Roaring Success, Holy Week Cermonies and Knitting and Crochet group.

Roaring Success
Congratulations and well done to Seamus and Michelle Dunphy and all at The Sweep Bar who held an extremely successful coffee morning for the Waterford branch of Down Syndrome Ireland. A fantastic crowd showed up to give their support to this very worthwhile charity and everyone was treated to hot cuppas along with treats galore. Due to other committments I was unable to attend this and I was very disappointed as I knew it would be a huge success. A fantastic amount over €3000 was raised so a big well done to all the organisers and to all who supported it.

1916 Commemoration

On Easter Sunday after the 10am mass there will be a short ceremony at our 1916 commemoration plaque in the green. The ceremony will include the raising of the flag, the singing of the National Anthem and the reading of the proclamation. All are invited to come along and join in.

Musician Extraodinaire!

Congratulations to our very own local guitarist extraodinaire Jack Kennedy who recently won the classical guitar solo at the Feis Ceoil which was held in the RDS. This is a fantastic achievement and I know his parents George and Jeni and brothers Ben and Tom are extremely proud of him as we all are too. Jack has always had a tremendous musical talent and is also one of the nicest guys you could ever meet. But as the saying goes he didn’t lick his talents off a stone as the family excel in musical talent. Take a look at his facebook page Jack Kennedy Music for some recordings and information on performances. Congratulations again Jack.

Fancy A Bounce.

You may remember me telling you about the charity cycle Brian is taking part in next month called The Munster Airport Challenge, which is a 500km sponsored cycle with all money raised going to The Touching Hearts charity. In conjunction with this our friends in Megabounce in Mooncoin will hold a special family fun day at Megabounce on Good Friday from 10am to 6pm. Entry fee is just €5 per child with lots of fun on offer and a special guest or two dropping in to. You will also have an opportunity to buy some delicious homebaking. All proceeds on the day are being given to the Munster Airport Challenge fund so a huge thank you to Shane and all at Megabounce for this wonderful kind gesture. Megabounce is situated at Carrigeen GAA field. Come along and join in the fun, it’s always a Good Friday at Megabounce!

Holy Week Ceremonies.

We are into the very busy week in the churches calendar as we prepare ourselves to welcome the joyful season of Easter. On Holy Thurday we will celebrate mass of the Last Supper with pupils from 2nd class taking the place of the apostles and having their feet washed. On Friday at 3pm the Passion of the Lord will be celebrated while the stations of the cross will be at 7.30pm. Holy Saturday is a beautiful ceremony full of light and rejoicing and this will be at 9pm while Easter morning mass will be at 10am.

Holy Thursday is the ideal day to return your Trocaire boxes and the collection for the support of the priests of the parish will be taken up at the Easter weekend masses.

Community Alert
Our local community alert group held their recent meeting in Ballyduff Community Centre and it was great to see such a large attendance again. Condolences were offered to Albert Kearns on the recent death of his sister Bridget.

Praise was expressed to individuals like Brian Spillane, Darren Butler, John Phelan and the many other people who helped their neighbours and community by clearing roadways and driveways and getting people to shops etc during the recent snowy season.

Garda Tom Daly spoke to the meeting and expressed again how important it is that we all work together to keep our communities safe. A phonecall to your local Garda about something unusual or suspicious may just prevent a crime being committed.

The next meeting of this group will be in April so watch this space for further details.

Knitting and Crochet Group

Ballyduff’s new knitting and crochet group are going from strength to strength. They meet every Tuesday in Ballyduff Community Centre from 10am to 11am and will continue to meet over the Easter holidays. All levels are welcome to come along and if you require further details please contact 086-8163101.

Coffee Mornings, Choral Concert and First Friday Visits

Booking of Masses
If would like to book a weekend anniversary mass for a loved one for the months of April, May or June then bookings will take place after the weekend masses on Saturday March 24th and Sunday March 25th. If you have a months mind or First anniversary mass during these months please contact Linda Spillane on 087-9838392 before the bookings so that you can get your prefered date.

Coffee Morning.

On Wednesday March 21st The Sweep will host a coffee morning in aid of Down Syndrome Waterford with all proceeds going to the local branch. Come along between 9.30am and 12 noon and enjoy a nice cuppa and a treat while enjoying a friendly chat with old friends and new. There will be a raffle also with some lovely prizes so your luck might be in.

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the last lotto draw were 6, 20, 22 and 28. There was no jackpot winner but the three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Paula Gahan, Connie and Gillian and Kathleen Power. The next draw will take place on March 25th and will have a fantastic jackpot of €9,800. Tickets cost just €2 or 3 for €5 and are available from committee members and will be on sale outside Centra on Saturday March 24th.

Reconciliation.

Congratulations to all the boys and girls who celebrated their Sacrament of Penance last week. Miss Sprice, Mr.Hutchinson and Miss Clancy were very proud of their students as I’m sure their parents were. They are concentrating now on their preparations for their First Holy Communion Day on May 12th so we wish them well.

GAA News

Well done to all the U9 hurlers who recently travelled to an indoor blitz in Ballygunner. They played some great games and showed great character in experiencing all the emotions that come with winning, loosing and drawing. There were some great performances and it is wonderful to see these guys enjoying the thrill of hurling so much. With plenty more games to come there is lots to look forward to and a big thank you to all the parents who give such support to the team.

