GAA Lotto
The numbers drawn in the latest GAA lotto draw were 1, 3, 20 and 21 but there was no lucky winner of the jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Kathleen Cheasty, Michael Walsh and Mairead Whelan. The next draw will take place on August 27th and will have a fantastic jackpot of €8000. Tickets are just €2 or 3 for €5 and are on sale from club members and will be on sale all day outside Centra on Saturday August 26th. All you have to do is choose those four lucky numbers wisely and you could be off on a shopping spree.

Our Sympathy
We extend our deepest sympathy to Tommy Keegan, Stonehouse and John Keegan, Lacka Road on the recent tragic death of their nephew Johnny Fleming who resided in Skough, Carrick-on-Suir. Johnnys removal and funeral mass took place in St.Patricks church, Faugheen and he was laid to rest in the adjoining graveyard. We offer our support and prayers to all the Keegan and Fleming families and we pray that Johnny now enjoys the peace and comfort of Gods heavenly kingdom.

Great Success
The organisers of the 6th annual SE2 sponsored Liz Hayes Memorial Fun Run/Walk would like to thank everyone who came along to take part and also to all who helped them out on the night in any way. They were delighted to welcome Liz’s brother James home for the event and thank him for being on hand to start the race and also present all the individual prizes. 93 runners and 20 walkers took part and a great evening was had by all.
Clothes Collection

If you are having a Summer clear out of those wardrobes and hot presses and wondering what you will do with all those unwanted clothes, bed linen, towels, curtains,shoes, bags, belts and soft toys, well I may have the answer for you. Ballyduff AFC are having a clothes collection to raise much needed funds for the continued development of its club and its members. You can bring your bagged items along to the soccer grounds any evening between Monday and Friday between the hours of 7pm and 8.30pm when training is taking place. If you have items but need them collected just text Jenny on 086-8605930 to arrange collection.

Match Delight
Waterford city and county is buzzing in the build up to the All Ireland Hurling Final on September 3rd when Waterford will meet Galway in Croke Park. The team have treated us to some fine games and have given young and old a real sence of pride and excitement and of course they are lead by a fantastic manager who has put his heart and soul into this team from day one. Of course we here in Kilmeaden are not surprised at his success as he is breathing in Kilmeaden air every day so good things can only happen with that. I urge you all now to decorate your home, area, car, garden in your county colours and be ready to celebrate as just like when the great Tom Cheasty arrived home to Kilmeaden in 1959 with an All Ireland title under his belt, Derek McGrath will arrive back home to Kilmeaden in 2017 having lead his team to victory over Galway.

Rose Of Tralee
Kilmeaden is really on the map in the next few weeks. As we await our All Ireland clash we are also being represented down in Tralee at the Rose Festival. Local man Ger Stephenson from Newtown in Kilmeaden will take on the role of escort for the week. Ger is of course son of John and Joan Stephenson and I know they will watching with great pride. We wish Ger a fantastc time and look forward to spotting him on the telly.

Great Results
Congratulations to all the young people of our parish who received such great results last week in their Leaving Cert results. We hope that they enjoyed their celebrations and we wish them every success in their chosen paths. For any of you who maybe didn’t achieve what you hoped for please remember there are many options for getting to where you want to be so seek advice and remain focused.

Use It or Loose It.

I hope you all remember what I told you last week. In order to keep our local Post Office open we need to increase the number of transactions being carried out there daily. Even though we have many letters of objection and petitions gone in we also need to use our Post Office services as much as possible. The loss of the Post Office would be devastating to our community and the surrounding parishes so let’s show
An Post that our local office should be kept open by using it this week and every week.

Newcastle Mass
Every year we hold a mass in the old cemetery in Newcastle which is situated up in Ardeenlone. This is a beautiful spot and mass is said among the ruins of the old church and the many graves of our ancestors. Many of these graves are unmarked but there are also some tombstones to be read. It is a beautiful place to visit and learn about our history. This years mass will take place on Monday August 21st at 7.30pm and I would urge as many of you as possible to come along. A group will leave Ballyduff church at 6.30pm and walk to Newcastle in memory of all our ancestors who made that weekly walk to mass. If you would like to make that walk just be in Ballyduff for 6.30pm.

Glorious Weddings
We send our heartiest congratulations to Michael Atkins and Debbie Ross who became man and wife in Portlaw church over the Bank Holiday weekend. Following the wedding ceremony the couple treated their guests to a wonderful reception in Kilkenny and of course The Sweep was the place to be the next day where the celebrations continued. We wish the happy couple and their family every happiness in the future.
Portlaw was definetely the place to be for weddings over the Bank Holiday weekend. Also exchanging their vows were Jenny Larkin and LJ Keegan. Jenny is the daughter of Thomas and Mary Larkin and grandaughter of very proud grandparents Dixie and Maureen Larkin in Ballyduff. Following their beautiful ceremony they headed off to The Tower Hotel to wine and dine their guests and dance the night away. We wish Jenny and LJ every happiness in their future lives together.

