GAA Academy.

Ballyduff GAA Nursery and Academy are back and training takes place every Saturday at 10.30am and on Wednesdays at 6.15pm. Tom Cheasty Park in Kildermody is the venue and all boys and girls aged 4 to 10 years interested in playing football and hurling are welcome to come along. Bring your children along to learn the skills of the game and get lots of excercise in a safe and friendly environment with fully trained and Garda vetted coaches. If you would like any more information please contact Brian on 087-2486423 or Rory on 086-6012394.

Bridge News.

The Portlaw/Ballyduff Bridge Club held their President Day on Sunday March 26th and the results were as follows:
1st: Patsy Roche and Nano Fitzgerald.
2nd: Monica Sullivan and Eileen Kirwan.
3rd: Peggy Murphy and Celia Nugent.
4th: Bridget Ahearne and Geraldine McMahon
5th: Kathleen Collins and Theresa Phelan.
6th: Mary Kennedy and Aileen Stephenson.

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 11,12,16 and 21 but there was no winner of the jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Maurice Doyle, Eileen O Leary and Pakie Ryan. The next draw will take place on April 9th and will have a jackpot of €6,500. Tickets are just €2 each or 3 for €5 and will be on sale outside Centra all day on April 8th. Choose those four numbers carefully and it could be you.

Theatre Night.

I had the pleasure last weekend of attending the Singer/Songwriter festival in the Gealach Gorm Theatre in Kill. This theatre is a little hidden gem nestled in the beautiful village of Kill. I really fell in love with the place and the somewhat intimate nature of the place.
The festival itself was so entertaining and we were treated to a night of fabulous talent. Special guest on the night was Ballyduffs own Karan Casey who was outstanding. This really was a most enjoyable experience and great praise must go to Angela Mulcahy for giving us such a fantastic venue where we can experience such talent. We simply had to drive just a few miles to listen to some of the best original music I had heard in a long time. Keep a look out for some more brilliant upcoming events and treat yourself to The Gealach Gorm experience.

Adoration.

When life gets us down or we have a particular worry or problem on our minds often talking to a good friend can be the solution. There are many different ways of coping with problems and many people who will claim to be able to solve it all for you for just a small fee. Another option is to sit and share some quiet time with the Lord. Our parish has begun the special practice of Adoration of the Blessed Eucharist every Tuesday from 12 noon until 7pm. Drop in and take a rest from the busy world that we live in, you can stay for 10 minutes, an hour, two hours it is totally up to you. Sometimes sitting alone with your thoughts can be exactly what we need. Let the Lord be your friend.

Wedding Bells.

We wish heartiest congratulations to Claire Flynn, Adamstown who recently announced her engagement to Willie Gough. We wish the happy couple the very best in their future lives together and hope that they will have a wonderful future.

Charity Cycle.

As I mentioned to you before sme kindhearted guys and gals from Portlaw and Kilmeaden will take on a 500 km cycle at the end of April in aid of Crumlin Hospital and Portlaw Red Cross. These guys and gals are all members of The Portlaw Village Wheelers and will take on the Munster Airport Challenge over the course of 3 days. They are training hard at the moment and are delighted with the sponsorship and donations that are coming in. If you would like to make a contribution as a business or an individual I have sponsorship cards as my husband Brian is one of the guys heading off. You can get me on 087-9838392 or stop me if you see me out and about.

Notes.

If you would like to include any item in these notes please don’t hesitate to contact me Linda Spillane on 087-9838392 or spillanelinda@eircom.net

Precious Gift.

We send our heartiest congratulations to Edel O Keeffe and her partner Jimmy on the birth of their beautiful baby boy. Baby Alex has brought great joy to both families and I know that Nanny and Grandad Christy and Vera will be proudly showing him off around Ballyduff. We wish Edel, Jimmy and Alex every happiness and look forward to meeting Alex.

Bridge News.

The results of the latest bridge game played on March 20th were as follows:
1st: Michael O Donovan and Mary Cummins
2nd: Breda Cowman and Mary Kennedy.
3rd: Ann Cox and Geraldine McMahon.

Reconciliation Service.

Lent is a time for a spiritual Spring clean and so with that in mind there will be a reconciliation service with individual absolution during masses in Ballyduff on Saturday April 1st and Sunday April 2nd. This is an ideal opportunity to prepare ourselves for Easter.

Wedding Bells

Warmest congratulations to popular local couple Declan Finn and Breda Jones, Lacka Road who recently celebrated their wedding. A lovely day was had by all and we wish this lovely couple every happiness in the world.