The club are organising a fund raising night to raise funds to construct a ball wall at the hurling field. The club present The 2 Johnnies followed by a disco on April 13th in The Woodlands Hotel. This is an Over 16’s event but U18’s must be accompanied by an adult. This promises to be a great night out. Tickets are available from any committee member or from The Woodlands or by phoning 087-2486423.

1916 Commemoration.
On Easter Sunday after 10am mass there will be a special commemoration at our 1916 plaque outside the church. This will include the reading of the proclamation, the singing of our National Anthem and the raising of the flag. All are invited to come along and take part in this event.

Choral Concert

On Friday March 23rd at 8pm in Ballyduff church we shall welcome the Lions Township high school choir from Western Springs, Illnois, America who will be on a tour of Ireland and will be stopping off in Waterford for a few days. This splendid mixed youth choir will perform at a concert in our church and have invited our own local choir to join them. There will be no admission fee on the night but during the interval a collection will be taken up for the restoration fund for our community centre. This promises to be a great night of song followed by some refreshments in the community centre. Please come along and relax and enjoy the sounds of his choral concert.

Coffee Morning.

We are being spoiled this week with coffee mornings and lovely treats. Local lady Sharon Flynn will host a coffee morning on Friday March 23rd in Ballyduff Community Centre from 9.30am to 12 noon. All money raised on the day will go to Temple Street Hospital so come along to support this worthy charity while enjoying a nice morning of relaxation and friendly chat.

First Friday Visits.

Fr. Mick has asked me to let his First Friday clients know that he will visit them on Holy Thursday between 2pm and 3pm. If this is not convienient for you or you will not be home at that time could you please let me Linda Spillane know on 087-9838392 and I will pass on the message to him.

Church News.

Fr. Mick would like parents to know that if your child has not yet made their communion but comes forward at communion time at mass for a blessing they can indeed receive this blessing from the lay Minister of the Eucharist on that day also. There has been some confusion about this so he would like to make known his view on the issue.

This weekend sees the celebration of Palm Sunday with the reading of the Passion of the Lord and the blessings of Palm. There will be plenty pieces of palm available in the three church porches and this will be blessed during the mass.

We are of course approaching the most important time in the church’s calendar with the celebrations and ceremonies of Holy Week leading up to the joyous celebration of Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday. I will carry a full timetable of ceremonies next week in this column so make sure you tune in.

Just a quick little reminder that Holy Thursday will be the day for handing back your Trocaire box so perhaps we will all put in an extra effort for the coming weeks.

Your Notes.
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 spillanelinda2017@gmail.com

Date for your Diary, On your Bike and Snow Memories

Spring Stations.

The annual Spring station masses are now over and Fr.Mick would like to thank all who hosted and attended the station masses. A big thank you also to all those who handed in their station envelopes.

The station masses will come around again in the Autumn so if you would like to host a mass for your area you can let Linda know on 087-9838392.

Coffee Morning

On Wednesday March 21st The Sweep Bar will host a coffee morning in aid of Down Syndrome. All money raised on the day will go to the local branch of Down Syndrome, Waterford. This is a great opportunity to support a very worthwhile charity while enjoying a nice cuppa and a chat with old friends and new. Hope to see you there and don’t forget to tell your friends.

Sympathies Extended

We extend our deepest sympathies to Martin Cornwell, Ballyduff West on the recent death of his father. Mr. Robert(Bob) Cornwell was a former resident of Williamstown Park. Bob’s funeral mass took place in The Sacred Heart Church, The Folly and he was laid to rest in St.Otterans cemetery. We pray that he is now at peace and sharing in the joys of heaven.

We also extend our sympathy to Albert Kearns, Tigroe on the recent death of his sister. Bridget Hubbard was a well known resident of Scrahan, Kilmacthomas and formerly from Carrigready, Bunmahon. Bridget’s removal and funeral mass took place to The All Saints church Newtown with burial in the adjoining cemetery. May she rest in peace and enjoy the peace and comfort of heaven.

St.Patricks Day Parade.

Our local GAA club are inviting all children and adults to join them this year in Waterfords St. Patricks Day parade. You are all invited to join them whether you are a member of the club or not. This is a lovely chance to join in the atmosphere of the day and show what our club and community is all about. You can wear club gear or colours but you must wear a smile!

Night For The Diaries

Ballyduff GAA club present a night of music and comedy as they present to you The 2 Johnnies at The Woodlands Hotel on Friday April 13th. The show will kick off at 9pm with doors opening at 8pm. Admission is €20 and there will be a full bar. U18’s must be accompanied by an adult. Our very own John O Shea will be on hand to have you dancing the night away after the show. Tickets are available from any committee member, The Woodlands Hotel or by contacting 087-2486423.

Church News.

A reminder to you all that the Vigil mass for St.Patricks Day will be at 7.30pm on Friday March 16th and mass on St.Patricks day morning will be at 10am. Both of these masses will of course be as gaeilge.

You can avail of your spiritual spring cleaning for Easter at the Penitential service which will take place during both masses on Saturday March 17th at 7.30pm and Sunday March 18th at 10am. This is a lovely opportunity to clear your worries before the Easter season.

 

Date For Your Diary.

St. Nicholas’s church choir will present an evening of choral music in Ballyduff church on Friday March 23rd . The Lions Township high school choir from Western springs, Lillnois, America will be on a tour of Ireland and will spend a few days in Waterford. This splendid mixed youth choir will perform in our church and have invited our local choir to join them. There will be no admission fee but during the interval a collection will be taken up for the restoration fund for our local community centre. Both choirs are very busy at present rehearsing for what promises to be a wonderful night of entertainment. Refreshments will be served after the concert in the community centre.