Birthday Girl
We wish a very happy 60th birthday to Mag Millea, Gortaclode. I know it is hard to believe she is 60 but time flies. As I write these notes I hear that plans are afoot to celebrate in style and I just hope the guests can keep up to the birthday girl on the dance floor. I have seen her in action and they are going to need buckets of energy and stamina. We hope Mag will enjoy this special occasion with all her family and many many friends.

P.O Action Group

You may remember me informing you last week about a community meeting which was being held to discuss the possible closure of Kilmeaden P.O. From that meeting an action group has been formed and An Post will meet with some of this group soon. I have been sent a note from Karen Dobbyn who is Secretary of the Action Group and she has asked me to share the following with you:
As many of you know Kilmeaden is in serious risk of losing vital Post Office services in our community. Kilmeaden Post Office provides services for the Ballyduff, Kilmeaden, Dunhill. Fenor, Kill, Butlerstown and Bonmahon areas. To date over 350 letters of objection and a petition with over 900 signatures have been to An Post by members of the community. The action group are meeting with Pat Cremin, Retail Operations Manager with An Post to try and ensure that Post Office services are maintained in Kilmeaden. It is hoped this meeting will be held by the end of August.
But if we are to retain the post office in Kilmeaden it is critical that the number of transactions going through the office are increased. These numbers are being monitored weekly. Some of the services available at your office are AIB and Ulster bank transactions, TV and Dog licences, Postal Services, Bill payments and budgeting options, savings and investments, insurance, property tax, tolltag.ie, passport, currency, pay fines and many more. We ask everyone to get behind this campaign and use the Post Office service this week and every week. Remember Use It or Loose It!!
If you would like any more information please contact Cllr. John O Leary or Karen Dobbyn on 087-6820473.

GAA Lotto.
The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 6, 11, 21 and 23 and there was no jackpot winner. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Paddy Henebry, Robert O Leary and Aidan Millea. The next lotto draw will take place on August 13th and will have a fantastic jackpot of €7850. Tickets cost just €2 or three for €5 and will be on sale at Centra all day on Saturday August 11th. Choose the four lucky numbers carefully and your luck may be in.

A Little Treasure
We send our heartiest congratulations to Daniel and Olivia Murphy on the recent birth of their beautiful baby son Daniel Anthony. I had the pleasure of meeting this beautiful little man the other day and he is as cute as a button. Of course he was being minded very carefully by big sister Kayla who told me she is a great help to mammy with the baby and I certainly believe that and of course Daniel is a very lucky baby to also have big brother Dylan to teach him all the tricks of the trade. We welcome baby Daniel and wish him a wonderful life.

Word Of Thanks
Fr.Mick has asked me to thank everyone again for their kindness and generosity on the occasion of his Golden Jubilee last month. He continues to get messages of good will and he is very grateful for them all. He remembers you all in his prayers and thanks you sincerely.

Recent Death
We extend our deepest sympathy to Albert Kearns, Tigroe on the recent death of his brother John. John lived in Carrigready, Bonmahon and his funeral mass and burial took place in Kill. We pray that John is now at rest with the Lord and we offer our prayers and sympathy to all his family and friends.

Starstruck Theatre School.
The Starstruck Theatre School will begin their next term on Monday August 14th. All are welcome to come along to Ballyduff Community Centre and check out what it is all about. Boys and Girls aged 5 and 10 years should come along from 5pm and 6pm and those between the ages of 11 and 18 years are welcome from 6pm to 7pm. Under the direction of Damien Walsh this theatre group have treated us to some fantastic productions and the cast and crew always have a great time.

Fun Run/Walk
On Friday August 11th the annual Ballyduff 5 mile Fun Run/Walk will take place in Ballyduff Village with walkers heading off at 6.45pm and the runners off at 7.30pm. Entry is €10 and €5 for students and juniors. West Waterford AC will once again kindly look after the race timing and the great John O Shea will keep everyone entertained with hits from all eras. There will be a fine array of refreshments served in the Ballyduff Community Centre after the race and the presentation of prizes will also take place then. There are cash prizes on offer for all the different age groups and lots of spot prizes also on offer. Come along and enjoy this beautiful scenic route.

