between 5 and 9 years can pop along from 5pm till 6pm and from 6pm to 7pm it is the turn of the 10 to 18 year olds. Come along and join in the fun and check out what it is all about.


Fun Run/Walk

Congratulations and well done to all who took part in the recent Liz Hayes Memorial run and walk. This is always a popular event with people loving the beautiful scenic route around Knockaderry Lake. All money raised this year was divided between Ballyduff Community Centre and Focus Ireland. A big well done to all the category winners on the night and I know they all enjoyed and appreciated the wonderful array of refreshments laid on for them in the community centre afterwards.

Everything around the event was arranged to perfection so a big well done to all the organisers and of course to all at West Waterford AC for all their invaluable help and support.


Cycling For Emma
Those kindhearted guys from The Portlaw Village Wheelers were out in force again to help raise funds for another great charity The Emma Lacey Trust. Emma has been suffering from crippling spinal diseases for the past six years and in February she was also diagnosed with a serious brain condition. At the young age of 23 this Clonmel woman now faces more intensive surgery. Emma has Portlaw connections so when these lads heard that help was needed they were ready to take to the roads once again on their bikes.

These Portlaw cyclists were joined by fellow cyclists from Clonmel, Carrick on Suir and Kilmacow and between them on the day they collected €750 which they handed over to Paudie Everard, Chairman of the Emma Lacey Trust.

My husband Brian was due to take part in this cycle but unfortunately due to his accident he had to be a spectator instead. We were astounded at the reception we all received from the Lacey family and all their friends and neighbours in Beechwood Close. There was refreshments of every kind laid out and wonderful friendliness and hospitality bestowed upon everyone. It was a truly heartwarming experience and we sincerely wish Emma every good wish for the months ahead.


Sincere Sympathy

We offer our deepest sympathy to Mary Margaret Smith, Adamstown on the recent death of her beloved brother Michael Hanrahan. Michael had just returned home to Kilmeaden for his annual holiday when he was taken ill suddenly and called home to God.

Although he lived in Cardiff for over 40 years, he still regarded Kilmeaden as his home and he looked forward to his Summer holidays here every year and spending time with his sister Mary Margaret, her husband Pat and their children and grandchildren. He likes to come around this time of year and take in the Tramore races where he would place a bet or two. He was also a huge sports fan and followed the path of the Deise boys with great interest. He kept up with all the happenings back home here in Waterford with the reading of The Munster Express which was sent to him each week.

Michael’s death has left a huge void in the lives of those who loved him but we hope that they can take some comfort in all the wonderful memories they have of him. May he now rest in gentle peace.


Readers Wanted

As some of you may know I take care of arranging readers for our weekend masses. We usually try involve the family of whoevers anniversary mass is on but sometimes we need to pick someone from our volunteers list. If you feel this is something you would like to do from time to time then please let me know on 0879838392.

Our Symathies, Golden Couple and Genuine Thanks.

Our Sympathies.

We extend our deepest sympathy to Louise Phelan, Ardeenlone on the recent death of her father. Mr. Peter Diamond resided in Skreen, Co. Sligo where Louise, Mark and the family were frequent visitors. We hope tht Louise and all her family will find comfort in their wonderful memories and we pray that Peter now rests in peace.

 


Golden Couple

In recent weeks our parish had to say a sad farewell to well known and popular couple Sonny and Joan Griffin. This devoted couple lived in Penrose Cottage in the heart of Ballyduff Village looking straight at our beautiful church to which they gave great service over the years. Although we are saddened at their passing, I for one take a little comfort from the fact that they died within weeks of each other as they were never really apart in life.

Having made their life in England for many years they returned to Joan’s home place of Kilmeaden and spent many happy years here. Sonny’s home place of Kerry was never forgotten here with that flag flying proudly for all the Kerry games. Of course the couples many friends in England were frequent visitors and Joan and Sonny were regular visitors to Fishguard to meet up with friends and families. They enjoyed a full and happy lifestyle enjoying music and dance and the company of friends. We pray that they both now enjoy the peace of heaven as they sit together at the Lords table.


Birthday Boy

We send our heartiest congratulations to Johnny Cummins, Carrickphilip who recently celebrated his 60th birthday. Johnny celebrated in style with friends and family at his lovely home and was even kind enough to share his birthday celebrations with son Eoin who recently turned 30 so there was birthdays galore to celebrate. His son Thomas even flew in from abroad to join in the fun. I wasnt able to attend but am told that I missed a fabulous night of sing song, fun and laughter. We hope all the family enjoyed the celebrations and wish them lots more fun and laughter in the years ahead.