Snow Memories.

As the final traces of snow disappear we are left only with the memories of building snowmen and throwing snowballs. More importantly we are left with the memories of the wonderful acts of kindness and goodness which we witnessed during those days that we were blocked into our homes and unable to get out for supplies etc. Many people are probably tired of listening to me raving about the wonderful place we live but the news is I will never stop doing it. A huge well done to all who helped clear driveways and roadways, checked on neighbours, got groceries and fuel for those unable to get out and kept the lines of communication open in their area to make sure everyone was ok. This is what community is all about, it’s about helping each other out, offering that hand of friendship. I truly believe that what you give in life you receive back ten fold and I have been on the receiving end of much kindness and friendship in our community and I can tell you that it is a wonderful feeling to know that you have that level of support and friendship. I urge you to keep up the good work not only in times of bad weather, a visit or a phonecall can lift someones day and make all the difference in someones life.

 

On Your Bike.

As I have told you in previous weeks my husband Brian and some of his fellow cyclists from the Portlaw Village Wheelers cycling club will once again take to the roads of Munster to take part in the Munster Airport Challenge. They will head off in April to complete this 500 km cycle over 3 days. This was a huge success last year and their nominated charity this year is Touching Hearts. All the guys pay their own expenses for the trip so every penny raised goes to the charity. Brian and I thank all those who have contacted me to offer sponsorship for Brian. If you as an individual or company would like to sponsor Brian we would be absolutely delighted. You can contact me on 087-9838392, spillanelinda2017@gmail.com or stop me when I am out and about, the sponsorship card travels with me.

New Group, Coffee Morning and Community Alert

New Group
Are you a keen knitter or perhaps you enjoy a bit of crochet or have you always said that this is something you would like to try? A new knitting and crochet group now meet in Ballyduff Community Centre each Tuesday morning from 10am to 11am. All levels are welcome to come along and enjoy a cuppa and a chat while those needles are going. If you are interested just pop along to the hall or if you would like some more information call Jeni on 086-8163101.

Recent Death

We extend our deepest sympathy to Bridget Whelan of Matthews Cross on the recent death of her beloved sister Eileen Bolger. Eileen was living in Coventry in Birmingham but her chosen final resting place was back to her home place of Kilmacow. We pray that Eileen now enjoys the peace and comfort of Gods heavenly kingdom and we offer our prayers of comfort to all her family. May she rest in peace.

Coffee Morning.

A date for you to pencil into your diary is National Down Syndrome Day which falls on March 21st. To celebrate this day The Sweep Bar will host a coffee/tea morning on Wednesday March 21st and all money raised on the day will go to the local branch of Down Syndrome Waterford. This is a lovely opportunity to enjoy a cuppa and a chat and maybe a nice treat or two while supporting a very deserving charity who provide such great support to all its members.

Station Masses

We are already down to our last mass of the Spring stations. The mass for the areas of Matthews Cross, Ballyduff East and Adamstown will take place on Tuesday March 6th at 8pm in the home of Eddie and Helena Power.

Community Celebration

Congratulations to all those within Ballyduff GAA Club who helped organise their recent Community Celebration night which took place in The Sweep. Music on the night was provided by Deadly Medleys. During the night medals were presented to the Junior and U21 teams and a Pot Luck Monster Raffle proved very popular. The club would like to thank all those who attended and supported the event and have also asked me to thank Michelle and Seamus Dunphy for their unending support to the club and the use of their premises for the event. They would also like to thank the sponsors of their raffle, The Sweep Bar, Michael Dunphy Butchers, The Sweep Garage, Penn Products, Kilmeaden Pharmacy, Hennessys Gala Klmeaden, Countrylife Kilmeaden, Morris’s DIY, Centra Kilmeaden, Ryanmotorpower and John O Leary.

Church News
Some dates for your diary for the coming month are that the vigil mass for St.Patricks Day will be on Friday March 16th at 7.30pm and mass on St.Patricks morning will be at 10am. Both of these masses will be in Irish.

The Penitential service with individual absolution will take place during the weekend masses on Saturday March 17th at 7.30pm and Sunday March 18th at 10am. This is a great opportunity to begin preparations for the holy season of Easter.

Community Alert

I recently attended the meeting of our local community alert group and it is very encouraging to see such large numbers attending. The meeting was opened by offering sympathies to the Harris family on the recent death of Ollie, a proud community man. Sympathy was also extended to committee member Jay Dowdall on the death of his father and to Garda Tom Daly on the death of his mother.

Addressing the meeting on the night was guest David Wade from the health, fitness and well being centre in Fiddown. He spoke about the many services available at the premises and the importance of a healthy mind as well as a healthy body.

Margaret Quinn from Muintir na Tire also addressed the group and was genuinely impressed by the large numbers who are attending our local meetings. She praised the group and urged them to keep up the good work and pledged her support to the group in any way she can help.

Superintendant John Mulligan was also in attendance and informed the group that in 2017 our area was the 2nd safest place in the county and that our text alert scheme and cooperation from the public has led to many arrests and prosecutions and so he urged people to remain vigilant and to report anything that they feel is suspicious. Garda Tom Daly also echoed those sentiments and also spoke about the importance of internet safety. He also showed the group the contents of a bag which is now carried around with the on duty guards at Kilmacthomas station, the bag contains a difibilater and trauma kit which can be used at a scene while emergency services make their way to the site. 6 of the guards at the station are fully trained to use these pieces of equipment and the other guards will also be trained.