Community Alert.

As we all know our local community alert have really brought a great sence of togetherness into our community. The text alert scheme which has been in operation for some time is now being rolled out into several other areas. This text scheme gives great peace of mind to people and has helped to solve many crimes.
The next meeting of this group will take place next Tuesday night March 28th at 8pm in Ballyduff Community Centre. It would be lovely to see some new faces at the meeting. You are asked for nothing in return just your attendance at a few meetings a year. This meeting will be your final chance to pay the €5 yearly text alert fee so please bring it along to the meeting.

Fashion Show

Ballyduffs Belles and Beaus Fashion Show will take place on Saturday April 1st at 8pm in the school hall of Ballyduff N.S. Our local models from all walks of life will strut their stuff on the catwalk in clothes from stores and boutiques in Waterford City and Dungarvan. Tickets cost just €15 and are available by contacting Marie on 089-4348844. The cost of your ticket includes a complimentary glass of wine, a fabulous goody bag and the chance to win a fantastic door prize. The Best Dressed Lady on the night will also win a prize. Raffle tickets will be on sale for some wonderful prizes. This promises to be a great night of style and fun so book your ticket today.
Tidy Towns.

Our local Tidy Towns group are doing tremendous work around the parish and we all greatly appreciate their work. They will hold a fundraising raffle for a fabulous Easter hamper containing a brilliant mix of goodies. Tickets will be on sale all day Friday March 31st outside Centra so please support this hardworking group and you may be the lucky winner.

Coffee Morning

The Waterford and South Kilkenny branch of Down Syndrome Ireland are delighted to be named as the charity benefiting from the Waterford Viking Marathon this year. To kick off the fundraising they held a coffee morning last Monday in O Donnachas, Kilmeaden. I have been to many coffee mornings in my time but I have never seen such a turnout. The people kept coming and a big well done to Seamus and Michelle Dunphy and their fantastic staff who made sure everyone was looked after and received a warm welcome. A huge thank you to all the the many sponsors for the day and all who donated raffle prizes and to all who donated to the cause. If you fancy taking part in some part of this years marathon please consider doing so for this group. You can sign up on WWW.DSIWATERFORD.IE

Bridge News.

The results of the last two bridge games played by the Ballyduff/Portlaw are as follows:

March 6th.

1st: Joan Hartrey and Geraldine McMahon.
2nd: Mary Prendergast and Ann Marie Brown.
3rd: Sean Hennessy and Nano Fitzgerald.
4th: Bridget Ahearne and Maria Kiersey.

March 13th.

1st: Breda Murphy and Kathleen Collins.
2nd: Breda Cowman and Ann Tomintoul.
3rd: Catherine Power and Bertha O Connor.
4th: Kate Hayes and Michael Donovan.

GAA Lotto.

The numbers drawn in the recent GAA lotto draw were 6, 10, 18 and 26. There was no winner of the jackpot but the three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Annie Gahan, Jim Foley and Gavin O Rourke. The next draw will take place on Mothers Day March 26th, just imagine the brownie points you could get yourself if you bought your mother a ticket and she won the jackpot of €6,350. Tickets cost just €2 each or 3 for €5. You can purchase a ticket at Centra on Saturday March 25th when sellers will be there all day.

Booking of Masses.

Bookings for anniversary masses for the months of April, May and June have now been taken so if you missed it or forgot about it please contact Linda Spillane 087-9838392 and she will look after you.

Hard Times.

I was speaking to Johnny Mackey, Matthews Cross proprietor of “Hard Times” and he has asked me to let you know that he will be out of action for a number of weeks due to health reasons and so will not be available for work. He will however be taking work related calls during business hours on 087-2681157. Johnny really values all his customers and looks forward to meeting you all when he is fully recovered. I am sure I speak for you all when I say that we wish Johnny the very best of luck and a speedy recovery and he better not take too long because I know a little man named Ronan who has the overalls and is ready to go!!

Fashion Show

Have you booked your ticket yet for the much looked forward to Belles and Beaus Fashion show which will take place on Saturday April 1st in the school hall of Ballyduff N.S. For just €15 you will receive a complimentary glass of wine, a fabulous goody bag full of lots of nice treats and the chance to win a fantastic door prize. There will also be a lovely prize for the best dressed lady on the night.
Our models will be very familiar to you perhaps even be related to you or a neighbour of yours and they will take to the catwalk modelling beautiful outfits from stores and boutiques in Waterford and Dungarvan. Many of the models have turned down catwalk work in Milan and Paris so that they can take part in this fashion show so make sure you book your ticket early. You can book that ticket by contacting Marie who is unable to model due to an old wrestling injury. You can reach her on 089-4348844.