Love In The Air
Love is definetely in the air in the Blacknock area with two happy couples celebrating milestone wedding anniversaries. Michael and Marian Murray celebrated 30 years of wedded bliss while their neighbours across the road Jamsie and Renee Power celebrated 60 years of married life. It is wonderful to see happy couples celebrate these great milestones in their lives and still be a picture of happiness. We wish both couples every happiness for the future.

Concert Time
For the past 12 years Fairbrook House have organised a Summer concert in the garden or in the case of rain the venue changes to the museum. This years concert takes place on August 12th and to suit all needs there will be an afternoon concert from 1pm to 3pm and an evening concert from 5pm to 7pm. This years concert features light jazzy and classical songs from Donna Roche in the first half and the gypsy jazz of Paris Swing in the second half. During the interval you can enjoy a glass of bubbles and some nibbles while strolling in the garden or visiting the museum. If you would like some more information please call 051-384657 or 085-8131448 or visit www.fairbrook-house.com

No To Closure.
There was a very large attendance at a public meeting held in Ballyduff Community Centre to voice their concerns to the possible closing of Kilmeaden P.O by An Post. Following the recent resignation of the present Postmaster An Post issued a letter to the office questioning customers about the viabilty of the office and asking customers to send a letter to them stating the amount of business at the office and the implications of having to attend another office would have. These letters of objections had to arrive by post only by August 3rd. At the meeting local councillors and senators each stated how the closure of Kilmeaden P.O must not be allowed to happen and also urged everyone to use their local office to its full potential. Letters were signed by all there and a representative group was chosen to meet with An Post after August 14th. A letter has also been sent in by the new leaseholder of Centra who has applied for the position of Postmaster of Kilmeaden P.O and intends to build and enhance both Centra and the Post Office. I will keep you all informed through these notes about how things are progressing but in the meantime you can help by using your local P.O and making sure that An Post see that it is a vital service in our area that we will not allow it be taken from us.

Summer Concert
For the past 12 years Fairbrook House in Kilmeaden have hosted a Summer concert in the garden or if the weather is unfavourable it is held in the museum.This years concert goes ahead on August 12th. To suit the needs of the audience an afternoon concert is held from 1pm to 3pm and an evening concert from 5pm to 7pm. This years programme will include the light jazzy and classical songs of Donna Roche while the second half of the concert will feature the gypsy jazz of Paris Swing. During the interval you can enjoy a glass of bubbly and some nibbles while you stroll through the garden and view the museum. For more information please contact 051-384657, 085-8131448 or visit www.fairbrook-house.com

Boost For Charity
The very hardworking committee of The Swan Lodge and Classic Vintage Club were delighted to hand over a cheque to Dermot and Owen who were representing The Touching Hearts Charity on Monday July 24th for a whopping €25,372.94. This fantastic amount was raised recently at the annual Mick Kirwan Memorial Vintage Run. The committee have asked me to say thank you to a few people on their behalf. Firstly they would like to thank everyone who participated on the day and all who came along to support. A big thank you to all who donated prizes for the raffle and auction and all who gave private donations. A massive thank you to all the huge band of volunteers who gave their time to make the day such a success. A huge thank you to the Queally Family for the use of their premises over the past few years, without their generosity it would not be possible to hold the event.
May I now on your behalf say a big well done to a brilliant committee who put tremendous time and effort into organising this event and raising such a brilliant amount of money. Your kindness and dedication is greatly appreciated.

Ballyduff’s 5 Mile Run/Walk
The annual Liz Hayes Memorial Fun Run/Walk is getting close and I have met many runners and walkers out getting their training in. Friday August 11th is the date set with walkers heading off from Ballyduff at 6.45pm and the runners off at 7.30pm. Entry is €10 or €5 for students and juniors. There are many cash prizes on offer and lots of spot prizes on offer too. The first male and female home will also have the honour of lifting the Liz Hayes trophy. As usual West Waterford AC will look after the race timings. The famous John O Shea has been flown in by with great expense to keep you motivated and entertained with his brilliant array of music. There will also be a fine array of refreshments available after the run/walk in Ballyduff Community Centre and the presentation of prizes will also take place there.

Ballyduff AFC
As always our local soccer club is a hive of activity. They are presently holding a clothes collection so clear out those wardrobes and hot presses. All proceeds will go towards purchasing jerseys for the under age academy.
The recent Summer Camp proved so popular that they are holding another one. This camp will run from August 14th to August 18th. To reserve your place leave a message on 087-2764883.