This was a very interesting meeting and I urge you to come along to these meetings and get involved. You are asked for nothing in return just your help in keeping our area safe for all. Keep an eye out through these notes and I will let you know about the upcoming meetings.

Dolmen Active Retired, Knit one Purl one and GAA Nursery and Academy

Spring Stations

The annual Spring station masses are continuing and the mass for Kilmagemogue, Ross, Kildermody, Ardeenlone, Ballygarron, Lisahane, Shanbally, Carrickphilip, Knockaderry and Carriganure will take place on Tuesday February 27th at 7.30pm in Ballyduff Church.

The station mass for Matthews Cross, Ballyduff East and Adamstown will be held on Tuesday March 6th at 8pm in the home of Eddie and Helena Power.

Tidy Towns

Our local Tidy Towns group will hold their next meeting on Wednesday February 28th at 7.30pm in Ballyduff Community Centre. As many of you know the general maintenace and grass cutting in our area is done on a voluntary basis. Due to certain setbacks, the group need a new volunteer or volunteers to come forward to do this job. The group need to increase their numbers so that they can continue to improve and enhance our village and surrounding areas. You are not asked for a huge committment and of course many hands make light work. If you are interested in helping out please come along to the meeting or if you are unable to attend please call Tony on 086-6078272 and express your interest.

Dolmen Active Retired.
Are you finding yourself will some free time and would like to get out and meet some new friends. The Dolmen Active Retired group are always keen to welcome new members and would be delighted to see you join them. Their next meeting will take place on Tuesday March 6th in The Holy Cross Lounge at 10.30 am. The meeting will begin with the customary cuppa before getting down to the business of the day.

They have arranged a lovely walk on the Greenway from Mount Congreve to Kilmeaden station on March 13th. There will be a nice cuppa and a chat at Kilmeaden station before heading back to Mount Congreve to collect your car in the carpark. What a beautiful picturesque route to walk along.

Recent Death.

We extend our deepest sympathies to Miriam Daly, Powersknock on the recent death of her father Peter Griffin. Peter was residing in Thurles but was formerly a resident of Pickardstown, Tramore and a retired member of An Garda Siochana. Peter’s funeral mass took place in the Cathedral of the Assumption, Thurles and he was laid to rest in St. Patricks cemetery in Thurles. We offer our condolences to Miriam and all her family and we pray that Peter enjoys the peace and comfort of heaven.

GAA Lotto.

The numbers drawn in the latest GAA lotto draw were 14, 15, 19 and 22 and there was no lucky winner of the jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Kathleen Power, Philip Power and John Stephenson. The next draw will take place on Sunday March 4th and will have a fantastic jackpot of €9,650. Tickets are just €2 or 3 for €5 and are available from all committee members and will be on sale on Saturday March 3rd at Centra. Pick those 4 lucky numbers carefully.

Knit One Purl One.

Great to hear our new local knitting and crochet group will meet on Tuesday mornings from 10am to 11am in Ballyduff Community Centre. All levels are welcome to come along and join in the fun. If you would like any further information please contact Jeni on 086-8163101
Thanks >From Bonnie

Local lady Bonnie O Reilly has asked me to say a big thank you to all who came along to the coffee morning held in Ballyduff Community Centre on Sunday February 18th. Bonnie and some other students from Transition Year in St. Declans Community College in Kilmacthomas organised hampers last Christmas for people in need in our own area and surrounding parishes. The money raised at the coffee morning will also go to those people. I attended this coffee morning myself and I must say what a beautiful array of buns, cakes and treats and all homemade. I hear that there is a great shortage of flour and eggs up around the Ardeenlone area after it. A huge well done, it is heartwarming to see such kindness and respect from our young people.

Bridge News
The results of the Ballyduff/Portlaw Bridge Club Championships are in and are as follows:

1st: Peggy Murphy and Elizabeth Mooney

2nd: Patsy Roche and Kathleen Collins.

3rd: Sean Hennessy and Kate Hayes.

4th:Ann Marie Brown and Mary Prendergast.

5th: Breda Kirwan and Eileen Kirwan.
The seasonal prizes went to :

Anna Harney and Anna Ryan.

Mary Cummins and Brenda Cummins.

GAA Nursery and Academy

This section of our local GAA club are back in full force and are delighted to welcome such a great number of young people. Fully qualified garda vetted coaches take care of this group which is aimed at boys and girls aged from 4 years old up to 10. Hurling, camogie and football are catered for. Check out the Ballyduff Lower GAA club facebook page and keep up to date with all the times and schedules or talk to any club members. New starters are always welcome.

Recent Death

We extend our deepest sympathies to Tony Whelan, Kilmagemogue on the recent death of his sister who was of course also the sister in law of Anna Whelan, Gortaclode. Breda Bennett was a resident of Granstown Park and her funeral mass took place in St.Marys church, Ballygunner with burial in the adjoining cemetery. We offer our prayers to all the Bennett and Whelan families and we pray that Breda now enjoys the peace and love of God.