Community Alert

Our local community alert group will host their next meeting on Tuesday March 28th in Ballyduff Community Centre at 8pm and this will also be the final date for collection of the €5 text alert scheme. All are welcome to attend this meeting.

Bridge Notes.

The Ballyduff/Portlaw bridge club played their latest bridge game on Monday February 20th and the results were as follows:
1st: Bertha O Connor and Mary Prendergast.
2nd: Nano Fitzgerald and Kate Hayes.
3rd: Patsy Roche and Geraldine McMahon.
4th: Ann Cox and Mary O Brien.

Grease Time.

Ballyduff Youth Drama recently took to the stage with their production of Grease and what a spectacular production we were treated to . This group comprises of young people from 5th and 6th classes and is run voluntarily by some parents. Each year this group amazes their audiences with their acting and musical talents. Each young person gave 150% to their role and the quality of singing and dancing was very high indeed. Grease gave us that perfect mix of song, dance and comedy. The set, costumes and props were spot on and the group should be very proud of themselves. I am not going to start naming names in thanking people because I surely would forget someone so I simply issue a huge well done and congratulations to anybody who had any involvement and thank them for giving us a great night of entertainment.

Spring Stations.

The Spring station masses are continuing and the mass for Raheen and Amberhill will be held on Tuesday February 28th in Ballyduff church at 7.30pm. The mass for Ballyduff Village, Ballyduff Hill and Ballyduff West will take place on Friday March 3rd at 7.30pm in Ballyduff Church. Mass for Adamstown, Ballyduff East and Matthews Cross will be held in the home of Mary and Jimmy Power on Friday March 10th at 8pm and on Tuesday March 14th the mass for Newtown, Cullinagh and Gortaclode will be in the home of Paul and Helen Millea at 8pm.

Fashion Show.

It’s all steam ahead for Ballyduffs Belles and Beaus Fashion Show which will take place on April 1st. Boutiques and stores are choosing their finest fashion to put on show. Models are practicing with their stillettoes and your goody bags are being filled with lots of nice treats. Start getting your crowd in order for going and book that babysitter. Keep a watchful eye out in these notes for the release of tickets as there is already a lot of expressed interest. This was a huge success last time so we are all looking forward to another great night.

Community Alert

The High Road/Ballyduff Community Alert group would like to say a huge thank you to all who attended their last meeting on Tuesday February 21st. It was great to see such huge crowds at the meeting. The group would like to take this opportunity to welcome Garda Dave Cahalane to our community. He will be based in Kilmacthomas Garda station.
Addressing the meeting on the night were Sgt. Brendan Roche, Crime Prevention officer, Peter Butler from Task, Garda Tom Daly and Garda Cahalane. Thank you to three local councillors John O Leary, Liam Brazil and Seanie Power who also attended the meeting. The €5 yearly text alert charge was taken up but dont worry if you forgot because it will also be taken up at the next meeting on Tuesday March 28th.

Adoration

Bishop Cullinan has expressed a wish to renew the practice of Eucharistic Adoration in our diocese and during the weekend masses on Saturday March 11th and Sunday March 12th there will be a short 5 minute presentation inviting us to spend an hour in the company of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament.

Lourdes Trip

The Ballyduff Lourdes committee would like to send two people on the Waterford and Lismore Pilgrimage to Lourdes which takes place from June 6th to June 11th. If you would like to be part of this or would like to nominate somebody please contact one of the people listed before March 12th,

The Dolmen Retirement Group

The Dolmen Retirement Group will hold their next meeting on Tuesday March 7th at 11am in The Holy Cross Lounge, Butlerstown. The guest speaker will be a nutrition consultant. A fantastic trip is planned for Tuesday March 14th to Altamont Gardens and Huntington Castle. New members are always welcome to join this group.

Bundle of Joy.

We send our heartiest congratulations to Stephen and Marie Flynn on the birth of their beautiful baby son Cian Oliver recently. I met Cians very proud first time grandmother Maureen Flynn, Adamstown the other evening and she told me the happy news of this wonderful new addition to the family. I don’t think Stephen and Marie will ever be short of a babysitter anyway with Maureen and Aunty Claire and Uncle Gary forming a queue. Of course they are also very lucky to have great granny Bridie on hand to give them lots of advice and help having reared a fine family of her own. We wish this happy little family every happiness in the world and look forward to meeting Cian on one of his visits to Kilmeaden.