Weddings Galore
We extend our heartiest congratulations to Paul Leahy, Blacknock and his beautiful bride Rachel on their recent marriage. A large crowd of family and friends travelled Scottish side to help the happy couple celebrate their special day and I know now they are all back home now with Paul and Rachel with them to celebrate Kilmeaden style. We wish the happy couple many years of happiness together.
Many congratulations also go to David Walsh who married his sweetheart Ellenor Upton recently. David lived some of his younger years on Ballyduff Hill and is the grandson of Peggy O Shea. David and Ellenor exchanged their vows in The Sacred Heart church and then it was on to The Haven Hotel, Dunmore for the celebrations. I know that everyone had a fabulous day and weekend and we hope this happy couple enjoy a lifetime of happiness.

Newcastle Mass

The annual graveyard mass in Newcastle cemetery will take place on Monday August 21st at 7.30pm. Many of our ancestors are buried in this graveyard and so we need to keep the tradition of this mass going so that these people do not become forgotten. The usual Faith Walk will leave Ballyduff church at 6.30pm walking to Newcastle in memory of all those people who walked to mass each week.

GAA Lotto.
The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 1, 4, 7 and 17 and there was no jackpot winner. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Rachael Meaney, Mary Mulhall and David Power. The next draw will take place on July 30th and there will be a fantastic jackpot of €7,700. Tickets cost just €2 or 3 for €5 and will be on sale on Saturday July 29th at Centra.

Marriage Celebrations.
Love is certainly in the air as two local couples celebrate wedding anniversaries. Billy and Noreen Tubbritt recently celebrated 50 years of wedded bliss. Any of you who know this lovely couple will know that they are indeed a match made in heaven and are cerainly a fabulous example to all. The happy couple celebrated with a lovely meal with their beloved family and a great night was had. We wish them both every happiness in the future.
Local couple Alan and Jenny Dempsey , Amberhill celebrated 25 years of marriage in recent days too. They celebrated in style I heard tales of jacuzzis and champagne. We hope they both enjoyed their celebrations and that they will enjoy many more years of good health and happiness.

Charity Day.
On Saturday July 29th, Fairbrook House and Gardens in Kilmeaden will host an open day with all proceeds going to the local Waterford and Lismore Branch of The Irish Guide Dogs. This is an unique opportunity to visit these beautiful gardens with its atmosphere of mystery and wonder. Laid out among the ruins of the former Fairbrook mill it is an ideal place to sit on the terraces and enjoy a cuppa. Unfortunately the gardens are not accessible to wheelchairs, buggies and walking frames and no dogs are allowed except for guide dogs.
The gardens will open from 2pm to 5pm. Admission is €5 or €10 for a family. Children under 12 go free and remember all proceeds go to the local branch of the Irish Guide Dogs.

Tractor Run
The Kilmeaden Vintage Tractor Club held their 10th annual tractor run on Sunday July 16th. They really pulled out all the stops to make their 10th year a memorial run. Almost 100 tractors took part and then it was back to Haughtons for entertainment for all the family. The Birds Of Prey and Old Time Threshing kept young and old enthralled and the enticing smell of the barbeque had everyone queuing up for some of the delicious food. Of course the day was really topped off by the glorious sunshine and Haughtons was the perfect venue to sit out and enjoy the sounds of our very own Mr.Sunshine, the great John O Shea. It really was a most enjoyable day and great credit must go to the organising committee who stage this event each year in aid of The Solas Centre. They have raised a lot of vital funding over the years for this service which is of utmost importance not only to sufferers of cancer but to their families too.

Recent Deaths
We extend our deepest sympathies to Eamonn Reade, Cullinagh on the recent death of his beloved mother Eileen. Eileen resided in the family home in Kingsmeadow all her life but spent the last few years of her life in Maypark Nursing Home where she was very happy. Eileens funeral mass took place in St.Pauls church. May she rest in peace.
Our area was numbed with grief upon hearing of the death of Helen Raher, Carrickphilip especially as it so soon after the death of her beloved son Michael. We can only offer our prayers and comfort to all the Raher family as they try to come to terms with such great loss. We know that just as in life Helen and Michael will take care of each other. May they rest in peace.
Fun Run/Walk
A reminder that Friday August 11th is the date set for the annual 5 mile Liz Hayes memorial fun run/walk. Walkers will set off from Ballyduff Village at 6.45pm while the runners will get going at 7.30pm. Entry is €10 and €5 for students and juniors. West Waterford AC will once again kindly look after the race timing and our own John O Shea will keep everyone motivated and entertained with a great selection of music. Following the run/walk there will be a fine display of refreshments on offer back at the community centre before the prize giving takes place.