Spring Stations, Community Celebration and The Best of the Best

Spring Stations

It is time for the annual Spring station masses and on Tuesday February 20th at 7.30pm the mass for Newtown, Cullinagh, Gortaclode, Ballyduff Village, Ballyduff Hill and Ballyduff West will be in Ballyduff Church.

On Wednesday February 21st the mass for Blacknock, Powersknock, Fan Glas, Raheen and Amberhill will be in Ballyduff church at 7.30pm.

Tuesday February 27th it will be the turn of Kilmagemogue, Ross, Kildermody, Ardeenlone, Ballygarron, Lisahane, Shanbally, Carrigphilip, Knockaderry and Carriganure in Ballyduff Church at 7.30pm.

 

Community Alert

Our local community alert group will hold their next meeting on Tuseday February 20th in Ballyduff Community Centre at 8pm. Representatives from the Health and Fitness well being studio will be in attendance and will speak to the meeting. Margaret Quinn from Muintir na Tire will also speak. This group is going from strength to strength and is one of the most succesful in the county. Please come along and become part of a group whose sole aim is to to give each person in our community a safe and peaceful place to live. Nothing is asked of you in return only to come along and show your support.

Community Celebration

Ballyduff GAA club will host a community celebration night on Saturday February 24th in The Sweep Bar. Music on the night will be provided by Deadly Medleys and finger food will be served. During the night medals will be presented to the Junior and U21 teams. There will be no cover charge and a “Pot Luck” monster raffle on the night.

Tidy Towns

Our local Tidy Towns group held their AGM recently and would like to thank all who attended and also to all who have supported them in the past year. The committee would also like to thank Stephaine Power in association with GSK, Dungarvan for their generous donation.

As most of you are aware the general maintenance and grass cutting in our area is done on a voluntary basis. Due to certain setbacks more help is needed to keep up this service. The group would like to invite anybody who has the time to help out and is interested in giving some time to come along to a meeting in Ballyduff Community Centre on Wednesday February 28th at 7.30pm. The group hope to increase in numbers and improve the village and surrounding areas. If you are unable to attend the meeting but would like to help please contact Tony on 086-6078272. The group look forward to seeing some new faces and hearing new ideas.

Academy/Nursery News.

Ballyduff GAA Club have returned back to their nursery and academy training. For the next few weeks training will take place on the Astro turf pitch in Ballyduff Soccer field. This training is for boys and girls from the age of 4 to 10 years and is a fantastic opportunity to get children out in the fresh air and let them have fun with their friends in a safe environment. If your child is interested then bring them along on a Saturday morning and they will be made very welcome. For those aged U7 training is from 10am to 11am and from 11am to 12 noon for U10’s.

Shrek-Tastic!

Congratulations and well done to all the cast and crew of Shrek saves far far away which was staged recently by Ballyduff Youth Drama group. I went along on the Saturday night and I must say I was super impressed. There were some brilliant stand out performances but overall everyone did a fabulous job. The one stand out thing for me was the enjoyment on each performers face. They obviously had a ball up there on stage and a big well done to Helen, Eleanor and Joan who keep this going each year, it is a great outlet for the young people to gain confidence and self belief.

Needles At The Ready!

If you are interested in joining a knitting and crochet group in Ballyduff Community Centre please get in contact with Jeni on 086-8163101. All levels will be welcome and of course the customary cuppa and chat will also be on the go. Please get in touch with Jeni to register your interest and so she can determine what is the best day and time for everyone.

Lourdes Call
A reminder that if you would like to put forward someones name to travel as part of the invalid setion of the Waterford/Lismore Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes you need to do so by Friday February 23rd. You can give the persons name to Noel O Sullivan, Eugene Power, Donal Daly or John O Leary.

The Best Of The Best

I never dreamed that I would be speaking about this person in the past tense and I am sure that no matter what I do write it will never do enough justice. While many admire celebrities and famous people to me the people to admire are those everyday people who make you sit up and take notice. Their arrival is never announced by a fanfair and sometimes their presence is not even noticed. Ollie Harris was a man I greatly admired and I know many more people felt the same. During his funeral mass genuine tears fell from the eyes of adults, teenagers and children. He touched many lives and he has left a lasting impression on young and old.

One of the main things I admired about Ollie was the love, respect and devotion he had for his family. The vows he and Kathleen made to each other on their wedding day remained important to them throughout their married life. You seldom met one of them without the other. Ollie’s whole being lit up when he spoke about his children or grandchildren. He was so proud of each of them and all their achievements, his idea of a perfect day was when they were all together. He has left them with so many wonderful memories which in the days and years ahead will give them great comfort.

Ollies great faith was evident to all without imposing on anybody and he gave great service to our parish and community. He was involved in many different committees over the year and was always on hand to lend a hand and no job was too big or too small. He showed what community was all about and his legacy will remain forever in our hearts and minds.

Of course the other great love in Ollie’s life was GAA. He especially took great pride in watching the children and young people enjoy the game of hurling. His help to our local club was invaluable and he knew each child by name and took great interest in watching them grow up. His support to club and county remained strong not only in the glory days.

These are all just a few aspects of Ollies life. I think I can speak for you all when I say he shall be missed greatly and he has left a lasting impression on us all. Our parish is most definetly a poorer place without him but we must now carry on his great work and draw example from his memory. If we can all take a little trait from Ollies personality and add it to our daily life then we will no doubt enhance our parish and community a little more.