Coffee Morning

Fancy a nice hot cuppa, a delicious scone and a friendly chat? If so drop into O Donnachas in Kilmeaden on Monday March 20th anytime between 10am and 12 noon. As well as having a very enjoyable morning you will also be helping the Waterford/Kilkenny branch of the Down Syndrome Group. There will also be a raffle on the day for some lovely prizes. Call up a few friends and arrange to meet on Monday March 20th, I can guarantee you will enjoy it.

Booking Of Masses

If you would like to book an anniversary mass for a loved one for the months of April, May or June then bookings will be taken after both weekend masses this weekend March 18th and 19th. If you have a First anniversary mass or Months Mind during these months then these are given preference over the dates so please contact Linda Spillane 087-9838392 this week before the bookings so that you can get the date you wish for.

First Penance

I was delighted to attend 2nd class’s First Penance last Tuesday night. The children did a fantastic job and you could hear all their special prayers really clearly. They also sang some beautiful hymns which really enhanced the ceremony. Each child had drawn a picture depicting a particular sin which they were sorry for. They presented their picture to Fr.O Byrne who gave them Gods forgiveness and placed their picture in “the sin bin”. Well done to all the boys and girls and to their teacher Mrs.Brennan.
The children will continue with their First Communion preparation with the next of their special “Do This In Memory” masses on Sunday March 19th. These are special masses where the children take part in the mass and share the experience with their parish community. A reminder to the children to remember their special prayer candle which is lit for the duration of the mass.

Spring Stations.

The Spring station masses will finish this week with the station mass for Newtown, Cullinagh and Gortaclode on Tuesday March 14th at 8pm in the home of Helen and Paul Millea.
Fr. O Byrne would like to say a special thanks to all those who hosted the station masses and all those who attended them. A big thank you also to all those who handed in their station donation.

Drama Easter Camp

Ballyduff Youth Drama will host a 4 day theatre workshop in Ballyduff Community Centre from Tuesday April 18th to Friday April 21st running from 10am to 2pm daily. This is aimed at children aged 9 to 12 years. If you would like any more information about cost etc or would like to book your place please contact Ciara on 087- 6665305.

Presentation Of Cheques.

Following their great success with this years production of “The Real McCoy” the Dawn Players Drama Group showed their appreciation to Ballyduff N.S Parents Council and Ballyduff Community Centre Committee for all the help they gave them for the duration of the play with ticket selling, raffles etc by presenting each group with a cheque for €2150. Both groups are absolutely delighted and are very grateful to Dawn Players for sharing their profits with them.

Fashion Show.

Ballyduffs Belles and Beaus Fashion Show is getting very close now and the excitement is building. I can tell you that the booking of tickets has opened so please book early as there is a lot of interest. The show will run on Saturday April 1st and thats no April Fools joke. Beginning at 8pm you will be treated to a night of glamour and beauty. All the models will be local from all different walks of life and will display outfits from shops and boutiques from Waterford city and Dungarvan. For just €15 you will receive a glass of wine, a goody bag and will be entered into the door prize raffle. There will also be a prize for the Best dressed lady on the night. Tickets are now on sale for this Over 18’s event and can be booked by contacting Marie on 089-4348844.

Lourdes Trip.

Our local Lourdes committee are once again hoping to send two people on the Waterford and Lismore Pilgrimage to Lourdes which will run from June 6th to June 11th. If you would like to nominate someone to go please contact one of the following by March 12th, Noel O Sullivan (384443), Donal Daly (384134), John O Leary (384550) or Eugene Power (384164).

Station Masses.

The Spring station masses are already coming to an end and so the final two are as follows, the mass for Adamstown, Ballyduff East and Matthews Cross will be held on Friday March 10th at 8pm in the home of Mary and Jimmy Power and on Tuesday March 14th the mass for Newtown, Cullinagh and Gortaclode will be in the home of Helen and Paul Millea at 8pm.

Retirement Group.

The Dolmen Retirement Group will hold their next meeting on Tuesday March 7th at 11am in The Holy Cross Lounge, Butlerstown. The guest speaker on the day will be a nutrition consultant.
A trip to Altamont Gardens and Huntington Castle has also been arranged for Tuesday March 14th.
The group always welcome new members.

Eucharistic Talk
At both masses this weekend on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th there will be a short 5 minute presentation explaining the reasons for and what a blessing we receive from the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. This is an initiative of Bishop Cullinan to renew eucharistic adoration in our diocese. It is a very worthwhile devotion for all who take part.