Annual Fun Run/Walk
The Liz(Eilis) Hayes Memorial 5 mile run/walk will take place this year on Friday August 11th. Beginning in Ballyduff Village the walkers will head off at 6.45pm and the runners will be off at 7.30pm. Entry will be €10 and €5 for students and juniors. There will be cash prizes on offer for the first three males and females home and also for the first male and female home in the Over 40’s and 50’s section.Prizes will also be presented to the first male and female junior home and lots of spot prizes on offer along the way too. The first male and female home will also have the honour of lifting the Liz Hayes Memorial Trophy.
The good people at West Waterford AC will once again look after the race timings. John O Shea will be on hand to provide musical entertainment and after the race there will be the usual vast array of refreshments on offer back at the community centre before the presentation of prizes.
This annual community event is held in memory of Liz Hayes a lady whose whole life revolved around helping her community so in her honour come out and support this event. Even if you are unable to take part, cheerleaders are always wanted.

Newcastle Mass
The annual graveyard mass in Newcastle cemetery will take place on Monday August 21st at 7.30pm. Many of our ancestors are buried in this cemetery and it is a beautiful spot to visit. There will be the usual faith walk to the mass which will leave from Ballyduff church at 6.30pm and walk to Newcastle graveyard in memory of our ancestors who walked to mass each week.

Golf Classic

A reminder that Ballyduff AFC will host a golf classic in Waterford Golf Club on July 21st and 22nd. A team of four costs €120 which includes a meal. Teams who entered last year will be allocated the same tee times. If you would like some more information please contact Paddy on 087-2764883 or Noel on 086-3766541.

Recent Bereavements
We extend our deepest sympathies to the Nolan Family, Ballyduff Village on the recent death of their beloved sister Mary. Mary Roberts was brought home from Wales to be laid to rest in her native place, in fact in the field where she used to play as a young girl. Her family made sure everything was in place for a beautiful mass and burial. We hope that the family can draw peace from the knowledge that she is now at peace,home where she wanted to be. May the gentle soil of Ballyduff lay on her and may she now enjoy the beauty and splendour of Gods kingdom.
We also offer our sincere sympathy also to Aedin Foran, Ballyduff Village on the recent death of her mother. Maire Eachthigheirn lived in Newrath and her funeral mass and burial took place in Ferybank. We hope that her family will find comfort in the coming months in the wonderful memories they have. Ar Dheis De Go Raibh Si.

Help Needed
Ballyduff AFC have made great strides in recent years in girls football. They would really like to build on this and would like to enter an Under 14 team next season. To do this however they need help, at least two people are needed to run the team and they will be given every assistance possible from the club. If this is something that you think you can help with please contact Paddy on 087-2764883. Watching the younger teams on the way up there is plenty of talent around and so it would be a shame to see that talent wasted, so if you can help please contact Paddy.

Your Notes
If you want to let people know about what is going on within your club or organisation or indeed have a happy occasion to share please contact me and we can do this through these weekly notes. Remember that for a lot of people the weekly notes may be their only contact with community life and these notes are uploaded each week to our parish website which is viewed by many parishioners now living elsewhere. If you would like me to include an item for you please contact me Linda Spillane on 087-9838392, spillanelinda2017@gmail.com or indeed drop into me or give me a shout if you see me out and about.

Graveyard Mass.

Our annual graveyard mass took place last Wednesday evening and thank God the weather was kind to us. It was great to see such crowds come together to remember all those buried in our graveyard. A big thank you to all who helped arrange the mass and all those who took part in it. A great crowd visited our community centre after the mass and enjoyed a cuppa and some lovely refreshments. It was a fantastic opportunity for people to enjoy a chat with people they hadn’t seen in a while. May I personally thank all the people who baked and donated cakes, buns and biscuits and a huge thank you to the wonderful group of ladies who helped me set up the hall, serve the teas and food and clean up after. This was another great community effort.

GAA Lotto
The four lucky numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 2, 12, 13 and 18 but there was no winner of he jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Carmel Lynch, Nano Fitzgerald and Seamus Connolly. The next lotto draw will take place on July 16th and will have a staggering jackpot of €7,550. Tickets cost just €2 or 3 for €5 and will be on sale at Centra on Saturday July 15th. Choose those four numbers very carefully and you could be booking that holiday or off on that spending spree.

Bridge News.

The Ballyduff/Portlaw bridge club had their Summer party last Monday night by having a lovely meal at the Sweep Bar and Restaurant. Folowing the meal they played their weekly game of bridge and the results are as follows:
1st: Anna Harney and Peggy Murphy
2nd: Mary O Brien and Ann Tobin.
3rd: Ann Marie Brown and Barbara Cunningham
4th: Kate Hayes and Mary Kennedy.
5th: Breda Cowman and Celia Nugent.
6th: Margaret White and Elizabeth Mooney.

Newcastle Mass.