We offer our deepest condolences to Kathleen, Denise, Yvonne, John, his grandchildren and all the Harris family. We promise to support and comfort you and to never forget the kindhearted, generous and loving man that was Ollie Harris. May the soil rest gently on him and may he enjoy the wonder and beauty of Gods kingdom. Somebody said to me that there would be no doubt that the Lord would have a seat ready at his table for Ollie but my answer was for Ollie the Lord himself would stand up and give him his seat. Rest in peace gentle friend.

Worker Needed, Needles at the Ready and Shrek time.

Spring Stations.

The Spring station masses will begin in the coming weeks and I will carry a full list of them next week.

A volunteer is needed to host the station mass for the combined areas of Knockaderry, Carrigphilip and Carriganure. If you are interested in hosting this mass please text Fr.Mick on 087-9626618 or text or call Linda on 087-9838392. The mass would be held during February or early March.

Worker Needed

Ballyduff Soccer Club are still on the lookout for a CE worker to help in the club grounds. This is an ideal opportunity for someone to enjoy the outdoors and mix with many different people. If you are interested in finding out more about the job please contact Paddy on 087-2764883.

Names For Lourdes

Each year we as a community like to send two people to Lourdes with the Waterford/Lismore Diocesan Pilgrimage. This is a wonderful opportunity for people to get the chance to travel to Lourdes as part as the invalid section of the pilgrimage. If you would like to put someones name forward please contact one of the following by Friday February 23rd, Noel O Sullivan, Donal Daly, Eugene Power or John O Leary.

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 4,6,11 and 26 and there was no winner of the jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Jim Laffan, Kathleen Power and Michael Curran. The next draw will take place on Sunday February 11th and will have a fantastic jackpot of €9,500. Wouldn’t that be a wonderful way to start the New Year. Tickets are just €2 or 3 for €5 and are available from club members and will be on sale on Saturday February 10th at Centra.

Charity Fundraiser

On Saturday February 22nd O Donnachas will play host to a charity night in aid of the Hope Foundation working with street children in Calcutta, India. The foundation have been working with these children since 1999. Funds raised on the night will be used to send local volunteer Sharon O Leary to Calcutta.

A great night is planned with music by Throwing Shapes. There will be an auction and raffle with lots of raffle prizes on offer. Get yourself along for a great night out while helping a brilliant charity.

Needles At The Ready.

Are you interested in joining a local knitting and crochet group? It is hoped to start a group in Ballyduff Community Centre. All levels will be welcomed and catered for and of course the customary cuppa and chat will all be part of the plan. If you are interested then please express your interest by contacting Jeni on 086-8163101.

 

GAA News

A big thank you to all who attended the coaches meeting last week. All at Ballyduff GAA club were delighted with such a big turnout. There was a nice mix of familiar returning faces and new faces. This shows the high level of community spirit in our area. The club really appreciates the time and effort which is put in by all its volunteers.

The nursery and academy sections of the club have proved very successful and they will be back to their training on February 17th. The Nursery group will cater for boys and girls born in 2011, 2012 and 2013 and the Academy for those born in 2008, 2009,and 2010. The organisers look forward to welcoming familiar faces back but also hope to see some new faces. I’ll have more information for you in the coming weeks so watch this space.

Shrek Time.

Ballyduff Youth Drama have been very busy rehearsing for this years production of Shrek Saves Far Far Away and they are now ready to take to the stage. Ballyduff Community Centre is the place to be on Friday February 9th and Saturday February 10th with tickets retailing at €10. You can book your ticket by texting or calling Eleanor on 087-4046904.

This promises to be a great night out with lots of fun and laughter guaranteed. Book your ticket now.

Shrek is Coming to Town, Dawn Players and Coming of Age.

Shrek is coming to Town.

Ballyduff Youth Drama will present their show “Shrek Saves Far Far Away” in Ballyduff Community Centre on Friday February 9th and Saturday February 10th. Tickets cost just €10 and are available by texting or ringing Eleanor on 087-4046904. The group have been working really hard and rehearsals have been going brilliantly. This promises to be a great show, the group have treated us to some fantastic shows over the years and I am sure this year will be no different. Get your ticket for a night of fun.

Dawn Players

Dawn Players Drama Group treated us to a great night of comedy as they staged their recent production of “Dying To Meet You”. Great crowds gathered each night to be treated to some brilliant laughs. A big well done to all the cast and crew and to all who worked so hard backstage. A big well done to all the volunteers who looked after the selling of raffle tickets and made sure everyone enjoyed a nice cuppa at the interval each night. The group would like to thank everyone who came along to support the show.

Recent Death

We extend our deepest sympathy to Sharon Foster, Amberhill on the recent death of her mother Stella Quinn. Stellas removal and funeral mass took place in St. Johns church in Parnell Street. She was then taken to her final resting place in St. Otterans cemetery, Ballinaeesagh. We offer our sympathy and prayers to Sharon and all the Foster family. May she rest in peace.

Baby Boy.

We send our warmest congratulations to Breda and Cormac O Brien on the recent birth of their baby son Liam. I hear that he is a real handsome chap. Breda is of course formerly Breda Kennedy of Stonehouse and I’m sure grandparents Martin and Margaret are delighted and ready and willing to take on the babysitting role. We look forward to meeting Liam on one of his visits to Kilmeaden.

GAA News.

Our local club are on the lookout for a suitable volunteer to manage our Junior C hurling team. Training for this group will be looked after within the club structure. The managers job is a very rewarding position as they manage the team for their championship games. The manager will be assured the support of the club. If you feel you can help with this position please contact any committee member or management of the Intermediate team.