Tidy Towns

Our local Tidy Towns committee will host their next meeting on Wednesday March 8th at 7.30pm in Ballyduff Community Centre. New members are always welcome to join this group so please come along and help keep your community looking beautiful.

GAA Academy.

Ballyduff GAA academy is now back in full swing with many blitz competitions taking place. The academy is aimed at all boys and girls aged 4 to 10 years who are interested in hurling and football. All of the coaches involved have all been fully trained and Garda vetted. New members are always welcomed so if you would like to register your child or find out more please contact Brian 087-2486423 or Rory 086-6012394.
An order is currently being placed for club gear and helmets for both children and adults so if you would like to order an item then please contact Brian on 087-2486423.
If there are any parents out there who would like to get involved with the Nursery U6 group their help would be gladly appreciated. Full training would be provided.

GAA Lotto
The numbers drawn in the latest GAA lotto draw were 8,9,15 and 18. There was no jackpot winner and the three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Senan Cooke, Ollie Fleming and Ballyduff GAA club. The next draw will take place on March 12th and will have a fantastic jackpot of €6,200 so all you have to is choose those numbers. Tickets will be on sale all day on Saturday March 11th outside Centra in Kilmeaden so get yours early.

Ballyduff Youth Drama.

Ballyduff Youth drama are calling all performers aged 9 to 12 years to a 4 day theatre workshop in Ballyduff Community centre running from Tuesday April 18th to Friday April 21st from 10am to 2pm daily. For further information please contact Ciara on 087-6665305.

Our Sympathy

We extend our deepest sympathy to Mary Power, Ballyduff West on the recent death of her beloved mother, Mrs. Ellen(Nellie) Dwan nee Doonican. Requiem mass was celebrated in Ballybricken church and Nellie was then brought to her final resting place in St.Marys cemetery, Ballygunner. We pray that she now rests in peace and that her family will find comfort in the wonderful memories she left them.

Coffee Morning.

World Down Syndrome Day will take place on March 21st but to kick things off The Waterford and South Kilkenny group will host a coffee morning on Monday March 20th from 10am to 12 noon in O Donnachas, Kilmeaden. A raffle will also be held with some great prizes. What a great way to start off the week, a lovely warm cuppa, one of O Donnachas famous scones and a chat. Spread the word to all your family and friends and help raise funds for this very worthwhile cause. See you there for a chat.

Soccer Sisters Camp.

Ballyduff AFC are delighted to have been chosen as a host club for the FAI Soccer Sisters Easter Camp. The camp will run on Thursday April 20th and Friday April 21st for girls aged 7 to 12 years. Camp is open to girls in the club and from all the surrounding areas. To book a place you need to log onto www.soccersisters.ie

GAA Lotto.

The numbers drawn in the most recent lotto draw were 18, 22, 23 and 28. There was no winner of the jackpot and the three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Valarie Carroll, Jack Kelly and Eileen O Carroll. The next draw will take place on Sunday February 26th and will have a staggering jackpot of €6050 on offer. Tickets cost just €2 or 3 for €5 and will be on sale outside Centra in Kilmeaden all day on Saturday February 25th.

80 Years Young!

I would like to send heartiest birthday wishes to a very dear friend of mine and yours Mr.Fintan Kiely who turned 80 years young recently. Fintan who is now a resident of Greenhill Nursing Home partied the day away with friends and family and I must say he was looking extremely well. His daughter Collette and grandson Jack made sure he had a brilliant day. I’m sure I speak for all his many friends in Ballyduff and Kilmeaden when I say we wish him continued good health and many more happy birthdays. Sorry about the Deise win over Kilkenny Fintan but sure you can’t have it all.

Spring Stations.

The Spring station masses are continuing this week. The mass for Stonehouse, Lacka Road and Whelansbridge will take place on Tuesday February 21st at 8pm in the home of Una and Brendan Counihan. The mass for Ardeenlone, Ballygarron, Lisahane and Shanbally will take place on Wednesday February 22nd at 7.30pm in Ballyduff church. On Thursday February 23rd it will be the turn of Blacknock, Powersknock and Carrigadustra at 7.30pm in Ballyduff church. On Friday February 24th the mass for Carrigphilip, Knockaderry and Carriganure Upper will be held in the home of Marie and John Cummins at 8pm. Tuesday February 28th will be the turn of Amberhill and Raheen in Ballyduff church at 7.30pm.