The annual cemetery mass in Newcastle graveyard will be celebrated on Monday August 21st at 7.30pm. I will have more details for you in the coming weeks but mark the date in your diary and spread the word.

Tractor Run.
The annual tractor run hosted by Kilmeaden Vintage Tractor club is always a much looked forward to event. This year is the 10th year of this and a great day is planned to celebrate this milestone. On Sunday July 16th at 1.30pm sharp the tractor run will depart from Haughtons and will head off on a shorter than normal route within the parish of Ballyduff. On their return to Haughtons the celebrations will begin. Well known D.J supreme John O Shea will entertain the crowds with music for all ages. The Mayfield Birds of Prey will also be on display and displays of old time threshing will keep you enthralled. You are bound to work up an appetite with all this going on but don’t worry the barbeque will me fired up and I have no doubt that Gerry and Margaret will help you find something to wash it down with to! This promises to be a great day and there will be lots to keep young and old happy. If you would like to take part or need more information, the man with all the knowledge is Pat Fitzgerald and you can reach him on 087-2216589.
Of course not only is this day about having fun it also raises money for a very important charity, The Solas Centre. You don’t need me to tell you about the vital and important services The Solas Centre provides and like all good charities they rely mostly on the generosity of others to keep these services running. The tractor run has raised €43,000 over the past 9 years for the centre so please be as generous as possible to the collectors on the day. Hope to see you all there.

Golf Classic
Ballyduff AFC will host a golf classic in Waterford Golf Club on July 21st and 22nd . A team of 4 will cost €120 including a meal. Teams who entered last year will be allocated the same tee times. If you are interested in entering a team or finding out more information please contact Paddy on 087-2764883 or Noel on 086-3766541.

Bridge News
The Ballyduff/Portlaw Bridge Club held their latest game on June 26th and the results were:

1st: Patsy Roche and Kathleen Collins.
2nd: William and Ann Tobin.
3rd: Anne Cox and Mary O Brien.
4th: Sean Hennessy and Kate Hayes.

Graveyard Mass.
Our annual graveyard mass will take place this Wednesday July 5th at 7.30pm. Please spread the word to people outside of the parish who may have relatives or friends buried in the graveyard. Please remember if you are tidying up your family grave, could you bring home any rubbish or old flowers. With everyone working together that is how we keep our graveyard looking so well.
Following the mass there will be a cuppa and some refreshmentsfor everyone in the community centre and all are welcome to come along and meet old friends and new. If you would like to donate some buns or a cake for this occasion please contact me Linda Spillane on 087-9838392.

Schools Out For Summer
The pupils and staff of Ballyduff N.S began their school holidays on Wednesday last and we wish each and every one of them a very happy and safe Summer. I attended their final assembly of the year and it was lovely to see 20+ children receive their full attendance certs, there was also presentation of medals for the basketball team and the hurlers. All the members of 4th class also received individual cert for taking part in the write a book project. Of course we say a big good luck to our 6th class pupils who now head off to their chosen secondary school and we know that they will do themselves and their school proud. They each received a red hoodie with the names of their class mates printed on it which they took pride in wearing. It is hard to believe that another school year has passed and we look forward to a nice relaxing and hopefully hot Summer.

Tidy Towns
Our Tidy Towns committee are doing a fabulous job around Ballyduff and Kilmeaden. Grass areas are kept clean and cut, flowers are planted and rubbish is picked. If you think you would like to get involved and give a little time to your community please come along to the next tidy towns meeting which will be held on Thursday July 6th at 7.30pm in the community centre.

Fundraiser For Hospice.

Tricia Shannon would like to say a huge thank you on behalf of The Hospice to all who supported her recent bucket collection at Centra on Friday June 23rd. €1068.03 was collected locally at Centra and then along with two other members of Walking Waterford and Beyond walking club they raised a whopping €2581.51 by walking the Waterford Viking Marathon. Tricia completed the marathon in 6 hours 15 mins. A big thank you again to all who supported this cause.

Youth Drama
Ballyduff Youth Drama are pleased to announce that they will stage another production for 2018. Rehearsals will begin in September and end in early February. The group caters for children from 5th and 6th class and they dont need to be from Ballyduff N.S ,all are welcome from the area and surrounding areas. Places are limited so if your child is interested or you need further information please contact Helen on 087-6493657.