Genuine Thanks

On Tuesday July 31st I received one of those phone calls that everyone dreads getting. My husband Brian had taken a bad fall from his bicycle on the main road. Thankfully we are counting our blessings as we are well aware of how much more serious it could have been. Brians injuries will all heal given time and rest and following a few days in hospital he is now back home to us thank God.

I mention the accident not because we are looking for sympathy but because we genuinely appreciate all the help and support we have received. When things like this happen you get to witness the great work being done in our hospitals by staff who are often put under severe pressure with long and strenuous hours. We would like to thank the people who stopped to help Brian on the road, the fantastic ambulance crews and the kindhearted nurses and medical staff on WRH. Also a huge thank you to our families, friends and neighbours who have been so supportive and kind and the many visitors to our home who are really keeping Brians spirits up. As any of you who know Brian will know he is not the kind of fella who is used to sitting around the house resting so it is hard for him to adjust to that style of life but please God he will return to full health very soon.

I dont mean to lecture any of you but I urge you all to please always wear a helmet when out cycling. If Brian had not been wearing one we could have been faced with a totally different situation. He has always insisted on a brilliant helmet and this was his saving grace on the day. Remember you are very important to many people so out of respect for them and yourself wear your helmet and show good example to your children and those around you. Lecture over!

Thank you all once again for all your kindness and good wishes. In a world where we witness so many horrible and nasty things and acts, kindness and generosity always shine through and the goodness of people never ceases to amaze me.

 


A Beautiful Boy

We send our heartiest congratulations to Peter and Valarie Doyle on the recent birth of their beautiful son Reuben Michael. He is a most handsome little man and I know he will be spoilt rotten by the Doyle and Raher families. We welcome Reuben to our community and we wish this little family every happiness that life has to offer.

Wedding Bells, Knitting and Crochet Group and Fun Run/Walk

Wedding Bells

Wedding season has certainly hit our area with another lovely wedding last week. It was a local union this time bringing Ballyduff and Blacknock together. Lizzie O Keeffe and Joe O Brien exchanged their marriage vows in front of their children Shannon and Shane and their family and friends. After a beautiful ceremony it was off to The Tower Hotel for some fine dining and dancing. This wedding was so popular that even Billy from Aslan turned up to sing “Crazy World” for the bride and groom. We wish this happy little family the very best of luck and happiness for the future.


GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 14, 20, 23 and 24. There was no jackpot winner and the lucky dip winners of €50 each were Rob Power, Brenda Foley and Ellen c/o Gary Flynn. The next draw will take place on Monday August 13th and will have a fantastic jackpot of €11,300 on offer. Tickets cost just €2 or three for €5 and are available from all club members and will be on sale at Centra on Saturday August 11th. Choose your numbers carefully.

 


Knitting and Crochet Group

Our local knitting and crochet group had their last meeting on Tuesday July 31st. They are taking a few weeks off before resuming again in September. Jeni who has been running the group would like me to say a huge thank you to all the wonderful ladies whom she had the pleasure of meeting. It was a delight for her to spend her Tuesday mornings with these ladies enoying plenty of knitting and crochet projects as well as many laughs, tears and chats. The group will resume again in September with the possibility of evening classes also. If you would like any more information about this group please feel free to contact Jeni on 086 8163101.


GAA Development News

Ballyduff Lower GAA club are based in Kildermody where they have their own grounds and dressing rooms ever since it was founded in 1887. The club caters for the population of Ballyduff, Kilmeaden and surrounding areas. The playing activities at Tom Cheasty Park are a hive of activity for players of all ages especially during the Summer months.

The committee of the club have decided to invest in a major development of its facilities in Kildermody. The club have decided to invest in a ball alley, astroturf, lights, running track and other improvements. The club have been successful in securing a Sports Capital Grant of €60,000 towards the cost of this development but need an additional €75,000 to complete the project.

The fundraising proposal they have put forward is a contribution of €750 over three years payable either as a single contribution of €750 or €250 for each of the next three years or 30 monthly payments of €25.

In return the club offers each contributor, free membership for adult non playing members for 3 years, Adult players will receive a €30 reduction in membership fees for 3 years, €30 reduction in family membership fees for 3 years and one free lotto entry ticket each fortnight for 3 years. All contributors and sponsors will also be named on a plague to be displayed in Tom Cheasty Park.


Fun Run/Walk

All the preparations have been done now and the countdown is on for the Liz Hayes Memorial 5 mile fun run/walk on Friday August 10th. Walkers will take off at 6.45pm while the runners will head off at 7.30pm. Entry is €10 and students and juniors are €5. All proceeds will go to Ballyduff Community Centre. There will be plenty of cash prizes and spot prizes on the day and West Waterford AC will take care of race timmings . There will be a fine array of refreshments on offer in the community centre following the race followed by the prize giving.

This is a great community event and all are invited to come along and join in the fun.