Community Alert.

The next meeting of the local community alert group will take place on Tuesday February 21st at 8pm in Ballyduff Community Centre. Some of the speakers on the night will be crime prevention officer Sgt. Brendan Roche, Margaret Quinn from Muintir na Tire, Peter Butler from Task and some local Gardai. The €5 annual fee for the text alert scheme is now due and will be taken up at the meeting.
It is vitally important that as many people as possible attend these meetings and please encourage your friends and neighbours to come too. The group ask nothing of you in return but a committment to help making our area safe and crime free.

Bridge News.

The Ballyduff/Portlaw bridge group played their club championships on Monday February 13th and the results were as follows:
1st Session: Peggy Murphy and Margaret Power
2nd Session: Aileen Stephenson and Anne Kennedy.

Overall Result
1st: Nano Fitzgerald and Geraldine McMahon
2nd: Joan Hartery and Anne Cox.
3rd: Mary Shanahan and Fr. Michael O Byrne.
4th: Sean Hennessy and Kate Hayes.
5th: Anne Marie Brown and Mary Prendergast.

Award Shortlist.

Congratulations to all the staff and volunteers at Waterford Suir Valley Railway in Kilmeaden who have been nominated in the Waterford Chamber Business Awards. They have been shortlisted in the Tourism, Leisure and Hospitality section. This is a just recognition for all their hard work and committment and we wish them the very best of luck on March 3rd in Faithlegg House Hotel when the winners will be announced at a presentation dinner.

Golden Couple.

I want to take this opportunity to wish good friends of mine Peggy and Leonard O Neill in Ballybeg a very happy Golden wedding anniversary which occured on Valentines day. This loved up couple celebrated in style with their family and friends in The Woodlands Hotel and danced away to their favourite DJ John O Shea. We wish this happy couple many more years of wedded bliss and if we can be half as happy as them we’ll be doing ok.

Book Return

A reminder to you that after its sellout performance, the Kilmeaden Co Op centenary book, “Milking 100 years of Memories” is now available again at a cost of €15. You can purchase your copy in the Countrylife store in Kilmeaden.

Recent Death.

We send our sympathies to Noel O Sullivan, Matthews Cross on the recent death of his brother in law Tom Walsh, Georges Street, Portlaw. My uncle Tom was a gentleman true to the core. He was a fantastic husband to my aunty Kathleen and adored his two daughters Marian and Lisa who in return worshipped him. He was thrilled to welcome three grandchildren into his life and followed their lives and hobbies with great interest. A kind and gentle man he bore his illness with great strength and courage and the high esteem in which he was held was evident in the huge crowds who attended his removal and funeral mass. A great neighbour and friend to many he was always willing to give a helping hand. We pray that Tom is now enjoying a nice cup of tea in a comfy chair and that God will reward him for his commitment and dedication to both his family and his faith. May the soil of Portlaw rest gently on him and may his sweet soul rest in peace.

Dinner Dance.

Unfortunately I was unable to attend the recent GAA dinner dance but I did however send several spies to report back to me. Anyone I have met who was there have given rave reviews. A great night was had I hear back and true to form The Granville served up a delicious meal. The announcement of Ollie Harris as an honourary president got a great reaction. This is a just reward to a man who has given a lifetime service and dedication to the club. My brother Neil was presented with the piece of crystal the club won for Club of the Year. I believe I missed a great speech from Neil but I can imagine it as I know what passion and committment he gives to whatever he gets involved with. After the presentation of medals to the teams everyone danced the night away to Tequila Sunrise and I hear there were some fantastic movers and shakers on the floor. Well done to everyone who had any part in organising the event and we hope there wasn’t too many sick heads or sore feet!!

Ballyduff Youth Drama.

The time has come for Ballyduff Youth Drama to raise the curtain on their production of Grease. The show will run in Ballyduff Community Centre on Friday 17^th of February and Saturday 18^th of February at 8pm and on Sunday 19^th at 3.30pm. Tickets cost just €10 and are available by calling or texting Helen on 087- 6493657. We wish all the cast and crew the very best and hope all the audiences will end up “hopelessly devoted”.

Spring Stations

It is so hard to believe that it is already time to begin the Spring stations masses. The first of these masses will take place on Tuesday February 14^th in the home of Ann and Luke Fitzgerald for the areas of Ross, Kildermody, Carriganure Lower and Kilmagemogue at 8pm.