The club have been asked to assist Ballyduff N.S in coaching a girls camogie team. This would require a one hour committment every Wednesday afternoon from April to June. There will be plenty of help available from the club as there is already a coach in place for the boys and some Transition Year students have also been enlisted to help. This is a great opportunity for someone to help the pupils achieve their goals and enjoy sport activities. If you are interested in helping out please contact Brian on 087-2486423.

Coming Of Age.

Margaret and Gerry O Connell will celebrate the 21st birthday of serving the customers of Haughtons Bar. They would love you all to come along and share this milestone with them. On Saturday February 3rd they will begin the celebrations with a walk along the Greenway at 5pm so come along and bring the family. On the return back to Haughtons you can enjoy some punch and finger food. From 9.30pm to 12pm it will be time to recall some stories and happenings from over the years and of course the famous Haughtons sing song. Come along and join in the fun. I had the pleasure of serving in the bar at the beginning of these 21 years and what a great time I had. I made some good friends and enjoyed many a good laugh and a sing song, in fact I often pulled pints while singing at the same time. I met some really interesting people along the way and had some great conversations many with people who have now gone to their eternal reward. Come along on Saturday February 3rd and raise a glass to the past, the present and the future.

Tidy Towns, Portlaw Musical Society and Awards Night

Bridge News.

The results of the bridge game played on Monday January 15th are as follows:

1st: Kate Hayes and Michael O Donovan

2nd:John Fitzpatrick and Sean Hennessy

3rd:Peggy Murphy and Elizabeth Mooney

4th:Kathleen Collins and Patsy Roche.

GAA Lotto.

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 2, 11, 22 and 26 and there was no jackpot winner. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Catherine O Neill, Senan Cooke and James Barry. The next lotto draw will take place on January 28th and will have a brilliant jackpot of €9,350. Tickets are just €2 each or 3 for €5 and are available from club members and will be on sale at Centra on Saturday January 27th.

Tidy Towns

The AGM of our local tidy towns committee will take place on Friday January 26th at 7.30pm in Ballyduff Community Centre at 7.30pm. New volunteers are needed badly to secure the continuation of this group. If you are interested in helping to keep your community and area clean and tidy please come along to the meeting and show your support. The present committee have been doing a fantastic job and their work needs to be continued to ensure that our area is kept in mint condition.

Ballyduff Soccer Club

Our local soccer club are still on the lookout for a CE worker for the maintenance and upkeep of the grounds. If this is something that may interest you please contact Paddy Kirk on 087-2764883 and he will tell you all about what the job entails.

Kieran Lyons.

We extend our deepest sympathy to the Lyons family on the recent death of Kieran Lyons. Kieran was a native of Portlaw but spent many years living in Kildermody,Kilmeaden. Kierans funeral mass and burial took place to Ballyduff church and we extend our deepest sympathy to all his family and friends. May he rest in peace.

Portlaw Musical Society

Our neighbours in Portlaw are getting ready to stage their 38th production which this year is Sleeping Beauty. This years producer is Damian Walsh who of course runs his stage school Starstruck in Ballyduff community centre. The Panto cast will take to the stage from Thursday February 1st to Saturday February 3rd at 8pm nightly and a matinee performance on Sunday February 4th at 3pm. Tickets cost €12 for adults and €8 for children and will be on sale in Portlaw community centre from January 25th to January 31st from 5pm to 7pm excluding Sunday. Phone booking on 086-0519210 will only be available on January 31st from 3.30pm to 5.30pm. Panto time is always a great night out so pick up a ticket and treat yourself to a great night out and watch out on stage I’m sure you will spot a few familiar faces from the Ballyduff/Kilmeaden areas!

Community Alert.

Our local community alert group held a very informative meeting last week. It was great to see such a big crowd turn up. Two ladies from the college in Waterford gave the meeting a report on an independent study they had carried out in connection with agricultural rural crime. The most common types of crime carried out they told us was theft, vandalism and trespass. Many of these crimes they told us were never reported for different reasons with one of them being that they had no access to a local garda station which is of course a problem in rural areas.

Garda Alan Kissane was also present and informed the group that our local text alert scheme is one of the strongest and most successful schemes in the county. He urged people to take personal pride and responsibility in their property and belongings. If you see something suspicious or something that just doesnt feel right to you then please call your local guard. The Garda station in Kilmacthomas is now a 24 hour station and Garda Kissane has asked me to give you the following numbers so that you can have them ready to use if necessary. The mobile numbers are 086-8581043 or 086 8581044. The number for Kilmac station is 051-295630 and Tramore is 051-391620. Please write down these numbers and keep them by your phone.

The community alert group will meet again on February 20th so watch this space for details.

Awards Night

My family and I travelled to Lawlors Hotel in Dungarvan on Friday January 12th to watch my dad Noel O Sullivan pick up The Jack Furlong Award which is given to someone who has given a lifetime service and committment to the GAA. I may be a little bias but I believe this award was justly deserved. My dad has always been involved with Gaa . He won numerous medals and trophies as goalie for Portlaw for many years and was part of the great Portlaw team of the 70’s who brought great glory days to the club. Daddy picked up the referees whistle 57 years ago and is still refereeing today. He is also very involved in many other aspects of the GAA and if theres a match being played anywhere in the county chances are that you will spot my dad there. Why does he do it I wonder well I would say it is genuinely out of love for the game and the association.