Tractor Run.
It’s hard to believe that it is July already and so it is almost time for the much looked forward to Tractor Run hosted annually by The Kilmeaden Vintage Club. Can you believe that this is the 10th year of the run and the club are planning to celebrate in style. The run will take place this year on Sunday July 16th and will leave from Haughtons taking in a shorter route this year within the parish of Ballyduff. The run is not just for vintage tractors but new tractors are also welcome. At the finish line back at Haughtons there will be fun for all the family with old time threshing and The Mayfield Birds of Prey and of course the usual delicious barbeque. WLR’s John O Shea will be there to keep everyone entertained.
As usual all proceeds will go to The Solas Centre who are always sograteful for the support they receive. In the past 9 years the tractor run has raised over €43,000 for The Solas Centre so if you would like to know more please contact Pat Fitzgerald on 087-221658.

Lourdes Fundraising
Our local Lourdes fundraising committee have asked me to say a huge thank you to all who supported their recent raffle and talent night. They were delighted with the response they received. Thank you also to Bobby and Noreen at Centra in Kilmeaden for allowing them to sell raffle tickets at the shop and to the volunteers who sold them. The winners in the raffle were John Fitzgerald,Hillary Sullivan, Colette Murphy, Belinda Kearns, Stephen Prout and John Aulsberry.
It was off to O Donnachas then on Saturday night and a big thank you to Seamus and Michelle Dunphy who happily support this cause every year. Thank you to all the singers on the night and to Dick Quinn for providing musical backing. Declan Ryan was the worthy winner on the night and took home the Jimmy Fox Memorial Cup.
A fantastic amount of €1000 was raised altogether and the committee thank all who supported, donated spot prizes and all who helped in any way. It is wonderful to be able to keep up the tradition of sending people from the parish to Lourdes each year and this is made possible by your generosity.

Youth Drama
Ballyduff Youth Drama are delighted to announce that they will stage another production in February 2018. This group caters for children in 5th and 6th classes and they do not have to be students of Ballyduff N.S. Children from surrounding areas are welcome also. Rehearsals will begin on Monday September 4th and end in early February from 7.15pm to 8.45pm every Monday night in Ballyduff Community Centre. If your child is interested then please contact Helen Millea on 087-6493657 as soon as possible as numbers are limited.

School Success.
Waterford Teachers centre recently launched a beautiful book about the history and heritage of our schools. National schools were invited to take part and in Ballyduff N.S Mr. John Carey and the pupils of 4th class rose to the challenge. They did fantastic work all about hedge schools and former past pupil the great Tom Cheasty. They also submitted some brilliant photos of times gone by, even one of that famous All Ireland medal.
On Tuesday evening last Adam Spillane, Michael Kelly and Alex Walsh represented their class with Mr.Carey in the Woodlands Hotel for the official launch of the book. Launching the book was local author John Burke. John and his daughter Cathy are the brains behind the books Irelandopedia and Historopedia and the boys who are big fans were delighted to meet him. The boys brought home a framed class certificate for the classroom and individual certs will be presented to all the class at assembly next week. Well done again to 4th class and Mr.Carey.

Sacristans Collection.

I don’t have to point out to any of you what a wonderful job our church sacristan Ann Nolan does. Nothing is a problem to her. She not only has the talents of organisation and hard work but she also has that lovely friendly personality which is welcoming both to parishioners and starngers.
We get a chance next weekend to show a little bit of gratitude when the annual sacristans collection will be taken up at the weekend masses on July 1st and 2nd. Please be as generous as possible.

GAA Lotto
The numbers drawn in the last lotto draw were 5, 18, 19 and 23. There was no winner of the jackpot and the three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Emma Hogan, Tony Kirk and Giretti Murphy. The next draw will take place on July 2nd and will have a jackpot of €7400.

Graveyard Mass.
Our annual graveyard mass in Ballyduff will take place on Wednesday July 5th at 7.30pm. Please spread the word to anyone you know living outside the parish who have friends or relatives buried in our graveyard. As always we ask you if you are tidying up your loved ones graves please bring any old flowers and rubbish home with you.
Following the graveyard mass we will have a nice friendly cuppa and light refreshments in our community hall and we hope everyone will pop in. If you would like to provide some home baking or biscuits for the night please let me Linda Spillane know on 087-9838392.

Bridge News
The results of the bridge game played on 19th of June are as follows:

1st: Geraldine McMahon and Peggy Murphy.
2nd:Eileen Kirwan and Theresa Phelan.
3rd: Kate Hayes and Nano Fitzgerald
4th Breda O Donnell and Noreen Tubbritt

Walk and Talk
Congratulations to all the participants in the recent Walk and Talk sponsored walk along the Greenway which was organised by the academy and nursery section of Ballyduff GAA club. It was a sight to behold to see all the walkers making their way towards Kildermody. A big thank you to all the participants, promoters and supporters for making this a great success. Special thanks to Donal Daly for sponsoring water and lollipops along the route and to the great Margaret and Gerry at Haughtons for putting on such a huge spread of food for the hungry walkers on their return. Please remember that all all sponsorship cards must be returned whether they are empty or full so that a final amount can be announced.