Community Alert

Our local community alert group will hold their next meeting on Tuesday February 21^st in Ballyduff Community Centre at 8pm. Speakers on the night will be crime prevention officer Sgt. Brendan Roche, Margaret Quinn from Muintir na Tire and Peter Butler from Task. Local Gardai will also be present. The €5 year text alert fee is now due and is payable at the meeting.

This group have been doing brilliant work in our area and it would be great to see more people attending these meetings. It is vitally important that we all do all we can to prevent crime in our area. You are asked for nothing from this group just a committment to keeping your area a safe and crime free.

GAA Academy

I am delighted to hear that the very popular GAA academy training has started up again. Meeting on Saturday mornings at 10.30am on the astro turf pitch at the grounds of Ballyduff AFC. This group is aimed at boys and girls aged 4 to 10 inclusive and teaches them about having fun and developing skills. During the session football and hurling is covered so you are asked to bring your mouthguard and hurleys and helmets. In the coming weeks blitz competitions will be arranged for U7 and U8 in both codes. The U9’s will have league games coming up in April.

Fashion Show.

 The Belles and Beaus fashion show will return this year due to popular demand. First held here in 2014 it was an outstanding success so mark April 1^st in your diary and this is no April Fools joke. Models are being put through their struts and poses as we speak and fashion stores are begging to be included so this should be a brilliant night. Watch this space and I will bring you all the details hot off the press in the coming weeks.

Book Return

Any of you who managed to get your hands on the fantastic book about the Kilmeaden Co op and creamery will agree that it was a brilliant read and an excellently put together book. The photos and memories in the book are outstanding. The book has proved so popular that all copies sold out. A waiting list has been in place and I received a phone call from the great Martin Kennedy to tell me that the book is now available again at Countrylife in Kilmeaden. Due to extra printing costs the book now retails at €15 and I can tell you that is worth every penny. If you had put your name on the waiting list or would like a copy please get along to Countrylife in Kilmeaden as soon as you can.

Bridge News.

The Ballyduff/Portlaw bridge group played their latest game on Monday January 30th and the results were as follows:

1st: Patsy Roche and Kathleen Collins.
2nd: Mary Prendergast and Margaret Power.
3rd: Geraldine McMahon and Breda O Donnell.
4th: Anne Cox and Peggy Murphy.

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest GAA lotto draw were 5, 9, 12 and 23 but there was no winner of the jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Richard Cullinane, Fergus Dunne and Joyce Cullinane. The next draw will take place on February 12th and will have a jackpot of €5900. Tickets are just €2 or 3 for €5 and are available from committee members and will be on sale outside Centra on Saturday February 11th. What a fantastic jackpot up for grabs and all you have to do is choose those four lucky numbers!

A True Lady.

Our parish is most definetly a much poorer place following the death of Cait Curry from Ballyduff. A gentle, private, kind and courageous lady she went about her business quietly and drew great strength and comfort from her faith, a faith which was of utmost importance to her. She was indeed a fantastic parishioner and worked very hard volunteering to help with many community projects and the day to day running of a parish. She dedicated many years of her life to being the very popular secretary in our local national school. We shall all miss her smiling face, her encouraging word, her contagious optimisim. We extend our deepest sympathy to her husband Arthur, her son Arthur Jnr and his wife Karen, her daughter Elizabeth and her beloved grandchildren Jordan, Emily and Ali and also to all her extended family and her many many friends. We pray that her sweet gentle soul is now at rest and that the Lord will reward her for all her hard work and dedication.

Dawn Players

The curtain has now come down on Dawn Players production of “The Real McCoy”. Booked out shows and standing ovations were on the cards for the four nights and audiences were treated to an hilarious comedy. Each actor and actress excelled in their roles and when I say I laughed from start to finish I am not exaggerating. Congratulations to all the cast and crew on another fantastic production and thank you for brightening up our January.

Grandparents Honoured.

The pupils of Ballyduff N.S extended a lovely invitation to their grandparents on Wednesday February 1st when they invited them to a special mass in their honour in Ballyduff church and then back to their school hall for some tea and biscuits. The grandparents were shown the childrens classrooms and some lovely artwork the children had done especially for the occasion. It really was a lovely morning and the children loved showing their grandparents around.

Panto Time.

Our friends in Portlaw Musical Society are getting ready to lift the curtain on this years panto, Alibaba and the 40 Thieves. Running from Thursday February 9th to Sunday February12th this is always a great nights entertainment. Booking of tickets can be done by contacting 086-0519210. Of course flown in at great expense from Kilmeaden we have sent our own brother and sister duo of Darren and Rachael Butler, Gortaclode to take on the parts of Alibaba and Princess Mediora and of course the parents and pupils of Ballyduff N.S will recognise thief no.39 as staff member Stephaine McGuire. Go along and support this long running group who always give audiences a night to remember.