To receive the award on Friday night was indeed a true honour for him and made all the more special because 25 years previous he watched his dad Sonny O Sullivan take the same award. I’m sure grandad was watching from his seat in heaven and was very proud. I think I can speak for my family when I say we too were very proud and enjoyed watching our dad being recognised for his committment and dedication but of course I’m sure I don’t have to tell any of you that behind every good man is a great woman and so my mother Nancy always should be recognised. She has been a GAA widow for many years and made sure the home fires were kept burning, the gear was kept clean and us children were kept in line. Thank you to all the organisers of the awards who gave us a great night to remember.

GAA News.

There will be a meeting on Tuesday January 30th at 7pm in Ballyduff Community Centre for anyone who is interested in becoming a coach for the nursery and academy group of the club. Anyone who is interested in helping out with these amazing and enthusiastic bunch please come along. Coaching courses for anyone interested will begin in February.

It is a big year for the club with the construction of the new ball wall due to commence. The club have received part funding from the Government for this but will be relying on the generosity of the community to help raise the remainder. They wish to thank you all for your continued generosity and support to the club.

School Enrollments, Couch to 5k and Dying to Meet You.

Bridge News.

We welcome back the Portlaw/Ballyduff bridge club after their Christmas break and wish them all a very happy and healthy 2018. Their first game of the New Year was played on January 8th and the results were as follows:

1st: Kathleen Collins and Patsy Roche.

2nd:Sean Hennessy and Nano Fitzgerald.

3rd:Kate Hayes and John Fitzpatrick.

4th:Ann Marie Brown and Mary Prendergast.

Community Alert.

Our local community alert group will hold their first meeting of 2018 on Tuesday January 16th at 8pm in Ballyduff community centre. Guest speakers on the night will be Chief Superintendent Padraig Dunne and Margaret Quinn from Muintir na Tire. The Munster Express will also be present.

The annual €5 charge for the text alert scheme will also be taken up on the night.

I urge you all to attend these community alert meetings which are very informative and are a great opportunity to get to know your locality, your local guards and to voice your worries and opinions about both your own safety and that of your property and belongings.

School Enrolments

Ballyduff N.S are now accepting applications for enrolment in September 2018. If you are interested in sending your child to Ballyduff N.S in September you can pick up an application form from the school office between the hours of 9.20am and 3pm Monday to Friday or contact the school on 051-384414 and they will post a form out to you. All applications are assessed under the criteria outlined in the enrolment policy which can be viewed on the school website www.ballyduffns.com . Parents will be notified of the Board of Managements decision before March 23rd.

Soccer Club News.

New volunteers are needed to coach the U5’s and U6’s teams so if you have a little time to spare and are willing to help out the club would be delighted to hear from you because unless coaches are found they will be unable to run these teams. Additional coaches are also need for the U7,U8 and U9 teams. Soccer experience is not essential as full training and ongoing support will be available. If you are interested please contact one of the managers on training evenings or contact Paddy on 087-2764883

Parent and Toddler

Our local Parent and Toddler group will return from their Christmas break on Friday January 19th. The group meet each Friday from 10am to 12 noon in Ballyduff Community Centre. This is a wonderful way of getting to know people in your area and it is nice to chat and discuss things with other parents. The babies and toddlers get the chance to mix and interact with other children which is so important at that age. I attended this group when my own children were small and it was something I looked forward to each week.

Couch to 5K

Our local marathon queen Sharon Flynn will begin a couch to 5k group on Wednesday January 17th. This proved very popular last year and I have no doubt that it will be the same this year. This group will meet each Wednesday night in the layby just above O Donnachas with runners beginning at 7pm and walkers at 7.30pm so there is a level for everyone. As well as giving her time and experience freely to the group Sharon would also like to give something back to charity and has chosen Temple Street Hospital,so she will simply have a collection bucket with her each night and will ask people to donate €1 or €2 to the cause.

Dying To Meet You

The wait is over and the stage is set as Dawn Players drama group are ready to bring you this years production which is an hilarious comedy called “Dying To Meet You”. A married couple begin to feel a bit bored when all their children have flown the nest so their neighbours suggest that they should rent out their spare room to make a bit of money. Husband and wife go about finding a tenant without discussing it with each other and so the room is let out to a young undertaker and a young Italian girl with very little English. Just to make the story even more interesting throw in an Inspector of Taxes, a mysterious Italian uncle who may have links with the mafia and sure what could possibly go wrong!

The play runs from Wednesday January 17th to Saturday January 20th at 8pm in the school hall of Ballyduff N.S. Tickets are priced at €12 and can be booked on 087-4487648 after 6pm on weekdays. This promises to be a great show with a mixed cast of familiar faces, returning actors and new first timers, so book yourself a ticket and spread the word to all your friends.

Be Mindful.

We have been experiencing some rather cold temperatures lately and so I would ask you all to be mindful of those living in your area who may be old, sick or living alone. A little visit is not much to ask and check that they have enough heat and supplies. We all know how nice and comforting it is to sit in your own warm house when the weather is cold and miserable. I’m sure none of us would like to hear of anyone in our area who was cold or hungry simply because nobody thought of calling to them. I have no doubt that many acts of kindness are being carried out around our area which nobody knows about and I have witnessed many myself so I say keep up the good work because thats what makes our community so special.

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.