School News

The annual school sports took place recently and the weather was very kind to us. All the children had great fun running their races and playing games. There were lots of stalls for the adults to browse around and of course the tasty smell coming from the bbq would make anyone feel hungry. A lot of organising goes into this event not only from the staff of the school but the parents council and their group of volunteers do a tremendous amount of work before and during the event. I have been asked to say a huge thank you to all who supported the event and to the following sponsors, Living Colours(The Foley Family) Frank Murphy Hurleys, Boots Pharmacy Tramore, Mulligans Pharmacies Waterford, McDonalds in John Roberts Square, Centra Kilmeaden, Gala Kilmeaden, The Book Centre, Alfie Hales new premises in Michael Street and John Laffan Electrical.
The Summer school holidays will begin on Wednesday June 28th and we wish all the staff and students a happy and safe Summer.

Golden Jubilee.
On Friday June 9th we all gathered in Ballyduff Church to celebrate with our Parish Priest Fr.Michael O Byrne the occasion of his Golden Jubilee. 50 years ago Fr.Mick headed off to Maynooth to pledge his service to God and his people. In a beautiful and humourous sermon Fr.Mick brought us on a journey of his priesthood and told us tales and memories of the many parishes he has served in. He came to us here in Ballyduff and Portlaw 23 years ago and we quickly became friends and I am happy to say we haven’t fallen out yet and I count him among one of my best friends. At the beginning of the mass some symbols were brought forward depicting not only his dedication to the service but also the hobbies he enjoys. A class photo of all the men who entered Maynooth with him, the three different coloured stoles which the priest wears throughout the year, his bridge cards and scoresheet showing his love for his weekly bridge game, a play script showing his long running association with drama as both actor and director and lastly a novel showing his great interest in reading. He has often been known to read 20 novels while on holidays especially detective stories and thrillers. The readings were read by Fr.Micks nieces and the prayers of the faithful and offertory gifts were all performed by people with some connection to Fr. Mick. Throughout the mass our local choir sang Fr.Micks favourite hymns beautifully and we have heard nothing but praise back about the choir from visitors on the night from other areas. The ceremony was really lovely and was just how he wanted it, simple and prayerful. Many thanks to all who played any part throughout the mass, the many priests, servers, our wonderful sacristan and her assistants, readers, gift bearers, church cleaners, flower arrangers,choir and all other volunteers.
It was then off over to the school hall for some tea, coffee and spectacular food provided by the great Liam Fogarty. Local lady Annette Atkins made a fantastic cake which was enjoyed by many. A big well done to the members of the Parish council, hall committee,parents council and the many other volunteers who set up, served and cleaned up. The whole occasion went off without a hitch and that happens when you live in a great community. There was a wonderful heartwarming feeling being part of it all and the smile on Fr.Micks face made everything worthwhile. When I arrived home I was trying to think of a descriptive word to sum up how I was feeling and then I received a text from a fellow parishioner and friend and she hit the nail on the head when she used the word “closeness” and that was the word I was searching for. A closeness to God and a closeness to community, thats how it felt.
Fr.Mick has asked me to say a huge thank you for all who gave him cards, gifts, good wishes and prayers. He really appreciates all of these things and will remember you all in his prayers.

Graveyard Mass.
Our annual graveyard mass will take place on Wednesday July 5th at 7.30pm. Please spread the word to anyone you know outside the parish who may have a relative or friend buried here. Following the mass we will have a cuppa and refreshments in the community centre. Another date for your diary is the annual Newcastle mass which will take place on Monday August 21st at 7.30pm.

Bridge News
The results of the latest bridge game played on Monday June 12th were:

1st: Peggy Murphy and Elizabeth Mooney.
2nd: Patsy Roche and Kathleen Collins.
3rd: Kate Hayes and Michael O Donovan.
4th: Anna Marie Brown and Theresa Phelan.

Help Needed

I dont have to tell any of you about the wonderful work which is being done by our tidy towns group. Recently some of them decided to tackle the long grass which is now growing up around the outside of our playground. Our council tell us that due to holidays they do not have the staff to do this work. A group will meet down there again on Thursday night 22nd at 7.30pm and are asking people for help. If you are a parent or guardian of children who like to visit the lovely playground then maybe you could spare an hour or two. Bring along your rakes etc and remember many hands make light work.

Items of Interest
If you would like me to include an item of interest in these notes please contact me by a Thursday evening of each week and I would be delighted to include it. You can text or call me on 087-9838392 or drop me an email on spillanelinda2017@gmail.com.