Grease Time.

The T-Birds and Pink Ladies are busy getting ready for Ballyduff Youth Dramas production of Grease which will take place in Ballyduff Community Centre on Friday February 17th and Saturday February 18th at 8pm and on Sunday February 19th at 3.30pm. Tickets cost just €10 and are available by phoning or texting Helen on 087-6493657. Treat yourself to a great night of music and song.

Springtime.

You would be forgiven the past few nights for thinking it was indeed Winter as we listened to wind howling and rain lashing but the arrival of Spring brings hope of new growth and new birth. I have my first two daffodils dancing at the bottom of the garden and hear tales of calves etc entering the world. I listened to Shane Fitzgerald speak on radio about the arrival of healthy triplet calves a few weeks back on the family farm on the High Road. These are all lovely little signs that Spring is on the way with nice long bright evenings and the promise of new beginnings.

The sun is so warm and nice
There is cheer everywhere cause
Spring has sprung
one more time and Winter
so cold is gone.
The robins have returned
and the hibiscus and the roses
bloom again.
To my delight, now I see
butterflies dance.

Community Centre.

The AGM of the Ballyduff Community Centre will take place on Tuesday January 31st at 7pm in the community centre. Financial reports for 2015 and a progress report for 2016 will be available at the meeting. All are welcome to attend this meeting.

Dinner Dance.

A reminder that all roads will lead to The Granville Hotel on Saturday February 4th for a celebratory dinner dance hosted by Club of the Year Ballyduff Lower GAA Club. Kicking off at 7.30pm you will be treated to a delicious 4 course meal followed by the presentation of medals and then dance the night away to the sounds of Tequila Sunrise. Tickets cost just €35 and are available from any committee member or by contacting 087-2353295. You do not have to be a member of the club to attend the dinner dance the only criteria needed is that you know how to enjoy yourself.

Bridge News.

The results of the latest bridge game played on Monday January 23rd were as follows:
1st: Kate Hayes and Sean Hennessy.
2nd: Nano Fitzgerald and Geraldine McMahon.
3rd: Breda Cowman and Mary Kennedy.
4th: Mary and Brenda Cummins.

Kilmeadens Slimspiration

Kilmeadens 2017 Slimspiration is up and going and recording great results. The group meet each Monday night in Ballyduff Community Centre from 7pm to 8pm for a weekly confidential weigh in, motivational speakers and advice from fitness and nutrition experts. Come along any Monday night, it is never to late to start.

Next Meeting

A date for your diary is Tuesday February 21st when the High Road/Ballyduff community alert group will hold their next meeting at 8pm in the community centre. Guest speakers on the night will be Crime prevention officer Sgt. Brendan Roche, Margaret Quinn from Muintir na Tire and Peter Butler from Task. The annual €5 text alert charge will also be collected at the meeting. Please spread the news of this meeting as it is important to have as many people as possible involved in a group of this importance.

Birthday Boy.

We send warmest birthday wishes to Frankie McGrath from Ballygarron who recently celebrated his 80th birthday. I know what you are thinking 80 are you joking us but yes I have it on good authority that he was indeed 80. I think his youthful appearance is a mixture of oil of ulay and the love of a good woman! I know Frankie celebrated his special day in style with family and friends and a dance or two were also on the menu. We wish Frankie continued good health and happiness.

Recent Death.

We extend our deepest sympathy to John Carroll, Johnstown on the recent death of his father Michael Carroll, Bishopscourt, Ballygunner and Havenwood Retirement Village. Michaels funeral mass was held in St. Marys Church, Ballygunner and he was buried in the adjoining cemetery. We pray that he may rest in peace and that his family will draw comfort from the wonderful memories he left them.

Grease Time

Ballyduff Youth Drama are very busy at the moment rehearsing for their production of Grease which will take place in Ballyduff Community Centre on Friday February 17th and Saturday February 18th at 8pm and Sunday February 19th at 3.30pm. Tickets are now on sale at €10 and can be booked by calling or texting Helen on 087-6493657.The T Birds and Pink Ladies promise you a great show.
In order to raise some funds to cover their cost the group will be at Centra on Friday February 3rd selling tickets for a raffle where you could be the lucky winner of one of their beautiful Valentine hampers.